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Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health

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A special issue of Molecules (ISSN 1420-3049). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural Products Chemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2026) | Viewed by 21896

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Sara Baldelli

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Guest Editor

1. Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
2. IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
Interests: bioactive compounds; polyphenols; terpenoids; alkaloids; glucosinolates; antioxidant; anti-inflammatory
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Gilda Aiello

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Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Via di Val Cannuta, 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
Interests: plant proteins; discovery and identification of bioactive peptides; functional food; food analysis by mass spectrometry; peptide stability
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Mauro Lombardo

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Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, Rome, Italy
Interests: obesity; sports nutrition; bariatric surgery; body composition; mediterranean diet; clinical nutrition
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Bioactive compounds are natural constituents found in many foods such as vegetables, fruits, olive oil, wine, tea, spices, cereals, beer and chocolate, but they can also be derived from animals and microbial sources, or be chemically synthesized. Among the most commonly analyzed bioactive compounds are polyphenols, terpenoids, alkaloids and glucosinolates, which, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, are able to modulate some important physiological functions, molecular pathways and biological activities. Thus, bioactive compounds can exert beneficial effects on human health. In fact, many scientific studies to date have explored the consequences of the consumption of bioactive compounds with respect to some pathologies, such as cardiovascular diseases, bacterial and viral infections, modulation of the microbiota, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and even sarcopenia.

This Special Issue focuses on the analysis of the molecular effects of bioactive compounds in different physiological or pathological conditions (cardiovascular diseases, bacterial and viral infections, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and sarcopenia). Furthermore, it will include studies regarding the identification, purification and extraction of bioactive compounds and their use in pre-clinical and clinical research.

Dr. Sara Baldelli
Dr. Gilda Aiello
Dr. Mauro Lombardo
Guest Editors

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Keywords

bioactive compounds
polyphenols
terpenoids
alkaloids
glucosinolates
antioxidant
anti-inflammatory
cardiovascular diseases
bacterial and viral infections
microbiota
neurodegenerative diseases
cancer
sarcopenia
identification
purification
extraction
pre-clinical
clinical

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 2756 KB

Open AccessArticle

Taxifolin Attenuates Remote Lung Injury Induced by Hepatic Ischemia–Reperfusion in Rats

by Serkan Erbatur, Meral Erdal Erbatur, Fırat Şahin, Hüseyin Bilge and Aysun Ekinci

Molecules 2026, 31(7), 1134; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31071134 - 30 Mar 2026

Viewed by 309

Abstract

Background: Hepatic ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury induces systemic oxidative stress and inflammatory responses that may lead to remote lung injury. This study investigated whether taxifolin attenuates hepatic I/R-induced lung damage and examined the involvement of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) signaling axis. Methods: Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n = 7): control, taxifolin, hepatic I/R, and taxifolin+I/R. Serum oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde [MDA], interleukin [IL]-6, total antioxidant/oxidant status [TAS/TOS]) and wet-to-dry lung weight ratio were measured. Lung tissues were evaluated histopathologically and immunohistochemically for NF-κB and HMGB1 expression. Bioinformatics pathway enrichment and molecular docking analyses were also performed. Results: Hepatic I/R significantly increased serum MDA, IL-6, and TOS levels and decreased TAS (p < 0.05). Severe lung injury was observed in the hepatic I/R group (median score: 11), whereas taxifolin pretreatment significantly reduced the injury score (median score: 5, p < 0.001). NF-κB and HMGB1 expression were markedly elevated following hepatic I/R and significantly decreased with taxifolin treatment (p < 0.05). A strong positive correlation was found between NF-κB and HMGB1 expression (r = 0.82, p < 0.001). Pathway enrichment analysis indicated involvement of Toll-like receptor (TLR)-related inflammatory signaling, and docking analysis demonstrated favorable binding of taxifolin to TLR4 and NF-κB p65. Conclusion: Taxifolin attenuated hepatic I/R-induced lung injury by reducing oxidative stress and suppressing HMGB1–TLR4–NF-κB-mediated inflammatory signaling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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28 pages, 1566 KB

Open AccessArticle

Modulating the Bioavailability and Bioaccessibility of Polyphenolic Compounds and Enhancing Health-Promoting Properties Through the Addition of Herbal Extracts to a Functional Beverage

by Hanna Mikołajczak and Paulina Nowicka

Molecules 2025, 30(24), 4796; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30244796 - 16 Dec 2025

Viewed by 679

Abstract

Shots are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and concentrated nutrient content. In this study, innovative shots were developed as herbal-enriched formulations designed to improve bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and health-promoting properties. To achieve this, pear–flowering quince juice was enriched with a mixture of herbal infusions and evaluated for its physicochemical characteristics, including bioactive compounds, as well as its functional and sensory properties. Additionally, the products were subjected to a three-stage in vitro digestion model (oral–gastric–small intestine) to assess bioaccessibility and bioavailability. The results revealed that the shot containing mint and nettle had the highest polyphenolic content (579 mg/100 mL), while the shot enriched with white mulberry and common yarrow had the highest mineral content (28 mg/100 mL). The developed formulations also exhibited strong inhibitory effects on pancreatic lipase and lipoxygenase. It was demonstrated that the addition of selected herbs, particularly those rich in rosmarinic acid, can enhance both bioaccessibility and bioavailability, and that menthol may further potentiate these effects. In conclusion, the study showed that incorporating different types of herbs into pear–flowering quince juice enables the development of novel products with tailored health-promoting and sensory properties, primarily through the synergistic action of the individual ingredients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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19 pages, 2610 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ginsenoside Re Regulates the Insulin/Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Signaling Pathway and Mediates Lipid Metabolism to Achieve Anti-Aging Effects in Caenorhabditis elegans

by Qi Chen, Xiaolu Chen, Linzhen Chen, Xue Zhang, Zhuo Yang, Juhui Hao and Zhiqiang Ma

Molecules 2025, 30(17), 3463; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30173463 - 22 Aug 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1659

Abstract

The increasing demographic aging of society is a great challenge to the healthcare sector and raises the socio-economic burden. Therefore, elucidating the mechanisms of aging and developing safe effective anti-aging products to prolong people’s healthy lifespan are paramount nowadays. Panax ginseng has been highly regarded since ancient times for its ability to enhance health and prolong life. However, its main active substances of anti-aging and their mechanisms are not fully understood. In this research, Caenorhabditis elegans was used as a model organism to explore and confirm the key active substances from Panax ginseng and the mechanisms that exert anti-aging effects. Various ginsenoside compounds were evaluated based on longevity, anti-stress, physiological function, etc. Ginsenoside Re, which has powerful anti-aging activity, was screened. In the follow-up trials, transcriptomics and RT-qPCR techniques were used to investigate the mechanism of Re in exerting its anti-aging properties. Differential genes were enriched in the Insulin/Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Signaling (IIS) pathway, the neuropeptide signaling pathway, and lipid metabolism. A significant increase in the expression levels of daf-16, sgk-1, skn-1, hsf-1, hsp-16.2, sod-3, gst-4, fil-2, lips-11, cyp-35A4, and aex-2 genes, and a significant decrease in the expression levels of daf-2, age-1, and akt-2 genes were verified. These suggest that ginsenoside Re exerts its life-extending influence by regulating lipid metabolism and the IIS pathway. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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20 pages, 4162 KB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Angiogenic Potential of Marine Streptomyces-Derived Lucknolide A on VEGF/VEGFR2 Signaling in Human Endothelial Cells

by Byeoung-Kyu Choi, Min-Hee Jo, Hee Jae Shin and Sun Joo Park

Molecules 2025, 30(5), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30050987 - 20 Feb 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1855

Abstract

Angiogenesis, primarily driven by the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor, the VEGFR, plays a key role in various pathological processes such as cancer progression. Here, we investigated the anti-angiogenic effects of Lucknolide A (LA), a marine Streptomyces-derived compound, and evaluated its potential as a VEGFR2 inhibitor. LA selectively inhibited the proliferation of human endothelial cells EA.hy926 and HUVEC while exhibiting minimal effects on normal fibroblasts and various tumor cells. LA induced S-phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in EA.hy926 cells, increasing apoptotic markers p53, Bax, and p21 and decreasing the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, with these effects being further enhanced under VEGF stimulation. Additionally, LA suppressed VEGFR2 phosphorylation and its downstream signaling pathways, including Akt/mTOR/p70S6K, MEK/ERK, Src, FAK, and p38 MAPK, which are crucial for endothelial survival and angiogenesis. Molecular docking studies revealed that LA binds to both inactive (DFG-out, PDB: 4ASD) and active (DFG-in, PDB: 3B8R) VEGFR2 conformations, with a significantly stronger affinity for the active state (−107.96 kcal/mol) than the inactive state (−33.56 kcal/mol), suggesting its potential as a VEGFR2 kinase inhibitor. Functionally, LA significantly inhibited VEGF-induced endothelial migration, tube formation, and microvessel sprouting in both in vitro and ex vivo rat aortic ring assays. Additionally, LA reduced tumor-associated tube formation induced by human breast tumor cells (MDA-MB-231), indicating its potential to suppress VEGF-dependent tumor angiogenesis. These findings suggest that LA is a promising selective anti-angiogenic agent with potential therapeutic applications in angiogenesis-related diseases such as cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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21 pages, 3263 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Echinacea purpurea and Alkylamides on Respiratory Virus Replication and IL-8 Expression In Vitro

by Keely Puchalski, Johanne A. Gerstel, Abiola Jimoh, Yalda Shokoohinia and Jeffrey Langland

Molecules 2025, 30(2), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30020386 - 17 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4877

Abstract

Echinacea purpurea is a perennial medicinal herb with important immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, especially purported for the alleviation of cold and flu symptoms. Different classes of secondary metabolites of the plant, such as alkylamides, caffeic acid derivatives, polysaccharides, flavonoids, and glycoproteins, are believed to be biologically and pharmacologically active. Although previous research suggests that the alkylamides present in Echinacea may be responsible for reducing the symptoms associated with the common cold or flu through their immunomodulatory activity, the roles of specific alkylamides and their targets (i.e., immune and/or antiviral) have not been well-elucidated or established. This study tested the antiviral and cytokine regulatory activity of various specific alkylamides that are present predominantly in Echinacea root extracts and found that one specific alkylamide, Dodeca-2E,4E-Dienoic acid isobutylamide, had potent antiviral activity against rhinovirus (the causative agent of most common colds) and influenza virus, as well as potent inhibition of IL-8 cytokine production. IL-8 is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with the common cold and is upregulated in other common respiratory infections. The broad activity and low cytotoxicity of this specific alkylamide support its potential use for treating rhinovirus and influenza virus infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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20 pages, 4459 KB

Open AccessArticle

S-(+)-Carvone, a Monoterpene with Potential Anti-Neurodegenerative Activity—In Vitro, In Vivo and Ex Vivo Studies

by Karolina A. Wojtunik-Kulesza, Monika Rudkowska, Katarzyna Klimek, Jarosław Mołdoch, Monika Agacka-Mołdoch, Barbara Budzyńska and Anna Oniszczuk

Molecules 2024, 29(18), 4365; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29184365 - 13 Sep 2024

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3664

Abstract

Carvone, a natural monoterpene, has been identified in various plants, giving them a characteristic scent. Enantiomers (R-(–) and S-(+)) reveal specific biological activities that are successfully used in traditional medicine for their antifungal, antibacterial, antiparasitic, and anti-influenza properties. The presented paper is based on S-(+)-carvone, characterized by a specific caraway scent, which revealed rich biological activities both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the potential anti-neurodegenerative activity of S-(+)-carvone, including in vitro experiments (butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory, neuro- and hepatotoxicity as well as neuro- and hepatoprotective activity), in vivo (memory acquisition, locomotor activity), and ex vivo (determination of S-(+)-carvone’s level in tissues collected from mice). Results revealed the multidirectional character of S-(+)-carvone. It has been shown that S-(+)-carvone is capable of butyrylcholinesterase inhibition (40% for 0.025 mg applied onto the plate), and neuroprotection and hepatoprotection at selective concentrations against reactive oxygen species generation and lipid peroxidation along with non-hepatotoxicity character. Additionally, multiple-dose administration of the monoterpene at a dose of 100 mg/kg had a positive influence on memory acquisition. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of the plasma and the brain showed that S-(+)-carvone can cross the blood–brain barrier and accumulate in the hippocampus (0.217 µg/mg of tissue), a crucial part of the brain associated with cognition and mental functions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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Review

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43 pages, 1969 KB

Open AccessReview

Nutritional Strategies and Aging: Current Evidence and Future Directions

by Serena Castelli, Gilda Aiello, Vincenzo Aiello, Elena Massimino, Mattia Pieri, Isaac Amoah, Mauro Lombardo, Gianluca Tripodi and Sara Baldelli

Molecules 2026, 31(5), 756; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31050756 - 24 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1201

Abstract

Aging is a progressive degenerative process characterized by the depletion of tissue stem cell reserves, organ atrophy, sarcopenia, and an impaired capacity to respond to physiological stress and injury. These changes lead to a reduction in both overall life expectancy and disease-free lifespan. Since aging represents a major risk factor for numerous diseases, including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and metabolic disorders, recent research has increasingly focused on identifying effective intervention strategies to promote “healthy aging” by slowing down the aging process as much as possible. At the molecular level, multiple factors contribute to cellular aging and, consequently, to the onset of senescence. These include mitochondrial dysfunction, defective DNA repair mechanisms, epigenetic reprogramming, and chronic low-grade inflammation. Among the mechanisms driving cellular senescence, oxidative stress is recognized as a key contributor to the loss of replicative capacity. When reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels exceed a critical threshold, they can damage essential macromolecules, including DNA. Therefore, ROS and oxidative stress represent crucial therapeutic targets to be considered in strategies aimed at counteracting cellular senescence. Based on these causal factors, several strategies have been identified that target modifiable lifestyle determinants, with a primary focus on nutrition and nutraceutical interventions. In this context, the present review aims to critically analyze scientific evidence regarding nutritional approaches designed to slow down the aging process, including their effects at the molecular level. Specifically, these strategies aim to reduce inflammation, preserve mitochondrial function to modulate ROS production, and protect macromolecules from oxidative stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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37 pages, 1750 KB

Open AccessReview

Multi-Target Pharmacological Effects of Asiatic Acid: Advances in Structural Modification and Novel Drug Delivery Systems

by Xiaofan Dong, Tianyi Wang, Chenjia Gao, Yulong Cui and Lingjun Li

Molecules 2025, 30(18), 3688; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30183688 - 10 Sep 2025

Viewed by 2448

Abstract

Asiatic acid is an ursane-type pentacyclic triterpenoid compound extracted from the Umbelliferae plant Centella asiatica. Studies have shown that asiatic acid exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, and wound healing effects. Asiatic acid is currently used in clinical settings in the form of tablets, capsules, and ointments, primarily for treating inflammation as well as burns, keloids, and other skin disorders. However, its poor water solubility, rapid metabolism, and low oral bioavailability have limited its clinical application for other diseases. Therefore, improving its water solubility and bioavailability is a prerequisite for addressing the limitations of asiatic acid in clinical use. This review summarizes the pharmacological mechanisms of action of asiatic acid and explains the reasons for its limited clinical application. This review describes methods to improve bioavailability through structural modifications of asiatic acid and the development of new formulations. It also focuses on enhancing the pharmacological effects of asiatic acid through the development and utilization of novel formulations such as nanoformulations and hydrogel formulations, providing a theoretical basis for the clinical translation of asiatic acid and the further research and development of asiatic acid-based drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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14 pages, 847 KB

Open AccessReview

Preventive and Therapeutic Effects of Baicalein, Galangin, and Isorhamnetin in Chronic Liver Diseases: A Narrative Review

by Giuseppe Guido Maria Scarlata, Ivo Lopez, Maria Luisa Gambardella, Maja Milanović, Nataša Milić and Ludovico Abenavoli

Molecules 2025, 30(6), 1253; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30061253 - 11 Mar 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3664

Abstract

Chronic liver diseases (CLDs), including fatty liver disease, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, pose significant global health challenges due to the limitedness of therapeutic options. Flavonoids, a class of polyphenolic compounds mainly contained in natural sources and in the foods of the Mediterranean diet, have emerged as potential candidates for liver protection due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-fibrotic properties. Baicalein, derived from Scutellaria baicalensis, exhibits hepatoprotective effects by attenuating oxidative stress, inhibiting fibrogenesis, and modulating lipid metabolism. Galangin, a flavonoid derived from Alpinia officinarum, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties, while isorhamnetin, a methylated flavonoid found in various fruits and herbs, has been shown to possess hepatoprotective qualities, as it reduces oxidative stress and mitigates inflammation in CLDs. This narrative review highlights the preventive and therapeutic potential of these three flavonoids, emphasizing their role as promising agents for managing CLDs and guiding future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds: Applications and Benefits for Human Health)

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