Phytochemical Compounds Research Articles

Microwave-assisted green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using turnip root (Brassica rapa subsp. Rapa) extract and their antibacterial efficacy

Biosynthesised silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), especially those synthesised by plant extracts, are extensively utilised in the fields of pharmacy and medicine due to their ability to exhibit a wide range of biological functions. The current study is focused on the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from various concentrated silver nitrate solutions using turnip root extract as a reducing and stabilising agent and to assess the in vitro antibacterial efficacy of these AgNPs. For the study, we employed microwave-assisted reduction to examine the impact of microwave energy on the resulting AgNPs in comparison to the conventional heating method. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed the crystalline nature of the as-prepared AgNPs, while field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) showed the majority of spherical-shaped AgNPs had an average grain size of 47.5 nm. Energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) indicates the high weight percentage of the produced AgNPs than for extract residue, especially for the AgNPs that are prepared with microwave assistance. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to reveal the functional groups that are related to many phytochemical compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which act as reducing and stabilizing agents. High zeta potential measures (−22.77 and −38.83 mv) approved the high stability of the synthesised AgNPs as higher zeta potentials typically correlate with greater stability. The antibacterial activity behaviour of the produced NPs against gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria was significantly acceptable for both heating techniques, as observed from the measured inhibition zone.

Physical Traits and Phenolic Compound Diversity in Maize Accessions with Blue-Purple Grain (Zea mays L.) of Mexican Races

Consumer interest in foods enriched with phytochemical compounds for health benefits has prompted plant breeders to focus on developing new cultivars with an enhanced content of specific compounds. Studies regarding the exploration of germplasms of species of great economic importance, such as maize, could be useful in this task. This study aimed to assess the physical grain traits and phenolic compound variations (including anthocyanins, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins) in blue-purple maize accessions from various Mexican races. We examined 207 accessions from 21 Mexican maize races, evaluating physical grain traits such as weight of one hundred grains (W100G), endosperm type (ET), pigment location, and grain color. Phenolic composition analysis encompassed total soluble phenolics (TSP), total anthocyanin content (TAC), flavonoids (FLAV), and proanthocyanidins (PAs). The predominant endosperm type was floury, with W100G values indicating a large grain size and the pigment primarily located in the aleurone layer. Among phenolic composition variables, only TSP exhibited a normal distribution, while others skewed towards the left side. A hierarchical analysis of phenolic composition data revealed three distinct groups comprising different numbers of Mexican varieties, with TAC proving the most effective for grouping. Our comprehensive exploration of maize diversity featuring blue-purple grain coloration has led to the identification of novel maize varieties with outstanding phenolic contents.

Prebiotic Effects of Extracts from Pineapple and Curcuma xanthorrhiza Rhizomes towards the Growth of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei

For the past few decades, plant derivatives have much been patronized in multiethnic Malaysia as traditional and complimentary medicines. Plant extracts and their phytochemical compounds have shown remarkable positive impacts on probiotics in gut. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of several plant extracts and their phytochemical compounds on the growth of the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (L. paracasei). Pineapple juice, pineapple waste extract, Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract, mixture of pineapple juice and Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract, inulin and mixture of inulin and bromelain were supplemented to liquid media and tested on L. paracasei at the shake flask scale for cell density, pH, postbiotic metabolites and bioactivities. Among the four extracts tested, Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract exhibited the highest cell density (1.7532) and proteolytic (12.012 U/mL), along with the lowest pH. Pineapple juice also showed a lowest pH value (5.685). The mixture extract demonstrated the highest lactic acid production (538.812% v/v), phenolics (222.494 ppm) and antioxidative capacity (IC50 2.3347). Saccharide utilization was observed for all supplemented media after an 8 hours fermentation process, exceeding 85%. The findings demonstrated that all plant extracts stimulated L. paracasei growth and exhibited prebiotic properties, suggesting their potential commercialization as new functional foods and beverages.

Evaluation of bromocriptine and plumbagin against the monogenean Rhabdosynochus viridisi: Computational drug repositioning and in vitro approaches

Monogeneans are parasitic platyhelminths that can harm the health of farmed fish. Few treatments are available against monogeneans, and the incentive to develop new antiparasitic agents is similar or even lower than the incentive for neglected parasitic diseases in humans. Considering that searching for and developing new antimonogenean compounds may require enormous investments of time, money, and animal sacrifice, the use of a computer-guided drug repositioning approach is a reasonable alternative. Under this context, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of plumbagin and bromocriptine against adults and eggs of the monogenean Rhabdosynochus viridisi (Diplectanidae). Plumbagin is a phytochemical compound that has recently emerged as a potent antimonogenean; however, further investigation is required to determine its effects on different monogenean species. Bromocriptine was selected through a computational approach that included molecular docking analyses of 77 receptors of monogeneans (putative drug targets) and 77 ligands (putative inhibitors). In vitro experiments showed that bromocriptine does not exhibit mortality at concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 10 mg/L whereas plumbagin at 2 and 10 mg/L caused 100% monogenean mortality after 3 h and 30 min, respectively. The most effective concentration of plumbagin (10 mg/L) did not completely inhibit egg hatching. These findings underscore plumbagin as a highly effective agent against adult monogeneans and highlight the need for research to evaluate its effect(s) on fish. Although computational drug repositioning is useful for selecting candidates for experimental testing, it does not guarantee success due to the complexity of biological interactions, as observed here with bromocriptine. Therefore, it is crucial to examine the various compounds proposed by this method.

Drying kinetics and thermal energy evaluation of Moringa oleifera leaves drying using dehumidification with zeolite

Moringa Oleifera leaves contain many phytochemical compounds, as the potential source of antioxidants. The leaves must be converted into dried form to extend the shelf life and prevent the nutritional qualities. The lack of a common sun-drying process for Moringa Oleifera leaves is dependent on the weather. But using convective dryers also requires high investment costs and results in very low energy efficiency. One potential option to enhance energy efficiency is lowering the humidity by dehumidification with zeolite. This research aims to evaluate the effect of drying temperature and the weight of adsorbent (zeolite) on drying kinetic and thermal efficiency of Moringa Oleifera leaves drying. Moringa Oleifera leaves were dried under different drying temperatures (30-70℃) and weight of zeolite (0-0.3 kg). The moisture content of Moringa Oleifera leaves and the input-output temperature was recorded to evaluate the moisture reduction and thermal efficiency. Results showed that the Page model can be used to predict the drying time. At the higher drying temperature and higher zeolite weight, moisture reduction and thermal efficiency increased. But the effect of zeolite is only significant in drying at temperatures below 50℃.

Therapeutic effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L) on female reproductive system disorders: A systematic review.

The effect of Crocus sativus on several disorders has been discussed or even confirmed, but the efficacy of this herb on the female reproductive system has not been well presented. In this regard, this systematic review comprehensively discussed the efficacy of C. sativus and its main phytochemical compounds on the female reproductive system and its disorders for the first time. In this systematic review, scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Sciences, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Scientific Information Database, were explored profoundly. In vivo, in vitro, and human studies published until the end of July 2023, which had investigated the pharmacological properties of C. sativus, crocin, crocetin, safranal, or picrocrocin on the female reproductive system, were selected. A total of 50 studies conducted on the effect of C. sativus on the female reproductive system were acquired. These studies confirmed the efficacy of C. sativus or its main phytochemical ingredients in several aspects of the female reproductive system, including regulation of sex hormones, folliculogenesis, ovulation, and protection of the ovary and uterus against several oxidative stress. Several retrieved studies indicated that this herb also can alleviate the symptoms of patients suffering from dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, menopause, polycystic ovary disease (PCOD), and sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, it is a promising candidate for future studies or even trials regarding ovarian and cervical cancers. This review concluded that C. sativus can improve the symptoms of several female reproductive system disorders, which is particularly due to the presence of phytochemical ingredients, such as crocin, crocetin, and safranal.

Exploring the anti-acne potential of Muntingia calabura L leaves against Staphylococcus epidermidis: In vitro and in silico perspective

Introduction: Muntingia calabura is a medicinal plant possessing antimicrobial properties against various bacteria. The purpose of this study was to examine in vitro and in silico activity of the ethyl acetate fraction of M. calabura leaves against the acne-causing commensal bacterium, Staphylococcus epidermidis. Methods: In this study, M. calabura leaves were extracted using ethanol and then further fractionated with ethyl acetate. The phytochemicals in the fraction were identified with thin layer chromatography (TLC). The activity of the fraction was then tested in S. epidermidis culture using the agar diffusion method. Additionally, the molecular docking of M. calabura phytochemicals constituents was simulated to teicoplanin-associated locus regulator (TcaR) of S. epidermidis. Results: The ethyl acetate fraction of M. calabura exhibited robust antibacterial activity against S. epidermidis culture, resulting in inhibition zones ranging from 5 to 10 mm. The fraction was found to contain flavonoids, saponins, and tannins as identified constituents. Further, during the molecular docking analysis, stigmasterol and 7-methoxyflavone demonstrated binding to TcaR with a lower and comparable binding energy of -7.40 and -6.19 kcal/mol, respectively, compared to the control drug, Penicillin-G (-6.40 kcal/mol). Conclusion: M. calabura has the potential to serve as a valuable source of active phytochemical compounds for addressing acne. Further studies are needed to isolate and evaluate each compound found in M. calabura individually against S. epidermidis.

A facile green synthesis of Ag@MnO2 nanoparticles using Martynia annua plant extract and their biological activity and catalytic reduction of dye

The Ag@MnO2 NPs were characterized by UV, FTIR, HRTEM, SAED, and EDX analysis. UV analysis revealed the characteristic wavelength absorption maxima at 425 nm, which confirmed the synthesis of Ag@MnO2 NPs. Martynia annua plant extract presented phytochemical compounds that act as reducing and capping agents in the synthesis of Ag@MnO2 NPs, as confirmed by FT-IR analysis. HRTEM analysis to determine the Ag@MnO2 NPs morphology images showed the spherical shape of NPs with sizes from 1 to 8 nm. The crystalline nature of Ag@MnO2 NPs was identified using SAED and EDX analysis revealed the composition of these synthesized NPs. In-vitro antioxidant activities of Ag@MnO2 NPs were evaluated using a DPPH assay for the significant radical scavenging ability of these NPs. Our findings revealed that M.annua plant-mediated Ag@MnO2 NPs have been highly active against both bacterial and fungal strains. The BSA and EA methods for inhibition of albumin denaturation were investigated for their anti-inflammatory activity. The Ag@MnO2 NPs showed superior activity as anti-inflammatory agents, reduced the viability of the human lung cancer cell line A549 up to 9.92 % at a concentration of 500 µg/ml, and exhibited a good cytotoxic effect. In the presence of NaBH4, the Ag@MnO2 NPs showed excellent catalytic degradation activity against Fuchsin basic dye.

Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities of hydro-ethanolic extract of Securidaca longipedunculata Fresen leaves

Introduction: The use of Securidaca longipedunculata for solving health problems related to immunological disorders is long-standing. The immunomodulatory activity associated with the anti-inflammatory effect of S. longipedunculata has not yet been elucidated by scientific research. The aim of our study is to show that the leaves of S. longipedunculata can solve problems related to immunodeficiency and inflammation. Methods: The phytochemical compounds of the plant were carried out by solubility tests. The anti-inflammatory activity of the plant was evaluated by the chicken egg albumin denaturation inhibition, membrane stabilization, and C-reactive protein (CRP) tests. The 2,2-diphenyl1-picrylhydrazyl, total antioxidant capacity, and inhibition of lipoperoxidation tests were performed to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the plant. Immunosuppression was induced in rats by cyclophosphamide. The immunomodulatory activity of S. longipedunculata was studied by blood count. The lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) titration showed the effect of S. longipedunculata on the energy balance. Results: The extract contained polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. The tests of albumin denaturation inhibition, membrane stabilisation, CRP, total antioxidant capacity, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl revealed that the extract had anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The blood count results revealed that the extract non-significantly increased the number of leukocytes except in the case of neutrophils and monocytes at a dose of 400 mg/kg (P<0.05). The extract also restored the energy balance in the rats according to the LDH results. Conclusion: This study reveals that the hydro-ethanolic extract of S. longipedunculata leaves has potential immunostimulant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Isolation and characterization of secondary metabolites of commonly available averrhoa bilimbi L.

Averrhoa bilimbi L., locally known as bilimbi, is a medicinal plant well-recognized in Bangladesh for its fruit, Carambola. This study aims to identify novel phytochemical compounds responsible for the health benefits of the plant by analyzing its stem bark. The stem barks were collected, dried, and ground to extract the phytochemicals, which were then analyzed using microbiological, chromatographic, and spectroscopy-based methods. The analysis revealed that the extract contained sitosterone and lupeol. Biochemical characterization demonstrated that the extract has potential antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties. Further research is needed to characterize these compounds and determine their full spectrum of efficacy. Bangladesh J. Bot. 53(1): 115-122, 2024 (March)

Exploring the anti-inflammatory effect of clove water extract in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells and mouse peritoneal macrophages

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum L) is a precious spice that has been extensively used by many countries over the centuries to add flavor and for medicinal purposes. Because of its abundance of phytochemical compounds, clove has been shown to have positive benefits on human health. Hence, we investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of clove water extract (CWE) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells and mouse peritoneal. The results showed that CWE significantly inhibited the production of IL-6 and TNF-α in a dose-dependent manner, as well as the production of nitric oxide (NO), without any cytotoxic effects at less than 20 mg/mL, through down-regulating IL-6, TNF-α, and iNOS gene expression. Moreover, CWE impeded the MAPKs and inhibited the translocation of NF-kB from the cytosol to the nucleus. These results suggest that CWE possesses anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the MAPKs and NF-kB pathways.

Molecular characterization and evaluation of phytochemical constituents of endophytic fungi derived from Mitracarpus scaber Zucc. (Rubiaceae)

In quest to ameliorate the issues of recurring incidences of multidrug-resistant organisms and over-exploration of plants, researchers have delved into researches involving endosymbiotic microorganisms, known as endophytes. These are microorganisms inhabiting the internal part of plants, which have been verified to possess great potentials of bioengineering novel products for therapeutic purposes. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify endophytic fungal species present in Mitracarpus scaber, molecularly characterize the pure isolates, and test for phytochemical compounds present. Freshly collected non-diseased leaves of M. scaber were subjected to a four-step surface sterilization. Thereafter, they were sliced into fragments of 1 cm-length, exposing the leaf blades and the midribs, and were aseptically inoculated on sterilized malt extract agar, containing chloramphenicol (500 mg/l), in Petri dishes. Hyphal tips of actively growing fungi from the plant material were harvested and further sub-cultured for purification and isolation. Segments were aseptically cut from the actively growing pure isolates, on malt extract agar and inoculated onto the fermentation medium (sterilized local rice), in 500 ml Erlenmeyer flasks, which were properly sealed with sterile cotton and kept at static condition at 25 oC for 21 days. Ethyl acetate was used to extract the metabolites from the end products of the fermentation processes. Four isolates obtained from the endophytic fungi (EDF), present in the leaf of M. scaber, were subjected to molecular identification. The DNA extraction was done using Zr fungal/bacterial DNA miniprep. The extracted DNA was amplified through PCR, and sequenced. The resultant sequences were compared with GenBank database, using Basic Local Alignment Search Tool. The result of phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins and phenols, in large amounts; terpenoids, alkaloids and cardiac glycosides, in moderate amounts; steroids, hydrogen cyanide and saponins in very low quantities, while that of molecular characterization identified four organisms: Penicillium sclerotiorum, Clasporium cladosporiodies, Cryptococcus nemorosus, and Phyllosticta capitalensis.

Possible Anti-Obesity Role of Flavonoids Through Brown Adipose Tissue

Worldwide, the incidence of overweight and obesity is increasing day by day, and this makes the control of body weight and complications a primary health problem. Weight loss diet therapy has long been a primary role in the prevention and management of obesity. Evidence supporting the specific anti-obesity effects of certain nutrient components, in particular, polyphenolic compounds, are increasing, as well as a strategy to limit energy intake to achieve control of body weight. Active brown adipose tissue in adult individuals is gaining interest as a new and feasible target for controlling body weight by triggering and increasing energy expenditure. Flavonoids are one of the polyphenolic compounds that draw attention by regulating non-shivering thermogenesis. Although each flavonoid has its health benefits; many phytochemical compounds classified as flavonoids have an anti-obesity effect by regulating oxidation, synthesis, uptake, and transport of fatty acids. In this study, current studies on the therapeutic effect of flavonoids on obesity by regulating energy expenditure through various mechanisms of action in brown adipose tissue are reviewed.

The Effect of Natural Plant Growth Regulator Concentration of Indian Red Onions on the Growth of Euphorbia (Euphorbia geroldii) Flowers

The euphorbia flower (euphorbia geroldii), widely used by the public as an ornamental plant because of its visual beauty, has an aesthetic function and health benefits that still need to be researched. The euphorbia genus has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activity, which comes from its abundant terpenoid compounds, flavonoids, and other phytochemical compounds. Due to these high benefits, optimization of cultivation is carried out by adding phytohormones, better known as Growth Regulatory Regulator (PGR), further to increase the quality and quantity of euphorbia flowers so that the economic value will also increase in the realm of the agricultural industry. This research aims to analyze the effect of the natural PGR concentration of red onions (Allium cepa L.) on the growth of euphorbia flowers, including the parameters of the number of flowers on one tree, the time the buds appear, and the duration of flower survival. The research method used was quantitative experimental using a one-factor Randomized Block Design (RBD), namely testing the effect of several variations in PGR concentration (0%, 1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, and 10%) and statistically analyzed using SPSS. The results of the research show that all variations in PGR concentration have a positive effect on all parameters, where the PGR concentration of 10% indicates the highest increase, including the average number of flowers on one tree, which is 13 flowers, the average time for buds to appear is 2.5 times in one week. The average duration of flower survival is 139.5 hours. It can be concluded that the natural PGR of red onions has a positive effect on all parameters, with the highest results shown at a concentration variation of 10%.

Development and Characterization of Transdermal Patches Using Novel Thymoquinone-L-Arginine-Based Polyamide Nanocapsules for Potential Use in the Management of Psoriasis

Thymoquinone (TQ) is a phytochemical compound present in Nigella sativa and has potential benefits for treating dermatological conditions such as psoriasis. However, its clinical use is limited due to its restricted bioavailability, caused mainly by its low solubility and permeability. To overcome this, a new transdermal drug delivery system is required. Nanoparticles are known to enhance material solubility and permeability, and hence, this study aimed to synthesize TQ-loaded L-arginine-based polyamide (TQ/Arg PA) nanocapsules incorporated into transdermal patches for prolonged delivery of TQ. To achieve this, Eudragit E polymer, plasticizers, and aloe vera as penetration enhancer were used to develop the transdermal patch. Furthermore, novel TQ/Arg-PA was synthesized via interfacial polymerization, and the resultant nanocapsules (NCs) were incorporated into the matrix transdermal patch. The Arg-PA NCs’ structure was confirmed via NMR and FTIR, and optimal TQ/Arg-PA NCs containing formulation showed high entrapment efficiency of TQ (99.60%). Molecular and thermal profiling of TQ/Arg-PA and the transdermal patch revealed the effective development of spherical NCs with an average particle size of 129.23 ± 18.22 nm. Using Franz diffusion cells and synthetic membrane (STRAT M®), the in vitro permeation profile of the prepared patches demonstrated an extended release of TQ over 24 h, with enhanced permeation by 42.64% when aloe vera was employed. In conclusion, the produced formulation has a potential substitute for corticosteroids and other drugs commonly used to treat psoriasis due to its effectiveness, safety, and lack of the side effects typically associated with other drugs.Graphical

Screening of chemical composition of black soybean hulls: a comparative study of different extraction techniques

Black soybean hulls have been reported to contain abundant anthocyanin pigments, which can be used as a colorant in food as well as non-food industries. In this study, anthocyanins were extracted from black soybean hulls using different extraction techniques such as aqueous extraction (solid to solvent ratio 1:20 g/mL, temperature of 40 °C for 65 min), microwave treatment (solid to solvent ratio 1:22 g/mL, microwave power of 240 W for 91s), ultrasound treatment (solid to solvent ratio of 1:26 g/mL, ultrasound power of 200 W for 50 min, and ethanol 90% v/v), and enzyme treatment (60% ethanol, solid to solvent ratio of 1:20 g/mL at 37 °C for 90 min). The results of this investigation showed that the enzyme-assisted extraction method showed the presence of the highest number of phytochemical compounds compared to other methods investigated in this study. Additionally, hull extracts displayed the presence of various important compounds that can be used in different industries, including as a pigment in the food industry which enhances the nutritional value, develops functional food, upgrades food quality, and is also beneficial in the pharmaceutical industry.

Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant Effect and Sperm Quality of the Bomba ceiba Stamen Extracts on Charolais Cattle Sperm Induced by Ferrous Sulfate.

Orange Bombax ceiba (B. ceiba) is an indigenous plant, and its stamen is an important ingredient in traditional Lanna food. There are limitations in scientific reports on the effects of the biological activities of B. ceiba stamens on the male reproductive system. This study aims to investigate the phytochemical compounds of the orange B. ceiba stamen and its potential effect on the antioxidant properties and quality of cattle sperm treated with Fe. The orange BUE had the highest total phenolics, total tannins, total monomeric anthocyanins, and maximal antioxidant potential. The orange BAE had the highest concentration of total flavonoids. LC-QTOF/MS showed that the orange BUE contained the highest number of phytochemical compounds related to male reproductive enhancement. The orange BUE enhanced sperm motility, and both the orange BUE and the BAE enhanced sperm viability and normal sperm morphology via free radical scavenging. It might be suggested that B. ceiba stamens have benefits for sperm preservation, sperm quality, and increasing the economic value of local plants, and that they may be developed and used to guard against oxidative stress from cryodamage induced by frozen semen technology.

Exploring the Phytochemical Diversity and Antioxidant Potential of the Vietnamese Smilax glabra Roxb: Insights from UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS and Zebrafish Model Studies.

Research on natural products is growing due to their potential health benefits and medicinal properties. Despite regional variations in phytochemical composition and bioactivity, Smilax glabra Roxb (SGB) has attracted the interest of researchers. Scientists are particularly interested in the Vietnamese SGB variant, which is influenced by biological and environmental factors. Despite geographical differences in phytochemical makeup and bioactivities, SGB remains a fascinating subject in traditional herbal medicine. Using ultra-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS), the phytochemicals in Vietnamese SGB extracts were investigated. This study revealed a wide range of phytochemical compounds, including flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides, alkaloids, organic acids, phenolics, and steroids. Furthermore, utilizing zebrafish as a model organism, we discovered that these extracts have the surprising ability to greatly improve the survival rate of zebrafish larvae exposed to oxidative stress caused by arsenite (NaAsO2) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Notably, our discoveries suggest the occurrence of new antioxidative pathways in addition to the kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, expanding the understanding of the antioxidant properties and potential therapeutic uses of these plants. To summarize, our research findings shed light on the phytochemical composition of Vietnamese SGB, revealing its potential as a natural antioxidant and encouraging further exploration of its underlying mechanisms for future innovative antioxidant therapies.

Bioactive compounds of mulberry fruit and assessment of the effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains on the quality of mulberry wine products

In the winemaking process, yeast strain plays a crucial role in the quality of the wine products. Therefore, this study aimed to screen the phytochemical compounds from mulberry fruits and assess the effect of three commercial yeast strains (Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. burgundy, kyokai and montrachet) on the quality of mulberry wines. The results showed that mulberry juice was a rich source of phytochemicals compounds (tannins, flavonoids, anthraquinones, steroids, terpenoids and alkaloids). Yeast strains had a significant effect on oenological parameters, total anthocyanins, phenolics and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activities (DPPH and FRAP assay) of mulberry wines (p0.05). The total soluble solids contents continually reduced while the percentage of alcohol contents consistently increased after 24 days of fermentation. The total soluble solids, pH values and titratable acidity of three mulberry wines were in the range of 5.80±0.06 – 6.00±0.06°Brix, 3.23±0.01 – 3.35±0.01 and 1.06±0.01 – 1.12±0.040% CAE, respectively. Mulberry wine fermented by S. cerevisiae var. burgundy (MWB) had the highest alcohol content (7.80±0.17% (v/v)) and acceptance scores (4.27±0.45 points). Moreover, MWB had the highest antioxidant activities due to the presence of the total anthocyanins, phenolics and flavonoid contents in mulberry wine. Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) and cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside (C3R) were two major anthocyanins in mulberry wines. The C3G contents ranged from 0.14±0.01 – 0.38±0.01 mg/100 mL, while C3R ranged from 0.15±0.01 – 0.49±0.01 mg/100 mL. Therefore, this could be considered that S. cerevisiae var. burgundy had the potential yeast to produce quality mulberry wine as a healthy alternative product. Mulberry exhibited good antioxidant activity of anthocyanins and other phenolic compounds.

Studies on Ulva fasciata and Chaetomorpha antennina from Tenneti Park, Visakhapatnam Coastal Area, India

Seaweed is considered as herbal medicine and food source utilized by the coastal community. Seaweed is commonly consumed because it is an important source of iodine. Ulva fasciata and Chaetomorpha antennina are green seaweed wildly grow in marine environment. Green algae are involved in photosynthetic reaction. These are observed worldwide. These algal blooms are a consequence of human activities. Phytochemical compounds are secondary metabolite groups in living organisms that have a certain function for humans. Algae are known to contain a huge variety of bioactive compounds having high potentiality towards medical field. They are seen mainly in shallow waters with high degree of salinity. Now-a-days they have commercially important with their valuable components in the form of as bioactive compounds. The objective of this study was to analyse the potential anti-bacterial activity and antifungal activity, the presence of phytochemical and biomolecules in U. fasciata and C. antennina. The samples of U. fasciata and C. antennina was collected aseptically from Tenneti park, Visakhapatnam coastal zone. The research phase includes solvent extraction, phytochemical screening, and antibacterial activity. The zone of inhibition ranges from 0.5nm to 0.7nm by the U. fasciata extracts whereas the extracts from C. antennina ranges from 0.2nm to 0.3 nm. The presence of phytochemicals was observed in both the green seaweeds. The present study is biofuel extraction from the 2 seaweed extracts. The findings gave a result that C. antennina have high potentiality of biofuel production.