Ferulic Acid and Eugenol Have Different Abilities to Maintain Their Inhibitory Activity Against Listeria monocytogenes in Emulsified Systems

Exploring Phenolic Compounds in Crop By-Products for Cosmetic Efficacy

Phenolic compounds represent a group of secondary metabolites that serve essential functions in plants. Beyond their positive impact on plants, these phenolic metabolites, often referred to as polyphenols, possess a range of biological properties that can promote skin health. Scientific research indicates that topically using phenolics derived from plants can be advantageous, but their activity and stability highly depend on storage of the source material and the extraction method. These compounds have the ability to relieve symptoms and hinder the progression of different skin diseases. Because they come from natural sources and have minimal toxicity, phenolic compounds show potential in addressing the causes and effects of skin aging, skin diseases, and various types of skin damage, such as wounds and burns. Hence, this review provides extensive information on the particular crops from which by-product phenolic compounds can be sourced, also emphasizing the need to conduct research according to proper plant material storage practices and the choice of the best extracting method, along with an examination of their specific functions and the mechanisms by which they act to protect skin.

Syringeable atorvastatin loaded eugenol enriched PEGylated cubosomes in-situ gel for the intra-pocket treatment of periodontitis: statistical optimization and clinical assessment

Atorvastatin calcium (ATV) is a well-known anti-hyperlipidemic drug currently being recognized for possessing an anti-inflammatory effect. Introducing it as a novel remedy for periodontitis treatment necessitates developing a syringeable modified delivery system capable of targeting inflammation within the periodontal pockets. Thus, a 33 Box-Behnken design was used to generate eugenol enriched PEGylated cubosomes. Based on the desirability function, the optimized formulation (OEEPC) was selected exhibiting a solubilization efficiency (SE%) of 97.71 ± 0.49%, particle size (PS) of 135.20 ± 1.11 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.09 ± 0.006, zeta potential (ZP) of -28.30 ± 1.84 mV and showing a sustained drug release over 12 h. It displayed a cubic structure under the transmission electron microscope, furthermore, it was stable upon storage for up to 30 days. Hence, it was loaded into an optimum syringeable in-situ gel (ISG) which displayed the desired periodontal gelation temperature (34 ± 0.70 °C) and an adequate gelation time (46 ± 2.82 sec), it also released approximately 75% of the drug within 72 h. Clinical evaluation of the ISG showed a promising percentage reduction of about 58.33% in probing depth, 90% in the bleeding index, 81.81% in the plaque index, and 70.21% in gingival levels of transforming growth factor-β1. This proved that the formulated syringeable intra-pocket delivery system of ATV is an efficient candidate for diminishing inflammation in periodontitis.

New Functional Bionanocomposites by Combining Hybrid Host-Guest Systems with a Fully Biobased Poly(lactic acid)/Poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PLA/PBSA) Binary Blend

In this study, we have developed innovative polymer nanocomposites by integrating magnesium-aluminum layered double hydroxide (LDH)-based nanocarriers modified with functional molecules into a fully biobased poly(lactic acid)/poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PLA/PBSA) matrix. These LDH-based hybrid host-guest systems contain bioactive compounds like rosmarinic acid, ferulic acid, and glycyrrhetinic acid, known for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The bioactive molecules can be gradually released from the nanocarriers over time, allowing for sustained and controlled delivery in various applications, such as active packaging or cosmetics. The morphological analysis of the polymer composites, prepared using a discontinuous mechanical mixer, revealed the presence of macroaggregates and nano-lamellae at the polymer interface. This resulted in an enhanced water vapor permeability compared to the original blend. Furthermore, the migration kinetics of active molecules from the thin films confirmed a controlled release mechanism based on their immobilization within the lamellar system. Scaling-up experiments evaluated the materials' morphology and mechanical and thermal properties. Remarkably, stretching deformation and a higher shear rate during the mixing process enhanced the dispersion and distribution of the nanocarriers, as confirmed by the favorable mechanical properties of the materials.

Polyhydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) with Phenolic Acids for Active Food Packaging

PHBV films incorporating 3, 6 and 9% ferulic acid (FA) or p-coumaric acid (PCA) were obtained by melt blending and compression moulding. The films' microstructures and thermal behaviours were analysed as well as their mechanical, optical and barrier properties. The overall and specific migration of the materials in different food simulants was also characterised. FA was homogeneously mixed with the polymer, whereas PCA was mainly dispersed as fine particles in the PHBV matrices due to its higher melting point. These structural features promoted differences in the physical properties of the films depending on the compound concentration. As the concentration of both compounds rose, the barrier capacity of the films to oxygen, and to a lesser extent water vapour, was enhanced. While FA promoted the extensibility of the films, 9% PCA enhanced their brittleness. Both compounds affected the crystallisation pattern of the polymer, promoting smaller crystalline formations and a slight decrease in crystallinity. Although the overall migration of every film formulation was lower than the overall migration limit (OML), the release of active compounds was dependent on the food simulant; almost total release was noted in ethanol containing simulants but was more limited in aqueous systems. Therefore, these films could be used as food contact materials, contributing to extending the food's shelf life.

Egyptian propolis extract for functionalization of cellulose nanofiber/poly(vinyl alcohol) porous hydrogel along with characterization and biological applications

Bee propolis is one of the most common natural extracts and has gained significant interest in biomedicine due to its high content of phenolic acids and flavonoids, which are responsible for the antioxidant activity of natural products. The present study report that the propolis extract (PE) was produced by ethanol in the surrounding environment. The obtained PE was added at different concentrations to cellulose nanofiber (CNF)/poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and subjected to freezing thawing and freeze drying methods to develop porous bioactive matrices. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations displayed that the prepared samples had an interconnected porous structure with pore sizes in the range of 10-100 μm. The high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) results of PE showed around 18 polyphenol compounds, with the highest amounts of hesperetin (183.7 µg/mL), chlorogenic acid (96.9 µg/mL) and caffeic acid (90.2 µg/mL). The antibacterial activity results indicated that both PE and PE-functionalized hydrogels exhibited a potential antimicrobial effects against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans. The in vitro test cell culture experiments indicated that the cells on the PE-functionalized hydrogels had the greatest viability, adhesion, and spreading of cells. Altogether, these data highlight the interesting effect of propolis bio-functionalization to enhance the biological features of CNF/PVA hydrogel as a functional matrix for biomedical applications.

The deleterious effect of xylene-induced ear edema in rats: Protective role of dexketoprofen trometamol transdermal invasomes via inhibiting the oxidative stress/NF-κB/COX-2 pathway

Pain and inflammation could have a negative impact on a patient's quality of life and performance, causing them to sleep less. Dexketoprofen trometamol (DKT) is a water-soluble, nonselective NSAIDs. Because DKT is quickly eliminated in the urine after oral delivery, its efficacy is limited and must be taken repeatedly throughout the day. The main ambition of this work is to develop and characterize the potential of invasomes to enhance the transdermal transport of DKT to achieve efficient anti-inflammatory and pain management. The optimum formulation (C1) showed the least %RE (53.29 ± 2.68 %), the highest %EE (86.51 ± 1.05 %), and spherical nanosized vesicles (211.9 ± 0.57 nm) with (PDI) of 0.353 ± 0.01 and (ZP) of -19.15 ± 2.45 mV. DKT flux and deposition in stratum corneum, epidermal, and dermal skin layers were significantly augmented by 2.6 and 3.51 folds, respectively, from the optimum invasomal gel formulation (C1-G) compared to DKT conventional gel (DKT-G). The anti-inflammatory activity of C1-G was evaluated using a model of xylene-induced ear edema in rats. Xylene exposure upregulated the ear expression of COX-2 level and MPO activity. Xylene also significantly increased the ear NF-κB p65, TNF-α, IL-Iβ, and MDA levels. Furthermore, xylene induced oxidative stress, as evidenced by a significant decrease in ear GSH and serum TAC levels. These impacts were drastically improved by applying C1-G compared to rats that received DKT-G and plain invasomal gel formulation (plain C1-G). The histopathological findings imparted substantiation to the biochemical and molecular investigations. Thereby, C1-G could be a promising transdermal drug delivery system to improve the anti-inflammatory and pain management of DKT.

Antioxidants in Sunscreens: Which and What For?

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrogen species (RNS), resulting in skin damage. Cosmetic industries have adopted a strategy to incorporate antioxidants in sunscreen formulations to prevent or minimize UV-induced oxidative damage, boost photoprotection effectiveness, and mitigate skin photoaging. Many antioxidants are naturally derived, mainly from terrestrial plants; however, marine organisms have been increasingly explored as a source of new potent antioxidant molecules. This work aims to characterize the frequency of the use of antioxidants in commercial sunscreens. Photoprotective formulations currently marketed in parapharmacies and pharmacies were analyzed with respect to the composition described on the label. As a result, pure compounds with antioxidant activity were found. The majority of sunscreen formulations contained antioxidants, with vitamin E and its derivatives the most frequent. A more thorough analysis of these antioxidants is also provided, unveiling the top antioxidant ingredients found in sunscreens. A critical appraisal of the scientific evidence regarding their effectiveness is also performed. In conclusion, this work provides an up-to-date overview of the use of antioxidants in commercial sunscreens for a better understanding of the advantages associated with their use in photoprotective formulations.

Active Starch-Polyester Bilayer Films with Surface-Incorporated Ferulic Acid

Bilayer films of cassava starch-based (with 10% gellan gum) and polylactic (PLA): Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) polyester blend (with 75% PLA) monolayers were obtained by melt-blending and compression-molding, and the subsequent thermocompressing of both monolayers. Ferulic acid (FA) was incorporated into the polyester sheet by spraying and drying. Films were characterized in terms of their microstructure and functional properties throughout two months of storage at 25 °C and 53% relative humidity. The laminates exhibited improved tensile and barrier properties compared to the respective monolayers, which makes them more adequate for food packaging purposes. Surface incorporation of ferulic acid did not significantly modify the barrier and mechanical properties of the films while providing them with antioxidant and antibacterial capacity when applied in aqueous systems, where a complete release of active compounds occurred. The physical properties of the bilayers and layer thermo-sealing were stable throughout storage. Likewise, the antioxidant and antimicrobial active properties were preserved throughout storage. Therefore, these active bilayers represent a sustainable packaging alternative to non-biodegradable, non-recyclable synthetic laminates for food packaging purposes, which could extend the shelf-life of food due to their antioxidant and antibacterial properties.

An HPLC method for simultaneous quantification of metformin and ferulic acid in solid dosage forms

Metformin is one of the most commonly used drugs in the world for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, while ferulic acid is a molecule that stands out for its antioxidant potential. Recent studies demonstrate hypoglycemic synergy between these molecules. The objective of this study is to develop and validate an analytical methodology by HPLC for the simultaneous quantification of these drugs in pharmaceutical formulations. The method used a octadecylsilane column and a mobile phase composed of 6 mM sodium lauryl sulfate in 15 mM phosphate buffer:acetonitrile (65:35). Ferulic acid and metformin were monitored at 232 nm, with mobile phase flow rate at 1 mL/min and oven temperature at 40°C. The method was linear in the range of 5 to 25 μg/mL for both molecules. In the presence of degradation products satisfactory selectivity were achieved. Accuracy values were close to 100% and standard deviations in precision were less than 2%. In the robustness evaluation, the proposed variations did not interfere with the quantification. Therefore, it is concluded that the present method can be safely applied to the quality control of ferulic acid and metformin raw materials, as well as when they are combined in pharmaceutical formulations. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Genetic, physiological, and cellular heterogeneities of bacterial pathogens in food matrices: Consequences for food safety

In complex food systems, bacteria live in heterogeneous microstructures, and the population displays phenotypic heterogeneities at the single-cell level. This review provides an overview of spatiotemporal drivers of phenotypic heterogeneity of bacterial pathogens in food matrices at three levels. The first level is the genotypic heterogeneity due to the possibility for various strains of a given species to contaminate food, each of them having specific genetic features. Then, physiological heterogeneities are induced within the same strain, due to specific microenvironments and heterogeneous adaptative responses to the food microstructure. The third level of phenotypic heterogeneity is related to cellular heterogeneity of the same strain in a specific microenvironment. Finally, we consider how these phenotypic heterogeneities at the single-cell level could be implemented in mathematical models to predict bacterial behavior and help ensure microbiological food safety.

Improvement of Ferulic Acid Antioxidant Activity by Multiple Emulsions: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation

Ferulic acid is a derivative of cinnamic acid showing efficacious anti-oxidant activity. It catalyzes the stable phenoxy radical formation, upon absorption of ultraviolet light, giving the strength to ferulic acid for terminating free radical chain reactions. Ultraviolet rays are one of the most dangerous factors that daily assault the skin, causing excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are regarded to be important contributors to a variety of cutaneous alterations. The skin possesses endogenous antioxidant defense systems, but the excess of ROS leads to an oxidant–antioxidant imbalance. Although ferulic acid is daily introduced in human organism with the diet, its bioavailability after oral administration is poor, particularly in the skin. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate three types of emulsions (W/O/W multiple emulsions and two simple emulsions) as suitable formulations for topical application of the active compound. In vitro studies were performed to investigate the stability and release profiles of these systems. Multiple emulsions showed great stability and the best ability to carry and release ferulic acid. In vivo evaluations highlighted their best capability to treat UV-B-induced erythema. These findings suggested multiple emulsions as an innovative and more efficient vehicle for topical application of ferulic acid.

Enhancement of the antioxidant and skin permeation properties of eugenol by the esterification of eugenol to new derivatives

The aim of the study was to determine the antioxidant activity and assess the lipophilicity and skin penetration of eugenyl chloroacetate (EChA), eugenyl dichloroacetate (EDChA), and eugenyl trichloroacetate (ETChA). Identification of the obtained products was based on gas chromatography (GC), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR/ATR), gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and the analysis of 13C-NMR and 1H-NMR spectra. The antioxidative capacity of the derivatives obtained was determined by the DPPH free radical reduction method, while the octanol/water partition coefficient (shake-flask method) was tested to determine the lipophilicity of these compounds. In the next stage of testing EDChA and ETChA-(compounds characterized by the highest degree of free radical scavenging), the penetration of DPPH through pig skin and its accumulation in the skin were evaluated. For comparison, penetration studies of eugenol alone as well as dichloroacetic acid (DChAA) and trichloroacetic acid (TChAA) were also carried out. The antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, and Folin-Ciocalteu methods) of the fluid that penetrated through pig skin was also evaluated. The in vitro pig skin penetration study showed that eugenol derivatives are particularly relevant for topical application. The obtained derivatives were characterized by a high level of antioxidant activity estimated after 24 h of conducting the experiment, which indicates long-term protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the deeper layers of the skin.

Rapid assessment and prediction of the efficiency of two preservatives against S. aureus in cosmetic products using High Content Screening-Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy

Most cosmetic products are susceptible to microbiological spoilage due to contaminations that could happen during fabrication or by consumer’s repetitive manipulation. The composition of cosmetic products must guarantee efficient bacterial inactivation all along with the product shelf life, which is usually assessed by challenge-tests. A challenge-test consists in inoculating specific bacteria, i.e. Staphylococcus aureus, in the formula and then investigating the bacterial log reduction over time. The main limitation of this method is relative to the time-consuming protocol, where 30 days are needed to obtain results. In this study, we have proposed a rapid alternative method coupling High Content Screening—Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (HCS-CLSM), image analysis and modeling. It consists in acquiring real-time S. aureus inactivation kinetics on short-time periods (typically 4h) and in predicting the efficiency of preservatives on longer scale periods (up to 7 days). The action of two preservatives, chlorphenesin and benzyl alcohol, was evaluated against S. aureus at several concentrations in a cosmetic matrix. From these datasets, we compared two secondary models to determine the logarithm reduction time (Dc) for each preservative concentration. Afterwards, we used two primary inactivation models to predict log reductions for up to 7 days and we compared them to observed log reductions. The IQ model better fits datasets and the Q value gives information about the matrix level of interference.