Artemia Salina Nauplii Research Articles

Antifouling activity and ecotoxicological profile of the cyanobacterial oxadiazine nocuolin A

Pursuing effective and biocompatible natural compounds to supplant current biocidal antifouling (AF) technologies remains crucial and challenging. Among natural products hosts, cyanobacteria are recognized as producers of bioactive secondary metabolites that are underexplored in terms of anti-biofilm and AF potential. Nocuolin A, a natural oxadiazine previously isolated and known to be produced by different cyanobacterial strains, has demonstrated bioactive potential, particularly against tumor cell lines. Considering this potential and its exquisite chemical structure, here nocuolin A was investigated as a potential natural AF agent through an integrative approach including AF bioactivity testing across distinct levels of biological organization, mode of action assessment, ecotoxicity evaluation, and ecological risk predictions. Nocuolin A was found to inhibit the settlement of mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) plantigrades (EC50 = 3.905 μM) while showing no toxicity to this biofouling species (LC50 > 100 μM). Additionally, while exhibiting no inhibitory activity against the growth of five marine biofilm-forming bacterial strains, it significantly suppressed the growth of the marine biofilm-forming diatom Navicula sp. (EC50 = 1.561 μM), and had a lethal effect on this diatom species (>3.1 μM). The AF targets of nocuolin A on mussel plantigrades revealed no correlation with acetylcholinesterase and tyrosinase metabolic processes; however, proteins involved in oxidative stress, muscle regulation, and energy production were highlighted. The results also provide insights into the ecological risk of nocuolin A, including its ecotoxicity against Artemia salina nauplii (LC50 = 2.480 μM), Amphibalanus amphitrite nauplii (LC50 = 0.0162 μM), and Danio rerio embryos (LC50 = 0.0584 μM). When matching these results with simulated environmental values, nocuolin A was deemed a considerable threat to the ecosystems. While this research highlights the AF activity of nocuolin A, it also emphasizes the potential adverse environmental impact when applied in preventive coatings.

Development and Evaluation of the Biological Activities of a Plain Mucoadhesive Hydrogel as a Potential Vehicle for Oral Mucosal Drug Delivery.

This study aimed to develop HGs based on cationic guar gum (CGG), polyethylene glycol (PEG), propylene glycol (PG), and citric acid (CA) using a 2k factorial experimental design to optimize their properties. HGs were characterized through FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The biological activities of HGs were determined by evaluating their mucoadhesive capacity and antibacterial activity in vitro, whereas their toxicity was analyzed using Artemia salina nauplii as an in vivo model. Results revealed that HGs were successfully optimized for their viscosity, pH, and sensory properties, and it was observed that varying concentrations of PEG-75 did not influence them. Through SEM analyses, it was noted that increased levels of PEG-75 resulted in HGs with distinct porosity and textures, whereas FTIR and Raman spectroscopy exhibited representative peaks of the raw materials used during the synthesis process. TGA studies indicated the thermal stability of HGs, as they presented degradation patterns at 100 and 300 °C. The synthesized HGs exhibited similar mucoadhesion kinetic profiles, demonstrating a displacement factor at an equilibrium of 0.57 mm/mg at 5 min. The antibacterial activity of HGs was appraised as poor against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria due to their MIC90 values (>500 μg/mL). Regarding A. salina, treatment with HGs neither decreased their viability nor induced morphological changes. The obtained results suggest the suitability of CGG/PEG HGs for oral mucosa drug delivery and expand the knowledge about their mucoadhesive capacity, antibacterial potential, and in vivo biocompatibility.

Kalanchoe tomentosa: Phytochemical Profiling, and Evaluation of Its Biological Activities In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico.

In this work, the leaves of K. tomentosa were macerated with hexane, chloroform, and methanol, respectively. The phytochemical profiles of hexane and chloroform extracts were unveiled using GC/MS, whereas the chemical composition of the methanol extract was analyzed using UPLC/MS/MS. The antibacterial activity of extracts was determined against gram-positive and gram-negative strains through the minimal inhibitory concentration assay, and in silico studies were implemented to analyze the interaction of phytoconstituents with bacterial peptides. The antioxidant property of extracts was assessed by evaluating their capacity to scavenge DPPH, ABTS, and H2O2 radicals. The toxicity of the extracts was recorded against Artemia salina nauplii and Caenorhabditis elegans nematodes. Results demonstrate that the hexane and chloroform extracts contain phytosterols, triterpenes, and fatty acids, whereas the methanol extract possesses glycosidic derivatives of quercetin and kaempferol together with sesquiterpene lactones. The antibacterial performance of extracts against the cultured strains was appraised as weak due to their MIC90 values (>500 μg/mL). As antioxidants, treatment with extracts executed high and moderate antioxidant activities within the range of 50-300 μg/mL. Extracts did not decrease the viability of A. salina, but they exerted a high toxic effect against C. elegans during exposure to treatment. Through in silico modeling, it was recorded that the flavonoids contained in the methanol extract can hamper the interaction of the NAM/NAG peptide, which is of great interest since it determines the formation of the peptide wall of gram-positive bacteria. This study reports for the first time the biological activities and phytochemical content of extracts from K. tomentosa and proposes a possible antibacterial mechanism of glycosidic derivatives of flavonoids against gram-positive bacteria.

Peptide-rich extracts from leaves of <i>Newbouldia laevis</i> (P. Beauv.) Seem. ex. Bureau (Bignoniaceae) with antimicrobial and brine shrimp lethality activities

Global concerns over antibiotic-resistant microbial pathogens have spurred a quest for innovative, stable, and target-specific molecules like bioactive peptides. This study evaluates the antimicrobial properties and toxicity of peptide-enriched extracts from Newbouldia laevis leaves. Aqueous extraction, thin layer chromatography (TLC), and Phenomenex's Stratum Giant Tube C18-E were used to obtain partly purified fraction (PPF) and crude peptide extracts (CPE). Antimicrobial inhibitory capacity was determined using p-INT dye, with gentamicin and fluconazole as standards. Cytotoxicity was assessed with Artemia salina nauplii. Microsoft Excel and GraphPad Prism 5 was used in analysing the data. Peptides were detected in CPE and PPF via TLC and modified G-250. PPF demonstrated more efficacy (IC50: 5.89μg/mL to 33.94μg/mL) against bacteria and fungi, with low toxicity (LC50: 5964.87μg/mL for PPFand 1094.20μg/mL for CPE) in the Brine shrimp lethality assay. The study presents the discovery of bioactive peptides from the leaves of Newbouldia laevis. Consequently, bioactive peptides extracted from this plant hold potential as foundational compounds for the development of novel broad-spectrum antibiotics aimed at combating microbial infections.

Toxicity of UV Filter Benzophenone-3 in Brine Shrimp Nauplii (Artemia salina) and Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Embryos.

The benzophenone (BP) family, including oxybenzone (BP-3), a prevalent sunscreen ingredient and environmental contaminant, has raised concerns since the year 2005. This study investigated oxybenzone toxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio) eleutheroembryos and brine shrimp (Artemia salina) nauplii, focusing on the LC50 and developmental impacts. Zebrafish embryos (0.100-1.50 mg/L BP-3, 96 h) and A. salina (0.100-5.00 mg/L BP-3, 48 h) were tested with ultrasound-assisted emulsified liquid-phase microextraction (UA-ELPME) used for zebrafish tissue analysis. HPLC-DAD determined BP-3 concentrations (highest: 0.74 ± 0.13 mg/L). Although no significant zebrafish embryo mortality or hatching changes occurred, developmental effects were evident. Lethal concentrations were determined (A. salina LC50 at 24 h = 3.19 ± 2.02 mg/L; D. rerio embryos LC50 at 24 h = 4.19 ± 3.60 mg/L), with malformations indicating potential teratogenic effects. A. salina displayed intestinal tract alterations and D. rerio embryos exhibited pericardial edema and spinal deformities. These findings highlight oxybenzone's environmental risks, posing threats to species and ecosystem health.

Lanthanide-Doped ZnO Nanoparticles: Unraveling Their Role in Cytotoxicity, Antioxidant Capacity, and Nanotoxicology.

This study used a sonochemical synthesis method to prepare (La, Sm)-doped ZnO nanoparticles (NPs). The effect of incorporating these lanthanide elements on the structural, optical, and morphological properties of ZnO-NPs was analyzed. The cytotoxicity and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation capacity of ZnO-NPs were evaluated against breast (MCF7) and colon (HT29) cancer cell lines. Their antioxidant activity was analyzed using a DPPH assay, and their toxicity towards Artemia salina nauplii was also evaluated. The results revealed that treatment with NPs resulted in the death of 10.559-42.546% and 18.230-38.643% of MCF7 and HT29 cells, respectively. This effect was attributed to the ability of NPs to downregulate ROS formation within the two cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. In the DPPH assay, treatment with (La, Sm)-doped ZnO-NPs inhibited the generation of free radicals at IC50 values ranging from 3.898 to 126.948 μg/mL. Against A. salina nauplii, the synthesized NPs did not cause death nor induce morphological changes at the tested concentrations. A series of machine learning (ML) models were used to predict the biological performance of (La, Sm)-doped ZnO-NPs. Among the designed ML models, the gradient boosting model resulted in the greatest mean absolute error (MAE) (MAE 9.027, R2 = 0.86). The data generated in this work provide innovative insights into the influence of La and Sm on the structural arrangement and chemical features of ZnO-NPs, together with their cytotoxicity, antioxidant activity, and in vivo toxicity.

Biological Activities of Chamaecyparis lawsoniana (A.Murray bis) Parl. and Thuja plicata Donn ex D.Don Essential Oils: Toxicity, Genotoxicity, Antigenotoxicity, and Antimicrobial Activity

Essential oils (EOs) derived from evergreen conifer trees are recognized as complex sources of agents with various biological activities. In this study, the biological activities of the EOs derived from Chamaecyparis lawsoniana (A.Murray bis) Parl. (CLEO) and Thuja plicata Donn ex D.Don (TPEO) were investigated. The third instar larvae of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster were used as a model organism to determine the in vivo toxicity, genotoxicity, and antigenotoxicity of five different concentrations of CLEO and TPEO, ranging from 0.19% to 3%. Artemia salina was used for acute toxicity assessment and determination of LC50 after 24 h and 48 h. The antimicrobial activity of the CLEO and TPEO was tested against fourteen bacterial and two fungal strains using the microdilution method. The larvicidal activity and developmental time of D. melanogaster increased as the concentrations of the EOs rose. CLEO and TPEO produced a dose-dependent increase in DNA damage compared with the negative control. Both oils, at concentrations up to 1.5%, demonstrated the ability to reduce the genotoxic effect induced by ethyl methanesulfonate, with a reduction rate exceeding 60%. CLEO and TPEO were highly toxic against Artemia salina nauplii. The results indicate that the tested EOs act as antimicrobial agents against some pathogenic bacteria and fungi. CLEO and TPEO show promising potential as a source of antimicrobial and antigenotoxic agents and as potential biocides against pest insects and arthropods.

Phytochemical Study, Biotechnological Applications and Experimental Evaluation of the Pharmacological Quality of Tamarix Africana Stems Fractions

Since antiquity, phytomedicine played a crucial role and many comprehensive texts documenting the medicinal impact of plants were discovered during many civilization eras, suggesting folk medicine is the foundation of modern medicine. This work look into the phytochemical composition, as well as the pharmacological properties, of Tamarix Africana stems organic fractions. The phytochemical study was carried out using phytochemical screening method while phenolic, flavonoids, condensed and hydrolysable tannins contents by spectrophotometric approach. The antioxidant assay was measured using five approaches. Anti-diabetic capacity was investigated with two assays. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of the extracts was tested against Artemia Salina nauplii and the photoprotective test was assessed using sun protection factor measurement (SPF). Data revealed that both extracts contained phenolic substances, the EA fraction had the highest proportion of phenolics, flavonoids, condensed and hydrolysable tannins (825.47±2.34 μg GAE/mg), (238.4±2.11 μg QE/mg), (8.44±1.05 μg CE/mg), (508.23±3.65 μg TAE/mg) respectively. The antioxidant, antidiabetic, and cytotoxicity of these extracts evolved in dose-dependent manner. EA activity was higher than MeOH extract in antioxidant tests. A moderate antidiabetic effect was expressed by EA extract, while this effect was higher for MeOH extract. A significant cytotoxic and photoprotective effects was observed for both MeOH and EA extracts when compared to the corresponding standards. This study suggests that Tamarix Africana stems has certain pharmacological effects, especially to cure disorders linked to oxidative stress, glycemia perturbation, dermatopathology and some cancers.

Musa spp. cultivars as a neutralising source against some toxic activities of Bothrops and Crotalus genus snake venoms

Accidents involving snakes from Bothrops spp. and Crotalus spp. constitute the most important cause of envenomation in Brazil and Argentina. Musa spp. (banana) have been reported to be used in popular medicine against snakebite by the members of the Canudos Settlement, located in Goiás. In this way, the aim of this work was to evaluate the antivenom effect of the Ouro (AA), Prata (AAB), Prata-anã (AAB) and Figo (ABB) cultivars against in vitro (phospholipase, coagulation and proteolytic) and in vivo (lethality and toxicity) activities caused by the venoms and toxicity (Artemia salina nauplii and Danio rerio embryos) of Musa spp. as well as the annotation of chemical compounds possibly related to these activities. From the in vitro antiophidic tests with the sap, we observed 100% inhibition of the phospholipase and coagulant activities with the cultivars Prata-anã and Figo against the venoms of B. alternatus and C. d. collineatus, B. diporus and B. pauloensis, respectively, and neutralisation of the lethality against the B. diporus venom. It was observed that the cultivars of Musa spp. did not show toxicity against Artemia salina nauplii and Danio rerio embryos. The sap analysis via HPLC-MS/MS allowed the annotation of the 13 compounds: abscisic acid, shikimic acid, citric acid, quinic acid, afzelechin, Glp-hexose, glucose, sucrose, isorhamnetin-3-O-galactoside-6-raminoside, kaempferol-3-glucoside-3-raminoside, myricetin-3-O-rutinoside, procyanidin B1 and rutin. Therefore, it can be seen that Musa spp. is a potential therapeutic agent that can act to neutralise the effects caused by snakebites.

Selective feeding protects moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita s.l.) from overloading with microplastics

Jellyfish blooms may be important bioindicators for marine ecosystem degradation, including the accumulation of microplastics in pelagic food webs. Here we show growth, respiration and filtration rates of the moon jellyfish (Aurelia aurita s.l.) when fed high concentrations (350 L−1) of zooplankton prey (Artemia salina nauplii) and polystyrene (PS) or reference particles (charcoal; size range 50–500 μm). Our controlled feeding experiments reveal that inedible particles are ingested less efficiently compared to prey (retention efficiency ~60 % for PS) and actively removed from the gastrovascular system of ephyrae and medusae. Increased metabolic demands for excretion of inedible material (up to 76.7 ± 3.1 % of ingested prey biomass) suggest that overloading with microplastics can decelerate growth (observed maxima 26.1 % d−1 and 12.6 % d−1, respectively) and reproductive rates when food is limited. Possible consequences of this selective feeding strategy in response to proceeding microplastic pollution in the world's future oceans are discussed.

ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕ НАУПЛИЙ РАЧКОВ ARTEMIA SALINA В КАЧЕСТВЕ НОСИТЕЛЯ ПРОБИОТИКОВ БАКТЕРИЙ РОДА BACILLUS В АКВАКУЛЬТУРЕ

This paper presents the results of the investigation of the effect of probiotic preparations based on Bacillus strains on Artemia salina nauplii. The use of live food is a necessary step in cultivation of many fish species, and Artemia nauplii are widely used for this purpose. It is crucial to use probiotics in aquaculture, as they can act as natural antagonists of aquatic pathogens, as well as stimulate fish growth and development. This work aims to study the immobilization of probiotic Bacillus strains on Artemia nauplii in order to develop highly effective feeds with probiotic properties for juvenile fish. Experiments on the introduction of various doses of preparations based on three probiotic strains of Bacillus into the water during the rearing of Artemia salina cysts were carried out. The number of bacteria in the water, as well as on the surface and inside the nauplii, was estimated by plating on nutrient media. It has been established that, despite the fact that brine shrimps do not feed at the orthonauplius stage, when probiotic strains are introduced into the water, bacteria are immobilized on the covers of the crustaceans; the concentration of the introduced Bacillus strains in the wipe samples taken from the nauplii surface is 1 order higher than it is for the planktonic form in the water. The introduction of bacilli at a dose of 0.0017 g/L activated the release of nauplii from cysts by 9-41 % of the control, while increasing the dose to 0.17 g/L led to a decrease in the proportion of hatched crustaceans. Thus, if the correct dosage were identified, it would make it possible to accomplish two important tasks at once: to obtain the live feed with probiotic properties for fish larvae and to increase the yield of nauplii.

Onset of zooplanktivory and optimal water flow rates for prey capture in newly settled polyps of ten Caribbean coral species

Zooplanktivory is an important source of nutrients in corals, providing up to 35% of daily metabolic energy requirements in some species. However, little is known about coral zooplanktivory shortly after larval settlement and metamorphosis. In most species it is unclear if, when and under which conditions newly settled polyps are able to capture and ingest prey. This remains a critical knowledge gap, as zooplanktivory could allow coral settlers to replenish energy reserves shortly after metamorphosis, possibly improving settler condition during one of their most vulnerable life stages. Here, we documented the onset of prey (Artemia salina nauplii) capture in ten Caribbean coral species and assessed optimal water flow rates (WFR) for prey capture in five of these species. All species initiated zooplanktivory within six days following metamorphosis, with the exception of Acropora palmata which was never observed capturing nauplii during our 20-day study. Optimal WFR for prey capture varied among species, with Favia fragum displaying maximum prey capture rates in zero flow and Diploria labyrinthiformis most effectively capturing nauplii under WFR of 5–20 cm s−1. Under each species’ optimum WFR, prey capture abilities varied considerably, with F. fragum capturing up to one nauplius every two minutes compared to one nauplius every nine minutes in Colpophyllia natans. Using these findings, we make species-specific recommendations to optimize coral husbandry and larval-based restoration practices for these ten coral species.

Protective Effect of Ultrasound-Processed Amazonian Sapota-do-Solimões (Quararibea cordata) Juice on Artemia salina Nauplii

Juice processing by non-thermal technology has been extensively studied, aiming at microbial inactivation and quality improvement. However, the knowledge about the possible toxic effects that those technologies can produce in foodstuffs due to the production of reactive oxygen species is still unknown. In this study, sapota-do-Solimões juice processed by ultrasound (2, 6, and 10 min) was evaluated by a toxicity test and protective effect through stress biomarkers (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and lipid peroxidation) using Artemia salina nauplii. The non-thermal processed juice was nontoxic to A. salina. However, the juice fibers imparted some damage to the animal’s body. The ultrasound-processed juice (2 and 6 min) decreased the A. salina mortality to 30% compared to the control assay with H2O2 where mortality was 80% after 48 h of exposure. However, after 72 h of exposure, the A. salina was entirely degraded by H2O2-induced toxicity. Furthermore, the catalase and superoxide dismutase presented the highest activity after A. salina was exposed to the unprocessed juice. Thus, sapota-do-Solimões juice processed by the ultrasound could promote a protective effect on A. salina, revealing this technology’s potential to enhance juice features without toxicity.

Antimicrobial activity and brine shrimp toxicity of propolis collected from various regions of Tanzania

Background: Propolis has been traditionally used in many countries for management of various health conditions and many previous studies have shown that it has many biological activities, including antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity. However, not much has been studied with regard to Tanzanian propolis; hence this study reports biological activity of propolis collected from 8 regions of Tanzania. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and potential cytotoxicity of propolis samples collected from various regions of Tanzania. Metet hods: Ethanolic extracts of 28 propolis samples collected from 8 regions in Tanzania were evaluated for antimicrobial activity against Gram +ve bacteria, Gram -ve bacteria and fungi, using the broth microdilution method, through which minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined. Brine shrimp lethality test was done using Artemia salina nauplii, as a preliminary indication of potential anticancer activity. Results: Out of 28 tested propolis samples, 21 exhibited antimicrobial activity on one or more microorganisms at the tested concentrations, with MICs of 1.25 – 5.0 mg/ml. Fourteen out of 28 samples were found to be toxic on brine shrimps, with a sample from Singida region being the most toxic. Conclusion: Propolis samples from various regions of Tanzania demonstrated antimicrobial activity on some microorganisms, indicating that they are a potential source of antimicrobial agents. Some samples also exhibited brine shrimp toxicity; implying that they may also be toxic on cancer cells and thus, may be a potential source of anticancer agents. They may also be a source of compounds with other biological activities.

Investigation on characterization, antifouling and cytotoxic properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles biosynthesized by a mangrove-associated actinobacterium Streptomyces olivaceus (MSU3).

The present study was undertaken to biosynthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) using a mangrove-associated actinobacterium Streptomyces olivaceus (MSU3) under in vitro conditions. The synthesized ZnONPs were structurally characterized through UV, FT-IR, TG-DTA, XRD, SEM and EDX analysis. Analysis of biosynthesized ZnONPs in UV-Vis spectroscopy showed presence of functional groups between the wavelengths 325 and 380nm. FT-IR analysis showed the functional groups, such as halo bromide (C-Br), alkyne (C≡C), carboxylic acid (O-H), nitro (N-O), fluoro (C-F), alkene (C=C) and aromatic (R-C-H) groups, respectively, within the wave numbers between 614.30 and 3074.41cm-1. The crystalline poly-dispersed quasi spherical nature of ZnONPs expressed the average particle size of 37.9nm with the 2θ values of 11.802-37.885°. Antibacterial activity of ZnONPs showed pronounced inhibitory zone (25mm) and least MIC and MBC values (125 and 250µgml-1) against Escherchia sp. In the antifouling study, ZnONPs strongly inhibited byssal thread formation in mussel Perna indica and recorded LC50 value of 424.47µgml-1. Mollusc foot adherence assay inferred that the ZnONPs effectively inhibited settlement of limpet Patella vulgata and showed minimal fouling (26.43%) at 350µgml-1 and recorded LC50 value of 218.77µgml-1. Results of anticrustacean assay depicted that, ZnONPs had registered LC50 value of 676.08µgml-1 against Artemia salina nauplii. From this study, it could be concluded that an eco-friendly approach could be used to open a new avenue for biosynthesis of ZnONPs from a mangrove associated actinobacterium S. olivaceus (MSU3) in antifouling studies.

Ethnomycological Expedition: Mycophagy, Species Listing and Toxicity Assessment of Macrofungi in Bambang Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines

In the Philippines, studies have been conducted on the taxonomic identification of wild macrofungi. However, data about the utilization, diversity, and toxicity of wild macrofungi are still insufficient especially from the mountainous hard to reach areas of the country. Therefore, this study was conducted to document the macrofungal species utilization and diversity of wild macrofungi in Barangay Buag, Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya to come up with a species listing of macrofungi in the area and screening of selected macrofungi for its teratogenic and cytotoxic activity using Danio rerio embryo and Artemia salina nauplii. Purposive sampling method was used in the collection of the macrofungi species. Results showed that 15 macrofungi were declared as utilized either as food, medicine, or as an additional source of income by the community. During the collection, 53 macrofungal samples were collected; of these eight were utilized and identified by the community with their local names. However, only seven of the eight species were identified scientifically using their morphological and molecular characteristics namely: Auricularia cornea, Schizophyllum commune, Coprinus disseminatus, Mycena sp., Ganoderma lucidum, Polyporous tenuiculus, and Volvariella volvacea. Out of the 53 macrofungal samples collected 44 (39 morphologically and 5 molecularly) were identified, 24 were identified to species level, and 20 were identified to genus level, all belonging to 20 families 32 genera and 24 species. The molecularly identified macrofungi are Ganoderma neo-japonicum, Ganoderma applanatum, Polyporus tenuiculus, Agaricus erectosquamosus and Helotiales sp. Lyophilized hot water extract (LHWE) of Ganoderma applanatum and Thelepora sp. generally exhibited teratogenic effects against developing D. rerio embryos during the teratogenicity assay. The varying treatment concentration of the LHWE of G. applanatum and Thelephora sp. significantly revealed toxic effects such as coagulation and no heartbeat, for teratogenic effects of the extract, growth retardation, scoliosis, malformation of head, and malformation of tail were the noted effects on the developing D. rerio. Furthermore, the other abnormalities that were not mentioned as teratogenic endpoints were observed such as unpigmented tail, and curved embryo body. The LHWE of G. applanatum and Thelephora sp. projected an LC50 of 979.33 ppm (mildly toxic) and 10.763 ppm (highly toxic) respectively which was based on the brine shrimp lethality assay.

Biomimetically synthesized Physalis minima fruit extract-based zinc oxide nanoparticles as eco-friendly biomaterials for biological applications

In the present study, the fruit extract of Physalis minima was used to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (Pm-ZnO NPs). The first validation of the Pm-ZnO NPs production was obtained using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer at 327 nm. Pm-ZnO NPs crystalline nature was determined as hexagonal, relating to a joint corporation of powder diffraction standards (JCPDS) 75-1526 examined in XRD analysis. FTIR spectroscopy was used to identify functional groups associated with Pm-ZnO NPs, i.e., O–H and C=N. Pm-ZnO NPs were measured to be 50-150 nm in size and spherical in form using a TEM. Arrested augmentation of Gram-positive (Enterococci faecalis) and Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) populations was recorded at a 50 μg mL-1 concentration of Pm-ZnO NPs, where the zones of inhibition were measured as 31.4 ± 2.8 mm & 33.5 ± 0.8 mm, respectively. Pm-ZnO NPs inhibited the growth of bacteria E. faecalis and P. aeruginosa at a minimum concentration of 30 μg mL-1. Inverted microscopic images revealed that Pm-ZnO NPs diminished bacterial biofilm thickness at 50 and 100 μg mL−1. The biocompatibility of Pm-ZnO NPs was examined by potential antioxidant properties (DPPH assay). Bio-toxicity values of Pm-ZnO NPs were determined as LC50 – 76.5 (68.7–86.4) μg mL-1 and LC90 – 153.4 (132.4–189.6) μg mL-1 on 48 h treatment with Artemia salina nauplii and damages in the mid-gut region were examined under a stereomicroscope. Pm-ZnO NPs exhibited photocatalytic activity at 48 h duration against methylene blue (MB) dye. Concludingly, all the reported findings suggest the utilization of these generated nanoparticles as nanomedicine against microbial infection.

Bioactive phenolic compounds and organic acids in the decoction of fruits and leaves of Schinus areiraL

Leaf and fruit decoctions of Schinus areiraL. from northwest Argentina were investigated here. Phenolic compounds and organic acids were analyzed by HPLC. Antioxidant capacity and α-glucosidase inhibition were determined by using in vitrotests. The general toxicity was assessed against Artemia salinanauplii. Hyperoside and 3 O-caffeoylquinic acid in leaf decoctions; gallic acid and catechin in fruit decoction were the major phenolic compounds. Malic and citric acids were the main organic acid quantified in the leaf and fruit decoctions, respectively. Fruit decoction had a relatively important content of shikimic acid, precursor of Tamiflu. Leaf decoction presents a greater richness in bioactive compounds with antiradical activity against DPPH●, O2●-and ●NO radicals. S. areiraleaves and fruits had α-glucosidase inhibitory activity comparable to hyperoside and acarbose. Fruit decoction was not eco-toxic; leaf decoction showed significant eco-toxic activity and could be chosen for the search of other bioactive compounds with pharmacological activity.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity, Cytotoxicity, and Phytochemical Composition of Ocimum americanum L. (Lamiaceae).

Background Herbal plants are a natural source of novel biomolecules used widely in ethnomedicine. The present study was intended to examine the antimicrobial properties, cytotoxicity, and phytoconstituents of Ocimum americanum L., an herb traditionally used by the people of Swahili (Kenya) against microbial infections. Methods The aerial parts of Ocimum americanum L. were sourced, dried, milled, and extracted using three solvents: aqueous, acetonic, and 70% hydroethanolic. Additionally, fractions of chloroform and ethyl acetate were obtained from all crude extracts of the plant. The antimicrobial property was evaluated using agar well diffusion and microdilution techniques against human opportunistic pathogens including S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans. The brine shrimp cytotoxicity test was used to analyze the lethality of the extracts and fractions. Phytochemical screening was used to qualitatively assay the presence of phytoconstituents. Results The phytochemical assay confirmed the presence of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, reducing sugars, anthraquinones, and glycosides. The lethality test demonstrated that all the extracts and fractions were toxic against Artemia salina nauplii with LC50 values ranging from 0.59 to 559.71 µg/ml. Chloroformic fraction of the hydroethanolic extract had the highest lethality with an LC50 value of 0.59 µg/ml. Two of the extracts and their fractions displayed antimicrobial activity against the Gram-positive bacteria (B. cereus and S. aureus) and fungus (C. albicans), while the same extracts had no activity against the Gram-negative bacteria (E. coli and K. pneumoniae). The highest antimicrobial activity was seen in the ethyl acetate fraction of the hydroethanolic extract at 250 mg/ml against Bacillus cereus which had an inhibition zone of 26.00 ± 0.00 and MIC value of 62.5 mg/ml. Conclusion In the current study, we report that Ocimum americanum L. demonstrated moderate antimicrobial activity, contains numerous phytocompounds, and is highly cytotoxic; thus, further research is needed for bioprospecting a novel compound.

Anticancer and antimicrobial activity of biosynthesized Red Sea marine algal silver nanoparticles

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is emerging as a simple and eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical synthesis methods. The role of AgNPs is expanding as antimicrobial and anticancer agents, sensors, nanoelectronic devices, and imaging contrast agents. In this study, biogenic AgNPs were synthesized using extracts of different marine algae species, including Ulva rigida (green alga), Cystoseira myrica (brown alga), and Gracilaria foliifera (red alga), as reducing and capping agents. The Physiochemical properties, cytotoxicity, anticancer and antimicrobial activities of the biosynthesized AgNPs were assessed. Surface plasmonic bands of the biosynthesized AgNPs capped with U. rigida, C. myrica, and G. foliifera extracts were visually observed to determine a colour change, and their peaks were observed at 424 nm, 409 nm, and 415 nm, respectively, by UV–Vis spectroscopy; transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated an almost spherical shape of AgNPs with nanoscale sizes of 12 nm, 17 nm, and 24 nm, respectively. Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis suggested that different molecules attached to AgNPs through OH, C=O, and amide groups. The major constituents of the aqueous algal extracts included, terpenoids, polyphenols, sulfonates, polysaccharides, fatty acids, chlorophylls, amide proteins, flavonoids, carotenoids, aliphatic fluoro compounds, volatile compounds, alkalines, pyruvic acid and agar groups. The cytotoxicity and anticancer activities of the biosynthesized AgNPs were assessed using Artemia salina nauplii, normal skin cell lines (HFb-4), and breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 cell line). The lethality was found to be directly proportional to the AgNP concentration. The IC50 values of C. myrica and G. foliifera AgNPs against A. saline nauplii were 5 and 10 μg ml−1 after 4 h and 16 h, respectively, whereas U. rigida AgNPs did not exhibit cytotoxic effects. Anticancer activity of the biosynthesized AgNPs was dose dependent. The IC50 values of the biosynthesized AgNPs were 13, 13, and 43 µg ml−1 for U. rigida, C. myrica, and G. foliifera, respectively. U. rigida AgNPs particularly exhibited potent anticancer activity (92.62%) against a human breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF-7) with high selectivity compared the normal cells (IC50 = 13 µg/ml, SI = 3.2), followed by C. myrica AgNPs (IC50 = 13 µg/ml, SI = 3.07). Furthermore, the biosynthesized AgNPs exhibited strong antifungal activity against dermatophyte pathogenic moulds and mild antibacterial activity against the food borne pathogen bacteria. The highest antimicrobial activity was recorded for the U. rigida AgNPs, followed by those capped with C. myrica and G. foliifera extracts, respectively. AgNPs capped with the U. rigida extract exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity against Trichophyton mantigrophytes (40 mm), followed by Trichosporon cataneum (30 mm) and E. coli (19 mm), with minimal lethal concentration of 32 and 64 μg ml−1 respectively. The study finally revealed that extracts of marine algal species, particularly U. rigida extracts, could be effectively used as reducing agents for the green synthesis of AgNPs. These AgNPs are considered efficient alternative antidermatophytes for skin infections and anticancer agents against the MCF-7 cell line.