Showing papers on "DPPH published in 2019"

Total Phenolic Content, Flavonoid Content and Antioxidant Potential of Wild Vegetables from Western Nepal.

Abstract: Eight selected wild vegetables from Nepal (Alternanthera sessilis, Basella alba, Cassia tora, Digera muricata, Ipomoea aquatica, Leucas cephalotes, Portulaca oleracea and Solanum nigrum) were investigated for their antioxidative potential using 2,2-dyphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and ferric thiocyanate (FTC) methods. Among the selected plant extracts C. tora displayed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity with an IC50 value 9.898 μg/mL, whereas A. sessilis had the maximum H2O2 scavenging activity with an IC50 value 16.25 μg/mL—very close to that of ascorbic acid (16.26 μg/mL). C. tora showed the highest absorbance in the FRAP assay and the lowest lipid peroxidation in the FTC assay. A methanol extract of A. sessilis resulted in the greatest phenolic content (292.65 ± 0.42 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g) measured by the Folin–Ciocalteu reagent method, while the smallest content was recorded for B. alba (72.66 ± 0.46 GAE/g). The greatest flavonoid content was observed with extracts of P. oleracea (39.38 ± 0.57 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g) as measured by an aluminium chloride colorimetric method, while the least was recorded for I. aquatica (6.61 ± 0.42 QE/g). There was a strong correlation between antioxidant activity with total phenolic (DPPH, R2 = 0.75; H2O2, R2 = 0.71) and total flavonoid content (DPPH, R2 = 0.84; H2O2, R2 = 0.66). This study demonstrates that these wild edible leafy plants could be a potential source of natural antioxidants.

Phytofabrication of Selenium Nanoparticles From Emblica officinalis Fruit Extract and Exploring Its Biopotential Applications: Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Biocompatibility

Abstract: In the present study, phytofabricated selenium nanoparticles (PF-SeNPs) were prepared from aqueous fruit extract of Emblica officinalis in a facile, green, economic, tactic and eco-friendly way. The aqueous fruit extract of E. officinalis was found to be rich with various secondary metabolites including phenolics (59.18 ± 2.91 mg gallic acid equivalents/g), flavonoids (38.50 ± 2.84 mg catechin equivalents/g), and tannins (44.28 ± 3.09 mg tannic acid equivalents/g) and determined that highly appropriate for the biosynthesis of nanoparticles. The facile phytofabrication of PF-SeNPs was confirmed by UV-visible and FTIR spectroscopic analysis. The XRD pattern and Raman spectroscopy showed that synthesized PF-SeNPs were amorphous in nature. The Zeta potential analysis confirmed that PF-SeNPs were negatively charged (-24.4 mV). The DLS analysis revealed that PF-SeNPs were in nano size and less aggregated with poly-dispersity index of less than 0.2. The SEM images depicted that PF-SeNPs were spherical in shape. The EDX analysis revealed that PF-SeNPs were constituted with Se (61.60%), C (29.96%), and O (4.41%). The HR-TEM analysis determined that PF-SeNPs were in nano size with an average diameter of 15-40 nm. The PF-SeNPs have offered fascinating bio-potential applications, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial and biocompatibility. They have also exhibited dose-dependent free radical scavenging activity, and EC50 was determined as 15.67 ± 1.41 and 18.84 ± 1.02 μg/mL for DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. The PF-SeNPs has also shown the wide range of antimicrobial activity on foodborne pathogens, and it was found to be highly efficient on fungi followed by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The biocompatibility of PF-SeNPs was assessed in N2a cells with much higher IC50 value (dose required to inhibit 50% of cell viability) compared to sodium selenite. Also, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and caspase-3 were much less altered on treatment of PF-SeNPs related to sodium selenite. The cytotoxic studies clearly determined that PF-SeNPs was much less toxic and safer related to sodium selenite. Thus, PF-SeNPs could find suitable application as antioxidant and antimicrobial agent in food, biomedical, and pharmaceutical industry.

Chemical characterization and antioxidant, cytotoxic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of ethanolic extract of Allium Saralicum R.M. Fritsch leaves rich in linolenic acid, methyl ester.

Abstract: The purpose of the recent research was to assess the chemical characterization and antioxidant, cytotoxic, antibacterial, and antifungal effects of Allium Saralicum R.M. Fritsch leaves. After identification of the plant, its ethanolic extract was obtained using Soxhlet extractor without leaving any chemicals in it. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was performed to detect the percentage, retention index, and time of A. Saralicum compounds. Agar diffusion tests were applied to determine the antibacterial and antifungal characteristics. In agar disk diffusion test, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was used as negative control, while antibacterial (Difloxacin, Chloramphenicol, Streptomycin, Gentamicin, Oxytetracycline, Ampicillin, and Amikacin) and antifungal (Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Miconazole, Amphotericin B, and Nystatin) antibiotics were used as positive controls. Macro broth tube test was run to determine Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). The findings indicated that linolenic acid, methyl ester was the most frequent constituent found in A. Saralicum. Indeed, A. Saralicum showed higher antibacterial and antifungal properties than all standard antibiotics (p ≤ .01). Also, A. Saralicum prevented the growth of all bacteria and fungi at 15–125 mg/mL concentrations and destroyed them at 15–250 mg/mL concentrations (p ≤ .01). DPPH free radical scavenging test was carried out to examine the antioxidant effect, which indicated similar antioxidant activity with butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT) as a positive control. The synthesized ethanolic extract had great cell viability dose-dependently and demonstrated this method was nontoxic for synthesizing A. Saralicum. In conclusion, the findings showed the useful antioxidant, non-cytotoxic, antibacterial, and antifungal effects of A. Saralicum ethanolic extract.

Ultrasound assisted extraction of bioactive compounds from pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peel

Abstract: Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) technology was used for extracting effective components from pomegranate (Punica granatum L.variety SisheKape-Ferdos) peel (POP). A response surface method was used to investigate the effects of independent process variables (ultrasonic amplitude (power control, UA): 20, 60 and 100%, and ultrasonic exposure time (UET): 5, 10 and 15 min) on the yield (Y) and antioxidant characteristics: total phenolic compounds (TPC), 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging (DPPH), ferric reducing-antioxidant power (FRAP), half maximal of radical-scavenging activity (IC50) of aqueous pomegranate peel extract. According to Derringer's desired function approach, the optimal conditions based on both individual and combinations of all process variables were UA 60% and UET 6.2 min, and at this optimum condition, the predicted maximum values of Y, TPC, DPPH, FRAP, and IC50 of the pomegranate peel extract (POPx) were 13.1%, 42.2 mg GA/g, 88.8%, 1824.6 μmol Fe2+/g, and 0.51 mg/mL, respectively. The experimental values were in a good agreement with the predicted values. Also, at optimal conditions, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extract (mean diameter of inhibition zone: 17.7 mm) showed that it had antifungal activities against Aspergillus niger.

In-vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Potential of GreenSynthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using Prosopis farcta Fruit Extract.

Abstract: Nowadays, green synthesis of metal nanoparticles has become a promising synthetic strategy in nanotechnology and materials sciences. In this research, biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was successfully accomplished in the presence of Prosopis farcta fruit extract as a reducing agent. Proceeding of the reaction was assessed by using UV-vis spectroscopy. Characterization of silver nanoparticles was carried out by X-ray Diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The influence of process variables such as temperature, reaction time, and extract concentration was also investigated to optimize the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles. The average size of synthesized AgNPs was 12.68 nm (10.26-14.65 nm). Furthermore, fruit extract and AgNPs were evaluated for total phenolic and flavonoid contents and were subjected to determine their antiradical scavenging activity using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay and antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumonia, Escherichia, Salmonella typhi using the disk diffusion method. The total phenols and flavonoids in AgNPs-containing plant extract were 462.69 (mg GAE/g extract) and 386.94 (mg QE/g extract) respectively, which were significantly higher than fruit extract. Biosynthesized AgNPs showed a higher antioxidant and antibacterial activity compared to P. farcta fruit extract alone. It could be concluded that P. farcta fruit extract can be extensively used in the production of potential antioxidant and antibacterial AgNPs for biomedical application.

Antibacterial and antioxidant properties of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose-based active composite films incorporating oregano essential oil nanoemulsions

Abstract: Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) was combined with oregano essential oil nanoemulsion (ORNE) at concentrations of 0–7.5% (v/v) to produce active composite films. The mechanical, optical, water vapour barrier, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of the composite films were evaluated. The composite films containing 5.0% (v/v) ORNE showed increased elongation at break compared to the control films, although their tensile strength and Young's modulus were lower. In addition, these composite films showed greater opacity and decreased UV and water vapour transmittance, indicating that incorporation of ORNE resulted in enhanced barrier properties. Furthermore, the composite films were effective against all tested bacterial strains, particularly against Salmonella typhimurium, as evidenced by the large inhibition zone attained (47.5 mm) in the disc diffusion test. Antioxidant activity was assessed by the DPPH and ABTS assays, with the composite films containing 5.0% (v/v) ORNE showing values approximately 69% and 46% higher than those of the control, respectively. Therefore, the developed composite films could potentially be used as active packaging with antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Biosynthesis of silver and gold nanoparticles using Musa acuminata colla flower and its pharmaceutical activity against bacteria and anticancer efficacy.

Abstract: Synthesis of nanoparticles using plant sources as reducing agent has become important, as physical and chemical methods are costlier and affects environment. Hence it is important to develop environment friendly nanoparticle synthesis by avoiding the use of toxic chemicals. The present study aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (Ag Nps) and gold nanoparticles (AuNps) using Musa acuminata colla flower and its pharmaceutical activity against extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) gene producing bacteria and anticancer efficacy. The synthesized Ag and Au NPs were analysed by means of UV–Vis, FTIR, XRD,SEM and EDAX evidenced the bioreduction of Ag+ ions to Ag0 and Au3+ ions to Au0 respectively. Both nanoparticles and flower extracts were studied for antibacterial activity of ESBL gene producing bacteria by disc diffusion and microdilution (Resazurin) method. In vitro anticancer efficacy (MCF-7) and toxicity (VERO) of AgNPs, AuNPs, aqueous extract and ethanol extract of flowers were performed by MTT assay. IC50 value for DPPH analysis was at 390 μg and 460 μg for ethanol and aqueous extract respectively. Total antioxidant content was found be 740 μg/mg and 460 μg/mg for ethanol and aqueous extract. GCMS analysis authenticated the existence of the compounds namely, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid(z,z)- and n-hexadecanoic acid in the crude extract of the samples. Among the samples, AgNPs had best antibacterial activity. AgNPs and AuNPs were confirmed by colour change to reddish brown and ruby red. Further ƛmax were obtained at 474 and 540 nm by UV - visible spectrum. SEM analysis revealed the particle size ranges from 12.6 to 15.7 nm for silver and 10.1 to 15.6 nm for gold nanoparticles. The EDAX spectrum shows a strong signal for elemental Ag and Au at ~ 3 keV and 1.5 keV. The XRD patterns for silver and gold nanoparticles at 36.701, 42.900, 63.281 and 76.398 corresponding to the lattice planes 2.4467, 2.1064, 1.46839, 1.24564 nm and 27.32, 36.7228, 39.56, 42.888, 63.253, 63.253, 65.02 and 76.383 corresponding to the lattice planes 3.262, 2.44530, 2.276, 2.1070, 1.46897, 1.4332 and 1.24585 nm. The IC50 values for MCF-7 and VERO cells were 30.0 μg/ml and 55.0 μg/ml respectively.

Nutraceuticals, antioxidant pigments, and phytochemicals in the leaves of Amaranthus spinosus and Amaranthus viridis weedy species.

Abstract: Six selected weedy Amaranthus genotypes (three accessions from each species of A. viridis and A. spinosus) were evaluated in terms of nutrients, minerals, antioxidant constituents and antioxidant activity for the possibilities of weedy species as a vegetable cultivar in a randomized complete block design with three replications. As leafy vegetable, Weedy Amaranthus has remarkable protein, dietary fiber, carbohydrates, Ca, K, Mg, P, S, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Na, Mo, B, chlorophylls, β-cyanins, β-xanthins, betalains, β-carotene, vitamin C, TPC, TFC, and TAC (DPPH and ABTS+) compared to any cultivated species. The A. viridis genotype WAV7 and A. spinosus genotype WAS13 had the highest nutrients, pigments, vitamins, phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant. Hence, these two weedy accessions could be used as an antioxidant profile enriched cultivar with high nutritional and antioxidant activity. Pigments, β-carotene, vitamin C, phenolics, and flavonoids had strong antioxidant activity and played a vital role in the antioxidant activity of weedy Amaranthus genotypes. Weedy species are an excellent source of phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidants that have many pharmacological and medicinal effects of their traditional applications and detoxify ROS and offered huge prospects for feeding the antioxidant-deficient community to cope with the hidden hunger and attaining nutritional and antioxidant sufficiency.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of the Crude Extracts of Moringa oleifera from Kenya and Their Correlations with Flavonoids

Abstract: Moringa oleifera Lam. (M. oleifera) is commonly distributed and utilized in tropical and sub-tropical areas. There has been a large number of reports on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of its leaves, but only a few about its seeds and roots. Hence, in this work we aimed to systematically compare the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethanol crude extracts of leaves, seeds, and roots of M. oleifera from Kenya, and further correlate the differential activities with the chemical constituents from these three parts. The antioxidant activities were measured by using three different assays (DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and FRAP (Ferric-Reducing Antioxidant Power), respectively). Results showed that the leaf extracts displayed the highest DPPH radical scavenging and FRAP total reducing power activities with IC50 values of 1.02 ± 0.13 mg/mL and 0.99 ± 0.06 mM Fe2+/g, respectively; the leaf and root extracts exhibited potential ABTS radical scavenging activities with the IC50 values of 1.36 ± 0.02 and 1.24 ± 0.03 mg/mL. Meanwhile, the leaf and seed extracts (11.1–100 µg/mL) also exerted obvious anti-inflammatory activities, as indicated by the inhibition of NO production. To further reveal correlations between these differential activities with the chemical constituents in the three organs, the total flavonoids content (TFC) of the three different extracts were evaluated, and the TFC of leaves, seeds and roots were found to be 192.36 ± 2.96, 5.89 ± 0.65 and 106.79 ± 2.12 mg rutin equivalent (RE)/g, respectively. These findings indicated the important impacts of the total flavonoid contents on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Additionally, we further determined the phytochemical profiles of M. oleifera by HPLC-UV/ESI-MS/MS, and identified most of the chemical constituents of leaves as flavonoids. In summary, the leaves of M. oleifera are a better potential natural source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, and very promising for development into the health promoting dietary supplements.

LC-ESI-QTOF/MS Characterization of Phenolic Compounds from Medicinal Plants (Hops and Juniper Berries) and Their Antioxidant Activity.

Abstract: Hops (Humulus lupulus L.) and juniper berries (Juniperus communis L.) are two important medicinal plants widely used in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries due to their strong antioxidant capacity, which is attributed to the presence of polyphenols. The present study is conducted to comprehensively characterize polyphenols from hops and juniper berries using liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray-ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF/MS) to assess their antioxidant capacity. For polyphenol estimation, total phenolic content, flavonoids and tannins were measured, while for antioxidant capacity, three different antioxidant assays including the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) antioxidant assay, the 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical cation decolorization assay and the ferric reducing-antioxidant power (FRAP) assay were used. Hops presented the higher phenolic content (23.11 ± 0.03 mg/g dw) which corresponded to its strong antioxidant activity as compared to the juniper berries. Using LC-ESI-QTOF/MS, a total of 148 phenolic compounds were tentatively identified in juniper and hops, among which phenolic acids (including hydroxybenzoic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids and hydroxyphenylpropanoic acids) and flavonoids (mainly anthocyanins, flavones, flavonols, and isoflavonoids) were the main polyphenols, which may contribute to their antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, the HPLC quantitative analysis showed that both samples had a high concentration of phenolic acids and flavonoids. In the HPLC quantification, the predominant phenolic acids in hops and juniper berries were chlorogenic acid (16.48 ± 0.03 mg/g dw) and protocatechuic acid (11.46 ± 0.03 mg/g dw), respectively. The obtained results highlight the importance of hops and juniper berries as a rich source of functional ingredients in different food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.

Ziziphora clinopodioides Lam leaves aqueous extract mediated synthesis of zinc nanoparticles and their antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and cutaneous wound healing properties under in vitro and in vivo conditions

Abstract: LamZiziphora clinopodioides Biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles using plant medicine is under exploration is due to wide biomedica applications and research interest in nanotechnology, the recent study was assessing green synthesis of zinc nanoparticle using ), the use of plant material Ziziphoraleaves extract (ZnNPs@ not only makes the process eco-friendly but also the abundance makes it more economical. Also, in this study, Vis. and- were characterized using different techniques including UVZiziphora were synthesized in aqueous medium using the plant extract as stabilizing and reducing agents. The synthesized ZnNPs@Ziziphora conditions. ZnNPs@in vivo and in vitro under Ziziphorawe investigated the therapeutical properties of ZnNPs@ FT-IR spectroscopy, . SEM images exhibited a uniform spherical morphology in size of 32.34 Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA)ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (EDS), and-X Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium part of this study, these nanoparticles indicated excellent antibacterial properties against Gram-negative bacteria (in vitronm for the biosynthesized nanoparticles. In the biological , andCandida krusei, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata), antifungal potentials against Bacillus subtilis, andStaphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniaO157:H7) and Gram-positive bacteria ( leaves aqueous extract can be used to yield zinc nanoparticles with a significant amount of antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and cutaneous wound healing properties without any cytotoxicity.Z. clinopodioides ointment ameliorated the cutaneous wounds with increasing the levels of wound contracture, vessel, hydroxyl proline, hexosamine, hexuronic acid, fibrocyte, and fibrocytes/fibroblast rate and decreeing the wound area, total cells, and lymphocyte compared to other groups in rats. The results of UV, FT-IR, XRD, FE-SEM, EDS, and TGA confirm that the Ziziphora part of our experiment, ZnNPs@in vivo, non-cytotoxicity effect against human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and antioxidant activity against DPPH. In the biological Candida guilliermondii

LC-ESI-QTOF/MS Characterisation of Phenolic Acids and Flavonoids in Polyphenol-Rich Fruits and Vegetables and Their Potential Antioxidant Activities

Abstract: Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds found largely in fruits and vegetables. The antioxidant properties of these polyphenols including total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), tannin content, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH), 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging abilities and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were measured among sixteen (16) plant foods (mango, blueberry, strawberry, black carrot, raspberry, dark grapes, garlic, ginger, onion, cherry, plum, apple, papaya, peach, pear and apricot) by modifying, standardising and translating existing antioxidant methods using a 96-well plate reader. Eighteen targeted phenolic acids and flavonoids were characterised and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography-photometric diode array (HPLC-PDA) and verified by modifying an existing method of liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray-ionisation triple quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF/MS). While most of these compounds were accurately detected by the HPLC-PDA at a low concentration, a few polyphenols in low concentrations could be only be characterised using the LC-ESI-QTOF/MS method. Our results showed that mango possessed the highest overall antioxidant activity, phenolic acid and flavonoid content among the selected fruits. Factor analysis (FA) and Pearson's correlation tests showed high correlations among ABTS, DPPH, FRAP and phenolic acids, implying the comparable capabilities of scavenging the DPPH/ABTS free radicals and reducing ferric ions from the antioxidant compounds in the samples. Phenolic acids contributed significantly to the antioxidant activities, and flavonoids contributed more to tannin content based on the correlations. Overall, methods modified and standardized in this study can provide better understanding of high throughput technologies and increase the reliability of antioxidant data of different plant foods.

Effects of ecological factors on the antioxidant potential and total phenol content of Scrophularia striata Boiss.

Abstract: Scrophularia striata, commonly known as figwort, is one of the most important medicinal plants that mainly grows in cold regions of the Zagros Mountains (West of Iran). Although the chemical composition of this plant species has not yet been explored, people living in Ilam province (W Iran) have used it for many years to treat different illnesses. The present study aims to analyze the effect of some ecological factors on the antioxidant potential and the amount of phenol present in this plant species, using a random factorial design with two factors (elevation and region) and three replicates. The fruits of the plant were gathered from three different elevations. They were collected from three regions of the Ilam province (Badreh, Dareshahr, and Dehloran) in June 2016, when the fruits appear. Moreover, to analyze different soil chemical and physical features, soil samples were gathered from a depth of 0.5 m under the shrubs. The antioxidant action of the methanol extract from the plant samples and the total amount of phenol compounds were measured using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the Folin-Ciocalteu method, respectively. The results showed that the effects of site and elevation, and the interaction between these factors, on the antioxidant potential and total phenol amount were significant with a probability of error of 1%. The maximum extract efficiency (19.37 ± 3.07%), antioxidant potential (126.5656 ± 0.96 µg/mL), and total amount of phenol (55.7689 ± 3.17 µg/mL) were obtained from Dareshahr at an elevation of 600 m above mean sea level. The minimum amount of total phenol (24.6544 ± 3.21 µg/ml) was recorded at the lowest elevation of Badreh, at which phosphorus, potassium, organic carbon, organic material, nitrogen, acidity, lime, and silt were present at the lowest amount. However, the antioxidant activity and total amount of phenol had a strong direct correlation in the two districts of Dareshahr and Badreh, but were reversely and strongly correlated in Dehloran. Therefore, it can be stated that Scrophularia striata has the potential for antioxidant activity, however, the complexity of the effect of ecological factors on one hand, and the emergence of different chemical processes in the plant under such effects on the other hand, has led to the synthesis of different compounds with antioxidant potential in the plant in different regions.

Protein, dietary fiber, minerals, antioxidant pigments and phytochemicals, and antioxidant activity in selected red morph Amaranthus leafy vegetable.

Abstract: Amaranth has two morphological types (morphs), one is red and another is green morph. Red morph amaranth is a marvelous source of nutrients, antioxidant pigments, minerals, and phytochemicals compared to green morph amaranth. For this purpose, we selected 25 red morph genotypes to evaluate in terms of proximate, minerals, antioxidant pigments and phytochemicals and antioxidant activity in RCBD design in three replicates. The leaves of red morph amaranth are an excellent source of dietary fiber, carbohydrates, moisture, and protein. We found remarkable potassium, calcium, magnesium (24.96, 10.13, 30.01 mg g-1), iron, manganese, copper, zinc (1089.19, 243.59, 25.77, 986.61 μg g-1), chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b (31.79, 16.05 mg 100 g-1), β-cyanins, total flavonoids (102.10 RE μg g-1 DW), β-xanthins, betalains (33.30, 33.09, 66.40 μg 100 g-1), carotenoids, total phenolics (172.23 GAE μg g-1 DW), β-carotene (1225.94, 1043.18 μg g-1), vitamin C (955.19 μg g-1), and antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS+) (19.97 and 39.09 TEAC μg g-1 DW) in the red morph amaranth leaves. We can select the genotype RA5, RA8, RA18, RA22, and RA25 as antioxidant-enriched red morph amaranth. It revealed that amaranth β-cyanins, phenolics, betalains, flavonoids, β-xanthins, carotenoids, vitamin C, and β-carotene had strong antioxidant activity. These phytochemicals contributed significantly in the antioxidant potentials of red morphs amaranth. Red morph amaranth could be a potential source of nutrients, antioxidant pigments, minerals, and phytochemicals as these compounds scavenged ROS and served as potential antioxidants in our daily diet to attaining nutritional and antioxidant sufficiency.

Alpha-Amylase and Alpha-Glucosidase Enzyme Inhibition and Antioxidant Potential of 3-Oxolupenal and Katononic Acid Isolated from Nuxia oppositifolia

Abstract: Nuxia oppositifolia is traditionally used in diabetes treatment in many Arabian countries; however, scientific evidence is lacking. Hence, the present study explored the antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of the plant extracts and their purified compounds. The methanolic crude extract of N. oppositifolia was partitioned using a two-solvent system. The n-hexane fraction was purified by silica gel column chromatography to yield several compounds including katononic acid and 3-oxolupenal. Antidiabetic activities were assessed by α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition. Antioxidant capacities were examined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging assays. Further, the interaction between enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) and ligands (3-oxolupenal and katononic acid) was followed by fluorescence quenching and molecular docking studies. 3-oxolupenal and katononic acid showed IC50 values of 46.2 μg/mL (101.6 µM) and 52.4 μg/mL (119.3 µM), respectively against the amylase inhibition. 3-oxolupenal (62.3 µg/mL or 141.9 μM) exhibited more potent inhibition against α-glucosidases compared to katononic acid (88.6 µg/mL or 194.8 μM). In terms of antioxidant activity, the relatively polar crude extract and n-butanol fraction showed the greatest DPPH and ABTS scavenging activity. However, the antioxidant activities of the purified compounds were in the low to moderate range. Molecular docking studies confirmed that 3-oxolupenal and katononic acid interacted strongly with the active site residues of both α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Fluorescence quenching results also suggest that 3-oxolupenal and katononic acid have a good affinity towards both α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. This study provides preliminary data for the plant’s use in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Nigella sativa Oil in Human Pre-Adipocytes

Abstract: The oil obtained from the seeds of Nigella sativa L. (N. sativa), also known as black cumin, is frequently used in the Mediterranean area for its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer activities. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the oil extracted from seeds of a N. sativa cultivar produced in the Marche region of Italy, and to determine if the thymoquinone content, antioxidant properties, and biological activity would decay during storage. Cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory properties of N. sativa oil were tested in an in vitro model of low-grade inflammation in Simpson⁻Golabi⁻Behmel syndrome human pre-adipocytes. The fresh extracted oil (FEO) contained 33% more thymoquinone than stored extracted oil (SEO), demonstrating that storage affects its overall quality. In addition, the thymoquinone content in the N. sativa oil from the Marche region cultivar was higher compared with other N. sativa oils produced in the Middle East and in other Mediterranean regions. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., Interleukin (IL)-1alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6) were differently modulated by fresh and stored extracts from N. sativa oils: FEO, containing more thymoquinone reduced IL-6 levels significantly, while SEO inhibited IL-1beta and had a higher antioxidant activity. Total antioxidant activity, reported as µM of Trolox, was 11.273 ± 0.935 and 6.103 ± 0.446 for SEO and FEO (p = 1.255 × 10-7), respectively, while mean values of 9.895 ± 0.817 (SEO) and 4.727 ± 0.324 (FEO) were obtained with the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) assay (p = 2.891 × 10-14). In conclusion, the oil capacity to counteract proinflammatory cytokine production does not strictly depend on the thymoquinone content, but also on other antioxidant components of the oil.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Flavanones from Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (licorice) Leaf Phytocomplexes: Identification of Licoflavanone as a Modulator of NF-kB/MAPK Pathway

Abstract: Inflammation represents an adaptive response generated by injuries or harmful stimuli. Natural remedies represent an interesting alternative to traditional therapies, involving several biochemical pathways. Besides, the valorization of agrochemical wastes nowadays seems to be a feasible way to reduce the health spending and improve the accessibility at bioactive natural compounds. In this context, the chemical composition of three Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (licorice) leaf extracts, obtained through maceration or ultrasound-assisted method (fresh and dried leaves) was investigated. A guided fractionation obtained three main components: pinocembrin, glabranin and licoflavanone. All the extracts showed similar antioxidant properties, evaluated by 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) or 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) Diammonium Salt (ABTS) assay, while, among the isolated compounds, licoflavanone exhibited the best antioxidant activity. The anti-inflammatory activity of the extracts and the purified compounds was investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophages. Extract C and licoflavanone showed a good anti-inflammatory activity without affecting cell viability, as they decreased nitrite levels even when used at 12.5 μg/mL (p < 0.005) and 50 μM concentration (p < 0.001), respectively. Interestingly, licoflavanone markedly decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines and cyclooxygenase 2/inducible nitric oxide synthase (COX-2/iNOS) expression levels (p < 0.001). A modulation of nuclear factor kappa B/mitogen-activated protein kinases (NF-kB/MAPK) pathway underlay such behavior, highlighting the potential of this natural compound as a new scaffold in anti-inflammatory drug research.

Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antidiabetic and Antiobesity Potential of Selected Traditional Medicinal Plants.

Abstract: This study evaluated potential antidiabetic and antiobesity properties in vitro of selected medicinal plants. The hot water (WE) and ethanol extracts (EE) of sweet gale (Myrica gale L.), roseroot (Rhodiola rosea L.), sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosa L.), stinging nettles (Utrica dioica L.) and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale L.) were tested for total antioxidant capacity using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and DPPH• scavenging capacity assays, followed by α-amylase, α-glucosidase and formation of advanced glycation end products (AGE) inhibition assays in vitro. Myrica gale EE had the highest total phenolic content (12.4 mmol GAE/L), FRAP value (17.4 mmol TE/L) and DPPH• scavenging activity (IC50 = 3.28 mg/L). Similarly, Myrica gale also exhibited significantly lower IC50 values for the percentage inhibition of α-amylase (IC50 = 62.65 mg/L) and α-glucosidase (IC50 = 27.20 mg/L) compared to acarbose (IC50 = 91.71 mg/L; IC50 = 89.50 mg/L, respectively) (p ≤ 0.05). The 3T3-L1 preadipocyte study also revealed that Myrica gale EE (54.8%) and stinging nettles (62.2% EE; 63.2% WE) significantly inhibited the adipogenesis in adipocytes in vitro (p ≤ 0.05). Polyphenols present in these medicinal plants have the potential to use in managing type 2 diabetes and obesity.