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Leaves extracts from Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. are widely used in traditional medicine exhibiting several in vivo biological activities, including antidiabetic. Several flavonoids, including aglycones and glycosides, were reported in this plant and previous studies suggested that flavonoids may interact with targets related to diabetes. Evaluated the hypoglycemic activity of C. citratus flavonoids through α-glucosidase inhibition and assess the structure-activity relationship using molecular docking studies. An infusion of C. citratus leaves and its flavonoid-rich fraction were prepared. Five flavonoids from this fraction were isolated and structurally characterized by UV spectral analysis with shift reagents, HPLC-PDA-ESI/MSn and 1H NMR. The antidiabetic potential of C. citratus infusion, its flavonoid-rich fraction, glycosylated flavonoids and aglycones was evaluated trough the in vitro inhibition of yeast α-glucosidase. Posteriorly, molecular docking of the tested flavonoids was performed to investigate its possible interactions with the α-glucosidase pocket. The infusion of C. citratus, its flavonoid-rich fraction, luteolin and five flavone glycosides namely, luteolin 6-C-β-glucopyranoside (isoorientin), luteolin 7-O-neohesperidoside (ionicerin), luteolin 7-O-β-glucopyranoside (cynaroside), Luteolin 2″-O-rhamnosyl-C-(6-deoxy-ribo-hexos-3-ulosyl) (cassiaoccidentalin B), luteolin 6-C-α-arabinofuranosil-(1→2)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (kurilesin A) showed higher inhibitory activity than the reference drug. This activity increased by the addition of a sugar moiety. However, the di-glycosides were less active than mono-glycosides. The docking studies showed interactions of sugar moieties and A or B rings with the catalytic pocket mainly through hydrogen bonds. Our results corroborate the potential of C. citratus as a medicinal plant for the treatment of diabetes and revealed that its flavonoid glycosides has hypoglycemic effect and can be explored as drug candidates to act as α-glucosidase inhibitors in the treatment of diabetes.
Pedro H.O. Borges; Sónia Pedreiro; Salete J. Baptista; Carlos F.G.C. Geraldes; M.T. Batista; Maria M.C. Silva; Artur Figueirinha. Inhibition of α-glucosidase by flavonoids of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 2021, 280, 114470 .
AMA StylePedro H.O. Borges, Sónia Pedreiro, Salete J. Baptista, Carlos F.G.C. Geraldes, M.T. Batista, Maria M.C. Silva, Artur Figueirinha. Inhibition of α-glucosidase by flavonoids of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2021; 280 ():114470.
Chicago/Turabian StylePedro H.O. Borges; Sónia Pedreiro; Salete J. Baptista; Carlos F.G.C. Geraldes; M.T. Batista; Maria M.C. Silva; Artur Figueirinha. 2021. "Inhibition of α-glucosidase by flavonoids of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf." Journal of Ethnopharmacology 280, no. : 114470.
Cymbopogon citratus DC (Stapf.) is a perennial grass and it is distributed around the world. It is used as a condiment for food and beverage flavouring in the form of infusions and decoctions of its dried leaves. Our previous studies have shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective activities for the infusion and its phenolic fractions. The aim of the present work was to develop oral dosage forms from a Cymbopogon citratus extract to be used as a functional food with antioxidant properties. Initially, an essential oil-free infusion was prepared, lyophilized and characterized by HPLC-PDA. Total phenols were quantified with the Folin–Ciocalteu method and the antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH assay. Gelatine capsules containing the extract with different excipients, selected after DSC and IR trials, were prepared. A formulation exhibiting better antioxidant behaviour in a gastric environment was attained. These results suggest that the proposed formulation for this extract could be a valuable antioxidant product and, consequently, make an important contribution to “preventing” and minimizing diseases related to oxidative stress conditions.
Raquel Sousa; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Batista; Maria Pina. Formulation Effects in the Antioxidant Activity of Extract from the Leaves of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. Molecules 2021, 26, 4518 .
AMA StyleRaquel Sousa, Artur Figueirinha, Maria Batista, Maria Pina. Formulation Effects in the Antioxidant Activity of Extract from the Leaves of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. Molecules. 2021; 26 (15):4518.
Chicago/Turabian StyleRaquel Sousa; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Batista; Maria Pina. 2021. "Formulation Effects in the Antioxidant Activity of Extract from the Leaves of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf." Molecules 26, no. 15: 4518.
Currently, the high food demand led to a mass agriculture practices, whereas crop productivity is one of the major concerns for the producers. However, the intensification of the use of synthetic fertilizers has led to serious harmful impacts for human health and for the environment. The quest for novel and natural agricultural products is a current trend, hence seaweed polysaccharide bioactivity can contribute for this pursuit. The seaweed principal carbohydrates (agar, carrageenan and alginate) were extracted and chemically characterized from five red seaweeds, namely Gracilaria gracilis (Slender wart weed), Asparagospis armata (Harpoon weed), Calliblepharis jubata (False eyelash weed), Chondracanthus teedei var. lusitanicus and Grateloupia turuturu (Devil's tongue weed); and three brown seaweeds Colpomenia peregrina (Oyster thief), Sargassum muticum (Wireweed) and Undaria pinnatifida (Wakame). Afterwards, it was evaluated the impact of these sulphated polysaccharides on kale (Brassica oleracea) growth. Among the polymers tested, iota-carrageenan (from Calliblepharis jubata), kappa/ iota-carrageenan (from the female gametophyte of Chondracanthus teedei var. lusitanicus) and agar (from Gracilaria gracilis) showed a positive effect on kale growth. Through the quantification of polysaccharides and uronic acids, it appears that the polymer chemical structure is the decisive factor that affects the plant biostimulant activity.
Diana Pacheco; João Cotas; Carolina P. Rocha; Glacio S. Araújo; Artur Figueirinha; Ana M.M. Gonçalves; Kiril Bahcevandziev; Leonel Pereira. Seaweeds’ carbohydrate polymers as plant growth promoters. Carbohydrate Polymer Technologies and Applications 2021, 2, 100097 .
AMA StyleDiana Pacheco, João Cotas, Carolina P. Rocha, Glacio S. Araújo, Artur Figueirinha, Ana M.M. Gonçalves, Kiril Bahcevandziev, Leonel Pereira. Seaweeds’ carbohydrate polymers as plant growth promoters. Carbohydrate Polymer Technologies and Applications. 2021; 2 ():100097.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDiana Pacheco; João Cotas; Carolina P. Rocha; Glacio S. Araújo; Artur Figueirinha; Ana M.M. Gonçalves; Kiril Bahcevandziev; Leonel Pereira. 2021. "Seaweeds’ carbohydrate polymers as plant growth promoters." Carbohydrate Polymer Technologies and Applications 2, no. : 100097.
Artemisia campestris L. is widely used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. A. campestris subsp. maritima Arcang., a halophyte plant (“madorneira” or “erva-lombrigueira” in Portugal), is traditionally used for gastric disorders, rheumatism and hypertension. The present study aims to characterize the essential oil (EO) and the hydrodistillation residual water (HRW), a by-product of the EO production, of Artemisia campestris subsp. maritima from Portugal and evaluate the antioxidant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities of both extracts at concentrations without toxicity. The phenolic profile of HRW was determined by HPLC-PDA-ESI/MSn and the EO was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC-FID and GC–MS). The antioxidant activity of both extracts were determined by several assays (ABTS, NO FRAP, β-carotene and DPPH). The antifungal activity (MIC and MLC) was evaluated against yeasts, dermatophytes and Aspergillus strains using broth macrodilution methods. The anti-inflammatory potential was determined measuring the nitric oxide (NO) production by stimulated mouse leukemic macrophages (RAW 264.7). Cell viability was evaluated for RAW 264.7 and mouse fibroblasts (NIH/3T3). The wound healing activity was evaluated in mouse fibroblasts (NIH/3T3) by the scratch assay. The HRW is mainly characterized by hydroxycinnamic acids and the essential oil is characterized by high amounts of β-pinene (54.5%), cadin-4-en-7-ol (9.5%), Z-β-ocimene (6.0%) and Ƴ-terpinene (4.6%). Both extracts showed high antioxidant potential in different assays. Additionally, only the hydrodistillation residual water showed anti-inflammatory activity (IC50 of 330 μg/mL). On the other hand, only the EO showed antifungal activity, particularly against Epidermophyton floccosum (MIC and MLC values of 0.16 μL/mL), and wound healing activity. Bothe extracts were not cytotoxic to macrophages The by-product HRW contains safe bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect and the EO shows antioxidant properties, antifungal activity against dermatophytes and wound healing effect in skin cells. Overall, our results support the interest and economic value of two extracts obtained from a Portuguese native species and provide scientific validation to some of its traditional uses.
Maria Inês Rocha; Maria José Gonçalves; Carlos Cavaleiro; Maria Teresa Cruz; Cláudia Pereira; Patrícia Moreira; Lígia Salgueiro; Artur Figueirinha. Chemical characterization and bioactive potential of Artemisia campestris L. subsp. maritima (DC) Arcang. essential oil and hydrodistillation residual water. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 2021, 276, 114146 .
AMA StyleMaria Inês Rocha, Maria José Gonçalves, Carlos Cavaleiro, Maria Teresa Cruz, Cláudia Pereira, Patrícia Moreira, Lígia Salgueiro, Artur Figueirinha. Chemical characterization and bioactive potential of Artemisia campestris L. subsp. maritima (DC) Arcang. essential oil and hydrodistillation residual water. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2021; 276 ():114146.
Chicago/Turabian StyleMaria Inês Rocha; Maria José Gonçalves; Carlos Cavaleiro; Maria Teresa Cruz; Cláudia Pereira; Patrícia Moreira; Lígia Salgueiro; Artur Figueirinha. 2021. "Chemical characterization and bioactive potential of Artemisia campestris L. subsp. maritima (DC) Arcang. essential oil and hydrodistillation residual water." Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276, no. : 114146.
Crepis vesicaria subsp. taraxacifolia (Cv) of Asteraceae family is used as food and in traditional medicine. However there are no studies on its nutritional value, phenolic composition and biological activities. In the present work, a nutritional analysis of Cv leaves was performed and its phenolic content and biological properties evaluated. The nutritional profile was achieved by gas chromatography (GC). A 70% ethanolic extract was prepared and characterized by HLPC-PDA-ESI/MSn. The quantification of chicoric acid was determined by HPLC-PDA. Subsequently, it was evaluated its antioxidant activity by DPPH, ABTS and FRAP methods. The anti-inflammatory activity and cellular viability was assessed in Raw 264.7 macrophages. On wet weight basis, carbohydrates were the most abundant macronutrients (9.99%), followed by minerals (2.74%) (mainly K, Ca and Na), protein (1.04%) and lipids (0.69%), with a low energetic contribution (175.19 KJ/100 g). The Cv extract is constituted essentially by phenolic acids as caffeic, ferulic and quinic acid derivatives being the major phenolic constituent chicoric acid (130.5 mg/g extract). The extract exhibited antioxidant activity in DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays and inhibited the nitric oxide (NO) production induced by LPS (IC50 = 0.428 ± 0.007 mg/mL) without cytotoxicity at all concentrations tested. Conclusions: Given the nutritional and phenolic profile and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Cv could be a promising useful source of functional food ingredients.
Sónia Pedreiro; Sandrine Da Ressurreição; Maria Lopes; Maria Teresa Cruz; Teresa Batista; Artur Figueirinha; Fernando Ramos. Crepis vesicaria L. subsp. taraxacifolia Leaves: Nutritional Profile, Phenolic Composition and Biological Properties. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2020, 18, 151 .
AMA StyleSónia Pedreiro, Sandrine Da Ressurreição, Maria Lopes, Maria Teresa Cruz, Teresa Batista, Artur Figueirinha, Fernando Ramos. Crepis vesicaria L. subsp. taraxacifolia Leaves: Nutritional Profile, Phenolic Composition and Biological Properties. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2020; 18 (1):151.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSónia Pedreiro; Sandrine Da Ressurreição; Maria Lopes; Maria Teresa Cruz; Teresa Batista; Artur Figueirinha; Fernando Ramos. 2020. "Crepis vesicaria L. subsp. taraxacifolia Leaves: Nutritional Profile, Phenolic Composition and Biological Properties." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 1: 151.
An emergent trend of blueberries’ (BB) “prophylactic” consumption, due to their phytochemicals’ richness and well-known health-promoting claims, is widely scaled-up. However, the benefits arising from BB indiscriminate intake remains puzzling based on incongruent preclinical and human data. To provide a more in-depth elucidation and support towards a healthier and safer consumption, we conducted a translation-minded experimental study in healthy Wistar rats that consumed BB in a juice form (25 g/kg body weight (BW)/day; 14 weeks’ protocol). Particular attention was paid to the physiological adaptations succeeding in the gut and liver tissues regarding the acknowledged BB-induced metabolic benefits. Systemically, BB boosted serum antioxidant activity and repressed the circulating levels of 3-hydroxybutyrate (3-HB) ketone bodies and 3-HB/acetoacetate ratio. Moreover, BB elicited increased fecal succinic acid levels without major changes on gut microbiota (GM) composition and gut ultra-structural organization. Remarkably, an accentuated hepatic mitochondrial bioenergetic challenge, ensuing metabolic transcriptomic reprogramming along with a concerted anti-inflammatory pre-conditioning, was clearly detected upon long-term consumption of BB phytochemicals. Altogether, the results disclosed herein portray a quiescent mitochondrial-related metabolomics and hint for a unified adaptive response to this nutritional challenge. The beneficial or noxious consequences arising from this dietary trend should be carefully interpreted and necessarily claims future research.
Sara Nunes; Sofia D. Viana; Inês Preguiça; André Alves; Rosa Fernandes; João S. Teodoro; Artur Figueirinha; Lígia Salgueiro; Sara Silva; Ivana Jarak; Rui A. Carvalho; Cláudia Cavadas; Anabela P. Rolo; Carlos M. Palmeira; Maria M. Pintado; Flávio Reis. Blueberry Consumption Challenges Hepatic Mitochondrial Bioenergetics and Elicits Transcriptomics Reprogramming in Healthy Wistar Rats. Pharmaceutics 2020, 12, 1094 .
AMA StyleSara Nunes, Sofia D. Viana, Inês Preguiça, André Alves, Rosa Fernandes, João S. Teodoro, Artur Figueirinha, Lígia Salgueiro, Sara Silva, Ivana Jarak, Rui A. Carvalho, Cláudia Cavadas, Anabela P. Rolo, Carlos M. Palmeira, Maria M. Pintado, Flávio Reis. Blueberry Consumption Challenges Hepatic Mitochondrial Bioenergetics and Elicits Transcriptomics Reprogramming in Healthy Wistar Rats. Pharmaceutics. 2020; 12 (11):1094.
Chicago/Turabian StyleSara Nunes; Sofia D. Viana; Inês Preguiça; André Alves; Rosa Fernandes; João S. Teodoro; Artur Figueirinha; Lígia Salgueiro; Sara Silva; Ivana Jarak; Rui A. Carvalho; Cláudia Cavadas; Anabela P. Rolo; Carlos M. Palmeira; Maria M. Pintado; Flávio Reis. 2020. "Blueberry Consumption Challenges Hepatic Mitochondrial Bioenergetics and Elicits Transcriptomics Reprogramming in Healthy Wistar Rats." Pharmaceutics 12, no. 11: 1094.
Seaweeds have attracted high interest in recent years due to their chemical and bioactive properties to find new molecules with valuable applications for humankind. Phenolic compounds are the group of metabolites with the most structural variation and the highest content in seaweeds. The most researched seaweed polyphenol class is the phlorotannins, which are specifically synthesized by brown seaweeds, but there are other polyphenolic compounds, such as bromophenols, flavonoids, phenolic terpenoids, and mycosporine-like amino acids. The compounds already discovered and characterized demonstrate a full range of bioactivities and potential future applications in various industrial sectors. This review focuses on the extraction, purification, and future applications of seaweed phenolic compounds based on the bioactive properties described in the literature. It also intends to provide a comprehensive insight into the phenolic compounds in seaweed.
João Cotas; Adriana Leandro; Pedro Monteiro; Diana Pacheco; Artur Figueirinha; Ana M. M. Gonçalves; Gabriela Jorge Da Silva; Leonel Pereira. Seaweed Phenolics: From Extraction to Applications. Marine Drugs 2020, 18, 384 .
AMA StyleJoão Cotas, Adriana Leandro, Pedro Monteiro, Diana Pacheco, Artur Figueirinha, Ana M. M. Gonçalves, Gabriela Jorge Da Silva, Leonel Pereira. Seaweed Phenolics: From Extraction to Applications. Marine Drugs. 2020; 18 (8):384.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJoão Cotas; Adriana Leandro; Pedro Monteiro; Diana Pacheco; Artur Figueirinha; Ana M. M. Gonçalves; Gabriela Jorge Da Silva; Leonel Pereira. 2020. "Seaweed Phenolics: From Extraction to Applications." Marine Drugs 18, no. 8: 384.
Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf has been traditionally used mainly for inflammatory diseases and hypertension. However, the mechanisms underlying its vascular activity remain to be fully characterized and the fractions responsible for its cardiovascular activity are still unknown. In this study, we aimed to assess the vascular activity of Cymbopogon citratus in human arteries and to study the role of cyclooxygenase in its vasorelaxant effects. Vascular effects of leaves infusion and three fractions (phenolic acids, flavonoids and tannins) were studied using distal segments of human internal thoracic arteries harvested from patients undergoing coronary revascularization, which were mounted as rings in tissue organ baths and maintained at 37 °C in Krebs Henseleit buffer. The effect on basal vascular tone, the effect on the noradrenaline-induced contraction and the vasorelaxant effects were assessed. The role of cyclooxygenase was evaluated with indomethacin. Our results showed a mild effect on the basal vessel tone of the infusion. A significant inhibition on the adrenergic-mediated vasoconstriction was observed for the infusion (0.0002 mg/mL) and the flavonoid fraction (0.2 mg/mL), despite a potentiation was observed in some conditions. A vasorelaxant effect was observed for both the infusion (6.46% of maximal relaxation) and the tannin fraction (26.91% of maximal relaxation, P < 0.05 vs. infusion). Incubation with indomethacin (10 μM) elicited a decrease in the vasorelaxation to the infusion (P < 0.05). These results suggest that cyclooxygenase may be involved in the vasorelaxation to the infusion of Cymbopogon citratus and that tannins are the compound fraction mainly responsible for this vasorelaxation.
Daniela M. Simões; Jéssica Malheiros; Pedro Engrácia Antunes; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Dulce Cotrim; Diogo A. Fonseca. Vascular activity of infusion and fractions of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. in human arteries. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 2020, 258, 112947 .
AMA StyleDaniela M. Simões, Jéssica Malheiros, Pedro Engrácia Antunes, Artur Figueirinha, Maria Dulce Cotrim, Diogo A. Fonseca. Vascular activity of infusion and fractions of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. in human arteries. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2020; 258 ():112947.
Chicago/Turabian StyleDaniela M. Simões; Jéssica Malheiros; Pedro Engrácia Antunes; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Dulce Cotrim; Diogo A. Fonseca. 2020. "Vascular activity of infusion and fractions of Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. in human arteries." Journal of Ethnopharmacology 258, no. : 112947.
Aromatic and medicinal plants, such as those from the Apiaceae family, and their metabolites, namely essential oils are of great industrial interest and a source of biologically relevant compounds. Essential oils are the major resource obtained during the hydrodistillation of aromatic plants, however, this process also originates high amounts of residual water. Although this by-product is discarded, it is conceivable that this water may be rich in non-volatile compounds which possess interesting biological properties. Therefore, the aim of this work is to analyze the oil and the hydrodistillation residual water of Crithmum maritimum L. (sea fennel), a highly aromatic plant widely used in many European countries and highlight the bioactive potential of both products. High performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detector-mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS/MS) analysis of the hydrodistillation residual water showed a profile rich in hydroxycinnamic acids and small amounts of flavone and flavonol glycosides. Chemical analysis of the essential oil by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-–MS) has revealed that γ-terpinene (33.6 %), sabinene (32.0 %) and thymol methyl ether (15.7 %) are the major compounds. The antioxidant potential of the residual water was disclosed by the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and a composition-activity relationship was unveiled by thin layer chromatography (TLC). The anti-inflammatory potential was demonstrated by using an in vitro model of inflammation (lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages). Furthermore, the antifungal potential was evaluated by the capacity to inhibit two important virulence factors in Candida albicans. Our results show that the residual water have a promising antioxidant potential as measured by DPPH scavenging assay (IC50 of 650 ± 160 μg/mL). Chlorogenic acid and quercetin derivatives found in the hydrodistillation residual water are the mainly contributors for this activity. The essential oil of C. maritimum (3.125 μg/mL) decreases the production of nitric oxide in LPS-stimulated macrophages by 37 % without affecting cell viability. In addition, the essential oil has a strong effect on virulence factors of C. albicans through inhibiting the formation of the germ tube by more than 50 % at 30 μg/mL besides, it is able to inhibit biofilm formation by decreasing both the biomass and the cell viability. Summing up, the present work highlights that the essential oil of Crithmum maritimum and the non-volatile extract rich in hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoid glycosides, obtained after the hydrodistillation process have important biological activities, thus endorsing the industrial exploitation of this plant.
Jorge M. Alves-Silva; Inês Guerra; Maria José Gonçalves; Carlos Cavaleiro; Maria Teresa Cruz; Artur Figueirinha; Lígia Salgueiro. Chemical composition of Crithmum maritimum L. essential oil and hydrodistillation residual water by GC-MS and HPLC-DAD-MS/MS, and their biological activities. Industrial Crops and Products 2020, 149, 112329 .
AMA StyleJorge M. Alves-Silva, Inês Guerra, Maria José Gonçalves, Carlos Cavaleiro, Maria Teresa Cruz, Artur Figueirinha, Lígia Salgueiro. Chemical composition of Crithmum maritimum L. essential oil and hydrodistillation residual water by GC-MS and HPLC-DAD-MS/MS, and their biological activities. Industrial Crops and Products. 2020; 149 ():112329.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJorge M. Alves-Silva; Inês Guerra; Maria José Gonçalves; Carlos Cavaleiro; Maria Teresa Cruz; Artur Figueirinha; Lígia Salgueiro. 2020. "Chemical composition of Crithmum maritimum L. essential oil and hydrodistillation residual water by GC-MS and HPLC-DAD-MS/MS, and their biological activities." Industrial Crops and Products 149, no. : 112329.
Fragaria vesca L. (F. vesca), popularly known as wild strawberry, is a plant from the Rosaceae family, found in temperate and subtropical areas of the northern hemisphere. F. vesca leaves have been shown to have antiseptic, emollient, and dermatological protection properties, due to the presence of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, ellagitannins, and proanthocyanidins. In this study, a F. vesca extract was obtained by an optimized extraction process, and was characterized by HPLC, ROS scavenging activity, cytotoxicity assays in HaCaT cells, and tyrosinase inhibitory activity determination. The most active extract was then incorporated in a hydrogel with hydroxyethylcellulose at 2% (w/w), which was characterized at the physicochemical, stability, cytotoxicity, and ROS scavenging activity levels to evaluate its quality, safety, and efficacy. In vivo studies, human repeat insult patch testing, and an assay to determine their antioxidant efficacy, were also performed. The results showed that the Fragaria vesca extracts had antioxidant activity and that the F. vesca extract-based hydrogel exhibited cutaneous compatibility, acceptability and antioxidant efficacy, being stable, and suitable for topical application.
Joana Couto; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Teresa Batista; António Paranhos; Carla Nunes; Lídia Maria Gonçalves; Joana Marto; Manuel Fitas; Pedro Pinto; Helena Margarida Ribeiro; Maria Eugénia Pina. Fragaria vesca L. Extract: A Promising Cosmetic Ingredient with Antioxidant Properties. Antioxidants 2020, 9, 154 .
AMA StyleJoana Couto, Artur Figueirinha, Maria Teresa Batista, António Paranhos, Carla Nunes, Lídia Maria Gonçalves, Joana Marto, Manuel Fitas, Pedro Pinto, Helena Margarida Ribeiro, Maria Eugénia Pina. Fragaria vesca L. Extract: A Promising Cosmetic Ingredient with Antioxidant Properties. Antioxidants. 2020; 9 (2):154.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJoana Couto; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Teresa Batista; António Paranhos; Carla Nunes; Lídia Maria Gonçalves; Joana Marto; Manuel Fitas; Pedro Pinto; Helena Margarida Ribeiro; Maria Eugénia Pina. 2020. "Fragaria vesca L. Extract: A Promising Cosmetic Ingredient with Antioxidant Properties." Antioxidants 9, no. 2: 154.
Algae (and their extracts) are increasingly important for pharmaceutical applications due to the diversity of useful compounds they contain. The genus Fucus contains one of the most studied species, Fucus vesiculosus. The species F. ceranoides differs from the others of the genus by presenting longitudinal air–vesicles and a capacity to survive at low salinities. It is an alga that inhabits the Mondego River estuary (Portugal), at the southern limit of its distribution, and can serve as a role model to understand the effect of a salt gradient on the production of bioactive compounds. We assessed the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of different F. ceranoides extracts (e.g. methanolic, aqueous and polysaccharide) prepared from samples harvested from two different zones to evaluate if the adaptation of F. ceranoides to different salinity levels influenced its chemical composition. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was determined using 1,2–diphenyl–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2.2–azino–bis (3–ethylbenzothiazoline–6–sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals. These assays demonstrated that the methanolic extract of lyophilized F. ceranoides that grew at low salinities was the most bioactive, i.e. DPPH (IC 50 =50.39 μg/mL) and ABTS (TEAC=2.42). The total phenolic content (Folin–Ciocalteu method) and the methanolic extract of the lyophilized F. ceranoides collected from a low salinity habitat exhibited the highest phenolic content (PGE=49.48 μg/mg of lyophilized extract) amongst those sampled. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used for the identification of compounds in the extracts. This characterization allowed confirmation that the various extracts contained almost the same compounds but with notable quantitative differences. Based on these results, we conclude that there were differences in the quantity of the compounds due to the effect of salinity. The drying methods used were also found to have influenced the quality of the extracted compounds.
João Cotas; Artur Figueirinha; Leonel Pereira; Teresa Batista. The effect of salinity on Fucus ceranoides (Ochrophyta, Phaeophyceae) in the Mondego River (Portugal). Journal of Oceanology and Limnology 2019, 37, 881 -891.
AMA StyleJoão Cotas, Artur Figueirinha, Leonel Pereira, Teresa Batista. The effect of salinity on Fucus ceranoides (Ochrophyta, Phaeophyceae) in the Mondego River (Portugal). Journal of Oceanology and Limnology. 2019; 37 (3):881-891.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJoão Cotas; Artur Figueirinha; Leonel Pereira; Teresa Batista. 2019. "The effect of salinity on Fucus ceranoides (Ochrophyta, Phaeophyceae) in the Mondego River (Portugal)." Journal of Oceanology and Limnology 37, no. 3: 881-891.
Acanthus mollis is a plant native to the Mediterranean region, traditionally used as diuretic, anti-inflammatory and soothing of the mucous membranes of the digestive and urinary tract and externally as healing of wounds and burns, also demonstrating analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. However, studies focused on its phytochemical composition as well as scientific proof of Acanthus mollis efficacy are scarce. The proposed work aims to perform a phytochemical characterization and evaluation of the therapeutic potential of Acanthus mollis, based on biological properties that support its traditional uses. In this study, an 96% ethanol extract from Acanthus mollis leaves was obtained and its phytochemical composition evaluated using High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Photodiode Array Detector coupled to Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-PDA-ESI/MSn). The chemical structure of the compound isolated was elucidated using 1H and 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), 1H-correlation spectroscopy (1H–COSY), heteronuclear single quantum correlation (HSQC) and heteronuclear multiple-bond correlation (HMBC). The quantification of the constituents was performed using two external standards (2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one and verbascoside). The antioxidant activity was determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-pycrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Anti-inflammatory activity was determined measuring the inhibition of nitric oxide production by RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with the TLR4 agonist lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and through lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibition assay. The cytotoxicity was screened on two lines (RAW 264.7 and HaCaT) using the resazurin assay. Compounds such as verbascoside and its derivatives, as well as benzoxazinoids were found as the main constituents. A percentage of 5.58% was verified for the 2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one (DIBOA) derivatives. DIBOA was the main compound of the extract. Significant concentrations were also found for phenylpropanoids, which constitute about 4.39% of the total compounds identified. This extract showed antioxidant capacity against DPPH (IC50 = 40.00 ± 1.59 μg/mL) and superoxide anion (IC50 = 29.42 ± 1.99 μg/mL). It also evidenced anti-inflammatory potential in RAW 264.7 macrophages, presenting capacity for nitric oxide reduction (IC50 = 28.01 μg/mL). Moreover, in vitro studies have shown that this extract was able to inhibit the lipoxygenase, with an IC50 of 104.39 ± 4.95 µg/mL. Importantly, all effective concentrations were devoid of cytotoxicity in keratinocytes, thus highlighting the safety of the extract for the treatment of skin inflammatory related diseases. Concerning macrophages it was also possible to disclose concentrations showing anti-inflammatory activity and without cytotoxicity (up to 30 µg/mL). The benzoxazinoid DIBOA demonstrated a considerable anti-inflammatory activity suggesting its important contribution to this activity. These results corroborate the anti-inflammatory properties traditionally attributed to this plant. Among the compounds identified in this study, benzoxazinoids exhibited a significant anti-inflammatory activity that was never previously described. Ethanol seems to be a good option for the extraction of these bioactive compounds, since relevant antioxidant/anti-radical and anti-inflammatory activities were found for this extract.
Patrícia Matos; A. Figueirinha; A. Paranhos; F. Nunes; P. Cruz; C.F.G.C. Geraldes; Maria Teresa Cruz; M.T. Batista. Bioactivity of Acanthus mollis – Contribution of benzoxazinoids and phenylpropanoids. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 2018, 227, 198 -205.
AMA StylePatrícia Matos, A. Figueirinha, A. Paranhos, F. Nunes, P. Cruz, C.F.G.C. Geraldes, Maria Teresa Cruz, M.T. Batista. Bioactivity of Acanthus mollis – Contribution of benzoxazinoids and phenylpropanoids. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2018; 227 ():198-205.
Chicago/Turabian StylePatrícia Matos; A. Figueirinha; A. Paranhos; F. Nunes; P. Cruz; C.F.G.C. Geraldes; Maria Teresa Cruz; M.T. Batista. 2018. "Bioactivity of Acanthus mollis – Contribution of benzoxazinoids and phenylpropanoids." Journal of Ethnopharmacology 227, no. : 198-205.
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) plays a causal role in chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer and gastric cancer. Antibiotic resistance and side effects of therapy have led to research for new candidates. Susceptibility and virulence factors were studied in H. pylori 12 clinical isolates. Agrimonia eupatoria L. (Ag), Fragaria vesca (Fv) extracts and a Fv ellagitannin-enriched fraction (Fve) activity were tested against these isolates. Ag, Fv extracts and Fve presented activity against H. pylori multi-resistant and virulent. Fve demonstrated the best activity (5 mg/mL inhibited 67% of isolates), follow by Fv (12.5 mg/mL inhibited 58%) and by Ag (25 mg/mL inhibited 40%). This is the first report of Fv extract and Fve fraction activity on H. pylori isolates. These activity and that of Ag were independently of the different patterns of virulence and susceptibility, suggesting potential of these plants as new natural drugs or as bioactive agents in association with antibiotic therapy.
Olga Cardoso; Maria Manuel Donato; Cristina Luxo; Nuno Almeida; Joana Liberal; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Teresa Batista. Anti- Helicobacter pylori potential of Agrimonia eupatoria L. and Fragaria vesca. Journal of Functional Foods 2018, 44, 299 -303.
AMA StyleOlga Cardoso, Maria Manuel Donato, Cristina Luxo, Nuno Almeida, Joana Liberal, Artur Figueirinha, Maria Teresa Batista. Anti- Helicobacter pylori potential of Agrimonia eupatoria L. and Fragaria vesca. Journal of Functional Foods. 2018; 44 ():299-303.
Chicago/Turabian StyleOlga Cardoso; Maria Manuel Donato; Cristina Luxo; Nuno Almeida; Joana Liberal; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Teresa Batista. 2018. "Anti- Helicobacter pylori potential of Agrimonia eupatoria L. and Fragaria vesca." Journal of Functional Foods 44, no. : 299-303.
This work expands the phytochemical composition knowledge of Acanthus mollis and evaluates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities which could be related with its traditional uses. Extracts from leaves, obtained by sequential extraction, were screened using TLC and HPLC-PDA. The ethanol extract was the most active on DPPH assay (IC50 = 20.50 μg/mL) and inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW 264.7 macrophages (IC50 = 48.31 μg/mL). Significant amounts of cyclic hydroxamic and phenolic acids derivatives were detected. A lower antioxidant effect was verified for a fraction enriched with DIBOA derivatives (IC50 = 163.02 μg/mL), suggesting a higher contribution of phenolic compounds for this activity in ethanol extract. However, this fraction exhibited a higher inhibition of NO production (IC50 = 32.32 μg/mL), with absence of cytotoxicity. These results support the ethnomedical uses of this plant for diseases based on inflammatory processes. To our knowledge, it is the first report to the anti-inflammatory activity for DIBOA derivatives.
Patrícia Matos; Artur Figueirinha; Isabel Ferreira; Maria Teresa Cruz; Maria Teresa Batista. Acanthus mollis L. leaves as source of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant phytoconstituents. Natural Product Research 2018, 33, 1824 -1827.
AMA StylePatrícia Matos, Artur Figueirinha, Isabel Ferreira, Maria Teresa Cruz, Maria Teresa Batista. Acanthus mollis L. leaves as source of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant phytoconstituents. Natural Product Research. 2018; 33 (12):1824-1827.
Chicago/Turabian StylePatrícia Matos; Artur Figueirinha; Isabel Ferreira; Maria Teresa Cruz; Maria Teresa Batista. 2018. "Acanthus mollis L. leaves as source of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant phytoconstituents." Natural Product Research 33, no. 12: 1824-1827.
Urtica dioica and other less studied Urtica species (Urticaceae) are often used as a food ingredient. Fifteen hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives and sixteen flavonoids, flavone and flavonol-type glycosides were identified in hydroalcoholic extracts from aerial parts of Urtica dioica L., Urtica urens L. and Urtica membranacea using HPLC-PDA-ESI/MS. Among them, the 4-caffeoyl-5-p-coumaroylquinic acid and three statin-like 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaroyl flavone derivatives were identified for the first time in Urtica urens and U. membranacea respectively. Urtica membranacea showed the higher content of flavonoids, mainly luteolin and apigenin C-glycosides, which are almost absent in the other species studied. In vitro, Urtica dioica exhibited greater antioxidant activity but Urtica urens exhibited stronger anti-inflammatory potential. Interestingly, statin-like compounds detected in Urtica membranacea have been associated with hypocholesterolemic activity making this plant interesting for future investigations. None of the extracts were cytotoxic to macrophages and hepatocytes in bioactive concentrations (200 and 350μg/mL), suggesting their safety use in food applications.
Ana Rita Carvalho; Gustavo Costa; Artur Figueirinha; Joana Liberal; João Prior; Maria Celeste Lopes; Maria Teresa Cruz; Maria Teresa Batista. Urtica spp.: Phenolic composition, safety, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Food Research International 2017, 99, 485 -494.
AMA StyleAna Rita Carvalho, Gustavo Costa, Artur Figueirinha, Joana Liberal, João Prior, Maria Celeste Lopes, Maria Teresa Cruz, Maria Teresa Batista. Urtica spp.: Phenolic composition, safety, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Food Research International. 2017; 99 ():485-494.
Chicago/Turabian StyleAna Rita Carvalho; Gustavo Costa; Artur Figueirinha; Joana Liberal; João Prior; Maria Celeste Lopes; Maria Teresa Cruz; Maria Teresa Batista. 2017. "Urtica spp.: Phenolic composition, safety, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities." Food Research International 99, no. : 485-494.
Heavy metals adsorption with lignocellulosic materials has been heavily researched in the last years. Since heat activation has been used with good results to increase the adsorption capacity of some materials, heat-treated wood might be a better adsorbent. This hypothesis is the basis of the present study. The adsorption tests were made with powdered pine wood, heat-treated at 190–210 °C. All the heat-treated samples showed a significantly higher adsorption compared to untreated wood. The maximum adsorption was obtained at pH 3 for heat-treated wood at 210 °C. The kinetics of the adsorption process fitted a pseudo-second-order reaction (R2 0.990–0.996). Adsorption fitted well both the Langmuir and the Freundlich model, but the Freundlich model presented higher R2 (0.988–0.998). The qmax values estimated by the Langmuir plotting were in the range 15.6–19.4 mg/g and the n values from Freundlich isotherms between 1.87 and 2.39. Heat-treated wood was a better adsorption material than untreated wood for chromium adsorption. This can be a good application for the sawdust produced by the processing of heat-treated wood at primary and secondary wood processing mills or for the recycling of heat-treated wood at the end of product life.
Bruno Esteves; Luísa Cruz-Lopes; Artur Figueirinha; Luís Lemos; José Ferreira; Helena Pereira; Idalina Domingos. Heat-treated wood as chromium adsorption material. European Journal of Wood and Wood Products 2017, 75, 903 -909.
AMA StyleBruno Esteves, Luísa Cruz-Lopes, Artur Figueirinha, Luís Lemos, José Ferreira, Helena Pereira, Idalina Domingos. Heat-treated wood as chromium adsorption material. European Journal of Wood and Wood Products. 2017; 75 (6):903-909.
Chicago/Turabian StyleBruno Esteves; Luísa Cruz-Lopes; Artur Figueirinha; Luís Lemos; José Ferreira; Helena Pereira; Idalina Domingos. 2017. "Heat-treated wood as chromium adsorption material." European Journal of Wood and Wood Products 75, no. 6: 903-909.
Luteolin is a dietary flavonoid with medicinal properties including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, antiallergic, and anti-inflammatory. However, the effect of luteolin on liver X receptors (LXRs), oxysterol sensors that regulate cholesterol homeostasis, lipogenesis, and inflammation, has yet to be studied. To unveil the potential of luteolin as an LXRα/β modulator, we investigated by real-time RT-PCR the expression of LXR-target genes, namely, sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c) in hepatocytes and ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABC)A1 in macrophages. The lipid content of hepatocytes was evaluated by Oil Red staining. The results demonstrated, for the first time, that luteolin abrogated the LXRα/β agonist-induced LXRα/β transcriptional activity and, consequently, inhibited SREBP-1c expression, lipid accumulation, and ABCA1 expression. Therefore, luteolin could abrogate hypertriglyceridemia associated with LXR activation, thus presenting putative therapeutic effects in diseases associated with deregulated lipid metabolism, such as hepatic steatosis, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.
Vera Lúcia Gomes Francisco; Artur Figueirinha; Gustavo Costa; Joana Liberal; Isabel Ferreira; Maria C. Lopes; Carmen García-Rodríguez; Maria Teresa Cruz; Maria Teresa Batista. The Flavone Luteolin Inhibits Liver X Receptor Activation. Journal of Natural Products 2016, 79, 1423 -1428.
AMA StyleVera Lúcia Gomes Francisco, Artur Figueirinha, Gustavo Costa, Joana Liberal, Isabel Ferreira, Maria C. Lopes, Carmen García-Rodríguez, Maria Teresa Cruz, Maria Teresa Batista. The Flavone Luteolin Inhibits Liver X Receptor Activation. Journal of Natural Products. 2016; 79 (5):1423-1428.
Chicago/Turabian StyleVera Lúcia Gomes Francisco; Artur Figueirinha; Gustavo Costa; Joana Liberal; Isabel Ferreira; Maria C. Lopes; Carmen García-Rodríguez; Maria Teresa Cruz; Maria Teresa Batista. 2016. "The Flavone Luteolin Inhibits Liver X Receptor Activation." Journal of Natural Products 79, no. 5: 1423-1428.
Gustavo Costa; Helena Grangeia; Artur Figueirinha; Isabel Vitória Figueiredo; Maria Teresa Batista. Influence of harvest date and material quality on polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity of Cymbopogon citratus infusion. Industrial Crops and Products 2016, 83, 738 -745.
AMA StyleGustavo Costa, Helena Grangeia, Artur Figueirinha, Isabel Vitória Figueiredo, Maria Teresa Batista. Influence of harvest date and material quality on polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity of Cymbopogon citratus infusion. Industrial Crops and Products. 2016; 83 ():738-745.
Chicago/Turabian StyleGustavo Costa; Helena Grangeia; Artur Figueirinha; Isabel Vitória Figueiredo; Maria Teresa Batista. 2016. "Influence of harvest date and material quality on polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity of Cymbopogon citratus infusion." Industrial Crops and Products 83, no. : 738-745.
The results of this assay confirm the gastroprotective activity of C. citratus extract on experimental gastric lesions induced by ethanol, contributing for the pharmacological validation of its traditional use.
Joana Sagradas; Gustavo Costa; Artur Figueirinha; Margarida Castel-Branco; António Manuel Silvério Cabrita; Isabel Vitória Figueiredo; Maria Teresa Batista. Gastroprotective effect of Cymbopogon citratus infusion on acute ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 2015, 173, 134 -138.
AMA StyleJoana Sagradas, Gustavo Costa, Artur Figueirinha, Margarida Castel-Branco, António Manuel Silvério Cabrita, Isabel Vitória Figueiredo, Maria Teresa Batista. Gastroprotective effect of Cymbopogon citratus infusion on acute ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2015; 173 ():134-138.
Chicago/Turabian StyleJoana Sagradas; Gustavo Costa; Artur Figueirinha; Margarida Castel-Branco; António Manuel Silvério Cabrita; Isabel Vitória Figueiredo; Maria Teresa Batista. 2015. "Gastroprotective effect of Cymbopogon citratus infusion on acute ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats." Journal of Ethnopharmacology 173, no. : 134-138.
Cymbopogon citratus (Cc), worldwide known as lemongrass, is a very important crop in the world, being bred in tropical countries. It is widely used for food and pharmaceutical industries, cosmetic and perfumery for its essential oil. Cc aqueous extracts are also commonly used in traditional medicine. They have high levels of polyphenols, which are known for their antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. From the essential oil hydrodistillation results an aqueous waste (CcHD), which is discarded. Therefore, a comparative study between CcHD and Cc infusion (CcI) was performed to characterize its phytochemical profile and to research its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory potential. HPLC‐PDA‐ESI/MSn analysis showed that CcI and CcHD have similar phenolic profiles, with CcHD presenting a higher amount of polyphenols. Additionally, both CcI and CcHD showed antioxidant activity against DPPH (EC50 of 41.72 ± 0.05 and 42.29 ± 0.05, respectively) and strong anti‐inflammatory properties, by reducing NO production and iNOS expression in macrophages, and through their NO scavenging activity, in a dose dependent manner. Furthermore, no cytotoxicity was observed. The data of this study encourages considering the aqueous solution from Cc leaves hydrodistillation as a source of bioactive compounds, which may add great industrial value to this crop.
Filipa Tavares; Gustavo Costa; Vera Lúcia Gomes Francisco; Joana Liberal; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Celeste Lopes; Maria Teresa Cruz; Maria Teresa Batista. Cymbopogon citratusindustrial waste as a potential source of bioactive compounds. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 2014, 95, 2652 -2659.
AMA StyleFilipa Tavares, Gustavo Costa, Vera Lúcia Gomes Francisco, Joana Liberal, Artur Figueirinha, Maria Celeste Lopes, Maria Teresa Cruz, Maria Teresa Batista. Cymbopogon citratusindustrial waste as a potential source of bioactive compounds. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. 2014; 95 (13):2652-2659.
Chicago/Turabian StyleFilipa Tavares; Gustavo Costa; Vera Lúcia Gomes Francisco; Joana Liberal; Artur Figueirinha; Maria Celeste Lopes; Maria Teresa Cruz; Maria Teresa Batista. 2014. "Cymbopogon citratusindustrial waste as a potential source of bioactive compounds." Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 95, no. 13: 2652-2659.