Antioxidant Activity Research Articles

Exploring the potential of bioactive compounds of Capparis spinosa L. from Morocco: Unveiling its antioxidant and antifungal powers against Alternaria alternata

Capparis spinosa L. is a Mediterranean shrub and one of the most important species of the gender Capparis due to its ecological, medicinal and economic importance. This species has strong adaptation characteristics to regions with fluctuating climates. This work aims to evaluate the effect of the locality’s climate and plant’s parts on the content of polyphenols, flavonoids and antioxidant and antifungal activities of caper leaves and seeds. The present study was carried out in 7 localities in 2 Moroccan regions, Oriental and Fez-Meknes, where we collected leaves and seeds samples. Phenolic compounds were determined by the Folin Ciocalteu method, antioxidant activity was studied by DPPH and ABTS tests and an in vitro test of antifungal activity was achieved using Alternaria alternata. The analysis of variance showed no significant effect of locality, plant’s parts and their interaction on the phenolic compounds, antioxidant and antifungal activities of C. spinosa. Methanolic leaves extracts demonstrated the most favorable outcomes, yielding a maximum polyphenol content of 124.48 ± 0.05 mg EAG/g DW. Additionally, the maximum flavonoid content was recorded at 24.51 ± 0.01 mg EQ/g DW. The evaluation of the antioxidant activity showed that the minimum inhibitory concentration at 50 % (IC50) is 2.06 ± 0.05 mg/mL and 2.05 ± 0.02 mg/mL using DPPH and ABTS tests respectively. These extracts exhibited the highest % of inhibition, 30.59 % at 1000 ppm against A. alternata. The richness of the caper plant in bioactive compounds reveals an interest in its therapeutic and pharmaceutical virtues. In addition, it could be an alternative to chemicals for the control of phytopathogenic fungi on fruits or vegetables.

Phytochemical composition, antioxidant activities and anti‐obesity potential of selected vegetables as affected by drying methods

AbstractObesity has reached epidemic statistics worldwide and there is an urgent need to explore more available options in addressing the condition. The potential of vegetables as natural sources of enzyme inhibitors that can regulate the progression of obesity is of great interest particularly due to possible synergistic antioxidant activities. In this study, we evaluated the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activities, and in vitro enzyme inhibition properties of selected vegetables as influenced by sun and cabinet drying methods. While a significant increase was observed in the phytochemical composition of most of the vegetables, the two drying methods had varying effects on all parameters. Cabinet drying yielded higher saponin (2.86–4.67 mg/100 g), phenolics (19.30–57.02 mg/100 g), and alkaloids (31.58–37.61 mg/100 g) contents while sun drying gave better results for flavonoids (88.13–234.15 mg/100 g). The DPPH (11.45%–29.61%) and ABTS (22.70%–35.48%) antioxidant activities varied significantly. Cabinet‐dried cabbage and sun dried carrot flours displayed the highest inhibition against alpha amylase and pancreatic lipase, respectively. A strong positive correlation was observed between phenolics and amylase inhibition and also between saponin and pancreatic lipase inhibition. Consequently, vegetable flours could serve as versatile products for the therapeutic management of obesity and related diseases.

Characterization of dark chocolates based on polyphenolic profiles and antioxidant activity.

Dark chocolates were characterized according to geographical origin, cocoa variety, and cocoa content using the methylxanthine and polyphenolic composition and antioxidant activity as the data. The main study objective was to uncover sample patterns and identify possible markers of quality, variety, or origin to deal with authentication or fraud detection issues. In the study, a set of 26 dark chocolates from different varieties (e.g., Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario) harvested in Africa, America, and Asia was analyzed. The optimized sample treatment consisted of defatting the chocolate (1g of sample with 5mL of cyclohexane for 15min, three times) and then extracting the analytes by sonication with methanol/water 60:40 (v:v) for 15min. The filtered extracts were analyzed by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with UV and spectrophotometric methods (Folin-Ciocalteu, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and aluminum methods) to determine individual phenolics and overall indexes of antioxidant and flavonoid content. Results from this chocolate set indicated that American samples are richer than African counterparts in alkaloids and phenolics (e.g., 1.7 vs. 1.1mgg-1 caffeine and 14.5 vs. 12.5mgg-1 total flavanols, respectively). Regarding cocoa varieties, Criollo cocoa was richer in bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity (e.g., 16, 15, and 12mgg-1 total flavanols for Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario, respectively). These results indicate that the analytes resulted in potential descriptors of varietal or geographical attributes.

Optimizing Probiotic Low‐Fat Yogurt: The Benefits of Incorporating Defatted Rice Bran for Enhanced Quality and Functionality

ABSTRACTThis study investigated the effects of incorporating defatted rice bran (DRB) at different concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%) on the quality, microbiological, and sensory characteristics of probiotic low‐fat yogurt (LFY) during a 21‐day storage period at 4°C. DRB is rich in dietary fiber, essential amino acids, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, and its addition aimed to enhance the nutritional and functional properties of LFY. LFY samples were evaluated for proximate composition, hardness, viscosity, syneresis, color characteristics, rheology, and sensory evaluation. Also, microbiological analysis includes total bacterial counts (TBC), Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum counts. Results indicated that DRB addition significantly (p < 0.05) increased probiotic counts, especially at 1% and 1.5% concentrations, with these samples maintaining higher bacterial stability over the storage period. DRB‐added LFY also showed improved nutritional profiles, with increased TS, protein, ash, fiber, and antioxidant activity. Additionally, hardness, viscosity, and rheology (G′ and G″) values significantly (p < 0.05) increased with the addition of DRB, while syneresis significantly (p < 0.05) decreased. However, higher DRB concentrations negatively affected the color, with lightness decreasing and the browning index increasing. This also impacted sensory characteristics, resulting in lower scores for color, flavor, and overall acceptability, particularly in LFY with 2% DRB. To conclude, moderate DRB addition (up to 1.5%) optimally balances the enhancement of probiotic and nutritional properties with acceptable sensory quality offering a viable strategy for producing functional low‐fat yogurt.

Impact of green techniques on intricate cell wall structure of bee pollen to enhance functional characteristics and improve its in vitro digestibility.

Bee pollen is a nutrient-rich super food, but its rigid dual-layered structure limits nutrient release and absorption. The outer exine, composed of stress-resistant sporopollenin, and the inner intine, consisting of cellulose and pectin, form a barrier to digestive breakdown. This study investigates the potential of green techniques, specifically supercritical fluid extraction and ultrasonication, to disaggregate pollen cell walls, enhancing its bioavailability and maximizing nutrient utilization. Ultrasonication treated pollen (USTP) and supercritical fluid extraction-treated pollen (STP) demonstrated disruption, as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy imaging. In relation to scanning electron microscopy, techno-functional, antioxidant, and compositional analysis displayed a positive outcome, with crude lipid, protein, antioxidant activity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl activity and 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid assay) and total phenolic content increased by 34.80%, 32.58%, 10.80%, 11.37%, and 83.94%, respectively. Based on the above properties, USTP for 4 h and STP at 400 bar for 40 min were identified as the optimal conditions for disintegration. Furthermore, optimized samples analyzed for amino acid and mineral release revealed a notable increase in composition of essential amino acid and minerals (Ca, Cu, Fe, etc.) by ∼1.5 and 1.2 times, respectively. Along with significant changes in composition, fractured pollen exhibited 1.4 folds increase in protein digestibility with minor differences in thermal stability, and crystallinity as established by differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction analysis. The study confirms that nutrient release and absorption remain restricted without pre-treatment, highlighting the necessity of specific treatment to disintegrate bee pollen before its use as a functional food ingredient. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Bee pollen is a rich source of all the essential nutrients required by the humans and recognised as a complete food. However, its tough cellular structure restricts its utilisation in numerous food applications. Therefore, to disintegrate bee pollen and release its nutrients, ultrasonication and super critical fluid extraction processes were employed to improve its utilization for human purposes. Both the treatment techniques, enhanced bee pollen's bioavailability and functional properties, making it more suitable for use in nutraceuticals and functional foods.These treatments proved to increase the antioxidant capacity, digestibility, and create high-value ingredient for supplements, beverages, and fortified foods.

Physicochemical Characteristics and Antioxidant Activity of Murici Pulps (Byrsonima spp., Malpighiaceae) Sold in the Municipality of Santarém-PA, Brazil

Introduction: Murici is valued by the local population for its healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which are attributed to its phenolic compounds and ca-rotenoids, although its quality and properties are not well-known. Objective: This research aimed to evaluate the quality of murici pulp (Byrsonima spp.) commercialized in some places of Santarém, Pará, Brazil. Methods: Murici pulp samples were collected in Santarém and Curuá, PA, between October 2022 and January 2023. The samples were packed in plastic containers and stored in a refriger-ated laboratory. Physicochemical analyses included pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, ash content, moisture, phenolic compounds, proteins, and sugars, following standard methods. Antioxidant activity was measured using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Results: Murici pulp pH ranged from 3.2 to 3.6, all within legal limits, indicating higher acidity suitable for consumption. Titratable acidity ranged from 15.89 to 63.57 meq kg⁻¹, meeting regu-latory standards. Ash content varied from 0.15% to 0.86%, moisture from 75.11% to 83.58%, and phenolic compounds from 2.73 to 3.64 mg GA g⁻¹. Significant statistical differences were observed in all analyses, highlighting the nutritional and antioxidant potential of the pulp. Conclusion: Murici pulp samples showed low sugar and starch concentrations but high total acidity and antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP). pH levels met legal standards, with significant variations due to ripeness and environmental factors. The study underscores murici's health benefits and quality variations influenced by environmental conditions and processing factors. conclusion: There were high values for antioxidant activity, all samples presented a pH value above the minimum value established by the equivalent legislation. In relation to soluble solids, only four samples obtained relatively low results, sugar analyzes demonstrated reduced values.

EFFECT OF PARTIALLY REPLACING SOYBEAN MEAL AND SOYBEAN OIL WITH DEHULLED SUNFLOWER SEEDS ON MEAT QUALITY AND OXIDATIVE STABILITY OF BROILERS

Broiler chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus L.) production in Mexico is fundamental for contributing to food security since it is inexpensive and has a high nutritional value. However, given the insufficient national production of ingredients such as soybeans to obtain oil and make balanced foods, it has been necessary to import them, thus increasing the cost of raising broilers. In this context, sunflower seed (Helianthus annuus L.), due to its nutritional makeup, can be used to replace soybean meal and soybean oil in broiler diets. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of partially replacing soybean meal and soybean oil in broilers’ diets with dehulled sunflower seeds on the physicochemical properties, fatty acid profile, and antioxidant capacity of meat. The experimental design was completely randomized: basal diet (sorghum-soybean meal); diet with 5 % sunflower seed and soybean oil; diet with 5 % sunflower seeds without soybean oil; and diet with 10 % sunflower seeds without soybean oil. There was no effect of the diet on the physicochemical characteristics (p > 0.05), but there was an effect on the fatty acid profile, which was better (p ≤ 0.001) in the treatments with sunflower seed, with or without soybean oil. The antioxidant activity in raw and cooked meat decreased after 9 and 6 days of refrigerated storage (p ≤ 0.05), respectively, without diet effect. Therefore, soybean meal can be substituted at 10 %, and soybean oil can be partially or completely replaced by dehulled sunflower seed in broiler diets as long as production parameters are not negatively affected.

Thermal-Induced Alterations in Phenolic and Volatile Profiles of Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oils

In the present study, the influence of heating on the evolution of oxidative indices, antioxidant activity, phenolic and volatile compounds in monovarietal extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs) obtained from Leccino, Istarska bjelica, and Buža cultivars was investigated. The samples were submitted to heating in an air oven (180 °C and 220 °C), simulating usual roasting conditions typical for Mediterranean cuisine. The decreases in the oxidative indicators, phenolic and volatile compounds were more pronounced at higher heating temperatures, underlining the temperature dependency of the oxidative degradation during heating conditions. Despite this, it must be emphasized that a significant amount of phenolic compounds and antioxidative activity remained preserved after the heating treatment. Each oil cultivar showed some specificity during the course of the thermal degradation. Hydroxytyrosol acetate among phenolic compounds and octanal, (E)-2-octenal, hexanal, 3-pentanone, and 1-penten-3-one among the volatiles were underlined as possible markers of thermal oxidation. Principal component analysis revealed that the content of volatile compounds in monovarietal EVOO samples distinguished samples primarily by the heating temperature, while the changes in the phenolic compounds were cultivar-dependent aside from being influenced by the temperature of heating.

Glycation of sunnhemp protein with dextran via dry heating: Thermal, micro-structural characterization, and amino acid profiling.

This study aims to obtain sunnhemp protein isolate (SHPI) and dextran conjugates by dry heating method of Maillard conjugation. The effects of different incubation time (0, 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 days) on the molecular flexibility, available lysine content, antioxidant properties, molecular structure, and thermal and micro-structural properties of conjugates were compared with SHPI (no conjugation) at 60°C and 79% relative humidity. The results indicated the formation of SHPI-dextran conjugates as confirmed by the change in molecular flexibility, lysine content, antioxidant activities, color, and water activity values. The molecular structure revealed the confirmation of covalent bonding between SHPI and dextran. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermo-gravimetric analysis results exhibited improvement in the thermal stability of SHPI when conjugated with dextran. The microstructural characterization showed that Maillard conjugation changed the surface structure of SHPI. The analysis of amino acid composition displayed that lysine, arginine, and phenylalanine were the dominant Maillard reaction sites of SHPI and dextran. Among all the conjugated samples, 5 days of incubation time was selected as an optimum condition for the development of SHPI-dextran conjugates on the basis of the aforementioned characterization. Overall, it was concluded that Maillard conjugation of sunnhemp protein with dextran via dry-heating technique could modify and improve its various attributes. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The conjugation of plant proteins with polysaccharide through the Maillard reaction under dry heating conditions represents a natural and green technique for improving the techno-functional properties of proteins. The study has the potential to establish framework for the utilization of Sunnhemp protein isolate-dextran conjugates. This approach offers the potential for cost-effective production of emulsifiers and development of effective encapsulating matrices. The investigation expands on an underutilized plant protein source facilitating an alternative to animal-based proteins and contributing to the development of a sustainable circular bioeconomy.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles cooperate with the phyllosphere to promote grain yield and nutritional quality of rice under heatwave stress

To address rising global food demand, the development of sustainable technologies to increase productivity is urgently needed. This study revealed that foliar application of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs; 30 to 80 nm, 0.67 mg/d per plant, 6 d) to rice leaves under heatwave (HW) stress increased the grain yield and nutritional quality. Compared with the HW control, the HWs+ZnO group presented increases in the grain yield, grain protein content, and amino acid content of 22.1%, 11.8%, and 77.5%, respectively. Nanoscale ZnO aggregated on the leaf surface and interacted with leaf surface molecules. Compared with that at ambient temperature, HW treatment increased the dissolution of ZnO NPs on the leaf surface by 25.9% and facilitated their translocation to mesophyll cells. The Zn in the leaves existed as both ionic Zn and particulate ZnO. Compared with the HW control, foliar application of ZnO NPs under HW conditions increased leaf nutrient levels (Zn, Mn, Cu, Fe, and Mg) by 15.8 to 416.9%, the chlorophyll content by 22.2 to 24.8%, Rubisco enzyme activity by 21.2%, and antioxidant activity by 26.7 to 31.2%. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that ZnO NPs reversed HW-induced transcriptomic dysregulation, thereby enhancing leaf photosynthesis by 74.4%. Additionally, ZnO NPs increased the diversity, stability, and enrichment of beneficial microbial taxa and protected the phyllosphere microbial community from HW damage. This work elucidates how NPs interact with the phyllosphere, highlighting the potential of NPs to promote sustainable agriculture, especially under extreme climate events (e.g., HWs).

Investigation of Algerian Crataegus monogyna Jacq Phenolic Compounds (Using LC-ESI-MS/MS Analysis, Antioxidant Activity, and Enzyme Inhibition) and Their Potential Implications for Food and Nutraceutical Applications

Investigations into the phenolic constituents of the butanolic fraction of Crataegus monogyna were optimized using LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis, identifying and quantifying at least 23 fingerprint phytochemical compounds. The major phenolic compounds were epicatechin (99.916 ± 2.208 mg/g), isoquercetrin (53.31 ± 1.172 mg/g), chlorogenic acid (47.457 ± 1.010 mg/g), quinic acid (37.819 ± 1.406 mg/g), rutin (29.98 ± 0.740 mg/g), hesperidin (5.296 ± 0.177 mg/g, detected for the first time in the C. monogyna species), astragalin (1.774 ± 0.020 mg/g), and nicotiflorin (1.482 ± 0.016 mg/g). The antioxidant properties of the lyophilized butanolic fraction were evaluated using DPPH, GOR, ABTS, CUPRAC, and reducing power assays, all of which demonstrated that there was strong activity. Additionally, the neuroprotective effect was evaluated in vitro, showing a potent inhibitory effect on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) with an IC50 of 43.65 ± 2.10 µg/mL. The antidiabetic effect was investigated through α-amylase inhibition (IC50 = 91.19 ± 0.10 µg/mL), showing high inhibitory activity. In addition, the butanolic extract exhibited significant urease inhibition with an IC50 of 26.36 ± 0.05 µg/mL. These results suggest that Algerian C. monogyna has potential as a therapeutic agent for managing diabetes complications and as a natural source of AChE inhibitors, making it a promising subject for the treatment of urease-related conditions. Its high concentrations of natural antioxidants, such as epicatechin, isoquercetrin, chlorogenic acid, quinic acid, rutin, hesperidin, and astragalin, make it suitable for integration into medicine, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and the food sector.

Overlapping Transcriptome Alterations Reveal the Mechanism of Interaction between Selenium and Zinc and Their Common Effect on Essential Nutrient Metabolism in Mung Bean (Vigna radiata L.).

Selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) deficiencies have become serious global food security and public health problems. Biofortification through foliar fertilizer is a nonspecific, low-tech, and cost-effective strategy. Se and Zn have overlapping physiological roles and interacting relationships in plants. Mung bean is superior for Se enrichment and an excellent Zn carrier. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the interaction between Se and Zn in the mung bean remains unclear. Herein, Se and Zn accumulation, antioxidant activities, physiological determination, and transcriptomic analysis were performed under both Se and Zn treatments. Common essential roles of Se and Zn in mung bean were reflected by the comprehensively altered ten physiological indexes under both Se2 (24 g·ha-1) and Zn1 (1.2 kg·ha-1) treatments. Overlapping transcriptome changes and common DEGs in two compared groups revealed that the upregulated expression of sulfate transporters (SULTRs), phosphate transporters (PHTs), and Zinc-regulated/Iron-regulated-like protein (ZIP) family genes under Se and Zn treatments directly promoted both Se and Zn intakes. Furthermore, the altered Se/Sulfur, nitrogen, and carbohydrate metabolisms are closely interlinked with the uptake and assimilation of Se and Zn via the 20 key genes that we filtered through the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Further analysis indicated that l-methionine γ-lyase (E 4.4.1.11) genes may play an important role in the transamination of selenomethionine and its derivatives; glutamine synthetase (GS), nitrate reductase (NR), and starch synthase (SS) genes may regulate the nitrogen assimilation and carbohydrate metabolism, which provide more carriers for Se and Zn; glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC), and serine acetyltransferase (SAT) genes may accelerate the GSH-GSSH cycle and promote Se and Zn storages. This study provides new molecular insights into the comprehensive improvement of the nutritional quality of mung beans in Se and Zn biofortification productions.

Evaluation of the Total Antioxidant Capacity of Three Selected Plants in Guyana

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the leaf extracts of three commonly used medicinal plants in Guyana, namely Brassica juncea (mustard), Struchium sparganophora (antsbush), and Psidium guajava (guava), for their total antioxidant capacity. Study Design: Experimental-based study. Place and Duration of Study: The experiments were performed at the chemistry laboratory in the Faculty of Natural Sciences and the main laboratory in the College of Medical Sciences at the University of Guyana from September 2022 to August 2023. Methodology: The leaves of these plants were collected, washed, and air-dried at 280C for approximately one month, then pulverised in a sterilised food processor. Leaf extracts were then obtained by maceration with various solvents such as hexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform, and methanol; followed by filtration and rotary evaporation. The extracts obtained were then subjected to total antioxidant quantification via the phosphomolybdate method using a spectrophotometer. The total antioxidant capacity of the extracts was expressed as ascorbic acid equivalents. Results: Antioxidant activity was seen for all the extracts but in varying quantities. The highest antioxidant capacity was observed for the P. guajava extracts with a mean of 5.2 mg/mL. The least activity was observed for the S. sparganophora extracts, with a mean of 0.9 mg/mL. The ethanolic extracts showed the highest antioxidant capacity (10.6 mg/mL for P. guajava; 2.5 mg/mL for B. juncea). The hexane extracts had the least (0.33 mg/mL for P. guajava; 0.24 mg/mL for B. juncea). Conclusion: The leaves of B. juncea, S. sparganophora, and P. guajava have antioxidant capacity but those of P. guajava have greater potential for use as complementary and alternative treatments for chronic diseases.

Antioxidant peptides from silver carp steak by alkaline protease and flavor enzyme hydrolysis: Characterization of their structure and cytoprotective effects against H2O2-induced oxidative stress.

Silver carp steak is a rarely utilized silver carp processing byproduct. This study aimed to optimize a dual enzymatic method to extract antioxidant peptide components from silver carp steak and characterize their structure and in vitro antioxidant activity through ultrafiltration purification, response surface methodology, molecular docking, and radical scavenging activity analysis. The optimal extraction conditions for silver carp steak antioxidant peptides (SCSAP) were determined as 1:6 solid-liquid ratio, 1500 U/g alkaline protease addition, 4 h alkaline protease hydrolysis time, 1946 U/g flavor enzyme addition, and 2.5 h flavor enzyme hydrolysis time. The <3 kDa SCSAP component (SCSAP-3kDa) showed the strongest antioxidant activity, with its 1,1-diphenyl-2-trinitrophenyl hydrazine (DPPH) radical scavenging rate, ABTS radical scavenging rate, hydroxyl radical scavenging rate, metal ion chelating rate, and reducing capacity reaching 88.75%, 91.21%, 67.02%, 69.07%, and 0.985, respectively. Moreover, the three peptides (PF-7, GP-8, and YF-10) of 100 µg/mL could protect HepG2 cells from oxidative stress damage by reducing the oxidative damage level and activating Keap1-Nrf2-ARE pathways, enabling an increase of superoxide dismutases (SOD) activity, and a decrease of malondialdehyde (MDA) content and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. The integrated results indicate the enormous potential of SCSAP-3kDa as a functional food ingredient in the food industry. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study selected the antioxidant capacity of silver carp steak peptides as the index and developed a facile dual enzymatic hydrolysis method to obtain three antioxidant peptides (PF-7, GP-8, and YF-10) with biological activity, providing a theoretical basis for bioavailability of antioxidant peptides from silver carp steak and contributing to their application in new functional foods.

Antioxidant, Apoptotic, and Wound Healing Effects of Xantolis Cambodiana Extracts in Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts.

Xantolis cambodiana has demonstrated significant antioxidant properties; however, the mechanisms underlying its protective effects against oxidative stress in cellular systems remain unexplored. This work investigated the efficacy of methanolic extracts in exhibiting oxidative damage and examined their mechanisms. The methanolic extract had a high phenolic content (116.89±29.01 mg GAE/g FW) and exhibited scavenging of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals with an IC50 value of 42.35±9.20 μg/ml. In addition, it had the highest antioxidant activity based on ferric-reducing antioxidant power (467.45±50.74 mg AA/100 g). Normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells were pretreated with the methanolic extract in a hydrogen peroxide (H2O2; 500 mM)-induced oxidative stress model, which resulted in a significant decrease in apoptosis and autophagy. Not only did the methanolic extract reduce mitochondrial membrane potential, it also stimulated NHDF cell migration and reduced reactive oxygen species production through mitochondrial dysfunction in the H2O2-induced stress model. These findings suggested that the methanolic extract (25 μg/ml) attenuated H2O2-induced oxidative stress in NHDF cells, significantly reducing apoptosis, autophagy, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Thus, this extract has the potential to support the wound healing process due to its antioxidant activity.

Active cardboard box with palm wood waste powder and orange oil to prevent browning and quality loss in cabbage: Mode of action and potential for reuse.

Browning, caused by enzymatic activity and storage conditions, affects cabbage during cold storage and is crucial for customer acceptance. This study investigated the effect of cardboard packaging containing low concentrations of nano-orange oil (ONE) at 0.006% in palm wood waste powder for anti-browning and extending the shelf life of cabbage. The incorporation of ONE into palm wood powder (PWP) using different methods (soaking, vapor, vapor with ultrasonic device, and control) was examined before using the active PWP to develop cardboard cabbage packaging. The reuse of the active cabbage box packaging was also investigated for up to three reuses. The results showed that a greater anti-browning effect was achieved with cardboard packaging made from active PWP with orange oil vapor and an ultrasonic device compared to other adsorption methods, with significantly higher inhibition of the key browning enzyme activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD). Additionally, antioxidant activity and bioactive compounds were improved, maintaining the bright green color of cabbage after 21 days of storage. The shelf life of cabbage stored in active cardboard was extended to at least 21 days compared to 5 days for the control. The active cabbage box with PWP and ONE vapor with an ultrasonic device showed potential for reuse at least two times. Limonene was found on the surface of stored cabbage and may be a key factor in antimicrobial activity, helping to control microbial growth on the cabbage surface within standard limits during long-term storage. This finding provides valuable guidance for reducing cabbage waste during transportation and storage from farm to market. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This research offers new insights into active cardboard packaging made from palm wood powder with a low concentration of orange oil vapor to prevent browning and microbial growth in storage boxes. The optimal method for producing this packaging uses nano-orange oil vapor at 0.006% with an ultrasonic device, which could be feasible for large-scale production. The packaging effectively reduced PPO and POD enzyme activity, delaying browning and extending cabbage shelf life by at least threefold compared to the control, while maintaining color and freshness. This cost-effective method promotes the sustainable use of agricultural waste in the fresh vegetable industry, as it can be reused at least twice, benefiting farmers and reducing cabbage waste.

Effect of seasonal variations on phytoconstituents and antimicrobial properties of Holoptelea integrifolia, an important medicinal plant from Kangra District in Himachal Pradesh, India: A case study

Medicinal plants have been used for the treatment of many ailments since time immemorial. The pharmacological significance of these plants is attributed to the presence of secondary metabolites which are greatly affected by the changes in the climatic conditions. This study investigates the effect of seasonal variations on the phytochemical constituents and biological activities of Holoptelea integrifolia leaves and bark in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, India. The antimicrobial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration of various plant extracts were determined using agar well diffusion and resazurin dye methods. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of phytochemical, besides antioxidant activity, were compared in all samples during different seasons. The experimental results revealed that the chloroform extracts of leaves and bark of plants during winter season were most effective against S. flexneri with highest zone of inhibition (ZOI) of 19.5±0.12mm and 22.6 ±0.32mm at 4 mg/40 μμl, respectively. However, MIC of leaf and bark extracts in case of S. flexneri were 0.3125 mg/100 μl and 0.0781 mg/100 μl, respectively. Phytochemical analysis of H. integrifolia confirmed significant seasonal variation, with phenols, flavonoids and terpenoids highest in the winter season, while alkaloids dominated in autumn season. The chloroform extract of H. integrifolia leaves and bark exhibited highest antioxidant activity in DPPH assay (78.81±0.12% &amp; 81.41±0.24%) followed by H2O2 and phosphomolybdenum at 300μg/ml conc. respectively. The results of the present work revealed that the bark of H. integrifolia during winter season exhibited better antimicrobial activity than the leaves, providing a valuable basis for the future efforts in developing novel herbal drugs.

Crotalaria madurensis flavonol glycosides’ antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are prevalent in hospitals and often lead to significant health complications. This study aimed to explore the chemical composition of the aerial part of Crotalaria madurensis and evaluate its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The impact of gamma irradiation on the antibacterial properties of the plant extract and metabolite 1 against MRSA was also examined. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis was conducted on the filtrates of untreated MRSA and MRSA treated with the plant extract and metabolite 1. Four flavonol glycosides were identified as gossypetin 8-methoxy, 3-O-β-D-xylopyranoside (metabolite 1), gossypetin 8-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (metabolite 2), kaempferol 3-O-β-D-glucpyranoside (Astragalin, metabolite 3), and herbacetin 7-methoxy-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (metabolite 4). All metabolites exhibited significant antioxidant properties using different assays. The antibacterial efficacy of the extract and metabolite 1, which showed substantial antioxidant properties compared to the other isolated metabolites, was evaluated. Both the plant extract and metabolite 1 significantly reduced the viability and cell count of MRSA at concentrations of 1.0 and 0.5 mg/ml. The antibacterial activity of the plant extract and metabolite 1 was assessed after gamma irradiation at 50 and 100 Gy, which did not significantly affect the antibacterial efficiency. FTIR analysis indicated that the plant extract and metabolite 1 significantly altered the band frequency values, bandwidth, and peak intensity % of the treated MRSA filtrate. Molecular docking studies suggested that metabolite 1 exhibited the highest antioxidant and anti-MRSA activity, with strong binding scores like the ligand, indicating an effective interaction and high affinity between metabolite 1 and the target molecule.

Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Therapeutic Potential of Su‘ad Kūfī (Cyperus rotundus L.): An Insight

Background: Cyperus rotundus, an important medicinal plant belonging to the Cyperaceae family, is therapeutically used in many traditional systems of medicine, such as Unani medicine, Ayurveda, Siddha, Homeopathy, Chinese medicine, etc. Aim: The prime goal of this review is to provide a scientific basis and classical references for clinical use and further scientific exploration of Cyperus rotundus. Materials and Methods: This systemic review was carried out after searching Unani classical and other ethnobotanical literature and published research work available on PubMed, SCOPUS, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Research Gate, etc. Results: Cyperus rotundus L. is the accepted botanical name of Su'ad Kūfī, Nagarmotha, or Nutgrass as referred in Unani and other traditional medicines. It is grown in India, China, the Philippines, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Pacific Islands, South America, Africa, the Middle East, North America, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. Usually, the rhizome of this important medicinal plant is therapeutically used for various ailments, including indigestion, constipation, dysentery, neurogenic gastralgia, skin diseases, mental weakness, cardiac weakness, nervine weakness, palpitation, weakness of stomach, flatulence, retention of urine, amenorrhea, dribbling of urine, etc. It contains many important secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, sitosterol, alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, essential oils, sugar, protein, amino acids, etc., which have been reported to possess antibacterial, anti-tumour, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic, anti-diarrhoeal, anti-inflammatory, antilipidemic, antimalarial, anti-obesity, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective pharmacological activities. Conclusion: It is concluded that abundant bioactive compounds identified and separated from Cyperus rotundus possess potential medicinal values on different systems of the body.

Biochar and nanoscale silicon synergistically alleviate arsenic toxicity and enhance productivity in chili peppers (Capsicum annuum L.)

Arsenic (As) contamination in agricultural soils threatens crop productivity and food safety. In this study, we examined the efficacy of biochar (BC) and silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) as environmentally sustainable soil amendments to alleviate As toxicity in chili (Capsicum annuum L.) plants. Our findings revealed that As stress severely inhibited the growth parameters of Capsicum annuum L., and subsequently reduced yield. However, the application of BC and SiNPs into the contaminated soil significantly reversed these negative effects, promoting plant length and biomass, particularly when applied together in a synergistic manner. Arsenic stress led to increased oxidative damage, as evidenced by a 29% increase in leaf malondialdehyde content as compared to the healthy plants. Nevertheless, the synergistic (BC + SiNPs) application effectively modulated antioxidant enzyme activity, resulting in a remarkable 55% and 66% enhancement in the superoxide dismutase and catalase levels, respectively, boosting chili's resistance against oxidative stress. Similarly, BC + SiNPs amendments improved photosynthesis by 52%, stomatal conductance by 39%, soluble sugars by 42%, and proteins by 30% as compared with those of control treatment. Additionally, the combined BC + SiNPs application significantly reduced root As content by 61% and straw As by 37% as compared with the control one. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed that the synergistic use of BC and SiNPs preserved chili leaf ultrastructure, shielding against As-induced damage. Overall, the supplementation of contaminated soil with BC and SiNPs was proved to be a sustainable strategy for mitigating As toxicity in chili peppers, enhancing plant growth, physiology, and yield, and thereby food safety.