Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
6.1
4.3
Journals
Pharmaceuticals
Special Issues
Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the...
share announcement

Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens

A special issue of Pharmaceuticals (ISSN 1424-8247). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural Products".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 February 2025) | Viewed by 21334

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Anna Duda-Madej

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Chałubińskiego 4, 50-368 Wrocław, Poland
Interests: flavonoid; natural compounds; biological activity; anticancer activity; antioxidant activity; chalcone; multidrug-resistant pathogens; food science; antimicrobial agents; cytotoxicity assays; amyloid; Crohn’s disease; AIEC; biofilm
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The problem of the resistance of bacterial strains to commercially available antibiotics keeps clinicians around the world awake at night. Therefore, the search for new compounds of natural origin is crucial in solving this problem. It is crucial that these products simultaneously protect the intestinal microbiota, which plays a huge role in maintaining the health of the entire body.     

Various extracts of natural origin show biological activity at a different levels, and at the same time have a protective effect on the intestinal microbiota. It is important to choose such chemical modifications that increase antimicrobial activity, and at the same time support our immune system and have anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties.               

Therefore, articles that compare the biological activity of pathogenic strains and/or intestinal microbiota in the presence of natural compounds/compounds used in medicine in various chemical modifications will be of interest here. Manuscripts examining the effect of plant extracts themselves and pure compounds or their combinations dominant in the plant will also be of interest.              

Extracts and their main components obtained as a result of chemical modifications and biotransformations seem to be the future in the fight against infections caused by multidrug-resistant strains.

Dr. Anna Duda-Madej
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. Pharmaceuticals 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

  • plant extract
  • natural compounds
  • multidrug-resistant strains
  • intestinal microbiota
  • chemical modyfication
  • biotransformation

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.

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (9 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

24 pages, 2317 KiB  
Article
Bioactivities and Chemotaxonomy of Four Heracleum Species: A Comparative Study Across Plant Parts
by Tugce Ince Kose, Gamze Benli Yardimci, Damla Kirci, Derya Cicek Polat, Betul Demirci, Mujde Eryilmaz and Ceyda Sibel Kilic
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(4), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18040576 - 16 Apr 2025
Viewed by 402
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study investigates the phytochemical profile, essential oil composition, and bioactivities—including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibio-film, and anti-quorum sensing (QS) activities—of four Heracleum L. species (H. crenatifolium Boiss, H. paphlagonicum Czeczott, H. sphondylium subsp. montanum Schleich. ex Gaudin, and H. pastinacifolium subsp. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study investigates the phytochemical profile, essential oil composition, and bioactivities—including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibio-film, and anti-quorum sensing (QS) activities—of four Heracleum L. species (H. crenatifolium Boiss, H. paphlagonicum Czeczott, H. sphondylium subsp. montanum Schleich. ex Gaudin, and H. pastinacifolium subsp. incanum (Boiss. & A.Huet) P.H.Davis). Methods: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified using the Folin–Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride colorimetric methods, respectively. Essential oils were extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed via Gas Chromatography–Flame Ionization Detector (GC–FID) and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS), while Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) evaluated chemical variability among the species. Antioxidant activities were assessed using DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging assays. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the broth microdilution method to determine Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values, while antibiofilm activity was evaluated using an in vitro microplate-based biofilm model against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Anti-QS activity was analyzed using a disc diffusion assay with Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC 12472 as the reporter strain. Results: It was observed that the amounts of total phenolic compounds and total flavonoids were higher in root extracts than in aerial parts extracts for the four species in this study (H. sphondylium subsp. montanum excluding phenolic content). In the analysis of essential oil, it was determined that the major component in the roots was mostly myristicin, and in the fruits it was mostly octyl acetate. Phenolic and flavonoid contents were positively correlated with antioxidant activity. Methanol and n-hexane extracts of H. pastinacifolium (aerial parts) and n-hexane extracts of H. paphlagonicum (root) exhibited notable antimicrobial activity, primarily against Gram-positive bacteria, but none of the extracts showed activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13383 or P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853. Among methanol extracts, H. pastinacifolium (aerial parts) exhibited the highest antibiofilm activity (73.2%), while H. paphlagonicum (aerial parts) showed the highest activity among n-hexane extracts (75.5%). All n-hexane extracts exhibited anti-QS activity, whereas the methanol extracts showed no activity. Conclusions: These findings underscore the chemical diversity and bioactive potential of Heracleum species, contributing to the chemotaxonomic understanding of the genus and supporting their potential applications in medicine and industry. To our knowledge, this is the first study that reveals the antibiofilm and anti-QS properties of these Heracleum species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 10702 KiB  
Article
Antimicrobial and Antiherpetic Properties of Nanoencapsulated Hypericum perforatum Extract
by Yoana Sotirova, Nadezhda Ivanova, Neli Ermenlieva, Neli Vilhelmova-Ilieva, Lora Simeonova, Miroslav Metodiev, Viliana Gugleva and Velichka Andonova
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(3), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030366 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 775
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aims to gain insights into the antimicrobial and antiherpetic activity of hyperforin-rich Hypericum perforatum L. (HP) extract using nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) as delivery platforms. Methods: Two established NLC specimens, comprising glyceryl behenate and almond oil or borage oil, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study aims to gain insights into the antimicrobial and antiherpetic activity of hyperforin-rich Hypericum perforatum L. (HP) extract using nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) as delivery platforms. Methods: Two established NLC specimens, comprising glyceryl behenate and almond oil or borage oil, and their extract-loaded counterparts (HP-NLCs) were utilized. Their minimal bactericidal/fungicidal concentrations (MBC; MFC) were investigated against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 10145, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 10031, and Candida albicans ATCC 10231. The anti-herpesvirus (HSV-1) potential was evaluated concerning antiviral and virucidal activity and impact on viral adsorption. Results: The borage oil-based extract-loaded nanodispersion (HP-NLC2) exhibited pronounced microbicidal activity against S. aureus (MBC 6.3 mg/mL), K. pneumoniae (MBC 97.7 µg/mL), and C. albicans (MFC < 48.8 µg/mL), unlike the almond oil-containing sample (HP-NLC1), which showed only weak inhibition of the fungal growth. HP-NLC2 was found to be less cytotoxic and to suppress HSV-1 replication slightly more than HP-NLC1, but generally, the effects were weak. Neither the empty lipid nanoparticles nor the HP extract-loaded carriers expressed activity against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, the HSV-1 extracellular virions, or viral adhesion. Conclusions: It could be concluded that both HP-NLC samples revealed only minor antiherpetic potential of the hyperforin-rich extract, but HP-NLC2 demonstrated significant antibacterial and antimycotic activity. Therefore, the latter was featured as a more convenient HP-carrier system for nano-designed dermal pharmaceutical formulations. Such a thorough investigation of hyperforin-determined anti-HSV-1 effects and antibacterial and antimycotic properties, being the first of its kind, contributes to the fundamental knowledge of HP and reveals new perspectives for the utilization, limitations, and therapeutic designation of its non-polar components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 2603 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Evaluation of Rosemary Essential Oil: GC-MS Profiling, Antibacterial Synergy, and Biofilm Inhibition
by Daniel E. K. Kabotso, David Neglo, Sarah E. Gaba, Emmanuel K. Danyo, Alberta D. Dayie, Anastasia A. Asantewaa, Fleischer C. N. Kotey and Nicholas T. K. D. Dayie
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(12), 1653; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17121653 - 8 Dec 2024
Viewed by 2086
Abstract
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become precarious, warranting investments in antimicrobial discovery. Aim: To investigate the antibacterial activity of rosemary essential oil (REO), alone and in combination with selected conventional antibiotics. Methods: REO was subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing (including minimum bactericidal concentration [...] Read more.
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become precarious, warranting investments in antimicrobial discovery. Aim: To investigate the antibacterial activity of rosemary essential oil (REO), alone and in combination with selected conventional antibiotics. Methods: REO was subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing (including minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination) and investigation of anti-pre-biofilm and antibiofilm activities. Results: The phytochemical composition of the REO was eucalyptol (42.68%), bornanone (33.20%), endo-borneol (9.37%), α-terpeneol (7.95%), linalool (2.10%), bornyl acetate (1.81%), caryophyllene (1.09%), 4-terpeneol (0.94%), and anethole (0.87%). The antibacterial inhibition zones generally increased with increasing REO concentration (i.e., 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 mg/mL). The MIC and MBC ranges of REO for all bacteria were 3.13–6.25 mg/mL and 3.12–12.5 mg/mL, respectively. The MICs (in µg/mL) of ciprofloxacin, chloramphenicol, streptomycin, tetracycline, and ampicillin, respectively, were Escherichia coli (0.98, 3.92, 1.96, 7.81, and 250), Klebsiella pneumoniae (1.25, 7.81, 125, 7.81, and 1000), MRSA (62.5, 7.81, 3.91, 7.81, and 250), Streptococcus mutans and Bacillus subtilis (125, 15.68, 250, 31.25, and 1000), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (125, 31.25, 500, 31.25, and 1000), and Salmonella Typhi (0.98, 15.68, 125, 1.96, and 1000). The MBC-MIC ratios of REO against all bacteria were in the range 1–2, indicating bactericidal effects. Mainly synergy (FICI = 0.16–0.37) was observed between REO and the conventional antibiotics. The IC50 values (in µg/mL) of REO against the bacteria, pre-biofilm vs. biofilm formation, were E. coli (1342.00 vs. 4.00), K. pneumoniae (106.00 vs. 3.00), MRSA (134.00 vs. 6.00), S. mutans (7259.00 vs. 7.00), B. subtilis (120.00 vs. 7.00), P. aeruginosa (4989.00 vs. 7.00), and S. Typhi (10.00 vs. 2.00). Conclusions: Rosemary essential oil had significant bactericidal effects on the bacteria tested, and its MIC and MBC values were low. Overall, it was synergistic with known conventional antibiotics and, thus, has encouraging prospects in combination therapy involving conventional antibiotics, even in the treatment of infections with multidrug-resistant bacteria, including biofilm-forming ones. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

42 pages, 6363 KiB  
Article
Phytochemical Analysis and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Essential Oils and Seed Extracts of Anethum graveolens from Southern Morocco: In Vitro and In Silico Approach for a Natural Alternative to Synthetic Preservatives
by Nadia Hadi, Aziz Drioiche, El Moumen Bouchra, Soukayna Baammi, Abdelaaty Abdelaziz Shahat, Imane Tagnaout, Mohamed Radi, Fidaous Remok, Amal Bouzoubaa and Touriya Zair
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(7), 862; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17070862 - 1 Jul 2024
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2757
Abstract
Anethum graveolens is an aromatic plant traditionally used as an antispasmodic and carminative. The objective of this study is to analyze the chemical composition of the essential oils and extracts obtained from seeds gathered in Errachidia, southern Morocco. Additionally, the antioxidant and antimicrobial [...] Read more.
Anethum graveolens is an aromatic plant traditionally used as an antispasmodic and carminative. The objective of this study is to analyze the chemical composition of the essential oils and extracts obtained from seeds gathered in Errachidia, southern Morocco. Additionally, the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of these oils and extracts will be evaluated. GC-MS analysis of the EO isolated by hydrodistillation revealed that its main compounds were E-anethole (38.13%), estragole (29.32%), fenchone (17.21%), and α-pinene (7.37%). The phenolic components were extracted using the methods of decoction and Soxhlet. The assay of the phenolic compounds showed that A. graveolens seeds contained considerable amounts of polyphenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins, with variable levels depending on the extract analyzed. HPLC/UV-ESI-MS analyses performed on the decoction revealed a structural diversity of the molecules present in this extract, the most important of which were umbelliferone (12.35%), 3-hydroxyflavone (11.23%), rosmanol (8.95%), biotin (8.36%), emmotin H (4.91%), and coumarin (4.21%). The antioxidant activity, as determined by three techniques (DPPH•, FRAP, and CAT), demonstrated that the essential oils (EOs) and extracts had a potent capacity to counteract detrimental free radicals, control the generation of reactive oxygen species, and mitigate oxidative damages. The antimicrobial activity of the Eos and extracts was carried out in a liquid medium against five strains (E. cloacae, K. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. aureus, and S. epidermidis) and four candidiasis (C. albicans, C. dubliniensis, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis) and Aspergillus niger. The results showed the effectiveness of the EOs compared to the aqueous, ethanolic, and decoction extracts against most of the microorganisms tested. In addition, the ethanolic extract showed antifungal activity that was distinguished from that of the other extracts. The antimicrobial efficacy of the essential oils under study can primarily be attributed to the synergistic interactions among its three principal constituents (E-anethole, estragole, and fenchone). Furthermore, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation results reveal significant interactions and stability between the selected bioactive compounds and different target proteins involved in antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Compounds like 3-hydroxyflavone, emmotin H, trans-caftaric acid, methyl rosmarinate, 1-caffeoyl-beta-D-glucose, and kaempferol exhibited better binding energies with the explored proteins, indicating their potential as antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. Finally, our findings emphasize the significance of A. graveolens seeds as a promising reservoir of advantageous health compounds that can serve as organic substitutes for the presently employed synthetic preservatives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 5523 KiB  
Article
Czech Honeydew Honeys—A Potential Source of Local Medical Honey with Strong Antimicrobial Activity
by Ludovit Pudelka, Radek Sleha, Sylva Janovska, Vera Radochova and Pavel Bostik
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(7), 840; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17070840 - 27 Jun 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1456
Abstract
An increasing resistance of microbes to antibiotics, the emergence of multidrug-resistant and extremely resistant strains, and the long time needed to develop new antibiotics are driving the search for additional sources of antibacterial agents. The aim of the study was to compare the [...] Read more.
An increasing resistance of microbes to antibiotics, the emergence of multidrug-resistant and extremely resistant strains, and the long time needed to develop new antibiotics are driving the search for additional sources of antibacterial agents. The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of Czech honeys with already available pharmaceutical agents containing medicinal honey, and to perform basic biochemical analysis of Czech samples, including detection of undesirable chemical substances. The results showed strong antibacterial activity of Czech honeydew honeys compared to the control group, especially against G+ pathogens, with an average MIC of 9.44% compared to 17.54%, and comparable activity against G− of 16.48% versus 16.66%. In addition to the strong antibacterial activity, this study confirmed the safety and quality of Czech honeys and helped to select the character of a possible source for in vivo testing and subsequent clinical trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

39 pages, 2992 KiB  
Article
Phytochemical Analysis, Biological Activities, and Molecular Docking Studies of Root Extracts from Paeonia Species in Serbia
by Petar Batinić, Aleksandra Jovanović, Dejan Stojković, Gökhan Zengin, Ilija Cvijetić, Uroš Gašić, Natalija Čutović, Mirjana B. Pešić, Danijel D. Milinčić, Tamara Carević, Aleksandar Marinković, Branko Bugarski and Tatjana Marković
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(4), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17040518 - 17 Apr 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2421
Abstract
Without being aware of their chemical composition, many cultures have used herbaceous peony roots for medicinal purposes. Modern phytopreparations intended for use in human therapy require specific knowledge about the chemistry of peony roots and their biological activities. In this study, ethanol–water extracts [...] Read more.
Without being aware of their chemical composition, many cultures have used herbaceous peony roots for medicinal purposes. Modern phytopreparations intended for use in human therapy require specific knowledge about the chemistry of peony roots and their biological activities. In this study, ethanol–water extracts were prepared by maceration and microwave- and ultrasound-assisted extractions (MAE and UAE, respectively) in order to obtain bioactive molecules from the roots of Paeonia tenuifolia L., Paeonia peregrina Mill., and Paeonia officinalis L. wild growing in Serbia. Chemical characterization; polyphenol and flavonoid content; antioxidant, multianti-enzymatic, and antibacterial activities of extracts; and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion (GID) of hot water extracts were performed. The strongest anti-cholinesterase activity was observed in PT extracts. The highest anti-ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical potential was observed in PP extracts, whereas against DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals), the best results were achieved with PO extracts. Regarding antibacterial activity, extracts were strongly potent against Bacillus cereus. A molecular docking simulation was conducted to gather insights into the binding affinity and interactions of polyphenols and other Paeonia-specific molecules in the active sites of tested enzymes. In vitro GID of Paeonia teas showed a different recovery and behavior of the individual bioactives, with an increased recovery of methyl gallate and digallate and a decreased recovery of paeoniflorin and its derivatives. PT (Gulenovci) and PP (Pirot) extracts obtained by UAE and M were more efficient in the majority of the bioactivity assays. This study represents an initial step toward the possible application of Paeonia root extracts in pharmacy, medicine, and food technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 4927 KiB  
Article
Identification of Metabolites from Catharanthus roseus Leaves and Stem Extract, and In Vitro and In Silico Antibacterial Activity against Food Pathogens
by Qazi Mohammad Sajid Jamal and Varish Ahmad
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(4), 450; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17040450 - 30 Mar 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2798
Abstract
The plant produced powerful secondary metabolites and showed strong antibacterial activities against food-spoiling bacterial pathogens. The present study aimed to evaluate antibacterial activities and to identify metabolites from the leaves and stems of Catharanthus roseus using NMR spectroscopy. The major metabolites likely to [...] Read more.
The plant produced powerful secondary metabolites and showed strong antibacterial activities against food-spoiling bacterial pathogens. The present study aimed to evaluate antibacterial activities and to identify metabolites from the leaves and stems of Catharanthus roseus using NMR spectroscopy. The major metabolites likely to be observed in aqueous extraction were 2,3-butanediol, quinic acids, vindoline, chlorogenic acids, vindolinine, secologanin, and quercetin in the leaf and stem of the Catharanthus roseus. The aqueous extracts from the leaves and stems of this plant have been observed to be most effective against food spoilage bacterial strains, followed by methanol and hexane. However, leaf extract was observed to be most significant in terms of the content and potency of metabolites. The minimum inhibitory concentration (20 µg/mL) and bactericidal concentrations (35 g/mL) of leaf extract were observed to be significant as compared to the ampicillin. Molecular docking showed that chlorogenic acid and vindolinine strongly interacted with the bacterial penicillin-binding protein. The docking energies of chlorogenic acid and vindolinine also indicated that these could be used as food preservatives. Therefore, the observed metabolite could be utilized as a potent antibacterial compound for food preservation or to treat their illness, and further research is needed to perform. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1865 KiB  
Article
HPLC-DAD Analysis and Investigation of Biological Properties of the Leaves of Globularia alypum (L.), Infusion Extract
by Sahar Nouir, Aicha Laouani, Ahmed Loghmari, Khaireddine Bouassida, Raoudha Slim, Rim Bouhajeb, Yosra Hasni, Khaled Saguem, Bouraoui Ouni and Amira Zaïri
Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(12), 1726; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16121726 - 14 Dec 2023
Viewed by 2006
Abstract
Globularia alypum L. (GA) belonging to the Globulariaceae family is a Mediterranean plant which is widely used in traditional Tunisian medicine. The aim of this study was to investigate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant, anti-arthritic, antiproliferative, antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of aqueous GA leaf [...] Read more.
Globularia alypum L. (GA) belonging to the Globulariaceae family is a Mediterranean plant which is widely used in traditional Tunisian medicine. The aim of this study was to investigate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant, anti-arthritic, antiproliferative, antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of aqueous GA leaf extracts (AGAL). Quantitative analyses of the different constituents of extracts were evaluated by high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode-array detection (HPLC-DAD). Spectrophotometric methods and chemical tests were used for antioxidant and anti-arthritic activities. The antiproliferative study was evaluated using colorectal cancer SW620 cells, while the antibacterial assessment and analysis of the antibiofilm effects were determined by the microdilution method and the crystal violet assay, respectively. AGAL extracts presented several components, mainly Nepetin-7-Glucoside and trans-ferrulic acid. The results showed that they had an important antioxidant (IC50 = 0.34; 0.38 and 1.20 mg/mL) and anti-arthritic (IC50 = 2.94 mg/mL) properties, and these effects are displayed in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, this extract demonstrated significant antiproliferative (IC50 = 50 µg/mL), antibacterial (MIC = 6.25 mg/mL and MBC = 6.25 mg/mL), and antibiofilm (59.70% at 25 mg/mL) properties especially against S. aureus. The results achieved confirm the important role of this plant as a source of therapeutic activities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Review

Jump to: Research

30 pages, 1459 KiB  
Review
Is Camphor the Future in Supporting Therapy for Skin Infections?
by Anna Duda-Madej, Szymon Viscardi, Małgorzata Grabarczyk, Ewa Topola, Joanna Kozłowska, Wanda Mączka and Katarzyna Wińska
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 715; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060715 - 31 May 2024
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5047
Abstract
The aim of this review is to present the potential application of camphor—a bicyclic monoterpene ketone—in the prevention of skin infections. Skin diseases represent a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by prolonged symptoms that significantly diminish the quality of life. They affect the [...] Read more.
The aim of this review is to present the potential application of camphor—a bicyclic monoterpene ketone—in the prevention of skin infections. Skin diseases represent a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by prolonged symptoms that significantly diminish the quality of life. They affect the dermis, the epidermis, and even subcutaneous tissue. They very often have a bacterial or fungal background. Therapy for dermatological skin disorders is difficult and long-term. Therefore, it is important to find a compound, preferably of natural origin, that (i) prevents the initiation of this infection and (ii) supports the skin’s repair process. Based on its documented anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-acne, anesthetic, strengthening, and warming properties, camphor can be used as a preventative measure in dermatological infectious diseases and as a component in medical and cosmetic products. This work discusses the structure and physicochemical properties of camphor, its occurrence, and methods of obtaining it from natural sources as well as through chemical synthesis. The use of camphor in industrial preparations is also presented. Additionally, after a detailed review of the literature, the metabolism of camphor, its interactions with other medicinal substances, and its antimicrobial properties against bacteria and fungi involved in skin diseases are discussed with regard to their resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Their Modifications as Agents Used in the Fight against Pathogens)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-9
Back to TopTop