Free Radical Scavenging Capability Research Articles

Inspecting the potential of thymol as a therapeutic agent for treating Alzheimer's disease

Thymol (2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol) is the main monoterpene phenol occurring in essential oils isolated from plants, like thyme, belonging to the Lemnaceae family.1 Due to its antioxidant, free radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties, thymol has been used since ancient times for therapeutic purposes.2 This letter specifically focuses on using thymol in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder which is caused due to the extracellular accumulation of amyloid B (AB) plaques and intracellular aggregations of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) formed due to hyperphosphorylation of microtubule associated t (tau) protein. The accumulation of these substances in various parts of the brain causes neuronal damage and death.3 Due to its free radical scavenging and antioxidant capabilities, thymol is able to scavenge the reactive oxygen species produced by the amyloid aggregates, thus attenuating the potential oxidative damage that they would cause. Thymol can also alleviate protein kinase C activity as a memory-related protein.4 thymol has proved to reduce the cognitive defects and was also found to alleviate learning and memory impairment in rat models.5,6 Although thymol has a lot of beneficial effects against cognitive impairment caused by Alzheimer’s, all of the experiments have been done on rat models; hence thymol’s therapeutic potentials in modulating and preventing Alzheimer in humans need to be fully explored.

Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Six Allium Extracts Using Protein-Based Biomimetic Methods.

Medicinal plants are a valuable reservoir of novel pharmacologically active compounds. ROS and free radicals are primary contributors to oxidative stress, a condition associated with the onset of degenerative diseases such as cancer, coronary heart disease, and vascular disease. In this study, we used different spectrophotometry methods to demonstrate the antioxidant properties of 6 Allium extracts: Allium fistulosum; Allium ursinum; Allium cepa: Arieș red cultivar of A. cepa, and white variety of A. cepa; Allium sativum; and Allium senescens subsp. montanum. HPLC-MS determined the chemical composition of the extracts. Among the tested extracts, the Arieș red cultivar of A. cepa stands out as having the best antioxidant activity, probably due to the high content of polyphenols and alliin (12.67 µg/mL and 3565 ng/mL, respectively). The results obtained in this study show that Allium extracts have antioxidant activity, but also free radical scavenging capabilities. Also, their interactions with cytochrome c and hemoglobin can be the basis of future studies to create treatments for oxidative stress-related diseases.

Standardisation and quality evaluation of millet-based Chikki using Quinoa and Bajra

Millet Chikki is a nutritionally enriched snack crafted from millet grains, an ancient gluten-free staple. This innovative take on traditional Chikki blends the goodness of millets with essential nutrients, catering to modern health-conscious consumers. Since, millets are known to be rich in proteins, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, it provides a sustainable source of energy. This study focuses on the standardization and quality evaluation of millet-based Chikki incorporating quinoa and bajra, with jaggery syrup as a sweetener. Three different formulations of Chikki were prepared: Sample-A (60% roasted quinoa, 30% jaggery syrup, 10% other ingredients), Sample-B (60% roasted bajra, 30% jaggery syrup, 10% other ingredients), and Sample-C (30% roasted quinoa, 30% roasted bajra, 30% jaggery syrup, 10% other ingredients). Sensory evaluation revealed that Sample-A had superior sensory attributes, including aroma, appearance, texture, taste, and overall acceptability, compared to Sample-B and Sample-C. Nutritional analysis showed that Sample-A had the highest energy content (699 kcal/100g) and a balanced nutrient profile. Antioxidant assays demonstrated significant free radical scavenging and reducing capabilities in Sample-A, while microbiological analysis confirmed its safety with low microbial load and absence of harmful pathogens. These findings highlight that the inclusion of roasted quinoa enhances both the sensory appeal and nutritional value of millet-based Chikki, making Sample-A the optimal formulation.

Alamandin and especially melatonin attenuate pulmonary arterial hypertension induced by monocrotalin.

Despite the available treatments, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) prognosis is poor. We aimed to investigate the effects of the alamandine (ALA), melatonin (MEL), and ALA + MEL in PAH. The rats were randomly divided into Control (n = 10), monocrotaline (MCT) (n = 12), ALA (n = 12), MEL (n = 12), and ALA + MEL (n = 12) groups. PAH was induced by MCT. The ALA, MEL, and ALA + MEL groups received 50 μg/kg/day ALA, 10mg/kg/day MEL, and ALA + MEL, respectively, for 35 days. Echocardiographic and hemodynamic measurements and tissue analyses (morphometric, histopathological, ELISA, and western blot) were performed. Monotherapies, especially MEL, reduced the right ventricular (RV) systolic pressure. Only MEL increased the pulmonary artery acceleration time. MCT increased the RV/left ventricle (LV) + interventricular septum (IVS) ratio. While ALA and ALA + MEL slightly decreased the RV/(LV + IVS), MEL significantly restored it. MCT increased the tunica intima-media (TIM) thickness, PCNA and α-SMA of pulmonary arterioles, histopathological score (HS) (inflammatory infiltration etc.) of the lung, and RV. All treatments reduced the TIM thickness (especially MEL), PCNA, and α-SMA. All treatments significantly decreased the HS of the lung; however, MEL and ALA + MEL produced greater benefits. All treatments attenuated the HS of RV. MCT caused a significant increase in lung lysyl oxidase (LOX) activity. All treatments restored the LOX; however, MEL and ALA + MEL provided greater improvement. While lung Nrf-2 was increased in MCT-treated rats, MEL reduced it. ALA, MEL, and ALA + MEL attenuate PAH and protect RV via antiproliferative, anti-remodeling, antihypertrophic, anti-inflammatory, and free radical scavenging (only MEL) capabilities. Overall, MEL produced the best outcomes.

Exploring the aroma profile and biomedical applications of Scutellaria nuristanica Rech. F.: A new insight as a natural remedy

BackgroundThe Scutellaria genus has promising therapeutic capabilities as an aromatherapy. Based on that and local practices of S. nuristanica Rech. F. The essential oil was studied for the first time for its diverse biomedical applications. PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate and validate their therapeutic capabilities by screening the essential oil ingredients and examining their antimicrobial, antioxidant, carbonic anhydrase, and antidiabetic using further In silico assessment and In vivo anti-inflammatory and analgesic capabilities to devise novel sources as natural remedies alternative to the synthetic drugs. MethodsEssential oil was obtained through hydrodistillation, and the constituents were profiled using GC–MS. The antimicrobial assessment was conducted using an agar well diffusion assay. Free radical scavenging capabilities were determined by employing DPPH and ABTS assay. The carbonic anhydrase-II was examined using colorimetric assay, while the antidiabetic significance was performed using α-Glucosidase assay. The anti-inflammatory significance was examined through carrageenan-induced paw edema, and the analgesic features of the essential oil were determined using an acetic acid-induced writhing assay. ResultsFifty constituents were detected in S. nuristanica essential oil (SNEO), contributing 95.93 % of the total EO, with the predominant constituents being 24-norursa-3,12-diene (10.12 %), 3-oxomanoyl oxide (9.94 %), methyl 7-abieten-18-oate (8.85 %). SNEO presented significance resistance against the Gram-positive bacterial strains (GPBSs), Bacillus atrophaeus and Bacillus subtilis, as compared to the Salmonella typhi and Klebsiella pneumoniae, Gram-negative bacterial strains (GNBSs) as well as two fungal strains Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus niger associated with their respective standards. Considerable free radical scavenging capacity was observed in DPPH compared to the ABTS assay when correlated with ascorbic acid. In addition, when equated with their standards, SNEO offered considerable in vitro carbonic anhydrase II and antidiabetic capabilities. Additionally, the antidiabetic behavior of the 9 dominant compounds of SNEO was tested via In silico techniques, such as molecular docking, which assisted in the assessment of the significance of binding contacts of protein with each chemical compound and pharmacokinetic evaluations to examine the drug-like characteristics. Molecular dynamic simulations at 100 ns and binding free energy evaluations such as PBSA and GBSA models explain the molecular mechanics and stability of molecular complexes. It was also observed that SNEO depicted substantial anti-inflammatory and analgesic capabilities. ConclusionHence, it was concluded that the SNEO comprises bioactive ingredients with biomedical significance, such as anti-microbial, antioxidant, CA-II, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic agents. The computational validation also depicted that SNEO could be a potent source for the discovery of anti-diabetic drugs.

Exploration of Sargassum wightii: Extraction, Phytochemical Analysis, and Antioxidant Potential of Polyphenol.

Background The marine environment, with its rich biodiversity and nutrient-dense ecosystems, offers immense potential for discovering novel pharmaceutical products. Sargassum wightiiis a type of brown seaweed that is particularly abundant in sulfated polysaccharides and polyphenolic compounds. These compounds are renowned for their wide range of biological activities. The exploration of such marine resources is crucial for identifying new compounds that can be harnessed for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. Aims and objectives The primary aim of this study is to explore the bioactive compounds present in S. wightii, with a specific focus on its polyphenolic content. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate the antioxidant properties of the compound. By doing so, the research aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on marine bioresources and their potential health benefits. Methods S. wightii samples were collected from the Mandapam coastal region in Rameshwaram, India. The cleaned seaweed was transported to the laboratory, where it was further washed, shade-dried, and ground into a fine powder. The powdered seaweed was then subjected to extraction using four different solvents: n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. Phytochemical analyses were conducted on these extracts to identify the presence of various bioactive compounds. The total phenolic content of the extracts was determined, and antioxidant activity was assessed using the phosphomolybdenum method. Functional groups present in the extracts were identified using Fourier Transform Infrared(FT-IR) spectroscopy. Results Among the solvents used, the methanol extract yielded the highest amount of crude extract. Phytochemical analysis revealed a variety of bioactive compounds, with the methanol extract showing a notable presence of polyphenols. The total phenolic content was measured at 1.25 ± 0.6 mg gallic acid equivalence (GAE)/g of extract. The antioxidant activity, assessed through the phosphomolybdenum method, demonstrated significant free radical scavenging capabilities with an IC50(half maximal inhibitory concentration) value of 68.23 ± 3.5 μg/mL. FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of functional groups characteristic of polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. Conclusion The study highlights the significant potential of S. wightii as a source of bioactive compounds with substantial antioxidant properties. These findings emphasize the importance of marine algae in the development of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products, showcasing S. wightii's promising role in health-related applications.

Effect of reaction temperatures on optical properties of clove buds derived carbon dots for targeting nucleolus

This work pacts with a simple and environmentally friendly hydrothermal method to synthesize clove buds-derived carbon dots (CCDs) at different temperatures. Five CCDs samples were synthesized at different reaction temperatures ranging from 120 °C to 200 °C, respectively. Using UV–Visible (UV–Vis) and fluorescence spectroscopy (FL), the optical characteristics of CCDs made at various temperatures were examined and compared. The results show that the optical properties of prepared carbon dots (CDs) are significantly influenced by the temperature of carbonization. The cytocompatibility and hemolysis studies of optimized CCDs were performed to understand their interaction in the biological environment. The free radical scavenging capability of CDs was also explored. Further, in vitro cellular imaging of optimized CCDs200 was performed which shows strong and multicolour emission when excited with different laser sources. Interestingly, CDs are capable of brightening up RNA-rich nucleoli. Testing using ribonuclease digestion validates the localization of the CCDs in the nucleolus. Further, intracellular stability and good counterstaining compatibility feature them as a promising fluorescence probe for nucleolus imaging. Therefore, we have explored medicinal plant fruits as a carbon precursor for the synthesis of CDs without using any modifier which can be a potential candidate for multicolour nucleolus imaging and free radical scavenging applications.

Facile strategy of supramolecular adhesives based on water-soluble polymers and tannic acid

There is a great deal of scientific interest in developing simple, adaptable, and affordable strategies for adhesive preparation. In this study, we present that naturally generated, inexpensive tannic acid (TA) can function as an effective gelation binder for the adhesive formulation with a series of commercially available water-soluble polymers. Due to the presence of a five-polyphenol-arm structure of TA, it can grip the polymer chain by hydrogen bonds or ionic bonds. These effective interactions can be properly balanced by adjusting the weight ratios of polymer to TA, which is the fundamental indication for the preparation of supramolecular adhesives. The prepared supramolecular adhesives demonstrate the variety of functionalities such as good adhesion performance, excellent biocompatibility, and free radical scavenging capabilities. TA as a dynamic and adaptable catechol group modifier renders a facile route for the preparation of multifunctional adhesives, which depicts evident advantages including easy and eco-friendly, inexpensive, and large-scale preparation. These supramolecular adhesives have great potential in the biomedicines, bioelectronics, and building industries.

Bioinspired nanozyme-reinforced hydrogels with free radical scavenging capability for treating temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ-OA) is usually caused by increased friction at the joint interface, excessive release of inflammatory factors and catabolic enzymes, and free radical accumulation, which can lead to accelerated degradation and damage of cartilage. In this study, we develop a biological metabolism-inspired injectable hydrogel crosslinking by hydrazide modified hyaluronic acid (HA-HYD), aldehyde modified hyaluronic acid (HA-ALD), and ε-polylysine coated catalase-mimic nanozyme (mesoporous manganese cobalt oxide). Herein, this nanozyme-reinforced hydrogel with outstanding and durable reactive oxygen species (ROS) depletion capability and biocompatibility can alleviate the oxidative stress microenvironment, improve cell viability and proliferation, as well as up-regulate chondrogenic related gene expression and cartilage matrix formation of chondrocytes in vitro. Intra-articular administration of this engineered hydrogel can effectively scavenge endogenous over-expressed ROS to ameliorate the harsh microenvironment in the cavity of TMJ-OA. The nanozyme-reinforced hydrogel reduced proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and enhance anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) expression, induced polarization of synovial macrophages towards M2 phenotype, alleviated structural damage to the cartilage and subchondral bone of the condyle, thus reducing cartilage matrix destruction and protect cartilage in osteoarthritis. In summary, the bioinspired nanozyme-reinforced hydrogels might be used as a promising ROS scavenger for treatment of TMJ-OA.

In vitro Biological Activities and Fatty Acid Composition Analysis of Musa paradisiaca L. Inflorescence

Musa paradisiaca L. is native to tropical climate. Inflorescences of this herb are used as a treatment of digestive distresses. This study involved analysis of the fatty acid contents and some in-vitro pharmacological activities of the inflorescence. Modified Kupchan method was used for extraction in solvents of varying polarity. Fatty acid content analysis was conducted on n-hexane extract; Palmitoleic acid was found to be the highest in proportion in both bound (34.40%) and free (37.80%) forms. n-hexane and dichloromethane extracts exhibited cytotoxicity against carcinoma cell (HeLa cell line). Ethyl acetate extract possessed significant amount of free radical (DPPH) scavenging capability (IC50 = 66.92±0.3065 μg/ml). The n-Hexane extract was found to be rich in phenolics (26.40 ± 0.033 mg GE/g) and flavonoids (83.40± 0.099 mg QE/g). Dichloromethane fraction exhibited the highest zone of inhibition (15 mm) against the bacterium Shigella dysenteriae. Ethyl acetate fraction showed blood clot lysis activity of 29.35% (standard streptokinase 63.05%). Presence of potent bioactivities imply the prospects of this sample as a source of lead compounds for effective formulations against chronic digestive diseases. Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 23(1): 69-76, 2024 (June)

Protective efficacy of nafronyl in diabetic retinopathy through targeted inhibition of key enzymes.

Diabetic retinopathy is governed by abnormal apoptosis, increased capillary pressure, and other linked pathology that needs an efficient treatment by multitargeted approaches. Thus, the current study aimed to explore the potential of inhibition of targeted enzymes (DPP4, ACE-2, and aldose reductase) and free radical scavenging capabilities of selected compounds (nafronyl or naftidrofuryl) through in silico and in vivo investigations. Significant binding energies were observed in complexes of aldolase reductase, angiotensin type 1 receptor, and DPP4 against the nafronyl and sitagliptin more than -7.5kcal/mol. Further validation of free energy was confirmed by calculations of molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MMPBSA), and configurational stabilities examined by PCA (principal component analysis). Additionally, drug-likeness was examined by the Swiss ADME web tool, which showed significant findings. Consequently, in vivo experimentations showed significant inflammation and alterations in retinal layers of inner plexiform (inner limiting membrane, nerve fibers, and ganglionic cells), inner nuclear layer (bipolar cells and horizontal cells), and photoreceptors cells. Whereas the treatments (nafronyl and sitagliptin) caused significant improvements in the histoarchitecture of the retina. Additionally, the HOMA indices (IR-insulin resistance, sensitivity, and β cells functioning) and levels of free radicals were significantly altered in the diabetic control group in comparison to intact control. Nafronyl administration showed significant ameliorations in HOMA indices as well as antioxidant levels. Based on the results, it can be concluded that nafronyl efficiently interacts with target enzymes, which may result in potent inhibition and ameliorations in retinal histology as well as glucose homeostasis and antioxidants.

Facile synthesis of iminated lignin for enhanced free radical and lead ion scavenging capabilities

Kraft lignin (KL) holds significant potential as a renewable resource for the development of innovative materials that are currently not fully utilized. In this study, a novel iminated lignin (IL) was synthesized by grafting primary amine lignin (N−KL) onto salicylaldehyde. The effects of the dosage and reaction temperature on the nitrogen content of N-KL were evaluated. The maximum nitrogen content in N-KL reached to 3.32 %. Characterization by spectroscopy techniques (FT-IR, XPS, and NMR), elemental analysis, and gel permeation chromatography confirmed the imination of lignin. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of the lignin samples was investigated using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability. Moreover, the DPPH radical scavenging capacity of IL-6 (IC50 = 38.6 ± 3.9 μg/mL) was close to that of commercial antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (IC50 = 37.7 ± 4.5 μg/mL). Furthermore, the adsorption equilibrium results indicated that IL-6 had a maximum uptake of 115.6 mg/g Pb2+, which was 3.2-fold higher than that of KL. Kinetic adsorption experiments suggested that IL-6 adsorption follows a pseudo-second-order model. Therefore, the synthesized iminated lignin is a promising candidate for the development of environmentally friendly materials with applications as an antioxidant and lead-ion adsorbent.

Effect of Organic Acid-Aided Extraction on Characteristics and Functional Properties of Pectin from Cannabis sativa L.

The extraction of cannabinoids from the inflorescence and leaves of Cannabis sativa L. is gaining interest from researchers, in addition to addressing the under-utilization of the by-products in the stems and roots of the trees. The present study investigated the recovery of pectin from the left-over parts of hemp tress using an eco-friendly method with the aid of organic acids. Different cannabis cultivars-Chalotte's Angels (CHA) and Hang-Krarog (HKR)-were used as plant materials. The stems of both cannabis cultivars contained more pectin than the roots, and tartaric acid-aided extraction provided higher yields than from citric acid. Extracting the acid solution affected some characteristics, thereby differentiating the functional properties of the derived pectin. Extraction using tartaric acid provided pectin with a higher galacturonic acid content, whereas pectin with a higher methylation degree could be prepared using citric acid. The pectin samples extracted from the stems of CHA (P-CHA) and HKR (P-HKR) had low methoxyl pectin. P-CHA had better free radical scavenging capability, whereas P-HKR showed more potent reducibility. Considering the functional properties, P-CHA showed greater emulsion formability and foaming activity, whereas P-HKR possessed a better thickening effect. The present work suggests the feasible utilization of P-CHA and P-HKR as food additives with bioactivity.

Monoclinic α-Bi2O3 nanorods by microwave-assisted synthesis: Photocatalytic and antioxidant properties

Nanotechnology has emerged as a new route for addressing most environmental and medical challenges, hence this field of research continues to generate research interest. Herein, Bi2O3 was synthesized by a microwave-assisted thermal process. X-ray diffraction (XRD) result confirmed that a nanocrystalline monoclinic crystal structure of the α-phase was formed, and both the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis confirmed that the synthesized α-Bi2O3 were rod-like in shape. The length of the nanorods was in the range of 60–160 nm, with an average dimension of 101.5 nm, while the width has an average value of 23 nm. A band gap energy value of 2.75 eV was obtained from the absorption spectroscopy, and they absorbed light in the UV to visible range, with an absorption maximum of around 345 nm. Photocatalytic activity of the nanorods under UV irradiation was investigated by assessing the degradation of Bromocresol green (BG) as a model pollutant. The degradation process of the dye molecules was studied at different concentrations (20–80 mg/L), varied photocatalyst dosage (0.025, 0.05, 0.075, and 1.0 g), and a range of solution pH (3, 6, 9, and 12). About 75 % optimum photocatalytic efficiency was achieved at pH 6 after 3 h. In addition, the results showed that an increase in catalyst dosage and concentration of dye molecules contributed to promoting the degradation effect. Moreover, the photocatalyst was found to be stable after 4 consecutive cycles, with negligible loss of efficiency. The antioxidant potency of the nanorods was assessed by evaluating their free radical scavenging capabilities across 4 different assays: 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyle (DPPH), Nitric oxide (NO), Hydrogen peroxide (HP) radical inhibition, and Reducing power (RP). The results from the IC50 values indicated the sample exhibited better inhibition of HP (25.22 µg/mL), followed by RP (28.22 µg/mL), NO (29.37 µg/mL), and DPPH (32.72 µg/mL) respectively. However, the standard Ascorbic acid exhibited IC50 values of 16.25, 24.50, 25.07, and 28.40 µg/mL for DPPH, RP, HP, and NO, respectively. These unique properties of the nanorods showed that they have good antioxidant potential that is comparable with that of Ascorbic acid used as the standard.

GC–MS based antioxidants characterization in Saussurea heteromalla (D. Don) Hand-Mazz by inhibition of nitric oxide generation in macrophages

For centuries, medicinal plants have served as the cornerstone for traditional health care systems and same practice is still prevalent today. In the Himalayan region, Saussurea heteromalla holds a significant place in traditional medicine and is used to address various health issues. Despite its historical use, little exploration has focused on its potential for scavenging free radicals and reducing inflammation. Hence, our current study aims to investigate the free radical scavenging capabilities of S. heteromalla extracts. The n-hexane extract of entire plant revealed promising activity. This extract underwent extensive extraction on a larger scale. Subsequent purification, employing column chromatography, HPLC–DAD techniques, led to the identification of active compounds, confirmed via GC–MS and the NIST database as 1-O-butyl 2-O-octyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate and 2,4-ditert-butylphenol. Assessing the free radical scavenging properties involved utilizing RAW-264.7 macrophages activated by lipopolysaccharides. Notably, the compound 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol exhibited remarkable scavenging abilities, demonstrating over 80% inhibition of Nitric oxide. This study stands as the inaugural report on the isolation of these compounds from S. heteromalla.

In-vitro study on antioxidant status of Zinc NPs and crude extract of Ayurvedic herbal formulation

Background: To create and evaluate cutting-edge therapeutic composition on biosynthesized nanoparticles exhibiting varied biological activity, nanotechnology is a novel and forward-thinking method. Increased antioxidant activity decreased toxicity to free radicals as well as cancer cells, and other benefits are achieved carefully by regulating the form and nanoparticle dimensions.Methods: Nanostructures biosynthesized utilizing Liv-Pro-08 AHF showed a strong antioxidant effect. The creation of novel and more efficient antioxidants may benefit from the usage of nanoparticles. It is noteworthy that the resulting nanoparticles exhibit more biological processes than the extract. This research aims to calculate if there are any noticeable differences in the behaviour of leaf extracts and the many nanomaterials obtained from the aqueous-based separation of Liv-Pro-08 Ayurveda herbal-based formulations.Results: Several in-vitro free radical scavenging experiments were used to determine whether or not Liv-pro-08 nanoparticles possessed any antioxidant properties. Zinc nanoparticles generated from Liv-pro-08 ayurvedic formulation demonstrated dose-dependent suppression of DPPH, as well as concentration-dependent lowering power potential, indicating that the nanomaterials contain free radical scavenging capability to produce the antioxidant effect.Conclusion: Nanoparticles might be useful for the development of newer and more potent antioxidants. It is worth mentioning that the resultant nanoparticles possess an elevated biological activity in comparison to the extract. The data represented in our study contribute to a novel and unexplored area of nano materials as alternative medicine.Keywords: Antioxidants; Biosynthesis; Leaf extract; Liv-pro-08; Zinc

An In vitro Study on impact of Vitamin-C on Cefuroxime mediated alterations in Bio-parameters associated with free Radical linked Lipid Decomposition

Background: Lipid peroxidation can be interpreting as an oxidative degeneration of lipids. It happens when a hydroxyl radical removes an electron from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which can react with oxygen and other polyunsaturated fatty acids to produceperoxyl radicals and hydroperoxides, thus promulgating the injury. So this repeat cycle of lipid peroxidation process can be responsible of cellular damage. Drug-induced lipid peroxidation is an important phenomenon found to be involved behind it’s certain hazardous side effects due to the generation toxic end products of such peroxidation like malonaldehyde (MA), hydroxynonenal (HNE), etc. Antioxidants play a crucial role in modifying such processes due to their free radical scavenging capability. Objective: Keeping in mind the matter, thisin vitroinvestigation was conducted using cefuroxime, a cephalosporin antibiotic as drug of choice and vitamin C as antioxidant taking liver tissue of goat as lipid source. Methods: The liver homogenate was divided in certain experimental groups that were treated with cefuroxime and ascorbic acid for specific time periods. The level of MA and HNE in the samples was estimated and compared with control. Result: The result showed that Cefuroxime has lipid peroxidation induction capability that was counteracted by ascorbic acid. Conclusion: Thus cefuroxime-induced, peroxidation associated, toxicities may be managed well upon co-administration with the antioxidant vitamin C.

Minocycline‐Loaded Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles for the Enhanced Treatment of Intracerebral Hemorrhage

AbstractInflammatory responses and neuronal ferroptosis, which are associated with abnormal accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), exert crucial damaging effects on the brain after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). In this study, minocycline (MC)‐loaded cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2‐MC) are constructed for combined ICH treatment. Ultra‐small CeO2 (≈5 nm) synthesized via a high‐temperature approach exhibits powerful free‐radical scavenging and iron‐chelating abilities. In vitro experiments demonstrated that CeO2‐MC effectively attenuated the ROS levels in mouse microglial cells and neurons following oxyhemoglobin stimulation. In addition, CeO2‐MC exhibits iron chelation properties and stabilizes the mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby promoting anti‐inflammatory responses and preventing neuronal ferroptosis. In an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) mouse model, CeO2‐MC exhibited robust free radical scavenging capabilities and demonstrated the ability to preserve mitochondrial morphology and function, mitigate brain edema, and maintain blood–brain barrier integrity by inhibiting neuroinflammation and ferroptosis. Neurobehavioral tests demonstrated that CeO2‐MC significantly ameliorated spatial learning ability and sensorimotor function after ICH. Consequently, a general strategy using CeO2 nanoparticles to augment the therapeutic efficacy of MC highlights a new perspective for the in‐depth treatment of ICH.

Evaluation of the thermal degradation kinetics of vitamin C in the pulp of tumbo (Passiflora mollissima b.)

Vitamin C is an important micronutrient, which is found in acidic fruits such is the case of tumbo, studies have shown beneficial effects of vitamin C on health due to its antioxidant and free radical scavenging capabilities. The objective of the research was to evaluate the thermal degradation kinetics of vitamin C of the pulp of tumbo (Passiflora mollissima b.). The pulp of tumbo was prepared and subsequently subjected to different temperatures (60, 70 and 80 ° C) and times (0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 min). The vitamin C content in the pulp of tumbo was 77.01 mg / 100g which was analyzed by spectrophotometry. The results showed that vitamin Cdegradation followed second-order kinetic models. The degradation rate constants for ascorbic acid in the tumbo pulp were: k60 = 0.014 min-1, k70 = 0.019 min-1 and k80 = 0.023 min-1 and the decimal reduction times are: D60 = 162.17 min, D70 = 121.74 min and D80 = 101.76 min. The z value was 99 ° C, the Ea in the temperature range of 60-80 ° C is 22.84 kJ / mol and the value of Q10 is 1.60. The optimal time and temperature of pasteurization in the pulp of tumbo is 10.69 min at 60 ° C, for presenting the best correlation index, retaining the greatest amount of ascorbic acid, presenting a lower reaction rate and requiring a longer time of decimal reduction. It was concluded that the higher the temperature, the higher the degradation of vitamin C, the data obtained will help to predict the best conditions of processing of the pulp of tumbo and minimize degradation since it is an important quality factor.

Selenium nanoparticles synthesized via green methods from Calluna vulgaris extract: Exploring their antioxidant and antibacterial activities

This study introduces a sustainable and environmentally friendly method for synthesizing selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) by using Calluna vulgaris as a reducing agent. The process involves the addition of Na2SeO3 to a C. vulgaris aqueous solution, followed by reduction with ascorbic acid. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed SeNP formation, with a distinct absorption peak at 289 nm. Morphological analysis via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed spherical nanoparticles below 100 nm, as corroborated by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) images displaying sizes ranging from 42.91 to 66.93 nm. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) confirmed the presence of selenium. Antibacterial assessments demonstrated the efficacy of C.vulgaris Selenium Nanoparticles (Cv-SeNPs) against gram-positive (Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli). Cv-SeNPs exhibited notable antibacterial activity, particularly against E. Faecalis. In terms of antioxidant activities, Cv-SeNPs exhibited significant scavenging potential against DPPH and ABTS radicals, with low IC50 values of 24.72 and 16.87 µg/mL, respectively. The scavenging activities increased with concentration, reaching 86.6% for DPPH and 99.7% for ABTS at specific concentrations. The inclusion of ascorbic acid as a capping agent further augmented the free radical scavenging capabilities, indicating a synergistic relationship between selenium nanoparticles and capping agents. This research underscores the dual functionality of Cv-SeNPs as effective antibacterial agents and potent antioxidants. The green synthesis methodology utilizing C. vulgaris offers a sustainable approach for producing selenium nanoparticles with desirable characteristics, suggesting potential applications in medicine and industry. Further research on biomedical and industrial uses of Cv-SeNPs is needed.