Evaluation of antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of white cabbage essential oil

In vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of bioactive compounds extracted from Streptomyces africanus strain E2 isolated from Moroccan soil

This study aimed to isolate Streptomyces sp. from Moroccan terrestrial ecosystems and identify bioactive compounds through GC-MS analysis. Antimicrobial activity was assessed against various pathogenic microorganisms including Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Candida albicans ATCC 60193, and multi-drug resistant strains comprising Listeria monocytogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae 19K 929, Proteus sp. 19K1313, Klebsiella pneumoniae 20B1572, Proteus vulgaris 16C1737, and Klebsiella pneumoniae 20B1572. Based on the results of the gene sequencing of gene 16S rRNA and phylogenetic analysis, the E2 isolate belongs to the genus Streptomyces with the highest degree of resemblance (97.51%) to the Streptomyces africanus strain NBRC 101005 (NR_112600.1). The isolate exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, with maximum efficacy against Klebsiella pneumoniae 20B1572 indicated by an inhibition zone diameter of 22.5 ± 0.71mm and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.0625 mg/mL. The in vitro antioxidant potential of E2 strain was determined through screening of its ethyl acetate extract against sets of antioxidant assays. The results were indicative of E2 strain displaying strong antioxidant activity against ABTS, DPPH free radicals, and FRAP. Furthermore, there was a high significant correlation (p < 0.0001) between the total phenolic and flavonoid content and antioxidant activities. The GC-MS analysis of the extract identified six volatile compounds, with Eugenol (96%) and Maltol (93%) being the most prominent. Additionally, the HPLC-UV/vis analysis revealed six phenolic compounds: gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, vanillic acid, trans-ferulic acid, ellagic acid, and cinnamic acid. Overall, the study highlights Streptomyces sp. strain E2 as a potential source of potent antimicrobial and antioxidant metabolites, offering promise in addressing antibiotic resistance and oxidative stress-related conditions.

Antimicrobial Potential of Brassica oleracea Extracts (White and Broccoli) and Their Resistance Compared to Doxycycline Against Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria

Brassica oleracea L is low in carbohydrates and fiber, making it ideal for low-carb diets. But they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. The present article investigated the antimicrobial effect of B. oleracea extract (white and broccoli) (BOE-WB) on Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains and its resistance to doxycycline. BOE-WB was used as the soaking method. It was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) methods. The samples were prepared with three concentrations. It used Mueller Hinton Agar culture medium of fresh bacteria. It was incubated for 24 h in a 37°C incubator. It identified 33 compounds. For BOE-W, 77% of the compounds are oxygenated, while for BOE-B, this percentage is 79%. For BOE-B, 79% had oxygenated compounds. BOE-WB has significant antibacterial effects on Pseudomonas aerogenosa and Bacillus cereus. The lethal impact of BOE-WB on strains is very close to that of doxycycline, and it can be introduced as a new antimicrobial drug to the medical world. The research shows that the percentage of oxygenated compounds in foods containing BOE-B is much higher than that of BOE-W. It has a significant impact on the antioxidant effect. Foods containing BOE-W have a high percentage of azo compounds and sulfur. One of the benefits of sulfur in the body is disinfecting the blood. In addition, sulfur increases the body's resistance to bacteria.

Exploring the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Lentzea flaviverrucosa strain E25-2 isolated from Moroccan forest soil

The alarming rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has created a significant public health challenge, necessitating the discovery of new therapeutic agents to combat infectious diseases and oxidative stress-related disorders. The Lentzea flaviverrucosa strain E25-2, isolated from Moroccan forest soil, represents a potential avenue for such research. This study aimed to identify the isolate E25-2, obtained from soil in a cold Moroccan ecosystem, and further investigate its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed the strain's classification within the Lentzea genus, with a sequence closely resembling that of Lentzea flaviverrucosa AS4.0578 (96.10% similarity). Antimicrobial activity in solid media showed moderate to strong activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Bacillus cereus strain ATCC 14579, Escherichia coli strain ATCC 25922, Candida albicans strain ATCC 60193 and 4 phytopathogenic fungi. In addition, ethyl acetate extract of this isolate demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity against 7 clinically multi-drug resistant bacteria. Furthermore, it demonstrated antioxidant activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) free radicals, as well as a significant increase in ferric reducing antioxidant power. A significant positive correlation was observed between antioxidant activities and total content of phenolic compounds (p < 0.0001), along with flavonoids (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed the presence of amines, hydroxyl groups, pyridopyrazinone rings, esters and pyrrolopyrazines. The Lentzea genus could offer promising prospects in the fight against antibiotic resistance and in the prevention against oxidative stress related diseases.

Antimicrobial potential of Streptomyces coeruleofuscus SCJ isolated from microbiologically unexplored garden soil in Northwest Morocco

Research on microorganisms in various biotopes is required to identify new, natural potent molecules. These molecules are essential to control the development of multi-drug resistance (MDR). In the present study, a Streptomyces sp., namely SCJ, was isolated from a soil sample collected from a Moroccan garden. SCJ isolate was identified on the basis of a polyphasic approach, which included cultural, micro-morphological, biochemical, and physiological characteristics. The sequence of the 16S rRNA gene of the SCJ strain showed 99.78% similarity to strains of Streptomyces coeruleofuscus YR-T (KY753282.1). The preliminary screening indicated that the SCJ isolate exhibited activity against Candida albicans ATCC 60,193, Escherichia coli ATCC 25,922, Staphylococcus aureus CECT 976, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25,923, Bacillus cereus ATCC 14,579, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27,853, as well as various other clinical MDR bacteria and five phytopathogenic fungi. The ethyl acetate extract of the isolated strain demonstrated highly significant (p < 0.05) antimicrobial activity against multi-resistant bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi. The absorption spectral analysis of the ethyl acetate extract of the SCJ isolate obtained showed no absorption peaks characteristic of polyene molecules. Moreover, no hemolytic activity against erythrocytes was observed in this extract. GC-MS analysis of the ethyl acetate extract of the SCJ isolate revealed the presence of 9 volatile compounds including 3,5-Dimethylpyrazole, and pyrrolizidine derivatives (Pyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine 1,4-dione, hexahydro-3-(2-methylpropyl)), which could potentially explain the antimicrobial activity demonstrated in this study.

Cellular Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antiproliferative Activities from the Flowers, Leaves and Fruits of Gallesia integrifolia Spreng Harms

Gallesia integrifolia, a notable species in the Atlantic Forest, has been traditionally employed in folk medicine for treating rheumatism, asthma, and worms. This study investigated the cellular antioxidant, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory activities of the essential oils (EOs) and crude extracts (CEs) from G. integrifolia flowers, fruits, and leaves. The chemical identification of EOs was performed by GC-MS and CEs by UHPLC-MS. Cellular antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were assessed through mouse macrophage cell culture. In addition, the antiproliferative potential was evaluated in gastric, colorectal, breast, and lung tumor cell lines and non-tumor VERO cells. EOs predominantly contained organosulfur compounds in flowers (96.29%), fruits (94.94%), and leaves (90.72%). We found the main compound is 2,2'-Disulfanediyldiethanethiol in the EOs of flowers (47.00%), leaves (41.82%), and fruits (44.39%). Phenolic compounds were identified in CEs. The EOs and CEs demonstrated potential against the tumor cell lines tested (GI₅₀ between 51 and 230 µg/mL). The selectivity index values were greater than 1.0 (1.01 to 3.37), suggesting a relative safety profile. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory activity IC₅₀ ranged from 36.00 to 268 µg/mL, and the cellular oxidation inhibition ranged from 69% to 82%. The results suggest that oils and extracts derived from G. integrifolia have potential for use in various industrial sectors.

Assessing the Larvicidal Properties of Endemic Campeche, Mexico Plant Piper cordoncillo var. apazoteanum (Piperaceae) against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) Mosquitoes

The research aims to investigate the mortality effect of essential oil from Piper cordoncillo var. apazoteanum, an endemic plant from Campeche, Mexico, on early second-instar Aedes aegypti larvae; it also aims to identify the volatile compounds present in the fresh leaves of the plant. To test the effectiveness of the essential oil, we followed World Health Organization Standard Procedures. Larvae were observed for 17 consecutive days after treatment to determine the mortality and growth-inhibitory effect exerted by the essential oil. The results showed that the essential oil was effective in controlling mosquito populations. At a concentration of 800 ppm, the oil achieved an effectiveness rate of 70.00 ± 8.16% after 24 h, increasing to 100.00 ± 0.01% mortality after 72 h. With a concentration of 400 ppm, the effectiveness was 98.33 ± 0.17% by the end of the experiment. Furthermore, the obtained results demonstrated that the LC₅₀ value was 61.84 ± 6.79 ppm, while the LC₉₀ value was 167.20 ± 11.49 ppm. Essential oil concentrations inhibited the growth of immature insect stages, with concentrations between 800-100 ppm demonstrating very high inhibitory activity, and the lowest concentration of 50 ppm showing high inhibitory activity. The study also identified 24 chemical compounds representing 86.71% of the volatile compound composition of the fresh leaves of P. cordoncillo; the most abundant compounds were Safrole, Caryophyllene oxide, E-Nerolidol, and Calarene epoxide. The method used to extract the volatile compounds, solvent-free microwave extraction (SFME), is a promising alternative to traditional methods that avoids the use of potentially harmful solvents, making it more ecologically friendly and potentially safer for professionals handling the extracted compounds. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of P. cordoncillo essential oil as an effective means of controlling mosquito populations, and provides valuable information on the chemical composition of the plant.Moreover, our study is the first to report on the biological activity and chemical composition of P. cordoncillo worldwide.

Forecasting the Degradation of Vitamin C Concentration in Commonly Consumed Vegetable Cabbage (Brassica oleracea) dipped in Different Pre-treatment Solutions

Vitamin C is considered an essential vitamin that is commonly found in most fruits and vegetables. It is susceptible to easy degradation, especially during pre-treatment and storage. This study aimed at forecasting the degradation of vitamin C in commonly consumed vegetable (cabbage) dipped in different pre-treatment solutions at different time intervals. The samples after dipping at different time intervals were prepared for analysis. Evaluation of the ascorbic acid content of the vegetable was determined using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). This consists of an isocratic elution procedure with ultraviolet-visible detection at 245 nm. The half-lives and rate constants were calculated using the integrated law method. Forecasts were determined using time series analysis. Degradation of vitamin C in this study followed a first-order kinetic model, and the average coefficient of determination (R2-value) was greater than 0.9413. The rate constants of vitamin C degradation for the vegetable dipped in different pretreatment solutions (sodium chloride, sodium benzoate, sodium metabisulfite and vinegar) at different time intervals were 0.0804, 0.1049, 0.0706 and 0.0553 minutes-1; half-lives were 8.2322, 7.3896, 10.9675, and 12.1086 minutes, respectively. The vegetable dipped in different pretreatments for 90 minutes exhibited ln(C) forecast of -2.2057, -4.6307, -1.1746, and 0.0789, respectively. The coefficient of correlation for sodium chloride, sodium benzoate, sodium metabisulfite, and vinegar are 0.084, 0.093, 0.063 and 0.059 respectively. The kinetic models were formulated using predicted initial contents, processing time, and measured contents. The vegetable dipped in vinegar pretreatment solution using ln(C) =ln(C0) - 0.0553t gave the best model. From the results, the most appropriate pretreatment solution for enhancing the shelf life of cabbage is synthetic vinegar (prepared from acetic acid) because it has a lower rate constant, lower coefficient of correlation, and the longest half-life.

Essential Oils and Their Compounds as Potential Anti-Influenza Agents

Essential oils (EOs) are chemical substances, mostly produced by aromatic plants in response to stress, that have a history of medicinal use for many diseases. In the last few decades, EOs have continued to gain more attention because of their proven therapeutic applications against the flu and other infectious diseases. Influenza (flu) is an infectious zoonotic disease that affects the lungs and their associated organs. It is a public health problem with a huge health burden, causing a seasonal outbreak every year. Occasionally, it comes as a disease pandemic with unprecedentedly high hospitalization and mortality. Currently, influenza is managed by vaccination and antiviral drugs such as Amantadine, Rimantadine, Oseltamivir, Peramivir, Zanamivir, and Baloxavir. However, the adverse side effects of these drugs, the rapid and unlimited variabilities of influenza viruses, and the emerging resistance of new virus strains to the currently used vaccines and drugs have necessitated the need to obtain more effective anti-influenza agents. In this review, essential oils are discussed in terms of their chemistry, ethnomedicinal values against flu-related illnesses, biological potential as anti-influenza agents, and mechanisms of action. In addition, the structure-activity relationships of lead anti-influenza EO compounds are also examined. This is all to identify leading agents that can be optimized as drug candidates for the management of influenza. Eucalyptol, germacrone, caryophyllene derivatives, eugenol, terpin-4-ol, bisabolene derivatives, and camphecene are among the promising EO compounds identified, based on their reported anti-influenza activities and plausible molecular actions, while nanotechnology may be a new strategy to achieve the efficient delivery of these therapeutically active EOs to the active virus site.

Antioxidant action of persulfides and polysulfides against free radical-mediated lipid peroxidation

Hydrogen sulfide, hydropersulfides, and hydropolysulfides have been revealed to play important physiological roles such as cell signaling and protection against oxidative stress, but the underlying mechanisms and dynamics of action remain elusive. It is generally accepted that these species act by two-electron redox mechanisms, while the involvement of one-electron redox chemistry has received less attention. In this study, the radical-scavenging activity of hydrogen persulfide, hydrogen polysulfides (HS_nH n = 2-4), and diallyl- or dialkyl-sulfides (RS_nR, n = 1-4) was measured. Furthermore, their antioxidant effects against free radical-mediated human plasma lipid peroxidation were assessed by measuring lipid hydroperoxides. It was found that disodium disulfide, trisulfide, and tetrasulfide acted as potent peroxyl radical scavengers, the rate constant for scavenging peroxyl radical being 3.5 × 10⁵, 4.0 × 10⁵, and 6.0 × 10⁵ M^-1 s^-1 in PBS pH 7.4 at 37 °C respectively and that they inhibited plasma lipid peroxidation efficiently, the efficacy is increased with the catenation number. Disodium tetrasulfide was 1.5 times as reactive as Trolox toward peroxyl radical and inhibited plasma lipid peroxidation more efficiently than ascorbate and Trolox. On the other hand, diallyl- and dialkyl-sulfides did not exert significant radical-scavenging activity, nor did they inhibit lipid peroxidation efficiently, except for diallyl tetrasulfide, which suppressed plasma lipid peroxidation, despite less significantly than disodium tetrasulfide. Collectively, this study shows that hydrogen persulfide and hydrogen polysulfides act as potent radical-scavenging antioxidants and that, in addition to two-electron redox mechanisms, one electron redox reaction may also play important role in the in vivo defense against deleterious oxidative stress.

Aromatic-turmerone ameliorates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis via modulating gut microbiota in mice

Curcuma longa L. is one of the traditional Chinese herbs in the list of medicinal and food homology. Aromatic-turmerone is the main ingredient in turmeric essential oil. The aim of the present study is to investigate the treatment of Aromatic-turmerone on DSS-included colitis and its regulatory effect on intestinal flora disorder. Male KM mice supplemented with different concentration of aromatic-turmerone and mesalazine are subjected to 2% DSS in drinking water to induce colitis. Colon and cecum contents were collected for colitis lesion evaluation and inflammation-related gene analysis and colon contents for gut microbiota. The results show that treatments with Aromatic-turmerone significantly prevents colon shortening, alleviates the damage of colonic tissue, and reduces colonic inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and COX-2. Furthermore, the 16S rDNA gene sequence data indicate that Aromatic-turmerone improve the abundance of bacterial species, maintain some beneficial bacteria, and reduce harmful bacteria. Aromatic-turmerone downregulates the colonic inflammatory cytokines and modulates the abundance of intestinal flora, which is conductive to ameliorates DSS-induced colitis. Regularly intake of the edible herb may be help to prevent ulcerative colitis-related diseases.

Valorization of Spent Coffee Grounds as a Natural Source of Bioactive Compounds for Several Industrial Applications-A Volatilomic Approach

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, whose production and consumption result in large amounts of waste, namely spent coffee grounds, constituting an important source of compounds for several industrial applications. This work focused on the establishment of the volatile fingerprint of five spent coffee grounds from different geographical origins using headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC-MS), as a strategy to identify volatile organic metabolites (VOMs) with potential application in the food industry as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative agents. One hundred eleven VOMs belonging to different chemical families were identified, of which 60 were found in all spent coffee grounds analyzed. Furanic compounds (34%), nitrogen compounds (30%), and esters (19%) contributed significant to the total volatile fingerprint. The data obtained suggest that spent coffee grounds have great potential to be used as raw material for different approaches in the food industry towards the development of new food ingredients or products for human consumption, in addition to pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications, namely as antioxidant (e.g., limonene, carvacrol), antimicrobial (e.g., pyrrole-2-carboxaldehyde, β-myrcene) and anti-inflammatory (e.g., furfural, 2-furanmethanol) agents, promoting their integral valorization within the circular bioeconomy concept.

Cytochrome P450 3A2 and PGP-MDR1-Mediated Pharmacokinetic Interaction of Sinapic Acid with Ibrutinib in Rats: Potential Food/Herb–Drug Interaction

Ibrutinib (IBR) metabolism (primarily by CYP3A enzyme) is the main route of excretion for IBR, which could lead to drug–drug/herb–drug interactions with herbal medicines, nutritional supplements, and other foods. Sinapic acid (SA) is a bioactive phytonutrient that is used as a dietary supplement to treat a variety of illnesses. Pharmacokinetic interactions may occur when IBR interacts with SA, which influences the pharmacokinetic processes such as absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Therefore, it is obligatory to investigate the safety apprehensions of such parallel usage and to evaluate the possible impact of SA on the pharmacokinetics of IBR and propose a possible interaction mechanism in an animal model. The IBR concentration in plasma samples was determined using a validated UHPLC-MS/MS method after administration of a single oral dosage of IBR (50 mg/kg) in rats with or without SA pretreatment (40 mg/kg p.o. each day for 7 days, n = 6). The co-administration of IBR with SA displayed significant increases in Cmax ~18.77%, AUC0–T ~28.07%, MRT ~16.87%, and Kel ~24.76%, and a significant decrease in the volume of distribution Vz/F_obs ~37.66%, the rate of clearance (Cl/F) ~21.81%, and T½ ~20.43%, respectively, were observed as compared to rats that were administered IBR alone, which may result in increased bioavailability of IBR. The metabolism of IBR in the liver and intestines is significantly inhibited when SA is given, which may lead to an increase in the absorption rate of IBR. These findings need to be investigated further before they can be used in clinical practice.

Bioactive Properties, Volatile Compounds, and Sensory Profile of Sauerkraut Are Dependent on Cultivar Choice and Storage Conditions

Sauerkraut is produced by cabbage fermentation either spontaneously or by adding lactic acid bacteria. Although commercial cabbage cultivars are more desirable due to their higher yield and uniformity, traditional cultivars are highly prized for their unique sensory characteristics and suitability for fermentation. The aim of this study was to investigate the properties of sauerkrauts from traditional cabbage cultivars ('Brgujski' and 'Žminjski') compared to commercial samples, and to unravel the effects of ambient (18 °C) and cold storage (4 °C) on sauerkraut properties. Higher total phenolic contents and total antioxidant capacities measured by both FRAP and DPPH methods were observed for sauerkrauts from traditional cultivars. In total, 32 volatile compounds were identified, and differences in the volatile profile were observed among the investigated sauerkrauts. The sensory properties of traditional cabbage cultivars were on par, or even better, compared to those of commercially available sauerkraut products. The cold storage conditions characteristic of commercial environments preserved the total antioxidant capacity, the red to green color ratio (a), as well as the lightness (L) of sauerkraut compared to the ambient temperatures characteristic of domestic conditions, indicating the preservation of bioactive compounds responsible for the purple cabbage head coloration of the investigated traditional cultivars.

Red and white cabbages: An updated comparative review of bioactives, extraction methods, processing practices, and health benefits

Red and white cabbages (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. alba and rubra, respectively) are two of the most commercially valued vegetables in crucifers, well-recognized for their unique sensory and nutritive attributes in addition to a myriad of health-promoting benefits. The current review addressed the differential qualitative/quantitative phytochemical make-ups for the first time for better utilization as nutraceuticals and to identify potential uses based on the chemical makeup of both cultivars (cvs.). In addition, extraction methods are compared highlighting their advantages and/or limitations with regards to improving yield and stability of cabbage bioactives, especially glucosinolates. Besides, the review recapitulated detailed action mechanism and safety of cabbage bioactives, as well as processing technologies to further improve their effects are posed as future perspectives. White and red cabbage cvs. revealed different GLSs profile which affected by food processing, including enzymatic hydrolysis, thermal breakdown, and leaching. In addition, the red cultivar provides high quality pigment for industrial applications. Moreover, non-conventional modern extraction techniques showed promising techniques for the recovery of their bioactive constituents compared to solvent extraction. All these findings pose white and red cabbages as potential candidates for inclusion in nutraceuticals and/or to be commercialized as functional foods prepared in different culinary forms.

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata): A food with functional properties aimed to type 2 diabetes prevention and management

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing the prevalence worldwide at an alarming rate, becoming a serious public health problem that mainly affects developing countries. Functional food research is currently of great interest because it contributes to developing nutritional therapy strategies for T2DM prevention and treatment. Bioactive compounds identified in some plant foods contribute to human health by mechanisms of action that exert biological effects on metabolic pathways involved in the development of T2DM. Hence, vegetables with high bioactive compounds content may be a source of functional value for the control of T2DM. Cabbages varieties (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) such as green (GCB), white (WCB), and red (RCB) are foods consumed (raw or cooked) and cultivated in different regions of the world. Scientific evidence shows that cabbage has multi-target effects on glucose homeostatic regulation due to its high content of bioactive compounds. It has also been shown to decrease damage to organs affected by T2DM complications, such as the liver and kidney. Additionally, it could contribute as a preventive by attenuating problems underlying the development of T2DM as oxidative stress and obesity. This review highlights the functional properties of cabbage varieties involved in glucose regulation and the main mechanisms of the action exerted by their bioactive compounds. In conclusion, cabbage is a valuable food that can be employed as part of nutritional therapy or functional ingredient aimed at the prevention and treatment of T2DM.

Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Capacity of Clerodendrum paniculatum Flower Extracts against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

The aim of the presented work involves the isolation, characterization, and evaluation of hepatoprotective potential of Clerodendrum paniculatum flower extracts. For this purpose, petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, alcohol, and water extracts of C. paniculatum flower were screened for the flavonoid and phenolic content and quantified. Various antioxidant activity assays including 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging, 2,2-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and reducing ability were carried out. Of the above methods, the alcoholic extract exhibited high antioxidant potential and was selected further for the hepatoprotective evaluations. Hepatoprotective evaluation of the alcoholic extract was carried out for carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-intoxicated model systems. Enzymes associated with liver functions were estimated, and histopathological evaluations were carried out to monitor the liver architecture. Prominently, reduced levels of various associated enzymes along with increased protein content were observed when the liver specimen was pretreated with the extract. Moreover, the liver architecture was almost comparable to that of the normal control group. The column chromatographic analysis of the extract revealed 13 fractions to possess high phenolics and flavonoid contents. The best two fractions were identified for in vitro hepatoprotective evaluation in the goat liver model. Furthermore, the GC-MS analyses of the fractions were carried out followed by a library search, to identify the constituents responsible for the hepatoprotective activity which revealed the presence of four major constituents-pilocarpine, glyceric acid, pangamic acid, and gallic acid. An in vitro hepatoprotective study of the isolated fractions showed better activity compared to the whole alcoholic extract, and the results were comparable to the normal group taken as a control. The investigations with an in vitro model suggest that the isolated fraction with rich flavonoid content showed better hepatoprotective activity. GC-MS analysis of the fractions that displayed good hepatoprotective activity suggested the presence of pilocarpine, glyceric acid, pangamic acid, and gallic acid, while HPTLC analysis revealed the presence of quercetin.

Separation and Determination of Chemopreventive Phytochemicals of Flavonoids from Brassicaceae Plants

The main aim of this study was to develop a method for the isolation and determination of polyphenols-in particular, flavonoids present in various morphological parts of plants belonging to the cabbage family (Brassicaceae). Therefore, a procedure consisting of maceration, acid hydrolysis and measurement of the total antioxidant capacity of plant extracts (using DPPH assay) was conducted. Qualitative analysis was performed employing thin-layer chromatography (TLC), which was presented to be a suitable methodology for the separation and determination of chemopreventive phytochemicals from plants belonging to the cabbage family. The study involved the analysis of 25 vegetal samples, including radish, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, canola, kohlrabi, cabbage, Chinese cabbage, red cabbage, pak choi and cauliflower. In addition, selected flavonoids content in free form and bonded to glycosides was determined by using an RP-UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method.

Symmetrical Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties of Four Romanian Cruciferous Extracts

Four alcoholic extracts from Romanian Cruciferous species—cabbage, acclimatized broccoli, black radish and cauliflower—were obtained in a microwave field. The extracts showed good and symmetric antioxidant activity (0.97–1.13 mmol/L TE) and good phenolic content (1001–1632 mg GAE/L). For the HPLC method, the limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantitation (LOQ) and recovery degree were established. The small values of LOD and LOQ indicated a great fit of data. The HPLC method achieved satisfactory quantitative recoveries in the range of 96%–122%, except for the lowest sinigrin concentration (8.774 µg/mL). The presence of metals in the studied extracts falls within the allowed limits. The four Cruciferous extracts showed good and slightly asymmetric antibacterial activities against some Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including strains with known resistance to antibiotics. Moreover, greater inhibitory effects were exhibited against Gram-negative bacteria. Asymmetrically, no inhibition was observed on the fungal strains. Therefore, the present results may suggest that some alcoholic extract formulas of cabbage and black radish (presenting good antibacterial activity) might be helpful in the antimicrobial fight and could be successfully used on selected cases and strains.

Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. Alleviates Indomethacin-Induced Acute Gastric Injury by Enhancing Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity

Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. (white cabbage) is a valuable vegetable with diverse nutraceutical benefit. Present study aimed to investigate the preventive effects of B. oleracea extract (BOE) standardized by vitamin U on indomethacin (IND)-induced acute gastric injury in Sprague-Dawley rats. Pre-administration of three different doses of BOE (12.5–50 mg/kg) for 14 days significantly decreased visible ulcerative lesions in the gastric tissue. In addition, BOE alleviated IND-mediated increase in histological score with inhibiting invaded percentage of lesion and restoring mucosa thickness in peri-ulcerative region. BOE increased the gastric tissue bound to Alcian blue and inhibited the decrease in hexose, sialic acid, and collagen levels by IND, suggesting that BOE protects the gastric tissue through preserving mucus and mucosal integrity. Moreover, BOE pre-administration blocked the reduction of prostaglandin E2 and down-regulated histamine and mRNA expression related to secret gastric acid. Furthermore, BOE mitigated inflammatory responses in the gastric tissue by decreasing activity of myeloperoxidase and expression of nuclear factor-κB-dependent inflammatory genes. BOE also suppressed malondialdehyde with preventing the reduction of glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in the gastric tissue. Therefore, results from present study suggest that BOE will have a potential for preventing gastric injury.

Brassica oleracea Prevents HCl/Ethanol-Induced Gastric Damages in Mice

Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. (cabbage) is a popular vegetable with a wide range of pharmacological activities that help to promote human health. The present study investigated the beneficial effects of B. oleracea var. capitata L. extract (BOE) on HCl/ethanol (H/E)-induced gastric damages in mice. Pre-administration of BOE (25–100 mg/kg) for 7 consecutive days significantly decreased macroscopically visible lesion on the gastric mucosa induced by H/E. In addition, results from hematoxylin and eosin-stained gastric tissue showed that BOE inhibited invaded percentage of lesion and prevented the reduction in mucosal thickness in peri-ulcerative region. BOE significantly alleviated the H/E-mediated decreases in Alcian blue binding, total hexose, sialic acid, and collagen in the gastric tissue, suggesting BOE attenuates the gastric damage via preserving the integrity of gastric mucus. Moreover, BOE significantly decreased histamine level in the plasma and reduced mRNA levels associated with secreting gastric acid. Furthermore, BOE inhibited myeloperoxidase activity and suppressed nuclear factor-κB mRNA and its dependent inflammatory genes expression induced by H/E. BOE also strengthened antioxidant enzyme activity, with a mitigating H/E-mediated increase in malondialdehyde level of the gastric tissue. Thus, these results suggest that BOE has the potential to protect the gastric tissue via inhibiting gastric acid secretion, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

Polygonum minus essential oil modulates cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity through inflammatory and apoptotic pathways

Oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis are thought as primary mediators of cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity. The objective of this study was to determine the protective effect of Polygonum minus essential oil in cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity. A total of forty-two male rats were randomly divided into seven groups: control, cisplatin, β-caryophyllene 150 mg/kg (BCP), PmEO 100 mg/kg + cisplatin (PmEO100CP), PmEO 200 mg/kg + cisplatin (PmEO200CP), PmEO 400 mg/kg + cisplatin (PmEO400CP) and PmEO 400 mg/kg (PmEO400). Rats in the BCP, PmEO100CP, PmEO200CP, PmEO400CP and PmEO400 group received respective treatment orally for 14 consecutive days prior to cisplatin injection. All animals except for those in the control group and PmEO400 were administered with a single dose of cisplatin (10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally on day 15 and all animals were sacrificed on day 18. PmEO100CP pretreatment protected against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity by decreasing CYP2E1 and indicators of oxidative stress including malondialdehyde, 8-OHdG and protein carbonyl which was accompanied by increased antioxidant status (glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase) as compared to cisplatin group. PmEO100CP pretreatment also modulated changes in liver inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10). PmEO100CP administration also notably reduced cisplatin-induced apoptosis significantly as compared to cisplatin group. In conclusion, our results suggested that P. minus essential oil at a dose of 100 mg/kg may protect against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity possibly via inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis.

Dietary chia seeds (Salvia hispanica) improve acute dyslipidemia and steatohepatitis in rats

Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) are rich in omega fatty acids. Dyslipidemia and steatohepatitis are diseases that require effective treatments in obese and non-obese patients. The aim was to evaluate the effect of chia intake on acute tyloxapol (TI)-induced dyslipidemia, on acute carbon tetrachloride (TC)-induced steatohepatitis, and on mixed damage (TC+TI) in non-obese rats. Four experimental groups were fed for 4 weeks a diet with established rodent food (DE), and four groups were fed a diet with 15% added chia (DC). Plasma samples were analyzed for total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, biochemical liver damage markers, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Liver samples were used to quantify glycogen, catalase, lipid peroxidation, and TNF-α. A histopathological analysis was performed. DC intake partially or totally prevented steatohepatitis, and reduced lipids in the dyslipidemic groups. The hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of chia may be correlated to its high content of α-linolenic acid (omega-3) and phenolics. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Metabolic syndrome is associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which are currently the most common causes of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. Dyslipidemia is a significant risk factor for NAFLD and NASH. Non-obese patients may have NAFLD or NASH. Metabolic syndrome and dyslipidemia are more strongly associated with NAFLD in non-obese than in obese patients. This is the first study evaluating the hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of chia seed intake on acute dyslipidemia and/or steatohepatitis caused by the individual or combined administration of the inducers tyloxapol and carbon tetrachloride, respectively, in non-obese rats. The pharmacological effects of dietary chia are correlated to its high content of omega-3 and omega-6 (1:1), protein, dietary fiber, and phenolics. The results suggest that inclusion of chia in diets of non-obese patients with dyslipidemia and/or NAFLD/NASH may improve their health state and preventing cirrhosis or HCC.

Influence of saliva on individual in-mouth aroma release from raw cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra L.) and links to perception

Raw or minimally processed vegetables are popular for health reasons and for their unique textural and flavor attributes. While many aroma volatiles are produced in situ when plant tissues are mechanically disrupted, enzymes expressed in bacteria in oral microbiota such as cysteine-β-lyase (EC 4.4.1.13) may also contribute to aroma formation in-mouth during consumption. Interactions between raw cabbage and fresh human saliva (n = 21) were measured ex vivo by real-time monitoring of sulfur volatile production by proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS). Inter-individual differences in the concentration of sulfur volatiles from the breakdown of S-methyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide (SMCSO) in fresh cabbage by saliva were characterized and a 10-fold difference in the extent of sulfur volatile production was measured across individuals. The overall intensity and garlic odor of raw cabbage was positively correlated with the concentration of sulfur volatiles after incubation with fresh human saliva. A buildup of SMSCO-derived sulfur volatiles in vivo, over twenty repeated mouthfuls was demonstrated, indicating that these reactions can affect sensory perception within the timescale of eating. These findings show the perceived odor experienced when eating cabbage differs, thus resulting in a unique flavor experience between individuals.

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) Protects against H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress by Preventing Mitochondrial Dysfunction in H9c2 Cardiomyoblasts

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the progression of cardiac diseases, including ischemia/reperfusion injury, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. Growing evidence indicates that cabbage has various pharmacological properties against a wide range of diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, hepatic diseases, and cancer. However, little is known about its effects on oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes or the underlying mechanisms. Therefore, the present study examined the effects of cabbage extract on oxidative stress in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts. Cell viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, apoptosis, mitochondrial functions, and expression levels of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) proteins were analyzed to elucidate the antioxidant effects of this extract. Cabbage extract protected against H₂O₂-induced cell death and did not elicit any cytotoxic effects. In addition, cabbage extract suppressed ROS production and increased expression of antioxidant proteins (SOD-1, catalase, and GPx). Cabbage extract also inhibited apoptotic responses and activation of MAPK proteins (ERK1/2, JNK, and p-38) in oxidative stress-exposed H9c2 cells. Notably, cabbage extract preserved mitochondrial functions upon oxidative stress. These findings reveal that cabbage extract protects against oxidative stress and suggest that it can be used as an alternative therapeutic strategy to prevent the oxidative stress in the heart.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Nonpolar Extracts from Inflorescences of Thistles Cirsium vulgare and Cirsium ehrenbergii on Acute Liver Damage in Rat

BACKGROUND

Drugs for the treatment of liver diseases are scarce and not effective enough. Some species of the genus Cirsium possess hepatoprotective activity. There are no studies on the hepatoprotective effects of nonpolar extracts from inflorescences of thistles Cirsium vulgare and Cirsium ehrenbergii, and there are few reports on their chemical composition.

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to obtain the hexane extract from inflorescences of both thistles and to identify preliminarily their main chemical component, and to evaluate the hepatoprotective properties of the extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hexane extracts were obtained using a Soxhlet apparatus. The chemical composition was analyzed using infrared spectra and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Two doses (250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) of both extracts were administered to assess their hepatoprotective effect on acute carbon tetrachloride (TC)-induced liver damage in rats using biochemical markers of necrosis, cholestasis, functionality, oxidative stress, and histological analysis.

RESULTS

Extracts were shown to have a very similar chemical profile. Their major constituent seems to be lupeol acetate. The two doses of both extracts demonstrated comparable hepatoprotective properties because they significantly diminished all the liver injury indicators (P < 0.05) and were corroborated using histopathology.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study on the hepatoprotective effects of nonpolar extracts from inflorescences of thistles C. vulgare and C. ehrenbergii. Hexane extracts administration totally prevented the acute TC-induced liver damage. The preliminary chemical analysis strongly suggests the lupeol acetate as their major constituent. Lupeol and its derivatives have been previously reported as antiinflammatory and hepatoprotective agents.

SUMMARY

Hexane extracts of both thistles kept normal liver functionality and glycogen store in carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver damageHexane extracts of both thistles showed anti-necrotic and anti-cholestatic effects, also diminished the lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide levels on the carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver damageThe two doses of hexane extracts administered (250 and 500 mg/kg) prevented the liver injury in a very similar extentBoth nonpolar extracts are chemically very similar and their main compound seems to be lupeol acetate. Abbreviations used: TC: Carbon tetrachloride; FT-IR: Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy; GC-MS: Gas chromatography - Mass spectrometry; V: Vehicle; E: Extract; Ecv: Extract of Cirsium vulgare; Ece: Extract of Cirsium ehrenbergii; AP: Alkaline phosphatase; GGTP: γ-Glutamyl transpeptidase; ALT: Alanine aminotransferase; DB: Direct bilirubin; TB: Total bilirubin; LP: Lipid peroxidation; MDA: Malondialdehyde; NO: Nitric oxide; TNF-α: Tumor necrosis factor-α.