Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Nutrients Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition

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

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Phytochemicals and Human Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 July 2026 | Viewed by 8220

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Paola Coccetti

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

1. Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
2. National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), 90133 Palermo, Italy
Interests: amino acid metabolism; metabolomics; cell cycle; signal transduction; aging; protein aggregation; ubiquitination; phosphorylation; nutrition; neurodegeneration
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Paola Fusi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

1. Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
2. National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), 90133 Palermo, Italy
Interests: metabolism; cancer; environmental carcinogenesis; cadmium; neurodegeneration; protein aggregation; food and nutrition
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Based on the success of first volume of special issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health (https://www.mdpi.com/journal/nutrients/special_issues/UE42WUB1A1), We hereby announce Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition. This Special Issue explores the impact of natural products, originating from plants, on human wellness.

Plants contain secondary metabolites that are very specific and represent a fascinating library of bioactive compounds with a broad activity in the context of human health.

As society strives to transition towards more sustainable development pathways, it is important to investigate the link between biodiversity, nutritional status, and human well-being.

Nutrients, supplements, and herbal bioactive compounds have shown promise as complementary tools in the treatment and prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as obesity, type II diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Consistent with the journal Nutrients, we welcome original research articles, reviews, and commentaries that aim to elucidate the role of nutrients, supplements, and herbal compounds in counteracting pathogenetic factors inducing NCDs, with a special emphasis on disease prevention.

Dr. Paola Coccetti
Dr. Paola Fusi
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. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly 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

sustainability
prevention
healthy nutrition
chemical characterization
plant-based diets
bioactive compounds
non-communicable diseases
metabolism
oxidative stress
molecular mechanisms

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

23 pages, 2248 KB

Open AccessArticle

Aloysia citrodora Polyphenolic Extract: From Anti-Glycative Activity to In Vitro Bioaccessibility and In Silico Studies

by Giulia Moretto, Raffaella Colombo, Stefano Negri, Stefano Alcaro, Francesca Alessandra Ambrosio, Giosuè Costa and Adele Papetti

Nutrients 2026, 18(1), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18010115 - 29 Dec 2025

Viewed by 319

Abstract

Background: The in vivo accumulation of Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs) is associated with the development of several chronic aging-related and degenerative diseases, as they alter protein structures and activate oxidative and inflammatory processes through interactions with the receptor for AGEs (RAGE). Plant secondary metabolites play a key role in counteracting the glycation process through various mechanisms of action. Therefore, Aloysia citrodora leaf polyphenolic extract could represent a source of anti-glycative compounds. Methods: The methanolic extract was characterized by RP-HPLC-DAD-MSⁿ, and its anti-glycative properties were investigated using several in vitro assays mimicking the different steps of the glycation reaction. In parallel, molecular docking studies were carried out to evaluate potential interactions between the identified metabolites and RAGE. Furthermore, A. citrodora metabolites’ stability under simulated in vitro digestion was assessed, and the anti-glycative activity of the bioaccessible fraction was investigated. Results:A. citrodora extract, rich in iridoid glycosides, phenylethanoid glycosides, and flavones, strongly inhibited AGE formation (from 10% to 100%) in both the middle and end step of the reaction and had high methylglyoxal and glyoxal trapping capacity. However, the digestion process affected extract stability, particularly under intestinal conditions, yielding an overall bioaccessibility of about 40% and leading to a subsequent reduction in anti-glycative properties. Finally, molecular modeling analysis highlighted the ability of the studied metabolites to bind RAGE. Conclusions:A. citrodora represents a promising source of natural anti-glycative agents with potential applications as food ingredients. However, it is essential to improve the extract bioaccessibility and to preserve its anti-glycative properties by developing a suitable formulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 4737 KB

Open AccessArticle

Therapeutic Modulation of Mitophagy by Cafestol in Pressure Overload-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy and Fibrosis

by Wen-Rui Hao, Chun-Chao Chen, Guan-Ci Huang, Jia-Hong Lin, Huan-Yuan Chen, Ju-Chi Liu, Tzu-Hurng Cheng and Jin-Jer Chen

Nutrients 2025, 17(23), 3680; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17233680 - 25 Nov 2025

Viewed by 2375

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Mitophagy, the selective removal of damaged mitochondria, plays a pivotal role in regulating cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis under pressure overload. Targeting mitophagy may help mitigate adverse cardiac remodeling. This preclinical study examined the effects of cafestol, a coffee-derived diterpene, on pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in mice, with emphasis on mitophagy modulation and mitochondrial ultrastructure. Methods: Male normotensive mice underwent transverse aortic constriction (TAC) and received cafestol at 2, 10, or 50 mg/kg/day via oral gavage for 28 days. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography. Histological and molecular analyses quantified fibrosis, inflammation, and apoptosis. Protein expression of CD68, CTGF, DDR2, α-SMA, CD44, galectin-3 (Gal3), collagen I, GAPDH, Bcl-2, Bax, cleaved caspase-3, GRP78, p-ERK/ERK, ATF4, p-mTOR/mTOR, and p62 was evaluated. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to assess autophagosome formation and mitochondrial morphology. Results: TAC induced significant cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, accompanied by elevated expression of fibrotic (CTGF, DDR2, α-SMA, collagen I), inflammatory (CD68, CD44, Gal3), apoptotic (Bax, cleaved caspase-3), and endoplasmic reticulum stress markers (GRP78, ATF4). TEM revealed increased autophagosome accumulation and disrupted mitochondrial architecture. Cafestol treatment reduced collagen deposition, immune cell infiltration, and apoptotic signaling; enhanced Bcl-2 expression; and restored p62 levels. TEM findings demonstrated decreased autophagosome burden and preserved mitochondrial structure, consistent with improved mitophagic flux and mitochondrial homeostasis. Conclusions: Cafestol mitigated pressure overload-induced cardiac remodeling in mice by modulating mitophagy, suppressing fibrotic and inflammatory responses, and preserving mitochondrial integrity. These findings support further investigation of cafestol’s mechanisms and safety profile in preclinical models of cardiovascular disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3121 KB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Obesity Effects of Acid-Processed Citrus reticulata Blanco Peel Extract Enriched in Highly Bioactive Polymethoxyflavones: Inhibition of 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Differentiation and Therapeutic Efficacy in ob/ob Mice

by Hiyoung Kim, Mi-Gi Lee and Myoung-Sook Shin

Nutrients 2025, 17(21), 3322; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17213322 - 22 Oct 2025

Viewed by 937

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Chronic diseases linked to obesity represent a major global health challenge. Although pharmaceutical treatments show efficacy, their use is often limited by side effects. Methods: This study investigated the anti-obesity effects of acid-processed Citrus reticulata Blanco peels extract (CRBE) prepared through reflux extraction with 50% ethanol, followed by acid treatment using 3 M hydrogen chloride and neutralization. Results: Following acid treatment, the composition of the extract showed a marked increase in the 5-demethylated forms of polymethoxyflavones, particularly 5-demethylnobiletin (31.86 mg/g) and 5-demethyltangeretin (34.68 mg/g), whereas the concentrations of the typical citrus polymethoxyflavones, nobiletin (14.82 mg/g) and tangeretin (10.61 mg/g), decreased. Using 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, CRBE inhibited adipogenesis concentration dependently, substantially decreasing the expression of adipogenic transcription factors and lipid metabolism-related proteins. In ob/ob mice, oral CRBE substantially suppressed body weight gain without affecting food intake, while normalizing liver function indicators and improving serum lipid profiles by reducing total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein. Conclusions: Acid-processed CRBE effectively inhibits adipocyte differentiation and exhibits anti-obesity effects in vivo, offering potential as a natural agent for obesity management with minimal side effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 4442 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Polysaccharide-Rich Ingredient from Hypericum perforatum L. Ameliorates Depression-like and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder-like Symptoms in Mouse Models

by Zi-Jia Jin, Shuai-Ming Zhu, Fu-Yao Luo, Yue Sun, Chun-Xue Gao, Ting Feng, Hao Ma, Rui Xue, Chang-Wei Li, Lei An and You-Zhi Zhang

Nutrients 2025, 17(20), 3222; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17203222 - 14 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 995

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Hypericum perforatum L. (H. perforatum), commonly known as St. John’s wort, has been widely used in clinical practice to treat mental disorders. Previous studies and clinical applications have primarily focused on its alcohol-soluble ingredients. Our research was designed to investigate the physicochemical properties, antidepressant-like effects, and anti-post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-like effects of the alcohol-insoluble polysaccharide-rich ingredients from H. perforatum. Meanwhile, the underlying mechanisms were elucidated. Methods: The physicochemical properties of two polysaccharide-rich ingredients, designated as HPP1 and HPP2, were characterized using colorimetric assay, capillary electrophoresis, high-performance gel permeation chromatography, and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Behavioral despair tests were conducted to rapidly assess and compare their antidepressant-like effects in mice. Subsequently, behavioral despair mice and foot-shock mice were established to thoroughly explore the impact of HPP2 on depression-like and PTSD-like symptoms. The effects of HPP2 on cerebral pathological changes, neurotrophic factors, and gut microbiota in foot-shock mice were detected through hematoxylin & eosin staining, immunofluorescence staining, and 16S rDNA (V3 + V4 regions) gene sequencing. Results: HPP1 and HPP2 are predominantly composed of arabinose, glucose, galactose, mannose, and galacturonic acid. The molecular weight distribution of HPP1 ranges from 1133 to 67,278 Da, whereas that of HPP2 extends from 1493 to 38,407 Da. Acute pre-treatment with HPP1 or HPP2 (200 mg/kg, i.g.) could reduce mice’s immobility in behavioral despair tests, with HPP2 exhibiting superior efficacy. Additionally, both acute and sub-chronic pre-treatment with HPP2 (50, 200, and 800 mg/kg, i.g.) effectively alleviated depression-like symptoms in behavioral despair mice. Prolonged pre-treatment with HPP2 (200 mg/kg, i.g.) also mitigated the slow increase in body weight and behavioral abnormalities in foot-shock mice. Furthermore, HPP2 (200 mg/kg) successfully restored hippocampal histomorphological abnormalities, neurotrophic disturbance, and dysregulation of the gut microbiota in foot-shock mice. Conclusions: HPP2 exerts noteworthy antidepressant-like and anti-PTSD-like impact in mouse models via multiple targets, indicating a potential therapeutic candidate in depression and PTSD therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

18 pages, 2772 KB

Open AccessReview

Dietary (−)-Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG): State-of-the-Art Advances in Bioactivities, Bioavailability Enhancement Strategies, and Applications in Nutrition and Health

by Li Niu, Yisi Luo, Weiwen Xie, Chao Wang and Zhonghua Liu

Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020317 - 19 Jan 2026

Viewed by 436

Abstract

(−)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a major polyphenolic compound in tea leaves, exhibits potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Despite its therapeutic potential, poor bioavailability limits clinical efficacy. This review comprehensively examines the sources, and multifunctional bioactivities of EGCG, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardiovascular protective, metabolic regulatory, neuroprotective, gut microbiota-modulating, and antimicrobial properties. Traditional and emerging applications of EGCG are summarized from different perspectives. Strategies to enhance bioavailability such as nanotechnology, chemical modification, and combination drug regimens are highlighted. Based on existing human clinical trials, recommendations for effective and safe dosage ranges of EGCG intake are provided. By analyzing the current situation, providing reasonable opinions and making outlooks, the clinical value of EGCG will be fully released, which will ultimately promote human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 3129 KB

Open AccessReview

From Traditional Medicinal Plant to Modern Pharmacotherapy: A Comprehensive Review of the Bioactive Compounds and Health Applications of Eucommia ulmoides

by Wanting Xie, Yubo Xiao, Pan Xu, Hui Zheng, Xianping Zeng, Yuhang Wu, Jiani Jiang, Fan Jia, Jianye Yan, Tao Zheng and Yong Yang

Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020234 - 12 Jan 2026

Viewed by 383

Abstract

Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. (E. ulmoides), an endemic tree species in China, holds significant value in traditional Chinese medicine industry and health food. The plant is rich in diverse bioactive compounds, including lignans, iridoids, flavonoids, polysaccharides, E. ulmoides gum, amino acids, and minerals. These components contribute to a range of pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, and bone-protective effects, which support its long-standing traditional use and emerging clinical and adjunctive applications. While current research has predominantly focused on the bark and leaves, other parts, such as flowers, seeds, stems and roots, remain underexplored despite their substantial potential for medicinal and edible applications. Based on the recent literature, this paper systematically summarized the chemical composition, health benefits, and comprehensive utilization of different parts of E. ulmoides (bark, leaves, flowers, and seeds), aiming to provide a theoretical foundation for the high-value utilization of the entire plant resources of E. ulmoides. As a health-promoting plant resource, E. ulmoides has extensive development potential in applications such as health foods, natural medicines, and agricultural inputs. Future research should prioritize elucidating the synergistic mechanisms among different active compounds, advancing technologies for multi-part utilization, and establishing standardized quality evaluation systems to facilitate broader applications in functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and related interdisciplinary fields. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 305 KB

Open AccessReview

Prickly Pear and Fibromyalgia: A Conceptual Protocol for Plant-Based Symptom Management

by Orly Sarid, Orli Grinstein-Cohen and Noemi Tel-Zur

Nutrients 2025, 17(21), 3441; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17213441 - 31 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1013

Abstract

Nutrition is being increasingly recognized as a modifiable adjuvant factor in symptom management, yet few studies have examined the direct contribution of fruit consumption to chronic disease outcomes. The existing research largely emphasizes broad dietary patterns or isolated nutrients, rather than specific fruit species and their complex bioactive profiles. This gap is particularly evident in conditions lacking disease-specific pharmacological treatments, such as fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), where patients often depend on lifestyle adjustments and complementary strategies for symptom relief. The therapeutic use of fruits presents methodological challenges, as their biochemical composition is strongly influenced by abiotic and biotic stresses, seasonal and regional variations, as well as post-harvest handling and storage. Such variability complicates reproducibility and obscures causal links in clinical research. While reductionist approaches that isolate single compounds offer dose control, they risk losing synergistic effects inherent to whole fruits. Conversely, whole-fruit consumption preserves integrative complexity but introduces variability. Overcoming these limitations requires rigorous standardization across agricultural, nutritional, and clinical domains, accurate species and cultivar identification, controlled cultivation conditions, chemical fingerprinting, and biomarker validation. In this context, cacti fruits such as Opuntia ficus-indica (prickly pear), which is rich in betalains and polyphenols, emerge as promise adjuvant agents for FMS symptom management. We propose a protocol designed to systematically evaluate their efficacy and feasibility in clinical application, aiming to strengthen the reliability and accuracy of research outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 753 KB

Open AccessReview

Tracing the Path from Obesity to Diabetes: How S-Allyl Cysteine Shapes Metabolic Health

by Federica Geddo, Susanna Antoniotti, Giulia Querio and Maria Pia Gallo

Nutrients 2025, 17(21), 3394; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17213394 - 29 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1306

Abstract

Background: Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is a multifactorial condition characterized by insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and abdominal obesity, which collectively increase the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. Lifestyle modification represents the first-line strategy in its management, whereas pharmacological interventions are complex and typically require long-term polypharmacotherapy. In this context, natural bioactive compounds with pleiotropic effects are gaining increasing attention. Among these, S-allyl cysteine (SAC), the major sulfur-containing compound derived from black garlic, has been identified as a promising candidate due to its well-documented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Methods: This narrative review examines the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying MetS and summarizes current evidence on the protective role of SAC against key pathological features of this condition, including oxidative stress, inflammation, glucose and lipid dysmetabolism, endothelial dysfunction, and gut microbiota alterations. Results: Preclinical studies indicate that SAC counteracts lipid accumulation, insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, and gut dysbiosis through multiple mechanisms, including hydrogen sulfide release, reactive oxygen species scavenging, inhibition of advanced glycation end products, and modulation of metabolic pathways. Conclusions: SAC emerges as a promising nutraceutical for the prevention and management of MetS and its complications. This underscores the broader relevance of nutraceuticals as promising tools in mitigating metabolic dysfunctions and reducing the burden of cardiometabolic diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Bioactive Ingredients in Plants Related to Human Health—2nd Edition

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