Phytochemical Profile Research Articles

Comprehensive study on pharmacognostic, pharmacological, and toxicological features of Ficus racemosa in Alzheimer's disease using GC-MS and molecular docking analyses.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) presents as a widespread neurodegenerative condition impacting over 55 million individuals globally, with an annual rise of 10 million new cases. Despite its staggering prevalence, the absence of a definitive cure establishes the need for a revisit. We explore the alternative strategies, focusing on the potential therapeutic efficacy of ethanolic extracts derived from the fruit and leaf of Ficus racemosa Linn. The investigation comprehensively explores pharmacognostic, phytochemical, toxicological, and pharmacological characteristics. In addition to pharmacognostic and physicochemical analyses, toxicological evaluations conducted on experimental animals demonstrated the innocuous nature of the ethanolic extracts (from both fruit and leaf) of F. racemosa, as evidenced by assessments of hemocompatibility, oxidative parameters, and vital organ histology. Phytochemical profiling via GC-MS identified 48 and 80 phytoconstituents in the fruit and leaf extracts, respectively. These constituents were screened for bioactive potential using the "Lipinski Rule of Five," resulting in the selection of 25 and 33 constituents from fruit and leaf extracts, respectively. Subsequent molecular docking studies against the AChE enzyme revealed promising interactions of the selected phytoconstituents. Furthermore, the top-scoring phytoconstituents were subjected to in silico screening to assess their interactions with β- and γ-secretase enzymes, in addition to the AChE enzyme. The cumulative findings substantiate the therapeutic utility of the plant extracts, particularly in the context of AD. In conclusion, our investigation highlights the promising therapeutic potential of selected phytoconstituents derived from ethanolic extracts of F. racemosa in mitigating AD pathology by targeting key enzyme sites such as AChE, β-, and γ-secretase.

Systematic review on phytochemical profile and pharmacology of a mangrove shrub, Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea C.F.Gaertn

Systematic review on phytochemical profile and pharmacology of a mangrove shrub, Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea C.F.Gaertn

Advances in valorization of sweet potato peels: A comprehensive review on the nutritional compositions, phytochemical profiles, nutraceutical properties, and potential industrial applications.

During food production, food processing, and supply chain, large amounts of food byproducts are generated and thrown away as waste, which to a great extent brings about adverse consequences on the environment and economic development. The sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) is cultivated and consumed in many countries. Sweet potato peels (SPPs) are the main byproducts generated by the tuber processing. These residues contain abundant nutrition elements, bioactive compounds, and other high value-added substances; therefore, the reutilization of SPP holds significance in improving their overall added value. SPPs contain abundant phenolic compounds and carotenoids, which might contribute significantly to their nutraceutical properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, prebiotic, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and lipid-lowering effects. It has been demonstrated that SPP could be promisingly revalorized into food industry, including: (1) applications in diverse food products; (2) applications in food packaging; and (3) applications in the recovery of pectin and cellulose nanocrystals. Furthermore, SPP could be used as promising feedstocks for the bioconversion of diverse value-added bioproducts through biological processing.

Nutritional, Phytochemical, and Rheological Profiles of Different Oat Varieties and Their Potential in the Flour Industry

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate from a nutritional, phytochemical, and rheological point of view different varieties/lines of oats cultivated in Romania. In this sense, the proximate composition (proteins, lipids, mineral substances, starch, and carbohydrates), the total polyphenols content (TPC) of individual polyphenols and macro and microelements of 20 oat varieties/lines were determined. In order to evaluate the potential for use in the flour industry (pasta, bread, and biscuits)., a variety of oats with optimal nutritional properties and active principles was used to obtain oat/wheat composite flours in different proportions (10–30% oat flour) and subjected to rheological analysis using the Chopin Mixolab test (Chopin Technologies, Paris, France) The results showed a protein content between 14.36–17.08%, lipid content between 6.01–9.03%, starch between 44.13–52.95%, total mineral substances between 0.93–1.65%, carbohydrates between 65.16–69.32% and energy value between 389.81–409.86 kcal/100 g. The TPC content varied between 614.76–1244.58 µgGAE/g, and the average values of individual polyphenols were between 1.87 μg/g (rosmarinic acid) and 28.18 μg/g (gallic acid). Regarding the macroelements content, potassium (K) was the major element (203.19 μg/g), followed by calcium (Ca) (181.71 μg/g) and magnesium (Mg) (105.79 μg/g). The level of microelements varied between 3.02 μg/g for nickel (Ni) and 60.25 μg/g for iron (Fe). Multivariate data analysis PCA was used to correlate the obtained data. The rheological analysis using the MIXOLAB system proved that, from the point of view of technological properties, composite flours from a mixture of 10–30% oat and wheat flour are the best for obtaining biscuit dough, compared to pasta or pan bread. Following the study and based on nutritional, phytochemical and rheological results, line 2511 was selected as optimal for use in obtaining hypoglycemic flour foods for people with diabetes.

A Perennial Green Revolution to address 21st‐century food insecurity and malnutrition

AbstractFarming practices of the past century have dramatically increased annual crop yields to unprecedented levels but have consequentially created increasing ecological and public health concerns, posing a long‐term threat to global food security. Soil tillage and chemical inputs perpetuate soil erosion, biodiversity loss, wetlands eutrophication, carbon emissions, and other farming stressors. Concomitantly, accompanying poor dietary patterns and malnutrition increase the risk for chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, which account for greater than 70% of global mortality per annum. Altogether, such annual monocropping systems exacerbate food insecurity, necessitating action across the fields of public health, agriculture, nutrition, medicine, and environmental ecology, that is, a transdisciplinary approach. Herein, we argue that the perennialization of crops creates an opportunity to address the challenges of environmental sustainability and nutritional adequacy economically. Unlike annuals, perennial crops have deeper roots for increased drought tolerance and reduced needs for fertilization and irrigation. Adopting perenniality can result in greater drought tolerance and improved soil health while reducing erosion, farming labor, and seed purchasing. Furthermore, perennializing novel staple crops may offer a superior and diverse dietary profile of phytochemicals, fiber, and macronutrients compared to conventional annuals. Instead of traditional perennial tree crops, we focus on intermediate wheatgrass Kernza® (Thinopyrum intermedium) and sunflowers (Helianthus tuberosus, H. maximiliani, and Silphium integrifolium) as exemplars of perennial staple food crops for grain and oil, respectively, at different stages of perennial crop commercialization. Ultimately, we discuss how integrating perenniality has the potential to revolutionize global agriculture and address food security concerns for the remainder of the 21st century.

Diospyros rhodocalyx Kurz induces mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis via BAX, Bcl-2, and caspase-3 pathways in LNCaP human prostate cancer cell line.

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the causes of death in men worldwide. Although treatment strategies have been developed, the recurrence of the disease and consequential side effects remain an essential concern. Diospyros rhodocalyx Kurz, a traditional Thai medicine, exhibits diverse therapeutic properties, including anti-cancer activity. However, its anti-cancer activity against prostate cancer has not been thoroughly explored. This study aims to evaluate the anti-cancer activity and underlying mechanisms of the ethyl acetate extract of D. rhodocalyx Kurz (EADR) related to apoptosis induction in the LNCaP human prostate cancer cell line. Ethyl acetate was employed to extract the dried bark of D. rhodocalyx Kurz. The cytotoxicity of EADR on both LNCaP and WPMY-1 cells (normal human prostatic myofibroblast cell line) was evaluated using MTS assay. The effect of EADR on the cell cycle, apoptosis induction, and alteration in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was assessed by the staining with propidium iodide (PI), Annexin V-FITC/PI, and JC-1 dye, respectively. Subsequent analysis was conducted using flow cytometry. The expression of cleaved caspase-3, BAX, and Bcl-2 was examined by Western blotting. The phytochemical profiling of the EADR was performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). EADR exhibited a dose-dependent manner cytotoxic effect on LNCaP cells, with IC50 values of 15.43 and 12.35 µg/mL after 24 and 48 h, respectively. Although it also exhibited a cytotoxic effect on WPMY-1 cells, the effect was comparatively lower, with the IC50 values of 34.61 and 19.93 µg/mL after 24 and 48 h of exposure, respectively. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated that EADR did not induce cell cycle arrest in either LNCaP or WPMY-1 cells. However, it significantly increased the sub-G1 population in LNCaP cells, indicating a potential induction of apoptosis. The Annexin V-FITC/PI staining indicated that EADR significantly induced apoptosis in LNCaP cells. Subsequent investigation into the underlying mechanism of EADR-induced apoptosis revealed a reduction in MMP as evidenced by JC-1 staining. Moreover, Western blotting demonstrated that EADR treatment resulted in the upregulation of BAX, downregulation of BCL-2, and elevation of caspase-3 cleavage in LNCaP cells. Notably, the epilupeol was a prominent compound in EADR as identified by GC-MS. The EADR exhibits anti-cancer activity against the LNCaP human prostate cancer cell line by inducing cytotoxicity and apoptosis. Our findings suggest that EADR promotes apoptosis by upregulating pro-apoptotic BAX, whereas downregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 results in the reduction of MMP and the activation of caspase-3. Of particular interest is the presence of epilupeol, a major compound identified in EADR, which may hold promise as a candidate for the development of therapeutic agents for prostate cancer.

Salvia verticillata (L.)-Biological Activity, Chemical Profile, and Future Perspectives.

Species belonging to the genus Salvia, Lamiaceae, have been deeply involved in the folk medicine of different nations since ancient times. Lilac sage, or Salvia verticillata L. (S. verticillata) is a less studied species from the genus. However, it seems to have a prominent potential for the future drug discovery strategies of novel phytopharmaceuticals. This review aims to summarise the data on the biological activity and the phytochemical profile of extracts and essential oils derived from S. verticillata. This review is based on data from 57 in vitro and in vivo studies. The chemical profile of S. verticillata includes different synergic compounds like phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenes, and salvianolic acids. Although some small amounts of salvianolic acid B were found in S. verticillata extracts, the major compound among the salvianolic acids is salvianolic acid C, a compound associated with the potential for improving liver fibrosis, cardio- and hepatoprotection, and the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The cannabinoid type 2 receptor agonist β-caryophyllene is one of the major compounds in S. verticillata essential oils. It is a compound with a prominent potential in regenerative medicine, neurology, immunology, and other medical fields. The in vivo and the in vitro studies, regarding S. verticillata highlighted good antioxidant potential, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal activity. S.verticillata was also reported as a potential source of drug candidates for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, because of the inhibitory activity on the acetylcholinesterase. However, the number of studies in this direction is limited.

Approach regarding the biosafety evaluation of black and red currant pomace extracts using Allium cepa test

Abstract In the present work, biosafety evaluation of black and red currant pomace extracts was conducted using in vivo plant test system, such as Allium cepa, a sustainable method which can provide valuable information on the cytotoxic and genotoxic effect of extracts from natural sources in relation with their phytochemical composition. In this view, different aqueous and hydroethanolic extractions from black and red currant pomaces were carried out. For revealing the differences in the phytochemical profile of the studied extracts, rapid, efficient and easy-to-operate analytical techniques such as colorimetry, UV-Vis spectrometry and electrometry were used. Cytogenetic analysis of pomace extracts was achieved using Allium cepa test by scoring the mitotic index, the limit value of cytotoxicity, the phase index of mitosis and presence of chromosomal aberrations for all samples and comparing to the control (tap water). The results have shown that the cytogenetic response depends both on the type of pomaces and on the experimental extraction conditions. Compared to the control sample (22.58 %), a decrease in mitotic index for each analyzed sample was observed. As well, an increase in the cells with chromosomal aberrations was detected in onion root tips exposed to the tested extracts compared to the control (0.69 %). The lowest value of mitotic index (12.44 %) and the highest value of chromosomal aberrations (1.91 %) were recorded from the root tip cells of onion bulbs exposed to the hydroalcoholic extract obtained from red currants pomace using water/ethanol (60:40 v/v). Even if the mitotic index decreased, the limit value of cytotoxicity was higher than 50 %, level considered as a sublethal condition for the organisms. At the same time, the increase of the frequency of chromosomal aberrations is not so significant, and in correlation with the cytotoxicity limit, it does not indicate a genotoxic effect on onion cells. Following these results, it can be concluded that black and red currant pomace extracts can be safely used for possible therapeutic benefits.

Metroxylon sagu Rottb. Fruit Flour as Potential Prebiotics for Selected Probiotics and Phytochemical Profiling of its Methanolic Extract by LC-MS/MS

The plant of Metroxylon sago Rottb. which is found abundantly in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Papua New Guinea, is famous as carbohydrate producing plants. The sago fruit has not been yet extensively used, although they are rich in oligosaccharides which is potential as prebiotic. Sago fruit flour was studied as growth substrate for five selected probiotics and phytochemical profile of its methanol extracts were determined. All bacteria grew well up to 24 h on the growth medium containing sago fruit flour as carbohydrate substitute. However, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus FNCC 0099 and Lactobacillus acidophilus FNCC 0051 showed viability stability up to 72 h, while the others were slightly decreased. The sago fruit flour contained 20.4 mg/g total sugars, 14.8 mg QE/g flavonoids, and 36.7 mg GAE/g phenolics. After extraction of the fruit flour with 80% methanol using an ultrasonicator at 55 °C at 40 kHz for 40 min, the extract was analysed for its phytochemical profiles using untargeted LC-MS/MS screening with negative ionization mode. Seven compounds categorised in three distinct groups i.e., sugar alcohol, plant glycosides and fatty acids, have been identified as having possible prebiotic activity. These include ((1xi)-1,5-anhydro-2,3,6-tris-O-(carboxymethyl)-1-methyl-4-O-methyl-D-glucitol), quercitrin, (15Z)-9,12,13-trihydroxy-15-octadecenoic acid, corchorifatty acid F, 3,5-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2H-chromen-7-yl-hexopyranoside, gynocardin, and (4-methylumbelliferone)-b-D-glucopyranoside. As the sago fruit flour has been proved as potential prebiotic in this study, its extensive prebiotics activity, prebiotic index, and stability under digestive condition will be subjected for further study.

Chromatographic Profiling of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. Extracts for Phytochemical Characterization

Ziziphus mauritiana, commonly known as Chinese date, Ber, and Indian jujube, belongs to the Rhamnaceae family and is native to Southeast Asia. Although it has been naturalized in tropical regions from South Africa to the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent, its phytochemical profile remains underexplored. A comprehensive phytochemical profiling and standardization of extract can be achieved by TLC and HPLC analysis. The study involves the development of improved chromatographic methods for the analysis of local Z. mauritiana leaves, including selection of the mobile phase type, gradient elution method and temperature, which are all potential HPLC parameters that may affect the result of analysis. The leaves were subjected to extraction through maceration utilizing methanol and hexane. The results indicated a percentage yield of 7.28% for hexane and 18.98% for methanol. TLC investigations were conducted using the crude extracts obtained, employing a dual mobile phase system (ethyl acetate: chloroform = 6:4) for the methanol extract and hexane:acetone (6:4) for the hexane extract, respectively. Both systems exhibited successful separation of phytochemicals. The methanol extract was subjected to HPLC profiling in accordance with the established protocols. Naringin was determined to be present through qualitative HPLC screening. Phytochemicals present in the leaves of Z. mauritiana are identified as a result of this research, which also sheds light on the optimal parameters for TLC and HPLC analyses. This research may also provide valuable insight regarding the importance of quality control and formulation of herbal medicines from the standardized extract.

Phytochemical analysis and the first report of decyl gallate and 4-ethoxycoumarin from marine seagrass Posidonia oceanica collected from Benghazi beach Libya

The goal of this research is to examine the chemical composition of the plant and identify the phytochemical constituents of the endemic seagrass species in the Mediterranean Sea, Posidonia oceanica, which has historically been used for a variety of purposes. After doing chemical screening, the existence of triterpenoid and phenolic proteins was discovered. Using preparative thin-layer chromatography and flash column chromatography techniques, seven phenolic compounds were isolated from the methanolic extracts of several plant parts. Namely decyl gallate, sinapinic acid, alpha-methyl cinnamic acid, acetosyringone, and chlorogenic acid from leaves, 4-ethoxycoumarin from rhizomes, and syringic acid from roots. The structures of these compounds were elucidated using spectroscopic methods such as ‘H and 13C-NMR. The spectra were analyzed and visualized using Mnova software and compared with standard spectra from the Willy spectra database, biological magnetic resonance data bank, and chemical book. This is the first report of decyl gallate and 4-ethoxycoumarin from the plant. This study contributes to the understanding of the phytochemical profile of Posidonia oceanica and provides valuable insights into its potential applications in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and industry.

Significance of Tissue Culture in Medicinal Plant Conservation and enhancement of Secondary metabolites by Homoeopathic intervention: A Narrative review

Aim: The objective of this study is to explore the potential of homoeopathic remedies in enhancing the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in endangered medicinal plants. Background: Plants serve as a valuable source of medicine. Plant-based medicines are known for their simplicity, efficiency, and a broad range of activity with well-documented preventative or therapeutic effects. Secondary metabolites are active chemical components found in plants that are responsible for their medicinal properties. However, population growth, increased demand, illicit trafficking is driving the depletion of medicinal plants, and many are on the verge of extinction. The synthesis of phytochemicals in plants for medicinal purpose can be improved through various tissue culture techniques and homoeopathic remedies have been found to boost the generation of secondary metabolites. Methodology and Results: A comprehensive review of the scientific literature was carried out by searching through various databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Wiley, Google Scholar. Numerous investigations were conducted to assess the impact of homoeopathic remedies on the growth, phytochemical composition, and essential oil production of various medicinal plants. The most studied homoeopathic preparations were Phosphorus, Sulphur, and Silicea. Homoeopathic preparations were observed to improve photosynthetic rates by distributing greater amounts of photo-assimilated substances in the leaves, ultimately leading to enhanced growth. Homoeopathic medications work on the initial substances like pyruvic acid, ornithine and proline that contribute to the formation of shikimic acid and acetate, while providing the vital energy needed for plants to grow and flourish. These processes generate organic compounds that serve as precursors for various categories of secondary metabolites. Conclusion, Significance, and Impact of the study: Overall, the results suggest that homoeopathic preparations can positively impact the essential oil yield, growth, phytochemical profile of medicinal plants and expanded possibilities for the synthesis of pharmacologically and biologically active compounds. Research into applying homoeopathy to grow medicinal plants is highly relevant, as it's a long-standing practice aiming to optimize production and improve chemical constituent quality.

Extraction, Characterization, and Biological Activities of Phytochemicals from Terminalia Arjuna (Arjuna) Plant

This study focuses on the comprehensive characterization and biological activities of phytochemicals from the bark of Terminalia Arjuna (Arjuna). The bark, known for its medicinal properties, was extracted using methanol and analyzed for its phytochemical profile. The study employed various spectroscopic methods including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were also evaluated while antimicrobial activity was assessed against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Additionally, the study included characterization by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy (1H and 13C) and infrared (IR) spectroscopy, as well as the determination of acid value, peroxide value, and the presence of aflatoxins. The results provide valuable insights into the potential therapeutic applications of Terminalia arjuna and its phytochemical constituents.

Antibacterial Activity of Methanol Extract of Salvadora Persica (Linn) Stem against Gram-Positive Bacteria Isolated from Oral Infections among the Patients Attending the University Health Clinic of Ahmadu Bello University Zaria

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study presents detailed evaluation of the methanol crude extract of Salvadora persica L. (Miswak) for antibacterial effectiveness specifically against gram-positive bacteria from orally infected individuals. It highlights a significant therapeutic efficacy of the extract, evidenced by inhibition zones of 18-22 mm and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 25 mg/ml, against pathogens with high resistance rates to conventional antibiotics. Additionally, the research provides comprehensive phytochemical profiling of S. persica, contributing valuable insights into its potential as an alternative treatment for oral infections. Full Abstract Salvadora persica L., commonly referred to as Miswak, is a chewing stick commonly used to maintain dental hygiene. The aim was to determine the antibacterial effectiveness of the methanol crude extract of S. persica against gram-positive bacteria obtained from orally infected individuals who were registered at the University Health Clinic of Ahmadu Bello University. A total of twenty (20) samples were collected from patients who were diagnosed with oral infections. These samples underwent traditional biochemical and microbiological testing. The antibiotic susceptibility test was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, and the findings were interpreted following the CLSI standards. The extraction of Salvadora persica L. was carried out using cold maceration with methanol. The crude extract was evaluated using the agar well diffusion and broth dilution techniques. Phytochemical screens were conducted using established procedures. The findings revealed that Staphylococcus aureus had the highest prevalence rate of 60%, whereas Streptococcus sp. had a prevalence rate of 10%. A high level of resistance was detected for amoxicillin (100%), chloramphenicol (85%), ciprofloxacin (60%), ceftriaxone (50%), and gentamycin (47.5%). The cold maceration extraction process yielded in % crude extract yield of 11.59%. The phytochemical elements were saponin, tannin, alkaloid, flavonoid, phenol, heart glycoside, carbohydrate, steroid, and terpenoid. An area of inhibition measuring 18-22mm and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 25mg/ml were employed to detect a significant degree of activity. The methanolic extract of Salvadora persica L. has shown significant therapeutic efficacy against gram-positive bacteria recovered from orally infected patients.

Effect of Pretreatments on the Chemical, Bioactive and Physicochemical Properties of Cinnamomum camphora Seed Kernel Extracts.

Cinnamomum camphora seed kernels (CCSKs) are rich in phytochemicals, especially plant extracts. Phytochemicals play a vital role in therapy due to their strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Extracts from CCSK can be obtained through multiple steps, including pretreatment, extraction and purification, and the purpose of pretreatment is to separate the oil from other substances in CCSKs. However, C. camphora seed kernel extracts (CKEs) were usually considered as by-products and discarded, and their potential bioactive values were underestimated. Additionally, little has been known about the effect of pretreatment on CKE. This study aimed to investigate the effects of pretreatment methods (including the solvent extraction method, cold pressing method, aqueous extraction method and sub-critical fluid extraction method) on the extraction yields, phytochemical profiles, volatile compounds and antioxidant capacities of different CKE samples. The results showed that the CKE samples were rich in phenolic compounds (15.28-20.29%) and alkaloids (24.44-27.41%). The extraction yield, bioactive substances content and in vitro antioxidant capacity of CKE pretreated by the sub-critical fluid extraction method (CKE-SCFE) were better than CKEs obtained by other methods. CKE pretreated by the solvent extraction method (CKE-SE) showed the best lipid emulsion protective capacity. Moreover, the volatile substances composition of the CKE samples was greatly influenced by the pretreatment method. The results provided a fundamental basis for evaluating the quality and nutritional value of CKE and increasing the economic value of by-products derived from CCSK.

Encapsulated pomegranate peel extract as a potential antimicrobial ingredient from food waste.

Pomegranate peel waste is a valuable reservoir of heat-sensitive total hydrolysable tannins (THT), with potential applications in food and pharmaceuticals. Preserving THT is challenging due to degradation post-extraction. We explore ionic gelation as an encapsulation method to optimize THT utilization. Through external gelation, we optimized the process variables using Box-Behnken design. At 40 g kg-1 sodium alginate, 25 g kg-1 calcium chloride, and 300 g kg-1 pomegranate peel extract (PPE), we achieved an 83.65% encapsulation efficiency. Compared to spray drying, external gelation demonstrated superior performance, with enhanced release percentages and stability. Physical, phytochemical, and release profiles of encapsulates were extensively analysed. External gelation achieved an 87.5% release in 30 min, outperforming spray-dried counterparts (69.7% in 25 min). Encapsulated PPE exhibited robust antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) in powdered infant formula, with a 32 ± 0.01 mm zone of inhibition and 300 μg mL-1 minimum inhibitory concentration. Insights into S. aureus growth curves underlined the mechanism of action via membrane potential alterations. The results of carried investigations also showed that the antibacterial activity of the encapsulated PPE extracts against the targeted organism was identical to the antibacterial activity exhibited by synthetic antibiotics used generally to kill microorganisms in food. Therefore, from the findings, it can be concluded that the PPE encapsulate produced using the external gelation technique at the optimized condition displayed superior storage stability possessing strong antimicrobial activity when compared to encapsulate produced using the spray drying technique. External gelation emerges as a potent technique for developing effective encapsulates enriched with natural antimicrobials or antibiotics. This approach holds promise for applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals, enhancing stability and efficacy while reducing reliance on synthetic antibiotics. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Exploring the Pharmacognostical and Phytochemical Profiles of Aqueous Extracts of Kalanchoe.

The use of plants for medicinal purposes has a long history, however it is desirable a continuous evaluation seeking for complementary scientific evidences for their safe application. Species within the Kalanchoe genus are often referred to as "miracle leaf" due to their remarkable healing properties. Traditionally, these plants have been used to treat infections, inflammation, and cancer. Despite their widespread use, the identification of their active components remains incomplete. This study aimed to differentiate K. crenata (KC), K. marmorata (KM), and K. pinnata (KP) by conducting detailed histochemical and phytochemical analyses, and to assess their antioxidant capabilities. The investigation revealed significant differences between the species, highlighting the variability in phenolic (PC) and flavonoid contents (FC) and their distinct antioxidant effects. The KM demonstrated the greatest results (PC: 59.26±1.53 mgEqGA/g; FC: 12.63±0.91 mgEqCQ/g; DPPH⋅ (IC50): 110.66 ug/mL; ABTS⋅+ (IC50): 26.81 ug/mL; ORAC: 9.65±0.75 mmolTE) when compared to KC and KP. These findings underscore a new reference for research within the Kalanchoe genus.

Exploring the Biosafety Potential of Haberlea rhodopensis Friv. In Vitro Culture Total Ethanol Extract: A Comprehensive Assessment of Genotoxicity, Mitotoxicity, and Cytotoxicity for Therapeutic Applications.

The escalating elderly population worldwide has prompted a surge of interest in longevity medicine. Its goal is to interfere with the speed of ageing by slowing it down or even reversing its accompanying effects. As a field, it is rapidly growing and spreading into different branches. One of these is the use of nutraceuticals as anti-ageing drugs. This field is gaining massive popularity nowadays, as people are shifting towards a more natural approach to life and seeking to use natural products as a source of medicine. The present article focuses on the cellular effect of Haberlea rhodopensis Friv. in vitro culture total ethanol extract (HRT), produced by a sustainable biotechnological approach. The extract showed a similar phytochemical profile to plant leaf extract and was rich in primary bioactive ingredients-caffeoyl phenylethanoid glycosides, myconoside, and paucifloside. This study examined the biosafety potential, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and mitochondrial activity of the extract using in vitro cultures. The results showed high cell survival rates and minimal cytotoxic effects on Lep3 cells, with no induction of reactive oxygen species nor genotoxicity. Additionally, the extract positively influenced mitochondrial activity, indicating potential benefits for cellular health. The results are promising and show the beneficial effect of HRT without the observation of any adverse effects, which sets the foundation for its further testing and potential therapeutic applications.

Revealing the Phenolic Composition and the Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Antiproliferative Activities of Two Euphrasia sp. Extracts.

The species of the genus Euphrasia present important medicinal potential according to their traditional uses. However, few studies aim to sustain this fact by scientific evidence. The present study aimed to explore the phytochemical profile and investigate the antioxidant, antimicrobial and antiproliferative potential of E. officinalis subsp. pratensis Fr. (EO) and E. stricta J.P.Wolff ex J.F.Lehm (ES). The tested samples consisted of ethanolic extracts. The identification and quantification of phenolic compounds were performed using spectrophotometric and LC-MS/MS methods. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated using the DPPH, FRAP and xanthine oxidase methods. Antimicrobial properties were screened using disk diffusion, broth microdilution and anti-biofilm assays, while antiproliferative potential was assessed on a colorectal adenocarcinoma human cancer cell line (DLD-1). The LC-MS/MS analysis showed chlorogenic acid and rutin as the dominant constituents in the tested extracts. The antioxidant activity assays showed important capacity for both samples; in vitro antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties were exhibited, especially against Gram-positive bacteria, and an important inhibitory potential was observed on the proliferation of the DLD-1 cell line. The findings in the present study contribute to the recommendation of EO and ES for the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress-related pathologies, cancer and microbial infections.

Pterocarpus soyauxii (Fabaceae) aqueous extract to prevent neuropsychiatric disorders associated with menopause by triggering ROS-dependent oxidative damage and inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, GABA-transaminase, and monoamine oxidase A: In vitro, in vivo, and in silico approaches

Pterocarpus soyauxii (PS) is traditionally used in Cameroon medicine to alleviate postmenopausal symptoms. Previous research has shown that it has tissue-selective potential and estrogen-mimetic effects on vaginal atrophy. Phytoestrogens like 7-O-acetyl formononetin, khrinone A, and 3′,5′-dimethoxy-4-stilbenol were found in its water extract by UHPLC, but there is no evidence of its effects on neurological disorders linked to post-menopause (ND-PO). The study aimed to investigate the phytochemical profile of PS aqueous extract, assess its neuroprotective potential in rats, and explore possible underlying pathways. We used colorimetric assays to study the phytochemical profile of PS extract. Effects of the extract on behavioral parameters, neuronal signaling, and integrity in an 84-day ovariectomized rat model. Molecular docking was performed to assess the ability of 7-O-acetyl formononetin, an isoflavone contained in PS, to cross the BBB and its binding affinity to the active sites of AChE, MAO-A, and GABA-T. Besides, the anti-AChE/BChE, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of PS were assessed by in vitro tests. PS aqueous extract contains polyphenols (656.58 ± 9.18 mgEAG/100gMS), flavonoids (201.25 ± 5.52 mgEQ/100gDW), and tannins (18.42 ± 1.25 mg/100gDW). It slows down anxiety, depressive disorders, cellular disorganization, and neuronal death in the hippocampus, dentate gyrus, and neocortex. In silico modeling was a powerful tool to assess the 7-O-acetylformononetin's ability to cross the BBB and strongly bind and inhibit AChE, MAO-A, and GABA-T. Thus, by combining GABAergic, cholinergic, and serotoninergic modulation, PS aqueous extract also possesses remarkable anti-AChE/BChE in vitro and induces antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential in macrophages. Such estromimetics, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cholinergic, and monoaminergic modulators represent promising activities to develop neuroprotective drugs with optimal therapeutic profiles for menopausal women.