Tyrosinase inhibition and antioxidant properties of Asphodelus microcarpus extracts

The Green Extraction of Blueberry By-Products: An Evaluation of the Bioactive Potential of the Anthocyanin/Polyphenol Fraction

In the context of a circular economy, this study explores the valorization of blueberry pomace (BP) as a source of bioactive compounds using sustainable extraction methods. Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and microwave-assisted subcritical water extraction (MASWE) were employed to obtain two distinct fractions: MAE 1° and MASWE 2°. The first extract, MAE 1°, obtained at 80 °C, had a high total anthocyanin content (21.96 mgCya-3-glu/gextract), making it suitable as a natural pigment. Additionally, MAE 1° exhibited significant enzyme inhibition, particularly against α-amylase and β-glucosidase, suggesting potential anti-diabetic and anti-viral applications. The second extract, MASWE 2°, obtained at 150 °C, contained a higher total phenolic content (211.73 mgGAE/gextract) and demonstrated stronger antioxidant activity. MASWE 2° showed greater inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and tyrosinase, indicating its potential for use in Alzheimer's treatment, skincare, or as a food preservative. MASWE 2° exhibited cytotoxicity against HeLa cells and effectively mitigated H2O2-induced oxidative stress in HaCat cells, with MAE 1° showing similar but less pronounced effects. A tested formulation combining MAE 1° and MASWE 2° extracts in a 3:2 ratio effectively enhanced anthocyanin stability, demonstrating its potential as a heat-stable pigment. The extract characteristics were compared with a conventional method (MeOH-HCl in reflux condition), and the protocol's sustainability was assessed using several green metric tools, which provided insights into its environmental impact and efficiency.

The inhibition activity on tyrosinase, xanthine oxidase, and lipase of Musa balbisiana parts grown in Vietnam

Musa balbisiana Colla plant belongs to the Musaceae family, which is well-known for its nutritional and pharmacological properties. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-xanthine oxidase, anti-lipase, and anti-tyrosinase activities of samples of corm, pseudostem, inflorescence, fruit, peel, and seed of M. balbisiana. The results show that seed performed the highest capacity in the inhibition of three investigated enzymes, with IC50 values of 290.25 μg/mL (anti-tyrosinase), 141.51 μg/mL (anti-xanthine oxidase), and 25.66 μg/mL (anti-lipase). In addition, while fruit showed better performance in anti-lipase inhibition (IC50: 32.72 μg/mL), corm pointed out higher capability on anti-xanthine oxidase (IC50: 160.67 μg/mL) and anti-tyrosinase (IC50: 334.43 μg/mL). The data show the high potential of the application of M. balbisiana parts in medical aesthetics, dietary supplements, or medicine. This is the first report to systematically present the biological activities of all parts of M. balbisiana grown in Vietnam.

Anti-phototoxicity and anti-melanogenesis activities of eelgrass Zostera marina and its phenolic constituents

The eelgrass Zostera marina L. has several economic roles, from its earlier usage in the insulation industry to protecting the earth from global warming. In this study, we aimed to discover the cosmetic potential of Z. marina. A methanolic extract of Z. marina showed anti-phototoxicity and anti-melanogenesis activity with an IC50 of 17.5 μM, followed by a phytochemical analysis of its phenolic constituents. Ten compounds (1-10) were isolated by several chromatographic techniques and identified by means of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) as well as high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR/MS). The identified compounds are caffeic acid (1), 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (protocatechuic acid) (2), luteolin (3), diosmetin (4), 4-coumaroyl-4'-hydroxyl phenyllactic acid (5), rosmarinic acid (6), caffeoyl-4'-hydroxy-phenyllactic acid (isorinic acid) (7), apigenin 7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (8), luteolin 7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (9), and luteolin 7-sulfate (10). This is the first report to identify compounds 5 and 7 from the family Zosteraceae. The isolated compounds were assessed for their anti-aging abilities and were found to exhibit good anti-phototoxicity and anti-melanogenesis activities by increasing the viability of UVB-irradiated HaCaT cells by 6% to 34% and by inhibiting melanin synthesis in B16 melanoma cells by 44% to 65%.

Anti-Aging Potential of a Novel Ingredient Derived from Sugarcane Straw Extract (SSE)

Natural and sustainable anti-aging ingredients have gained attention from the cosmetic industry. This study evaluated the anti-aging potential of a sugarcane straw extract-based (SSE) cosmetic ingredient. First, cytotoxicity tests were assessed in keratinocytes and fibroblast cell lines, and sensitization was carried out through the direct peptide reactivity assay. Subsequently, various anti-aging properties were investigated, including inhibiting skin aging-related enzymes, promoting elastin and hyaluronic acid synthesis, and anti-pollution activity. Finally, a permeability assay using a synthetic membrane resembling skin was conducted. The results demonstrated that the SSE ingredient effectively inhibited elastase (55%), collagenase (25%), and tyrosinase (47%) while promoting hyaluronic acid production at non-cytotoxic and low-sensitizer concentrations. Moreover, it reduced the inflammatory response provoked by urban pollution, as evidenced by decreased levels of IL1-α and IL-6. However, it was observed that the phenolic compounds predominantly reached the skin's surface, indicating a limited ability to penetrate deeper layers of the skin. Therefore, it can be concluded that the SSE ingredient holds anti-aging properties, albeit with limited penetration into deeper skin layers. Further research and formulation advancements are needed to optimize the ingredient's ability to reach and exert its effects in deeper skin layers.

Antioxidant activity, anti-tyrosinase activity, molecular docking studies, and molecular dynamic simulation of active compounds found in nipa palm vinegar

Tyrosinase is a key enzyme in melanogenesis and its inhibitors have become increasingly because of their potential activity as hypopigmenting agents which have less side effects. Nipa palm vinegar is an aqueous product that is normally used as a food supplement. The aim of this study was to study the determination of antioxidant activity and tyrosinase inhibitory activities of aqueous extract of original nipa palm vinegar (AE O-NPV), nipa palm vinegar powder (NPV-P) and aqueous extract of nipa palm vinegar powder (AE NPV-P) were examined. Nipa palm vinegars were evaluated the phenolic and flavonoid content, and the active compounds which were submitted to molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation, chemoinformatics, rule of five, skin absorption and toxicity. The highest phenolic and flavonoid contents in the AE O-NPV were 2.36 ± 0.23 mg gallic acid equivalents/g extract and 5.11 ± 0.59 mg quercetin equivalents/g, and the highest ABTS radical cation scavenging activity was also found. The AE O-NPV, NPV-P and AE NPV-P showed anti-mushroom tyrosinase activity. The HPLC analysis showed that there were vanillic acid and three flavonoids (catechin, rutin and quercetin). The molecular docking study revealed that the binding of the vanillic acid and three flavonoids occurred in the active site residues (histidine and other amino acids). Moreover, the number of hydrogen bond acceptors/donors, solubility, polar surface area and bioavailability score of the vanillic acid and three flavonoids were acceptable compared to Lipinski's Rule of Five. The molecular dynamic simulation showed that vanillic acid interacts with HIS284 through π-π stacking hydrophobic interactions and forms a metal-acceptor interaction with the copper molecule at the tyrosinase active site. All compounds revealed good skin permeability and nontoxicity. Nipa palm vinegar could be a promising source of a new ingredient for tyrosinase inhibition for cosmetics or pharmaceutical products.

Eucalyptus torquata L. flowers: a comprehensive study reporting their metabolites profiling and anti-gouty arthritis potential

Gouty arthritis is one of the most common metabolic disorders affecting people. Plant based drugs can lower the risk of this health disorder. The anti-gouty potential of Eucalyptus torquata flowers methanol extract (ETME) was evaluated in vitro via measuring the inhibitory effects of five pro-inflammatory enzymes; xanthine oxidase (XO), hyaluronidase, lipoxygenase (5-LOX), cyclooxygenases COX-1, and COX-2, in addition to evaluating the inhibition of histamine release, albumin denaturation, membrane stabilization, tyrosinase, and protease inhibitory activities. Also, its antioxidant potential was determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging assays and ferric reducing power assay (FRAP). HPLC-PDA-MS/MS was used to identify the metabolites in the tested extract. The latter exhibited substantial anti-arthritic properties in all assays with comparable potential to the corresponding reference drugs. HPLC-MS/MS analysis of this bioactive extract tentatively annotated 46 metabolites including phloroglucinols, gallic and ellagic acids derivatives, terpenes, flavonoids, fatty acids, and miscellaneous metabolites. Our study highlights the medicinal importance of E. torquata as an anti-gouty candidate and opens new avenues of gouty management.

Pharmacognostical and Phytochemical Studies and Biological Activity of Curculigo latifolia Plant Organs for Natural Skin-Whitening Compound Candidate

Curculigo latifolia (family Amaryllidaceae) is used empirically for medicinal purposes. It is distributed throughout Asian countries, especially Indonesia. This study aimed at standardizing the C. latifolia plant, analyzing its phytochemical profile, and evaluating its pharmacological effects. The powder from each organ (root, stem, and leaves) was standardized organoleptically and microscopically. Samples were extracted by graded maceration using hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol. The extracts were determined for total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). Antioxidant (radical scavenging and metal ion reduction) and antityrosinase activities were determined by spectrophotometric methods. Extracts were analysed for phytochemical profiles by LC-ESI-MS. The highest TPC and TFC were found in the ethanolic extract of the root organ (68.63 ± 2.97 mg GAE/g) and the ethyl acetate extract of the stem (14.33 ± 0.71 mg QE/g extract). High antioxidant activities were found in the ethanolic root extract (20.42 ± 0.33 µg/mL) and ethanolic stem extract (45.65 ± 0.77 µg/mL) by DPPH• and NO• assays, respectively. The ion reduction activity (by CUPRAC assay) was most significant in the ethyl acetate stem extract (390.42 ± 14.49 µmol GAEAC/g extract). Ethanolic root extract was the most active in inhibiting tyrosinase (IC50 value of 108.5 µg/mL). The correlation matrix between TPC and antioxidant activities showed a moderate to robust correlation, whereas the TPC and antityrosinase activity showed a robust correlation. The TFC and antioxidant or antityrosinase activities showed a weak to moderate correlation. The LC-ESI-MS data identified major phenols in the active extracts, including methyl 3-hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzoate, quercetin, 4-O-caffeoylquinic acid-1, and curculigoside. Overall, this study suggests that extracts from the C. latifolia plant offer potent antioxidant and antityrosinase activities, allowing them to be used as natural antioxidants and candidates for skin-lightening compounds.

Tyrosinase Inhibitors: A Perspective

Due to its integral role in the biosynthesis of melanin in all kingdoms of life, tyrosinase has become an extremely important target for inhibition in several sectors of research including agricultural and cosmetic research. Inhibitors of tyrosinase have made it to the market in the cosmetics industry, but their use has been limited due to conflicting efficacy and potential toxicity, which has led to several small molecules being removed from the market. Undaunted, researchers have continued to pursue tyrosinase inhibitors with varying degrees of success. These pursuits have built an impressive and rich library of research. This review is intended to provide a perspective of the past twenty years (2003-2023) of research on tyrosinase inhibitors by highlighting exemplar molecules and developments.

Naturally-Occurring Tyrosinase Inhibitors Classified by Enzyme Kinetics and Copper Chelation

Currently, there are three major assaying methods used to validate in vitro whitening activity from natural products: methods using mushroom tyrosinase, human tyrosinase, and dopachrome tautomerase (or tyrosinase-related protein-2, TRP-2). Whitening agent development consists of two ways, melanin synthesis inhibition in melanocytes and downregulation of melanocyte stimulation. For melanin levels, the melanocyte cell line has been used to examine melanin synthesis with the expression levels of TRP-1 and TRP-2. The proliferation of epidermal surfaced cells and melanocytes is stimulated by cellular signaling receptors, factors, or mediators including endothelin-1, α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, nitric oxide, histamine, paired box 3, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, pyrimidine dimer, ceramide, stem cell factors, melanocortin-1 receptor, and cAMP. In addition, the promoter region of melanin synthetic genes including tyrosinase is upregulated by melanocyte-specific transcription factors. Thus, the inhibition of growth and melanin synthesis in gene expression levels represents a whitening research method that serves as an alternative to tyrosinase inhibition. Many researchers have recently presented the bioactivity-guided fractionation, discovery, purification, and identification of whitening agents. Melanogenesis inhibition can be obtained using three different methods: tyrosinase inhibition, copper chelation, and melanin-related protein downregulation. There are currently four different types of inhibitors characterized based on their enzyme inhibition mechanisms: competitive, uncompetitive, competitive/uncompetitive mixed-type, and noncompetitive inhibitors. Reversible inhibitor types act as suicide substrates, where traditional inhibitors are classified as inactivators and reversible inhibitors based on the molecule-recognizing properties of the enzyme. In a minor role, transcription factors can also be downregulated by inhibitors. Currently, the active site copper iron-binding inhibitors such as kojic acid and chalcone exhibit tyrosinase inhibitory activity. Because the tyrosinase catalysis site structure is important for the mechanism determination of tyrosinase inhibitors, understanding the enzyme recognition and inhibitory mechanism of inhibitors is essential for the new development of tyrosinase inhibitors. The present review intends to classify current natural products identified by means of enzyme kinetics and copper chelation to exhibit tyrosinase enzyme inhibition.

Identification of Marker Compounds and In Vitro Toxicity Evaluation of Two Portuguese Asphodelus Leaf Extracts

The leaves of Asphodelus bento-rainhae subsp. bento-rainhae, an endemic Portuguese species, and Asphodelus macrocarpus subsp. macrocarpus have been used as food, and traditionally as medicine, for treating ulcers, urinary tract, and inflammatory disorders. The present study aims to establish the phytochemical profile of the main secondary metabolites, together with the antimicrobial, antioxidant and toxicity assessments of both Asphodelus leaf 70% ethanol extracts. Phytochemical screenings were conducted by the TLC and LC-UV/DAD-ESI/MS chromatographic technique, and quantification of the leading chemical classes was performed by spectrophotometric methods. Liquid-liquid partitions of crude extracts were obtained using ethyl ether, ethyl acetate, and water. For in vitro evaluations of antimicrobial activity, the broth microdilution method, and for the antioxidant activity, the FRAP and DPPH methods were used. Genotoxicity and cytotoxicity were assessed by Ames and MTT tests, respectively. Twelve known compounds including neochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, isoorientin, p-coumaric acid, isovitexin, ferulic acid, luteolin, aloe-emodin, diosmetin, chrysophanol, and β-sitosterol were identified as the main marker compounds, and terpenoids and condensed tannins were found to be the major class of secondary metabolites of both medicinal plants. The ethyl ether fractions demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity against all the Gram-positive microorganisms, (MIC value of 62 to 1000 µg/mL), with aloe-emodin as one of the main marker compounds highly active against Staphylococcus epidermidis (MIC value of 0.8 to 1.6 µg/mL). Ethyl acetate fractions exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ of 800 to 1200 µg/mL, respectively). No cytotoxicity (up to 1000 µg/mL) or genotoxicity/mutagenicity (up to 5 mg/plate, with/without metabolic activation) were detected. The obtained results contribute to the knowledge of the value and safety of the studied species as herbal medicines.

Monographic Quality Parameters and Genotoxicity Assessment of Asphodelus bento-rainhae and Asphodelus macrocarpus Root Tubers as Herbal Medicines

Root tubers of Asphodelus bento-rainhae subsp. bento-rainhae (AbR), an endemic species with relevant interest due to conservation concerns, and Asphodelus macrocarpus subsp. macrocarpus (AmR) have been traditionally used for culinary and medicinal purposes, mainly associated with skin infection and inflammation. The present study aims to establish the quality control criteria for the proper characterization of dried root tubers of both species as herbal substances, together with their preclinical safety assessments. Botanical identification using macroscopic and microscopic techniques and phytochemical evaluation/quantification of the main classes of marker secondary metabolites, including phenolic compounds (flavonoid, anthraquinone, condensed and hydrolysable tannin) and terpenoids were performed. Additionally, in vitro genotoxicity/mutagenicity was evaluated by Ames test. Evident morphological differences in the development of tubercles (3.5 × 1 cm in AbR and 8.7 × 1.4 cm in AmR) and microscopicly in the arrangements and characteristics of the vascular cylinder (metaxylem and protoxylems) were found. Anatomical similarities such as multiple-layered epidermis (velamen) and the cortex area with thin-walled idioblasts (134 ± 2.9 µm and 150 ± 27.6 µm) containing raphide crystals (37.2 ± 14.2 µm and 87.7 ± 15.3 µm) were observed between AbR and AmR, respectively. Terpenoids (173.88 ± 29.82 and 180.55 ± 10.57 mg OAE/g dried weight) and condensed tannins (128.64 ± 14.05 and 108.35 ± 20.37 mg CAE/g dried weight) were found to be the main class of marker secondary metabolites of AbR and AmR extracts, respectively. No genotoxicity (up to 5 mg/plate, without metabolic activation) was detected in these medicinal plants' tested extracts. The obtained results will contribute to the knowledge of the value of the Portuguese flora and their future commercial cultivation utilization as raw materials for industrial and pharmaceutical use.

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) essential oil and oil-loaded nano-formulations as an anti-aging potentiality via TGFβ/SMAD pathway

Aging has become a concern for many people, especially women. Given that high-quality anti-aging products are of high cost; it has imperative to search for other economical sources. Essential oils are frequently used in cosmetics products due to a wide range of biological activities as well as their pleasant odor. The current study aimed to investigate the biochemical effect of the cosmetic potential of selected Apiaceous essential oils, traditionally used for skincare, by evaluating their anti-wrinkle activity. It is worth noting that, coriander essential oil showed the highest collagenase, elastase, tyrosinase, and hyaluronidase inhibitory activities compared to other Apiaceous oils (fennel, anise, and cumin). GC–MS proved that coriander essential oil showed a very high level of oxygenated monoterpenes, with linalool (81.29%) as the most abundant constituent. Intriguingly, coriander oil cream and Coriander Essential Oil-loaded Lipid Nanoparticles (CEOLNs) formulations attenuated in vivo UV-induced skin photoaging that was manifested by significantly decreased MDA, COX-2, PGE-2, MMP-1, JNK, and AP-1 levels. Moreover, these pharmaceutical dosage forms significantly increased skin collagen content compared to UV-injured group. Also, coriander essential oil significantly increased TGFβ, TGFβII, and SMAD3 protein expression levels compared to UV-injured group. In conclusion, the pharmaceutical dosage forms of coriander oil possess anti-wrinkle activities that could have an auspicious role in amending extrinsic aging.

Compendium of naringenin: potential sources, analytical aspects, chemistry, nutraceutical potentials and pharmacological profile

Naringenin is flavorless, water insoluble active principle belonging to flavanone subclass. It exhibits a diverse pharmacological profile as well as divine nutraceutical values. Although several researchers have explored this phytoconstituent to evaluate its promising properties, still it has not gained recognition at therapeutic levels and more clinical investigations are still required. Also the neutraceutical potential has limited marketed formulations. This compilation includes the description of reported therapeutic potentials of naringenin in variety of pathological conditions alongwith the underlying mechanisms. Details of various analytical investigations carried on this molecule have been provided along with brief description of chemistry and structural activity relationship. In the end, various patents filed and clinical trial data has been provided. Naringenin has revealed promising pharmacological activities including cardiovascular diseases, neuroprotection, anti-diabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet activity. It has been marketed in the form of nanoformulations, co-crystals, solid dispersions, tablets, capsules and inclusion complexes. It is also available in various herbal formulations as nutraceutical supplement. There are some pharmacokinetic issue with naringenin like poor absorption and low dissolution rate. Although these issues have been sorted out upto certain extent still further research to investigate the bioavailability of naringenin from herbal supplements and its clinical efficacy is essential.

Untargeted Phenolic Profiling and Functional Insights of the Aerial Parts and Bulbs of Drimia maritima (L.) Stearn

Drimia maritima (L.) Stearn (squill), belonging to the Asparagaceae family, is acknowledged as a medicinally valuable species from the Drimia genera. In this study, water, methanol, and ethyl acetate extracts of D. maritima aerial parts and bulbs were investigated for their polyphenols profile and evaluated for their antioxidant and enzyme inhibition properties. Phenolics were profiled through an untargeted metabolomics approach using an ultra-high pressure liquid chromatograph coupled to quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS). This analysis revealed an enrichment of low molecular weight phenolics and flavonoids in the aerial parts of D. maritima, while lignans mainly characterized bulb extracts. Antioxidant capacity was investigated by different assays, including phosphomolybdenum assays, radical scavenging (DPPH: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl; ABTS: 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), as well as reducing ability (CUPRAC: cupric reducing antioxidant capacity; FRAP: ferric reducing antioxidant power), and metal chelating. In radical scavenging and reducing power assays, the water extract of aerial parts exhibited the strongest ability (DPPH: 36.99 mg trolox equivalent (TE)/g; ABTS: 85.96 mg TE/g; CUPRAC: 87.37 mg TE/g; FRAP: 55.43 mg TE/g). In general, the ethyl acetate extracts from aerial parts and bulbs provided the weakest antioxidant capacity. Concerning enzyme inhibitory activities, the water extracts of the bulb were poorly active, while the ethyl acetate extracts from both plant portions displayed the best α-amylase inhibitory abilities. The best acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) abilities were recorded by ethyl acetate extract of aerial parts (2.36 mg galantamine equivalent (GALAE)/g) and bulbs (5.10 mg GALAE/g), respectively. Overall, these results support the medicinal aptitude of D. maritima and its possible use as a natural source of antioxidants and enzyme inhibitors with functional potential.

Skin cancer, including related pathways and therapy and the role of luteolin derivatives as potential therapeutics

Cutaneous malignant melanoma is the fastest growing and the most aggressive form of skin cancer that is diagnosed. However, its incidence is relatively scarce compared to the highest mortality rate of all skin cancers. The much more common skin cancers include nonmelanoma malignant skin cancers. Moreover, over the past several decades, the frequency of all skin cancers has increased much more dynamically than that of almost any other type of cancer. Among the available therapeutic options for skin cancers, chemotherapy used immediately after the surgical intervention has been an essential element. Unfortunately, the main problem with conventional chemopreventive regimens involves the lack of response to treatment and the associated side effects. Hence, there is a need for much more effective anticancer drugs. Correspondingly, the targeted alternatives have involved phytochemicals, which are safer chemotherapeutic agents and exhibit competitive anticancer activity with high therapeutic efficacy. Among polyphenolic compounds, some flavonoids and their derivatives, which are mostly found in medicinal plants, have been demonstrated to influence the modulation of signaling pathways at each stage of the carcinogenesis process, which is also important in the context of skin cancers. Hence, this review focuses on an exhaustive overview of the therapeutic effects of luteolin and its derivatives in the treatment and prevention of skin cancers. The bioavailability and structure–activity relationships of luteolin derivatives are also discussed. This review is the first such complete account of all of the scientific reports concerning this particular group of natural compounds that target a specific area of neoplastic diseases.

Molecular Docking, Tyrosinase, Collagenase, and Elastase Inhibition Activities of Argan By-Products

The argan tree (Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels) is one of the most important floristic resources in Morocco. This Moroccan endemic tree is known for its numerous therapeutic and medicinal uses. In addition to some medicinal and cosmetic uses, argan fruit pulp and press cake are traditionally used by the Berber population for heating and feeding livestock. Molecular docking is an in silico approach that predicts the interaction between a ligand and a protein. This approach is mainly used in chemistry and pharmacology of natural products as a prediction tool with the purpose of selecting plant extracts or fractions for in vitro tests. The aim of this research is to study the evaluation of potential tyrosinase, collagenase, and elastase inhibitory activities of argan fruit press-cake and pulp extracts. Extracts were evaluated for their total phenolic content (TPC), and the major polyphenols of both press-cake and pulp extracts were submitted to molecular docking in order to determine the mechanisms of action of these compounds. Obtained results revealed that fruit pulp had the strongest dermocosmetic activities, as well as the highest TPC, with values above 55 mg gallic-acid equivalent per gram of dry matter (mgeq AG/gDM). Moreover, those results were positively correlated with the docking findings, suggesting that the pulp lead compounds have higher affinity with tyrosinase, collagenase, and elastase action sites. The results here presented are very promising and open new perspectives for the exploitation of argan-tree by-products as cosmetic agents towards the development of new anti-aging products.

Phytochemical Screening, In Vitro and In Silico Studies of Volatile Compounds from Petroselinum crispum (Mill) Leaves Grown in Saudi Arabia

The herbal plant Petroselinum crispum (P. crispum) (Mill) is commonly available around the world. In this study, the leaves of the herbal plant P. crispum were collected from the central region of Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia, to explore their in vitro pharmacological activity. Essential oil from the leaves of P. crispum was isolated using the hydrodistillation method. The composition of P. crispum essential oil (PCEO) was determined using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 67 components were identified, representing approximately 96.02% of the total volatile composition. Myristicin was identified as the principal constituent (41.45%). The in vitro biological activity was assessed to evaluate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory potential of PCEO. PCEO showed the highest antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus among all the evaluated microbial species. In vitro anti-inflammatory evaluation using albumin and trypsin assays showed the excellent anti-inflammatory potential of PCEO compared to the standard drugs. An in silico study of the primary PCEO compound was conducted using online tools such as PASS, Swiss ADME, and Molecular docking. In silico PASS prediction results supported our in vitro findings. Swiss ADME revealed the drug likeness and safety properties of the major metabolites present in PCEO. Molecular docking results were obtained by studying the interaction of Myristicin with an antifungal (PDB: 1IYL and 3LD6), antibacterial (PDB: 1AJ6 and 1JIJ), antioxidant (PDB: 3NM8 and 1HD2), and anti-inflammatory (3N8Y and 3LN1) receptors supported the in vitro results. Therefore, PCEO or Myristicin might be valuable for developing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial drugs.

Evaluation of 4-(4-Fluorobenzyl)piperazin-1-yl]-Based Compounds as Competitive Tyrosinase Inhibitors Endowed with Antimelanogenic Effects

There is a considerable attention for the development of inhibitors of tyrosinase (TYR) as therapeutic strategy for the treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders in humans. Continuing in our efforts to identify TYR inhibitors, we describe the design, synthesis and pharmacophore exploration of new small molecules structurally characterized by the presence of the 4-fluorobenzylpiperazine moiety as key pharmacophoric feature for the inhibition of TYR from Agaricus bisporus (AbTYR). Our investigations resulted in the discovery of the competitive inhibitor [4-(4-fluorobenzyl)piperazin-1-yl]-(3-chloro-2-nitro-phenyl)methanone 26 (IC50 =0.18 μM) that proved to be ∼100-fold more active than reference compound kojic acid (IC50 =17.76 μM). Notably, compound 26 exerted antimelanogenic effect on B16F10 cells in absence of cytotoxicity. Docking analysis suggested its binding mode into AbTYR and into modelled human TYR.

Skin hyperpigmentation and its treatment with herbs: an alternative method

Background

With an increasing number of patients, those who are facing a lot of skin-related complaints, often referred to as skin of pigmentation patients, are on the rise. Among all the most common complaints in patients with skin of color is hyperpigmentation. So, there is need of herbal formulation for treatment of hyperpigmentation.

Main body

This review article addresses the different types of hyperpigmentation, causes, and its treatment with herbs for the management of the skin hyperpigmentation. As uneven pigmentation of skin or hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition, which occurs when the skin produces more melanin. This can make spots or patches of skin appear darker than surrounding areas. Some forms of hyperpigmentation with post-inflammatory, melasma, and sun spots are more likely to affect areas of face, arms, and legs due to sun exposure and injury. Although the availability of multiple treatments for the condition which leads to some adverse effects, hyperpigmentation continues to present skin care management challenges for dermatologists.

Conclusion

Some plants and phytoconstituents, e.g., Azadirachta indica, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Panax ginseng and genistein, ellagic acids, quercetin, are very useful in herbal cosmetic as anti-hyperpigmentry agents in cosmetic industries. Some of flavonoids and triterpenoids present in plants also show their effect as antioxidant and skin whitening agents. It is expected that this review will compile and improve the existing knowledge on the potential utilization of herbs for the treatment of skin hyperpigmentation.

Inhibition of cell-intrinsic NF-κB activity and metastatic abilities of breast cancer by aloe-emodin and emodic-acid isolated from Asphodelus microcarpus

Anthraquinones are a major class of compounds naturally occurring in Asphodelus microcarpus. The pharmacological actions of anthraquinones in cancer cells are known to induce apoptosis or autophagy, and revert multidrug resistance. In this study, five anthraquinone-type analogs were isolated from the methanol extract of A. microcarpus leaves and identified as, emodin, rhein, physcion, aloe-emodin, and emodic acid. Among them, aloe-emodin and emodic-acid strongly inhibited the proliferation, cells-intrinsic NF-κB activity and metastatic ability of breast cancer. Although aloe-emodin inhibited p38 and ERK phosphorylation, emodic-acid more markedly inhibited JNK, in addition to p38 and ERK phosphorylation. Both aloe-emodin and emodic-acid inhibited the secretion of the pro-tumorigenic cytokines IL-1β and IL-6, and VEGF and MMP expression, and subsequently inhibited the invasive and migratory potential of 4T1 cells. Thus, our study demonstrated the effects of aloe-emodin and emodin-acid in controlling the migratory and invasive ability of 4T1 breast cancer cells, in addition to inhibiting NF-κB activity and the expression of its downstream target molecules.

Bioactivities of Karanda (Carissa carandas Linn.) fruit extracts for novel cosmeceutical applications

The aim of this research was to determine the total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidation, antiaging, and antibacterial activities of Carissa carandas Linn., and aims at the novel plant sources which is utilized for their cosmeceutical applications. The two conditions (fresh and dried) and three stages (unripe, ripe, and fully ripe) of C. carandas were extracted by ethanolic maceration. Folin–Ciocalteu assay was used for determining the TPC. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays were used for estimating antioxidant activity. The inhibitory tyrosinase activities were measured using the modified dopachrome assay. Antiaging was evaluated by inhibition of collagenase and elastase, and antibacterial activities. The result of six extracts from C. carandas showed that the highest phenolic content and elastase inhibition of the fresh fruit in fully ripe stage were 100.31 ± 2.64 mg GAE/g extract and 14.11% ± 0.95%, respectively. The fresh fruit in the unripe stage showed that the strongest percentage of DPPH IC₅₀ and collagenase inhibitory activity were 29.11 ± 0.23 μg/mL and 85.94% ± 2.21%, respectively. The ethanolic extract of unripe dried fruit exhibited the highest antioxidant activity in the of ABTS assay, with an IC₅₀ of 0.17 ± 0.01 μg/mL. The MBC displayed the dried fruit ripe stage anti Cutibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Staphylococcus aureus strains were 25.0, 25.0, and 16.25 mg/mL, respectively. The fresh fruit in the ripe stage showed that the strongest inhibition tyrosinase was 93.88% ± 5.64%. The conclusion of this research indicates that the fresh fruit of C. carandas fruit extracts has high potential as a novel cosmeceuticals’ applications to antiaging and skin whitening. The dried fruit in ripe stage extract has the most effective ingredient for antiacne products.

LC-ESI/MS-Phytochemical Profiling with Antioxidant, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiviral and In Silico Pharmacological Properties of Algerian Asphodelus tenuifolius (Cav.) Organic Extracts

Asphodelus tenuifolius Cav. (A. tenuifolius) is a medicinal plant with a long history of traditional use to treat ailments. In this study, total phenolic and flavonoid content evaluation using LC-ESI/MS analysis and various biological activities (antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and cytotoxicity) of organic extracts from the aerial parts of A. tenuifolius were analyzed. ADME tools were used to predict the potential of the identified compounds from the most potent extract as specific drugs. As shown, LC-ESI/MS results of chloroformic extract allowed the tentative identification of 12 compounds. Chloroformic extract was rich in polyphenols and flavonoids and exhibited the highest antioxidant activity given by DPPH (IC50 = 25 µg/mL) as compared to the BHT standard (11.5 µg/mL) and β-carotene bleaching assays (IC50 = 95.692 µg/mL). Antibacterial activity results showed that chloroformic extract has a highest activity against Gram-positive and -negative bacteria, especially against Salmonella Typhimurium DT104 (IZ = 19.3 mm, MIC = 18.75 mg/mL, MBC = 37.5 mg/mL). The MBC/MIC ratio was evaluated to interpret the activity that was bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal. Conversely, weaker antifungal activity was registered, and no antiviral activity was observed for all extracts against Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 and Coxsakievirus B-3 viruses. Cytotoxic activity on VERO cell line results revealed that butanol extract was not toxic, with CC50 value of 1430 µg/mL, while chloroformic extract showed moderate cytotoxicity. Additionally, in silico studies performed proved promising pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness properties of the main compounds from the chloroformic extract. Taken together, this work highlights the potent bioactivity and acceptable drug-likeness of this plant, which supports its further preclinical development.

(E)-1-(Furan-2-yl)-(substituted phenyl)prop-2-en-1-one Derivatives as Tyrosinase Inhibitors and Melanogenesis Inhibition: An In Vitro and In Silico Study

A series of (E)-1-(furan-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one derivatives (compounds 1–8) were synthesized and evaluated for their mushroom tyrosinase inhibitory activity. Among these series, compound 8 (2,4-dihydroxy group bearing benzylidene) showed potent tyrosinase inhibitory activity, with respective IC₅₀ values of 0.0433 µM and 0.28 µM for the monophenolase and diphenolase as substrates in comparison to kojic acid as standard compound 19.97 µM and 33.47 µM. Moreover, the enzyme kinetics of compound 8 were determined to be of the mixed inhibition type and inhibition constant (K_i) values of 0.012 µM and 0.165 µM using the Lineweaver-Burk plot. Molecular docking results indicated that compound 8 can bind to the catalytic and allosteric sites 1 and 2 of tyrosinase to inhibit enzyme activity. The computational molecular dynamics analysis further revealed that compound 8 interacted with two residues in the tyrosinase active site pocket, such as ASN260 and MET280. In addition, compound 8 attenuated melanin synthesis and cellular tyrosinase activity, simulated by α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone and 1-methyl-3-isobutylxanthine. Compound 8 also decreased tyrosinase expressions in B16F10 cells. Based on in vitro and computational studies, we propose that compound 8 might be a worthy candidate for the development of an antipigmentation agent.

Network analysis, chemical characterization, antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory effects of foxglove (Digitalis cariensis Boiss. ex Jaub. & Spach): A novel raw material for pharmaceutical applications

The present study outlines the phenolic composition and pharmacological properties of different extracts of Digitalis cariensis Boiss. ex Jaub. & Spach root and aerial parts. The metabolic profiles of the studied extracts were characterized by UHPLC-MS. The in vitro antioxidant and enzyme (acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), tyrosinase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase) inhibitory potential of the extracts were determined. Bioinformatics and docking investigations were also conducted to support the enzyme inhibition test and predict putative targets for potential pharmacological applications. Overall, the methanolic extract followed by the water extract of the D. cariensis root were found to be superior source of antioxidant compounds except for metal chelating ability, in which the water extract of the root (26.34 ± 1.54 mg EDTAE/g) and aerial parts (16.47 ± 0.88 mg EDTAE/g) have showed the highest activity. The tested extracts were potent against AChE (9.11 ± 0.27-9.79 ± 0.28 mg GEs/g extract), α-amylase (0.12 ± 0.01- 0.50 ± 0.01 mmol ACEs/g extract) and α-glucosidase (0.28 ± 0.01-17.29 ± 0.24 mmol ACEs/ g extract). Notable activity against tyrosinase was displayed by the methanolic extracts (Root-MeOH: 123.71 ± 2.70 and aerial parts - MeOH: 137.96 ± 1.07 mg KAE/g extract), while none of the extracts were potent against BChE. According to docking investigations, the observed anti-tyrosinase effect could be related, at least partially, to the presence of luteolin, rosmarinic acid and kaempferol in the extracts. Results amassed herein is the first report on the biological attributes of D. cariensis, which validate the pharmacological uses of this plant.

New Insights into the Exploitation of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Aglianico Leaf Extracts for Nutraceutical Purposes

The leaves of Vitis vinifera L. have been used for a long time in traditional medicine for the treatment of many ailments. Grape polyphenols, indeed, have been demonstrated to be able to defend against oxidative stress, responsible for various disorders such as cancer, diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases. The effects of different extraction techniques, Soxhlet (SOX), Accelerated Solvent (ASE 40, ASE 50) and Ultrasound Assisted Extraction (UAE) were studied in this work to evaluate their impact on the chemical profile and bioactive potential of Vitis vinifera L. (cv. Aglianico) leaf extracts. The phytochemical profile was investigated by HPLC-DAD and 9 phenolic compounds were identified and quantified in the extract. Moreover, the antioxidant, anticholinesterase and antityrosinase activities were evaluated. In detail, the total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacities and β-Carotene Bleaching assays) were evaluated and compared to assess the Relative Antioxidant Capacity Index (RACI). To test the inhibitory activity of extracts towards cholinesterases, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibition assays were performed. SOX and ASE 50 have shown the highest value of RACI, 0.76 and 0.65, respectively. Regarding enzymatic inhibitory activity, ASE 50 (IC₅₀ = 107.16 ± 8.12 μg/mL) and SOX (IC₅₀ = 171.34 ± 12.12 μg/mL) extracts exhibited the highest AChE and BChE inhibitory activity, respectively, while UAE (IC₅₀ = 293.2 ± 25.6 μg/mL, followed by SOX (IC₅₀ = 302.5 ± 38.3 μg/mL) showed the highest tyrosinase inhibition value. Our results demonstrated for the first time that Aglianico leaves are important sources of phenols that could be used to prevent oxidative stress and be potentially helpful in diseases treatable with tyrosinase and cholinesterase inhibitors, like myasthenia gravis or Alzheimer’s.

Tyrosinase and Melanogenesis Inhibition by Indigenous African Plants: A Review

The indiscriminate use of non-regulated skin lighteners among African populations has raised health concerns due to the negative effects associated with skin lightener toxicity. For this reason, there is a growing interest in the cosmetic development of plants and their metabolites as alternatives to available chemical-derived skin lightening formulations. Approximately 90% of Africa’s population depends on traditional medicine, and the continent’s biodiversity holds plant material with various biological activities, thus attracting considerable research interest. This study aimed to review existing evidence and document indigenous African plant species capable of inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase and melanogenesis for potential incorporation into skin lightening products. Literature search on melanin biosynthesis, skin lightening, and tyrosinase inhibitors resulted in the identification of 35 plant species were distributed among 31 genera and 21 families across 15 African countries and 9 South African provinces. All plants identified in this study showed competent tyrosinase and melanogenesis inhibitory capabilities. These results indicate that African plants have the potential to serve as alternatives to current chemically-derived skin lighteners.

Bergenia pacumbis from Nepal, an astonishing enzymes inhibitor

BACKGROUND

The Bergenia species are perennial herbs native to central Asia, and one of the most promising medicinal plants of the family Saxifragaceae which are popularly known as 'Pashanbheda'. The aim of this study was to evaluate antioxidant and α-amylase, α-glucosidase, lipase, tyrosinase, elastase, and cholinesterases inhibition potential of Bergenia pacumbis of Nepali origin collected from the Karnali region of Nepal.

METHODS

The sequential crude extracts were made in hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and water. Antioxidant activities were analyzed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assay. The α-amylase, α-glucosidase, lipase, tyrosinase, elastase, acetylcholinesterase, and butyrylcholinesterase inhibition were analyzed by the 3,5-Dinitrosalicylic acid (DNSA), p-Nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside (p-NPG), 4-nitrophenyl butyrate (p-NPB), l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA), N-Succinyl-Ala-Ala-p-nitroanilide (AAAPVN), acetylthiocholine, and butyrylcholine as a respective substrate. The major metabolites were identified by high performance liquid chromatography with electron spray ionization- quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS) profiling.

RESULTS

Our results revealed the great antioxidant ability of crude extract of B. pacumbis in ethyl acetate extract against both DPPH (IC50 = 30.14 ± 0.14 μg/mL) and ABTS (IC50 = 17.38 ± 1.12 μg/mL). However, the crude methanol extract of B. pacumbis showed the comparable enzymes inhibitions with standard drugs; α-amylase (IC50 = 14.03 ± 0.04 μg/mL), α-glucosidase (IC50 = 0.29 ± 0.00 μg/mL), lipase (IC50 = 67.26 ± 0.17 μg/mL), tyrosinase (IC50 = 58.25 ± 1.63 μg/mL), elastase (IC50 = 74.00 ± 3.03 μg/mL), acetylcholinesterase (IC50 = 31.52 ± 0.58 μg/mL), and butyrylcholinesterase (IC50 = 11.69 ± 0.14 μg/mL). On the basis of HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS profiling of metabolites, we identified major compounds such as Bergenin, Catechin, Arbutin, Gallic acid, Protocatechuic acid, Syringic acid, Hyperoside, Afzelechin, Methyl gallate, Paashaanolactone, Astilbin, Quercetin, Kaempferol-7-O-glucoside, Diosmetin, Phloretin, and Morin in methanol extract which has reported beneficial bioactivities.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides a plethora of scientific evidence that the crude extracts of B. pacumbis from Nepalese origin in different extracting solvents have shown significant potential on inhibiting free radicals as well as enzymes involved in digestion, skin related problems, and neurological disorders compared with the commercially available drugs.

LC-ESI-QTOF-MS for the Profiling of the Metabolites and in Vitro Enzymes Inhibition Activity of Bryophyllum pinnatum and Oxalis corniculata Collected from Ramechhap District of Nepal

The objective of this study was to profile the chemical components and biological activity analysis of crude extract of Bryophyllum pinnatum and Oxalis corniculata. Results revealed that the analyzed plant materials encompass the high amount of total phenolic and flavonoids content and have significant antioxidant activities. Furthermore, methanol extracts are the potential source of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, lipase, tyrosinase and elastase inhibitors. High resolution mass spectrometry revealed the presence of diverse metabolites such as quercetin 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside, myricetin 3-rhamnoside, bersaldegenin 1,3,5-orthoacetate, bryophyllin C, syringic acid, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and quercetin in B. pinnatum and isoorientin, swertisin, apigenin 7,4'-diglucoside, vitexin, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid, ethyl gallate, 3,3',4'-trihydroxy-5,7-dimethoxyflavone, and diosmetin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside in O. corniculata. Our finding suggested that these two plant species have high medicinal importance and are potential source of inhibitors for modern pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and cosmetics industries.

Chemical Characterization and Biological Properties of Royal Jelly Samples From the Mediterranean Area

Royal jelly (RJ) is a bee product that has high nutritional value and is beneficial for the human health, earning importance as a functional food. Thus, the characterization of its main biological properties is with high importance. In this work, 6 RJ samples obtained in Morocco, Portugal, and Spain were evaluated in terms of total phenol and flavone/flavonol contents; total protein; 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA); volatiles composition; antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; and inhibition of tyrosinase, xanthine oxidase (XO), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities. Total phenolic content ranged from 3 to 9 mg gallic acid equivalent/g RJ, and flavone/flavonol content from 0.1 to 0.5 mg quercetin equivalent/g RJ. 10-Hydroxy-2-decenoic acid content varied from 0.9% to 1.2% and total protein from 5.5% to 29.7%. Gas chromatography-flame ionization detector and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis showed RJ volatiles dominated by linolenic acid, 2-decenoic acid, and octanoic acid in variable amounts. The antioxidant activity was monitored through nitric oxide (NO) scavenging activity and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) scavenging capacity, where the IC50 ranged from 2.3 to 3.4 and 0.2 to 1.5 mg/mL, respectively. Anti-AChE activity IC50 ranged from 0.7 to 4.6 mg/mL, while XO inhibition IC50 ranged from 3.3 to 11.9 mg/mL. The results showed that phenols and flavonoids highly contributed to the RJ biological properties in contrast to 10-HDA and proteins.

Melochia corchorifolia extract inhibits melanogenesis in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells via activation of the ERK signaling

BACKGROUND

Numerous researches have focused on discovering available inhibitors of melanogenesis from natural medicinal plants with stable efficacy and safety to resolve cutaneous hyperpigmentary problems. Melochia corchorifolia Linn. (MC) has been used as folk medicine to treat various diseases. However, the effect of MC on melanogenesis remains unknown.

AIM

In this study, we investigated the effect of MC extract on melanogenesis and its underlying mechanisms in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells.

METHODS

B16F10 cells were treated with MC extract, and then, cell viability, melanin content, and tyrosinase activity were analyzed. The mRNA and protein expression of tyrosinase and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) were evaluated using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting, respectively. Phosphorylated or total protein levels in MC extract-induced signaling pathways were analyzed by Western blotting.

RESULTS

Treatment of B16F10 cells with MC extract inhibited melanin synthesis and intracellular tyrosinase activity in a dose-dependent manner with no cytotoxicity. Protein and mRNA expressions of tyrosinase and MITF were also significantly decreased by MC extract treatment. In addition, phosphorylated level of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) was obviously increased by MC extract, but AKT pathway was not activated. Inhibited ERK phosphorylation by pretreatment with a selective ERK inhibitor PD98059 significantly reversed the decreased melanin content induced by treatment with MC extract in B16F10 cells.

CONCLUSION

MC extract inhibits melanogenesis in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells through suppression of MITF-tyrosinase signaling pathway by ERK activation.

A comprehensive review on tyrosinase inhibitors

Tyrosinase is a multi-copper enzyme which is widely distributed in different organisms and plays an important role in the melanogenesis and enzymatic browning. Therefore, its inhibitors can be attractive in cosmetics and medicinal industries as depigmentation agents and also in food and agriculture industries as antibrowning compounds. For this purpose, many natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic inhibitors have been developed by different screening methods to date. This review has focused on the tyrosinase inhibitors discovered from all sources and biochemically characterised in the last four decades.

Antioxidant, metabolic enzymes inhibitory ability of Torreya grandis kernels, and phytochemical profiling identified by HPLC-QTOF-MS/MS

In this study, the antioxidant activities, α-glucosidase and tyrosinase inhibitory ability of Torreya grandis kernels (TGK) were performed. Samples were extracted with various polarity of ethanol, and the major phytochemical profile was characterized. The results showed that 70% of ethanol extract gave the richest phenolics and flavonoids. The strongest DPPH· and ABTS·⁺ scavenging ability, as well as the best inhibition on tyrosinase and α-glucosidase was also detected on 70% of ethanol extract. Among the fractions of 70% of ethanol extract, the ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) owned the highest phenolics, flavonoids, and the best DPPH· and ABTS·⁺ scavenging ability, and tyrosinase inhibition. Unexpectedly, the dichloromethane fraction possessed the strongest inhibition on α-glucosidase, which was much greater than that of acarbose. HPLC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis result to the characterization of 19 compounds from EAF. The results implied that TGK can be a potential source of natural antioxidants, α-glucosidase and tyrosinase inhibitors. Practical applications The kernels of T. grandis are one of the precious nuts in the world, and the extracts were advertised to show a variety of biological activities and pharmacological effects. However, researches on the phytochemical constituents and bioactivities are fewer. In this study, TGK was found to show good potency in antioxidant, α-glucosidase and tyrosinase inhibitory activities. The 70% ethanol is the best solvent for extracting above mentioned active components, and ethyl acetate can be the suitable enriching solvent. In addition, the predominant phytochemical compounds in EAF were characterized. Therefore, this research can help to the performance of further research and application of TGK in functional products.

Tyrosinase Inhibition Antioxidant Effect and Cytotoxicity Studies of the Extracts of Cudrania tricuspidata Fruit Standardized in Chlorogenic Acid

In the present study, various extracts of C. tricuspidata fruit were prepared with varying ethanol contents and evaluated for their biomarker and biological properties. The 80% ethanolic extract showed the best tyrosinase inhibitory activity, while the 100% ethanolic extract showed the best total phenolics and flavonoids contents. The HPLC method was applied to analyze the chlorogenic acid in C. tricuspidata fruit extracts. The results suggest that the observed antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of C. tricuspidata fruit extract could partially be attributed to the presence of marker compounds in the extract. In this study, we present an analytical method for standardization and optimization of C. tricuspidata fruit preparations. Further investigations are warranted to confirm the in vivo pharmacological activity of C. tricuspidata fruit extract and its active constituents and assess the safe use of the plant for the potential development of the extract as a skin depigmentation agent.

Possible Uses of Plants of the Genus Asphodelus in Oral Medicine

Among the many plants used in traditional medicine we have the plants of the genus Asphodelus, which are present in the Mediterranean area in North Africa and South East Asia, and have been used by indigenous peoples until recently for various pathologies, including: Psoriasis, alopecia areata, acne, burns, nephrolithiasis, toothache, and local inflammation. The scientific literature over the last five years has investigated the various effects of the metabolites extracted from plants of the genus Asphodelus, paying attention to the diuretic, antihypertensive, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, and it also has begun to investigate the antitumor properties on tumor cell lines. Studies have been identified through bibliographic research on electronic databases. A total of 574 records were identified on the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCO databases. After having proceeded to the screening of the articles with the application of the eligibility criteria (all the articles pertaining to the issue Asphodelus), we arrived at a number of 163 articles, and then after the elimination of overlaps, to 82 articles. There are 11 articles which investigate the possible uses of plants of the genus Asphodelus in oral medicine. In oral medicine, the possible uses investigated by the scientific literature are for the treatment of neoplastic (melanoma and oral cancer), viral (herpetic viruses), and microbial diseases (candida, bacteriosis, leishmaniasis), and in the affection of the skin.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of Asphodelus microcarpus methanolic extracts

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Asphodelus microcarpus is an important medicinal plant belonging to family Liliaceae. This plant is used in traditional medicine to treat abscesses by local application of the powder; the roots are used against white spots, and specifically used for ear pain.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the present study was to assess the in vitro antioxidant effects and the in vivo anti-inflammatory activity of the different parts methanolic extracts of the Asphodelus microcarpus: aerial part (APME), leaf (LME), stem flowers (SFME) and root (RME).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The antioxidant potency of extracts was evaluated by DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-l-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS, β-carotene bleaching assays, iron chelating, free hydroxyl radicals (HO^•) assays, and reducing power. The anti-inflammatory effect of the extracts was evaluated using the carrageenan induced rat paw edema and xylene-induced ear edema in mice.

RESULTS

The estimation of polyphenols and flavonoids showed that the leave methanolic extract contains a high amount of polyphenols and flavonoids: 755.3 ± 0.036 mg Gallic acid equivalent and 42.2 ± 0.043 mg Rutin equivalent/g of dried material, respectively. Oral administration of the APME and RME extract produced significant (p < 0.05) anti-edematogenic effect with a dose of 500 mg/kg in the carrageenan induced paw edema after 6 h (58.04%, 58.75%, respectively). APME, LME; SFME and RME extracts at 100, 300 and 500 mg/kg, exhibited significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of xylene induced ear edema.

CONCLUSION

the present study confirms the use of A. microcarpus in traditional medicine as anti-inflammatory agent.

Efficiency of Skin Whitening Cream Containing Etlingera elatior Flower and Leaf Extracts in Volunteers

Our previous research demonstrated that Etlingera elatior possesses whitening and anti-aging properties and also contains bioactive ingredients for cosmeceuticals. Therefore, this research work aimed to evaluate the efficiency of whitening cream containing both the flower and leaf extracts of E. elatior in human volunteers and their degree of skin irritation. Both the flower and leaf extracts were formulated as a cosmetic called “FL1 cream”, which was assessed for its physical properties and underwent an accelerated stability test. The FL1 cream was also evaluated for skin irritation and its skin whitening effect among 24 healthy volunteers who used it for four weeks. The FL1 cream demonstrated good physical stability under the various conditions for three months, along with six cycles of heating/cooling. The irritation analysis showed that irritation reactions were absent in all volunteers. The efficiency of FL1 cream in improving the appearance of skin whitening was demonstrated by a significant (p < 0.05) and continuous decrease in melanin content compared with the initial value. Additionally, the L* value was significantly and continuously increased after application of the FL1 cream. The highest melanin reduction was 6.67%. The FL1 cream containing E. elatior extracts can be used as a whitening cream in cosmetics.

Five individual polyphenols as tyrosinase inhibitors: Inhibitory activity, synergistic effect, action mechanism, and molecular docking

Polyphenols can inhibit the enzymatic browning in food, but their indistinct synergistic effect and conformational change have limited their applications. In this paper, the mixture of quercetin, cinnamic acid and ferulic acid (Group 11, K_I = 0.239 mM) possessed a higher inhibition ability than quercetin (K_I = 0.361 mM), which could promote the spontaneous binding process. The final Group 11-tyrosinase complex is more stable, and the hydrophobic effect is the major driving force during the binding process. Moreover, there is not a direct relationship between the destruction of secondary structures and catalytic activity of tyrosinase. The interaction between ferulic acid and tyrosinase could destroy the secondary structures of enzyme but it had little impact on the tyrosinase activity. Molecular docking suggested that three polyphenols from Group 11 have synergistic effect on tyrosinase. This study provides new perspectives about the development of tyrosinase inhibitors in food products.

Antioxidative, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anti-Aging Properties of Mycosporine-Like Amino Acids: Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms in the Protection of Skin-Aging

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes photoaging of the skin and induces a number of disorders, including sunburn, fine and coarse wrinkles, and skin cancer risk. Therefore, the application of sunscreen has gained much attention to reduce the harmful effects of UV irradiation on our skin. Recently, there has been a growing demand for the replacement of chemical sunscreens with natural UV-absorbing compounds. Mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs), promising alternative natural UV-absorbing compounds, are a group of widely distributed, low molecular-weight, water-soluble molecules that can absorb UV radiation and disperse the absorbed energy as heat, without generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). More than 30 MAAs have been characterized, from a variety of organisms. In addition to their UV-absorbing properties, there is substantial evidence that MAAs have the potential to protect against skin aging, including antioxidative activity, anti-inflammatory activity, inhibition of protein-glycation, and inhibition of collagenase activity. This review will provide an overview of MAAs, as potential anti-aging ingredients, beginning with their structure, before moving on to discuss the most recent experimental observations, including the molecular and cellular mechanisms through which MAAs might protect the skin. In particular, we focus on the potential anti-aging activity of mycosporine-2-glycine (M2G).

Chemical fingerprint and bioactivity evaluation of Globularia orientalis L. and Globularia trichosantha Fisch. & C. A. Mey. using non-targeted HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS approach

INTRODUCTION

In the quest for new sources of biologically-active compounds, the chemical, and biological profiles of two Globularia species (G. trichosantha Fisch. & C. A. Mey and G. orientalis L.) were investigated.

METHODOLOGY

Chemical profiles were evaluated by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionisation and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS), as well as by their total phenolic, flavonoids, and phenolic acids contents. The antioxidant abilities of the investigated extracts were done using different assays including free radical scavenging [1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS)], reducing power (cupric reducing antioxidant capacity and ferric reducing antioxidant power), phosphomolybdenum, and metal chelating. Inhibitory potential against key enzymes involved in neurodegenerative diseases (cholinesterases; AChE, and BChE), diabetes (α-glucosidase and α-amylase), hyperpigmentation (tyrosinase) and obesity (pancreatic lipase) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Globularia trichosantha and G. orientalis extracts showed remarkable antioxidant properties, with the water extracts being a better source of antioxidant compounds. Both species showed remarkable inhibitory effects against the target enzymes. However, for both species, only the acetyl acetate and methanolic extracts were potent against cholinesterases and lipase.

CONCLUSION

HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS analysis revealed the presence of 107 compounds from G. trichosantha and G. orientalis, among which, 43 compounds have been preliminarily characterised for the first time from the Globulariaceae family. To date, this study can be considered as the most comprehensive research focused on the characterisation of G. trichosantha and G. orientalis. Results amassed from this study tend to show that these plants represent a rich source of biologically active compounds which can be further explored and validated for their therapeutic potential.

Chemical composition and enzyme inhibition of Phytolacca dioica L. seeds extracts

Phytolacca, which belongs to the family of Phytolaccaceae, are known for their use in popular medicine. Bioactivity of five extracts from Phytolacca dioica seeds were evaluated in four bioassays. A selected group of compounds from the extract that displayed the best bioactivity was analysed. The ethyl acetate extract (EAE) possessed the highest content of phenolics, the highest inhibitory activity on the tyrosinase and xanthine oxidase enzymes and showed a high antioxidant activity. HPLC-DAD-MS was employed to identify the phenolics profile of the most active one (EAE). HSCCC analysis of the EAE led to the isolation of phytolaccoside B and a mixture of 4 isomers, isoamericanol B1, B2, C1 and C2. These isoamericanol isomers presented activity against tyrosinase and xanthine oxidase. Our results revealed for the first time an interesting biological activity of the extract and isolated compounds from P. dioica seeds, which could be considered as a source of bioactive molecules.

Phytochemical composition and the cholinesterase and xanthine oxidase inhibitory properties of seed extracts from the Washingtonia filifera palm fruit

The chemical composition and biological properties of palm Washingtonia filifera (Lindl.) H. Wendl. seeds are seldom studied.