Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jana Sedlarikova, Magda Janalikova, Petra Peer, Lucie Pavlatkova, Antonin Minarik, Pavel Pleva
Summary: In this study, antimicrobial zein-based films enriched with monolaurin, eugenol, oregano, and thyme essential oil were prepared. The films exhibited enhanced tensile properties and antimicrobial activity against bacteria, yeasts, and molds. The unique combination of polyphenolic eugenol and amphiphilic monoglyceride provided highly stretchable films with improved barrier properties. These zein-based films with tunable surface properties could serve as active packaging materials, offering an alternative to non-renewable resources.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Marwa I. Abd El-Hamid, Reham M. El-Tarabili, Mosa M. Bahnass, Mohammed Abdulrahman Alshahrani, Ahmed Saif, Khairiah Mubarak Alwutayd, Fatmah Ahmed Safhi, Abdallah Tageldein Mansour, Noaf Abdullah N. Alblwi, Mohammed M. Ghoneim, Ayman Abo Elmaaty, Helal F. Al-harthi, Mahmoud M. Bendary
Summary: This study evaluated the multidrug resistance and multivirulence profiles of Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from cows with mastitis. All isolates were found to be biofilm-producing methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains. The tested essential oils (EOs) demonstrated antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities that matched with the phenotypic evaluation and molecular docking studies. Synergistic interactions between the investigated EOs and methicillin or vancomycin were detected. Additionally, 13 isolates showed a change in antimicrobial resistance patterns to sensitive phenotypes after treatment with any of the investigated EOs. Combining the EOs with available antimicrobial drugs can prevent treatment failure of bovine mastitis caused by resistant S. aureus.
FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Xiaohua Chen, Shufeng Shang, Fei Yan, Hai Jiang, Guanjie Zhao, Shan Tian, Rui Chen, Dejing Chen, Yafeng Dang
Summary: Antioxidant activities of five essential oils and their major components were evaluated. Cinnamon, thyme, clove oils and eugenol, thymol showed the highest antioxidant activity. Lavender, peppermint oils and their components linalool, menthol had low antioxidant activity. Antioxidant activity in fish oil emulsion and human red blood cells showed the potential of essential oil in preventing lipid oxidation and reducing oxidative stress.
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Lucie Pavlatkova, Jana Sedlarikova, Pavel Pleva, Petra Peer, Ilke Uysal-Unalan, Magda Janalikova
Summary: This study aimed to develop active food packaging based on zein and chitosan, incorporating natural bioactive compounds to combat bacteria, yeasts, and fungi. The results showed that this packaging demonstrated effective antimicrobial properties and extended the shelf life of fruits.
JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
(2023)
Article
Plant Sciences
Simona Chrapaciene, Neringa Rasiukeviciute, Alma Valiuskaite
Summary: The study found that the essential oils from Origanum vulgare subspecies were effective in inhibiting the growth of Alternaria spp., with the most effective concentration being 600 μL L-1 for O. vulgare subsp. vulgare and 400 μL L-1 for O. vulgare subsp. hirtum. These findings suggest that Origanum essential oils could be a potential natural alternative for controlling fungal pathogens in carrots, contributing to environmentally friendly food production.
Article
Horticulture
A. Di Francesco, E. Aprea, F. Gasperi, A. Parenti, N. Placi, F. Rigosi, E. Baraldi
Summary: This study evaluated the inhibitory effects of organic essential oils on apple pathogens. Thyme essential oil showed the highest inhibitory effect in vitro. Application of essential oils on apples through dipping treatment also showed potential for inhibition.
SCIENTIA HORTICULTURAE
(2022)
Article
Fisheries
Inacio M. Assane, Gustavo M. R. Valladao, Fabiana Pilarski
Summary: The study found that 16 commercial plant-derived essential oils have antimicrobial activity against aquatic pathogens, with most oils showing non-cytotoxic effects on fish erythrocytes. Among them, garlic, cinnamon, basil, clove, and thyme essential oils exhibited the highest activity against microbial strains.
AQUACULTURE RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Manjot Kaur, Deenan Santhiya
Summary: The study presents a comprehensive analysis of zein film blended with glycerol and essential oils, showcasing excellent UV shielding and antimicrobial properties against spoilage microorganisms. The incorporation of essential oils significantly reduces microbial growth on fruit samples from day 3 onwards. The fabricated films possess good barrier properties and mechanical strength, making them suitable for extending the shelf life of food and drug products.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Giovannamaria Petrocelli, Fulvia Farabegoli, Maria Chiara Valerii, Catia Giovannini, Alberto Sardo, Enzo Spisni
Summary: Essential oils are complex compounds synthesized from aromatic plants, potentially possessing anticancer properties against colorectal cancer cells. Cinnamaldehyde and eugenol were identified as compounds that selectively target transformed colonic cells, inducing apoptosis, necrosis, and cell cycle slowdown, without affecting normal colon cells.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Eman Al-Sayed, Haidy A. Gad, Dina M. El-Kersh
Summary: This study identified the composition of four Piper essential oils using gas chromatography mass spectrometry and other techniques, revealing their inhibitory effects on Helicobacter pylori. Among the oils, Piper longum oil exhibited the most efficient anti-Helicobacter activity.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Giuseppe Granata, Stefano Stracquadanio, Marco Leonardi, Edoardo Napoli, Graziella Malandrino, Viviana Cafiso, Stefania Stefani, Corrada Geraci
Summary: The study reports the preparation and physicochemical characterization of chitosan nanoparticles loaded with Thymus capitatus and Origanum vulgare essential oils, which demonstrate enhanced bactericidal activity against foodborne pathogens. These ecofriendly nanosystems could serve as a promising alternative to synthetic preservatives for health and food safety.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Alaa Eldin M. A. Morshdy, Ahmed S. El-tahlawy, Sameer H. Qari, Alaa T. Qumsani, Daniyah Habiballah Bay, Rokayya Sami, Eman Hillal Althubaiti, Ahmed M. A. Mansour, Amani H. Aljahani, Abd El-Salam E. Hafez, Abdallah Fikry A. Mahmoud, Rasha M. El Bayomi, Mohamed A. Hussein
Summary: This study investigated the anti-biofilm effects of garlic and thyme essential oils on Salmonella typhimurium. The results showed that garlic essential oil had stronger antibacterial properties and that Salmonella typhimurium had varying degrees of biofilm formation abilities at different temperatures.
Article
Plant Sciences
Yu Long, Dan Li, Shuang Yu, Yu-lu Zhang, Song-yu Liu, Jin-yan Wan, Ai Shi, Jie Deng, Jing Wen, Xiao-qiu Li, Ying Ma, Nan Li, Ming Yang
Summary: This article reviews the traditional application, preclinical mechanisms, and clinical use of essential oils in cardiovascular diseases. The article highlights the dual properties of essential oils as both drugs and excipients, and discusses the role of aromatherapy in improving cardiovascular diseases.
JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Arya Nair, Rashmi Mallya, Vasanti Suvarna, Tabassum Asif Khan, Munira Momin, Abdelwahab Omri
Summary: Microbial pathogens are the leading cause of chronic infections and fatalities worldwide. The use of antibiotics has led to the rise of drug-resistant strains, posing a challenge in treatment. Essential oil-loaded nanoparticles show potential as antimicrobials, overcoming the limitations of essential oils.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Thais A. S. Oliveira, Mariana B. Santiago, Valmore H. P. Santos, Eliane O. Silva, Carlos H. G. Martins, Antonio E. M. Crotti
Summary: This review article provides an updated overview of the literature from 2011 to 2021 regarding the antibacterial activity of EOs against the main bacteria responsible for caries and periodontal diseases. The criteria for classifying the in vitro antibacterial activity of EOs has been updated, and the most promising results are highlighted.
CHEMISTRY & BIODIVERSITY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Cecilia Bartolucci, Viviana Scognamiglio, Amina Antonacci, Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto
Summary: This article describes a circular framework that allows for a quick assessment of green applications of nanotechnologies in agriculture. It is divided into segments addressing specific aspects of potentially green interventions.
Article
Agronomy
Jessica S. Boff, Alexandre C. Reis, Jhones L. de Oliveira, Renata B. Gross, Leonardo F. Fraceto, Adriano A. Melo, Oderlei Bernardi
Summary: This study developed and evaluated nanoencapsulated-based formulations of bifenthrin (BFT) and lambda-cyhalothrin (LAM) with synergists piperonyl butoxide (PBO) and diethyl maleate (DEM) for insect resistance management (IRM) against Euschistus heros and Chrysodeixis includens with reduced susceptibility to pyrethroids. The results showed that these nanoformulations had the potential to improve control efficacy and provide updates for designing new insecticide formulations for IRM.
PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Marine & Freshwater Biology
Gabriela H. Da Silva, Lidiane Silva Franqui, Marcelo A. De Farias, Vera Lucia S. S. De Castro, Hugh J. Byrne, Diego S. T. Martinez, Regina T. R. Monteiro, Alan Casey
Summary: This study investigated the cytotoxicity, protein corona formation, and cellular internalisation of TiO2_MWCNT on RTG-2 cells for the first time. The results showed that this nanohybrid had no toxicity effects on RTG-2 cells within 24 hours. Spectral and microscopic analysis revealed that TiO2_MWCNT can form complexes through adsorption of proteins and be internalised by cells.
AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Muhammad Mujtaba, Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto, Mahyar Fazeli, Sritama Mukherjee, Susilaine Maira Savassa, Gerson Araujo de Medeiros, Anderson do Espirito Santo Pereira, Sandro Donnini Mancini, Juha Lipponen, Francisco Vilaplana
Summary: In response to the global warming crisis caused by uncontrolled greenhouse gas production, industries are striving to reduce their dependence on petrochemicals and petroleum-based industrial components and replace them with biobased, sustainable, and environmentally friendly alternatives. Agricultural waste, particularly lignocellulosic biomass, provides a significant resource for the development of various bio-products. Recent advancements in integrated biorefineries have improved the utilization of waste lignocellulose components to produce biofuels, platform chemicals, resins, bioplastics, additives, and other biobased materials for diverse applications.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Tatiane Pasquoto-Stigliani, Mariana Guilger-Casagrande, Estefania V. R. Campos, Tais Germano-Costa, Natalia Bilesky-Jose, Bianca B. Migliorini, Leandro O. Feitosa, Bruno T. Sousa, Halley C. de Oliveira, Leonardo F. Fraceto, Renata Lima
Summary: This study successfully synthesized biogenic titanium nanoparticles using the filtrate of the fungus Trichoderma harzianum, which showed potential biological activity against phytopathogens and enhanced the growth of T. harzianum. The nanoparticles inhibited the growth of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and showed high chitinolytic activity. They were non-toxic to human cells and had a protective effect. The nanoparticles had minimal impact on agricultural microorganisms and did not cause morphological and biochemical changes in soybean plants.
JOURNAL OF NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Julia Amanda Rodrigues Fracasso, Mariana Bittencourt Ibe, Luisa Taynara Silverio da Costa, Lucas Pires Guarnier, Amanda Martins Viel, Gustavo Reis de Brito, Mariana Conti Parron, Anderson Espirito do Santo Pereira, Giovana Sant'Ana Pegorin Brasil, Valdecir Farias Ximenes, Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto, Cassia Roberta Malacrida Mayer, Joao Tadeu Ribeiro-Paes, Fernando Yutaka de Ferreira, Natalia Alves Zoppe, Lucineia dos Santos
Summary: In this study, the toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of pequi pulp residue (EPPR) were analyzed. The results showed that EPPR has high anti-inflammatory activity and no toxicity, suggesting that a new herbal medicine with anti-inflammatory activity can be developed from discarded pequi residue.
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Rafael do Valle Melo, Anderson do Espirito Santo Pereira, Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto, Gerson Araujo de Medeiros
Summary: Life cycle assessment and economic performance analysis were used to evaluate the eco-efficiency transition of two laboratory-scale synthesis processes for polymeric nanoparticles containing atrazine. The NPr process showed lower environmental impact and cost compared to the DEm process, indicating higher eco-efficiency for the production of NPo + ATZ.
ACS AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Rodrigo Fernandes Castanha, Anderson do Espirito Santo Pereira, Gabriela Patricia Unigarro Villarreal, Jose Henrique Vallim, Fernanda Sana Pertrini, Claudio Martin Jonsson, Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto, Vera Lucia Scherholz Salgado de Castro
Summary: This study evaluated the toxicological effects of two different atrazine nanoformulations in different biological models and compared the results with nanoparticle stability over time and the presence of natural organic matter (NOM). The results showed that nanoparticle stability and the presence of NOM can modulate toxic effects and reduce ecotoxicity. The stability of nanoparticles should be considered in toxicity protocol guidelines to ensure authentic results regarding nanopesticide effects.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Amina Antonacci, Valeria Frisulli, Lucas Braganca Carvalho, Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto, Bruno Miranda, Luca De Stefano, Udo Johanningmeier, Maria Teresa Giardi, Viviana Scognamiglio
Summary: A completely green biosensor was designed using eco-friendly materials to detect herbicides encapsulated in biodegradable nanoparticles for sustainable agriculture. The nanocarriers delivered herbicides to the correct location, reducing their impact on plants and the agricultural and food industries. Comprehensive information about nanoformulated herbicides in agricultural fields is crucial to support farmers in decision-making.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Agronomy
Mariana Guilger-Casagrande, Bianca Bertolini Migliorini, Tais Germano-Costa, Natalia Bilesky-Jose, Liliam Katsue Harada, Estefania Vangelie Ramos Campos, Kelly Cristina Goncalves, Ricardo Antonio Polanczyk, Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto, Renata Lima
Summary: Biogenic metallic and oxide metal nanoparticles show potential for controlling caterpillars in agriculture. Physico-chemical characteristics of capped and uncapped nanoparticles differ, with uncapped nanoparticles showing higher aggregation and lower stability. Tests on cell lines showed no cytotoxic effects, but uncapped nanoparticles caused more intense DNA damage. Both capped and uncapped nanoparticles were effective in controlling Noctuidae pests, with uncapped iron oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles causing higher mortality. Sublethal effects were observed on Helicoverpa armigera, while Spodoptera frugiperda showed low susceptibility to the nanoparticles.
PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Estefania V. R. Campos, Jonathan Ratko, Ngangom Bidyarani, Vanessa Takeshita, Leonardo F. Fraceto
Summary: Bioherbicides, known as nature-based herbicides, are vital for sustainable agriculture due to their ability to effectively inhibit weed growth. They enhance crop productivity by reducing competition for resources and are environmentally friendly, promoting eco-conscious farming practices. However, many bioherbicide compounds are unstable and vulnerable to environmental factors, making weed management challenging. Encapsulation techniques, particularly using polymers, offer advantages such as improved efficacy, sustainable release, and protection against environmental degradation. This study focuses on the latest developments in encapsulating bioherbicides into micro-/nanoparticles for weed management, utilizing micro-/nanotechnology to enhance application and efficacy, thus facilitating sustainable agricultural practices.
ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Jhones Luiz de Oliveira, Thayla Nespola de Oliveira, Susilaine Maira Savassa, Jaqueline Franciosi Della Vechia, Sidneia Terezinha Soares de Matos, Daniel Junior de Andrade, Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto
Summary: In this study, microencapsulated formulations of B. bassiana using a spray-drying technique were successfully developed and their physicochemical properties and biological activity against spider mites were evaluated. The results showed that microencapsulated formulations increased the efficacy of B. bassiana and even low conidial concentrations resulted in high mite mortality rates. These findings demonstrate the potential of microencapsulation in improving the effectiveness of biocontrol agents.
ACS AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Lucas Braganca Carvalho, Isabela Silva Godoy, Ana Cristina Preisler, Patricia Luiza de Freitas Proenca, Telma Saraiva-Santos, Waldiceu Aparecido Verri Jr, Halley Caixeta Oliveira, Giliardi Dalazen, Leonardo Fernandes Fraceto
Summary: In this study, zein nanoparticles associated with the herbicide atrazine were developed and their efficacy in weed control was evaluated. The nanoformulation showed good stability and encapsulation efficiency. It exhibited greater effectiveness against the target plant, Brassica juncea, even at low doses, without causing toxicity to the crop species. The nanoparticles were captured and accumulated in roots but had limited transportation to the shoot. The atrazine nanoencapsulation did not increase the mobility of the herbicide in the soil.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE-NANO
(2023)