Highest Antioxidant Activity Research Articles

Fungal fermentation improves the nutritional quality, flavor characteristic and physicochemical property of highland barley bran

Highland barley bran (HBB), as a by-product during the milling of highland barley, is under-utilized. Food-grade fungi R. oligosporus and A. elegans were used in this study to improve the food quality of HBB. Macromolecular nutrients were converted into small molecules during fermentation, which was further identified by scanning electron microscope (SEM), particle size, and metabolite analysis. The insoluble fibers were effectively bio-transformed into the soluble form, inducing significant improvements in the bran’s physicochemical properties including water-holding capacity, oil-holding capacity, water solubility, and swelling capacity. The antioxidant activity of HBB was also enhanced by fungal fermentation due to the increased phenolics released by fungal enzymes. SPME-GC-MS analysis demonstrated that the HBB’s flavors were significantly improved by fungal fermentation due to the increased alcohols, hydrocarbons, and esters. Additionally, R. oligosporus fermentation tended to release phenolics to achieve high antioxidant activities, and A. elegans fermentation preferred to improve physicochemical properties to enhance the processing applicability of HBB, which were mainly due to their individualized metabolic pathways triggered during fermentation. In conclusion, fermentation with probiotic fungi significantly improved the food quality and processing applicability of HBB, implying a high application potential of fermented HBB to develop functional foods.

MOF-Encapsulated Copper-Doped Carbon Dots Nanozymes with Excellent Biological Activity Promote Diabetes Wound Healing

Abstract Poor wound healing in diabetics is primarily caused by persistently high levels of inflammation and recurrent bacterial infections. The catalytic therapy technique based on nanozyme medicine has emerged as a beacon of hope for patients with diabetic wounds. However, the use of a single-atom nanozyme may still have limitations, including nanozyme burst release, immunological clearance, and insufficient antibacterial activity. To address the aforementioned problems, we provide a new nano-catalytic therapeutic agent for diabetic skin ulcers that incorporates a single-atom nanozyme with high antioxidant activity into a metal-organic framework (ZIF-Cu/C-dots). First, a Cu single-atom nanozyme supported by ultra-small carbon dots (Cu/C-dots) with high antioxidant activity was created. A nanozyme-integrated metal-organic framework was then created, utilizing Cu/C-dots as ligands and Zn2+ as the core metal. Cu/C-dots have good oxidase-like activity, shielding the biological system from ROS damage and reducing the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β. Zn2+ also has good antibacterial activity (the antibacterial rate was more than 90%). This integrated technique prevents nanozyme aggregation, improves nanozyme biocompatibility, slows down the breakdown of ZIF, and allows for the regulated release of Cu/C-dots and Zn2+ as needed. Finally, in vivo studies have shown that ZIF-Cu/C-dots can effectively alleviate inflammation at the site of diabetic wounds, accelerate vascular regeneration, promote collagen deposition, and enhance tissue remodeling, serving as a novel nano-catalytic platform for the treatment of wounds that are difficult to heal.

Determination of Cytotoxic Activity of Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliot Fruit Extracts on Breast Cancer (MCF-7) and Cervical Cancer (HeLa) Cell Lines

Aronia (chokeberry) fruits are consumed as fresh fruit due to their high antioxidant activity, and are also preferred among the public in the production of natural medicines. Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliot, a species of the Rosaceae family, contains many phytochemical compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, lignans, terpenes, tocopherols, phospholipids, organic acids and high amounts of anthocyanins. In this study, it was aimed to determine the in vitro anticarcinogenic activities of A. melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliot fruit extracts prepared with 6 different solvents. In the study, the cytotoxic effects of the fruits were investigated using breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) and cervical cancer cell line (HeLa), and their effects on healthy cells were investigated using human endothelial cells (HUVEC) and mouse fibroblast cells (L929) by the MTT method. As a result of the study; It was determined that the highest cytotoxicity on the breast cancer (MCF-7) cell line was observed in the ethanol extract (IC50=111.44 µg/mL) and the lowest cytotoxicity was observed in the hexane extract (IC50=661.80 µg/mL). It was determined that the highest cytotoxicity on the cervical cancer (HeLa) cell line was observed in the ethanol extract (IC50=95.14 µg/mL) and the lowest cytotoxicity was observed in the ethyl acetate extract (IC50=319.51 µg/mL). According to these values; It was determined that all extracts of Aronia fruit had cytotoxic effects on MCF-7 and HeLa cell lines, selectivity index values were higher in HeLa cells, and they did not have cytotoxic effects on HUVEC and L929 healthy cell lines (IC50=411.25-663.27 µg/mL). Thus, it has been determined that the fruits of the Aronia melanocarpa species are promising in the development of new natural resources, new drugs and therapeutic agents in cancer treatment, thanks to their anticancer activities and low cytotoxicity. It is recommended that further research be conducted on the mechanisms of anticancer activity in the future

Evaluation of Physical Attributes and Efficacy of Lip Balm Formulated with Okra Fruit Extract (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench)

The okra fruit (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) is renowned for its significant antioxidant properties, attributed to its rich content of bioactive compounds. Despite its high antioxidant activity, which has been extensively documented, its potential as a component in cosmetic formulations particularly lip balm preparation remains underutilized. This study seeks to address this gap by incorporating okra fruit extract into lip balm formulations and evaluating the resultant physical and functional attributes. Lip balm formulations were developed with three varying concentrations of okra fruit extract: F1 (1%), F2 (3%), and F3 (5%). A series of comprehensive evaluations were conducted to assess the physical stability and performance of the lip balms, including organoleptic properties, homogeneity, pH, melting point, spreadability, and overall stability. Stability was monitored over a 28-day period at room temperature to simulate typical storage conditions. The antioxidant efficacy of the okra extract was quantified using the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) assay, which yielded an IC50 value of 10.06 ppm, reflecting its potent free radical scavenging capacity. The lip balm formulations exhibited a distinct okra aroma, smooth texture, and uniform color variations ranging from light brown (F1), brown (F2), to dark brown (F3). pH values ranged from 5.40 to 5.81, and melting points were between 49.6°C and 52.9°C, all within the acceptable range as per SNI 16-4769-1998 standards. ANOVA statistical analysis revealed no significant changes (p > 0.05) in melting point and spreadability over time. However, significant differences (p < 0.05) were noted in pH values, with further analysis indicating that formulations F2 and F3 differed significantly from F1 (p < 0.05). These results demonstrate that okra fruit extract not only enhances the antioxidant properties of lip balm but also maintains its stability and functionality, supporting its potential as a valuable ingredient in cosmetic formulations.

Возможности метода биохемилюминисценции с модельной средой из сыворотки крови в оценке антиоксидантной активности растительного сырья

Antioxidant activity (AOA) is an important indicator of the evaluation of plant raw materials (RM), which are widely used in medicine to obtain various medicines. The use of RM at the present stage of the pharmaceutical industry development allows avoiding large-scale production of synthetic medicines, accompanied by a negative impact on the environment. For an objective assessment of AOA, it is necessary to apply methods that allow determining not only the content of the active substance, but also generally characterizing the functional activity of RM. The article presents data on the AOA of aqueous extracts from the leaves and fruits of Hippophae rhamnoides L., Aronia melanocarpa L. The determination of antioxidant activity was performed by biochemiluminiscence (BСHL) using serum from white mongrel rats as a model environment (MЕ). The evaluation criteria were the maximum intensity (Imax) and the light sum of the glow (S). The results obtained were compared with the data of the analysis of BCHL without ME, as well as with the data of alternative methods for quantifying the antioxidant potential of RM (coulometric titration, direct titration, spectrophotometry). According to the criteria for assessing the intensity of free radical oxidation (Imax) using the BCHL method without ME, it was found that aqueous extracts from the leaves and fruits of A. melanocarpa, as well as H. rhamnoides leaves, have a high antioxidant potential (343, 274 and 268 mV, respectively), and from H. rhamnoides fruits – more short. BCHL results showed that the amount of radicals in blood serum decreased upon contact with extracts from vegetable raw materials. Among the studied samples, extracts from the fruits of A. melanocarpa were characterized by the highest AOA (S=2006±137 mV·s). At the same time, according to alternative methods, they occupy an intermediate position in terms of the quantitative content of biologically active substances (BAS) with antioxidant properties. Based on the weak correlation between the data of the BСHL method and alternative methods for determining AOA, it is concluded that it is necessary to take into account the possibility of an indirect relationship between the content of BAS in RM and the effect manifested in conditions as close as possible to biological systems. The measurement of AOA by the BСHL method is actually an assessment of the function, as well as the effectiveness of BAS, and complements quantitative methods for assessing the antioxidant activity of ME.

NMR Metabolite Profiling and Antioxidant Properties of Spartan, Jewels, Misty, and Camelia Blueberries.

The health-promoting properties of blueberries are widely recognized and are mainly attributed to anthocyanins. However, fruit's chemical composition includes also other components and strongly depends on varieties and climatic conditions. Here, 1H NMR metabolite profiling and biological activity of four blueberry cultivars (Spartan, Jewels, Misty, Camelia) grown in Central Italy over two years were reported. Untargeted and targeted NMR analyses allowed the quantification of sugars, organic acids, amino acids, anthocyanins, lipids, and other compounds. Spectrophotometric assays evaluated total phenolic and flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, and enzyme inhibitory activity toward cholinesterase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and tyrosinase. Statistical analysis showed a correlation between chemical composition and biological activity, revealing markers specific to blueberry cultivars (quinic acid, quercitrin, myo-inositol, myrtillin, and petunidin-3-O-glucoside). Almost all antioxidant assays were correlated with the chlorogenic acid levels. A strong effect of harvesting on chemical composition and biological activities was observed, with Misty cultivar having the highest antioxidant activity.

Combination of medicinal plants with antibiotics against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii

Background and aims: One essential plant-based strategy to deal with infections is antimicrobial synergism, which can make antimicrobials more efficient. The aim of this study was to investigate the interaction between these extracts and two widely used antibiotics, meropenem and gentamicin, on two multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii, in vitro. Methods: Different concentrations of Rosa damascena Mill., Malva sylvestris L., and Zataria multiflora Boiss. hydroalcoholic extracts (2-fold serial dilution from 131072 to 256 μg/mL) were administered against two MDR bacteria, and their combination with gentamicin and meropenem (serial dilution from 32 to 0.015 μg/mL) was investigated by the resazurin-based microdilution and the checkerboard method. The phytochemical properties of the extracts were also examined, and the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), anthocyanin content, and antioxidant capacity of the extracts were determined. Results: Z. multiflora and R. damascena showed high antibacterial activity, and their minimal inhibitory concentrations on Acinetobacter baumannii were 1024 and 2048 μg/mL, respectively. Z. multiflora also had high TFC, TPC, and antioxidant activity and demonstrated additive interaction with meropenem and gentamicin with fractional inhibitory concentrations of 1 and 0.75, respectively. Conclusion: We suggest the potency of Z. multiflora-antibiotic combinations in treating MDR A. baumannii after future clinical studies.

Aktivitas Antioksidan Ekstrak Etanol 50% dan 70% Daun Kenikir (Cosmos Caudatus Kunth) Dengan Metode DPPH (2,2 Diphenyl-1 Picrylhydrazyl)

Antioxidants are molecules that work by warding off free radicals thereby reducing the damaging effects of free radicals. Coronary heart disease is a disease caused by free radicals. Kenikir leaves contain quite high flavonoid metabolite compounds, namely 12.197 mg QE/g. Flavonoids are among the largest natural phenolic compounds in plants that have bioactivity as medicines. The benefits of flavonoids are as anticancer, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant. The aim of this research was to determine the antioxidant activity of 50% and 70% ethanol extract of kenikir leaves (Cosmos caudatus Kunth.) using the DPPH method. This type of research is analytic cross sectional. The results of this study indicate that there is antioxidant activity of 50% and 70% ethanol extract of kenikir leaves (Cosmos caudatus Kunth.) using the DPPH method. The lowest IC50 value was 70% ethanol extract of kenikir leaves, namely 45.573 ± 0.241 ppm. The highest potential antioxidant activity is 70% ethanol extract of kenikir leaves with an IC50 value of 45.573 ± 0.241 ppm. The highest total flavonoid content was 70% ethanol extract of kenikir leaves, namely 17.209 ± 0.297%. The conclusion of this research is that 70% ethanol extract of kenikir leaves (Cosmos caudatus Kunth.) has the highest antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 45.573 ± 0.241 ppm.

Influence of Primary Light Exposure on the Morphophysiological Characteristics and Phenolic Compounds Accumulation of a Tea Callus Culture (Camellia sinensis L.).

Tea plant calli (Camellia sinensis L.) are characterized by the accumulation of various phenolic compounds (PC)-substances with high antioxidant activity. However, there is still no clarity on the response of tea cells to light exposure of varying intensity. The purpose of the research was to study tea callus cultures grown under the influence of primary exposure to different light intensities (50, 75, and 100 µmol·m-2·s-1). The cultures' growth, morphology, content of malondialdehyde and photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a and b), accumulation of various PC, including phenylpropanoids and flavanols, and the composition of catechins were analyzed. Primary exposure to different light intensities led to the formation of chloroplasts in tea calli, which was more pronounced at 100 µmol·m-2·s-1. Significant similarity in the growth dynamics of cultures, accumulation of pigments, and content of malondialdehyde and various phenolics in tea calli grown at light intensities of 50 and 75 µmol·m-2·s-1 has been established, which is not typical for calli grown at 100 µmol·m-2·s-1. According to data collected using high-performance liquid chromatography, (+)-catechin, (-)-epicatechin, epigallocatechin, gallocatechin gallate, epicatechin gallate, and epigallocatechin gallate were the main components of the tea callus culture's phenolic complex. Its content changed under the influence of primary exposure to light, reaching the greatest accumulation in the final stages of growth, and depended on the light intensity. The data obtained indicate changes in the morphophysiological and biochemical characteristics of tea callus cultures, including the accumulation of PC and their individual representatives under primary exposure to light exposure of varying intensity, which is most pronounced at its highest values (100 µmol·m-2·s-1).

Chemical, Textural and Antioxidant Properties of Oat-Fermented Beverages with Different Starter Lactic Acid Bacteria and Pectin.

Currently, starter cultures for fermenting plant-based beverages are not widely available commercially, but producers can use starter cultures for dairy products. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the physicochemical, rheological, antioxidant and sensory properties of oat beverages with/without pectin fermented by four different dairy starter cultures. The use of a mono-starter with Lactobacillus bulgaricus or Sreptococcus thermophilus allows for the efficient use of glucose, and more lactic acid is accumulated. The beverage with L. bulgaricus is characterised by high adhesion, syneresis and low cohesiveness, and it has high antioxidant activity and a low sensory profile. Using starter with L. bulgaricus, S. thermophilus and some Lactococcus for fermentation yields a product with high sensory capacity, forming a high-viscosity beverage matrix with low syneresis, high water retention, chewy texture and stickiness. It has been observed that the absence of lactococci and the presence of Lactobacillus casei, L. Rhamnosus and L. paracasei in the starter yields a product with high antioxidant activity, especially in the presence of pectin. The use of pectin significantly improves the viscosity and textural properties of oat yoghurt, enhancing the drink's flavour and giving it body. For many reasons, the use of different commercial starters in the dairy industry results in different viscosities of oat fermented beverages, forming a matrix with different textural, sensory and antioxidant properties.

Isolation of Nutmeg Essential Oil (Myristica fragrans houtt) From Aceh Indonesia and Their Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities

This study aims to isolate the nutmeg essential oil (Myristica fragrans Houtt) from Aceh Indonesia and evaluate their biological activity. The antioxidant activity of the nutmeg essential oils (Myristica fragrans Houtt) was determined by DPPH (1,1-difenil-2-pikrihidrazil) assay. The DPPH assay showed that arillus essential oil (AMFH) has the highest antioxidant activity with the IC50 values was 216,695 ppm. The chemical composition of the AMFH was perfomed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS), and the results showed that AMFH contains Terpinen-4-ol (T-4-ol), α-Terpineol (α-T), Safrole (Saf) and Myristicin (Myr) with the percentage area of 11.20%; 1.83%; 5.10%; and 27.80% respectively. The AMFH was isolated by column chromatography and four fractions were obtained, namely AMFH1; AMFH2; AMFH3; and AMFH4 fractions. The DPPH assay showed that the AMFH3 fraction showed excellent antioxidant activity with the IC50 values of 59.329 ppm. The AMFH3 fraction was than reisolated by using by column chromatography to obtain four subfractions namely AMFH3A; AMFH3B; AMFH3C; and AMFH3D. The DPPH assay showed that the subfraction of AMFH3A has the highest antioxidant activity with the IC50 values of 98.993 ppm. The antibacterial activity of AMFH3A subfractions was evaluated by Kirby Bauer-Disc diffusion method, and the results showed that AMFH3A subfraction showed slightly higher activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus with the diameter inhibition of 14.28 mm and 12.26 mm respectively. The chemical composition of the AMFH3A subfraction was performed by GC-MS, and the results showed that AMFH3A subfraction contains Terpinen-4-ol (T-4-ol), α-Terpineol (α-T), Safrole (Saf) and Myristicin (Myr) with the percentage area of 14.37%; 2.16%; 7.36%; and 54.77% respectively.

Comprehensive Phytochemical Profile of Leaves, Stems and Fruits from Orthopterygium huaucui (A. Gray) Hemsl. and their Antioxidant Activities.

Orthopterygium huaucui, commonly known as "Pate", is a medicinal shrub belonging to the Anacardiaceae family used locally to treat burns and stomach pains. Endemic to Peru, chemical studies on O. huaucui are limited. In this study, Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography Quadrupole/Orbitrap Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC Q/Orbitrap/ESI/MS/MS) was used to identify secondary metabolites in leaves, stems and fruits, and the antioxidant capacities of the different parts were compared. In addition, several compounds such as methyl gallate, gallic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, and quercetin 3-O-β-glucuronide were successfully isolated from the methanolic extract of the leaves of this species for the first time. Untargeted UHPLC Q/Orbitrap/ESI/MS/MS analysis tentatively identified seventy-six compounds in the different parts of the plant, showing that this species as an interesting source of flavonoids, procyanidins and tannins. The phenolic content in leaves and stems was 334.31±4.34 and 295.18±6.38 gallic acid equivalents/100 g dry plant, respectively, while that of fruits was lower (99.92±5.45 mg/100 g). Leaves had twice the flavonoid content than fruits (210.38±3.85 versus 87.42±3.85 quercetin equivalents/100 g). 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) results indicated high antioxidant activity in all parts, with stems and leaves showing IC50 of 12.8 μg/mL, and fruits showing less activity (IC50=38.6 μg/mL). The Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) test showed higher antioxidant values in the stems (467.82±21.17 μmol Trolox equivalents/100 g). This study provides valuable information on the chemistry of O. huaucui and highlights its antioxidant potential, especially in leaves and stems.

Chemical Constituents and their Nanoemulsion Properties of Ethyl Acetate Crude Extract from Black Galingale Rhizome

Black galingale is a medicinal plant that has medicinal properties. The major constituents found in black galingale rhizomes are flavonoids, which display antioxidant activities. Therefore, in this research, the focus is to isolate and structurally determine bioactive compounds from the ethyl acetate extract of black galingale rhizomes and evaluate their antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, The black galingale rhizomes were extracted by maceration using ethyl acetate as a solvent. the compounds were isolated by column chromatography using hexane: ethyl acetate as an eluent solvent system. The isolated compounds were examined and characterized using FT-IR, UV-Vis, and NMR techniques, examined antioxidant activity by DPPH assay, and antimicrobial activity. From the extraction of ethyl acetate extract, it was found that 4 pure flavonoid compounds could be extracted. The FT-IR spectral data of 4 compounds showed a unique vibration corresponding to OH stretching, CH stretching, C=O stretching, C=C stretching of an aromatic ring, and C-O-C bond. Antioxidant activity testing by DPPH assay found 5-hydroxy-3,7-dimethoxyflavone (1) to have the highest antioxidant activity at 73.79% compared to the standard Trolox with 133.37±1.60 mM. Antimicrobial activity testing found that 3,5,7-trimethoxyflavone (3) showed the best growth inhibition activities against B. megaterium and S.aureus, Moreover, it studies the nanoemulsion properties of 5-hydroxy-3,7-dimethoxyflavone (1) was found stable with a nanoparticle size of 21.1 nm, a zeta potential of-49.7 mV, and has PDI of 0.227. Therefore, this research shows that the extract from black galingale rhizome could be used as an active ingredient in the cosmetics industry.

Correlation of in vitro digestibility with chemical composition and bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds in date pomace and antioxidant potential

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and impact of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the recovery, bioaccessibility, indices, and changes in the bioactive compounds of date pomace. Bioactive compounds were extracted using various solvents. The results revealed that pomace is a rich source of fiber. Methanol was found to be the most effective solvent for extraction of the bioactive compounds. A high recovery index for phenolic and flavonoid compounds and high antioxidant activity were obtained for the sample subjected to mouth-digestion. The bioaccessibility index revealed that a low percentage of phenols and flavonoids was available for absorption in the intestine. The TPC, TFC, and antioxidant activities (DPPH and ABTS) were positively correlated (r = 0.855-0.995) with oral, gastric, and intestinal digestion. Date pomace is an excellent source of bioactive compounds that can be utilized in the formulation of functional foods with health benefits.

Brazil Nut Semi-Defatted Flour Oil: Impact of Extraction Using Pressurized Solvents on Lipid Profile, Bioactive Compounds Composition, and Oxidative Stability.

Brazilian nuts are native to the Amazon rainforest and are considered a non-timber forest-product of extreme economic importance to local populations. This study evaluated the lipid profile, bioactive compounds, and oxidative stability of semi-defatted Brazilian nut flour oil (BNSDFO) obtained using pressurized fluids (n-propane at 40 °C and 2, 4, and 8 MPa or a CO2/n-propane mixture at 40 °C and 12 MPa). A Brazilian nut kernel oil (BNKO) processed by conventional cold pressing was also obtained. The BNKO showed a higher concentration of total phenolic compounds and saturated fatty acids, higher antioxidant activity, and the presence of gallic acid derivatives. The oils extracted using pressurized fluids showed a higher concentration of linoleic acid, β-sitosterol, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The utilization of pressurized n-propane resulted in higher yields (13.7 wt%), and at intermediate pressures (4 MPa), the product showed myricetin 3-O-rhamnoside and higher oxidative stability (OSI, 12 h) than at lower pressures (2 MPa). The CO2/n-propane mixture of pressurized solvents resulted in higher concentrations of squalene (4.5 times), the presence of different phenolic compounds, and a high OSI (12 h) but lower yield (2.2 wt%). In conclusion, oils with better fatty acid profiles (oleic e linoleic acids), phytosterol composition, and suitable radical scavenging activity may be obtained using pressurized fluids and Brazilian nut flour, a byproduct of oil extraction. The mixture of solvents may improve the concentration of squalene, whereas using only n-propane may increase oil yield.

Valorisation of white wine lees: optimisation of subcritical water extraction of antioxidant compounds

This study explored the extraction of antioxidant compounds from white wine lees using subcritical water extraction (SWE). First, SWE was compared to extraction using conventional solvents mixed with water: 50 % methanol, 50 % ethanol and 50 % acetonitrile. The antiradical activity of the extract increased to 12.8 mg TE/g of extract dry matter (DM) using conventional solvents and to 29.2 mg TE/g DM with SWE, compared to the antiradical activity of dried lees, which was 5.7 mg Trolox Equivalent/g of dry matter (mg TE/g DM). Second, SWE conditions were optimised to obtain lees extracts with a high antioxidant activity by applying a Doehlert design and response surface methodology (RSM). The extraction parameters modulated during RSM optimisation were extraction time (t, 15 – 60 min), temperature (T, 100 – 250 °C) and stirring speed (S, 100 – 1000 RPM). Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH and FRAP tests, as well as by measuring the Oxygen Consumption Rate (OCR) of lees extracts. Temperature was found to be the main parameter that had a significant effect on antioxidant activity. The results of the RSM showed the optimal conditions (temperature, duration and speed) for attaining maximum antioxidant activity to be: 240 °C, 15 min and 550 RPM respectively. The best-known antioxidant compounds in white wine lees, Total Polyphenol Content (TPC), Glutathione (GSH) and Total Sulfhydryl groups (TSH) were also quantified. Extracts with the highest antioxidant capacity had the highest TPC and TSH concentrations. In conclusion, this study showed (i) that subcritical water extraction is a green process that has potential as an alternative to using conventional solvents for extracting white wine lees, (ii) the chemical components involved in their antioxidant capacity, and (iii) the potential of the lees for oenological and other industrial applications.

The Effects of Substrates and Sonication Methods on the Antioxidant Activity of Kefir Postbiotics

Sonoporation stimulates cell growth as it improves the permeability of the membrane and increases the uptake of impermeable molecules in the extracellular matrix. We evaluated the effects of substrates (whey, whole, and skim milk) and ultrasonic treatments (ultrasonication and thermosonication) on the antioxidant activity (AA) of water-soluble kefir postbiotics (WSKPs). The samples were evaluated in terms of antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, and ORAC), water-soluble protein content, proteolysis (SDS-PAGE profiles), and cell membrane permeability. The levels of AA in all WSKPs depended on the substrate and method of obtaining them. However, the WSKPs from whey had higher antioxidant activity with DPPH (11.11 mg TE/100 mL), ABTS (12.77 mg TE/100 mL), and FRAP (5.18 mg TE/100 mL). Also, the WSKPs from whey had the highest values for water-soluble protein (1.45–1.32 mg/mL) and proteolysis degree and the lowest percentage of dead cells (11.4–28%). These results suggest that the production of WSKPs from whey might add value to whey production. Furthermore, WSKPs have potential as a functional ingredient in the production of beverages or foods with antioxidant activity.

In vitro anticancer efficacy of Calendula Officinalis extract-loaded chitosan nanoparticles against gastric and colon cancer cells

Objective This study assessed the anticancer activities of Calendula officinalis-loaded chitosan nanoparticles in gastric and colon cancer cells compared with fibroblast cells and examined the balance between ROS and antioxidants. Methods Considering this information, we synthesized Calendula officinalis-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CO-CSNPs) via the ionic gelation method. Their characterizations were carried out with ZetaSizer, UV-Vis, FTIR and SEM devices including size, morphology and surface zeta potential analysis, loading capacity, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro drug release, and chemical interactions. The anticancer activities of CO, CSNPs, and CO-CSNPs were tested against AGS, Caco-2, and normal NIH-3T3 cells using an XTT assay. The anticancer effects were evaluated using DAPI staining, scratch assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection and the CUPRAC method on cellular and non-cellular processes that promote anticancer mechanisms. Results Results showed that CO and CO-CNPs exhibited anticancer activity against AGS and Caco-2. Further, the formulation of CO with CSNPs enhanced the anticancer activity of CO while having no cytotoxicity on NIH-3T3. DAPI staining, scratch assay, ROS, and CUPRAC method confirmed the anticancer activity of CO and CO-CSNPs, which resulted in a reduction in the number of apoptotic cells, inhibited migration, triggered apoptotic pathway via ROS, and higher antioxidant activity. Conclusions The results of the study indicate that CO-CSNPs are a promising therapeutic formulation for gastric and colon cancer treatment. We consider that this study will lead to the investigation of molecular mechanisms of CO-CSNPs in cancer treatment and their investigation in clinical studies.

Growth, Biochemical Traits, Antioxidant Enzymes, and Essential Oils of Four Aromatic and Medicinal Plants Cultivated in Phosphate-Mine Residues.

Revegetation emerges as a promising approach to alleviate the adverse impacts of mining residues. However, it is essential to evaluate the characteristics of these materials and select suitable plant species to ensure successful ecosystem restoration. This study aimed to investigate the effects of phosphate-mine residues (MR) on the growth, biochemical properties, and essential oil concentration of Rosmarinus officinalis L., Salvia Officinalis L., Lavandula dentata L., and Origanum majorana L. The results showed that R. officinalis L. appeared to be particularly well-suited to thriving in MR soil. Our finding also revealed that L. dentata L., O. majorana L., and S. officinalis L. grown in MR exhibited significantly lower growth performance (lower shoot length, smaller leaves, and altered root structure) and higher antioxidant activities, with an alterations of photosynthetic pigment composition. They showed a decrease in total chlorophylls when grown on MR (0.295, 0.453, and 0.562 mg g-1 FW, respectively) compared to the control (0.465, 0.807, and 0.808 mg g-1 FW, respectively); however, they produced higher essential oil content (1.8%, 3.06%, and 2.88%, respectively). The outcomes of this study could offer valuable insights for the advancement of revegetation technologies and the utilization of plant products derived from phosphate-mine residues.

The genomics and physiology of abiotic stressors associated with global elevational gradients in Arabidopsis thaliana

Summary Phenotypic and genomic diversity in Arabidopsis thaliana may be associated with adaptation along its wide elevational range, but it is unclear whether elevational clines are consistent among different mountain ranges. We took a multi‐regional view of selection associated with elevation. In a diverse panel of ecotypes, we measured plant traits under alpine stressors (low CO2 partial pressure, high light, and night freezing) and conducted genome‐wide association studies. We found evidence of contrasting locally adaptive regional clines. Western Mediterranean ecotypes showed low water use efficiency (WUE)/early flowering at low elevations to high WUE/late flowering at high elevations. Central Asian ecotypes showed the opposite pattern. We mapped different candidate genes for each region, and some quantitative trait loci (QTL) showed elevational and climatic clines likely maintained by selection. Consistent with regional heterogeneity, trait and QTL clines were evident at regional scales (c. 2000 km) but disappeared globally. Antioxidants and pigmentation rarely showed elevational clines. High elevation east African ecotypes might have higher antioxidant activity under night freezing. Physiological and genomic elevational clines in different regions can be unique, underlining the complexity of local adaptation in widely distributed species, while hindering global trait–environment or genome–environment associations. To tackle the mechanisms of range‐wide local adaptation, regional approaches are thus warranted.