Search Results (9,818)

In this study, astaxanthin, which has previously been shown to have antiviral effects, was examined for its dose-dependent potency to inhibit cellular SARS-CoV-2 infections. Naturally occurring astaxanthin is obtained and orally administered as ASX-oleoresin, a composition of different astaxanthin fatty acid esters. We therefore hypothesized that the compound’s beneficial effects are not only related to astaxanthin. Thus, a “green” algae extract (i.e., poor astaxanthin content < 0.2%; ASX^p) of the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis, as well as an astaxanthin-rich algae extract (astaxanthin content = 20%; ASX^r), were tested in in vitro cellular viral infection assays. Thereby, it was found that both extracts reduced viral infections significantly. As a potential mode of inhibitory action, the binding of ASX-oleoresin to the viral spike protein was investigated by isothermal fluorescence titration, revealing binding affinities of Kd = 1.05 µM for ASX^r and Kd = 1.42 µM for ASX^p. Based on our data, we conclude that several ASX-oleoresin fractions from H. pluvialis exhibit antiviral activity, which extends beyond the known antioxidant activity of astaxanthin. From a molecular dynamic simulation of ASX-oleoresin, fatty acid domains could be considered as activity-chaperoning factors of ASX. Therefore, microalgae biomass should be considered in the future for further antiviral activities. Full article

Seeds of Cucurbitaceae crops represent a promising yet underexplored source of bioactive compounds with potential applications beyond nutrition, particularly in the cosmetics industry. This review examines the seeds of Citrullus lanatus (watermelon), Cucumis melo (melon), and Cucurbita pepo (pumpkin), focusing on their biochemical composition and evaluating their functional value in natural cosmetic development. Although these fruits are widely consumed, industrial processing generates substantial seed by-products that are often discarded. These seeds are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and phytochemicals, positioning them as sustainable raw materials for value-added applications. The incorporation of seed-derived extracts into cosmetic formulations offers multiple skin and hair benefits, including antioxidant activity, hydration, and support in managing conditions such as hyperpigmentation, acne, and psoriasis. They also contribute to hair care by improving oil balance, reducing frizz, and enhancing strand nourishment. However, challenges such as environmental instability and low dermal permeability of seed oils have prompted interest in nanoencapsulation technologies to improve delivery, stability, and efficacy. This review summarizes current scientific findings and highlights the potential of Cucurbitaceae seeds as innovative and sustainable ingredients for cosmetic and personal care applications. Full article

With increasing interest in natural therapeutic strategies for skin aging, plant-derived compounds have gained attention for their potential to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. In this study, we investigated the anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects of flavonoids isolated from Cercidiphyllum japonicum using a tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-stimulated normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) model. The aerial parts of C. japonicum were extracted and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), leading to the identification of four major compounds: maltol, chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid, and quercitrin. Each compound was evaluated for its antioxidant and anti-aging activities in TNF-α-stimulated NHDFs. Among them, ellagic acid exhibited the most potent biological activity and was selected for further mechanistic analysis. Ellagic acid significantly suppressed intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) secretion (both p < 0.001), while markedly increasing type I procollagen production (p < 0.01). Mechanistic studies demonstrated that ellagic acid inhibited TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), downregulated cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and upregulated heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a key antioxidant enzyme. Additionally, ellagic acid attenuated the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8), indicating its broad modulatory effects on oxidative and inflammatory pathways. Collectively, these findings suggest that ellagic acid is a promising plant-derived bioactive compound with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, offering potential as a therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of skin aging. Full article

Jabuticaba (Myrciaria jaboticaba (Vell.) O. Berg) peel is a native Brazilian fruit by-product recognized for its high anthocyanin (ANC) content and strong antioxidant potential, making it a valuable natural source for food applications. This study aimed to optimize the extraction and spray drying-based encapsulation of ANCs from the peels of Sabará jabuticaba. Extraction was performed using ethanol acidified with HCl (6 M) under varying conditions of pH (1.0–3.0), temperature (14–50 °C), and solvent volume (100–250 mL). The highest anthocyanin yield (328.13 mg/100 g dry basis) was achieved at pH 1.0, 50 °C, and 250 mL solvent volume. For encapsulation, gum arabic and maltodextrin were used as wall materials at different mass ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1 w/w). The 1:2 ratio (gum arabic/maltodextrin) resulted in the highest retention of anthocyanins (315.37 mg/100 g dry basis), with encapsulation efficiency of approximately 96%, low water activity (0.27), and reduced moisture content (3.6%). These characteristics are essential for ensuring product stability during storage. The optimized anthocyanin-rich microparticles present promising potential for application as natural colorants and functional ingredients in food formulations or as antioxidant carriers in pharmaceutical products. Full article

Background/Objectives: Curcumin (CUR) is well known for its therapeutic properties, particularly attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in managing chronic diseases such as arthritis. While CUR application for biomedical purposes is well known, the phytochemical has several restrictions given its poor water solubility, physicochemical instability, and low bioavailability. These limitations have led to innovative formulations, with nanocarriers emerging as a promising alternative. For this reason, this study aimed to address the potential advantages of associating CUR with nanocarrier systems in managing arthritis through a scoping review. Methods: A systematic literature search of preclinical (in vivo) and clinical studies was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (December 2024). General inclusion criteria include using CUR or natural derivatives in nano-based formulations for arthritis treatment. These elements lead to the question: “What is the impact of the association of CUR or derivatives in nanocarriers in treating arthritis?”. Results: From an initial 536 articles, 34 were selected for further analysis (31 preclinical investigations and three randomized clinical trials). Most studies used pure CUR (25/34), associated with organic (30/34) nanocarrier systems. Remarkably, nanoparticles (16/34) and nanoemulsions (5/34) were emphasized. The formulations were primarily presented in liquid form (23/34) and were generally administered to animal models through intra-articular injection (11/31). Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA) was the most frequently utilized among the various models to induce arthritis-like joint damage. The findings indicate that associating CUR or its derivatives with nanocarrier systems enhances its pharmacological efficacy through controlled release and enhanced solubility, bioavailability, and stability. Moreover, the encapsulation of CUR showed better results in most cases than in its free form. Nonetheless, most studies were restricted to the preclinical model, not providing direct evidence in humans. Additionally, inadequate information and clarity presented considerable challenges for preclinical evidence, which was confirmed by SYRCLE’s bias detection tools. Conclusions: Hence, this scoping review highlights the anti-arthritic effects of CUR nanocarriers as a promising alternative for improved treatment. Full article

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), a widely utilised brominated flame retardant, demonstrates toxicological effects in aquatic organisms. Tea polyphenols (TPs), natural compounds found in tea leaves, exhibit both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The kidney is one of the major metabolic organs in common carp and serves as a target organ for toxic substances. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of TPs in mitigating TBBPA-induced nephrotoxicity in common carp. Common carp were exposed to 0.5 mg/L TBBPA in water and/or fed a diet supplemented with 1 g/kg TPs for 14 days. In vitro, primary renal cells were treated with 60 μM TBBPA and/or 2.5 μg/L TPs for 24 h. Methods included histopathology, TUNEL assay for apoptosis, ROS detection, and molecular analyses. Antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) were quantified using ELISA kits. Results showed that TBBPA induced oxidative stress, and activated the ROS-PI3K/AKT-NF-κB pathway, thereby resulting in inflammatory responses. TBBPA upregulated apoptosis-related genes (Caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2) and induced apoptosis. TBBPA upregulated the expression of RIPK3/MLKL, thereby exacerbating necroptosis. TPs intervention significantly mitigated these effects by reducing ROS, suppressing NF-κB activation, and restoring antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT). Moreover, TPs attenuated apoptosis and necrosis in the carp kidney, thereby enhancing the survival ability and immunity of common carp. Full article

Quercetin, a natural polyphenolic flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-allergic properties, is extensively found in foods and holds significant importance for human health. In this study, a simple switch-off fluorescent sensor based on copper nanoclusters (Cu NCs) was proposed for the sensitive determination of quercetin. Glutathione acted as the reducing and protective agent in the synthesized process of Cu NCs via a facile, green one-pot method. As anticipated, the glutathione-capped Cu NCs (GSH-Cu NCs) exhibited favorable water solubility and ultrasmall size. The fluorescence property of GSH-Cu NCs was further enhanced with Al³⁺ ion through the aggregation-induced emission effect. When quercetin was present in the sample solution, the system exhibited effective fluorescence quenching, which was attributed to the internal filter effect. The GSH-Cu NCs/Al³⁺-based fluorescent sensor showed a good linear relationship to quercetin in the concentration range from 0.1 to 60 μM. A detection limit of 24 nM was obtained. Moreover, the constructed sensor was employed for the successful determination of quercetin in tea samples. Full article

Avocado (Persea americana), originally from Mesoamerica, has emerged as a focus of intense scientific and industrial interest due to its unique combination of nutritional richness, bioactive potential, and technological versatility. Its pulp, widely consumed across the globe, is notably abundant in monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, which can comprise over two-thirds of its lipid content. In addition, it provides significant levels of dietary fiber, fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K, carotenoids, tocopherols, and phytosterols like β-sitosterol. These constituents are consistently associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, glycemic regulatory, and cardioprotective effects, supported by a growing body of experimental and clinical evidence. This review offers a comprehensive and critical synthesis of the chemical composition and functional properties of avocado, with particular emphasis on its lipid profile, phenolic compounds, and phytosterols. It also explores recent advances in environmentally sustainable extraction techniques, including ultrasound-assisted and microwave-assisted processes, as well as the application of natural deep eutectic solvents. These technologies have demonstrated improved efficiency in recovering bioactives while aligning with the principles of green chemistry. The use of avocado-derived ingredients in nanostructured delivery systems and their incorporation into functional foods, cosmetics, and health-promoting formulations is discussed in detail. Additionally, the potential of native cultivars and the application of precision nutrition strategies are identified as promising avenues for future innovation. Taken together, the findings underscore the avocado’s relevance as a high-value matrix for sustainable development. Future research should focus on optimizing extraction protocols, clarifying pharmacokinetic behavior, and ensuring long-term safety in diverse applications. Full article

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are often seen solely as harmful byproducts of oxidative metabolism, yet evidence reveals their paradoxical roles in both promoting and inhibiting cancer progression. Despite advances, precise context-dependent mechanisms by which ROS modulate oncogenic signaling, therapeutic response, and tumor microenvironment dynamics remain unclear. Specifically, the spatial and temporal aspects of ROS regulation (i.e., the distinct effects of mitochondrial versus cytosolic ROS on the PI3K/Akt and NF-κB pathways, and the differential cellular outcomes driven by acute versus chronic ROS exposure) have been underexplored. Additionally, the specific contributions of ROS-generating enzymes, like NOX isoforms and xanthine oxidase, to tumor microenvironment remodeling and immune modulation remain poorly understood. This review synthesizes current findings with a focus on these critical gaps, offering novel mechanistic insights into the dualistic nature of ROS in cancer biology. By systematically integrating data on ROS source-specific functions and redox-sensitive signaling pathways, the complex interplay between ROS concentration, localization, and persistence is elucidated, revealing how these factors dictate the paradoxical support of tumor progression or induction of cancer cell death. Particular attention is given to antioxidant mechanisms, including NRF2-mediated responses, that may undermine the efficacy of ROS-targeted therapies. Recent breakthroughs in redox biosensors (i.e., redox-sensitive fluorescent proteins, HyPer variants, and peroxiredoxin–FRET constructs) enable precise, real-time ROS imaging across subcellular compartments. Translational advances, including redox-modulating drugs and synthetic lethality strategies targeting glutathione or NADPH dependencies, further highlight actionable vulnerabilities. This refined understanding advances the field by highlighting context-specific vulnerabilities in tumor redox biology and guiding more precise therapeutic strategies. Continued research on redox-regulated signaling and its interplay with inflammation and therapy resistance is essential to unravel ROS dynamics in tumors and develop targeted, context-specific interventions harnessing their dual roles. Full article

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

Resveratrol is a natural stilbene known for its wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects. However, its application in cosmetics and dermatology is limited by poor stability and bioavailability. Azelaic acid is a natural carboxylic acid employed in cosmetics for its tyrosinase inhibition activity and for cutaneous hyperpigmentation disorders. In this work, we report a concise chemoenzymatic procedure for the synthesis of a novel hybrid molecule combining acetylated resveratrol and azelaic acid. This methodology offers a valuable route for the development of new bioactive compounds for potential cosmetic and dermatological applications. Full article

The artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. subsp. scolymus) is an endemic perennial plant of the Mediterranean area commonly consumed as food. It is known since ancient times for its beneficial properties for human health, among which its antioxidant activity due to polyphenolics stands out. In the frame of our ongoing studies aiming to highlight the biodiversity and the chemodiversity of natural resources, we investigated the phenolic and saponin content of the cultivar “Carciofo di Procida” collected at Procida, an island of the Gulf of Naples (Italy). Along with the edible part of the immature flower, we included in our analyses the stem and the external bracts, generally discarded for food consuming or industrial preparations. The LCMS quali-quantitative profiling of polyphenols (including anthocyanins) and cynarasaponins of this cultivar is reported for the first time. In addition to antioxidant properties, we observed a significant cytotoxic activity due to extracts from external bracts against human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell lines with 43% of cell viability, after 24 h from the treatment (50 μg/mL), and less potent but appreciable effects also against human colorectal adenocarcinoma CaCo-2 cells. This suggests that the different metabolite composition may be responsible for the bioactivity of extracts obtained from specific parts of artichoke and foresees a possible exploitation of the discarded material as a source of beneficial compounds. Full article

Flavonoids constitute a broad class of naturally occurring chemical compounds classified as polyphenols, widely present in various plants, fruits, and vegetables. They share a common flavone backbone, composed of two aromatic rings (A and B) connected by a three-carbon bridge forming a heterocyclic ring (C). One representative flavonoid is chrysin, a compound found in honey, propolis, and passionflower (Passiflora spp.). Chrysin exhibits a range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotective, and anxiolytic effects. Its biological activity is primarily attributed to the presence of hydroxyl groups, which facilitate the neutralization of free radicals and the modulation of intracellular signaling pathways. Cellular uptake of chrysin and other flavonoids occurs mainly through passive diffusion; however, certain forms may be transported via specific membrane-associated carrier proteins. Despite its therapeutic potential, chrysin’s bioavailability is significantly limited due to poor aqueous solubility and rapid metabolism in the gastrointestinal tract and liver, which reduces its systemic efficacy. Ongoing research aims to enhance chrysin’s bioavailability through the development of delivery systems such as lipid-based carriers and nanoparticles. Full article

The cosmetic industry is growing at an impressive rate worldwide. In the cosmetic field, natural-origin ingredients represent the new frontier in this industry. Among the main components of cosmetics, lipids, emulsifiers, rheological modifiers, preservatives, colorants, and antioxidants can be found. These compounds form emulsions, which are among the main cosmetic formulations. An important aspect in this regard is the evaluation of emulsions’ stability over time and emulsions’ production methodology. In this paper, a comparison is made between two emulsion production technologies, the Standard and the “One-Pot” methods, through the characterization of the raw material ABWAX^® Revomul, a multifunctional wax for cosmetic use which consists of a low-melting structuring wax of vegetal origin (Rhus wax) and a natural emulsifier (Polyglyceril-3 Stearate). First, we evaluated the affinity between the wax raw materials and emollients of different chemical nature; then, we analyzed the impact of the production method on the emulsions to identify similarities and differences. ABWAX^® Revomul demonstrated a high level of effectiveness in regard to stabilizing water-in-oil emulsions. This study suggests that from an industrial point of view, the application of the two procedures allows products with different characteristics to be obtained, consequently allowing a specific method to be chosen to obtain the desired product. Full article

This study presents an integrated approach combining molecular, phytochemical, and biological analyses to characterize a newly discovered Zizania specimen from the northern Nile Delta, Egypt. Genetic fingerprinting using RAPD and ISSR markers revealed 85% band-sharing similarity with Zizania texana (Z. texana), though distinct morphological and genetic traits suggested potential intraspecific variation. Phytochemical profiling identified high concentrations of bioactive compounds, including quercetin (42.1 µg/mL), β-caryophyllene (11.21%), and gallic acid (23.4 µg/mL), which are pertinent and correlated with robust biological activities. The ethanolic leaf extract exhibited significant antioxidant capacity (IC₅₀ = 38.6 µg/mL in DPPH assay), potent antimicrobial effects against Candida albicans (C. albicans) (IC₅₀ = 4.9 ± 0.6 µg/mL), and dose-dependent cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines. MCF-7 has the lowest IC₅₀ (28.3 ± 1.5 µg/mL), indicating the highest potency among the tested cell lines. In contrast, HepG2 demonstrates moderate sensitivity (IC₅₀ = 31.4 ± 1.8 µg/mL), while A549 shows the highest IC₅₀ value (36.9 ± 2.0 µg/mL), indicating greater resistance. These findings underscore the taxonomic novelty of the specimen and its potential as a source of natural antioxidants, antimicrobials, and anticancer agents. The study highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in resolving taxonomic uncertainties and unlocking the medicinal value of understudied aquatic plants. Full article