Plant-based Bioactive Compounds Research Articles

Review Deciphering the Anticancer Efficacy of Resveratrol and their Associated Mechanisms in Human Carcinoma.

The scientific world has recently shown wider attention to elucidating the anticancerous potential of numerous plant-based bioactive compounds. Many research studies have suggested that consuming foods high in polyphenols, which are present in large amounts in grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits, may delay the onset of various illnesses, including cancer. Normal cells with genetic abnormalities begin the meticulously organized path leading to cancer, which causes the cells to constantly multiply, colonize, and metastasize to other organs like the liver, lungs, colon, and brain. Resveratrol is a naturally occurring stilbene and non-flavonoid polyphenol, a phytoestrogen with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and anticancer properties. Resveratrol makes cancer cells more susceptible to common chemotherapeutic treatments by reversing multidrug resistance in cancer cells. This is especially true when combined with clinically used medications. Several new resveratrol analogs with enhanced anticancer effectiveness, absorption, and pharmacokinetic profile have been discovered. The present emphasis of this review is the modulation of intracellular molecular targets by resveratrol in vivo and in vitro in various malignancies. This review would help future researchers develop a potent lead candidate for efficiently managing human cancers.

Identification of South African Plant-Based Bioactive Compounds as Potential Inhibitors against the SARS-CoV-2 Receptor.

The expected progress in SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations, as anticipated in 2020 and 2021, has fallen short, exacerbating global disparities due to a lack of universally recognized "safe and effective" vaccines. This study focuses on extracts of South African medicinal plants, Artemisia annua and Artemisia afra, to identify metabolomic bioactive compounds inhibiting the binding of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to ACE2 receptors. The extracts were monitored for cytotoxicity using a resazurin cell viability assay and xCELLigence real-time cell analyzer. Chemical profiling was performed using UPLC-MS/MS, orthogonal projection to latent structures (OPLS), and evaluated using principle component analysis (PCA) models. Identified bioactive compounds were subjected to in vitro SARS-CoV-2 enzyme inhibition assay using standard methods and docked into the spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 using Schrodinger® suite followed by molecular dynamics simulation studies. Cell viability assays revealed non-toxic effects of extracts on HEK293T cells at lower concentrations. Chemical profiling identified 81 bioactive compounds, with compounds like 6″-O-acetylglycitin, 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-26,23-lactone, and sesaminol glucoside showing promising binding affinity. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested less stable binding, but in vitro studies demonstrated the ability of these compounds to interfere with SARS-CoV-2 spike protein's binding to the human ACE2 receptor. Sesaminol glucoside emerged as the most effective inhibitor against this interaction. This study emphasizes the importance of multiplatform metabolite profiling and chemometrics to understand plant extract composition. This finding is of immense significance in terms of unravelling metabolomics bioactive compounds inhibiting the binding of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to ACE2 receptors and holds promise for phytotherapeutics against SARS-CoV-2.

Machine Learning Approaches to Identify and Optimize Plant-Based Bioactive Compounds for Targeted Cancer Treatments

Machine Learning Approaches to Identify and Optimize Plant-Based Bioactive Compounds for Targeted Cancer Treatments

Nanoemulsions of plant-based bioactive compounds with antimicrobial applications: a review

The search for alternative antimicrobial agents is attracting increasing scientific interest. Natural products of plant origin are sources of several substances with proven biological activities, including antimicrobial activity. The encapsulation of these products in the form of a nanoemulsion seeks to overcome problems inherent to these products, such as instability and degradation. Based on these considerations, we carried out a bibliographical survey of nanoemulsions produced from plant-derived substances, such as essential oils and extracts, with antimicrobial potential, focusing on antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activities. Articles and documents published in scientifically relevant journals, as well as keywords classified from Health Sciences Descriptors, were used. All documents relevant to this search reported that nanoemulsions loaded with essential oils and plant extracts from different botanical species had in vitro antimicrobial activity against different microorganisms of medical importance, in addition to enhancing the antimicrobial effects of these bioproducts. Therefore, nanostructured antimicrobials with essential oils and plant extracts can be considered treatment options for microbial diseases: due to their physicochemical properties, they act as better delivery vehicles for natural products with good bioavailability, by reducing toxicity and prolonging the useful life of these natural antimicrobials, thus enhancing treatment for infectious human diseases.

Quantifying the Impact of Different Dietary Rumen Modulating Strategies on Enteric Methane Emission and Productivity in Ruminant Livestock: A Meta-Analysis.

A meta-analysis was conducted with an aim to quantify the beneficial effects of nine different dietary rumen modulating strategies which includes: the use of plant-based bioactive compounds (saponin, tannins, oils, and ether extract), feed additives (nitrate, biochar, seaweed, and 3-nitroxy propanol), and diet manipulation (concentrate feeding) on rumen fermentation, enteric methane (CH4) production (g/day), CH4 yield (g/kg dry matter intake) and CH4 emission intensity (g/kg meat or milk), and production performance parameters (the average daily gain, milk yield and milk quality) of ruminant livestock. The dataset was constructed by compiling global data from 110 refereed publications on in vivo studies conducted in ruminants from 2005 to 2023 and anlayzed using a meta-analytical approach.. Of these dietary rumen manipulation strategies, saponin and biochar reduced CH4 production on average by 21%. Equally, CH4 yield was reduced by 15% on average in response to nitrate, oils, and 3-nitroxy propanol (3-NOP). In dairy ruminants, nitrate, oils, and 3-NOP reduced the intensity of CH4 emission (CH4 in g/kg milk) on average by 28.7%. Tannins and 3-NOP increased on average ruminal propionate and butyrate while reducing the acetate:propionate (A:P) ratio by 12%, 13.5% and 13%, respectively. Oils increased propionate by 2% while reducing butyrate and the A:P ratio by 2.9% and 3.8%, respectively. Use of 3-NOP increased the production of milk fat (g/kg DMI) by 15% whereas oils improved the yield of milk fat and protein (kg/d) by 16% and 20%, respectively. On the other hand, concentrate feeding improved dry matter intake and milk yield (g/kg DMI) by 23.4% and 19%, respectively. However, feed efficiency was not affected by any of the dietary rumen modulating strategies. Generally, the use of nitrate, saponin, oils, biochar and 3-NOP were effective as CH4 mitigating strategies, and specifically oils and 3-NOP provided a co-benefit of improving production parameters in ruminant livestock. Equally concentrate feeding improved production parameters in ruminant livestock without any significant effect on enteric methane emission. Therefore, it is advisable to refine further these strategies through life cycle assessment or modelling approaches to accurately capture their influence on farm-scale production, profitability and net greenhouse gas emissions. The adoption of the most viable, region-specific strategies should be based on factors such as the availability and cost of the strategy in the region, the specific goals to be achieved, and the cost-benefit ratio associated with implementing these strategies in ruminant livestock production systems.

Empirical correlations of drug-and plant-based bioactive compound solubility in supercritical CO2: A comparative evaluation study

Over the last few decades, supercritical fluid extraction process has greatly assisted the search for more medicinal and therapeutic properties of bioactive compounds from an extensive range of botanical matrices. The yield of supercritical fluid extraction is often limited by the solubility of a targeted solute in the solvent and thus knowledge on solubility has become one of the fundamental variables of interest in the extraction process. However, the studies to evaluate the performance of density-based empirical models in estimating the solubility of different drug- and plant-based bioactive compounds were scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to gather the solubility data of 33 drugs and 40 plant-based bioactive compounds at varying temperatures and pressures and correlated them with 26 most widely used density-based models. The solubility data were critically analysed and reported from two perspectives: well-studied solubility-influencing factors such as pressure, temperature, and additional influencing factors what o such as molecular structure and weight. Then, a thorough evaluation of the existing empirical solubility models involving 26 predictive models for 73 bioactive compounds was performed. From the results and findings, it was evident that the 8-parameter Belghait et al. model showed the overall highest accuracies indicated by the lowest absolute average relative deviation of 7.42 %, 10.16 %, and 6.57 %, respectively for all bioactive compounds, drug-based bioactive compounds, and plant-based bioactive compounds. Belghait et al. model is also superior since its predictive performances are the best for 54 % of the bioactive compounds studied. Meanwhile, Kumar and Johnston's, Sung and Shim's, and Sodeifian et al's models demonstrated the best solubility predictions for 3-, 4-, and 6-parameter empirical models, respectively, for both plant and drug-based compounds. As the effects of pressure and temperature on solubility have widely acknowledged, this study also highlights the influence of molecular structure complexity on solubility. The main findings from this comparative evaluation proved that density-based models are efficacious in predicting solubility of both plant and drug-based bioactive compounds.

Plant-based bioactive compounds for grain storage: a comprehensive review

Plant-based bioactive compounds for grain storage: a comprehensive review

Quantum mechanical treatment for potential antiphlogistic effects from the leaf extract of Ocimum basilicum citriodorum using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS)

Abstract The immune biological response systems and inflammation can be triggered by a number of things such as pathogens, damaged cells and toxic substances. In ethnomedicine, leaves of Lemon basil (Ocimum basilicum citriodorum) have been used for their health benefits. This study examines the anti-inflammatory properties of lemon basil stalks. In a GC/MS study, 24 plant-based bioactive compounds were identified. Comparing the activities in 24 compounds with the largest negative binding energy values helped us determine which compound was most active. It can be seen that only two compounds (Campstool and stigmasterol) with the highest binding energies interact with the 2QVD protein; consequently, the compound with the highest binding energy has superior anti-inflammatory activity. In quantum mechanics, electron energy difference between lowest-unoccupied molecular orbitals (LUMO) and highest-occupied molecular orbitals (HOMO) is described by the quantum-mechanical method, electronegativity (χ), electron affinity (A), global hardness (η), global softness (σ) and ionization potential (I) estimated from the optimized structure. Higher energy molecules are more reactive than other substances reported in this study.

Composition, preparation methods, and applications of nanoniosomes as codelivery systems: a review of emerging therapies with emphasis on cancer.

Nanoniosome-based drug codelivery systems have become popular therapeutic instruments, demonstrating tremendous promise in cancer therapy, infection treatment, and other therapeutic domains. An emerging form of vesicular nanocarriers, niosomes are self-assembling vesicles composed of nonionic surfactants, along with cholesterol or other amphiphilic molecules. This comprehensive review focuses on how nanosystems may aid in making anticancer and antibacterial pharmaceuticals more stable and soluble. As malleable nanodelivery instruments, the composition, types, preparation procedures, and variables affecting the structure and stability of niosomes are extensively investigated. In addition, the advantages of dual niosomes for combination therapy and the administration of multiple medications simultaneously are highlighted. Along with categorizing niosomal drug delivery systems, a comprehensive analysis of various preparation techniques, including thin-layer injection, ether injection, and microfluidization, is provided. Dual niosomes for cancer treatment are discussed in detail regarding the codelivery of two medications and the codelivery of a drug with organic, plant-based bioactive compounds or gene agents. In addition, niogelosomes and metallic niosomal carriers for targeted distribution are discussed. The review also investigates the simultaneous delivery of bioactive substances and gene agents, including siRNA, microRNA, shRNA, lncRNA, and DNA. Additional sections discuss the use of dual niosomes for cutaneous drug delivery and treating leishmanial infections, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The study concludes by delineating the challenges and potential routes for nanoniosome-based pharmaceutical codelivery systems, which will be useful for nanomedicine practitioners and researchers.

A computational investigation of potential plant-based bioactive compounds against drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus of multiple target proteins

Drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (DRSA) poses a significant global health threat, like bacteremia, endocarditis, skin, soft tissue, bone, and joint infections. Nowadays, the resistance against conventional drugs has been a prompt and focused medical concern. The present study aimed to explore the inhibitory potential of plant-based bioactive compounds (PBBCs) against effective target proteins using a computational approach. We retrieved and verified 22 target proteins associated with DRSA and conducted a screening process that involved testing 87 PBBCs. Molecular docking was performed between screened PBBCs and reference drugs with selected target proteins via AutoDock. Subsequently, we filtered the target proteins and top PBBCs based on their binding affinity scores. Furthermore, molecular dynamic simulation was carried out through GROMACS for a duration of 100 ns, and the binding free energy was calculated using the gmx_MMPBSA. The result showed consistent hydrogen bonding interactions among the amino acid residues Ser 149, Arg 151, Thr 165, Thr 216, Glu 239, Ser 240, Ile 14, as well as Asn 18, Gln 19, Lys 45, Thr 46, Tyr 109, with their respective target proteins of the penicillin-binding protein and dihydrofolate reductase complex. Additionally, we assessed the pharmacokinetic properties of screened PBBCs via SwissADME and AdmetSAR. The findings suggest that β-amyrin, oleanolic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, and friedelin have the potential to inhibit the selected target proteins. In future research, both in vitro and in vivo, experiments will be needed to establish these PBBCs as potent antimicrobial drugs for DRSA. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Lavandula pedunculata Polyphenol-Rich Extracts Obtained by Conventional, MAE and UAE Methods: Exploring the Bioactive Potential and Safety for Use a Medicine Plant as Food and Nutraceutical Ingredient.

Nowadays, plant-based bioactive compounds (BCs) are a key focus of research, supporting sustainable food production and favored by consumers for their perceived safety and health advantages over synthetic options. Lavandula pedunculata (LP) is a Portuguese, native species relevant to the bioeconomy that can be useful as a source of natural BCs, mainly phenolic compounds. This study compared LP polyphenol-rich extracts from conventional maceration extraction (CE), microwave and ultrasound-assisted extraction (MAE and UAE). As a result, rosmarinic acid (58.68-48.27 mg/g DE) and salvianolic acid B (43.19-40.09 mg/g DE) were the most representative phenolic compounds in the LP extracts. The three methods exhibited high antioxidant activity, highlighting the ORAC (1306.0 to 1765.5 mg Trolox equivalents (TE)/g DE) results. In addition, the extracts obtained with MAE and CE showed outstanding growth inhibition for B. cereus, S. aureus, E. coli, S. enterica and P. aeruginosa (>50%, at 10 mg/mL). The MAE extract showed the lowest IC50 (0.98 mg DE/mL) for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition and the best results for α-glucosidase and tyrosinase inhibition (at 5 mg/mL, the inhibition was 87 and 73%, respectively). The LP polyphenol-rich extracts were also safe on caco-2 intestinal cells, and no mutagenicity was detected. The UAE had lower efficiency in obtaining LP polyphenol-rich extracts. MAE equaled CE's efficiency, saving time and energy. LP shows potential as a sustainable raw material, allowing diverse extraction methods to safely develop health-promoting food and nutraceutical ingredients.

Emerging Role of Plant-Based Bioactive Compounds as Therapeutics in Parkinson's Disease.

Neurological ailments, including stroke, Alzheimer's disease (AD), epilepsy, Parkinson's disease (PD), and other related diseases, have affected around 1 billion people globally to date. PD stands second among the common neurodegenerative diseases caused as a result of dopaminergic neuron loss in the midbrain's substantia nigra regions. It affects cognitive and motor activities, resulting in tremors during rest, slow movement, and muscle stiffness. There are various traditional approaches for the management of PD, but they provide only symptomatic relief. Thus, a survey for finding new biomolecules or substances exhibiting the therapeutic potential to patients with PD is the main focus of present-day research. Medicinal plants, herbal formulations, and natural bioactive molecules have been gaining much more attention in recent years as synthetic molecules orchestrate a number of undesired effects. Several in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies in the recent past have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants, herbal formulations, and plant-based bioactives. Among the plant-based bioactives, polyphenols, terpenes, and alkaloids are of particular interest due to their potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and brain-health-promoting properties. Further, there are no concise, elaborated articles comprising updated mechanism-of-action-based reviews of the published literature on potent, recently investigated (2019-2023) medicinal plants, herbal formulations, and plant based-bioactive molecules, including polyphenols, terpenes, and alkaloids, as a method for the management of PD. Therefore, we designed the current review to provide an illustration of the efficacious role of various medicinal plants, herbal formulations, and bioactives (polyphenols, terpenes, and alkaloids) that can become potential therapeutics against PD with greater specificity, target approachability, bioavailability, and safety to the host. This information can be further utilized in the future to develop several value-added formulations and nutraceutical products to achieve the desired safety and efficacy for the management of PD.

Natural Polymeric Nanobiocomposites for Anti-Cancer Drug Delivery Therapeutics: A Recent Update.

Cancer is one of the most common lethal diseases and the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Effective cancer treatment is a global problem, and subsequent advancements in nanomedicine are useful as substitute management for anti-cancer agents. Nanotechnology, which is gaining popularity, enables fast-expanding delivery methods in science for curing diseases in a site-specific approach, utilizing natural bioactive substances because several studies have established that natural plant-based bioactive compounds can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Bioactive, in combination with nanotechnology, is an exceptionally alluring and recent development in the fight against cancer. Along with their nutritional advantages, natural bioactive chemicals may be used as chemotherapeutic medications to manage cancer. Alginate, starch, xanthan gum, pectin, guar gum, hyaluronic acid, gelatin, albumin, collagen, cellulose, chitosan, and other biopolymers have been employed successfully in the delivery of medicinal products to particular sites. Due to their biodegradability, natural polymeric nanobiocomposites have garnered much interest in developing novel anti-cancer drug delivery methods. There are several techniques to create biopolymer-based nanoparticle systems. However, these systems must be created in an affordable and environmentally sustainable way to be more readily available, selective, and less hazardous to increase treatment effectiveness. Thus, an extensive comprehension of the various facets and recent developments in natural polymeric nanobiocomposites utilized to deliver anti-cancer drugs is imperative. The present article provides an overview of the latest research and developments in natural polymeric nanobiocomposites, particularly emphasizing their applications in the controlled and targeted delivery of anti-cancer drugs.

GC-MS Analysis and Molecular Docking of Plant-based Compounds from Medicinal Plant Sida acuta Burm F. for Antibacterial Potential

Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria cause severe public health issues and mortalities. The evolution of multi-drug resistant bacteria shifted the focus of researchers towards traditional medicine involving bioactive compounds. Plants with bioactive compounds play a pivotal role in treating human diseases. Many of the plant-based bioactive compounds were proven to have the ability to inhibit bacterial growth through different modes of action. Thus, plant-based compounds have been focused on finding potential molecules with antibacterial efficiency to overcome bacterial infection problems. So, in the present study, phytocompounds of Sida acuta Burm F. leaf extract were identified using GC-MS technique and phytocompounds with antibacterial potential were identified through a molecular docking study. The qualitative test carried out indicated the presence of carbohydrates, alkaloids, phenols, terpenoids, flavonoids, amino acids, steroids, glycosides, saponins, quinones and coumarins in the extract. The GC-MS analysis showed the presence of 30 phytocompounds and molecular docking studies revealed the best binding affinity of the phytocompounds Pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidine, Acetonitrile,2-(6-phenantridinyl), 5H-Imidazo(2,1-a)isoindole,2-phenyl and Pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidine towards E. coli biomolecules- 1PHO, 5I5H, 5UW2 and 6NTW respectively. The present study concludes that the phytocompounds of S. acuta have appreciable antibacterial efficiency

Antiplatelet drugs: Potential therapeutic options for the management of neurodegenerative diseases.

The blood platelet plays an important role but often remains under-recognized in several vascular complications and associated diseases. Surprisingly, platelet hyperactivity and hyperaggregability have often been considered the critical risk factors for developing vascular dysfunctions in several neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and multiple sclerosis. In addition, platelet structural and functional impairments promote prothrombotic and proinflammatory environment that can aggravate the progression of several NDDs. These findings provide the rationale for using antiplatelet agents not only to prevent morbidity but also to reduce mortality caused by NDDs. Therefore, we thoroughly review the evidence supporting the potential pleiotropic effects of several novel classes of synthetic antiplatelet drugs, that is, cyclooxygenase inhibitors, adenosine diphosphate receptor antagonists, protease-activated receptor blockers, and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitors in NDDs. Apart from this, the review also emphasizes the recent developments of selected natural antiplatelet phytochemicals belonging to key classes of plant-based bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids as potential therapeutic candidates in NDDs. We believe that the broad analysis of contemporary strategies and specific approaches for plausible therapeutic treatment for NDDs presented in this review could be helpful for further successful research in this area.

Bioprospective Role of Ocimum sanctum and Solanum xanthocarpum against Emerging Pathogen: Mycobacterium avium Subspecies paratuberculosis: A Review.

Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is a chronic, contagious, and typically life-threatening enteric disease of ruminants caused by a bacterium of the genus Mycobacterium, but it can also affect non-ruminant animals. MAP transmission occurs through the fecal-oral pathway in neonates and young animals. After infection, animals generate IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10, resulting in a Th2 response. Early detection of the disease is necessary to avoid its spread. Many detection methods, viz., staining, culture, and molecular methods, are available, and numerous vaccines and anti-tuberculosis drugs are used to control the disease. However, the prolonged use of anti-tuberculosis drugs leads to the development of resistance. Whereas vaccines hamper the differentiation between infected and vaccinated animals in an endemic herd. This leads to the identification of plant-based bioactive compounds to treat the disease. Bioactive compounds of Ocimum sanctum and Solanum xanthocarpum have been evaluated for their anti-MAP activity. Based on the MIC50 values, Ursolic acid (12 µg/mL) and Solasodine (60 µg/mL) were found to be suitable for anti-MAP activity.

Combination Modality Using Quercetin to Enhance the Efficacy of Docetaxel in Prostate Cancer Cells.

The standard of care chemotherapy drug presently used to treat castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), docetaxel (Doc), also develops chemoresistance, thereby reducing its clinical utility. Since resistance to chemotherapy drugs can be overcome by co-treatment with plant-based bio-active compounds we undertook the present study to evaluate if quercetin (Que), a flavonoid present in plants such as onions, apples, olives, and grapes can enhance the efficacy of Doc. We studied the separate and combined effects of Que and Doc at different doses and different combination approaches in two different prostate cancer cell lines, DU-145 (moderately aggressive) and PC-3 (very aggressive), and assessed the effects of these combinations on viability, proliferation, and apoptosis. Monotherapy with these drugs showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity; however, only Doc monotherapy showed a statistically significant difference in IC50 levels (IC50 = 4.05 ± 0.52 nM for PC-3 and IC50 = 2.26 ± 0.22 nM for DU-145). In combination treatment, we used three different treatment approaches (TAP). The concentrations and range analyzed were chosen based on the approximate cytotoxicity of 30-50% when the drugs were used individually. Our observations indicate that the most beneficial effect of the Que and Doc combination was obtained with the TAP-2 approach, which is pre-treatment with all doses of Que for 24 h followed by low doses of Doc for another 24 h. Using this approach, we observed synergism at low concentrations of Doc (0.5 and 1.0 nM) and all concentrations of Que. An additive effect was observed at moderate and high concentrations of Doc (1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 nM) and all concentrations of Que in both cell lines. The TAP-2 strategy was also helpful in overcoming Doc resistance in resistant CaP cells. In summary, Que improved the therapeutic effect of Doc in CRPC, and it is proposed that this improvement is mediated through multiple mechanisms. This study provides a novel therapeutic modality for an effective combination using Doc and Que to enhance the efficacy of Doc in an innocuous manner for Doc resistance and CRPC treatment.

Toxicological evaluation of bisphenol analogues: preventive measures and therapeutic interventions.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a prominent endocrine-disrupting compound that shares structural similarities with estrogen. It is widely used, particularly in the production of food packaging, canned goods, and dental sealants. Of the eight bisphenol analogues, BPA is the most frequently utilized chemical in packaging food items, canned foods and dental sealants. However, chronic exposure to BPA can pose severe health risks, particularly in children. To ensure public safety, it is crucial to adopt proper precautionary measures to minimize BPA exposure. This article explores the toxic effects of bisphenols on various body systems and mechanisms, shedding light on their impact on the reproductive and endocrine system, obesity, albuminuria, and the generation of reactive oxygen species. Understanding the detrimental effects of bisphenols on these systems and mechanisms is vital for developing strategies to mitigate their harmful consequences. Furthermore, the article delves into the biotransformation processes of bisphenols, focusing on their occurrence in vertebrates, invertebrates, plants, and microorganisms. Investigating the biotransformation pathways provides valuable insights into the fate of bisphenols in various organisms and ecosystems. Lastly, the article emphasizes preventive measures to avoid bisphenol exposure and highlights the potential use of plant-based bioactive compounds for treatment strategies. By implementing effective preventive measures, such as utilizing BPA-free products and adopting safer alternatives, individuals can reduce their exposure to bisphenols. Additionally, exploring the potential of plant-based bioactive compounds as therapeutic agents offers promising avenues for addressing the adverse effects of bisphenols. The findings presented herein contribute to a better understanding of the novelty, significance, and potential implications of bisphenol research in the field, aiding in the development of safer practices and interventions to safeguard public health.

Epidemiological role of plant pigment bixin in adipaging: In vivo pilot study

BackgroundObesity and aging are linked in a cross talk, a phenomenon known as “Adipaging”. Here, we emphasize the similarity in the underlying mechanisms of obesity and aging and propose the probability of obesity being a risk factor for premature aging. In current times, several side effects of chemical usage in pharmaceuticals used for combatting adipaging have been reported. Thus, search for plant-based bioactive compounds as nutraceuticals against adipaging is the need of the hour. MethodsBixin, an FDA approved food additive and pigment derived from the plant Bixa orellana L. has been studied for its potential beyond a food colourant as a nutraceutical in targeting adipaging in vivo. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan was used as a tool to study the impact of bixin supplementation on body composition of photoaged C57BL/6 mice. ResultsOn comparing the DXA scans pre and post treatment with bixin in photoaged mice, statistically significant and dose dependent impact of bixin among various treatment groups of mice was observed with an increase in mean difference in lean mass ranging from 2.83g (B+ low dose (100 mg/kg of bixin)), to 2.86g (B++ medium dose (250 mg/kg of bixin)) and 3.73 g (B+++ high dose (500 mg/kg of bixin)). Also, a decline in mean difference in fat mass from −0.53g (B+), −0.33g (B++) and −1.033g (B+++) was observed with increasing bixin dosage. ConclusionDXA highlights the protective role of bixin on metabolic health and a probable target as an anti-adipaging nutraceutical.

In Silico Analysis of Plant-Based Bioactive Compounds Targeting Progesterone Receptors for the Treatment of Uterine Leiomyoma

Uterine leiomyomas are the most common benign gynaecological tumours that affect 50% - 60% of females belonging to reproductive age. The role of progesterone in the growth and development of leiomyomas is evident. Progesterone is regulated by progesterone receptors and it acts by activating PI3K/AKT pathway, by increasing proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) levels and Bcl-2 expression. Thus, modulating the receptor can help in the treatment of leiomyomas. The current study involves testing the efficiency of the various plant-based bioactive compounds to bind to the progesterone receptors, which may possess inhibitory or modulatory effects on or against progesterone receptors. These compounds can be further experimented with using other in vivo and in vitro methods to produce phytomedicine based on drugs for the treatment of uterine leiomyomas. This study is an in silico analysis performed using various bioinformatics databases and software. The receptor and ligand structures were retrieved from PDB and PubChem databases. Their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics properties were analyzed using various databases. AutoDock4.2.6 was used for molecular docking, and the results were visualized using LigPlot+. Among 15 compounds selected, 8 compounds had higher binding energies than the control drug Ulipristal acetate i.e., -8.21Kcal/mol. Of which Ursolic acid, Vitamin-D2, and Betulinic acid had binding energies above -9.0 Kcal/mol. This concludes that these compounds can modulate the progesterone receptors, thus decreasing the proliferation and growth of uterine leiomyomas. Further studies can bring out the potential therapeutic effects of these bioactive compounds and they can act as a potential lead compound in the design of novel drug targets for the treatment of uterine leiomyoma.