Phytochemical Content Research Articles

Survey and Characterization of Edible Fruit and Ethnomedicinal Trees in the Forest Landscape of Apayao Province

This study was conducted in the six municipalities of Apayao Province, namely, Luna, Pudtol, Flora, Conner, Kabugao, and Calanasan. This aimed to survey and characterize the edible fruit and ethnomedicinal trees in the forest landscape of Apayao province. It determined the geographical location, morphological characteristics, ecological status, DNA sequencing, phytochemical contents, uses, and threats of the edible and ethnomedicinal trees in the forests of Apayao. The methods used were qualitative and quantitative research. Fifteen (15) edible and 10 ethnomedicinal trees were surveyed with sixteen (16) families were identified.Out of 25 edible and ethnomedicinal trees, the conservation status is endangered, threatened, rare, vulnerable, and least concerned. Out of 25 edible and ethnomedicinal fruit trees, most are with identity results that range from 93 to 100% identity. Flavonoids, tannins, and sapotin compounds are mostly present in edible and ethnomedicinal trees. The community members are using 15 different ethnomedicinal trees to address 32 health-related conditions. The results of the phytochemical analyses provide support evidence to support the traditional uses of ethnomedicinal trees. All surveyed trees are susceptible to pests, diseases, and destruction brought by natural phenomena such as the effect of climate change. A policy recommendation for the conservation and protection of edible and ethnomedicinal trees is then proposed.

Effects of Oven-Drying on the Phytochemical and Phenolic Acid Contents of Ethanol Extracts of the Root, Stalk and Leaves of Cymbopogon citratus

Effects of Oven-Drying on the Phytochemical and Phenolic Acid Contents of Ethanol Extracts of the Root, Stalk and Leaves of Cymbopogon citratus

Activity Uji Aktivitas Antioksidan dan Kandungan Fitokimia Daun Benalu (Loranthus ferrugineus Roxb.) yang Tumbuh pada Ketinggian Tempat dan Inang Berbeda

Restrictions on synthetic antioxidants in several countries have caused the global community to switch to using natural antioxidants. One source of natural antioxidants is mistletoe leaves (Loranthus ferrugineus Roxb.).The presence of mistletoe in a place and host is an important aspect to pay attention to to get the best antioxidants. This research aims to determine the effect of different altitudes and host types on the antioxidant activity and phytochemical content of mistletoe leaves. This research was structured in a split-plot design with 2 factors, namely altitude (lowland and medium land) and host types (avocado, lime, cocoa, and dogfruit). Antioxidant activity test using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method and phytochemical screening using reagents. Variables observed included extract yield percentage, antioxidant activity (IC50 value), and phytochemical screening. The results showed that altitude and host type significantly affected the antioxidant activity of mistletoe leaves. Mistletoe leaves in avocado hosts in the lowlands and medium land showed the best antioxidant activity, namely 155,94 µg/mL and 156,25 µg/mL in the weak antioxidant category, and the highest phytochemical content, namely flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and steroids.

Centaurea iberica trevir. Ex spreng. Phytochemical content and evaluation of cytotoxicity, phytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory, larvicidal and anti-inflammatory potentials

Due to their tremendous therapeutic ability to treat a wide range of illnesses, medicinal plants are employed as a rich source and nutraceuticals practically in all civilizations. The goal of the current study was to evaluate phytochemistry and biological potentials of medicinal plant Centaurea iberica as previously no research work has been reported. To prepare plant extracts, five different solvents, methanol, ethanol, n-hexane, ethyl acetate and chloroform were used. Total phenolic content of the investigated plant was recorded highest in the methanolic extract ranges from 91 ± 1.2 mg/g, total flavonoid content recorded 24 ± 1.1 mg/g. Moreover, maximum LC50 value (9.95 µg/mL) was recorded for methanolic extract using cytotoxicity assay. Radish seed germination phytotoxicity assay indicated the highest phytotoxic potential in n-hexane (55 % seed inhibition) extract of C. iberica. However, in anti-inflammatory assay less than 50 % inhibition was observed for methanolic extract and plant was found to be inactive against larvicidal activity. Based on the results of this study, it is recommended that more in vitro and in vivo research activities be done in the future, as well as chemical characterization to identify various compounds that may be utilized to treat various illnesses.

Evaluation of carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) pods, through three different drying techniques, and ultrasonic assisted extraction, for presence of bioactives

The Mediterranean evergreen carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) produces pods, that may be edible and even therapeutic. The purpose of this study was to determine how ethanolic extracts of carob pods from Morocco, prepared with ultrasonic assistance were affected by microwave (525 °C for 2.5 min), hot air (65 °C for 16 h), and spray drying (input and output air temperatures 180 and 90 °C, respectively, feed flow rate 2.5 mL/min and 5 bars, respectively), in terms of their physicochemical composition and biological activity. Colorimetric techniques were utilized to ascertain the phytochemical contents of pod extracts, whereas standardized in vitro methodologies were employed to quantify the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Physicochemical analysis showed that microwaved powders of carob pods presented significantly high (p<0.05) values of L* (62.15±0.06) and b* (21.32±0.06), and lower values of a* (4.16±0.03), as compared to spray dried and hot air-dried powders. Significantly high (p<0.05) amounts of ash (3.92±0.05 %), fat (1.48±0.02 %), fiber (7.45±0.12 %) and protein (2.65±0.06 %) were found in microwave dried powders, followed by spray dried and hot air dried. Significant difference in macro and micro minerals among three powders was also observed, as microwave dried powders were found to be significantly high (p<0.05) in Mg, K, Ca, Fe, Zn and Mn, followed by spray dried powders, whereas hot air-dried powders presented lowest values. Similarly, spectrophotometric analysis of phytochemicals revealed that ultrasonic assisted ethanolic extracts of microwave dried powders were found to be highest in total phenolics, flavonoids and carotenoids, with values 69.18±0.15 mg GAE/g, 34.88±0.08 mg QE/g and 24.05±0.15 mg g-1, respectively. In vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial analysis also showed a similar trend as, extracts of microwave dried powders exhibited significantly high (p<0.05) antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, followed by spray dried and hot air-dried. As compared to hot air and spray drying, the microwave drying and ultrasonic assisted extraction using 70 % ethanol as solvent could be employed on carob pods, to obtain powders and extracts, respectively, with minimum degradation of physicochemical characteristics, and maximum retention of nutritional, bioactive and antioxidant contents. Practical applicationsIn recent years, Morocco has become more and more dependent on the use of carob fruit and its powders. Nonetheless, very rare is known about the composition and carob pod quality of those grown in Mediterranean nations. The current study presents a comparison of the effects of three distinct commercial drying methods on the composition and physical characteristics of flour made from carob pods. The study's findings can also be used to evaluate how well information is composed, processed, and preserved for use in future research and commercial applications.

A systematic review exploring the variation in the compositional make‐up and phytochemical constituents of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens as a function of diverse growing condition

AbstractThe wheatgrass and pulse microgreens have gained popularity for their concentrated phytochemical content. However, the variability in growth parameters and compositional constituents of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens is dependent on the prevailing environmental conditions. Nowadays, wheatgrass and pulse microgreens are used as culinary sources or incorporated into various food products and consumed by a large proportion of the global population. Therefore, it is necessary to review the impact of growth conditions to meet the increased demand. This will allow breeders to adjust their cultivation techniques according to consumer preferences for specific nutritional components. This systematic review seeks to provide an analysis of the available literature on the variation in growth and compositions of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens as the influence of diverse growing conditions. The growth of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens can be influenced by a range of growth conditions, such as variations in light intensity, temperature, nutrient availability, and cultivation techniques. The variation in growth and compositional components, in terms of proximate composition and certain constituents such as chlorophyll, antioxidants, minerals, phenolic compounds, and secondary metabolites, is discussed in relation to the changing cultivation parameters as published in recent studies. However, this review only covers the compositional make‐up of wheatgrass and pulse microgreens. There remains a need to summarize the compositional profiles of other microgreen species under various conditions. Ultimately, this review illuminates the promise of emerging superfoods and underscores how their growth and composition can vary depending on cultivation methods, ultimately impacting their capacity to promote health. In addition, there is a need to establish dose–response relationships to address various diseases. Therefore, additional research may be warranted.

Phytochemical screening along with in vitro antioxidant, antibacterial and anticancer activity of Senna auriculata (L.) bark extracts

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical content and biological properties of Senna auriculata (L.) Roxb. Four extracts—acetone, methanol, ethanol, and chloroform—were tested for antioxidant potential, enzymatic activity (peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase), antimicrobial, and anticancer effects. GC-MS analysis identified 34 bioactive compounds. The acetone extract exhibited the highest total alkaloid (5.8%), phenolic (752.78 ± 2.25 mg GAE/g), and flavonoid (285.78 ± 1.25 mg QE/g) content, along with the highest antioxidant (1489.42 ± 4.35 mg AAE/g) and enzyme activities. All extracts inhibited both Gram-positive and negative bacteria, with the acetone extract showing superior inhibition against S. aureus and B. subtilis. Additionally, the acetone and methanol extracts demonstrated anticancer effects on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. These findings suggest that Senna auriculata has potential as a therapeutic agent for various diseases.

Nutritional and phytochemicals analysis of high‐altitude common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars of Nepal

AbstractThe common bean, Phaseolus vulgaris L., is an important legume grown in all parts of Nepal to supply dietary protein for humans and livestock. They are rich in a variety of bioactive compounds and thus possess health‐promoting effects in the prevention of chronic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and diabetes. The present study examined the nutritional and proximate composition and screened the bioactive compounds present in beans grown in the high‐altitude regions of Nepal. The analysis of 18 beans indicated the moisture (6.48%–8.83%), crude protein (17.39%–23.54%), carbohydrate (58.74%–66.37%), crude fat (0.78%–1.58%), crude fiber (3.36%–4.75%), total ash (3.33%–4.69%), and total energy (340.24–350.16 kcal/100 g). The results showed that the common beans were also good sources of nutritionally important minerals, including copper (2.72–8.77 mg/kg), calcium (843.86–2763.62 mg/kg), iron (38.93–73.69 mg/kg), magnesium (1540.63–2083.52 mg/kg), sodium (205.91–695.81 mg/kg), potassium (13,560.21–16,957.05 mg/kg), and zinc (19.80–31.00 mg/kg) on a dry weight basis. Quantification of bioactive compounds revealed the highest concentration of total phenolic content (TPC) in the beans from Jumla (5.96 mg GAE/g) than Dolakha and Darchula. However, the total flavonoid content was higher in Dolakha beans (3.47 mgQE/g). The EP‐15‐03FB landrace from Jumla was superior in terms of protein, phytochemical, and TPC. The results of this study will provide valuable information on the nutritional and phytochemical contents of beans and serve as a basis for further utilization of common beans.

Bioactivity Profiling and Phytochemical Analysis of Carissa carandas Extracts: Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anti-Urinary Tract Infection Properties.

Carissa carandas L. (Apocynaceae) is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia including Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka. C. carandas is considered as an integral component of traditional medicinal systems to combat several health ailments. The present study aimed to assess this plant's phytochemical contents and biological potential by performing sequential extraction, adopting a bioassay-guided approach. C. carandas powder was extracted with n-hexane to remove fatty substances and then residues were sequentially extracted with dichloromethane, methanol, and 50% methanol. All the sequential crude extracts were evaluated for phytochemical contents (total phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins), in vitro antioxidant activity (FRAP, DPPH), in vitro anti-inflammatory activity (serum and egg albumin denaturation), in vivo anti-inflammatory activity (carrageenan- and formaldehyde-induced paw edema), and in vitro antimicrobial activity. Active crude extract was then partitioned using the liquid-liquid separation method followed by further separation of the active fraction by RP-HPLC. The active fraction was then subjected to LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis for tentative identification of bioactive metabolites responsible for its bioactive properties, followed by HPLC quantification. The analysis revealed methanol extract to have more phytochemical contents, radical scavenging properties, reduced inflammation in both models (in vitro and in vivo), and antimicrobial properties against urinary tract infection-causing agents as compared to dichloromethane and 50% methanol extracts. The ethyl acetate fraction obtained after liquid-liquid partitioning (LLP) of the active methanol extract exhibited more activity as compared to C. carandas methanol extract. RP-HPLC sub-fractionation yielded seven sub-fractions, but a slight decrease in biological potential was recorded. Therefore, LLP fraction B was subjected to further analysis. LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis led to the tentative identification of phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, quinic acid), flavonoids (quercetin), and anthocyanins (peonidin-3-arabinoside, delphinidin-3-galactoside, delphinidin-3-rutinoside) in the active LLP ethyl acetate fraction. Chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid, and quinic acid were quantified as 17.6 µg/mg, 5.90 µg/mg, and 3.30 µg/mg, respectively, on a dry weight basis by HPLC. C. carandas may be considered a promising therapeutic plant, and the results of the current study provide more evidence to support the assertions made in ancient medical traditions. These findings highlight its promising applications in health, medicine, cosmetics, preservatives, and as a natural coloring agent.

Phytochemical Analysis and Evaluation of the Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Hemolytic, and Antibacterial Effects of Astragalus gombo (L.) Leaves.

The purpose of this study is to determine the phytochemical content and biological activities of the Astragalus gombo (endemic specie). While identification and quantification of individual secondary metabolites were performed by analysis HPLC. Antioxidant (DPPH and FRAP), anti-inflammatory, anti-hemolytic and antibacterial activities were evaluated. For analysis HPLC, we obtained 65 peaks and identified 6 major bioactive compounds. The total concentration in polyphenols, flavonoids and condensed tannins varied respectively from 66.306±0.88 mg GA eq/g, 34.312±1.4 mg Q eq/g and 5.343±2.74 mg Ca eq/g. In terms of antioxidant activity, we found that this extract had high inhibitory ratios equivalent to IC50=62.813±0.006 µg/mL for DPPH and IC50=19.375±0.041 µg/mL for FRAP. A high anti-inflammatory activity was estimated at 1615.81µg/mL, and a weak anti-hemolytic activity, the other hand the antibacterial activity is somewhat moderate against the five strains studied. This study demonstrated that the aqueous extract of A. gombo from El Oued region has tremendous antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial abilities.

Effects of solvent extraction on the phytoconstituents and in vitro antioxidant activity properties of leaf extracts of the two selected medicinal plants from Malawi

This study evaluated and compared the phytochemical and antioxidant properties of the solvent extracts of Azadirachta indica A. Juss and Vernonia amygdalina Del leaves. Methanolic and aqueous extracts showed high (P ≤ 0.05) extract yields (in %), compared to chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts from both V. amygdalina and A. indica leaves. The study exhibited high phytochemical content in methanol and aqueous extracts compared to chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts, confirming the potential for medicinal use. V. amygdalina methanol and aqueous extracts had higher (P ≤ 0.05) total phenolic content (TPC), in mg GAE/gDW, (158.810±0.846 and 217.883±0.265, respectively) than chloroform (37.574±0.118) and ethyl acetate (104.758±0.236) but higher ethyl acetate content in A. indica extracts. Low polar solvents extracted high (P ≤ 0.05) total flavonoids, in mgQE/gDW, (367.051±0.858 and 149.808±0.009) compared to high polar solvents (14.863±0.071 and 54.226±0.014 ) in V. amygdalina while as in A. indica leaf extracts, low polar solvents showed high TFC ( 658.469±3.451 and 275.288±10.490) compared to high polar solvents (26.312±0.063 and 48.858±0.063) respectively. In vitro total antioxidant capacity, in mg/g, was higher in polar solvents than in low-polar solvents, ranging from 34.300±1.784 to 121.015±6.839 for A. indica ethyl acetate and methanolic extracts. A strong correlation between TPC and tannic acid content was observed, except in A. indica methanolic extracts of A. indica. Ferric reducing power was high, except for V. amygdalina chloroform and methanol leaf extracts, which were lower (P≤ 0.05) than that of the standard ascorbic acid. The study revealed that high polar solvents, such as methanol and water, are more efficient in the extraction of antioxidants from A. indica but lower in V. amygdalina extracts. High phytochemical content and antioxidative capacity could be significant in treating various diseases in humans.

Phenotypic and Biochemical Trait Improvement in Husk Tomatoes (Physalis sp.) through EMS-Induced Mutagenesis

Husk tomatoes are used in salsa and traditional medicine to alleviate illnesses. Market demand requires husk tomato varieties with improved agronomic and physicochemical health benefits. Mutagen application alters plant genomes, creating new traits and genetic diversity. The efficacy of EMS (ethyl methanesulfonate) was examined for morphology, bioactive compounds, and phytochemical improvement. Three husk tomato genotypes representing Physalis philadelphica and Physalis ixocarpa underwent two hours of 1.4% EMS. In addition to yield and yield-related properties, total phenol, antioxidant activity, chlorophyll a and b levels in leaves and fruits, and phytochemical concentrations of Na, Mg, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, and K in fruits were measured. Genotype-dependent morphological changes were found. The mutants C1T6 (85 cm) and C1T7 (87.60 cm) were shorter than Control C1 (102 cm). The highest yield was 5.80 g for C1T5; Control C1 produced 3.08. The mutant C2T6 produced the most (5.99 g) compared to its control (2.85 g). Mutants had higher total phenol, antioxidant activity, and leaf/fruit chlorophyll. C1T2 had the highest antioxidant activity (1.19 ng/µL). C2T1 outperformed Control C2 at 1.54 ng/µL phenolic content. C3T2 had the highest Ca content (1822 µg/g), while Control C3 had 861.20 µg/g. Mutations altered phytochemical composition, which can be used to generate nutritionally superior husk tomato varieties. Additionally, scientists will be able to study mutants with advantageous morphological and biochemical traits, enabling extensive research. Furthermore, the mutants will serve as a genetic repository for the progression of breeding procedures.

Exploring the Potential of the Mixture of Alginate and Aqueous Plant Extracts as Functional Drinks for Diabetics

Diabetes, which affects millions of people every year, has led to a functional food development for diabetics. This study aimed to explore the potential of functional drinks made of a mixture of alginate and aqueous plant extracts to treat diabetics. Samples studied, were 1% alginate solution (alginate drink), aqueous plant extracts, and functional drinks consisting of a mixture of alginate-plant extracts. Those functional drinks were made from okra aqueous extract, moringa leaf aqueous extract, bay leaf aqueous extract, and guava leaf aqueous extract, each of which was mixed with alginate. The samples were analyzed for qualitative phytochemical content, dietary fiber content, total phenolic content, alpha-glucosidase inhibition, and antioxidant capability. The phytochemical content of functional drinks showed differences in color intensity and types of phytochemicals. Saponins were identified in all the drinks. The high phenolic and dietary fiber content was shown by a drink of alginate - moringa leaf extract mixture. High alpha glucoside inhibitors and antioxidant activity were shown by drinks prepared from a mixture of alginate-bay leaf extract and a mixture of alginate-guava leaf extract. Overall, drinks from a mixture of alginate-bay leaf extract and a mixture of alginate-guava leaf extract had the potential to be used to treat diabetes.

The protective influence of Secamone emetica (Retz.) R. Br. ex Sm.: Mitigating oxidative stress and glycoxidation in glucose-albumin system

The science and processes of anti-glycoxidation are integral for exploring novel approaches to address health concerns. The study examines the sustainable utilization of wild edibles, Secamone emetica, as a strategic solution to address health concerns and strengthen food security. A step-by-step attenuation method in a glucose-induced glycation system was used to study the impact of phytochemical content and antioxidant capabilities on glycoxidation. The distribution of metabolites and antioxidants adheres to a pattern of stem > root > leaf. The extracts effectively reduce protein carbonyls [86.45 % SSE (Stem extract of S. emetica), 84.97 % RSE (Root extract of S. emetica), 57.34 % LSE (Leaf extract of S. emetica) vs. 53.74 % in AGEs (Advanced glycation end products)] and inhibit amyloid β-aggregation (88.64 % SSE, 84.86 % RSE, 82.70 % LSE vs. 53.74 % in AGEs). Electrophoretic mobility significantly increased (9.99 × 10–5 cm2/V.s in SSE), surpassing the negative control (7.78 × 10‐5 cm2/V.s in AGEs after 72 h). Thiol group concentrations are maintained and lower 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) impurities are observed, indicating anti-glycoxidative properties. These results are comparable to aminoguanidine, suggesting the extracts scavenge free radicals and inhibit glycoxidation's consequences. Thus, highlighting the biological capacity of S. emetica in addressing oxidative stress and glycoxidation underscores its potential benefits.

EFFECT OF STEM CUTTING POSITIONS ON FORAGE GROWTH, YIELD, NUTRITIONAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL CONTENT, AND PALATABILITY OF Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr

The current research aimed to evaluate the potential of Gynura procumbens (G. procumbens) as forage by evaluating its growth, yield, nutritional characteristics, and palatability which were cultivated from different-position stem cutting. The experiments were laid out under completely randomized design. The treatments were three positions of cutting stem: top (P1), middle (P2), and bottom (P3), with 50 replications. The observed parameters were the growth (morphological cutting stem, plant height, the number of leaves, and branches), yield (forage biomass), then the composite sample from all treatments was analyzed for nutrient composition, in vitro digestibility, phytochemical content, and palatability. Data were analyzed statistically using R i386 3.6.1 through analysis of variance (ANOVA). The Tukey contrast test was conducted to determine the level of significant differences among different treatments. The results showed that there were differences in cutting stem diameter and weight from different positions (P≤0.05). The cutting stem on top position increased the number of branches, plant height, and forage biomass (P≤0.01; P≤0.05), yet the number of leaves had no different effects. G. procumbens plant growth had different patterns on the number of leaves and branches and plant height. The crude protein, ash, and digestibility in leaves were higher than in the stalk. The degree of palatability was higher for cattle and goats. It was concluded from this study that the best position to induce G. procumbens plant growth was the top stem-cutting and its yield could be utilized as forage from leaves and stems based on the in vitro digestibility, forage biomass, nutritional characteristics, and palatability. Keywords: Crop, Cutting Stem, Forage, Gynura procumbens, Stalk Position

Grape pomace and pecan shell fortified bread: The effect of dietary fiber-phenolic compounds interaction on the in vitro accessibility of phenolic compounds and in vitro glycemic index

Grape pomace (GP) and pecan shell (PS) are two by-products rich in phenolic compounds (PC), and dietary fiber (DF) that may be considered for the development of functional baked foods. In this study, four formulations with different GP:PS ratios (F1(8%:5%), F2(5%:5%), F3(5%:2%), F4(0%:5%), and control bread (CB)) were elaborated and characterized (physiochemical and phytochemical content). Also, their inner structure (SEM), changes in their FTIR functional group's vibrations, and the bioaccessibility of PC and sugars, including an in vitro glycemic index, were analyzed. Results showed that all GP:PS formulations had higher mineral, protein, DF (total, soluble, and insoluble), and PC content than CB. Additionally, PC and non-starch polysaccharides affected gluten and starch absorbance and pores distribution. In vitro digestion model showed a reduction in the glycemic index for all formulations, compared to CB. These findings highlight the possible health benefits of by-products and their interactions in baked goods.

Comparison of Anticancer, Antioxidant, Enzyme Inhibitory Effects and Phytochemical Contents Between Edible Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and a New Wild Species (Lactuca anatolica).

In this study, the bioactive components, enzyme inhibitory, antioxidant and anticancer potentials of edible (L. sativa) and a new species (L. anatolica) of Lactuca were evaluated and compared. The quantitative analyzes of the bioactive components of L. sativa (LS) and L. anatolica (LA) were analyzed quantitatively by GC-MS and Orbitrab HPLC-HRMS. Antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory and anticancer properties were analyzed by various assays. In general, LA exhibited more stronger antioxidant properties compared to LS. The extracts showed similar inhibitory effects on these enzymes. It was determined that LS was dominant in terms of linoleic acid (23.71 %), while LA contained a high level of α-linolenic acid (31.70 %). LA and LS inhibited the viability of A549 and MCF-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. IC50 values for LA, LS and cisplatin were determined as 120.3, 197.5, 4.3 μg/mL in A549 cell line and 286.2, 472.8, 7.2 μg/mL in MCF-7 cell line, respectively. It was revealed that LA and LS treatment at 50 μg/mL concentrations in A549 cells completely suppressed the colony forming capacity, and treatment with IC50 doses inhibited cell migration, and triggered apoptosis by regulating caspase-3, cPARP, p53 and p21. The findings of this study suggested that these species have significant pharmacological potential.

Cousinia birandiana (Asteraceae): phytochemical composition, antioxidant and enzyme inhibition capacity

Cousinia birandiana is one of the widely spread species of the Asteraceae family. In this study, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, the inhibitory effect on α-amylase, α-glucosidase, acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes, the antioxidant capacity (by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC tests) and the phytochemical content (by LC-HRMS) of the ethanol extract and fractions were studied. As a result, it was shown that ethanol extract has better enzyme inhibitory effects on α-amylase, AChE and BChE enzymes with 300.000, 380.605 and 133.567 µg/mL IC50 values. Besides that, the highest phenolic and flavonoid content was found in the ethyl acetate fraction (735.986 mgGAE/gextract and 952.317 mgCA/gextract, respectively). It is observed that the same fraction has better antioxidant activity in DPPH (IC50 =112.701 mg/mL), ABTS (9.494 µM Trolox/gextract) and CUPRAC (1120.454 mgGAE/gextract) tests and the n-hexane fraction has a higher FRAP (1351.199 mmol Fe2+/gextract) antioxidant effect. According to the phytochemical analyses quinic acid, chlorogenic acid and isoquercitrin were found as major compounds in the ethanol extract and fractions. In addition, the same assays were carried out with these major substances. So, this plant can be viewed as a promising bio-resource for pharmaceuticals and biomedical products.

Wounding Citrus Peel By-Products as Abiotic Stress to Induce the Synthesis of Phenolic Compounds?

Wounding stress stimulates secondary metabolism and induces the phytochemical accumulation of fresh-cut fruit and vegetables. This research aims to study the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in citrus peel by-products after different wounding intensities. Orange, grapefruit, and lemon peels were cut into rectangular shapes of 8.5 × 2 cm (CTRL), 1 × 1 cm dices (D), and 0.25 cm grates (G). Samples were stored at 15 °C and 65% relative humidity. Their total phenolic content (TPC), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and individual organic and phenolic compounds were analyzed after 0, 4, 8, 24, 28, and 36 h. The results showed that the metabolite content decreased with the incubation time, so it is recommended to sample by-products between the first 8 h to achieve the maximum content. Grating, the most severe abiotic stress, was not a suitable technique to induce the synthesis of biocompounds because it allowed the full recovery of flavedo, but partial of albedo. However, it was different for CTRL and D, whose TPCs were ~170 and ~200%, ~98 and ~78%, and ~8 and ~36% higher for orange, grapefruit, and lemon, respectively, compared to G. A principal component analysis confirmed differences between the fruit species and cutting shapes combining all factors. Wounding citrus peels induces the accumulation of phytochemical compounds, but the layer of peel recovered in the cut is crucial in the concentration of phytochemicals extracted. It could be an innovative tool to revalorize these inedible parts of citrus, but further research is still needed.

Growth performance, biochemical outcomes, and testicular histological features in male Japanese quails supplemented with milk thistle seeds

BackgroundDue to its rich content of active phytochemicals, milk thistle is regarded as a promising nutritional supplement for quails, particularly in regions with limited financial resources. Thus, our study aimed to evaluate the possible beneficial impact of aqueous extract of milk thistle seeds (MTS) at two graded concentrations (10 and 20 ml/L of drinking water) on male Japanese quails during their reproductive period.ResultsThe phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of 29 active compounds, including nine flavonoids and ten phenolic compounds. The supplemented groups showed significant improvements in body weight gain. MTS1 group exhibited a notable decrease in daily feed consumption, while MTS2 group showed a significant increase in daily water consumption. There was a dose-dependent increase in cecum length. The total count of intestinal bacteria decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Incorporating aqueous extract of MTS at concentration of 10 ml /L resulted in a significant increase in total protein and packed cell volume. Similar increases in globulin and decreases in the albumin/globulin ratio and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were observed with both doses of supplementation. A significant decrease in total cholesterol and AST was observed in the high-dose group. Significantly higher plasma testosterone and triiodothyronine levels were observed only in the high-dose group, while plasma thyroxine levels were similarly increased in both supplemented groups. Intervention with MTS resulted in dose-dependent increases in cloacal gland index and cloacal foam production. Both supplemented groups showed significant increases in the diameter of seminiferous tubules and the number of Sertoli cells.ConclusionMarked growth-promoting, antibacterial, and reproductive-enhancing effects were observed when incorporating aqueous extract of MTS into the quails’ drinking water, particularly at a dosage of 20 ml/L.