Biochanin A

Jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus) tubers contain isoflavones and phenolic acids with potential chemopreventive and anti-inflammatory effects. This study analyzed bioactive and toxic compounds in fresh jicama tuber (flesh and peel) and assessed changes during freezing for 3 and 4 months. Antioxidant, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated on human thyroid cancer (FTC133, 8505 C, TPC1), and normal cells (Nthy-ori 3 - 1), and RAW 264.7 macrophages.

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) identified active compounds. Antioxidant activity was tested using FRAP and DPPH assays. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay, while anti-inflammatory effects were measured via TNF-α, IL-6 (ELISA), and nitric oxide levels (Griess assay).

Fresh peel contained the highest levels of isoflavones (mg/100 g dry weight) - biochanin A; 52.5, daidzein; 23.0, genistein; 2.6) and phenolic acids (chlorogenic; 61.7, isochlorogenic acids; 95.8), which declined significantly after freezing. No rotenone was detected. Peel extracts exhibited the strongest cytotoxicity against thyroid cancer cells, particularly FTC133, showing dose-dependent inhibition of cell viability. However, they also exhibited cytotoxicity against normal thyroid cells, highlighting potential risks. Flesh extracts showed weaker cytotoxic effects but demonstrated slightly stronger anti-inflammatory activity than peel extracts. Both extracts effectively reduced TNF-α, IL-6, and nitric oxide levels in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Storage time during freezing had no significant impact on anti-inflammatory activity or cytotoxic potency, but it significantly reduced antioxidant activity.

Jicama peel is richer in bioactive compounds than the flesh and exhibits strong cytotoxic effects on thyroid cancer cells, although it also affects normal cells. Freezing reduces phytonutrient content and antioxidant potential but does not alter anti-inflammatory efficacy.

Oroxylum indicum (L.) Kurz root has been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. This study aimed to elucidate the phosphodiesterase (PDE) 5 inhibition and vasodilatory effects of O. indicum root extract and its main constituent. LC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis identified twenty constituents within the extract, including baicalein, biochanin A, and chrysin, detected in both positive and negative modes. HPLC analysis confirmed baicalein as the major constituent of O. indicum root extract. The extract exhibited potential for PDE5 inhibition, with an IC₅₀ value of 1.96 μg/mL. Among the three compounds, biochanin A demonstrated the highest PDE5 inhibition, with an IC₅₀ value of 6.16 μM, followed by baicalein (IC₅₀ = 20.54 μM) and chrysin (IC₅₀ = 42.18 μM). The vascular effects and mechanisms of O. indicum extract (0.01-300 μg/mL) and compounds (10^-11-10^-6 M) were evaluated in rat-isolated pulmonary artery (PA) and aorta. Both O. indicum extract and baicalein exhibited potent vasodilatory effects, with greater efficacy in the PA compared to the aorta. E_max values for PA versus aorta were 84.8 % versus 24.8 % (p < 0.001) for O. indicum extract and 85.3 % versus 31.9 % (p < 0.001) for baicalein. O. indicum-induced PA relaxation was endothelium-dependent, involving eNOS activation, COX pathways, and EDHF production. Conversely, baicalein-induced PA relaxation was endothelium-independent, mediated by inhibition of K_v channels, intracellular calcium release, and blockade of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. Taken together, these findings expand the biological profile of O. indicum root and highlight baicalein as a promising candidate for cardiovascular disease treatment.