Strong Free Radical Scavenging Research Articles

Regulation mechanisms of flavonoids biosynthesis of Hancheng Dahongpao peels (Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim) at different development stages by integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics analysis

BackgroundFlavonoids have strong free radical scavenging and antioxidant capacity. The high abundance of flavonoids in Chinese prickly ash peels have many benefits to human health. In this study, ‘Hancheng Dahongpao’, a main cultivar, was taken as materials to investigate the flavonoids biosynthesis mechanism of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim at three key development stages by integration of metabolomics and transcriptomics analysis.ResultsA total of 19 differentially accumulated metabolites were identified, the key flavonoids compounds were kaempferol, quercetin and their glycoside derivatives, and two major anthocyanins (peonidin O-hexoside and peonidin 3-O-glucoside). 5 gene networks/modules including 15 important candidate genes were identified, which was highly correlated with flavonoids. Among these genes, ZM-163828 and ZM-184209 were strongly correlated with kaempferol and quercetin, and ZM-125833 and ZM-97481 were controlled the anthocyanins biosynthesis. Moreover, it was shown that MYB-ZM1, MYB-ZM3, MYB-ZM5, MYB-ZM6 and MYB-ZM7 coordinately controlled flavonoids accumulation through regulating the structural genes.ConclusionsGenerally, this study systematically revealed the flavonoids metabolic pathways and candidate genes involved in flavonoids biosynthesis and laid a foundation for the potential targets for the breeding of new valuable Chinese prickly ash cultivars.

Bifidobacterium infantis strain YLGB-1496 possesses excellent antioxidant and skin barrier-enhancing efficacy in vitro.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a recurring allergic skin disease that has a high incidence. Orally applied Bifidobacteria ameliorate signs of irritated skin and enhance the skin barrier. The present study investigated the safety and efficacy of a topically used cell-free culture supernatant (CFS) from a Bifidobacterium infantis strain using in vitro evaluation methods. The results showed that CFS had strong free radical scavenging activity on DPPH, ABTS, ·OH and O2 -radicals. CFS treatment fundamentally reduced the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents and improved the activities of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD and GSH-Px) in H2 O2 -treated HaCaT cells. Notably, the upregulation of skin physical barrier gene (FLG, LOR, IVL, AQP3 and TGM1) expression and skin antimicrobial peptide gene (CAMP, hBD-2 and hBD-3) expression by CFS might contribute to skin barrier resistance. CFS was non-irritating to the skin and eyes. CFS from the Bifidobacterium infantis strain had strong antioxidant properties on the skin and strengthened skin barrier function, and it was safe for topical use.

Comparison in Content of Total Polyphenol, Flavonoid, and Antioxidant Capacity from Different Organs and Extruded Condition of Moringa oleifera Lam

Recently, interest in exploring phytochemicals with health benefits has grown significantly. In this research, we aimed to develop the processing profile and functionality of Moringa oleifera Lam. Here, we implemented biopolymer-mediated extrudate formulations of M. oleifera (leaves, seed, and husk) in order to enhance the phenolic, flavonoid, and antioxidant capacity. The formulation-1 (F1) was prepared for leaves, seed, and husk using biopolymers (10% w/w), namely: whey protein isolate (10% w/w) and lecithin (5% w/w) with vitamin E (2% w/w). The formulation-2 (F2) was composed of lecithin (5% w/w) with ascorbyl palmitate (10% w/w) and vitamin E (2% w/w), processed by hot-melt extrusion (HME). It was observed that the total phenol and flavonoid contents were persistent in the lecithin-mediated F2 formulation of leaves, seed, and husk. Likewise, antioxidant capacity was significantly stayed in the F2 formulation of all organs, compared to the extrudate and control. The IC50 values revealed that the leaves of the F2 formulation showed strong free radical scavenging capacity compared to the F2 formulation of seed and husk. It was concluded that the F2 formulation could be used in the different parts of M. oleifera processing to boost functionality.

Sustainable Use of Greek Herbs By-Products, as an Alternative Source of Biologically Active Ingredients for Innovative Products.

The processing of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) results in the production of a significant amount of plant by-products; herbal material of inferior quality and/or unusable plant parts that are not commercially exploitable. An extensive study of Greek native species was performed toward the production of innovative bioactive products using as raw materials the by-products obtained from the processing of cultivated MAPs. Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum (oregano), Sideritis scardica (Greek mountain tea), Thymus vulgaris (thyme), and Matricaria recutita (chamomile) were selected due to their wide use for the preparation of beverages and culinary purposes. The determination of the percentage of the post-harvest processing by-products was performed for a 3 years period (2018–2020). Results showed that by-products derived from the above-mentioned species' processing constitute 64% (thyme), 54% (oregano), 37% (Greek mountain tea), and 24% (chamomile) of the total processed mass. To value the by-products as a potent source of bioactive ingredients, superior and inferior quality herbal material of the aforementioned plant species were extracted by an ultrasonic assisted extraction method. Hydroalcoholic extracts were chemically investigated using high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) techniques. In addition, their free radical scavenging activity and total phenolic content (TPC) were estimated. Based on the results, herbs by-products revealed similar chemical content to the superior herbal material by the means of HPTLC and LC-MS analysis. In addition, strong free radical scavenging related to a high phenolic content was detected in the case of thyme, oregano, and Greek mountain tea. Moreover, the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses of the essential oils (EOs) of oregano and thyme by-products revealed the presence of carvacrol, thymol, γ-terpinene, and p-cymene among the major constituents. Finally, the LC-MS analyses of aqueous extracts of Greek mountain tea and chamomile by-products led to the identification of several bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenylpropanoids. Overall, the presence of bioactive constituents in by-products, such as terpenes, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids underly their potent use as food antimicrobial and antioxidant additives, in the preparation of high added-value products, such as enriched aromatic edible oils, and innovative herbal teas, such as instant beverages.

Protective Effect of Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum) Extract against UV- and AGEs-Induced Skin Aging via Alleviating Oxidative Stress and Collagen Degradation.

Skin aging is a complex process involving photoaging and glycation stress, which share some fundamental pathways and have common mediators. They can cause skin damage and collagen degradation by inducing oxidative stress and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Chenopodium formosanum (CF), also known as Djulis, is a traditional cereal in Taiwan. This study investigated the protection mechanisms of CF extract against ultraviolet (UV) radiation and advanced glycation end products (AGEs)-induced stress. The results indicated that CF extract had strong antioxidant and free radical scavenging effects. It could reduce UV-induced intracellular ROS generation and initiate the antioxidant defense system by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling pathway in human skin fibroblasts. CF extract modulated mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and transformed growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways to alleviate oxidative stress-induced skin aging. Moreover, the results revealed that CF extract not only promoted collagen synthesis but also improved aging-induced collagen degradation. CF extract attenuated AGEs-induced ROS production and the upregulation of receptor for AGEs (RAGE). The overall results suggest that CF extract provides an effective anti-aging strategy by preventing skin damage from oxidative stress and collagen loss with potent antioxidant, anti-photoaging, and antiglycation activities.

Melatonin ameliorates chronic copper-induced lung injury.

Copper (Cu) is an important trace element required for several biological processes. The use of copper is increasing gradually in several applications. Previous studies suggest that excess levels of copper are attributed to induce oxidative stress and inflammation, mediating tissue damage. Inline, melatonin the hormone of darkness has been reported to exhibit various therapeutic effects including strong free radical scavenging properties and anti-inflammatory effects. However, its effects against pulmonary injury promoted by copper are not explored and remain unclear so far. Therefore, the present study was aimed to investigate the protective effect of melatonin against copper-induced lung damage. Female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to 250 ppm of copper in drinking water for 16 weeks and treated with melatonin (i.p.) 5 and 10 mg/kg from the week (13–16th). The extent of tissue damage was assessed by tissue oxidative stress parameters, metal estimation and histological analysis. Copper-challenged rats showed altered oxidative stress variables. In addition, metal analysis revealed increased copper accumulation in the lungs and histological staining results further indicated severe tissue injury and inflammatory cell infiltration in copper-exposed rats. To this side, treatment with melatonin showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities evidenced by reduced oxidative stress, tissue inflammation and collagen deposition as compared to copper-exposed animals. Moreover, spectral findings suggested melatonin treatment modulated the frequency sift, as compared to copper-challenged animals. Altogether, the present results suggest that melatonin might play a potential role in preventing copper-induced lung aberrations via inhibiting the ROS-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation.

Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Cellulase Extraction from Nymphaea hybrid Flower and Biological Activities: Antioxidant Activity, Protective Effect against ROS Oxidative Damage in HaCaT Cells and Inhibition of Melanin Production in B16 Cells.

In this study, ultrasonic-assisted cellulase extraction (UCE) was applied to extract flavonoids and polyphenols from the Nymphaea hybrid flower. The extraction conditions were optimized using the response surface method (RSM) coupled with a Box-Behnken design. The crude extract of Nymphaea hybrid (NHE) was further purified using AB-8 macroporous resins, and the purified extract (NHEP) was characterized by FTIR and HPLC. In vitro activity determination by chemical method showed that NHEP displayed strong free radical scavenging abilities against the DPPH and ABTS radicals, good reduction power, and hyaluronidase inhibition. The cell viability by CCK-8 assays showed that NHEP had no significant cytotoxicity for B16 and HaCaT cells when the concentration was below 100 μg/mL and 120 μg/mL, respectively. NHEP with a concentration of 20–160 μg/mL can more effectively reduce the ROS level in H2O2 damaged HaCaT cells compared with 10 μg/mL of VC. The 40 μg/mL of NHEP had similar activity against intracellular melanin production in the B16 melanoma cells compared with 20 μg/mL Kojic acid. Good activities of antioxidation, whitening and protective effect against H2O2-induced oxidative damage promote the potential for NHEP as a functional raw material in the field of cosmetics and medicine.

Evaluations of Morpho-Physiological Variances in Soybean Varieties under Low Water Conditions

This study used pot experiments with a completely randomized design (CRD) in triplicates to evaluate physiological and morphological attributes used for the characterization of drought stress tolerance in six soybean varieties (Knap, Mopani, LS677, LS678, Pan1564, and Sonop). Growth and physiological parameters analyzed in this study, included plant height, number of flowers, number of pods, seed number per pod, leaf surface area (LSA), grain yield, and total phenolics, flavonoids, ureides as well as antioxidant activity. Low water conditions caused varied negative effects depending on the level of stress on both morphological and physiological responses of the plants. Enhanced secondary products (ureides, total phenolic, and flavonoid content) were observed in plants subjected to severe water stress, in addition to reduced photosynthetic components and percentage grain yields. However, soybean variety Sonop, LS677, and LS678 consecutively, induced high secondary metabolite accumulations and antioxidant activity possibly preventing the occurrence of excessive oxidative stress damage caused by water shortage. The performance of LS varieties, Knap and Sonop were more prominent than Mopani and Pan1564. Results showed potential tolerance to stress in Sonop, LS678 and LS677, attributed to the strong free radical scavenging activity and maintenance of photosynthetic pigments used to achieve sufficient growth balance in plants.

Hierarchically multifunctional bioactive nanoglass for integrated tumor/infection therapy and impaired wound repair

The complex wound repair induced by tumor surgery and infection is still the clinical challenge due to the subsequent tumor recurrence and serious inflammation. Herein, we develop a bioactive Si-Ca-Sr glass-based therapy-regeneration-enabled nanohybrids (BSr@PPE) with hierarchical versatility for overcoming the challenges of tumor and infection-impaired wound repair. BSr@PPE showed a representative concentration-dependent photothermal effect, strong free radical scavenging and antibacterial ability, as well as good UV-shielding properties and high biocompatibility. BSr@PPE could efficiently kill tumor cells through the photothermal effect, show the robust antibacterial activity against normal and multi-drug resistant bacteria and enhance the fibroblasts migration in vitro. In vivo animal experiments suggested that BSr@PPE could effectively promote epithelial reconstruction, collagen deposition and angiogenesis in normal wounds, reduce inflammation and enhance repair in multi-drug bacterial infected wounds, accelerate the tumor-impaired wound through inhibit the tumor cells. This work may provide a new strategy and multifunctional bioactive material for treating the tissue repair and regeneration under the multi-pathological environments.

Radical Scavenging Activity, Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay and HPLC Analysis of Methanol Extracts of Secamone afzelii

Background: Medicinal plants produce several phytochemicals with strong free radical scavenging activities. Objectives: To evaluate radical scavenging activity, brine shrimp toxicity and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of the methanol extracts of Secamone afzelii (SA) leaves and Ceiba pentandra (CP) stem-bark.Materials and methods: The leaves of SA and CP stem-bark were extracted with methanol and the total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts was determined and expressed as gallic acid equivalents (GAE). The extracts were evaluated for their nitric oxide scavenging activity, antioxidant activity using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, toxicity using brine shrimp lethality assay (BSLA) and phytochemical constituents using HPLC. Results: The TPC in SA extract was 21.26±1.29 while that of CP extract was 95.31±8.71 mg GAE. The SA and CP extracts showed antioxidant activity by DPPH with IC50 of 97.60 and 22.35 μg/mL as compared to ascorbic acid (1.4±0.34) and gallic acid (2.8±0.78) Similarly, the extracts showed nitric oxide scavenging activity of 22.50±1.3 and 5.40±0.3 µg/mL respectively compared to gallic acid with IC50 value of 1.1±0.1 µg/mL. In BSLA, SA extract had LC50 value of >1000 μg/mL while CP extract and Cyclophosphamide (standard) had LC50 value of <1000 μg/mL. HPLC analysis suggested that 8-β-L-arabinofuranosyl-6-β-D-glucopyranosylapigenin, kaempferol-3-0-glucoside, kaempferol-3-O-(6''-malonyl-glucoside), kampferol-3-O-rhamnoglucoside and palitantin were the major components in SA extract while the major components in CP extract were lateritin/beauvericin, procyanidin B2, pavetannin, (-)-catechin and genistein-8-C-glucoside .Conclusion: The results demonstrate the free radical scavenging properties of SA and CP extracts which could be attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds.

Phyto-chemistry and therapeutic potential of litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.): An age-old ingredient in traditional medicine

The litchi ( Litchi chinensis sonn.), long been used in traditional medicine, has been endowed by nature with myriad biological properties that makes it a potential crop for healing various sufferings of mankind. Different bioactive compounds like flavonoids and anthocyanins have been reported from pulp as well as the non-edible tissues such as pericarp, seed, flowers and leaves which possess strong free radical scavenging activities and can be used as anti-inflammation, anti-oxidant and anti-cancerous agents. Potential role of litchi seed extracts in preventing type 2 diabetes has been suggested in recent studies. Some components identified from litchi seeds are claimed to possess anti-cancer properties mainly against lung, liver, pulmonary and cervical cancer. Leaf extracts of litchi possess significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-pyretic activities. An innovative formulation, oligonol-L, derived from fruits of litchi is reported to possess chemo-preventive and chemo-protective potential against photo-injuries such as skin photo-ageing and cancer. Thus, it could be implied that litchi tree is studded with more blissful properties than hitherto conceded. However, an intensive research is paramount to unveil the exact mechanism of action of the active components in order to exploit the preventive and therapeutic potentials of this crop. The main objective of this review is to provide comprehensive information on the pharmacological activities of litchi reported till date and suggest future investigations required to exploit the neutraceutical properties of this potential plant.

Characterization of the physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, and antiproliferative activity of natural melanin from S. reiliana

This study aimed to characterize the physicochemical properties and stability of L-25 melanin extracted from Sporisorium reilianum (S. reiliana). The results showed that the maximum absorption wavelength of melanin was 215 nm. Reducing agents, heat, light, microwaving, oxidants, and common food additives did not affect the melanin. Additionally, it has a good metal stability except Mn2+. The IR spectra revealed the presence of O–H, N–H, C=O, and C=C bonds as well as carboxyl, alcohol hydroxyl, and phenolic hydroxyl groups and a pyran ring. L-25 melanin could be defined as DL-hydroxy phenylalanine (DOPA)-melanin. The antioxidant and antiproliferative were also measured. The melanin has a specific stability and high antioxidant activity, including a strong DPPH free radical scavenging ability, and protected damaged HepG2 cells by reducing reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and lactate dehydrogenase content. In conclusion, S. reilianum represents a novel source of melanin, that could be applied to health food or food additives. Our results show that melanin from S. reilianum is a natural pigment with good stability that has a great prospect of development and application, providing a theoretical basis and methods for its further processing and development as a functional food.

Membrane diafiltration for enhanced purification of biologically active compounds from goji berries extracts

• The recovery of phenolic compounds from aqueous goji berries extract was investigated. • Three tight ultrafiltration membranes with different cut-off (1, 2.5 and 3.5 kDa) were studied. • Diafiltration was implemented to improve the separation of phenolic compounds from sugars. • Membrane performance was evaluated in terms of productivity and selectivity towards target compounds. • All selected membranes allowed high recovery of phenolic compounds into the retentate. Goji berries represent a valuable source of phenolic compounds with a strong antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity combined to huge quantities of small sugars. This study was aimed at evaluating the potential of three tight ultrafiltration (UF) membranes with molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) from 1.0 to 3.5 kDa in the fractionation of phenolic compounds from sugars in the aqueous extract of dried goji berries. The aqueous extract produced in optimized conditions of water-to-solid ratio and temperature (6.66 mL/g and 65 °C, respectively) was preliminarily clarified by UF in order to remove suspended solids and colloidal particles. A membrane diafiltration (DF) process was developed in order to fractionate phenolic compounds from sugars with selected UF membranes from the clarified extract. The membrane performance was evaluated in terms of productivity and selectivity towards target compounds. All selected membranes allowed high recovery (more than 80%) of phenolic compounds into the retentate. On the other hand, the yield of carbohydrates increased in the permeate by increasing the diafiltration volume. Among the selected membranes, the 2.5 kDa membrane allowed to reduce the concentration of total carbohydrates from 26.5 up to 2.2 g glucose/L (a reduction of 91.7%) in a diafiltration/batch concentration process producing a concentrated extract enriched in phenolic compounds of interest for pharmaceutical or nutraceutical applications.

Meso-Dihydroguaiaretic Acid Ameliorates Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome through Inhibiting Neutrophilic Inflammation and Scavenging Free Radical.

The pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is very complex. Patients with ARDS still suffer high mortality rates. Infiltration and activation of neutrophils in lungs are critical pathogenic factors in ARDS. In this study, we demonstrate that meso-dihydroguaiaretic acid (MDGA), a natural lignan, inhibits inflammatory responses in human neutrophils and ameliorates ARDS in mice. MDGA inhibited superoxide anion generation and elastase release in various G-protein coupled receptor agonists-induced human neutrophils. However, MDGA did not alter superoxide anion generation and elastase activity in cell-free systems. These results suggest that the anti-inflammatory effects of MDGA are mediated by regulating cellular signals in human neutrophils. In consistent with this, MDGA suppressed phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and c-Jun N-terminal kinase in activated human neutrophils. Moreover, MDGA inhibited CD11b expression and adhesion in activated human neutrophils. Interestingly, MDGA reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation but not superoxide anion generation in protein kinase C (PKC) activator-induced human neutrophils, suggesting that MDGA may also have ROS scavenging ability. Indeed, MDGA showed strong free radical scavenging activity in cell-free assays. Significantly, MDGA suppressed PKC-induced neutrophil extracellular trap formation. Additionally, treatment of MDGA attenuated neutrophil infiltration and lung damage on lipopolysaccharide-induced ARDS in mice. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that MDGA has anti-neutrophilic inflammatory effects and free-radical scavenging activity. We also suggest that MDGA has potential to serve as a lead for developing new therapeutics to treat ARDS.

Characterization and antioxidant activities of polysaccharide extracted from Benincasa hispida var. chieh-qua How

The water-soluble polysaccharide (BHCP) was isolated from the hot aqueous extract of Chieh qua (Benincasa hispida var. chieh-qua How) fruit. The polysaccharide was found to contain D-galactose and D-glucose in a molar ratio of 2.59:1 with both α- and β-glycosidic bond. The strong free radicals scavenging activity on DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radicals of the BHCP was demonstrated, and showing the BHCP from Chieh qua has potential application value on the functional food.

Extraction, Isolation and Characterization by HPLC-ESI-MS and Evaluating Chemical Constituents of Hydroalcoholic Extracts of the Invasive Weed Cleome viscosa L.

The aim of this study was to extract, identify and isolate the chemical constituents of the root and leaves of Cleome viscosa by liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS). The antioxidant activity and content of associated secondary metabolites in the extracts from different parts of the plant were also measured. The free radical scavenging activity of the methanol extracts of different parts of C viscosa was determined using DPPH assays. A wide range of polar and non- polar compounds were characterized by LC-ESI-MS. Based on the obtained results, 22 and 21 compounds were characterized in the extracts of leaf and root of C viscosa, respectively. Among these compounds, cleomeolide and 57,4′.trihydroxy-6,3.5-trimethoxyflavone, in the leaf extract, and nevirapine and vincetoxicoside A, in the root extract, were considered as main compounds. Phytochemical analysis also showed that the content of bioactive compounds varied remarkably in the extract of different parts of C viscosa. The leaf ethanol extract contained higher amounts of secondary metabolites, namely total phenols and flavonoids. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was also dependent on the plant parts, which was significantly correlated with the content of bioactive compounds studied. A strong free radical scavenging activity was observed for the methanol extract of the leaf (50.3%), followed by the flower (35.2%). In general, this study confirmed a wide range of compounds in different parts of the invasive weed C viscosa, especially in the leaf, with a high free radical scavenging activity.

Melatonin and calpeptin synergistically protect against post-reperfusion injury in a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion stroke model

Cerebral ischemia induces oxidative injury and increases the intracellular calcium ion concentration to activate several calcium-dependent proteases such as calpains. Calpain activation leads to various necrotic and apoptotic processes. Calpeptin is a potent, cell-permeable calpain inhibitor. As a strong antioxidant and free radical scavenger, melatonin shows beneficial effect in rodent models of focal cerebral ischemia when given prior to ischemia or reperfusion. This study was focused on the neuroprotective effects of melatonin and/or calpeptin given after onset of reperfusion. For this purpose, right-sided middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 90 minutes followed by 24 or 72 hours of reperfusion was performed in male Sprague Dawley rats, then, melatonin 50 or 150 µg/kg, calpeptin 10, 15 or 50 µg/kg or a combination of melatonin 50 µg/kg plus calpeptin 15 or 50 µg/kg were injected via an intracerebroventricular route at 15 minutes after onset of reperfusion. Melatonin or calpeptin tended to reduce the relative infarct volume and significantly decreased the neurological deficit at 24 hours. The combination achieved a greater protection than each of them alone. Melatonin, calpeptin or the combination all decreased Fluoro-Jade B (FJB)+ degenerative neurons and cleaved/total caspase-3 ratio at 24 hours. These treatments did not significantly impact the density of surviving neurons and ED-1+ macrophage/activated microglia. At the 72-hour-reperfusion, melatonin or the combination decreased the relative infarct volume and neurological deficit. Nevertheless, only the combination reduced FJB+ degenerating neurons at 72 hours. In conclusion, a combination of melatonin and calpeptin exerted synergistic protection against post-reperfusion injury in a rat MCAO stroke model.

Profiling of Polyphenolic Compounds of Leontopodium alpinum Cass Callus Cultures Using UPLC/IM-HRMS and Screening of In Vitro Effects.

Leontopodium alpinum Cass. (edelweiss) is recognized as a frequent constituent of anti-aging skin care products, providing increased antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defense. Considering the growing demand and the protected status of edelweiss in many countries, alternative methods of production have been developed, one of them being callus culturing. This study reports the phytochemical composition of a methanolic extract of L. alpinum callus cultures, characterized by liquid chromatography coupled to ion-mobility high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC/IM-HRMS). The methanolic extract exhibited strong free radical scavenging activity (122.19 ± 7.28 mg AAE/g dw), while the quantitative evaluation revealed that four major constituents (phenylpropanoid derivatives) represent 57.13% (m/m) of the extract. Consequently, a screening of antiproliferative effects was performed on ten cancer cell lines, representative of prostate, colon, lung and breast cancer, showing inhibition of colony formation in all cases. These results provide a comprehensive phytochemical characterization of L. alpinum callus cultures using advanced IM-HRMS, while the in vitro explorations confirmed the potent antioxidant properties of edelweiss which are worth exploring further in cancer prevention.

In vitro and in silico studies of fluorinated 2,3-disubstituted thiazolidinone-pyrazoles as potential α-amylase inhibitors and antioxidant agents.

As part of our effort to identify potent α-amylase inhibitors, in the present study, a novel series of fluorinated thiazolidinone-pyrazole hybrid molecules were prepared by the condensation of 3-(aryl/benzyloxyaryl)-pyrazole-4-carbaldehydes with fluorinated 2,3-disubstituted thiazolidin-4-ones. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by infrared, 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13 C NMR, and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry data. All the compounds were screened for their α-amylase inhibitory and free radical scavenging activities by DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS methods. Among the tested compounds, compound 8g emerged as a promising α-amylase inhibitor with IC50 = 0.76 ± 1.23 µM, and it was found to be more potent than the standard drug acarbose (IC50 = 0.86 ± 0.81 μM). Compounds 8b and 8g showed strong free radical scavenging activity compared to the standard butylated hydroxyl anisole. The kinetic study of compound 8g revealed the reversible, classical competitive inhibition mode on the α-amylase enzyme. Molecular docking and dynamic simulations studies were performed for the most potent compound 8g, which displayed remarkable hydrogen bonding with the α-amylase protein (PDB ID: 1DHK).

A Multifaceted Fungus Pig’s Ears: Gomphus clavatus Gray

Gomphus clavatus, commonly known as pig’s ears, is a species of fungi in the genus Gomphus, family Gomphaceae native to Eurasia and North America. Pig’s ear derives its name from the funnel-shaped and folded fruiting body, which resembles a pig’s ear in shape and texture. Gomphus clavatus mushrooms are edible; these are used as soup, sauce and baking dishes. Gomphus clavatus Gray is not only used as a nutritious food but also might be an important source of biologically active compounds with potential additional medical value. In recent research, the fruit bodies of Gomphus clavatus Gray were collected from the wild. A novel heteropolysaccharide, namely ‘GCG-1’, from the fruit bodies of Gomphus clavatus Gray was isolated through Sephadex G-200 and DEAEcellulose columns. Fungal polysaccharide is a type of active organic compound that is composed of long chains of monosaccharide units bound together by glycosidic linkages. Recently, an increasing number of fungal polysaccharides have been identified to show a variety of biological activities, including antitumor and antioxidant properties. Antioxidation test in GCG-1 in vitro showed that it has strong free radical scavenging activity. It suggests that Gomphus clavatus can be considered as a medicinal food with antioxidant activities.