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Search Results (777)

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Keywords = hydroxybenzoic acids

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22 pages, 7605 KB  
Article
Investigation of the Antioxidant Activity of Hydroxycinnamic Acids, Hydroxybenzoic Acids, and Their Synthetic Diazomethane Derivatives
by Katherine Liset Ortiz Paternina, Michel Murillo Acosta and Joaquín Hernández Fernández
Molecules 2026, 31(9), 1375; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31091375 - 22 Apr 2026
Viewed by 202
Abstract
Phenolic-rich extracts from Satureja montana were evaluated before and after diazomethane treatment to determine how chemical derivatization influences their antioxidant capacity. Native and modified extracts were compared experimentally by measuring total phenolic content, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and Fe2+-chelating ability. [...] Read more.
Phenolic-rich extracts from Satureja montana were evaluated before and after diazomethane treatment to determine how chemical derivatization influences their antioxidant capacity. Native and modified extracts were compared experimentally by measuring total phenolic content, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and Fe2+-chelating ability. EN1 exhibited the highest concentration of phenolic compounds, reaching 1278.54 mmol/g, whereas EM2 retained only 1.99 mmol/g. In the FRAP assay, reducing power followed the order EN1 (9.36) > EN2 (3.72) > EM2 (2.08), with EM2 still exceeding caffeic, chlorogenic, and ferulic acids. In contrast, the modified extracts showed superior metal chelating capacity, with EM1 and EM2 displaying IC50 values of 0.70 and 0.82 mg/mL, respectively, both markedly lower than those of the native extracts and the pure standards. To rationalize these differences, a DFT study was performed at the B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level, examining 18 proposed phenolic acids and their methylated derivatives associated with the extracts. All methylation reactions were thermodynamically favorable, particularly for compounds 18 (−57.10 kcal/mol), 16 (−53.96), 6 (−53.34), and 3, 9, and 11 (−52.71). Solvent effects were found to be structure-dependent: caffeic acid showed BDE values of 72.29, 73.59, and 74.43 kcal/mol in the gas phase, water, and benzene, respectively, whereas syringic acid displayed values of 80.44, 77.09, and 80.65 kcal/mol under the same conditions. Likewise, the ionization potential of caffeic acid decreased from 180.09 kcal/mol in the gas phase to 133.26 kcal/mol in water and 154.22 kcal/mol in benzene. Among all analyzed species, methyl 3,4-dihydroxycinnamate exhibited the lowest BDE (71.60 kcal/mol) as well as the most favorable ΔG°r toward HOO• (−11.06 kcal/mol). Full article
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15 pages, 717 KB  
Review
Bypass Treatments for Primary Coenzyme Q10 Deficiency: An Update
by David Mantle, Neve Cufflin and Iain P. Hargreaves
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(8), 3526; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27083526 - 15 Apr 2026
Viewed by 353
Abstract
Primary coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) deficiency results from mutations in genes involved in the CoQ10 biosynthetic pathway. In humans, at least 10 genes (PDSS1, PDSS2 to COQ10) are required for the biosynthesis of functional CoQ10, a mutation in any one of [...] Read more.
Primary coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) deficiency results from mutations in genes involved in the CoQ10 biosynthetic pathway. In humans, at least 10 genes (PDSS1, PDSS2 to COQ10) are required for the biosynthesis of functional CoQ10, a mutation in any one of which can result in a deficit in CoQ10 status and present as primary CoQ10 deficiency. Furthermore, the genes NDUFA9 and HPDL, whilst not part of the PDSS1, PDSS2 to COQ10 gene sequence, have also been shown to have a crucial role in CoQ10 biosynthesis. A major problem in treating primary CoQ10 deficiencies is the poor bioavailability of supplemental CoQ10, both in terms of lack of absorption from the digestive tract and inability to cross the human blood–brain barrier. Bypass strategies aim to circumvent this problem by using more bioavailable precursor analogues that can enter the cell and be incorporated into the CoQ10 synthesis pathway downstream of the affected enzyme, examples being 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid or vanillic acid, which, in contrast to CoQ10, are small, water-soluble molecules. In this article, we have, therefore, reviewed potential bypass mechanisms for primary CoQ10 deficiencies, PDSS1, PDSS2 to COQ10, together with NDUFA9 and HPDL, using such precursors. Most of the published data relating to the bypass therapy of primary CoQ10 deficiency is derived from cell lines or animal models, and few human studies have so far been undertaken. In addition, further research is required to investigate the potential mechanisms by which bypass compounds such as 4-HB may access the human blood–brain barrier (BBB), for example, using in vitro co-culture BBB model systems incorporating CoQ10-deficient neurons. Overall, the objective of this article is, therefore, to systematically review the available data for each of the primary CoQ10 deficiencies, PDSS1, PDSS2 to COQ10 together with NDUFA9 and HPDL, in particular to identify the clinical potential of such studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mitochondrial Function and Therapies)
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12 pages, 17529 KB  
Article
The Effect of Pediococcus Lactis and Postbiotics on Gut Health and Intestinal Metabolic Profiles
by Jintao Sun, Huaiyu Zhang, Weina Liu, Jinquan Wang, Xiumin Wang, Zhenlong Wang, Hui Tao and Bing Han
Nutrients 2026, 18(8), 1184; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18081184 - 9 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 318
Abstract
Background: To investigate the effects of probiotics and their postbiotics on mouse health, this study utilized healthy mice randomly assigned to a control group (CK, n = 6), a probiotic group (L, n = 6, oral gavage 200 μL Pediococcus lactis), and [...] Read more.
Background: To investigate the effects of probiotics and their postbiotics on mouse health, this study utilized healthy mice randomly assigned to a control group (CK, n = 6), a probiotic group (L, n = 6, oral gavage 200 μL Pediococcus lactis), and a postbiotic group (PL, n = 6, oral gavage 200 μL Pediococcus lactis postbiotic). Methods: Following 21 days of continuous intervention, changes in gut metabolic profiles, microbial community structure, tissue morphology, and tight junction protein expression were systematically analyzed using metabolomics, 16S rRNA sequencing, hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, and immunohistochemistry techniques. Results: The results revealed that screening for significantly altered endogenous metabolites identified core differences concentrated in metabolites related to intestinal barrier repair, anti-inflammation, and antioxidant activity (e.g., 3-indolepropionic acid, astaxanthin, hydroxybenzoic acid). 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that the overall community structure was relatively stable according to principal component analysis, although differences were detected in specific taxa. However, LEfSe analysis identified significantly enriched functional microbial groups at multiple taxonomic levels in the PL group: phylum: Actinomycetota; class: Coriobacteriia; order: Coriobacteriales, Erysipelotrichales; family: Erysipelotrichaceae, Eggerthellaceae; genus: norank_Erysipelotrichaceae, Intestinimonas. These results suggest that although the overall community structure remained relatively stable, specific taxa may have differed between groups. Hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed no pathological lesions in intestinal tissues from either group, with intact mucosal architecture. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated significantly elevated expression of intestinal tight junction proteins Claudin 1, MUC-2, Occludin, and ZO-1 in the PL group compared to the CK group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In summary, this probiotic (Pediococcus lactis) and its postbiotic showed promising effects, which may be related to changes in specific microbiota taxa, intestinal metabolic profiles, and tight junction protein expression. Beyond maintaining gut microbiota and tissue homeostasis, it enhances intestinal barrier function, suppresses latent inflammation, and boosts antioxidant capacity. Postbiotics may exhibit superior efficacy compared to probiotics. This provides robust experimental evidence for its development and application in gut health products for healthy populations. However, these findings still require further validation in studies with longer intervention periods and in disease models. Full article
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21 pages, 4286 KB  
Article
Metabolite-Mediated Antioxidant-Rich Bacterial Isolates for the Control of Anthracnose Disease and Enhancement of the Post-Harvest Shelf Life of Mango (Mangifera indica L.)
by T. Damodaran, Karma Beer, Prasenjit Debnath, Sumit K. Soni, Maneesh Mishra, M. Muthukumar, Nisha Sulakhe and Prabhat Kumar Shukla
Plants 2026, 15(7), 1130; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15071130 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 464
Abstract
Mango (Mangifera indica L.), being a climacteric fruit, is highly perishable due to rapid ripening and post-harvest diseases like anthracnose, which significantly shorten its shelf life and limit long-distance sea export. To mitigate these constraints, a chemical-free secondary metabolite-based formulation (SMsF) was [...] Read more.
Mango (Mangifera indica L.), being a climacteric fruit, is highly perishable due to rapid ripening and post-harvest diseases like anthracnose, which significantly shorten its shelf life and limit long-distance sea export. To mitigate these constraints, a chemical-free secondary metabolite-based formulation (SMsF) was developed to delay ripening and control post-harvest anthracnose during storage. The SMsF possesses dual-action properties and is derived from the culture filtrate of Priestia aryabhattai, exhibiting ACC deaminase activity that restricts ethylene formation. It is also rich in antifungal compounds such as vanillic acid, hydroxybenzoic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, palmitic acid, and BBIT, which inhibit anthracnose development. Additionally, it contains antioxidants including quercetin, coumaryl quinic acid, oleic acid, and acetylglycitin that enhance shelf life and disease resistance. The efficacy of SMsF was evaluated in mango cv. Banganapalli was stored at 12 ± 1 °C and 85–90% relative humidity under simulated reefer conditions (SRC). Integration of gamma irradiation with SMsF provided superior results in disease control and shelf-life extension. The combined treatment maintained higher fruit firmness (0.86 kg cm−2), optimal total soluble solids (14.3 °B), desirable acidity (0.22%), and complete suppression of anthracnose (PDI = 0) up to 40 days of storage under SRC compared with the control. The findings conclusively demonstrate that the synergistic application of SMsF and gamma irradiation effectively regulates ripening, enhances fruit quality, and ensures complete disease suppression, thereby significantly extending storage life. This approach holds strong scientific and commercial significance as a sustainable, residue-free, and export-oriented technology capable of improving long-distance transportation, reducing post-harvest losses, and promoting safe mango trade. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Protection and Biotic Interactions)
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22 pages, 7282 KB  
Article
Evaluation of Phenolic Acids as Selective Bioherbicides: A Preliminary Study on Their Effects on Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. Germination and Soil Beneficial Bacteria
by Maja Šćepanović, Irina Tanuwidjaja, Laura Pismarović, Valentina Šoštarčić and Mirna Mrkonjić Fuka
Plants 2026, 15(7), 1127; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15071127 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 392
Abstract
The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the effects of six phenolic acids applied individually and in combination at concentrations of 0–20 mM on Ambrosia artemisiifolia and soil bacteria. Chlorogenic acid (CGA), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), and protocatechuic acid (PKA) [...] Read more.
The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the effects of six phenolic acids applied individually and in combination at concentrations of 0–20 mM on Ambrosia artemisiifolia and soil bacteria. Chlorogenic acid (CGA), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), and protocatechuic acid (PKA) were tested on both plants and bacteria, whereas p-coumaric (PCA), vanillic (VA), and ferulic (FA) acids were tested only on soil bacteria. The estimated EC50 for radicle inhibition were 4.9 ± 0.1 mM for PHBA, 4.1 ± 0.7 mM for CGA, 6.6 ± 0.7 mM for PKA, 10.1 ± 0.9 mM for CGA + PHBA + PKA, 4.6 ± 0.4 mM for ferulic, vanillic, and p-coumaric acids (FA + VA + PCA), and 2.5 ± 0.3 mM for the combination of all six phenolic acids. Bacterial strains were less susceptible to individual phenolic acids compared to their combinations. PKA and CGA showed the strongest antibacterial activity, with PKA inhibiting 78% and killing 74% of strains at ≤10 mM, while CGA inhibited 61% and killed 57%. Conversely, PCA and VA had the weakest antibacterial effects, requiring ≥20 mM for complete inhibition. Among test genera, Stenotrophomonas, Bacillus, Peribacillus, and Pseudomonas were more susceptible than Enterobacter and Lelliottia. Subinhibitory concentrations of individual phenolic acids did not affect bacterial motility, except for PKA. The study suggests that VA, PCA and FA alone or combined and PHBA alone, appear promising for weed management. Reduced herbicide strategies may safely incorporate CGA and PKA at concentrations below 2.5 mM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Weed Control and Management)
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12 pages, 1164 KB  
Article
Effects of Increasing Microbial Fertilizers on Phenolic Acids in Fritillaria taipaiensis P. Y. Li Soil
by Wenwu Yang, Mei Huang, Dan Wang, Huanyu Wang, Yan Wu, Nong Zhou, Rui Yan, Li Wan, Shixin He and Qiangsheng Wu
Processes 2026, 14(7), 1037; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14071037 - 24 Mar 2026
Viewed by 229
Abstract
To investigate the effect of microbial fertilizers on phenolic acids in the cultivation soil of Fritillaria taipaiensis P. Y. Li, a quantitative approach utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography was applied to assess the phenolic acid levels in both rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soils of F. [...] Read more.
To investigate the effect of microbial fertilizers on phenolic acids in the cultivation soil of Fritillaria taipaiensis P. Y. Li, a quantitative approach utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography was applied to assess the phenolic acid levels in both rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soils of F. taipaiensis P. Y. Li under five different microbial fertilizer regimes. Detection of six key phenolic acids (p-hydroxybenzoic, p-coumaric, vanillic, syringic, chlorogenic, and ferulic) was consistent in all soil samples, regardless of rhizosphere status or inoculation treatment. Among these, chlorogenic acid had the highest content in both rhizosphere (17.651 μg/g, accounting for 55.51%) and non-rhizosphere (25.975 μg/g, accounting for 42.38%) soils, while vanillic acid (0.903 μg/g, accounting for 8.27% in rhizosphere soil) and p-hydroxybenzoic acid (0.086 μg/g, accounting for 1.34% in non-rhizosphere soil) were the lowest in their respective soils. Whereas the control (CK) showed higher levels, inoculation with Claroideoglomus claroideum resulted in a marked decrease in all six phenolic acids within the F. taipaiensis soil. In contrast, the other treatment groups exhibited higher overall phenolic acid content than CK. Correlation analysis indicated a subset of significant positive correlations among phenolic acids in the non-rhizosphere soil; by contrast, their intercorrelations within the rhizosphere soil were universally positive and significant. The phenolic acid content in F. taipaiensis soil was significantly altered by the application of different microbial fertilizers. Among them, C. claroideum was the most effective in reducing phenolic acid accumulation. Full article
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17 pages, 4696 KB  
Brief Report
Phytochemical Profiling and Pharmacoinformatics Reveal Proliverenol from Phaleria macrocarpa as a Multi-Target Hepatoprotective Modulator of MAFLD
by Fahrul Nurkolis, Aida Dama, Era Gorica, Antonello Santini and Raymond Rubianto Tjandrawinata
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(3), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19030491 - 17 Mar 2026
Viewed by 517
Abstract
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a highly prevalent chronic liver disorder driven by complex metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative mechanisms with no effective pharmacological therapy currently available. Although the multi-target natural product Proliverenol, derived from Phaleria macrocarpa pericarp, has shown hepatoprotective [...] Read more.
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a highly prevalent chronic liver disorder driven by complex metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative mechanisms with no effective pharmacological therapy currently available. Although the multi-target natural product Proliverenol, derived from Phaleria macrocarpa pericarp, has shown hepatoprotective potential in preclinical and early clinical studies, its molecular mechanisms in MAFLD remain unclear. Objective: This study aimed to elucidate the multi-target hepatoprotective mechanisms of Proliverenol in MAFLD by integrating untargeted phytochemical profiling, network pharmacology, and molecular docking approaches. Methods: Untargeted LC–HRMS/MS analysis was performed to characterize the phytochemical composition of Proliverenol (Veprolin™). Identified compounds were subjected to target fishing, followed by protein–protein interaction (PPI) network construction, cluster analysis, and functional enrichment (GO and KEGG). Key MAFLD-related targets were further validated using molecular docking against major signaling proteins implicated in inflammation, apoptosis, and metabolic regulation. Results: Fourteen bioactive compounds were annotated, dominated by flavonoids and organic acids, including several phenolic acid derivatives, with phalerin as the most abundant constituent. Network pharmacology identified overlapping targets between Proliverenol, MAFLD, and hepatotoxicity, forming a highly interconnected PPI network. Functional enrichment revealed significant involvement in apoptosis regulation, inflammatory signaling, oxidative stress response, lipid metabolism, and insulin resistance pathways. Molecular docking demonstrated strong binding affinities of several Proliverenol constituents—particularly cucumerin B, artoindonesianin P, and vitexin 2″-p-hydroxybenzoate—toward key targets including PTGS2, SIRT1, GSK3B, RELA, and MCL1, with affinities comparable to or exceeding those of reference drugs. Conclusions: Proliverenol exerts hepatoprotective effects through coordinated multi-target modulation of inflammatory, metabolic, and apoptotic pathways relevant to MAFLD. While these findings provide mechanistic insights based on integrative metabolomics and computational analyses, the absence of direct experimental validation represents an important limitation. Therefore, further in vitro, in vivo, and clinical investigations are warranted to confirm the predicted molecular interactions and therapeutic relevance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Network Pharmacology of Natural Products, 3rd Edition)
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16 pages, 1173 KB  
Proceeding Paper
Electrochemical Synthesis of Ortho- and Para-Hydroxybenzoic Acids Using CO2: Experimental and Simulation-Based Optimization
by Bekzod Eshkulov and Ruzimurod Jurayev
Eng. Proc. 2025, 117(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025117063 - 13 Mar 2026
Viewed by 264
Abstract
The electrochemical conversion of CO2 into value-added aromatic carboxylic acids represents an emerging route for carbon utilization. This work investigates the regioselective electrochemical synthesis of ortho- and para-hydroxybenzoic acids (o-HBA and p-HBA) from CO2 using a stirred batch cell, supported by [...] Read more.
The electrochemical conversion of CO2 into value-added aromatic carboxylic acids represents an emerging route for carbon utilization. This work investigates the regioselective electrochemical synthesis of ortho- and para-hydroxybenzoic acids (o-HBA and p-HBA) from CO2 using a stirred batch cell, supported by a phenomenological Aspen Plus (version 12) model to assess process-level behavior. Experiments conducted at −1.2 V vs. Ag/AgCl, 3 atm CO2, and 50 °C achieved yields of 58.4 ± 2.1% for o-HBA and 40.2 ± 1.6% for p-HBA, with a combined selectivity of 64.8%. Faradaic efficiencies were 76.2% (o-HBA) and 66.8% (p-HBA). A complete carbon balance, including dissolved inorganic carbon species, was established, demonstrating a single-pass CO2 conversion of 42.6% and an overall conversion of 74.8% when the recycle loop was considered. Aspen Plus simulations based on ELECNRTL(Electrolyte Non-Random Two-Liquid model) thermodynamics and RYield fitting reproduced qualitative trends but underpredicted yields (21% and 9% for o- and p-HBA, respectively), reflecting the limitations of non-kinetic modeling. Sensitivity analyses confirmed that both electrolysis temperature and electrolyte concentration substantially influence yields and purity. This work provides reproducible electrochemical data, process-level mass balances, and a validated phenomenological simulation framework for future scale-up studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Processes)
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27 pages, 1238 KB  
Article
Bromatological Profile of Fruits from Sorbus aucuparia and Crataegus monogyna: Polyphenol Bioaccessibility and Inhibitory Effect on Lipid Peroxidation in a Biological Model
by Iulia Varzaru, Arabela Elena Untea, Petru Alexandru Vlaicu, Alexandra Gabriela Oancea and Raluca Paula Turcu
Antioxidants 2026, 15(3), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15030349 - 11 Mar 2026
Viewed by 527
Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the bromatological profile of fruits from rowanberry (Sorbus aucuparia L.) and hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.), as well as the polyphenol bioaccessibility under in vitro simulated gastrointestinal conditions, antioxidant activity and the inhibition of lipid [...] Read more.
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the bromatological profile of fruits from rowanberry (Sorbus aucuparia L.) and hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.), as well as the polyphenol bioaccessibility under in vitro simulated gastrointestinal conditions, antioxidant activity and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation in a biological model (egg yolk). The fruits were demonstrated to be rich in bioactive compounds, containing comparable total vitamin E levels (~65 mg/kg), with α-tocopherol as the predominant isomer, and measurable amounts of xanthophylls, mainly lutein (20.19–21.69 μg/g), astaxanthin, and canthaxanthin. HPLC-DAD analysis identified 19 polyphenolic compounds, with catechin being the dominant compound in rowanberry fruits (4.36 mg/g), while epigallocatechin and catechin were the most abundant in hawthorn fruits. In vitro gastrointestinal digestion showed elevated intestinal bioaccessibility of hydroxybenzoic acids, with ellagic acid reaching ~96% in the intestinal phase of rowanberry fruits and ~109% in hawthorn fruits, indicating increased availability. In hawthorn fruits, flavanols exhibited greater stability and higher bioaccessibility, with catechin reaching 101% in the gastric phase, epicatechin remaining highly bioaccessible (98–97%), and epigallocatechin showing moderate bioaccessibility (24–50%). Both fruit extracts exhibited antioxidant activity, with hawthorn fruits showing significantly higher ABTS and DPPH scavenging capacities. Rowanberry and hawthorn fruits exhibited an inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation in yolk homogenates, reducing malondialdehyde formation to 37.19 mg/kg and 20.58 mg/kg from 50.79 mg/kg, respectively, although their efficacy remained lower than that of synthetic antioxidants. The findings of this study indicate that rowanberry and hawthorn fruits are promising sources of bioactive compounds, exhibiting significant antioxidant activity in biological models and supporting the potential valorization of these underutilized fruits for functional food and nutraceutical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Materials and Their Antioxidant Potential, 3rd Edition)
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14 pages, 1746 KB  
Article
Bioconversion of Organosolv Lignin by Rumen Bacterium: Isolation, Characterization and Metabolic Profiling
by Jéssica Pinheiro Silva, Jailson Novaes de Miranda, Sofia Chacon Prates Uchoa, Artur Carvalho Stranz, Rosália Loriano de Santana, Pedro Ricardo Vieira Hamann, Alonso R. Poma Ticona, Thomas Christopher Rhys Williams, Fernando Araripe Gonçalves Torres, Roberto Castellanos and Eliane Ferreira Noronha
Molecules 2026, 31(5), 903; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31050903 - 9 Mar 2026
Viewed by 484
Abstract
Residual lignin generated by pulp, paper, and biorefining industries is commonly burned for energy, despite its potential as a renewable source of aromatic compounds. Studies focusing on microbial lignin degradation contribute to lignin valorization and represent a sustainable strategy to enhance biomass circularity. [...] Read more.
Residual lignin generated by pulp, paper, and biorefining industries is commonly burned for energy, despite its potential as a renewable source of aromatic compounds. Studies focusing on microbial lignin degradation contribute to lignin valorization and represent a sustainable strategy to enhance biomass circularity. Here, we report the isolation of Klebsiella sp. IL2_9 from a ruminal consortium and demonstrate its ability to degrade and metabolize organosolv lignin. After 24 h of cultivation, the strain removed 22% of the initial lignin content. FTIR analysis revealed alterations in functional groups associated with guaiacyl and syringyl units, indicating structural modification of the polymer. GC–MS analyses further showed the consumption of lignin-derived aromatics, including vanillin, 2-aminobenzoic acid, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, along with the formation of vanillyl alcohol and phenyllactic acid derivatives. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of Klebsiella sp. IL2_9 as a promising biotechnological candidate for lignin valorization under anaerobic conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Chemistry Strategies for Biomass Valorization)
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22 pages, 1252 KB  
Article
Phytochemistry and In Vitro Bioactivities of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. Leaves: Influence of Solvent Polarity, Antioxidant Properties, and α-Amylase Inhibition
by Rayene Bouaita, Randa Djemil, Samira Bouhalit, Sabrina Lekmine, Ouided Benslama, Saber Boutellaa, Nabil Touzout, Gema Nieto, Ivan Mustać, Gabrijel Ondrašek and Muhammad Imtiaz Rashid
Molecules 2026, 31(5), 861; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31050861 - 5 Mar 2026
Viewed by 587
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of solvent polarity on extraction yield, phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and α-amylase inhibition of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. leaf extracts to evaluate their antidiabetic potential. Extraction yields varied with solvent polarity, with the hydroethanolic extract showing the highest (18.00%) [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effect of solvent polarity on extraction yield, phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and α-amylase inhibition of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. leaf extracts to evaluate their antidiabetic potential. Extraction yields varied with solvent polarity, with the hydroethanolic extract showing the highest (18.00%) and n-hexane the lowest (0.05%) yield. The n-butanol and ethyl acetate fractions contained the most phenolics (309.05 and 290.97 mg GAE/g), ethyl acetate was the richest in flavonoids (102.11 mg QE/g), and tannins were concentrated in dichloromethane (66.24 mg CE/g). HPLC revealed solvent-specific profiles: rutin and gallic acid dominated in n-butanol, quercetin in ethyl acetate, and 4-hydroxybenzoic and ferulic acids in dichloromethane, while chicoric acid appeared in hydroethanolic and n-hexane extracts. Antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP) showed strong activity in polar extracts, particularly hydroethanolic and ethyl acetate fractions. The n-hexane extract exhibited the highest α-amylase inhibition (IC50 = 36.70 µg/mL), surpassing acarbose (IC50 = 126.14 µg/mL), while other fractions were inactive (IC50 > 400 µg/mL). Molecular docking highlighted rutin, chlorogenic acid, and chicoric acid as potential enzyme binders. These findings demonstrate the chemical diversity and significant bioactivities of E. angustifolia leaves, supporting their potential as natural antidiabetic agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds in Foods and Their By-Products)
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12 pages, 3106 KB  
Article
Synthesis of Benzocyclobutene-Capping Liquid Crystalline Poly(ester imide)s with Low Coefficient of Thermal Expansion and Dielectric Constant
by Shengtao Pan, Wenhu Wu, Xinfang Wang, Huan Guan, Huaguang Yu, Jiyan Liu, Zuogang Huang and Xueqing Liu
Polymers 2026, 18(5), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18050604 - 28 Feb 2026
Viewed by 485
Abstract
Liquid crystalline poly(ester imide)s (LCPEIs) were synthesized by solution polymerization from 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HBA), 6-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid (HNA) and N-(3-carboxyphenyl)-4-hydroxyphthalimide (3-CHP), with the capping groups of benzocyclobutene (BCB)-containing compounds (BCB-HP for phenolic hydroxyl group and BCB-CP for aromatic carboxylic acid). Subsequent cross-linking of [...] Read more.
Liquid crystalline poly(ester imide)s (LCPEIs) were synthesized by solution polymerization from 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HBA), 6-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid (HNA) and N-(3-carboxyphenyl)-4-hydroxyphthalimide (3-CHP), with the capping groups of benzocyclobutene (BCB)-containing compounds (BCB-HP for phenolic hydroxyl group and BCB-CP for aromatic carboxylic acid). Subsequent cross-linking of the BCB capping groups upon hot pressing afforded the cured LCPEI films. Optimal properties of these films were achieved by adjusting the capping BCB-HP/BCB-CP contents.These LCPEIs showed favorable thermal properties with a relatively high glass transition temperature (Tg, 137–167 °C) and low melting temperature (Tm, 186–194 °C). With the increase in BCB capping content, the tensile modulus, tensile strength, and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) exhibited a non-linear tendency of first decreasing and then increasing. LCPEI-3.0 (3 mol% BCB) showed optimal performance: a relatively low CTE (20 × 10−6 K−1), a relatively high storage modulus (2.55 GPa), a moderate tensile modulus (2.65 GPa), a relatively low dielectric constant (Dk = 3.17) with low dielectric loss (Df = 0.0034) at 10 GHz, and excellent hydrophobicity (water contact angle = 133°). This improvement embodies an effective strategy to combine advantages of polyester, polyimide, and benzocyclobutene to achieve favorable and excellent comprehensive properties for convenient processability and practical application prospects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Membranes and Films)
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26 pages, 1477 KB  
Article
Host–Pathogen–Biocontrol Interactions: Effects of Bacillus velezensis on the Suppression of Black Rot Disease in Cabbage cv. Futoški
by Nataša Stanojević, Bojana Živanović, Aleksandra Jelušić, Danijel Milinčić, Dragana Bartolić, Ana Sedlarević Zorić, Mirjana Pešić, Sonja Veljović Jovanović and Sonja Milić Komić
Agriculture 2026, 16(5), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture16050544 - 28 Feb 2026
Viewed by 413
Abstract
Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc), the causal agent of black rot, has a significant impact on cabbage production worldwide. The goal of this research was to evaluate the effect of preventive foliar treatments with Bacillus velezensis strain RD-FC 88 on the [...] Read more.
Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc), the causal agent of black rot, has a significant impact on cabbage production worldwide. The goal of this research was to evaluate the effect of preventive foliar treatments with Bacillus velezensis strain RD-FC 88 on the primary and secondary metabolism of Xcc-infected cabbage cv. Futoški plants. Special attention was given to measuring metabolites’ changes, aiming to determine the influence of the applied biocontrol treatment on the development of plant immune response and resistance to pathogen. This study reports the first comprehensive biochemical and physiological analysis of the interaction between host plant, biocontrol strain and pathogen, thus providing novel insight into black rot management. Pathogen inoculation caused a significant decrease in the majority of measured metabolites, including most free amino acids (Gln, Ala, BCAA), phenolics, and glucosinolates. Preventive application of B. velezensis strain in Xcc-infected plants restored the levels of aromatic amino acids, Asp, Glu, Leu, Val, and Ala to control values. A similar pattern was observed in aliphatic glucosinolates sinigrin and glucoiberin, as well as for the indolic glucosinolate 4-methoxy-glucobrassicin. Additionally, increased accumulation of hydroxybenzoic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, and kaempferol derivatives was also observed in the plants treated with the biocontrol strain and subsequently infected with Xcc, compared to plants solely infected with Xcc. The obtained results imply that the RD-FC 88 strain holds potential as an efficient priming agent, capable of stimulating cabbage cv. Futoški defense responses and enhancing its resistance to Xcc. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Protection, Diseases, Pests and Weeds)
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21 pages, 1806 KB  
Article
Polyphenolic and Mineral Composition of Functional Foods Based on Rape Honey and Dried Fruits
by Elisabeta-Irina Geană, Claudia Sandru, Cornelia Carmen Abalaru, Mihaiela Cornea-Cipcigan and Rodica Margaoan
Molecules 2026, 31(5), 802; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31050802 - 27 Feb 2026
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Abstract
Honey’s medicinal properties are largely attributed to its antioxidant activity, mainly derived from flavonoids, phenolic acids, and their derivatives. Fruit berries, such as goji berries, sea buckthorn, and black currant, are particularly rich in vitamins, phenolic compounds, and minerals, providing high nutritional and [...] Read more.
Honey’s medicinal properties are largely attributed to its antioxidant activity, mainly derived from flavonoids, phenolic acids, and their derivatives. Fruit berries, such as goji berries, sea buckthorn, and black currant, are particularly rich in vitamins, phenolic compounds, and minerals, providing high nutritional and pharmacological value. Enrichment of rapeseed honey with dried fruits significantly increased total phenolic content, with the highest value observed in honey containing goji berries (111.221 ± 20.551 mg GAE/100 g), followed by black currant (96.477 ± 31.053 mg GAE/100 g) and sea buckthorn (90.724 ± 19.72 mg GAE/100 g), compared to control honey (49.681 ± 14.44 mg GAE/100 g). Antioxidant activity, assessed by multiple assays, was markedly enhanced in functional foods based on rape honey and dried fruits, particularly those with black currant, followed by goji berries and sea buckthorn. Romanian rapeseed honey contained phenolic acids such as gallic, chlorogenic, 4-hydroxybenzoic, and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acids, and flavonoids including quercetin and naringin. Functional food based on rape honey and goji berries (GBH) showed the highest levels of chlorogenic and gallic acids, epicatechin, and rutin, while functional food based on rape honey and sea buckthorn (SBH) was rich in naringin and resveratrol. Functional food based on rape honey and black currant (BCH) exhibited elevated gallic acid and rutin. Potassium and magnesium were the predominant minerals in all samples. Overall, berry enrichment enhances the nutritional and antioxidant profile of honey, supporting immune function and general health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activity and Chemical Composition of Honeybee Products)
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22 pages, 2432 KB  
Article
Gluten-Free White Quinoa Flour Exhibits Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity
by Ioana Ferențiu, Tiberia Ioana Pop, Alina Elena Pârvu, Andra Diana Cecan, Dinu Bolunduț, Marcel Pârvu, Florica Ranga, Ciprian Ovidiu Dalai, Mădălina Țicolea, Anca Elena But and Raluca Maria Pop
Molecules 2026, 31(4), 736; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31040736 - 21 Feb 2026
Viewed by 600
Abstract
Gluten-free foods may help address oxidative stress and inflammation linked to gluten-related disorders. This study characterized the phytochemical profile of a 70% ethanolic extract from commercial white quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) flour (Peru) and evaluated its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in vitro [...] Read more.
Gluten-free foods may help address oxidative stress and inflammation linked to gluten-related disorders. This study characterized the phytochemical profile of a 70% ethanolic extract from commercial white quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) flour (Peru) and evaluated its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in vivo in a rat model of acute inflammation. Total polyphenols and flavonoids were quantified spectrophotometrically, while individual phenolics were profiled by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS. Antioxidant capacity was assessed in vitro using DPPH, FRAP, H2O2, and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging assays. For in vivo testing, male Wistar rats received for 10 days quinoa extract (100%—1 g/mL, 50–0.5 g/mL, or 25–0.25 g/mL) either therapeutically (after turpentine-induced inflammation) or prophylactically (before induction), with diclofenac and Trolox as reference controls; systemic oxidative stress (TOS, TAC, OSI, AOPP, MDA, NO, 3-NT, total thiols) and inflammatory mediators (NF-κB p65, IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1, IL-10) were measured by spectrophotometry/ELISA and explored multivariately by PCA. Quinoa extract contained measurable phenolic and flavonoid levels (TPC 1.25 mg GAE/g d.w.; TFC 68.5 mg QE/100 g d.w.) and was dominated by flavonoid glycosides and hydroxybenzoic acids. It showed strong radical-scavenging/reducing activity in vitro. In vivo, the extract dose-dependently attenuated turpentine-induced nitro-oxidative stress and reduced key pro-inflammatory markers (notably NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-18, and caspase-1), in several endpoints matching or exceeding diclofenac/Trolox effects, while IL-10 was largely unchanged. These findings support white quinoa flour extract as a phytochemical-rich, gluten-free ingredient with promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, warranting further translational investigation. Full article
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