Search Results (873)

The escalating global challenges of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and cancer necessitate innovative therapeutic solutions from natural sources. This study investigated the multifaceted therapeutic potential of pigment-enriched plant extracts. We screened diverse plant extracts for antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi. Hibiscus sabdariffa emerged as the most promising, demonstrating potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial and significant antibiofilm activity. Sub-inhibitory concentrations of H. sabdariffa robustly downregulated essential bacterial virulence genes and suppressed aflatoxin gene expression. Comprehensive chemical profiling via HPLC identified major anthocyanin glucosides, while GC-MS revealed diverse non-pigment bioactive compounds, including fatty acids and alcohols. Molecular docking suggested favorable interactions of key identified compounds (Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and 1-Deoxy-d-arabitol) with E. coli outer membrane protein A (OmpA), indicating potential antiadhesive and antimicrobial mechanisms. Furthermore, H. sabdariffa exhibited selective cytotoxicity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. These findings establish H. sabdariffa pigment-enriched extract as a highly promising, multi-functional source of novel therapeutics, highlighting its potential for simultaneously addressing drug resistance and cancer challenges through an integrated chemical, biological, and computational approach. Full article

Poliovirus represents an oncolytic agent for human glioblastoma—one of the most aggressive types of cancer. Since interference of viruses with metabolic and redox pathways is often linked to their pathogenesis, drugs targeting metabolic enzymes are regarded as potential enhancers of oncolysis. Our goal was to reveal an imprint of poliovirus on the metabolism of glioblastoma cell lines and to assess the dependence of the virus on these pathways. Using GC-MS, HPLC, and Seahorse techniques, we show that poliovirus interferes with amino acid, purine and polyamine metabolism, mitochondrial respiration, and glycolysis. However, many of these changes are cell line- and culture medium-dependent. 2-Deoxyglucose, the pharmacologic inhibitor of glycolysis, was shown to enhance the cytopathic effect of poliovirus, pointing to its possible repurposing as an enhancer of oncolysis. Inhibitors of polyamine biosynthesis, pyruvate import into mitochondria, and fatty acid oxidation exhibited antiviral activity, albeit in a cell-dependent manner. We also demonstrate that poliovirus does not interfere with the production of superoxide anions or with levels of H₂O₂, showing an absence of oxidative stress during infection. Finally, we showed that a high rate of poliovirus replication is associated with fragmentation of the mitochondrial network, pointing to the significance of these organelles for the virus. Full article

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

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized by bioreduction using lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) essential oil against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria isolated from an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Methods: The essential oil was extracted and characterized by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antioxidant activity was assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay, the 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assay, and total phenolic content. AgNPs (3 mM and 6 mM silver nitrate) were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Bacterial isolates were obtained from ICU surfaces and personal protective equipment (PPE). Results: The essential oil presented citral A, citral B, and β-myrcene as major components (97.5% of identified compounds). AgNPs at 3 mM showed smaller size (87 nm), lower Polydispersity Index (0.14), and higher colloidal stability (−23 mV). The 6 mM formulation (147 nm; PDI 0.91; −10 mV) was more effective against a strain of Enterococcus spp. resistant to all antibiotics tested. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of O–H, C=O, and C–O groups involved in nanoparticle stabilization. Discussion: The higher antimicrobial efficacy of the 6 mM formulation was attributed to the greater availability of active AgNPs. Conclusions: The green synthesis of AgNPs using C. citratus essential oil proved effective against MDR bacteria and represents a sustainable and promising alternative for microbiological control in healthcare environments. Full article

This study provides an assessment of BTEX compounds—benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene isomers—in urban precipitation collected in the city of Novi Sad, Republic of Serbia, during autumn and winter 2024, analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). By combining chemical analysis with meteorological observations and HYSPLIT backward trajectory modeling, the study considers the mechanisms of BTEX removal from the atmosphere via wet scavenging and highlights the role of local weather conditions and long-range atmospheric transport in pollutant concentrations. During the early observation period (September to late November), average concentrations were 0.45 µg/L benzene, 3.45 µg/L ethylbenzene, 4.0 µg/L p-xylene, 2.31 µg/L o-xylene, and 1.32 µg/L toluene. These values sharply dropped to near-zero levels in December for benzene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes, while toluene persisted at 1.12 µg/L. A pronounced toluene spike exceeding 6 µg/L on 28 November was likely driven by transboundary air mass transport from Central Europe, as confirmed by trajectory modeling. The environmental risks posed by BTEX deposition, especially from toluene and xylenes, underline the need for regulatory frameworks to include precipitation as a pathway for pollutant deposition. It should be clarified that the identified risk primarily concerns aquatic organisms, due to the potential for BTEX infiltration into surface waters and subsequent ecotoxicological impacts. Incorporating such monitoring into EU policies can improve protection of air, water, and ecosystems. Full article

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; p_adj = 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

The aims of the current study were to characterize the natural compounds of Salsola tragus via GC-MS and determine its effects as a forage source on lamb growth, in vitro rumen fermentation kinetics, carcass quality, cellular damage, and metabolomic meat interaction. Twenty-one Rambouillet lambs were randomly assigned to one of three experimental diets (seven lambs per treatment): (1) a control diet (W/o-Salsola) containing 300 g/Kg dry matter (DM) of sorghum stover; (2) a diet with a medium inclusion of Salsola tragus (15-Salsola), which contained 150 g/Kg DM of Salsola tragus and 150 g/Kg DM of sorghum stover; and (3) a diet comprising 300 g/Kg of Salsola tragus (30-Salsola). The results showed there were no differences (p > 0.05) in lamb growth performance during the fattening phase. The in vitro gas analysis demonstrated that the 30-Salsola treatment increased lag time h⁻¹ (p < 0.05) and reduced gas production (p = 0.03). The metabolomic analysis findings suggest that the treatments that included Salsola tragus significantly positively affect the metabolomic composition of meat (p < 0.05). The use of 15-Salsola as a source of forage is promising for feeding lambs during the fattening phase. Full article

Aroma is an important indicator for evaluating the quality of baijiu. In this study, we determined the aroma-active compounds in four representative brands of strong-aroma baijiu from Sichuan and Jianghuai regions through GC-MS/O, and GC-TOF-MS quantification. In addition, the non-volatile composition of four baijiu samples was quantified by BSTFA derivatization and GC-MS. By constructing a full recombination model containing both volatile and non-volatile components, the effect of different groups of non-volatile compounds on the aroma of strong-aroma baijiu was evaluated through recombination-omission tests. A total of 72 aroma-active compounds and 59 non-volatile compounds were identified and quantified. The results indicated that pyrazines, furfural, and furan derivatives displayed higher aroma intensities in strong-aroma baijiu produced in Sichuan compared to that produced in Jianghuai. The recombination model that included both aroma-active and non-volatile compounds showed a closer resemblance to the original baijiu samples, underscoring the critical role these compounds play in shaping the dominant aroma profile of strong-aroma baijiu. Non-volatile compounds significantly influenced six aroma attributes: fruity, sweet, sauce, pit, acidic, and alcoholic notes. Omission tests revealed that among posorly volatile organic acids, monobasic acids had distinct effects on the aroma profile, while dibasic acids did not show any noticeable influence on the sensory characteristics. Full article

The characteristics and complexity of Baijiu are inseparable from the promotion of aging. While the impact of compounds such as alcohols, esters, and acids on the aroma of aged Baijiu has been extensively studied, the role of other trace compounds in the aging process should not be overlooked. To further investigate the relationship between volatile compounds and the aging of Nongxiangxing Baijiu, sensomics research methods were employed to analyze profiles of young and aged Nongxiangxing Baijiu. In this study, a total of 94 aroma compounds were analyzed in both young and aged Nongxiangxing Baijiu by GC-O/MS. Among these, 12 aroma compounds significantly associated with the aging process were identified by quantification and odor activity values (OAVs). Furthermore, the omission tests result showed that 4-methyl-2-methoxyphenol (2066.79 μg/L), benzaldehyde (3860.30 μg/L), β-phenylethanol (5638.85 μg/L), 3-(methylsulfanyl)propan-1-ol (8.82 μg/L), 3-(methylsulfanyl)propanal (15.91 μg/L), and linalool (17.36 μg/L) were key aroma compounds of aged Nongxiangxing Baijiu. This study reveals that trace compounds contribute to the distinct aroma complexity of aged Nongxiangxing Baijiu, providing a foundation to support aging process analysis. Full article

The restoration of gold leaf on sandstone sculptures requires structural stability, aesthetic considerations, and compliance with the principles of cultural heritage preservation. A primary issue is achieving visual and material compatibility between newly restored and original areas. Based on the “Diagnosis–Analysis–Selection–Restoration” methodology, the research team developed a targeted restoration approach for gilded stone sculptures, using the Shakyamuni sculpture at Erfo Temple in Chongqing as a case study. Assessment of the current situation revealed that over 70% of the sculpture’s surface exhibited gold leaf delamination. The composition and structure of the gold-sizing lacquer, lacquer plaster filler, ground layers, and pigments were investigated using SEM-EDS, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, and THM-Py-GC/MS techniques. The results confirmed that the sculpture featured a typical multilayer gilding structure with clear evidence of historical restorations. Considering both material performance and interfacial compatibility, an NHL2/SiO₂/SF016 composite emulsion and traditional lacquer plaster were selected as the optimal materials for reattachment and infill, respectively. A scientific restoration protocol was developed, encompassing gentle cleaning, targeted reattachment and reinforcement, and region-specific repair methods. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to evaluate the influence of temperature and humidity on the curing behavior of lacquer layers. Additionally, a non-invasive gold leaf color-matching technique was developed by controlling the surface roughness of the gold-sizing lacquer, effectively avoiding the damage caused by traditional color-matching methods. Full article

Liver fibrosis remains a critical health concern with limited therapeutic options. Kaempferol (Kae) is a natural flavonoid widely present in natural plants, yet its role in modulating gut–liver axis interactions during fibrosis is unexplored. This study investigates the hepatoprotective effects of Kae on alleviating carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced liver fibrosis, and its underlying mechanisms, focusing on oxidative stress, gut microbiota, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), are revealed. A mouse model of hepatic fibrosis was built by the subcutaneous injection of CCl₄. Meanwhile, Kae was administered by gavage at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg body weight. Serum biomarkers, liver histopathology, oxidative damage markers, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)/heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) signaling were analyzed. AML12 hepatocytes were pretreated with Kae or SCFAs (acetate, propionate, butyrate) before H₂O₂-induced oxidative injury. The changes in gut microbiota and the levels of SCFAs were assessed via 16S rRNA sequencing and GC-MS, respectively. Kae effectively alleviated the destruction of the liver morphology and tissue structure, reduced the infiltration of inflammatory cells, collagen deposition in the liver, and the expression of fibrotic factors, and downregulated the oxidative stress level in the liver of mice with liver fibrosis by activating the Nrf2/Keap1/HO-1 pathway (p < 0.05 or 0.01). In vitro, Kae significantly mitigated H₂O₂-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative damage (p < 0.05 or 0.01). Furthermore, Kae restored gut microbiota diversity, increased beneficial genera (e.g., Lactobacillus), and elevated both intestinal and hepatic SCFA levels (p < 0.01). The discrepant SCFA pretreatment similarly protected AML12 cells by activating Nrf2 signaling (p < 0.05 or 0.01). Our research suggests that Kae could inhibit CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis by restoring the levels of intestinal metabolite SCFAs to reduce oxidative damage. Full article

In recent decades, heavy metal pollution has become a significant environmental stress factor. Plants are characterized by high biochemical plasticity and can adjust their metabolism to ensure survival under a changing environment. Here we report, to our knowledge, the first gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)-based metabolomics study of Zn-induced stress responses in Amaranthus caudatus plants. The study was performed with root and leaf aqueous methanolic extracts after their lyophilization and sequential derivatization with methoxylamine hydrochloride and N-methyl-N-(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide. In total, 419 derivatives were detected in the samples, and 144 of them could be putatively annotated. The metabolic shifts in seven-week-old A. caudatus plants in response to a seven-day treatment with 300 µmol/L ZnSO₄·7H₂O in nutrient solution were organ-specific and more pronounced in roots. Most of the responsive metabolites were up-regulated and dominated by sugars and sugar acids. The revealed effects could be attributed to the involvement of these metabolites in osmotic regulation, antioxidant protection and Zn²⁺ complexation. A 59-fold up-regulation of gluconic acid in roots distinctly indicated enhanced glucose oxidation due to oxidative stress upon the Zn treatment. Gluconic acid might be further employed in Zn²⁺ complexation. Pronounced Zn-induced up-regulation of salicylic acid in roots and shoots suggested a key role of this hormone in stress signaling and activation of Zn stress tolerance mechanisms. Overall, our study provides the first insight into the general trends of Zn-induced biochemical rearrangements and main adaptive metabolic shifts in A. caudatus. Full article

Background/Objectives: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) represents an increased metabolic risk in future life for both mother and child. We hypothesize free fatty acids (FFAs) and amino acids (AAs) disturbances in plasma during second trimester might be indicating high risk of persisting glucose intolerance (PGI). The aim of study was to determine plasma FFAs and AAs during pregnancy in women with normal pregnancy and GDM and also in post-GDM women with PGI after delivery and to find potential association of altered FFAs and AAs profile with adverse peripartal outcomes and PGI after GDM. Material and Methods: A total of 54 pregnant women were included in the study. Of those 34 participants had GDM. PGI was diagnosed by oGTT up to one year after delivery. Plasma FFAs were determined using GC-FID and plasma AAs levels were determined using CE-MS method. Results: Decreased levels of tetradecanoic acid and several AAs were found in GDM group during pregnancy. Oleic and docosahexaenoic acid correlated positively while almost all AAs negatively correlated with oGTT values in the pregnancy (all p < 0.05, Spearman). Logistic regression model (using AAs, FFAs and BMI) identified higher citrulline and glutamate levels and lower tetradecenoic acid and choline as the best predictors for postpartum PGI. Some differences in AA levels were detected in women with macrosomic babies. Conclusions: Data support a possible link between GDM development and PGI after delivery and selected metabolite levels. The predictive potential of plasma FFAs and AAs levels on a diabetes risk in future life requires further validation. Full article

The evaluation of aroma-active profiles in dry-cured hams is crucial for determining quality, flavor, consumer acceptance, and economic value. This study characterized the volatile compounds in five varieties of dry-cured hams using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry-olfactometry (GC-MS-O) and an electronic nose (E-Nose). In total, 78 volatile compounds were identified across five varieties of dry-cured hams. A total of 29 compounds were recognized as aroma-active compounds. Odor description, intensity, and hedonic assessment were employed to evaluate these compounds. Black Hoof Cured Ham and Special-grade Xuan-Zi Ham contained higher levels of favorable compounds such as nonanal, 5-butyldihydro-2(3H)-furanone, and 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, contributing to sweet and popcorn-like notes. In contrast, Fei-Zhong-Wang Ham and Liang-Tou-Wu Ham exhibited higher proportions of off-odor compounds with lower hedonic scores. A principal component analysis clearly separated the five hams based on their aroma-active profiles, and a correlation analysis between E-Nose sensor responses and GC-MS-O data demonstrated a strong discriminatory ability for specific samples. These findings offer valuable insights into the chemical and sensory differentiation of dry-cured hams and provide a scientific basis for quality control, product development, and future improvements in E-Nose sensor design and intelligent aroma assessment. Full article

Background/Objectives: Medicinal plants such as Santolina chamaecyparissus L., an evergreen shrub from the Asteraceae family, have long been valued for their bioactive compounds and traditional therapeutic uses. Materials: In this study, the essential oil of S. chamaecyparissus (EOSC) was isolated via hydrodistillation and then comprehensively evaluated for its phytochemical composition and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hemolytic, and cytotoxic properties, as well as its in silico bioactivity. Results: In total, 89.5% of the essential oil composition was successfully identified using GC-MS analysis. Hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes constituted the largest fraction (36.0%), followed by oxygenated sesquiterpenes (19.7%). Phytochemical screening revealed high phenolic content (839.50 ± 5.0 mg GAE/g E.O), while the Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) assay confirmed its strong antioxidant potential. The oil showed moderate hemolytic activity and significant lipoxygenase inhibition, indicating anti-inflammatory capability. The cytotoxic effects of the EOSC were evaluated using the MTT assay and HepG2 liver cancer cells. A dose-dependent reduction in cell viability was observed, confirming the oil’s strong anticancer activity. Molecular docking and ADMET analyses supported the bioactivity of the identified compounds, which showed good drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic properties. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that EOSC has promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting that it could have potential as a safe natural substance for use in drug development and food preservation. Full article