About this Collection

Phytochemicals, including flavonoids, carotenoids, polyphenols, and glucosinolates, exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects contributing to prevention and management of chronic diseases. These bioactive compounds, abundant in fruits, vegetables, and herbs, modulate cellular pathways involved in metabolism, immune function, and oxidative stress.

This will be a Collection of original research papers  and will be open for submissions from all authors – on the condition that the manuscripts fall within the scope of the Collection and of Scientific Reports more generally. We are welcoming submissions until 28th July 2026.

Contribution highlights

LC-MS/MS characterization, biological activity, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitory potential of five medicinal plant extracts from Romania and Türkiye.

The study found that five traditional medicinal plants from Romania and Türkiye contain natural compounds that can inhibit carbonic anhydrase, an enzyme linked to fluid balance and several health conditions. It highlights summer savory as the most promising plant due to its strong enzyme‑blocking activity and rich antioxidant profile. 

Computational investigation of biochanin a targeting DEPTOR in Alzheimer’s disease with in vitro cellular validation of neuroprotective activity

Biochanin A—a natural compound found in plants like red clover—was shown to bind to and potentially inhibit DEPTOR, a protein linked to brain cell stress in Alzheimer’s disease. In cell experiments, it helped protect neurons from damage, suggesting it may be a promising molecule for future Alzheimer’s‑related therapies.

Macro-micromorphological, anatomical, and phytochemical characterization of Cucumis melo var. agrestis Naudin: a potential source of natural antioxidants

The study examined the wild melon Cucumis melo var. agrestis and found that its leaves, stems, and fruits contain high levels of natural antioxidant compounds that could help protect cells from damage. The researchers also documented the plant’s detailed structure and chemistry, showing it may be a valuable source of plant‑based antioxidants for future health or nutraceutical applications.

Assessment of the cytotoxic, proapoptotic, and genotoxic effects of bromelain on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells

The study found that bromelain—the enzyme mixture from pineapple—can damage human immune cells at higher doses by triggering cell death pathways and causing DNA breaks. These effects suggest that while bromelain has therapeutic potential, its safety depends strongly on dose and exposure conditions.

PEGylated liposomes enhance the pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, anticancer efficacy, and safety of Kaempferol, a phytomolecule enrolled in clinical trials.

PEGylated liposomes helped deliver the natural compound kaempferol more effectively through the body, improving how long it stays in the bloodstream and how well it reaches tumours. This enhanced delivery boosted its anticancer activity while also reducing side effects, suggesting a safer and more powerful treatment approach.

Protective effects of colorless carotenoid precursors against UV-induced lipid oxidation in liposomes compared to lycopene

The researchers found that early, colourless carotenoid precursors were surprisingly effective at protecting liposomes—tiny fat‑based membrane models—from UV‑induced oxidative damage, in some cases performing as well as or better than lycopene. Their results suggest these precursor molecules could serve as useful natural UV‑protective antioxidants in biological or product applications.

Attenuation of LPS-induced inflammatory responses in J774A.1 macrophages by phenylpropanoids and ursane triterpenes from Lavandula coronopifolia Poir.

The study showed that specific phenylpropanoids and ursane triterpenes extracted from Lavandula coronopifolia reduced LPS‑triggered inflammation in mouse macrophage cells by lowering inflammatory signals and promoting healthier cell behaviour. These findings suggest the plant’s compounds may serve as promising natural anti‑inflammatory agents.

Who is involved?

Guest Editors:

• Sudarshana Borah, PhD, The Assam Royal Global University, India
• Nelson Jeng Yeou Chear, PhD, Centre for Drug Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia
• Charalampos Proestos, PhD, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece

Internal Team:

• In-House Editor: Shelby Bollen, Scientific Reports, UK
• Commissioning Editor: Sophie Gray, Fully OA Brands, Springer Nature, UK
• Managing Editor: Libby Symons, Fully OA Brands, Springer Nature, UK

How can I submit my paper to a Collection?

Visit the Scientific Reports website to explore all Collections and learn how to submit your article.