Search Results (468)

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), is the leading cause of death worldwide, driven by factors like oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid metabolism disorders. Although phenolic compounds such as Tyrosol (Tyr) and Hydroxytyrosol (HTyr) found in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) have shown promising antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, their specific roles in modulating oxidative stress biomarkers and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) functionality in elderly populations, especially in those with prior myocardial infarction, are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of EVOO phenolic compounds on oxidative stress biomarkers and HDL functionality, and related metabolic outcomes in both healthy and post-myocardial infarction (post-MI) elderly individuals. This pilot randomized clinical trial study included healthy and post-MI participants aged 65–85 years. Participants in each group were randomly assigned to consume 25 mL per day of one of three types of olive oils: high phenolic (HTyr/Tyr) extra virgin olive oil (HP-EVOO), extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), or refined olive oil (ROO) for a period of 26 weeks. Blood samples were collected at baseline and post-intervention to assess key biomarkers. Plasma levels of (poly)phenols, malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (FRAP), lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase activity (LCAT), and serum paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) activity were measured. A total of 34 individuals completed the study (mean age: 74 years). Baseline characteristics, including sex, age, body mass index (BMI), weight, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, did not differ significantly between the two groups. A significant increase in both FRAP levels and PON-1 activity was observed in post-MI participants following HP-EVOO consumption compared to baseline (p = 0.014). No significant changes were observed in MDA levels, LCAT activity, or plasma (poly)phenols. These results indicate that HP-EVOO may enhance antioxidant capacity, particularly FRAP and PON-1 activity, in elderly post-MI individuals. The observed differences between groups suggest that underlying cardiometabolic status may influence the response to olive oil phenolic compounds. Further studies are needed to explore the long-term cardiovascular effects. Full article

Anthocyanins (ACNs), characterized by their polyhydroxy structures, exhibit high susceptibility to external environmental factors, which significantly limits their application in the food and industrial sectors. To enhance the stability of anthocyanins, anthocyanin nanoliposomes (ACN-NLs) were developed, with encapsulation efficiency, particle size and zeta potential serving as key evaluation parameters. Furthermore, through layer-by-layer self-assembly and electrostatic interactions, ACN-NLs were modified using synanthrin (SY) and pea protein isolate (PPI). Consequently, PPI-modified ACN-NLs (PPI-ACN-NLs) and SY-PPI-modified ACN-NLs (SY-PPI-ACN-NLs) were successfully synthesized. In this study, the structural characteristics of liposomes were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), their in vitro digestibility was evaluated, and their stability under different temperatures, light conditions, and simulated food system conditions was assessed. The results demonstrated that when the mass ratio of soybean lecithin to cholesterol, soybean lecithin to anhydrous ethanol, and drug-to-lipid ratio were set at 5:1, 3:100, and 3:10, respectively, with an ACN concentration of 4 mg/mL, a pea protein solution with pH 3.0, a PPI concentration of 10 mg/mL, and an SY concentration of 8 mg/mL, the prepared ACN-NLs, PPI-ACN-NLs, and SY-PPI-ACN-NLs exhibited optimal performance. Their respective encapsulation efficiencies were 52.59 ± 0.24%, 83.80 ± 0.43%, and 90.38 ± 0.24%; average particle sizes were 134.60 ± 0.76 nm, 213.20 ± 0.41 nm, and 246.60 ± 0.24 nm zeta potentials were −32.4 ± 0.75 mV, −27.46 ± 0.69 mV, and −16.93 ± 0.31 mV. The changes in peak shape observed via X-ray diffraction (XRD), in vitro digestion profiles, and alterations in anthocyanin release rates under different conditions collectively indicated that the modification of ACN-NLs using SY and PPI enhanced the protective effect on the ACNs, improving their biological activity, and providing a robust foundation for the practical application of ACNs. Full article

Quercetin (Que) is widely recognized for its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties; however, its clinical potential remains limited due to poor solubility and low oral bioavailability. Nasal powders have emerged as a promising strategy to overcome these limitations, taking advantage of nose-to-brain delivery, offering a direct, non-invasive route to the central nervous system while bypassing first-pass metabolism. This study aims to extend previous work by systematically investigating the impact of different preparation methods (spray drying vs. lyophilization) and the incorporation of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and mannitol/lecithin microparticles (MLMPs) on the physicochemical characteristics, structural properties, and in vitro diffusion behavior of HPβCD-based nasal powder formulations of Que. Thermal behavior and stability were analyzed using TGA, while morphology and particle distribution were assessed via Scanning Electron Microscopy. In vitro diffusion studies using Franz cells and regenerated cellulose membranes were conducted under simulated nasal conditions. Among all tested formulations, the spray-dried HPβCD/Que powder (F4) showed the highest permeation (0.11 ± 0.01 mg/cm² at 120 min). The inclusion of HPMC improved thermal stability but reduced Que diffusion, likely due to increased viscosity and matrix formation. Blending with MLMPs enhanced powder flow and dose placement, although it modestly reduced diffusion efficiency. Overall, this study highlights the potential of HPβCD-based spray-dried powders for nasal Que delivery and demonstrates how HPMC and MLMPs can be strategically employed to tailor performance characteristics. Full article

This study analyzed the compression isotherms of 7β-alkyl cholic acid derivatives and compared them to those of cholic and deoxycholic acids to elucidate their orientation and molecular interactions (acidic aqueous substrate—pH 2; NaCl concentration—3 M; temperature—T = 298.15 K). It was found that the compression isotherm of the 7β-octyl derivative of cholic acid in the monomolecular layer is most similar to the compression isotherm of deoxycholic acid. In 7β-alkyl derivatives of cholic acid, the hydrophobic interaction energy in their aggregates from a monomolecular film increased with the length of the alkyl chain. However, this energy did not increase linearly with C atoms, suggesting the existence of a conformational equilibrium. In binary mixtures of the tested bile acids and lecithin, only the 7β-octyl derivatives of cholic acid and deoxycholic acid had orientations in which the steroid skeleton had a “vertical” position, i.e., only the C3 OH group was immersed in the aqueous substrate, which resulted in the maximum hydrophobic interaction with lecithin. In 7β-octyl derivatives, part of the octyl chain probably also participated in the interaction with lecithin. In 7β-propyl and 7β-butyl derivatives, C7 alkyl groups sterically shielded the C7 α-axial OH group. However, in the 7β-ethyl derivative the C7 OH group was not additionally sterically shielded, so this derivative, similarly to cholic acid, partially dissolved in the aqueous substrate after the collapse point. Full article

Background/Objectives: This research focuses on the development and optimization of polymer–lipid hybrid nanoparticles (PLHNs) using two grades of mPEG-PCL co-polymers in combination with DPPC and lecithin to address the biopharmaceutical challenges of acalabrutinib (ACP), a selective treatment for different hematological malignancies. Methods: Variations in the mPEG-to-ε-caprolactone ratio influenced both the molecular weight (Mw) of the synthesized co-polymers and their aqueous phase affinity. The ACP-loaded PLHNs (ACP-PLHNs) were optimized using a circumscribed central composite design. The in vivo studies were performed in Wistar rats. Results: The lipophilic mPEG-PCL (Mw = 9817.67 Da) resulted in PLHNs with a particle size of 155.91 nm and 40.08% drug loading, while the hydrophilic mPEG-PCL (Mw = 23,615.84 Da) yielded PLHNs with a relatively larger size (223.46 nm) and relatively higher drug loading (46.59%). The drug release profiles were polymer-grade dependent: lipophilic ACP-PLHNs (lACP-PLHNs) sustained release up to 30 h in pH 7.2 buffer, while hydrophilic ACP-PLHNs (hACP-PLHNs) completed release within 24 h. Stability studies showed greater stability for lACP-PLHNs, likely due to reduced molecular rearrangement from the chemically stable lipophilic co-polymer. Conclusions: Oral administration of both formulations exhibited a 2-fold (p < 0.001) improvement in the C_max and AUC_0-tlast and a 3.9-fold (p < 0.001) increase in the relatively oral bioavailability compared to the conventional ACP suspension in male wistar rats. Full article

In the present study, we developed a moxifloxacin (MXF)-encapsulated liposome-enriched alginate nanocomposite hydrogel coating. MXF was encapsulated in soy lecithin (SL:MXF:2:1) via the probe sonication method with an average efficiency of 80%. Two different manufacturing methods, including a micropipetting and a T-shaped microfluidic junction (TMJ) device technique, were used to incorporate the MXF-encapsulated liposomes into hydrogel matrices and layered as a coating on polymeric substrate material. Drug encapsulation and its incorporation into the hydrogel matrix significantly enhanced its stability and facilitated a prolonged drug release profile. A relatively rapid drug release was observed in the MXF-encapsulated liposome-loaded polymeric particulate layer developed via the micropipetting than the TMJ device technique. The findings confirmed sustained drug release behavior due to a hydrogel particulate structural uniformity conferred by the micromachine device, TMJ. Thus, these nanocomposite hydrogel coatings achieved can serve as a promising candidate for the treatment of ophthalmic or mucosal membrane infections. Full article

(1) Background: This study used a microfluidic approach to prepare paeonol (PAE) liposomes with oleanolic acid (PAE-ONLs) instead of cholesterol (PAE-CNLs), aiming to reduce cholesterol levels and enhance stability and anti-inflammatory activity. (2) Methods: The liposome formula was optimized, characterized, and tested for anti-inflammatory activities in zebrafish and RAW 264.7 macrophages, utilizing various stability and molecular interaction methods. (3) Results: The best PAE-ONL preparation conditions were 10.25 mg/mL of soy lecithin, 0.82 mg/mL of oleanolic acid, and 0.22% (wt%) of Tween 80, with an EE of 64.61 ± 0.42%. TEM confirmed the uniform spherical morphology, and FTIR confirmed that oleanolic acid was incorporated into the liposomes. PAE-ONLs showed better stabilities than PAE-CNLs. Molecular interaction results revealed that PAE-ONLs achieved a greater energy reduction, reaching −85.07 kJ/mol vs. the −62.64 kJ/mol of PAE-CNLs, with stable hydrogen bonding interactions. PAE-ONLs significantly reduced inflammatory cell migration in zebrafish and decreased NO, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β levels in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages at 20 μg/mL. A network pharmacology analysis showed that oleanolic acid and paeonol interacted with 45 and 11 anti-inflammatory targets, respectively, and their combination in PAE-ONLs enhanced their anti-inflammatory coverage. (4) Conclusions: PAE-ONLs, utilizing oleanolic acid as a cholesterol substitute, exhibit enhanced stability and superior anti-inflammatory effects. Full article

The low availability of phosphorus (P) in soil has become a critical factor limiting crop growth and agricultural productivity. This study aimed to isolate and evaluate a bacterial strain with high phosphate-solubilizing capacity to improve soil phosphorus utilization and promote crop growth. A phosphate-solubilizing bacterium, designated as YS-13, was isolated from farmland soil in Henan Province, China, and identified as Brevibacillus laterosporus based on morphological characteristics, physiological and biochemical traits, and 16S rDNA sequence analysis. Qualitative assessment using plate assays showed that strain YS-13 formed a prominent phosphate solubilization zone on organic and inorganic phosphorus media containing lecithin and calcium phosphate, with D/d ratios of 2.28 and 1.57, respectively. Quantitative evaluation using the molybdenum–antimony colorimetric method revealed soluble phosphorus concentrations of 21.24, 6.67, 11.73, and 17.05 mg·L⁻¹ when lecithin, ferric phosphate, calcium phosphate, and calcium phytate were used as phosphorus sources, respectively. The fermentation conditions for YS-13 were optimized through single-factor experiments combined with response surface methodology, using viable cell count as the response variable. The optimal conditions were determined as 34 °C, 8% inoculum volume, initial pH of 7.55, 48 h incubation, 5 g L⁻¹ NaCl, 8.96 g L⁻¹ glucose, and 8.86 g L⁻¹ peptone, under which the viable cell count reached 6.29 × 10⁸ CFU mL⁻¹, consistent with the predicted value (98.33%, p < 0.05). The plant growth-promoting effect of YS-13 was further validated through a pot experiment using Triticum aestivum cv. Jinchun 6. Growth parameters, including plant height, fresh biomass, root length, root surface area, root volume, and phosphorus content in roots and stems, were measured. The results demonstrated that YS-13 significantly enhanced wheat growth, with a positive correlation between bacterial concentration and growth indicators, although the growth-promoting effect plateaued at higher concentrations. This study successfully identified a high-efficiency phosphate-solubilizing strain, YS-13, and established optimal culture conditions and bioassay validation, laying a foundation for its potential application as a microbial inoculant and providing theoretical and technical support for reducing phosphorus fertilizer inputs and advancing sustainable agriculture. Full article

Eogystia hippophaecola (Hua, Chou, Fang & Chen, 1990) is a major borer pest of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.), and during its four-year growth period, its feeding site shifts progressively from the trunks to the roots, establishing a complex mutualistic relationship with the host. The factors driving the host-shifting behavior of E. hippophaecola larvae remain unclear. In this study, we compared the nutrient composition of the roots and trunks, measured the activity of metabolizing enzymes in E. hippophaecola, and analyzed secondary metabolites in both the roots and trunks following infestation using LC-MS. Sugars, proteins, fats, and free amino acids were more abundant in the roots, and larvae feeding on this part exhibited a stronger resistance. Non-targeted metabolomics identified 8493 metabolites in total. The trunks exhibited 394 DEMs compared to the roots (223 up-regulated and 171 down-regulated). Lipids and lipid-like molecules represented more than two-thirds of the total, primarily involved in steroid biosynthesis, linoleic acid metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism. The significant down-regulation of key compounds, such as lecithin and linoleate, suggests that resistance metabolism is less pronounced in the trunks compared to the roots. In summary, the host-shifting behavior of E. hippophaecola larvae is primarily driven by a combination of the host’s nutritional conditions and defense mechanisms. Full article

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a critical global health challenge, requiring innovative strategies to combat resistant bacterial strains. Cymbopogon essential oils (EOs) are promising natural antimicrobial agents. Methods: The EO of Cymbopogon commutatus was extracted by hydrodistillation from fresh aerial parts and compared to commercial EOs from C. citratus, C. nardus, and C. winterianus. Antibacterial activity was evaluated against seven bacterial strains (two Gram-positive and five Gram-negative). Both water-soluble fractions and liposome-encapsulated formulations were tested. Liposomes were prepared using soybean lecithin, and their stability was assessed by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The chemical composition of the pure EOs, water-soluble fractions and non-water-soluble fractions was analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Results: Liposome encapsulation improved EO solubility in aqueous media and significantly enhanced antibacterial efficacy, reducing minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values compared to the water-soluble fractions (MICs ≥ 25%). Among the tested formulations, the liposome containing C. citratus EO exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC: 0.04%) followed by liposomes with C. nardus and C. commutatus (MIC: 0.08%). Against Enterococcus faecalis, the most effective formulation was the liposome containing C. winterianus EO (MIC: 0.02%), followed by C. citratus (MIC: 0.08%). The liposome formulated with C. winterianus maintained its particle size over 72 h without phase separation. GC-MS analysis revealed distinct phytochemical profiles: C. commutatus EO was rich in piperitone (73.9%) and C. citratus was rich in (Z)-(3,3-Dimethyl)-cyclohexylideneacetaldehyde (39.9%) and citral (32.5%), while C. nardus and C. winterianus were dominated by geraniol (21.5%) and citronellal (30.8%), respectively. Notably, piperitone, the major compound in C. commutatus EO, exhibited strong antibacterial activity against S. aureus (MIC of <0.04%). Conclusions: These findings support the potential of liposome-encapsulated Cymbopogon EOs as an effective and sustainable strategy to address AMR. This study provides a foundation for the development of plant-based antimicrobial formulations with improved efficacy. Full article

Background: Sufficient choline supply is essential for tissue functions via phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin within membranes and secretions like bile, lipoproteins and surfactant, and in one-carbon metabolism via betaine. Choline requirements are linked to age and genetics, folate and cobalamin via betaine, and arachidonic (ARA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acid transport via the phosphatidylcholine moiety of lipoproteins. Groups at risk of choline deficiency include preterm infants, children with cystic fibrosis (CF) and patients dependent on parenteral nutrition. Fortifiers, formula and supplements may differently impact their choline supply. Objective: To evaluate added amounts of choline, folate, cobalamin, ARA and DHA in fortifiers, supplements and formula used in pediatric care from product files. Methods: Nutrient contents from commonly used products, categorized by age and patient groups, were obtained from public sources. Data are shown as medians and interquartile ranges. Results: 105 nutritional products including fortifiers, formula and products for special indications were analyzed. Choline concentrations were comparable in preterm and term infant formulas (≤6 months) (31.9 [27.6–33.3] vs. 33.3 [30.8–35.2] mg/100 kcal). Products for toddlers, and patients with CF, kidney or Crohn’s disease showed Choline levels from 0 to 39 mg/100 kcal. Several products contain milk components and lecithin-based emulsifiers potentially increasing choline content beyond indicated amounts. Conclusions: Choline addition is standardized in formula for term and preterm infants up to 6 months, but not in other products. Choline content may be higher in several products due to non-declared sources. The potential impact of insufficient choline supply in patients at risk for choline deficiency suggests the need for biochemical analysis of products. Full article

Quercetin, a natural flavonoid, present in various vegetables and fruits, has garnered increasing attraction for its potential antiallergic properties. Its broad-spectrum activity depends on its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant effects, which target the critical pathways involved in type 2-driven allergic inflammation. Quercetin inhibits mast cell degranulation, reduces the production of histamine and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and restores homeostasis of the immune system by modulating the Th1/Th2 and Treg/Th17 balances. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help to dampen oxidative stress, a critical factor in the pathophysiology of allergic diseases. In vitro studies have consistently demonstrated quercetin’s ability to suppress allergic reactions. In contrast, in vivo studies, particularly in murine models of allergic rhinitis, have confirmed its efficacy in relieving symptoms (such as nasal itching, sneezing, rhinorrhea, and congestion) and dampening type 2 mucosal inflammation. Preclinical evidence also supports its therapeutic potential in asthma, conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, and food allergies. However, human studies are still scarce, as only two clinical trials investigated quercetin as a monotherapy. Both studies reported promising results, including symptom reduction and improved quality of life, though larger, randomized trials are needed to validate these findings. Some other studies have investigated multicomponent products that also contain quercetin. This review aimed to report and discuss the most recent in vitro and in vivo evidence on quercetin’s application in allergic models. It also provides a comprehensive overview of human studies, highlighting its potential as an agent in food supplements to manage patients with allergic diseases. Moreover, this review introduces a new quercetin phospholipids formulation that may represent a keystone in clinical use. The literature search was based on a PubMed consultation considering the most recent (last five years) publications using the keywords “quercetin and allergic disease” and “quercetin and immune system”. Full article

Lecithinized superoxide dismutase (PC-SOD) was found to have a significantly improved half-life in the bloodstream and better pharmacological effects compared with unmodified SOD. However, there is no direct evidence that parenterally administered PC-SOD decreases superoxide levels in blood and tissues in vivo. In the present study, we investigated the ability of PC-SOD versus unmodified SOD as a superoxide scavenger in mice subjected to oxidative stress. Experiments were performed on a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mouse model of acute inflammation known to be accompanied by the overproduction of superoxide in the blood. The mice were divided into four groups: untreated (healthy; n = 6), LPS-treated (n = 7), LPS/SOD-treated (n = 6), and LPS/PC-SOD-treated (n = 7) mice. SOD and PC-SOD were injected intravenously. Blood samples were collected at four time intervals and analyzed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy using a nitroxide probe, 3-carbamoyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrrolidine-1-oxyl (CMP). The following effects were observed: (i) In the blood of healthy mice, the EPR signal was significantly lower compared with the control (p < 0.001) and LPS-treated mice (p < 0.01); (ii) in the blood of LPS-treated mice, the EPR signal was identical to that of the control; and (iii) in the blood of LPS/SOD-treated mice collected immediately after enzyme injection, the EPR signal was significantly lower compared with the control (p < 0.01) and LPS-treated mice (p < 0.05). However, the effect disappeared in the samples collected 30 min and 1 h after enzyme injection. (iv) In LPS/PC-SOD-treated mice, the EPR signal was significantly lower compared with the control (p < 0.01) and LPS-treated mice (p < 0.05), even in the blood samples collected within 1 h after enzyme injection. The data indicate that the blood of healthy mice was characterized by a high reducing capacity, while the blood of LPS-treated mice was characterized by a high oxidative capacity. SOD decreased superoxide production immediately after enzyme injection. However, the effect was short-lived and disappeared within 30 min. PC-SOD effectively decreased superoxide production in the bloodstream of LPS-treated mice and restored the redox balance to the control level even two hours after enzyme injection. The effects of PC-SOD were more pronounced and long-lasting compared with those of SOD. The possible reason is the longer half-life of PC-SOD in the bloodstream, its better stability, and its slower clearance from the circulation due to the increased hydrophobicity of the enzyme and its interaction with plasma proteins. The data are discussed in the context of recent clinical trials showing that PC-SOD is a promising pharmaceutical product for adjuvant therapy of a variety of pathologies accompanied by inflammation, redox imbalance, and oxidative stress. Full article

Protein-based films have gained attention due to their potential as biodegradable packaging. This study investigated the properties and characteristics of film-forming emulsions (FFEs) and their films based on co-precipitated protein (CPP) from Bambara groundnut protein isolate (BGPI) and acid-soluble collagen (ASC) emulsified with different levels of basil essential oil (BE) (50%, 75% and 100%) and soy lecithin (SL) (25% and 50%). The oil droplet size, stability, and distribution of FFEs were characterized. Larger oil droplet sizes, a higher flocculation factor, and a higher coalescence index were observed for FFEs emulsified with higher levels of BE and SL. All FFEs had uniform oil distribution. Films from different FFEs were formed and analyzed. Films containing BE and SL had higher thickness, elongation at break, b*-value, water vapor and UV-light barrier properties, but a lower tensile strength than the control film. Emulsion films exhibited smooth surface and rough cross-section and were heat-sealable. FTIR spectra indicated lower protein interactions in the emulsion film containing higher levels of BE and SL. The film containing 100% BE had the highest antioxidant activities, regardless of the SL level used. The emulsification of BE and SL at various levels thus influenced the properties and characteristics of the FFE and emulsion film. Full article

The aim of this study was to investigate the encapsulation of natural food dyes incorporated into liposomes in terms of particle size, rheological and colour properties, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. The liposomes contained dye substances of anthocyanins from freeze-dried raspberry powder (R), copper complexes of chlorophyllins (C), or commercial-grade β-carotene (B). The phospholipid envelope was composed of sunflower lecithin and carboxymethylcellulose sodium salt as a surface stabilizer treated by high-pressure homogenization. The median particle diameter of R and C systems fluctuated around 200 nm, while B systems showed a broader range of 165–405 nm. The rheological results demonstrated a specific flow behaviour pattern dependent on the rotational shear applied, indicating a flow-induced structural change in the dispersions. Samples were characterized by a translucent profile with relatively high lightness, accompanied by a hue angle (h*) typical of the dye encapsulated. The zeta potential was approx. −30 mV, showing electrokinetically stabilized dispersions. The encapsulation efficiency (EE) varied significantly, with the highest EE observed for anthocyanins, ranging from 36.17 to 84.61%. The chlorophyll encapsulation was the least effective, determined in the range between 1.82 and 16.03%. Based on the suitability index, optimal liposomal formulations were evaluated by means of the Central Composite Design (CCD). Full article