Plant Sources Research Articles

Harnessing Plant-Based Nanoparticles for Combatting Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria

The emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms poses a significant challenge to public health worldwide. In response, plant-based nanoparticles have garnered attention for their potential as novel antimicrobial agents. These nanoparticles are derived from various plant sources and exhibit inherent antimicrobial properties due to their phytochemical composition. Nanoparticles synthesized from spinach (Spinacia oleracea) and orange (Citrus sinensis) extracts, loaded with salts of Cu and Zn, were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Antimicrobial efficacy was assessed through agar well diffusion assays against clinically relevant multidrug-resistant bacterial strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 74, Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 902, Klebsiella pneumoniae MTCC 661. The nanoparticles exhibited potent antimicrobial effects, significantly inhibiting the growth of tested bacteria even when compared to commercially available antibiotics. These findings highlight the potential of plant-based nanoparticles loaded with Cu and Zn salts as effective agents against multidrug-resistant bacteria, offering a promising avenue for future antimicrobial therapies.

A new application of avocado oil to enrich the biological activities of polycaprolactone membranes for tissue engineering.

The metabolites synthesized by plants to protect themselves serves as natural antimicrobial agents used in biomaterials. In this study, avocado oil (AO), was incorporated as a plant source and natural antimicrobial agent into polycaprolactone (PCL) membranes. The effects of varying AO ratios (25, 50, and 100 wt%.-PCL@25AO, PCL@50AO, PCL@100AO) on PCL membrane morphology, chemical structure, wettability, antimicrobial activity, and cell viabilities were investigated. It was demonstrated that the AO acts as a pore-forming agent in solvent-casted membranes. Young's modulus of the membranes varied between 602.68 and 31.92 MPa and more flexible membranes were obtained with increasing AO content. Inhibition zones of AO were recorded between 7.86 and 13.97 mm against clinically relevant microbial strains including bacteria, yeast, and fungi. Antimicrobial activity of AO was retained in PCL membranes at all ratios. Resazurin assay indicated that PCL@25AO membranes were cytocompatible with mouse fibroblast cells (L929 cell line) on day 6 showing 72.4% cell viability with respect to neat PCL membranes. Viability results were supported by scanning electron microscopy images and DAPI staining. The overall results of this study highlight the potential of PCL@25AO membranes as a biomaterial with antimicrobial properties, cytocompatibility, and mechanical strength suitable for various biomedical applications.

Structural evolution and reaction kinetics of lignin-carbohydrate complex oxidized by chlorine dioxide

Lignin-carbohydrate complexes (LCC) present a significant barrier to pulp purification, and their oxidation mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, chlorine dioxide (ClO2), a common oxidant in the paper industry, was used to treat LCCs from various plant sources. The chemical composition, structural changes, and reaction kinetics of LCC were analyzed. After ClO2 oxidation, the LC bonds connected to syringyl (S)-type lignin structural unit and FA/pCA structures in LCC were effectively degraded, whereas those connected to guaiacyl (G) and p-hydroxyphenyl propane (H)-type units remained stable. Kinetic studies revealed that under conventional oxidation conditions, the degradation rates of LCCs from bagasse, bamboo, and eucalyptus were 0.40, 1.12, and 1.75, respectively, with consumption amounts of 6.23 mg, 10.92 mg, and 15.48 mg. The differences in the degree of LCC oxidative degradation were determined by the composition of lignin structural units. The findings provide theoretical support for the action mechanism of ClO2 on LCCs during the pulp purification process, and offer important guidance for optimizing the pulp purification process.

Influence of «ORGANIC MAX» organic fertilizer on soil condition in Zakarpattia

With a shortage of traditional organic fertilizers and a constant increase in the cost of mineral fertilizers, it is important to find alternative environmentally friendly sources of nutrients. The effectiveness of the new organic fertilizer «Organic MAX», made on the basis of lignite (brown coal) and chicken droppings in the conditions of Zakarpattia region, which provides positive changes in the agrochemical criteria of the soil, has been proposed and studied. Under the influence of bird droppings, the humic substances of lignite go into a physiologically active state and effectively act as plant growth stimulants and sources of nutrients. According to the results of field studies, there is an increase in the effectiveness of this fertilizer with an increase in the content of animal waste: «Organic MAX–20» (lignite + 20% chicken droppings) and «Organic MAX–30» (lignite + 30% chicken droppings). It was found that the application of this fertilizer at a rate of 1 t/ha provided an increase in the content of organic soil matter (humus) by 0.05% for pure lignite, by 0.19% for Organic MAX–20 and by 0.66% for Organic MAX–30. There was also an increase in the content of nutrients: easily hydrolyzed nitrogen by 14.1–55.9 mg/kg; mobile phosphorus compounds at 64.5–109.3 mg/kg; mobile potassium compounds at 64.9–125.5 mg/kg. The effective effect of the fertilizers applied for the next year was revealed despite the high level of nutrient removal by a crop such as corn. The humic component is a nutrient medium for soil bacteria. The active work of microorganisms is the main link in the process of humus formation. After fertilization, there is an improvement in the water-physical properties of the soil, an increase in microbiological activity, as well as a decrease in the negative impact of adverse factors on the development of plants. On acidic soils, first of all, liming must be carried out before fertilizing. The type of this fertilizer is chosen for a specific crop after conducting agrochemical analyzes of the soil. The most effective application of these fertilizers on low-humus low-fertile soils, as well as non-structural ones, since they contribute to the optimization of soil properties. Its use is economically and environmentally feasible. It is possible to recommend environmentally friendly organic fertilizer «Organic MAX» for use in organic farming, the popularity of which in Ukraine is growing every year, to resume soil fertility.

How to get to the N – a call for interdisciplinary research on organic N utilization pathways by plants

Abstract Background and aims While nitrogen (N) derived from soil organic matter significantly sustains agricultural plants, the complexities of organic N utilization pathways remain poorly understood. Knowledge gaps persist regarding diverse organic N pools, the microbial processes in N mineralization, and how plants shape the N-mineralizing microbial community through root exudation. Results To address these gaps, we propose an integrated conceptual framework that explores the intricate interplay of soil, plant, and microbiome dynamics within the context of soil carbon (C) cycling. Emphasizing plant effects on gross depolymerization and deamination of organic N—a crucial yet often overlooked aspect—we aim to enhance our understanding of plant N utilization pathways. In this context, we suggest considering the linkages between root and hyphal exudation, followed by rhizosphere priming effects which in turn control N mobilization. Based on the relation between exudation and N turnover, we identify microbial necromass as a potentially important organic N source for plants. Furthermore, we propose applying root economic theory to gain insights into the diverse strategies employed by plants in accessing soil organic N. Stable isotope tracers and functional microbiome analytics provide tools to decipher the complex network of the pathways of organic N utilization. Conclusions The envisioned holistic framework for organic N utilization pathways, intricately connects plants, soil, and microorganisms. This lays the groundwork for sustainable agricultural practices, potentially reducing N losses.

Development of simple stability indicating RP-HPLC method to estimate ferulic acid in niosomes and marketed products using quality by design approach

Ferulic acid found in Feru-guard which is obtained from rice bran. This compound occurs in a wide range of plant sources including pineapple, various grasses, rice, leaves, beans, coffee beans, oats, grains, vegetables, flowers, fruits, peanuts and nuts. Particularly, it received a lot of attention due to its potential therapeutic uses in different pathologies, including metabolic, viral infections, cancer, cardiovascular, skin disorders, diabetes, hepatotoxicity and neurodegeneration. The article describes the methodical development of a simple, fast, highly sensitive, durable, efficient and economically viable reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) technology for measuring ferulic acid. The analysis was Performed using the Central composite design (CCD), which offers the advantage of employing a reduced number of design points and experimental runs. Employing the response surface methodology via central composite design (CCD), the study thoroughly assessed the influence of these factors. The proposed analytical method underwent comprehensive validation, ensuring its reliability as per the guidelines outlined in ICH Q2A and ICH Q2B.The preferred method employed a mobile phase consisting of Methanol and OPA buffer (50:50 % v/v, pH maintain to 4.2 with 0.1 % orthophosphoric acid), operating at a flow rate of 1 mL min⁻1,with a Chemsil ODS column, the wavelength of detection was set at 320 nm. According to the novel analytical method, Ferulic Acid exhibited a peak retention time of approximately 6.13 min. The method demonstrated linearity range of 0.5–16 μg/ml. The developed approach proved to be robust, precise and accurate, with a recovery rate of 98 %. It achieved % relative standard deviation (RSD) of below 2 %,The current stable RP-HPLC method was effectively employed for the characterization of niosomes loaded with Ferulic Acid. Furthermore, degradation studies were conducted under various conditions to elucidate the degradation pathways and resultant products.

Optimization of Biodegradation of Common Bean Biomass for Fermentation Using Trichoderma asperellum WNZ-21 and Artificial Neural Networks

This study showcases a promising approach to sustainably unlocking plant biomass residues by combining biodegradation with artificial intelligence to optimize the process. Specifically, we utilized the definitive screening design (DSD) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) to optimize the degradation of common bean biomass by the endophytic fungus Trichoderma asperellum WNZ-21. The optimized process yielded a fungal hydrolysate rich in 12 essential and non-essential amino acids, totaling 18,298.14 μg/g biomass. GC-MS analysis revealed four potential novel components not previously reported in microbial filtrates or plants and seven components exclusive to plant sources but not reported in microbial filtrates. The hydrolysate contained phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin compounds, as confirmed by FT-IR analysis. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy depicted structures resembling amino acid micelles and potential protein aggregates. The hydrolysate exhibited antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties and innovatively induced apoptotic modulation in the MCF7 cancer cell line. These findings underscore the potential of ANN-optimized fermentation for various applications, particularly in anticancer medicine due to its unique composition and bioactivities. The integration of the DSD and ANNs presents a novel technique for biomass biodegradation, warranting the valorization of plant biomass and suggesting a further exploration of the new components in the fungal hydrolysate. This approach represents the basic concept for exploring other biomass sources and in vivo studies.

In vitro and in vivo characterization of citral and limonene combinations against Vibrio campbellii in brine shrimp

The use of essential oils (EOs) has recently gained popularity due to their antimicrobial properties. However, current research primarily focuses on basic laboratory tests to identify active compounds or screen different plant sources. EOs comprise numerous constituents that interact intricately, complicating the understanding of their effective mechanisms. To address this issue, the study aimed to investigate the antibacterial activity and biological function of two major components (citral and limonene) extracted from the EO of Litsea citrata. Six assays were performed to investigate the antibacterial activity of citral and limonene, including a checkerboard assay, an inhibitory growth assay, a vapor-phase-mediated assay, a regrowth assay, a release of cellular contents assay, and an in vivo bioluminescence assay. Additionally, a challenge test and quantitative PCR of immune gene expression were conducted to assess the biological function of citral and limonene. The results showed that a citral/limonene mixture in a 1:8 ratio exhibited a synergistic effect against V. campbellii. While the antibacterial activity of the EOC mixture of citral/limonene (1:8) at the concentration of 0.0005% was relatively weak, it significantly increased the survival of Artemia when challenged with V. campbellii in vivo. These results suggest that the citral/limonene mixture in a 1:8 ratio at 0.0005% probably protects brine shrimp by immunomodulation at the host level and by reducing the colonization and/or virulence of the pathogen V. campbellii. Our results indicate the potential of this novel EOC combination to combat vibriosis in aquaculture.

Synthesis of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Using Leaf Extracts of Dillenia Indica and Mikania Micrantha: Investigation of their Potential as Photocatalysts and Antibacterial Agents

AbstractThe fields of biomedicine and catalysis have both shown a great deal of interest in copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs). Green synthesis methods are being frequently employed to develop highly active CuONPs. This research investigates the potential photocatalytic and antibacterial applications of two CuONPs that were synthesized utilizing extracts from Dillenia indica (D‐CuONPs) and Mikania micrantha (M‐CuONPs) leaves. Analysis using electron microscopy revealed that CuONPs are uniformly spherical and average size around 15 nm. The development of single‐phase CuONPs with a monoclinic structure is shown by X‐ray diffraction studies. The FTIR peaks at 695 cm−1 and 860 cm−1 represent a stretching of Cu−O, signifying the formation of CuO nanostructure. The EDX profiles stated that the CuONPs are correlated with compliantly intensified Cu and O signals. Under solar irradiation, around 90 % of congo red (CR) dye was degraded by both CuONPs in 120 min, with the rate constants of 0.0187 and 0.0174 min−1, respectively. Furthermore, CuONPs have excellent antibacterial activity against bacteria belonging to both Gram classes. Overall, CuONPs hold great potential for inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria and for degrading organic dyes in the presence of sunlight. As such, they can be manufactured on a large scale using plant sources.

Exploring the impact of encapsulation on the stability and bioactivity of peptides extracted from botanical sources: trends and opportunities.

Bioactive peptides derived from plant sources have gained significant attention for their potential use in preventing and treating chronic degenerative diseases. However, the efficacy of these peptides depends on their bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and stability. Encapsulation is a promising strategy for improving the therapeutic use of these compounds. It enhances their stability, prolongs their shelf life, protects them from degradation during digestion, and enables better release control by improving their bioaccessibility and bioavailability. This review aims to analyze the impact of various factors related to peptide encapsulation on their stability and release to enhance their biological activity. To achieve this, it is necessary to determine the composition and physicochemical properties of the capsule, which are influenced by the wall materials, encapsulation technique, and operating conditions. Furthermore, for peptide encapsulation, their charge, size, and hydrophobicity must be considered. Recent research has focused on the advancement of novel encapsulation methodologies that permit the formation of uniform capsules in terms of size and shape. In addition, it explores novel wall materials, including polysaccharides derived from unconventional sources, that allow the precise regulation of the rate at which peptides are released into the intestine.

Anti-tumor withanolides as signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 (STAT3)-inhibition from Withania obtusifolia

The Solanaceae family and the Withania genus specifically are rich sources of medicinal plants. Liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS/MS) revealed a predominance of withanolides from an organic extract of Withania obtusifolia. A constructed molecular network uncovered the presence of potentially novel withanolides. A series of withanolides were then isolated and structurally characterized from the extract including two new withanolides (withafolia A and withafolia B) and seven previously reported metabolites. Of the isolated compounds, cytotoxicity of withanolide J, physaperuvin G, and a commercial STAT3 inhibitor (S3I-201) were assessed against a human leukemia HL-60 cell line resulting in IC50 values of 26, 29, and 120 μM, respectively. In silico molecular docking simulations indicate that withanolide J and physaperuvin G can bind as an inhibitor in the active site of STAT3 with docking scores comparable to the selective STAT3 inhibitor, S3I-201.

Economical, one-pot, and green synthesis of plant-based carbon quantum dots for efficient visible-light photocatalytic dye degradation and water purification

BackgroundGreen, in-situ, one-pot, facile, and economical synthesis of efficient photocatalysts to destroy emerging aqueous contaminants is essential. MethodBiocompatible carbon quantum dots (CQDs) photocatalysts were successfully synthesized from a plant source called garden thyme as a low-cost precursor by one-step calcination method. CQDs were synthesized in both pure form and co-doped with fluorine and boron indicating size of <10 nm and favorable quantum yield of 40%. Four key factors including synthesis temperature, synthesis time, fluorine and boron weight ratios, and CQDs size were investigated on removal rates of organic pollutant Rhodamine B (RhB). Significant findings10%F-10%B co-doped CQDs with synthesized at 400 ºC for 5 h with a size of <10 nm, showed the highest photocatalytic RhB degradation performances of 86.1% and 89% within 40 and 60 min, respectively. This improved performance was originated from synergetic influences of quantum size, co-doping, promising quantum yield, and great visible light harvesting, that satisfactorily separated and transported light-created electron-hole pair. Trapping experimental data approved that hydroxyl radicals were dominant reactive species that oxidized RhB on F,B co-doped CQDs catalysts upon visible light radiation. Overall, CQDs could be easily synthesized as a green and super-cheap photocatalyst and would be effective for wastewater treatments.

Andrographis paniculata Ethanolic Extract Improved Doxorubicin-induced Cardiac Inflammation, Alterations in Liver Function Parameters and Anemia

Background: Doxorubicin (DOX), an efficacious chemotherapy drug is compromised by cardiotoxicity, myelosuppression, and hepatotoxicity. Due to the limited success of current treatments for DOX toxicity, there is a pressing need to explore alternative medical interventions, particularly from plant sources. This study was conducted to investigate the potential protective effect of ethanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata leaves (EEAP) against DOX-induced cardiac inflammation, liver toxicity, and anemia.Materials and methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with DOX at a total dose of 16 mg/kgBW. EEAP was administered orally for 4 weeks at doses of 125, 250, and 500 mg/kgBW/day according to the assigned treatment groups. The mRNA expression levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3) in the heart tissue, along with the concentrations of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB) and calcium level were examined. Additionally, the hematological parameters (including hematocrit, hemoglobin and red blood cells (RBCs)), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in blood were also analyzed.Results: EEAP dose-dependently decreased the mRNA expressions of IL-1β (p&lt;0.05), tended to decrease mRNA expression of NLRP3 and the concentrations of NFκB and calcium in heart tissue compared with the DOX-only group. Additionally, EEAP dose-dependently decreased ALP values (p&lt;0.0001) and tended to improve hematological parameters, as well as AST and MDA levels in serum.Conclusion: This extract may prevent DOX-induced cardiac inflammation, anemia, and hepatotoxicity. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings, including the efficacy profile of the extract in cancer rats treated with DOX.Keywords: doxorubicin, Andrographis paniculata, inflammation, anemia, hepatotoxicity, herbal medicine

Advances in nanocarrier-mediated delivery of chrysin: Enhancing solubility, bioavailability, and anticancer efficacy

Chrysin, a natural phytochemical compound found in various plant sources, possesses diverse pharmacological benefits, including anticancer, antioxidant, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, immunoregulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite its well-documented biological activities, chrysin's low water solubility and bioavailability hinder its clinical development. This review explores the application of nanocarriers as a strategic approach to overcome these challenges and enhance the delivery of chrysin. Nanocarriers, including polymer-based nanoparticles (NPs), lipid-based NPs, and inorganic nanocarriers, have shown promise in improving the solubility, bioavailability, and tumor-targeted delivery of chrysin. The paper discusses chrysin's anticancer effects on different types of human cancers, elucidating its impact on crucial signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis. The review categorizes and analyzes various nanocarriers, providing insights into their structural properties and drug release profiles. Among the nanocarriers, polymer-based NPs, especially those utilizing PLGA, emerge as promising strategies for chrysin encapsulation, demonstrating improvements in drug release, stability, and bioavailability. Lipid-based NPs and inorganic nanocarriers also exhibit potential in enhancing chrysin delivery. The comprehensive insights provided contribute to a deeper understanding of chrysin's pharmacological properties and its potential clinical applications, offering valuable perspectives for future research and translation into clinical settings. The review underscores the importance of selecting suitable structures for chrysin encapsulation to enhance its physicochemical properties and anticancer effects, paving the way for innovative nanomedicine approaches in cancer therapy.

Food source diversity and honey production in stingless bee meliponiculture, Ogan Komering Ulu Timur, South Sumatra, Indonesia

Abstract. Rahmad B, Damiri N, Hanafiah Z, Adriani D, Hanum L. 2024. Food source diversity and honey production in stingless bee meliponiculture, Ogan Komering Ulu Timur, South Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2747-2756. This research, conducted with meticulous care, aims to collect data on the diversity of food source plants and analyze vegetation, honey production, and quality in stingless bee cultivation (Meliponiculture) in East Ogan Komering Ulu District (OKUT), South Sumatra Province, Indonesia. The research was carried out using a comprehensive survey method with a qualitative and quantitative approach. The qualitative methods record the type of stingless bee food sources, while qualitative methods are used for honey quality. Direct observation, questionnaires, and in-depth interviews with beekeepers were carried out to collect data on honey production. The investigation involved observing food-supply plants in the meliponiculture area designated as the research site. Meliponiculture area location is the presence of beekeepers actively engaged in producing honey. The results of the inventory of food plant types at the meliponiculture location showed that the composition of food source plants consisted of six species of forestry plants, three species of plantation plants, seven species of MPTs, one species of crop plant, eight species of home garden and four species of shrubs. The planting pattern of plantation and forestry possesses the highest honey yield, which is 360 kg per year. Cultivated honey products have good quality and comply with Indonesian National Standards (SNI), which include organoleptic tests and laboratory tests, with results: Water content 27.14% w/w, reducing sugar content 62.05% w/w, degree of acidity 101.64 ml NaOH Kg, Total solids insoluble in water 0,066% w/w, Ash Content 0.24% w/w, and acidity degree (pH) 3.25.

Characteristics and Source Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds in Typical Ozone Pollution Processes During Summer in Jinan, China

Based on a typical ozone （O3） pollution process in Jinan City from June 16 to 26, 2021, the variation characteristics of O3 and its precursor volatile organic compounds （VOCs） during different pollution periods （clean period （CP）, pollution rise period （PRP）, heavy pollution period （HPP）, and pollution decline period （PDP）） in the urban area were analyzed. Both positive matrix factorization （PMF） and an observation-based model （OBM） were used to identify the main sources of VOCs, O3 production mechanisms, and sensitive species. The results showed that the average value of ρ（O3-8h） during the HPP period in the urban area was （246.67±11.24） μg·m-3, and ρ（O3-1h） had a peak value of 300 μg·m-3. The volume fractions of VOCs and NO2 concentration were affected by the decrease in planetary boundary layer and wind speed, which were 76.99%-145.36% and 127.78%-141.18% higher than those in the other three periods, respectively, and were the main reasons for the aggravation of O3 pollution. Alkanes, oxygenated volatile organic compounds （OVOCs）, and halogenated hydrocarbons accounted for 43.81%, 20.98%, and 17.43% of VOCs in urban areas, respectively. All of them showed significant growth during the HPP period, with acetone, propane, and ethane being the top three species by volume in each stage and isopentane showing the highest growth during the HPP period. Alkene, alkanes, and aromatic hydrocarbons accounted for 40.19%, 28.06%, and 21.92% of the ozone generation potential （OFP）. 1-butene, toluene, isopentane, and isoprene were the species with higher OFP. Isoprene had the highest OFP during the PRP phase, and 1-butene had the highest OFP during the HPP phase. The volume fraction of isopentane significantly increased OFP. The correlation coefficient between VOCs and CO preliminarily indicated that motor vehicle exhaust and oil and gas volatilization were the main sources of VOCs during the HPP period. Further use of PMF revealed that solvent use sources, combustion sources, motor vehicle exhaust+oil and gas volatilization sources, industrial emission sources, and plant sources were important sources of VOCs in urban areas. The contribution of motor vehicle exhaust+oil and gas volatilization sources in the HPP period to VOCs was 3.09-14.72 times higher than that in other periods. The contribution of solvent use sources to VOCs was approximately 2.50 times higher than that in the CP and PRP periods. The main sources of VOCs volume fraction increase were motor vehicle exhaust, oil and gas volatilization sources, and solvent use sources. Potential sources and concentration weight analysis found that VOCs were also affected by the transmission of VOCs to Binzhou and Dongying in the northeast direction. The OBM results indicated that the main pathway of O3 formation in urban areas was the reaction of peroxide hydroxyl radicals （HO2·） and methyl peroxide radicals （CH3O2·） with NO, and the net ozone generation rate during the HPP phase [P（O3）net] was 24×10-9 h-1. Based on the sensitivity experiment results, the alkene components of 1-butene, propylene, cis-2-butene, and ethylene were the dominant species for O3 production.

Disease suppression efficacy of Dysoxylum terpenoids against the bacterial sheath light pathogen, Xanthomonasoryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) on susceptible rice (Oryza sativa L) through induced resistance through biocatalysis

The severe disease Xanthomonasoryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) causes in rice plants is known as rice bacterial blight.As a result of the risks associated with the indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides, bio elicitors derived from plant sources may be sought after as superior and safer substitutes. Thus, the objective of the current study was to assess the potential of terpenes from Dysoxylummalabaricum (D. Meliaceae) leaf to promote plant defence and provide protection from Xoo. It was observed that D. malabaricum leaves contained eight major terpene compounds (DMT). The application of DMT induced defence enzyme synthesis (peroxidase, PO - polyphenol oxidase, PPO) and accumulation till 120 h post treatment and their levels increased further post infection of Xoo. Direct suppression of Xoo growth in-vitro evidently decreased disease incidence and severity offering effective disease control, consequently enhancing plant growth parameters and biomass. Overall, our study suggests that D. malabaricum terpenes have a significant role in preventing the growth of Xoo in rice plants, providing long-term plant protection.

The Role of Quercetin as a Plant-Derived Bioactive Agent in Preventive Medicine and Treatment in Skin Disorders.

Quercetin, a bioactive plant flavonoid, is an antioxidant, and as such it exhibits numerous beneficial properties including anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antibacterial and antiviral activity. It occurs naturally in fruit and vegetables such as apples, blueberries, cranberries, lettuce, and is present in plant waste such as onion peel or grape pomace which constitute good sources of quercetin for technological or pharmaceutical purposes. The presented study focuses on the role of quercetin in prevention and treatment of dermatological diseases analyzing its effect at a molecular level, its signal transduction and metabolism. Presented aspects of quercetin potential for skin treatment include protection against aging and UV radiation, stimulation of wound healing, reduction in melanogenesis, and prevention of skin oxidation. The article discusses quercetin sources (plant waste products included), methods of its medical administration, and perspectives for its further use in dermatology and diet therapy.

Chemical Composition and Storage Stability of Crunchy Snacks Produced from Corn, Red Kidney Beans and Onion Flour

Corn flour is a very important ingredients in producing crunchy snacks. However, the use of other plant sources to supplement corn flour in producing crunchy snacks is not uncommon. This study thus investigated the chemical composition and storage stability of crunchy snack produced from corn, red kidney beans and onion flour. Three samples EOD: Corn: Red Kidney Bean: Onion (70:25:5%); XYZ: Corn: Red Kidney Bean: Onion (70:20:10%); FAV: Corn: Red Kidney Bean: Onion (70:15:15%) and a control ABC: Oyato crunchy snack, were analysed for proximate, mineral, free fatty acid (FFA), thiobarbituric acid (TBA), saponification value (SV), peroxide value (PV), Microbial population and Sensory properties. Proximate Composition; moisture content ranged from 4.03 - 15.33% and crude protein content ranged from 3.33 – 9.52% among the samples. Mineral Composition; P, Ca, Na and Cd ranged between, 31.52 – 51.63 mg/100g, 3.57-4.53 mg/100g, 181.80-314.40 mg/100g, and not detected respectively for the samples. FFA had first month 2.45 – 5.33% and second month 3.14 – 5.33%. Storage stability; TBA first month had 0.18 to 0.51 mgMDA/Kg and second month 1.67 – 2.36 mgMDA/Kg; SV first month had 7.04 - 68.85 mgKOH/g and second month 7.65 to 103.70 mgKOH/g; PV first month had 3.50 to 20.00 meq/Kg and second month 8.50 to 21.50 meq/Kg. The microbial population was relatively low and within safe limits, total viable and fungi count 1.5-7.0×102 Cfu/g and 2.5-9×102 cfu/g after the first month respectively; total viable and fungi count 9.0-45×102 cfu/g and 5.0-25×102 cfu/g after second month respectively. There were no significant differences (p&lt; 0.05) in the crunchiness, mouthfeel and overall acceptability of formulated crunchy snack samples and the commercial crunchy snack. The crunchy snacks investigated in this study has a good sensory evaluation and storage stability.

Tiny messengers, big results: A review of exosome-mediated treatments and considerations in dermatology

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that play an important role in intercellular communication by transporting proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells. They have emerged as relevant research areas due to their involvement in regulating various physiological and pathological processes. This review explores the potential applications of exosome-based therapies in dermatology and examines the safety aspects of these treatments. Past research has demonstrated that exosomes may effectively treat conditions such as alopecia and accelerate wound healing by stimulating hair follicle growth and enhancing tissue regeneration. Studies have shown that exosomes can promote the proliferation of dermal papilla cells and hair follicle growth in cases of alopecia. They also accelerate wound healing by modulating processes involved in inflammation, cell migration, and tissue remodeling. However, more research is needed to fully characterize the long-term safety profile of exosomes and establish standardized clinical protocols. Both human-derived and plant-derived exosomes appear to have favorable safety profiles based on current evidence, though plant sources may offer advantages in terms of production and biocompatibility. Continued exploration of exosomes&amp;rsquo; mechanisms and potential risks will optimize these innovations and offer safe, effective exosome treatments to patients. While further research is warranted, current findings provide valuable insights into the applications of exosome therapy for dermatological conditions and its emerging role in precision medicine.