Submit to Antioxidants Review for Antioxidants Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being

Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 January 2026) | Viewed by 18451

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Teresa Mencherini

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
Interests: secondary metabolite isolation from medicinal plants and food byproducts; analytical techniques; structural determination; NMR spectroscopy; nutraceuticals; bioactive natural molecules
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Francesca Sansone

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
Interests: drug delivery systems for pharmaceutical; nutraceutical and cosmetic applications; application of micro/nano-encapsulation techniques in particle engineering; biopolymers; medicinal plant extracts; spray drying; technological and solid state characterization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Tiziana Esposito

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy
Interests: drug delivery systems for pharmaceutical; nutraceutical and cosmetic applications; application of micro/nano-encapsulation techniques in particle engineering; biopolymers; medicinal plant extracts; spray drying; technological and solid solid-state characterization; secondary metabolite isolation from medicinal plants and food byproducts; analytical techniques
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Antioxidant phytochemicals are naturally occurring compounds that play a pivotal role in neutralizing oxidative stress and preventing cellular damage caused by free radicals. Their health-promoting properties have attracted significant interest in the fields of nutrition, human health, and well-being.

This Special Issue focuses on the recovery of antioxidant phytochemicals from plants, agri-food by-products, and other natural sources, highlighting their potential in promoting health and preventing chronic disease. They key topics involved in this Special Issue include the following:

Innovative Extraction Methods: Advanced techniques for recovering antioxidant phytochemicals from natural sources, emphasizing the use of bio- and eco-compatible solvents and processes, along with the chemical characterization of bioactive molecules.

Mechanisms of Action: Insights into how these phytochemicals mitigate oxidative damage through free radical scavenging, regulating antioxidant enzymes, and modulating cellular signaling pathways involved in inflammation, apoptosis, aging-related decline, and other disorders.

Formulation Design and Technological Characterization: The development and evaluation of innovative delivery systems to improve the stability, bioavailability, and functionality of antioxidant phytochemicals for applications in functional foods, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products.

Challenges and Future Directions: Exploration of novel phytochemicals, their interactions with human systems, and the development of stable and bioactive formulations for nutrition, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

By consolidating cutting-edge findings, this Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how antioxidant phytochemicals can be harnessed to improve human health and well-being. It seeks to pave the way for innovative solutions in disease prevention and health promotion.

Dr. Teresa Mencherini
Dr. Francesca Sansone
Dr. Tiziana Esposito
Guest Editors

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 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

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

antioxidant phytochemicals
oxidative stress
health promotion
chronic disease
functional foods
nutraceuticals

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

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

Published Papers (8 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

20 pages, 4103 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Nutritional Quality and Bioactive Compounds in Oat Mediterranean Landraces and Cultivars

by Elena Prats, María Jesús Cañuelo, Carmen Tejero-Arroyo, Besma Sghaier-Hammami, Sofiene B. M. Hammami and Gracia Montilla-Bascon

Antioxidants 2026, 15(3), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15030341 - 9 Mar 2026

Viewed by 788

Abstract

Oat (Avena sativa L.) is increasingly recognized as a functional food due to its unique profile of antioxidant and health-promoting compounds. Beyond its traditional role, our study reveals that Mediterranean landraces and related species harbour exceptional variability in both their nutritional and bioactive traits, offering untapped potential for functional food development. We analysed 126 genotypes, including landraces and cultivars, from 18 Mediterranean and European countries, quantifying the β-glucans, arabinoxylans, phenolic acids (soluble and cell wall bound), avenanthramides (AVAs: A, B, and C), carbon (C), nitrogen (N), C:N ratio, and protein content. The protein levels ranged from 9.5% to 18.5%, with several genotypes exceeding 17%, far above typical oat averages. The β-glucans reached clinically relevant thresholds (>5%) in multiple accessions, while the arabinoxylans surpassed 2% in selected genotypes. The phenolic acids and avenanthramides showed striking diversity, with some landraces accumulating more than 2000 µg/g of total AVAs. The species and phenology strongly influenced the grain composition. Thus, A. strigosa exhibited the highest β-glucan and avenanthramide contents, while early-heading genotypes had doubled avenanthramide levels compared to late-heading ones. A correlation analysis revealed synergistic patterns among the β-glucans, avenanthramides, and proteins, suggesting multi-component interactions that could enhance antioxidant functionality. These findings underscore the strategic value of Mediterranean oat germplasm for breeding programs targeting high-protein, fibre-rich, and antioxidant-enhanced cultivars. By exploiting this diversity, oats could play a pivotal role in preventing chronic diseases and advancing sustainable, health-oriented food systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 3255 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fermented and Unfermented Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) Exhibit Selective Protection Against Hepatic Stress in Rats Exposed to Fumonisin B1

by Jeanine L. Marnewick, Omeralfaroug Ali, Naeem Sheik Abdul, Taskeen Fathima Docrat, Elias Chipofya, Paolo Bristow, András Szabó, Tamás Schieszl, Krisztián Balogh, Brigitta Bóta, Janka Turbók, Viktória Varga-Szatmári, Edward Agyarko and Melinda Kovács

Antioxidants 2026, 15(2), 254; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15020254 - 14 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1044

Abstract

The exploration of natural redox-modulating agents to mitigate/reduce oxidative damage triggered by toxins is a major area of interest in nutritional and pharmacological fields. Aspalathus linearis (rooibos), traditionally consumed in South Africa for health benefits, was assessed for hepatoprotective effects against fumonisin B1 (FB1)-induced damage. This study involved 24 male rats (n = 6/group) that received FB1 (50 mg/kg diet equivalent, i.p. for 5 days) with or without oral exposure to unfermented (GR) or fermented (FR) rooibos extracts. Alongside somatic records, we assessed blood biochemicals, as well as liver histology, antioxidative stress markers (GSH, GPx, MDA, and carbonylation), regulatory proteins (Nrf2, Sirt3, PGC-α, TRX1, HSP70, and LONp1), inflammation (cytokines), and phospholipid fatty acid profile. Based on results, FB1 suppressed growth, compromised liver function, altered redox status, and elevated stress markers. Both rooibos extracts decreased oxidative damage (↓MDA, ↓carbonylation) and modulated stress regulators (↑Nrf2, ↓HSP70). FR uniquely increased GPx and TRX1 while decreasing IL-1β and PGC-α concentrations, whereas GR strongly increased Nrf2 and Sirt3, reflecting distinct bioactivities linked to their differing polyphenolic profiles. Neither extract compensated for FB1-induced alterations in the liver total phospholipid fatty acid profile or serum cholesterol. In conclusion, GR and FR improved redox potential and inflammatory/stress response; however, this effect was selective, as it did not translate into comprehensive hepatoprotection. These findings support the potential role of rooibos as a dietary modulator of endogenous antioxidant defenses, although clinical translational trials are needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

20 pages, 1368 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phytochemistry and Biological Effects of the Juglans regia “Sorrento” Walnut Husk Extract on Human Keratinocyte Cells

by Giulia Vergine, Michela Ottolini, Giuseppe E. De Benedetto, Simona Bettini, Francesca Baldassarre, Daniele Vergara and Giuseppe Ciccarella

Antioxidants 2025, 14(12), 1385; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14121385 - 21 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1325

Abstract

Plants are a valuable source of natural compounds with diverse applications. Recently, increased attention has focused on waste products from the agricultural industry, including walnut husk. Given its potential as a sustainable source of bioactives, this work characterizes the alcoholic Juglans regia “Sorrento” walnut husk extract (WHE). The extract’s phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and phytochemical composition were evaluated using spectrophotometry and UHPLC-HRMS-based untargeted metabolomics analysis. WHE exhibited a high total phenolic content (TPC = 1.45 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g dry extract) and a rich profile of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and tannins. Given this composition, WHE’s biological activity was further tested in an in vitro human keratinocyte (HaCaT) model. At the concentration of 10 μg/mL, WHE showed no cytotoxicity and displayed significant antioxidant properties by modulating detoxifying proteins such as Nrf2. WHE also influenced mitochondrial metabolism, increased maximum respiration, preserved barrier integrity, and activated pathways for epithelial homeostasis. Overall, this study highlights the bioactivity of the J. regia “Sorrento” walnut husk extract. These findings support the valorization of walnut husk as a sustainable source of bioactives for dermatological and cosmetic products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

27 pages, 3518 KB

Open AccessArticle

Correlation of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of the Aqueous Pinus pinaster Aiton Bark Extract Within a Cytocompatible Concentration Range

by Diana Barros, Liliana Grenho, Maria Helena Fernandes, Pedro Sousa Gomes and Élia Fernandes

Antioxidants 2025, 14(11), 1377; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14111377 - 19 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1469

Abstract

This study explores the antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytocompatibility properties of aqueous Pinus pinaster bark extract (PBE). PBE was prepared using two solvent systems—100% distilled water and 1% DMSO in aqueous solution—at a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:20 (w/v), following ISO guidelines. Extract characterization included yield determination, FTIR analysis, quantification of total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) contents, and assessment of antioxidant activity using four complementary methods: free radical scavenging (DPPH and ABTS), metal ion reduction (FRAP), and a competitive reaction assay (ORAC). The phenolic compound profile was further examined by HPLC-DAD. The results indicated that the two extracts exhibited comparable values across all evaluated parameters when expressed per gram of PBE. The TPC and TFC were approximately 400 mg GAE (gallic acid equivalents)/g PBE and 92 mg CE (catechin equivalents)/g PBE, respectively. Antioxidant capacity values were about 880, 1030, 3210, and 585 mg TE (Trolox equivalents)/g PBE for the DPPH, ABTS, ORAC, and FRAP assays, respectively. Furthermore, in both extracts, the phenolic and flavonoid contents exhibited strong positive correlations with antioxidant activity across all four chemical assays. The 100% aqueous extract was additionally evaluated for antibacterial activity and cytocompatibility with eukaryotic cells. Compared to the control, the extract demonstrated IC₅₀ values of 0.304, 0.678, and 0.845 mg/mL PBE for the inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and fibroblast cells, respectively. Antioxidant and antibacterial activities showed a positive association within concentration ranges that remained non-cytotoxic to fibroblasts. Overall, these findings indicate that the aqueous PBE retains cytocompatibility across a wide concentration range while maintaining both antioxidant and antibacterial activities, underscoring its potential for biological applications involving direct contact with eukaryotic cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2975 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense, Camb) Bark Extract Reduces ROS Production in Diabetic Human Coronary Endothelial Cells

by Karla M. S. Braga, Eugenio G. Araujo, Frank W. Sellke and M. Ruhul Abid

Antioxidants 2025, 14(10), 1167; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14101167 - 25 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 935

Abstract

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction contributes to endothelial dysfunction in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense, Camb), a native Brazilian fruit, is rich in polyphenolic antioxidants. We investigated whether its ethanolic bark extract modulates ROS levels and promotes proliferation in human coronary artery endothelial cells from patients with diabetes (D-HCAECs). Cells were treated with pequi extract under normoxic, hypoxic, or H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress conditions. Cytosolic and mitochondrial ROS levels, cell proliferation, and the expression of antioxidant proteins (Nrf2, HO-1, SOD1, SOD2, catalase, and GPx1) were assessed. Pequi significantly reduced cytosolic ROS under normoxia and both cytosolic and mitochondrial ROS under stress. It also upregulated antioxidant enzymes through the Nrf2 pathway and enhanced D-HCAEC proliferation under all tested conditions. These results suggest that pequi’s antioxidant effects may be mediated by the increased expression of endogenous enzymes, leading to improved redox balance and endothelial function in diabetic coronary vasculature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 1884 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Mechanism of Protective Action of Plant-Derived Squalane (2,6,10,15,19,23-Hexamethyltetracosane) Against UVA Radiation-Induced Apoptosis in Human Dermal Fibroblasts

by Katarzyna Wolosik, Magda Chalecka, Gabriela Gasiewska, Jerzy Palka and Arkadiusz Surazynski

Antioxidants 2025, 14(7), 853; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14070853 - 11 Jul 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2598

Abstract

Ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation has been identified as a significant factor contributing to skin photoaging and skin diseases, operating through the excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the subsequent induction of DNA damage. Plant-derived antioxidants have demonstrated efficacy in mitigating UVA-induced damage; nevertheless, their instability limits their therapeutic potential. This study investigates the mechanisms of antioxidant and cytoprotective effects of squalane (Sq), a stable, plant-derived triterpene, in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) exposed to UVA radiation. Sq was administered at concentrations ranging from 0.005% to 0.015% prior to UVA exposure (10 J/cm²). It has been found that Sq counteracted UVA-induced ROS formation, decreased the level of reduced thiol groups, activated apoptosis, and inhibited DNA biosynthesis. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that Sq suppressed the UVA-induced expression of p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, while restoring the activity of the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. The findings indicate that Sq exerts protective effects on UVA-induced fibroblast damage through a combination of antioxidant and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

58 pages, 1266 KB

Open AccessReview

Oxidative Stress and Antioxidants in Glioblastoma: Mechanisms of Action, Therapeutic Effects and Future Directions

by Agnieszka Nowacka, Maciej Śniegocki and Ewa Ziółkowska

Antioxidants 2025, 14(9), 1121; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14091121 - 15 Sep 2025

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5128

Abstract

Glioblastoma (GB) is an aggressive and treatment-resistant primary brain tumor with a dismal prognosis. Increasing evidence implicates oxidative stress as a central driver of its pathogenesis, progression, and resistance to therapy. The dynamic interplay between oxidative stress and antioxidant mechanisms is fundamental to understanding GBM biology and shaping novel therapeutic approaches. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the multifaceted role of redox biology in glioblastoma, highlighting the molecular mechanisms through which oxidative stress influences tumor proliferation, survival, immune evasion, and metabolic adaptation. Particular focus is given to the tumor microenvironment, hypoxia-driven reactive oxygen species, redox-regulating enzymes, and the immunosuppressive conditions fostered by oxidative stress. Antioxidants, in this context, demonstrate a dual role: while they can mitigate oxidative damage, their effects on cancer cells and treatment outcomes vary depending on the therapeutic setting. We further examine emerging strategies that target oxidative pathways, including small-molecule inhibitors, redox-modulating agents, and combinatorial approaches with standard treatments, while also addressing the complexities posed by antioxidant interventions. Preclinical and clinical findings are reviewed to underscore both the opportunities and challenges of exploiting redox vulnerabilities in GB. Ultimately, a deeper understanding of oxidative stress dynamics and antioxidant regulation may guide the development of innovative therapies that overcome resistance and improve outcomes for patients facing this devastating malignancy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

58 pages, 1029 KB

Open AccessReview

A Review of the Potential Use of Antioxidants in Spinal Cord Injuries

by Agnieszka Nowacka, Maciej Śniegocki and Ewa Ziółkowska

Antioxidants 2025, 14(9), 1081; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14091081 - 3 Sep 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4095

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating neurological condition marked by primary mechanical damage followed by a complex secondary injury cascade, in which oxidative stress plays a central role. Mitochondrial dysfunction, ionic imbalance, and inflammatory responses drive excessive generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, leading to lipid peroxidation, protein and DNA damage, apoptosis, and progressive neurological impairment. Antioxidant-based therapies have emerged as promising neuroprotective strategies, with compounds such as A91 peptide, curcumin, edaravone, ginsenosides, and glutathione demonstrating preclinical efficacy in reducing oxidative damage, restoring redox balance, modulating signaling pathways (e.g., Nrf2, NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/Akt), and enhancing neuronal survival. While therapeutic outcomes depend on injury severity, timing, and combinatorial approaches, translating these findings into clinical practice and integrating antioxidants with cell-based therapies, biomaterials, and rehabilitation offers a critical avenue for improving functional recovery in SCI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Antioxidant Phytochemicals for Promoting Human Health and Well-Being

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (8 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI