Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences

A comparative mini review of the phytochemicals and biological properties of haustorium and endosperm of Cocos nucifera

2025-05-20T15:18:22+00:00

Natural substances derived from plants and herbs are excellent sources of therapeutic drugs, offering numerous vital properties that benefit human health. Recently, there has been increased interest in utilizing natural products. One notable plant with significant nutraceutical and health benefits is the coconut tree (Cocos nucifera). Humans use various products from the coconut tree, such as coconut oil, water, and husk. Previous research has extensively explored coconut fruit’s endosperm’s nutritional, antioxidant, and phytochemical properties. However, there are limited studies on the phytochemical and nutraceutical attributes of the coconut haustorium, an edible part of the fruit. The coconut haustorium possesses considerable benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, antimicrobial, antitumor, analgesic, antipyretic, antidiarrheal, and antidiabetic properties. This review aims to summarize and compare the phytochemical and nutraceutical properties of the coconut haustorium with those of its endosperm. The findings conclude that the coconut haustorium exhibits outstanding nutraceutical and phytochemical properties comparable to the endosperm.

Computational and pharmacokinetic evaluation of Distichochlamys citrea compounds for cancer treatment

2025-05-20T15:18:05+00:00

The apoptosis pathway plays a crucial role in regulating cell survival and death. This regulatory mechanism involves two main groups of proteins: anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic members of the Bcl-2 family. An imbalance that favors anti-apoptotic proteins, particularly the overexpression of Bcl-xL, is strongly associated with cancer progression across various tumor types. As a result, targeted cancer therapies focusing on Bcl-xL have been the subject of intense research in recent decades. Studies exploring natural compounds from medicinal plants present a promising complementary approach to cancer treatment alongside traditional anticancer drugs. This study examined compounds identified in Distichochlamys citrea, an endemic Vietnamese plant known for its anticancer properties. We employed molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations to identify compounds from D. citrea with a strong binding affinity toward the Bcl-xL protein. Findings of the present study revealed that two molecules, i.e., Platyphyllone and 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid, bind stably and tightly to the hydrophobic groove of Bcl-xL, suggesting potential inhibitory effects. In-silico analyses of their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties indicate that these molecules possess anticancer, antimetastatic, anti-mitotic, and apoptosis-inducing characteristics. Furthermore, both compounds adhere well to Lipinski's rule and exhibit desirable drug-like properties, making them potential candidates for high-dose oral administration without toxicity. In addition to being present in D. citrea, Platyphyllone and 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid are also found in many commonly consumed plants. These findings contribute to the scientific basis for further investigation into the molecular structure and bioactivity of Platyphyllone and 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid as potential cancer treatments.

In-vitro screening of bio-potency of Cocos nucifera haustorium and its efficacy against HepG2 cell line

2025-05-20T15:18:15+00:00

Cocos nucifera (coconut) has been extensively studied for its nutraceutical and medicinal properties, but research on the haustorium of C. nucifera is limited. This study aimed to analyze the antioxidative, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties of the C. nucifera haustorium. Antimicrobial studies were conducted using a well diffusion technique, while antioxidative assays included DPPH, ABTS, and H₂O₂ tests. Anti-inflammatory effects were assessed using the egg albumin denaturation and HRBC assays, and the anticancer activity was evaluated with the MTT assay. Among the tested bacterial strains, the maximum inhibition zones were 13.33 ± 0.58 mm for E. coli and 12.67 ± 0.58 mm for S. aureus at a 100 µg/mL concentration. Regarding antifungal activity, the haustorium extract demonstrated minimal effect against Candida albicans. The antioxidative activity was notable, with DPPH showing 74.74 ± 1.05%, ABTS at 78.45 ± 0.86%, and hydrogen peroxide at 71.64 ± 0.68%, all at a concentration of 50 µg/mL. The anti-inflammatory effects were assessed through the egg albumin denaturation assay, which showed an activity of 72.68 ± 0.87%, and the HRBC assay, which demonstrated 83.93 ± 0.90%. These results were comparable to the standard Diclofenac sodium, which showed 81.33 ± 0.95% inhibition in the egg albumin denaturation assay and 88.3 ± 0.66% in the HRBC assay at 50 µg/mL. Similar trends were observed for anticancer activity against the HepG2 cell line. The treatment caused the cells to shrink and fragment, indicating that the haustorium exhibits significant anticancer properties, leading to apoptosis in human HepG2 cells with an IC₅₀ concentration of 43.91 µg/mL, without affecting normal cells. In conclusion, the results of this study highlight the medicinal properties of the haustorium of C. nucifera, suggesting it as a potential and promising candidate for developing novel drugs in the field of ethnopharmacology.

A Novel Herbal Combination of Cistus ladaniferus, Petroselinum crispum, and Rosmarinus officinalis (CCPR) for Managing Hypertension: Enhanced Efficacy through Synergistic Antioxidant and Hypotensive Effects

2025-05-20T15:18:35+00:00

Herbal formulations offer an intriguing option for managing various health concerns, including hypertension. This study investigated the pharmacological and safety profiles of a newly designed combination product (CCPR), which includes extracts of Cistus ladaniferus (CLE), Petroselinum crispum (PCE), and Rosmarinus officinalis (ROE). Additionally, the pharmacokinetic potential of the CCPR components was analyzed using in silico methods. The study screened in vitro antioxidant activity using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, while its efficacy was further validated through a non-invasive hypotensive test. Synergistic interactions among the extracts were evaluated using an interaction index. Based on these results, the optimized combination CCPR underwent acute toxicity and antihypertensive testing. Pharmacokinetic parameters were predicted using the SwissADME platform. The results demonstrated that CCPR exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, correlating with its hypotensive effect. The administration of CCPR at a dose of 250 mg/kg/day significantly reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared to other combinations. Furthermore, interaction index analysis confirmed the synergistic effects of the extracts within CCPR. The antihypertensive tests indicated that CCPR, at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg, significantly lowered SBP and improved oxidative stress markers compared to both the standard antihypertensive drug “Enalapril” (15 mg/kg/day) and the hypertensive model group treated with L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day). The acute toxicity test confirmed the safety of CCPR, showing no abnormalities at a single dose of 2 g/kg. In silico pharmacokinetic analysis revealed favorable properties for the major compounds in CCPR, including high absorption and minimal adverse effects, supporting its suitability for long-term use. In conclusion, the findings of this study indicate that CCPR has the potential to be an effective formulation for managing hypertension. This formulation presents a valuable approach for the pharmaceutical industry, particularly for developing dietary supplements or as adjunctive therapy.

The phytochemical screening and antioxidant potential of the hydroethanolic extract of Chenopodium album L.

2025-05-20T15:18:08+00:00

This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, mineral content, and antioxidant potential of the hydroethanolic extract of Chenopodium album (CAHE). The mineral content was analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) with samples prepared by acid digestion. Phytochemical profiling was conducted using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), employing a Supelco capillary column and helium as the carrier gas (1.21 mL/min). Mass spectra (m/z 40–600) were analyzed by matching with the NIST library. Bioactive compounds were identified based on the relative peak area and spectral comparisons. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through nitric oxide scavenging, DPPH radical scavenging, reducing power, and metal chelation assays, using ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) as standards. AAS analysis revealed high concentrations of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium, indicating the nutritional value of CAHE. GC-MS fingerprinting identified bioactive compounds such as linoleic acid ethyl ester, quercetin, and phytol, known for their antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, antioxidant assays demonstrated strong free radical scavenging activity. CAHE exhibited significant nitric oxide and DPPH radical scavenging activities compared to ascorbic acid and BHT, respectively, along with moderate metal chelating activity. These results highlight the potential of CAHE in combating diseases related to oxidative stress. The study confirms that C. album contains essential minerals and bioactive phytochemicals with potent antioxidant properties. Its capacity for free radical neutralization underscores its applicability in therapeutic and preventive healthcare products.

Bioremediation of tannery wastewater using Tetradesmus deserticola: A sustainable approach

2025-05-20T15:18:18+00:00

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Tetradesmus deserticola for the bioremediation of tannery wastewater (TWW), which contains both organic and inorganic pollutants that are harmful to the environment and human health if discharged untreated. The methodology involved culturing T. deserticola in different concentrations of TWW and assessing its ability to remove pollutants over 15 days. The physicochemical analysis of the treated TWW revealed significant reductions in key parameters, such as Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) (93.6%), total nitrogen (93.3%), phosphate (79.8%), magnesium (95.9%), and heavy metals including chromium (92.9%), zinc (82.4%), and iron (63.6%). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis confirmed the effective remediation of carcinogenic aromatic compounds, including benzene derivatives, and the transformation of complex steroids into less toxic metabolites. However, long-chain alkanes largely remained unaffected by the microalgal treatment. These findings suggest that T. deserticola can effectively remediate TWW, offering a promising and sustainable solution for wastewater treatment. Further optimization of treatment conditions may enhance the degradation of persistent compounds.

Water Quality Index for Assessing Water Purification Ecosystem Services in Jakarta Urban Lake

2025-05-20T15:18:20+00:00

This article aims to assess the ecosystem services related to water purification by analyzing the water quality conditions of three lakes in Jakarta, each with distinct characteristics. The analysis utilizes both national quality standards and the Water Quality Index (WQI). Water samples collected during the rainy and dry seasons were evaluated using the WQI, which combines various physical, chemical, and biological parameters into a single standardized score, comprehensively representing overall water quality. The study found that several water quality data points did not meet national standards for recreational use due to high levels of water pollutants. The fluctuating WQI values across the seasons indicated that seasonal variability significantly impacts water quality. The WQI scores for the lakes were categorized as medium to poor, with scores of 51.40 for Situ Babakan Lake, 45.20 for Srengseng Urban Forest Lake, and 46.20 for South Sunter Lake. Additionally, the results highlighted that water purification ecosystem services are influenced by the surrounding landscape conditions, human activities, and the presence of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) facilities. This information is expected to provide valuable insights for local government agencies to enhance lake water quality within environmental policy frameworks.

Characterization and valorization of incinerated distillery spent wash ash with sugarcane bagasse: An environmental perspective

2025-05-20T15:18:28+00:00

Distilleries that use sugarcane molasses are among the most polluting industries in India. Many of these distilleries have recently adopted zero liquid discharge (ZLD) practices by incinerating distillery spent wash, which produces a large amount of incinerated ash as solid waste. This distillery's spent wash ash is often applied to agricultural practices as a source of potash without considering its other physicochemical properties. Therefore, the primary aim of this study is to characterize the incinerated spent wash ash to identify its organic and inorganic constituents for potential sustainable development applications while avoiding adverse effects on soil. The complete analysis of the ash revealed an alkaline pH of 9.50 ± 0.85, along with various salts and heavy metals, such as iron, nickel, and chromium (ranging from 2335.21 to 2363.00 mg/kg), as well as nitrogen (10400-11312 mg/kg) and potassium (11314.80-13550.00 mg/kg). Additionally, organic compounds like 2,4-dimethylbenzene and dichloroacetic acid, which are toxic and potentially carcinogenic, were detected. Seed germination tests using Vigna radiata showed that even at low concentrations (2%), the ash inhibited growth, with radicles being more negatively affected than plumules. These findings confirm that fresh incinerated ash is highly toxic and unsuitable for direct agricultural use. The study recommends proper optimization through composting or other degradation techniques to detoxify the ash before disposal, thereby contributing to sustainable waste management practices.

Valorization and optimization of Pistachio Shell Biochar for Sustainable Reduction of Hexavalent Chromium [Cr(Ⅵ)]

2025-05-20T15:18:10+00:00

In the leather tanning industry, wastewater often contains hazardous hexavalent chromium [Cr(Ⅵ)]. Adsorption is recognized as an effective method for treating this type of wastewater. However, commercial adsorbents can be costly. This study explores the conversion of pistachio shells into biochar as a cost-effective and reusable adsorbent for chromium removal. The results showed that pistachio shell biochar (PSB) effectively removed up to 400 mg L⁻¹ of Cr(Ⅵ) at a pH of 4, with a contact time of 50 hours and a biochar concentration of 1.2 g L⁻¹. Batch studies indicated that adsorption efficiency depends on pH, biochar dosage, chromium concentration, and contact time. FT-IR analysis identified key adsorption sites for chromium, while SEM images displayed multiple attachment locations. These findings confirm the potential of PSB as an efficient, sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach for chromium remediation.

Development and optimization of a microbial fuel cells consortium by response surface methodology for the effective reduction of hexavalent chromium with power generation

2025-05-20T15:18:16+00:00

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) present a promising green technology for wastewater treatment while simultaneously generating power. However, for MFCs to be sustainable and scalable, they require significant technological and operational improvements. This study aimed to optimize the MFC process using Response Surface Methodology (RSM), which integrates modeling techniques, optimization methodologies, experimental design, and analysis. RSM was applied to evaluate the interactions among three independent variables: the working volume of wastewater, the buffer's pH, and the bacterial consortia's inoculum size. Double-chambered MFCs were inoculated with various bacterial strains, including Pseudomonas stutzeri, Microbacterium algeriense, and Bacillus stratosphericus. The results indicated that MFC performance was significantly influenced by the interactions between (i) the volume of wastewater and buffer pH, (ii) the volume of wastewater and inoculum size, and (iii) buffer pH and inoculum size. The RSM findings identified the optimal conditions for power generation and hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺) reduction as approximately 80% working volume of wastewater, a buffer pH of 6.9, and a 26% inoculum size of bacterial consortia. A strong correlation between the model predictions and experimental results confirmed the model's accuracy in capturing the interactions among the independent factors. These findings demonstrated the effectiveness of RSM in optimizing the performance of MFCs and provided valuable insights for the future development of sustainable MFC-based wastewater treatment systems.

Biological Performance of Laying Quail Supplemented with Alphitobius diaperinus Larval Meal

2025-05-20T15:18:13+00:00

The lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) is an insect pest that can potentially serve as an important protein source in poultry diets. The high protein content of A. diaperinus larvae makes them a viable alternative for inclusion in quail feed during rearing. This study analyzed quail performance when their diet is supplemented with A. diaperinus larval meal in the rearing phase. This experiment utilized a completely randomized design with four treatments and five replications. The treatments involved replacing fish meal in the diet with A. diaperinus larval meal at 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%. The results revealed that substituting A. diaperinus larval meal did not significantly affect (p>0.05) daily feed consumption, egg weight, or shell thickness. However, it significantly influenced body weight gain (p<0.05). While the weight gains at 10% and 15% larval meal inclusion were not substantially different, both were greater than those of the control group. Overall, substituting up to 15% of A. diaperinus larval meal in quail diets had no adverse effects on feed consumption, growth, egg weight, or shell thickness. Therefore, A. diaperinus larval meal may be a suitable alternative to fish meal in quail diets, offering economic benefits and opportunities for sustainable A. diaperinus larval culture.

Optimizing the Mg, Mn, and Mo co-inoculation impacts in soil using a response surface technique approach to ameliorate the N fixation efficiency of Enterobacter sp. GG1

2025-05-20T15:18:30+00:00

Nitrogen fertilizers play a crucial role in enhancing crop productivity. However, the extensive use of synthetic fertilizers in recent years can disrupt the balance of soil nutrients, leading to deficiencies or toxicities in other essential nutrients such as magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), and molybdenum (Mo). This imbalance can interfere with nitrogen cycling processes, particularly affecting the activity of nitrogenase enzymes involved in ammonium production. To improve soil fertility sustainably, it is essential to adopt eco-friendly agricultural practices that maximize the activity of nitrogen-fixing bacteria. This study used an in-vitro response surface methodology to enhance ammonium production efficiency in the nitrogen-fixing bacterium Enterobacter sp. GG1. The research aimed to optimize the co-inoculation rates of Mg, Mn, and Mo to increase nitrogen fixation efficiency. The findings revealed that the three independent variables (Mg, Mn, and Mo) significantly interacted with ammonium production. The optimal conditions resulted in a maximum ammonium production of 18.48 ppm per day per gram of biomass.

Nutritional Values of Raw and Ripe Fruits of Two Commercially Viable Banana Cultivars ‘Grand Nain’ and ‘Sabri’: Exploring for Value Addition

2025-05-20T15:18:25+00:00

Bananas are a significant agricultural commodity valued for their delicacy and nutritional benefits. However, approximately 30% of bananas are wasted, underscoring the need for strategies to add value to this fruit. Additionally, bananas have the potential to help address a global issue: micronutrient deficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional and nutraceutical values of different parts (peel and pulp) of green and ripe bananas from two cultivars, Grand Nain and Sabri. We analyzed various nutritional and nutraceutical parameters, including ash content, crude fat, fiber, carbohydrates, protein, polyphenols, antioxidant activity, and Vitamin A content. The findings revealed that unripe banana pulps contained the highest carbohydrate content, while ripe banana peels demonstrated greater overall nutrient richness in terms of fiber, protein, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which are essential for the human body. This study highlights the potential for utilizing different parts of the banana, particularly the peels, to develop value-added products.

MOLECULAR PROFILING OF BLAST RESISTANCE GENES IN LOCAL MALAYSIAN RICE (Oryza sativa L.)

2025-05-20T15:18:32+00:00

Paddy fields in Malaysia have been affected by rice blast disease since the early years of rice cultivation, and it continue to suffer from its devastating effects due to the rapid evolution of the causal pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae. Although Malaysia is home to various local indica rice, the potential for resistance among these resources remains limited. This study aims to investigate the distribution of blast resistance genes in Malaysian rice cultivars and to categorize them into clusters based on genetic similarities. We extracted DNA from 75 rice accessions and performed molecular genotyping for four blast resistance genes (denoted as Pi) using allele-specific functional markers: the major genes Pi33 (RM72) and Pi27(t) (RM259), as well as the minor genes pi21 (RM1359) and Pi26 (RM413). The results of this profiling analysis were used to construct a hierarchical dendrogram for cluster analysis. The findings revealed that Pi33 had the highest distribution frequency at 60.00%, followed by Pi27(t) at 49.33%, Pi26 at 34.67%, and pi21 at 21.33%. All rice accessions were grouped into eight clusters, with four accessions, viz., Malinja, Bahagia, Serendah, and Bario, classified together in Cluster 8 for harboring 100% of the Pi genes. Meanwhile, Cluster 1 included 17 candidates with the highest similarity to the widely used resistant variety IR64. In conclusion, this study provides a framework for marker-assisted breeding to develop blast-resistant rice cultivars with multigenic resistance, contributing to sustainable rice production in Malaysia.