Search Results (67)

This study investigated the protective effect of an optimized naturally derived formulation extract against ultraviolet-induced skin photoaging and its preliminary potential for topical formulation development. A mouse model was established by combined UVA + UVB irradiation and D-galactose administration. Skin phenotype, histopathology, oxidative stress, and inflammation-related indicators were evaluated, and representative constituents were identified by HPLC. The loading level of the active extract was screened using a DPPH radical-scavenging assay, and lotion and cream formulations were optimized through emulsification-condition screening and response surface methodology. The final products were further evaluated for appearance, pH, short-term physical stability, moisture-retention performance, and DPPH radical-scavenging capacity. The extract significantly alleviated skin roughness, wrinkle deepening, epidermal thickening, and collagen fiber disorganization in mice, increased SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT activities, and reduced MDA, ROS, 8-oxoG, TNF-α, IL-6, and MMP-3 levels. HPLC identified representative constituents including 6-gingerol, ferulic acid, senkyunolide, ligustilide, atractylenolide, cinnamaldehyde, quercetin, amygdalin, and sarsasapogenin. The optimal loading level was 1.6 μg/mL. The optimized lotion and cream exhibited acceptable appearance, suitable pH, and short-term physical stability under the tested conditions, while retaining measurable DPPH radical-scavenging capacity. These findings indicate that the naturally derived formulation extract exerts anti-photoaging effects by alleviating oxidative damage, suppressing inflammatory responses, and improving extracellular matrix abnormalities, and that it has preliminary potential for topical formulation development. Full article

Background and Objectives: Neuroblastoma represents the most common extracranial solid tumor in childhood and is associated with a poor prognosis in high-risk cases. Amygdalin, a naturally occurring cyanogenic glycoside, has been reported to exhibit anti-tumor properties in various cancer models; however, its effects on neuroblastoma cells remain insufficiently characterized. The present study was conducted with the objective of investigating the effects of amygdalin on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells in vitro. Materials and Methods: The SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells were cultivated under the optimal conditions for their growth. The cytotoxic effect of amygdalin was determined using the CCK8 assay, which is dose- and time-dependent. Total RNA isolation was performed using Trizol. Subsequently, a process of cDNA synthesis was initiated. The real-time PCR method was utilized to ascertain alterations in the expression levels of mRNA molecules associated with apoptosis, namely Bax, Bcl2, caspase-3, caspase-7, caspase-8, caspase-9, caspase-10, NFkB, and invasion-related genes MMP2, MMP9, TIMP1, and TIMP3. Furthermore, alterations in NFkB levels were examined through the utilization of the ELISA method. Results: The IC50 value of amygdalin in SH-SY5Y cells was determined to be 112.7 µM at 24 h. Amygdalin demonstrated a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect on neuroblastoma cells. Furthermore, the study revealed that the drug induced apoptosis through the upregulation of BAX and BID, and the downregulation of BCL-2 and NF-κB. This process led to a reduction in cell proliferation. Furthermore, the study demonstrated an anti-invasive effect through the downregulation of MMP9 and the upregulation of TIMP1 and TIMP3. In addition, a substantial decrease in NF-κB protein concentration was observed. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that amygdalin exerts anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, and anti-invasive effects in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells in vitro. Amygdalin may represent a promising natural compound for further investigation as a potential therapeutic agent in neuroblastoma. Full article

Background/Objectives: Maziren-Wan (MZRW) is a traditional herbal prescription that has been used for the treatment of chronic constipation and is currently available in the form of granules or decoctions. Given its multi-component nature and various dosage forms, evaluating the chemical consistency of MZRW preparations is important for pharmaceutical quality assessment. The aim of the present study was to compare formulation-dependent chemical profiles of different MZRW preparations using a multi-component analytical approach. Methods: An excipient-free reference extract and two commercially available MZRW extract granule products were analyzed using a validated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method operating in multiple reaction monitoring mode. Thirty marker compounds derived from the constituent herbs were simultaneously quantified, and their levels were statistically compared among the preparations. Results: Quantitative analysis revealed formulation-dependent variation in the abundance of several marker compounds. Amygdalin and magnoloside A exhibited markedly higher levels in the excipient-free reference extract than in the commercial granule products, whereas sennoside A showed relatively consistent levels across the preparations. Conclusions: The results indicate that MZRW preparations sharing an identical herbal composition can exhibit formulation-dependent differences in chemical profiles. Comparative evaluation based on multiple marker compounds may provide useful information for assessing chemical consistency and supporting quality assessment of MZRW preparations formulated under different conditions. Full article

The development of new composite wound dressing films that can ensure a moist environment while preventing bacterial growth led this research to obtain novel ternary biopolymer films as a carrier for amygdalin. Due to their accessibility, biocompatibility, and versatility, κ–carrageenan, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, and gelatin were selected as matrix components. This novel film composite was characterized by Fourier–transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric (TG) and Derivative Thermogravimetric (DTG) analysis, and was evaluated in vitro against E. coli and S. aureus. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that increasing the amygdalin content gradually shifted the T_onset and T_max values to higher temperatures, suggesting an improvement in the thermal stability of the composite matrix. In vitro results indicate that increasing the amygdalin concentration resulted in a bacteriostatic efficiency of up to 54% against E. coli, while exhibiting a plateau effect in bactericidal activity. In contrast, no bactericidal activity was observed against S. aureus cultures. Full article

Cancer therapies frequently induce hepatotoxicity, complicating treatment courses and outcomes. Natural products, including polyphenol-rich extracts, have shown hepatoprotective activity via anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, often linked to NF-κB and PI3K–Akt pathways. Apple-derived polyphenols (e.g., phlorizin/phloretin) also demonstrate liver-protective effects in experimental settings. In this study, we examined whether ASE mitigates cancer-related liver damage by rebalancing the apoptosis–survival axis and maintaining PI3K-Akt signaling in an endometrial cancer mouse model. Female Institute of Cancer Research mice with induced endometrial cancer received ASE (0–200 mg) over 13 days; liver tissues were analyzed for Caspase-3, p53, LC3, and SQSTM1 using histology stains, Western blot (e.g., Caspase-3/9, Bcl-xL, PI3K, Akt, PCNA, IGF-IR), ELISA, and qRT-PCR (GAPDH). ImageJ (version 1.54f; RRID: SCR_003070) quantification statistical analysis followed (mean ± SD; post-hoc tests). ASE exhibited dose-dependent modulation of apoptosis and survival readouts in liver tissue of cancer-bearing mice: (i) Caspase-9/3 and Bcl-xL showed differential regulation across doses; (ii) PI3K–Akt and IL-2 signals were preserved or restored toward baseline at specific doses; and (iii) histology indicated partial structural recovery. Thus, ASE may mitigate liver injury by re-balancing apoptosis–survival signaling and promoting structural recovery. Our interpretation emphasizes that dose, route, and formulation are critical for translational potential. Full article

Amygdalin, or vitamin B17, has attracted attention due to its commercial promotion as an anticancer and immune-boosting agent, despite documented concerns regarding its potential toxicity. To address this controversy, the present study demonstrates the protective effects of vitamin B17 against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR), a major risk factor for skin cancer, using the model organism Drosophila melanogaster. Our results showed that vitamin B17 supplementation effectively mitigated the adverse effects of UVR. Flies fed B17-supplemented food prior to UVR exposure displayed markedly higher adult emergence rates, improved climbing ability and shortened developmental time compared to UV-exposed flies on standard food. At the cellular level, B17 supplementation reduced Caspase-3 activation, preserved the structural integrity of compound eyes and mitochondria. Furthermore, biochemical analysis revealed that vitamin B17 reduced levels of oxidative stress markers, such as malondialdehyde, while simultaneously enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and catalase. Overall, these results demonstrate that vitamin B17 protects against UV-induced adverse effects in adult flies, highlighting its potential as a modulator of environmental stressors. However, caution is warranted given its known toxicity profile, which warrants further studies to determine appropriate doses and potential toxicity to other organisms. Full article

Traditional soaking plum wine production is time-consuming and often results in high levels of bitter amygdalin and toxic cyanide, posing health risks. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) with a Box–Behnken design was employed to optimize pulsed electric field (PEF) parameters, developing a novel process integrating kernel detoxification and PEF pretreatment to mitigate these hazards, enhance the characteristic aroma (benzaldehyde), and shorten the maceration cycle. The experimental results showed that the contents of bitter amygdalin and cyanide in plum kernels after detoxification and PEF pretreatment were reduced by 62.34% and 59.62%, respectively, compared with the control group, and the contents of both were further reduced with the addition of plum flesh for further soaking in the new process. In addition, the PEF pretreatment also increased the amount of benzaldehyde extracted by 4.63% compared to the control group and resulted in a 10.53% reduction in equilibration time. Moreover, compared to the previous whole-fruit maceration process, the new process resulted in a 37.5% reduction in the final plum wine production cycle. This study provides a practical solution for improving the safety and efficiency of plum wine production and supports the industrial application of PEF technology. Full article

Apricot kernels (Prunus armeniaca L.) represent a valuable by-product of stone fruit cultivation, offering diverse applications in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. While apricot kernel oil is recognized for its rich composition of unsaturated fatty acids, phenolics, and tocopherols, its therapeutic potential, particularly in cancer prevention, remains unexplored. This study investigated a purified fraction (FOPF) obtained from Farclo variety kernel oil, cultivated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy and selected for its naturally low amygdalin content. In vitro studies demonstrated FOPF’s significant antiproliferative effects against colorectal cancer (LoVo, HT29) and hepatocarcinoma (Hep3B) cell lines, with GI₅₀ values ranging from 0.06 to 0.09 mg/mL. The fraction induced cell cycle arrest and significantly inhibited cancer cell migration, effects mediated through PPAR-γ expression modulation. These findings establish FOPF’s potential as a natural chemopreventive agent and provide a foundation for its development as a nutraceutical ingredient targeting colorectal and hepatic cancers. Full article

In addition to widely consumed dietary seeds, interest has been increasingly directed towards underutilised seeds, such as apricot kernels. These contain both beneficial nutrients and harmful compounds, such as amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside with still-debated effects. The aim of this study was to determine the proximate composition, antioxidant activity, and amygdalin content in apricot seeds of various origins. HPLC analyses were conducted to determine amygdalin content, together with the chemical composition (AOAC), antioxidant activity (ABTS), and the total polyphenols content of these seeds (Folin–Ciocalteu reagent). The apricot seed samples demonstrated considerable variability in their composition, revealing generally high levels of protein, fat, ash, carbohydrates, total polyphenols, and antioxidants. The amygdalin content was determined at the level of 89.1 mg/100 g in apricot seeds from Armenia compared to 879.6 mg/100 g in apricot seeds purchased at retail in Poland. In the tested apricot seeds, the highest content of polyphenols, the highest antioxidant activity, and, concurrently, the lowest content of amygdalin were found in apricot seeds from Armenia. Apricot seeds, especially those that originated from Armenia, might be a future sustainable source of crucial nutrients, characterised by satisfactory antioxidative properties and a low content of potentially toxic amygdalin. Full article

This study analyzed the chemical, functional, and bioactive properties of a protein preparation obtained from bird cherry (Prunus padus L.) flour. The extraction process significantly increased the protein content from 15.44 g/100 g to 39.72 g/100 g and altered the lipid composition, with an increase in saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The protein preparation exhibited high solubility (76%) and water-binding capacity, demonstrating technological potential for use in the production of plant-based beverages and emulsions. Changes in color and emulsifying properties indicated its suitability for incorporation into colored food products. The analysis of total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and amygdalin showed that the extraction process largely retained these bioactive properties, although individual phenolic compounds were not profiled. This study is the first to provide a comprehensive characterization of the protein fraction from Prunus padus L. flour, encompassing chemical, functional, and bioactive properties, thereby filling a significant gap in the literature. In summary, bird cherry flour is an attractive source of natural proteins and bioactive compounds, with potential applications in the food industry, while maintaining a favorable nutritional and functional profile. To date, no comprehensive chemical, functional, and bioactive characterization of the protein fraction from Prunus padus L. flour has been reported. Full article

Biopolymer films doped with active substances may become a promising alternative to traditional dressings for skin wounds, as they can deliver drugs while maintaining wound moisture, thus contributing to the healing process. This article describes the preparation of amygdalin-doped biopolymer films for in vitro testing against the bacterial strains typical of chronic wounds: E. coli and S. aureus. Thus, FTIR characterization suggests minimal chemical interaction between amygdalin and the biopolymer matrix components, indicating potential compatibility, while thermogravimetric analysis highlights the thermal behavior of the films as well as the influence of the polymer matrix composition on the amount of bound water and the shift of T_peak value for the decomposition process of the base polymer. Moreover, the identity of the secondary biopolymer (gelatin or CMC) significantly influences film morphology and antibacterial performance. Full article

Dialium guineense (velvet tamarind), Parkia biglobosa Jacq. (African locust bean) and Adanosonia digitata L. (baobab) are fruits from African plants whose nutritional potential remains poorly characterised. As such, their pulps and seeds were analysed for colour (CIELab system), moisture, ash, protein, fat, soluble and insoluble dietary fibre, free sugars (HPLC-RI), organic acids (HPLC-PDA), macro and microelements (XRF analyser) and amygdalin (HPLC-PDA). The colours of their pulps differed considerable (ΔE > 38 between the velvet tamarind and African locust bean) and the moisture content was lower in seeds (about 7%) compared to pulps (9–13%). Seeds were more concentrated in protein (20–28%) and fat (5–22%), whereas pulps were richer in sugar (1–12%). African locust bean pulp was the sweetest (39% total sugar), while baobab pulp contained the highest soluble fibre (>30%) and citric acid (3.2%), and velvet tamarind pulp was distinguished by its tartaric acid content (3.4%). Seeds of the African fruits presented higher Ca, P, S and Fe contents, whereas pulps had higher K content. No amygdalin (<6.34 mg per 100 g of dry weight) or toxic heavy metal contents were detected. The PCA segregated samples by pulp and seed and the PC1 explains the sugar and moisture of the pulps, while protein, fat and minerals are associated with the seeds. These data confirm that African fruit pulps and seeds have distinct functional profiles, are safe for food use and can be consumed, which is important for efforts to promote the conservation of these tropical plant species. Full article

Yinhua Pinggan Granules (YPG) is a patented traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compound prescription, with wide clinical application against cold, cough, and relevant diseases. However, the chemical profiles of YPG in vivo are still unknown, hindering further pharmacological and quality control (QC) researches. This study presents an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS)-based method. Using the Compound Discoverer platform and a self-built ‘in-house’ compound database, the metabolic profiles and pharmacokinetics characters of YPG were investigated. Consequently, a total of 230 compounds (including 39 prototype components and 191 metabolites) were tentatively identified, in which the parent compounds were mainly flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids, and the main metabolic pathways of metabolites include hydration, dehydration, and oxidation. The serum concentration of seven major representative compounds, including quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, amygdalin, 3′-methoxypuerarin, puerarin, glycyrrhizic acid, and polydatin, were also measured, to elucidate their pharmacokinetics behaviors in vivo. The pharmacokinetic study showed that the seven representative compounds were quantified in rat plasma within 5 min post-administration, with T_max of less than 2 h, followed by a gradual decline in concentration over a 10 h period. The method demonstrated excellent linearity (R² > 0.998), precision, and recovery (RSD < 15%). As the first systematic characterization of YPG’ s in vivo components and metabolites using UHPLC-MS, this study may contribute to comprehensively elucidate the metabolic profiles of the major components in YPG, and provide a critical foundation for further investigation on the QC and bioactivity research of YPG. Full article

The African tropical fruits velvet tamarind, African locust beans and baobab are used as foods and for medicinal purposes, and they are important nutrient and bioactive compound sources. This research focused on the nutritional composition and bioactive compounds in the fruit pulps and seeds of these plant species. Quantification and profiling of sugars, organic acids and phenolic compounds (HPLC), soluble and insoluble fibre content analysis (enzymatic method) and elemental analysis (XRF) were performed. The total phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity contents (spectrophotometry) and fatty acids quantification profiles (GC) were also accessed. Several bioactive compounds were quantified. Generally, fruit pulps are richer in sugars and organic acids, and seeds are richer in protein and fat. Full article

The aroma and nutrition of Japanese apricot fruit change continuously as the fruit ripens. The differences in fruit aroma and nutrition can affect the resulting wine, which is produced by steeping the Japanese apricot fruit. In this study, we used HS-SPME-GC-MS to examine the aromatic compositions of Japanese apricot fruit and wine produced from its macerated fruit at different levels of ripeness. We employed UPLC to examine the nutritional components such as organic acids, amygdalin, and phenolics to support the identification of the optimal ripening time. The microwave aging technology was also used to treat the steeped mume wine in order to explore the optimal conditions for microwave aging. We found that the optimum aroma period for the ‘Nannong Longxia’ fruit was 81 d after flowering. Furthermore, the changes in the aroma of mume wine after steeping in 65%vol base wine were closer to those of the fruit than those of 42%vol base wine, and the optimum period for the aroma of mume wine after steeping was the same as the fruit. Analysis showed that the optimum nutritional period for the fruit coincided with the optimum aromatic period. The best aromatic and nutritional components of the finished wine were obtained when the fruit was picked 81 days after flowering and the steeped mume wine was made with a 65%vol base wine. Microwave aging technology can significantly increase the proportion of esters in the aroma composition and reduce the content of acids. Among them, 500 W treatment at 50 °C for 80 min had the best effect on improving aroma components. These findings represent a theoretical foundation for exploring the aroma optimum period for Japanese apricot fruit and steeped mume wine, and for determining the optimum harvest periods for production. Full article