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Antioxidants
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Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects
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Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects

A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921). This special issue belongs to the section "Health Outcomes of Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2022) | Viewed by 146942

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Evangelos Zoidis

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Laboratory of Nutritional Physiology and Feeding, Department of Animal Science, School of Animal Biosciences, Agricultural University of Athens, 75 Iera Odos Str., 11855 Athens, Greece
Interests: nutritional physiology; natural antioxidants; selenium and selenoproteins; elemental metabolomics; molecular metabolism
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleague,

Natural products contain a large group of antioxidant compounds endowed with reducing and radical scavenging properties. Polyphenols, carbohydrates and derivatives, terpenoids, and essential oil components are only some of the compounds that are capable of counteracting oxidative damages. In vivo, they quench radical species, peroxides, and promoters of oxidative reactions and act on redox-sensitive transcription factors to reduce oxidative stress.

Research has shown that the addition of natural antioxidant compounds to foods or animals’ feed reduces oxidation, improves overall product quality, and increases shelf life. Recently, natural bioactive compounds have also been studied against attacking and resistant pathogenic microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, and fungi whose higher resistance to conventional drugs represents a dramatic problem for human health and healthcare. Moreover, their supplementation can reduce cellular oxidative stress, typical of cardiovascular, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases, and certain types of cancer.

Thus, due to such a broad repertoire of beneficial effects, bioactive compounds of natural products are always interesting fields of research. In addition, it must be taken into account that agricultural by-products and waste products can also represent a precious source of antioxidants.

We cordially invite you to submit your research findings to this Special Issue, which has the aim to collect original research papers, reviews, clinical trials, and meta-analyses which cover all aspects of natural antioxidants’ applications, biological properties, and antioxidant and health effects. In particular, papers dealing with plant antioxidants and natural products improving antioxidant capacity through agricultural, analytical, biochemical, molecular, or technological approaches, innovative uses in food and feed science as antioxidants and antimicrobial, or elucidating antioxidant mechanisms are particularly welcome. In addition, please note that in studies of complex mixtures of natural products, the characterization of chemicals using analytical methodologies, such as HPLC, MS, LC–MS, HPLC–MS, and NMR, should be included.

We look forward to your contribution.

Dr. Evangelos Zoidis
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Antioxidants is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • agricultural by-products
  • antioxidant compounds
  • bioactive compounds
  • essential oils
  • health effects
  • oxidative stress
  • polyphenols
  • radical scavenging
  • shelf life
  • waste products

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Published Papers (44 papers)

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22 pages, 5427 KiB  
Article
Alhagi maurorum Ethanolic Extract Rescues Hepato-Neurotoxicity and Neurobehavioral Alterations Induced by Lead in Rats via Abrogating Oxidative Stress and the Caspase-3-Dependent Apoptotic Pathway
by Taghred M. Saber, Azza M. A. Abo-Elmaaty, Enas N. Said, Rasha R. Beheiry, Attia A. A. Moselhy, Fathy Elsayed Abdelgawad, Mariam H. Arisha, Taisir Saber, Ahmed Hamed Arisha and Esraa M. Fahmy
Antioxidants 2022, 11(10), 1992; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11101992 - 07 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1751
Abstract
This work investigated the probable protective effect of an Alhagi maurorum ethanolic extract on the hepatotoxicity and neurotoxicity accompanied by neurobehavioral deficits caused by lead in rats. Rats in four groups were orally administered distilled water, ethanolic extract of A. maurorum (300 mg/kg [...] Read more.
This work investigated the probable protective effect of an Alhagi maurorum ethanolic extract on the hepatotoxicity and neurotoxicity accompanied by neurobehavioral deficits caused by lead in rats. Rats in four groups were orally administered distilled water, ethanolic extract of A. maurorum (300 mg/kg BW daily), lead (100 mg/kg BW daily for 3 months), and lead + A. maurorum extract. The results demonstrated that lead exposure resulted in elevated locomotor activities and sensorimotor deficits associated with a decrease in brain dopamine levels. Moreover, lead exposure significantly increased liver function markers. In addition, the lead-treated rats exhibited extensive liver and brain histological changes and apoptosis. The lead treatment also triggered oxidative stress, as demonstrated by the increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations with a remarkable reduction in the activities of antioxidant enzymes, reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, and transcriptional mRNA levels of antioxidant genes in the liver and brain. Nevertheless, co-treatment with the A. maurorum extract significantly ameliorated the lead-induced toxic effects. These findings indicate that the A. maurorum extract has the ability to protect hepatic and brain tissues against lead exposure in rats through the attenuation of apoptosis and oxidative stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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25 pages, 6592 KiB  
Article
Development of Stilbenoid and Chalconoid Analogues as Potent Tyrosinase Modulators and Antioxidant Agents
by Argyro Vontzalidou, Sapfo-Maria Dimitrakoudi, Konstantinos Tsoukalas, Grigoris Zoidis, Eliza Chaita, Evanthia Dina, Christina Cheimonidi, Ioannis P. Trougakos, George Lambrinidis, Alexios-Leandros Skaltsounis, Emmanuel Mikros and Nektarios Aligiannis
Antioxidants 2022, 11(8), 1593; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11081593 - 17 Aug 2022
Viewed by 1297
Abstract
A number of stilbenoid and chalconoid derivatives were prepared by straightforward methods, and their ability to modulate tyrosinase activity and to scavenge free radicals were evaluated in vitro. The cell-free in vitro evaluation revealed two diarylpropanes, 24 and 25, as potent tyrosinase [...] Read more.
A number of stilbenoid and chalconoid derivatives were prepared by straightforward methods, and their ability to modulate tyrosinase activity and to scavenge free radicals were evaluated in vitro. The cell-free in vitro evaluation revealed two diarylpropanes, 24 and 25, as potent tyrosinase inhibitors, whereas diarylpropenoic acids seemed to enhance the enzymatic activity. An in silico evaluation of the binding affinity of the selected compounds with the crystal structure of tyrosinase was also conducted in order to obtain better insight into the mechanism. Representative synthetic compounds with inhibitory and activating properties were further evaluated in melanoma cell lines B16F1 and B16F10 for their ability to moderate tyrosinase activity and affect melanin production. Dihydrostilbene analogues I and II, exhibited a stronger anti-melanogenic effect than kojic acid through the inhibition of cellular tyrosinase activity and melanin formation, while diarylpropanoic acid 44 proved to be a potent melanogenic factor, inducing cellular tyrosinase activity and melanin formation. Moreover, the antioxidant evaluation disclosed two analogues (29 and 11) with significant free-radical-scavenging activity (12.4 and 20.3 μM), which were 10- and 6-fold more potent than ascorbic acid (122.1 μΜ), respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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17 pages, 2504 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant, Anti-Proliferative Activity and Chemical Fingerprinting of Centaurea calcitrapa against Breast Cancer Cells and Molecular Docking of Caspase-3
by Mourad A. M. Aboul-Soud, Hanane Ennaji, Ashok Kumar, Mohammad A. Alfhili, Ahmed Bari, Maqusood Ahamed, Mohamed Chebaibi, Mohammed Bourhia, Farid Khallouki, Khalid M. Alghamdi and John P. Giesy
Antioxidants 2022, 11(8), 1514; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11081514 - 03 Aug 2022
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2941
Abstract
Centaurea calcitrapa has been intensively utilized in ethnomedicinal practices as a natural therapeutic recipe to cure various ailments. The current study aimed to chemically characterize ethanolic extract of C. calcitrapa (EECC) aerial parts (leaves and shoots) by use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses [...] Read more.
Centaurea calcitrapa has been intensively utilized in ethnomedicinal practices as a natural therapeutic recipe to cure various ailments. The current study aimed to chemically characterize ethanolic extract of C. calcitrapa (EECC) aerial parts (leaves and shoots) by use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses (GC-MS) and investigate its antioxidant and in vitro anticancer activities, elucidating the underlying molecular mechanism by use of flow cytometry-based fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and conducting in silico assessment of binding inhibitory activities of EECC major compounds docked to caspase-3. CG-MS profiling of EECC identified a total of 26 major flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds. DPPH and ABTS assays revealed that EECC exhibits potent antioxidant activity comparable to standard reducing agents. Results of the proliferation assay revealed that EECC exhibit potent, dose-dependent cytotoxic activities against triple-positive (MCF-7) and triple-negative (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer cell models, with IC50 values of 1.3 × 102 and 8.7 × 101 µg/mL, respectively. The observed cytotoxic effect was specific to studied cancer cells since EECC exhibited minimal (~<10%) cytotoxicity against MCF-12, a normal breast cell line. FACS analysis employing annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide double labeling demonstrated that the observed anti-proliferative activity against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 was mediated via apoptotic as well as necrotic signaling transduction processes. The increase in fluorescence intensity associated with DCFH oxidation to DCF, as reported by FACS, indicated that apoptosis is caused by generation of ROS. The use of caspase-3-specific fluorogenic substrate revealed a dose-dependent elevation in caspase-3 substrate-cleavage activity, which further supports EECC-mediated apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. The major EECC compounds were examined for their inhibitory activity against caspase-3 receptor (1HD2) using molecular docking. Three compounds exhibited the highest glide score energy of −5.156, −4.691 and −4.551 kcal/mol, respectively. Phenol, 2,6-dimethoxy established strong binding in caspase-3 receptor of hydrogenic type, with residue ARG 207 and of PI-PI stacking type with residue HIS 121. By contract, hexadecenoic acid showed 3 H-bond with the following residues: ASN 615, ASN 616a and THR 646. Taken together, the current findings reveal that EECC exhibits significant and specific cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells mediated by the generation of ROS and culminating into necrosis and apoptosis. Further investigations of the phytoconstituents-rich C. calcitrapa are therefore warranted against breast as well as other human cancer cell models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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16 pages, 1494 KiB  
Article
Investigation of the Genotoxic, Antigenotoxic and Antioxidant Profile of Different Extracts from Equisetum arvense L.
by Margarita Dormousoglou, Ioanna Efthimiou, Maria Antonopoulou, Damian L. Fetzer, Fabiane Hamerski, Marcos L. Corazza, Maria Papadaki, Samir Santzouk, Stefanos Dailianis and Dimitris Vlastos
Antioxidants 2022, 11(7), 1393; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11071393 - 18 Jul 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2163
Abstract
The present study investigated the cyto-genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of four different extracts of Equisetum arvense L. (common name: field horsetail) on human lymphocytes. Specifically, Soxhlet’s prepared extracts from E. arvense L., using different solvents (S1: methanol (MeOH)-, S2: ethanol (EtOH)-, S3: water-, [...] Read more.
The present study investigated the cyto-genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of four different extracts of Equisetum arvense L. (common name: field horsetail) on human lymphocytes. Specifically, Soxhlet’s prepared extracts from E. arvense L., using different solvents (S1: methanol (MeOH)-, S2: ethanol (EtOH)-, S3: water-, and S4: ethanol/water (EtOH-W)-) were analyzed for (a) their total phenolic and flavonoid content (TPC and TFC, respectively), (b) their antioxidant activity (AA), via the DPPH, FRAP and ABTS assays, and (c) their cyto-genotoxic and/or protective efficiency against the mutagenic agent mitomycin C, via the Cytokinesis Block MicroNucleus assay. All extracts showed increased TPC, TFC, and AA values in almost all cases. S1, S3 and S4 demonstrated no cytotoxic potential, whereas S2 was cytotoxic only at the highest concentrations. Genotoxicity was not observed in the tested extracts. The highest antigenotoxic activity was observed for EtOH-W (S4) extract, which was found to be rich in flavonoids, flavonoid-O-glycosides, phytosterols, phenolic and fatty acids as well as in minerals and mainly in K, Ca, Mg, Si and P, as assessed by using various mass spectrometry techniques. Those findings confirm that E. arvense L. extracts could be valuable candidates for medicinal applications and pharmaceutical products, thus alleviating the effects of more conventional drugs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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12 pages, 1196 KiB  
Article
Copper-Induced Interactions of Caffeic Acid and Sinapic Acid to Generate New Compounds in Artificial Biological Fluid Conditions
by Yusuke Iwasaki, Rie Manabe, Mika Kimoto, Mao Fukuda, Narumi Mase, Mako Miyazawa, Kotomi Hosokawa and Junzo Kamei
Antioxidants 2022, 11(7), 1307; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11071307 - 30 Jun 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1594
Abstract
Active ingredients may be ingested through foods, and they can cause several interactions in the human body. Although drug–drug or drug–food interactions are evaluated before the approval of medicines, several functional food interactions are not well-documented because of the wide range of possible [...] Read more.
Active ingredients may be ingested through foods, and they can cause several interactions in the human body. Although drug–drug or drug–food interactions are evaluated before the approval of medicines, several functional food interactions are not well-documented because of the wide range of possible combinations of interactions. In this study, we examined the chemical reactions between hydroxycinnamic acids (HCAs), a group of polyphenols, and metal ions in artificial gastric juice or artificial intestinal fluid. Caffeic acid (CaA) and sinapic acid (SA) reacted with copper ions under artificial intestinal fluid conditions and produced new compounds. The triple interactions of CaA or SA with iron and copper ions were also examined. Relative to the initial compounds, CaA and SA derivatives produced by condensation exhibited an increased antioxidant and a decreased prooxidant activity. This study revealed a new food ingredient interaction pattern in which new compounds are produced under biological conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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21 pages, 4105 KiB  
Article
Dietary Parsley Seed Mitigates Methomyl-Induced Impaired Growth Performance, Hemato-Immune Suppression, Oxidative Stress, Hepato-Renal Damage, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Susceptibility in Oreochromis niloticus
by Walaa El-Houseiny, Samah Attia Algharib, Eman A. A. Mohamed, Mohamed M. M. Metwally, Yasmina K. Mahmoud, Youssef S. Alghamdi, Mohamed Mohamed Soliman, Yasmina M. Abd-Elhakim and Abd Elhakeem El-Murr
Antioxidants 2022, 11(6), 1185; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11061185 - 16 Jun 2022
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2636
Abstract
The present experiment investigated the potential protective role of parsley (Petroselinum crispum) seed meal (PSM) in alleviating methomyl (MET)-adverse impacts on growth, whole-body composition, hematological indicators, hepatorenal function, immune response, oxidative status, and disease resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For this [...] Read more.
The present experiment investigated the potential protective role of parsley (Petroselinum crispum) seed meal (PSM) in alleviating methomyl (MET)-adverse impacts on growth, whole-body composition, hematological indicators, hepatorenal function, immune response, oxidative status, and disease resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. For this purpose, 225 healthy Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were allotted into five groups (45 fish/group in triplicate). One group was reared in clean water and fed a non-supplemented basal diet, while the other groups were exposed to 20.39 μg L−1 MET and fed a non-fortified basal diet or basal diets supplemented with 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0% of PSM for 60 days. The obtained data revealed significantly lower weight gain, feed intake, and specific growth rate, but higher feed conversion ratio and decreases in crude protein, lipid, and ash contents in the MET-exposed fish. Anemia, leukopenia, lymphocytopenia, and esonipenia were also obvious. Furthermore, MET-exposed fish had significantly higher serum levels of hepatic enzymes and renal damage products. Nevertheless, there was a significant depletion of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants and increased malondialdehyde, myeloperoxidase, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels in MET-exposed fish. The MET exposure significantly depressed lysozyme activity, nitric oxide, complement3, acetylcholinesterase activity, total proteins, globulin, and albumin levels in O. niloticus serum. Furthermore, pathological alterations in the liver and kidney were noted. The relative percentage of survival rate in MET-exposed fish was dramatically reduced on day 14 post-challenge with P. aeruginosa. The inclusion of PSM, on the other hand, greatly alleviated most of the MET-related negative effects. Taken together, the dietary intervention with PSM has a promising role in alleviating MET-deleterious impacts, rendering parsley seeds a viable aqua feed additive for O. niloticus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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13 pages, 3770 KiB  
Article
Silibinin Protects against H2O2-Induced Oxidative Damage in SH-SY5Y Cells by Improving Mitochondrial Function
by Fangfang Tie, Yangyang Fu, Na Hu and Honglun Wang
Antioxidants 2022, 11(6), 1101; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11061101 - 31 May 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2124
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases. Increasing evidence suggests the association of mitochondrial abnormalities with oxidative stress-related neural damage. Silibinin, a natural flavonol compound isolated from Silybum marianum, exhibits multiple biological activities. The present study [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative diseases. Increasing evidence suggests the association of mitochondrial abnormalities with oxidative stress-related neural damage. Silibinin, a natural flavonol compound isolated from Silybum marianum, exhibits multiple biological activities. The present study investigated the effects of silibinin on H2O2-induced oxidative stress in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. Exposure to H2O2 (750 µM) reduced the viability of SH-SY5Y cells, which was coupled with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), abnormal cell morphology, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Remarkably, silibinin (1, 5, and 10 µM) treatment attenuated the H2O2-induced cell death. Moreover, silibinin reduced ROS production and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), increased the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH), and increased mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, silibinin normalized the expression of nuclear factor 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-related and mitochondria-associated proteins. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that silibinin could attenuate H2O2-induced oxidative stress by regulating Nrf2 signaling and improving mitochondrial function in SH-SY5Y cells. The protective effect against oxidative stress suggests silibinin as a potential candidate for preventing neurodegeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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29 pages, 3703 KiB  
Article
Bee Pollen Extracts: Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Properties, and Effect on the Growth of Selected Probiotic and Pathogenic Bacteria
by Cornelia-Ioana Ilie, Eliza Oprea, Elisabeta-Irina Geana, Angela Spoiala, Mihaela Buleandra, Gratiela Gradisteanu Pircalabioru, Irinel Adriana Badea, Denisa Ficai, Ecaterina Andronescu, Anton Ficai and Lia-Mara Ditu
Antioxidants 2022, 11(5), 959; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11050959 - 12 May 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3448
Abstract
This paper evaluated the chemical and biological properties of bee pollen samples from Romania. Firstly, the bee pollen alcoholic extracts (BPEs) were obtained from raw bee pollen harvested by Apis mellifera carpatica bees. The chemical composition of BPE was obtained by determination of [...] Read more.
This paper evaluated the chemical and biological properties of bee pollen samples from Romania. Firstly, the bee pollen alcoholic extracts (BPEs) were obtained from raw bee pollen harvested by Apis mellifera carpatica bees. The chemical composition of BPE was obtained by determination of total phenol content and total flavonoid content, UHPLC-DAD-ESI/MS analysis of phenolic compounds, and GC-MS analysis of fatty acids, esters, and terpenes. Additionally, the antioxidant activity was evaluated by the Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity method. Furthermore, the biological properties of BPE were evaluated (antimicrobial and cytotoxic activity). The raw BP samples studied in this paper had significant phenolic acid and flavonoid content, and moderate fatty acid, ester, and terpene content. P1, P2, and P4 have the highest TPC and TFC levels, and the best antioxidant activity. All BPEs studied had antimicrobial activity on pathogenic strains isolated from the clinic or standard strains. A synergistic antimicrobial effect of the BPEs was observed along with the soluble compounds of L. rhamnosus MF9 and E. faecalis 2M17 against some pathogenic (clinical) strains and, considering the tumour proliferation inhibitory activity, makes BP a potential prebiotic and antitumour agent for the gut environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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18 pages, 9339 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Feeding with Curcumin Affects the Growth, Antioxidant Capacity, Immune Status, Tissue Histoarchitecture, Immune Expression of Proinflammatory Cytokines, and Apoptosis Indicators in Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
by Shimaa A. Amer, Doaa A. El-Araby, Haitham Tartor, Mahmoud Farahat, Nehal I. A. Goda, Mohamed F. M. Farag, Esraa M. Fahmy, Aziza M. Hassan, Mohamed F. Abo El-Maati and Ali Osman
Antioxidants 2022, 11(5), 937; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11050937 - 10 May 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2461
Abstract
The impact of dietary curcumin (CUR) on the growth, antioxidant activity, histomorphology of certain organs, proinflammatory cytokine production, and immune status of Oreochromis niloticus was evaluated. The fingerlings (n = 225, 41.60 ± 0.09 g/fish) were randomly allotted into five experimental groups [...] Read more.
The impact of dietary curcumin (CUR) on the growth, antioxidant activity, histomorphology of certain organs, proinflammatory cytokine production, and immune status of Oreochromis niloticus was evaluated. The fingerlings (n = 225, 41.60 ± 0.09 g/fish) were randomly allotted into five experimental groups in triplicate. Fish were fed basal diets complemented with 0, 200, 400, 600, or 800 mg curcumin/kg diet (CUR0, CUR200, CUR400, CUR600, and CUR800, respectively) for 10 weeks. An increase in fish growth was reported in the CUR200 and CUR400 groups. The feed conversion ratio was enhanced by 15% in the CUR400 group. Fish body protein content was increased in the CUR600 group (p ≤ 0.01). Body fat was decreased, and ash content was increased by CUR supplementation in a level-related way (p < 0.05). The villus height was increased in the CUR400 and CUR600 groups. The villus width was increased by CUR supplementation, with the best result found in the CUR600 group. The liver of CUR-fed fish displayed comparatively normal hepatocytes. TNF-α and caspase-3 were significantly upregulated by dietary CUR in a level-related way. The serum catalase activity and GSH level were increased in CUR200 and CUR400 groups. Curcumin supplementation boosted the serum SOD activity and reduced the MDA level. IL10 and IgM levels were increased in the CUR200 and CUR400 groups. Lysozyme activity was increased in the CUR200–400 groups. Serum complement 3 level was increased in the CUR400 group. The percentage survival of O. niloticus challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila was highest in the CUR200-CUR600 groups (100%) and decreased in the CUR800 group (80%). This study concluded that CUR could be added to Nile tilapia diets up to 400 mg·kg−1 to achieve better growth, antioxidant capacity, immune response, and intestinal histology. Long feeding periods on high levels of CUR (600 and 800 mg·kg−1) stimulate inflammatory reactions in fish tissues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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19 pages, 2146 KiB  
Article
Effects of Sodium Pyruvate on Vanadyl Sulphate-Induced Reactive Species Generation and Mitochondrial Destabilisation in CHO-K1 Cells
by Iwona Zwolak and Ewa Wnuk
Antioxidants 2022, 11(5), 909; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11050909 - 05 May 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2133
Abstract
Vanadium is ranked as one of the world’s critical metals considered important for economic growth with wide use in the steel industry. However, its production, applications, and emissions related to the combustion of vanadium-containing fuels are known to cause harm to the environment [...] Read more.
Vanadium is ranked as one of the world’s critical metals considered important for economic growth with wide use in the steel industry. However, its production, applications, and emissions related to the combustion of vanadium-containing fuels are known to cause harm to the environment and human health. Pyruvate, i.e., a glucose metabolite, has been postulated as a compound with multiple cytoprotective properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of the present study was to examine the antioxidant potential of sodium pyruvate (4.5 mM) in vanadyl sulphate (VOSO4)-exposed CHO-K1 cells. Dichloro-dihydro-fluorescein diacetate and dihydrorhodamine 123 staining were performed to measure total and mitochondrial generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), respectively. Furthermore, mitochondrial damage was investigated using MitoTell orange and JC-10 staining assays. We demonstrated that VOSO4 alone induced a significant rise in ROS starting from 1 h to 3 h after the treatment. Additionally, after 24 and 48 h of exposure, VOSO4 elicited both extensive hyperpolarisation and depolarisation of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). The two-way ANOVA analysis of the results showed that, through antagonistic interaction, pyruvate prevented VOSO4-induced total ROS generation, which could be observed at the 3 h time point. In addition, through the independent action and antagonistic interaction with VOSO4, pyruvate provided a pronounced protective effect against VOSO4-mediated mitochondrial toxicity at 24-h exposure, i.e., prevention of VOSO4-induced hyperpolarisation and depolarisation of MMP. In conclusion, we found that pyruvate exerted cytoprotective effects against vanadium-induced toxicity at least in part by decreasing ROS generation and preserving mitochondrial functions Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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15 pages, 2577 KiB  
Article
Potential Antioxidative Components in Azadirachta indica Revealed by Bio-Affinity Ultrafiltration with SOD and XOD
by Min-Xia Fan, Gui-Lin Chen and Ming-Quan Guo
Antioxidants 2022, 11(4), 658; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11040658 - 29 Mar 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2640
Abstract
Azadirachta indica (A. indica) has been widely used due to its diverse pharmacological activities. However, there are currently few studies on its responsible antioxidant ingredients against superoxide dismutase (SOD) and xanthine oxidase (XOD). In this study, the antioxidant activities of A. [...] Read more.
Azadirachta indica (A. indica) has been widely used due to its diverse pharmacological activities. However, there are currently few studies on its responsible antioxidant ingredients against superoxide dismutase (SOD) and xanthine oxidase (XOD). In this study, the antioxidant activities of A. indica were evaluated by a 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethyl-benzthiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid) and ferric-ion-reducing antioxidant power method. Meanwhile, total polyphenol and flavonoid content were determined to reveal that they were the highest in ethyl acetate (EA) fraction. Next, compounds with the most antioxidant activity were screened out from EA fraction by bio-affinity ultrafiltration liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UF-LC-MS) with SOD and XOD. As a result, gallic acid, protocatechuic acid and (−)-epicatechin were identified as potential SOD ligands with relative binding affinity (RBA) values of 2.15, 1.78 and 1.61, respectively. Additionally, these three ligands could effectively interact with SOD in molecular docking with binding energies (BEs) ranging from −3.84 ± 0.37 to −5.04 ± 0.01 kcal/mol. In addition, carnosic acid exhibited a strong binding affinity to XOD with an RBA value of 2.05 and BE value of −8.24 ± 0.71 kcal/mol. In conclusion, these results indicated that A. indica might have good antioxidant activity and antigout potential, and the UF-LC-MS method is suitable and efficient for screening both SOD and XOD ligands from A. indica. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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15 pages, 17341 KiB  
Article
Gingerenone A Induces Antiproliferation and Senescence of Breast Cancer Cells
by Tzu-Jung Yu, Jen-Yang Tang, Jun-Ping Shiau, Ming-Feng Hou, Chia-Hung Yen, Fu Ou-Yang, Chung-Yi Chen and Hsueh-Wei Chang
Antioxidants 2022, 11(3), 587; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11030587 - 19 Mar 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3059
Abstract
Ginger is a popular spice and consists of several bioactive antioxidant compounds. Gingerenone A (Gin A), a novel compound isolated from Zingiber officinale, is rarely investigated for its anti-breast-cancer properties. Some ginger extracts have been reported to initiate senescence, an anticancer strategy. [...] Read more.
Ginger is a popular spice and consists of several bioactive antioxidant compounds. Gingerenone A (Gin A), a novel compound isolated from Zingiber officinale, is rarely investigated for its anti-breast-cancer properties. Some ginger extracts have been reported to initiate senescence, an anticancer strategy. However, the anticancer effects of Gin A on breast cancer cells remain unclear. The present study aims to assess the modulating impact of Gin A acting on proliferation and senescence to breast cancer cells. Gin A diminished the cellular ATP content and decreased the cell viability of the MTS assay in several breast cancer cell lines. It also showed a delayed G2/M response to breast cancer cells (MCF7 and MDA-MB-231). N-acetylcysteine (NAC), an oxidative stress inhibitor, can revert these responses of antiproliferation and G2/M delay. The oxidative stress and senescence responses of Gin A were further validated by increasing reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial superoxide, and β-galactosidase activity, which were reverted by NAC. Gin A also upregulated senescence-associated gene expressions. In addition to oxidative stress, Gin A also induced DNA damage responses by increasing γH2AX level and foci and generating 8-hydroxyl-2′-deoxyguanosine in breast cancer cells, which were reverted by NAC. Therefore, Gin A promotes antiproliferation and senescence of breast cancer cells induced by oxidative stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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20 pages, 3724 KiB  
Article
Potential Effects of Anthocyanin-Rich Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Extract on the Growth, Intestinal Histomorphology, Blood Biochemical Parameters, and the Immune Status of Broiler Chickens
by Shimaa A. Amer, Hanan S. Al-Khalaifah, Ahmed Gouda, Ali Osman, Nehal I. A. Goda, Haiam A. Mohammed, Mahmoud I. M. Darwish, Aziza M. Hassan and Sherif Kh. A. Mohamed
Antioxidants 2022, 11(3), 544; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11030544 - 13 Mar 2022
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 4635
Abstract
The potential effects of anthocyanin-rich roselle, Hibiscus sabdariffa L. extract (ARRE) on the growth, carcass traits, intestinal histomorphology, breast muscle composition, blood biochemical parameters, antioxidant activity, and immune status of broiler chickens were evaluated. In the present study, Hibiscus acidified ethanolic extract was [...] Read more.
The potential effects of anthocyanin-rich roselle, Hibiscus sabdariffa L. extract (ARRE) on the growth, carcass traits, intestinal histomorphology, breast muscle composition, blood biochemical parameters, antioxidant activity, and immune status of broiler chickens were evaluated. In the present study, Hibiscus acidified ethanolic extract was reported to have a total anthocyanin content of about 359.3 mg cyanidin 3-glucoside/100 g DW, total polyphenol concentration (TPC) of about 598 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g DW, and total flavonoids (TFs) of about 100 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/100 g DW. Two-hundred-fifty one-day-old chicks (Ross 308 broiler) (87.85 gm ± 0.32) were randomly allotted to five experimental groups and fed on basal diets supplemented with five levels of ARRE: 0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg Kg−1 for 35 days. Dietary ARRE addition did not improve the birds’ growth and carcass traits. Supplemental ARRE increased the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (ω-3) percentage in the breast muscle. Dietary ARRE increased the villous height, and the ARRE100 group raised the villus height to crypt depth ratio. Dietary ARRE increased the immunoexpression of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in the spleen. The serum thyroxine hormone (T4) level was higher in the ARRE200 group. The serum growth hormone level was increased by ARRE addition in a level-dependent manner. According to the broken-line regression analysis, the optimum inclusion level of ARRE was 280 mg Kg−1. All levels of supplemental ARRE decreased the serum triglyceride level. The serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was increased in the ARRE100-ARRE400 groups, the serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) level was increased in the ARRE200 group, and the serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level was decreased by increasing the ARRE level. Supplemental ARRE significantly increased the serum levels of lysozymes and IL10. The serum complement 3 (C3) level was increased in ARRE200 and ARRE400 groups. It can be concluded that dietary ARRE addition had many beneficial effects represented by the improvements in the bird’s metabolic functions, blood biochemistry, intestinal morphology, antioxidant activity, immune status, and higher ω-3 content in the breast muscles. However, it had no improving effect on the birds’ growth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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14 pages, 3636 KiB  
Article
Coriander Oil Reverses Dexamethasone-Induced Insulin Resistance in Rats
by Mona F. Mahmoud, Noura Ali, Islam Mostafa, Rehab A. Hasan and Mansour Sobeh
Antioxidants 2022, 11(3), 441; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11030441 - 23 Feb 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2823
Abstract
In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of coriander oil on dexamethasone-induced insulin resistance in rats and characterize its chemical composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Rats were divided into five groups (n = 6): Normal control, insulin resistance [...] Read more.
In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of coriander oil on dexamethasone-induced insulin resistance in rats and characterize its chemical composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Rats were divided into five groups (n = 6): Normal control, insulin resistance (IR) control, IR + metformin (50 mg/kg/day, PO, Per Oral), IR + coriander oil low dose (0.5 mL/kg, PO), and IR + coriander oil high dose (1 mL/kg, PO). IR groups were injected with a dose of 10 mg/kg dexamethasone subcutaneously for four consecutive days. All groups received either vehicle or drugs daily for four days. Animal weights and pancreatic weights were measured, and oral glucose tolerance test was performed at the end of study. Fasting glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), HDL and insulin levels in serum, MDA, and GSH levels in pancreatic tissue were measured and HOMA-IR was calculated. Immunoexpression of apoptosis markers BAX, and BCL2 was measured in pancreatic tissues and BAX/BCL2 ratio was calculated. Histopathological examination of pancreatic tissues was also performed. Pancreatic weight, serum HDL, pancreatic GSH, and BCL2 were decreased while serum glucose, insulin, TG, TC levels, AUC of OGGT, HOMA-IR, pancreatic MDA, BAX, and BAX/BCL2 ratio were increased in IR rats. Histopathological examination showed congestion, vacuolation and hemorrhage in pancreatic islets. These changes were reversed by metformin and the high dose of coriander oil treatments. The obtained activities could be attributed to the presence of 21 volatile compounds, identified by GC-MS. Our study indicates that coriander oil can be used as an adjuvant antihyperglycemic agent in type 2 diabetes. Further experiments are needed to determine the therapeutic dose and the treatment time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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15 pages, 2881 KiB  
Article
Ellagic Acid Alleviates Oxidative Stress by Mediating Nrf2 Signaling Pathways and Protects against Paraquat-Induced Intestinal Injury in Piglets
by Yuxin Xiao, Rui Huang, Nan Wang, Yuankun Deng, Bie Tan, Yulong Yin, Ming Qi and Jing Wang
Antioxidants 2022, 11(2), 252; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11020252 - 27 Jan 2022
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 2649
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract is a key source of superoxide so as to be one of the most vulnerable to oxidative stress damage. Ellagic acid (EA), a polyphenol displays widely biological activities owing to its strong antioxidant properties. Here, we investigated the protective benefits [...] Read more.
The gastrointestinal tract is a key source of superoxide so as to be one of the most vulnerable to oxidative stress damage. Ellagic acid (EA), a polyphenol displays widely biological activities owing to its strong antioxidant properties. Here, we investigated the protective benefits of EA on oxidative stress and intestinal barrier injury in paraquet (PQ)-challenged piglets. A total of 40 weaned piglets were randomly divided into five groups: Control, PQ, 0.005% EA-PQ, 0.01% EA-PQ, and 0.02% EA-PQ. Piglets were intraperitoneally injected with 4 mg/kg (BW) PQ or saline on d-18, and sacrificed on d-21 of experiment. EA treatments eliminated growth-check induced by PQ and increased serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity but decreased serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level as compared to PQ group. EA supplementation promoted Nrf2 nuclear translocation and enhanced heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) protein abundances of small intestinal mucosa. Additionally, EA improved PQ-induced crypt deepening, goblet cells loss, and villi morphological damage. Consistently, EA increased tight junction protein expression as was evident from the decreased serum diamine oxidase (DAO) levels. EA could ameliorate the PQ-induced oxidative stress and intestinal damage through mediating Nrf2 signaling pathway. Intake of EA-rich food might prevent oxidative stress-mediated gut diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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16 pages, 3553 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Combined Phycocyanin and Palmitoylethanolamide in Human Lung and Prostate Epithelial Cells
by Loredana Bergandi, Giulia Apprato and Francesca Silvagno
Antioxidants 2022, 11(2), 201; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11020201 - 21 Jan 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3143
Abstract
Inflammation involving the innate and adaptive immune systems is a normal response to infection; however, when allowed to continue unchecked, inflammation may result in several pathologies. Natural molecules with antioxidant properties can target the key players of inflammation and exert beneficial health effects. [...] Read more.
Inflammation involving the innate and adaptive immune systems is a normal response to infection; however, when allowed to continue unchecked, inflammation may result in several pathologies. Natural molecules with antioxidant properties can target the key players of inflammation and exert beneficial health effects. In this study, human normal bronchial (Beas-2B) and prostate (HPrEpiC) epithelial cell lines were exposed to infectious stimulation and treated with phycocyanin (PC) and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), with the aim of demonstrating the enhanced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the combination. The cotreatment protected from cytotoxicity and greatly abated both the production of radical oxygen species (ROS) and the transcription of several inflammatory cytokines. Oxidative stress and inflammation were curtailed by affecting three main pathways: (1) inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme and consequent decrease of signaling generating ROS; (2) increased synthesis of glutathione and therefore strengthening of the natural antioxidant defenses of the cells; (3) decreased infection-driven mitochondrial respiratory burst which generates oxidative stress. Based on the mounting interest in using nutraceuticals as adjuvants in the clinical practice, the present study unveils new mechanisms of action and enhanced efficacy of PC and PEA, supporting the possible exploitation of this combination in human disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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16 pages, 11804 KiB  
Article
Lipid Profile, Antioxidant and Antihypertensive Activity, and Computational Molecular Docking of Diatom Fatty Acids as ACE Inhibitors
by Jeeraporn Pekkoh, Kittiya Phinyo, Theera Thurakit, Sureeporn Lomakool, Kritsana Duangjan, Khomsan Ruangrit, Chayakorn Pumas, Supat Jiranusornkul, Wipawadee Yooin, Benjamas Cheirsilp, Wasu Pathom-aree and Sirasit Srinuanpan
Antioxidants 2022, 11(2), 186; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11020186 - 19 Jan 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3047
Abstract
Diatoms, as single cell eukaryotic microalgae, are rich sources of lipids, which have either beneficial or detrimental effects on the prevention and treatment of many diseases. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identified diatom lipids with high levels of essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially polyunsaturated [...] Read more.
Diatoms, as single cell eukaryotic microalgae, are rich sources of lipids, which have either beneficial or detrimental effects on the prevention and treatment of many diseases. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identified diatom lipids with high levels of essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs) containing both omega-3 and omega-6. Nutritional values of FAs indicated possible applications in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and functional food industries. Diatom FAs showed antioxidative potential on harmful radicals by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging, with high inhibition of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) that causes cardiovascular disease (CVD) and hypertension. A computational molecular docking simulation confirmed the inhibition mechanisms of FAs on ACE, with comparable levels of binding free energy to chemically synthesized ACE drugs. Findings suggested that diatom lipids showed potential for use as alternative ACE inhibitors or food supplement for CVD prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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22 pages, 2159 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Fruit Development, Antioxidant Capacity, and Potential Vasoprotective Action of Peumo (Cryptocarya alba), a Native Fruit of Chile
by Mónika Valdenegro, Maricarmen Bernales, Marcela Knox, Raúl Vinet, Eduardo Caballero, Aníbal Ayala-Raso, Denisa Kučerová, Rohitesh Kumar, Jitka Viktorová, Tomáš Ruml, Carlos R. Figueroa and Lida Fuentes
Antioxidants 2021, 10(12), 1997; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10121997 - 15 Dec 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3208
Abstract
The peumo (Cryptocarya alba) is a native fruit from central Chile that belongs to the Lauraceae family. To characterize the development and the potential health benefits of this edible fruit, quality and physiological parameters, along with antioxidant capacity, were evaluated during [...] Read more.
The peumo (Cryptocarya alba) is a native fruit from central Chile that belongs to the Lauraceae family. To characterize the development and the potential health benefits of this edible fruit, quality and physiological parameters, along with antioxidant capacity, were evaluated during three clearly defined developmental stages of the fruit in two seasons. The most distinguishable attributes of ripe fruit were the change in size and color. Low CO2 production and no detectable ethylene levels suggested non-climacteric behavior of the peumo fruit. Peumo demonstrate a significant increase in their antioxidant capacity per 1 g of fresh weight (FW) of the sample, from small to ripe fruit. Higher values in ripe fruit (FRAP: 37.1–38.3 µmol FeSO4/gFW, TEAC: 7.9–8.1 mmol TE/gFW, DPPH: 8.4-8.7 IC50 μg/mL, and ORAC: = 0.19–0.20 mmol TE/gFW) were observed than those in blueberry fruit (FRAP: 4.95 µmol FeSO4/gFW, TEAC: 1.25 mmol TE/gFW, DPPH: 11.3 IC50 μg/mL, and ORAC: 0.032 mmol TE/ gFW). The methanol extracts of ripe fruit displayed the presence of polyphenol acids and quercetin, an ORAC value of 0.637 ± 0.061 mmol TE per g dried weight (DW), and a high cellular antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, the latter exceeding the effect of quercetin and indomethacin used as standard molecules. Also, the assay of isolated rat aorta with endothelium-dependent relaxation damage demonstrated that the peumo extract induced vascular protection, depending on its concentration under a high glucose condition. These results demonstrate that these endemic fruits have a good chance as ingredients or foods with functional properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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18 pages, 3073 KiB  
Article
Quercetin Alleviates the Immunotoxic Impact Mediated by Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Induced by Doxorubicin Exposure in Rats
by Mayada R. Farag, Attia A. A. Moselhy, Amany El-Mleeh, Samira H. Aljuaydi, Tamer Ahmed Ismail, Alessandro Di Cerbo, Giuseppe Crescenzo and Shimaa M. Abou-Zeid
Antioxidants 2021, 10(12), 1906; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10121906 - 28 Nov 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2657
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is a chemotherapeutic agent against hematogenous and solid tumors with undesirable side effects including immunosuppression. Quercetin (QUR), a natural flavonoid abundant in fruits and vegetables, has a potent antioxidant activity. The aim of the current study was to assess the impact [...] Read more.
Doxorubicin (DOX) is a chemotherapeutic agent against hematogenous and solid tumors with undesirable side effects including immunosuppression. Quercetin (QUR), a natural flavonoid abundant in fruits and vegetables, has a potent antioxidant activity. The aim of the current study was to assess the impact of QUR on DOX-induced hematological and immunological dysfunctions in a rodent model. Randomly grouped rats were treated as follows: control, QUR alone (50 mg/kg for 15 days per os), DOX alone (2.5 mg/kg I/P, three times a week, for two weeks), and co-treated rats with QUR for 15 days prior to and concomitantly with DOX (for two weeks), at the doses intended for groups two and three. DOX alone significantly disrupted the erythrogram and leukogram variables. Serum immunoglobulin (IgG, IgM, and IgE) levels and the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in spleen were declined. The DNA damage traits in spleen were elevated with an upregulation of the expression of the apoptotic markers (p53 and Caspase-3 genes) and the proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α genes), while the expression of CAT gene was downregulated. These biochemical changes were accompanied by morphological changes in the spleen of DOX-treated rats. Co-treatment with QUR abated most of the DOX-mediated alterations in hematological variables, serum immunoglobulins, and spleen antioxidant status, pro-inflammatory and apoptotic responses, and histopathological alterations. In essence, these data suggest that QUR alleviated DOX-induced toxicities on the bone marrow, spleen, and antibody-producing cells. Supplementation of chemotherapy patients with QUR could circumvent the DOX-induced inflammation and immunotoxicity, and thus prevent chemotherapy failure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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10 pages, 1856 KiB  
Article
Seasonal Variation, Fractional Isolation and Nanoencapsulation of Antioxidant Compounds of Indian Blackberry (Syzygium cumini)
by Rabia Shaheen, Muhammad Asif Hanif, Shafaq Nisar, Umer Rashid, Zubia Sajid, Muhammad Raffi Shehzad, Jill K. Winkler-Moser and Ali Alsalme
Antioxidants 2021, 10(12), 1900; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10121900 - 26 Nov 2021
Viewed by 2005
Abstract
Indian blackberry (Syzygium cumini L.) is an evergreen tree in the Myrtaceae family. It is used in traditional medicine due to its significant bioactivities and presence of polyphenols with antioxidant activities. The present study describes the effect of seasonal variations on Indian [...] Read more.
Indian blackberry (Syzygium cumini L.) is an evergreen tree in the Myrtaceae family. It is used in traditional medicine due to its significant bioactivities and presence of polyphenols with antioxidant activities. The present study describes the effect of seasonal variations on Indian blackberry leaf essential oil yield and chemical composition, production of fractions from essential oil using high vacuum fractional distillation and slow cooling to low temperature (−50 °C) under vacuum, and bioactivities of the essential oil, fractions, and nanoparticles. The results show that Indian blackberry essential oil yield was higher in spring season as compared to winter season. Indian blackberry essential oil fractionation processes were effective in separating and concentrating compounds with desired bioactivities. The bioactivities shown by magnesium nanoparticles were comparatively higher than barium nanoparticles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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15 pages, 1285 KiB  
Article
Alpha-Ketoglutarate and 5-HMF: A Potential Anti-Tumoral Combination against Leukemia Cells
by Joachim Greilberger, Ralf Herwig, Michaela Greilberger, Philipp Stiegler and Reinhold Wintersteiger
Antioxidants 2021, 10(11), 1804; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10111804 - 12 Nov 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2209
Abstract
We have recently shown that a combined solution containing alpha-ketoglutarate (aKG) and 5-hydroxymethyl-furfural (5-HMF) might have anti-tumoral potential due to its antioxidative activities. The question arises if these substances have caspase-3- and apoptosis-activating effects on the cell proliferation in Jurkat and HF-SAR cells. [...] Read more.
We have recently shown that a combined solution containing alpha-ketoglutarate (aKG) and 5-hydroxymethyl-furfural (5-HMF) might have anti-tumoral potential due to its antioxidative activities. The question arises if these substances have caspase-3- and apoptosis-activating effects on the cell proliferation in Jurkat and HF-SAR cells. Antioxidative capacity of several combined aKG + 5-HMF solution was estimated by cigarette smoke radical oxidized proteins of fetal calf serum (FCS) using the estimation of carbonylated proteins. The usage of 500 µg/mL aKG + 166.7 µg/mL 5-HMF showed the best antioxidative capacity to inhibit protein modification of more than 50% compared to control measurement. A Jurkat cell line and human fibroblasts (HF-SAR) were cultivated in the absence or presence of combined AKG + 5-HMF solutions between 0 µg/mL aKG + 0 µg/mL 5-HMF and different concentrations of 500 µg/mL aKG + 166.7 µg/mL 5-HMF. Aliquots of Jurkat cells were tested for cell proliferation, mitochondrial activity, caspase activity, apoptotic cells and of the carbonylated protein content as marker of oxidized proteins in cell lysates after 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation. The combined solutions of aKG + 5-HMF were shown to cause a reduction in Jurkat cell growth that was dependent on the dose and incubation time, with the greatest reductions using 500 µg/mL aKG + 166.7 µg/mL 5-HMF after 24 h of incubation compared to 24 h with the control (22,832 cells vs. 32,537 cells), as well as after 48 h (21,243 vs. 52,123 cells) and after 72 h (23,224 cells). Cell growth was totally inhibited by the 500 µg/mL AKG + 166.7 µg/mL solution between 0 and 72 h of incubation compared to 0 h of incubation for the control. The mitochondrial activity measurements supported the data on cell growth in Jurkat cells: The highest concentration of 500 µg/mL aKG + 166.7 µg/mL 5-HMF was able to reduce the mitochondrial activity over 24 h (58.9%), 48 h (28.7%), and 72 h (9.9%) of incubation with Jurkat cells compared not only to the control incubation, but also to the concentrations of 500 µg/mL aKG + 166.7 µg/mL 5-HMF or 375 µg/mL aKG 125 µg/mL 5-HMF, which were able to significantly reduce the mitochondrial activity after 48 h (28.7% or 35.1%) and 72 h (9.9% or 18.2%) compared to 24 h with the control (100%). A slight increase in cell proliferation was found in HF-SAR using the highest concentration (500 µg/mL aKG + 166.7 µg/mL 5-HMF) between 0 h and 72 h incubation of 140%, while no significant differences were found in the mitochondrial activity of HF-SAR in the absence or presence of several combined aKG + 5-HMF solutions. The solutions with 500 µg/mL aKG + 166.7 µg/mL 5-HMF or 250 µg/mL aKG + 83.3 µg/mL 5-HMF showed a significantly higher caspase activity (51.6% or 13.5%) compared to the control (2.9%) in addition to a higher apoptosis rate (63.2% or 31.4% vs. control: 14.9%). Cell lysate carbonylated proteins were significantly higher in Jurkat cells compared to HF-SAR cells (11.10 vs. 2.2 nmol/mg). About 72 h incubation of Jurkat cells with 500 µg/mL aKG + 166.7 µg/mL 5-HMF or 250 µg/mL aKG + 83.3 µg/mL 5-HMF reduced significantly the carbonylated protein content down to 5.55 or 7.44 nmol/mg whereas only the 500 µg/mL aKG + 166.7 µg/mL 5-HMF solution showed a significant reduction of carbonylated proteins of HF-SAR (1.73 nmol/mg). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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16 pages, 750 KiB  
Article
Impact of Fennel Essential Oil as an Antibiotic Alternative in Rabbit Diet on Antioxidant Enzymes Levels, Growth Performance, and Meat Quality
by Tharwat Imbabi, Islam Sabeq, Ali Osman, Kamal Mahmoud, Shimaa A. Amer, Aziza M. Hassan, Nikolay Kostomakhin, Walid Habashy and Ahmed A. Easa
Antioxidants 2021, 10(11), 1797; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10111797 - 10 Nov 2021
Cited by 53 | Viewed by 3247
Abstract
In the current study, fennel essential oil was used as an antibiotic alternative compared to gentamycin for enhancing the expression of apoptosis genes and antioxidant enzymes in weaned rabbits as well as meat quality and growth performance. The gene expression of the cell [...] Read more.
In the current study, fennel essential oil was used as an antibiotic alternative compared to gentamycin for enhancing the expression of apoptosis genes and antioxidant enzymes in weaned rabbits as well as meat quality and growth performance. The gene expression of the cell lymphoma 2 (BAX and BCL2), caspase3 (CASP3), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) were estimated in the liver tissue using qRT-PCR. A total of 45 Moshtohor weaned male rabbits aged four weeks were randomly allocated to control, T1, and T2 treatment groups; each consisted of 15 weaned male rabbits with five replicates. Rabbits in the T1 and T2 groups were orally supplied with 1 mL fennel oil and 1 mL gentamycin, respectively. Weaned rabbits under different treatments showed increased body weight (BW) at 8 and 12 weeks of age and average daily gain (ADG) at 4–8 and 4–12 weeks of age compared to the control group. Compared to the controls, the weaned rabbits supplemented with fennel oil and gentamycin had lower total cholesterol, triglyceride, and MDA. In addition, villus length, mRNA of BAX, BCL2, Casp3, and GPX were increased in the different treatments compared to the control. Furthermore, the meat of these rabbits was less tender, had a lower aerobic plate count (APC), pH, and was brighter and redder in color than the control. Under the conditions of the present study, the supplementation of weaned Moshtohor rabbits with fennel oil as a natural alternative for gentamycin enhanced feed conversion and daily gain through enhancing villus length and mucus thickness. Additionally, fennel essential oil reduces oxidative stress by increasing the antioxidant enzymes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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15 pages, 1592 KiB  
Article
Potential of Industrial Pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merrill) By-Products as Aromatic and Antioxidant Sources
by Arantzazu Valdés García, María Isabel Domingo Martínez, Mercedes Ponce Landete, María Soledad Prats Moya and Ana Beltrán Sanahuja
Antioxidants 2021, 10(11), 1767; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10111767 - 04 Nov 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3143
Abstract
Pineapple is meanly commercially processed. However, it is a fruit that generates a high proportion of nonedible wastes, which are rich in antioxidant compounds and have a varied aromatic profile. These characteristics turn these by-products into potential agri-food waste that can be revalued [...] Read more.
Pineapple is meanly commercially processed. However, it is a fruit that generates a high proportion of nonedible wastes, which are rich in antioxidant compounds and have a varied aromatic profile. These characteristics turn these by-products into potential agri-food waste that can be revalued and applied in different fields such as medical, pharmaceutical, or food applications. The aim of the present work was the characterization and extraction of the volatile compounds present in two pineapple by-products (peel and core) and the subsequent evaluation of their antioxidant capacity. For this purpose, the analysis of the aromatic profile of both by-products has been carried out using the headspace solid-phase microextraction technique coupled to gas chromatography with a mass spectrometry detector (HS-SPME-GC-MS). The optimization of the extraction conditions of the volatile compounds has been validated using a Box–Behnken experimental design. In addition, a quantitative analysis was carried out to determine the contents of two important volatiles in pineapple wastes, isopentyl, and ethyl acetate. Moreover, the estimation of the antioxidant capacity of the subproducts extracts was carried out using different methods All the antioxidant assays demonstrated that pineapple subproducts are rich in easily extractable antioxidants with possible applications in the food industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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14 pages, 2222 KiB  
Article
Polyphenols from Blumea laciniata Extended the Lifespan and Enhanced Resistance to Stress in Caenorhabditis elegans via the Insulin Signaling Pathway
by Tao Chen, Siyuan Luo, Xiaoju Wang, Yiling Zhou, Yali Dai, Lijun Zhou, Shiling Feng, Ming Yuan and Chunbang Ding
Antioxidants 2021, 10(11), 1744; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10111744 - 30 Oct 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2007
Abstract
Blumea laciniata is widely used as a folk medicine in Asia, but relevant literature on it is rarely reported. We confirmed that polyphenol extract (containing chlorogenic acid, rutin, and luteolin-4-O-glucoside) from B. laciniata (EBL) showed strong antioxidant ability in vitro. Hence, in this [...] Read more.
Blumea laciniata is widely used as a folk medicine in Asia, but relevant literature on it is rarely reported. We confirmed that polyphenol extract (containing chlorogenic acid, rutin, and luteolin-4-O-glucoside) from B. laciniata (EBL) showed strong antioxidant ability in vitro. Hence, in this work, we applied Caenorhabditis elegans to further investigate the antioxidant and anti-ageing abilities of EBL in vivo. The results showed that EBL enhanced the survival of C. elegans under thermal stress by 12.62% and sharply reduced the reactive oxygen species level as well as the content of malonaldehyde. Moreover, EBL increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and superoxide dismutase. Additionally, EBL promoted DAF-16, a transcription factor, into the nucleus. Besides, EBL extended the lifespan of C. elegans by 17.39%, showing an anti-ageing effect. Different mutants indicated that the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway participated in the antioxidant and anti-ageing effect of EBL on C. elegans. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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15 pages, 2967 KiB  
Article
Curcumin Ameliorates the Cd-Induced Anxiety-like Behavior in Mice by Regulating Oxidative Stress and Neuro-Inflammatory Proteins in the Prefrontal Cortex Region of the Brain
by Dhondup Namgyal, Sher Ali, Muhammad Delwar Hussain, Mohsin Kazi, Ajaz Ahmad and Maryam Sarwat
Antioxidants 2021, 10(11), 1710; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10111710 - 27 Oct 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2368
Abstract
Age-related neurodegenerative diseases and vascular dementia are major challenges to the modern health care system. Most neurodegenerative diseases are associated with impaired spatial working memory and anxiety-like behavior. Thus, it is important to understand the underlying cellular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases in different [...] Read more.
Age-related neurodegenerative diseases and vascular dementia are major challenges to the modern health care system. Most neurodegenerative diseases are associated with impaired spatial working memory and anxiety-like behavior. Thus, it is important to understand the underlying cellular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases in different regions of the brain to develop an effective therapeutic approach. In our previous research paper, we have reported the ameliorative effect of curcumin in Cd-induced hippocampal neurodegeneration. However, recently many researchers had reported the important role of the prefrontal cortex in higher cognitive functions. Therefore, to look into the cellular mechanism of curcumin protection against Cd-induced prefrontal cortex neurotoxicity, we investigated spatial working memory, anxiety-like behavior and analyzed prefrontal cortex inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-10, and TNFα), antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GSH, and CAT), and pro-oxidant MDA level. Further, we conducted histological studies of the prefrontal cortex in Swiss albino mice exposed to cadmium (2.5 mg/kg). We observed that curcumin treatment improved the spatial working memory and anxiety-like behavior of mice through reduction of prefrontal cortex neuroinflammation and oxidative stress as well as increasing the number of viable prefrontal cortex neuronal cells. Our result suggests that environmental heavy metal cadmium can induce behavioral impairment in mice through prefrontal cortex cellular inflammation and oxidative stress. We found that curcumin has a potential therapeutic property to mitigate these behavioral and biochemical impairments induced by cadmium. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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13 pages, 2433 KiB  
Article
Oleuropein Enhances Stress Resistance and Extends Lifespan via Insulin/IGF-1 and SKN-1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Caenorhabditis elegans
by Shiling Feng, Chunyan Zhang, Tao Chen, Lijun Zhou, Yan Huang, Ming Yuan, Tian Li and Chunbang Ding
Antioxidants 2021, 10(11), 1697; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10111697 - 27 Oct 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3028
Abstract
Oleuropein (OLE) is a secoiridoid glycoside that mainly exists in olives with multifaceted health benefits. The present study aimed to investigate the stress resistance and lifespan extension effects of OLE in Caenorhabditis elegans. The results showed that OLE could significantly prolong the [...] Read more.
Oleuropein (OLE) is a secoiridoid glycoside that mainly exists in olives with multifaceted health benefits. The present study aimed to investigate the stress resistance and lifespan extension effects of OLE in Caenorhabditis elegans. The results showed that OLE could significantly prolong the lifespan of C. elegans by 22.29%. Treatment with OLE also significantly increased the survival rates of worms against lethal heat shock and oxidative stress. Meanwhile, OLE supplementation increased the expression and activity of antioxidant enzymes and suppressed the generation of malondialdehyde in nematodes. In addition, the results from mutants implied that OLE might mediate longevity and stress resistance via DAF-16/FoxO, which played a vital role in the insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS) pathway. To further identify the molecular targets of OLE, mRNA level and loss-of-function mutants of IIS-associated genes were investigated. The data revealed that OLE activated IIS by down-regulating the upstream components, daf-2 and age-1. Furthermore, another stress response and longevity pathway in parallel to DAF-16, SKN-1/Nrf2, was also shown to involve in OLE-induced beneficial effects. Collectively, these results provide the theoretical basis that OLE could enhance the stress resistance and increase the lifespan of C. elegans through the IIS and SKN-1/Nrf2 signaling pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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18 pages, 1447 KiB  
Article
Insights into the Phytochemical and Multifunctional Biological Profile of Spices from the Genus Piper
by Simon Vlad Luca, Katarzyna Gaweł-Bęben, Marcelina Strzępek-Gomółka, Karolina Czech, Adriana Trifan, Gokhan Zengin, Izabela Korona-Glowniak, Mirjana Minceva, Jürg Gertsch and Krystyna Skalicka-Woźniak
Antioxidants 2021, 10(10), 1642; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10101642 - 19 Oct 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3232
Abstract
Piper spices represent an inexhaustible reservoir of bioactive compounds that may act as drug leads in natural product research. The aim of this study was to investigate a series of methanolic fruit extracts obtained from P. nigrum (black, green, white and red), P. [...] Read more.
Piper spices represent an inexhaustible reservoir of bioactive compounds that may act as drug leads in natural product research. The aim of this study was to investigate a series of methanolic fruit extracts obtained from P. nigrum (black, green, white and red), P. longum and P. retrofractum in comparative phytochemical and multi-directional biological (antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-enzymatic and anti-melanogenic) assays. The metabolite profiling revealed the presence of 17 piperamides, with a total content of 247.75–591.42 mg piperine equivalents/g. Among the 22 tested microorganism strains, Piper spices were significantly active (MIC < 0.1 mg/mL) against the anaerobes Actinomyces israelii and Fusobacterium nucleatum. The antioxidant and anti-enzymatic activities were evidenced in DPPH (10.64–82.44 mg TE/g) and ABTS (14.20–77.60 mg TE/g) radical scavenging, CUPRAC (39.94–140.52 mg TE/g), FRAP (16.05–77.00 mg TE/g), chelating (0–34.80 mg EDTAE/g), anti-acetylcholinesterase (0–2.27 mg GALAE/g), anti-butyrylcholinesterase (0.60–3.11 mg GALAE/g), anti-amylase (0.62–1.11 mmol ACAE/g) and anti-glucosidase (0–1.22 mmol ACAE/g) assays. Several Piper extracts (10 μg/mL) inhibited both melanin synthesis (to 32.05–60.65% of αMSH+ cells) and release (38.06–45.78% of αMSH+ cells) in αMSH-stimulated B16F10 cells, partly explained by their tyrosinase inhibitory properties. Our study uncovers differences between Piper spices and sheds light on their potential use as nutraceuticals or cosmeceuticals for the management of different diseases linked to bacterial infections, Alzheimer’s dementia, type 2 diabetes mellitus or hyperpigmentation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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20 pages, 4175 KiB  
Article
Anticancer Potential of Lipophilic Constituents of Eleven Shellfish Species Commonly Consumed in Korea
by Juhyun Shin, Min-Ho Song, Ji-Woo Yu, Eun-Young Ko, Xiaomin Shang, Jae-Wook Oh, Young-Soo Keum and Ramesh Kumar Saini
Antioxidants 2021, 10(10), 1629; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10101629 - 15 Oct 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2565
Abstract
The present study was aimed to investigate the composition and contents and the major lipophilic compounds, including the sterols, fatty acids, and tocols of shellfish species. Moreover, to explore the antitumor activity of these lipophilic constituents, their cytotoxicity potentials were determined against five [...] Read more.
The present study was aimed to investigate the composition and contents and the major lipophilic compounds, including the sterols, fatty acids, and tocols of shellfish species. Moreover, to explore the antitumor activity of these lipophilic constituents, their cytotoxicity potentials were determined against five different human cancer cells, including colon carcinoma (HCT116), epithelial melanoma (A2058), glioblastoma multiforme (T98G), lung carcinoma (A549), and adenocarcinoma (HeLa). The results show a significant variation in the contents and composition of lipophilic constituents among the studied species. The highest omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were recorded from arrow squid and pacific oysters, accounting for 53.2% and 53.0% of their total fatty acids, respectively. However, the highest cholesterol content was also recorded in arrow squid (154.4 mg/100 g; 92.6% of total sterols). In contrast, in the Japanese littleneck, Yesso scallop, and common orient clam, cholesterol was just 17.1%, 18.3%, and 18.9% of total sterols, respectively, making them the richest source of non-cholesterol sterols (NCS). Lipids extracted from shellfish species showed ABTS+•- and DPPH•-scavenging activities. In the cytotoxicity analysis, lipids extracted from the Argentine red shrimp showed the highest cytotoxicity against glioblastoma multiforme T98G cells, with an IC50 value of 12.3 µg/mL. The composition and cytotoxicity data reported herein may help explore the nutritional and anticancer potentials of shellfish species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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23 pages, 1972 KiB  
Article
Redox-Modulating Capacity and Antineoplastic Activity of Wastewater Obtained from the Distillation of the Essential Oils of Four Bulgarian Oil-Bearing Roses
by Almira Georgieva, Yana Ilieva, Zlatina Kokanova-Nedialkova, Maya Margaritova Zaharieva, Paraskev Nedialkov, Ana Dobreva, Alexander Kroumov, Hristo Najdenski and Milka Mileva
Antioxidants 2021, 10(10), 1615; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10101615 - 14 Oct 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2859
Abstract
The wastewater from the distillation of rose oils is discharged directly into the soil because it has a limited potential for future applications. The aim of the present study was to determine in vitro the chromatographic profile, redox-modulating capacity, and antineoplastic activity of [...] Read more.
The wastewater from the distillation of rose oils is discharged directly into the soil because it has a limited potential for future applications. The aim of the present study was to determine in vitro the chromatographic profile, redox-modulating capacity, and antineoplastic activity of wastewater obtained by distillation of essential oils from the Bulgarian Rosa alba L., Rosa damascena Mill., Rosa gallica L., and Rosa centifolia L. We applied UHPLC-HRMS for chromatographic analysis of rose wastewaters, studied their metal-chelating and Fe(III)-reducing ability, and performed MTT assay for the evaluation of cytotoxic potential against three tumorigenic (HEPG2—hepatocellular adenocarcinoma, A-375—malignant melanoma, A-431—non-melanoma epidermoid squamous skin carcinoma) and one non-tumorigenic human cell lines (HaCaT—immortalized keratinocytes). The median inhibitory concentrations (IC50) were calculated with nonlinear modeling using the MAPLE® platform. The potential of the wastewaters to induce apoptosis was also examined. Mono-, di-, and acylated glycosides of quercetin and kaempferol, ellagic acid and its derivatives as main chemical components, and gallic acid and its derivatives—such as catechin and epicatechin—were identified. The redox-modulating capacity of the samples (TPTZ test) showed that all four wastewaters exhibited the properties of excellent heavy metal cleaners, but did not exert very strong cytotoxic effects. The lowest IC50 rate was provided in wastewater from R. centifolia (34–35 µg/mL of gallic acid equivalents after a 72 h period for all cell lines). At 24 and 48 hours, the most resistant cell line was HEPG2, followed by HaCaT. After 72 h of exposure, the IC50 values were similar for tumor and normal cells. Still, R. damascena had a selectivity index over 2.0 regarding A-431 non-melanoma skin cancer cells, showing a good toxicological safety profile in addition to moderate activity—IC50 of 35 µg/mL polyphenols. The obtained results related to wastewaters acquired after the distillation of essential oils from the Bulgarian R. alba, R. damascena, R. gallica, and R. centifolia direct our attention to further studies for in-depth elucidation of their application as detoxifying agents under oxidative damage conditions in other experimental datasets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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19 pages, 2611 KiB  
Article
Development of an Optimized Drying Process for the Recovery of Bioactive Compounds from the Autumn Fruits of Berberis vulgaris L. and Crataegus monogyna Jacq.
by Cadmiel Moldovan, Oleg Frumuzachi, Mihai Babotă, Luigi Menghini, Stefania Cesa, Alexandru Gavan, Cristian R. Sisea, Corneliu Tanase, Maria Inês Dias, Carla Pereira, Isabel C.F.R. Ferreira, Gianina Crișan, Andrei Mocan and Lillian Barros
Antioxidants 2021, 10(10), 1579; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10101579 - 07 Oct 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2561
Abstract
Hot air drying has proven to be an efficient method to preserve specific edible plant materials with medicinal properties. This is a process involving chemical, physical, and biological changes in plant matrices. Understanding these processes will lead to an improvement in the yields [...] Read more.
Hot air drying has proven to be an efficient method to preserve specific edible plant materials with medicinal properties. This is a process involving chemical, physical, and biological changes in plant matrices. Understanding these processes will lead to an improvement in the yields of bioactive compounds. This study aims to optimize the drying process of two species’ fruits used in folk medicine, Berberis vulgaris and Crataegus monogyna. The optimized extracts’ antioxidant capacity was assessed using various assays, with the barberry extract showing very good activity (50.85, 30.98, and 302.45 mg TE/g dw for DPPH, TEAC, and FRAP assays, respectively). Both species exerted good fungal α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (IC50 = 0.34 and 0.56 mg/mL, respectively) but no activity on mammalian α-glucosidase. Additionally, this study identified and quantified the main bioactive compounds. The results presented herein are a breakthrough in industrializing this drying process. Additional studies are necessary to mechanistically understand the drying process involved in these plant materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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14 pages, 2595 KiB  
Communication
Analysis of Lipophilic Antioxidants in the Leaves of Kaempferia parviflora Wall. Ex Baker Using LC–MRM–MS and GC–FID/MS
by Kihwan Song, Ramesh Kumar Saini, Young-Soo Keum and Iyyakkannu Sivanesan
Antioxidants 2021, 10(10), 1573; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10101573 - 05 Oct 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2505
Abstract
Lipophilic metabolites such as carotenoids, fatty acids, vitamin K1, phytosterols, and tocopherols are important antioxidants that are used in the cosmetics, foods, and nutraceutical industries. Recently, there has been a growing demand for the use of byproducts (wastes) as a potential source of [...] Read more.
Lipophilic metabolites such as carotenoids, fatty acids, vitamin K1, phytosterols, and tocopherols are important antioxidants that are used in the cosmetics, foods, and nutraceutical industries. Recently, there has been a growing demand for the use of byproducts (wastes) as a potential source of industrially important compounds. The leaves of Kaempferia parviflora (black ginger) (KP-BG) are major byproducts of KP-BG cultivation and have been reported to contain several bioactive metabolites; however, the composition of lipophilic metabolites in KP-BG leaves has not been examined. In this study, the lipophilic antioxidant profile was analyzed in the leaves of KP-BG plants grown in vitro and ex vitro. Lipophilic compounds, namely carotenoids (80.40–93.84 µg/g fresh weight (FW)), tocopherols (42.23–46.22 µg/g FW), phytosterols (37.69–44.40 µg/g FW), and vitamin K1 (7.25–7.31 µg/g FW), were quantified using LC–MRM–MS. The fatty acid profile of the KP-BG leaves was identified using GC–FID/MS. The content of individual lipophilic compounds varied among the KP-BG leaves. Ex vitro KP-BG leaves had high levels of lutein (44.38 µg/g FW), α-carotene (14.79 µg/g FW), neoxanthin (12.30 µg/g FW), β-carotene (11.33 µg/g FW), violaxanthin (11.03 µg/g FW), α-tocopherol (39.70 µg/g FW), α-linolenic acid (43.12%), palmitic acid (23.78%), oleic acid (12.28%), palmitoleic acid (3.64%), total carotenoids (93.84 µg/g FW), and tocopherols (46.22 µg/g FW) compared with in vitro KP-BG leaves. These results indicate that ex-vitro-grown KP-BG leaves could be used as a valuable natural source for extracting important lipophilic antioxidants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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15 pages, 4282 KiB  
Article
Lycopene Protects Intestinal Epithelium from Deoxynivalenol-Induced Oxidative Damage via Regulating Keap1/Nrf2 Signaling
by Shahid Ali Rajput, Shao-Jie Liang, Xiu-Qi Wang and Hui-Chao Yan
Antioxidants 2021, 10(9), 1493; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10091493 - 18 Sep 2021
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 3811
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a threatening mycotoxin primarily present in the agricultural environment, especially in food commodities and animal forages, and exerts significant global health hazards. Lycopene (LYC) is a potent antioxidant carotenoid mainly present in tomatoes and other fruits with enormous health benefits. [...] Read more.
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a threatening mycotoxin primarily present in the agricultural environment, especially in food commodities and animal forages, and exerts significant global health hazards. Lycopene (LYC) is a potent antioxidant carotenoid mainly present in tomatoes and other fruits with enormous health benefits. The present study was designed to ascertain whether LYC could protect DON-induced intestinal epithelium oxidative injury by regulating Keap1/Nrf2 signaling in the intestine of mice. A total of forty-eight mice were randomly distributed into four groups (n = 12), Control (CON), 10 mg/kg BW LYC, 3 mg/kg BW DON, and 3 mg/kg DON + 10 mg/kg LYC BW (DON + LYC). The experimental groups were treated by intragastric administration for 11 days. Our results showed that LYC significantly increased average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), and repaired intestinal injury and barrier dysfunction, as evident by increased trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and decreased diamine oxidase (DAO) activity, as well as up-regulated tight junction proteins (occludin, claudin-1) under DON exposure. Furthermore, LYC treatment stabilized the functions of intestinal epithelial cells (Lgr5, PCNA, MUC2, LYZ, and Villin) under DON exposure. Additionally, LYC alleviated DON-induced oxidative stress by reducing ROS and MDA accumulation and enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, T-SOD, T-AOC, and GSH-Px), which was linked with the activation of Nrf2 signaling and degradation of Keap1 expression. Conclusively, our findings demonstrated that LYC protects intestinal epithelium from oxidative injury by modulating the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway under DON exposure. These novel findings could lead to future research into the therapeutic use of LYC to protect the DON-induced harmful effects in humans and/or animals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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16 pages, 2595 KiB  
Article
Nano-Curcumin Prevents Cardiac Injury, Oxidative Stress and Inflammation, and Modulates TLR4/NF-κB and MAPK Signaling in Copper Sulfate-Intoxicated Rats
by Wedad S. Sarawi, Ahlam M. Alhusaini, Laila M. Fadda, Hatun A. Alomar, Awatif B. Albaker, Amjad S. Aljrboa, Areej M. Alotaibi, Iman H. Hasan and Ayman M. Mahmoud
Antioxidants 2021, 10(9), 1414; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10091414 - 03 Sep 2021
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 2863
Abstract
Copper (Cu) is essential for a plethora of biological processes; however, its high redox reactivity renders it potentially toxic. This study investigated the protective effect of curcumin (CUR) and nano-CUR (N-CUR) against Cu cardiotoxicity, emphasizing the role of oxidative stress, TLR4/NF-κB and mitogen-activated [...] Read more.
Copper (Cu) is essential for a plethora of biological processes; however, its high redox reactivity renders it potentially toxic. This study investigated the protective effect of curcumin (CUR) and nano-CUR (N-CUR) against Cu cardiotoxicity, emphasizing the role of oxidative stress, TLR4/NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and cell death in rats. Rats received 100 mg/kg copper sulfate (CuSO4), a pesticide used for repelling pests, and were concurrently treated with CUR or N-CUR for 7 days. Cu caused cardiac injury manifested by elevated serum cardiac troponin I (cTnI), creatine kinase (CK)-MB, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), as well as histopathological alterations. Cardiac malondialdehyde (MDA), NF-κB p65, TNF-α, and IL-6 were increased, and reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase were decreased in Cu-treated rats. CUR and N-CUR prevented cardiac tissue injury, decreased serum cTnI, CK-MB, and LDH, and cardiac MDA, NF-κB p65, TNF-α, and IL-6, and enhanced cellular antioxidants. CUR and N-CUR downregulated TLR4 and AP-1, and decreased the phosphorylation levels of p38 MAPK, JNK, and ERK1/2. In addition, CUR and N-CUR increased cardiac Bcl-2 and BAG-1, decreased Bax and caspase-3, and prevented DNA fragmentation. In conclusion, N-CUR prevents Cu cardiotoxicity by attenuating oxidative injury, inflammatory response, and apoptosis, and modulating TLR4/NF-κB and MAPK signaling. The cardioprotective effect of N-CUR was more potent than the native form. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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15 pages, 5508 KiB  
Article
Isolation of Polysaccharides from Trichoderma harzianum with Antioxidant, Anticancer, and Enzyme Inhibition Properties
by Kandasamy Saravanakumar, SeonJu Park, Anbazhagan Sathiyaseelan, Arokia Vijaya Anand Mariadoss, Soyoung Park, Seong-Jung Kim and Myeong-Hyeon Wang
Antioxidants 2021, 10(9), 1372; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10091372 - 28 Aug 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2406
Abstract
In this work, a total of six polysaccharides were isolated from culture filtrate (EPS1, EPS2) and mycelia (IPS1–IPS4) of Trichoderma harzianum. The HPLC analysis results showed that EPS1, EPS2, IPS1, and IPS2 were composed of mannose, ribose, glucose, galactose, and arabinose. The [...] Read more.
In this work, a total of six polysaccharides were isolated from culture filtrate (EPS1, EPS2) and mycelia (IPS1–IPS4) of Trichoderma harzianum. The HPLC analysis results showed that EPS1, EPS2, IPS1, and IPS2 were composed of mannose, ribose, glucose, galactose, and arabinose. The FT-IR, 1H, and 13C NMR chemical shifts confirmed that the signals in EPS1 mainly consist of (1→4)-linked α-d-glucopyranose. EPS1 and IPS1 showed a smooth and clean surface, while EPS2, IPS2, and IPS3 exhibited a microporous structure. Among polysaccharides, EPS1 displayed higher ABTS+ (47.09 ± 2.25% and DPPH (26.44 ± 0.12%) scavenging activities, as well as higher α-amylase (69.30 ± 1.28%) and α-glucosidase (68.22 ± 0.64%) inhibition activity than the other polysaccharides. EPS1 exhibited high cytotoxicity to MDA-MB293 cells, with an IC50 of 0.437 mg/mL, and this was also confirmed by cell staining and FACS assays. These results report the physicochemical and bioactive properties of polysaccharides from T. harzianum. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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23 pages, 2241 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant Status of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Supplemented with Vinification By-Products: A Valorization Approach
by Alexandros Mavrommatis, Elisavet Giamouri, Eleni D. Myrtsi, Epameinondas Evergetis, Katiana Filippi, Harris Papapostolou, Sofia D. Koulocheri, Evangelos Zoidis, Athanasios C. Pappas, Apostolis Koutinas, Serkos A. Haroutounian and Eleni Tsiplakou
Antioxidants 2021, 10(8), 1250; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10081250 - 05 Aug 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4409
Abstract
Vinification by-products display great potential for utilization as feed additives rich in antioxidant compounds. Thus, the effect of dietary ground grape pomace (GGP), wine lees extract rich in yeast cell walls (WYC), and grape stem extracts (PE) on the relative expression of several [...] Read more.
Vinification by-products display great potential for utilization as feed additives rich in antioxidant compounds. Thus, the effect of dietary ground grape pomace (GGP), wine lees extract rich in yeast cell walls (WYC), and grape stem extracts (PE) on the relative expression of several genes involved in liver oxidative mechanisms and the oxidative status of the blood and breast muscle of broiler chickens was investigated. In total, 240 one-day-old as hatched chicks (Ross 308) were assigned to four treatments, with four replicate pens and 15 birds in each pen. Birds were fed either a basal diet (CON) or a basal diet supplemented with 25 g/kg GGP, or 2 g/kg WYC, or 1 g starch including 100 mg pure stem extract/kg (PE) for 42 days. The polyphenolic content of vinification by-products was determined using an LC-MS/MS library indicating as prevailing compounds procyanidin B1 and B2, gallic acid, caftaric acid, (+)-catechin, quercetin, and trans-resveratrol. Body weight and feed consumption were not significantly affected. The relative transcript level of GPX1 and SOD1 tended to increase in the liver of WYC-fed broilers, while NOX2 tended to decrease in the PE group. SOD activity in blood plasma was significantly increased in WYC and PE compared to the CON group. The total antioxidant capacity measured with FRAP assay showed significantly higher values in the breast muscle of PE-fed broilers, while the malondialdehyde concentration was significantly decreased in both WYC- and PE-fed broilers compared to the CON group. The exploitation of vinification by-products as feed additives appears to be a promising strategy to improve waste valorization and supply animals with bioactive molecules capable of improving animals’ oxidative status and products’ oxidative stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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13 pages, 769 KiB  
Article
Chemical Composition, In Vitro and In Silico Antioxidant Potential of Melissa officinalis subsp. officinalis Essential Oil
by Matilda Rădulescu, Călin Jianu, Alexandra Teodora Lukinich-Gruia, Marius Mioc, Alexandra Mioc, Codruța Șoica and Loredana Gabriela Stana
Antioxidants 2021, 10(7), 1081; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10071081 - 05 Jul 2021
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 3341
Abstract
The investigation aimed to study the in vitro and in silico antioxidant properties of Melissa officinalis subsp. officinalis essential oil (MOEO). The chemical composition of MOEO was determined using GC–MS analysis. Among 36 compounds identified in MOEO, the main were beta-cubebene (27.66%), beta-caryophyllene [...] Read more.
The investigation aimed to study the in vitro and in silico antioxidant properties of Melissa officinalis subsp. officinalis essential oil (MOEO). The chemical composition of MOEO was determined using GC–MS analysis. Among 36 compounds identified in MOEO, the main were beta-cubebene (27.66%), beta-caryophyllene (27.41%), alpha-cadinene (4.72%), caryophyllene oxide (4.09%), and alpha-cadinol (4.07%), respectively. In vitro antioxidant properties of MOEO have been studied in 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free-radical scavenging, and inhibition of β-carotene bleaching assays. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) for the radical scavenging abilities of ABTS and DPPH were 1.225 ± 0.011 μg/mL and 14.015 ± 0.027 μg/mL, respectively, demonstrating good antioxidant activity. Moreover, MOEO exhibited a strong inhibitory effect (94.031 ± 0.082%) in the β-carotene bleaching assay by neutralizing hydroperoxides, responsible for the oxidation of highly unsaturated β-carotene. Furthermore, molecular docking showed that the MOEO components could exert an in vitro antioxidant activity through xanthine oxidoreductase inhibition. The most active structures are minor MOEO components (approximately 6%), among which the highest affinity for the target protein belongs to carvacrol. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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40 pages, 18753 KiB  
Article
Sagan Dalya Tea, a New “Old” Probable Adaptogenic Drug: Metabolic Characterization and Bioactivity Potentials of Rhododendron adamsii Leaves
by Daniil N. Olennikov, Vyacheslav M. Nikolaev and Nadezhda K. Chirikova
Antioxidants 2021, 10(6), 863; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10060863 - 27 May 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5469
Abstract
Adams’ rhododendron (Rhododendron adamsii Rehder) or Sagan Dalya tea is a famous Siberian evergreen medical plant of the Ericaceae family used in traditional medicines of Buryats, Yakuts, and Mongols as a tonic, stimulant, and adaptogenic drug. The high popularity of R. adamsii [...] Read more.
Adams’ rhododendron (Rhododendron adamsii Rehder) or Sagan Dalya tea is a famous Siberian evergreen medical plant of the Ericaceae family used in traditional medicines of Buryats, Yakuts, and Mongols as a tonic, stimulant, and adaptogenic drug. The high popularity of R. adamsii coupled with poor scientific knowledge prompted the addressing of gaps related to metabolic and biomedical data of Sagan Dalya tea. The application of solid-phase extraction and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometric techniques for the metabolomic study of R. adamsii leaf extracts resulted in the identification of more than 170 compounds, including carbohydrates, organic acids, simple phenol glycosides, triterpene glycosides, flavonoids, prenylated phenols, benzoic acid derivatives, hydroxycinnamates, dihydrochalcones, catechins, and procyanidins, most of which were identified for the first time in the plant. Extended surveys of the seasonal content of all detected compounds prove that specific metabolite variations reflect the bioactivity of R. adamsii extracts. Regarding in vitro methods, the expressed antioxidant potential of R. adamsii extracts was investigated via radical-scavenging, nitric oxide scavenging, and ferrous (II) ion chelating assays. The animal-based swimming to exhaustion test demonstrates the stimulating influence of R. adamsii extract on physical performance and endurance, concluding that the drug could act as an adaptogen. Thus, Sagan Dalya tea (R. adamsii) has confirmed its “old” application as a tonic remedy and requires further precise study as a novel adaptogenic plant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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23 pages, 777 KiB  
Article
Comprehensive Profiling of Most Widely Used Spices for Their Phenolic Compounds through LC-ESI-QTOF-MS2 and Their Antioxidant Potential
by Akhtar Ali, Hanjing Wu, Eric N. Ponnampalam, Jeremy J. Cottrell, Frank R. Dunshea and Hafiz A. R. Suleria
Antioxidants 2021, 10(5), 721; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10050721 - 04 May 2021
Cited by 73 | Viewed by 6923
Abstract
Spices have long been used to improve food flavor, due to their appealing fragrance and sensory attributes. Nowadays, spices-based bioactives, particularly phenolic compounds, have gained attention due to their wide range of significant effects in biological systems. The present study was conducted to [...] Read more.
Spices have long been used to improve food flavor, due to their appealing fragrance and sensory attributes. Nowadays, spices-based bioactives, particularly phenolic compounds, have gained attention due to their wide range of significant effects in biological systems. The present study was conducted to characterize the 12 widely used spices (allspice, black cardamom, black cumin, black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, cumin, fennel, nutmeg, star-anise, and turmeric) for their phenolics with the liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS2), polyphenols estimation, and their antioxidant potential. Total phenolics, total flavonoids, and total tannin content and their antioxidant activities were estimated in all spices. Clove and allspice had the highest value of total polyphenol content (215.14 and 40.49 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) per g of sample), while clove and turmeric had the highest total flavonoids (5.59 mg quercetin equivalent (QE) per g of sample) and total tannin contents (23.58 mg catechin equivalent (CE) per g of sample), respectively. On the other hand, black cumin and black pepper had the highest phosphomolybdate activity (15.61 and 15.43 mg ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE) per g of sample), while clove was almost identified with highest free radical scavenging capacity. A positive correlation was observed among phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities. In this quest, a total of 79 phenolic compounds were tentatively characterized by using LC-ESI-QTOF-MS2 including 26 phenolic acids, 33 flavonoids, 16 other polyphenols, and 4 lignans. The high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detector (HPLC-PDA) quantification of phenolic compounds exhibited higher phenolic acids. These results provided us some valuable information that spices have powerful antioxidant potential that can be further used in human food and animal feed as a supplement for different health promoting applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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Review

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38 pages, 2182 KiB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review of C. capsularis and C. olitorius: A Source of Nutrition, Essential Phytoconstituents and Pharmacological Activities
by Ashok Biswas, Susmita Dey, Siqi Huang, Yong Deng, Ziggiju Mesenbet Birhanie, Jiangjiang Zhang, Delara Akhter, Liangliang Liu and Defang Li
Antioxidants 2022, 11(7), 1358; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11071358 - 12 Jul 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5022
Abstract
Plant bioactive compounds have gained global significance in terms of both medicinal and economic ramifications due to being easily accessible and are believed to be effective with fewer side effects. Growing relevant clinical and scientific evidence has become an important criterion for accepting [...] Read more.
Plant bioactive compounds have gained global significance in terms of both medicinal and economic ramifications due to being easily accessible and are believed to be effective with fewer side effects. Growing relevant clinical and scientific evidence has become an important criterion for accepting traditional health claims of medicinal plants and also supports the traditional uses of Corchorus as folk medicine. C. capsularis and C. olitorius have broad applications ranging from textile to biocomposite, and young leaves and shoots are used as healthy vegetables and have long been used as traditional remedies for fever, ascites, algesia, liver disorders, piles, and tumors in many cultures. This review systematically summarized and emphasized the nutritional attributes, mostly available bioactive compounds, and biological and potential pharmaceutical properties of C. capsularis and C. olitorius, disclosed to users and non-users. Results suggest that various phytochemicals such as cardiac glycosides, phenols, flavonoids, sterols, lipids, and fatty acids were found or analytically identified in different plant parts (leaf, stem, seed, and root), and many of them are responsible for pharmacological properties and their antitumor, anticancer, antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, antiviral, antibacterial, anticonvulsant, antidiabetic and antiobesity, and cardiovascular properties help to prevent and cure many chronic diseases. In addition to their use in traditional food and medicine, their leaves have also been developed for skin care products, and some other possible uses are described. From this review, it is clear that the isolated compounds of both species have great potential to prevent and treat various diseases and be used as functional foods. In conclusion, this comprehensive review establishes a significant reference base for future research into various medical and functional food applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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15 pages, 4420 KiB  
Review
Fermentation Affects the Antioxidant Activity of Plant-Based Food Material through the Release and Production of Bioactive Components
by Yan-Sheng Zhao, Aya Samy Eweys, Jia-Yan Zhang, Ying Zhu, Juan Bai, Osama M. Darwesh, Hai-Bo Zhang and Xiang Xiao
Antioxidants 2021, 10(12), 2004; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10122004 - 16 Dec 2021
Cited by 70 | Viewed by 5190
Abstract
This review reports on the effects of fermentation on the chemical constituents and antioxidant activity of plant-based food materials. Fermentation involves a series of reactions that modify the chemical components of the substrate. It could be considered a tool to increase the bioactive [...] Read more.
This review reports on the effects of fermentation on the chemical constituents and antioxidant activity of plant-based food materials. Fermentation involves a series of reactions that modify the chemical components of the substrate. It could be considered a tool to increase the bioactive compounds and functional properties of food plant materials. Oxidative damage is key to the progression of many human diseases, and the production of antioxidant compounds by fermentation will be helpful to reduce the risk of these diseases. Fermentation also can improve antioxidant activity given its association with increased phytochemicals, antioxidant polysaccharides, and antioxidant peptides produced by microbial hydrolysis or biotransformation. Additionally, fermentation can encourage the breakdown of plant cell walls, which helps to liberate or produce various antioxidant compounds. Overall, results indicated that fermentation in many cases contributed to enhancing antioxidants’ content and antioxidant capacity, supporting the fermentation use in the production of value-added functional food. This review provides an overview of the factors that impact the effects of fermentation on bioactive compound composition and antioxidant activity. The impacts of fermentation are summarized as a reference to its effects on food plant material. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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25 pages, 30710 KiB  
Review
Potential Anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis Activity of Plant Secondary Metabolites: Insight with Molecular Docking Interactions
by Manu Kumar, Sandeep Kumar Singh, Prem Pratap Singh, Vipin Kumar Singh, Avinash Chandra Rai, Akhileshwar Kumar Srivastava, Livleen Shukla, Mahipal Singh Kesawat, Atul Kumar Jaiswal, Sang-Min Chung and Ajay Kumar
Antioxidants 2021, 10(12), 1990; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10121990 - 14 Dec 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5887
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a recurrent and progressive disease, with high mortality rates worldwide. The drug-resistance phenomenon of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a major obstruction of allelopathy treatment. An adverse side effect of allelopathic treatment is that it causes serious health complications. The search for [...] Read more.
Tuberculosis (TB) is a recurrent and progressive disease, with high mortality rates worldwide. The drug-resistance phenomenon of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a major obstruction of allelopathy treatment. An adverse side effect of allelopathic treatment is that it causes serious health complications. The search for suitable alternatives of conventional regimens is needed, i.e., by considering medicinal plant secondary metabolites to explore anti-TB drugs, targeting the action site of M. tuberculosis. Nowadays, plant-derived secondary metabolites are widely known for their beneficial uses, i.e., as antioxidants, antimicrobial agents, and in the treatment of a wide range of chronic human diseases (e.g., tuberculosis), and are known to “thwart” disease virulence. In this regard, in silico studies can reveal the inhibitory potential of plant-derived secondary metabolites against Mycobacterium at the very early stage of infection. Computational approaches based on different algorithms could play a significant role in screening plant metabolites against disease virulence of tuberculosis for drug designing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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28 pages, 4540 KiB  
Review
Phytochemicals from Indian Ethnomedicines: Promising Prospects for the Management of Oxidative Stress and Cancer
by Nishat Fatima, Syed Shabihe Raza Baqri, Ahmad Alsulimani, Sharmila Fagoonee, Petr Slama, Kavindra Kumar Kesari, Shubhadeep Roychoudhury and Shafiul Haque
Antioxidants 2021, 10(10), 1606; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10101606 - 13 Oct 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5954
Abstract
Oxygen is indispensable for most organisms on the earth because of its role in respiration. However, it is also associated with several unwanted effects which may sometimes prove fatal in the long run. Such effects are more evident in cells exposed to strong [...] Read more.
Oxygen is indispensable for most organisms on the earth because of its role in respiration. However, it is also associated with several unwanted effects which may sometimes prove fatal in the long run. Such effects are more evident in cells exposed to strong oxidants containing reactive oxygen species (ROS). The adverse outcomes of oxidative metabolism are referred to as oxidative stress, which is a staple theme in contemporary medical research. Oxidative stress leads to plasma membrane disruption through lipid peroxidation and has several other deleterious effects. A large body of literature suggests the involvement of ROS in cancer, ageing, and several other health hazards of the modern world. Plant-based cures for these conditions are desperately sought after as supposedly safer alternatives to mainstream medicines. Phytochemicals, which constitute a diverse group of plant-based substances with varying roles in oxidative reactions of the body, are implicated in the treatment of cancer, aging, and all other ROS-induced anomalies. This review presents a summary of important phytochemicals extracted from medicinal plants which are a part of Indian ethnomedicine and Ayurveda and describes their possible therapeutic significance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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18 pages, 4008 KiB  
Review
Scavenging Properties of Plant-Derived Natural Biomolecule Para-Coumaric Acid in the Prevention of Oxidative Stress-Induced Diseases
by Shubhadeep Roychoudhury, Barnali Sinha, Birupakshya Paul Choudhury, Niraj Kumar Jha, Partha Palit, Surekha Kundu, Subhash C. Mandal, Adriana Kolesarova, Mokhtar Ibrahim Yousef, Janne Ruokolainen, Petr Slama and Kavindra Kumar Kesari
Antioxidants 2021, 10(8), 1205; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox10081205 - 28 Jul 2021
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4348
Abstract
Para-coumaric acid (p-CA) is a plant derived secondary metabolite belonging to the phenolic compounds. It is widely distributed in the plant kingdom and found mainly in fruits, vegetables, and cereals. Various in vivo and in vitro studies have revealed its scavenging and antioxidative [...] Read more.
Para-coumaric acid (p-CA) is a plant derived secondary metabolite belonging to the phenolic compounds. It is widely distributed in the plant kingdom and found mainly in fruits, vegetables, and cereals. Various in vivo and in vitro studies have revealed its scavenging and antioxidative properties in the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions. This evidence-based review focuses on the protective role of p-CA including its therapeutic potential. p-CA and its conjugates possesses various bioactivities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-melanogenic properties. Due to its potent free radical scavenging activity, it can mitigate the ill effects of various diseases including arthritis, neurological disorders, and cardio-vascular diseases. Recent studies have revealed that p-CA can ameliorate the harmful effects associated with oxidative stress in the reproductive system, also by inhibiting enzymes linked with erectile function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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Other

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13 pages, 1239 KiB  
Opinion
Potential Mechanisms of the Improvement of Glucose Homeostasis in Type 2 Diabetes by Pomegranate Juice
by Carlos Olvera-Sandoval, Héctor Enrique Fabela-Illescas, Eduardo Fernández-Martínez, María Araceli Ortiz-Rodríguez, Raquel Cariño-Cortés, José Alberto Ariza-Ortega, Juan Carlos Hernández-González, Diana Olivo, Carmen Valadez-Vega, Helen Belefant-Miller and Gabriel Betanzos-Cabrera
Antioxidants 2022, 11(3), 553; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/antiox11030553 - 15 Mar 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4590
Abstract
Pomegranate is a polyphenol-rich fruit. Studies have shown that extracts prepared from its juice or from different parts of the pomegranate plant have various biological activities including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, cardioprotective, and antidiabetic. The therapeutic potential has been attributed to various phytochemicals, [...] Read more.
Pomegranate is a polyphenol-rich fruit. Studies have shown that extracts prepared from its juice or from different parts of the pomegranate plant have various biological activities including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, cardioprotective, and antidiabetic. The therapeutic potential has been attributed to various phytochemicals, including ellagic acid, punicic acid, flavonoids, anthocyanidins, anthocyanins, flavonols, and flavones. This review focuses on the scientific evidence of pomegranate juice as hypoglycemic, emphasizing the chemical composition and the possible mechanisms of action associated with this effect. Studies were identified using the PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science databases to identify relevant articles focused on the hypoglycemic effect of pomegranate juice. The physiological responses to pomegranate juice are reported here, including a decrease of oxidative stress damage, an increase of insulin-dependent glucose uptake, maintenance of β-cell integrity, inhibition of nonenzymatic protein glycation, an increase of insulin sensitivity, modulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma, inhibition of α-amylase, inhibition of α-glucosidase and dipeptidyl peptidase-4, and decreases in inflammation. Overall, we found a significant hypoglycemic effect of pomegranate in in vitro and in vivo studies and we summarize the potential mechanisms of action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products: Biological-, Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects)
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