Flavonoid Constituents Research Articles

The Influence of Sodium Humate on the Biosynthesis and Contents of Flavonoid Constituents in Lemons

Sodium humate (SH) is the sodium salt of humic acid. Our previous research has demonstrated that SH has the ability to enhance the levels of total flavonoids in various parts of lemons, including the leaves, peels, pulps, and seeds, thereby improving the quality of lemons. In the current study, the regulation effect of SH on the biosynthesis and content of lemon flavonoid compounds was examined using transcriptome sequencing technology and flavonoid metabolomic analysis. Following SH treatment, the transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed 320 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between samples treated with SH and control (CK) samples, some of which were associated with the phenylalanine pathway by KEGG annotation analysis. The levels of seven flavonoid compounds identified in lemon peels were observed to increase, and eriocitrin and isoorientin were identified as differential metabolites (DMs, VIP > 1) using OPLS-DA analysis. The integrated analysis of transcriptomics and flavonoid metabolomics indicates that SH treatment induces alterations in gene expression and metabolite levels related to flavonoid synthesis. Specifically, SH influences flavonoid biosynthesis by modulating the activity of key enzymes in the phenylalanine pathway, including HCT (O-hydroxycinnamoyltransferase) and F5H (ferulate-5-hydroxylase).

Effects of Laurus extract against cadmium-induced neurotoxicity in rats

Cadmium (Cd) is a hazardous heavy metal with widespread environmental presence, posing significant threats to human and animal health. This study investigates the neurotoxic effects of Cd exposure and explores the therapeutic efficacy of Laurus nobilis L. in counteracting these adverse effects. Cd exposure induces oxidative stress and neurotoxicity, leading to neuronal damage and histopathological alterations. Laurus, known for its antioxidant properties, is assessed for its potential in mitigating Cd-induced neurotoxicity through in vitro antioxidant assays, GC–MS analysis, HPLC profiling, and experimental animal models. Results demonstrate that Laurus ethanolic extract exhibits significant antioxidant activity, attributed to its phenolic and flavonoid constituents. GC–MS analysis reveals various bioactive compounds in the extract, including Hexadecanoic acid methyl ester and (Z)-13-Docosenamide, which posses neuroprotective properties. HPLC analysis identifies phenolic compounds such as ellagic acid and flavonoids like rutin and kaempferol in the extract. In vivo studies in rats exposed to Cd demonstrate that Laurus extract administration mitigates Cd-induced alterations in body and brain weight, hematological parameters, liver and kidney function, oxidative stress markers, and acetylcholinesterase (AchE) activity. Histopathological examination confirms the protective effects of Laurus against Cd-induced neuronal damage. The SOD model, validated with high resolution (2.05 Å) and strong R values (work: 0.192, free: 0.236, observed: 0.194), shows strong structural stability (C-score: 0.30). Docking studies reveal high binding affinities of kaempferol (−8.1 kcal/mol) and rutin (−8.7 kcal/mol) with SOD with kaempferol demonstrating superior solubility, lipophilicity, and drug-likenessSimulation analysis confirms the protein’s flexibility and adaptability, highlighting its therapeutic potential, especially with kaempferol. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of Laurus. as a natural remedy for Cd-induced neurotoxicity, highlighting its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties.

Identification of Bioactive and Anticancer Properties of Bidens Pilosa in-vitro Evidence.

Bidens pilosa and Trianthema portulacastrum are noteworthy weeds with a series of bioactive flavonoid constituents, hence, they can be utilized as potential health supplements and readily available sources of natural antioxidants, as well as effective constituents in medicinal applications. The current study aims to assess the anti-proliferative activity of B. pilosa and T. portulacastrum extracts using the HepG2 cell line. Methods The prepared extracts were evaluated for their cytotoxic influence and their potential CC50 in HepG2 cell lines and normal hepatocytes using the MTT assay. Using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), the relative gene expression of Raf-1, MEK-1, LC3B, and Atg12 was quantified in treated cells to detect the expression levels of cell proliferation factors and autophagy-related genes. The quantification analysis of the released interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) and interleukin-1alpha (IL-1α) was also done using an ELISA assay. The activities of B. pilosa extract showed an anti-proliferative influence on HepG2 cell lines upon treatment as compared to normal cells. It was assessed for cytotoxicity using molecular studies against both Raf-1 and MEK-1 as proposed anticancer mechanisms and showed promising inhibitory activity against Raf-1 and MEK-1 gene expression. Likewise, the reduction of autophagy-related genes, Atg12 and LC3B, in HepG2 cells pre-treated with B. pilosa extract, further confirmed its influence in the induction of programmed cell death (PCD). The ELISA assay revealed a substantial elevation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1α and IL-1β upon treatment. This study found that B. pilosa extract, without any detectable cytotoxic effects, had potential inhibitory activities against both Raf-1 and MEK-1 gene expression, and a significant reduction in autophagic machinery upon treatment.<br /><br />.

Flavonoid, Fatty Acid, and Phenolic Constituents from the Whole Plants of Smilax sieboldii

Flavonoid, Fatty Acid, and Phenolic Constituents from the Whole Plants of Smilax sieboldii

Chemical Constituents, Anti-Tumor Mechanisms, and Clinical Application: A Comprehensive Review on Scutellaria barbata.

With the increasing global incidence and mortality rates of cancer, the development of novel anti-tumor drugs has become particularly urgent. Scutellaria barbata D. Don, a perennial herb belonging to the genus Scutellaria in the family Lamiaceae, has aroused extensive attention for its medicinal value in recent years. This article presents an exhaustive review of the flavonoid, diterpene, and other chemical constituents harbored within Scutellaria barbata, delving into the intricate mechanisms by which these compounds orchestrate their anti-tumor effects via diverse biological pathways. Remarkably, these compounds distinguish themselves through their capability to regulate cellular signaling, inhibit cancer cell proliferation, trigger apoptosis, disrupt angiogenesis, and bolster immune responses. These anti-tumor effects are achieved through strategic modulation of pivotal signaling cascades, particularly the PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK, and NFκB pathways. In addition, this article also summarizes the clinical applications of Scutellaria barbata in tumor treatment, especially its potential in alleviating the side effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy and improving patients' quality of life. In conclusion, this review comprehensively summarizes and analyzes the chemical constituents, anti-tumor mechanisms, and clinical applications of Scutellaria barbata, with the aim of systematically reviewing the existing research results and exploring potential future research directions.

Molecular and Phytochemical Characteristics of Flower Color and Scent Compounds in Dog Rose (Rosa canina L.).

This study delves into the chemical and genetic determinants of petal color and fragrance in Rosa canina L., a wild rose species prized for its pharmacological and cosmetic uses. Comparative analysis of white and dark pink R. canina flowers revealed that the former harbors significantly higher levels of total phenolics (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC), while the latter is distinguished by elevated total anthocyanins (TAC). Essential oils in the petals were predominantly composed of aliphatic hydrocarbons, with phenolic content chiefly constituted by flavonols and anthocyanins. Notably, gene expression analysis showed an upregulation in most genes associated with petal color and scent biosynthesis in white buds compared to dark pink open flowers. However, anthocyanin synthase (ANS) and its regulatory gene RhMYB1 exhibited comparable expression levels across both flower hues. LC-MS profiling identified Rutin, kaempferol, quercetin, and their derivatives as key flavonoid constituents, alongside cyanidin and delphinidin as the primary anthocyanin compounds. The findings suggest a potential feedback inhibition of anthocyanin biosynthesis in white flowers. These insights pave the way for the targeted enhancement of R. canina floral traits through metabolic and genetic engineering strategies.

Immunometabolic risks in calves during the period of changing the type of feeding and the possibility of their pharmacological adjustment

Most diseases of young animals are initiated by pathologies of non-contagious etiology, such as disorders of degenerative processes, the imbalance of metabolism in the occurrence of which the leading role belongs to negative environmental factors. The purpose of our work was to study the state of the immune system and metabolism in calves during the period of changes in the type of feeding and the possibility of pharmacological correction of their disorders. An experiment was conducted on a dairy farm located in the Pscov’s region, the object of which was clinically healthy heifers. To conduct the experiment, using the method of selecting analogues, two groups of clinically healthy calves were formed at the age of 52 days: № 1 (control, n = 60) animals received feed in accordance with the technology, № 2 (n = 62) - in addition to basic diets, calves received three courses of 7 days with an interval of 5 days of sorption-metabolic premix at a dose of 0.20 g/kg per day. This feed additive has the properties of an enterosorbent, hepatoprotective and ruminoprotective agent, and its constituent flavonoids and humic acid affect the immune system. During the period of the experiment, i.e., from 53 to 86 days of life, calves undergo metabolic restructuring, which puts a functional load on all body systems with a corresponding risk of disruption of their functions. In particular, there is a risk of biochemical deficiency syndrome in the rumen, toxic liver dystrophy and anemia, the initiating factor of which, as our research has shown, is endogenous toxins, including proinflammatory interleukins. The administration of the phytopos-rum premix eliminated the accumulation of endotoxins and has a hepatoprotective effect, which reduces the risks of metabolic disorders, liver and bone marrow functions and digestive processes in the rumen, and increases the metabolic and immunological uniformity of the livestock.

Elevated PINK1/Parkin-Dependent Mitophagy and Boosted Mitochondrial Function Mediate Protection of HepG2 Cells from Excess Palmitic Acid by Hesperetin.

Deregulation of mitochondrial functions in hepatocytes contributes to many liver diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Lately, it was referred to as MAFLD (metabolism-associated fatty liver disease). Hesperetin (Hst), a bioactive flavonoid constituent of citrus fruit, has been proven to attenuate NAFLD. However, a potential connection between its preventive activities and the modulation of mitochondrial functions remains unclear. Here, our results showed that Hst alleviates palmitic acid (PA)-triggered NLRP3 inflammasome activation and cell death by inhibition of mitochondrial impairment in HepG2 cells. Hst reinstates fatty acid oxidation (FAO) rates measured by seahorse extracellular flux analyzer and intracellular acetyl-CoA levels as well as intracellular tricarboxylic acid cycle metabolites levels including NADH and FADH2 reduced by PA exposure. In addition, Hst protects HepG2 cells against PA-induced abnormal energetic profile, ATP generation reduction, overproduction of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, and collapsed mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, Hst improves the protein expression involved in PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy. Our results demonstrate that it restores PA-impaired mitochondrial function and sustains cellular homeostasis due to the elevation of PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy and the subsequent disposal of dysfunctional mitochondria. These results provide therapeutic potential for Hst utilization as an effective intervention against fatty liver disease.

Rapid determination of four flavonoids from hawthorn leaves in plasma by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry and study on its pharmacokinetics

AbstractIn this study, a rapid and sensitive ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method was established for the simultaneous determination of four Vitexin‐4“‐O‐glucoside (VOG), Vitexin‐2”‐O‐rhamnoside (VOR), vitexin (VIT), and hyperoside (HP) in plasma, which are representative flavonoids constituents of hawthorn leaves. The four components were separated by CORTECS UPLC C18 column (100 × 3.0 mm, 1.6 µm), using acetonitrile‐water containing 0.02% formic acid and 2 mmol/L ammonium formate as the mobile phase, the gradient elution flow rate was 0.30 mL/min. The analyte was quantified using an electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The analytes and baicalin internal standard were performed at m/z 593.2/413.2 for VOG, m/z 577.2/413.1 for VOR, m/z 431.1/310.9 for VIT, m/z 463.2/300 for HP and m/z 445.1/269 for internal standard. Among the four flavonoids, the correlation coefficient of the standard curve of each component is between 0.9939 and 0.9987. After oral administration of hawthorn leaf extract, VOG and VOR showed similar pharmacokinetic characteristics; VIT was eliminated in the body more slowly than the other three flavonoids and distributed more in the tissues; HP can be quickly absorbed in the blood. The developed analytical method has high sensitivity, precision, and accuracy with no interference from plasma components and has been successfully used in pharmacokinetic studies.

Anthraquinone, Lignan, and Flavonoid Constituents from the Leaves of Sageretia thea

Anthraquinone, Lignan, and Flavonoid Constituents from the Leaves of Sageretia thea

Bioactive Compounds from Vicia sativa L. and Vicia monantha Retz. with Unveiling Antiviral Potentials in Newly Green Synthesized CdO Nanoparticles.

in the current study, a comparative phytochemical analysis was carried out to explore the phenolic and flavonoid contents in the aerial parts of Vicia sativa L and Vicia monantha Retz growing in cultivated, reclaimed, and desert habitats. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to detect Vicia methanolic extracts' individual phenolic and flavonoid constituents. The first-time synthesis of cadmium oxide nanoparticles (CdO NPs) using the aqueous extract of V. monantha has been developed using a green approach. Also, the cytotoxicity of V. monantha extract and CdO NPs was examined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay for unveiling them as anti-HAV and anti-AdV. Our results indicated that in the case of desert habitat, the contents of total phenolics (76.37 mg/g) and total flavonoids (65.23 mg/g) of V. monantha were higher than those of V. sativa (67.35 mg/g and 47.34 mg/g, respectively) and the contents of these secondary metabolites were even increased in V. monantha collected from reclaimed land (phenolics: 119.77 mg/g, flavonoids: 88.61 mg/g). Also, V. monantha surpassed V. sativa in the contents of some individual HPLC constituents, and hence, V. monantha was used to synthesize the green CdO NPs and subsequent antiviral tests. The average size of CdO NPs was determined to be 24.28 nm, and the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of CdO NPs clearly showed their spherical form and varying particle sizes, with different diameters in the range of 19-29 nm. MTT assay was positive to the exposure of CdO NPs in the normal cell line, proposing that CdO NPs can reduce cell viability. V. monantha extract showed promising antiviral activity against Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and Adenovirus (AdV) with SI of 16.40 and 10.54. On the other hand, CdONPs had poor antiviral activity against HAV with an SI of 4.74 and moderate antiviral activity against AdV with an SI of 10.54. V. monantha is now considered a new, valuable natural resource for phenolics and flavonoids, especially when grown in reclaimed soil. The green CdO NPs based on V. monantha extract showed a promising antiviral effect against HAV and AdV.

Identification of active compounds in Vernonia anthelmintica (L.) willd by targeted metabolome MRM and kaempferol promotes HaCaT cell proliferation and reduces oxidative stress.

Introduction: Vernonia anthelmintica (L.) Willd. is a traditional treatment for vitiligo in Xinjiang. However, its therapeutic mechanism remains unclear owing to its complex composition and limited research on its chemical profile. Methods: We employed a targeted metabolome approach, combining selective reaction monitoring/multiple response monitoring (SRM/MRM) with high-performance liquid chromatography and MRM mass spectrometry to quantitatively analyze the flavonoid constituents of Vernonia anthelmintica. We also used network pharmacology and molecular docking to identify potential vitiligo-linked compounds and targets of V. anthelmintica seeds. Additionally, we assessed HaCaT cell proliferation by AAPH-induced, alongside changes in SOD activity and MDA content, following treatment with V. anthelmintica components. Finally, flow cytometry was used to detect apoptosis and ROS levels. Results and Discussion: We identified 36 flavonoid compounds in V. anthelmintica seeds, with 14 compounds exhibiting druggability. AKT1, VEGFA, ESR1, PTGS2, and IL2 have been identified as key therapeutic target genes, with PI3K/AKT signaling being an important pathway. Notably, kaempferol, one of the identified compounds, exhibited high expression in network pharmacology analysis. Kaempferol exhibited a strong binding affinity to important targets. Further, kaempferol enhanced HaCaT cell viability, inhibited apoptosis, reduced MDA levels, suppressed ROS activity, and upregulated SOD activity, increase the expression of cellular antioxidant genes, including HO-1, GCLC, GCLM, Nrf2, NQO1 and Keap1, providing significant protection against oxidative stress damage in vitro. Here, we present the first comprehensive study integrating SRM/MRM approaches and network analysis to identify active flavonoid compounds within V. anthelmintica (L.) Willd. Moreover, we revealed that its active ingredient, kaempferol, offers protection against AAPH-induced damage in keratinocytes, highlighting its potential as a clinical resource.

Evaluation on the Potential for Hepatotoxic Components from Herba Epimedii to Induce Apoptosis in HepG2 Cells and the Analysis of the Influence of Metabolism in Liver Microsomes.

The potential hepatotoxicity of Herba Epimedii is a focal point in traditional Chinese medicine security applications. As determined in our previous study, the flavonoid constituents of Herba Epimedii, sagittatoside A, icariside I, baohuoside I and icaritin, are related to the hepatotoxicity of this herb. However, the hepatotoxic mechanism of these components needs to be clarified further, and whether these components can maintain their injury action following liver metabolism needs to be confirmed. Herein, the effects of sagittatoside A, icariside I, baohuoside I and icaritin on the apoptosis of HepG2 cells and the expression of key proteins, including Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9, were evaluated. Moreover, with liver microsome incubation, the influences of metabolism on the apoptotic activities of these components were investigated. Then, by HPLC-MS/MS analyses, the in vitro metabolic stability of these components was determined after incubation with different kinds of liver microsomes to explain the reason for the influence. The results suggested that sagittatoside A, baohuoside I and icaritin could induce apoptosis, which is likely to be closely related to the induction of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. After metabolic incubation, the sagittatoside A and icaritin metabolism mixture could still induce apoptosis due to less metabolic elimination, while the icariside I and baohuoside I metabolism mixtures respectively got and lost the ability to induce apoptosis, probably due to quick metabolism and metabolic transformation. The findings of this study may provide important references to explore the material basis and mechanism of the hepatotoxicity of Herba Epimedii.

Anti-osteoporosis activity of casticin in ovariectomized rats.

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMPO) is the most familiar type of osteoporosis, a silent bone disease. Casticin, a natural flavonoid constituent, improves osteoporosis in animal model. Nevertheless, the potential mechanism remains to be further explored. A model of PMPO was established in rats treated with ovariectomy (OVX) and RAW 264.7 cells induced with receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL). The effect and potential mechanism of casticin on PMPO were addressed by pathological staining, measurement of bone mineral density (BMD), three-point bending test, serum biochemical detection, filamentous-actin (F-actin) ring staining, TRAcP staining, reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot and examination of oxidative stress indicators. The casticin treatment increased the femoral trabecular area, bone maturity, BMD, elastic modulus, maximum load, the level of calcium and estrogen with the reduced concentrations of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in OVX rats. An enhancement in the F-actin ring formation, TRAcP staining and the relative mRNA expression of NFATc1 and TRAP was observed in RANKL-induced RAW 264.7 cells, which was declined by the treatment of casticin. Moreover, the casticin treatment reversed the reduced the relative protein expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 and the concentrations of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and the increased content of malondialdehyde both in vivo and in vitro. Casticin improved bone density, bone biomechanics, the level of calcium and estrogen, the release of pro-inflammatory factor and oxidative stress to alleviate osteoporosis, which was associated with the upregulation of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Antinociceptive Effect of Dillenia indica (Linn.) Mediated by Opioid and Cannabinoid Systems: Pharmacological and Chemical Studies.

Dillenia indica (Linn.) has been reported by several biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-hyperglycemic, antiproliferative, antimutagenic, anticholinesterase, and antimicrobial. In Brazilian traditional medicine, the fruits of D. indica have been used to treat general topical pain and inflammation, but with no scientific validation. Thus, aiming to study its chemical constitution and antinociceptive properties, the crude extract (CE) and fractions obtained from the fruits of D. indica were submitted to an in vivo pharmacological evaluation and a dereplication study by LC-MS/MS analysis, assisted by the Global Natural Product Social Molecular Networking (GNPS). The oral antinociceptive activity of the fruits of D. indica and the possible participation of the opioid and cannabinoid systems were demonstrated in the formalin-induced nociception model. The chemical dereplication study led us to identify several known chemical constituents, including flavonoids, such as caffeoylmalic acid, naringenin, quercetin, and kaempferol. According to literature data, our results are compatible with significant antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, the flavonoid constituents of the fruits of D. indica are probably responsible for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antinociceptive effects mediated by both opioid and cannabinoid systems, confirming its folk use in the treatment and relief of pain.

Antihistaminic, Antiarthritic, and Antiobesity Activities of Yellow Horn Poppy Natural Products

Background: Yellow horn poppy ( Glaucium flavum, syn. Chelidonium flavum) in the family Papaveraceae, is growing in many geographical areas; it is mostly native to Northern Africa, Western Asia, and Europe. The plant is well known for its different types of alkaloids, including aporphines, protopines, and phenolic compounds. In Eastern Europe, the HCl and HBr salts of glaucine (the common active constituent in G. flavum) have been approved as cough suppressants, in addition to several therapeutic applications in traditional medicine. The natural products of G. flavum varied according to the geographical habitat, the stage of maturity, and the selected plant organ. Materials and Methods: For the first time, the extraction and isolation of natural products (alkaloids and flavonoids) from dried aerial parts of the Libyan population of yellow horn poppy and testing their biological effects, which include antihistaminic, antiarthritic, and antiobesity effects. Results: Alkaloids (glaucine and isoboldine) and flavonoid constituents (quercetin-7- O-rutinoside and rutin) have been isolated, while the biological activity results showed that quercetin-7- O-rutinoside and rutin showed half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) (µg) = 29.7 and 46.6, 26.2 and 61.3, and 58.8 and 50.1 for antihistaminic, antiarthritic, and antiobesity, respectively, compared with those of glaucine and isoboldine effects, IC50 = 77.4 and 159.3, 61.7 and 118.7, and 237.8 and 157.6, respectively. Conclusion: According to the obtained results, the antihistaminic, antiarthritic, and antiobesity effects of the flavonoid compounds were stronger than those of the alkaloidal constituents of yellow horn poppy.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Paronychia Argentea (Algerian Tea)

In the intricate dance of health and imbalance, oxidative stress and inflammation emerge as central players, contributing to a spectrum of physiological disorders. This review delves into the therapeutic potential of Paronychia argentea (aka Algerian Tea), a perennial plant deeply rooted in traditional medicine, aiming to unravel its antioxidant and antiinflammatory attributes, along with exploring its polyphenolic and flavonoid constituents. Studies consistently affirm its efficacy in mitigating inflammation, combating free radicals, and providing nephroprotective and antimicrobial benefits. The multifaceted bioactive compounds within the plant position it as a promising candidate for pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and personal care products.International Journal of Human and Health Sciences Vol. 08 No. 01 Jan’24 Page: 9-14

Potential anticancer agents of Curcuma aeruginosa-based kombucha: In vitro and in silico study

BackgroundThe kombucha is an original drink from China that is traditionally produced from fermentation that rich in polyphenol and act as antioxidants and anticancer. In the times, kombucha is widely combined with several medicinal plants, one of which is Curcuma aeruginosa, an herbal plant used as medicine because it has chemical constituents of saponins, triterpenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Kombucha-based Curcuma aeruginosa is believed to have role as an antioxidant and anticancer. Research objectivesto determine antioxidant and anticancer activities of kombucha-based C. aeruginosa through in vitro and in silico study. Methodsproduction of kombucha-based C. aeruginosa with variation of C. aeruginosa extract concentration (2, 4, 6 %) and variation of time fermentation of kombucha production (6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 days). Then antioxidant activity analysis was carried out with the DPPH assay. The bioactive compounds contained in kombucha-based C. aeruginosa was screened using LCHRMS (Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mas Spectrometry). Anticancer activity was predicted using in silico study such as PASS Online and molecular docking. ResultsThe highest antioxidant activity was showed by 6 % of C. aeruginosa and 14 days fermentation of kombucha (IC50 = 13.17). There were 15 bioactive compounds contained in kombucha-based C. aeruginosa and 4 of them with anticancer activity, such as 2-(8-Hydroxy-4a,8-dimethyldecahhydro-2-naphthalenyl)acrylic acid, 2-[(2-Chlorobenzyl)sulfanyl]-4,6-dimethylnicotinonitrile, 3,5-Di‑tert‑butyl‑4-hydroxybenzoic acid, and Zedoarondiol. 2-[(2-Chlorobenzyl)sulfanyl]-4,6-dimethylnicotinonitrile showed the most potential anticancer compound with the strongest interaction to inhibit ERa and PR protein.

Exploring antifungal potential: The flavonoid composition of Machaerium villosum extracts against Cryptococcus neoformans

The escalating prevalence of fungal infections, coupled with the limitations and adverse effects associated with existing antifungal drugs, necessitates the exploration of alternative therapeutic approaches. The objective of this study was, therefore, to conduct a chemical analysis and assess the biological potential of the hydroethanolic extract obtained from the leaves of Machaerium villosum. Thus, this study investigates the extract from this plant, which belongs to the Fabaceae family, known for its rich flavonoid content. Employing UHPLC-ESI-IT-MS/MS, the extract was characterized, revealing the presence of various flavonoids, including glycosylated derivatives of kaempferol and quercetin, along with organic acids and fatty acid derivatives. The total flavonoid content was quantified at 45.7 mg/g. Subsequent antifungal evaluation unveiled significant activity against Cryptococcus neoformans, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 16 μg/ml and fungicidal action at 256 μg/ml. The observed efficacy against C. neoformans aligns with the documented antifungal properties of flavonoids, which disrupt membrane integrity and impede crucial cellular processes. The findings suggest that M. villosum extract, particularly its flavonoid constituents, holds promise as a potential source for developing new antifungal therapies.

The Protective Activity of Withania somnifera Against Mercuric Chloride (HgCl2)-Induced Renal Toxicity in Male Rats.

The purpose of this study was to test the protective effect of Withania somnifera (WS) against the harmful effects of mercuric chloride (HgCl2)-induced kidney failure at the histological, biochemical, and immune levels in Wistar rats. The study assessed the biochemical and immunological changes in five groups (n = 6): Group 1 (G1) was the negative control, and the other rats received a single subcutaneous dose of HgCl2 (2.5 mg/kg in 0.5 mL of 0.9% saline solution) and randomly divided into 4 groups. Group 2 (G2) was the positive control and left without treatment. Groups 3, 4, and 5 (G3, G4, and G5) were treated with different doses of WS root powder for 30 days. The HgCl2-positive group showed significant signs of renal toxicity as reflected by increased levels of kidney function parameters (blood urea nitrogen, urea, and creatinine), inflammatory biomarkers, immunological indices (SDF-1, IL-6, NGAL, and KIM-1), and oxidative stress (SOD, TAC, CAT, GSH, and MDA). The positive group rats also showed drastic pathological changes in renal tissues. Different doses of WS treatment significantly reduced the levels of all biochemical markers and decreased pathological damage to the kidney tissues. The antioxidant, phenolic, and flavonoid constituents of WS root powder helped protect rats' kidneys against HgCl2-induced kidney toxicity in male rats.