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15 pages, 2223 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fatty Acid Composition and Cytotoxic Activity of Lipid Extracts from Nannochloropsis gaditana Produced by Green Technologies

by Natalia Castejón and Doris Marko

Molecules 2022, 27(12), 3710; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27123710 - 09 Jun 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2249

Abstract

Microalgae are alternatives and sustainable sources of omega-3 long chain-polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA). However, the eco-friendly extraction of these bioactives remains unexplored. In this work, the use of enzyme-based methods in combination with ultrasounds was evaluated as green approaches to extract the omega-3 [...] Read more.

Microalgae are alternatives and sustainable sources of omega-3 long chain-polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA). However, the eco-friendly extraction of these bioactives remains unexplored. In this work, the use of enzyme-based methods in combination with ultrasounds was evaluated as green approaches to extract the omega-3 lipids from Nannochloropsis gaditana. Three commercial enzymatic solutions (Viscozyme^® L, Celluclast^® 1.5 L, and Saczyme^®) were investigated, and results were compared with the traditional Folch method. A promising extraction approach was developed by using Saczyme^®, achieving a lipid yield of 25.7% ± 0.5, comparable to the traditional method (27.3% ± 0.7) (p > 0.05). Similar omega-3 content was found by GC–MS analysis for both lipid extracts (30.2% ± 2.4 and 29.3% ± 0.8 for the green and the traditional method, respectively), showing that the green approaches did not affect the fatty acid profile. Moreover, the cytotoxic activity of produced lipids was assessed by comparing human colon cancer cells (HCT-116) and epithelial nontumorigenic immortalized cells (HCEC-1CT). Results suggest that the lipid extracts have a selective effect, reducing the viability of the colon carcinoma cells but not the nontumorigenic cells. Thus, this study provides new eco-innovative approaches for extracting the omega-3 LC-PUFA from microalgae with promising biological properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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10 pages, 2252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of an Ultra-Sonication Extraction Method for Major Compounds Found in Mondia whitei Using Design of Experiment

by Ramakwala Christinah Chokwe, Simiso Dube and Mathew Muzi Nindi

Molecules 2022, 27(9), 2836; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27092836 - 29 Apr 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1531

Abstract

Optimum extraction conditions are vital in quality control methods to enable accurate quantification of the compounds of interest. An ultra-sonication method was developed for the extraction of seven major compounds found in Mondia whitei. Extraction temperature, time, power, frequency, percentage of ethanol [...] Read more.

Optimum extraction conditions are vital in quality control methods to enable accurate quantification of the compounds of interest. An ultra-sonication method was developed for the extraction of seven major compounds found in Mondia whitei. Extraction temperature, time, power, frequency, percentage of ethanol in water and solvent to sample ratio were screened to access their significance on the percentage recovery of the compounds of interest. These parameters were screened using Descriptive screening design. Extraction temperature, solvent to sample ratio and the interaction between temperature and percentage ethanol in water were found to have a significant effect on the response. These parameters were then optimized using central composite design. The optimum conditions were found to be 66.1% ethanol in water, 70 °C temperature and 3 mL: 5 mg solvent to sample ratio. This method was successfully applied in the development of a quality control method for the seven compounds in Mondia whitei samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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22 pages, 3144 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polyphenol Extract from “Greco” Grape Canes: Characterization, Antioxidant Capacity, and Antitumor Effects on Cal-33 and JHU-SCC-011 Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

by Giuseppe Squillaci, Francesca Vitiello, Laura Mosca, Francesco La Cara, Giovanna Cacciapuoti, Marina Porcelli and Alessandra Morana

Molecules 2022, 27(8), 2576; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27082576 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1588

Abstract

In the current study, we determined the antioxidant properties of “Greco” grape cane extracts, a typical cultivar of southern Italy. We also explored the anticancer activity of the polyphenol-rich fraction of the extract on head and neck squamous carcinoma cells (HNSCC) and investigated [...] Read more.

In the current study, we determined the antioxidant properties of “Greco” grape cane extracts, a typical cultivar of southern Italy. We also explored the anticancer activity of the polyphenol-rich fraction of the extract on head and neck squamous carcinoma cells (HNSCC) and investigated the underlying mechanism. Aqueous extracts were prepared at different pHs and extraction times and the total phenolic and reducing sugar contents were estimated. Radical Scavenging Activity (RSA), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) of the extracts were measured. A polyphenol-rich fraction, accounting for 6.7% by weight and characterized mainly by procyanidins and stilbenoids, was prepared from the extract obtained at pH 7 for 60 min. We demonstrated that the extract exerted a cytotoxic effect on HNSCC cell lines by inducing cell cycle arrest via cyclin downregulation and p21 upregulation, and by triggering apoptosis through caspase cascade activation, PARP-1 cleavage, and an increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. We furnished evidence that the polyphenol-rich fraction played the major role in the anticancer activity of the extract. These outcomes highlighted grape canes from the “Greco” cultivar as a valuable source of polyphenols that may represent good candidates for the design of innovative adjuvant therapies in the treatment of HNSCC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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11 pages, 2394 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibitory Effect of Acer truncatum Bunge Seed Coat Extract on Fatty Acid Synthase, Differentiation and Lipid Accumulation in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

by Yan Liang, Fan Kong, Xiaofeng Ma and Qingyan Shu

Molecules 2022, 27(4), 1324; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27041324 - 16 Feb 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1517

Abstract

Acer truncatum Bunge is now widely cultivated throughout the world. Fatty acid synthase (FAS) is a potential target in the treatment of both obesity and cancer. Only a few FAS inhibitors have been reported. In this study, the inhibitory effect of A. truncatum [...] Read more.

Acer truncatum Bunge is now widely cultivated throughout the world. Fatty acid synthase (FAS) is a potential target in the treatment of both obesity and cancer. Only a few FAS inhibitors have been reported. In this study, the inhibitory effect of A. truncatum seed coat (ESA) on FAS and the inhibition mechanisms were investigated using a FAS activity assay and an enzyme kinetics study. The main chemicals of ESA were analyzed with UPLC-MS/MS. The effects of ESA on 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation and lipid accumulation were investigated using Oil red O staining. We first identified seven main compounds (quinic acid, malic acid, gentisic acid, procyanidin dimer, procyanidin trimer, catechin, and quercetin) from 50% ethanol extracts of seed coats of A. truncatum (ESAs), which were then found to inhibit 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation at the concentration of 50 μg/mL. ESA obviously reduced the visible triglyceride droplets accumulation, and dramatically decreased the number of the adipocytes at a comparatively high concentration. It is suggested that the effects are due to the inhibition of FAS by ESA; FAS activity is inhibited by ESA at a half inhibition concentration (IC₅₀) of 0.57 μg/mL, which is lower than that of classically known FAS inhibitors. Meanwhile, ESA displayed different inhibition kinetics and reacting sites for FAS. These results provide new clues for the development of novel products for obesity treatment and a scientific basis for the full use of byproducts for future industrial production of vegetable oil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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15 pages, 289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Supercritical CO₂ Plant Extracts Show Antifungal Activities against Crop-Borne Fungi

by Katja Schoss, Nina Kočevar Glavač, Jasna Dolenc Koce and Sabina Anžlovar

Molecules 2022, 27(3), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27031132 - 08 Feb 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2591

Abstract

Fungal infections of cultivated food crops result in extensive losses of crops at the global level, while resistance to antifungal agents continues to grow. Supercritical fluid extraction using CO₂ (SFE-CO₂) has gained attention as an environmentally well-accepted extraction method, as [...] Read more.

Fungal infections of cultivated food crops result in extensive losses of crops at the global level, while resistance to antifungal agents continues to grow. Supercritical fluid extraction using CO₂ (SFE-CO₂) has gained attention as an environmentally well-accepted extraction method, as CO₂ is a non-toxic, inert and available solvent, and the extracts obtained are, chemically, of greater or different complexities compared to those of conventional extracts. The SFE-CO₂ extracts of Achillea millefolium, Calendula officinalis, Chamomilla recutita, Helichrysum arenarium, Humulus lupulus, Taraxacum officinale, Juniperus communis, Hypericum perforatum, Nepeta cataria, Crataegus sp. and Sambucus nigra were studied in terms of their compositions and antifungal activities against the wheat- and buckwheat-borne fungi Alternaria alternata, Epicoccum nigrum, Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium poae. The C. recutita and H. arenarium extracts were the most efficacious, and these inhibited the growth of most of the fungi by 80% to 100%. Among the fungal species, B. cinerea was the most susceptible to the treatments with the SFE-CO₂ extracts, while Fusarium spp. were the least. This study shows that some of these SFE-CO₂ extracts have promising potential for use as antifungal agents for selected crop-borne fungi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

19 pages, 3908 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cytotoxicity of Mahanimbine from Curry Leaves in Human Breast Cancer Cells (MCF-7) via Mitochondrial Apoptosis and Anti-Angiogenesis

by Yahya Hasan Hobani

Molecules 2022, 27(3), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27030971 - 01 Feb 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2722

Abstract

Mahanimbine (MN) is a carbazole alkaloid present in the leaves of Murraya koenigii, which is an integral part of medicinal and culinary practices in Asia. In the present study, the anticancer, apoptotic and anti-invasive potential of MN has been delineated in vitro. Apoptosis [...] Read more.

Mahanimbine (MN) is a carbazole alkaloid present in the leaves of Murraya koenigii, which is an integral part of medicinal and culinary practices in Asia. In the present study, the anticancer, apoptotic and anti-invasive potential of MN has been delineated in vitro. Apoptosis cells determination was carried out utilizing the acridine orange/propidium iodide double fluorescence test. During treatment, caspase-3/7,-8, and-9 enzymes and mitochondrial membrane potentials (Δψm) were evaluated. Anti-invasive properties were tested utilizing a wound-healing scratch test. Protein and gene expression studies were used to measure Bax, Bcl2, MMP-2, and -9 levels. The results show that MN could induce apoptosis in MCF-7 cells at 14 µM concentration IC₅₀. MN-induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, with loss in Δψm, regulation of Bcl2/Bax, and accumulation of ROS (p ≤ 0.05). Caspase-3/7 and -9 enzyme activity were detected in MCF-7 cells after 24 and 48 h of treatment with MN. The anti-invasive property of MN was shown by inhibition of wound healing at the dose-dependent level and significantly suppressed mRNA and protein expression on MMP-2 and -9 in MCF-7 cells treated with a sub-cytotoxic dose of MN. The overall results indicate MN is a potential therapeutic compound against breast cancer as an apoptosis inducer and anti-invasive agent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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25 pages, 4075 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Flower Extracts as Multifunctional Dyes in the Cosmetics Industry

by Tomasz Bujak, Martyna Zagórska-Dziok, Aleksandra Ziemlewska, Zofia Nizioł-Łukaszewska, Kamila Lal, Tomasz Wasilewski and Zofia Hordyjewicz-Baran

Molecules 2022, 27(3), 922; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27030922 - 29 Jan 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5472

Abstract

Flowers are a natural source of bioactive compounds that not only have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties, but can also be used as natural dyes. For this reason, nowadays plants are widely used to produce natural cosmetics and foods. In these studies, the [...] Read more.

Flowers are a natural source of bioactive compounds that not only have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties, but can also be used as natural dyes. For this reason, nowadays plants are widely used to produce natural cosmetics and foods. In these studies, the properties of the water extracts of Papaver rhoeas L., Punica granatum L., Clitoria ternatea L., Carthamus tinctorius L., and Gomphrena globosa L., as bioactive, natural dyes, were investigated. Plant flower extracts were tested for their antioxidant (ABTS and DPPH radical methods) and anti-inflammatory effects by determining the ability to inhibit the activity of lipoxygenase and proteinase. The extracts were tested for their cytotoxic effect on skin cells, using Alamar Blue and Neutral Red tests. The ability to inhibit the activity of enzymes responsible for the destruction of elastin and collagen was also studied. Research has shown that extracts have no toxic effect on skin cells, are a rich source of antioxidants and show the ability to inhibit the activity of elastase and collagenase enzymes. P. rhoeas extract showed the strongest antioxidant properties with IC50 value of 24.8 ± 0.42 µg/mL and 47.5 ± 1.01 µg/mL in ABTS and DPPH tests, respectively. The tested plants are also characterized by an anti-inflammatory property, for which the ability to inhibit lipoxygenase at a level above 80% and proteinase at the level of about 55% was noted. Extracts from P. rhoeas, C. ternatea, and C. tinctorius show the strongest coloring ability and can permanently dye cosmetic products, without significant color changes during the storage of the product. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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16 pages, 5051 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Synergistic Antioxidant Effect of Typical Functional Components of Hydroethanolic Leaf Extract from Ginkgo Biloba In Vitro

by Lihu Zhang, Chunyi Zhu, Xiaoqing Liu, Erzheng Su, Fuliang Cao and Linguo Zhao

Molecules 2022, 27(2), 439; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27020439 - 10 Jan 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2371

Abstract

The predicted anti-oxidation is related to apoptosis, proliferation, lipid metabolism, cell differentiation, and immune response. There are some differences in the antioxidant capacity of the four typical components of ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) including ginkgo flavone (GF), ginkgolide (G), procyanidins (OPC), and organic [...] Read more.

The predicted anti-oxidation is related to apoptosis, proliferation, lipid metabolism, cell differentiation, and immune response. There are some differences in the antioxidant capacity of the four typical components of ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) including ginkgo flavone (GF), ginkgolide (G), procyanidins (OPC), and organic acids (OA), and any two members of them can exhibit apparent synergistic effects. The order of DPPH scavenging ability was: OPC > GF > OA > G. The scavenging ability of procyanidins was close to that of VC; the scavenging capacity of ABTS was GF > OPC > OA > G. The GF:OPC (1:9) showed the best synergism in scavenging DPPH and ABTS radicals. The 193 kinds of small molecules reported in EGb were obtained by analyzing the properties of EGb. In order to construct a corresponding biological activity target set, molecular docking and the network pharmacology method were employed to build the molecular action mechanism network of a compound target, and the main biological functions and signaling pathways involved with their antioxidant activities were predicted. The results displayed that the top ten compounds which belonged to the two broad categories, ginkgo flavonoids and proanthocyanidins, could interact closely with several important target proteins (CASP3, SOD2, MAPK1, HSPA4, and NQO1). This would be expected to lay a theoretical foundation for the deep development of Ginkgo biloba extract. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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14 pages, 2627 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Proangiogenic Effect of Affinin and an Ethanolic Extract from Heliopsis longipes Roots: Ex Vivo and In Vivo Evidence

by Paola Estefanía García-Badillo, Anaguiven Avalos-Soriano, Josué López-Martínez, Teresa García-Gasca and Jesús Eduardo Castro-Ruiz

Molecules 2021, 26(24), 7670; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26247670 - 18 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2902

Abstract

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, underlies tissue development and repair. Some medicinal plant-derived compounds can modulate the angiogenic response. Heliopsis longipes, a Mexican medicinal plant, is widely used because of its effects on pain and inflammation. The main bioactive phytochemicals [...] Read more.

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, underlies tissue development and repair. Some medicinal plant-derived compounds can modulate the angiogenic response. Heliopsis longipes, a Mexican medicinal plant, is widely used because of its effects on pain and inflammation. The main bioactive phytochemicals from H. longipes roots are alkamides, where affinin is the most abundant. Scientific studies show various medical effects of organic extracts of H. longipes roots and affinin that share some molecular pathways with the angiogenesis process, with the vasodilation mechanism of action being the most recent. This study investigates whether pure affinin and the ethanolic extract from Heliopsis longipes roots (HLEE) promote angiogenesis. Using the aortic ring rat assay (ex vivo method) and the direct in vivo angiogenesis assay, where angioreactors were implanted in CD1 female mice, showed that affinin and the HLEE increased vascular growth in a dose-dependent manner in both bioassays. This is the first study showing the proangiogenic effect of H. longipes. Further studies should focus on the mechanism of action and its possible therapeutic use in diseases characterized by insufficient angiogenesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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12 pages, 765 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Retrieval of High Added Value Natural Bioactive Coumarins from Mandarin Juice-Making Industrial Byproduct

by Eleni D. Myrtsi, Apostolis Angelis, Sofia D. Koulocheri, Sofia Mitakou and Serkos A. Haroutounian

Molecules 2021, 26(24), 7527; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26247527 - 12 Dec 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2175

Abstract

Cold pressed essential oil (CPEO) of mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco), a by-product of the juice-making industrial process known to contain large amounts of polymethoxyflavones, was exploited for its content in high added value natural coumarins. The study herein afforded a method referring [...] Read more.

Cold pressed essential oil (CPEO) of mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco), a by-product of the juice-making industrial process known to contain large amounts of polymethoxyflavones, was exploited for its content in high added value natural coumarins. The study herein afforded a method referring to the evaporation of CPEO volatile fraction under mild conditions (reduced pressure and temperature below 35 °C) as azeotrope with isopropanol. This allowed the isolation of high added value coumarins from the non-volatile fragment using preparative High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Pilot-scale application of this procedure afforded for each kg of CPEO processed the following natural bioactive coumarins in chemically pure forms: heraclenol (38–55 mg), 8-gerayloxypsoralen (35–51 mg), auraptene (22–33 mg), and bergamottin (14–19 mg). The structures of coumarins were verified by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and HPLC co-injection with authentic standards. Thus, the low market value mandarin CPEO with current value of 17 to 22 EUR/kg can be valorized through the production of four highly bioactive natural compounds worth 3479 to 5057 EUR/kg, indicating the great potentials of this methodology in the terms of the circular economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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16 pages, 975 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemical and Bioactive Characterization of the Essential Oils Obtained from Three Mediterranean Plants

by Virginie Xavier, Tiane C. Finimundy, Sandrina A. Heleno, Joana S. Amaral, Ricardo C. Calhelha, Josiana Vaz, Tânia C. S. P. Pires, Irene Mediavilla, Luis Saúl Esteban, Isabel C. F. R. Ferreira and Lillian Barros

Molecules 2021, 26(24), 7472; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26247472 - 10 Dec 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3697

Abstract

Cupressus sempervirens L., Juniperus communis L. and Cistus ladanifer L. are Mediterranean arboreal and shrub species that possess essential oils (EO) in their leaves and branches. This study aimed at characterizing the EOs obtained by steam distillation from the three species collected in [...] Read more.

Cupressus sempervirens L., Juniperus communis L. and Cistus ladanifer L. are Mediterranean arboreal and shrub species that possess essential oils (EO) in their leaves and branches. This study aimed at characterizing the EOs obtained by steam distillation from the three species collected in different locations from Spain (Almazán, Andévalo, Barriomartín, Cerezal, Ermitas and Huéscar). For this purpose, volatiles composition was determined by GC-MS, and different bioactivities were evaluated. The highest content in terpenes was observed in C. sempervirens (Huéscar origin) followed by J. communis (Almazán origin), corresponding to 92% and 91.9% of total compounds, respectively. With exception of C. ladanifer from Cerezal that presented viridiflorol as the most abundant compound, all the three species presented in common the α-pinene as the major compound. The EOs from C. ladanifer showed high antibacterial potential, presenting MIC values from 0.3 to 1.25 mg/mL. Concerning other bioactivities, C. ladanifer EO revealed an oxidation inhibition of 83%, while J. communis showed cytotoxicity in the MCF-7 cell line, and C. sempervirens and C. ladanifer EOs exhibited the highest potential on NCI-H460 cell lines. Nevertheless, some EOs revealed toxicity against non-tumoral cells but generally presented a GI₅₀ value higher than that of the tumor cell lines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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21 pages, 3340 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Demonstration of Allium sativum Extract Inhibitory Effect on Biodeteriogenic Microbial Strain Growth, Biofilm Development, and Enzymatic and Organic Acid Production

by Viorica Maria Corbu, Irina Gheorghe, Ioana Cristina Marinaș, Elisabeta Irina Geană, Maria Iasmina Moza, Ortansa Csutak and Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc

Molecules 2021, 26(23), 7195; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26237195 - 27 Nov 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2904

Abstract

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the efficiency of Allium sativum hydro-alcoholic extract (ASE) againstFigure growth, biofilm development, and soluble factor production of more than 200 biodeteriogenic microbial strains isolated from cultural heritage objects and buildings. The [...] Read more.

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the efficiency of Allium sativum hydro-alcoholic extract (ASE) againstFigure growth, biofilm development, and soluble factor production of more than 200 biodeteriogenic microbial strains isolated from cultural heritage objects and buildings. The plant extract composition and antioxidant activities were determined spectrophotometrically and by HPLC–MS. The bioevaluation consisted of the qualitative (adapted diffusion method) and the quantitative evaluation of the inhibitory effect on planktonic growth (microdilution method), biofilm formation (violet crystal microtiter method), and production of microbial enzymes and organic acids. The garlic extract efficiency was correlated with microbial strain taxonomy and isolation source (the fungal strains isolated from paintings and paper and bacteria from wood, paper, and textiles were the most susceptible). The garlic extract contained thiosulfinate (307.66 ± 0.043 µM/g), flavonoids (64.33 ± 7.69 µg QE/g), and polyphenols (0.95 ± 0.011 mg GAE/g) as major compounds and demonstrated the highest efficiency against the Aspergillus versicolor (MIC 3.12–6.25 mg/mL), A. ochraceus (MIC: 3.12 mg/mL), Penicillium expansum (MIC 6.25–12.5 mg/mL), and A. niger (MIC 3.12–50 mg/mL) strains. The extract inhibited the adherence capacity (IIBG% 95.08–44.62%) and the production of cellulase, organic acids, and esterase. This eco-friendly solution shows promising potential for the conservation and safeguarding of tangible cultural heritage, successfully combating the biodeteriogenic microorganisms without undesirable side effects for the natural ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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15 pages, 2119 KiB

Open AccessArticle

HPTLC and FTIR Fingerprinting of Olive Leaves Extracts and ATR-FTIR Characterisation of Major Flavonoids and Polyphenolics

by Snezana Agatonovic-Kustrin, Vladimir Gegechkori, Dementyev Sergey Petrovich, Kobakhidze Tamara Ilinichna and David William Morton

Molecules 2021, 26(22), 6892; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26226892 - 16 Nov 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3473

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of spontaneous microbial maceration on the release and extraction of the flavonoids and phenolics from olive leaves. Bioprofiling based on thin-layer chromatography effect-directed detection followed by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy proved to be a reliable [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of spontaneous microbial maceration on the release and extraction of the flavonoids and phenolics from olive leaves. Bioprofiling based on thin-layer chromatography effect-directed detection followed by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy proved to be a reliable and convenient method for simultaneous comparison of the extracts. Results show that fermentation significantly enhances the extraction of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The polyphenolic content was increased from 6.7 µg GAE (gallic acid equivalents) to 25.5 µg GAE, antioxidants from 10.3 µg GAE to 25.3 µg GAE, and flavonoid content from 42 µg RE (rutin equivalents) to 238 µg RE per 20 µL of extract. Increased antioxidant activity of fermented ethyl acetate extracts was attributed to the higher concentration of extracted flavonoids and phenolic terpenoids, while increased antioxidant activity in fermented ethanol extract was due to increased extraction of flavonoids as extraction of phenolic compounds was not improved. Lactic acid that is released during fermentation and glycine present in the olive leaves form a natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) with significantly increased solubility for flavonoids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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15 pages, 3247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wood Extractives of Silver Fir and Their Antioxidant and Antifungal Properties

by Viljem Vek, Eli Keržič, Ida Poljanšek, Patrik Eklund, Miha Humar and Primož Oven

Molecules 2021, 26(21), 6412; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26216412 - 23 Oct 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2631

Abstract

The chemical composition of extractives in the sapwood (SW), heartwood (HW), knotwood (KW), and branchwood (BW of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) was analyzed, and their antifungal and antioxidant properties were studied. In addition, the variability of extractives content in a centripetal [...] Read more.

The chemical composition of extractives in the sapwood (SW), heartwood (HW), knotwood (KW), and branchwood (BW of silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) was analyzed, and their antifungal and antioxidant properties were studied. In addition, the variability of extractives content in a centripetal direction, i.e., from the periphery of the stem towards the pith, was investigated. The extracts were analyzed chemically with gravimetry, spectrophotometry, and chromatography. The antifungal and antioxidative properties of the extracts were evaluated by the agar well diffusion method and the diphenyl picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging method. Average amounts of hydrophilic extractives were higher in KW (up to 210.4 mg/g) and BW (148.6 mg/g) than in HW (34.1 mg/g) and SW (14.8 mg/g). Extractives identified included lignans (isolariciresinol, lariciresinol, secoisolariciresinol, pinoresinol, matairesinol) phenolic acids (homovanillic acid, coumaric acid, ferulic acid), and flavonoids epicatechin, taxifolin, quercetin). Secoisolariciresinol was confirmed to be the predominant compound in the KW (29.8 mg/g) and BW (37.6 mg/g) extracts. The largest amount of phenolic compounds was extracted from parts of knots (281.7 mg/g) embedded in the sapwood and from parts of branches (258.9 mg/g) adjacent to the stem. HW contained more lignans in its older sections. Hydrophilic extracts from knots and branches inhibited the growth of wood-decaying fungi and molds. KW and BW extracts were better free radical scavengers than HW extracts. The results of the biological activity tests suggest that the protective function of phenolic extracts in silver fir wood can also be explained by their antioxidative properties. The results of this study describe BW as a potential source of phenolic extractives in silver fir. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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Review

Jump to: Research

49 pages, 11466 KiB

Open AccessReview

Phytoconstituents and Pharmacological Activities of Indian Camphorweed (Pluchea indica): A Multi-Potential Medicinal Plant of Nutritional and Ethnomedicinal Importance

by Sabrin R. M. Ibrahim, Alaa A. Bagalagel, Reem M. Diri, Ahmad O. Noor, Hussain T. Bakhsh and Gamal A. Mohamed

Molecules 2022, 27(8), 2383; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27082383 - 07 Apr 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3460

Abstract

Pluchea indica (L.) Less. (Asteraceae) commonly known as Indian camphorweed, pluchea, or marsh fleabane has gained great importance in various traditional medicines for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. It is utilized to cure several illnesses such as lumbago, kidney stones, leucorrhea, inflammation, gangrenous [...] Read more.

Pluchea indica (L.) Less. (Asteraceae) commonly known as Indian camphorweed, pluchea, or marsh fleabane has gained great importance in various traditional medicines for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. It is utilized to cure several illnesses such as lumbago, kidney stones, leucorrhea, inflammation, gangrenous and atonic ulcer, hemorrhoids, dysentery, eye diseases, itchy skin, acid stomach, dysuria, abdominal pain, scabies, fever, sore muscles, dysentery, diabetes, rheumatism, etc. The plant or its leaves in the form of tea are commonly used for treating diabetes and rheumatism. The plant is a rich source of calcium, vitamin C, dietary fiber, and β-carotene. Various biomolecules have been isolated from P. indica, including thiophenes, terpenes, quinic acids, sterols, lignans, phenolics, and flavonoids. The current review reports detailed information about the phytoconstituents and pharmacological relevance of P. indica and the link to its traditional uses. The reported studies validated the efficacy and safety of P. indica, as well as supported its traditional uses for treating various ailments and promoting health and well-being. Thus, this could encourage the development of this plant into a healthy food supplement or medicine for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. However, further studies on the drug interactions, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and metabolism, as well as clinical trials, should be carried out. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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20 pages, 8176 KiB

Open AccessReview

Phytochemical Constituents and Pharmacological Potential of Tamus communis Rhizomes

by Iva Slavova, Teodora Tomova, Slavena Kusovska, Yoana Chukova and Mariana Argirova

Molecules 2022, 27(6), 1851; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27061851 - 12 Mar 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2285

Abstract

Tamus communis L. is a plant distributed in a number of geographical areas whose rhizome has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic remedy. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of the chemical composition and biological activity of the [...] Read more.

Tamus communis L. is a plant distributed in a number of geographical areas whose rhizome has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic remedy. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of the chemical composition and biological activity of the extracts or individual compounds of the rhizome. The data for the principal secondary metabolites are systematized: sterols, steroidal saponins, phenanthrenes, dihydrophenanthrenes, etc. Results of biological tests for anti-inflammatory action, cytotoxicity, anticholinesterase effect, and xanthine oxidase inhibition are presented. Some open questions about the therapeutic properties of the plant are also addressed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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11 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessReview

Antioxidant, Anti-Obesity, Nutritional and Other Beneficial Effects of Different Chili Pepper: A Review

by Azrina Azlan, Sharmin Sultana, Chan Suk Huei and Muhammad Rizal Razman

Molecules 2022, 27(3), 898; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27030898 - 28 Jan 2022

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 7397

Abstract

Fruits and vegetables are important components of a healthy diet. They are rich sources of vitamins and minerals, dietary fibre and a host of beneficial non-nutrient substances including plant sterols, flavonoids and other antioxidants. It has been reported that reduced intake of fruits [...] Read more.

Fruits and vegetables are important components of a healthy diet. They are rich sources of vitamins and minerals, dietary fibre and a host of beneficial non-nutrient substances including plant sterols, flavonoids and other antioxidants. It has been reported that reduced intake of fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Chili pepper, is a common and important spice used to enhance taste and nutrition. Over the years, reports have shown its potential as antioxidant and an anti-obesity agent. Obesity is a serious health concern as it may initiate other common chronic diseases. Due to the side effects of synthetic antioxidants and anti-obesity drugs, scientists are now focusing on natural products which produce similar effects to synthetic chemicals. This up-to-date review addresses this research gap and presents, in an accessible format, the nutritional, antioxidant and anti-obesity properties of different chili peppers. This review article serves as a reference guide for use of chili peppers as anti-obesity agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

23 pages, 436 KiB

Open AccessReview

Bell Peppers (Capsicum annum L.) Losses and Wastes: Source for Food and Pharmaceutical Applications

by Luis Miguel Anaya-Esparza, Zuamí Villagrán-de la Mora, Olga Vázquez-Paulino, Felipe Ascencio and Angélica Villarruel-López

Molecules 2021, 26(17), 5341; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26175341 - 02 Sep 2021

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 16582

Abstract

Currently, the high added-value compounds contained in plant by-products and wastes offer a wide spectrum of opportunities for their reuse and valorization, contributing to the circular economy. The bell pepper (Capsicum annum L.) is an exotic vegetable with high nutritional value that, [...] Read more.

Currently, the high added-value compounds contained in plant by-products and wastes offer a wide spectrum of opportunities for their reuse and valorization, contributing to the circular economy. The bell pepper (Capsicum annum L.) is an exotic vegetable with high nutritional value that, after processing, leaves wastes (peel, seeds, and leaves) that represent desirable raw material for obtaining phytochemical compounds. This review summarizes and discusses the relevant information on the phytochemical profile of bell peppers and their related biological properties as an alternative to revalorize losses and wastes from bell peppers for their application in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Bell pepper fruits, seeds, and leaves contain bioactive compounds (phenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, tocopherol, and pectic polysaccharides) that exhibit antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, immunosuppressive and immunostimulant properties, and antidiabetic, antitumoral and neuroprotective activities, and have a potential use as functional food additives. In this context, the revalorization of food waste is positioned as a technological and innovative research area with beneficial effects for the population, the economy, and the environment. Further studies are required to guarantee the safety use of these compounds and to understand their mechanisms of action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extraction, Characterization, and Potential Applications of Bioactive Molecules from Natural Sources II)

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