Constituents Of Extract Research Articles

Fracture-healing effects of Rhizoma Musae ethanolic extract: An integrated study using UHPLC-Q-Exactive-MS/MS, network pharmacology, and molecular docking.

Fracture disrupts the integrity and continuity of the bone, leading to symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, and bruising. Rhizoma Musae is a medicinal material frequently utilized in the Miao ethnic region of Guizhou Province, China. However, its specific mechanism of action in treating fractures remains unknown. This study aimed to elucidate the chemical constituents of the ethanol extract of Rhizoma Musae (EERM) and investigate its fracture-healing mechanism using network pharmacology. The chemical profile of EERM was characterized via UHPLC-Q-Exactive-MS/MS. Subsequently, a comprehensive network of compounds, targets, and pathways was constructed using network pharmacology approaches. The interactions between the active compounds of EERM and their targets were validated through molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation and in vitro cell experiments. EERM contained 522 identified compounds. Topological analysis of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network identified 59 core targets, including key proteins like AKT1, IL-6, and EGFR, known for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to enhance bone cell proliferation and differentiation. Gene Ontology analysis indicated the involvement of EERM in biological processes such as peptidyl-serine phosphorylation, response to xenobiotic stimulus, and nutrient level regulation. KEGG analysis suggested that EERM's mechanism may involve signaling pathways such as PI3K-Akt, lipid and atherosclerosis, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, and MAPK pathways. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations results demonstrated a strong binding affinity between the main compounds of EERM and key targets. In vitro cell experiments demonstrate that EERM enhances cell proliferation by upregulating the expression levels of EGFR and STAT3, while simultaneously downregulating AKT1 and CASP3. This study investigates the potential active compounds of EERM and its key targets in regulating multiple pathways of fracture, leading to promoting bone cell proliferation. These results offer valuable insights for the future development and clinical application of Rhizoma Musae.

Evaluation of the sedative-hypnotic effects of Menyanthes trifoliata L. extract in mice.

Insomnia is a pervasive and prominent problem worldwide, afflicting approximately one-third of the population and profoundly affecting patients' quality of life. Efficient and safe sedative-hypnotic medications are required. Menyanthes trifoliata L. (Mt), a sleeping herb in China, is used as a hypnotic remedy in ethnomedicines; however, there are few studies on this herb. We systematically evaluated the potential of Mt as a sedative-hypnotic candidate. The chemical constituents of the Mt extract were analyzed by lLiquid chromatography with photodiode array detection and mass spectrometry (LC-PDA-MS). The sedative-hypnotic effects of Mt extract (0.5, 2, and 4g/kg) were investigated using the pentobarbital-induced sleep test (PIST), the caffeine-induced insomnia model (CIIM), and the open field test (OFT). Furthermore, the effect of Mt on sleep architecture was ‌investigated using electroencephalography/electromyography (EEG/EMG). The safety of the Mt extract was evaluated using the maximum tolerated dose method. Fifteen phenolic compounds were identified based on their UV absorption and MS fragmentation using LC-PDA-MS analysis. In the CIIM, PIST, and OFT, Mt extract exhibited a dose-dependent reduction in sleep latency, an extension of total sleep duration, and a decrease in locomotor activity. Moreover, it increased the duration of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and reduced wakefulness after one day's administration, according to EEG/EMG. Additionally, no signs of toxicity were observed at a dose of 30g/kg (equivalent to 316.46g/kg of crude drugs). This study supports the potential medicinal use of Mt extract for sleep promotion.

Secondary metabolite profiling, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory investigations of Symplocos paniculata (Thunb.) Miq., an ethnomedicinal plant from Kumaun Himalayan region

Background: Traditional medicine relies heavily on plant-based remedies for immune system modulation, offering advantages of affordability, reduced toxicity, minimal side effects, and better accessibility compared to synthetic alternatives. Symplocos paniculata (Thunb.) Miq. has been traditionally used in ethnomedicine for various ailments, though its chemical composition and therapeutic properties remain inadequately studied. Objectives: Thus, this study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition and evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of leaf and bark extracts from S. paniculata. Material and Methods: The study employed qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening methods, along with in vitro assays including DPPH radical scavenging and metal chelation for antioxidant activity, and protein denaturation for anti-inflammatory effects. GC-MS analysis was conducted to identify the phytoconstituents. Results and Conclusion: Phytochemical screening revealed diverse compounds, with leaf extracts showing higher concentrations of phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins compared to bark extracts. Bark extract demonstrated superior antioxidant properties with DPPH radical scavenging (IC50 = 61.37 μg/ml) and metal chelating (IC50 = 30.06 μg/ml) activities. Moderate anti-inflammatory activity was observed, with leaf extract showing slightly higher potency (IC50 = 222.81 μg/ml). GC-MS analysis identified terpenes, phytosterols, and fatty acids as major constituents in both extracts. The study provides scientific validation for traditional medicinal applications of S. paniculata through comprehensive characterization of its phytochemical profile and demonstration of significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, establishing its potential for pharmaceutical development.

Comparative analysis of antifungal activity of Rhazya stricta ethanolic extracts and biogenic silver nanoparticles against pathogenic fungi

Rhazya stricta, a perennial shrub native to the Middle East and South Asia, has been used in traditional medicine for various therapeutic purposes, including antimicrobial action. The current study aimed to compare the antifungal properties of 96% and 50% ethanolic extracts of R. stricta leaves and their biogenic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The phytochemical constituents of both extracts were analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The AgNPs were characterized using FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, DLS, and TEM, confirming bioactive chemicals’ effective production and existence. The antifungal efficacy was tested on five pathogenic fungi: Drechslera halodes, Drechslera tetramera, Macrophomina phaseolina, Alternaria alternata, and Curvularia australiensis. The 96% ethanol extract inhibited fungal growth the most, with D. halodes, C. australiensis, and A. alternata all experiencing almost 100% inhibition. AgNPs also showed strong antifungal efficacy, with those generated from 96% ethanol extract outperforming those from 50% ethanol extract. This study highlights the potential of R. stricta extracts and their biogenic AgNPs as environmentally friendly antifungal agents, which supports their use in long-term antimicrobial therapy.

Kalanchoe crenata Andrews (Haw.) Improves Losartan's Antihypertensive Activity.

Cardiovascular diseases constitute one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Herbal medicines represent viable alternatives to the synthetic drugs currently employed in the control of hypertension. This study aimed to isolate and identify the chemical markers of Kalanchoe crenata and to investigate the antihypertensive and anti-matrix metalloproteinase (MMP2) activities of an aqueous extract of the leaves. The main constituents of the aqueous extract of K. crenata were separated by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and their presence was identified by NMR spectroscopy. Renovascular hypertension was induced in male Wistar rats using the two-kidney one-clip method (HTN groups), while control animals (Sham groups) were submitted to Sham surgery. Six groups of 10 animals each were treated daily for eight weeks as follows: Sham 1 (carrier), Sham 2 (K. crenata extract), HTN.1 (carrier), HTN.2 (K. crenata extract), HTN 3 (losartan), and HTN 4 (K. crenata extract with losartan). The main compounds of the extract were patuletin 3-O-(4″-O-acetyl-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-7-O-(3‴-O-acetyl-α-L-rhamnopyranoside) (1), patuletin 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-7-O-L-rhamnopyranoside (2), and trans-caffeoyl-malic acid (3), with compounds 1 and 2 being chemical markers of the species. Significant reductions (p < 0.05) in systolic blood pressure and MMP2 (72kDa isoform) activity were observed in the HTN 4 group. The association of K. crenata extract and losartan presented in vivo effects against hypertension.

QUALITATIVE EVALUATION OF PHYTOCHEMICALS IN TAMARIX APHYLLA: A PRELIMIARY INVESTIGAATION

Background: Plants are rich sources of bioactive compounds, contributing significantly to healthcare by offering protection against microbial infections and other non-infectious ailments. Tamarix aphylla, commonly known as Athel tamarisk, is a halophytic plant widely recognized for its ethnopharmacological uses. Its secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, exhibit therapeutic potential. This study aimed to explore the phytochemical composition, antioxidant properties, and chemical constituents of the ethyl acetate extract of Tamarix aphylla. Objective: To analyze the phytochemical composition, evaluate antioxidant activity, and identify bioactive components in the ethyl acetate extract of Tamarix aphylla leaves. Methods: The leaves of Tamarix aphylla were collected, air-dried, and powdered. Ethyl acetate was used as the solvent for extraction. Phytochemical screening tests were conducted using standard protocols to detect the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, steroids, and triterpenoids. Antioxidant activity was assessed via the DPPH assay, and the IC50 value was determined. Quantification of total phenolic content was performed using gallic acid equivalents (GAE). Results: Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, while steroids and triterpenoids were absent. Total phenolic content was measured at 39.3 mg GAE/g extract. Antioxidant activity showed an inhibition range of 22.1% to 66.3% at concentrations of 1–25 mg/mL, with an IC50 value of 14.0 mg/mL compared to 9.0 mg/mL for vitamin C. Methanol was identified as the most effective solvent for metabolite extraction. Conclusion: The ethyl acetate extract of Tamarix aphylla demonstrates promising antioxidant activity and contains a variety of bioactive phytochemicals. This highlights its potential for therapeutic applications, warranting further research into its pharmacological properties and mechanisms of action.

Rapid Screening of Secondary Plant Metabolites using Two‐Dimensional Tandem Mass Spectrometry

AbstractThe full 2D tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) data domain provides a rapid survey of the chemical components of complex plant extracts without subjecting them to prior chromatographic separation. Nano electrospray ionization (nESI), desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) and paper spray ionization are used to create an ion mixture representative of the chemical constituents of a plant extract, then mass‐selective collision‐induced dissociation (CID) is used to automatically record fragments from each precursor ion in the mixture. Signal extraction from the 2D data domain yields matching spectra to conventional product and precursor ion scans and displays distributions of compounds bearing a chosen functionality. These features and other manipulations of the 2D MS/MS data are demonstrated using crude extracts of Artemisia annua (Sweet wormwood). Similarities and differences in the secondary metabolites of plant species are established rapidly by inspection of the 2D MS/MS plots. The methodology is characterized by the high speed of data acquisition while the limited mass resolution still allows high speed snapshots of chemistry.

Investigating the Pharmacological Potential of Micromeria myrtifolia Boiss. &amp; Hohen.: Phenolic Profiling and Biological Activity Assessments

Micromeria myrtifolia Boiss. &amp; Hohen. is a valuable medicinal plant in Türkiye, recognized for its extensive applications across the country. In this study, plant samples were collected from Muğla, Türkiye and extracts from both the aerial parts and roots were prepared using ethanol. To elucidate their phytochemical composition, a comprehensive LC-MS/MS analysis was conducted. The results revealed that both extracts were quite rich in phenolic compounds. Notably, nicotiflorin was the major constituent in both extracts (12878.31355.44 μg/g extract in the aerial parts and 47512.41311.34 μg/g extract in the roots) along with significant phenolic acids such as rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid as well as flavonoids like hesperidin. Moreover, both extracts demonstrated substantial antioxidant activities compared to the synthetic antioxidant compounds as evaluated by DPPH free radical scavenging, ABTS cation radical scavenging, and CUPRAC activity assays. Both aerial parts and root extracts also exhibited meaningful anti-glucosidase activity with 73.030.16% and 47.060.41%, respectively, at 2 mg/mL concentration. The root extract also showed moderate butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge with valuable insights regarding the phytochemical profile and biological activities of M. myrtifolia, paving the way for future research aimed at exploring its medicinal properties and potential uses in traditional and modern medicine.

Biocontrol toxicity of Trichoderma harzianum (Hypocreales: Hypocreaceae) derived chemical molecules against malarial mosquito Anopheles stephensi with molecular docking studies.

In this study, the crude chemical constituents extracted from Trichoderma harzianum and their toxicity were evaluated against the larvae, pupae, and adults of Anopheles stephensi at 24 and 48h post-treatment. Additionally, the chemical constituents of the crude extracts were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, and their ability to bind with target proteins was confirmed through molecular docking studies. The results clearly demonstrated that the chemical compounds from T. harzianum exhibited promising mortality rates in larvae (98.66%), pupae (92%), and adult mosquitoes (81.33%) of A. stephensi 48h after treatment. The study assessed the impact of crude extracts on insect enzymes 24h post treatment, revealing significant alterations: a reduction in catalase activity and an increase in glutathione S-transferase levels compared to the control group. The treatment with crude chemical extracts resulted in mortality rates of 37.33% and 52% at 24 and 48h, respectively, on Artemia salina , indicating minimal effects. After 48h, the crude extract exhibited minimal toxicity on Eudrilus eugeniae, with a recorded mortality rate of 15% after 48h. GC-MS analysis of T. harzianum-derived crude extracts identified ten major chemical constituents. Among these, chemicals, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) phenol (19.02%) was recognized as the predominant chemical component. This 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) phenol molecule demonstrates a high binding affinity with target proteins, which is a key factor contributing to its insecticidal activity. This study concludes that the chemical constituents derived from T. harzianum are promising candidates for an eco-friendly, effective, and target-specific alternative control method for A. stephensi mosquitos.

Constituents of Pomegranate Peel Extract, and its Ameliorative Effect Against the Toxicity of Vancomycin on the Hematological Parameters of Male Albino Rats

Constituents of Pomegranate Peel Extract, and its Ameliorative Effect Against the Toxicity of Vancomycin on the Hematological Parameters of Male Albino Rats

Chemical Composition and Analgesic and Antidiabetic Activity of Chenopodium ambrosioides L.

This study focuses on identifying active compounds within Chenopodium ambrosioides extracts and fractions, with a specific emphasis on their potential analgesic and antidiabetic properties. The motivation arises from the reported therapeutic effects of the plant and the desire to pinpoint the compounds responsible for these benefits. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry spectrophotometric analysis was employed to characterize chemical constituents in the aqueous extracts (infused aqueous extract and macerated aqueous extract) and fractions (cyclohexane fraction, ethyl acetate fraction, butanol fraction, remaining aqueous fraction) of C. ambrosioides. Animal models were used to examine the analgesic activity, while α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzyme assays were used to investigate the antidiabetic effect. Throughout the investigation, several chemical families were found, including phenolic compounds, alcohols, acids, terpenes, steroids, and others. Trans-ascaridol glycol, palmitic acid, phenol, octadecadienoic acid, isoascaridol, eicosanoic acid, 2-methoxy-4-vinyl phenol, mexiletine, and thymol were among the significant chemicals found. At a dose of 500 mg/m, starting with α-amylase inhibition, among the extracts, EAF (59 ± 0.7 μg/mL) showed the highest potency, followed by FA (129 ± 0.22 μg/mL), FB (140 ± 0.9 μg/mL), and EAM (178 ± 0.9 μg/mL). Interestingly, EAI demonstrated a relatively weak inhibition (430 ± 0.2 μg/mL), and no result was reported for FCH in this category. Regarding α-glucosidase inhibition, the most potent activity was observed with EAM (1.4 ± 0.7 μg/mL), The other extracts demonstrated varying levels of inhibition, with EAI (4.4 ± 0.5 μg/mL) and EAF (140 ± 1.9 μg/mL) showing moderate activity. FA (25 ± 0.9 μg/mL) and FB (34 ± 0.3 μg/mL) exhibited lower inhibition compared to EAM but still outperformed acarbose in this test. The observed synergistic effects of phenolic compounds in Chenopodium ambrosioides provide insights into the biological properties contributing to its reported analgesic and antidiabetic effects. The study underscores the potential of natural plant products for pharmaceutical applications, especially in enzymatic inhibition. All things considered, these results add to the expanding corpus of information about substances originating from plants and their uses in industry and health.

Air/water interfacial properties and thin film drainage dynamics of compositionally diverse wheat flour water extracts

The role of water-extractable (WE) wheat flour constituents and their interactions in determining the stability of wheat-based foam-type foods remain largely unexplored. Additionally, the contribution of drainage dynamics of the thin liquid films (TLFs) between gas bubbles to food foam stabilization is often overlooked. We here investigated the air/water (A/W) interfacial, TLF drainage, and foaming properties of compositionally diverse wheat flour aqueous extracts. Such extracts were prepared and then either used as such or modified by dialyzing out (i) low molecular mass constituents or (ii) both low molecular mass constituents and enzymatically hydrolyzed carbohydrates. This approach resulted in extracts with gradually increasing protein contents and distinct carbohydrate compositions. Wheat extract constituents created highly elastic A/W interfaces, regardless of the type of extract modification, suggesting a significant contribution from WE wheat proteins. TLFs stabilized by wheat extracts from which low molecular mass constituents were removed had significantly greater stability. This was ascribed to an increased disjoining pressure caused by steric repulsive forces, which in turn were attributed to the interaction between high molecular mass arabinoxylan in the bulk and adsorbed proteins at the A/W interfaces. All extracts showed similarly good foaming properties, implying a dominant role for WE wheat proteins in determining foaming. The strongly elastic A/W interfaces formed by WE wheat proteins likely reduced liquid drainage to such extent that coalescence and disproportionation were largely delayed. The findings of this study could facilitate further investigations on the possibility of tuning protein-AX interactions toward improved foam stability.

The Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Antitumor Proprieties of Flavonol-Rich Extracts from Allium ursinum (Wild Garlic) Leaves: A Comparison of Conventional Maceration and Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Techniques.

Despite the growing interest in using natural compounds for disease prevention and treatment, Allium ursinum (wild garlic), known for its therapeutic properties, has not been extensively studied for its chemical composition and biological activities. Therefore, this study aims to explore the in vitro antioxidant, antibacterial, and antitumor activities of A. ursinum extracts according to their functional phytochemical profile, while assessing whether ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) enhances bioactive properties in comparison to conventional maceration (CM). Both extracts were characterized by spectrophotometric methods and LC-ESI+-MS. The antioxidant activity was assessed via the CUPRAC and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays, the antimicrobial properties via the disk-diffusion method against five pathogenic strains, and the antitumor activity via the MTT assay on four cancer cell lines. The major constituents of the methanolic extracts from leaves were kaempferol derivatives and alliin. The quercetin derivative rutin was also found. Maceration assisted using UAE yielded 20% more bioactive compounds in comparison to CM alone. Employing UAE in the extraction significantly increased antioxidant and antimicrobial proprieties, in line with its chemical composition. The antitumor cytotoxic activity was low to moderate, regardless of method, as explained by the absence of highly cytotoxic compounds. Wild garlic extracts possessed strong antioxidant and substantial antibacterial activities.

Tracheloside, the main constituent of the total lignan extract from Trachelospermi Caulis, inhibited rheumatoid arthritis via IL-17/MAPK signaling pathway

A quantitative analysis method was established using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to simultaneously determine five lignans in the total lignan extract (TLE) from Trachelospermi Caulis at 280 nm, including nortracheloside, tracheloside, nortrachelogenin, trachelogenin, and arctigenin. The method demonstrated good linearity for each lignan within their respective ranges, with precision, stability, and repeatability meeting the criteria for quantitative analysis. Tracheloside, the most abundant compound in the TLE, effectively inhibited the release of inflammatory factors IL-6 and IL-17, and suppressed the migration MH7A cells in vitro. Furthermore, tracheloside reduced the production of key inflammatory factors, including COX-2, IL-6, IL-17, MMP2, MMP3, MMP9, JNK, p-JNK, p38, and p-p38 in TNF-α induced MH7A cells, thereby inhibiting the IL-17/MAPK signaling pathway, and thus contributing to its anti-rheumatoid arthritis effects. This study represents the first report on the simultaneous quantification of five major lignans from Trachelospermi Caulis and the anti-inflammatory properties of tracheloside.

Anticariogenic activity of marine brown algae Padina boergesenii and its active components towards Streptococcus mutans.

Streptococcus mutans is a well-recognized bacterium that plays a predominant role in the progression of dental caries. Its pathogenicity is linked to several key characteristics, including the ability to produce organic acids (acidogenicity), thrive in low pH environments (aciduricity), synthesize exopolysaccharides (EPS) via glucosyltransferases, and form retentive biofilms. The treatment of dental caries with conventional antibiotics is often ineffective due to the bacterium's capacity to form recalcitrant biofilms. To address these challenges, strategies that specifically target the pathogen's virulence without affecting its viability have emerged as promising alternatives. In this context, we investigated the anticariogenic properties of the methanolic extract of Padina boergesenii (MEPB). MEPB demonstrated substantial, dose-dependent antibiofilm activity, with a maximum inhibition of 93% at 128 μg/mL, without compromising the viability of S. mutans. Anti-virulence assays using sub-MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) levels of MEPB showed significant reductions in key virulence factors: 75% reduction in sucrose-dependent adherence, 65% reduction in sucrose-independent adherence, along with notable decreases in acid production, acid tolerance, and water-insoluble (85%) and water-soluble (52%) glucan synthesis. Additionally, MEPB significantly reduced cell surface hydrophobicity (55%) and extracellular DNA (eDNA) production (64%). qPCR analysis corroborated these in vitro findings, revealing that MEPB suppresses the expression of genes involved in S. mutans virulence, particularly genes related to EPS synthesis (gtfB, gtfC & gtfD) biofilm formation(gbpB & gbpC) and two-component regulatory system (vicR) were downregulated. Toxicity testing on human buccal epithelial cells confirmed the non-toxic nature of MEPB, suggesting its safety for potential therapeutic use. Furthermore, GC-MS/MS analysis identified palmitic acid, myristic acid, and stearic acid as the major active constituents of the MEPB extract. Subsequent biofilm inhibitory assays confirmed the potent antibiofilm efficacy of these compounds: palmitic acid (85%), myristic acid (72%) and stearic acid (83%). In conclusion, this study identifies P. boergesenii and its active biomolecules as potential anticariogenic agents, offering an alternative approach to combat dental caries by targeting bacterial virulence mechanisms rather than viability.

Phytogenic synthesis and antimicrobial activity of ZnO nano bow ties (ZnO NBTs): An experimental and computational study

Phytogenic synthesis is a sustainable and eco-friendly approach for producing nanoscale particles, using biological entities such as plants and their byproducts. In this study, Allium sativum extract was selected as a capping and reducing agent due to the presence of phytochemicals such as allicin, diallyl disulfide (DADS), vinyl dithiins, ajoene (E- and Z-ajoene), diallyl trisulfide (DATS), and thiol (sulfhydryl) groups. The resulting ZnO Nano Bow Ties (ZnO NBTs) were characterized using FE-SEM, XRD, EDX, DLS, zeta potential, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy to evaluate the size, morphology, and crystallinity. The obtained XRD, SEM, and DLS results suggested an average longitudinal length of ∼372 nm with a maximum lateral width of ∼64 nm and a Bow Tie shape. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis was employed to elucidate the prominent phytochemical constituents of the Allium sativum extract. Preliminary antibacterial assays reveal significant inhibition zones and growth inhibition effects against gram-negative bacteria of both Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, suggesting the promising antimicrobial potential of these ZnO NBTs. Monte Carlo simulations revealed that the cone-shaped ZnO NBTs bind strongly to the active sites of the target proteins with binding affinities of −36.20 and −32.14 kcal/mol for Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli respectively, which correlates with their activities. The ZnO NBTs complexes formed stronger hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds with amino acid residues of Escherichia coli than with Klebsiella pneumoniae. This integrated experimental and computational study underscores the potential of the use of ZnO NBTs as a sustainable and effective strategy to combat bacterial pathogens. The findings of this study indicate that efficient morphology (shape) is a major contributor to the protein binding affinities of ZnO NBTs, with promising implications for the design of antibacterial drugs in nanomedicine.

Curcuma longa rhizome extract: a potential antibiofilm agent against antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens

The traditional medicinal value of Curcuma longa (turmeric) and its potential relevance in modern healthcare suggests that traditional remedies and natural products can provide valuable solutions to contemporary challenges, such as combating biofilms and antibiotic-resistant pathogens, potentially offering new strategies for addressing health and safety issues in the fields of food and medicine. This study assessed the antibiofilm and antibacterial characterization of Curcuma longa rhizome extract against antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis were determined to check for the compounds, functional groups, and constituents of the plant extract. In-vitro antibiofilm and antibacterial bioassay of the extract were determined using standard bacteriological procedures. Potential mechanisms of the plant extract were also studied using standard biological methods. The important chemical constituents from the GC-MS extract of C. longa are arturmerone, cinnamyl angelate, tumerone, γ-atlantone, atlantone, α-atlantone, γ-atlantone and curlone. The FTIR analysis of the extract comprises alkyl halides, bromoalkanes, alkanes, ethylene molecules, arenes, amines, alcohols, sulfones, carboxylic acids and their derivatives, aromatic compounds, and phenols. The MIC of C. longa crude extract ranges from ethanol extract (0.03125 − 0.5 mg/mL) and acetone extract (0.0625 − 0.5 mg/mL). The MBC range is as follows: ethanol extract (0.125 − 1 mg/mL), acetone extract (0.125 − 1 mg/mL). The time-kill kinetics showed significant cell reduction with time. The bacterial isolates’ nucleic acids and protein leakage were consistent with increased extract concentration and time. There was a reduction in the biofilm cell on the shrimp surface and EPS with increased concentration and time. C. longa exerted significant anti-biofilm activity by removing existing biofilms, disrupting cell connections, and decreasing cells in biofilms. These findings can aid food protection from microbial contamination and prevent biofilms-related infections.

A Biolayer Interferometry-Based SARS-COV-2 Mpro-Targeted Active Ingredients Recognition System: Construction and Application in Ligand Screening From Herbal Medicines.

Drug discovery research targeting SARS-CoV-2 and other emerging pathogens remains critically important. Active compounds derived from plants frequently serve as lead compounds for further drug discovery; however, numerous unrelated chemical constituents in crude extracts may obscure the effective ingredients in LC-MS analysis. The aim of this study is to construct a biolayer interferometry (BLI)-based system for recognizing active ingredients that inhibit the main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2 and to identify the active chemical components binding to Mpro from herbal medicines. We developed a novel FRET fluorogenic probe by linking the amino acid sequences of the fluorescent proteins Lssmorange and mKate2 (Ls-mK). The interaction between traditional Chinese medicine and Mpro was analyzed using BLI. Ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) was employed to analyze the composition of herbal medicines. Fluorescence detection and spectroscopy confirmed the successful construction of an Mpro inhibitor screening system. Lanqin Oral Liquid (LQL) and Gardeniae fructus exhibited strong inhibitory effects on Mpro. Ten compounds were identified from G. fructus extracts; among them, deacetyl asperulosidic acid methyl ester (DAAME) and Gardoside were found to strongly bind to Mpro, with dissociation constants (KD) of 3.41 μM and 801 nM, respectively. The half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of DAAME and Gardoside for Mpro were 27.46 and 13.7 μM, respectively. This study established a functional Mpro inhibitor screening system. Among the 10 components identified from G. fructus that bind to Mpro, DAAME and Gardoside displayed strong binding and inhibitory activity, indicating their potential as lead compounds for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 viral replication.

Unlocking the Cardiovascular Benefits of Walnuts: Insights on Molecular Mechanism From Animal Studies.

The health-promoting benefits of walnut consumption are substantially ascribed to its fatty acid (FA) profile, which is rich in polyunsaturated FA with an exceptionally high n-3 to n-6 ratio. There are also phytonutrients in walnuts that are linked to health welfare. This review article integrates all studies on the effects of walnuts on the cardiovascular system performed on experimental animals, and thus is a source of data on the mechanisms underlying the observed effects. These studies, which are very diverse in experimental design, indicate that a diet enriched with walnuts or treating animals with walnut extract or chemical constituents of walnuts, has many favorable effects on heart and vascular system function. The cardiovascular effect of walnuts depends on the metabolic status of the organism. Among the cardiovascular effects of walnuts is that they improve the FA profile in the circulation and heart in favor of n-3 polyunsaturated FAs. In addition, a favorable effect on triglyceride and cholesterol status, which reduces cardiovascular disease risk, is observed. Intake of walnuts promotes FA catabolism and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiarrhythmic effects. Walnuts also have a beneficial effect on vascular tone, accompanied by a decrease in blood pressure and reduced risk for atherosclerosis. In conclusion, studies on experimental animals encourage the consumption of walnuts as a simple, convenient approach to improve cardiovascular health.

Antibacterial potency of mid-polar extracts obtained from Malaysian plant Parkia speciosa against human pathogenic bacteria

Background and objectivesPlants contain a wide variety of bioactive compounds, which have attracted the interest of researchers in finding novel sources of natural medicine. In the following paper, we aim to evaluate the antibacterial potential of extract fractions associated with Parkia speciosa pods and beans against human pathogenic bacteria. MethodsAntimicrobial activity was determined with disc diffusion and broth microdilution assays against eight skin colonising microorganisms including Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia followed by further fractionation of the pods ethyl acetate fraction by column chromatography along with preparative thin-layer chromatography. Quantification of bacterial death mechanism was elucidated by the measurement of hole size in cell wall that has been induced by extract constituents via field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). ResultsFour fractions showed significant antimicrobial activity against the six microorganisms tested (p < 0.01), with inhibition zones ranging from 35.67 to 17.00 mm, and minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 6.25 to 50.00 mg/ml in which the pods ethyl acetate fraction was the most effective. The methanol fraction isolated from the pods ethyl acetate fraction was much more effective with a four-fold increase from 6.25 to 1.25 mg/ml against S. epidermidis. The disintegration of S. aureus was due to chronic cell wall alterations with pore creation, invaginations and morphological disorganisation. Autolysis in bacterial cells via the expression of peptidoglycan-disrupting lysozyme or bacterial murein hydrolase was postulated. A significantly large pore with a mean diameter of 293.7 nm was detected in the cell wall of S. aureus. ConclusionP. speciosa fraction could be a potential novel source for the development of a natural antibacterial agent.