Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of a Traditional Herb, Strobilanthes Cusia (Nees) Kuntze

The present investigation aimed to determine the effectiveness of bioactive components extracted from Hom herbs (Strobilanthes cusia (Nees) Kuntze) using the solvent-free microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) method. The obtained bioactive components were analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC) and active ingredient content. The Hom extracts were examined for antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and anticancer activities. The comparative analysis of extraction methods MAE was studied by using different solvents such as ethanol (EtOH), 50% ethanol (50EtOH) and distilled water (DW). The results obtained by the MAE method with DW as solvent show the TPC of 104.41±1.36 mg GAE/g crude and tryptanthrin 0.1138±0.0014 mg/g crude and indigo 0.0622±0.0015 mg/g crude. Comparatively, values ​​detected in the 50% EtOH extract were not significantly different at the 95% confidence level. At the same time, levels of indirubin were detected at levels equivalent to that of ethanol extracts. The DW extract from MAE had an IC50 value against the DPPH scavenging assay of 0.1927±0.0756 mg/ml, comparable to the test results of extracts of ethanol and 50% ethanol. The bioactive extracted using the MAE with water as solvent had minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and could suppress infection at 10 mg/disc. It was also observed that the extracts from the conventional extraction technique using ethanol as the solvent continued to be highly effective against Bacillus cereus even after employing the EtOH or 50% EtOH. Hom extract's MIC value representing inhibiting B. cereus was 0.625 mg/disc. Still, EtOH-extracted Hom demonstrated the highest cytotoxicity against 16HBEo- by reducing cell survival rate by less than 50% while the others did not. Interestingly, Hom that had been extracted using 50EtOH and DW with MAE had an anticancer impact on A549 by reducing the survival rate in a dose-dependent manner.

Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vitro study on Aspilia pluriseta against prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Current prostate cancer treatments are associated with life-threatening side effects, prompting the search for effective and safer alternatives. Aspilia pluriseta Schweinf. ex Engl. has previously shown anticancer activity in lung and liver cancer cell lines. This study investigated its potential for prostate cancer.

METHODS

A crude extract of A. pluriseta root was prepared using dichloromethane/methanol (1:1 v/v) and partitioned into hexane, ethyl acetate, and water fractions. The MTT assay was used to assess the antiproliferative activity of the fractions. The active fractions were tested at 6.25-200 µg/ml on human prostate cancer DU-145 cells and non-cancerous Vero E6 cells. Qualitative phytochemical and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses were conducted to identify chemical compounds. Network pharmacology was employed to predict molecular targets and modes of action of the identified chemical compounds, with subsequent validation through molecular docking and real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Active extracts included crude dichloromethane/methanol, hexane, and ethyl acetate fractions, inhibiting DU-145 cell proliferation with IC50 values of 16.94, 20.06, and 24.14 µg/ml, respectively. Selectivity indices were determined to be 6.04 (crude), 3.62 (hexane), and 6.68 (ethyl acetate). Identified phytochemicals comprised phenols, terpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, sterols, and saponins. GC-MS analysis revealed seventy-nine (79) compounds, with seven (7) meeting ideal drug candidate parameters; their hub gene targets included MAPK3, MAPK1, IL6, TP53, ESR1, PTGS2, MMP9, MDM2, AR, and MAP2K1, implicating regulation of PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and p53 signaling pathways as potential modes of action. Core compounds such as 1-heneicosanol, lanosterol, andrographolide, and retinoic acid exhibited strong binding activities, particularly lanosterol with MAPK21 (-9.7 kcal/mol), ESR1 (-8.9 kcal/mol), and MAPK3 (-8.8 kcal/mol). Treatment with A. pluriseta downregulated AR expression and upregulated p53, while also downregulating CDK1 and BCL-2 and upregulating caspase-3.

CONCLUSIONS

A. pluriseta extracts inhibited DU-145 cell growth without causing cellular toxicity, suggesting great potential for development as an anti-prostate cancer agent. However, further in vitro and in vivo experiments are recommended.

Biosynthesized MgONPs using Syzygium cumini seed extract: Characterization, In vitro anti-oxidant and anti-microbial activity

The present study investigates S. cumini seed extracts which are considered as a promising and valuable source of bioactive compounds were prepared using different solvents such as methanol, ethanol, petroleum ether, acetone, chloroform, and diethyl ether. Among these solvents, methanol exhibited the highest extraction with a yield of 42 %. HPLC analysis revealed the highest concentration of quercetin flavonoids (49.62 mg/gm) in the methanolic S. cumini seed extract. Thus, the current work deals with the MgONPs synthesis through a biological approach using different S. cumini seed extracts. In vitro anti-oxidant properties were evaluated, which showed an IC50 value of 22.46 μg/mL for MgONPs synthesized from methanolic extract, surpassing the anti-oxidant potency of ascorbic acid by threefold. By leveraging the rich repository of bioactive compounds found within S. cumini seed extract, this study presents a novel approach to MgONPs synthesis. Exploring the symbiotic relationship between S. cumini seed extract and MgONPs, this research elucidates the pivotal role of bioactive compounds in guiding the formation and properties of nanostructures. Further anti-microbial studies on MgONPs from methanolic S. cumini seed extract were conducted against four different bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and S. typhimurium), revealing potent anti-microbial activity with 5.3 mm of inhibition for 100 µl against S. typhimurium. These findings suggest that S. cumini is a source of bioactive compounds responsible for the successful synthesis of MgONPs. Characterization studies of MgONPs were also carried out using UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, XRD, DSC and HPLC.

Ratanjot (Alkanna tinctoria L.) Root Extract, Rich in Antioxidants, Exhibits Strong Antimicrobial Activity against Foodborne Pathogens and Is a Potential Food Preservative

Natural and sustainable plant-based antioxidants and antimicrobials are highly desirable for improving food quality and safety. The present investigation assessed the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of active components from Alkanna tinctoria L. (herb) roots, also known as Ratanjot root. Two methods were used to extract active components: microwave-assisted hot water (MAHW) and ethanolic extraction. MAHW extract yielded 6.29%, while the ethanol extract yielded 18.27%, suggesting superior Ratanjot root extract powder (RRP) solubility in ethanol over water. The ethanol extract showed significantly higher antioxidant activity than the MAHW extract. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analysis revealed three major phenolic compounds: butanoic acid, 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-; arnebin 7, and diisooctyl pthalate. The color attributes (L*, a*, b*, H°ab, C*ab) for the ethanolic and MAHW extracts revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in all the above parameters for both types of extracts, except for yellowness (b*) and chroma (C*ab) values. The ethanol extract exhibited antimicrobial activity against 14 foodborne bacteria, with a significantly higher inhibitory effect against Gram-positive bacteria (Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus) than the Gram-negative bacteria (Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium and Escherichia coli). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were both 25 mg/mL for the Gram-negative bacteria, while the MIC and MBC concentrations varied for Gram-positive bacteria (0.049-0.098 mg/mL and 0.098-0.195 mg/mL) and the antimicrobial effect was bactericidal. The antimicrobial activities of RRP extract remained stable under broad temperature (37-100 °C) and pH (2-6) conditions, as well as during refrigerated storage for 30 days. Application of RRP at 1% (10 mg/g) and 2.5% (25 mg/g) levels in a cooked chicken meatball model system prevented lipid oxidation and improved sensory attributes and retarded microbial growth during refrigerated (4 °C) storage for 20 days. Furthermore, the RRP extract was non-toxic when tested with sheep erythrocytes and did not inhibit the growth of probiotics, Lacticaseibacillus casei, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. In conclusion, the study suggests that RRP possesses excellent antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, thus making it suitable for food preservation.

Identification of plant based potential antifungal compounds against BMK-1 protein of Bipolaris oryzae using molecular docking approach

Rice brown spot is an important disease of rice worldwide that inflicts substantial yield losses. The antimicrobial potential of methanol, acetone and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) extracts of different medicinal plants, viz., Syzygium aromaticum, Saussurea costus, Acorus calamus, Bergenia ciliate, Geranium pratense, Mentha longifolia, Inula racemosa, Podophyllum hexandrum, Heracleum candicans and Picrorhiza kurroa, against the brown spot pathogen Bipolaris oryzae in vitro was evaluated via mycelial growth inhibition and spore germination inhibition assays. Among the plant extracts tested, 100% mycelial inhibition was observed for the methanol extract of Syzygium aromaticum at all three concentrations (2000 ppm, 3000 ppm and 4000 ppm), followed by the methanol extract of Inula racemosa (90.33%) at 4000 ppm. A maximum conidial germination inhibition of 83.54% was exhibited by the Heracleum candicans leaf extract. Phytochemical profiling of Syzygium aromaticum and Inula racemosa through liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HR-LCMS) revealed the presence of several compounds, such as eugenol, ursolic acid, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and noscapine. A molecular docking approach was used to identify key inhibitory molecules against B. oryzae. Among the compounds detected in S. aromaticum and Inula racemosa, ursolic acid and noscapine were found to have the greatest binding affinity for the Big Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase (BMK-1) enzyme present in B. oryzae. In conclusion, S. aromaticum and Inula racemosa are potent compounds that could serve as lead compounds for drug discovery in the future.

Optimizing the extract yield of bioactive compounds in Valeriana officinalis root: a D-optimal design

It is estimated that 80% of all synthetic drugs are derived from medicinal plants, and nowadays, many synthetic drugs are derived from medicinal plants. Valeriana officinalis can treat many diseases of the nervous system. A crucial aspect of valerian extract is that it inhibits the proliferation of breast cancer cells. To optimize the yield of bioactive compounds in the V. officinalis root extraction, a response surface methodology-based D-optimal design was used. To fulfill this aim, the effects of various factors such as solvent type and concentration, mixing temperature, ultrasound time, and drying method were examined. The optimal conditions for solvent percentages, mixing temperature, ultrasound time, solvent type, and drying methods were determined to be 94.88%, 25 °C, 48.95 min, methanol, and microwave, respectively, with a desirability of 0.921. The predicted valerenic acid, total phenols, total flavonoids, and antioxidant activity in V. officinalis extract were 1.19 (mg/g DW), 8.22 (mg/g DW), 5.27 (mg/g DW), and 92.64%, respectively. In optimal conditions, the extracted amounts of valerenic acid, total phenols, total flavonoids, and antioxidant activity were 2.07 mg/g DW, 7.96 mg/g DW, 5.52 mg/g DW, and 78.68%, respectively, which were consistent with the model predicted amounts (based on 95% prediction interval). This study could be useful as a model for demonstrating the efficacy of microwave drying to maximize the biochemical content of V. officinalis, as well as the antioxidant activity of the root extracts of V. officinalis on industrial scale.

Uncovering Potentially Therapeutic Phytochemicals, In silico Analysis, and Biological Assessment of South-Chinese Red Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus)

Red dragon fruit is gaining popularity globally due to its nutritional value and bioactive components. The study aimed to assess the phytochemical, nutritional composition, antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxic properties of extracts from the South Chinese red dragon fruit peel, flesh, and seeds. Extract fractions with increasing polarity (ethyl acetate Collapse

Key Words

• In silico
• Antibacterial
• Antioxidant
• Cytotoxicity
• LC-MS/MS
• Red dragon-fruit

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MESH Headings

• Humans
• Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
• Anti-Bacterial Agents/analysis
• Antioxidants/pharmacology
• Antioxidants/analysis
• Cactaceae/chemistry
• Computer Simulation
• Fruit/chemistry
• HaCaT Cells
• Microbial Sensitivity Tests
• Nutritive Value
• Phytochemicals/pharmacology
• Phytochemicals/analysis
• Plant Extracts/pharmacology
• Plant Extracts/chemistry
• Quercetin/analysis
• Quercetin/pharmacology
• Seeds/chemistry
• Tandem Mass Spectrometry

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Grants Collapse

Affiliation(s)

Ali Asghar School of Food and Drug, Shenzhen Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
Lin Huichun Shenzhen Institute of Quality and Safety Inspection Research, Shenzhen, 518055, China
Qiao Fang School of Food and Drug, Shenzhen Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
Naveed Ahmad Khan Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34010, Turkey
Muhammad Shahid Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia
Wang Rui Shenzhen Institute of Quality and Safety Inspection Research, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
Wang Jun School of Food and Drug, Shenzhen Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, 518055, China.

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Exploring the Antibacterial Potential and Underlying Mechanisms of Prunella vulgaris L. on Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Prunella vulgaris L. (PV) is a widely distributed plant species, known for its versatile applications in both traditional and contemporary medicine, as well as in functional food development. Despite its broad-spectrum antimicrobial utility, the specific mechanism of antibacterial action remains elusive. To fill this knowledge gap, the present study investigated the antibacterial properties of PV extracts against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and assessed their mechanistic impact on bacterial cells and cellular functions. The aqueous extract of PV demonstrated greater anti-MRSA activity compared to the ethanolic and methanolic extracts. UPLC-ESI-MS/MS tentatively identified 28 phytochemical components in the aqueous extract of PV. Exposure to an aqueous extract at ½ MIC and MIC for 5 h resulted in a significant release of intracellular nucleic acid (up to 6-fold) and protein (up to 10-fold) into the extracellular environment. Additionally, this treatment caused a notable decline in the activity of several crucial enzymes, including a 41.51% reduction in alkaline phosphatase (AKP), a 45.71% decrease in adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase), and a 48.99% drop in superoxide dismutase (SOD). Furthermore, there was a decrease of 24.17% at ½ MIC and 27.17% at MIC in tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle activity and energy transfer. Collectively, these findings indicate that the anti-MRSA properties of PV may stem from its ability to disrupt membrane and cell wall integrity, interfere with enzymatic activity, and impede bacterial cell metabolism and the transmission of information and energy that is essential for bacterial growth, ultimately resulting in bacterial apoptosis. The diverse range of characteristics exhibited by PV positions it as a promising antimicrobial agent with broad applications for enhancing health and improving food safety and quality.

D-optimal Design Optimization of Solvent Mixture for Flavonoid Extraction from Phalaenopsis Leaves with Antioxidant Activity

Aims

This study aimed to optimize the extraction of flavonoids and antioxidants from Phalaenopsis leaves by using solvent mixtures.

Method

The total flavonoid content (TFC) and antioxidant activity were evaluated using the colorimetric method and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), respectively. Maceration extracts from fresh leaves were used for the analysis. The study used the Design Expert 13.0 program to optimize the solvents (water, acetone, and methanol) and their combined ratio.

Result

The results showed that 100% acetone was the best solvent for both responses, with a desirability value of 0.884, TFC of 0.434 mg QE/g fresh weight (FW) and FRAP of 713.53 μmol TE/g FW. Screening of the most potent Phalaenopsis genotypes for obtaining the most active leaf extract showed that P. amboinensis and P. pantherina were the best genotypes for TFC (0.786-0.797 mg QE/g FW) and FRAP activity (862.25-891.48 μmol TE/g FW).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates an easy and useful way to obtain flavonoids and antioxidants from Phalaenopsis materials that can be used in the flower-based industry to make new functional ingredients.

Anti-microbial and anti-cancer efficacy of acetone extract of Rosa chinensis against resistant strain and lung cancer cell line

BACKGROUND

Screening of herbal plants for various therapeutic properties is the hour as it shows promising activity. Scientific evidence of the pharmacological activity of the plant strengthens the traditional application of plants.

METHODS

Rose flowers (Rosa chinensis) were procured and grounded into a coarse powder. The DNA was isolated from rose flower and molecular identification was performed by rbcL-BF and rbcL-724R primers. Antibacterial activity was evaluated by using disc and agar diffusion methods and the anti-cancer effect of the rose flower extract (RE) was examined using MTT assay in lung cancer cell line. The mechanism of cell death induced by RE was qualitatively measured using Acridine orange/Ethidium bromide staining and Hoechst staining. GC-MS analysis was performed using GC-MS-5975C.

RESULT

The RE showed potent antimicrobial activity against various ATCC cultures. The rose extract strongly inhibits the growth of ESBL resistant organism along with inhibition of biofilm formation in the ESBL resistant organism. The extract caused apoptotic and necrotic cell death in lung cancer cells. GC-MS analysis demonstrated the presence of several biologically active compounds such as Clindamycin, Phytol, Octanoic acid, and Stigmasterol which might be the reason for the therapeutic properties of the plant.

CONCLUSION

This study shows the antimicrobial and biofilm inhibition activity against the clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumonia. The study shows the cytotoxic and apoptotic activity in A549 cancer cell line. Thus, the plant may act as a potent antimicrobial drug against resistant strains.

Bioactivity-Guided Isolation and Antihypertensive Activity of Citrullus colocynthis Polyphenols in Rats with Genetic Model of Hypertension

Background and Objectives: Citrullus colocynthis belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family and is a wild medicinal plant used in folk literature to treat various diseases. The purpose of the current study was to explore the antihypertensive and antioxidant potentials of Citrullus colocynthis (CC) polyphenol-rich fractions using a spontaneous hypertensive rat (SHR) model. Materials and Methods: The concentrated aqueous ethanol extract of CC fruit was successively fractioned using solvents of increasing polarity, i.e., hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol. The obtained extracts were analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and total flavonol content (TOF). Moreover, the CC extracts were further evaluated for radical scavenging capacity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays and antioxidant activity using inhibition of linoleic acid peroxidation and determination of reducing potential protocols. The phytochemical components were characterized by HPLC-MWD-ESI-MS in positive ionization mode. Results: The results showed that ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) exhibited a higher content of phenolic compounds in term of TPC (289 mg/g), TFC (7.6 mg/g) and TOF (35.7 mg/g). EAF showed higher antioxidant and DPPH and ABTS scavenging activities with SC50 values of 6.2 and 79.5 µg/mL, respectively. LCMS analysis revealed that twenty polyphenol compounds were identified in the EAF, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, mainly myricetin and quercetin derivatives. The in vivo antihypertensive activity of EAF of CC on SHR revealed that it significantly decreased the mean arterial pressure (MAP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressures (DBP) and pulse pressure (PP) as compared to normal and hypertensive control groups. Moreover, EAF of CC significantly reduced the oxidative stress in the animals in a dose-dependent manner by normalizing the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NOx) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Furthermore, the treatment groups, especially the 500 mg of EAF per kg body weight (EA-500) group, significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved the electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern and pulse wave velocity (PWV). Conclusion: It was concluded that the EAF of CC is a rich source of polyphenols and showed the best antioxidant activity and antihypertensive potential in SHR.

Differentiation of Medicinal Plants According to Solvents, Processing, Origin, and Season by Means of Multivariate Analysis of Spectroscopic and Liquid Chromatography Data

Effects of processing and extraction solvents on antioxidant properties and other characteristics were evaluated for ten medicinal plant species originating from two different localities and two production years. A combination of spectroscopic and liquid chromatography techniques possessed data for multivariate statistics. Water, 50% (v/v) ethanol, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were compared to select the most suitable solvent for the isolation of functional components from the frozen/dried medicinal plants. DMSO and 50% (v/v) ethanol were evaluated as more efficient for phenolic compounds and colorants extraction, while water was more useful for element extraction. Drying and extraction of herbs with 50% (v/v) ethanol was the most appropriate treatment to ensure a high yield of most compounds. The satisfactory differentiation of herbs (61.8-100%) confirmed the significant effect of the processing, geographical, and seasonal factors on target functional component concentrations. Total phenolic and total flavonoid compounds content, total antioxidant activity expressed as TAA, yellowness, chroma, and browning index were identified as the most important markers for medicinal plant differentiation.

Antioxidant properties and cytotoxic effects of selected edible plants in Southeast Asia for further use as phytogenic antioxidant additives

Excessive free radicals in human and animal bodies can cause oxidative stress (OS) which damages cells and tissues. Plant materials with high antioxidant potential would resolve the OS problem. Thus, this study proposed to investigate the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC), antioxidant capacities and cytotoxicity in 17 edible plant materials from herbs, fruits, vegetables and plant by-products available in Southeast Asia for future use in the food or feed industry. Among 17 plant materials, Syzygium aromaticum (clove), Camellia sinensi (green tea pomace) from the beverage industry and Persicaria odorata (Vietnamese coriander) showed a prominent amount of TPC and TFC. These three plants and their combination (1:1:1 ratio, v:v:v) also possessed a remarkable antioxidant function in terms of DPPH, ABTS and FRAP, as well as showing a strong ROS inhibition through HepG2 cells. The cytotoxicity test of the crude extract of clove, green tea pomace and Vietnamese coriander, or their combination can be used between 0.032 and 0.255, 0.011 to 0.088, 0.022 to 0.178 and 0.021 to 0.346 mg/mL, respectively, without impeding cell viability. A combined mixture of clove, green tea pomace and Vietnamese coriander revealed the synergistic properties of antioxidants and cell safety. This indicates that there is a potential use of various antioxidant bioactive compounds in plant materials tested for use as phytogenic antioxidant additives.

Current Landscape of Methods to Evaluate Antimicrobial Activity of Natural Extracts

Natural extracts have been and continue to be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, from infectious diseases to cancer, based on their convenience and therapeutic potential. Natural products derived from microbes, plants, and animals offer a broad variety of molecules and chemical compounds. Natural products are not only one of the most important sources for innovative drug development for animal and human health, but they are also an inspiration for synthetic biology and chemistry scientists towards the discovery of new bioactive compounds and pharmaceuticals. This is particularly relevant in the current context, where antimicrobial resistance has risen as a global health problem. Thus, efforts are being directed toward studying natural compounds' chemical composition and bioactive potential to generate drugs with better efficacy and lower toxicity than existing molecules. Currently, a wide range of methodologies are used to analyze the in vitro activity of natural extracts to determine their suitability as antimicrobial agents. Despite traditional technologies being the most employed, technological advances have contributed to the implementation of methods able to circumvent issues related to analysis capacity, time, sensitivity, and reproducibility. This review produces an updated analysis of the conventional and current methods to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of natural compounds.

Cytotoxic, apoptotic activities and chemical profiling of dimorphic forms of Egyptian halophyte Cakile maritima scop

Cakile maritima ssp. aegyptiaca (Wild.) Nyman is growing with dimorphic leaf forms (entire or pinnatifid lamina) along the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. The cytotoxic activities of dried shoot systems of the two morphological forms were evaluated by testing and comparing the effects of ethanolic and aqueous extracts on the viability of five human cell lines. GC-MS analysis was performed to identify the bioactive and anticancer compounds present in the most active extracts. MTT assay indicated that both aqueous and ethanolic extracts have selective cytotoxic activities against cancer cell lines with no inhibitory activities against normal Wi38 or Vero cell lines. The underlying mechanism of cytotoxicity involved the induction of G2/M phase arrest in targeted cells MCF-7 and HCT-116 associated with inducing apoptosis in both cell lines, as indicated by Annexin-V assay. Apoptosis investigation in MCF-7 and HCT-116 cells treated with ethanolic extracts, was further investigated through RT-PCR, which exhibited elevation of proapoptotic genes of P53, BAX, Capase-3,6,7,8,9, and downregulation of antiapoptotic gene (BCL-2) upon treatment. The GC-MS analysis of ethanolic extracts of pinnatifid and entire forms revealed the existence of 18 and 13 compounds, respectively, with eleven compounds that were detected in pinnatifid form only and seven compounds were identified exclusively in the entire form. Molecular Docking study revealed that the identified compounds exhibited good binding affinity towards BCL-2 inhibition, and this agreed with the suggested apoptotic mechanism. To the best of authors' knowledge, this is the first scientific evidence underline the variability in the chemical composition associated with variable anticancer activities of dimorphic forms of C. maritima.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

The Addition of Opuntia ficus-indica Ethanolic Extract to a Skimmed Milk-Based Extender Impacts Ram Sperm Quality

Recently, researchers have focused on the use of natural antioxidants to improve semen quality as a key element for successful artificial insemination. In this context, the first aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant activity and composition (minerals, vitamins, and sugars) of Opuntia ficus-indica cladode ethanolic extract (ETHEX). A further purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of ETHEX supplementation on the quality of liquid ram semen extended with skim milk (SM) at 5°C. The antioxidant activity of ETHEX was studied using free radical 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) assay. The mineral composition and the sugar and vitamin contents of ETHEX were determined using an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and HPLC-DAD-RID analytical instruments. As a second part, semen was collected from five Boujaâd rams with an artificial vagina. The ejaculates with more than 70% motility were pooled, extended with skim milk (SM) extender without (control) or supplemented with 1-8% of ETHEX (37°C; 0.8 × 109 sperm/mL). Sperm quality parameters were assessed at 8, 24, 48, and 72 h. The results showed that ETHEX had a higher antioxidant activity compared to those of ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Furthermore, ETHEX contains a considerable amount of minerals, vitamins, and sugars. The inclusion of 1 or 2% ETHEX in SM increased the sperm motility, viability, and membrane integrity and decreased the abnormality of spontaneous and catalyzed lipids peroxidation (p < 0.05) up to 72 h. In addition, semen diluted with 1 and 2% ETHEX decreased the level of DNA fragmentation compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the ETHEX could be recommended to improve the quality of liquid ram spermatozoa. However, its effects on artificial insemination should be further studied.

Comparative evaluation of solvent extracts of Azanza garckeana fruit pulp on hormonal profiles, spermiogram and antioxidant activities in rabbit bucks

The study investigated the comparative influence of different extraction solvents on spermiogram, hormonal profiles and antioxidant activities in rabbit bucks. Adult New Zealand White rabbit bucks (n=18), with average live weight of 1.2±0.03 kg and aged 10-18 mo were fed ad libitum on a commercial diet. They were administered five different Azanza garckeana (AG) fruit pulp extracts at 500 mg/kg via oral gavage, comprising control group (Con), crude (AG Cr), methanol (AG M), n-hexane (AG H), ethyl acetate (AG E)and aqueous (AG AQ) for four weeks. The extracts improved the spermiogram in rabbit bucks administered methanol (AG M) and the reaction time was significantly (P<0.05) lower in AG E group when compared to other groups. The ejaculate volume, sperm motility, pH and sperm concentration were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the AG M group when compared to the other groups. There was a significant (P<0.05) increase in concentrations of blood testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinising hormone in methanol extract group (AG M). While the glutathione and malondialdehyde concentrations were (P<0.05) lower, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the groups administered methanol extract (AG M). It was concluded that AG M extracts of AG pulp elicited the best response in spermiogram, hormonal concentrations and antioxidant activities in New Zealand White rabbit bucks. Its use as the extraction solvent is recommended.

Bioprospecting of Helichrysum Species: Chemical Profile, Phytochemical Properties, and Antifungal Efficacy against Botrytis cinerea

Variation in plant species and extraction solvents play a crucial role in the recovery of their bioactive compounds and antifungal efficacy. Thus, in this study, a comparative investigation was carried out using extraction solvents: 70% acetone and 95% ethanol to obtain crude aqueous extracts from Helichrysum odoratissimum and H. patulum. Crude aqueous extracts were screened using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), to gain insight into their chemical composition. Phytochemical properties (total polyphenols (TP) and radical scavenging capacity via 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)), and antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea of the crude extracts were evaluated. Fungicide (Rovral^® WP) and extraction solvents were used as controls. Variation in Helichrysum spp. and extraction solvent had influence on the chemical composition, phytochemicals, and antifungal activities. Metabolites such as γ-terpinene (≈0.1%), α-amorphene (≈0.6%) α-gurjunene (≈1.4%), β-selinene (2.2-3.2%), γ-gurjunene (≈3.3%), and methyl cinnamate (≈20%) were detected only in extracts of H. patulum. Crude extract of H. odoratissimum using 70% acetone had the highest TP (19.3 ± 0.76 g GA 100 g^-1), and DPPH capacity (13,251.5 ± 700.55 µmol Trolox g^-1) compared to H. patulum (p ≤ 0.05). Ethanolic extracts of H. patulum showed highest antifungal efficacy (≈65%) against B. cinerea (p ≤ 0.05) compared to other crude extracts. This study showed that Helichrysum spp. differ in their potential as a source for bioactive compounds and antifungal treatments/formulations.

Evaluation of the antimicrobial effects of Capsicum, Nigella sativa, Musa paradisiaca L., and Citrus limetta: A review

The extensive use of antibiotics and vaccines against microbial infections can result in long-term negative effects on humans and the environment. However, there are a number of plants that have antimicrobial effects against various disease-causing microbes such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi without negative side effects or harm to the environment. In this regard, four particular plants- Capsicum, Nigella sativa, Musa paradisiaca L., and Citrus limetta have been widely considered due to their excellent antimicrobial effect and ample availability. In this review, we discuss their antimicrobial effects due to the presence of thymoquinone, p-cymene, pinene, alkaloids, limonene, camphene, and melanin. These antimicrobial compounds disrupt the cell membrane of microbes, inhibit cellular division, and form biofilm in bacterial species, eventually reducing the number of microbes. Extraction of these compounds from the respective plants is carried out by different methods such as soxhlet, hydro-distillation, liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), pressurized liquid extraction (PLE), solid-phase extraction (SPE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), pulsed electric field (PEF), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and high-voltage electrical discharge. Suitable selection of the extraction technique highly depends upon the associated advantages and disadvantages. In order to aid future study in this field, this review paper summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of each of these approaches. Additionally, the discussion covers how antimicrobial agents destroy harmful bacteria. Thus, this review offers in-depth knowledge to researchers on the antibacterial properties of Capsicum, Nigella sativa, Musa paradisiaca L. peels, and Citrus limetta.

Inhibition of Aflatoxin B1 Synthesis in Aspergillus flavus by Mate (Ilex paraguariensis), Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) Extracts: Relation with Extract Antioxidant Capacity and Fungal Oxidative Stress Response Modulation

Plant extracts may represent an ecofriendly alternative to chemical fungicides to limit aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) contamination of foods and feeds. Mate (Ilex paraguariensis), rosemary (Romarinus officinalis) and green tea (Camellia sinensis) are well known for their beneficial properties, which are mainly related to their richness in bioactive phenolic compounds. AFB1 production is inhibited, with varying efficiency, by acetone/water extracts from these three plants. At 0.45 µg dry matter (DM)/mL of culture medium, mate and green tea extracts were able to completely inhibit AFB1 production in Aspergillus flavus, and rosemary extract completely blocked AFB1 biosynthesis at 3.6 µg DM/mL of culture medium. The anti-AFB1 capacity of the extracts correlated strongly with their phenolic content, but, surprisingly, no such correlation was evident with their antioxidative ability, which is consistent with the ineffectiveness of these extracts against fungal catalase activity. Anti-AFB1 activity correlated more strongly with the radical scavenging capacity of the extracts. This is consistent with the modulation of SOD induced by mate and green tea in Aspergillus flavus. Finally, rutin, a phenolic compound present in the three plants tested in this work, was shown to inhibit AFB1 synthesis and may be responsible for the anti-mycotoxin effect reported herein.

Spirulina platensis Suppressed iNOS and Proinflammatory Cytokines in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced BV2 Microglia

The disease burden of neurodegenerative diseases is on the rise due to the aging population, and neuroinflammation is one of the underlying causes. Spirulina platensis is a well-known superfood with numerous reported bioactivities. However, the effect of S. platensis Universiti Malaya Algae Culture Collection 159 (UMACC 159) (a strain isolated from Israel) on proinflammatory mediators and cytokines remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to determine the anti-neuroinflammatory activity of S. platensis extracts and identify the potential bioactive compounds. S. platensis extracts (hexane, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and aqueous) were screened for phytochemical content and antioxidant activity. Ethanol extract was studied for its effect on proinflammatory mediators and cytokines in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV2 microglia. The potential bioactive compounds were identified using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometric (LC-MS) analysis. Ethanol extract had the highest flavonoid content and antioxidant and nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activity. Ethanol extract completely inhibited the production of NO via the downregulation of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and significantly reduced the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6. Emmotin A, palmitic amide, and 1-monopalmitin, which might play an important role in cell signaling, have been identified. In conclusion, S. platensis ethanol extract inhibited neuroinflammation through the downregulation of NO, TNF-α and IL-6. This preliminary study provided insight into compound(s) isolation, which could contribute to the development of precision nutrition for disease management.

In Situ Biosynthesis of Reduced Alpha Hematite (α-Fe2O3) Nanoparticles by Stevia Rebaudiana L. Leaf Extract: Insights into Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anticancer Properties

In the present study, we utilized Stevia rebaudiana L. (SRLe) extract to in situ biosynthesize nanoscale alpha hematite (α-Fe₂O₃) nanoparticles (NPs) with potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. SRLe-α-Fe₂O₃ was characterized using physiochemical analyses, including UV/Vis, FTIR, XRD, DLS, EDX, SEM, and TEM studies. Among tested solvents, CHCl₃/MeOH (2:1 v/v) SRL extract (least polar solvent) contained the highest EY, TPC, and antioxidant capacity of ~3.5%, ~75 mg GAE/g extract, and IC₅₀ = 9.87 ± 0.7 mg/mL, respectively. FTIR confirmed the engagement of coating operation to the colloidal α-Fe₂O₃ NPs. TEM, SEM, and DLS revealed that SRLe-α-Fe₂O₃ has a spherical shape, uniform size distribution with aggregation for an average size of ~18.34 nm, and ζ = −19.4 mV, forming a repulsive barrier that helped to improve stability. The synthesized nanoparticles displayed considerable antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus bacterial growth, and exhibited superior activity against the A549 lung cancer cell lines. These findings indicate that the increased availability of bioactive substances with antioxidant properties of SRLe makes it a potentially interesting material for the preparation of biologically active compounds and green synthesis of nanoparticles.

Chemical characterization, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic potentials of Swietenia mahagoni

Infectious diseases are the most important cause of death worldwide. Many of these diseases show great resistance to drugs and antibiotics with long-term use. Extracts of some medicinal plants have antimicrobial properties, which can treat and overcome these diseases. Meliaceae is a family of timber trees used extensively in treating many bacterial and fungal diseases, especially Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq. In this study, phytochemical screening, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis, and antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antitumor activities of the methanolic extract of S. mahagoni (L.) leaves were performed. Phytochemical screening exhibited the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, phenols, triterpenoids, glycosides, and tannins. GC/MS analysis exhibited 40 compounds, mainly 7-hexadecene, (Z)-, imidazole-4,5-d2, and 1-acetyl-4,4-bis[4-(3-bromopropoxy)-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl] piperidine. The antibacterial and antifungal potentials of the methanolic extract of S. mahagoni (L.) leaves was investigated using the agar well diffusion technique. Potent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Proteus vulgaris and antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Candida albicans were found. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal and fungicidal concentrations ranged from 12.5 to 25 mg/mL. Antioxidant activity was studied using the free radical scavenging assay, and the IC₅₀ value of the leaf extract was 69.9 µg/mL. Cytotoxic activity was screened using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and the IC₅₀ value was 44.2 µg/mL. These findings suggested the importance of this plant in treating some bacterial and fungal infections and cancer.

Chemical Profiling and In Vitro Antiurolithiatic Activity of Pleurolobus gangeticus (L.) J. St.- Hil. ex H. Ohashi & K. Ohashi Along with Its Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties

Pleurolobus gangeticus (L.) J. St.- Hil. ex H. Ohashi & K. Ohashi (Fabaceae) is an important medicinal plant used to treat various ailments. In this study, we report the antiurolithiatic, antioxidant, and antibacterial potential of chloroform fraction (CF) from P. gangeticus roots. For the chemical profiling, HPTLC, FT-IR, and GC-MS techniques of the CF were carried out, and phytochemical investigation was revealed that stigmasterol (45.06%) is one of the major components present in the fraction. The nucleation and aggregation assays were used to evaluate the in vitro antiurolithiatic activity at various concentration (2-10 mg/mL) of the CF. The results showed that the chloroform fraction had dose-dependent effects on Calcium Oxalate (CaOx) crystal formation. In both the assays, the maximum concentration of 10 mg/mL has shown better results. This concentration resulted significant increase in CaOx crystal nucleation along with the reduction of crystal size and the inhibition of crystal aggregation. Further, the CF showed stronger antioxidant (DPPH, NO, SOD, TRC) potential with an IC₅₀ values of 415.9327, 391.729, 275.971, and 419.14 µg/mL, respectively. The antibacterial evaluation displayed effective results in the Agar well diffusion assay against selective urinary tract infection (UTI) pathogens (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Staphylococcus aureus). A maximum zone of inhibition (ZOI) 12.33 ± 1.05 mm for K pneumonia and minimum ZOI of 8.46 ± 0.27 mm for S. aureus were obtained. Further, the ADME-PK property of the stigmasterol was investigated, and it was found to pass the Lipinski and Ghose rules, supporting the drug-likeliness. This is the first record of the antiurolithiatic potential of P. gangeticus along with antioxidant and antibacterial activities. These findings give an insight into the effective drug development and treatment for kidney stones in future.

Effects of drying methods and solvent extraction on quantification of major bioactive compounds in pomegranate peel waste using HPLC

Bioactive compound characterization is an essential step for utilizing pomegranate peel waste as food and nutraceuticals ingredients. In the present investigation, the effects of different drying methods (freeze, tray-oven, and sun) and extraction solvents such as methanol, ethanol, water, acetone, and hexane were investigated on the extraction and recovery of major bioactive compounds (ellagic acid, gallic acid, quercetin, and punicalagin) of pomegranate peel for two pomegranate varieties (i.e., Bhagwa and Ganesh) using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results indicated that the freeze dried pomegranate peel powder of both pomegranate varities potential to extraction higher amount of bioactive compounds with methanol as extraction solvent as compared to other drying methods and solvents. Freeze-dried peel powder of Bhagwa pomegranate showed a higher amount of gallic acid (32.2 mg/g), ellagic acid (13.6 mg/g), punicalagin (15.2 mg/g), and quercetin (2.5 mg/g) with methanol solvent as compared to the other extract of Bhagwa and Ganesh varieties. The basis on the results of the current study, it can be concluded that the freeze-drying method of drying pomegranate peel powder and methanol as an extraction solvent are effective to recover higher amounts of bioactive compounds that can be utilized in food and pharmaceutical sectors at commercial scale.

Optimization of the Extraction of Proanthocyanidins from Grape Seeds Using Ultrasonication-Assisted Aqueous Ethanol and Evaluation of Anti-Steatosis Activity In Vitro

Conventional extraction methods of proanthocyanidins (PAC) are based on toxic organic solvents, which can raise concerns about the use of extracts in supplemented food and nutraceuticals. Thus, a PAC extraction method was developed for grape seeds (GS) and grape seed powder using food-grade ethanol by optimizing the extraction conditions to generate the maximum yield of PAC. Extraction parameters, % ethanol, solvent: solid (s:s) ratio, sonication time, and temperature were optimized by the central composite design of the response surface method. The yields of PAC under different extraction conditions were quantified by the methylcellulose precipitable tannin assay. The final optimum conditions were 47% ethanol, 10:1 s:s ratio (v:w), 53 min sonication time, and 60 °C extraction temperature. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed the presence of catechin, procyanidin B2, oligomeric and polymeric PAC in the grape seed-proanthocyanidin extracts (GS-PAC). GS-PAC significantly reduced reactive oxygen species and lipid accumulation in the palmitic-acid-induced mouse hepatocytes (AML12) model of steatosis. About 50% of the PAC of the GS was found to be retained in the by-product of wine fermentation. Therefore, the developed ethanol-based extraction method is suitable to produce PAC-rich functional ingredients from grape by-products to be used in supplemented food and nutraceuticals.

Extraction, Chemical Characterization, In Vitro Antioxidant, and Antidiabetic Activity of Canola (Brassica napus L.) Meal

Canola (Brassica napus L.) meal is a by-product after oil extraction from canola seed and is of relatively low value. This meal may have additional value in the biotechnology, food, and pharmaceutical industries if health-promoting useful bioactive compounds can be identified. Hence, seven canola meal extracts (CMEs) were generated using different organic solvents for two genotypes. HPLC and LCMS analyses were employed for the determination of the phenolic and antioxidant activity of meal extracts, including recovery of major biological compounds. When comparing genotype-1 with genotype-2, the latter had higher antioxidant activity in acetone extract (AE). This study also indicated seven major glucosinolates in CMEs in which water (WE) appeared to be the best solvent for the recovery of glucosinolates. Higher quantities of phenolic, glucosinolate, and antioxidant were present in genotype-2 compared with genotype-1. Using HPLC-DAD and LC-MS analysis 47 compounds were detected. We could identify 32 compounds in canola meal extracts: nine glucosinolates and twenty-three phenolic derivatives. Phenolic compounds in canola meal were conjugates and derivatives of hydroxycinnamic acid (sinapic, ferulic, and caffeic acids). Among phenolics, kaempherol as conjugate with sinapic acid was found; sinapine and trans-sinapic acid were the most abundant, as well as major contributors to the antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities of canola meal extracts. Some samples exhibited mild to moderate in-vitro antidiabetic activity in a Dipeptidyl Peptidase-IV inhibition assay.

Effect of ginger extract (Zingiber officinale) as a natural antioxidant on sunflower oil oxidation

Oil oxidation is significant for acceptability, nutritional quality, and toxicity of edible oils. Antioxidant supplementation for oil is a common and fundamental strategy for improving its oxidative stability and prolonging induction time. Ginger contains natural antioxidants such as phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Ginger extracts were prepared by extraction with different solvents (methanol, ethanol, acetone and water). Ethanolic ginger extract had the highest yield (10.52%), whereas the aqueous extract had the lowest yield (8.10%). Also, the ethanolic extract was the highest in the content of phenolic and flavonoid compounds (75.17 and 19.55 mg/g, respectively), followed by methanolic extract (67.24 and 17.46 mg/g, respectively). Thus, further elaboration focused on the ethanolic extract. The scavenging ability of ginger extract was dose-dependent; it increased with the increase in ginger extract concentration. As expected, the ginger extract had lower DPPH scavenging activity than BHT (synthetic antioxidant). Free fatty acid (FFA), peroxide value (PV), conjugated dienes (CD) and thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value were used to evaluate the effect of ginger extract as a natural antioxidant on sunflower oil oxidation. The higher the concentration of ginger extract, the lower the magnitude of FFA, PV, CD, and TBA in sunflower oil. According to our findings, the level of sunflower oil supplementation with ginger extract should be below 600 mg/kg. The result of this study suggests that ginger extract can be recommended as a natural antioxidant to retard sunflower oil oxidation.

Valorization of Taiwan's Citrus depressa Hayata peels as a source of nobiletin and tangeretin using simple ultrasonic-assisted extraction

As the highest yield crop worldwide, citrus peels that possess bioactive compounds were discarded as a futile by-product. Ultrasonication with environmentally friendly solvent (50% ethanol and ddH₂O) were used in the present study to extract flavonoids from Citrus depressa Hayata peels with extraction period and fruit maturity as other variables. DPPH scavenging activity was investigated. Qualitative flavonoid content analysis was done by UV/Vis and FTIR-ATR spectra. Quantification of flavonoid using LC-MS/MS found that solvent type, fruit maturity, and ultrasonication period significantly affect the extracted flavonoid yield (p < 0.05). Extraction using 50% ethanol showed a higher yield than ddH₂O. Flavonoid content was also higher in unripe than ripe samples. Nobiletin, tangeretin, and rutin were dominant among the identified compounds in all sample treatments. Flavonoid content in Citrus depressa Hayata extract was found to negatively correlate to DPPH scavenging activity, which needs further research to identify other bioactivities of these flavonoids.

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Utilization of simple ultrasonication method with less preparation to extract flavonoids from Citrus depressa Hayata peels.

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Fruit maturity, extraction time and solvent preference significantly affect the yield of extracted flavonoid.

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Environmentally friendly solvent for extraction, deliver a comparable yield of flavonoid compounds to other methods.

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The negative correlation of extracted flavonoid to DPPH scavenging activity.

Effect of ginger extract (Zingiber officinale) as a natural antioxidant on sunflower oil oxidation

Oil oxidation is significant for acceptability, nutritional quality, and toxicity of edible oils. Antioxidant supplementation for oil is a common and fundamental strategy for improving its oxidative stability and prolonging induction time. Ginger contains natural antioxidants such as phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Ginger extracts were prepared by extraction with different solvents (methanol, ethanol, acetone and water). Ethanolic ginger extract had the highest yield (10.52%), whereas the aqueous extract had the lowest yield (8.10%). Also, the ethanolic extract was the highest in the content of phenolic and flavonoid compounds (75.17 and 19.55 mg/g, respectively), followed by methanolic extract (67.24 and 17.46 mg/g, respectively). Thus, further elaboration focused on the ethanolic extract. The scavenging ability of ginger extract was dose-dependent; it increased with the increase in ginger extract concentration. As expected, the ginger extract had lower DPPH scavenging activity than BHT (synthetic antioxidant). Free fatty acid (FFA), peroxide value (PV), conjugated dienes (CD) and thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value were used to evaluate the effect of ginger extract as a natural antioxidant on sunflower oil oxidation. The higher the concentration of ginger extract, the lower the magnitude of FFA, PV, CD, and TBA in sunflower oil. According to our findings, the level of sunflower oil supplementation with ginger extract should be below 600 mg/kg. The result of this study suggests that ginger extract can be recommended as a natural antioxidant to retard sunflower oil oxidation.

Bioaccumulation of metals, total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity of Rumex acetosella L. from tailings in Žitkovac (Kosovo & Metohija)

The aim of this study was to determine the bioaccumulation of the metals in Rumex acetosella L. collected from the tailings of abandoned mine in Žitkovac (near Kosovska Mitrovica, Kosovo and Metohija), and to establish the possibility of using those plants for medicinal purposes. Concentrations of heavy metals (Mn, Fe, Pb, Ni, Cr, Cu, Cd, Zn, Ca and Mg) in soil, roots and aboveground parts of R. acetosella were determined by wet mineralization with nitric and perchloric acid. The results of the research indicate that R. acetosella accumulates large amounts of Ni, Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, and Mn. The total phenol content, the total amount of flavonoids and the antioxidant activity of three different extracts of the root and aboveground parts of R. acetosella were determined by spectrophotometric methods. The acetone extracts contain the highest concentration of phenols and flavonoids. Ethyl acetate has proven to be a solvent that releases the least amount of phenols and flavonoids. The methanol extract of aboveground parts has the highest, while acetone root extract has the lowest antioxidant activity. Rumex acetosella can be used for medicinal purposes, but only collected from uncontaminated soil.

Stigmasterol and β-Sitosterol: Antimicrobial Compounds in the Leaves of Icacina trichantha identified by GC–MS

Background

The development of resistance to many antibiotics currently in use has necessitated the search for more effective alternatives. Plants have been used in ethnomedicine in different parts of the world to treat various diseases. Many studies on plants have confirmed their medicinal potentials and have led to the isolation and characterization of several potential drug candidates. This study investigates the leaves of Icacina trichantha for antimicrobial properties and seeks to identify the compounds responsible for the observed activities. The leaves of Icacina trichantha are used in ethnomedicine for the treatment of skin infections. In this study, a solvent-based fractionation of bioactive compounds in the leaves of Icacina trichantha was carried out using hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. The resultant extracts were screened for antimicrobial activity against six bacteria and four fungi using standard procedures. GC–MS analysis of the most active fraction was carried out.

Results

The non-polar fraction (hexane) showed better antimicrobial activity than the ethyl acetate and methanol extracts. At 200 mg/mL, the fraction showed inhibition of 28.0 ± 0.82, 23.7 ± 0.47, and 24.6 ± 0.94 against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis,, respectively. At the same concentration, the extract showed zones of inhibition of 18.0 ± 0.82 against Candida albicans and Penicillium notatum. The lowest Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC) values of 2.5 mg/mL were obtained against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis. GC–MS analysis of the hexane extract revealed 62 peaks, out of which ten peaks were successfully characterized.

Conclusions

None of the extracts screened for antibacterial and antifungal activities in this study is as potent as the standard drugs, Gentamicin and Tioconazole. The hexane extract, however, showed some activity against the microorganisms and was analyzed using GC–MS. The hexane extract contained many bioactive compounds, some of which could not be identified. Two of the identified compounds, Stigmasterol and β-Sitosterol, are known to possess antimicrobial properties. However, the unidentified compounds could also have contributed significantly to the antimicrobial activities of the extract.

Antithrombotic Study and Identification of Metabolites in Leaf Extracts of Chaya [Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (Mill.) I.M. Johnst.]

In Mexico, Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (chaya) has been used to treat cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Because CVD are the number one cause of mortality, chaya use has become a health strategy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antithrombotic activity and identify the metabolites in the most active extract. Aqueous (Aq), ethanolic (EtOH), acetonic (An), ethyl acetate (AcOEt), diethyl ether (Et₂O), and hexanic (Hx) extracts were obtained. Platelet aggregation, phospholipase A₂, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and clot lysis were evaluated. Metabolites were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). EtOH showed the greatest inhibition of platelet aggregation and phospholipase A₂. Ac had the greatest effect on PT and aPTT. AcOEt had the greatest effect on clot lysis. EtOH, with the highest potential, was analyzed by GC-MS; fatty acids and triterpenes were identified. Thus, EtOH showed greater antiplatelet activity and other extracts showed moderate activity. This is a preliminary antithrombotic study. Future research will allow the development of nutraceuticals or functional ingredients for the prevention and treatment of thrombosis.

LC-HRMS Profiling and Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, and Antibacterial Activities of Acacia catechu (L.f.) Willd

Acacia catechu (L.f.) Willd is a profoundly used traditional medicinal plant in Asia. Previous studies conducted in this plant are more confined to extract level. Even though bioassay-based studies indicated the true therapeutic potential of this plant, compound annotation was not performed extensively. This research is aimed at assessing the bioactivity of different solvent extracts of the plant followed by annotation of its phytoconstituents. Liquid chromatography equipped with high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) is deployed for the identification of secondary metabolites in various crude extracts. On activity level, its ethanolic extract showed the highest inhibition towards α-amylase and α-glucosidase with an IC₅₀ of 67.8 ± 1 μg/mL and 10.3 ± 0.1 μg/mL respectively, inspected through the substrate-based method. On the other hand, the plant extract showed an antioxidant activity of 23.76 ± 1.57 μg/mL, measured through radical scavenging activity. Similarly, ethyl acetate and aqueous extracts of A. catechu showed significant inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus with a zone of inhibition (ZoI) of 13 and 14 mm, respectively. With the LC-HRMS-based dereplication strategy, we have identified 28 secondary metabolites belonging to flavonoid and phenolic categories. Identification of these metabolites from A. catechu and its biological implication also support the community-based usage of this plant and its medicinal value.

Accelerated Solvent Extractions (ASE) of Mitragyna speciosa Korth. (Kratom) Leaves: Evaluation of Its Cytotoxicity and Antinociceptive Activity

Mitragyna speciosa Korth (kratom) is known for its psychoactive and analgesic properties. Mitragynine is the primary constituent present in kratom leaves. This study highlights the utilisation of the green accelerated solvent extraction technique to produce a better, non-toxic and antinociceptive active botanical extract of kratom. ASE M. speciosa extract had a dry yield (0.53–2.91 g) and showed a constant mitragynine content (6.53–7.19%) when extracted with organic solvents of different polarities. It only requires a shorter extraction time (5 min) and a reduced amount of solvents (less than 100 mL). A substantial amount of total phenolic (407.83 ± 2.50 GAE mg/g and flavonoids (194.00 ± 5.00 QE mg/g) were found in ASE kratom ethanol extract. The MTT test indicated that the ASE kratom ethanolic leaf extract is non-cytotoxic towards HEK-293 and HeLa Chang liver cells. In mice, ASE kratom ethanolic extract (200 mg/kg) demonstrated a better antinociceptive effect compared to methanol and ethyl acetate leaf extracts. The presence of bioactive indole alkaloids and flavonols such as mitragynine, paynantheine, quercetin, and rutin in ASE kratom ethanolic leaf extract was detected using UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS analysis supports its antinociceptive properties. ASE ethanolic leaf extract offers a better, safe, and cost-effective choice of test botanical extract for further preclinical studies.

Comparison of ultrasound and microwave assisted extraction of diosgenin from Trigonella foenum graceum seed

From the recent market trend, there is a huge demand for the bioactive compounds from various food matrices that could be capable enough to combat the emerging health effects in day-to-day life. Fenugreek is a well-known spice from ancient times for its medicinal and health benefits. In the present study, two methods of green extraction microwave (MAE) and ultrasound (UAE) assisted were studied in regard of extraction of fenugreek diosgenin. In this study, solvent type (acetone, ethanol, hexane and petroleum ether), solvent concentration (40, 60, 80 and 100%) and treatment time (1.5, 3.0, 4.5 and 6.0 min and 30, 40, 50 and 60 min for MAE and UAE method respectively) was varied to observe the effect of these parameters over extract yield and diosgenin content. The results of this study revealed that treatment time, type of solvent and its concentration and method adopted for extraction of diosgenin has significant effect. In relation with better yield extract and diosgenin content, the yield of fenugreek seed extract was 7.83% with MAE and 21.48% with UAE of fenugreek seed powder at 80% ethanol concentration at 6 and 60 min respectively. The content of diosgenin was observed in fenugreek seed powder extract was 35.50 mg/100 g in MAE and 40.37 mg/100 g in UAE with 80% ethanol concentration at 6 and 60 min respectively. The overall range of yield of fenugreek extract was varied from 1.04% to 32.48% and diosgenin content was 15.82 mg/100 g to 40.37 mg/100 g of fenugreek seed powder including both extraction methods. This study revealed that UAE would impose better ways for preparing fenugreek extract and observing diosgenin content from fenugreek seeds.

Characterization of phytochemical components and identification of main antioxidants in Crateva unilocalaris Buch. shoots by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS2 analysis

The chemical constituents and antioxidant activity of the three different extracts (80% methanol, 80% ethanol, and 80% acetone) of Crateva unilocalaris Buch. shoots were investigated. Six phenolic compounds and seven saponins were characterized in all extracts. Chikusetsusaponin IVa had the highest content (17.92 to 29.16 mg/g), and chlorogenic acid was the most abundant phenolic compound (10.48 to 13.99 mg/g). The acetone extract had the highest total phenolic, flavonoid, and saponin contents and the strongest antioxidant activity. Moreover, all extracts exhibited good effects on the inhibition of intracellular ROS generation in HepG2 cells. Phenolic compounds but not saponins contributed significantly to the DPPH or ABTS radical scavenging activity of C. unilocalaris shoots according to the results of DPPH•-UHPLC-HRMS and ABTS•+-UHPLC-HRMS analyses. These results may be helpful for further understandings and utilization of C. unilocalaris shoots as a potential natural source in the food or nutraceuticals industry.

Reversal effect of Solanum dasyphyllum against rotenone-induced neurotoxicity

We earlier reported the protective effect of Solanum dasyphyllum against cyanide neurotoxicity. In furtherance to this, we investigated the protective effect of S. dasyphyllum against rotenone, a chemical toxin that causes brain-related diseases. Mitochondria fraction obtained from the brain of male Wistar rats was incubated with various solvents (hexane, dichloromethane, ethylacetate, and methanol) extracts of S. dasyphyllum before rotenone exposure. Mitochondria respiratory enzymes (MRE) were evaluated along with markers of oxidative stress. The inhibition of MRE by rotenone was reversed by treatment with various fractions of S. dasyphyllum. The oxidative stress induced by rotenone was also reversed by fractions of S. dasyphyllum. In addition, the ethylacetate fraction of S. dasyphyllum was most potent against rotenone-induced neurotoxicity. In conclusion, S. dasyphyllum is rich in active phytochemicals that can prevent some neurotoxic effects of rotenone exposure. Further study can be done in an in vivo model to substantiate our results.

Effect of extraction temperature and solvent type on the bioactive potential of Ocimum gratissimum L. extracts

Ocimum gratissimum is a shrub that belongs to the Lamiaceae family of plants. Despite the known biological activities and ethnomedicinal applications, comparative evaluation of the effects of different extraction techniques on the chemical and bioactive properties of O. gratissimum extracts has not yet been performed. This study adopted different analytical techniques to determine the effect of extraction temperature and solvent type on the phytochemical and bioactive properties of O. gratissimum extracts. Chemical profiling showed increased concentrations of compounds for both the ethanolic and methanolic extracts compared to the water extracts. The results also revealed that the extraction temperature had an effect on the total phenolic content and radical-scavenging properties of the different extracts. The antioxidant kinetic modeling achieved the best fit when using the second-order kinetic model. Methanolic extracts had the highest levels of antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium. At high concentrations, all extracts lowered the viability of the breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. In conclusion, the chemical and bioactive properties of all extracts showed significant dependence on the extraction temperature and solvent type. With proper extraction methods, they boast a wide range of promising applications in the medical, pharmaceutical, and food industries.