Impact of sodium carbonate processing on the chemical profile and antimicrobial properties of saussurea lappa root extracts

Theobroma cacao is commonly classified as Criollo, Forastero, or Trinitario. In recent years, Criollo cacao has been revalorized due to its low volume production and the increase in the premium chocolate market. Besides, the origin and post-harvest processes affect the chemical and volatile composition of the cocoa beans that are transformed into liquor as raw material for chocolate production. Further, there is no published information regarding the chemical composition and volatile profile of Colombian Criollo cocoa liquor. Based on this, the present study aimed to characterize and differentiate the chemical composition between three Colombian cocoa liquors (two Criollo varieties [Montaña and Olivo] and one Trinitario) and correlate the content of free amino acids (FAAs) with the volatile profile. The quantification of theobromine, caffeine, (+)-catechin, (-)-epicatechin, and FAA was performed by HPLC-DAD. The volatile content was analyzed by HS-SPME with GC-MS. From the results, 80 volatile compounds were identified in the Criollo samples with aldehydes, alcohols, and pyrazines as the predominant groups. The value of the Pearson correlation coefficient (-1 to 1) confirms the correlation between the FAA and volatile content; specifically, alanine content was correlated with acetophenone developed in Montaña samples. Additionally, the chemical profiles allowed the differentiation between cocoa varieties. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The chemical and volatile profile allows the selection of cocoa liquors with specific characteristics for premium chocolate production in an increasing market around the world. This characterization contributes to the knowledge and revalorization of Criollo cacaos that are reducing its harvest in comparison with commercial varieties with major production but low complexity in flavors.

Preen gland bacteria are thought to be the key producers of preen oil components such as chemosignalling molecules including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and antimicrobial compounds including peptides and antimicrobial VOCs. However, data on the preen oil bacteriome and chemical composition are limited to a small subset of bird species, and the presence of antimicrobial peptides is largely unexplored. Here, we performed an exploratory study to characterize, for the first time, the preen oil chemical and proteomic profiles and to explore the possible contribution of the bacteriome to the production of preen oil VOCs and antimicrobial peptides (bacteriocins) in eight passerine species, each represented by a single individual. Preen oil bacteriome, chemical and proteomic profiles varied among birds. The bacterial profiles were dominated by the genera Streptococcus, Lactococcus, Corynebacterium and Cutibacterium. The chemical profiles mainly consisted of alcohols, ketones and carboxylic acids. The biological functions primarily associated with the proteomic profiles were proteolysis and response to oxidative stress. Although we were unable to explore a direct association between the bacteriome and chemical profiles, the preen oil contained bacteriocin- and VOC-producing bacterial genera capable of producing detected microbially-derived VOCs (mVOCs), the relative abundance of which varied between birds. Riparian species showed the highest chemical diversity and high abundances of putative preen oil mVOC-producing bacteria, which could suggest habitat-specific adaptations. This exploratory study may significantly contribute to the formulation of hypotheses on the potential role of host ecological factors in the variation of preen oil bacterial, chemical and proteomic profiles in passerines.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10482-025-02182-w.

The aims of the present research include (1) optimization of extraction from Vaccinium myrtillus leaf waste via investigation of plant material:medium ratio, extraction medium, and extraction period, employing extractions at room and high temperatures, or using ultrasound and microwaves (M, HAE, UAE, and MAE, respectively), (2) physicochemical characterization, and (3) investigation of extract biological potential. The statistical analysis revealed that optimal levels of parameters for the greatest polyphenolic yield were a proportion of 1:30 g/mL, ethyl alcohol 50% (v/v) during 2 min of microwave irradiation. By LC-MS analysis, 29 phenolic components were detected; HAE showed the highest richness of almost all determined polyphenols, while chlorogenic acid and quercetin 3-O-glucuronide were dominant. All extracts showed a high inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus growth. The effect of different parameters on extracts' antioxidant capacity depended on the used tests. The extracts also showed a stimulative influence on keratinocyte viability and anti-inflammatory activity (proven in cell-based ELISA and erythrocyte stabilization assays). The extraction procedure significantly affected the extraction yield (MAE ≥ maceration ≥ UAE ≥ HAE), whereas conductivity, density, surface tension, and viscosity varied in a narrow range. The presented research provides evidence on the optimal extraction conditions and technique, chemical composition, and antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and keratinocyte viability properties of bilberry extracts for potential applications in pharmacy and cosmetics.

Self-induced anaerobiosis coffee fermentation: Impact on microbial communities, chemical composition and sensory quality of coffee

Background: Sideritis scardica and S. raeseri are very popular medicinal plants in Albania, Macedonia, and Bulgaria. Objective: Comparison of the phenolic, flavonoid, and diterpene contents and detailed chemical profiles, as well as data on antioxidant activity, comprising plant material from different locations in the Balkan Peninsula. Materials and Methods: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents for the studied Sideritis samples were determined spectrophotometrically. By HPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn analysis, 48 individual phenolic constituents were completely or tentatively identified. Chemical profiling of Sideritis major diterpenes and their quantification was performed by HPLC-ESI-MSD TOF analysis. A combination of two methods (ORAC and DPPH) was applied for evaluation of the antioxidant capacity of Sideritis extracts. Results: The results obtained demonstrated that Sideritis samples (S. scardica and S. raeseri) collected from Albania, Bulgaria and Macedonia are similar in their chemical profiles (they all contain phenylethanoid glycosides, flavonoid 7-O-diglycosides and acetylated flavonoid 7-Odiglycosides, and diterpenes: main components siderol and sideridiol); and antioxidant activity. Although some differences exist, they are not essential. Conclusion: This fact is a good basis for the formulation of range for parameters for quality control of Sideritis extracts and plant material. The studied cultivated plant material is similar in its chemical composition, profile and antioxidant activity to the wild growing samples.

The objectives of this study were to: (1) Use molecular spectroscopy as a novel technique to quantify protein molecular structures in relation to its chemical profiles and bioenergy values in oil-seeds and co-products from bio-oil processing. (2) Determine and compare: (a) protein molecular structure using Fourier transform infrared (FT/IR-ATR) molecular spectroscopy technique; (b) bioactive compounds, anti-nutritional factors, and chemical composition; and (c) bioenergy values in oil seeds (canola seeds), co-products (meal or pellets) from bio-oil processing plants in Canada in comparison with China. (3) Determine the relationship between protein molecular structural features and nutrient profiles in oil-seeds and co-products from bio-oil processing. Our results showed the possibility to characterize protein molecular structure using FT/IR molecular spectroscopy. Processing induced changes between oil seeds and co-products were found in the chemical, bioenergy profiles and protein molecular structure. However, no strong correlation was found between the chemical and nutrient profiles of oil seeds (canola seeds) and their protein molecular structure. On the other hand, co-products were strongly correlated with protein molecular structure in the chemical profile and bioenergy values. Generally, comparisons of oil seeds (canola seeds) and co-products (meal or pellets) in Canada, in China, and between Canada and China indicated the presence of variations among different crusher plants and bio-oil processing products.

Chemical and radiological profiles of waste streams from US Department of Energy (DOE) low-level mixed wastes (LLMWs) have been developed by Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) to provide technical support information for evaluating waste management alternatives in the Office of Environmental Management Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (EM PEIS). The chemical profiles were developed for LLMW generated from both Waste Management (WM) operations and from Environmental Restoration (ER) activities at DOE facilities. Information summarized in the 1994 DOE Mixed Waste Inventory Report (MWIR-2), the Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) Automated Remedial Assessment Methodology (ARAM), and associated PNL supporting data on ER secondary waste streams that will be treated in WM treatment facilities were used as the sources for developing chemical profiles. The methodology for developing the LLMW chemical profiles is discussed, and the chemical profiles developed from data for contact-handled (CH) non-alpha LLMW are presented in this paper. The hazardous chemical composition of remote-handled (RH) LLMW and alpha LLMW follow the chemical profiles developed for CH non-alpha LLMW.

Ficus carica L. is traditionally used for its medicinal properties. Despite its widespread use, the mechanisms underlying its biological activity remain insufficiently explored. This study aims to investigate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties of the ethanolic leaf extract of F. carica harvested in Armenia, alongside its chemical composition. The leaves of F. carica were collected at various growing periods, and ethanolic extracts were prepared. Radical-scavenging activity was assessed using DPPH assay. Thermal stability of extract components was tested at 70 °C and under autoclave conditions. Metal-chelating activity was also determined. Chemical profiling was conducted by LC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis. The biological activity of the extract was tested in using Escherichia coli QC772 (E. coli K12 derivative, carrying soda-lacZ genes), and BV-2 Wt and Acyl-CoA oxidase 1 deficient (Acox1−/−) cell lines, focusing on nitric oxide (NO) production, antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, catalase), and lipid peroxidation. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the disk diffusion method and growth rate monitoring. To elucidate the potential mechanisms of the antibiotic activity of test extracts, the changes in H+-fluxes across the cell membrane and their impact on the H+-translocating FOF1-ATPase activity in E. coli explored. The extract showed strong antioxidant activity, which varied by leaf harvesting time. Bioactive compounds remained relatively stable at up to 70 °C, but were partially degraded under autoclaving. High total flavonoid and phenolic content strongly correlated with biological activity. The extract significantly reduced NO production and lipid peroxidation in E. coli and both microglial cell models, while enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity. Notable antimicrobial activity and metal-chelating capacity were observed. The results indicated that plant extract enhanced H+-fluxes in the investigated bacterial strain and promoted ATPase activity, suggesting a potential role in altering bacterial membrane integrity. LC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis identified over 140 distinct phytochemicals mainly belonging to flavonoids and phenolics. The ethanolic leaf extract of F. carica demonstrates potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, supported by rich phytochemical diversity. These findings suggest its therapeutic potential in oxidative stress- and inflammation-related conditions, warranting further pharmacological studies.

Background and aim of work Liver fibrosis is a major health problem associated with high morbidity and mortality, particularly in Egypt. It is mainly regulated by hepatic stellate cells, which acquire a fibrogenic character in response to oxidant stress and inflammatory cytokines. We tried to test the efficacy of Saussurea lappa ( Sl ) root extract on the reversion of the already established liver fibrosis as this extract was reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Materials and methods A total of 24 albino rats were divided into four groups: negative control group, carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ) fibrosis model group, spontaneous resolution group, CCl 4 followed by Sl root extract group. In all rats, serum alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, liver malonaldehyde and liver reduced glutathione were measured. Histopathological assessment were carried out through haematoxylin and eosin (H&E), sirius red staining and α-smooth muscle actin immunohistochemical staining with evaluation of the fibrosis grade and percentage of the area occupied by collagen fibres. Results Administration of Sl root extract for 4 weeks, after 8 weeks of CCl 4 injection, caused a significant decrease in CCl 4 -induced rise in plasma levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase, liver malonaldehyde and the percentage of collagen area and an increase in liver glutathione with almost preserved liver architecture, less inflammatory infiltration, less collagen deposition, fewer thinner septa, less bridging fibrosis and less positive reaction for α-smooth muscle actin as compared with the spontaneous resolution group. Conclusion These data indicate that Sl root extract can accelerate matrix degradation and reversion from liver fibrosis induced by CCl 4 in rats. This might be through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities and through inhibition of the activated hepatic stellate cells or probably inducing their apoptosis.

The study examines the chemical composition and antimicrobial properties of petroleum ether and hydro-methanolic extracts of Achillea santolina from Algeria. Chemical profiling was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection for the hydro-methanolic extract and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for the petroleum ether extract. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were evaluated using the disc diffusion method and broth dilution technique. Epicatechin (24.54mg/g extract), and camphor (19.18%) were identified as main compounds in the hydro-methanolic and petroleum ether extracts, respectively. Both extracts showed significant antibacterial effects against extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli strains, with inhibition diameters ranging from 10 to 13mm, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values between 0.78 and 3.5mg/mL. Anti-fungal activity was also notable, particularly against Candida albicans, with an inhibition diameter of 14mm, and MIC values between 0.39 and 1.56mg/mL. The hydro-methanolic extract showed up to 90% of growth inhibition against Aspergillus niger. These findings suggest that A. santolina could serve as a promising source of antimicrobial compounds to combat resistant pathogens.

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the influence of different extraction procedures [decoction, homogenizer-assisted extraction (HAE), infusion, maceration, Soxhlet and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE)] on the chemical profiling and biological properties of methanol and water extracts of Pulicaria dysenterica (L.) Bernh. The chemical profiles of the extracts were evaluated by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS). The antioxidant properties and enzymes (lipase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, tyrosinase and cholinesterases) inhibitory potential of the extracts were evaluated. The chemical profiles were dependent on the type of extraction methods as well as on the type of solvent. The methanolic extracts showed higher levels of total phenolic, flavonoid, and phenolic acid content, while the highest total flavonol content was observed in the HAE-water extract. Forty different compounds were identified from P. dysenterica. In relation to the potential in vitro anti-diabetic effects, the highest activity against the studied key enzymes was observed for the macerated extract (α-amylase: 0.58 ± 0.03 and α- glucosidase: 1.65 ± 0.03 mmol ACAE g-1 ). The HAE-methanol extract was the most potent inhibitor of cholisterases, whereas the highest activities against tyrosinase were observed for UAE-methanol extract, followed by macerated and Soxhlet. The inhibitory activity of the studied extracts against lipase were in the order: soxhlet > macerated> HAE-methanol > UAE-methanol. This study has established scientific baseline data on the therapeutic properties of P. dysentrica, thereby advocating the need for further investigations in an endeavour to develop novel pharmaceuticals from this plant. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

The present study was aimed to estimating the effect of Saussurea lappa (costus) root extract on thorium accumulation in different brain regions (cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and hypothalamus) of adult male albino rats and also to evaluate the antioxidant effect and thyroid gland modulation activity of costus following thorium toxicity. Adult male rats were randomly allocated into four groups; control group receiving saline (0.9% NaCl), thorium group receiving an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of thorium nitrate (Th; 6.3mg/kg bwt), costus group receiving an oral administration of costus extract at 200mg/kg bwt and costus + thorium group receiving costus 1h before thorium injection. Thorium injection in rats for 28days resulted in the accumulation of Th maximally in the cerebellum followed by the cerebral cortex and then in the hypothalamus. The accumulation of Th was associated with significant disturbance in sodium and potassium ions. A significant decrease in monoamines was also observed in different brain regions. Furthermore, the results indicated that Th-induced oxidative stress evidenced by increased lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide and decrease the glutathione content. Additionally, Th caused a significant increase in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) levels in the serum of rats. However, the pre-administration of costus alleviated all of those disturbances. Our results revealed that costus extract exerted its protective effect mainly through potentiating the antioxidant defense system.

Essential oils consist of mixtures of chemically and functionally diverse aromatic phyto-compounds. Due to their extensive chemo-diversity, these oils are used extensively in agriculture, aromatherapy, cosmetics, food, perfumery, and pharmacological industries. Although reasonable progress has been made in validating and documenting the use of medicinal plants in South Africa, little is currently known about the biological properties, chemical profiles, and safety of essential oils from aromatic medicinal plants in this country. The current review includes accounts of South African essential oils reported to have noteworthy anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-plasmodium, spasmolytic, and toxicological properties. The biological activities of some of the dominant and most common compounds found in the oils were also discussed. Traditional methods used to extract the oils, variations in the oils’ chemical compositions, factors affecting their chemistry, and various analytic tools used to assess their chemical profiles are also reported in this review.

Mezilaurus duckei, a Brazilian endemic tree species found exclusively in the Amazon Rainforest, is primarily exploited for timber in construction. Due to its endangered status, this study aimed to investigate the chemical profile and biological properties of the ethanolic extract and its phases derived from M. duckei leaves. Chemical profiling using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry revealed flavonoids, including glycosylated kaempferol and its derivatives, as well as γ-butyrolactones, as the major constituents. Additional chromatographic separations led to the isolation of kaempferol, reported for the first time in the Mezilaurus genus, and rubrenolide, identified for the first time in M. duckei. Antioxidant activity, assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method, demonstrated significant free radical scavenging properties of the ethanolic extract (half-maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50] = 1.43µg/mL) and the ethyl acetate phase (IC50 = 1.28µg/mL). Antimicrobial activity, evaluated via the microdilution method, revealed promising activity of the dichloromethane fraction against S. aureus and E. coli (minimum inhibitory concentration values of 185.5 and 375 µg/mL, respectively). Toxicity assessment using the Artemia salina lethality assay confirmed the non-toxic nature of the ethanolic extract (50% lethal dose > 1000µg/mL). These results highlight the potential of M. duckei as a source of bioactive compounds, undescoring their relevance for further applications.

The genus Inula has been used in folk medicine for centuries; however, the data concerning Inula britannica L. are scarce. This study aimed at investigating the chemical composition of methanolic and ethanolic extracts from the aerial parts of I. britannica collected in Kazakhstan and evaluating their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, with special attention being paid to polyphenols. The total content of polyphenols and flavonoids in the extracts was determined colorimetrically, while their qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted using HPLC/ESI-QTOF-MS and RP-HPLC/DAD. Their antioxidant potential was determined using the FRAP and DPPH methods, whereas their antimicrobial activity was determined by the microdilution method towards a panel of reference microorganisms, including pathogens of the human gastrointestinal tract. Chemical analysis demonstrated that the methanolic extract had a higher content of polyphenols (58.02 vs. 43.44 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (21.69 vs. 13.91 mg QUE/g) than the ethanolic extract. In both extracts, 15 compounds were identified, with the highest contents being those of cynarine (13.96 and 11.68 mg/g) and chlorogenic acid (9.22 and 5.09 mg/g). The DPPH assay showed a higher antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract (19.78 ± 0.12 mg GAE/g) in comparison to that of the ethanolic extract (15.56 ± 0.24 mg GAE/g). Similarly, the FRAP method showed that the methanolic extract exerted a much higher antioxidant activity (5.07 ± 0.18 mmol Fe2+/g) than the ethanolic extract (0.39 ± 0.01 mmol Fe2+/g). In contrast, both extracts showed similar antimicrobial properties, with the highest activity being that against Helicobacter pylori ATCC 43504 (MIC = 0.125–0.25 mg/mL). This paper presents novel data on I. britannica L., implying its significance as a source of valuable active compounds and being a prerequisite for further biological studies.