Search Results (8,066)

Coffee cherry pulp (CCP), a coffee by-product rich in pectin and phenolic compounds, serves as a valuable substrate for microbial enzyme production, improving the nutritional and antioxidant properties of poultry feed. This study evaluated the potential of Kluyveromyces marxianus ST5 to produce pectin-degrading enzymes using CCP. Under unoptimized conditions, the pectin lyase (PL) and polygalacturonase (PG) activities were 3.29 ± 0.22 and 6.32 ± 0.13 U/mL, respectively. Optimization using a central composite design (CCD) identified optimal conditions at 16.81% (w/v) CCP, 5.87% (v/v) inoculum size, pH 5.24, and 30 °C for 48 h, resulting in PL and PG activities of 9.17 ± 0.20 and 15.78 ± 0.14 U/mL, representing increases of 178.7% and 149.7% over unoptimized conditions. Fermented CCP was further evaluated using an in vitro chicken gastrointestinal digestion model. Peptide release increased by 66.2% compared with unfermented CCP. Antioxidant capacity also improved, with significant increases observed in DPPH (32.4%), ABTS (45.0%), and FRAP (42.3%) assays, along with an 11.1% increase in total phenolic content. These results demonstrate that CCP bioconversion by K. marxianus ST5 enhances digestibility and antioxidant properties, supporting its potential as a sustainable poultry feed additive and contributing to the valorization of agro-industrial waste. Full article

Salinity is a major abiotic stress limiting black gram (Vigna mungo) productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Saline soils negatively impact plant growth, nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and yield. This study evaluated the efficacy of co-inoculating salt-tolerant plant growth-promoting bacteria Paenibacillus sp. SPR11 and Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense PR3 on black gram performance under saline field conditions (EC: 8.87 dS m⁻¹; pH: 8.37) with low organic carbon (0.6%) and nutrient deficiencies. In vitro assays demonstrated the biocontrol potential of SPR11, inhibiting Fusarium oxysporum and Macrophomina phaseolina by 76% and 62%, respectively. Germination assays and net house experiments under 300 mM NaCl stress showed that co-inoculation significantly improved physiological traits, including germination rate, root length (61.39%), shoot biomass (59.95%), and nitrogen fixation (52.4%) in nitrogen-free media. Field trials further revealed enhanced stress tolerance markers: chlorophyll content increased by 54.74%, proline by 50.89%, and antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, PAL) were significantly upregulated. Electrolyte leakage was reduced by 55.77%, indicating improved membrane stability. Agronomic performance also improved, with co-inoculated plants showing increased root length (7.19%), grain yield (15.55 q ha⁻¹; 77.04% over control), total biomass (26.73 q ha⁻¹; 57.06%), and straw yield (8.18 q ha⁻¹). Pod number, seed count, and seed weight were also enhanced. Nutrient analysis showed elevated uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and key micronutrients (Zn, Fe) in both grain and straw. To the best of our knowledge, this is the very first field-based report demonstrating the synergistic benefits of co-inoculating Paenibacillus sp. SPR11 and Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense PR3 in black gram under saline, nutrient-poor conditions without external nitrogen inputs. The results highlight a sustainable strategy to enhance legume productivity and resilience in salt-affected soils. Full article

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of puffed jujube powder (PJP) supplementation in the diet on the slaughter characteristics, growth performance, meat quality, and serum antioxidant capacity of Hainan Black (HB) goats. Twenty-four healthy male HB goats, three months old with an initial body weight of 15.12 ± 3.67 kg, were randomly divided into three groups: the 10% PJP group (basal diet plus 10% PJP); the 20% PJP group (basal diet plus 20% PJP); and the control group (basal diet only). After a 10-day adaptation period, a feeding trial was carried out for 90 days in an ad libitum diet environment. The results show that the final body weight of the 20% PJP group was markedly higher (p < 0.05) than that of the control group (22.58 ± 0.94 kg vs. 20.45 ± 1.01 kg). The average daily gain of the 20% PJP group was 83.44 ± 1.78 g/d, which was substantially greater (p < 0.05) than the 59.22 ± 2.13 g/d of the control group. The feed intake of the 20% PJP group was 713.10 ± 4.54 g/d, notably higher (p < 0.05) than the 498.20 ± 4.33 g/d of the control group. In terms of slaughter characteristics, the carcass weight of the 20% PJP group was 13.99 ± 1.22 kg, considerably heavier (p < 0.05) than the 11.79 ± 1.38 kg of the control group. The muscle weight of the 20% PJP group was 11.43 ± 1.42 kg, distinctly greater (p < 0.05) than the 9.59 ± 1.99 kg of the control group. The slaughter rate of the 20% PJP group was 42.41%, showing a notable increase (p < 0.05) compared with the 37.42% of the control group, and the net meat rate of the 20% PJP group was 34.65%, with a significant rise (p < 0.05) compared with the 30.43% of the control group. Regarding serum antioxidant capacity and meat quality, the activities of serum antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), were conspicuously increased (p < 0.05) in the 20% PJP group. The meat shear force of the 20% PJP group was decreased by 12.9%, and the cooking loss was improved by 8.9% in comparison with the control group. In conclusion, the supplementation of 20% PJP in the diet was demonstrated to enhance the growth performance, improve the meat quality, and boost the antioxidant status of HB goats, thus presenting a feasible strategy for optimizing tropical goat production systems. Full article

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), a widely utilised brominated flame retardant, demonstrates toxicological effects in aquatic organisms. Tea polyphenols (TPs), natural compounds found in tea leaves, exhibit both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The kidney is one of the major metabolic organs in common carp and serves as a target organ for toxic substances. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of TPs in mitigating TBBPA-induced nephrotoxicity in common carp. Common carp were exposed to 0.5 mg/L TBBPA in water and/or fed a diet supplemented with 1 g/kg TPs for 14 days. In vitro, primary renal cells were treated with 60 μM TBBPA and/or 2.5 μg/L TPs for 24 h. Methods included histopathology, TUNEL assay for apoptosis, ROS detection, and molecular analyses. Antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) were quantified using ELISA kits. Results showed that TBBPA induced oxidative stress, and activated the ROS-PI3K/AKT-NF-κB pathway, thereby resulting in inflammatory responses. TBBPA upregulated apoptosis-related genes (Caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2) and induced apoptosis. TBBPA upregulated the expression of RIPK3/MLKL, thereby exacerbating necroptosis. TPs intervention significantly mitigated these effects by reducing ROS, suppressing NF-κB activation, and restoring antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT). Moreover, TPs attenuated apoptosis and necrosis in the carp kidney, thereby enhancing the survival ability and immunity of common carp. Full article

Background/Objectives: Vitex agnus-castus has been traditionally used to treat hormonal disorders, and recent evidence suggests its potential anticancer properties. However, its effects on gastric cancer remain unclear. Methods: This study examined the cytotoxic, apoptotic, and anti-metastatic effects of hydroalcoholic Vitex agnus-castus seed extract in gastric cancer cells. Antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS) and total phenolic and flavonoid contents were analyzed. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay in HGC27, MKN45, and AGS gastric cancer cell lines and CCD-1072Sk fibroblasts. Apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and cell cycle changes were evaluated via Annexin V-FITC/PI, Rhodamine 123, and PI staining, respectively. RT-qPCR and gene enrichment analyses were conducted to investigate the molecular mechanisms. Apoptosis-related protein expression was analyzed through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The extract exhibited high antioxidant activity and a significant phenolic content. It reduced cell viability in a dose-dependent manner in gastric cancer cells, while exerting low toxicity in fibroblasts. It significantly increased apoptosis, induced G0/G1-phase cell cycle arrest, upregulated pro-apoptotic genes (CASP3, CASP7, TP53, BCL2L11), and downregulated anti-apoptotic genes (XIAP, NOL3). Gene enrichment analysis highlighted pathways like apoptosis, necrosis, and cysteine endopeptidase activity. The extract also disrupted MMP, inhibited migration and spheroid formation, suppressed EMT markers (SNAIL, SLUG, TWIST1, N-CADHERIN), and upregulated E-CADHERIN. The expression of Caspase 3 and Bax proteins increased and Bcl2 protein decreased. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Vitex agnus-castus seed extract exerts strong anticancer effects in gastric cancer cells by promoting apoptosis, reducing proliferation, and inhibiting migration. Further studies are warranted to explore its clinical relevance. Full article

Plastic pollution in marine environments poses a new global threat. Microplastics (MPs) can bioaccumulate in marine organisms, leading to oxidative stress (OS). This study investigates MP accumulation and associated OS responses in six invertebrate species (Bivalvia, Gastropoda, and Malacostraca) and three key fish species of the Bulgarian Black Sea ecosystems. The target hydrobionts were collected from nine representative coastal habitats of the northern and southern aquatory. MPs were quantified microscopically, and OS biomarkers (lipid peroxidation, glutathione, and antioxidant enzymes) were analyzed spectrometrically in fish liver and gills and invertebrate soft tissues (STs). The specific OS (SOS) index was calculated as a composite indicator of the ecological impact, incl. MP effects. The results revealed species-specific MP bioaccumulation, with the highest concentrations in Palaemon adspersus, Rathke (1837) (0.99 ± 1.09 particles/g ST) and the least abundance in Bittium reticulatum (da Costa, 1778) (0.0033 ± 0.0025 particles/g ST). In Sprattus sprattus (Linnaeus, 1758), the highest accumulation of MPs was present (2.01 ± 2.56 particles/g muscle). The correlation analyses demonstrated a significant association between MP counts and catalase activity in all examined species. The SOS index varied among species, reflecting different stress responses, and this indicated that OS levels were linked to ecological conditions of the habitat and the species-specific antioxidant defense potential to overcome multiple stressors. These findings confirmed the importance of environmental conditions, including MP pollution and the evolutionarily developed capacity of marine organisms to tolerate and adapt to environmental stress. This study emphasizes the need for novel approaches in monitoring MPs and OS to better assess potential ecological risks. Full article

Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is a key factor in the overproduction of melanin in the skin. Melanocytes produce melanin through melanogenesis to protect the skin from UVB radiation-induced damage. However, excessive melanogenesis can lead to hyperpigmentation and increase the risk of malignant melanoma. Tyrosinase is the rate-limiting enzyme in melanogenesis; it catalyzes the oxidation of tyrosine to 3,4-dihydroxy-L-phenylalanine and subsequently to dopaquinone. Thus, inhibiting tyrosinase is a promising strategy for preventing melanogenesis and skin hyperpigmentation. White mulberry (Morus alba L.) is rich in antioxidants, and mulberry fruit extracts have been used as cosmetic skin-lightening agents. However, data on the capacity of mulberry fruit extracts to inhibit tyrosinase under UVB radiation-induced melanogenic conditions remain scarce, especially in an in vivo model. In this study, we evaluated the effects of a mulberry crude extract (MCE) on UVB radiation-induced melanogenesis in B16F10 melanoma cells and zebrafish embryos. The MCE significantly reduced tyrosinase activity and melanogenesis in a dose-dependent manner without inducing cytotoxicity. These effects are likely attributable to the antioxidant constituents of the extract. Our findings highlight the potential of this MCE as an effective tyrosinase inhibitor for the prevention of UVB radiation-induced skin hyperpigmentation. Full article

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element critical for animal growth and immune function. This study investigated the dietary selenium requirement of juvenile large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) through an 8-week feeding trial. Five experimental diets were formulated by supplementing a basal diet with selenium polysaccharides (Se-PS) at 0, 20, 30, 40, and 50 mg/kg, resulting in analyzed Se concentrations of 0.35, 0.54, 0.71, 0.93, and 1.11 mg/kg, respectively. The results demonstrated that growth performance and feed efficiency improved with increasing dietary selenium, peaking at 0.93 mg/kg before declining at higher levels. Antioxidant enzyme activities—superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)—in serum and liver tissues exhibited a dose-dependent increase, reaching maximal levels at 1.11 mg/kg. Conversely, malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of oxidative stress, progressively decreased in both serum and liver, attaining its lowest concentration at 1.11 mg/kg, though this did not differ significantly from the 0.93 mg/kg group (p = 0.056). Tissue selenium accumulation was highest at these optimal dietary levels. Based on the growth performance, oxidative stress response, and tissue selenium retention, the recommended dietary selenium requirement for juvenile large yellow croaker is 0.93 mg/kg. These findings highlight the importance of optimal Se supplementation in aquafeeds to enhance growth and physiological health in farmed fish. 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

Fresh fruit are highly perishable commodities, facing significant postharvest losses primarily due to physiological deterioration and microbial spoilage. Conventional preservation methods often face limitations regarding safety, residue, and environmental impact. Because of its rapid decomposition and low-residue-impact characteristics, ozone has proven superior as an efficient and eco-friendly solution for preserving fruit quality after harvest. The maturation and aging processes of kiwifruit are closely linked to the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the effects of intermittent ozone treatment (21.4 mg/m³, applied for 0, 1, 3, or 5 h weekly) on ROS metabolism, the antioxidant defense system, and storage quality of kiwifruit during cold storage (0.0 ± 0.5 °C). The results showed ozone treatment slowed the decline in titratable acid (TA) content and fruit firmness, inhibited increases in total soluble solids (TSSs) and weight loss, and maintained the storage quality. Additionally, ozone treatment enhanced the activities of antioxidant-related enzymes. This includes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). Furthermore, it delayed the reduction in ascorbate (ASA), glutathione (GSH), total phenolic compounds, and flavonoid content, while also preventing the accumulation of ROS and the rise in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. In summary, the results indicate that ozone treatment enhances the antioxidant capacity of kiwifruit by increasing the structural integrity of cell membranes, preserving the structural integrity of cell membranes, and effectively maintaining the storage quality of the fruit. Full article

Fungicides are compounds with potentially toxic effects on the human body, but the molecular mechanisms of their action have not yet been explained. The effect of cyprodinil on cell viability, apoptosis level, cell membrane function, cell morphology and expression of antioxidant enzyme genes in the A-375 and DLD-1 cell lines was examined. The cell lines were selected because they can be an excellent in vitro model of neoplastic changes occurring in the skin and large intestine after exposure to a fungicide. The fungicide selected for the study is commonly used in Poland to protect crops against fungi. Our results showed that the tested compound increased cell viability and proliferation, probably activated by mechanisms related to oxidative stress. Cyprodinil caused an increase in glutathione level (in A-375 by about 37% and in DLD-1 by about 28%) and oxidative stress enzymes activity, but not in apoptosis level. Its membrane interactions and its penetration into cells was concentration dependent. It is worth emphasizing that the novelty of our work lies in the use of non-traditional toxicological methods based on molecular analyses using human cell lines. This allowed us to demonstrate not only the toxicity of a single substance but also its behavior within cellular structures. Our findings suggest that cyprodinil may have tumor-promoting properties in skin and colorectal cancer cells. Full article

The growing demand for sustainable plant-based dairy alternatives has spurred interest in valorizing agro-industrial byproducts like hazelnut cake, a protein-rich byproduct of oil extraction. This study developed formulations for vegan ice cream using unfermented (HIC) and Aspergillus oryzae-fermented hazelnut cake (FHIC), comparing their physicochemical, functional, and sensory properties to conventional dairy ice cream (DIC). Solid-state fermentation (72 h, 30 °C) enhanced the cake’s bioactive properties, and ice creams were characterized for composition, texture, rheology, melting behavior, antioxidant activity, and enzyme inhibition pre- and post-in vitro digestion. The results indicate that FHIC had higher protein content (64.64% vs. 58.02% in HIC) and unique volatiles (e.g., benzaldehyde and 3-methyl-1-butanol). While DIC exhibited superior overrun (15.39% vs. 4.01–7.00% in vegan samples) and slower melting, FHIC demonstrated significantly higher post-digestion antioxidant activity (4.73 μmol TE/g DPPH vs. 1.44 in DIC) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition (4.85–7.42%). Sensory evaluation ranked DIC highest for overall acceptability, with FHIC perceived as polarizing due to pronounced flavors. Despite textural challenges, HIC and FHIC offered nutritional advantages, including 18–30% lower calories and enhanced bioactive compounds. This study highlights fermentation as a viable strategy to upcycle hazelnut byproducts into functional vegan ice creams, although the optimization of texture and flavor is needed for broader consumer acceptance. Full article

Background/Objectives: Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (lotus) seeds have traditionally been used to treat hypertension, though their mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the antihypertensive effects of lotus seed extract (LSE) and its mechanisms in rats with N^ω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertension. Methods: Male Sprague Dawley rats received L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day) in drinking water and were treated orally with LSE (5, 10, or 100 mg/kg/day), captopril (5 mg/kg/day), or a combination of LSE and captopril (2.5 mg/kg/day each) for 5 weeks. Hemodynamic parameters and histological changes in the left ventricle and aorta were assessed. Mechanistic studies included measurements of plasma nitric oxide (NO) metabolites, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, angiotensin II (Ang II), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity, and protein expression via western blot. Results: L-NAME elevated systolic blood pressure and induced cardiovascular remodeling, oxidative stress, and renin-angiotensin system activation. LSE treatment reduced blood pressure, improved antioxidant status, increased NO bioavailability, and downregulated gp91^phox and AT₁R expression. The combination of low-dose LSE and captopril produced stronger effects than LSE alone, with efficacy comparable to captopril. Conclusions: These findings suggest that LSE exerts antihypertensive effects via antioxidant activity and inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system, supporting its potential as an adjunct therapy for hypertension. Full article

Flavonoids serve as crucial plant antioxidants in drought tolerance, yet their antioxidant regulatory mechanisms within mycorrhizal plants remain unclear. In this study, using a two-factor design, trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.) seedlings in the four-to-five-leaf stage were either inoculated with Funneliformis mosseae or not, and subjected to well-watered (70–75% of field maximum water-holding capacity) or drought stress (50–55% field maximum water-holding capacity) conditions for 10 weeks. Plant growth performance, photosynthetic physiology, leaf flavonoid content and their antioxidant capacity, reactive oxygen species levels, and activities and gene expression of key flavonoid biosynthesis enzymes were analyzed. Although drought stress significantly reduced root colonization and soil hyphal length, inoculation with F. mosseae consistently enhanced the biomass of leaves, stems, and roots, as well as root surface area and diameter, irrespective of soil moisture. Despite drought suppressing photosynthesis in mycorrhizal plants, F. mosseae substantially improved photosynthetic capacity (measured via gas exchange) and optimized photochemical efficiency (assessed by chlorophyll fluorescence) while reducing non-photochemical quenching (heat dissipation). Inoculation with F. mosseae elevated the total flavonoid content in leaves by 46.67% (well-watered) and 14.04% (drought), accompanied by significantly enhanced activities of key synthases such as phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), chalcone synthase (CHS), chalcone isomerase (CHI), 4-coumarate:coA ligase (4CL), and cinnamate 4-hydroxylase (C4H), with increases ranging from 16.90 to 117.42% under drought. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that both mycorrhization and drought upregulated the expression of PtPAL1, PtCHI, and Pt4CL genes, with soil moisture critically modulating mycorrhizal regulatory effects. In vitro assays showed that flavonoid extracts scavenged radicals at rates of 30.07–41.60% in hydroxyl radical (•OH), 71.89–78.06% in superoxide radical anion (O₂^•−), and 49.97–74.75% in 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Mycorrhizal symbiosis enhanced the antioxidant capacity of flavonoids, resulting in higher scavenging rates of •OH (19.07%), O₂^•− (5.00%), and DPPH (31.81%) under drought. Inoculated plants displayed reduced hydrogen peroxide (19.77%), O₂^•− (23.90%), and malondialdehyde (17.36%) levels. This study concludes that mycorrhizae promote the level of total flavonoids in trifoliate orange by accelerating the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, hence reducing oxidative damage under drought. Full article