Antioxidant studies are important for understanding oxidative stress and developing preservative techniques for food and medicine. There has been increasing interest in the study of natural antioxidants, such as vitamins, due to their biocompatibility, relatively low cost, and high antioxidant capacity. Spectroscopic tools, including fluorescence and electron spin resonance, have been developed to evaluate the antioxidant capacity. However, it is difficult for these methods to measure the antioxidant capacity against specific reactive oxygen species (ROS). Based on a recently developed 19F NMR method to differentiate and quantify specific ROS, we have hypothesized that the antioxidant capacity of chemicals against specific ROS (1O2, H2O2, and OH•) can be determined. In this work, we have investigated the antioxidant capacity of some common vitamins (provitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin C, and vitamin E) against specific ROS. This work showcases the capability and potential of our 19F NMR method for other ROS-pertinent studies.

Chlorophylls are bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties and biological activity of chlorophyll-rich microcapsules, focusing on the influence of carrier type and spray drying temperature on chlorophyll stability and enzyme inhibition capacity. The research hypothesis assumed that these factors significantly affect both the retention of bioactive compounds and the health-promoting properties of the microcapsules, particularly their ability to inhibit enzymes involved in type 2 diabetes. Microcapsules were prepared using various polysaccharide (Nutriose®, inulin, maltodextrin) and protein (soy and pea protein isolates) carriers and three inlet temperatures (160, 170, 180 °C). Compounds including carotenoids, chlorophylls, pheophytins, and pheophorbides were identified and quantified via UPLC-PDA/ESI-QToF-MS. The antidiabetic potential was evaluated by in vitro inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, β-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). Carrier selection had a greater impact than drying temperature, with soy protein isolate and inulin ensuring the highest chlorophyll retention and stability. Protein-based microcapsules showed the strongest DPP-4 and α-amylase inhibition, indicating potential for glycemic control. These findings advance microencapsulation strategies for chlorophyll-rich extracts in functional food and pharmaceutical applications.

This study examines the impact of added elderberry (EDB) extract on the physico-chemical, microbiological, and sensory properties of yogurt over a 21-day storage period. Two separate experiments were conducted: the first focused on testing concentrations of 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.5% (w/w) EDB extract for impoving antioxidant properties and replacing potassium sorbate, a chemical preservative commonly used in dairy products, while the second aimed to enhance the bioactive compounds' concentration by adding 0.5% EDB extract, and to assess the effect of a sweetener (agave syrup) on the sensory profile. Both experimental approaches demonstrated a significant increase (p < 0.01) in total phenolic content. In the first experiment, there was approximately 2.6 times more total phenolic content compared to the control (with a maximum of 11.71 mg GAE/100 g for the sample with 0.2% EDB extract), and about 6 times more with the addition of 0.5% EDB extract and agave syrup (with a maximum of 25.29 mg GAE/100 g). Additionally, the IC50 value decreased for all samples with EDB extract, suggesting enhanced antioxidant activity. Specifically, the antioxidant activity was approximately 3.3 times higher for the control for samples obtained from homemade yogurt with EDB extract, and about 8 times higher for samples obtained by adding EDB extract to commercial yogurt, compared to their respective controls. The high stability of bioactive compounds during the storage period highlights the potential of EDB extract as a functional antioxidant ingredient. Microbiological analysis confirmed the safety of the yogurt, with lactic acid and mesophilic bacteria showing stable counts and minimal declines over time. In the first experiment, a reduction of about 2.3 CFU/g was observed from day 0 to day 21 in samples with 0.1% and 0.2% EDB extract, while the control sample showed a reduction of 1.84 CFU/g. However, the control sample recorded the growth of psychrophilic bacteria, yeasts, and molds. In the second experiment, the samples with 0.5% EDB extract showed an average reduction of approximately 0.35 CFU/g, while the control showed a reduction of 0.51 CFU/g, maintaining stable counts and no detectable growth of psychrophilic bacteria, yeasts, molds, or coliforms. Additionally, the inclusion of different concentrations of EDB extract, along with the combination of a higher concentration of EDB extract and agave syrup, improved the yogurt's sensory attributes, thereby enhancing consumer acceptance. For the first experiment, 68% of the panelists expressed their preference for the samples with EDB extract, and 10% preferred the control sample. In the second experiment, 49% preferred the sample with 0.5% EDB extract and agave syrup, while 23% preferred the control sample. These findings support the integration of EDB extract into yogurt formulations to boost antioxidant properties while preserving microbiological stability. Future research should explore the potential health benefits and long-term effects of these functional dairy products.

Kidney stones, which have high prevalence and recurrence rates, often cause severe oxidative damage and inflammation. The ultrasmall hydrodynamic diameter of nanoparticles is crucial for their enrichment in the kidneys to exert biological activity. However, integrating crystallization inhibition and therapeutic functions into a single ultrasmall nanoparticle is challenging. A novel ultrasmall iron (Fe)-gallic acid (Ga) metal-phenolic networks (Fe-Ga MPNs) is developed for treating calcium oxalate (CaOx) nephropathies. These MPNs can specifically adsorb on the high-energy (1 ¯ 01 $\bar{1}01$ ) crystal face to inhibit the growth of CaOx monohydrate (COM), promoting the phase transition from highly toxic COM to low-risk CaOx dihydrate. Fe-Ga MPNs have broad-spectrum free radical scavenging abilities, reducing oxidative damage and inhibiting cell apoptosis. They exhibit sensitivity toward kidney damage, accumulating in injured renal tissue, reducing tubule injury and inflammation, improving tubule function, and inhibiting crystal formation. Fe-Ga MPNs also inhibit pro-inflammatory macrophage polarization and upregulate anti-inflammatory and highly phagocytic macrophage polarization. RNA sequencing analysis shows that Fe-Ga MPNs induce transcriptomic changes mainly involving immune regulation and citrate homeostasis pathways. In conclusion, the multifunctional nanonetwork Fe-Ga MPNs, with crystallization inhibition, antioxidant, and immune regulation properties, show great potential in treating CaOx nephropathies.

Chronic inflammation is a common hallmark of many chronic diseases. Although exercise holds paramount importance in preventing and managing chronic diseases, adherence to exercise programs can be challenging for some patients. Consequently, there is a pressing need to explore alternative strategies to emulate the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise for chronic diseases.

This review explores the emerging role of green tea bioactive components as potential mitigators of chronic inflammation, offering insights into their capacity to mimic the beneficial effects of exercise. We propose that bioactive components in green tea are promising agents for suppressing chronic inflammation, suggesting their unique capability to replicate the health benefits of exercise.

This review focuses on several key concepts, including chronic inflammation and its role in chronic diseases, the anti-inflammatory effects of regular exercise, and bioactive components in green tea responsible for its health benefits. It elaborates on scientific evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory properties of green tea bioactive components, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and theorizes how these bioactive components might replicate the effects of exercise at a molecular level. Through a comprehensive analysis of current research, this review proposes a novel perspective on the application of green tea as a potential intervention strategy to suppress chronic inflammation, thereby extending the benefits akin to those achieved through exercise.

Alzheimer's disease (AD), an age-related neurodegenerative disease, brings huge damage to the society, to the whole family and even to the patient himself. However, until now, the etiological factor of AD is still unknown and there is no effective treatment for it. Massive deposition of amyloid-beta peptide(Aβ) and hyperphosphorylation of Tau proteins are acknowledged pathological features of AD. Recent studies have revealed that neuroinflammation plays a pivotal role in the pathology of AD. With the rise of nanomaterials in the biomedical field, researchers are exploring how the unique properties of these materials can be leveraged to develop effective treatments for AD. This article has summarized the influence of neuroinflammation in AD, the design of nanoplatforms, and the current research status and inadequacy of nanomaterials in improving neuroinflammation in AD.

Metabolic syndrome, a global health concern, is characterized by visceral obesity, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and chronic low-grade inflammation. Current therapeutic options are limited by their varying efficacy and significantly adverse side effects, fueling interest in natural products, particularly plant extracts, as potential preventive interventions for high-risk individuals. This review examines the role of plant extracts in mitigating metabolic syndrome risk factors, addressing safety concerns and exploring associated technological advancements. The literature indicates that plant extracts hold promise for addressing the pathophysiology of metabolic dysfunction. However, challenges such as safety concerns, a lack of standardized regulation, and potential drug-plant interactions currently limit their clinical application. Rigorous, long-term clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy and safety of plant extracts before they can be established as a preventive strategy for managing metabolic syndrome.

Exposure of the skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is associated with many pathological conditions such as premature aging and skin cancer. Furthermore, members of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate-oxidase (NADPH oxidase or NOX) enzyme family can produce UV-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), even after cessation of radiation exposure. The caffeic acid-phthalimide (CF) compound is a potent antioxidant, which reduces the generation of ROS. However, its high lipophilicity may hamper its permeation through the skin. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) can ensure close contact and increase the amount of drug absorbed into the skin. The present work aims to develop and optimize SLNs containing CF to achieve enhanced skin photoprotection along with antioxidant and anti-aging effects. SLNs were prepared by the hot homogenization method using Compritol 888 ATO as lipid matrix, and Tween 80 and Pluronic® F-127 as surfactants to stabilize the nanoparticle dispersion. The particles had high stability for at least 30 days. Physicochemical characterizations of the selected SLNs formulations showed sizes in the range 150-180 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.2, and a negative zeta potential (≅ -25  mV). The SLNs had high CF entrapment efficiency (96-97 %) and showed a controlled drug-release profile. The in vitro study revealed low cytotoxic properties of CF-loaded SLNs towards fibroblasts and a photoprotective effect, reflected from the increased viability of UVB-irradiated fibroblasts treated with CF-SLNs. Moreover, the CF-SLNs induced fibroblast migration and closure, showing that these nanosystems offer not only biological photoprotection, but also stimulate wound healing.

Flaxseed gum (FSG) has promising applications in the field of nano/microencapsulation for its biocompatibility and excellent physicochemical properties. In this study, FSG-based nano-microcapsules (FSG NPs) were prepared using high-speed shear homogenization combined with ultrasound for efficient encapsulation of secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG). The particle size of FSG stands for nano-microcapsules (NP) was determined to be 336.96 nm, with a polydispersity index of 0.261. Adsorption kinetics, isotherms, antioxidant activity, surface morphology, rheological properties, and thermal stability were analyzed for FSG NP loaded with SDG. The results of adsorption kinetics analysis indicated that a pseudo-second-order kinetic model could effectively predict the adsorption behavior, with a predicted adsorption capacity of 9.140 mg g-1. The Freundlich isotherm fit well with the isothermal model, indicating a non-uniform adsorption process of SDG. According to morphometric analysis, the surface of the nano-microcapsules was smooth without obvious breakage. SDG-loaded FSG NP exhibited low viscosity, high antioxidant activity, and good thermal stability. In vitro release results showed that FSG-SDG NP has a lower release rate in gastric fluid compared to intestinal fluid, which helps to achieve targeted release of SDG in the intestine. These findings provide a way to valorize FSG: As a hydrophilic food colloid, it can be used to produce microcapsules that can be loaded with bioactive compounds.

Nanotechnology plays a pivotal role in food science, particularly in the nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds, to enhance their stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic potential. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the encapsulation of bioactive compounds, emphasizing the characteristics, food applications, and implications for human health. This work offers a detailed comparison of polymers such as sodium alginate, gum Arabic, chitosan, cellulose, pectin, shellac, and xanthan gum, while also examining both conventional and emerging encapsulation techniques, including freeze-drying, spray-drying, extrusion, coacervation, and supercritical anti-solvent drying. The contribution of this review lies in highlighting the role of encapsulation in improving system stability, controlling release rates, maintaining bioactivity under extreme conditions, and reducing lipid oxidation. Furthermore, it explores recent technological advances aimed at optimizing encapsulation processes for targeted therapies and functional foods. The findings underline the significant potential of encapsulation not only in food supplements and functional foods but also in supportive medical treatments, showcasing its relevance to improving human health in various contexts.

According to the innovative and sustainable perspective of the circular economy model, Olea europaea leaves, a solid byproduct generated every year in large amounts by the olive oil production chain, are considered a valuable source of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, with many potential applications. In particular, the following study aimed to valorize olive leaves in order to obtain products with potential antibacterial activity. In this study, olive leaf extracts, rich in polyphenols, were prepared by ultrasound-assisted extraction using green solvents, such as ethanol and water. The extracts were found to be rich in polyphenols up to 26.7 mgGAE/gleaves; in particular, hydroxytyrosol-hexose isomers (up to 6.6 mg/gdry extract) and oleuropein (up to 324.1 mg/gdry extract) turned out to be the most abundant polyphenolic compounds in all of the extracts. The extracts were embedded in liposomes formulated with natural phosphocholine and cholesterol, in the presence or in the absence of a synthetic galactosylated amphiphile. All liposomes, prepared according to the thin-layer evaporation method coupled with an extrusion protocol, showed a narrow size distribution with a particle diameter between 79 and 120 nm and a good polydispersity index (0.10-0.20). Furthermore, all developed liposomes exhibited a great storage stability up to 90 days at 4 °C and at different pH values, with no significant changes in their size and polydispersity index. The effect of the encapsulation in liposomes of O. europaea leaf extracts on their antimicrobial activity was examined in vitro against two strains of Staphylococcus aureus: ATCC 25923 (wild-type strain) and ATCC 33591 (methicillin-resistant S. aureus, MRSA). The extracts demonstrated good antimicrobial activity against both bacterial strains under investigation, with the minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 140 to 240 μgextract/mL and the minimum bactericidal concentration ranging from 180 to 310 μgextract/mL, depending on the specific extract and the bacterium tested. Moreover, a possible synergistic effect between the bioactive compounds inside the extracts tested was highlighted. Notably, their inclusion in galactosylated liposomes highlighted comparable or slightly increased antimicrobial activity compared to the free extracts against both bacterial strains tested.

Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (CICI), also known as "chemobrain," is a common side effect of breast cancer therapy which causes oxidative stress and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Ferulic acid (FA), a natural polyphenol, belongs to BCS class II is confirmed to have nootropic, neuroprotective and antioxidant effects. Here, we have developed FA solid dispersion (SD) in order to enhance its therapeutic potential against chemobrain. An amorphous ferulic acid loaded leucin solid dispersion (FA-Leu SD) was prepared by utilizing amino acid through spray-drying technique. The solid-state characterization was carried out via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Additionally, in-vitro release studies and antioxidant assay were also performed along with in-vivo locomotor, biochemical and histopathological analysis. The physical properties showed that FA-Leu SD so formed exhibited spherical, irregular surface hollow cavity of along with broad melting endotherm as observed from FE-SEM and DSC results. The XRD spectra demonstrated absence of sharp and intense peaks in FA-Leu SD which evidenced for complete encapsulation of drug into carrier. Moreover, in-vitro drug release studies over a period of 5 h in PBS (pH 7.4) displayed a significant enhanced release in the first hr (68. 49 ± 5.39%) and in-vitro DPPH assay displayed greater antioxidant potential of FA in FA-Leu SD. Furthermore, the in-vivo behavioral findings of FA-Leu SD (equivalent to 150 mg/kg of free FA) exhibited positive results accompanied by in-vivo biochemical and molecular TNF-α showed a significant difference (p < 0.001) vis-à-vis DOX treated group upon DOX + FA-Leu SD. Additionally, histopathological analysis revealed neuroprotective effects of FA-Leu SD together with declined oxidative stress due to antioxidant potential of FA which was induced by anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX). Overall, the above findings concluded that spray-dried FA-Leu SD could be useful for the treatment of chemotherapy induced cognitive impairment.

KEY POLICY HIGHLIGHTSNanobubbles and nanoparticles may enhance the polyphenols' bioavailabilityNanobubbles may stimulate the activation of Nrf2 and detox enzymesArmoured oxygen nanobubbles may enhance radiotherapy or chemotherapy effects.

The aims of the presented study were the development of four types of silibinin-loaded liposomes (multilamellar liposomes-MLVs, sonicated small unilamellar liposomes-SUVs, UV-irradiated liposomes, and lyophilized liposomes) and their physicochemical characterization and biological potential related to skin health benefits.

The characterization was performed via the determination of the encapsulation efficiency (EE), particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, conductivity, mobility, storage stability, density, surface tension, viscosity, FT-IR, and Raman spectra. In addition, cytotoxicity on the keratinocytes and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential were also determined.

UV irradiation significantly changed the rheological and chemical properties of the liposomes and increased their cytotoxic effect. The lyophilization of the liposomes caused significant changes in their EE and physical characteristics, decreased their ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging potential, and increased their potential to reduce the expression of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) in cells treated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide. Sonication significantly changed the EE and physical and rheological properties of the liposomes, and slightly increased their cytotoxicity and reduction effect on IL-1β, while the anti-ABTS and anti-DPPH capacity of the liposomes significantly increased. All developed liposomes showed an increasing trend in particle size and a decreasing trend in zeta potential (absolute values) during storage.

Silibinin-loaded liposomes (MLVs and lyophilized) showed promising antioxidant activity (toward reactive oxygen species generated in cells) and anti-inflammatory effects (reducing macrophage inhibitory factor expression) on keratinocytes and did not lead to a change in their viability. Future perspectives will focus on wound healing, anti-aging, and other potential of developed liposomes with silibinin in sophisticated cell-based models of skin diseases, wounds, and aging.

Green nanotechnology is an effective treatment approach being used in cancer research with less adverse effects. This work describes the incorporation of silver nanoparticles synthesized from clitoria ternatea plant extract (Ag@CT NPs) into sodium alginate and gelatin polymer blends (SA/GEL) to produce Ag@CT-SA/GEL polymer beads using calcium chloride (CaCl2) crosslinking agent. Both the formation and the effective incorporation of Ag@CT NPs into polymer blend have been proven by various spectroscopic analysis, surface morphology study and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. Ag@CT NPs and Ag@CT-SA/GEL demonstrate good antibacterial and antioxidant activities comparable to commercially available drug. Dimethyl thiazolyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) anticancer assay and apoptosis study of plant extract and Ag@CT NPs against lung cancer cell lines clearly indicate that Ag@CT-SA/GEL polymer bead can serve as an effective anticancer agent.

The administration of contrast agents can adversely affect kidney function. Nevertheless, the nephrotoxicity of iopromide in human renal cells, potential therapeutic agents, and the underlying molecular mechanisms have not been thoroughly investigated.

The proliferation of HEK-293 kidney cells was assessed using the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT) assay. Apoptotic cell death was examined using the TUNEL assay and caspase-3 activity measurements. The impacts and potential pathways of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on iopromide-induced renal damage were analyzed through whole transcriptome sequencing. The redox state was assessed by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity.

Iopromide-induced inhibition of cell proliferation and apoptosis in HEK-293 cells was counteracted by EGCG co-treatment. Pathway analysis revealed that molecules related to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses, such as ERK1/2, STAT1, and NF-[Formula: see text]B, were pivotal in the action of EGCG.

Iopromide-induced ROS production, decreased DPPH scavenging ability, DNA strand breaks, elevated caspase-3 activity, and reduced cell proliferation were all reversed by EGCG co-treatment in HEK-293 cells. The mechanisms likely involve the attenuation of oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and apoptosis, with regulation through the ERK1/2, STAT1, and NF-[Formula: see text]B pathways. Further research is necessary to confirm the protective effects of EGCG on renal function, particularly against damage induced by contrast agents like iopromide.

This study examines microencapsulation as a method to enhance the stability of natural compounds, which typically suffer from inherent instability under environmental conditions, aiming to extend their application in the pharmaceutical industry.

We explore and compare various microencapsulation techniques, including spray drying, freeze drying, and coacervation, with a focus on spray drying due to its noted advantages.

The analysis reveals that microencapsulation, especially via spray drying, significantly improves natural compounds' stability, offering varied morphologies, sizes, and efficiencies in encapsulation. These advancements facilitate controlled release, taste modification, protection from degradation, and extended shelf life of pharmaceutical products.

Microencapsulation, particularly through spray drying, presents a viable solution to the instability of natural compounds, broadening their application in pharmaceuticals by enhancing protection and shelf life.

Plant-derived polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds widely distributed in plants. They have received greater attention in the food and pharmaceutical industries due to their potential health benefits, reducing the risk of some chronic diseases due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardioprotective, and neuro-action properties. Polyphenolic compounds orally administered can be used as adjuvants in several treatments but with restricted uses due to chemical instability. The review discusses the different structural compositions of polyphenols and their influence on chemical stability. Despite the potential and wide applications, there is a need to improve the delivery of polyphenolics to target the human intestine without massive chemical modifications. Oral administration of polyphenols is unfeasible due to instability, low bioaccessibility, and limited bioavailability. Nano-delivery systems based on polysaccharides (starch, pectin, chitosan, and cellulose) have been identified as a viable option for oral ingestion, potentiate biological effects, and direct-controlled delivery in specific tissues. The time and dose can be individualized for specific diseases, such as intestinal cancer. This review will address the mechanisms by which polysaccharides-based nanostructured systems can protect against degradation and enhance intestinal permeation, oral bioavailability, and the potential application of polysaccharides as nanocarriers for the controlled and targeted delivery of polyphenolic compounds.

This study focuses on the synthesis of zinc and copper oxide nanoparticles using green methods by plant extracts. The resulting metal oxides were analyzed using FT-IR spectroscopy, TGA, TEM, zeta potential and assessed for their efficacy as pigments based on properties such as Hydrogen Ion Concentration, Oil absorption, Moisture Content, Fineness of grinding, Bleeding, and loss on ignition. The results confirmed that the prepared ZnO and CuO nanoparticles exhibited the formation of nanoparticles in the range of 10-40 nm with potential as pigments. Two paint formulations incorporating these nanoparticles and silicon resins as binders were tested for physico-mechanical attributes, chemical resistance, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance of the dry paint films. The study found that the films containing the prepared oxides demonstrated excellent performance, with no damage or color alteration observed after exposure to temperatures up to 500 °C. Moreover, the paint films containing ZnO nanoparticles showed superior efficiency after a 500 h salt spray test compared to those with CuO nanoparticles. These findings suggest that the synthesized mixed oxide nanoparticles are promising candidates for heat-resistant pigment applications.

Microbial infections are major human health issues, and, recently, the mortality rate owing to bacterial and fungal infections has been increasing. In addition to intrinsic and extrinsic antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, biofilm formation is a key adaptive resistance mechanism. Several bioactive compounds from marine organisms have been identified for use in biofilm therapy owing to their structural complexity, biocompatibility, and economic viability. In this review, we discuss recent trends in the application of marine natural compounds, marine-bioinspired nanomaterials, and marine polymer conjugates as possible therapeutic agents for controlling biofilms and virulence factors. We also comprehensively discuss the mechanisms underlying biofilm formation and inhibition of virulence factors by marine-derived materials and propose possible applications of novel and effective antibiofilm and antivirulence agents.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), often triggered by endothelial barrier disruption through vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), is a leading cause of blindness. This study investigated the inhibitory effects of phenolic compounds on VEGF-induced endothelial cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and permeability using human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (hRECs). Thirty-seven polyphenolic compounds were selected from various databases based on their antioxidant properties, abundance in food, and solubility. These compounds significantly reduced migration, tube formation, and endothelial permeability in VEGF-stimulated hRECs. Notably, formononetin, eriodictyol, biochanin A, and p-coumaric acid were more effective in suppressing VEGF-induced angiogenesis and endothelial permeability than lutein. Molecular docking simulations revealed that formononetin, eriodictyol, and biochanin A had relatively lower binding energies with VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) than lutein and sorafenib. These findings highlight the potential of phenolic compounds to be used as VEGFR2 inhibitors and an alternative strategy for preventing AMD.

The application of nanotechnology in antifungal therapy is gaining increasing attention. Current antifungal drugs have significant limitations, such as severe side effects, low bioavailability, and the rapid development of resistance. Nanotechnology offers an innovative solution to address these issues. This review discusses three key strategies of nanotechnology to enhance antifungal efficacy. Firstly, nanomaterials can enhance their interaction with fungal cells via ingenious surface tailoring of nanomaterials. Effective adhesion of nanoparticles to fungal cells can be achieved by electrostatic interaction or specific targeting to the fungal cell wall and cell membrane. Secondly, stimuli-responsive nanomaterials are developed to realize smart release of drugs in the specific microenvironment of pathological tissues, such as the fungal biofilm microenvironment and inflammatory microenvironment. Thirdly, nanomaterials can be designed to cross different physiological barriers, effectively addressing challenges posed by skin, corneal, and blood-brain barriers. Additionally, some new nanomaterial-based strategies in treating fungal infections are discussed, including the development of fungal vaccines, modulation of macrophage activity, phage therapy, the application of high-throughput screening in drug discovery, and so on. Despite the challenges faced in applying nanotechnology to antifungal therapy, its significant potential and innovation open new possibilities for future clinical antifungal applications.

The increasing demand for natural compounds as an alternative to synthetic antioxidants and conservans has led to the utilization of secondary plant metabolites in the food industry, as these bioactive compounds possess great antioxidative and antimicrobial properties without side effects on human health. Despite this, the sensitivity of plant-derived compounds is a restrictive factor in terms of their full potential. The current research aimed to characterize rosehip-fruit-extract-loaded liposomes (non-treated and UV-irradiated) in terms of their density, surface tension, viscosity, chemical composition (FTIR and HPLC analyses), and thermal behavior. In the storage stability study, the vesicle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, conductivity, and mobility of the liposomes were monitored. FTIR analysis confirmed that the plant compounds were successfully loaded within the carrier, while no chemical reaction between the rosehip fruit extract and phospholipids was detected. The results of the HPLC analysis evidence the high potential for liposomal encapsulation to protect sensitive bioactives in the rosehip fruit extract from the degrading effect of UV irradiation. The size of the rosehip-fruit-extract-encapsulated liposomes increased on the seventh day of storage from 250 nm to 300 nm, while the zeta potential values were between -21 mV and -30 mV in the same period and further stabilized over 60 days of monitoring. In Vitro release studies in water and simulated gastrointestinal fluids showed that the presence of enzymes and bile salts (in intestinal fluid) enhanced the rosehip-polyphenol permeability from liposomes (70.3% after 6 h) compared with their release in water after 24 h and in gastric fluid after 4 h (38.9% and 41.4%, respectively). The obtained results indicate that the proliposome method was an effective method for rosehip fruit extract liposomal encapsulation and for the delivery of these plant-derived bioactives in foods.

The present study was carried out to assess the fruit traits and phytochemical properties of 39 mulberry genotypes [Morus alba L. (16 white mulberry), Morus rubra L. (11 red mulberry), and Morus nigra L. (12 black mulberry)] selected in Bitlis province (Hizan) of Türkiye. Approximately, 1 kg fruit were hand-harvested from each genotype. The fruit size, fruit color, pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids content (SSC), vitamin C, total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and individual phenolic compounds were determined. The fruit weight varied between 1.80 and 5.84 g in black mulberry, 1.22 and 4.18 g in red mulberry, and 1.29 and 3.10 g in white mulberry. In white mulberry, SSC was determined to be between 19.00% and 38.86%, and in black and red mulberry it was between 11.86% and 21.90% and 12.60% and 18.90%, respectively. The titratable acidity rate, which varied depending on the species, was lower in white mulberry, but the highest acidity rate was recorded in red mulberry. Vitamin C was determined as 33.13 mg 100 g-1 in red mulberry, 24.10 mg 100 g-1 in black mulberry, and 14.03 mg 100 g-1 in white mulberry. Total phenolics in mulberries varied depending on the species, and the red mulberry fruit contained higher phenolic substances, followed by black and white mulberries. The total flavonoids varied between 0.27 and 7.83 g QE kg-1, whereas the flavonoids varied depending on the species and genotype. The highest values in terms of bioactive compounds were recorded in fruits of the 13HZN23 and 37 genotypes. Black and red mulberry fruit were found to have higher levels of individual phenolic content than the white mulberrry fruit.

Inulin, a prebiotic utilized in the food and pharmaceutical industries, promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon, thereby enhancing human health. Although inulin is commercially produced from chicory and artichoke, Inula helenium roots offer a high potential for inulin production. The aim of this study is to investigate the prebiotic activity of inulin (inulin-P) from I. helenium roots on Lactobacillus rhamnosus, as well as its ability to produce synbiotic microcapsules and the effects on probiotic viability during freeze-drying, in vitro gastrointestinal (GI) digestion, and storage. First, the effect of inulin-P on L. rhamnosus viability and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production was compared to other commonly utilized prebiotics. The findings revealed that inulin-P remarkably promoted the growth and SCFA yield of L. rhamnosus for 48 h of fermentation and 28 days of storage. Then, L. rhamnosus was encapsulated with inulin-P and commercial inulin to compare its survival throughout storage and the GI tract. Inulin-P microcapsules outperformed in terms of viability during storage (7.98 log CFU/g after 30 days at 4°C). Furthermore, inulin-P microcapsules were heat-resistant and protected L. rhamnosus from GI conditions, resulting in a high survival rate (89.52%) following large intestine simulation, which is ideal for increasing customer benefits. Additionally, inulin-P microcapsules exhibited similar physical characteristics to commercial inulin. Consequently, this study revealed that inulin-P, which is easy to produce, low-cost, and has industrial application potential, could be used as a good carrier for the synbiotic encapsulation of L. rhamnosus. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Inulin is a prebiotic that promotes the activity and growth of beneficial bacteria in the human gut. Although commercial inulin is currently produced from chicory root and artichoke, Inula helenium root is a potential raw material for inulin production. In this study, inulin was produced from I. helenium roots with a low-cost and easy production method, and it was determined that this inulin was an effective carrier in the synbiotic encapsulation of L. rhamnosus. This inulin exhibits superior prebiotic activity and encapsulation efficiency compared to commercial inulins like Orafti® GR and HPX and can be easily integrated into industrial production.

In the present study, a phenolic extract derived from the Pimpinella affinis plant underwent nanoencapsulation. The nanoencapsulation process employed chitosan, Salvia macrosiphon gum (SMG), and a chitosan-SMG complex (1:1) (CCS) as coating agents. The evaluation of nanoemulsions encompassed measurements of particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), ζ-potential, encapsulation efficiency, and intensity distribution parameters. The overall results of these assessments indicated that the nanoemulsion coated with CCS exhibited the most favorable characteristics when compared to other treatments. Subsequently, this specific nanoencapsulated sample was utilized to enhance the oxidative stability of canola oil at concentrations of 100, 200, and 300 ppm (parts per million). Oxidative stability tests, assessed through the total oxidation value (TOTOX) index, highlighted the superior performance of the nanoencapsulated extract, particularly at a concentration of 300 ppm. This enhancement can be attributed to the increased release of phenolic compounds from the CCS coating into the canola oil. The findings illustrate that the nanoencapsulation process can significantly enhance the efficacy of P. affinis extract in improving the oxidative stability of canola oil.

This research aimed to encapsulate the Capparis spinosa fruit extract to increase its stability for incorporation into food products such as jelly or jelly powder. After extraction, the nanoliposomes containing the extract were prepared in ratios of 60-0, 50-10, 40-20, and 30-30 lecithin-to-cholesterol. The effects of lecithin-to-cholesterol concentrations on the related parameters were then evaluated. The results showed that the average particle size was in the range of 95.05 to 164.25 nm, and with an increasing cholesterol concentration, the particle size of the nanoliposomes increased. The addition of cholesterol increased the zeta potential from -60.40 to -68.55 millivolt. Furthermore, cholesterol led to an increase in encapsulation efficiency, and even improved the stability of phenolic compounds loaded in nanoliposomes during storage time. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the successful loading of the extract. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) analysis revealed nano-sized spherical and almost-elliptical liposomes. For jelly powders, the water solubility index ranged from 39.5 to 43.7% (p > 0.05), and the hygroscopicity values ranged between 1.22 and 9.36 g/100 g (p < 0.05). In conclusion, nanoencapsulated Capparis spinosa extract displayed improved stability and can be used in jelly preparation without any challenge or unfavorable perception.

In the food industry context, where fresh cheese stands out as a highly perishable product with a short shelf life, this study aimed to extend its preservation through multi-layer edible coatings. The overall objective was to analyze the biaxial behavior and texture of fresh cheese coated with nanoliposomes encapsulating grape seed tannins (NTs) and polysaccharides (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose; HPMC and kappa carrageenan; KC) using immersion and spray methods, establishing comparisons with uncoated cheeses and commercial samples, including an accelerated shelf-life study. NT, HPMC, and KC were employed as primary components in the multi-layer edible coatings, which were applied through immersion and spray. The results revealed significant improvements, such as a 20% reduction in weight loss and increased stability against oxidation, evidenced by a 30% lower peroxide index than the uncoated samples. These findings underscore the effectiveness of edible coatings in enhancing the quality and extending the shelf life of fresh cheese, highlighting the innovative application of nanoliposomes and polysaccharide blends and the relevance of applying this strategy in the food industry. In conclusion, this study provides a promising perspective for developing dairy products with improved properties, opening opportunities to meet market demands and enhance consumer acceptance.

Secondary metabolites, polyphenols, are widespread in the entire kingdom of plants. They contain one or more hydroxyl groups that have a variety of biological functions in the natural environment. These uses include polyphenols in food, beauty products, dietary supplements, and medicinal products and have grown rapidly during the past 20 years. Antimicrobial polyphenols are described together with their sources, classes, and subclasses. Polyphenols are found in different sources, such as dark chocolate, olive oil, red wine, almonds, cashews, walnuts, berries, green tea, apples, artichokes, mushrooms, etc. Examples of benefits are antiallergic, antioxidant, anticancer agents, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and antimicrobe properties. From these sources, different classes of polyphenols are helpful for the growth of internal functional systems of the human body, providing healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases, improving brain health, and rebooting our cellular microbiome health by mitochondrial uncoupling. Among the various health benefits of polyphenols (curcumin, naringenin, quercetin, catechin, etc.) primarily different antimicrobial activities are discussed along with possible future applications. For polyphenols and antimicrobial agents to be proven safe, adverse health impacts must be substantiated by reliable scientific research as well as in vitro and in vivo clinical data. Future research may be influenced by this evaluation.

This study aimed to evaluate the spasmolytic activity of an underground parts extract of Gentiana asclepiadea L. (Gentianaceae), assess its antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, and explore the impact of extract encapsulation on the aforementioned bioactivities. An extract encapsulated by spray drying with whey protein, pure extract, and pure whey protein were comparatively tested. The main compounds identified via HPLC-DAD analysis underwent in silico ADME assessment. The spasmolytic effect was tested on a model of spontaneous rat ileum contractions, and the mechanism of action was further evaluated on acetylcholine-, KCl-, CaCl2-, BaCl2-, histamine-, N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester-, and glibenclamide-modified contractions. The most abundant compounds were secoiridoids (dominantly gentiopicroside), followed by C-glycosylated flavonoids and xanthones. Both pure and encapsulated extracts achieved significant spasmolytic effects, despite the spasmogenic activity of pure whey protein. The extract may exert its spasmolytic effect through multiple pathways, predominantly by antagonizing the Ca2+ channel and opening the K+ channel, while the nitric oxide pathway appears not to be involved. The antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the pure extract were moderate. The extract stabilized by encapsulation retained all of the tested bioactivities of the unencapsulated extract. The obtained results suggest that G. asclepiadea has potential for use in the treatment of some gastrointestinal complaints and that the encapsulated extract could be a valuable functional ingredient in pharmaceutical and food products.

The phenols from grape pomace have remarkable beneficial effects on health prevention due to their biological activity, but these are often limited by their bioaccessibility in the gastrointestinal tract. Encapsulation could protect the phenolics during digestion and influence the controlled release in such an intestine where their potential absorption occurs. The influence of freeze-drying encapsulation with sodium alginate (SA) and its combination with gum Arabic (SA-GA) and gelatin (SA-GEL) on the encapsulation efficiency (EE) of phenol-rich grape pomace extract and the bioaccessibility index (BI) of phenolics during simulated digestion in vitro was investigated. The addition of a second coating to SA improved the EE, and the highest EE was obtained with SA-GEL (97.02-98.30%). The release of phenolics followed Fick's law of diffusion and the Korsmeyer-Peppas model best fitted the experimental data. The highest BI was found for the total phenolics (66.2-123.2%) and individual phenolics (epicatechin gallate 958.9%, gallocatechin gallate 987.3%) using the SA-GEL coating were used. This study shows that freeze-dried encapsulated extracts have the potential to be used for the preparation of various formulations containing natural phenolic compounds with the aim of increasing their bioaccessibility compared to formulations containing non-encapsulated extracts.

Antioxidants play an important role in the prevention of oxidative stress and have been widely used in medicine and healthcare. However, natural antioxidants have several limitations such as low stability, difficult long-term storage, and high cost of large-scale production. Along with significant advances in nanotechnology, nanomaterials have emerged as a promising solution to improve the limitations of natural antioxidants because of their high stability, easy storage, time effectiveness, and low cost. Among various types of nanomaterials exhibiting antioxidant activity, metal-based nanoantioxidants show excellent reactivity because of the presence of an unpaired electron in their atomic structure. In this review, we summarize some novel metal-based nanoantioxidants and classify them into two main categories, namely chain-breaking and preventive antioxidant nanomaterials. In addition, the applications of antioxidant nanomaterials in medicine and healthcare are also discussed. This review provides a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of metal-based nanoantioxidants and a guideline for using these nanomaterials in medicine and healthcare.

Encapsulation of plant polyphenols with micro-/nano-carriers for enhanced bioavailability has been well documented, but the preparation of these carriers and subsequent loading of polyphenols is a multiple process, which is generally complicated with potentially unexpected negative effects on the bioactivity of the polyphenols. Here, we reported a convenient method to assemble carrier-free polyphenol nanoparticles (NPs) based on oxidative coupling polymerization. The effectiveness was assessed with five different polyphenols including pyrocatechol (PY), catechin (CA), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), tannic acid (TA), and proanthocyanidin (PC). The structural characteristics of these assembled nanoparticles (PY NPs, CA NPs, EG NPs, TA NPs, and PC NPs) were systematically analyzed with dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-visible spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). All NPs were colloidally stable with varying NaCl concentrations from 0 to 300 mM, were acid-resistant and alkali-intolerant, and were suitable for oral administration. An array of antioxidant assays further confirmed the superior antioxidant capabilities of NPs over Trolox and polyphenol monomers, indicating that the oxidative polymerization of polyphenols did not compromise the polyphenol activity of NPs. The in vitro simulated digestion studies validated that these responsive NPs were actually gastrointestinal pH-responsive and applicable to the gastrointestinal physiological environment. The bioaccessibility assessments by using a static in vitro digestion model revealed that better results were achieved with NPs than polyphenol monomers, with TA NPs showing about 1.5-fold higher bioaccessibility than other polyphenol nanoparticles. The present study with five polyphenols demonstrated that the oxidative polymerization of polyphenols provides an effective platform to assemble various carrier-free NPs with enhanced antioxidant activity, favorable stability, and improved bioaccessibility, which could be used promisingly as a functional food ingredient in food matrices or as oral drug delivery candidates for helping to manage human health or treating various gastrointestinal disorders in both the pharmaceutical and nutritional fields.

Grape seeds are an excellent source of flavonoids and tannins with powerful antioxidant properties. However, the astringency of tannins limits their direct incorporation into food. To overcome this challenge, we investigated the encapsulation of grape seed tannins within nanoliposomes formed by ultrasound cycling. We characterized the nanoliposomes' physicochemical properties, including encapsulation efficiency, antioxidant activity, stability, microstructure, and rheological properties. Our findings reveal that the nanoliposomes exhibited excellent stability under refrigerated conditions for up to 90 days with a mean particle size of 228 ± 26 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.598 ± 0.087, and a zeta potential of -41.6 ± 1.30 mV, maintaining a spherical multilamellar microstructure. Moreover, they displayed high antioxidant activity, with encapsulation efficiencies of 79% for epicatechin and 90% for catechin. This innovative approach demonstrates the potential of using ultrasound-assisted nanoliposome encapsulation to directly incorporate grape seed tannins into food matrices, providing a sustainable and efficient method for enhancing their bioavailability and functionality.

Polyphenolic compounds constitute a diverse group of natural components commonly occurring in various plant species, known for their potential to exert both beneficial and detrimental effects. Additionally, these polyphenols have also been implicated as endocrine-disrupting (ED) chemicals, raising concerns about their widespread use in the cosmetics industry. In this comprehensive review, we focus on the body of literature pertaining to the estrogenic properties of ED chemicals, with a particular emphasis on the interaction of isoflavones with estrogen receptors. Within this review, we aim to elucidate the multifaceted roles and effects of polyphenols on the skin, exploring their potential benefits as well as their capacity to act as ED agents. By delving into this intricate subject matter, we intend to provoke thoughtful consideration, effectively opening a Pandora's box of questions for the reader to ponder. Ultimately, we invite the reader to contemplate whether polyphenols should be regarded as friends or foes in the realm of skincare and endocrine disruption.

The zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) plant is well known for its fruits; however, its edible flowers appear to contain several active molecules, including polyphenols, which display poor bioaccessibility after gastrointestinal digestion (GiD). This study explores the bioaccessibility of polyphenols and antioxidant capacity within zucchini flower extracts during simulated GiD. Two nutraceutical formulations, non-acid-resistant (NAcR) and acid-resistant (AcR) capsules containing an aqueous extract of zucchini flowers, were employed in this investigation. Additionally, high-resolution mass spectrometry (Q-Orbitrap HRMS) was utilized for a comprehensive analysis of their polyphenolic constituents. Predominantly, rutin and isorhamnetin-3-rutinoside were the most prevalent compounds detected in the samples (514.62 and 318.59 mg/kg, respectively). Following in vitro GiD, the extract encapsulated in AcR capsules exhibited enhanced bioaccessibility during both the duodenal (189.2 and 162.5 mg GAE/100 g, respectively) and colonic stages (477.4 and 344.7 mg GAE/100 g, respectively) when compared with the extract encapsulated in NAcR capsules. This suggests that gastric acidity adversely impacted the release of polyphenols from NAcR capsules. In conclusion, the aqueous zucchini flower extract emerges as a promising and readily accessible source of dietary polyphenols. Moreover, the utilization of AcR capsules presents a potential nutraceutical formulation strategy to improve polyphenol bioaccessibility, enhancing its applicability in promoting health and well-being.

To conquer the low water solubility and bioavailability of curcumin (CUR), to corroborate its functional qualities and to broaden its applicability in the pharmaceutical sector, numerous nanoscale methods have been widely exploited for its administration. Because of its polycystic, biodegradable, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and non-allergenic properties, bovine serum albumin (BSA) and glycine (Gly) have been actively investigated as natural biopolymers for decades. Various BSA and Gly-based nanocarriers with unique features for CUR delivery, such as magnetic ferrite nanoparticles, are being developed (MNPs). In this work, magnesium ferrite (MgFe2O4)/BSA and nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4)/Gly nanocomposites loaded with CUR (drug model) were manufactured for the first time using a chemical co-precipitation approach to create biocompatible drug nanocarriers. It was found that the synthesized MgFe2O4/BSA and NiFe2O4/Gly nanoparticles have a uniform particle distribution and their size is much less than 100 nm. Saturation magnetization in MgFe2O4 and NiFe2O4 reaches 13.07 and 33.4 emu/g the remarkable peak of magnetization decreases to 10.99 and 32.36 emu/g after the addition of polymers. These analyses also showed the presence of chemical bonds in the structure of the nanocomposite. The curcumin diffusion process in NPs were determined using a mathematical modeling. The yielding of the product for MgFe2O4/BSA and NiFe2O4/Gly in 200 h is about 72 and 63%, respectively. Also, regressed relative diffusivities (D/R2), including effective steric hindrance, were determined as 5.75 × 10-4 and 2.72 × 10-4 h-1 for MgFe2O4/BSA and NiFe2O4/Gly, respectively. It shows that there is a significant steric barrier that significantly deviates from the molecular diffusion of the liquid. As a result, the low effective release of curcumin in the particles is more noticeable. Our study demonstrated the effective relationship between the polymer architecture and the biophysical properties of the resulting nanoparticles and shed light on new approaches for the design of efficient NP-based drug carriers.

Incorporation of antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds into edible oils has limitations such as rapid release of phenolic compounds, low solubility, low penetration, low accessibility, and rapid degradation by environmental compounds. To solve this problem, the nano-encapsulation process is offering promising opportunities. In this research, for the first time, the phenolic extract of Mentha aquatica was nano-encapsulated in nano-emulsions coated with chitosan, Lepidium perfoliatum gum (LPG), and complex of chitosan and LPG (CCL) (1:1 ratio). Based on various tests (particle size measurement, ζ-potential, polydispersity index, encapsulation efficiency index, and intensity curve), the LPG coating was the most optimum option for nano-encapsulation compared to the other coatings. Thus, the LPG-assisted nano-encapsulated phenolic extract of M. aquatica was used to improve the oxidative stability of canola oil at three concentrations (100, 200, and 300 ppm). The results of peroxide value and anisidine index tests (as initial and secondary oxidation indicators, respectively) showed that the nano-encapsulation improved the antioxidant effect of M. aquatica when compared with free extract in canola oil. In a comparative approach, the best sample was obtained from the LPG-assisted nano-encapsulated extract (200 ppm) due to the release of more phenolic compounds. The findings from this study showcase how nano-encapsulation enhances the efficacy of antioxidants in edible oils.

Plant-based milk is particularly suitable for fortification with multiple nutraceuticals because it contains both hydrophobic and hydrophilic domains that can accommodate molecules with different polarities. In this study, we fortified soymilk with three common polyphenols (curcumin, quercetin, and resveratrol) using three pH-driven approaches. We compared the effectiveness of these three different approaches for co-encapsulating polyphenols. The gastrointestinal fate of the polyphenol-fortified soymilks was then studied by passing them through a simulated mouth, stomach, and small intestine, including the stability and bioaccessibility of polyphenols. All three pH-driven approaches were suitable for co-encapsulating multiple polyphenols at a high encapsulation efficiency, especially for the curcumin and resveratrol. The polyphenol-loaded delivery systems exhibited similar changes in particle size, charge, stability, and bioaccessibility as they passed through the mouth, stomach, and intestinal phases. The bioaccessibility of the co-encapsulated polyphenols was much greater than that of crystallized polyphenols dispersed in water. The poor bioaccessibility of the crystallized polyphenols was attributed to their low solubility in water, which made them more difficult to solubilize within mixed micelles. This study underscores the feasibility of pH-driven approaches for encapsulating a variety of polyphenols into the same plant-based delivery system. These fortified plant-based milks may therefore be designed to provide specific health benefits to consumers.

We immobilized the olive leaf extract (OLE) with chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) by optimizing the effect of various immobilization conditions, and OLE-loaded CNPs (OLE-CNPs) were then elaborately characterized physicochemically by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Under optimal conditions, CNPs were able to accommodate the OLE with a loading capacity of 97.5%. The resulting OLE-CNPs had a spherical morphology, and their average diameter was approximately 100 nm. The cytotoxic influence, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis stage of OLE and OLE-CNPs were analyzed on lung carcinoma (A549) and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cell lines. In an in vitro cytotoxic assay, IC50 values of OLE-CNPs were determined to be 540 μg/mL for A549 and 810 μg/mL for MCF-7. The treatment of both A549 and MCF-7 with OLE-CNPs caused the highest cell arrest in G0/G1 in a dose-independent manner. OLE-CNPs affected cell cycle distribution in a manner different from free OLE treatment in both cancer cells. A549 and MCF-7 cells were predominantly found in the late apoptosis and necrosis phases, respectively, upon treatment of 1000 μM OLE-CNPs. Our results suggest that CNPs enhance the utility of OLEs as nutraceuticals in cancer and that OLE-CNPs can be utilized as an adjunct to cancer therapy.

Over the last years, polysaccharides have been linked to antioxidant effects using both in vitro chemical and biological models. The reported structures, claimed to act as antioxidants, comprise chitosan, pectic polysaccharides, glucans, mannoproteins, alginates, fucoidans, and many others of all type of biological sources. The structural features linked to the antioxidant action include the polysaccharide charge, molecular weight, and the occurrence of non-carbohydrate substituents. The establishment of structure/function relationships can be, however, biased by secondary phenomena that tailor polysaccharides behavior in antioxidant systems. In this sense, this review confronts some basic concepts of polysaccharides chemistry with the current claim of carbohydrates as antioxidants. It critically discusses how the fine structure and properties of polysaccharides can define polysaccharides as antioxidants. Polysaccharides antioxidant action is highly dependent on their solubility, sugar ring structure, molecular weight, occurrence of positive or negatively charged groups, protein moieties and covalently linked phenolic compounds. However, the occurrence of phenolic compounds and protein as contaminants leads to misleading results in methodologies often used for screening and characterization purposes, as well as in vivo models. Despite falling in the concept of antioxidants, the role of polysaccharides must be well defined according with the matrices where they are involved.

Alginate microcapsules are a talented means for the delivery of broad curative biomacromolecules. In this study, we immobilized olive leaf extract (OLE) by calcium alginate (CA) and chitosan-coated CA (CCA) and characterized the OLE-loaded CA and CCA. The cytotoxic effect, the cell cycle arrest, and the apoptotic effect of OLE and its microcapsules were investigated against breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) and lung carcinoma (A549). As a result, the loading capacity of OLE-CA and OLE-CCA was found to be 80 and 99%, respectively, in optimal conditions. Also, OLE-CA and OLE-CCA were characterized by unique FTIR peaks and morphological display relative to the empty CCA microcapsules. The cytotoxicity analysis showed that the IC50 values of OLE-CA and OLE-CCA were determined to be 312 and 0.94 μg mL-1 against A549, respectively, whereas these were found to be 865.4 and 425.5 μg mL-1 for MCF-7 cells. On the other hand, the OLE microcapsules did not possess in any concentration of cytotoxic influence on the BEAS 2B healthy cell line. Also, the exposure of OLE-CCA to MCF-7 and A549 resulted in the arrest of more MCF-7 and A549 cells at the G0/G1 phase compared to the OLE. A549 and MCF-7 cells were predominantly found in the late apoptosis phase and necrosis phase, respectively. Optical microscopy images confirmed that OLE microcapsules were more effective against MCF-7 and A549 than free OLE. The present work suggested that the OLE microcapsules might be administered as nutrition supplements for cancer therapy.

Paeonia peregrina Mill. is a perennial herbaceous plant species, known for the medicinal value of all of its plant parts, although the chemical composition of the petals is unknown. This study aimed to determine the chemical fingerprint of the petals and also establish the optimal extraction parameters, extraction medium, and extraction method for petals collected from different localities in Serbia. The optimization was performed in order to acquire extracts that are rich in the contents of total polyphenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), and also exhibit strong antioxidant activity. In addition, the influence of the extracts on several human skin pathogens was evaluated, as well as their ability to aid wound closure and act as anti-inflammatory agents. Both the extraction medium and the applied technique significantly influenced the skin-beneficial biological activities, while methanol proved to be a more favorable extraction medium. In conclusion, the extraction conditions that yielded the extract with the richest phenolic content with satisfactory biological potential varied between the assays, while the most promising locality in Serbia for the collection of P. peregrina petals was Pančevo (South Banat).