The Impact of High-Value Compounds from Agri-Food and Waste Sources on Cellular Metabolism

Dear Colleagues,

The plant world represents a source of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and essential micronutrients, but it is a precious source of numerous compounds with high biological value called “phytochemical substances”. These phytochemicals are represented in particular by phenols, terpenes, terpenoids, alkaloids, purines, pyrimidines, nucleic acids, steroids, etc. They possess multiple biological activities, which include antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer, antidiarrheal, antihypertensive, antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemic and cardioprotective properties. Epidemiological studies have established that diets rich in phytochemicals help prevent many pathologies (cancer, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases) due to their biological activities. Phytochemicals, which are derived from the production processes of the agri-food industry, offer significant applicative prospects regarding the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals. Furthermore, the recovery of these bioactive compounds from waste biomass and food processing residues using green technologies enhances the sustainability and circularity of the food production system. This Special Issue aims to provide an overview of the immense therapeutic potential of these natural substances, their safety for health, and an enhanced understanding of the metabolic pathways, particularly considering the unique historical period we live in. In order to develop fresh and creative therapeutic methods, we particularly welcome the submission of original publications and reviews that elucidate the molecular interactions between known or unknown natural substances and the cellular metabolism in both health and disease.

Dr. Anna Spagnoletta
Dr. Salvatore Nesci
Dr. Francesca Oppedisano
Guest Editors

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• phytochemicals
• agri-food waste
• nutraceutical
• cell metabolism
• mitochondria
• antioxidants
• ROS
• anti-cancer