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Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition

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A special issue of Pharmaceuticals (ISSN 1424-8247). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural Products".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 October 2026 | Viewed by 14753

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Dejan Stojković

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Mycological Laboratory, Department of Plant Physiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Interests: pathogenic fungi; mushrooms; mycomedicines; natural products; dermatomycetes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Marina Soković

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Mycological Laboratory, Department of Plant Physiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Interests: microfungi; macrofungi; antibacterial activity; antifungal activity; natural products
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Medicinal plants represent a valuable source of chemicals with potential therapeutic properties. They are widely used in traditional medicine as supportive therapeutics for various conditions and diseases. In recent years, there have been extensive studies in the area of medicinal plant research dealing with their various pharmacological effects. Novel research on this subject is necessary, since this is an emerging and rather interesting domain. Many in vitro studies describe the beneficial effects of plants for human health, highlighting promising pharmacological effects.

This Special Issue will cover the biological activity of medicinal plants and isolated compounds. Screening natural preparations for their biological activities is of prime importance, since natural raw materials represent an excellent source of pharmaceuticals with a wide variety of different biologically active chemical structures. If your research addresses plant mixtures, please visit the following link to find out more information about submitting your manuscript:

https://www.mdpi.com/journal/pharmaceuticals/instructions#mixtures

The scope of this Special Issue includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Chemical characterization of natural preparations;
Therapeutic potential of natural matrices in cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases;
Antimicrobial activity;
Antioxidant activity;
Anti-enzymatic activity;
Anti-inflammatory activity;
Mechanism of pharmacological actions;
Structure–activity relationship studies.

Dr. Dejan Stojković
Dr. Marina Soković
Guest Editors

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Pharmaceuticals is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

chemical characterization of natural preparations
therapeutic potential of natural matrices in cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases
antimicrobial activity
antioxidant activity
anti-enzymatic activity
anti-inflammatory activity
mechanism of pharmacological actions
structure–activity relationship studies

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15 pages, 1816 KB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Baobab Fruit Extracts in TNF-α/IFN-γ-Stimulated HaCaT Keratinocytes with LC–MS/MS and HPLC Profiling

by Shi-Heon Kang, Soon Yeong Park, Hoon Kim and Sanghyun Lee

Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(4), 639; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19040639 - 18 Apr 2026

Viewed by 292

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Atopic dermatitis (AD)-related skin inflammation involves the release of cytokines and chemokines from keratinocytes; therefore, keratinocyte-based models are widely used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory potential of botanical extracts. This study examined the relationship between phytochemical profiles and anti-inflammatory potential of baobab fruit 30% and 70% ethanol extracts (BE-30 and BE-70, respectively) in a TNF-α/IFN-γ (TI)-stimulated HaCaT keratinocyte model. Methods: The anti-inflammatory effects of both extracts were evaluated by measuring cytokine and chemokine secretion in TI-stimulated HaCaT cells. Phytochemical characterization was performed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and targeted high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results: Both extracts were non-cytotoxic. TI-stimulation markedly increased interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8 and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1 secretion, while BE-30 and BE-70 significantly reduced all three mediators in a dose-dependent manner. At comparable doses, BE-70 exhibited greater inhibition than BE-30. BE-30 showed a non-monotonic IL-8 response at low concentrations, whereas BE-70 consistently reduced IL-8 in a dose-dependent manner. LC–MS/MS profiling revealed a polyphenol-rich composition, including flavonol glycosides and related phenolic compounds. HPLC confirmed the presence of four marker analytes (procyanidin B2, epicatechin, rutin and tiliroside), which were enriched in BE-70. The content of these four polyphenols was 1.94-fold higher in BE-70. Conclusions: Baobab fruit extracts exhibit anti-inflammatory activity associated with polyphenols. These findings suggest that they could be used as analytical standards and in dermatological applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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24 pages, 564 KB

Open AccessArticle

Flavonoid Composition and Molecular Basis of the Potential Sexual-Enhancing Properties of a Turnera diffusa Extract (Liboost^®)

by Iván Benito-Vázquez, María Inés Morán-Valero, Marina Díez-Municio and Adal Mena-García

Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(4), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19040597 - 8 Apr 2026

Viewed by 605

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Sexual dysfunction is a prevalent and multifactorial condition affecting a large proportion of the global population, with limited therapeutic options beyond pharmacological approaches primarily targeting erectile dysfunction. This has increased interest in botanical supplements for sexual health, although mechanistic evidence and clear links between phytochemical composition and biological activity remain scarce. The present study provides an integrative evaluation of a commercial Turnera diffusa extract (Liboost^®) formulated to support sexual health by combining detailed phytochemical characterization with targeted in vitro mechanistic assays. Methods: The extract was characterized by HPLC-DAD-HRMS, enabling the identification and semi-quantification of its major constituents. A total of 49 compounds were detected, predominantly flavonoids, including luteolin- and apigenin-derived glycosides, flavonols, methoxyflavones, flavanones, and coumaroyl derivatives, with a total quantified flavonoid content of 15.9 mg·g⁻¹. Biological activity was evaluated in human cell models without cytotoxic effects at the tested concentrations. Results: Liboost^® significantly reduced PDE5 expression, inhibited aromatase activity, and moderately increased nitric oxide production. These complementary effects suggest a multi-target modulation of pathways involved in sexual function, integrating vascular, endocrine, and nitrergic mechanisms. Conclusions: Although limited to in vitro models, the findings provide mechanistic support for the biological activity of T. diffusa extracts and highlight the importance of linking phytochemical composition with functional evidence when evaluating botanical supplements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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19 pages, 1535 KB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Evaluation of the Anticancer and Pharmacological Activities of Eucomis comosa (Houtt.) H.R. Wehrh.

by Thando Bhanisa, Siphamandla Qhubekani Njabuliso Lamula, Anathi Dambuza, Martha Wium, Juliano Domiraci Paccez, Luiz Fernando Zerbini, Callistus Bvenura and Lisa Valencia Buwa-Komoreng

Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(1), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19010104 - 7 Jan 2026

Viewed by 690

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The global fight against cancer persists despite advances in prevention and treatment. The current study investigated the phytochemical constituents, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties of Eucomis comosa, traditionally used in South Africa to treat elephantiasis and cancer-related conditions. Methods: Phytochemical screening, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analyses were conducted. Antioxidant activity was measured through DPPH and nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging assays. The anticancer activity was assessed using the MTT assay. Results: Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids, flavonoids, saponins, and phlobatannins. FTIR analysis of the aqueous extract displayed characteristic peaks at 3278.92 cm⁻¹ for O–H stretch, at 2930.67 cm⁻¹ for C–H stretch, at 1623.97 cm⁻¹ for C=O stretch, 1410.24 cm⁻¹ for C=C stretch and at 931.17 cm⁻¹ for =C–H, while LC-MS identified diverse metabolites, including polyphenols such as flavan-3-ols, flavone glycosides, and chalcones. Among the extracts, methanol showed the strongest DPPH scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 972.73 µg/mL), followed by ethanol (1296.36 µg/mL). For NO scavenging, methanol again outperformed ethanol, with IC₅₀ values of 1301 µg/mL and 2890 µg/mL, respectively. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrated that the ethanol extract completely inhibited cell growth at concentrations of 100 and 200 µg/mL. Methanol, ethanol, and hexane extracts significantly suppressed cell proliferation in DU-145, PC-3, and SKU-T-1 cancer cell lines at higher concentrations, with IC₅₀ values ranging between 0.2 and 2.5 µg/mL. Conclusions: These findings indicate that the phytochemicals and functional groups present in E. comosa extracts contribute to their dose-dependent antioxidant and anticancer activities, supporting their ethnomedicinal use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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21 pages, 3428 KB

Open AccessArticle

Thymoquinone Overcomes Hypoxia-Induced Carboplatin Resistance Through ROS-Independent Apoptosis but Promotes Cancer Stem Cell Enrichment: Implications on Oral Cancer Adaptation and Recurrence

by Ishrat Rahman, Hanan Henidi, Manal M. Alkahtani, Zaha Al Makhlafi, Sahar ElRefai, Manal A. AlSheddi, Rizwan Ali, Sara K. Albassam, Hazar S. Alharbi, Maha G. Omar, Hend M. Salem, Alia Alturki, Hourya Alnofaie, Arwa Alharbi, Nuha Aloraini, Reema Alswied, Samaa Almutairi, Joud Alshahrani, Reem Fahad Alsuwaidan, Shrooq Alqahtani, Aalia Alharthi, Hadeel Alzahrani, Raghad Alkhattabi and Shams A. Altwaim Show full author list Hide full author list

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(11), 1758; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18111758 - 18 Nov 2025

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Abstract

Background: Carboplatin is a first-line chemotherapy agent for patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), but chemoresistance significantly impacts treatment outcomes. This study evaluated the ability of thymoquinone, a natural metabolite found in food products, to modulate cytotoxicity, ROS, apoptosis, autophagy, and cancer stem cell markers in early- and late-stage OSCC cell models to identify mechanisms of chemoresistance and determine the influence of dietary metabolites on treatment outcomes. Methods: OECM-1 cells were treated with concentrations (1 mM to 1 pM) of thymoquinone, carboplatin, or their combination under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. HIF-1α levels were measured using ELISA, and cytotoxicity was assessed by the MTT assay. ROS, apoptosis, autophagy, and cell surface markers (CD44+, CD133+, CD147+) were evaluated. All experiments were repeated three times, and the data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism. Under hypoxia, HIF-1α increased 12-fold. Results: Carboplatin demonstrated reduced potency (110 μM) and efficacy (40%) compared to normoxia (82 μM, 88%), accompanied by increased apoptosis (75%) and decreased ROS (25%). Thymoquinone was more potent than carboplatin, further reducing ROS (50%), increasing apoptosis (95%), and downregulating autophagy, while the proportion of CD133+ expressing cells increased significantly (75%) in the hypoxic model. For the combined treatment across both models, thymoquinones’ efficacy remained high (>90%). Between models, no further change in any parameter was observed, except for apoptosis induction, which increased to 65% (normoxia) and 50% (hypoxia). Conclusions: Thymoquinones’ superior efficacy under hypoxic conditions demonstrates ROS-independent cytotoxic mechanisms; however, the enrichment of CD133+ cells raises essential questions about long-term therapeutic outcomes and the risks of tumor recurrence. Natural pharmaceutical metabolites can influence the tumor microenvironment, which is highly implicated in cancer therapeutics and cancer adaptation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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31 pages, 8190 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable MnO₂/MgO Bimetallic Nanoparticles Capped with Sword Fern Methanol Extract Attain Antioxidant/Anti-Biofilm Potential: A UPLC-ESI/LC/MS and Network Pharmacology-Supported Study

by Esraa A. Elhawary, Raya Soltane, Mohamed H. Moustafa, Amer Morsy Abdelaziz, Mohamed A. Said and Eman Maher Zahran

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(9), 1262; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18091262 - 25 Aug 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1952

Abstract

Background: Nephrolepis exaltata (sword fern) possesses a considerable amount of phytochemicals and different biological activities. The current study investigates the anti-biofilm potential of greenly synthesized bimetallic nanoparticles of Nephrolepis exaltata leaf methanol extract (NEME-MnO₂-MgO BNPs). Methods: The NEME was subjected to UPLC/MS analysis, followed by characterization of its NPs by size, zeta potential, FTIR, entrapment efficiency, and release. Then, antioxidant, antimicrobial and antibiofilm assays were employed, followed by in silico studies. Results: The UPLC/MS analysis of NEME led to the tentative identification of 27 metabolites, mostly phenolics. The MnO₂-MgO BNPs presented a uniform size and distribution and exhibited IC₅₀ values of 350 and 215.6 μg/mL, in the DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. Moreover, the NPs exhibited antimicrobial and anti-biofilm efficacies against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia (ATCC-9633), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC-6538), Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, and C. albicans, with MIC values of 250–500 μg/mL. The MnO₂-MgO BNPs inhibited Candida albicans biofilms with a % inhibition of 66.83 ± 2.45% at 1/2 MIC. The network pharmacology highlighted epigallocatechin and hyperoside to be the major compounds responsible for the anti-biofilm potential. The ASKCOS facilitated the prediction of the redox transformations that occurred in the green synthesis, while the docking analysis revealed enhanced binding affinities of the oxidized forms of both compounds towards the outer membrane porin OprD of P. aeruginosa, with binding scores of −4.6547 and −5.7701 kcal/mol., respectively. Conclusions: The greenly synthesized Nephrolepis exaltata bimetallic nanoparticles may provide a promising, eco-friendly, and sustainable source for antimicrobial agents of natural origin with potential biofilm inhibition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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50 pages, 6557 KB

Open AccessArticle

Gastroprotective, Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Toxicological Evaluation of Stem Bark Extracts of Vitellaria paradoxa and Parkia biglobosa

by Brice Dangnon, Durand Dah-Nouvlessounon, S. M. Ismaël Hoteyi, Haziz Sina, Justinian Andrei Tomescu, Kouassi Jean-Michel Akpo, Maxime Machioud Sangare-Oumar, Adolphe Adjanohoun, Olubukola Oluranti Babalola, Emanuel Vamanu and Lamine Baba-Moussa

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1184; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081184 - 11 Aug 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2196

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Oxidative stress is a pathophysiological factor that causes challenging issues in the treatment of several diseases, including gastric ulcer, inflammatory diseases, and adenocarcinomas. V. paradoxa and P. biglobosa are African plants whose parts are used for treating diseases, including gastrointestinal pathologies. This study aimed to characterize the gastroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of V. paradoxa and P. biglobosa stem bark extracts based on various solvents. Methods: The phytochemical screening and antioxidant evaluation were performed using radical scavenging (ABTS and DPPH) and reduction (FRAP and APM) methods. The anti-inflammatory activity was performed through an egg albumin denaturation model. The toxicological evaluation was performed on Artemia salina and female Wistar rat models, and the gastroprotective activity was carried out on an ethanolic-induced gastric ulcer rat model. Results: The results reported that V. paradoxa stem bark extracts contain catechin, epicatechin, ferulic acid, apigenin-7-gluc, and hesperidin, while P. biglobosa bark contains chlorogenic acid, catechin, caffeine, epicatechin, and cichoric acid. In the DPPH assay, the lowest scavenging capacities were 1.8 ± 0.21 mmol AAE/mg of dry extract (V. paradoxa, 97% ethanol) and 11.43 ± 0.208 mmol AAE/mg of dry extract (P. biglobosa, 50% ethanol). Similarly, for ABTS, the lowest scavenging capacities were 0.9726 ± 0.03952 mmol AAE/mg of dry extract (V. paradoxa, methanol with 1% HCl) and 1.3 mmol AAE/mg of dry extract (P. biglobosa, 97% ethanol), indicating strong antioxidant capacity. In the FRAP assay, both species reached a maximum reducing power of 2.39 mMol AAE/mg of dry extract (methanolic extract for V. paradoxa; methanol + 1% HCl for P. biglobosa). For APM, the 97% ethanolic extracts again showed the highest total antioxidant capacities: 31.78 ± 1.481 mMol AAE/mg (V. paradoxa) and 31.21 ± 0.852 mMol AAE/mg (P. biglobosa). The stem bark extracts of both V. paradoxa and P. biglobosa were revealed to be harmless in the Artemia salina as well as the rat model. The extracts of V. paradoxa as well as P. biglobosa exerted a stronger gastroprotective effect than omeprazole, a commonly used reference molecule. Conclusions: These extracts, rich in compounds exhibiting strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gastroprotective activities, surpassed omeprazole in ulcer protection in rat models. Their safety was confirmed in both Artemia salina and rodent assays. Future studies will explore their immunomodulatory, antiproliferative activities in vitro and in vivo and, specifically, the efficacy of isolated compounds in gastric adenocarcinoma models to assess these plants’ anticancer potential and elucidate their underlying mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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18 pages, 2151 KB

Open AccessArticle

Polyphenol Profile and Biological Activity of the Extracts from Sideritis scardica Griseb. (Lamiaceae) Herb

by Magdalena Walasek-Janusz, Krzysztof Kamil Wojtanowski, Rafał Papliński, Agnieszka Grzegorczyk and Renata Nurzyńska-Wierdak

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(8), 1121; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18081121 - 27 Jul 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1737

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The beneficial and multifaceted effects of Sideritis scardica Griseb. extracts are attributed to the presence of polyphenolic compounds, particularly phenolic acids. Methods: The research was carried out for S. scardica herb of different origins (Albania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Türkiye). Identification of compounds was performed using the HPLC/ESI-QTOF-MS method; phenolic acids and flavonoids were determined spectrophotometrically. The antioxidant activity of methanol extracts from studied herbs was determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu, DPPH, and FRAP methods, and the antimicrobial activity was evaluated using the broth microdilution method in accordance with the guidelines of the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST). Results: We demonstrated the presence 18–20 active compounds, depending on the origin of the raw material, with verbascoside being the predominant compound in all samples. The raw material was characterized by significant polyphenol content and high antioxidant activity. DPPH tests revealed the highest antioxidant activity, ranging from 86.5% to 87.9%, in samples from Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Türkiye, and the latter showed the strongest antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-positive pathogens and Candida spp. Conclusions: This research is the first report comparing the chemical composition and biological activity of S. scardica raw material of different origins. Our findings indicate that S. scardica herb extracts have significant phytotherapeutic potential, although this varies depending on the origin of the raw material, and point to the need for further research on this plant material, particularly in terms of the level of active compounds and their possible synergistic effects with conventional drugs, as well as the need for standardization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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Open AccessArticle

Unveiling the Antioxidant Power and Secondary Metabolites of Tabebuia chrysantha (Jacq.) Leaves and Flowers from Ecuador

by Raluca A. Mihai, Ramiro Fernando Vivanco Gonzaga, Nelson Santiago Cubi Insuaste, Nilo Rigoberto Maza Morocho and Rodica D. Catana

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(5), 649; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18050649 - 29 Apr 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1316

Abstract

Background: Tabebuia chrysantha (Jacq.) Nichols, commonly known as Guayacan, is a prominent species within the Bignoniaceae family known for its medicinal value and ecological significance. This study aimed to characterize the antioxidant capacity and secondary metabolite composition of Guayacan leaves and flowers grown in Ecuador, a region where its chemical profile remains unexplored. Methods: Comprehensive analyses were conducted to determine the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity using ABTS, DPPH, FRAP assays, and LC-MS. Results: The results revealed remarkable differences between mature leaves and flowers. Leaves exhibited consistently higher flavonoid levels (e.g., 0.280 ± 0.005 mg QE/g DW) and superior antioxidant capacity across all assays (e.g., 10.84 ± 0.51 µmol Trolox g⁻¹ DW in ABTS) compared to flowers, which showed greater variability but lower overall activity. These findings highlight a functional specialization, with leaves synthesizing more flavonoids to mitigate oxidative stress from environmental factors such as UV radiation. LC-MS analysis unveiled various bioactive compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenoids. Unique metabolites like α-lipoamide in leaves and oleanolic acid in flowers suggest distinct adaptive roles, potentially linked to stress tolerance and reproductive functions. Additionally, strong correlations among antioxidant assays (e.g., FRAP vs. DPPH, r = 0.993, p < 0.001) emphasize the pivotal role of phenolics and flavonoids in free radical scavenging and reduction mechanisms. Conclusions: The findings of this study demonstrate the superior antioxidant capacity of leaves, driven by their higher accumulation of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. This research represents a foundational step toward uncovering the therapeutic potential of Ecuadorian Guayacan as a source of natural antioxidants and bioactive compounds, supporting its future applications in phytotherapy and drug development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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23 pages, 3615 KB

Open AccessArticle

Lipophilic Extracts of Portulaca oleracea L.: Analysis of Bioactive Fatty Acids Targeting Microbial and Cancer Pathways

by Dejan Stojković, Jelena Živković, Stefani Bolevich, Gokhan Zengin, Mehmet Veysi Cetiz, Sergey Bolevich and Marina Soković

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(4), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18040587 - 17 Apr 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2271

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Portulaca oleracea L. (purslane) is a widely distributed plant known for its medicinal and nutritional properties. This study aims to evaluate the fatty acid composition and bioactivities of crude lipophilic extracts (chloroform/methanol 2:1) from purslane collected in Serbia and Greece, with a focus on its antimicrobial and anticancer potential. Methods: Chemical analysis was conducted to determine the fatty acid composition of the extracts. Antibacterial activity was assessed using standard microdilution assays, while antibiofilm assays evaluated the extracts’ ability to inhibit biofilm formation. Cytotoxicity was tested on cancer cell lines (MCF7, HeLa, CaCo2, HepG2) and normal keratinocyte cells (HaCaT). Molecular docking and dynamics simulations were performed to explore the interactions of bioactive fatty acids with microbial and cancer-related proteins. Results: The analysis revealed significant levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, with linoleic acid as the predominant fatty acid in both samples (31.42% and 34.51%). The Greek extract exhibited stronger antibacterial activity than the Serbian extract, particularly against Aspergillus versicolor, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. Antibiofilm assays showed up to 89.54% destruction at MIC levels, with notable reductions in exopolysaccharide and extracellular DNA production, especially for Greek samples. Cytotoxicity testing indicated moderate effects on cancer cell lines (IC₅₀ = 178.17–397.31 µg/mL) while being non-toxic to keratinocytes. Molecular docking identified strong interactions between key fatty acids and microbial and cancer-related proteins. Conclusions: These results highlight purslane’s potential as a source of bioactive compounds, particularly in antimicrobial and anticancer applications. The findings suggest that purslane extracts could be developed for therapeutic purposes targeting microbial infections and cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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17 pages, 1870 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mixture Containing 5% Polysaccharide Extract of Cerioporus squamosus (Huds.) Quélet, 5% Dexpanthenol, and 0.2% Hyaluronic Acid Shows In Vitro and In Vivo Wound Healing Properties

by Jovana D. Petrović, Tamara A. Carević Milićević, Jasmina M. Glamočlija, Jelena B. Kulaš and Ivana I. Mirkov

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(3), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030416 - 15 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1810

Abstract

Background: This study explores wound healing and the antimicrobial potential of a natural formulation containing a polysaccharide extract from Cerioporus squamosus, hyaluronic acid, and dexpanthenol. Methods: Wound healing effects were assessed using HaCaT keratinocytes, while antimicrobial activity was evaluated against human skin pathogens using a microdilution assay. In vitro cytotoxicity tests ensured formulation safety, whereas in vivo wound healing was further investigated using an animal model. Gene expression analysis was performed to assess the molecular mechanisms involved. Results: The unique glucan composition of C. squamosus (15.38% α-glucans and 7.91% β-glucans) deviated from typical mushroom polysaccharide profiles, warranting further exploration of its bioactivity. In vitro mushroom polysaccharides promoted 25.35% wound closure after 24 hours, while the three-component formulation achieved 35.81% closure. Antibacterial activity showed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.44–1.75 mg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBCs) of 0.88–3.50 mg/mL, while antifungal activity ranged from 0.22 to 0.44 mg/mL (MICs) and 0.44 to 0.88 mg/mL (minimum fungicidal concentration—MFC). In vivo data showed that 60% of treated wounds fully closed by day 11, despite no statistically significant difference from the control. However, gene expression analysis highlighted VEGF and collagen upregulation, indicating an enhancement of wound healing on a molecular level. Conclusions: The novel three-component formulation demonstrated consistent wound healing and antimicrobial properties, supporting its potential as a safe and effective treatment for chronic and acute wounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Pharmacons: Biologically Active Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals—4th Edition)

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