Mulberry Extract Research Articles

Morus alba: natural and valuable effects in weight loss management

Overweight and obesity are conditions associated with serious comorbidities, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Prevalence of excessive fat accumulation is increasing worldwide, and thus the need for efficient and sustainable weight loss regimes has become a major issue in clinical practice. Despite the important advances in the development of anti-obesity medications (AOM), their side effects, cost, and accessibility, are limiting factors for their routine use. Conversely, the studies of medicinal plants for weight management holds strong promise as a growing area of research. This review consolidates the representative evidence about the beneficial impacts of Morus alba on weight management and associated metabolic parameters, encompassing: inhibition of digestive enzymes, and thus contribution to the energy deficit required for weight loss, improvements in glucose and lipid metabolism, and attenuation of adiposity. Findings from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical investigations reviewed in the paper, demonstrate that white mulberry extracts have the potency to supplement efficiently and safely a healthy weight management approach.

BIOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND DETERMINATION OF ADULTERATION OF BLACK MULBERRY EXTRACTS

Black mulberry is crucial for its high content of bioactive substances, such as phenolic compounds and vitamin C, as well as nutritional values, such as carbohydrates, fats, fibre and minerals. This study aimed to determine the physical, biochemical and nutritional properties of 35 different brands of black mulberry extracts sold in our country. Consequently of the studies, it was observed that some of the extracts sold in our country had a very high HMF value; most of them contained no protein and additional maltose and derivatives. In addition, all of these black mulberry extracts were low in minerals and contained additional sweeteners, preservatives and synthetic colourings. Synthetic colourings were found in many of these black mulberry extracts and carbon 13 levels were not appropriate. When BME-34 and 35 brands of black mulberry extract were analysed, all of the above values were appropriate, and consistent with previous studies in the literature.

Mulberry's healing Touch: Exploring ethnobotanical roots and medicinal potentials in the treatment of atopic dermatitis

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMorus alba L., mulberry, has played a significant role in providing food, medicine, and materials throughout human history. From its historical importance to its diverse cultural uses, mulberry remains a versatile and valuable resource, enriching various aspects of human life across civilizations. Mulberry exhibits ethnopharmacological applications for treating various ailments including atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema.Aim of the study: The objective of the study was extracting the putative active substances from white mulberry, evaluating potential of the extract in treating and reducing reliance on chemical medications by providing a chemical composition of the extract along with effect of extracts on eczema symptoms. Materials and methodsFor testing the impact of mulberry extract on relieving eczema symptoms, white mulberry fruit extracts were prepared by butanol extraction. Water-in-oil (W/O) emulsification was used to prepare ointment. Analysis of the mulberry extract was conducted using GC-MS after additional processing of extracts. Clinical trials on 110 individuals, divided into patient-treatment, normal-treatment, and patient-placebo groups, involved applying the ointment containing 0.5% mulberry fruit extract for 4–6 weeks, with blood sample analysis before and after the trial. Blood samples were analyzed for various parameters including Granzyme B, Vit. E, TC, TG, HDL, and LDL levels. The antibacterial activity of the extract against Staphylococcus aureus was determined using involve growth curve analysis and inhibition of colony formation on LB plates. Morus alba L. name was checked from “World Flora Online” (www.worldfloraonline.org) and MPNS (mpns.kew.org) ResultsWe monitored a noticeable enhancement in the skin ulceration after the treatment. In addition, Granzyme B, Vitamin E, TC, TG, HDL, and LDL levels were improved in the patient-treatment group closer to healthy levels, indicating potential therapeutic benefits of Morus alba extract. The extract's efficacy was also tested on S. aureus, a bacterium commonly associated with eczema. Results showed that extract obtained from white mulberry fruits has an inhibitory impact on S. aureus growth. ConclusionsThe findings suggest that Morus alba extract holds promise as a therapeutic intervention for atopic dermatitis, demonstrating significant improvements in key biomarkers towards levels observed in healthy individuals.

Liposomal black mulberry extract loaded‐nanofibers: preparation, characterisation, and bioaccessibility of phenolics by simulated in vitro digestion combined with the Caco‐2 cell model

SummaryBlack mulberry extract (BME) is rich in phenolics; however, their health benefits are restricted by their instability and poor absorption in the small intestine. Liposomal BME‐loaded pullulan/pectin nanofibers were developed to enhance the in vitro bioaccessibility of BME. The liposomes with BME (0.8%, w/v), were produced by the thin‐film hydration and ultrasonication method with a size of 76.41 ± 1.23 nm and encapsulated 79.40 ± 0.99%.of the BME. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images showed that the uniform distribution of liposomes within the defect‐free fiber structure. Liposomal BME loading elevated the mucoadhesiveness of the nanofibers compared to free BME loading. Liposomal BME‐loaded nanofiber demonstrated a nearly two‐fold increase in the bioaccessibility of anthocyanins. The cellular release of all four different anthocyanins by Caco‐2 cells was significantly higher (3.92%–10.50%) in liposomal BME‐loaded nanofiber. Therefore, liposomal nanofibers show great potential as a method for delivering phenolics, specifically anthocyanins.

FORMULATION OF NANOSTRUCTURED LIPID CARRIER GEL FROM CALLUS EXTRACT OF MULBERRY LEAF (MORUS ALBA L.) WITH 2, 4-DICHLORO PHENOXY ACETIC ACID AND BENZYL AMINO PURINE AS CALLUS GROWTH FACTOR

Objective: This research aimed to formulate the callus extract of mulberry leaf in the form of a Nanostructured lipid Carrier (NLC) gel. Methods: Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4–D) and Benzyl Amino Purine (BAP) was used as a callus growth factor. Callus leaf extracted with ethanol 96% by maceration-sonication method. An amount of 0.5% callus leaf extract was formulated into NLC. The NLC is then evaluated for its particle size and polydispersity index. The NLC gel is evaluated for its organoleptic, homogeneity, viscosity, flow ability, and pH. The callus extract and the NLC gel were also evaluated for their tyrosinase inhibitor activity. Results: The best formulation of NLC showed a particle size of 189.8 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.578. The NLC is a semi-solid, yellowish, odorless, homogeneous gel, with viscosity of 26,666.67 cPs, plastic-thixotropic type, pH of 5.26. The evaluation of tyrosinase inhibitory activity of the callus extract and the NLC gel showed IC50 value of 217.64 and 248.12 ug/ml. Conclusion: It can be concluded that leaf callus extract of mulberry can be formulated into an NLC gel that is physically and chemically stable and has good skin-lightening activity.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticle Using Black Mulberry and Characterization, Phytochemical, and Bioactivity.

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using plant extracts has been proposed as a more advantageous and environmentally friendly alternative compared to existing physical/chemical methods. In this study, AgNPs were synthesized from silver nitrate using black mulberry (BM) extract. The biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized through an UV-visible spectrometer, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. Additionally, BM-AgNPs were subjected to antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. AgNPs biosynthesized from BM extract were dark brown in color and showed a strong peak at 437 nm, confirming that AgNPs were successfully synthesized. The size of AgNPs was 170.17 ± 12.65 nm, the polydispersity index was 0.281 ± 0.07, and the zeta potential value was -56.6 ± 0.56 mV, indicating that the particles were stable. The higher total phenol, flavonoid, and anthocyanin content of BM-AgNPs compared to BM extract indicates that the particles contain multiple active substances due to the formation of AgNPs. The DPPH and ABTS assays showed decreased IC50 values compared to BM extract, demonstrating improved antioxidant activity. AgNPs inhibited the growth of S. aureus and E. coli at 600 μg/mL, with minimum bactericidal concentrations determined to be 1000 and 1200 μg/mL, respectively. The anti-inflammatory activity was 64.28% at a BM-AgNPs concentration of 250 μg/mL. As the concentration increased, the difference from the standard decreased, indicating the inhibitory effect of AgNPs on bovine serum albumin denaturation. The viability of MCF-7 cells treated with BM-AgNPs was found to be significantly lower than that of cells treated with BM extract. The IC50 value of BM-AgNPs was determined to be 96.9 μg/mL. This study showed that BM-AgNPs have the potential to be used in the pharmaceutical industry as antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer agents.

THE EFFECT OF HERBAL APPROACHES ON ORAL MUCOSITIS IN ADULT CANCER PATIENTS - A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF NURSING STUDIES

Objective: to examine the effects of herbal approaches on oral mucositis in adult cancer patients. Method: systematic review following Cochrane guidelines, with a search for experimental and randomized studies from 2013 to 2023. English studies on herbal interventions in patients over 18 years were included. Results: eight studies that used herbal interventions to treat oral mucositis were evaluated. The herbs tested included aloe vera, althaea root, turmeric, chamomile, grape vinegar, rose water, fruit/vegetable juice, and mulberry extract. The interventions varied in frequency and duration but showed positive results, reducing oral mucositis intensity, pain, and other symptoms. Some interventions were as effective as conventional treatments like chlorhexidine. Conclusion: the research suggests that herbal approaches can be beneficial in managing oral mucositis in cancer patients, but more studies are needed to confirm these results.

The Effect of Different Ethanol Concentrations as The Extraction Solvent on Total Flavonoid Content of White Mulberry Leaves Extracts (Morus alba L.)

White mulberry leaves (Morus alba L.) contain flavonoid which empirically have many health benefits, such as reducing fever, relieving headaches and throats, coughs, dysentery, digestive disorders, flu, and according to research it has antioxidant activity. Many factors effect the total flavonoid content, one of which is the concentration of the extraction solvent. The purpose of the research was to determine the effect of different ethanol concentrations as the extraction solvent on total flavonoid content of white mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaves extract. White mulberry leaves (Morus alba L.) were extracted using the maceration method, the extract was tested for phytochemical screening and thin layer chromatography using chloroform: ethyl acetate (6: 4) as the eluent. The resulting spots were observed visually and with λ 254 nm and λ 366 nm UV light. Determination of flavonoid content by UV-Vis spectrophotometry using the AlCl3 colorimetric method at a maximum wavelength of 415 nm. The research results showed that the yield of 50% and 96% ethanol extract of white mulberry leaves (Morus alba L.) was 17.42 % and 11.04 %. Phytochemical screening showed that both extracts positively contained flavonoids. The presence of flavonoids was confirmed using a thin layer chromatography test, resulting in an average Rf value for 50% and 96% ethanol extracts are 0.71 and 0.70, close to quercetin Rf standard is 0,73 as comparison. The total flavonoid content obtained from the 50% ethanol extract was 36.0902 mgQE/g and the 96% ethanol extract was 56.4699 mgQE/g. The conclusions are the concentration of the extraction solvent effect the yield and total flavonoid content.

Potential Role and Mechanism of Mulberry Extract in Immune Modulation: Focus on Chemical Compositions, Mechanistic Insights, and Extraction Techniques.

Mulberry is a rapidly growing plant that thrives in diverse climatic, topographical, and soil types, spanning temperature and temperate countries. Mulberry plants are valued as functional foods for their abundant chemical composition, serving as a significant reservoir of bioactive compounds like proteins, polysaccharides, phenolics, and flavonoids. Moreover, these compounds displayed potent antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals, inhibiting reactive oxygen species generation, and restoring elevated nitric oxide production induced by LPS stimulation through the downregulation of inducible NO synthase expression. Active components like oxyresveratrol found in Morus demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting leukocyte migration through the MEK/ERK signaling pathway. Gallic and chlorogenic acids in mulberry leaves (ML) powder-modulated TNF, IL-6, and IRS1 proteins, improving various inflammatory conditions by immune system modulation. As we delve deeper into understanding its anti-inflammatory potential and how it works therapeutically, it is crucial to refine the extraction process to enhance the effectiveness of its bioactive elements. Recent advancements in extraction techniques, such as solid-liquid extraction, pressurized liquid extraction, superficial fluid extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and ultrasonic-assisted extraction, are being explored. Among the extraction methods tested, including Soxhlet extraction, maceration, and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), UAE demonstrated superior efficiency in extracting bioactive compounds from mulberry leaves. Overall, this comprehensive review sheds light on the potential of mulberry as a natural immunomodulatory agent and provides insights into its mechanisms of action for future research and therapeutic applications.

Evaluation of Mediterranean Tree Leaves as Valuable Biomass of Digestive Enzymes and Bacterial Inhibitors in the Concept of Circular Bioeconomy

This study aspires to evaluate the antibacterial and inhibitory effects of carbohydrate digestive enzymes in tree leaves that are widely distributed in the Mediterranean region. Leaves were sequentially extracted with solvents of increasing polarity. The results demonstrated a wide range of phenolic (3.5–770.7 mg gallic acid equivalent g−1) and flavonoid (0.2–321.3 mg catechin equivalent g−1) contents in leaf extracts. The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration of leaf extracts was determined for six bacteria using the broth microdilution method. The polar extracts of carob, lentisk, and white mulberry leaves exerted strong antibacterial potency against Gram-positive bacteria, while the susceptibility of Escherichia coli on relative apolar extracts of carob, fig, and olive leaves was also observed. In parallel, the inhibitory effects of leaf extracts on carbohydrate digestive enzymes were evaluated. A robust inhibition of α-glucosidase was found for carob and lentisk leaf extracts, followed by extracts produced by white mulberry and olive leaves. Carob and lentisk leaves also act as a-amylase inhibitors at high concentrations. Overall, this study provides valuable data for the nutraceutical value of the “forgotten” treasure of Mediterranean tree leaves and assesses these plants as potential sources of antibacterial and carbohydrate digestive enzyme inhibitory agents for drug discovery.

Molecular mechanisms of the effects of mulberry (Morus Rubra) extracts on UV-radiation and oxidative stress-induced skin cell damage

Solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation, while beneficial for the homeostasis of human skin at proper doses, causes skin cell damage under extreme conditions, with a result of photoaging and skin cancer. With the depletion of the ozone layer, the prevalence of UV-induced skin cancer including melanoma has increased dramatically worldwide. Unfortunately, that poses a public health challenge for almost all countries. Over the past two decades, we have been working extensively on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which UV radiation induces skin aging and skin cancer. We have observed that UV radiation activates cell surface receptors, more pronouncedly EGFR, leading to a cascade of activation of MAP kinase pathways, with a result of MMP activation and in turn matrix degradation, and apoptosis. We have also found that UV radiation induces the downregulation of water channel aquaporins and skin cell dehydration. This novel discovery together with other reports has resulted in the emergence of numerous skin care products. Moreover, UV radiation induces the generation of reactive oxygen species, which exacerbates skin cell damage. With this important line of discovery, more skin care products with added antioxidants have been developed. Mulberries ( Morus Rubra) have been known to be rich in antioxidants and applied to cosmetic products in Asian countries with reported effcacy although the cellular and molecular mechanisms of its actions remain elusive. The objective of this study was to investigate these mechanisms from various perspectives. We hypothesize that the mulberry extracts affect cell signaling pathways that lead to protection against UV radiation or oxidative stressed-induced cell damage. First, we extracted the antioxidants with methanol from two types of mulberries, red and white. Human skin keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) were treated with UV radiation and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), with and without mulberry extracts. Confocal microscopy and Western blot analysis were employed to measure various cell signaling components. The results showed that mulberry extracts protect against UV radiation and H2O2 induced cell death, with red extracts showing better protection than white extracts. Mulberry extracts attenuate H2O2-induced mitochondrial activity as tested by MitoTracker™ Red CMXRos. Our previous studies have shown that UV radiation induces mTOR pathway activation evidenced by elevation of phosphorylated S6. Interestingly, in this study, Western blot analysis data indicated that mulberry extracts potentiate UV-induced S6 phosphorylation and H2O2-induced MEK activation. Furthermore, confocal data demonstrated that mulberry extract pretreatment inhibits IL1β induced NFκB p65 translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. Taken all together, our data suggest that mulberry extracts containing abundant antioxidants affect MAPK kinase and mTOR pathways and modulate cell signaling pathways associated with skin cell survival and inflammation under UV radiation and oxidative stress. Funding from the Committee on Aid to Faculty Research (CAFR) from Providence College. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Mulberry: A Multipurpose Plant

Abstract: Mulberry, a member of the Moraceae family, is regarded as a special plant because of its wide geographic distribution across continents, its adaptability to different cultivation methods, and the various uses of its leafy foliage. It has several benefits for environmental safety measures like soil erosion prevention, bioremediation of polluted sites, water conservation, and air quality improvement through carbon sequestration. The Mulberry is also employed as a medicinal plant to improve and enhance the quality of human life. The potential antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, anti-cancer, and anti-tyrosinase inhibitory action of mulberry extracts from the leaf, stem, root, and bark have been documented. Mulberries are a great source of nutrients and phytochemicals with potent medicinal properties, making them a highly nourishing food for humans. The mulberry fruit is a key ingredient in many value-added products, such as jams, jellies, wines, and syrups, since it is high in carbohydrates, protein, and dietary fibre. Mulberry leaves are an excellent source for creating of protein-rich food products with built-in antioxidants. Although Mulberry is produced professionally for sericulture in many nations, its potential for use as a human food source is not well known. The review discusses the value of mulberry as a source for various food, cosmetics, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. All of the crucial mulberry species were compiled in this review article to evaluate it as the perfect plant for ensuring a better future.

Bioactivity, phytochemistry studies and subacute in vivo toxicity of ethanolic leaf extract of white mulberry (Morus alba linn.) in female mice

Ethnopharmacological relevanceTraditional uses of Morus alba L. leaf extracts (MLE) have been reported for treating hyperglycaemia and diabetes. Phytochemical compounds in the leaves demonstrated the ability to enhance insulin sensitivity and β-cell secretory function, suggesting their potential value in reducing blood glucose and treating diabetes. However, the phytochemical constituents and safety of the herbal medicines need to be verified in each experimental field from different growing areas. Studies on the phytochemistry and toxicity of Morus alba leaves in Southeast Asia, especially in Brunei, have never been investigated. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to investigate the bioactivity and phytochemistry of Morus alba ethanolic leaf extract from Brunei Darussalam and its subacute toxic effects in the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) female mice. Materials and methodsThe phenolic yield and antioxidant of the extract were analysed. Meanwhile, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography were utilised to determine the phenolic compound of the MLE. In the subacute toxicity study, twenty-five female mice were randomly divided into five groups: the control group, which received oral gavage of 5% dimethyl sulfoxide solvent (DMSO), and the MLE treatment group, which received the extract at a dose of 125, 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg. Physiology, haematology, biochemistry, and histology were evaluated during the study. ResultsMorus alba leaf depicted total phenolic 10.93 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dry weight (DW), flavonoid 256.67 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g DW, and antioxidant bioactivity content of 602.03 IC50 μg/mL and 13.21 mg Fe2+/g DW. Twenty compounds in the Morus alba ethanolic leaf extract were identified, with chlorogenic acid (305.60 mg/100 g DW) as the primary compound. As for subacute toxicity in this study, neither mortality nor haematological changes were observed. On the other hand, administration of 500 and 1000 mg/kg MLE resulted in mild hepatocellular injury, as indicated by a significant (p < 0.05) increase in liver enzyme activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The histopathological score showed mild hepatocellular necrosis in administering 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg of MLE. The parameters of renal injury were within normal limits, with the increase in eosinophilic cytoplasm observed in the histological scoring at 1000 mg/kg of MLE. ConclusionsMorus alba leaf extract showed abundant polyphenols. In a study on subacute toxicity, MLE caused mild hepatotoxicity in mice. The toxic effect of the extract may be due to kaempferol and chlorogenic acid compounds. The 125 mg/kg MLE dose was safe with no adverse effects.

Alginate-Based Carriers Loaded with Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Leaf Extract: A Promising Strategy for Prolonging 1-Deoxynojirimicyn (DNJ) Systemic Activity for the Nutraceutical Management of Hyperglycemic Conditions.

The iminosugar 1-deoxynojirimicyn (DNJ) contained in mulberry leaves has displayed systemic beneficial effects against disorders of carbohydrate metabolism. Nevertheless, its effect is impaired by the short half-life. Alginate-based carriers were developed to encapsulate a DNJ-rich mulberry extract: Ca-alginate beads, obtained by external gelation, and spray-dried alginate microparticles (SDMs). Mean size and distribution, morphology, drug loading, encapsulation efficiency, experimental yield, and release characteristics were determined for the two formulations. Ca-alginate beads and SDMs exhibited an encapsulation efficiency of about 54% and 98%, respectively, and a DNJ loading in the range of 0.43-0.63 μg/mg. The in vitro release study demonstrated the carriers' capability in controlling the DNJ release in acid and basic conditions (<50% in 5 h), due to electrostatic interactions, which were demonstrated by 1H-NMR relaxometry studies. Thus, alginate-based particles proved to be promising strategies for producing food supplements containing mulberry leaf extracts for the management of hyperglycemic state.

Antibacterial activity of mulberry extracts and purified fractions against oral pathogenic bacteria

ObjectivesThis study aimed to isolate antibacterial compounds active against periodontopathic bacteria from mulberry (Morus alba) leaves. MethodsThe acetone-soluble fraction of mulberry leaves was extracted from the oil layer by oil/water separation. The extract was purified using silica gel open-column chromatography. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the crude extract or purified fractions against Porphyromonas gingivalis was measured at each step. ResultsThe MIC of the crude extract against P. gingivalis was 62.5–125 μg/mL. The fractions showing activity against P. gingivalis were designated Cf K and Cf P. The MICs of Cf K against P. gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella intermedia, and Streptococcus mutans were 6.25 μg/mL, 25 μg/mL, 12.5 μg/mL, and 12.5 μg/mL, respectively. In contrast, the MICs of Cf P against P. gingivalis, F. nucleatum, P. intermedia, and S. mutans were 25.0 μg/mL, >50 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL, and 12.5–25.0 μg/mL, respectively. ConclusionsMulberry leaves contain antibacterial components against periodontopathic bacteria such as P. gingivalis, F. nucleatum, and P. intermedia.

Renoprotective Impact of Dapagliflozin and Mulberry Extracts Toward Fr-STZ Induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats: Biochemical and Molecular Aspects

Renoprotective Impact of Dapagliflozin and Mulberry Extracts Toward Fr-STZ Induced Diabetic Nephropathy in Rats: Biochemical and Molecular Aspects

Studi Pustaka : Ekstraksi dan Potensi Utilitasasi Ekstrak Komponen Bioaktif Tanaman Murbei di Indonesia

Mulberry is one of the plants that grows well in Indonesia, and has been used to support daily economic activities. Mulberries are of interest to researchers as research objects, regarding the bioactivity of mulberry plants. Over the past decade, from 2013 to 2023, research has been carried out regarding mulberries in Indonesia, with the aim of extracting and analyzing the extract substances. Data from 12 local research journals is known regarding the use of mulberry roots, stems and leaves to be extracted and applied for compound identification purposes, a study of the extraction methods used, and the specific purpose of mulberry extract as a preservative, patch formulation material, as well as an antibacterial agent, preservative, and antioxidants. The mulberry extraction procedures used are the maceration method, wave-based extraction (microwave and ultrasonic) and water bath energy. Qualitative analysis testing of mulberry extract substances was carried out to determine the content of alkaloids, tannins and terpenoid compounds. Quantitative analysis testing of mulberry extract substances was carried out to measure antioxidant activity, anthocyanin levels, and the biological activity of mulberry extract substances.

Bioassay-guided discovery and identification of new potent α-glucosidase inhibitors from Morus alba L. and the interaction mechanism

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMorus alba L. (mulberry) is a well-known medicinal species that has been used by herbalist doctors for the treatment of diabetes for a long history, and modern ethnopharmacological studies have demonstrated the ameliorating effects of different mulberry extracts toward diabetes-related symptoms and identified a number of α-glucosidase inhibitors as hypoglycemic ingredients. Aim of the studyThe present study aims to explore new potent α-glucosidase inhibitors from the root bark of M. alba (known as Sang-Bai-Pi in traditional medicine) based on an in vivo antidiabetic evaluation of its extract fractions and further characterize the preliminary mechanism of the new active constituents. Materials and methodsα-Glucosidase inhibitory assay and diabetic mice model were used to locate and evaluate the active fractions from the extract. Diverse separation techniques (e.g. Sephadex LH-20 column chromatograph (CC) and HPLC) and spectroscopic methods (e.g. MS, NMR and ECD) were employed to isolate and structurally characterize the obtained constituents, respectively. Fluorescence quenching, kinetics and molecular docking experiments were conducted to investigate the enzyme inhibitory mechanism of the active compounds. ResultsThe 80% ethanol eluate from the macroporous resin CC exerted good antidiabetic effects in the tested mice. Fifty-two flavonoids including 22 new ones were then separated and identified, and most of them showed strong inhibition against α-glucosidase with their structure-activity relationship being also discussed. The four new most active ingredients were further characterized to be mixed type of α-glucosidase inhibitors, and their binding modes with the enzyme were also explored. ConclusionsOur current work has demonstrated that the root bark of M. alba is an extremely rich source of flavonoids as potent α-glucosidase inhibitors and potential antidiabetic agents, which makes it a promising candidate species to develop new natural remedies for the prevention and treatment of diabetes.

New xanthine oxidase inhibitor from white mulberry (Morus alba L.) – anti-gout prospective study

Abstract In recent years, Morus sp. (mulberry) has acquired a special importance due to its phytochemical composition and its beneficial effects on human health, including antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic and immuno-modulatory effects. The various parts of Morus sp., such as its fruits, leaves, twigs, and roots, are recognized as abundant sources of secondary metabolites, with the leaves containing significant amounts of glycosylated flavonols like quercetin and kaempferol, along with chlorogenic acid as the primary phenolic compound. Overall, it can be considered a multi utility plant and can be exploited as an alternative therapy in various ailments. Xanthine oxidase (XO) is the key enzyme for high serum urate levels which is the main cause of developing gout. Under the urate lowering therapy, allopurinol and febuxostat are the main XO inhibitors used to treat gout. However, mild to severe side effects of these synthetic XO inhibitors lead to finding an effective natural alternative without having any side effects. The present study was designed to find out phytochemical analysis and antigout properties of leaves of white mulberry plant. The phytochemical analysis was performed on quantitative and qualitative basis. The qualitative basis indicated the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, saponins and Anthraquinone. Biochemical regulation of extracts on anti-gout property using XO inhibition study. Microbial XO was isolated from the Bacillus pumilus to study the anti-gout effects of plant extracts qualitatively on xanthine – NBT plate. Additionally, image analysis studies revealed more clear aspects toward the inhibition studies by plant extracts. The XO activity observed varied from 2.89 to 13.80 μM of uric acid formed/min/ml of enzyme used. Ethanolic extract of mulberry leaves (EEML) showed higher XO inhibition than allopurinol. This is associated with its total polyphenol content, which ranged from 81.25 to 103.12 mg GAE/g of dried extract used, as reported in the case of EEML. The present study is the very first report of relating polyphenol content of EEML with the anti-gout property. EEML is a potential candidate for anti-gout property due to the presence of higher amounts of total polyphenol content and B. pumilus is the best source to extract microbial XO.

Active and intelligent collagen films containing laccase-catalyzed mulberry extract and pickering emulsion for fish preservation and freshness indicator

Given the growing emphasis on food safety, the need for functionalized packaging is becoming more prominent. Cinnamon essential oil (CEO)-based Pickering emulsions can impart excellent anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant activities to collagen films through slow-release actives, but the resultant films exhibit reduced water resistance and mechanical properties that may limit their application. In this study, oxidized mulberry extract (OME) was prepared by laccase oxidation and used as an enhancer to improve the physicochemical properties of CEO-based Pickering emulsion collagen films. The incorporation of OME enhanced the tensile strength (79.18–106.35 MPa) and water resistance (water vapor permeability, 2.82–2.30 × 10−11 (g·m−1·s−1·Pa−1); water sorption, 524.57%–201.28%) of the films. The films also exhibited superior light-blocking, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities as well as pH sensitivity. When the COL-PE/OME 4 film was used for fish preservation, a four-day extension of shelf life was observed and the film showed a visible color change (ΔE > 5) from red (day 0) to blackish-green (day 12) reflecting the degree of freshness of the stored fish. These findings indicate the potential of the functionalized collagen films for fish preservation and indicators of freshness.