Therapeutic applications of key compounds in EVOO

Phenolic Compounds, Volatiles, and Fatty Acids

A comprehensive study, conducted by Turkish researchers and published in BMC Chemistry, examined the components of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) from the Sarı Ulak variety. Combining experimental and computational methods, scientists analyzed the therapeutic potential of this oil. The study focused on phenolic compounds, volatiles, and fatty acids, employing techniques such as gas and liquid chromatography, as well as spectrophotometric methods to determine quality and antioxidant activity.

The main results revealed a rich composition of volatile compounds (40 compounds were identified, including estragole, 7-hydroxyheptene-1, and 3-methoxycinnamaldehyde), important phenolic compounds (hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, oleuropein, apigenin, and ferulic and vanillic acids), and a strong binding affinity between oleuropein and pinoresinol with target proteins, suggesting their therapeutic bioactivity. ADMET analysis demonstrated good bioavailability and absorption for hydroxytyrosol and apigenin, highlighting their pharmacological potential, especially for cardiovascular health.

Advanced computational methods, such as density functional theory (DFT) and human genetic network analysis, were used in the study. Oleuropein and pinoresinol were observed to exhibit high polarity and structural stability, crucial factors for protein interactions. KEGG analysis showed a correlation between oleuropein and apigenin and metabolic pathways related to lipids and atherosclerosis. Regarding toxicity, a low cardiac risk was detected, although apigenin may have a greater impact on liver function compared to hydroxytyrosol.

In conclusion, this study contributes to a better understanding of EVOO components and their therapeutic properties, highlighting the potential of hydroxytyrosol, apigenin, and pinoresinol, particularly in the field of cardiovascular health and the prevention of metabolic diseases.

The researchers highlighted the usefulness of computational analyses to complement experimental data and evaluate the safety and efficacy of these compounds for application in the pharmaceutical and food industries.