DPPH Research Articles

Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities of Leaf and Stem Extracts of Barleria albostellata C.B. Clarke

Barleria albostellata C.B. Clarke (Acanthaceae) is a plant native to South Africa and relatively few studies have been performed on it. Species in this genus are known for their ethnopharmacological and phyto-medicinal values. In this study, the total flavonoid and phenolic contents and the antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of hexane, chloroform, and methanol extracts were evaluated at five different concentrations (15, 30, 60, 120, and 240 μg/mL). The antioxidant activity of the extracts of B. albostellata was assessed in vitro using the 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, while the phenolic content was determined using a Folin–Ciocalteu assay. The extracts’ cytotoxicity was established using a 3-[(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] (MTT) assay in human embryonic kidney (HEK293), cervical cancer (HeLa), and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cell lines. Methanolic leaf extracts had the highest total flavonoid content (42.39 ± 1.14 mg GAE/g DW) compared to other solvents. Additionally, the total phenolic content was the greatest in the methanol leaf extract (6.05 ± 0.09 GAE/g DW), followed by the methanol stem extracts (2.93 ± 0.73 GAE/g DW). The methanolic leaf and stem extract concentrations needed for 50% inhibition (DPPH) were 16.95 µg/mL and 14.27 µg/mL, respectively, whereas for FRAP, the reducing powers of all extracts were considerably lower than the ascorbic acid standard. The IC50 values of extracts tested in the three cell lines were >63 µg/mL. According to the findings of our study, the leaves and stems of B. albostellata are rich in several bioactive compounds that may be a possible source of natural antioxidants and may have the potential to treat certain diseases. The extraction of the bioactive compounds from the leaves and stems of B. albostellata using bioassay-guided fractionation and the assessment of their safety will be essential for further investigations into this species in the search of potential novel therapeutic drug leads. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the cytotoxic activities of leaf and stem extracts of Barleria albostellata.

Phytochemical Components and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Leaves Extract of Phyllanthus niruri Linn. (Chanca piedra)

Oxidative stress has been recognized as a co-occurring pathogenic process that initiates and advances liver injury. Various risk factors, such as alcohol, drugs, environmental toxins, and irradiation, can cause the liver to experience oxidative stress, which in turn can lead to serious liver conditions such as alcoholic liver disease. This study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant potentials of methanol leaf extract of Phyllanthus niruri Linn. (Chanca piedra). The sample was obtained from Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. The methanol leaves extract was subjected to qualitative phytochemical analysis and in vitro radical scavenging activity, using standard laboratory procedures. The methanol leaves extract of Phyllanthus niruri Linn. (Chanca piedra) exhibited a significant antioxidant activity on both hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and di-phenyl-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity assay with IC50 values of 3.70±0.06 and 6.78±0.01 μg/ml respectively, as compared to the standard (Ascorbic acid) with IC50 values of 2.39±0.01 and 1.25±0.01 μg/ml, respectively. This study therefore suggests that the methanol leaves extract of Phyllanthus niruri Linn. (Chanca piedra) possessed antioxidant activity.

Antioxidant Activity of Mahogany Parasite Leaves (Dendrophthu pentandra (L.) Miq.) Assessed Using the DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl) Method

Synthetic antioxidants, such as butyl hydroxyanisole (BHA), have carcinogenic (cancer-causing) adverse effects because they can cause type I alveolar damage and damage to lung endothelial genes. The objective of this study was to use the DPPH (2,2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method to investigate the antioxidant activity of natural substances found in the leaves of the mahogany parasite (Dendrophthu pentandra (L.) Miq.). Extraction, chromatography, and spectrophotometry are the techniques used. Maceration in stages utilizing n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol as solvents yielded mahogany parasite leaf extract. Phytochemical screening, thin layer chromatography testing, antioxidant activity testing utilizing a Visible Spectrophotometer, and estimating the IC50 were all performed on mahogany parasite leaf extract. The phytochemical screening results revealed that the samples included four types of secondary metabolites: flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and steroids. A thin layer chromatographic test revealed four well-separated stains using n-hexane and ethyl acetate eluent in a volume ratio of 5:5, showing the Rf as the value of the four secondary metabolites mentioned above. Based on the results of the experiments, it is possible to conclude that mahogany parasite leaves have strong antioxidant activity, with an IC50 of 8.47 ppm.

Phytochemical screening and in vitro evaluation of antioxidant and antimicrobial efficacies of Pteropyum scoparium (Jaub. & Spach) Sidaf crude extracts

ObjectivePteropyrum scoparium Jaub. & Spach locally known as “Sidaf” is a meal known to the ancient Omani people with many health benefits. It is traditionally used in Oman to treat high cholesterol, hypertension, indigestion problems, wound healing, and diabetes. However, these claims are yet to be scientifically proven. Hence, this study aimed to perform phytochemical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial analysis of P. scoparium leaves aqueous and alcoholic extracts to confirm its medicinal potential. MethodsA detailed phytochemical analysis of ethanol and aqueous extracts of leaves was carried out to confirm the presence of bioactive substances. DPPH (2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), agar-well diffusion and disc diffusion methods were used to evaluate antioxidant and antimicrobial potential, respectively. The extracts were tested against four microorganisms viz. E. coli (ATCC 25922), S. aureus (ATCC 23235), Penicillium sp. (ATCC 11597) and Rhizopus stolonifer (ATCC 14037). ResultsThe ethanol extract exhibited higher DPPH scavenging activity than aqueous extract that was confirmed with IC50 values of both extracts. However, the aqueous extract was found to be significantly more effective as an antimicrobial agent than the ethanol extract. This could be due to higher coumarins content that is thrice as much as in ethanol extract. One-way repeated measure RM ANOVA showed that there was a statistically significant difference in the antimicrobial susceptibility of all four organisms for the aqueous and ethanol well diffusion extracts (DF = 7; SS = 56.350, MS = 8.050; F = 5.865; P < 0.001). The highest mean zone of inhibition was recorded for S. aureus (12 ± 3.851 mm) well diffusion aqueous extract followed by R. stolonifer (11.750 ± 4.250 mm) well diffusion aqueous extract, and S. aureus (10.625 ± 3.771 mm) well diffusion ethanol extract. ConclusionsPhytochemical screening of ethanol and aqueous extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, carbohydrates, amino acid, fats & fixed oils, phenolic compounds & tannins, proteins, phytosterols, saponins, gum & mucilage, terpenoids, coumarins and anthocyanins. The findings from this study will be useful in evaluating the phytochemical constituents present in the extract and developing commercial drugs as antioxidant and antimicrobial agents based on this plant.

Chemical composition, minerals concentration, total phenolic compounds, flavonoids content and antioxidant capacity in organic and conventional vegetables

The demand for organic vegetables is increasing worldwide, which has led to the growth of organic agriculture. However, information on chemical composition and antioxidant activity in vegetables grown organically under controlled conditions remains uncertain. For this study, 3 vegetables widely consumed in Brazil were cultivated in controlled organic and conventional cultivation systems: lettuce, coriander and tomato. Their chemical composition, mineral concentration, phenolic compound content, flavonoids and antioxidant activity (AA) were evaluated. The analyses of chemical and mineral composition revealed differences between the cultivation systems. Organic lettuce presented higher content of ashes, calcium and potassium. A higher content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids was observed in most organic vegetables. Using the 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, the organic tomato exhibited higher AA compared to conventional, while the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method showed higher AA for organic coriander and tomato than theirs conventional version. The correlation between bioactive compounds and AA was positive, higher and stronger for organic vegetables, considering phenolic compounds (including flavonoids) and DPPH or FRAP antioxidant activity. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) disclosed that organic lettuce and coriander were grouped according bioactive components. In general, organic vegetables showed better results for bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity.

Antimicrobial, Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, and Anticoagulant Activities of Cupressus sempervirens In Vitro and In Silico.

In the last decade, the urgent need to explore medicinal plants or drug development has increased enormously around the world to overcome numerous health problems. In the present investigation, HPLC indicated the existence of 18 phenolic and flavonoid compounds in the Cupressus sempervirens extract. Hesperetin represents the greatest concentration (25,579.57 µg/mL), while other compounds, such as pyro catechol, rutin, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, naringenin, and quercetin, were recognized in concentrations of 2922.53 µg/mL, 1313.26 µg/mL, 1107.26 µg/mL, 389.09 µg/mL, 156.53 µg/mL, and 97.56 µg/mL, respectively. The well diffusion method documented the antibacterial/antifungal activity of C. sempervirens extract against E. faecalis, E. coli, C. albicans, S. typhi, S.aureus, and M. circinelloid with 35, 33, 32, 25, 23, and 21 mm inhibition zones, respectively, more than the standard antibiotic/antifungal agent. Low values ranging from 7.80 to 15.62 µg/mL of MIC and MBC were recorded for E. faecalis, E. coli, and C. albicans. From the 1- diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) assay, promising antioxidant activity was recorded for C. sempervirens extract with IC50 of an 8.97 µg/mL. Moreover, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total antioxidant capacity assays (TAC) confirmed the antioxidant activity of the extract, which was expressed as the ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE) of 366.9 ± 0.2 µg/mg and 102 ± 0.2 µg/mg of extracts, respectively. α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition % were determined to express the antidiabetic activity of the extract in vitro, with promising IC50 value (27.01 µg/mL) for α-amylase compared to that of acarbose (50.93 µg/mL), while IC50 value of the extract for α-glucosidase was 19.21µg/mL compared to that of acarbose 4.13 µg/mL. Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) revealed the role of C. sempervirens extract as an anticoagulant agent if compared with the activity of heparin. Binding interactions of hesperetin and gallic acid were examined via the Molecular Operating Environment (MOE) Dock software against E. faecalis (PDB ID: 3CLQ), C. albicans (PDB ID: 7RJC), α-amylase (PDB ID: 4W93), and α-glucosidase (PDB ID: 3TOP). The obtained results shed light on how molecular modeling methods might inhibit the tested compounds, which have the potential to be useful in the treatment of target proteins.

Circulating microRNAs as novel biomarkers for measuring the potency of ginger extract against cyclophosphamide toxicity in rat renal tissues: molecular and histopathological study.

This study aims to explore underlying molecular variations in the expression of miRNAs in kidney tissues of ginger-treated and non-treated cyclophosphamide (CP)-intoxicated rats. A total of 40 adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups of 10 each: Group I (control: received normal food and water), Group II (received ginger at a dose of 300 mg/kg), Group III (received CP 75 mg/kg, i.p.), and Group IV (received the same dose of CP and ginger extract). Rats received a single injection of 75 mg/kg CP on days 3, 4, 5, 19, 20, and 21. In CP-intoxicated rats, the treatment with ginger extract at a dose of 300 mg/kg was received by oral gavage starting seven days before CP and continuing throughout the duration of the experiment for four weeks. Molecular variations in the expression of miRNAs, apoptotic genes, histological kidney damage, and abnormal kidney function in control, ginger, and CP-intoxicated rats were identified by using real-time RT-PCR Analysis, immunohistochemical, and colorimetric assays. In addition, HPLC analysis and liquid chromatography spectrophotometry analysis using Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, and Β-Carotene-linoleic acid reagents were applied respectively for in-vitro screening of phytoconstituents and antioxidant activity for ginger extract. The kidney tissues of CP-intoxicated rats displayed an increase in lipid peroxidation marker malonaldehyde (MDA), DNA damage, and fibrosis markers like hyaluronic acid (HA) and hydroxyproline Hypx) with a decrease in the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). In addition, molecular expressions of mRNA fibrotic genes such as collagen, type 1, alpha 1 (COL1A1), and α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA). Molecular expressions of levels of B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCl-2) mRNA gene were down-regulated, and the expression of mRNA apoptotic; BCL2 associated X gene (Bax), caspase-3, Bax/BCl-2 ratio genes were significantly up-regulated respectively. Moreover, cellular oxidative genes, erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were down-regulated, respectively. The miR-155-5p, miR-34a-5p, miR-21-5p significantly increased while the miR-193b-3p, miR-455-3p, and miR-342-3p significantly decreased. Ginger also increased the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and BCl-2 genes in the kidneys of rats induced with CP. In addition, active phytoconstituents, particularly 6]]-shogaol and 6]]-gingerol, were significantly identified in ginger extract using HPLC analysis. Antioxidant activity of these active metabolites were shown to be higher against in vitro free radicals (DPPH and Β-Carotene-linoleic acid), suggesting the potential antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties of ginger against CP-toxicity. Treatment with ginger in rats induced with CP resulted in significant improvement in the expression of certain molecular miRNAs. The kidney tissues of these rats showed a marked decrease in the expression of miR-155-5p, miR-34a-5p, and miR-21-5p, while the levels of miR-193b-3p, miR-455-3p, and miR-342-3p were observed to increase significantly. In conclusion, ginger can protect rats from CP-induced nephrotoxicity.

Effect of Mn Doped on Structural, Optical, and Dielectric Properties of BiFe1-xMnxO3 for Efficient Antioxidant Activity.

Manganese-doped bismuth ferrites were synthesized using the coprecipitation method with the green extract Azadirachta indica. Our incorporation of the transition element, manganese, into bismuth ferrites tackles the challenge of increased leakage current often observed in intrinsic bismuth ferrites. We gained key insights through a comprehensive examination of the structural, dielectric, and optical properties of these materials, utilizing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), impedance spectroscopy, and UV-visible spectroscopy, respectively. The formation of an octahedral geometry was confirmed using the FTIR technique. UV-visible spectroscopy indicated that 2% Mn doping is optimal, while we obtained a low band gap energy (2.21 eV) and high refractive index (3.010) at this amount of doping. The manufactured materials exhibited the typical ferrite-like dielectric response, that is, the dielectric parameter gradually decreased as the frequency increased and then stayed constant in the high-frequency range. Using the diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical assay, we also examined the antioxidant activity of bismuth ferrites. We concluded that among different Mn-doped BiFeMnO3-based nanomaterials, the 2 wt % Mn-doped BiFeMnO3 shows the highest antioxidant activity. This finding substantiates the efficacy of the optimized material with regard to its potent antioxidant activity, positioning it as a promising candidate for potential biomedical applications.

Studies on the extraction of Jerusalem artichoke tuber phenolics using microwave-assisted extraction optimized conditions

Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), which is a known method for the extraction of phenolic compounds from plants, was employed to extract the polyphenols in Jerusalem artichoke tuber (JAT) using response surface methodology optimized conditions of microwave power (MP), extraction-time (TE) and temperature (Temp). The MAE was used to improve polyphenols extraction yield from JAT. The ethanolic extracts of JAT obtained by MAE were quantitatively analyzed for total polyphenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) 2, 2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The optimal conditions obtained were as follows: Temp of 79.18 °C, TE of 11.96 min, and MP of 13.49 W. Based on these conditions, the extraction yield of TPC, TFC,% DPPH and FRAP could reach 4483.33 mg GAE/kg, 2731.59 mg RE/kg, 82.69 % and 2.65 mmol/L respectively with a predicted general-desirability value of 0.82. DPPH (r = 0.972) and FRAP (r = 0.982) significantly (p < 0.05) correlated to TPC suggesting that TPC was the main phenolic contributing to the antioxidant activity. The extraction yield recorded was higher than that of the liquid and ultrasound extraction methods.

Eco-friendly Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles using Bignay (Antidesma bunius) Leaves for Antibacterial Application

Background:: Foodborne pathogenic bacteria continue to become a global concern despite the advancements in food packaging technology. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are widely studied in the field as they exhibit desirable inhibitory properties against foodborne pathogens. AgNPs are conventionally synthesized by toxic chemical and physical means; hence, there is a need to seek environmentally safe alternative routes for producing AgNPs. Objective:: The study aimed to synthesize AgNPs using bignay (Antidesma bunius) leaf extract and assess its antimicrobial activity against the common foodborne pathogens S. aureus and E. coli. Methods:: Bignay leaf extract was characterized using total phenolic content (TPC) assay and 2,2- Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. AgNPs were produced under optimized pH, temperature, and incubation time and were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, and Transmission Electron Microscopy. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs was evaluated against S. aureus and E. coli using the Resazurin Microtiter Assay (REMA). Results:: Bignay leaf extract exhibited a total phenolic content of 0.315 ± 0.015 mg GAE/mg extract and an IC50 of 36.36 ± 0.003 μg/mL, which suggests its good reducing properties. The AgNPs synthesized under reaction conditions of pH 7, 45 ºC, and 30 min showed SPR peaks in the range of 412- 426 nm. Particles were spherical with an average size of 23.72 ± 7.30 nm. FTIR analysis revealed that the phenolic compounds in the extract capped the resulting nanoparticles. AgNPs demonstrated superior inhibitory activity against S. aureus and E. coli with MIC90 values of 2.90 ± 0.03 and 3.08 ± 0.004 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusion:: The study was able to develop a green approach for the synthesis of AgNPs with antibacterial properties using bignay leaf extract.

Antioxidant activity and efficacy of Garcinia kola (bitter kola) oil on pathogenic and alteration microorganisms of attiéké

Attiéké, the most widely consumed cassava product in Côte d'Ivoire, has a short shelf life. This is largely due to microbial contamination. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the antioxidant activity and effectiveness of Garcinia kola seed oil against pathogenic and spoilage strains of attiéké. This was possible through an extraction of Garcinia kola oil by maceration in hexane. The antimicrobial activity of the oil was assessed using an agar diffusion method. The antioxidant activity of Garcinia kola oil was assessed using the DiPhenyl Picryl Hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging test and the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) test. Garcinia kola oil showed significant antioxidant potential. A high percentage of DPPH radical inhibition was observed, with an IC50 of 2.57 mg/mL. Iron-reducing power was highest when the oil was used at a concentration of 100 %. Garcinia kola oil was able to inhibit the bacterial growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli at a concentration of 100, 50 and 25 % respectively from 22 ± 0.05 to 16 ± 0.00 mm and 20 ± 0.05 to 14 ± 0.08 mm and Salmonella typhimurium (12 ± 00 mm) at a concentration of 100 %. Candida albicans (20 ± 0.07 to 18 ± 0.01 mm), Aspergillus flavus (28 ± 1.41 to 16 ± 0.00 mm) and Aspergillus niger (21 ± 1.01 to 15 ± 0.02) were inhibited at concentrations ranging from 100 to 12.5 %. Bacillus cereus, on the other hand, was resistant to Garcinia kola oil. Based on the findings of this study, Garcinia kola seed oil could be used to extend the shelf life of attiéké.

Toxicity and &lt;i&gt;in vitro&lt;/i&gt; antioxidant potential of &lt;i&gt;Curcuma longa&lt;/i&gt; Linn and &lt;i&gt;Zingiber officinale&lt;/i&gt; Rosc rhizomes in &lt;i&gt;Drosophila melanogaster&lt;/i&gt;

Medicinal plants like Curcuma longa and Zingiber officinale contain phytochemicals which have antioxidant properties. The study evaluated the antioxidant effect of Curcuma longa and Zingiber officinale on the survival of Drosophila melanogaster administered isoniazid. Drosophila melanogaster aged 3-5 days old were exposed to different concentrations (5-1000 mg/ 5 g diet) of isoniazid, and extract for 7 days to determine the lethal concentration (LC50). A 14-day survival assay was performed to evaluate the effect of isoniazid and the herbal extract on the survival rate of Drosophila melanogaster. The antioxidant activity of the herbal extract on the stable 2,2- diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) was also evaluated. The result showed an antioxidant activity greater than that of a standard, silymarin. An increase in survival rate of the fruit flies was observed at the lowest dose of the extract, when compared to those fed diet only. In conclusion, this study provided valuable insights into the antioxidant properties of the herbal extract, highlighting its potential benefits, while further research to elucidate the effects of phytochemicals especially at high doses is necessary. The results also underscore the importance of considering various factors in toxicity assessments as they affect fly survival.

Green synthesis of copper nanoparticles using Citrullus colocynthis leaves extract: photocatalytic, antimicrobial and antioxidant studies

Abstract Considering the ecofriendly aspects of green synthesis, copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) were produced using leaves extract of Citrullus colocynthis (Desert Gourd) as a reducing agent and CuSO4 as a Cu precursor. The characterization of synthesized Cu NPs was performed using various techniques including UV-Visible spectroscopy (UVS), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). The tested NPs (face centered cubic) were determined to possess an average size of 17 ± 4.2 nm with spherical shape which exhibited highest absorption (λ max) at 560 nm. These NPs were assessed for their potential to function as a photocatalyst in degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under UV light and a significant degradation (65 %) of MB dye was observed within irradiation period of 160 min. The Cu NPs displayed a promising antibacterial activity (ABA) against various bacterial cultures such as P. multocida, Botryococcus subtilis, S. aureus and Escherichia coli. While, appreciable antioxidant potential (AP) of tested nanoparticles was also revealed by various invitro antioxidant assays including total phenolic contents (TPC), total flavonoids contents (TFC) and diphenyl picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. The fabrication of Cu NPs through green route, the use of C. colocynthis extract is recommended as an effective antimicrobial, antioxidant and photocatalytic agent as green route offers various advantages over chemical synthesis.

Antioxidant Activity Assay of Eucalyptus pellita Leaf Extract

In pharmacy, eucalyptus leaves are used for various pharmacological activities because they contain phenolic compounds. This study aims to detect phytochemical compounds and test the antioxidant activity of Eucalyptus pellita leaf extract. The dry powder of E. pellita leaves (1900 g) was macerated first with methanol solvent. The concentrated methanol extract was then subjected to partition extraction with n - hexane solvent. The methanol layer was concentrated and then partitioned with ethyl acetate solvent. Methanol extract was obtained as much as 176.75 g (9,30%), n-hexane extract 13.77 g (0.72%), and ethyl acetate extract 27.93g (1.47%). The three extracts were subjected to phytochemical screening, methanol extract and ethyl acetate extract were positive for flavonoids. These three extracts did not contain alkaloids but were positive for tannins and saponins. Antioxidant activity was tested using the DPPH (1,1 diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) method with UV-vis spectrophotometer (max wavelength 517 nm). Sample concentration variations were 12.5; 25; 50; 100; and 200 ppm. Ethyl acetate extract, methanol extract and n - hexane extract have antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 6.811; 17.923; and 31.109 µg/mL, respectively. This shows that E. pellita leaf extract has very strong antioxidant activity and ethyl acetate extract has more antioxidant activity.

Design, synthesis, biological evaluation, and in silico studies of quinoxaline derivatives as potent p38α MAPK inhibitors.

A new series of quinoxaline derivatives possessing the hydrazone moiety were designed, synthesized, and screened for in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity by the bovine serum albumin (BSA) denaturation technique, and for antioxidant activity, by the (2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH) radical scavenging assay. The synthesized compounds were also tested for p38α mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase inhibition. The in-vivo anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema inhibition method. All the compounds (4a-n) exhibited moderate to high in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity. Compound 4a displayed the highest inhibitory activity in the BSA assay (83.42%) in comparison to the standard drug diclofenac sodium (82.90%), while 4d exhibited comparable activity (81.87%). The DPPH assay revealed that compounds 4a and 4d have free radical scavenging potential (74.70% and 74.34%, respectively) comparable to the standard butylated hydroxyanisole (74.09%). Furthermore, the p38α MAP kinase inhibition assay demonstrated that compound 4a is highly selective against p38α MAP kinase (IC50 = 0.042) in comparison to the standard SB203580 (IC50 = 0.044). The five most active compounds (4a-4d and 4f) with good in-vitro profiles were selected for in-vivo anti-inflammatory studies. Compounds 4a and 4d were found to display the highest activity (83.61% and 82.92% inhibition, respectively) in comparison to the standard drug diclofenac sodium (82.65% inhibition). These compounds (4a and 4d) also exhibited better ulcerogenic and lipid peroxidation profiles than diclofenac sodium. The molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies were also performed and found to be in agreement with the p38α MAP kinase inhibitory activity.

Phytochemical and Cytotoxic Properties of Gum and Leaf Extracts of Ferula assafoetida in Breast Cancer

Background &amp; Objectives: Breast cancer, a significant threat to women's health, is associated with a high annual mortality rate. Oxidative stress, characterized by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, plays a pivotal role in cancer development. Ferula assafoetida, a traditional medicinal plant, has been widely used in cancer treatment. This study aims to compare the cytotoxic effects, phytochemical profiles, and antioxidant activities of Ferula assafoetida gum (FAGE) and leaf (FALE) extracts.&#x0D; Materials &amp; Methods: The herbal extracts from FAGE and FALE were prepared using the maceration method in 70% v/v ethanol. The phenolic content and radical scavenging activity of the extracts were assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteu and diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, respectively. The cytotoxic effects of the extracts were examined on the MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines through the MTT assay. Additionally, the morphological changes of the cell lines were observed using an inverted microscope.&#x0D; &#x0D; Results: The phenolic content in FAGE (142.25± 19.35 µgGAE/mg) was significantly higher (P=0.01) than that in FALE (48.15± 3.01 µgGAE/mg). Additionally, the radical scavenging activity and cytotoxic effects of FAGE were also significantly stronger than those of FALE (P&lt; 0.05). Regarding the cytotoxic effects of the extracts, FAGE exhibited IC50 values of 80.59± 10.98 and 59.39± 15.89 µg/mL for MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively, after 72 hours of incubation.&#x0D; Conclusions: FAGE exhibited a greater cytotoxic effect on the MDA-MB-231 cell line than on the MCF-7, possibly following an estrogen-independent pattern. It appears that FAGE holds significant potential in refining oxidative stress, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation.

Macromolecular Design and Engineering of New Amphiphilic N-Vinylpyrrolidone Terpolymers for Biomedical Applications.

New amphiphilic VP-(di)methacrylate terpolymers of different monomer compositions and topologies have been synthesized by radical polymerization in toluene without any growth regulator of polymer chains. Their structures and properties in solid state and water solution were studied by double-detector size-exclusion chromatography; IR-, 1H, and 13C NMR-spectroscopy; DLS, TEM, TG, and DSC methods. The composition of the VP-AlkMA-TEGDM monomer mixture has been established to regulate the topology of the resulting macromolecules. The studied terpolymers presented on TEM images as individual low-contrast particles and their conglomerates of various sizes with highly ordered regions; in general, they are amorphous structures. None of the terpolymers demonstrated cytotoxic effects for noncancerous Vero and tumor HeLa cells. Hydrophobic D-α-tocopherol (TP) was encapsulated in terpolymer nanoparticles (NPs), and its antioxidant activity was evaluated by ABTS (radical monocation 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) or DPPH (2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) methods. The reaction efficiency depends on the TP-NP type. The IC50 values for the decolorization reaction of ABTS•+ and DPPH inhibition in the presence of initial and encapsulated TP were obtained.

Essential oil compositions and antioxidant activity of the fresh leaves of &lt;i&gt;Talinum triangulare&lt;/i&gt; (Jacq.) Willd from Nigeria

Essential oils from the fresh leaves of Talinum triangulare (100 g) growing along Ijesha road, Ago Iwoye, Ijebu north local government area of Ogun State, Nigeria were obtained by hydrodisitllation in an all-glass clevenger type apparatus and the chemical constituents determined by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antioxidant activity of the essential oils was tested with 1,1 diphenyl 2 picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The yield of the essential oils was 0.060% (v/w). A total of thirteen constituents representing 100% of the essential oil were identified from the GC-MS analysis. The major components of T. triangular eessential oil were γ-terpinene (26.34%), dlimonene (16.08%), β-pinene (13.91%), β-bisabolol (12.62%), cyclotrisiloxane hexamethyl (8.18%) and caryophyllene (5.65%). Monoterpenes (61.30%), sesquiterpenoids (14.14%), sesquiterpenes (11.72%) and organosilicon (12.84%) were the classes of compounds identified from the essential oil. The leaves essential oil of T. triangulare displayed potent antioxidant activity with percentage inhibition values of 51.886, 54.209, 58.447, 62.137 and 66.648 at varying concentrations. T.triangulare exhibited the highest inhibition (66.648) at concentration of 0.5 mg/mL as against the standard of 70.36 at similar concentration which also makes it a good antioxidant agent.

Effect of chitosan addition on proximate composition, antioxidant activity, and sensory acceptance of biscuits containing red and purple roselle extract

The purpose of this research was to produce biscuits containing red and purple roselle extract with the addition of chitosan to improve the biscuits’ proximate composition, total phenolic, antioxidant activity, and sensory acceptance. The research used a completely randomized design with seven factors containing red and purple roselle extract, and chitosan, respectively; C1 (0:0:1)%; C2 (10:0:0)%; C3(0:10:0) %; F1(4:6:1)%; F2 (6:4:1)%; F3(4:6:2)%; and F4(6:4:2)%. Proximate composition (moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrate, ash and fibre) was determined using standard methods. The total phenolic content of roselle extract biscuits was measured using the Folin-Ciocalteau method, whereas the determination of antioxidant activity was carried out by applying the 2,2- Diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. The proximate analysis of the biscuits produced high moisture content ranging from 3.25 to 3.94% W/W, protein content from 6.68 to 7.43% W/W, and fat content (19.13-19.74% W/W). The ash content varied from 1.62 to 1.72% W/W, fibre content ranged from 3.32 to 5.06% W/W, and carbohydrate contents were 62.50-65.40% W/W. The concentration of 1% chitosan in the biscuit formulation was also more effective in increasing the phenolic content and antioxidant activity (IC50), respectively 3.36 mg/100 g and 71.81 ppm in the F1 biscuits samples (red roselle 4% and purple 6%). Similarly, in F1 with the addition of 1% chitosan to sample biscuits containing red (4%) and purple (6%) roselle extract, the panellists received good acceptance of the aroma, colour, texture, taste, and overall biscuits made. Biscuits containing 6% purple roselle and 1% chitosan in the formulation could be provided with a significant contribution to increasing total phenol, antioxidant activity, and sensory acceptance compared to the others. Therefore, roselle extract and chitosan can be used as additional biscuit supplements that can increase nutritional content and antioxidant activity.

Some novel bioactivities of Virgibacillus halodenitrificans carotenoids, isolated from Wadi El-Natrun lakes

Carotenoids come in second among the most frequent natural pigments and are utilized in medications, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, food pigments, and feed supplements. Based on recent complementary work, Virgibacillus was announced for the first time as a member of Wadi El-Natrun salt and soda lakes microbiota, identified as Virgibacillus halodenitrificans, and named V. halodenitrificans DASH; hence, this work aimed to investigate several in vitro medicinal bioactivities of V. halodenitrificans DASH carotenoids. The carotenoid methanolic extract showed antioxidant activity based on diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging capacity with a half-maximal concentration (IC50) of 1.6 mg/mL as well as nitric oxide (NO) scavenging action expressed by an IC50 of 46.4 µg/mL. The extract showed considerable inhibitory activity for alpha-amylase (α-amylase) and alpha-glucosidase (α-glucosidase) enzymes (IC50 of 100 and 173.4 μg/mL, respectively). Moreover, the extract displayed selective anticancer activity against Caco-2 (IC50 = 138.96 µg/mL) and HepG-2 cell lines (IC50 = 31.25 µg/mL), representing colorectal adenocarcinoma and hepatoblastoma. Likewise, the extract showed 98.9 % clearance for human hepatitis C virus (HCV) using reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), HCV-NS5B polymerase activity inhibition (IC50 = 27.4 µg/mL), and selective inhibitory activity against human coronavirus (HCoV 229E) using the plaque reduction assay (IC50 = 53.5 µg/mL). As far as we can tell, the anticancer, antiviral, and antidiabetic attributes of Virgibacillus carotenoids are, de novo, reported in this work which accordingly invokes further exploration of the other medicinal, biotechnological, and industrial applications of Virgibacillus and haloalkaliphilic bacteria carotenoids.