Naringenin and Its Derivatives-Health-Promoting Phytobiotic against Resistant Bacteria and Fungi in Humans

Critical review on plant-derived quorum sensing signaling inhibitors in pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a biofilm-forming organism with complex quorum mechanisms (Las, Rhl, PQS, and IQS), poses an imminent danger to the healthcare sector and renders current treatment options for chemotherapy ineffectual. The pathogen's diverse pathogenicity, antibiotic resistance, and biofilms make it difficult to eradicate it effectively. Quorum sensing, a complex system reliant on cell density, controls P. aeruginosa's pathogenesis. Quorum-sensing genes are key components of P. aeruginosa's pathogenic arsenal, and their expression determines how severe the spread of infection becomes. Over the past ten years, there has been a noticeable increase in the quest for and development of new antimicrobial medications. Quorum sensing may be an effective treatment for infections triggered by bacteria. Introducing quorum-sensing inhibitors as an anti-virulent strategy might be an intriguing therapeutic method that can be effectively employed along with current medications. Amongst the several speculated processes, a unique anti-virulence strategy using anti-quorum sensing and antibiofilm medications for targeting pseudomonal infestations seems to be at the forefront. Due to their noteworthy quorum quenching capabilities, biologically active phytochemicals have become more well-known in the realm of science in this context. Recent research showed how different phytochemical quorum quenching actions affect P. aeruginosa's QS-dependent pathogenicity. This review focuses on the most current data supporting the implementation of plant bio-actives to treat P.aeruginosa-associated diseases, as well as the benefits and future recommendationsof employing them in anti-virulence therapies as a supplementary drug development approach towards conventional antibiotic approaches.

Phytochemical fingerprint revealing antibacterial and antioxidant activities of endemic banana cultivars in Southeast Asia

This study explores the bioactive secondary metabolite profiles of the peels of three major cultivars of bananas (Musa acuminata and Musa balbisiana). These cultivars are primarily grown in Southeast Asia and are widely consumed due to their rich nutritional and fiber content. The research utilizes advanced analytical techniques, specifically HPLC-DAD-q-TOF-MS/MS, in conjunction with both univariate and multivariate statistical analyses, to analyze the ethanolic extracts of the banana peels. This study identifies phenolic acids, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins as significant contributors to the differentiation of the cultivars. The secondary metabolites rutin, chlorogenic acid, and gentisic acid are pinpointed as the key discriminants. Moreover, the research demonstrates a synergistic contribution of certain phytochemicals to the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the banana peel extracts. The fingerprint profiling tools introduced in this study offer a reliable method for identifying metabolite biomarkers for the discrimination of banana cultivars.

Naringenin Promotes Gastrointestinal Motility in Mice by Impacting the SCF/c-Kit Pathway and Gut Microbiota

Naringenin (NRG) is widely found in citrus fruits and has anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and immunomodulatory effects. Previous studies have shown that NRG promotes gastrointestinal motility in mice constipation models, but there are few systematic evaluations of its effects on normal animals. This study first clarified the promotive effects of NRG on gastric emptying and small intestine propulsion (p < 0.01). NRG can also regulate the release of gastrointestinal hormones, including enhancing gastrin (GAS) and motilin (MTL) (p < 0.01), while reducing vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) secretion (p < 0.01). Using NRG to stimulate the isolated stomach, duodenum, and colon showed similar promotive effects to those observed in vivo (p < 0.01). A Western blot analysis indicated that this effect may be mediated by increasing the expression of stem cell factor (SCF) and its receptor (c-Kit) in these three segments, thus regulating their downstream pathways. It is worth noting that NRG can also increase the proportion of beneficial bacteria (Planococcaceae, Bacteroides acidifaciens, Clostridia_UCG-014) in the intestine and reduce the quantity of harmful bacteria (Staphylococcus). These findings provide a new basis for the application of NRG.

Computational-Based Polyphenol Therapy for Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer: Naringin Coamorphous Systems for Solubility and Bioavailability Enhancement

In this research, we utilized molecular simulations to create co-amorphous materials (CAMs) of ceritinib (CRT) with the objective of improving its solubility and bioavailability. We identified naringin (NRG) as a suitable co-former for CRT CAMs based on binding energy and intermolecular interactions through computational modeling. We used the solvent evaporation method to produce CAMs of CRT and NRG, expecting to enhance both solubility and bioavailability simultaneously. The solid-state characterization using techniques like differential scanning calorimeter, X-ray powder diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy affirmed the formation of a single amorphous phase and the presence of intermolecular interactions between CRT and NRG in the CAMs. These materials remained physically stable for up to six months under dry conditions at 40 °C. Moreover, the CAMs demonstrated significant improvements in the solubility and dissolution of CRT (specifically in the ratio CRT:NRG 1:2). This, in turn, led to an increase in cytotoxicity, apoptotic cells, and G0/G1 phase inhibition in A549 cells compared to CRT alone. Furthermore, CRT permeability is also improved twofold, as estimated by the everted gut sac method. The enhanced solubility of CAMs also positively affected the pharmacokinetic parameters. When compared to the physical mixture, the CAMs of CRT:NRG 2:1 exhibited a 2.1-fold increase in CRT exposure (AUC0-t) and a 2.4-fold increase in plasma concentration (Cmax).

Efficient biotransformation of naringenin to naringenin α-glucoside, a novel α-glucosidase inhibitor, by amylosucrase from Deinococcus wulumuquiensis

Amylosucrase (ASase) efficiently biosynthesizes α-glucoside using flavonoids as acceptor molecules and sucrose as a donor molecule. Here, ASase from Deinococcus wulumuqiensis (DwAS) biosynthesized more naringenin α-glucoside (NαG) with sucrose and naringenin as donor and acceptor molecules, respectively, than other ASases from Deinococcus sp. The biotransformation rate of DwAS to NαG was 21.3% compared to 7.1-16.2% for other ASases. Docking simulations showed that the active site of DwAS was more accessible to naringenin than those of others. The 217th valine in DwAS corresponded to the 221st isoleucine in Deinococcus geothermalis AS (DgAS), and the isoleucine possibly prevented naringenin from accessing the active site. The DwAS-V217I mutant had a significantly lower biosynthetic rate of NαG than DwAS. The kcat/Km value of DwAS with naringenin as the donor was significantly higher than that of DgAS and DwAS-V217I. In addition, NαG inhibited human intestinal α-glucosidase more efficiently than naringenin.

Unveiling the multifaceted antiproliferative efficacy of Cichorium endivia root extract by dual modulation of apoptotic and inflammatory genes, inducing cell cycle arrest, and targeting COX-2

Chicory (Cichorium endivia L. divaricatum) is a renowned medicinal plant traditionally used for various ailments, yet the pharmacological potential of its roots, particularly in terms of antitumor activity, remains elusive. In the present study, we explore, for the first time, the metabolomic profile of ethanolic extract from Cichorium endivia roots (CIR) and further unveil its antiproliferative potential. The untargeted phytochemical analysis UPLC/T-TOF-MS/MS identified 131 metabolites in the CIR extract, covering acids, amino acids, flavonoids, alkaloids, nucleotides, and carbohydrates. The antiproliferative activity of the CIR extract was tested in 14 cancer cell lines, revealing significant cytotoxicity (IC50: 2.85-29.15 μg mL-1) and a high selectivity index. Among the cells examined, the CIR extract recorded the most potent antiproliferative activity and selectivity toward HepG2 and Panc-1 cells, with an IC50 of 2.85 μg mL-1 and 3.86 μg mL-1, respectively, and SI > 10. Insights into the mode of action of the antiproliferative activity revealed that CIR extract induces cell arrest in the S phase while diminishing cell distribution in the G0/G1 and G2/M phases in HepG-2 and Panc-1 cells. Flow cytometric and RT-PCR analysis revealed that the CIR extract significantly triggers apoptosis and modulates the expression of pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic genes. Furthermore, the CIR extract exhibited a pronounced anti-inflammatory activity, as evidenced by down-regulating key cytokines in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells and selectively inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme. Finally, the CIR extract showed a robust total antioxidant capacity, together with potent free radicals and metal scavenging properties, highlighting its role in alleviating oxidative stress. Taken together, this study highlights the multifaceted therapeutic potential of CIR extract as a natural-based antitumor supplement.

Citrus flavonoids-loaded chitosan derivatives-route nanofilm as drug delivery systems for cutaneous wound healing

This study focuses on creating new forms of biomimetic nanofiber composites by combining copolymerizing and electrospinning approaches in the field of nanomedicine. The process involved utilizing the melt polymerization of proline (Pr) and hydroxyl proline (Hyp) to synthesize polymers based on Pr (PPE) and Hyp (PHPE). These polymers were then used in a grafting copolymerization process with chitosan (CS) to produce PHPC (1560 ± 81.08 KDa). A novel electrospun nanofiber scaffold was then produced using PHPC and/or CS, hyaluronic acid, polyvinyl alcohol, and naringenin (NR) as a loading drug. Finally, Mouse Dermal Fibroblast (MDF) cells were introduced to the wound dressing and assessed their therapeutic potential for wound healing in rats. The scaffolds were characterized by FTIR, NMR, DSC, and SEM analysis, which confirmed the amino acid grafting, loading drug, and porous and nanofibrous structures (>225 nm). The results showed that the PHPC-based scaffolds were more effective for swelling/absorption of wound secretions, had more elasticity/elongation, faster drug release, more MDF-cytocompatibility, and antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant S. aureus compared to CS-based scaffolds. The in vivo studies showed that NR in combination with MDF can accelerate cell migration/proliferation, and remodeling phases of wound healing in both PHPC/CS-based scaffolds. Moreover, PHPC-based scaffolds promote collagen content, and better wound contraction, epithelialization, and neovascularization than CS-based, showing potential as wound-dressing.

Effects of Antimicrobial Flavonoids Against Representative Bacteria and Fungi: A Review of the Literature

INTRODUCTION

 Effective medications are becoming more necessary to combat the global rise in antimicrobial resistance. The findings that some flavonoids have antibacterial properties have urged interest in flavonoid research. The aim of this work was to investigate the inhibitory properties of fisetin, fisetinidin, 7,3`,4`-trihydroxyflavone (THF), and 7,3`,4`-trihydroxyflavonol (THF-) against selected pathogenic bacteria and fungi and to review the literature on relevant compounds.

METHODS

 An in vitro experiment was performed on 19 organisms (gram-positive, gram-negative, and yeast fungi) using varying concentrations (100-1000 ug/mL) of fisetin, fisetinidin, THF, and THF-. Using the agar well diffusion method. The in vitro activity of flavonoid compounds against gram-positive, gram-negative, and yeasts was assessed using a serial dilution of the four compounds against organism suspensions (50 µL of 0.5 McFarland). Inoculated agar plates were incubated aerobically at 37oC. The results of inhibition were recorded after 24, 48, and 72 hours.

RESULTS

Various classes of flavonoids from different sources have been reviewed for their antimicrobial effects. They showed various inhibitory reactions against a plethora of gram-positive, gram-negative, and yeast organisms. In the present study, the selected four compounds have shown varying antibacterial effects, as have the reviewed flavonoids from the literature. With minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 100 ug/mL to 1000 ug/mL, the substances fisetin, fisetinidin, THF, and THF- demonstrated inhibitory action against the examined species. The main activity was against Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Acinetobacter, Proteus, and Pseudomonas species. Fisetin and fisetinidin did not inhibit Escherichia coli, whereas THF and THF- exhibited inhibitory action.

CONCLUSIONS

 Flavonoids, a readily accessible dietary ingredient, remain a viable treatment option for infectious diseases. This study suggests that THF, THF-, fisetin, and fisetinidin may be helpful in stopping the growth of some pathogens, especially staphylococci. Improvements to flavonoids' pharmacokinetics and diffusion may encourage their use in therapy as an adjuvant to conventional medications.

Antimicrobial Activities of Natural Bioactive Polyphenols

Secondary metabolites, polyphenols, are widespread in the entire kingdom of plants. They contain one or more hydroxyl groups that have a variety of biological functions in the natural environment. These uses include polyphenols in food, beauty products, dietary supplements, and medicinal products and have grown rapidly during the past 20 years. Antimicrobial polyphenols are described together with their sources, classes, and subclasses. Polyphenols are found in different sources, such as dark chocolate, olive oil, red wine, almonds, cashews, walnuts, berries, green tea, apples, artichokes, mushrooms, etc. Examples of benefits are antiallergic, antioxidant, anticancer agents, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and antimicrobe properties. From these sources, different classes of polyphenols are helpful for the growth of internal functional systems of the human body, providing healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases, improving brain health, and rebooting our cellular microbiome health by mitochondrial uncoupling. Among the various health benefits of polyphenols (curcumin, naringenin, quercetin, catechin, etc.) primarily different antimicrobial activities are discussed along with possible future applications. For polyphenols and antimicrobial agents to be proven safe, adverse health impacts must be substantiated by reliable scientific research as well as in vitro and in vivo clinical data. Future research may be influenced by this evaluation.

Interaction of selected alkoxy naringenin oximes with model and bacterial membranes

Naringenin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and herbs, most notably in grapefruits. In recent years, this compound and its derivatives have been of great interest due to their high biological activity, including fungicidal and bactericidal effects, also in relation to multidrug-resistant bacteria. Membrane interactions of naringenin oxime (NO) and its 7-O-alkyl (7-alkoxy) derivatives, such as methyl (7MENO), ethyl (7ETNO), isopropyl (7IPNO), n-butyl (7BUNO) and n-pentyl (7PENO) were studied. Thermotropic properties of model membranes were investigated via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), the influence on lipid raft mimicking giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) via fluorescence microscopy, and membrane permeability via measuring calcein leakage from liposomes. Molecular calculations supplemented the study. The influence of naringenin oximes on two strains of multidrug resistant bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus KJ and Enterococcus faecalis 37VRE was also investigated. In DSC studies all compounds reduced the temperature and enthalpy of main phase transition and caused disappearing of the pretransition. NO was the least active. The reduction in the area of surface domains in GUVs was observed for NO. Compounds NO and 7BUNO resulted in very low secretion of calcein from liposomes (permeability < 3 %). The highest results were observed for 7MENO (88.4 %) and 7IPNO (78.5 %). When bacterial membrane permeability was investigated all compounds caused significant release of propidium iodide from S. aureus (31.6-87.0 % for concentration 128 μg/mL). In the case of E. faecalis, 7ETNO (75.7 %) and NO (28.8 %) were the most active. The rest of the tested compounds showed less activity (permeability < 13.9 %). The strong evidence was observed that antibacterial activity of the tested compounds may be associated with their interaction with bacterial membrane.

New Insights into the Anti-Oomycete Mechanisms of a Leaf Extract from Glycyrrhiza glabra Against Pseudoperonospora cubensis

Cucurbit downy mildew, caused by Pseudoperonospora cubensis, is responsible for high economic losses worldwide in cucumber production. Synthetic pesticides or copper-based products are still important tools to manage the disease. However, the pathogen has developed resistance against common fungicides rather quickly, and there is a need for alternative plant-protecting agents. Glycyrrhiza glabra leaf extract is known for its antifungal activity and was highly effective in former bioassays and semi-commercial trials against downy mildew of cucumber. To elucidate the active ingredients and the mode of action, licorice leaf extract was here fractionated into five fractions (F1 to F5) with a newly developed and optimized separation process via flash chromatography. The crude extract (P1) and fraction F1 inhibited the zoospore release from sporangia, the zoospore germination, and germ tube development of P. cubensis almost completely on two cucumber cultivars, one tolerant and one susceptible to the pathogen. Infestation rates were reduced between 73 and 96%. F1 contained three previously reported antifungal polyphenols: glabranin, pinocembrin, and licoflavanon. Here, we report an additional new compound, naringenin. Furthermore, F5 is found here to show some protective effects against P. cubensis, based on either direct fungicidal or indirect effects via the host plant. The presented results show that licorice leaf extract can serve as an alternative plant protection agent, able to manage P. cubensis infestation on cucumber cultivars with differing levels of susceptibility by interfering with important early stages in the pathogen development.

Comparison of the inhibition effects of naringenin and its glycosides on LPS-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages

BACKGROUND

Inflammation is intricately linked to the development of various diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Flavonoids, commonly found in plants, are known for their diverse health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds are categorized into different classes based on their chemical structure. structures. However, limited research has compared the effects of flavonoid aglycones and flavonoid glycosides. This study aims to assess the anti-inflammatory effects of naringenin and its glycosides (naringin and narirutin) in RAW264.7 macrophages.

METHODS AND RESULTS

RAW264.7 cells were treated with naringenin, naringin, and narirutin, followed by stimulation with lipopolysaccharide. The levels of inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), nitric oxide (NO), inducible NO synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), were assessed. Additionally, the study examined nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation using western blot analysis. Among the compounds tested, narirutin exhibited the most potent anti-inflammatory effect against TNF-α, NO, and iNOS. Naringin and narirutin showed comparable inhibitory effects on IL-1β and COX-2. Both naringin and narirutin suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators by targeting different levels of the NF-κB and MAPK pathways. Naringenin demonstrated the weakest anti-inflammatory effect, primarily inhibiting NF-κB and reducing the phosphorylation levels of p38.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that the presence of glycosides on naringenin and the varied binding forms of sugars in naringenin glycosides significantly influence the anti-inflammatory effects compared with naringenin in RAW 264.7 macrophages.

Bioefficacy of Sida cordifolia L. phytoextract against foodborne bacteria: optimization and bioactive compound analysis

Aim: To elucidate the antibacterial activity of Sida cordifolia L. phytoextract, evaluate its polyphenol profile and optimize conditions against certain common foodborne bacteria. Methods: After polarity-based sequential extraction, S. cordifolia phytoextracts were tested for antibacterial potential against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Box-Behnken design was used to optimize several process parameters and ultra-performance liquid chromatography confirmed the phenolic composition of the best possible outcome. Results: Agar well diffusion and MIC/MBC assay confirmed a strong bactericidal effect of ethanolic (SC04-ET) extract against ampicillin and colistin-resistant Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. The direct interactive effect of optimized conditions showed maximum antibacterial performance and ultra-performance liquid chromatography revealed a high amount of phenolic compounds. Conclusion: The results confirmed that ethanolic extract of S. cordifolia has potent bactericidal action against foodborne bacteria.

Potential chemopreventive effects of Broccoli extract supplementation against 7, 12 dimethyl Benz(a)anthracene (DMBA) -induced toxicity in female rats

Dietary components have recently received rapidly expanding attention for their potential to halt or reverse the development of many oxidative stress-mediated diseases after exposure to environmental toxicants. 7, 12 dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) is one of the most common environmental pollutants. The present study aimed to evaluate the chemo-preventive effects of broccoli as a nutritional component against DMBA intoxication in rats. A daily dose of aqueous (1 ml/rat) and methanolic (150 mg/kg) broccoli extracts, respectively, was given to 50-day-old female rats for 26 successive weeks after carcinogen intoxication with a single dose of 20 mg/ml of DMBA. DMBA intoxication resulted in a redox imbalance (a decreased GSH level and an increased MDA level) and increased DNA fragmentation in the liver, kidney, and brain. Besides, it affected the level of expression of the bcl2 gene in the liver, kidney, and brain tissue but didn't affect cfos gene expression accompanied by histopathological changes. The aqueous and methanolic broccoli extract supplements ameliorated the adverse effects by increasing the level of GSH, decreasing the MDA level, and reducing DNA fragmentation. Besides, broccoli extracts decreased the expression of bcl2 in the liver and brain and up-regulated bcl2 expression in the kidney, accompanied by lowering NF-κβ 65 expression in the liver and brain and γ-catenin expression in the liver and kidney. In conclusion, broccoli as a dietary component had a strong chemoprotective effect against oxidative stress, DNA damage, and genotoxicity induced by DMBA intoxication in rats.

Mechanisms of ferroptosis regulating oxidative stress and energy metabolism in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury and a novel perspective of natural plant active ingredients for its treatment

Acute myocardial infarction remains the leading cause of death in humans. Timely restoration of blood perfusion to ischemic myocardium remains the most effective strategy in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction, which can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality. However, after restoration of blood flow and reperfusion, myocardial injury will aggravate and induce apoptosis of cardiomyocytes, a process called myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Studies have shown that the loss and death of cardiomyocytes caused by oxidative stress, iron load, increased lipid peroxidation, inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, etc., are involved in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. In recent years, with the in-depth research on the pathology of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, people have gradually realized that there is a new form of cell death in the pathological process of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, namely ferroptosis. A number of studies have found that in the myocardial tissue of patients with acute myocardial infarction, there are pathological changes closely related to ferroptosis, such as iron metabolism disorder, lipid peroxidation, and increased reactive oxygen species free radicals. Natural plant products such as resveratrol, baicalin, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, naringenin, and astragaloside IV can also exert therapeutic effects by correcting the imbalance of these ferroptosis-related factors and expression levels. Combining with our previous studies, this review summarizes the regulatory mechanism of natural plant products intervening ferroptosis in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in recent years, in order to provide reference information for the development of targeted ferroptosis inhibitor drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Microbial Secondary Metabolites via Fermentation Approaches for Dietary Supplementation Formulations

Food supplementation formulations refer to products that are designed to provide additional nutrients to the diet. Vitamins, dietary fibers, minerals and other functional compounds (such as antioxidants) are concentrated in dietary supplements. Specific amounts of dietary compounds are given to the body through food supplements, and these include as well so-called non-essential compounds such as secondary plant bioactive components or microbial natural products in addition to nutrients in the narrower sense. A significant social challenge represents how to moderately use the natural resources in light of the growing world population. In terms of economic production of (especially natural) bioactive molecules, ways of white biotechnology production with various microorganisms have recently been intensively explored. In the current review other relevant dietary supplements and natural substances (e.g., vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants) used in production of dietary supplements formulations and their microbial natural production via fermentative biotechnological approaches are briefly reviewed. Biotechnology plays a crucial role in optimizing fermentation conditions to maximize the yield and quality of the target compounds. Advantages of microbial production include the ability to use renewable feedstocks, high production yields, and the potential for cost-effective large-scale production. Additionally, it can be more environmentally friendly compared to chemical synthesis, as it reduces the reliance on petrochemicals and minimizes waste generation. Educating consumers about the benefits, safety, and production methods of microbial products in general is crucial. Providing clear and accurate information about the science behind microbial production can help address any concerns or misconceptions consumers may have.

Anti-Helicobacter pylori, Antioxidant, Antidiabetic, and Anti-Alzheimer's Activities of Laurel Leaf Extract Treated by Moist Heat and Molecular Docking of Its Flavonoid Constituent, Naringenin, against Acetylcholinesterase and Butyrylcholinesterase

It is worth noting that laurel (Laurus nobilis L.) contains several pharmacologically and nutritionally active compounds that may differ according to the pretreatment process. The current study is designed to clarify the effect of moist heat on the phenolic and flavonoid constituents and anti-Helicobacter pylori, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-Alzheimer's activities of laurel leaf extract (LLE). Unmoist-heated (UMH) and moist-heated (MH) LLEs showed the presence of numerous flavonoid and phenolic constituents, although at different levels of concentration. MH significantly induced (p < 0.05) the occurrence of most compounds at high concentrations of 5655.89 µg/mL, 3967.65 µg/mL, 224.80 µg/mL, 887.83 µg/mL, 2979.14 µg/mL, 203.02 µg/mL, 284.65 µg/mL, 1893.66 µg/mL, and 187.88 µg/mL, unlike the detection at low concentrations of 3461.19 µg/mL, 196.96 µg/mL, 664.12 µg/mL, 2835.09 µg/mL, 153.26 µg/mL, 254.43 µg/mL, 1605.00 µg/mL, 4486.02 µg/mL, and 195.60 µg/mL using UMH, for naringenin, methyl gallate, caffeic acid, rutin, ellagic acid, coumaric acid, vanillin, ferulic acid, and hesperetin, respectively. Chlorogenic acid, syringic acid, and daidzein were detected in the UMH LLE but not in the MH LLE, unlike pyrocatechol. The anti-H. pylori activity of the UMH LLE was lower (23.67 ± 0.58 mm of inhibition zone) than that of the MH LLE (26.00 ± 0.0 mm of inhibition zone). Moreover, the values of MIC and MBC associated with the MH LLE were very low compared to those of the UMH LLE. Via MBC/MIC index calculation, the UMH and MH LLEs showed cidal activity. The MH LLE exhibited higher anti-biofilm activity (93.73%) compared to the anti-biofilm activity (87.75%) of the MH LLE against H. pylori. The urease inhibition percentage was more affected in the UMH LLE compared to the MH LLE, with significant (p < 0.05) IC₅₀ values of 34.17 µg/mL and 91.11 µg/mL, respectively. Promising antioxidant activity was documented with a very low value of IC₅₀ (3.45 µg/mL) for the MH LLE compared to the IC₅₀ value of 4.69 µg/mL for the UMH LLE and the IC₅₀ value of 4.43 µg/mL for ascorbic acid. The MH LLE showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) inhibition of α-glucosidase and butyrylcholinesterase activities, with IC₅₀ values of 9.9 µg/mL and 17.3 µg/mL, respectively, compared to those of the UMH LLE at 18.36 µg/mL and 28.92 µg/mL. The molecular docking of naringenin showed good docking scores against acetylcholinesterase 1E66 and butyrylcholinesterase 6EMI, indicating that naringenin is an intriguing candidate for additional research as a possible medication for Alzheimer's disease.

Ether Derivatives of Naringenin and Their Oximes as Factors Modulating Bacterial Adhesion

Because of the close connection between adhesion and many vital cellular functions, the search for new compounds modulating the adhesion of bacteria belonging to the intestinal microbiota is a great challenge and a clinical need. Based on our previous studies, we discovered that O-lkyl naringenin derivatives and their oximes exhibit antimicrobial activity against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. The current study was aimed at determining the modulatory effect of these compounds on the adhesion of selected representatives of the intestinal microbiota: Escherichia coli, a commensal representative of the intestinal microbiota, and Enterococcus faecalis, a bacterium that naturally colonizes the intestines but has disease-promoting potential. To better reflect the variety of real-life scenarios, we performed these studies using two different intestinal cell lines: the physiologically functioning ("healthy") 3T3-L1 cell line and the disease-mimicking, cancerous HT-29 line. The study was performed in vitro under static and microfluidic conditions generated by the Bioflux system. We detected the modulatory effect of the tested O-alkyl naringenin derivatives on bacterial adhesion, which was dependent on the cell line studied and was more significant for E. coli than for E. faecalis. In addition, it was noticed that this activity was affected by the concentration of the tested compound and its structure (length of the carbon chain). In summary, O-alkyl naringenin derivatives and their oximes possess a promising modulatory effect on the adhesion of selected representatives of the intestinal microbiota.

Antiproliferative Activity and Impact on Human Gut Microbiota of New O-Alkyl Derivatives of Naringenin and Their Oximes

Naringenin is a 5,7,4′-trihydroxyflavanone naturally occurring mainly in citrus fruits, characterized by a wide spectrum of biological activity. Chemical modifications based on alkylation and oximation in most cases increase its bioactivity. The aim of our research was to evaluate the antiproliferative activity and influence on selected representatives of the human gut microbiota of new synthesized O-alkyl derivatives (A1–A10) and their oximes (B1–B10), which contain hexyl, heptyl, octyl, nonyl and undecyl chains attached to the C-7 or to both the C-7 and C-4′ positions in naringenin. To the best of our knowledge, compounds A3, A4, A6, A8–A10 and B3–B10 have not been described in the scientific literature previously. The anticancer activity was tested on human colon cancer cell line HT-29 and mouse embryo fibroblasts 3T3-L1 using the sulforhodamine B (SRB) and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. We also determined the impacts of all compounds on the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli. The antimicrobial activity was expressed in terms of minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBC) values. For 7,4′-di-O-hexylnaringenin (A2), 7-O-undecylnaringenin (A9) and their oximes (B2, B9), which were safe for microbiota (MIC > 512 µg/mL) and almost all characterized by high cytotoxicity against the HT-29 cell line (A2: IC₅₀ > 100 µg/mL; A9: IC₅₀ = 17.85 ± 0.65 µg/mL; B2: IC₅₀ = 49.76 ± 1.63 µg/mL; B9: IC₅₀ = 11.42 ± 1.17 µg/mL), apoptosis assays were performed to elucidate their mechanisms of action. Based on our results, new compound B9 induced an apoptotic process via caspase 3/7 activation, which proved its potential as an anticancer agent.

Phytochemical Characterization and Antifungal Efficacy of Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora L.) Extract against Phytopathogenic Fungi

Cinnamomum camphora methanolic extract was tested for antifungal activity against three common, isolated, widespread phytopathogens: Alternaria alternata, Fusarium solani, and Fusarium oxysporum, which were molecularly identified and assigned accession numbers ON795987, ON795988, and ON795989, respectively. At 4000 µg/mL, the highest concentration of C. camphora methanolic extract inhibits the fungal mycelia weight of F. oxysporum, A. alternata, and F. solani by 60, 49, and 24%, respectively. The presence of several bioactive metabolites in the C. camphora extract could explain its antifungal activity. The presence of numerous phenolic and flavonoid compounds in the extract was revealed by HPLC analysis, including catechin and gallic acid, which had the highest concentrations of 6.21 and 6.98 µg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, osmoprotectants, total amino acids, and glycine betaine were abundant. Furthermore, total antioxidant activities, as measured by PMA and DPPH, were significant. The most abundant compound in the extract, according to GC-MS analysis, was mono(2-ethylhexyl) ester of 1,2-benzene dicarboxylic acid. Based on its in vitro efficacy in inhibiting mycelial growth weight, the tested extract could be recommended as a safe fungicide instead of a chemical treatment.

Citrus × paradisi L. Fruit Waste: The Impact of Eco-Friendly Extraction Techniques on the Phytochemical and Antioxidant Potential

Citrus fruits have been the subject of extensive research over the years due to their impressive antioxidant properties, the health benefits of flavanones, and their potential use in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. Grapefruit have been shown in studies to improve overall health, with numerous potential benefits, including improved heart health, reduced risk of certain cancers, improved digestive health, and improved immune system function. The development of cyclodextrin complexes is an exciting approach to increasing the content of flavanones such as naringin and naringenin in the extraction medium while improving the profile of beneficial phenolic compounds and the antioxidant profile. This research aims to optimize the extraction conditions of the flavanones naringin and naringenin with additional compounds to increase their yield from different parts of grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi L.) fruits, such as albedo and segmental membranes. In addition, the total content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and the antioxidant activity of ethanolic extracts produced conventionally and with -cyclodextrin was examined and compared. In addition, antioxidant activity was measured using the radical scavenging activity assay (ABTS), radical scavenging activity assay (DPPH), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. The yield of naringin increased from 10.53 ± 0.52 mg/g to 45.56 ± 5.06 mg/g to 51.11 ± 7.63 mg/g of the segmental membrane when cyclodextrins (α, β-CD) were used; naringenin increased from 65.85 ± 10.96 μg/g to 91.19 ± 15.19 μg/g of the segmental membrane when cyclodextrins (α, β-CD) were used. Furthermore, the results showed that cyclodextrin-assisted extraction had a significant impact in significantly increasing the yield of flavanones from grapefruit. In addition, the process was more efficient and less expensive, resulting in higher yields of flavanones with a lower concentration of ethanol and effort. This shows that cyclodextrin-assisted extraction is an excellent method for extracting valuable compounds from grapefruit.

Grape, Pomegranate, Olive, and Tomato By-Products Fed to Dairy Ruminants Improve Milk Fatty Acid Profile without Depressing Milk Production

The continuous increase in the cost of feeds and the need to improve the sustainability of animal production require the identification of alternative feeds, such as those derived from the agro-industrial sector, that can be effectively used for animal nutrition. Since these by-products (BP) are sources of bioactive substances, especially polyphenols, they may play an important role as a new resource for improving the nutritional value of animal-derived products, being effective in the modulation of the biohydrogenation process in the rumen, and, hence, in the composition of milk fatty acids (FA). The main objective of this work was to evaluate if the inclusion of BP in the diets of dairy ruminants, as a partial replacement of concentrates, could improve the nutritional quality of dairy products without having negative effects on animal production traits. To meet this goal, we summarized the effects of widespread agro-industrial by-products such as grape pomace or grape marc, pomegranate, olive cake, and tomato pomace on milk production, milk composition, and FA profile in dairy cows, sheep, and goats. The results evidenced that substitution of part of the ratio ingredients, mainly concentrates, in general, does not affect milk production and its main components, but at the highest tested doses, it can depress the yield within the range of 10-12%. However, the general positive effect on milk FA profile was evident by using almost all BP at different tested doses. The inclusion of these BP in the ration, from 5% up to 40% of dry matter (DM), did not depress milk yield, fat, or protein production, demonstrating positive features in terms of both economic and environmental sustainability and the reduction of human-animal competition for food. The general improvement of the nutritional quality of milk fat related to the inclusion of these BP in dairy ruminant diets is an important advantage for the commercial promotion of dairy products resulting from the recycling of agro-industrial by-products.