International Journal of Biochemistry Research & Review

Physiological and Biochemical Mechanisms of Drought Tolerance in Plants: A Review

A. Reshma, S. Nagalakshmi, Y. Lakshmi Prasanna, N. Mounica — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

One major environmental factor limiting plant productivity is water scarcity. Drought stress affects plant water relations at the cellular, tissue, and organ levels, eliciting both specific and nonspecific responses, as well as causing damage and triggering adaptive mechanisms. Tolerant plants initiate multiple defense mechanisms against water deficit in order to cope with drought. i.e. biochemical and physiological processes. The main morpho-physiological mechanisms include smaller, succulent leaves to lessen transpirational loss, improved water uptake with profuse and deep root systems and its efficient use, and reduced water loss through increased diffusive resistance. Osmotic adjustment enhances the gradient for water influx and supports turgor maintenance by lowering the cell’s osmotic potential. Low-molecular-weight osmolytes, including glycine betaine, proline, other amino acids, organic acids, and polyols, play a crucial role in sustaining cellular functions under drought conditions. Other essential mechanisms of drought tolerance include the expression of stress proteins, cell membrane stability, and the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Enzymatic antioxidants—such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione reductase—play a pivotal role in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Non-enzymatic antioxidants such as ascorbic acid, reduced glutathione, cysteine, and carotenoids also contribute to ROS scavenging and protection of cellular structures. Phytohormones and plant growth regulators are also integral in modulating plant physiological responses to drought stress.

Epigenetic Influences of Vitamin D on Immune System Development in Early Life

M. Madhubala — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Vitamin D plays an important immunomodulatory role during early life, influencing the programming of the developing immune system through molecular and epigenetic mechanisms. Emerging evidence suggests that the active form of vitamin D, calcitriol, regulates gene expression by binding to the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and modifying epigenetic marks such as DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and microRNA expression. These mechanisms influence key immune regulatory genes including FOXP3, IL-4, and IL-10, thereby promoting regulatory T-cell development and maintaining the balance between Th1 and Th2 immune responses during infancy. Maternal and neonatal vitamin D deficiency may disrupt these epigenetic processes, potentially predisposing infants to infections, allergic diseases, and immune dysregulation later in life.

Understanding these mechanisms may provide insights into the long-term effects of early-life vitamin D status on immune health and susceptibility to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. These findings underscore the potential of vitamin D as a modifiable factor in early-life nutritional interventions and preventive healthcare strategies. This review highlights the molecular and epigenetic pathways through which vitamin D shapes immune development in early life, with a focus on vitamin D receptor–mediated transcriptional regulation and its impact on immune-metabolic interactions. Additionally, the role of vitamin D in influencing key immune pathways such as Th1/Th2 balance and inflammatory responses is discussed. This review summarizes current evidence on the molecular epigenetic pathways through which vitamin D shapes infant immune development and highlights the potential implications for early-life immune programming and disease prevention.

Unravelling the Begomovirus-mediated Tomato Leaf Curl Disease: An In-depth Review of Pathogenesis and Host Interaction

Akanksha Singh, Vikash Kumar, H. K. Chourasia — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Tomato leaf curl disease (ToLCD), caused predominantly by begomoviruses (family Geminiviridae) and transmitted by the whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), represents one of the most devastating viral diseases of tomato worldwide. The disease exhibits symptoms such as upward leaf curling, mosaic patterns, stunted growth, and severe yield losses, posing a major threat to global tomato production. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the molecular pathogenesis of begomovirus-mediated ToLCD, focusing on viral genome organisation, replication strategies, and the roles of viral proteins in host manipulation. We explore the complex host–virus interactions, including the modulation of host defence pathways, symptom development, and the interplay between the virus, vector, and host environment. The review also highlights advances in diagnostic tools, molecular characterization techniques, and insights from transcriptomic and proteomic studies that have enhanced understanding of ToLCD biology. Furthermore, it examines current strategies for disease management, including host resistance, RNA interference, and integrated vector management approaches. A deeper understanding of begomovirus–host interactions will be essential for mitigating the impact of ToLCD on global tomato production. By integrating recent findings from molecular biology, genetics, and plant–virus interaction studies, this review aims to unravel the molecular basis of ToLCD pathogenesis and highlight knowledge gaps that must be addressed to develop durable and sustainable disease management strategies.

A Case of Pseudo-bisalbuminemia and Nephrotic Syndrome in an Adult

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Bisalbuminemia, whether hereditary or acquired, remains a rare electrophoretic abnormality of albumin; "pseudo-bisalbuminemia” is even rarer. It presents in several forms and is not a pathological condition in itself. In this paper, we report a rare case of "pseudo-bisalbuminemia” in an adult with nephrotic syndrome. In patients with nephrotic syndrome, significant quantitative and qualitative changes in serum proteins occur due to increased glomerular permeability and selective urinary protein loss. Hypoalbuminemia, increased hepatic synthesis of certain proteins, and alterations in albumin structure or binding properties may modify the electrophoretic profile. Rarely, nephrotic syndrome may be associated with pseudo-bisalbuminemia, potentially related to altered albumin metabolism, drug interactions, or post-transplantation modifications under conditions of heavy proteinuria and systemic inflammation. The detection of bisalbuminemia on the electrophoresis, even without inherent pathological significance, should nevertheless alert the clinician, especially when clearly associated with nephrotic syndrome in an adult. Outside of this context, the presence of interfering molecules should also prompt the prescriber to adopt an appropriate approach to this abnormality. The hyperlipidemia results from hypoalbuminemia, which reactively and nonspecifically stimulates hepatic synthesis of all proteins, including lipoproteins. It is also linked to increased LDL and VLDL production, associated with reduced catabolism. This case also presents the peculiarity of an impure nephrotic syndrome; nearly 90% of nephrotic syndromes are pure, generally responsive to corticosteroids, and have a good prognosis.

In silico Evaluation of Anti-inflammatory Compounds from Euphorbia hirta against Inflammatory Drug Target Proteins Associated with Asthma

Akpan, Saviour Emmanuel, Eghianruwa, Queensley Adesuwa — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects the airways in the lungs. The airways become inflamed and narrow, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma symptoms can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe.

Aims: This study identified and evaluated potential anti-inflammatory compounds in Euphorbia hirta and assessed their ability to inhibit inflammatory drug targets associated with asthma using molecular docking analyses.

Methodology: A comprehensive ligand library was constructed based on GC-MS analysis data of Euphorbia hirta, providing molecular details of various phytochemical compounds. Molecular docking simulations using AutoDock Vina, AutoDock tools, and Discovery Studio Visualizer were performed against target proteins associated with asthma (Interleukin 4, Interleukin 5, Leukotriene receptor, and Tumour Necrosis Factor-Alpha) to assess binding affinity and specificity of the compounds.

Results: In the current study, Ergost-5-En-3-Ol, which is a sterol, was observed to be a promising lead compound for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs, as seen in the binding affinity. Ergost-5-En-3-Ol, a sterol compound, emerged as a promising lead candidate for potential anti-inflammatory drug development. It demonstrated significant binding affinity to the selected drug target proteins, particularly TNF-α, IL-4, IL-5, and Leukotrienes. The binding interactions involved in the active sites of these proteins indicated potential interference with inflammatory signalling, crucial for asthma pathology. Moreover, Ergost-5-En-3-Ol adheres to Lipinski's rule of five, suggesting potential oral bioavailability.

Conclusion: This study confirms the anti-inflammatory properties of Euphorbia hirta and suggests its use for the development of a new therapeutic agent for managing asthma. Ergost-5-En-3-Ol warrants further investigation as a potential anti-inflammatory drug candidate. Furthermore, Ergost-5-En-3-Ol meets Lipinski's rule of five criteria, suggesting its potential for oral bioavailability, a crucial factor for drug development.

Physicochemical Properties of Flours from Four Traditional Cassava (Manihot esculenta CRANTZ) Varieties Grown in Côte d’Ivoire

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is widely cultivated in developing countries and serves as an important raw material for food and industrial uses. Due to its high perishability and cyanogenic compounds, it is commonly processed into flour or starch; therefore, understanding the physicochemical properties of cassava flour from different varieties is essential.

Aims: This study evaluated the physicochemical properties of flours should be produced from four traditional cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) varieties grown in Côte d’Ivoire.

Study Design: the objective was to compare their characteristics to assess their suitability for processing and agro-industrial applications.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Laboratory of Biocatalysis and Bioprocesses, University Nangui Abrogoua (Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire) between 2017 and 2020.

Methodology: This study was conducted with four traditional varieties of cassava (Yacé, Cahobahi 1, Bonoua 37, and Bonoua 34). Cassava roots were harvested at maturity, then washed, peeled, grated, dried and milled into flour. Physicochemical analyzes included proximate composition (moisture, ash, organic matter, reducing sugar, starch content, titratable acidity, pH and hydrocyanic acid) using standard AOAC methods (AOAC, 2005).

Results: The results were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Significant differences were observed among the flours for most of the parameters studied. The flours exhibited low moisture content (between 10.55±0.15 and 12.97±0.55%), indicating good storage stability, and high starch contents (between 29.8±1.1 and 37.7±1.1%), reflecting high energy potential.

Conclusion: the four traditional cassava varieties studied exhibited distinct physicochemical properties suggesting different technological uses. These findings highlight the potential of local cassava varieties for food product development in Côte d’Ivoire.

Computational Exploration of 4-Hydroxy-3-Methoxycinnamic Acid Derivatives Derived from Natural Product Scaffolds for Anticancer Activity

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Objective: This study seeks to investigate 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (Ferulic acid) derivatives using computational approaches—specifically Lipinski’s Rule of Five, ADMET profiling, Mol-Inspiration analysis, and molecular docking—in order to evaluate their drug-likeness, pharmacokinetic properties, and therapeutic potential, with a particular focus on lung cancer treatment.

Methodology: The study examined the physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic properties of 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid derivatives substituted with aromatic amines through in-silico approaches. Computational analyses were performed using web-based tools and specialized programs, including Pre-ADMET, Mol-Inspiration, and Molegro Virtual Docker 6.0.

Result and Discussion: Computational evaluation of 15 aromatic amine–substituted 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (Ferulic acid) derivatives demonstrated favourable drug-likeness, as confirmed by Mol-Inspiration analysis and compliance with Lipinski’s Rule of Five. ADMET predictions indicated promising pharmacokinetic behaviour with minimal toxicity risks. Molecular docking against tyrosine kinase targets (PDB IDs: 4ZSE, 8A27, 5T4B, 6CU6) revealed strong binding affinities, with 6CU6 showing the most significant interactions suggestive of inhibitory potential. Key binding modes included hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking with active site residues, underscoring the suitability of these derivatives as potential lead candidates for lung cancer therapy.The test compound FA-6 exhibited the highest binding affinity with a MolDock score of −172.892, forming multiple hydrogen-bond interactions with Ala 146, Lys 147, Asp 119, Thr 35, Ser 17, Asp 33, Tyr 32, Arg 12, Gly 60, and Lys 16 indicating strong and stable binding within the active site. In comparison, the standard drug gefitinib showed a lower MolDock score (−157.872) with fewer hydrogen-bond interactions (Thr35, Ser17, and Glu31). Overall, FA-11 demonstrated superior docking performance compared to gefitinib and other tested ligands, highlighting its potential as a promising lead compound.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the selected 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid(Ferulic acid)derivatives possess favourable ADMET profiles, strong drug-likeness, and notable tyrosine kinase inhibitory activity. These findings highlight their promise as potential lead candidates for the development of lung cancer therapeutics.

Stability Evaluation of Bambara Groundnut (Vigna subterranea L. Verdc.) Powder Using Adsorption Isotherm Analysis and GAB Modeling

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The transformation of foods into powder form, for improved preservation, ensures their availability throughout the year despite their seasonal nature. Moisture adsorption isotherms therefore constitute an essential source of information for assessing food stability and defining optimal drying and storage conditions. The storage of Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) powder requires prior hygroscopic characterization to ensure better preservation. The adsorption isotherm of Bambara groundnut powder was experimentally determined using the gravimetric method with different saturated salt solutions. The water activity range studied extended from 0.07 to 0.95 at an ambient temperature of 28 ± 2 °C. Desiccators were used to contain the prepared salt solutions at various relative humidities, above which the samples were placed. Hygroscopic equilibrium was reached after 27 to 31 days. The results revealed that the adsorption isotherm obtained was classified as type II, characterized by a sigmoid shape typical of carbohydrate-rich food products. Experimental data were fitted using the Guggenheim–Anderson–de Boer (GAB) mathematical model. The modeling showed excellent agreement with the experimental data (R² = 0.982), indicating that this model effectively predicts the hygroscopic behavior of the product. Furthermore, the moisture content of Bambara groundnut powder should be maintained below the monolayer moisture content (X₀), estimated at 0.0517 (5.17%), to ensure extended shelf life during storage.

Protective Effects of Ascorbic Acid on Gentamicin-induced Nephrotoxicity and Associated Cardiovascular Dysfunctions in Type 1 Diabetic Rats

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Diabetes mellitus is a major risk factor for chronic kidney disease, and the clinical use of effective antibiotics like gentamicin is often limited by its severe nephrotoxicity. This study evaluated the protective effects of ascorbic acid against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity and associated cardiovascular dysfunctions in a type 1 diabetic rat model. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were equally divided into four groups (n=6) as follows: Group 1 (control); group 2 (diabetic); group 3 (diabetic plus gentamicin); and Group 4 (diabetic plus gentamicin treated with ascorbic acid). Markers of renal function (urea and creatinine), primary hemodynamic parameters (blood pressure and heart rate), serum nitric oxide (NO), markers of oxidative stress [Malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂),] and endogenous antioxidants (GSH, SOD, GPx, GST) were assessed. The heart and kidney tissues were fixed in 10% neutral-buffered formalin for histology and immunohistochemical expressions of cystatin C and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) in renal tissues, and cardiac troponin I (cTnI), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) in cardiac tissues. The diabetic plus gentamicin group had significant (p<0.05) elevation in urea, creatinine, MDA, H₂O₂, blood pressure, and heart rate, but GSH, SOD, GPx, GST and NO decreased significantly(p<0.05), when compared with ascorbic acid treated rats. Histopathological lesions of moderate congestion of the kidney and severe inflammation in the cardiac tissues observed in diabetic plus gentamicin group were absent in ascorbic acid group. The expressions of ACE and cystatin C in renal tissues, and cTnI and MMP-2 in cardiac tissues were lower in ascorbic acid group. In conclusion, ascorbic acid protected against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity and cardiovascular dysfunction in diabetic rats; its inclusion in therapeutic regimen for the management of drug-induced organ damage in diabetic patients is therefore recommended.

Functional Group Analysis of Medicinal Plants in Northern Samar, Philippines

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Northern Samar, a province in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines, harbors a rich yet underexplored diversity of plant species. While earlier studies have documented the flora of its island municipalities, many mainland species remain chemically uncharacterized and underutilized. This study employed Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to analyze twelve locally available but underused plant species representing the families Amaryllidaceae, Acanthaceae, Apocynaceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Melastomataceae, Moraceae, Primulaceae, Selaginellaceae, and Urticaceae. The objective was to identify the major functional groups present in these plants and establish baseline chemical profiles that may support their potential pharmacological, nutraceutical, and industrial applications. The FTIR spectra revealed the presence of key bioactive functional groups, including alcohols, phenols, carbonyls, alkenes, and nitro compounds. These functional groups are commonly associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and other therapeutic activities. The results demonstrate the chemical diversity and bioactive potential of Northern Samar’s native flora, suggesting that these species could serve as valuable natural resources for further biochemical and pharmacological investigations. Overall, the study provides essential preliminary data that can guide future research, conservation, and sustainable utilization efforts aimed at maximizing the economic and medicinal potential of the region’s botanical resources.

Potent Inhibition of Enzymatic Browning of Yam Tubers (Dioscorea cayenensis-rotundata) Cultivar ‘zrèzrou’ using Red Onions (Allium cepa)

Judicaël Kouamé, Ya Kouamé Claude, Arthur Constant Zébré, Lucien Patrice Kouamé — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Enzymatic browning is a natural phenomenon observed in yam tubers (Dioscorea cayenensis-rotundata) without the addition of exogenous phenolic compounds. The undesirable effects of this physiological process led to the use of sulfites and their derivatives to inhibit enzymatic browning. However, the risks associated with these chemical agents and current regulations concerning their use as food additives have prompted the search for natural substances as food ingredients to replace synthetic compounds. The objective was therefore to prevent this physiological phenomenon in situ using extracts of Allium cepa (red onion, yellow onion) and Allium sativum (garlic). To evaluate the effect of natural inhibitors such as red onion, yellow onion, and garlic on browning, a yam tuber (Dioscorea cayenensis-rotundata) of the 'Zrèzrou' variety, one kilogram (1 kg) of red onion bulb, one kilogram (1 kg) of yellow onion bulb, and one kilogram (1 kg) of garlic cloves were used. This work first involved studying enzymatic browning in different parts (proximal, midline, and distal) of the yam tuber (Dioscorea cayenensis-rotundata) of the 'Zrèzrou' variety. It then aimed to prevent this physiological phenomenon in situ using extracts of Allium cepa and Allium sativum (red onion, yellow onion, and garlic) without the addition of exogenous phenolic compounds. Finally, the optimal concentration of red onion extract was determined to achieve satisfactory inhibition of enzymatic browning. The significant results obtained in this study suggest solutions for inhibiting enzymatic browning of yam tubers (Dioscorea cayenensis-rotundata) of the "Zrèzrou" variety using crude extracts of red onion bulbs, which provide satisfactory inhibition at a concentration of 0.6 g/L.

Evaluation of Some Reproductive Hormones of Female Wistar Rats Exposed to Water Pipe Tobacco

H. G. Okpokpo, K. T. Nwauche, D. Awolayeofori, A. I. Ugoh — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Water pipe tobacco (shisha) smoking has gained increasing popularity, particularly among young females under the misconception that it is less harmful than cigarette smoking. Despite growing evidence of its adverse health effects, limited information exists on its impact on female reproductive hormones. This study evaluated the effects of water pipe tobacco smoke on selected reproductive hormones of female Wistar rats. Twenty-five adult female Wistar rats (120–150g) were randomly assigned into five groups: a control group with no exposure, and four experimental groups exposed to shisha smoke for 10 or 20 minutes daily for periods of 2 or 4 weeks. Serum concentrations of estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin were determined using standard methods. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance followed by post hoc LSD, with statistical significance set at P≤ 0.05. The results showed a significant alteration in reproductive hormone levels in shisha-exposed groups compared to the control. Estrogen levels increased in moderately and highly exposed groups, while progesterone and prolactin levels significantly decreased across all exposure groups. Estrogen levels varied across groups, with a decrease observed in Group 2 (54.00 ± 4.26 pg/ml) compared to the control (65.33 ± 5.68 pg/ml), while Groups 3, 4, and 5 exhibited elevated levels (86.33 ± 4.04, 71.00 ± 6.00, and 76.33 ± 4.04 pg/ml, respectively). Progesterone levels were markedly reduced in all exposed groups (7.60 ± 4.68, 10.46 ± 1.12, 10.86 ± 1.95, and 13.20 ± 3.06 ng/ml) relative to the control group (27.26 ± 5.45 ng/ml), with statistically significant differences (p ≤ 0.05). Similarly, prolactin concentrations significantly decreased in all treated groups (ranging from 0.63 ± 0.10 to 0.73 ± 0.10 ng/ml) compared to the control (1.60 ± 0.62 ng/ml). These findings suggest that exposure to water pipe tobacco smoke disrupts hormonal balance in female Wistar rats, potentially impairing reproductive function. The study highlights the endocrine-disrupting potential of shisha smoking and underscores the need for increased public health awareness regarding its reproductive health risks.

Effect of Supplementation of Black Cumin, Turmeric and Vitamin E Mixture on Egg Production and Hatchability Performance of Japanese Quails

Bhaghyasree Majumder, Ranjana Goswami, Girin Kalita, Bikas Ch Debnath — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Poultry farming remains the predominant form of animal husbandry, significantly contributing to food security, as well as sociocultural and economic development in many countries. In India, there exists a notable imbalance between the supply and demand for meat and eggs. In numerous developing nations, the Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) is recognized as the optimal poultry species to fulfill the requirements for animal protein. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of supplementation of black cumin, turmeric and vitamin E mixture on egg production and hatchability performance of Japanese quails. 108 adult quails (72 females and 36 males), approximately 6 weeks old, were randomly selected and divided into three treatment groups: T₀ (no supplementation/control group), T₁ (1 percent mixture of black cumin and turmeric powder in a 1:1 ratio plus 100 mg of vitamin E) per kg of feed, and T₂ (2 percent mixture of black cumin and turmeric powder in a 1:1 ratio plus 200 mg of vitamin E) per kg of feed. Each of these treatment groups had three (3) replicates, each replicate consisting of 8 females and 4 males. The experimental period for the birds extended until they reached 12 weeks of age. Cages were used to rear the quails and maintained properly with standard management procedures. Age at sexual maturity was significantly earlier in treatment groups in comparison with the control group. The hen day egg production (%) was significantly higher in T₂group as compared to the control group during 5^th to 10^th week of age. while it was significantly greater in the both supplemented groups in comparison with the control group during 11^th and 12^th week. Egg weight and hatchability was recorded as non-significant among all treatment groups. However, the mean albumen index, yolk index and Haugh unit of quail eggs was significantly higher in the T2 group. It is concluded that supplementation of 2 per cent mixture of black cumin, and turmeric powder at 1:1 ratio with 200 mg vitamin E per kg feed improved egg production and egg quality characteristics in Japanese quail.

Phytochemical Study, Acute Toxicity and Efficacy of Aqueous and Hydroethanolic Plant Extracts in the Control of Insect Pests of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) in Korhogo, North Côte d’Ivoire

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Insect pests affect okra cultivation, reducing agricultural productivity. This study aimed to identify the chemical compound families, the efficacy and toxicity of aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts of Azadirachta indica, Hyptis suaveolens and Solanum lycopersicum against okra insect pests. A factorial block design was used to test the efficacy of the extracts. The impact on insect abundance was measured 24 hours after application. Phytochemical screening was carried out using colorimetric tube tests. Free radical scavenging activity and acute toxicity were assessed using the DPPH and OECD 423 methods respectively. The results showed that the extracts significantly reduced pest abundance (p=0.005). Phytochemical analyses revealed that A. indica and S. lycopersicum contain polyphenols. Aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts of H. suaveolens showed antioxidant activity. The extracts are non-toxic at doses ranging from 5 to 2000 mg/kg. Extracts of A. indica, H. suaveolens and S. lycopersicum showed efficacy against insect pests of okra, while being non-toxic to mammals. These results suggest that they are environmentally friendly and safe alternatives to chemical insecticides for managing okra pests.

Effect of Combined Supplementation of Black Cumin, Turmeric, and Vitamin E on Growth Performance and Meat Quality of Japanese Quails

Bhaghyasree Majumder, Ranjana Goswami, Girin Kalita, Bikas Ch Debnath — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The use of herbal products as natural antibiotics (phytobiotics) to enhance livestock performance is considered a safer alternative due to their low toxicity, lack of residues, cost-effectiveness, and capacity to improve livestock performance. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of the combined supplementation of black cumin, turmeric, and vitamin E on the growth performance of Japanese quails. A total of 225 chicks were allocated into three experimental groups, each comprising 75 chicks, following a completely randomized design. Each group was subdivided into three replicates, with 25 chicks in each. The treatment groups were labeled as T0 (no supplementation), T₁ (1 percent mixture of black cumin and turmeric at a 1:1 ratio plus 100 mg of vitamin E) per kg of feed, and T₂ (2 percent mixture of black cumin and turmeric powder at a 1:1 ratio plus 200 mg of vitamin E) per kg of feed. There were no significant differences in average daily feed intake among the groups. However, the mean weekly body weight was significantly greater (P<0.01) in the treatment groups. Similarly, the average daily gain showed a significant difference during the initial period, but it was statistically non-significant among the treatment groups throughout the entire experimental period. The feed conversion ratio exhibited a significant improvement (P<0.01) in the T₁ and T₂ groups during the initial phase compared to the T₀ group, although no significant effects were noted thereafter. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in carcass parameters across all treatment groups. The mean scores for sensory evaluation concerning color, flavor, texture, and juiciness were significantly elevated in the T₂ group relative to T₁ and T₀. It is concluded that the addition of a 2 percent mixture of black cumin and turmeric at a 1:1 ratio, along with 200 mg of vitamin E per kg of feed, enhanced both growth performance and sensory characteristics of quail meat.

Elaeagnus angustifolia L. Fruits as a Source of Bioactive Phenolic Compounds: Pharmacognostic and Nutraceutical Implications

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The phytochemical profile of E. angustifolia comprises secondary metabolites belonging to several chemical classes. Phenolic compounds represent one of the most extensively investigated groups, being considered essential contributors to the pharmacognostic value of medicinal plants due to the diversity of their biological activities.

Aims: The present study aimed to evaluate the phenolic composition of aqueous extracts obtained from Elaeagnus angustifolia fruits and to investigate the influence of extraction temperature on the distribution and stability of bioactive compounds.

Study Design: This study represents an experimental phytochemical investigation focused on the effect of thermal extraction parameters. The study was carried out in a laboratory setting using plant material collected from the Romanian geographical area.

Methodology: Aqueous extracts of Elaeagnus angustifolia fruits were prepared under three thermal conditions: cold extraction, 50°C, and 80°C. The phenolic profile was analyzed, focusing on phenolic acids and flavonoids, in order to evaluate the effect of temperature on compound extractability and stability.

Results: The analysis revealed the presence of representative phenolic acids and flavonoids in all extracts. Significant variations were observed depending on extraction temperature. Higher temperatures led to increased concentrations of sinapic acid and gallic acid, while epicatechin content decreased under intense thermal conditions, indicating differences in thermal stability among phenolic compounds.

Conclusion: The results support the pharmacognostic value of Elaeagnus angustifolia fruits as a source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. The findings highlight the importance of optimizing extraction parameters to obtain standardized extracts suitable for nutraceutical, phytotherapeutic, and dermato-cosmetic applications, and emphasize the potential of Romanian plant resources.

Investigation of the Effectiveness of Sodium Chloride (NaCl) Washing in Preserving Proximate and Phytochemical Quality of Dichlorvos-Adulterated Black-Eyed Beans (Vigna unguiculata)

Victoria Bennett, Udoka Bessie Igue — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Pesticides support agricultural productivity and food security, but excessive use leads to harmful residues on food, posing serious health risks—especially from organophosphates, which affect the nervous system. Vulnerable populations are most at risk, and staple crops like legumes often contain unsafe residue levels due to repeated pesticide application. This study evaluated the effects of dichlorvos adulteration and sodium chloride washing on the pH, proximate composition, and phytochemical profile of black-eyed beans. Three samples were analyzed: Sample A (control), Sample B (dichlorvos-adulterated and cooked), and Sample C (dichlorvos-adulterated, NaCl-washed, and cooked). Sample A exhibited near-neutral pH, while Sample B showed increased acidity due to pesticide degradation. Sample C demonstrated partial pH normalization, indicating reduced residual acidity. Proximate analysis showed that Sample A retained high nutritional quality, with protein (20.91%), fat (17.43%), carbohydrate (51.87%), fiber (2.83%), and ash (4.32%). In contrast, Sample B recorded reduced protein (14.32%), fat (15.46%), ash (3.54%) and carbohydrate (22.31%) and slightly lower fiber (2.38%), reflecting nutrient degradation. Although Sample C showed improvement in moisture, ash and fibre levels toward Sample B values, significant reductions persisted. GC-MS analysis revealed that Sample A contained major beneficial compounds such as Methyl 4-O-methylpentopyranoside (51.84%), cis,cis,cis-7,10,13-Hexadecatrienal (22.32%), and Methyl isohexadecanoate (16.56%). Sample B showed reduced natural phytochemicals and the presence of toxic contaminants including ethylene sulphide (14.82%) and Bis(2-sulfanylethyl) ethylboronate (12.51%). Sample C exhibited partial recovery, with beneficial compounds such as Pentaacetyl-α-D-galactosamine (21.15%) and Methyl isohexadecanoate (11.13%), alongside reduced contaminants like β-chlordene (0.57%). Overall, dichlorvos compromised food quality, while salt washing provided partial remediation.

Phytochemical Compounds and Microbial Load of the Dried and Roasted Blighia sapida Arils

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Blighia sapida, belonging to the Sapindaceae family, is a tropical tree growing in West Africa and consumed for its aril, which is rich in protein and lipids in various forms. To promote the use of this plant in human and animal nutrition, several studies have been conducted to determine some phytochemical compounds and the microbial load of dried (DA) and roasted (RA) arils. The results indicate that the total polyphenol levels are significantly different (p-value < 0.05) and abundant (2277.86-2816.30 mg/100 g (DA-RA)) with identical proportions of tannins and phytates (approximately 65 and 87 mg/100 g, respectively). Oxalates (5.04-8.76 mg/100 g) and hypoglycin A (0.46-1.33 mg/kg) are low. Flavonoids (76.86 ± 14.46-98.22 ± 4.86 mg/100 g) are statistically different for DA and RA. Microbiological contamination of the DA and RA powders is low, with Total Mesophilic Aerobic Germs TMAG (2.05-2.99 log CFU/g) and yeasts and molds (2.18-3.14 log CFU/g) present. Regarding the Staphylococcus aureus and total coliforms were absent from all samples. Aflatoxins were not quantified in the RA powders. Conversely, aflatoxin B1 (0.589 µg/kg) and B2 (0.098 µg/kg) were quantified in the DA powder. Thus, heat treatment such as roasting reduced a number of antinutritional factors (tannins and phytates) and increased resistance to certain pathogens and infections. In summary, phytochemical compounds would be acceptable and microbiological quality less acceptable at the level DA. Only roasted arils could compete with legumes such as soybeans, pistachios, and peanuts. Furthermore, arils can help combat certain cardiovascular diseases, hence their importance in nutrition. However, greater care should be taken during harvesting, and a protocol should be in place to disinfect these arils before use preservation methods are used to limit contamination by these microorganisms.