Search Results (35,945)

Mescaline, the primary bioactive alkaloid found in Peyote and San Pedro cactus, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is now attracting renewed interest for clinical applications. The purpose of this systematic review was to search the literature for studies reporting the use of mescaline to address the gap in our understanding of mescaline use and its impact. References were exported from PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane. Included studies contained patient data pertaining to mescaline, primary sources for beliefs on the use of mescaline as traditional medicine, and a range of psychiatric conditions. Excluded studies included unpublished studies, animal studies, and studies without English full-texts available. Of 2770 imported references, 66 met the inclusion criteria, with only 10 being found suitable for analysis. Studies reported therapeutic effects such as improvements in depression scales, well-being, nicotine dependence, alcohol use, and obsessions. Bayesian analysis found that certain effects were frequently reported, such as hypertension, headache, nausea, and vomiting. The existing literature on mescaline is limited and of highly variable quality, preventing definitive conclusions regarding the prevalence of psychological and somatic effects from mescaline and mescaline-containing ethnobotanicals. Additional research is needed to determine the safety profile of mescaline. Given the prevalence of Peyote use in the Native American Church, the collaboration of the Native American Church and regional hospitals/poison centers is recommended to create a registry to allow for standardized and clinically applicable data collection on the effects of mescaline in prevalent populations. Full article

The bioactive compounds in thyme essential oil (TEO) have been investigated as natural preservatives. However, their direct application in foods is limited by their poor water solubility and high volatility. In this context, nanoemulsions represent promising delivery systems for bioactive compounds due to their improved physicochemical stability and functional performance. This study aimed to develop and characterize TEO nanoemulsions prepared by ultrasound-assisted encapsulation using an ultrasonic probe and whey protein concentrate as a surfactant, with potential application in chicken burgers. Different sonication times (1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 min) were evaluated, and ultrasonication time was evaluated as the experimental variable. The formulation processed for 3 min presented the smallest hydrodynamic diameter (289 nm) and a homogeneous spherical morphology. The nanoemulsions showed low cytotoxicity, maintaining cell viability above 90% at all evaluated concentrations. In vitro antibacterial assays demonstrated activity against Staphylococcus aureus and antifungal effects against Aspergillus and Penicillium species. When applied to chicken burgers, the treatment containing 100 ppm of nanoencapsulated TEO contributed to reductions in S. aureus and mesophilic aerobic microorganism counts during 7 days of refrigerated storage. These findings indicate that TEO nanoemulsions present potential as natural antimicrobial systems for food preservation applications. Full article

This review classifies plant-derived functional ingredients in pet food according to phytochemical groups and application forms, including direct oral supplementation and incorporation into complete diets. Polyphenols and plant extracts exert prominent antioxidant (singular), anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and microbiome-regulating effects. Microalgae and omega-3 sources support lipid metabolism, cardiovascular function, and skin integrity. Cannabinoids demonstrate dose-dependent responses in dogs, while cats generally tolerate long-term administration and exhibit notable benefits in chronic pain management. Combinations of botanical extracts with complementary bioactives and fermented botanical preparations exhibit multi-target functionality, with dogs showing pronounced biochemical and microbiome modulation, whereas cats display more behavioral and functional improvements. Phytochemicals operate through integrated multi-level regulation, including activation of antioxidant enzymes, modulation of inflammatory cytokines and T-lymphocyte ratios, microbial metabolic shifts toward short-chain fatty acid production, and regulation of lipid metabolism. Dogs demonstrate marked effects on hepatic function, reproductive resilience, microbiome diversity, CD4+/CD8+ balance, and cholesterol control. In contrast, cats show greater benefits in inflammation reduction, pain relief, intestinal integrity, and long-term safety. These species-specific responses underscore the importance of precision formulation and highlight the emergence of plant-based “pharma-pet nutrition” integrating nutritional and biochemical strategies for targeted health promotion. Full article

The rising demand for sustainable and circular approaches in the agro-industrial sector has generated interest in repurposing herbal tea residues as sources of high-value bioactive compounds. This work focusses on recovering phytochemicals from Rosa canina L. peel and seed dust (by-products of processing of herbal tea in filter tea bags) using green extraction techniques. Two environmentally friendly technologies were used: ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) with a sonotrode and subcritical fluid extraction (SBFE). The extracts were qualitatively profiled using (HR) LC-ESI-QToF-MS/MS and quantified using HPLC-PDA. Both by-products contained phenolic substances, including gallic acid derivatives, ellagic acid, and flavonoids such as quercetin and quercetin-3-O-glucoside (only in the peel). Additionally, Folin–Ciocalteu’s assay was used to determine Total Phenolic content (TP). The extraction efficiency was considered in terms of phenolic compound recovery and total phenolic content obtained under the respective experimental conditions. The maximum TP for SBFE was reported in samples extracted with ethanol–water (48:52) at 180 °C, producing 3876.67 GAE mg/L for peel and 1648.57 GAE mg/L for seeds. In the UAE, extraction with ethanol–water (48:52) for 10 min yielded the maximum TP of 2773.81 GAE mg/L for peel and 957.86 GAE mg/L for seeds. These findings highlight the potential of R. canina infusion by-products as long-term sources of bioactive compounds for use in nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Full article

Polysaccharides are natural polymers that are widely found in medicinal plants. Structurally, they are complex molecules composed of long chains of monosaccharide units linked by glycosidic bonds. Modern pharmacological research shows that the bioactivity of polysaccharides is closely related to their monosaccharide composition. This review summarises the monosaccharide composition of 210 polysaccharides from 72 medicinal plants. They were classified into 10 types through principal component analysis (glucans; homogalacturonan; galactans; arabinogalactans; mannans; glucomannans; arabinans; xylans; fructans; rhamnogalacturonan-I). The relationship between monosaccharide composition and biological activity was further analysed. The results are as follows: glucans make significant contributions to immunomodulation, antioxidant activity, and gut microbiota regulation; galactans are crucial for antioxidant effects, immunomodulation, and gut microbiota regulation; mannans play a key role in immunomodulation, antitumor activity, and neuroprotection; fructans are vital for gut microbiota regulation, immunomodulation, and antioxidant effects; and pectins exhibit notable immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and hypoglycaemic properties. Consequently, developing polysaccharides from medicinal plant resources based on their monosaccharide composition is expected to speed up the search for polysaccharides with high biological activity and provide a theoretical reference for polysaccharide research. Full article

Glaucoma, characterized by progressive retinal ganglion cell degeneration and optic nerve damage, is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Multiple risk factors influence the pathogenesis and progression of glaucoma. Food-derived bioactive components have emerged as a new area of interest to overcome the limitations of current standard treatments due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and multi-target mechanisms. In this context, various plant-derived foods, such as Lycium barbarum, Ganoderma lucidum, Cryptotanshinone, Scutellaria baicalensis, Silybum marianum, Astragalus membranaceus, Ginkgo biloba, Panax ginseng, Crocus sativus, and resveratrol, have shown potential mechanisms for treating glaucoma. These bioactive components may address oxidative damage, neuroinflammation, and elevated intraocular pressure, which may be due to the modulation of multiple signaling pathways, including JAK2/STAT3, PI3K/AKT, MEK/ERK/CREB, cAMP/PKA/CREB, and others. However, further clinical trials are needed to validate dosage, bioavailability, and long-term safety. This review highlights the potential of bioactive components from plant-derived foods, offering a reference for further investigation into their effects on glaucoma. Full article

Background/Objectives: Ginger has a long history as both a culinary and medicinal plant and is widely recognized in traditional medicine for its ability to promote health and well-being. The principal bioactive compounds of ginger are present in fresh and dried forms and have been largely studied for their therapeutic potential. These compounds exhibit a wide range of biological activities mediated through various mechanisms. Advances in nanotechnology have enabled the development of innovative delivery systems, thereby enhancing the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of ginger-derived compounds in modern medical applications. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to evaluate the characteristics of ginger and its potential role in disease prevention. Relevant studies were identified through the main research databases, publication screening, manual reference checks, and author consensus was conducted. Results: This narrative review provides an overview of the therapeutic potential of bioactive compounds in ginger for the management and prevention of cardiovascular, arthritis, neurodegenerative, and gastrointestinal diseases, with particular emphasis on the molecular mechanisms. In addition, their potential anti-aging properties are extensively discussed. The evidence reported is predominantly preclinical (in vitro and in vivo models), with more limited and heterogeneous clinical data. Recent studies have also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in accelerating the discovery and evaluation of bioactive agents with therapeutic relevance across diverse biological systems. Conclusions: This review highlights the emerging applications of ginger extracts in human health and suggests their applications in both traditional medicine and contemporary drug discovery. Full article

Olive mill wastewater (OMW) is an agro-industrial byproduct rich in polyphenols and other bioactive compounds with documented antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In this study, purified OMW fractions (RO1 and MD2), previously characterized by high polyphenol content and strong antioxidant activity, were incorporated (10% w/w) into cellulose-based hydrogels intended for topical application. Hydrogels were prepared using carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), and methylcellulose (MC) at concentrations of 1.5–2.0% (w/w). The formulations were characterized in terms of organoleptic properties, pH, rheological behavior, swelling capacity, weight loss, antioxidant activity (DPPH assay), and microbiological activity against selected skin pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Rheological analysis confirmed pseudoplastic behavior suitable for topical administration. OMW-loaded hydrogels exhibited significant radical scavenging activity compared to blank formulations and demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy, supporting the preservation of OMW bioactivity within the polymeric network. The results highlight the potential of cellulose-based hydrogels as sustainable and biocompatible carriers for the valorization of OMW in dermatological applications, particularly for the management of oxidative stress and bacterial skin infections. Full article

Bitter compounds may function not only as taste substances but also as important active constituents mediating therapeutic effects. Their recognition is primarily mediated by bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs), which exert pharmacological effects, such as regulating glucose metabolism, anti-inflammatory properties, and immune modulation, aligning closely with the therapeutic effects of bitter Chinese herbal medicine (BCHM). Contemporary pharmacological research has increasingly underscored the therapeutic potential of bitter traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly through their bioactive constituents in the prevention and treatment of diverse pathological conditions. Here, we systematically review the diversity of bitter compounds from TCM and features of TAS2Rs, including their tissue distribution, physiological functions, structural characteristics, signal transduction mechanisms, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms. While numerous bitter phytochemicals have been characterized as agonists of TAS2Rs, the precise physiological functions and underlying molecular mechanisms mediated by TAS2R activation remain incompletely elucidated. This knowledge gap is largely attributable to several methodological and biological challenges, including the widespread tissue distribution of TAS2Rs, the complexity of their downstream signaling cascades, and the structural and functional heterogeneity of bitter compounds. This review outlines theoretical foundations, future perspectives and challenges for the drug development of TAS2R from BCHM. Full article

Background/Objectives: Salidroside, a bioactive phenylethanol glycoside primarily derived from Rhodiola rosea, and its major in vivo metabolite tyrosol exhibit diverse pharmacological activities. However, their direct molecular targets remain poorly defined. Methods: In the present study, an integrated strategy combining transcriptomic profiling, Connectivity Map (CMap) analysis, and multi-level experimental validation was employed. Transcriptomic signatures derived from A549 cells treated with salidroside or tyrosol were queried against the CMap database. Molecular docking, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and cellular thermal shift assays (CETSA) were performed to predict and validate binding interactions. Functional validation was performed in SH-SY5Y cells. The phosphorylation level of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), a downstream signaling event of dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2), was detected after salidroside and tyrosol treatment. DRD2 antagonist sulpiride pre-intervention and small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated DRD2 knockdown were conducted to verify the receptor dependence of the compounds’ effects. Results: CMap analysis revealed that the transcriptomic signatures of salidroside and tyrosol showed significant similarity to known DRD2 modulators. Molecular docking predicted potential binding interactions between the two compounds and DRD2, which was confirmed by SPR and CETSA to be direct physical binding. Functional studies showed that both compounds rapidly induced DRD2 downstream ERK phosphorylation in SH-SY5Y cells; this effect was abrogated by sulpiride or DRD2 knockdown, indicating DRD2-dependent signaling activation. Conclusions: These findings identify DRD2 as a direct molecular target of salidroside and tyrosol and provide mechanistic insight into their dopaminergic regulatory effects. This study highlights the utility of CMap-guided target discovery combined with rigorous experimental validation for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of natural products. Full article

Background/Objectives: The valorization of bioactive compounds from food industry by-products aligns with sustainable development goals and represents a strategy for obtaining functional ingredients. Hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) skins are a phenolic-rich residue with high antioxidant potential, but their extraction conditions and cellular mechanisms of action remain insufficiently explored. Methods: Ultrasound-assisted extraction was optimized using a 3³ Full Factorial Design (FFD) by investigating temperature (30–50–70 °C), extraction time (1–2–3 h), and solvent composition (water/ethanol). Antioxidant activity was evaluated using multiple in vitro assays, including Total Phenolic Content (TPC), DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and β-carotene bleaching (BCB) assays. The optimized extract (OE) was chemically characterized by UHPLC–MS/MS and its activity was evaluated in HepG2 cells for biocompatibility, modulation of intracellular ROS levels, and antioxidant pathway activation. Results: Optimal extraction conditions were identified as 30 °C, 70.86 min (1.181 h), and 21.13% ethanol (v/v), yielding an extract with enhanced antioxidant capacity. UHPLC–MS/MS analysis revealed 25 bioactive compounds, mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids, relevant for oxidative stress modulation. The extract significantly reduced tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBH)-induced intracellular ROS levels, restoring antioxidant proteins involved in the Nuclear Factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF-2)-mediated defense pathway. Conclusions: The optimized hazelnut skin extract combines strong antioxidant efficacy with cellular compatibility, supporting its potential application as a functional ingredient for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical strategies targeting oxidative stress-related conditions. Full article

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains a significant global health challenge, highlighting the need for novel dual inhibitors targeting acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). This study investigated the trunk bark of Terminalia triptera Stapf. as a potential source of bioactive secondary metabolites for AD management. Bioassay-guided isolation led to the identification of two flavan-3-ol derivatives, epicatechin-(4β→8)-ent-catechin (1) and (−)-catechin (2), reported here for the first time from this species. In vitro assays demonstrated that the dimeric compound 1 exhibited stronger dual inhibitory activity against AChE and BChE, with IC₅₀ values of 4.41 × 10⁻⁴ and 4.75 × 10⁻⁴ mol/L, respectively, surpassing the reference compound berberine chloride. Molecular docking analysis revealed that compound 1 formed extensive interactions within both catalytic and peripheral anionic sites of the enzymes. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations indicated high kinetic stability, reflected by large HOMO–LUMO energy gaps (6.66–6.97 eV), while global reactivity descriptors suggested lower electrophilicity (ω = 2.19–2.34 eV), supporting a potentially favorable safety profile. Furthermore, 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations confirmed stable ligand–protein complexes stabilized by hydrogen-bond networks and deep binding within catalytic pockets. Overall, these findings highlight T. triptera and its dimeric proanthocyanidins as promising multi-target candidates for anti-Alzheimer drug development. Full article

Cocoa pod husk (CPH), a major agro-industrial residue, contains valuable bioactive compounds whose recovery can support sustainable waste valorization. This study evaluated the influence of increasing ethanol concentrations on the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of bioactive compounds from CPH and their antioxidant, antihypertensive, and antihyperglycemic activity. Dried and milled CPH was extracted using ethanol–water mixtures (0–100% ethanol) under fixed ultrasonic conditions. Cocoa pod husk powder characterization and the resulting extracts were analyzed in terms of chemical composition (lignocellulosic compounds, proximate and elemental composition, and bromatological composition), antioxidant capacity, and in vivo antihypertensive and antihyperglycemic effects in Wistar rats. The results showed that solvent polarity strongly modulated extraction efficiency: absolute ethanol yielded the highest phenolic (171.43 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (132.05 mg QE/g) content, whereas hydroalcoholic mixtures, particularly 50:50, enhanced overall antioxidant performance, especially in FRAP. The chemical analysis results showed the selective recovery of compounds such as quercetin, hesperidin, and theobromine, and FTIR-PCA results revealed distinct solvent-dependent chemical profiles. In vivo assays indicated modest blood pressure stabilization and a more pronounced antihyperglycemic effect after chronic administration. Overall, UAE proved an effective, rapid, and solvent-efficient method for CPH valorization, highlighting its potential for producing natural antioxidants applicable to food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic formulations. Full article

Background: Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease that has emerged as a major global public health concern. Obesity complications refer to a range of metabolic, neurological and behavioral disorders. Complex interaction mechanisms exist between obesity and the brain, including neuroendocrine regulation, center inflammatory responses, the gut–brain axis, and obesity-related cognitive impairment. Polyphenols are naturally occurring bioactive compounds widely found in plants. Recent research indicates that polyphenols may modulate the brain through multiple pathways, thereby ameliorating obesity complications. However, no data set available to summarize neuroregulatory effects of dietary polyphenols on obesity complication. Methods: The latest data available were collected to review research progress focusing on neuroregulatory roles of polyphenols on obesity complication. Results: This review summarizes the interaction between obesity and the brain and further explores the effects of polyphenols on obesity-related neurological disorders, with particular emphasis on their roles in appetite regulation, central neuroinflammation, brain leptin and insulin resistance, gut–brain axis modulation, and cognitive improvement. Finally, future perspectives are discussed. Conclusions: This paper may provide a new theoretical support and research direction for the potential of polyphenols against obesity-related neurological complications. Full article

This study provides a comparative evaluation of two Salvia species, the widely cultivated Salvia sclarea L. and the comparatively underexplored wild species Salvia pratensis L., integrating phytochemical profiling, chemical safety assessment, and biological activity investigation. Dried hydroethanolic extracts and essential oils obtained from aerial parts were analysed. HPLC–PDA analysis revealed distinct phenolic acid profiles, with S. sclarea characterized by higher levels of rosmarinic and protocatechuic acids, whereas S. pratensis contained greater amounts of hydroxycinnamic acids such as caffeic, p-coumaric, and ferulic acids. The total phenolic content was higher in S. pratensis (79.22 mg GAE/g dry extract) than in S. sclarea (52.50 mg GAE/g). GC–MS analysis showed that the essential oil of S. sclarea was dominated by oxygenated monoterpenes, mainly linalyl acetate and linalool, while S. pratensis exhibited a linalool-rich profile accompanied by sesquiterpene derivatives. Chemical safety assessment indicated minimal contamination, with pesticide residues detected only in S. sclarea at levels below regulatory limits and low concentrations of cadmium and lead in both species. The extracts showed strong antioxidant activity (DPPH IC₅₀ values of 6.67 µg/mL for S. sclarea and 3.16 µg/mL for S. pratensis) and moderate broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity (MIC 312.5–2500 µg/mL). In vitro assays on HEK 293 and HaCaT cells confirmed low cytotoxicity, with no evidence of membrane damage or pro-inflammatory effects. Overall, the results highlight the significant bioactive potential of the less studied S. pratensis, demonstrating that this wild species represents a promising alternative source of natural antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds comparable to the widely cultivated S. sclarea. Full article