Hydroxyl Free Radical Scavenging Research Articles

Antioxidant effects and potential molecular mechanism of action of Diplocyclos palmatus (L.) C. Jeffrey fruits based on systematic network pharmacology with experimental validation

Oxidative stress arises from an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the ability of biological systems to detoxify these reactive intermediates or repair the resulting damage. Diplocyclos palmatus (D. palmatus) is a medicinal plant, whose fruits has been reported to have antioxidant activity due to its potent bioactive compounds, and holds promise for mitigating oxidative stress and its associated diseases. Therefore, this study aims to elucidate the bioactive compounds present in D. palmatus via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis and evaluate their antioxidant activity via different in-vitro antioxidant assays such as, DPPH free radical scavenging assay, ABTS radical scavenging assay, ferric reducing antioxidant power assay, hydroxyl free radical scavenging assay and reactive nitrogen oxide scavenging assay. Furthermore, systematic network pharmacology, molecular docking and molecular dynamics were utilized to identify major bioactive compounds and their interactions with key proteins implicated in oxidative stress to understand the molecular mechanism of action of D. palmatus fruits. The obtained results indicated that the fruit extract had highest antioxidant activity against hydroxyl free radicals (IC50 = 476.76 µg/mL) followed by nitric oxide radicals (IC50 = 509.06 µg/mL), DPPH• (IC50 = 601.88 µg/mL), ABTS•+ (IC50 = 709.37 µg/mL) and FRAP (IC50 = 1141.76 µg/mL). In network pharmacology analysis, bioactive compounds of D. palmatus fruits were found to target numerous major cellular proteins (AKT1, GAPDH, ALB, CASP3, PTGS2, PPARG, STAT3, EGFR, ESR1 and MMP9), with a notable impact on the estrogen signaling pathway. Molecular docking and dynamics analysis further validated the antioxidant potential of D. palmatus fruits. Overall, this integrative study sheds light on the antioxidant potential of D. palmatus fruits and elucidates the molecular mechanisms underpinning their antioxidative actions. These findings not only deepen the understanding of D. palmatus phytochemistry, but also highlight its therapeutic potential as a natural antioxidant agent for combating oxidative stress-related disorders.

Physicochemical and antioxidant properties of pectin fractions extracted from lemon (Citrus Eureka) peels

Pectin, a natural polysaccharide, holds versatile applications in food and pharmaceuticals. However, there is a need for further exploration into extracting novel functional fractions and characterizing them thoroughly. In this study, a sequential extraction approach was used to obtain three distinct lemon pectin (LP) fractions from lemon peels (Citrus Eureka): LP extracted with sodium acetate (LP-SA), LP extracted with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (LP-EDTA), and LP extracted with sodium carbonate and sodium borohydride (LP-SS). Comprehensive analysis revealed low methyl-esterification in all fractions. LP-SA and LP-SS displayed characteristics of rhamnogalacturonan-I type pectin, while LP-EDTA mainly consisted of homogalacturonan pectin. Notably, LP-SA formed self-aggregated particles with rough surfaces, LP-EDTA showed interlocking linear structures with smooth planes, and LP-SS exhibited branch chain structures with smooth surfaces. Bioactivity analysis indicated that LP-SA had significant apparent viscosity and ABTS radical scavenging activity, while both LP-EDTA and LP-SS showed excellent thermal stability according to thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Furthermore, LP-SS exhibited remarkable gel-forming ability and significant hydroxyl free radicals scavenging activity. In conclusion, this study presents a novel method for extracting various lemon pectin fractions with unique structural and bioactive properties, contributing insights for advanced applications in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.

Protective Effect of Panax notoginseng Extract Fermented by Four Different Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strains on H2O2 Induced Oxidative Stress in Skin Fibroblasts.

To produce Panax notoginseng extract as a cosmetic ingredient through Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation. We first compared the total sugar content, polysaccharide content, reducing sugar content, total phenolic content, total saponin content, DPPH free radical, ABTS free radical, hydroxyl free radical scavenging ability and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) of Panax notoginseng fermented extract (pnFE) and unfermented extract (pnWE). Their potential correlations were analyzed by Pearson's correlation analysis. Then, the oxidative stress model of H2O2-induced MSFs was used to evaluate the effects of different pnFE on MSF viability, reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and the activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) to explore their protective effects on MSFs subjected to H2O2-induced cellular oxidative damage. Finally, their safety and stability were evaluated by using the red blood cell (RBC) test and hen's egg test-chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) assay, and changes in pH and content of soluble solids, respectively. Compared with pnWE, pnFE has more active substances and stronger antioxidant capacity. In addition, pnFE has a protective effect on H2O2-induced oxidative stress in MSFs with appropriate safety and stability. PnFE has broad application prospects in the field of cosmetics.

Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis and Characterization of Some Aldehyde Derivatives of Imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3,4]thiadiazole: Crystal Structure Insights, In‐Silico and Biological Studies

AbstractThe microwave‐assisted synthesis, crystallographic studies, in‐silico docking and the evaluation of in‐vitro biological activities of 2‐(3,4‐dimethoxy)‐6‐(substituted phenyl)‐ imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3,4]thiadiazole‐5‐carbaldehydes is represented here. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction experiments were used to identify the crystal structure of the 6‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐(3,4‐dimethoxybenzyl)imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3,4]thiadiazole‐5‐carbaldehyde. Using fingerprint plots, Hirshfeld surface analysis was used to confirm the contributions of distinct intermolecular interactions in the development of the crystal packing. Further, density functional theory calculations were employed to calculate the molecule's electronic properties. The chemically active regions on the molecule are identified by analysing the molecular electrostatic potential map. in‐silico studies revealed that the molecules can be effectively used as antibacterial agents by taking the 3q82 receptor with chloramphenicol as a standard. As compared to the chloramphenicol standard, in‐vitro tests showed that molecules 4 a, 4 b, 4 c, and 4 f had a zone of inhibition that ranged from 9 to 11 mm against both Gram‐positive (Bacillus subtilis) and Gram‐negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration was between 40 to 70 μg/ml. These compounds′ Hydroxyl free radical scavenging activity was between 40 to 85 %. Whereas, DPPH radical scavenging activity was between 40 and 70 %. Percentage hemolysis or cell protective activity of the compounds was ineffective at 20–40 %.

FREE RADICAL SCAVENGING ACTIVITY OF PLEUROTUS OSTREATUS AGAINST CCL4-INDUCED HEPATIC DAMAGE IN WISTER RATS

Objective: The present study was aimed to evaluate the anti-oxidant effect of Pleurotus ostreatus using in vitro and in vivo methodology. Methods: Methanolic extract of Pleurotus ostreatus (MEPO) was prepared by cold maceration technique. Rats weighing 150-200 g were divided into 6 groups of six each (n=6). Group I served as control (0.9% Nacl), group II was considered as the positive control, administered with CCl4 dissolved in olive oil (intraperitoneal injection at 0.5 mg/kg body weight), group III was given with CCl4+standard drug sylimarin (100 mg/kg body weight, p. o.), group IV, V and VI were administered with CCl4+MEPO at 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg orally for a period of 21 d. The liver injury was induced by the administration of CCl4 intraperitoneally with a single dose of CCl4 (0.5 mg/kg body weight) as a 1:1 (v/v) solution in olive oil. Results: In the Hydroxyl free radical scavenging assay, the IC50 values of the test extract was found to be 72.1±1.68 as compared with the standard drug (IC50-66.3±1.02), which was considered as significant (***p<0.001). In the reducing power assay, all the absorbance values were comparable to standard ascorbic acid and showed maximum reducing ability at the concentration of 500 µg/ml. In the in vivo anti-oxidant study, administration of MEPO to injury-induced rats at the dose of 400 and 800 mg/kg, significantly increased (**p<0.001) the levels of SOD and CAT, with a significant reduction in the MDA levels. Conclusion: The current study explored a potential source for anti-oxidants in the methanolic extract of Pleurotus ostreatus, thus seems to be protective to liver in CCl4-induced hepatic injury.

Effect of hermetic storage on the development of hard-to-cook characteristics and nutritional properties of mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.)

Mungbean and cowpea samples were stored in hermetic PET-bottles and common polybags at room temperature. After 0, 2, 4, and 6 months of storage, the samples were tested for gas composition, grain hardness, cooking time, proximate composition, free fatty acid (FFA) content, phytic acid content, oxalic acid content and antioxidant properties. The oxygen content of the mungbean and cowpea samples dropped to 7.5 ± 1.7% and 10.7 ± 0.8%, respectively, within 30 days of storage in the hermetic condition compared to control. Samples stored in polybags showed a significant increase in grain hardness and cooking-time compared to the initial samples. In contrast, the grain hardness and cooking time of hermetic samples remained within acceptable levels. The FFA values of the mungbean and cowpea samples in polybags increased by approximately 33% and 40%, respectively, after 6 months. The FFA values increased by 7.5% in mungbean and 11% in cowpea stored hermetically, which was 4 times lower than the polybag-stored samples. After 6 months, the phytic acid content of the grain samples stored in PET-bottles and polybags decreased by approximately 15% and 26%, respectively. Similarly, the oxalic acid contents were also reduced in mungbean and cowpea samples stored in polybags by 14–29% compared to the hermetic samples (2–10%). The results showed that the total phenolic content of grain samples stored in polybags was approximately 32% higher compared to grain samples stored in hermetic PET-bottles and 53% higher compared to the initial samples. These results indicated that significantly lower tendency for the development of hard-to-cook defects in grain samples stored in hermetic PET-bottles. DPPH and hydroxyl free radical scavenging activities showed a significant increase with storage time in both mungbean and cowpea samples regardless of storage method. These results revealed that hermetic storage helps to prevent the development of hard-to-cook characteristics of mungbean and cowpea.

Myricetin causes site-specific DNA damage via reactive oxygen species generation by redox interactions with copper ions.

Myricetin (MYR), found in tea and berries, may have preventive effects on diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and cancer. However, MYR is also a mutagen, inducing DNA damage in the presence of metal ions. We have studied the molecular mechanisms of DNA damage by MYR in the presence of Cu(II) (MYR+Cu). Using 32P-5'-end-labeled DNA fragments, we analyzed site-specific DNA damage caused by MYR+Cu. MYR+Cu caused concentration-dependent DNA strand breaks and base alterations, leading to cleavage of DNA at thymine, cytosine, and guanine nucleotides. Formation of the oxidative DNA damage indicator, 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG), in calf thymus DNA was increased by MYR+Cu. The production of 8-oxodG in MYR-treated HL-60 cells was significantly higher than in HP100 cells, which are more resistant to H2O2 than are HL-60 cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers were used to elucidate the mechanism of DNA damage. DNA damage was not inhibited by typical free hydroxyl radical (•OH) scavengers such as ethanol, mannitol, or sodium formate. However, methional, catalase, and bathocuproine inhibited DNA damage induced by MYR+Cu. These results suggest that H2O2, Cu(I), and ROS other than •OH are involved in MYR+Cu-induced DNA damage. We conclude that the Cu(I)/Cu(II) redox cycle and concomitant H2O2 production via autoxidation of MYR generate a complex of H2O2 and Cu(I), probably Cu(I)-hydroperoxide, which induces oxidative DNA damage.

Evaluation of the Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Cytotoxic Effects of Chitosan Thiocolchicoside-Lauric Acid Nanogel.

The present study explored the anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic effects of a combination of chitosan thiocolchicoside and lauric acid (CTLA) nanogel. Materials and methods: A nanogel formulation of thiocolchicoside and lauric acid was developed and tested for potential applications. The antimicrobial activity was assessed using the well diffusion method, while the antioxidant activity was evaluated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) antioxidant assay methods. The anti-inflammatory activity was determined through the egg albumin denaturation method, the bovine serum albumin denaturation method, and the membrane stabilization assay. A brine shrimp lethality assay was used to study the cytotoxic effect of the nanogel. We identified significant positive outcomes for the CTLAnanogel. The results showed a percentage of inhibition of 81% at 50μg/mL, which showed the nanogel's significant anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting bovine serum albumin denaturation. The anti-inflammatory properties of the nanogel were comparable to the standard diclofenac sodium at all tested concentrations. The egg albumin denaturation assay results revealed a percentage inhibition of 76% at 50 μg/mL. In the membrane stabilization assay, a percentage inhibition of86%was obtained at a concentration of 50 μg/mL against 89% for the standard drug. The nanogel exhibited a zone of inhibition of 20 mm against Streptococcus mutans and 22 mm with a dilution of 100 µg/mL of CTLA nanogel against Staphylococcus aureus. The antioxidant activity was studied by using the DPPH method, 50 μg/ml has an 89% inhibition, which was similar to the standard. The inhibitory activity of CTLAnanogel at 50 μg/ml was81.6%in the hydroxyl free radical scavenging assay, which was comparable to the standard drug. At 5 μg/mL concentration of CTLA nanogel, approximately 90% of the nauplii remained alive after 48 hours. The CTLAnanogel showed excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties suggesting its potential for managing inflammatory conditions and oxidative stress-related disorders.

Antioxidative and ROS-dependent apoptotic effects of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. stem against human lung cancer: network pharmacology and in vitro experimental validation

Lung cancer remains a formidable global health challenge, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. This study investigates the potential of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. stem extract as an anticancer agent against human lung cancer, focusing on its antioxidative and ROS-dependent apoptotic effects. Utilizing a combination of network pharmacology and in-vitro experimental validation, we delineate the multifaceted molecular mechanisms underlying the observed effects. The antioxidant potential of C. reflexa stem extract was evaluated by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), 2,2-azinobis (3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•+) and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP), hydroxyl free radical scavenging, reactive nitrogen oxide scavenging and super oxide anion radical scavenging assays. Furthermore, the antiproliferative and proapoptotic effect of C. reflexa stem extract was evaluated against A549 lung adenocarcinoma cell line using the consecrated sulforhodamine B (SBR) and Annexin V-PI assays. Additionally, the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and the total reactive oxygen species (ROS) estimation assays were performed. As a result, network pharmacology analysis revealed a complex interaction network between the bioactive constituents of C. reflexa and key proteins implicated in lung cancer progression. The C. reflexa stem extract showed dose-dependent antioxidant activity against DPPH• (IC50 − 87.38 µg/mL), reactive nitrogen oxide (IC50 − 318.34 µg/mL), FRAP (IC50 − 359.96 µg/mL), hydroxy free radicals (IC50 − 526.12 µg/mL) than ABTS●+ (IC50 − 698.45 µg/mL) and super oxide anion (IC50 − 892.71 µg/mL) as well as cytotoxic activity against A549 cells (IC50 − 436.80 µg/mL). Observations of morphological features in treated cells have revealed hallmark of apoptosis properties. Furthermore, as a result of treatment with C. reflexa stem extract, ROS generation and mitochondrial depolarization were increased in A549 cells, suggesting that this treatment has significant apoptotic properties. . These findings highlight the potential utility of this natural extract as an innovative therapeutic strategy for lung cancer treatment. The integration of network pharmacology and experimental validation enhances our understanding of the underlying mechanisms and provide the way for further translational research. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

Anticholinesterase and antioxidant activity of Drynaria quercifolia and its ameliorative effect in scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice

Ethnopharmacological relevanceDrynaria quercifolia is an epiphytic fern distributed all over Bangladesh with traditional use in treating neurological disorders and other ailments. Although several pharmacological activities of D. quercifolia have been investigated, the neuroprotective potential of this plant is still unexplored. Aim of studyIn this study, we evaluated the in vitro anticholinesterase and antioxidant activities of D. quercifolia and the neuroprotective effect in scopolamine-induced memory-impaired mouse model. Materials and methodsThe crude methanol extract (DCM) of the plant was fractionated to prepare n-hexane (DHF), chloroform (DCF), ethyl acetate (DEF), and aqueous (DAF) factions. All the fractions were evaluated for anticholinesterase activity by modified Ellman's method and the antioxidant activity by several in vitro assays such as DPPH and hydroxyl free radicals scavenging, reducing power, and inhibition of brain lipid peroxidation. The effect of the most active fractions (both DCF and DEF) on learning and memory was assessed in scopolamine-induced mouse model of memory-impairment by Morris water maze tasks. Biochemical assays were performed in brain tissue. The active compound was isolated and characterized by chromatographic, spectroscopic, and molecular docking methods. ResultsPhytochemical analysis demonstrated a high content of phenolic and flavonoid in DEF. In vitro studies revealed a strong antioxidant power of DEF and anticholinesterase activity of DCF. Both the DCF and DEF significantly (P˂0.05) reduced the escape latency time in the Morris's water maze tasks, and increased the time spent in the northeast quadrant in the probe trial. Biochemical data demonstrated that treatment with DCF and DEF at different doses significantly (P˂0.0001) inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity, restored GSH levels, and reduced MDA levels in the brain of scopolamine-induced memory-impaired mice, indicating the protective effect of D. quercifolia, possibly by acetylcholinesterase inhibition and oxidative stress prevention. Chromatographic methods of separation led to he isolation of catechin and protocatechuric acid from DEF and 3,4-dihydroxy benzoic acid from DCF. The structure of the compounds was determined by studies of their 1H-NMR spectra. Molecular docking as well as in vitro study suggests the anticholinesterase and antioxidant activity of the isolated compounds. ConclusionOur study suggested that the extracts of D. quercifolia, due to anticholinesterase and antioxidant activity, ameliorate the scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice and thus may represent therapeutics in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Antioxidant activity of coatings containing eugenol for flexible aluminium foils to preserve food shelf-life

Active food packaging is an innovative system that avoids food deterioration ensuring quality, safety and shelf-life extension of food. Herein, two novel eugenol vinyl-based resins were used for coating flexible aluminium foils with potential packaging applications. Coatings were prepared with single eugenol or loaded eugenol in Santa Barbara Amorphous15 (SBA-15) mesoporous silica nanoparticles, and their antioxidant activity was investigated by DPPH, ABTS, ORAC, TBARS assays and by the hydroxyl free radicals’ generator method with HPLC analysis. Antioxidant activity was also evaluated exposing the coatings to various food simulants. Both coatings revealed adequate antioxidant capacity when exposed to fatty food simulants and to vapour phase hydroxyl free radicals (scavenging > 50%). The incorporation of eugenol in SBA-15 reduced its release to 65%, promoting eugenol beneficial antioxidant effects over time. The release of eugenol from the coatings into food simulants is not required for the activity of free radical scavenging.

Effects of Different Cooking Methods on Phenol Content and Antioxidant Activity in Sprouted Peanut.

Peanut sprout is a high-quality healthy food, which not only has beneficial effects, but also a higher phenol content than peanut seed. In this study, peanut sprout was treated with five cooking methods, namely boiling, steaming, microwave heating, roasting, and deep-frying, and the phenol content, monomeric phenol composition, and antioxidant activity were determined. The results showed that, compared with unripened peanut sprout, the total phenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) decreased significantly after the five ripening processes, and the highest retention of phenols and flavonoids was associated with microwave heating (82.05% for TPC; 85.35% for TFC). Compared with unripened peanut sprout, the monomeric phenol composition in germinated peanut was variable after heat processing. After microwave heating, except for a significant increase in the cinnamic acid content, no changes in the contents of resveratrol, ferulic acid, sinapic acid, and epicatechin were observed. Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation of TPC and TFC with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging capacity, 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) scavenging capacity, and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power in germinated peanut, but not with hydroxyl free radical scavenging capacity, in which the main monomer phenolic compounds were resveratrol, catechin, and quercetin. The research results indicate that microwave heating can effectively retain the phenolic substances and antioxidant activity in germinated peanuts, making it a more suitable ripening and processing method for germinated peanuts.

Extraction, characterization, haematocompatibility and antioxidant activity of linseed polysaccharide

The present research intends at investigating the extraction and characterization of linseed polysaccharide to explore its haematocompatibility and antioxidant properties. In this research, a light brown colored, odorless, tasteless, and aqueous-soluble polysaccharide was extracted (with a yield of 20.77%) from linseed powder of mature and ripe seeds (obtained from the plant- Linum usitatisimum, family- Liliaceae). The pH was measured 7.10 ± 0.50 and the viscosity was found 26.04 ± 1.43 cps. The results of phytochemical identification tests revealed the occurrences of carbohydrate as well as mucilage in the extracted linseed polysaccharide. The obtained results of ash values signified the purity of extracted linseed polysaccharide. The extracted polysaccharide was characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy, 1H NMR spectroscopy, and P-XRD analysis. The in vitro haematocompatibility testing of extracted linseed polysaccharide indicated its nonhaemolytic (with haemolysis percentage of 1.20%) and nonthrombogenic (with clot weight of 0.060 ± 0.011 g and thrombus percentage of 13.88 %) in nature. The in vitro antioxidant activity (DPPH free radical scavenging, ABTS free radical scavenging, and hydroxyl free radical scavenging assays) results clearly indicated its stronger antioxidant action in terms of good radical scavenging. The extracted linseed polysaccharide can be used as a natural antioxidant.

Products and Properties of Components from Heat-Denatured Peanut Meal Following Solid-State Fermentation by Aspergillus oryzae and Saccharomyces cerevisiae

In heat-denatured peanut meal (HDPM), proteins are denatured and polysaccharides are degraded and browned. It can only be used as feed or fertilizer, and not using it as such is a waste of resources. To achieve high-value HDPM use, solid-state fermentation by Aspergillus oryzae and Saccharomyces cerevisiae was investigated. Conditions were optimized by response surface methodology and high-value antioxidant peptides (APs), nonstarch polysaccharides (NSPs), and fermentation products of heat-denatured peanut meal (FHDPM) were obtained. Optimal culture conditions were strain ratio 6:5, inoculation volume 2 mL, and fermentation for 42 h at 35 °C. Under optimal conditions, the theoretical soluble nitrogen concentration, 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging rate, hydroxyl free radical scavenging rate, and NSP yield reached 44.78 mg/mL, 62.44%, 94.95%, and 3.73%, respectively; however, their experimental values were 46.80 ± 1.23 mg/mL, 72.18 ± 0.78%, 96.79 ± 0.55%, and 4.42 ± 0.21%, respectively. NSPs, Aps, and FHDPM exhibited four higher classes and eight types of antioxidant activities. Moreover, levels of amino acids and trace elements, and physicochemical properties including emulsion activity index, emulsion stability index, foam capacity, foam stability, water holding capacity, and oil absorption capacity were enhanced by fermentation. The results indicate that APs and NSPs could serve as promising natural antioxidants in the food industry, and FHDPM could be used as a new type of high-value nutritional product in the feed industry. The findings provide new insight for comprehensive processing and utilization of HDPM.

Extraction, Characterization, and Antioxidant Activity of Polysaccharides from Ajwa Seed and Flesh

The date palm has been cultivated in dry and hot areas of the planet for much of human history. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, dates are the main crop used as a source of food. Among several species of date fruits, the Ajwa AL-Madinah date is unique, growing only in Al-Madinah geographical region. The Ajwa date is used in traditional medicine due to its abundant active components and therapeutic properties. This study investigates the structural properties and the antioxidant effects of water-soluble polysaccharides extracted from Ajwa flesh and seed. The polysaccharides were isolated by two techniques including hot water and ultrasonic extraction. After isolation and partial purification, the physicochemical properties of four samples of polysaccharides extracted from flesh and seed were studied by several techniques including FTIR, solid-state NMR, elemental analysis, and mass spectrometry. Several radical scavenging experiments were combined to study the antioxidant activity of the polysaccharide compounds. FTIR and NMR results showed a structure typical of heterogeneous polysaccharides. Mass spectrometry revealed that the polysaccharide samples were composed mainly of mannose, glucose, galactose, xylose, arabinose, galacturonic acid, and fucose. In addition, the physicochemical properties and composition of polysaccharides extracted from flesh and seed were compared. The extracted polysaccharides showed antioxidant activity, with 2, 2′-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging, Fe chelating ability, hydroxyl free radical scavenging ability, and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging. These results highlight their potential to be a useful nutritional element or supplemental medication.

Effect of High Efficiency Digestion and Utilization of Organic Iron Made by Saccharomyces cerevisiae on Antioxidation and Caecum Microflora in Weaned Piglets.

Organic iron is expected to replace inorganic iron used in diets as an iron source. Organic iron possesses high absorption efficiency and low fecal iron excretion. This study aims to study the effect of organic iron produced by Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast iron) on digestion, utilization, antioxidation and caecum microflora in weaned piglets. In total, 20 piglets that had been weaned after 28 days were divided into 4 groups, each of which followed a different basal diet. The basal diet of each of these 4 groups contained, respectively, 104 mg/kg iron (ferrous sulfate, CON), 84 mg/kg iron (yeast iron, LSC), 104 mg/kg iron (yeast iron, MSC) or 124 mg/kg iron (yeast iron, HSC). This experiment lasted 35 d. The apparent digestibility of iron in LSC, MSC and HMS was higher than that in CON (p < 0.01) and the fecal iron content in LSC, MSC and HMS was lower than that in CON (p < 0.01). Serum iron contents in LSC, MSC and HMS were higher than that in CON (p < 0.01). The iron contents of the heart, lungs, liver, kidney and left gluteus muscle in the MSC and HMS groups were higher than that in CON and LSC (p < 0.05). Serum catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase activity, superoxide anion, glutathione, hydroxyl free radical scavenging rate, total antioxidant capacity, and liver superoxide anion clearance rate and peroxidase in MSC and HMS were higher than that in CON and LSC (p < 0.05). The contents of nitric oxide and peroxide of the weaned piglets in MSC and HMS were lower than that in CON and LSC (p < 0.05). The abundance of Firmicutes, Blautia and Peptococcus in LSC, HSC and MSC was higher than that in CON (p < 0.01). The abundance of Lactobacillus in CON and LSC was higher than that in MSC and HSC (p < 0.01). The abundance of Acinetobacter, Streptococcus and Prevotella in LSC, MSC and HSC was lower than that in CON (p < 0.01). The results suggested that a diet containing 84 mg/kg iron of yeast iron has the same effect as a diet containing 104 mg/kg iron of ferric sulfate, and that a diet containing 104 or 124 mg/kg iron of yeast iron is superior to a diet containing 104 mg/kg iron of ferric sulfate.

Extraction Optimization and Antioxidant Activities of Ethanol Extract of the Brown Roll-Rim Mushroom Paxillus involutus (Agaricomycetes).

Box Behnken design (BBD) was used to optimize the extraction of Paxillus involutus (EPI) in ethanol. The optimum extraction conditions were as follows: temperature 45°C; solid:liquid ratio 1:35; time 5 h. Under these conditions, the yield of EPI was 13.57%. The antioxidant activity of EPI was evaluated in vitro, and DPPH free radical scavenging, ABTS free radical scavenging, and hydroxyl free radical scavenging effects were found to be equal to or close to that of the positive control vitamin C (VC). The antioxidant activity of EPI was next evaluated in vivo using aging mice; it was found to have appreciable effect on scavenging malonic dialdehyde (MDA) and could increase the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) in mice. Overall, EPI showed antioxidant effects in aging mice, thereby delaying aging, and has potential for application as a natural antioxidant and in medical applications.

Mechanistic study of electrooxidation of coexisting chloramphenicol and natural organic matter: Performance, DFT calculation and removal route

The electrooxidation performance of coexisting chloramphenicol (CAP) and natural organic matter (NOM) by Ti4O7 anode was systematically investigated in this study. Intrinsic reaction kinetics showed that the removal of CAP followed pseudo-first-order kinetics, 72.42 ± 0.20 % removal with 40.79 ± 0.41 % mineralization rate of CAP was achieved in 60 min using 5 mA cm−2. The oxidation mechanisms of CAP were elucidated by density functional theory (DFT) simulations and experiments involving hydroxyl free radical (•OH) scavenger, which indicated that the efficient degradation of CAP was attributed to the combined action of •OH attack and direct electron transfer (DET) reaction. The degradation pathway of CAP was proposed based on frontier electron densities (FEDs) calculation and intermediate products identification, and less ecological risks of CAP degradation solution were also proved by acute toxicity test. Humic acid (HA), selected as the typical NOM, could inhibit the degradation of CAP to a certain extent by competitive action for electrooxidation with effective removal and mineralization of HA, which was further confirmed based on real wastewater treatment experiments. Specifically, the degree of humification and aromaticity of HA was weakened, and some complex small molecular organic matters such as aromatic proteins were generated. These findings proved the feasibility of Ti4O7 anode electrooxidation to remove CAP antibiotics and organic matter from water, in consideration of the potential negative role of CAP and organic matter for ecological environment and human health.

Feruloyl oligosaccharides, isolated from bacterial fermented wheat bran, exhibit antioxidant effects in IPEC-J2 cells and zebrafish model.

Feruloyl oligosaccharides (FOs) were produced by solid-state fermentation of wheat bran using Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and its antioxidant activity was investigated using IPEC-J2 cells and zebrafish embryo model. Preliminary structure analysis revealed that FOs has an average molecular weight of 11.81 kDa and consists of mannose, ribose, rhamnose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, xylose, arabinose, and fucose. The obtained FOs possess superior reducing power and DPPH and hydroxyl free radical scavenging activities. In IPEC-J2 cells, antioxidant enzymes activities and GSH level were significantly increased, while MDA level was reduced by FOs. Further studies showed that FOs achieved the aforementioned effects by activating Nrf2 signaling pathway. In zebrafish embryo, FOs effectively suppressed ROS production, lipid peroxidation, and cell death by increasing SOD and GSH-Px activities. Our findings suggested that FOs from solid-state fermented wheat bran with mixed bacteria can be used as an antioxidant food additive or drugs.

Antioxidant and aflatoxin B1 adsorption properties of Eucheuma cottonii insoluble dietary fiber

The residue of Eucheuma cottonii after extracting carrageenan contained up to 90% insoluble dietary fiber, so it could be used as an excellent source of dietary fiber. To improve its performance, the E. cottonii insoluble dietary fiber (EIDF) was superfine pulverized to get five samples ranging from 40 to 300 mesh (E40–E300). The particle structure of E100–E300 became loose and more pores exposed; meanwhile, their crystallinity decreased from 53.60% to 43.86–43.40%. Antioxidant activity determination showed that EIDF had extremely strong hydroxyl free radical scavenging ability with the scavenging rate of all EIDFs higher than 97%. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) adsorption study showed that superfine EIDF had better aflatoxin adsorption capacity, especially E100. It could adsorb 82.5% aflatoxin within 15 min when loading 2 μg AFB1/mL and the adsorption conformed to pseudo second-order kinetic model, suggesting the chemisorption. When loading up to 20 μg AFB1/mL, its adsorption capacity reached 0.789 mg/g, showing favorable adsorption on homogeneous surface. The adsorption was most effective at pH 7.0 and 25 °C. Thereby, the superfine EIDF is an excellent AFB1 adsorbent and antioxidant and may have potential applications in food, feed and medicine.