The genus Anthemis (Asteraceae) is well known for its richness in bioactive secondary metabolites, particularly phenolic compounds, which are associated with notable antioxidant properties. Despite this interest, comparative data on the antioxidant activity of extracts from different Anthemis species remain limited, especially regarding the influence of solvent polarity. This study focuses on evaluating and comparing the antioxidant potential of dichloromethane and hexane extracts from the aerial parts of Anthemis punctata and Anthemis maritima.

In this study, we investigated the antioxidant potential of four extracts obtained from the aerial parts of two Anthemis species: A. punctata and A. maritima. The plant materials were successively extracted using hexane and dichloromethane, yielding ARP1H and ARP1D (A. punctata), and ARP2H and ARP2D (A. maritima). The antioxidant activity was evaluated by the DPPH radical scavenging assay, and IC₅₀ values were determined.

The results revealed notable differences according to both species and solvent polarity. The dichloromethane extract of A. punctata (ARP1D) showed the strongest antioxidant effect (IC₅₀ ≈ 80 μg/mL), followed by the dichloromethane extract of A. maritima (ARP2D, IC₅₀ ≈ 110 μg/mL). In contrast, hexane extracts (ARP1H and ARP2H) exhibited weaker antioxidant activity, as indicated by their higher IC₅₀ values.

Overall, this comparative study demonstrates that solvent polarity and plant species significantly influence antioxidant capacity, highlighting A. punctata dichloromethane extract as a promising natural source of antioxidant compounds.

Background and aims: Cellular senescence and inflammation-mediated phenotypic switch in smooth muscle cell (SMC) are pivotal factors in the aortic degenerative remodeling and the development of aortic dissection. Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a natural polyphenolic compound of plant origin, exhibits remarkable anti-aging and anti-inflammation properties. However, the role of CGA in the aortic degenerative remodeling and aortic dissection remains elusive.

Methods: In this study, a BAPN (beta-aminopropionitrile)-induced aortic dissection model in vivo and DOX (doxorubicin)-induced cell senescence model in vitro were employed, in combination with activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) technology, to explore the mechanism by which CGA inhibits aortic dissection.

Results: The results revealed that CGA could prophylactically and therapeutically prevent BAPN-induced aortic dissection in mice, with reduced mice death and aortic diameter, inhibited aortic SMC senescence, inflammatory responses and phenotypic switch. Transcriptome sequencing of aortic tissues demonstrated that CGA treatment downregulated the expression of genes related to senescence and SMC synthesis, while upregulating the expression of contractile genes in aortic SMCs. These findings were further validated in DOX-induced senescent SMCs. Based on ABPP technology, a CGA chemical probe was utilized to exploring its protein targets, and Mettl3 was identified and verified as a potential target of CGA in senescent SMCs. Inhibition of Mettl3 using a specific inhibitor reduces the senescence and phenotypic transformation of SMCs in vitro. Concomitantly, Mettl3 specific inhibitor could also prophylactically and therapeutically prevent BAPN-induced aortic dissection in mice.

Conclusions: In summary, this study offers novel insights into halting the progression of aortic dissection and may facilitate the application of CGA in the prevention of aortic dissection.

Ovarian cancer is lethal and 7^th leading cause of deaths in females. Aberrant ß -catenin in Wnt signaling works as a key player in cancer. Major functional components of soybean seeds possess multiple therapeutic activities. Results of UV-Vis. Spectroscopy and GC-MS analysis showed that ethanolic extract of Glycine max had highest concentration of 4',7-Dihydroxyisoflavone daidzein along with 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid(Z,Z)-, methyl ester, 12-Octadecenoic acid, methyl ester, 11-Octadecenoic acid, methyl ester, Linoleic acid ethyl ester, (E)-9-Octadecenoic acid ethyl ester and 4',7-Dihydroxyisoflavone Daidzein (retention time is 13. 797 min- 9.097 min). In-silico study showed that daidzein has maximum binding affinity with beta catenin, which may be inhibited. Results of in vivo study on normal cell lines showed that all extracts had varying effects on cell viability but n-hexane (20 µg/mL) extract showed highest variation. DMBA induced adult healthy female Sprague Dawley rats (150-200 g) have been treated with peclitaxel, diadzin and polarity based extracts of G.max seeds (10 mg/Kg b.w) and results on CA 125 showed a steady increase but at a lower rate than the negative control group. Some extracts significantly reduced CA 125 levels, while a combination of Daidzein+Paclitaxel showed least CA 125 levels. Biochemical profile showed that the group treated with combination therapy showed protective effects with improved protein metabolism and lower urea, creatinine and bilirubin content while n-Hexane and ethanolic extracts exhibited moderate organ stress. Hematological parameters remained stable, with some groups showing improvements in RBC and hemoglobin levels. Daidzein and ethanolic extracts showed protective effects on ovary and liver while combination therapy reduced tumor growth and severe organ damage. Histological analysis showed that paclitaxel provided partial protection from tumor progression/ organ damage. Daidzein and ethanolic extracts showed protective effects. n-Hexane extract had variable effects, while other extracts showed moderate protective properties.

Introduction: Astaxanthin is a widely studied carotenoid due to its health-promoting properties. It has been reported to possess antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable compound in the development of cosmetics, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. In recent years, marine waste, such as shrimp shells, has been investigatedhas a source of astaxanthin. This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant capacity of astaxanthin extracts obtained from shrimp shells. Methods: Shrimp shells were collected, cleaned, dried, and subjected to ultrasound-assisted extraction to obtain astaxanthin-rich extracts. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts was evaluated using widely established radical scavenging assays, including DPPH and ABTS. The results were expressed as EC50 values and compared with ascorbic acid as a standard antioxidant.

Results: The shrimp shell extract showed potent antioxidant activity at low concentrations. In the DPPH assay, it achieved over 90% radical scavenging at 1.0 µg/mL, with an EC50 of 0.37 µg/mL. By comparison, ascorbic acid was far less potent (EC50 = 6.89 µg/mL) and reached only 60% scavenging at its highest tested concentration (7.5 µg/mL). Similar results were observed in the ABTS assay, where the shrimp shell extract achieved nearly complete inhibition at concentrations below 1 µg/mL (EC50 = 0.13 µg/mL), outperforming the positive control (EC50 = 1.74 µg/mL).
Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that astaxanthin extracts from shrimp shells exhibits strong antioxidant activity, making it highly suitable as a natural bioactive ingredient. Such extracts have clear potential for incorporation into nutraceuticals, functional foods, and cosmetic formulations, providing a sustainable route to natural antioxidant enrichment in commercial products.

Indicators used in titration are generally chemical dyes of synthetic origin that provide distinct color transitions of pH. Nature has abundant source of plants that need to be identified for their indicator property there by promoting SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) goal. The present study focuses on the applicability of vegetables’ and fruits’ extracts as natural indicators. A comparative study of red cabbage (Brassica oleracea), dragon fruit (Selenicereus undatus), pomegranate (Punica granatum), beetroot (Beta vulgaris) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) extracts with synthetic indicator viz. phenolphthalein was carried out to evaluate their potential as acid-base indicator. The findings revealed that all plant extracts tested were effective as acid–base indicators in strong acid–strong base titrations. Additionally, red cabbage (Brassica oleracea) and dragon fruit (Selenicereus undatus) demonstrated indicator activity even in strong acid–weak base titrations. The study detected the presence of anthocyanins in all plant extracts which were analysed by determining their λ_max by UV spectrophotometry and Rf by Thin Layer Chromatography. The choice of such natural indicators can be explained by their wide occurrence, non-toxicity, simple methods of extraction, and low cost, which makes these indicators a sustainable alternative to synthetic ones in the context of pharmaceutical use.

In recent years, herbal medicines have garnered worldwide attention from both people and researchers due to their aesthetic value, improved patient compliance, and significant therapeutic effects. Herbal drugs can be more effectively utilized by incorporating them into modern dosage forms. This can be achieved through the design of novel herbal ingredient drug delivery systems, which represent innovative approaches addressing the limitations of traditional drug delivery systems. Implementing novel drug delivery technologies in herbal medicine has the potential to enhance efficacy and reduce the side effects associated with various herbal compounds and herbs.These formulations offer several advantages over traditional methods, including improved solubility and bioavailability, reduced toxicity, controlled drug delivery, and protection of plant actives from degradation. Moreover, they exhibit drug-targeting properties that enhance selectivity, delivery precision, and overall effectiveness, often allowing for dose reduction. These advancements not only increase safety but also promote patient compliance.Various novel herbal drug delivery systems include liposomes, phytosomes, nanoemulsions, nanoparticles, ethosomes, and transferosomes, each offering unique benefits. For instance, liposomes and nanoparticles can encapsulate poorly water-soluble herbal extracts, enhancing their absorption and stability. Phytosomes improve the bioavailability of polyphenolic compounds, while nanoemulsions enhance skin penetration in topical applications. These systems not only protect active constituents from environmental degradation but also improve therapeutic indices by ensuring site-specific delivery.Furthermore, these technologies can be applied to both traditional herbal formulations and modern herbal products, bridging the gap between conventional herbal therapy and advanced pharmaceutical science. With continued research and development, novel herbal drug delivery systems are poised to revolutionize the way herbal medicines are administered, making them safer, more effective, and more acceptable to modern consumers.

Morocco's botanical wealth includes numerous endemic species with underexplored pharmacological potential. Abies marocana Trab. , a conifer native to the Rif Mountains, remains insufficiently studied despite its traditional significance. This study aims to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and acute oral toxicity of the woody biomass (twigs and cones) of Abies marocana Trab. , providing insights into its pharmacognostic value.

Proximate composition (moisture, ash, fiber, protein, carbohydrates, and lipids) was determined using AOAC protocols. Mineral elements were quantified via Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Methanolic extracts were analyzed for total phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, and phytosterols, and their antioxidant potential assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Volatile compounds were identified by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Acute oral toxicity was evaluated in Wistar rats according to OECD guideline 423.

The results revealed that both cones and twigs contain appreciable levels of nutrients and essential minerals. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of bioactive secondary metabolites. GC-MS analysis identified linoleic acid as the major compound in twig extracts and 2-Bornanone in cone extracts. The extracts exhibited significant antioxidant capacity, supporting their potential use in oxidative stress-related disorders. Toxicological evaluation showed no signs of toxicity or mortality up to 1000 mg·kg⁻¹, suggesting a favorable safety profile.

These findings highlight the potential of Abies marocana Trab. woody biomass as a valuable source of natural antioxidants with prospective applications in phytotherapy, nutraceuticals, and cosmeceuticals. Further pharmacological and mechanistic studies are warranted to support its integration into evidence-based medicinal use.

Introduction: Cadmium (Cd) is one of the major occupational and environmental toxicants, that poses serious risks to metabolic health and liver functions. This study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of aqueous extract of Curcuma longa against cadmium-induced liver damage, blood glucose imbalance and lipid profile disruptions in male Wistar albino rats.

Method: Fresh rhizomes of Curcuma longa were bought in the market and identified by a Botanist with voucher number (UNH/05/0223). They were washed, peeled and crushed and soaked with water. This was allowed to stand for a while and the sieved out to obtain the aqueous extract. A total of 42 rats were divided into 6 groups comprising of 7 each, which are: normal control, untreated cadmium group (4 mg/kg), treatment control (400 mg/kg turmeric), and three treatment groups given: low (100 mg/kg), mid (200mg/kg) and high (400 mg/kg) doses of turmeric extract. After 21 days of simultaneous cadmium induction and treatment, the rats were fasted overnight before blood was collected through the retro-orbital sinus for biochemical analyses.

Results: Phytochemical results showed the presence of these compounds in mg/100 g- alkaloids: 97.23 ± 0.68, flavonoids: 34.00 ± 2.00, terpenoids: 37.00 ± 3.60, steroids: 3.38 ± 0.18, reducing sugar: 26.66 ± 1.45, phenolics: 870.00 ± 25.19. Treatment with Curcuma longa extract showed a significant (p < 0.05) improvement in the Cd-induced disruptions in biochemical parameters most especially at mid and high doses by lowering liver enzyme markers; aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) as well as direct bilirubin. There was also a marked decrease in blood glucose and TAG levels with slight improvement in total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL) when compared with the untreated group.

Conclusion: Therefore, it is concluded that aqueous extract of Curcuma longa possesses strong hepatoprotective and metabolic benefit, offering potential as a natural therapeutic agent against Cd-induced toxicity.

Polypharmacology has emerged as a promising approach in modern drug discovery, allowing researchers to address the complex interplay of multiple biological pathways underlying disease mechanisms. In this study, advanced artificial intelligence (AI)–based tools were applied to evaluate the therapeutic potential of Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, a medicinal plant traditionally recognized for its anti-inflammatory activity, in the context of inflammation and neuroinflammation. By integrating AI-driven network pharmacology with protein–protein interaction analyses, AKT1 (protein kinase B alpha) was identified as a pivotal target that mediates the plant’s pharmacological effects. This finding suggests a central role of AKT1 in modulating inflammatory signaling pathways.

To further explore these insights, molecular docking experiments were conducted using bioactive constituents derived from Berberis aristata, another well-documented medicinal plant with anti-inflammatory relevance. The docking studies focused on critical proteins involved in inflammatory processes, including AKT1, PTGS2, STAT3, PPARG, SIRT1, and MAPK1. Several compounds demonstrated strong binding affinities, in some cases comparable to or surpassing those of clinically approved anti-inflammatory drugs. Such results not only validate the computational predictions but also point to the potential of these plant-derived molecules as viable therapeutic candidates.

Overall, the findings highlight the value of combining AI technologies with polypharmacological strategies to accelerate the discovery of plant-based therapies. By identifying key molecular targets and validating compound interactions, this integrated approach offers new opportunities for developing effective treatments for inflammatory and neuroinflammatory disorders, while bridging traditional medicinal knowledge with modern computational drug discovery.

Arthritis, a progressive inflammatory disorder, significantly impacts joint health and quality of life. Despite advancements in medical treatments, there remains a growing interest in traditional medicine systems for their holistic approaches and reduced risk of side effects. This study evaluates the anti-inflammatory and therapeutic potential of an Unani formulation comprising Anthemis nobilis Linn, Eucalyptus globulus, Ferula assa-foetida, Hyoscyamus niger, Styrax benzoin, and Sesamum indicum. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of key bioactive compounds, including total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), which contribute to their therapeutic properties. Antioxidant assays, such as DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and NO, were performed using aqueous plant extracts to evaluate their free radical scavenging activity. Among the extracts, Ferula assa-foetida exhibited the highest antioxidant activity in both DPPH and ABTS assays, while Eucalyptus globulus showed the highest activity in the FRAP assay. For NO scavenging activity, Sesamum indicum demonstrated the strongest antioxidant potential. Acute toxicity testing was conducted on rats to evaluate the safety of these plants. Results indicated no toxic effects on the skin or other observed parameters, confirming their safety. Cytokine profiling studies revealed significant downregulation of key pro-inflammatory markers, including TNF-α and IL-6, highlighting the formulation’s potential to modulate inflammatory pathways effectively. These findings suggest that the selected plants can mitigate oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and support joint health, providing a natural and effective alternative for arthritis management. The study underscores the potential of these medicinal plants as accessible, sustainable therapeutic options that integrate traditional practices with scientific validation.