Plant Flavonoids: Chemical Characteristics and Biological Activity

Phytocannabinoids in neuromodulation: From omics to epigenetics

BACKGROUND

Recent developments in metabolomics, transcriptomic and epigenetics open up new horizons regarding the pharmacological understanding of phytocannabinoids as neuromodulators in treating anxiety, depression, epilepsy, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease and autism.

METHODS

The present review is an extensive search in public databases, such as Google Scholar, Scopus, the Web of Science, and PubMed, to collect all the literature about the neurobiological roles of cannabis extract, cannabidiol, 9-tetrahydrocannabinol specially focused on metabolomics, transcriptomic, epigenetic, mechanism of action, in different cell lines, induced animal models and clinical trials. We used bioinformatics, network pharmacology and enrichment analysis to understand the effect of phytocannabinoids in neuromodulation.

RESULTS

Cannabidomics studies show wide variability of metabolites across different strains and varieties, which determine their medicinal and abusive usage, which is very important for its quality control and regulation. CB receptors interact with other compounds besides cannabidiol and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, like cannabinol and Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol. Phytocannabinoids interact with cannabinoid and non-cannabinoid receptors (GPCR, ion channels, and PPAR) to improve various neurodegenerative diseases. However, its abuse because of THC is also a problem found across different epigenetic and transcriptomic studies. Network enrichment analysis shows CNR1 expression in the brain and its interacting genes involve different pathways such as Rap1 signalling, dopaminergic synapse, and relaxin signalling. CBD protects against diseases like epilepsy, depression, and Parkinson's by modifying DNA and mitochondrial DNA in the hippocampus. Network pharmacology analysis of 8 phytocannabinoids revealed an interaction with 10 (out of 60) targets related to neurodegenerative diseases, with enrichment of ErbB and PI3K-Akt signalling pathways which helps in ameliorating neuro-inflammation in various neurodegenerative diseases. The effects of phytocannabinoids vary across sex, disease state, and age which suggests the importance of a personalized medicine approach for better success.

CONCLUSIONS

Phytocannabinoids present a range of promising neuromodulatory effects. It holds promise if utilized in a strategic way towards personalized neuropsychiatric treatment. However, just like any drug irrational usage may lead to unforeseen negative effects. Exploring neuro-epigenetics and systems pharmacology of major and minor phytocannabinoid combinations can lead to success.

Orbea variegata (L.) Haw in skin carcinogenesis: insights from an in vivo male Swiss mouse model study

Skin cancer is the most widespread type of malignant tumor representing a major public health concern. Considering the numerous side effects associated with conventional treatments, phytotherapy may be regarded as a viable medicinal alternative. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of Orbea variegata (L.) Haw, an ornamental plant, in treating skin cancer using an animal model induced by a combination of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and sulfuric acid treatment. The hydroethanolic extract of Orbea variegata underwent phytochemical characterization, identifying the presence of reducing sugars, coumarins, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins through qualitative screening. Quantitative analysis demonstrated significant amounts of phenolic compounds (29.435 ± 0.571 mg GAE/g of dry extract), flavonoids (6.711 ± 0.272 mg QE/g of dry extract), and tannins (274.037 ± 11.3 mg CE/g of dry extract). The administration the hydroethanolic extract in two concentrations (1 or 2 g/kg) to male Swiss mice exhibited no marked adverse effects, as evidenced by serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) enzyme activity levels. In addition, the extract significantly reduced skin hyperplasia and inflammation induced by UV/sulfuric acid treatment as noted in tissue analyses and decreased protein expression of nuclear proliferation marker (Ki-67). This improvement was associated with a marked decrease in oxidative stress, as indicated by diminished lipid peroxidation levels, and restoration of the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT) to control levels. Our findings demonstrated the potential of Orbea variegata hydroethanolic extract to be considered as a treatment for skin cancer, exhibiting its apparent safety and efficacy in reducing inflammation and carcinogenesis in a UV/sulfuric acid-induced Swiss mouse model, attributed to its phytochemical content and associated antioxidant activities.

Medicago truncatula β-glucosidase 17 contributes to drought and salt tolerance through antioxidant flavonoid accumulation

Flavonoids are usually present in forms of glucosides in plants, which could be catabolized by β-glucosidase (BGLU) to form their corresponding flavonoid aglycones. In this study, we isolated three abiotic-responsive BGLU genes (MtBGLU17, MtBGLU21 and MtBGLU22) from Medicago truncatula, and found only the recombinant MtBGLU17 protein could catalyse the hydrolysis of flavonoid glycosides. The recombinant MtBGLU17 protein is active towards a variety of flavonoid glucosides, including glucosides of flavones (apigenin and luteolin), flavonols (kaempferol and quercetin), isoflavones (genistein and daidzein) and flavanone (naringenin). In particular, the recombinant MtBGLU17 protein preferentially hydrolyses flavonoid-7-O-glucosides over their corresponding 3-O-glucosides. The content of luteoin-7-O-glucoside was reduced in the MtBGLU17 overexpression plants but increased in the Tnt-1 insertional mutant lines, whereas luteoin content was increased in the MtBGLU17 overexpression plants but reduced in the Tnt-1 insertional mutant lines. Under drought and salt (NaCl) treatment, the MtBGLU17 overexpression lines showed relatively higher DPPH content, and higher CAT and SOD activity than the wild type control. These results indicated that overexpression lines of MtBGLU17 possess higher antioxidant activity and thus confer drought and salt tolerance, implying MtBGLU17 could be potentially used as a candidate gene to improve plant abiotic stress tolerance.

Chalcone derivatives as promising antifoulants: Molecular optimization, bioactivity evaluation and performance in coatings

Marine biofouling remains a huge concern for maritime industries and for environmental health. Although the current biocide-based antifouling coatings can prevent marine biofouling, their use has been associated with toxicity for the marine environment, being urgent to find sustainable alternatives. Previously, our research group has identified a prenylated chalcone (1) with promising antifouling activity against the settlement of larvae of the macrofouling species Mytilus galloprovincialis (EC50 = 16.48 µM and LC50 > 200 µM) and lower ecotoxicity when compared to Econea®, a commercial antifouling agent in use. Herein, a series of chalcone 1 analogues were designed and synthesized in order to obtain optimized antifouling compounds with improved potency while maintaining low ecotoxicity. Compounds 8, 15, 24, and 27 showed promising antifouling activity against the settlement of M. galloprovincialis larvae, being dihydrochalcone 27 the most potent. The effect of compound 24 was associated with the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity. Among the synthesized compounds, compound 24 also showed potent complementary activity against Navicula sp. (EC50 = 4.86 µM), similarly to the lead chalcone 1 (EC50 = 6.75 µM). Regarding the structure-activity relationship, the overall results demonstrate that the substitution of the chalcone of the lead compound 1 by a dihydrochalcone scaffold resulted in an optimized potency against the settlement of mussel larvae. Marine polyurethane (PU)-based coatings containing the best performed compound concerning anti-settlement activity (dihydrochalcone 27) were prepared, and mussel larvae adherence was reduced compared to control PU coatings.

Chrysin attenuates epithelial prostatic hyperplasia in the ventral prostate of spontaneously hypertensive rats

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of chrysin on the ventral prostate of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Ten-week-old male Wistar and SHR rats received 100 mg/kg/day of chrysin (TW and TSHR) or 200 µL/day of the dilution vehicle (CW and CSHR) for 70 days. After the treatment, the animals were euthanized and the prostates were dissected out, fixed, and processed for further morphological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical analyses. Blood was collected for serological analysis. Chrysin did not interfere with the blood pressure. Morphologically, the epithelial height increased in TW and decreased in TSHR. Stereology showed an increase in the epithelial and stromal relative frequency, and a decrease in the lumen of TW, whereas the epithelium in TSHR was reduced. Normal alveoli decreased, and hyperplastic alveoli had an increment in TW, whereas in TSHR normal alveoli increased and intense hyperplasia decreased. The secretion area was reduced in TW. Immunohistochemical analysis showed a smaller number of PCNA-positive cells in TW. Finally, the biochemical analysis showed a reduction in malondialdehyde, carbonylated proteins, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in TW and TSHR. We concluded that the chrysin effect is dependent on the context in which this flavonoid is employed. In normal conditions, the anabolic potential of the chrysin was favored, disrupting the morphology of the prostate. However, when used in animals predisposed to develop hyperplasia, this flavonoid attenuates the hyperplastic status, improving the morphology of the gland.

Characterization of the Polyphenolic Profile in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum P. Mill) Peel and Seeds by LC-HRMS/MS

Peel and seeds are the main byproducts from tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum P. Mill) processing with high concentrations of polyphenols that have been underexploited. Herein, polyphenolic profiles in tomato peel and seeds were elucidated by untargeted liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) with an LTQ Orbitrap analyzer. Samples from two Spanish regions─"Murcia" and "Almería"─were analyzed to obtain complementary results. 57 compounds were found, mainly phenolic acids and flavonoids, of which eight were identified for the first time in tomato. Polyphenols were more abundant in byproducts from "Murcia" samples than in those from"Almería" samples, where the abundance of compounds like coutaric, caffeic, neochlorogenic, dicaffeoylquinic and ferulic acids, vanillic acid hexoside, catechin, naringenin, prunin, apigenin-O-hexoside, rutin, and rutin-O-pentoside was even much higher in byproducts than that in whole fruits. These results reveal the wide range of polyphenols found in tomato byproducts, with potential applications in pharmaceutical research, food preservation, and cosmetic development, among others.

Phenolic Profile, Bioactivities and In Silico Analysis of the Trunk Bark of Acacia Cyanophylla Lindl

In the current investigation, total phenolics and flavonoids of the methanolic extract obtained from the trunk bark of Acacia cyanophylla Lindl. were quantified by LC-HRMS technique. DPPH and ABTS reagents were employed to assay the antioxidant potential. The anti-tyrosinase and anti-α-amylase potentials were also assayed. The findings revealed that thirteen polyphenolic compounds were detected in the methanolic extract with trans-taxifolin (23.2 g/kg), as the major constituent. A. cyanophylla extract displayed a higher activity with DPPH test (IC50=10.14±1.00 μg/mL) than with ABTS (IC50=15.27±2.09 μg/mL). The same extract also exhibited interesting α-amylase inhibitory action (IC50 value of 4.00±0.17 μg/mL). Moreover, methanolic trunk bark extract exerted strong anti-tyrosinase capacity with an IC50 of 5.12±0.41 μg/mL in comparison to kojic acid (IC50=10.22±0.85 μg/mL) used as positive control. The antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase and anti-α-amylase potentials of the methanolic extract of A. cyanophylla trunk bark were reinforced by in silico molecular docking analyses, which confirmed the results of the in vitro tests.

UPLC-qTOF-MS phytochemical profile of Commiphora gileadensis leaf extract via integrated ultrasonic-microwave-assisted technique and synthesis of silver nanoparticles for enhanced antibacterial properties

The utilization of metallic nanoparticles in bio-nanofabrication holds significant potential in the field of applied research. The current study applied and compared integrated ultrasonic-microwave-assisted extraction (US/MICE), ultrasonic extraction (USE), microwave-assisted extraction (MICE), and maceration (MAE) to extract total phenolic content (TPC). In addition, the study examined the antioxidant activity of Commiphora gileadensis (Cg) leaf. The results demonstrated that the TPC of US/MICE exhibited the maximum value at 59.34 ± 0.007 mg GAE/g DM. Furthermore, at a concentration of 10 μg/mL, TPC displayed a significant scavenging effect on DPPH (56.69 %), with an EC50 (6.48 μg/mL). Comprehensive metabolite profiling of the extract using UPLC-qTOF-MS/MS was performed to identify active agents. A total of 64 chromatographic peaks were found, out of which 60 were annotated. The most prevalent classes of metabolites found were polyphenols (including flavonoids and lignans), organic compounds and their derivatives, amides and amines, terpenes, and fatty acid derivatives. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the aggregate size of the synthesized nanoparticles and the spherical shape of C. gileadensis-mediated silver nanoparticles (Cg-AgNPs). The nanoparticles had a particle size ranging from 7.7 to 42.9 nm. The Cg-AgNPs exhibited more inhibition zones against S. aureus and E. coli. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of Cg-extract, AgNPs, and Cg-AgNPs were also tested. This study demonstrated the feasibility of using combined ultrasonic-microwave-assisted extraction to separate and extract chemicals from C. gileadensis on a large scale. These compounds have potential use in the pharmaceutical industry. Combining antibacterial and biocompatible properties in materials is vital for designing new materials for biomedical applications. Additionally, the results showed that the biocompatibility of the Ag-NPs using C. gileadensis extracts demonstrated outstanding antibacterial properties.

Protective effect of luteolin against oxidative stress‑mediated cell injury via enhancing antioxidant systems

Physiological stress such as excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production may contribute normal fibroblasts activation into cancer‑associated fibroblasts, which serve a crucial role in certain types of cancer such as pancreatic, breast, liver and lung cancer. The present study aimed to examine the cytoprotective effects of luteolin (3',4',5,7‑tetrahydroxyflavone) against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‑generated oxidative stress in lung fibroblasts. To examine the effects of luteolin against H2O2‑induced damages, cell viability, sub‑G1 cell population, nuclear staining with Hoechst 33342, lipid peroxidation and comet assays were performed. To evaluate the effects of luteolin on the protein expression level of apoptosis, western blot assay was performed. To assess the antioxidant effects of luteolin, detection of ROS using H2DCFDA staining, O2‑ and ·OH using electron spin resonance spectrometer and antioxidant enzyme activity was performed. In a cell‑free chemical system, luteolin scavenges superoxide anion and hydroxyl radical generated by xanthine/xanthine oxidase and the Fenton reaction (FeSO4/H2O2). Furthermore, Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts (V79‑4) treated with H2O2 showed a significant increase in cellular ROS. Intracellular ROS levels and damage to cellular components such as lipids and DNA in H2O2‑treated cells were significantly decreased by luteolin pretreatment. Luteolin increased cell viability, which was impaired following H2O2 treatment and prevented H2O2‑mediated apoptosis. Luteolin suppressed active caspase‑9 and caspase‑3 levels while increasing Bcl‑2 expression and decreasing Bax protein levels. Additionally, luteolin restored levels of glutathione that was reduced in response to H2O2. Moreover, luteolin enhanced the activity and protein expressions of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and heme oxygenase‑1. Overall, these results indicated that luteolin inhibits H2O2‑mediated cellular damage by upregulating antioxidant enzymes.

Synthesis, fungal biotransformation, and evaluation of the antimicrobial potential of chalcones with a chlorine atom

Chalcones are intermediate products in the biosynthesis of flavonoids, which possess a wide range of biological properties, including antimicrobial and anticancer activities. The introduction of a chlorine atom and the glucosyl moiety into their structure may increase their bioavailability, bioactivity, and pharmacological use. The combined chemical and biotechnological methods can be applied to obtain such compounds. Therefore, 2-chloro-2'-hydroxychalcone and 3-chloro-2'-hydroxychalcone were synthesized and biotransformed in cultures of two strains of filamentous fungi, i.e. Isaria fumosorosea KCH J2 and Beauveria bassiana KCH J1.5 to obtain their novel glycosylated derivatives. Pharmacokinetics, drug-likeness, and biological activity of them were predicted using cheminformatics tools. 2-Chloro-2'-hydroxychalcone, 3-chloro-2'-hydroxychalcone, their main glycosylation products, and 2'-hydrochychalcone were screened for antimicrobial activity against several microbial strains. The growth of Escherichia coli 10,536 was completely inhibited by chalcones with a chlorine atom and 3-chlorodihydrochalcone 2'-O-β-D-(4″-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside. The strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa DSM 939 was the most resistant to the action of the tested compounds. However, chalcone aglycones and glycosides with a chlorine atom almost completely inhibited the growth of bacteria Staphylococcus aureus DSM 799 and yeast Candida albicans DSM 1386. The tested compounds had different effects on lactic acid bacteria depending on the tested species. In general, chlorinated chalcones were more effective in the inhibition of the tested microbial strains than their unchlorinated counterparts and aglycones were a little more effective than their glycosides.

Investigation of pectin deficiency in modulating the bioflavonoid profile of orange processing waste: A sustainable valorization of industrial waste

Orange processing waste (OPW) generated by the processing of oranges, as well as other citrus fruits, is a major source of pectin in the market nowadays. The residues generated during the pectin extraction process may contain many phytochemicals, including flavonoids. We use state-of-the-art techniques such as liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS/MS) and feature-based molecular network (FBMN) to annotate the flavonoids in OPWs. In particular, four flavonoids, hesperidin, naringin, diosmin, and hesperetin were quantified in the samples by LC-TDQ-MS. In total, 32 flavonoids from different classes were annotated, of which 16 were polymethoxylated flavonoids, 13 were flavonoid glycosides and 3 were flavanone aglycones. The results showed that flavonoid glycosides remain in high concentrations in OPWs from pectin factories even after pectin extraction by harsh conditions. The results show an exciting opportunity to harness the untapped potential of pectin factory waste as a renewable source for the extraction of glycoside flavonoids.

The genus Litsea: A comprehensive review of traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities and other studies

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The genus L. has high medicinal value and has traditional been used to treat a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, as well as diabetes, edema, colds, arthritis, asthma, and traumatic injuries.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This work addresses the missing information by conducting a comprehensive analysis of the traditional uses, chemical components, and pharmacological applications of the more reported species of the genus L. The origin of the genus, its toxicology, and the use of classical therapies in modern medicine were also discussed. It provides references for historical evidence, resource development, and medical research on the genus.

METHOD

ology: Data about the genus L. were gathered via Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Connected Papers, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), electronic ancient books and local chronicles. The WFO Plant List (wfoplantlist.org) and Flora of China (www.iplant.cn) confirmed L.'s Latin name, and the species information. The program ChemBioDraw Ultra 14.0 was used to create the molecular structures of the compounds that were displayed in the text.

RESULT

Currently, at least 740 constituents have been isolated and identified from L. These include 9 groups of chemicals, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. They have been shown to have over 20 biological properties in vivo and in vitro, such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects.

CONCLUSION

Based on pharmacological investigations, chemical components, and traditional folk applications, L. is considered a medicinal plant having a variety of pharmacological actions. However, although the pharmacological activity of the L. genus has been preliminary demonstrated, most have only been assessed using simple in vitro cell lines or animal disease models. In order to fully elucidate the pharmacological activity and mechanisms of L., future studies should be conducted in a more comprehensive clinical manner.

A narrative review on the mechanism of natural flavonoids in improving glucolipid metabolism disorders

Glucolipid metabolism disorder (GLMD) is a complex chronic disease characterized by glucose and lipid metabolism disorders with a complex and diverse etiology and rapidly increasing incidence. Many studies have identified the role of flavonoids in ameliorating GLMD, with mechanisms related to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, nuclear factor kappa-B, AMP-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2, glucose transporter type 4, and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway. However, a comprehensive summary of the flavonoid effects on GLMD is lacking. This study reviewed the roles and mechanisms of natural flavonoids with different structures in the treatment of GLMD reported globally in the past 5 years and provides a reference for developing flavonoids as drugs for treating GLMD.

Comprehensive Modulation of Secondary Metabolites in Terpenoid-Accumulating Mentha spicata L. via UV Radiation

In plants, secondary metabolites change in response to environmental conditions. These changes co-regulate resilience to stressful environmental conditions, plant growth and development, and interactions between plants and the wider ecosystem, while also affecting soil carbon storage and atmospheric and climatic conditions. The objective of this study was to determine the association between UV exposure and the contents of key metabolites, including amino acids, phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, carotenoids, tocopherols, and phytosterols. Mentha spicata plantlets were grown in tissue culture boxes for 30 days and then exposed to a low dose of broadband UV-B (291-315 nm; 2.8 kJm-2 biologically effective UV) enriched light for eight days. Metabolite contents were quantified either immediately after the final UV exposure, or after seven days of recovery under photosynthetically active radiation. It was found that UV promoted the production of flavonoids (1.8-fold) ahead of phenolic acids (unchanged). Furthermore, the majority of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, constituents of valuable mint essential oil, were significantly increased through UV treatment (up to 90-fold for α-linalool). In contrast, the contents of carotenoids and tocopherols did not increase following UV exposure. A comparison between plants sampled immediately after UV exposure and after seven days of recovery showed that there was an overall increase in the content of carotenoids, mono- and sesquiterpenes, phenolics, and amino acids following recovery, while the contents of sterols and tocopherols decreased. These UV-induced changes in metabolite profile may have important consequences for agriculture, ecology, and even the global climate, and they also provide an exciting opportunity to enhance crop value, facilitating the development of improved products with higher levels of essential oils and added benefits of enhanced flavour, colour, and bioactive content.

Diversity of the Morphometric and Biochemical Traits of Allium cepa L. Varieties

Several Allium cepa L. varieties, representing a versatile set of vegetables widely utilized by consumers, are appreciated for their bioactive properties, including antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, and antioxidant capacities. The aim of this study is to compare the morphometric characteristics and biochemical profiles of four cultivars of A. cepa, two of them represented by the perennial Sicilian landrace "Cipudda agghiarola" (Allium × proliferum (Moench) Schrader), widely known as the Egyptian walking onion (WO), and by the landrace "Cipudduzza" belonging to the variety known as aggregatum (ON), which were compared with two commercial cultivars of A. cepa var. cepa (onion), Stoccarda (OS) and Rossa Carmen (OR). The experimental trial was conducted in Catania (Sicily), following organic growing practices. The randomized complete block experimental design was adopted with one experimental factor, the genotype (GE) effect. The harvested plants were characterized for their main morphometric parameters, according to the International Plant Genetic Resources (IGPR) descriptors. The biochemical activity was assessed by analyzing the total phenolic content (TPC) and the total flavonoid content (TFC). The antioxidant capacity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). The sugar profile (total sugars, sucrose, glucose, fructose, and fructooligosaccharides-FOS) and the volatile compounds by headspace-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (HS-GC/MS) were also determined. The OR bulb exhibited the highest TPC (16.3 mg GAE/g d.w., p < 0.01) and TFC (8.5 mg QE/g d.w., p < 0.01), with the highest antioxidant capacity measured by the FRAP (27.1 µmol TE/g d.w., p < 0.01) and DPPH assays (46.2 µmol TE/g d.w., p < 0.01). The ON bulb showed the highest ORAC value (209 µmol TE/g d.w., p < 0.01). Generally, the bulbs were richer in sugars (584 mg/g d.w., p < 0.01) than the leaf blade (239 mg/g d.w., p < 0.01), except for OR. Significant interaction between the genotype and plant organ was noted in the volatile compound profiles (p < 0.05) except for total ketones and carboxylic acids, where higher content was observed in the leaf blade compared to the bulb, regardless of the genotype. These findings highlight WO's potential for use in ready-to-eat products, enhancing its market value.

Biological Activity of Horehound (Marrubium vulgare L.) Herb Grown in Poland and Its Phytochemical Composition

Marrubium vulgare (Lamiaceae) is a plant which has long been known and used in traditional medicine for various purposes. However, few recent studies have documented its chemical composition and biological properties. The present study investigated the phytochemical composition of horehound, as well as its protective, antioxidant, and antimicrobial potential. GC-MS analysis revealed that the major components of horehound essential oil are E-caryophyllene (35.7%), germacrene D (25.2%), and bicyclogermacrene (10.6%). The biological activity of horehound hydroethanolic herb extract derives from multiple chemical compounds, including polyphenols (55.72 mg/mL), flavonoids (11.01 mg/mL), phenolic acids (4.33 mg/mL), and tannins (4.46 mg/mL). Chromatographic analyses of the extract identified 12 phenolic compounds, of which ferulic acid, catechin, quercetin, protocatechuic acid, rutin, and syringic acid (35.42, 24.69, 20.65, 18.70, 14.46, and 12.69 mg/mL, respectively) were the main constituents. Its DPPH radical scavenging ability was 68.29%, while its antioxidant properties, determined by the FRAP method, were at the level of 1.22 mmol/L. Moreover, M. vulgare extract decreased the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species in the fibroblasts and keratinocytes in vitro, achieving the strongest antioxidant effect at a concentration of 2.5% in the case of both types of skin cells. Extracts from the horehound herb showed significant antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity, confirming the plant's potential in therapeutic applications against various microbial pathogens (gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and fungi). The research results demonstrate the protective effect of horehound extract on the viability of both fibroblasts and keratinocytes in vitro. To sum up, M. vulgare, as a valuable natural material with high preventive and therapeutic effectiveness, is a potential candidate for new applications in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.

From Stem to Spectrum: Phytochemical Characterization of Five Equisetum Species and Evaluation of Their Antioxidant Potential

The Equisetaceae family, commonly known as horsetails, has been of scientific interest for decades due to its status as one of the most ancient extant vascular plant families. Notably, the corresponding species have found their place in traditional medicine, offering a wide array of applications. This study presents a comprehensive phytochemical analysis of polar secondary metabolites within the sterile stems of five distinct Equisetum species using HPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn. For this purpose, fresh plant material was extracted with acetone/water, and the resulting crude extracts were fractionated using dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol, respectively. The results reveal a complex array of compounds, including hydroxycinnamic acids, hydroxybenzoic acids, flavonoids, and other phenolic compounds. In addition, total phenolic contents (Folin-Ciocalteu assay) and antioxidant activities (DPPH assay) of the plant extracts were evaluated using spectrophotometric methods. The present comparative analysis across the five species highlights both shared and species-specific metabolites, providing valuable insights into their chemical diversity and potential pharmacological properties.

Do polyphenols affect body fat and/or glucose metabolism?

Background

Obesity is reaching epidemic proportions with 51% of the population expected to be obese by 2030. Recently, polyphenols have been highlighted as an effective approach to managing obesity and associated risks. Polyphenols are a large class of bioactive plant compounds classified into two major categories: flavonoids which are distinguished by the fundamental C6-C3-C6 skeleton and non-flavonoids.

Objective

This systematic review evaluated the effect of different polyphenol sources in overweight and obese people with and without type 2 diabetes. The primary outcome was lipid profile and the secondary outcomes were blood glucose, HbA1c (%), HOMA-IR, weight, and body mass index.

Method

A search was undertaken in PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, and Wiley for randomized control trials that assessed different sources of polyphenols in overweight and obese people with or without type 2 diabetes. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Quality Assessment Tool.

Result

The search yielded 935 studies, of which six randomized control trials met the inclusion criteria. Five studies found no significant difference in lipid profile between the control and intervention groups in triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol. However, one study showed significant differences in triglycerides (p = 0.04) and HDL cholesterol (p = 0.05) between the two groups with no significant difference in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. There were no significant changes in blood glucose observed in the included studies, with only two studies reporting a significant difference in A1c between the groups. Four studies found no difference in HOMA-IR, while one study showed a significant decrease in HOMA-IR in the intervention group compared to the control group. Three studies reported no difference in BMI or weight between the two groups.

Conclusion

The data associated with the specific health benefits of polyphenols and their sources in people with overweight, obese, and type 2 diabetes are still limited, so further research is required to support their use and prove their benefits.

Lactic Acid Fermentation Ameliorates Intrinsic Toxicants in Brassica campestris L. Leaves Harvested at Different Growth Stages

Brassica campestris (syn. Brassica rapa) is often known as mustard and is grown worldwide owing to its health-promoting characteristics associated with the presence of nutrients and phytochemicals. Along with the nutritional components, B. campestris also contains anti-nutrients (phytates, oxalates, tannins, alkaloids, saponins) that can cause adverse severe health effects to consumers, including rashes, nausea, headaches, bloating and nutritional deficiencies. In the present study, heating (blanching) and fermentation (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum) treatments were applied to reduce the load of the anti-nutrients of B. campestris leaves harvested at three different growth stages: the first stage (fourth week), the second stage (sixth week) and the third stage (eighth week). Results revealed that fermentation treatment using Lp. plantarum increases the ash (5.4 to 6%), protein (9 to 10.4%) and fiber (9.6 to 10.7%) contents, whereas moisture (0.91 to 0.82%), fat (9.9 to 9.1%) and carbohydrate (64.5 to 64.2%) contents decreased among B. campestris samples, and the trend was similar for all three stages. Blanching and fermentation lead to the reduction in phytates (46, 42%), saponins (34, 49%), tannins (1, 10%), oxalates (15, 7%) and alkaloids (10, 6%), separately as compared to raw samples of B. campestris leaves. In contrast, fermentation had no considerable effect on phytochemical contents (total phenolic and total flavonoids) and antioxidant potential (DPPH and FRAP). The action of blanching followed by fermentation caused more decline in the aforementioned toxicants load as compared to blanching or fermentation alone. Structural modifications in blanching and the biochemical conversions in fermentation lead to enhanced stability of nutrients and antioxidant potential. Taken together, these findings suggest blanching followed by fermentation treatments as a reliable, cost-effective and safer approach to curtail the anti-nutrient load without affecting the proximate composition, phytochemical attributes and antioxidant activity.

Association between flavonoid intake and rheumatoid arthritis among US adults

Basic research shows that flavonoids have anti-inflammatory effects that influence rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in rats. Investigating potential dietary interventions for RA helps prevent the onset and progression of the disease. Clinical evidence on the association of flavonoid and subclass intake with RA is lacking. Using three survey cycles of 2007-2008, 2009-2010, and 2017-2018 from the National Health and Nutrition Survey and the United States Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS), we analyzed 7,419 American adults (≥20 years old). The values of flavonoid and subclass intake were calculated using FNDDS. The status questions for self-reported RA were from the NHANES codebook. Weighted analyses, revealed that among the 7,419 participants included in this study (mean age of 44.69 years [standard error, 0.40] and 3,584 [48.31%] were female), 408 met the classification criteria for RA. According to the multivariable logistic regression model, compared with the risk of RA in the first quartile (Q1), the risks of RA in the second quartile (Q2), the third quartile (Q3) and the fourth quartile (Q4) were lower (Q2: OR=0.55, 95% CI: 0.38-0.80; Q3: OR=0.66, 95% CI: 0.44-0.97; Q4: OR=0.64, 95% CI: 0.46-0.89; trend: P=.03). The association between total flavonoids and RA remained significant after full consideration of confounding factors. With regard to the subclasses of flavonoids, high flavanones intake was associated with low RA prevalence in Model 3 (Q3: OR= 0.60, 95% CI:0.39-0.92; Q4: OR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.32-0.99, trend: P=.02), but no such association was found in the other subclasses. Total flavonoids intake protected against RA, and the risk of developing RA decreased significantly with increasing intake of total flavonoids. Total flavonoids and flavanones were significantly associated with reduced RA risk for the American adult population. We highlighted the importance of employing diverse methodologies to assess the health effects of flavonoids.

Modulating the Gut Microbiota and Metabolites with Traditional Chinese Medicines: An Emerging Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications

Currently, an estimated 537 million individuals are affected by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the occurrence of which is invariably associated with complications. Glucose-lowering therapy remains the main treatment for alleviating T2DM. However, conventional antidiabetic agents are fraught with numerous adverse effects, notably elevations in blood pressure and lipid levels. Recently, the use of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) and their constituents has emerged as a preferred management strategy aimed at curtailing the progression of diabetes and its associated complications with fewer adverse effects. Increasing evidence indicates that gut microbiome disturbances are involved in the development of T2DM and its complications. This regulation depends on various metabolites produced by gut microbes and their interactions with host organs. TCMs' interventions have demonstrated the ability to modulate the intestinal bacterial microbiota, thereby restoring host homeostasis and ameliorating metabolic disorders. This review delves into the alterations in the gut microbiota and metabolites in T2DM patients and how TCMs treatment regulates the gut microbiota, facilitating the management of T2DM and its complications. Additionally, we also discuss prospective avenues for research on natural products to advance diabetes therapy.

Recent Advances in the Discovery of Novel Drugs on Natural Molecules

Natural products (NPs) are always a promising source of novel drugs for tackling unsolved diseases [...].

Rhizophagus Irregularis regulates flavonoids metabolism in paper mulberry roots under cadmium stress

Broussonetia papyrifera is widely found in cadmium (Cd) contaminated areas, with an inherent enhanced flavonoids metabolism and inhibited lignin biosynthesis, colonized by lots of symbiotic fungi, such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). However, the physiological and molecular mechanisms by which Rhizophagus irregularis, an AM fungus, regulates flavonoids and lignin in B. papyrifera under Cd stress remain unclear. Here, a pot experiment of B. papyrifera inoculated and non-inoculated with R. irregularis under Cd stress was carried out. We determined flavonoids and lignin concentrations in B. papyrifera roots by LC-MS and GC-MS, respectively, and measured the transcriptional levels of flavonoids- or lignin-related genes in B. papyrifera roots, aiming to ascertain the key components of flavonoids or lignin, and key genes regulated by R. irregularis in response to Cd stress. Without R. irregularis, the concentrations of eriodictyol, quercetin and myricetin were significantly increased under Cd stress. The concentrations of eriodictyol and genistein were significantly increased by R. irregularis, while the concentration of rutin was significantly decreased. Total lignin and lignin monomer had no alteration under Cd stress or with R. irregularis inoculation. As for flavonoids- or lignin-related genes, 26 genes were co-regulated by Cd stress and R. irregularis. Among these genes, BpC4H2, BpCHS8 and BpCHI5 were strongly positively associated with eriodictyol, indicating that these three genes participate in eriodictyol biosynthesis and were involved in R. irregularis assisting B. papyrifera to cope with Cd stress. This lays a foundation for further research revealing molecular mechanisms by which R. irregularis regulates flavonoids synthesis to enhance tolerance of B. papyrifera to Cd stress.

Computational Chemistry Strategies to Investigate the Antioxidant Activity of Flavonoids-An Overview

Despite several decades of research, the beneficial effect of flavonoids on health is still enigmatic. Here, we focus on the antioxidant effect of flavonoids, which is elementary to their biological activity. A relatively new strategy for obtaining a more accurate understanding of this effect is to leverage computational chemistry. This review systematically presents various computational chemistry indicators employed over the past five years to investigate the antioxidant activity of flavonoids. We categorize these strategies into five aspects: electronic structure analysis, thermodynamic analysis, kinetic analysis, interaction analysis, and bioavailability analysis. The principles, characteristics, and limitations of these methods are discussed, along with current trends.

Polyphenols as Therapeutics in Respiratory Diseases: Moving from Preclinical Evidence to Potential Clinical Applications

Respiratory diseases are the most common and severe health complication and a leading cause of death worldwide. Despite breakthroughs in diagnosis and treatment, few safe and effective therapeutics have been reported. Phytochemicals are gaining popularity due to their beneficial effects and low toxicity. Polyphenols are secondary metabolites with high molecular weights found at high levels in natural food sources such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and citrus seeds. Over recent decades, polyphenols and their beneficial effects on human health have been the subject of intense research, with notable successes in preventing major chronic non-communicable diseases. Many respiratory syndromes can be treated effectively with polyphenolic supplements, including acute lung damage, pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, pulmonary hypertension, and lung cancer. This review summarizes the role of polyphenols in respiratory conditions with sufficient experimental data, highlights polyphenols with beneficial effects for each, and identifies those with therapeutic potential and their underlying mechanisms. Moreover, clinical studies and future research opportunities in this area are discussed.

Dietary Flavonoid and Subclass Intakes are not Associated with Markers of Bone Health in U.S. Adults Age 50+ Years

BACKGROUND

Dietary flavonoid intakes have been associated with improved markers of bone health in Chinese and Scottish cohorts, but little data exist in middle aged to older adults in the United States.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of our research was to assess if dietary flavonoid intakes are associated with bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), and bone area of the lumbar spine and femoral neck in a nationally representative population of middle aged to older U.S. adults. We further sought to investigate if relationships of the main flavonoid subgroups (i.e., anthocyanins, flavan-3-ols, flavanones, flavones, flavonols, and isoflavones) exist, as a secondary objective.

METHODS

Cross-sectional data from individuals aged 50+ years enrolled in the 2017-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used in our analyses (N = 2590). Weighted multivariate logistic regression models were used to investigate the relationship between quartiles of flavonoid intake and BMD, BMC, and bone area of the lumbar spine and femoral neck of participants.

RESULTS

Mean age of participants was 63.4 ± 0.52 years and 64.1 ± 0.52 years for men and women, respectively. Average total flavonoid intake was 217 ± 19.4 mg/day and 306 ± 26.9 mg/day for men and women, respectively. Total flavonoid intakes were not significantly associated with BMD, BMC, or bone area of the femoral neck or lumbar spine in male or female participants. Flavonoid subclass intakes were also not consistently associated with improved markers of bone health.

CONCLUSION

Although several limitations exist, this cross-sectional analysis of U.S. adults aged 50+ years provides contradictory evidence to the hypothesis that higher flavonoid and flavonoid subclass intakes beneficially impacts markers of bone health. Large prospective cohort investigations that better capture long-term dietary flavonoid intake and ascertain fractures the primary outcome, as well as randomized controlled trials, are needed to fully elucidate the effects flavonoids on bone health.

Microencapsulation of noni fruit extract using gum arabic and maltodextrin - Optimization, stability and efficiency

Noni fruit (Morinda citrifolia L.) has many health-supporting compounds, but its biological extracts need protection against environmental impacts for stability and efficiency. To address this, microencapsulation is an advanced technology in food applications that require optimization of coating component and temperature regime. Gum arabic (GA) and maltodextrin (MD) were suitably combined at 2:1 ratio, which showed good and stable structure as well as successful microencapsulation efficiency of the enzymatic-ultrasonic assisted noni extract. A coating density of 20 % for the GA:MD formula was with highest performance. The heat setting of spray drying was optimized at 175 and 82 °C for inlet and outlet, respectively using response surface methodology with experimental validation of maximized TFC and TSC at 88.3 and 90.3 %, respectively. Noni microencapsulated powder was assessed via a series of reliably advanced techniques such as microscopy, spectrophotometry, diffraction, and calorimetry for structural properties. Noni powder was additionally tested for storage stability, heat exposure stability, and release efficiency in pH condition and in vitro digestive tract. Promising results were obtained with at least one year storage stability, better microcapsule stability at 60 and 100 °C, quite good release at pH 7.4, and suitable release efficiency in digestive tract simulation. These properties of microencapsulated noni powder open further scalability potential and various industrial applications.

Ethylene: A Modulator of the Phytohormone-Mediated Insect Herbivory Network in Plants

Plants have evolved to establish insect herbivory defences by modulating their metabolism, growth, and development. Precise networks of phytohormones are essential to induce those herbivory defences. Gaseous phytohormone ET plays an important role in forming herbivory defences. Its role in insect herbivory is not fully understood, but previous studies have shown that it can both positively and negatively regulate herbivory. This review presents recent findings on crosstalk between ET and other phytohormones in herbivory responses. Additionally, the use of exogenous ETH treatment to induce ET in response to herbivory is discussed.

Identification of cyclooxygenase-II inhibitory saponins from fenugreek wastes: Insights from liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry metabolomics, molecular networking, and molecular docking

INTRODUCTION

This research explores sustainable applications for waste generated from fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), a plant with both nutritional and medicinal uses. The study specifically targets waste components as potential sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds.

OBJECTIVES

The focus is to conduct detailed metabolic profiling of fenugreek waste, assess its anti-inflammatory properties by studying its cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitory effect, and correlate this effect to the metabolite fingerprint.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethanolic extracts of fenugreek fruit pericarp and a combination of leaves and stems were subjected to untargeted metabolic profiling using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry integrated with online database searches and molecular networking as an effective dereplication strategy. The study also scrutinized the COX inhibitory capabilities of these extracts and saponin-rich fractions prepared therefrom. Molecular docking was employed to investigate the specific interactions between the identified saponins and COX enzymes.

RESULTS

The analysis led to the annotation of 81 metabolites, among which saponins were predominant. The saponin-rich fraction of the fruit pericarp extract displayed the strongest COX-II inhibitory activity in the in vitro inhibition assay (IC50 value of 81.64 ± 3.98 μg/mL). The molecular docking study supported the selectivity of the identified saponins towards COX-II. The two major identified saponins, namely, proto-yamogenin 3-O-[deoxyhexosyl (1 → 2)] [hexosyl (1 → 4)] hexoside 26-O-hexoside and trigofenoside A, were predicted to have the highest affinity to the COX-II receptor site.

CONCLUSION

In the present study, we focused on the identification of COX-II inhibitory saponins in fenugreek waste through an integrated approach. The findings offer valuable insights into potential anti-inflammatory and cancer chemoprotective applications of fenugreek waste.

Antimicrobial Compounds in Wine

Ipsum vinum est potestas et possession (wine itself is power and possession). Wine is a complex system that triggers multisensory cognitive stimuli. Wine and its consumption are thoroughly intertwined with the development of human society. The beverage was appreciated in many ancient mythologies and plays an essential part in Christianity and rituals to this day. Wine has been said to enlighten and inspire artists and has even been prohibited by law and some religions, but has nevertheless played a role in human civilizations since the beginning. Winemaking is also a prospering and economically important industry and a longtime symbol of status and luxury. In winemaking, the formation of the final product is influenced by several factors that contribute to the chemical and sensory complexity often associated with quality vintages. Factors such as terroir, climatic conditions, variety of the grape, all aspects of the winemaking process to the smallest details, including metabolic processes carried out by yeast and malolactic bacteria, and the conditions for the maturation and storage of the final product, up to, and even beyond the point of deciding to open the bottle and enjoy the wine. In conjunction with the empiric and scientific process of winemaking, different molecules with antibacterial activity can be identified in wine during the production process, and several of them are clearly present in the final product. Some of these antibacterial components are phytochemicals, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, that may be delivered to the final product (wine) as a part of the grape, a variety of potential additive compounds, or from the oak barrels or clay amphoras used during the maturation process. Others are produced by yeasts and malolactic bacteria and play a role not only in the moderation of the fermentation process but contributing to the microbiological safety and beneficial properties spectra of the final product. Lactic acid bacteria, responsible for conducting malolactic fermentation, contribute to the final balance of the wine but are also directly involved in the production of different compounds exhibiting antibacterial activity. Some examples of these compounds include bacteriocins (antibacterial peptides), diacetyl, organic acids, reuterin, hydrogen peroxide, and carbon dioxide. Major aspects of these different beneficial metabolites are the subject of discussion in this review with the aim of highlighting their beneficial functions.

Modulation of long noncoding RNAs by polyphenols as a novel potential therapeutic approach in lung cancer: A comprehensive review

Lung cancer stands as a formidable global health challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic strategies. Polyphenols, bioactive compounds synthesized by plants, have garnered attention for their diverse health benefits, particularly in combating various cancers, including lung cancer. The advent of whole-genome and transcriptome sequencing technologies has illuminated the pivotal roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), operating at epigenetic, transcriptional, and posttranscriptional levels, in cancer progression. This review comprehensively explores the impact of polyphenols on both oncogenic and tumor-suppressive lncRNAs in lung cancer, elucidating on their intricate regulatory mechanisms. The comprehensive examination extends to the potential synergies when combining polyphenols with conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Recognizing the heterogeneity of lung cancer subtypes, the review emphasizes the need for the integration of nanotechnology for optimized polyphenol delivery and personalized therapeutic approaches. In conclusion, we collect the latest research, offering a holistic overview of the evolving landscape of polyphenol-mediated modulation of lncRNAs in lung cancer therapy. The integration of polyphenols and lncRNAs into multidimensional treatment strategies holds promise for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and navigating the challenges associated with lung cancer treatment.

Exploring the effectiveness of flavone derivatives for treating liver diseases: Utilizing DFT, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics techniques

In exploring nature's potential in addressing liver-related conditions, this study investigates the therapeutic capabilities of flavonoids. Utilizing in silico methodologies, we focus on flavone and its analogs (1-14) to assess their therapeutic potential in treating liver diseases. Molecular change calculations using density functional theory (DFT) were conducted on these compounds, accompanied by an evaluation of each analog's physiochemical and biochemical properties. The study further assesses these flavonoids' binding effectiveness and locations through molecular docking studies against six target proteins associated with human cancer. Tropoflavin and taxifolin served as reference drugs. The structurally modified flavone analogs (1-14) displayed a broad range of binding affinities, ranging from -7.0 to -9.4 kcal mol⁻¹, surpassing the reference drugs. Notably, flavonoid (7) exhibited significantly higher binding affinities with proteins Nrf2 (PDB:1 × 2 J) and DCK (PDB:1 × 2 J) (-9.4 and -8.1 kcal mol⁻¹) compared to tropoflavin (-9.3 and -8.0 kcal mol⁻¹) and taxifolin (-9.4 and -7.1 kcal mol⁻¹), respectively. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations revealed that the docked complexes had a root mean square deviation (RMSD) value ranging from 0.05 to 0.2 nm and a root mean square fluctuation (RMSF) value between 0.35 and 1.3 nm during perturbation. The study concludes that 5,7-dihydroxyflavone (7) shows substantial promise as a potential therapeutic agent for liver-related conditions. However, further validation through in vitro and in vivo studies is necessary. Key insights from this study include:•Screening of flavanols and their derivatives to determine pharmacological and bioactive properties using ADMET, molinspiration, and pass prediction analysis.•Docking of shortlisted flavone derivatives with proteins having essential functions.•Analysis of the best protein-flavonoid docked complexes using molecular dynamics simulation to determine the flavonoid's efficiency and stability within a system.

Salty treatment increased bioactive compounds accumulation during agarwood development in Aquilaria sinensis trees

To compare the bioactive compounds in agarwood induced by different methods in Aquilaria sinensis(Lour.) Gilg trees, a two dimensional thin layer chromatograph(2D-TLC) combined with effect directive analysis(EDA) was developed. Three antioxidants were found by 2D-TLC-DPPH and further identified as 2-(2-phenylethyl) chromones(PECs) with LC-MS/MS. The 3 antioxidants decreased along agarwood formation and their compositions in drilling induced agarwood differed with those in microbe culture induced agarwood. Further study showed NaCl treatment promoted antioxidants accumulation in agarwood induced by drilling or hot drilling. Hot drilling combined with salty stimulation was most efficient in some chemicals accumulation, which were identified as PECs with antioxidant, tyrosinase or β-glucosidase inhibiting activities by 2D-TLC-EDA-LC-MS/MS. This study provided a 2D-TLC-EDA-LC-MS/MS method for bioactive compounds screen and qualification of agarwood. Based on this method, non-conventional methods were found to accelerate the accumulation of some bioactive PECs in A. sinensis trees.

The protective effect of natural medicines in rheumatoid arthritis via inhibit angiogenesis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic immunological disease leading to the progressive bone and joint destruction. Angiogenesis, accompanied by synovial hyperplasia and inflammation underlies joint destruction. Delaying or even blocking synovial angiogenesis has emerged as an important target of RA treatment. Natural medicines has a long history of treating RA, and numerous reports have suggested that natural medicines have a strong inhibitory activity on synovial angiogenesis, thereby improving the progression of RA. Natural medicines could regulate the following signaling pathways: HIF/VEGF/ANG, PI3K/Akt pathway, MAPKs pathway, NF-κB pathway, PPARγ pathway, JAK2/STAT3 pathway, etc., thereby inhibiting angiogenesis. Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. (TwHF), sinomenine, and total glucoside of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. Are currently the most representative of all natural products worthy of development and utilization. In this paper, the main factors affecting angiogenesis were discussed and different types of natural medicines that inhibit angiogenesis were systematically summarized. Their specific anti-angiogenesis mechanisms are also reviewed which aiming to provide new perspective and options for the management of RA by targeting angiogenesis.

Metal-Flavonoid Interactions-From Simple Complexes to Advanced Systems

For many years, metal-flavonoid complexes have been widely studied as a part of drug discovery programs, but in the last decade their importance in materials science has increased significantly. A deeper understanding of the role of metal ions and flavonoids in constructing simple complexes and more advanced hybrid networks will facilitate the assembly of materials with tailored architecture and functionality. In this Review, we highlight the most essential data on metal-flavonoid systems, presenting a promising alternative in the design of hybrid inorganic-organic materials. We focus mainly on systems containing CuII/I and FeIII/II ions, which are necessary in natural and industrial catalysis. We discuss two kinds of interactions that typically ensure the formation of metal-flavonoid systems, namely coordination and redox reactions. Our intention is to cover the fundamentals of metal-flavonoid systems to show how this knowledge has been already transferred from small molecules to complex materials.

Deep eutectic solvent pretreatment of cork dust - Effects on biomass composition, phenolic extraction and anaerobic degradability

In this study, phenolic compounds using deep eutectic solvents (DES) were extracted from cork dust, and the biogas production potential of DES-treated cork dust samples was determined. The DES treatment was carried out using choline chloride and formic acid (1:2 M ratio) at various temperatures (90, 110 and 130 °C) and treatment times (20, 40 and 60 min) at a solid-to-solvent ratio of 1:10 g mL-1. The highest total phenolic content (137 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) g-1 dry cork dust) was achieved at 110 °C/20 min. The extracts exhibited an antioxidant capacity of up to 56.3 ± 3.1 % 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydazyl (DPPH) inhibition at a dilution rate of 100. DES treatment resulted in minimal sugar solubilization at low temperatures, while approximately 42 % of the xylan fraction in the biomass degraded under severe conditions (e.g., 130 °C/60 min). Catechin, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and gallic acid were the major phenolics in DES extracts. The biogas yield of DES-treated cork dust increased with treatment severity. The highest biogas yield (115.1mLN gVS-1) was observed at 130 °C/60 min, representing an increase of 125 % compared to the untreated sample. SEM images revealed that the surface structure of the samples became smoother after mild pretreatment and rougher after harsh pretreatment. Compositional and FTIR analyses indicated that a higher biogas formation potential was associated with increased cellulose content in the substrate, which could be attributed to hemicellulose solubilization in the hydrolysate. Overall, DES pretreatment effectively enhanced phenol extraction and anaerobic degradability.

Phytochemical Analysis and Anti-Biofilm Potential That Cause Dental Caries from Black Cumin Seeds (Nigella sativa Linn.)

The oral cavity is an excellent place for various microorganisms to grow. Spectrococcus mutans and Spectrococcus sanguinis are Gram-negative bacteria found in the oral cavity as pioneer biofilm formers on the tooth surface that cause caries. Caries treatment has been done with antibiotics and therapeutics, but the resistance level of S. mutans and S. sanguinis bacteria necessitates the exploration of new drug compounds. Black cumin (Nigella sativa Linn.) is known to contain secondary metabolites that have antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-biofilm, anti-inflammatory and antifungal activities. The purpose of this review article is to present data on the potential of Nigella sativa Linn seeds as anti-biofilm. This article will discuss biofilm-forming bacteria, the resistance mechanism of antibiotics, the bioactivity of N. sativa extracts and seed isolates together with the Structure Activity Relationship (SAR) review of N. sativa compound isolates. We collected data from reliable references that will illustrate the potential of N. sativa seeds as anti-biofilm drug.

Secondary Metabolites and Antioxidant Activity against Moko Disease as a Defense Mechanism of Musa spp. from the Ecuadorian Coast Area

The Musa spp. represents the most commonly produced, transitioned, and consumed fruit around the globe, with several important applications in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and food industries. Moko disease is produced by Ralstonia solanacearum-a factor with a high impact on all crops in Ecuador, representing one of the biggest phytosanitary problems. Four of the most common varieties of Musa spp. were tested to identify the metabolic reaction of plants facing Moko disease. The phenolic and flavonoid content has been evaluated as a defense system, and the α-diphenyl-α-picrylhydrazyl free-radical-scavenging method (DPPH), free-radical-scavenging activity (ABTS), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, and liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC-MS) have been adapted to analyze the active compounds with the antioxidant capacity necessary to counteract the pathogenic attack. Our results indicate that all the studied varieties of Musa spp. react in the same way, such that the diseased samples showed a higher accumulation of secondary metabolites with antioxidant capacity compared with the healthy ones, with high active compound synthesis identified during the appearance of Moko disease symptoms. More than 40 compounds and their derivatives (from kaempferol and quercetin glycosides) with protective roles demonstrate the implication of the Musa spp. defense system against R. solanacearum infection.

Harnessing the Power of Polyphenols: A New Frontier in Disease Prevention and Therapy

There are a wide variety of phytochemicals collectively known as polyphenols. Their structural diversity results in a broad range of characteristics and biological effects. Polyphenols can be found in a variety of foods and drinks, including fruits, cereals, tea, and coffee. Studies both in vitro and in vivo, as well as clinical trials, have shown that they possess potent antioxidant activities, numerous therapeutic effects, and health advantages. Dietary polyphenols have demonstrated the potential to prevent many health problems, including obesity, atherosclerosis, high blood sugar, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and neurological diseases. In this paper, the protective effects of polyphenols and the mechanisms behind them are investigated in detail, citing the most recent available literature. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on the role of polyphenols in preventing and managing chronic diseases. The cited publications are derived from in vitro, in vivo, and human-based studies and clinical trials. A more complete understanding of these naturally occurring metabolites will pave the way for the development of novel polyphenol-rich diet and drug development programs. This, in turn, provides further evidence of their health benefits.

Untargeted metabolomics analysis of Gannan navel orange at different storage periods under room temperature using HS-SPME-GC-MS and UPLC-Q-TOF/MS

Navel orange remains metabolized continuously during postharvest storage, but few studies have monitored the changes of these metabolites. Therefore, HS-SPME-GC-MS and UPLC-Q-TOF/MS were used to comprehensively investigate the dynamic changes of the components of Gannan navel orange during storage at room temperature. A total of 62 volatile components and 68 non-volatile components were identified. Principal Component Analysis and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis showed that navel orange under different storage periods were clearly distinguished. Combined with VIP > 1 and p < 0.05, 19 volatile and 27 non-volatile differential metabolites were obtained. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that flavonoid biosynthesis (map00941) was the primary metabolic pathway. The middle storage period had a higher antioxidant enzyme activity, but the malondialdehyde content was the opposite. These results reveal the changes of postharvest components of Gannan navel orange, providing a theoretical basis for the storage and product development of navel orange.

Identification of potent inhibitors of kynurenine-3-monooxygenase from natural products: In silico and in vitro approaches

Existing inhibitors of kynurenine-3-monooxygenase (KMO) have side effects and poorly cross the blood-brain barrier. Therefore, the discovery of new molecules targeting KMO isnecessary.This study aims to develop a novel therapeutic drug targeting KMO using computational methods and experimental validation of natural compounds.The results of our study show that the top four compounds, namely, 3'-Hydroxy-alpha-naphthoflavone exhibited the best docking scores with KMO (-10.0 kcal/mol), followed by 3'-Hydroxy-ss-naphthoflavone (-9.9 kcal/mol), genkwanin (-9.2 kcal/mol) and apigenin(-9.1 kcal/mol) respectively. Molecular dynamics was used to assess the stability of the primary target, KMO, and inhibitor complexes. We found stable interactions of 3'-Hydroxy-ss-naphthoflavone and apigenin with KMO up to 100 ns. Further, kinetic measurements showed that 3'-Hydroxy-alpha-naphthoflavone and 3'-Hydroxy-ss-naphthoflavone induce competitive inhibition with a good IC50 activity (15.85 ± 0.98 μM and 18.71 ± 0.78, respectively), while Genkwanin and Apigenin exhibit non-competitive inhibition mechanism (21.61 ± 0.97 μM and 24.14 ± 1.00 μM, respectively).Drug-likeness features and ADME analysis features also showed that the top four compounds could be used as potential candidates to replace the synthetic KMO inhibitor drugs with known side effects and poor brain-blood barrier penetration.

Integrated Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals the Underlying Antibacterial Mechanisms of the Phytonutrient Quercetin-Induced Fatty Acids Alteration in Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 27217

The utilization of natural products in food preservation represents a promising strategy for the dual benefits of controlling foodborne pathogens and enhancing the nutritional properties of foods. Among the phytonutrients, flavonoids have been shown to exert antibacterial effects by disrupting bacterial cell membrane functionality; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the effect of quercetin on the cell membrane permeability of Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 27217. A combined metabolomic and transcriptomic approach was adopted to examine the regulatory mechanism of quercetin with respect to the fatty acid composition and associated genes. Kinetic analysis and molecular docking simulations were conducted to assess quercetin's inhibition of β-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein reductase (FabG), a potential target in the bacterial fatty acid biosynthesis pathway. Metabolomic and transcriptomic results showed that quercetin increased the ratio of unsaturated to saturated fatty acids and the levels of membrane phospholipids. The bacteria reacted to quercetin-induced stress by attempting to enhance fatty acid biosynthesis; however, quercetin directly inhibited FabG activity, thereby disrupting bacterial fatty acid biosynthesis. These findings provide new insights into the mechanism of quercetin's effects on bacterial cell membranes and suggest potential applications for quercetin in bacterial inhibition.

Metabolic Engineering of Corynebacterium glutamicum for the Production of Flavonoids and Stilbenoids

Flavonoids and stilbenoids, crucial secondary metabolites abundant in plants and fungi, display diverse biological and pharmaceutical activities, including potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. However, conventional production methods, such as chemical synthesis and plant extraction, face challenges in sustainability and yield. Hence, there is a notable shift towards biological production using microorganisms like Escherichia coli and yeast. Yet, the drawbacks of using E. coli and yeast as hosts for these compounds persist. For instance, yeast's complex glycosylation profile can lead to intricate protein production scenarios, including hyperglycosylation issues. Consequently, Corynebacterium glutamicum emerges as a promising alternative, given its adaptability and recent advances in metabolic engineering. Although extensively used in biotechnological applications, the potential production of flavonoid and stilbenoid in engineered C. glutamicum remains largely untapped compared to E. coli. This review explores the potential of metabolic engineering in C. glutamicum for biosynthesis, highlighting its versatility as a cell factory and assessing optimization strategies for these pathways. Additionally, various metabolic engineering methods, including genomic editing and biosensors, and cofactor regeneration are evaluated, with a focus on C. glutamicum. Through comprehensive discussion, the review offers insights into future perspectives in production, aiding researchers and industry professionals in the field.

Anti-Inflammatory Potential of the Anti-Diabetic Drug Metformin in the Prevention of Inflammatory Complications and Infectious Diseases Including COVID-19: A Narrative Review

Metformin, a widely used first-line anti-diabetic therapy for the treatment of type-2 diabetes, has been shown to lower hyperglycemia levels in the blood by enhancing insulin actions. For several decades this drug has been used globally to successfully control hyperglycemia. Lactic acidosis has been shown to be a major adverse effect of metformin in some type-2 diabetic patients, but several studies suggest that it is a typically well-tolerated and safe drug in most patients. Further, recent studies also indicate its potential to reduce the symptoms associated with various inflammatory complications and infectious diseases including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). These studies suggest that besides diabetes, metformin could be used as an adjuvant drug to control inflammatory and infectious diseases. In this article, we discuss the current understanding of the role of the anti-diabetic drug metformin in the prevention of various inflammatory complications and infectious diseases in both diabetics and non-diabetics.

Puerarin-A Promising Flavonoid: Biosynthesis, Extraction Methods, Analytical Techniques, and Biological Effects

Flavonoids, a variety of plant secondary metabolites, are known for their diverse biological activities. Isoflavones are a subgroup of flavonoids that have gained attention for their potential health benefits. Puerarin is one of the bioactive isoflavones found in the Kudzu root and Pueraria genus, which is widely used in alternative Chinese medicine, and has been found to be effective in treating chronic conditions like cardiovascular diseases, liver diseases, gastric diseases, respiratory diseases, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. Puerarin has been extensively researched and used in both scientific and clinical studies over the past few years. The purpose of this review is to provide an up-to-date exploration of puerarin biosynthesis, the most common extraction methods, analytical techniques, and biological effects, which have the potential to provide a new perspective for medical and pharmaceutical research and development.

A Comprehensive Review of Licorice: The Preparation, Chemical Composition, Bioactivities and Its Applications

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza) is a medicinal and food homologue of perennial plants derived from the dried roots and rhizomes of the genus Glycyrrhiza in the legume family. In recent years, the comprehensive utilization of licorice resources has attracted people's attention. It is widely utilized to treat diseases, health food products, food production, and other industrial applications. Furthermore, numerous bioactive components of licorice are found using advanced extraction processes, which mainly include polyphenols (flavonoids, dihydrostilbenes, benzofurans, and coumarin), triterpenoids, polysaccharides, alkaloids, and volatile oils, all of which have been reported to possess a variety of pharmacological characteristics, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, neuroprotective, antidepressive, antidiabetic, antiparasitic, antisex hormone, skin effects, anticariogenic, antitussive, and expectorant activities. Thereby, all of these compounds promote the development of novel and more effective licorice-derived products. This paper reviews the progress of research on extraction techniques, chemical composition, bioactivities, and applications of licorice to provide a reference for further development and application of licorice in different areas.

An Overview on Atopic Dermatitis, Oxidative Stress, and Psychological Stress: Possible Role of Nutraceuticals as an Additional Therapeutic Strategy

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with a considerable impact on patients' quality of life. Its etiology is multifactorial and, among the predisposing factors, a role is played by oxidative stress. Pollution, recurrent infections, and psychological stress contribute to oxidative stress, amplifying the production of proinflammatory cytokines and worsening barrier damage. There are various oxidative stress mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of AD. Moreover, AD often appears to be associated with psychological disorders such as alexithymia, depression, and anxiety due to severe itching and related insomnia, as well as social distress and isolation. The increasing incidence of AD requires the evaluation of additional therapeutic approaches in order to reduce the psychological burden of this condition. Our review aims to evaluate the role of some nutraceuticals in AD treatment and its related psychological comorbidities. The combination of some natural compounds (flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes, isothiocyanates) with traditional AD treatments might be useful in improving the effectiveness of therapy, by reducing chronic inflammation and preventing flare-ups, and in promoting corticosteroid sparing. In addition, some of these nutraceuticals also appear to have a role in the treatment of psychological disorders, although the underlying oxidative stress mechanisms are different from those already known for AD.

Integrated HS-GC-IMS and UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS-based metabolomics revealed the characteristics and differential volatile and nonvolatile metabolites of different citrus peels

Citrus is an important genus in the Rutaceae family, and citrus peels can be used in both food and herbal medicine. However, the bulk of citrus peels are discarded as waste by the fruit processing industry, causing environmental pollution. This study aimed to provide guidelines for the rational and effective use of citrus peels by elucidating the volatile and nonvolatile metabolites within them using metabolomics based on headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-Q-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry. In addition, the antioxidant activities of the citrus peels were evaluated using DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS radical scavenging, and ferric reducing antioxidant power. In total, 103 volatile and 53 nonvolatile metabolites were identified and characterized. Alcohols, aldehydes, and terpenes constituted 87.36% of the volatile metabolites, while flavonoids and carboxylic acids accounted for 85.46% of the nonvolatile metabolites. Furthermore, (Z)-2-penten-1-ol, L-pipecolinic acid, and limonin were identified as characteristic components of Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. Ponkan (PK), C. reticulata 'Unshiu' (CLU), and C. reticulata 'Wo Gan' (WG), respectively. Principal component analysis and partial least squares discriminant analysis indicated that C. reticulata Blanco 'Chun Jian' (CJ), PK, CLU, and C. reticulata 'Dahongpao' (DHP) were clustered together. DHP is a traditional Chinese medicine documented in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, suggesting that the chemical compositions of CJ, PK, and CLU may also have medicinal values similar to those of DHP. Moreover, DHP, PK, C. reticulata 'Ai Yuan 38'(AY38), CJ, C. reticulata 'Gan Ping'(GP), and C. reticulata 'Qing Jian'(QJ) displayed better antioxidant activities, recommending their use as additives in cosmetics and food. Correlation analysis suggested that some polyphenols including tangeritin, nobiletin, skullcapflavone II, genistein, caffeic acid, and isokaempferide were potential antioxidant compounds in citrus peel. The results of this study deepen our understanding of the differences in metabolites and antioxidant activities of different citrus peel varieties and ultimately provide guidance for the full and rational use of citrus peels.

Multi-omics analysis reveals key regulatory defense pathways and genes involved in salt tolerance of rose plants

Salinity stress causes serious damage to crops worldwide, limiting plant production. However, the metabolic and molecular mechanisms underlying the response to salt stress in rose (Rosa spp.) remain poorly studied. We therefore performed a multi-omics investigation of Rosa hybrida cv. Jardin de Granville (JDG) and Rosa damascena Mill. (DMS) under salt stress to determine the mechanisms underlying rose adaptability to salinity stress. Salt treatment of both JDG and DMS led to the buildup of reactive oxygen species (H2O2). Palisade tissue was more severely damaged in DMS than in JDG, while the relative electrolyte permeability was lower and the soluble protein content was higher in JDG than in DMS. Metabolome profiling revealed significant alterations in phenolic acid, lipids, and flavonoid metabolite levels in JDG and DMS under salt stress. Proteome analysis identified enrichment of flavone and flavonol pathways in JDG under salt stress. RNA sequencing showed that salt stress influenced primary metabolism in DMS, whereas it substantially affected secondary metabolism in JDG. Integrating these datasets revealed that the phenylpropane pathway, especially the flavonoid pathway, is strongly enhanced in rose under salt stress. Consistent with this, weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) identified the key regulatory gene chalcone synthase 1 (CHS1), which is important in the phenylpropane pathway. Moreover, luciferase assays indicated that the bHLH74 transcription factor binds to the CHS1 promoter to block its transcription. These results clarify the role of the phenylpropane pathway, especially flavonoid and flavonol metabolism, in the response to salt stress in rose.

Application of deep eutectic solvents on extraction of flavonoids

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs), as a new type of eco-friendly solvent, have attracted increasing attention on the extraction and separation of flavonoid compounds from various samples, owing to their excellent properties such as biodegradability and ease of handling with very low toxicity. This article provides a status review of the applications of DESs in the extraction of flavonoids, including the introduction of flavonoid compounds, the properties and superiority of DESs, and extraction methods (ultrasonic-assisted extraction, heating reflux extraction, matrix solid-phase dispersion, and solid-phase extraction). Finally, prospects and challenges in the application of DESs on extraction and separation are extensively elucidated and critically reviewed.