Search Results (10,269)

Avocado (Persea americana), originally from Mesoamerica, has emerged as a focus of intense scientific and industrial interest due to its unique combination of nutritional richness, bioactive potential, and technological versatility. Its pulp, widely consumed across the globe, is notably abundant in monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, which can comprise over two-thirds of its lipid content. In addition, it provides significant levels of dietary fiber, fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K, carotenoids, tocopherols, and phytosterols like β-sitosterol. These constituents are consistently associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, glycemic regulatory, and cardioprotective effects, supported by a growing body of experimental and clinical evidence. This review offers a comprehensive and critical synthesis of the chemical composition and functional properties of avocado, with particular emphasis on its lipid profile, phenolic compounds, and phytosterols. It also explores recent advances in environmentally sustainable extraction techniques, including ultrasound-assisted and microwave-assisted processes, as well as the application of natural deep eutectic solvents. These technologies have demonstrated improved efficiency in recovering bioactives while aligning with the principles of green chemistry. The use of avocado-derived ingredients in nanostructured delivery systems and their incorporation into functional foods, cosmetics, and health-promoting formulations is discussed in detail. Additionally, the potential of native cultivars and the application of precision nutrition strategies are identified as promising avenues for future innovation. Taken together, the findings underscore the avocado’s relevance as a high-value matrix for sustainable development. Future research should focus on optimizing extraction protocols, clarifying pharmacokinetic behavior, and ensuring long-term safety in diverse applications. Full article

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA), a leading cause of disability among the elderly, is characterized by progressive joint tissue destruction. Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide with known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, has been investigated for its potential to protect against interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)-induced articular tissue damage. Methods: Human primary chondrocytes and synovial fibroblasts were pre-treated with 100 μg/mL fucoidan before stimulation with 1 ng/mL of IL-1β. The protective effects of fucoidan were assessed by measuring oxidative stress markers and catabolic enzyme levels. These in vitro findings were corroborated using a rat anterior cruciate ligament transection-induced OA model. To explore the underlying mechanisms, particularly the interaction between microRNAs (miRs) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), five candidate miRs were identified in silico and experimentally validated. Luciferase reporter assays were used to confirm direct interactions. Results: Fucoidan exhibited protective effects against IL-1β-induced oxidative stress and catabolic processes in both chondrocytes and synovial fibroblasts, consistent with in vivo observations. Fucoidan treatment restored HO-1 expression while reducing inducible nitric oxide synthase and matrix metalloproteinase levels in IL-1β-stimulated cells. Notably, this study revealed that fucoidan modulates the miR-22/HO-1 pathway, a previously uncharacterized mechanism in OA. Specifically, miR-22 was upregulated by IL-1β and subsequently attenuated by fucoidan. Luciferase reporter assays confirmed a direct interaction between miR-22 and HO-1. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that fucoidan mitigates OA-related oxidative stress in chondrocytes and synovial fibroblasts through the novel modulation of the miR-22/HO-1 axis. The miR-22/HO-1 pathway represents a crucial therapeutic target for OA, and fucoidan may offer a promising therapeutic intervention. Full article

Skin disorders are common and often chronic conditions with significant therapeutic challenges. Limitations of conventional treatments, such as adverse effects and antimicrobial resistance, have increased interest in plant-based alternatives. This article presents the phytochemical composition and pharmacological potential of several medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment of skin diseases, including Rubus vulgaris, Plantago major, Artemisia terrae-albae, and Eryngium planum. Based on an analysis of scientific literature, the presence of bioactive compounds—including flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, tannins, and sesquiterpenes—is summarized, along with their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Emphasis is placed on the correlation between traditional ethnomedicinal applications and pharmacological mechanisms. The findings support the potential of these species as sources for dermatological phytotherapeutics. Further research is needed to standardize active constituents, assess safety, and conduct clinical validation. Full article

Resveratrol is a natural stilbene known for its wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects. However, its application in cosmetics and dermatology is limited by poor stability and bioavailability. Azelaic acid is a natural carboxylic acid employed in cosmetics for its tyrosinase inhibition activity and for cutaneous hyperpigmentation disorders. In this work, we report a concise chemoenzymatic procedure for the synthesis of a novel hybrid molecule combining acetylated resveratrol and azelaic acid. This methodology offers a valuable route for the development of new bioactive compounds for potential cosmetic and dermatological applications. Full article

Background/Objective: Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) is a substantial contributor to mortality in critically ill patients. This study aimed to investigate the impact of gum acacia (GA) and dexamethasone (DEX) combination on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced SA-AKI in rats. Methods: Thirty-six male Sprague Dawley rats were separated into six groups, including the control, GA group, LPS-induced AKI group, DEX + LPS group, GA + LPS group, and GA + DEX + LPS group. AKI was induced in rats using LPS (10 mg/kg, i.p.). GA was administered orally (7.5 g/kg) for 14 days before LPS injection, and DEX was injected (1 mg/kg, i.p.) 2 h after LPS injection. Results: LPS injection significantly (p < 0.05, vs. control group) impaired renal function, as evidenced through increased levels of kidney function biomarkers, decreased creatinine clearance, and histopathological alterations in the kidneys. LPS also significantly (p < 0.05, vs. control group) elevated levels of oxidative stress markers, while it reduced levels of antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, LPS triggered an inflammatory response, manifested by significant (p < 0.05, vs. control group) upregulation of Toll-like receptor 4, myeloid differentiation primary response 88, interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and nuclear factor-κB, along with increased expression of high-mobility group box 1. Administration of GA significantly ameliorated LPS-induced renal impairment by enhancing antioxidant defenses and suppressing inflammatory pathways (p < 0.05, vs. LPS group). Furthermore, GA-DEX-treated rats showed improved kidney function, reduced oxidative stress, and attenuated inflammatory markers (p < 0.05, vs. LPS group). Conclusions: The GA-DEX combination exhibited potent renoprotective effects against LPS-induced SA-AKI, possibly due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These results suggest that the GA-DEX combination could be a promising and effective therapeutic agent for managing SA-AKI. Full article

Flavonoids constitute a broad class of naturally occurring chemical compounds classified as polyphenols, widely present in various plants, fruits, and vegetables. They share a common flavone backbone, composed of two aromatic rings (A and B) connected by a three-carbon bridge forming a heterocyclic ring (C). One representative flavonoid is chrysin, a compound found in honey, propolis, and passionflower (Passiflora spp.). Chrysin exhibits a range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotective, and anxiolytic effects. Its biological activity is primarily attributed to the presence of hydroxyl groups, which facilitate the neutralization of free radicals and the modulation of intracellular signaling pathways. Cellular uptake of chrysin and other flavonoids occurs mainly through passive diffusion; however, certain forms may be transported via specific membrane-associated carrier proteins. Despite its therapeutic potential, chrysin’s bioavailability is significantly limited due to poor aqueous solubility and rapid metabolism in the gastrointestinal tract and liver, which reduces its systemic efficacy. Ongoing research aims to enhance chrysin’s bioavailability through the development of delivery systems such as lipid-based carriers and nanoparticles. Full article

The genus Anisosciadium, belonging to the Apiaceae family, has been traditionally recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. However, scientific research on this genus is still limited, highlighting the need for a comprehensive review of its chemical composition and pharmacological characteristics. A comprehensive compilation of data was conducted using major databases such as Google Scholar, Research Gate, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. In this review, we collected and organized the available information of identified compounds from different species of the genus Anisosciadium, covering the literature from 2003 to 2024. In total, 64 phytoconstituents were detected. The findings suggest that the traditional therapeutic properties of Anisosciadium are well supported by the reported pharmacological activities from previous studies. Notably, these studies highlight its antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxic effects, emphasizing the potential of this genus in the development of new therapeutic agents. Nonetheless, the lack of comparative studies among Anisosciadium species and the scarcity of in vivo studies and clinical trials limit the full realization of its therapeutic potential. Specifically, comparative studies could be crucial in identifying species with unique chemical profiles and understanding how variations in secondary metabolite compositions may influence their pharmacological activities. Full article

Background/Objectives: Chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain (CINP) represents a critical challenge in oncology, emerging as a common and debilitating side effect of widely used chemotherapeutic agents, such as paclitaxel (PTX). Current therapeutic interventions and preventive strategies for CINP are largely insufficient, as they fail to address the underlying peripheral nerve damage, highlighting an urgent need for the development of new drugs. This study aimed to investigate the dual-function effects on normal cell protection and tumor suppression of BMX-001, a redox-active manganese metalloporphyrin that has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which offers potential in protecting central nervous system tissues and treating CINP. Methods: This study assessed BMX-001’s different roles in protecting normal cells while acting as a pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory molecule in cancer cells in vitro. We also evaluated its neuroprotective effect in preclinical PTX-induced CINP models in vivo. Results: Our results showed significant reductions in mechanical and cold allodynia, decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and restored antioxidant capacity in peripheral nerves and dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) following BMX-001 treatment. Conclusions: Overall, our study highlights the therapeutic potential of BMX-001 to mitigate CINP and enhance anticancer efficiency. Its dual-selective mechanism supports the future clinical investigation of BMX-001 as a novel adjunct to chemotherapeutic regimens. Full article

Callistemon citrinus has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in certain tissues. However, its impact on the brain remains unproven. This study investigates the effect of C. citrinus extract and phytosomes on the oxidative status of the brains of rats fed a high-fat–fructose diet (HFD). Fifty-four male Wistar rats were randomly divided into nine groups (n = 6). Groups 1, 2, and 3 received a standard chow diet; Group 2 also received the vehicle, and Group 3 was supplemented with C. citrinus extract (200 mg/kg). Groups 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 received a high-fat diet (HFD). Additionally, groups 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 were supplemented with orlistat at 5 mg/kg, C. citrinus extract at 200 mg/kg, and phytosomes loaded with C. citrinus at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, respectively. Administration was oral for 16 weeks. Antioxidant enzymes, biomarkers of oxidative stress, and fatty acid content in the brain were determined. A parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA) was employed to identify compounds that can cross the intestinal and blood–brain barriers. The HFD group (group 4) increased body weight and adipose tissue, unlike the other groups. The brain fatty acid profile showed slight variations in all of the groups. On the other hand, group 4 showed a decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, and PON. It reduced GSH level, while increasing GPx activity as well as MDA, 4-HNE, and AOPP levels. C. citrinus extract and phytosomes restore the antioxidant enzyme activities and mitigate oxidative stress in the brain. C. citrinus modulates oxidative stress in brain tissue through 1.8-cineole and α-terpineol, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Full article

Honey is a natural product of honeybees that has been consumed for centuries due to its nutritional value and potential health benefits. Recent scientific research has focused on its antioxidant capacity, which is linked to a variety of bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids, enzymes (e.g., glucose oxidase, catalase), flavonoids, ascorbic acid, carotenoids, amino acids, and proteins. Together, these components work synergistically to neutralize free radicals, regulate antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduce oxidative stress. This review decisively outlines the antioxidant effects of honey and presents compelling clinical and experimental evidence supporting its critical role in preventing diseases associated with oxidative stress. Honey stands out for its extensive health benefits, which include robust protection against cardiovascular issues, notable anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects, enhanced glycemic control in diabetes, immune modulation, neuroprotection, and effective wound healing. As a recognized functional food and dietary supplement, honey is essential for the prevention and adjunct treatment of chronic diseases. However, it faces challenges due to variations in composition linked to climatic conditions, geographical and floral sources, as well as hive management practices. The limited number of large-scale clinical trials further underscores the need for more research. Future studies must focus on elucidating honey’s antioxidant mechanisms, standardizing its bioactive compounds, and examining its synergistic effects with other natural antioxidants to fully harness its potential. Full article

Alopecia, a prevalent dermatological disorder affecting over half of the global population, is strongly associated with psychological distress. Extracts from Periplaneta americana (L. PA), a medicinal insect resource, exhibit pharmacological activities (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, microcirculation improvement) that align with core therapeutic targets for alopecia. This study aimed to systematically investigate the efficacy and mechanisms of PA extracts in promoting hair regeneration. A strategy combining network pharmacology prediction and in vivo experiments was adopted. The efficacy of a Periplaneta americana extract was validated by evaluating hair regrowth status and skin pathological staining in C57BL/6J mice. Transcriptomics, metabolomics, RT-qPCR, and 16s rRNA techniques were integrated to dissect the underlying mechanisms of its hair-growth-promoting effects. PA-011 significantly promoted hair regeneration in depilated mice via multiple mechanisms: enhanced skin superoxide dismutase activity and upregulated vascular endothelial growth factor expression; modulated FOXO/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and restored skin microbiota homeostasis; and accelerated transition of hair follicles from the telogen to anagen phase. PA-011 exerts hair-promoting effects through synergistic modulation of FOXO/PI3K/AKT signaling and the skin microbiome. As a novel therapeutic candidate, it warrants further systematic investigation for clinical translation. Full article

Background: The aim of this review is to summarize and evaluate the properties of antibacterial polysaccharides for application in dental implantology to identify knowledge gaps and provide new research ideas. Methods: The electronic databases PubMed, Medline, ProQuest, and Google Scholar were used to search for peer-reviewed scientific publications published between 2018 and 2025 that provide insights to answer research questions on the role of antibacterial polysaccharides in combating pathogens in dental implantology without triggering immune reactions and inflammation. Further research questions relate to the efficacy against various dental pathogens and the understanding of the antibacterial mechanism, which may enable the development of functionalized polysaccharides with long-term antibacterial activity. Results: Biomedical implants have revolutionized medicine but also increased the risk of infections. Implant infections are a major problem in implantology and lead to implant failure and replacement. An antibacterial coating could be an excellent strategy to extend the lifespan of implants and improve the quality of the patient’s life. Bacterial resistance to antibiotics poses significant challenges for researchers, forcing them to search for new ways to prevent bacterial infections in implantology. Antibacterial natural polymers have recently received considerable research attention due to their long-term antibacterial activity. Polysaccharides from marine sources, such as chitosan and alginate, or pectin, xanthan, etc., from various plants, appear to be promising biopolymers for such applications in implantology due to their antibacterial activity, biocompatibility, and osteogenic properties. The antibacterial activity of these natural biopolymers depends on their chemical and physical properties. Nanopolysaccharides exhibit higher antibacterial activity than conventional polysaccharides, but their toxicity to human cells must be considered. Their antibacterial activity is based on the disruption of bacterial DNA or RNA synthesis, increased cell wall permeability, membrane disruption, and cytoplasmic leakage. Conclusions: Polysaccharides are a class of natural polymers with a broad spectrum of biological activities. They exhibit antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anticoagulant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral activity. Furthermore, polysaccharides are non-cytotoxic and exhibit good biocompatibility with osteogenic cells. Bactericidal polysaccharides are attractive new antibacterial materials against implant infections and open up new perspectives in implantology. Full article

Understanding the components of the diet, food groups, and nutritional strategies that help prevent MASLD (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease) is essential for identifying dietary behaviors that can stop the progression of this condition, which currently affects over one-quarter of the global population. This review highlights the importance of including antioxidant nutrients in the diet, such as vitamins C and E, CoQ10, and polyphenolic compounds. It also emphasizes substances that support lipid metabolism, including choline, alpha-lipoic acid, and berberine. Among food groups, it is crucial to choose those that help prevent metabolic disturbances. Among carbohydrate-rich foods, vegetables, fruits, and high-fiber products are recommended. For protein sources, eggs, fish, and white meat are preferred. Among fat sources, plant oils and fatty fish are advised due to their content of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Various dietary strategies aimed at preventing MASLD should include elements of the Mediterranean diet or be personalized to provide anti-inflammatory compounds and substances that inhibit fat accumulation in liver cells. Other recommended dietary models include the DASH diet, the flexitarian diet, intermittent fasting, and diets that limit fructose and simple sugars. Additionally, supplementing the diet with spirulina or chlorella, berberine, probiotics, or omega-3 fatty acids, as well as drinking several cups of coffee per day, may be beneficial. Full article

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a progressive, multifactorial complication of diabetes and one of the major global causes of visual impairment. Its pathogenesis involves chronic hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, neurodegeneration, and pathological angiogenesis, as well as emerging systemic contributors such as gut microbiota dysregulation. While current treatments, including anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents, corticosteroids, and laser photocoagulation, have shown clinical efficacy, they are largely limited to advanced stages of DR, require repeated invasive procedures, and do not adequately address early neurovascular and metabolic abnormalities. Resveratrol (RSV), a naturally occurring polyphenol, has emerged as a promising candidate due to its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-angiogenic properties. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the molecular mechanisms by which RSV exerts protective effects in DR, including modulation of oxidative stress pathways, suppression of inflammatory cytokines, enhancement of mitochondrial function, promotion of autophagy, and inhibition of pathological neovascularisation. Despite its promising pharmacological profile, the clinical application of RSV is limited by poor aqueous solubility, rapid systemic metabolism, and low ocular bioavailability. Various routes of administration, including intravitreal injection, topical instillation, and oral and sublingual delivery, have been investigated to enhance its therapeutic potential. Recent advances in drug delivery systems, including nanoformulations, liposomal carriers, and sustained-release intravitreal implants, offer potential strategies to address these challenges. This review also explores RSV’s role in combination therapies, its potential as a disease-modifying agent in early-stage DR, and the relevance of personalised medicine approaches guided by metabolic and genetic factors. Overall, the review highlights the therapeutic potential and the key translational challenges in positioning RSV as a multi-targeted treatment strategy for DR. Full article

Bisphenol A (BPA), a prevalent endocrine-disrupting chemical, is widely found in various consumer products and poses significant health risks, particularly through hormone receptor interactions, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. BPA exposure is associated with reproductive, metabolic, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Melatonin, a neurohormone with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has emerged as a potential therapeutic agent to counteract the toxic effects of BPA. This review consolidates recent findings from in vitro and animal/preclinical studies, highlighting melatonin’s protective mechanisms against BPA-induced toxicity. These include its capacity to reduce oxidative stress, restore mitochondrial function, modulate inflammatory responses, and protect against DNA damage. In animal models, melatonin also mitigates reproductive toxicity, enhances fertility parameters, and reduces histopathological damage. Melatonin’s ability to regulate endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and cell death pathways underscores its multifaceted protective role. Despite promising preclinical results, human clinical trials are needed to validate these findings and establish optimal dosages, treatment durations, and safety profiles. This review discusses the wide range of potential uses of melatonin for treating BPA toxicity and suggests directions for future research. Full article