Phytochemical Research Articles

A bibliometric review of functional ingredients and their efficacy in developing functional biscuits

Introduction Numerous studies have concluded that the functional ingredients benefit human health. Similarly, present times have seen exponential growth in functional food in bakery product segments like breads and biscuits. However, there is a lack of information on functional ingredients and their usefulness in developing functional bakery products. This bibliometric study addresses this gap by identifying the current research trends in functional ingredients. Objective To investigate current research trends on functional ingredients and their usefulness in developing functional biscuits. Method The study followed the “Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews” standards for retrieving literature. The study went through three major stages, “assembling”, “arranging”, and “assessing” to retrieve 612 articles from the Scopus database from 2013 to 2023. Through further filtering, 395 articles were selected. Result The analysis was conducted using R Studio and VOS viewer. The performance analysis and science mapping tools were used to evaluate the articles. The results showed a 5.76% annual growth in publication trends. The most researched functional ingredients were antioxidants, bioactive compounds, and dietary fiber. The review summarized the most studied foods used to develop functional biscuits and highlighted the most experimented technological advancements. Conclusion The study revealed the need for future research studies on functional ingredients with a focus on studying the implications of technical implications of technical advancements in extracting functional ingredients from foods. The study highlights the significance of future studies based on the acceptance of functional biscuits and their sensory properties focusing on the mass population. The study derives the knowledge on possible applicability of functional ingredients in developing new formulations from publications and their usefulness in developing new formulations. This insight on the applicability of functional ingredients provides an opportunity for biscuit/cookie manufacturing to boost consumption among the population to a new ascending graph.

Thraustochytrids and Algae as Sustainable Sources of Long-Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Aquafeeds

There is limited ability to biosynthesize long-chain omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA in food webs leading to humans. Seafood is the key source of ω3 LC-PUFA, with aquaculture expected to meet rising global demand; however, marine fish have a high dietary requirement for EPA and DHA themselves. This was traditionally met using unsustainable dietary fish oil and fish meal, but limited supply and environmental concerns have dictated research on replacements. Among the industrial sources of EPA and DHA, microalgae and especially thraustochytrids stand out as resources with high concentrations. Although unicellular, thraustochytrids are not microalgae as they are not photosynthetic but instead are microheterotrophs. This removes the light requirement and facilitates high yields of monoculture for the production of single-cell oils. The availability, in high concentrations, of usually one or the other essential fatty acid permits a calibration of the EPA and DHA dose, which is especially useful as their effects have mainly been considered together in medical and aquaculture research. EPA and DHA have different effects on cell function and are precursors of different bioactive compounds. Using thraustochytrids, microalgae, and heterotrophic dinoflagellates, the importance of DHA has been investigated. DHA was essential for optimizing the growth of the early life stages of scallops and finfish and was preferentially incorporated into fish membrane phospholipids. The production of microalgae and microheterotrophs can contribute to the treatment of wastewater and waste gas, further enhancing their sustainability and reducing the environmental costs of aquaculture.

Discovery of Chemical Constituents with Anti-Atopic Dermatitis Properties from Aster koraiensis

Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory dermatological disease characterized by persistent scratching and recurrent eczema. Due to the influence of environmental variables on the cause of this disease, there remains an ongoing interest in the development of therapeutic interventions. Previous studies have shown that various plants of the genus Aster and its derived phytochemicals possess efficacy in treating inflammatory-mediated diseases, including atopic dermatitis. Therefore, the present study investigated a potential compound with anti-atopic dermatitis properties derived from Aster koraiensis leaves, specifically targeting HaCaT keratinocyte cells. First, we isolated eleven compounds with three unknown compounds, including two polyacetylenes (1 and 3) and a benzoic acid derivative (4). The chemical structures of the isolates were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR, specific rotation, acid hydrolysis, and quantum chemical calculations. Next, we treated an A. koraiensis extract and all isolates to HaCaT keratinocyte, followed by stimulation with TNF-α/IFN-γ. Among bioactive compounds, astersaponin J (7) exhibited a significant reduction in the levels of inflammatory cytokines associated with atopic dermatitis at a concentration of 2.5 μM. These findings suggest that chemicals obtained from an A. koraiensis 95% ethanol extract and derived compounds are potential therapeutics to help reduce the immunological response driven by atopic dermatitis.

Elevated Netrin-4 Expression and Its Action in Infrapatellar Fat Pad

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by inflammation and cartilage degradation. The infrapatellar fat pad (IFP), located beneath the patella within the knee joint, serves as a key anatomical structure involved in cushioning and supporting the knee. It is also an active endocrine organ that secretes various bioactive substances, potentially influencing the local inflammatory environment and contributing to KOA pathogenesis. Netrin-4 (NTN4), a protein primarily known for its role in neuronal guidance, has been implicated in various non-neuronal functions, including inflammatory processes and tissue remodeling. This study aims to explore the involvement of NTN4 in KOA, focusing on its expression in the IFP and its potential impact on disease progression. This study involved 82 patients with radiographically confirmed KOA undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The correlation between NTN4 expression and OA pathology, including Kellgren–Lawrence (K/L) grades, was investigated. NTN4-expressing cells were identified in the stromal vascular fraction, including fibroblastic, hematopoietic, and endothelial cells of the IFP. To elucidate the molecular effects of NTN4, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed on fibroblastic cells treated with recombinant NTN4. Subsequent quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to validate the RNA-seq findings. NTN4 expression was significantly elevated in the IFP of patients with advanced KOA (K/L grades 3 and 4) compared to those with early-stage disease (K/L grade 2). Higher NTN4 expression was found in fibroblastic cells, and RNA-seq analysis revealed upregulation of genes associated with pro-inflammatory pathways, including IL-17 and TNF-α signaling, and matrix degradation. Notably, genes including IL6, MMP1, CXCL1, and CXCL8 were significantly elevated, as confirmed by qPCR, indicating NTN4’s role in promoting an inflammatory and catabolic environment. Our findings suggest that NTN4 plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of KOA by promoting inflammation and matrix degradation within the IFP. Although NTN4 expression was not directly correlated with clinical symptoms, its elevated expression in fibroblastic cells and influence on inflammatory and degradative pathways suggest a potential mechanism for exacerbating joint damage. Targeting NTN4 could offer a novel therapeutic approach to mitigating inflammation and slowing disease progression in KOA, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Further research is needed to clarify NTN4’s specific roles and therapeutic potential in OA management.

The endocannabinoid system in bovine tissues: characterization of transcript abundance in the growing Holstein steer

BackgroundThe endocannabinoid system (ECS) is highly integrated with seemingly all physiological and pathophysiological processes in the body. There is increasing interest in utilizing bioactive plant compounds, for promoting health and improving production in livestock. Given the established interaction between phytochemicals and the ECS, there are many opportunities for identification and development of therapies to address a range of diseases and disorders. However, the ECS has not been thoroughly characterized in cattle, especially in the gastrointestinal tract. The objective of this study was to characterize the distribution and transcriptional abundance of genes associated with the endocannabinoid system in bovine tissues.MethodsTissues including brain, spleen, thyroid, lung, liver, kidney, mesenteric vein, tongue, sublingual mucosa, rumen, omasum, duodenum, jejunum, ileum and colon were collected from 10-mo old Holstein steers (n = 6). Total RNA was extracted and gene expression was measured using absolute quantification real time qPCR. Gene expression of endocannabinoid receptors CNR1 and CNR2, synthesis enzymes DAGLA, DAGLB and NAPEPLD, degradation enzymes MGLL and FAAH, and transient receptor potential vanilloids TRPV3 and TRPV6 was measured. Data were analyzed in R using a Kruskal-Wallis followed by a Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Results are reported as the median copy number/20 ng of equivalent cDNA (CN) with interquartile range (IQR).ResultsThe greatest expression of CNR1 and CNR2 was in the brain and spleen, respectively. Expression of either receptor was not detected in any gastrointestinal tissues, however there was a tendency (P = 0.095) for CNR2 to be expressed above background in rumen. Expression of endocannabinoid synthesis and degradation enzymes varied greatly across tissues. Brain tissue had the greatest DAGLA expression at 641 CN (IQR 52; P ≤ 0.05). DAGLB was detected in all tissues, with brain and spleen having the greatest expression (P ≤ 0.05). Expression of NAPEPLD in the gastrointestinal tract was lowest in tongue and sublingual mucosal. There was no difference in expression of NAPEPLD between hindgut tissues, however these tissues collectively had 592% greater expression than rumen and omasum (P ≤ 0.05). While MGLL was found to be expressed in all tissues, expression of FAAH was only above the limit of detection in brain, liver, kidney, jejunum and ileum. TRPV3 was expressed above background in tongue, rumen, omasum and colon. Although not different from each other, thyroid and duodenum had the greatest expression of TRPV6, with 285 (IQR 164) and 563 (IQR 467) CN compared to all other tissues (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThese data demonstrate the complex distribution and variation of the ECS in bovine tissues. Expression patterns suggest that regulatory functions of this system are tissue dependent, providing initial insight into potential target tissues for manipulation of the ECS.

Endophytic Streptomyces: an underexplored source with potential for novel natural drug discovery and development.

Streptomyces has long been considered as key sources for natural compounds discovery in medicine and agriculture. These compounds have been demonstrated to possess different biological activities, including antibiotic, antifungal, anticancer, and antiviral effects. As a result, new pharmaceuticals and antibiotics have been developed. Nevertheless, there have been only a few novel discoveries of bioactive compounds in the past decades from Streptomyces in natural habitats. There is, therefore, now a renewed search for new Streptomyces species having the potential to produce many compounds from one strain in lesser explored natural habitats that may be helpful in fighting diseases. Consequently, modern genome mining approaches are imperative for discovering structurally novel natural compounds with therapeutic applications from untapped sources. In light of these facts, endophytic Streptomyces from plants may offer new avenues for the discovery of bioactive compounds with distinctive chemical properties and activities. In the present review, we present the progress made in isolating natural compounds from endophytic Streptomyces originating from plants which have remarkable antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and antifungal properties. A different of distinct structural classes of compounds were reported from endophytic Streptomyces, such as indolosequiterpene, macrolides, flavones, peptides, naphthoquinones, and terpenoids. Further, we discussed modern genomics progress in finding biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) encoding compounds. Overall, this review might provide valuable insights into the potential for novel drug discovery from untapped endophytic Streptomyces in the future.

The Application of Untargeted Metabolomic Approaches for the Search of Common Bioavailable Metabolites in Human Plasma Samples from Lippia citriodora and Olea europaea Extracts.

Lippia citriodora and Olea europaea are known for their shared common bioactivities. Although both matrices are rich in similar families of bioactive compounds, their specific phytochemical compounds are mostly different. Since these compounds can be metabolized in the organism, this study hypothesized that common bioavailable metabolites may contribute to their similar bioactive effects. To test this, an acute double-blind intervention study in humans was conducted with blood samples collected at multiple time points. Using an untargeted metabolomic approach based on HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS, 66 circulating metabolites were detected, including 9 common to both extracts, such as homovanillic acid sulfate and glucuronide derivates, hydroxytyrosol sulfate, etc. These common metabolites displayed significantly different Tmax values depending on the source, suggesting distinct metabolization pathways for each extract. The study highlights how shared bioavailable metabolites may underlie similar bioactivities observed between these two plant sources.

Vitamin B Complex Encapsulation in Bacterial Nanocellulose: A Novel System for Heat and Chemical Stabilization in Food Products

Bacterial nanocellulose has been commonly used as a gelling or stabilizing agent in the food industry and as an excipient in pharmacology. However, due to its physical and chemical properties, such as its high degradation temperature and the ease with which it can interact with other molecules, bacterial nanocellulose has been established as a material with great potential for the protection of bioactive compounds. This research shows the capacity of bacterial nanocellulose to establish interactions with B vitamins (B1, B2, B3 and B12) through different sorption isotherms, mainly by means of the BET, GAB and TSS models. First, the degradation of the vitamin B complex, which mostly occurs upon heating, is minimized in the presence of BNC, herein proposed as a thermal stabilizer. Secondly, BNC is shown to bind to micronutrients and act as dietary fiber. BNC acts as a thickening and water-binding agent. The effects of BNC are determined to occur as an encapsulation system that facilitates affinity adsorption in mono- and multilayers. Finally, bacterial nanocellulose was used as an encapsulating agent for the vitamin B complex by spray drying. It is demonstrated that BNC is a very successful new nanomaterial for encapsulation, with a high level of adsorption, and for the protection of hydro-soluble vitamins. BNC has shown great potential to adsorb vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B12 owing to their hydroxyl groups, which are responsible for its water or vitamin sorption. Due to the features of bacterial nanocellulose, it is possible to use it as a raw material in the food industry to protect micronutrients during the thermal process.

In Silico evaluation of the anti-influenza potential of Streptomyces bioactive compounds

Influenza, a highly contagious respiratory viral disease characterized by its short incubation period and severe symptoms, is treatable with antiviral drugs targeting viremia. Among new antiviral agents, Actinobacteria, particularly from the Streptomyces genus, are notable for their ability to produce potent antiviral compounds. This study evaluates the antiviral potential of Streptomyces sp. KSF 103, isolated from Kuala Sat, Jerantut, Pahang, against the Influenza A virus (IAV). Using molecular docking tools such as AutoDock Vina and PyMOL, the interactions of four compounds – hypoxanthine, vitamin D, purine, and aminocaproic acid – were analyzed against IAV proteins. Vitamin D exhibited the highest binding affinity against H3N2’s M2 (−9.6 kcal/mol) and HA (−9.2 kcal/mol) proteins. Additionally, RMSD dynamics parameters indicated that the best-scoring complexes are predicted to be satisfactorily stable under physiological settings. These findings suggest that Streptomyces sp. KSF 103 could be a promising source for developing new antiviral treatments against influenza.

Effect of alginate concentration on the physicochemical characteristics and entrapment efficiency of bioactive compounds in microencapsulated bekasam extract

Bekasam extract functions as an effective agent for reducing cholesterol and hypertension levels. One of the practical methods to utilize this extract is through microencapsulation. During the manufacturing of consumables, microcapsules can be incorporated into foods and beverages as functional additives. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate microencapsulation methods of bekasam extract, specifically by using ionic gelation with sodium alginate as a coating at varying concentrations of 0.50%, 0.75%, 1.00%, and 1.25%. The results showed that the diameter of the microcapsules produced ranged from 3.71-3.92 mm, and the yield was 21.83-40.47%. The microcapsules contained 6.3-10.08% peptides and 37.89-46.39 ppm of Lovastatin with an entrapment efficiency of 17.31- 27.69% and 59.08-72.76%, respectively. The microcapsules made with alginate (1.25%) had higher levels of Lovastatin and peptides.

Sucupira oleoresin-based doxorubicin pH-sensitive nanoemulsions: A potential nanomedicine approach to enhance the safety profile and anticancer activity

Plant derivatives-based nanocarriers as a matrix for delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs are capable of enhancing conventional antitumor drugs' cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Bearing in mind that the use of doxorubicin-loaded sucupira oleoresin nanoemulsions can play a significant role in increasing specificity, and efficacy, whilst improvement the chemotherapy safety profile we hypothesize that this nanocarrier may be a powerful alternative strategy for cancer therapy. Thus, the aimed of this research was to prepare and characterize this nanoemulsion, as well as assess the antitumor activity and toxicity in an experimental murine breast cancer model. In the first place, the phytocompounds present in sucupira oleoresin were identified by Liquid chromatography docked Orbitrap-mass spectrometer. Afterward, the doxorubicin-loaded sucupira oleoresin nanoemulsion was prepared using hot homogenization followed by ultrasonic calibration method. Then, nanoemulsions were characterized in terms of mean diameter, polydispersity, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and kinetic release. Toxicity and in vivo antitumor activity were also evaluated. The bioactive compounds found in sucupira oleoresin were terpenes, especially sesqui- and vouacapan diterpenes, which have a wide range of biological activities. The sucupira oleoresin nanoemulsions with or without doxorubicin were stable under refrigeration, monodisperse featuring an average size of around 60 nm, and negative zeta potential. High encapsulation doxorubicin content (98 %) was related to the ion-pair formed between doxorubicin and oleic acid. Stability studies in different biological media suggest that the proposed formulation can remain stable after intravenous administration. Meanwhile, the release outcomes indicate a pH-responsive profile. In vivo studies show that nanoemulsions with a combination of doxorubicin and oleoresin exhibit better efficacy and reduced effects on organs of potential toxicity such as the liver, heart, and intestine as well as less body weight loss likened to the free drug. Owing to promising results, we highlight that the doxorubicin-loaded sucupira oleoresin nanoemulsion could supply gain better insights for the combined breast cancer treatment.

Activation of Secondary Metabolism and Protease Activity Mechanisms in the Black Koji Mold Aspergillus luchuensis through Coculture with Animal Cells.

The activation of secondary metabolism plays a pivotal role in the discovery of novel natural products. We recently developed a coculture method involving actinomycetes and mouse macrophage-like cells to stimulate the production of bioactive compounds. A black koji mold, Aspergillus luchuensis IFM 61405, markedly enhanced the production of (3S,8R)-8-hydroxy-3-carboxy-2-methylenenonanoic acid (1a), (3S,8S)-8-hydroxy-3-carboxy-2-methylenenonanoic acid (1b), and (3S)-9-hydroxy-3-carboxy-2-methylenenonanoic acid (2) when coincubated with J774.1 mouse macrophage cells. The production of 1 and 2 increased by at least 3.5-fold and 2.7-fold, respectively, compared to monoculture after 7 days. A mechanistic investigation revealed that a protease from strain IFM 61405 plays a key role in enhancing the production of 1 and 2. This enhancement was not replicated in A. niger IFM 59706, a nonkoji mold, despite the presence of biosynthetic genes for 1 and 2 in A. niger IFM 59706. Furthermore, the addition of protease inhibitors suppressed the production of 1 and 2, suggesting that proteins secreted from animal cells, likely degraded by proteases secreted by strain IFM 61405, serve as precursors for 1 and 2. The results show that the strategy of coculturing koji mold with animal cells has the potential to enhance the production of natural products.

Sustainable Valorisation of Coffee Waste as a Protein Source, Mycelium-Based Packaging Material and Renewable Energy Pellet

This study investigates the valorization of spent coffee grounds (SCGs) through protein extraction and their application in mycelium-based packaging and renewable energy pellets. Three extraction methods—mechanical stirring, ultrasound-assisted, and CO2-assisted extraction—were applied to SCGs. CO2-assisted extraction yielded the highest protein content at 34.24%, followed by mechanical stirring (31.46%) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (28.51%). The total polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity were also highest in the CO2 extracts, suggesting that this method preserves bioactive compounds most effectively. After protein extraction, SCGs were tested as a component in mycelium-based packaging, with results showing an apparent density of 0.551 g/cm3 and compression resistance of 3.354 MPa, indicating its suitability for structural applications. The energy value of SCGs remained high, with a calorific value of 19,887 J/g DW, slightly decreasing after extraction but still sufficient for renewable energy production. These findings highlight the potential of SCGs as a multi-functional resource, contributing to sustainable solutions across various industries.

Tomato Waste as a Sustainable Source of Antioxidants and Pectins: Processing, Pretreatment and Extraction Challenges

Tomato processing waste (TPW), a byproduct of the tomato processing industry, is generated in significant quantities globally, presenting a challenge for sustainable waste management. While traditionally used as animal feed or fertilizer, TPW is increasingly recognized for its potential as a valuable raw material due to its high content of bioactive compounds, such as carotenoids, polyphenols and pectin. These compounds have significant health benefits and are in growing demand in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Despite this potential, the broader industrial utilization of TPW remains limited. This review explores the influence of various processing, pretreatment and extraction methods on the concentration and stability of the bioactive compounds found in TPW. By analyzing the effects of these methodologies, we provide insights into optimizing processes for maximum recovery and sustainable utilization of TPW. Additionally, we address the major challenges in scaling up these processes for industrial application, including the assessment of their ecological footprint through life cycle analysis (LCA). This comprehensive approach aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and industrial implementation, facilitating the valorization of TPW in line with circular economy principles.

Upcycling of Food By-Products and Waste: Nonthermal Green Extractions and Life Cycle Assessment Approach

Food loss and waste constitute a substantial threat to global food system sustainability, representing 38% of energy consumption in the supply chain. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development highlights a vision integrating social, economic, and environmental pillars. Addressing environmental impact requires recycling (destruction for new creations) and upcycling (converting waste into valuable products). This review highlights nonthermal green extractions and sustainable techniques in upcycling raw materials such as olives, red beetroot, sugar beet, and coffee, which are widely used in the food industry. Nonthermal processing efficiently extracts bioactive compounds and utilizes waste. Key approaches for its valorization include life cycle assessment, environmental footprint analysis, energy efficiency strategies, digitalization, and sustainability considerations. However, challenges remain in calculating their environmental impact. Waste and by-product valorization from raw materials address disposal issues, offering economic and environmental benefits. Nonthermal techniques show optimistic opportunities in green extraction and sustainable upcycling. The focus is on raw materials including olives, red beetroot, sugar beet, and coffee byproducts, and possible product development. There are powerful connections offering industry tools for impactful sustainability management and guiding decisions on waste-to-value or ‘upcycling’ products. The review contributes to filling the gap in usage of nonthermal processing in upcycling of waste and by-products.

Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds, Antioxidant Capacity, and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Lipophilic and Hydrophilic Extracts of the Pericarp of Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima at Two Stages of Ripening.

Chronic disease inflammation requires safe complementary treatments. The pericarp of Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima (PTM) contains potential anti-inflammatory metabolites. This study aimed to evaluate the bioactive components, antioxidant capacity, and anti-inflammatory effects of PTM extracts at two ripening stages. The bioactive compounds in the hydrophilic and lipophilic extracts of mature and green pericarps were identified by GC-MS and UV-VIS, while the antioxidant capacity was measured by free radical reduction. Anti-inflammatory effects were tested using a rat paw edema model with carrageenan-induced edema, indomethacin, or PTM extracts (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg). The effect of mature hydrophilic extract was further evaluated in an air pouch model, where rats received the placebo, carrageenan, indomethacin, or the extract (500 and 1000 mg/kg). Leukocytes, cytokines, and markers of oxidative stress were evaluated. The results showed the presence of organic compounds, total phenols, and flavonoids. The mature hydrophilic extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. At 500 mg/kg, it reduced edema, leukocyte migration, and levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α while managing oxidative stress and preventing histological damage. In conclusion, PTM contains bioactive compounds with potential pharmacological properties. The hydrophilic extract of the mature pericarp, at a dose of 500 mg/kg, exhibits an enhanced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

Isolation and Characterization of Stigmasterol from Psidium guajava Leaves: A Promising Bioactive Compound with Therapeutic Potential

This study aimed to isolate and characterize bioactive compounds from the leaves of Psidium guajava Linn. The hydroethanolic extract yielded 32% (80 g) from the crude material, which was subjected to column chromatography for fractionation. Structural elucidation of the isolated compound was performed using 1D and 2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, including COSY, HSQC, and HMBC experiments. The spectral data confirmed the presence of stigmasterol, characterized by its distinct chemical shifts and long-range correlations between carbon and proton atoms. Stigmasterol was isolated as a white, crystalline solid and identified by its unique physio-chemical properties, such as solubility in organic solvents, a melting point of 163-164°C, and molecular formula C29H48O. This compound is known for its significant biological activities, including antibacterial, antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. By employing advanced techniques like 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, the study provides precise structural elucidation of stigmasterol, contributing to natural product research and reinforcing the medicinal potential of guava leaves as a source of pharmacologically active compounds. This adds to the existing knowledge of the plant’s bioactive components and their applications in medicinal chemistry

The progress of Mycobacterium tuberculosis drug targets

Tuberculosis (TB) has been troubling humans for hundreds of years, is a highly infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection, Mtb can infect almost all organs of the body and is one of the deadly infectious diseases in the world. At present, the first-line treatment regimen has a long treatment cycle and is prone to multiple drug resistance. Anti-tuberculosis drugs and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) resistance are increasing year by year, and new targets and new bioactive compounds are urgently needed to treat this disease. This review focuses on the latest reported anti-TB drug targets and related compounds in recent years, reviews the current TB drug regimen and major defects, outlines the key drug targets developed to date in Mtb, and the current situation of newly discovered anti-TB resistant forms of drugs. To provide a reference for the research and development of new anti-TB drugs and bring new treatment strategies for TB patients.

Streptomyces sp. from desert soil as a biofactory for antioxidants with radical scavenging and iron chelating potential

Iron homeostasis is vital for normal physiology, but in the majority of circumstances, like iron overload, this equilibrium is upset leading to free iron in the plasma. This condition with excess iron is known as hemochromatosis, which has been linked to many side effects, including cancer and liver cirrhosis. The current research aimed to investigate active molecules from Streptomyces sp. isolated from the extreme environment of Bahawalpur deserts. The strain was characterized using 16 S rRNA sequencing. Chemical analysis of the ethyl acetate cure extract revealed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins. Multiple ultraviolet (UV) active metabolites that were essential for the stated pharmacological activities were also demonstrated by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Additionally, Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed the primary constituents of the extract to compose of phenol and ester compounds. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay was used to assess the extract’s antioxidant capacity, and the results showed a good half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 0.034 µg/mL in comparison to the positive control ascorbic acid’s 0.12 µg/mL. In addition, iron chelation activity of extract showed significant chelation potential at 250 and 125 µg/mL, while 62.5 µg/mL showed only mild chelation of the ferrous ion using ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) as a positive control. Likewise, the extract’s cytotoxicity was analyzed through 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay using varying concentrations of the extract and showed 51% cytotoxicity at 350 µg/mL and 65% inhibition of cell growth at 700 µg/mL, respectively. The bioactive compounds from Streptomyces sp. demonstrated strong antioxidant and iron chelating potentials and can prolong the cell survival in extreme environment.

A Review on Bacteriocin Extraction Techniques from Lactic Acid Bacteria.

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are widely known for the production of secondary metabolites such as organic acids and other bioactive compounds such as bacteriocins. Finding a broad application in food and healthcare, bacteriocins have received increased attention due to their inherent antimicrobial properties. However, the extraction of bacteriocins is often plagued with low yields due to the complexity of the extraction processes and the diversity of bacteriocins themselves. Here, we review the current knowledge related to bacteriocin extraction on the different extraction techniques for isolating bacteriocins from LAB. The advantages and disadvantages of each technique will also be critically appraised, taking into account factors such as extraction efficiency, scalability and cost-effectiveness. This review aims to guide researchers and professionals in selecting the most suitable approach for bacteriocin extraction from LAB by illuminating the respective advantages and limitations of various extraction techniques.