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Background/Objectives: Possessing red and white ecotypes, and utilized in traditional Guyanese medicine, Doliocarpus dentatus’ red ecotype is preferred locally for its purported superior therapeutic efficacy. Although therapeutic metabolites were detected in D. dentatus previously, phytohormones remain largely unexplored, until now. Cytokinins, phytohormones responsible for plant cell division, growth and differentiation, are gaining traction for their therapeutic potential in human health. This study screened and quantified endogenous cytokinins and correlated detected cytokinins with selected secondary metabolites. Methods: Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to acquire phytohormone and metabolite data. Bioinformatics tools were used to assess untargeted metabolomics datasets via statistical and pathway analyses, and chemical groupings of putative metabolites. Results: In total, 20 of the 35 phytohormones were detected and quantified in both ecotypes, with the red ecotype displaying higher free base and glucoside cytokinin concentrations and exhibited 6.2 times the total CK content when compared to the white ecotype. Pathway analysis revealed flavonoid and monoterpenoid biosynthesis in red and white ecotypes, respectively. Positive correlations between specific cytokinins and alkaloids, and between trans-Zeatin and isopentenyladenosine riboside with phenolic compounds were observed. Conclusions: These results suggest that the red ecotype’s elevated cytokinin levels coupled with flavonoid biosynthesis enrichment support its preference in Guyanese traditional medicine. 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

The growing demand for food and the environmental impact of conventional agriculture have prompted the search for sustainable alternatives. Phycocyanin (PC) and total phenolic compounds (TPC) extracted from Spirulina platensis have shown potential for the biological control of phytopathogens. The extraction method directly influences the yield and stability of these compounds. This study aimed to establish an efficient extraction protocol for PC and TPC and to evaluate their antimicrobial efficacy in vitro against Colletotrichum orchidearum, Fusarium nirenbergiae, and Alternaria sp. isolated from hydroponically grown lettuce. The phytopathogens were identified based on phylogenetic analyses using sequences from the ITS, EF1-α, GAPDH, and RPB2 gene regions. This is the first report of C. orchidearum in hydroponic lettuce culture in Brazil, expanding its known host range. Extracts were obtained using hydroalcoholic solvents and phosphate buffer (PB), combined with ultrasound-assisted extraction (bath and probe). The extracts were tested for in vitro antifungal activity. Data were analyzed by ANOVA (p < 0.05), followed by Tukey’s test. The combination of the PB and ultrasound probe resulted in the highest PC (95.6 mg·g⁻¹ biomass) and TPC (21.9 mg GAE·g⁻¹) yields, using 10% (w/v) biomass. After UV sterilization, the extract retained its PC and TPC content. The extract inhibited C. orchidearum by up to 53.52% after three days and F. nirenbergiae by 54.17% on the first day. However, it promoted the growth of Alternaria sp. These findings indicate that S. platensis extracts are a promising alternative for the biological control of C. orchidearum and F. nirenbergiae in hydroponic systems. Full article

This study evaluated the effects of different storage conditions, varying in light exposure, relative humidity (RH), and packaging materials, on the physicochemical stability of Lobosphaera sp. biomass, the retention of bioactive compounds, and the bioactivity of its extracts. Under light and 75% RH, the biomass absorbed moisture over time, reaching 0.779 ± 0.003 g/g dry weight (DW) after three months. This was accompanied by a decline in luminosity, chroma, and hue values. In contrast, samples stored under other conditions showed minimal changes, indicating that high humidity, combined with light exposure, compromises biomass stability. Packaging in metalized polyethylene terephthalate (PETmet/PE) effectively preserved the water content, color, and carotenoid levels during a two-month storage period. Bioactive compounds extracted via hydroethanolic ultrasound-assisted extraction yielded 15.48 ± 1.35% DW. Total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts declined over time in both PETmet/PE and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) packaging, though the decrease was less pronounced in PETmet/PE. Antioxidant activity, assessed via the ABTS assay, remained stable, regardless of storage duration or packaging. Antimicrobial activity of the extract decreased over time but remained more effective against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Listeria monocytogenes), with PETmet/PE packaging better preserving antimicrobial efficacy than LDPE. These findings underscore the importance of optimized storage conditions and packaging for maintaining the quality and bioactivity of Lobosphaera sp. biomass and its extracts. Full article

Skin disorders are common and often chronic conditions with significant therapeutic challenges. Limitations of conventional treatments, such as adverse effects and antimicrobial resistance, have increased interest in plant-based alternatives. This article presents the phytochemical composition and pharmacological potential of several medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment of skin diseases, including Rubus vulgaris, Plantago major, Artemisia terrae-albae, and Eryngium planum. Based on an analysis of scientific literature, the presence of bioactive compounds—including flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, tannins, and sesquiterpenes—is summarized, along with their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Emphasis is placed on the correlation between traditional ethnomedicinal applications and pharmacological mechanisms. The findings support the potential of these species as sources for dermatological phytotherapeutics. Further research is needed to standardize active constituents, assess safety, and conduct clinical validation. 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

In this study, the effects of water bath and ultrasonic bath systems on bioactive properties, phenolic components and fatty acid profiles of unroasted and roasted pumpkin seeds were investigated. It is thought that determining the bioactive components, phenolic constituents and fatty acid profiles of unroasted and roasted pumpkin seeds will lead to the establishment of usage norms according to their composition characteristics. Total phenolic quantities of the pumpkin seed extracts obtained by water bath extraction of the seeds were defined to be between 7.58 (control) and 11.55 (25 min) and 10.20 (control) and 17.18 mg GAE/100 g (50 min), respectively. Phenolic content increased by 50% after 50 min of ultrasonic extraction, indicating the efficiency of this method. Also, total flavonoid amounts increased about 55% after 25 min of ultrasonic extraction, indicating the efficiency of this method. It was observed that the catechin contents of unroasted pumpkin seeds obtained in water and ultrasonic baths decreased significantly at the 50th minute of extraction compared to the control. The antioxidant activity values (DPPH) of roasted pumpkin seeds treated in water- and ultrasonic bath systems increased by approximately 10% compared to the control at 50 min of sonication in both systems, respectively. Also, the 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid amounts of the extracts obtained by both extraction systems of roasted pumpkin seeds were determined between 9.85 (50 min) and 17.22 mg/100 g (control) and 11.17 (25 min) and 13.74 mg/100 g (50 min), respectively. The linoleic acid amounts of unroasted pumpkin seed oils extracted in water- and ultrasonic baths varied between 52.34 (50 min) and 53.33% (control) to 52.90 (50 min) and 53.04% (control), respectively. The linoleic acid values of the roasted pumpkin seed oils were established to be between 52.30 (50 min) and 52.84 (25 min) and 52.32 (50 min) and 53.46% (25 min), respectively. In general, the phenolic compound amounts of roasted pumpkin seeds were higher than those of unroasted ones. The fatty acid amounts of pumpkin seed oils extracted with an ultrasonic bath were generally slightly higher than those extracted with a water bath. In future studies, changes in the phytochemical and bioactive properties of pumpkin seed oils obtained by applying different roasting techniques and extraction methods will be investigated. Full article

The Amazon region is home to a remarkable diversity of plant species that are used in traditional medicine and cuisine. This study aimed to evaluate the functional, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of the leaves of Allium schoenoprasum, Brugmansia candida (white and pink), and Cyclanthemum bipartitum. Bioactive compounds (L-ascorbic acid, organic acids, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and chlorophylls) were quantified using liquid chromatography. The ABTS and DPPH methods were used to assess the antioxidant capacity. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans, and Candida tropicalis was evaluated. The results revealed a high content of L-ascorbic acid (7.6 mg/100 g dry weight) and total carotenoids (509.0 mg/100 g dry weight), as well as high antioxidant capacity (4.5 mmol TE/100 g dry weight) and broad antimicrobial activity in Brugmansia candida ‘pink’. The White variety had the highest concentration of total chlorophylls (1742.8 mg/100 g DW), Cyclanthemum bipartitum had the highest total organic acid content (2814.5 mg/100 g DW), and Allium schoenoprasum had the highest concentration of total phenolic compounds (11,351.6 mg/100 g DW). These results constitute a starting point for future research, emphasizing the potential health risks that certain species may pose. Full article

Asthma is a persistent ailment that impacts the respiratory system and stands as a formidable public health challenge globally. Inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators, while effective in asthma management, are accompanied by side effects and high costs. Recently, nutraceuticals have gained significant attention as adjuvant therapy due to their promising outcomes. Given the antioxidant properties, nutrient richness, and an array of health benefits, beetroot and its bioactive compounds have been tested as an adjuvant therapy for asthma management. Although its main bioactive compound, betalains (betanin), has demonstrated promising results in mouse studies, beetroot juice has been found to worsen asthma. This review investigated the full spectrum of active compounds associated with beetroots to understand the underlying factors contributing to the conflicting findings. The finding suggests that individual bioactive compounds, such as phenolic compounds, flavonoids, nitrates, betalains, saponins, vitamins, fiber, and carotenoids, possess asthma-managing properties. However, the consumption of juice may exacerbate the condition. This discrepancy may be attributed to the presence of sugars and oxalates in the juice, which could counteract the beneficial effects of the bioactive compounds. Full article

Pistachio nuts are among the 50 best foods with the highest antioxidant potential. They have a balanced content of mono- (~70%) and polyunsaturated (~20%) fatty acids, minerals, and bioactive compounds such as tocopherols, phytosterols, and phenolic compounds, which have shown rapid accessibility in the stomach. Pistachio consumption provides several health benefits, primarily due to its antioxidant properties and high content of essential nutrients. In this study, we analyzed the mineral composition, total phenolic content (TP), antioxidant activity (AA), and UHPLC/MS-MS polyphenolic profile of three Argentinian pistachio crops. Additionally, the physicochemical parameters and the elemental profiles of the growing soils were determined, as they influence mineral uptake and the synthesis of bioactive compounds in pistachio kernels. The TP was not significantly modified by the growing soils, with Crop3 presenting the highest TP content (276 ± 14 mg GA/100 g DW). Crop3 exhibited 18% higher TP content compared to Crop2. Similarly, FRAP values ranged from 28.0 to 36.5 mmol TE/100 g DW, with Crop1 showing a 30% increase compared to Crop2. DPPH values varied from 19.0 to 24.3 mmol TE/100 g DW, with Crop1 displaying 28% higher activity than Crop2. However, the polyphenolic profile was similar for all crops analyzed. Thirty compounds were identified; only Crop 1 contained the flavanone eriodyctiol and the isoflavone genistein, while the flavanone naringenin and the flavone luteolin were identified in Crop1 and Crop3. Regarding mineral content, the pistachio kernels mainly contained K, Ca, and Mg. Multivariate analyses revealed distinct elemental and antioxidant profiles among crops. LDA achieved classification accuracies of 77.7% for soils and 74.4% for kernels, with Pb, Zn, Cu, Rb, Sr, and Mn as key discriminants. CCA confirmed strong soil–kernel mineral correlations (r = 1), while GPA showed higher congruence between antioxidant traits and kernel composition than with soil geochemistry. These findings underscore the importance of soil composition in determining the nutritional quality of pistachio kernels, thereby supporting the beneficial health effects associated with pistachio consumption. Full article

Goji berries (Lycium barbarum L.) are considered a functional food due to their high content of bioactive compounds with demonstrated health benefits. This study evaluated four cultivars (G3, G4, G5, and G7) grown under Mediterranean climate conditions, focusing on their physicochemical properties (total soluble solids, titratable acidity, and pH), bioactive compound (sugars and organic acids, total and individual phenolic and carotenoid compounds, and antioxidant activities (DPPH and CUPRAC assay)), and aromatic profiles (by GC-MS) to assess their suitability for fresh consumption or incorporation into food products. G4 exhibited the most favorable physicochemical characteristics, with the highest total soluble solids (20.2 °Brix) and sugar content (92.8 g 100 g⁻¹ dw). G5 stood out for its lower titratable acidity (0.34%) and highest ripening index (54.8), indicating desirable flavor attributes. Concerning bioactive compounds, G3 and G4 showed the highest total phenolic content (17.9 and 19.1 mg GAE g⁻¹ dw, respectively), with neochlorogenic acid being predominant. G4 was notable for its high carotenoid content, particularly zeaxanthin (1722.6 μg g⁻¹ dw). These compounds significantly contributed to antioxidant activity. Volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles revealed alcohols and aldehydes as the dominant chemical families, with hexanal being the most abundant. G5 and G7 exhibited the highest total VOC concentrations. Principal component analysis grouped G3 and G4 based on their high sugar and phenolic content, while G5 and G7 were characterized by their complex aromatic profiles. Therefore, G3 and G4 are promising candidates for fresh consumption and potential functional applications, while G5 and G7 are particularly suitable for new product development due to their nutraceutical and aromatic value. Full article

Wild Ganoderma lucidum from Nepal’s high-altitude regions was studied to identify key bioactive compounds and assess the influence of solvent type—water, ethanol, methanol, and acetone—on extraction efficiency and biological activity. Extracts were evaluated for antioxidant potential, cytotoxicity against HeLa cells, and phytochemical composition via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Solvent type significantly affected both yield and bioactivity. Acetone yielded the highest crude extract (5.01%), while ethanol extract exhibited the highest total phenolic (376.5 ± 9.3 mg PG/g) and flavonoid content (30.3 ± 0.5 mg QE/g). Methanol extract was richest in lycopene (0.07 ± 0.00 mg/g) and β-carotene (0.45 ± 0.02 mg/g). Ethanol extract demonstrated consistently strong DPPH, superoxide, hydroxyl, and nitric oxide radical scavenging activity, along with high reducing power. All extracts showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity against HeLa cells, with ethanol and water extracts showing the greatest inhibition (>65% at 1000 µg/mL). GC-MS profiling identified solvent-specific bioactive compounds including sterols, terpenoids, polyphenols, and fatty acids. Notably, pharmacologically relevant compounds such as hinokione, ferruginol, ergosterol, and geranylgeraniol were detected. These findings demonstrate the therapeutic potential of G. lucidum, underscore the importance of solvent selection, and suggest that high-altitude ecological conditions may influence its bioactive metabolite profile. 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

Aging in wooden barrels is a proven technique that enhances the sensory complexity of alcoholic beverages by promoting the extraction of volatile and phenolic compounds. While oak has been traditionally used, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative wood species that can impart distinct sensory characteristics and promote innovative maturation processes. This review examines the impact of alternative woods on the aging of beverages, such as wine, cachaça, tequila, and beer, focusing on their influence on aroma, flavor, color, and chemical composition. A bibliometric analysis highlights the increasing scientific attention toward wood diversification and emerging aging technologies, including ultrasound and micro-oxygenation, which accelerate maturation while preserving sensory complexity. The role of toasting techniques in modulating the release of phenolic and volatile compounds is also discussed, emphasizing their contribution to unique sensory profiles. Additionally, regulatory aspects and sustainability considerations are explored, suggesting that alternative woods can expand flavor possibilities while supporting environmentally sustainable practices. This review underscores the potential of non-traditional wood species to drive innovation in the aging of alcoholic beverages and provide new sensory experiences that align with evolving consumer preferences and market trends. Full article

Wild edible mushrooms are increasingly recognised for their nutritional and therapeutic potential, owing to their richness in bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties. This study assessed the chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Ni) in Boletus edulis, Imleria badia, and Leccinum scabrum collected from two forested regions of north-western Poland differing in anthropogenic influence and soil characteristics. The analysis encompassed structural polysaccharides (β- and α-glucans, chitin), carotenoids, L-ascorbic acid, phenolic and organic acids. B. edulis exhibited the highest β-glucan and lycopene contents, but also the greatest cadmium accumulation. I. badia was distinguished by elevated ascorbic and citric acid levels and the strongest DPPH radical scavenging activity, while L. scabrum showed the highest ABTS and FRAP antioxidant capacities and accumulated quinic acid and catechin. Principal component analysis indicated strong correlations between antioxidant activity and phenolic acids, while cadmium levels were inversely associated with antioxidant potential and positively correlated with chitin. Although all metal concentrations remained within EU food safety limits, B. edulis showed consistent cadmium bioaccumulation. From a practical perspective, the results highlight the importance of species selection and sourcing location when considering wild mushrooms for consumption or processing, particularly in the context of nutritional value and contaminant load. Importantly, regular or excessive consumption of B. edulis may result in exceeding the tolerable weekly intake (TWI) levels for cadmium and nickel, which warrants particular attention from a food safety perspective. These findings underscore the influence of species-specific traits and environmental conditions on mushroom biochemical profiles and support their potential as functional foods, provided that metal contents are adequately monitored. Full article