Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activities of Plant Matrices: Methods, Mechanisms, and Translational Relevance

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue focuses on the rigorous, harmonized assessment of antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities across diverse plant matrices—from conventional crops to wild, neglected, and underutilized species. We welcome studies that strengthen the connection between laboratory evidence and practical relevance by linking compositions, processing, formulation/delivery approaches, and clearly defined endpoints. While plant-derived agents at the interface of redox biology and metabolic health continue to demonstrate promise, progress is often limited by methodological fragmentation and insufficiently standardized workflows. Accordingly, we explicitly encourage both chemical assays and in vitro studies.

We particularly invite first-time screenings and in vitro investigations of previously uncharacterized plant sources, as well as systematic evaluations of side streams and by-products to broaden sustainable bioactive portfolios. Submissions may address activity profiling alongside the effects of processing and formulation on stability, bioaccessibility, and bioavailability—for example, drying technologies, ultrasound, microwave treatment, fermentation, and food-grade carriers/encapsulation. Cellular or mechanistic data can enhance interpretability but are not required, as are studies that clearly report composition–activity relationships.

To improve reproducibility and enable meta-analyses, we especially value method harmonization (fit-for-purpose assay selection, reference standards, calibration/quality control) and transparent reporting (sample provenance, processing history, matrix effects, dose ranges). Data structures that facilitate reuse—e.g., shared metadata and assay parameters—are encouraged. By assembling robust chemical and in vitro evidence and, where possible, connecting it to mechanistic or formulation insights, this Special Issue aims to build a coherent evidence base from composition to function and to inform the future development of reliable, plant-based interventions relevant to metabolic health.

Dr. Sabina Lachowicz-Wiśniewska
Guest Editor

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