Therapeutic potential of targeting AKR1C2 in the treatment of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer development and progression are driven by androgens, and changes in androgen metabolic pathways can lead to prostate cancer progression or remission. AKR1C2 is a member of the aldo-keto reductase superfamily and plays an important role in the metabolism of steroids and prostaglandins. Alterations in the expression and activity of AKR1C2 affect the homeostasis of active androgens, which in turn affects the progression of prostate cancer. AKR1C2 reduces the highly active dihydrotestosterone to the less active 3α-diol in the prostate, resulting in lower androgen levels. Whereas the expression of AKR1C2 is significantly reduced in prostate cancer tissues relative to normal prostate tissues, this results in a weakening of the dihydrotestosterone metabolic inactivation pathway, leading to the retention of dihydrotestosterone in the prostate cancer cells, which promotes the progress of prostate cancer. Given the critical role of AKR1C2 in prostate cancer cells, targeting AKR1C2 for the treatment of prostate cancer may be an effective strategy. It has been demonstrated that curcumin and neem leaf extract effectively inhibit prostate cancer in vitro and in vivo by modulating AKR1C2.

Development and characterization of sodium alginate and ß-cyclodextrin nanoemulsions encapsulating betel leaf (Piper betle L.) extract for enhanced antimicrobial efficacy against foodborne pathogen.

This study aims to investigate the physical stability, droplet size, zeta potential, and antimicrobial properties of nanoemulsions formulated with betel leaf extract using ß-cyclodextrin (CD) and sodium alginate (SA) biopolymers. Nanoemulsions with ß-cyclodextrin exhibit superior stability at lower temperatures, with limited droplet size, and strong electrostatic repulsion. Morphological images demonstrate the successful encapsulation of betel leaf extract within both biopolymers, highlighting their potential for antimicrobial applications. Both CD and SA nanoemulsions display inhibitory effects on bacterial strains (E. coli, P. aeruginosa, L. monocytogenes, S. aureus, and B. cereus) and fungal growth (A. brasiliensis, R. stolonifer, F. oxysporum, and C. albicans). SA nanoemulsions show higher antimicrobial activity due to H+ ion release, particularly against A. brasiliensis and C. albicans. These findings underscore the potential of betel leaf extract nanoemulsions, especially those with SA, for various antimicrobial applications for sustainable food packaging, highlighting their significance in addressing microbial challenges.

Effects of Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo L.) Aqueous Leaf Extract and Arbutin on PK-15 and HepG2 Cells.

The antioxidant properties of the leaves of the Mediterranean strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) are mainly attributed to the main bioactive compound, the phenolic glycoside arbutin. In this study, the safety profile of strawberry tree aqueous leaf extract (STE) and arbutin at the DNA level was assessed in vitro using porcine PK-15 kidney cells and HepG2 cells derived from human hepatomas. To examine the effects on cell viability and DNA damage, cells were treated for 24 h with STE or arbutin at three concentrations presumed to be non-toxic (400, 200, and 11.4 µg/mL). Assessments were performed using the MTS viability assay, dual acridine orange/ethidium bromide fluorescent staining, and alkaline comet assay. Results showed that the highest concentration (400 µg/mL) of both tested compounds had no significant cytotoxic effects on either PK-15 or HepG2 cells. Apoptosis was the predominant type of cell death and the total amount of DNA damage in treated cells was within acceptable limits. These results on the in vitro cytocompatibility of arbutin and STE with PK-15 and HepG2 cells could serve to make more reliable judgements about safe levels of arbutin in cosmetic products and functional foods, given the increased popularity of the compound in recent years.

Evaluation of d 18 in ovo administration of soursop (Annona muricata) leaf extract into the air space on hatch performance and physiology of Noiler chicks.

Efficient poultry production can be accomplished using combined technologies. A combination of in ovo and ethno-veterinary technologies can deliver significant benefits, including reduced labour and production costs. This study evaluated the effect of in ovo administration of soursop leaf extract (SLE) on the hatching performance and physiology of Noiler chicks. A total of 550 eggs were incubated, and 460 fertile eggs were randomly distributed into 4 groups with 3 replicates on the 18th d of incubation. The eggs were then injected with 0.75 µg SLE, 1.5 µg SLE, and saline solution (negative control) at a rate of 0.2 ml in the air space. The noninjected group served as the positive control. At the end of the hatching period, the various groups were evaluated for embryo mortality, hatchability, hatch duration, organ weight, serum biochemistry, and chick quality. The results showed no significant differences (P > 0.05) in embryonic mortality, hatchability, organ weight, total protein, albumin, globulin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and glucose among the treatment groups. However, chick weight, chick quality, and serum triglyceride levels were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the extract-injected group. Additionally, incubation and hatch times were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the SLE group compared to the other groups. In ovo administration of soursop leaf extract resulted in reduced incubation duration, hatch time, and embryo mortality. In conclusion, the in ovo injection of SLE improved hatch performance and chick quality.

Effect of ginseng stem leaf extract on the production performance, meat quality, antioxidant status, immune function, and lipid metabolism of broilers.

Introduction: The present study explores the effect of ginseng stem leaf (GSL) extract on the production performance, meat quality, antioxidant status, immune function, and lipid metabolism of white feathered broilers. Methods: There were 6 replicates in each group, with 10 broilers in each replicate. In the 42 day trial, 300 AA broilers were randomly divided into five groups: control group (CON), 1.25% GSL extract group (GSL-L), 2.5% GSL group (GSL-M), 5% GSL group (GSL-H), and 45 mg/kg chlortetracycline group (CTC). Results: The results showed that different doses of GSL extract could improve the body weight, feed to gain ratio (F/G), average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), and meat quality of broilers. Compared with the control group, the addition of different doses of GSL improved the antioxidant and immune abilities of broilers to varying degrees, and the effect of GSL extract was significant in the GSL-H group (p < 0.05). In addition, medium and high doses of GSL extract significantly reduced the blood triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) contents of broilers (p < 0.05). Discussion: Adding GSL extract to the feed has a positive impact on the body weight, meat quality, antioxidant capacity, immunity, and blood lipids of broilers.

Mitigation of biochemical alterations in streptozotocin-induced gestational diabetes in rats through mesenchymal stem cells and olive leaf extract.

Treatment with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a new promising therapeutic approach with substantial very auspicious potential. They have been shown to protect various played a role in protecting organs from damage. This current study aims to evaluate the impact of the treatment of olive leaf extract (OLE), bone marrow-derived (BM-MSCs), and their combination on hepatotoxicity in pregnant rats with diabetes. METHODS: Animals were divided into five groups (10 pregnant rats each) as follows: control, GDM group, and OLE group (rats received streptozotocin (STZ) at a dose of 35 mg/kg body weight). GD + OLE set (pregnant rats were administered OLE at a dose of 200 mg extract/kg of body weight). GD + MSCs group (pregnant rats treated with MSCs). GD + OLE + MSCs group (pregnant rats were treated with both MSCs and OLE). RESULTS: STZ induced significant changes in liver parameters, lipid profile, and oxidative stress. Treatment with OLE, BM-MSCs, and their combination significantly ameliorated STZ-induced liver damage and oxidative stress. STZ resulted in a significant change in liver parameters, lipid profile, and oxidative stress. OLE, BM-MSC, and combination have significantly improved STZ-induced deterioration in liver and improved oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS: The findings demonstrate that OLE and BM-MSCs have beneficial effects in mitigating diabetes-related liver alterations. These outcomes showed that OLE and BM-MSC have beneficial effects in alleviating diabetes-related alterations in the liver.

Investigating the effects of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract on cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease.

AIMS: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with limited treatment options. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract (GBE) on AD and explore its potential mechanisms of action. METHODS: Key chemical components of GBE, including quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol, were identified using network pharmacology methods. Bioinformatics analysis revealed their potential roles in AD through modulation of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway. RESULTS: Mouse experiments demonstrated that GBE improved cognitive function, enhanced neuronal morphology, and reduced serum inflammatory factors. Additionally, GBE modulated the expression of relevant proteins and mRNA. CONCLUSION: GBE shows promise as a potential treatment for AD. Its beneficial effects on cognitive function, neuronal morphology, and inflammation may be attributed to its modulation of the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings provide experimental evidence for the application of Ginkgo biloba leaf in AD treatment and highlight its potential mechanisms of action.

Comparative Metabolomic Analysis of Moringa oleifera Leaves of Different Geographical Origins and Their Antioxidant Effects on C2C12 Myotubes.

Moringa oleifera is widely grown throughout the tropics and increasingly used for its therapeutic and nutraceutical properties. These properties are attributed to potent antioxidant and metabolism regulators, including glucosinolates/isothiocyanates as well as flavonoids, polyphenols, and phenolic acids. Research to date largely consists of geographically limited studies that only examine material available locally. These practices make it unclear as to whether moringa samples from one area are superior to another, which would require identifying superior variants and distributing them globally. Alternatively, the finding that globally cultivated moringa material is essentially functionally equivalent means that users can easily sample material available locally. We brought together accessions of Moringa oleifera from four continents and nine countries and grew them together in a common garden. We performed a metabolomic analysis of leaf extracts (MOLE) using an LC-MSMS ZenoTOF 7600 mass spectrometry system. The antioxidant capacity of leaf samples evaluated using the Total Antioxidant Capacity assay did not show any significant difference between extracts. MOLE samples were then tested for their antioxidant activity on C2C12 myotubes challenged with an oxidative insult. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was added to the myotubes after pretreatment with different extracts. H2O2 exposure caused an increase in cell death that was diminished in all samples pretreated with moringa extracts. Our results show that Moringa oleifera leaf extract is effective in reducing the damaging effect of H2O2 in C2C12 myotubes irrespective of geographical origin. These results are encouraging because they suggest that the use of moringa for its therapeutic benefits can proceed without the need for the lengthy and complex global exchange of materials between regions.

Effects of Strawberry Tree Water Leaf Extract and Arbutin on Biochemical Markers and DNA Integrity in Brain Cells of Lewis Rats.

There is growing evidence that arbutin and plant extracts rich in arbutin, such as extracts of the strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.), exert a range of beneficial effects, including cyto- and genoprotective properties. This study evaluated the effects of strawberry tree water leaf extract (STE) and arbutin in the brain tissue of Lewis rats. STE or arbutin were administered per os to male and female rats at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight/day for 14 or 28 days. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using biochemical markers (lipid peroxidation and the activities of the antioxidative enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase). The effects of the tested substances on DNA integrity in brain cells were evaluated using the alkaline comet assay. The results suggest a high biocompatibility of both tested substances with rat brain tissue. No significant harmful disturbances were observed in the oxidative/antioxidative status or impairments of DNA integrity in the rat brain cells. Nearly all post-treatment values were within tolerable limits as compared to the matched control rats. Such encouraging findings support further research using other subtle biomarkers to clarify the safety aspects of arbutin and STE prior to the development of specific nutraceutical products.

Computational and in vitro analyses of the antibacterial effect of the ethanolic extract of Pluchea indica L. leaves.

The most common gram-negative, Escherichia coli, and gram-positive bacteria, Bacillus spp., have evolved different mechanisms that have caused the emergence of multi-drug resistance. As a result, drugs that block the bacterial growth cycle are needed. Here, in silico and in vitro studies were performed to assess compounds in the Pluchea indica leaf extract, a medicinal plant, that can inhibit bacterial proteins. Briefly, P. indica leaves were extracted using ethanol. The crude extract was then subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for metabolite screening. Molecular docking simulations with rhomboid protease (Rpro) (Protein data bank ID number: 3ZMI from E. coli and filamenting temperature-sensitive mutant Z (FtsZ) protein data bank ID number: 2VAM from Bacillus subtilis were performed. Moreover, the well diffusion method was used to confirm the antibacterial activity of P. indica leaf extract. A total of 10 compounds were identified in the P. indica extract and used for computational analysis. Based on drug-likeness prediction, P. indica compounds may be drug-like molecules. Binding affinity tests indicated that 10,10-Dimethyl-2,6-dimethylenebicyclo(7.2.0)undecan-5.ß.-ol and 11,11-Dimethyl-4,8-dimethylenebicyclo(7.2.0)undecan-3-ol had the most negative values. Accordingly, these compounds may be potential ligands that bind to bacterial proteins. The root mean square fluctuation values was <2 Å, indicating stable fluctuation binding for the ligand-protein complex. According to in vitro antibacterial assays, a high concentration (50%) of the P. indica extract markedly inhibited E. coli and B. subtilis, with inhibitory zone diameters of 31.86±1.63 and 21.09±0.09 mm, respectively. Overall, the compounds in the P. indica leaf extract were identified as functional inhibitors of E. coli and B. subtilis proteins via in silico analysis. This may facilitate development of antibacterial agents.

Investigating the Discoloration of Leaves of Dioscorea polystachya Using Developed Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Methods for Manganese and Molybdenum.

The Chinese yam (Dioscorea polystachya, DP) is promising for the food and pharmaceutical industries due to its nutritional value and pharmaceutical potential. Its proper cultivation is therefore of interest. An insufficient supply of minerals necessary for plant growth can be manifested by discoloration of the leaves. In our earlier study, magnesium deficiency was excluded as a cause. As a follow-up, this work focused on manganese and molybdenum. To quantify both minerals in leaf extracts of DP, analytical methods based on atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) using the graphite furnace sub-technique were devised. The development revealed that the quantification of manganese works best without using any of the investigated modifiers. The optimized pyrolysis and atomization temperatures were 1300 °C and 1800 °C, respectively. For the analysis of molybdenum, calcium proved to be advantageous as a modifier. The optimum temperatures were 1900 °C and 2800 °C, respectively. Both methods showed satisfactory linearity for analysis. Thus, they were applied to quantify extracts from normal and discolored leaves of DP concerning the two minerals. It was found that discolored leaves had higher manganese levels and a lower molybdenum content. With these results, a potential explanation for the discoloration could be found.

Antimicrobial Activity of Olive Leaf Extract to Oral Candida Isolates.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the antifungal activity of olive leaf extract (OLE) and the synergistic effect of standard antifungal therapy and OLE against clinical oral Candida species' isolates. MATERIALS AND METHOD: The susceptibility of 60 clinical isolates of the Candida species (36 C. albicans, 16 C. krusei, 5 C. glabrata and 3 C. tropicalis) was tested with four concentrations of OLE (60 µg/µL, 120 µg/µL, 240 µg/µL and 333 µg/µL) and the synergistic effect of standard antifungal therapy and OLE (miconazole (MIC) + 333 µg/µL OLE and nystatin (NYS) + 333 µg/µL OLE). The antimicrobial activity was tested using the disk diffusion method. RESULTS: All concentrations (60 µg/µL, 120 µg/µL, 240 µg/µL and 333 µg/µL) of OLE showed a statistically significant effect on all Candida species compared to the control (DMSO) except for the lowest concentration (60 µg/µL) tested on C. glabrata. There was a dose-dependent effect of OLE on tested samples. Concentrations of 240 µg/µL and 333 µg/µL showed statistically significant higher antifungal activity compared to the lowest concentration of 60 µg/µL. No statistically significant synergistic effect of OLE and standard antifungal therapy was found compared with standard therapy alone. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study present the significant antimicrobial effect of OLE against all tested Candida species except for the lowest concentration on C. glabrata. Increasing the concentration of OLE also increases its effect on Candida species. This indicates the possible potential effect of OLE in the treatment of Candida-related oral diseases.

Vitis vinifera L. Leaf Extract, a Microbiota Green Ally against Infectious and Inflammatory Skin and Scalp Diseases: An In-Depth Update.

The skin microbiota, with its millions of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, plays a key role in balancing the health of the skin and scalp. Its continuous exposure to potentially harmful stressors can lead to abnormalities such as local dysbiosis, altered barrier function, pathobiont overabundance, and infections often sustained by multidrug-resistant bacteria. These factors contribute to skin impairment, deregulation of immune response, and chronic inflammation, with local and systemic consequences. In this scenario, according to the needs of the bio-circular-green economy model, novel harmless strategies, both for regulating the diverse epidermal infectious and inflammatory processes and for preserving or restoring the host skin eubiosis and barrier selectivity, are requested. Vitis vinifera L. leaves and their derived extracts are rich in plant secondary metabolites, such as polyphenols, with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties that can be further exploited through microbe-driven fermentation processes. On this premise, this literature review aims to provide an informative summary of the most updated evidence on their interactions with skin commensals and pathogens and on their ability to manage inflammatory conditions and restore microbial biodiversity. The emerging research showcases the potential novel beneficial ingredients for addressing various skincare concerns and advancing the cosmeceutics field as well.

The Safety Assessment of Mutagenicity, Acute and Chronic Toxicity of the Litsea martabanica (Kurz) Hook.f. Water Leaf Extract.

Litsea martabanica (Kurz) Hook.f. has traditionally been used as an anti-insecticidal agent and as a medication due to its hepatoprotective properties by highland communities in Thailand. This study examined the mutagenicity, as well as the acute and chronic toxicity, of the L. martabanica water leaf extract in Sprague-Dawley rats. The pharmacognostic evaluation of L. martabanica was performed in this study to ensure its authenticity and purity. Then, the sample was extracted using decoction with water to obtain the crude water extract. The assessment of acute toxicity involved a single oral administration of 5000 mg/kg, whereas the chronic toxicity assessment comprised daily oral doses of 250, 750, and 2250 mg/kg over 270 days. Various physiological and behavioral parameters, as well as body and organ weights, were systematically monitored. The endpoint assessments involved hematological and biochemical analyses plus gross and histopathological assessments of the internal organs. Our results exhibited no mutagenic activation by the L. martabanica water leaf extract in the Ames test, and no acute toxicity was observed. In the chronic toxicity tests, no abnormalities were found in rats receiving the L. martabanica water leaf extract across multiple measures, comprising behavioral, physiological, and hematological indices. Crucially, the histopathological assessment corroborated previous studies, reporting an absence of any tissue abnormalities. The results revealed that the L. martabanica water leaf extract had no adverse effects on rats over 270 days of oral administration. This demonstrates its safety and crucial scientific evidence for informing public policy and enabling its potential future commercial use in both highland and lowland communities.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of Nelumbo nucifera leaf extract against amyloid-beta-induced toxicity in the Caenorhabditis elegans model of Alzheimer's disease.

Introduction: Alzheimer's disease (AD) represents a critical global health challenge with limited therapeutic options, prompting the exploration of alternative strategies. A key pathology in AD involves amyloid beta (Aß) aggregation, and targeting both Aß aggregation and oxidative stress is crucial for effective intervention. Natural compounds from medicinal and food sources have emerged as potential preventive and therapeutic agents, with Nelumbo nucifera leaf extract (NLE) showing promising properties. Methods: In this study, we utilized transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) models to investigate the potential of NLE in countering AD and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Various assays were employed to assess paralysis rates, food-searching capabilities, Aß aggregate accumulation, oxidative stress, lifespan under stress conditions, and the expression of stress-resistance-related proteins. Additionally, autophagy induction was evaluated by measuring P62 levels and the formation of LGG-1+ structures, with RNAi-mediated inhibition of autophagy-related genes to confirm the mechanisms involved. Results: The results demonstrated that NLE significantly reduced paralysis rates in CL4176 and CL2006 worms while enhancing food-searching capabilities in CL2355 worms. NLE also attenuated Aß aggregate accumulation and mitigated Aß-induced oxidative stress in C. elegans. Furthermore, NLE extended the lifespan of worms under oxidative and thermal stress conditions, while concurrently increasing the expression of stress-resistance-related proteins, including SOD-3, GST-4, HSP-4, and HSP-6. Moreover, NLE induced autophagy in C. elegans, as evidenced by reduced P62 levels in BC12921 worms and the formation of LGG-1+ structures in DA2123 worms. The RNAi-mediated inhibition of autophagy-related genes, such as bec-1 and vps-34, negated the protective effects of NLE against Aß-induced paralysis and aggregate accumulation. Discussion: These findings suggest that NLE ameliorates Aß-induced toxicity by activating autophagy in C. elegans. The study underscores the potential of NLE as a promising candidate for further investigation in AD management, offering multifaceted approaches to mitigate AD-related pathology and stress-related challenges.

Comparison of Efficacy of Topical Carica papaya Leaf Extract and Hemocoagulase in Postoperative Wound Healing After Therapeutic Orthodontic Premolar Extractions: a Split Mouth Study.

Introduction Postoperative wound healing is the most important factor in the outcome of any surgical procedure. Wound healing is a dynamic process involving inflammation, neovascularization, granulation, fibroblast proliferation, re-epithelization, and remodeling. It repairs tissue integrity, restoring the body's natural defense barrier. A hastened wound healing will help in the quicker re-establishment of the body's homeostasis. Carica papaya includes vital nutrients and bioactive substances such as minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. Its primary active ingredient papain causes the enzymatic debridement of wounds. Hemocoagulase is a thrombin-like serine protease that is mostly employed for its procoagulant and wound-healing characteristics. It is derived from the venom of Bothrops species of snakes. This study aims to compare the wound-healing properties of topical Carica papaya leaf extract and Hemocoagulase after dental extractions. Materials & Methods For 48 patients requiring bilateral therapeutic dental extraction for orthodontic intervention, Carica papaya leaf extract (Caripill 275mg/5ml) was topically applied to the extraction socket on one side, and Hemocoagulase 0.2 CU solution (Botroclot) was applied to the extraction socket on the other side. The bilateral premolars were extracted for orthodontic treatment under local anesthesia. Patients were asked to apply the solution topically twice daily for seven days and were called for review on the seventh day. The assessment of the efficacy of both solutions in post-operative wound healing was the objective of the study. Healing was assessed by using a blinded single observer for all patients using Landry's healing index. Results A total of 48 subjects with 96 sites completed the study, with a mean age of 15.4 years. The study population consisted of 24 males and 24 females, which were evenly distributed among the two study groups. On comparison of wound healing index (WHI) scores between the two groups using the Wilcoxon signed rank test, Group A had a significantly higher mean rank than Group B with regards to the wound healing index score, and the results were statistically significant (p = 0.037). Conclusion It can be concluded from the study that Carica papaya leaf extract showed better wound healing in post-extraction sockets compared to Hemocoagulase. This study presents the promising use of natural extracts such as Carica papaya in wound healing because they are easily accessible to patients, more economical, and have no adverse reactions. More studies that focus on natural extracts to promote wound healing are required in the future.

Moringa oleifera leaf extract suppresses TIMM23 and NDUFS3 expression and alleviates oxidative stress induced by Aß1-42 in neuronal cells via activation of Akt.

Background and purpose: Oxidative stress plays an important role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Moringa oleifera leaf (MOL) extract has been shown to have antioxidant activities. Here, we studied the antioxidative and anti-apoptotic effects of water-soluble MOL extract in an amyloid beta (Aß)-induced oxidative stress model of AD. Experimental approach: The effect of amyloid beta (Aß)1-42 and MOL extract on differentiated SH-SY5Y cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. Cells were treated with Aß1-42, MOL extract, or MOL extract followed by Aß1-42. The mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) were evaluated by flow cytometry and dihydroethidium (DHE) assay, respectively. Western blotting was used to assess the expression of mitochondrial proteins TIMM23 and NDUFS3, apoptosis-related proteins Bax, Bcl-2, and cleaved caspase-3 along with fluorescence analysis of caspase-3/7, and Akt phosphorylation. Findings/Results: MOL extract pretreatment at 25, 50, and 100 µg/mL prevented ΔΨm reduction. At 100-µg/mL, MOL extract decreased TIMM23 and NDUFS3 proteins and DHE signals in Aß1-42-treated cells. MOL extract pretreatment (25, 50, and 100 µg/mL) also alleviated the apoptosis indicators, including Bax, caspase-3/7 intensity, and cleaved caspase-3, and increased Bcl-2 levels in Aß1-42-treated cells, consistent with a reduction in the number of apoptotic cells. The protective effects of MOL extract were possibly mediated through Akt activation, evidenced by increased Akt phosphorylation. Conclusion and implications: The neuroprotective effect of MOL extract could be mediated via the activation of Akt, leading to the suppression of oxidative stress and apoptosis in an Aß1-42 model of AD.

Kunzea Ericoides (Kanuka) Leaf Extracts Show Moisturisation, Antioxidant, and UV Protection Effects in HaCaT Cells and Anti-melanogenesis Effects in B16F10 Cells.

Kunzea ericoides (kanuka) products are well-known for their potent medicinal values in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory applications. The present study identified various compounds, such as chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, quercetin, and (E)-ferulic acid in the kanuka leaf extract, showing its potential use in maintaining skin health. The influence of kanuka leaf extract upon epidermal cells concerning cytotoxicity and in vitro activities of moisturisation, antioxidation, UV protection, and anti-melanogenesis effects were explored in the study. Kanuka leaf extract demonstrated significant promotion in the proliferation of HaCaT and B16F10 cells. After incubation with kanuka leaf extract, the content of ROS and DPPH in HaCaT was significantly decreased; at the same time, more SOD was produced. Furthermore, hyaluronidase-1 (HYAL-1) and HYAL-4 expressions were inhibited, while the aquaporin 3 (AQP-3) content was significantly increased in HaCaT. Kanuka leaf extract also inhibited the expressions of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (MMP-1) and MMP-14 in UV-induced HaCaT cells. In the B16F10 cell line, melanin and tyrosinase production were decreased under the presence of kanuka leaf extract, and the expressions of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TYRP-1), and TYRP-2 were also inhibited. The study validated kanuka leaf extract as an effective natural product against photoaging and melanogenesis.

Uncovering Metabolic Alterations in HCT-116 Colon Cancer Cells upon Exposure to Bamboo Leaf Extract Obtained from Guadua incana Londoño.

Metabolic alterations are increasingly recognized as important aspects of colorectal cancer (CRC), offering potential avenues for identifying therapeutic targets. Previous studies have demonstrated the cytotoxic potential of bamboo leaf extract obtained from Guadua incana (BLEGI) against HCT-116 colon cancer cells. However, the altered metabolic pathways in these tumor cells remain unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to employ an untargeted metabolomic approach to reveal the metabolic alterations of the endometabolome and exometabolome of HCT-116 cells upon exposure to BLEGI treatment. First, a chemical characterization of the BLEGI was conducted through liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Next, we assessed cell viability via MTT and morphological analysis using an immunofluorescence assay against colon cancer cells, and anti-inflammatory activity using an LPS-stimulated macrophage model. Subsequently, we employed LC-MS and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) to investigate intra- and extracellular changes. Chemical characterization primarily revealed the presence of compounds with a flavone glycoside scaffold. Immunofluorescence analysis showed condensed chromatin and subsequent formation of apoptotic bodies, suggesting cell death by apoptosis. The results of the metabolomic analysis showed 98 differential metabolites, involved in glutathione, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and lipoic acid metabolism, among others. Additionally, BLEGI demonstrated significant nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory capacity in macrophage cells. This study enhances our understanding of BLEGI's possible mechanism of action and provides fresh insights into therapeutic targets for treating this disease.

Study on the inhibitory mechanism of fig leaf extract against postharvest Fusarium in melon.

The objective of this study was to explore the fungistatic mechanism of fig leaf extract against Fusarium and to provide a theoretical basis for the development of new plant-derived fungicides. Methods: The fungistaticity of fig leaf extract were analyzed by the ring of inhibition method. Fusarium equiseti was selected as the target for analyzing its fungistatic mechanism in terms of mycelial morphology, ultrastructure, cell membrane permeability, membrane plasma peroxidation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) content and changes in the activity of protective enzymes. The effect of this extract was verified in melon, and its components were determined by metabolite analysis using ultraperformance liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (UPLC‒MS). Results: Fig leaf extract had an obvious inhibitory effect on Fusarium, and the difference was significant (P < 0.05) or highly significant (P < 0.01). Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that F. equiseti hyphae exhibited obvious folding, twisting and puckering phenomena, resulting in an increase in the cytoplasmic leakage of spores, interstitial plasma, and the concentration of the nucleus, which seriously damaged the integrity of the fungal cell membrane. This phenomenon was confirmed by propidium iodide (PI) and fluorescein diacetate (FAD) staining, cell membrane permeability and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Fig leaf extract also induced the mycelium to produce excessive H2O2,which led to lipid peroxidation of the cell membrane, promoted the accumulation of MDA, accelerated protein hydrolysis, induced an increase in antioxidant enzyme activity, and disrupted the balance of ROS metabolism; these findings showed that fungal growth was inhibited, which was verified in melons. A total of 1,540 secondary metabolites were detected by broad-targeted metabolomics, among which the fungistatic active substances flavonoids (15.45%), phenolic acids (15%), and alkaloids (10.71%) accounted for a high percentage and the highest relative content of these substances 1,3,7,8-tetrahydroxy-2- prenylxanthone, 8-hydroxyquinoline and Azelaic acid were analysed for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, preventive effects against plant diseases and acquisition of resistance by plants. This confirms the reason for the fungicidal properties of fig leaf extracts. Conclusion: Fig leaf extract has the potential to be developed into a plant-derived fungicide as a new means of postharvest pathogen prevention and control in melon.