Ficus capensis (FC) and Parquetina nigrescens (PN) are traditional African medicinal plants with reported neuropharmacological properties, yet their active compounds and mechanisms remain poorly characterized. This study employed an integrative experimental and computational strategy to compare their phytochemical profiles and neuroprotective mechanisms, aiming to identify multi-target therapeutic candidates. Phytochemical constituents were profiled using HPLC and GC, while in vitro neuroprotective effects were evaluated through cholinesterase inhibition and lipid peroxidation (LPO) assays. Network pharmacology, Gene Ontology, KEGG enrichment, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted to uncover mechanistic pathways and prioritize key compounds. The top-performing FC ethanolic extract (FCET) and its major bioactive, luteolin, were further tested for HDAC1 inhibition and thermal target engagement. FC showed a richer neuroactive phytochemical profile than PN, and exhibited stronger inhibitory effects on acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and LPO. Network pharmacology identified 304 neurodegeneration-related protein targets, highlighting AKT1, HDAC1, EP300, STAT3, and EGFR as core nodes, enriched in MAPK, PI3K-AKT, and Ras pathways. Luteolin ranked highest across these targets, outperforming native ligands in docking scores. MD simulations confirmed the stability of luteolin-target interactions, with RMSD values < 0.3 nm and minimal structural fluctuations. Luteolin and FCET also showed potent HDAC1 inhibition, confirmed by IC50 values and significant thermal stabilization (ΔTm). These findings position Ficus capensis as a promising neuroprotective agent and luteolin as a viable multi-target lead compound. The study offers mechanistic insight into their therapeutic potential and supports further development of FC-derived agents for neurodegenerative disease intervention.

Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit is known for its insecticidal properties. However, the mechanism of action in bait formulations remains poorly understood. This study evaluated the insecticidal activity of H. suaveolens leaf-based bait (HSLB) against Periplaneta americana using integrated in vivo and in silico approaches. Forty-five cockroaches were randomly assigned into five groups (n = 9): Group A received control (untreated feed), Group B received standard bait (0.05

Thaumatococcus daniellii is used in the treatment of several ailments in traditional settings. This study investigated the protective effects of T. daniellii leaf-fortified feed against potassium bromate (KBrO₃)-induced oxidative damage in Wistar rats. Thirty male Wistar rats were distributed to 5 groups (n = 6): positive control (Group A), negative control (Group B), and treatment groups fed diets fortified with 10%, 20%, and 30% T. daniellii leaf powder (Groups C–E). Potassium bromate (10 mg/kg bw) was orally administered to Groups A and C–E to induce oxidative stress. While the control groups received standard commercial feed, the treatment groups were fed diets compounded with T. daniellii leaves at the specified inclusion levels. Following a 14-day experimental period, the animals were euthanized 24 hours after the final treatment, and serum and tissue homogenates were collected for biochemical analyses. Biochemical assessments revealed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in hepatic total protein concentration in the positive control group compared to both the negative control and the T. daniellii-treated groups. Additionally, the treatment groups exhibited a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in MDA levels relative to both control groups, indicating attenuated lipid peroxidation. The activities of ALT, AST, SOD, and bilirubin concentrations were also significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the positive control group compared to the negative control and fortified feed groups. Conversely, urea levels were significantly elevated (p < 0.05) in the positive control group relative to all other groups. The observed ameliorative effects are attributed to the antioxidant potential of phytochemicals present in T. daniellii leaves, which may confer protection against oxidative damage induced by KBrO₃.

Resistance to malaria parasites has overwhelming impacts on the host’s antioxidant microenvironment, stimulating oxidative stress during nutrient hunt. Hence, settlers in malaria-ravaged communities have resorted to plant use for fever and malaria due to its availability and affordability. This work assessed the oxidative stress status through antioxidant parameters of sub-fractions of Capsicum frutescens L. fruit (CFL) aqueous extract in Plasmodium berghei (NK65)-parasitized mice. Two hundred and four (204) mice (combined sexes) weighing 24.0 ± 3.0 g were randomized into seven Groups (n = 4) and intraperitoneally inoculated with parasitized erythrocytes (0.2 mL). Group A = 10 mL/kg normal saline (control), Group B = 10 mg/kg body weight chloroquine, and Groups C-G respectively received 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, and 8.0 mg/kg body weight of each sub-fraction. On Days 4 and 8 post-inoculation, mice from each group were euthanized. Blood and liver were taken and prepared using standard procedures to develop homogenates of erythrocytes and liver. Assessment of lipid peroxidation using malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidants using superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione S-transferase concentrations were done in the homogenates. Treatment with CLF sub-fractions in erythrocytes and liver homogenates significantly reduced (p < 0.05) MDA levels with a concomitant increase in the untreated. Conversely, the treated groups revealed a significant increase in the antioxidant enzymes in a dose-dependent fashion compared with the untreated on Days 4 and 8 post-inoculation. However, sub-fraction B was more pronounced than sub-fractions A and C. This study suggests that CFL sub-fractions, especially sub-fraction B, possess in vivo antiplasmodial and antioxidant potency against fever and malaria by elevating antioxidant capacity.

In this study, we investigated the development of gum Arabic (GA)-based composite coatings functionalized with keratin (K) and cinnamon oil (CO) to enhance the physicochemical, nutritional, and microbial stability of tomatoes. Coating formulations containing GA-K-CO0.1 (27:3:0.1, v/v/v) and GA-K-CO0.5 (27:3:0.5, v/v/v) were developed and applied as coatings. Mature green tomatoes were treated with GA-K-CO0.1 and GA-K-CO0.5 and stored at 27.5 °C and 80.7

Botanical or plant-derived insecticides are compounds of plant origin with insecticidal properties. Several insecticidal compounds from plants, such as pyrethrins, nicotine, azadirachtin, rotenone, and many others, have been found in different species of plants. Each of the compounds has specific physiological targets, mechanisms of action, and efficacy. The rise in demand for plant-derived insecticidal compounds is due to their non-toxic activity on non-target organisms. Some of the plant-derived insecticides used in commercially produced insecticides are azadirachtin present in neem tree Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae) and pyrethrins present in Chrysanthemum tanacetum cinerariifolium (Asteraceae). Limonene, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, spinosads, and rotenone which are plant sources have also been used for insecticidal purposes. Most of these insecticidal compounds have been reported to mediate neurotoxic effects by acting on ion channels, receptors, or enzymes found in the insect nervous system. Pyrethroids act on voltage-gated sodium channels. This study reviewed the insecticidal effects of some plant-derived insecticides and their mechanisms of action.

Malaria is a serious illness caused by parasites belonging to the genus Plasmodium, transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. Malaria remains a primary cause of death globally, and timely diagnosis coupled with prompt treatment is essential to prevent severe outcomes. The disease is most prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa and certain parts of Asia, whereas in developed countries, malaria is typically seen as imported from regions where it is endemic. The major challenge faced by current antimalarial therapies is the emergence of drug resistance in the parasite species. This challenge diminished the effectiveness of various first-line treatments used to treat malaria, which hampers the efforts of these medications in reducing parasitemia levels and relieving symptoms. Hence there is need for continuous research to better understand the parasite lifecycle and pathophysiology of the disease. This study sought to address the limitations of existing antimalarial therapies by exploring novel therapeutic targets with improved mechanisms of action and reduced rates of resistance emergence. These findings are crucial for the development of more effective antimalarial therapies and highlight the potential of underexplored targets in the battle against malaria.

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a complex medical condition characterized by the early depletion of ovarian follicles, leading to diminished ovarian function before the age of 40. This condition can manifest in various ways, including early menopause, which is defined as the cessation of menstrual periods for a full year, and a significant reduction in fertility potential. The consequences of POI can be profound and deeply affect a woman's physical and emotional health, as it often leads to symptoms commonly associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes. Additionally, women with POI may face challenges related to infertility, which can have a significant psychological impact. Recent research has begun to shed light on the multifaceted nature of POI, revealing that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in its development and progression. Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage, and antioxidants, which help neutralize these harmful substances. Excessive oxidative stress can lead to the premature aging of ovaries and a reduction in the quality and quantity of ovarian follicles. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that lifestyle factors, particularly dietary habits, can significantly influence the risk of developing POI. A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals may help mitigate oxidative stress, potentially protecting ovarian function. For instance, foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, as well as fruits and vegetables packed with antioxidants, can contribute to overall reproductive health. Integrating a balanced diet that prioritizes these nutrient-rich foods may not only support ovarian health but also delay the onset of menopause. In addition to dietary considerations, other lifestyle interventions, including regular physical activity and stress management techniques, can also play a role in reducing the risk of POI. Regular exercise has been shown to improve overall health and may help regulate hormonal balances that are vital for reproductive function. Stress management through mindfulness, yoga, or other relaxation techniques can further support hormonal health and enhance overall well-being. This review underscores the critical interplay between oxidative stress and lifestyle factors in the context of premature ovarian insufficiency. By recognizing the impact of diet and lifestyle choices, targeted interventions can be developed to help reduce or even delay the onset of POI. This proactive approach could empower women to take charge of their reproductive health, promoting better outcomes and enhancing their quality of life as they navigate the challenges associated with early ovarian insufficiency. Ultimately, a deeper understanding of these factors provides a pathway for more effective prevention and management strategies for those at risk.

Male infertility affects a sizable portion of trying-to-conceive couples, and it is a rising global concern. Oxidative stress has been identified as a fundamental mechanism that disrupts sperm function and overall reproductive health, even though different factors contribute to reduced fertility in males. With an emphasis on their mechanistic function in preventing oxidative stress, this report explores the therapeutic potential of dietary polyphenols in reducing male infertility. It has long been established that diet plays a complex role in reproductive health, and new research indicated that diets high in polyphenols may have therapeutic value in adjusting the hormonal balance in the reproductive system. Dietary polyphenols are a group of bioactive substances present in a variety of plant-based diets. Because of their strong antioxidant qualities and capacity to alter cellular pathways implicated in oxidative stress, polyphenols have attracted attention. Dietary polyphenols scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), boost endogenous antioxidant defences, and alter signalling pathways linked to inflammation and apoptosis to combat oxidative stress in the male reproductive system. A comprehensive grasp of polyphenols’ therapeutic potential is provided by insights into how they affect sperm quality, motility, and DNA integrity. With a focus on oxidative stress as the primary mechanism, this report showed the potentially useful role of dietary polyphenols as a cutting-edge and approachable therapeutic approach for treating male infertility.

This study aimed to assess the free radical scavenging activity antibacterial and bacterial growth inhibitory potential of the Azadirachta indica (neem) seed methanolic extract (NSME). NSME was subjected to phytochemical screening and the antioxidant activity was assayed by determining the 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities (RSA) as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus were the target microbes with gentamicin (CN) and 5% DMSO as positive and negative controls, respectively. Phytochemical screening revealed that the extract contains alkaloids, anthraquinones, flavonoids, phenols, steroids, tannins and terpenoids. The flavonoids and phenolic content were 65.25 ± 3.189 mg QE/g and 442.333 ± 3.055 mg GAE/g respectively. NSME showed high RSA equivalent to 85.83% ± 0.16% DPPH RSA and 87.09% ± 0.380 hydroxyl RSA at 1000 μg/mL. The TAC of the extract (32.51 ± 1.39 mg/100 mg ascorbic acid) was significantly higher (p<0.05) than that of butylated hydroxytoluene (22.87 ± 0.69 mg/100 mg ascorbic acid). The extract showed preliminary inhibitory activity against P. aeruginosa with the greatest inhibition at 1000 mg/mL with no noticeable inhibitory activity against S. aureus. Molecular docking revealed the interactions of phytol to penicillin-binding protein 1A and quercetin to DNA gyrase subunit B which obeyed the druggability and pharmacokinetic results that support NSME as one of the promising indigenous medicinal plants with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Alloxan has been well-documented as a trigger for experimental diabetes, which may be associated with impaired liver function, organ toxicity, and damage, among other effects. In this study, how a diet containing turmeric and its extract affected the liver, kidney, heart, and serum of rats treated with alloxan was examined. The impacts were evaluated by measuring the levels of alkaline phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase in those organs mentioned earlier. Forty female albino rats were divided randomly into five groups (A, B, C, D, and E) each containing five rats. Groups A, C, and E received a diet containing 5% turmeric formulation. Group B was fed a basal diet, while groups D and E received daily oral administration of 10% turmeric crude extract. The dietary study continued for 21 days, following which all groups aside from group A received an induction of 150 mg/kg body weight of alloxan and were then monitored for 48 hours. The Blood glucose levels of each rat were determined using a glucometer. Administration of alloxan led to detrimental effects on the functions of certain organs, including the liver, heart, and plasma. This is supported by a notable elevation (P ≤ 0.05) in the levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzymes in the group of rats induced with alloxan, in comparison to the normal control group. Pre-administration of a turmeric-formulated diet and extract to rats treated with alloxan mitigated the impact of alloxan on the activities of ALP and AST enzymes in the liver compared to rats treated with alloxan alone. This was demonstrated by the significant reduction in the activities of liver ALP and AST of rats in group B when compared with the control group (A). Also, there was a remarkable significant difference (p ≤ 0.05) in the activities of ALP and AST enzymes in group (E) compared with the negative control. Therefore, it can be concluded that a turmeric-formulated diet and extract might mitigate alloxan-induced toxicity in the experimental organs.

An environmentally, sustainable and feasible bottom-up approach was utilized for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using exopolysaccharide (EPS) secreted by Pleurotus tuber-regium (Fr.) Singer which is a tropical perennial edible and medicinal mushroom. Mycochemical assay showed positive presence of saponin and steroid. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were biosynthesized using EPS as reducing capping and stabilizing agent. Imperative operational parameters vis-à-vis concentration, contact time, reaction temperature and volume ratio were investigated. 10 mM silver nitrate, 180 hours, 100°C and 50:50 were found to be the optimal parameters for silver nanoparticle production. The biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized using Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). The Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) band was observed at 420 nm characteristic region of AgNPs. Mycochemical screening and FTIR spectroscopy revealed the presence of phytomolecules and prominent peaks of polyols responsible for the reduction of Ag + and Ag 0 . The AgNPs as well as the exopolysaccharide produced were tested against important fruit spoilage microorganisms (Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Rhizopus stolonife, Fusarium sp.). The nanoparticles at 200 μL/mL and 100 μL/mL were found to inhibit all the target fungi. Rhizopus stolonifer and Fusarium sp. were more sensitive at 50 μL/mL and 25 μL/mL concentrations of both the silver nanoparticles and EPS. Based on the study, it can be inferred that silver nanoparticles capped with EPS and EPS have antifungal property.

Introduction: The association between drug resistance and genomic mutations underscores their clinical importance in cancer treatment strategies. One such mutation is the E571K alteration in the exportin-1 gene (XPO1), which affects nuclear export signals. Exportin-1 deregulation contributes to oncogenic conditions, including KRAS-mutant lung adenocarcinoma, while this mutation is more common in haematological malignancies, it also occurs in solid tumors like lung adenocarcinoma. Developing selective inhibitors of nuclear export signals (SINEs), such as Selinexor, could improve the prognosis for this challenging condition. However, current SINEs have limitations in potency and safety when used alone or in combination therapy.Aim: To establish, through molecular modeling, safe and clinically acceptable putative antagonists of E571K-mutated exportin-1 among the bioactive compounds in various parts of Juglans mandshurica.Methods: The bioactive compounds were subjected to the compendium of drug-likeness and lead-likeness filter workflows before docking of the resultant compounds into E571K exportin-1 active site using PyRx AutoDock vina to establish their binding affinity and interaction profile. The evolutionary algorithm of Osiris DataWarrior software, as well as lead-likeness filter were employed for the generation of novel non-promiscuous analogs of the lead compound with better putative selectivity and clinical acceptability as E571K Exportin-1 antagonists.Results: The findings of this study present taxifolin as the putatively effective and lead-like E571K Exportin-1 inhibitor with high potential of qualifying for clinical evaluation but is associated with high promiscuity tendency in high throughput screening. The evolutionary derivation of novel analogs of the compound, however, results in the generation of putatively non-promiscuous, non-toxic, and lead-like E571K Exportin-1 antagonists with high synthetic accessibility and clinical developability for evaluation in the strategy for the treatment of drug-resistant KRAS-mutant lung adenocarcinoma condition.)

Cannabinoids are phytochemicals with important pharmacological benefits. However, cannabinoid-based therapies suffer from poor bioavailability due to their high lipophilicity. Transport proteins such as Human Serum Albumin and β-lactoglobulin deliver drugs to target receptor sites where they elicit biological effects. This study probed the interaction between β-lactoglobulin and phytocannabinoids using molecular docking and dynamics simulation. The results from docking revealed that cannabielson (-7.46 kcal/mol), cannabinol (-6.13 kcal/mol), and tetrahydrocannabinol (-6.03 kcal/mol) had the highest binding affinity to β-lactoglobulin. Hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions stabilized the β- lactoglobulin-Cannabinoid complexes. Molecular dynamics simulation of β-lactoglobulin-cannabielson complex was performed for 30, 000 ps (30 ns) to determine its root mean square deviation (RMSD), root mean square fluctuation (RMSF), and radius of gyration (Rg) of the protein in bound and unbound states. β-lactoglobulin was shown by this study to be a valuable protein that transports cannabinoids to biological sites. Hence, β-lactoglobulin may be used as an additive in drug formulation for efficient delivery of cannabinoids to target receptors.

Human infertility can arise from various factors including oxidative stress and endocrine disruptors. This study evaluated the protective effects of Allium cepa-fortified feed on testicular function alterations caused by oxidative damage by KBrO3. HPLC-characterized compounds of Allium cepa were docked against androgen receptor protein (2PIP). Thirty male Wistar rats with an average weight of 200 ± 0.5 g were randomly grouped into six: positive control which received KBrO3 and regular rat chow, negative control was fed only regular chow, and experimental groups received KBrO3 along with 10

Beta vulgaris L. is a root vegetable that is consumed mainly as a food additive. This study aimed to describe the protective effect of B. vulgaris on Fe2+-mediated oxidative liver damage through in vitro, ex vivo, and in silico studies to establish a strong rationale for its protective effect. To induce oxidative damage, we incubated the livers of healthy male rats with 0.1 mM FeSO(4 )to induce oxidative injury and coincubated them with an aqueous extract of B. vulgaris root (BVFE) (15-240 mu g/mL). Induction of liver damage significantly (p < .05) decreased the levels of GSH, SOD, CAT, and ENTPDase activities, with a corresponding increase in MDA and NO levels and Na+/K+ ATPase, G6 Pase, and F-1,6-BPase enzyme activities. BVFE treatment (p < .05) reduced these levels and activities to almost normal levels, with the most prominent effects observed at 240 mu g/mL BVFE. An HPLC investigation revealed sixteen compounds in BVFE, with quercetin being the most abundant. Chlorogenic acid and iso-orientation showed the highest binding affinities for G6 Pase and Na+/K (+) ATPase, respectively. These findings suggest that B. vulgaris can protect against Fe2+-mediated liver damage by suppressing oxidative stress and cholinergic and purinergic activities while regulating gluconeogenesis. Overall, the hepatoprotective activity of this extract might be driven by the synergistic effect of the identified compounds and their probable interactions with target proteins.

Seasonings like garlic, ginger, and scallion provide spicy and masking flavor or aroma in vegetables. However, the method or technique used for drying these spices can affect the flavor profile. Therefore, this review focuses on vegetable seasonings like ginger, garlic, and scallion, the characteristic flavor of fresh and dehydrated vegetable seasoning, and how drying methods (freeze-drying [FD], convective hot air drying [HAD], infrared drying, microwave drying [MW]), and other recent dryers (swirling fluidized bed [SFB], pulsed-vacuum dryer, relative humidity-convective dryer, etc.) affect the flavor profile of the common vegetable seasonings. HAD increases α-zingiberene, reduces gingerol, and forms β-citral and citral in fresh ginger. FD increased sesquiterpenes, retained terpenoids, sulfides, and other volatiles in fresh ginger, and did not produce new volatile compounds (VOCs) in garlic. SFB drying better preserves 6-gingerol than FD and HAD. MW increases trisulfides and cyclic sulfur compounds in garlic. In general, drying, especially thermal drying reduces the VOCs in fresh garlic, ginger, and scallion and causes the formation of new VOCs.

Human infertility is strongly linked to fibroids, a medical disorder that is linked to the growth of uterine tumors. About 20-40% of women in their fertile years are reported to have this condition. When fibroids are present clinically, they can cause symptoms including heavy menstruation and organ pressure. Numerous epidemiologic studies have consistently established a link between parity and a diminished susceptibility to fibroids. Additionally, these studies have consistently revealed that women who have had pregnancies more recently are at a lower risk of developing fibroids compared to those who have had pregnancies in the distant past. Leiomyomas arise as a result of excessive proliferation of smooth muscle and connective tissue within the uterus. The expansion of these growths is perpetuated by the impact of ovarian steroids, namely estrogen and progesterone. A changed molecular environment in leiomyoma as opposed to the normal myometrium has also been demonstrated by several genomic and proteomic investigations. Analysis of global gene expression in uterine leiomyomas (ULMs) has shown that a significant number of genes are dysregulated, with many of them being implicated in essential cellular functions such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and extracellular matrix synthesis. While dysregulated genes can potentially function as effectors or promoters of ULMs growth, their primary role is likely to be secondary induction, indirectly contributing to the development of morbid and symptomatic ULMs. Additionally, when ROS levels are out of harmony with antioxidant levels, they have been linked to the development of serious and incapacitating reproductive issues like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and infertility. Tranexamic acid and NSAIDs are the two most commonly used non-hormonal medications for bleeding and pain associated with uterine fibroids. This review shows that there is no correlation between the risk of developing uterine fibroids in female individuals and external factors like nutrition or environment, the major treatments for UFs continue to be surgical management by hysterectomy, myomectomy, uterine artery embolization (UAE).