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Keywords = UPLC-qToF

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20 pages, 1827 KB  
Article
Effects of Citicoline-Based Supplementation on Lipid Peroxidation Markers and Sirtuin-1 Expression in Ischemic Stroke
by Todorka Sokrateva, Bogdan Roussev, Daniela V. Vankova, Deyana G. Vankova, Diana Ivanova, Mihael Tsalta-Mladenov, Darina Georgieva, Miglena N. Nikolova, Galya Mihaylova and Milka A. Nashar
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(3), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48030314 - 15 Mar 2026
Viewed by 381
Abstract
Ischemic stroke (IS) is associated with pronounced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which contribute to secondary neuronal damage. This study explored the effects of a six-month intervention with a new formulation containing citicoline, vitamin C, and extracts from green tea and aronia (Cytodeox™) [...] Read more.
Ischemic stroke (IS) is associated with pronounced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which contribute to secondary neuronal damage. This study explored the effects of a six-month intervention with a new formulation containing citicoline, vitamin C, and extracts from green tea and aronia (Cytodeox™) on arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism, lipid peroxidation assessed by total 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α), and Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) expression in healthy controls (n = 43) and patients with IS (n = 53), both with and without comorbidities. AA and 8-iso-PGF2α were quantified in serum using UPLC–MS and ELISA, respectively, and the fold change in SIRT1 expression was assessed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) by RT-qPCR. In healthy controls, Cytodeox™ significantly lowered AA and 8-iso-PGF2α levels. IS patients showed markedly increased baseline 8-iso-PGF2α, indicating severe oxidative stress. Following supplementation, 8-iso-PGF2α levels increased in patients with comorbidities, particularly diabetes mellitus (DM), whereas an exploratory analysis suggested a decreasing trend in patients without comorbidities. SIRT1 expression was significantly upregulated in IS patients, with the most pronounced increase observed in the DM subgroup, while remaining unchanged in controls. These findings suggest a protective, antioxidant, and membrane stabilising effect of Cytodeox™ under conditions of preserved or moderately impaired redox homeostasis, supporting its potential role as a preventive or early supportive intervention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Repurposing and Innovation: Drug Research in Neuroprotection)
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23 pages, 55337 KB  
Article
UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and Network Pharmacology Approaches to Explore the Active Compounds and Mechanisms of Kadsura coccinea for Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis
by Liya Qiao, Jiashui Liao, Yongchun Huang, Ping Li, Hairong Long, Lu Chen, Tingting Tong, Xiaowen Ji, Mengli Zhang, Yude Peng, Yu Pan and Xianghua Xia
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(5), 2097; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27052097 - 24 Feb 2026
Viewed by 345
Abstract
This study aimed to systematically identify the active constituents of Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A. C. Smith (KC) and elucidate their potential mechanisms in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using an integrated analytical and computational approach. Chemical profiling of KC root extract was performed by [...] Read more.
This study aimed to systematically identify the active constituents of Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A. C. Smith (KC) and elucidate their potential mechanisms in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using an integrated analytical and computational approach. Chemical profiling of KC root extract was performed by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Active compounds and their targets were predicted using the SwissTargetPrediction database, while RA-related genes were retrieved from OMIM, GeneCards, and DisGeNET. A compound–target network was constructed and analyzed via Cytoscape. Functional enrichment analyses and protein–protein interaction (PPI) clustering were conducted to identify key pathways. Molecular docking was employed to validate interactions between core compounds and key RA targets. A total of 90 compounds were identified, primarily 36 lignans and 29 triterpenoids. Network analysis revealed 145 overlapping targets between KC and RA. These targets were further associated with 65 compounds derived from KC. Key compounds such as kadcoccinone F, kadsuralignan I and schisantherin M were linked to hub targets including MAPK14, MMPs, and JAKs, which are involved in inflammatory signaling, matrix degradation, and immune regulation. Molecular docking confirmed strong binding affinities (ΔG < −5.0 kcal/mol) between representative KC compounds and targets like MMP1, MMP2, JAK2 and JAK3, supported by analyses of hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic, and π-interactions. These results suggest that KC exerts anti-RA effects through multi-component, multi-target mechanisms, primarily modulating inflammatory signaling, immune cell recruitment, and tissue-destructive pathways. This study provides a pharmacological basis for the traditional use of KC in RA management and supports its potential as a complementary therapeutic agent. Full article
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23 pages, 12097 KB  
Article
Structure Elucidation and Toxicity Analyses of the Degradation Products of Aflatoxin B1 and Zearalenone by Trichoderma reesei GG-T40
by Yixuan Wang, Lixia Fan, Guidong Li, Changying Guo, Mingxiao Ning, Bingchun Zhang, Jiangyong Qu and Xianfeng Ren
J. Fungi 2026, 12(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12010046 - 8 Jan 2026
Viewed by 566
Abstract
Mycotoxin contamination in agricultural products poses a serious challenge to food safety, severely threatening human and animal health and causing significant economic losses. This study aimed to investigate the degradation and detoxification capabilities of Trichoderma reesei GG-T40 against two representative mycotoxins—aflatoxin B1 [...] Read more.
Mycotoxin contamination in agricultural products poses a serious challenge to food safety, severely threatening human and animal health and causing significant economic losses. This study aimed to investigate the degradation and detoxification capabilities of Trichoderma reesei GG-T40 against two representative mycotoxins—aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and zearalenone (ZEN). The results showed that the degradation rates of AFB1 and ZEN by this strain reached 98.6% and 88.4%, respectively. Using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF MS), the degradation products were systematically characterized, leading to the identification of six AFB1 degradation products (C17H14O7, AFD1: C16H14O5, C11H10O4, C14H16O4, C15H10O4, and C17H14O5) and two ZEN degradation products (α-ZOL and β-ZOL). Toxicity evaluation revealed that the key toxic structures of AFB1 were disrupted, significantly reducing or even eliminating the toxicity of its degradation products; ZEN was mainly converted into β-ZOL (accounting for 91.5%), which has lower estrogenic activity. Further toxicological experiments in mice confirmed that the degradation products were non-toxic and non-pathogenic under actual testing conditions, demonstrating systematic verification of their safety. In conclusion, T. reesei GG-T40 can efficiently and safely degrade AFB1 and ZEN, showing great potential for developing green control technologies for mycotoxin contamination in food and feed raw materials, with important application value for ensuring food safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fungi in Agriculture and Biotechnology)
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30 pages, 5792 KB  
Article
Comprehensive Chemical Composition Evaluation of Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosa Germplasm Resources and Selection of Elite Cultivars for Seed, Pulp, and Leaf Utilization
by Xiaochen Song, Yongqing Zhang and Longfei Zhang
Molecules 2025, 30(22), 4470; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30224470 - 19 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1149
Abstract
Background: Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. spinosa (Bunge) Hu ex H. F. Chow. (ZS) is a valuable plant with diverse economic applications, as all its organs contain bioactive secondary metabolites. The seeds, known as Suanzaoren in traditional Chinese medicine, are utilized as both [...] Read more.
Background: Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. spinosa (Bunge) Hu ex H. F. Chow. (ZS) is a valuable plant with diverse economic applications, as all its organs contain bioactive secondary metabolites. The seeds, known as Suanzaoren in traditional Chinese medicine, are utilized as both a medicinal and edible resource, while the fruit pulp and leaves serve as significant raw materials in the food industry. Increasing market demand for Suanzaoren has led to expanded cultivation, though current production practices emphasize seed utilization, resulting in the underutilization of pulp and leaf tissues. In agricultural systems, developing elite varieties is an effective strategy for enhancing crop yield and quality. Breeding initiatives should establish specific objectives aligned with particular end uses, such as seed, pulp, or leaf production. Germplasm serves as the foundational material for breeding programs, so its selection must correspond to intended applications. Evaluating existing germplasm resources based on chemical composition profiles will provide a basis for developing improved ZS varieties. Objective: This study aimed to systematically compare the characteristic chemical composition in the seeds, pulp, and leaves of ZS. By quantifying key chemical components—such as flavonoid glycosides and saponins in seeds, organic acids and phenolic compounds in pulp, and flavonol glycosides and phenolic acids in leaves—we evaluated the quality of ZS germplasm resources. The resulting compositional profiles provide a concrete basis for selecting and breeding elite cultivars tailored to specific end uses, including seed, pulp, or leaf production. Methods: Chemical characterization was performed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS/MS). Quantitative analysis of chemical composition was conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography with evaporative light scattering detection (HPLC-ELSD). Multivariate statistical analyses—including principal component analysis (PCA), orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), and entropy-weighted technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (entropy-weighted TOPSIS)(EWT)—were employed for comprehensive data evaluation. Results: A comprehensive phytochemical analysis of Ziziphi spinosae (ZS) was conducted, identifying 144 distinct compounds across the seeds, pulp, and leaves. Of these, 114 were found in the seeds, 84 in the leaves, and 79 in the pulp. The seeds were particularly rich in flavonoid glycosides, such as spinosin and 6‴-feruloylspinosin, as well as saponins like jujuboside A and B. The pulp was dominated by organic acids, including citric acid, and phenolic compounds, while the leaves were abundant in flavonol glycosides, including rutin, and phenolic acids such as isochlorogenic acid B. Based on the chemical composition profiles, the ZS germplasms were evaluated for specific applications. ZS24, ZS22, and ZS3 were identified as the most suitable for seed production, ZS3, ZS6, and ZS9 for pulp utilization, and ZS20, ZS3, and ZS18 for leaf-based applications. With respect to the integrated utilization of multiple plant parts (roots, stems, and leaves), ZS6, ZS3, and ZS24 demonstrated the highest potential. Conclusions: The identification of superior germplasm resources provides strategic direction for the breeding of elite ZS cultivars. These findings will enable the comprehensive utilization of ZS plant resources and support the high-quality development of related industries. Full article
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12 pages, 1928 KB  
Article
Chemometric Discrimination of Korean and Chinese Kimchi Using Untargeted Metabolomics
by Quynh-An Nguyen, Dong-Shin Kim, Hyo-Dong Kim, Kyu-Bin Kim, Kyung-Sik Ham, Yonghoon Lee and Hyun-Jin Kim
Metabolites 2025, 15(10), 640; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15100640 - 25 Sep 2025
Viewed by 979
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Kimchi has gained global recognition for its unique taste and health benefits, but its quality is totally different according to its geographical origin of materials and production methods. Methods: In this study, differences between Korean (53 samples) and Chinese kimchi (72 samples) [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Kimchi has gained global recognition for its unique taste and health benefits, but its quality is totally different according to its geographical origin of materials and production methods. Methods: In this study, differences between Korean (53 samples) and Chinese kimchi (72 samples) were investigated through comprehensive metabolomic analysis using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF MS). Results: Multivariate statistical analyses revealed a clear separation between the two groups. Thirty-four metabolites contributing to the separation were identified. Korean kimchi was enriched in sucrose, quinic acid, sinapic acid derivatives, rutin, capsicosin, and capsianoside, while Chinese kimchi contained higher levels of trihydroxy octadecenoic acid, 2-hydroxypalmitic acid, pinellic acid, maltose, glucuronic acid, and corchorifatty acid F. In particular, the univariate Bayesianlogistic regression analysis revealed that among these metabolites, rutin, capsicosin derivatives, and sinapic acid derivatives showed strong potential as origin-discriminant markers of kimchi, providing insights into how these metabolites influence its nutritional and sensory properties. Conclusions: These compositional differences may be attributed to variations in raw materials and production methods of kimchi. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Metabolomics)
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14 pages, 1006 KB  
Article
Investigating Systemic Metabolic Effects of Betula alba Leaf Extract in Rats via Urinary Metabolomics
by Gregorio Peron, Alina Yerkassymova, Gokhan Zengin and Stefano Dall’Acqua
Metabolites 2025, 15(7), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15070471 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1154
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Herbal extracts from Betula alba (birch) are traditionally used for their purported diuretic effects, but scientific evidence supporting these claims remains limited. In this pilot study, we evaluated the short-term effects of a standardized B. alba leaf extract in healthy adult rats [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Herbal extracts from Betula alba (birch) are traditionally used for their purported diuretic effects, but scientific evidence supporting these claims remains limited. In this pilot study, we evaluated the short-term effects of a standardized B. alba leaf extract in healthy adult rats using an untargeted urinary metabolomics approach based on UPLC-QTOF. Methods: Two doses, 25 or 50 mg/kg, of a standardized B. alba extract were orally administered to rats. The extract contains hyperoside (0.53%), quercetin glucuronide (0.36%), myricetin glucoside (0.32%), and chlorogenic acid (0.28%) as its main constituents. After 3 days of treatment, the 24 h urine output was measured. Results: While no statistically significant changes were observed in the 24 h urine volume or the urinary Na+ and K+ excretion, multivariate metabolomic analysis revealed treatment-induced alterations in the urinary metabolic profile. Notably, the levels of two glucocorticoids, i.e., corticosterone and 11-dehydrocorticosterone, were increased in treated animals, suggesting that the extract may influence corticosteroid metabolism or excretion, potentially impacting antidiuretic hormone signaling. Elevated bile-related compounds, including bile acids and bilin, and glucuronidated metabolites were also observed, indicating changes in bile acid metabolism, hepatic detoxification, and possibly gut microbiota activity. Conclusions: Although this study did not confirm a diuretic effect of B. alba extract, the observed metabolic shifts suggest broader systemic bioactivities that warrant further investigation. Overall, the results indicate that the approach based on urinary metabolomics may be valuable in uncovering the mechanisms of action and evaluating the bioactivity of herbal extracts with purported diuretic properties. Full article
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24 pages, 5751 KB  
Article
Identification of HMOX-1-Targeting Natural Compounds in Camellia nitidissima Chi for NSCLC Therapy: Integrating Bioassay and In Silico Screening Approaches
by Lingqiu Zhang, Fan Zhang, Haimei Liang, Xiangling Qin, Chunmei Liang, Manlu Zhong, Yuemi Mo, Jinling Xie, Xiaotao Hou, Jiagang Deng, Erwei Hao and Zhengcai Du
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(6), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18060824 - 30 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1668
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Camellia nitidissima Chi (C. nitidissima), a traditional Chinese “food and medicine homology” plant, has demonstrated potential anti-tumor properties. However, its mechanisms of anti-lung cancer activity via ferroptosis remain unclear. This study aimed to construct an integrated research system of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Camellia nitidissima Chi (C. nitidissima), a traditional Chinese “food and medicine homology” plant, has demonstrated potential anti-tumor properties. However, its mechanisms of anti-lung cancer activity via ferroptosis remain unclear. This study aimed to construct an integrated research system of “natural product extraction-purification, bioactivity evaluation, and computational drug screening” to explore the bioactive compounds in C. nitidissima leaves targeting HMOX-1-mediated ferroptosis and their anti-lung cancer mechanisms. Methods: Active fractions were prepared using ethanol extraction combined with polyamide column chromatography. The anti-lung cancer activity was evaluated using the NCI-H1975 cell model. Ferroptosis was verified via transmission electron microscopy (TEM), biochemical indicators, a PCR Array, and immunofluorescence. The bioactive compounds were identified using UPLC-Q Exactive MS, and their binding affinity to HMOX-1 was evaluated via molecular docking and dynamics simulations, followed by cellular validation. Results: The 95% F1 fraction from the extracts of C. nitidissima leaves exhibited the strongest anti-lung cancer activity, which could be significantly reversed by Ferrostatin-1. Furthermore, it induced typical ferroptosis-related structural damage in mitochondria, including shrinkage and a reduction in size, increased membrane density, and a reduction or even the disappearance of cristae structures. At the molecular level, this fraction significantly increased the levels of oxidative stress markers (ROS↑, MDA↑, Fe2+↑, and GSH↓) and upregulated the expression of key ferroptosis-related genes, including HMOX-1, CHAC1, and NOX1. Using UPLC-Q Exactive MS combined with computational simulation methods, four bioactive compounds with high affinity for HMOX1 were successfully identified, including isochlorogenic acid A (−8.4 kcal/mol), isochlorogenic acid C (−8.4 kcal/mol), apigenin (−7.8 kcal/mol), and chrysin (−7.3 kcal/mol). Cellular experiments validated that these compounds exhibited dose-dependent anti-proliferative effects. Conclusions: The leaves of C. nitidissima induce anti-lung cancer effects via HMOX-1-mediated ferroptosis. Isochlorogenic acid A/C, apigenin, and chrysin were identified as key bioactive components. These findings lay the foundation for the development of natural ferroptosis-targeted drugs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products)
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14 pages, 1442 KB  
Article
Bioremediation of Persistent Organic Pollutant—Oxybenzone with Pleurotus djamor
by Agata Kryczyk-Poprawa, Wojciech Baran, Katarzyna Sułkowska-Ziaja, Katarzyna Kała, Ewa Adamek, Małgorzata Król, Adrián Sánchez-Hidalgo and Bożena Muszyńska
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 4707; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15094707 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1796
Abstract
Oxybenzone, a common sunscreen ingredient, has been widely detected in various environmental matrices, posing significant ecological and health risks. The present study demonstrates, for the first time, the capacity of Pleurotus djamor to degrade oxybenzone in in vitro cultures. After 14 days of [...] Read more.
Oxybenzone, a common sunscreen ingredient, has been widely detected in various environmental matrices, posing significant ecological and health risks. The present study demonstrates, for the first time, the capacity of Pleurotus djamor to degrade oxybenzone in in vitro cultures. After 14 days of mycelial incubation, oxybenzone concentrations in the medium decreased from 25 mg to 1.5394 ± 0.095 mg. The final amount of oxybenzone in the mycelium after lyophilization was 6.2067 ± 0.2459 mg. Furthermore, oxybenzone addition significantly reduced biomass growth from 2.510 ± 0.6230 g to 1.4697 ± 0.0465 g. The transformation products in the dry mycelium and medium were assessed and identified using UPLC-Q-tof based on monoisotopic molecular mass and fragmentation spectra. In processes initiated by P. djamor, mainly acylated derivatives of oxybenzone were formed. Additionally, compounds with thiol and amino groups were identified. Alterations in antioxidant profiles (L-tryptophan, 6-methyl-D,L-tryptophan, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, ergosterol, lovastatin, L-phenylalanine, and ergothioneine) in response to oxybenzone exposure were observed. Our findings reveal significant changes in the antioxidant levels and biomass growth inhibition, underscoring the potential toxicological risks associated with oxybenzone. The observed reduction in oxybenzone concentration highlights the potential of P. djamor as an effective and environmentally friendly strategy for mitigating this pollutant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical and Molecular Sciences)
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22 pages, 2534 KB  
Article
Nutraceutical Profile Characterization in Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) Fruits
by Germán Ortuño-Hernández, Marta Silva, Rosa Toledo, Helena Ramos, Ana Reis-Mendes, David Ruiz, Pedro Martínez-Gómez, Isabel M. P. L. V. O. Ferreira and Juan Alfonso Salazar
Plants 2025, 14(7), 1000; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14071000 - 22 Mar 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1393
Abstract
This study characterizes the metabolomic profiles of three reference apricot cultivars (‘Bergeron’, ‘Currot’, and ‘Goldrich’) using 1H NMR spectroscopy and untargeted UPLC-QToF MS/MS to support plant breeding by correlating metabolomic data with fruit phenotyping. The primary objective was to identify and quantify [...] Read more.
This study characterizes the metabolomic profiles of three reference apricot cultivars (‘Bergeron’, ‘Currot’, and ‘Goldrich’) using 1H NMR spectroscopy and untargeted UPLC-QToF MS/MS to support plant breeding by correlating metabolomic data with fruit phenotyping. The primary objective was to identify and quantify the key metabolites influencing fruit quality from a nutraceutical perspective. The analysis revealed significant differences in primary and secondary metabolites among the cultivars. ‘Bergeron’ and ‘Goldrich’ exhibited higher concentrations of organic acids (109 mg/g malate in ‘Bergeron’ and 202 mg/g citrate in ‘Goldrich’), flavonoids such as epicatechin (0.44 mg/g and 0.79 mg/g, respectively), and sucrose (464 mg/g and 546 mg/g), contributing to their acidity-to-sugar balance. Conversely, ‘Currot’ showed higher levels of amino acids (24.44 mg/g asparagine) and sugars, particularly fructose and glucose (79 mg/g and 180 mg/g), enhancing its characteristic sweetness. These findings suggest that metabolomic profiling can provide valuable insights into the biochemical pathways underlying apricot quality traits, aiding in the selection of cultivars with desirable characteristics. The integration of phenotyping data with 1H NMR and UPLC-QToF MS/MS offers a comprehensive approach to understanding apricot metabolomic diversity, crucial for breeding high-quality, nutritionally enriched fruits that meet market demands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology and Metabolism)
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20 pages, 5187 KB  
Article
Integrated Assessment of Phenotypic Traits and Bioactive Compounds in Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus
by Yaqi Liu, Xiu Wang, Mingxin Zhang, Fuxin Li, Yaoyao Wang, Yu Feng, Haitao Yu, Yang Gu, Jiushi Liu and Weiwei Gao
Horticulturae 2025, 11(3), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11030317 - 13 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1702
Abstract
Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus (AMM) is a widely used medicinal plant in China, primarily cultivated in the northern regions; however, the selection and breeding of superior varieties remains underdeveloped. To scientifically assess the germplasm resources of AMM and facilitate its breeding, [...] Read more.
Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus (AMM) is a widely used medicinal plant in China, primarily cultivated in the northern regions; however, the selection and breeding of superior varieties remains underdeveloped. To scientifically assess the germplasm resources of AMM and facilitate its breeding, this study collected 33 germplasm samples from five provinces and conducted a comprehensive evaluation of their botanical traits, agronomic traits, quality traits, and powdery mildew resistance. The results indicated that, among the 18 botanical and agronomic traits, the Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H′) for quantitative traits was higher than that for qualitative traits, with the coefficient of variation ranging from 6.82% to 34.14%. The characterization of five flavonoids and eight saponins based on the established UPLC-Q-TOF/MS technique revealed that 13 compounds showed significant abundance variations across germplasms. Correlation analysis revealed that plants with robust above-ground growth usually have higher yields. Moreover, the number of compound leaflets was positively correlated with flavonoid content in the roots, whereas germplasms with smaller above-ground biomass and thinner roots exhibited higher saponin content. Based on the comprehensive scores (F-value), the top three germplasms were An-31, An-26, and An-28, which may serve as promising breeding materials. Cluster analysis grouped the 33 germplasms into five categories, including high-content and high-yield groups. Five germplasms exhibiting strong disease resistance were identified, with An-26 demonstrating the best performance in yield, quality, and resistance. Furthermore, a negative correlation was observed between powdery mildew resistance and flavonoid content in roots. This study will provide a foundation for the AMM breeding and selection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Breeding, Cultivation, and Metabolic Regulation of Medicinal Plants)
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14 pages, 1338 KB  
Article
The Toxicological Impact of the Ultraviolet Filter Oxybenzone on Antioxidant Profiles in In Vitro Cultures of Lentinula edodes
by Agata Kryczyk-Poprawa, Adrián Sánchez-Hidalgo, Wojciech Baran, Ewa Adamek, Katarzyna Sułkowska-Ziaja, Katarzyna Kała, Bożena Muszyńska and Włodzimierz Opoka
Toxics 2025, 13(3), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13030145 - 20 Feb 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3693
Abstract
A detailed understanding of the toxic effects of organic UV filters, such as oxybenzone, on living organisms is crucial for assessing the feasibility of bioremediation methods. Due to the widespread use of oxybenzone as an ultraviolet filter in sunscreens, it has become an [...] Read more.
A detailed understanding of the toxic effects of organic UV filters, such as oxybenzone, on living organisms is crucial for assessing the feasibility of bioremediation methods. Due to the widespread use of oxybenzone as an ultraviolet filter in sunscreens, it has become an emerging contaminant of concern in the environment. This concern extends to fungi, which have the potential to neutralize a wide variety of xenobiotics released into the environment. The primary objective of the study was to elucidate the alterations of antioxidant profiles of the white-rot fungus Lentinula edodes in response to oxybenzone exposure. Samples with oxybenzone at a final concentration of 0.1 mg mL−1 were cultured in vitro with the mycelium of L. edodes for 14 days. The contents of the following antioxidant compounds were assessed: indole derivatives (6-methyl-D,L-tryptophan, tryptophan), ergothioneine, and phenolic acid (p-hydroxybenzoic acid), as well as lovastatin and ergosterol. The addition of oxybenzone negatively affected biomass growth, reducing it from 3.205 ± 0.4022 g to 0.5803 ± 0.1019 g. A considerable reduction in oxybenzone amounts was found in the medium after incubation (from 25 mg to 0.2993 ± 0.1934 mg). After lyophilization, the mycelium contained 1.1591 ± 0.0323 mg of oxybenzone. Additionally, eleven biotransformation products were assessed in the mycelium and medium samples using UPLC-Q ToF. After incubation, the transformation products were identified based on monoisotopic molecular mass and fragmentation spectra. The observed increase in the content of some antioxidants, e.g., ergothioneine, while reducing the content of others, such as lovastatin, suggests that the impact of xenobiotics on the antioxidant profile of in vitro cultures of L. edodes is complex. Marked alterations in biomass growth suggest a potential toxicological risk associated with oxybenzone. This study contributes to the understanding of the environmental impact of UV filters and emphasizes the need for safer alternatives. Full article
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25 pages, 6208 KB  
Article
Comprehensive Evaluation of Nanhaia speciosa Germplasm Resources Using Agronomic Traits, Molecular Markers, and Metabolomics
by Jing Yang, Nanchen Lai, Yiqin Zheng, Ruifeng Ji, Ping Wang, Wei Dai, Gantao Cheng and Xin He
Agronomy 2025, 15(3), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030508 - 20 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1040
Abstract
Nanhaia speciosa is a valuable industrial crop known for its significant edible and medicinal properties, attributed to its abundance of secondary metabolites. This study aims to elucidate the genetic relationships among N. speciosa, enhance species identification accuracy, and select genetically stable, high-quality [...] Read more.
Nanhaia speciosa is a valuable industrial crop known for its significant edible and medicinal properties, attributed to its abundance of secondary metabolites. This study aims to elucidate the genetic relationships among N. speciosa, enhance species identification accuracy, and select genetically stable, high-quality germplasms of N. speciosa. To achieve this, we conducted chloroplast gene amplification and sequencing, alongside an analysis of the agronomic traits of 19 N. speciosa germplasms. Additionally, non-targeted metabolomic profiling using UPLC-Q-Orbitrap/MS and chemometric methods was employed to assess their metabolic diversity and genetic relationships. The results revealed notable differences in DNA barcodes and secondary structures across the germplasms, with the atpF-atpH sequence successfully distinguishing all 19 germplasms into distinct varieties. Multivariate statistical analyses, including principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and hierarchical clustering, identified 12 key marker metabolites that effectively differentiated the germplasms, consistent with the observed phenotypic diversity. A clustering analysis integrating genetic, phenotypic, and metabolomic data further validated the utility of DNA barcoding for species identification. The results of the comprehensive analysis showed that NDL-2 and NDL-18 exhibited relatively good edible and medicinal properties, while NDL-1 and NDL-19 exhibited relatively poor edible and medicinal properties. This study provides crucial insights for the breeding and genetic improvement of N. speciosa and related species, offering a valuable reference for the identification, conservation, and utilization of germplasm resources within the N. speciosa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Breeding and Genetics)
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18 pages, 5178 KB  
Article
Brazilian Stingless Bee Geopropolis Exhibit Antioxidant Properties and Anticancer Potential Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
by Mariana Muniz da Paz, Kamila Marques Sette, Raissa Eduardo dos Santos, Ana Luiza Barbosa e Vasconcelos, Danielly C. Ferraz da Costa, Ana Claudia F. Amaral, Igor Almeida Rodrigues and Luciana Pereira Rangel
Antioxidants 2025, 14(2), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14020141 - 24 Jan 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2126
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cancer in terms of mortality and the sixth in incidence worldwide. Treatment varies by tumor stage, but low survival rates are common across all stages. Due to these poor outcomes, there is a critical need [...] Read more.
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cancer in terms of mortality and the sixth in incidence worldwide. Treatment varies by tumor stage, but low survival rates are common across all stages. Due to these poor outcomes, there is a critical need for new treatment options and lead compounds, prompting an active search. Geopropolis has been identified as a source of bioactive compounds with various pharmacological activities, including anticancer effects against different types of cancer. Since stingless bees may be selective for native botanical species, the geopropolis they produce can have an unusual chemical profile. In this study, we report the antioxidant properties and anticancer potential of geopropolis extracts produced by Melipona bicolor, M. marginata, and M. mondury using 2D- and 3D- cell culture models. The chemical profile of these samples using UPLC-QTOF HRMS/MS indicated ferreirin and dihydrokaempferide as the main flavonoids, along with cupressic acid and 15-acetoxyisocupressic acid as the most abundant diterpenoids. Interestingly, artepillin C, a main component of green propolis, was also detected. The geopropolis extracts showed good cell viability inhibition and selectivity indices in comparison to cisplatin used as an HCC treatment option. The antioxidant capacity of the geopropolis extracts was high and correlated with the cytotoxic effect against the HCC cells. Investigations into the mechanisms show the ability of the extracts to induce apoptosis and suppress the clonogenic potential of these cell lines. We also observed an inhibition of spheroid formation, viability, and morphology alterations. This is the first time the effects of geopropolis are described in a panel of HCC cell lines. Full article
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35 pages, 6192 KB  
Article
Phytochemical and Bioactivity Evaluation of Bee Pollen and Androecia of Castanea, Salix, and Quercus Species
by Nisa Beril Sen, Irena Vovk, Hasan Kırmızıbekmez and Etil Guzelmeric
Antioxidants 2025, 14(1), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14010040 - 31 Dec 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2269
Abstract
Qualitative and quantitative differences in the chemical composition between bee pollen originated from Castanea sativa (Türkiye and Slovenia), Salix spp. (Türkiye and Slovenia), and Quercus spp. (Türkiye) and androecia of Castanea sativa, Salix alba, and Quercus pubescens (apetalous trees) were evaluated [...] Read more.
Qualitative and quantitative differences in the chemical composition between bee pollen originated from Castanea sativa (Türkiye and Slovenia), Salix spp. (Türkiye and Slovenia), and Quercus spp. (Türkiye) and androecia of Castanea sativa, Salix alba, and Quercus pubescens (apetalous trees) were evaluated for the first time by new high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) methods using marker compounds. N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine was isolated, and its structure was elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). It was the main and the marker compound common to bee pollen (≈3–41 mg/g) and androecia (≈3–6 mg/g) samples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the identification of N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine in bee pollen originated from Salix spp. and androecia of C. sativa, S. alba, and Q. pubescens. The botanical origins of bee pollen were determined via phytochemical profiling using HPTLC-image analyses showing that bee pollen from the same botanical source had almost identical profiles regardless of collection location, geographical differences, and the bee race. In vitro tests and HPTLC-effect-directed analyses (EDAs) were performed to assess antioxidant and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activities of bee pollen, androecia, and N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine. HPTLC-EDA combined with image analyses was used for comparing the activities of bee pollen, androecia, N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine, and also other marker compounds (quercetin, myricitrin, hyperoside, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, and rutin). The remarkable bioactivity of N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine was for the first time evaluated by HPTLC-EDA and in vitro tests. This is the first study performing HPTLC-XO inhibitory activity analyses on the HPTLC NH2 F254S plates. Further bioactivity studies on botanically and chemically well-characterized bee pollen samples are needed to aid in the use of bee pollen-containing supplements in the prevention and treatment of diseases. Full article
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18 pages, 2991 KB  
Article
Aqueous Extracts of Rhus trilobata Inhibit the Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Response In Vitro and In Vivo
by Alejandra Jazmín Rodríguez-Castillo, Susana Aideé González-Chávez, Ismael Portillo-Pantoja, Eunice Cruz-Hermosillo, César Pacheco-Tena, David Chávez-Flores, Ma. Carmen E. Delgado-Gardea, Rocío Infante-Ramírez, José Juan Ordaz-Ortiz and Blanca Sánchez-Ramírez
Plants 2024, 13(20), 2840; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13202840 - 10 Oct 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2762
Abstract
Chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for approximately 74% of deaths globally. Medicinal plants have traditionally been used to treat NCDs, including diabetes, cancer, and rheumatic diseases, and are a source of anti-inflammatory compounds. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of [...] Read more.
Chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for approximately 74% of deaths globally. Medicinal plants have traditionally been used to treat NCDs, including diabetes, cancer, and rheumatic diseases, and are a source of anti-inflammatory compounds. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of Rhus trilobata (Rt) extracts and fractions in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation models in vitro and in vivo. The aqueous extract (RtAE) and five fractions (F2 to F6) were obtained via C18 solid-phase separation and tested in murine LPS-induced J774.1 macrophages. Key inflammatory markers, such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and COX-2 gene expression were measured using RT-qPCR, and PGE2 production was assessed via HPLC-DAD. The in vivo effects were tested in an LPS-induced paw edema model in Wistar rats. Results showed that RtAE at 15 μg/mL significantly decreased IL-1β and IL-6 gene expression in vitro. Fraction F6 further reduced IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 gene expression, COX-2 expression, and PGE2 production. In vivo, F6 significantly reduced LPS-induced paw edema, inflammatory infiltration, and IL-1β and COX-2 protein expression. Chemical characterization of F6 by UPLC/MS-QTOF revealed at least eight compounds with anti-inflammatory activity. These findings support the anti-inflammatory potential of RtAE and F6, reinforcing the medicinal use of Rt. Full article
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