Turbidity and sediment formation in pomegranate juice (PJ) is a consequence of the interaction between tannins and proteins. The aim of this study was to disrupt this interaction by enzymatic hydrolysis of tannins ["tannase," "lactonase (R-PON-1)"] and proteins (papain). The effect of enzymatic treatments on sediment/turbidity was studied throughout storage (20 °C). Low and tight sediment formation was only possible when protein and tannins were hydrolysed together. In "tannase + R-PON-1 + papain" treated PJ, turbidity decreased after storage and the lowest and tightest sediment was also detected (p < 0.05). The strongest correlations were found between the "prolamin/punicalagin-2" ratio and turbidity (r = 0.997) and tight sediment formation (r = -0.964). This ratio should be 4.38 ± 0.07 to completely eliminate sediment formation in PJ. To achieve this ratio, punicalagin-2 should be added to PJ. This study is the first to show that punicalagin-2 should be added to PJ to produce a clear and sediment-free PJ, contrary to previous clarification methods.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline and memory loss, with oxidative stress and neuroinflammation playing crucial roles in its progression. Current treatments, such as acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors, offer limited symptomatic relief and can have side effects. With growing interest in functional foods that have fewer side effects, pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) has gained attention because of its rich antioxidant content. The present study aims to evaluate the antioxidant and neuroprotective effects of four pomegranate cultivars: 'Wonderful', 'Phoenicia', 'Azadi' and 'Eversweet'. Additionally, it investigates their metabolite profiles and predicts potential bioactive compounds that could help prevent AD.

The 'Wonderful' cultivar demonstrated the highest levels of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, total anthocyanin content and radical scavenging activities. The AChE and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) inhibition rates were highest in 'Phoenicia' and 'Wonderful' cultivars, suggesting potential neuroprotective effects. PC12 cell assays indicated that these cultivars significantly improved cell viability, reduced reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde levels, and also enhanced catalase activity. Metabolomics analysis identified 141 metabolites, with the 'Wonderful' cultivar showing the highest metabolite abundance. Molecular docking studies indicated that some metabolites, such as taxifolin, demonstrated strong binding affinities for AChE and BuChE, suggesting potential for AD treatment.

The 'Wonderful' and 'Phoenicia' cultivars demonstrated the most promising antioxidant and neuroprotective effects among the evaluated pomegranates, likely because of their high taxifolin content. These findings suggest that these cultivars could be valuable for developing functional foods aimed at AD prevention and treatment. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

The primary cause of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disorders is hyperlipidemia. Ellagic Acid (EA) is a naturally occurring polyphenol found in fruits and nuts. This medication has garnered attention due to its possible therapeutic benefits, encompassing the treatment of hyperlipidemia. In this study, ellagic acid was incorporated into a nanocarrier system using chitosan, a biodegradable polymer, via an ionotropic gelation technique, aiming to enhance its solubility and bioavailability. The effects of ellagic acid-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (EA-CS-NPs) were evaluated in a hyperlipidemic mouse model induced by poloxamer 407 (PL-407). Administration of a single intraperitoneal dose of 300 mg/kg body weight of PL-407 resulted in the induction of hyperlipidemia. The mice were grouped into five groups: Control, PL-407, EA-free drug, blank CS-NPs, and EA-CS-NPs. Serum analysis included the measurement of liver function biomarkers, lipid profiles, and liver antioxidant capacity. Additionally, a histopathological evaluation of liver tissue was performed. This study showed that PL-407 treatment increased hepatic oxidative stress and serum lipid biomarkers, with significant liver tissue changes in hyperlipidemic mice. EA-CS-NPs exerted the most protective effects, improving hepatic antioxidant capacity, serum lipid profile, and hepatic histological changes, highlighting their potential as a therapeutic approach for hyperlipidemia.

This study investigates the impact of various beverages and salads on lipid oxidation and the formation of malondialdehyde (MDA), glyoxal (GO), and methylglyoxal (MGO) during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion of beef and chicken. Meat samples were digested alongside beverages (grape juice, red wine, pomegranate juice, ayran, hardaliye, and shalgam) and salads (Mediterranean, red cabbage, and coban salad). HPLC analysis revealed that red wine, pomegranate juice, hardaliye, and shalgam significantly reduced MDA levels in both meat types (up to 77%), while grape juice increased MDA in beef (27%) and orange juice in chicken (80%). Shalgam was most effective in reducing MGO levels (54%), though red wine, pomegranate juice and, hardaliye increased GO and MGO levels. Red cabbage and Mediterranean salads reduced MDA across all samples, while coban salad was less effective. Ayran reduced MDA in both meats but increased MGO, especially in chicken (102.9%). Results indicate that antioxidant-rich beverages and salads can mitigate lipid oxidation and oxidative stress markers in meats during digestion, varying effectiveness by component. This highlights the value of selecting dietary additions to enhance meat quality and reduce oxidative damage.

Pomegranate, native to Iran and Central Asia, has a long history of cultivation and widespread dissemination through trade. Its extensive geographic distribution highlights its ecological adaptability and economic importance. The fruit contains about 80% water, 12-20% carbohydrates, and 10-60 mg of dietary fiber per 100 g. It is rich in vitamins, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Pomegranate also contains bioactive compounds like polyphenols, flavonoids, triterpenes, and tannins, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties. The concentration of bioactive compounds varies by genotype and environmental conditions, with Punicalagin ranging from 16.67 to 245.47 mg/g and Ellagic acid between 0.44 and 3.04 mg/g. Genotypic variations significantly influence the bioactive potential. Historically consumed as fresh fruit or juice, pomegranate's by-products, such as peels and leaves, also contain bioactive compounds. Recent research has expanded its applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and high-tech industries, promoting sustainable resource utilization. This review provides an overview of pomegranate's cultivation, composition, bioactive substances, and research advancements for further development.

Background: Chronic inflammation increases morbidity in older adults and significantly impacts healthy ageing. Pomegranate extract (PE), rich in polyphenols, has been suggested to reduce inflammation and could prevent cardiovascular disease. However, there is limited research examining the potential of PE in disease prevention in ageing. Methods: A two-arm double-blind parallel trial was conducted, in which participants received either placebo capsules (maltodextrin) or pomegranate extract (740 mg) daily for 12 weeks. At baseline, week 6, and week 12, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and blood samples were collected. Serum inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1-α, IL1-β, IL-2, TNF-α, CRP and PAI-1), fasting blood glucose, and lipid levels were also measured. Results: A total of 86 participants met the eligibility criteria, with 76 completing the trial. A significant interaction between treatment and time was observed for the IL-6 (p = 0.02) and IL1-β (p = 0.05) levels, with both parameters significantly decreasing in the PE group. CRP and TNF-α showed a downward trend in the PE group, but it was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Systolic blood pressure significantly decreased in the PE group (by 5.22 ± 1.26 mmHg (SE), p = 0.04), indicating potential clinical relevance, with diastolic blood pressure showing a similar downward trend (2.94 ± 1.08 mmHg (SE), p = 0.3). Despite being apparently healthy with no diagnosed diseases, a substantial number of participants exhibited elevated levels of inflammatory markers and systolic blood pressure. Conclusions: PE can lower inflammatory markers and blood pressure, which can be high in both normal-weight and overweight older adults, making it a cost-effective measure to promote healthy ageing. Further long-term studies are needed to address the limitations of this 3-month study, including the overrepresentation of normal-weight participants, and to gain a better understanding of the impact of weight on the above-mentioned outcomes.

Olinia rochetiana is one of the medicinal plants traditionally used in Ethiopia to treat various ailments, including wounds, snake bites, tuberculosis, and cancer. However, there is a lack of comprehensive investigation regarding the biological activities of the phytoconstituents extracted from its leaves. This study aims to isolate compounds and evaluate their in vitro antibacterial properties and DPPH radical scavenging activities, complemented by in silico molecular modeling. Thirteen compounds were identified using GC-MS from combined fractions 4-17. Ursolic acid (14), 5-hydroxy-4-methyl-5,6-dihydro-(2H)-pyran-2-one (15), hyperoside (16), and 4-O-β-d-glucopyranosylcaffeic acid (17) were purified using chromatographic techniques and characterized using 1D and 2D NMR spectral data and a thorough comparison with literature data. At 5 mg/mL, the inhibition zones (IZs) of isolated compounds ranged from 9.00 to 12.67 mm against all of the evaluated bacteria. Among all isolated compounds, compound 14 exhibited more inhibition against Streptococcus pyogenes with an inhibition zone of 12.67 mm, and compound 17 also exhibited potent inhibition activity against Staphylococcus aureus with an inhibition zone of 11.00 mm. Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were better inhibited using compound 16 with IZs of 12.30 and 11.70 mm, respectively. The antibacterial activity of compound 16 against E. coli and P. aeruginosawas validated using in silico molecular docking studies against the target enzymes E. coli DNA gyrase B (-8.4 kcal/mol) and Pseudomonas quinolone signal A (-9.3 kcal/mol), respectively. At 62.5 μg/mL, the highest (89.2%) and the lowest (50.5%) DPPH radicals were scavenged by compounds 16 and 14, respectively. Compounds 14, 15, and 17 obey Lipinski's rule of five, and none of the isolated compounds were predicted to be fatal if swallowed. These findings reinforce the traditional use of the plant as a remedy for various bacterial diseases. However, further in vivo studies are essential to assess the biological and toxicological properties of the isolated compounds.

Fipronil (FPN), a pesticide frequently used in veterinary medicine and agriculture, has been linked to adverse health consequences in non-target creatures. This study was conducted to determine the phytochemical and vitamin content of pomegranate peel ethanolic extract (PPE) and to assess its hepatoprotective impact in rats exposed to FPN insecticide. The phytochemicals were tested using LC-MS/MS, whilst the vitamins were evaluated using HPLC. Six groups of male albino rats were treated for three months, including the control group and those treated with PPE (400 mg/kg b.w.), FPN at low dosage (16.16 mg/kg b.w.), or high dose (48.5 mg/kg b.w.) alone or in combination with PPE. Blood and tissue samples were taken for various hematological, biochemical, and histopathological analyses. HPLC results revealed that PPE contains water and oil-soluble vitamins; also, LC-MS/MS identified 21 chemicals belonging to tannins, steroids, tannins, flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins. The biological study revealed that FPN caused dose-dependent changes in RBCs, WBCs, MCHC, PLT count, MCH, MCV, Hb, HCT, ALT, AST, ALP, Alb, TP, urea, uric acid, creatinine, Cho, Tri G, HDL, LDL, CAT, SOD, MDA, GST, testosterone levels, and histological changes in liver and kidney. PPE administration did not show any significant changes in all the tested parameters. Co-administration with FPN and PPE induced a significant improvement in all the tested parameters towards the control levels, owing to its strong antioxidant activity. Consequently, PPE should be considered a dietary supplement in areas with high levels of FPN exposure.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a widely cultivated fruit historically recognized for its health benefits and is regarded as a nutritional powerhouse. Pomegranate has a unique composition of bioactive compounds including hydrolysable tannins, anthocyanins, and other polyphenolic components. Of those, punicalagin and its subsequent metabolites are the most extensively studied, demonstrating antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-nociceptive activity. The compounds possess promising therapeutic potential for many diseases, including conditions affecting the female reproductive system. This scoping review examines the pharmacodynamics of pomegranate's bioactive compounds and synthesizes the current literature concerning the role in benign gynecological disorders. Pomegranate extract decreased testosterone levels, levels of oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, erstwhile favorably impacting some cardiovascular risk factors in women. Pomegranate supplementation improved menopause specific health-related quality of life in women. In a pre-clinical murine model following ovariectomy, improved bone formation and reduced vaginal atrophy were associated with pomegranate treatment. Existing data suggests that additional research on the beneficial antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-nociceptive effects of pomegranate extracts for benign gynecologic conditions is warranted.

The use of Gongronema latifolium for the management of various forms of neurological disorders has generated a lot of interest in the need to further investigate its neurotherapeutic constituents. This work, therefore, focused on assessing the inhibitory potential of selected bioactive components derived from G. latifolium against key neurotherapeutic targets and oxidant species associated with neurodegeneration using in vitro analysis and biomolecular modelling. G. latifolium methanol extract (GLME), solvent partition, chromatographic fractions (A-F) of GLME and pregnane compounds (Iloneoside and marsectohexol) derived from fraction-B with the highest activity were investigated for in vitro acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition in addition to their in vitro antioxidant activities. The interactions of iloneoside, marsectohexol, and reference drugs with human acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and β-secretase (BACE-1) were further assessed using molecular docking, binding free energy calculations, cluster analysis, and molecular dynamics simulations. The GLME and fractions inhibited the activities of both acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase in a dose-dependent manner. Iloneoside and marsectohexol exhibited in vitro concentration-dependent inhibitory activities against acetylcholinesterase (IC50 = 19.28, 184.9 µM, respectively) and butyrylcholinesterase (IC50 = 30.75, 43.4 µM, respectively). These compounds also possess ferric ion-reducing, hydroxyl, and superoxide radical-scavenging activities. Iloneoside had the highest docking scores of -9.8, -9.9 -9.4 Kcal for AChE, BChE, and BACE1, respectively. The stability of the interaction of the bioactive compounds with the catalytic residues of the protein targets was preserved in a 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation. Iloneoside, a rare pregnane glycoside, was identified as a neurotherapeutic constituent of G. latifolium leaf. Further studies are suggested to investigate the neurotherapeutic potential in animal models.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) have been subject of extensive studies for its abundance of phytochemicals and numerous biological and medicinal properties. It is a fruit-bearing tree, which is widely consumed as a nutraceutical source as well as functional food for putative health benefits. The phenolic components are the characteristic bioactive constitutes of pomegranate, including hydrolysable tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. The whole plant of this tree has many medicinal folkloric uses and good therapeutic effect, such as anticancer, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, hypoglycemic, lipid-lowering, cardioprotection and digestive system protection. Through comprehensive search of available literature, this narrative review can provide an up-to-date overview of the current knowledge of characteristic bioactive constituents's structure and potential health benefits of Pomegranate, which can be used as reference for the future clinical and basic research, and also helpful for the development of pomegranate into functional food and nutraceuticals.

In recent years, the interest of consumers in fruit juice extracts as nutraceuticals has increased. Fruits, especially red berries, contain valuable bioactive compounds such as polyphenols. Polyphenols are often associated with anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, cardioprotective and gastroprotective properties. However, the relationship between the various effects of fruit juice extracts and their influence on the permeability of the intestinal barrier, as well as their influence on glucose transport across the intestinal membrane, is not known. Therefore, in the present study, anthocyanins and copigments were obtained from 11 fruit juice extracts by XAD7 column chromatography and characterized their health-promoting effects, as well as their influence on the intestinal membrane. Chokeberry, pomegranate and blueberry extracts showed the highest antioxidant activity, but showed incomplete regeneration of the intestinal membrane upon treatment-induced higher permeability. This may depended on the high anthocyanin level of these extracts. Treatments with gojiberry extract, elderberry extract and the copigment fraction of apple achieved the best suitable regeneration of the intestinal barrier. The transcription of epithelial glucose transporters GLUT1 und GLUT2 as well as for the oxidative stress genes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were most effectively reduced by chokeberry extract. To sum up, fruit juice extracts possess high antioxidant potentials and can reduce the expression of antioxidant enzymes and glucose transporters in colon cells. While the glucose uptake may be reduced, the intestinal permeability is increased, which varies due to the extract composition. Therefore, fruit juice extracts need to be fractionated and characterized in more detail to identify the health-beneficial compounds.

Background/objectives: Cognitive decline and loss of physical function are common concerns in older adults, with limited effective interventions available. This study aimed to assess the impact of pomegranate extract (PE) supplementation on cognitive and physical function in older adults aged 55-70 years. Methods: A randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 86 participants, who were assigned to receive either PE (740 mg) or a placebo (maltodextrin) daily for 12 weeks. Cognitive function was assessed using computerised tests (Corsi, digit span, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), Tower of Hanoi, Stroop test and Rey auditory verbal learning test). Physical function was measured through assessments of standing balance, gait speed, chair sit to stand and grip strength. Results: There was a significant effect of treatment and time on WCST performance (F (1,2) = 2.718, p = 0.05), while trends towards better outcomes in the PE group were noted for digit span, Tower of Hanoi and Stroop tests. Physical function did not seem to be affected by the intervention, but results may have been limited by the high baseline physical activity levels and full mobility of the older adults. Conclusions: This was the first study to examine the effect of PE on cognitive and physical function over a duration of 12 weeks. Findings suggest that PE supplementation has potential in improving cognitive function and may offer a promising approach to preventing cognitive decline in ageing adults. Further controlled and well-designed long-term studies are needed to establish the long-term effects of PE on cognitive and physical health, along with the mechanisms of action involved.

This study investigates the incorporation of pomegranate juice into the fermentation process to produce a novel rosé sparkling wine with enhanced antioxidant properties and improved acidity while preserving desirable sensory qualities. Initial trials blended a Glera base wine with 5%, 10%, and 15% pomegranate juice, followed by bottle fermentation to select the optimal formulation. The 10% blend, identified as the best, underwent a second fermentation in an autoclave using the Martinotti method. Chemical analyses were conducted to assess polyphenol content, protein stability, antioxidant activity, and colour, while sensory evaluations determined the flavour balance and acceptability. Results demonstrated that pomegranate juice significantly increased polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity. The 10% blend achieved balanced acidity, sweetness, and carbonation, with pronounced fruity and floral aromas. However, protein stability tests revealed haze formation, emphasizing the need for stabilization refinements. This study highlights the feasibility of integrating pomegranate juice into sparkling wine production. It explores alternative and innovative uses for pomegranate to maximize its potential beyond traditional applications, leverages its unique properties, such as high antioxidant content, to enhance value-added products, and demonstrates its potential to diversify the portfolio of fruit wines while appealing to modern consumer preferences.

Tannins, a diverse class of polyphenolic compounds, are widely present in a variety of plant-based foods and beverages, where they contribute significantly to flavor, astringency, and numerous health benefits. Known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties, tannins are associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. Their bioavailability and metabolism are influenced by factors such as polymerization, solubility, and interactions with the gut microbiota. Tannin-rich beverages, including tea, wine, fruit juices, and cider, offer a range of health-promoting effects, including antioxidant, cardioprotective, and antimicrobial activities. In addition, tannins contribute significantly to the sensory and nutritional characteristics of fruits, nuts, and vegetables, influencing flavor, color, and nutrient absorption. The levels and efficacy of tannins are subject to variation due to factors such as ripeness and food processing methods, which can increase their impact on food quality and health. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the bioactive roles of tannins, their nutritional implications, and their sensory effects, highlighting their importance in both dietary applications and overall well-being.

Dietary polyphenols are garnering attention in the scientific community due to their potential health-beneficial properties and preventative effects against chronic diseases, viz. cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and neurodegenerative diseases. Polyphenols are antioxidants that change microbial composition by suppressing pathogenic bacteria and stimulating beneficial bacteria. The interaction of polyphenols with dietary fibers affects their bioaccessibility in the upper and lower parts of the digestive tract. Dietary fibers, polyphenols, their conjugates, and their metabolites modulate microbiome population and diversity. Consuming polyphenol-rich dietary fibers such as pomegranate, cranberry, berries, and tea improves gut health. A complex relationship exists between polyphenol-rich diets and gut microbiota for functioning in human health. In this review, we provide an overview of the interactions of dietary polyphenols, fibers, and gut microbiota, improving the understanding of the functional properties of dietary polyphenols.

Punica granatum, commonly known as pomegranate, is a traditional medicinal agent owing to its antiquity. The scientific literature has shown that pomegranate extracts exhibit favorable modulation of diverse signaling pathways. These pathways encompass those implicated in inflammation, angiogenesis, hyperproliferation, cellular transformation, tumorigenesis initiation, and ultimately, a reduction in advanced metastasis and tumorigenesis. Pomegranate extracts in this context can be attributed to their high polyphenol content, which has been observed to possess inhibitory properties toward specific signaling pathways associated with cancer. As a formidable pathology, cancer is the most significant cause of death worldwide after cardiovascular disease. The annual incidence of cancer-related mortality has increased progressively. Modifying one's dietary patterns, engaging in regular physical exercise, and maintaining an optimal body mass index are three straightforward measures that an individual may undertake to mitigate their susceptibility to cancer. Incorporating diverse vegetables and fruits into one's dietary regimen exhibits promising potential for preventing a minimum of 20% cancer incidence and approximately 200,000 cancer-related mortalities annually. Vegetables and fruits contain high levels of minerals and phytochemicals, which help alleviate and prevent the harmful effects of cancer. These substances are safe and exhibit minimal toxicity in biological systems. Furthermore, they exhibit antioxidant properties and have garnered extensive approval for their use as nutritional supplements. Pomegranates are used in ancient cultures to prevent and treat various diseases. Extensive research on pomegranate extract, fruit, oil, and juice has revealed promising findings regarding their potential anti-proliferative, anti-tumorigenic, and anti-inflammatory properties through the modification of various signaling pathways related to cancer, thus demonstrating their potential as drugs to prevent and treat cancer. Emerging research indicates that pomegranate can potentially prevent and treat different cancers, including prostate, bladder, breast, skin, lung, and colon cancer.

1. This study evaluated the effectiveness of different types of acidifiers on reproductive performance, body weight loss and plasma biochemical indices of breeding pigeons as well as on growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality and plasma biochemical indices of squabs.2. In a 45 d trial, 144 pairs of European white Mimas pigeons were selected and randomly divided into three experimental groups. Three groups of pigeons were fed plain pigeon grit (NC), pigeon grit supplemented with 5% single acidifier (SAG) and pigeon grit supplemented with 5% combined acidifiers (CAG).3. Supplementing with SAG and CAG significantly increased the weight gain in male pigeons from 1-12 d of incubation. However, SAG and CAG had no significant effect on the feed intake of breeding pigeons during incubation, but significantly increased total feed intake of breeding pigeons during the lactation period. Breeder pigeons fed SAG and CAG had significantly higher egg-laying rate at 40 d. In addition, feeding SAG and CAG significantly increased growth rate and slaughter weight of squabs, but SAG reduced the diameter of pectoral muscle fibres. Biochemical indices showed that feeding SAG and CAG improved metabolism and increased the liver function of breeder pigeons and squabs.4. In conclusion, supplementing pigeon grit with acidifiers increased feed intake of breeding pigeons during lactation, protected liver function, enhanced reproductive performance and promoted the growth and development of squabs.

Oxidative stress (OS), generated by the overrun of reactive species of oxygen and nitrogen (RONS), is the key cause of several human diseases. With inflammation, OS is responsible for the onset and development of clinical signs and the pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD is a multifactorial chronic neurodegenerative syndrome indicated by a form of progressive dementia associated with aging. While one-target drugs only soften its symptoms while generating drug resistance, multi-target polyphenols from fruits and vegetables, such as ellagitannins (ETs), ellagic acid (EA), and urolithins (UROs), having potent antioxidant and radical scavenging effects capable of counteracting OS, could be new green options to treat human degenerative diseases, thus representing hopeful alternatives and/or adjuvants to one-target drugs to ameliorate AD. Unfortunately, in vivo ETs are not absorbed, while providing mainly ellagic acid (EA), which, due to its trivial water-solubility and first-pass effect, metabolizes in the intestine to yield UROs, or irreversible binding to cellular DNA and proteins, which have very low bioavailability, thus failing as a therapeutic in vivo. Currently, only UROs have confirmed the beneficial effect demonstrated in vitro by reaching tissues to the extent necessary for therapeutic outcomes. Unfortunately, upon the administration of food rich in ETs or ETs and EA, URO formation is affected by extreme interindividual variability that renders them unreliable as novel clinically usable drugs. Significant attention has therefore been paid specifically to multitarget EA, which is incessantly investigated as such or nanotechnologically manipulated to be a potential "lead compound" with protective action toward AD. An overview of the multi-factorial and multi-target aspects that characterize AD and polyphenol activity, respectively, as well as the traditional and/or innovative clinical treatments available to treat AD, constitutes the opening of this work. Upon focus on the pathophysiology of OS and on EA's chemical features and mechanisms leading to its antioxidant activity, an all-around updated analysis of the current EA-rich foods and EA involvement in the field of AD is provided. The possible clinical usage of EA to treat AD is discussed, reporting results of its applications in vitro, in vivo, and during clinical trials. A critical view of the need for more extensive use of the most rapid diagnostic methods to detect AD from its early symptoms is also included in this work.

Two different produced and packaged commercial typologies of pomegranate juice were analyzed for their physicochemical, nutritional, and biological properties. The effects of classical pasteurization (PJ) and high-pressure processing (HP), applied during the productive cycle, were evaluated through several advanced analytical methods, such as CIEL*a*b* colorimetry, HPLC-DAD, DI-ESI-MS and MS/MS, and NMR analyses. Moreover, the exerted biological activity of the two pomegranate juices was monitored through Total Phenolic and Total Flavonoid Contents, antiradical, antioxidant and chelating activity. The potential inhibition of key enzymes of degenerative processes (cholinesterases, tyrosinase) and diabetes (amylase, glucosidase), the allelopathy toward Cichorium intybus, Dicondra repens, and Diplotaxis tenuifolia, and the in vivo toxicity on brine shrimp were also evaluated. The two different applied processing techniques analyzed impacted the bioactive compound's preservation differently, modifying the phytocomplex profile. HP significantly degrades punicalins and punicalagins, better preserving anthocyanins, if compared to PJ's impact. Sensory qualities, antioxidant activity, enzymatic inhibition, and ecotoxicological potential were differently impacted by the two applied processes. The obtained results can be beneficial for finding the optimal processing conditions that balance microbial safety with nutritional value preservation, contributing to the development of healthy pomegranate juice products.

The potential of Carissa spinarum (Cs), an underutilized plant rich in medicinal and nutritional value, for producing ready-to-serve (RTS) beverages was explored. The research investigated commercial processing techniques for extracting Cs fruit juice and the impact of stabilizers such as pectin (low and high), xanthan gum, and sodium alginate on beverage quality. Sodium alginate, chosen for its sedimentation rate and sensory acceptability, was further optimized in RTS formulations. These formulations, with 10% Cs fruit juice at different °Brix concentrations (10 (T1), 12 (T2), and 14 (T3)), were refrigerated (4 ± 0.5 °C) for 60 days, for shelf life studies, alongside physicochemical (pH, vitamin C, titratable acidity, total sugars, anthocyanin, total phenolics, flavonoids, DPPH activity) and sensory assessments. The treatments showed significant improvements in physicochemical stability compared to controls. HPLC analysis confirmed the retention of bioactive compounds Cyanidin-3-glucoside, Chlorogenic acid, Syringic acid, and Resveratrol in RTS beverages. Sensory evaluation indicated a higher level of acceptance, with overall acceptability ranked as follows on a 9-point hedonic scale: T2 (7.01) > T3 (6.92) > T1 (6.58) > Control (5.46). The study underscores Cs's bioactive potential and promising role in functional beverage development, appealing to health-conscious consumers due to retained nutrition and nutraceuticals during storage, offering convenient and flavorful options.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13197-024-06017-w.

The aim of this study was to find out how well pomegranate use affects quality of life and PMS symptoms.

This randomised controlled trial (Clinical trial number: NCT06201702) was conducted in a city in the western region of Turkey, reaching women with PMS through social media announcements. Data were collected between 2 January 2024 and 15 May 2024. In the study of 60 participants (intervention group: 30, control group: 30), the intervention group was given pomegranate exrat supplementation for 2 cycles, while the control group did not receive any intervention. The research data were collected through a descriptive information, Premenstrual Syndrome Scale and World Health Organisation Quality of Life Scale. IBM SPSS Version 23 software was used for data analysis. Chi-square test, paired sample t-test and independent sample t-test were used. P-value <.05 was considered statistically significant.

When the intervention and control groups were compared in terms of premenstrual syndrome scores, a statistically significant difference was found and it was observed that symptoms decreased significantly in the intervention group after the intervention (p < .05). However, no statistically significant change was observed in the control group (p > .05). When the quality of life scores after the intervention were evaluated, it was seen that the social quality of life of the intervention group was higher than the control group (p < .05).

This study shows that pomegranate may be a potential natural solution, especially in reducing PMS symptoms, and may also be effective in improving social quality of life.

Following a plant-based diet is associated with a wide range of health benefits. The current study aimed to investigate the association between plant-based diet indices, specifically the plant-based diet index (PDI), healthful PDI (hPDI), and unhealthful PDI (uPDI) and risk of mortality in cirrhotic patients.

This cohort study included a total of 121 patients with cirrhosis, who were followed for four years. Plant-based diet indices were calculated based on a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire consisting of 168 items. The Hazard ratio (HR) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using the Cox proportional risk models.

During 414 person-year of follow-up, 43 deaths (7 women, 36 men) were documented. After adjusting all confounders, it has been found that the PDI (HR T3 vs. T1 = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.03-0.89, P trend = 0.024) and hPDI (HR T3 vs. T1 = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.02-0.61, P trend = 0.020) were inversely associated with the risk of mortality. While uPDI was directly associated with a significant increase in mortality risk (HR T3 vs. T1 = 8.74, 95% CI = 0.33-17.14, P trend = 0.018). The 4-year survival rate among patients showed a significant relationship with all three indices.

Our findings highlight that higher scores of PDI and hPDI can significantly reduce the risk of mortality in patients with cirrhosis, while a significant increase in mortality risk was found in those with higher uPDI. However, confirmation of these findings requires further studies.

This study examines the effects of various complementary light spectra on the growth, development, antioxidant activity, and nutrient absorption in strawberry plants under stress conditions. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) were used to provide specific wavelengths, including monochromatic blue (460 nm), monochromatic red (660 nm), a dichromatic mix of blue and red (1:3 ratio), full-spectrum white light (400-700 nm), and ambient light as a control (no LED treatment). The stress treatments applied were: control (no stress), salinity (80 mM NaCl), alkalinity (40 mM NaHCO₃), and a combined salinity/alkalinity condition.

Our results indicated that complementary light spectra, especially red and blue/red, helped mitigate the adverse effects of stress on plant growth and development. These spectra improved plant tolerance by enhancing the activity of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase enzymes and increasing starch accumulation in the leaves. Furthermore, under stress conditions, red and blue-red light significantly boosted fruit anthocyanin levels. Although stress elevated antioxidant activity, supplementary light reduced this activity by alleviating stress compared to ambient light. While stress led to increased Na and Cl ion concentrations in leaves, treatments with blue, red, and blue-red light minimized these harmful effects and promoted the absorption of beneficial ions such as K, Mg, Fe, and Cu.

Adjusting light quality significantly influences the morphology and physiology of strawberry plants, underscoring the role of specific light spectra in promoting optimal growth under stress conditions.

Not applicable.

Excess weight gain is a growing concern worldwide, fueled by increased consumption of calorie-dense foods and more sedentary lifestyles. Obesity in China is also becoming increasingly problematic, developing into a major public health concern. Obesity not only increases the risk of associated disease but also imposes a burden on health care systems, and it is thus imperative that an effective intervention approach be identified. Recent studies have demonstrated that the polyphenol-rich Mediterranean diet has considerable potential in this regard. Polyphenols can inhibit the production of adipocytes and reduce adverse reactions, such as inflammation, insulin resistance, and gut microflora imbalance. In this review, we examine four polyphenols (curcumin, ellagic acid, ferulic acid, and quercetin) in terms of their potential as interventions targeting obesity. The mechanisms that help promote adipocyte browning, increase thermogenic factors, increase thermogenesis, and regulate adipocyte differentiation are summarized, and key signaling pathways, including PPARγ, C/EBP-, and others, are reviewed.

(1) Background: This systematic review explores the bioactive properties of Punica granatum (pomegranate) and its potential applications in the prevention and treatment of gingivitis, periodontitis, and other oral diseases. (2) Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on pomegranate and oral diseases. Inclusion criteria included studies evaluating the effects of pomegranate on oral health, while exclusion criteria eliminated non-peer-reviewed and non-English articles. This review aims to assess the efficacy of pomegranate extracts as a natural alternative to synthetic pharmaceuticals in oral health care. A structured search strategy included key terms such as "pomegranate", "oral health", "gingivitis", and "periodontitis". A total of 125 relevant references were reviewed to identify the most pertinent findings. (3) Results: The results indicate that pomegranate extracts have demonstrated efficacy in reducing plaque, inhibiting harmful oral microorganisms, and promoting overall oral health. Furthermore, clinical studies highlight the potential of pomegranate-based products, such as mouthwashes and gels, as viable alternatives to conventional pharmaceuticals, particularly in resource-limited settings. However, the review also notes the need for further research, particularly in the form of clinical trials, to establish optimal formulations and long-term safety. (4) Conclusions: Pomegranate presents a promising, natural solution for preventing and treating gingivitis and periodontitis. Further studies should focus on long-term effects and clinical efficacy.

The present work focuses on preparation of hydroxyapatite from pomegranate peels by precipitation method. The hydroxyapatite derived from pomegranate fruit peels (HA-PP) was characterized by XRD, FT-IR, SEM-EDS and BET techniques. The HA-PP has mesoporous in structure and had an area of 99.021 m2/g. Further HA-PP was used as adsorbent for the removal of Cr (VI) ion particles from K2Cr2O7. The adsorption trials were executed and found the optimized solution using response surface methodology (RSM). The experiments included parameters like pH 2, initial chromium concentration 200 mg/L, adsorbent loading 0.8 g, and contact time 60 min, respectively. Cr (VI) removal was 89.4 % at the optimum combination of these process parameters. A mathematical and statistical optimizing technique response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to verify the interactive effects of various parameters on the adsorption capacity. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to predict the adequacy of the model (F 82.16) shows developed model is valid with R2 value 0.987, and p-value (>0.1). In this the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model are well explained for Cr (VI) adsorption onto HA-PP. This reaction is spontaneous and endothermic, as indicated by the negative change in the standard free energy (ΔG0 = -0.1732) and ΔH0 (+4.71) value at the selected temperature. The ΔS0 (+15.89) further confirms that the randomness increased at the solid-solution interface during adsorption.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the predominant form of liver cancer and ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. The liver performs a wide range of tasks and is the primary organ responsible for metabolizing harmful substances and foreign compounds. Oxidative stress has a crucial role in growth and improvement of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nuclear factor erythroid 2 (1)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an element that regulates transcription located in the cytoplasm. It controls the balance of redox reactions by stimulating the expression of many genes that depend on antioxidant response elements. Nrf2 has contrasting functions in the normal, healthy liver and HCC. In the normal liver, Nrf2 provides advantageous benefits, while in HCC it promotes harmful effects that support the growth and survival of HCC. Continuous activation of Nrf2 has been detected in HCC and promotes its advancement and aggressiveness. In addition, Activation of Nrf2 may lead to immune evasion, weakening the immune cells' ability to attack tumors and thereby promoting tumor development. Furthermore, chemoresistance in HCC, which is considered a form of stress response to chemotherapy medications, significantly impedes the effectiveness of HCC treatment. Stress management is typically accomplished by activating specific signal pathways and chemical variables. One important element in the creation of chemoresistance in HCC is nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Nrf2 is a transcription factor that regulates the activation and production of a group of genes that encode proteins responsible for protecting cells from damage. This occurs through the Nrf2/ARE pathway, which is a crucial mechanism for combating oxidative stress within cells.

Mangifera indica peels are a rich source of diverse flavonoids and xanthonoids; however, generally these are discarded. Computational studies revealed that mangiferin significantly interacts with amino acid residues of transcriptional regulators 1IK3, 3TOP, and 4f5S. The methanolic extract of Langra variety of mangoes contained the least phenol concentrations (22.6 ± 0.32 mg/gGAE [gallic acid equivalent]) compared to the chloroform (214.8 ± 0.12 mg/gGAE) and ethyl acetate fractions (195.6 ± 0.14 mg/gGAE). Similarly, the methanolic extract of Sindhri variety contained lower phenol concentrations (42.3 ± 0.13 mg/gRUE [relative utilization efficiency]) compared with the chloroform (85.6 ± 0.15 mg/gGAE) and ethyl acetate (76.1 ± 0.32 mg/gGAE) fractions. Langra extract exhibited significant α-glucosidase inhibition (IC50 0.06 mg/mL), whereas the ethyl acetate fraction was highly active (IC50 0.12 mg/mL) in Sindhri variety. Mangiferin exhibited significant inhibition (IC50 0.026 mg/mL). A moderate inhibition of 15-LOX was observed in all samples, whereas mangiferin was least active. In advanced glycation end product inhibition assay, the chloroform fraction of Langra variety exhibited significant inhibition in nonoxidative (IC50 64.4 μg/mL) and oxidative modes (IC50 54.7 μg/mL). It was concluded that both Langra and Sindhri peel extracts and fractions possess significant antidiabetic activities. The results suggest the potential use of peel waste in the management and complications of diabetes.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is considered a functional food due to its polyphenol content that benefits the body. The type of processing the fruit undergoes is important, as this also influences the concentrations of these compounds. The pomegranate juice was extracted by two methods: manual extraction using a manual juicer through heat treatment in a water bath (Man-P), and extraction through mechanical pressing using Good Nature X-1 equipment and hyperbaric sanitization (Mech-Hyp). Bromatological analyses showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) between the two treatments. When subjected to hyperbaric sanitization, the juice showed higher concentrations of moisture, soluble solids, protein, and carbohydrates. In an antioxidant analysis, the ABTS radical showed no significant difference in the treatments, with 96.99% inhibition. For the DPPH radical, the sample with the highest inhibition was Man-P with 98.48%. The determination of phenols showed that there was a higher concentration in juice that underwent pasteurization (104.566 mg GAE/mL). However, the Mech-Hyp treatment exhibited a minor concentration of phenols with 85.70 mg GAE/mL. FTIR spectra revealed that the functional groups were mainly associated with carbohydrates. Regarding ACE inhibition, it was observed that the Man-P and Mech-Hyp juices showed greater inhibition of enzyme in hypertensive patients compared to normotensive patients. This activity can be attributed to the mechanisms of action of antioxidant compounds. Both extraction methods manual and mechanical pressing resulted in increased antioxidant and antihypertensive activity. The antioxidant compounds accompanied by adequate sanitation were decisive in an antimicrobial analysis, since no pathogenic microorganisms were observed in the juices.

In recent years, severe climate change leading to by water scarcity reduced water quality has increased the need for effective irrigation strategies for agricultural production. Among these, the reuse of reclaimed water represents a non-expensive and reliable solution. The effect of conventional or reclaimed water, applying convention or smart fertigation system, were investigated during two irrigation seasons on yield, qualitative and biochemical traits of pomegranates fruit (cv Wonderful One) at harvest, and after storage at 7 °C. The results of this study showed that using reclaimed waters with different fertigation systems did not affect the pH values, total soluble solids, and titratable acidity on pomegranates fruit showing slight decrease changes only during postharvest storage. On the other hand, the respiration rate was not affected by water quality. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity was also preserved during storage in pomegranates fruit from plants irrigated with reclaimed water by applying conventional or smart fertigation. The analysis also identified 52 compounds by UHPLC-MSn and HPLC-UV-Vis analyses. A slight decrease (about 17 %) at harvest and during storage in polyphenols content was shown in fruit grown using reclaimed water. The study demonstrates that using reclaimed water is a sustainable and effective way to limit the use of conventional water for irrigating pomegranate crops without significant reduction in yield, or in qualitative and nutritional values of the fruit at harvest and during storage.

Cold plasma treatment is an innovative technology in the food processing and preservation sectors. It is primarily employed to deactivate microorganisms and enzymes without heat and chemical additives; hence, it is often termed a "clean and green" technology. However, food quality and safety challenges may arise during cold plasma processing due to potential chemical interactions between the plasma reactive species and food components. This review aims to consolidate and discuss data on the impact of cold plasma on the chemical constituents and physical and functional properties of major food products, including dairy, meat, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and grains. We emphasize how cold plasma induces chemical modification of key food components, such as water, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, polyphenols, and volatile organic compounds. Additionally, we discuss changes in color, pH, and organoleptic properties induced by cold plasma treatment and their correlation with chemical modification. Current studies demonstrate that reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in cold plasma oxidize proteins, lipids, and bioactive compounds upon direct contact with the food matrix. Reductions in nutrients and bioactive compounds, including polyunsaturated fatty acids, sugars, polyphenols, and vitamins, have been observed in dairy products, vegetables, fruits, and beverages following cold plasma treatment. Furthermore, structural alterations and the generation of volatile and non-volatile oxidation products were observed, impacting the color, flavor, and texture of food products. However, the effects on dry foods, such as seeds and nuts, are comparatively less pronounced. Overall, this review highlights the drawbacks, challenges, and opportunities associated with cold plasma treatment in food processing.

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been recognized as important mediators of intercellular communication able to transfer active biomolecules across the plant and animal kingdoms. EVs have demonstrated an impressive array of biological activities, displaying preventive and therapeutic potential in mitigating various pathological processes. Indeed, the simplicity of delivering exogenous and endogenous bioactive molecules to mammalian cells with their low cytotoxicity makes EVs suitable agents for new therapeutic strategies for a variety of pathologies. In this study, EVs were isolated from Opuntia ficus-indica fruit (OFI-EVs) and characterized by particle size distribution, concentration, and bioactive molecule composition. OFI-EVs had no obvious toxicity and demonstrated a protective role in the inflammatory process and oxidative stress in vitro model of chronic skin wounds. The results demonstrated that pretreatment with OFI-EVs decreased the activity and gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) in the LPS-stimulated human leukemia monocytic cell line (THP-1). Furthermore, OFI-EVs promote the migration of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs), speeding up the normal wound healing processes. This study sheds light, for the first time, on the role of OFI-EVs in modulating important biological processes such as inflammation and oxidation, thereby identifying EVs as potential candidates for healing chronic cutaneous wounds.

Amidst the growing concern of antimicrobial resistance as a significant health challenge, research has emerged, focusing on elucidating the antimicrobial potential of polyphenol-rich extracts to reduce reliance on antibiotics. Previous studies explored the antifungal effects of extracts as potential alternatives to conventional therapeutic strategies. We aimed to assess the antibacterial and antifungal effects of standardised pomegranate extract (PE) and lemon extract (LE) using a range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and two yeast species. Additionally, we assessed the antimicrobial activities of common antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin, Imipenem, Gentamicin, and Ceftazidime), either alone or in combination with extracts, against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. PE displayed substantial antibacterial (primarily bactericidal) and antifungal effects against most pathogens, while LE exhibited antibacterial (mostly bacteriostatic) and antifungal properties to a lesser extent. When compared with antibiotics, PE showed a greater zone of inhibition (ZOI) than Ciprofloxacin and Ceftazidime (p < 0.01) and comparable ZOI to Gentamicin (p = 0.4) against Staphylococcus aureus. However, combinations of either PE or LE with antibiotics exhibited either neutral or antagonistic effects on antibiotic activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. These findings contribute to the existing evidence regarding the antimicrobial effects of PE and LE. They add to the body of research suggesting that polyphenols exert both antagonistic and synergistic effects in antimicrobial activity. This highlights the importance of identifying optimal polyphenol concentrations that can enhance antibiotic activity and reduce antibiotic resistance. Further in vivo studies, starting with animal trials and progressing to human trials, may potentially lead to recommendation of these extracts for therapeutic use.

Polyphenols are natural secondary metabolites found in plants endowed with multiple biological activities (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardioprotective, and anticancer). In view of these properties, they find many applications and are used as active ingredients in nutraceutical, food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic formulations. In accordance with green chemistry and circular economy strategies, they can also be recovered from agroindustrial waste and reused in various sectors, promoting sustainable processes. This review described structural characteristics, methods for extraction, biological properties, and applications of polyphenolic extracts obtained from two selected plant materials of the Mediterranean area as olive (Olea europaea L.) and pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) based on recent literature, highlighting future research perspectives.

Fruits are rich in bioactive compounds, such as (poly)phenols, and their intake is associated with health benefits, although recent animal studies have suggested that the photoperiod of consumption influences their properties. Fruit loss and waste are critical issues that can be reduced by obtaining functional fruit extracts. Therefore, the aim of this study was to obtain phenolic-enriched extracts from eight seasonal fruits that can modulate blood biochemical parameters and to investigate whether their effects depend on the photoperiod of consumption. Eight ethanol-based extracts were obtained and characterized, and their effects were studied in F344 rats exposed to short (6 h light, L6) and long (18 h light) photoperiods. Cherry and apricot extracts decreased blood triacylglyceride levels only when consumed under the L6 photoperiod. Pomegranate, grape, and orange extracts reduced cholesterol and fasting glucose levels during the L6 photoperiod; however, plum extract reduced fasting glucose levels only during the L18 photoperiod. The results showed the importance of photoperiod consumption in the effectiveness of phenolic-enriched fruit extracts and promising evidence regarding the use of some of the developed fruit extracts as potential functional ingredients for the management of several blood biomarkers.

This study investigates sustainable extraction protocols for the recovery of bioactive compounds from by-products of various pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cultivars, including Acco, Hicaz, Jolly Red, Parfianka, Valenciana, and Wonderful, generated during the industrial processing of the fruits. Advanced extraction technologies, including ultrasounds, microwaves, and hydrodynamic cavitation, have been compared to conventional extraction procedures and utilized to enhance extraction efficiency while also minimizing environmental impact. Water-based extraction methods have been utilized to promote the development of sustainable and eco-friendly processes. The comparison between conventional extractions and ultrasound-assisted extractions (UAEs) and microwave-assisted extractions (MAEs) demonstrated notable improvements in extraction yields, particularly for ellagitannins (punicalins, punicalagins, and ellagic acid) and total polyphenols, with increases ranging from about 45 to 200%. However, the increases directly comparing UAEs to MAEs ranged from about 4 to 6%. This indicates that while both UAEs and MAEs offer notable improvements over conventional extractions, the differences in extraction efficiency between the two advanced methods were relatively modest. These advancements were observed across various pomegranate cultivars, highlighting the versatility and effectiveness of these methods. Notably, hydrodynamic cavitation-based extractions (HC) emerged as particularly promising, consistently yielding the highest levels of bioactive compounds (ellagitannins and total polyphenols), especially when operated at higher frequencies. Compared to conventional extractions, HC exhibited substantial increases in extraction yields for Wonderful pomegranate by-products, surpassing the efficiency of both UAEs and MAEs (approximately 45 and 57% for UAE and MAE, respectively, versus about 80% for HC). Among these advanced techniques, HC has emerged as particularly promising, yielding the most favorable results and leading to significant improvements in the yield of bioactive compounds. When directly compared to UAEs and MAEs, HC increased extraction yields by over 20%. Furthermore, HC allowed for shorter extraction times. The Wonderful cultivar consistently exhibited the highest levels of ellagitannins and the highest total polyphenol content among all types of extraction procedures used, whether conventional or advanced. This highlights the great potential of the Wonderful cultivar in terms of bioactive compound extraction and underscores its significance in research and applications related to pomegranate processing and utilization. This study suggests that the implementation of these advanced technologies into extraction processes represents a significant advancement in the field, offering a promising avenue for the development of efficient and environmentally friendly extraction methods for obtaining valuable bioactive compounds from pomegranate processing by-products.

Pomegranate juice (PJ) has a possible anti-inflammatory effect because of its polyphenol content and antioxidants. However, the anti-inflammatory effect of PJ in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) has not been consistent. A previous meta-analysis conducted in 2016 reported a nonsignificant lowering effect of PJ on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to update the pooled effect size of PJ supplementation on CRP levels in RCT studies. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were comprehensively searched until July 2023. Eligible studies were found by screening, their relevant data was extracted, and a risk of bias assessment was performed. The pooled effect size was calculated using a random effect model as the weighted mean difference (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval. This systematic review included 11 studies with 13 effect sizes and 696 participants. Meta-analysis showed that PJ supplementation led to a significant decrease in CRP levels compared to control groups (WMD: -2.55 mg/L; 95%CI: -3.44 to -1.66; p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis demonstrated the significant reduction effect of PJ on CRP levels in studies conducted on the both sexes or only females as well as Iranian population, individuals with 40 years≤, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, or trials that intervened with PJ dosage of <250 ml/day. Meta-regression and dose-response analysis reported a nonsignificant linear and nonlinear relationship between intervention characteristics (duration and dose of PJ) and CRP changes. The current meta-analysis revealed that PJ supplemantation has a beneficial effect in improving CRP levels. It is recommended to understand this effect better, and find the optimal dose and duration of PJ supplementation to reduce CRP levels in the blood, and repeat meta-analysis after related RCTs are available. For the final proof of these effects, more detailed human studies are needed.

Two new compounds named 3(S)-hydroxy-1-(2,4,5-trihydroxy-3,6- dimethylphenyl)-hex-4E-en-1-one (1) and acremonilactone (2), together with nine known compounds (3-11), were isolated from the fermentation broth of Acremonium sp. associated with marine sediments collected from South China Sea. NMR and HRESIMS spectroscopic analysis elucidated the structure of two new compounds. Compound 2 had characteristic rotary gate shape skeleton with a six-membered lactone. Compounds 1 and 9 showed DPPH radical scavenging activity with inhibition rates of 96.50 and 85.95% at the concentration of 0.5 mg/ml, respectively. Moreover, compounds 4, 6 and 11 showed definite antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538.

Clematis hirsuta is one of the traditional medicinal plants used in Ethiopia to treat different ailments, such as cancer and diseases related to the respiratory system. This study aimed to isolate the phytochemical components of the root of C. hirsuta and evaluate their in vitro and in silico biological activities. Oleic acid (1), palmitic acid (2), sterols (3 and 4), boehmenan (5), and carolignans E (6 and 7) were isolated by silica gel column chromatography and preparative thin layer chromatography and characterized by NMR spectroscopy. Compounds 5-7 were isolated from the plant for the first time. At 5 mg/mL, the inhibition zone of evaluated compounds ranged from 8.80 to 11.10 mm against all selected bacteria. The MIC of the MeOH and n-hexane: EtOAc (1 : 1) extracts was greater than or equal to 50 mg/mL against all selected bacteria. At 62.5 μg/mL, the % DPPH radical scavenging activity of tested compounds ranged from 30.3% to 92.1% with an IC50 value of 19.4 to 2.1 μg/mL. The results of molecular docking studies indicated that the docking scores of compounds 3-7 ranged from -6.4 to -7.9 kcal/mol against E. coli DNA gyrase B, -8.3 to -9.0 kcal/mol against the Pseudomonas quinolone signal A, -7.1 to -8.5 kcal/mol against pyruvate kinase M2, and -7.9 to -8.5 kcal/mol against human topoisomerase IIβ. The results of the in silico antibacterial activity of compounds 3, 5, and 6 supported the in vitro antibacterial test results. Compound 5 had a better docking score against human topoisomerase IIβ than the other test samples demonstrating its potential as an anticancer agent. Therefore, compounds 3-7 could be considered as a lead for developing antibacterial and anticancer drugs. Moreover, the presence of these active phytochemicals supports the traditional use of this plant against cancer and bacteria.