In vitro antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural

Exploring the bioactive potential of algae residue extract via subcritical water extraction: Insights into chemical composition and biological activity

Gelidium sesquipedale is valued in the Spanish agar industry, but its production generates substantial waste, often discarded despite its nutritional and bioactive content. Subcritical water extraction (SWE) at 175 °C and 50 bar for 130 min was performed on this waste after agar extraction, comparing it to conventional ethanol extraction. The SWE extract exhibited superior nutritional profile, including proteins (170.6 ± 1.0 mg/gfreeze-dried-extract), essential amino acids (18.1%), carbohydrates (148.1 ± 0.3 mg/gfreeze-dried-extract), total phenolic content (57 ± 7 mg-EqGA/gfreeze-dried-extract), and also containing Maillard reaction compounds, such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, furfural, 2-furanmethanol, 1-(2-furanyl)-ethanone, and 5-methyl-2-furfural, influencing color, aroma and flavor. This extract showed better antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties than the conventional extract, and higher xanthine oxidase, tyrosinase, and acetylcholinesterase inhibition activities. Toxicological assessment on human cells indicated the safety of the SWE extract. Therefore, SWE technology offers a promising method to valorize G. sesquipedale residue, yielding a bioactive and nutrient-rich extract suitable for food and nutraceutical applications.

The antisickling agent, 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural: Other potential pharmacological applications

For the last two decades, the aromatic aldehyde 5-hydroxymethyl-furfural (5-HMF) has been the subject of several investigations for its pharmacologic potential. In 2004, the Safo group reported that 5-HMF has potent antisickling activity by targeting and ameliorating the primary pathophysiology of hypoxia-induced sickling of erythrocytes (red blood cells [RBC]). Following the encouraging outcome of the preclinical and phase I/II clinical studies of 5-HMF for the treatment of sickle cell disease (SCD), there have been multiple studies suggesting 5-HMF has several other biological or pharmacologic activities, including anti-allergic, antioxidant, anti-hypoxic, anti-ischemic, cognitive improvement, anti-tyrosinase, anti-proliferation, cytoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities. The wide range of its effects makes 5-HMF a potential candidate for treating a variety of diseases including cognitive disorders, gout, allergic disorders, anemia, hypoxia, cancers, ischemia, hemorrhagic shock, liver fibrosis, and oxidative injury. Several of these therapeutic claims are currently under investigation and, while promising, vary in terms of the strength of their evidence. This review presents the research regarding the therapeutic potential of 5-HMF in addition to its sources, physicochemical properties, safety, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) profiles.

Green Method Comparison and Optimization of Anthocyanin Recovery from "Sangiovese" Grape Pomace: A Critical Evaluation of the Design of Experiments Approach

Grape pomace is the main by-product obtained from wine production that is still enriched in bioactive compounds. Within a framework of waste/by-product reuse through a sustainable approach, various green methods were utilized in this work to recover anthocyanins from the pomace resulting from "Sangiovese" grape vinification. Ultrasound- and Microwave-Assisted Extractions (UAE and MAE) were coupled with the use of green solvents, such as acidified water, an ethanol/water mixture, and Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NaDES), and their efficacy was compared with that of a conventional method based on a methanol/acidified water mixture. The Total Anthocyanin Index ranged from 36.9 to 75.2 mg/g DW for UAE, and from 54.4 to 99.6 mg/g DW for MAE, while resulting in 47.1 mg/g DW for conventional extraction. A Design of Experiments (DoE) approach was applied to MAE, the most efficient technique. Temperature, time, and the solid-to-liquid ratio were set as X variables, while malvidin-3-O-glucoside content and antioxidant activity were used as response variables, measured by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode Array Detection (HPLC-DAD) and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, respectively. The correlation between temperature and time and the antioxidant activity of the extract was positive, while it was found to be negative when considering malvidin-3-O-glucoside concentration as a response variable. Thus, the optimal conditions in temperature, time and solid-to-liquid ratio were different depending on the chosen variable. The results underline the importance of selecting an accurate response when using the response surface methodology approach.

Phytochemicals, antioxidant ability and in vitro anthelmintic activity of crude extracts from Vitexnegundo leaves against Haemonchus contortus

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro anthelmintic effect of crude aqueous, methanol, ethanol, hydro alcohol and acetone extracts of Vitex negundo leaves against Haemonchus contortus eggs and larvae. Phytochemical analysis to identify the number of compounds in extracts was done by chemical tests and gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrophotometer detector (GC-MS). First off all the effectiveness of dried plant materials was evaluated on larval development by mixing powdered material (no nano particles) to faecal cultures from donor sheep. Adding powder to the faecal culture resulted into 100% inhibition in larval development at 200 and 300 mg/g of faeces. The anthelmintic activity was assessed using the egg hatch assay (EHA) and the larval mortality assay (LMA). Comparison of mean inhibition percentage of egg embryonation, mean inhibition percentage of egg hatching and mean percentage of larval mortality at different concentrations with control was performed by one-way ANOVA. The means were compared for statistical significance using DMRT at P < 0.05. For both the assays, 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) and lethal concentration (LC50) were calculated by probit analysis. Chemical test revealed presence of high concentration of saponin and flavoinoids and moderate concentration of total phenols in leaves. The antioxidant activity (radical scavenging activity, RSA %) measured was 35.47%. On GC-MS, the methanolic leaves extract revealed 30 phyto-compounds. On EHA, there was marked effect on inhibition of egg hatching by aqueous, hydro alcohol and acetone extracts. On LMA all the five extracts showed excellent larvicidal activity. V. negundo leaves methanol extract mediated silver nanoparticles were found very effective at much lower concentrations as compared to crude methanol extract. The results indicated that the V. negundo leaves crude extracts possessed excellent in vitro ovicidal and larvicidal properties against H. contortus which needs more investigation, especially in vivo trials for the control of parasite.

5-Hydroxymethylfurfural Ameliorates Allergic Inflammation in HMC-1 Cells by Inactivating NF-κB and MAPK Signaling Pathways

Allergic inflammation is the foundation of multiple allergic disorders, such as allergic rhinitis and asthma. Mast cells are effector cells that initiate inflammatory response. 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), a furfural compound, is the heat-processed product of various fruit, foods, drinks, as well as some Chinese herbal medicines. 5-HMF was previously reported to inhibit mast cell activation. Our study aimed to explore the functions of 5-HMF in both phorbol 12-mystate 13-acetate (PMA) plus calcium ionophore (A23187)-induced allergic inflammation in human mast cell line HMC-1 and ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma mouse models. HMC-1 cells were pretreated with 5-HMF and then stimulated by PMA+A23187. The cytotoxicity of 5-HMF on HMC-1 cells was evaluated by MTT assay. Histamine content in cell supernatants was measured by the o-phthaldialdehyde spectrofluorometric procedure. Intracellular calcium was determined using the fluorescent dye Fura-2AM. The production and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines were detected by ELISA and RT-qPCR. Caspase-1 colorimetric assay was employed to examine the enzymatic activity of caspase-1. Asthma mouse models were induced by OVA sensitization. The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and blood samples were collected for the detection of total and differential cell count as well as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), OVA-immunoglobulin E (OVA-IgE), OVA-immunoglobulin G1 (OVA-IgG1), and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. The left lung of mouse was dissected for histopathological examination by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The protein expression of pro-caspase-1 and the phosphorylation of NF-κB and MAPK pathway-associated molecules were assessed by Western blotting. Our findings revealed that 5-HMF efficiently suppressed the PMA+A23187-induced enhancement in histamine production and intracellular calcium in HMC-1 cells. Pro-inflammatory cytokine production and expression in HMC-1 cells were elevated after PMA plus A23187 stimulation, which, however, were inhibited by pretreatment of 5-HMF. Additionally, 5-HMF suppressed the activity of caspase-1 and the phosphorylation of NF-κB and MAPK-associated molecules including p65 NF-κB, p38 MAPK, ERK, and JNK in HMC-1 cells. In vivo experiments demonstrated that 5-HMF treatment reduced the lung/body weight index and total and differential (macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils) cell counts in BALF of asthmatic mice, but exerted no influence on serum AST and ALT levels. Besides, 5-HMF reduced serum OVA-IgE and OVA-IgG1 levels, mitigated lung inflammation, and inhibited the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways in asthma mouse models. 5-HMF mitigates allergic inflammation in asthma by inactivating caspase-1 and NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

Optimizing niger seed (Guizotia abyssinica) oil quality: A comprehensive analysis of infrared-heat induced changes in bioactive profile, physiochemical attributes, and oxidative stability

Infrared heating (IRH) at 140, 160, and 180°C for varying durations (5, 10, and 15 min) was employed for improving the niger (Guizotia abyssinica) seed oil (NSO) quality for diverse food applications. The study explored changes in phenolic profile, oxidative stability index (OSI), tocopherols, phytosterols, fatty acid profiles, and physicochemical attributes of NSO. Upon IRH at 180°C for 10 min, the oil yield, total phenolic, and flavonoid contents increased from 33.09% to 40.56%, 6.67 to 173.62 mg GAE/kg, and 24.76 to 120.64 mg QE/kg, respectively. The viscosity, chlorophylls, carotenoids, radical scavenging activity, OSI, caffeic, protocatechuic, vanillic, and syringic acids were highest upon IRH at 180°C for 15 min. The tocopherols and phytosterols initially augmented while decremented upon raising IRH conditions. The infrared spectra indicated no adverse impact of IRH on NSO quality. The appropriate IRH conditions can be considered for improving NSO quality and making it valuable for various edible products.

Glucosidase inhibition and compound identification of stingless bee honey and preserved fruits of Citrus japonica

Food preservation has many benefits, such as increasing shelf life, retaining nutritional values and biological activities. In the current study, total phenolic content (TCP), antioxidant and anti-glucosidase activities, and kinetic of glucose inhibition of stingless bee honey, honey mixed with fruits, and extracts of Citrus japonica were evaluated by measuring color of a reaction using a spectrophotometer. The result showed that high TPC was found in ethanol extract of C. japonica leaves and fruits (26.79 ± 6.94 and 12.79 ± 0.87 mg of gallic acid per g extract), while stingless bee honey revealed the highest antioxidant activity (1/EC50 = 0.2921) and honey mixed with fruits revealed the strongest anti-glucosidase activity (1/EC50 = 1.8181), significantly (P-value <0.05). Kinetic of glucosidase inhibition of honey were found as uncompetitive and mixed competitive inhibition, while the honey mixed with fruits showed mixed competitive inhibition. The FTIR and GC-MS analysis demonstrated the presence of several bioactive compounds. Very strong positive relationship between total phenolic content with GC-MS data was found (r = 0.926, P-value < 0.05). This knowledge confirmed that stingless bee honey and honey mixed with fruits had greater anti-diabatic potential in comparison with the extracts of C. japonica leaves and fruits.

Experimental and pharmacoinformatic approaches unveil the neuropharmacological and analgesic potential of chloroform fraction of Roktoshirinchi (Achyranthes ferruginea Roxb.)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Achyranthes ferruginea (A. ferruginea) Roxb. is a common plant used in traditional medicine in Asia and Africa. It has a variety of local names, including "Gulmanci" in Nigeria, "Dangar" in Pakistan, "Thola" in Ethiopia, and "Roktoshirinchi" in Bangladesh. It is edible and has several ethnomedical uses for a wide range of illnesses, including hysteria, dropsy, constipation, piles, boils, asthma, and shigellosis. However, the neuropharmacological and analgesic potential of A. ferruginea remains uninvestigated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To assess the neuropharmacological and analgesic potential of A. ferruginea through a multifaceted approach encompassing both experimental and computational models.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Methanol was used to extract the leaves of A. ferruginea. It was then fractionated with low to high polar solvents (n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and water) to get different fractions, including chloroform fraction (CLF). The study selected CLF at different doses and conducted advanced chemical element and proximate analyses, as well as phytochemical profiling using GC-MS. Toxicological studies were done at 300 μg per rat per day for 14 days. Cholinesterase inhibitory potential was checked using an in-vitro colorimetric assay. Acetic acid-induced writhing (AAWT) and formalin-induced licking tests (FILT) were used to assess anti-nociceptive effects. The forced swim test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), elevated plus maze (EPM), hole board test (HBT), and light and dark box test (LDB) were among the behavioral tests used to assess depression and anxiolytic activity. Network pharmacology-based analysis was performed on selected compounds using the search tool for interacting chemicals-5 (STITCH 5), Swiss target prediction tool, and search tool for the retrieval of interacting genes and proteins (STRING) database to link their role with genes involved in neurological disorders through gene ontology and reactome analysis.

RESULTS

Qualitative chemical element analysis revealed the presence of 15 elements, including Na, K, Ca, Mg, P, and Zn. The moisture content, ash value, and organic matter were found to be 11.12, 11.03, and 88.97%, respectively. GC-MS data revealed that the CLF possesses 25 phytoconstituents. Toxicological studies suggested the CLF has no effects on normal growth, hematological and biochemical parameters, or cellular organs after 14 days at 300 μg per rat. The CLF markedly reduced the activity of both acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase (IC50: 56.22 and 13.22 μg/mL, respectively). Promising dose-dependent analgesic activity (p < 0.05) was observed in chemically-induced pain models. The TST and FST showed a dose-dependent substantial reduction in immobility time due to the CLF. Treatment with CLF notably increased the number of open arm entries and time spent in the EPM test at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w. The CLF showed significant anxiolytic activity at 200 mg/kg b.w. in the HBT test, whereas a similar activity was observed at 400 mg/kg b.w. in the EPM test. A notable increase in the amount of time spent in the light compartment was observed in the LDB test by mice treated with CLF, suggesting an anxiolytic effect. A network pharmacology study demonstrated the relationship between the phytochemicals and a number of targets, such as PPARA, PPARG, CHRM1, and HTR2, which are connected to the shown bioactivities.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the safety of A. ferruginea and its efficacy in attenuating cholinesterase inhibitory activity, central and peripheral pain, anxiety, and depression, warranting further exploration of its therapeutic potential.

Towards a better understanding of light-glucose induced modifications on the structure and biological activity of formulated Nivolumab

In the last years, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have rapidly escalated as biopharmaceuticals into cancer treatments, mainly for their target specificity accompanied by less side effects than the traditional chemotherapy, and stimulation of reliable long-term anti-tumoral responses. They are potentially unstable macromolecules under shaking, temperature fluctuations, humidity, and indoor and outdoor light exposure, all stressors occurring throughout their production, transport, storage, handling, and administration steps. The chemical and physical modifications of mAbs can lead not only to the loss of their bioactivity, but also to the enhancement of their immunogenicity with increasing risk of severe hypersensitivity reactions in treated patients because of aggregation. The photostability of Nivolumab, the active principle of Opdivo®, has been here studied. The chemical modifications detected by LC-MS/MS after the light stressor showed Trp and Met mono and double oxidations as primary damage induced by light on this mAb. The oxidations were stronger when the mAb was diluted in sterile glucose solution where 5-HMF, a major heat glucose degradation product, acted as singlet oxygen producer under irradiation. However, no significant changes in the mAb conformation were found. On the contrary, formation of a significant extent of aggregates has been detected after shining high simulated sunlight doses. This again took place particularly when Nivolumab was diluted in sterile glucose, thus raising a direct correlation between the aggregation and the oxidative processes. Finally, the biological activity under light stress assessed by a blockade assay test demonstrated the maintenance of the PD-1 target recognition even under high light doses and in glucose solution, in line with the preservation of the secondary and tertiary structures of the mAb. Based on our results, as sterile glucose is mostly used for children's therapies, special warnings, and precautions for healthcare professionals should be included for their use to the pediatric population.

Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidative, and Moisturizing Effects of Oxyceros horridus Lour. Ethanol Extract in Human Keratinocytes via the p38 Signaling Pathway

Skin is the largest and outermost organ in the human body; it serves as a vital defense mechanism against various external threats. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain its health through protection against harmful substances and adequate moisture levels. This study investigates the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and moisturizing properties of Oxyceros horridus Lour. (Oh-EE) in human keratinocytes. Oh-EE demonstrates potent antioxidant activity and effectively protects against oxidative stress induced by external stimuli such as UVB radiation and H2O2. Additionally, it exhibits significant anti-inflammatory effects proven by its ability to downregulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, namely COX-2 and IL-6. The study also explores the involvement of the AP-1 pathway, highlighting the ability of Oh-EE to suppress the expression of p38 and its upstream regulator, MKK3/6, under UVB-induced conditions. Interestingly, Oh-EE can activate the AP-1 pathway in the absence of external triggers. Furthermore, Oh-EE enhances skin moisture by upregulating the expression of key genes involved in skin hydration, namely HAS3 and FLG. These findings underscore the potential of Oh-EE as a versatile ingredient in skincare formulations, providing a range of skin benefits. Further research is warranted to comprehensively understand the underlying mechanisms through which Oh-EE exerts its effects.

Glycation of tilapia protein hydrolysate decreases cellular antioxidant activity upon in vitro gastrointestinal digestion

Changes in structural characteristics and antioxidant activity of tilapia hydrolysate glycated with glucose, fructose, or xylose at 90 °C for 12 h, and following in vitro gastrointestinal (GI) digestion were investigated. Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) band between 1,800 and 1,400 cm-1 confirmed the structural modifications of hydrolysate under glycations. Glycation drastically increased ATBS · + and ONOO - scavenging activities (p < 0.05) as well as ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Xylose was the most effective sugar for glycation, yielding the highest chemical antioxidant activities (p < 0.05). However, glycated hydrolysates exhibited lower cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) on HepG2 cell when compared to hydrolysates. The extensive glycation of hydrolysates resulted in lower GI digestibility as confirmed by the FTIR spectra of C[bond, double bond]O, C-N, N-H, C-C, C-O, and C-H stretching vibrations. Glycation of tilapia hydrolysates only improved chemical antioxidant activities, but alleviated CAA, especially upon simulated GI digestion.

Phytochemical Content of Malus floribunda: In Vitro and Molecular Docking Studies

Malus floribunda Siebold ex Van Houtte is a plant planted for landscaping, and its sour and red fruits have been seen to be frequently used in the treatment of diabetes, making vinegar marmalade, and producing natural food dyes. Apart from these usage areas of this plant, it is aimed at determining the phytochemical content. For this purpose, plant parts (fruit, leaf, and branch) were examined. The antioxidant capacity (vitamins A, E, and C, lycopene, beta-carotene, total phenolic and flavonoid amounts, and DPPH radical scavenging effect), antimicrobial activity (agar well diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration-MIC), and GC-MS contents of plant parts were determined. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), spectrophotometers, and gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) methods were used in the study. It was determined that M. floribunda fruit is rich in lycopene, beta-carotene, and antioxidant vitamins and contains many biomolecules. In addition, it was concluded that the extracts of different parts of the plant have antimicrobial activity. This study has revealed the idea that this plant, whose phytochemical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial content has been determined, can be used as a bioactive substance equivalent to antibiotics in medicine, the food industry, and human nutrition. In addition, it is expected that the study will contribute to the plant literature. Molecular docking studies were performed to evaluate the binding interactions between the compound and human peroxiredoxin 5 and S. aureus. Both in vitro and in silico results indicated that synthesized extracts could act as potent antioxidant and antimicrobial agents.

Indian jujube a potential fruit tree to improve the livelihood

Indian Jujube, also known as Ber or Ziziphus Mauritiana Lam., is a fruit-bearing tree endemic to South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. The tree belongs to the buckthorn family and is known for its fruit, a tiny, round, or oblong-shaped drupe roughly the size of a cherry or a small plum. Indian Jujube has been growing for thousands of years. It is a popular fruit throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and South America. Despite the fruit's delicious flavour and health benefits, it is also known for its therapeutic value. Many studies have suggested that various components of ber trees, such as fruit, seed leaves, roots, and flowers, include bioactive substances that demonstrate the potential for antioxidant activity and have anticancer, antibacterial, and antidiabetic effects. Due to the crop's minimal management requirements, it may slow down climate change and the threat of extreme soil and weather conditions, such as drought resistance, strong winds, erosion, high salt, and floods. The main objectives of the current systematic review are to understand Ber's chemical compositions, health benefits, culinary uses, major nutraceutical features, and its function in fostering livelihoods and climatic tolerance.

Different RONS Generation in MTC-SK and NSCL Cells Lead to Varying Antitumoral Effects of Alpha-Ketoglutarate + 5-HMF

BACKGROUND

Carbonylated proteins (CPs) serve as specific indicators of increased reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) production in cancer cells, attributed to the dysregulated mitochondrial energy metabolism known as the Warburg effect. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of alpha-ketoglutarate (aKG), 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), and their combination as mitochondrial-targeting antioxidants in MTC-SK or NCI-H23 cancer cells.

METHODS

MTC-SK and NCI-H23 cells were cultured in the absence or presence of varying concentrations (0-500 µg/mL) of aKG, 5-HMF, and the combined aKG + 5-HMF solutions. After 0, 24, 48, and 72 h, mitochondrial activity, cancer cell membrane CP levels, cell growth, and caspase-3 activity were assessed in aliquots of MTC-SK and NCI-H23 cells.

RESULTS

The mitochondrial activity of MTC-SK cells exhibited a concentration- and time-dependent reduction upon treatment with aKG, 5-HMF, or the combined aKG + 5-HMF. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50%) for mitochondrial activity was achieved at 500 µg/mL aKG, 200 µg/mL 5-HMF, and 200 µg/mL aKG + 66.7 µg/mL 5-HMF after 72 h. In contrast, NCI-H23 cells showed a minimal reduction (10%) in mitochondrial activity even at the highest combined concentration of aKG + 5-HMF. The CP levels in MTC-SK cells were measured at 8.7 nmol/mg protein, while NCI-H23 cells exhibited CP levels of 1.4 nmol/mg protein. The combination of aKG + 5-HMF led to a decrease in CP levels specifically in MTC-SK cells. The correlation between mitochondrial activity and CP levels in the presence of different concentrations of combined aKG + 5-HMF in MTC-SK cells demonstrated a linear and concentration-dependent decline in CP levels and mitochondrial activity. Conversely, the effect was less pronounced in NCI-H23 cells. Cell growth of MTC-CK cells was reduced to 60% after 48 h and maintained at 50% after 72 h incubation when treated with 500 µg/mL aKG (IC50%). Addition of 500 µg/mL 5-HMF inhibited cell growth completely regardless of the incubation time. The IC50% for 5-HMF on MTC-CK cell growth was calculated at 375 µg/mL after 24 h incubation and 200 µg/mL 5-HMF after 72 h. MTC-SK cells treated with 500 µg/mL aKG + 167 µg/mL 5-HMF showed no cell growth. The calculated IC50% for the combined substances was 250 µg/mL aKG + 83.3 µg/mL 5-HMF (48 h incubation) and 200 µg/mL aKG + 66.7 µg/mL 5-HMF (72 h incubation). None of the tested concentrations of aKG, 5-HMF, or the combined solution had any effect on NCI-H23 cell growth at any incubation time. Caspase-3 activity increased to 21% in MTC-CK cells in the presence of 500 µg/mL aKG, while an increase to 59.6% was observed using 500 µg/mL 5-HMF. The combination of 500 µg/mL aKG + 167.7 µg/mL 5-HMF resulted in a caspase-3 activity of 55.2%. No caspase-3 activation was observed in NCI-H23 cells when treated with aKG, 5-HMF, or the combined solutions.

CONCLUSION

CPs may serve as potential markers for distinguishing between cancer cells regulated by RONS. The combination of aKG + 5-HMF showed induced cell death in high-RONS-generating cancer cells compared to low-RONS-generating cancer cells.

Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae-Assessing the influence of herbal processing methods and improved effects on functional dyspepsia

Background: The unique pharmaceutical methods for the processing of botanical drugs according to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) affect clinical syndrome differentiation and treatment. The objective of this study was to comprehensively elucidate the principles and mechanisms of an herbal processing method by investigating the alterations in the metabolites of Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae (AMR) processed by Aurantii Fructus Immaturus (AFI) decoction and to determine how these changes enhance the efficacy of aqueous extracts in treating functional dyspepsia (FD). Methods: A qualitative analysis of AMR before and after processing was conducted using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, and HPLC was employed for quantitative analysis. A predictive analysis was then conducted using a network analysis strategy to establish a botanical drug-metabolite-target-disease (BMTD) network and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, and the predictions were validated using an FD rat model. Results: A total of 127 metabolites were identified in the processed AMR (PAMR), and substantial changes were observed in 8 metabolites of PAMR after processing, as revealed by the quantitative analysis. The enhanced aqueous extracts of processed AMR (PAMR) demonstrate improved efficacy in treating FD, which indicates that this processing method enhances the anti-inflammatory properties and promotes gastric motility by modulating DRD2, SCF, and c-kit. However, this enhancement comes at the cost of attenuating the regulation of motilin (MTL), gastrin (GAS), acetylcholine (Ach), and acetylcholinesterase (AchE). Conclusion: Through this series of investigations, we aimed to unravel the factors influencing the efficacy of this herbal formulation in improving FD in clinical settings.

Phytochemical Profiles and Anticancer Effects of Calophyllum inophyllum L. Extract Relating to Reactive Oxygen Species Modulation on Patient-Derived Cells from Breast and Lung Cancers

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to cancer growth and metastasis. Using antioxidants to modulate cellular ROS levels is a promisingstrategy for cancer prevention and treatment. Calophyllum inophyllum L., or tamanu, is a medicinal plant renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties in traditional medicine systems. However, the anticancer effects of C. inophyllum extract on cellular ROS remain unexplored. This study represents the first report on such effects and provides the potential mechanisms underlying the anticancer properties of C. inophyllum extract. The branches of C. inophyllum were extracted, and the extract was comprehensively analyzed for phytochemical constituents, antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content, and total flavonoid content. Subsequently, the extract's potential anticancer properties were evaluated using patient-derived cells from breast and lung cancer. The results revealed that the C. inophyllum extract possesses notable antioxidant activity and demonstrated no cytotoxicity within the initial 24 h of treatment. However, after 72 h, it exhibited significant antiproliferative effects. Moreover, the extract exhibited inhibitory properties against migration and invasion at concentrations below the IC₅₀, which corresponded to the expression of related genes. Notably, these effects correlated with the reduction of intracellular ROS levels. Overall, our findings highlight the anticancer potential of C. inophyllum extract, emphasize its ability to modulate cellular ROS levels and target key molecular pathways involved in cancer progression. This study sheds light on the promising therapeutic implications of C. inophyllum extract as a novel agent for cancer treatment, which is safe for normal cells.

Rapid electrical impedance detection of sickle cell vaso-occlusion in microfluidic device

Sickle cell disease is characterized by painful vaso-occlusive crises, in which poorly deformable sickle cells play an important role in the complex vascular obstruction process. Existing techniques are mainly based on optical microscopy and video processing of sickle blood flow under normoxic condition, for measuring vaso-occlusion by a small fraction of dense sickle cells of intrinsic rigidity but not the vaso-occlusion by the rigid, sickled cells due to deoxygenation. Thus, these techniques are not suitable for rapid, point-of-care testing. Here, we integrate electrical impedance sensing and Polydimethylsiloxane-microvascular mimics with controlled oxygen level into a single microfluidic chip, for quantification of vaso-occlusion by rigid, sickled cells within 1 min. Electrical impedance measurements provided a label-free, real-time detection of different sickle cell flow behaviors, including steady flow, vaso-occlusion, and flow recovery in response to the deoxygenation-reoxygenation process that are validated by microscopic videos. Sensitivity of the real part and imaginary part of the impedance signals to the blood flow conditions in both natural sickle cell blood and simulants at four electrical frequencies (10, 50, 100, and 500 kHz) are compared. The results show that the sensitivity of the sensor in detection of vaso-occlusion decreases as electrical frequency increases, while the higher frequencies are preferable in measurement of steady flow behavior. Additional testing using sickle cell simulants, chemically crosslinked normal red blood cells, shows same high sensitivity in detection of vaso-occlusion as sickle cell vaso-occlusion under deoxygenation. This work enables point-of-care testing potentials in rapid, accurate detection of steady flow and sickle cell vaso-occlusion from microliter volume blood specimens. Quantification of sickle cell rheology in response to hypoxia, may provide useful indications for not only the kinetics of cell sickling, but also the altered hemodynamics as obseved at the microcirculatory level.

Selection of a Novel DNA Aptamer Specific for 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural Using Capture-SELEX

A capture systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (Capture-SELEX) was described to discover novel aptamers specific for 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), and a biosensor based on molecular beacon was constructed to detect 5-HMF. The ssDNA library was immobilized to streptavidin (SA) resin to select the specific aptamer. The selection progress was monitored using real-time quantitative PCR (Q-PCR), and the enriched library was sequenced by high-throughput sequencing (HTS). Candidate and mutant aptamers were selected and identified by Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC). The FAM-aptamer and BHQ1-cDNA were designed as the quenching biosensor to detect 5-HMF in milk matrix. After the 18th round selection, the Ct value decreased from 9.09 to 8.79, indicating that the library was enriched. The HTS results indicated that the total sequence numbers for 9th, 13th, 16th, and 18th were 417054, 407987, 307666, and 259867, but the number of sequences for the top 300 sequences was gradually increased from 9th to 18th, and the ClustalX2 analysis showed that there were four families with high homology rate. ITC results indicated that the K_d values of H1 and its mutants H1-8, H1-12, H1-14, and H1-21 were 2.5 μM, 1.8 μM, 1.2 μM, 6.5 μM, and 4.7 μM. The linear range of the quenching biosensor was from 0 μM to 75 μM, and it had a similar linear range in the 0.1% milk matrix. This is the first report to select a novel aptamer specific for 5-HMF and develop quenching biosensor for the rapid detection of 5-HMF in milk matrix.

Amitraz and Its Metabolites: Oxidative Stress-Mediated Cytotoxicity in HepG2 Cells and Study of Their Stability and Characterization in Honey

The population decrease of bees that has been observed in recent years due to the Varroa destructor parasite may endanger the production of bee-products whose demand is on the rise. To minimize the negative effects caused by this parasite, the pesticide amitraz is commonly used by beekeepers. Based on these, the objectives of this work are to determine the toxic effects caused by amitraz and its metabolites in HepG2 cells, as well as its determination in honey samples and the study of its stability with different heat treatments commonly used in the honey industry and its relationship with the amount of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) produced. Amitraz significantly decreased cell viability by MTT assay and total protein content (PC) assay, being more cytotoxic than its metabolites. Amitraz and its metabolites caused oxidative stress by Lipid Peroxidation (LPO) production and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation. Residues of amitraz and/or its metabolites were found in analyzed honey samples, with 2,4-Dimethylaniline (2,4-DMA) being the main metabolite confirmed by high-performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-QTOF HRMS). Amitraz and its metabolites resulted as unstable even at moderate heat treatments. Additionally, a positive correlation in terms of HMF concentration in samples and the severity of heat treatment was also observed. However, quantified amitraz and HMF were within the levels set in the regulation.

Chemical Profiling and Therapeutic Evaluation of Standardized Hydroalcoholic Extracts of Terminalia chebula Fruits Collected from Different Locations in Manipur against Colorectal Cancer

Terminalia chebula Retz. (Fam. Combretaceae), locally called Manahei, is a well-known medicinal plant that grows wildly in Manipur, a Northeastern state of India. It is used as a mild laxative, an anti-inflammatory agent, and a remedy for piles, colds, and ulcers by ethnic communities of the state. The hydroalcoholic extract obtained from four fruit samples of T. chebula collected from different locations in Manipur were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) for their chemical constituents and evaluated for their anticancer activity against the colon cancer cell HCT 116. GC-MS analysis results indicated significant variation in the composition and percentage of major compounds present in the extracts. 1,2,3-Benzenetriol was the most abundant chemical constituent present in all four extracts of T. chebula, ranging from 20.95 to 43.56%. 2-Cyclopenten-1-one, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and catechol were commonly present in all extracts. Two marker compounds, gallic acid and ellagic acid, were also quantified usingHPTLC in all four extracts of T. chebula. The highest content of gallic acid (22.44 ± 0.056 µg/mg of dried extract) was observed in TCH, and that of ellagic acidwas found in TYH (11.265 ± 0.089 µg/mg of dried extract). The IC50 value of TYH for the DPPH and ABTS assays (12.16 ± 0.42 and 7.80 ± 0.23 µg/mL) was found to be even lower than that of Trolox (18 ± 0.44 and 10.15 ± 0.24 µg/mL), indicating its strong antioxidant properties among the four extracts of T. chebula. The MTT assay determined the effect of T. chebula extracts on the viability of HCT 116 cells. TYH showed the highest activity with anIC50 value of 52.42 ± 0.87 µg/mL, while the lowest activity was observed in TCH (172.05 ± 2.0 µg/mL). The LDH assay confirmed the cytotoxic effect of TYH in HCT 116 cells. TYH was also found to induce caspase-dependent apoptosis in HCT 116 cells after 48 h of treatment. Our study provides insight into the diversity of T. chebula in Manipur and its potential activity against colon cancer.

Evaluation of Senna tora (L.) Roxb. leaves as source of bioactive molecules with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial potential

Senna tora (L.) Roxb. is an ethno-medicinal herb used by rural and tribal people of the Satpura region of Madhya Pradesh in India and the Phatthalung Province of Thailand for treating rheumatism, bronchitis, ringworm, itches, leprosy, dyspepsia, liver disorders and heart disorders. It is also used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. This study was conducted to investigate the potential of Senna tora (L.) Roxb. as a source of drug candidates against oxidants, inflammation, and bacterial infection. Preliminary phytochemical screening (PPS) and GC-MS were performed to identify the phytochemicals in the ethyl acetate extract of Senna tora (L.) Roxb. leaves (EAESTL). The in vitro antioxidant activity was assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)- and H₂O₂-scavenging tests; the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was determined by bovine serum albumin (BSA) denaturation and red blood cell (RBC) hemolysis inhibition; and the antibacterial activity was evaluated by agar-well diffusion methods. Cytotoxicity was estimated by Artemia salina larvae lethality, while acute toxicity was evaluated by oral delivery of the extract to mice. In silico antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities were predicted by the Prediction of Activity Spectra for Substances (PASS) program. The pharmacokinetics related to ADME and toxicity tests were determined by the admetSAR2 and ADMETlab2 web servers, and drug-able properties were assessed by the SwissADME server. GC-MS detected fifty-nine phytochemicals that support the types of compounds (phenols, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, steroids, alkaloids, glycosides and reducing sugar) identified by phytochemical screening. EAESTL exhibited dose-dependent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities without any adverse effects or fluctuations in body weight. The PASS program predicted that the identified phytochemicals have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities. Among 51 phytochemicals, 16 showed good ADME, and 8 fulfilled drug-able properties without toxicity. Altogether, four phytochemicals, viz., benzyl alcohol, 3-(hydroxy-phenyl-methyl)-2,3-dimethyl-octan-4-one, phenylethyl alcohol and 2,6,6-trimethylbicyclo [3.1.1] heptane-3-ol, showed good pharmacokinetics and drug-able properties without toxicity, along with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities. The obtained results suggest that Senna tora (L.) Roxb. leaves contain bioactive phytochemicals that have the potential to fight against oxidants, inflammation, and bacterial infection as potential drug candidates.

Antimalarial efficacy and toxicological assessment of medicinal plant ingredients of Prabchompoothaweep remedy as a candidate for antimalarial drug development

BACKGROUND

Drug resistance exists in almost all antimalarial drugs currently in use, leading to an urgent need to identify new antimalarial drugs. Medicinal plant use is an alternative approach to antimalarial chemotherapy. This study aimed to explore potent medicinal plants from Prabchompoothaweep remedy for antimalarial drug development.

METHODS

Forty-eight crude extracts from Prabchompoothaweep remedy and its 23 plants ingredients were investigated in vitro for antimalarial properties using Plasmodium lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) enzyme against Plasmodium falciparum K1 strain and toxicity effects were evaluated in Vero cells. The plant with promising antimalarial activity was further investigated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify phytochemicals. Antimalarial activity in mice was evaluated using a four-day suppressive test against Plasmodium berghei ANKA at dose of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg body weight, and acute toxicity was analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 48 crude extracts, 13 (27.08%) showed high antimalarial activity against the K1 strain of P. falciparum (IC₅₀ <  10 μg/ml) and 9 extracts (18.75%) were moderately active (IC₅₀ = 11-50 μg/ml). Additionally, the ethanolic extract of Prabchompoothaweep remedy showed moderate antimalarial activity against the K1 strain of P. falciparum (IC₅₀ = 14.13 μg/ml). Based on in vitro antimalarial and toxicity results, antimalarial activity of the aqueous fruit extract of Terminalia arjuna (IC₅₀ = 4.05 μg/ml and CC₅₀ = 219.6 μg/ml) was further studied in mice. GC-MS analysis of T. arjuna extract identified 22 compounds. The most abundant compounds were pyrogallol, gallic acid, shikimic acid, oleamide, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, 1,1-diethoxy-ethane, quinic acid, and furfural. Analysis of the four-day suppressive test indicated that T. arjuna extract at dose of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg body weight significantly suppressed the Plasmodium parasites by 28.33, 45.77, and 67.95%, respectively. In the acute toxicity study, T. arjuna extract was non-toxic at 2000 mg/kg body weight.

CONCLUSIONS

The aqueous fruit extract of T. arjuna exerts antimalarial activity against Plasmodium parasites found in humans (P. falciparum K1) and mice (P. berghei ANKA). Acute toxicity studies showed that T. arjuna extract did not show any lethality or adverse effects up to a dose of 2000 mg/kg.

Synergic Effect of Honey with Other Natural Agents in Developing Efficient Wound Dressings

Honey has been used for therapeutic and nutritional purposes since ancient times. It was considered one of the essential medical assets in wound healing. According to research, honeybees have significant antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and wound-healing properties. Lately, scientific researchers have focused on apitherapy, using bee products to protect and strengthen the immune system. Since honey is the most important natural product rich in minerals, proteins, and vitamins, it has been intensively used in such therapies. Honey has gained significant consideration because of the beneficial role of its antioxidant compounds, such as enzymes, proteins, amino and organic acids, polyphenols, and carotenoids, but mainly due to flavonoids and phenolic acids. It has been proven that phenolic compounds are responsible for honey's biological activity and that its physicochemical properties, antioxidants, and antimicrobial potential are significant for human health. The review also presents some mechanisms of action and the medical applications of honey, such as wound healing dressings, skin grafts, honey-based nanofibers, and cochlear implants, as the most promising wound healing tools. This extensive review has been written to highlight honey's applications in medicine; its composition with the most important bioactive compounds also illustrates its synergistic effect with other natural products having remarkable therapeutic properties in wound healing.

Changes in the Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidant Activity and Metabolite Analysis of Black Elephant Garlic (Allium ampeloprasum L.) during Aging Period

This study investigated the effects of the aging period on the black elephant garlic (Allium ampeloprasum L.) manufacturing process. Black elephant garlic is a processed elephant garlic product prepared by high-temperature and high-humidity treatment for 40 days. The proximate composition (moisture, crude lipid, crude protein, carbohydrate, and ash), minerals, color values, reducing sugars, pH, total polyphenol contents, total flavonoid contents and antioxidant activities of elephant garlic and black elephant garlic were evaluated. The browning intensity of elephant garlic increased with the aging period, but the browning reaction terminated after aging for 30 days, exhibiting the same browning level. Reducing sugars increased over the aging period until 20 days, and then decreased with the aging period, in contrast to the pH, which decreased from 6.47 to 3.68 over the aging period. Antioxidant components, including the total polyphenol and total flavonoid contents of black elephant garlic, increased significantly until day 30 of aging. From the metabolite profiles determined through GC/MS analysis, it was confirmed that primary metabolites related to antioxidant components, such as lactic acid and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furoic acid, were generated during the aging process of elephant garlic.

Evaluation of Marker Compounds and Biological Activity of In Vitro Regenerated and Commercial Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC. Roots Subjected to Steam Processing

Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC., belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae, has been known since immemorial times as a prominent oriental drug in East Asia that can treat various ailments, such as kidney disorders, anemia, and diabetes. In order to be applied for medical purposes, R. glutinosa is commonly processed using steam to increase its efficacy and biological activity. The increasing demand for R. glutinosa in the traditional medicine industry encouraged many researchers to develop a fast, efficient, and high-quality production system using biotechnological approaches. This study aimed to compare the chemical and biological activities of in vitro regenerated R. glutinosa (PKR) and commercial R. glutinosa (PCR) samples subjected to steam processing. We assessed the effects of steam processing and the differences in R. glutinosa material on 5-Hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde (5-HMF) content, total flavonoid and phenolic content, antioxidant activity, nitric oxide (NO) levels, and anti-inflammatory activity. PKR samples showed a significantly higher content of 5-HMF (0.15%) as compared to PCR samples (0.05%). Compared to unprocessed R. glutinosa (UPR) and PCR samples, PKR again showed the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content of 41.578 mg GAE/g and 17.208 mg RUE/g, respectively. Meanwhile, both processed R. glutinosa samples (PKR and PCR) showed a significantly higher DPPH antioxidant activity ((67.095 + 1.005)% and (61.579 + 0.907)%, respectively) than unprocessed R. glutinosa ((31.452 + 1.371)%). In addition, both PKR and PCR samples showed good anti-inflammatory activity by showing similar effects such as the inhibition of NO production and the suppression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Based on these results, PKR fulfilled the Chinese pharmacopeia standards, in terms of the amount of the marker compounds and showed a high level of bioactivity. Therefore, these findings are expected to be useful in verifying the efficacy of herbal medicines and the availability of suitable materials for medicinal use.

Antioxidant, Anti-Cancer Activity and Phytochemicals Profiling of Kigelia pinnata Fruits

Over the past few years, research studies on the therapeutic benefits of medicinal plants with potent antioxidant activity and few side effects have grown significantly. This has sparked interest in determining whether naturally occurring antioxidants could take the place of synthetic antioxidants, which are currently being constricted because of their toxic and carcinogenic properties. The identification and quantification of phytochemicals in the methanolic extract of Kigelia pinnata fruits was measured using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) techniques. Additionally, the methanolic extract of fruits was used to determine antioxidant activity. Free radical-scavenging (DPPH) and ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power were measured using spectrophotometry, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was compared with two common antioxidants, vitamin C and α-tocopherol. Moreover, mature fruits have high DDPH, ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power and total antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, mature fruits have high levels of total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin content; these compounds are thought to be the sources of the antioxidant activity. The major constituents of the methanolic extracts from the mature fruits of K. pinnata were found to be larixinic acid, 3,5-Dihydroxy-6-methyl-2,3-dihydro-4H-pyran-4-one (DMDP), and 5-Hydrxoymethylfurfural. We performed the elemental analysis of the whole fruit. Huh-7 (liver cancer), PANC-1 (pancreatic cancer), Colo-205 (colorectal cancer), HT-29 (colorectal cancer), SNU-16 (gastric carcinoma), SW620 (colorectal adenocarcinoma) and HCT116 (colon carcinoma) were tested in vitro for anticancer activity. Both methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts of mature fruits had a positive effect on all cancer cell lines as compared to the doxorubicin drug. In addition, the methanolic extracts of mature fruits showed more potent cytotoxic effects than the ethyl acetate extracts. Moreover, the most pronounced cytotoxic effects of the methanolic extract were detected in SW620 (colorectal adenocarcinoma), with an IC50 value of 6.79 μg/mL, SNU-16 (gastric carcinoma), with and IC50 value of 8.69 μg/ ml, and in PANC-1 (pancreatic cancer) with an IC50 value of 10.34 μg/mL. Moreover, the results show that the water, ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts of mature fruits have antioxidant capacity, ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power, DPPH scavenging activity and also anticancer activity. Therefore, the present study suggests that the phytochemical profiles of mature fruits of K. pinnata may be used as potential natural antioxidants and anti-cancer cell lines.

Physicochemical Profile, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Honeys Produced in Minas Gerais (Brazil)

Honeys can be classified as polyfloral or monofloral and have been extensively studied due to an increased interest in their consumption. There is concern with the correct identification of their flowering, the use of analyses that guarantee their physicochemical quality and the quantification of some compounds such as phenolics, to determine their antioxidant and antimicrobial action. This study aims at botanical identification, physicochemical analyses, and the determination of total polyphenols, chromatographic profile and antiradical and antimicrobial activity of honey from different regions of Minas Gerais. Seven different samples were analyzed for the presence of pollen, and color determination. The physicochemical analyses performed were total acidity, moisture, HMF, reducing sugar, and apparent sucrose. The compound profile was determined by UHPLC/MS, the determination of total phenolics and antiradical activity (DPPH method) were performed by spectrophotometry, and minimum inhibitory and bacterial concentrations were determined for cariogenic bacteria. All honey samples met the quality standards required by international legislation, twenty compounds were detected as the main ones, the polyfloral honey was the only honey that inhibited all of the bacteria tested. Sample M6 (Coffee) was the one with the highest amount of total polyphenols, while the lowest was M4 (Cipó-uva). Regarding the antioxidant activity, M5 (Velame) had the best result and M4 (Cipó-uva) was the one that least inhibited oxidation. Of the polyfloral honeys, there was not as high a concentration of phenolic compounds as in the others. Coffee, Aroeira, Velame and Polyfloral have the best anti-radical actions. Betônica, Aroeira, Cipó-uva and Pequi inhibited only some bacteria. The best bacterial inhibition results are from Polyfloral.

A review on ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of the genus Didymocarpus wall. (Gesneriaceae)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Medicinal plants have been extensively used to treat various illnesses since the dawn of civilization. The genus Didymorcapus Wall. comprises 100 species widely distributed in the tropical regions of Asia, with a few found scattered in Africa and Australia. Species in this genus have long been used in folk medicine to treat various illnesses, including wounds, kidney stones, inflammations, asthma, flu, eczema, dysentery, fractures, colic etc. Some species have applications as weight loss agents, laxatives, and protective medication after childbirth.

AIM

To provide comprehensive information on the current knowledge of the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical compounds, pharmacological applications, and toxicology of genus Didymocarpus to reveal its therapeutic potential, offering insights into future research opportunities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were systematically obtained from books and online databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Sci Finder, Google Scholar, Science direct, ACS Publications, Elsevier, Wiley Online Library.

RESULTS

Seventeen Didymocarpus species have applications in traditional medicine in different Asian countries. A total of 166 compounds have been isolated from the genus Didymocarpus including terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, fatty acids, chalcones, steroids, and others. Among these constituents, terpenoids, flavonoids, chalcones, and phenolics are the significant contributors to pharmacological activities of the genus Didymocarpus, possessing wide-reaching biological activities both in vivo and in vitro. The crude extracts and isolated phytochemical compounds from this genus have been shown to exhibit various pharmacological activities, including antiurolithiatic, nephro-protective, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, cytotoxic, wound healing, and antioxidant activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Traditional uses and scientific evaluation of Didymocarpus indicate that Didymocarpus pedicellata is one of the most widely used species in some parts of the world. Although substantial progress on the chemical and pharmacological properties of Didymocarpus species has been made, further studies on the pharmacology and toxicology of these species are needed to ensure safety, efficacy, and quality. Also, further research on the structure-activity relationship of some of the isolated phytocompounds may improve their biological potency and scientific exploitation of traditional uses of the Didymocarpus taxa.

Natural Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Antiproliferative Activities of Ethanolic Extracts from Punica granatum L. Tree Barks Mediated by Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase

The nonedible parts of the pomegranate plant, such as tree barks and fruit peels, have pharmacological properties that are useful in traditional medicine. To increase their value, this study aimed to compare the antioxidative and antibacterial effects of ethanolic extracts from pomegranate barks (PBE) and peels (PPE). The antiproliferative effects on HeLa and HepG2 cells through the extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway were also evaluated. The results indicated that the total amounts of phenolics and flavonoids of PBE and PPE were 574.64 and 242.60 mg equivalent gallic acid/g sample and 52.98 and 23.08 mg equivalent quercetin/g sample, respectively. Gas chromatography−mass spectrometry revealed that 5-hdroxymethylfurfural was the major component of both PBE (23.76%) and PPE (33.19%). The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate free radical scavenging capacities of PBE and PPE, in terms of the IC50 value, were 4.1 and 9.6 µg/mL, respectively. PBE had a greater potent antibacterial effect against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella Enteritidis, and S. Typhimurium. PBE and PPE (1000 µg/mL) had exhibited no cytotoxic effects on LLC-MK2. PBE and PPE (250 and 1000 µg/mL, respectively) treatments were safe for BHK-21. Both extracts significantly inhibited HepG2 and HeLa cell proliferations at 10 and 50 µg/mL, respectively (p < 0.001). The results indicated that PBE and PPE have remarkable efficiencies as free radical scavengers and antibacterial agents, with PBE exhibiting greater efficiency. The inhibitory effects on HepG2 might be through the modulation of the ERK1/2 expression. PBE and PPE have the potential for use as optional supplementary antioxidative, antibacterial, and anticancer agents.

Alpha-Ketoglutarate or 5-HMF: Single Compounds Effectively Eliminate Leukemia Cells via Caspase-3 Apoptosis and Antioxidative Pathways

Background: We recently showed that a combined solution containing alpha-ketoglutarate (aKG) and 5-hydroxymethyl-furfural (5-HMF) has a solid antitumoral effect on the Jurkat cell line due to the fact of its antioxidative, caspase-3 and apoptosis activities, but no negative effect on human fibroblasts was obtained. The question arises how the single compounds, aKG and 5-HMF, affect peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻) and nitration of tyrosine residues, Jurkat cell proliferation and caspase-activated apoptosis. Methods: The ONOO⁻ luminol-induced chemiluminescence reaction was used to measure the ONOO⁻ scavenging function of aKG or 5-HMF, and their protection against nitration of tyrosine residues on bovine serum albumin was estimated with the ELISA technique. The Jurkat cell line was cultivated in the absence or presence of aKG or 5-HMF solutions between 0 and 3.5 µM aKG or 0 and 4 µM 5-HMF. Jurkat cells were tested for cell proliferation, mitochondrial activity and caspase-activated apoptosis. Results: aKG showed a concentration-dependent reduction in ONOO⁻, resulting in a 90% elimination of ONOO⁻ using 200 mM aKG. In addition, 20 and 200 mM 5-HMF were able to reduce ONOO⁻ only by 20%, while lower concentrations of 5-HMF remained stable in the presence of ONOO⁻. Nitration of tyrosine residues was inhibited 4 fold more effectively with 5-HMF compared to aKG measuring the IC50%. Both substances, aKG and 5-HMF, were shown to cause a reduction in Jurkat cell growth that was dependent on the dose and incubation time. The aKG effectively reduced Jurkat cell growth down to 50% after 48 and 72 h of incubation using the highest concentration of 3.5 µM, and 1, 1.6, 2, 3 and 4 µM 5-HMF inhibited any cell growth within (i) 24 h; 1.6, 2, 3 and 4 µM 5-HMF within 48 h (ii); 2, 3 and 4 µM 5-HMF within 72 h (iii). Furthermore, 4 µM was able to eliminate the starting cell number of 20,000 cells after 48 and 72 h down to 11,233 cells. The mitochondrial activity measurements supported the data on aKG or 5-HMF regarding cell growth in Jurkat cells, in both a dose- and incubation-time-dependent manner: the highest concentration of 3.5 µM aKG reduced the mitochondrial activity over 24 h (67.7%), 48 h (57.9%) and 72 h (46.8%) of incubation with Jurkat cells compared to the control incubation without aKG (100%). 5-HMF was more effective compared to aKG; the mitochondrial activity in the presence of 4 µM 5-HMF decreased after 24 h down to 68.4%, after 48 h to 42.9% and after 72 h to 32.0%. Moreover, 1.7 and 3.4 µM aKG had no effect on caspase-3-activated apoptosis (0.58% and 0.56%) in the Jurkat cell line. However, 2 and 4 µM 5-HMF increased the caspase-3-activated apoptosis up to 22.1% and 42.5% compared to the control (2.9%). A combined solution of 1.7 µM aKG + 0.7 µM 5-HMF showed a higher caspase-3-activated apoptosis (15.7%) compared to 1.7 µM aKG or 2 µM 5-HMF alone. In addition, 3.5 µM µg/mL aKG + 1.7 µM 5-HMF induced caspase-activated apoptosis up to 55.6% compared to 4.5% or 35.6% caspase-3 activity using 3.5 µM aKG or 4 µM 5-HMF. Conclusion: Both substances showed high antioxidative potential in eliminating either peroxynitrite or nitration of tyrosine residues, which results in a better inhibition of cell growth and mitochondrial activity of 5-HMF compared to aKG. However, caspase-3-activated apoptosis measurements revealed that the combination of both substances synergistically is the most effective compared to single compounds.

Modulatory Effects of Arctostaphylos uva-urs Extract In Ovo Injected into Broiler Embryos Contaminated by Aflatoxin B1

In ovo injection of nutrients can modulate the embryo’s physiological responses against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) embryotoxicity. This hypothesis was tested using in ovo injection of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Ar. uu.) methanolic extract. The total polyphenols, total flavonoids, total antioxidant capacity, and GC-MS analysis were all assessed in the Ar. uu. methanolic extract. A total of 180 ten-day-old embryonated eggs were distributed into six groups of 30 replicates each. The first group was used as a control (non-injected), and the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth groups were injected with 10 µ double-distilled water (DDW), 500 µL methanol, 0.01 g Ar. uu./500 µL methanol, 50 ng AFB1/10 µL DDW, and 50 ng AFB1 in 10 µ DDW + 0.01 g Ar. uu./500 µL methanol, respectively. The relative embryo weight, residual yolk sac weight, tibia length and weight, and survival were recorded. Total and differential leukocytes, oxidative stress, and humoral immune responses were observed. The residual yolk sac was lower (p < 0.05) in the Ar. uu. group than other groups. The embryonic growth (tibia weight and length) was enhanced in AFB1 + Ar. uu.-injected embryos compared with those injected with AFB1 alone. In conclusion, in ovo injection of Arctostaphylos uva-ursi could modulate AFB1-induced toxicity in chicken embryos.

New insights into geraniol's antihemolytic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticoagulant potentials using a combined biological and in silico screening strategy

The study aims to assess the antihemolytic and antioxidant activities of geraniol versus 2, 2'-azobis, 2-amidinopropane dihydro-chloride- (AAPH-) induced oxidative damage and hemolysis to erythrocytes and its anti-inflammatory potential against lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced inflammation in white blood cells (WBCs) with a focus on its integrated computational strategies against different targeted receptors participating in inflammation and coagulation. The rats' erythrocyte suspension was incubated with different geraniol concentrations. Molecular docking and simulation were used to explore the possible interaction patterns of geraniol against the potential targeted proteins for therapeutic screening. The results displayed that geraniol had a prolonged noteworthy effect on activated partial thromboplastin time and thromboplastin time. Geraniol displayed strong antioxidant effects via reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) formation and increased GSH level and SOD activity. We observed dose-dependent prevention of K⁺ ion leakage along with a remarkable decline of hemolysis in erythrocytes pretreated with geraniol. Geraniol 100 µg/mL and diclofenac 100 µM were nontoxic to WBCs. Geraniol significantly reduces the expression and release of cellular pro-inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8, and nitric oxide, accompanied by a significant upregulation of gene expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in LPS-induced WBCs compared to nontreated cells. It demonstrates a much stronger inhibition potential than diclofenac in terms of inflammation inhibition. When comparing molecular docking and simulation data, current work showed that geraniol has a good affinity toward apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) and human P2Y12 receptors and could be developed as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticoagulant medication in the future. Consequently, geraniol is recommended to have a defensive influence against oxidative stress, and hemolysis also could be developed as a promising anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticoagulant medication.

Biochemical Reactions and Their Biological Contributions in Honey

Honey is known for its content of biomolecules, such as enzymes. The enzymes of honey originate from bees, plant nectars, secretions or excretions of plant-sucking insects, or from microorganisms such as yeasts. Honey can be characterized by enzyme-catalyzed and non-enzymatic reactions. Notable examples of enzyme-catalyzed reactions are the production of hydrogen peroxide through glucose oxidase activity and the conversion of hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen by catalase enzymes. Production of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) from glucose or fructose is an example of non-enzymatic reactions in honey.

In Vitro and In Vivo Antioxidant and Anticancer Potentials of Royal Jelly for Dimethylhydrazine-Induced Colorectal Cancer in Wistar Rats

Methods

This study was conducted among 60 rats, and groups consist of control, three separate groups for RJ, dimethylhydrazine (DMH), and vitamin E, and two separate treated groups with DMH + RJ and DMH + vitamin E. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of royal jelly was examined on HT-29 cell line. Findings. Based on the in vitro assessment using MTT assay, the LC50 of royal jelly was 1.781 mg/ml, and the highest cytotoxicity was observed at 25 mg/ml concentration after 48 hours. Meanwhile, in the in vivo study, after the 13th week, compared to the DMH group, the rats exposed to DMH + royal jelly experienced a significant less oxidative stress (P < 0.05) and a significantly greater total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level (P < 0.05). The expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) proteins significantly decreased among the animals receiving DMH + royal jelly compared to the DMH group. The pathological examinations revealed less congestion, necrosis, inflammation, and cell proliferation in the colon tissue of the RJ-treated group than that of the DMH group. Overall, the biochemical indices were better in the treatment groups in comparison with the DMH group.

Conclusion

The results represented the clinical usability of royal jelly, as a substance with anticancer properties, to prevent and treat colorectal cancer. This issue is related to its effective antioxidant potential, which even exhibits more effectiveness than the vitamin E, which is known as a strong antioxidant.

The shortest innovative process for enhancing the S-allylcysteine content and antioxidant activity of black and golden garlic

Black garlic is a type of heat-treated garlic for which the traditional process is extremely simple yet time-consuming, taking more than one month. The purpose of this research was to reduce the processing time of black garlic while maintaining a high level of S-allylcysteine (SAC), a black garlic quality indicator. The fresh garlic was pre-treated with CaCl₂ and frozen before being further incubated at two different temperatures (60 and 80 °C) with a relative humidity of 65% and 80% RH. Results showed that sequential pre-treatment and incubation at 80 °C and 80% RH for 1 week yielded 874.26 mg of SAC/100 g dry weight with an antioxidant activity of 5390 and 25,421 mg Trolox/100 g for DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. This process shortened the processing time of black garlic by about 4-times. The batch processed at 60 °C and 65% RH for 1 week provided the highest SAC content of about 1772 mg/100 g dry weight, which was 2-times higher than in incubation at 80 °C and 80% RH for 1 week. The colour of this garlic was golden, so we call this new processed garlic product “golden garlic”.

Comparison of the Effects of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural in Milk Powder Matrix and Standard Water on Oxidative Stress System of Zebrafish

5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) and furfural (FF) are products of the maillard reaction (MR) in milk powder and their safety is controversial. The concentration changes of 5-HMF and FF after a period of cold storage were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Then, we compared the toxicity effects of 5-HMF (2, 20, or 200 μM) in milk powder matrix and standard water on the oxidative stress system of zebrafish embryos. The results showed that the concentration of 5-HMF was stable, and the concentration of FF degraded over time. 5-HMF-exposed zebrafish embryos had a LC₅₀ value of 961 μM for 120 h. High-concentration of 5-HMF exposure resulted in developmental toxicity and induced oxidative stress. 5-HMF exposure resulted in low expression of gstr gene at 200 μM in both matrices. Moreover, sod, cat, gstr, and gpxla genes were differentially highly expressed in other groups or showed no significant difference. Residual levels in all groups were well below the exposed dose, with a maximum value of only 0.4‱. These results provided a theoretical basis for understanding the effects of 5-HMF exposure in milk powder matrix on the oxidative stress system and suggested that the presence of 5-HMF in our daily consumption of milk powder does not produce significant toxic effects and need not be overstressed.

Protective effects of Persea americana fruit and seed extracts against chemically induced liver cancer in rats by enhancing their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptotic activities

This study aims to explore the chemopreventive mechanisms of hydroethanolic extracts from avocado (Persea Americana) in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)/2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis. Chemical induction of hepatocarcinogenesis was induced by intraperitoneal injection of DEN at 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) twice a week for a fortnight, followed by oral administration of 2AAF at 20 mg/kg b.w. four times a week for 3 weeks. Rats administered DEN/2AAF were orally treated with hydroethanolic extracts of avocado fruits and seeds at a dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. every other day for 20 weeks. Moreover, rats administered DEN/2AAF and treated with avocado extracts revealed a marked decrease in liver enzyme activities, total bilirubin levels, and elevated liver tumor markers, but revealed an increase in total protein and albumin levels. The hepatocytes with hyperchromatic and bile duct cystadenoma observed in the liver of rats administered DEN/2AAF were reduced due to treatment with avocado extracts. Furthermore, the treatments prevented the elevation of lipid peroxidation levels and ameliorated the lowered glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase activities, and glutathione content in the liver tissues. Also, antigen Ki-67, cyclooxygenase-2, and nuclear factor kappa-B expression levels were decreased, but of the suppressor proteins p53 and BAX levels were increased in the liver of rats administered DEN/2AAF and treated with avocado extracts. In conclusion, the current results demonstrated that avocado extracts could abate hepatocarcinogenesis in rats administered DEN/2AAF through activation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and apoptotic properties.

Antioxidant activity and α-glucosidase inhibitability of Distichochlamys citrea M.F. Newman rhizome fractionated extracts: in vitro and in silico screenings

Distichochlamys citrea M.F. Newman (commonly known as “Black Ginger”) is an endemic plant to Vietnam and has been extensively exploited by folk medication for treatments of infection-related diseases and diabetes. In this work, its rhizomes were subjected to fractionated extraction, phytochemical examination, evaluation of antioxidant effect by DDPH free radical neutralization, and inhibitory activity toward α-glucosidase. The compositional components were subjected to in silico screening, including density functional theory calculation, molecular docking simulation, physicochemical analysis, and pharmacokinetic regression. In the trials, EtOAc fraction is found as the bioactive part of most effectiveness, regarding both antioxidant effect (IC₅₀ = 90.27 µg mL⁻¹) and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ = 115.75 μg mL⁻¹). Chemical determination reveals there are 13 components of its composition. DFT-based calculations find no abnormal constraints in their structures. Docking-based simulation provides order of inhibitory effectiveness: 3-P53341 > 12-P53341 > 7-P53341 > 4-P53341 > 11-P53341 > 10-P53341. QSARIS-based investigations implicate their biocompatibility. ADMET-based regressions indicate that all candidates are generally safe for medicinal applications. The findings would contribute to the basis for further studies on the chemical compositions of Distichochlamys citrea and their biological activities.

Protective role of the dried white mulberry extract on the reproductive damage and fertility in rats treated with carmustine

The present study investigated the protective effect of dried white Mulberry extract (DWME) against carmustine (Crm) induced biochemical alterations and spermatological, histopathological, and fertility damage in Wistar albino rats. Male rats were divided into four groups (control, Crm, Crm + DWME, and DWME group). It was found that Crm decreased the motility. Crm decreased the concentration (not different from control group) compared to DWME groups. Total blood MDA levels were reduced during the recovery period. Also, the recovery period reduced the MDA levels in the Crm group/testicular tissue. The GSH levels in the Crm + DWME group were the highest among all groups in the testicular tissue/experiment period. In the immunohistochemical evaluation of the testicular tissue, a high level of caspase-3 was observed in the cells that underwent meiosis in the Crm group. The most pronounced DNA damage was also detected in the Crm group. The Crm + DWME group showed the highest number of offspring born during recovery period. In conclusion, dried white mulberry extract protects against the spermatological damages caused by carmustine. Moreover, recovery period played a positive effect on spermatological parameters and fertility.

Secondary product from strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) fruit for extended preservation and value addition

Strawberry is highly delicate and perishable fruit prone to microbial spoilage. To address these issues, secondary product(s) using strawberry pulp was prepared by adding sweetener (jaggery or sucrose) and anti-browning agent (citrate) to reduce the extent of drying induced sourness and discoloration, respectively. Subsequently, these products were LDPE packed and radiation processed (≤ 5 kGy) to ensure microbiological safety during ambient temperature storage. Physical, biochemical, functional (antioxidant and antimutagenic) and organoleptic properties (including flavor compounds) were found to be either retained or enhanced compared to dehydrated strawberry pulp. The product termed as dehydrated strawberry roll having jaggery and citrate (DSRJ) was found to be more acceptable than that having sucrose and citrate (DSRS) till 5 months. Scanning electron microscopy indicated better surface quality of DSRJ than DSRS. Electrochemical property when analyzed using cyclic voltammetry displayed strong correlation to radical scavenging antioxidant assays with marginal storage associated shift in the peak potential. GC-MS analysis indicated retention of most of the flavor compounds in DSRJ during storage. Thus, DSRJ, a value-added product could provide a solution to control post-harvest losses of the fruit by processing to a more stable form and ensuring availability beyond the season.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-021-05171-9.

Antidesma thwaitesianum Müll. Arg. fruit extract rich in 5-hydroxymethylfurfural exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages

Introduction: Antidesma thwaitesianum Müll. Arg is a tropical fruit, which has been commonly used for healthy food and traditional herbal medicine. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of A. thwaitesianum fruit extract (AFE) rich in 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Methods: The chemical composition of AFE was analysed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). RAW264.7 cells were used as an in vitro inflammatory response model. RAW264.7 cells were pre-treated with various concentrations of AFE or 5-HMF and subsequently treated with LPS. Cell viability was assessed by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The production levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators, including nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-1β, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α were determined by the Griess assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was examined by western blot analysis. Results: AFE had a high content of 5-HMF (61.03% ± 0.49%). Pre-treatment with AFE and 5-HMF markedly reduced LPS-induced pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines, namely NO, IL-1β, and TNF-α, in RAW264.7 cells; this reduction correlated with downregulation of iNOS expression. Conclusion: This study suggests that A. thwaitesianum fruit extract containing 5-HMF could modulate the LPS-induced inflammatory response by inhibiting NO, IL-1β, and TNF-α production and iNOS expression. A. thwaitesianum fruit extract rich in 5-HMF could be considered a potential therapeutic agent for the prevention of inflammation.

5-Hydroxymethylfurfural Exerts Negative Effects on Gastric Mucosal Epithelial Cells by Inducing Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis, and Tight Junction Disruption

5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) is a processing byproduct present in foods that are consumed daily by humans, and the diet is the principal route for human exposure to it. However, its adverse effects on gastric epithelial cells are not fully understood. Based on the half inhibitory concentration value, concentrations of HMF of 2, 4, 8, and 16 mM were selected for this study. After 5-HMF treatment for 24 h, the number of living cells decreased to 89.61 ± 0.48, 77.30 ± 0.57, 58.75 ± 0.36, and 19.61 ± 0.40% of the control, respectively. Apoptosis activated through both the death receptor and mitochondrial pathways was confirmed to be the primary mode of HMF-induced cell death. Further analysis revealed that the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in GES-1 cells increased 1.7-6.5 fold after exposure to 5-HMF. Moreover, the inhibition of ROS by N-acetylcysteine blocked HMF-induced apoptosis and cell proliferation suppression, indicating that oxidative stress was important in HMF-induced apoptosis. Besides, after 5-HMF treatment, the gene expressions of occludin and ZO-1 were reduced by 1.1-3.4 fold and 2.0-9.4 fold, respectively. The cell surface morphology and tight junction-related protein expression analysis also revealed the destructive effect of 5-HMF on tight junction integrity. Our research highlights a potential mechanism of HMF-induced toxicity in GES-1 cells and provides additional information on the health risks of 5-HMF exposure to the human gastric epithelium.

Green extraction of bioactive compounds from wine lees and their bio-responses on immune modulation using in vitro sheep model

The objective of this study was to apply microwave-assisted extraction using green solvents starting from 3 different wine (white, rosé, and red) lees and to test their bio-response on sheep peripheral blood mononuclear cells proliferation, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and cytokines secretion. Wine lees (WL) of local organic farming from white wine, produced with Trebbiano cultivar, rosé and red wine, made with Nero di Troia cultivar, were collected. The WL were subjected to microwave-assisted extraction using 2 green solvents (water and ethanol) in 3 different combinations (water; water/ethanol 1:1 vol/vol; ethanol) with a dry matter-to-solvent ratio of 1:40 (wt/vol) at 4 temperature levels: 50, 100, 150, and 200°C. Sodium carbonate Na₂CO₃ (2 mmol/g of dry weight of lees) was used for increasing the polyphenol extraction yield. A total number of 6 extracts, 2 for each kind of WL investigated, according to their total phenolic content and in vitro antioxidant capacity, were selected to be tested on sheep peripheral blood mononuclear cells, as an animal model. All the WL extracts demonstrated a strong antiproliferative action. On the contrary, the cytokines' profile was mainly dependent on the different winemaking derived WL and the extraction solvent combination procedures. Red WL extract obtained by a combination of water/Na₂CO₃ and tested at 0.8 mg/mL, resulted in an increase of both IL-6 secretion and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. Data from the present study demonstrated that WL extracts derived from different winemaking and solvent extraction could have a bimodal action on control of inflammatory mediated damage and highlighted the importance for further studies aimed at applying the biorefinery process on by-products to increase their economic value and exploit new derived bioactive compound.

Degradation and de novo formation of nine major glucose degradation products during storage of peritoneal dialysis fluids

Reactive glucose degradation products (GDPs) are formed during heat sterilization of glucose-containing peritoneal dialysis fluids (PDFs) and may induce adverse clinical effects. Long periods of storage and/or transport of PDFs before use may lead to de novo formation or degradation of GDPs. Therefore, the present study quantified the GDP profiles of single- and double-chamber PDFs during storage. Glucosone, 3-deoxyglucosone (3-DG), 3-deoxygalactosone (3-DGal), 3,4-dideoxyglucosone-3-ene (3,4-DGE), glyoxal, methylglyoxal (MGO), acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) were quantified by two validated UHPLC-DAD methods after derivatization with o-phenylenediamine (dicarbonyls) or 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (monocarbonyls). The PDFs were stored at 50 °C for 0, 1, 2, 4, 13, and 26 weeks. The total GDP concentration of single-chamber PDFs did not change considerably during storage (496.6 ± 16.0 µM, 0 weeks; 519.1 ± 13.1 µM, 26 weeks), but individual GDPs were affected differently. 3-DG (− 82.6 µM) and 3-DGal (− 71.3 µM) were degraded, whereas 5-HMF (+ 161.7 µM), glyoxal (+ 32.2 µM), and formaldehyde (+ 12.4 µM) accumulated between 0 and 26 weeks. Acetaldehyde, glucosone, MGO, and 3,4-DGE showed time-dependent formation and degradation. The GDP concentrations in double-chamber fluids were generally lower and differently affected by storage. In conclusion, the changes of GDP concentrations during storage should be considered for the evaluation of clinical effects of PDFs.

Structural characterization, antioxidant activity, and protective effect against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress of chemically degraded Gracilaria fisheri sulfated galactans

Sulfated polysaccharides (SPs) possess an extensive range of biological activities, such as the inhibition of oxidation, correlated with their molecular weight (MW) and chemical structure. In this study, we used the trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) controlled degradation method to degrade sulfated galactans (SG) isolated from Gracilaria fisheri and evaluated the antioxidant and protective effects of the low molecular weight SG (LMSG) against H₂O₂ on fibroblast cells for the first time. Degradation of native SG (NSG) with an initial MW of 217.45 kDa using different concentrations of TFA resulted in five degraded NSG with MW of 97.23, 62.26, 30.74, 2.63, and 2.59 kDa. The reduction in MW was positively correlated with TFA concentrations. Chemical structure analyses using FTIR and NMR indicated that the TFA degradation process did not significantly change the LMSG polysaccharide main chain but did change the functional groups. LMSG exhibited higher scavenging activities and enhanced the cellular activities of GSH, CAT, and SOD enzymes. Moreover, LMSG activated Nrf-2/ARE signaling and increased expression of antioxidant genes CAT and SOD, which corresponded to increase protective effects against H₂O₂-induced ROS generation in fibroblast cells. The study reveals modification of NSG by acid TFA degradation resulted in the creation of LMSG, which showed greater antioxidant activity.