Activation of Vegetable Oils by Reaction with Maleic Anhydride as a Renewable Source in Chemical Processes: New Experimental and Computational NMR Evidence.

Vegetable oils are bio-based and sustainable starting materials that can be used to develop chemicals for industrial processes. In this study, the functionalization of three vegetable oils (grape, hemp, and linseed) with maleic anhydride was carried out either by conventional heating or microwave activation to obtain products that, after further reactions, can enhance the water dispersion of oils for industrial applications. To identify the most abundant derivatives formed, trans-3-octene, methyl oleate, and ethyl linoleate were reacted as reference systems. A detailed NMR study, supported by computational evidence, allowed for the identification of the species formed in the reaction of trans-3-octene with maleic anhydride. The signals in the 1H NMR spectra of the alkenyl succinic anhydride (ASA) moieties bound to the organic chains were clearly identified. The reactions achieved by conventional heating were carried out for 5 h at 200 °C, resulting in similar or lower amounts of ASA units/g of oil with respect to the reactions performed by microwave activation, which, however, induced a higher viscosity of the samples.

Rosa chinensis in vitro cell cultures: a phytocomplex rich of medium molecular weight polysaccharides with hydrating properties.

In-vitro cell cultures of selected Rosa chinensis meristematic cells cultivated with an innovative CROP® (Controlled Release of Optimized Plants) platform, allowed obtaining a stable and standardized phytocomplex rich of medium molecular weight polysaccharides. The polysaccharides profile of the rose extract has been analysed with the size exclusion chromatography (HPLC-ELSD-SEC) both in the in vitro extract and in the dried petals of Rosa chinensis. The polysaccharides content in the extract was ≥20%, higher than in the dried petals. The 65-80% of total polysaccharides have a medium molecular weight (1000 Da), known for their moisturizing and anti-age properties. Reconstructed human epidermis in homeostatic conditions was used to evaluate its moisturizing action and the ability to maintain homeostasis. The Rosa chinensis extract increased the Aquaporin-3 expression and cell membrane localization and demonstrated to regulate hydration either in topical and systemic exposure.