Search Results (844)

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has exposed the urgency of research on rapid and efficient virus detection and strategies to inhibit its replication. Previous studies have mostly focused on traditional immunoassay or optical methods, but they have limitations in terms of sensitivity, timeliness, and in-depth analysis of molecular interaction mechanisms. Solid-state nanopore single-molecule detection methods, which can monitor molecular conditions in real time at the single-molecule level, bring new opportunities to solve this problem. The nucleocapsid protein (N protein) of SARS-CoV-2 was systematically investigated under different conditions, such as external drive voltage, pH, nanopore size, and N protein concentration. The translocation of the N protein through the nanopore was then analyzed. Subsequently, we analyzed the translocation characteristics of the N protein, RNA, and N protein–RNA complexes. With the aid of EMSA experiments, we conclusively confirmed that RNA binds to the N protein. Building on this finding, we further explored small molecules that could affect the nanopore translocation of N protein–RNA complexes, such as gallocatechin gallate (GCG), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and the influenza A viral inhibitor Nucleozin. The results show that GCG can disrupt the liquid-phase condensation of the N protein–RNA complex and inhibit the replication of the N protein. Meanwhile, the structural isomer EGCG of GCG and the small molecule Nucleozin can also block RNA-triggered N protein liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS). Our results confirmed that GCG, EGCG, and Nucleozin exhibit antagonistic effects on the N protein, with differences in their effective concentrations and the potency of their antagonism. Herein, using solid-state nanopore single-molecule detection technology, we developed an experimental method that can effectively detect RNA-induced changes in N protein properties and the regulatory effects of small molecules on the LLPS of N protein–RNA complexes. These findings not only provide highly valuable insights for in-depth research on the molecular interactions involved in viral replication, but also open up promising new avenues for future responses to similar viral outbreaks, the development of a rapid and effective detection method based on solid-state nanopores and single-molecule detection, and antiviral therapies targeting N protein–RNA interactions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Allergic diseases are highly prevalent worldwide and represent a significant public health burden. Current therapies mainly alleviate symptoms without addressing underlying immune dysfunction, which has increased interest in nutritional bioactive compounds as preventive or modulatory agents. This review summarizes evidence on omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamin D, curcumin, ginger bioactives, quercetin, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in allergy prevention and management. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to July 2025, including preclinical and clinical studies reporting immunological, mechanistic, and clinical outcomes. Results: Omega-3 fatty acids modulate Th2 responses, promote regulatory T cells, and generate specialized pro-resolving mediators, with modest clinical benefits observed in pregnancy and early life. Vitamin D contributes to immune tolerance and epithelial integrity, although supplementation trials remain heterogeneous. Curcumin inhibits NF-κB/MAPK signaling, enhances barrier function, and improves allergic rhinitis and dermatitis despite limited bioavailability. Ginger constituents ([6]-gingerol, [6]-shogaol) modulate Th1/Th2 balance, mast-cell activity, and oxidative stress, with early clinical evidence in rhinitis and asthma. Quercetin stabilizes mast cells, inhibits Lyn/PLCγ pathways, and improves rhinitis symptoms in small randomized trials using bioavailable formulations. EGCG stabilizes mast cells, attenuates FcεRI signaling, and reduces airway inflammation in preclinical models, though clinical data are scarce. Conclusions: Overall, preclinical findings consistently support the immunomodulatory potential of these compounds, while clinical results are promising but heterogeneous. Standardized formulations, long-term trials, and exploration of synergistic effects are required to confirm efficacy and safety, providing future research directions in allergy prevention. Full article

Background: Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a potent green tea polyphenol, possesses significant therapeutic potential, but its clinical application is limited by poor gastrointestinal stability and low oral bioavailability. To address this, a novel herbal nanomedicine-based delivery system was developed utilizing D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) and Poloxamer 407. Objectives: This study aims to develop and characterize EGCG-loaded TPGS/Poloxamer 407 micelles, evaluating their physicochemical properties, storage stability, in vitro drug release profile, in vivo oral bioavailability, and preliminary tolerability observation. Methods: The micelles were prepared using the film hydration method followed by lyophilization. Results: The optimized 2:2 TPGS-to-poloxamer 407 weight ratio yielded EGCG-loaded micelles, displaying a mean particle size of 15.4 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.16, a zeta potential of −17.7 mV, an encapsulation efficiency of 82.7%, and a drug loading capacity of 7.6%. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) was determined to be 0.00125% w/v. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the micelles’ uniform spherical morphology. In vitro release studies demonstrated a sustained release profile in both simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. EGCG formulation remained stable for at least six months when stored at 4 °C. No adverse clinical signs were noted during the 28-day tolerability observation. In vivo pharmacokinetic evaluation in mice revealed a significant elevation in oral bioavailability, achieving a 2.27-fold increase in area under the curve (AUC) and a 1.8-fold increase in peak plasma concentration (Cmax) compared to free EGCG. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings underscore the potential of the TPGS/poloxamer 407-based micelle system as a promising oral delivery platform for EGCG, enhancing its stability and pharmacokinetic performance. Full article

The global burden of heart failure (HF) continues to escalate, with a lifetime risk approaching one in four adults in the United States. Concurrently, advances in cancer therapeutics have created a burgeoning population of long-term survivors, who now face the significant morbidity and mortality of chemotherapy-induced cardiovascular disease (CVD). This review addresses the critical overlap of these two pathologies, which share fundamental drivers such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the most abundant and biologically active polyphenol in green tea, has demonstrated pleiotropic bioactivity in preclinical models, encompassing potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. The central aim of this review is to provide a critical and comprehensive synthesis of the evidence supporting EGCG’s dual protective role. This review dissects its molecular mechanisms in modulating key pathways in HF and cardio-oncology, evaluates its translational potential, and importantly, delineates the significant gaps that must be addressed for its clinical application. This analysis uniquely positions EGCG not merely as a nutraceutical, but as a multi-target molecular therapeutic capable of simultaneously addressing the convergent pathological cascades of heart failure and cancer-related cardiotoxicity. The synthesis of preclinical evidence with a critical analysis of its translational barriers offers a novel perspective and a strategic roadmap for future research. Full article

The imbalance of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS), characterized by the overactivation of the pro-tumor ACE/AngII/AT1R axis, is closely linked to tumor growth, angiogenesis, metastasis, and poor prognosis. Natural polyphenols, such as EGCG and resveratrol, exert anti-cancer effects by dual-regulating RAS: they inhibit the pro-tumor axis by blocking renin, ACE activity, and AT1R expression, while simultaneously activating the protective ACE2/Ang(1-7)/MasR axis. Furthermore, polyphenols and their autoxidation products (e.g., EAOP) modify thiol-containing transmembrane proteins (such as ADAM17 and integrins) and interact with RAS components, further disrupting oncogenic pathways (including MAPK and PI3K/Akt/mTOR) to induce apoptosis, suppress invasion, and reduce oxidative stress. Notably, EAOP exhibits stronger RAS-modulating efficacy than its parent polyphenols. However, challenges such as low bioavailability, insufficient targeting, and limited clinical evidence impede their application. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the anti-cancer mechanisms of polyphenols through RAS regulation, discusses the associated challenges, and proposes potential solutions (including nanodelivery and structural modification) and strategies to advance natural product-based adjuvant treatments. Full article

Epidemiological studies have provided evidence to show that the consumption of coffee and green tea has beneficial effects against cancer. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) in coffee and epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) in tea are involved in these effects. Research also suggests that the anticancer effects of coffee and tea may vary depending on the type of cancer, although the reasons for this remain unclear. As bioactive food factors, CGA and EGCG can contribute to epigenetic modification to exert their anticancer activity. One of the anticancer mechanisms is the one associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS). CGA and EGCG possess activities that initiate anticancer pathways by down-regulating ROS and NF-κB, and up-regulating AMPK. CGA and EGCG can regulate non-coding RNAs, including cancer-associated microRNAs. This review provides updated information on how CGA and EGCG exhibit anticancer activity via ROS-dependent anticancer pathways by regulating microRNA expression. Full article

The retention of polyphenols in thermally processed noodles is constrained by interactions with starch and glutenin, critically impacting functional properties (antioxidant activity, starch digestibility modulation) and quality attributes. Current understanding lacks quantitative links between initial pomace particle size, polyphenol behavior throughout processing, and the resulting noodle properties. This study systematically investigated how Rosa roxburghii pomace particle size (0.1–250 μm), fractionated into five ranges, governs polyphenol extractability, retention in fresh/boiled noodles, and their functional and quality outcomes. Mathematical modeling established quantitative particle size–property relationships. The results indicated that polyphenol release was maximized at the 1–10 μm particle size. Total phenolic retention in boiled noodles was highest with 0.1–1 μm pomace, while the retention of specific phenolics peaked with 60–80 μm pomace. Fresh noodle hardness and gumminess decreased significantly, particularly with extracts from 1 to 40 μm pomace, whereas boiled noodles showed increased chewiness/adhesiveness. All polyphenol-enriched noodles exhibited suppressed starch digestibility and enhanced antioxidant capacity. Robust quadratic regression models predicted key properties based on particle size. Molecular interactions (hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic contacts, π–cation stacking, salt bridges) between key phenolics (EGCG, hydroxybenzoic acid, gallic acid, quercetin, and isoquercitrin) and the gluten–starch matrix, critically involving residues Arg-86 and Arg-649, were identified as the underlying mechanism. These results demonstrate that precise control of pomace particle size regulates extract composition and molecular binding dynamics, providing a strategic approach to optimize functional noodle design. Full article

Background: Dry Eye Disease (DED) is a multifactorial ocular disorder characterized by tear film instability, inflammation, oxidative stress, and ocular surface damage. Current therapeutic options often provide only temporary relief and are limited by poor patient compliance and inadequate drug retention at the ocular surface. Aim: This review aims to critically analyze the therapeutic potential of polyphenols and their nanoencapsulated formulations for the management of DED, focusing on pharmacological mechanisms, formulation strategies, and translational implications. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases using combinations of the following keywords: “dry eye disease,” “polyphenols,” “antioxidants,” “nanocarriers,” “ocular delivery,” and “bioavailability.” Studies published in English from 2000 to 2024 were considered. Inclusion criteria encompassed experimental, preclinical, and clinical studies evaluating polyphenol-based formulations for ocular application, while reviews without original data or studies unrelated to DED were excluded. Results: The analysis identified EGCG, curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin as the most extensively investigated polyphenols, exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective activities through modulation of cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and immune signaling pathways. Nanoformulations such as lipid nanoparticles, micelles, and cyclodextrin complexes improved solubility, stability, ocular retention, and bioavailability, leading to enhanced therapeutic efficacy in preclinical DED models. Conclusions and Future Perspectives: Polyphenol-loaded nanocarriers represent a promising approach for improving the management of DED by enhancing local drug delivery and sustained release. However, further clinical studies are needed to assess long-term safety, scalability, and regulatory feasibility. Future research should focus on optimizing formulation reproducibility and exploring personalized nanotherapeutic strategies to overcome interindividual variability in treatment response. Full article

Aged green tea leaves, particularly from Shan Tuyet trees, represent an underutilized source of catechins—key antioxidant compounds with known health benefits. This study aims to optimize and compare three green extraction methods—Hot Water Extraction (HWE), Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE), and Ethanol–Water Extraction (EthE)—for catechin recovery from mature tea leaves. A Box–Behnken design (BBD) under Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to evaluate the effects of different extraction conditions. Total catechin content was quantified by HPLC, and antioxidant activities were measured using DPPH, FRAP, ORAC, and cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) assays. Results showed that while UAE and HWE produced total catechin yields of 206.0 mg/g and 202.0 mg/g, respectively, their biological efficacy was profoundly different. HWE, operating at a higher temperature (82 °C), induced significant thermal degradation, evidenced by high levels of catechin epimerization (EGCG/GCG ratio = 3.62) and hydrolysis. This loss of structural integrity resulted in the lowest cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) of 98.3 µmol QE/g. In contrast, the optimized UAE process (78 °C, 55 min, 290 W) preserved catechin stereochemistry (EGCG/GCG ratio = 9.86), yielding the highest CAA (185.2 µmol QE/g). These findings demonstrate that UAE acts as the optimal green strategy for producing high-yield, functionally superior extracts from mature tea leaves. Full article

To reduce the environmental impact of plastic packaging in the fruit supply chain, this study developed an edible natural CH-CS-EGCG coating (collagen hydrolysate-chitosan-epigallocatechin gallate) for mango preservation. The coating was prepared using an optimized CH:CS mass ratio of 1:4 with 3 wt% EGCG, exhibiting enhanced mechanical properties and low water vapor permeability. SEM and FT-IR analyses confirmed the successful incorporation of EGCG into the CH-CS matrix through hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic interactions, and electrostatic forces. The CH-CS-EGCG coating demonstrated superior antioxidant activity: its ABTS radical scavenging capacity and DPPH scavenging capacity were 234% and 422% higher, respectively, than those of the CH-CS coating. It also effectively inhibited bacterial growth, achieving a 92% inhibition rate against Staphylococcus aureus after 24 h of incubation. When applied to mango preservation, the CH-CS-EGCG coating significantly slowed down fruit decay and deterioration, extending the shelf life by 6 days. The CH-CS-EGCG coating offers a promising eco-friendly alternative for fruit preservation, broadening the applications of EGCG and advancing research in edible coatings. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases are leading comorbidities n individuals with Down syndrome (DS). Although clinically well described, preclinical models fully characterizing these cardiopulmonary alterations are lacking. Our objective is to characterize the cardiopulmonary and immunological phenotype in a commonly used DS mouse model, the Ts65Dn mice, and investigate the modulatory effects of green tea extract enriched in epigallocatechin-3-gallate (GTE-EGCG); Methods: Treatment started at embryonic day 9 and continued until postnatal day (PD) 180. Mice were longitudinally monitored using micro-computed tomography, and structural, functional, and immunological alterations were evaluated at PD210 to determine the persistent effects of GTE-EGCG administration; Results: Ts65Dn mice displayed normal structural lung development and presented with right ventricular hypertrophy and reduced B-cell lymphocytes, indicating that this model may find applications in immunological respiratory research specific to the context of DS. GTE-EGCG administration induced transient lung immaturity, persistent decreases in lung function, and airway hyperreactivity, while normalizing arterial and right ventricular morphology and partially restoring B-cell lymphocyte numbers; Conclusions: These findings underscore the dual nature of EGCG modulation, both beneficial and adverse, and highlight the importance of a multiorgan, holistic approach when evaluating therapeutic interventions in DS models. Full article

Stelechocarpus burahol (kepel) is valued for its aromatic fruits and medicinal leaves, yet its genomic and phytochemical features remain poorly characterized. This study estimated the nuclear DNA content of kepel leaves at 3.96 pg per haploid genome (genome size: 3873 Mbp) and comprehensively profiled their bioactive metabolites. Leaf extracts prepared with water and 70% ethanol, with or without pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment, were analyzed using HPLC-MS, UHPLC-QTOF-MS, HPLC-DAD, and GC-MS. Leaf extracts showed the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents, with PEF markedly improving ethanolic extraction efficiency. A total of 72 phenolics, 2 tocopherols, 3 tocotrienols, and several novel vitamin E derivatives were detected, alongside abundant catechins, tannic acid, and gallic acid. PEF significantly enhanced catechin recovery: catechin (C) increased from 153.7 to 846.8 mg/g and epicatechin (EC) from 338.2 to 921.4 mg/g in water extracts, while ethanolic extracts rose from 335.3 to 905.1 mg/g (C) and 245.0 to 616.9 mg/g (EC). Epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG), absent in untreated leaves, reached 799.9 mg/g in water and 231.9 mg/g in ethanol extracts after PEF. In fruits, PEF reduced phenolic recovery in water extracts (C: 236.7 → 136.8 mg/g; EC: 135.4 → 118.2 mg/g; EGCG: 2892.2 mg/g → undetectable), but slightly improved ethanolic extracts (C: 237.8 → 289.4 mg/g). GC-MS identified 19 volatile compounds contributing to the fruit’s aroma. This work provides the first integrated report of kepel genome size and phytochemical composition, highlighting PEF as a promising strategy to enhance leaf catechin extraction and supporting kepel’s potential as a functional food and medicinal resource. Full article

Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides in agricultural, horticultural, and urban environments. However, its residue accumulation and oxidative damage pose serious threats to crop health and food safety. In this study, we evaluated the potential of epigallocatechin gallate, a natural polyphenol derived from tea, to alleviate glyphosate-induced stress in melon (Cucumis melo L.). LC-MS/MS analysis revealed that EGCG significantly reduced glyphosate residues in plant tissues. Transcriptome analysis indicated that glyphosate induced extensive transcriptional reprogramming, activating genes involved in detoxification and antioxidant defense. Co-treatment with glyphosate and EGCG partially mitigated this stress response and redirected gene expression toward secondary metabolic pathways, particularly flavonoid and phenylalanine biosynthesis. Under herbicide stress, EGCG restored the transcription of key flavonoid biosynthetic genes, including PAL, C4H, CHI, and OMT. Meanwhile, EGCG also modulated the expression of APX, SOD, and GST, suggesting a selective effect on antioxidant systems. Co-expression network analysis identified key hub genes associated with oxidative stress and flavonoid metabolism. These findings demonstrate the dual regulatory role of EGCG in suppressing acute oxidative stress while enhancing metabolic adaptability, highlighting its potential as a natural additive for reducing herbicide residues in fruit crops. Full article

Kalanchoe pinnata, commonly known as the “miracle plant” or “life plant”, is a succulent species traditionally used for various health conditions. Recent research investigations have intensified interest in this species due to its diverse repertoire of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, alkaloids, triterpenes, and glycosides. These compounds have been associated with multiple therapeutic effects, notably antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities. Although several studies have highlighted the positive effects of the extracts of K. pinnata on key factors contributing to the pathophysiology and complications of diabetes mellitus, a systematic overview focusing on the use of these extracts and their bioactive constituents in the management of the disease is lacking. This literature review summarizes the phytochemical composition, traditional uses, and recent scientific data supporting the antidiabetic potential of K. pinnata, with a particular focus on its effects on glycemic control, as well as inflammatory and oxidative homeostasis, toxicity, safety, and potential clinical implications. The phytochemical constituents discussed include quercetin, kaempferol, apigenin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), avicularin, and bufadienolides, along with a presentation of representative structures. The review also covers the potential mechanisms of action in diabetes mellitus. The survey of available literature highlights the effects of K. pinnata on indices of diabetes mellitus, including enhancing insulin sensitivity, mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation, lowering blood glucose levels, and the potential adverse effects. These results point to the promising prospect for K. pinnata use in the management of diabetes mellitus and its associated complications, while underscoring the need for more rigorous investigations, including well-controlled clinical trials. Full article

Polyphenol oxidases (PPOs) are enzymes that oxidize mono- and diphenolic compounds to o-quinones, facilitating pigment formation and protein crosslinking in food systems, thereby improving their techno-functional properties. However, most PPOs function optimally near neutral pH, limiting their application in acidic food products. This study aimed to extract acid-adapted PPOs from various fruit by-products, including Hass avocado seeds (pH 5.9), Anjou pears (pH 4.0), Bartlett pears (pH 4.0), Red Delicious apples (pH 4.0), and McIntosh apples (pH 3.3), and characterize PPO properties and its substrate specificity using colorimetric assay. SDS-PAGE was used to assess PPOs’ molecular weight and PPOs’ capacity for plant protein crosslinking. The results showed that PPOs from Anjou and Bartlett pear pomace exhibited the most robust acid-adapted activity, with effective catalytic performance in the pH ranges of 4.0–5.0 and 5.0–8.0, respectively, and an optimal temperature of 20 °C. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed bands at ~44 kDa and ~25.6 kDa, consistent with previously found pear PPO isoforms. Both pear pomace PPO oxidized L-DOPA and EGCG efficiently, but showed minimal activity toward L-tyrosine, gallic acid, caffeic acid, tannic acid, and ferulic acid. In the presence of EGCG, both pear pomace PPOs are capable of crosslinking plant proteins at pH 4.0. These findings provide the first evidence that agricultural by-products are a promising but underutilized source of acid-adapted PPO for modifying soy protein hydrolysates. Full article