Biological Activity Of Extracts Research Articles

Functional food candidate from Indonesian green algae Caulerpa racemosa (Försskal) J. Agardh by two extraction methods: Metabolite profile, antioxidant activity, and cytotoxic properties

There is an urgent need to explore natural sources like Caulerpa racemosa (Försskal) J. Agardh for bioactive compounds with strong antioxidant and therapeutic potential, providing sustainable alternatives for health and pharmaceutical innovation. This study aimed to determine the phytochemical profile and biological activities of extracts from edible green algae–known as sea grapes (C. racemosa). This present study has successfully identified secondary metabolites through untargeted metabolomic profiling by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) as well as a bioactive peptide. The antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity of extracts from C. racemosa and compounds were determined. A total of 103 metabolites were identified in the C. racemosa extract obtained by the maceration (ME), while 48 metabolites were detected in the soxhlet extract (SE). The sequence of the identified peptide was ELWKTF (Glu-Leu-Trp-Lys-Thr-Phe; C41H58N8O) and its abundance was identified in the α-chymotrypsin hydrolysate of C. racemosa. In the antioxidant activity test, SE and purified fraction 1 (PF1) had EC50<EC50 of control or Glutathione (GSH) in terms of 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) inhibition, and PF1 had EC50<EC50 of control or Trolox in terms of 2,2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) inhibition. In general, C. racemosa contains antioxidant nutrients, metabolites, and bioactive peptides, suggesting its promising potential as a functional food and pharmaceutical.

Conchocarpus J. C. Mikan (Rutaceae): Chemical Constituents and Biological Activities.

Rutaceae Juss. stands out as a botanical family recognized for its remarkable diversity in taxonomy, worldwide distribution, chemical composition, and biological activity exhibited by its compounds. Conchocarpus J. C. Mikan is one of the main genera of this family, comprising 50 species distributed throughout the Neotropical America. Brazil is the main center of diversity for this genus, hosting 66 % of the species as endemic. This is the first review concerning the genus Conchocarpus, emphasizing its chemical composition and biological activities. The selected papers for this review cover studies on 11 species, of which were identified 88 compounds. Among these, quinoline and acridone alkaloids predominate (57 %), followed by flavonoids, amides, coumarins and terpenoids. The biological activities of extracts and compounds indicate trypanocidal and leishmanicidal actions, as well as cytotoxic, fungicidal, molluscicidal, insecticidal, anticholinesterase and antioxidant activities.

Phytochemical Profiling and Biological Activities of Extracts from Bioreactor-Grown Suspension Cell Cultures of Schisandra henryi.

Plant biotechnology creates opportunities for the cultivation of plants regardless of their natural habitats, which are often protected or difficult to access. Maintaining suspension cell cultures in bioreactors is an advanced part of biotechnological research that provides possibilities for obtaining plant tissue on a large scale. In this study, the suspension culture cultivation of a Chinese endemic plant, Schisandra henryi, in a stirred tank bioreactor was elaborated for the first time. The phytochemical profile of the tissue extracts was determined with UHPLC-MS/MS for the lignans (fifteen dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, one aryltetralin lignan, and two neolignans) and UHPLC-DAD-ESI-MS3 for the phenolic compounds (procyanidins and their derivatives and catechin). The maximum total lignan content of 1289 µg/100 g DW was detected for the extracts from suspensions cultured in a bioreactor for over 10 days. For the phenolic compounds, catechin was the dominant compound (390.44 mg/100 g DW). The biological activity of the extracts was tested too. To determine antioxidant potential we used DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), Molybdenum reduction, and β-carotene bleaching tests. The inhibition activity of the S. henryi extract on the enzymes responsible for skin aging, hyaluronidase and tyrosinase, was assessed with spectrophotometry. The cytotoxic activity of the extracts was estimated on human ovarian SKOV-3, cervical HeLa, and gastric AGS cancer cells and non-cancer, normal fibroblasts by an MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. The results showed the great potential of the obtained cell biomass extracts. The results of the antioxidant tests indicated their strong ability to reduce the level of free radicals, similarly to that of ascorbic acid, as well as the weak capacity to protect lipids from oxidation. Moreover, anticancer potential, particularly on the cervical and gastric cancer cells, was confirmed too.

Comparative phytochemical profile and biological activity of three Terminalia species as alternative antimicrobial therapies

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMedicinal plants can help combat antibiotic resistance by providing novel, active molecules. Three plant species of the Terminalia genus are widely used in traditional medicine in the Mouhoun region for the treatment of cutaneous and respiratory diseases. Therefore, it is important to determine the ethnopharmacological potential of bark extracts from the trunks of these three Terminalia species. Aim of the studyThis study compared the phytochemical and biological activities of extracts from three Terminalia species to determine their ethnopharmacology. Materials and methodsThe medicinal properties of the extracts were assessed based on their ability to inhibit the growth of the following microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida glabrata, and Candida tropicalis. The significant interest in these medicinal plants among the local communities were elucidated by their antioxidant properties and phytochemical composition, along with the detection key bioactive compounds. Major phytochemical groups and phenolic compounds were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector. These phytochemical findings were validated by evaluating the antioxidant capacity of the extracts using DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS assays. ResultsHydroethanolic, ethanolic, and hexane extracts from the bark of three Terminalia species inhibited the growth of both bacteria and fungi, as evidenced by their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs).The findings showed that Terminalia species were most effective against various tested bacteria and fungi, with MICs ranging from 0.1 to 6.25 mg/mL. Terminalia avicennioides, Terminalia macroptera, and Terminalia laxiflora extracts demonstrated 50 % inhibition of DPPH at concentrations ranging from 0.04 to 0.6 mg/mL. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of several families of chemical compounds, such as total phenolics and flavonoids. Phenolic compounds identified by HPLC in ethanolic extracts of T. avicennioides, such as isorhamnetin, quercetin, and ferulic acid, are recognised for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. ConclusionThese findings establish an ethnobotany for these three Terminalia species, with their chromatographic characteristics facilitating the identification of key molecules of interest. The ethanolic extract of T. avicennioides can be used in phytomedicinal formulations against bacterial (P. aeruginosa and S. aureus) and fungal (C. albicans and C. glabrata) infections, both of which are recurrently recorded in certain skin and respiratory tract diseases.

Biological activities of Hypericum spectabile extract optimized using artificial neural network combined with genetic algorithm application

Optimizing extraction conditions can help maximize the efficiency and yield of the extraction process while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and human health. For the purpose of the current study, an artificial neural network (ANN) combined with a genetic algorithm (GA) was utilized for that the extraction conditions of Hypericum spectabile were optimized. In this particular investigation, the main objective was to get the highest possible levels of total antioxidant status (TAS) for the extracts that were obtained. In addition to this, conditions of the extract that exhibited the maximum activity have been determined and the biological activity of the extract that was obtained under these conditions was analyzed. TAS values were obtained from extracts obtained using extraction temperatures of 30–60 °C, extraction times of 4–10 h, and extract concentrations of 0.25-2 mg/mL. The best model selected from the established ANN models had a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) value of 0.643%, a mean squared error (MSE) value of 0.004, and a correlation coefficient (R) value of 0.996, respectively. The genetic algorithm proposed optimal extraction conditions of an extraction temperature of 59.391 °C, an extraction time of 8.841 h, and an extraction concentration of 1.951 mg/mL. It was concluded that the integration of ANN-GA can successfully be used to optimize extraction parameters of Hypericum spectabile. The total antioxidant value of the extract obtained under optimum conditions was determined as 9.306 ± 0.080 mmol/L, total oxidant value as 13.065 ± 0.112 µmol/L, oxidative stress index as 0.140 ± 0.001. Total phenolic content (TPC) was 109.34 ± 1.29 mg/g, total flavonoid content (TFC) was measured as 148.34 ± 1.48 mg/g. Anti-AChE value was determined as 30.68 ± 0.77 µg/mL, anti-BChE value was determined as 41.30 ± 0.48 µg/mL. It was also observed that the extract exhibited strong antiproliferative activities depending on the increase in concentration. As a result of LC-MS/MS analysis of the extract produced under optimum conditions in terms of phenolic content. The presence of fumaric, gallic, protocatechuic, 4-hydroxybenzoic, caffeic, 2-hydoxycinamic acids, quercetin and kaempferol was detected. As a result, it was determined that the H. spectabile extract produced under optimum conditions had significant effects in terms of biological activity.

Phytochemical characterization and biological evaluation of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) extracts: A systematic experimental study

Lemongrass () is widely used in traditional medicine, with growing interest in its pharmacological properties. This study aims to systematically investigate the phytochemical composition and biological activities of lemongrass extracts, focusing on optimizing extraction methods and evaluating their therapeutic potential.Various extraction techniques were employed, including solvent-based methods (ethanol, methanol, and water) and green extraction approaches (ultrasound-assisted and microwave-assisted extraction). Phytochemical profiling was conducted using qualitative and quantitative techniques, including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The biological activities of the extracts were assessed through in vitro assays for antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS), antimicrobial (agar diffusion), anti-inflammatory (COX inhibition), and cytotoxicity activities (on HeLa, MCF-7, and HEK-293 cell lines). Ethanol extracts showed the highest yield of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic acids. These extracts also exhibited significant antioxidant activity with DPPH and ABTS assays. The antimicrobial tests revealed strong activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, while the COX inhibition assay indicated notable anti-inflammatory effects. Cytotoxicity studies demonstrated selective toxicity toward cancer cell lines (HeLa, MCF-7) with minimal effects on normal cells (HEK-293). Lemongrass extracts, particularly those obtained via ethanol extraction, exhibit promising antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. These findings highlight its potential for pharmaceutical and therapeutic applications, warranting further investigation in vivo and in clinical trials.

Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Activities of Solvent Extracts of Two Traditionally Used Medicinal Plants

The plants Buddleja asiatica and Buddleja paniculata are two closely related species of which the former has widespread uses in traditional medicine while the latter remains relatively unexplored. The present study focused on the analysis of phytoconstituents and the estimation of different biological activities of extracts and semi-purified fractions. The ethyl acetate stem fraction and methanolic extract of the leaf of B. asiatica displayed the highest phenolic contents of 390.98 ± 5.32 and 383.72 ± 7.31 mg GAE/g. TFC content was measured as 207.33 ± 0.34 and 138.58 ± 0.53 mg QE/g for ethyl acetate leaf and stem fraction of B. asiatica. The highest antioxidant activity was displayed by crude stem extract of B. paniculata with IC50 35.65±0.61 µg/mL in DPPH assay followed by ethyl acetate stem fraction of B. asiatica with IC50 36.17±0.92 µg/mL. The DCM leaf fraction and stem fraction of B. asiatica were found active against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Both plants displayed mild to no toxicity against the brine shrimp nauplii. Median lethal concentration (LC50) ranged from 346.96 ± 25.39 in hexane fraction of leaf to 2719.32 ± 706.5 µg/mL in crude methanol extract of B. paniculata. The present study showed these medicinal plants are rich in an important class of organic compounds that play a significant role in the cure of bacterial infection which ultimately supports pharmaceutical research.

Comparative Study of the Phytochemical Profile and Biological Activity of Ajuga reptans L. Leaf and Root Extracts

In this work, the phytochemical composition and the biological activity of the ethanolic extracts obtained from Ajuga reptans L. (Lamiaceae) leaves and roots (growing in Lesser Poland Voivodeship, Poland) were compared. The phytochemical composition of the extracts were determined by the high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC–DAD) method. The dominant compounds in both extracts were verbacoside, isoverbacoside, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and rosmarinic acid. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2’-azobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate (ABTS) tests. The Folin–Ciocalteu assay was used to determine the total polyphenolic content. Additionally, enzyme (tyrosinase, collagenase) inhibition tests and metal chelating ability were studied to assess the anti-aging properties of the extracts. Moreover, the A. reptans extracts’ capacity to absorb the whole range of ultraviolet radiation and high-energy visible (HEV) light was evaluated. The skin irritation test (SIT) EpiDerm was applied to evaluate the safety of the bugle extracts. The noteworthy point is that there is a lack of literature on the assessment of A. reptans root extract activity. Our study is the only one that compares the quantitative composition and biological activity of extracts from the root and leaves of A. reptans. The obtained results indicated that both of the extracts exhibit high antioxidant, chelating and photoprotective activity, but the extract from A. reptans roots showed a higher enzyme inhibition effect for mature skin. The A. reptans root extract, similarly to the leaf extract, could be applied as potentially multi-functional, safe and sensitive cosmetic raw materials, especially in anti-aging and anti-pollution cosmetics.

A review of the extraction and purification methods, biological activities, and applications of active compounds in Acanthopanax senticosus

Acanthopanax senticosus (AS) is a geo-authentic crude medicinal plant that grows in China, Korea, Russia, and Japan. AS contains bioactive compounds such as eleutherosides, polysaccharides, and flavonoids. It is also a key traditional herb in the Red List of Chinese Species. AS is mainly distributed in Northeast China, specifically in Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning provinces. Its active compounds contribute to significant biological activities, including neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-fatigue, and antitumor effects. However, the extraction methods of active compounds are complex, the extraction efficiency is poor, and the structure–activity relationship is unclear. This study focused on the nutrients in AS, including protein, carbohydrates, and lipids. Particularly, the active ingredients (eleutherosides, polysaccharides, and flavonoids) in AS and their extraction and purification methods were analyzed and summarized. The biological activities of extracts have been reviewed, and the mechanisms of anti-oxidation, antitumor, anti-inflammation, and other activities are introduced in detail. The applications of AS in various domains, such as health foods, medicines, and animal dietary supplements, are then reported. Compared with other extraction methods, ultrasonic or microwave extraction improves efficiency, yet they can damage structures. Challenges arise in the recovery of solvents and in achieving extraction efficiency when using green solvents, such as deep eutectic solvents. Improvements can be made by combining extraction methods and controlling conditions (power, temperature, and time). Bioactive molecules and related activities are exposited clearly. The applications of AS have not been widely popularized, and the corresponding functions require further development.

Pleiotropic Potential of Evernia prunastri Extracts and Their Main Compounds Evernic Acid and Atranorin: In Vitro and In Silico Studies.

Evernia prunastri is a lichen widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere. Its biological properties still need to be discovered. Therefore, our paper focuses on studies of E. prunastri extracts, including its main metabolites evernic acid (EA) or atranorin (ATR). Phytochemical profiles using chromatographic analysis were confirmed. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using in vitro chemical tests and in vitro enzymatic cells-free tests, namely superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and catalase (CAT). The anti-inflammatory potential using cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and hyaluronidase were determined. The neuroprotective potential using acetylcholinesterase, (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and tyrosinase (Tyr) was estimated. The hypoglycemic activity was also confirmed (α-glucosidase). Principal component analysis was performed to determine the relationship between the biological activity of extracts. The inhibitory effect of EA and ATR on COX-2 AChE, BChE, Tyr, and α-glucosidase was evaluated using molecular docking techniques and confirmed for EA and ATR (besides α-glucosidase). The penetration of EA and ATR from extracts through the blood-brain barrier was confirmed using the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay blood-brain barrier test. In conclusion, depending on chemical surroundings and the concentration, the E. prunastri extracts, EA or ATR, showed attractive pleiotropic properties, which should be further investigated.

Oleuropein in olive leaf, branch, and stem extracts: stability and biological activity in human cervical carcinoma and melanoma cells.

Olive leaves as a main byproduct of olive oil and fruit industry are a valuable source of phytochemicals such as polyphenols, with multiple biomedical effects. Apart from leaves, olive branches and stems make up a significant amount of olive waste. It is well known that the drying process and long-term storage affect the stability and concentration of polyphenols present in raw materials. For that matter, two different means of storing olive waste, at room temperature and +4 °C, were compared by determining the content of the polyphenol oleuropein (OLE) in olive leaf, branch, and stem extracts (LE, BE, and SE) by HPLC-DAD method. Total phenols (TPC), o-diphenols (o-DPC), and total flavonoids (TFC) content in extracts were assessed by UV-Vis measurements. LE prepared from leaves stored at +4 °C had the highest OLE content, 30.7 mg g-1 of dry extract (DE). SE from stems stored at +4 °C was the richest in TPC and TFC (193 mg GAE/g DE and 82.9 mg CE/g DE, respectively), due to the higher purity of the extract. The biological activity of extracts was determined on cervical cancer (HeLa), melanoma (A375), metastatic melanoma (A375M) tumor cell lines, and on spontaneously immortalized cell line of keratinocytes (HaCaT), using the MTT assay. The data show that all extracts had a similar dose-dependent effect on cell viability in HeLa cells, while the effect of LE on melanoma A375 and A375M, and HaCaT cells was cell-line dependent.

Optimizing extraction of Pelargonium sidoides roots: Impact of ethanol concentration on biological activity of extracts

Pelargonium sidoides DC. (Geraniaceae) is an important indigenous medicinal plant in South Africa, historically employed by various ethnic groups to treat respiratory and gastrointestinal ailments. The proprietary herbal tincture, Umckaloabo®, utilizes an ethanolic extract (EPs® 7630) from the roots of P. sidoides, and has demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of respiratory infections.P. sidoides roots contain numerous highly oxygenated coumarins and phenolic metabolites, notably the marker compound umckalin. While Umckaloabo® is prepared using 11 % ethanol extraction, the South African commercial market predominantly employs 60 % ethanol extraction due to its consistent umckalin yield and antimicrobial activity. The effects of these extraction methods on chemical composition and in vitro pharmacological activity remain poorly understood.This study confirmed superior antibacterial and antifungal activity in the 60 % ethanol extracts prepared from six root samples compared to the 11 % ethanol extracts. MIC values for both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria ranged from 0.078 to 2.5 mg/mL in the 60 % extracts. Remarkably, two of the root extracts exhibited excellent to very good activity against C. albicans and C. neoformans with MIC values of 0.039 and 0.078 mg/mL, respectively.A positive correlation was identified between total minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) levels and polyphenol content, rather than umckalin levels. The influence of these extracts on the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 was assessed. Both 60 % and 11 % root extracts of P. sidoides at 100 µg/mL significantly reduced IL-6 production, with the 60 % extracts demonstrating a more pronounced effect (p = 0.008).Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between 11 % and 60 % ethanol extractions in terms of average MIC overall, average Gram-negative MIC, average Gram-positive MIC, fungal MIC, and IL-6 levels. Extracts with higher polyphenol values exhibited superior antimicrobial activity and antioxidant potential, suggesting that polyphenol content may serve as a more reliable indicator of antimicrobial activity than umckalin levels. Additionally, polyphenol levels in the roots may vary with altitude and other environmental factors, warranting further research.

A comparative analysis of the proanthocyanidins from fruit and non-fruit trees and shrubs of Northern Europe: Chemical characteristics and biological activity

The comparative analysis of the chemical composition and biological activity of extracts and proanthocyanidins (PACs) isolated from harvesting and pruning agro-waste of fruit shrub-trees (Hippophae rhamnoides L. and Aronia melanocarpa) and forest cleaning waste of non-fruit trees and shrubs (Alnus incana L., Alnus glutinosa and Salix caprea) of Northern Europe was carried out. Aronia melanocarpa and Hippophae rhamnoides L. biomass had the highest proanthocyanidins content (up to 12%) on dry biomass. Fruit trees-derived purified PACs which contained structures with higher polymerization degree had slightly higher antioxidant activity. Both fruit and non-fruit trees PACs can be successfully used in antimicrobial preparations and as antioxidants, and could be interchangeable in the compositions of the antimicrobial preparations, especially against E. coli, P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. Salix caprea, which contained wider range of gallocatechin subunits, and Alnus spp., which contained diarylheptanoids, had shown better anti-microbial activity against B. cereus. Non-fruit trees PACs are desirable in the preparations against C. albicans. PACs from Hippophae rhamnoides L. and Aronia melanocarpa inhibited biofilm formation to 50%, but the extract from Hippophae rhamnoides L. showed the most significant MRSA biofilm growth inhibition (onto 80%). Preparations on the basis of waste biomass-derived compounds will contribute to sustainable pharmacy since their application will allow to diminish the use of antibiotics and to have less toxic side effects both for humans and the environment.

An Integrated Extraction-Purification Process for Raspberry Leaf Polyphenols and Their In Vitro Activities.

To improve the utilization value of raspberry leaves, the extraction and purification conditions of phenolic compounds from raspberry leaves were optimized, and the contents of phenolic compounds and the biological activities of extracts were studied. After steam explosion pretreatment at 115 °C for 15 min, raspberry leaf extract with a total phenolic content (TPC) of 136.30~140.51 mg GAE/g was obtained via homogenization and ultrasound-assisted extraction. In addition, the adsorption relationship between raspberry leaf polyphenols and middle polar XDA-6 macroporous resin was best described by the Langmuir model, and tended to be monolayer adsorption. Its adsorption kinetics best resembled the pseudo second-order kinetic model, and it was speculated that this was influenced by multiple factors. According to the optimal integrated extraction-purification process, the TPC of the extracts increased to 738.98 mg GAE/g after one application of purification and 905.27 mg GAE/g after two applications of purification. Moreover, the latter case showed the highest antioxidant activity and α-glucosidase inhibition activity, and the content of the most typical compound, quercetin-3-glucuronide, reached 199.69 mg/g. SE has a double-edged effect, and is more conducive to the release of active substances as a pre-treatment method. This study provides a theoretical basis for the efficient use of raspberry leaves, further improving their medicinal and economic value.

An Estimation of the Antiviral Activity and Toxicity of Biologically Active Substances Obtained from the Raw Materials of Artemisia cina Berg. In Vitro and In Vivo.

Species of the genus Artemisia are well known for their use as ingredients in ancient medicine. The advantage of using plant extracts compared to individual pharmaceutical ingredients is the rate of adaptation of the pathogenic microorganisms to the drug. Due to the rapid development of multidrug-resistance in microorganisms in the field, it is essential to search for novel, effective drugs with low toxicity. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to isolate and study the biologically active substances obtained from various substances in the raw materials of Artemisia cina Berg. The identification of the main biologically active components was performed using the method of chromato-mass spectrometry. Moreover, the antiviral activity of several extracts was studied using the method of measuring limiting dilutions (the Reed-Mench method), with some modifications. For the first time, the biological activity of extracts from the raw material of Artemisia cina Berg. upon the SARS-CoV-2 virus was confirmed. All the obtained extracts exhibited nontoxic effects in animals, with an LD50 greater than 2 g/kg. Comprehensive toxicological analyses are also presented in the study, such as those of the biochemical parameters of urine after one day and one week of the extracts' administration in mice at a dose of 2 g/kg body weight. In all groups of animals that received extracts of Artemisia cina Berg., a slight increase in the presence of red blood cells in their urine was observed one day following the administration of the extracts. This increase decreased somewhat after a week; however, it remained higher than the levels observed in the control animals. In the three groups, there was also a slight increase in the amount of ketones in the urine. Two weeks following the administration of the extracts to these groups, the internal organs of the animals were examined. The examination showed that the internal organs of the animals that received the extracts were not visibly different from those of the control animals in terms of their size or appearance. The weight of the internal organs of the animals that received the extracts was also similar to the weight of the internal organs of the control animals, illustrating the absence of toxicity.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions of extracts from Rheum rhaponticum and Rheum rhabarbarum in human blood plasma and cells in vitro

Rheum rhaponticum L. (rhapontic rhubarb) and Rheum rhabarbarum L. (garden rhubarb) are edible and medicinal rhubarb species used for many centuries in traditional medicine. This work is focused on the biological activity of extracts from petioles and roots of R. rhaponticum and R. rhabarbarum as well as rhapontigenin and rhaponticin, typical stilbenes present in these rhubarbs, in a context of their effects on blood physiology and cardiovascular health. Anti-inflammatory properties of the examined substances were evaluated in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and THP1-ASC-GFP inflammasome reporter cells. Due to the coexistence of inflammation and oxidative stress in cardiovascular diseases, the study design included also antioxidant assays. This part of the work involved the assessment of the protective efficiency of the examined substances against the peroxynitrite-triggered damage to human blood plasma components, including fibrinogen, a protein of critical importance for blood clotting and maintaining the haemostatic balance. Pre-incubation of PBMCs with the examined substances (1–50 μg/mL) considerably decreased the synthesis of prostaglandin E2 as well as the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-2 and TNF-α) and metalloproteinase-9. A reduced level of secreted apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC) specks in the THP-1-ASC-GFP cells was also observed. The examined substances significantly diminished the extent of ONOO‾induced oxidative modifications of blood plasma proteins and lipids and normalized, or even strengthened blood plasma antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, a reduction of oxidative damage to fibrinogen, including modifications of tyrosine and tryptophan residues along with the formation of protein aggregates was found.

Biological activities of extracts and compounds from Thai Kae-Lae (Maclura cochinchinensis (Lour.) Corner)

Background and aimsThe purpose of this study was to investigate the biological properties of Kae-Lae (Maclura cochinchinensis (Lour.) Corner), a traditional medicinal plant used in Ayurvedic recipes in Thailand. To achieve this objective, heartwood samples were collected from 12 sources across Thailand. Fractional extracts (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol) and the dominant compounds (morin, resveratrol, and quercetin) were examined for their abilities on cytotoxicity, antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and antileukaemic activity (Wilms’ tumour 1 protein was used as a well-known biomarker for leukaemic cell proliferation).MethodsThe study used MTT to assess cytotoxicity in leukaemic cells (K562, EoL-1, and KG-1a). Antioxidant activities were evaluated using ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP assays. The anti-inflammatory activity was investigated by detecting IL-2, TNF-α, and NO using appropriate detection kits. Wilms’ tumour 1 protein expression was measured by Western blotting to determine the anti-leukaemic activity. The inhibition of cell migration was also analyzed to confirm anticancer progression.ResultsAmong the tested extract fraction, ethyl acetate No. 001 displayed strong cytotoxicity specifically in EoL-1 cells, while n-hexane No. 008 demonstrated this effect in three cell lines. Resveratrol, on the other hand, displayed cytotoxicity in all the tested cells. Additionally, the three major compounds, morin, resveratrol, and quercetin, exhibited significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In particular, resveratrol demonstrated a noteworthy decreased Wilms’ tumour 1 protein expression and a reduction in cell proliferation across all cells. Moreover, ethyl acetate No. 001, morin, and resveratrol effectively inhibited MCF-7 cell migration. None of these compounds showed any impact on red blood cell haemolysis.ConclusionBased on these findings, it can be concluded that Kae-Lae has promising chemotherapeutic potential against leukaemic cells, with fractional extracts (ethyl acetate and n-hexane) and resveratrol exhibiting the most potent cytotoxic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cell migration activities.

The Influence of Microwave-Assisted Extraction on the Phenolic Compound Profile and Biological Activities of Extracts from Selected Scutellaria Species.

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) conditions (microwave power, extraction time, and ethanol concentration) on the efficiency of the extraction of phenolic compounds from selected plant species belonging to the genus Scutellaria (i.e., Scutellaria baicalensis and Scutellaria lateriflora). The extracts from selected Scutellaria species were examined to establish the total phenolic content and the in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The antioxidant capacity was determined by the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging capacity methods. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated through the lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibitory assay. The phenolic profile of the extracts was characterized using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD/ESI-HRMS/MS). Depending on the type of solvent and the extraction conditions used, the extracts obtained from selected Scutellaria species showed different total and individual phenolic content, as well as different antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The results showed that all Scutellaria extracts had high total phenolic content and exhibited strong ferric ion reducing power and free radical scavenging capacity and a significant ability to inhibit the LOX activity. In general, the 70% ethanol extracts contained more phenolic compounds, mainly flavones, flavanones, and their derivatives, and showed greater in vitro biological activity than other extracts. The highest levels of phenolic compounds and the strongest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential were found in extracts from the roots of S. baicalensis. Optimal extraction conditions for all the plant materials tested were determined as the microwave power of 63 W, extraction time of 10 min, and 70% ethanol as the solvent.

Biological activities of extracts and selected polyphenols from Hydrangea macrophylla leaves

LebensmittelchemieVolume 77, Issue S1 p. S1-098-S1-098 Aritlce Biological activities of extracts and selected polyphenols from Hydrangea macrophylla leaves A. Al-Yafeai, A. Al-Yafeai Institut für Ernährungswissenschaften, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, JenaSearch for more papers by this authorC. Schubert, C. Schubert Institut für Ernährungswissenschaften, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, JenaSearch for more papers by this authorO. Neye, O. Neye JPR Natural Products, JenaSearch for more papers by this authorK. Olbricht, K. Olbricht Albrecht Daniel Thaer-Institut für Agrar- und Gartenbauwissenschaften, Humboldt-Universität, BerlinSearch for more papers by this authorV. Böhm, Corresponding Author V. Böhm [email protected] Institut für Ernährungswissenschaften, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, JenaCorresponding author: apl. Prof. Dr. Volker BöhmSearch for more papers by this author A. Al-Yafeai, A. Al-Yafeai Institut für Ernährungswissenschaften, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, JenaSearch for more papers by this authorC. Schubert, C. Schubert Institut für Ernährungswissenschaften, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, JenaSearch for more papers by this authorO. Neye, O. Neye JPR Natural Products, JenaSearch for more papers by this authorK. Olbricht, K. Olbricht Albrecht Daniel Thaer-Institut für Agrar- und Gartenbauwissenschaften, Humboldt-Universität, BerlinSearch for more papers by this authorV. Böhm, Corresponding Author V. Böhm [email protected] Institut für Ernährungswissenschaften, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, JenaCorresponding author: apl. Prof. Dr. Volker BöhmSearch for more papers by this author First published: 01 March 2023 https://doi.org/10.1002/lemi.202352075AboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL No abstract is available for this article. Volume77, IssueS1Supplement: Abstracts der Vorträge der Regionalverbände und die der Posterflashtalks der AG JLCMarch 2023Pages S1-098-S1-098 RelatedInformation

Phytochemical Composition and Biological Activities of Extracts from Early, Mature, and Germinated Somatic Embryos of Cotyledon orbiculata L.

Cotyledon orbiculata L. (Crassulaceae)-round-leafed navelwort-is used worldwide as a potted ornamental plant, and it is also used in South African traditional medicine. The current work aims to assess the influence of plant growth regulators (PGR) on somatic embryogenesis (SE) in C. orbiculata; compare the metabolite profile in early, mature, and germinated somatic embryos (SoEs) by utilizing ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS); and determine the antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory potentials of SoEs. A maximum SoE induction rate of 97.2% and a mean number of SoEs per C. orbiculata leaf explant of 35.8 were achieved on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with 25 µM 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and 2.2 µM 1-phenyl-3-(1,2,3,-thiadiazol-5-yl)urea. The globular SoEs were found to mature and germinate best on MS medium with gibberellic acid (4 µM). The germinated SoE extract had the highest amounts of both total phenolics (32.90 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extract) and flavonoids (1.45 mg rutin equivalent/g extract). Phytochemical evaluation of SoE extracts by UHPLC-MS/MS reveals the presence of three new compounds in mature and germinated SoEs. Among the SoE extracts tested, germinated SoE extract exhibited the most potent antioxidant activity, followed by early and mature somatic embryos. The mature SoE extract showed the best acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. The SE protocol established for C. orbiculata can be used for the production of biologically active compounds, mass multiplication, and conservation of this important species.