Dynamic Maceration Research Articles

Optimizing Echinodorus macrophyllus extracts: Assessing extraction conditions for chemical marker enrichment and evaluating inhibitory effects on cytokines release by THP-1 cells

This study investigated various extractive methods and solvents with the goal of producing standardized extracts of Echinodorus macrophyllus for future industrial applications. Extracts were prepared through percolation, dynamic maceration, and static maceration, utilizing 96°GL ethanol (EtOH) and hydroethanolic solutions (90% EtOH, 70% EtOH, and 50% EtOH) as solvents. The highest extraction yields were achieved with 70% EtOH and 50% EtOH across all extractive methods. Both percolation and static maceration produced 50% and 70% EtOH extracts with elevated concentrations of chemical markers (cis- and trans-aconitic acids, homoorientin, chicoric acid, swertisin, caffeoyl-feruloyl-tartaric acid, and di-feruloyl-tartaric acid) and demonstrated superior inhibition rates of TNF and IL-1β release by LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells. Notably, these extracts were obtained in the form of fine powders, distinguishing them from extracts derived from 96°GL EtOH and 90% EtOH solutions. While the 50% EtOH and 70% EtOH extracts prepared by percolation or static maceration exhibited similar chemical composition and biological effects, percolation emerged as the preferred technique due to its ability to generate larger extract volumes. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed robust correlations between these extracts and the contents of chemical markers but did not unveil significant correlations between higher marker contents and the inhibition of TNF and IL-1β release by THP-1 cells. These findings provide a basis for the future production of high-quality herbal preparations, emphasizing the critical role of extraction methods and solvent selection in pharmaceutical applications.

Bioactive dry extract production from Hymenaea courbaril L. bark via spouted bed drying

AbstractThe work aims to develop and optimize a powdered phytopharmaceutical product from the stem bark of Hymenaea courbaril L. (jatobá) by the spouted bed drying. The study commenced with the extraction of bioactive compounds present in the plant raw material by dynamic maceration using ethanol/water 70% (v/v) at a temperature of 50°C for 60 min, for the ratio stem bark: solvent mass of 1:10 (w/w). The extract quality was assessed by quantifying chemical markers via spectrophotometry (total polyphenols and tannins) and through antioxidant activity by 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The extractive solution was concentrated, added with drying adjuvant, and submitted to spouted bed drying. Product quality was evaluated by moisture content (Xp), water activity (aW), powder diameter, total polyphenols, and tannins content (PT and TT), and antioxidant activity, expressed as the extract concentration needed to reduce 50% of the DDPH radical (IC50). Spouted bed drying performance was evaluated through the drying yield (REC), product accumulation (Ac), and thermal efficiency (η). The optimal processing conditions were: inlet gas temperature, Tgi: 150°C, the ratio of the mass feed flow rate of the concentrated extract to the evaporation capacity of the dryer, Ws/Wmax: 45%, and the drying gas flow rate relative to minimum spouting, Q/Qms: 1.85. Under these conditions, it is predicted to obtain a dried extract with Xp = 4.9% w/w, PT = 26.0% w/w, REC = 77.7% w/w, η = 44.3%, and Ac = 10% w/w, with adequate values of aW, TT, and high antioxidant activity.

GC/MS and 2D NMR-based approach to evaluate the chemical profile of hydroalcoholic extract from Agaricus blazei Murill and its anti-inflammatory effect on human neutrophils

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAgaricus blazei Murill (AbM) is one of the main mushrooms used for medicinal purposes. The use of AbM in the preparation of teas is widespread mainly in Asian countries, while in Brazil it is used as a functional food to combat inflammatory diseases and cancer. Aim of the studyThe main focus of this study was the characterization of the chemical profile of the hydroalcoholic extract of Agaricus blazei Murill (AbE), as well as the evaluation of its cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory potential using human neutrophils. Materials and methodsThe extract was prepared by dynamic maceration using a mixture of ethanol and water (70/30, v v−1) as solvent. The chemical profile characterization was carried out by 2D NMR and GC-MS techniques. The cytotoxicity of AbE was evaluated through studies of hemolytic potential, cell viability and membrane integrity. The anti-inflammatory activity was analyzed by a PMA-induced neutrophil degranulation assay. ResultsChemical analysis of AbE revealed the presence of 28 metabolites in its composition, with mannitol as the major compound. AbE at 1–200 μg mL−1 and mannitol at 4–160 μg mL−1, showed low hemolytic and cytotoxic potential against human red blood cells and neutrophils. Furthermore, both were able to significantly reduce the release of myeloperoxidase. ConclusionsThese results indicate that AbE is a promising natural product to be incorporated into pharmaceutical dosage forms intended for the adjuvant treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Broccoli Leaves (Brassica oleracea var. Italica) as a Source of Bioactive Compounds and Chemical Building Blocks: Optimal Extraction Using Dynamic Maceration and Life Cycle Assessment

Bioactive compounds (BACs) and chemical building blocks (CBBs) play a pivotal role in driving economic growth. These compounds, known for their diverse applications in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and manufacturing, have become integral to meeting the increasing demand for sustainable and innovative products. In this research, we used and characterized dynamic maceration to extract BACs and CBBs from broccoli leaves (BLs). A central composite design (CCD) was selected to evaluate the effect of temperature (from 4 °C to 70 °C), ethanol concentration (from 30% to 70% (v/v)), and exposition time (15 to 60 min) on total phenolic content (TPC) (mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAEs) per 100 g of dry biomass (db)). A confirmation experiment (CE) was performed to reproduce the optimal conditions (50 °C, 36.92 min, and 30% (v/v)) for BAC extraction. Results indicated a GAE concentration of 112.95 ± 0.92 mg/100 g db, while the statistical model predicted a value of 111.87 mg of GAEs/100 g db (error of 0.95%) with a rate constant (k) value of 0.0154 mg/g·min (R2 of 0.9894). BACs and CBBs were identified with gas chromatography–electron impact mass spectrometry detecting l-isoleucine, l-leucine, malonic acid, and succinic acid, among others. Finally, a life cycle inventory (LCI) was developed to determine global warming (GW) and water consumption (WC), among others, for 10 g of BL extract. Findings reported herein prove the sustainability of eco-friendly extraction of BACs and CBBs for the effective use of agricultural by-products.

A green approach for genistein and apigenin extraction optimization from by-products of soybean crops

Soybeans’ genistein and its isomer apigenin are widely studied bioactive compounds owing to their therapeutic potential for treating various health disfunctions. A green extraction of both from soy by-products could lead to a valuable and sustainable approach to adding value to these materials in a biorefinery context. Here Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSP) and the Conductor-like Screening MOdel for Real Solvents (COSMO-RS) were applied to screen green molecular solvents and Natural Eutectic Solvents for the extraction of genistein and apigenin from soy by-products. The predicted solubilities of genistein and apigenin in 18 shortlisted candidates were experimentally tested by dynamic maceration, the most industrially implemented natural products extraction technique. EtOH:H2O (8:2, v/v) and natural eutectic solvent (NAES) betaine:ethylene glycol (1:2, mol/mol) showed the highest performance. These were selected for extraction optimizations by Design of Experiments from soy branches, the largest by-product by mass. The optimum condition of each solvent was applied to extract all other parts of soy collected post-mechanical harvesting. The highest value of apigenin, 591.49 ± 26.7 μg/g, was achieved from soy pods with EtOH:H2O (8:2, v/v), while the highest of genistein, 54.04 ± 3.39 μg/g, was achieved from soybeans using the same solvent. Our findings highlight the necessity of exercising caution when interpreting in silico outcomes in the context of metabolite extractions from complex matrices. A trade-off between in silico solvent screening and experimental work should be followed when developing new phytochemical extraction processes. Furthermore, soy by-products emerged as competitive candidates for a long-term source of the bioactive apigenin in a biorefinery context.

A comparative study on the influence of equipment design on the efficiency of dynamic maceration of Azadirachta excelsa leaves

Dynamic maceration facilitates diffusion in solid-liquid extraction through controlling temperature and providing agitation. However, equipment design for dynamic maceration in previous investigations resulted in inadequate homogeneity of temperature and solid dispersion. A laboratory scale extractor was designed to aid the heat and mass transfer process while preventing solvent vaporization when performing dynamic maceration in a controlled environment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of dynamic maceration using the laboratory scale extractor compared to a shaker incubator to extract triterpenoid saponins from Azadirachta excelsa leaves. The dynamic maceration of A. excelsa leaves was optimized using a Face-centered central composite design (FCCCD) with response surface methodology (RSM). Independent variables analyzed include ethanol-to-chloroform ratio, extraction temperature, extraction time, and sample-to-solvent ratio, while responses include yield of extract and triterpenoid saponins content (TSC). Optimum conditions were ethanol-to-chloroform ratio of 90:10, extraction temperature of 45 °C, extraction time of 60 minutes, and sample-to-solvent ratio of 1:50 g/ml. There was a significant percentage of increase in yield of extract and TSC by 41.1% and 13.3%, respectively, for the laboratory scale extractor compared to the shaker incubator. This study showed the importance of equipment design in enhancing triterpenoid saponins extraction through elevating the efficiency of the dynamic maceration process.

Oil Extraction from Hemp Plant as a Potential Source of Cannabidiol for Healthy Protein Foods.

In recent years, the increasing demand for alternative foods has shifted research toward new sources enriched with nutraceutical molecules. It is well known that many diseases are caused by oxidative stress; thus, the supplementation of antioxidants has been proposed to reduce it. Cannabis sativa L. is an interesting species that could provide an alternative source of antioxidants. This work aimed to investigate the possibility of optimizing the yield of cannabidiol (CBD) and recovering it from residual biomass (stalks), valorizing the residual biomass, and using this for protein bar preparation. Different extraction methods were used, and High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis was used to analyze the extracts. Antioxidant power was investigated using the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays. The best results in terms of CBD yield were obtained via dynamic maceration after decarboxylation with a quantity of 26.7 ± 2 mgCBD/graw material from inflorescences. The extract also shows good antioxidant power with an IC50 value of 38.1 ± 1.1 µg/mL measured using the DPPH assay. The CBD extract was added to the hemp oil to obtain dough for protein bars. The doughs were studied by taking rheological and technological measurements, and it was found that the protein bars could provide an excellent means for the consumption of products enriched with antioxidants because their CBD anti-inflammatory activity is preserved after cooking.

An updated procedure for zeaxanthin and lutein quantification in corn grains based only in water and ethanol.

Corn grains are a major source of both the bioactive carotenoids zeaxanthin and lutein. Current methods to quantify these substances have some disadvantages related to sustainability and sample throughput. This work aimed to develop a green, efficient, rapid, and reproducible analytical method to quantify these xanthophylls in corn grains. Solvents recommended by the CHEM21 solvent selection guide were screened. The extraction by dynamic maceration and separation by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography were optimized by design of experiments. Then, the entire analytical procedure was validated and compared with procedures used for the same purpose, including an official one, and applied to different corn samples. The proposed method was demonstrated to be greener, equal to or more efficient, faster, and more reproducible than the comparative methods. The extraction step could be scaled up for industrial production of zeaxanthin- and lutein-enriched extracts, as it uses only compatible food grade ethanol and water.

Polyphenol Composition by HPLC-DAD-(ESI-)MS/MS and Bioactivities of Extracts from Grape Agri-Food Wastes.

Grape agri-food wastes, such as skin, seeds, and other discarded by-products, contain phytochemical compounds that offer potential health benefits. This study aimed to investigate the polyphenol composition and bioactivities of different extracts obtained from grape marc and seeds, with the goal of exploring their potential for application as natural food additives. Regardless of the extraction method used (dynamic maceration, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE)), all extracts exhibited relatively high concentrations of phenolic compounds. The chemical characterization of the extracts revealed the presence of specific compounds and chemical groups associated with each extraction methodology. Moreover, the extracts displayed satisfactory antioxidant activities, especially in inhibiting lipoperoxidation as assessed by the TBARS assay. Additionally, the extracts demonstrated effective inhibition against different strains of bacteria and fungi known as food contaminants. Taken together, these findings indicate that those extracts have the potential to be tested as natural antioxidants and preservatives with sustainable origins in food and beverage systems. Among the extraction methods evaluated, traditional maceration and UAE provided extracts with the highest antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Our results suggest the opportunity to explore grape marc and seeds discarded by the winery industry in Portugal as natural sources of bioactive compounds, which could be employed as functional food ingredients or technological additives. The valorization of grape biowastes offers a promising strategy to reduce waste and harness their potential health benefits.

Dynamic Maceration of Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) Fruit Waste: An Optimization Study to Recover Anthocyanins

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) is a tropical fruit with a vibrant red color attributed to anthocyanins, natural pigments, with several applications in the food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries. Therefore, the suitability of acerola fruit waste for producing anthocyanin colorants by dynamic maceration was investigated. The extraction process was optimized by combining the factors time (2–90 min), temperature (20–90 °C), and ethanol percentage (0–100%) in a central composite rotatable design (CCRD) coupled with response surface methodology (RSM). The extraction yield determined by a gravimetric method and the levels of cyanidin-O-deoxyhexoside and pelargonidin-O-deoxyhexoside anthocyanins quantified in the 20 run extracts by HPLC-DAD were used as dependent variables. After fitting the experimental data to a quadratic equation, the obtained statistically valid predictive models were used to determine optimal macerating conditions. Under global settings (25 min processing at 41 °C with 12% ethanol), the extraction yielded 57.1% (w/w) and each gram of extract contained 2.54 mg of anthocyanins. Overall, this study highlights the renewable potential of acerola fruit waste for obtaining natural anthocyanin extracts that could represent a sustainable alternative to artificial colorants used in food and other products.

Ultrasonication/dynamic maceration-assisted extraction method as a novel combined approach for recovery of phenolic compounds from pomegranate peel.

According to recent studies, pomegranate peel (PP) has the potential to be inverted from environmental pollutant waste to wealth due to possessing valuable phenolic compounds at a higher amount compared to edible parts. So far, different types of biological activities such as antimutagenic, antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory, and chemo-preventive properties were stated for pomegranate peel extract (PPE) according to chemical composition. In the present research, the probable intensifying effects of two extraction methods and optimum conditions for novel combined method of ultrasonication and dynamic maceration-assisted extraction of PPE using response surface methodology (RSM) were determined. A Box-Behnken Design (BBD) was employed to optimize three extraction variables, including sonication time (X1), sonication temperature (X2), and stirring speed (X3) for the achievement of high extraction yield of the phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. The optimized conditions to obtain maximum extraction efficiency were determined as X1 = 70 min, X2 = 61.8°C, and X3 = 1000 rpm. The experimental values were in line with the values anticipated by RSM models, which indicates the appropriateness of the applied quadratic model and the accomplishment of RSM in optimizing the extraction conditions. The results suggest that the extraction of PPE by mix of ultrasonication as a modern method and dynamic maceration as a conventional method could improve its bioactive extractability and the obtained values were higher than any of the methods used. In other words, these two methods together have intensifying effects in increasing extraction efficiency which could further be utilized in food and agricultural industry.

Conventional and innovative extraction technologies to produce food-grade hop extracts: Influence on bitter acids content and volatile organic compounds profile.

Hop extracts represent a natural alternative to synthetic food additives because of their high content of bitter acids and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with bittering, flavoring, and antimicrobial properties. However, broader uses of hop extracts as natural techno-functional ingredients rely on the identification of sustainable and affordable extraction technologies allowing to diversify the processes and produce extracts characterized by different compositions and, consequently, qualitative properties. Thus, this study is aimed to evaluate and compare the effect of innovative and conventional extraction methods on the bitter acids content and VOCs pattern of food-grade ethanolic hop extracts for food applications. Innovative extractions were carried out by using two ultrasound systems (a laboratory bath [US] and a high-power ultrasound bath [HPUS]), and a high-pressure industrial process (high hydrostatic pressure [HHP]). Conventional extractions (CONV) were performed under dynamic maceration at 25 and 60°C; for ultrasound and conventional methods, the effect of the extraction time was also investigated. Among the extracts, the highest and lowest content of bitter acids was found in CONV 60°C extracts, and HHP and CONV 25°C extracts, respectively. Of the 34 VOCs identified in dry hops, ∼24 compounds were found in US, HPUS and CONV extracts, while only 18 were found in HHP. CONV extractions showed higher selectivity for sesquiterpenes, while US and HPUS showed higher selectivity for esters and monoterpenes. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) allowed classifying hop extracts based on the extraction methods and also allowed highlighting the technological conditions to produce hop extracts with specific techno-functional and flavoring properties. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The study showed that different extraction methods can lead to hop products with varying sensory and functional properties. By selecting the right extraction method, companies can produce hop extracts with specific compositions that meet their needs for clean label and sustainable food products, as well as new edible packaging or coatings.

Valorization of quince peel into functional food ingredients: A path towards “zero waste” and sustainable food systems

Quince (Cydonia oblonga Mill.) is an astringent fruit widely processed into marmalade and other sweets through processes that discard the peel as a by-product. Therefore, this study was performed to characterize the quince peel composition in nutrients and phytochemicals and evaluate its in vitro biological activity, following a “zero waste” approach. The quince peel dry powder was particularly rich in fiber (20.2 g/100 g), fructose (34 g/100 g), malic acid (7.2 g/100 g), and potassium (692 mg/100 g). Extracts prepared by dynamic hydroethanolic maceration and hot water extraction yielded 4.70 and 4.27 mg/g of phenolic compounds, respectively, with a prevalence of flavan-3-ols. The hydroethanolic extract was the most effective in inhibiting lipid peroxidation and oxidative hemolysis, and also presented better antimicrobial effects against foodborne pathogens, which agreed with the highest flavan-3-ol contents. The extracts were better than control synthetic food additives against some tested fungal and bacterial strains. On the other hand, no ability to inhibit nitric oxide production or toxicity to the tumor and non-tumor cell lines was observed. Furthermore, the solid residues remaining after extraction contained 35–37 g/100 g of fiber. Overall, quince peel can be upcycled into fiber-rich and bioactive ingredients to endow the value chain with natural food fortifiers, preservatives, and health promoters.

Comparison of betulinic acid extraction techniques from Eugenia florida DC (Myrtaeae) leaves

Eugenia florida DC belongs to the Myrtaceae family. Previous phytochemical studies with leaves extracts of E. florida revealed the occurrence of triterpenes, such as betulinic acid (BA) which presents a vast literature with different biological activities: anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antimicrobial, antiviral and anticancer. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficiency of different extraction methods (static maceration, dynamic maceration, percolation, soxhlet and ultrasonic waves) to extract BA from the leaves of Eugenia florida. The solvents and particle sizes were also evaluated. The results showed that the better solvents to extract BA were ethyl acetate and chloroform. The highest percentages of BA were obtained by percolation and maceration, probably due to the swelling of the plant material and the renewal of the solvent process. In the assays using different particle sizes of leaves of E. florida, relating to BA recovery and extraction yield, different extraction profiles were observed among the various solvents used. Ethyl acetate and chloroform showed no significant differences in both yields, however 50% of decreasing on extraction efficiency was observed when plant smaller particles were used with methanol and ethanol.

Chemical analysis, antifungal and antimycotoxigenic activity of tetradenia riparia essential oil and crude extract

Tetradenia riparia is known for its richness in essential oil which has been widely investigated due to its biological activities such as antimicrobial, insecticidal, trypanocidal, antimalarial and antioxidant. The objective of this work was to chemically analyze and evaluate the antifungal and antimycotoxigenic activity of the essential oil and the crude extract of leaves, flower buds and stems of T. riparia from the northwest region of the state of Paraná. The essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus. To obtain the crude extract, the leaves, flower buds and stems were pulverized and subjected to a dynamic maceration process using 70% v v−1 ethyl alcohol. Chemical analysis of the essential oil was performed by GC/MS, and chemical identification of the crude extract by UHPLC-ESI/qTOF. Antifungal activity (Rhizopus oryzae, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus ochraceus, Penicillium verrucosum and Fusarium graminearum) was performed by broth microdilution and the antimycotoxigenic assay was performed with A. ochraceus and P. verrucosum. Ochratoxin A was extracted by partition with chloroform and quantified by HPLC-FL. The oil yield was 0.29% for leaves, 0.34% for stems and 0.38% for flower buds, and the major compounds were fenchone, β-caryophyllene, α-cadinol, 14-hydroxy-9- epi-caryophyllene, 9β,13β-epoxy-7-abietene, α-cadinol and 6–7-dehydroroyleanone. The main chemical compounds identified in the crude extract were terpenes, anthocyanins, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic acids. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of oils from leaves, flower buds and stems for the strains tested ranged from 0.87 mg mL−1 to 33.3 mg mL−1, while the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) ranged from 6.94 mg mL−1 and 33.3 mg mL−1. The MIC and MFC for ketoconazole, tebuconazole, sorbate and nitrite ranged from 0.05 to 33.3 mg mL−1. The oil and crude extract of leaves, stems and flower buds showed an inhibition of ochratoxin A production for P. verrucosum of approximately 100%.

Analysis of the cytotoxic effects of the fruit extract of Crescentia cujete L.

Introduction: Over time, treatments with plant species have become more effective for the vast majority of the population, even with a vague collection of scientific research that proves their safety and effectiveness. Among these different species is the arboreal Crescentia cujete L., which is widely distributed in Northeastern Brazil. It is applied with various therapeutic purposes, from antihypertensive, analgesic, antispasmodic and some gynecological disorders. Objective: To analyze the possible cytotoxicity of the hydroalcoholic extract of the fruit. Methodology: The extract was obtained through dynamic maceration in a hydroalcoholic solution. A cytotoxicity analysis was carried out based on the methodologies of osmotic fragility and lethality against Artemia salina L. 45.32%. Conclusion: Therefore, further research aimed at safety and possible applicability of the extract in question is encouraged.

Use of Conventional and Innovative Technologies for the Production of Food Grade Hop Extracts: Focus on Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity.

This study investigated the use of conventional and innovative extraction methods to produce food-grade hop extracts with high antioxidant capacity and content in bioactive compounds. Conventional extractions (CONV) were performed under dynamic maceration at 25 and 60 °C; innovative extractions were performed using two ultrasound systems, a laboratory bath (US) and a high-power ultrasound bath (HPUS), and a high-pressure industrial process. For CONV, US, and HPUS extractions the effect of the extraction time was also tested. Experimental results showed that extraction method, temperature, and time affect to a different extent the phenolic profile and have a significant effect (p < 0.05) on the total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, antiradical capacity (ABTS), chlorophyll α, and total carotenoids content. Overall, US and CONV 60 °C extractions showed the highest extraction efficiency for almost all the investigated compounds, however, the extraction method and time to be used strongly depends on the target compounds to extract.

Anticoagulant Activity of Crude and Phenolic Extracts of Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L.) Taub. Dried Leaves

Pharmacognosy Research,2021,13,3,121-128.DOI:10.5530/pres.13.3.3Published:June 2021Type:Original ArticleAuthors:Enrico Rogatto Rovetta, Mara Angelina Galvão Magenta, Thaís Moura Gascon, Fernando Luiz Affonso Fonseca, Robson Miranda da Gama, José Armando Jr, and Horácio Dorigan Moya Author(s) affiliations:Enrico Rogatto Rovetta1, Mara Angelina Galvão Magenta2, Thaís Moura Gascon3, Fernando Luiz Affonso Fonseca3, Robson Miranda da Gama1, José Armando Jr1, Horácio Dorigan Moya1,* 1Centro Universitário FMABC, Pharmacy Laboratory, Santo André, São Paulo, BRAZIL. 2Universidade Santa Cecília, Santos, São Paulo, BRAZIL. 3Centro Universitário FMABC, Clinical Analysis Laboratory, Santo André, São Paulo, BRAZIL. 4Centro Universitário FMABC, Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Santo André, São Paulo, BRAZIL. Abstract:Background: Ischemic diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide; therefore, the search for new compounds with safer and more effective anticoagulant and antiplatelet action becomes relevant. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L.) Taub. dry leaf extract, a species of the Fabaceae family that is commonly found in Brazil, on blood coagulation. Materials and Methods: A statistical design of experiments was carried out with selection of five factors and two levels, resulting in 32 different ethanolic raw extracts. The extracts were resuspended in saline and tested in a pool of human blood. The activated partially thromboplastin time (APTT) and the prothrombin time (PT) were analysed in a Thrombolyzer®. Results: Treatment using ethanol 70%, a drug/solvent ratio of 5%, pH 9 and dynamic maceration for 6 hrs resulted in the best combination for the extraction of total phenols, while ethanol 70%, a drug/solvent ratio of 5% and dynamic maceration for 24 hrs showed the best flavonoid extraction, with the pH being inconclusive. On average, all extracts were capable of increasing both APTT and PT, especially those in lower dilutions (1:5); however, the overall efficacy of the extracts is inconclusive. Conclusion: The species under study showed important results in the blood clotting process in vitro, increasing the mean time of APTT and PT, which suggests that Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L.) Taub. has some potential as a possible drug in the anticoagulant class. Keywords:Anticoagulant activity, Dalbergia ecastaphyllum (L.) Taub., Flavonoids, Phenolic compounds, Plant extractsView:PDF (903.36 KB)

Modelling of bioactive components extraction from corn seeds

Corn is the most widely cultivated grain worldwide, due to its employability in human and animal nutrition. This grain has bioactive compounds with high pharmacological benefits. Several traditional techniques for extracting bioactive compounds from plant matrices involve solid-liquid extraction, commonly dynamic maceration. The main factors that can influence the yield and selectivity of this extraction are: solvent, time, temperature, solid-liquid ratio and particle size of material. In this context, extraction kinetic models have been applied to simulation and design studies. The objective of this work was to adjust extraction kinetic models based on experimental data of bioactive compounds extracted from corn seeds. In this way, solvents used were methanol/water 70/30 (v/v), methanol/water 95/5 (v/v), ethanol/water 70/30 (v/v) and ethanol/water 95/5 (v/v) and the extraction times were 1, 4 and 24 h. Extraction efficiency was monitored by the DPPH free radical scavenging test, using gallic acid as a standard. Best results were obtained with the solvent methanol/water 70/30 (v/v) during 1 and 4 h of extraction. Kinetic models that best fitted experimental data were First Order and So and MacDonald’s, while those that could not present good statistical analyzes were Parabolic Diffusion and Power Law.

Optimization of the extraction process of bioactive compounds from Rhamnus alaternus leaves using Box-Behnken experimental design

The Rhamnus alaternus plant is a rich source of excellent bioactive compounds including polyphenols and flavonoids. Yet, the improvement of the extraction yield of total polyphenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) from this plant has never been inspected in depth. Hence, using a 15-run Box-Behnken design, a dynamic maceration process was optimized for the extraction of TPC and TFC in order to investigate the antioxidant capacity of the various fractions by DPPH assay. Three factors (i.e., ratio of solvent-to-solid material plant, stirring speed and extraction time), were investigated and optimized for establishing a cost-effective process in order to produce extracts rich in phenolic components. With a desirability value of 0.970, the optimal extraction parameters of polyphenols and flavonoids were as follows: a ratio of solvent-to-solid of 10:1 mL/g, a stirring speed of 518 rpm, and 24 h of extraction. For such optimized conditions of dynamic maceration, the highest total polyphenols and total flavonoids contents were experimentally determined at 230.9 mg GAE/g and 121.1 mg QE/g of extract, respectively with an IC50 value of 22.5 μg/mL, and were in agreement with the obtained model values.