Phytochemical Research Articles

Antimicrobial Potential of Tinospora Cordfolia (Willd.) Miers (Menispermaceae) Against Disease-Causing Clinical Bacterial Pathogens

Tinospora cordifolia is an important plant growth herb belonging to the family Menispermaceae. It is a climbing deciduous and succulent shrub considered traditional medicine in Ayurveda. It has various sources of bioactive compounds and medicinal properties that produce great varieties of secondary metabolites with a broad spectrum of biological activities. It is well known for its nutraceutical food that provides health benefits mainly due to the phytochemicals present in the plant such as alkaloids, flavonoids, proteins, and carbohydrates. It has a wide application in pharmacological research such as antitumor, antiinflammatory, Cerebro-protective, cardio-protective, immunoregulatory, Vasorelaxation, and anxiolytic. Tinospora cordifolia showed antimicrobial activity against a few pathogenic bacteria and pathogenic fungi but not many clinical bacterial pathogens and hospital-acquired infections. In this study, the author focused on the antimicrobial activity of Tinospora cordifolia against eight clinical pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, MRSA, Proteus mirabilis, Salmonella typhi, Shigella sonnei, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumanii) isolated mainly from patient’s sample. T. cordifolia was extracted from two different solvents, methanol and water. The antimicrobial activity was determined using an agar well diffusion assay. T. cordifolia extract has antibacterial activity against all tested clinical bacterial pathogens and has the highest antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi in all ratios of methanol concentrations (47.5μg/ml). The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of Tinospora cordifolia methanol extract was found at 100μg/ml. Methanol solvent concentration with the most active antibacterial activity of the extract was of different concentrations as 300μg/ml followed by 450μg/ml and 500μg/ml.

Circulating Extracellular Vesicles as Promising Biomarkers for Precession Diagnostics: A Perspective on Lung Cancer.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as promising biomarkers in liquid biopsy, owing to their ubiquitous presence in bodily fluids and their ability to carry disease-related cargo. Recognizing their significance in disease diagnosis and treatment, substantial efforts have been dedicated to developing efficient methods for EV isolation, detection, and analysis. EVs, heterogeneous membrane-encapsulated vesicles secreted by all cells, contain bioactive substances capable of modulating recipient cell biology upon internalization, including proteins, lipids, DNA, and various RNAs. Their prevalence across bodily fluids has positioned them as pivotal mediators in physiological and pathological processes, notably in cancer, where they hold potential as straightforward tumor biomarkers. This review offers a comprehensive examination of advanced nanotechnology-based techniques for detecting lung cancer through EV analysis. It begins by providing a brief overview of exosomes and their role in lung cancer progression. Furthermore, this review explores the evolving landscape of EV isolation and cargo analysis, highlighting the importance of characterizing specific biomolecular signatures within EVs for improved diagnostic accuracy in lung cancer patients. Innovative strategies for enhancing the sensitivity and specificity of EV isolation and detection, including the integration of microfluidic platforms and multiplexed biosensing technologies are summarized. The discussion then extends to key challenges associated with EV-based liquid biopsies, such as the standardization of isolation and detection protocols and the establishment of robust analytical platforms for clinical translation. This review highlights the transformative impact of EV-based liquid biopsy in lung cancer diagnosis, heralding a new era of personalized medicine and improved patient care.

Natural Compounds in Kidney Disease: Therapeutic Potential and Drug Development.

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) poses a major global health challenge, affecting millions of individuals and contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality. Traditional treatments have focused primarily on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression rather than reversing or halting kidney damage. However, recent advancements in natural compound research have unveiled promising new avenues for therapeutic development. Extensive research has been conducted to showcase the antioxidant advantages for kidney health, supporting the potential effectiveness of natural and synthetic products in clinical and experimental research. Bioactive substances found in large quantities in food, such as polyphenols, have emerged as adjuvants. This review manuscript aims to provide a comprehensive overview of natural compounds and their potential efficacy, mechanisms of action, and clinical applications in the prevention and treatment of various kidney diseases. This review emphasizes the connection between oxidative stress and inflammation in diabetic nephropathy (DN), which leads to harmful effects on kidney cells due to pathological damage. A lower incidence of DM2-related problems and a slower progression of end-stage renal disease have been associated with the consumption of these compounds.

Phytochemical Profile and Bioactive Compounds in Aqueous Leaf Extract of Anacardium occidentale: A GC-MS Analysis

This study investigates the phytochemical composition of the aqueous leaf extract of Anacardium occidentale (cashew tree) using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The aqueous extraction yielded a crude leaf extract rich in bioactive compounds. Major compounds identified include γ-Terpinene (13.62%), known for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties, and Securinine (2.08%), which exhibits anticancer and antiviral effects. Additionally, dl-α-Tocopherol (5.6%), a potent antioxidant, was found. Other notable compounds, such as 1,2,3-Benzenetriol (6.53%), demonstrated strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while Naphthalene (1.78%) exhibited antimicrobial activity. These compounds, among others identified in the extract, suggest that Anacardium occidentale leaves have a rich phytochemical profile with significant medicinal properties. The results underscore the plant’s potential for treating oxidative stress-related diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and bacterial infections. This research highlights the therapeutic promise of Anacardium occidentale and emphasizes the need for further studies on the synergistic effects of these compounds. These findings could serve as a foundation for developing new, plant-based therapeutic agents for managing chronic diseases and infections.

Phytochemical Profile and Bioactive Compounds in Aqueous Seed Extract of Irvingia gabonensis: A GC-MS Analysis

Irvingia gabonensis, commonly known as African mango, has gained significant attention for its nutritional and medicinal properties. This study investigated the phytochemical profile and identified bioactive compounds present in the aqueous seed extract of I. gabonensis using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The analysis revealed a variety of bioactive compounds, including fatty acids (e.g., palmitic acid, linoleic acid), terpenoids, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds. Key findings include the high peak area percentages of 2-Undecanone (31.3%) and 1,3-O-Benzylidine glyceryl-2-myric (15.4%), suggesting their significant bioactivity. The results indicate potential therapeutic applications in managing oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic disorders. Further studies, including in vivo evaluations, are recommended to explore these therapeutic potentials and establish safety profiles.

The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Polysaccharides Extracted from Moringa oleifera Leaves on IEC6 Cells Stimulated with Lipopolysaccharide In Vitro

Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) is a plant with significant medicinal and nutritional value and contains various bioactive compounds, particularly in its leaves (MOL). This study sought to explore the impact of M. oleifera leaf polysaccharides (MOLPs) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated intestinal epithelial cells (IEC6) and to uncover the mechanisms involved. The cytotoxicity of MOLP on IEC6 cells was assessed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, which demonstrated a safe concentration range of 0–1280 µg/mL. The impact of MOLP on cell viability was further evaluated over 12 to 48 h. IEC6 cells were treated with three concentrations of MOLP low (25 µg/mL), medium (50 µg/mL), and high (100 µg/mL) alongside LPS (50 µg/mL) stimulation for one day. The findings revealed that treatment with MOLP significantly promoted cell migration and increased the production of interleukin-10 (IL-10), while it simultaneously decreased cell apoptosis and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and interleukin 6 (IL-6). Additionally, MOLP treatments across all concentrations significantly reduced the expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4), myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88), phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa B-alpha (pIκB-α), and phosphorylated NF-κB p65 signalling pathways. Moreover, MOLP restored the expression of tight junction proteins, such as zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin, which had been disrupted by LPS. These results indicate that MOLP exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting inflammatory signalling pathways and maintaining intestinal barrier integrity through the upregulation of tight junction proteins in IEC6 cells. This study enhances our understanding of the anti-inflammatory capabilities of MOLP.

Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of OSC Gene Family in Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Cucurbitaceae)

Gynostemma pentaphyllum is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant of considerable application value and commercial potential, primarily due to its production of various bioactive compounds, particularly dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins that are structurally analogous to ginsenosides. Oxidosqualene cyclase (OSC), a pivotal enzyme in the biosynthesis of triterpenoid metabolites in plants, catalyzes the conversion of oxidosqualene into triterpenoid precursors, which are essential components of the secondary metabolites found in G. pentaphyllum. To elucidate the role of OSC gene family members in the synthesis of gypenosides within G. pentaphyllum, this study undertook a comprehensive genome-wide identification and characterization of OSC genes within G. pentaphyllum and compared their expression levels across populations distributed over different geographical regions by both transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR experimental validation. The results identified a total of 11 members of the OSC gene family within the genome of G. pentaphyllum. These genes encode proteins ranging from 356 to 767 amino acids, exhibiting minor variations in their physicochemical properties, and are localized in peroxisomes, cytoplasm, plasma membranes, and lysosomes. All GpOSCs contain highly conserved DCTAE and QW sequences that are characteristic of the OSC gene family. A phylogenetic analysis categorized the GpOSCs into four distinct subfamilies. A cis-element analysis of the GpOSC promoters revealed a substantial number of abiotic stress-related elements, indicating that these genes may respond to drought conditions, low temperatures, and anaerobic environments, thus potentially contributing to the stress resistance observed in G. pentaphyllum. Expression analyses across different G. pentaphyllum populations demonstrated significant variability in OSC gene expression among geographically diverse samples of G. pentaphyllum, likely attributable to genetic variation or external factors such as environmental conditions and soil composition. These differences may lead to the synthesis of various types of gypenosides within geographically distinct G. pentaphyllum populations. The findings from this study enhance our understanding of both the evolutionary history of the OSC gene family in G. pentaphyllum and the biosynthetic mechanisms underlying triterpenoid compounds. This knowledge is essential for investigating molecular mechanisms involved in forming dammarane-type triterpenoid saponins as well as comprehending geographical variations within G. pentaphyllum populations. Furthermore, this research lays a foundation for employing plant genetic engineering techniques aimed at increasing gypenoside content.

In Silico and Network Pharmacology Approach for Mechanistic Exploration of Rhododendron arboreum Sm. Leaf in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Rhododendron arboreum Sm. (Burans) (family Ericaceae) has traditionally been used in Indian medicine to treat liver disorders. However, its mechanism against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains elusive. This study utilized in silico methods – network pharmacology, ADMET prediction, molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations for mechanistic exploration of Rhododendron arboreum leaves (RAL) in NAFLD. Bioactive compounds were sourced from open databases and assessed for drug-likeness and ADMET profiles. Network pharmacology identified key protein interactions using the STRING platform. GO analysis identified galactose metabolism, pentose and glucuronate interconversions and other processes in treating NAFLD. Molecular docking revealed that amyrin and pectolinarigenin had the highest binding affinities, with dock scores of –12.2 kcal/mol (AKR1C3-amyrin), –10.2 kcal/mol (PI3K-amyrin), –9.3 kcal/mol (AKR1C3-pectolinarigenin) and –9.6 kcal/mol (HSD17B1-pectolinarigenin). MD simulations, focusing on RMSD and RMSF analyses, confirmed the stability of these interactions. The RMSD graphs revealed stable binding pocket regions, highlighted in pink. Notably, the RMSF values for PHE (B:306) in the AKR1C3-amyrin complex and ARG (A:294) in the PI3K-amyrin interaction were 0.623 nm and 0.1586 nm, respectively, indicating stable ligand interactions. Our findings holistically clarify toxicity data, potential bioactives targets and molecular mechanisms of RAL against NAFLD, paving the way for future research.

Biogenic synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles using Eucalyptus globulus Leaf Extract and its impact on germination and Phytochemical composition of Lactuca sativa

Green nanomaterials are increasingly used to improve plant growth and phytochemical traits. This study employed Eucalyptus globulus leaf extract, a medicinal plant, as a bio-reductant and capping agent to synthesize copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs), which were applied as seed primers for Lactuca sativa (lettuce), an annual species prized for its short germination time and rich bioactive compounds. Characterization of CuO-NPs using FTIR, XRD, SEM, and EDX confirmed their purity, crystalline structure, and an average particle size of 74.66 nm. The CuO-NPs were applied at concentrations of 0.01 mg/ml, 0.02 mg/ml, 0.03 mg/ml, and 0.04 mg/ml. At the highest concentration (0.04 mg/ml), significant reductions in physical growth parameters were observed, with plant length, height, and width measuring 7.85 cm, 5.50 cm, and 3.48 cm, respectively, compared to 13.70 cm, 11.52 cm, and 11.18 cm in control plants. Phytochemical analysis identified tannins, alkaloids, phytosterols, saponins, flavonoids, and glycosides in all methanolic extracts, while carotenoids were absent at higher concentrations (0.03 mg/ml and 0.04 mg/ml) due to phytotoxicity. FTIR analysis revealed a prominent peak at 858 cm⁻¹ at 0.01 mg/ml, indicating the presence of antioxidant-rich aromatic phenyl compounds. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that CuO-NPs synthesized using Eucalyptus globulus extract enhance phytochemical constituents at optimal concentrations but inhibit growth and reduce key phytochemicals at higher doses. Future research should optimize nanoparticle concentrations to minimize phytotoxicity while maximizing beneficial effects on plant growth and bioactive compounds.

Cytotoxic Effects of ZnO and Ag Nanoparticles Synthesized in Microalgae Extracts on PC12 Cells

The green synthesis of silver (Ag) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs), as well as Ag/Ag2O/ZnO nanocomposites (NCs), using polar and apolar extracts of Chlorella vulgaris, offers a sustainable method for producing nanomaterials with tunable properties. The impact of the synthesis environment and the nanomaterials’ characteristics on cytotoxicity was evaluated by examining reactive species production and their effects on mitochondrial bioenergetic functions. Cytotoxicity assays on PC12 cells, a cell line originated from a rat pheochromocytoma, an adrenal medulla tumor, demonstrated that Ag/Ag2O NPs synthesized with apolar (Ag/Ag2O NPs A) and polar (Ag/Ag2O NPs P) extracts exhibited significant cytotoxic effects, primarily driven by Ag+ ion release and the disruption of mitochondrial function. However, it is more likely the organic content, rather than size, influenced anticancer activity, as commercial Ag NPs, despite smaller crystallite sizes, exhibit less effective activity. ZnO NPs P showed increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, correlated with higher cytotoxicity, while ZnO NPs A produced lower ROS levels, resulting in diminished cytotoxic effects. A comparative analysis revealed significant differences in LD50 values and toxicity profiles. Differentiated PC12 cells showed higher resistance to ZnO, while AgNPs and Ag/Ag2O-based materials had similar effects on both cell types. This study emphasizes the crucial role of the synthesis environment and bioactive compounds from C. vulgaris in modulating nanoparticle surface chemistry, ROS generation, and cytotoxicity. The results provide valuable insights for designing safer and more effective nanomaterials for biomedical applications, especially for targeting tumor-like cells, by exploring the relationships between nanoparticle size, polarity, capping agents, and nanocomposite structures.

Biomarkers and Seaweed-Based Nutritional Interventions in Metabolic Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is a complex, multifactorial condition characterized by risk factors such as abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and hypertension, which significantly contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death worldwide. Early identification and effective monitoring of MetS is crucial for preventing serious cardiovascular complications. This article provides a comprehensive overview of various biomarkers associated with MetS, including lipid profile markers (triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) ratio and apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A1 (ApoB/ApoA1) ratio), inflammatory markers (interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1), C-reactive protein (CRP), leptin/adiponectin ratio, omentin and fetuin-A/adiponectin ratio), oxidative stress markers (lipid peroxides, protein and nucleic acid oxidation, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), uric acid) and microRNAs (miRNAs) such as miR-15a-5p, miR5-17-5p and miR-24-3p. Additionally, this review highlights the importance of biomarkers in MetS and the need for advancements in their identification and use for improving prevention and treatment. Seaweed therapy is also discussed as a significant intervention for MetS due to its rich content of fiber, antioxidants, minerals and bioactive compounds, which help improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, increase insulin sensitivity and promote weight loss, making it a promising nutritional strategy for managing metabolic and cardiovascular health.

Unveiling the potential of bioactive compounds from Linum usitatissimum L. to target Hepatocellular carcinoma: an in silico based approach

Bioactive metabolites from Linum usitatissimum L. have been extensively explored for their anti-cancer and antioxidant potential in several cancer cell lines. The bioactive chemicals that have been reported are being assessed using in silico methods to create a new antagonist that may effectively target hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting c-Kit (stem cell factor receptor) and HBXIP (hepatitis B X-interacting protein). Dysregulation in function or overexpression of c-Kit and HBXIP shows the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. The objective of this study is to use computational approaches to choose the most suitable candidate that interacts with our chosen target proteins, c-Kit and HBXIP, derived from flaxseed. From the online resources, namely RCSB and PubChem, the 3D structures of the proteins and bioactive compounds are obtained. The drug likeness study and ADMET profiling of these bioactive compounds were performed, and the selected fourteen compounds were considered for docking analysis. The molecular docking study revealed that secoisolariciresinol (SECO) has a comparable interaction affinity of −5.5 kcal/mol and −7.5 kcal/mol with HBXIP and c-KIT, respectively, when compared to the redock co-crystal complex (-3.5 kcal/mol and −12.4 kcal/mol, respectively). The results of the molecular dynamics simulation study demonstrate the constancy of the SECO_HBXIP and SECO_c-Kit complexes when compared to the redock complex. The average root-mean-square fluctuation (RMSF), root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) values, gyration (Rg) and hydrogen bonding provide additional evidence of the significant binding and stability of the complexes. Moreover, in vitro cell viability assay on HepG2 also showed a significant reduction in the cell proliferation after the treatment with SECO.

Encapsulation of Olea europaea Leaf Polyphenols in Liposomes: A Study on Their Antimicrobial Activity to Turn a Byproduct into a Tool to Treat Bacterial Infection.

According to the innovative and sustainable perspective of the circular economy model, Olea europaea leaves, a solid byproduct generated every year in large amounts by the olive oil production chain, are considered a valuable source of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, with many potential applications. In particular, the following study aimed to valorize olive leaves in order to obtain products with potential antibacterial activity. In this study, olive leaf extracts, rich in polyphenols, were prepared by ultrasound-assisted extraction using green solvents, such as ethanol and water. The extracts were found to be rich in polyphenols up to 26.7 mgGAE/gleaves; in particular, hydroxytyrosol-hexose isomers (up to 6.6 mg/gdryextract) and oleuropein (up to 324.1 mg/gdryextract) turned out to be the most abundant polyphenolic compounds in all of the extracts. The extracts were embedded in liposomes formulated with natural phosphocholine and cholesterol, in the presence or in the absence of a synthetic galactosylated amphiphile. All liposomes, prepared according to the thin-layer evaporation method coupled with an extrusion protocol, showed a narrow size distribution with a particle diameter between 79 and 120 nm and a good polydispersity index (0.10-0.20). Furthermore, all developed liposomes exhibited a great storage stability up to 90 days at 4 °C and at different pH values, with no significant changes in their size and polydispersity index. The effect of the encapsulation in liposomes of O. europaea leaf extracts on their antimicrobial activity was examined in vitro against two strains of Staphylococcus aureus: ATCC 25923 (wild-type strain) and ATCC 33591 (methicillin-resistant S. aureus, MRSA). The extracts demonstrated good antimicrobial activity against both bacterial strains under investigation, with the minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 140 to 240 μgextract/mL and the minimum bactericidal concentration ranging from 180 to 310 μgextract/mL, depending on the specific extract and the bacterium tested. Moreover, a possible synergistic effect between the bioactive compounds inside the extracts tested was highlighted. Notably, their inclusion in galactosylated liposomes highlighted comparable or slightly increased antimicrobial activity compared to the free extracts against both bacterial strains tested.

Recent Advances in the Application of Foodborne Substances in Hyperuricemia.

Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a purine metabolism disorder characterized by the excessive production or inadequate excretion of uric acid. Current pharmacological strategies targeting uric acid reduction have potential adverse effects. Following the concept of "homology of medicine and food", food ingredients are increasingly being explored to prevent HUA and gout, with xanthine oxidase (XOD) emerging as a crucial therapeutic target in managing HUA. Recent scientific investigations have determined that uric acid-lowering substances come from various food sources, such as seafood, dairy products, and agricultural products. These bioactive substances have attracted wide attention because of their effective antihyperuricemia and XOD inhibitory ability. In this study, the pathogenesis, many side effects of uric acid-lowering drugs, and some components of uric acid-lowering drugs are mainly described, with emphasis on the source, composition, preparation technology, and mechanism of uric acid-lowering peptides.

The Role of Exosomes in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury.

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the critical and serious diseases in the cardiovascular system, and reperfusion therapy is the preferred treatment for AMI, but it often worsens cardiac injury and leads to myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI), which can further result in arrhythmia, heart failure, and death. More and more studies have found that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-derived exosomes play an important role in improving the cardiac injury after MIRI, and can exert anti-apoptosis, anti-inflammation, anti-fibrosis, and promotion of endothelial cells and angiogenesis functions. This review summarizes the mechanisms of action of exosomes in the treatment of MIRI and discusses exosomes as a new approach for the treatment of MIRI. 1) Exosomes play a variety of protective roles in MIRI by carrying miRNAs and other bioactive substances. 2) Exosomes can be used as carriers of drugs or active substances for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Biochemical Characterization of Some Plum Cultivars Available on the Romanian Market

Four plum cultivars commonly grown in Romania, ‘Angeleno’, ‘Anna Späth’, ‘Silvia’ and ‘Stanley’, were analyzed with regard to several parameters, including water content, juice pH, phenolic compounds (total and some major classes), carotenoids, ascorbic acid and soluble sugars. Among the four studied cultivars, ‘Silvia’ ranked the highest in terms of total phenolic content (82,345 mg/kg DW), flavonoids (43,171 mg/kg) and anthocyanins (1991 mg/kg). Hydroxybenzoic acids were found to be an important phenolic component; up to 33,971 mg/kg was found in ‘Angeleno’. The hydroxycinnamic acid content was highest in ‘Stanley’, and stilbenes were most prevalent in ‘Anna Späth’. Tannins were found in significant amounts only in fruit peel and were only present in some of the cultivars. Carotenoids were mostly present in the epicarp, with the maximum amount identified in ‘Anna Späth’ (313 mg/kg). The main compounds were β-carotene (of which the highest amount was identified in ‘Silvia’), lutein (with the highest amount found in ‘Silvia’) and lycopene (with the highest amount detected in ‘Stanley’). ‘Silvia’ also contained the highest amounts of ascorbic acid (7895 mg/kg in pulp and 12,229 mg/kg in peel). The highest soluble sugar content was found in the pulp of ‘Stanley’ (142,120 mg/kg), while ‘Anna Späth’ contained the lowest amount of soluble sugar. ‘Stanley’ also had less acidic pulp juice. Among the four cultivars, ‘Silvia’ ranked the highest in most classes of bioactive compounds, including total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthocyanins, tannins (peel only), β-carotene, lutein and ascorbic acid.

Bioactive Molecules from Lignocellulose‐Derived Platform Chemicals

AbstractThe ever‐increasing prevalence of diseases and inadequate resources on Earth are threats to society. Biomass is an abundant resource, and bioactive compounds produced from biomass are environmentally benign in contrast to conventional chemical synthesis methods, which frequently depend on non‐renewable resources. In addition, the functionalized monomers from biomass allow the atom economical synthesis of bioactive molecules. This review aims to provide insight into the synthesis of bioactive molecules from the lignocellulose‐derived platform chemicals. Existing methodology and catalytic systems are summarized for the synthesis of targeted bioactive molecules from cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin‐derived platform chemicals. The biological activities of bioactive molecules obtained from biomass, such as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anticancer properties, are discussed.

Computational dissection through network pharmacology and structure-based analysis unravels mechanistic actions of bioactive compounds in a hepatoprotective herb, Picrorhiza kurroa for the treatment of NAFLD and NASH

Non-Alcoholic fatty liver disease has become a silent pandemic worldwide with no authorized medicine available. Picrorhiza kurroa is a traditional hepatoprotective herb wherein extracts provide therapeutic efficacy but not the individual compounds. Hence, the aim of the study is exploration of active molecules in P. kurroa extracts and identification of mechanistic actions to pinpoint potential leads towards drug development. We employed network pharmacology to identify the significance of combinatorial effect of compounds on multiple targets. The NAFLD/NASH associated genes encoding protein targets overlapped with the predicted protein targets of P. kurroa compounds. Then, overlapping targets were considered further to capture the interactive targets from Protein-Protein-Interaction network of NAFLD and NASH. The networks were generated to capture the role of proteins in different signaling pathways, diseases, and effective compounds as therapeutics. Furthermore, structural, and biophysical analysis was performed for significant complexes. We observed that the compounds like astragalin, Picroside-I, Vernicoside, Rutin, Quercetin, Kaempferol, Gallic acid, Ellagic acid in P. kurroa acted synergistically by enhancing the bioavailability of active compounds and affecting various morbidities of NAFLD through involvement in different signaling and disease pathways such as oxidative phosphorylation, FoxO signaling, inflammation, several cancerous and diabetic pathways. The network pharmacology revealed the interactive behavior of proteins involved in NAFLD treated by P. kurroa compounds. Furthermore, molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation study showed potential candidates in therapeutics. Overall, the study suggested multi-target drug discovery for treating complex diseases by providing leads in herbal extracts as potential therapeutic botanicals.

Profiling Pro-Inflammatory Proteases as Biomolecular Signatures of Material-Induced Subcutaneous Host Response in Immuno-Competent Mice.

Proteases are important modulators of inflammation, but they remain understudied in material-induced immune response, which is critical to clinical success of biomedical implants. Herein, molecular expression and proteolytic activity of three distinct proteases, namely neutrophil elastase, matrix metalloproteinases, cysteine cathepsins (cathepsin-K and cathepsin-B) are comprehensively profiled, in the subcutaneous host response of immuno-competent mice against different biomaterial implants. Quantitative non-invasive monitoring with activatable fluorescent probes reveals that different microparticulate materials induce distinct levels of protease activity with degradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid inducing the strongest signal compared to nondegradable materials such as polystyrene and silica oxide. Furthermore, protein expression of selected proteases, attributable to both their inactive and active forms, notably deviates from their activities associated only with their active forms. Protease activity exhibits positive correlations with protein expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 6 but negative correlation with pro-fibrotic cytokine transforming growth factor β1. This study also demonstrates the predictive utility of protease activity as a non-invasive, pro-inflammatory parameter for evaluation of the anti-inflammatory effects of model bioactive compounds on material-induced host response. Overall, the findings provide new insights into protease presence in material-induced immune responses, facilitating future biomaterial assessment to evoke appropriate host responses for implant applications.

Mechanochemical-assisted Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent as a platform for an olive leaves biorefinery: Extraction of bioactive compounds and methane production

This study introduces an innovative biorefinery process aimed at maximizing the utilization of olive leaves. The proposed approach seeks to extract valuable phenolic compounds, lignocellulosic material, and biomethane from olive leaves. To achieve this, a combined technique involving mechanochemical extraction and sustainable solvents, specifically natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES), was employed. Unlike conventional methods, NADES were simultaneously formed and utilized for extraction within a ball mill. The optimal conditions for maximum extraction of high-value compounds were 0.5 g of OL using 10 mL of ChCl:Gl (3:1) and 1.1 h in a ball mill. The recovered yields were 14.5 ± 2.9 g/kg OL of lignocellulosic fraction and 1.3 ± 0.3 g gallic acid eq./kg OL of phenolic compounds. OL waste generated after the optimized extraction process was evaluated for methane production, obtaining 142 ± 53 mL CH4/g VS OL waste compared to 126 ± 30 mL CH4/g VS untreated OL. Therefore, NADES represent promising solvents for the biorefinery process and reduce dependence on organic solvents.