Phytochemicals and Their Usefulness in the Maintenance of Health

Recent Research on the Role of Phytochemicals from Ginseng in Management of Osteosarcoma, Osteoporosis, and Osteoarthritis

Ginseng phytochemicals have attracted considerable attention for their potential therapeutic applications in bone-related diseases including osteosarcoma, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis. Recent research has highlighted the promising effects of ginsenosides and polysaccharides from ginseng by studying multi-target effects and combination therapies in osteosarcoma progression. Beyond osteosarcoma, ginseng phytochemicals have been explored for their effects on osteoporosis. Various ginsenosides and ginseng extract were shown to regulate signaling pathways involved in activating osteoblast and inhibiting osteoclast in vitro and in vivo models. Ginseng ginsenosides have also demonstrated potential anti-osteoarthritic properties. Recent studies discussed how ginsenoside reduced inflammation and cartilage degradation as a therapeutic candidate for osteoarthritis management. In this review, we examine the anti-osteosarcoma, anti-osteoporotic, and anti-osteoarthritic activities of ginseng-derived phytochemicals reported in studies published between 2014 and 2024. This review also provides a comprehensive overview of the working mechanisms of these compounds in various model systems. Furthermore, we address the limitations of current research approaches and outline future directions to maximize the therapeutic application of ginseng phytochemicals in the management of bone-related diseases.

Green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles using E. cardamomum and zinc nitrate precursor: a dual-functional material for water purification and antibacterial applications

This study presents an eco-friendly, bio-engineered approach for synthesizing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Elettaria cardamomum pod (EC-pod) extract, offering a sustainable alternative for environmental remediation and antimicrobial applications. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms the wurtzite crystalline phase, with an average particle size of 20.87 nm. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy reveals a characteristic absorption peak at 372 nm, corresponding to an energy band gap of 3.33 eV. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy highlights the role of phytochemicals as capping and stabilizing agents. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) confirm multi-architectural morphologies, including hexagonal, spherical, rod-like, and pentagonal structures, with energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy verifying elemental purity. The photocatalytic efficiency of EC-pod:ZnO in degrading malachite green (MG) dye under UV irradiation reaches 99.8% removal within 160 minutes, with a high quantum yield of 2.73 × 10-3 molecules per photon and a space-time yield of 1.37 × 10-5 molecules per photon per mg. Additionally, EC-pod:ZnO exhibits significant antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria, showcasing its dual functionality as a potential photocatalyst and antimicrobial agent. This nature-inspired ZnO nanomaterial offers an economical, scalable, and sustainable solution for environmental and biomedical applications, highlighting its potential in wastewater treatment and microbial control.

Phytochemical profiling of Sansevieria trifasciata and its efficacy against Dynapar-induced toxicity to Danio rerio

Sansevieria trifasciata (S. trifasciata) has been widely recognized in traditional medicinal systems for its therapeutic potential from the Bundelkhand region of India. The current study investigates the potential efficacy of S. trifasciata against Dynapar (diclofenac)-induced toxicity. We conducted phytochemicals screening and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of S. trifasciata leaf aqueous extract (STLAE), revealing diverse bioactive compounds, including saponins, phenols, tannins, glycosides, carbohydrates, and terpenoids. GC-MS analysis further identified 10 specific compounds, notably nitrogen-containing heterocycles, esters, amides, and methoxyacetic acid derivatives, providing molecular insights into the plant's traditional medicinal applications. Using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an ethically sound vertebrate model, we established Dynapar's 96-hour median lethal concentration (LC50) at 1.5 mL/L (112.5 mg/L). Co-administration experiments demonstrated that STLAE at 2.2 mL/L (220 mg/L) completely prevented Dynapar-induced mortality, suggesting a defined therapeutic window for protective effects. Interestingly, STLAE showed a dose-dependent response curve, with lower and higher concentrations exhibiting reduced protection, highlighting the importance of precise dosing in natural product applications. Our findings provide the first experimental evidence supporting S. trifasciata's traditional use in treating inflammatory conditions and suggest its potential as a natural intervention against NSAID-induced toxicity. The identified nitrogen-containing compounds and other phytoconstituents likely contribute to the observed protective effects by modulating oxidative stress pathways implicated in Dynapar toxicity. This work establishes groundwork for further investigation into S. trifasciata as a safer alternative for managing chronic inflammatory conditions.

Extraction and Optimization of Lycopene From Selected Fruits and Their Assessment as an Ultraviolet Ray Protectant for Escherichia coli

Lycopene is known for protecting the skin from harmful UV rays, which is why it is widely used in cosmetics. In the present investigation, fruits and vegetables like Capsicum annuum (C.a.), Capsicum frutescens (C.f.), Carica papaya (C. p.), Citrullus lanatus (C. l.), and Solanum lycopersicum (S. l.) were used for the extraction and isolation of lycopene. The lycopene was isolated in acetone to solubilize hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules and hydrolyzed into 5% sodium sulfate in a protic solvent mechanism. The measurement of lycopene content was done by UV-Vis spectrophotometer at 503 nm (λ), and the absence peak was in the range of 440-530 nm for the extracted lycopene. Furthermore, all the Petri plates were coated with a film of lycopene extracted at different concentrations on the bottom surface of the lid of the Petri plate. The concentrations of lycopene present in the samples were in the following ascending order from lowest to highest concentration: (C.a.) < (C.f.) < (C. p.) < (C. l.) < (S. l.). The pH value of the S. lycopersicum (S. l.) sample was found to be 6.2, the maximum amount of lycopene was found to be 3.36024 μg/mL, and the pH value of the C. annuum (C.a.) sample was found to be 4.5 and the minimum amount. Lycopene was found to be 0.31824 μg/mL. The R-square of the obtained pH value was increased with the adequate amount of lycopene of good quality; the correlation variables between the pH value and lycopene percentage remained the same using the equation y = 56.60×-250.5, and their R 2 value was 1 > 0.968, found to be degraded, and lycopene percentage was calculated. Escherichia coli colonies protected from UV rays by lycopene film were counted after different intervals (24, 48, and 72 h). The effect of UV rays was measured in percentage at 10, 20, and 30 min of exposure to UV rays. Sample S. lycopersicum had the highest UV-ray blocking potential, that is, 99.75%, and sample C. annuum had the lowest UV-ray blocking percentage, that is, 77.78%. Further research and development will be required to determine its effectiveness, stability, and practicality for creating lycopene films as a barrier against UV rays.

Phytochemicals and their Nanoformulations for Overcoming Drug Resistance in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Drug resistance remains a significant challenge in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), leading to therapeutic failure and poor patient prognosis. Numerous mechanisms, including drug efflux pumps, altered tumor microenvironment (TME), and dysregulated cell death pathways, contribute to the development of resistance against conventional chemotherapeutic agents, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. As resistance to traditional treatments continues to emerge, there is an urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies to overcome these challenges. Phytochemicals are naturally occurring bioactive compounds and have demonstrated remarkable potential in targeting multiple resistance mechanisms simultaneously.

METHOD

This review comprehensively overviews the current understanding of drug resistance mechanisms in HNSCC and explores innovative strategies utilizing phytochemicals and their nanoformulations to overcome these resistance mechanisms, with a particular focus on recent developments and future perspectives in this field.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Phytochemicals with anticancer properties include a wide range of herbal-derived molecules such as flavonoids, stilbenes, curcuminoids, alkaloids, traditional Chinese medicine, and others. These compounds can modulate ATP-binding cassette transporters, reverse epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), target cancer stem cells (CSCs), and regulate various signaling pathways involved in drug resistance. The integration of phytochemicals into advanced nanoformulation systems has also shown a remarkable improvement in enhancing their bioavailability, stability, and targeted delivery to the TME, potentially improving their therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, the combination of phytochemicals with conventional chemotherapeutic agents, targeted molecular therapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has exhibited synergistic effects, offering a promising approach to restoring drug sensitivity in resistant HNSCC cells.

CONCLUSION

Phytochemicals and their nanoformulations may improve response of HNSCC to therapy by alleviating drug resistance.

Phytochemical-based nanosystems: recent advances and emerging application in antiviral photodynamic therapy

Phytochemicals are typically natural bioactive compounds or metabolites produced by plants. Phytochemical-loaded nanocarrier systems, designed to overcome bioavailability limitations and enhance therapeutic effects, have garnered significant attention in recent years. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has intensified interest in the therapeutic application of phytochemicals to combat viral infections. This review explores nanoparticle-based treatment strategies incorporating phytochemicals for antiviral application, highlighting their demonstrated antiviral mechanisms. It specifically examines the antiviral activities of phytochemical-loaded nanosystems against (i) influenza virus (IAV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); (ii) mosquito-borne viruses [dengue (DENV), Zika (ZIKV), and Chikungunya (CHIKV)]; and (iii) sexually transmitted/blood borne viruses [e.g. herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)]. Furthermore, this review highlights the emerging role of these nanosystems in photodynamic therapy (PDT)-mediated attenuation of viral proliferation, and offers a perspective on the future directions of research in this promising area of multimodal therapeutic approach.

Probiotics and Food Bioactives: Unraveling Their Impact on Gut Microbiome, Inflammation, and Metabolic Health

This review paper delves into the role of probiotics and food bioactives in influencing gut health and overall well-being, within the context of probiotics and food bioactives, emphasizing their roles in modulating inflammation, gut microbiota, and metabolic health. Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, primarily through their impact on the gut microbiome; a complex community of microorganisms crucial for maintaining health. The review aims to elucidate how probiotics, incorporated into both traditional and modern food systems, can enhance gut health and address metabolic disorders. It examines the types of probiotics present in various foods and their mechanisms of action, including their effects on immune function and metabolic health. By exploring the links between probiotics and health outcomes such as digestive health, immune support, and mental health, the review identifies specific conditions where probiotics show significant promise. Hurldes such as inconsistencies in research findings, variability in probiotic strains, and dosages are addressed. The paper also suggests future research directions, including the potential for personalized probiotic interventions. The review concludes by summarizing key findings and emphasizing the critical role of probiotics in food systems for promoting overall health and mitigating metabolic diseases.

A Comprehensive Review of Antimicrobial Agents Against Clinically Important Bacterial Pathogens: Prospects for Phytochemicals

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) hinders the effective treatment of a range of bacterial infections, posing a serious threat to public health globally, as it challenges the currently available antimicrobial drugs. Among the various modes of antimicrobial action, antimicrobial agents that act on membranes have the most promising efficacy. However, there are no consolidated reports on the shortcomings of these drugs, existing challenges, or the potential applications of phytochemicals that act on membranes. Therefore, in this review, we have addressed the challenges and focused on various phytochemicals as antimicrobial agents acting on the membranes of clinically important bacterial pathogens. Antibacterial phytochemicals comprise diverse group of agents found in a wide range of plants. These compounds have been found to disrupt cell membranes, inhibit enzymes, interfere with protein synthesis, generate reactive oxygen species, modulate quorum sensing, and inhibit bacterial adhesion, making them promising candidates for the development of novel antibacterial therapies. Recently, polyphenolic compounds have been reported to have proven efficacy against nosocomial multidrug-resistant pathogens. However, more high-quality studies, improved standards, and the adoption of rules and regulations are required to firmly confirm the clinical efficacy of phytochemicals derived from plants. Identifying potential challenges, thrust areas of research, and considering viable approaches is essential for the successful clinical translation of these compounds.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential for Breast Cancer of Phytochemicals and Secondary Metabolites in Marjoram, Thyme, and Persimmon

Background/Objectives: Breast cancer is the most common cause of death in women worldwide and the most commonly diagnosed cancer. Although several therapeutic approaches are widely used against breast cancer, their adverse effects often lead to symptoms severely affecting the quality of life. Alternative methods have been explored to reduce these adverse effects, and nutraceuticals have yielded promising results. This review will discuss mechanisms of action and potential applications against breast cancer of some nutraceuticals, specifically marjoram, thyme, and persimmon leaves. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across the public databases of PubMed, PubChem, and Google Scholar, with a specific focus on the plant extracts and phytochemicals of interest, as well as the anticarcinogenic mechanisms. Results: Ethnopharmacological and biochemical evidence support the anticarcinogenic role of marjoram, thyme, and persimmon. Numerous phytochemicals contained in these herbs' extracts, like terpenes and flavonoids, possess remarkable potential to effectively treat breast cancer. Discussion: The phytochemicals contained in the reviewed nutraceuticals target the main cellular pathways involved in cell growth and disrupted in carcinogenesis, such as Nf-κB, MAPK/p38, TNF-α/IL-1β, and PI3K/Akt. The mechanisms of action of these compounds can successfully limit the abnormal growth and proliferation of cancerous breast cells. Conclusions: The potential use of the phytochemicals discussed in this review, either alone or in combination, may offer a valid alternative to chemotherapy against breast cancer with virtually no adverse effects, and further research on these molecules may lead to the identification of additional chemo-preventative and chemotherapeutic candidates.

Gastroprotective Efficacy of North African Medicinal Plants: A Review on Their Therapeutic Potential for Peptic Ulcers

Peptic ulcer disease remains a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder worldwide. Current treatments often have limitations, sparking interest in alternative therapies from medicinal plants. This review examines the gastroprotective potential of 54 North African medicinal plants against peptic ulcers. An extensive literature search was conducted, focusing on plants with preclinical and clinical evidence of anti-ulcer efficacy and documented use in North African traditional medicine. The review identified several promising plant species, such as licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), olive (Olea europaea), pomegranate (Punica granatum), Aloe vera, and black seed (Nigella sativa), along with their bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. These compounds exhibit gastroprotective properties through multiple mechanisms, such as enhancing the gastric mucosal barrier, inhibiting acid secretion, displaying antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, promoting ulcer healing, and combating Helicobacter pylori infection. The evidence presented includes in vitro assays, animal models, and some clinical studies. While many of the 53 plants reviewed demonstrated significant anti-ulcer effects compared to standard drugs, further clinical research is needed to establish efficacy and safety in humans. The synergistic actions of phytochemical mixtures in medicinal plant extracts likely contribute to their therapeutic potential. This review highlights the role these North African medicinal plants may play in the prevention and treatment of peptic ulcers and identifies promising candidates for further research and development of evidence-based botanical therapies.

Massa Medicata Fermentata, a Functional Food for Improving the Metabolic Profile via Prominent Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Massa Medicata Fermentata (MMF) is a naturally fermented product used to treat indigestion and increase stomach activity in traditional medicine. This study examined the ability of the hydrothermal extract of MMF to scavenge free radicals corresponding to biological oxidative stresses, further protecting essential biomolecules. The anti-inflammatory effects of MMF were evaluated in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages and zebrafish. In addition, the effects of MMF on the body mass index (BMI) and cholesterol accumulation in adult zebrafish fed a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) for three weeks were examined. MMF prevented the DNA and lipid damage caused by oxidative stress, inhibited LDL oxidation, and reduced the expression of cytokines and related proteins (MAPK and NFκB), with prominent anti-oxidative pathway (NRF2-HO-1) activation properties. LPS-induced NO production was reduced, and the increase in BMI and TC caused by the HCD diet was suppressed by MMF in zebrafish embryos or adult zebrafish. The bioactive aglycone of quercetin may be contributing to the mechanisms of systemic effects. MMF has excellent antioxidant properties and is useful for improving inflammation status and metabolic profile, thus highlighting its potential as a healthy, functional food.

Applications of nanomaterials with enzyme-like activity for the detection of phytochemicals and hazardous substances in plant samples

Plants such as herbs, vegetables, fruits, and cereals are closely related to human life. Developing effective testing methods to ensure their safety and quantify their active components are of significant importance. Recently, nanomaterials with enzyme-like activity (known as nanozymes) have been widely developed in various assays, including colorimetric, fluorescence, chemiluminescence, and electrochemical analysis. This review presents the latest advances in analyzing phytochemicals and hazardous substances in plant samples based on nanozymes, including some active ingredients, organophosphorus pesticides, heavy metal ions, and mycotoxins. Additionally, the current shortcomings and challenges of the actual sample analysis were discussed.

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.

Natural Compounds for Preventing Age-Related Diseases and Cancers

Aging is a multifaceted process influenced by hereditary factors, lifestyle, and environmental elements. As time progresses, the human body experiences degenerative changes in major functions. The external and internal signs of aging manifest in various ways, including skin dryness, wrinkles, musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. Additionally, cancer, like aging, is a complex disease that arises from the accumulation of various genetic and epigenetic alterations. Circadian clock dysregulation has recently been identified as an important risk factor for aging and cancer development. Natural compounds and herbal medicines have gained significant attention for their potential in preventing age-related diseases and inhibiting cancer progression. These compounds demonstrate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, and anti-angiogenic effects as well as circadian clock regulation. This review explores age-related diseases, cancers, and the potential of specific natural compounds in targeting the key features of these conditions.

Impacts of oxidative stress and anti-oxidants on the development, pathogenesis, and therapy of sickle cell disease: A comprehensive review

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most severe monogenic hemoglobinopathy caused by a single genetic mutation that leads to repeated polymerization and depolymerization of hemoglobin resulting in intravascular hemolysis, cell adhesion, vascular occlusion, and ischemia-reperfusion injury. Hemolysis causes oxidative damage indirectly by generating reactive oxygen species through various pathophysiological mechanisms, which include hemoglobin autoxidation, endothelial nitric oxide synthase uncoupling, reduced nitric oxide bioavailability, and elevated levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine. Red blood cells have a built-in anti-oxidant system that includes enzymes like sodium dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase, along with free radical scavenging molecules, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione, which help them to fight oxidative damage. However, these anti-oxidants may not be sufficient to prevent the effects of oxidative stress in SCD patients. Therefore, in line with a recent FDA request that the focus to be placed on the development of innovative therapies for SCD that address the root cause of the disease, there is a need for therapies that target oxidative stress and restore redox balance in SCD patients. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the role of oxidative stress in SCD and the potential benefits of anti-oxidant therapies. It also discusses the challenges and limitations of these therapies and suggests future directions for research and development.