Antioxidant Effects Research Articles

The effect of the natural antioxidants extracted from Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) on the cryopreservation of chicken breast meat

Background: Chicken meat is highly nutritious, valued for its unique properties and versatility in culinary applications. Also, preparation methods and natural additives to its diet play an important role in estimating the nutritional value of its meat by increasing consumer acceptance of it from health, nutritional, and material aspects. Objective: This study was conducted to determine the effect of licorice as a natural antioxidant on cold-preserved chicken meat. Methods: Phenolic compounds were quantified using the colorimetric method with Folin's reagent, measuring absorbance at 765 nm, and results were expressed in terms of gallic acid equivalents per gram of dry weight. Gallic acid was used as a reference solution to prepare the standard curve with concentrations ranging between 20-120 μg/mL to determine the quantity of phenolic compounds. Determination of antioxidant activity was done using the DPPH method by taking 0.5 mL of the extract solution at concentrations ranging from 50-300 μg/mL and mixing with 3 mL of methanolic DPPH solution. The mixture was mixed for 1 min with a vortex mixer, and samples were measured by spectrophotometer at 517 nm. Moisture, ash, fat, protein, and pH were determined according to the methods mentioned by AOAC. Thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) were estimated by mixing 0.5 g of the sample with 2.5 mL of TBA solution. The mixture was heated in a boiling water bath for 10 min to orange color, chilled by adding 1 mL of chloroform and centrifuged at 5000 rpm for 25 min, and the absorbance was read at 532 nm wavelength. Total microorganisms, molds, and yeast were counted. Results: Protein content increased proportionally with higher concentrations of ethanolic licorice root extract. The gradual increase in protein content in samples is attributed to their antimicrobial effect, which leads to the preservation of meat from microbial growth and the action of proteolytic enzymes. The increase in protein during refrigerated storage is due to the decrease in moisture and increase in dry matter reflected in the increase in protein. The reduced acidity in chicken meat treated with licorice root ethanolic extract is attributed to its antimicrobial effects, which limit the growth of microorganisms responsible for metabolizing nitrogenous compounds. Licorice extracts, rich in phenolic compounds, reduce lipid oxidation. The observed decrease in thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances with increasing extract concentration is due to the antioxidant properties of these phenolics with the hydroxyl group attached to the aromatic ring capable of giving hydrogen atoms and inhibiting free radicals. This study found that the growth of microorganisms could be lowered by licorice extract containing phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids, which showed a significant antimicrobial effect. Conclusion: This study examined how natural antioxidants, like licorice Glycyrrhiza glabra, affected the cryopreservation of chicken breast. Keywords: Licorice root extract, chicken breast, antioxidants, total phenol, Meat science

Prebiotic Properties of Dates and Their Impact on Health

The date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.), primarily cultivated in desert regions like the Middle East, is a significant source of nutrition, rich in sugars, polysaccharides, and bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, phenolics, anthocyanins, and sterols. Notably, the polysaccharides in dates exhibit prebiotic properties, supporting beneficial gut microbiota. Research highlights that dates promote the growth of helpful bacteria, including Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, which enhance intestinal health, improve barrier function, and increase the production of short-chain fatty acids. Beyond gut health, dates offer additional benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardiovascular, neuroprotective, and blood sugar-regulating effects. This review synthesizes recent findings on the prebiotic effects and broader health impacts of dates, suggesting their potential in dietary strategies for promoting health and preventing gastrointestinal disorders.

Preparation of Ethosome Gel with Total Flavonoids from Vernonia anthelmintica (L.) Willd. for the Treatment of Vitiligo

Vernonia anthelmintica (L.) Willd. is a traditional medicinal herb in Chinese medicine, extensively used by various ethnic groups due to the numerous advantages derived from its total flavonoids. These benefits encompass anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and the promotion of melanin production, showcasing its significant efficacy in addressing vitiligo. To improve transdermal absorption and enhance the antioxidant effectiveness of the treatment, ethosome containing total flavonoids were prepared utilizing the ultrasound injection technique. The resulting ethosome was then carefully mixed with 0.7% Carbomer 934 gel in equal parts, yielding a gel concentration of 0.302 mg/g. This formulation produced small, consistent ethosome that exhibited high encapsulation efficiency and notable stability. In vitro analyses demonstrated sustained release characteristics of the gel and considerable therapeutic effectiveness against vitiligo resulting from hydroquinone exposure. Histological examinations performed through hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining of mouse skin revealed increased melanin production and increased activities of tyrosinase (TYR), cholinesterase (CHE), and mouse monoamine oxidase (MAO), while levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were reduced. These findings underscore the promising effectiveness of this treatment strategy and validate the efficacy of the dosage form.

Comparing the Effect of Heat Therapy and Mitochondrial-Targeted Antioxidants in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Phenotype Induced by Junk Food Consumption.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine-metabolic disorder, and multiple factors contribute to its pathophysiology. The current study assessed a PCOS-like animal model induced by consuming a high-fat sugar (HFHS) diet and compared the treatment outcome of mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants versus heat therapy. Sixty rats were divided into the following study groups: three control groups (negative and positive for the treatments used), HFHS, hot tub therapy (HTT) treatment, and MitoQ10 treatment (500 µmol/L MitoQ10 in clean drinking water daily, from week fourteen till week twenty-two of the study). At week fourteen, PCOS was confirmed by vaginal smear examination; measurements of blood testosterone (T), anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), glucose, and insulin; and determination of the homeostatic model assessment of IR (HOMA-IR). At week 22, blood samples were collected for measurement of the serum LH, FSH, AMH, T, insulin, glucose, lipid profile, kisspeptin, ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 19 (ADAMTS19), S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B), fibulin 1 (FBLN1), immunoglobulin free light chains (FLCs), kappa and lambda. Ovaries were examined for morphological changes; for the levels of glutathione (GSH), catalase, SOD, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO); and the expression of FK506 binding protein 52 (FKBP52) and the androgen receptor (AR). The consumption of HFHS diet-induced PCOS-like features, which have been ameliorated by both HTT and mitoQ10 as potential therapies, with MitoQ10 showing a superior effect over HTT.

Intra-articular injection of MOF-based nanomaterials for the treatment of osteoarthritis by modulating the bone microenvironment

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage degradation, subchondral bone remodeling, and chronic inflammation. Current therapeutic strategies often fail to address the underlying mechanisms of OA. This study investigates the efficacy of ZIF-8 composite molybdenum (Mo) nanozymes coated by CaCO3 layer (CaCO3@ZIF@Mo-TA) as a novel therapeutic approach for OA. The nanozymes were characterized using various techniques, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). In vivo studies demonstrated that administration of CaCO3@ZIF-8@Mo-TA at a dose of 100 mg/kg significantly improved joint health, reduced inflammation, and enhanced cartilage preservation in an OA rat model. Mechanistic studies revealed that the nanozymes exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by modulating key signaling pathways, including the NLRP3 inflammasome. These findings suggest that ZIF-8@Mo-TA nanozymes represent a promising therapeutic strategy for OA management.

Cell-free fat extract improves embryo development and clinical outcomes in older women with previous in-vitro fertilization failure

BackgroundPreimplantation embryos in vivo are exposed to various growth factors in the female reproductive tract that are absent in in vitro embryo culture media. Cell-free fat extract exerts antioxidant, anti-ageing, and ovarian function-promoting effects. However, its effects on embryo quality are yet to be investigated.MethodsWe assessed the effect of cell-free fat extract supplementation on embryo culture using a naturally ageing mouse model. We assessed the model’s efficacy in influencing embryo development and pregnancy rates in older women with in vitro fertilization failure. In addition, we performed immunofluorescence staining, multiplex immunoassay, whole-genome amplification and DNA sequencing, time-lapse embryo monitoring, and in vitro experiments.ResultsCell-free fat extract-supplemented media has a suitable osmolarity and pH and contains high levels of bioactive growth factors. Cell-free fat extract promoted embryo development and implantation in aged mice, probably by increasing embryo growth rate, inhibiting cell apoptosis, and promoting blastocyst adhesion. Clinical results showed that the cell-free fat extract group had significantly higher rates of the day 3 available and high-quality embryos than the control group, and the rate of usable embryos tended to be higher in the cell-free fat extract group. Furthermore, implantation and clinical pregnancy rates improved in the cell-free fat extract group than in the control group.ConclusionsOur study implies that cell-free fat extract supplementation can promote embryo development and clinical outcomes and may serve as a rescue strategy for older women with in vitro fertilization failure.

Therapeutic Scrutiny of Lentinus polychrous with Attention to Its Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anticancer Attributes.

Mushrooms, being a source of therapeutically active compounds, are of great interest to researchers due to their historical usage in traditional therapies and the significant role that natural products have played in the development of contemporary medications. Lentinus polychrous is one underutilized mushroom species collected from the laterites of West Bengal, India. Our study aims toward its taxonomic validation, deciphering the secondary metabolic fingerprint, and testing its efficiency in countering many clinical issues, including oxidative stress, growing microbial drug resistance, and cancer. In vitro investigations have shown that the methanolic extract of the mushroom has a broad spectrum of antioxidant activitieswith effective concentration (EC50) ranging from 403.6 ± 3.8 to 841.2 ± 10.7µg/mL depending on the type of free radicals and is effective in combating human pathogenic bacterial strains where MIC50 varies from as low as 302.2 ± 3.8 to 570.6 ± 1.8µg/mL, mediated likely through inducing the breakdown of the outer coat and inducing increased porosity. The fraction was also shown to possess anticancer properties against A549 cells (LD50 120.9 ± 1.83µg/mL) by triggering apoptosis. The modulation of Bcl-2 family gene expression was found to be the primary factor responsible for the induction of apoptosis in A549 cells during the experimental approaches. The findings revealed that the mushroom exhibits significant antioxidant, antibacterial, and particular cytotoxic effects on lung cancer cells, indicating its potential medical importance. These results provide essential insights into possibilities for the development of new therapeutic medicines derived from this mushroom.

Anti-ferroptotic effects of natural polyphenols in nervous system injury: a narrative literature review.

Recent studies have shown that ferroptosis, a newly identified regulated cell death characterized by increased lipid peroxidation and accumulation of toxic lipid peroxides, is closely related to the pathophysiological processes of nervous system diseases which can be inhibited with iron chelators, lipophilic antioxidants, and lipid peroxidation inhibitors. To review the current evidence on the efficacy of various natural polyphenols in nervous system injury. The data selected for this review were collected by searching the MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar database for articles published in English between 2000 and 2024 using the following terms: cell death, regulated cell death, ferroptosis, lipid peroxides, iron, and glutathione peroxidase. Natural polyphenols have been found to have some protective effects against nervous system disorders, which are attributed to a variety of biological properties, particularly antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects. The preclinical studies conducted on the use of the most common dietary polyphenols, including resveratrol, EGCG, curcumin, quercetin, gastrodin, baicalein & baicalin, carthamin, galangin, puerarin, morachalcone, and carnosic acid with the molecular mechanisms have been discussed. On the other hand, the results of a few clinical studies emphasize the primary role of iron in neuronal degeneration following some of nervous system injury. Some of the findings indicated that natural polyphenols as antioxidant supplements have anti-ferroptotic effects in nervous system disorders.

Effect of Drying Temperature on Sensory Quality, Flavor Components, and Bioactivity of Lichuan Black Tea Processed by Echa No. 10

Lichuan black tea (LBT) is a well-known congou black tea in China, but there is relatively little research on its processing technology. Echa No. 10 is the main tea tree variety for producing LBT. This study investigated the sensory quality, flavor components, and bioactivity of Echa No. 10 Lichuan black tea (LBT) at different drying temperatures (70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, and 130 °C). During 80–120 °C, increasing the drying temperature enabled a higher sweet aroma concentration and enhanced the sweetness in the taste, in contrast to reducing the floral, fruity, and sweet aromas, and increasing the bitterness and astringency, at >120 °C. Additionally, with an increasing drying temperature, the contents of tea polyphenols and total catechins significantly decreased, with the theaflavins decreasing first and then increasing, and the alcohols, aldehydes, esters, and hydrocarbons increasing first and then decreasing. Meanwhile, compounds (including linalool, (Z)-linalool oxide (furanoid), (E)-linalool oxide (furanoid), cis-β-Ocimene, and methyl salicylate) contribute more to the floral and fruity aromas at <110 °C. Furthermore, low-temperature drying favors the antioxidant and inhibitory effects of the α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and glucose absorption activity. Both the tea quality and bioactivity results revealed 80–110 °C as the optimal drying temperature range for LBT.

Irisin-mediated KEAP1 degradation alleviates oxidative stress and ameliorates pancreatitis.

Oxidative stress (OS) injury is pivotal in acute pancreatitis (AP) pathogenesis, contributing to inflammatory cascades. Irisin, a ubiquitous cytokine, exhibits antioxidant properties. However, the role of irisin in AP remains inconclusive. Our study aims to elucidate irisin expression in AP patients and investigate its mechanism of action to propose a novel treatment strategy for AP. Serum irisin levels in 65 AP patients were quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and correlated with disease severity scores. Core genes implicated in AP-related oxidative stress were identified and screened via bioinformatics analysis. The therapeutic efficacy of irisin in AP was confirmed using a murine cerulein-induced AP model. The intrinsic mechanism of irisin's antioxidative stress action was investigated and verified in pancreatic AR42J cells (Supplementary Fig.1). Common targets shared by irisin and AP were further validated using a molecular docking model which was constructed for virtual docking analysis. This study investigated alterations in redox status in AP and found a significant reduction in serum irisin levels, correlating inversely with AP severity. In a murine AP model, we showed that irisin triggers an antioxidative stress program via the KEAP1 gene; this process helps reestablish redox balance by decreasing the buildup of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and suppressing the secretion of inflammatory mediators within pancreatic tissues Notably, increased KEAP1 expression counteracted the antioxidative effects of irisin. Our findings unveil a novel therapeutic mechanism for AP, wherein irisin inhibits KEAP1 to alleviate OS. Increasing irisin levels in vivo presents a promising strategy for AP treatment.

Dietary flaxseed: Cardiometabolic benefits and its role in promoting healthy aging.

Flaxseed, a rich source of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), lignans, and soluble fiber, has attracted attention for its potential to improve multiple cardiometabolic risk factors. While its benefits are well-recognized, comprehensive evaluations of its direct impact on clinical outcomes, such as the prevention or progression of cardiometabolic diseases, remain limited. Additionally, its potential to support healthy aging and longevity through fundamental biological mechanisms has not been fully elucidated. This review synthesizes existing research on flaxseed supplementation, highlighting its effects on cardiometabolic risk factors and outcomes, the underlying biological mechanisms, and its broader implications for health promotion and aging. Findings demonstrate that flaxseed supplementation significantly improves several cardiometabolic risk factors, including body weight, body mass index, lipid levels, blood pressure, glycemic measures, markers of inflammation (e.g., C-reactive protein and interleukin-6), oxidative stress, and liver enzymes. Blood pressure reductions range from approximately 2 to 15mmHg for systolic blood pressure and 1 to 7mmHg for diastolic blood pressure, with the magnitude influenced by dose, duration, and baseline risk profiles. While direct evidence linking flaxseed to the prevention of hypertension, metabolic syndrome, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease is limited, its bioactive components-ALA, lignans, and fiber-are strongly associated with reduced risks of these conditions. The benefits of flaxseed are mediated through multiple pathways, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, improved lipidlevels, improved glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, modulation of gut microbiota, and enhanced vascular health. Beyond cardiometabolic outcomes, flaxseed may influence key biological processes relevant to aging, underscoring its potential to promote healthy aging and longevity. Optimal cardiometabolic benefits appear to be achieved with ground whole flaxseed at doses of ≥ 30g/day for at least 12weeks, particularly among individuals at high cardiometabolic risk. Future research should focus on elucidating flaxseed's mechanisms of action, clarifying its role in disease prevention, and refining dietary recommendations to harness its potential for cardiometabolic health and aging interventions.

Uses of Cyclohexan-1,3-diones to Synthesis Xanthenes Derivatives with Anti-proliferative Activity Against Cancer Cell Lines and their Inhibitions Toward Tyrosine Kinases.

Xanthene derivatives are a notable class of heterocyclic compounds widely studied for their significant biological impact. These molecules, found in both natural and synthetic forms, have attracted substantial scientific interest due to their broad spectrum of biological activities. The xanthene nucleus, in particular, is associated with a range of potential pharmaceutical properties, including antibacterial, antiviral, antiinflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant effects. Their structural flexibility allows for modifications that can enhance specific biological functions, making them valuable candidates in medicinal chemistry and drug development. Multi-component reactions involving two equivalents of 5,5-dimethylcyclohexane-1,3-dione with aromatic aldehydes yield xanthene derivatives that are known for their biological activity. Additionally, fused xanthene derivatives are formed through subsequent heterocyclization reactions, resulting in compounds with a broad range of biological properties. Various xanthene derivatives incorporating thiophene and thiazole moieties were synthesized. Compounds 3a-c were further subjected to heterocyclization reactions to produce fused xanthene derivatives with additional heterocyclic components, enhancing their biological activity. The cytotoxic effects of the synthesized compounds were assessed across six cancer cell lines. Inhibition studies on c-Met kinase and the PC-3 cell line were conducted. Additionally, the compounds' inhibitory activity against tyrosine kinases was evaluated, and morphological changes in the A549 cell line were observed with the two most potent compounds. The synthesized heterocyclic compounds, derived from 5,5-dimethylcyclohexane-1,3-dione and related cyclohexanone derivatives, exhibited significant inhibitory effects across various cancer cell lines. Specifically, compounds 3b, 5c, 5d, 7b, 7c, 7d, 9a, 9b, 10b, 10c, 12c, 15b, 15c, 16b, 16c, 17c, 17d, 17e, and 17f demonstrated high levels of inhibition, indicating potential for further exploration of xanthene-based heterocyclic compounds to enhance anticancer properties.

Research progress on quercetin in improving the survival rate of random skin flap.

Random skin flap transplantation is critical in wound repair, organ reconstruction and cosmetic surgery, yet skin flap necrosis remains a common and challenging issue. Quercetin, a flavonoid abundant in various plants, exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other beneficial pharmacological effects. Recent studies suggest quercetin can improve random skin flap survival by modulating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting angiogenesis. This review evaluates quercetin's potential mechanisms and efficacy, proposing a foundation for its clinical use in preventing ischemic necrosis and enhancing flap viability.

Size effect-based improved antioxidant activity of selenium nanoparticles regulating Anti-PI3K-mTOR and Ras-MEK pathways for treating spinal cord injury to avoid hormone shock-induced immunosuppression

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a critical condition affecting the central nervous system that often has permanent and debilitating consequences, including secondary injuries. Oxidative damage and inflammation are critical factors in secondary pathological processes. Selenium nanoparticles have demonstrated significant antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties via a non-immunosuppressive pathway; however, their clinical application has been limited by their inadequate stability and functionality to cross the blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB). This study proposed a synthesis method for ultra-small-diameter lentinan Se nanoparticles (LNT-UsSeNPs) with significantly superior reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging capabilities compared to conventional lentinan Se nanoparticles (LNT-SeNPs). These compounds effectively protected PC-12 cells from oxidative stress-induced cytotoxicity, alleviated mitochondrial dysfunction, reduced apoptosis. In vivo studies indicated that LNT-UsSeNPs efficiently penetrated the BSCB and effectively inhibited the apoptosis of spinal neurons. Ultimately, LNT-UsSeNPs directly regulated the PI3K-AKT-mTOR and Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK signaling pathways by regulating selenoproteins to achieve non-immunosuppressive anti-inflammatory therapy. Owing to their ultra-small size, LNT-UsSeNPs exhibited strong spinal barrier penetration and potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects without compromising immune function. These findings suggest that LNT-UsSeNPs are promising candidates for further development in nanomedicine for the effective treatment of SCI.Graphical abstract

A Novel Facile and Efficient Prophylaxis Avenue of Chitosan Oligosaccharide/PLGA Based Polydatin Loaded Nanoparticles Against Bleomycin-Induced Lung Inflammation in Experimental Rat Model

Lung inflammation is a hallmark of several respiratory diseases. Despite the great effectiveness of the synthetic antiinflammatory agents, they cause potential side effects. Polydatin (PD), a natural phytomedicine, has antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects. Its clinical applications are hindered due to poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, and rapid metabolism by first-pass effect. Herein, we report the development of a novel chitosan oligosaccharide-coated PD-loaded Poly dl-lactide-co-glycolide nanoparticles (COS-coated PD/PLGA NPs) against a bleomycin-induced pulmonary inflammation in a rat model. The NPs exhibited a small particle size of 188.57 ± 5.68 nm and a high zeta potential of + 18.13 ± 2.75 mV with spherical architecture and sustained release pattern of PD. In vivo studies in bleomycin-induced lung inflammation in a rat model revealed the superior prophylactic activity of COS-coated PD/PLGA NPs over the free drug (PD) as demonstrated by histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses, alongside biochemical assays evaluating oxidative stress biomarkers and inflammatory cytokine levels. Overall, the optimized COS-coated PD/PLGA NPs formulation offers a promising prophylactic platform against many respiratory diseases.Graphical

Neurotensin receptor agonist PD149163 modulates LPS-induced enterocyte apoptosis by downregulating TNFR pathway and executioner caspase 3 in endotoxemic mice: insights from in vivo and in silico study.

This study was designed to evaluate the dose-dependent efficacy of neurotensin receptor-1 (NTSR1) agonist PD149163 in the amelioration of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced apoptosis in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of mice. PD149163 is an analogue of NTS, a GIT tri-decapeptide with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. Swiss-albino mice (female/8 weeks/25±2.5g) were divided into six groups: control; LPS, LPS+PD149163L, and LPS+PD149163H groups were treated with LPS (0.2μmol/L/kgBW; 5 days), followed by exposure of PD149163 to LPS+PD149163L (10.6μmol/L/kgBW), and LPS+PD149163H (21.2μmol/L/kgBW) for 28 days. OnlyPD149163L (10.6μmol/L/kgBW) and onlyPD149163H (21.2μmol/L/kgBW) groups were maintained for 28 days. Both the LPS and PD149163 were given intraperitoneally. PD149163 treatment for 4 weeks alleviated the LPS-induced enterocyte apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. LPS-induced excessive levels of caspase-3, tumour necrosis factor-α, and leptin (biomarkers of LPS-induced apoptosis) in plasma were decreased by PD149163H treatment. Moreover, LPS-induced gut oxidative stress was ameliorated by PD149163H supplementation, as evidenced by the decreased content of malondialdehyde, lipid-hydroperoxide and increased level of superoxide-dismutase, catalase. Furthermore, PD149163H mediated elevation of the plasma anti-apoptotic protein (B-cell leukaemia/lymphoma-2) along with the NTS level contributed to the modulation of LPS-induced enterocyte apoptosis, reflected in histopathology. In vivo results were substantiated with in silico molecular docking analysis that predicted the binding of PD149163-TLR4 complex, suggesting that PD149163 can act as a TLR4 modulator and inhibit the activation of TLR4. The role of PD149163 in ameliorating GIT apoptosis by its anti-apoptotic and antioxidative effects is suggested. Further research may provide significant insights into the therapeutic intervention of PD149163 in apoptosis-related diseases of GIT.

Propolis from Mount Lawu: Dose-Dependent Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects in a Rat Model of Wound Healing

Background: Chronic wounds present a significant healthcare challenge, necessitating the exploration of effective adjuvant therapies. Propolis, a natural product derived from beehives, has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study investigated the dose-dependent effects of Mount Lawu propolis extract on oxidative stress and inflammation in a rat model of wound healing. Methods: A completely randomized experimental design was employed using male rats (Rattus norvegicus). Granulation tissue wounds were induced, and the rats were treated with varying doses of ethanol extract of Mount Lawu propolis. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to assess the expression of Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the wound tissue. Results: The results demonstrated a significant dose-dependent decrease in MDA and IL-6 expression in the propolis-treated groups compared to the control group. The high-dose propolis group exhibited the most substantial reduction in both MDA and IL-6 levels. Conclusion: Mount Lawu propolis extract exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting its potential as an adjuvant therapy for chronic wound management.

The Health Impact of Cocoa from Cultivation to the Formation of Biogenic Amines: An Updated Review

Cocoa and chocolate are known for their health benefits, which depend on factors like cocoa variety, post-harvest practices, and manufacturing processes, including fermentation, drying, roasting, grinding, and refining. These processing methods can influence the concentration and bioavailability of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols that are linked to cardiovascular health and antioxidant effects. Recent scientific research has led to the development of cocoa-based products marketed as functional foods. However, despite the growing interest in the functional potential of cocoa, the literature lacks crucial information about the properties of different varieties of cocoa and their possible implications for human health. Moreover, climate change is affecting global cocoa production, potentially altering product composition and health-related characteristics. In addition to polyphenols, other compounds of interest are biogenic amines, due to their role and potential toxic effects on human health. Based on toxicological data and recent research on the complex relationship between biogenic amines and cocoa fermentation, setting limits or standards for biogenic amines in cocoa and chocolate could help ensure product safety. Finally, new trends in research on biogenic amines in chocolate suggest that these compounds might also be used as quality markers, and that product formulation and process conditions could change content and diversity of the different amines.

Evaluation of Polyphenolic Content, Antioxidant and Anti-diabetic Activity of Different Solvent Extracts of Sauauria vulcani Korth. Leaves

Sauauria vulcani serves as a rich source of secondary metabolites, including triterpenoids, steroids, tannins, and flavonoids. The present study aimed to assess the biological activities of the S. vulcani leaves, which is an indigenous plant found in West Indonesia. Dried S. vulcani leaves were macerated with hexane to obtain HPE, ethyl acetate to obtain EPE, and methanol to obtain MPE. The TPC was assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteu method, and the TFC was determined utilizing the aluminum chloride assay. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through the DPPH and ABTS assays. The α-amylase inhibition activity of HPE, EPE, and MPE was assessed using the DNS method. The study identified various secondary metabolites in the extracts, including phenolics, flavonoids, triterpenoids, steroids, tannins, and saponins. MPE exhibited the highest TPC and TFC with values of 38.501 ± 0.891 mg GAE/g and 31.436 ± 0.797 mg QAE/g, respectively. In the DPPH and ABTS assays, MPE showed the highest antioxidant capacity, with IC50 values of 54.74 µg/mL and 61.10 µg/mL, respectively. EPE and MPE of S. vulcani displayed increased levels of polyphenolic content, which contributed to their antioxidant effects. The α-amylase inhibitory studies showed that the extracts of S. vulcani (EPE, MPE) had significant inhibitory effects. This study suggests that the EPE and MPE extracts of S. vulcani have the potential as natural sources of bioactives for drug development.

Bio-Recycling Hazelnut Shells to Improve Antioxidant Properties of Lentinus tigrinus Sporophore

Lentinus tigrinus is a wood-decay fungus known for its nutritional, culinary, and medicinal benefits. It contains bioactive compounds like polyphenols, terpenes, and flavonoids that exhibit antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory effects. These natural antioxidants are increasingly recognized for their potential to prevent oxidative damage linked to aging and chronic diseases. This study investigates the antioxidant activity of hydroalcoholic extracts obtained from L. tigrinus sporophores cultivated on hazelnut shells (Lt1_HS), a waste material rich in phenolic compounds, and sporophores cultivated on sawdust (Lt1_S). Bioactivity tests, including DPPH, TBARS, MTT, and DCFH-DA assays, were performed to assess the hydroalcoholic extracts’ efficiency. The results showed that all the extracts contained various bioactive compounds, primarily polyphenols. Notably, the caffeoylquinic acids present in HS and Lt1_HS are linked to anti-peroxidant effects. Biological analyses demonstrated that the Lt1_HS extract has higher anti-peroxidant activity (IC50 0.77 ± 0.01 mg/mL) compared to Lt1_S (IC50 1.36 ± 0.01 mg/mL) and reduces the accumulation of reactive oxygen species in HaCaT cells by 80%. However, the specific bioactive compounds responsible for these antioxidant effects are still unclear, and further analysis will be conducted. Additionally, this study promotes recycling hazelnut shells as a valuable substrate for fungal cultivation, supporting sustainable waste management.