Unraveling the effect of phenolic extract derived from olive mill solid wastes on agro-physiological and biochemical traits of pomegranate and its associated rhizospheric soil properties.

Agricultural waste management poses a significant challenge in circular economy strategies. Olive mill wastes (OMW) contain valuable biomolecules, especially phenolic compounds, with significant agricultural potential. Our study evaluate the effects of phenolic extract (PE) derived from olive mill solid wastes (OMSW) on pomegranate agro-physiological and biochemical responses, as well as soil-related attributes. Pomegranate plants were treated with PE at doses of 100 ppm and 200 ppm via foliar spray (L100 and L200) and soil application (S100 and S200). Results showed increased biomass with PE treatments, especially with soil application (S100 and S200). Proline and soluble sugar accumulation in leaves suggested plant adaptation to PE with low-level stress. Additionally, PE application reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) contents. Higher doses of PE (S200) significantly improved net photosynthesis (Pn), transpiration rate (E), water use efficiency (WUEi), and photosynthetic efficiency (fv/fm and PIabs). Furthermore, PE treatments enhanced levels of chlorophylls, carotenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. Soil application of PE also increased soil enzyme activities and microbial population. Our findings suggest the beneficial impact of PE application on pomegranate agro-physiological responses, laying the groundwork for further research across various plant species and soil types to introduce nutrient-enriched PE as an eco-friendly biostimulant.

The Influence of Copper and Zinc on Photosynthesis and Phenolic Levels in Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), Borage (Borago officinalis L.), Common Nettle (Urtica dioica L.) and Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.).

This work is aimed at relationships which govern zinc and copper uptake by four popular medicinal herbs: basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), borage (Borago officinalis L.), common nettle (Urtica dioica L.) and peppermint (Mentha piperita L.). They are often grown in soils with significant copper or zinc levels. Herbs were cultivated by a pot method in controlled conditions. Manganese, iron, copper and zinc concentrations were determined by High-Resolution Continuum Source Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. The efficiency of photosynthesis was estimated by measuring the chlorophyll content, water use efficiency, net photosynthesis, intercellular CO2, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate. Phenolic compounds were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. Analysis of variance showed that herbs grown in soil treated with copper exhibited a lower iron content in roots, while manganese behaved in the opposite way. The only exception was borage, where a decrease in the manganese content in roots was observed. Both copper and zinc supplementations increased the total content of phenolics, while the highest increases were observed for common nettle and basil. Peppermint and borage responded less to supplementation. In the majority of samples, zinc and copper did not significantly affect the photosynthesis. Herbal extracts from common nettle and basil had unique antioxidant properties and may be good free radical scavengers.

Tea-Derived Polyphenols Enhance Drought Resistance of Tea Plants (Camellia sinensis) by Alleviating Jasmonate-Isoleucine Pathway and Flavonoid Metabolism Flow.

Extreme drought weather has occurred frequently in recent years, resulting in serious yield loss in tea plantations. The study of drought in tea plantations is becoming more and more intensive, but there are fewer studies on drought-resistant measures applied in actual production. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effect of exogenous tea polyphenols on the drought resistance of tea plant by pouring 100 mg·L-1 of exogenous tea polyphenols into the root under drought. The exogenous tea polyphenols were able to promote the closure of stomata and reduce water loss from leaves under drought stress. Drought-induced malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation in tea leaves and roots was also significantly reduced by exogenous tea polyphenols. Combined transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses showed that exogenous tea polyphenols regulated the abnormal responses of photosynthetic and energy metabolism in leaves under drought conditions and alleviated sphingolipid metabolism, arginine metabolism, and glutathione metabolism in the root system, which enhanced the drought resistance of tea seedlings. Exogenous tea polyphenols induced jasmonic acid-isoleucine (JA-ILE) accumulation in the root system, and the jasmonic acid-isoleucine synthetase gene (TEA028623), jasmonic acid ZIM structural domain proteins (JAMs) synthesis genes (novel.22237, TEA001821), and the transcription factor MYC2 (TEA014288, TEA005840) were significantly up-regulated. Meanwhile, the flavonoid metabolic flow was significantly altered in the root; for example, the content of EGCG, ECG, and EGC was significantly increased. Thus, exogenous tea polyphenols enhance the drought resistance of tea plants through multiple pathways.

[Total polyphenols of Cydonia oblonga inhibited proliferation and migration of renal cancer cells by PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway].

The mechanism of total polyphenols of Cydonia oblonga Miller(TPCOM) against kidney cancer was elucidated through a combination of network pharmacology, bioinformatics, and experimental verification. The active polyphenolic compounds from C. oblonga were screened by network pharmacological techniques and kidney cancer-related targets were collected through the database. The differential gene expression analysis was performed on RNA sequencing data from tumor tissue and normal tissue of kidney cancer patients obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO) database. The results of network pharmacology predictions and differential gene expression analysis were used to identify the core genes targeted by TPCOM in kidney cancer. Survival analysis was conducted to identify key targets that could impact patient survival, followed by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) and Gene Ontology(GO) enrichment analyses. Cell proliferation and activity experiments(cell counting kit-8) were conducted using TPCOM at concentrations ranging from 20 to 640 µg·mL~(-1) on 786-O and Renca cells. Additionally, TPCOM at concentrations of 40, 80, and 160 µg·mL~(-1) was applied to kidney cancer cells to assess its effect on cell migration and its regulation of protein expression levels related to the protein kinase B(Akt), mammalian target of rapamycin(mTOR), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase(PI3K) signaling pathways. Network pharmacology predicted eight active polyphenolic compounds from C. oblonga. Survival analysis revealed 15 significantly differentially expressed genes in kidney cancer that were affected by TPCOM and had a significant impact on patient survival. KEGG and GO analysis results indicated that these 15 targets were primarily associated with the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, cell migration, and proliferation. The results showed that TPCOM could inhibit the proliferation of 786-O and Renca cells, with IC_(50) values of 121.4 and 137.9 µg·mL~(-1), respectively. TPCOM was also found to inhibit the migration of these cells and suppress the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. TPCOM may exert its anti-kidney cancer effects by inhibiting the activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby restraining the proliferation and migration of kidney cancer cells. This study provides a foundation for the research on the anti-tumor effects of natural product C. oblonga, particularly in Xinjiang, and holds significance for further promoting its development and utilization.

Seaweeds as Nutraceutical Elements and Drugs for Diabetes Mellitus: Future Perspectives.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic condition marked by high blood glucose levels caused by inadequate insulin synthesis or poor insulin use. This condition affects millions of individuals worldwide and is linked to a variety of consequences, including cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Diabetes therapy now focuses on controlling blood glucose levels through lifestyle changes, oral medicines, and insulin injections. However, these therapies have limits and may not successfully prevent or treat diabetic problems. Several marine-derived chemicals have previously demonstrated promising findings as possible antidiabetic medicines in preclinical investigations. Peptides, polyphenols, and polysaccharides extracted from seaweeds, sponges, and other marine species are among them. As a result, marine natural products have the potential to be a rich source of innovative multitargeted medications for diabetes prevention and treatment, as well as associated complications. Future research should focus on the chemical variety of marine creatures as well as the mechanisms of action of marine-derived chemicals in order to find new antidiabetic medicines and maximize their therapeutic potential. Based on preclinical investigations, this review focuses on the next step for seaweed applications as potential multitargeted medicines for diabetes, highlighting the bioactivities of seaweeds in the prevention and treatment of this illness.

Ameliorative impacts of sinapic acid against mercuric chloride-induced renal toxicity: role of antioxidants and inflammatory cytokines.

Because of their beneficial properties, natural products, especially medicinal plants, are becoming increasingly popular worldwide and play a significant role in research. This study was aimed to evaluate the nephroprotective effect of sinapic acid against mercuric chloride-induced renal toxicity in mice. The mice were allocated to four groups named a normal group (G1), model group (G2; received HgCl2, 1 mg/kg bw), treatments groups (G3 and G4: received 50 and 100 mg/kg bw of sinapic acid together with HgCl2). Mice received HgCl2 remarkably showed alteration in all examined biochemical biomarkers (urea, creatinine, and bilirubin), and induced alteration in blood cell picture and anemia. HgCl2 intoxication decreased both systemic and renal antioxidant activity and induced over all oxidative stress as indicated by alteration in inflammation and oxidative stress associated markers. HgCl2 affected renal histology with leukocytic and inflammatory cell infiltration, fibrosis and tubular necrosis. Administration of sinapic acid (50 and 100 mg/kg bw) markedly restored the HgCl2-induced oxidative stress (serum and renal: MDA, GSH, CAT, SOD, and T-AOC), proinflammatory cytokines (serum and renal: TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1ß, and PGE2) and restored the changes on biochemical markers, and hematological parameters (hemoglobin, erythrocytes, platelets, and leukocytes). Taken together, the results of the present study disclose that sinapic acid has the potential to attenuate HgCl2-induced renal toxicity and may be an ideal choice against mercury poisoning.

Inhibition of polyphenols on Maillard reaction products and their induction of related diseases: A comprehensive review.

BACKGROUND: Food products undergo a pronounced Maillard reaction (MR) during the cooking process, leading to the generation of substantial quantities of Maillard reaction products (MRPs). Within this category, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), acrylamide (AA), and heterocyclic amines (HAs) have been implicated as potential risk factors associated with the development of diseases. PURPOSE: To explore the effects of polyphenols, a class of bioactive compounds found in plants, on the inhibition of MRPs and related diseases. Previous research has mainly focused on their interactions with proteins and their effects on the gastrointestinal tract and other diseases, while fewer studies have examined their inhibitory effects on MRPs. The aim is to offer a scientific reference for future research investigating the inhibitory role of polyphenols in the MR. METHODS: The databases PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and The Cochrane Library were searched for appropriate research. RESULTS: Polyphenols have the potential to inhibit the formation of harmful MRPs and prevent related diseases. The inhibition of MRPs by polyphenols primarily occurs through the following mechanisms: trapping α-dicarbonyl compounds, scavenging free radicals, chelating metal ions, and preserving protein structure. Simultaneously, polyphenols exhibit the ability to impede the onset and progression of related diseases such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease through diverse pathways. CONCLUSION: This review presents that inhibition of polyphenols on Maillard reaction products and their induction of related diseases. Further research is imperative to enhance our comprehension of additional pathways affected by polyphenols and to fully uncover their potential application value in inhibiting MRPs.

Assessment of phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Moroccan propolis.

Background: Despite the extensive literature focused on propolis extract, few data exists on the bioactive compounds and biological activities in the Moroccan propolis and its economic value is low. Objective: In this research, the aim was to evaluate the total content of phenols and flavonoids as well as the antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal activities of Moroccan propolis. Material and Methods: The polyphenol and flavonoid content of the Moroccan propolis from three geographic regions, was quantified in the ethanolic extract by colorimetric methods using folin-ciocalteu and aluminum chloride. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by the DPPH test and expressed as IC50. Disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods were used to examine in vitro antimicrobial activity against known human microorganism pathogens. Results: The obtained data revealed that Moroccan propolis samples presented significant variations in total polyphenols and flavonoids. All samples showed significant antioxidant activity with IC50 values ranging from 4.23±0.5 to 154±0.21 µg/ mL. A strong correlation between total phenolic activity, flavonoids and antioxidant activity was found. The in vitro study of antibacterial activity showed that the propolis samples exhibited a range of growth inhibitory actions against all bacterial strains tested with the highest activity against gram-positive bacteria. Only propolis from the Sidi Bennour region demonstrated an antifungal activity. Conclusion: The study data show that Moroccan propolis extracts have a promising content of antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds that could be exploited to prevent certain diseases linked to oxidative stress and pathogenic infections.

Evaluation of the antinociceptive activities of natural propolis extract derived from stingless bee Trigona thoracica in mice.

Background: : Stingless bee propolis is a popular traditional folk medicine and has been employed since ancient times. This study aimed to evaluate the antinociceptive activities of the chemical constituents of aqueous propolis extract (APE) collected by Trigona thoracica in a nociceptive model in mice. Methods: : The identification of chemical constituents of APE was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Ninety-six male Swiss mice were administered APE (400 mg/kg, 1,000 mg/kg, and 2,000 mg/kg) before developing nociceptive pain models. Then, the antinociceptive properties of each APE dose were evaluated in acetic acid-induced abdominal constriction, hot plate test, and formalin-induced paw licking test. Administration of normal saline, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, 100 mg/kg, orally), and morphine (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) were used for the experiments. Results: : HPLC revealed that the APE from Trigona thoracica contained p-coumaric acid (R2 = 0.999) and caffeic acid (R2 = 0.998). Although all APE dosages showed inhibition of acetic acid-induced abdominal constriction, only 2,000 mg/kg was comparable to the result of ASA (68.7% vs. 73.3%, respectively). In the hot plate test, only 2,000 mg/kg of APE increased the latency time significantly compared to the control. In the formalin test, the durations of paw licking were significantly reduced at early and late phases in all APE groups with a decrease from 45.1% to 53.3%. Conclusions: : APE from Trigona thoracica, containing p-coumaric acid and caffeic acid, exhibited antinociceptive effects, which supports its potential use in targeting the prevention or reversal of central and peripheral sensitization that may produce clinical pain conditions.

Bioactives of Melipona rufiventris Propolis: Exploring its Antimicrobial, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Activities.

This study explores the potential of propolis, a resinous substance produced by bees, from Melipona rufiventris species. With its composition encompassing resin, wax, pollen, and soil, propolis holds historical significance in traditional medicine within tropical regions. This research is driven by the scarcity of information surrounding M. rufiventris propolis, prompting an investigation into its chemical constituents, in vivo toxicity, and antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This exploration could potentially uncover novel applications for this natural product, bolstering both meliponiculture practices and the preservation of native bee populations. The propolis was sampled in Cabo Verde-MG and underwent ethanolic extraction to yield an extract (EEP) for analysis. Chemical assessments (Folin-Ciocalteau, and UHPLC-HRMS) revealed the presence of polyphenols, including flavonoids. The EEP demonstrated higher antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and exhibited efficacy against multiresistant strains isolated from complex wounds. Synergistic interactions with commercial antibiotics were also observed. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory evaluations showcased the EEP's potential in reducing NF-kB activation and TNF-α release at non-toxic concentrations. Despite these promising biological activities, the EEP exhibited no antiproliferative effects and demonstrated safety in both the MTS assay and the G. mellonella model. Collectively, these findings highlight the M. rufiventris propolis extract as a valuable reservoir of bioactive compounds with multifaceted potential.

Antimicrobial Potential of Polyphenols: An Update on Alternative for Combating Antimicrobial Resistance.

The last decade has encountered an increasing demand for plant-based natural antibiotics. This demand has led to more research-based investigations for natural sources of antimicrobial agents and published reports demonstrating that plant extracts are widely applied in modern medicine, reporting potential activity that may be due to polyphenol compounds. Interestingly, the effects of polyphenols on the sensitivity of bacteria to antibiotics have not been well-studied. Hence, the current review encompasses the prospective application of plant-based phenolic extracts from plants of Indian origin. The emergence of resistance to antimicrobial agents has increased the inefficacy of many antimicrobial drugs. Several strategies have been developed in recent times to overcome this issue. A combination of antimicrobial agents is employed for the failing antibiotics, which restores the desirable effect but may have toxicity-related issues. Phytochemicals such as some polyphenols have demonstrated their potent activity as antimicrobial agents of natural origin to work against resistance issues. These agents alone or in combination with certain antibiotics have been shown to enhance the antimicrobial activity against a spectrum of microbes. However, the information regarding the mechanisms and structure-activity relationships remains elusive. The present review also focuses on the possible mechanisms of natural compounds based on their structure- activity relationships for incorporating polyphenolic compounds in the drug-development processes. Besides this work, polyphenols could reduce drug dosage and may diminish the unhidden or hidden side effects of antibiotics. Pre-clinical findings have provided strong evidence that polyphenolic compounds, individually and in combination with already approved antibiotics, work well against the development of resistance. However, more studies must focus on in vivo results, and clinical research needs to specify the importance of polyphenol-based antibacterials in clinical trials.

A dual network cross-linked hydrogel with multifunctional Bletilla striata polysaccharide/gelatin/tea polyphenol for wound healing promotion.

Wound healing is a dynamic and complex biological process, and traditional biological excipients cannot meet the needs of the wound healing process, and there is an urgent need for a biological dressing with multifunctionality and the ability to participate in all stages of wound healing. This study developed tea polyphenol (TP) incorporated multifunctional hydrogel based on oxidized Bletilla striata polysaccharide (OBSP) and adipic acid dihydrazide modified gelatin (Gel-ADH) with antimicrobial, antioxidant hemostatic, and anti-inflammatory properties to promote wound healing. The composite OBSP, Gel-ADH, TP (OBGTP) hydrogels prepared by double crosslinking between OBSP, TP and Gel-ADH via Schiff base bonding and hydrogen bonding had good rheological and swelling properties. The introduction of TP provided the composite hydrogel with excellent antioxidant antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coil). In the rat liver hemorrhage model and skin injury model, the OBGTP composite hydrogel had significant (p < 0.001) hemostatic ability, and had the ability to accelerate collagen deposition, reduce the expression of inflammatory factors, and promote rapid wound healing. In addition, OBGTP hydrogels had adhesive properties and good biocompatibility. In conclusion, OBGTP multifunctional composite hydrogels have great potential for wound healing applications.

Functional and Therapeutic Potential of Cynara scolymus in Health Benefits.

Dietary supplements enriched with bioactive compounds represent a promising approach to influence physiological processes and enhance longevity and overall health. Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus serves as a functional food supplement with a high concentration of bioactive compounds, which offers various health-promoting benefits. Several chronic diseases have metabolic, genetic, or inflammatory origins, which are frequently interconnected. Pharmacological treatments, although effective, often result in undesirable side effects. In this context, preventive approaches are gaining increased attention. Recent literature indicates that the consumption of bioactive compounds in the diet can positively influence the organism's biological functions. Polyphenols, well-known for their health benefits, are widely recognized as valuable compounds in preventing/combating various pathologies related to lifestyle, metabolism, and aging. The C. scolymus belonging to the Asteraceae family, is widely used in the food and herbal medicine fields for its beneficial properties. Although the inflorescences (capitula) of the artichoke are used for food and culinary purposes, preparations based on artichoke leaves can be used as an active ingredient in herbal medicines. Cynara scolymus shows potential benefits in different domains. Its nutritional value and health benefits make it a promising candidate for improving overall well-being. C. scolymus exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, liver-protective, bile-expelling, antimicrobial, and lipid-lowering neuroprotective properties. Different studies demonstrate that oxidative stress is the leading cause of the onset and progression of major human health disorders such as cardiovascular, neurological, metabolic, and cancer diseases. The large amount of polyphenol found in C. scolymus has an antioxidant activity, enabling it to neutralize free radicals, preventing cellular damage. This reduces the subsequent risk of developing conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, these polyphenols demonstrate anti-inflammatory activity, which is closely associated with their antioxidant properties. As a result, C. scolymus has the potential to contribute to the treatment of chronic diseases, including intestinal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative pathologies. The current review discussed the nutritional profiles, potential benefits, and pharmacological effects of C. scolymus.

Chemopreventive and immunomodulatory effects of phenolic-rich extract of Commiphora leptophloeos against inflammatory bowel disease: Preclinical evidence.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE: Commiphora leptophloeos (Mart.) J.B. Gillet (Burseraceae) is a medicinal plant native to Brazil, popularly known as "imburana". Homemade leaf decoction and maceration were used to treat general inflammatory problems in the Brazilian Northeast population. Our previous research confirmed the anti-inflammatory activity of the C. leptophloeos hydroalcoholic leaf extract. AIM OF THE STUDY: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory disorder of the gut with no ideal treatment to maintain the remissive status. This work aimed to characterize the phytochemical composition and physicochemical properties of the C. leptophloeos hydroalcoholic leaf extract and its efficacy in chemopreventive and immunomodulatory responses in inflammatory bowel disease in non-clinical models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mass spectrometry and physicochemical tests determined the phytochemical profile and physicochemical characteristics of the Commiphora leptophloeos (CL) extract. The chemopreventive and immunomodulatory effects of CL extract (50 and 125 µg/mL) were evaluated in vitro in the RAW 264.7 lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced cell assay and in vivo in the model of intestinal inflammation induced by 2,4-Dinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (DNBS) in mice when they were treated with CL extract by intragastric gavage (i.g.) at doses of 300, 400 and 500 mg/kg. RESULTS: Phytochemical annotation of CL extract showed a complex phenolic composition, characterized as phenolic acids and flavonoids, and satisfactory physicochemical characteristics. In addition, CL extract maintained the viability of RAW macrophages, reduced ROS and NO production, and negatively regulated COX-2, iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6, and IL-17 (p < 0.05). In the intestinal inflammation model, CL extract was able to downregulate NF-κB p65/COX-2, mTOR, iNOS, IL-17, decrease levels of malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase and cytokines TNF-α, IL-1ß and IL-6 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Based on these findings, CL extract reduced inflammatory responses by down-regulating pro-inflammatory markers in macrophages induced by LPS and DNBS-induced colitis in mice through NF-κB p65/COX-2 signaling. CL leaf extract requires further investigation as a candidate for treating inflammatory bowel disease.

Polyphenols from hickory nut reduce the occurrence of atherosclerosis in mice by improving intestinal microbiota and inhibiting trimethylamine N-oxide production.

BACKGROUND: Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a metabolite produced by intestinal microbiota through metabolizing phosphatidylcholine, choline, l-carnitine and betaine in the diet, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (AS). Concurrently, dietary polyphenols have garnered attention for their potential to ameliorate obesity, diabetes and atherosclerosis primarily by modulating the intestinal microbial structure. Hickory (Carya cathayensis) nut, a polyphenol-rich food product favored for its palatability, emerges as a candidate for exploration. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE: The relationship between polyphenol of hickory nut and atherosclerosis prevention will be firstly clarified, providing theoretical basis for the discovery of natural products counteracting TMAO-induced AS process in hickory nut. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Employing Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and histological examination of aortic samples, the effects of total polyphenol extract on obesity index, inflammatory index and pathological changes of atherosclerosis in C57BL/6 J mice fed with high-fat and high choline diet were evaluated. Further, the composition, abundance, and function of mouse gut microbiota were analyzed through 16srDNA sequencing. Concurrently, the levels of TMAO and the expression of key enzymes (CutC and FMO3) involved in its synthesis are quantified using ELISA, Western Blot and Real-Time Quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Additionally, targeted metabolomic profiling of the hickory nut polyphenol extract was conducted, accompanied by molecular docking simulations to predict interactions between candidate polyphenols and the CutC/FMO3 using Autodock Vina. Finally, the docking prediction were verified by microscale thermophoresis (MST) . RESULTS: Polyphenol extracts of hickory nut improved the index of obesity and inflammation, and alleviated the pathological changes of atherosclerosis in C57BL/6 J mice fed with high-fat and high-choline diet. Meanwhile, these polyphenol extracts also changed the composition and function of intestinal microbiota, and increased the abundance of microorganisms in mice. Notably, the abundance of intestinal microbiota endowed with CutC gene was significantly reduced, coherent with expression of CutC catalyzing TMA production. Moreover, polyphenol extracts also decreased the expression of FMO3 in the liver, contributing to the reduction of TMAO levels in serum. Furthermore, metabonomic profile analysis of these polyphenol extracts identified 647 kinds of polyphenols. Molecular docking predication further demonstrated that Casuariin and Cinnamtannin B2 had the most potential inhibition on the enzymatic activities of CutC or FMO3, respectively. Notably, MST analysis corroborated the potential for direct interaction between CutC enzyme and available polyphenols such as Corilagin, (-)-Gallocatechin gallate and Epigallocatechin gallate. CONCLUSION: Hickory polyphenol extract can mitigate HFD-induced AS by regulating intestinal microflora in murine models. In addition, TMA-FMO3-TMAO pathway may play a key role in this process. This research unveils, for the inaugural time, the complex interaction between hickory nut-derived polyphenols and gut microbial, providing novel insights into the role of dietary polyphenols in AS prevention.

A novel hybrid sensor array based on the polyphenol oxidase and its nanozymes combined with the machine learning based dual output model to identify tea polyphenols and Chinese teas.

A novel sensor array was developed based on the enzyme/nanozyme hybridization for the identification of tea polyphenols (TPs) and Chinese teas. The enzyme/nanozyme with polyphenol oxidase activity can catalyze the reaction between TPs and 4-aminoantipyrine (4-AAP) to produce differences in color, and the sensor array was thus constructed to accurately identify TPs mixed in different species, concentrations, or ratios. In addition, a machine learning based dual output model was further used to effectively predict the classes and concentrations of unknown samples. Therefore, the qualitative and quantitative detection of TPs can be realized continuously and quickly. Furthermore, the sensor array combining the machine learning based dual output model was also utilized for the identification of Chinese teas. The method can distinguish the six teas series in China, and then precisely differentiate the more specific tea varieties. This study provides an efficient and facile strategy for the identification of teas and tea products.

Oxidative Stress: The Role of Antioxidant Phytochemicals in the Prevention and Treatment of Diseases.

Oxidative stress, characterized by an imbalance favouring oxidants over antioxidants, is a key contributor to the development of various common diseases. Counteracting these oxidants is considered an effective strategy to mitigate the levels of oxidative stress in organisms. Numerous studies have indicated an inverse correlation between the consumption of vegetables and fruits and the risk of chronic diseases, attributing these health benefits to the presence of antioxidant phytochemicals in these foods. Phytochemicals, present in a wide range of foods and medicinal plants, play a pivotal role in preventing and treating chronic diseases induced by oxidative stress by working as antioxidants. These compounds exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, anticancer, and protective properties against cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and neurodegenerative conditions. This comprehensive review delves into the significance of these compounds in averting and managing chronic diseases, elucidating the key sources of these invaluable elements. Additionally, it provides a summary of recent advancements in understanding the health benefits associated with antioxidant phytochemicals.

Resveratrol as a Promising Nutraceutical: Implications in Gut Microbiota Modulation, Inflammatory Disorders, and Colorectal Cancer.

Natural products have been a long-standing source for exploring health-beneficial components from time immemorial. Modern science has had a renewed interest in natural-products-based drug discovery. The quest for new potential secondary metabolites or exploring enhanced activities for existing molecules remains a pertinent topic for research. Resveratrol belongs to the stilbenoid polyphenols group that encompasses two phenol rings linked by ethylene bonds. Several plant species and foods, including grape skin and seeds, are the primary source of this compound. Resveratrol is known to possess potent anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and immunoregulatory properties. Among the notable bioactivities associated with resveratrol, its pivotal role in safeguarding the intestinal barrier is highlighted for its capacity to prevent intestinal inflammation and regulate the gut microbiome. A better understanding of how oxidative stress can be controlled using resveratrol and its capability to protect the intestinal barrier from a gut microbiome perspective can shed more light on associated physiological conditions. Additionally, resveratrol exhibits antitumor activity, proving its potential for cancer treatment and prevention. Moreover, cardioprotective, vasorelaxant, phytoestrogenic, and neuroprotective benefits have also been reported. The pharmaceutical industry continues to encounter difficulties administering resveratrol owing to its inadequate bioavailability and poor solubility, which must be addressed simultaneously. This report summarizes the currently available literature unveiling the pharmacological effects of resveratrol.

Decaffeinated green tea polyphenols supplementation had no adverse health effects in girls with obesity: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: While the health promoting effects of green tea polyphenols have been identi-fied among adult, research on children is scarce probably due to safety concerns about caffeine. This study aims to evaluate the safety of decaffeinated green tea polyphenols (DGTP) supplementation in girls with obesity and lay the foundation for its application in children population. METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN: This 12-week randomized, double-blinded, parallel-controlled trial was performed among 62 girls with obesity aged 6 to 10 years old. Participants were allocated to take 400 mg/d DGTP (DGTP group, n = 31) or isodose placebo (Control group, n = 31) at random. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical parameters including hepatic and renal function indicators, serum minerals concentrations, and routine blood parameters, were measured at baseline and the end of this trial. DGTP intake diary was required for each participant to record any abnormal reactions. RESULTS: After the 12-week supplementation, compared to Control group, the uric acid concentration in DGTP group showed a significant decrease (-48.0 ± 83.2 vs -0.01 ± 69.1, µmol/L), within the normal range. Regarding other biochemical indicators, there were no significant differences in changed values between the two groups. Throughout the trial, no adverse effects were reported in either group. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicated that the supplementation of 400 mg/d DGTP for 12 weeks had no adverse health effects in girls with obesity, providing evidence for the DGTP adoption in children research.

Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Molecular Docking Study of Dry Extracts of Matricaria discoidea DC. with Analgesic and Soporific Activities.

Pineapple weed (Matricaria discoidea DC.) is a widespread plant in Europe and North America. In ethnomedicine, it is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic activities. The aim of this research was to develop novel methods of M. discoidea processing to obtain essential oil and dry extracts and to investigate their phytochemical compositions. Moreover, the molecular docking of the main substances and the in vivo studies on their soporific and analgesic activities were conducted. The essential oil and two dry extracts from M. discoidea were prepared. A total of 16 phenolic compounds (seven flavonoids, seven hydroxycinnamic acids, and two phenolic acids) in the dry extracts were identified by means of UPLC-MS/MS. In the essential oil, nine main terpenoids were identified by gas chromatography (GC). It was shown that phenolic extraction from the herb was successful when using 70% ethanol in a triple extraction method and at a ratio of 1:14-1:16. The in vivo studies with rodents demonstrated the analgesic activity of the M. discoidea extracts and improvements in the sleep of animals. The dry extracts of M. discoidea did not show any toxicity. The molecular docking analysis showed a high probability of COX-1,2 inhibition and NMDA receptor antagonism by the extracts.