Antioxidant Potential Of Extracts Research Articles

GC-MS ANALYSIS, CHOLINESTERASE INHIBITORY AND ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIALS OF ZAPOTECA PORTORICENSIS (JACQ.) H.M. HERN (FABACEAE) ROOT EXTRACTS

The age-related neurodegenerative illness known as Alzheimer's disease (AD) is typified by the unavoidable decline in cognitive function. Existing drugs has limitations, therefore there is an urgent need for new neurotherapeutic agents. There has been a lot of excitement in recent years about finding therapeutic herbs that can restore cognitive impairment due to their lower side effects. The aim of the study is to evaluate the cholinesterase inhibitory and antioxidant potentials of Zapoteca portoricensis (Jacq.) H.M. Hern root extracts and also identify the bioactive molecules present. Ellman colorimetric assay was used to evaluate the cholinesterase inhibitory potentials of various extracts at 1 mg/mL. The antioxidant potentials of extracts were evaluated using in-vitro chemical analysis. GC-MS was used to identify bioactive molecules from most active extract. One-way ANOVA at α0.05 was adopted. Ethyl acetate extract showed the highest acetylcholinesterase (IC50 = 0.149±0.00 mg/mL) and butyrylcholinesterase (IC50 = 0.393±0.02 mg/mL) inhibitory potential as compared to eserine for AChE (IC50 = 0.051±0.01 mg/mL) and for BuChE (IC50 = 0.049±0.00 mg/mL). Ethyl acetate extract also demonstrated its potential to chelate metals (IC50 = 0.106±0.02 mg/mL) as compared to EDTA (IC50 = 0.086±0.00 mg/mL). The DPPH radical scavenging potential was higher in ethyl acetate extract (IC50 = 0.082±0.05 mg/mL) when compared to vitamin C (IC50 = 0.008±0.00 mg/mL). The total antioxidant capacity of extracts revealed that ethyl acetate extract also has the highest concentration (125.5±14.3 mg/g AAE/g of extract (R2=0.9276)). The GC-MS analysis of ethyl acetate extract revealed the presence of 62 compounds which includes n-Hexadecanoic acid (RT 14.81, Area % 10.03), 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (RT 15.97, Area % 10.03), cis-9-Hexadecenal (RT 16.01, Area % 8.36). The ethyl acetate extract from the root of Zapoteca portoricensis has the aptitude to prolong the half-life of acetylcholine by its ability to inhibit cholinesterase enzyme.

GC-MS ANALYSIS, CHOLINESTERASE INHIBITORY AND ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIALS OF ZAPOTECA PORTORICENSIS (JACQ.) H.M. HERN (FABACEAE) ROOT EXTRACTS

The age-related neurodegenerative illness known as Alzheimer's disease (AD) is typified by the unavoidable decline in cognitive function. Existing drugs has limitations, therefore there is an urgent need for new neurotherapeutic agents. There has been a lot of excitement in recent years about finding therapeutic herbs that can restore cognitive impairment due to their lower side effects. The aim of the study is to evaluate the cholinesterase inhibitory and antioxidant potentials of Zapoteca portoricensis (Jacq.) H.M. Hern root extracts and also identify the bioactive molecules present. Ellman colorimetric assay was used to evaluate the cholinesterase inhibitory potentials of various extracts at 1 mg/mL. The antioxidant potentials of extracts were evaluated using in-vitro chemical analysis. GC-MS was used to identify bioactive molecules from most active extract. One-way ANOVA at α0.05 was adopted. Ethyl acetate extract showed the highest acetylcholinesterase (IC50 = 0.149±0.00 mg/mL) and butyrylcholinesterase (IC50 = 0.393±0.02 mg/mL) inhibitory potential as compared to eserine for AChE (IC50 = 0.051±0.01 mg/mL) and for BuChE (IC50 = 0.049±0.00 mg/mL). Ethyl acetate extract also demonstrated its potential to chelate metals (IC50 = 0.106±0.02 mg/mL) as compared to EDTA (IC50 = 0.086±0.00 mg/mL). The DPPH radical scavenging potential was higher in ethyl acetate extract (IC50 = 0.082±0.05 mg/mL) when compared to vitamin C (IC50 = 0.008±0.00 mg/mL). The total antioxidant capacity of extracts revealed that ethyl acetate extract also has the highest concentration (125.5±14.3 mg/g AAE/g of extract (R2=0.9276)). The GC-MS analysis of ethyl acetate extract revealed the presence of 62 compounds which includes n-Hexadecanoic acid (RT 14.81, Area % 10.03), 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (RT 15.97, Area % 10.03), cis-9-Hexadecenal (RT 16.01, Area % 8.36). The ethyl acetate extract from the root of Zapoteca portoricensis has the aptitude to prolong the half-life of acetylcholine by its ability to inhibit cholinesterase enzyme. Keywords: Fabaceae, Zapoteca portoricensis, Cholinesterase inhibition, Antioxidant, GC-MS

Phytochemical and in vitro anthelmintic properties of mesocarp of fruit extracts from Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile (Zygophyllaceae)

Introduction: Balanites aegyptiaca L. (DEL) is a plant used in Burkina Faso in traditional medicine to treat gastrointestinal parasitosis. The purpose of this study was to assess the in vitro anthelmintic activity of aqueous and hydro-ethanolic macerates (AM and HEM) of the fruit mesocarp from Balanites aegyptiaca against Haemonchus contortus. Methods: Phytochemical screening of the extracts was done using thin-layer chromatography. The egg hatch inhibition assay (EHIA) at 0.125, 0.15, 0.25, 0.625, 1.25, and 5 mg/mL and Adult worms mortality assay (AWMA) at 0.625, 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, and 15 mg/mL concentrations were evaluated. Albendazole and levamisole were used as standards, and phosphate-buffered saline was used as a negative control. The antioxidant potential of extracts was evaluated using the ABTS [2,2’-azinobis (3-ethyl benzoin-6-sulphonate)] and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-picrylhydrazine) methods and Fe3+ ion reducing power. The standards used were trolox and ascorbic acid. Results: Several secondary metabolites such as sterols, triterpenes, tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, and saponins were identified. For EHIA, the AM was more effective than HEM with 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of 0.35 mg/mL and 0.43 mg/mL, respectively. AM was even more effective for AWMA than HEM, with 50% lethal concentrations (LC50) of 3.15 mg/mL and 8.37 mg/mL, respectively. The DPPH method gave an IC50 of 834.55 μg/mL and the capacity to reduce ferric ion (Fe3+) to ferrous ion (Fe2+) was 270.4 µmol/Ascorbic acid equivalent. Conclusion: AM and HEM from the mesocarp of B. aegyptiaca have anthelmintic properties. AM is more effective than HEM, which justifies their use with priority for AM.

Use of yeast extract to elicit a pulp-derived callus cultures from Annurca apple and potentiate its biological activity

Today, plant cell cultures represent a valid alternative method to produce secondary metabolites. Here, we developed a protocol to obtain callus cultures from the pulp of the Italian apple variety, named Annurca. To increase the accumulation of bioactive compounds, yeast extract was used as elicitor. This elicitor induced a remarkable increase in total polyphenol content, with chlorogenic acid, procyanidin B2, and epicatechin being the most abundant. The antioxidant potential of extracts from the callus cultures was investigated and results showed that the use of the elicitor improved the protective antioxidant effect of the extracts on UVA-stressed keratinocytes. Furthermore, the extracts from the elicited callus cultures were able to speed up the process of healing after 24 h. Our results suggest that extracts obtained from elicited apple callus cultures can represent a promising alternative to chemically synthesised bioactive compounds for their use in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and cosmetic industries.

A comparative study of Ghanaian propolis extracts: Chemometric analysis of the chromatographic profile, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic potential and identification of active constituents

Diabetes is a disease characterized by high post-prandial glucose levels, which lead to other complications such as peripheral end organ damage. The use of enzyme inhibitors in the management of Type-2 diabetes ensure the control of blood glucose levels via the control of carbohydrate metabolism. The use of standard agents such as acarbose is associated with unwanted side effects hence the need to investigate other sources of antihyperglycemic agents. Propolis, a natural substance from bees, possesses diverse biological activities including antioxidant, antimicrobial and antidiabetic properties. However, the phytochemical content of propolis and its extracts may vary depending on the geographical area, the solvent of extraction and type of bees. This study represents the first attempt to compare different extracts of propolis from the same source in sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, the effect of solvent and source of Ghanaian propolis on parameters such as the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, chromatographic profile, antioxidant and α-amylase inhibitory effects were investigated with the aim of identifying and characterizing the most promising extract, which could be of direct or indirect benefit in the management of Type-2 diabetes.Combinations of water, ethanol-water and ethanol extracts were prepared from propolis from three regions. Phytochemical screening was performed on the extracts after which the Folin Ciocalteu method and aluminum chloride colorimetric assay were used to estimate the total phenolic and flavonoid contents respectively. Antioxidant potential of extracts was estimated using DPPH and phosphomolybdenum assays. In-vitro α-amylase inhibition assay was used to investigate hypoglycemic effect of the extracts. Statistical tools such as ANOVA, principal component analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis employed to determine sources of variations within the data obtained, to classify the extracts based on activity and to predict the most effective extract. This extract was then subjected to UHPLC-Q-TOF MS/MS and GC–MS techniques to characterize the constituents.Chemometric analysis of the data obtained showed that the variations in the data could be explained by both propolis source and extraction solvent. Though ethanol extracts generally contained more constituents, the more notable activities were in the ethanol-water extracts. The ethanol-water extract of Bono East propolis (EWBE) was the most potent DPPH radical scavenger (IC50 of 149.37 ± 2.90 µg/mL as compared to 116.60 ± 0.93 µg/mL GAE standard). It was also one of the three extracts which were more potent than acarbose (369.89 µg/mL) in the α-amylase inhibition assay. The predominant constituents from the LC-MS dereplication of EWBE were caffeic acid and flavonoid derivatives whilst 5,5-dimethyl-1-oxa-5 silacyclononanone-9 was the most significant active constituent identified through the GC–MS analysis. The identified constituents are known to have strong antioxidant and antidiabetic properties.The effects of source and solvent of extraction on the biological and physicochemical properties of propolis in Ghana have been quantified using statistical tools. The combined biological effects of propolis suggest a possible role in their usage in the management of type-2-diabetes and its related complications. Ethanol-water extracts were the most promising with EWBE showing the strongest antihyperglycemic activity. Such extracts represent leads towards further research into toxicity and formulation in order to develop safe and useful products for the management of type-2 diabetes.

Phytochemical, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potentials of Azadirachta indica Leaf Extract Using Bacteria Isolated from Polluted Water as Test Organisms

Aims: Globally, there is continuous emergence of infectious pathogens. Therefore, there is a need to search for new drug molecules of plant origin such as A. indica which is commonly grown in Nigeria. This study was aimed at evaluating the antioxidant and antimicrobial potentials of the leaf extract of A. indica and determining its bioactive molecules.
 Study Design: This was an in-vitro laboratory study.
 Place and Duration of Study: This research was carried out at the Microbial Resources Research Laboratory (MRRL), Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso Nigeria from April 2021 to January 2023.
 Methodology: Collected fresh leaves of A. indica were destalked, air dried at 27oC for 10 days, and finally grounded. The dried powders were extracted by maceration using four (4) solvents namely: water (aqueous), methanol, ethyl-acetate, and n-hexane. The leaf extracts were assessed for their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential. Bioactive molecules present in the leaf extract were determined by Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
 Results: It was observed that leaf extracts of A. indica possess bioactive molecules such as Phytol which is over 50% of the total biomolecules present. These biomolecules are responsible for the antimicrobial and antioxidant potentials of the extract. The ABTS and DPPH radicals scavenging activities ranged from 24.51 to 90.32 % and 31.79 to 79.59 % respectively. These extracts can be used to mop up free radicals which have damaging effects on the cells of the body. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extract for each of the test bacteria isolates varied between 0.05 to 0.8 mg/ml. Thus, the leaf extract of A. indica is a reservoir of bioactive molecules which can be used for novel drug synthesis and discovery.
 Conclusion: Thus, leaf extracts of A. indica contain potent biomolecules which can be harnessed for therapeutic use.

Antimicrobial and antioxidant potential from Piper marginatum roots

This is the first report of the antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of extract from Piper marginatum roots. The extract showed highest antioxidant activity with an EC50 of 47.3 ± 0.80 µg/mL and a total phenolic content of 42.7 ± 1.10 mg GAE/g. The extract exhibited strong antimicrobial activity with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 250, 250 and 125 µg/mL for the bacteria Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and fungus Mycobacterium smegmatis. Antimicrobial activity was attributed to (E,E)-N-Isobutyl -2,4-octadienamide and (E,E)-N-Isobutyl-2,4-decadienamide amides isolated as major compounds of the roots. Structural elucidation of the two amides was determined based on the interpretation of their IR, UV, MS, 1H and 13C NMR spectra. The results contribute significantly to the development of a herbal remedies based on P. marginatum roots.

Improvement in the Biosynthesis of Antioxidant-Active Metabolites in In Vitro Cultures of Isatis tinctoria (Brassicaceae) by Biotechnological Methods/Elicitation and Precursor Feeding.

This study aimed to establish the in vitro shoot culture of Isatis tinctoria L. and its ability to produce antioxidant bioactive compounds. The Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium variants, containing different concentrations (0.1-2.0 mg/L) of benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) were tested. Their influence on the growth of biomass, accumulation of phenolic compounds, and antioxidant potential was evaluated. To improve the phenolic content, agitated cultures (MS 1.0/1.0 mg/L BAP/NAA) were treated with different elicitors, including the following: Methyl Jasmonate, CaCl2, AgNO3, and yeast, as well as with L-Phenylalanine and L-Tyrosine-precursors of phenolic metabolites. The total phenolic content (TPC) of hydroalcoholic extracts (MeOH 70%) obtained from the biomass grown in vitro was determined spectrophotometrically; phenolic acids and flavonoids were quantified by RP-HPLC. Moreover, the antioxidant potential of extracts was examined through the DPPH test, the reducing power, and the Fe2+ chelating assays. The biomass extracts obtained after 72 h of supplementation with Tyr (2 g/L), as well as after 120 and 168 h with Tyr (1 g/L), were found to be the richest in TPC (49.37 ± 0.93, 58.65 ± 0.91, and 60.36 ± 4.97 mg GAE/g extract, respectively). Whereas among the elicitors, the highest TPC achieved was with CaCl2 (20 and 50 mM 24 h), followed by MeJa (50 and 100 µM, 120 h). The HPLC of the extracts led to the identification of six flavonoids and nine phenolic acids, with vicenin-2, isovitexin, syringic, and caffeic acids being the most abundant compounds. Notably, the amount of all flavonoids and phenolic acids detected in the elicited/precursor feeding biomass was higher than that of the leaves of the parental plant. The best chelating activity was found with the extract of biomass fed with Tyrosine 2 g/L, 72 h (IC50 0.27 ± 0.01 mg/mL), the strongest radical scavenging (DPPH test) for the extract obtained from biomass elicited with CaCl2 50 mM, after 24 h of incubation (25.14 ± 0.35 mg Trolox equivalents (TE)/g extract). In conclusion, the in vitro shoot culture of I. tinctoria supplemented with Tyrosine, as well as MeJa and/or CaCl2, could represent a biotechnological source of compounds with antioxidant properties.

Exploring the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Wilckia maritima: In Vitro and In Silico Investigations

This research aimed to assess the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of methanol extract of Wilckia maritima, a plant belonging to the family Brassicaceae, which is enriched with natural antioxidants. Qualitative phytochemical studies showed the presence of numerous compounds including glycosides, phenols, triterpenoids, and GC-MS studies revealed the presence of 35 bioactive components, including n-hexadecanoic acid (26.96%), 9,12,15 octadecatrienoic acid (cis) (25.52%), 3,5 di-hydroxy-6-methyl 2,3-di-hydro-4-pyran 4-one (14.35%), and 3-tertiary butyl-4-hydroxy-anisol (11.68%) as major components, which are thought to be responsible for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials of methanol extract of W. maritima., flavonoids, steroids, tannins, and saponins. The antioxidant potential of the extract was determined by performing various assays, including DPPH free radical scavenging, ferrous reducing, and hydrogen peroxide assays, which showed significant percentage inhibition (83.55 ± 0.89, 79.40 ± 1.17, and 81.26 ± 0.36%, respectively) as compared to ascorbic acid (standard). The extract also exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity with percentage inhibition 65.66 ± 0.42% compared to standard ibuprofen, which showed 73.20 ± 0.21% inhibition. In vivo analysis further confirmed this anti-inflammatory potential of the extract, showing a 75.55 ± 0.11% reduction in edema at 300 mg/kg as compared with standard diclofenac sodium 70.27 ± 0.012%. Moreover, in silico investigations revealed that the phytocompounds in W. maritima exhibited excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics, which could provide novel biological molecules for target receptors. Overall, our findings suggest that W. maritima can be utilized as a potential resource of natural compounds with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory potential, with promising therapeutic effect in relieving various ailments related to inflammatory response.

In vitro antioxidant activity and electro analytic approach on Indigofera tirunelvelica Sanjappa

Therapeutic property of any plant can be attributed to its antioxidant activity. The objective of this study was to examine the antioxidant activity and electrical conductivity of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Indigofera tirunelvelica leaves. The antioxidant potential was determined by different in vitro assays like DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, Nitric oxide and superoxide radical scavenging. Conductivity experiments indicated a direct correlation between the conductivity and antioxidant potential of the extracts. Further it was found that the antioxidant activity was concentration dependent and could be linked to the existence of charge carriers as shown by the dielectric experiments. Antioxidant activity may be an indicator of the secondary metabolites which was revealed by the Phytochemical analysis done earlier. All the assays revealed that the antioxidant potential of the aqueous extract was slightly higher than the ethanolic extract.

In Vitro Screening for Anti-Acetylcholinesterase and Antioxidant Activities of Hottonia palustris L. Extracts and Their Unusual Flavonoids.

Hottonia palustris L. is from the genus Hottonia (Primulaceae), and the understanding of its phytochemical and pharmacological properties is limited. In this study, the use of chromatographic techniques led to the isolation of a further eleven compounds, including three new flavonoids: 2',5-dihydroxyflavone 2'-O-β-glucopyranoside, 5,6-dihydroxyflavone 6-O-(6"-O-glucopyranosyl)-β-glucopyranoside (hottonioside A), and 4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone 7-O-(2"-O-β-glucuronide)-β-glucopyranoside. Their structures were determined using extensive 1D and 2D NMR data and mass spectrometry (HRMS). The qualitative assessment of the chemical composition of the investigated extracts and fractions was performed using the LC-HRMS technique. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential of extracts, fractions, and compounds and their ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase were also evaluated. Thus, we may conclude that the observed biological effects are the result of the presence of many biologically active compounds, of which dibenzoylmethane is the most active. Therefore, H. palustris is a source of substances with desirable properties in the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

In vitro protective effect of Heterothalamus alienus against the Philodryas patagoniensis venom

BackgroundTeas from aerial parts of Heterothalamus alienus are traditionally used in Southern Brazil for the treatment of snakebite. PurposeIn this study, we evaluated the protective effect of aqueous extract of H. alienus (ExHa) against Philodryas patagoniensis venom (PpV). Chemical composition, as well as antioxidant and toxicological potential of the ExHa were also evaluated. MethodsColorimetric assays characterized the profile and antioxidant potential of extract after decoction of its leaves and lyophilization. In addition, HPLC-DAD allowed to identify some compounds. We used the Artemia salina model and canine leukocytes to test the toxicological potential of ExHa. Finally, in vitro protective effect of ExHa against PpV was verified in mononuclear leukocytes. ResultsExHa presented high polyphenols levels, among these, rutin, quercetin, and ferulic acid. Moreover, the extract showed antioxidant activity (TAC, DPPH•, ABTS•+), including decreased ferrous-induced lipoperoxidation in brain and liver tissues. Contributing to these data, ExHa was nontoxic in A. salina (LD50 = 5,140 µg. ml−1) but increased cell death and generated genotoxicity from 100 µg. ml−1. Hence, we used 10 µg. ml−1 to evaluate antivenom activity, which protected the cells against cytotoxicity triggered by PpV. ConclusionWe conclude that ExHa presents antioxidant capacity, which can be related to protection against PpV. This fact opens new perspectives for the use of teas or similar in the treatment adjacent to antivenom against snakebite. However, its high concentrations can be toxic, and we must ensure its safe use.

Algerian Bunium incrassatum Seeds: Effects of Extraction Solvent Polarity on Phenolic Profile and Antioxidant Activity

Bunium incrassatum, vernacularly called ‘Talghouda’ is one of the most important plant species of the traditional Algerian pharmacopeia, used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Despite of its benefits, it still remains a scientifically neglected species, especially with regards to the phytochemical profile. The present study aims to evaluate the antioxidant potentials of Bunium incrassatum seeds’ extracts prepared in different solvents with increasing polarities. The antioxidant potentials of extracts were measured using DPPH and β-carotene Bleaching assays. Total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin contents were also spectrophotometrically determined. The phenolic profiles were screened through RP-HPLC. Methanol extract showed the highest DPPH scavenging potential and also the highest inhibitory potential against β-carotene bleaching (IC50=0.15±0.02 and 0.41±0.03 mg/mL, respectively). Thirteen phenolic compounds were identified, a flavanol (catechin), two flavonols (kaempferol, quercetin), two flavanones (hesperetin, naringenin) and eight phenolic acids: caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, sinapic acid, and syringic acid. These results support the few previous studies showing that Bunium incrassatum, as an endemic species, is considered as a good source of bioactive compounds that requires further investigations.

Evaluation of the antioxidant potentials of extract and fractions of Vitex doniana fruit and identification of the bioactive metabolites using HPLC-DAD-MS analysis

Isoflavones and flavonoids in general found in fruits and vegetable act as natural antioxidants. This study was aimed at screening the isoflavone-rich fractions of Vitex doniana fruit extract for antioxidant activity using in vitro and in vivo models. The ethyl acetate and butanol fractions were screened for in vitro antioxidant activity by DPPH free radical scavenging and FRAP (Fe3+ Reducing Antioxidant Power) assays using ascorbic acid as standard. In vivo antioxidant activity was also tested against carbon tetrachloride-induced toxicity in mice using carbon tetrachloride (4 mL/kg) and silymarin (100 mg/kg) as standard. The ethyl acetate fraction and butanol Vacuum Liquid Chromatography (VLC) sub-fractions were subjected to High Performance Liquid Chromatography–Diode Array Detector (HPLC-DAD) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analyses. The ethyl acetate and butanol fractions inhibited DPPH radicals with an IC50 of 897 µg/mL and 2809.38 µg/mL respectively. Both fractions also showed mild FRAP result with EC50 of 1401 µg/mL and 7051 µg/mL respectively. The fractions produced significant decrease (P < 0.05) in ALP levels only while ethyl acetate fraction caused a significant reduction in the value of only malondialdehyde. Both fractions also increased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD). HPLC-DAD analysis led to the detection of cinnamic acid, protocatechuic acid and two isoflavones daidzein and genistein. Further LC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of the isoflavones tectorigenin, 5-O-methylgenistein, and 5-O-methyltectorigenin, among other flavonoids, peonidin, 5-methylpeonidin, methylmalvidin and kaempferol-3-O-(2''galloyl)-glucopyranoside. The detected isoflavones and other flavonoids may contribute to the observed mild in vitro and good in vivo antioxidant activity of V. doniana fruit extract and fractions.

Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Methanolic Extracts from Different Parts of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni Cultivated in Bulgaria

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a plant species which is frequently used not only as a sweetener, but also for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Nowadays, there are a large number of studies on the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of S. rebaudiana leaves, but there are almost no data about the antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of extracts from the other parts of S. rebaudiana. The aim of the present study is to provide data of the antibacterial and antioxidant potential of methanolic extracts from different parts of S. rebaudiana (flowers, leaves, stems, rhizomes, and tubers) cultivated in Bulgaria. Antibacterial activity of the extracts against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli was evaluated by agar well diffusion method, rutin content - by HPLC method, total phenolic content and radical scavenging potential - by UV-Vis analysis. S. rebaudiana extracts demonstrated antibacterial activity mainly against S. aureus - flower extracts expressed the highest activity, followed by the leaf and stem extracts. Only flower and leaf extracts demonstrated very low antibacterial activity against B. cereus. S. rebaudiana extracts did not show any antibacterial activity against E. coli. Methanolic extracts of this plant are rich in antioxidants. The highest concentrations of rutin and total phenols were found in the rhizomes of the plants, followed by the leaves, tubers, flowers, and stems, which corresponded to the radical scavenging potential of the same plant part. Comparisons between Trolox equivalents and gallic acid equivalents in different parts of S. rebaudiana on one hand, and Trolox equivalents and rutin concentration on the other hand showed a positive dependence and high values of the Pearson correlation - 0.9612 and 0.9707, respectively. The most important part of S. rebaudiana with medicinal significance (the leaves) has both comparatively good antibacterial activity and high antioxidant content, although the flowers and rhizomes expressed higher antibacterial and antioxidant activity, respectively. The experimental results imply that the cultivation area and climatic conditions of Bulgaria are very suitable for cultivation of S. rebaudiana plants with high content of antioxidants.

The influence of different wavelengths of LED light on the production of glucosinolates and phenolic compounds and the antioxidant potential in in vitro cultures of Nasturtium officinale (watercress)

Cultures of Nasturtium officinale were cultivated in vitro under illumination with different wavelengths of light-emitting diode (LED) light (white LED light—WLED, blue light—B, red light—R, 70% red and 30% blue light—RB, 50% green, 35% red and 15% blue light—RBG, 50% yellow, 35% red and 15% blue light—RBY, 50% far red, 35% red and 15% blue light—RBfR, 50% UV, 35% red and 15% blue light—RBUV, darkness—D), and under white fluorescent light (WF)—control conditions. The study investigated the influence of the applied lighting conditions on biomass growth and the production of glucosinolates, phenolic compounds, as well as photosynthetic pigments, and soluble sugars. The study showed a significant beneficial effect of the RBG light on biomass growth (Gi = 11.81 after 20 days) and the production of glucosinolates. The total glucosinolate content under these conditions increased 5.8 and 1.4 times in comparison with the WF light and D condition, respectively, reaching 237.92 mg 100 g−1 DW. The production of phenolic compounds, sugars, and photosynthetic pigments was comparable to the production under the control conditions. The antioxidant potential of extracts from the cultivated biomass was assessed by the CUPRAC, DPPH, and FRAP assays. Extracts obtained from the biomass of cultures grown under the RBG light had an antioxidant potential similar to that of the control cultures. This is the first report providing evidence of the stimulating effect of light quality on the biomass yield and production of glucosinolates by N. officinale microshoot cultures in vitro.

Pharmacological investigation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of leaves and branches extracts from Plinia cauliflora (Jaboticaba)

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAmong all native Brazilian plant species, Plinia cauliflora (DC.) Kausel (Jaboticaba), is well known for producing “superfruits”, due to their high phenolic content and antioxidant property. The fruit has astringent characteristics, and it is popularly known for the treatment of diarrhea, rash, and intestinal inflammation. However, there are only a few studies on the use of leaves and branches of this species in the literature, mainly to treat oxidative stress and inflammation. Aim of the studyThe present study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of leaves and branches extracts from P. cauliflora. Material and methodsThe phytochemical analysis of P. cauliflora extracts was performed by the total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin dosage method. Moreover, the compounds were identified by HPLC-MS-Q-TOF. Antioxidant capacity was determined by DPPH, β-carotene/linoleic acid system, MDA formation, and phosphomolybdenum assays. In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of P. cauliflora were evaluated by the reduction of nitric oxide in the J774A.1 cell line and inhibition of ear edema in mice, respectively. ResultsThe ethanolic extract of the leaves exhibited greater flavonoid content whereas the ethanolic extract of the branches showed higher tannins content. Twenty-two and seventeen compounds were identified by HPLC-MS-Q-TOF in the leaves and branches, respectively, being tellimagrandin I, castalagin, and valoneic acid dilactone reported for the first time in P. cauliflora. The antioxidant potential of extracts was confirmed through different oxidation pathways from oxidizing radicals, which might be related to the presence of phenolic compounds. For the anti-inflammatory assay, the leaves and branches extracts showed promising results, with a reduction of nitric oxide ear edema inhibition around 95% and 80%, respectively. ConclusionsHerein, the great biological potential of leaves and branches extracts from P. cauliflora was highlighted. These parts of the plant are underused and poorly reported in the literature, especially for the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

A comprehensive phytochemical, biological, toxicological and molecular docking evaluation of Suaeda fruticosa (L.) Forssk.: An edible halophyte medicinal plant

Suaeda fruticosa is an edible medicinal halophyte known for its traditional uses. In this study, methanol and dichloromethane extracts of S. fruticosa were explored for phytochemical, biological and toxicological parameters. Total phenolic and flavonoid constituents were determined by using standard aluminum chloride and Folin-Ciocalteu methods, and UHPLC-MS analysis of methanol extract was performed for tentative identification of secondary metabolites. Different standard methods like DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and metal chelation assays were utilized to find out the antioxidant potential of extracts. Enzyme inhibition studies of extracts against acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, tyrosinase, α-amylase and, α-glucosidase enzymes were also studied. Likewise, the cytotoxicity was also assessed against MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and DU-145 cell lines. The higher phenolic and flavonoids contents were observed in methanol extracts which can be correlated to its higher radical scavenging potential. Similarly, 11 different secondary metabolites were tentatively identified by UHPLC profiling. Both the extract showed significant inhibition against all the enzymes except for α-glucosidase. Moreover, docking studies were also performed against the tested enzymes. In the case of cytotoxicity, both the samples were found moderately toxic against the tested cell lines. This plant can be explored further for its potential therapeutic and edible uses.

Physicochemical characterization of oil, antioxidant potential, and phenolic profile of seeds isolated from Tunisian pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cultivars.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) seeds oils (PSO) from three Tunisian varieties namely Jebali, Testouri, and Gabsi were extracted by ultrasonic-assisted extraction and analyzed for their physicochemical properties, fatty acids (FA) profile, and sterol composition. PSO of Gabsi and Testouri showed the best quality indexes in terms of peroxide and acid values and the highest oxidative stability index was observed for PSO of Gabsi ecotype (2.534 hr). Polyphenol content of PSO of Gabsi ecotype (886.909mg/kg) was roughly 3 and 23 times higher than that of Jebali and Testouri ecotypes, respectively. Twelve FAs were identified by GC/FID. Punicic acid was the major compounds ranged from 81.53% (Testouri) to 86.41% (Gabsi). The unsaturated/saturated FA ratios of PSO were 14.53, 15.95, and 18.68, respectively for Gabsi, Testouri, and Jebali, respectively. Phytosterols were also identified and β-sitosterol was the major compound in PSO. In addition, the phytochemical and antioxidant properties of phenolic extracts obtained from pomegranate seeds residues were investigated. Pomegranate seeds extract (PSE) of Gabsi cultivar showed the highest content of polyphenols (64.762mg CAE/g) and flavonoids (7.127mg RE/g). Antioxidant potential of extracts was performed using DPPH test and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Results revealed that Gabsi cultivar was the most reactive extract with EC50 of 0.105mg/mL for DPPH test and 40.622mg AA/g for TAC. Phenolic profiles of PSE were also investigated. Results showed the importance of cultivar selection in the potential use of bioactive compounds of seeds as nutraceutical ingredients in food and chemical industries. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Three Tunisian pomegranate cultivars namely Jebali, Testouri, and Gabsi were investigated for their seeds oil and phenolic composition. Pomegranate seeds oil (PSO) are rich in bioactive polyunsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols that can be of interest in several food and chemical industrial applications. Moreover, pomegranate seeds extracts are a natural source of antioxidant components, such as phenolic compounds, that can be used by the pharmaceutical industry as promising nutraceutical ingredients. The obtained results can be used to provide guidance on cultivar selection during industrial applications.

In vitro digestibility and stability of encapsulated yerba mate extract and its impact on yogurt properties

The development of ready-to-eat foods containing bioactive extracts represents an important step to improve food consumption. This study aimed to develop a yogurt containing an encapsulated bioactive yerba mate extract. For this, the lyophilized extract was protected through encapsulation in solid lipid particles (SLPs) of beeswax. An encapsulation efficiency (EE) greater than 90% was achieved with an extract content higher than 20%. The FTIR spectrum of the capsules’ wall material, indicated that beeswax efficiently encapsulated the yerba mate extract. The extract antioxidant potential was protected for 45 days under cold storage, and the encapsulation maintained the viability of the yogurt lactic acid bacteria. The increase in free fatty acids from seven to 33% during in vitro digestion indicated the capsule rupture during the digestion process. Moreover, the extract encapsulation maintained viable lactic acid bacteria in yogurt. The addition of SLPs did not affect the acceptability of the yogurt or the consumers’ intention to buy the product. However, the score attributed to the product evaluators was surprisingly low and portrayed the consumer's preference for foods with added sugar. This work introduced a natural, ready-to-eat and health-promoting food product containing SLP-protected antioxidant compounds. The addition of compounds encapsulated in foods is promising and can benefit consumers.