Indian Journal of Natural Products and Resources (IJNPR) [Formerly Natural Product Radiance (NPR)]

Oleuropein, a natural extract from olive leaves, protects against renal ischemia-reperfusion injury via AMPK-independent regulation of autophagy and apoptosis

Hana Nasrallah — 2025-12-09

Although recent studies have indicated the protective actions of oleuropein (OLE), its effect on autophagy under ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) conditions remains unclear. We aimed to assess whether OLE’s action depends on the modulation of AMPK-mediated autophagy and apoptosis pathway in a rat model of renal I/R injury. OLE pretreatment activated autophagy markers through the phosphorylation of AMPK and its downstream target molecules and reduced apoptosis. However, Ara-A had no influence on these actions. Autophagy and apoptosis regulation by OLE were maintained despite AMPK inhibition. These findings suggest that OLE pretreatment reduces kidney injury following I/R, and this effect is related to the activation of autophagy and the inhibition of apoptosis. Importantly, the protective action of OLE is not dependent on the AMPK pathway.

Exploring 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol: A multifunctional biocontrol and therapeutic potential

Jasmine Mary Arockiaswamy — 2025-12-09

2,4-Diacetylphloroglucinol (2,4-DAPG) is a polyketide-derived secondary metabolite synthesised primarily by fluorescent Pseudomonas spp., notably P. fluorescens Pf-5, CHA0, and Q2-87. This review comprehensively explores the biosynthetic, genetic, and regulatory frameworks underlying 2,4-DAPG production, along with its broad-spectrum biological activities that bridge agricultural and biomedical significance. Despite extensive documentation of its biocontrol efficacy, research gaps persist regarding its coordinated regulation by the phl gene cluster and global networks such as GacS/GacA and small RNAs (RsmXYZ), which influence metabolite flux under environmental cues. Recent studies highlight its potent antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, nematicidal, antihelminthic, phytotoxic, and plant growth-regulating activities mediated through membrane disruption, inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation, and induction of reactive oxygen species. Its ability to trigger induced systemic resistance (ISR) via jasmonic acid and ethylene pathways enhances plant immunity and crop resilience. Beyond agriculture, 2,4-DAPG exhibits pronounced cytotoxic and anticancer potential, demonstrating selective antiproliferative effects against human lung (A549), breast (MCF-7), and leukaemia (HL-60) cell lines, along with notable anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. The pro-apoptotic mechanism involves Bax activation and caspase-3 signalling, coupled with inhibition of NF-κB, MAPK1, and WNT1 cascades. To meet the rising demand, future research emphasises metabolic engineering of high-yield Pseudomonas strains, multi-omics-guided metabolic pathway optimisation, heterologous gene expression, and bioreactor-based fermentation for scalable production. In conclusion, 2,4-DAPG represents a multifunctional metabolite with immense potential for sustainable agriculture and therapeutic innovation through large-scale, eco-efficient biomanufacturing.

Review of the multifaceted health benefits of Malaysian honeys: Impacts on pregnancy

Anissa Anjani — 2025-12-09

Honey has been utilised as traditional medicine due to its variety of health benefits. Both flavonoids and phenolic content in honey possess numerous health advantages, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Malaysian honeys such as kelulut honey (KH), tualang honey (TH), gelam honey (GH), acacia honey (AH), and pineapple honey (PH) are reported to exert positive effects towards the female reproductive system, particularly on hormonal regulation and protection against harmful materials that could lead to infertility. The nutritional compounds in Malaysian honey, including vitamin B6, iron, folate, fructose, and other minerals, are found to have positive effects on anatomical and physiological changes during pregnancy, such as reducing nausea and vomiting, improving pre-eclampsia, iron deficiency anaemia, neural tube defects, and gestational diabetes mellitus. Moreover, consuming Malaysian honey can also serve as a preventive measure against urinary tract infections during pregnancy. Previous studies have mentioned the benefits of Malaysian honey, but only a few have discussed its advantages on the female reproductive system and pregnancy. Therefore, this review aims to provide a comprehensive literature review, with a focus on the advantageous roles of chemical compositions in Malaysian honeys during pregnancy and their impacts on the female reproductive system.

Marine-derived bioactives from cephalopods for therapeutic use

Tanushree Mahapatra — 2025-12-09

Cephalopods, an advanced group within the phylum Mollusca, have emerged as a promising reservoir of bioactive compounds with diverse therapeutic properties. Various body parts of cephalopods, including their ink, skin, muscle, and internal organs, contain a range of biologically active substances, such as peptides, polysaccharides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, chitin, collagen, and glycoproteins. These compounds exhibit potent antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticoagulant and antitumor activities, making them valuable candidates for drug discovery and biomedical innovations. In recent years, research has increasingly focused on the isolation, characterisation, and functional evaluation of these marine-derived molecules, supporting their potential applications in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and wound-healing formulations. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current scientific findings on bioactive metabolites from cephalopods, highlighting their biomedical significance and prospects for therapeutic development.

Plant-Mediated green synthesis of copper, gold, and silver nanoparticles: Biomedical applications and future prospects

Muskaan Bansal — 2025-12-09

This review examines the applicability of using plant-based compounds to achieve ecologically benign and economical synthesis of copper, gold, and silver nanoparticles. Biological methods are preferred in green chemistry over traditional chemical and physical methods because they utilise the natural reduction and capping capabilities of the plant to yield cleaner synthesised products. Applying techniques such as UV-visible spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, TEM, XPS, and SEM, the paper examines how extract content, pH level, temperature, and reaction time affect nanoparticle properties. The resulting nanoparticles are of low toxicity and high biocompatibility and are thus ideal for a range of biomedical applications such as antibacterial activity, targeted drug delivery, cancer treatment, imaging, and diagnosis. Nanostructures of various types, such as bacterial, fungal, or plant extracts, as well as hybrid nanomaterials, can be synthesised by this consistent method. On the whole, green nanoparticle synthesis is a potential and sustainable alternative to traditional synthesis, and this article contains an extensive review of available data and techniques in producing innovative nanomaterials by this approach.

Major climate variables and the endangered high altitude Himalayan herb Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth.: An insight

Manoj Kumar — 2025-12-09

The Himalayas are a global biodiversity hotspot that faces threats due to climate change, over-exploitation, and invasive agriculture. Increasing temperatures have accelerated species extinctions and shifts in their high-altitude habitats. Climate change poses a significant threat to alpine and medicinal plants, impacting their growth, composition, and survival. The endangered status of these species has socio-economic implications due to their economic importance. Therefore, it is vital to study the potential impact of climate change on medicinal plants and their ecological status. This review enlisted the research work carried out on plants with respect to altitude, temperature, elevated CO₂, and drought. The present review focuses on the endangered perennial herb, i.e. Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth., an endangered medicinal plant that is useful in the treatment of many diseases in the Indian Himalayan region. Due to overharvesting from the wild, as well as climate change, its population is declining at an alarming rate. There are several studies that attempt to assess its availability and predict areas with high suitability for in situ conservation in the Himalayan region. The outcomes of the study will guide the herbal community, harvesters, drug manufacturers and government agencies on strategies to mitigate the rapid extinction of these plants.

Harnessing the potential of underutilised Buchanania lanzan Spreng.: Review on processing, nutrition, and applications

Sandeep Mann — 2025-12-09

Buchanania lanzan Spreng., known as chironji, is an underutilised tree species native to the Indian subcontinent. This species is primarily recognised for its edible seeds. The seeds are rich in proteins (19–21.6%), fats (59.1%), carbohydrates (12.1%), minerals, and vitamins. These are also a valuable source of dietary energy and are utilised in various traditional foods and as energy bars. It is also known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities, making it an important source in traditional medicine. The significance of B. lanzan extends beyond its consumption and traditional dishes. Its seeds are used in the production of edible oils, and its gum and bark find various industrial applications, including cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Despite these benefits, the species faces considerable threats due to deforestation, lack of efficient harvesting techniques, and inadequate awareness regarding its diverse uses. Promoting the conservation, cultivation, and sustainable use of wild B. lanzan can significantly contribute to food security, livelihoods, and the economy, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. This review examines the multifaceted role of the traditional B. lanzan tree in enhancing nutritional diversity, providing therapeutic benefits, and its potential to drive economic development.

Nutraceuticals: A futuristic approach in the field of biotechnology and nanotechnology

Arushi Dogra — 2025-12-09

In recent years, the significance of nutraceuticals has grown considerably due to their perceived safety, health benefits, and role as an alternative to conventional medicine. Nutraceuticals encompass a range of products derived from foods that have medicinal value. This includes food supplements, herbal products, and prebiotics, which provide additional health benefits beyond the basic nutrition obtained from a diet. One major advantage of nutraceuticals is their ability to provide therapeutic effects without the side effects typically associated with traditional medications. Nutraceuticals play a crucial role in enhancing an individual's health, preventing chronic diseases, slowing the ageing process, and supporting the overall structure and physiology of the body. They are referred to as substances that provide medical well-being by preventing diseases. Hence, nutraceuticals fall under the category of broad-spectrum biological therapies used to encourage general health and avoid chronic diseases. Modern technological advances, particularly in biotechnology and nanotechnology, have revolutionised nutraceutical development through enhanced bioavailability, targeted delivery systems, and improved stability of bioactive compounds. This article aims to enhance our understanding of nutraceuticals as a health-supporting alternative to modern medicine. The review also discusses the application and current market demand for these nutraceuticals, including fish oil preparations, prebiotics, and probiotics. Additionally, this comprehensive review examines the integration of biotechnological approaches, including genetic engineering, bioprocessing, and nanotechnology applications, in the production and delivery of nutraceuticals. By exploring the unique properties and benefits of nutraceuticals, along with emerging technological innovations, we can appreciate the value of incorporating them into our lifestyles as a means of promoting overall wellness and advancing personalised healthcare solutions.

Algal bio-stimulants: Towards a sustainable agriculture

Inderdeep Kaur — 2025-12-09

The world’s population is expected to peak at nearly 10 billion by the mid-2080s, while the demand for food is predicted to rise to ~400 million tons by 2080. With no option to extend farmland any further, increasing the yield per acre at minimal environmental cost is a viable option. Bio-stimulants offer a sustainable option to synthetic chemicals to improve plant health and enhance productivity. These chemical compounds, applied even in small quantities, generate a higher crop yield and confer resistance to biotic and abiotic stressors. The algae and algae-based products enhance seed germination, plant growth, and water and nutrient uptake in plants. Soil amendment with algae-based products improves soil structure and enhances fertility by providing macro- and micro-nutrients. Algae with a bouquet of bioactive substances in their tissues and total biomass are promising bio-stimulants. Cultivation techniques for macro-algae and micro-algae culture have immense potential for biomass generation and the production of bio-stimulants. Though India, with its vast coastline, has an abundance of algae, their potential in the food and agri-industry remains underexploited. There is a need to develop marketing strategies to popularise their use in agriculture. This can go a long way in meeting the SDG goals of sustainable consumption and Zero Hunger, as well as promoting good health and well-being.

Analysing the potential of Nephelium lappaceum L. peel as an anti-lung cancer agent through an in-silico study

Muhammad Farid — 2025-12-09

Lung cancer has a high mortality rate, especially in Indonesia. The use of conventional drugs often causes side effects, so alternatives are needed. Rambutan peel, rich in flavonoids and phenols, has potential as an anticancer agent. This research aims to evaluate the potential of rambutan peel as an anti-lung cancer agent using an in-silico approach. The study was conducted using pharmacokinetic predictions from SwissADME to ensure the suitability of oral drug parameters. Network pharmacology analysis to map interactions between active compounds in rambutan peel and proteins associated with lung cancer. Molecular docking was carried out to determine the interaction of the test ligand with the target protein using Autodock, with the binding visualisation results analysed using Biovia software. The results of this study show that of the 11 compounds, five are active compounds that comply with the Lipinski rules. Out of the five compounds studied, 84 protein targets were found, with SRC and EGFR showing the most interactions. From these, 21 proteins were linked to the KEGG pathway related to lung cancer, and based on GO and KEGG analysis, the main pathway identified was EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance. The apigenin compound has the highest potential as an anti-lung cancer agent through EGFR inhibition with a binding energy value of -6.65 kcal/mol. The dominant interacting amino acids across all ligands are ASP323, SER324, and ASN331 for hydrogen bonds, and ARG42 and LEU325 for non-hydrogen interactions. This research concludes these findings suggest a potential inhibitory effect, warranting further experimental validation.

Quantitative analysis of phytoconstituents and in-vitro biological activities of nine edible microgreens from West Bengal

Amitesh Chakraborty — 2025-12-09

Microgreens are promising sources of nutrition in the daily diet, which have gained attention for their rich phytochemical profile and associated health benefits. The current research aims to quantify the total phytoconstituent content and determine the in vitro anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities of nine different microgreens: chia, coriander, carrot, fenugreek, radish, spinach, sunflower, turnip, and beetroot. The quantification of phytoconstituents in cultivated microgreens, followed by in vitro biological activity profiling, was conducted. Significant differences in total phenolic, tannin, flavonoid and pigment content among the samples (P <0.001) were found. Sunflower microgreen proved to be the most potent anti-oxidant agent (IC₅₀ = 48.19 μg/mL). Chia microgreens recorded the highest chlorophyll content at 21.27 μg/g FW. Fenugreek microgreens demonstrated potent α-amylase inhibitory activity with an IC₅₀ of 11.01 μg/mL. Chia and coriander microgreens were promising anti-inflammatory agents with IC₅₀ values of 23.09 and 28.40 μg/mL. Principal Component Analysis elaborates the correlation between morphological characters, phytoconstituent content and pharmacological activities of the microgreens. The findings suggest that these microgreens contain health-promoting phytochemicals and may serve as functional foods for managing oxidative stress, inflammation, and hyperglycemia. Further, microgreens can be examined for their in vivo biological activities, followed by their recommendation for daily dietary intake.

Irvingia gabonensis seed extracts protect against lead-induced testicular damage in Wistar rats

Oyedayo Phillips Akano — 2025-12-09

Lead acetate exposure is known to cause testicular injury, adversely affecting sperm parameters and histological integrity. This study sought to assess the preventive effects of the ethanol extract of Irvingia gabonensis seed (EEIG) and its ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) against lead acetate-induced testicular damage in male Wistar rats. Forty-five male Wistar rats (8–10 weeks old, weighing 150–170 g) were randomly allocated into nine groups (n = 5 each). Group I (control) was administered distilled water for a duration of 56 days. Group II was exposed to lead acetate (60 mg/kg) for 28 days only. Groups III–V received lead acetate for the first 28 days, followed by EEIG at 125, 250, or 500 mg/kg BW for the next 28 days. Groups VI–VIII were similarly pretreated with lead acetate and then administered EAF at 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg BW for the subsequent 28 days. Group IX received lead acetate for 28 days, followed by distilled water for the remainder of the period. Sperm parameters, namely, count, motility, live-dead ratio, and abnormal sperm morphology, were assessed. Testicular and epididymal tissues were analysed histologically. Data were analysed utilizing one-way ANOVA with significance eastablished at p <0.05. Lead acetate exposure significantly reduced sperm motility and increased abnormal sperm morphology compared to the control group (p <0.05). Treatment with EEIG and EAF improved sperm parameters, with EAF showing superior effects in restoring sperm motility, reducing abnormal sperm cells, and improving histological integrity compared to the lead-only group. This study suggests that the ethanol extract of I. gabonensis seeds and its ethyl acetate fraction mitigate lead acetate-induced testicular toxicity, highlighting their potential as therapeutic agents against testicular damage.

Optimised extraction conditions for maximising saponin yield and antioxidant properties of Hedera helix L.

Van Tang Nguyen — 2025-12-09

Hedera helix L. (H. helix) has been known as a potential medicinal plant in folk medicine for the treatment of different chronic diseases. Recently, several phytochemical compounds were extracted from the H. helix, especially the saponin group. This research aimed to optimise extraction conditions to obtain the highest saponin yield from the H. helix. Total saponin content (TSC), saponin extraction efficiency (SEE), total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), DPPH/ABTS radical scavenging capacity (DRSC/ARSC) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) in the extract were determined. The results show that the highest TSC (52.57 mg escin equivalents (EE)/g dry weight (DW) and SEE (72.21%) was achieved from the H. helix. using conventional extraction (CE) with 80% methanol (v/v), 1:100 (w/v) sample to solvent ratio, 50°C extraction temperature, and 30 min extraction time. In this condition, TPC and TFC (4.35 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g DW and 0.22 mg catechin equivalents (CE)/g DW, respectively) and DRSC, ARSC and FRAP (6.41, 15.35, and 8.26 mg trolox equivalents (TE)/g DW, respectively) were also identified. This study suggests the optimised extraction conditions to achieve the maximum TSC from the H. helix, which offers many benefits for functional food manufacturers.

Morpho-anatomical, physicochemical and antibacterial evaluation of the underexplored aerial part of the plant Gonostegia hirta (Hassk.) Miq. of different ecotones

Sreya Dutta — 2025-12-09

Edible plants from natural sources are receiving wide attention as a rich source of bioactive chemicals and an easily accessible resource that may contribute to the treatment of various diseases. Gonostegia hirta is an edible plant with folk claims used for wound healing, digestive aids and anti-inflammatory effects. In the present study, aerial parts of G. hirta, i.e. leaves and stem, were collected from three different geographical regions of India- Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The morphological and anatomical characterisation of the plant was carried out by macroscopy, microscopy and powder drug analysis. The aerial parts were washed, pressed, shade-dried and pulverised, followed by preparation of the methanolic extract. The antibacterial activity of the methanolic extract was evaluated on five bacterial strains- Enterocococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive cocci), Salmonella sp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative bacilli) by micro-broth dilution assay. The size and shape, colour, surface, odour and taste, along with plant anatomy, including powder characters of plants collected from three different regions of India, were comparable with slight variations. Methanolic extracts of all regions showed antibacterial activity on a broad antibacterial spectrum, with a better effect on Gram-positive strains. Comparatively, this study validates the local practices of G. hirta preparation, suggesting that methanolic extracts could be effective for treating certain bacterial strains of clinical importance, in addition to being the first ever report of comparative geographical variations with respect to antibacterial activity.

Isolation of pigmented marine bacteria and evaluation of their antibacterial and antioxidant activities against multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens

V. Ramabhai — 2025-12-09

The present study focused on isolating pigmented marine bacteria and evaluating their antibacterial and antioxidant activities. A total of 12 bacterial strains were isolated from marine sediment samples, among which only PB4, PB5, PB9, PB10, and PB11 produced pigments. Primary antibacterial screening revealed that PB5 and PB10 exhibited antagonistic activity against multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. In secondary screening, the cell-free supernatant of PB5 exhibited the highest inhibition zone (18 mm) against all tested pathogens at a concentration of 100 µL. Consequently, PB5 was selected for further morphological, biochemical, and molecular characterisation. Gram staining and biochemical tests identified the strain as belonging to the genus Bacillus, and 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed it as Bacillus gibsonii (GenBank accession no. OQ608089). Pigment extraction using organic solvents such as methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate and petroleum ether of varying polarity revealed methanol as the most effective, yielding an orange pigment with the highest antibacterial activity. Methanolic crude pigment showed maximum inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus (24±1.53 mm) and Escherichia coli (22±0.58 mm) at 100 µL. Antioxidant analysis by DPPH assay demonstrated significant radical scavenging activity (229.46±0.3%) with an IC₅₀ value of 45.6 µg/mL. These findings suggest that the orange pigment from Bacillus gibsonii possesses strong antibacterial potential against multidrug-resistant pathogens and notable antioxidant properties.