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Antioxidant Properties of Ferulic Acid and Its Possible Application

September 2018
Skin Pharmacology and Physiology 31(6):332-336

DOI:10.1159/000491755

Authors:

Dana Agnieszka

Medical University of Łódź

Anna Kołodziejczak

Medical University of Łódź

Ferulic acid has low toxicity and possesses many physiological functions (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial activity, anticancer, and antidiabetic effect). It has been widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics industry. Ferulic acid is a free radical scavenger, but also an inhibitor of enzymes that catalyze free radical generation and an enhancer of scavenger enzyme activity. Ferulic acid has a protective role for the main skin structures: keratinocytes, fibroblasts, collagen, elastin. It inhibits melanogenesis, enhances angiogenesis, and accelerates wound healing. It is widely applied in skin care formulations as a photoprotective agent, delayer of skin photoaging processes, and brightening component. Nonetheless, its use is limited by its tendency to be rapidly oxidized.

Average ferulic acid content in plant-delivered foods Foods Ferulic acid content, mg\kg (in liquid mg/dm 3 )

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Review Article

Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2018;31:332–336

Antioxidant Properties of Ferulic Acid

and Its Possible Application

Kamila Zduńska Agnieszka Dana Anna Kolodziejczak Helena Rotsztejn

Chair of Cosmetology, Department of Cosmetology and Aesthetic Dermatology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical

University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland

Received: February 22, 2018

Accepted after revision: July 2, 2018

Published online: September 20, 2018

Kamila Zduńska

Department of Cosmetology and Aesthetic Dermatology, Faculty of Pharmacy

Medical University of Łódź, Muszyńskiego 1 Street

PL–91-151 Łódź (Poland)

E-Mail kamila.zdunska @ stud.umed.lodz.pl

E-Mail karger@karger.com

www.karger.com/spp

DOI: 10.1159/000491755

Keywords

Ferulic acid antioxidant · Photoaging

Abstract

Ferulic acid has low toxicity and possesses many physiologi-

cal functions (anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial

activity, anticancer, and antidiabetic effect). It has been

widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics in-

dustry. Ferulic acid is a free radical scavenger, but also an

inhibitor of enzymes that catalyze free radical generation

and an enhancer of scavenger enzyme activity. Ferulic acid

has a protective role for the main skin structures: keratino-

cytes, fibroblasts, collagen, elastin. It inhibits melanogenesis,

enhances angiogenesis, and accelerates wound healing. It is

widely applied in skin care formulations as a photoprotec-

tive agent, delayer of skin photoaging processes, and bright-

ening component. Nonetheless, its use is limited by its ten-

Introduction

Properties of Ferulic Acid

Ferulic acid ([E]-3-[4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-phenyl]

prop-2-enoic acid) (Fig.1) belongs to the phenolic acid

group commonly found in plant tissues [1]. Phenolic ac-

ids are secondary metabolites of varying chemical struc-

tures and biological properties. The plants are mainly

found in bound form as ester or glycosides, lignin com-

ponents, and hydrolysis tannins [2, 3]. In terms of chem-

ical structure, they can be divided into derivatives of cin-

namic and benzoic acid, varying in number and substitu-

tion of hydroxyl and methoxy groups, and phenolic acids

of unusual character. An additional group is the depside,

which is a combination of two or more phenolic acids [2].

Ferulic acid, like caffeic, p-coumaric, synapine, syryte,

and vanillin acids, is the most common cinnamic acid de-

rivative [3].

Ferulic acid is most commonly found in whole grains,

spinach, parsley, grapes, rhubarb, and cereal seeds, main-

ly wheat, oats, rye, and barley (Table 1). One of the most

important role of phenolic acids, especially cinnamic acid

derivatives, is their antioxidant activity, which depends

primarily on the number of hydroxyl and methoxy groups

attached to the phenyl ring [3, 4]. Ferulic acid is more eas-

ily absorbed into the body and stays in the blood longer

than any other phenolic acids. Ferulic acid is considered

to be a superior antioxidant [5]. Ferulic acid has low tox-

icity and possesses many physiological functions, includ-

ing anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer (for

instance lung, breast, colon and skin cancer), anti-ar-

rhythmic, and antithrombotic activity, and it also dem-

onstrated antidiabetic effects and immunostimulant

properties, and it reduces nerve cell damage and may help

Ferulic Acid Properties and Application

333

Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2018;31:332–336

DOI: 10.1159/000491755

to repair damaged cells. Furthermore, it is a sports sup-

plement because it can neutralize free radicals in muscle

tissue (alleviate muscle fatigue). It has been widely used

in pharmaceutics and food. Moreover, it is widely applied

in skin care formulations as a photoprotective agent (sun-

screens), delayer of skin photoaging processes, and

brightening component. Nonetheless, its use is limited by

its tendency to be rapidly oxidized [3, 5–7].

Antioxidative Activity of Ferulic Acid

The antioxidant action mechanism of ferulic acid is

complex, mainly based on the inhibition of the formation

of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or nitrogen, but also the

neutralization (“sweeping”) of free radicals. In addition,

this acid is responsible for chelating protonated metal

ions, such as Cu(II) or Fe(II) [8, 9]. Ferulic acid is not only

a free radical scavenger, but also an inhibitor of enzymes

that catalyze free radical generation and an enhancer of

scavenger enzyme activity. It is directly related to its

chemical structure [3, 10–12]. Its antioxidating proper-

ties are primarily related to scavenging of free radicals,

binding transition metals such as iron and copper, and

lipid peroxidation prevention. The mechanism of anti-

oxidative activity of ferulic acid is the ability to form sta-

ble phenoxyl radicals, by the reaction of the radical mol-

ecule with the molecule of antioxidant. This makes it dif-

ficult to initiate a complex reaction cascade leading to the

generation of free radicals. This compound may also act

as hydrogen donor, giving atoms directly to the radicals.

This is particularly important for the protection of cell

membrane lipid acids, from undesired autoxidation pro-

cesses. As a secondary antioxidant, ferulic acids and their

related compounds are able to bind transition metals

such as iron and copper [13]. This prevents the formation

of toxic hydroxyl radicals, which lead to cell membrane

peroxidation [14].

Free radicals may also be formed through natural hu-

man physiological processes, such as cell respiration pro-

cess. These reactions are catalyzed by some enzymes,

among others xanthine oxidase and cyclooxygenase-2

[15]. It is suggested that inhibition of this enzyme could

prevent the changes caused by oxidative stress, including

photophobia [16]. Literature data report high efficacy of

ferulic acid and its derivatives in reducing xanthine oxi-

dase and cyclooxygenase activity. It is therefore believed

that ferulic acid reduces the amount of ROS produced by

the enzyme-catalyzed transformation [17].

Ferulic Acid as an Antioxidant against Negative UV

Influence

Highly exposed to UV-induced oxidative stress are ke-

ratinocytes and fibroblasts. ROS damage cells by the pro-

cess of lipid peroxidation, amino acid nitration, and even

DNA alterations, leading to cell death. Ferulic acid exhib-

its protective antioxidant properties, relative to various

skin structures and skin cells. Pluemsamran and partners

[18] proved that human endothelial cells and keratino-

cytes are much less susceptible to UVA-induced free rad-

ical damage when exposed to ferulic acid prior to irradia-

tion. It is believed that fibroblasts are exposed to UVA,

and the oxidative stress associated with it is greater than

that of the more superficially exposed keratinocytes. The

human fibroblast test showed that ferulic acid, adminis-

tered prior to exposure to UVA radiation, significantly re-

duced its adverse effects. It prevents UV-induced cell cycle

alterations and DNA damage and regulates the expression

of DNA repair genes. Hahn and partners [19] have shown

that intracellular ROS production is nearly 2-fold lower in

fibroblasts, which after irradiation with UVA, have ferulic

acid applied. Similar effects, in the form of protection

against free radical damage, have been observed in UVB-

exposed fibroblasts. In their research, Ambothi and Naga-

rajan [20] demonstrated the protective role of ferulic acid

applied to cells 30 min prior to exposure to UVB. Com-

pared to non-antioxidant-exposed cells, cytotoxicity, lipid

3CO

Fig. 1. Chemical structure of ferulic acid.

Table 1. Average ferulic acid content in plant-delivered foods

Foods Ferulic acid content, mg\kg

(in liquid mg/dm3)

Black currant 15

Black berry 10

Spinach 110

Tomatoes 700

Cucurbit 220

Wheat flour 150

Wheat bran 700

Oatmeal 145

Zduńska/Dana/Kolodziejczak/Rotsztejn

Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2018;31:332–336

334

DOI: 10.1159/000491755

peroxidation, DNA alteration, antioxidant enzyme de-

cline, and reduced ROS production have been observed.

As UVB-induced ROS are one of the factors contributing

significantly to the development of skin cancer, ferulic

acid, which is known to lower their levels, has been found

to be a promising anticancer substance [20]. In another

study on human fibroblasts, ferulic acid proved to be an

effective substance that protects heat shock proteins from

degradation caused by hydrogen peroxide. As a result, the

cell-treated assay, prior to UV irradiation, showed signif-

icantly greater cell survival and less ROS-induced damage.

It has been proven to be closely related to significantly in-

creased levels of protective heat shock proteins compared

to the ferulic acid trial [21].

The activation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 under the influ-

ence of UVB radiation leads to photosaturation and ini-

tiation of photocancerogenesis processes [22]. Staniforth

et al. [23] have proven that these processes are effectively

prevented by the application of ferulic acid, just after ex-

posure to UVB radiation. Studies conducted on mice

showed a decrease in MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity by 37

and 83%, respectively, compared to the non-antioxidant-

exposed group [23]. Ferulic acid administered before ir-

radiation causes reduced cytotoxicity, less stimulation of

MMP-1 matrix metalloproteinases, and the generation of

ROS, compared to those exposed without antioxidant.

Also, the level of endogenous antioxidants, glutathione

and catalase, declined less and restored faster in the probe

with ferulic acid. The antioxidant tested proved to be ef-

fective not only for its free radical scavenging capacity but

also for its protective effect on the intracellular antioxi-

dant system [18]. Bian and partners [24] have demon-

strated a high efficacy of ferulic acid in the prevention of

H2O2-induced damage in human embryonic kidney cells.

Ferulic acid application, before exposure to H2O2, in-

creased cell survival and antioxidant enzyme levels (cata-

lase, superoxide dismutase). It has been stated that natu-

ral antioxidants such as ferulic acid can prevent adverse

changes in the body resulting from oxidative stress, in-

cluding collagen degradation [24].

Kawaguchi et al. [25] in their study on human fibro-

blasts showed that the main cause of elastosis (accumula-

tion of tropoelastin aggregates in skin reticular layer) are

free oxygen radicals. In the cells exposed to ROS, a sig-

nificant increase in tropoelastin mRNA expression was

observed. This process was reduced when the fibroblasts

were treated with catalase referred to as free radical scav-

engers. On this basis, the authors suggest that the use of

antioxidants such as ferulic acid could prevent the unfa-

vorable elastosis phenomenon [25, 26].

Angiogenesis Effect

In light of current knowledge, ferulic acid is believed

to have an angiogenesis effect by affecting the activity of

the main factors involved in it, i.e., vascular endothelial

growth factor (VEGF), platelet derived growth factor

(PDGF), and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1). Lin and

partners [27] in their research conducted using human

umbilical vein endothelial cells have shown that ferulic

acid enhances VEGF and PDGF expression and increases

the amount of hypoxia induced HIF-1, which generates

hypoxia-responsive responses. The authors believe that

ferulic acid is an effective substance that promotes the

formation of new vessels, as evidenced in both in vivo and

in vitro studies [27, 28].

Regeneration and Wound Healing Effect

The experiment conducted with the use of diabetic rats

demonstrated that ferulic acid accelerates the regenera-

tion and healing of wounds. The wound contraction per-

centage in rats to whom ferulic acid ointment was given

was 27% after 4 days, while in the group which did not

receive it, only 14% was administered after 4 days. After

16 days, rats treated with ferulic acid were almost com-

pletely healed (96%). In a control group that used an oint-

ment with 1% soframycin, standardized for treatment of

difficult-to-heal wounds, the wound was healed in 83%

after 16 days. There was also a faster onset of granulomas

in the ferulic acid group and faster epithelialization com-

pared to the control group [29]. Ghaisas and partners

[30], in a similar study, in addition to faster shrinking of

the wound and increased epithelialization, observed an

increased hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine synthesis

(major amino acids involved in wound healing, which are

the precursors of collagen), in the skin of diabetic rats to

whom ferulic acid was given. Moreover, it has been shown

that the use of ferulic acid ointment during healing inhib-

its lipid peroxidation and increases catalase, superoxide

dismutase, and glutathione. The authors suggest that this

phenomenon also significantly accelerates shrinkage of

the wound [30].

The Use of Ferulic Acid in Cosmetology and Aesthetic

Dermatology

Prevention of skin aging processes is one of the main

issues in contemporary cosmetology and aesthetic medi-

cine. Protection against the effects of external factors such

as UV radiation, air pollution, and free radical scavenging

plays an important role. The compounds with proven an-

tioxidative efficacy include ferulic acid. Initially, it was

used in cosmetics as a stabilizer of other commonly known

Ferulic Acid Properties and Application

335

Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2018;31:332–336

DOI: 10.1159/000491755

antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E. Research

shows, though, that this compound is not only used as an

additional compound, but also an active ingredient with

antioxidative properties, which supports intracellular an-

tioxidant defense systems. Thanks to this, ferulic acid has

a protective role for the main skin structures (keratino-

cytes, fibroblasts, collagen, elastin), which is used in anti-

aging cosmetic formulations. Due to its ability to inhibit

the main enzyme of melanogenesis (tyrosinase), it is also

used in anti-blemish cosmetic formulations.

Ferulic acid is used in skin-lightening preparations be-

cause it inhibits tyrosinase activity (an enzyme involved

in melanogenesis) and inhibits melanocytic proliferation

[31, 32]. Staniforth et al. [23] noted that ferulic acid ab-

sorbs UV (290–320 nm). In order to increase the lighten-

ing effect, ferulic acid can be combined with other com-

pounds that also have a brightening effect, but by other

processes such as niacinamide (inhibits the movement of

melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes). Saint-

Leger et al. [33] reported better effects of ferulic acid after

adding to it a keratolytic agent such as lipohydroxycar-

bones.

Ferulic acid is widely applied in skin care formulations

as a delayer of skin photoaging processes and photopro-

tective agent. Its application as a topical antioxidant has

become an important administration route due to main-

taining a high local concentration and the low cutaneous

metabolism [3]. Moreover, local ferulic acid penetrates

deeply into the skin, both acidic and neutral pH, in dis-

sociated and non-dissociated form [34]. Saija et al. [35]

studied the penetration of ferulic and caffeic acid soluble

in saturated aqueous solutions (pH 3 and pH 7.2) by a hu-

man skin cut in the Franz cells. It turned out that these

acids, regardless of pH, penetrated the stratum corneum.

It was noted that ferulic acid has a slightly better penetra-

tion capacity, which was explained by the known higher

lipophilicity of this acid. Research on phenolic antioxi-

dants has shown that ferulic acid improves the chemical

stability of L-ascorbic acid and α-tocopherol prepara-

tions, thereby increasing its photoprotection properties.

Ferulic acid is used in the production of face masks, as

well as antioxidant, protective, and moisturizing creams/

lotions. The recommended acid concentration in cosmet-

ic products of this type is from 0.5 to 1%. Ferulic acid is

also used in medical cosmetology and aesthetics salons. It

is most often used at a concentration of 12% and in com-

bination with vitamins C and hyaluronic acid. Ferulic

acid is used in the following procedures: microneedling

and non-needle mesotherapy, chemical peels, and groom-

ing treatments. Indications for the use of ferulic acid in-

clude skin aging and photoaging, hyperpigmentation

(melasma), seborrheic skin, and acne.

Conclusion

Research conducted so far has shown that ferulic acid

has strong antioxidant properties, which is directly in-

volved with its protective role to cellular structures and

inhibition of melanogenesis. It is increasingly used in cos-

metic preparations, mainly to inhibit photostage. At the

same time, it helps to reduce fine wrinkles and existing

discoloration. Good penetration into the skin, compati-

bility with many cosmetic formulas, and stabilizing prop-

erties of other ingredients make ferulic acid an increas-

ingly used compound in cosmetology.

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by statutory research activity of the

Department of Cosmetology and Aesthetic Dermatology, Faculty

of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lodz, No. 503/3-066-01/503-

31-001.

Disclosure Statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent skin ailment in Asia, and the currently available clinical interventions provide only limited respite while potentially leading to undesired or severe side effects. This investigation explores ferulic acid's potential as an innovative and efficacious remedy for AD. Ferulic acid, recognized for its diverse pharmacological and biological attributes, underwent evaluation through both cellular and in vivo studies. The outcomes revealed that ferulic acid adeptly mitigated the inflammatory retort associated with AD by quelling the activation of the TRPV1 and HMGB1 signaling pathways—both tied to the Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel, Subfamily V, Member 1 (TRPV1) and High Mobility Group Protein 1 (HMGB1). In a BALB/c mouse model, ferulic acid demonstrated significant amelioration of AD symptoms prompted by DNCB, including the reduction of skin barrier impairment, diminished ear and skin epidermal thickness, curbed mast cell infiltration, and decreased spleen and lymph node dimensions. These findings underscore the potential of ferulic acid as a viable treatment avenue for AD. The multifaceted attributes of ferulic acid, its confirmed pharmacological and biological merits, and its demonstrated effectiveness in assuaging AD's inflammatory responses, as validated by cellular and in vivo investigations, collectively propose its significant promise as a compelling substitute in the therapeutic landscape for AD. Running head: Ferulic acid inhibits inflammation in AD

Production of Sugar from Cassava Peel using Different Chemical Pre-treatment

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Cassava peel has been a notable agricultural waste material to researchers because of its potential to produce sugar, a valuable product in the food, agricultural, and cosmetic industries. The peels constitute lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose, also known as lignocellulosic biomass. Cassava peels must undergo a pre-treatment method to separate the lignocellulosic material effectively. This study aims to investigate the optimal chemical pre-treatment methods and optimal pre-treatment concentration to produce sugar from cassava peel. Cassava peels were pre-treated with sodium hydroxide, sulphuric acid, and methanol with a catalyst (organosolv). Then, enzymatic hydrolysis was performed using cellulase to hydrolyze cellulose to glucose. The glucose yield is quantified using Dinitrosalicylic Acid Assay and a portable blood glucometer. The results showed that pre-treatment using sodium hydroxide at a concentration of 0.05 M at 121°C for 15 minutes gave the highest glucose yield of 4.53±1.20 mg/ml. Glucose produced from 0.05 M sulphuric acid (H2SO4) and 0.2 M organosolv sodium methoxide (MeOH+NaOAc) were 3.55±0.68 mg/ml and 3.29±0.93 mg/ml, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that the effect of different pre-treatment methods and pre-treatment concentrations had a significant glucose yield (P<0.05). Similarly, there was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the glucose yield under different pre-treatment concentrations. Further study on mechanical-assisted chemical pre-treatment methods is recommended.

LC-MS/MS and GC-MS Identification of Metabolites from the Selected Herbs and Spices, Their Antioxidant, Anti-Diabetic Potential, and Chemometric Analysis

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Full-text available

Sep 2023

Culinary herbs and spices are widely used in daily diets. Pakistan’s flora is enriched with phytochemicals due to a diverse range of land. Phytochemicals, including volatile and non-volatile compounds, have captured much interest due to their numerous health advantages and significance in daily diet. The present study aimed to conduct in-depth metabolomic profiling of Pakistani-grown fenugreek leaves (Trigonella foenum-graecum), fennel seeds (Foeniculum vulgare), mint leaves (Mentha royleana), coriander seeds (Coriandrum sativum) and basil leaves (Ocimum basilicum) by using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The first study was conducted to optimize extraction using different solvents (methanol, ethanol, chloroform, acetone, and water). Total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and total condensed tannins (TCT) were quantified along with the antioxidant and anti-diabetic activities. The highest TPC (125.42 ± 10.89 mg GAE/g) and the highest antioxidant and anti-diabetic potential were quantified in mint. Seventy-one phytochemical metabolites were identified using LC-MS/MS, while forty-nine volatile constituents were identified using GC-MS. A positive correlation was identified between phenolic contents and their biological activities. Furthermore, molecular docking helped to find drug molecules with more excellent anti-diabetic activity based on their binding affinities. This study suggests that selected herbs and spices from Pakistan have significant nutraceutical and phytopharmaceutical potential. This study could further help in drug discovery.

Diet–gut microbiome interaction and ferulic acid bioavailability: implications on neurodegenerative disorders

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2023
EUR J NUTR

Purpose of the review Ferulic acid (FA), which occurs naturally as the feruloylated sugar ester in grains, fruits, and vegetables, is critical for combating oxidative stress and alleviating neurodegenerative diseases resulting from free radical-generated protein aggregates in brain cells. However, FA cannot be absorbed in conjugated form. Therefore, strategies to improve the bioavailability of FA are gaining more importance. Ferulic acid esterases (FAE) of the gut microbiota are critical enzymes that facilitate FA release from feruloylated sugar ester conjugates and influence systemic health. This review provides insight into a nutrition-based approach to preventing neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by altering the diversity of FAE-producing gut microbiota. Recent findings The human gut is a niche for a highly dense microbial population. Nutrient components and the quality of food shape the gut microbiota. Microbiota–diet–host interaction primarily involves an array of enzymes that hydrolyse complex polysaccharides and release covalently attached moieties, thereby increasing their bio-accessibility. Moreover, genes encoding polysaccharide degrading enzymes are substrate inducible, giving selective microorganisms a competitive advantage in scavenging nutrients. Summary Nutraceutical therapy using specific food components holds promise as a prophylactic agent and as an adjunctive treatment strategy in neurotherapeutics, as it results in upregulation of polysaccharide utilisation loci containing fae genes in the gut microbiota, thereby increasing the release of FA and other antioxidant molecules and combat neurodegenerative processes.

Polyphenols-loaded beeswax-based lipid nanoconstructs for diabetic foot ulcer: Optimization, characterization, in vitro and ex vivo evaluation

Article

Sep 2023
J DRUG DELIV SCI TEC

Protective effect of ethyl ferulate against hypoxic injury in retinal cells and retinal neovascularization in an oxygen-induced retinopathy model

Article

Sep 2023
PHYTOMEDICINE

Agrimonia eupatoria L. and wound healing

Article

Sep 2023

The potential use of Indian rice flour or husk in fortification of pan bread: assessing bread’s quality using sensory, physicochemical, and chemometric methods

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2023

Hassawi rice is an Indica variety cultivated in Saudi Arabia with a higher nutritional value than the commercial Basmati rice varieties. The present study has investigated the feasibility of combining Hassawi rice flour (HRF) or husk (HRHF), an abundant byproduct, with wheat flour to produce nutritious economical pan bread. To achieve this aim, the physicochemical properties of HRF and HRHF were assessed using techniques such as UPLC-tandem MS, ICP-OES, and colorimeter. The proximate composition (moisture, crude fiber, and ash) and mineral contents of HRHF are significantly (p < 0.05) higher than HRF. On the other hand, the compounds p-coumaric acid, vanillic acid, γ- and δ-tocotrienols, and γ-oryzanol were unique to HRF. We further determined the changes in sensory, technological, and physicochemical properties of wheat flour bread substituted with 5%, 10%, and 15% of HRF or HRHF. The rheological tests showed that the addition of HRF and HRHF increased dough development and stability time. Further, substituting wheat flour for HRF and HRHF at levels higher than 10% affected sensory attributes, such as color, taste, odor, flavor, and appearance. These changes, however, were not always at a significant level. The causes of the differences in properties between control and fortified bread samples were investigated by chemometric methods. Samples of bread +HRF at 5 and 10% had comparable overall profiles to the control. On the other hand, bread +HRHF samples proved to retain higher concentrations of bioactive molecules compared to the control bread. Our findings shed light on the possible use of rice husk fibers in baking goods, notably pan bread. Furthermore, by integrating rice husk fibers into baked goods, we may boost their health

Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy of phenolic antioxidants: A systematic evaluation of ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid and sinapic acid

Article

Full-text available

Feb 2017
VIB SPECTROSC

Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) is a powerful surface-sensitive technique to study the vibrational properties of analytes at very low levels of concentration. In particular, detection of bioactive molecules, specifically antioxidants, is an area of interest to gain insights into the reproducible and quantitative SERS-determination. In this study, SERS measurements were systematically evaluated for ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid and sinapic acid. The study objective in this research was to: 1) prepare and characterize SERS-active silver colloids; 2) cluster the as-obtained colloids through Principal Component Analysis on the basis of concentration and nanoparticle size; and 3) develop a highly sensitive SERS-based method for phenolic antioxidant detection. The reliability of the proposed method was demonstrated through detection of the phenolic antioxidants evaluated at low levels of concentration. In particular, sinapic acid was evaluated for the first time, with a limit of detection of 2.5 × 10⁻⁹ M.

Pretreatment of Ferulic Acid Protects Human Dermal Fibroblasts against Ultraviolet A Irradiation

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2016

Background Approximately 90%~99% of ultraviolet A (UVA) ray reaches the Earth's surface. The deeply penetrating UVA rays induce the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which results in oxidative stress such as photoproducts, senescence, and cell death. Thus, UVA is considered a primary factor that promotes skin aging. Objective Researchers investigated whether pretreatment with ferulic acid protects human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) against UVA-induced cell damages. Methods HDF proliferation was analyzed using the water-soluble tetrazolium salt assay. Cell cycle distribution and intracellular ROS levels were assessed by flow cytometric analysis. Senescence was evaluated using a senescence-associated β-galactosidase assay, while Gadd45α promoter activity was analyzed through a luciferase assay. The expression levels of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), catalase (CAT), xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group A and C, matrix metalloproteinase 1 and 3, as well as p21 and p16 were measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results Inhibition of proliferation and cell cycle arrest were detected in cells that were irradiated with UVA only. Pretreatment with ferulic acid significantly increased the proliferation and cell cycle progression in HDFs. Moreover, ferulic acid pretreatment produced antioxidant effects such as reduced DCF intensity, and affected SOD1 and CAT mRNA expression. These effects were also demonstrated in the analysis of cell senescence, promoter activity, expression of senescent markers, and DNA repair. Conclusion These results demonstrate that ferulic acid exerts protective effects on UVA-induced cell damages via anti-oxidant and stress-inducible cellular mechanisms in HDFs.

Compatibility study between ferulic acid and excipients used in cosmetic formulations by TG/DTG, DSC and FTIR

Article

Full-text available

Jul 2016
J THERM ANAL CALORIM

Ferulic acid (4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid) is a phytochemical constituent from the polyphenols group commonly found in whole grains, spinach, parsley, grapes and rhubarb. It has been widely applied in skin care formulations as photoprotective agent and delayer of cutaneous photoaging processes. This work aims to establish a protocol to the development of cosmetic formulations using thermoanalytical techniques (TG/DTG and DSC) and Pearson’s correlation by FTIR data, in order to evaluate the compatibility between ferulic acid and excipients used in skin care formulations. The results obtained from the thermoanalytical techniques indicated compatibility between ferulic acid and the following excipients: passion fruit seed oil, Carbopol® Ultrez 30, EDTA, Crodabase CR2®, Crodamol™ GTCC and Dow Corning® RM 2051. Nevertheless, the analysis also demonstrated the possibility of some interaction between ferulic acid and the following excipients: glyceryl stearate, Rapithix® A-60 and Optiphen®. To validate these results, it was demonstrated by Pearson’s correlation that passion fruit seed oil, Carbopol® Ultrez 30, EDTA, Crodabase CR2®, Crodamol™ GTCC, Dow Corning® RM 2051, glyceryl stearate and Rapithix® A-60 do not have any incompatibility that may compromise ferulic acid properties. Finally, it was also proved a meaningful incompatibility between ferulic acid and Optiphen® using Pearson’s correlation. Thus, it is not recommended to use Optiphen® in the development of cosmetic formulations to carry ferulic acid.

Formulation and evaluation of a water-in-oil cream containing herbal active ingredients and ferulic acid

Article

Full-text available

Jun 2016

Background and aims The main aims of the present study were to formulate an anti-age cream based on vegetal ingredients and ferulic acid and to evaluate the physical characteristics and the efficacy of the cream. Methods The active ingredients were Centella asiatica oil, Spilanthes acmella oil, Zingiber officinale extract and ferulic acid. Formulation 1 (F1) was prepared using glyceryl stearate and Ceteareth-25® as emulsifiers and Formulation 2 (F2) using glyceryl stearate and potassium cetyl phosphate, all other ingredients remaining the same. The physical characterization of the creams was performed and the following parameters were analyzed: viscosity, oil droplet size, polydispersity index; also, texture analysis was performed. The anti-aging effect of the F2 was evaluated by assessing the cutaneous density before and after cream application using DUB-cutis® scanner. Results The mean diameter of oil drops was 10.26±4.72 mm (F1) and 22.72±7.93 mm (F2) and the polydispersity index was 35.4% and 45.7%, respectively. The mean values for consistency were 594.7±10.3 g (F1) and 300.5±14.5 g (F2), the average values for adhesion were 15.61±0.8 mJ (F1) and 22.25±4.3 mJ (F2), for firmness were 51.2±0.8 g (F1) and 30.3±4.3 g (F2) and the spreadability had values between 72.63 mm2 (F1) and 73.3 mm2 (F2). In vivo study revealed that the mean values of the cutaneous density increased from 9.21±1.39 % to 12.50±1.44 % after 8 weeks of cream application. The herbal ingredients incorporated in the O/W cream base for the antioxidant activity and anti-wrinkle effect, induced changes of the cutaneous density, an important parameter which quantifies the regeneration process of the skin. Conclusions An anti-age cream containing herbal active ingredients and ferulic acid with appropriate physical characteristics was obtained. In vivo study of clinical efficacy revealed a positive effect on skin density, which increased after 8 weeks of cream application.

Screening of ferulic acid related compounds as inhibitors of xanthine oxidase and cyclooxygenase-2 with anti-inflammatory activity

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2015
REV BRAS FARMACOGN

The ferulic and gallic acid related compounds from natural origin were studied against xanthine oxidase and cyclooxygenase-2 along with their anti-inflammatory activity. The compounds gallic acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid and p-coumaric acid revealed promising anti-inflammatory activity (30–40% TNF-α and 60–75% IL-6 inhibitory activity at 10μM). Bioavailability of compounds were checked by in vitro cytotoxicity using CCK-8 cell lines and confirmed to be nontoxic, but found toxic at higher concentration (50μM). Gallic, ferulic, caffeic acid was demonstrated potential dual inhibition toward xanthine oxidase and cyclooxygenase-2 as calculated by IC50: 68, 70.2, and 65μg/ml (xanthine oxidase) and 68.5, 65.2, and 62.5μg/ml (cyclooxygenase-2), respectively. The structure activity relationship and in silico drug relevant properties (HBD, HBA, PSA, cLogP, ionization potential, molecular weight, EHOMO and ELUMO) further confirmed that the compounds were potential candidates for future drug discovery study, which was expected for further rational drug design against xanthine oxidase and cyclooxygenase.

Synthesis, thermal stability, and antioxidant activity of long-chain alkyl esters of ferulic acid

Article

Full-text available

Jan 2015

Natural lipids, rich in mono-and polyunsaturated fatty acids, are basic components of food; they significantly impact the accurate functioning of human organism. Unfortunately, those lipids are characterized by instability owing to their high susceptibility to oxidation processes. Many treatment procedures are applied to eliminate those adverse changes. In spite of their many advantages, the currently used commercial antioxidants may arouse controversy attributed to the undesirable biological activity or low stability under the food processing conditions. Therefore, there are attempts at searching for new antioxidants that might be an alternative to the presently used antioxidants. The objective of the research study was to develop a method to synthesize long-chain alkyl esters of ferulic acid. The antioxidants produced were identified based on the results of spectroscopic investigations and elemental analysis. A thermal analysis of esters was performed, which comprised thermogravimetry (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results obtained were compared with the results obtained for the free ferulic acid and with data in the reference literature on commercial antioxidants. In the research study, the antioxidant activity of tetradecyl ferulate and of BHT were pre-compared.

Ferulic Acid Exerts Anti-Angiogenic and Anti-Tumor Activity by Targeting Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 1-Mediated Angiogenesis

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2015
INT J MOL SCI

Most anti-angiogenic therapies currently being evaluated target the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway; however, the tumor vasculature can acquire resistance to VEGF-targeted therapy by shifting to other angiogenesis mechanisms. Therefore, other therapeutic agents that block non-VEGF angiogenic pathways need to be evaluated. Here, we identified ferulic acid as a novel fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) inhibitor and a novel agent with potential anti-angiogenic and anti-cancer activities. Ferulic acid demonstrated inhibition of endothelial cell proliferation, migration and tube formation in response to basic fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1). In ex vivo and in vivo angiogenesis assays, ferulic acid suppressed FGF1-induced microvessel sprouting of rat aortic rings and angiogenesis. To understand the underlying molecular basis, we examined the effects of ferulic acid on different molecular components and found that ferulic acid suppressed FGF1-triggered activation of FGFR1 and phosphatidyl inositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (Akt) signaling. Moreover, ferulic acid directly inhibited proliferation and blocked the PI3K-Akt pathway in melanoma cell. In vivo, using a melanoma xenograft model, ferulic acid showed growth-inhibitory activity associated with inhibition of angiogenesis. Taken together, our results indicate that ferulic acid targets the FGFR1-mediated PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, leading to the suppression of melanoma growth and angiogenesis.

Structure-antioxidant activity relationships of flavonoids and isoflavonoids

Article

Jan 1998

Preparation of chitosan matrices with ferulic acid: physicochemical characterization and relationship on the growth of Aspergillus parasiticus

Article

Aug 2016

Antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, and antimicrobial properties have been reported for ferulic acid (FA), therefore, its application interests both food and agriculture research. FA was immobilized in different chitosan (CS) matrices, physicochemicaly characterized and the effect on Aspergillus parasiticus ecological parameters evaluated. Nanoparticles (Nparticles), microparticles (Mparticles) and microcapsules (Mcapsules) of 35–40 nm, 30–40 μm, and 20 μm, respectively were obtained; FA incorporation in matrices affected their morphology, physicochemical properties, and their fungistatic effect. The effect of the particles was dependent on the matrix exposed. Nparticles and Mparticles showed high FA immobilization efficiency as well as a good fungistatic effect against A. parasiticus: Radial growth at 168 h was 28.46 ± 1.01 and 28.84 ± 1.36 and the inhibition of spore germination at 30 h was 57.44 ± 0.22 and 55.74 ± 2.19, for Nparticles and Mparticles, respectively compared with control cultures. Abnormalities in mycelium, hyphae, and spores morphology were observed, as well as low sporulation due particle interaction with the fungus.

Ferulic acid prevents ultraviolet-B radiation induced oxidative DNA damage in human dermal fibroblasts

Article