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Search Results (184)

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Keywords = ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE)

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21 pages, 8999 KB  
Article
Physicochemical Characterization and Optimized Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Teff (Eragrostis tef): Phenolic Profile, Antioxidant Activity, Prebiotic Potential, and Phytic Acid Degradation
by Boyiza Samson Abebe, Iuliana Aprodu, Daniela Ionela Istrati, Nicoleta Balan, Aida Mihaela Vasile, Mihaela Cotârleț, Nicoleta Stănciuc and Camelia Vizireanu
Foods 2026, 15(15), 2717; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15152717 - 1 Aug 2026
Viewed by 206
Abstract
Teff (Eragrostis tef) is a gluten-free cereal and a valuable source for functional food. This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics of teff flours and optimized ultrasound-assisted extraction of bioactive compounds. Ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) was optimized using a Box–Behnken design (BBD), and [...] Read more.
Teff (Eragrostis tef) is a gluten-free cereal and a valuable source for functional food. This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics of teff flours and optimized ultrasound-assisted extraction of bioactive compounds. Ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) was optimized using a Box–Behnken design (BBD), and the best extraction conditions were 50% ethanol, 60 °C, and 45 min, yielding 49.6 ± 0.028 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/100 g dry weight (DW). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis revealed an abundant phenolic profile with compounds including epigallocatechin (2960.30 µg/g), epicatechin (113.55 µg/g), hesperidin (163.64 µg/g), and ferulic acid (41.79 µg/g). Prebiotic potential testing with Lactobacillus plantarum MIUG BL21 at 4 °C over 21 days indicated a concentration-dependent decrease in viability: at 5 mg/mL, mean counts decreased from 4.721 ± 0.049 to 2.349 ± 0.048 log colony-forming units (CFU)/mL; at 2.5 mg/mL, from 3.396 ± 0.095 to 0.500 ± 0.198 log CFU/mL; and at 1 mg/mL, counts became undetectable. Phytic acid degradation in teff extracts followed first-order kinetics, with half-lives of 1504.55, 752.30, and 300.91 min at 50, 70, and 90 °C, respectively. The activation energy of 39.07 kJ/mol confirmed the temperature dependence of the process and indicated an effective reduction in phytic acid. In conclusion, teff extracts may represent promising functional ingredients with antioxidant potential, support for probiotic viability, and reduced antinutritional factors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Engineering and Technology)
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22 pages, 2293 KB  
Article
Optimization of Non-Enzymatic Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Yellowfin Tuna Head Oil and Comparison with Enzyme-Assisted Extraction Oils
by Ruixue Cao, Yifan Ren, Zhunyao Zhu, Xiaopeng Zou, Longqi Gu and Xiangzhong Zhao
Foods 2026, 15(14), 2524; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15142524 - 16 Jul 2026
Viewed by 296
Abstract
Yellowfin tuna heads (YFTH), a major by-product of tuna processing, are rich in lipids and long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. This study developed and optimized an ultrasound-assisted extraction process without exogenous protease addition, termed non-enzymatic ultrasound-assisted extraction (NE-UAE), for recovering yellowfin tuna head [...] Read more.
Yellowfin tuna heads (YFTH), a major by-product of tuna processing, are rich in lipids and long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. This study developed and optimized an ultrasound-assisted extraction process without exogenous protease addition, termed non-enzymatic ultrasound-assisted extraction (NE-UAE), for recovering yellowfin tuna head oil (YFTO). The term NE-UAE distinguishes this process from the enzyme-assisted comparators and does not denote a different ultrasonic mechanism. A four-factor, three-level Box–Behnken design was used to optimize nominal ultrasonic power, heat-treatment temperature, liquid-to-solid ratio, and ultrasonic treatment time. The predicted local-optimum conditions were 58.3% of the 1000 W rated power (nominal setting, 583 W), 64.0 °C, 3.0 mL/g, and 31 min, respectively, yielding a validated oil recovery of 63.92 ± 0.24%. The NE-UAE oil (NETO) was compared at the process-chain level with oils obtained by papain-, trypsin-, and Alcalase-assisted aqueous extraction. Under the tested conditions, NETO had lower acid value, initial peroxide value, and p-anisidine value, a lighter color, and lower relative abundances of putative oxidation-related electronic-nose marker signals. Polyunsaturated fatty acids comprised 38.39% of total fatty acids in NETO, including 7.43% EPA and 27.13% DHA. During accelerated storage at 60 °C for 14 d, NETO showed lower absolute peroxide values and smaller baseline-corrected increases than the comparator oils. Overall, NE-UAE provided a feasible process option for recovering YFTO with acceptable oil recovery and favorable quality-related characteristics under the specific process conditions and comparator process chains examined in this study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Engineering and Technology)
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22 pages, 3579 KB  
Article
Deep Eutectic Solvent-Assisted Ultrasonic Extraction of Anthocyanins from Blueberry Pomace: Optimization, Mechanistic Insights and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity
by Lina Chen, Yue Mi, Xing Yang, Yunmei Ma, Chunting Zhu, Jing Xu and Dongfang Shi
Molecules 2026, 31(13), 2356; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31132356 - 3 Jul 2026
Viewed by 341
Abstract
This study explores an innovative approach based on deep eutectic solvent (DES)-synergistic ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) of anthocyanins from blueberry pomace (BP). Choline chloride–lactic acid (ChCl-LA, 1:2) was identified as the most efficient DES and provided the highest anthocyanin recovery. The optimal conditions for [...] Read more.
This study explores an innovative approach based on deep eutectic solvent (DES)-synergistic ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) of anthocyanins from blueberry pomace (BP). Choline chloride–lactic acid (ChCl-LA, 1:2) was identified as the most efficient DES and provided the highest anthocyanin recovery. The optimal conditions for ChCl-LA-synergistic UAE (ChCl-LA-UAE) were obtained as follows: ultrasonic power of 270 W, extraction time of 30 min, liquid-to-solid ratio of 35:1, and water content in ChCl-LA of 40%, achieving a total anthocyanin content (TAC) of 3.5168 mg/g, with R2 = 0.9860. This value was significantly higher than those obtained with 70% ethanol (3.1962 mg/g) and pure water (1.9137 mg/g). SEM images revealed that ChCl-LA-UAE disrupted the surface structure of the samples, thereby promoting anthocyanin release. COSMO-RS simulations confirmed that ChCl-LA significantly enhanced the interaction between the solvent and the representative anthocyanin (cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, C3G), resulting in higher extraction efficiency. In vitro antioxidant assays further demonstrated that the synergistic system exhibited stronger antioxidant activity. Overall, ultrasonic-synergistic DES extraction could be an eco-friendly method for recovering high-value compounds from blueberry and its byproducts. Full article
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22 pages, 1747 KB  
Article
Isorhamnetin Derivatives from Opuntia ficus-indica Oil-Extraction By-Products: NADES-Based Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Optimization, Phytochemical Profiling, and Bioactivity Assessment
by Mohamed Addi, Amine Elbouzidi, Ahmed Marhri, Laurine Garros, Duangjai Tungmunnithum, Malika Abid and Christophe Hano
Cosmetics 2026, 13(4), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics13040162 - 23 Jun 2026
Viewed by 492
Abstract
Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill.) generates substantial agro-industrial by-products, such as press cake, seed, and oil, that remain underexploited despite their recognized phytochemical richness. This study reports the systematic optimization, characterization, and bioactivity profiling of flavonoid-rich extracts recovered from these three [...] Read more.
Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill.) generates substantial agro-industrial by-products, such as press cake, seed, and oil, that remain underexploited despite their recognized phytochemical richness. This study reports the systematic optimization, characterization, and bioactivity profiling of flavonoid-rich extracts recovered from these three matrices. A Box–Behnken design (BBD) coupled with response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of total flavonoid content (TFC) from press cake using a natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES: fructose–glycerol–sorbitol–water and FGSH), selected through an initial screening of fifteen solvent systems. The quadratic polynomial model showed excellent fit (R2 = 0.9852; R2adj = 0.9687; MAPE = 1.31%; Durbin–Watson = 1.857), and optimal extraction conditions were established at 37.6 min extraction time, 35.6% ultrasonic power, and 29.4 °C, yielding a maximum predicted TFC of 54.78 ± 0.49 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/mL. HPLC-DAD analysis of the press cake extract revealed five isorhamnetin derivatives as the dominant flavonoids, with isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside (23.18 ± 0.12 mg/g DW) and isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside (13.80 ± 0.28 mg/g DW) as the most abundant. Comprehensive bioactivity assessment demonstrated significant antioxidant capacities (CUPRAC: 191.35 ± 3.22 µM AAE; ORAC: 184.44 ± 3.44 µM TE; DPPH: 103.47 ± 9.98 µM TE for press cake extract), potent in cellulo ROS/RNS suppression in a yeast UV-stress model (85.9 ± 1.0% inhibition for press cake), and differential tyrosinase inhibition across fractions (press cake: 32.8%; seed: 57.5%; oil: 83.8%), highlighting the oil as a potent anti-melanogenic ingredient. In silico safety prediction (ProTox-II/pkCSM) confirmed the favorable toxicity profiles of all identified isorhamnetin derivatives (LD50 > 5000 mg/kg; Toxicity Class V). These results collectively position Opuntia ficus-indica by-products as high-value natural sources of bioactive flavonoids with applications in cosmetic, nutraceutical, and dermatological formulations. Full article
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23 pages, 12795 KB  
Article
Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction of Astaxanthin Using Hydrophobic Deep Eutectic Solvent: Process Optimization and Anti-Aging Activity Evaluation
by Yuan Cao, Yalu Ji, Chong Chen, Wenyu Han and Zhijian Su
Foods 2026, 15(12), 2119; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15122119 - 12 Jun 2026
Viewed by 493
Abstract
Deep eutectic solvent (DES) extraction is a green and efficient technology. As a substitute for organic reagents, DESs are widely used to extract active ingredients from traditional Chinese medicine. This study established an environmentally friendly and efficient method for extracting astaxanthin (AST) from [...] Read more.
Deep eutectic solvent (DES) extraction is a green and efficient technology. As a substitute for organic reagents, DESs are widely used to extract active ingredients from traditional Chinese medicine. This study established an environmentally friendly and efficient method for extracting astaxanthin (AST) from Phaffia rhodozyma (PR) using ultrasound-assisted deep eutectic solvents (DESs-UAE). The astaxanthin content was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Six types of deep eutectic solvents composed of DL-menthol and selected hydrogen bond donors were prepared and evaluated, among which the DL-menthol–acetic acid system showed superior extraction performance. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize extraction parameters (ultrasonic power, time, and temperature), and the optimal conditions were determined as follows: ultrasonic power 420 W, ultrasonic time 20 min, and ultrasonic temperature 60 °C, achieving an AST extraction rate of 62% (2.49 mg/g). Compared with conventional organic solvent extraction, DESs exhibited a significantly higher AST extraction rate from PR, except for dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis demonstrated that DES-UAE treatment disrupted the cellular structure of PR, resulting in numerous surface pores; this facilitated the release of intracellular bioactive components and significantly improved AST extraction efficiency. The PR extract showed no significant cytotoxicity and could effectively promote L929 cell proliferation. It concentration-dependently increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) content in H2O2-induced oxidative stress L929 cells, thereby alleviating oxidative damage. Additionally, it concentration-dependently upregulated type I collagen expression in these cells, ameliorated the decline in collagen synthesis function, and exerted a protective effect against cellular oxidative damage. This study provides a green alternative to toxic solvents and offers important theoretical and chemical support for the extraction of natural products and the high-value utilization of Phaffia rhodozyma (PR). Deep eutectic solvents have emerged as promising green alternatives to hazardous organic solvents, yet hydrophobic DESs tailored for lipophilic astaxanthin extraction from Phaffia rhodozyma and the linkage between extraction performance and anti-aging bioactivity remain insufficiently explored. Here, an ultrasound-assisted hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent extraction strategy was constructed to acquire astaxanthin, aiming to overcome low efficiency and environmental risks of conventional organic extraction techniques. Six DL-menthol-based DESs were prepared and screened, and DL-menthol–acetic acid possessed the optimal extraction capacity. Key extraction parameters were optimized via response surface methodology, and the maximum astaxanthin extraction recovery reached 62% (2.49 mg/g) under 420 W ultrasonic power, 20 min treatment and 60 °C. This yield was markedly higher than that of most common organic solvents; though comparable extraction effect was obtained with DMSO, the adopted DES possessed outstanding low-toxic and biodegradable superiorities that DMSO cannot match. SEM characterization verified that the combined treatment destroyed yeast cell structure and formed porous morphology, which accelerated intracellular astaxanthin release and accounted for improved extraction efficiency. Biological assays proved the extract possessed good biosafety and proliferation-promoting effect on L929 cells. It effectively relieved cellular oxidative injury by elevating the SOD level and reducing MDA accumulation in oxidative damaged cells, and upregulated type I collagen expression to mitigate aging-related collagen loss. This work develops an eco-friendly and high-efficiency extraction route for lipophilic active substance, confirms the practical value of hydrophobic DES, and provides experimental basis for high-value utilization of Phaffia rhodozyma resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Analytical Methods)
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17 pages, 877 KB  
Article
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Phenolics from Pear Pomace: Method Optimization, Phenolic Profile, and Antioxidant Capacity
by Violeta Nour, Alexandra Cicanci, Alexandru Radu Corbu, Iurie Rumeus and Liliana Ceclu
Molecules 2026, 31(11), 1938; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31111938 - 3 Jun 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 385
Abstract
Pear pomace, a major by-product of the juice processing, represents a valuable yet underexploited source of bioactive compounds. In this study, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was optimized using response surface methodology to enhance the recovery of phenolic compounds from pear pomace powder with aqueous [...] Read more.
Pear pomace, a major by-product of the juice processing, represents a valuable yet underexploited source of bioactive compounds. In this study, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was optimized using response surface methodology to enhance the recovery of phenolic compounds from pear pomace powder with aqueous ethanol as the extraction solvent. A Box–Behnken design was employed to evaluate the effects of ethanol concentration (40–80%), extraction time (30–90 min), and ultrasonic power (48–144 W) on total phenolic content and DPPH radical scavenging activity. The results demonstrated that the negative quadratic effect of ultrasonic power on phenolic extraction yield exhibited the highest level of statistical significance. Extraction using 40% ethanol for 64.45 min at a power intensity of 117.6 W enabled the optimal recovery of phenolic constituents, yielding 280.1 mg GAE/L in the extracts. Using HPLC, the study explored how variations in ethanol concentration and extraction time affect the phenolic composition of the extracts. Chlorogenic acid, rutin and epicatechin were found to be the major polyphenolic compounds. Overall, pear pomace demonstrated strong potential as a low-cost source of phenolic compounds, and the optimized UAE process proved to be an efficient and robust approach for maximizing phenolic recovery. Full article
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11 pages, 252 KB  
Article
Process Intensification of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Polyphenols from Hancornia speciosa Gomes Fruit
by Priscilla S. Santos, Lisiane S. Freitas, Nilmara N. Santos, Evertan A. Rebelatto, M. Beatriz P. P. Oliveira, Klebson S. Santos and Ana Veruska Cruz da Silva
Eng 2026, 7(6), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng7060263 - 1 Jun 2026
Viewed by 382
Abstract
This study aimed to intensify the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of rutin, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, and total phenolic compounds (TPCs) from mangaba (Hancornia speciosa Gomes) fruit. Based on a univariate experimental screening, the selected operational conditions for the recovery of TPC, chlorogenic, [...] Read more.
This study aimed to intensify the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of rutin, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, and total phenolic compounds (TPCs) from mangaba (Hancornia speciosa Gomes) fruit. Based on a univariate experimental screening, the selected operational conditions for the recovery of TPC, chlorogenic, and ferulic acids were achieved at an ultrasonic frequency of 40 kHz with an output power of 145 W (100% potency), atmospheric pressure, and 35 °C for 30 min. Under these conditions, the extraction yields were 1540.46 ± 19.48 mg GAE/100 g for TPC, 183.86 ± 4.53 mg/100 g for chlorogenic acid, and 2.19 ± 0.3 mg/100 g for ferulic acid. Conversely, the highest rutin concentration (157.17 ± 4.68 mg/100 g) was obtained at 145 W, atmospheric pressure, and 30 °C for 30 min. Increasing the ultrasonic potency from 30% to 100% significantly enhanced the extraction of chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, and TPC, whereas it had no significant impact on rutin recovery. These results demonstrate that time, temperature, and ultrasonic potency are critical drivers of process efficiency. This work establishes a technical baseline for the industrial scale-up of UAE, highlighting its potential for the high-yield production of bioactive extracts from native Brazilian fruits for the pharmaceutical and food sectors. Full article
27 pages, 21320 KB  
Article
Construction of Green System for Flavonoids from Dalbergia Pinnata (Lour.) Prain Based on NADES-UAE: Intelligent Optimization–Molecular Mechanism–Activity Verification
by Haiyu Yang, Bingyou Luo, Jingmin Mo, Junhui Xie, Jianwei Luo, Kunying Yu, Jianhua Wei and Haiyi Zhong
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(10), 4268; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27104268 - 11 May 2026
Viewed by 530
Abstract
To promote green chemistry and improve the utilization of plant resources, flavonoids from Dalbergia pinnata (Lour.) Prain were extracted in this study by combining NADES (natural deep eutectic solvents) with UAE (ultrasound-assisted extraction). Among the 13 synthesized NADES, choline chloride (ChCl)–urea (NADES-13) exhibited [...] Read more.
To promote green chemistry and improve the utilization of plant resources, flavonoids from Dalbergia pinnata (Lour.) Prain were extracted in this study by combining NADES (natural deep eutectic solvents) with UAE (ultrasound-assisted extraction). Among the 13 synthesized NADES, choline chloride (ChCl)–urea (NADES-13) exhibited the highest extraction rate, outperforming traditional organic solvents. The optimal conditions determined by response surface methodology (RSM) were as follows: ChCl–urea molar ratio of 1:3, moisture content of 60%, liquid-to-material ratio of 28.5 mL/g, ultrasonic extraction time of 49 min, and temperature of 62 °C. Under these conditions, the extraction rate reached 117.95 ± 5.97 mg/g, a 73.5% improvement compared with 80% EtOH extraction. The comparison of the two algorithms showed that RSM (R = 0.9981, RMSE = 0.6570) had better fitting accuracy and prediction stability under small sample conditions than MLP (R = 0.9427, RMSE = 5.261) and RF (R = 0.9431, RMSE = 5.2442). DFT (density functional theory) analysis demonstrated that hydrogen bonds, Van der Waals forces, and cation–π interactions mediate the interaction between NADES-13 and flavonoids. Ultrasonic cavitation-induced cell wall damage and the hydrogen-bond network of NADES-13 were confirmed separately by SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy). In vitro experiments showed that the extract possessed concentration-dependent antioxidant activity and strong antibacterial activity, with an inhibition rate of 96.87 ± 5.09% against Escherichia coli at a concentration of 0.04 mg/mL. In this study, a “Smart Optimization–Molecular Mechanism–Activity Verification” green extraction system was developed, which offers an efficient and environmentally friendly strategy for extracting plant bioactive components and contributes to the progress of green chemistry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physical Chemistry and Chemical Physics)
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29 pages, 3216 KB  
Article
Optimized Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Reveals Salvia transsylvanica as a Rosmarinic Acid-Rich Endemic Sage with Antioxidant Potential
by Maria-Doroteia Brudiu, Alexandru Nicolescu, Adrian Gabriel Moroșan, Adriana Cristina Urcan, Laurian Vlase, Ana-Maria Vlase, Andrei Mocan and Gianina Crișan
Antioxidants 2026, 15(5), 561; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15050561 - 28 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 733
Abstract
Salvia transsylvanica was investigated as a source of bioactive metabolites by optimizing hydroethanolic ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and comparing it with classical preparations. A D-optimal quadratic design was applied to aerial parts to evaluate the effects of ultrasonic amplitude, extraction time, and ethanol concentration [...] Read more.
Salvia transsylvanica was investigated as a source of bioactive metabolites by optimizing hydroethanolic ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and comparing it with classical preparations. A D-optimal quadratic design was applied to aerial parts to evaluate the effects of ultrasonic amplitude, extraction time, and ethanol concentration on total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity (ABTS, DPPH), yielding models with good fit and predictive ability. The optimal conditions (24% amplitude, 12 min, 38% ethanol) were then applied to aerial parts, flowers, and leaves, affording extracts with high TPC values (up to 240 mg GAE/g extract) and antioxidant activities comparable to aqueous infusions and 70% hydroethanolic macerates, with FRAP and DPPH values above 400 mg TE/g dw. Targeted HPLC-MS analysis revealed a Salvia-typical phenolic profile dominated by rosmarinic acid (up to 20 mg/g extract), methyl rosmarinate, caffeic acid derivatives, salvianolic acid K, and flavone glycosides (luteolin-7-O-glucoside and apigenin-7-O-glucoside), with leaf extracts generally richest in phenolics and antioxidant capacity. Conversely, macerates showed superior recovery of phytosterols and tocopherols. The extracts displayed moderate, selective antibacterial effects, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones up to 4 mm for flower-based preparations. Overall, UAE emerged as an efficient, green strategy for a rapid recovery of phenolic antioxidants from S. transsylvanica, while classical maceration complements it for lipophilic constituents, supporting the valorization of this endemic sage. Full article
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26 pages, 1718 KB  
Article
Influence of Ethanol on Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Cocoa Pod Husk and Their Antioxidant, Antihypertensive, and Antihyperglycemic Activity
by Fanny Adabel González-Alejo, Areli Carrera-Lanestosa, Mario Moscosa-Santillán, Ricardo García-Alamilla, Jesús Alfredo Araujo-León, Diakaridia Sangaré, Juan José Acevedo-Fernández and Pedro García-Alamilla
ChemEngineering 2026, 10(4), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemengineering10040043 - 27 Mar 2026
Viewed by 1337
Abstract
Cocoa pod husk (CPH), a major agro-industrial residue, contains valuable bioactive compounds whose recovery can support sustainable waste valorization. This study evaluated the influence of increasing ethanol concentrations on the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of bioactive compounds from CPH and their antioxidant, antihypertensive, and [...] Read more.
Cocoa pod husk (CPH), a major agro-industrial residue, contains valuable bioactive compounds whose recovery can support sustainable waste valorization. This study evaluated the influence of increasing ethanol concentrations on the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of bioactive compounds from CPH and their antioxidant, antihypertensive, and antihyperglycemic activity. Dried and milled CPH was extracted using ethanol–water mixtures (0–100% ethanol) under fixed ultrasonic conditions. Cocoa pod husk powder characterization and the resulting extracts were analyzed in terms of chemical composition (lignocellulosic compounds, proximate and elemental composition, and bromatological composition), antioxidant capacity, and in vivo antihypertensive and antihyperglycemic effects in Wistar rats. The results showed that solvent polarity strongly modulated extraction efficiency: absolute ethanol yielded the highest phenolic (171.43 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (132.05 mg QE/g) content, whereas hydroalcoholic mixtures, particularly 50:50, enhanced overall antioxidant performance, especially in FRAP. The chemical analysis results showed the selective recovery of compounds such as quercetin, hesperidin, and theobromine, and FTIR-PCA results revealed distinct solvent-dependent chemical profiles. In vivo assays indicated modest blood pressure stabilization and a more pronounced antihyperglycemic effect after chronic administration. Overall, UAE proved an effective, rapid, and solvent-efficient method for CPH valorization, highlighting its potential for producing natural antioxidants applicable to food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic formulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Separation Techniques and Circular Economy)
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16 pages, 1808 KB  
Article
Phytochemical Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Camellia hakodae Ninh Flowers
by Nguyen Hoang Thao My, Nguyen Huu Lac Thuy, Vo Thi Kim Khuyen and Nguyen Duc Tuan
Molecules 2026, 31(7), 1088; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31071088 - 26 Mar 2026
Viewed by 728
Abstract
Camellia hakodae Ninh flowers are an endemic Vietnamese species with limited phytochemical and biological characterization. This study aimed to characterize the phytochemical profile and evaluate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the total flower extract. Ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) and maceration with methanol and ethanol [...] Read more.
Camellia hakodae Ninh flowers are an endemic Vietnamese species with limited phytochemical and biological characterization. This study aimed to characterize the phytochemical profile and evaluate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the total flower extract. Ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) and maceration with methanol and ethanol at different concentrations were carried out to evaluate the efficiency of extracting total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), quantified by colorimetric assays, along with the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the resulting extracts. The highest TPC (94.9 ± 4.5 mg GAE/g) and TFC (3.1 ± 0.2 mg QE/g) were obtained using UAE with 70% methanol, while maceration with 70% ethanol showed comparable TPC values. The optimized extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity with an IC50 of 29.06 µg/mL, close to that of ascorbic acid (28.16 µg/mL) and significant anti-inflammatory activity in the proteinase inhibition assay (IC50 = 2.72 mg/mL) compared to acetylsalicylic acid (IC50 = 3.16 mg/mL). GC-MS and LC-QTOF-MS/MS analyses revealed diverse metabolites, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, fatty acids, terpenoids, and nitrogen-containing compounds, with representative constituents, such as quinic acid, catechins, flavonol glycosides, and loliolide, providing strong chemical evidence for the observed bioactivities. This integrated study demonstrates that C. hakodae flower is a rich source of multifunctional bioactive compounds and highlights its strong potential for applications in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and cosmeceuticals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Evaluation of Plant Extracts, 2nd Edition)
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29 pages, 2614 KB  
Article
Sustainable Extraction of Hedera helix Bioactive Compounds via Synergy of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent and Ultrasound: Process Optimization, Mechanistic Insights and Anti-Colon Cancer Activity
by Tangtang Li, Kai Hua, Shuya Ye, Juzhao Liu, Hongliang Chen, Yiming Sun, Xiaoxia Shen and Qi Cui
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(5), 2295; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27052295 - 28 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 947
Abstract
Hedera helix (HE) contains diverse bioactive constituents, including triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which exhibit various pharmacological activities. In this study, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) combined with natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) was employed to enhance the extraction efficiency and elucidate the underlying [...] Read more.
Hedera helix (HE) contains diverse bioactive constituents, including triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which exhibit various pharmacological activities. In this study, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) combined with natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) was employed to enhance the extraction efficiency and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Among the tested formulations, a ternary system composed of malonic acid (Mal), N,N′-dimethylurea (DMU), and 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BDO) achieved the highest efficiency for extracting eight target compounds from the HE leaves. In addition, the key interactions among NADES components were confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, providing valuable insights into the extraction mechanism. The UAE process was systematically optimized through single-factor experiments. Subsequently, response surface methodology (RSM) identified the optimal conditions as ultrasonic time of 45 min, solid/liquid ratio of 1:54 g/mL, and ultrasonic temperature of 42 °C. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) elucidated the microstructural alterations in plant cell walls induced by NADES-UAE, alongside the enhanced penetration and disruption mechanisms. In vitro bioactivity revealed that the NADES-extracted HE exerted strong inhibitory effect on HT-29 colon cancer cells. Overall, these findings demonstrate the high effectiveness and sustainability of NADES-UAE for extracting HE bioactive compounds and provide valuable implications for the industrial-scale production of plant-based functional products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioactives and Nutraceuticals)
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16 pages, 966 KB  
Article
Cellulose-Rich Polysaccharide Extracts with Gel-Forming Potential and Improved Antioxidant Properties from Stem (Vitis vinifera L.) By-Products: Ultrasound-Assisted Aqueous Extraction and Characterization
by Francesca Comas-Serra, Valeria S. Eim, Rafael Minjares-Fuentes, Víctor M. Rodríguez-González and Antoni Femenia
Gels 2026, 12(2), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels12020154 - 9 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 899
Abstract
The valorization of wine by-products aligns with circular bioeconomy principles. This study investigates the ultrasound-assisted aqueous extraction (UAE) of bioactive compounds and cell wall polysaccharides from Syrah grape stems (Vitis vinifera L.) to produce polysaccharide extracts with the intrinsic potential to form [...] Read more.
The valorization of wine by-products aligns with circular bioeconomy principles. This study investigates the ultrasound-assisted aqueous extraction (UAE) of bioactive compounds and cell wall polysaccharides from Syrah grape stems (Vitis vinifera L.) to produce polysaccharide extracts with the intrinsic potential to form cellulose-rich gels with enhanced antioxidant properties. Extractions were performed at three temperatures (10, 20, and 50 °C) and three ultrasonic power densities (120, 206, and 337 W/L), and compared to conventional extraction (CE, 200 rpm). The results demonstrated that UAE significantly accelerated the extraction kinetics for total phenolics (TP), flavonols, and antioxidant capacity (ABTS, FRAP), achieving up to a 3.1-fold increase in TP yield at 20 °C. Notably, UAE at 337 W/L and 20 °C produced antioxidant levels equivalent to those obtained by CE at 50 °C, enabling high efficiency at lower, compound-preserving temperatures. Carbohydrate analysis revealed that the extracts were inherently “cellulose-rich” (glucose ~49–52 mol%), with co-extracted pectins and hemicelluloses constituting a composite polysaccharide matrix with inherent gel-forming capacity, as evidenced by its composition. While total polysaccharide yield was maximized at 10 °C, UAE’s primary effect was the facilitation of extraction and potential structural modification of polymers rather than increasing bulk yield. The process reduced extraction times by 3- to over 6-fold to achieve equivalent bioactive yields compared to CE. This work establishes UAE with water as a process aligned with green chemistry principles, an efficient strategy for the integrated, one-step recovery of antioxidant phenolics and gel-forming polysaccharides from grape stems, transforming this underutilized residue into a multifunctional extract precursor for cellulose-rich hydrogels suitable for food and pharmaceutical applications. Full article
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27 pages, 13489 KB  
Article
Optimization of Bioactive Compound Extraction from Prunus spinosa L. Fruits Using Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction with Food-Grade Glycerin: A Combined RSM–ANN Approach
by Asmaa Berkati, Nadir Ben Hamiche, Amina Kribeche, Louiza Himed, Salah Merniz, Maria D’Elia, Rita Celano and Luca Rastrelli
Antioxidants 2026, 15(2), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15020202 - 3 Feb 2026
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1658
Abstract
Within the framework of green chemistry and wild fruit valorization, this study optimizes the extraction of bioactive compounds from Prunus spinosa L. fruits using glycerin-based ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) were comparatively employed to model the [...] Read more.
Within the framework of green chemistry and wild fruit valorization, this study optimizes the extraction of bioactive compounds from Prunus spinosa L. fruits using glycerin-based ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) were comparatively employed to model the process. Significant improvements in extraction efficiency were achieved, with total phenolic content increasing from 9.28 to 23.22 mg GAE/g DW, total flavonoid content from 6.53 to 21.65 mg CE/g DW, and antioxidant activity (DPPH assay) from 57.04% to 86.34%. While both models performed well, ANN demonstrated slightly higher predictive accuracy, highlighting its potential for capturing complex, non-linear relationships in the extraction process. We identified the optimal extraction conditions as 9 min extraction time, 100% ultrasonic amplitude, and 40% water in glycerin, and these conditions were experimentally validated. UHPLC-DAD-HRMS/MS profiling revealed a rich phytochemical fingerprint dominated by phenolic acids, caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, and flavonol glycosides, and revealed largely overlapping qualitative phytochemical profiles between hydroglyceric and ethanolic extracts. Comparative extraction using 70% ethanol under identical conditions resulted in lower TPC, TFC, and antioxidant activity, indicating the improved efficiency of glycerin under the investigated conditions. Overall, the optimized glycerin-based UAE provides a sustainable, food-safe approach for extracting bioactive compounds from underutilized P. spinosa fruits. These results support its application in functional foods and in nutraceutical and cosmetic formulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Extraction of Antioxidant from Natural Source)
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21 pages, 2963 KB  
Article
Effect of Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction on the Structural and Physiological Activity of Jackfruit Polysaccharides
by Jinmei Hu, Zongcheng Luo, Fengzhen You, Donghui Luo, Fengchuan Ma, Zhongsheng Tang and Siming Zhu
Foods 2026, 15(1), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15010132 - 2 Jan 2026
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1599
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) on the physicochemical properties, biological activities, and intestinal flora regulatory capacity of jackfruit polysaccharides (JPs). Under optimized UAE conditions (liquid-to-solid ratio 30 mL/g, extraction time 30 min, power 90 W), the yield [...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate the effects of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) on the physicochemical properties, biological activities, and intestinal flora regulatory capacity of jackfruit polysaccharides (JPs). Under optimized UAE conditions (liquid-to-solid ratio 30 mL/g, extraction time 30 min, power 90 W), the yield of JP reached 8.70 ± 0.11%. Compared with hot-water-extracted jackfruit polysaccharides (HAE-JPs), ultrasonic-assisted extracted jackfruit polysaccharides (UAE-JPs) exhibited a lower molecular weight, a smaller particle size, and a significant 11.5-fold increase in galacturonic acid content. Structural analyses confirmed that UAE-JPs retained a triple-helix and highly branched conformation but with enhanced exposure of acidic monosaccharides. These structural modifications contributed to superior antioxidant activity and enzyme inhibition ability, demonstrated by its lower IC50 values against DPPH, ABTS radicals, and α-glucosidase. Crucially, in vitro fecal fermentation revealed that UAE-JPs and HAE-JPs differentially modulated the gut microbiota. UAE-JPs preferentially promoted the proliferation of Lactobacillus (an increase of 27.04%) and Bifidobacterium, facilitating short-term acidification. In contrast, HAE-JPs enriched butyrate-producing bacteria like Clostridium (increase of 18.56%). Both polysaccharides significantly inhibited the growth of Fusobacterium (a decrease of 5.23%) related to cancer. Consequently, this study establishes UAE as a green and efficient technique capable of not only modifying the structure of JPs but also precisely tailoring their prebiotic functionality, which ultimately demonstrates the potential of UAE-JPs as a functional food ingredient with enhanced bioactivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Extraction, Structure and Bioactivities of Plant Polysaccharides)
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