Activity Of Polyphenols Research Articles

Potential of Utilizing Corn Silk (<em>Stigma maydis</em>), Thebu Leaves (<em>Costus speciosus</em>), Green and Purple Guava (<em>Psidium guajava</em>) Leaves in Formulating Green Tea and Black Tea Blends

Purpose: Underutilized plant materials such as corn silk (Stigma maydis), guava leaves (Psidium guajava), and ‘thebu’ leaves (Costus speciosus) are rich sources of various phytochemicals with potential health benefits. This study was carried out to investigate the potential of developing green tea and black tea blends by incorporating corn silk, green and purple guava leaves, and ‘thebu’ leaves.Research Method: Five green tea and black tea blends were prepared using steamed and dried ‘thebu’ leaves, corn silk, and green and purple guava leaves. Sensory properties of the samples were evaluated. Antioxidant activity (AOA) and total polyphenol (TPP), total flavonoid (TF), ash and crude fiber contents of the samples were determined.Findings: The selected green tea blend consisted of 50% green tea, 16.7% corn silk, 16.7% ‘thebu’ leaves and 16.7% green guava leaves whereas the selected black tea blend consisted of 50% black tea, 12.5% corn silk, 12.5% ‘thebu’ leaves and 25% purple guava leaves. Comparable TPP contents (gallic acid equivalent %) were found in green tea blends (22.51±0.93) and black tea blends (21.78±0.11). Antioxidant activity (percentage inhibition) of green and black tea blends (85.93±0.44 and 87.38±1.17 respectively) were significantly higher than that of green tea (81.58±0.92) and black tea (81.43±0.88).Research Limitations: The optimal processing conditions for preserving the properties of selected materials are crucial in formulating herbal tea blends, yet they remain to be established.Originality/ Value: Corn silk, green and purple guava, and ’thebu’ leaves hold great potential for formulating tea blends with improved physicochemical, therapeutic, and sensory properties

Curcumin as a Novel Trend in Adjunctive Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis

Management of ulcerative colitis remains challenging. The search of new treatment approaches for this disease is constantly continuing. In recent years, the focus was changed to curcumin, active polyphenol found in turmeric roots, that has numerous positive effects on the human body such as anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and antioxidant features. Curcumin affects several signaling cellular pathways and gut microbiota content. This review summarizes modern data on the curcumin potential use in ulcerative colitis management.

Sodium cholate-coated Olea europaea polyphenol nanoliposomes: Preparation, stability, release, and bioactivity.

Ultra-flexible nanoliposomes (UNL) coated with sodium cholate were fabricated using the thin film hydration technique to encapsulate oleocanthal (OLEO), oleacein (OLEA), oleuropein (OLEU), and hydroxytyrosol (HT) for improving their stability and bioactivity. Their physicochemical properties were further validated through DLS, FTIR, XRD, TGA, and DSC analyses. Negative-staining TEM imaging revealed well-dispersed UNL with laminar vesicles inside. Additionally, their transdermal studies in vitro demonstrated that UNL enhanced the cumulative release of OLEO, OLEA, OLEU, and HT by 3.13, 2.76, 2.59, and 2.83 times, respectively. Furthermore, their release mechanisms were better approximated the Peppas-Sahlin model rather than the Korsmeyer-Peppas and Higuchi models, which governed by Fickian diffusion. Moreover, comparing to their compounds, UNL structure exhibited improved their antioxidant and cytotoxicity properties, highlighting their potential as effective delivery agents in humans. These results offer a novel approach for stabilizing biologically active polyphenols from Olea europaea, paving the way for enhanced human health applications.

Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiviral Activity, and Mechanisms of Action of Plant Polyphenols.

This review describes the enhanced classification of polyphenols into flavonoids, lignans, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and tannins. Its focus is the natural sources of polyphenols and an in-depth discussion of their antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity. Besides a broad literature overview, this paper contains authors' experimental data according to some daily consumed vegetables such as tomatoes, different varieties of onion, garlic, parsley, and cayenne pepper and the probable relation of these activities to polyphenols. The isolation of polyphenols via conventional and ultrasonic, pressurized liquids and pulse-field extractions, as well as their methods for detection and determination, are interpreted as well. The main mechanisms by which polyphenols inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, such as protein synthesis, cell membrane destabilization, and ROS production induction, are in focus. Data on polyphenol concentrations and their respective MIC or the inhibition zone diameters of different bacterial and fungal species and suppressing viral replication are depicted. The toxicity of polyphenols in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo towards microorganisms and human/animal cells, and the safety of the polyphenols applied in clinical and industrial applications are expanded. This review also characterizes the antimicrobial effects of some chemically synthesized polyphenol derivatives. Biotechnological advances are also reported, especially the entrapment of polyphenols in biocompatible nanoparticles to enhance their bioavailability and efficacy. Polyphenols are promising for exploring molecules' novel antimicrobial substances and paving the path for effective novel antimicrobial agents' discovery, taking into consideration their positives and negatives.

Chlorogenic acid alleviates IPEC-J2 pyroptosis induced by deoxynivalenol by inhibiting activation of the NF-κB/NLRP3/caspase-1 pathway

BackgroundDeoxynivalenol (DON) is a mycotoxin that severely pollutes feed ingredients, and methods for reducing DON toxicity have become a significant research direction. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is an active polyphenol found in some plants, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and a protective effect on animal intestinal health. The effects of CGA on DON-induced pyroptosis in the intestinal porcine epithelial cell line-J2 (IPEC-J2) and its potential mechanism were explored in this study.ResultsIPEC-J2 cells viability and membrane integrity were inversely correlated with DON concentration. Compared to those in the group treated with DON alone at 2,500 ng/mL, pretreatment with 80 μmol/L CGA for 4 h significantly improved cell viability (P < 0.01), and the alleviation of typical pyroptotic symptoms induced by DON were observed, including reduced cellular DNA fragmentation, decreased release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), normalized ROS levels, restoration of extracellular Ca2+ and K+ contents to normal levels (P < 0.01 ), as well as suppressed the enzyme activities of caspase-1 and caspase-4 (P < 0.01). Additionally, the mRNA expression levels of TNF, MDP, NOD2, TLR4, ASC and GSDMD were significantly improved (P < 0.01), while both mRNA and protein expression levels of NF-κB, NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-18 were significantly upregulated (P < 0.01) in the CGA + DON group, compare to those in the DON group.ConclusionPretreatment with 80 μmol/L CGA for 4 h effectively alleviated pyroptosis in IPEC-J2 cells induced by 2,500 ng/mL of DON through inhibiting activation of the NF-κB/ NLRP3/capase-1 pathway.

Phytochemical composition and antioxidant properties of unripe apples

The aim of this study was to determine the physicochemical indicators and antioxidant activity from the unripe apples obtained after the agricultural thinning operation. Apples of the Coredana, Golden Rezistent, Reglindis and Rewena varieties harvested in 2020 were studied. Physicochemical indicators were analysed. The quantitative and qualitative determination of organic acids was carried out by the HPLC method, and of carbohydrates by capillary electrophoresis. Determination of antioxidant activity and total polyphenols content was evaluated by spectrophotometric methods. The highest amount of organic acids was obtained in the 45th days after full bloom (DAFB) of harvest, the predominant being malic acid with a value between 15.09±0.02 and 21.64±0.01 g/100g dry weight (DW). Sugars had the highest value in 97th DAFB, fructose being the main one (67.79±0.11 – 75.73±0.10 g/L). Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity showed maximum values at the beginning of fruit harvesting, having 916.67±0.17 – 1316.13±0.21 mg GAE/100g DW and ascorbic acid equivalent antioxidant capacity of 16.94±0.12 – 23.51±0.2 mg AAE/100g DW, respectively. It was concluded that thinned unripe apples represent a natural source of organic acids and carbohydrates, significant amounts of phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties. The study provides information on unripe apples that can be processed and optimally used for food purposes.

Antioxidant content following fermentation of lemongrass for herbal beverage development.

Consumers have increasingly favoured fermented drinks due to their high content of probiotic secondary metabolites. These beverages are believed to possess the capacity to safeguard against non-communicable ailments such as coronary heart disease, cancer, diabetes, antimicrobial infections, and other dietary-related disorders. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a commonly used botanical ingredient in therapeutic tea production. It is renowned for its highly valuable essential oil, which has significant commercial demand. This study examines the functional content and antioxidant effects of fermented beverages derived from lemongrass. We employed the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to carry out the fermentation process on the lemongrass compositions, extending the duration from t = 24 to t = 96h. We used non-fermented samples as control. This investigation identified numerous active biomolecules and polyphenols in the fermented samples, including flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, coumarins, terpenoids, steroids, saponins, and reducing sugars. After t = 24h fermentation, the radical-scavenging activity reached its maximum level of 89.1%, and the antioxidant content reached 13.06µg/ml, which is equivalent to the amount of ascorbic acid. After t = 36h fermentation, the total phenolic content reached a concentration of 237.19µg/ml, while the flavonoid content reached its peak at 55.21µg/ml after t = 72h fermentation. Lemongrass fermentation exhibits a wide range of phytochemicals and bioactive components that effectively eliminate free radicals, despite the antioxidant content fluctuation throughout the fermentation period of t = 24 to t = 96h.

Enzymatic browning in fresh extra virgin olive oil (EVOO): Detection of polyphenol oxidase, assessing moisture impact, and revealing the anti-browning capacity of EVOO.

This study investigates the presence of active olive polyphenol oxidase (OePPO) in freshly extracted extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and its role in triggering enzymatic browning during EVOO storage. OePPO's presence in EVOO was validated through its distinct molecular weights observed in SDS-PAGE gels. The generation of quinones in EVOO was tracked spectrophotometrically over a storage period of one month, revealing browning reactions, particularly in the early days of storage, followed by a decline concurrent with water sedimentation. Introducing various water percentages into EVOO revealed the critical and proportional impact of moisture content on enzymatic browning. Microscopic examination showed the formation of colloidal matter around water microdroplets suspected to accommodate browning reactions. The reduction of EVOO moisture content to < 0.15% coincided with a progressive decrease in browning across all samples, hinting at a potential anti-browning capacity of EVOO. A novel analytical method is proposed to evaluate EVOO's anti-browning capacity, utilizing chemically oxidized 4-tert-butylcatechol (TBC) quinones. After one month of storage, a significant decrease in total phenols and antioxidant activity proportional to the moisture content and enzymatic browning was noted in EVOO samples. To prevent such losses, the EVOO extraction process should effectively minimize moisture content to less than 0.15%.

Investigation on nutritional compounds and toxic elements in dietary supplements from young green barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

BackgroundYoung green barley is rich in nutrients and bioactive substances and hence is used for dietary supplement production. However, polluted environment and the use of pesticides can lead to the contamination of raw plant material. Purpose of the study1) determination of the young barley ingredients considered beneficial to the body (antioxidant activity, total polyphenols, phenolic acids, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese, zinc); 2) assessment of the potential risk to human health posed by contaminants (pesticides, polycyclic aromatic compounds (PAHs), arsenic, cadmium, mercury, lead). Materialsdietary supplements containing green barley in a form of tablets, powders and juices. MethodsUltraviolet-visible (UV–Vis) spectrometry (determination of antioxidant activity and total polyphenols), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS; used for element determination), liquid chromatography (phenolic acids, some pesticide analysis); gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS; pesticide and PAH determination). Main findingsthe young barley powders were rich in macro- and microelements, particularly Fe and Mn, and could meet up to 20 % of the human requirements. However, they were also considerably contaminated with heavy metals and imidacloprid. The maximum levels established in European Union for examined substances were exceeded in the case of imidacloprid (6 samples of barley powders: P1, P2, P7-P10), PAH4 sum (one sample of barley powder - P10), and mercury (2 samples of barley powders: P6 and P12, 3 samples of tablets – T1, T2, T14). Calculated risk assessment also indicated that regular consumption of these dietary supplements could pose a significant health risk in case of arsenic. Conclusionsthe research suggests that although young barley powders exhibit a substantial amount of macro and microelements, and additional bioactive ingredients they may also be a potential source of some harmful substances such as heavy metals or pesticide residues.

The Potential Role of Dietary Polyphenols in the Prevention and Treatment of Acute Leukemia.

Acute leukemia is a prevalent cancer worldwide and is classified into two distinct forms. Currently, various therapies have been developed for this disease; however, the issues of recurrence, resistance to treatment, and adverse effects require the exploration of novel treatments. Polyphenols, classified into four categories, are secondary metabolites originating from plants that demonstrate diverse metabolic features such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Consequently, they have attracted attention for therapeutic and preventive measures. Research indicates that dietary polyphenols can mitigate the disease burden of acute leukemias by influencing the molecular pathways associated with the disease and its inflammatory processes. Furthermore, owing to their antioxidant properties, they can reduce the amounts of reactive oxygen species generated from the disrupted molecular pathways in these malignancies. The therapeutic actions of polyphenols can facilitate disease recovery by interrupting the cell cycle and causing apoptosis by activating pro-apoptotic genes. In conclusion, the intake of dietary polyphenols, due to their convenience and availability, coupled with the positive outcomes associated with their use in conjunction with conventional therapies, may function as an efficient therapeutic and preventive measure for acute leukemia.

Optimization of aloe vera‐sodium alginate composite coating using L16 orthogonal design for extension of shelf life of mushroom

AbstractWhite button mushrooms are highly nutritive, rich in various macro and micro nutrients, however, have a short shelf life with weight loss (WL), enzymatic browning, and loss in firmness as the major quality defects. The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of aloe vera‐sodium alginate (AV‐SA) composite coating on the quality attributes of mushroom. The development of coating formulations containing 2% sodium alginate along with varying concentration of aloe vera gel 20%–80% and storage time 4–16 days was planned using a 2‐factor 4‐level orthogonal array (L16) design of Taguchi technique. The influence of both the process parameters on the WL, total soluble solids (TSS), respiration rate (RR), browning index (BI), firmness, electrolyte leakage rate (EL), malondialdehyde (MDA), ascorbic acid (AA), total phenolic content (TPC), enzymes activity (polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase), and yeast and mold count (YMC) were evaluated and the optimized level of parameters was determined on the basis of the highest S/N ratios of the responses. The results indicated that 60% AV‐SA composite coating could extend the shelf life of white button mushrooms for up to 8 days with retarded loss in weight, firmness, AA, and TPC and reduced increase in TSS, BI, EL, MDA with controlled enzymatic activity, RR, and YMC.

Edible ultrasmall polyphenolic nanozymes for oral treatment of alcohol-induced acute gastritis

Excessive alcohol consumption and prolonged administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) lead to gastritis which affects millions globally, yet safe and effective treatment options remain limited. While a range of nanozymes have been employed in the oral treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the research directed toward gastritis therapy remains unexplored. The challenges of rapid gastric emptying, harsh gastric acid erosion, and the non-edible ingredient constitution hinder the practical use of nanozymes in this context. Herein, three types of sub-10 nm ultrasmall iron-polyphenol nanozymes (UIPNs) were synthesized by using fully edible natural active polyphenols, iron ions and PVP. UIPNs rapidly penetrated the gastric mucosa, resided in the stomach for over 12 h, and remained stable in the harsh acidic environment. They exhibited excellent enzyme-like activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Compared to omeprazole, all three types of UIPNs showed superior activity, with Fis UIPNs demonstrating the best performance in preventing and protecting against alcohol-induced gastric mucosal injury in mice. The fully food-sourced components, constructed into ultrasmall nanozymes via non-covalent interactions, ensure long-term safety and hold promise for playing significant roles in various gastrointestinal diseases.

The Optimisation of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction for the Polyphenols Content and Antioxidant Activity on Sanguisorba officinalis L. Aerial Parts Using Response Surface Methodology

The aim of this study was to optimise ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of the herb Sanguisorba officinalis L. in terms of the antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP method) and total polyphenol content (TPC). Optimisation was performed using the response surface methodology (RSM) with a third-degree (33) Central Composite Design (CCD) approach. The RSM was applied to obtain the optimal combination of (1) raw material content (2.25–7.5 g raw material/100 mL of solvent), (2) ethanol concentration (20–60% v/v), and (3) extraction time (1–15 min). The optimal conditions for the extraction of polyphenols and antioxidant potential were a raw material content of 7.5 g/100 mL of solvent (solid/solvent ratio 13.3 mL/g), an ethanol concentration of 47% v/v, and an extraction time of 10 min. At these optimal extraction parameters, the maximum extraction of polyphenols and antioxidant activity obtained experimentally was found to be very close to its predicted value and was 12.9 mmol Trolox/L (DPPH method), 19.4 mmol FeSO4/L (FRAP method), and 2.1 g GA/L (TPC). The mathematical model developed was found to fit with the experimental data on the antioxidant potential and polyphenol extraction. The n-octanol/water partition coefficient of the optimised extract was used to determine their lipophilicity. Our studies have shown that the optimised extract is highly hydrophilic (log P &lt; 0). Optimal parameters can be used for the industrial extraction of the S. officinalis herb for the needs of, among others, the pharmaceutical or cosmetic industry.

Anti-Inflammatory and Neuroprotective Polyphenols Derived from the European Olive Tree, Olea europaea L., in Long COVID and Other Conditions Involving Cognitive Impairment

The European olive tree, Olea europaea L., and its polyphenols hold great therapeutic potential to treat neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment. This review examines the evidence for the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective actions of olive polyphenols and their potential in the treatment of long COVID and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). Key findings suggest that olive polyphenols exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antiviral properties, making them promising candidates for therapeutic intervention, especially when formulated in unique combinations. Recommendations for future research directions include elucidating molecular pathways through mechanistic studies, exploring the therapeutic implications of olive polyphenol supplementation, and conducting clinical trials to assess efficacy and safety. Investigating potential synergistic effects with other agents addressing different targets is suggested for further exploration. The evidence reviewed strengthens the translational value of olive polyphenols in conditions involving cognitive dysfunction and emphasizes the novelty of new formulations.

IMPROVEMENT OF TRADITIONAL BALINESE "ONG" TEA-MAKING PROCESS TO EXTEND SHELF LIFE TO SUPPORT ECOTOURISM IN BANJAR LANTANGIDUNG, GIANYAR, BALI

“Ong” tea contains vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, and vitamin C, in addition to several essential amino acids, organic acids, minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and active polyphenol compounds, and various important enzymes that have many benefits for the body. “Ong” tea is a type of probiotic drink produced from the tea fermentation process. The bacteria contained in SCOBY (Symbiotic Consortium of Bacteria and Yeast) are Acetobacter xylinum bacteria. The purpose of implementing the activities proposed in the training to improve the process of making “Ong” tea through PKM activities is to ensure that the people of Br. Lantangidung, Batuan, Sukawati have the skills and insight to manage local natural resources and have an entrepreneurial spirit so that they can open up business opportunities related to the conditions of the Batuan Village area. Improving product quality, expanding marketing reach, and using more hygienic and modern packaging techniques are also important. Thus, it is hoped that Balinese “ong” tea can become a superior product that can improve the community's economy and support the development of ecotourism in Banjar Lantangidung

New Trichoderma Strains Suppress Blue Mold in Oranges by Damaging the Cell Membrane of Penicillium italicum and Enhancing Both Enzymatic and Non-Enzymatic Defense Mechanisms in Orange Fruits

Blue mold disease, caused by Penicillium italicum (P. italicum), presents a significant challenge to orange fruits (Citrus sinensis L.) and other citrus crops globally. Biological control, particularly Trichoderma species, offers a promising alternative to synthetic fungicides. Therefore, this study aimed to isolate, identify, and evaluate the antagonistic activities of two Trichoderma isolates against P. italicum. These isolates were molecularly identified and assigned accession numbers PP002254 and PP002272, respectively. Both isolates demonstrated significant antifungal activity in dual culture assays. Moreover, the culture filtrates (CFs) of Trichoderma longibrachiatum PP002254 and Trichoderma harzianum PP002272 suppressed the mycelial growth of P. italicum by 77.22% and 71.66%, respectively. Additionally, CFs reduced the severity of blue mold on orange fruits by 26.85% and 53.81%, compared to 100% in the control group. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that treated P. italicum hyphae were shrunken and disfigured. Enzyme activities (catalase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase) in treated oranges increased, along with total soluble phenolics and flavonoids. Conversely, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels decreased in treated fruits. These findings suggest that T. longibrachiatum PP002254 and T. harzianum PP002272 could be effective biocontrol agents for managing blue mold and other citrus postharvest diseases.

An efficient protocol for the extraction of pigment-free active polyphenol oxidase and soluble proteins from plant cells.

The elimination of brownish pigments from plant protein extracts has been a challenge in plant biochemistry studies. Although numerous approaches have been developed to reduce pigments for enzyme assays, none has been able to completely remove pigments from plant protein extracts for biochemical studies. A simple and effective protocol was developed to completely remove pigments from plant protein extracts. Proteins were extracted from red anthocyanin-rich transgenic and greenish wild-type tobacco cells cultured on agar-solidified Murashige and Skoog medium. Protein extracts from these cells were brownish or dark due to the pigments. Four approaches were comparatively tested to show that the diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-Sephadex anion exchange gel column was effective in completely removing pigments to obtain transparent pigment-free protein extracts. A Millipore Amicon® Ultra 10K cut-off filter unit was used to effectively desalt proteins. Moreover, the removal of pigments significantly improved the measurement accuracy of total soluble proteins. Furthermore, enzymatic assays using catechol as a substrate coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography analysis demonstrated that the pigment-free proteins not only showed polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity but also enhanced the catalytic activity of PPO. Taken together, this protocol is effective for extracting pigment-free plant proteins for plant biochemistry studies. A simple and effective protocol was successfully developed to not only completely and effectively remove anthocyanin and polyphenolics-derived quinone pigments from plant protein extracts but also to decrease the effects of pigments on the measurement accuracy of total soluble proteins. This robust protocol will enhance plant biochemical studies using pigment-free native proteins, which in turn increase their reliability and sensitivity.

Mitigating type 2 diabetes: Scientific validation of Biophytum sensitivum (L.) DC. and Mimosa pudica L. as substitutes for Cassia mimosoides L. in ayurvedic medicine

The Ayurvedic concept of 'pratinidhi dravya' (substitute drugs) offers a systematic approach to replaces scarce ingredients in traditional formulations with botanically or pharmacologically similar alternatives. This practice aims to maintain therapeutic efficacy and safety while preventing adulteration. However, scientific validation of these substitutes is essential. This study investigates the substitution of the rare species Cassia mimosoides L. (CM) with two more readily available species recommended in Ayurveda: Biophytum sensitivum (L.) DC. (BS) and Mimosa pudica L. (MP). The research focuses on their potential use in the popular antidiabetic Ayurvedic medicine Katakakhadiradi Kashayam, specifically examining their antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. Our findings revealed that the substituted species, BS and MP, exhibit a remarkable richness in phenolic and flavonoid content compared to the species CM, indicating their potent antioxidant capabilities (IC50 values: CM: 19.55 μg/ml, BS: 60.38 μg/ml, MP: 39.49 μg/ml). LC-MS/MS profiling and quantification indicate a significant amount of different pharmacologically active polyphenols in the three species. Among the identified compounds, orientin (CM-EA: 44.362 mg/kg, BS-EA: 20.528 mg/kg, MP-EA: 34.094 mg/kg) and isoorientin (CM-EA: 85.022 mg/kg, BS-EA: 25.168 mg/kg, MP-EA: 45.035 mg/kg) were the major compounds present in substantial quantity in all three species. Additionally, shikimic acid and chlorogenic acid were present in higher concentrations in the BS-EA and MP-EA extracts. Furthermore, these species demonstrated significant activity against α-glucosidase in various solvent extracts, with IC50 values of 16.44 μg/ml for CM, 56.65 μg/ml for MP, and 69.25 μg/ml for BS, suggesting their promising role in managing diabetes mellitus. These findings support the efficacy of BS and MP as substitutes for CM in managing diabetes and oxidative stress, emphasizing the importance of scientific validation in herbal medicine substitution and adulteration prevention.

Determination and identification of polyphenols in wine using mass spectrometry techniques

Mass spectrometry is crucial for analysing physicochemical and sensory properties, including colour, astringency, taste, and flavour, predicting ageing characteristics, and addressing stability issues in wine. Polyphenols are key chemical constituents in wine that are associated with health benefits and improve circulatory conditions. Advances in mass spectrometry ionisation techniques such as matrix-assisted laser desorption and ionisation and direct analysis in real-time offer high sensitivity for identifying important polyphenolic constituents in wine. High-resolution mass spectrometry, in combination with liquid chromatography, accurately identify and quantify polyphenolic compounds, even at low concentrations, and provides the possibility for further retrospective analysis and non-targeted analysis using statistical methods of data analysis. Ambient mass spectrometry techniques such as paper spray and low-temperature plasma allow solventless analysis, determining the geographical origin, authentication, and quality control of wine samples. This review will explore the potential benefits of using mass spectrometry to identify various polyphenols and polymeric polyphenols in wine, as well as recent developments and applications. Additionally, we will discuss determining antioxidant activity and total polyphenol content in wine.

Novel neuropharmacological activity of citrus lime (Citrus aurantifolia): A standardized lime peel supplement enhances non-rapid eye movement sleep by activating the GABA type A receptor

Polyphenols have been well-established to exert sedative-hypnotic effects in psychopharmacology. Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) peel is rich in biologically active polyphenols; however, the effects of lime peel extract on sleep have not yet been demonstrated. A comparison was conducted in mice, between the sleep-promoting effects of a standardized lime peel supplement (SLPS) and a well-known hypnotic drug, zolpidem, and its hypnotic mechanism was investigated using in vivo and in vitro assays. The effects of SLPS on sleep were assessed using a pentobarbital-induced sleep test and sleep architecture analysis based on recording electroencephalograms and electromyograms. Additionally, a GABAA receptor binding assay, electrophysiological measurements, and in vivo animal models were used to elucidate the hypnotic mechanism. SLPS (200 and 400 mg/kg) was found to significantly decrease sleep latency and increase the amount of non-rapid eye movement sleep without altering delta activity. The hypnotic effects of SLPS were attributed to its flavonoid-rich ethyl acetate fraction. SLPS had a binding affinity to the GABA-binding site of the GABAA receptor and directly activated the GABAA receptors. The hypnotic effects and GABAA receptor activity of SLPS were completely blocked by bicuculline, a competitive antagonist of the GABAA receptor, in both in vitro and in vivo assays. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate the hypnotic effects of SLPS, which acts via the GABA-binding site of the GABAA receptor. Our results suggest that lime peel, a by-product abundantly generated during juice processing, can potentially be used as a novel sedative-hypnotic.