The Nutritional and Bioactive Components, Potential Health Function and Comprehensive Utilization of Pomegranate: A Review

 Food Rev. Int. 2022

Pomegranate is native to the region between Iran and northern India, as well as cultivated in China with a large planting area and a variety of high-quality species. Pomegranate not only has delicious fruits and beautiful flowers, but it is rich in bioactive compounds with benefits to human health.The distribution and content of bioactive components in different organs and by-products of pomegranate have distinct characteristics. A variety of phenols, flavonoids, and triterpenoids exist in pomegranate peels and flowers, whereas the active ingredients in the leaves are mainly tannins. Arils and seeds are good sources of anthocyanins and unsaturated fatty acids, respectively. Pomegranate possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-cardiovascular, anti-pathogenic and skin care effects, among others. It is also widely used in food, health care, medicinal, and ornamental purposes. This review summarizes recent research progress on pomegranate, putting forward some innovative applications for the development and utilization of pomegranate resources. This review also provides a theoretical basis for the research and industrialization of pomegranate, as well as a reference for further development of pomegranate germplasm resources.

Hepatoprotective Mechanism of Ginsenoside Rg1 against Alcoholic Liver Damage Based on Gut Microbiota and Network Pharmacology

 Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2022, 5025237

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major public health problem worldwide, which needs to be effective prevention. Ginsenoside Rg1 (GRg1), a bioactive ingredient extracted from ginseng, has benefit effects on health. In this study, 11 potential targets of GRg1 against ALD were firstly obtained by network pharmacology. KEGG pathway enrichment showed that GRg1-target-ALD was closely related to Toll-like receptor (TLR) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways. In addition, GRg1 decreased antioxidant levels and increased oxidative levels in alcohol-treated mice, which alleviated oxidative stress-induced hepatic damage. GRg1 enhanced intestinal barrier function via upregulating the levels of tight junction protein and immunoglobulin A. GRg1 also reduced alcohol-induced inflammation by suppressing TLR4/NF-κB pathway, which was consistent with the prediction of network targets. Moreover, GRg1 altered GM population, and Verrucomicrobia, Bacteroidetes, Akkermansia, Bacteroides, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, and Alloprevotella played positive association with intestinal barrier indicators and negative correlation with hepatic inflammation biomarkers. The results suggest that GRg1 administration might be a promising strategy for protection of alcohol-induced liver damage.

Metabolomics approach reveals high energy diet improves the quality and enhances the flavor of black Tibetan sheep meat by altering the composition of rumen microbiota

 Front. Nut. 2022

This study aims to determine the impact of dietary energy levels on rumen microbial composition and its relationship to the quality of Black Tibetan sheep meat by applying metabolomics and Pearson's correlation analyses. For this purpose, UHPLC-QTOF-MS was used to identify the metabolome, whereas 16S rDNA sequencing was used to detect the rumen microbiota. Eventually, we observed that the high energy diet group (HS) improved the carcass quality of Black Tibetan sheep and fat deposition in the longissimus lumborum (LL) compared to the medium energy diet group (MS). However, HS considerably increased the texture, water holding capacity (WHC), and volatile flavor of the LL when compared to that of MS and the low energy diet group (LS). Metabolomics and correlation analyses revealed that dietary energy levels mainly affected the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids of the LL, which consequently influenced the content of volatile flavor compounds (VOCs) and fats. Furthermore, HS increased the abundance of Quinella, Ruminococcus 2, (Eubacterium) coprostanoligenes, and Succinivibrionaceae UCG-001, all of which participate in the carbohydrate metabolism in rumen and thus influence the metabolite levels (stachyose, isomaltose, etc.) in the LL. Overall, a high-energy diet is desirable for the production of Black Tibetan sheep mutton because it improves the mouthfeel and flavor of meat by altering the composition of rumen microbiota, which influences the metabolism in the LL.

Safer plant-based nanoparticles for combating antibiotic resistance in bacteria: A comprehensive review on its potential applications, recent advances, and future perspective

 Science of the Total Environment, 821, 153472. 2022

Background

Antibiotic resistance is one of the current threats to human health, forcing the use of drugs that are more noxious, costlier, and with low efficiency. There are several causes behind antibiotic resistance, including over-prescription of antibiotics in both humans and livestock. In this scenario, researchers are shifting to new alternatives to fight back this concerning situation.

Scope and approach

Nanoparticles have emerged as new tools that can be used to combat deadly bacterial infections directly or indirectly to overcome antibiotic resistance. Although nanoparticles are being used in the pharmaceutical industry, there is a constant concern about their toxicity toward human health because of the involvement of well-known toxic chemicals (i.e., sodium/potassium borohydride) making their use very risky for eukaryotic cells.

Key findings and conclusions

Multiple nanoparticle-based approaches to counter bacterial infections, providing crucial insight into the design of elements that play critical roles in the creation of antimicrobial nanotherapeutic drugs, are currently underway. In this context, plant-based nanoparticles will be less toxic than many other forms, which constitute promising candidates to avoid widespread damage to the microbiome associated with current practices. This article aims to review the actual knowledge on plant-based nanoparticle products for antibiotic resistance and the possible replacement of antibiotics to treat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.

Advances on Natural Abietane, Labdane and Clerodane Diterpenes as Anti-Cancer Agents: Sources and Mechanisms of Action

Molecules 2022, 27(15), 4791

Extensive research over the past decades has identified numerous phytochemicals that could represent an important source of anti-cancer compounds. There is an immediate need for less toxic and more effective preventive and therapeutic strategies for the treatment of cancer. Natural compounds are considered suitable candidates for the development of new anti-cancer drugs due to their pleiotropic actions on target events with multiple manners. This comprehensive review highlighted the most relevant findings achieved in the screening of phytochemicals for anticancer drug development, particularly focused on a promising class of phytochemicals such as diterpenes with abietane, clerodane, and labdane skeleton. The chemical structure of these compounds, their main natural sources, and mechanisms of action were critically discussed.

Essential oils nano-emulsion confers resistance against Penicillium digitatum in 'Newhall' navel orange by promoting phenylpropanoid metabolism

 Industrial Crops and Products, 187(A), 115297, 2022

Inducing natural resistance against pathogen infection in postharvest citrus by exogenous elicitor is a promising alternative to reduce postharvest losses. Here, the potential induced resistance mechanism of blended cinnamaldehyde, carvacrol and eugenol nano-emulsion against P. digitatum in ‘Newhall’ navel orange (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck) was evaluated through combined transcriptomic and metabolomics analysis. Application of nano-emulsion maintained fruit firmness after P. digitatum inoculation, nano-emulsion reduced H2O2 and MDA accumulation of citrus fruit, increased PAL, C4H, 4CL and CAD activity, and higher contents of flavonoids, lignin and total phenolic compounds. Furthermore, higher activities of SOD, CAT, POD and APX in nano-emulsion treated fruit possibly benefited reducing ROS accumulation and lipid peroxidation. The activities of the defense enzymes CHI, GLU were higher in the nano-emulsion treated fruits. RNA-seq identified 653 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the control and the nano-emulsion-treated fruit at 48 hpi, including 444 up-regulated and 209 downregulated genes. Genes encoding shikimate O-hydroxycinnamoyltransferase (HCT), caffeoyl-CoA O-methyltransferase (CCoAOMT), caffeic acid 3-O-methyltransferase / acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase (COMT), cinnamyl-alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) and peroxidase (POD) were differentially expressed by nano-emulsion treatment. In addition, 175 differential accumulated metabolites between the control and the nano-emulsion-treated fruit at 48 hpi also were identified, the different accumulated metabolites from phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway related with disease resistance including L-phenylalanine, caffeic acid, caffeoyl quinic acid, coniferyl alcohol, coniferaldehyde. The integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic profiling indicated that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were mainly involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway. Besides, the nano-emulsion significantly induced accumulation of primary metabolites including amino acids, soluble sugars, organic acids, lipids, sugar and alcohols. All these results indicated that blended essential oil nano-emulsion as an antifungal delivery system to induce resistance against P. digitatum infection of ‘Newhall’ navel orange by promoting phenylpropanoid metabolism.

The influence of phytochemicals on cell heterogeneity in chronic inflammation-associated diseases: the prospects of single cell sequencing

 The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 108, 109091, 2022

Chronic inflammation-associated diseases include, but is not limited to cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes, etc. Cell heterogeneity is a prerequisite for understanding the physiological and pathological development of cell metabolism, and its response to external stimuli. Recently, dietary habits based on phytochemicals became increasingly recognized to play a pivotal role in chronic inflammation. Phytochemicals can relieve chronic inflammation by regulating inflammatory cell differentiation and immune cell response, but the influence of phytochemicals on cell heterogeneity from in vitro and ex vivo studies cannot simulate the complexity of cell differentiation in vivo due to the differences in cell lines and extracellular environment. Therefore, there is no consensus on the regulation mechanism of phytochemicals on chronic diseases based on cell heterogeneity. The purpose of this review is to summarize cell heterogeneity in common chronic inflammation-associated diseases and trace the effects of phytochemicals on cell differentiation in chronic diseases development. More importantly, by discussing the problems and challenges which hinder the study of cell heterogeneity in recent nutritional assessment experiments, we propose new prospects based on the drawbacks of existing research to optimize the research on the regulation mechanism of phytochemicals on chronic diseases. The need to explore precise measurements of cell heterogeneity is a key pillar in understanding the influence of phytochemicals on certain diseases. In the future, deeper understanding of cell-to-cell variation and the impact of food components and their metabolites on cell function by single-cell genomics and epigenomics with the focus on individual differences will open new avenues for the next generation of health care.

Biological properties and potential of compounds extracted from red seaweeds

 Phytochemistry Reviews, 2022

Macroalgae have been recently used for different applications in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry since they do not compete for land and freshwater against other resources. Moreover, they have been highlighted as a potential source of bioactive compounds. Red algae (Rhodophyta) are the largest group of seaweeds, including around 6000 different species, thus it can be hypothesized that they are a potential source of bioactive compounds. Sulfated polysaccharides, mainly agar and carrageenans, are the most relevant and exploited compounds of red algae. Other potential molecules are essential fatty acids, phycobiliproteins, vitamins, minerals, and other secondary metabolites. All these compounds have been demonstrated to exert several biological activities, among which antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antimicrobial properties can be highlighted. Nevertheless, these properties need to be further tested on in vivo experiments and go in-depth in the study of the mechanism of action of the specific molecules and the understanding of the structure–activity relation. At last, the extraction technologies are essential for the correct isolation of the molecules, in a cost-effective way, to facilitate the scale-up of the processes and their further application by the industry. This manuscript is aimed at describing the fundamental composition of red algae and their most studied biological properties to pave the way to the utilization of this underused resource.

Fu Brick Tea Manages HFD/STZ-Induced Type 2 Diabetes by Regulating the Gut Microbiota and Activating the IRS1/PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway

 J. Agric. Food Chem. 2022, 70, 27, 8274–8287

The antidiabetic effects of Fu brick tea aqueous extract (FTE) and its underlying molecular mechanism in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mice were investigated. FTE treatment significantly relieved dyslipidemia, insulin resistance (IR), and hepatic oxidative stress caused by T2DM. FTE also ameliorated the T2DM-induced gut dysbiosis by decreasing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidota (F/B) ratio at the phylum level and promoting the proliferation of Bifidobacterium, Parabacteroides, and Roseburia at the genus level. Besides, FTE significantly improved colonic short-chain fatty acid levels of T2DM mice. Furthermore, the antidiabetic effects of FTE were proved to be mediated by the IRS1/PI3K/Akt and AMPK-mediated gluconeogenesis signaling pathways. Metabolomics analysis illustrated that FTE recovered the levels of 28 metabolites associated with T2DM to the levels of normal mice. Taken together, these findings suggest that FTE can alleviate T2DM by reshaping the gut microbiota, activating the IRS1/PI3K/Akt pathway, and regulating intestinal metabolites.

Application of Protein in Extrusion-Based 3D Food Printing: Current Status and Prospectus

 Foods 2022, 11(13), 1902

Extrusion-based 3D food printing is one of the most common ways to manufacture complex shapes and personalized food. A wide variety of food raw materials have been documented in the last two decades for the fabrication of personalized food for various groups of people. This review aims to highlight the most relevant and current information on the use of protein raw materials as functional 3D food printing ink. The functional properties of protein raw materials, influencing factors, and application of different types of protein in 3D food printing were also discussed. This article also clarified that the effective and reasonable utilization of protein is a vital part of the future 3D food printing ink development process. The challenges of achieving comprehensive nutrition and customization, enhancing printing precision and accuracy, and paying attention to product appearance, texture, and shelf life remain significant.

Lobularia libyca: Phytochemical Profiling, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity Using In Vitro and In Silico Studies

Molecules 2022, 27(12), 3744

Lobularia libyca (L. libyca) is a traditional plant that is popular for its richness in phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The aim of this study was to comprehensively investigate the phytochemical profile by liquid chromatography, electrospray ionization and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS), the mineral contents and the biological properties of L. libyca methanol extract. L. libyca contains significant amounts of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Thirteen compounds classified as flavonoids were identified. L. libyca is rich in nutrients such as Na, Fe and Ca. Moreover, the methanol extract of L. libyca showed significant antioxidant activity without cytotoxic activity on HCT116 cells (human colon cancer cell line) and HepG2 cells (human hepatoma), showing an inhibition zone of 13 mm in diameter. In silico studies showed that decanoic acid ethyl ester exhibited the best fit in β-lactamase and DNA gyrase active sites; meanwhile, oleic acid showed the best fit in reductase binding sites. Thus, it can be concluded that L. libyca can serve as a beneficial nutraceutical agent, owing to its significant antioxidant and antibacterial potential and due to its richness in iron, calcium and potassium, which are essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Nano-priming as emerging seed priming technology for sustainable agriculture—recent developments and future perspectives

Journal of Nanobiotechnology 20, 254 (2022)

Nano-priming is an innovative seed priming technology that helps to improve seed germination, seed growth, and yield by providing resistance to various stresses in plants. Nano-priming is a considerably more effective method compared to all other seed priming methods. The salient features of nanoparticles (NPs) in seed priming are to develop electron exchange and enhanced surface reaction capabilities associated with various components of plant cells and tissues. Nano-priming induces the formation of nanopores in shoot and helps in the uptake of water absorption, activates reactive oxygen species (ROS)/antioxidant mechanisms in seeds, and forms hydroxyl radicals to loosen the walls of the cells and acts as an inducer for rapid hydrolysis of starch. It also induces the expression of aquaporin genes that are involved in the intake of water and also mediates H2O2, or ROS, dispersed over biological membranes. Nano-priming induces starch degradation via the stimulation of amylase, which results in the stimulation of seed germination. Nano-priming induces a mild ROS that acts as a primary signaling cue for various signaling cascade events that participate in secondary metabolite production and stress tolerance. This review provides details on the possible mechanisms by which nano-priming induces breaking seed dormancy, promotion of seed germination, and their impact on primary and secondary metabolite production. In addition, the use of nano-based fertilizer and pesticides as effective materials in nano-priming and plant growth development were also discussed, considering their recent status and future perspectives.

Novel hydrophobic colorimetric films based on ethylcellulose/castor oil/anthocyanins for pork freshness monitoring

 LWT, 164, 2022, 113631

A novel hydrophobic colorimetric film was developed using ethyl cellulose (EC), castor oil (CO) and purple potato anthocyanin (AN) for pork freshness monitoring. The films with CO concentrations of 0% (control), 0.25%, 0.5%, 1% and 2% were developed and expressed as F0, F0.25, F0.5, F1 and F2. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that the five films had dense surface and porous internal structures. The F0.5 film exhibited the highest tensile strength (TS) value, optimal color stability, ability to prevent the leaching of AN. The limit of detection (LOD) value of the F0.5 film to ammonia gas was 1.04 μM. The color of F0.5 film turned from red to green along with the spoilage of pork. As a result, the film was expected to be a good colorimetric indicator of pork freshness for intelligent packaging.

Stability profiling and degradation products of dihydromyricetin in Dulbecco's modified eagle's medium

 Food Chem. 378, 132033 (2022)

Dihydromyricetin has shown many bioactivities in cell level. However, dihydromyricetin was found to be highly instable in cell culture medium DMEM. Here, the underlying degradation mechanism was investigated via UPLC-MS/MS analysis. Dihydromyricetin was mainly converted into its dimers and oxidized products. At lower temperature, dihydromyricetin in DMEM showed higher stability. Vitamin C increased the stability of dihydromyricetin in DMEM probably due to its high antioxidant potential.

A high-stable and sensitive colorimetric nanofiber sensor based on PCL incorporating anthocyanins for shrimp freshness

 Food Chem. 377, 131909 (2022)

A novel bilayer colorimetric film incorporating polycaprolactone (PCL) with clitoria ternatea Linn anthocyanin (CA) via electrospinning was designed. The PCL nanofibers layer acted as a protective layer against harsh environments as the strong hydrophobic with the WCA (water contact angle) values of 101.79°. The PCL-CA layer worked as an indicator for its significant color changes for pH. The sensitivity test verified the ammonia cycler reversibility of the nanofibers is promising for re-use packaging. And the PCL/PCL-CA film was characterized as suitable WVP (water vapour permeability), and the lower velocity of water penetrating. Moreover, higher elongation at break (240.431%), and color stability were achieved. Besides, the film exhibited the color change from pale-blue to yellow-green response as an indication of shrimp spoilage (21 h). These results suggested the potential application of the PCL/PCL-CA film for a reusable freshness sensor tool in food packaging.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Allium cepa var. Aggregatum Natural Extract: Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Properties

 Nanomaterials 2022, 12(10), 1725

The chemical content of plant excerpts can be efficiently employed to reduce the metal ions to nanoparticles in the one-pot green production method. Here, green production of silver nanoparticles (AC-AgNPs) is performed by means of Allium cepa var. Aggregatum (shallot) extract as a stabilizer and reducer. The shape, size, and morphology of resultant AC-AgNPs are examined by optical spectroscopy analysis such as UV for nucleation and coalescence processes of the AC-AgNPs. Through FTIR functional group is determined and through DLS size is defined, it was confirmed that metallic AgNPs were successfully synthesized through the green synthesis route, and these results agreed well with the results obtained in the XRD pattern along with TEM spectroscopy, where the TEM images confirm the formation of sphere-like nanostructures along with SAED analysis. The chemical characterization is performed with XPS; the obtained molecular species in the materials are determined from the energy profile. Antioxidant activity of AC-AgNPs versus DPPH substrate is carried out. Antibacterial activity is well established against Gram-negative and Gram-positive organisms. Cell viability is accomplished, followed by an MTT assay, and a cytotoxicity assay of AC-AgNPs on MCF—7 cell lines is also carried out. Highlights: (1). This study highlights the eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Allium cepa var. Aggregatum Natural Extract. (2). The synthesized AC-AgNPs were characterized by UV-VIS, FT-IR, XRD, TEM, and XPS. (3). The synthesized nanoparticles were well dispersed in nature and the size range of 35 ± 8 nm. (4). The anti-candidal activity of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles was evaluated against the following Gram-Negative organisms: Escherichia coli (E. coli), and the following Gram-positive organisms: Staphylococcus aureus strains. The biosynthesized AC-AgNPs showed enhanced antiseptic features anti both Gram-positive and negative organisms. (5). Besides, the in vitro cytotoxic outcomes of AC-AgNPs were assessed versus MCF-7 cancerous cells, and the reduction in the feasibility of cancer cells was established via MTT assay, which suggests potential biomedical applications.

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) essential oil: A review on its composition, biological, and pharmacological activities

Phytotherapy Research, 36, 2839-2851, 2022

Myristica fragrans (Houtt.) is an evergreen tree native to the Maluku Islands, Indonesia. M. fragrans kernel is extensively used in Indian traditional medicines to treat various diseases. Several studies attempt to compile and interpret the pharmacological potential of Myristica fragrans (Houtt.) aqueous and various chemical extracts. Thus, the pharmacological potential of nutmeg essential oil has not been reviewed phytochemically and pharmacologically. Therefore, the present study aimed to share appropriate literature evidence regarding the plant essential oil chemical composition and therapeutic potential of Myristica fragrans essential oil (MFEO). MFEO of leaf, mace, kernel, and seed were used worldwide as potential Ayurvedic medicine and fragrance. MFEO extracted by various methods and oil yield was 0.7–3.2, 8.1–10.3, 0.3–12.5, and 6.2–7.6% in leaf, mace, seed, and kernel. The primary chemical constituents of MFEO were sabinene, eugenol, myristicin, caryophyllene, β-myrcene, and α-pinene. Clinical and experimental investigations have confirmed the antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, anticancer, antimalarial, anticonvulsant, hepatoprotective, antiparasitic, insecticidal, and nematocidal activities of MFEO. It is the first attempt to compile oil yield, composition, and the biological activities of MFEO. In future, several scientific investigations are required to understand the mechanism of action of MFEO and their bioactive constituents.

Fruit Juice Industry Wastes as a Source of Bioactives

 J. Agric. Food Chem. 2022, 70, 23, 6805–6832

Food processing sustainability, as well as waste minimization, are key concerns for the modern food industry. A significant amount of waste is generated by the fruit juice industry each year. In addition to the economic losses caused by the removal of these wastes, its impact on the environment is undeniable. Therefore, researchers have focused on recovering the bioactive components from fruit juice processing, in which a great number of phytochemicals still exist in the agro-industrial wastes, to help minimize the waste burden as well as provide new sources of bioactive compounds, which are believed to be protective agents against certain diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. Although these wastes contain non-negligible amounts of bioactive compounds, information on the utilization of these byproducts in functional ingredient/food production and their impact on the sensory quality of food products is still scarce. In this regard, this review summarizes the most recent literature on bioactive compounds present in the wastes of apple, citrus fruits, berries, stoned fruits, melons, and tropical fruit juices, together with their extraction techniques and valorization approaches. Besides, on the one hand, examples of different current food applications with the use of these wastes are provided. On the other hand, the challenges with respect to economic, sensory, and safety issues are also discussed.

Recent Development in Antioxidant Peptides of Woody Oil Plant By-Products

 Food Rev. Int. 2022

As a critical and prevalent source of functional edible oils, woody oil plants with by-products that contain numerous accessible nutrients are widely farmed around the world. Researches on the peptide from plants have attracted the scientists’ interest in recent years. Novel antioxidant peptides from woody oil plant by-products were discovered, and the antioxidant properties in vitro, in vivo and in silico have been conducted. The species origin, manufacturing and purification processes, biological function researches of antioxidant peptides of woody oil plant by-products were described and refined in this review, which also demonstrated a potential mechanism combining antioxidant peptide intrinsic characteristics and activity screening. Moreover, this paper revealed their prospective role in the fields of medicinal agents, nutraceuticals and cosmetics.

Volatile Flavor Compounds of Pugionium cornutum (L.) Gaertn. Before and After Different Dehydration Treatments

 Front. Nutr., 2022

Pugionium cornutum (L.) Gaertn (also Pugionium) is a special Mongolian vegetable, belonging to the Cruciferous family, growing in arid and semi-arid areas of northern China, with a unique flavor and potential health benefits. This article aims to describe the profile of volatile flavor compounds in fresh and different dehydrated samples, establish the fingerprint, and identify the characteristic compounds. The fresh Pugionium sample and 3 kinds of dehydrated samples were analyzed. Headspace/gas chromatography-ion migration spectrometry (HS/GC-IMS) and solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME/GC-MS) were used for identification and relative quantification. HS/GC-IMS identified 78 compounds, whereas SPME/GC-MS identified 53 compounds. Principal component analysis (PCA), clustering analysis, and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were used as appropriate to investigate variations in volatile compounds among Pugionium samples and identify distinctive compounds. The first two principal components described 76.5% and 69.5% of the variance of the data from HS/GC-IMS and SPME/GC-MS, respectively. By clustering analysis, 4 kinds of Pugionium samples could be classified into four independent groups. The similarity between fresh Pugionium and natural dehydration Pugionium was higher than the other two dehydrated samples, indicating that natural dehydration can better preserve the flavor of Pugionium. Most aldehydes and alcohols increased following different dehydration procedures, whereas esters decreased, and the dehydrated Pugionium samples have more harmonious and less pungent aroma than the fresh Pugionium. PLS-DA model analysis revealed that the marker compounds (VIP scores > 1) discriminating the flavor of the four samples for HS/GC-IMS and SPME/GC-MS were 24 and 15 compounds, respectively, such as 2-phenylethyl isothiocyanate, 1-butene-4-isothiocyanate and other isothiocyanates, 2-propanone, nonanal, gamma-butyrolactone, 2,3-butanediol, 3-methyl-2-butenenitrile, and pentanal. Analysis of volatile compounds might be useful for monitoring the quality of Pugionium and guiding the cooking methods and processing technologies. More study is required to discover if the various volatile flavor compounds have biological or physiological impacts on nutrition.

The reciprocal interaction between polyphenols and other dietary compounds: Impact on bioavailability, antioxidant capacity and other physico-chemical and nutritional parameters

 Food Chem. 375, 131904, (2022)

Polyphenols are plant secondary metabolites, whose biological activity has been widely demonstrated. However, the research in this field is a bit reductive, as very frequently the effect of individual compound is investigated in different experimental models, neglecting more complex, but common, relationships that are established in the diet. This review summarizes the data that highlighted the interaction between polyphenols and other food components, especially macro- (lipids, proteins, carbohydrates and fibers) and micronutrients (minerals, vitamins and organic pigments), paying particular attention on their bioavailability, antioxidant capacity and chemical, physical, organoleptic and nutritional characteristics. The topic of food interaction has yet to be extensively studied because a greater knowledge of the food chemistry behind these interactions and the variables that modify their effects, could offer innovations and improvements in various fields ranging from organoleptic, nutritional to health and economic field.

Humic Acids Aggregates as Microheterogeneous Reaction Media: Alkaline Hydrolysis Reactions

 Compounds 2022, 2(2), 131-143

The influence of humic aggregates in a water solution upon the chemical stability under basic conditions of different substrates was reviewed. The kinetic behavior of each substrate was modeled in terms of a micellar pseudophase model.

Reactivity of a Recombinant Esterase from Thermus thermophilus HB27 in Aqueous and Organic Media

 Microorganisms 2022, 10(5), 915

The thermoalkalophilic membrane-associated esterase E34Tt from Thermus thermophilus HB27 was cloned and expressed in Kluyveromyces lactis (KLEST-3S esterase). The recombinant enzyme was tested as a biocatalyst in aqueous and organic media. It displayed a high thermal stability and was active in the presence of 10% (v/v) organic solvents and 1% (w/v) detergents. KLEST-3S hydrolysed triglycerides of various acyl chains, which is a rare characteristic among carboxylic ester hydrolases from extreme thermophiles, with maximum activity on tributyrin. It also displayed interfacial activation towards triacetin. KLEST-3S was also tested as a biocatalyst in organic media. The esterase provided high yields for the acetylation of alcohols. In addition, KLEST-3S catalyzed the stereoselective hydrolysis of (R,S)-ibuprofen methyl ester (87% ee). Our results indicate that KLEST-3S may be a robust and efficient biocatalyst for application in industrial bioconversions.

Genetic variability, combining ability and molecular diversity-based parental line selection for heterosis breeding in field corn (Zea mays L.)

 Mol Biol Rep 49, 4517–4524 (2022)

Background

The demand of maize crop is increasing day by day, hence to reduce the production and demand gap, there is a need to extract the high yielding parental lines to improve per se yield of the hybrids, which could help to enhance the productivity in maize crops.

Methods and results

The present investigation was carried out to select the best medium maturing inbred lines, among a set of 118 inbred lines. Based on the Duncan multiple range test, out of 118 lines, 16 inbred lines were selected on the basis of its high yield per se and flowering time. The molecular diversity was carried out using SSR markers linked to heterotic QTL and up on diversity analysis it classified selected genotypes in to three distinct groups. Among the selected inbred lines, a wider genetic variability and molecular diversity were observed. A total of 39 test crosses were generated after classifying 16 inbred lines in to three testers and thirteen lines (based on per se grain yield and molecular diversity) and crossing them in line × tester manner.

Conclusion

Combining ability analysis of these parental lines showed that female parents, PML 109, PML 110, PML 111, PML 114 and PML 116 showed additive effect for KRN and grain yield, whereas male parents, PML 46, and PML 93 showed epistatic effect for KRN and PML 102 showed epistatic effect for grain yield. The generated information in the present investigation may be exploited for heterosis breeding in filed corn.

Key messages

To tackle the balanced dietary requirement of Indian population; we focused to enhance the productivity of maize hybrids using genetically broad based, elite, diverse inbred lines. Combination of selection criterion, not only augment the productivity but also improves the quality of hybrid/s.

An Overview of Traditional Uses, Phytochemical Compositions and Biological Activities of Edible Fruits of European and Asian Cornus Species

 Foods 2022, 11(9), 1240

Cornus species are widely distributed in central and southern Europe, east Africa, southwest Asia, and America. Several species are known for edible fruits, especially Cornus mas and Cornus officinalis. These delicious fruits, characterized by their remarkable nutritional and biological values, are widely used in traditional medicine. In contrast to the other edible Cornus species, C. mas and C. officinalis are the most studied for which little information is available on the main phytochemicals and their biological activities. Fruits are characterised by several classes of secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, anthocyanins, tannins, triterpenoids, and iridoids. The available phytochemical data show that the different classes of metabolites have not been systematically studied. However, these edible species are all worthy of interest because similarities have been found. Thus, this review describes the traditional uses of Cornus species common in Europe and Asia, a detailed classification of the bioactive compounds that characterize the fruits, and their beneficial health effects. Cornus species are a rich source of phytochemicals with nutritional and functional properties that justify the growing interest in these berries, not only for applications in the food industry but also useful for their medicinal properties.

Effects of Torreya grandis Kernel Oil on Lipid Metabolism and Intestinal Flora in C57BL/6J Mice

Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2022, 4472751

Background

Recent experimental studies have shown that vegetable oil supplementation ameliorates high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress in mice via modulating hepatic lipid metabolism and the composition of the gut microbiota. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of the Torreya grandis kernel oil (TKO) rich in unpolysaturated fatty acid against hyperlipidemia and gain a deep insight into its potential mechanisms. Methods. Normal mice were randomly divided into three groups: ND (normal diet), LO (normal diet supplement with 4% TKO), and HO (normal diet supplement with 8% TKO). Hyperlipidemia mice were randomly divided into two groups: HFN (normal diet) and HFO (normal diet supplement with 8% TKO). Blood biochemistry and histomorphology were observed; liver RNA-seq, metabolomics, and gut 16S rRNA were analyzed. 

Results

Continuous supplementation of TKO in normal mice significantly ameliorated serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and free fatty acid (FFA) accumulation, decreased blood glucose and malondialdehyde (MDA), and enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels. According to GO and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis, most differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acid pathways, and significantly changed metabolites (SCMs) might be involved in the metabolism of lipids. High-dose TKO improved gut alpha diversity and beta diversity showing that the microbial community compositions of the five groups were different. 

Conclusion

Supplementation of TKO functions in the prevention of hyperlipidemia via regulating hepatic lipid metabolism and enhancing microbiota richness in normal mice. Our study is the first to reveal the mechanism of TKO regulating blood lipid levels by using multiomics and promote further studies on TKO for their biological activity.

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction of polyphenolic compounds from Paederia scandens (Lour.) Merr. Using deep eutectic solvent: optimization, identification, and comparison with traditional methods

 Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 86, 106005, 2022

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) coupled with deep eutectic solvent (DES) is a novel, efficient and green extraction method for phytochemicals. In this study, the effects of 16 DESs coupled with UAE on the extraction rate of polyphenols from Paederia scandens (Lour.) Merr. (P. scandens), an edible and medicinal herb, were investigated. DES synthesised with choline chloride and ethylene glycol at a 1:2 M ratio resulted in the highest extractability. Moreover, the effects of extraction parameters were investigated by using a two-level factorial experiment followed by response surface methodology The optimal parameters (water content in DES of 49.2%, the actual ultrasonic power of 72.4 W, and ultrasonic time of 9.7 min) resulted in the optimal total flavonoid content (TFC) (27.04 mg CE/g DW), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) value (373.27 μmol Fe(Ⅱ)E/g DW) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid radical (ABTS+) value (48.64 μmol TE/g DW), closely matching the experimental results. Furthermore, a comparison study demonstrated that DES-UAE afforded the higher TFC and FRAP value than traditional extraction methods. 36 individual polyphenolic compounds were identified and quantified by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) in P. scandens extracts, and of which 30 were found in the extracts obtained by DES-UAE. Additionally, DES-UAE afforded the highest sum of individual polyphenolic compound content. These results revealed that DES-UAE enhanced the extraction efficiency for polyphenols and provided a scientific basis for further processing and utilization of P. scandens.

Blockchain: An emerging novel technology to upgrade the current fresh fruit supply chain

 Trends in Food Science & Technology, 124, 1-12, 2022

Background

With the globalization of trade, the current fresh fruit supply chain now incorporates multiple entities, wide distribution, and intricate transactions. This brings about the issues of information tamper resistance, supply-demand relationship, and traceable supervision. Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology with advantages of tamper resistance of information. It is expected to solve the problem of transaction resource allocation among several untrusted participants in the fresh fruit supply chain.

Scope and approach

This article recommends the use of blockchain to upgrade the current fresh fruit supply chain, and highlights the advantages of blockchain in supply chain management. The obstacles faced by the implementation of this technology in relation to participants’ attitude, fruit preservation, and blockchain technical loopholes have been analyzed as well.

Key findings and conclusions

Blockchain can upgrade fresh fruit supply chain. It collects and uploads reliable data from fruit picking to final consumption through IoT-related technologies. After hash encryption and consensus verification, it is transmitted to P2P network for sharing. It balances the tension between supply and demand, brings funds for enterprises, simplifies supervision and traceability. Smart contracts reduce the cost of communication and trust. However, blockchain has some limitations such as difficulties in incorporating architecture, reliance on the IoT, immature fruit preservation technology, unclear legal supervision, lack of reference cases, and technical loopholes.

Anti-Depressant Properties of Crocin Molecules in Saffron

Molecules 2022, 27(7), 2076

Saffron is a valued herb, obtained from the stigmas of the C. sativus Linn (Iridaceae), with therapeutic effects. It has been described in pharmacopoeias to be variously acting, including as an anti-depressant, anti-carcinogen, and stimulant agent. The therapeutic effects of saffron are harbored in its bioactive molecules, notably crocins, the subject of this paper. Crocins have been demonstrated to act as a monoamine oxidase type A and B inhibitor. Furthermore, saffron petal extracts have experimentally been shown to impact contractile response in electrical field stimulation. Other research suggests that saffron also inhibits the reuptake of monoamines, exhibits N-methyl-d-aspartate antagonism, and improves brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling. A host of experimental studies found saffron/crocin to be similarly effective as fluoxetine and imipramine in the treatment of depression disorders. Saffron and crocins propose a natural solution to combat depressive disorders. However, some hurdles, such as stability and delivery, need to be overcome.

Natural Polyphenols for the Preservation of Meat and Dairy Products

 Molecules 2022, 27(6), 1906

Food spoilage makes foods undesirable and unacceptable for human use. The preservation of food is essential for human survival, and different techniques were initially used to limit the growth of spoiling microbes, e.g., drying, heating, salting, or fermentation. Water activity, temperature, redox potential, preservatives, and competitive microorganisms are the most important approaches used in the preservation of food products. Preservative agents are generally classified into antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-browning agents. On the other hand, artificial preservatives (sorbate, sulfite, or nitrite) may cause serious health hazards such as hypersensitivity, asthma, neurological damage, hyperactivity, and cancer. Thus, consumers prefer natural food preservatives to synthetic ones, as they are considered safer. Polyphenols have potential uses as biopreservatives in the food industry, because their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities can increase the storage life of food products. The antioxidant capacity of polyphenols is mainly due to the inhibition of free radical formation. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity of plants and herbs is mainly attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds. Thus, incorporation of botanical extracts rich in polyphenols in perishable foods can be considered since no pure polyphenolic compounds are authorized as food preservatives. However, individual polyphenols can be screened in this regard. In conclusion, this review highlights the use of phenolic compounds or botanical extracts rich in polyphenols as preservative agents with special reference to meat and dairy products.

Ethnobotanical and phytochemical aspects of the edible herb Coriandrum sativum L.

 Journal of Food Science, 87(4), 2022, 1386-1422

Coriandrum sativum (coriander) is an edible herb in the family Apiaceae. The leaves, fruits, and stems of C. sativum have long been used as culinary spice due to their favorable odor. Traditional practitioners used this plant for treating different diseases like blepharitis, scabies, aphthous stomatitis, laryngitis, headache, and palpitation. In modern researches, coriander has demonstrated anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, antimigraine, neuroprotective, analgesic, diuretic, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, hypotensive, anticancer, and antioxidant activities. Coriander contains a wide range of bioactive phytochemicals among which phenylpropenes, terpenoids, isocoumarins, phytosterols, and fatty acids are the most important. This review provides information about the botanical and ethnobotanical aspects, chemical profile, therapeutic uses in Islamic traditional medicine (ITM), and recent pharmacological studies of coriander effects. The results have shown that coriander and its monoterpenoid compound, linalool, can be considered as potential drug candidates for treating metabolic syndrome and different inflammatory conditions especially neural and CNS diseases.

Unravelling the immunomodulatory role of apple phenolic rich extracts on human THP-1- derived macrophages using multiplatform metabolomics

Food Res. Int. 155, 111037, 2022

Apples represent a significant source of dietary phenolic compounds with evidenced anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Nevertheless, the effect of the whole apple matrix on human macrophages is unknown. In this context, our study attempts to evaluate the effect of apple-derived phenolic compounds-rich extracts (pulp, peel and leaf) on IL-1β production in THP-1-differentiated macrophages and derived metabolic alterations through untargeted metabolomics. Our results have showed that apple pulp treatment inhibited the release of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β induced by LPS in THP-1 macrophages by ELISA analysis. Metabolomics demonstrate that different proportions of phenolic compounds led to differential alterations in the metabolism of THP-1 macrophages. Indeed, apple extracts promoted alterations in lipid, carbohydrate, amino acid and vitamins as well as cofactors metabolism. Specifically, leaf extracts were characterized by alteration of galactose metabolism while the extracts derived from the fruit showed predominant alterations in lipids metabolism. All extracts mimicked the response observed under normal conditions in LPS-stimulated macrophages, inhibiting LPS response. Thus, the phenolic enriched extracts from apples will be a good source of natural compounds with a beneficial effect against inflammation, and they may be applied as a food supplement and/or functional ingredient for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Morus alba L. (Sangzhi) Alkaloids Promote Insulin Secretion, Restore Diabetic β-Cell Function by Preventing Dedifferentiation and Apoptosis

 Front. Pharmacol.,  Sec. Ethnopharmacology, 2022

Background: 

Morus alba L. (Sangzhi) alkaloids (SZ-A), extracted from the Chinese herb Morus alba L. (mulberry twig), have been shown to ameliorate hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes and have been approved for diabetes treatment in the clinic. However, their versatile pharmacologic effects and regulatory mechanisms are not yet completely understood.

Purpose: 

This study explored the protective effects of SZ-A on islet β cells and the underlying mechanism.

Methods: 

Type 2 diabetic KKAy mice were orally administered SZ-A (100 or 200 mg/kg, once daily) for 11 weeks, and oral glucose tolerance, insulin tolerance, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance and hyperglycemia clamp tests were carried out to evaluate the potency of SZ-A in vivo. The morphology and β-cell dedifferentiation marker of KKAy mouse islets were detected via immunofluorescence. The effect of SZ-A on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion was investigated in both the islet β-cell line MIN6 and mouse primary islets. Potential regulatory signals and pathways in insulin secretion were explored, and cell proliferation assays and apoptosis TUNEL staining were performed on SZ-A-treated MIN6 cells.

Results: 

SZ-A alleviated hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance in type 2 diabetic KKAy mice and improved the function and morphology of diabetic islets. In both MIN6 cells and primary islets, SZ-A promoted insulin secretion. At a normal glucose level, SZ-A decreased AMPKα phosphorylation, and at high glucose, SZ-A augmented the cytosolic calcium concentration. Additionally, SZ-A downregulated the β-cell dedifferentiation marker ALDH1A3 and upregulated β-cell identifying genes, such as Ins1, Ins2, Nkx2.2 and Pax4 in KKAy mice islets. At the same time, SZ-A attenuated glucolipotoxicity-induced apoptosis in MIN6 cells, and inhibited Erk1/2 phosphorylation and caspase 3 activity. The major active fractions of SZ-A, namely DNJ, FAG and DAB, participated in the above regulatory effects.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that SZ-A promotes insulin secretion in islet β cells and ameliorates β-cell dysfunction and mass reduction under diabetic conditions both in vivo and in vitro, providing additional supportive evidence for the clinical application of SZ-A.

Simultaneous determination of ten nucleosides and bases in Ganoderma by micellar electrokinetic chromatography

 Food Science and Human Wellness, 11 (2), 263-268, 2022

Ganoderma (lingzhi) is a famous herbal medicine and edible supplement in oriental countries for a long history. In this study, a simple micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) method was established for the analysis of nucleosides and bases, the major bioactive components in Ganoderma for the first time. By optimizing the borate concentration, the sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) concentration and the pH value of running buffer, 10 nucleosides and bases achieved an ideal separation. In real sample analysis, the developed method was successfully used to determine the 10 target analytes in 23 batches of Ganoderma samples from different regions. Results indicated that contents of 10 investigated analytes in each sample showed obvious variation. The principal components analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) analysis classified the samples into three groups, and the HCA tree visualized the relationships which was mainly contributed by geographical partition. The results indicated geographical origin to be an important factor that affect the accumulation of nucleosides and bases in Ganoderma. In summary, this study provides a simple and practical strategy for quality assessment and cultivation reference of Ganoderma.

Antidiabetic Phytochemicals From Medicinal Plants: Prospective Candidates for New Drug Discovery and Development

 Front. Endocrinol., 2022

Diabetes, a chronic physiological dysfunction affecting people of different age groups and severely impairs the harmony of peoples’ normal life worldwide. Despite the availability of insulin preparations and several synthetic oral antidiabetic drugs, there is a crucial need for the discovery and development of novel antidiabetic drugs because of the development of resistance and side effects of those drugs in long-term use. On the contrary, plants or herbal sources are getting popular day by day to the scientists, researchers, and pharmaceutical companies all over the world to search for potential bioactive compound(s) for the discovery and development of targeted novel antidiabetic drugs that may control diabetes with the least unwanted effects of conventional antidiabetic drugs. In this review, we have presented the prospective candidates comprised of either isolated phytochemical(s) and/or extract(s) containing bioactive phytoconstituents which have been reported in several in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies possessing noteworthy antidiabetic potential. The mode of actions, attributed to antidiabetic activities of the reported phytochemicals and/or plant extracts have also been described to focus on the prospective phytochemicals and phytosources for further studies in the discovery and development of novel antidiabetic therapeutics.

Extraction of the wheat straw hemicellulose fraction assisted by commercial endo-xylanases. Role of the accessory enzyme activities

 Industrial Crops and Products, 179, 2022, 114655

Wheat straw is a highly promising raw material for bio-refinery strategies. Most of the literature related to lignocellulose fractionation focuses on cellulose purification and hemicellulose solubilization. Pre-treatments for hemicellulose solubilization without the formation of undesired products usually reach low extraction yields, which leaves an important hemicellulose fraction unused. In this work, we propose a mild process for the efficient extraction of the hemicellulose fraction of wheat straw assisted by partial enzymatic hydrolysis with three commercial endo-xylanase cocktails. A first step with alkali at 40 ºC helped to disrupt the lignocellulosic structure and removed 19% of lignin while maintaining most of the hemicellulose in the solid. The enzymatic step enabled reaching extraction yields of 59.8%, 51.9%, and 42.5% with Ultraflo L, Pentopan mono conc, and Shearzyme 500L, respectively. We also discuss the catalytic properties of each endo-xylanase, in particular, their adscription to the GH10 or GH11 glycosyl hydrolase family, and the relevant role of accessory enzymes.

Integrated Machine Learning and Chemoinformatics-Based Screening of Mycotic Compounds against Kinesin Spindle ProteinEg5 for Lung Cancer Therapy

 Molecules 2022, 27(5), 1639

Among the various types of cancer, lung cancer is the second most-diagnosed cancer worldwide. The kinesin spindle protein, Eg5, is a vital protein behind bipolar mitotic spindle establishment and maintenance during mitosis. Eg5 has been reported to contribute to cancer cell migration and angiogenesis impairment and has no role in resting, non-dividing cells. Thus, it could be considered as a vital target against several cancers, such as renal cancer, lung cancer, urothelial carcinoma, prostate cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, etc. In recent years, fungal secondary metabolites from the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) have been identified as an important lead source in the drug development pipeline. Therefore, the present study aims to identify potential mycotic secondary metabolites against the Eg5 protein by applying integrated machine learning, chemoinformatics based in silico-screening methods and molecular dynamic simulation targeting lung cancer. Initially, a library of 1830 mycotic secondary metabolites was screened by a predictive machine-learning model developed based on the random forest algorithm with high sensitivity (1) and an ROC area of 0.99. Further, 319 out of 1830 compounds screened with active potential by the model were evaluated for their drug-likeness properties by applying four filters simultaneously, viz., Lipinski’s rule, CMC-50 like rule, Veber rule, and Ghose filter. A total of 13 compounds passed from all the above filters were considered for molecular docking, functional group analysis, and cell line cytotoxicity prediction. Finally, four hit mycotic secondary metabolites found in fungi from the IHR were screened viz., (−)-Cochlactone-A, Phelligridin C, Sterenin E, and Cyathusal A. All compounds have efficient binding potential with Eg5, containing functional groups like aromatic rings, rings, carboxylic acid esters, and carbonyl and with cell line cytotoxicity against lung cancer cell lines, namely, MCF-7, NCI-H226, NCI-H522, A549, and NCI H187. Further, the molecular dynamics simulation study confirms the docked complex rigidity and stability by exploring root mean square deviations, root mean square fluctuations, and radius of gyration analysis from 100 ns simulation trajectories. The screened compounds could be used further to develop effective drugs against lung and other types of cancer.

Evaluation and Mathematical Analysis of a Four-Dimensional Lotka–Volterra-like Equation Designed to Describe the Batch Nisin Production System

 Mathematics 2022, 10(5), 677

Nisin, an antibacterial compound produced by Lactococcus lactis strains, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to be used as a safe food additive to control the growth of undesirable pathogenic bacteria. Nisin is commonly described as a pH-dependent primary metabolite since its production depends on growth and culture pH evolution. However, the relationships between bacteriocin synthesis (BT), biomass production (X), culture pH, and the consumption of the limiting nutrient (total nitrogen: TN) have not been described until now. Therefore, this study aims to develop a competitive four-dimensional Lotka–Volterra-like Equation (predator-prey system) to describe these complex relationships in three series of batch fermentations with L. lactis CECT 539 in diluted whey (DW)-based media. The developed four-dimensional predator-prey system accurately described each individual culture, providing a good description of the relationships between pH, TN, X, and BT, higher values for R2 and F-ratios, lower values (<10%) for the mean relative percentage deviation modulus, with bias and accuracy factor values approximately equal to one. The mathematical analysis of the developed equation showed the existence of one asymptotically stable equilibrium point, and the phase’s diagram obtained did not show the closed elliptic trajectories observed in biological predator-prey systems.

Thermochemical Characterization of Eight Seaweed Species and Evaluation of Their Potential Use as an Alternative for Biofuel Production and Source of Bioactive Compounds

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(4), 2355

Algae are underexplored resources in Western countries and novel approaches are needed to boost their industrial exploitation. In this work, eight edible seaweeds were subjected to their valorization in terms of nutritional characterization, thermochemical properties, and bioactive profile. Our results suggest that seaweeds present a rich nutritional profile, in which carbohydrates are present in high proportions, followed by a moderate protein composition and a valuable content of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. The thermochemical characterization of seaweeds showed that some macroalgae present a low ash content and high volatile matter and carbon fixation rates, being promising sources for alternative biofuel production. The bioactive profile of seaweeds was obtained from their phenolic and carotenoid content, together with the evaluation of their associated bioactivities. Among all the species analyzed, Porphyra purpurea presented a balanced composition in terms of carbohydrates and proteins and the best thermochemical profile. This species also showed moderate anti-inflammatory activity. Additionally, Himanthalia elongata extracts showed the highest contents of total phenolics and a moderate carotenoid content, which led to the highest rates of antioxidant activity. Overall, these results suggest that seaweeds can be used as food or functional ingredient to increase the nutritional quality of food formulations.