Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (2,062)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = GC/MS profile

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
21 pages, 879 KiB  
Article
Multiblock Metabolomics Responses of the Diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum Under Benthic and Planktonic Culture Conditions
by Andrea Castaldi, Mohamed Nawfal Triba, Laurence Le Moyec, Cédric Hubas, Gaël Le Pennec and Marie-Lise Bourguet-Kondracki
Mar. Drugs 2025, 23(8), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/md23080314 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the metabolic responses of the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum under different growth conditions, comparing benthic (adherent) and planktonic states. Using a multiblock metabolomics approach combining LC-HRMS2, NMR, and GC-MS techniques, we compared the metabolome of P. tricornutum cultivated [...] Read more.
This study investigates the metabolic responses of the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum under different growth conditions, comparing benthic (adherent) and planktonic states. Using a multiblock metabolomics approach combining LC-HRMS2, NMR, and GC-MS techniques, we compared the metabolome of P. tricornutum cultivated on three laboratory substrates (glass, polystyrene, and polydimethylsiloxane) and under planktonic conditions. Our results revealed metabolic differences between adherent and planktonic cultures, particularly concerning the lipid and carbohydrate contents. Adherent cultures showed a metabolic profile with an increase in betaine lipids (DGTA/S), fatty acids (tetradecanoic and octadecenoic acids), and sugars (myo-inositol and ribose), suggesting modifications in membrane composition and lipid remodeling, which play a potential role in adhesion. In contrast, planktonic cultures displayed a higher content of cellobiose, specialized metabolites such as dihydroactinidiolide, quinic acid, catechol, and terpenes like phytol, confirming different membrane composition, energy storage capacity, osmoregulation, and stress adaptation. The adaptative strategies do not only concern adherent and planktonic states, but also different adherent culture conditions, with variations in lipid, amino acid, terpene, and carbohydrate contents depending on the physical properties of the support. Our results highlight the importance of metabolic adaptation in adhesion, which could explain the fouling process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Omics for Drug Discovery and Development, 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

33 pages, 2605 KiB  
Article
Phytochemical Profile, Vasodilatory and Biphasic Effects on Intestinal Motility, and Toxicological Evaluation of the Methanol and Dichloromethane Extracts from the Aerial Parts of Ipomoea purpurea Used in Traditional Mexican Medicine
by Valeria Sánchez-Hernández, Francisco J. Luna-Vázquez, María Antonieta Carbajo-Mata, César Ibarra-Alvarado, Alejandra Rojas-Molina, Beatriz Maruri-Aguilar, Pedro A. Vázquez-Landaverde and Isela Rojas-Molina
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1134; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081134 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 169
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular diseases, particularly hypertension, and gastrointestinal disorders represent major public health concerns in Mexico. Although a range of pharmacological treatments exists, their use is associated with adverse effects, highlighting the need for safer therapeutic alternatives. Species of the Ipomoea genus are widely [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiovascular diseases, particularly hypertension, and gastrointestinal disorders represent major public health concerns in Mexico. Although a range of pharmacological treatments exists, their use is associated with adverse effects, highlighting the need for safer therapeutic alternatives. Species of the Ipomoea genus are widely employed in Mexican traditional medicine (MTM) for their purgative, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and sedative properties. Particularly, Ipomoea purpurea is traditionally used as a diuretic and purgative; its leaves and stems are applied topically for their anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. This study aimed to determine their phytochemical composition and to evaluate the associated vasodilatory activity, modulatory effects on intestinal smooth-muscle motility, and toxicological effects of the methanolic (ME-Ip) and dichloromethane (DE-Ip) extracts obtained from the aerial parts of I. purpurea. Methods: The phytochemical composition of the ME-Ip and DE-Ip extracts of I. purpurea was assessed using UPLC-QTOF-MS and GC-MS, respectively. For both extracts, the vasodilatory activity and effects on intestinal smooth muscle were investigated using ex vivo models incorporating isolated rat aorta and ileum, respectively, whereas acute toxicity was evaluated in vivo. Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed, for the first time, the presence of two glycosylated flavonoids within the Ipomoea genus; likewise, constituents with potential anti-inflammatory activity were detected. The identified compounds in I. purpurea extracts may contribute to the vasodilatory, biphasic, and purgative effects observed in this species. The EC50 values for the vasodilatory effects of the methanolic (ME-Ip) and dichloromethane (DE-Ip) extracts were 0.80 and 0.72 mg/mL, respectively. In the initial phase of the experiments on isolated ileal tissues, both extracts induced a spasmodic (contractile) effect on basal motility, with ME-Ip exhibiting higher potency (EC50 = 27.11 μg/mL) compared to DE-Ip (EC50 = 1765 μg/mL). In contrast, during the final phase of the experiments, both extracts demonstrated a spasmolytic effect, with EC50 values of 0.43 mg/mL for ME-Ip and 0.34 mg/mL for DE-Ip. In addition, both extracts exhibited low levels of acute toxicity. Conclusions: The phytochemical profile and the vasodilatory and biphasic effects of the I. purpurea extracts explain, in part, the use of I. purpurea in MTM. The absence of acute toxic effects constitutes a preliminary step in the toxicological safety assessment of I. purpurea extracts and demonstrates their potential for the development of phytopharmaceutic agents as adjuvants for the treatment of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disorders. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 1809 KiB  
Brief Report
Fatty Acid Profile in the Liver of Mice with Early- and Late-Onset Forms of Huntington’s Disease
by Magdalena Gregorczyk, Adriana Mika, Tomasz Śledziński, Marta Tomczyk and Iwona Rybakowska
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7304; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157304 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 180
Abstract
Huntington’s disease (HD) is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration, but increasing evidence points to multisystemic involvement, including early hepatic steatosis in pediatric HD. Therefore, it is important to consider systemic alterations, particularly in liver lipid metabolism. In this study, we analyzed fatty acid (FA) [...] Read more.
Huntington’s disease (HD) is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration, but increasing evidence points to multisystemic involvement, including early hepatic steatosis in pediatric HD. Therefore, it is important to consider systemic alterations, particularly in liver lipid metabolism. In this study, we analyzed fatty acid (FA) profiles in two symptomatic HD mouse models: 2-month-old R6/2 mice representing early-onset HD and 22-month-old HdhQ150/Q150 (Hdh) mice representing late-onset HD, along with age-matched wild-type (WT) controls. FA composition in liver tissue was assessed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). In R6/2 mice, we observed increased levels of total iso-branched chain, monounsaturated, and n-6 polyunsaturated FAs compared to WT. In contrast, only a few FA species showed reduced concentrations in Hdh mice. Overall, our results indicate that R6/2 mice exhibit more pronounced alterations in hepatic FA profiles than Hdh mice, suggesting that early-onset HD may be associated with more severe peripheral metabolic dysregulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lipid Metabolism and Biomarkers in Neural and Cardiometabolic Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3857 KiB  
Article
Temporal and Sex-Dependent N-Glycosylation Dynamics in Rat Serum
by Hirokazu Yagi, Sachiko Kondo, Reiko Murakami, Rina Yogo, Saeko Yanaka, Fumiko Umezawa, Maho Yagi-Utsumi, Akihiro Fujita, Masako Okina, Yutaka Hashimoto, Yuji Hotta, Yoichi Kato, Kazuki Nakajima, Jun-ichi Furukawa and Koichi Kato
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7266; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157266 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 325
Abstract
We conducted systematic glycomic and glycoproteomic profiling to characterize the dynamic N-glycosylation landscape of rat serum, with particular focus on sex- and time-dependent variations. MALDI-TOF-MS analysis revealed that rat serum N-glycans are predominantly biantennary, disialylated complex-type structures with extensive O-acetylation [...] Read more.
We conducted systematic glycomic and glycoproteomic profiling to characterize the dynamic N-glycosylation landscape of rat serum, with particular focus on sex- and time-dependent variations. MALDI-TOF-MS analysis revealed that rat serum N-glycans are predominantly biantennary, disialylated complex-type structures with extensive O-acetylation of Neu5Ac residues, especially in females. LC-MS/MS-based glycoproteomic analysis of albumin/IgG-depleted serum identified 87 glycoproteins enriched in protease inhibitors (e.g., serine protease inhibitor A3K) and immune-related proteins such as complement C3. Temporal analyses revealed stable sialylation in males but pronounced daily fluctuations in females, suggesting hormonal influence. Neu5Gc-containing glycans were rare and mainly derived from residual IgG, as confirmed by glycomic analysis. In contrast to liver-derived glycoproteins, purified IgG exhibited Neu5Gc-only sialylation without O-acetylation, underscoring distinct sialylation profiles characteristic of B cell-derived glycoproteins. Region-specific glycosylation patterns were observed in IgG, with the Fab region carrying more disialylated structures than Fc. These findings highlight cell-type and sex-specific differences in sialylation patterns between hepatic and immune tissues, with implications for hormonal regulation and biomarker research. This study provides a valuable dataset on rat serum glycoproteins and underscores the distinctive glycosylation features of rats, reinforcing their utility as model organisms in glycobiology and disease research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glycobiology of Health and Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1990 KiB  
Article
Metabolomic Analysis of Breast Cancer in Colombian Patients: Exploring Molecular Signatures in Different Subtypes and Stages
by Lizeth León-Carreño, Daniel Pardo-Rodriguez, Andrea Del Pilar Hernandez-Rodriguez, Juliana Ramírez-Prieto, Gabriela López-Molina, Ana G. Claros, Daniela Cortes-Guerra, Julian Alberto-Camargo, Wilson Rubiano-Forero, Adrian Sandoval-Hernandez, Mónica P. Cala and Alejandro Ondo-Mendez
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7230; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157230 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 263
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a neoplasm characterized by high heterogeneity and is influenced by intrinsic molecular subtypes and clinical stage, aspects that remain underexplored in the Colombian population. This study aimed to characterize metabolic alterations associated with subtypes and disease progression in a [...] Read more.
Breast cancer (BC) is a neoplasm characterized by high heterogeneity and is influenced by intrinsic molecular subtypes and clinical stage, aspects that remain underexplored in the Colombian population. This study aimed to characterize metabolic alterations associated with subtypes and disease progression in a group of newly diagnosed, treatment-naive Colombian women using an untargeted metabolomics approach. To improve metabolite coverage, samples were analyzed using LC-QTOF-MS and GC-QTOF-MS, along with amino acid profiling. The Luminal B subtype exhibited elevated levels of long-chain acylcarnitines and higher free fatty acid concentrations than the other subtypes. It also presented elevated levels of carbohydrates and essential glycolytic intermediates, suggesting that this subtype may adopt a hybrid metabolic phenotype characterized by increased glycolytic flux as well as enhanced fatty acid catabolism. Tumor, Node, and Metastasis (TNM) staging analysis revealed progressive metabolic reprogramming of BC. In advanced stages, a sustained increase in phosphatidylcholines and a decrease in lysophosphatidylcholines were observed, reflecting lipid alterations associated with key roles in tumor progression. In early stages (I-II), plasma metabolites with high discriminatory power were identified, such as glutamic acid, ribose, and glycerol, which are associated with dysfunctions in energy and carbohydrate metabolism. These results highlight metabolomics as a promising tool for the early diagnosis, clinical follow-up, and molecular characterization of BC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Crosstalk in Breast Cancer Progression and Therapies)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

30 pages, 3043 KiB  
Article
Physiological and Phytochemical Responses of Calendula officinalis L. to End-of-Day Red/Far-Red and Green Light
by Luisa F. Lozano-Castellanos, Giuseppina Pennisi, Luis Manuel Navas-Gracia, Francesco Orsini, Eva Sánchez-Hernández, Pablo Martín-Ramos and Adriana Correa-Guimaraes
Biology 2025, 14(8), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14080935 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 225
Abstract
Calendula officinalis L. is a widely used medicinal plant whose secondary metabolism and morphology are influenced by light. This study evaluated the effects of 2 and 4 h end-of-day (EOD) red/far-red (R:FR) and green (G) light on the growth, physiology, and phytochemical profile [...] Read more.
Calendula officinalis L. is a widely used medicinal plant whose secondary metabolism and morphology are influenced by light. This study evaluated the effects of 2 and 4 h end-of-day (EOD) red/far-red (R:FR) and green (G) light on the growth, physiology, and phytochemical profile of hydroponically grown C. officinalis under a constant red/blue light background, compared with a red/blue control without EOD treatment. Morphological, physiological (gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence), biochemical (chlorophyll, anthocyanin), and chemical composition (attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)) were evaluated. EOD G 2 h enhanced photosynthetic pigments, anthocyanins, and biomass, while control plants showed higher phenolic content. EOD R:FR induced stem elongation but reduced pigment and metabolite accumulation. GC-MS revealed organ-specific metabolic specialization, with flowers displaying greater chemical diversity than leaves. EOD G favored sesquiterpene diversity in flowers, while EOD R:FR increased nitrogen-containing compounds and unsaturated fatty acids. Vibrational data supported these shifts, with spectral signatures of esters, phenolics, and lipid-related structures. Bioactive compounds, including α-cadinol and carboxylic acids, were identified across treatments. These findings demonstrate that EOD light modulates physiological and metabolic traits in C. officinalis, highlighting EOD G as an enhancer of biomass and phytochemical richness for pharmaceutical applications under controlled conditions. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

27 pages, 1179 KiB  
Article
Properties of Plant Extracts from Adriatic Maritime Zone for Innovative Food and Packaging Applications: Insights into Bioactive Profiles, Protective Effects, Antioxidant Potentials and Antimicrobial Activity
by Petra Babić, Tea Sokač Cvetnić, Iva Čanak, Mia Dujmović, Mojca Čakić Semenčić, Filip Šupljika, Zoja Vranješ, Frédéric Debeaufort, Nasreddine Benbettaieb, Emilie Descours and Mia Kurek
Antioxidants 2025, 14(8), 906; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14080906 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 234
Abstract
Knowledge about the composition (volatile and non-volatile) and functionality of natural extracts from Mediterranean plants serves as a basis for their further application. In this study, five selected plants were used for the extraction of plant metabolites. Leaves and flowers of Critmum maritimum [...] Read more.
Knowledge about the composition (volatile and non-volatile) and functionality of natural extracts from Mediterranean plants serves as a basis for their further application. In this study, five selected plants were used for the extraction of plant metabolites. Leaves and flowers of Critmum maritimum, Rosmarinus officinalis, Olea europea, Phylliera latifolia and Mellisa officinalis were collected, and a total of 12 extracts were prepared. Extractions were performed under microwave-assisted conditions, with two solvent types: water (W) and a hydroalcoholic (ethanolic) solution (HA). Detailed extract analysis was conducted. Phenolics were analyzed by detecting individual bioactive compounds using high-performance liquid chromatography and by calculating total phenolic and total flavonoid content through spectrophotometric analysis. Higher concentrations of total phenolics and total flavonoids were obtained in the hydroalcoholic extracts, with the significantly highest total phenolic and flavonoid values in the rosemary hydroalcoholic extract (3321.21 mgGAE/L) and sea fennel flower extract (1794.63 mgQE/L), respectively; and the lowest phenolics in the water extract of olive leaves (204.55 mgGAE/L) and flavonoids in the water extracts of sea fennel leaves, rosemary, olive and mock privet (around 100 mgQE/L). Volatile organic compounds (VOC) were detected using HS-SPME/GC–MS (Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction coupled with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry), and antioxidant capacity was estimated using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay) and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) methods. HS-SPME/GC–MS analysis of samples revealed that sea fennel had more versatile profile, with the presence of 66 and 36 VOCs in W and HA sea fennel leaf extracts, 52 and 25 in W and HA sea fennel flower extracts, 57 in rosemary W and 40 in HA, 20 in olive leaf W and 9 in HA, 27 in W mock privet and 11 in HA, and 35 in lemon balm W and 10 in HA extract. The lowest values of chlorophyll a were observed in sea fennel leaves (2.52 mg/L) and rosemary (2.21 mg/L), and chlorophyll b was lowest in sea fennel leaf and flower (2.47 and 2.25 mg/L, respectively), while the highest was determined in olive (6.62 mg/L). Highest values for antioxidant activity, determined via the FRAP method, were obtained in the HA plant extracts (up to 11,216 mgAAE/L for lemon balm), excluding the sea fennel leaf (2758 mgAAE/L) and rosemary (2616 mgAAE/L). Considering the application of these plants for fresh fish preservation, antimicrobial activity of water extracts was assessed against Vibrio fischeri JCM 18803, Vibrio alginolyticus 3050, Aeromonas hydrophila JCM 1027, Moraxella lacunata JCM 20914 and Yersinia ruckeri JCM 15110. No activity was observed against Y. ruckeri and P. aeruginosa, while the sea fennel leaf showed inhibition against V. fisheri (inhibition zone of 24 mm); sea fennel flower was active against M. lacunata (inhibition zone of 14.5 mm) and A. hydrophila (inhibition zone of 20 mm); and rosemary and lemon balm showed inhibition only against V. fisheri (inhibition zone from 18 to 30 mm). This study supports the preparation of natural extracts from Mediterranean plants using green technology, resulting in extracts rich in polyphenolics with strong antioxidant potential, but with no clear significant antimicrobial efficiency at the tested concentrations. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1565 KiB  
Article
Volatile Compounds Profiling of Fresh R. alba L. Blossom by Headspace—Solid Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography
by Daniela Antonova-Nedeltcheva, Ana Dobreva, Kamelia Gechovska and Liudmil Antonov
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3102; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153102 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 238
Abstract
The white oil-bearing rose (R. alba L.) is the second of the industrially important rose species for Bulgarian rose cultivation and essential oil production. In recent years, the interest in white oil-bearing rose has increased, following the worldwide trend for searching for [...] Read more.
The white oil-bearing rose (R. alba L.) is the second of the industrially important rose species for Bulgarian rose cultivation and essential oil production. In recent years, the interest in white oil-bearing rose has increased, following the worldwide trend for searching for new aromatic alternatives. Therefore, the purpose of the current research is to evaluate the volatile compounds profile of fresh R. alba L. flowers using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). More than 75 individual compounds were identified and quantified using HS-SPME-GC/MS. The study revealed that the aroma-bearing fraction of rose volatiles consists mainly of monoterpene alcohols; 2-phenylethanol was the most abundant component (8.4–33.9%), followed by geraniol (12.8–32.5%) and citronellol + nerol (17.7–26.5%). Linalool, α-pinene, β-myrcene, and rose oxides were also observed in low concentrations. The stearopten fraction in the HS phase was observed in low concentration, with main representatives nonadecane + nonadecene, heptadecane, heneicosane, and tricosane. The HS-GC profile of the R. alba fresh flowers shows distinct differences in relative abundance of the components between the two studied clones of the population, as well as between volatiles in petals and in the whole blossom. The absence of some undesirable components, such as allergenic and potentially carcinogenic methyl eugenol in fresh R. alba blossom, makes white oil-bearing rose a promising alternative to R. damascena in perfumery, natural cosmetics, and aromatherapy. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 849 KiB  
Article
Antimicrobial Activity of Greek Native Essential Oils Against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Antibiotic Resistance Strains Harboring pNorm Plasmid, mecA, mcr-1 and blaOXA Genes
by Rafail Fokas, Zoi Anastopoulou and Apostolos Vantarakis
Antibiotics 2025, 14(8), 741; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14080741 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 802
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The rapid emergence of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in food and clinical environments necessitates new, clean-label antimicrobials. This study assessed eight Greek native essential oils—oregano, thyme, dittany, rosemary, peppermint, lavender, cistus and helichrysum—for activity against six genetically and phenotypically diverse E. coli strains [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The rapid emergence of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in food and clinical environments necessitates new, clean-label antimicrobials. This study assessed eight Greek native essential oils—oregano, thyme, dittany, rosemary, peppermint, lavender, cistus and helichrysum—for activity against six genetically and phenotypically diverse E. coli strains (reference, pNorm, mecA, mcr-1, blaOXA and O157:H7). We aimed to identify oils with broad-spectrum efficacy and clarify the chemical constituents responsible. Methods: Disk-diffusion assays measured inhibition zones at dilutions from 50% to 1.56% (v/v). MIC and MBC values were determined by broth microdilution. GC–MS profiling identified dominant components, and Spearman rank-order correlations (ρ) linked composition to activity. Shapiro–Wilk tests (W = 0.706–0.913, p ≤ 0.002) indicated non-normal data, so strain comparisons used Kruskal–Wallis one-way ANOVA with Dunn’s post hoc and Bonferroni correction. Results: Oregano, thyme and dittany oils—rich in carvacrol and thymol—exhibited the strongest activity, with MIC/MBC ≤ 0.0625% (v/v) against all strains and inhibition zones > 25 mm at 50%. No strain-specific differences were detected (H = 0.30–3.85; p = 0.998–0.571; padj = 1.000). Spearman correlations confirmed that carvacrol and thymol content strongly predicted efficacy (ρ = 0.527–0.881, p < 0.001). Oils dominated by non-phenolic terpenes (rosemary, peppermint, lavender, cistus, helichrysum) showed minimal or no activity. Conclusions: Phenolic-rich EOs maintain potent, strain-independent antimicrobial effects—including against multidrug-resistant and O157:H7 strains—via a multi-target mode that overcomes classical resistance. Their low-dose efficacy and GRAS status support their use as clean-label food preservatives or adjuncts to antibiotics or bacteriophages to combat antimicrobial resistance. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 4295 KiB  
Article
Acrocomia aculeata Oil-Loaded Nanoemulsion: A Promising Candidate for Cancer and Diabetes Management
by Ariadna Lafourcade Prada, Jesus Rafael Rodríguez Amado, Renata Trentin Perdomo, Giovanna Bicudo Gomes, Danielle Ayr Tavares de Almeida, Leandro Fontoura Cavalheiro, Arquimedes Gasparotto Junior, Serafim Florentino Neto and Marco Antonio Utrera Martines
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081094 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 271
Abstract
Background: Diabetes and cancer are two of the most life-threatening disorders affecting individuals of all ages worldwide. This study aimed to develop a novel Acrocomia aculeata (bocaiuva) fruit pulp oil-loaded nanoemulsion and evaluate its inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase, as well [...] Read more.
Background: Diabetes and cancer are two of the most life-threatening disorders affecting individuals of all ages worldwide. This study aimed to develop a novel Acrocomia aculeata (bocaiuva) fruit pulp oil-loaded nanoemulsion and evaluate its inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase, as well as its antiglycant activity and cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Additionally, this study assessed the impact of both the oil and the nanoemulsion on blood cells. Methods: The pulp oil was extracted by cold pressing. The oil’s physicochemical properties were determined according to the AOAC and the Brazilian Pharmacopeia. The lipid profile was performed by GC-MS. The nanoemulsion was prepared by the phase inversion method using ultrasonic stirring for particle size reduction and for homogenization. Response Surface Methodology was used for optimizing nanoemulsion preparation. Enzyme inhibition tests were conducted using assay kits. Cytotoxicity in cancer cells was evaluated using the Sulforhodamine B assay. Results: Comprehensive physicochemical and chemical characterization of bocaiuva oil was performed, identifying oleic acid (71.25%) as the main component. The oil contains 23.04% saturated fatty acids, 73.79% monounsaturated acids, and 3.0% polyunsaturated fatty acids. The nanoemulsion (particle size 173.6 nm; zeta potential −14.10 mV) inhibited α-glucosidase (IC50: 43.21 µg/mL) and pancreatic lipase (IC50: 41.99 µg/mL), and revealed a potent antiglycation effect (oxidative IC50: 18.36 µg/mL; non-oxidative pathway IC50: 16.33 µg/mL). The nanoemulsion demonstrated good cytotoxicity and selectivity against prostate cancer cells (IC50: 19.13 µg/mL) and breast cancer cells (IC50: 27.22 µg/mL), without inducing hemolysis, platelet aggregation, or anticoagulant effects. Conclusions: In this study, a comprehensive physical and chemical characterization of bocaiuva fruit pulp oil was conducted for the first time as a preliminary step toward its future standardization as an active ingredient in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. The resulting nanoemulsion represents a novel alternative for managing diabetes and cancer. Although the nanoemulsion exhibited lower cytotoxicity compared to doxorubicin, it remains promising due to its composition of essential fatty acids, phenols, and carotenoids, which offer multiple health benefits. Further studies are needed to validate its efficacy and safety in clinical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanotechnology in Biomedical Applications)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 4338 KiB  
Article
The First Report on Agarwood Formation of Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Spreng Induced by Fusarium equiseti
by Libao Zhang, Jianglongze Yang, Ruiling Yuan, Dan Feng and Peng Chen
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2272; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152272 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 275
Abstract
Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg, the exclusive botanical source of Chinese agarwood, holds significant medicinal value. This study investigated the agarwood-inducing potential of a Fusarium strain obtained through prior isolation work. Through integrated morphological characterization and molecular phylogenetic analysis, the strain was conclusively identified [...] Read more.
Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg, the exclusive botanical source of Chinese agarwood, holds significant medicinal value. This study investigated the agarwood-inducing potential of a Fusarium strain obtained through prior isolation work. Through integrated morphological characterization and molecular phylogenetic analysis, the strain was conclusively identified as Fusarium equiseti. GC-MS analysis revealed that fungal inoculation induced the synthesis of characteristic sesquiterpenes and aromatic compounds consistent with natural agarwood profiles. Quantitative determination demonstrated progressive accumulation of agarotetrol, a key quality marker, reaching 0.034%, 0.039%, and 0.038% at 2, 4, and 6 months post-inoculation, respectively—significantly exceeding levels from physical wounding (p < 0.05) and PDA control treatments. Histological examination showed characteristic yellow-brown oleoresin deposits concentrated in the inner phloem, mirroring the anatomical features of wild-type agarwood. Critical quality parameters measured in December-harvested samples included ethanol extractives (17.69%), chromone derivatives 2-[2-(4-methoxyphenyl) ethyl] chromone, and 2-(2-phenylethyl) chromone (2.13%), all meeting or surpassing the specifications outlined in the National Standard for Agarwood Classification (LY/T 3223-2020). These comprehensive findings establish F. equiseti as a promising microbial agent for sustainable agarwood production in A. sinensis plantations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1213 KiB  
Article
Elucidating Volatile Flavor Profiles and Metabolic Pathways in Northern Pike (Esox lucius) During Superchilled Storage: A Combined UPLC-Q-TOF/MS and GC-MS Approach
by Shijie Bi, Na Li, Gao Gong, Peng Gao, Jinfang Zhu and Batuer Abulikemu
Foods 2025, 14(15), 2556; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14152556 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 266
Abstract
Temperature is the most critical factor in fish preservation. Superchilled storage represents a novel technology that effectively retards quality deterioration in aquatic products. This study investigated the flavor variation patterns and deterioration mechanisms in 16 northern pike (Esox lucius) samples during [...] Read more.
Temperature is the most critical factor in fish preservation. Superchilled storage represents a novel technology that effectively retards quality deterioration in aquatic products. This study investigated the flavor variation patterns and deterioration mechanisms in 16 northern pike (Esox lucius) samples during superchilled storage (−3 °C) based on analysis using gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS). The results indicate that GC-MS analysis identified 25 key volatile flavor compounds. These comprised seven ketones, thirteen alcohols, aldehydes including 2-methylbutanal, esters such as 2-heptyl acetate and methyl butyrate, as well as nitrogen-containing compounds, exemplified by pyrazines and indole. Non-targeted metabolomics further revealed four pivotal metabolic pathways, glycerophospholipid metabolism, purine metabolism, the pentose phosphate pathway, and arginine biosynthesis. These metabolic pathways were found to regulate flavor changes through modulation of lipid oxidation, nucleotide degradation, and amino acid metabolism. Notably, the arginine biosynthesis pathway exhibited significant correlations with the development of characteristic cold-storage off-flavors, mediated by glutamate accumulation and fumarate depletion. This investigation provided a theoretical foundation for optimizing preservation strategies in cold-water fish species at the molecular level. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Muscle Foods Preservation and Packaging Technologies)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2513 KiB  
Article
Decoding Fish Origins: How Metals and Metabolites Differentiate Wild, Cultured, and Escaped Specimens
by Warda Badaoui, Kilian Toledo-Guedes, Juan Manuel Valero-Rodriguez, Adrian Villar-Montalt and Frutos C. Marhuenda-Egea
Metabolites 2025, 15(7), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15070490 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 335
Abstract
Background: Fish escape events from aquaculture facilities are increasing and pose significant ecological, economic, and traceability concerns. Accurate methods to differentiate between wild, cultured, and escaped fish are essential for fishery management and seafood authentication. Methods: This study analyzed muscle tissue from Sparus [...] Read more.
Background: Fish escape events from aquaculture facilities are increasing and pose significant ecological, economic, and traceability concerns. Accurate methods to differentiate between wild, cultured, and escaped fish are essential for fishery management and seafood authentication. Methods: This study analyzed muscle tissue from Sparus aurata, Dicentrarchus labrax, and Argyrosomus regius using a multiomics approach. Heavy metals were quantified by ICP-MS, fatty acid profiles were assessed via GC-MS, and metabolomic and lipidomic signatures were identified using 1H NMR spectroscopy. Multivariate statistical models (MDS and PLS-LDA) were applied to classify fish origins. Results: Wild seabream showed significantly higher levels of arsenic (9.5-fold), selenium (3.5-fold), and DHA and ARA fatty acids (3.2-fold), while cultured fish exhibited increased linoleic and linolenic acids (6.5-fold). TMAO concentrations were up to 5.3-fold higher in wild fish, serving as a robust metabolic biomarker. Escaped fish displayed intermediate biochemical profiles. Multivariate models achieved a 100% classification accuracy across species and analytical techniques. Conclusions: The integration of heavy metal analysis, fatty acid profiling, and NMR-based metabolomics enables the accurate differentiation of fish origin. While muscle tissue provides reliable biomarkers relevant to human exposure, future studies should explore additional tissues such as liver and gills to improve the resolution of traceability. These methods support seafood authentication, enhance aquaculture traceability, and aid in managing the ecological impacts of escape events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Assessing Environmental Health and Function)
Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 2644 KiB  
Article
Nutraceutical Potential of Sideroxylon cinereum, an Endemic Mauritian Fruit of the Sapotaceae Family, Through the Elucidation of Its Phytochemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity
by Cheetra Bhajan, Joyce Govinden Soulange, Vijayanti Mala Ranghoo-Sanmukhiya, Remigiusz Olędzki, Daniel Ociński, Irena Jacukowicz-Sobala, Adam Zając, Melanie-Jayne R. Howes and Joanna Harasym
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 3041; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30143041 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 315
Abstract
Sideroxylon cinereum, an endemic Mauritian fruit, was investigated through comprehensive chemical analyses of solvent extracts from its pulp and seed. Dried fruit materials were subjected to maceration using water and organic solvents including methanol, ethanol, propanol, and acetone to obtain extracts of [...] Read more.
Sideroxylon cinereum, an endemic Mauritian fruit, was investigated through comprehensive chemical analyses of solvent extracts from its pulp and seed. Dried fruit materials were subjected to maceration using water and organic solvents including methanol, ethanol, propanol, and acetone to obtain extracts of varying polarity. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds, with pulp extracts generally richer in phytochemicals than seed extracts. UV-Vis and FTIR analyses confirmed key organic constituents, including sulfoxides in seeds. HPLC quantification showed notable citric acid content in the pulp (15.63 mg/g dry weight). Antioxidant assays indicated that organic solvent extracts of the pulp had superior free radical scavenging activity, while the seed’s aqueous extract exhibited the highest ferric reducing power. GC–MS profiling identified a diverse bioactive profile rich in terpenes, notably lanosterol acetate (>45% in both pulp and seeds). It is important to note that these findings are based on solvent extracts, which may differ from the phytochemical composition of the whole fruit as typically consumed. Among the extracts, aqueous fractions are likely the most relevant to dietary intake. Overall, the extracts of Sideroxylon cinereum pulp and seed show potential as sources of bioactive compounds for functional product development. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1593 KiB  
Article
South Tyrol (Italy) Pastinaca sativa L. subsp. sativa Essential Oil: GC-MS Composition, Antimicrobial, Anti-Biofilm, and Antioxidant Properties
by Daniela Di Girolamo, Natale Badalamenti, Giusy Castagliuolo, Vincenzo Ilardi, Mario Varcamonti, Maurizio Bruno and Anna Zanfardino
Molecules 2025, 30(14), 3033; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30143033 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 192
Abstract
Pastinaca L. is a small genus belonging to the Apiaceae family, traditionally used for both nutritional and medicinal purposes. Pastinaca sativa L. subsp. sativa is a biennial plant widely distributed in Europe and Asia, with recognized ethnopharmacological relevance. In this study, the essential [...] Read more.
Pastinaca L. is a small genus belonging to the Apiaceae family, traditionally used for both nutritional and medicinal purposes. Pastinaca sativa L. subsp. sativa is a biennial plant widely distributed in Europe and Asia, with recognized ethnopharmacological relevance. In this study, the essential oil (EO) obtained from the aerial parts of P. sativa subsp. sativa, collected in Alto Adige (Italy)—a previously unstudied accession—was analyzed by GC-MS, and the volatile profile has been compared with that of EOs previously studied in Bulgaria and Serbia. The EO was found to be rich in octyl acetate (38.7%) and octyl butanoate (26.7%), confirming that this species biosynthesizes these natural esters. The EO and its main constituents were tested to evaluate their antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, their biological potential was evaluated through antimicrobial, antibiofilm and antioxidant assays. This research work, in addition to evaluating possible chemotaxonomic differences at the geographical level of EOs of Pastinaca sativa subsp. sativa, has been extended to the determination of the biological properties of this accession never investigated before, with the aim of acquiring a broader vision of biofilm and antibacterial properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds from Foods for Health Benefits)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop