High-performance Liquid Chromatography-mass Spectrometry Analysis Research Articles

Roseoside Is a Bioactive Compound in Kirengeshoma koreana Nakai Extract with Potent In Vitro Antiviral Activity Against Hepatitis C Virus.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a pathogen that causes cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma through chronic hepatitis C. This study focused on the anti-HCV activity of a 70% ethanol extract of Kirengeshoma koreana Nakai (KKE) and its bioactive chemical constituent(s). The KKE and its n-butanol (n-BuOH) fraction induced a significant reduction in HCV RNA levels without inducing cytotoxicity. A high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis revealed the presence of roseoside in the n-butanol fraction of the KKE, which inhibited HCV RNA replication in a concentration- and time-dependent manner without exerting cytotoxicity. Consistent with in silico molecular docking analysis data, roseoside targets and inhibits HCV NS5A/B replicase. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that roseoside is a chemical constituent in KKE that interferes with HCV replication by targeting NS5A/B replicase.

Stratified nanoflower bimetallic cobalt/iron alloy derived from CoFe-MOFs as efficient peroxymonosulfate activator for antibiotics degradation: Performance, mechanism, and toxicity

Co-based metal-organic framework (Co-MOFs) derivative has gained wide attention in the field of advanced oxidative processes (AOPs). However, the degradation efficiency of single cobalt element remains suboptimal and its activation mechanism still needs to be further explored. In this study, stratified nanoflower bimetallic cobalt/iron alloys (CoFe-NC), derived from cobalt/iron bimetallic-organic frameworks (CoFe-MOFs), was synthesized via self-assembly at room temperature, hydrothermal synthesis and high-temperature carbonization processes and their performance as efficient activators of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for the degradation of antibiotics was evaluated (removal efficiency of 100 % within 40 min, k=0.0951 min−1). The excellent degradation property benefit by specific nano-flowers structure with high specific surface area (424.67 m2/g), the cycle between Co0→Co2+↔ Co3+ and Fe0→Fe2+↔Fe3+, synergistic effect of Co and Fe bimetals. Furthermore, the CoFe-NC/PMS system exhibits exceptionally high cyclic stability (over 85 % degradation efficiency after four times degradation), a wide range of pH (3−11) and resistance to background ion interference (Cl–, H2PO4–, NO3–, HCO3– and HA), and reduced toxicity of the degradation products. Degradation mechanistic studies demonstrated that the activation of PMS by CoFe-NC generated amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (SO4•−, •OH, •O2− and 1O2). Additionally, high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis identified fifteen intermediate degradation products and three possible degradation pathways were proposed. The results highlight the potential of CoFe-NC as a catalyst for antibiotic removal, providing insights into the optimization of bimetallic-organic framework for environmental applications.

Molecular properties of dissolved organic matter leached from microplastics during photoaging process

The occurrence of dissolved organic matter (DOM) derived from microplastics (MPs) and its effect on aquatic systems has attracted great interest recently. However, the photoaging effect on the molecular structure of MP-derived DOM (MP-DOM) remains unclear. This paper presents the characteristics of DOM leached from three commercial MPs, i.e., polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) under UV irradiation. With prolonged aging periods, the surface roughness and oxygen-containing groups on the surface of MPs increase as more DOM leachate is generated. Moreover, the dissolved organic carbon (DOC) content of the leached DOM from PET MPs varies from 0.52 mg/L to 2.25 mg/L, which is higher than PE and PP MPs, due to the larger increased surface reaction area and the cleavage of the benzene ring. According to the excitation-emission matrix and parallel factor analysis (EEM-PARAFAC), the plastic-derived protein/phenolic-like components (C1 and C3) in MP-DOM were changed into photo-induced humic-like components (C2), which were closely related to the intermediates during photo-oxidation. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC−MS) analysis further identified that the highest proportion of antioxidants (24.8 %∼34.6 %) was contained in MP-DOM. Plasticizers, intermediate additives, and antimicrobial agents were also detected in DOM leachate. Correlation analysis identified that the composition of leached DOM was positively correlated with the surface roughness, the carbonyl index (CI), and the chemical groups of MPs. Moreover, a partial least square structural equation model (PLS−SEM) analysis further verified that the change of morphology and the chemical structure of MPs could affect the DOM structures and fractions directly. This study provides an in-depth understanding of the composition of MP-derived DOM during the aging process, as well as a comprehensive environmental impact assessment of MPs.

Identification of bioactive compounds in Amphipterygium adstringens branch bark

Background: Cuachalalate (Amphipterygium adstringens) is one of Mexico’s most commercialised medicinal plants, and its natural populations are mainly found in this country. The high demand for stem bark (SB) has risked its survival, making it necessary to develop sustainable strategies.Aim: This study aimed to identify bioactive compounds in branch bark (BB) and evaluate their antipathogenic and antivirulence capacities.Setting: The study was conducted in the low deciduous forest (LDF) of the State of Puebla, Mexico.Methods: Bioactive metabolites in BB were profiled by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). The chemical composition of aqueous bark extracts was scrutinised by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-EM-SQ-TOF system) and molecular network analysis. The folk method’s antipathogenic capacity was determined in a burn model in mice infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Finally, the antivirulence properties of bark organic extracts were determined.Results: The BB contained masticadienoic, 3α-hydroxymasticadienoic and anacardic acids, also present in SB. The aqueous extracts showed the presence of flavonoids, catechins and saponins in both barks. The folk method using BB extracts significantly reduced mouse mortality and prevented sepsis development. This might be related to the capability of extracts to block the production of bacteria virulence factors.Conclusion: The similarity in bioactive metabolites and biological activity between SB and BB of cuachalalate suggests that using BB as a medicinal agent could be a practical and sustainable strategy. This approach could potentially prevent the overexploitation of cuachalalate’s SB, contributing to its conservation.Contribution: This study proposes a sustainable strategy for using cuachalalate as a medicinal agent using BB, a renewable source.

A multifunctional natural treasure based on a “one stone, many birds” strategy for designing health-promoting applications: Tordyliumapulum

Wild plants provide important bioactive compounds, and their analysis relies heavily on selecting the right extraction techniques and solvents. This study was conducted to determine the phenolic content and biopharmaceutical potential of four different extracts (ethyl acetate, ethanol, 70% ethanol, and water) from the aerial parts of wild plant Tordylium apulum L. The biochemical profile of the extract was screened using high performance liquid chromatography -mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis. The total phenolic and flavonoid content was examined using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and the aluminium trichloride assay, respectively. The antioxidant activity was evaluated through several tests, including 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), phosphomolybdenum (PBD), and metal chelating activity (MCA). Five types of enzyme inhibition activity were tested against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butrylcholinesterase (BChE), tyrosinase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase. Additionally, For the first time, the inhibitory activity of T. apulum extract against human carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes I and II (hCA-I and hCA-II) was evaluated. Fifty-five compounds for negative ionization mode, and twenty-eight compounds for positive ionization mode were recorded in HPLC-MS analysis and they were polyphenolic, flavonoids, carbohydrates, sugar alcohol and amino acids. These results indicate that different solvents extract varying levels of antioxidants from T. apulum, with ethanol and water extracts generally exhibiting superior antioxidant activities. The ethanol extract of T. apulum exhibited the maximum contents of total phenolics measuring 33.71 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g. The ethanol extract exhibited the highest inhibition of AChE with 2.28 mg galanthamine equivalent (GALAE)/g. The ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts also showed the highest hCA-I and hCA-II inhibition potential, respectively. The ethanol-water and water extracts acted on the biofilm of E. coli (49.93% and 45.22%, respectively), and the biofilm of P. aeruginosa (50.68% and 44.46%, respectively). The extracts were tested on different cell lines for cytotoxic potentials and in particular the water extract induced the apoptotic pathways in cervical cancer (HELA) cell lines. In conclusion, T. apulum exhibit multidirectional biological properties and it could be considered as a versatile agent for the development of health-promoting applications.

Solvothermal preparation of CuO/g-C3N4 and photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin

Composite materials CuO/g-C3N4 (CuOCN) were prepared using a solvothermal method to investigate their degradation effect on ciprofloxacin (CIP). The materials were characterized through X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectrophotometry (DRS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The toxicity of degradation products of CIP was assessed through antibacterial experiments, and the degradation mechanism of CIP was investigated using quenching agent capture and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). The results of XRD and FTIR indicate that the CuOCN composite has been successfully synthesized. The photocatalytic experiment shows that adding 15% (w/w) of Cu3(BTC)2(H2O)3 in melamine (CuOCN2) has a relatively good degradation effect on CIP and can be reused multiple times. The TEM results indicate that both CuO and g-C3N4 have a layered structure and are attached together. HRTEM analysis reveals that the two components in CuOCN2 are arranged in a layered structure, with CuO displaying two crystal planes. Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) analysis reveals that the proportion of CuO in the three composite materials is 7.86% (w/w), 15.93% (w/w), and 84.83% (w/w), respectively. DRS detection reveals that the greater the amount of CuO added, the broader the visible light absorption range of the composite material, and the narrower the bandgap width. The photocurrent and photoresistance indicate that CuOCN2 exhibits a good photoelectric effect. XPS analysis shows that the CuOCN2 composite material possesses both the chemical composition and structure of CuO and g-C3N4. During the catalytic degradation process of CIP, four active substances, h+, e−, ·O2 −, and ·OH, were produced, leading to a reduction in the toxicity of the degradation products. Through HPLC-MS analysis, it was found that CIP undergoes reactions such as defluorination, ring opening of piperazine, and quinolone during degradation, resulting in reduced toxicity. This study provides an experimental basis for the degradation of CIP by CuOCN2.

Screening and Genomic Analysis of Alkaloid-Producing Endophytic Fungus Fusarium solani Strain MC503 from Macleaya cordata.

The extensive harvesting of Macleaya cordata, as a biomedicinal plant and a wild source of quaternary benzo[c]phenanthridine alkaloids, has led to a rapid decline in its population. An alternative approach to the production of these bioactive compounds, which are known for their diverse pharmacological effects, is needed. Production of these compounds using alkaloid-producing endophytic fungi is a promising potential approach. In this research, we isolated an alkaloid-producing endophytic fungus, strain MC503, from the roots of Macleaya cordata. Genomic analysis was conducted to elucidate its metabolic pathways and identify the potential genes responsible for alkaloid biosynthesis. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analyses revealed the presence and quantified the content of sanguinarine (536.87 μg/L) and chelerythrine (393.31 μg/L) in the fungal fermentation extract. Based on our analysis of the morphological and micromorphological characteristics and the ITS region of the nuclear ribosomal DNA of the alkaloid-producing endophyte, it was identified as Fusarium solani strain MC503. To the best of our knowledge, there is no existing report on Fusarium solani from Macleaya cordata or other medicinal plants that produce sanguinarine and chelerythrine simultaneously. These findings provide valuable insights into the capability of Fusarium solani to carry out isoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis and lay the foundation for further exploration of its potential applications in pharmaceuticals.

Targeted Discovery of Glycosylated Natural Products by Tailoring Enzyme-Guided Genome Mining and MS-Based Metabolome Analysis.

Glycosides make up a biomedically important class of secondary metabolites. Most naturally occurring glycosides were isolated from plants and bacteria; however, the chemical diversity of glycosylated natural products in fungi remains largely unexplored. Herein, we present a paradigm to specifically discover diverse and bioactive glycosylated natural products from fungi by combining tailoring enzyme-guided genome mining with mass spectrometry (MS)-based metabolome analysis. Through in vivo genes deletion and heterologous expression, the first fungal C-glycosyltransferase AuCGT involved in the biosynthesis of stromemycin was identified from Aspergillus ustus. Subsequent homology-based genome mining for fungal glycosyltransferases by using AuCGT as a probe revealed a variety of biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) containing its homologues in diverse fungi, of which the glycoside-producing capability was corroborated by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis. Consequently, 28 fungal aromatic polyketide C/O-glycosides, including 20 new compounds, were efficiently discovered and isolated from the three selected fungi. Moreover, several novel fungal C/O-glycosyltransferases, especially three novel α-pyrone C-glycosyltransferases, were functionally characterized and verified in the biosynthesis of these glycosides. In addition, a proof of principle for combinatorial biosynthesis was applied to design the production of unnatural glycosides in Aspergillus nidulans. Notably, the newly discovered glycosides exhibited significant antiviral, antibacterial, and antidiabetic activities. Our work demonstrates the promise of tailoring enzyme-guided genome-mining approach for the targeted discovery of fungal glycosides and promotes the exploration of a broader chemical space for natural products with a target structural motif in microbial genomes.

Near UV Photodegradation Mechanisms of Amino Acid Excipients: Formation of the Carbon Dioxide Radical Anion from Aspartate and Fe(III).

Carbon dioxide radical anion (•CO2-) is a powerful reducing agent that can reduce protein disulfide bonds and convert molecular oxygen to superoxide. Therefore, the generation of •CO2- can be detrimental to pharmaceutical formulations. Iron is among the most prevalent impurities in formulations, where Fe(III) chelates of histidine (His) can produce •CO2- upon exposure to near-UV light (Zhang and Schöneich, Eur. J. Pharm. Biopharm. 2023, 190, 231-241). Here, we monitor by spin-trapping in combination with electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and/or high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis the photochemical formation of •CO2- for a series of common amino acid excipients, including arginine (Arg), methionine (Met), proline (Pro), glutamic acid (Glu), glycine (Gly), aspartic acid (Asp), and lysine (Lys). Our results indicate that in the presence of Fe(III), Asp, and Glu produce significant yields of •CO2- under photoirradiation with near-UV light. Notably, Asp demonstrates the highest efficiency of •CO2- generation compared with that of the other amino acid excipients. Stable isotope labeling indicates that •CO2- exclusively originates from the α-carboxyl group of Asp. Mechanistic studies reveal two possible pathways for •CO2- formation, which involve either a β-carboxyl radical or an amino radical cation intermediate.

A Bronze Age lip-paint from southeastern Iran

A small chlorite vial, discovered among numerous artifacts looted and recovered in the Jiroft region of Kerman province, southeastern Iran, contains a deep red cosmetic preparation that is likely a lip-coloring paint or paste. Through analytical research involving XRD (X-ray diffraction), SEM–EDS (scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive spectroscopy), and HPLC–MS (high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry) analyses, the mineral components of the reddish substance were identified as hematite, darkened with manganite and braunite, and traces of galena and anglesite, mixed with vegetal waxes and other organic substances. The mixture, thus observed, bears a striking resemblance to the recipes of contemporary lipsticks. We also report the first radiocarbon date ever obtained from a Bronze age cosmetic in the ancient Near East: results place the pigment in the early 2nd millennium BCE, a date compatible with several mentions of the powerful eastern-iranian civilization of Marḫaši in coeval cuneiform texts of Mesopotamia, as well as with its currently emerging archaeological picture.

Analysis of novel In2S3/polyimide Z-scheme heterojunctions with enhanced photocatalytic target compound degradation efficiency

In this study, In2S3/PI Z-scheme heterojunctions composite photocatalysts were synthesized via a hydrothermal technique and employed to degrade tetracycline hydrochloride under the action of visible light. The enhancement of their performance was achieved by combining organic and metallic materials. The In2S3/PI heterojunction with 20 wt% In (20In2S3/PI), demonstrated the highest efficiency in target compound (TC) degradation, with a rate of 88%, i.e., 86% and 38% higher than that of PI and In2S3, respectively, over 180 min. This remarkable photocatalytic performance was due to the enhanced charge separation and decreased electron-hole pair recombination, through the formation of a diverse structure. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, radical trapping, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy analyses verified the above speculation. Compared to pure PI and In2S3, the composite photocatalyst exhibited a superior generation of active species, i.e., ∙O2− and h+, along with a higher capacity for mineralization. Furthermore, high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis was performed to examine the possible pathways for the photocatalytic degradation of TC by the In2S3/PI composites. The findings of this study provide a novel approach to TC degradation.

Development of a reliable method for determination of N-nitrosamines in medicines using disposable pipette extraction and HPLC-MS analysis.

This study outlines the development and optimization of an analytical method using Disposable Pipette Extraction (DPX) followed by high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis to determine NAs in medicines. HPLC-MS analysis utilized a reversed-phase and positive mode electrospray ion source. DPX parameters were optimized through univariate and multivariate analyses, including extraction phase, desorption solvent, sample pH, equilibrium time, and extraction/desorption cycles. The optimized conditions included a C18 extraction phase, methanol desorption solvent, pH at 7, an equilibrium time of 30 seconds, 2 extraction cycles, and 5 desorption cycles. Considering this method, it was possible to achieve a sample preparation step for the analysis of NAs in medicines using a minimal amount of extraction phase, sample, and desorption solvent. Furthermore, the total extraction procedure enables the extraction of NAs in around 4 minutes with NA recovery up to 98%. Analytical performance demonstrated precision and accuracy below 15% and a quantification limit of 1 ng mL-1, meeting validation requirements set by regulations worldwide. Thus, the DPX/HPLC-MS technique offers a faster and cost-effective method for analyzing NAs in medicines compared to traditional approaches. Besides, this method reduces solvent consumption and residue generation, enhancing environmental sustainability according to green chemistry principles.

Identification of the Bioactive Compounds of Raw and Honey-Processed Farfarae Flos by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS) with the Spectrum-Effect Relationship and Chemometrics

Farfarae Flos (FF), also known as “Kuandonghua” in Chinese, is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with various therapeutic properties, including antitussive, expectorant, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Despite the widespread consumption of processed FF, there has been limited progress in improving quality control measures for both raw FF and honey-processed Farfarae Flos (PFF). This study aimed to establish a comprehensive strategy for quality evaluation and distinguish between FF and PFF by integrating high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis with chemometric techniques. Additionally, the antioxidant activities of FF and PFF were assessed using radical-scavenging experiments. The spectrum-effect relationship is the association of chemical composition information of the fingerprint with antioxidant activity, which was used to predict the primary active components that influence the antioxidant activity of FF. The results indicated that FF and PFF samples showed a clear distinction, and the most potent pharmacologically active ingredients were hyperoside, quercetin, caffeic acid, isoquercitrin, neochlorogenic acid, rutin, cryptochlorogenic acid, and isochlorogenic acid C. Moreover, the comprehensive efficacy of the honey-processed FF was better than for raw FF. In conclusion, the findings of this study provide a scientific foundation for future evaluation of the quality, further research, and practical use of FF herbs.

Interaction of Clematis flammula extracts with membrane models: characterization of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities

The present study aimed at elucidating the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial mechanisms of Clematis flammula (CF) leaf extracts. Methodologically, antioxidant activity was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power assays, and antibacterial activity was assessed using Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) cell cultures. Anti-inflammatory potency was evaluated through cyclooxygenase and trypsin inhibitory activities. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial mechanisms of the active extracts were elucidated using two membrane models: erythrocytes and liposomes. The phenolic compounds in the extracts were identified using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Ethyl acetate extract inhibited S. aureus growth at a minimum inhibitory concentration of 78 µg/mL, possibly due to its lytic activity of liposomes (56.75 ± 0.54%). Additionally, the extract presented the best anti-trypsin activity (IC50 =7.67 ± 0.61 µg/mL) and inhibited cyclooxygenase activity (IC50 = 594.33 ± 11.15 µg/mL), probably related to its high polyphenol content (192.64 ± 1.55 mg GAE/g E). HPLC-MS analysis revealed the presence of flavones and flavonols. Conclusively, the results of this study suggest that CF extracts exert anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and trypsin activities and altering bacterial cell membrane, suggesting the potential of CF in the treatment of bacterial infections and inflammatory disorders.

Nematicidal effect of Beauveria species and the mycotoxin beauvericin against pinewood nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus

Introduction and main objectiveBursaphelenchus xylophilus, commonly known as pine wood nematode (PWN), is considered one of the greatest threats to European and Asian pines. Regarding its management, most efforts have been directed toward control measures for the major vector (Monochamus spp.) and screening for genetic resistance in its hosts. However, an integrated pest management strategy which also implements pinewood nematode control is currently lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nematicidal effect of two Beauveria species, a genus well known for its entomopathogenic activity.Summary methodologyFor this purpose, in vitro antagonism tests of fungi (Beauveria bassiana and B. pseudobassiana) and the mycotoxin beauvericin (C45H57N3O9) on B. xylophilus populations were conducted. Finally, the production of beauvericin in B. bassiana and B. pseudobassiana strains was quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS).Results and discussionBoth the B. bassiana and B. pseudobassiana fungal species and the mycotoxin beauvericin showed a clear nematicidal effect on B. xylophilus populations, substantially reducing their survival rate and even attaining 100% mortality in one case. HPLC-MS analysis confirmed and quantified the production of beauvericin by B. bassiana and demonstrated for the first-time beauvericin production in B. pseudobassiana.Final conclusionThese findings highlight the potential of Beauveria species and the mycotoxin beauvericin to be implemented in an integrated pest management strategy to control both nematode and vector.

From Kiwi Peels’ “End-of-Life” to Gold Nanoparticles: the Upcycling of a Waste

Following a green approach, kiwi peels (a waste) were washed in hot water to obtain a water-based polyphenolic extract (KPWW) used to reduce Au3+ (coming from a HAuCl4 water-based solution) for forming gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Indeed, KPWW, as shown after performing high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS-MS) analysis, is mainly composed by different polyphenols acting as reductant agents, accomplishing a red-ox reaction and decorating the AuNPs-KPWW surface. Spectroscopic and morphologic techniques were used in synergy for investigating the AuNPs-KPWW main features. Polyhedral-shaped plasmonic nanoparticles with a mean size of 30±10 nm and a negative charge of −40 mV were thus obtained. The AuNPs’ stability was assessed under different working conditions, investigating the role of ionic strength, pH, and temperature. The photostability was also assessed by irradiating AuNPs-KPWW with a solar simulator lamp. Both temperature and solar light did not perturb AuNPs-KPWW. Thanks to the presence of polyphenols, the antioxidant and skin-lightening properties were positively demonstrated. Moreover, the protective role of AuNPs in scavenging H2O2 and ·OH was also investigated by inhibiting the oxidation of a biomolecule. The sunscreen ability of AuNPs-KPWW was also estimated, and the theoretical calculation of the sun protection factor (SPF) was determined. Finally, the AuNPs-KPWW biocompatibility was tested on endothelial colony-forming cells and normal dermal fibroblasts as human cell lines, revealing that AuNPs-KPWW did not affect cell viability and did not alter cell morphology, demonstrating their safety and their potential application in nanomedicine.

Nitrogen self-doped chitosan carbon aerogel integrating with CoAl-LDH for ultra-efficient sulfamethoxazole degradation based on PS-AOPs: From batch to continuous process

Nitrogen self-doped chitosan carbon aerogel (NCCA) integrating with CoAl layered double hydroxide (CoAl-LDH) was successfully fabricated and utilized for the ultra-efficient activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) toward sulfamethoxazole (SMX) degradation. And the NCCA/CoAl-LDH-2 catalyst possessed the highest catalytic activity with 97.5% of SMX degradation efficiency in 5 min and 74.8% of total organic carbon (TOC) removal efficiency in 30 min, may being on account of the synergistic interaction between NCCA and CoAl-LDH. Additionally, the NCCA/CoAl-LDH-2 catalyst not only had good reusability and stability, but also could realize continuous degradation of SMX solutions via a fixed-bed reactor. Furthermore, the results of quenching tests, electrochemical measurements as well as electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis demonstrated that both non-radical and radical processes participated in the SMX degradation, in which the latter played a predominant role. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) corroborated that the main active sites were the CO groups and graphitic N of NCCA, and the Co3+/Co2+ redox cycle of CoAl-LDH. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculation containing the laplacian bond order (LBO) and Fukui index were carried out to deeply explore the reasonable SMX degradation pathways. This current study provided a theoretical basis to design an efficient PMS activation system toward continuous antibiotics degradation.

Identification of the Key Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients of Yishen Qutong Granule, A Chinese Medicine Formula, In The Treatment of Primary Lung Cancer.

Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) reportedly has potential therapeutic effects against LC. This study aimed to investigate the antitumor efficacy of Yishen Qutong granule (YSQTG) in primary LC treatment, to identify its key active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and to explore its possible mechanism of action. The antitumor role of YSQTG was validated via cell function assays and a xenograft tumor model. Then, high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) was performed to determine the objective precipitation components of YSQTG, followed by target prediction through reference to databases. Subsequently, the proportion of the predicted targets that underwent actual changes was identified via RNA-sequencing. Enrichment analysis was performed to explore the possible mechanisms of action. Hub genes were screened, and western blotting was used to verify their protein expression levels to identify the core target. Molecular docking between the active compounds and the verified core target was performed, combined with an evaluation of the potential efficacy of candidate compounds using meta-analysis to screen the candidate key APIs. Experiments confirmed that YSQTG could inhibit LC cell proliferation, induce apoptosis in vitro, and inhibit lung tumor growth in vivo. HPLC-MS, RNA-seq, and enrichment analysis showed that oxidative stress-related pathways were the possible mechanism of YSQTG in primary LC treatment. Western blot verification indicated that heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1, HO-1) could be the core target. Molecular docking and meta-analysis suggested that genistein and quercetin were the candidate key APIs. YSQTG and its active ingredients, genistein and quercetin, may have therapeutic effects against LC through their action on the downregulation of oxidative stress-related HMOX1 protein expression.

Yuhong ointment ameliorates inflammatory responses and wound healing in scalded mice.

Yuhong ointment (YHO) is famous for its efficacy in clearing away heat and dampness, reducing swelling and relieving pain, and it has been used for more than 600 years. Scalding damages the skin's defense function, resulting in a large number of necrotic tissues and cells on the wound surface, which favors bacterial growth and inflammation. If the inflammation reaction is not controlled on time, it may lead to reduced immunity and cause complications such as infection. Yuhong ointment can promote wound healing in scalded mice, but its potential pharmacological mechanism is still unclear. This study focused on identifying the active ingredients of YHO and on investigating the performance of YHO in terms of anti-inflammatory activity and scald wound healing activity. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) were performed to identify the active ingredients of YHO. The performance of transdermal delivery of YHO was studied via HPLC for analyzing the ingredients of the exposed skin liquid of mice. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis, immunohistochemistry, and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) were used to investigate the anti-inflammatory and scald wound healing activity of YHO. A total of 41 components of YHO were identified via HPLC and HPLC-MS for the first time. In the transdermal delivery experiment, the cumulative amounts of chlorogenic acid, sesamol, ferulic acid, and L-shikonin were calculated to be 342.28, 567.89, 384.54, and 528.67 μg/cm2, respectively. Pharmacological activity experiments indicated that these four kinds of drugs exhibited different degrees of therapeutic effects on scald. Specifically, YHO high-dose (YHO-H) group showed better therapeutic ability (P < 0.01) than FN and MB group. Furthermore, the immune function of the YHO group was enhanced due to the continuous increment of the levels of Hydroxyproline (HYP), Immunoglobulin G (IgG), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and simultaneous decrement of the levels of TNF-α, TNF-β, IL-10, and IL-6 in the skin wound. Histological results showed that the thickening of skin tissue was alleviated after treatment with YHO. Moreover, the expression of substance P (SP), calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) and transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) was inhibited, and the expression of VEGF was promoted by YHO (P < 0.01). The qRT-PCR test results indicated that the YHO group exhibited better inhibitory effect on interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 10 (IL-10), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and Smad-3 mRNA expression levels than the other groups. In this work, the active ingredients of YHO were identified via HPLC and HPLC-MS analysis. Importantly, YHO showed great advantages in transdermal delivery and scald wound healing, which can be attributed to the both anti-inflammatory and tissue regeneration mechanisms. Therefore, this work not only identified the active ingredients of YHO but also revealed the potential pharmacological mechanism of YHO for the healing of scald.

Antioxidant Properties, Bioactive Compounds Contents, and Chemical Characterization of Two Wild Edible Mushroom Species from Morocco: Paralepista flaccida (Sowerby) Vizzini and Lepista nuda (Bull.) Cooke.

Mushrooms have been consumed for centuries and have recently gained more popularity as an important source of nutritional and pharmaceutical compounds. As part of the valorization of mushroom species in northern Morocco, the current study aimed to investigate the chemical compositions and antioxidant properties of two wild edible mushrooms, Paralepista flaccida and Lepista nuda. Herein, the bioactive compounds were determined using spectrophotometer methods, and results showed that the value of total phenolic content (TPC) was found to be higher in P. flaccida (32.86 ± 0.52 mg) than in L. nuda (25.52 ± 0.56 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAEs)/mg of dry methanolic extract (dme)). On the other hand, the value of total flavonoid content (TFC) was greater in L. nuda than in P. flaccida, with values of 19.02 ± 0.80 and 10.34 ± 0.60 mg of (+)-catechin equivalents (CEs)/g dme, respectively. Moreover, the ascorbic acid, tannin, and carotenoids content was moderate, with a non-significant difference between the two samples. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) analysis allowed the identification and quantification of thirteen individual phenolic compounds in both P. flaccida and L. nuda, whereas p-Hydroxybenzoic acid was recognized as the major compound detected, with values of 138.50 ± 1.58 and 587.90 ± 4.89 µg/g of dry weight (dw), respectively. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of methanolic extracts of P. flaccida and L. nuda revealed the presence of sixty-one and sixty-six biomolecules, respectively. These biomolecules can mainly be divided into four main groups, namely sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and organic acids. Moreover, glycerol (12.42%) and mannitol (10.39%) were observed to be the main chemical compositions of P. flaccida, while L. nuda was predominated by linolelaidic acid (21.13%) and leucine (9.05%). L. nuda showed a strong antioxidant property, evaluated by DPPH (half maximal effective concentration (EC50) 1.18-0.98 mg/mL); β-carotene bleaching (EC50 0.22-0.39 mg/mL); and reducing power methods (EC50 0.63-0.48 mg/mL), respectively. These findings suggested that both mushrooms are potential sources of various biomolecules, many of which possess important biological activities which are interesting for the foods and pharmaceuticals industry.