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15 pages, 4043 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant, Antidiabetic, and Vasorelaxant Effects of Ethanolic Extract from the Seeds of Swietenia humilis
by Elizabeth Alejandrina Guzmán Hernández, Gladys Chirino Galindo, Rubén San Miguel Chávez, Patricia Castro Moreno, Maximiliano Ibarra Barajas, Tomás Ernesto Villamar Duque, Anayantzin Paulina Heredia Antúnez, Leonardo del Valle Mondragón, Gil Alfonso Magos Guerrero and David Segura Cobos
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(5), 2063; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26052063 (registering DOI) - 27 Feb 2025
Abstract
Arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus are components of the cardiometabolic syndrome that arises from a sedentary lifestyle, excess calorie intake, and obesity. Swietenia humilis Zucc has been used in traditional Mexican medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus; this work investigated the antioxidant, [...] Read more.
Arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus are components of the cardiometabolic syndrome that arises from a sedentary lifestyle, excess calorie intake, and obesity. Swietenia humilis Zucc has been used in traditional Mexican medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus; this work investigated the antioxidant, antidiabetic, and vasorelaxant effects of ethanolic extract of S. humilis seeds. The phytochemical composition of the extract was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. To study the hypoglycemic effect, the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase) and markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde and 8-hydroxy-2-desoxyguanosine) were evaluated in the model of diabetes mellitus induced by nicotinamide and streptozotocin in rats. The vasodilatory effect of the extract was tested in rat aortic rings. The ethanolic extract of seeds of Swietenia humilis showed antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and endothelium-independent vasorelaxant effects, probably by blocking calcium transport, likely due to ursolic acid and α-amyrin, phytochemical compounds more abundant in the extract. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Research on Plants as Natural Antioxidants)
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22 pages, 4666 KiB  
Article
Plasma-Activated Water Produced by a Moderately High Energy-Efficient 1-Liter Reactor: Effects on Germination and Growth of Tomato and Bell Pepper Plants
by Matías G. Ferreyra, María M. Caffaro, Brenda Santamaría, Carla Zilli, Alejandra Hernández, Brenda L. Fina, Ada S. Vélez, Karina B. Balestrasse and Leandro Prevosto
Plants 2025, 14(5), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14050722 (registering DOI) - 27 Feb 2025
Abstract
Plasma-activated water (PAW) is a sustainable and innovative alternative for agriculture, especially in controlled environments like greenhouses. Tomato and pepper are key horticultural crops worldwide, with a considerable part of their production in greenhouses. This study examined the effects of PAW irrigation on [...] Read more.
Plasma-activated water (PAW) is a sustainable and innovative alternative for agriculture, especially in controlled environments like greenhouses. Tomato and pepper are key horticultural crops worldwide, with a considerable part of their production in greenhouses. This study examined the effects of PAW irrigation on seed germination, plant growth, and oxidative stress in tomato and bell pepper plants. PAW was activated for up to 15 min using a 1 L capacity plasma reactor based on a glow-type discharge in air with water-cathode. The concentration of nitrogen compounds and the energy efficiency of synthesis obtained with the reactor were moderately high (5.4 mM and 60 nmol/J, respectively). The most notable effects of PAW were observed in bell pepper. The germination percentage in bell pepper increased by up to 26%, while no significant effects were found in tomato seeds. PAW irrigation significantly promoted plant growth, with dry weight increasing by up to 61% in bell pepper and 42% in tomato. Lipid peroxidation results showed no oxidative damage in either crop. The biochemical analysis of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and guaiacol peroxidase) confirmed that plant defense systems responded adequately to PAW irrigation. These results highlight PAW’s potential as an innovative and eco-friendly alternative in agriculture. Full article
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19 pages, 6732 KiB  
Article
Peptide Fraction from Naja mandalayensis Snake Venom Showed Neuroprotection Against Oxidative Stress in Hippocampal mHippoE-18 Cells but Not in Neuronal PC12 Cells
by Brenda R. Silva, Lais C. Mendes, Marcela B. Echeverry, Maria Aparecida Juliano, Emidio Beraldo-Neto and Carlos Alberto-Silva
Antioxidants 2025, 14(3), 277; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14030277 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 19
Abstract
Functional characterization of peptide fraction (PF) from snake venom has provided novel opportunities to investigate possible neuroprotective compounds relevant to pharmaceuticals. This study was performed to investigate the PF-mediated neuroprotection obtained from Naja mandalayensis snake venom, a member of the Elapidae family, using [...] Read more.
Functional characterization of peptide fraction (PF) from snake venom has provided novel opportunities to investigate possible neuroprotective compounds relevant to pharmaceuticals. This study was performed to investigate the PF-mediated neuroprotection obtained from Naja mandalayensis snake venom, a member of the Elapidae family, using two neuronal cell lines, undifferentiated PC12 and differentiated mHippoE-18, in response to H2O2-induced oxidative stress. Cells were pre-treated for 4 h with PF (10, 1, 0.01, and 0.001 μg mL⁻1), and thereafter exposed to H2O2 (0.5 mmol L⁻1) for 20 h. Then, the oxidative stress markers and label-free differential proteome strategy were analyzed to understand the neuroprotective effects of PF. In PC12 cells, PF showed no neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress. In mHippoE-18 cells, PF at 0.01 and 0.001 μg mL⁻1 increased the viability and metabolism of cells against H2O2-induced neurotoxicity, reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Interestingly, PF also exhibited a substantial reduction in baseline ROS levels compared to the control, indicating that PF could have compounds with antioxidant features. The comparative proteomic profiling identified 53 proteins with differential expression related to antioxidant action, catalysis, molecular function regulators, structural molecule activity, translation regulatory activity, ATP, and binding. The PF + H2O2 group indicated that protein expression is 6% upregulated, 4% downregulated, and 94% unchanged compared to the H2O2 group. Three significant proteins upregulated in the PF + H2O2 group, including elongation factor 2 (P58252), proteasome subunit alpha type (E9Q0X0), and E2 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme (A0A338P786), suggested that PF-mediated neuroprotection happens through translational regulation and the degradation of defective proteins via the proteasome complex. Additionally, differential protein expression in PF changed the metabolism, protein synthesis, synaptic activity, and intracellular transport, suggesting that PF contains the rich mixture of bioactive peptides of interest pharmacologically. Overall, this study offers new opportunities for evaluating whether PF’s neuroprotective features in specific neuronal cells are maintained and to investigate neurodegenerative disease drug development processes. Full article
41 pages, 1287 KiB  
Review
The Dual Role of Oxidative Stress in Atherosclerosis and Coronary Artery Disease: Pathological Mechanisms and Diagnostic Potential
by Marcin Myszko, Jerzy Bychowski, Elżbieta Skrzydlewska and Wojciech Łuczaj
Antioxidants 2025, 14(3), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14030275 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 39
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD), with both beneficial and detrimental effects on cardiovascular health. On one hand, the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) contributes to endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and vascular [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD), with both beneficial and detrimental effects on cardiovascular health. On one hand, the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) contributes to endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and vascular remodeling, which are central to the development and progression of CAD. These pathological effects drive key processes such as atherosclerosis, plaque formation, and thrombosis. On the other hand, moderate levels of oxidative stress can have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. These include regulating vascular tone by promoting blood vessel dilation, supporting endothelial function through nitric oxide production, and enhancing the immune response to prevent infections. Additionally, oxidative stress can stimulate cellular adaptation to stress, promote cell survival, and encourage angiogenesis, which helps form new blood vessels to improve blood flow. Oxidative stress also holds promise as a source of biomarkers that could aid in the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of CAD. Specific oxidative markers, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), isoprostanes (isoP), ischemia-modified albumin, and antioxidant enzyme activity, have been identified as potential indicators of disease severity and therapeutic response. This review explores the dual nature of oxidative stress in atherosclerosis and CAD, examining its mechanisms in disease pathogenesis as well as its emerging role in clinical diagnostics and targeted therapies. The future directions for research aimed at harnessing the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of oxidative stress biomarkers are also discussed. Understanding the balance between the detrimental and beneficial effects of oxidative stress could lead to innovative approaches in the prevention and management of CAD. Full article
16 pages, 3616 KiB  
Article
The Protective Effects of Perch Essence Against Muscle Atrophy in Cancer Cachexia and Cisplatin Treatment
by Shu-Lan Yeh, Pei-Yin Chen, Jiunn-Wang Liao, Ruo-Li Huang, Shu-Han Yu, Ling-Ni Chen, Mao-Hsiang Lee, Li-Wen Chen, Haw-Wen Chen, Ya-Chen Yang, Yu-Ling Wu and Kai-Li Liu
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(3), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47030152 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 115
Abstract
Muscle atrophy, through several pathways including increased protein catabolism, leads to adverse effects in cachexia induced by cancer and chemotherapy. Perch essence (PE) is a perch extract rich in branched-chain amino acids and peptides. The present study initially investigated the effects of PE [...] Read more.
Muscle atrophy, through several pathways including increased protein catabolism, leads to adverse effects in cachexia induced by cancer and chemotherapy. Perch essence (PE) is a perch extract rich in branched-chain amino acids and peptides. The present study initially investigated the effects of PE supplementation on muscle atrophy in a mouse model of cancer cachexia induced by C26 cancer cells and compared these effects with those of tryptone. Compared with the tumor-only group, we found that PE supplementation significantly improved body weight, muscle mass, maximum limb grip strength (MLGS), and myosin heavy chain expression in the muscles of tumor-bearing mice. PE also significantly inhibited the expression of factors related to protein degradation, oxidative stress, and inflammation, while enhancing the expression of antioxidant enzymes in tumor-bearing mice. These effects of PE were associated with an increased expression of phosphorylated Akt and forkhead box protein O1, along with a reduced expression of phosphorylated nuclear factor-κB p65 in the muscles of tumor-bearing mice. Furthermore, PE similarly increased MLGS and attenuated muscle atrophy in mice exposed to cisplatin by inhibiting protein degradation. All the therapeutic effects of PE supplementation mentioned above were generally greater than those of tryptone supplementation. These results suggest the potential of PE in protecting against muscle atrophy induced by tumors or chemotherapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Marine Biotechnology and Molecular Biology)
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17 pages, 3233 KiB  
Article
Discovering Skin Anti-Aging Potentials of the Most Abundant Flavone Phytochemical Compound Reported in Siam Violet Pearl, a Medicinal Plant from Thailand by In Silico and In Vitro Assessments
by Chaiyawat Aonsri, Sompop Kuljarusnont and Duangjai Tungmunnithum
Antioxidants 2025, 14(3), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14030272 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 76
Abstract
Currently, nutraceuticals and functional food/cosmeceutical sectors are seeking natural molecules to develop various types of phytopharmaceutical products. Flavonoids have been reported in antioxidant and many medical/pharmacological activities. Monochoria angustifolia or Siam violet pearl medicinal plant is the newest species of the genus Monochoria [...] Read more.
Currently, nutraceuticals and functional food/cosmeceutical sectors are seeking natural molecules to develop various types of phytopharmaceutical products. Flavonoids have been reported in antioxidant and many medical/pharmacological activities. Monochoria angustifolia or Siam violet pearl medicinal plant is the newest species of the genus Monochoria C. Presl, which have long been consumed as food and herbal medicines. Though previous work showed that apigenin-7-O-glucoside is the most abundant antioxidant phytochemical found in this medicinal plant, the report on anti-aging activity is still lacking and needs to be filled in. The objective of this work is to explore anti-aging capacities of the most abundant antioxidant phytochemical reported in this plant using both in silico and in vitro assessments. In addition, pharmacokinetic properties were predicted. Interestingly, the results from both in silico and in vitro analysis showed a similar trend that apigenin-7-O-glucoside is a potential anti-aging agent against three enzymes. The pharmacokinetic properties, such as adsorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET), of this compound are also provided in this work. The current study is also the first report on anti-aging properties of this Thai medicinal plant. However, the safety and efficacy of future developed products from this compound and clinical study should be determined in the future. Full article
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19 pages, 4210 KiB  
Article
Evaluating Physiological and Hormonal Responses of Two Distinct Rice Genotypes Under High Temperatures
by Xiaoyu Qi, Weicai Jin, Wenhao Zhong, Jiatong Han, Muhammad Afzal, Qiang Yue, Guoping Wang and Mehmood Jan
Plants 2025, 14(5), 710; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14050710 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 132
Abstract
Climate change poses a major threat to rice productivity, particularly due to high-temperature stress during anthesis, which severely impacts the grain yield. Understanding the physiological and biochemical responses of different rice genotypes to high-temperature stress is critical for breeding resilient varieties. In this [...] Read more.
Climate change poses a major threat to rice productivity, particularly due to high-temperature stress during anthesis, which severely impacts the grain yield. Understanding the physiological and biochemical responses of different rice genotypes to high-temperature stress is critical for breeding resilient varieties. In this study, we assessed two contrasting rice genotypes, high-temperature-tolerant-1 (HTR-1) and high-temperature-sensitive (HTS-5), to confirm previously established physiological and hormonal mechanisms associated with high-temperature tolerance. The study evaluated morphological, physiological, and biochemical markers at the anthesis stage under control (29/24 °C) and high-temperature stress (38 °C for six hours) conditions. Our results confirmed that HTR-1 exhibits superior tolerance through better antioxidant enzyme activity, higher anther dehiscence, and lower oxidative damage. The genotype HTS-5 exhibited a substantial rise in hydrogen peroxide (1.9-fold) and malondialdehyde (1.74-fold) levels, accompanied by the reduced activity of antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, the high transcript level of cytosolic APX (OsAPX1, OsAPX2), peroxisomal APX (OsAPX3 and OsAPX4), OsCATA, and OsCATB confirmed high antioxidant activity in HTR-1. Moreover, the GA and IAA levels were reduced in both genotypes, while the ABA concentration was increased significantly in the anthers of HTS-5 as compared to those of HTR-1. This suggests that higher ABA production, along with higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the anthers, could lead to sterility in rice under high-temperature scenarios. These findings confirmed HTR-1 as a promising genetic resource for breeding heat-tolerant rice, by validating physiological and biochemical mechanisms of high-temperature resilience. This study also provides practical insights for selecting suitable genotypes to improve rice production under the challenges of climate change. Full article
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28 pages, 7525 KiB  
Review
Mandragora autumnalis Distribution, Phytochemical Characteristics, and Pharmacological Bioactivities
by Ghosoon Albahri, Adnan Badran, Zaher Abdel Baki, Mohamad Alame, Akram Hijazi, Anis Daou, Joelle Edward Mesmar and Elias Baydoun
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(3), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030328 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 179
Abstract
In the Mediterranean and Himalayan regions, the genus Mandragora (family Solanaceae), sometimes called mandrake, is widely utilized in herbal therapy and is well-known for its mythical associations. Objective: To compile up-to-date information on M. autumnalis’s therapeutic properties. Its pharmacological properties and [...] Read more.
In the Mediterranean and Himalayan regions, the genus Mandragora (family Solanaceae), sometimes called mandrake, is widely utilized in herbal therapy and is well-known for its mythical associations. Objective: To compile up-to-date information on M. autumnalis’s therapeutic properties. Its pharmacological properties and phytochemical composition are particularly covered in managing several illnesses, including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Methods: Articles on the review topic were found by searching major scientific literature databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, SciFinder, Chemical Abstracts, and Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Abstracts. Additionally, general online searches were conducted using Google Scholar and Google. The time frame for the search included items released from 1986 to 2023. Results:Mandragora has been shown to contain a variety of phytochemicals, including coumarins, withanolides, and alkaloids. The pharmacological characteristics of M. autumnalis, such as increasing macrophage anti-inflammatory activity, free radicals inhibition, bacterial and fungal growth inhibition, cytotoxic anticancer activities in vivo and in vitro against cancer cell lines, and enzyme-inhibitory properties, are attributed to these phytochemicals. Furthermore, M. autumnalis also inhibits cholinesterase, tyrosinase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and free radicals. On the other hand, metabolic risk factors, including the inhibition of diabetes-causing enzymes and obesity, have been treated using dried ripe berries. Conclusions: Investigations into the pharmacological and phytochemical characteristics of M. autumnalis have revealed that this plant is a rich reservoir of new bioactive substances. This review aims to provide insight into the botanical and ecological characteristics of Mandragora autumnalis, including a summary of its phytochemical components and antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer, enzyme-inhibitory properties, as well as toxicological implications, where its low cytotoxic activity against the normal VERO cell line has been shown. More research on this plant is necessary to ensure its efficacy and safety. Still, it is also necessary to understand the molecular mechanism of action behind the observed effects to clarify its therapeutic potential. Full article
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23 pages, 3202 KiB  
Article
Flavonoids and Saponins from Two Chenopodium Species (C. foliosum Asch. and C. bonus-henricus L.)—Preliminary Evaluation for hMAO-A/B, Neuroprotective Activity, and Validated UHPLC-HRMS Quantification of Ethanolic Extract from C. foliosum
by Magdalena Kondeva-Burdina, Dona Panayotova, Paraskev T. Nedialkov and Zlatina Kokanova-Nedialkova
Molecules 2025, 30(5), 1061; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30051061 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 123
Abstract
The development of more effective treatments for neurodegenerative disorders presents a significant challenge in modern medicine. Currently, scientists are focusing on discovering bioactive compounds from plant sources to prevent and treat neurodegenerative diseases. Fifteen flavonoids and saponins from C. foliosum Asch. and C. [...] Read more.
The development of more effective treatments for neurodegenerative disorders presents a significant challenge in modern medicine. Currently, scientists are focusing on discovering bioactive compounds from plant sources to prevent and treat neurodegenerative diseases. Fifteen flavonoids and saponins from C. foliosum Asch. and C. bonus-henricus L. were tested for their inhibitory activity on hMAO-A and hMAO-B. Five compounds (1 μM) exhibit a weak inhibitory effect on hMAO-A and show good inhibitory activity against the hMAO-B enzyme (30–35%), compared to the positive control selegiline (55%). These active compounds were examined on rat brain synaptosomes and mitochondria obtained by multiple differential centrifugations using a Percoll gradient. Their effects were also monitored on rat brain microsomes obtained by double differential centrifugation. The main parameters characterizing the functional–metabolic status of subcellular fractions are synaptosomal viability, GSH level, and MDA production. All tested compounds (50 μM) demonstrated significant neuroprotective and antioxidant activities across models of induced oxidative stress, including 6-OHDA, t-BuOOH, and Fe2+/AA-induced lipid peroxidation. The plausible mechanisms of neuroprotection rely on MAO-B inhibition, the scavenging of ROS, stabilizing the cell membrane by reducing MDA production, and neutralizing free radicals by maintaining GSH levels. In addition, we developed and validated a UHPLC-HRMS method for identifying and simultaneously quantificatying flavonoids and saponins in the aerial parts of C. foliosum. Compounds 30-normedicagenic acid- HexA-Hex-TA 22f and medicagenic acid-HexA-Hex-TA 25f were considered new natural compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products Chemistry)
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18 pages, 8963 KiB  
Article
Influence of Different Cationic Polymer-Based Micelles on the Corneal Behavior and Anti-Cataract Effect of Diosmetin
by Jing Zhang, Min Zha, Anping Wan, Satya Siva Kishan Yalamarty, Nina Filipczak and Xiang Li
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(3), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17030302 - 25 Feb 2025
Viewed by 105
Abstract
Background Despite many studies on polymer-incorporated nanocarriers for ophthalmic drug delivery, few have thoroughly explored the relationship between coating composition and performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of three commonly used cationic polymers—distearoyl phosphatidylethanolamine-polyethylene glycol 1000-poly(amidoamine) (DSPE-PEG1000-PAMAM), trimethyl chitosan (TMC), and [...] Read more.
Background Despite many studies on polymer-incorporated nanocarriers for ophthalmic drug delivery, few have thoroughly explored the relationship between coating composition and performance. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of three commonly used cationic polymers—distearoyl phosphatidylethanolamine-polyethylene glycol 1000-poly(amidoamine) (DSPE-PEG1000-PAMAM), trimethyl chitosan (TMC), and (2,3-dioleoyloxypropyl) trimethylammonium chloride (DOTAP)—on the corneal behaviors and anti-cataract efficacy of diosmetin (DIO)-loaded micelles (D-M-P, D-M-T, and D-M-D, respectively). Methods The DIO-loaded micelles were prepared using the thin-film dispersion method and incorporated with the three polymers through hydrophobic interactions and electrostatic adsorption. Structural characterization was demonstrated by TEM imaging and particle size analyzer. In vitro release behavior was detected by the dialysis method. Cell viability of D-M-P, D-M-T, and D-M-D on L929 cells was detected by CCK-8 assays, with cellular uptake performed using coumarin 6 as the fluorescence indicator. Precorneal retention behaviors of these three vesicles were observed by In Vivo Imaging System. Transcorneal permeability was determined by modified Franz diffusion method and the permeation routes of the vesicles are investigated. Selenite-induced cataract model was established. The anti-cataract effects of three different DIO-loaded micelles were evaluated by the observation of lens opacity and antioxidant enzyme activities. Eye Irritation of the DIO in different preparations was estimated using the Draize test, along with H&E staining of the corneas. Results Structural characterization of DIO-loaded micelles revealed that the vesicles were spherical, with a uniform size distribution of around 28 nm, a similar surface potential of approximately 6.0 mV, and a high DIO entrapment efficiency of about 95%. Compared to the DIO suspension, all three formulations exhibited a significant sustained-release effect. They showed no signs of irritation and demonstrated increased IC50 values in L929 cells, indicating improved biocompatibility. Cellular uptake in human lens epithelial cells (HLECs) was assessed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. C-M-T displayed the highest fluorescence signals, with a cellular internalization 3.2 times greater than that of the solution group. Both C-M-T and C-M-P enhanced vesicle retention on the corneal surface by at least 47.8% compared to the Cou-6 solution. Furthermore, TMC facilitated the paracellular transport of vesicles into the deepest layers of the cornea and delivered DIO across the cornea, with a Papp value 3.11 times and 1.49 times those of D-M-D and D-M-P, respectively. In terms of therapeutic efficacy, D-M-T demonstrated the most significant attenuation of lens opacity, along with enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Conclusion The modification of micelle vesicles with different cationic polymers significantly influences their performance in ocular drug delivery. Among the tested formulations, D-M-T stands out due to its multiple advantages, including enhanced transcorneal drug delivery, therapeutic efficacy for DIO, and safety, making it the most promising candidate for ophthalmic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer-Based Delivery System)
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18 pages, 2218 KiB  
Article
Physicochemical Properties and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity Characterization of Protein Hydrolysates Obtained from Pumpkin Seeds Using Conventional and Ultrasound-Assisted Enzymatic Hydrolysis
by Ana Flávia Coelho Pacheco, Flaviana Coelho Pacheco, Jeferson Silva Cunha, Gabriela Aparecida Nalon, Jhonathan Valente Ferreira Gusmão, Fábio Ribeiro dos Santos, Irene Andressa, Paulo Henrique Costa Paiva, Alline Artigiani Lima Tribst and Bruno Ricardo de Castro Leite Junior
Foods 2025, 14(5), 782; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14050782 - 25 Feb 2025
Viewed by 115
Abstract
Pumpkin seed proteins (PSPs) are a promising resource for obtaining bioactive peptides but their low solubility hinders enzymatic hydrolysis, reducing yield and bioactivity. In addition, enzymatic processes require specific conditions and long processing times; improving the efficiency of this process is essential to [...] Read more.
Pumpkin seed proteins (PSPs) are a promising resource for obtaining bioactive peptides but their low solubility hinders enzymatic hydrolysis, reducing yield and bioactivity. In addition, enzymatic processes require specific conditions and long processing times; improving the efficiency of this process is essential to expand its industrial applications. In this context, using a high-frequency, low-intensity ultrasound (US) has proven to be an effective strategy for optimizing the hydrolysis of plant protein. This study evaluated the US-assisted (38 W/L, 40 kHz) and conventional hydrolysis of pumpkin seed proteins (PSPs) for 180 min at 25 °C, 40 °C, and at the optimum temperature condition for each enzyme studied (60 °C for Brauzyn®, 55 °C for Flavourzyme®, and 50 °C for Neutrase®), as well as the impact of this process on the macrostructural and functional characteristics of the hydrolysates obtained. The degree of hydrolysis (DH) was significantly higher in US-assisted reactions, reaching increases of up to 57.7% with Neutrase® at 40 °C. The US also positively influenced the protein solubility of the hydrolysates, especially at pH levels close to the isoelectric point, with improvements of up to 100%, compared to the hydrolysates obtained from the conventional reaction. The antioxidant activity was also enhanced by the US, compared to the conventional reaction, emphasizing the hydrolysates obtained through the action of Flavourzyme®, which showed increases of 52.4% and 42.6% in the scavenging of DPPH and ABTS radicals, respectively. The analysis of the mean particle size revealed significant reductions with the US (<26.2%). Consequently, the polydispersity index (PDI) demonstrated greater uniformity in the particles obtained from the US-assisted reactions (reductions of up to 20.3%). UV-Vis spectroscopy and intrinsic fluorescence also indicated possible alterations in the tertiary structure of the peptides obtained, mainly in US-assisted reactions. Therefore, US-assisted PSP hydrolysis resulted in better enzymatic performance and produced protein hydrolysates with bioactive potential for food applications. Full article
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16 pages, 2315 KiB  
Article
Acerola-Derived Photorepair System for Eliminating Ultraviolet-Induced Pyrimidine Dimers in Human Cells
by Mamoru Yanagimachi, Tomohiro Umezu, Masakatsu Takanashi, Yoshiki Murakami, Takahiro Ochiya and Masahiko Kuroda
Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 792; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050792 - 25 Feb 2025
Viewed by 79
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Ultraviolet B (UV-B) is a significant risk factor for skin damage, as it induces cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD), which suppress DNA replication and transcription. Photolyase (PHR) is a blue light-dependent enzyme that repairs DNA damage caused by UV irradiation. While it [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Ultraviolet B (UV-B) is a significant risk factor for skin damage, as it induces cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD), which suppress DNA replication and transcription. Photolyase (PHR) is a blue light-dependent enzyme that repairs DNA damage caused by UV irradiation. While it is absent in human, it plays a crucial role in repairing CPD in other organisms. Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC), a fruit with high antioxidant content, is widely consumed for health benefits. This study aimed to identify a novel PHR in acerola and evaluate its photorepair activity. Methods: Using RNA-seq data, we cloned the full-length sequence of the acerola PHR gene and constructed an expression vector. A stable transfected HEK293 cell line (HEK293/acPHR) was established. CPD repair activity was analyzed under blue light in these cells, as well as in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) supplemented with extracellular vesicles (EVs) from HEK293/acPHR cells and extracellular vesicle-like nanoparticles derived from acerola extract. Results: Blue light-dependent CPD reduction was observed in HEK293/acPHR cells compared to control cells following UV-B irradiation. Additionally, CPD repair activity was demonstrated in NHDFs and HEK293 cells treated with EVs from HEK293/acPHR cells and nanoparticles from acerola extract. Conclusions: Acerola-derived PHR exhibits the potential to repair UV-induced DNA damage in human cells. Furthermore, EV-mediated delivery of PHR provides a promising avenue for extending photorepair capabilities to other cells. These findings highlight the potential applications of acerola PHR in the prevention and treatment of UV-induced skin damage and related conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Nutrition on Skin, Hair and Nail Conditions)
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19 pages, 3898 KiB  
Article
Cardioprotective Effects of Ferulic Acid Through Inhibition of Advanced Glycation End Products in Diabetic Rats with Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Infarction
by Sarah Ouda Bekheit, Eman Kolieb, El-Sayed E. El-Awady, Maha Abdullah Alwaili, Afaf Alharthi and Dina M. Khodeer
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(3), 319; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030319 - 25 Feb 2025
Viewed by 78
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Myocardial infarction (MI) and diabetes pose significant health challenges globally, necessitating the development of innovative medication strategies to improve outcomes in affected populations. This research aimed to determine the defensive impact of ferulic acid (FA) against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction (MI) in diabetic [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Myocardial infarction (MI) and diabetes pose significant health challenges globally, necessitating the development of innovative medication strategies to improve outcomes in affected populations. This research aimed to determine the defensive impact of ferulic acid (FA) against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction (MI) in diabetic rats. Methods: A group of male rats was partitioned into five distinct groups: control group, diabetic group, diabetic + MI, diabetic + MI + 20 mg/kg FA, and diabetic + MI + 40 mg/kg FA. The experimental groups received isoproterenol (ISO) subcutaneously at a dosage of 50 mg/kg body weight for two consecutive days. Results: The outcome was severe cardiac toxicity, as shown by changes in electrocardiogram (ECG) rhythm and a substantial increase in blood cardiac enzymes such as creatinine kinase (CK-MB), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Additionally, there was a surge in inflammatory cytokines, like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and a disruption of the antioxidant system, evidenced by a rise in malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Moreover, there was a rise in cardiac receptor of advanced glycation end products (RAGE). Treatment with FA with escalating dosages of 20 and 40 mg/kg b.w. effectively mitigated changes in serum cardiac enzymes and improved the cellular architecture, which was evaluated by histopathological examination. Conclusions: In conclusion, in a dose-dependent manner, FA successfully showed a cardioprotective effect against ISO-induced cardiac toxicity in diabetic rats, as shown by the improvement in ECG findings, normalization of serum cardiac biomarkers, and augmentation of the endogenous antioxidant system. Therefore, the aforementioned data indicate that ferulic acid may potentially have a protective effect on MI patients who have diabetes mellitus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)
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13 pages, 3828 KiB  
Article
Cucurbita ficifolia Rootstock Enhances Resistance to Low-Temperature Stress in Cucumber
by Haojun Xiao, Wenxin Deng, Bilal Ahmad, Chunmei Guo, Songmei Shi, Shuilian He and Zheng’an Yang
Horticulturae 2025, 11(3), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11030242 - 25 Feb 2025
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Abstract
Cucumber cultivation suffers from severe yield and quality decline due to cold damage. Cucurbita ficifolia is used as a rootstock for grafting cucumber to improve resistance due to its excellent resistance. This study used Yunnan C. ficifolia as the rootstock and Jingyan Xiamei [...] Read more.
Cucumber cultivation suffers from severe yield and quality decline due to cold damage. Cucurbita ficifolia is used as a rootstock for grafting cucumber to improve resistance due to its excellent resistance. This study used Yunnan C. ficifolia as the rootstock and Jingyan Xiamei 2 cucumber as the scion, simulating common low-temperature stress of 15 °C, 10 °C, and 5 °C in an artificial climate chamber, to study the mechanism of cucumber-grafted seedlings responding to low temperatures in terms of growth and development, photosynthesis, osmotic regulation substances, antioxidant system, and gene expression. The results showed that the growth and development of grafted seedlings of C. ficifolia was less inhibited, the chlorophyll content was less reduced, and the content of osmoregulatory substances was significantly increased under low-temperature stress. The activity of antioxidant enzymes in grafted seedlings of C. ficifolia was significantly upregulated at low temperatures, and the expression of antioxidant enzyme genes was consistently higher in grafted seedlings of C. ficifolia. These results confirmed that C. ficifolia as a rootstock could improve the cold resistance of cucumber. Collectively, this study provides the basis for revealing the physiological and molecular mechanism of grafting seedlings to improve cucumber’s low temperature tolerance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Compounds in Horticultural Plants—2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 3420 KiB  
Article
Changes of Catalase and Peroxidase Activity and Expression Under Cold Stress in Prunus persica Cultivars with Different Cold Tolerances
by Ekaterina Vodiasova, Elina Chelebieva, Ekaterina Kladchenko, Oksana Grebennikova, Victoria Uppe, Valentina Tsiupka, Sergey Dolgov and Anatoly Smykov
Agronomy 2025, 15(3), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030556 - 25 Feb 2025
Viewed by 138
Abstract
Peach is one of the most common stone fruit crops, but it is also the most thermophilic. One of the main problems in peach cultivation is frost up to −8 °C in spring during pollen development, budding, and flowering. The adaptation of the [...] Read more.
Peach is one of the most common stone fruit crops, but it is also the most thermophilic. One of the main problems in peach cultivation is frost up to −8 °C in spring during pollen development, budding, and flowering. The adaptation of the plant to low temperatures could be related to the activation of the antioxidant system under cold stress. The aim of this work was to test the hypothesis of distinct adaptation mechanisms to cold stress in Prunus persica L. cultivars with various cold tolerances. The difference between this study and the previous ones is that previously, only contrasting varieties (resistant and sensitive) were studied. For the first time, we studied the effect of cold stress on cold-resistant varieties but with different degrees of resistance, such as “Loadel” and “Springold” (medium resistant) and “Podarok Like” and “Temisovskij” (highly resistant). The experiment was designed to simulate the effects of short-term cold snaps, which are a common occurrence during February and March in the south of Crimea. A series of tests were conducted on annual shoots that were frozen at −12 °C. The activity and gene expression of two major antioxidant enzymes, catalase and peroxidase, were studied by spectrophotometry and RT-qPCR, respectively. The experiment showed that these enzymes responded differently to cold stress in varieties with different cold tolerances. Catalase responded similarly in all four varieties. After frost, there was an increase in activity (7-fold in “Temisovskij” and 3-fold in “Podarok Like”) and a decrease in expression. In contrast to catalase, peroxidase showed an opposite response to cold stress in medium-tolerant and highly tolerant cultivars. Peroxidase activity after exposure to low temperatures increased in highly tolerant cultivars (1.5-fold in “Temisovskij”), while it decreased in medium-tolerant cultivars (1.5–2 fold in “Springold” and “Loadel”, respectively). The change in peroxidase expression was the opposite. It decreased in highly resistant varieties and increased in medium-resistant varieties. Thus, our results revealed the opposite response of one of the major antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase) in moderately resistant and highly resistant cultivars. The data obtained show that varieties with a high degree of resistance could have other adaptation mechanisms involved, which may be useful for selecting resistant varieties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Ecophysiology Under Anthropogenic and Natural Stresses)
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