Search Results (18,828)

Probiotic strains with multifunctional skin-beneficial properties represent promising candidates for next-generation cosmetic ingredients. In this study, a systematic stepwise screening strategy was applied to an in-house bacterial library comprising 302 isolates to identify candidates with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, wound-healing, and skin barrier-supportive activities. From this library, 33 strains were selected based on preliminary assessments and subjected to comprehensive in vitro evaluation. Cell viability and cytotoxicity assays confirmed the safety of all selected strains in RAW264.7 macrophages and HaCaT keratinocytes. Several strains exhibited strong DPPH radical scavenging activity and significantly inhibited nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Among the selected candidates, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus DM073 demonstrated the most potent anti-inflammatory activity, whereas Lactiplantibacillus plantarum DM043 exhibited the greatest wound-healing capacity. All five selected strains displayed antimicrobial activity against Cutibacterium acnes. Furthermore, selected strains, particularly Lactiplantibacillus plantarum DM175 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius DM079, enhanced the expression of skin barrier-related genes, including zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin (OCLN), claudin-1 (Cla-1), and filaggrin (FLG), and partially restored their expression under TNF-α/IFN-γ-induced inflammatory conditions. Selected strains also reduced the expression of inflammatory chemokines in stimulated keratinocytes. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that the selected probiotic strains possess complementary multifunctional activities associated with skin health. In particular, DM073 exhibited superior anti-inflammatory activity, DM043 showed strong wound-healing potential, and DM175 demonstrated remarkable skin barrier-supportive effects. These strain-specific properties support their potential application in the development of probiotic-derived postbiotic cosmetic ingredients for skin soothing, barrier reinforcement, skin recovery, and microbiome-friendly skincare formulations. Further studies are warranted to evaluate their efficacy and safety in advanced skin models and clinical cosmetic applications. Full article

Rutin is a flavonoid glycoside with well-documented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in preclinical models, but its oral bioavailability is poor due to extensive presystemic metabolism. Following oral administration, intact rutin reaches the colon largely unabsorbed, where gut microbiota convert it to quercetin aglycone, which is further metabolized to circulating conjugated metabolites and local phenolic acid derivatives. Accumulating evidence, derived predominantly from preclinical studies, suggests this metabolic activation can be usefully conceptualized as a microbiota-activated prodrug system. This challenges conventional formulation strategies that only increase parent compound exposure. In this review, we propose a metabolism-oriented conceptual framework for oral rutin delivery design. We compare nano-delivery systems and structural modifications strategies across pharmacokinetics, metabolic regulation, safety, manufacturability, and translational feasibility. Nano-delivery systems are functionally reclassified into four absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion (ADME) -oriented categories based on their primary pharmacokinetic objectives. While numerous preclinical studies report improved bioavailability and efficacy, human metabolite-resolved pharmacokinetic data remain extremely limited, and no European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) -authorized health claims exist for rutin. This review provides a new conceptual framework for selecting oral rutin delivery strategies based on metabolic objectives rather than solely on improving solubility or systemic exposure. Full article

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a globally distributed hereditary red cell disorder with still high mortality. Growing evidence indicates that sickle cell related cardiovascular disease contributes to the early death of adults with SCD. Here, we show that humanized SCD mice developed an age-dependent cardiomyopathy characterized by (i) increased circulating Th17 lymphocytes, Th17 heart infiltration associated with increased plasma IL-17; (ii) collagen deposition and activation of both platelet derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) canonical pathways; (iii) overactivation of heart NF-κB associated with up-regulation of NLRP3 and of inflammatory vasculopathy markers. We then used colchicine (CLC) that acts as anti-inflammatory drug with immunomodulatory effects. In humanized SCD mice, we demonstrated the protective role of low-dose CLC treatment against chronic inflammation and preserving myocardial performance. Of note, we found CLC also attenuating sickle cell related lung damage, suggesting a multiorgan effect of CLC in SCD mice. Our data generate the rationale to further explore CLC as new therapeutic tool to treat early stages of sickle cell cardiomyopathy. Full article

Chronic pain affects hundreds of millions of people and remains poorly managed, as the most effective drugs, including opioids, carry side effects that limit long-term use. Because inflammation drives both the initiation and maintenance of chronic pain, anti-inflammatory mechanisms are an attractive analgesic target. We investigated human alpha-1 antitrypsin (hAAT), a serine proteinase inhibitor with potent anti-inflammatory activity and established protection across disease models, as a candidate analgesic, using Aralast NP^®, a clinical-grade, already-approved formulation that makes findings directly translatable. Using calcium imaging and patch-clamp electrophysiology in mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, we found that hAAT reduced activation of low-voltage-activated Ca²⁺ channels and dampened intrinsic excitability. Veratridine-evoked Ca²⁺ responses, a sodium-channel-dependent readout of nociceptor activity, were suppressed by hAAT to a degree comparable to the selective sodium channel inhibitors ProTx-II (Na_V1.7) and VX-548 (Na_V1.8), driven by loss of the nociceptor-associated response profiles. In vivo, hAAT decreased pain sensitivity and pain-associated behaviors in both inflammatory and neuropathic models. Together, these findings reveal a mechanism by which hAAT suppresses nociceptor activity and position Aralast NP^® as a safe, effective candidate for treating chronic pain. Full article

Citrus fruits are among the most widely cultivated and consumed crops worldwide, exhibiting a complex evolutionary history driven by extensive hybridization and genomic admixture. They are widely appreciated for their sensory quality, rich nutritional composition, and health-promoting benefits, as well as for their significant contribution to the global economy. Considering the growing interest in citrus crops and particularly in citrus by-products as valuable natural resources, as evidenced in the comprehensive literature search, this study provides an overview of recent advances in our understanding of citrus origin, genetic diversity and global production trends. It also examines the phytochemical composition of citrus fruits and by-products and discusses the biological activities associated with these constituents, including antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as their potential health benefits. Additionally, conventional and environmentally friendly strategies for the utilization of citrus residues are presented within a biorefinery framework, with particular emphasis on the recovery and valorization of bioactive compounds. These circular economy approaches highlight the potential use of citrus by-products as valuable raw materials for applications in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields. Overall, this review aims to provide a better understanding of citrus history, composition and potential applications that could support the sustainable and resource-efficient use of citrus substrates in industrial practice for the development of high-value products. Full article

Objectives: Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated disorder triggered by gluten ingestion. Although a gluten-free diet (GFD) is the only effective treatment, patients may still experience inflammation, nutritional imbalances, and reduced quality of life. Physical activity (PA) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory benefits; however, its role in CD management remains unclear. This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence on the associations of PA and the outcomes of exercise interventions in individuals with CD, focusing on metabolic, nutritional, clinical, and functional outcomes. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we included peer-reviewed observational and experimental studies assessing PA in individuals with CD across all age groups, without language or date restrictions. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, and SPORTDiscus. The risk of bias was evaluated using JBI and Cochrane RoB 2 tools. Results: Fourteen studies (17 publications) were included, the vast majority of which were cross-sectional, along with one quasi-experimental study and two randomized controlled trial cohorts reported across five publications. Data from these predominantly observational studies suggested possible, yet inconsistent, links between higher PA levels and better profiles in body composition, inflammatory and oxidative markers, quality of life, and psychological outcomes. Positive associations were also observed in some studies regarding gastrointestinal symptoms and adherence to the GFD. However, findings on metabolic markers and bone mineral density were inconsistent and linked to dietary factors. Conclusions: While PA represents a potential adjunct in the comprehensive management of CD, particularly in relation to functional and inflammatory outcomes. However, the current evidence remains highly preliminary, limited, and inconsistent, which restricts the strength of any definitive conclusions. Therefore, high-quality, longitudinal studies and well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm its long-term benefits, especially in the pediatric population, and to establish specific recommendations. Full article

Vinasse, a major by-product of Fenjiu liquor production, is enriched with polysaccharides. However, their structural characteristics and potential anti-inflammatory functions remain unclear. In this study, polysaccharides from Fenjiu vinasse (VPS) were extracted and fractionated into seven sub-fractions (VPS-20 to VPS-80) via sequential alcohol precipitation. The molecular weight (Mw) of the fractions gradually decreased with increasing ethanol concentration. Monosaccharide composition analysis revealed that VPS and its fractions were mainly composed of glucose, mannose, and galactose. Among them, VPS-30 exhibited the most potent anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages by significantly reducing NO, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α production. Structural characterization by methylation analysis and NMR spectroscopy indicated that VPS-30 contained six major glycosidic linkages, including 2,3-Araf, T-Manp, 4-Manp, 3-Galp, 4-Glcp, and 4,6-Manp, and its detailed structure was predicted. Furthermore, in DSS-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) mice, VPS-30 markedly alleviated colonic inflammation, restored intestinal barrier integrity by upregulating MUC-2, occludin, and ZO-1, and reshaped gut microbiota diversity, particularly by increasing beneficial genera such as Limosilactobacillus, Butyricicoccus, and Ligilactobacillus. Overall, these findings suggest that Fenjiu vinasse polysaccharides exert significant anti-inflammatory effects and may serve as promising functional food candidates for UC intervention. Full article

Background: Geraniol is an acyclic monoterpene widely distributed in the essential oils of aromatic species such as Cymbopogon citratus, Pelargonium graveolens, and Rosa damascena, It is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antitumor activities. Methods: This study aimed to investigate, through network pharmacology and computational ADMET modeling, the molecular mechanisms and pharmacological potential of geraniol, integrating drug-likeness parameters, toxicity prediction, and multitarget interactions. Results: A total of 25 core targets were identified, mainly involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and transcriptional regulation. Geraniol exhibited a favorable drug-likeness profile, high predicted intestinal absorption, and low systemic toxicity, supporting its pharmaceutical applicability. Mechanistically, it modulates the Nrf2/HO-1 ↔ NF-κB axis, reducing reactive oxygen species, pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and apoptotic markers (caspases, Bax), while enhancing antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx) and antiapoptotic proteins (Bcl-2). Conclusions: These findings confirm its multitarget and pleiotropic nature, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic candidate for inflammatory, metabolic, and neurodegenerative disorders. Furthermore, this study provides a robust mechanistic rationale for future in vitro and in vivo validation, as well as for the design of nanostructured formulations to improve geraniol’s bioavailability and therapeutic safety. Full article

Marine-derived bioactive compounds have attracted considerable attention as functional ingredients for food and nutraceutical applications due to their various biological activities. Among marine resources, macroalgae represent a sustainable and abundant source of structurally diverse bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, pigments, and polysaccharides. This review provides a comprehensive overview of macroalgal bioactive compounds, with particular emphasis on their sources, the environmental and seasonal factors influencing their composition, chemical classification and characteristics, extraction technologies, biological properties and food and nutraceutical applications. Particularly, attention is given to the molecular mechanisms underlying their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, including radical scavenging, metal chelation, modulation of endogenous antioxidant defense systems, and regulation of key signaling pathways involved in inflammation. Green extraction techniques and encapsulation strategies for improving the stability, bioavailability, and functionality of macroalgal bioactives are critically discussed. Current applications in foods and nutraceutical products are reviewed alongside the major challenges related to biomass variability, large-scale production, standardization, and regulatory compliance. Overall, macroalgal bioactive compounds represent a promising class of sustainable health-promoting ingredients, and continued advances in cultivation, processing, extraction technologies, formulation, and regulatory frameworks will be essential to support their broader industrial utilization. Full article

Myocardial infarction remains a leading cause of heart failure owing to the limited regenerative capacity of adult cardiac tissue, underscoring the need for biomimetic therapeutic platforms that combine structural support with biological functionality. Accordingly, this study aimed to develop a multifunctional electrospun cardiac patch by integrating decellularized neonatal porcine myocardial extracellular matrix (dECM), gelatin, and microbiota-derived postbiotics for cardiac tissue engineering. The fabricated patches were comprehensively characterized in terms of their morphology, mechanical properties, biodegradation behavior, antibacterial activity, antioxidant capacity, and in vitro biocompatibility. Postbiotics derived from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum EIR/IF-1 exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, strong antioxidant capacity, and significant anti-inflammatory activity through the suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators and upregulation of IL-10 expression. Moreover, they protected H9c2 cardiomyoblasts from oxidative stress, promoted COL1A1 expression, and supported ECM remodeling. The fabricated electrospun cardiac patches exhibited a homogeneous nanofibrous architecture, mechanically suitable properties (Young’s modulus ~4 MPa), controlled biodegradation over 7 days, favorable cell viability, and maintained the biological functionality of the incorporated postbiotics. Overall, the synergistic integration of tissue-specific dECM and microbiota-derived postbiotics yielded a multifunctional biohybrid cardiac patch with favorable structural and biological properties, supporting its potential as a promising platform for myocardial regeneration and next-generation cardiac tissue engineering. Full article

Background/Objectives: Persicaria senticosa (Meisn.) H.Gross (PS) has anti-photoaging, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, but the anti-pigmentation potential of the PS flower absolute (PSFAb) remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to examine the chemical composition and anti-melanogenic and melanosome transport-inhibitory effects of PSFAb using B16BL6 murine melanoma cells. Methods: PSFAb was extracted with hexane and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The biological activities in B16BL6 murine melanoma cells were evaluated using water-soluble tetrazolium salt (WST) assays, 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and immunoblotting methods. Results: GC-MS analysis identified eight constituents in PSFAb. Cell viability was not significantly altered in B16BL6 cells at concentrations ≤ 100 μg/mL, which were used for additional tests. PSFAb inhibited serum-induced cell proliferation and suppressed α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity in B16BL6 cells. PSFAb also downregulated the α-MSH-induced expression of key melanogenic regulators, including microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP-1), and TRP-2. PSFAb decreased extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation but enhanced JNK phosphorylation in α-MSH-stimulated B16BL6 cells. Furthermore, PSFAb reduced the α-MSH-induced expression of melanosome transport-related proteins (melanophilin and Rab27a) in B16BL6 cells. Conclusions: Overall, these results suggest that PSFAb has the potential to exert anti-pigmentation effects by suppressing melanogenesis and downregulating melanosome transport-related proteins. Therefore, PSFAb may be a promising candidate for the development of natural agents targeting hyperpigmentation and skin pigmentation regulation. Full article

Background: Vaccinium berries are rich in polyphenolic compounds with recognized health properties; however, studies integrating phytochemical characterization with functional cellular assays remain limited. This study comparatively evaluated wild (Vaccinium myrtillus L., VM) and cultivated blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L., VC) using phytochemical profiling alongside in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity testing. Six samples from Romanian regions were extracted using ultrasound-assisted methods, then analyzed for total phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC). Anthocyanins were further characterized by LC–MS/MS. The most bioactive extracts were tested for cytocompatibility, intracellular ROS modulation in Caco-2 cells, and anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells. VM extracts showed higher total phenolic, anthocyanin contents, and antioxidant capacity than VC, with LC–MS/MS confirming a richer anthocyanin profile and differences in other phenolic compounds. Both extracts significantly reduced intracellular ROS in H₂O₂-stimulated Caco-2 cells and decreased IL-8 secretion in LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells, with a more pronounced dose-dependent anti-inflammatory effect for VM. These findings demonstrate that phytochemical differences between wild and cultivated Vaccinium species translate into distinct biological activities at the cellular level. The integrated approach provides a mechanistic link between composition and function, supporting the superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of VM and its relevance for functional food and nutraceutical applications. Full article

Background and objective: A huge part of cosmetics research is devoted to the identification of new molecules and new ingredients which could prevent skin aging. Crithmum maritimum has attracted interest in the cosmetic field because it has been used since antiquity in traditional medicine and is traditionally consumed in Mediterranean regions. However, data about demonstrated efficacy on living cells remain sparse. To better understand the potential of this plant for the cosmetics industry, we aimed to investigate in vitro some key properties in line with anti-aging skin care. Methods and results: Molecular results demonstrated an impressive antioxidant effect which was confirmed in vitro on living keratinocytes with a decrease of 50% of oxidative stress measured with the fluorescent CM-H₂DCFDA probe. Additionally, an inhibitory effect around 20% was observed on isolated collagenase and elastase, highlighting the ability of C. maritimum to preserve the skin matrix. Lastly, anti-inflammatory properties were explored at protein levels by ELISA method, indicating a clear decrease of six inflammatory mediators, IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, CXCL9, CXCL10, and CCL5, on stressed keratinocytes. These observed decreases span from 20% up to 75% in the case of the IL-18. Conclusions: All together, these results reveal how efficient C. maritimum extract could be to alleviate signs of aging. Full article

Inflammation-induced placental dysfunction is a major contributor to pregnancy complications. Activation of NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasome pathways in the placenta is a key driver of this pathology. Decursinol, a natural coumarin derivative from Angelica gigas, possesses anti-inflammatory properties; however, its effect on placental inflammation remains unclear. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the protective effects of decursinol against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced placental inflammation and trophoblast dysfunction and explored the underlying molecular mechanisms. Decursinol significantly inhibited LPS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation and NF-κB/p65 signaling in Sw.71 human trophoblast cells, reducing interleukin-1β secretion and pro-inflammatory gene expression. It restored the trophoblast invasive capacity and preserved mesenchymal marker expression suppressed by LPS. It also improved the fetal and placental weights, restored the placental architecture, and attenuated placental NLRP3 inflammasome activation and cytokine expression in vivo. Mechanistically, decursinol preserved the mitochondrial homeostasis, reduced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels, and upregulated antioxidants and mitochondrial biogenesis-related gene levels, exerting effects comparable to those of mitochondria-targeted antioxidant Mito-TEMPO. These findings suggest that decursinol protects against LPS-induced trophoblast dysfunction and adverse pregnancy outcomes by preserving mitochondrial functions and suppressing NLRP3/NF-κB-mediated inflammation. Overall, our results highlight decursinol as a promising therapeutic candidate for inflammation-associated pregnancy complications. Full article

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health challenge, compounded by rising drug resistance. Traditional medicinal plants used for TB-related symptoms represent a valuable yet underexplored source of potential antimycobacterial agents. In this study, the phytochemical content and biological activities of Dombeya rotundifolia and Lippia javanica were evaluated, and antimycobacterial compounds were isolated through bioassay-guided fractionation. Plant leaves were collected, extracted with solvents of varying polarity, and screened for phenolics and flavonoids. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH and ferric reducing power assays, antimycobacterial activity was tested against Mycobacterium smegmatis, anti-inflammatory activity was determined by the egg albumin denaturation method, and cytotoxicity was evaluated in THP-1 cells using the MTT assay. Extraction yields varied, with water extracts of L. javanica showing the highest yield and hexane extracts of D. rotundifolia the lowest. Both plants contained bioactive phytochemicals with measurable antioxidant activity, while acetone and dichloromethane extracts of D. rotundifolia displayed the strongest antimycobacterial activity with MIC values of 0.16 mg/mL. Cytotoxicity assays indicated moderate toxicity at higher extract concentrations. Bioassay-guided isolation led to the identification of two fatty acid fractions with tentative characterization, which showed notable antimycobacterial activity (MIC 0.25 mg/mL). These findings provide preliminary support for the ethnomedicinal use of D. rotundifolia in respiratory conditions traditionally associated with tuberculosis and suggest a potential contribution of its fatty acids to its observed antimycobacterial activity. Full article