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Applied Sciences
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Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects II
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Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects II

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2023) | Viewed by 19888

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Anca Pop

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Guest Editor
Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 L. Pasteur Street, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Interests: bioactive compounds; oxidative stress; antioxidants; inflammation; endocrine disruptors
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Felicia Loghin

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Guest Editor
Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 L. Pasteur Street, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Interests: safety evaluation; nanotoxicity; oxidative stress biomarkers; toxicokinetics; analysis of toxicants
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Catalina Bogdan

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Guest Editor
Department of Dermopharmacy and Cosmetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 12 I. Creanga Street, 400010 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Interests: development and characterization of solid and semisolid dosage forms; texture analysis; development and optimization of cosmetic products based on nanocarriers or herbal extracts
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Ionel Fizesan

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Guest Editor
Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Hațieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 L. Pasteur Street, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Interests: antioxidants; inflammation; cancer; anti-aging; phytochemical and drug analysis; functional foods; in vitro testing
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce the second part of our Special Issue “Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects”.

Natural bioactive compounds include substances of vegetal or animal origin that can preserve the health status and prevent different diseases by modulation of cellular processes involved in pathological conditions. Although bioactive compounds have gained attention as beneficial health elements due to their tissue-protective effects (antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, etc.), more scientific data are needed to make science-based recommendations.

Moreover, the use of by-products as alternative sources for the isolation of bioactive compounds is in line with the reduced waste strategy that various institutions and industries are focused on.

In this context, we encourage the submission of research papers and reviews on natural bioactive compounds regarding their isolation methods and biological functions that would recommend their use in various fields, such as food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

Dr. Anca Pop
Prof. Dr. Felicia Loghin
Dr. Catalina Bogdan
Dr. Ionel Fizesan
Guest Editors

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. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly 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 2400 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

  • extraction
  • bioactive compounds
  • polyphenolic compounds
  • phytochemicals
  • disease prevention
  • oxidative stress
  • inflammation
  • anti-aging

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 2388 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Content Profiles, Antioxidant and Anticancer Properties in Endemic Hypericum salsolifolium
by Veysel Agan, Ismail Koyuncu, Fatma Zehra Agan and Mehmet Maruf Balos
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(12), 7300; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13127300 - 19 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1166
Abstract
This study investigated the antioxidant and anticancer properties, phenolic compounds, and content profile of Hypericum salsolifolium plant extracts prepared with different solvents. The total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant potential [(2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), ferric reducing antioxidant power, and cupric reducing antioxidant [...] Read more.
This study investigated the antioxidant and anticancer properties, phenolic compounds, and content profile of Hypericum salsolifolium plant extracts prepared with different solvents. The total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant potential [(2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), ferric reducing antioxidant power, and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity assays] of Hypericum salsolifolium extracts obtained using solvents of different polarities (hexane, dichloromethane, methanol, and water) were measured using spectrophotometric methods. The contents of the extracts were analyzed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma—mass spectrometry methods. Anticancer detection was performed in human lung carcinoma cells using the 3-4,5-dimethylthiazol-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, annexin-V, and cell cycle assays, as well as fluorescence detection of acridine orange/ethidium bromide staining. The methanolic extract was determined to have higher activation values of total phenolics, total flavonoids, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay than the other extracts, and the aqueous extract had higher values in the 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity assays. The methanolic extract showed a cytotoxic effect against human lung carcinoma cells (IC50: 141.96 µg/mL). It was found that Hypericum salsolifolium extract showed antioxidant and anticancer activities. It was concluded that this plant can be used as a nutritional supplement due to its glucose, phenolic compound, amino acid, and vitamin content. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects II)
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16 pages, 4388 KiB  
Article
Novel Liposomal Formulation with Azelaic Acid: Preparation, Characterization, and Evaluation of Biological Properties
by Paula Melania Pasca, Florina Miere (Groza), Angela Antonescu, Luminita Fritea, Florin Banica, Simona Ioana Vicas, Vasile Laslo, Dana Carmen Zaha and Simona Cavalu
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(24), 13039; https://doi.org/10.3390/app122413039 - 19 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1983
Abstract
Azelaic acid (AA), as a natural product, was proven to be effective in targeting multiple causes of acne and related dermatological conditions, as it is well tolerated using different classical formulations (gel, cream, etc.). However, its limited aqueous solubility and inadequate penetration across [...] Read more.
Azelaic acid (AA), as a natural product, was proven to be effective in targeting multiple causes of acne and related dermatological conditions, as it is well tolerated using different classical formulations (gel, cream, etc.). However, its limited aqueous solubility and inadequate penetration across the stratum corneum might be related to different possible side effects such as itching and burning. The aim of our work was to elaborate a novel liposomal formulation based on azelaic acid, with enhanced biocompatibility, bio-availability, antimicrobial, antigenotoxic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The liposomal formulations were prepared by the lipid film hydration method with different concentrations of azelaic acid (15%, 20%, 25%) and characterized in terms of morphological features, physico-chemical properties, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and in vitro wound healing effect. Successful encapsulation with 80.42% efficiency, with a size of up to 500 nm and good stability, was achieved, as demonstrated by FTIR spectroscopy (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), DLS (dynamic light scattering), and zeta-potential measurements. In terms of antibacterial activity, all the liposomal formulations exhibited a better effect compared to free AA solution against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. Cytotoxicity assays and an in vitro “scratch” test performed with normal human dermal fibroblasts revealed an accelerating healing effect, while a comet assay evidenced the protective effect of AA liposomal formulations against hydrogen-peroxide-induced DNA damage in fibroblasts. The optimum formulation in terms of both the antimicrobial and wound healing effect was AALipo20% (liposomes with 20% azelaic acid included). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects II)
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14 pages, 1800 KiB  
Article
Rheological, Textural, and Sensorial Characterization of Walnut Butter
by Ana Leahu, Cristina Ghinea and Sorina Ropciuc
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(21), 10976; https://doi.org/10.3390/app122110976 - 29 Oct 2022
Viewed by 1737
Abstract
The rheological properties of six formulated walnut semi-solid pastes with 0.5, 1.5, and 2.0% w/w xanthan gum, maple syrup, and Jerusalem artichoke powder were characterized using the Mars 40 rheometer (Thermo Haake, Karlsruhe, Germany). The butter samples’ textural behavior and color [...] Read more.
The rheological properties of six formulated walnut semi-solid pastes with 0.5, 1.5, and 2.0% w/w xanthan gum, maple syrup, and Jerusalem artichoke powder were characterized using the Mars 40 rheometer (Thermo Haake, Karlsruhe, Germany). The butter samples’ textural behavior and color parameters (CIE L*, a*, and b*) were analyzed. Sensory evaluation and consumer acceptance were also analyzed. Walnut kernels were roasted at an optimized temperature (120 °C) and time (30 min) and subsequently made into walnut butter (WB). Maple syrup has an appreciable influence on the rheological properties of walnut butter. The prepared butter exhibited non-Newtonian shear thinning behavior and showed excellent stability. The results showed that sample S3 (3% maple syrup and 2% xanthan gum) had a bright color with the highest L* values (47.31 ± 0.32), the lowest a* values (2.72 ± 0.04) and the highest b* values (20.54 ± 0.08). In comparison, sample S6 (5% Jerusalem artichoke powder and 2.0% xanthan gum) had a darker color, with the following mean values obtained: 44.67 ± 0.05 for L*, 6.70 ± 0.09 for a* and 18.34 ± 0.07 for b*. The addition of maple syrup even in combination with xanthan gum (2%) S3 to the walnut butter led to a decrease in the viscosity of the butter samples. The hardness and firmness of the walnut butter samples were affected by the type of sweetener used; thus, the nut butter with xanthan gum and Jerusalem artichoke powder had significantly higher hardness values than the samples with added maple syrup. Therefore, based on consumer preferences, we obtained new formulations of walnut butter with a high sensory quality, suitable for those with allergies to peanut butter. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects II)
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13 pages, 1207 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Adenosine Precursors and Biologically Active Peptides in Cultured Fresh Mycelium of Wild Medicinal Mushrooms
by Nikolay Solakov, Milena Kostova, Kamelia Loginovska, Zlati Markov, Ana Caroline de Oliveira and Yordan Muhovski
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(20), 10618; https://doi.org/10.3390/app122010618 - 20 Oct 2022
Viewed by 1649
Abstract
Adenosine, known as an endogenous neuroprotective agent and acting as a cytoprotective modulator in organisms, is the subject of considerable scientific interest. Medicinal mushrooms represent a good source of bioactive compounds due to their composition and potent adaptogenic action, affecting more than 300 [...] Read more.
Adenosine, known as an endogenous neuroprotective agent and acting as a cytoprotective modulator in organisms, is the subject of considerable scientific interest. Medicinal mushrooms represent a good source of bioactive compounds due to their composition and potent adaptogenic action, affecting more than 300 biochemical processes and functions in organisms. The aim of the present study was to investigate adenosine precursors and biologically active peptides in cultured fresh mycelium with focus on Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) and Cordyceps sinensis as best studied species. Biologically active extracts are derived by fermentation with Bacillus subtilis NBIMCC 2353 strain. Enhancement of the total proteolytic activity of Bacillus subtilis culture medium enriched with native bovine collagen protein and mycelium was recorded. The results demonstrate a clear trend of increasing cordycepin and adenosine content in the Cordyceps militaris sample grown in culture medium with optimized composition, with the presence of cordycepin being 2.22% and adenosine being 0.64%. The obtained increase was 1.9% for cordycepin and 0.24% for adenosine, respectively. The application of combined biotechnological approaches in the use of biologically active components from natural organic sources and the resulting final product with high biological activity determine the present study as relevant and significant for its practical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects II)
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24 pages, 2707 KiB  
Article
Rosa davurica Pall., Rosa rugosa Thumb., and Rosa acicularis Lindl. Originating from Far Eastern Russia: Screening of 146 Chemical Constituents in Three Species of the Genus Rosa
by Mayya P. Razgonova, Bayana A. Bazhenova, Yulia Yu. Zabalueva, Anastasia G. Burkhanova, Alexander M. Zakharenko, Andrey N. Kupriyanov, Andrey S. Sabitov, Sezai Ercisli and Kirill S. Golokhvast
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(19), 9401; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12199401 - 20 Sep 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2113
Abstract
Rosa rugosa Thumb., Rosa davurica Pall., and Rosa acicularis Lindl. contain a large number of target analytes which are bioactive compounds. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), in combination with the ion trap (tandem mass spectrometry), was used to identify target analytes in MeOH [...] Read more.
Rosa rugosa Thumb., Rosa davurica Pall., and Rosa acicularis Lindl. contain a large number of target analytes which are bioactive compounds. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), in combination with the ion trap (tandem mass spectrometry), was used to identify target analytes in MeOH extracts of R. rugosa, R. davurica, and R. acicularis, originating from the Russian Far East, Trans-Baikal Region, and Western Siberia. The results of initial studies revealed the presence of 146 compounds, of which 115 were identified for the first time in the genus Rosa (family Rosaceae). The newly identified metabolites belonged to 18 classes, including 14 phenolic acids and their conjugates, 18 flavones, 7 flavonols, 2 flavan-3-ols, 2 flavanones, 3 stilbenes, 2 coumarins, 2 lignans, 9 anthocyanins, 3 tannins, 8 terpenoids, 3 sceletium alkaloids, 4 fatty acids, 2 sterols, 2 carotenoids, 3 oxylipins, 3 amino acids, 5 carboxylic acids, etc. The proven richness of the bioactive components of targeted extracts of R. rugosa, R. davurica, and R. acicularis invites extensive biotechnological and pharmaceutical research, which can make a significant contribution both in the field of functional and enriched nutrition, and in the field of cosmetology and pharmacy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects II)
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Review

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38 pages, 5788 KiB  
Review
New Insight and Future Perspectives on Nutraceuticals for Improving Sports Performance of Combat Players: Focus on Natural Supplements, Importance and Advantages over Synthetic Ones
by Adrian Tirla, Fahadul Islam, Md. Rezaul Islam, Simona Ioana Vicas and Simona Cavalu
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(17), 8611; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12178611 - 28 Aug 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4196
Abstract
Advanced nutritional interventions are one of the key components of elite sports performance in general. Combat sports require a high percentage of muscle mass with minimum body weight to generate the maximum power possible. An adequate level of nutrition knowledge, particularly with respect [...] Read more.
Advanced nutritional interventions are one of the key components of elite sports performance in general. Combat sports require a high percentage of muscle mass with minimum body weight to generate the maximum power possible. An adequate level of nutrition knowledge, particularly with respect to identifying energy needs while avoiding confusion over dietary supplements and false perceptions of steroid requirement, which may compromise the health condition, is of crucial importance. In this context, the aim of our work is to highlight nutritional requirements/nutritional assessment, the importance of daily dietary intake in combat players, which increasingly includes a broad range of sports nutrition supplements, and the roles of vitamins, minerals and proteins, combined with antioxidants and strength training, in muscular performance. The main nutrients required in the daily diet of combat players, the mechanisms of action, the main outcomes and possible side effects are summarized. Special attention is paid to natural supplements and their importance and advantages over synthetic ones, along with future trends of development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects II)
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18 pages, 2472 KiB  
Review
Honey as an Adjuvant in the Treatment of COVID-19 Infection: A Review
by Sónia Soares, Mélina Bornet, Clara Grosso, Maria João Ramalhosa, Irene Gouvinhas, Juliana Garcia, Francisca Rodrigues and Cristina Delerue-Matos
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(15), 7800; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12157800 - 03 Aug 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 6328
Abstract
Since ancestor times, honey has been used to promote human health due to its medicinal, and nutritious properties, mainly due to bioactive compounds present, such as phenolic compounds. The emergence of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, led to the pursuit of solutions [...] Read more.
Since ancestor times, honey has been used to promote human health due to its medicinal, and nutritious properties, mainly due to bioactive compounds present, such as phenolic compounds. The emergence of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, led to the pursuit of solutions for the treatment of symptoms and/or disease. Honey has proven to be effective against viral infections, principally due to its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that attenuate oxidative damage induced by pathogens, and by improving the immune system. Therefore, the aim of this review is to overview the abilities of honey to attenuate different COVID-19 symptoms, highlighting the mechanisms associated with these actions and relating the with the different bioactive compounds present. A brief, detailed approach to SARS-CoV-2 mechanism of action is first overviewed to allow readers a deep understanding. Additionally, the compounds and beneficial properties of honey, and its previously application in other similar diseases, are detailed in depth. Despite the already reported efficacy of honey against different viruses and their complications, further studies are urgently needed to explain the molecular mechanisms of activity against COVID-19 and, most importantly, clinical trials enrolling COVID-19 patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Biological Effects II)
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