Highest Phenolic Content Research Articles

Impact of Organic Agriculture on the Quality of Grapes (Syrah and Tempranillo) Harvested in Guanajuato, Mexico: Relationship Between Soil Elemental Profile and Grape Bioactive Properties

Viticulture has migrated to organic management to reduce environmental impact. Grapes harvested in organic vineyards (ORGs) could have a better polyphenol profile than conventional vineyards (CONs). The objective was to evaluate the relationship between agricultural management, elemental soil profile, and grape bioactive compounds (var. Syrah and Tempranillo). Soil components were determined from CON and ORG vineyards; they were correlated with bioactive compounds in grape skin and seed through principal component analysis (PCA). The ORG vineyard presented higher moisture (4.50–5.72%), clay (31.70–40.55%), organic matter (OM) (9.44–11.01%), P (108.72–122.16 mg/kg), N (0.27 mg/kg), and oxides (Fe2O3, SiO2, MnO, TiO2) in soil and phenolic compounds (myricetin, quercetin, resveratrol, ellagic acid, others) and antioxidant capacity in grape skin and seed. Regarding PCA (>74.20% of variance), the first component showed positive correlations (>0.60) between pH, moisture, clay, and soil oxides (MgO, K2O, Al2O3), which favored biosynthesis in grape skin and seed phenols (catechin, gallic acid, vanillic acid, and rutin). The second component showed positive correlations between OM, silt, soil oxides, antioxidant capacity, and phenols in grape skin and seed. Finally, the edaphic conditions of the ORG vineyard allowed for one to obtain optimal grapes for winemaking due to their higher phenol content.

Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial, and Enzyme Inhibitory Properties of Elaeagnus angustifolia L.

Research on natural antioxidants derived from plants has surged due to their potential health benefits. In the current study, the chemical composition, enzyme inhibitory activity, and antimicrobial effects of the Elaeagnus angustifolia L. plant, including leaves, flowers, and flower stalk (FS) extracts, were analyzed. A total of 28 compounds were identified across the different plant parts, with 24 in flowers (F), 9 in FSs, and 14 in leaves (L). The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was evaluated using the disk diffusion method against two Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus) and two Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined as 3.13-12.50mg/mL. The measured zone diameters were also in the range of 5-8mm. The results indicated that the methanol extracts exhibited significant antimicrobial properties. Additionally, the extracts demonstrated strong inhibition of cholinesterases (acetylcholinesterase [AChE]: 11.14±0.11-18.11±0.12µg/mL; butyrylcholinesterase [BChE]: 32.54±0.55-44.61±0.17µg/mL) and moderate inhibition against α-glycosidase and tyrosinase enzymes. Moreover, the molecular docking interaction of trans-ferulic, shikimic, and vanillic acids, the most abundant phenolic compounds in the extracts, with AChE, BChE, α-glycosidase, and tyrosinase, was assessed using AutoDock Vina software. E. angustifolia L. possesses a high phenolic content and exhibits significant antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory capabilities, which may contribute to its extensive utilization in food and traditional medicine.

Nano Silicon Modulates Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Capacities of Ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi) Under Water Deficit Condition.

Ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi) is an important spice in the food industry, as a well as a medicinal plant with remarkable antioxidant properties. In this study, its essential oil content, chemical composition, flavonoid content, phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity were evaluated under three irrigation regimes (50, 70, and 90% field capacity) and different amounts of nano silicon (0, 1.5, and 3 mM) in ten populations of ajowan. Based on the GC-MS analysis, thymol, carvacrol, p-cymene, and γ-terpinene were determined as the main components of the oil. The thymol content ranged from 34.16% in the Ardabil population (irrigation at 50% and nano silicon at 1.5 mM) to 65.71% in the Khorbir population (without nano silicon and irrigation at 50%). The highest phenolic content was in Khormo with irrigation at 90% and without nano silicon (172.3 mg TAE/g DW), while the lowest was found in Hamedan (irrigation at 50% and without nano silicon (7.2 mg TAE/g DW)). Irrigation at 50% and no nano silicon treatment led to an increase in total flavonoids in Ardabil (46.786 mg QUE/g DW). The antioxidant activity of ajowan was evaluated using the DPPH assay. Accordingly, the highest antioxidant capacity was observed in Khormo (irrigation at 90% without nano silicon; 4126 µg/mL). Moreover, the highest thymol content was observed in the Khorbir population with irrigation at 50% and without nano silicon treatment. Furthermore, correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) provide new insights into the production of ajowan from their substrates under nano silicon treatment and water deficit conditions. Finally, the results revealed information on how to improve the desired essential oil profile and antioxidant capacity of extracts for industrial producers.

Fabrication of Algogenic Zinc Nanoparticles and Assessment of Their Biomimetics Attributes and Potential Antibacterial Efficacy Against Fish Pathogens

This study investigates the fabrication of algogenic zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs), examining their biomimetic properties and potential antibacterial effectiveness against fish pathogens. The rising incidence of antibiotic resistance in aquaculture demands innovative strategies for disease management, highlighting the importance of developing biocompatible and effective antimicrobial agents. In this context, ZnNPs were synthesized using Pediastrum boryanum microalgal extract as the reducing and capping agent. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed spherical and tetragonal particles with sizes ranging from 32.84 to 26.87 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) demonstrated distinctive functional groups in the algal extracts and ZnNPs. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) showed pure crystallinity of the fabricated ZnNPs with an average crystalline size of 57.97 nm. The algal extract had high total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) contents (TPC: 53.83 and TFC: 12.44 mg QE/g, respectively). The obtained ZnNPs retained a considerable amount of TPC and TFC (7.92 and 5.31 mg/g, respectively). The microalgal extract and ZnNPs exhibited considerable antioxidant capacity in the 2,2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. In addition, they elicited antibacterial efficacy against several bacterial pathogens in fish in a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay. Brine shrimp lethality assay (BSLA) revealed higher potential cytotoxicity of biosynthesized ZnNPs at 29.28 μg/mL compared to that of the algal extracts at 51.56 μg/mL. These findings highlight the potential of P. boryanum as a green factory for the nanofabrication of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) and as a promising clinical candidate for fish medicine.

Phytochemical Profiling and Biological Activities of Nigella sativa Vinegar Extract: An Insight Into Hypoglycemic Potential Using In Vivo and In Silico Studies.

The current study was conducted to characterize the vinegar extract of Nigella sativa and evaluate its biological activities using in vitro and in vivo studies. The N. sativa extract (NSE) was prepared by macerating seeds in a mixture of water and synthetic vinegar(1:10). The antioxidant potential of NSE was assessed, revealing high total phenolic contents (431.66mg/100g), total flavonoid contents (73.45mg/100g), total antioxidant capacity (118.55mg/100g), and strong radical scavenging potential (89.67%). The anticancer activity of NSE showed insignificant cytotoxic effects on HepG2 liver cell lines (96.61±3.00). An in vivo animal trial was performed, and NSE significantly (p<0.05) lowered the blood glucose (-47.71%), total cholesterol (-37.86%), total glycerides (39.42%), low-density lipoproteins (-29.36%), and very low-density lipoproteins (-30.60%), while increasing the high-density lipoproteins (26.92%) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. GC-MS analysis of NSE revealed a diverse range of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, phenolics, and flavonoids. In silico studies using molecular docking simulations showed that pyrrolo[1,2-a] pyrazine-1,4-dione, hexahydro-3-(2-methylpropyl) demonstrated a strong inhibitory action (6.6kcal/mol) against alpha-amylase enzyme. These findings suggest that NSE is a promising natural remedy for managing diabetes and related metabolic disorders, and its potential as a nutraceutical ingredient in functional food applications is significant.

Development of instant jelly powder from elephant foot yam (Amorphophallus oncophyllus) and roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) as a functional food for diabetes mellitus patients

Elephant foot yam (Amorphophallus oncophyllus) is one of Indonesia’s most widely grown agricultural commodities. It has a myriad of benefits, especially as a functional food for people with diabetes mellitus. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is a flowering herb rich in polyphenols and anthocyanins with antioxidant and antidiabetic potentials. Therefore, the aim of this study was to create a functional food that is suitable for diabetes mellitus patients. In this study, a functional food product in the form of instant jelly powder was developed from the yam and roselle. Glucomannan extract, obtained from the yam flour by leaching, was tested using a Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometer (qualitative) and determined the content. Three formulas with different amounts of glucomannan and iota carrageenan were developed to determine the most optimized formulation. The most optimized formulation was determined based on organoleptic characteristics and the results of the gel strength and hardness, total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activity tests using the ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3 ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assay. Glucomannan extraction produced a 92.40% yield, with 46.32% glucomannan content. The spectrophotometric analysis indicated the presence of glucomannan in the extract, and further tests showed it increased with the decrease in gel strength and hardness. It was found that formula I produced the best jelly texture with a total phenolic content of 0.30% GAE (formula II 0.13% GAE; formula III 0.27% GAE) and an ABTS radical scavenging activity of 90.51% (II: 73.49%; III: 88.16%). In conclusion, formula I containing 6.35 g of carrageenan, 2.12 g glucomannan, 1.5 g roselle, 0.03 g citric acid, and 0.003 g sucralose has the best composition to create the most elastic and firm jelly texture with the highest phenolic content and radical scavenging activity.

Bolanthus turcicus: a promising antidiabetic with in-vitro antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory and antiadipogenic activities.

It is crucial to investigate new anti-diabetic agents and therapeutic approaches targeting molecules in potential signaling pathways for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The objective of the study was to investigate the total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase inhibitory activities of Bolanthus turcicus (B. turcicus), as well as their cytotoxic, anti-adipogenic, anti-diabetic, apoptotic, and anti-migration potential on adipocytes. B. turcicus samples were extracted with methanol (MeOH), ethyl acetate (EA) and aqueous (Aq) solvents. The MeOH extract had the highest phenolic content (81.14mg GAE/g), followed by EA (74.93mg GAE/g) and Aq (51.09mg GAE/g). All extracts exhibited dose-dependent increases in α-glycosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activity. B. turcicus extracts showed cytotoxic effect on adipocytes with IC50 values of MeOH (141.0µg/mL) < Aq (155.3µg/mL) < EA (199.5µg/mL). Furthermore, B. turcicus extracts reduced lipid droplet formation and adipocyte diameter size. All extracts altered cell morphology to resemble fibroblasts. B. turcicus extracts exhibited anti-migratory effect delaying wound healing for up to 96h. The B. turcicus extracts showed a pro-apoptotic effects on adipocytes by increasing Caspase-3 enzyme activity and the population of DAPI-positive cell with apoptotic nuclear-morphology. B. turcicus extracts upregulated the expression of the Glut-4 gene at the mRNA, protein and intracellular level in adipocytes. In conclusion, our findings indicate that B. turcicus not only exhibits strong antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibitory activities but also exerts significant anti-adipogenic and pro-apoptotic effects in adipocytes, thereby providing a comprehensive mechanism through which it may contribute to the management of T2DM. These effects highlight the potential of B. turcicus as a therapeutic agent for improving glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity.

Neuroprotective effects of honey against traumatic brain injury-induced anxiety and motor function impairment in Wistar rats

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) poses a significant risk to neurological function, primarily attributable to oxidative stress. Our hypothesis suggests that honey, renowned for its high phenol and flavonoid content, exerts neuroprotective effects by mitigating oxidative stress. This study aims to assess honey's potential as an innovative therapeutic agent in a TBI rat model, primarily focusing on its impact on behaviour, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzyme activity. A total of twenty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: Group A (control), Group B (honey-treated), Group C (TBI-induced), and Group D (honey-treated TBI). We conducted comprehensive assessments using the Rotarod and Elevated Plus Maze tests to evaluate behaviour. Additionally, biochemical evaluations included quantifying lipid peroxidation levels and conducting a detailed analysis of antioxidant enzyme status, specifically emphasising the activity of glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT). Our findings indicated that the TBI model rats displayed impaired motor coordination, heightened anxiety-like behaviour, and elevated lipid peroxidation levels. Intriguingly, the honey treatment effectively reversed these behavioural deficits while concurrently reducing lipid peroxidation. Notably, honey treatment significantly augmented the activity of antioxidant enzymes (CAT and GSH); there was a significant increase in CAT activity compared to GSH activity in the treated TBI model. This study supports our hypothesis, demonstrating that honey is a potent neuroprotective agent that counteracts TBI-induced oxidative stress. Our investigation elucidates honey's capacity to alleviate neurobehavioral impairments and mitigate oxidative damage within a TBI model. These results underscore honey's significance as an innovative and promising therapeutic approach in TBI management, emphasizing its potential to enhance neurological outcomes and improve the overall well-being of individuals affected by TBI.

Effects of Globularia cordifolia on colon cancer cells: antioxidant activity, inflammatory cytokine analysis and molecular docking studies.

The present study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of Globularia cordifolia L. The plant material was collected and extracted using the maceration method. Antioxidant activities were assessed through DPPH (i.e. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and iron chelation assays, whereas phenolic and flavonoid contents were measured using spectrophotometric methods. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis was performed to identify biologically active compounds. The cytotoxic effect on colon cancer cells was evaluated using MTT [i.e. 2,3-bis-(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide] assays, and inflammatory cytokine levels were measured through an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Molecular docking studies investigated the interactions of bioactive compounds with the 4UYA protein, and ADME (i.e. absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity) modeling predicted their toxicity. The study revealed that the extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity with a median 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 39.48 ± 2.15 μg mL-1 in the DPPH assay and an effective iron chelation capacity with an IC50 value of 4.28 ± 0.19 mg mL-1. The total phenolic content was 662.51 ± 20.95 mg gallic acid equivalents g-1, and the flavonoid content was 114.99 ± 0.51 mg quercetin equivalents g-1, demonstrating the extract's richness in phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Significant antiproliferative effects were observed in colon cancer cells at a dose of 250 μg mL-1. Inflammatory cytokine analysis indicated a reduction in pro-inflammatory responses. Molecular docking studies showed strong binding affinities between the bioactive compounds and the 4UYA protein, suggesting the mechanisms of action. The findings indicate that G. cordifolia extract exhibits strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties, making it a promising biomolecular agent for colon cancer therapy. The high phenolic and flavonoid contents, combined with the bioactive compounds' interactions with key molecular targets, underscore its potential therapeutic applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Capacities at Different Stages of Berangan Banana Ripening

Bananas are widely consumed for their nutritional value, but the optimal ripening stage for maximizing health benefits remain unclear. This study investigated the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacities of Berangan bananas across seven ripening stages. TPC was measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay with gallic acid as the standard, while antioxidant activities were evaluated via 2,2-diphenyl1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) assays, with ascorbic acid as the standard. Results indicated that stages 1 (8.543±0.268 mg GAE/g), 2 (8.646±0.034 mg GAE/g), and 7 (8.99±0.059 mg GAE/g) had the highest phenolic content, while stage 5 had the lowest (6.756±0.069 mg GAE/g). The strongest DPPH scavenging activity was observed at stages 5 and 6, with IC50 values of 25.92 μg/mL and 25.28 μg/mL, respectively. The highest CUPRAC value was found at stage 2, measuring 34.027±0.027 mg AAE/g at 100 μg/mL. These findings suggest that bananas consumed at different ripening stages offer varying antioxidant benefits, which could influence dietary choices for optimal health. This study highlights the therapeutic potential of bananas as a functional food, providing natural antioxidants that beneficial consumer health and nutrition. Further research may expand on these findings to explore therapeutic applications of banana antioxidants.

Efficient Separation of Poplar Lignin Using a New Carboxylic Acid-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents - Choline Chloride/Malonic Acid.

Separation of lignin by pretreatment is an important step in biomass refining. This study investigated how a novel dicarboxylic acid-based deep eutectic solvent (DES) - choline chloride (ChCl)/malonic acid (MA) - affected the process of separating lignin from poplar. At 140 °C for 3.0 h, with a ChCl: MA molar ratio of 1: 3.5, the ideal pretreatment conditions were met, and 91.8 % lignin was obtained. Even after five DES reuses, the consistent and effective separation efficiency of 77.9 % remains unchanged. The hydrolysate contained 92.4 % of the recovered lignin, with a purity of 94.6 %. Moreover, the regenerated lignin obtained through the new DES pretreatment exhibited a high phenolic hydroxyl content of 1.9 mmol g-1 and a low polydispersity index of 1.4. The results showed efficient and selective separation of lignin using the new binary carboxylic acid-based DES pretreatment was achieved. This research offers a novel approach to effectively separate wood fiber biomass and extract valuable lignin.

Antifungal Activity of Ethanolic Extracts from Aeroponically Grown Cape Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) with LED Lights and In Vitro Habituated Roots.

Green mold caused by Penicillium digitatum is a major post-harvest disease in citrus fruits. Therefore, the search for sustainable and low-environmental-impact alternatives for the management of these fungi is of utmost importance. Physalis peruviana L. is a native fruit of the Peruvian Andes with rich bioactive components present throughout the plant. Its antifungal activity stands out, attributed to its high content of phenols, coupled with its antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial activity. Plants were cultivated aeroponically under a combination of red, mixed (50% red, 50% blue), and green LED lights. Additionally, in vitro-habituated roots free of plant growth regulators were also cultivated. An ethanol extraction assisted by ultrasound for 30 min followed by maceration for 72 h was performed, and the extract was filtrated and evaporated in an extraction hood. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH method, total polyphenols were measured using the Folin-Ciocâlteu method, and an antifungal test in vitro by the poisoned food method was conducted against P. digitatum. In vitro assays revealed that extracts from leaves, roots, and fruits exerted a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of P. digitatum, as evidenced by a reduction in colony radius when cultured employing the poisoned food method, with IC50 values of 62.17, 53.15, and 286.34 µg·mL-1, respectively, compared to 2297 µg·mL-1 for the commercial fungicide Captan 50WP. Although leaves had higher total polyphenol content, no direct correlation with antifungal activity was found. Colored LEDs enhanced phenol accumulation, antioxidant capacity, and antifungal properties in plant parts compared to white LEDs and in vitro roots. These findings suggest P. peruviana as a new alternative biological production system to provide natural compounds for post-harvest disease management.

Anticholinesterase Activity and Bioactive Compound Profiling of Six Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) Varieties.

Hops (Humulus lupulus L.) are widely recognized for their use in brewing, but they also possess significant pharmacological properties due to their rich bioactive compounds, with many varieties exhibiting diverse characteristics. This study investigates the chemical composition and biological activities of extracts from six hop varieties, focusing on quantifying xanthohumol and lupulone using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Total Phenolic Content (TPC) analysis. The hop varieties demonstrated significant variability in bioactive compound concentrations, with Aurora showing the highest xanthohumol (0.665 mg/g) and Zwiegniowski the highest lupulone (9.228 mg/g). TPC analysis revealed Aurora also had the highest phenolic content (22.47 mg GAE/g). Antioxidant activities were evaluated using DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, and FRAP assays, with Aurora and Oregon Fuggle displaying the most potent capacities. Aurora, in particular, showed the highest activity across multiple assays, including significant acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and tyrosinase inhibition, with IC50 values of 24.39 mg/mL, 20.38 mg/mL, and 9.37 mg/mL, respectively. The chelating activity was also assessed, with Apolon demonstrating the strongest metal ion binding capacity (IC50 = 1.04 mg/mL). Additionally, Aurora exhibited the most effective hyaluronidase inhibition (IC50 = 10.27 mg/mL), highlighting its potential for anti-inflammatory applications. The results underscore the influence of genetic and environmental factors on the bioactive compound profiles of hop varieties and their biological activity offering promising avenues for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. However, further studies are needed to fully understand the potential interactions between hop cones components.

Bioactive Content and Antioxidant Properties of Spray-Dried Microencapsulates of Peumus boldus M. Leaf Extracts.

Boldo (Peumus boldus M.), an plant endemic to central and southern Chile, has been recognized as a medicinal herb, especially its leaves that are rich in bioactive compounds with beneficial properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, sedative, and antimicrobial properties, among others. This research aimed to evaluate solid-liquid extraction using a response surface methodology to obtain phenolic-rich extracts from boldo leaves and to encapsulate them through spray-drying. A Box-Behnken design was applied to optimize extraction process variables (temperature, time, and solid-liquid ratio). Extracts were characterized in terms of their total phenolic content, with the maximum value obtained being 37.78 mg GAE/g using extraction conditions of a temperature of 100 °C, a time of 60 min, and a solid-liquid ratio of 1:100. The developed microcapsules containing the optimal boldo extracts were characterized (moisture, water activity, scanning electron microscopy, zeta potential, FTIR, total phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity, and phenolic profile by HPLC-DAD), highlighting their high phenolic content (5.38-5.49 mg GAE/g) and antioxidant capacity, as well as their bioactive content in terms of catechin (445 ± 37 mg/100 g), pyrogallol (304 ± 24 mg/100 g), and epigallocatechin (156 ± 12 mg/100 g). Overall, this study revealed an efficient technique by which to isolate and stabilize bioactive compounds from boldo leaves, with the microcapsules being promising candidates as high added-value ingredients.

Evaluation of the Antioxidant Properties of Black Acacia (Acacia mearnsii) Tannin in Vulcanized Natural Rubber Using Different Vulcanization Systems

Given the growing interest of the rubber industry in seeking alternatives that contribute to environmental sustainability, this work aims to present a study of the mechanical, thermal, and structural properties of natural rubber composites using tannin extracted from Acacia mearnsii as an antioxidant agent. Tannin is a natural and biodegradable product, rich in polyphenols and known for its antioxidant properties. The analyses assessed the effectiveness of incorporating tannins (0, 1, 1.5, and 2 parts per hundred rubber) into sulfur-crosslinked natural rubber composites using a binary accelerator system across three distinct vulcanization schemes: conventional, semi-efficient, and efficient. Initially, tannin characterization tests were conducted, revealing characteristic polyphenol bands of proanthocyanidin catechins, a high total phenolic content, and a substantial reduction in antioxidant activity. These findings highlight the significant antioxidant potential of tannins, particularly for industrial and biological applications. The analyses of the characteristics of natural rubber composites with tannin incorporation indicated that the type of vulcanization process directly affects the antioxidant action of the plant tannin, with the tannins being most effective in the efficient system due to the formation of monosulfidic and disulfidic bonds. Furthermore, the incorporation of tannin did not compromise the physical and chemical properties of the materials, highlighting it as a viable additive for the rubber industry.

Phytochemical characterization and evaluation of the biological activity spectrum of ethanolic fruit extract of Garcinia indica: a less explored plant of Ayurveda.

Garcinia indica (commonly known as kokum) has been employed in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine since ancient times. Every part of the plant has its own set of advantages and applications. Therefore, the present evaluates the phytochemical composition and biological activity spectrum of the ethanolic fruit extract of G. indica. Ethanolic extract of fruits of G.indica (GIFEE) underwent TPC and TFC quantification, with bioactive components characterized via GC-MS and HPLC. The disc diffusion method was used for assessing the antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus) and Escherichia coli (E.coli). GIFEE was employed to assess the cytotoxic impact on MDA-MB-231 cells through the utilisation of the MTT. The administered dosage of the extract ranged from 10-45 μg/mL. TPC and TFC of GIFEE were determined to be 255.09±4.7 mg GAE/g and 184.83±3.2 mg QE/g dry mass of the extract, respectively. Furthermore, GIFEE demonstrated antibacterial activity against S.aureus and a strong DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50=51.46 μg/mL). GIFEE induced strong anticancer activity (IC50=20 μg/mL) against the human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231, while had no discernible impact on normal human HEK-293 cells. By virtue of a high phenolic and flavonoid content and possessing potent anticancer activity profile invitro, GIFEE appears to be a promising candidate for future and further testing invitro and invivo as an effective 'adjunct'/complementary medicine in cancer chemotherapy regimens.

Chemical profile, antioxidant, antifungal, and cytotoxic activities of propolis from the stingless bee Tetragona clavipes.

Propolis is derived from plant resin and bees' salivary secretions, are commonly used in folk medicine. Studies on propolis from stingless bees have increased in recent years, highlighting their relevance due to the variety of species and the bioactive components. However, scientific records confirming these activities in species occurring in Brazil are still scarce. In that context, this study aims to determine the chemical profile and the antioxidant, antifungal, and cytotoxic activities of the stingless bees Tetragona clavipes propolis. The hydroalcoholic extract was prepared, and its chemical profile was determined by Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry combined with a direct infusion electrospray ionization. Total polyphenols and flavonoid content were determined by colorimetric methods. We determined the antioxidant activity by the ability to scavenge the free radicals 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid). The antifungal activity was evaluated by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration against Aspergillus fumigatus, Trichophyton rubrum, Candida albicans, and Candida parapisilosis. The results revealed high contents of total phenolics and promising antioxidant and antifungal activities. T. clavipes propolis from the rainy season showed better antioxidant and antifungal activities and higher content of flavonoids, with less variability of chemical species. The extracts exhibited fungistatic activity for C. albicans, C. parapisilosis, and A. fumigatus and fungicide for T. rubrum. Additionally, a sample collected during the rainy season demonstrated synergism with fluconazole and amphotericin B for T. rubrum and additivity for C. albicans and C. parapisilosis. In summary, the results of T. clavipes propolis revealed elevated levels of total phenolics, indicating its potential as a rich source of bioactive compounds, significant antioxidant activity, and promising antifungal activity against common pathogenic fungi. These findings contribute to our understanding of the therapeutic potential of T. clavipes propolis and provide a basis for further research and development of natural products for various applications in medicine and healthcare.

Contact toxicity and feeding deterrent activity of Dennettia tripetala Bak. and Jatropha curcas L. leaf extracts against Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith

BackgroundMaize (Zea mays L.) is an important annual cereal crop with nutritional benefits, but its production is constrained by activities of insect pests. The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is one of the important economic pests that limits the production of maize, causing several damages on maize fields. Synthetic insecticides are commonly used to manage fall armyworm, but they have undesirable side effects on human and the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the contact toxicity and feeding deterrent activities of ethyl acetate and methanol leaf extracts of Dennettia tripetala and Jatropha curcas against fall armyworm.ResultsIn the contact toxicity of Dennettia tripetala and Jatropha curcas extracts, larval mortality increased with an increase in exposure time and concentrations. The extracts possessed significant contact insecticidal effects that ranged between 20.00 ± 13.94% and 100.00 ± 0.00%. Also, in the feeding deterrent activity test, extracts revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in larva mortality and duration. Larva duration ranged from 56.67 ± 14.91% to 100.00 ± 0.00%. The larval stages of S. fruiperda that were artificially treated with the concentrations of the extract were shorter than those that were exposed to the control treatments. The methanol leaves extracts of Dennettia tripetala and Jatropha curcas showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the pupal mortality and pupal weight among the treatments. Jatropha curcas ethyl acetate and Jatropha curcas methanol extracts had high flavonoid content, and tannin and phenol content was higher in Dennettia tripetala ethyl and methanol extracts.ConclusionsFrom this study, ethyl acetate and methanol leaf extracts (75% and 100% v/v concentrations) are effective as contact and stomach poisons against fall armyworm and suitable replacements for synthetic pesticides.

Unlocking the Hidden Potential of Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.): New Insights into Phenolics, Terpenes, and Antioxidants of Mediterranean Cultivars.

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn. syn. Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is a Mediterranean aromatic species used both as an official herb and as a spice. Different cultivars may exhibit diverse phytochemical compositions, making a comprehensive chemical characterization pivotal for a targeted selection of valuable cultivars. This study aimed to characterize and compare the phenolic and terpene composition and content of leaf extracts of six Mediterranean rosemary cultivars: 'Alba', 'Arp' 'Ginger', 'Gorizia', 'Tuscan Blue', and 'Roseus'. HPLC-DAD analysis revealed a similar phenolic composition in all the cultivars, but quantitative differences were observed. The main compounds were carnosic acid derivatives, flavonoids (e.g., luteolin, apigenin, and quercetin glucosides), rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, and other hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. The highest phenolic content was found in 'Alba', with a predominance of carnosic acid derivatives, whereas the lowest was found in 'Ginger' and 'Gorizia'. The GC-MS analysis evidenced quantitative differences among the cultivars. Particularly, 'Alba' contained the highest terpene content, whereas 'Arp' and 'Gorizia' showed the lowest values. Regarding the antioxidant activity, 'Alba' exhibited the highest values as regards phenols, while for terpenes, the highest ones were obtained for 'Ginger' and 'Tuscan Blue'. Significant Pearson correlations were obtained between the total phenol/terpene content and the antioxidant activity. The chemical characterization of these cultivars provides relevant information to produce the rosemary phytocomplexes, finding multiple industrial applications.

Assessing Syzygium aromaticum: From Chemical Profiling to Antioxidant, Antistaphylococcal, and Biocompatibility Attributes.

Staphylococcal infections challenge current treatments due to adverse effects and drug resistance, prompting the exploration of plant-derived compounds for their promising properties. This study aimed to analyze Syzygium aromaticum essential oil, aqueousand ethyl acetate extracts for antioxidant and antistaphylococcal effects against sensitive and resistant clinical isolates. Erythrocytes were used as model cells for biocompatibility. The SA-EO was extracted via hydrodistillation and compounds were identified using GC-MS. The antioxidant activity was assessed using various tests, while antimicrobial activity was evaluated through disk diffusion and microdilution assays. Results showed Eugenol as the major compound in SA-EO. The AE exhibited high phenolic and flavonoid content. SA-EO demonstrated antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 84.63 ± 1.94 µg/mL (TAC) and 52.88 ± 1.44 µg/mL (FRAP). The AE-SA showed scavenging effects with EC50 values of 266.52 ± 50.62 µg/mL (DPPH) and 140.67 ± 44.36 μg/mL (NO). The antistaphylococcal activity revealed significant sensitivity of SA-EO with MIC and MBC values ranging from 0.316 to 1.266 mg/mL. SA-EO showed low hemolytic activity even at high concentrations. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of Syzygium aromaticum in combating multidrug-resistant bacteria and underscore its role as a source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties.