Showing papers in "Journal of Food Biochemistry in 2017"

Therapeutic effects of silymarin and naringin on methotrexate‐induced nephrotoxicity in rats: Biochemical evaluation of anti‐inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antiautophagic properties

Abstract: Silymarin (SLY) and naringin (NRG) are natural flavonoids that have been reported to have many benefits and medicinal properties. The present study was designed to investigate the protective effect of SLY and NRG against methotrexate (MTX)-induced nephrotoxicity in experimental animals. Rats were subjected to oral pretreatment of SLY (25 and 50 mg/kg body weight (b.w.)/day) and NRG (50 and 100 mg/kg b.w./day) for 7 days against renal toxicity induced by single intraperitoneal administration of MTX (20 mg/kg b.w.). MTX resulted in an increase in serum toxicity markers, lipid peroxidation, and reduction in activities of antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, MTX provoked inflammatory responses by increasing the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NF-κB, and activation of COX-2 and iNOS. Furthermore, MTX administration caused apoptosis and autophagy by increasing activity of Caspase-3 and light chain 3B level. Conversely, SLY and NRG therapy significantly decreased these values in rats. This study demonstrated that SLY and NRG protect against MTX-induced nephrotoxicity. Practical applications Chemotherapeutic drugs have been used for cancer treatment for many years. However, in the treatment process, they may damage organs such as liver and kidney, prolong the treatment process and negatively affects patient welfare. This study revealed that silymarin and naringin exhibited potent anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antiautophagic effect in renal injury caused by methotrexate, a chemotherapeutic drug. Therefore, treatment silymarin and naringin can be used for the beneficial effect against methotrexate-induced kidney damage in cancer chemotherapy.

Apigenin: A current review on its beneficial biological activities

Abstract: Apigenin, identified as 4′,5,7-trihydroxyflavone, is a natural flavonoid compound present in a variety of fruits, vegetables, functional foods, and medicinal plants. Many studies have revealed that apigenin has the cytostatic and cytotoxic effects on the various cancer cells, prevents the atherogenesis, hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, ischemia/reperfusion-induced heart injury, and autoimmune myocarditis, protects the chemicals- and ischemia/reperfusion-induced liver injury, inhibits the asthma, bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, abnormal behavior, and oxygen and glucose deprivation/reperfusion-induced neural cell apoptosis, improves the pancreatitis, type 2 diabetes and its complication, osteoporosis, and collagen-induced arthritis. These biological effects suggest that apigenin may be a potential health promoting agent. In the article, we will review these effects and possible biochemical mechanisms. Practical applications Apigenin-rich chamomile, propolis, and garlic oil have been used in the prevention ane cure of hypertension and chemicals-induced liver injury as food supplements. However, their bioactive components and mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Apigenin may be a common effective component and play an important role in the process of therapy. In addition, apigenin itself may also be considered as a potential functional food, but the further development will be needed to apply to the prevention and treatment of some-related diseases in the future.

Prospects of brown seaweed polysaccharides (BSP) as prebiotics and potential immunomodulators

Abstract: Prebiotics enhance immune response through the modulation of intestinal microbial activities, production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA), direct interaction with toll-like receptors and mucin production. These non-digestible food components are known to be resistant to enzymatic hydrolysis by digestive enzymes and are utilized as carbon source for the growth of beneficial bacteria population through the process of fermentation. Brown seaweed polysaccharides (BSP) have been described as emerging prebiotics due to their potential to stimulate gut microbiota activities at in vitro and in vivo stages. This review therefore examines evidence of the relationship between the prebiotic capacity of BSP, their structure, extraction, and possible mechanisms of immunomodulation. Practical applications Bio-functional ingredients have been widely explored for numerous health benefits. Of interest to this review are polysaccharides of brown seaweed which have great prebiotic prospects. Prebiotics are important bio-functional ingredients having the potential to improve immune health. An understanding of the prebiotic and immunomodulatory potential of BSP provides the food industry a novel alternative source of prebiotics. Excerpts from this review will provide background knowledge and advance scientific research into prospects of BSP as prebiotics and a possible commercialization of BSP products.

Blends of Cold Pressed Black Cumin Oil and Sunflower Oil with Improved Stability: A Study Based on Changes in the Levels of Volatiles, Tocopherols and Thymoquinone during Accelerated Oxidation Conditions

Abstract: Blends (5%, 10% and 20%, w/w) of cold-pressed black cumin (Nigella sativa) oil (BCO) with sunflower oil (SO) were formulated. Oxidative stability (OxS) of SO and blends during storage at thermal accelerated oxidation conditions including Rancimat method (110C) and Schaal oven test (60C) was studied. Progression of oxidation was followed by measuring peroxide value (PV), conjugated dienes (CD) and conjugated trienes (CT). Changes in the volatile oxidation compounds, thymoquinone and tocopherols levels of oils and blends during thermal oxidation were also recorded. Blending did not affect significantly the fatty acids profile of blends wherein linoleic and oleic acids were the main constituents. Inverse relationships were noted between PV and OxS at termination of storage. Levels of CD and CT in SO and blends increased with increase in time. Nine volatile oxidation compounds including hexanal, (E)-2-hexenal, 2-heptanone, (E)-2-heptenal, 1-octen-3-one, 1-octen-3-ol, (E)-2-octenal, (E,E)-2,4-octadienal and (E,E)-2,4-decadienal were identified using the headspace/solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (HS/SPME-GC/MS). Hexanal and (E)-2-heptenal were predominant identified compounds wherein these compounds increased during oxidation at 60C. Stability of blends was better than SO, most likely due to changes in the levels of thymoquinone and tocopherols’ found in BCO. Practical Application Blending of edible oils have emerged as an economical way of improving organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics of vegetable oils besides enhancement the oxidative stability. Among new sources of edible oils with high levels of bioactive compounds, cold pressed black cumin oil (BCO) is of interest and may play a role in human health. At different levels of blending SO with BCO, the stability of sunflower oil (SO) was enhanced. The optimal level of BCO enrichment will depend on the actual food application. It is expected that commercial exploitation of BCO:SO blends with affordable cost for consumers will be soon realized.

Protective Effect of Astaxanthin on Primary Retinal Cells of the Gerbil Psammomys Obesus Cultured in Diabetic Milieu

Abstract: Astaxanthin is a major marine carotenoid with powerful antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. The in vitro protective effect of astaxanthin in adult retinal cells of the type-2 diabetic model Psammomys obesus in hyperglycemic conditions was investigated. Primary retinal cells were cultured in normal (5 mM) or high concentrations of glucose (25 and 40 mM) for 5 days and treated with 1–20 µM astaxanthin for the last 48 h of culturing. Mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity and cell viability were assessed using MTT test and trypan blue exclusion dye. Retinal cells were characterized by immunohistochemistry. The results showed that mitochondrial function increased significantly (P < 0.05) with 5–20 µM astaxanthin in 25–40 mM glucose. At 10 µM astaxanthin, cell viability recovered to 78.51 ± 5.81% and 54.37 ± 9.64% of control in 25 and 40 mM, respectively. Neurons and glial cells expression were enhanced in elevated glucose conditions. These finding suggest that astaxanthin exerted neuroprotection against high glucose induced- retinal damage. Practical Applications The xanthophyll astaxanthin is found in many marine food sources such as shrimp. The cytoprotective and antioxidant capacity of astaxanthin in retinal disease has been pointed out and presented as a promising therapeutic strategy. The present study shows that astaxanthin can interfere with hyperglycemia-induced retinal cell death and that primary retinal culture of Psammomys obesus may represent an effective system to explore astaxanthin antioxidant mechanisms in diabetic retinopathy.

Purification and identification of antioxidant peptides from gelatin hydrolysate of seabass skin

Abstract: Antioxidant peptides from gelatin hydrolysate of seabass (Lates calcarifer) skin prepared by Alcalase were isolated using a series of chromatographic techniques including Sephadex G-25 column and reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography. Identification of the antioxidant peptides was carried out using UPLC–ESI-MS/MS. Four potent antioxidant peptides with 5–12 amino acid residues were identified as Gly-Leu-Phe-Gly-Pro-Arg (646.3671 Da), Gly-Ala-Thr-Gly-Pro-Gln-Gly-Pro-Leu-Gly-Pro-Arg (1,107.5905 Da), Val-Leu-Gly-Pro-Phe (532.3130 Da), and Gln-Leu-Gly-Pro-Leu-Gly-Pro-Val (780.4614 Da). The identified peptides were synthesized and analyzed for 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radical scavenging activity. Gly-Leu-Phe-Gly-Pro-Arg exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (81.41 mmol TE/µmol peptide) (P < .05). Therefore, peptides prepared from seabass skin could be employed as functional food ingredients. Practical applications Seabass skin, by-product from fish processing industry, is a potential raw material for production of protein hydrolysates with bioactivities. Enzymatic cleavage of fish skin gelatin has been used to produce antioxidant peptides. In this study, the potent antioxidant peptides from seabass skin gelatin hydrolysate were purified and identified using a series of chromatographic techniques. Seabass skin gelatin hydrolysate could be used as potential functional food ingredient or nutraceutical with antioxidant activity.

Bioavailability of iron and zinc as affected by phytic acid content in rice grain

Abstract: Phytic acid (PA) is considered as an anti-nutritional factor (ANF) present in cereals and legumes and bind to cationic minerals including iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn), thus reducing their bioavailability in both ruminants and nonruminants. The present study was aimed at finding the impact of PA on bioavailability of Fe and Zn. Six rice cultivars with contrasting PA were evaluated for total phosphorus (P), PA, Fe, and Zn in brown and processed rice. A significant correlation of PA of brown rice with PA of milled rice (r = .69) was observed. PA and Zn content were negatively correlated (r = −.55) in brown rice while no significant correlation was found between PA and Zn in milled rice. The rice cultivar Bindli, with lowest PA (0.82 g/100 g) was found to exhibit high Zn bioavailability, while PB267, with highest PA (2.62 g/100 g) showed low Zn and Fe bioavailability. Practical applications Rice is staple food for millions of people, especially the Asians. Fe and Zn are essential micronutrients required for human growth and development, but the rice grain is deficient in Fe and has only moderate amounts of Zn. The bioavailability of these minerals are impaired by PA which chelates and bind cationic minerals in both ruminants and nonruminants. Screening of rice genotypes with low PA and high minerals bioavailability may be suitable for people suffering from micronutrient malnutrition.

Structural features underlying prebiotic activity of conventional and potential prebiotic oligosaccharides in food and health

Abstract: Indigestible oligosaccharides (OSs) with specific properties are known to influence overall health status of individuals as well as that of the gastro-intestinal tract via alteration of the gut microbial composition. These biomolecules selectively stimulate proliferation of desirable bacterial species while inhibiting harmful microbes. Gut microbiota release short chain fatty acids on fermenting these OSs that also promote a healthy gut. Prebiotic activity is resultant of a synergy between the chemical nature of the OSs and the metabolic machinery of beneficial microflora in the human gut. Prebiotic effectiveness of the OSs is also dependent on processing stability during extraction and incorporation into the edible food-matrix. The present review provides a structural perspective on conventional and potential prebiotic OSs with regards to their effects on colonic microflora, stability and potential application in food systems. Practical applications Altering intestinal microbiota is being viewed as an active mechanism of developing immune resistance, infectious process control and overall health promotion in individuals. Food researchers and segments of the food industry are actively developing products with prebiotic properties looking to maintain health status of the populace and strengthening the competitive market. The insights from this review can drive towards developing food-incorporated prebiotic formulations from a number of different sources.

Characterization and Antibacterial Mode of Action of Lactic Acid Bacterium Leuconostoc mesenteroides HJ69 from Kimchi

Abstract: This study characterized a lactic acid bacterium Leuconostoc mesenteroides HJ69 at biochemical and molecular level, isolate from traditional Korean fermented food Kimchi. Cell free supernatant (CFS) of L. mesenteroides HJ69 exhibited significant (P < 0.05) antibacterial effect as diameters of inhibition zones (14.34 ± 0.31 – 18.21 ± 0.23 mm) against the tested foodborne pathogenic bacteria with minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration values found in the range of 250–2,000 and 500–2,000 μg/mL, respectively. Further, CFS of L. mesenteroides HJ69 revealed its mode of action on membrane integrity as confirmed by the increased release of potassium ions (800 and 750 mM/L), loss of 260-nm absorbing materials (3.85 and 3.77 OD), and increase in relative electrical conductivity (8.6 and 8.2%) against two selected bacteria L. monocytogenes KCTC-3569 (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli O157:H7 (Gram-negative), respectively. The above findings hypothesize that L. mesenteroides HJ69 compromised its mode of action on membrane integrity, suggesting its enormous potential in the food industry. Practical Applications Asian countries have enormous use of fermented food products enriched with large populations of health-beneficial lactic acid bacteria (LAB). This study describes the isolation of a LAB strain Leuconostoc mesenteroides HJ69 from traditional Korean fermented food Kimchi along with its biochemical and molecular characterization. The cell free supernatant of L. mesenteroides HJ69 displayed remarkable antibacterial effect against various foodborne pathogenic bacteria with a hypothesized mode of action in several assays. These findings suggest that L. mesenteroides HJ69 could be an effective candidate for its practical application in food industry to control the proliferation of foodborne pathogenic bacteria as a natural antimicrobial agent.

Preservation effect of high pressure processing on ascorbic acid of fruits and vegetables: A review

Abstract: High Pressure Processing (HPP) is a well-established nonthermal technology for ensuring microbial safety and nutritional quality of foods. Ascorbic acid (AA) is highly labile antioxidant, susceptible to degradation when exposed to oxygen, change in pH, temperature, or pressure. Preservation of AA in fruit and vegetable products is a prime concern for food processors. This review summarizes recent data on the effect of HPP on AA content of different fruits and vegetables, and their products. In most of the food products, HPP has supported either preservation or better retention of AA after pressurization (400–600 MPa/5–10 min) at lower or room temperature. High pressure processed foods have demonstrated better stability of AA during refrigeration storage as compared to thermally processed ones. These studies establish the positive implications of HPP and justify its potential use as a promising preservation technique to safeguard AA in on food products.

Cognitive Enhancing and Antioxidative Potentials of Velvet Beans (Mucuna pruriens) and Horseradish (Moringa oleifera) Seeds Extracts: A Comparative Study

Abstract: Velvet beans and Horseradish seeds are widely consumed as food, and use in folklore for the treatment of cognitive dysfunction although with limited information on their mechanisms of action. This study investigated and compared the effects of aqueous extracts of these seeds on the cholinergic [acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE)] and monoaminergic [monoamine oxidase (MAO)] enzymes and FeSO4-induced thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) in isolated rat brain homogenate. Results revealed that both extracts inhibited AChE, BChE, MAO and TBARS in a dose-dependent manner. However, Horseradish seeds extract had higher AChE, BChE and MAO inhibitory abilities with IC50 values of 0.27, 0.18 and 0.14 mg/mL, respectively, relatively to Velvet beans (AChE = 0.39; BChE = 0.39; MAO = 0.29 mg/mL) extract but displayed lower TBARS inhibitory ability. These biological properties of the seeds explain possible mechanisms for their neuroprotective abilities. However, Horseradish seeds showed better promising potentials than Velvet beans seeds. Practical Application Edible seeds are well known for their various health benefits due to their bioactivity. The findings from this study will add valuable preliminary information regarding the potential use of Velvet beans seeds and Horseradish seeds as cheap, natural, alternative and/or complementary sources of antioxidative and neuroprotective agents. The findings will provide scientific evidence on health advantages of these seeds that might result from their consumption; thereby enabling consumers and patients with neurodegeneration to make better choices.

The biochemical composition of the leaves and seeds meals of moringa species as non-conventional sources of nutrients

Abstract: Some physicochemical properties of the oil, crude protein, sugars, and amino acids of the leaves and seed meals of two Moringa species were determined and compared using Student's T-test. The oil properties and fatty acid composition were significantly (at either p ≤ .01 or p ≤ .05) varied between the two species. The sterols and tocopherols contents of the species oil differed significantly. Most of the sterols were not detected in Moringa oleifera oil. The sugars contents were significantly different between the two species. The protein contents of M. oleifera leaves and seed meals were significantly higher than those of Moringa peregrina. Compared with M. peregrina, the M. oleifera leaves and seed meals had significantly higher amounts of amino acids. The most concentrated amino acids in the M. oleifera leaves and seed meals were glutamic acid, aspartic acid and leucine whereas those in M. peregrina were threonine, serine, and proline. Practical applications Moringa seed kernels contain a significant amount of oil. Moringa leaves are a good human food and animal feed. Various parts of Moringa oleifera are incorporated into the traditional food of humans. The leaves of Moringa are a good source of protein, vitamin A, B, and C. The leaf of M. oleifera contains crude protein up to 25%. In many tropical and subtropical countries, various parts of M. oleifera (leaves, fruits, immature pods, and flowers) are incorporated into the traditional food of humans.

Optimization of extraction of antioxidative phenolic compounds from cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) leaves using response surface methodology

Abstract: Optimization of extraction of antioxidative phenolic compounds from cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) leaves was performed using response surface methodology (RSM). The central composite design (CCD) was used to establish treatments based on three independent variables, including extraction temperature, time, and ethanol-to-solid ratio. Total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidative activities (DPPH, ABTS radical scavenging activities, and FRAP), and % yield were monitored. The extraction yield was 8.64% under the following optimized condition: extraction at 34.7°C for 64 min with an ethanol-to-solid ratio of 18:1 vol/wt. TPC was 564.60 mg GAE/g dry extract and DPPH, ABTS radical scavenging activities, and FRAP were 11.74, 5.56, and 8.11 mmol TE/g dry extract, respectively. The experiment values were in accordance with the predicted values. Isoquercetin, catechin, hydroquinin, gallic acid, tannic acid, and rutin were found in the extract. The extract could therefore be used as natural antioxidant for food application or as nutraceutical. Practical applications Cashew leaf is a potential source of phenolics with antioxidative activity. Extraction method is the first important step in isolation of interested compound, in which the target compounds are extracted with high recovery and without interferences. Optimization of extraction is the procedure that can be used to extract the bioactive compounds having antioxidant capacity with high efficiency. Cashew leaf extract also can be used for food application or serve as nutraceuticals.

Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties of Essential Oil Extracted from an Edible Seaweed Undaria Pinnatifida

Abstract: This study was conducted to extract essential oil from an edible seaweed, Undaria pinnatifida, and determine its chemical constituents, antibacterial and antioxidant potential. Gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy analysis of the U. pinnatifida essential oil (UPEO) revealed 26 volatile compounds comprising a total of 97.03%. Fatty acids such as tetradecanoic acid (31.32%) and hexadecanoic acid (22.39%) were present in the highest amount, followed by 3-hexen-1-ol (5.67%), erythritol (4.73%), 4-imidazolidinone (4.40%) and (9Z)-hexadec-9-enoic acid (4.37%). UPEO displayed potent antibacterial activity (9.5–11.0 mm inhibition zone), an MIC of 12.5–25.0 mg/mL and an MBC of 25.0 mg/mL. UPEO also exhibited strong hydroxyl radical scavenging (IC50 85.54 µg/mL), reducing power (IC0.5 178.82 µg/mL) and superoxide radical scavenging (IC50 260.89 µg/mL) potential. Taken together, these results indicate that UPEO could be an economical and safe resource for natural antioxidant and antibacterial compounds that can be utilized in food processing, cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors. Practical Applications Seaweeds are a rich source of natural bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties. The essential oils extracted from an edible seaweed, U. pinnatifida, could serve as an alternative source of natural antioxidant compounds with the potential for use as food additives and in food preservation and cosmetics. Use of this compound could minimize the use of synthetic antioxidant compounds that trigger health hazards. Furthermore, the bioactive compounds present in the UPEO could serve as a source of natural antibiotics against both Gram positive and Gram negative pathogenic bacteria.

The interaction effect and mechanism between tea polyphenols and intestinal microbiota: Role in human health

Abstract: Tea polyphenols (TP) have shown various biological activities. However, for the low bioavailability, only small parts of TP are directly absorbed by the small intestine, the majority are thought to remain in the intestinal tract. The unabsorbed parts are metabolized to a variety of derivative products of different structures by intestinal flora, which may accumulate to exert physiological effects. Meanwhile, recent studies have demonstrated that TP may modulate intestinal bacterial diversity and richness, contributing to the improvements of host health. In this review, current information about the microbial degradation metabolites obtained from TP and their formation pathways were assembled. Additionally, in order to understand the two-way phenolic-microbiota interaction, the modulation of gut microbiota by TP was also discussed. In particular, the health benefits of TP may be attributed to their bioactive metabolites and the modulatory effect of human intestinal microbiota. Practical applications The human gut has been viewed as a bioreactor, which is the main place for the interaction of TP and gut microbiota. TP and their bacterial metabolites may accumulate to exert significant effects on intestinal microenvironment by modulating intestinal bacterial in addition to their direct beneficial effect. The health effects of TP between different people have been shown as the result of individual variability in intestinal microbial ecology. Furthermore, a better understanding of TP and intestinal microbiota will allow us to better evaluate the contribution of the microbial metabolites of TP to the improvements of host health.

Erectogenic, Antihypertensive, Antidiabetic, Anti-Oxidative Properties and Phenolic Compositions of Almond Fruit (Terminalia catappa L.) Parts (Hull and Drupe) – in vitro

Abstract: This study was conducted to determine the effects of almond (Terminalia catappa L.) fruit parts (hull and drupe) extracts on key enzymes (arginase, angiotensin-1-converting enzyme, α-amylase and α-glucosidase) relevant to erectile dysfunction, type-2 diabetes and hypertension, assess their antioxidant properties and characterize their phenolic constituents. The hull and drupe extracts were prepared by a mixture of absolute methanol and 1N HCl, evaporated to dryness and used for subsequent analysis. The result revealed that the hull and drupe extracts inhibited arginase, angiotensin-1-converting enzyme, α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities in a dose-dependent manner. Both extracts scavenged radicals, reduced Fe3+ to Fe2+, chelated Fe2+ and inhibited lipid peroxidation in rat penile homogenate in vitro. Chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid and kaempferol were identified as the major phenolic compounds. This study suggests that these fruit parts can be natural sources of erectogenic, antihypertensive antidiabetic and anti-oxidative agents. However, the hull showed better potential than the drupe. Practical Applications The results suggest that Almond (Terminalia catappa L.) fruit parts, including the hull and drupe, have potential applications as functional foods and nutraceuticals for both animal and human nutrition. In addition, the hull and drupe could be useful for therapeutic purposes as erectogenic, antihypertensive, antidiabetic and anti-oxidative agents.

Antifungal Activity of Trans-2-Hexenal Against Penicillium cyclopium by a Membrane Damage Mechanism

Abstract: The study investigated the antifungal activity and potential antifungal mechanisms of volatile compounds (i.e., E-2-hexenal) against Penicillium cyclopium, one of the main tomato postharvest pathogens, which was obtained and purified from postharvest tomato surface. Experimental data suggested that the volatile compound exhibited strong antifungal activity against the targeted pathogens, with minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration of 160 μL/L and 320μL/L for E-2-hexenal, respectively. The membrane permeability of the P. cyclopium increased with increasing concentrations of E-2-hexenal, as evidenced by cell constituent release, leakage of potassium ions, and extracellular conductivity. Moreover, E-2-hexenal could induce a decrease in total lipid content and extracellular pH. These results suggest that the anti-fungal activity of E-2-hexenal against P. cyclopium can be attributed to the disruption of the cell membrane integrity, the increase of membrane permeability and the leakage of cell components. Practical Applications Penicillium cyclopium was isolated from the surface of tomato fruits after harvest. E-2-hexenal had an inhibitory effect on the hyphae and spores of P. cyclopium. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration were determined by using different concentrations of E-2-hexenal against P. cyclopium. The study results indicate that the antifungal activity of E-2-hexenal against P. cyclopium can be attributed to the disruption of the cell membrane integrity, the increase of membrane permeability and the leakage of cell components. The study results provided a reference for extending the storage of tomato fruits.

Phenolic compounds profile and antioxidant activity of commercial tropical red wines (Vitis vinifera L.) from São Francisco Valley, Brazil

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the phenolic composition and antioxidant activity of commercial red wines produced from Vitis vinifera L. grapes grown in the Sao Francisco Valley (SFV), which is a tropical region in northeastern Brazil. All wines showed phenolic compound contents consistent with those of other traditional wine producing regions and high antioxidant activity. In total, 20 phenolic compounds were quantified by RP-HPLC-DAD-FD and the antioxidant activity was positively correlated with the content of syringic acid > peonidin 3-O-glucoside > ρ-coumaric acid > (+)-catechin, epigallocatechin gallate > cyanidin-3-O-glucoside > procyanidin A2 > (-)-epicatechin, highlighting the contribution of these bioactive compounds to the antioxidant potential of tropical wines. This study shows that it is possible to obtain wines with a good bioactive component and high antioxidant activity in tropical climates such as that of the SFV. The data reported herein contribute to our knowledge of the wine producing potential of new regions worldwide. Practical applications An important difference between the tropical viticulture practiced in the Sao Francisco Valley (SFV) and that of other traditional regions of the world is that in the SFV each vine can produce two harvests per year. Also, since this is a region with hot weather, high luminosity and abundant water for irrigation, wineries operate according to a particular scheme, according to the best period in which to harvest the grapes and to prune the vines. Also, the “step” system can be applied, where the harvesting is distributed within a certain period (e.g., one month, several months, or the whole year). Thus, it is possible to prepare wines throughout the year. This study contributes to gaining a better enological understanding of the wines produced in an atypical grape production region.

Bioactive peptides derived from bovine and porcine co-products: A review

Abstract: The use of meat processing co-products to recover economically valuable food ingredients, with health-promoting properties represents an opportunity to enhance the economic performance of the meat industry and to reduce the environmental impact of meat production. This paper discusses the potential of meat processing co-products for use as substrates for bioactive peptide generation with varied bioactivities including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antihypertensive properties. Moreover, the current state-of-art of meat-derived bioactive peptides is reviewed with a focus on peptides with proven in vivo bioactivities. Practical applications Meat processing co-products represent a problem for meat processors due to the large volumes generated and its high pollutant load. These co-products are usually used for low-value purposes. However, co-products such as blood or lung can be used as resources for the generation of bioactive peptides with health-promoting properties which could be used as ingredients in the functional foods industry.

Determination of phenolic compounds profile in chestnut and floral honeys and their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities

Abstract: Thirty chestnut and twenty-six of floral honeys were collected from different regions of Turkey. The amounts of phenolic compounds in honeys were determined by high performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection. The antioxidant capacities were determined by ABTS and CHROMAC methods. The total phenolic content of honeys were determined by spectrophotometric method using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. Caffeic, protocatechuic, and p-hydroxybenzoic acids are the major phenolic compounds with the contents of 44.52, 17.48, and 21.50 mg/kg, respectively in chestnut honeys. Chestnut honeys exhibited the higher antioxidant and better antimicrobial activities, and than the floral honeys. Floral honeys contain similar amounts of propolis flavonoids such as pinocembrin, chrysin, and galangin. The results show that these flavonoids can be used as chemical markers in honey samples. Practical applications Honey is an important natural product that contains major compounds including glucose and fructose and minor components such as amino acids, organic acids, enzymes, vitamins, proteins, phytochemical substances mainly flavonoids and other phenolic compounds. Plants are important sources of natural compounds that contain polyphenolic derivatives such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. These bioactive compounds can be transferred from plants to honey. Polyphenolic compounds were recognized as the major components responsible for health-promoting properties of honey. This article evaluates the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities and phenolic compounds of chestnut and floral honeys. The chemical content and biological properties of honey have been studied extensively in many but there are a few studies in our knowledge about the determination of phenolic compounds in chestnut honey.

Eckol from Eisenia bicyclis Inhibits Inflammation Through the Akt/NF‐κB Signaling in Propionibacterium acnes‐Induced Human Keratinocyte Hacat Cells

Abstract: To investigate whether eckol, a phlorotannin compound from edible brown seaweed Eisenia bicyclis, could be responsible for the suppression of inflammatory processes, we examined the anti-inflammatory effects of eckol on Propionibacterium acnes-induced human skin keratinocytes (HaCaT) cells. P. acnes–treated HaCaT cells increased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chomokines. We also examined in vitro regulatory function of eckol on production of nitric oxide (NO), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)−2 and MMP-9 as well as expression of inducible NO synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, and tumor necrosis factor-α. Eckol inhibited the expression or formation production of these proinflammatory mediators and cytokines in HaCaT cells. Additionally, treatment of HaCaT cells with P. acnes significantly increased protein kinase B (Akt) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation. Eckol inhibited P. acnes-mediated phosphorylation of Akt and activation of NF-κB in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that eckol could be a potential therapeutic agent to effectively treat the inflammatory skin disease induced by P. acnes. Practical Applications Eisenia bicyclis is a common perennial phaeophyceae (brown alga) and generally inhabits the region of Ulleung Island in the East sea of Korea. This edible seaweed is widely consumed in various ways such as appetizers, casseroles, muffins, pilafs, and soups. E. bicyclis also has various physiological properties such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities because of their substantial quantities of phenolic compounds, constituted mainly by marine-derived polyphenols (phlorotannins). Eckol, one of phlorotannins from E. bicyclis, shows therapeutic effectiveness against viable P. acnes-induced inflammation in HaCaT cells. Thus, we suggest that eckol from E. bicyclis is a potential treatment for anti-inflammatory therapy for acne vulgaris.

Structural properties of phycoerythrin from dulse palmaria palmata

Abstract: We found that the red alga dulse (Palmaria palmata) contains a lot of proteins, which is mainly composed of phycoerythrin (PE) and the protein hydrolysates showed high angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activities. Therefore, we investigated the structure of dulse PE to discuss its structure-function relationship. We prepared the chloroplast DNA and analyzed the nucleotide sequences encoding PE by cDNA cloning method. It was clarified that dulse PE has α- and β-subunits and they are composed by 164 amino acids (MW: 17,638) and 177 amino acids (MW: 18,407), respectively. The dulse PE contained conserved cysteine residues for chromophore attachment site. On the alignment of amino acid sequences of dulse PE with those of other red algal PE, the sequence identities were very high (81–92%). In addition, we purified and crystallized the dulse PE, and its crystal structure was determined at 2.09 A resolution by molecular replacement method. The revealed 3D structure of dulse PE which forms an (αβ)6 hexamer was similar to other red algal PEs. Conversely, it was clarified that the dulse PE proteins are rich in hydrophobic amino acid residues (51.0%), especially aromatic amino acid and proline residues. The data imply that the high ACE inhibitory activity of dulse protein hydrolysates would be caused by the specific amino acid composition and sequence of dulse PE. Practical Applications Dulse is an abundant and underused resource, which contains a lot of phycobiliproteins. Then, the dulse protein hydrolysates strongly inhibited the activity of ACE. Therefore, it has the potential to be an ingredient of functional food.

α-Glucosidase inhibitory and antioxidant activities of different Ipomoea aquatica cultivars and LC-MS/MS profiling of the active cultivar.

Abstract: The present study was designed to investigate the effect of Ipomoea aquatica extracted using water and methanol at various concentrations on the total phenolics, antioxidant capacity, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. Three I. aquatica cultivars were used in this study including the upland type with narrow leaves (K-11), low-land aquatic types with broader shaped leaves (K-25), and bamboo-shaped leaves (K-88). The results revealed that 70% methanol extract of K-11 showed higher total phenolic content and α-glucosidase inhibitory and antioxidant activities than the other two cultivars. The phytochemical constituents in the active extract K-11 were analyzed by means of liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and electrospray tandem mass spectroscopy. Eighteen compounds were detected of which 13 were tentatively identified as quercetin-3-O-sophoroside, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, quercetin-3,7-di-O-glucoside, nomilinic acid glucoside, 4,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, luteolin-7-glucoside and 3,4,5-tricaffeolquinic acid, fatty acid together with quercetin, and tricaffeoylquinic acid derivatives. Practical Applications Antioxidants protect the human body against infections and degenerative diseases by inhibiting and scavenging free radicals. The present study showed that all methanol extracts of I. aquatica are rich in polyphenols in which 70% methanol extract showed highest in vitro antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. Knowledge about the antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of I. aquatica will promote its usage as a functional food, and it can be utilized as an antioxidant sources in food industry.

Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction of Rice Bran Protein Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract: Rice bran was used for isolating protein through ultrasonic-assisted extraction. The protein was converted into protein hydrolysates (PH) with three commercial enzymes. The optimal condition for rice bran protein production was 76% sonication amplitude, 18 min extraction and 0.99 g/10 mL solid–liquid ratio, which gave protein yield of 4.73 ± 0.03%. The degree of hydrolysis for the rice bran protein by Subtilisin A (SPH), Actinase E (APH) and Neutrase 0.8L (NPH) was 20.03 ± 0.24%, 13.84 ± 0.04% and 5.54 ± 0.07%, respectively. The molecular weight of the isolated proteins ranged between <11 to 75 kDa. The NPH exhibited greater scavenging activity on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryhydrazyl radical and ACE-inhibitory activities. The SPH was efficient in reducing power and metal chelating activities. In addition, NHP displayed the highest positive effect for foaming activity (66.25%), then followed by APH (57.50%) and SPH (52.50%). The results suggest that the partial hydrolyzed rice bran protein is more suitable for application in food systems rather than the non-hydrolyzed form. Practical Application Optimizing the condition for rice bran protein extraction is desirable and practical for related plant materials. Understanding the optimal conditions is important because it could enable an extraction method that could be used instead of conventional methods that take a long time for extraction. This study also suggests some enzymes for producing rice bran protein hydrolysates (PH) that have desired properties for specific usage such as for antioxidant activities and/or functional properties. The method for producing PH and controlling the degree of hydrolysis could be promptly applied.

Biocalcium powder from precooked skipjack tuna bone: Production and its characteristics

Abstract: Biocalcium (BC) powder from the bones of precooked skipjack tuna was produced and characterized, compared to calcined bone (CB) powder. Higher calcium (40.35%) and phosphorous (15.28%) contents were found in the CB powder, compared to BC powder (26.91 and 12.63%, respectively). Nevertheless, similar Ca/P ratio was observed (1.62–1.65). Mean particle sizes of both powders were 17.07–20.29 µm. BC powder had higher b* (yellowness) with slightly lower L* (lightness) values than the CB counterpart (p < .05). Both samples showed a characteristic peak of hydroxyapatite in X-ray diffraction patterns, in which the crystallinities of the BC and CB powders were 45.19 and 74.69%, respectively. Amides I, II, and III peaks in Fourier transform infrared spectrum, hydroxyproline, and protein were detected only in the BC powder. BC powder had a low abundance of volatile compounds, including aldehydes, alcohols, and ketones. A negligible amount of volatiles was found in the CB powder. Practical applications Calcium supplementation has been increasingly used to alleviate the lack of calcium in the human body, particularly inadequate levels of calcium and poor absorption. Calcium associated with peptides or biocalcium (BC) has a higher advantage in terms of absorption than calcium alone. Precooked skipjack tuna is considered a promising source for BC production due to its abundance. BC with improved color and odor along with increased solubility in gastrointestinal tract can be used as an alternative calcium supplement to tackle the inadequate intake of dietary calcium.

Fungal volatile organic compounds (FVOCs) contribution in olive oil aroma and volatile biogenesis during olive preprocessing storage

Abstract: The present paper reports on the impact of the microbial growth changes, occuring during fifteen days of cv. Chemlali preprocessing storage in different containers representing the common practice during olive processing (plastic bags, reticular bags, and plastic boxes), on olive oil quality. Next, the microorganisms of their microflora (Fungi) were isolated and identified and their effect on olive oil aroma and volatile biogenesis was evaluated by comparing the olive oil volatile profile versus fungal volatile organic compounds. HS-SPME technique was used for volatile component sampling. Virgin olive oil (VOO) chemical quality indices did not show major variations during storage. Olive oil contained novel volatile compounds that could enhance its flavor, but also contained some off-flavor compounds which could reduce its organoleptic characteristics and thus its quality. Results show that olive microflora can contribute to the biogenesis of olive oil volatiles and thus some genera could potentially be used to enhance olive oil aroma. Practical applications The present paper try to assess the potential contribution of fungi in the biogenesis of volatiles found in olive oil. The identification of microorganisms capable of producing volatile compounds would have a great impact; the diverse functions of Fungal volatile organic compounds (FVOCs) can be developed for use in potential biotechnological applications (biofuel, biocontrol, etc.) with greater market value. For olive oil industry applications, some fungal volatile organic compounds are useful for the control of postharvest plant disease; someothers should be explored due to their antioxidant properties. Application of some of the microflora members or even application of enzymes that these microorganisms produce and that contribute to volatile biogenesis could have much to offer in olive oil quality.

A comparative study of effects of extraction solvents/techniques on percentage yield, polyhenolic composition, and antioxidant potential of various extracts obtained from stems of Nepeta leucophylla: RP‐HPLC‐DAD assessment of its polyhenolic constituents

Abstract: In the present study, the methanol, chloroform, and hexane extracts were isolated from the stems of Nepeta leucophylla using maceration method, soxhlet extraction method, and ultrasonic assisted extraction method. These extracts were analyzed for their total flavonoids content (TFC), total polyphenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant potential using nitric oxide scavenging (NOS), DPPH˙ (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The results of percentage yield, TPC, and TFC for various extracts varied from 0.99 to 12.16%, 0.34 to 133.7 mg GAE/g DPE, and 20.21 to 282.74 mg RE/g DPE, respectively, whereas the results of antioxidant potential of TAC, FRAP, percentage inhibition of NO and DPPH˙ scavenging activity ranged from 0.11 to 40.74 mg AAE/g DPE, 4.41 to 148.65 mg Fe (II) E/g DPE, 1.29 to 35.56%, and 14.93 to 90.43%, respectively. Practical applications N. leucophylla is an important wild Himalayan aromatic plant. Traditionally, it is used for the cure of malarial fever and its leaves are consumed as herbal tea. It is also known to have antifungal and antibacterial activity. The present results indicate that the SEM is the best technique for the isolation of naturally occurring antioxidants (NOAs) using methanol as a solvent from the powdered stem of N. leucophylla. Our research findings also indicate that the various extracts obtained from the stem of N. leucophylla show high antioxidant potential (FRAP, TAC, NO, and DPPH˙ radical scavenging activity) and are rich source of different NOAs viz. polyphenolics, flavonoids, coumarins, steroids etc. These classes of NOAs are also well known for their therapeutic potential like antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. Hence, the stem of N. leucophylla may play a promising role in health benefits, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and functional foods development.

Stabilization of Black Soybean Anthocyanin by Chitosan Nanoencapsulation and Copigmentation

Abstract: To stabilize the color and the antioxidant activity of black soybean anthocyanin, the potential of nanoencapsulation and copigmentation was investigated. Anthocyanin was copigmented with sinapic acid and nanoencapsulated by the ionic gelation method. The stability of anthocyanin in terms of color and antioxidant activity was significantly improved by both nanoencapsulation and copigmentation (P < 0.05). The nanoencapsulation was more efficient in improving the antioxidant activity and the color stability of Anthocyanin at high temperature. In addition, the highest stability of anthocyanin was observed in the copigmented anthocyanin-loaded nanoparticles, in which half-lives and retention were more than 2.6 and 7.4-fold greater than those of nonencapsulated anthocyanin. These results suggested that a combination of copigmentation and nanoencapsulation could be an effective technique for improving the color and antioxidant stability of anthocyanin. Practical Applications Although anthocyanin of black soybean has diverse health-promoting properties, such as antioxidant, anti-obesity, and hypolipidemic effects, few studies have been conducted with black soybean anthocyanin. In this manuscript, to stabilize the color and the antioxidant activity of black soybean anthocyanin, the potential of nanoencapsulation and copigmentation was investigated. The result suggests that a combination of copigmentation and nanoencapsulation could be useful for improving anthocyanin stability in terms of color and antioxidant activity. Therefore, this strategy for stability of black soybean anthocyanin could be practically employed in the food and nutrition industry because it can improve not only visual color but also biological activity of anthocyanin-related products.

Phytochemical Profile, Antioxidant Properties and Hypoglycemic Effect of Chaya (Cnidoscolus Chayamansa) in STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to investigate the antidiabetic potential of aqueous chaya extract (Cnidoscolus spp.) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Compounds identified and quantified included flavonoids and phenolic acids, in addition to saponins and alkaloids, among others. Several new phenolic compounds (coutaric, vanillic, and rosmarinic acids, and hesperidin), saponins (phytolaccagenic and oleanolic acids, and hederagenin derivatives) and alkaloids (choline, trigonelline, and sitsirikine), were identified. In vivo studies showed that a 4-week chaya extract treatment (2% w/v) produced hypoglycemic effects not related with insulin secretion or with the inhibition of starch digestive enzymes, rather with a decrease in glucose absorption. Chaya extract was also helpful in reducing hyperlipidemia, which appears not to be related to pancreatic lipase inhibition. Nevertheless, the increase in urinary microalbumin concentration and the diuretic effect suggests possible alterations in renal function after long-term intake of aqueous chaya extract. Practical Applications Chaya infusions are widely used for diabetes control and this study confirmed hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects. In addition, new compounds were identified. Therefore, chaya extract can potentially be used to develop functional beverages.