Antioxidant Potential Research Articles

Pharmacological Evaluation of (Piliostigma thonningi) Root Extract: Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties

Medicinal plants have been widely explored for their therapeutic potential due to their rich phytochemical composition. Piliostigma thonningii, a widely used plant in traditional medicine, is known for its diverse bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. This study aims to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory properties of the methanol root extract of Piliostigma thonningii. Standard qualitative methods revealed the presence of anthraquinones, alkaloids, phenols, tannins, phytosterols, and saponins, while cardiac glycosides, glycosides, flavonoids, and steroids were absent. Antioxidant potential was assessed using DPPH radical-scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP), and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays, revealing dose-dependent radical inhibition. The root crude extract of Piliostigma thonningii exhibits dose-dependent antioxidant activity across DPPH, FRAP, and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays, with higher concentrations showing increased efficacy. The presence of bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds, contributes to its ability to reduce oxidative stress and inhibit free radicals. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated in vitro via albumin denaturation inhibition and in vivo using the carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. At 100 mg/kg, the extract exhibited moderate anti-inflammatory effects, with paw edema peaking at 4 hours (9.093 ± 0.071) and declining at 5 hours (7.362 ± 0.089). However, higher concentrations (200 and 400 mg/kg) showed increased inflammation, peaking at 4 hours (19.621 ± 0.033) and 5 hours (20.001 ± 0.056), respectively. Diclofenac (negative control) demonstrated controlled inflammatory responses, with edema peaking at 4 hours (10.585 ± 0.066) and declining by 5 hours (9.207 ± 0.022). These findings suggest that while the extract has notable anti-inflammatory effects at lower doses, higher doses may exhibit pro-inflammatory tendencies. This study highlights the potential of Piliostigma thonningii root extract as a natural source of anti-inflammatory agents, warranting further investigation for therapeutic applications.

UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS‐Based Metabolic Profiling, Estimation of Antioxidants and Anticancer Potential Assessment of Dicliptera bupleuroides Nees by Caspase Activation, and ROS and MMP Evaluation by Using Fluorescence Microscopy

ABSTRACTDicliptera bupleuroides has been used traditionally for treating various ailments in many countries. Its detailed phytochemical profiling and pharmacological evaluation in treating cancer based on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) analysis along with caspase activation studies has not been done previously. This study was conducted for detailed phytochemical profiling of D. bupleuroides by using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS) and to evaluate its antioxidant and anticancer potential against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells. The extract was subjected to UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS analysis for metabolite profiling, and GNPS Molnet enhancer determined its major phytochemical classes. Phytochemical tests and multimode antioxidant assays were also executed. The extract was pharmacologically evaluated for its anticancer potential against HepG2 cells using CCK‐8 assay. Intracellular ROS generation and loss in MMP were studied by fluorescence microscopy. Network pharmacology and molecular docking of selected compounds were executed. The extract contains total phenolic content as 58.37 ± 0.32 μg GAE/mg extract, and remarkable antioxidant potential was revealed in total antioxidant contents (TAC) and total reducing power (TRP) assays, i.e., 70.4 ± 0.4, 83.2 ± 1.9 μg ascorbic acid equilant (AAE) Borges/mg extract. The UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS analysis showed that the extract contains flavonoid glycosides, phenolic acids, flavans, O‐methylated flavonoids, linoleic acids, terpene glycosides, triterpenoid saponins, and certain other phytoconstituents. Maximum inhibition of 77.13% ± 1.60% against HepG2 cells was observed at 24 h. Loss in MMP by JC‐1 (5,5′,6,6′‐tetrachloro‐1,1′,3,3′‐tetraethylbenzimi‐ dazolylcarbocyanine iodide) staining and increased ROS generation, and caspase‐3, caspase‐8 activation by extract significantly illustrated the cancer cell death by apoptosis. D. bupleuroides could be a potential source of safe and therapeutically active compounds that can be purified to develop safer, selective, and efficacious anticancer agents with fewer side effects.

Comparative Metabolic Profiling and Biological Evaluation of Essential Oils from Conocarpus Species: Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Potential

Essential oils (EOs) are a diverse source of bioactive compounds with remarkable therapeutic potential. Despite their significance, Conocarpus EOs have been largely underexplored. This study provides a novel comparison of the metabolic profiles and biological activities of EOs from C. lancifolius, C. erectus green, and C. erectus silver leaves cultivated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), offering unique insights into their distinct bioactive properties and potential therapeutic applications. EOs were extracted via hydro-distillation, analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and subjected to chemometric analysis. Their antioxidant (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) assays), antidiabetic (α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition and antimicrobial activities were assessed. A total of 92 metabolites were identified, with heptacosane and nonacosane as key species discriminants. C. lancifolius EO showed the strongest α-amylase (IC50 8.75 ± 0.54 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC50 22.31 ± 0.92 µg/mL) inhibitory activities, while C. erectus silver demonstrated superior antioxidant capacity (IC50 349.78 ± 8.26 µg/mL, DPPH assay). C. lancifolius EO exhibited the best antimicrobial activity, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC 625 µg/mL). C. erectus silver EO inhibited E. coli and C. albicans (MIC 625 µg/mL). In contrast, C. erectus EOs showed no activity against Aspergillus niger. These findings highlight the potential of Conocarpus EOs as antioxidants and for managing diabetes that may be utilized either in nutraceuticals, dietary supplements or even in pharmaceutical formulations. Moreover, owing to significant antimicrobial activities, the EOs may be added to medical disinfectants and several pharmaceutical products. However, further, in vivo validation and pharmaceutical exploration is still needed.

Macrophage Membrane-Camouflaged Nanozymes for Combating the Oxidative Stress-Microvascular Perfusion Negative Feedback in Ischemia-Reperfusion Induced Acute Kidney Injury.

Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI), driving necrosis of proximal tubule cells, inflammation, and capillary rarefaction. Inadequate perfusion resulting from capillary rarefaction can, in turn, induce chronic tissue hypoxia and exacerbate ischemic acute tubular necrosis, leading to an "oxidative stress-microvascular perfusion" negative feedback that further aggravate kidney damage. In this study, a macrophage membrane-camouflaged manganese-based antioxidant nanozyme (MB@LM) is developed for targeted delivery and oxidative stress relief in AKI therapy. By inheriting macrophage surface proteins, MB@LM selectively targets damaged renal tissues that overexpress adhesion molecules like intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), facilitating enhanced accumulation at the injury site. The manganese-based nanozyme core provides antioxidant enzyme-mimicking activities, effectively reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting apoptosis. In IRI-induced AKI mouse model, MB@LM treatment significantly reduces renal damage, restores renal microvascular perfusion as assessed by ultrasound imaging, and alleviated inflammation, demonstrating remarkable therapeutic efficacy. Overall, MB@LM represents a promising targeted therapy for AKI, offering precise delivery, potent antioxidant protection, and anti-inflammatory effects to support renal recovery and improve outcomes for AKI.

Phytochemical Profiles, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity of Knautia integrifolia (L.) Bertol. subsp. integrifolia

The genus Knautia (L.) (Caprifoliaceae) is widely distributed in the Mediterranean region and is represented by 11 species of flora in Turkey. This study conducted a detailed phytochemical investigation of the methanol extract of the whole plant of K. integrifolia using a combination of LC-ESI-FT-MS and NMR analyses. According to the results of this analysis, 25 compounds were identified in the methanol extract of K. integrifolia. The extract is particularly rich in phenolic secondary metabolites, including phenolic acid derivatives, flavonoid glycosides, and flavones, along with the presence of triterpenoid compounds. Additionally, the total phenolic content of the K. integrifolia methanol extract was evaluated. Considering the pharmacological activities reported for Knautia species, the antioxidant potential of the methanol extract was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, resulting in a value of 77.5% when compared to the ascorbic acid standard. In this study, antimicrobial activity tests were performed on K. integrifolia methanol extract for the first time. The results indicated that the extract demonstrated greater susceptibility to Staphylococcus epidermidis compared to the control group. At the same time, Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited a minimum inhibitory concentration value, indicating high sensitivity to the methanol extract.

Astaxanthin Prevents Glucocorticoid-Induced Femoral Head Osteonecrosis by Targeting Ferroptosis through the JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway.

Glucocorticoid (GC) is extensively used in clinical practice, and the osteonecrosis of the femoral head caused by them is a common issue in orthopedic surgery, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Astaxanthin (AST), a potent natural antioxidant, has an unexplored impact on GC-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (GIONFH). This study explores the effects and mechanisms of AST in counteracting dexamethasone (Dex)-induced ferroptosis and GIONFH. We developed a rat model of GIONFH using intraperitoneal Dex injections and conducted in vitro analysis by culturing osteoblasts (OBs) with Dex treatment. We assessed the impact of AST on Dex-treated OBs using C11-BODIPY and FerroOrange staining, mitochondrial functionality tests, and protein expression analyses through Western blot and immunofluorescence. The influence of AST on bone microarchitecture of femoral head in rat was assessed using micro-CT, hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry at imaging and histological levels. Our findings suggest that AST exerts an inhibitory effect on Dex-induced ferroptosis and GIONFH. In vitro, AST treatment increased glutathione and decreased malondialdehyde, lipid peroxidation, and mitochondrial-reactive oxygen species. Additionally, AST treatment also enhances the phosphorylation of STAT3, upregulates glutathione peroxidase 4 and osteogenic-related proteins, and stimulates bone formation. To delve deeper into the mechanism, the findings revealed that AST triggered activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling. Moreover, the use of siRNA-STAT3 blocked the beneficial effect of AST in OBs cultivated with Dex. In brief, AST combats GIONFH by activating the JAK2/STAT3 pathway to inhibit ferroptosis.

Traditionally Used Edible Flowers as a Source of Neuroactive, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Extracts and Bioactive Compounds: A Narrative Review

Edible flowers are becoming a popular addition to diets. As science has progressed, it has been proven that in addition to their aesthetic value, they possess pharmacological effects and health-promoting properties. Several edible flowers are used in medicine, and the available literature data indicate their broad biological activity. This review focuses on pharmacological knowledge about the neuroactive, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory potential of 15 traditionally used edible flowers. It also describes their traditionally uses and summarizes research findings on their chemical composition.

Trace Element Chromium-D-Phenylalanine Complex: Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Insights from In Vivo and In Silico Studies.

The biological significance of trace elements such as chromium extends beyond basic cellular functions, influencing key processes like inflammation and oxidative stress. In this study, we explore the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of a trace element complex, Chromium-D-phenylalanine (Cr(D-Phe)₃), through in vivo and in silico approaches. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using a carrageenan-induced paw oedema model in rats, coupled with histopathological and biochemical analyses. The antioxidant effects of Cr(D-Phe)₃ were evaluated by measuring reduced glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as a marker of inflammation. Furthermore, molecular docking and dynamics simulations were conducted to elucidate the compound's binding affinity and stability with cyclooxygenase enzymes. Cr(D-Phe)₃ exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity, with the 40μg/kg dose achieving 34.40% (p < 0.001) oedema inhibition, comparable to diclofenac sodium (42.40%). Treatment with Cr(D-Phe)₃ restored GSH levels (+ 62.10%, p < 0.001), reduced LPO (24.72%, p < 0.001), and lowered TNF-α (31.73%, p < 0.001) in carrageenan injected rats, demonstrating potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Molecular docking revealed strong binding affinities between Cr(D-Phe)₃ and COX enzymes, suggesting its potential mechanism of action in modulating inflammatory pathways. This study highlights the potential of Cr(D-Phe)₃ as a chromium-based trace element complex with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These findings warrant further preclinical investigations to elucidate its full pharmacological potential and applications in managing inflammatory conditions.

Influence of environmental factors on phytochemical compositions and antioxidant activity of Juniperus communis L

The present study focuses on the phytochemical content of Juniperus communis L. collected from different altitudinal locations in Uttarakhand, India. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report which analyses the secondary metabolite contents, antioxidant potential, chlorophyll and carotenoid content of J. communis needles and their correlation with the environmental factors. The results showed variation in phytochemical content from different locations, with the highest total phenolic content of 42.80 ± 1.398 mg GAE/g DW estimated from JC3 (3891 m), flavonoid content of 2.47 ± 0.120 mg QE/g DW from JC4 (4065 m), and tannin content of 8.21 ± 1.445 mg TAE/g DW from JC4. The highest antioxidant activity determined by DPPH and ABTS assays were calculated as 36.97 ± 0.030 μg/mL and 518.78 ± 0.123 μg/mL in JC4 respectively while FRAP assay revealed highest antioxidative capacity of samples from JC2 (3507 m). The GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of around 35 compounds with communic acid, beta-Elemene, oplopanone, mome inositol, and spathulenol as the major compounds. In conclusion, elevation significantly influences the extraction yield, chlorophyll content, total polyphenol content, antioxidant activity, and chemical composition of the extracts.Soil properties, such as pH, moisture content, and nutrient availability, also played a role in these variations. Therefore, the findings suggest that environmental factors can significantly impact the bioactive potential of J. communis and highlight the importance of considering these factors in future research and applications.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Potential of Tocotrienols: An Update.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) poses a significant threat to visual health among the elderly, necessitating urgent preventive measures as the global population ages. Extensive research has implicated oxidative stress (OS)-induced retinal damage as a primary contributor to AMD pathogenesis, prompting investigations into potential therapeutic interventions. Among the various nutrients studied for their potential in AMD risk reduction, antioxidants have shown promise, with initial findings from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study suggesting a correlation between antioxidant supplementation and decreased AMD progression. This article explores the scientific foundation supporting the therapeutic efficacy of tocotrienol-rich fraction (TRF) as a viable candidate for slowing AMD progression, based on interventional studies. AMD is characterized by OS, inflammation, dysregulated lipid metabolism, and angiogenesis, all of which TRF purportedly addresses through its potent anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, antiangiogenic, and antioxidant properties. The review underscores TRF's promising attributes, aiming to deepen understanding of AMD pathogenesis and advocate for TRF-based pharmacological interventions to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Given the pressing need for effective AMD treatments, TRF represents a promising avenue for intervention, offering hope for improved vision outcomes and enhanced quality of life for individuals affected by this debilitating condition.

In Vitro Biological Evaluation and In Vivo Anti-inflammatory Effect of Chicozapote (Manilkara zapota (L.) P. Royen) Leaf Extracts in Mice with Internal Atrial Edema

Background In Mexico, the fruit of the Manilkara zapota (L.) P. Royen (Chicozapote) tree is widely consumed; however, numerous studies have identified bioactive compounds within its leaves. Purpose To evaluate the bioactive properties of M. zapota leaf extracts, focusing on their anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-hypertensive potentials, and assessing their efficacy in mitigating inflammation. Materials and Methods This study evaluated the anti-oxidant properties of aqueous (AE), ethanolic (EE), and hydroalcoholic (HE) extracts, utilizing 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays. Anti-diabetic activity was assessed by inhibiting the enzymes α-amylase and α-glucosidase, while anti-hypertensive efficacy was measured via angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition. The anti-inflammatory potential was also examined in vivo using a murine model of 12- O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced ear edema. Results The DPPH assay revealed that all extracts exhibited equivalent anti-oxidant capacities at the same concentration, with no significant statistical difference ( p &lt; 0.05). Conversely, the ABTS assay demonstrated that AE possessed superior activity (4.6−28.5%) across varying concentrations. EE exhibited the most potent inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and ACE, with 81.8%, 58.9%, and 87.8%, respectively. In anti-inflammatory assays, EE at a 5 mg dosage significantly outperformed other extracts. Conclusion These findings suggest that M. zapota leaf extracts, mainly through EE, could offer a viable natural alternative for reducing inflammation and potentially managing diabetes and hypertension.

Agro-Residues and Sucrose Alternatives in Confectionery Transformation Towards Glucose Spikes Minimization

Apple and beetroot pomace flour (APF and BPF), along with two sweeteners, sucrose and a blend of sucrose substitutes (erythritol, stevia, inulin, and fructose), were simultaneously incorporated into three matrices formulated with agar, pectin, or gelatin as gelling agents. The aim was to produce jelly candies with high content of dietary fiber and dietary phenolics, and reduced energy value. The simultaneous incorporation of sucrose substitutes and pomace flour resulted in decrease of Carb:Fiber and Sugar:Fiber Ratio to extremely low values of 2.7–3.4 and 1.3–1.6 respectively, as well as in Energy:Fiber Ratio decrease to 9.2–12.3 kcal/g DF. Relative Antioxidant Capacity Index (RACI), as indicator of antioxidant potential, was calculated by assigning equal weight to Folin–Ciocâlteu, DPPH and FRAP assays applied upon in vitro digestion of 18 formulations of jelly candies. Results obtained for formulations with and without sucrose, as well as with and without APF or BPF, enabled insight into effects of pomace flour addition and sucrose substitution in each gelling matrix on functional properties. The incorporation and the substitution impact on postprandial glucose response were followed in vivo. Their superimposing resulted in glycemic index below 30 and low glycemic load. Efficiency of applied approach in functionalization of confectionery burden with energy and minimization of glucose spike represent an example of agro-residues re-introduction with the highest potential contribution to anti-obesity strategy.

Investigation of photophysical properties and potential biological applications of substituted tris(polypyridyl)ruthenium(II) complexes

The photophysical properties of tris(polypyridyl)ruthenium(II) complex [Ru(dmbpy)3]2+ [dmbpy = 4,4′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine] were investigated and compared with [Ru(bpy)3]2+ following both experimental and computational approaches. The variations in the electronic properties of the complex in the ground and excited states were determined by density functional theory (DFT) methods, and their effects on the anticancer, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities were also evaluated by molecular docking and dynamic simulation studies. The potential of these complexes to serve as bioanalytes was investigated by their ability to bind with quinones, the well-known electron mediators in numerous light-driven reactions. Following the above, the anticancer properties were evaluated against breast cancer-related proteins. The results revealed that the complex possesses comparable anticancer and antioxidant potential to that of [Ru(bpy)3]2+. The physical, electronic, and biological properties of this complex depend on the nature of the ligands and the medium of investigation. Herein, the potential applications of [Ru(bpy)3]2+ in clinical diagnostics as antioxidants and therapeutic agents were evaluated.

Exploring Myrsine umbellata: a comprehensive analysis of phytochemicals, antioxidant potential, antityrosinase effect, and cytotoxic activities across distinct plant parts

ABSTRACT Myrsine umbellata, a native Brazilian tree, was investigated for its chemical composition and bioactivity. A total of 44 compounds were identified, including resorcinol derivatives, sesquiterpenes, and embelin. The ethyl acetate leaf fraction exhibited the highest phenolic and flavonoid content, with superior antioxidant activity (IC50 = 8.87–17.33 µg mL-¹) compared to Ginkgo biloba. Specific fractions (MSA, MSH, MSC) showed selective cytotoxicity against melanoma cells (IC50 = 9.51–24.95 µg mL-¹), sparing normal cells. Quercitrin and embelin exhibited low toxicity. These findings suggest M. umbellata as a promising source of natural antioxidants, antimelanogenic agents, and potential chemotherapeutics for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications.

Comprehensive In Silico Analysis of Uncaria Tomentosa Extract: Chemical Profiling, Antioxidant Assessment, and CLASP Protein Interaction for Drug Design in Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Uncaria tomentosa is a traditional medicinal herb renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-enhancing properties. In the realm of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDS), CLASP proteins, responsible for regulating microtubule dynamics in neurons, have emerged as critical players. Dysregulation of CLASP proteins is associated with NDDS, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases. Consequently, comprehending the role of CLASP proteins in NDDS holds promise for the development of innovative therapeutic interventions. The objectives of the research were to identify phytoconstituents in the hydroalcoholic extract of Uncaria tomentosa (HEUT), to evaluate its antioxidant potential through in vitro free radical scavenging assays and to explore its potential interaction with CLASP using in silico molecular docking studies. HPLC and LC-MS techniques were used to identify and quantify phytochemicals in HEUT. The antioxidant potential was assessed through DPPH, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide (SO) free radical scavenging methods. Interactions between conventional quinovic acid, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, corynoxeine, rhynchophylline and syringic acid and CLASP were studied through in silico molecular docking using Auto Dock 4.2. The HEUT extract demonstrated the highest concentration of quinovic acid derivatives. HEUT exhibited strong free radical-scavenging activity with IC50 values of 0.113 μg/ml (DPPH) and 9.51 μM (FRAP). It also suppressed NO production by 47.1 ± 0.37% at 40 μg/ml and inhibited 77.3 ± 0.69% of SO generation. Additionally, molecular docking revealed the potential interaction of quinovic acid with CLASP for NDDS. The strong antioxidant potential of HEUT and the interaction of quinovic acid with CLASP protein suggest a promising role in treating NDDS linked to CLASP protein dysregulation.

The Effect of the Use of Unconventional Solutions for Osmotic Dehydration on Selected Properties of Fresh-Cut Oranges

This study investigated the effects of unconventional solutions on the osmotic dehydration of oranges. These solutions included xylitol, fruit concentrates (strawberry, cherry, orange), rosehip juice, and sucrose. The study examined dehydration kinetics, dry matter, total soluble solids, water activity, color, texture, sugars, vitamin C, polyphenols, carotenoids, and antioxidant potential, alongside microstructural observations. The results indicated that osmotic solutions and the dehydration time (3 h) significantly influenced the oranges’ physical and chemical properties. Cherry and strawberry concentrate solutions caused the greatest color changes, enhancing the dried product’s visual appeal. Oranges dehydrated with strawberry concentrate exhibited the highest polyphenol content (2909 mg chlorogenic acid/100 g d.m.) and antioxidant potential (11.0 mg TE/d.m.), while rosehip solution yielded the highest vitamin C levels (80.27 g/100 g d.m.), followed by strawberry (62.32 g/100 g d.m.) and orange (47.67 g/100 g d.m.) concentrates. These findings highlight the benefits of using fruit concentrates and juices in osmotic dehydration. The unconventional osmotic solutions resulted in a reduction in the hardness of dehydrated orange sliced from 0.65 N to the range of 0.36–0.60 N, except for strawberry concentrate, which resulted in the highest value (0.72 N). Key parameters, such as the water activity, dry matter, and dehydration efficiency, were more favorable compared to those in the sucrose solution samples. The organoleptic assessment recommended xylitol for maintaining sweetness without altering taste or smell, whereas strawberry juice scored lowest due to its foreign taste and smell. Overall, osmotic dehydration enhanced the nutritional and sensory attributes of oranges by allowing the penetration of bioactive compounds, making them superior to fresh raw material in tested parameters.

Distinct roles of ascorbic acid in extracellular vesicles and free form: Implications for metabolism and oxidative stress in presymptomatic Huntington's disease.

Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a CAG trinucleotide repeat expansion in the first exon of the huntingtin gene. The huntingtin protein (Htt) is ubiquitously expressed and localized in several organelles, including endosomes, where it plays an essential role in intracellular trafficking. Presymptomatic HD is associated with a failure in energy metabolism and oxidative stress. Ascorbic acid is a potent antioxidant that plays a key role in modulating neuronal metabolism and is highly concentrated in the brain. During synaptic activity, neurons take up ascorbic acid released by glial cells; however, this process is disrupted in HD. In this study, we aim to elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying this dysfunction. Using an electrophysiological approach in presymptomatic YAC128 HD slices, we observed decreased ascorbic acid flux from astrocytes to neurons, which altered neuronal metabolic substrate preferences. Ascorbic acid efflux and recycling were also decreased in cultured astrocytes from YAC128 HD mice. We confirmed our findings using GFAP-HD160Q, an HD mice model expressing mutant N-terminal Htt mainly in astrocytes. For the first time, we demonstrated that ascorbic acid is released from astrocytes via extracellular vesicles (EVs). Decreased number of particles and exosomal markers were observed in EV fractions from cultured YAC128 HD astrocytes and Htt-KD cells. We observed reduced number of multivesicular bodies (MVBs) in YAC128 HD striatum via electron microscopy, suggesting mutant Htt alters MVB biogenesis. EVs containing ascorbic acid effectively reduced reactive oxygen species, whereas "free" ascorbic acid played a role in modulating neuronal metabolic substrate preferences. These findings suggest that the early redox imbalance observed in HD arises from a reduced release of ascorbic acid-containing EVs by astrocytes. Meanwhile, a decrease in "free" ascorbic acid likely contributes to presymptomatic metabolic impairment.

Novel bioactive peptides alleviate Western diet-induced MAFLD in C57BL/6J mice by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis via TLR4/NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways.

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has emerged as a leading chronic liver disease. This condition is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat within liver and can progress from simple steatosis to more severe stages involving chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. In this study, we investigated the potential therapeutic effects and underlying mechanism of novel bioactive peptides (EWYF and EWFY) on Western diet-induced MAFLD in C57BL/6J mice. Mice fed a normal chow diet (ND group) and Western diet (WD and treatment groups) for 8weeks. Treatment groups received EWYF and EWFY peptides in low (10mg/kg/day) and high (50mg/kg/day) doses were divided into four groups: EWYF10, EWYF50, EWFY10, and EWFY50. Western diet-induced body weight gain and increased liver weight along with visceral adiposity, which were markedly reversed by bioactive peptides in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, bioactive peptides significantly reduced hepatic steatosis, liver injury and proinflammatory response. Western diet-induced glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, whereas bioactive peptides significantly improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. Persistent intake of Western diet triggered chronic inflammation and severe oxidative stress, which were significantly alleviated by bioactive peptides treatment via inhibiting NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation and mitigated pyroptosis by modulating TLR4/NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathways. Furthermore, molecular docking studies suggest that EWYF and EWFY act as fructokinase antagonists and TLR4 inhibitors, which potentially alleviates Western diet-induced MAFLD. Collectively, these findings highlight EWYF and EWFY as promising candidates for MAFLD treatment due to their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties via specific molecular inhibition.

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG): Pharmacological Properties, Biological Activities and Therapeutic Potential

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the predominant catechin in green tea, comprises approximately 50% of its total polyphenol content and has garnered widespread recognition for its significant therapeutic potential. As the principal bioactive component of Camellia sinensis, EGCG is celebrated for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and antitumor properties. The bioavailability and metabolism of EGCG within the gut microbiota underscore its systemic effects, as it is absorbed in the intestine, metabolized into bioactive compounds, and transported to target organs. This compound has been shown to influence key physiological pathways, particularly those related to lipid metabolism and inflammation, offering protective effects against a variety of diseases. EGCG’s ability to modulate cell signaling pathways associated with oxidative stress, apoptosis, and immune regulation highlights its multifaceted role in health promotion. Emerging evidence underscores EGCG’s therapeutic potential in preventing and managing a range of chronic conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic syndromes. Given the growing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases and the increasing interest in natural compounds, EGCG presents a promising avenue for novel therapeutic strategies. This review aims to summarize current knowledge on EGCG, emphasizing its critical role as a versatile natural bioactive agent with diverse clinical applications. Further exploration in both experimental and clinical settings is essential to fully unlock its therapeutic potential.

Alleviation effect of taxifolin on diquat-induced damage to porcine intestinal epithelial cells.

Oxidative stress is considered to be a major cause of numerous intestinal diseases, and taxifolin (TA) possesses a variety of pharmacological properties that promote health and prevent disease. This study intends to determine the ability of TA to alleviate oxidative stress induced by diquat (DIQ) in porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2 cells). After being pretreated with 150μMTA for 24h, IPEC-J2 cells were treated with 0.5mM DIQ for 6h to cause oxidative stress. The results demonstrated that TA pretreatment increased cell viability and proliferation, significantly inhibited the DIQ-induced reductions in cell proliferation and cell viability, and ameliorated the intestinal barrier by up-regulating the expression levels of Claudin1 and Occludin. Furthermore, TA pretreatment weakened the DIQ-induced inflammatory response through reducing the gene expression of proinflammatory factors (IL-6 and IL-8) and increasing the antioxidant gene expression level, possibly through activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that TA is a potent antioxidant that attenuates cytotoxicity and inflammation, protects cellular barrier integrity, and improves antioxidant function in DIQ-stimulated IPEC-J2 cells. This research explores the role of TA in mitigating intestinal oxidative stress damage and its potential as an eco-friendly feed additive in pig farming.