Phytochemistry Reviews最新文献

Nutrition issues and the increase in food allergy diseases experienced in recent years have encouraged part of the worldwide population to seek foods that, in addition to nourishing, can benefit their health, such as foods abundant in bioactive compounds. In this context, our objective was to conduct a review to emphasize the richness of the biodiversity of the Brazilian flora concerning the presence of bioactive compounds, their pharmacological applications, and their extraction characteristics. This narrative review screened the databases and identified 120 research articles published on the topic. These articles were analyzed to examine associated parameters such as the availability and applications of these bioactive compounds. These compounds exhibit therapeutic properties, such as antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory effects, with multiple benefits to health and treating illnesses. In addition, the methods for extracting bioactive compounds must be constantly improved to increase their purity and yield because these metabolites are present in complex media. Addressing these issues is essential for improving the overall experience of health-conscious individuals.

The plant genus Garcinia, which belongs to the Clusiaceae family, was discovered to have excellent sources of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential and, therefore received significant attention due to its potential for medicinal properties. In the twenty-first century, one of the most crucial threats to global health, food security, and development is antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The alarming surge in AMR transcends geographical and demographic boundaries, impacting individuals of all ages and nationalities. This phenomenon renders previously effective antibiotics increasingly powerless against a growing tide of resistant bacterial infections, posing a significant public health challenge. Notably, the compilation of extract and bioactive compounds from Garcinia species that have potent antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria strains by the study of previous research reported in this review. Apart from that, the structure-antibacterial activity relationship for the class of specialized compounds also had been discussed. In addition, this study employed advanced molecular modelling simulations conducted by the authors to explore the mechanism of microbial pathways of isolated compounds that lead to strong antibacterial activity. Based on this comprehensive review, bioactive compounds isolated from Garcinia species emerge as promising candidates for spearheading the development of novel antibacterial agents. Their potential merits were further investigated through in vitro and in vivo studies to fully elucidate their efficacy and safety profiles.

The total ban on antibiotics as growth promoters in livestock nutrition, introduced in EU (European Union) countries on 1 January 2006, presented animal nutritionists with a considerable challenge in finding alternatives. First, the additives had to protect animals’ digestive tracts from pathogenic bacteria, and second, they should be inert in relation to the animals’ bodies. After many experiments, phytobiotics seem like they may be an effective alternative. This article aims to review key scientific articles relating to the use of phytobiotics of various origins in the feeding of chickens for fattening. The review of the available literature brings together the most important research findings on the effects of phytobiotic supplementation on growth performance, gut microbiota, antioxidant status and immune system of broiler chickens. Phytobiotics are natural plant substances produced to protect plants against pathogenic microorganisms. Phytobiotics are classified as a group of biologically active compounds with a broad chemical diversity and may include terpenes, triterpenes and flavonoids. Based on the collected information, it can be concluded that the use of phytobiotics in appropriate quantities and proportions in feed for broiler chickens influences the proper functioning of the digestive tract by, among other things, stimulating beneficial microbiota and secretion of digestive enzymes. In addition, the introduction of such feed additives has an impact on the alleviation of inflammation, supports the functioning of the immune system and has a positive influence on production results.

The hepatic regulatory role in metabolism involves exposure to a diverse array of xenobiotic compounds leading to the potential accumulation of harmful toxins and subsequent manifestation of hepatic conditions such as steatosis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. Herbs as part of culinary and traditional uses have demonstrated therapeutic effects against such conditions. Predominant among the dietary constituents are polyphenols and terpenoids, which are known for their liver-protective efficacies. Evident from their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and modulation of antioxidant enzymes this class of phytochemicals regulates pivotal liver biomarkers. Ocimum species, notably Tulsi, are recognized for their abundant repertoire of terpenoids and polyphenols. From time immemorial, owing to its diverse biological properties, the Ocimum species has made its way into our culinary habits and traditions. Clinical findings have indicated the beneficial effects of Ocimum sanctum on the biochemical parameters of the liver in young overweight/obese subjects. However, despite several pre-clinical, and clinical studies elucidating the hepatoprotective potential of Ocimum species, a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying the actions of phenolic and terpenoid phytoconstituents is lacking till date. Consequently, targeted molecular therapies involving Ocimum species are yet to be developed. Thus, this mechanistic review was aimed at elucidating the intricate molecular pathways through which polyphenols and terpenoids derived from Ocimum species exert their hepatoprotective effects. By correlating these molecular mechanisms, insights into the hepatoprotective abilities of polyphenols and terpenoids found in Ocimum species were provided, which may pave the way for potential targeted therapeutic interventions.

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Plants display tremendous chemical diversity. Like all organisms, they possess a core set of metabolites for growth and development. However, plants are notorious for their specialized chemical repertoire. Biologically active specialized metabolites enable plants to interact with their environment and provide humans with diverse medicines. Specialized metabolites are derived from core metabolites, often using enzymes that evolved from core pathways in a lineage-specific manner. Biochemical understanding of plant specialized metabolic pathways provides insight into the evolutionary origins of chemical diversity and tools for engineering the production of biologically active metabolites. Acylsugars are a class of specialized metabolites occurring widely in the Solanaceae and other plant families where they contribute to fitness. Although assembled from simple core metabolic precursors, sugars and acyl chains, tremendous acylsugar structural diversity is observed across the Solanaceae family. Enzymes that catalyze the esterification of acyl chains to sugar cores have been well characterized from phylogenetically diverse species, and their biochemical diversity contributes to acylsugar structural variation. The upstream metabolic pathways that provide the acyl chain precursors also contribute to acylsugar structural variation. Yet, biochemical and genetic understanding of these upstream biosynthetic pathways is less well known. Here, we focus on recent advances in acyl chain biosynthesis and elongation pathways, the subcellular distribution of acylsugar biosynthesis, and how biochemical innovations in acylsugar biosynthesis contribute to structural diversity specifically focusing on Solanaceae-type acylsugars.

Calotropis gigantea (L.) W.T. Aiton, a common barren land weed, referred to as Giant Milkweed, has attracted considerable attention due to its rich abundance of phytochemicals possessing potent insecticidal properties. The review extensively explores the varied spectrum of chemical compounds present in C. gigantea, ranging from giganticine and ethion to stigmastan-6,22-dien,3,5-dedihydro-, β-amyrin, and others, offering detailed explanation about their structural diversity and potential applications. The primary focus is on a detailed evaluation of the insecticidal properties shown by these compounds against a wide range of insects, which collectively reinforce the natural insecticidal effectiveness of C. gigantea. This diligent study provides a thorough understanding on the individual effects of the compounds against insects, revealing their vital role in the development of innovative pest management strategies. This review aims to seek a comprehensive overview of the chemical constituents within this botanical resource that give a deep knowledge on their insecticidal characteristics. The ultimate aim is to pave the way for future research and practical applications in integrated pest management practices, contributing to the sustainable agriculture.

The Hypecoum genus belongs to the family Papaveraceae, consists of roughly 16 accepted species, and is extensively distributed from the Mediterranean to Central Asia and Northern China. It was used widely for the treatment of sore throat, tracheitis, cough, hepatitis, bronchitis, bacterial dysentery, and conjunctive congestion with swelling and pain disease in traditional Chinese and other countries’ medicine, especially in Tibetan or Mongolian medicine. Based on “Hypecoum”, a total of 163 relevant papers published since 1924 were meticulously selected through comprehensive searches of the American Chemical Society (ACS), PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct databases. Modern pharmacological researches have evaluated its various biological activities, such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, and antiproliferative activities, even the assessment of its potential for mitigating the impact of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Approximately 100 alkaloids have been obtained and identified from the Hypecoum species, as well as flavonoid, volatile oil, phenolic, and aromatic compounds. Additionally, the Hypecoum species is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulae, partial efficacies of which have been verified via numerous pharmacological and clinical investigations, particularly in the treatment of inflammatory and pain diseases. This reviews performed an exhaustive literature review to bridge the knowledge gap that there has yet to be a comprehensive and systematic review addressing the botany, traditional uses, phytochemicals, pharmacological effects, and underlying mechanisms associated with Hypecoum genus. The ultimate aim is to facilitate a solid foundation for the modern research and development of Hypecoum spp., thereby contributing to scientific advancement and enhancing the existing literature in this field.

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Grape pomace (seeds, skin, and stalks) holds promise as a feedstock for various industrial applications. This comprehensive review describes advancements in sustainable and novel extraction processes for recovering polyphenolic compounds and their biological properties. In contrast to traditional methods, sustainable extraction techniques such as microwave-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, pressurized liquid, enzyme-assisted, and hydrothermal processes have been applied to produce high-quality and safe extracts. These methods utilize non-toxic solvents, maintain moderate temperatures, achieve fast extraction times, and require low energy input. The polyphenolic compounds, particularly flavan-3-ols, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins extracted from grape pomace, exhibit a wide range of biological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, anticancer, antimicrobial, and heart health-promoting effects. They also contribute to enhancing the gut microbiota population, promoting health. In conclusion, emerging extraction methods offer a sustainable approach to producing bioactive compounds from grape pomace for use in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries.

With around 34 recognized species, Symphytum genus (comfrey) has a noteworthy position within the Boraginaceae family. Comfrey species have been empirically used since ancient times as wound-healing and skin-regenerating agents in ulcers, wounds, bone fractures, and rheumatic complaints. This review aims to provide a thorough examination of recent scientific advances and challenges within the Symphytum genus, covering data published between 2013 and 2023. It delivers an updated overview of the taxonomy, ethnopharmacological uses, chemical composition, and pharmacological activities of the genus. Special emphasis is put on molecular identification methods for species taxonomy, emerging extraction technologies for comfrey phytochemicals, metabolomics techniques for mapping chemical complexity, modern bioassay platforms revealing its poly-pharmacology, formulation strategies, and remediation approaches for removal of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). For instance, recent metabolomic studies employing advanced spectro-chromatographic techniques have revealed a diverse chemical composition of comfrey plants, including polysaccharides, allantoin, benzoic and cinnamic acid derivatives, flavonoids, fatty acids, and unsaturated necine-structure-based PAs. The mechanisms underlying their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, wound-healing, anti-irritant, and osteo-regenerative properties were targeted in modern pharmacological setups. Thus, key compounds like allantoin, rosmarinic acid, globoidnans A and B, rabdosiin, and comfreyn A, have been identified as significant contributors to the anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects of Symphytum-derived preparations. Despite their well-established clinical use, concerns about PAs-induced toxicity have prompted the development of novel PA remediation strategies, enabling the production of comfrey extracts with enhanced safety profiles that can meet the regulatory standards imposed by authorities.