Free Radical Scavenging Activity Research Articles

Anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-ulcer activities of aqueous lyophilizate of Markhamia lutea (Bignoniaceae)

Abstract Objectives This work was carried out with a view to determining the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties of the aqueous lyophilized extract of Markhamia lutea. Methods In vitro proteinases inhibition, albumin denaturation, hemolysis of red blood cells by heat, inhibition of the proton pump H+/K+ATPase, FRAP (Ferric reducing antioxidant power) and DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) assays were performed. In vivo, cold water immersion-induced ulceration and methylene blue-induced ulceration was used to determine the anti-ulcer properties of the lyophilizate (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg). Results In vitro, the lyophilizate (400 μg/mL) significantly inhibited protein denaturation (66.65 %), hemolysis of red blood cells (56.54 %), proteinase activity (69.22 %); then the IC50 was 26.31 μg/mL on proton pump activity. It has also developed a strong ferric reducing antioxidant power (EC50=52.96 mmol FeSO4/g) as well as free radicals scavenging activity (EC50=22.38 μg/mL). In vivo, the aqueous lyophilizate (200 and 300 mg/kg) protected the gastric mucosa (70.68 and 79.00 % protection respectively) and reduced (p<0.05) acetylcholine, calcium and corticosterone concentrations. A decrease in malondialdehyde level, an increased glutathione level and an increased in catalase and SOD activities were recorded. In the methylene blue test, it significantly increased gastric fluid pH, while reducing gastric volume and improving hematological parameters in ulcer animals. In addition, the histological sections show that the aqueous lyophilizate of M. lutea protected the gastric mucosa from the deleterious effects of stress. Conclusions The aqueous lyophilizate of M. lutea has anti-ulcer properties thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-secretory properties.

Oregano and thyme by-products of olive oil aromatization process with microwave assisted extraction as a rich source of bio-active constituents

IntroductionProcessing of Medicinal Aromatic Plants (MAPs) results in the production of a significant amount of by-products, which are not commercially exploitable. Towards this direction, we studied extensively the by-products of oregano and thyme, remaining after the aromatization of olive oils with microwave assisted extraction (MAE). The purpose of the study was the exploitation of the “wastes” of these two economically significant herbs of Greece, for the potential development of innovative bioactive products.MethodsHence, superior and inferior quality plant material from Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum and Thymus vulgaris, were extracted with extra virgin olive oil using MAE. For the evaluation of raw plant material, beside the characterization of the essential oils (EOs), the hydroalcoholic extracts of superior and inferior plant material were afforded by ultrasound assistant extraction (UAE). In addition, the remaining plant material after the flavoring of olive oil by MAE, was extracted with c-Hex, MeOH, H2O:MeOH using UAE. All the extracts were evaluated for their DPPH free radical scavenging activity and total phenolic content (TPC) as well as their chemical profile was investigated by HPTLC. In parallel, the EOs, the olive oils and the c-Hex extracts were analyzed by GC–MS and Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction (HS-SPME)-GC–MS.Results and DiscussionThe results showed that the composition of the EOs and the volatile fraction of the olive oil extracts were similar for the superior quality material whereas for the inferior the composition of the volatile fraction of olive oil extracts was not analogous to the respective EOs. GC–MS analyses of oregano and thyme by-products revealed the presence of carvacrol, thymol, γ-terpinene and p-cymene among the major constituents. Moreover, the hydroalcoholic extracts obtained from the plant material remaining after olive oil flavoring with MAE showed similar phenolic content and scavenging activity with the hydroalcoholic extracts of the corresponding raw plant materials underlying their potent use in the preparation of high-added value products such as nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals as well as enriched animal nutrition products.

Enhancing the Extraction of Phenolic Antioxidants from Amazonian Assai (Euterpe oleracea Martius) Fruit Waste through Response Surface Methodology Optimization

Assai (Euterpe oleracea Martius) is a superfruit widely consumed in several countries, mainly produced in the Amazon region. The significant growth of the market for this fruit has raised environmental concerns regarding the disposal of production waste, especially the seeds that are not utilized and represent approximately 80% of the fruit. In the present study, strategies were developed for transforming these seed wastes into new products, using green solvents for extraction under conditions conducive to technology transfer and with feasible quality control through simple bench techniques, which represents an ideal approach for establishing a truly sustainable process. A significant interaction between solvent and extraction method was observed, impacting both yields and total phenols. Phenolic compounds are substances known for their health benefits, functioning as antioxidants and consequently aiding in disease prevention. The phenolic content observed in the extractions increased from 22.68% to 44.74% under optimal conditions during extraction via hot maceration (50 °C) in 100% ethanol for 2 h, which also enhanced yield and increased antioxidant capacity. The extracts displayed remarkable free radical scavenging activities (IC50 = 6.54 μg/mL in ABTS and IC50 = 14.71 μg/mL in DPPH), approaching the Trolox and quercetin standards, respectively. The optimized method paved the way for the industrial-scale utilization of the residues of this valuable Amazonian fruit.

Chemical Composition and In Vitro and In Silico Biological Activities of Myrciaria tenella (DC.) O.Berg (Myrtaceae) Essential Oil from Brazil

Myrciariatenella O.Berg, a native plant species of Brazil, exhibits pharmacological applications, including antitumor activity. In this study, we isolated the essential oil (EO) of M. tenella and identified its phytochemical profile. In addition, we determined the in vitro and in silico cytotoxic activities of EO in nontumor and tumor cell lines (gingival fibroblasts and oral squamous cell carcinoma, respectively) and its free radical scavenging activity (i.e., antioxidant activity) using ABTS and DPPH assays. The EO of M. tenella primarily constitutes hydrocarbons and oxygenated sesquiterpenes, with (E)-caryophyllene (33.95%), δ-cadinene (7.4%), caryophyllene oxide (4.74%), and viridiflorene (4.49%) as its four major components. EO effectively suppressed the cell viability of CAL-27 tumor cells to below 70% at concentrations of 125 and 250 μg/mL and exhibited a free radical inhibition potential of 75.63 ± 0.41% and 28.46 ± 0.36%, respectively, in the DPPH and ABTS assays. This chemical and biological potential may be attributed to the major compounds present in EO, as well as the molecular coupling simulations conducted, which revealed the anticancer mechanism of EO in the sesquiterpenes (E)-caryophyllene, δ-cadinene, caryophyllene oxide, and viridiflorene.

Free radical scavenging, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and lipase inhibitory activities of metabolites from strawberry kombucha: Molecular docking and in vitro studies

Obesity, a global issue, is linked to cardiometabolic syndrome. Dietary modification is one of the recommended modes for managing cardiometabolic syndrome. Strawberries, a functional food, and kombucha, a fermented tea beverage, have gained attention for their health benefits. This study investigated the bioactive components of strawberry kombucha drink (SKD) and their effects on antioxidant activities and improving metabolic disorder markers. An in vitro experiment was performed to determine the effect of SKD on enzymatic parameters: lipase, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase activities. In addition, antioxidant activity using the DPPH method and quantification of the radical scavenging activity were also measured. Furthermore, untargeted metabolomic profiling of SKD and molecular docking simulation were conducted. The findings suggest that SKD, rich in secondary metabolites, can inhibit lipase, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase activities. It demonstrated in vitro anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant properties, potentially reducing metabolic and inflammatory issues. Thus, SKD could be a therapeutic beverage to alter metabolic issues associated with obesity. Nevertheless, further preclinical study is warranted to determine SKD’s potential in vivo.

Production and Optimisation of Fermented Pumpkin-Based Mature Coconut Water Kefir Beverage Using Response Surface Methodology

Fermentation of pumpkin puree and mature coconut water using water kefir grains is a potential method for producing a novel functional non-dairy-based probiotic drink. In the present study, response surface methodology based on Box–Behnken design (RSM-BBD) was used to optimise fermentation temperature and substrates’ concentrations. The optimised fermentation temperature, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar concentrations of pumpkin-based mature coconut water kefir beverage (PWKC) were 27 °C, 20%, and 10% w/v, respectively. The optimised PWKC (PWKCopt) obtained an overall acceptability (OA) score of 4.03, with a desirable Lactobacillus count (6.41 Log CFU/mL), 0.68% v/v lactic acid content, 31% of water kefir grains’ biomass growth rate, and fermentation time (to reach pH 4.5) of 4.5 h. The optimized beverage, PWKCopt, contained 3.26% proteins, 2.75% dietary fibre, 2186.33 mg/L of potassium, 180.67 mg/L phosphorus, and 137.33 mg/L calcium and had a total phenolic content of 89.93 mg GAE/100 mL, flavonoid content of 49.94 mg QE/100 mL, and carotenoid content of 33.24 mg/100 mL, with antioxidant activity (FRAP: 169.17 mM Fe(II)/100 mL, IC50 value of DPPH free radicals scavenging activity: 27.17 mg/mL). Water kefir microorganisms in PWKCopt remained stable for at least 56 days at 4 °C. Therefore, PWKCopt might potentially serve as a value-added product, offering a basis for sustainable development within both the coconut and pumpkin industries.

Microwave‐Assisted Preparation of an Acidic Deep Eutectic Solvent: Green Analysis, Characterization and Application

AbstractMicrowave irradiation was postulated to reduce time and energy for deep eutectic solvent (DES) production which is in line with the principle of green chemistry. In this study, the choline chloride (ChCl)‐malic acid (MA) DES was prepared using microwave‐assisted (DES‐Mic) and conventional (DES‐Con) approaches. Microwave was a relatively greener approach as it was rapid (5 min) and consumed 92.8 % energy less than DES‐Con. Moreover, DES‐Mic and DES‐Con exhibited similar physicochemical profiles (pH, solubility, density) and rheological properties. Structural profiling through FTIR analysis suggested hydrogen bond formation between the functional groups of ChCl and MA. The FTIR spectra also did not show structural differences in the DES synthesized using different methods. DES‐Mic and DES‐Con exhibited superior 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (80.8±0.1 and 83.2±0.3 %, respectively) free radical scavenging activities than ChCl (15.6±0.8 %), MA (20.0±1.4 %) and ChCl:MA aqueous mixture without subjected to DES synthesis conditions (ChCl:MAaq; 23.3±0.8 %). Both DES were also proven as more efficient solvents for the extraction of polysaccharides from ramie leaf, as they recorded higher yields (21.4±1.9 and 22.2±1.0 %, respectively) than equimolar of MA (17.7±2.6 %) and ChCl (6.4±0.2 %). Overall, microwave was proven as a more sustainable approach for DES preparation compared to conventional method, which could be further improvised for industrial applications.

Extraction and In Vitro Skincare Effect Assessment of Polysaccharides Extract from the Roots of Abelmoschus manihot (L.).

Obtaining high-added value compounds from agricultural waste receives increasing attention, as it can both improve resource utilization efficiency and reduce waste generation. In this study, polysaccharides are extracted from the discarded roots of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) by the high-efficiency ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). The optimized condition was determined as solid-liquid ratio SL ratio = 1:20, temperature T = 30 °C and time T = 40 min, achieving an extraction yield of 13.41%. Composition analysis revealed that glucose (Glc, 44.65%), rhamnose (Rha, 26.30%), galacturonic acid (GalA, 12.50%) and galactose (Gal, 9.86%) are the major monosaccharides of the extract. The extract showed a low degree of esterification (DE) value of 40.95%, and its Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrum exhibited several characteristic peaks of polysaccharides. Inspired by the wide cosmetic applications of polysaccharides, the skincare effect of the extract was evaluated via the moisture retention, total phenolic content (TPC) quantification, 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-free radical scavenging activity, anti-hyaluronidase and anti-elastase activity experiments. The extract solutions demonstrated a 48 h moisture retention rate of 10.75%, which is superior to that of commercially available moisturizer hyaluronic acid (HA). Moreover, both the TPC value of 16.16 mg GAE/g (dw) and DPPH-free radical scavenging activity of 89.20% at the concentration of 2 mg/mL indicated the strong anti-oxidant properties of the extract. Furthermore, the anti-hyaluronidase activity and moderate anti-elastase activity were determined as 72.16% and 42.02%, respectively. In general, in vitro skincare effect experiments suggest moisturizing, anti-oxidant, anti-radical and anti-aging activities of the A. manihot root extract, indicating its potential applications in the cosmetic industry.

Early vigour: A key to drought tolerance in cassava based on physiological and biochemical traits including inherent non-enzymatic antioxidant activity

An experiment was conducted with drought-tolerant and susceptible genotypes to find out the key traits that determine drought tolerance in cassava. The drought-tolerant clone 8S501 and the two susceptible clones H-97 and CR43-11 were planted in the field in a Randomized Block Design and the drought stress was imposed when the plants were three months old. The observations were measured at the beginning of the stress period (0-stress), 30 and 75 days of stress. The repeated measures ANOVA stated that there were significant differences among the genotypes, stress duration and their interaction for the majority of the traits. Growth, development and tuber yield of cassava was not significantly affected up to 30 days of drought stress. There was a greater decline in LA, TBM, CGR, RGR and NAR between 30 and 75 days of drought stress suggesting that measures are to be taken if drought stress prolongs for more than 30 days to realize optimum growth and yield of cassava. There was no increment in TY and PSR after 30 days of stress. A greater reduction was observed from 30 to 75 days of stress in leaf TC and CP content. There was a considerable increase in proline and total phenols content in the leaf from 30 to 75 days of stress. The inherent free radical scavenging activity measured as DPPH, FRAP and ABTS assays also demonstrated a notable increase in antioxidant activity at 75 days of drought stress. The early vigour in terms of initial high leafiness, leaf area, tuber yield, proportion of storage roots and total biomass in the first three months after planting facilitated the clone 8S501 to effectively tolerate the drought stress conditions.

Emulsifying property, antioxidant activity, and bitterness of soybean protein isolate hydrolysate obtained by Corolase PP under high hydrostatic pressure

Enzymatic hydrolysis of proteins can enhance their emulsifying properties and antioxidant activities. However, the problem related to the hydrolysis of proteins was the generation of the bitter taste. Recently, high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treatment has attracted much interest and has been used in several studies on protein modification. Hence, the study aimed to investigate the effects of enzymatic hydrolysis by Corolase PP under different pressure treatments (0.1, 100, 200, and 300 MPa for 1–5 h at 50 °C) on the emulsifying property, antioxidant activity, and bitterness of soybean protein isolate hydrolysate (SPIH). As observed, the hydrolysate obtained at 200 MPa for 4 h had the highest emulsifying activity index (47.49 m2/g) and emulsifying stability index (92.98 %), and it had higher antioxidant activities (44.77 % DPPH free radical scavenging activity, 31.12 % superoxide anion radical scavenging activity, and 61.50 % copper ion chelating activity). At the same time, the enhancement of emulsion stability was related to the increase of zeta potential and the decrease of mean particle size. In addition, the hydrolysate obtained at 200 MPa for 4 h had a lower bitterness value and showed better palatability. This study has a broad application prospect in developing food ingredients and healthy foods.

Whey protein Nanoparticles: Enhancing Solubility, Environmental Resistance, and Bio-accessibility of Pterostilbene

Pterostilbene (Pte) is a dietary phenolic compound derived from plants that offers numerous physiological advantages. Nonetheless, its low water solubility and limited oral bioavailability restrict its bioactivity. To address these limitations, nanoparticles were prepared using anti-solvent precipitation method. Optimal nanoparticles were achieved at a 10:1 mass ratio of whey protein isolate (WPI) to Pte, resulting in a particle size of 104.54 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.42, and an impressive encapsulation efficiency of Pte at 85.02%. The water solubility of Pte in the nanoparticles was found to be 53.14 times higher than that of free Pte and remained stable under various environmental conditions. Furthermore, the DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging activities of the nanoparticles were maximized at 55.58% and 92.97%, respectively. Pte release from WPI-Pte nanoparticles was well-fitted to Korsmeyer-Peppas model and followed a non-Fickian mechanism controlled by both diffusion and erosion. This environmentally friendly, straightforward, and efficient approach shows promise for large-scale production of Pte products with amplified health benefits.

The wound healing effect and DNA damage repair of exopolysaccharide extracted from Weissella cibaria MED17

Lactic acid bacteria can synthesize exopolysaccharides (EPSs), and some of these EPSs have pharmaceutical or medicinal properties. However, the wound healing capacities of EPSs have rarely been reported. In this study, EPS extracted from Weissella cibaria MED17 was used to investigate wound healing capacity. MED17 EPS was previously characterized and antioxidant capacity was also demonstrated. The application dose of the compound was determined by the MTT assay. The comet assay was applied to reveal the free radical scavenging activity and protection capacity of MED 17 against DNA damage by inducing oxidative stress and DNA damage with Mitomycin-C (MMC) in the cells. The comet assay showed that 15 mg/ml MED 17 EPS could ameliorate DNA damage by 50%. Moreover, the scratch test investigated the wound-healing effect of MED 17 EPS on HT-29 colon cells. MED 17 EPS could stimulate the migration of HT-29 and ameliorate MMC-induced DNA damage. However, further studies need to be conducted to clarify the mechanisms of the wound-healing process of MED 17.

Phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activities of Guizotia abyssinica L. leaf and flower extracts

Sustainable agricultural systems demand less or no use of synthetic chemicals, which have various adverse effects on the environment and human health. In this context, studies on phytochemicals with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties hold great promise to suppress plant diseases and, thereby, reducing the application of synthetic chemical pesticides. Such an alternative approach requires screening and identification of bioactive compounds from various plant species. In the present study, Guizotia abyssinica L., an oilseed crop plant that usually requires less water with no pesticide inputs to grow, was screened for its potential antioxidant and antimicrobial phytochemicals. The methanolic and aqueous extracts of leaves and flowers of G. abyssinica were tested for their polyphenol content (total phenols and flavonoids) and antioxidant potential. The antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities of both methanolic and aqueous extracts were higher in comparison to many previously reported plant extracts. Furthermore, leaf extracts of G. abyssinica have shown slightly higher antioxidant activity than flower extracts. In vitro antimicrobial studies confirmed the inhibitory effect of methanolic extracts of leaves and flowers against phytopathogens like Xanthomonas oryzae RR24, Fusarium sp. and Alternaria sp. The chemical nature and composition of these crude extracts were analyzed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Approximately, 29 bioactive compounds detected in GC-MS were predicted to have antimicrobial activity. Based on our results, we conclude that the extracts derived from G. abyssinica have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in inhibiting the proliferation of phytopathogens, thus exhibiting immense potential in promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

<i>In Vitro</i> Anti-oxidant and Antidiabetic Activity of the Leaves of <i>Stereospermum sauveolens</i> (Roxb.) DC

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic condition characterised by a persistent rise in blood glucose levels. Diabetes is just one of the many disorders that can be treated using natural remedies made from plants. Stereospermum suaveolens (Roxb.) DC, belongs to the family Bignoniaceae, commonly known as Padri. It is employed as a folk remedy in southern India to cure diabetes. Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the potential anti-diabetic and antioxidant properties of the hydroalcoholic extract of S. suaveolens (Roxb.) DC leaves through phytochemical screening and in vitro assays. Methods: Leaves of S. suaveolens (Roxb.) DC were collected and processed to obtain a hydroalcoholic extract. The extract was subjected to qualitative analysis to identify the presence of various phytochemical constituents. The free radical scavenging activity of the extract was evaluated using Nitric oxide radical scavenging assay and DPPH racial scavenging assay. In vitro anti-diabetic studies were performed through α-amylase inhibition assay and glucose uptake assay. Results: The hydroalcoholic extract of S. suaveolens (Roxb.) DC leaves exhibited the presence of bioactive compounds. The extract demonstrated dose-dependent free radical scavenging activity in the in vitro antioxidant assays. The extract showed remarkable inhibitory activity against α-amylase, suggesting its potential in controlling carbohydrate digestion. Also the extract significantly enhanced glucose uptake by yeast cells, indicating its potential to regulate blood glucose levels. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that the hydroalcoholic extract of S. suaveolens (Roxb.) DC leaves possesses both antioxidant and anti-diabetic properties. These results suggest its potential as a natural medicinal agent for the management and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Effects of Trichosanthis Radix Extract on Collagen Production

This study was conducted to study the effects of Trichosanthis Radix water extract (TR-W) and Trichosanthis Radix 60% ethanol extract (TR-E) on collagen production. As a result of conducting a cytotoxicity experiment on HDFn cells and RAW 264.7 cells, the experiment was conducted at a concentration of TR-W and TR-E at 100 mg/ml, which does not significantly affect the survival rate in HDF and RAW 264.7 cells. The effect on collagen synthesis ability showed an increase of 52% for the positive control group L-AA (vitamin C) 52% for TR-W 25% and TR-E 36% at 100 mg/ml proving its effect on collagen synthesis ability. In terms of inhibition of MMP-1 expression related to collagen damage L-AA (vitamin C) a positive control group, showed an inhibitory effect of 54%, and TR-W and TR-E showed an inhibitory effect of 72% and 68% at 100 mg/ml, thereby inhibiting collagen decomposition enzyme. MMP-1 was stably inhibited. Compared to Control, the free radical scavenging activity of L-AA (vitamin C) a positive control group, showed a scavenging activity of 108.4%, and in TR-W and TR-E, it showed an inhibitory effect of 93.4% and 98.2% at 100 mg/ml. In NO related to inflammation, showed an anti-inflammatory effect of 67.4% and 50.2% at a concentration of 100 mg/ml of TR-W and TR-E compared to the control group, which is expected to have a positive effect on collagen production due to inflammation. This study The results are judged to have the highest utility value as a functional cosmetic material considering the stability of the skin in the future.

How does water stress affect the bioaccumulation of galanthamine and lycorine, growth performance, phenolic content and defense enzyme activities in summer snowflake (Leucojum aestivum L.)?

AbstractLeucojum aestivum L. is an Amaryllidaceae bulbous plant with two alkaloids that have remarkable medicinal potential: galanthamine and lycorine. Although the presence of galanthamine in L. aestivum has commercial value for the pharmaceutical industry and the effect of water stress (WS) applications on secondary metabolite enhancement is well established in a variety of plants, no studies have been carried out to reveal the effectiveness of WS on this beneficial medicinal plant. Objective of the study was to investigate the effects of eight different WS treatments [Control, waterlogging (WL) condition, and drought stress conditions (water deficiency generated by water deficit irrigation-WDI 25%, 50%, and 75%- and polyethylene glycol-PEG 6000 15%, 30%, and 45%-)] on growth parameters, alkaloid levels (galanthamine and lycorine), non-enzymatic antioxidant activities (total phenol-flavonoid content and free radical scavenging activity), and enzymatic antioxidant activities [superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)] of L. aestivum in a pot experiment. Based on the findings, maximum increases in growth parameters were obtained with PEG-induced WS treatments. Moderate water deficiency (50% WDI) produced the highest levels of galanthamine and lycorine, total phenol-flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity, along with moderately elevated CAT activity in the bulbs. All WS treatments resulted in increased CAT activity in the bulbs. It was observed that bulbs had higher SOD and CAT activities under WL conditions had lower fresh weights and were close to control in terms of alkaloid levels, total phenol-flavonoid content, and free radical scavenging activity. When all of the outcomes were taken into account, it can be concluded that moderate water-deficit stress (50% WDI) was regarded as the most effective treatment for increasing the pharmaceutical value of L. aestivum. Graphical abstract

Nutritional/Chemical Constituents and Free Radical Scavenging Potentials of the Aqueous Extract of Phoenix dactylifera Fruit

Aims: Phoenix dactylifera fruit, grown majorly in northern part of Nigeria is acclaimed to possess numerous nutritional and medicinal properties. The study was carried out to investigate the nutritional/chemical constituents and the free radical scavenging potentials of the aqueous extract of Phoenix dactylifera fruit. Methods: The aqueous extract of the fruit was subjected to standard analytical test to assay for the amino acids, phytochemicals and free radical scavenging potentials: Phytochemicals and amino acids screening was carried out via High Performance Liquid Chromatography and Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry analyses. The antioxidant effects of the extract on free radicals were determined on radicals 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) , 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl , Nitric oxide and Hydroxyl radical. Results: Results revealed the presence of seven secondary metabolites with a high steroid and flavonoid content and low Coumarins, Glycosides, Alkaloids, Saponin, and Terpenoid concentration. The HPLC analysis of the phytochemical showed that it contained fifteen phytocompounds, seventeen amino acids while GCMS analysis reveals eleven fatty acids. For the free radical scavenging activity, it was able to inhibit ABTS, DPPH, NO, and OH-, in a concentration dependent manner. Conclusions: The results indicate that the fruit possess good nutritional properties and abundant secondary plant metabolites constituents and this might provide evidence which corroborates with the free radical scavenging potentials of the fruit.

Nutritional Quality of Conventional, Organic, and Hydroponic Tomatoes Commercialized in Quito, Ecuador.

The consumption of natural foods is increasingly high, and in recent years, consumers have preferred foods from systems with responsible management of natural resources (organic, hydroponic). However, there are still contradictions regarding the nutritional content of products from these different types of crops. Our study aims to compare, for the first time, the content of antioxidants (ascorbic acid, lycopene, total phenolics, essential fatty acids), micronutrients (copper, iron, manganese, zinc), contaminants (cadmium and lead), and free radical scavenging activity between conventional, organic, and hydroponic tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) sold in markets in Quito, Ecuador. Ascorbic acid and lycopene were determined by HPLC/UV-Vis. Total phenolics (Folin-Ciocalteu method) and free-radical scavenging activity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method) were determined via UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Lipid profiles were determined as fatty acid methyl esters through a GC-FID. Trace metals were determined using FAAS (micronutrients), and GFAAS (pollutants). No significant differences (p > 0.05) between antioxidant and micronutrient content among the three types of tomatoes were found. Regarding cadmium and lead, the contents were below the Codex Alimentarius threshold limits. Finally, free radical scavenging activity varied slightly (organic > hydroponic > conventional). Although the samples showed certain differences in antioxidant content, none of the tomato types could be considered nutritionally better because of the high variability of the results.

Screening of Antioxidative and Antiproliferative Activities of Crude Polysaccharides Extracted from Six Different Plants

Plant polysaccharides have gained interest in medical research for their ability to suppress various diseases, including cancer. However, information on some plant polysaccharides is yet to be uncovered. In this study, we screened crude polysaccharides extracted from six different plants for their antioxidative and antiproliferative activities. Crude polysaccharides were isolated from different parts of some plants using the established extraction protocol. The crude polysaccharides were evaluated for their chemical composition (protein, total sugar, and phenolics), free radical-scavenging activities, and antiproliferative activities against breast cancer MCF-7 cells as well as non-cancerous cells, i.e., human fibroblast MRC-5 cells and Cercopithecus aethiops kidney Vero cells, via an MTT assay and CM20 Incubation Monitoring System (Olympus) for MCF-7. The investigated crude polysaccharides showed significant variations in their chemical constituents and antioxidative properties. Only Moringa seed crude polysaccharide extracts showed significant antiproliferative activities at various concentrations, with an IC50 value of 0.061 mg/mL, which was about 2.6 folds higher on MRC-5 and Vero cell lines. The antiproliferative activities toward cancer cell lines and lack of significant toxicity in the case of normal cells indicate that this extract may be promising as a valuable source for novel cancer therapy.

The Incorporation of Clove Essential Oil into Nanostructured Lipid Carrier for Improvement of the Delivery and Antioxidant Effects on the Fibroblast Cells.

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) essential oil (CO) has been studied extensively for its antioxidant properties but faces several limitations, including high volatility, low aqueous solubility, and irritation. We aimed to develop a Nanostructured Lipid Carrier (NLC) to enhance the benefits of CO. Using the emulsification sonication method, a liquid lipid component, surfactant concentration, and a co-surfactant were optimized to create CO-loaded NLC (CO-NLC). The developed CO-NLC was rigorously assessed for its stability during storage. Free radical scavenging activity and fibroblast oxidative stress protection were also measured to assess the antioxidant activity. The CO-NLC displayed a spherical shape with a hydrodynamic diameter of 125.77 ± 29.68 nm, homogenous particle distribution with polydispersity index of 0.26 ± 0.09, and a surface charge of -27.30 ± 4.56 mV with an encapsulation efficiency of 97% and a good stability profile. Furthermore, free CO and CO-NLC displayed very strong free radical scavenging activity with the IC50 value of 22.74 ± 0.57 µg/mL and 18.28 ± 2.63 µg/mL, respectively. However, only CO-NLC managed to protect fibroblast cells from the harmful effects of oxidative stress. The NLC formulations improved free radical scavenging activity and effectively protected fibroblasts from oxidative stress compared to free CO.