Strong Antioxidant Activity Research Articles

Macrophage membrane-coated polydopamine nanomedicine for treating acute lung injury through modulation of neutrophil extracellular traps and M2 macrophage polarization.

Macrophage membrane-coated polydopamine nanomedicine for treating acute lung injury through modulation of neutrophil extracellular traps and M2 macrophage polarization.

Optimization for ultrasound combined with flash extraction of polysaccharides from Phyllanthus emblica L. with antioxidant and hyperglycemic activity in vitro.

Optimization for ultrasound combined with flash extraction of polysaccharides from Phyllanthus emblica L. with antioxidant and hyperglycemic activity in vitro.

Antioxidant and anticancer activity of Canarium ovatum Engl. (Pili) ethanolic leaf extracts

The Pili (Canarium ovatum Engl.) tree, native to the Philippines, has been reported to have medicinal properties because of the biological and chemical properties it exhibits. This paper aimed to investigate the presence of phytochemicals, antioxidant, and anticancer activities of the ethanolic leaf extract of C. ovatum. To determine the phytochemicals, present in the extract, standard procedures for qualitative phytochemical screening were performed. The antioxidant activity of the extract was assessed in vitro using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay. The anticancer activity of the extract was assessed in vitro using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) cell viability assay against the HCT116 cancer cell line. Phytochemical screening of C. ovatum ethanolic leaf extract detected alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins. The extract had extremely high antioxidant activity (IC<sub>50</sub>=11.44 mg/L). The MTT assay revealed moderate cytotoxic activity of the leaf extract to HCT116 cancer cell line (IC<sub>50</sub>=94.43 mg/L). These findings suggest that the C. ovatum ethanolic leaf extract has therapeutic potential because of the presence of beneficial phytochemicals, strong antioxidant activity, and anticancer capacity. Futher research is recommended to comprehensively evaluate the medicinal potential of Pili leaf extracts, including exploring other biological activities using various assays and employing different solvents for leaf extraction.

Microencapsulation of Angelica sinensis essential oil by complex coacervation using chitosan and gelatin: Optimization, characterization, in vitro digestion, and biological activity.

Microencapsulation of Angelica sinensis essential oil by complex coacervation using chitosan and gelatin: Optimization, characterization, in vitro digestion, and biological activity.

Biomarkers of heavy metals pollution in mangrove ecosystems: Comparative assessment in industrial impact and conservation zones.

Heavy metal contamination from industrial activities in coastal regions can lead to pollution in mangrove ecosystems. Mangroves produce antioxidant compounds to mitigate the impact of free radicals. This study aimed to analyze the correlation between the concentration of heavy metals Pb and Cu and antioxidant activity in Avicennia alba and Excoecaria agallocha mangroves from areas affected by industrial activities and conservation areas, Banyuasin, South Sumatra, Indonesia. This study was conducted in September 2023 with sampling locations in the Payung Island area and the Barong River conservation area, Berbak Sembilang National Park. The samples taken included sediment and mangrove leaves. The concentration of heavy metals Pb and Cu was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. Antioxidant activity test using the DPPH test, total phenol using the Folin-Ciocalteu method, and phytochemical profile screening using GCMS. Statistical analysis of the correlation between antioxidant activity and heavy metal concentration using the Pearson correlation. The results showed that the highest concentration of heavy metals in sediment and mangrove leaves was found in the area affected by industrial activity, with a range of Pb values of 0.67 ± 0.16-18.70 ± 0.48 mg/kg and Cu values of 3.39 ± 0.20-6.07 ± 0.37 mg / kg. The results of sediment pollution assessment for heavy metals Pb and Cu at Igeo < 0 indicates uncontaminated, 1 < Cf < 3 indicates low contamination, and PLI 0-2 indicates not polluted. While the results of heavy metal bioaccumulation in leaves were BCF < 1, indicates low bioaccumulation. E. agallocha leaves from the Pulau Payung area showed very strong antioxidant activity of 21.63 μg/ml, and the highest total phenol content reached 398.80 mg GAE/g. Analysis of compounds with the highest antioxidant activity identified the presence of esters, aldehydes, alcohols, fatty acids, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids. Correlation analysis shows that higher heavy metal concentrations correspond to increased antioxidant activity and total phenol content (r ≠ 0). These findings are expected to contribute to scientific knowledge that enhances environmental sustainability, supporting effective management of coastal natural resources.

Identification and characterization of novel antioxidant peptides from Yunnan dry-cured beef: A combined in silico and in vitro study.

Identification and characterization of novel antioxidant peptides from Yunnan dry-cured beef: A combined in silico and in vitro study.

β-Cyclodextrin as an elicitor of polyphenolic contents of barley (Hurdeum vulgare) callus with antioxidant and anti-aging properties on human skin fibroblast cells (HFF2)

β-Cyclodextrin as an elicitor of polyphenolic contents of barley (Hurdeum vulgare) callus with antioxidant and anti-aging properties on human skin fibroblast cells (HFF2)

Enhancing Cream Cheese Nutritional Value and Shelf Life with the Incorporation of Free and Microencapsulated Onion Peel Extract

Abstract Onion production generates a substantial amount of waste rich in bioactive compounds with noteworthy biological properties. This study aimed to extract bioactive compounds from onion peels (OP) using a Soxhlet apparatus in a solid-liquid extraction. The extracted compounds were then encapsulated by applying the double emulsion technique and using ethyl cellulose (EC) as an encapsulating agent, followed by their incorporation into a cream cheese to extend its shelf life. Antioxidant capacity was determined using ABTS and DPPH assays, while total phenolic content (TPC) was quantified by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The extract demonstrated strong antioxidant activity by scavenging ABTS and DPPH radicals, and the value of TPC was 396.7 mgGAE∙gextract −1. Additionally, the extract inhibited the activity of α-amylase and β-glucosidase by 91.9 and 95.8%, respectively, demonstrating potential anti-diabetic properties. The microencapsulated OP extract revealed a production yield of 73.9% and an encapsulation efficiency of 71.2%. The microparticles exhibited a round-shaped morphology, with size variation indicated by a polydispersity index of 1.38 and showed greater thermal stability than the free OP extract. Evaluation of the extract and microparticles in cream cheese fortification demonstrated that the samples exhibited reduced syneresis, maintained stable moisture content, and offered extended protection against lipid oxidation compared to the negative control. In addition, both fortified samples also had higher TPC and increased antioxidant capacity. Therefore, incorporating free and microencapsulated OP extract into cream cheese offers a sustainable approach to valorising onion waste, enhancing product quality while promoting circular economy principles. Graphical Abstract

Literature Review: Extraction Methods and Antioxidant Activity of Rhizophora mucronata Leaves

Free radicals are highly reactive molecules and can trigger various degenerative diseases, so prevention efforts are needed through effective antioxidants. This study aims to review and analyze the extraction method of R. mucronata leaves in increasing antioxidant activity against DPPH free radicals. This study was conducted through a literature review of experimental research articles obtained from Google Scholar and PubMed databases using specific keywords, covering national and international publications for the period 2015-2025. The obtained articles were analyzed based on the extraction technique, solvent type, and IC₅₀ value reported in the article. The analysis showed that cold extraction methods, especially multi-step maceration with methanol solvent, can produce R. mucronata leaf extracts with very strong antioxidant activity with an IC₅₀ value of 0.04 ppm. The conclusion of this study confirms that extraction technique and solvent selection can affect the antioxidant activity of R. mucronata leaves. These findings support the need for optimization of extraction methods to maximize antioxidant effectiveness in the development of natural antioxidants.

Formulation and Characterization of Peel-Off Gel Mask Containing Secang (&lt;i&gt;Caesalpinia sappan&lt;/i&gt; L.) Wood Extract with Strong Antioxidant Activity

Secang (Caesalpinia sappan L.) wood contains flavonoid compounds such as brazilin, 3'-O-methylbrazilin, sappanin chalcone, and sappan chalcone, which act as primary and secondary antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that can inhibit oxidation reactions by neutralizing free radicals. Enhancing the antioxidant potential of C. sappan wood can be achieved by developing a topical dosage form. Peel-off gel masks are an ideal form due to their ability to improve skin health and provide ease and comfort in application. This study aimed to formulate a peel-off gel mask containing C. sappan extract and evaluate its physical properties and antioxidant activity. The formulations were prepared using 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% extract with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, and propylene glycol as the base. The resulting masks were assessed for physical characteristics (pH, viscosity, spreadability, adhesiveness, and drying time) and antioxidant activity using the DPPH method. The results indicated that increasing the extract concentration significantly (p &lt; 0.05) increased viscosity, adhesiveness, and drying time, while decreasing pH, spreadability, and IC₅₀ value. All formulations demonstrated strong antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ between 50–100 µg/mL), with IC₅₀ values of 88.71 µg/mL, 81.58 µg/mL, and 79.04 µg/mL, respectively.

Comprehensive Evaluation of the Bioactives of Elaeagnus umbellata for Their Antidiabetic Potential Using In Vitro and In Silico Approaches.

Elaeagnus umbellata is known for its medicinal properties, including its ability to promote wound healing and exhibit antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, methanolic leaf and bark extract (MLE and MBE) of E. umbellata was tested for total phenol and flavonoid content and evaluated for antioxidant activity. FTIR and GC-MS analysis were followed by an in silico study of bioactive constituents for their role in inhibiting advanced glycation end-products (RAGEs) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP1) receptors. Both extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, with MLE showing stronger activity than MBE. The FTIR spectra for functional groups confirmed a diverse range of metabolites. The GC-MS analysis showed 41 bioactive compounds exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities. The docking analysis of selected compounds with RAGE and GLP1 receptors revealed variations in binding affinities, pKi values, and ligand efficiencies. E. umbellata contains a significant amount of phytochemicals exhibiting strong antioxidant activity. The activity of phenols and flavonoids suggests that they can be used as a source of natural antioxidants. Molecular docking analysis indicates that various compounds have the potential to act as effective inhibitors of RAGE and GLP, thereby modulating proinflammatory responses and mitigating oxidative damage in the cellular pathways.

Formulation and Characterization of Peel-Off Gel Mask Containing Secang (&lt;i&gt;Caesalpinia sappan&lt;/i&gt; L.) Wood Extract with Strong Antioxidant Activity

Secang (Caesalpinia sappan L.) wood contains flavonoid compounds such as brazilin, 3'-O-methylbrazilin, sappanin chalcone, and sappan chalcone, which act as primary and secondary antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that can inhibit oxidation reactions by neutralizing free radicals. Enhancing the antioxidant potential of C. sappan wood can be achieved by developing a topical dosage form. Peel-off gel masks are an ideal form due to their ability to improve skin health and provide ease and comfort in application. This study aimed to formulate a peel-off gel mask containing C. sappan extract and evaluate its physical properties and antioxidant activity. The formulations were prepared using 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% extract with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, and propylene glycol as the base. The resulting masks were assessed for physical characteristics (pH, viscosity, spreadability, adhesiveness, and drying time) and antioxidant activity using the DPPH method. The results indicated that increasing the extract concentration significantly (p &lt; 0.05) increased viscosity, adhesiveness, and drying time, while decreasing pH, spreadability, and IC₅₀ value. All formulations demonstrated strong antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ between 50–100 µg/mL), with IC₅₀ values of 88.71 µg/mL, 81.58 µg/mL, and 79.04 µg/mL, respectively.

A Green Integrated Approach to Multifunctional Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Aronia melanocarpa.

Background/Objectives: This study reports the green synthesis, optimization, characterization, and multifunctional evaluation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using an ethanolic Aronia melanocarpa berry extract. The objective was to establish optimal synthesis conditions; assess the in vitro stability; and evaluate the antioxidant, photocatalytic, and photoprotective activities. Methods: The cytogenotoxic effects of the AgNPs were evaluated on Triticum aestivum roots. The AgNPs were synthesized via bioreduction using an ethanolic extract of A. melanocarpa under varied pH, AgNO3 concentration, extract/AgNO3 ratio, temperature, and stirring time, with optimization guided by UV-Vis spectral analysis. The AgNPs were further characterized by FTIR, DLS, TEM, and EDX. In vitro stability was evaluated over six months in different dispersion media (ultrapure water; 5% NaCl; and PBS at pH 6, 7, and 8). Biological assessments included antioxidant assays (lipoxygenase inhibition, DPPH radical scavenging, metal chelation, and hydroxyl radical scavenging), photocatalytic dye degradation, and SPF determination. Results: Optimal synthesis was achieved at pH 8, 3 mM AgNO3, extract/AgNO3 ratio of 1:9, 40 °C, and 240 min stirring. The AgNPs were spherical (TEM), well dispersed (PDI = 0.32), and highly stable (zeta potential = -40.71 mV). PBS pH 6 and 7 ensured the best long-term colloidal stability. The AgNPs displayed strong dose-dependent antioxidant activity, with superior lipoxygenase inhibition (EC50 = 18.29 µg/mL) and the effective photocatalytic degradation of dyes under sunlight. Photoprotective properties were confirmed through UV absorption analysis. The AgNPs showed a strong antimitotic effect on wheat root cells. Conclusions: The study demonstrates that A. melanocarpa-mediated AgNPs are stable, biologically active, and suitable for potential biomedical, cosmetic, and environmental applications, reinforcing the relevance of plant-based nanotechnology.

Special Characterization and Excellent Antioxidant Capabilities of Zinc Chelated Squid Protein Nanoparticles.

The functional exploration of marine-derived proteins is at the forefront of nutritional research. The Argentine squid protein (ASP) was extracted from Argentine squid carcasses and was hydrolyzed using neutral protease, with the degree of hydrolysis serving as the response variable. Using single-factor experiments and response surface methodology, we identified optimal conditions for preparing Argentine squid protein peptides (ASPP). The hydrolysis degree reached 41.32% ± 0.27 under the conditions of 7% enzyme preparation addition, 2.4 h enzyme digestion time, and 6% substrate concentration. The ASPP was subsequently chelated with zinc sulfate to produce Zn-ASPP, whose structural and functional properties-including particle size, FTIR, DSC, viscosity, SEM, solubility, emulsibility, foamability, and antioxidant capacity-were systematically characterized. The results indicate that Zn-ASPP forms stable nanoparticles with strong antioxidant activity. The strongest antioxidant capacity reached 73.79% at a solution pH of 8, making it particularly valuable for food industry applications. This work may provide a theoretical basis and practical guidance for the development of zinc-fortified marine protein supplements with enhanced antioxidant properties.

Comprehensive Investigation of Phytochemical Constituents and Biological Activities of Scabiosa pseudograminifolia Hub.-Mor.

The aim of this study was to comprehensively investigate the phytochemical composition, including essential oils, fatty acids, and phenolic constituents, and to evaluate the antioxidant and α-amylase inhibitory activities of Scabiosa pseudograminifolia Hub.-Mor. (Caprifoliaceae), an endemic species growing in Sivas province of Türkiye. The plant materials were processed to obtain essential oils, and n-hexane, methanol, and aqueous extracts for chemical and biological evaluations. Essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation. Extracts were prepared using n-hexane, methanol, and water through maceration. The chemical compositions of the essential oil and fatty acids were analyzed using gas chromatography (GC)-mass spectrometry and GC-flame ionization detector (FID). Phenolic compounds were identified by reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant activity [DPPH, Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC), β-carotene bleaching, and Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity assays], and α-amylase inhibitory activity were all evaluated using spectrophotometric methods. Hexadecanoic acid (30.2%) and linalool (15.6%) were the main volatile compounds in the essential oil of S. pseudograminifolia. (Z)-3-Hexenal was the dominant leaf and flower volatile. The primary fatty acids were nonadecanoic and hexadecanoic acids. The aqueous extract exhibited the highest total phenolic (0.52±0.01 mg gallic acid equivalent/gextract) and flavonoid (0.081±0.002 mg quercetin equivalent/gextract) contents. Among the tested samples, the essential oil showed the strongest TEAC value (2.39±0.15 mM), while the aqueous extract demonstrated potent antioxidant activity in DPPH (IC55: 0.16±0.04 mg/mL) and β-carotene bleaching assays (inhibitory concentration55: 0.730±0.001 mg/mL). The α-amylase inhibition levels of the extracts were found to be relatively low. Chlorogenic acid was the predominant phenolic compound. This study presents the first phytochemical and biological investigation of S. pseudograminifolia Hub.-Mor., an endemic species from Türkiye. Essential oil analysis revealed hexadecanoic acid and linalool as major constituents, while nonadecanoic and hexadecanoic acids were predominant among the fatty acids. The methanol extract showed strong antioxidant activity, and chlorogenic acid was identified as a key phenolic compound. These findings support the potential of this species as a valuable source of natural antioxidants.

Syzygium australe extracts exhibit significant antioxidant and antidiabetic properties: a comprehensive analysis of the phytoconstituents

BackgroundMedicinal plants are well known for their health benefits. Syzygium australe (Brush Cherry) is considered a health-promoting food due to its high antioxidant capacity, which may help prevent cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders. Additionally, S. australe exhibits antidiabetic and antiobesity properties. AimThis study reviews the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of S. australe fractions, along with their key phytoconstituents.Materials and methods The antioxidant activity of S. australe crude extract and fractions was assessed using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl-hydrate), ABTS (2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), FIC (ferrozine iron metal chelation), and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) assays. Their antidiabetic activity was evaluated using α-glucosidase, α-amylase, and lipase inhibition assays. Additionally, their TFC (total flavonoid content) and TPC (total phenolic content) were determined. The secondary metabolites were analysed using Triple TOF UPLC-ESI–MS/MS (ultra-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-time of flight-mass spectrometry).ResultsOur findings, for the first time, reveal that various S. australe extracts exhibit strong antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. The butanol and ethyl acetate fractions had the highest antidiabetic activity. Their respective IC₅₀ values against α-glucosidase, α-amylase, and lipase were 0.11–0.14 µg/mL, 0.06–0.09 µg/mL, and 26.5–30.79 ng/mL, respectively. Also, they showed powerful antioxidant activity. The IC50 values of the ethyl acetate (19.93 ± 1 μg/mL) and butanol (38.7 μg/mL) fractions were significantly lower than those of the reference compounds, Trolox (24.42 ± 0.87 μg/mL) in the DPPH assay and EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) (39.7 μg/mL) in the ferrozine iron metal chelation assay, respectively. They had a higher amount of TPC (397.65 ± 14.78, 253.32 ± 10.78 µg GAE/mg sample) and TFC (97.89 ± 4.98, 23.14 ± 1.11 µg RE/mg sample) of ethyl acetate and butanol, respectively. The significant phenolic and flavonoid substances found in these extracts may account for their strong antioxidant activity. Triple TOF UPLC-ESI–MS/MS analysis detected 18 phenolic acids, 19 derivatives, and 39 flavonoids. As a way to prevent or treat various disorders, these two extracts additionally served as a great source of antioxidant phytochemicals.ConclusionUltimately, our findings strongly suggest that the phenolics of S. australe may be valuable for the development of antioxidant and antidiabetic medications.

Agro-Industrial Waste from Pistacia vera: Chemical Profile and Bioactive Properties.

In Argentina and globally, pistachio (Pistacia vera) production has significantly grown, driven by its high nutritional value and food industry demand. Its harvesting and processing generate about 40% of pistachio waste (PW), including leaves, twigs, seed coats, green, and empty kernels. Underutilized PW has led to environmental problems, including soil and water contamination by landfill accumulation. However, it could be a potential source of undiscovered bioactive compounds. This study aimed to characterize the chemical profile and to evaluate the bioactive properties of PW. The dried pistachio waste (dPW) was used to prepare the pistachio waste decoction (PWD) (10% w/v). The total phenolic content (TPC) and flavonoid content (FC) were quantified, and the chemical profile was analyzed using UPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS. Nematicidal activity against Meloidogyne incognita (J2), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) inhibition, antioxidant capacity (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP), and phytotoxicity on Allium cepa, Lactuca sativa, and Raphanus sativus were evaluated. The UPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analysis identified 26 compounds, including phenolics, flavonoids, and unsaturated fatty acids. The main compounds were gallic acid, anacardic acid, and quercetin derivatives. The TPC and FC were 212.65 mg GAE/g dPW and 0.022 mg QE/g dPW, respectively, displaying strong antioxidant activity across the assays DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP. PWD exhibited nematicidal activity against M. incognita (J2) (LC50 = 0.12% at 24 h). Alterations in the cuticle were observed, including structural disorganization and detachment from internal tissues. Additionally, a remarkable cholinesterase inhibitory effect was detected at 2.0% PWD (42.65% for AChE and 58.90% for BuChE). PWD showed low phytotoxic effects across the tested species, and the germination percentage (GP) and the mean germination time (MGT) were not significantly affected (GP > 79%). These findings highlight the potential of PW as a sustainable alternative for M. incognita control, the remarkable nematicidal, anticholinesterase, and antioxidant properties, and the low phytotoxicity, supporting its use in sustainable agricultural practices.

Electrospun Nanofiber Films Containing Hesperidin and Ofloxacin for the Inhibition of Inflammation and Psoriasis: A Potential In vitro Study.

Nanofiber (NF) films have emerged as a promising alternative for treating psoriasis. Based on their specific characteristics, they have distinguished themselves from other topical dosage forms, such as hydrogels, foams, and sponges. This research focuses on making biocompatible and biodegradable nanofibers out of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) and gelatin, by adding Hesperidin (HPN) and Ofloxacin (OFX) as medicines. HPN-OFX-integrated nanofiber (HPN-OFXNF) films were prepared using the electrospinning technique. Subsequently, the surface morphology, entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug diffusion, as well as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-psoriasis properties were investigated. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that the produced nanofibers exhibited smooth surfaces through diameters from 50.67 to 114.4 nm. Most of the nanofibers exhibited a moderate entrapment efficacy of around 69.3 ± 1.8% for OFX and 45.63 ± 1.6% for HPN. In vitro HPN and OFX release showed a biphasic trend of an early burst trailed through a sustained pattern after approximately 48 h, depending on the surface area and diameter of the fibers. In vitro, antimicrobial testing of the films demonstrated higher inhibition zones (24.89 ± 3.2 and 42.46 ± 4.4 mm) against E. coli and S. aureus. The anti-inflammatory assay indicated that the activity was doubled with HPN-OFX-loaded nanofibers, compared to pure HPN. Moreover, the NF films had stronger antioxidant activities with a higher scavenging of DPPH and hydroxyl radicals. HPN-OFXNF films have been demonstrated to possess stronger antiproliferative activities than pure HPN on human keratinocytes in follow-up experiments showing an IC50 value of 64.6 ± 3.4 μg/mL. This therapy, which includes a combined anti-inflammatory and antibacterial treatment strategy with an innovative drug delivery system, has proven to be a promising development in treating psoriasis.

From Waste to Palate: Importance of Banana Peel Ash in Assamese Culinary Tradition

Traditionally viewed as waste, Banana peels have been increasingly recognized for their wide-ranging applications. They exhibit strong antioxidant activity, helping to combat oxidative stress. In Assam, banana peel ash has been historically incorporated into local diets, particularly as a natural food additive and functional ingredient. It is commonly used for its alkaline properties, locally known as “Kolakhar”. Despite its traditional importance in Assamese cuisine, there remains a lack of systematic scientific studies investigating its physicochemical properties. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating the pH and alkali element composition of Kolakhar prepared from peels of four banana cultivars belonging to different genomic groups. The study investigated the effect of cultivar type and concentration levels (10%, 20%, and 30%) on the pH of Kolakhar. Furthermore, it analyzed the concentration of four key alkaline elements—potassium, sodium, carbonate and calcium to understand their variability across different cultivars. The findings revealed that alkali element composition in banana peels—potassium, sodium, calcium, and carbonate—varies significantly across cultivars, influenced by their genomic constitution. All the four alkali elements recorded in the order of potassium&gt;carbonate&gt;calcium&gt;sodium and these elements contributed to the alkaline pH of Kolakhar. Among the cultivars tested, Kolakhar prepared from Bhimkal (BB) was found to exhibit the highest quality, based on its mineral content and pH.

BIOCOMPATIBILITY OF ASTAXANTHIN GEL: CHARACTERIZATION, ANTIOXIDANT, AND SKIN SAFETY ASSESSMENT

Objective: Astaxanthin is a natural compound that possesses a strong antioxidant activity. This substance demonstrates huge potential for both maintenance and therapy. Previous studies suggested this substance could be used as gel therapy for oral cavity ulcers. This research aims to explore the characterization and antioxidant properties of gel formulations or conducted skin safety assessments to evaluate the biocompatibility of astaxanthin gel. Methods: Characterization assessment of astaxanthin gel at concentrations of 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, and 5%, measuring material viscosity, pH, homogeneity, spreadability, adhesiveness, and organoleptic qualities. Antioxidant assessment was carried out in vitro using the DPPH technique by observing the value of antioxidant inhibition (IC50). The acute skin sensitivity and irritation tests were performed in vivo, and the effects were for 14 days. The result of observing clinical changes and the death of rats were noted. The irritation test is observed from the redness on the skin and scored using the Draize-FHSA scoring system and primary irritation index (PII). Results: Astaxanthin gel 0.1%, 0.5%,1%, and 5% have a viscosity value of 3250-3500, pH 7.7-7.85, homogeneous, with spreadability of 3.1-3.5 cm. Astaxanthin gel 1% has the maximum viscosity, pH range, and spreadability with adhesion duration is 3 min and 7 seconds. The IC50 test showed a value of&lt;50 ppm. The gel exhibits no alterations in the skin, fur, eyes, or behavior of rats. The redness and edema score results in all groups are zero, indicating no irritation. Conclusion: The outcomes of this experiment show that 1% astaxanthin gel has the highest antioxidant impact compared to other concentrations. The acute skin toxicity and irritation tests revealed that this gel is acceptable in all concentrations.