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Determining the Thermodynamic and Kinetic Association of a DNA Aptamer and Tetracycline Using Isothermal Titration Calorimetry
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Designing Antioxidant-Enriched Extracts from Erica carnea L.: Optimization, Kinetics, and Thermodynamic Insights
Violeta Jevtovic1, Khulood Fahad Saud Alabbosh2, Buthainah Ameen Al Shankiti1
1Chemistry Department, College of Science, University of Ha'il, Ha'il 81451, Saudi Arabia.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|January 28, 2026
Summary
Erica carnea L. provides a rich source of natural antioxidants. Optimized extraction using 30% ethanol at 50°C for 120 minutes maximizes antioxidant recovery for food applications.
Area of Science:
- Natural Product Chemistry
- Food Science and Technology
- Plant Biochemistry
Background:
- Erica carnea L. is recognized for its potential as a natural antioxidant source.
- Antioxidants are crucial for food and beverage applications to prevent spoilage and enhance health benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize extraction variables for maximizing antioxidant yield from Erica carnea L.
- To characterize the antioxidant properties and kinetics of the optimized extract.
Main Methods:
- Full factorial design to optimize ethanol concentration, extraction time, and temperature.
- Antioxidant activity evaluated using DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl radical scavenging, lipid peroxidation inhibition, and metal chelation assays.
- Extraction kinetics modeled using an unsteady-state diffusion model; thermodynamic analysis performed.
Main Results:
- Optimal extraction conditions identified as 30% ethanol, 120 min, and 50 °C.
- Optimized extract demonstrated significant antioxidant activity across multiple assays (e.g., IC50 DPPH = 15.04 μg/mL).
- Extraction process modeled effectively by diffusion kinetics and identified as endothermic and irreversible.
Conclusions:
- Erica carnea L. is a valuable source for antioxidant-rich extracts suitable for food and beverage industries.
- Extraction efficiency is predictable through kinetic and thermodynamic modeling.
- The optimized extract also exhibits cytotoxic and antibacterial properties, broadening its application potential.
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