Beneficial Effects of Curcumin in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review of Recent Literature and Underlying Mechanisms.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrinological disorder that affects women of reproductive age and can lead to infertility. The prevalence of PCOS ranges from 5-21% depending on the diagnostic criteria and study population. Clinical manifestations include irregular or absent menstrual periods, obesity, and signs of hyperandrogenism. PCOS can also lead to long-term consequences such as metabolic syndrome, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, endometrial cancer, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension. Metformin and oral contraceptive pills are the most commonly used drugs for PCOS management, but their efficiency is limited and they have some considerable side effects. Researchers are looking into alternative therapeutic options such as phytochemicals. Curcumin (CUR) is a polyphenolic compound found in the rhizome of Curcuma longa and has shown promising effects for females with PCOS. CUR exerts its anti-PCOS effects through different mechanisms such as reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, balancing hormone levels, and controlling the blood sugar and lipid profile. It can also reduce insulin resistance, regulate menstruation, and improve ovarian morphology and function. Despite its beneficial effects, CUR faces several challenges and limitations in clinical use, such as low bioavailability, instability, and rapid elimination. Therefore, researchers are investigating the potential of CUR nanoformulations and new drug delivery systems to overcome these barriers. With growing evidence regarding the potential role of CUR in PCOS treatment, we decided to provide an updated summary of the recent literature from clinical and preclinical studies on this topic.

Bioassay Guided Isolation and α-Glucosidase Inhibition Studies of a New Sesquiterpene from Ochradenus aucheri.

AIMS: The aim of the current study was to explore the anti-diabetic potential of Ochradenus aucheri Boiss (O. aucheri). METHOD: All the fractions of O. aucheri were evaluated for α-glucosidase inhibition, followed by bioassay-guided isolation which resulted in a new sesquiterpenoid, as a potential α-glucosidase inhibitor. RESULTS: The preliminary screening showed that all the fractions including n-hexane (38.0 ± 1.38 µg/mL), dichloromethane (92.6 ± 6.18 µg/mL), ethyl acetate (29.2 ± 0.51 µg/mL) and n-butanol (361.8 ± 5.80 µg/mL) displayed significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. The activity-directed fractionation and purification of ethyl acetate fraction led to the isolation of one new sesquiterpenoid, Jardenol (1), and two known metabolites: ß-stitosterol-3-O-ß-D-glucopyranoside (2) and ß-Sitosterol (3). To the best of our knowledge, these metabolites have not been isolated from this plant previously. The structure of the new metabolite 1 was confirmed through 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, and MS analysis. Compound 1 showed significant α-glucosidase inhibition with an IC50 value of 138.2 ± 2.43 µg/mL as compared to positive control acarbose (IC50 = 942.0 ± 0.60 µg/mL). Additionally, in-silico docking was employed to predict the binding mechanism of compound 1 in the active site of the target enzyme, α-glucosidase. The docking results suggested that the compound forms strong interactions at the catalytic site of α-glucosidase. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study indicated that the newly purified secondary metabolite, Jardenol, can be a promising anti-diabetic compound.

GC-MS Profiling, Pharmacological Predictions, Molecular Docking, and ADME Studies of Different Parts of Thymus Linearis against Multiple Target Proteins in Wound Healing.

Thymus linearis from the Himalayan woodlands of Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan, is a phytomedicine that has not been well-studied. Traditionally, it is recognized for its potential in treating conditions such as dermatitis, psoriasis, weight loss, and discomfort. The study investigates the wound-healing properties of methanolic extracts from the plant's stems, leaves, and roots. GC-MS disclosed cadaverine, dihydroxy-3,3-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-N-isopropylbutyramide, phthalic acid-di(2-propylpentyl)ester, and benzo[h]quinolone-2,4-dimethyl in stem along with betamethasone velerate, 17-pentatriacontene, 1,1-cyclobutanedicarboxmide, heptadecane-9-hexyl, cyclohexanol-2-methylene-3(1-methylethenyl) and pentacyclo[12.3.0.0(1,13).0(2,10).0(5,9)]hepatodecane-6-ol-15-one in leaf extracts and 2-myristynonyl pantetheine, 7,8-epoxylanostan-11-ol-3-acetoxy, heneicosane (1-(1-ethyl propyl)), 2-piperidinone-N-[4-bromobutyl] and 1-monolinoleoylglycerol trimethyl silyl ether in the root extract. The antioxidant activity was assessed using several assays including DPPH, bound iron %, ABTS, total flavonoid content, and total phenolic content. The methanolic stem extract (MSE) showed the highest antioxidant capacity compared to the leaf and root extracts.  The stem extract demonstrated the highest wound-healing potential, followed by leaves and roots in albino mice. The findings were supported by computational analysis, which revealed that the binding interactions of phytochemicals from stem have more affinity than leaf and root with specific receptor sites. The in-silico analysis ascertains that dihydroxy-3,3-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-N-isopropylbutyramide from MSE is the most effective wound-healing agent. Moreover, ADME predictions demonstrated the drug-like properties of the hit compounds.

Recent developments in intranasal drug delivery of nanomedicines for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders.

Neuropsychiatric disorders are multifaceted syndromes with confounding neurological explanations. It includes anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, Tourette's syndrome, delirium, dementia, vascular cognitive impairment, and apathy etc. Globally, these disorders occupy 15% of all diseases. As per the WHO, India has one of the largest populations of people with mental illnesses worldwide. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) makes it extremely difficult to distribute medicine to target cells in the brain tissues. However, it is possible through novel advancements in nanotechnology, molecular biology, and neurosciences. One such cutting-edge delivery method, nose-to-brain (N2B) drug delivery using nanoformulation (NF), overcomes traditional drug formulation and delivery limitations. Later offers more controlled drug release, better bioavailability, improved patient acceptance, reduced biological interference, and circumvention of BBB. When medicines are delivered via the intranasal (IN) route, they enter the nasal cavity and go to the brain via connections between the olfactory and trigeminal nerves and the nasal mucosa in N2B. Delivering phytochemical, bioactive and synthetic NF is being investigated with the N2B delivery strategy. The mucociliary clearance, enzyme degradation, and drug translocations by efflux mechanisms are significant issues associated with N2B delivery. This review article discusses the types of neuropsychiatric disorders and their treatment with plant-derived as well as synthetic drug-loaded NFs administered via the IN-delivery system. In conclusion, this review provided a comprehensive and critical overview of the IN applicability of plant-derived NFs for psychiatric disorders.

Reutilization of Fruit Waste as Potential Prebiotic for Probiotic or Food-grade Microorganisms in Food Applications: A Review.

Food waste has been a global issue with 2.5 billion tons generated globally in 2021. Approximately 46% of the food waste is contributed by fruit and vegetable waste. Due to improper waste handling, these fruit by-products have a negative impact on the environment through soil and water pollution, the greenhouse effect, global warming, and eutrophication. However, research has shown the potential to reuse fruit waste in various applications for sustainability owing to their high source of valuable components and potential health benefits. In recent years, researchers have also explored the potential of reutilizing fruit waste as a prebiotic. Hence, literatures from the past 10 years has been critically analyzed and presented in this review. This review focused on the potential of fruit waste as a prebiotic for probiotic and gastrointestinal microorganisms and its food applications. The nutritional composition and bioactive compounds of the fruit wastes had been introduced to reflect their potential as prebiotics. Moreover, the increase in bioactive compounds and bioactivities in probiotics with the presence of fruit wastes has been reviewed. The impact of fruit by-products on the growth of the probiotic and its survivability in food matrices as compared to established prebiotic and the absence of prebiotics have also been extensively discussed in this review. This review also highlighted some of the factors that might contribute to the negative effect of fruit waste on probiotics. The safety concerns and future prospects of reutilizing fruit wastes for food applications have been emphasized. The review article is beneficial for researchers exploring fruit wastes as prebiotics and industrialists who are interested in incorporating fruit wastes as an added-value ingredient for food applications.

In-vitro Neuro-2a cytotoxicity analysis and molecular docking investigation on potential anti-amyloid agents from Adiantum lunulatum.

In neurodegenerative diseases, amyloid formation by some proteins cause neuronal damage and loss. To prevent this neuronal damage and loss certain pharmaceuticals are available. Many of these pharmaceuticals act on the neurodegenerative disease symptoms but not on the root cause. This study helps to detect more effective agents which directly act on the root cause and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. To identify new anti-amyloid agents, the folk medicinally important plant Adiantum lunulatum was collected, authenticated, dried, extracted with ethanol and analyzed by GC-MS method. The screening of the identified phytochemicals was done using the webservers swissADME and ProTox-II. In-vitro MTT assay using Neuro-2a cell lines was carried out to determine the cytotoxicity of the extract. The interactions of these phytochemicals with the amyloid forming peptides and proteins were predicted using the molecular docking tools such as AutoDock Vina and BIOVIA discovery studio visualizer 2020. Through GC-MS analysis, 18 different volatile phytochemicals were identified from the ethanol extract. From this, 7 phytochemicals were selected based on the computational non-toxicity prediction. In-vitro cytotoxicity analysis of the ethanol extract using Neuro-2a cell lines detected the IC50 value of 0.09 mg/ml. Of these, the phytochemical P1 (trans, trans-9, 12-Octadecadienoic acid, propyl ester) interacts with tau, and huntingtin proteins, P2 (2-Pentadecanone, 6, 10, 14-trimethyl-) interacts with prion protein. The phytochemicals P1, P3 (Ethyl oleate), P4 (Octadecanoic acid, ethyl ester), and P5 (Phytol) interact with acetylcholinesterase. P2, P4, P5 and P6 (Henicosanal), interact with BACE-1. The phytochemical P3 interacts with γ- Secretase. The interaction of P2 and P5 with BACE-1 and P3 with γ- Secretase show better inhibition in inhibitory constant (K i ) analysis. These phytochemicals have been predicted to show significant potential against the formation or breakdown of peptide/protein amyloids, and further in-vitro studies are necessary to develop them into anti-amyloid agents.

Antiproliferative Effects of Methanolic Fruit Extract of Solanum xenthocarpum (L.) on Human Breast Cancer Cells.

Solanum xanthocarpum, a perennial herb native to India, contains steroidal glycoalkaloids with notable anticancer properties. This study investigated the antioxidant and antiproliferative effects of methanolic fruit extract of S. xanthocarpum on human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231). Phytochemical screening and LC-HRMS analysis confirmed presence of various primary and secondary metabolites. Antioxidant activity was assessed through DPPH, ABTS radical scavenging, reducing power, and phosphomolybdate assays. The extract demonstrated significant antioxidant potential with EC50 values of 60.10 ± 0.88 µg/mL (DPPH) and 392.29 ± 3.93 µg/mL (ABTS). Cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 cells was evaluated via morphological analysis, MTT assays, and IC50 determination (24.19 ± 0.56 µg/L). Apoptosis was confirmed using dual staining techniques (AO/EB, Hoechst 33342/PI, DAPI), revealing condensed nuclei, apoptotic bodies, and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, as indicated by Rhodamine staining. Additionally, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were observed using H2-DCF-DA staining. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extract were 127.78 ± 3.547 mg GAE/g and 98.06 ± 4.289 mg QE/g, respectively. These findings suggest that the methanolic fruit extract of S. xanthocarpum possesses strong antioxidant and anticancer activities, indicating its potential role in cancer treatment. Further studies are warranted to explore its bioactive compounds for developing novel anticancer therapies.

Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Euphorbia paralias (L.): a bioprospecting study with phytoconstituents analysis.

Objectives: The phytochemicals in the aerial parts of Euphorbia paralias (also known as Sea Spurge) and their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities were investigated. Methods: The methanolic extract was characterized using GC-MS and HPLC techniques. The anti-inflammatory feature was estimated through a Human Red Blood Cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization technique, while the antimicrobial feature was evaluated by the disc diffusion agar technique, minimum bactericidal concentration, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) via micro-broth dilution method. Results: The GC/MS results demonstrated the existence of various phytochemicals, such as n-hexadecenoic acid, cis-11-eicosenoic acid, and methyl stearate, recognized for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial features. The similarity of the phytochemical composition with other Euphorbia species emphasizes the genus-wide similarity. The anti-inflammatory activity exhibited a noteworthy inhibitory effect comparable to the reference drug indomethacin. The extract's antimicrobial potential was tested against a range of microorganisms, demonstrating significant action against Gram-positive bacteria and Candida albicans. The quantification of total phenolics and flavonoids further supported the therapeutic potential of the extract. Conclusion: The methanolic extract from E. paralias emerges as a successful natural source of important active constituents with potential applications as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents. This research provides a first step to valorize Euphorbia paralias insights as a source of worthwhile phytochemicals that have potential applications in the pharmaceutical industry.

Rooted in therapeutics: comprehensive analyses of Cannabis sativa root extracts reveals potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and bactericidal properties.

Following the legalization of recreational Cannabis in Canada in 2018, the associated waste, including Cannabis roots, has significantly increased. Cannabis roots, comprising 30%-50% of the total plant, are often discarded despite their historical use in Ayurvedic medicine for treating inflammatory and infectious disorders. This study evaluates the phytochemical and therapeutic properties of Cannabis root extracts from a high tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, low cannabidiolic acid cultivar (variety Alien Gorilla Glue). We performed ultra high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) to identify the chemical components of the Cannabis roots. Extracts using water, ethanol and acid-base solvents were tested for antioxidant activity through free radical scavenging, metal chelation, and lipoperoxidation inhibition assays. Mitochondrial membrane protection was assessed using flow cytometry with the MitoPerOx probe in THP-1 monocytic leukemia cells. Anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated by measuring interleukin-6 levels in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated THP-1 cells. Bactericidal/fungicidal efficacy against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans was determined using the p-iodonitrophenyltetrazolium assay. Additionally, we investigated the anticholinesterase activity of Cannabis root extracts, given the potential role of plant alkaloids in inhibiting cholinesterase, an enzyme targeted in Alzheimer's disease treatments. UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis suggested the presence of several phenolic compounds, cannabinoids, terpenoids, amino acids, and nitrogen-containing compounds. Our results indicated significant antioxidant, bactericidal, and anticholinesterase properties of Cannabis root extracts from both soil and hydroponic cultivation. Extracts showed strong antioxidant activity across multiple assays, protected mitochondrial membrane in THP-1 cells, and exhibited anti-inflammatory and bactericidal/fungicidal efficacy. Notably, soil-cultivated roots displayed superior anti-inflammatory effects. These findings demonstrate the remarkable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial activities of Cannabis roots, supporting their traditional uses and challenging their perception as mere waste. This study highlights the therapeutic potential of Cannabis roots extracts and suggests avenues for further research and application.

Assessment of Vicia faba L. Peels: Phytochemical Characterization and Evaluation of Cytotoxic and Antimicrobial Potentials.

The current study intends to reach the optimal use of plant wastes and explore their biological activities. It evaluated the bioactivities and phytoconstituents of 70% methanol extract of Vicia faba L. peels. The results revealed that the extract possessed very potent cytotoxicity against ovarian cancer cell line (SKOV-3) (IC50 =0.01 µg/mL) which exceeds doxorubicin (IC50 =0.95 µg/ml), a reference anticancer agent, potent cytotoxicity against prostate cancer cell line (PC-3) (IC50 =13.60 µg/ml), and moderate cytotoxicity against liver cancer cell line (HepG2) (IC50 = 40.9 µg/ml). Furthermore, the extract exhibited a potent antimicrobial effect on the tested gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecalis& Micrococcus luteus) with inhibition zone (IZ) range (14.0 - 23.0 mm), gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) (IZ= 14.0 mm), and pathogenic fungal yeast (Candida albicans) (IZ= 19.0 mm). Moreover, 46 phytoconstituents were tentatively identified using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) hyphenated with quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS) in positive ionization mode, 21 phytoconstituents were detected in Vicia faba peel for the first time. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to quantify phenolic compounds, the major compounds were chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, catechin, and vanillin. In conclusion, plant wastes are a rich source of phytoconstituents that exhibit biological efficacy.

Seagrass Meadows: Prospective Candidates for Bioactive Molecules.

Seagrass meadows consist of angiosperms that thrive fully submerged in marine environments and form distinct ecosystems. They provide essential support for many organisms, acting as nursery grounds for species of economic importance. Beyond their ecological roles, seagrasses and their associated microbiomes are rich sources of bioactive compounds with the potential to address numerous human healthcare challenges. Seagrasses produce bioactive molecules responding to physical, chemical, and biological environmental changes. These activities can treat microbe-borne diseases, skin diseases, diabetes, muscle pain, helminthic diseases, and wounds. Seagrasses also offer potential secondary metabolites that can be used for societal benefits. Despite numerous results on their presence and bioactive derivatives, only a few studies have explored the functional and therapeutic properties of secondary metabolites from seagrass. With the increasing spread of epidemics and pandemics worldwide, the demand for alternative drug sources and drug discovery has become an indispensable area of research. Seagrasses present a reliable natural source, making this an opportune moment for further exploration of their pharmacological activities with minimal side effects. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the biochemical, phytochemical, and biomedical applications of seagrasses globally over the last two decades, highlighting the prospective areas of future research for identifying biomedical applications.

Influence of Harvesting Stage on Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Antidiabetic Activity of Immature Ceratonia siliqua L. Pulp from Béni Mellal-Khénifra Region, Morocco: In Silico, In Vitro, and In Vivo Approaches.

Ceratonia siliqua L. is a medicinal plant that has long been used in traditional Moroccan medicine to treat many diseases. This study aimed to assess the impact of the stages of the immature phase of carob pulp (M1, M2, M3, M4, and M5) on phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and antidiabetic activity of Ceratonia siliqua L. The identification of the phenolic profile by HPLC-UV/MS-MS and the study of the antidiabetic effect by in silico, in vitro, and in vivo studies were carried out for extracts with high contents of phenolic compounds from immature wild carob pulp from the communes of Timoulit (TM), Bin Elouidane (AW), and Ouaouizerth (TG) in the province of Azilal in the Béni Mellal-Khénifra region. The results revealed a gradual increase in total sugar content over the pulp's ripening period, reaching a value of 2134 ± 56.23 mg GE/100 g fresh weight (FW) for TG. The three locations showed peak values for total polyphenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and total condensed tannin (TCT) at the M2 stage. AW had the highest concentrations of TPC (3819 ± 226.4 mg GAE/100 g FM), TFC (1034 ± 57.08 mg QE/100 g FM), and TCT (1472 ± 28.46 mg CE/100 g FM). The DPPH assay (7892 ± 296.1 mg TE/100 g FM) and the FRAP assay (278.2 ± 7.85 mg TE/100 g FM) both demonstrated that the TG zone is a highly potent antioxidant zone. In contrast, the AW site exhibited a markedly elevated value of 725.4 ± 103.6 mg TE/100 g FM in the ABTS assay. HPLC-UV-MS/MS analysis showed that the methanolic extracts of immature carob pulp (MEICP) from the three areas contained several different chemical compounds. The most prevalent were 3-O-p-coumaroyl-5-O-caffeoylquinic acid, quercetin 3-methyl ether, gallic acid, and galloylquinic acid. Immature carob pulp extract (ICPE) from AW showed the strongest in vitro inhibition of pancreatic α-amylase (IC50 = 0.405 µg/mL) and TG extracts were most potent against intestinal α-glucosidase (IC50 = 0.063 µg/mL). In vivo, AW, TG, and TM extracts significantly reduced postprandial glycemia in rats, with AW having the greatest effect. These results highlight the antidiabetic potential of ICPE. The 3-O-p-Coumaroyl-5-O-caffeoylquinic acid showed better affinity for α-amylase compared to acarbose and interacted significantly with several amino acid residues of the enzyme. Similarly, this molecule and 3,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid demonstrated a strong affinity for α-glucosidase, suggesting their potential as natural inhibitors of enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. Most of the compounds are not substrates of P-glycoprotein and exhibited high intestinal absorption. Furthermore, the majority of these compounds did not act as inhibitors or substrates of CYP450 enzymes, reinforcing their suitability for development as oral medications. These results underscore the potential of immature carob pulp as a promising antidiabetic agent.

Unveiling phytochemical diversity and safety profile of hot water extract from Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit.

BACKGROUND: Tetrapleura tetraptera, a widely used medicinal plant in West Africa, has been traditionally employed for various ailments. Despite its folkloric significance, scientific validation of its safety and potential neuroactive properties remains limited. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the acute and subchronic toxicity of Tetrapleura tetraptera hot water extract (HWETTF) in rats and to elucidate its phytochemical composition. METHODS: Acute oral toxicity was assessed in mice using the OECD guideline 423, while a 14-day repeat-dose toxicity study was conducted in rats. The phytochemical analysis included HPLC, FT-IR, and GC-MS. RESULTS: HWETTF exhibited no significant toxicity in acute or subchronic studies, even at high doses. Phytochemical analysis revealed a diverse array of compounds, including those with potential GABAergic and CNS depressant activities. CONCLUSION: Tetrapleura tetraptera demonstrated a favourable safety profile in rodents and possesses a rich phytochemical composition. Further research is warranted to explore its potential neuroactive properties and develop therapeutic applications.

Phytochemical Characterization and Synergistic Antibacterial Effects of Colebrookea Oppositifolia Essential Oil as Adjuvants to Modern Antibiotics in Combating Drug Resistance.

Background: The global threat of multi-drug-resistant bacteria has severely limited the options available for effective antibiotics. This study focuses on the antimicrobial activity and phytochemical characterization of C. oppositifolia extracts, aiming to identify novel plant-based therapeutic agents. Methods: C. oppositifolia specimens-leaves and inflorescence. Specimens were cleaned, sterilized, dried, and ground into a fine powder. Extracts were obtained using methanol and petroleum ether via a Soxhlet apparatus, followed by fractionation with chloroform, n-butanol, and ethyl acetate. Volatile oil was extracted through hydro distillation using a Clevenger apparatus. Phytochemical analysis was conducted to identify bioactive compounds. Biophysical techniques, including UV-visible spectrophotometry, TLC, HPLC, GC-MS, FTIR, and NMR, were employed for characterization. Antimicrobial activity was tested against S. aureus ATCC25922 and E. coli ATCC25922 using agar well and disc diffusion methods, and synergistic effects were assessed with erythromycin and amoxicillin. Results: Methanol extract exhibited bacteriostatic activity with inhibition zones of 13.0 ± 0.2 mm for both S. aureus and E. coli. Petroleum ether, chloroform, n-butanol, and ethyl acetate fractions showed varying inhibition zones. Erythromycin demonstrated bactericidal activity, which was enhanced synergistically when combined with methanol extract and volatile oil, increasing inhibition zones against S. aureus. Phytochemical analysis identified phenols, flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, and glycosides. FTIR analysis revealed functional groups such as amines, aldehydes, nitriles, alkenes, and sulfones. GC-MS identified 24 compounds, with α-pinene, caryophyllene, and carene as major components. NMR spectra indicated no complex formation between oils and antibiotics, suggesting the compounds act as synergists. Conclusion: The C. oppositifolia extracts possess significant antimicrobial activity and synergistic potential, particularly against S. aureus. The presence of various bioactive compounds suggests a promising role in developing new plant-based therapeutics.

The interaction effect of water deficit stress and seaweed extract on phytochemical characteristics and antioxidant activity of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.).

Introduction: With increasing drought stress due to climate change and water scarcity, the agricultural sector has sought innovative strategies to mitigate the detrimental effects on crop productivity. One approach that has received significant attention is the use of fertilizers and biostimulants as potential means of alleviating drought stress. Methods: In this study, five different irrigation levels including 100% (control), 80% (slight stress), 60% (mild stress), 40% (moderate stress), and 20% (severe stress) of field capacity (FC) and seaweed extract (SWE) at three concentrations (0, 5, and 10 g/L) were applied to the pots containing one-year-old licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) plants in a factorial completely randomized design experiment with three replications for eight weeks. Results and discussion: The glycyrrhizic acid content increased with water stress intensity without the application of SWE until severe (20% FC) water stress treatment. The application of 10 g/L SWE under 100% FC led to a significant increase in the glycyrrhizic acid value (32.5±0.889 mg/g DW) compared with non-SWE application (30.0±1.040 mg/g DW). The maximum glabridin content (0.270±0.010 mg/g DW) was obtained under irrigation of 20% field capacity with 10 g/L SWE application. In addition, the activity of the all studied enzymes such as APX (ascorbate peroxidase), CAT (catalase), POD (peroxidase), and SOD (superoxide dismutase) were boosted by increasing the water stress levels. The use of SWE further enhanced the increase of some of these metabolites and enzymes, which, in turn, helped the plant to tolerate stress conditions through the scavenging of more ROS (Reactive oxygen species), wherein for this purpose, the SWE 10 g/L was more effective than other concentration. The plants efficiently eliminated ROS driven from drought stress by both non-enzymatic and enzymatic systems.

Empirical use, phytochemical, and pharmacological effects in wound healing activities of compounds in Diospyros leaves: A review of traditional medicine for potential new plant-derived drugs.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Wound healing extracts' activity is increasingly being studied in the field of traditional medicine. Among medicinal plants, Diospyros is known to have healing effects on wounds, along with activities such as anti-biofilm, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and regulation of the immune system. However, the current use of the leaves could be more optimal, and the scientific basis needs to be improved. AIM OF THIS REVIEW: This review aimed to critically examine the literature on the traditional use and bioactive metabolites of several Diospyros species, demonstrating the significant potential in wound healing, antibacterial, anti-biofilm, regulatory effect on the immune system, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. The critical analysis was conducted to provide robust perspectives and recommendations for future studies on the use of Diospyros potential resources of wound healing material, including related activities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Exploratory studies on Diospyros species over the past 20 years were examined, with a focus on general information, practical use, secondary metabolite, and pharmacological activities related to wound healing. Data were meticulously collected from scientific databases including Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Taylor & Francis, Google Scholar, PubMed as well as various botanical and biodiversity sources. Furthermore, manual searches were conducted to ensure comprehensive coverage. Reference manager software was used to manage articles and remove duplicates, then the gathered data were summarized and verified, ensuring the thoroughness and validity of the review process. RESULTS: The results showed that Diospyros leaves have great potential to be harnessed as herbal medications, evidenced by both scientific findings and community uses. Various substances, including flavonoids, coumarins, tannins, terpenoids, steroids, lignans, quinones, and secoiridoids were identified. Chemical compound investigations in both in vivo and in vitro studies of Diospyros leaves reported wound healing activity, as well as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-biofilm, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. CONCLUSION: The review highlights the traditional uses and bioactive metabolites of Diospyros species in wound healing, identifying various beneficial compounds such as flavonoids and tannins. These compounds demonstrate various therapeutic effects, including antibacterial, anti-biofilm, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities. Diospyros leaf extracts have a favorable safety profile, but further studies, including in vivo investigations and clinical trials, are necessary to confirm their efficacy and safety for clinical applications. Diospyros leaf extracts have significant potential for the development of wound healing substances due to the wide range of bioactivities targeting various stages of wound healing.

Analysis of Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Capacity, Acute Toxicity, and Antinociceptive Properties of Aqueous Extract of Origanum majorana L.

Phytotherapy, the use of plant-derived compounds for medicinal purposes, is increasingly recognized as a vital component of modern therapeutics. This study investigates the aqueous extract of Origanum majorana L. (AEOM), evaluating its phytochemical composition, safety, antioxidant activity, and pharmacological effects. Analysis via LC-MS/MS identified a variety of phenolic compounds, with gallic acid, caffeic acid, and chlorogenic acid standing out for their pronounced bioactive properties. Quantitative analysis revealed that AEOM contains significant amounts of polyphenols (186.06 ± 0.1 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (72.3 ± 0.9 mg QE/g), and condensed tannins (4.49 ± 0.08 mg CE/g). The extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity, with an IC50 value of 2.23 ± 0.03 mg/mL in the DPPH assay, and demonstrated considerable reducing power (FRAP value of 1.9 ± 0.01 mg Fe²âº/g). Pharmacological evaluation showed that AEOM significantly reduced pain in an animal model, suggesting potential analgesic properties. Acute toxicity studies indicated no adverse effects on kidney and liver function or blood parameters at doses up to 800 mg/kg. The analgesic effect is likely mediated by flavonoids in the extract, which may inhibit pain pathways. These findings suggest that O. majorana has promising therapeutic applications, particularly as a natural analgesic agent.

Beneficial effects of resveratrol on diabetes mellitus and its complications: focus on mechanisms of action.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a significant global health issue, associated with various microvascular and macrovascular complications that significantly impair patients' quality of life as well as healthspan and lifespan. Despite the availability of several anti-diabetic medications with different mechanisms of action, there remains no definite curative treatment. Hence, discovering new efficient complementary therapies is essential. Natural products have received significant attention due to their advantages in various pathological conditions. Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol that possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and its efficacy has been previously investigated in several diseases, including DM. Herein, we aimed to provide a holistic view of the signaling pathways and mechanisms of action through which resveratrol exerts its effects against DM and its complications.

An Integrated Strategy for Chemical Profile Establishment of Premna Microphylla Turcz. leaves and Metabolites in Vivo.

BACKGROUND: Premna microphylla Turcz. (PMT) is a traditional food and medicinal plant, which has been used to treat cure hemostasis, rheumatism and dysentery. However, it still lacks a clear understanding about chemical profile of PMT and metabolites in vivo. OBJECTIVE: To establish a rapid and efficient analytical method for the identification of phytochemical in PMT and metabolites in vivo. METHODS: Firstly, the fingerprint of PMT was established by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with methodology validation. Then, the phytochemical composition in PMT leaves were identified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS). Finally, the prototype and correlated metabolites were detected after oral administration in mice to understand the absorption and metabolism of phytochemical in vivo. RESULTS: The result showed established HPLC method for fingerprints evaluation of PMT has good precision, repeatability and stability. Additionally, a total of 103 phytochemicals were identified in PMT, mainly including flavonoids and terpenoids. Then, 37 prototype components and 20 derived metabolites in vivo were detected. CONCLUSION: In this study, we constructed a fingerprint method which has good stability, precision and repeatability, and the fingerprint of PMT was established. Then the chemical profile of PMT in vitro and in vivo was performed. The result showed that flavonoids and terpenoids were the main phytochemicals in PMT, and methylation, sulfonation, dihydroxylation were the main metabolic pathway in vivo. HIGHLIGHTS: The present study provided the phytochemical basis for the subsequent study of pharmacological activity.

Identification of different extracts and phytoconstituents of Callistemon viminalis Cheel for their anti-anxiety effects based on pharmacognostic, toxicological, and pharmacological strategies.

Background: Psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety are global challenges, exacerbated by the limitations of synthetic medications, including addiction and toxic side effects. Methods: This study meticulously investigated the pharmacognostic, phytochemical, toxicological, and pharmacological properties of Callistemon viminalis Cheel. Toxicological assessments, including hemocompatibility assays, LD50 studies, FOB analysis, biochemical parameters, and structural integrity of vital organs, were conducted on aqueous, methanolic, chloroform, and petroleum ether extracts of leaves and stems. Phytochemical profiling via qualitative tests and GC-MS screened extracts for molecular docking against key receptors. Categorically screened extracts were evaluated for therapeutic potential against LPS-induced anxiety in mice. Results: Toxicological evaluations on experimental animals demonstrated the safety of various extracts, evidenced by no in vitro and in vivo toxicity. GC-MS identified numerous phytochemicals that passed "Lipinski's Rule of Five." These compounds were screened for molecular docking, revealing significant binding affinities with CB1, SERT, α2A-AR, and GABAß2 receptors, suggesting potential therapeutic effects against anxiety. The phytoconstituents with the highest docking scores, particularly in aqueous and methanolic extracts, were further validated for their therapeutic efficacy. Preliminary analysis based on the EPM test and serum cortisol levels confirmed these extracts' superior therapeutic effectiveness. Conclusion: In conclusion, aqueous and methanolic extracts of Callistemon viminalis Cheel's leaf and stem showed promising potential as therapeutic interventions for anxiety disorders.