Search Results (36,440)

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) begins with hepatic lipid accumulation and triggers insulin resistance. Hibiscus leaf extract exhibits antioxidant and anti-atherosclerotic activities, and is rich in (−)-epicatechin gallate (ECG). Despite ECG’s well-known pharmacological activities and its total antioxidant capacity being stronger than that of other catechins, its regulatory effects on MASLD have not been fully described previously. Therefore, this study attempted to evaluate the anti-MASLD potential of ECG isolated from Hibiscus leaves on abnormal lipid and glucose metabolism in hepatocytes. First, oleic acid (OA) was used as an experimental model to induce lipid dysmetabolism in human primary hepatocytes. Treatment with ECG can significantly (p < 0.05) reduce the OA-induced cellular lipid accumulation. Nile red staining revealed, compared to the OA group, the inhibition percentages of 29, 61, and 82% at the tested doses of ECG, respectively. The beneficial effects of ECG were associated with the downregulation of SREBPs/HMGCR and upregulation of PPARα/CPT1 through targeting AMPK. Also, ECG at 0.4 µM produced a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in oxidative stress by 83%, and a marked (p < 0.05) increase in glycogen synthesis by 145% on the OA-exposed hepatocytes with insulin signaling blockade. Mechanistic assays indicated lipid and glucose metabolic homeostasis of ECG might be mediated via regulation of lipogenesis, fatty acid β-oxidation, and insulin resistance, as confirmed by an AMPK inhibitor. These results suggest ECG is a dual modulator of lipid and carbohydrate dysmetabolism in hepatocytes. Full article

Coffee silverskin (CS), a by-product generated during coffee roasting, contains high levels of xylan hemicellulose and protein, making it a promising substrate for functional ingredient production. This study developed an integrated bioprocess to simultaneously produce bioactive peptides and xylooligosaccharides (CS-XOS) from CS. Conventional alkaline extraction (CAE) under optimized conditions (1.0 M NaOH, 90 °C, 30 min) yielded 80.64 mg of protein per gram of CS and rendered the solid residue suitable for XOS production. Enzymatic hydrolysis of the extracted protein using protease_SE5 generated low-molecular-weight peptides (0.302 ± 0.01 mg/mL), including FLGY, FYDTYY, and FDYGKY. These peptides were non-toxic, exhibited in vitro antioxidant activity (0–50%), and showed ACE-inhibitory activities of 60%, 26%, and 79%, and DPP-IV-inhibitory activities of 19%, 18%, and 0%, respectively. Concurrently, the alkaline-treated CS solid residue (ACSS) was hydrolyzed using recombinant endo-xylanase, yielding 52.5 ± 0.08 mg of CS-XOS per gram of ACSS. The CS-XOS exhibited prebiotic effects by enhancing the growth of probiotic lactic acid bacteria (μ_max 0.100–0.122 h⁻¹), comparable to commercial XOS. This integrated bioprocess eliminates the need for separate processing lines, enhances resource efficiency, and provides a sustainable strategy for valorizing agro-industrial waste. The co-produced peptides and CS-XOS offer significant potential as functional food ingredients and nutraceuticals. Full article

This study evaluated the effects of different storage conditions, varying in light exposure, relative humidity (RH), and packaging materials, on the physicochemical stability of Lobosphaera sp. biomass, the retention of bioactive compounds, and the bioactivity of its extracts. Under light and 75% RH, the biomass absorbed moisture over time, reaching 0.779 ± 0.003 g/g dry weight (DW) after three months. This was accompanied by a decline in luminosity, chroma, and hue values. In contrast, samples stored under other conditions showed minimal changes, indicating that high humidity, combined with light exposure, compromises biomass stability. Packaging in metalized polyethylene terephthalate (PETmet/PE) effectively preserved the water content, color, and carotenoid levels during a two-month storage period. Bioactive compounds extracted via hydroethanolic ultrasound-assisted extraction yielded 15.48 ± 1.35% DW. Total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts declined over time in both PETmet/PE and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) packaging, though the decrease was less pronounced in PETmet/PE. Antioxidant activity, assessed via the ABTS assay, remained stable, regardless of storage duration or packaging. Antimicrobial activity of the extract decreased over time but remained more effective against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Listeria monocytogenes), with PETmet/PE packaging better preserving antimicrobial efficacy than LDPE. These findings underscore the importance of optimized storage conditions and packaging for maintaining the quality and bioactivity of Lobosphaera sp. biomass and its extracts. Full article

Oxidative stress significantly contributes to the exacerbation of brain damage during cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIR/I). In our previous study, purified cornel iridoid glycoside (PCIG), consisting of morroniside (MOR) and loganin (LOG), showed neuroprotective effects against CIR/I. To further explore the antioxidative effects and underlying molecular mechanisms, we applied PCIG, MOR, and LOG to rats injured by middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) as well as H₂O₂-stimulated PC12 cells. Additionally, the molecular docking analysis was performed to assess the interaction between the PCIG constituents and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). The results showed that the treated rats experienced fewer neurological deficits, reduced lesion volumes, and lower cell death accompanied by decreased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl, as well as increased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). In H₂O₂-stimulated PC12 cells, the treatments decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitigated mitochondrial dysfunction, and inhibited mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis. Moreover, the treatments facilitated Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) translocation into the nucleus and selectively increased the expression of NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) through MOR and LOG, respectively. Both MOR and LOG demonstrated strong binding affinity to Keap1. These findings suggested that PCIG, rather than any individual components, might serve as a valuable treatment for ischemic stroke by activating the Nrf2/NQO-1 and Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Full article

The present study evaluated the effect of adding 0% (control), 30%, 40% and 50% SPMs (small-peptide chelating trace minerals) to replace ITMs (inorganic trace minerals) in the diets of Litopenaeus vannamei; 720 shrimp were randomly assigned to four treatments (six replicates per group, 30 shrimp per replicate) in a 42-day feeding trial. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) among the control, 40% SPM and 50% SPM groups in terms of the survival rate, weight gain rate, specific growth rate, hepatosomatic index, condition factor, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, or protein efficiency ratio; however, protein efficiency ratio was reduced in the 30% SPM group (p < 0.05). Glucose, triglyceride, and aspartate aminotransferase levels in the hemolymph of the 30% SPM group were significantly increased (p < 0.05), while the glucose and aspartate aminotransferase levels were also significantly increased in the 40% SPM group (p < 0.05). In the 50% SPM group, the glucose and triglyceride levels were also significantly increased (p < 0.05). Hepatopancreatic alkaline phosphatase activity was elevated at 40% SPM, and alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, glutathione peroxidase, and total antioxidant capacity activities were significantly increased in the 50% SPM group (p < 0.05). The moisture content and drip loss were reduced in both the 40% and 50% SPM groups (p < 0.05). Therefore, replacing 40–50% ITMs with SPMs can maintain growth performance while enhancing physiological functions. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate that the incorporation of 30–50% SPMs into one’s diet constitutes a viable alternative to 100% ITMs. 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

Grafting serves as a crucial propagation technique for superior Camellia oleifera varieties, where rootstock–scion compatibility significantly determines survival and growth performance. To systematically evaluate grafting compatibility in this economically important woody oil crop, we examined 15 rootstock–scion combinations using ‘Xianglin 210’ as the scion, assessing growth traits and conducting physiological assays (enzymatic activities of SOD and POD and levels of ROS and IAA) at multiple timepoints (0–32 days post-grafting). The results demonstrated that Comb. 4 (Xianglin 27 rootstock) exhibited superior compatibility, characterized by systemic antioxidant activation (peaking at 4–8 DPG), rapid auxin accumulation (4 DPG), and efficient sugar allocation. Transcriptome sequencing and WGCNA analysis identified 3781 differentially expressed genes, with notable enrichment in stress response pathways (Hsp70, DnaJ) and auxin biosynthesis (YUCCA), while also revealing key hub genes (FKBP19) associated with graft-healing efficiency. These findings establish that successful grafting in C. oleifera depends on coordinated rapid redox regulation, auxin-mediated cell proliferation, and metabolic reprogramming, with Comb. 4 emerging as the optimal rootstock choice. The identified molecular markers not only advance our understanding of grafting mechanisms in woody plants but also provide valuable targets for future breeding programs aimed at improving grafting success rates in this important oil crop. 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

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

In response to the growing demand for clean-label preservatives, this study investigates the potential of Laetiporus sulphureus, an edible polypore mushroom, as a multifunctional additive in cooked sausages. The ethanolic extract of L. sulphureus (LsEtOH) was evaluated for its chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and antimicrobial activity. Leucine (12.4 ± 0.31 mg/g d.w.) and linoleic acid (68.6%) were identified as the dominant essential amino acid and fatty acid. LsEtOH exhibited strong antioxidant activity, with IC₅₀ values of 215 ± 0.05 µg/mL (DPPH•), 182 ± 0.40 µg/mL (NO•), and 11.4 ± 0.01 µg/mL (OH•), and showed a selective inhibition of Gram-positive bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus (MIC/MBC: 0.31/0.62 mg/mL). In cooked sausages treated with 0.05 mg/kg of LsEtOH, lipid peroxidation was reduced (TBARS: 0.26 mg MDA/kg compared to 0.36 mg MDA/kg in the control), microbial growth was suppressed (33.3 ± 15.2 CFU/g in the treated sample compared to 43.3 ± 5.7 CFU/g in the control group), and color and pH were stabilized over 30 days. A sensory evaluation revealed minor flavor deviations due to the extract’s inherent aroma. Encapsulation and consumer education are recommended to enhance acceptance. This is the first study to demonstrate the efficacy of L. sulphureus extract as a natural preservative in a meat matrix, supporting its application as a clean-label additive for shelf life and safety improvement. Full article

Corn is one of the most consumed cereals in the Mexican diet. In this country, there are multiple varieties that exhibit nutraceutical potential due to their content of different metabolites with biological activity, such as blue corn. Another variety that has received little study is the red pigmented corn variety Chilac from Puebla, Mexico, which is being studied for its nutraceutical potential. A differential extraction using the Soxhlet method was carried out to evaluate the phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and monomeric anthocyanins, and free radical scavenging test was performed using the DPPH reagent. A proximate analysis was also conducted to identify the main macronutrients. The results of the proximate analysis were comparable to those of other traditional corn varieties, with carbohydrates being the macronutrient present in the highest amount at 77.9%. Regarding phenolic content and the presence of anthocyanins, the best extractions were obtained using alcoholic solvents; for example, ethanol for phenols, yielding 1368.420 ± 104.094 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/kg plant. In contrast, the flavonoid content was higher in the aqueous extract, with 833.984 ± 65.218 mg QE/Kg. In the case of the DPPH assay, the best result was obtained with ethyl acetate (73.81 ± 5.31%). These findings provide a foundation for expanding the use of corn varieties with nutraceutical potential, opening the possibility of studies focused on deeper characterization. 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

In this study, the effects of water bath and ultrasonic bath systems on bioactive properties, phenolic components and fatty acid profiles of unroasted and roasted pumpkin seeds were investigated. It is thought that determining the bioactive components, phenolic constituents and fatty acid profiles of unroasted and roasted pumpkin seeds will lead to the establishment of usage norms according to their composition characteristics. Total phenolic quantities of the pumpkin seed extracts obtained by water bath extraction of the seeds were defined to be between 7.58 (control) and 11.55 (25 min) and 10.20 (control) and 17.18 mg GAE/100 g (50 min), respectively. Phenolic content increased by 50% after 50 min of ultrasonic extraction, indicating the efficiency of this method. Also, total flavonoid amounts increased about 55% after 25 min of ultrasonic extraction, indicating the efficiency of this method. It was observed that the catechin contents of unroasted pumpkin seeds obtained in water and ultrasonic baths decreased significantly at the 50th minute of extraction compared to the control. The antioxidant activity values (DPPH) of roasted pumpkin seeds treated in water- and ultrasonic bath systems increased by approximately 10% compared to the control at 50 min of sonication in both systems, respectively. Also, the 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid amounts of the extracts obtained by both extraction systems of roasted pumpkin seeds were determined between 9.85 (50 min) and 17.22 mg/100 g (control) and 11.17 (25 min) and 13.74 mg/100 g (50 min), respectively. The linoleic acid amounts of unroasted pumpkin seed oils extracted in water- and ultrasonic baths varied between 52.34 (50 min) and 53.33% (control) to 52.90 (50 min) and 53.04% (control), respectively. The linoleic acid values of the roasted pumpkin seed oils were established to be between 52.30 (50 min) and 52.84 (25 min) and 52.32 (50 min) and 53.46% (25 min), respectively. In general, the phenolic compound amounts of roasted pumpkin seeds were higher than those of unroasted ones. The fatty acid amounts of pumpkin seed oils extracted with an ultrasonic bath were generally slightly higher than those extracted with a water bath. In future studies, changes in the phytochemical and bioactive properties of pumpkin seed oils obtained by applying different roasting techniques and extraction methods will be investigated. Full article

The Amazon region is home to a remarkable diversity of plant species that are used in traditional medicine and cuisine. This study aimed to evaluate the functional, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of the leaves of Allium schoenoprasum, Brugmansia candida (white and pink), and Cyclanthemum bipartitum. Bioactive compounds (L-ascorbic acid, organic acids, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and chlorophylls) were quantified using liquid chromatography. The ABTS and DPPH methods were used to assess the antioxidant capacity. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans, and Candida tropicalis was evaluated. The results revealed a high content of L-ascorbic acid (7.6 mg/100 g dry weight) and total carotenoids (509.0 mg/100 g dry weight), as well as high antioxidant capacity (4.5 mmol TE/100 g dry weight) and broad antimicrobial activity in Brugmansia candida ‘pink’. The White variety had the highest concentration of total chlorophylls (1742.8 mg/100 g DW), Cyclanthemum bipartitum had the highest total organic acid content (2814.5 mg/100 g DW), and Allium schoenoprasum had the highest concentration of total phenolic compounds (11,351.6 mg/100 g DW). These results constitute a starting point for future research, emphasizing the potential health risks that certain species may pose. Full article