Article
Chemistry, Applied
Shutian Wu, Danyu Shen, Ruohui Wang, Qingyang Li, Runhong Mo, Yuewen Zheng, Ye Zhou, Yihua Liu
Summary: The majority of phenolic compounds in walnut kernels exist in the free form, showing high radical scavenging activity. There is a strong correlation between the antioxidant activities of phenolics and their contents. Acetone is effective for extracting soluble phenolics, while methanol is better for extracting insoluble bound phenolics.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Hawraz Ibrahim M. Amin, Faiq H. S. Hussain, Soran K. Najmaldin, Zaw Min Thu, Mohammed Farhad Ibrahim, Gianluca Gilardoni, Giovanni Vidari
Summary: A study found that Iris species are commonly used as traditional remedies in Kurdistan, especially for treating inflammations. Phytochemical studies are limited, but extracts of Iris postii collected in Kurdistan showed significant antioxidant activities. The isolated compounds from Iris postii support its traditional medicinal use.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Seom Lee, Chang Ha Park, Jin Kyung Kim, Kyungmin Ahn, Haejin Kwon, Jae Kwang Kim, Sang Un Park, Hyeon Ji Yeo
Summary: This study found that white LEDs are suitable for carotenoid production, while blue LEDs are efficient in increasing the accumulation of phenolics and their biological activities in kale microgreens.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sezen Yilmaz Sarialtin, Ozlem Bahadir Acikara
Summary: This study analyzed the phytochemical content and biological activities of three endemic Scorzonera species in Turkey. The results showed that these plant extracts contained abundant flavonoids and caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, with higher amounts found in the aerial parts of S. coriacea. S. coriacea aerial parts exhibited the strongest inhibitory activities on ABTS and DPPH radicals.
CHEMISTRY & BIODIVERSITY
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Tuba Acet, Cengiz Corbaci, Kadriye Ozcan
Summary: The study found that the extracts of Corydalis oppositifolia and Senecio cilicius have antimicrobial and radical scavenging activities, as well as high levels of flavonoids and phenolic acids. These plants and their extracts have the potential to be used in the treatment of diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Touka Letaief, Stefania Garzoli, Valentina Laghezza Masci, Jamel Mejri, Manef Abderrabba, Antonio Tiezzi, Elisa Ovidi
Summary: The Tunisian Ziziphus lotus plant was studied, revealing its phytoconstituents and biological activities. The methanolic extract of dried roots showed high levels of phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins, while the aqueous extract of roots exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity. Additionally, the cytotoxic activity against SH-SY5Y cell line was evaluated, with the petroleum ether and dichloromethane extracts of dried roots demonstrating significant activities.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Carmen Gabriela Constantin, Mihaela Maria Zugravu, Mihaela Georgescu, Mugurasi Florin Constantin, Andrei Mot, Maria Paraschiv, Aurora Dobrin
Summary: Intensive agriculture and climate change have caused nutrient soil depletion and salinization of agricultural lands, affecting the food industry. Therefore, finding sustainable alternative solutions that meet consumer needs and food production is crucial. Salt-tolerant plants, such as Salicornia europaea L., show promise as a solution. This study investigated the adaptability of Salicornia europaea L. on different cultivation substrates by monitoring plant indicators and highlighted the correlation between polyphenol and mineral contents.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Leilei Zhang, Gokhan Zengin, Gabriele Rocchetti, Ismail Senkardes, Jugreet B. Sharmeen, Mohamad Fawzi Mahomoodally, Tapan Behl, Youssef Rouphael, Luigi Lucini
Summary: In this study, extracts from Rhinanthus angustifolius subsp. grandiflorus were obtained using different extraction techniques and solvents, and evaluated for their antioxidant and enzyme-inhibiting properties. Methanol extracts showed the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents and radical-scavenging antioxidant capacity. Water extracts demonstrated the highest metal chelating activity. Additionally, the extracts showed different enzyme inhibition potentials, with water extracts exhibiting weaker inhibition. This suggests that R. angustifolius is a promising source of natural antioxidants and enzyme inhibitors for pharmaceutical purposes.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Ivana Carev, Cengiz Sarikurkcu
Summary: The study demonstrated the significant antioxidant activity of the endemic Stachys species S. cretica ssp. anatolica in Turkey. The extracts of this plant are rich in polyphenols, showing strong activity against antioxidant enzymes and potential therapeutic effects for skin disorders and diabetes.
Review
Food Science & Technology
Luisa Custodio, Maria Joao Rodrigues, Catarina G. Pereira, Viana Castaneda-Loaiza, Eliana Fernandes, Dominic Standing, Amir Neori, Muki Shpigel, Moshe Sagi
Summary: Sarcocornia, a halophytic edible succulent plant, is a promising gourmet vegetable with high economic potential. It can be cultivated in saline conditions, harvested year-round, and has nutritional, organoleptic, and medicinal properties that make it suitable for various biotechnology applications.
Article
Plant Sciences
Hafedh Hajlaoui, Soumaya Arraouadi, Hedi Mighri, Siwar Ghannay, Kaiss Aouadi, Mohd Adnan, Abdelbaset Mohamed Elasbali, Emira Noumi, Mejdi Snoussi, Adel Kadri
Summary: This study evaluated the phytochemical constituents and biological properties of three extracts of Arthrocnemum indicum (ethanol, acetone, and hexane). The ethanol extract showed the highest content of polyphenols and flavonoids, as well as potent antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. It also exhibited significant cytotoxicity against colon adenocarcinoma cells and possessed antidiabetic effects.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Shirley L. Sampaio, Spyridon A. Petropoulos, Maria Ines Dias, Carla Pereira, Ricardo C. Calhelha, Angela Fernandes, Camila M. M. Leme, Alexios Alexopoulos, Celestino Santos-Buelga, Isabel C. F. R. Ferreira, Lillian Barros
Summary: This study provides a detailed analysis of non-anthocyanin and anthocyanin phenolic compounds in potato peels from ten colored potato varieties, as well as a comprehensive evaluation of their antioxidant, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory potentials. The findings indicate that caffeic acid and caffeoylquinic acid were the most abundant non-anthocyanin phenolics in all samples, along with the presence of O-glycosylated flavonol derivatives and polyamine derivatives. Additionally, acylated anthocyanins were identified in red and purple varieties, with pelargonidin, peonidin, and malvidin being the most prominent aglycones detected. All samples demonstrated antioxidant and antitumor activities, with no observed toxicity, while the Rosemary variety exhibited the highest antioxidant and antitumor effects and was the only sample to show anti-inflammatory activity. These results have significant implications for the food industry in terms of utilizing potato peel as a natural ingredient in novel food and pharmaceutical formulations.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Inci Kurt-Celep, Dimitrina Zheleva-Dimitrova, Reneta Gevrenova, Abdullahi Ibrahim Uba, Gokhan Zengin, Evren Yildiztugay, Carene Marie Nancy Picot-Allain, Jose Manuel Lorenzo, Mohamad Fawzi Mahomoodally, Domenico Montesano
Summary: The biological activity of Primula auriculata was assessed for the first time, revealing its high antioxidant and enzyme inhibition properties, as well as its potential therapeutic effects against colorectal cancer.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Le Zhang, Qiang Wang, Yayun Zhao, Juan Ge, Dajun He
Summary: This study investigated the phenolic components and their antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities in the fruits of Meyer's Gooseberry. Using HPLC-QTOF-MS/MS, a total of 42 phenolic components, including 26 anthocyanins, 9 flavonoids, and 7 phenolic acids, were identified. The main anthocyanin, cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside, was quantified using UPLC-MS/MS. The anthocyanin fraction of Meyer's Gooseberry fruits exhibited significant inhibitory activity on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, and also increased glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.
Article
Plant Sciences
Milan Stankovic, Zorica Stojanovic-Radic, Dragana Jakovljevic, Nenad Zlatic, Milica Lukovic, Zora Dajic-Stevanovic
Summary: This study compared the content of secondary metabolites, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity of 24 halophytes from coastal saline habitats in the Balkan Peninsula. The results showed that some of these halophytes have rich phenolic compounds and favorable antioxidative and antimicrobial properties.
Article
Plant Sciences
Rim Ben Mansour, Hanen Wasli, Raja Serairi-Beji, Soumaya Bourgou, Sarra Dakhlaoui, Sawssen Selmi, Saber Khamessi, Majdi Hammami, Riadh Ksouri, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri
Summary: Six Tunisian medicinal plants were screened and compared for their phenolic compounds, antioxidant activities, anti-inflammatory effects, and gastro-protective effects. Among the species studied, Myrtus communis exhibited the highest phenolic contents and antioxidant capacities, as well as notable anti-inflammatory and gastro-protective effects. The results suggest that these plants, especially Myrtus communis, are valuable sources of natural agents with potential benefits for human health, particularly in the treatment of inflammation and gastric diseases.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ons Sefi, Soumaya Bourgou, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri, Mohamed Libiad, Abdelmajid Khabbach, Mohamed El Haissoufi, Fatima Lamchouri, Nikos Krigas, Zeineb Ghrabi-Gammar
Summary: This study investigated for the first time the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and enzyme inhibitory activities of the Tunisian endemic plants L. boitardii and L. cercinense. The results showed that L. cercinense exhibited strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, with both species showing high activity in tyrosinase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition tests, particularly L. cercinense. These two plants are valuable new natural sources for cosmetic and pharmacological applications.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Sarra Dakhlaoui, Soumaya Bourgou, Sarra Bachkouel, Rim Ben Mansour, Mariem Ben Jemaa, Slim Jallouli, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri, Kamel Hessini, Kamel Msaada
Summary: This research aimed to investigate the variation in the chemical composition and biological activities of P. halepensis needle essential oils. The study found significant variability among the different oils, with caryophyllene, phenyl isovalerate, beta-myrcene, and alpha-pinene being the main identified compounds. It was also demonstrated that the oil from Tabouba exhibited the highest antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and alpha-glucosidase inhibition activities.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Feten Zar Kalai, Mondher Boulaaba, Farhana Ferdousi, Hiroko Isoda
Summary: Diabetes mellitus, especially type 2 (T2DM), is a global public health problem. Isorhamnetin, a plant flavonoid, has been studied for its potential anti-diabetic effects. It has been shown to reduce glucose levels, improve oxidative status, alleviate inflammation, and modulate lipid metabolism and adipocyte differentiation by regulating signaling pathways.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Elias Pipinis, Stefanos Hatzilazarou, Stefanos Kostas, Soumaya Bourgou, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri, Zeineb Ghrabi-Gammar, Mohamed Libiad, Abdelmajid Khabbach, Mohamed El Haissoufi, Fatima Lamchouri, Emmanouil Koundourakis, Vasileios Greveniotis, Evgenia Papaioannou, Michalia A. Sakellariou, Ioannis Anestis, Georgios Tsoktouridis, Nikos Krigas
Summary: This study provides a detailed ecological profiling for the Tunisian endemic plant Marrubium ascheronii, including its wild habitat conditions and the effect of temperature on seed germination. The findings may inform cultivation guidelines and enable conservation and sustainable exploitation strategies for this plant.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Rim Ben Mansour, Raja Serairi Beji, Hanen Wasli, Sami Zekri, Riadh Ksouri, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri, Susana M. Cardoso
Summary: Microencapsulated Myrtus communis L. essential oil showed significant gastroprotective activity in a rat model of gastric ulcer, potentially due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Article
Biology
Stefanos Kostas, Stefanos Hatzilazarou, Elias Pipinis, Soumaya Bourgou, Imtinen Ben Haj Jilani, Wafa Ben Othman, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri, Zeineb Ghrabi-Gammar, Mohamed Libiad, Abdelmajid Khabbach, Mohamed El Haissoufi, Fatima Lamchouri, Emmanouil Koundourakis, Vasileios Greveniotis, Evgenia Papaioannou, Michalia A. Sakellariou, Ioannis Anestis, Georgios Tsoktouridis, Nikos Krigas
Summary: This study focused on the Tunisian local endemic Teucrium luteum subsp. gabesianum, using Geographical Information Systems and online databases to create a detailed ecological profile for the taxon. The study also investigated the effect of temperature on seed germination and explored the growth response of seedlings to different types of fertilizers. The use of DNA barcoding provided insights into the taxonomic circumscription of Teucrium taxa, enabling future traceability and product design. Overall, this multidisciplinary approach bridged research gaps and highlighted the potential value of the plant for medicinal, cosmetic, agro-alimentary, and ornamental purposes.
Article
Plant Sciences
Imene Rajhi, Mondher Boulaaba, Bechir Baccouri, Fatma Rajhi, Jamila Hammami, Fathi Barhoumi, Guido Flamini, Haythem Mhadhbi
Summary: The effects of dehulling and milling of seeds on the volatiles, phenolic constituents, and antioxidant activities of two Vicia faba L. cultivars were evaluated. The results showed that dehulling treatment affected the volatiles profile of seeds and flours, as well as the antioxidant capacity, but did not affect the total phenols, flavonoids, and tannins contents.
SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF BOTANY
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Abdelkarim Ben Arfa, Mondher Boulaaba, Faten Merhi, Brigitte Bauvois, Arnault Ingrid, Jacques Auger, Mohamed Neffati, Hanen Najjaa
Summary: Epidemiological studies support the proposition that Allium vegetables can lower the risk of cancer. This study found that extracts from Allium roseum inhibit the growth of acute leukemia cells without inducing apoptosis, while promoting cell differentiation.
FOOD SCIENCE & NUTRITION
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Amira Richane, Ben Mansour Rim, Megdiche Wided, Ksouri Riadh, Attia Khaoula, Moujahed Nizar, Ben Ismail Hanen
Summary: This study analyzed the phytochemical content and antioxidant activities of carob pulp samples from ten different geographic regions in Tunisia. The results showed significant variations in the content of phenolic compounds between the analyzed samples, with different geographic origins affecting the concentrations of major phenolics. Carob pulp extracts exhibited substantial antioxidant activities, which were correlated to their phenolic contents.
BIOCHEMICAL SYSTEMATICS AND ECOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mariem BenJemaa, Fatma Zohra Rahali, Hanen Falleh, Raja Beji-Serairi, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri, Ibtissem Hamrouni, Majdi Hammami, Ralph Nehme, Renato B. Pereira, Sonia Andres, Said Bouhallab, David M. Pereira, Fabrizio Ceciliani, Latifa Abdennebi-Najar, Riadh Ksouri
Summary: This study aimed to optimize the encapsulation of Thymus capitatus essential oil into nanoemulsion. The results showed that the encapsulated nanoemulsion exhibited improved stability, antimicrobial efficacy, and sensory appreciation in enriched milk.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Safa Dghais, Mariem Ben Jemaa, Maryem Chouchen, Selim Jallouli, Riadh Ksouri, Hanen Falleh
Summary: This study aims to evaluate cinnamon and curcuma essential oils as natural preservatives in minced beef meat. Chemical compositions and antibacterial activities of the oils were studied, and their encapsulation in nano-emulsions was optimized. The effects of the oils and nanoemulsions on meat preservation were evaluated.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Nermine Nefzi, Stefania Pagliari, Luca Campone, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri, Filippo Giarratana, Nicola Cicero, Graziella Ziino, Luca Nalbone
Summary: This study evaluated the chemical composition and in vitro antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of ethanol extract of propolis (EEP) from Tunisia against different bacterial strains. The antimicrobial activity of EEP in chilled vacuum-packed salmon tartare was also assessed. The results showed that the EEP demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria, especially L. monocytogenes and S. aureus. In situ analyses revealed significant antimicrobial activity when EEP was used in combination with vinegar. The study suggests that propolis could be used as a biopreservative to improve the safety and quality of food.
Article
Horticulture
Rim Ben Mansour, Hanen Falleh, Nermine Nefzi, Sarra Dakhlaoui, Sawssen Selmi, Majdi Hammami, Lillian Barros, Spyridon A. Petropoulos, Neji Tarchoun, Riadh Ksouri
Summary: This study optimized solvent combinations to obtain refined extracts from squash peels with enhanced antioxidant properties. The extracts exhibited rich phenolic content and significant antimicrobial activities, suggesting their potential use as natural antimicrobial agents.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Rim Ben Mansour, Hanen Wasli, Soumaya Bourgou, Saber Khamessi, Riadh Ksouri, Wided Megdiche-Ksouri, Susana M. Cardoso
Summary: This study investigated the anti-cancer, anti-tyrosinase, and antioxidant activities of essential oils derived from berries and leaves of wild-grown Juniperus phoenicea in northern Tunisia. The results demonstrated that these essential oils have significant potential in combating cancer, inhibiting tyrosinase activity, and providing antioxidant effects. Additionally, the study revealed the ability of the oils to inhibit melanin synthesis.
