Search Results (284)

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

Introduction: Oxidative stress is a key factor in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases, especially in postmenopausal women. Xylitol, a sugar alcohol with potential antioxidant properties, may affect oxidative balance when used as a sugar substitute. Aim: This pilot study aimed to assess the effect of replacing sucrose with xylitol on serum antioxidant capacity in postmenopausal women. Methods: This study included 34 women aged 50 to 65 years who successively consumed 5 g/d, 10 g/d, and 15 g/d of xylitol. The dietary intervention lasted a total of 6 weeks, with each phase covering a 2-week period. Diet was assessed twice based on a 7-day dietary interview (Diet 6.0, NIZP–PZH, Warsaw). The material for this study was venous blood. Antioxidant capacity was determined using the DPPH radical scavenging method and the ABTS cation radical scavenging method. Results: In both methods, a significant increase in serum antioxidant potential was observed after replacing sugar with xylitol (p < 0.0001). An increase in the ability to neutralize free radicals was observed in almost all women studied. Additional analysis of the effect of selected nutrients on the obtained effects of the nutritional intervention showed that the most significant effect could potentially be exerted by manganese, maltose, sucrose, and mercury, and the strongest positive correlation was exerted by vitamin A, retinol, and vitamin E. Although the values obtained in the constructed models were not statistically significant, the large effect indicates potentially significant relationships that could have a significant impact on serum antioxidant potential in the studied group of women. Conclusions: The results suggest a potential role of xylitol in enhancing antioxidant defense mechanisms in menopausal women. Although the sample size was relatively small, this study was powered at approximately 80% to detect large effects, supporting the reliability of the observed results. Nevertheless, given the pilot nature of this study, further research with larger cohorts is warranted to confirm these preliminary observations and to clarify the clinical significance of xylitol supplementation in populations exposed to oxidative stress. Full article

Background/Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a health related threat world-wide. Biosynthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using plant extracts have been reported to exhibit certain biological activity. This study aimed to biosynthesize AuNPs using an aqueous extract of Eruca sativa leaves and to evaluate their biocompatibility, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant properties. Methods: AuNPs were biosynthesized using an aqueous extract of Eruca sativa leaves. Their biocompatibility was evaluated through hemolytic activity and assessments of hepatic and renal functions in rats. AuNPs were biologically evaluated as antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. Results: The AuNPs exhibited particle sizes of 27.78 nm (XRD) and 69.41 nm (AFM). Hemolysis assays on red blood cells revealed negligible hemolytic activity (<1%). Hepatic enzyme levels, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were studied. ALT, AST, and ALP levels showed no significant changes compared to the negative control. However, LDH levels were elevated at higher concentration (52.8 µg/mL), while the lower concentration (26.4 µg/mL) appeared to be safer. Renal biomarkers, urea and creatinine, showed no significant changes at either concentration, indicating minimal nephrotoxicity. The antimicrobial activity of AuNPs, plant extract, and gold salt was tested against five microorganisms: two Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae), two Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and a fungal strain (Candida albicans). The AuNPs exhibited minimum inhibition concentrations (MICs) of 13.2 µg/mL against S. aureus and S. pneumoniae, 26.4 µg/mL against E. coli and C. albicans, and 39.6 µg/mL against P. aeruginosa, suggesting selectivity towards Gram-positive bacteria. Furthermore, the AuNPs demonstrated strong antioxidant activity, surpassing that of vitamin C. Conclusions: The biosynthesized AuNPs exhibited promising biocompatibility, selective antimicrobial properties, and potent antioxidant activity, supporting their potential application in combating the AMR. Full article

Patients undergo total knee arthroplasty (TKA) at younger ages with the expectation that the devices will perform well over two to three decades. During this time, the ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) bearing material properties of the implant may change due to aging induced by radiation and oxygen diffusion or other effects. Vitamin E or other antioxidants are promoted since several years to improve the oxidation resistance of UHMWPE. To compare the effectivity of these substances against established materials, a six weeks aging process was used and the chemical, mechanical and bio-tribological properties were analysed. Highly crosslinked and two weeks aged UHMWPE served as a reference for the currently established aging standards and virgin UHMWPE was aged for six weeks to separate the effects of crosslinking and vitamin E blending. Six weeks artificially aging changed the chemical, mechanical and bio-tribological properties of cross-linked UHMWPE significantly compared to only two weeks artificially aging, leading to cracks and delamination during the highly demanding activities wear test. The degradative effect of extended aging was also observed for virgin UHMWPE. These observations are in good accordance to retrieval findings. Minor changes on the chemical properties were observed for the cross-linked UHWMPE blended with vitamin E without impact on the mechanical and bio-tribological properties. Full article

Barley is a good source of dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Moreover, it is a source of polyphenols, which recently have been studied for their antioxidant properties. Barley generally is not eaten in its raw form, and the necessary processing influences the polyphenol content. This study evaluated the content of polyphenol compounds and antioxidant activity before and after thermal treatment typical for that carried out in households (i.e., boiling and subsequent microwave heating). Six genetic materials of hull-less barley were chosen for this study. The results showed that all tested barley genotypes were good sources of polyphenols. The studied thermal processes led to certain reductions in polyphenol content. The antioxidant activity of soluble phenolic compounds and the effects of heat treatment, as analysed by Trolox equivalent antioxidant activity (TEAC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay (DPPH) methods, differed. In the case of the DPPH method, the boiling and subsequent microwave heating indicated growth in antioxidant activity for almost all genotypes. When using the TEAC method, the results were not so clear, as the indicated activity both increased and declined. In the case of insoluble polyphenols, the antioxidant activity decreased for almost all genotypes regardless of the measurement method used. Full article

Male infertility is a pathological condition that affects many subjects and for which a progressive increase in cases has been observed in recent years. The mechanisms underlying male reproductive system dysfunction are not fully understood and the specific drugs use has not produced optimal results. Therefore, the focus on developing new therapeutic options to prevent or treat this dysfunction is continuously growing. Defective sperm function has been associated with oxidative stress (OS) due to reactive oxygen species (ROS) excessive production. OS is related to mitochondrial dysfunction, lipid peroxidation, DNA damage and fragmentation, and ultimately sperm cell death. Many defense mechanisms to protect from ROS injuries have been developed; natural antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E are able to interact with oxidizing radicals, neutralizing them. Interestingly, resveratrol (RSV), a natural polyphenol with proven health-promoting actions, has been found to be an effective free radical scavenger in several in vitro and in vivo models, providing protection against OS. In this review, we discussed mechanisms related to the modulation of redox homeostasis in the testis and how the alteration of these processes can determine a damage in testicular function; particularly, we focused on the antioxidant properties of RSV that could give beneficial effects in preserving male fertility. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aims to present a strategic approach to enhancing the photostability and antioxidative resilience of curcumin and capsaicin by integrating selected natural stabilizers within a nanoemulsion-based delivery system. Methods: Coffee extract (Coffea arabica Linn.), along with its active components and vitamin E-containing natural oils, was assessed in terms of improving the photostabilizing and antioxidative retention abilities of curcumin and capsaicin. An optimized ratio of the active mixture was then loaded into a nanoformulation. Results: The analysis of active contents with validated high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays confirmed the stabilization enhancement after irradiation with UV and white light for 72,000–84,000 lux hours. The optimized combination of coffee extract with turmeric and chili mixtures loaded into the optimized nanoemulsion enhanced the half-lives (T_1/2) of curcumin and capsaicin by 416% and 390%, respectively. The interactions of curcumin and capsaicin with caffeine and chlorogenic acid were elucidated using computational calculations. Interaction energies (E_int), HOMO-LUMO energy gap (HLG) analysis, and global reactivity descriptors revealed hydrogen bonding interactions be-tween capsaicin and chlorogenic acid, as well as between curcumin and caffeine. Conclusions: By leveraging the synergistic antioxidative properties of coffee extract and vitamin E within a nanoemulsion matrix, this study overcomes the intrinsic stability limitations of curcumin and capsaicin, offering a robust platform for future pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. Full article

Due to the roles of oxidative stress, inflammation, and neurotransmitter imbalances in cognitive and mental dysfunction, we aimed to develop a functional drink with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties as well as the potential to support neurotransmitter balance for improved cognition and mental health. The Teng Mo, Fen Hong Mee, and Hong Chon Su guava varieties were screened for their polyphenol and flavonoid contents, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and suppressive effects on acetylcholinesterase (AChE), monoamine oxidase (MAO), GABA transaminase (GABA-T), and glutamate decarboxylase (GAD). Juice from the cultivar with the highest potential was selected and mixed with mint and honey syrups, pomelo-derived dietary fiber, ascorbic acid, agar, water, and fruit puree (pear/apple/orange) to create three guava jelly drink formulations. The formulation with pear puree showed the highest biological potential and was selected as the final product. It is rich in vitamin C, gallic acid, and dietary fiber, and provides approximately 37 Kcal/100 g. It also promotes the growth of lactic acid-producing bacteria in the culture. Thus, our drink shows the potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, improve neurotransmitter regulation, and stimulate the gut–brain axis, thereby promoting cognition and mental wellness. However, clinical research is essential to confirm these potential benefits. Full article

A transdermal drug delivery system based on hydrogel patches was explored, leveraging their sustained release properties and biocompatibility. Despite these advantages, conventional hydrogels often lack proper adhesion to the skin, limiting their practical application. To address this issue, we designed a skin-adhesive hydrogel using a polyacrylamide (PAM)/polydopamine (PDA) dual-network structure. The matrix combines the mechanical toughness of PAM with the strong adhesive properties of PDA, derived from mussel foot proteins, enabling firm tissue attachment and robust performance under physiological conditions. To demonstrate its applicability, the hydrogel was integrated with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles encapsulating the hydrophobic antioxidant vitamin E as a model compound. The resulting PAM/PDA@VitE hydrogel system exhibited improved swelling behavior, high water retention, and prolonged release of α-tocopherol. These results suggest that the PAM/PDA hydrogel platform is a versatile vehicle not only for vitamin E, but also for the transdermal delivery of various cosmetic and therapeutic agents. Full article

The growing interest in functional foods has directed scientific attention toward alternative milk sources, particularly camel and donkey milk, which have been traditionally consumed for their purported health benefits across diverse cultures. These milk sources possess unique nutritional profiles and bioactive compositions that differ substantially from conventional bovine milk. This review examines the current scientific understanding of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant bioactivities of camel and donkey milk, exploring their bioactive constituents and therapeutic potential. Camel and donkey milk demonstrate notable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may exceed those of conventional milk sources. Key bioactive compounds include lactoferrin, lysozyme, immunoglobulins, bioactive peptides, vitamins C and E, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Mechanistic studies reveal that milk from donkeys and camels suppresses inflammatory pathways through NF-κB inhibition, cytokine modulation (reducing IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α while enhancing IL-10), and antioxidant pathway activation via Nrf2-ARE signaling. Donkey milk exhibits particularly high lysozyme content and demonstrates significant immunomodulatory effects, while camel milk shows remarkable therapeutic potential in diabetes management, nephroprotection, and hepatoprotection. Preclinical studies demonstrate efficacy in treating oxidative stress-related disorders, inflammatory conditions, metabolic dysfunction, and tissue injury models. Altogether, the published data show that camel and donkey milk represent promising functional foods with significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactivities mediated through multiple molecular pathways. Their unique bioactive profiles offer therapeutic potential for various health conditions, warranting further clinical investigation and development as nutraceutical interventions. Full article

Skin aging is a complex process influenced by several factors, including UV exposure, environmental stressors, and lifestyle choices. The demand for effective, natural skincare products has driven research into plant-based oils rich in bioactive compounds. Rosehip oil has garnered attention for its high content of carotenoids, phenolics, and antioxidants, which are known for their anti-aging, photoprotective, and skin-rejuvenating properties. Despite the growing interest in rosehip oil, limited studies have investigated its efficacy on human skin using advanced imaging technologies. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the efficacy of cold-pressed Rosa canina seed oil on facial skin characteristics, specifically wrinkles, ultraviolet (UV) spot reduction, and erythema mitigation, using imaging technologies (the VISIA analysis system). Seed oil pressed from R. canina collected from the Băișoara area of Cluj County has been selected for this study due to its high carotenoid, phenolic, and antioxidant contents. The oil has also been analyzed for the content of individual carotenoids (i.e., lutein, lycopene, β Carotene, and zeaxanthin) using HPLC-DAD (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography—Diode Array Detector), along with lutein and zeaxanthin esters and diesters. After the preliminary screening of multiple Rosa species for carotenoid, phenolic, and antioxidant contents, the R. canina sample with the highest therapeutic potential was selected. A cohort of 27 volunteers (aged 30–65) underwent a five-week treatment protocol, wherein three drops of the selected rosehip oil were topically applied to the face daily. The VISIA imaging was conducted before and after the treatment to evaluate changes in skin parameters, including the wrinkle depth, UV-induced spots, porphyrins, and texture. Regarding the bioactivities, rosehip oil showed a significant total carotenoids content (28.398 μg/mL), with the highest levels in the case of the β-carotene (4.49 μg/mL), lutein (4.33 μg/mL), and zexanthin (10.88 μg/mL) contents. Results indicated a significant reduction in mean wrinkle scores across several age groups, with notable improvements in individuals with deeper baseline wrinkles. UV spots also showed visible declines, suggesting ideal photoprotective and anti-pigmentary effects attributable to the oil’s high vitamin A and carotenoid content. Porphyrin levels, often correlated with bacterial activity, decreased in most subjects, hinting at an additional antimicrobial or microbiome-modulatory property. However, skin responses varied, possibly due to individual differences in skin sensitivity, environmental factors, or compliance with sun protection. Overall, the topical application of R. canina oil appeared to improve the facial skin quality, reduce the appearance of age-related markers, and support skin health. These findings reinforce the potential use of rosehip oil in anti-aging skincare formulations. Further long-term, large-scale studies are warranted to refine dosing regimens, investigate mechanisms of action, and explore synergistic effects with other bioactive compounds. Full article

The demand for functional beverages has increased significantly in recent years as society places more and more emphasis on healthy lifestyles and disease prevention. Functional beverages may contain various health-promoting, bioactive compounds (e.g., antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, proteins, etc.). These ingredients originate from sources including fruits (e.g., red berries), vegetables (e.g., spinach), nuts (e.g., flaxseeds), and herbs (e.g., turmeric), or can be added as separate components (e.g., prebiotics). Their nutritional properties qualify pseudocereals (quinoa, buckwheat, and amaranth) as ideal bases for functional beverages. They are high in antioxidants (e.g., polyphenols), vitamins (e.g., folate), and minerals (e.g., iron). Their high protein content (5.7–25.3%, about three times higher than that of maize) improves the nutritional profile of plant-based drinks. They have a balanced protein and amino acid composition, as they contain all the essential amino acids (among which lysine is present in high amounts) and are gluten-free. The in vitro protein digestibility of pseudocereals is also outstanding (PDCAAS: quinoa (0.85), amaranth (0.70), and buckwheat (0.78), while those for wheat, rice, and maize are 0.42, 0.56, and 0.47, respectively). Given these benefits, trends in producing and consuming plant-based, especially pseudocereal-based, functional beverages are highlighted in the present review. Full article

Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition marked by lipid accumulation, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, leading to narrowed arteries and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Key proteins involved in this process include PCSK9, LOX-1, ROS, CD36, and ABCA1. PCSK9 degrades LDL receptors, raising blood LDL levels, while LOX-1 and CD36 promote the uptake of oxidized LDL by macrophages, enhancing foam cell formation. ABCA1, on the other hand, facilitates cholesterol efflux to HDL, reducing atherosclerosis risk. Red watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), rich in lycopene, citrulline, and vitamins A, C, and E, has antioxidant and cardioprotective properties. This study aimed to explore the effects of red watermelon extract on the expression of PCSK9, LOX-1, ROS, TNFα, CD36, and ABCA1 in a Wistar rat model of atherosclerosis. In a randomized control trial, male Wistar rats were induced with a high-fat diet (margarine) and treated with red watermelon extract for four weeks. The findings showed that red watermelon extract reduced the expression of PCSK9, LOX-1, CD36, ROS, and TNFα, leading to lower LDL levels, and inhibited foam cell formation. It also increased ABCA1 expression, thus promoting cholesterol efflux and higher HDL levels. Path analysis confirmed that the anti-atherogenic effect of C. lanatus was primarily mediated through the PCSK9-ABCA1-FC axis. This suggests that red watermelon may serve as a natural agent for atherosclerosis prevention by regulating lipid metabolism pathways. Full article

Vitamin E is widely used in cosmetics and dermatological applications for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties, yet its industrial use is limited by poor stability and bioavailability. To address these challenges, this study developed zein-based microstructures encapsulating vitamin E using electrohydrodynamic (EHD) techniques and evaluated how zein concentration affects morphology and release behavior. The SEM analysis showed that biopolymer (zein) concentration significantly affects microstructure morphology. At low concentrations (1%, 5%, and 15% (w/v)), micro/nanoparticles are formed, and high concentrations (30% (w/v)) yielded only fibers. The average size of the structures produced with zein (1–15% w/v) ranged from 0.38 to 0.90 µm, as measured using the program ImageJ (v1.54d). Structures containing vitamin E were generally smaller than those without. For electrospun fibers made with 30% zein, diameters ranged from 0.49 to 0.74 µm, with vitamin E-containing fibers also being thinner. Conductivity also influenced morphology; higher conductivity developed fibers, while lower conductivity formed particles. The solution with 15% (w/v) zein + 1% (w/w) vitamin E showed a conductivity of 1276 μS, similar to the 15% zein solution (1280 μS), indicating that vitamin E addition had no significant effect on conductivity. Release assays revealed that structures produced with low zein concentrations led to immediate release, while structured made with higher concentrations, prolonged release. A preliminary cosmetic formulation test has been conducted. The vitamin E microstructures were successfully incorporated into aloe vera hydrogel and coconut oil to show their potential for cosmetic applications. Full article

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies in men and represents a major challenge for modern medicine. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role of vitamins in the pathogenesis of this disease, as well as their potential impact on prevention and supportive treatment. Studies conducted so far suggest that certain vitamins may exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, thus supporting the immune response, which may influence cancer risk and treatment efficacy. This article aims to present the current state of knowledge on the role of vitamins in prostate cancer, focusing on their potential importance both in prevention and as an adjunct to therapy. Vitamins A, D, E, C, and B-group compounds may influence prostate cancer development and progression through mechanisms such as antioxidant activity, regulation of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and immune modulation. Despite promising insights from basic research, clinical studies remain inconclusive, and the effects of vitamin supplementation depend on factors like dosage, form, and individual variability. Therefore, a balanced diet rich in natural vitamins is recommended, while further research is needed to clarify their therapeutic and preventive roles in prostate cancer. Full article