Search Results (4,715)

Mistletoe species grow hemiparasitically on a wide spectrum of trees occurring in the tropical, subtropical and temperate zones. Mistletoe has been associated with fertility, vitality and fatality in humans. In the present review, we examine articles published in English and/or with the option to translate them into English on the distribution mechanism, ecological impact and value. This study aimed to interrogate and outline the phytonutrient profiling, ethnomedicinal and ethnopharmacological applications, toxicology and quality control of mistletoes, particularly the Loranthaceae and Viscaceae families. There are at least 1400 species of mistletoe belonging to these two families across the world. Humans have used mistletoe for years, and it has a rich history, mainly in traditional medicine. Recent research interests accompanied by investigations on mistletoe have made a major contribution to our understanding of the survival behavior and mechanisms of the species. This has prompted researchers to intensively investigate and justify its potential and applications in traditional medicine systems to further incorporate it into conventional scientific medicine processes. This study thoroughly outlines the nutritional and phytochemical constituents of various mistletoe species, as well as the factors that play a role in the process. The sections in this study dedicated to elaborating on the nutritional and phytochemical composition of mistletoe show that it is a plant species rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds, especially compared to its host. Its survival mechanism makes it possible for this plant species to contain significant quantities of both nutrients (proximate components and mineral elements) and bioactive compounds (viscin, alkaloids, phenolics and polyphenolics, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides, and saponins). Overall, mistletoe species have potential as medicinal plants, offering a range of health benefits and the ability to treat ailments (both communicable and non-communicable diseases). However, there are insufficient investigations and records of mistletoe’s toxicity, safety and quality control. Therefore, it is important to further investigate the potential applications, mechanisms of action, and optimal uses of mistletoe preparations and/or extracts. Full article

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation into specialized cell types, which play an important role in maintaining homeostasis and tissue regeneration in humans. The effectiveness of MSCs depends largely on their immunomodulatory properties and ability to regenerate damaged tissues. Biological activity of MSCs is modulated by environmental factors, including dietary components such as vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals which influence their proliferation, aging, inflammatory response and resistance to oxidative stress. The article aims to highlight the importance of micronutrients and phytochemicals in modulating the MSCs’ performance and therapeutic potential, with a focus on the role of bioactive food components in regulating metabolism, regenerative efficacy and protective mechanisms of stem cells. Vitamins and trace elements are essential for antioxidant protection by eliminating reactive oxygen species, maintaining mitochondrial function and preserving cell viability under stressful conditions. Micronutrients and phytochemicals can modulate the immunomodulatory activity of MSCs by altering the cytokine secretion profile, reducing pro-inflammatory mediators while enhancing anti-inflammatory factors. However, both deficiency and excessively high concentrations of natural compounds can impair stem cell function. Interdisciplinary knowledge about the impact of micronutrients on the functioning of mesenchymal stem cells creates new opportunities in personalized medicine and nutrition. Understanding the mechanisms regulating MSCs activity under the influence of diet components may contribute to the development of individualized therapeutic strategies aimed at supporting tissue regeneration, delaying aging processes, and improving the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. This knowledge is applicable in the design of functional foods and dietary supplements, making it particularly valuable for specialists in personalized nutrition and functional food development. Full article

Radioprotective agents derived from natural food sources represent promising candidates for reducing the harmful effects of ionizing radiation and supporting healthy aging. In this study, we investigated the effects of selected micronized bioactive compounds and their mixes on DNA damage response pathways in human retinal epithelial cells (hTERT-RPE1). Individual compounds and their combinations were applied to cultured cells, and the expression of IER5, a radiation-inducible gene associated with DNA repair and cell survival, was evaluated, showing that most potent compound to be lycopene and quercetin. Thus, in the next step, commonly consumed foods available on the Czech market rich in moth—tomato and garlic—were analyzed for their antioxidant capacity. The results revealed marked variability in antioxidant potential among food sources, with specific cultivars exhibiting significantly higher values. Importantly, experimental mixtures of pure and micronized compounds demonstrated distinct and sometimes opposing effects on IER5 expression. These findings indicate that the radioprotective activity of dietary antioxidants depends not only on the properties of individual compounds but also on their specific combinations. Our study provides evidence that phytochemicals such as quercetin, lycopene, but also partially resveratrol and curcumin can modulate DNA-repair-associated pathways and underscores their potential as combinatory agents in strategies aimed at promoting genomic stability and potentially healthy aging. Full article

The utilization of post-production and post-processing by-products aligns with current trends in sustainable fruit industry practices. Recovering valuable nutrients from such materials holds significant potential for the food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors. Among these, cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) seeds represent a promising source of functional ingredients, particularly due to their oil’s rich nutritional and phytochemical profile. The seeds, accounting for approximately 9–10% of the fruit mass, yield an oil characterized by high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids—mainly linoleic acid (≈67.5%) and oleic acid (≈20%)—alongside palmitic (≈5.8%) and stearic acids (≈2.1%). Linolenic acid content, however, shows notable variability (1.4–14.7%), influencing the oil’s omega-6/omega-3 ratio, which generally remains below 5:1. Cornelian cherry seed oil stands out among other stone fruit oils (e.g., rosehip, apricot, peach, cherry, plum) for its favorable fatty acid composition and absence of cyanogenic glycosides, making it safe for human consumption. Beyond its nutritional value, this oil exhibits biological activity and health-promoting potential, suggesting wide applicability in functional foods and nutraceutical formulations. Despite progress in characterizing seed composition—including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, minerals, and tannins—knowledge gaps persist regarding the transfer of these compounds into the oil, particularly under cold-pressing conditions. Future studies should focus on optimizing extraction processes, assessing thermal treatment effects, and clarifying the variability of linolenic acid. Such research will support the sustainable exploitation of cornelian cherry by-products and the industrial-scale development of this high-value oil. Full article

Melia azedarach L. (Meliaceae) exhibits potential as a source of bioactive antibacterial compounds. In this study, the effect of solvent polarity on ultrasound-assisted extraction of M. azedarach leaves and twigs was evaluated in relation to their phytochemical composition and antibacterial activity against both non-resistant and multidrug-resistant bacteria. The results showed that solvent polarity significantly affected the extraction yield, with methanol and water producing yields above 10%. The methanol extracts of twigs and leaves exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity, showing greater potency against Escherichia coli than Bacillus subtilis. Consistent with these findings, the methanol extracts inhibited the growth of multidrug-resistant enteropathogenic E. coli K1-1, resulting in inhibition zone diameters of 10.93 mm (leaf) and 7.73 mm (twig). Furthermore, the methanol extract contained the highest levels of phenolic, flavonoid, and hydroxyl-rich compounds, which were associated with its antibacterial properties. In silico analysis further revealed that isofucosterol, meliasenin, and melianone exhibited strong predicted binding affinities to key antibacterial proteins, particularly those involved in multidrug-resistant bacterial mechanisms. Full article

The natural phenolic compound p-coumaric acid supports honey bee health by enhancing detoxification, immunity and longevity. It also possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties relevant to human health. While commonly detected in honey and pollen, it is absent from nectar and sucrose-based supplements typically used in beekeeping. Concerns have been raised whether supplemental saccharide feeding deprives bees of this essential phytochemical. In this study, we quantified p-coumaric acid in various bee-derived products and in supplementary sucrose syrup before and after feeding to bees, using HPLC-HRMS analysis. Although fresh sucrose syrup contained negligible amounts of p-coumaric acid, syrup stored in capped combs exhibited levels comparable to or higher than those in honey. We identified propolis in combs as the primary source of p-coumaric acid, diffusing into both honey and sucrose syrup during storage. Our findings demonstrate that supplemental feeding with sucrose syrup does not diminish the bees’ access to this key phytochemical and underscore the importance of a propolis-rich environment in bee health management. Full article

The large-scale cultivation of medicinal plants generates substantial agricultural by-products that are often discarded. A notable example is the floral biomass of Bupleurum chinense DC. (B. chinense), which is routinely removed during cultivation to promote root yield. To explore the potential valorization of these discarded tissues, we performed an integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of flavonoid biosynthesis across three developmental stages: F1 (Initial Flowering Stage), F2 (Full Bloom Stage), and F3 (Late Flowering Stage). Our results revealed distinct stage-specific regulatory dynamics. Flavonoid biosynthesis was initiated at F1 through the activation of upstream structural genes, reached its peak at F2 with strong up-regulation of branch-specific genes and the accumulation of diverse flavonols and anthocyanins, and declined at F3, despite the sustained presence of several antioxidant metabolites. These findings indicate that F2 represents the optimal stage for harvesting B. chinense flowers to obtain a broad spectrum of bioactive flavonoids, while late-stage flowers may serve as a complementary source of stable antioxidant compounds. Collectively, this study highlights the potential for transforming discarded floral biomass into valuable phytochemical resources and provides a framework for exploring underutilized tissues in other medicinal plants. Full article

Helichrysum species (Asteraceae) are renowned for their diverse phytochemical profiles and traditional medicinal applications. Among their specialized metabolites, phloroglucinol-α-pyrone derivatives represent a structurally unique and pharmacologically significant class of compounds. This review consolidates over five decades of phytochemical research, documenting 52 distinct compounds isolated from 11 Helichrysum species across the Mediterranean, African, and Iranian regions. The compounds are organized into structural subclasses, including monopyrones, dipyrones, and various phloroglucinol derivatives distinguished by their molecular scaffolds. Isolation yields reported in the literature range from trace amounts to relatively abundant constituents (0.48% w/w), with arzanol emerging as the most extensively studied compound. Bioactivity profiles reveal anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiparasitic properties, with arzanol demonstrating potent dual inhibition of mPGES-1 and 5-LOX. This review provides comprehensive reference data for future investigations into the chemistry and therapeutic potential of α-pyrone secondary metabolites from Helichrysum species. Full article

Gleichenella pectinata, known as ‘Star fern’, is a species traditionally used by Amazonian indigenous communities to treat various diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate the bioactive compounds and antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities of G. pectinata leaves. The study included the determination of physicochemical parameters (pH, soluble solids, titratable acidity, moisture, and ash), phytochemical screening, mineral analysis by atomic absorption and quantification of bioactive compounds (vitamin C, organic acids, carotenoids, chlorophylls, and phenols) by liquid chromatography (RRLC). Antioxidant (ABTS and DPPH), antimicrobial (ATCC bacteria and fungi, and multi-resistant strains), antitumor and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated. The results showed the presence of acetogenins, high concentrations of malic acid (56,559.7 mg/100 g DW), β-carotene (266.6 mg/100 g DW), chlorophyll b (684.7 mg/100 g DW), ferulic acid (3163.5 mg/100 g DW) and quercetin glucoside (945.9 mg/100 g DW). The freeze-dried ethanolic extracts showed greater efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC (12.0 mg/mL) and multidrug-resistant strains of E. coli (6.6 mg/mL) and P. aeruginosa (6.6 mg/mL). In addition, the extract exhibited moderate antiproliferative activity (IC₅₀: 0.98–1.98 mg/mL) in hepatocellular and cervical carcinoma cell lines. In conclusion, this study provides the first evidence of the antitumor and bioactive potential of G. pectinata, supporting its value as a natural source of functional compounds with potential pharmacological applications. Full article

Background: Antibiotic drug resistance is a serious global health problem that threatens therapeutics against infectious diseases. As antibiotics become less effective every year, our objective was to evaluate the adjuvant activity of methanolic extracts of Moringa oleifera seed combined with antibiotics of clinical use against multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli isolated from street food samples searching for a new alternative to treat infectious diseases commonly treated with antibiotics. Methods: Secondary metabolites of M. oleifera seeds were obtained through maceration (methanol 80%) and detected following qualitative phytochemical assays. MIC, MBC and tolerance level were determined using microdilution tests. Antimicrobial activity was tested by sensitivity analysis, and the adjuvant activity was explored in combination with twelve antibiotics against the E. coli samples. Results: Alkaloids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and polyphenols were detected. MIC and MBC values ranged from 31.3 to 62 mg/mL and 62–125 mg/mL, respectively. The extract showed low antimicrobial activity against the multidrug-resistant E. coli, but the inhibitory capacity of ampicillin, cephalexin, and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid was significantly increased when combined with the plant extract. In contrast, the activity of ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, tetracycline, polymyxin, and nalidixic acid decreased with the extract. Conclusion: Methanolic extracts of M. oleifera seeds represent a potential adjuvant for beta-lactams in the face of the growing problem of global antimicrobial resistance. This study represents the first steps in exploring the adjuvant capacity of plants against resistant environmental pathogens in Mexico. Full article

Andean berry (Vaccinium meridionale Swartz) is a species of berry mostly exclusive to the Andean ecosystems, mainly present in Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, and Jamaica, where it grows between 2000 and 3000 m.a.s.l. Although most of the fruit is harvested naturally, limited fruit production significantly restricts large-scale farming and sales. Most research on phytochemicals from this berry has focused on polyphenolic compounds, particularly anthocyanins such as cyanidin-3-O-galactoside and delphinidin-3-O-hexoside. These compounds have significant antioxidant potential and require appropriate post-harvest handling to preserve their stability and biological functionality. A systematic literature search was conducted covering studies from January 2000 to January 2025 across Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Evidence from original research includes chemical analyses, in vitro biological activity, in vivo effects in animal models, and clinical studies. Although findings suggest antiproliferative, chemoprotective, and cardioprotective properties, current evidence remains largely preclinical, and clinical validation is urgently needed. Despite its promise, challenges persist in standardizing cultivation, scaling production, and optimizing post-harvest. The berry has been incorporated into food products, but further research is essential to support its transition from experimental use to validated clinical applications. Full article

Oxalis corniculata L. (O. corniculata) has attracted increasing attention as a natural source of antioxidants with diverse pharmacological potential. Phytochemical studies have identified a diverse spectrum of metabolites, dominated by flavonoids, polysaccharides, and organic acids. These compounds exhibit antioxidant properties as well as related biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, hypoglycemic, and anticancer effects. Its long-standing use in traditional remedies, along with its incorporation into approved Chinese patent medicines, underscores its safety and translational value. This review synthesizes recent advances in the chemical composition, bioactivities, and molecular mechanisms of O. corniculata, emphasizing its antioxidant-driven pharmacological prospects. The review highlights O. corniculata as a sustainable and accessible botanical resource with significant potential for the development of pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and health-promoting applications. Full article

Medicinal plants are widely used in traditional medicine because of their bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. The semidesert Mexican species Flourensia cernua, Artemisia ludoviciana, and Phoradendron californicum have been traditionally employed as infusions for gastrointestinal disorders. In this study, chemical composition, infusion extraction, phytochemical profiling, antioxidant capacity, and antiparasitic and antibacterial activity were evaluated. The extracts were characterized via HPLC–MS, encapsulated in agar–agar beads, and subjected to in vitro simulated digestion. A. ludoviciana presented the highest content of hydrolysable and condensed tannins (5473.33 ± 305.5 mg GAE/100 g; 959.58 ± 14.6 mg CE/100 g, respectively). F. cernua presented the highest flavonoid concentration (582.67 ± 16.90 mg CE/100 g). The highest antioxidant activity was observed in P. californicum (IC₅₀ 74.18 ± 18.43 μg TE/mL in DPPH; IC₅₀ 333.38 ± 56.36 μg TE/mL in ABTS). In terms of antiparasitic effects, A. ludoviciana extracts presented the lowest IC₅₀ value (0.51 ± 0.01 mg/mL), indicating the highest antiparasitic activity. Antibacterial assays revealed that F. cernua had the greatest inhibitory effect on E. coli (79.60%) and S. aureus (78.40%). Encapsulation preserved extract integrity, although simulated digestion resulted in limited compound release, with hydrolysable tannins being the most released. Overall, P. californicum presented the strongest antioxidant response, and encapsulation was confirmed as an effective strategy to preserve extract integrity. Full article

Essential oils (EOs) from aromatic plants are valuable sources of bioactive compounds with potential applications as natural antimicrobials and antioxidants. This study investigated the chemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, and in silico pharmacological properties of EOs extracted from Laurus nobilis, Thymbra capitata, and Mentha piperita, three medicinal species traditionally used in northern Morocco. Hydrodistillation yielded 1.12–1.53% oils, and GC–MS analysis revealed distinct chemotypes: L. nobilis was rich in eucalyptol, linalool, methyleugenol, and α-terpinyl acetate; T. capitata was dominated by carvacrol (80.95%), and M. piperita contained high proportions of linalool (57.37%) and linalyl acetate (28.56%). Antimicrobial assays demonstrated strong activity of all oils against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as Candida species, with T. capitata showing the most potent and broad-spectrum effects (MIC 0.073–9.47 mg/mL), attributed to its high carvacrol content. Antioxidant assays (DPPH and ferric reducing power) identified L. nobilis as the most active radical scavenger (IC₅₀ = 0.037 mg/mL), followed by T. capitata, whereas M. piperita displayed weaker activity. PCA confirmed that phenolic monoterpenes drive both antimicrobial and antioxidant potency, while oxygenated terpenes and sesquiterpenes contribute more selectively. ADMET predictions indicated generally favorable absorption and low toxicity, although o-cymene and carvacrol presented potential safety concerns. Molecular docking revealed α-terpinyl acetate as the most versatile ligand, with strong binding to bacterial, fungal, and oxidative enzymes, whereas other compounds exhibited more selective affinities. Collectively, these findings highlight the potential of Moroccan EOs, particularly T. capitata and L. nobilis, as promising natural alternatives to synthetic antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. Full article

Cancer remains a persistent global health challenge, continuously driving the search for novel and effective therapeutic strategies. In the case of breast cancer, treatment decisions are primarily guided by factors such as the disease stage, histological grade, molecular receptor status, and the presence of genetic mutations. Understanding these parameters is crucial for tailoring interventions and improving clinical outcomes. To enhance prognostic and diagnostic accuracy, attention has increasingly turned to identifying molecular targets that play key roles in breast cancer development. Currently, standard treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. However, these approaches are often associated with significant side effects and a diminished quality of life. As a result, many breast cancer patients are turning to complementary therapies—including phytotherapy, nutritional interventions, and dietary supplements—to support conventional treatment, alleviate adverse effects, and improve overall well-being. Within the vast realm of medicinal flora, anticancer plants represent a compelling area of study, serving as a rich reservoir of bioactive compounds. These compounds have demonstrated significant promise in the ongoing battle against cancer. Often highlighted in traditional medicinal practices, these plants harbor a wide array of phytochemicals, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, and terpenoids. These phytochemicals manifest diverse biological activities, notably exhibiting pronounced anticancer properties. The exploration of these natural compounds has opened new avenues for developing innovative and targeted therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment. They achieve definitive chemotherapeutic and chemopreventive roles by integrating with specific molecular signals. Their multiple biological functions include antimutagenic, antiproliferative, antimetastatic, anti-angiogenesis, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, which collectively enable them to control cancer progression and intervene at various stages of cancer cell development. Moreover, these compounds are involved in regulating the cell cycle and microRNA, ultimately leading to cancer cell death by promoting apoptosis and autophagy, often mediated through ROS signaling. Thus, based on a large theoretical revision, we conclude that high-quality evidence is necessary in order to advise these products concerning their efficacy and safety. Also, clinical evidence should be supported by a comprehensive individual diagnosis and adequate research protocols in order to evaluate whether the benefits of these plant-produced interventions can outweigh their harms. Full article