Radical Scavenging Activity Research Articles

Synergistic Action of Rutin-Coated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Targeting Biofilm Formation Receptors of Dental Pathogens and Modulating Apoptosis Genes for Enhanced Oral Anticancer Activity.

Oral diseases are often associated with bacterial and fungal pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans. This research explored a novel approach to addressing these pathogens by synthesizing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) coated with rutin (RT), a plant-derived compound. The synthesized ZnO-RT NPs were comprehensively characterized using UV-Vis spectrophotometer, SEM, and EDAX techniques to confirm their structural composition. The antioxidant potential was assessed through free radical scavenging assays. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of ZnO-RT NPs was evaluated using a zone of inhibition assay against oral pathogens. Molecular docking studies with the Autodock tool were performed to elucidate the interactions between RT and the receptors of oral pathogens. The findings demonstrated that ZnO-RT NPs exhibited robust free radical scavenging activity. Furthermore, they showed significant antimicrobial activity with a minimal inhibitory concentration of 40 μg/mL against oral pathogens. ZnO-RT NPs also displayed dose-dependent anticancer effects on human oral cancer cells at concentrations of 10, 20, 40, and 80 μg/mL. Mechanistic insights into the anticancer activity on KB cells revealed the upregulation of apoptotic genes. This study underscores the promising potential of ZnO-RT NPs for dental applications due to their strong antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties. These nanoparticles offer a hopeful prospect for addressing oral pathogen challenges and enhancing overall oral health.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Curcuma Longa Extracts and Fractions on Skin Inflammation

Addresses the impact of modern society’s rapid industrialization and environmental pollution, leading to increased oxidative stress and immune system disorders. Skin barrier issues have resulted in a rise in inflammatory skin conditions, sparking heightened interest in functional cosmetics to address these concerns and combat aging. The research focused on exploring natural ingredients, particularly specific fractions of <i>Curcuma Longa</i> extracts, known for their antioxidant properties. The results of this study are summarized as follows. In the first stage experiment, DPPH radical scavenging activity and ABTS radical scavenging activity were investigated, and fractions exhibiting higher scavenging activity than extracts were sought. In the 2nd-step experiment, the cell survival rate was examined to determine the concentration that would not affect cytotoxicity. To demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory effects on RAW 264.7 cells, inflammation reactions were induced by LPS and the production of Nitric Oxide (NO) was controlled. As a result, <i>Curcuma Longa</i> extracts and fractions all proved excellent control effects on NO production. In HaCaT cells, skin inflammation was induced with TNF-α/IFN-γ and the control of interleukin (IL)-6 production was measured. As a result, <i>Curcuma Longa</i> extracts and fractions proved to facilitate the immune reaction and control the reaction that would lead to inflammation. In the following 3rd-step experiment, the control of Chemokine’s major factors IL-8, RANTES, and TARC was measured. As a result, it was verified that certain fractions of <i>Curcuma Longa</i> of extract showed excellent Chemokine production control effects and thus that these specific fractions are effective on various inflammatory skin diseases. ICAM-1 expressions were observed to control the initial stage of inflammation in a way of cellular adhesion regulation, and the MAPK path which is important to regulate inflammatory reactions in the signaling system was measured. As a result, the inhibition of phosphorylation, which is important for initial inflammation inhibition and inflammatory reaction control, was verified. Based on the above-stated findings, active ingredients containing certain fractions were analyzed, and color reactions in specific fractions were induced from active ingredient spots of extract. In consideration of future material development and production, the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of active ingredients of certain fractions were examined with the HPLC, and it was verified that certain fractions contained more active ingredients than extracts. In conclusion, certain fractions of natural elements proved the great potentials as a cosmetics ingredient. Therefore, these fractions proved excellent anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in certain fractions, and the efficiency is quite high with only a small quantity of them. It is expected that these fractions are widely utilized as a cosmetic element, and the future study will examine natural cosmetic elements from these fractions with the aim to contribute to the functional cosmetics industry and anti-aging product market.

Investigation of Phytochemical Composition, Radical Scavenging Potential, Anti-Obesogenic Effects, and Anti-Diabetic Activities of Kaempferia parviflora Rhizomes.

Kaempferia parviflora or commonly known as "Kunyit hitam" by locals, is an edible plant, native to tropical regions, has been extensively utilized for culinary and medicinal applications. The present study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition and biological activities of the rhizomes of K. parviflora. The ethanol crude and fractionated extracts (hexane and chloroform) of the rhizomes were evaluated for their total phenolic content, total steroidal content, as well as antioxidant, anti-obesogenic, and anti-diabetic activities. The chloroform extract demonstrated the highest concentration of plant sterols (432±0.23 mg BSE/g extract) and a substantial amount of phenolic compounds (1.19×103±0.41 mg GAE/g extract). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis revealed that the chloroform extract of the rhizomes is predominantly composed of bioactive flavonoids including tectochrysin (1), 5,7-dimethoxyflavone (2), 3,5,7-trimethoxyflavone (3), 3,4',5,7-tetramethoxyflavone (4), and 4',5,7-trimethoxyflavone (5). Furthermore, the chloroform extract exhibited the highest overall radical scavenging and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, which can be attributed to the presence of compounds 1-5 in the extract. Collectively, these findings suggest that the chloroform extract of the rhizomes of K. parviflora is a potentially valuable source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-obesogenic, and anti-diabetic properties, with potential application in therapeutics and functional foods.

Encapsulation of Microalgae Tisochrysis lutea Extract in Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLCs) and Evaluation of Their Sunscreen, Wound Healing, and Skin Hydration Properties

Traditional sunscreens have relied on synthetic compounds to protect against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, there is increasing interest in utilizing the natural photoprotective properties of microalgae extracts. This approach does not only aim to enhance the stability and efficacy of sun protection formulae but also seeks to reduce the reliance on synthetic sunscreens. This study investigates the encapsulation of Tisochrysis lutea extract (TL) in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) to create a combination (NLC-TL) with enhanced physicochemical stability, antioxidant activity, SPF efficacy, wound healing capacity, and skin hydration. The particle size and ζ-potential were approximately 100 nm and −50 mV, respectively, and both formulations successfully passed the stability tests. The antioxidant activity, measured via DPPH assay, revealed that NLC-TL achieved the highest free radical scavenging activity across all tested concentrations, indicating a synergistic effect. The incorporation of TL in NLCs maintained the sun protection factor (SPF) of a 2% extract solution (1.53 ± 0.13). The wound healing assay indicated that NLC-TLs significantly enhanced wound closure compared to controls and TL alone. Additionally, skin hydration tests on healthy volunteers revealed that NLC-TLs provided superior and sustained hydration effects. These results highlight NLC-TLs’ potential as a multifunctional topical agent for cosmetic and therapeutic applications.

Phytochemical characterization and valorization of Quercus ilex (west of Algeria)

<p><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;"><strong>ABSTRACT</strong></span></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;" lang="EN-US">This project is part of the promotion of natural resources such as Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP). In order to assess the economic value of NTFP, this research focuses on the phytochemical analysis of holm oak (</span><em><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;" lang="EN-US">Quercus ilex </span></em><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;" lang="EN-US">L.) from the Terni region (Western Algeria). It focused on bioactive substances, particularly polyphenols. The method used consists of extracting the phenolic compounds by two methods which are maceration and ultrasound from the leaves and bark of this species. The quantity of these compounds is assessed spectrometrically and the antioxidant activity of the extracts in vitro using free radical scavenging and total antioxidant capacity assays. The results obtained indicate that maceration offers the best yield for extracting phenolic compounds from the leaves, with a yield of 10.74%. These results also showed that the extracts of holm oak leaves and bark are rich in phenolic compounds and have a content of total phenols (103,014±1,393 and 813.462±1.675 mg EAG/g DM), flavonoids (87.078±6.220 and 949.936±36.394 mg EC/g DM) and condensed tannins (57.194±12.447 and 940.195±20.417 mg EC/g DM). Regarding the antioxidant power, it is evident that all extracts have significant antioxidant capacity, and all have high free radical scavenging activity. The highest inhibition percents are 84.98±7.45% for the leaf extract and 83.15±9.27% for the bark extract. According to these results, holm oak contains a large quantity of polyphenols and antioxidant molecules. This information represents a natural source of antioxidants which remains to be exploited for future use in the agri-food and health sectors, within the broader framework of promoting the biodiversity of Algerian plants (NTFP).</span></p>

Evolution of antioxidant potential during fruit maturation Pancovia laurentii (De Wild.) Gilg ex De (Sapindaceae)

Pancovia laurentii (De Wild.) Gilg ex De (Sapindaceae) is a plant species of the spontaneous flora of Central Africa, which grows easily in the Republic of Congo. It produces very succulent edible fruits. The evaluation of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in the pulp and seed of the fruit during its maturation was done by spectrophotometer. The results reveal the increase of total polyphenols, total flavonoids and anthocyanins in the pulp and seed of the fruit during maturation. Flavonoids accumulate more in the seed than in the pulp. At taste maturity, the seed with 400.85 mg EQ/DM is richer in flavonoids than the pulp which has 322.26 mg EQ/DM. Polyphenols and anthocyanins accumulate more in the pulp than in the seed with respectively 432.8 mg EAG/mg DM for polyphenols and 157.50 mg/mL for anthocyanins. The pulp and seed presented a DPPH radical scavenging activity. The antioxidant activity increases during maturation. It is greater than 50%, particularly in the pulp with 0.25 mg/mL and in the seed with 0.37 μg/mL at taste maturity. These results show the existence of a good linear correlation between the content of total polyphenols, total flavonoids, anthocyanins and the antioxidant power of the pulp and seed of the fruit during maturation. With these contents, the fruit can be considered as a potential source of natural antioxidants.

Fish oil-containing edible films with active film incorporated with extract of Psidium guajava leaves: preparation and characterization of double-layered edible film

The utilization of zein and gum arabic has grown in an attempt to formulate wall materials based on protein–polysaccharide complexes. This mixture provides a versatile delivery system for hydrophilic (guava leaf extract, GLE) or lipophilic (fish oil, FO) bioactive compounds, and it can be used as an edible film-forming polymer. This study was undertaken to characterize FO-containing edible films that were double-layered with a film containing GLE. Modified zein and gum arabic solutions (MG complex) were mixed at a ratio of 1:1.5 (v/v), adjusted to pH 5, added with glycerol (20% of the complex) and FO (5% of the complex), and finally adjusted to pH 5. This was prepared as the bottom/lower layer. The upper/active layer was prepared by mixing MG complex, glycerol, and GLE (1, 3, and 5% w/v of the complex). The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in GLE were 15.81 mg GAE/g extract and 6.99 mg QE/g extract, respectively. The IC50 of the DPPH radical scavenging activity of GLE was 26.86 ppm with antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli of 9.83 and 12.55 mm. The total plate counts of double-layered films containing GLE were retained below 3 log CFU/g during 28-day storage. The peroxide values of these films were dimmed for no more than 9.08 meq/kg sample on day 28 of storage. Thickness (872.00-971.67 μm), water vapor transmission rate (12.99-17.04 g/m2/day), tensile strength (1.56-2.02 kPa), elongation at break (61.53-75.41%), glass transition (52.74-57.50°C), melting peak (131.59-142.35°C), inhibition against B. subtilis (33.67-40.58 mm), and inhibition against E. coli (2.05-9.04 mm) were obtained by double-layered films. GLE can be successfully incorporated into the active layer of a double-layer film to improve its characteristics while significantly slowing down the microbial contamination and oxidation rate. MG complex and FO can also contribute to the performance of the edible film.

Extraction and In Vitro and In Vivo Antioxidant Activity Evaluation of Polyphenols from Lychee Pericarp

Background Finding a new promising plant antioxidant to combat or prevent cardiovascular disease remains a major challenge for researchers. Lychee pericarp, which includes a variety of polyphenols, is a prospective source of botanical antioxidants. Purpose In response to this issue, we assessed the effect of lychee bark extract on oxygen radical scavenging capacity and separate vascular protective ability in vivo. Methods In the current study, the lychee pericarp enrichment product (RLP) was obtained by optimizing an extraction method and separated using modern separation methods. The structure of the isolated compounds was assessed using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry, and the content of polyphenols obtained from the extract was quantified using the area normalization method. In addition, the capacity of RLP to scavenge oxygen radicals in vitro was assessed using the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and T-AOC (total antioxidant capacity) techniques. Furthermore, an isoprenaline hydrochloride (ISO)-induced rat model of acute myocardial ischemia was established, and four biochemical indicators were used to assess the effect of lychee bark extract on oxygen radical scavenging capacity and cardiovascular protective ability in vivo. Results RLP extraction produced 11 chemicals, 6 of which were structurally assessed. Quantitative analysis revealed that epicatechin, PC-C(epicatechin-(4β↓8,2β↓O↓7)-epicatechin-(4β↓8)-epicatechin), type A proanthocyanidin trimer, proanthocyanidin A2, and type B proanthocyanidin dimer were the most abundant polyphenols. The in vitro DPPH and T-AOC findings revealed that RLP exhibited strong free radical scavenging activity, approximately 1.5-fold that of vitamin C. The four biochemical indicators confirmed the antioxidant activity and cardiovascular protective ability of RLP in vivo. Conclusion RLP has good in vivo and in vitro antioxidant activity, confirming lychee pericarp as a prospective source of botanical antioxidants.

Phenolic Profile of Seedless Ziziphusmauritiana Fruits and Leaves Extracts with In Vivo Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activities: Influence on Pro-Inflammatory Mediators.

The study aimed to assess the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities ofpolyphenol-rich extracts of seedlessvariety of Ziziphus mauritiana(SZM). Reverse Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatographyanalysis of SZM leaves and fruit extracts in ethanol revealed the presence of sixteen phenolics including chlorogenic acid, p-coumeric acid, gallic acid, kaempferol and rutin. Leaf extract showed higher total phenolic and total flavonoid contents (177.6 mg/100 g and 46.2 mg/100 g) than in fruit extract (137.8 mg/100 g and 14.1 mg/100 g). The leaf extract exhibited higher DPPH radical-scavenging activity (63.5%) than the fruit extract (58.2%). The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated on carrageenan-induced rat model and suppression of inflammatory biomarkers (Interleukin-6, Tumor necrosis factor-α and CRP) were studied. The fruit extract exhibited inhibition (98.1%) at the doseof 500 mg/kg body weight (BW), comparable to the indomethacin (98.4%). Both extracts suppressed the inflammatory biomarkers, but pronounced results showed by the fruit extract including CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α. The leaf extract demonstrated the higher antioxidant potential as evident from the superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione levels. These findings suggest that SZM leaf and fruit extracts possess potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can play a significant role in mitigating oxidative stress.

Bioinformatics Analysis and Experimental Validation of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate Against Iopromide-induced Injury in HEK-293 Cells via Anti-oxidative and Anti-inflammation Pathways.

The administration of contrast agents can adversely affect kidney function. Nevertheless, the nephrotoxicity of iopromide in human renal cells, potential therapeutic agents, and the underlying molecular mechanisms have not been thoroughly investigated. The proliferation of HEK-293 kidney cells was assessed using the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT) assay. Apoptotic cell death was examined using the TUNEL assay and caspase-3 activity measurements. The impacts and potential pathways of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on iopromide-induced renal damage were analyzed through whole transcriptome sequencing. The redox state was assessed by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. Iopromide-induced inhibition of cell proliferation and apoptosis in HEK-293 cells was counteracted by EGCG co-treatment. Pathway analysis revealed that molecules related to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses, such as ERK1/2, STAT1, and NF-[Formula: see text]B, were pivotal in the action of EGCG. Iopromide-induced ROS production, decreased DPPH scavenging ability, DNA strand breaks, elevated caspase-3 activity, and reduced cell proliferation were all reversed by EGCG co-treatment in HEK-293 cells. The mechanisms likely involve the attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and apoptosis, with regulation through the ERK1/2, STAT1, and NF-[Formula: see text]B pathways. Further research is necessary to confirm the protective effects of EGCG on renal function, particularly against damage induced by contrast agents like iopromide.

Therapeutic Potential of Aryl Sulfonamides: Synthesis, Antiproliferative, Antioxidant, Antiparasitic and Molecular Docking Studies

AbstractThis study outlines the synthesis of pyrazine sulfonamides (3 a–3 i) along with halo‐phenyl derivatives (4 a–4 j and 5 a–5 e). The antiproliferative effects were tested against MCF‐7 breast cancer, and colon carcinoma HT‐29, HCT‐116 WT, and HCT‐116 p53 knock‐out mutant cell lines. Compounds 3 b and 3 c were notably active against HCT‐116 WT cells, while 3 e and 3 h were moderately effective against MCF‐7 cells. Among the halo‐phenyl sulfonamides, 4e and 4j were active against MCF‐7 cells, and 5 b was active against HCT‐116 WT cells. The most promising compounds were evaluated against non‐tumorigenic cells, demonstrating cancer selectivity. Compounds 3 b, 3 c, 3 e, 3 h, and 5 b showed dose‐dependent inhibition of colony formation. Compound 3 f exhibited free radical scavenging activity comparable to ascorbic acid. Molecular docking revealed strong binding to thymidylate synthase (3 b, 5 b), Akt‐3 protein kinase (3 e, 3 h, 4 e, 4 j), and tyrosinase (3 f, 3 h). The compounds also exhibited antiparasitic activity against Toxoplasma gondii and Leishmania major, with modifications enhancing selectivity for T. gondii. Substitutions in compounds 4 b and 4 d increased activity against T. gondii while reducing toxicity. Notably, compound 4 f emerged as a T. gondii‐selective lead drug. These findings suggest sulfonamides may help treat complex diseases like cancer and infections.

In Silico and In Vivo Evaluation of Anti-Arthritic Effects of Bakuchiol from Psoralea corylifolia Seeds in Experimental Rat Model.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease mainly affecting the joints categorized by inflammation, swelling of the synovium and decrease in the joint movement. Bakuchiol, a meroterpene class of natural product present in Psoralea corylifolia known to possess anti-inflammatory effects by a variety of mechanisms. However, its effects in rheumatoid arthritis still remain unclear. In the present investigation, we studied the anti-arthritic effects of bakuchiol via in silico and in vivo experiments. It also showed antioxidant effects measured using DPPH assay where it showed free radical scavenging activity with IC50 value 468.26 μg/ml. Molecular Docking studies carried out on COX-1 (PDB ID: 3 N8Z), COX-2 (PDB ID: 4PH9) and TNF-α (PDB ID: 7JRA), proteins involved in inflammation in arthritis. Bakuchiol showed the maximum binding affinity for TNF-α with binding affinity score is -7.29 kcal/moland less affinity was observed for COX-1 and 2. In vivo antiarthritic effects were studied in arthritic female wistar rats model prepared by intradermal injection of freund's complete adjuvant. Bakuchiol was administered orally at dose of 10,20 and 40 mg/kg for 21 days. Our treatment showed that bakuchiol at 20 and 40 mg/kg exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effects (p<0.001) showed by significant decrease in paw volume, paw diameter, spleen and thymus weight and increase in pain threshold and body weight in arthritic rat model. A significant decrease in hematological parameters such as total leukocyte count (TLC), platelet count, CRP and rheumatoid arthritis factor (RF) and increase in red blood cells count, ESR and hemoglobin further demonstrated that bakuchiol treatment suppresses the progression of adjuvant induced arthritis (AIA) in arthritic rat model. Histological analysis further revealed that bakuchiol ameliorates the pathological manifestations of AIA and reverse the abnormality induced by AIA in rats shown by protection against bone necrosis involved with low influx of inflammatory cells. Therefore, in silico and in vivo results revealed that bakuchiol has the potential to be developed as potent antiarthritic agent.

Multi-functional tyrosinase inhibitors derived from kojic acid and hydroquinone-like diphenols for treatment of hyperpigmentation: Synthesis and in vitro biological evaluation.

A series of multi-functional tyrosinase inhibitors derived from kojic acid (KA) and hydroquinone-like diphenols were designed and synthesized using click chemistry. The in vitro enzymatic assay revealed that all compounds containing a free enolic structure showed excellent activity against tyrosinase (IC50 = 0.14-3.7 µM), being significantly more potent than KA. The most active compounds were catechol (6c) and α-naphthol (6i) analogs with 138- and 96-fold higher potency than KA. On the other hand, all free phenolic compounds (6a-c and 6g-j) derived from aromatic diols showed outstanding free radical scavenging activities superior to KA. Certainly, the α-naphthol derivative 6i with IC50 = 10.1 µM was the most active anti-oxidant, being as potent as quercetin. The SAR analysis indicated that the enolic head of the conjugate molecules mainly contributes to the anti-tyrosinase activity, and the free phenolic part of the molecules can offer anti-oxidant potency. The anti-melanogenic assay of the most promising derivative, 6i, against melanoma (B16F10) cells demonstrated that the prototype compound 6i can significantly reduce the melanin content, more effectively than KA. By using a conjugation strategy, we have improved the tyrosinase inhibitory and radical scavenging activity in the multi-functional agents such as 6i over the parent compound KA, being potentially useful in the treatment of hyperpigmentation and other skin disorders.

Unravelling The Bioactivities of Acmella paniculata Extract-Mediated Green Deep Eutectic Solvent of Citric Acid Monohydrate and Glycerol

Plants are important sources of underlying medicinal value properties. The extraction of bioactive compounds from botanical sources using green solvents has gained interest due to its environmental sustainability. This study highlighted the bioactivities potential of Acmella paniculata extract mediated by green deep eutectic solvent (DES) composed of the citric acid monohydrate and glycerol. Acmella paniculata, a local flowering shrub was selected due to its rich medicinal value compounds. The synergistic effect between plant’s bioactive compounds and DES is capable of enhancing bioactivity, making DES a promising plant solvent extractor candidate. The plant extracts were prepared in leaf and flower parts using the centrifugation method. The phytochemical screening for both extracts showed the presence of terpenoids and steroid constituents which have valuable bioactivity functions. The antibacterial activity assessed by disc diffusion assay exhibited higher susceptible bacterial response of E. coli, Salmonella enterica ser. Typhimurium and S. aureus against the flower extract compared to the leaf extract. The DPPH assay was conducted to assess free radical scavenging activity. The flower extract demonstrated radical scavenging activity (RSA) of 75%-77% while the leaf extract demonstrated 65%-69%. The flower extract results showed higher RSA emphasizing its potential as a natural antioxidant. The anti-inflammatory activity was determined by egg albumin denaturation assay, which showed a greater inhibition rate in flower extract than the leaf extract which was up to 95% and 89% respectively. Thus, both extracts possess an in vitro anti-inflammatory effect. Conclusively, flower extract exhibited better bioactivities value than leaf extract in a green DES. Hence, offering a new insight into its application as an effective alternative in natural product-based therapeutics.

Properties of Antioxidant Film Based on Protein Isolate and Seed Coat Extract from Bambara Groundnut

Bambara groundnut (BG)-based films containing seed coat extract at different concentrations were prepared and characterized. BG seed coat extract (BGSCE) had a total phenolic content of 708.38 mg GAE/g dry extract. BGSCE majorly consisted of quercetin 3-galactoside, rutin, and azaleatin 3-arabinoside. BGSCE exhibited ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activities (ABTS-RSAs and DPPH-RSAs), a ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and an oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of 66.44, 4.98, 4.42, and 0.91 mmol Trolox equivalent/g dry extract, respectively. When BGSCE at various concentrations (0–8%, w/w, protein content) was incorporated into the BG protein isolate (BG-PI)-based films, film containing 4% BGSCE exhibited higher thickness, tensile strength, elongation at break, water vapor and UV-light barrier properties, and a*-value (redness) than the control film (p &lt; 0.05). Films containing BGSCE had greater ABTS-RSA, FRAP, and ORAC than the control film (p &lt; 0.05). An FTIR analysis elucidated that the proteins interacted with phenolic compounds in BGSCE. Nonetheless, less thermal stability was attained in films added with BGSCE. Hence, the addition of BGSCE possessing antioxidant activity exhibited an important role in properties and characteristics of BG-PI-based film. The developed active film could be applied as packaging material possessing antioxidant property for food applications.

Sustainable Synthesis of New Antioxidants from Hydroxytyrosol by Direct Biocatalytic Esterification in Ionic Liquids

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is a nutraceutical compound, mainly found in the fruit, leaves and waste from the olive oil industry, known for exhibiting one of the highest antioxidant activities among molecules of natural origin. To harness this bioactivity in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and the food industry, it is essential to modify the hydrophilicity of HT to enhance its compatibility with lipid-based mixtures. This chemical modification must be carried out with high selectivity to avoid compromising its radical scavenging activity. This work presents a highly efficient and selective approach to perform the biocatalytic esterification of free fatty acids (FFAs) of different alkyl chain lengths with HT in a reaction medium based on the SLIL [C12mim][NTf2]. By using a 1:2 (mol/mol) HT:FFA mixture of substrates, the HT-monoester derivative was obtained up to 77% yield after 2 h at 80 °C. The optimized molar ratio of substrates, combined with the ability to recover the SLIL for further reuse, significantly reduces waste accumulation compared to other reported strategies and results in a more sustainable approach as demonstrated by different green metrics. The antioxidant activity of HT-monoester products was fully maintained with respect to that presented by the natural HT, being stable for at least 3 months at 4 °C, as demonstrated by the DPPH and FRAP antioxidant analysis.

Green-synthesis of silver nanoparticles AgNPs from Podocarpus macrophyllus for targeting GBM and LGG brain cancers via NOTCH2 gene interactions

Brain tumors, particularly Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) and Low-Grade Gliomas (LGG), present significant clinical challenges due to their aggressive nature and resistance to conventional treatments. Traditional therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation are often limited in efficacy, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies. Nanotechnology, particularly the use of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), offers a targeted and potentially more effective approach. This study focuses on the green synthesis of Ag NPs using Podocarpus macrophyllus leaf extract as a reducing agent. The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized for their physicochemical properties, demonstrating a controlled particle size of 13 nm as determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the presence of functional groups, and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy revealed that silver constituted approximately 90% of the nanoparticle composition. The Ag NPs exhibited promising biological activity, including 90% free radical scavenging (antioxidant) activity, 99.15% inhibition of protein denaturation (anti-inflammatory activity), and 90.56% inhibition of alpha-amylase (anti-diabetic activity). Additionally, the nanoparticles displayed significant anti-hemolytic (89.9% inhibition) and antimicrobial activities, with a 20 mm inhibition zone against Staphylococcus species. Computational analyses further indicated that the NOTCH2 gene, which is upregulated in LGG and GBM, may interact with Ag NPs, suggesting their potential in brain cancer therapy. The green synthesis approach offers a sustainable and bioactive method for producing Ag NPs, underscoring their therapeutic promise for treating GBM and LGG.

Effects of fig and pineapple powder on metabolite compounds and health-promoting properties in fermented goat meat sausage.

The objective of this research was to identify the metabolite compounds and health-promoting properties of goat meat fermented sausages containing different amounts of fig and pineapple powder (0.1%, 0.25%, and 0.5%), which are presented by F1, F2, F3 and P1, P2, P3, separately. Fermented sausages were manufactured from the lean meat of female goats. The samples extracted from the goat meat fermented sausages were evaluated for their metabolite compounds, antioxidants, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activity. The results showed that the diphenyl picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity, azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging activity, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activity were the highest in F3 (p<0.05), whereas the hydroxyl radical (°OH) scavenging capacity was the highest in P3 (p<0.05). In addition, F3 and F2 showed the highest superoxide anion radical scavenging activity (p<0.05), whereas F3 and P3 showed the highest copper chelating activity (p<0.05). Based on the metabolite compounds, hydrophobic amino acids, aromatic amino acids, and bitter amino acids were abundant in F3. Both F3 and P3 contained high concentrations of umami-producing compounds. The incorporation of 0.5% fig powder into goat meat fermented sausage showed improved biological activities based on metabolite compounds.

Study on the chemical constituents and anti-free radical activity of mint essential oils in Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam

Mints (Mentha spp.) are famous aromatic and medicinal herbs that are used in traditional and folk medicines around the world for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Mints contain volatile components such as flavonoids, organic acids, and quinones for the digestive system, central nervous system and respiratory system. Therefore, this study aimed to primarily find out the constituents and antioxidant activity of mint essential oil, which are very essential. The mint was harvested from the Ham Thuan Nam district of Binh Thuan province, Vietnam, in 2023. The essential oil of the mint was collected using steam distillation and dried with Na2SO4 for the final product. Chemical analysis of the components of the mint essential oil by GC-MS led to the identification of 17 chemical components, representing 98.72% of the hydro-distilled essential oil. Of these, five were hydrocarbons, such as monoterpenes (32.82%), and the rest were oxygenated hydrocarbons, such as alcohols (53.42%), aldehydes (4.67%), and ketones (7.81%). The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazol free radical scavenging activity of the mint essential oil was 39.36±1.23%, and this value was lower than that of 0.5 mM ascorbic acid (42.84 ±1.18%). Thus, the results of this study have high scientific and practical significance, when adding peppermint essential oil to food, it not only creates a fragrant smell for food, but also has antioxidant and antibacterial effects for food.

Proximate, Mineral, Amino Acid Composition, and Bioactive Properties of Dough Meals Supplemented with African Walnut Flour

This study investigated the impact of African walnut flour supplementation on the nutritional and bioactive properties of dough meals formulated with varying proportions of plantain flour. The proximate composition, mineral content, amino acid profile, color characteristics, antioxidant and anti-diabetic properties were analyzed for five different formulations: 100% plantain flour (P100), 95% plantain flour with 5% African walnut flour (PAW95), 90% plantain flour with 10% African walnut flour (PAW90), 85% plantain flour with 15% African walnut flour (PAW85), and 80% plantain flour with 20% African walnut flour (PAW80). The proximate analysis revealed significant variations, with moisture content ranging from 53.71% to 71.89%, ash content from 0.77% to 1.28%, and protein content from 3.38% to 11.14%. Notably, PAW80 showed the highest protein content. Mineral analysis showed that calcium, potassium, and magnesium levels varied significantly across the samples, with the highest calcium content observed in PAW80 (32.55 mg/kg) and the highest potassium content in PAW95 (47.80 mg/kg). Amino acid analysis indicated that essential amino acids, particularly leucine, valine, and lysine, were present in higher concentrations in the supplemented samples compared to P100. Antioxidant assays indicated that PAW80 had the highest 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (67.22%) and hydroxyl (73.66%) free radical scavenging activities. The in vitro anti-diabetic assays revealed that α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities were enhanced with higher walnut flour supplementation. These findings suggest that African walnut flour can significantly enhance the nutritional quality and bioactive properties of plantain-based dough meals, and thus make it a functional food with potential health benefits.