Antioxidant Potential Research Articles

Nanoparticles based on whey and soy proteins enhance the antioxidant activity of phenolic compound extract from Cantaloupe melon pulp flour (Cucumis melo L.)

The phenolic compounds (PC) present in the pulp flour of Cantaloupe melon (Cucumis melo L.) were encapsulated in whey protein isolate (EPWI), whey protein concentrate (EPWC), and soy protein isolate (EPSP) by nanoprecipitation to evaluate the effect on the antioxidant potential in vitro. The crude extract was evaluated for the content and profile of PC, presenting 750 ± 60.73 mg EAG/100 g and ten different types with emphasis on procyanidin B1 (213.9 ± 33.23 mg/kg) and fumaric acid (181.6 ± 30.55 mg/kg). The characterization indicated the incorporation efficiency of PC in the range of 74.10 ± 0.28–90.60 ± 6.52 %, formation of spherical particles with smooth surfaces, average diameters between 74.90 ± 10.78–96.57 ± 10.17 nm, amorphous structure, and chemical interactions between the materials, justifying the potentiation of the antioxidant activity of the crude extract by up to six times (p < 0.05). Therefore, nanoencapsulation using protein materials and the nanoprecipitation technique is a promising strategy to promote the encapsulation of PC from Cantaloupe melon.

A critical review of antioxidant potential and pharmacological applications of important Ficus species

The Ficus genus is universally recognized for its medicinal properties. This article aims to comprehensively review the antioxidant potential and pharmacological properties of some key Ficus species within the genus, regarding their natural antioxidants and pharmacological properties. An extensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases using keywords such as Ficus species, antioxidant activity, and pharmacological applications. This review revealed notable differences in antioxidant capacity among the selected Ficus species. Comparative studies within the review indicated that factors such as geographical location, extraction method, and specific part of the plant used, significantly influenced the antioxidant activity and phytochemical content. Among these, F. benghalensis, F. carica, and F. krishnae exhibited the highest antioxidant capacities. Regarding overall pharmacological effectiveness, the species that out were F. religiosa, F. carica, and F. elastica. In sum, Ficus species emerge as a promising source of natural antioxidants with substantial pharmacological potential. Future research should focus on clinical trials to validate their medicinal uses, exploring the mechanism of actions, and potential applications in developing novel therapeutic agents.

Chromium uptake and its impact on antioxidant level, photosynthetic machinery, and related gene expression in Brassica napus cultivars.

The development of heavy metals, particularly chromium (Cr)-tolerant crop cultivars, is hampered due to lack of understanding of the mechanisms behind Cr stress tolerance. In this study, two Brassica napus cultivars, ZS758 and ZD622, were compared for Cr stress resistance by using the chlorophyll a fluorescence technique and biochemical characteristics. In both cultivars, Cr stress dramatically decreased PSII and PSI efficiency, biomass accumulation, and antioxidant enzyme levels. Although, cultivar ZS758 showed reduction in oxidative stress by decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in terms of reduced H2O2 and MDA content and increased enzymatic activities of key antioxidants enzymes including SOD, APX, CAT, and POD activities that play a crucial role in the regulation of numerous transcriptional pathways involved in oxidative stress responses. Higher non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) and QY were found in tolerant ZS758 cultivar under Cr stress, indicating that tolerant cultivar had a greater capacity to preserve PSII activity under Cr stress by enhancing heat dissipation as a photo-protective component of NPQ. Lower PSI activity and electron transfer from PSII were confirmed by lower PSI efficiency and higher donor end limitation of PSI in both rapeseed cultivars. The Cr concentration was greater in the ZD622 as compared to ZS758, which affected the mineral nutrients profile and damaged the cellular ultrastructure and related gene expression levels. However, current study suggest that cultivar ZS758 is more resistant to Cr stress than ZD622 due to improved metabolism and structural integrity and Cr stress tolerance that is linked with the increased PSII activity, NPQ, and antioxidant potential; these physiological characteristics can be exploited to select cultivars for Cr stress tolerance.

Systematic Review on Herbal Preparations for Controlling Visceral Hypersensitivity in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders.

Visceral hypersensitivity (VH) is an overreaction of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to various stimuli and is characterized by hyperalgesia and/or allodynia. VH contributes to the etiology of many GI dysfunctions, particularly irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Although the exact mechanisms underlying VH are yet to be found, inflammation and oxidative stress, psychosocial factors, and sensorimotor alterations may play significant roles in it. In this review, we provide an overview of VH and its pathophysiological function in GI disorders. Adverse effects of synthetic drugs may make herbal agents a good candidate for pain management. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss the efficacy of herbal agents in the management of VH with a focus on their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials. Data were extracted from clinical and animal studies published in English between 2004 and June, 2020, which were collected from PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Cochrane Library. Overall, Radix, Melissia, Glycyrrhizae, Mentha, and Liquorice were the most efficient herbals for VH management in IBS and dyspepsia, predominantly through modulation of the mRNA expression of transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1 (TRPV1) and suppression of 5- hydroxytryptamine 3 (5-HT3) or the serotonin receptors. Considering the positive effects of herbal formulations in VH management, further research on novel herbal and/or herbal/chemical preparations is warranted.

Antioxidant potential and stability of bovine liver peptides in fermented sausage (sucuk): A pathway to value-added functional meat products

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the stability of low-molecular-weight peptides after their incorporation into fermented sausages. Peptide fractions were produced from the bovine liver peptides (BLP) by enzymatic hydrolysis. Optimal conditions were identified as hydrolysis at 45 °C for 24 h, resulting in the generation of <3 kDa and <10 kDa peptide fractions exhibiting the highest antioxidant activity. The antioxidant potential of fermented sausages made from beef meat containing BLPs at 0.5% and 1% concentrations was assessed during manufacturing and storage. The initial antioxidant activity values of the sausages containing BLPs were higher than that of the control. Furthermore, the stability of the peptides in the sausages was demonstrated by their preserved antioxidant activity for 102 days. Peptides extracted from 1% of <10 kDa-peptide containing sausages possessed two-fold higher radical scavenging activity than control. The highest peptide concentration in the sausages containing 1% of <10 kDa-peptides (79.32±1.34–101.56±1.22 μg peptide/mg) was maintained from day 0 to day 102. The SDS-PAGE profile of myofibrillar proteins and peptide extracts revealed the degradation of proteins were delayed in <10 kDa of peptide added sausages, suggesting that the protein oxidation was slowed down. These results contribute to the advancement of peptide commercialization as functional ingredients in fermented food products. Furthermore, our research sheds light on the enduring impact of fermentation on the stability of the added peptides and the synergistic interactions between naturally produced peptides during fermentation and those introduced externally.

Alpinia galanga induces caspase-dependent apoptotic cell death in human lung and cervical cancer cells

Introduction: Alpinia galanga (L.) Willd is a rhizomatous, recurrent herb used to treat numerous diseases, including cancer. This study examines the efficiency of the different parts of A. galanga for their phytochemical, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. Methods: The powdered leaf, stem, and rhizome of A. galanga were extracted using hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol; the phytochemical compositions of the extracts were characterized using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Their antioxidant potentials were evaluated using different assays, including 2,2-Diphenyl-1picrylhydrazil (DPPH), 2-Azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS), Superoxide anion (O2-), Hydroxyl radical (OH), and Phosphomolybdenum assays. The in vitro anticancer activity was studied using the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Comet assay was used to determine the level of DNA damage. Inductions of morphological alterations were studied using the AO/Et-Br dual staining method. The ELISA kits were used to measure caspase activities. Results: The cytotoxicity results showed that the various extracts had inhibitory and cytotoxic effects on cancer cell lines. The leaf hexane (LH) extract of A. galanga induced DNA damage with prominent increased tail length and tail moment followed by the induction of apoptotic cells and up-regulation of the caspase activities. HPLC and GC-MS analysis allowed the identification of bioactive compounds, recognized as apoptotic inducers in human cancer cells by activating caspase-dependent pathways. Conclusion: This work reports for the first time the effect of LH extract of A. galanga in triggering apoptosis in A-549 and HeLa cells through the upregulation of caspase-8 and caspase-3 activities.

Fermentative production, comparative characterization with carrots, and functional analysis of β-carotene produced from Rhodotorulla toruloids

Beta-carotene is the most widely demanded red-orange colored pigment having several applications in the food, cosmetic, and dying industries. Synthetic pigments pose serious side effects leading to the need for natural alternatives. In this study, β-carotene was extracted from fungi, and carrots. The confirmation and characterization of β-carotene was carried out via spectrophotometry, Thin Layer chromatography, and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. Finally, the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the pigment were identified and its application as a dye was tested. The isolated yeast strain was identified as Rhodotorulla toruloids. Submerged fermentation of R. toruloids in YPD medium (wit 4% Dextrose) produced maximum biomass (0.6g/L) at 25°C. Using chloroform and methanol, 0.36g/L β-carotene yield was obtained. The R. toruloids extracted β-carotene showed the highest antibacterial potential against Salmonella sp. with 25.3±0.3 mm inhibition zones as compared to that of carrot extracted β-carotene i.e., 20.3±0.26mm. The DPPH analysis also revealed R. toruloids derived β-carotene as a strong antioxidant. The R. toruloids extracted β-carotene also cast a strong red color on cotton indicating it as a suitable candidate for organic dye. It is concluded from this study that β-carotene extracted from R. toruloids showed better antimicrobial and antioxidant potential along with its efficient ability to dye cotton as compared to the carrot's β-carotene. Hence, R. toruloids, being easily available and cost-effective production can prove better β-carotene source as compared to carrots.

The efficacy of allelopathy of select lichens on antioxidant potential and proliferation of Ceratophyllum demersum L.

The efficacy of allelopathy of select lichens on antioxidant potential and proliferation of Ceratophyllum demersum L.

Comparative analysis, nutritional properties, and in- vitro gastrointestinal digestion of the antioxidant potential of roselle leaves using drying techniques

This study aimed to provide new insight into the influence of nutritional properties and in- vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the antioxidant activities of roselle leaves (RL) by applying drying techniques, specifically freeze-drying, oven-drying, sun-drying, and hot air-drying. The results observed that freeze-dried RL had higher nutritional and physical properties compared to other drying techniques. It had the maximum values of protein (6.61 g/100 g), fat (7.74 g/100 g), ash (18.53 g/100 g), crude fiber (9.46 g/100 g), water activity (0.32), pH (2.54), and titratable acidity (0.027%). In addition, all treatments on RL samples were evaluated for their functional characteristics. Furthermore, after in-vitro digestion, the antioxidant potential of total phenolic contents and flavonoid levels exhibited a percentage rise of 2.1% and 12.03% across all treated samples (54.98 ± 0.02 to 57.08 ± 0.05 mg/g and 28.66 ± 0.02 to 40.69 ± 0.03 mg/g), respectively. Interestingly, the total anthocyanin, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, ferric-reducing antioxidant power, and vitamin C in all dried samples levels decreased and ranged from 49.17 ± 02 to 4.91 ± 0.42 mg/g, 84.92 ± 0.21 to 80.81 ± 0.21%, 14.65 ± 0.48 to 1.12 ± 0.21 mg/g, and 8.8 ± 0.06 to 2.24 ± 0.04 mg/L, respectively, after digestion. Consequently, freeze-drying techniques demonstrate advantageous effects on RL antioxidant potential. RL may serve as a valuable component for incorporating into other products to enhance innovative and functional food products.

Alfalfa sprout flour: A promising ingredient to improve probiotic survival and antioxidant activity in mint-flavored stirred yogurt

This study examined the impact of alfalfa sprout flour (ASF) on the pH, titratable acidity (TA), syneresis, water-holding capacity (WHC), color attributes, antioxidant potential, survival of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5, and sensory properties of mint-flavored stirred yogurt over 24 days of cold storage. Four probiotic yogurt batches were prepared, namely plain probiotic yogurt (PPY), mint-flavored probiotic yogurt (MFPY), and MFPY with 0.5 and 1% w/w of ASF (MFPY-ASF-0.5%, and MFPY-ASF-1%). Yogurt with added ASF exhibited the highest increase in TA (18.80-24.40%) and a decrease in pH (0.18). L. acidophilus maintained the highest survival rate (7.3-7.43 Log CFU/g) in MFPY-ASF-1% yogurt between days 8 to 24 of storage, exceeding the minimum count recommended for the therapeutic effects of probiotics. PPY and MFPY demonstrated significantly lower WHC and higher syneresis values compared to MFPY-ASF-0.5% and MFPY-ASF-1% (P < 0.05). The addition of mint and ASF remarkably decreased lightness (L*) and increased yellowness (b*) and greenness (-a*) values of samples compared to PPY. All flavored samples exhibited a gradual decrease in b* and -a* values, alongside an increase in L* values, during storage. ASF-enriched yogurts showed high total phenol content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity. Although an increase in ASF levels resulted in a reduction in consumer preferences for odor and flavor, all samples received satisfactory overall acceptability scores (3.05-4.30) at the end of storage. In conclusion, the inclusion of ASF at the 1% level presents a promising opportunity for producing value-added yogurt with enhanced probiotic survival, antioxidant activity, and favorable technological properties.

Evaluation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, bioactive compound profiling, and molecular mechanisms of a multicomponent Thai herbal formulation

BackgroundMedicinal plants have long been used as dietary supplements to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, inflammation, cancer, and metabolic syndromes. Traditional remedies possess therapeutic properties, making them promising candidates for further investigation and potential pharmaceutical development. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Belog Plus (BP), a polyherbal product containing five Thai medicinal plants: Citrus aurantifolia, Cannabis sativa, Tiliacora triandra, Alpinia galanga, and Piper nigrum, combined with safflower seed oil. This study focused on quantifying the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), and identifying key herbal biomarkers that contribute to its therapeutic properties. In addition to assessing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of the plant extracts, the study explored the molecular mechanisms underlying their anti-inflammatory activity, offering a comprehensive understanding of BP's efficacy. MethodsThe ethanolic extract of BP and its components were assessed for antioxidant potential using DPPH, FRAP, and H2O2 induced oxidative stress. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using the Griess reaction assay, and the mechanisms were explored through mRNA and protein expression analysis. The TPC and TFC were measured using the Folin–Ciocalteu (F–C) assay and the aluminium chloride colorimetric assay, respectively, while herbal biomarkers were identified using LC-MS/MS analysis. ResultsThe results revealed that the ethanolic extract of BP (6.25-100 µg/ml) exhibited a potent anti-inflammatory effect through nitric oxide inhibition (IC50 24.4 μg/ml) and significantly reducing the expression of inflammatory genes iNOS, COX-2, IL-6, and TNF-α. Additionally, it significantly reduced the expression of inflammatory proteins iNOS and COX-2 at concentrations of 6.25-25 µg/ml. Among the individual components, C. aurantifolia, A. galanga, and P. nigrum showed potent anti-inflammatory effects with IC50 values of 35.7, 6.5, and 23.3 μg/ml, respectively. The TPC and TFC results demonstrated significant levels of phenolic (80.6 µg GAE/mg) and flavonoid (47.4 µg catechin/mg) compounds. Additionally, the LC-MS/MS analysis identified a variety of bioactive compounds known for their anti-inflammatory properties. ConclusionThese findings support BP's potential use as a dietary supplement to mitigate the risk of chronic inflammatory diseases, with its ethanolic extract containing bioactive phenolic and flavonoid compounds that significantly suppress iNOS and COX-2 protein expressions.

Methionine and vitamin E supplementation improve production performance, antioxidant potential, and liver health in aged laying hens

Methionine and vitamin E supplementation improve production performance, antioxidant potential, and liver health in aged laying hens

Determination of Total Phenolic Content of Ethanol Extract of Black Turmeric Rhizome (Curcuma caesia Roxb.) by Folin-Ciocalteu Method Spectrophotometrically

Due to the high concentration of secondary metabolites present in nearly every part of the plant, black turmeric (Curcuma caesia Roxb.), a traditional medicinal plant, may provide a natural supply of antioxidants. The objective of this research is to determine the total phenolic content of the black turmeric rhizome ethanol extract using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The extraction was performed by macerating the material in a solution consisting of 70% ethanol. We employed the Folin-Ciocalteu method to ascertain the total phenolic content, which was then represented as gallic acid equivalent (GAE). The research revealed that there were 192 mg GAE/g of total phenolic content in the ethanol extract of black turmeric rhizome. According to the metrics measuring total phenolic content, the black turmeric rhizome ethanol extract may have antioxidant properties. This study provides important information about black turmeric's antioxidant potential which can be used to develop herbal products based on this plant.

Ethanolic extract of Parkia speciosa pods exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in lipopolysaccharide-induced murine macrophages by inhibiting the p38 MAPK pathway

BackgroundParkia speciosa (PS) is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine and traditional medicine to treat diabetes, hypertension, dermatitis, and kidney diseases. PS has emerged as a subject of interest because of its potential antioxidation and anti-inflammatory properties. However, despite its historically long and wide usage, a comprehensive investigation of these properties in PS pods (PSp) have not been conducted. Aims of this studyThis study aimed to identify the phytochemical compounds in the ethanolic extract of PSp collected from Southern Thailand and assess whether PSp exhibit antioxidant properties and mitigate inflammation in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 model. Materials and methodsThe ethanolic extract of PSp was comprehensively analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) to identify its phytochemical constituents. To assess the antioxidant activity, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid (ABTS) assays were performed, and cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay. The effect of PSp on reactive nitrogen and oxygen species (RNS and ROS) was determined using a nitric oxide (NO) assay, and its effect on pro-inflammatory cytokines was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and real-time quatitvative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Morphological changes following treatment were observed using a microscope. Western blot analysis was performed to quantify MAPK pathway expression. ResultsPSp contain polyphenols, phytosterols, triterpenes, oxaloacetic acid, and unsaturated fatty acids. PSp demonstrated high antioxidant potential in scavenging free radicals and exhibited no cytotoxic effects on macrophages. Moreover, PSp effectively reduced NO release and inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL1-β, TNF-α, and IL-6. PSp treatment induced notable morphological changes in macrophages, characterized by an increase in cell size and the presence of intracellular vacuoles. In addition, Western blot analysis showed the selective suppressive effect of PSp on the p38-MAPK pathway. ConclusionPSp possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of inflammatory disorders.

Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana L.) leaf juice encapsulated within polysaccharides-blend-based carriers: Characterization and application as potential antioxidants in mayonnaise production

This study aimed to encapsulate cold-pressed horseradish leaf juice within maltodextrin/alginate (MD/AL), maltodextrin/guar gum (MD/GG), and maltodextrin/gum Arabic (MD/GA) by spray-drying, to characterize the encapsulates, and to test their potential as mayonnaise oxidation-preventing ingredients. The encapsulates exhibited desirable physicochemical, morphological, structural, and thermal properties, highlighting MD/GA-containing encapsulates, especially regarding high encapsulation yield (78.50 %). Also, encapsulates contained a significant amount of phenolics, which were stable during freezer storage. The encapsulates successfully delayed the mayonnaise oxidation: 31.91–38.94 % more than the synthetic antioxidant ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, especially highlighting MD/AL-containing encapsulates. Also, the encapsulates improved product quality with a higher pH and lower acidity after storage compared to the controls. Overall acceptability of encapsulates-containing mayonnaises and commercial mayonnaise did not differ significantly. This study contributes to sustainable development by providing new insights into the valorization of horseradish leaves, as a promising alternative to synthetic additives to prolong the oxidative stability and shelf-life of high-oil-containing foods.

An Oxidative Stress Study on Curcumin and NanoCurcumin against Aluminum Phosphide-induced Kidney Injury in Rats: The Role of SIRT1/FOXO3 Signaling Pathway in Nephrotoxicity.

In this study, we have investigated the aluminium phosphide (ALP) toxicity on Renal Function and oxidative stress in kidney tissue of male rats and the possible protective role of Curcumin and nanoCurcumin against ALP-induced nephrotoxicity. Thirty-six adult male rats were divided into 6 groups (n=6). ALP (2 mg/kg oral administration) and control groups received Curcumin and nanoCurcumin (oral administration 100 mg/kg) or without it. After seven days of treatment, kidney parameters, oxidative stress biomarkers, and expression level of sirtuins1 (SIRT1)/Forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1) pathway genes were evaluated in kidney tissue. In addition, histopathological changes in the kidney tissues were assayed. In the ALP group, compared to the control group, lipid peroxidation levels, urea, and creatinine were increased, and total antioxidant capacity and thiol groups decreased significantly p < 0.05. In Curcumin and nanoCurcumin groups compared to the ALP group, lipid peroxidation and creatinine decreased significantly p < 0.05. Also, Curcumin and nanoCurcumin improved the tissue damage caused by ALP. NanoCurcumin modulated the effect of ALP on the gene expression levels in SIRT1/FoxO1. The present study showed that ALP intoxication in kidney tissue can induce oxidative damage. Moreover, Curcumin and nanocurcumin, as potential antioxidants, can be effective therapeutics in ALP-induced nephrotoxicity.

Phytochemical Profiling and Bioactive Properties of Essential Oils from Endemic Palestinian Satureja thymbrifolia.

Despite several studies on the Satureja L. genus, the chemical composition and biological activities of the traditional medicinal plant Satureja thymbrifolia (White Thyme), a Palestinian endemic species, are still unknown. It grows in arid regions and is used by Bedouins as a traditional medicinal herb. This study aimed to investigate S. thymbrifolia essential oils (EOs), mainly from its phytochemical pattern and biological properties. The GC-MS study identified p-cymene (48.53%) and thymol (23.27%) as the leading EOs components. Compared to Trolox, the EOs showed potential anti-DPPH free radical activity and had broad-spectrum antimicrobial potentials, with MIC values ranging from 0.13 ± 0.05 to 25 ± 0.00 µL/mL. They were most effective against Candida albicans species. The S. thymbrifolia EOs most effectively eliminated cancer cells when tested against CaCo-2 and HeLa cell lines (IC50 values of 192.15 ± 2.47 and 194.80 ± 1.87 µg/mL, respectively). The present investigation is the first documented study of S. thymbrifolia EOs' phytochemical composition and bioactivities. The results revealed that S. thymbrifolia EOs have potential antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic effects. These outcomes emphasized S. thymbrifolia EO's potential dietary, pharmacological, and cosmetic applications.

Synthesis, Molecular Docking Studies and Biological Evaluation of Thiazolyl Hydrazone Derivatives of Chromone-3-carbaldehyde as Potent Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agents.

A series of 15 thiazolyl hydrazone derivatives of chromone-3- carbaldehyde have been designed and synthesized by the cyclization of thiosemicarbazone derivatives of chromone-3-carbaldehydes with 4'-substituted-2-bromo acetophenones. All these derivatives were evaluated for antioxidant activity by their direct scavenging activity objects to reactive oxygen species such as DPPH, and nitric oxide, as well as in vitro antiinflammatory activity by a protein denaturation method. Most of these synthesized compounds have shown significant antioxidant activity, among which the compounds 5b, 5c, 5e, 5g, and 5j showed very good antioxidant activities in comparison with the standard ascorbic acid. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity revealed that the compounds 5b, 5g, and 5h possessed significant activity compared to standard diclofenac sodium. Additionally, molecular docking studies of these molecules using ovalbumin as the protein showed remarkable interactions with its active site residues, and the results indicated that the binding mode of these compounds closely resembled that of the reference compound, diclofenac sodium. Thus, these compounds represent an attractive template for the evaluation of new antiinflammatory and antioxidant agents and might be useful for exploring new therapeutic tools.

Quercetin supplementation improved the growth and health of juvenile Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis) fed low-fishmeal diets

The substitution of fishmeal with plant proteins can induce oxidative stress in aquatic animals and impair their growth and health. Quercetin is a potent natural antioxidant, but its specific effects on the growth and health of Chinese mitten crabs, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms, remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impact of quercetin on the growth, physiological and biochemical parameters, gut microbiota, and transcriptome of juvenile Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis). Crabs (0.53 ± 0.01 g) were randomly divided into seven groups. One group was fed a diet containing normal fishmeal (35 % fishmeal), whereas the other six groups were fed diets containing low levels of fishmeal (15 % fishmeal) supplemented with different levels of quercetin (0, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, or 4000 mg/kg). Each group had four replicate tanks with 40 crabs per 300 L tank, and the experiment lasted for 56 days. The growth performance of the 35 % fishmeal group was significantly greater than that of the 15 % fishmeal group without quercetin. However, quercetin significantly increased the weight gain rate and specific growth rate of juvenile crabs, especially in the 1000 mg/kg quercetin group, where these rates exceeded those of the normal fishmeal group. The antioxidant capacity and immunity of the 35 % fishmeal group were significantly greater than those of the 15 % fishmeal group. However, quercetin supplementation promoted the antioxidant capacity and immunity of the crabs. Quercetin supplementation at 4000 mg/kg changed the gut microbiota structure by decreasing beneficial bacteria and increasing pathogenic bacteria. Quercetin supplementation enhanced the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of Chinese mitten crabs by increasing glutamate metabolism, pantothenic acid and Coenzyme A biosynthesis, sphingolipid metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and cysteine and methionine metabolism. This study revealedthat dietary supplementation with quercetin can promote Chinese mitten crab growth, antioxidant capacity, and nonspecific immunity; improve gut morphology; and promote gut microbiota homeostasis. The optimal dietary concentration of 688–695 mg/kg is recommended on the basis of weight gain and specific growth rate analyses.

Green Synthesis of Silver and Copper Nanoparticles Using Parthenium hysterophorus: Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Anticancer Properties

AbstractNanoparticles (NPs) have gained attention for their unique properties and potential applications, particularly in medicine. This study aim to investigate the green synthesis of silver and copper nanoparticles (NPs) using Parthenium hestephorus extract and evaluate their biological activities. The synthesized NPs were characterized using various analytical techniques, such as UV‐Vis spectroscopy, which confirmed the successful synthesis of silver and copper nanoparticles, with characteristic absorption peaks observed at 450 nm and 580 nm, respectively. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) were also conducted. In antimicrobial evaluations, the silver and copper nanoparticles exhibited notable inhibitory zones ranging from 12–18 mm against Staphylococcus aureus and 27–30 mm against Escherichia coli bacteria. Furthermore, the nanoparticles’ potential as anticancer agents were tested on HepG2 human cancer cells using the MTT assay. The silver, copper nanoparticles, and control exhibited dose‐dependent cytotoxicity, with IC50 values of 35 μg/mL, 50 μg/ml, and 30 μg/ml, respectively, suggesting their promise in cancer treatment. Antioxidant activity was demonstrated through free radical scavenging assays, with silver and copper nanoparticles showing significant potential, inhibiting free radicals by 80 %, 70 %, and 90 %, respectively. It is concluded that the green synthesis of silver and copper nanoparticles using extract of Parthenium hestephorus presents an efficient and sustainable method for generating NPs with potent antibacterial, anticancer, and antioxidant capabilities.