Multidimensional Exploration, Mechanism Analysis and Health Applications of Plant-Derived Bioactive Substances

Plant-derived bioactive substances, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and plant protein peptides, exhibit diverse biological activities including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, immunomodulatory, and metabolic regulatory effects. Despite advances in extraction and identification techniques, a comprehensive understanding of their multi-dimensional properties—from chemical diversity and bioavailability to molecular targets and systemic effects—remains fragmented. Current research often focuses on isolated compounds or single health outcomes, lacking integrative approaches that combine phytochemistry, bioavailability studies, mechanistic insights, and translational applications. This Research Topic aims to bridge these gaps by fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and presenting holistic investigations into plant bioactives.

This Research Topic seeks to compile cutting-edge research that explores plant-derived bioactive substances through multidimensional lenses—spanning chemical profiling, mechanistic studies, bioavailability assessment, and health-related investigations. We aim to advance the understanding of how these compounds interact with biological systems, elucidate their structure–activity relationships, and evaluate their potential in modulating physiological and health outcomes. The collection welcomes studies ranging from basic research to translational science, contributing to a cohesive knowledge base for researchers in food science, nutrition, pharmacology, and related fields.

Key areas include but are not limited to:
• Advanced extraction, separation, and characterization techniques for plant bioactives
• Multi-omics approaches (genomics, metabolomics, proteomics) to study bioactive mechanisms
• In vitro and in vivo models for assessing bioavailability, bioactivity, and safety
• Molecular pathways involved in the effects of plant-derived compounds
• Studies on plant bioactives in preclinical models (including animal studies) and relevant translational research
• Sustainable sourcing, stability, and formulation strategies for functional foods and nutraceuticals
• Interdisciplinary approaches integrating food science, nutrition, pharmacology, and systems biology