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Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024The Lamiaceae family, which includes several well-known aromatic plants, is scientifically relevant due to its essential oils (EOs). In this work, four EOs from...
The Lamiaceae family, which includes several well-known aromatic plants, is scientifically relevant due to its essential oils (EOs). In this work, four EOs from Mediterranean species, namely L., L., L., and L., were evaluated for their volatile profiles and the biological activity in vitro to assess their potential use in the food and cosmetic sector. GC/MS analysis revealed dominant compounds, such as carvacrol, thymol, and eucalyptol. Regarding biological action, the samples exhibited antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal activities, with and standing out. showed the lowest EC in the reducing power assay, and had the lowest EC in the DPPH assay. Most EOs also displayed excellent anti-inflammatory responses and antifungal properties, with and also demonstrating antibacterial activity. All EOs from Mediterranean species showed cytotoxicity against tumoral cell lines. Overall, the selected EOs stood out for their interesting bioactivities, with the obtained results underscoring their potential as natural preservatives and bioactive agents in various industrial applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
Topics: Oils, Volatile; Lamiaceae; Antioxidants; Humans; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; Origanum; Salvia officinalis; Cell Line, Tumor; Thymus Plant; Anti-Infective Agents; Plants, Edible; Plant Oils; Thymol; Microbial Sensitivity Tests; Cymenes
PubMed: 38930892
DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122827 -
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024This study is the first to investigate the chemical composition and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities of leaf oil. A yellow oil was obtained...
This study is the first to investigate the chemical composition and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities of leaf oil. A yellow oil was obtained through hydro-distillation, with a yield of 0.1% (/). The GC-MS analysis revealed 66 compounds, constituting 99.6% of the oil. Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons predominated (70.4%), followed by monoterpene hydrocarbons (13.2%), oxygenated sesquiterpenes (12.4%), non-terpenic compounds (2.0%), and oxygenated monoterpenes (1.6%). Major constituents included germacrene D (25.1%), ()-caryophyllene (17.4%), bicyclogermacrene (6.6%), -pinene (6.2%), and -pinene (4.7%). The assessment of antioxidant capacity via 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay yielded a weak effect, with an IC value > 100 µg/mL. The inhibition of lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 cells was quantified using the MTT assay, showing an IC value of 15.15 ± 0.68 µg/mL. Furthermore, cytotoxic effects on SK-LU-1 cell line growth were evaluated using the sulforhodamine B assay, resulting in an IC value of 37.45 ± 2.43 μg/mL. The anti-inflammatory activity was notable among the analyzed bioactivities of this oil. By employing a computational model, the predominant secondary metabolites in the essential oil were selected as candidates for interaction analysis with cyclooxygenase-2, an enzyme implicated in the inflammatory response. Our findings suggest that leaf oil could serve as a potential source of natural compounds with prospective therapeutic effects in treating inflammatory conditions.
Topics: Oils, Volatile; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Antioxidants; Mice; Animals; RAW 264.7 Cells; Peperomia; Nitric Oxide; Plant Leaves; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; Computer Simulation; Southeast Asian People
PubMed: 38930872
DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122808 -
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024The present study provides a comprehensive analysis of the chemical composition of essential oils from species of the genus and their applications. The compiled results... (Review)
Review
The present study provides a comprehensive analysis of the chemical composition of essential oils from species of the genus and their applications. The compiled results highlight the chemical diversity and biological activities of these oils, emphasizing their potential importance for various therapeutic and industrial applications. The findings reveal that essential oils present a variety of bioactive compounds, such as monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, which demonstrate antimicrobial activities against a range of microorganisms, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as yeasts. Furthermore, this study highlights the phytotoxic activity of these oils, indicating their potential for weed control. The results also point to the insecticidal potential of essential oils against a range of pests, showing their viability as an alternative to synthetic pesticides. Additionally, species of the genus have demonstrated promising hypoglycemic effects, suggesting their potential in diabetes treatment. This comprehensive synthesis represents a significant advancement in understanding essential oils, highlighting their chemical diversity and wide range of biological activities. However, the need for further research is emphasized to fully explore the therapeutic and industrial potential of these oils, including the identification of new compounds, understanding of their mechanisms of action, and evaluation of safety and efficacy in different contexts.
Topics: Oils, Volatile; Anti-Infective Agents; Insecticides; Myrtaceae; Humans; Hypoglycemic Agents; Animals; Plant Oils
PubMed: 38930786
DOI: 10.3390/molecules29122720 -
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) Jun 2024The prevalence of skin aging and the request for effective treatments have driven dermatological research towards natural solutions. This study investigates the... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
The prevalence of skin aging and the request for effective treatments have driven dermatological research towards natural solutions. This study investigates the anti-aging efficacy of two bioactive natural polyphenols, Oleocanthal and Oleacein, in a skincare formulation. A single-blind, randomized clinical trial involved 70 participants, using a comprehensive exclusion criterion to ensure participant safety and study integrity. Participants applied the Oleocanthal and Oleacein 1% serum formulation twice daily for 30 days. The efficacy was objectively assessed using the VISIA Skin Analysis System at baseline, after 15 days, and after 30 days. Results indicated significant wrinkle reduction in most groups. For women aged 45-79 years, the mean change was -33.91% (95% CI: -46.75% to -21.07%). For men aged 20-44 years, it was -51.93% (95% CI: -76.54% to -27.33%), and for men aged 45-79 years, it was -46.56% (95% CI: -58.32% to -34.81%). For women aged 20-44 years, the change was -25.68% (95% CI: -63.91% to 12.54%), not statistically significant. These findings highlight the potential of EVOO-derived polyphenols in anti-aging skincare, particularly for older adults. This research paves the way for further exploration into natural compounds in dermatology, particularly for aging skin management.
Topics: Humans; Middle Aged; Female; Male; Aged; Adult; Skin Aging; Cyclopentane Monoterpenes; Aldehydes; Single-Blind Method; Phenols
PubMed: 38929564
DOI: 10.3390/medicina60060947 -
Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024In the Azores archipelago (Portugal), forest operations and wood industry generate large amounts of biomass residues (CJBR), which can be used to produce valuable...
In the Azores archipelago (Portugal), forest operations and wood industry generate large amounts of biomass residues (CJBR), which can be used to produce valuable essential oils (EOs). In this study, we evaluated the chemical composition and antioxidant activities of EOs from Azorean sawdust (CJS) and resin-rich bark (CJRRB). The CJS and CJRRB EOs, obtained via hydrodistillation, showed different yield values (0.27% vs. 0.80% /, dry weight) and also different chemical profiles, as assessed using GC/MS. A total of 64 and 85 components were identified in CJS and CJRRB EOs, representing 95.7% and 96.9% of the total composition, respectively. The major components in CJS EO were oxygenated sesquiterpenes (mainly α+β-eudesmol, 1-epicubenol, and cubebol), while in CJRRB EO, the major components were monoterpene hydrocarbons, including α-pinene, δ-3-carene, and limonene (66.6% vs. 6.4% for oxygenated sesquiterpenes and 0% vs. 64% for monoterpene hydrocarbons, respectively). Antioxidant activity was estimated using (i) two radical-based assays, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activity, and (ii) a lipid model assay, β-carotene-linoleic acid bleaching activity (BCBA). Both CJS and CJRRB EOs exhibited concentration-dependent antioxidant activities, and their DPPH, ABTS, and BCBA EC values were 1107 vs. 1275 µg/mL, 260 vs. 498 µg/mL, and 1764 vs. 662 µg/mL, respectively. The results indicate that both EOs were able to exert antioxidant activity via different mechanisms of action. Therefore, Azorean CJS and CJRRB may be sustainable sources for antioxidant compounds. This study expands the chemical and biological knowledge of CJBR EOs and, consequently, adds more value to the EO industry.
PubMed: 38929167
DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060728 -
Foods (Basel, Switzerland) Jun 2024This investigation aimed to identify the most favorable cultivar based on plant metabolites for potential targeted cultivation in the pharmaceutical industry. The...
This investigation aimed to identify the most favorable cultivar based on plant metabolites for potential targeted cultivation in the pharmaceutical industry. The analysis revealed the presence of 19 individual phenolics and 80 individual volatiles across the cultivars, a breadth of data not previously explored to such an extent. Flavones emerged as the predominant phenolic group in all mint-scented cultivars, except for peppermint, where hydroxycinnamic acids dominated. Peppermint exhibited high concentrations of phenolic acids, particularly caffeic acid derivatives and rosmarinic acid, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Luteolin-rich concentrations were found in several mint varieties, known for their antioxidative, antitumor, and cardio-protective properties. Swiss mint and spearmint stood out with elevated levels of flavanones, particularly eriocitrin, akin to citrus fruits. Monoterpene volatiles, including menthol, camphor, limonene, and carvone, were identified across all cultivars, with Swiss mint and spearmint exhibiting the highest amounts. The study underscores the potential for targeted cultivation to enhance volatile yields and reduce agricultural land use. Notably, chocolate mint demonstrated promise for volatile content, while apple mint excelled in phenolics, suggesting their potential for broader agricultural, pharmaceutical, and food industry production.
PubMed: 38928799
DOI: 10.3390/foods13121857 -
Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024Hemp ( L.) has been used for millennia as a rich source of food and fibers, whereas hemp flowers have only recently gained an increased market interest due to the...
Hemp ( L.) has been used for millennia as a rich source of food and fibers, whereas hemp flowers have only recently gained an increased market interest due to the presence of cannabinoids and volatile terpenes. Currently, the hemp flower processing industry predominantly focuses on either cannabinoid or terpene extraction. In an attempt to maximize the valorization of hemp flowers, the current study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and antimicrobial properties of several extracts obtained from post-distillation by-products (e.g., spent material, residual distillation water) in comparison to the essential oil and total extract obtained from unprocessed hemp flowers. A terpene analysis of the essential oil revealed 14 monoterpenes and 35 sesquiterpenes. The cannabinoid profiling of extracts showed seven acidic precursors and 14 neutral derivatives, with cannabidiol (CBD) reaching the highest concentration (up to 16 wt.%) in the spent material extract. The antimicrobial assessment of hemp EO, cannabinoid-containing extracts, and single compounds (i.e., CBD, cannabigerol, cannabinol, and cannabichromene) against a panel of 20 microbial strains demonstrated significant inhibitory activities against Gram-positive bacteria, , and species. In conclusion, this work suggests promising opportunities to use cannabinoid-rich materials from hemp flower processing in functional foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals with antimicrobial properties.
PubMed: 38927152
DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13060485 -
Drug Design, Development and Therapy 2024Catalpol, as a natural medicine small-molecule drug, has been proven to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pharmacological effects.
OBJECTIVE
Catalpol, as a natural medicine small-molecule drug, has been proven to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pharmacological effects.
METHODS
The effect of catalpol on oxidative damage of mouse epidermal fibroblast L929 model and its mechanism were investigated by using hydrogen peroxide model, CCK8 method, flow cytometry, and Western blot.
RESULTS
The effect of catalpol on Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway was further studied to improve oxidative stress in cell models. The results showed that catalpol had no cytotoxicity to L929 cells, and inhibited the apoptosis of L929 cells after oxidative damage in a concentration-dependent manner, thus playing a role in cell protection. The oxidative damage of cells was inhibited by up-regulating the expression of the signature protein of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and inhibiting the interstitial formation of cells.
CONCLUSION
This study is a preliminary study on the protective function of catalpol against oxidation and apoptosis in dermal fibroblasts, which can provide a theoretical basis and drug guidance for promoting skin wound healing in the later stage.
Topics: Iridoid Glucosides; NF-E2-Related Factor 2; Fibroblasts; Oxidative Stress; Animals; Mice; Signal Transduction; Heme Oxygenase-1; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Apoptosis; Cells, Cultured; Hydrogen Peroxide; Antioxidants; Skin; Structure-Activity Relationship; Cell Line; Membrane Proteins
PubMed: 38915869
DOI: 10.2147/DDDT.S467569 -
BMC Plant Biology Jun 2024Monoterpenes are among the most important volatile aromatic compounds contributing to the flavor and aroma of grapes and wine. However, the molecular basis of...
BACKGROUND
Monoterpenes are among the most important volatile aromatic compounds contributing to the flavor and aroma of grapes and wine. However, the molecular basis of monoterpene biosynthesis has not yet been fully elucidated.
RESULTS
In our study, transcriptomics and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were used to mine candidate genes and transcription factors involved in monoterpene biosynthesis between high-monoterpene and zero-monoterpene table grape cultivars. We found that monoterpene biosynthesis was positively correlated by the expression of five genes encoding 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase (VvDXSs), one encoding 4-hydroxy-3-methylbut-2-enyl diphosphate reductase (VvHDR), three hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthases (VvHMGSs) and one mevalonate kinase (VvMVK), whereas the expression of one isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase (VvIDI) and one 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (VvHMGR) negatively correlated monoterpene biosynthesis. Of these genes, VvIDI was selected to validate its function in monoterpene accumulation through a transient overexpression experiment, and was shown to inhibit the biosynthesis of grape linalool and α-terpineol. Meanwhile, we found that a 64-amino acid extension sequence at the N-terminus can guide the VvIDI protein to target the chloroplast.
CONCLUSIONS
The findings of this study should help to guide future functional analysis of key genes as well as mining the potential regulatory mechanism of monoterpene biosynthesis in grapes and grape products.
Topics: Vitis; Monoterpenes; Carbon-Carbon Double Bond Isomerases; Transcriptome; Plant Proteins; Gene Expression Regulation, Plant; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; Odorants; Hemiterpenes
PubMed: 38914931
DOI: 10.1186/s12870-024-05306-y -
Scientific Reports Jun 2024Pyrethroid bednets treated with the synergist piperonyl butoxide (PBO) offer the possibility of improved vector control in mosquito populations with metabolic...
LLIN Evaluation in Uganda Project (LLINEUP)-effects of a vector control trial on Plasmodium infection prevalence and genotypic markers of insecticide resistance in Anopheles vectors from 48 districts of Uganda.
Pyrethroid bednets treated with the synergist piperonyl butoxide (PBO) offer the possibility of improved vector control in mosquito populations with metabolic resistance. In 2017-2019, we conducted a large-scale, cluster-randomised trial (LLINEUP) to evaluate long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) treated with a pyrethroid insecticide plus PBO (PBO LLINs), as compared to conventional, pyrethroid-only LLINs across 104 health sub-districts (HSDs) in Uganda. In LLINEUP, and similar trials in Tanzania, PBO LLINs were found to provide greater protection against malaria than conventional LLINs, reducing parasitaemia and vector density. In the LLINEUP trial, we conducted cross-sectional household entomological surveys at baseline and then every 6 months for two years, which we use here to investigate longitudinal changes in mosquito infection rate and genetic markers of resistance. Overall, 5395 female Anopheles mosquitoes were collected from 5046 households. The proportion of mosquitoes infected (PCR-positive) with Plasmodium falciparum did not change significantly over time, while infection with non-falciparum malaria decreased in An. gambiae s.s., but not An. funestus. The frequency of genetic markers associated with pyrethroid resistance increased significantly over time, but the rate of change was not different between the two LLIN types. The knock-down resistance (kdr) mutation Vgsc-995S declined over time as Vgsc-995F, the alternative resistance mutation at this codon, increased. Vgsc-995F appears to be spreading into Uganda. Distribution of LLINs in Uganda was previously found to be associated with reductions in parasite prevalence and vector density, but here we show that the proportion of infective mosquitoes remained stable across both PBO and non-PBO LLINs, suggesting that the potential for transmission persisted. The increased frequency of markers of pyrethroid resistance indicates that LLIN distribution favoured the evolution of resistance within local vectors and highlights the potential benefits of resistance management strategies.Trial registration: This study is registered with ISRCTN, ISRCTN17516395. Registered 14 February 2017, http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN17516395 .
Topics: Animals; Anopheles; Insecticide Resistance; Uganda; Mosquito Vectors; Insecticide-Treated Bednets; Mosquito Control; Humans; Pyrethrins; Insecticides; Malaria; Female; Plasmodium falciparum; Prevalence; Genetic Markers; Cross-Sectional Studies; Malaria, Falciparum; Piperonyl Butoxide; Genotype
PubMed: 38914669
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65050-z