Total Phenolic Content Assays Research Articles

Polydopamine Coating of Graphitic Carbon Nitride, g-C3N4, Improves Biomedical Application.

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is an intriguing nanomaterial that exhibits photoconductive fluorescence properties under UV-visible light. Dopamine (DA) coating of g-C3N4 prepared from melamine was accomplished via self-polymerization of DA as polydopamine (PDA). The g-C3N4 was coated with PDA 1, 3, and 5 times repeatedly as (PDA@g-C3N4) in tris buffer at pH 8.5. As the number of PDA coatings was increased on g-C3N4, the peak intensity at 1512 cm-1 for N-H bending increased. In addition, the increased weight loss values of PDA@g-C3N4 structures at 600 °C from TGA thermograms confirmed that the coating was accomplished. The band gap of g-C3N4, 2.72 eV, was reduced to 0.87 eV after five coatings with PDA. A pristine g-C3N4 was found to have an isoelectric point (IEP) of 4.0, whereas the isoelectric points of 1PDA@g-C3N4 and 3PDA@g-C3N4 are close to each other at 3.94 and 3.91, respectively. On the other hand, the IEP of 5PDA@g-C3N4 was determined at pH 5.75 assuming complete coating with g-C3N4. The biocompatibility of g-C3N4 and PDA@g-C3N4 against L929 fibroblast cell lines revealed that all PDA@g-C3N4 coatings were found to be biocompatible up to a 1000 mg/mL concentration, establishing that PDA coatings did not adversely affect the biocompatibility of the composite materials. In addition, PDA@g-C3N4 was screened for antioxidant potential via total phenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content assays and it was found that PDA@g-C3N4 has recognizable TPC values and increased linearly with an increased number of PDA coatings. Furthermore, blood compatibility of pristine g-C3N4 is enhanced considerably upon PDA coating, affirmed by hemolysis and the blood clotting index%. Additionally, α-glucosidase inhibitory properties of PDA@g-C3N4 structures revealed that 67.6 + 9.8% of this enzyme was evenly inhibited by 3PDA@g-C3N4 structure.

Total phenolic content of microwaved, pan-heated and stewed, herbs and spices

Culinary herbs and spices help improve food flavour in cuisine all over the globe and possess some of the richest sources of polyphenols in edible plant foods which are linked to human health benefits. Food processing can affect these constituents and therefore may impact the health benefits these plants may confer. This study aimed to assess the impact of 3 commonly used domestic cooking methods on the total phenolic content, assessed via the total phenolic content (TPC) assay, on 15 culinary herbs and 12 spices, fresh and dried (50 samples total). Herbs and spices uncooked (aqueous extracts), microwaved with water (4 min), pan-heated without medium in a non-stick pan (5, 10, 15 and 20 min) and stewed with water (30, 60 and 120 min) were tested (n = 3) for TPC, expressed in gallic acid equivalent (GAE). TPC for uncooked plants were ranked from very low (below 50 GAE mg/100g) to very high (over 4000 GAE mg/100g). Dried herbs and spices were significantly higher in TPC than their fresh counterparts (P < 0.01). Despite exceptions to the general trend, overall microwaving increased the TPC by 18% compared to uncooked extracts (P < 0.01). Pan-heating in a non-stick pan caused a significant decrease in TPC, averaging 14% (p < 0.01), similar between the 4 lengths of times. Stewing significantly increased the TPC (p < 0.01) by 26% at 30 min, 39% at 60 min and 46% at 120 min. Therefore, polyphenol bioaccessibility in culinary herbs and spices decreased with dry pan-heating but increased with microwaving and stewing with water.

Antioxidant activity of jambu bol [Syzygium malaccense (L.) Merr. and Perry] leaf extract

Jambu bol [Syzygium malaccense (L.) Merr. and Perry] is well known to be used in folk medicine and reports are proving the biological activity of each part of this plant. This study aimed to determine the antioxidant activity of S. malaccense L. leaf extract. The methods used in this study were total phenolic content (TPC) assay, 2,2-Diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•) radical scavenging activity assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The results showed that the extract contained TPC of 44.10±0.06 mg GAE/g. The IC50 scavenging activities of DPPH and ABTS• were 0.0334 mg of Ascorbic acid E/g and 0.1352 mg of TE/g, respectively, while the antioxidant reducing power was 1013.50±0.07 mM Fe2+ / g. In conclusion, S. malaccense L. leaf extract was found to possess antioxidant activity, and this extract has potential to be developed to be used in food as a natural antioxidant agent.

Optimization of Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction of Antioxidants in Apple Pomace (var. Belorusskoje malinovoje) Using Response Surface Methodology: Scope and Opportunity to Develop as a Potential Feed Supplement or Feed Ingredient

Apple pomace represents an underexploited source of bioactive compounds. This study examines the optimization of total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant extraction yield of apple pomace (variety: Belorusskoje malinovoje) using response surface methodology. The green extraction technique used was ultrasound-assisted extraction, and it was compared with conventional solvent extraction. The impact of extraction time and amplitude of ultrasound-assisted extraction on the yield of polyphenols and antioxidants has been evaluated. Total phenolic content was determined using an established TPC assay. The antioxidant activity of the apple pomace was determined using established assays 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•+). Furthermore, the potential of apple pomace as a feed material was explored by assessing its nutritional composition, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acid content. The extraction of antioxidants and phenolic compounds was efficiently optimized using RSM. The optimal conditions for TPC and DPPH• analyses were achieved with an extraction time of 17.5 min and an ultrasound-assisted extraction amplitude of 20%. Optimal conditions for ABTS•+ were 5 min extraction time and 20% amplitude. Conventional and ultrasound-assisted extraction methods yielded comparable results. Moreover, apple pomace exhibits potential as a feed ingredient despite its modest protein content. This study contributes to the utilization of apple pomace by providing additional information on its antioxidant content and nutritional composition, thus contributing to its sustainable utilization in various industries, especially the livestock feed sector.

Phytochemicals, antioxidant and antibacterial activity of crude extract of Sargassum polycystum collected from Bangladesh

Marine seaweed species have been extensively studied in recent decades due to their potential biological activities, such as antioxidant and antibacterial characteristics. This study investigates the phytochemicals, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of Sargassum polycystum extracts collected from Bangladesh and crude extracts were prepared using methanol, ethanol, and water as extraction solvents. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of terpenoids, saponins, phlobatannins, and cardiac glycosides. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) identified functional groups, including phenols, carboxylic acids, ketones, ethers, aromatics, alkanes, and ethers. The methanol extract exhibited the highest TPC (95.34 ± 1.21 mg of GAE/g) and TFC (51.48 ± 0.92 mg of QE/g). Methanol extracts displayed superior antioxidant activity in the Phosphomolybdenum assay (1.96 ± 0.08), DPPH assay (81.33 ± 5.60%, IC50 = 1.17 mg/mL), ABTS assay (71.65 ± 4.10%, IC50 = 2.54 mg/mL), and Nitric oxide scavenging assay (67.64 ± 4.10%, IC50 = 3.81 mg/mL). Ethanol extract demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (16.50 ± 0.13 mm), while the methanol extract excelled against Salmonella typhimurium (14.6 ± 0.18 mm) at 7 mg/mL dosage. A positive correlation was found among TPC, TFC, and different antioxidant assays.

Total phenolic contents, cytotoxic, free radicals, porcine pancreatic α-amylase, and lipase suppressant activities of Artemisia dracunculus plant from Palestine.

Artemisia dracunculus: L. (A. dracunculus) is a popular vegetable and spice cultivated across many Middle Eastern countries. The herb's aqueous extract has significant folkloric medicinal importance for treating various disorders. Hence, the present investigation aimed to investigate A. dracunculus hydrophilic extract phytochemical constituents and pleiotropic biological potentials, as no previous studies have investigated the antilipase and anti-α-amylase effects of the A. dracunculus plant. Total phenol content and phytochemical screening assays were performed utilizing standard analytical methods. While the α-amylase inhibition, free radical-scavenging, antilipase, and cytotoxic activities were determined using dinitrosalicylic acid (DNSA), DPPH, p-nitrophenyl butyrate (PNPB), and MTS assays, respectively. The standard phytochemical analysis of A. dracunculus aqueous extract shows that this extract contains only a phenolic group. The total phenol content was 0.146 ± 0.012mg GAE/g of the plant dry extract. The A. dracunculus aqueous extract exhibited potent DPPH free radical inhibitory (IC50 dose of 10.71 ± 0.01μg/mL) and anti-lipase activities (IC50 dose of 60.25 ± 0.33μg/mL) compared with Trolox (IC50 = 5.7 ± 0.92μg/mL) and Orlistat (IC50 = 12.3 ± 0.35μg/mL), respectively. However, it showed a weak anti-α-amylase effect (IC50 value > 1,000μg/mL) compared with Acarbose (IC50 = 28.18 ± 1.27μg/mL). A. dracunculus has a cytotoxic effect against the HeLa cancer cell line compared with the chemotherapeutic agent Doxorubicin. The extract has the same percent of inhibition as Doxorubicin (99.9%) at 10mg/mL. Overall, these results pointed out for the first time the importance of considering A. dracunculus effects as a favorite candidate for preventing and treating metabolic disorders. Also, our results confirm the findings of previous reports on the role of A. dracunculus in the management of cancer and disorders resulting from the accumulation of harmful free radicals. On the contrary, the current study concluded that the antidiabetic role of A. dracunculus could be minimal. Further in-depth investigations are urgently warranted to explore the importance of A. dracunculus in pharmaceutical production.

Exploring antioxidative, cytotoxic and neuropharmacological insights into Bixa orellana leaves: Experimental and in silico approaches

Background StudyThe aim of this research was to examine possible antioxidant, cytotoxic and neurological activity of methanol and n-hexane extracts of Bixa orellana leaves. Additionally, we aimed to identify potential lead compounds through in-silico analysis. MethodsIn-vitro antioxidative properties were investigated through different assays, including: total phenolic content assay (TPC), total flavonoid content assay (TFC), DPPH free radical scavenging assay and reducing power assay. Also, the cytotoxic effect of the samples was assessed using the brine shrimp lethality test. In addition, anxiolytic, locomotor, and CNS depressant activities were assessed utilizing various established methods. Moreover, reported compounds were used in the in silico study to explore the best-fit phytoconstituents against gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABAA) receptor. ResultsMBOL displayed substantial antioxidative activities in various established assays compared to NBOL. In brine shrimp lethality bioassay, both MBOL and NBOL revealed cytotoxic activity in a concentration-dependent approach. Again, in Elevated Plus Maze test, 200 and 400 mg/kg of NBOL and MBOL demonstrated significant anxiolytic activities evident from time spent in open arms. In addition, maximum number of head dipping was demonstrated by MBOL at 400 mg/kg (53.90 ± 1.16) in Hole Board test. NBOL and MBOL at both doses significantly diminished the magnitude of movements from the 2nd to 5th observation periods in Open Field test. Furthermore, in Hole Cross test, MBOL remarkably dwindled the locomotor activity at 120 min and 180 min (3.60 ± 0.40 and 2.40 ± 0.51) at 400 mg/kg. Finally, in silico analysis revealed 13 compounds as promising leads with strong binding affinity to GABAA receptor along with good pharmacokinetics and toxicity profiles. ConclusionTherefore, the present study's findings advocate the traditional usage of this plant and recommend both MBOL and NBOL as as a potential source of therapeutic candidate for the management of neurological disorders.

Identification of Oxidative-Stress-Reducing Plant Extracts from a Novel Extract Library-Comparative Analysis of Cell-Free and Cell-Based In Vitro Assays to Quantitate Antioxidant Activity.

Numerous underexplored plant species are believed to possess considerable potential in combating oxidative stress and its associated health impacts, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive methodological screening approach to assess their antioxidant capacity. This study investigated 375 plant extracts, utilizing both cell-free and cellular methods to evaluate their antioxidant properties. Target-based antioxidant capacity was evaluated by the total phenolic content (TPC) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Cell-based assays employed the H2DCF-DA probe to measure reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and the Griess assay to quantify nitric oxide (NO) levels in stressed Caco-2 and RAW264.7 cells, respectively. The highest TPC and FRAP values were found in extracts of Origanum vulgare and Fragaria × ananassa leaves. Several plant extracts significantly reduced stress-induced ROS or NO levels by at least 30%. Distinctive selectivity was noted in certain extracts, favoring the significant reduction of NO (e.g., Helianthus tuberosus extract), of ROS (e.g., Prunus domestica subsp. Syriaca extract), or of both (e.g., Fragaria × ananassa leaf extract). A strong correlation between TPC and FRAP values and moderate correlations between the results of the cell-free and cell-based assays were evident. These findings highlight the great antioxidant potential of underexplored plant extracts and the diversity of the underlying mechanisms, emphasizing the importance of a multifaceted approach for a comprehensive assessment.

Neuroprotective Potential of Thunbergia laurifolia Lindl Leaf Extracts Against Beta Amyloid-induced Neurotoxicity: An in vitroModel of Alzheimer’s Disease

Background: Beta-amyloid peptide (Aβ) induces oxidative stress, contributing to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) initiation and progression. This study aims to explore Thunbergia laurifolia ( T. laurifolia) leaf extract’s protective effects on Aβ25–35-induced oxidative stress and cell injury in SH-SY5Y cells and investigate underlying mechanisms. Materials and Methods: SH-SY5Y cells were treated with T. laurifolia leaf extract in the presence or absence of Aβ25–35. After 24 h, neuroprotective effects were assessed using cell viability and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays. Caspase-3/7 activity, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were measured to examine mechanisms. Total flavonoid and phenolic content assays were performed. Results: The findings showed that exposure to Aβ25–35 led to a notable rise in oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y cells, as evidenced by increased levels of ROS. Additionally, Aβ25–35 treatment increased caspase-3/7 activity and LDH release and decreased cell viability. However, T. laurifolia extract effectively suppressed ROS production, attenuated caspase-3/7 activity, and concentration-dependently reduced Aβ25–35-induced neurotoxicity. LDH release decreased, and cell viability increased. SOD and CAT activities also increased after T. laurifolia treatment. The extract had total phenolic and flavonoid contents of 178.5 ± 6.86 and 32.51 ± 1.26 mg/g, respectively. Conclusion: T. laurifolia extract demonstrated neuroprotective effects against Aβ25–35-induced injury in SH-SY5Y cells. These effects were attributed to reduced oxidative stress, elevated SOD and CAT activity, and suppressed caspase-3/7 activity. T. laurifolia extract shows potential as an alternative or therapeutic approach to AD mediated by Aβ. Nevertheless, further research is needed to elucidate the mechanism by which T. laurifolia ameliorates neuronal cell death induced by Aβ25–35.

MICROMERIA MYRTIFOLIA BOISS. &amp; HOHEN’İN BİYOLOJİK AKTİVİTELERİNİN BELİRLENMESİ

Objective: Lamiaceae family has a wide variety of well-known and lesser-known plants with strong medicinal qualities. The genus Micromeria Benth. is a member of this family consisting of herbaceous plants with a variety of significant biological, phytochemical, and ethnobotanical uses. In this study, the biological activities of methanol and ethanol extracts of Micromeria myrtifolia were evaluated. Material and Method: To demonstrate the antioxidant activity DPPH radical scavenging activity and total phenolic content assays were done. The effects of the extracts on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and monoamine oxidase-A were then assessed. Result and Discussion: Methanol extract showed the highest DPPH scavenging activity, at the dose of 10 mg/ml with a value of 96.55%. For the highest concentration that can be applicable, AChE inhibitions for the methanol and ethanol extracts were 25% and 27%, respectively. On the other hand, the inhibitory effects of the ethanol and methanol extracts of the plant on MAO-A were determined; for the ethanol extract IC50 value was found as 32.5876 ± 0.89 g/ml, and for the methanol extract it was found as 34.6544 ± 0.76 g/ml. It can be told that M. myrtifolia can act as a potential antioxidant. With further research and investigation, it is thought that Micromeria myrtifolia could be used as a natural source for the treatment of various neurological diseases.

Seasonal Variations in the Antioxidant and Phytochemical Composition of Five Wild Edible Plants from Paschim Medinipur: Implications for Nutritional Value

Seasonal fluctuations in antioxidant and phytochemical composition of five wild edible plants (WEPs): Amla (Emblica officinalis), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica), Karonda (Carissa spinarum) and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) were investigated in Paschim Medinipur, India. Samples were collected across four seasons: monsoon, post-monsoon, winter, and pre-monsoon. TPC, TFC, and DPPH assays were performed. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profiled key phytochemicals. This study delves into this captivating tango, seeking to: Unravel the seasonal variations in the antioxidant and phytochemical composition of these five WEPs. This exploration encompasses quantifying total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity (DPPH) across four distinct seasons: monsoon, post-monsoon, winter, and pre-monsoon; Decipher the identity and abundance of key phytochemicals within them. By employing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), we aim to unveil the unique chemical tapestry woven in each WEP, revealing the spectrum of phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids that contribute to their nutritional potency; Evaluate the impact of seasonal variations on the overall nutritional value of WEPs. By linking the fluctuations in antioxidants and phytochemicals to the changing seasons, we hope to understand how to optimize the consumption of these precious bioactives, empowering communities to embrace the full nutritional potential of their local flora. TPC, TFC, and DPPH activity varied significantly across seasons (p&lt;0.05) in all WEPs. Highest antioxidant activity was observed in Jamun (Syzygium cumini) during post-monsoon (DPPH IC50=6.2 μg/mL) and lowest in Amla (Emblica officinalis) during pre-monsoon (DPPH IC50=22.5 μg/mL). HPLC identified phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids, with highest diversity in Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). WEPs exhibited higher antioxidant potential during wetter seasons, coinciding with peak phytochemical levels, suggesting a defense mechanism. This study highlights the seasonality of antioxidant and phytochemical composition in WEPs, impacting their nutritional value. Consumption across seasons could optimize daily intake of these bioactives, contributing to a healthy diet in Paschim Medinipur. Further research on in vitro and in vivo bioactivity is recommended.

Optimization of the extraction process of Moringa oleifera flower by using Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES)

Moringa oleifera is a plant native to India and its flowers are an excellent source of phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants. DES (Deep Eutectic Solvents) based solvents have a vast majority of benefits, such as they are non-toxic, green solvents, with a highly efficient method of extraction of phenolic, antioxidant, and flavonoid compounds. DES solvents are made by combining two solvents, out of which one must be a hydrogen bond donor (HBD) and another must be a hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) whereas, combining these two types reduces the melting point of the solvents. Six different types of DESs combinations were used in different ratios, for the optimization of the extraction process. The six combinations used were ChCl-Gly, ChCl-MA, ChCl-LA, ChCl-Glu, Pro-Gly, and Pro-LA. Total phenolic content, flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, lipase activity and glucose uptake assay of Moringa oleifera flower (MOFs) extracts were calculated in vitro at different temperatures ranging from 50 to 80 ℃ by using the statistical tool Anova single factor. Maximum yield, of phytochemicals were found at 70 ℃ with the DES combination Pro-Gly in 1:2 M ratio where phenolic content (32.4 mg GAE/g DW), Flavonoid content (42.1 mg QE/g DW), and antioxidant activity (65.82 %).

Phytochemical analysis and biological activities of various parts of Bulbine natalensis (Baker): A comparative study

Introduction: Bulbine natalensis is a succulent plant native to South Africa, used to treat various skin conditions. The purpose of this investigation was to analyse the phytochemical content, as well as antioxidant and antibacterial activities of various parts of B. natalensis. Methods: Phytochemical screening tests were performed to investigate the presence of ten compounds from B. natalensis methanol extract. Total phenolic, flavonoid, tannin, and proanthocyanidin content assays were followed to determine their concentrations in B. natalensis. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ), and iron chelating assays were used to assess the antioxidant activity. To determine the antibacterial properties of B. natalensis against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, the agar-well diffusion method was adopted. Results: The phytochemical screening revealed more compounds present in the leaves. The underground stems yielded higher concentrations of total phenolics (1909.2 ± 4.8 mg gallic acid equivalent [GAE]/g), total flavonoids (259.7 ± 27.2 mg quercetin equivalent [QE]/g), and total proanthocyanidins (858.3 ± 1.7 mg catechin equivalent [CE]/g) in comparison to the leaves and roots. The roots showed stronger DPPH (0.36 ± 0.02 mg/mL) and H2 O2 (0.24 ± 0.04 mg/mL) scavenging activities. Only the underground stems and roots showed inhibition against S. aureus with the values of 15.33 ± 0.67 mm and 15.67 ± 0.33 mm, respectively, whereas the leaves displayed the highest inhibition against E. coli (18.33 ± 0.88 mm). Conclusion: The methanolic extracts of B. natalensis leaves, underground stems, and roots possess significant phytochemical content, in conjunction with antioxidant and antibacterial activities.

Vitro bioactivities and simulated gastrointestinal digestion studies on Guras-based traditional fermented drinks collected from Singalila ridge of the Himalayas

Guras or Rhododendron wine and its distilled form (Raksi) are popular traditional and therapeutic drinks served in the Rhododendron growing regions of the Himalayas, mainly in the northern and northeastern part of India, Nepal and Indo-Nepal Singalila ridge. In this research, lali Guras (Rhododendron arboreum Sm.) based traditional beverages such as unfermented decoction (as control), fermented Guras wine and distilled spirit Guras ko Raksi were collected from Singalila ridge of the Himalayas for analysis. In vitro experiments such as physicochemical and qualitative and quantitative biochemical tests; antioxidant assays (DPPH and iodometric assay); antibacterial assay; and simulated gastrointestinal digestion were carried out. Phytochemically rich unfermented decoction exhibited the best results in total phenolic content assay (82.18±1.13 mg/100 mL gallic acid equivalent) and fatty acid quantification (1.86±0.08%) test while the wine was found to be the most potential sample in all bioactivity tests. The wine was found to contain high amounts of glycoside and fermented distilled liquor Guras Raksi showed high presence of glycerol. Both the fermented samples exhibited high rate of digestion in simulated human digestion system compared to the phenolic rich unfermented decoction. This research validated the therapeutic potential of these Guras-based beverages in high-altitude conditions like Singalila by focusing on their biochemistry.

PHYTOCHEMICAL, PROXIMATE AND IN-VITRO ANTIOXIDANT ANALYSES OF Ageratum conyzoides LEAF

Before the emergence of pharmaceuticals, different cultures worldwide depended on medicinal plants to combat diseases. Ageratum conyzoides, an annual herb that possesses a rich record of medicinal use has been recognized for its pharmacological properties. This study aimed to examine the proximate content analysis, phytochemical components plus in-vitro antioxidant potentials of ethanol extract of A. conyzoides leaf (ELEAC). Standard procedures were employed to conduct proximate and mineral composition analysis as well as qualitative and quantitative phytochemical assessments, while in vitro antioxidant assays were done using 1,1- Diphenyl2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), Total Phenol Content (TPC) assays. Qualitative phytochemical assessment recorded the presence of saponins, tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, phenols, and flavonoids. Proximate and mineral analysis revealed high carbohydrate content (84.97%), along with crude protein (1.53%), crude fat (3.27%), moisture (9.00%), Magnesium (42.30 mg/L), Sodium (73.21 mg/L) and Iron (4.30 mg/L). The extract exhibited a % DPPH radical scavenging activity of 44.63 at 200 µg/ml and 56.05 at 1000 µg/mL while the FRAP assay indicated a concentration-dependent increase in absorbance from 0.544 at 20 µg/mL to 0.756 at 100 µg/ml. TPC of the extract was quantified as 1.40 µg gallic acid equivalent/ mg of residue at 200 µg/mL and 2.22 µg gallic acid equivalent/ mg of residue at 1000 µg/mL. In conclusion, this study affirms the presence of medicinal phytochemicals in A. conyzoides. The identified phytochemicals, nutrients, and minerals with the demonstrated antioxidant activities, lend credibility to the traditional use of A, conyzoides in herbal medicine.

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Anti-Diabetic Activities of Scorzonera phaeopappa Boiss

Wild edible plants have attracted increasing interest from researchers because of their richness in biologically active phytochemicals. These are found to be a potential remedy for oxidative-stress-mediated diseases such as diabetes mellitus. In this study, total phenol, total terpene, and total flavonoid content as well as antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of Scorzonera phaeopappa Boiss from Lebanon were determined. Using dichloromethane, dichloromethane ammonia, methanol, acetone, and ethanol, extracts were prepared from the edible leaves. The antioxidant activity and the antidiabetic activity were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging, Fe2+-chelating and α-amylase/α-glucosidase inhibitory assays, respectively. Dichloromethane ammonia was found to have the highest extraction capacity on phenols (2.73 mg GAE /100 mg extract) and terpenes (232.42 mg LE/100 mg extract). Methanol was found to have the highest extraction capacity on total flavonoids (63.05 mg QE/100 mg extract). The methanol extract exhibited the highest DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 0.07 mg/mL) and the highest chelating activity as compared to other extracts (0.08 mg/mL, chelating activity 50%). The acetone extract was two times more active than acarbose against α-amylase enzyme and was the most active against α-glucosidase (6.3 mg/mL). Significant positive correlations were observed between total phenol content and α-glucosidase inhibitory assay and total terpene content and α-glucosidase inhibitory assay.

Antioxidant and antidiabetic activity and phytoconstituents of lichen extracts with temperate and polar distribution.

The objective of this research was to characterize the chemical composition of ethanolic extracts of the lichen species Placopsis contortuplicata, Ochrolechia frigida, and Umbilicaria antarctica, their antioxidant activity, and enzymatic inhibition through in vitro and molecular docking analysis. In total phenol content, FRAP, ORAC, and DPPH assays, the extracts showed significant antioxidant activity, and in in vitro assays for the inhibition of pancreatic lipase, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase enzymes, together with in silico studies for the prediction of pharmacokinetic properties, toxicity risks, and intermolecular interactions of compounds, the extracts evidenced inhibitory potential. A total of 13 compounds were identified by UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS in P. contortuplicata, 18 compounds in O. frigida, and 12 compounds in U. antarctica. This study contributes to the knowledge of the pool of bioactive compounds present in lichens of temperate and polar distribution and biological characteristics that increase interest in the discovery of natural products that offer alternatives for treatment studies of diseases related to oxidative stress and metabolic syndrome.

Eco-friendly Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles using Bignay (Antidesma bunius) Leaves for Antibacterial Application

Background:: Foodborne pathogenic bacteria continue to become a global concern despite the advancements in food packaging technology. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are widely studied in the field as they exhibit desirable inhibitory properties against foodborne pathogens. AgNPs are conventionally synthesized by toxic chemical and physical means; hence, there is a need to seek environmentally safe alternative routes for producing AgNPs. Objective:: The study aimed to synthesize AgNPs using bignay (Antidesma bunius) leaf extract and assess its antimicrobial activity against the common foodborne pathogens S. aureus and E. coli. Methods:: Bignay leaf extract was characterized using total phenolic content (TPC) assay and 2,2- Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. AgNPs were produced under optimized pH, temperature, and incubation time and were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, and Transmission Electron Microscopy. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs was evaluated against S. aureus and E. coli using the Resazurin Microtiter Assay (REMA). Results:: Bignay leaf extract exhibited a total phenolic content of 0.315 ± 0.015 mg GAE/mg extract and an IC50 of 36.36 ± 0.003 μg/mL, which suggests its good reducing properties. The AgNPs synthesized under reaction conditions of pH 7, 45 ºC, and 30 min showed SPR peaks in the range of 412- 426 nm. Particles were spherical with an average size of 23.72 ± 7.30 nm. FTIR analysis revealed that the phenolic compounds in the extract capped the resulting nanoparticles. AgNPs demonstrated superior inhibitory activity against S. aureus and E. coli with MIC90 values of 2.90 ± 0.03 and 3.08 ± 0.004 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusion:: The study was able to develop a green approach for the synthesis of AgNPs with antibacterial properties using bignay leaf extract.

Antioxidant Potential of Calophyllum gracilentum: A Study on Total Phenolic Content, Total Flavonoid Content, and Free Radical Scavenging Activities

The most prevalent phytoconstituents of medicinal and aromatic plants are phenols and flavonoids, which are responsible for antioxidant activity. This study aims to determine the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and free radical scavenging activity of Calophyllum gracilentum, an understudied Calophyllum species with very limited information. The stem bark extracts were prepared and examined for TPC assay by Folin–Ciocalteu method, while the TFC of the extracts was determined using aluminium chloride colorimetric method and the antioxidant activity was evaluated by free radical scavenging activity using 1,2-diphenyl-2-pricrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The extracts showed methanolic extracts exhibited the highest TPC and TFC with the value of 1542.40 ± 0.0246 mg GAE/g extract and 451.70 ± 0.0003 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g extract, respectively. Meanwhile, DPPH scavenging activity data revealed that all extracts had IC50 values ranging from 44.17 1.26 g/mL to 162.61 2.24 g/mL, with the methanolic extract for C. gracilentum having the highest antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 44.17 1.26 g/mL. The TPC and TFC assays showed that C. gracilentum extracts possess a substantial to moderate phenolic and flavonoid content, while the DPPH free radical scavenging assay revealed that the extracts have strong antioxidant activity. The results demonstrate that C. gracilentum contains a high concentration of phenolic and flavonoid chemicals. These discoveries could have significant implications for the prospective use of these plants in traditional medicine and as natural antioxidant sources.

Fresh Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) Fruits as Valuable Additive in Extruded Snack Pellets: Selected Nutritional and Physiochemical Properties.

In this paper, the nutritional value and (selected) physiochemical properties of extruded snack pellets enriched with fresh chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) fruits were analyzed from the perspective of being a new product for the functional food sector. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the addition of fresh chokeberry and variation in content and screw speed on extruded snack pellet basic compositions, fatty acid profiles, antioxidant activity, as well as water absorption and solubility indexes, fat absorption and color profiles. The obtained results revealed a significant increase in antioxidant activity for all samples (above 90% of free radical scavenging) in comparison to potato-based control samples (just over 20% of free radical scavenging). The total phenolic content assay revealed the most valuable results for samples enriched with 30% chokeberry, while Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) analysis allowed the determination of the most important phenolic acids. Of interest, chokeberry addition decreased the fat absorption index (FAI) after expansion by frying. Moreover, the highest values of crude protein and crude ash were observed in snack pellets supplemented by the application of 30% chokeberry. In such samples, the crude protein content was at the level of 4.75-4.87 g 100 g-1 and crude ash content at 4.88-5.07 g 100 g-1. Moreover, saturated fatty acids (SFA) content was lower in snack pellets with chokeberry addition, and increasing the amount of chokeberry additive from 10% to 30% in extruded snack pellet recipes resulted in more than double an increase in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) proportion in the total fatty acids.