Search Results (10,274)

Background/Objectives: Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst. (commonly known as reishi mushroom), a well-characterized medicinal fungus, contains diverse bioactive metabolites. This study aimed to fractionate, characterize and identify the biologically active inhibitors present in G. lucidum and to evaluate their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic activities. Methods: The ethanol extract of G. lucidum was fractionated using column chromatography, yielding ten distinct fractions (designated as A, B, E, F, K, L, M, N, O, and P based on their elution order and visual characteristics). Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis identified 46 bioactive compounds, including terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. Results: Among the fractions, Fraction L exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity, with an IC₅₀ of 1.59 mg/mL. Fraction O displayed significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 (24.4 ± 0.238 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883 (20.5 ± 0.035 mm), Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 (8 ± 0.176 mm), and Staphylococcus warneri ATCC 10209 (20 ± 0.080 mm). Regarding antidiabetic activity, Fraction B demonstrated the strongest inhibition of α-amylase (IC₅₀ 1.69 ± 0.03 mg/mL), while Fraction E showed the strongest α-glucosidase inhibition (IC₅₀ = 1.69 ± 0.02 mg/mL), demonstrating reciprocal selectivity between enzyme targets. Conclusions: These results establish that chromatographic fractionation concentrates specific bioactivities into distinct fractions, supporting its potential for the development of novel therapeutic agents with enhanced specificity and efficacy. Full article

Eupatorium fortunei Turcz. (E. fortunei), a member of the Asteraceae family, is a widely utilized traditional medicinal herb in China. Historically, it has been employed to treat conditions such as influenza, nausea, anorexia, and various ailments associated with “pathogenic dampness”. To the best of our knowledge, this study presents the first systematic review of recent research on E. fortunei, based on a comprehensive literature search across both Chinese and international databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, SciFinder, and CNKI. The review encompasses its botanical characteristics, traditional applications, phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties, and toxicological profiles. Current research reveals a diverse array of phytochemicals in E. fortunei, with 162 compounds identified to date, including thymol derivatives, terpenoids, alkaloids, benzofurans, fatty acids, and other bioactive constituents. These compounds exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, encompassing anti-cancer, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic effects. Among these, thymol derivatives and benzofurans emerge as the most prominent bioactive compounds, demonstrating potent cytotoxic effects against various tumor cell lines. Although E. fortunei is generally considered safe, certain pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) present potential hepatotoxic risks, which can be mitigated through appropriate dosage control and formulation optimization. As a valuable traditional Chinese medicinal herb, E. fortunei exhibits substantial therapeutic potential. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of current research on E. fortunei, offering scientific evidence and guidance for its rational development and clinical application. Full article

Plant-derived saponins have attracted significant interest for their potential to promote apoptotic cell death and enhance antitumor immune responses through immunogenic cell death (ICD). Akebia quinata, a saponin-rich medicinal plant, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties; however, studies on its seeds are limited, and their immunomodulatory activity in cancer remains largely unexplored. In this study, A. quinata seeds were extracted using 70% ethanol, and the phytochemical profile was characterized using UHPLC–QTOF MS/MS. We investigated the anticancer properties of A. quinata seed extract (AQSE), focusing on its role in inducing apoptosis and ICD in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In human NSCLC cell lines (A549 and H460), AQSE exhibited potent cytotoxic effects in a dose-dependent manner. Flow cytometric analysis confirmed the induction of apoptosis, evidenced by a significant increase in Annexin V-positive cells and an elevated sub-G1 population. Mechanistically, AQSE treatment induced cell death by simultaneously inhibiting the survival-promoting MEK/ERK/CREB axis and activating the stress-responsive JNK pathway. Furthermore, AQSE triggered hallmark features of ICD, characterized by surface exposure of calreticulin and the release of extracellular HMGB1 and ATP. Most importantly, an in vivo vaccination assay using a syngeneic mouse model demonstrated that immunization with AQSE-treated dying cells significantly suppressed tumor growth upon rechallenge, confirming the establishment of antitumor immunological memory. Additionally, bioassay-guided fractionation revealed that the anticancer activity was primarily concentrated in the ethyl acetate fraction. These findings suggest that AQSE exerts anticancer effects via the induction of apoptosis and ICD, highlighting its potential as a promising natural candidate for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against NSCLC. Full article

Background: Gastrodia elata Blume (GE) is a valuable traditional Chinese medicine with a wide range of clinical applications, yet the relationship between its developmental stages, phytochemical profiles, and functional properties remains poorly characterized. Methods: In this study, an integrated approach combining chemical assays and UHPLC–Orbitrap–MS/MS-based untargeted metabolomics was employed to characterize three growth stages: Mima (MT, seed tubers), Baima (BT, immature tubers), and Jianma (JT, mature tubers). Results: Multivariate statistical analyses demonstrated clear stage-dependent discrimination in metabolic profiles. A total of 31 differential metabolites were identified, including parishin derivatives, phenolics, amino acids, and organic acids. Specifically, Parishin E, Parishin G, total phenolics, and total flavonoids predominated in the early stage (MT), whereas gastrodin and Parishin C progressively accumulated and peaked in the mature stage (JT). Bioactivity assays revealed that GE extracts exhibited significant antioxidant and hypoglycemic (α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory) effects, which followed an initial decrease followed by a subsequent recovery during development. Correlation analysis further established a strong relationship between phenolic-associated metabolites (particularly Parishin E/G/H) and the observed bioactivities. Conclusions: In summary, these findings elucidate the metabolic dynamics of GE across developmental stages and provide a scientific basis for optimizing harvest timing and raw-material grading to enhance the functional properties of GE-derived products. Full article

The rise in emerging viral outbreaks has intensified the need for novel antiviral therapies and highlighted the untapped potential of natural products. Influenza viruses, particularly avian strains, continue to evolve rapidly, yet the antiviral properties of Jordan’s native plants remain largely unexplored. This study focused on avian influenza and screened twelve endemic plant species, using ethanol to selectively extract polar phytochemicals likely to interact with the hydrophilic active site of neuraminidase (NA). Among these, Arbutus andrachne leaf and fruit extracts emerged as potent in vitro inhibitors of recombinant N9 neuraminidase, a key enzyme in influenza replication, with IC₅₀ values of 31.6 µg/mL and 32.9 µg/mL, respectively. LC-MS analysis identified hyperoside as the major shared flavonoid in both extracts, which may contribute to the observed inhibitory activity. These findings support the potential of A. andrachne as a natural source for herbal preparations with antiviral activity. Full article

This study examines a low-processed, food-grade extraction concept for peppermint leaves (Mentha × piperita L.) using solvents consistent with the principles of green chemistry and an infusion-like protocol. Primary extraction (2–30 min; 50–100 °C) was carried out using water, plasma-treated nanowater, a glycerol–water mixture (65%), an ethanol–water mixture (50%; at room temperature and at 50 °C), and rapeseed oil. To evaluate the potential use of biomass within a circular economy model, the residue remaining after the first extraction was subjected to secondary extraction under identical time–temperature conditions. Primary and secondary extracts were characterized in terms of total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), essential oil (EO) recovery, and antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP), and extraction yields were expressed relative to a 70% methanolic reference (TPC/TFC) and to the initial EO content in the plant material. Under the most favorable conditions (10 min; 100 °C; ethanol–water at 50 °C), the highest extraction yields of polar phytochemicals (TPC and TFC) were obtained with water and nanowater, whereas the ethanol–water mixture (50%) and rapeseed oil provided the greatest recovery of essential oil (up to complete depletion after the second extraction). Antioxidant activity showed a similar dependence on solvent type, with water and nanowater extracts exhibiting the highest DPPH/FRAP values. Importantly, secondary extraction contributed a substantial share of the total recovered bioactive compounds (often >30% of combined TPC/TFC), confirming that post-extraction residues remain a valuable raw material. The results support a practical, sequential strategy for designing peppermint extracts: aqueous and glycerol systems for phenolic-rich extracts, and ethanol and oil systems for essential-oil-enriched preparations, with secondary extraction enabling simple, low-energy biomass valorization. Full article

Cantaloupe melon (Cucumis melo L.) processing generates significant amounts of underutilized by-products that represent a promising source of bioactive compounds. Renowned for its abundance of β-carotene and phenolic antioxidants, it has garnered increased attention in recent years due to its nutritional profile. Melon side-streams, such as peels, seeds, and residual pulp, have emerged as valuable sources for sustainable functional ingredient development. This work provides updated insights into the phytochemical composition and bioactive properties of cantaloupe melon, with emphasis on the recovery and valorization of its by-products through conventional and emerging eco-friendly extraction technologies. These strategies are also discussed within a biorefinery perspective aimed at improving biomass utilization and promoting the development of value-added functional ingredients. Additionally, this review addresses how such approaches contribute to circular economy principles, supporting more sustainable and resource-efficient food production models. Full article

Background/Objectives: Demand for functional foods is growing due to the desire to prevent cardiometabolic disorders. Pseudocereals, particularly quinoa, buckwheat, and amaranth, stand out for their functional properties related to cardiometabolic health. The dietary fiber, plant proteins, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals in pseudocereals primarily help to regulate glycemic response and lipid profile, as well as blood pressure. The aim of this review is to briefly explain the role of pseudocereals in biological mechanisms underlying cardiometabolic effects and evaluate the findings of human studies. Methods: The biological mechanisms that emphasize potential cardiometabolic effects of pseudocereals were summarized based on preclinical studies. Human studies were searched on Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect between June and December 2025. Findings of human studies on potential cardiometabolic health benefits of pseudocereals, including their anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-obesity, and anti-hypertensive effects, are discussed. Results: The revealed mechanisms in preclinical studies and current outcomes of thirty-three human studies included in this review indicated that pseudocereals, especially quinoa and buckwheat, might be a part of healthy nutrition to assist the prevention and management of cardiometabolic disorders. In human studies, the most notable improvements were reported in plasma triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. Nevertheless, the number of human studies is limited, and existing studies have methodological variations to state cumulative and evidence-based consumption recommendations. Conclusions: Despite the potential protective effects of pseudocereals on cardiometabolic health, well-designed, controlled human studies are needed to elucidate the outcomes and provide clear evidence of the role of pseudocereals in relation to cardiometabolic effects. Full article

M. crystallinum is an edible halophytic succulent plant rich in phenolic compounds with potential pharmaceutical applications. However, it is known that these phytocompounds generally present low absorption, which hinders their direct use in formulations. Therefore, delivery systems, such as phytosomes, can be regarded as a potential strategy to overcome this disadvantage. This study aimed, for the first time, to prepare extracts from the ice plant using different solvents and to incorporate them into phytosomes. Physicochemical characterization of these phytosomes, their antioxidant activity, as well as the quantification and in vitro release profile of their phenolic and flavonoid compounds were studied. Different extraction solvents were assayed, and Ethanol:Acetone (80:20) achieved a strong antioxidant activity (reaching ca. 71.16%), extracting 3200.3 mg of GAE/100 g and 761.7 mg of QE/100 g of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, respectively. The phytosomal formulation exhibited a mean particle size of 233.80 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.23, and a zeta potential of −27.27 mV. Furthermore, a high encapsulation efficiency (96.63%) of the extracts in the phytosomes was obtained. The in vitro release test indicated that the antioxidant activity was retained, reaching a maximum of 42%, accompanied by a release of 51% of the flavonoid content at the end of the 3 h assay, under the experimental conditions. These findings highlight the potential of phytosomes formulated with Mesembryanthemum crystallinum extract as a delivery system for antioxidant phytochemicals. Full article

In a preliminary screening of phytochemical compounds from Andalusian vascular plants, the ethyl acetate extract obtained from the leaves of Corema album (L.) D. Don (Ericaceae) was selected due to its cytotoxic activity. Eight phenolic compounds were isolated from this extract: four chalcones (2′,4′-dihydroxydihydrochalcone, 2′,4′-dihydroxychalcone, 2′,4′-dihydroxy-6′-methoxydihydrochalcone, 2′-methoxy-4′-hydroxydihydrochalcone) and four flavanones (pinocembrin, 6-methylpinocembrin, 6,8-dimethylpinocembrin and 7-O-prenylpinocembrin). Their structures were elucidated using ¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR data, including 2D NMR, as well as mass spectrometry. These compounds were evaluated using the MTT cytotoxicity assay against human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT-29) and renal adenocarcinoma (ACHN) cell lines. The chalcone 2′,4′-dihydroxychalcone exhibited greater cytotoxicity than the corresponding 2′,4′-dihydroxydihydrochalcone in both cell lines. The IC₅₀ values (µM ± SEM) were 13.31 ± 0.48 and 9.43 ± 0.34 for the chalcone, and 62.23 ± 1.06 and 54.68 ± 1.62 for the dihydrochalcone, respectively. The introduction of methyl groups at positions 6 and 8 of pinocembrin increased cytotoxicity in the ACHN cell line. The IC₅₀ values (µM ± SEM) were 91.28 ± 3.03 for pinocembrin, 64.36 ± 0.53 for 6-methylpinocembrin, and 28.74 ± 0.35 for 6,8-dimethylpinocembrin. These results highlight the leaves of C. album as a promising source of chalcones and flavanones with pharmacological interest. Full article

The chemical composition of Iris songarica rhizome extracts was systematically investigated using GC-MS and UHPLC-MS. Their biological activity was further evaluated in vivo. The chloroform rhizome extract contained 33 identified compounds distributed across five main classes. Flavonoids predominated (50.7% of total ionic current), with tectochrysine (42.15%) as the major component, followed by 3,7-dihydroxy-2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-4H-chromene-4-one (5.18%) and a naringenin derivative (3.99%). Fatty acid esters comprised 30.6%, dominated by linoleic acid ethyl ester (11.05%), ethyl oleate, and hexadecanoic acid ethyl ester. Phenolic and aromatic compounds accounted for 14.24%, including (E)-4-(3-hydroxyprop-1-en-1-yl)-2-methoxyphenol and flamenol. Quantitative HPLC revealed hesperetin (69.72 µg/mL) and fisetin (12.32 µg/mL) as predominant in the 50% aqueous ethanol extract, and cinarin (6.28 µg/mL) in the ethyl acetate root extract. HPLC-MS identified 25 polyphenols, mainly isoflavonoids and flavones, with key markers songaricol, irilin B, tectorigenin, irisflavone A, and irizon B, some reported for the first time in Kazakhstan irises. Biological evaluation demonstrated potent activity: the 50% aqueous ethanol extract inhibited xylene-induced ear oedema in mice by 72.7% at 300 mg/kg, comparable to diclofenac (90.9%), without observable toxicity. These findings confirm I. songarica as a valuable source of bioactive polyphenols with anti-inflammatory potential. Full article

The genus Oncosiphon (Asteraceae), consisting of aromatic herbs, is indigenous to southern Africa. Oncosiphon species have been documented in Khoi-San ethnobotany as herbal remedies for typhoid fever, pneumonia, and as diuretics. Research on the biological properties and comprehensive phytochemical profiling of these important Oncosiphon species is currently limited. This study was therefore undertaken to address the knowledge void in chemical profiling, through the application of various analytical techniques to analyse the volatile and non-volatile constituents of three South African Oncosiphon species. The aerial parts of Oncosiphon suffruticosus (n = 28), O. grandiflorus (n = 16), and O. africanus (n = 4) were collected from various locations in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. The stems and leaves (SL) were separated from the flowers (F) and analysed as distinct samples. The methanol: chloroform (1:1, v/v) extracts were prepared and analysed using ultra–high–performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight time–of–flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC–QToF–MS) and a semi–automated high–performance thin–layer chromatography (HPTLC) system. Multivariate data analysis was performed on the UHPLC–QToF–MS data to determine interspecies chemical variation. Two-dimensional (2D) gas chromatography (GCxGC–ToF–MS) was used to determine the headspace volatile profiles of the intact aerial parts. The results show that the non-volatile profiles of the Oncosiphon species are characterised by amino acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and fatty acid derivatives. The HPTLC profiles of O. grandiflorus and O. africanus are chemically more closely related, and O. suffruticosus has a distinct profile, which is supported by the chemometrics results of the flowers. The major headspace volatile compounds in Oncosiphon flowers are α-pinene, α-ocimene, eucalyptol, o-cymene, and artemisia alcohol, whereas the stems and leaves mainly consist of α-ocimene, eucalyptol, and yomogi alcohol. Full article

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

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

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