Antioxidants

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52 pages, 10706 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancement of Cognitive Benefits and Anti-Anxiety Effects of Phytolacca americana Fruits in a Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Model of Scopolamine-Induced Memory Impairment

by Lucia-Florina Popovici, Ion Brinza, Florentina Gatea, Georgiana Ileana Badea, Emanuel Vamanu, Simona Oancea and Lucian Hritcu

Antioxidants 2025, 14(1), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14010097 - 15 Jan 2025

Viewed by 593

Abstract

Phytolacca americana fruits exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. This study aims to investigate the phenolic profile of hydroethanolic extracts from both fresh (PEC) and dried (PEU) fruits of P. americana using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) [...] Read more.

Phytolacca americana fruits exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. This study aims to investigate the phenolic profile of hydroethanolic extracts from both fresh (PEC) and dried (PEU) fruits of P. americana using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and to evaluate their impact on anxiety-like behavior, memory, oxidative stress, and cholinergic status in zebrafish (Danio rerio, Tübingen strain) treated with scopolamine (SCO, 100 μM). Acute administration of PEC and PEU (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/L) was conducted for one hour per day. In silico analyses were performed to evaluate the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the phenolic compounds discerned in the two extracts, using platforms such as SwissAdme, Molinspiration, ProToX-III, AdmetLab 3.0, PKCSM, and PASS. Anxiety-like behavior and memory performance were assessed through specific behavioral assays, including the novel tank test (NTT), light/dark test (LD), novel approach test (NAT), Y-maze, and novel object recognition (NOR). Subsequently, the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and the extent of oxidative stress in the zebrafish brain were investigated. Our findings suggest that both PEC and PEU possess anxiolytic effects, alleviating SCO-induced anxiety and enhancing cognitive performance in amnesic zebrafish. Furthermore, these extracts demonstrated the ability to mitigate cholinergic deficits by inhibiting AChE activity and supporting antioxidant defense mechanisms through increased activity of antioxidant enzymes and reduced lipid and protein peroxidation. These results highlight the potential use of P. americana fruit extracts in managing anxiety and cognitive impairments related to dementia conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Bioactive Plant Compounds for Therapeutic Purpose—2nd Edition)

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28 pages, 3460 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant Valorization of PLE Extracts from Macroalgae (Cladophora glomerata): In Vitro Assessment of Nanoemulsions Against Oxidative Stress

by Lucía Sáez-González, Marcos Carreño-Díaz, Gema Blázquez-Abellán, Manuel J. Santander-Ortega, Rosa M. Martínez-García, Luis A. Martínez, Jose A. Carbajal and Lucía Castro-Vázquez

Antioxidants 2024, 13(11), 1370; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13111370 - 8 Nov 2024

Viewed by 750

Abstract

Driven by a growing global interest in natural products, macroalgae have emerged as a prime source for nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical applications. In the current research, the effect of oven-drying (OD) and freeze-drying (FD), as well as the pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) conditions, were [...] Read more.

Driven by a growing global interest in natural products, macroalgae have emerged as a prime source for nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical applications. In the current research, the effect of oven-drying (OD) and freeze-drying (FD), as well as the pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) conditions, were investigated in relation to the polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, chlorophylls, and tocochromanols levels in Cladophora glomerata extracts. The ethanol–water extracts (1:1) obtained with PLE-150 °C from macroalgae oven-dried (OD)-80 °C displayed the highest total polyphenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFCs), reaching 29.62 mg GAE/g and 5.92 mg QE/g. Aqueous extracts using PLE-200 °C were also an excellent environmentally friendly option for TPC and TFC isolation, which were the main factors accounting for the ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP antioxidant activity of the extracts. The remarkable effects of drying conditions positively affect the carotenoids, chlorophyll α-tocopherol, and α-tocotrienol levels from extracts showing 1.3–6 times higher amounts in extracts of Cladophora glomerata OD at 80 °C compared with other research approaches. Nanotechnology approaches allowed the formulation of antioxidant-loaded nanoemulsions from Cladophora glomerata extracts, providing stability and a great internalization rate that ameliorates to 85% the ROS levels, attenuating the oxidative stress induced by H₂O₂ in J774.1 macrophage cell line. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Bioactive Plant Compounds for Therapeutic Purpose—2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 1788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biological Properties of Boletus edulis Extract on Caco-2 Cells: Antioxidant, Anticancer, and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

by Javier Quero, Mónica Paesa, Carmen Morales, Gracia Mendoza, Jesús Osada, José António Teixeira, Pedro Ferreira-Santos and María Jesús Rodríguez-Yoldi

Antioxidants 2024, 13(8), 908; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13080908 - 27 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2086

Abstract

Boletus edulis (BE) is a mushroom well known for its taste, nutritional value, and medicinal properties. The objective of this work was to study the biological effects of BE extracts on human colon carcinoma cells (Caco-2), evaluating parameters related to oxidative stress and [...] Read more.

Boletus edulis (BE) is a mushroom well known for its taste, nutritional value, and medicinal properties. The objective of this work was to study the biological effects of BE extracts on human colon carcinoma cells (Caco-2), evaluating parameters related to oxidative stress and inflammation. In this study, a hydroethanolic extract of BE was obtained by ohmic heating green technology. The obtained BE extracts are mainly composed of sugars (mainly trehalose), phenolic compounds (taxifolin, rutin, and ellagic acid), and minerals (K, P, Mg, Na, Ca, Zn, Se, etc.). The results showed that BE extracts were able to reduce cancer cell proliferation by the induction of cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 stage, as well as cell death by autophagy and apoptosis, the alteration of mitochondrial membrane potential, and caspase-3 activation. The extracts modified the redox balance of the cell by increasing the ROS levels associated with a decrease in the thioredoxin reductase activity. Similarly, BE extracts attenuated Caco-2 inflammation by reducing both iNOS and COX-2 mRNA expression and COX-2 protein expression. In addition, BE extracts protected the intestine from the oxidative stress induced by H₂O₂. Therefore, this study provides information on the potential use of BE bioactive compounds as anticancer therapeutic agents and as functional ingredients to prevent oxidative stress in the intestinal barrier. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Bioactive Plant Compounds for Therapeutic Purpose—2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 2341 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ginger Polyphenols Reverse Molecular Signature of Amygdala Neuroimmune Signaling and Modulate Microbiome in Male Rats with Neuropathic Pain: Evidence for Microbiota–Gut–Brain Axis

by Chwan-Li Shen, Julianna Maria Santos, Moamen M. Elmassry, Viren Bhakta, Zarek Driver, Guangchen Ji, Vadim Yakhnitsa, Takaki Kiritoshi, Jacob Lovett, Abdul Naji Hamood, Shengmin Sang and Volker Neugebauer

Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050502 - 23 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2165

Abstract

Emerging evidence shows that the gut microbiota plays an important role in neuropathic pain (NP) via the gut–brain axis. Male rats were divided into sham, spinal nerve ligation (SNL), SNL + 200 mg GEG/kg BW (GEG200), and SNL + 600 mg GEG/kg BW [...] Read more.

Emerging evidence shows that the gut microbiota plays an important role in neuropathic pain (NP) via the gut–brain axis. Male rats were divided into sham, spinal nerve ligation (SNL), SNL + 200 mg GEG/kg BW (GEG200), and SNL + 600 mg GEG/kg BW (GEG600) for 5 weeks. The dosages of 200 and 600 mg GEG/kg BW for rats correspond to 45 g and 135 g raw ginger for human daily consumption, respectively. Both GEG groups mitigated SNL-induced NP behavior. GEG-supplemented animals had a decreased abundance of Rikenella, Muribaculaceae, Clostridia UCG-014, Mucispirillum schaedleri, RF39, Acetatifactor, and Clostridia UCG-009, while they had an increased abundance of Flavonifactor, Hungatella, Anaerofustis stercorihominis, and Clostridium innocuum group. Relative to sham rats, Fos and Gadd45g genes were upregulated, while Igf1, Ccl2, Hadc2, Rtn4rl1, Nfkb2, Gpr84, Pik3cg, and Abcc8 genes were downregulated in SNL rats. Compared to the SNL group, the GEG200 group and GEG600 group had increases/decreases in 16 (10/6) genes and 11 (1/10) genes, respectively. GEG downregulated Fos and Gadd45g genes and upregulated Hdac2 genes in the amygdala. In summary, GEG alleviates NP by modulating the gut microbiome and reversing a molecular neuroimmune signature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Bioactive Plant Compounds for Therapeutic Purpose—2nd Edition)

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31 pages, 5559 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemical Composition and Biological Properties of New Romanian Lavandula Species

by Ionuț Georgică Marchidan, Alina Ortan, Simona Marcu Spinu, Sorin Marius Avramescu, Ionela Avram, Radu Claudiu Fierascu and Narcisa Babeanu

Antioxidants 2023, 12(12), 2127; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12122127 - 16 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1863

Abstract

The aims of the present study were to evaluate for the first time the chemical composition and antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and antiproliferative potentials of the Romanian George 90 lavender species, as well as parental species, L. angustifolia and L. latifolia. The L. [...] Read more.

The aims of the present study were to evaluate for the first time the chemical composition and antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and antiproliferative potentials of the Romanian George 90 lavender species, as well as parental species, L. angustifolia and L. latifolia. The L. angustifolia, L. latifolia and George 90 essential oils were analyzed by GC-MS/MS and the L. angustifolia, L. latifolia and George 90 hydroalcoholic extracts were analyzed by HPLC-DAD. The antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and antiproliferative assays revealed that all the investigated species showed significant activities. The results highlighted the chemical composition and the promising biological potentials of the L. angustifolia, L. latifolia and George 90 lavender species, validating their ethnomedicinal value, which offers potential applications as natural drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Bioactive Plant Compounds for Therapeutic Purpose—2nd Edition)

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Review

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17 pages, 3218 KiB

Open AccessReview

Opportunities and Challenges of Soy Proteins with Different Processing Applications

by Zixiao Deng and Sung Woo Kim

Antioxidants 2024, 13(5), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13050569 - 5 May 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4505

Abstract

Soybean meal (SBM) is a prevailing plant protein supplement in animal diets because of its nutritional value and availability. This review paper explores the significance of SBM and processed soy products, emphasizing their nutritional and bioactive components, such as isoflavones and soyasaponins. These [...] Read more.

Soybean meal (SBM) is a prevailing plant protein supplement in animal diets because of its nutritional value and availability. This review paper explores the significance of SBM and processed soy products, emphasizing their nutritional and bioactive components, such as isoflavones and soyasaponins. These compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and are associated with a reduced prevalence of chronic diseases. However, the presence of antinutritional compounds in SBM presents a significant challenge. The paper evaluates various processing methods, including ethanol/acid wash, enzyme treatment, and fermentation, which are aimed at enhancing the nutritional value of soy products. It highlights the significance to maintain a balance between nutritional enhancement and the preservation of beneficial bioactive compounds, emphasizing the importance of different processing techniques to fully exploit the health benefits of soy-based products. Therefore, this review illuminates the complex balance between nutritional improvement, bioactive compound preservation, and the overall health implications of soy products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Bioactive Plant Compounds for Therapeutic Purpose—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 709 KiB

Open AccessReview

Exploring the Antioxidative Effects of Ginger and Cinnamon: A Comprehensive Review of Evidence and Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Other Oxidative Stress-Related Disorders

by Sladjana Novakovic, Vladimir Jakovljevic, Nikola Jovic, Kristina Andric, Milica Milinkovic, Teodora Anicic, Bozidar Pindovic, Elena Nikolaevna Kareva, Vladimir Petrovich Fisenko, Aleksandra Dimitrijevic and Jovana Joksimovic Jovic

Antioxidants 2024, 13(4), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13040392 - 25 Mar 2024

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7368

Abstract

Oxidative stress represents the pathophysiological basis for most disorders, including reproductive issues. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is heterogeneous endocrine disorder of women characterized primarily by irregular menstrual cycles, hyper-androgenism, and ovulatory dysfunction. In the last decades, PCOS was recognized as a systemic silent [...] Read more.

Oxidative stress represents the pathophysiological basis for most disorders, including reproductive issues. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is heterogeneous endocrine disorder of women characterized primarily by irregular menstrual cycles, hyper-androgenism, and ovulatory dysfunction. In the last decades, PCOS was recognized as a systemic silent inflammation and an oxidative disturbance-related disorder, exerting multifaceted symptoms, including metabolic. PCOS treatment should involve a personalized approach tailored to individual symptoms; however, the results are often unsatisfactory. Various supplementary treatments have been proposed to assist in the management and alleviation of PCOS symptoms. Cinnamon and ginger, known for millennia as herbs used in spices or traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases, are of interest in this study. The aim of this study is to evaluate and investigate the effects of cinnamon and ginger in PCOS patients. Using relevant keywords we searched through PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Web of science to find animal studies, pre-clinical, and clinical studies which were then reviewed for usage. Out of all of the reviewed studies a total of 65 studies were included in this review article. Cinnamon and ginger can affect hormonal status, lipid profile, obesity, and insulin resistance by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation. Generally, based on current clinical evidence, it was revealed that supplementation with cinnamon or ginger had a useful impact in patients with PCOS. This review summarizes the antioxidative effects of ginger and cinnamon in PCOS treatment, highlighting their potential benefits in other oxidative stress-related pathologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Bioactive Plant Compounds for Therapeutic Purpose—2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 4771 KiB

Open AccessReview

Management of the Brain: Essential Oils as Promising Neuroinflammation Modulator in Neurodegenerative Diseases

by Rosanna Avola, Alessandro Giuseppe Furnari, Adriana Carol Eleonora Graziano, Alessandra Russo and Venera Cardile

Antioxidants 2024, 13(2), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13020178 - 31 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3324

Abstract

Neuroinflammation, a pivotal factor in the pathogenesis of various brain disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, has become a focal point for therapeutic exploration. This review highlights neuroinflammatory mechanisms that hallmark neurodegenerative diseases and the potential benefits of essential oils in counteracting neuroinflammation and oxidative [...] Read more.

Neuroinflammation, a pivotal factor in the pathogenesis of various brain disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, has become a focal point for therapeutic exploration. This review highlights neuroinflammatory mechanisms that hallmark neurodegenerative diseases and the potential benefits of essential oils in counteracting neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, thereby offering a novel strategy for managing and mitigating the impact of various brain disorders. Essential oils, derived from aromatic plants, have emerged as versatile compounds with a myriad of health benefits. Essential oils exhibit robust antioxidant activity, serving as scavengers of free radicals and contributing to cellular defense against oxidative stress. Furthermore, essential oils showcase anti-inflammatory properties, modulating immune responses and mitigating inflammatory processes implicated in various chronic diseases. The intricate mechanisms by which essential oils and phytomolecules exert their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects were explored, shedding light on their multifaceted properties. Notably, we discussed their ability to modulate diverse pathways crucial in maintaining oxidative homeostasis and suppressing inflammatory responses, and their capacity to rescue cognitive deficits observed in preclinical models of neurotoxicity and neurodegenerative diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Capacity of Bioactive Plant Compounds for Therapeutic Purpose—2nd Edition)

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