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Antioxidants
Special Issues
Antioxidant Capacity of Natural Products—2nd Edition
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Antioxidant Capacity of Natural Products—2nd Edition

A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural and Synthetic Antioxidants".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 August 2025 | Viewed by 4360

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Younghwa Kim

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Food Biotechnology and Nutrition, Kyungsung University, Busan 48434, Republic of Korea
Interests: food chemistry and experiment; food chemistry; food analysis; functional food science
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce this second Special Issue edition of Antioxidants. This Special Issue aims to highlight studies related to the antioxidant capacity of natural products. Excessive oxidative stress arises from an imbalance between the production of oxidant derivatives and the defense mechanisms of antioxidants. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are widely recognized as harmful to health, capable of damaging cellular macromolecules and leading to processes such as apoptosis and necrosis. Numerous natural substances can act as antioxidants. Among these, dietary phytochemicals—including phenolic compounds, vitamins, and carotenoids—are potent antioxidants that can scavenge and neutralize free radicals to prevent cellular damage. Researchers are actively investigating the properties and activities of promising antioxidants derived from natural sources as potential countermeasures against metabolic disorders. Therefore, this Special Issue welcomes original research papers and review articles focusing on the antioxidant effects of various natural resources, as well as the mechanisms underlying their antioxidant actions, both in vivo and in vitro.

We invite research and review articles on topics such as, but not limited to, the following:

  • The role of antioxidants in preventing chronic diseases;
  • Synergistic effects of combined natural antioxidants;
  • Antioxidant activity and their potential applications;
  • Therapeutic potential of antioxidant-rich natural products;
  • Evaluation of antioxidant properties in traditional medicinal plants.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Sincerely,

Prof. Dr. Younghwa Kim
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Antioxidants is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • natural product
  • natural antioxidant
  • phytochemical
  • chronic disease
  • prevention

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 3944 KiB  
Article
Rutaecarpine Protects Human Endothelial Cells from Oxidative-Stress-Induced Apoptosis via TRPV1- and AhR-Mediated Nrf2 Activation
by Chae Yeon Kim, Gi Ho Lee, Seung Yeon Lee, Anh Thi Ngoc Bui and Hye Gwang Jeong
Antioxidants 2025, 14(5), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14050616 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 135
Abstract
Endothelial cells play a crucial role in cardiovascular health by maintaining vascular homeostasis, regulating blood flow and vascular wall permeability, and protecting against external stressors. Oxidative stress, particularly excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), disrupts cellular homeostasis and contributes to endothelial cell dysfunction. Rutaecarpine [...] Read more.
Endothelial cells play a crucial role in cardiovascular health by maintaining vascular homeostasis, regulating blood flow and vascular wall permeability, and protecting against external stressors. Oxidative stress, particularly excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), disrupts cellular homeostasis and contributes to endothelial cell dysfunction. Rutaecarpine (RUT), an indolopyridoquinazolinone alkaloid isolated from Evodia rutaecarpa, has cytoprotective potential. However, the molecular mechanism underlying its cytoprotective activity in endothelial cells remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of RUT against H2O2-induced apoptosis in human EA.hy926 endothelial cells and explored its underlying mechanism of action. RUT enhanced nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation by increasing its expression and phosphorylation, resulting in the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes (GCLC, NQO1, and HO-1). RUT increased the level of the anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2) while inhibiting apoptotic markers (cleaved caspase-3 and Bax) in H2O2-induced apoptotic cells. Mechanistic analysis revealed that RUT activates Nrf2 through two pathways: TRPV1-mediated PKCδ/Akt phosphorylation and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-dependent Nrf2 expression. These findings suggest that RUT exerts protective effects against oxidative-stress-induced apoptosis by controlling the Nrf2 signaling pathway in endothelial cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Natural Products—2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 3181 KiB  
Article
Sauchinone Ameliorates Senescence Through Reducing Mitochondrial ROS Production
by Myeong Uk Kuk, Yun Haeng Lee, Duyeol Kim, Kyeong Seon Lee, Ji Ho Park, Jee Hee Yoon, Yoo Jin Lee, Byeonghyeon So, Minseon Kim, Hyung Wook Kwon, Youngjoo Byun, Ki Yong Lee and Joon Tae Park
Antioxidants 2025, 14(3), 259; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14030259 - 24 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 646
Abstract
One of the major causes of senescence is oxidative stress caused by ROS, which is mainly generated from dysfunctional mitochondria. Strategies to limit mitochondrial ROS production are considered important for reversing senescence, but effective approaches to reduce them have not yet been developed. [...] Read more.
One of the major causes of senescence is oxidative stress caused by ROS, which is mainly generated from dysfunctional mitochondria. Strategies to limit mitochondrial ROS production are considered important for reversing senescence, but effective approaches to reduce them have not yet been developed. In this study, we screened the secondary metabolites that plants produce under oxidative stress and discovered sauchinone as a potential candidate. Sauchinone induced mitochondrial function recovery, enabling efficient electron transport within the electron transport chain (ETC). This led to a decrease in ROS production, a byproduct of inefficient electron transport. The reduction in ROS by sauchinone rejuvenated senescence-associated phenotypes. To understand the underlying mechanism by which sauchinone rejuvenates senescence, we carried out RNA sequencing and found VAMP8 as a key gene. VAMP8 was downregulated by sauchinone. Knockdown of VAMP8 decreased mitochondrial ROS levels and subsequently rejuvenated mitochondrial function, which was similar to the effect of sauchinone. Taken together, these studies revealed a novel mechanism by which sauchinone reduces mitochondrial ROS production by regulating mitochondrial function and VAMP8 expression. Our results open a new avenue for aging research to control senescence by regulating mitochondrial ROS production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Natural Products—2nd Edition)
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23 pages, 6711 KiB  
Article
A Comprehensive Antioxidant and Nutritional Profiling of Brassicaceae Microgreens
by Anja Vučetić, Olja Šovljanski, Lato Pezo, Nevenka Gligorijević, Saša Kostić, Jelena Vulić and Jasna Čanadanović-Brunet
Antioxidants 2025, 14(2), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14020191 - 7 Feb 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1330
Abstract
Microgreens are gaining prominence as nutrient-dense foods with health-promoting activities while aligning with smart agriculture and functional food trends. They are rich in numerous bioactive compounds like phenolics, ascorbic acid, and carotenoids, which act as antioxidants, while also causing multiple other biological activities. [...] Read more.
Microgreens are gaining prominence as nutrient-dense foods with health-promoting activities while aligning with smart agriculture and functional food trends. They are rich in numerous bioactive compounds like phenolics, ascorbic acid, and carotenoids, which act as antioxidants, while also causing multiple other biological activities. Using advanced statistical methods, this study investigated Brassicaceae microgreens, identifying kale and Sango radish as standout varieties. Both contained 16 amino acids, with potassium and calcium as dominant minerals. Sugar and protein contents ranged from 4.29 to 4.66% and 40.27 to 43.90%, respectively. Kale exhibited higher carotenoid levels, particularly lutein (996.36 mg/100 g) and beta-carotene (574.15 mg/100 g). In comparison, Sango radish excelled in glucose metabolism (α-glucosidase inhibition: 58%) and antioxidant activities (DPPH•: 7.92 mmol TE/100 g, ABTS•+: 43.47 mmol TE/100 g). Both showed antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Kale demonstrated stronger anti-inflammatory effects, while Sango radish showed antiproliferative potential. These results, supported by PCA and correlation analysis, underscore the dual role of these microgreens as nutritious and therapeutic food additives, addressing oxidative stress, inflammation, and microbial threats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Natural Products—2nd Edition)
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20 pages, 10707 KiB  
Article
Structure–Antioxidant Activity Relationship of Polysaccharides Isolated by Microwave/Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction from Pleurotus ferulae
by Hongjin Zhou, Zhongxiong Fan, Yuan Li, Xuelian Liu, Bo Wang, Jianguo Xing, Jiang He, Ruifang Zheng and Jinyao Li
Antioxidants 2025, 14(1), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14010091 - 14 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 882
Abstract
To investigate the structure–antioxidant activity relationship, Pleurotus ferulae polysaccharides were extracted using ultrasonic (U-PFPS) and microwave/ultrasonic-assisted methods (MU-PFPS). Compared to U-PFPS with a molecular weight of 1.566 × 103 kDa, MU-PFPS exhibited a lower molecular weight of 89.26 kDa. In addition, unlike [...] Read more.
To investigate the structure–antioxidant activity relationship, Pleurotus ferulae polysaccharides were extracted using ultrasonic (U-PFPS) and microwave/ultrasonic-assisted methods (MU-PFPS). Compared to U-PFPS with a molecular weight of 1.566 × 103 kDa, MU-PFPS exhibited a lower molecular weight of 89.26 kDa. In addition, unlike U-PFPS, which is primarily composed of glucose (Glu:Man:Gal = 91.1:3.5:5.4), MU-PFPS has a more balanced composition of Glu:Man:Gal in the ratio of 39.4:27.8:32.8 and contains more branched chains. Furthermore, antioxidant analysis revealed that high concentration (at concentrations above 600 μg/mL) MU-PFPS demonstrated stronger protective effects against oxidative damage in RAW264.7 cells than U-PFPS did. Collectively, these data suggest that lower molecular weight and higher branching degree of polysaccharides at appropriate concentrations may correlate with enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities. Our work provides a method for isolating polysaccharides with higher antioxidant activity and offers insights into the structure–activity relationship of polysaccharides, laying the foundation for future applications in polysaccharide modification and structural characterization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Natural Products—2nd Edition)
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Review

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44 pages, 8161 KiB  
Review
Oleanolic Acid: A Promising Antioxidant—Sources, Mechanisms of Action, Therapeutic Potential, and Enhancement of Bioactivity
by Andrzej Günther and Barbara Bednarczyk-Cwynar
Antioxidants 2025, 14(5), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14050598 - 16 May 2025
Viewed by 194
Abstract
This review discusses the antioxidant potential of oleanolic acid, a triterpene compound present in many medicinal and edible plants. The authors analyze various studies that confirm numerous pharmacological properties of this compound, such as its anticancer, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, osteoprotective, anti-obesity, and anti-inflammatory effects. [...] Read more.
This review discusses the antioxidant potential of oleanolic acid, a triterpene compound present in many medicinal and edible plants. The authors analyze various studies that confirm numerous pharmacological properties of this compound, such as its anticancer, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, osteoprotective, anti-obesity, and anti-inflammatory effects. OA, as a natural antioxidant, plays an important role in neutralizing reactive oxygen species, which contribute to the oxidative stress that is responsible for the development of many diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. This article also presents natural sources of OA, including grapes, olives, and apples, and discusses the mechanisms of its antioxidant action, including the inhibition of lipid peroxidation and the modulation of signaling pathways related to inflammatory processes. In addition, there are research results that indicate the therapeutic benefits of OA in the treatment of diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as its potential to protect the heart, liver, and kidneys from oxidative damage. In conclusion, OA has potent antioxidant properties that can be used in the prevention and treatment of many diseases related to oxidative stress. This article also presents the possibility of increasing the bioavailability of OA through the use of nanoparticle and liposome technology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Natural Products—2nd Edition)
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36 pages, 5716 KiB  
Review
Beacon of Hope for Age-Related Retinopathy: Antioxidative Mechanisms and Pre-Clinical Trials of Quercetin Therapy
by Ning Pu, Siyu Li, Hao Wu, Na Zhao, Kexin Wang, Dong Wei, Jiale Wang, Lulu Sha, Yameng Zhao, Ye Tao and Zongming Song
Antioxidants 2025, 14(5), 561; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14050561 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 494
Abstract
Age-related retinopathy is one of the leading causes of visual impairment and irreversible blindness, characterized by progressive neuronal and myelin loss. The damages caused by oxidation contributes to the hallmarks of aging and represents fundamental components in pathological pathways that are thought to [...] Read more.
Age-related retinopathy is one of the leading causes of visual impairment and irreversible blindness, characterized by progressive neuronal and myelin loss. The damages caused by oxidation contributes to the hallmarks of aging and represents fundamental components in pathological pathways that are thought to drive multiple age-related retinopathies. Quercetin (Que), a natural polyphenol abundant in vegetables, herbs, and fruits, has been extensively studied for its long-term antioxidative effects mediated through diverse mechanisms. Additionally, Que and its derivatives exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological characteristics in the cellular responses of age-related retinopathy induced by oxidative stress, including anti-inflammatory, anti-neovascularization, regulatory, and neuroprotective effects in autophagy and apoptosis processes. This review mainly focuses on the antioxidative mechanisms and curative effects of Que treatment for various age-related retinopathies, such as retinitis pigmentosa, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Furthermore, we discuss emerging technologies and methods involving Que and its derivatives in the therapeutic strategies for age-related retinopathies, highlighting their promise for clinical translation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Natural Products—2nd Edition)
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