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Search Results (31,919)

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Keywords = antioxidative effect

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33 pages, 1826 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Evaluation of Probiotic Effects on Laying Hen Physiology: From Performance to Bone and Gut Morphology
by E. Ebru Onbaşılar, Sakine Yalçın, Caner Bakıcı, Barış Batur, Yeliz Kaya Kartal, Ozan Ahlat, İhsan Berat Kılıçlı and Suzan Yalçın
Animals 2025, 15(16), 2408; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15162408 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of probiotic supplementation on performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, gut morphology, fecal microbiota, and bone morphology in Lohmann Brown laying hens aged 44 weeks over a 16-week period. Ninety-six hens were randomly divided into control and probiotic groups [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of probiotic supplementation on performance, egg quality, antioxidant capacity, gut morphology, fecal microbiota, and bone morphology in Lohmann Brown laying hens aged 44 weeks over a 16-week period. Ninety-six hens were randomly divided into control and probiotic groups (n = 48 each). The probiotic group received probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus acidophilus KUEN 1607 and Pediococcus acidilactici KUEN 1608 via drinking water at 0.5%. Probiotic supplementation significantly improved feed conversion ratio (FCR), eggshell strength and thickness, and albumen quality (p < 0.001) and reduced the incidence of cracked and shell-less eggs (p < 0.05). Yolk and serum cholesterol levels decreased (p < 0.001), and antioxidant parameters improved, along with elevated serum IgG (p < 0.001). Histological analysis showed an increased ratio of villus height to crypt depth (p < 0.001) in the jejunum, indicating enhanced intestinal health. Fecal samples revealed increased Lactobacillus spp. and reduced coliform counts (p < 0.001), suggesting improved gut microbiota balance. While bone volume and surface area showed no significant difference, 3D geometric morphometric analysis identified subtle shape changes in long bones, especially the femur and tibiotarsus. These findings demonstrate that the selected probiotic combination supports nutrient utilization, egg quality, gut integrity, immune status, and skeletal health, offering a sustainable strategy to enhance productivity and welfare in laying hens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Nutrition)
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24 pages, 2067 KiB  
Article
Effect of Wine Yeast (Saccharomyces sp.) Strains on the Physicochemical, Sensory, and Antioxidant Properties of Plum, Apple, and Hawthorn Wines
by František Lorenc, Markéta Jarošová, Jan Bedrníček, Vlastimil Nohejl, Eliška Míková and Pavel Smetana
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2844; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162844 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Fruit wines have become a popular alternative to grape wines for their variability of sensory properties and unique chemical profiles, offering interesting biological activities. Winemaking also utilizes fruits, which are usually sensitive to biological deterioration, thus reducing post-harvest losses. The quality of wines [...] Read more.
Fruit wines have become a popular alternative to grape wines for their variability of sensory properties and unique chemical profiles, offering interesting biological activities. Winemaking also utilizes fruits, which are usually sensitive to biological deterioration, thus reducing post-harvest losses. The quality of wines depends on the fermentation conditions, including the wine yeast selection. In this study, we observed the effect of three common Saccharomyces wine yeast strains on the physicochemical characteristics (color, pH, ethanol content), antioxidant potential (total polyphenol content—TPC, DPPH, and ABTS antioxidant assays), and sensory properties and their relations within plum, apple, and hawthorn wines. Generally, we observed quite-wide ranges in physicochemical properties (pH: 2.8–3.8, ethanol content: 9.0–16.2%) and antioxidant potential parameters (TPC: 0.5–2.4 mg/GAE, DPPH: 0.3–1.4 mg/AAE, 0.5–3.0 mg/AAE), which were affected by the fruit, yeast, and sampling term. The yeast strain significantly affected physicochemical properties and the antioxidant potential on a minor scale. The highest impact of yeast was observed within sensory analyses, where the hawthorn and apple wines fermented by yeast strain Fruit Red exhibited a different sensory profile than those fermented by the Buket and Special strains. A positive correlation between antioxidant potential parameters and their relationship with wine color was confirmed. Moreover, the overall acceptability grew with sweet taste intensity, and panelists preferred wines with lower ethanol content. In general, this study proved the significant impact of wine yeast strain selection on certain qualitative parameters of fruit wines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Winemaking: Innovative Technology and Sensory Analysis)
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18 pages, 38999 KiB  
Article
Curcumin-Mediated Photodynamic Treatment Enhances Storage Quality of Fresh Wolfberries via Antioxidant System Modulation
by Yan-Fei Shen, Wen-Ping Ma, Run-Hui Ma, Kiran Thakur, Zhi-Jing Ni, Wei Wang and Zhao-Jun Wei
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2843; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162843 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is an innovative non-thermal sterilization and preservation method that has recently emerged as a safe, effective, cost-effective and environmentally sustainable alternative for biomedical applications. Curcumin (Cur), a commonly used food additive, possesses photosensitizing properties. In this study, we investigated the [...] Read more.
Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is an innovative non-thermal sterilization and preservation method that has recently emerged as a safe, effective, cost-effective and environmentally sustainable alternative for biomedical applications. Curcumin (Cur), a commonly used food additive, possesses photosensitizing properties. In this study, we investigated the effect of curcumin-mediated photodynamic treatment (Cur-PDT) on the preservation of fresh wolfberries. Our experimental data revealed that a Cur-PDT treatment using a cur concentration of 500 μmol/L for 30 min, with 20 W irradiation, achieved the best preservation effect on fresh wolfberries. This intervention significantly slowed the decline in post-harvest hardness and delayed the progression of decay. It also reduced the accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide anion (•O2). Notably, at day 3, the enzymatic activities of catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in Cur-PDT-treated wolfberries were 1.12 and 1.88 times higher, respectively, than those in the control group. These elevated enzyme activities promoted the biosynthesis and recycling of ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH), leading to their substantial accumulation under oxidative stress conditions. By modulating the antioxidant defense system, Cur-PDT has the potential to extend the shelf-life of post-harvest wolfberries and enhance their overall quality attributes, thereby maintaining physiological homeostasis during storage. Full article
12 pages, 528 KiB  
Review
The Antioxidant Potential of Black Tea Polyphenols in Heavy Metal Toxicity: An In Vitro Perspective
by Ewa Wnuk
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 7926; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26167926 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Black tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, second only to water. Its properties are primarily due to the presence of polyphenols, which are associated with various effects, including antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory activities. These compounds include, [...] Read more.
Black tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, second only to water. Its properties are primarily due to the presence of polyphenols, which are associated with various effects, including antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory activities. These compounds include, among others, theaflavins (TFs) and thearubigins (TRs). The available literature provides numerous reports confirming the positive properties of these compounds. However, it is important to highlight their potential protective effects against oxidative stress induced by heavy metals. This is an important topic, given the ongoing exposure to such pollutants—resulting mainly from industrial development, among other factors. This manuscript provides a summary of the current knowledge on the properties of TFs and TRs and their effect against oxidative stress caused by heavy metals in in vitro studies. The limited amount of research in this area shows that this is still a poorly researched topic. Comparing the results obtained for epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea, which has a similar structure to TFs and TRs suggests that they may exhibit similar or even enhanced antioxidant properties. Considering that black tea is consumed much more frequently than green tea worldwide, it is understandable that the antioxidant potential of these two compounds on cells needs to be investigated. Full article
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28 pages, 861 KiB  
Review
Role of Plant-Derived Smoke Solution on Plants Under Stress
by Amana Khatoon, Muhammad Mudasar Aslam and Setsuko Komatsu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 7911; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26167911 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Plants are constantly exposed to various environmental challenges, such as drought, flooding, heavy metal toxicity, and pathogen attacks. To cope with these stresses, they employ several adaptive strategies. This review highlights the potential of plant-derived smoke (PDS) solution as a natural biostimulant for [...] Read more.
Plants are constantly exposed to various environmental challenges, such as drought, flooding, heavy metal toxicity, and pathogen attacks. To cope with these stresses, they employ several adaptive strategies. This review highlights the potential of plant-derived smoke (PDS) solution as a natural biostimulant for improving plant health and resilience, contributing to both crop productivity and ecological restoration under abiotic and biotic stress conditions. Mitigating effects of PDS solution against various stresses were observed at morphological, physiological, and molecular levels in plants. PDS solution application involves strengthening the cell membrane by minimizing electrolyte leakage, which enhances cell membrane stability and stomatal conductance. The increased reactive-oxygen species were managed by the activation of the antioxidant system including ascorbate peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase to meet oxidative damage caused by challenging conditions imposed by flooding, drought, and heavy metal stress. PDS solution along with other by-products of fire, such as charred organic matter and ash, can enrich the soil by slightly increasing its pH and improving nutrient availability. Additionally, some studies indicated that PDS solution may influence phytohormonal pathways, particularly auxins and gibberellic acids, which can contribute to root development and enhance symbiotic interactions with soil microbes, including mycorrhizal fungi. These combined effects may support overall plant growth, though the extent of PDS contribution may vary depending on species and environmental conditions. This boost in plant growth contributes to protecting the plants against pathogens, which shows the role of PDS in enduring biotic stress. Collectively, PDS solution mitigates stress tolerance in plants via multifaceted changes, including the regulation of physico-chemical responses, enhancement of the antioxidant system, modulation of heavy metal speciation, and key adjustments of photosynthesis, respiration, cell membrane transport, and the antioxidant system at genomic/proteomic levels. This review focuses on the role of PDS solution in fortifying plants against environmental stresses. It is suggested that PDS solution, which already has been determined to be a biostimulant, has potential for the revival of plant growth and soil ecosystem under abiotic and biotic stresses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Molecular Plant Sciences)
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18 pages, 1709 KiB  
Article
Effects of Light–Nitrogen Interactions on Leaf Functional Traits of (Picea neoveitchii Mast.)
by Sibo Chen, Siyu Yang, Wanting Liu, Kaiyuan Li, Ninghan Xue and Wenli Ji
Plants 2025, 14(16), 2550; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14162550 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Picea neoveitchii Mast., a critically endangered spruce species endemic to China, is classified as a national second-level key protected wild plant and listed as critically endangered (CR) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Its habitat features complex forest [...] Read more.
Picea neoveitchii Mast., a critically endangered spruce species endemic to China, is classified as a national second-level key protected wild plant and listed as critically endangered (CR) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Its habitat features complex forest light environments, and global climate change coupled with environmental pollution has increased regional nitrogen deposition, posing significant challenges to its survival. This study explores the effects of light–nitrogen interactions on the leaf functional traits of Picea neoveitchii Mast. seedlings by simulating combinations of light intensities (100%, 70%, and 40% full sunlight) and nitrogen application levels (0, 10, and 20 g N·m −2·a−1, where g N·m−2·a−1 denotes grams of nitrogen applied per square meter per year). We examined changes in morphological traits, anatomical structures, photosynthetic physiology, and stress resistance traits. Results indicate that moderate shading (70% full sunlight) significantly enhances leaf morphological traits (e.g., leaf length, leaf area, and specific leaf area) and anatomical features (e.g., mesophyll tissue area and resin duct cavity area), improving light capture and stress resistance. Medium- to high-nitrogen treatments (10 or 20 g N·m−2·a−1) under moderate shading further increase photosynthetic efficiency, stomatal conductance, and antioxidant enzyme activity. According to the comprehensive membership function evaluation, the L2N0 (70% full sunlight, 0 g N·m−2·a−1) treatment exhibits the most balanced performance across both growth and stress-related traits. These findings underscore the critical role of light–nitrogen interactions in the growth and adaptability of Picea neoveitchii Mast. leaves, offering a scientific foundation for the conservation and ecological restoration of endangered plant populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Plant Photobiology)
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15 pages, 2321 KiB  
Article
The Functional Characterization of an AA10 Lytic Polysaccharide Monooxygenase from Saccharophagus degradans 2-40T for Enhanced Chitin Biodegradation
by Dan Wu, Meiling Dan, Mu-Rong Kao, Yanping Li, Jiajia Song, Yuting Zheng, Guohua Zhao, Yves S. Y. Hsieh and Damao Wang
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2839; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162839 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) represent copper-dependent enzymes pivotal in breaking down resilient polysaccharides like cellulose and chitin by means of oxidation, creating more accessible sites for glycoside hydrolases. To elevate the conversion efficiency of chitin, an AA10 LPMO was identified from the genome [...] Read more.
Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) represent copper-dependent enzymes pivotal in breaking down resilient polysaccharides like cellulose and chitin by means of oxidation, creating more accessible sites for glycoside hydrolases. To elevate the conversion efficiency of chitin, an AA10 LPMO was identified from the genome of Saccharophagus degradans 2-40T and heterologously expressed. The optimal pH for the activity of recombinant SdLPMO10A is 9.0, and the optimal temperature is 60 °C. Assessment of SdLPMO10A’s synergism with commercial chitinase indicated that when comparing the enzyme combination’s activity to the activity of chitinase alone, the synergistic effect was significant, and a one-pot reaction appeared superior to a two-step reaction. This discovery of a functional AA10 family LPMO presents a promising avenue for developing highly efficient catalysts for biomass conversion of chitin-rich food processing waste (e.g., shrimp shells) into bioactive chitooligosaccharides with applications in functional foods, such as prebiotics and antioxidants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Biotechnology)
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30 pages, 6444 KiB  
Article
Microalgae-Enriched High-Moisture Meat Analogues: Improved Physicochemical, Functional, and Digestibility Properties
by Wanida Pan-utai, Thidarat Pantoa, Waraporn Prasert, Janya Sangkhiaw, Catleya Rojviriya, Chalermluck Phoovasawat and Hataichanok Kantrong
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2838; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162838 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
This investigation examined the effects of microalgae supplementation on the physicochemical properties, nutritional profile, and digestibility parameters of high-moisture meat analogues (HMMAs). The sustainability and nutritional potential of incorporating three microalgae species—Arthrospira platensis, Haematococcus pluvialis, and Nannochloropsis oculata—into diets [...] Read more.
This investigation examined the effects of microalgae supplementation on the physicochemical properties, nutritional profile, and digestibility parameters of high-moisture meat analogues (HMMAs). The sustainability and nutritional potential of incorporating three microalgae species—Arthrospira platensis, Haematococcus pluvialis, and Nannochloropsis oculata—into diets were investigated at inclusion levels of 0.5% and 1.5% (w/w). Colour metrics, compositional analysis, antioxidant capacity, textural characteristics, and in vitro protein digestibility were also assessed. The findings demonstrated enhancements in nutritional quality, particularly in protein content. Antioxidant capacity was significantly elevated in the 1.5% inclusion samples. Samples containing 1.5% A. platensis exhibited the highest chlorophyll concentrations at 19.91 mg/mg, while 1.5% H. pluvialis displayed carotenoid levels at 34.59 µg/mg. These improvements correlated with increased efficacy in ABTS and FRAP radical scavenging assays. Colourimetric analysis indicated that elevated microalgae concentrations contributed to darker hues; 1.5% H. pluvialis markedly increased redness (a-value, p < 0.05), with the visual profile similar to conventional meat. Supplementation with 1.5% A. platensis consistently decreased hardness and chewiness, likely attributable to enhanced porosity. Conversely, 1.5% N. oculata promoted a honeycomb-like microstructure, thereby augmenting cut resistance and hardness. The diminished rehydration capacity observed in 1.5% H. pluvialis was ascribed to smaller pore sizes, but maintained a higher oil-holding capacity relative to the control. All microalgae-infused HMMAs retained excellent in vitro protein digestibility. These results underscored the potential of microalgae—particularly 1.5% A. platensis for nutritional and textural enhancements, 1.5% H. pluvialis for improved visual and antioxidant properties, and 1.5% N. oculata for elevated phenolic and chlorophyll contents—in advancing sustainable, plant-based meat alternatives. Full article
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24 pages, 1191 KiB  
Review
The Supportive Role of Plant-Based Substances in AMD Treatment and Their Potential
by Karolina Klusek, Magdalena Kijowska, Maria Kiełbus, Julia Sławińska, Dominika Kuźmiuk, Tomasz Chorągiewicz, Robert Rejdak and Joanna Dolar-Szczasny
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 7906; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26167906 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
There is growing interest in the use of natural plant-derived compounds, such as polyphenols (including curcumin), flavonoids, silymarin, anthocyanins, lutein, and zeaxanthin, for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). These substances exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects on retinal cells, contributing to [...] Read more.
There is growing interest in the use of natural plant-derived compounds, such as polyphenols (including curcumin), flavonoids, silymarin, anthocyanins, lutein, and zeaxanthin, for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). These substances exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects on retinal cells, contributing to the preservation of retinal integrity by modulating the key pathogenic mechanisms of AMD, including oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and pathological neovascularization. Consequently, they hold potential to support conventional therapeutic approaches and slow disease progression. Current studies highlight their promising role as adjunctive agents in AMD management. This literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential role of the aforementioned natural plant-derived compounds in the prevention and supportive treatment of age-related macular degeneration. It also discusses their natural sources, modes of administration and supplementation, and highlights the importance of a nutrient-rich diet as a key factor in maintaining ocular health. Furthermore, the review synthesizes current scientific knowledge on the ability of natural antioxidants to slow the progression of AMD and outlines future research directions aimed at improving diagnostic methods and developing more effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eye Diseases: From Pathophysiology to Novel Therapeutic Approaches)
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18 pages, 2535 KiB  
Article
Comparative Enzymatic and Gene Expression Responses in Wheat to DON- and NIV-Producing Fusarium Species
by Gabriela da Rocha Lemos Mendes, Paulo Cesar Pazdiora, Vivian Ebeling Viana, Leandro José Dallagnol, Laura Christina Calgaro, Glacy Jaqueline da Silva, Emerson Medeiros Del Ponte and Antônio Costa de Oliveira
Biology 2025, 14(8), 1063; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14081063 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a major threat to wheat production that is caused by toxigenic species of the Fusarium graminearum complex. This study aimed to investigate the biochemical and molecular defense responses of Brazilian wheat genotypes (BRS 194, BRS Parrudo, and Frontana) [...] Read more.
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a major threat to wheat production that is caused by toxigenic species of the Fusarium graminearum complex. This study aimed to investigate the biochemical and molecular defense responses of Brazilian wheat genotypes (BRS 194, BRS Parrudo, and Frontana) with contrasting FHB susceptibilities following inoculation with F. graminearum (deoxynivalenol producer) and F. meridionale (nivalenol producer). Temporal patterns of antioxidant enzymes, defense-related enzymes, and gene expression (ABC-Transporter and Ca2+-ATPase) were analyzed from 12 to 96 h after inoculation. The ANOVA results revealed significant effects of genotypes, inoculation, and time after inoculation on most of the evaluated enzymatic activities. Frontana exhibited high basal activity for most enzymes, and after inoculation, the enzyme activity was higher than in other genotypes. BRS 194 presented delayed and fragmented activation patterns, particularly under DON-producing pathogen infection. According to the transcriptome results, inoculation with the NIV-producing pathogen upregulated both genes, reaching up to an 18-fold increase. BRS 194 showed an upregulated transcript pattern from the early hours after inoculation. Frontana showed increased transcript levels, reaching 12-fold, under DON-producing pathogen infection. These findings show that biochemical and molecular responses varied depending on genotype and the chemotype of the Fusarium isolate, highlighting the importance of early, coordinated defense activation in FHB resistance. Full article
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27 pages, 3962 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Conventional and Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction to Maximize Recovery of Total Phenolic Content and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity from Crataegus almaatensis Leaves
by Zhanar Nabiyeva, Akerke Kulaipbekova, Serena Carpentieri, Yuliya Pronina, Abdyssemat Samadun, Elmira Assembayeva and Giovanna Ferrari
Antioxidants 2025, 14(8), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14081003 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Crataegus almaatensis, an endemic hawthorn species from Kazakhstan, is known for its rich content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids with significant pharmacological potential. This study aimed to optimize and compare conventional solid–liquid extraction (SLE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) processes for maximizing [...] Read more.
Background: Crataegus almaatensis, an endemic hawthorn species from Kazakhstan, is known for its rich content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids with significant pharmacological potential. This study aimed to optimize and compare conventional solid–liquid extraction (SLE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) processes for maximizing the extractability of bioactive compounds from hawthorn leaves powder. Methods: The effects of temperature, extraction time, ethanol concentration, and solid-to-liquid ratio (or ultrasound power in the case of UAE) on total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity (FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS assays) were systematically evaluated. Results: The UAE method yielded higher concentrations of TPC and TFC, with up to 16% improvement in TPC and reduced ethanol usage (40% (v/v)) compared to SLE (75% (v/v)), demonstrating its efficiency and sustainability. Optimal extraction conditions were identified as 70 °C, 75% ethanol, 34 min, and an S/L ratio of 0.05 g/mL for SLE, 70 °C, 40% ethanol, 44 min, and 100 W US power for UAE. High-resolution HPLC-DAD and LC-Q/TOF-MS analyses confirmed the presence of key phenolic acids and flavonoid glycosides, including chlorogenic acid and apigenin-8-C-glucoside-2′-rhamnoside as the most abundant compounds identified. Conclusions: These findings validate UAE as an innovative, eco-friendly method for extracting bioactive compounds from hawthorn leaves and highlight its potential for developing natural antioxidants for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. Full article
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12 pages, 254 KiB  
Article
Effects of Gingko biloba and Milk Thistle Extracts on Biomarkers of Antioxidants Status and Liver Function in Healthy Dogs
by Rachakris Lertpatarakomol, Tassanee Trairatapiwan, Auraiwan Klaengkaew, Jamlong Mitchaothai and Achara Lukkananukool
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(8), 763; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12080763 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of Ginkgo biloba and milk thistle seed extract (GB/MT) supplementation on antioxidant status, liver function, and general health in healthy dogs. Six French Bulldogs were enrolled in a crossover design and fed commercial diets supplemented with GB/MT at [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of Ginkgo biloba and milk thistle seed extract (GB/MT) supplementation on antioxidant status, liver function, and general health in healthy dogs. Six French Bulldogs were enrolled in a crossover design and fed commercial diets supplemented with GB/MT at either 1 or 2 g/day for 21 days. Blood samples were collected at baseline (day 0), during supplementation (days 14 and 21), and after withdrawal (day 28) to assess serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH/GSSG), liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), albumin, total protein, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, triglycerides, and cholesterol. Results showed that GB/MT supplementation had no significant effect on antioxidant markers (SOD and GSH/GSSG) at either dose. However, both supplementation levels led to significant decreases in ALT and increases in serum albumin levels after 21 days. No significant differences were observed in other liver function or general health parameters. These findings suggest that GB/MT supplementation does not enhance antioxidant enzyme activity under non-stressed conditions but may support liver health by reducing liver enzyme levels and enhancing protein synthesis. The 1 g/day dose was found to be as effective as the higher dose, suggesting a cost-effective approach for maintaining liver function in dogs through dietary botanical supplementation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Research on Companion Animal Nutrition)
25 pages, 2734 KiB  
Article
Nanoextract of Zataria multiflora Boiss. Enhances Salt Stress Tolerance in Hydroponically Grown Ocimum basilicum L. var. Genovese
by Edris Shabani, Fardin Ghanbari, Afsaneh Azizi, Elham Helalipour and Matteo Caser
Horticulturae 2025, 11(8), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11080970 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
In order to investigate the effect of Zataria multiflora Bioss. extract and nanoextract on morphophysiological and phytochemical indices, yield, and essential oil compositions of basil (Ocimum basilicum L. var. Genovese) under salinity stress (0, 25, 50, and 100 mM NaCl), an experiment [...] Read more.
In order to investigate the effect of Zataria multiflora Bioss. extract and nanoextract on morphophysiological and phytochemical indices, yield, and essential oil compositions of basil (Ocimum basilicum L. var. Genovese) under salinity stress (0, 25, 50, and 100 mM NaCl), an experiment was conducted as a split-plot design in a basic block with complete randomization and three replications. In the treatment without salinity, nanoextract increased the shoot fresh weight by 34.28%, and regular extract increased it by 8.35% compared to the 0 NaCl without extract. In the treatment without salinity stress, nanoextract decreased the Na content by 17%, and regular extract decreased it by 5%; nanoextract increased the K content by 22.93%, and regular extract increased it by 9.05% compared to the 0 NaCl without extract, respectively. In all salinity concentrations applied, nanoextract showed lower sodium accumulation and higher potassium accumulation rate than regular extract and treatment without extract at the same salinity concentration. The highest total phenols were observed in the 100 mM salinity treatment in both nanoextract and regular extract of Z. multiflora, followed by the 50 mM salinity treatment—nano extract, with 12.33, 11.17, and 10.01 mg GA g−1 FW, respectively. In the non-saline stress treatment, nanoextract increased the proline content by 125%, and regular extract increased it by 79.16% compared to the 0 NaCl without extract. In the treatment without salinity stress, the nano extract increased the level of PAL enzyme by 16.66% and the regular extract by 8.33% compared to the 0 NaCl without extract. The highest antioxidant activity was observed in the 100 mM salinity treatment in both nano extract and regular extract of Z. multiflora, followed by the 50 mM salinity treatment and nano extract with 31.86, 30.60, and 28.21%, respectively. In this study, the results of essential oil analysis indicated the identification of 39 compounds in which linalool, eugenol, carotenoid, methyl chavicol, A-Humulene, and menthol were identified as the main compounds. Among all treatments, Z. multiflora nanoextract, while moderating the effects of stress, showed the highest efficiency in improving the morphophysiological and biochemical traits and essential oil content and secondary metabolites of O. basilicum L. var. Genovese. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Horticulturae—Recent Outcomes and Perspectives)
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17 pages, 1892 KiB  
Article
First Evidence of the Potential of Postharvest Hesperidin Treatments: Effects on Strawberry Quality During Storage
by Mihaela Iasmina Madalina Ilea, Huertas María Díaz-Mula, Christian Fernández-Picazo, Pedro Javier Zapata, Alicia Dobón-Suárez, Salvador Castillo and Fabián Guillén
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2837; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162837 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
Strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) are highly perishable fruits that rapidly lose their quality properties, even when stored under cold conditions. The purpose of this research was to study the effectiveness of hesperidin (10, 50, and 100 mg L−1) to [...] Read more.
Strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) are highly perishable fruits that rapidly lose their quality properties, even when stored under cold conditions. The purpose of this research was to study the effectiveness of hesperidin (10, 50, and 100 mg L−1) to preserve harvest-ripe strawberry quality during cold storage (2 °C). The data obtained indicate that hesperidin treatments were able to delay fruit metabolism and thus weight loss, while maintaining firmness and delaying colour evolution, obtaining positive results even with the lower concentrations applied. Strawberries treated with hesperidin exhibited a cell membrane with greater integrity, as reflected by a lower loss of electrolytes, resulting from reduced oxidation degradation. In addition, these strawberries maintained a higher concentration of chlorophylls in the calyx during storage, which could be due to a better antioxidant balance and a more effective preservation of their qualities. In this regard, the levels of bioactive substances, including total phenolics and the major anthocyanin compounds present in strawberries, were delayed in hesperidin-treated strawberries. This is the first report highlighting the effectiveness of hesperidin as a postharvest treatment in fruit, specifically in strawberries, delaying senescence. These results suggest that hesperidin, either by itself or in hesperidin-rich extracts, could become a valuable tool for postharvest fruit preservation. Full article
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28 pages, 1659 KiB  
Review
The Potential Therapeutic Applications of Natural Products in the Oxidative Stress-Related MVA Pathway: Focus on HMGCR
by Yu-Ning Teng
Antioxidants 2025, 14(8), 1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14081001 (registering DOI) - 16 Aug 2025
Abstract
This review explores the therapeutic promise of natural compounds in modulating 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR), a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. HMGCR dysregulation is implicated in dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, conditions linked to oxidative stress. While statins inhibit HMGCR, their side effects [...] Read more.
This review explores the therapeutic promise of natural compounds in modulating 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR), a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. HMGCR dysregulation is implicated in dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, conditions linked to oxidative stress. While statins inhibit HMGCR, their side effects necessitate exploring alternatives. The review highlights various natural compounds—flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and herbal formulations—with HMGCR-modulating and antioxidant capabilities. In vitro and in vivo studies suggest these compounds offer a promising avenue for treating HMGCR-related conditions. Synergistic effects are observed when combining natural products with statins, hinting at combination therapies that could lower statin dosages and reduce adverse effects. Natural HMGCR modulators hold therapeutic promise but face hurdles like limited in vivo data, regulatory issues, variability in composition, potential drug interactions, and safety concerns. Future research must prioritize comprehensive mechanistic studies, standardized preparations, and well-designed clinical trials. Overcoming these challenges through rigorous science is essential for integrating natural HMGCR modulators into clinical practice and improving patient outcomes in a safe and effective manner. Specifically, clinical trials should consider combination therapies and comparison with standard treatments like statins. More research is also needed on optimal dosages and treatment regimens. Full article
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