High Antioxidant Content Research Articles

Bromatological analysis and quantification of calcium oxalates in tender prickly pear flour from different Opuntia cultivars

The average consumption of Opuntia spp. (tender prickly pear) per person in Mexico is 6.3 kg per year due to the convenience of its valuable nutraceutical properties and medicinal benefits and their high concentrations of calcium, fiber, minerals, calcium oxalates, and antioxidants. The Opuntia spp. is used in a wide range of applications, and the food industry has developed flours derived from it as a substitute. The objective of this study was to know the chemical and nutritional qualities of Opuntia (tender prickly pear) prickly pear flour using three Opuntia types, Jalpa, Villanueva and Oreja de Elefante. The tender prickly pear was classified into four ranges of fresh weight, No. 1 (<150 g), No. 2 (150-300 g), No. 3 (300-600 g), and No. 4 (>600 g). The results were subjected to statistical analysis (ANOVA) and mean comparisons using the Tukey method. The chemical and nutrient composition varied according to the variety of prickly pear and tender prickly pear and their stage of ripeness, which correlates with the mass of the cladodes. Results showed that as the weight and degree of ripeness increased, the fiber concentration also increased in the Oreja de Elefante cultivar, having a higher concentration of 9.06% compared to the other cultivars. The calcium oxalates had a negative relationship with age in all Opuntia cultivars. The cultivars showed a higher density of crystals in the upper part and a reduction in crystal density in the basal part, with the Villanueva cultivar having the highest in the upper part with 58.50 calcium oxalate crystals and the middle part with 45.69 calcium oxalates; however, for the basal part the Oreja de Elefante cultivar had the highest concentration with 36.00 calcium oxalate crystals.

Daya Terima dan Kandungan Serat, Protein, Daya Antioksidan Keciput Kulit Buah Naga Merah dengan Penambahan Tepung Beras Merah Sebagai Jajanan Sehat

Red dragon fruit peel has high antioxidant content and abundant availability in Indonesia but is still rarely utilized. Brown rice has a higher fiber content than white rice. Brown rice and dragon fruit skin can be processed into keciput snacks. Keciput is a snack made from glutinous rice flour wrapped in sesame seeds that can be varied in shape, color and taste. The aim is to determine the effect of the acceptability of red dragon fruit peel keciput with the addition of brown rice flour as a healthy snack. Completely randomized design (CRD) experiment with 3 treatments on red dragon fruit peel and brown rice F1 (50%:50%), F2 (60%:40%) and F3 (70%:30%). Acceptability test on 30 untrained panelists and analyzed using Kruskal Wallis and Mann Whitney tests with a significance of p<0.05. Analysis of fiber content, protein, and antioxidant power was done twice on the selected formulations. There was an effect on the acceptability of red dragon fruit skin snails and brown rice flour (p<0.001). There was no effect of acceptability in the comparison of F2 and F3 on color, aroma, and taste (p=0.252; p=8.24; p=0.247). The highest mean value of acceptability was in F2 (selected). F2 contained 27.653% fiber, 17.346% protein, and 107.268 ppm antioxidant power.

Ameliorative effect of α-tocopherol and curcumin against the deleterious effects of hydrogenated (thermally oxidized) rice bran oil in rats

Rice bran oil (RBO) is known for its health benefits due to its high content of natural antioxidants like tocotrienols, tocopherols, and oryzanols, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation. However, repeated heating of RBO above 110°C leads to degradation, forming harmful oxidative components and reducing its antioxidant content. This study aimed to investigate the effects of long-term consumption of thermally oxidized RBO on rats and the potential protective effects of curcumin and α-tocopherol supplementation. RBO was subjected to oxidative degradation through repeated frying cycles at temperatures ranging from 100°C to 180°C for 45 days. Physicochemical and phytochemical parameters of the oxidized RBO were analyzed. In vivo experiments evaluated serum biochemical, hematological, and histopathological parameters, along with oxidative and inflammatory responses in rats fed with oxidized RBO for 45 days. Results showed that thermal oxidation at 180°C significantly altered the chemical composition of RBO, increasing oxidative markers and reducing nutritional components. Consumption of oxidized RBO led to decreased body weight gain, elevated levels of various biochemical markers indicating liver and kidney dysfunction, hyperlipidemia, and increased oxidative and inflammatory damage in rats. However, supplementation with curcumin and α-tocopherol effectively mitigated these harmful effects. In conclusion, long-term consumption of thermally oxidized RBO negatively affects health parameters in rats, but fortification with curcumin and α-tocopherol helps alleviate these adverse effects

Aromatic Herbs of the Lamiaceae Family as Functional Ingredients in Wheat Tortilla

The rationale for this research is the investigation of the potential health benefits as well as the antibacterial and antifungal properties of selected aromatic plants from the Lamiaceae family, which may lead to the development of improved functional foods. The present study investigated the effects of incorporating dried aromatic plants Thymus vulgaris, Thymus serpyllum, Thymus × citriodorus, Origanum vulgare and Rosmarinus officinalis at a concentration of 1% in refined wheat flour and wholemeal flour on the production of functional tortillas. Sensory analysis was employed to identify the optimal 1% addition, with the objective of achieving a favorable flavor and aroma profile. It was hypothesized that this addition would affect water activity, moisture, texture, color, antioxidant content and phenolic content, thereby enhancing the tortillas as a source of bioactive compounds. The results indicated that the type of flour used had a significant impact on the water activity of the tortillas, with wholemeal flour resulting in higher water activity than refined flour. The water activity ranged between 0.735 and 0.821, while the water content remained relatively stable. The water activity in whole-grain tortillas was significantly higher than that of refined flour tortillas, with a value exceeding 0.8, which makes them susceptible to mold growth and the production of mycotoxins. The sensory evaluations indicated that the enriched refined flour tortillas with common thyme (Thymus vulgaris), lemon thyme (Thymus × citriodorus) and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) were rated highly; a similar result was observed for the whole-grain tortillas enriched with wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum) and lemon thyme. The whole-grain tortillas with rosemary were rated the highest of all the tortillas. The addition of aromatic plants increased the phenolic content and the antioxidant potential, depending on the flour type and the plant used. The addition of wild thyme and rosemary resulted in a significant increase in the phenolic content of wheat tortillas, while all enriched whole-grain tortillas exhibited a higher phenolic content than the control samples. The highest phenolic content in whole-grain tortillas was found in those fortified with rosemary, oregano and wild thyme. The highest antioxidant content was recorded in tortillas prepared with rosemary, irrespective of whether the flour used was refined or wholemeal. Fourteen phenolic compounds were tentatively identified in aromatic plants tested. The main phenolic compounds in Origanum vulgare were flavonoids. Rosmarinic acid was the dominant phenolic compound in rosemary and all thyme species, reaching the highest level in rosemary. Such high levels of rosmarinic acid may be responsible for the high antioxidant and total phenolic contents observed in rosemary extracts and also in tortillas when this plant is included in the recipe. The results of this study indicate that selected aromatic plants, particularly rosemary, have the potential to be utilized as functional ingredients in bakery products. By incorporating dried aromatic plants from the Lamiaceae family into wheat flour tortillas, food manufacturers can create products that not only taste better but also provide added health benefits. The use of selected herbs can improve the nutritional profile of tortillas by increasing antioxidant properties and, due to the properties of herbs, extend the shelf life of the product.

Analysis of Phenolic Content of Green Tea Kombucha and Butterfly Pea (Clitoria Ternatea L.) Flower Kombucha Using Spectrophotometer Uv-Vis

Kombucha is a health drink that comes from fermented green tea and microorganisms such as Acetobacter xylinum. Kombucha is believed to have high antioxidant content. Butterfly pea flowers (Clitoria ternatea L.) can be used as a basic ingredient for making kombucha because they are believed to have high phenolic content. Phenolics are compounds that have hydroxyl groups (-OH) and contribute most to antioxidant activity. The aim of this research was to determine the levels of phenolic compounds in green tea kombucha and butterfly pea flower kombucha. This research used experimental research by testing phenolic levels using a spectrophotometer uv-vis instrument. The results showed that the phenolic content of green tea kombucha was 162.35 mg/L GAE and butterfly pea flower kombucha was 124.46 mg/L GAE. Thus, the highest phenolic content is found in green tea kombucha.

Azadirachta indica (Neem) and its Active Ingredients' Therapeutic Significance in the Prevention and Treatment of Diseases

Neem (Azadirachta indica) belongs to the Meliaceae family and is known for its health-promoting effects due to its high antioxidant content. It has been extensively utilised in Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Unani remedies globally, particularly in the Indian Subcontinent, for the treatment and prevention of several ailments. Prior research has established that neem and its components are involved in the removal of free radicals and the prevention of disease development. Research conducted using animal models has demonstrated that neem and its primary components play a crucial role in the management of cancer by influencing numerous molecular pathways, such as p53, pTEN, NF-𝜅B, PI3K/Akt, Bcl-2, and VEGF. Medicinal plants are often regarded as safe and have the ability to regulate many biological processes without causing any negative effects. This article provides an overview of the role of Azadirachtaindica in the prevention and treatment of illnesses by regulating different biological and physiological pathways

Evaluation of anti-aging and antioxidant properties of a new rose variety, Ever-rose

BackgroundRose flowers contain active ingredients such as flavonoids and volatile oils and are acknowledged to be good natural resources owing to their anti-aging and antioxidant properties. In this study, we develop four new rose varieties (named Ever-rose) that are fragrant, pest resistant, and easy to grow. Subsequently, we evaluate the properties of Ever-rose and its potential for use in anti-aging products.MethodsThe chemical composition of Ever-rose was determined using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography triple time-of-flight mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry. The antioxidant activity of the Ever-rose extract was evaluated using various assays, including superoxide dismutase activity, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging capacity, and xanthine oxidase activity. The variations in proteolytic matrix metalloproteinase-1 expression, collagen content after ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, and reactive-oxygen-species (ROS) levels after infrared A (IRA) treatment were evaluated. The variations in cell elasticity were assessed via atomic force microscopy.ResultsThe petal extracts of Ever-rose (named ER004(P), ER011(P), ER012(P), and ER015(P)) showed good antioxidant activity. They effectively inhibited UV irradiation-induced MMP-1 expression and IRA irradiation-induced increase in mitochondrial ROS levels. Additionally, they inhibited variations in cell shape and elasticity as aging progressed. In particular, ER011(P) demonstrated the best anti-aging and antioxidant effects.ConclusionThe newly developed Ever-rose showed excellent antioxidant and anti-aging effects. In particular, ER011(P) demonstrated the best properties owing to its high antioxidant content. Hence, it exhibits significant potential as a functional cosmetic ingredient.Graphical

Incubating frozen-thawed buffalo sperm with olive fruit extracts counteracts thawing-induced oxidative stress and improves semen quality

Freezing-thawing procedures and semen manipulation for in vitro fertilization induce oxidative stress, which in turn leads to impaired sperm quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether incubation of frozen-thawed buffalo semen with olive fruit extracts (OFE), known to contain a high concentration of phenolic antioxidants, would improve semen quality by reducing oxidative stress.Frozen sperm (4 ejaculates/4 bulls/3 replicates) were thawed and diluted to 30 × 106/mL in IVF medium with 0, 72, 143, and 214 μL/mL of OFE, corresponding to 0 (D0-control), 50 (D50), 100 (D100), and 150 (D150) μM hydroxytyrosol. Sperm viability, acrosome integrity, membrane functionality, motility, and sperm kinetics were evaluated immediately after thawing (T0) and after 1 (T1) and 2 h (T2) of incubation at 38.7 °C. Based on the results, sperm biological antioxidant potential (BAP) and ROS levels (ROMs) were assessed in D0 and D100 groups at T1 and T2. To assess the effect of OFE on fertilizing ability, heterologous penetration rates were also evaluated, using bovine abattoir-derived oocytes.The treatment with OFE at all concentrations tested increased (P < 0.05) the percentage of acrosome intact spermatozoa compared to the D0-control at T1, but the effect was more evident (P < 0.01) with D100 (54.5 ± 3.0, 60.5 ± 1.5, 65.2 ± 3.3, and 62.5 ± 1.7, with D0, D50, D100, and D150 OFE, respectively). Total motility, progressive motility, rapid velocity, and progressive velocity decreased (P < 0.05) at T2 only in the D0-control group. The percentage of rapidly progressive sperm and the progressive motility tended to increase (P < 0.10) at T1 and T2, respectively, in D100 compared to D0 (24.7 ± 4.1 vs 16.4 ± 1.6 and 22.8 ± 2.7 vs 17.0 ± 1.2, respectively). The treatment with D100 OFE of frozen-thawed sperm increased (P < 0.05) some kinetic parameters (VAP and WOB). Spermatozoa incubated with D100 OFE exhibited higher (P < 0.01) total and normospermic oocyte penetration rates compared to D0 (86.5 ± 1.4 vs 78.5 ± 0.7, and 70.6 ± 1.5 vs 63.8 ± 1.1, respectively). Additionally, D100 OFE increased sperm BAP concentrations at both T1 and T2, while ROS levels were unaffected. These results suggest that incubating frozen-thawed buffalo semen with OFE is an effective strategy for preserving semen quality and in vitro fertilization ability by enhancing sperm antioxidant capacity.

An Evaluation of Different Sweet Olive Cultivars with Different Ripening Degrees Grown in the Puglia Region, Southeastern Italy

Some olive cultivars grown in southeastern Italy are characterized by the production of olives with a reduced level of bitterness. They are known as sweet olive cultivars and fruits are usually consumed directly or cooked without any debittering process, offering either health benefits to consumers, thanks to the high content of antioxidants, or an economic benefit to farmers for their higher price with respect to both table and oil olives. This study evaluates and compares the organoleptic, pomological, chemical, and physical parameters of seven sweet olive cultivars at different ripening degrees in the Puglia region over 8 weeks of maturity stage for two consecutive seasons (2022 and 2023). The organoleptic evaluation was performed by a restricted panel of usual consumers/experts of sweet olives. The results showed a higher preference for the olive cultivars locally named Triggiano Dolce, Cerasella, and Mele. Significant differences in weight, length, and width of the fruits were observed based on both cultivar and year. The phenolic composition of olive cultivars was significantly affected by both cultivar and harvest year, with Cazzinicchio and Cellina di Nardò having the highest total polyphenols. The analysis of water fraction extracted from olive samples by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry led to the identification of eleven compounds belonging to the secoiroids, phenylpropanoids, phenylethanolids, and flavonoids classes. The comparison of these compounds among the studied cultivars highlighted significant differences.

Physicochemical and sensory properties of fermented milk supplemented with sundried African horned melon

AbstractAfrican horned melon (AHM) (Cucumis metuliferus), indigenous to Kenya. It contains high polyphenol and antioxidant content, yet remains underutilized in food products. This study sought to increase the utilization of AHM by developing a supplemented milk product and evaluating the effects of sundried AHM powder on the physicochemical and sensory properties of the fermented milk product. The fermented milk was supplemented with three different forms of AHM powder: whole fruit, peel, and seed, at concentrations of 0.5%, 0.7%, and 1% w/v. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, total titratable acidity (TTA), syneresis, texture, and viscosity were measured, alongside sensory acceptability assessments. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant differences (p &lt; 0.05) in physicochemical and sensory properties between the control (did not contain AHM) and supplemented samples, particularly at higher concentrations and extended storage periods. The inclusion of AHM powder markedly influenced the fermented milk's properties, with increased TTA and syneresis in samples with higher melon powder concentrations. TTA ranged between 0.32% and 0.46% among all samples during storage which were comparatively higher than the recommended values for fermented milk products at 0.3%. pH findings range was 4.22 and 4.58. The pH range between 4.2 and 4.6 is recommended by FDA for fermented milk. Syneresis were between 2% and 13%. Texture was between 1.24 and 3.95 N. Viscosity was between 1.67 and 3.87 cP. Sensory scores ranged from 8.00 to 2.67 during storage. Fruit seed powder (FSP1) recorded the lowest amount of pH. Control maintained a higher score in the sensory attributes.

Ex Vivo Study of Colon Health, Contractility and Innervation in Male and Female Rats after Regular Exposure to Instant Cascara Beverage.

Instant Cascara (IC) is a sustainable beverage made from dried coffee cherry pulp, a by-product of coffee processing. It is rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds and has a high concentration of antioxidants. This study explored the impact of regular IC consumption on colonic motor function and innervation. Over a period of 4 weeks, male and female healthy rats were given drinking water containing 10 mg/mL of IC. Thereafter, colon samples were obtained to evaluate the longitudinal (LM) and circular (CM) smooth muscle contractile response to acetylcholine (ACh) and electrical field stimulation (EFS) in an organ bath, before and after atropine administration (10-6 M). Histological and immunohistochemical analyses assessed colon damage, muscle thickness, and immunoreactivity to substance P (SP) and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). ACh and EFS induced similar responses across groups, but the CM response to EFS was greater in females compared with males, despite their lower body weight. Atropine completely blocked the response to ACh but only partially antagonized the neural response to EFS, particularly that of CM in females treated with IC, which had a greater liquid intake than those exposed to water. However, in the myenteric ganglia, no statistically significant differences were observed in SP or nNOS. Our results suggest that regular IC exposure may enhance specific neural pathway functions, particularly in females, possibly due to their increased IC consumption.

Enhancing the antioxidant properties of functional herbal beverages using Ultrasonic-Assisted extraction: Optimized formulation and synergistic combinations of taurine and vit. C

Functional herbal beverages are gaining popularity in the beverage industry due to their natural antioxidants. However, the high concentration of antioxidants in these beverages can lead to increased toxicity, limiting their use. Moreover, the composition of tap water, including mineral salts and hydrogen carbonate ions, hampers the extraction process of polyphenolic compounds, thereby reducing the antioxidant properties. This study aims to address these challenges by enhancing antioxidant properties, reducing toxic effects, and improving the extraction process. Low-dose herbal extracts of green tea, rosemary, milk thistle, and sage were extracted using 100 ml of boiling water as a solvent, with ultrasonication employed for 20 min. Taurine, vit. C, and their combination were added to the extracts. The antioxidant properties, polyphenol, and flavonoid content were evaluated. The results demonstrated that the low-dose herbal tea combined with taurine and vit. C exhibited higher antioxidant activity compared to high-dose tea. Notably, the combination of taurine and vit. C showed the strongest synergistic effect. The addition of vit. C to these combinations eliminated any antagonism and resulted in a robust synergistic effect. The optimal conditions for enhancing antioxidant properties were determined as follows: an herbal type of 0.030 ≈ 0 (sage), vit. C concentration of 0.045 g/100 ml, and taurine concentration of 0.179 g/100 ml. The measured responses for reducing power, DPPH, and ABTS were 0.152 μg vit. C equivalent/ml, 67.778 %, and 87.630 %, respectively. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing the antioxidant properties of herbal beverages through the synergistic combinations of taurine and vit. C. By employing proper preparation techniques and including taurine and vit. C, the antioxidant capacity of these beverages can be significantly improved, potentially offering health benefits against degenerative diseases.

A Reciprocal Relationship between Oxidative Stress, Antioxidants, and Cancer: A Review

Oxidative stress is a defense mechanism that occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive metabolites and free radicals and the antioxidants' ability to eliminate them. Reactive metabolites are free radicals referred to as oxidants or reactive oxygen species (ROS). Cells are harmed by this imbalance, which may influence the entire body. When the intra- and extracellular environmental circumstances in cells change, ROS is essential for stimulating the corresponding signaling pathways. All aspects of carcinogenesis, including prevention and treatment, are tightly associated with reactive species, particularly ROS. Numerous tumor suppressor genes and proto-oncogenes are deregulated by ROS, which also modify several cellular signaling pathways. However, most chemotherapy drugs and even radiation therapy dramatically raise the ROS concentrations in the tumor microenvironment. Antioxidants cause programmed cell death, which is used in cancer treatment; yet people receiving chemotherapy benefit from antioxidants. Nevertheless, the exact processes underlying this anticancer action remain unclear. Many studies carried out in laboratories and on animals revealed high concentrations of exogenic antioxidants, that inhibit the forms of free radical injury linked with the formation of cancer. There haven't been many human clinical trials looking into the potential of dietary supplementation to reduce the risk of cancer development or death. Since there have been studies on the advantages and downsides of antioxidants in the treatment of cancer, several considerations need to be deemed before administering antioxidant supplements. In conclusion, little is known about the mechanism underlying antioxidant effect in cancer treatment.

Cooling the high temperature nutrition solution to improve growth, yield and water productivity of hydroponic red lettuce (Lactuca sativa L Var Red rapids) in a tropical location

Red lettuce is preferred because of its high nutritional, vitamin, and antioxidant contents. Hydroponic cultivation has been known to successfully improve the quality and productivity of red lettuce. But the efforts to increase the productivity of hydroponic red lettuce face constraints of high temperatures in the tropics. The aim of this study was to compare the growth, yield, and water productivity of red lettuce in three hydroponic systems namely wick, floating raft, and dry systems by controlling the temperature of the nutrient solutions using protected nutrient containers. The experimental design of randomized complete block split plots with the main plots of the nutrient containers which consisted of three levels: Refrigerated container, styrofoam-insulated container, and bare bucket container in which the nutrient solution was delivered to plants in three separated gutters as the cultivation beds, then recirculated back to the corresponding nutrient container. The secondary plot is hydroponic systems including three systems namely wick, floating raft, and dry systems. The blocks were the arrangement of plants according to the flow direction of the nutrient solution, namely upstream, middle and downstream in each gutter. Each experimental unit was represented by 3 plants. Data sets were analyzed by using analysis of variance and followed by LSD multiple comparisons at the 5% level. The results showed that the temperature of the nutrient solution controlled by the three containers had a significant effect on all observed plant parameters. Meanwhile, the hydroponic systems and the blocks had no significant effect. The use of Refrigerated container showed the best performance in improving the growth, yield, and water productivity of the red lettuce.

Exploring the interplay between diet and oral inflammation

The relationship between diet and oral inflammation is intricate and significant, influencing overall periodontal health through various mechanisms. Nutritional factors such as vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds play pivotal roles in either exacerbating or mitigating inflammatory processes in the oral cavity. Vitamin C, essential for collagen synthesis and tissue repair, along with calcium, critical for bone health, are key nutrients that support periodontal health by reducing susceptibility to gingival inflammation and periodontitis. Polyphenols, abundant in fruits, vegetables, and tea, exhibit strong anti-inflammatory properties that protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in oral tissues. Dietary patterns also have a profound impact on oral health. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, has been associated with lower levels of periodontal inflammation due to its high content of antioxidants and polyphenols. Conversely, the Western diet, characterized by high consumption of refined carbohydrates, sugars, and saturated fats, is linked to increased periodontal disease risk, promoting hyperglycemia and insulin resistance that exacerbate inflammatory responses. Vegetarian and plant-based diets, which emphasize the intake of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich foods, are associated with better periodontal health markers, including lower bleeding on probing and reduced periodontal pocket depth. Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients are crucial in combating oxidative stress and reducing inflammation, essential for maintaining oral health. Vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, omega-3 fatty acids, and green tea polyphenols are particularly beneficial, reducing oxidative damage and inflammation in periodontal tissues. Dietary strategies incorporating these nutrients effectively support oral health and can be part of a comprehensive approach to preventing and managing periodontal disease. Diet plays a critical role in oral health, influencing periodontal inflammation through specific nutrients and overall dietary patterns. Emphasizing the intake of antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory foods, while minimizing harmful dietary components, is fundamental in promoting and maintaining periodontal health.

Novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying anti-nociceptive effect of myricitrin against reserpine-induced fibromyalgia model in rats: Implication of SIRT1 and miRNAs

Ethnopharmacological relevanceManilkara zapota (L.) P. Royen, also termed sapodilla or chikoo, is a significant plant in ethnomedicine because of its long history of traditional medical applications. In diverse cultures, sapodilla is believed to protect against oxidative stress, inflammation, and some chronic diseases because of its high antioxidant content. The naturally occurring antioxidant myricitrin (MYR) flavonoid is primarily found in the leaves and other plant parts of sapodilla and it is well-known for having therapeutic qualities and possible health advantages. Aim of the studyTo appraise the possible impact of MYR on a rat model of reserpine-induced fibromyalgia (FM) and explore its mechanism of action. Materials and methodsIsolation and identification of MYR with more than 99% purity from Manilkara zapota leaves were primarily done and confirmed through chromatographic and spectrophotometric techniques. To develop FM model, reserpine (RSP) was injected daily (1 mg/kg, s.c.) for three successive days. Then, MYR (10 mg/kg, i.p.) and pregabalin (PGB, 30 mg/kg, p.o.) were given daily for another five days. Behavioral changes were assessed through open field test (OFT), hot plate test, and forced swimming test (FST). Further analyses of different brain parameters and signaling pathways were performed to assess monoamines levels, oxidative stress, inflammatory response, apoptotic changes as well as silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) and micro RNAs (miRNAs) expressions. ResultsFrom High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis, the methanol extract of sapodilla leaves contains 166.17 μg/ml of MYR. Results of behavioral tests showed a significant improvement in RSP-induced nociceptive stimulation, reduced locomotion and exploration and depressive-like behavior by MYR. Biochemical analyses showed that MYR significantly ameliorated the RSP-induced imbalance in brain monoamine neurotransmitters. In addition, MYR significantly attenuated oxidative stress elicited by RSP via up-regulating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein expressions, enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, and reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) content in brain. The RSP-provoked inflammatory response was also diminished by MYR treatment as shown by a significant decreased NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome expression along with reduced levels of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Furthermore, the anti-apoptotic activity of MYR was demonstrated by a marked rise in Bcl-2-associated X protein (BAX)/B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) ratio by lowering Bcl-2 while increasing BAX levels. In addition, MYR treatment significantly boosted the expression of SIRT1 deacetylase in RSP-treated animals. Interestingly, molecular docking showed the ability of MYR to form a stable complex in the binding site of SIRT1. Regarding miRNAs, MYR effectively ameliorated RSP-induced changes in miR-320 and miR-107 gene expressions. ConclusionOur findings afford new insights into the anti-nociceptive profile of MYR in the RSP-induced FM model in rats. The underlying mechanisms involved direct binding and activation of SIRT1 to influence different signaling cascades, including Nrf2 and NF-κB/NLRP3 together with modulation of miRNAs. However, more in-depth studies are needed before proposing MYR as a new clinically relevant drug in the management of FM.

Optimization of Oil and Tocopherol Extraction from Maqui (Aristotelia chilensis (Mol.) Stuntz) by Supercritical CO2 Procedure.

This study focused on the oil extraction from freeze-dried maqui (Aristotelia chilensis) by supercritical fluid extraction with carbon dioxide (SFE-CO2). The basic objective was to optimize the oil yield and the tocopherol concentration. A Box/Behnken experimental design was developed with three processing variables: supercritical pressure (74, 187, and 300 bar), temperature (35, 48, and 60 °C), and extracting time (30, 135, and 240 min). Multiple optimizations, based on the combination of factor levels at 274 bar, 240 min, and 60 °C, led to the highest oil yield and tocopherol values. The validation of the optimized conditions of maqui oil extraction led to an oil yield of 8% and values of 735, 53, and 97 (mg·kg-1 oil) for α-tocopherol, α-tocotrienol, and γ-tocopherol, respectively. A higher concentration of tocopherol compounds was observed when compared to the employment of the conventional extracting method. The optimized SFE-CO2 method led to an oil extract exhibiting higher Hydrophilic-Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (H-ORAC) assay and total phenol content (22 μmol Trolox equivalents·g-1 oil and 28 mg gallic acid equivalents·g-1 oil) than the oil obtained by the conventional procedure. A practical and accurate oil extraction is proposed for obtaining tocopherol-enriched oil including high concentrations of valuable lipophilic antioxidants.

Acacia saligna extract alleviates quetiapine-induced sexual toxicity in male albino rats: Insights from UPLC-MS/MS metabolite profiling, structural and PI3K/NF-κB pathway assessments

BackgroundQuetiapine (QET) abuse has increased due to its anxiolytic and hedonic effects, necessitating protective adjunct treatments. Acacia saligna (A. saligna) flowers, used in traditional medicine, have potential health benefits. AimTo investigate the protective role of A. saligna flower extract against QET-induced sexual toxicity, and to elucidate the possible underlying mechanisms through metabolomic and physiological studies. MethodsA. saligna extract was subjected to metabolite profiling via High-Resolution Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-ESI–qTOF-MS). Forty-eight adult male albino rats were assigned into six groups for 30 days. The intracavernosal pressure (ICP), semen, biochemical, hormonal, histological, genetic and Western blot (WB) analyses were determined. ResultsA. saligna extract is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, and unsaturated fatty acids. QET significantly decreased ICP and negatively affected semen parameters. A. saligna mitigated decreased sperm motility and ameliorated overexpressed proinflammatory genes in QET-55 group. A. saligna ameliorated the reduction of the antioxidant biomarkers, testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), concurrent with downregulation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) protein. A. saligna counteracted the disrupted testicular and prostatic structures revealed by histological examination. ConclusionThe extract from A. saligna, which contains a high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory chemicals, effectively mitigates sexual toxicity caused by QET. This study provided the first known explanation of the hypothesized processes behind the protective properties of A. saligna through biological, biochemical, and histological parameters. The results emphasize the potential of A. saligna as a safeguarding agent against drug-induced sexual toxicity.

Kandungan Antioksidan pada Suplemen Daun Kelor terhadap Kadar Acyl Ghrelin pada Subjek Obesitas

This study aims to explore the effect of antioxidant content on acyl ghrelin levels in obese subjects. This research method is a systematic literature review approach by searching for journal articles in the PubMed database. Inclusion criteria were articles published in the last 10 years using RCT methods on experimental animals and humans with obese nutritional status and providing Moringa leaf intervention. The research results showed that of 69 articles identified, only 7 articles met the inclusion criteria. The findings obtained indicate that the high antioxidant content of Moringa leaves has great potential as a functional food source and is beneficial for body health. The conclusion of the research is that the antioxidant content in Moringa leaves has an effect on obesity and still needs to be studied for its effect on acyl ghrelin. Keywords: Acyl ghrelin, Moringa Leaf Supplements, Antioxidants, Obesity

Enhanced Antioxidant Extraction from Lonicerae japonicae Flos Based on a Novel Optimization Strategy with Tailored Deep Eutectic Solvents

Lonicerae japonicae Flos (LJF) is a natural plant containing abundant antioxidant ingredients. In order to extract more antioxidants from LJF, in this study, a novel strategy was proposed for optimizing the extraction factor level by response surface methodology with a tailored deep eutectic solvent (DES) as the extraction solvent and antioxidant ability as the evaluation index. After optimizing the composition of DES and the extraction condition, the extracts obtained by our proposed method yielded better antioxidant ability (229.1–249.1 μmol TE/g DW) and higher antioxidant contents (34.2–36.5 mg GAE/g DW for total phenolics and 119.6–123.0 mg RE/g DW for total flavonoids) from LJF in 5 min without organic solvent consumption that were significantly superior to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia extraction method. The K-T solvation parameter and a scanning electron microscope were adopted to explore the extraction mechanism, and the results showed that the polarity and damage effect on plant cells of DES were crucial for the extraction of antioxidants. In addition, after combining the HPLC fingerprint and partial least squares model, chlorogenic acid, rutin, and 3,5-O-Dicaffeoylquinic acid were screened as the antioxidant Q-markers of LJF. This work demonstrates that an optimization strategy based on antioxidant ability and tailored DES has the potential to extract more antioxidants from natural plants.