The Natural Products Journal (Volume 16 - Issue 7)

Recent Advances in the Microbial Oxidation and Ring Rearrangement of Terpenoidal Compounds by Aspergillus niger

2026-03-07

In this review, recent advances in the microbial oxidation and ring rearrangement of various terpenoidal compounds by Aspergillus niger are reviewed. Studies on hydroxylation, acid and keto formations, Baeyer-Villiger oxidation, and ring rearrangements are also explored. Moreover, various terpenoidal compound substrates and their metabolites used for fungal biotransformations are compiled. This review attempts to cover the latest developments in the scientific literature from 2018 to 2023.

Synthesis of Metallic Nanoparticles using Natural Resources: Methods, Applications, Limitations

2026-03-07

Green nanoparticle (NP) synthesis is an innovative methodology in nanotechnology that offers an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical processes. Utilising biological organisms, such as plants, bacteria, fungi, and algae, reduces environmental impact and energy consumption. Combining naturally occurring materials and eco-friendly techniques produces highquality nanoparticles with customisable properties suitable for various applications. Green chemistry principles are essential for sustainable nanoparticle production, emphasising responsible practices prioritising human health and environmental protection. Biological nanoparticle synthesis using plant extracts and microbial biomass has proven effective in producing metal oxide nanoparticles, which have diverse applications in medicine, water treatment, environmental remediation, and targeted drug delivery. Despite challenges related to scalability, industrial efficiency, and regulatory concerns, establishing green chemistry principles as a global standard is crucial for the long-term development of nanotechnology. This review explores the latest advancements in green synthesis methods for different nanoparticle types, focusing on their applications in medical and environmental fields. It also discusses the factors influencing the production of eco-friendly nanomaterials and the barriers to their large-scale adoption. By addressing technological challenges and developing sustainable production strategies, researchers can fully realise the potential of green nanotechnology. Green synthesis is key in driving innovation, reducing environmental impacts, and supporting sustainable growth across various industries, ensuring long-term benefits for industry and global well-being.

Development and Characterization of Micro- and Nano-emulsion-based Moisturizer Formulations with Polyherbal Extracts

2026-03-07

Introduction: Herbal-based skincare products are increasingly favored for their multifunctional properties and minimal side effects. This study aimed to develop and evaluate polyherbal facial moisturizers containing Camellia sinensis (white tea) and watermelon rind extracts, targeting acneprone and dry skin.

Methods: Six oil-in-water emulsions were formulated using Phytomulse Almond or Olivem as emulsifiers. Physicochemical assessments included pH, spreadability, extrudability, moisture content, particle size, and zeta potential. Stability was monitored under various storage conditions. Antibacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis was assessed using the agar well diffusion method. FTIR analysis confirmed functional group integrity.

Results: FM1–FM4 demonstrated skin-compatible pH (4.5–6.5), superior moisture content (up to 89.89%), and favorable spreadability, comparable to commercial standards. These formulations showed antibacterial activity with inhibition zones between 7.5 and 9.2 mm; FM1 exhibited the strongest response. Stability tests confirmed formulation homogeneity and consistent organoleptic features at room temperature. FTIR spectra validated the presence of polyphenolic and lipid-based active compounds.

Discussion: The observed physicochemical performance and antimicrobial activity were significantly influenced by emulsifier type and formulation matrix. Phytomulse-based emulsions (FM1–FM4) enabled efficient bioactive delivery, whereas Olivem-based ones (FM5–FM6) showed weaker inhibition, likely due to compound entrapment. FTIR spectra and performance data confirmed the compatibility of white tea and watermelon rind extracts with emulsion integrity.

Conclusion: Polyherbal moisturizers, especially FM1 - FM4, showed favorable pH, hydration, stability, and antibacterial properties, supporting their potential in acne-prone and dry skin care. Further in vivo and clinical evaluations are warranted to confirm their therapeutic effectiveness and user acceptability.

Gastrodia elata Blume: From Nutritional Profiling to Modern Drug Design

2026-03-07

Gastrodia elata Blume (GEB) is a perennial herbaceous plant with a history of medicinal and culinary uses spanning thousands of years. It has been included in multiple authoritative pharmacopoeias and exhibits promising applications in functional foods and dietary supplements. Phytochemical studies have revealed that the rhizome of GEB contains a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including vitamins, essential minerals, phenolic derivatives, organic acids, and phytosterols. To date, 285 compounds have been isolated and identified from GEB, along with multiple types of GEB polysaccharides. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that GEB possesses multifaceted functional effects. In addition to its traditional roles in neuroprotection, cardio protection, antidepressant activity, and analgesia, recent research has highlighted its significant roles in gastroprotection and bone protection. These findings suggest that Gastrodia elata holds potential clinical application value in the treatment of neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, digestive system disorders, and bone metabolic diseases. To further enhance the oral bioavailability and targeted delivery efficiency of GEB's active compounds, researchers are actively exploring novel drug delivery systems. For instance, advanced delivery systems can significantly improve the stability and in vivo absorption efficiency of GEB's active constituents, thereby strengthening their therapeutic effects. This study systematically reviews the botanical characteristics, bioactive components, therapeutic effects, and recent advances in novel drug delivery systems of GEB. Through comprehensive analysis of existing research, it not only provides scientific evidence for further development and utilization of Gastrodia elata but also offers a clear direction for its industrial applications in functional foods, drug formulations, and related fields.

Bolusanthus speciosus (Bolus) Harms - The Monotypic African Genus with Interesting Phytochemical Characteristics and Biological Activity

2026-03-07

The monotypic species Bolusanthus speciosus (Bolus) Harms (Leguminosae family) is native to Botswana, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Different parts of B. speciosus are traditionally used to treat conditions such as abdominal pains, stomachache, kidney problems, tuberculosis, and venereal diseases. A detailed description of the taxonomy, botany, distribution, pharmacology, and phytochemistry of B. speciosus is presented in this review work. A total of 53 secondary metabolites, mainly alkaloids, and isoflavonoids, are reported. Crude extracts and some secondary metabolites isolated from B. speciosus possess an array of biological activities including antimicrobial, anti-HIV-1, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.

In-vitro and In-silico Antibiofilm Activity and Phytochemical Profiling of Extracts of Marine Macroalgae Collected from the Red Sea

2026-03-07

Introduction: Biofilms cause human health-related issues like chronic infections and affect the performance of materials in the aquatic environment. Natural products are considered a potential agent for controlling biofilm growth on surfaces. Marine macroalgae are a good source of novel bioactive metabolites. In this study, the antibiofilm activity of extracts from Dictyota dichotoma (brown alga), Ulva reticulata (green alga), and Acanthophora spicifera (red alga) was analyzed against biofilm-forming bacteria isolated from marine waters. This study aimed to analyze the phytochemical composition and antibiofilm activity of three macroalgal extracts.

Methods: Antibiofilm activity was assessed against two biofilm-forming strains. The phytochemical components, such as chlorophyll a, carotenoids, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and total polyphenols, were analyzed to understand their contribution to biofilm inhibition. The secondary metabolite composition of the extracts was identified using GC-MS, and the detected compounds were used for molecular docking against the Biofilm-associated protein (Bap) of Staphylococcus aureus.

Results: The results revealed strong antibiofilm activity (more than 50% inhibition) in all three algal species, with higher activity recorded for the brown alga. Macroalgal extracts altered cell surface hydrophobicity and reduced the extracellular polymeric substance production in biofilm bacteria. Results indicated that A. spicifera (red alga) had high carbohydrate content, while U. reticulata (green alga) had high protein content. The carotenoids and chlorophyll a contents were higher in the green alga. GC-MS analysis showed a greater number of compounds for the brown alga, followed by the red and green algae.

Discussion: Most of the identified compounds were predicted to be potential antibiofilm agents (with biofilm inhibition efficiency > 60%) based on a Biofilm database. Strong binding affinities were observed between some of the metabolites and the biofilm-associated protein of S. aureus in molecular docking analysis.

Conclusion: The results suggest that the Red Sea macroalgae are good sources of antibiofilm compounds that could be used for both pharmacological and environmental applications.

The Constituent Analysis and the Anti-diabetic Activity of Cyclocarya paliurus (Batal) Iljinsk

2026-03-07

Introduction: Cyclocarya paliurus (Batal) Iljinsk, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has been historically used for diabetes management. This study aimed to identify some key bioactive compounds in C. paliurus and evaluate their anti-diabetic effects.

Methods: The bioactive compounds in C. paliurus were identified and structurally characterized using HPLC-ESI-HRMS fragmentation analysis. The anti-diabetic activity of the ethyl acetate and n-butanol extracts was subsequently evaluated through both in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Results and Discussion: Constituent analysis successfully identified some key bioactive compounds in C. paliurus. In vitro and in vivo bioactivity experiments demonstrated that both two extracts exerted moderate effects of glucose utilization improvement.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that C. paliurus extracts contain bioactive compounds capable of improving glucose metabolism in insulin-resistant conditions. The observed in vitro and in vivo anti-diabetic effects support its traditional application in diabetes management.