Browsing by Author "Mechergui, Sarra"
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- Myrtus communis L.: an unconventional wild berry as a source of bioactive compoundsPublication . Mechergui, Sarra; Barros, Lillian; Albuquerrque, Bianca; Vieira, Sara; Cheickh, DorsafMyrtus communis L., commonly known as myrtle, is a plant found in Mediterranean regions, traditionally used to treat various ailments such as respiratory infections and gastrointestinal disorders due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Studies in literature report the chemical composition of its leaves and berries, identifying bioactive compounds responsible for its therapeutic properties. However, few studies have investigated optimized extraction methods to obtain specific bioactive compounds from its berries. In this context, the present study aimed to develop and evaluate extraction methodologies to maximize the yield of bioactive compounds, particularly phenolic compounds, from M. communis berries, highlighting their potential as antioxidant and antimicrobial agents. To this end, two extraction methodologies were tested: heat-assisted extraction (HAE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), evaluating the extraction yield, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize extraction parameters, such as time, temperature, and ethanol concentration. The optimized extract was assessed for its antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity, and its phenolic profile was determined by HPLC-LC/MS. As a result, HAE demonstrated superior efficacy in preserving phenolic integrity and antioxidant capacity. The optimal extraction conditions were determined to be 90 minutes at 100°C with 39% ethanol, resulting in a yield of 47.2 ± 0.2%, with the extract containing 50 ± 8 mg GAE/g and capable of scavenging 50% of the DPPH radical at a concentration of 0.041 ± 0.003 mg/mL. The optimized extract also showed the ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation through the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay, with an EC50 value of 0.045 ± 0.006 mg/mL, and was effective in inhibiting the growth of 16 bacteria, including 8 clinical strains and 8 strains associated with food contamination. In its phenolic composition, four myricetin derivatives and one quercetin derivative were identified, with the most abundant compound being myricetin-O-hexoside (3.60 ± 0.04 mg/g extract). In conclusion, M. communis berries offer potential applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, providing a sustainable option and an eco-friendly substitute for artificial compounds.