Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Barbara Jacczak, Blazej Rubis, Ewa Toton
Summary: The stability of telomeres is crucial for cell function, and research on telomere biology and telomerase activity has been of great interest in various medical and scientific fields. Maintaining optimal telomere length and telomerase activity is an important step in anti-aging strategies.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Review
Cell Biology
Ines Martic, Pidder Jansen-Duerr, Maria Cavinato
Summary: This review summarizes the current knowledge about the effects of air pollution on the skin, including the relationship between air pollution components and cellular senescence, as well as the current therapeutic and cosmetic interventions.
Article
Plant Sciences
Sariya Mapoung, Sonthaya Umsumarng, Warathit Semmarath, Punnida Arjsri, Kamonwan Srisawad, Pilaiporn Thippraphan, Supachai Yodkeeree, Pornngarm Dejkriengkraikul
Summary: The study found that the hyperoside-enriched fraction from Houttuynia cordata has significant photoprotective effects against UVB-induced skin aging by inhibiting intracellular ROS production, inflammatory cytokine secretions, and promoting collagen synthesis. The active compounds identified in the H. cordata extract play a key role in regulating the MAPK signaling pathway to prevent UVB-induced skin aging. These findings suggest that H. cordata extract could be a potential ingredient in pharmaceutical or cosmetic formulations to combat skin aging.
Review
Food Science & Technology
David Fonseca Hernandez, Eugenia Lugo Cervantes, Diego A. Luna-Vital, Luis Mojica
Summary: Food contains bioactive compounds with diverse biological activities, used in the cosmetic industry for nutricosmetic and cosmeceutical products aimed at reducing skin aging and inflammation. Phytochemicals from fruits, vegetables, herbs, and plants are being utilized for their anti-aging potential. These compounds have antioxidant and biological properties that modulate molecular markers involved in the aging process.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN FOOD SCIENCE AND NUTRITION
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Weronika Majchrzak, Ilona Motyl, Krzysztof Smigielski
Summary: The cosmetics industry is searching for innovative ingredients with higher bioactivity and bioavailability. Bioferments are extracted from natural raw materials through fermentation with appropriate strains of microorganisms, mainly plant-based. They have a broad range of applications in areas like skin whitening, antioxidant properties, anti-aging, hydration, and anti-allergic effects. Fermentation increases the biochemical and physiological activity of the substrate, making fermented raw materials more compatible compared to unfermented ones.
Review
Chemistry, Medicinal
Kenza Mansoor, Talal Aburjai, Farah Al-Mamoori, Mathias Schmidt
Summary: The use of plants as a source of active ingredients in cosmetics has increased significantly in recent years. This review explores the most important plants used in skincare and cosmetic products. While the effectiveness of these plants is mainly based on preclinical research, more clinical trials are needed to evaluate their efficacy. Additionally, new formulation technologies could enhance the benefits of plant-based cosmetics.
PHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Lucia Salvioni, Lucia Morelli, Evelyn Ochoa, Massimo Labra, Luisa Fiandra, Luca Palugan, Davide Prosperi, Miriam Colombo
Summary: The role of cosmetic products in society is evolving rapidly, with the importance of personal wellness contributing to their increasing use. This necessitates a detailed explanation of the use of nanoparticles in cosmetics. Nanotechnology has been shown to improve the performance of cosmetics in various ways, particularly in skincare, and despite concerns about nanoparticle toxicity, there are detailed examples of nanocosmetic products with investigated safety.
ADVANCES IN COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Katarina Smiljanic, Ivana Prodic, Sara Trifunovic, Maja Krstic Ristivojevic, Milica Acimovic, Jovana Stankovic Jeremic, Biljana Loncar, Vele Tesevic
Summary: This study tested the effects of nine hydrolates from the Lamiaceae family on skin fibroblasts. Thyme, oregano, and winter savoury hydrolates had higher total phenolics, which correlated with radical scavenging and antioxidative capacity. Except for diluted lavender, all hydrolates appeared safe for prolonged skin exposure. Some hydrolates had positive effects on fibroblast viability and proliferation, while others had no effect. Specific volatile organic compounds were associated with cytotoxic effects.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jiaxin Dou, Ning Feng, Fangyu Guo, Zouquan Chen, Jie Liang, Ting Wang, Xueping Guo, Zhenshang Xu
Summary: In recent years, research on the benefits of probiotics on skin health has gained attention, leading to their application in cosmetics. Probiotics have been found to have anti-aging, skin whitening, anti-inflammatory, and photoprotective effects. This review provides an overview of the use of probiotics in cosmetics and the development of probiotic fermentation products.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Adriana Pereira, Maria Joao Ramalho, Renata Silva, Vera Silva, Rita Marques-Oliveira, Ana Catarina Silva, Maria Carmo Pereira, Joana A. Loureiro
Summary: The study developed solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for encapsulating lipophilic natural compounds to delay skin aging. The loaded-SLNs showed stability and maintained their physicochemical characteristics for 30 days. The formulations exhibited high encapsulation efficiencies and loading capacities, as well as high intracellular antioxidant activity. Encapsulating antioxidants in SLNs seems to be a suitable strategy for delivering them to the skin and improving their bioavailability.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Fabiana Soares, Joao Trovao, Francisco Gil, Lidia Catarino, Igor Tiago, Antonio Portugal, Susana M. Cardoso
Summary: The study examined the effectiveness of kappa/iota carrageenans from red seaweeds against cyanobacteria proliferation on stones, demonstrating their potential to reduce colonization significantly. Marine-based products, particularly those with antimicrobial properties derived from seaweeds, were highlighted as alternative methods for biocleaning cultural heritage assets.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Alina Sionkowska, Katarzyna Lewandowska, Marzanna Kurzawa
Summary: The potential cosmetic applications of chitosan-based films containing hyaluronic acid and rutin were studied. Rutin affected the thermal stability and surface roughness of the films, but did not influence the structure of chitosan. The proposed chitosan-rutin mask showed improvements in skin elasticity and moisturization.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Anna Nowak, Joanna Zielonka-Brzezicka, Magdalena Peruzynska, Adam Klimowicz
Summary: Epilobium angustifolium (EA) has been used topically since ancient times and has gained increasing interest in recent years. It contains valuable secondary metabolites that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and antiproliferative effects. Oenothein B (OeB) is one of the most important active compounds in EA, which increases ROS levels and protects cells from oxidative damage. Flavonoids and terpenes also play key roles in anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. The available scientific information on the biological potential of natural compounds can contribute to the wider use of EA in skincare and treatment.
Review
Plant Sciences
Melania Parisi, Mariavittoria Verrillo, Maria Antonietta Luciano, Giuseppina Caiazzo, Maria Quaranta, Francesco Scognamiglio, Vincenzo Di Meo, Alessia Villani, Mariateresa Cantelli, Lucia Gallo, Giovanna G. G. Altobelli, Serena Poggi, Riccardo Spaccini, Gabriella Fabbrocini
Summary: Photoaging is the premature aging of the skin caused by UV ray exposure. It is a significant challenge in the medical field, and consumers are seeking care products with multiple benefits and reduced environmental impact. The use of bioactive compounds from aromatic plants and sustainable methods can increase the effectiveness of new active formulations. The reuse of organic biomass and waste supports the principles of sustainable practices and the circular economy. This review explores how natural renewable sources and specific bioactive derivatives can manage photoaging.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Erika Csekes, Lucia Rackova
Summary: This article discusses the impact of skin aging and cellular senescence on the skin, as well as the role of natural polyphenols in preventing and delaying aging. It also summarizes the latest research on the anti-senescent mechanisms of polyphenols.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Rita Favas, Janaina Morone, Rosario Martins, Vitor Vasconcelos, Graciliana Lopes
Summary: This study explores the potential of four cyanobacteria strains for use in anti-aging formulations. Leptolyngbya species, especially L. boryana LEGE 15486, show promising results in scavenging free radicals, inhibiting enzyme activity, and providing UV-B protection, making them suitable for preventing UV-induced skin aging.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Ines Pascoa, Rita Biltes, Joao Sousa, Marco Aurelio Correia Preto, Vitor Vasconcelos, Luis Filipe Castro, Raquel Ruivo, Isabel Cunha
Summary: Cyanobacteria produce secondary metabolites that can act as ligands for PPARs, making them a potential source of bioactive compounds. A cell-based PPAR transactivation activity biosensor was upgraded and used in a screening campaign for drug discovery.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Fernando Pagels, Ana Arias, A. Catarina Guedes, Antonio A. Vicente, Vitor Vasconcelos, Maria Teresa Moreira
Summary: Cyanobacteria have been recognized as a valuable source of natural compounds, such as pigments, that have proven bioactivity. The cultivation and extraction processes have been developed and can be improved based on environmental performance indicators. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology is used to identify key areas of environmental impact and propose strategies for improvement. The results show that cyanobacteria cultivation has the greatest environmental influence due to energy requirements, and improvements can be made in reactor cleaning, culture medium sterilization, and biomass drying stages. Implementing these changes could reduce the environmental impact by 85%. This study highlights the importance of integrating technological development with impact assessment in the overall process.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Ines Rosado Vitorino, Alexandre Lobo-da-Cunha, Vitor Vasconcelos, Olga Maria Lage
Summary: In this study, a novel bacterium, strain ICT_H6.2(T), was isolated from the brackish environment of the Tagus River estuary in Portugal. Through genetic analysis, it was classified as a member of the bacterial phylum Planctomycetota and family Lacipirellulaceae, with a 98.0% similarity to its closest relative Aeoliella mucimassa Pan181(T). The strain has a genome size of 7.8 Mbp and a DNA G+C content of 59.6 mol %. It is heterotrophic, aerobic and capable of microaerobic growth, and can tolerate high salt concentrations.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Medicinal
Samuel Cavalcante do Amaral, Luciana Pereira Xavier, Vitor Vasconcelos, Agenor Valadares Santos
Summary: Cyanobacteria are a valuable source of secondary metabolites with diverse chemical and biological properties, including antifungal activity. This review examines the key features of these antifungal compounds, their sources, major targets, and the environmental factors involved in their production. A comprehensive analysis of 642 documents dating from 1980 to 2022, including patents, original research, review articles, and theses, was conducted for this study.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Maria G. Hinojosa, Antonio Cascajosa-Lira, Ana I. Prieto, Daniel Gutierrez-Praena, Vitor Vasconcelos, Angeles Jos, Ana M. Camean
Summary: The incidence and interest of cyanobacteria have been increasing due to their ability to produce toxic secondary metabolites known as cyanotoxins. This study assessed the cytotoxicity and oxidative stress generation of different cyanobacterial extracts, and compared the effects of extracts containing and not containing cylindrospermopsin (CYN) in human neuroblastoma cells. The results showed that the CYN-containing extract was more toxic and induced oxidative stress compared to the CYN-free extract. This study highlights the importance of studying toxic effects of cyanobacteria in their natural environment.
Article
Biology
Martha Martinez-Garcia, Gloria Garduno-Solorzano, Graciliana Lopes, Begona Astrain Sanchez, Ralph Urbatzka, Guilherme Scotta Hentschke, Jorge E. Campos, Vitor Manuel Oliveira Vasconcelos
Summary: Using molecular markers, we confirmed the taxonomic status of Bacopa monnieri from Mexico and analyzed its chemical content and potential bioactivity. The results show that B. monnieri has great potential as a natural source of compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesity properties. This plant's raw material can be effectively used as a nutritional and medicinal supplement.
Article
Plant Sciences
Ruben Luz, Rita Cordeiro, Jan Kastovsky, Jeffrey R. Johansen, Elisabete Dias, Amelia Fonseca, Ralph Urbatzka, Vitor Vasconcelos, Vitor Goncalves
Summary: This study described new genera and species of filamentous cyanobacteria isolated from aquatic habitats in the Azores archipelago through morphology, genetic data, and other analyses. It emphasizes the importance of taxonomic studies on cyanobacteria from less-studied habitats and geographical regions.
JOURNAL OF PHYCOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ana Margarida Silva, Marco Preto, Clara Grosso, Monica Vieira, Cristina Delerue-Matos, Vitor Vasconcelos, Mariana Reis, Lillian Barros, Rosario Martins
Summary: Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease that causes a decline in cognitive functions. It is the most common form of dementia and has no well-defined cause. Current treatments only manage to reduce symptoms, and there are only two drugs that can partially halt its progression. Natural compounds from mushrooms have been studied for their potential use in AD treatment due to their beneficial effects on various AD-related mechanisms such as enzyme inhibition, prevention of protein aggregation and neurotoxicity, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. While there have been studies linking mushrooms to neurodegenerative diseases, there is currently no publication summarizing the data specifically focused on AD. This review aims to fill that gap by compiling the potential anti-AD effects of mushroom extracts or compounds that target known AD-related mechanisms.
Article
Plant Sciences
Ruben Luz, Rita Cordeiro, Jan Kastovsky, Jeffrey R. Johansen, Elisabete Dias, Amelia Fonseca, Ralph Urbatzka, Vitor Vasconcelos, Vitor Goncalves
Summary: The taxonomy of cyanobacteria has been advanced through the use of molecular methods and morphology. In this study, four cyanobacterial strains from the Azores Archipelago were genetically characterized and classified as new species and genera. This research contributes to the understanding of the biogeography of cyanobacteria in remote oceanic islands and new terrestrial habitats.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Vitoria Ramos, Mariana Reis, Leonor Ferreira, Ana Margarida Silva, Ricardo Ferraz, Monica Vieira, Vitor Vasconcelos, Rosario Martins
Summary: Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by progressive and irreversible neuronal loss, and there are currently no available cures. Cyanobacterial compounds have anti-neurodegenerative properties and can be valuable in the field of treatment.
Article
Microbiology
Lamia Benredjem, Joao Morais, Guilherme Scotta Hentschke, Akila Abdi, Hajira Berredjem, Vitor Vasconcelos
Summary: This study isolated and identified cyanobacteria strains from the Cheffia Reservoir, revealing the importance of morphological features and the 16S rRNA gene in species determination. The research also discovered potentially toxic genotypes within this ecosystem, highlighting the need for adapted water treatment methods to prevent toxin release from picocyanobacteria.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Maria Joao Romeu, Joao Morais, Vitor Vasconcelos, Filipe Mergulhao
Summary: This study evaluated the effect of hydrogen peroxide on cyanobacterial biofilms and found that these biofilms were tolerant to hydrogen peroxide treatment, which may even lead to an increase in biomass.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Sung-Yeoul Kim, Vikash Chandra Roy, Jin-Seok Park, Byung-Soo Chun
Summary: This study aims to extract functional substances from Undaria pinnatiida sporophyll using supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) and subcritical water extraction (SWE). The results showed that the consecutive green extraction method can yield extracts rich in fucoxanthin and beta-carotene, and the sporophyll of Undaria pinnatiida contains health-beneficial fatty acids. Additionally, SWE can extract substances with antioxidant, antibacterial, and antihypertensive activities.
ALGAL RESEARCH-BIOMASS BIOFUELS AND BIOPRODUCTS
(2024)