DPPH Radical Scavenging Research Articles

Phytofabrication of Selenium-Silver Bimetallic Nanoparticles Using Echinacea purpurea Extract: Characterization and Antioxidant Activity

The phytofabrication of selenium-silver bimetallic nanoparticles (Se-Ag BNPs) utilizing Echinacea purpurea aqueous extract is investigated in this study. The synthesis process is characterized by a visible color change to dark reddish brown, a sign indicating successful nanoparticle formation. UV-visible spectrum analysis confirms the presence of SeNPs and AgNPs with absorption maxima at 268 nm and 325 nm, respectively. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns reveal the crystalline structure of the synthesized Se-Ag BNPs, exhibiting characteristic peaks consistent with metallic silver and selenium nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis showcases the diverse morphological structures of the Se-Ag BNPs, predominantly spherical but also featuring hexagonal and oval shapes. The average particle size is determined to be 33.38 nm, indicating uniformity and stability. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of Se-Ag BNPs are evaluated through DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays, demonstrating dose-dependent scavenging capabilities with IC50 values of 264.78 µg/mL and 344.19 µg/mL, respectively. These findings underscore the potential of Se-Ag BNPs as effective antioxidants, offering promising applications in various fields such as biomedicine and environmental remediation. Comparisons with previous studies highlight the efficacy of the biosynthesis method using Echinacea purpurea extract in producing Se-Ag BNPs with superior antioxidant activity.

Synthesis and antioxidant activity of gallic acid based fluorescent benzothiazole analogue: Photophysical, electrochemical, conceptual DFT, QTAIM and docking investigations

The present investigation reports on the synthesis of a novel 3,4,5-trihydroxy-N-(6‑methoxy benzo[d]thiazol-2-yl)benzamide (TMTB) molecule and employs elemental analysis, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectrum methods to determine the structure of the desired product. The experimental and theoretical absorption and emission spectra of the molecules are used to study the photophysical properties of the TMTB molecule. We investigate the in vitro antioxidant activity of TMTB using DPPH and superoxide radical scavenging assays, as well as molecular docking experiments with the target NAD(P)H oxidase (PDB ID: 2CDU) protein. To ascertain the energies of the LUMO and HOMO levels, NLO behaviour, intermolecular charge transport facilitated by global chemical reactivity descriptors, molecular electrostatic potentials (MEP), and hyperpolarizability analyses, an investigation was carried out on their conceptual DFT and QTAIM analyses operating under B3LYP/6–31 G. The simulated DFT calculation shows that TMTB is highly polarizable in both the gas and solvent phases, with HOMO-LUMO energy gaps of 4.18 and 4.24 eV, respectively. Total first and second hyperpolarizability values for TMTB in the gas phase were determined to be 155.09 × 10–30 and 3611.59 × 10–36 esu, respectively, whereas in the DMSO phase the values were 556.15 × 10–30 and 6223.79 × 10–36 esu. Computational studies results corroborate the experimental findings. Based on the photophysical and computational findings, the newly reported TMTB molecule was determined to be a promising candidate for additional optimization and use in optoelectronic devices.

Recovery of Phenolic Compounds by Deep Eutectic Solvents in Orange By-Products and Spent Coffee Grounds

Orange and coffee grounds by-products, rich in phenolic bioactive compounds, can be used in the food industry as antioxidants, colorants, flavorings and additives, mainly because they are solvents that are easy to prepare, have a lower cost, are thermally stable, biodegradable, renewable, and are considered GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). Deep eutectic solvents, which are sustainable and have lower melting points, are effective for extracting these compounds. This study aimed to evaluate the use of deep eutectic solvents (DES) in extracting Total Phenolic Compounds (TPC), from orange by-products and spent coffee grounds. DES formed by citric acid: mannitol (CM-DES), and lactic acid: glucose (LG-DES), were evaluated by varying the following parameters: water content (10–50%), solid–liquid ratio (1:5–1:50 w/w) and temperature (40–50 °C). DES citric acid: mannitol presented the best efficiency in the extraction of TPC under the conditions of 10% water, 80 °C, and solid–liquid ratio 1:10 (w/w) for the orange by-products (1782.92 ± 4.50 mg GAE/L) and 1:15 (w/w) for spent coffee grounds (1620.71 ± 3.72 mg GAE/L). The highest antioxidant activity was observed in the extraction with CM-DES for both by-products in the three methods evaluated: Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) (1.087 ± 0.004 and 1.071 ± 0.006 mol ascorbic acid/L), DPPH radical scavenging activity (2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidrazil—DPPH) (0.233 ± 0.003 and 0.234 ± 0.001 mol Trolox equivalent/L), and radical cation scavenging activity ABTS (2,2-azino-bis (3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid—ABTS) (0.284 ± 7.16 and 0.319 ± 0.002 mol Trolox equivalent/L). Therefore, DES with citric acid: mannitol is a promising alternative to conventional solvents to recover phenolic compounds in agro-industrial by-products, such as orange by-products and SCG.

Investigating the Therapeutic Property of Galium verum L. (GV) for MSG induced Audiogenic Epilepsy (AEs) and Neuroprotection through In-Silico and In-Vitro Analysis.

Audiogenic Epilepsy (AEs) is a subtype of epileptic seizure that is generally caused by high-intensity sounds. A large number of traditional medicines has been explored in this lieu where our study chased Galium verum L. (Rubiaceae), an herbal plant which is commonly known as Lady's Bedstraw, that contains a highly rich chemical composition including flavonoids (Hispidulin, Quercetin, and Kaempferol), and phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, caftaric acid, and gallic acid). G verum is well known for its antioxidant, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. Recently, the unique role of Adhesion G Protein- Coupled Receptor V1 (ADGRV1) protein in the progression of audiogenic epilepsy has been explored. This study aimed to examine the potent phytoconstituents of the hydroalcoholic extract of G. verum L. (HEGV) using analytical techniques. Additionally, our study sought to evaluate the antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory properties, and antiepileptic potency of HEGV by targeting ADGRV1 via in silico and in vitro analyses using SHSY5Y cells. HPLC and LC-MS techniques were employed to identify the flavonoids, iridoids, and phenolic acid derivatives present in HEGV. DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), nitric oxide (NO), and hydroxyl (OH) radical scavenging assays were performed to confirm the antioxidant potential of the extract. Additionally, in silico molecular docking and molecular dynamic studies were performed using AutoDock Vina software to analyze the possible interactions between crucial phytoconstituents of HEGV and ADGRV1, followed by cell line analysis. In the in vitro analysis, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties were assessed via cell viability assay, IL, GABA, and glutamate estimation. LC-MS and HPLC analyses revealed high concentrations of hispidulin, a major flavonoid found in HEGV. HEGV exhibited moderate-to-high free radical-scavenging activities comparable to those of ascorbic acid. Docking analysis demonstrated that hispidulin has a stronger binding affinity with ADGRV1 (Vina score = -8.6 kcal/mol) than other compounds. Furthermore, cell line analysis revealed that the MSG exacerbates the neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, whereas, HEGV and Hispidulin both possess neuroprotective, antioxidant, and antiepileptic activities. HEGV and Hispidulin proved to be promising candidates for treating audiogenic epilepsy by modulating ADGRV1.

Carbon Dots-Mediated Photodynamic Treatment Reduces Postharvest Senescence and Decay of Grapes by Regulating the Antioxidant System.

Grapes are susceptible to mold and decay during postharvest storage, and developing new technologies to extend their storage period has important application value. Photodynamic technology (PDT) in concurrence with carbon dots (CDs) proposes an innovative and eco-friendly preservation strategy. We examined the effects of carbon dots combined with photodynamic treatment on postharvest senescence and antioxidant system of table grape. The compounding of photodynamic technology with a 0.06 g L-1 CDs solution could possibly extend the postharvest storage period of grape berries. Through this strategy, we achieved a decreased rate of fruit rotting and weight loss alongside the delayed deterioration of fruit firmness, soluble solids, and titratable acid. As paired with photodynamic technology, CDs considerably decreased the postharvest storage loss of phenols, flavonoids, and reducing sugars as compared to the control group. Concurrently, it remarkably postponed the build-up of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide anion (O2∙-), and malondialdehyde (MDA); elevated the levels of reduced ascorbic acid (AsA) and reduced glutathione (GSH); lowered the levels of dehydroascorbic acid (DHA) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG); raised the ratios of AsA/DHA and GSSH/GSSG; encouraged the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL); and inhibited the activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and lipoxygenase (LOX). Furthermore, it enhanced the iron reduction antioxidant capacity (FRAP) and DPPH radical scavenging capacity of grape berries. CDs combined with photodynamic treatment could efficiently lessen postharvest senescence and decay of grape berry while extending the storage time.

Cytotoxicity, pro-inflammatory cytokines gene expression and antioxidant activity of Acmella oleracea extract treated with active charcoal

This work reports for the first time the evaluation of the cytotoxicity and inflammatory potential of Acmella oleracea extract treated with active charcoal in THP-1 monocytes. A. oleracea flower ethanolic extract was treated with 4% activated charcoal (TCEE). Later, THP-1 human monocyte cytotoxicity assay was performed using resazurin fluorometric method. Gene expression of inflammatory cytokines in THP-1 cells were evaluated through RT-PCR by ΔΔCt method using IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF genes primers. Finally, antioxidant assay was carried out with DPPH radical scavenging method. TCEE had a LD50 of 592.5 µg/mL and did not induce pro-inflammatory gene expression in THP-1 cells after 6 h of treatment. Lastly, TCEE (AA% of 69.4 ± 1.4%) and CEE (AA% of 63.0 ± 0.9%) showed moderate antioxidant activity. A. oleracea treated flower extract showed low cytotoxicity in THP-1 monocytes and does not induce inflammation in THP-1 cells, in addition to presenting antioxidant potential.

Evaluation of Proximate, Phytochemicals, Antioxidant Capacity, Enzymatic Inhibition, and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Avocado Seed Meal as Potential Feed Additive

This study examined the proximate composition, phytochemical profile, antioxidant capacity, enzymatic inhibition, and anti-inflammatory properties of avocado seed meal. The proximate analysis revealed that avocado seed meal is rich in protein (17.32%), fat (15.33%), and carbohydrates (48.73%), with moderate levels of moisture (10.26%), ash (2.39%), and crude fiber (5.97%). Phytochemical analysis indicated high contents of phenols (111.56 mg/g), saponins (96.94 mg/g) and flavonoids (66.66 mg/g), but lower levels of alkaloids (14.60 mg/g), tannins (1.17 mg/g), and steroids (0.89 mg/g). The antioxidant properties assessed showed significant DPPH (50.05%) and FRAP (63.04%) free radical scavenging activities, though lower inhibition of lipid peroxidation (34.88%) and vitamin C content (0.03 mg/g). Enzymatic inhibition assays demonstrated alpha-lipase, alpha-glucosidase, and alpha-amylase inhibition rates of 31.46%, 27.56%, and 50.88%, respectively. Anti-inflammatory properties were also notable, with 24.02% albumin denaturation inhibition and 37.99% antiprotease activity. These findings suggest that avocado seed meal holds considerable potential for nutritional and therapeutic applications as natural feed supplement for livestock and humans.

New Bioactive Polyketides from the Mangrove-Derived Fungus Penicillium sp. SCSIO 41411.

Three new polyketides, including three ester derivatives (1, 3, and 5) and a new natural product, which was a benzoquinone derivative, embelin A (4), together with nine known ones (2 and 6-13), were isolated from the mangrove-derived fungus Penicillium sp. SCSIO 41411. Their structures were determined by detailed NMR and MS spectroscopic analyses. The X-ray single-crystal diffraction analysis of 4 was described for the first time. Compound 9 displayed obvious inhibition against PDE4 with an inhibitory ratio of 40.78% at 10 μM. Compound 12 showed DPPH radical scavenging activity, with an EC50 of 16.21 µg/mL, compared to the positive control (ascorbic acid, EC50, 11.22 µg/mL). Furthermore, compound 4 exhibited cytotoxicity against PC-3 and LNCaP with IC50 values of 18.69 and 31.62 µM, respectively.

Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Activities of Ssammoo added with Natural Food Colorants

In this study, the color of ssammoo was to created in an addition of gardenia powder(GPR), citron powder(CPR), strawberry powder(SPR), and actinidia arguta powder(APR), respectivery. Ssammoo was collected on the 0<sup>th</sup>, 3<sup>rd</sup>, 7<sup>th</sup>, and 14<sup>th</sup> days of stored at 5℃. The pH of the control group and ssammoo with the actinidia arguta powder was significantly lowered over time(<i>p</i><.001). The acidity was significantly decreased in the case of ssammoo with actinidia arguta powder(<i>p</i><.05). The sugar content of all ssammoos increased due to osmotic pressure as the ripening period increased. The L value was the highest in the control group and increased over time(<i>p</i><.001). The a and b value were the highest in ssammoo with gardenia powder(<i>p</i><.001). The ΔE increased until the 7th day of storage and then decreased, suggesting that there would be a change in color value of all ssammoos after the 7<sup>th</sup> day of storage. The total phenol content and DPPH radical scavenging activity was highest in ssammoo with gardenia powder. The ABTS radical scavenging activity was highest in ssammoo with strawberry powder. This study intended to contribute to increasing the intake of vegetables and fruits with high dietary fiber content by developing colored salted and pickled foods.

Mineral Element and Antioxidant Potential of Four Plants Used in Traditional Medecine in Brazzaville-Congo

Background: Plants represent an important natural resource of secondary metabolites with therapeutic properties and nutrients, including minerals, which contribute to the proper functioning and well-being of the human body. Aims: Four medicinal plants used in Congo-Brazzaville were selected in order to determine their mineral element content and assess their antioxidant activity. Methodology: Mineral element content were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry with flame and flameless. The antioxidant activity assessed, using the DPPH radical scavenging test and iron reducing capacity (FRAP). Results: Eight (08) macroelements and five (05) trace elements from these plants have been quantified. The antioxidant potential showed that organic extracts were more active than aqueous extracts. However, this antioxidant potential remains low compared to that of ascorbic acid used as the reference antioxidant. Garcinia kola (seeds) and Ageratum conyzoides (leafy stems) were rich in mineral elements. Similarly, Cogniauxia podoleana (leaves) and Garcinia kola (seeds) showed remarkable antioxidant potential. Conclusion: The presence of thirteen mineral elements and the antioxidant potential are proved in these plants. Would therefore help to maintain the immunity of the human body by resisting various pathologies such as bacterial infections, malaria, inflammations and gastrointestinal disorders.

Physicochemical Characteristics, Phenolic Components, and Antioxidant Capacities of Lavender Honey (Lavandula Spp.) from Isparta Region of Türkiye.

Lavender honey is one of the most desirable blossom honeys for its unique taste and aromatic qualities and can vary significantly from one region to another. In this study, melissopalynological, physicochemical and antioxidant properties of lavender honey from the Isparta region of Türkiye were investigated. The ration of the Lavandula spp. pollen were identified ranging from 9 % to 76 % in the thirteen samples. The average pH, conductivity, moisture, Hunter Lab* and proline values were 3.72, 0.22 mS/cm, 17.17 %, L*: 66.56, a*: 66.32, b*:18.41 and 576.92 mg/kg, respectively. The average F+G and F/G were 67.66 % and 1.02, respectively. The average of total phenolic (TP) and flavonoid (TF) substance were found to be 39.40 mg GAE/100 g and 3.23 mg QUE/100 g, respectively. The average total antioxidant capacity (FRAP) and DPPH radical scavenging activity values were found to be 178.28 μmol FeSO4 ⋅ 7H2O/100 g and 53.09 mg/mL, respectively. In the phenolic component analysis performed with HPLC-PDA, p-OH-benzoic acid, p-coumaric acid, chrysin and pinocembrin were detected as common polyphenols in the samples. Conclusively, despite considerable variability in their monofloral characteristics, no significant differences were observed in the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of lavender honeys.

Comparative studies on characterizations and cytotoxicity of oil extracted from Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum) G2 spore using Soxhlet extraction and microwave-assisted extraction

This study aimed to compare the characteristics, antioxidant activity, and cytotoxicity of Ganoderma lucidum G2 spore (GLS) oil extracted using two different extraction methods, including Soxhlet extraction (SLE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). The SLE method yielded higher oil content than the MAE method. MAE-extracted oil showed higher lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*) values but lower redness (a*) values. Both methods provided similar fatty acid compositions in GLS oils, including palmitic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid as major components. Higher saturated fatty acid content was found in SLE-extracted oil, while MAE-extracted oil had increased levels of mono- and poly-unsaturated fatty acids. The oil obtained from SLE showed slightly higher di- and tri-glycerides than that obtained from MAE (P < 0.05). Furthermore, MAE-extracted oil had high oxidative stability as indicated by lower levels of conjugated diene (CD), peroxide value (PV), thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), and free fatty acids (FFA) as compared to SLE (P < 0.05). MAE-extracted oil had a higher total triterpenoid content than SLE-extracted oil (P < 0.05). Also, MAE-extracted oil showed lower DPPH radical scavenging activity (DPPH-RSA) than SLE-extracted oil (P < 0.05). FTIR spectra of both samples exhibited similar functional groups. Additionally, oils obtained from both processes (at 0.1–10 µg/mL) showed low toxicity on Caco-2 cells (P > 0.05). Therefore, GLS oil with high antioxidant activity and oxidative stability, especially oil extracted by MAE, could be a food supplement for health. Also, the MAE used was a potential implement for extracting oil from GLS.

Effect of ultrasound on the characterization and peptidomics of foxtail millet bran protein hydrolysates

Protein hydrolysates have attracted much attention for their high biological activity and are a crucial product form for the utilization of foxtail millet bran by-products. In this study, changes in the structure, functionality, activity and peptide profile of foxtail millet bran protein hydrolysates (FMBPHs) at different ultrasound powers (0 – 600 W) were investigated. The results showed that ultrasound promoted the transformation of α-helix and β-sheet to random coils and β-turn, and the exposure of hydrophobic groups and sulfhydryl groups in FMBPHs. The average particle size of the samples decreased, and the absolute value of the ζ-potential increased significantly. Simultaneously, smaller porous particles and loose fragments appeared on the surface of FMBPHs when the ultrasonic power was increased to 450 W. Additionally, 450 W ultrasound treatment improved solubility, foaming properties, emulsifying properties, thermal stability of FMBPHs. The DPPH, ABTS and hydroxyl radical scavenging ability (IC50, 2.65, 1.06 and 3.02 mg/mL), Fe2+ chelating activity (IC50, 2.62 mg/mL), and reducing power of the samples were also enhanced. The peptidomics results demonstrated that ultrasonication increased the number of active peptides in the hydrolysate, and the relative abundance of 17 active peptides was obviously elevated at 450 W. Peptide map analysis showed that ultrasound-induced structural modifications affected the peptide profiles of Ubiquitin-like domain-containing protein, Cupin type-1 domain-containing protein, 40S ribosomal protein S19, and Oleosin 1, showing changes in the abundance of certain peptides, which may be related to changes in the characterization of FMBPHs.

Prospecting of the Antioxidant Activity from Extracts Obtained from Chañar (Geoffroea decorticans) Seeds Evaluated In Vitro and In Vivo Using the Tenebrio molitor Model.

Geoffroea decorticans, commonly known as Chañar, is a native Chilean plant widely used in folk medicine for its expectorant, pain relief, and antinociceptive properties. This study explored the antioxidant, cytotoxic, and protective effects of its ethanolic (EE) and aqueous (EA) seed extracts against oxidative stress induced by copper sulfate, using both in vitro and in vivo approaches. Phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the extracts. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) coupled with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) identified significant components such as phytol, alpha-tocopherol, vitexin, and rutin, with the EE being particularly rich in phytol and vitexin. Antioxidant assays-measuring the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reducing power, DPPH radical scavenging, and copper and iron chelation-confirmed their potent antioxidant capabilities. Both extracts were non-cytotoxic and provided protection against CuSO4-induced oxidative stress in the 3T3 cell line. Additionally, the use of Tenebrio molitor as an invertebrate model underscored the extracts' antioxidant and protective potentials, especially that of the EE. In conclusion, this study highlights the significant antioxidant and protective properties of Chañar seed extracts, particularly the ethanolic extract, in both in vitro and in vivo models.

Significant contribution of amino acids to antioxidant capacity of Japanese rice wine (sake).

Various antioxidant components have been reported in Japanese rice wine (sake), while the contribution ratio of each component to the antioxidant capacity of whole sake has not been well understood. In this study, we evaluated the radical absorption capacity (H-ORAC and/or DPPH radical scavenging ability) and antioxidant components of commercially available sake, and estimated the major components contributing to antioxidant capacity. Water-soluble components with a molecular weight of less than 3000 contributed more than 90% to H-ORAC of sake by measuring the ultrafiltered fraction. The Maillard reaction seemed to have little influence on H-ORAC by browning experiments. The radical absorption capacity of sake showed a strong positive correlation with the amounts of four antioxidant amino acids (Cys, Met, Tyr, Trp) and two phenolic acids (ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid). Evaluating H-ORAC of a sake model solution composed of these antioxidants revealed that the four amino acids showed a clearly higher contribution (25.7-58.2%) than the phenolic acids. In addition, there was a slight synergistic effect when the four amino acids were mixed, whereas such effects were not seen when mixed with the phenolic acids and other sake major components (organic acids, glucose and ethanol). We concluded that the contribution of free amino acids to the radical absorption capacity is quite important in sake. These findings will provide a new perspective for antioxidant researches of sake and many fermented foods. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Preparation of Passion Fruit Peel Extract/Polydopamine/Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose Film and Its Application in Banana Preservation

ABSTRACTThe objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of blending passion fruit peel extract (PFPE) with polydopamine (PDA) solution and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) to prepare the properties of PFPE/PDA/HPMC composite films for their application in fruit and vegetable packaging. PFPE was extracted by ultrasonic‐assisted extraction method, which is simple, easy to operate and has high extraction efficiency, PFPE and dopamine were subjected to PFPE/PDA solution preparation, which in turn led to the preparation of HPMC, PFPE/PDA/HPMC films at different concentrations (0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%), and 10% PDA/HPMC and PFPE/HPMC films were prepared with PDA and PFPE solutions, respectively. The interactions between the components in the films were analysed by infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffractometer, and the colour, mechanical properties, barrier properties and antioxidant activity of the films were determined. The results showed that the addition of PFPE/PDA solution had a positive effect on the performance of the films. The tensile strength of the composite films was 8.21 MPa, the elongation at break was 85.02% and the water vapour transmission was 2.62 × 10−14 g·mm/(cm2·h·Pa) when the content of PFPE/PDA was 20% compared to that of HPMC films; the DPPH radical scavenging rate and hydroxyl radical scavenging rate of the films increased with the increase of PFPE/PDA concentration, and the DPPH radical scavenging rate of the film with 20% additive was 28.71% and the hydroxyl radical scavenging rate was 34.77%, which were much higher than that of the HPMC film. The simulated bananas were stored at room temperature together with the films and stored at 25°C and tested every day, and it was found that the bananas without packaging film began to show browning on the third day, while the film with 20% additive still did not show obvious browning on the fifth day, so the addition of PFPE/PDA could effectively delay the browning of bananas and prolong their shelf life. In summary, this study improves the use value of passion fruit peel waste and provides new effective packaging for fresh bananas, while it can also provide a new way for the development of degradable films from plant extracts.

An Eco-Friendly Approach for the Synthesis of Ni/NiO/g-C3N4 Nanocomposite Using Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract for Biomedical and Photocatalytic Applications

The (Ni/NiO)[Formula: see text]/g-C3N4 nanocomposite was green synthesized using Cleome gynandra via sol–gel method. The photocatalytic dye decomposition, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the nanocomposite were studied and compared with those of (Ni/NiO)[Formula: see text] and g-C3N4. The nanocomposite exhibited enhanced photocatalytic efficiency of 97% compared to (Ni/NiO)[Formula: see text] (63%) and g-C3N4 (80%) due to the synergistic effect between both the composite partners. The nanocomposite, (Ni/NiO)[Formula: see text]/g-C3N4 showed notable antioxidant activity in DPPH (IC[Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL with 87.06% of inhibition at 500[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL) and ABTS (IC[Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL with 88.40 % of inhibition at 500[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL) radical scavenging assays. The green synthesized nanocomposite also exhibited significant antidiabetic activity in [Formula: see text]-amylase and [Formula: see text]-glucosidase enzyme inhibition assays with the IC[Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/mL, respectively. The XRD and SEM analyses confirmed the nanocomposite formation of (Ni/NiO)[Formula: see text]/g-C3N4. The results showed that the green synthesized (Ni/NiO)[Formula: see text]/g-C3N4 has desirable dye degradation, antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. This paper presents the results of the remarkable photocatalytic dye decomposition, antidiabetic and antioxidant properties of the nanocomposite (Ni/NiO)[Formula: see text]/g-C3N4 synthesized via an eco-friendly greeny way using Cleome gynandra leaf extract which may be the first report of this kind utilizing this plant.

Utilization of Germinated Seeds as Functional Food Ingredients: Optimization of Nutrient Composition and Antioxidant Activity Evolution Based on the Germination Characteristics of Chinese Chestnut (Castanea mollissima).

The current study investigated the impact of germination duration on the functional components (vitamin C, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), polyphenols, flavonoids) and antioxidant activity of germs and cotyledons of the germinated Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima). We utilized seeds of the "Zaofeng" Chinese chestnut to germinate, and sowed the seeds in wet sand at 22 °C and 85% relative humidity. The germination rate, length, diameter, and fresh weight of the sprouts were investigated at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 days after sowing, and the kinetic changes of amylose, amylopectin, sugar components, soluble protein, vitamin C, GABA, total phenols, flavonoids, and the DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging activity in the germs and cotyledons were monitored, respectively. The findings revealed that the germination rate and germ biomass increased continuously during germination. The germination rate reached 90% on the 8th day after sowing. Germination reduced amylose in cotyledons from 42.3% to 34.2%, amylopectin from 42.9% to 25.8%, total sugar from 12.6% to 11.4%, and vitamin C from 1.45 mg/g to 0.77 mg/g. Meanwhile, soluble protein in the embryos rose from 0.31% to 0.60%, vitamin C from 21.1 to 29.4 mg/g, GABA from 0.49 to 1.68 mg/g, total flavonoids from 53.6 to 129.7 mg/g, and ABTS antioxidant activity from 1.52 to 3.27 μmol TE/g. The average contents of D-fructose, inositol, vitamin C, GABA, polyphenols, and flavonoids and the DPPH and ABTS antioxidant activity in germs were as high as 22.5, 6, 35, 7.5, 10, 20, and 10 and 20-fold those of cotyledons, respectively. Especially, the average content of glucose in germ was as high as 80-fold that of cotyledon. D-xylulose, D-galacturonic acid, and D-ribose were only found in germs, but not in cotyledons. Considering the germ biomass and functional components content, germs of Chinese chestnuts germinated at 22 °C for 8 days are considered the most suitable raw material for functional food products. In conclusion, controlled germination not only enhances the physicochemical and functional properties of Chinese chestnut germs but also reduces the caloric content and improves the nutritional composition of the cotyledons appropriately. Moreover, the comprehensive evaluation of compositional changes and functionality in the embryo and cotyledon of Chinese chestnuts will provide a solid foundation for subsequent functional food processing utilizing germinated Chinese chestnuts.

Phytochemical characterization, biochemical profiling and evaluation of anticancer potential of methanolic extract of Withania somnifera stem.

Phytotherapy employs phytoconstituents/phytomedicines derived from plants for treating and preventing illnesses. Withania somnifera is known in the Indian Ayurveda Pharmacopoeia for its medicinal applications and pharmacological properties. In this study, we examined the biological activity spectrum of Withania somnifera methanolic extract of stem (WSME), which is valued as a "Rasayana" due to its extensive range of medicinal uses. WSME was subjected to TPC and TFC quantification and bioactive components were characterized using LC-MS. Its antioxidant potential was gauged by DPPH and H2O2 radical scavenging assays, while antibacterial efficacy was assessed against S.aureus and E.coli using disc diffusion assay. In vitro anticancer activity was evaluated against human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells while toxicity was evaluated against normal Vero cells using MTT assay. WSME, rich in Withaferin A, showed TPC of 4.73±0.15 mg GAE/g and TFC of 94.94±6.15 mg QE/g dry weight of extract. It exhibited significant antioxidant activity (43.28 and 66.8 % inhibition at 1,000 μg/mL using DPPH and H2O2 assays, respectively) and mild antibacterial effects against S.aureus (300-500 mg/mL). WSME induced cell death in MDA-MB-231 cells and significantly inhibited their growth (IC50: 66 μg/mL, P value<0.05) without affecting normal Vero cells in the studied range of 25-400 μg/mL (IC50: 6.09 mg/mL, P value>0.05). The present study lends support to further testing of WSME against other cancer cell lines and animal models of cancer. These preclinical studies would provide further validation to its prospective use as an adjunct in human breast cancer therapy.

Biocompatible melanin from the marine black yeast Hortaea werneckii R23 with antioxidant and photoprotection property.

Pigments from diverse sources have a great deal of interest due to its multifaceted applications. Hence, this study reports the physicochemical and functional characterization of the black pigment melanin from the marine black yeast Hortaea werneckii R23. In the present study, Hortaea werneckii R23, produced a black pigment in the yeast biomass. The pigment was extracted from the harvested yeast biomass and followed by pigment purification, characterization and identification was done. Physicochemical characterization of the pigment showed acid precipitation, alkali solubilization, insolubility in most organic solvents and water. The black pigment was confirmed as melanin based on ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared, and Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy analyses. Furthermore, the analyses of the elemental composition indicated that the pigment possessed a moderately high percentage of nitrogen and also detectable proportion of sulfur. All these Physicochemical properties indicated that H. werneckii melanin (HwM) mostly consisted of eumelanin. HwM exhibited strong antioxidant potential as reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger by in vitro DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2-azinobis-3-ethyl-benzothiozoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical scavenging assay, and lipid peroxidation assay. The photoprotectant role of HwM on UV-irradiated human epithelial cells (HEp-2) revealed its potential effect in photoprotection. In addition, cytotoxicity study by XTT and SRB assay confirmed its biocompatibility with HEp-2 cells. From these findings, it is evident that the HwM from the marine black yeast possesses strong antioxidant and photoprotectant activity, moreover, it is biocompatible to human epithelial cells. So HwM could be used as a protective agent against oxidative stress associated disorders in an environment-friendly perspective.