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) of the “Sarı Ulak” variety. Combining experimental and computational methods, the scientists analyzed the therapeutic potential of this oil. The study focused on phenolic compounds, volatiles and fatty acids, using 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 (with 40 compounds 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, underlining 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 found to exhibit high polarity and structural stability, crucial factors for protein interaction. 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 could have a greater impact on liver function compared to hydroxytyrosol.

In conclusion, this study contributes to a better understanding of the components of EVOO and their therapeutic properties, highlighting the potential of hydroxytyrosol, apigenin and pinoresinol, especially 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 their application in the pharmaceutical and food industries.