Search Results (2,653)

Antioxidative neuroprotection is effective at preventing ischemic stroke (IS). Ferulic acid (FA) offers benefits in the treatment of many diseases, mostly due to its antioxidant activities. In this study, a glycosylated ferulic acid conjugate (FA-Glu), with 1,2,3-triazole as a linker and bioisostere between glucose at the C6 position and FA at the C4 position, was designed and synthesized. The hydrophilicity and chemical stability of FA-Glu were tested. FA-Glu’s protection against DNA oxidative cleavage was tested using pBR322 plasmid DNA under the Fenton reaction. The cytotoxicity of FA-Glu was examined via the PC12 cell and bEnd.3 cell tests. Antioxidative neuroprotection was evaluated, in vitro, via a H₂O₂-induced PC12 cell test, measuring cell viability and ROS levels. Antioxidative alleviation of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury (CIRI), in vivo, was evaluated using a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. The results indicated that FA-Glu was water-soluble (LogP −1.16 ± 0.01) and chemically stable. FA-Glu prevented pBR322 plasmid DNA cleavage induced via •OH radicals (SC% 88.00%). It was a non-toxic agent based on PC12 cell and bEnd.3 cell tests results. FA-Glu significantly protected against H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage in the PC12 cell (cell viability 88.12%, 100 μM) and inhibited excessive cell ROS generation (45.67% at 100 μM). FA-Glu significantly reduced the infarcted brain areas measured using TTC stain observation, quantification (FA-Glu 21.79%, FA 28.49%, I/R model 43.42%), and H&E stain histological observation. It sharply reduced the MDA level (3.26 nmol/mg protein) and significantly increased the GSH level (139.6 nmol/mg protein) and SOD level (265.19 U/mg protein). With superior performance to FA, FA-Glu is a safe agent with effective antioxidative DNA and neuronal protective actions and an ability to alleviate CIRI, which should help in the prevention of IS. Full article

Barium chloride (BaCl₂), a known environmental pollutant, induces organ-specific oxidative stress through disruption of redox homeostasis. This study evaluated the protective effects and safety profile of sodium copper chlorophyllin (SCC) and ascorbic acid (ASC) against BaCl₂-induced oxidative damage in the liver and brain of mice using a two-phase experimental protocol. Animals received either SCC (40 mg/kg), ASC (160 mg/kg), or their combination for 14 days prior to BaCl₂ exposure (150 mg/L in drinking water for 7 days), allowing evaluation of both preventive and therapeutic effects. Toxicological and behavioral assessments confirmed the absence of systemic toxicity or neurobehavioral alterations following supplementation. Body weight, liver and kidney indices, and biochemical markers (Aspartate Aminotransferase (ASAT), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALAT), creatinine) remained within physiological ranges, and no anxiogenic or locomotor effects were observed. In the brain, BaCl₂ exposure significantly increased SOD (+49%), CAT (+66%), GPx (+24%), and GSH (+26%) compared to controls, reflecting a robust compensatory antioxidant response. Although lipid peroxidation (MDA) showed a non-significant increase, SCC, ASC, and their combination reduced MDA levels by 42%, 37%, and 55%, respectively. These treatments normalized antioxidant enzyme activities and GSH, indicating an effective neuroprotective effect. In contrast, the liver exhibited a different oxidative profile. BaCl₂ exposure increased MDA levels by 80% and GSH by 34%, with no activation of SOD, CAT, or GPx. Histological analysis revealed extensive hepatocellular necrosis, vacuolization, and inflammatory infiltration. SCC significantly reduced hepatic MDA by 39% and preserved tissue architecture, while ASC alone or combined with SCC exacerbated inflammation and depleted hepatic GSH by 71% and 78%, respectively, relative to BaCl₂-exposed controls. Collectively, these results highlight a differential, organ-specific response to BaCl₂-induced oxidative stress and the therapeutic potential of SCC and ASC. SCC emerged as a safer and more effective agent, particularly in hepatic protection, while both antioxidants demonstrated neuroprotective effects when used individually or in combination. Full article

Background: A precise drug delivery system enables the optimization of treatments with minimal side effects if it can deliver medication only when activated by a specific light source. This study presents a controlled drug delivery system based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles (MPs) designed for the sustained release of vancomycin hydrochloride. Methods: The MPs were co-loaded with indocyanine green (ICG), a near-infrared (NIR) responsive agent, and fabricated via the double emulsion method.They were characterized for stability, surface modification, biocompatibility, and antibacterial efficacy. Results: Dynamic light scattering and zeta potential analyses confirmed significant increases in particle size and surface charge reversal following chitosan coating. Scanning electron microscopy revealed uniform morphology in uncoated MPs (1–10 $\mathsf{\mu }$m) and irregular surfaces post-coating. Stability tests demonstrated drug retention for up to 180 days. Among formulations, PVI1 exhibited the highest yield (76.67 ± 1.3%) and encapsulation efficiency (56.2 ± 1.95%). NIR irradiation (808 nm) enhanced drug release kinetics, with formulation PVI4 achieving over 48.9% release, resulting in improved antibacterial activity. Chitosan-coated MPs (e.g., PVI4-C) effectively suppressed drug release without NIR light for up to 8 h, with cumulative release reaching only 10.89%. Without NIR light, bacterial colonies exceeded 1000 CFU; NIR-triggered release reduced them below 120 CFU. Drug release data fitted best with the zero-order and Korsmeyer–Peppas models, suggesting a combination of diffusion-controlled and constant-rate release behavior. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the promise of chitosan-coated NIR-responsive PLGA MPs for precise, on-demand antibiotic delivery and improved antibacterial performance. Full article

The white button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) is a widely cultivated edible and medicinal mushroom, which contains various active substances, and has application value against pathogenic bacteria in aquaculture. Firstly, A. bisporus water extract (AB-WE) was prepared. Through the detection kits, it was found that the polysaccharide, protein, and polyphenol components of AB-WE were 9.11%, 3.3%, and 1.5%, respectively. The 246 compounds were identified in AB-WE, and the major small-molecule components included L-Isoleucine, L-Tyrosine, L-Valine, and Linoleic acid by HPLC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap-MS. Secondly, the AB-WE was evaluated for its immunological activities through dietary administration and pathogen challenge (Aeromonas hydrophila and Vibrio fluvialis) in goldfish (Carassius auratus). The results showed that the levels of immune factors of acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and lysozyme (LZM) increased (p < 0.05) in goldfish, and the relative percentage survival of AB-WE against A. hydrophila and V. fluvialis were 80.00% (p < 0.05) and 81.82% (p < 0.05), respectively. The AB-WE reduced the bacterial content in renal tissue, enhanced the phagocytic activity of leukocytes, and exhibited antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the expression of antioxidant-related factors and inflammatory factors. Through histopathological and immunofluorescence techniques, it was found that AB-WE maintained the integrity of visceral tissues and reduced renal tissue apoptosis and DNA damage. Therefore, AB-WE exhibits immunoprotective activity against A. hydrophila and V. fluvialis infections in fish, and holds promise as an immunotherapeutic agent against major pathogenic bacteria in aquaculture. Full article

Soil degradation resulting from intensive agricultural practices, the excessive use of agrochemicals, and climate-induced stresses has significantly impaired soil fertility, disrupted microbial diversity, and reduced crop productivity. Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) represent a sustainable biological approach to restoring degraded soils by modulating plant physiology and soil function through diverse molecular mechanisms. PGPB synthesizes indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) to stimulate root development and nutrient uptake and produce ACC deaminase, which lowers ethylene accumulation under stress, mitigating growth inhibition. They also enhance nutrient availability by releasing phosphate-solubilizing enzymes and siderophores that improve iron acquisition. In parallel, PGPB activates jasmonate and salicylate pathways, priming a systemic resistance to biotic and abiotic stress. Through quorum sensing, biofilm formation, and biosynthetic gene clusters encoding antibiotics, lipopeptides, and VOCs, PGPB strengthen rhizosphere colonization and suppress pathogens. These interactions contribute to microbial community recovery, an improved soil structure, and enhanced nutrient cycling. This review synthesizes current evidence on the molecular and physiological mechanisms by which PGPB enhance soil restoration in degraded agroecosystems, highlighting their role beyond biofertilization as key agents in ecological rehabilitation. It examines advances in nutrient mobilization, stress mitigation, and signaling pathways, based on the literature retrieved from major scientific databases, focusing on studies published in the last decade. Full article

Environmental sustainability and responsible resource utilization are critical global challenges. In this work, we present a sustainable and circular-economy-based approach for synthesizing CuFe₂O₄ nanoparticles by directly utilizing copper oxide minerals sourced from Chilean mining operations. Copper sulfate (CuSO₄) was extracted from these minerals through acid leaching and used as a precursor for nanoparticle synthesis via both chemical co-precipitation and microwave-assisted methods. The influence of different precipitating agents—NaOH, Na₂CO₃, and NaF—was systematically evaluated. XRD and FESEM analyses revealed that NaOH produced the most phase-pure and well-dispersed nanoparticles, while NaF resulted in secondary phase formation. The microwave-assisted method further improved particle uniformity and reduced agglomeration due to rapid and homogeneous heating. Electrochemical characterization was conducted to assess the suitability of the synthesized CuFe₂O₄ for supercapacitor applications. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) measurements confirmed pseudocapacitive behavior, with a specific capacitance of up to 1000 F/g at 2 A/g. These findings highlight the potential of CuFe₂O₄ as a low-cost, high-performance electrode material for energy storage. This study underscores the feasibility of converting primary mined minerals into functional nanomaterials while promoting sustainable mineral valorization. The approach can be extended to other critical metals and mineral residues, including tailings, supporting the broader goals of a circular economy and environmental remediation. Full article

Developing multifunctional wound dressings with excellent mechanical properties, strong tissue adhesion, and efficient antibacterial activity is crucial for promoting wound healing. This study prepared a novel nanocomposite hydrogel dressing based on sodium alginate-polyacrylic acid dual crosslinking networks, incorporating tannic acid-coated cellulose nanocrystals (TA@CNC) and in-situ reduced silver nanoparticles for multifunctional enhancement. The rigid CNC framework significantly improved mechanical properties (elastic modulus of 146 kPa at 1 wt%), while TA catechol groups provided excellent adhesion (36.4 kPa to pigskin, 122% improvement over pure system) through dynamic hydrogen bonding and coordination interactions. TA served as a green reducing agent for uniform AgNPs loading, with CNC negative charges preventing particle aggregation. Antibacterial studies revealed synergistic effects between TA-induced membrane disruption and Ag⁺-triggered reactive oxygen species generation, achieving >99.5% inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The TA@CNC-regulated porous structure balanced swelling performance and water vapor transmission, facilitating wound exudate management and moist healing. This composite hydrogel successfully integrates mechanical toughness, tissue adhesion, antibacterial activity, and biocompatibility, providing a novel strategy for advanced wound dressing development. Full article

Cinnamic acid, an organic acid naturally occurring in plants of the Cinnamomum genus, has been highly valued for its medicinal properties in numerous ancient Chinese texts. This article reviews the chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and various applications of cinnamic acid and its derivatives reported in publications from 2016 to 2025, and anticipates their potential in medical and industrial fields. This review evaluates studies in major scientific databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, to ensure a comprehensive analysis of the therapeutic potential of cinnamic acid. Through systematic integration of existing knowledge, it has been revealed that cinnamic acid has a wide range of pharmacological activities, including anti-tumor, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant and hypoglycemic effects. Additionally, it has been shown to be effective against a variety of pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and foodborne Pseudomonas. Cinnamic acid acts by disrupting cell membranes, inhibiting ATPase activity, and preventing biofilm formation, thereby demonstrating its ability to act as a natural antimicrobial agent. Its anti-inflammatory properties are demonstrated by improving oxidative stress and reducing inflammatory cell infiltration. Furthermore, cinnamic acid enhances metabolic health by improving glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity, showing promising results in improving metabolic health in patients with diabetes and its complications. This systematic approach highlights the need for further investigation of the mechanisms and safety of cinnamic acid to substantiate its use as a basis for new drug development. Particularly in the context of increasing antibiotic resistance and the search for sustainable, effective medical treatments, the study of cinnamic acid is notably significant and innovative. Full article

Current treatments against leukemia present several limitations, prompting the search for new therapeutic agents, particularly those derived from natural products. In this context, structural modifications were performed on the triterpene 3α,24-dihydroxylup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid (T1), isolated from Phoradendron wattii. Among the five derivatives obtained, 3α,24-dihydroxy-30-oxolup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid (T1c) exhibited the highest activity, with an IC₅₀ value of 12.90 ± 0.1 µM against THP-1 cells. T1c significantly reduced cell viability in both acute lymphoblastic leukemia (CCRF-CEM, REH, JURKAT, and MOLT-4) and acute myeloid leukemia (THP-1) cell lines, inducing apoptosis after 48 h of treatment, while showing minimal cytotoxicity toward normal mononuclear cells (MNCs). In silico molecular docking studies were conducted against three key protein targets: BCL-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2), EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor, tyrosine kinase domain), and FLT3 (FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3). The lowest binding energies (kcal/mol) observed were as follows: T1–BCL-2: −10.12, EGFR: −12.75, FLT3: −14.05; T1c–BCL-2: −10.23, EGFR: −14.50, FLT3: −14.07; T2–BCL-2: −11.59, EGFR: −15.00, FLT3: −14.03. These findings highlight T1c as a promising candidate in the search for anti-leukemic drugs which deserves further study. Full article

β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is the most abundant ketone body produced during ketosis, a process initiated by glucose depletion and the β-oxidation of fatty acids in hepatocytes. Traditionally recognized as an alternative energy substrate during fasting, caloric restriction, and starvation, BHB has gained attention for its diverse signaling roles in various physiological processes. This review explores the emerging therapeutic potential of BHB in the context of sarcopenia, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. BHB influences gene expression, lipid metabolism, and inflammation through its inhibition of Class I Histone deacetylases (HDACs) and activation of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), specifically HCAR2 and FFAR3. These actions lead to enhanced mitochondrial function, reduced oxidative stress, and regulation of inflammatory pathways, with implication for muscle maintenance, neuroprotection, and metabolic regulation. Moreover, BHB’s ability to modulate adipose tissue lipolysis and immune responses highlight its broader potential in managing chronic metabolic conditions and aging. While these findings show BHB as a promising therapeutic agent, further research is required to determine optimal dosing strategies, long-term effects, and its translational potential in clinical settings. Understanding BHB’s mechanisms will facilitate its development as a novel therapeutic strategy for multiple organ systems affected by aging and disease. Full article

Preeclampsia (PE) is a multifactorial hypertensive disorder unique to pregnancy and a leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Its pathogenesis involves placental dysfunction and an exaggerated maternal inflammatory response. Uric acid (UA), traditionally regarded as a marker of renal impairment, is increasingly recognized as an active contributor to the development of PE. Elevated UA levels are associated with oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, immune activation, and reduced renal clearance. Clinically, UA is measured in the second and third trimesters to assess disease severity and guide obstetric management, with higher levels correlating with early-onset PE and adverse perinatal outcomes. Its predictive accuracy improves when combined with other clinical and biochemical markers, particularly in low-resource settings. Mechanistically, UA and its monosodium urate crystals can activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, a cytosolic multiprotein complex of the innate immune system. This activation promotes the release of IL-1β and IL-18, exacerbating placental, vascular, and renal inflammation. NLRP3 inflammasome activation has been documented in placental tissues, immune cells, and kidneys of women with PE and is associated with hypertension, proteinuria, and endothelial injury. Experimental studies indicate that targeting UA metabolism or inhibiting NLRP3 activation, using agents such as allopurinol, metformin, or MCC950, can mitigate the clinical and histopathological features of PE. These findings support the dual role of UA as both a biomarker and a potential therapeutic target in the management of the disease. Full article

To rationally utilize and develop agricultural waste products, this research involved the synthesis of degradable high water-absorbing resin through the graft copolymerization of cotton straw (CS) with monomers. Among them, acrylic acid (AA) and acrylamide (Am) are used as grafting copolymer monomers, cellulose in the straw serves as the network framework, and MBA acts as the crosslinking agent. ⁶⁰Co gamma rays as initiators. Different concentrations of alkaline solution were used to dissolve the cellulose in the straw. Single-factor and orthogonal experiments were conducted to optimize the experimental conditions. various analytical methods such as thermogravimetric analysis (TG), X-ray crystallography (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to characterize the structure and properties of the product. ⁶⁰Co gamma rays as initiators, can reduce the pollution caused by chemical initiators and lower energy consumption. Through this research, agricultural waste can be effectively utilized, reducing environmental pollution, lowering industrial energy consumption, and synthesizing degradable and environmentally friendly high-absorbent resins. The product can be applied to agricultural water retention agent, fertilizer controlled release agent and other aspects. Full article

Background: Obesity is associated with insulin resistance (IR) and characterized by impaired activation of the PI3K/AKT route and glucose uptake. Elevated plasma levels of palmitic acid (PA) diminish insulin signaling in vitro and in vivo. Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OVEO) is rich in monoterpenes with protective effects against IR. Objective: The study aimed to assess total phenols content and antioxidant activity of OVEO and its cytotoxicity, as well as its effect on insulin signaling and glucose uptake in PA-treated adipocytes. Methods: The quantification of total phenolic content was determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu method, while the antioxidant capacity of OVEO was assessed by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) methods. The cytotoxicity of OVEO (0.1–10 µg/mL) was assessed using the MTS assay. SW872 adipocytes were incubated with 0.4 mM PA for 24 h, with or without a 2 h preincubation of OVEO, and then stimulated with insulin (100 nM, 10 min) or a vehicle. Phosphorylation of Tyr-IRS-1, Ser-AKT, and Thr-AS160 was analyzed by Western blot, and glucose uptake was measured using 2-NBDG. Results: OVEO contained phenols and exhibits antioxidant capacity. All the concentrations of OVEO assessed were not cytotoxic on SW872 adipocytes. PA decreased basal phospho-AS160 as well as insulin-stimulated phospho-IRS1, phospho-AKT, phospho-AS160 and glucose uptake, while OVEO co-treatment enhanced these markers. Conclusions: These findings suggest a beneficial effect of OVEO on the PA-impaired insulin pathway and glucose uptake, which might be explained by its phenolic content and antioxidant capacity, highlighting its potential as a complementary therapeutic agent for IR and related metabolic disorders. Full article

Background: During food processing and storage, traditional protein-based delivery systems encounter significant challenges in maintaining the structural and functional integrity of bioactive compounds, primarily due to their temporal instability. Methods: In this study, a nanocomposite hydrogel was prepared through the co-assembly of a self-assembling peptide, 9-Fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl-phenylalanine-arginine-glycine-aspartic acid-phenylalanine (Fmoc-FRGDF), and hyaluronic acid (HA). The stability of this hydrogel as a quercetin (Que) delivery carrier was systematically investigated. Furthermore, the impact of Que co-assembly on the microstructural evolution and physicochemical properties of the hydrogel was characterized. Concurrently, the encapsulation efficiency (EE%) and controlled release kinetics of Que were quantitatively evaluated. Results: The findings indicated that HA significantly reduced the storage modulus (G′) from 256.5 Pa for Fmoc-FRGDF to 21.1 Pa with the addition of 0.1 mg/mL HA. Despite this reduction, HA effectively slowed degradation rates; specifically, residue rates of 5.5% were observed for Fmoc-FRGDF alone compared to 14.1% with 0.5 mg/mL HA present. Notably, Que enhanced G′ within the ternary complex, increasing it from 256.5 Pa in Fmoc-FRGDF to an impressive 7527.0 Pa in the Que/HA/Fmoc-FRGDF hydrogel containing 0.1 mg/mL HA. The interactions among Que, HA, and Fmoc-FRGDF involved hydrogen bonding, electrostatic forces, and hydrophobic interactions; furthermore, the co-assembly process strengthened the β-sheet structure while significantly promoting supramolecular ordering. Interestingly, the release profile of Que adhered to the Korsmeyer–Peppas pharmacokinetic equations. Conclusions: Overall, this study examines the impact of polyphenol on the rheological properties, microstructural features, secondary structure conformation, and supramolecular ordering within peptide–polysaccharide–polyphenol ternary complexes, and the Fmoc-FRGDF/HA hydrogel system demonstrates a superior performance as a delivery vehicle for maintaining quercetin’s bioactivity, thereby establishing a multifunctional platform for bioactive agent encapsulation and controlled release. Full article

Euphorbia hirta L. is traditionally used to treat tumors and has demonstrated anticancer effects. This study evaluated the phytochemical composition, toxicity, and antitumor activity of saline extract (SE) from E. hirta leaves in mice. Phytochemical analysis included thin layer chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, and quantification of phenols, flavonoids, and proteins. Acute toxicity (2000 mg/kg) assessed mortality, hematological, biochemical, histological parameters, water/feed intake, and body weight. Genotoxicity was evaluated via comet and micronucleus assays. Antitumor activity was tested in vitro and in vivo on sarcoma 180. SE contained 107.3 mg GAE/g phenolics and 22.9 mg QE/g flavonoids; the presence of gallic and ellagic acids was detected. Protein concentration was 12.16 mg/mL with lectin activity present. No mortality, organ damage, or genotoxic effects occurred in toxicity tests. SE demonstrated in vitro cytotoxicity against sarcoma cells (IC₅₀: 10 µg/mL). In vivo, SE (50–200 mg/kg) reduced tumor weight by 70.2–72.3%. SE modulated IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-17, IFN-γ, and TNF-α in tumor environment. Tumors showed inflammatory infiltrate, necrosis, and fibrosis after treatment. These findings position the extract as a promising candidate for further development as a safe, plant-based antitumor agent. Full article