Phytochemical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities of different citrus juice concentrates

Vegan gummy candies with low calorie based on celery (Apium graveolens) puree and boswellia gum (Boswellia thurifera)

Gummy candy is one of the main snacks for children, and conventional samples with high calorie illustrate no nutritional value; therefore, the aim of present research was to develop functional product on priority. Celery (Apium graveolens) puree (25%-50%), boswellia gum (10%-20%), lemon essential oil (0.25%-0.50%), and sugar (10%-20%) in two levels were considered for vegan gummy candy production. Based on central composite design, the 30 types of gummy candies were prepared; afterward, response surface methodology was applied to optimize results determined by texture (hardness, springiness, adhesiveness, gumminess, chewiness, and elasticity characteristics), physicochemical attributes (pH, sugar content, water activity, antioxidant function, and calorie restriction), and also sensory evaluation. In general, elevated concentration of celery puree and boswellia gum-enhanced hardness, chewiness, and also gumminess for treated products. On the other hand, higher sugar with lemon essential oil improved adhesion, springiness, and elasticity features. More boswellia gum, celery, lemon essential oil, and reduction in sugar elevated water activity and also declined pH for treated samples. The celery puree, boswellia gum, and lemon essential oil significantly enhanced antioxidant function of treated gummy candies. According to attained results, sugar had a remarkable influence on acceptability and in treated samples calorie decreased. Based on all investigated factors, optimal formulation was achieved including 25% celery puree, 20% boswellia gum, 0.450% lemon essential oil, and 13.55% sugar. Regarding the results, obtained gummy candy with high nutritional value and low calorie demonstrated the potential to produce extensively in food sector.

Valorization of Peach Fruit and Wine Lees through the Production of a Functional Peach and Grape Juice

The valorization of agri-food products not only represents important economic and environmental benefits but can also be a source of potentially profitable, functional, and safe ingredients. This study aimed to valorize peach fruit and wine lees (WL) by producing functional juice. WL were incorporated at different concentrations (1.5 and 2%; w:w) in unpasteurized peach and grape juice and subsequently stored under refrigeration (5 °C). The antimicrobial activity of WL in peach and grape juices was assessed against Listeria monocytogenes and Saccharomyces cerevisiae as well as physicochemical, nutritional microbiological, and sensory acceptability. The maximum addition of WL to the juice (2%) showed a significant inhibitory effect against L. monocytogenes (4-log reduction) and increased the content of total soluble solids (TSS) (10%), total polyphenol content (TPC) (75%), and total antioxidant activity (AOX) (86%). During storage, AOX, TPC, TSS, pH, and titratable acidity (TA) remained stable. A significant correlation was observed between TPC and AOX. Total mesophilic aerobic bacteria and yeast counts increased during storage. Fifty-seven percent of tasters (n = 26) rated the functional juice positively. Thus, these agri-food products could be useful for producing functional juices with a longer shelf life, contributing to their valorization.

Immobilization of Rhodococcus by encapsulation and entrapment: a green solution to bitter citrus by-products

Debittering of citrus by-products is required to obtain value-added compounds for application in the food industry (e.g., dietary fiber, bioactive compounds). In this work, the immobilization of Rhodococcus fascians cells by encapsulation in Ca-alginate hollow beads and entrapment in poly(vinyl alcohol)/polyethylene glycol (PVA/PEG) cryogels was studied as an alternative to chemical treatments for degrading the bitter compound limonin. Previously, the Rhodococcus strain was adapted using orange peel extract to increase its tolerance to limonoids. The optimal conditions for the encapsulation of microbial cells were 2% Na-alginate, 4% CaCl2, 4% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and a microbial load of 0.6 OD600 (optical density at 600 nm). For immobilization by entrapment, the optimal conditions were 8% PVA, 8% PEG, and 0.6 OD600 microbial load. Immobilization by entrapment protected microbial cells better than encapsulation against the citrus medium stress conditions (acid pH and composition). Thus, under optimal immobilization conditions, limonin degradation was 32 and 28% for immobilization in PVA/PEG gels and in hollow beads, respectively, in synthetic juice (pH 3) after 72 h at 25 °C. Finally, the microbial cells entrapped in the cryogels showed a higher operational stability in orange juice than the encapsulated cells, with four consecutive cycles of reuse (runs of 24 h at 25 °C). KEY POINTS: • Increased tolerance to limonoids by adapting R. fascians with citrus by-products. • Entrapment provided cells with favorable microenvironment for debittering at acid pH. • Cryogel-immobilized cells showed the highest limonin degradation in citrus products.

High throughput biochemical profiling, and functional potential analysis for valorization of grape peduncles

Vitis vinifera L., commonly known as grape is a major fruit crop in the world. Grapes seem to confer health benefits due to their chemical components, biological and antioxidant activities. The present study is conducted to evaluate the biochemical constituents, antioxidant, and antimicrobial potential of ethanolic grape peduncles (EGP) extract. The result of phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of various phytochemicals such as flavonoid, tannin, carbohydrates, alkaloids, cardiac glycoside, phenol, steroid, terpenoids, quinones and anthraquinones. Furthermore, total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) were 7.35 ± 0.25 mg GAE/g (Gallic Acid Equivalent per gram) and 29.67 ± 0.13 mg QE/g (Quercetin Equivalent per gram) respectively. DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging assay revealed IC₅₀ = 159.3 μg/mL. The antibacterial and antifungal study disclosed that the extract was highly potent against Salmonella typhi with maximum zone of inhibition of 27.2 ± 1.60 mm and Epidermophyton floccosum with 74 ± 1.81% inhibition. The extract was analyzed for its cytotoxicity and antileishmanial activity and showed no activity against HeLa cell line and promastigotes of Leishmania major. Elements Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Cd were determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy and approximately 50 compounds were identified by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Current work suggest that grape peduncles can be a promising source of bioactive medicinal component.

Effect of citrus-coconut electrolyte blend on growth performance, haemato-biochemical status, organs development and intestinal morphology of broiler chickens

INTRODUCTION

In a bid to mitigate growing concerns regarding the use of antibiotics in food animals OBJECTIVES: This study determined the growth performance, haemato-biochemical status, organ development and intestinal morphology of Arbor Acre broiler chicken strain on oral administration of citrus-coconut electrolyte blend (CCEB) for 26 days.

METHODS

One-hundred ninety-two chicks were brooded for 2 weeks and thereafter divided on a weight equalization basis into four groups (0, 5, 10 and 15 ml CCEB per litre of water) of six replicates each and eight birds per replicate. Phytochemical screening of CCEB was determined, while data collected for growth performance, organ proportions and intestinal morphology were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance.

RESULTS

Phytochemical composition revealed the abundance of phenols (128.40 mg/100g) and tannins (78.10 mg/100g) in CCEB. All productive performance parameters measured were not significantly (p < 0.05) different across treatment means. However, significantly (p < 0.05) highest concentrations (134.47 and 66.48 mg/dl, respectively) for total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and the lowest concentration (38.34 mg/dl) for low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were recorded in birds on 15 ml of CCEB/litre of water. Furthermore, a progressive reduction (p < 0.05) in the bursa of Fabricius was observed with increasing CCEB/litre of water. The supplementation of CCEB did not influence (p > 0.05) duodenal morphological parameters.

CONCLUSION

The study concluded that 15 ml of CCEB/litre of water enhanced the production of HDL, reduced LDL, and improved immunity via the reduction of the bursa of Fabricius in broiler chickens.

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Metabolite Profiling of Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck Juice Extract Evaluated for its Antimicrobial Activity Against Streptococcus mutans

Purpose The present study aimed to determine the antimicrobial nature of Citrus limon juice extract against Streptococcus mutans and to identify its metabolic profile by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technique. Materials and methods The cariogenic bacteria S. mutans were procured from Microbial Type Culture Collection and Gene Bank (MTCC), Chandigarh, India, and revived on brain heart infusion (BHI) agar. The C. limon (L.) Osbeck fruits were authenticated from the University of Trans-Disciplinary Health Sciences and Technology (TDU), Bengaluru, India. The antibacterial property of lyophilized lemon juice extract (LJE) dissolved in methanol was evaluated against S. mutans (MTCC 497) by the agar well diffusion assay. GC-MS technique was employed to identify the volatile metabolite profile of the methanolic LJE sample. The metabolite masses of the respective compounds were identified using the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) library. Results The methanolic LJE sample concentration from 5 to 25 mg/ml did not demonstrate antimicrobial activity, while 30 to 100 mg/ml displayed antibacterial activity against S. mutans. Chlorohexidine (100 µg/ml) was used as the positive control, while methanol was used as the negative control. Significant antimicrobial metabolites were detected in the methanolic LJE sample by GC-MS analysis. Maleic anhydride, succinic anhydride, 6-Oxa-bicyclo[3.1.0] hexan-3-one, and 3-methyl-2,5-Furandione were the key metabolites identified in the methanolic LJE sample.  Conclusion The present study reports that C. limon is a potential candidate for the pharmaceutical industry as it possesses bioactive compounds demonstrating therapeutic properties. Further investigations are warranted to determine the individual and synergetic effects of identified metabolites in the methanolic LJE sample for its antimicrobial property. Special attention needs to be focussed on translational research for the development of anti-caries products from C. limon.

Innovative Processing Technologies to Develop a New Segment of Functional Citrus-Based Beverages: Current and Future Trends

The food industries are interested in developing functional products due to their popularity within nutritional and healthy circles. Functional fruit-based beverages represent one of the fast-growing markets due to the high concentrations of bioactive compounds (BCs), which can be health promoters. Hence, functional beverages based on citrus fruits are a potential way to take advantage of their nutritional and bioactive properties that could attract the interest of consumers. In order to ensure microbial and quality stability, the beverages are subjected to preservation treatment; however, the application of high temperatures leads to the loss of thermolabile BCs. Nowadays, innovative processing technologies (IPT) such as pulsed electric field (PEF), high-pressure processing (HPP), ultrasound processing (US), ohmic heating (OH), and microwave (MW) are a promising alternative due to their efficiency and low impact on juice BCs. The available literature concerning the effects of these technologies in functional fruit-based beverages is scarce; thus, this review gathers the most relevant information about the main positive and negative aspects of the IPT in functional properties, safety, and consumer acceptance of functional citrus-based beverages, as well as the use of citrus by-products to promote the circular economy in citrus processing.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Selected Fruit Juices

Fruit and fruit juices are a valuable source of bioactive compounds, which can protect our organisms from oxidative stress. The phenolic compounds and other phytochemicals may affect the antimicrobial properties of juices. The aim of this study has been to evaluate antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of selected berry juices and vitamin C-rich fruit juices. The research material was composed of seven juices, including three from berries (elderberry chokeberry, cranberry), three from vitamin C-rich fruit (sea buckthorn, wild rose, Japanese quince) and one exotic juice from noni fruit. Antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol, total flavonoid and total anthocyanin content were determined. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) as well as the minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) were evaluated. The research showed that fruit juices from wild rose, chokeberry and Japanese quince had the highest antioxidant capacity. These juices were characterised by the rich content of polyphenols. Elderberry and chokeberry juices had the highest total anthocyanins. The juices differed in the content of bioactive compounds and specific bactericidal properties against Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria. Fruit juices from cranberry, Japanese quince and sea buckthorn had the highest antimicrobial activity. Wild rose, chokeberry and elderberry juices, despite their high antioxidant properties, showed antimicrobial activity only against Gram-positive strains, except Enterococcus faecalis and Clostridium perfringens. Significant differences in the content of bioactive compounds in fruit juices affect the antimicrobial properties juices.

Polynesian medicine used to treat diarrhea and ciguatera: An ethnobotanical survey in six islands from French Polynesia

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In French Polynesia, many pathologies common or endemic to the territory cause diarrhea. This is the case for rotavirus gastroenteritis, salmonella food poisoning, ingestion of water contaminated by bacteria, and ciguatera. To treat these ailments, the population may employ traditional medicine for cultural reasons, geographical isolation, and poor health coverage. Polynesian remedies are often used without medical consultation and there is no data on their benefit-risk balance. A few ethnobotanical studies have been carried out in order to identify the traditional remedies used for various ailments, but few studies have focused on gastrointestinal pathologies. In this context, an ethnobotanical survey was carried out to identify treatments used for diarrhea and ciguatera, inventory the plants used, better understand the local representation of these remedies, and provide efficacy and safety data on these uses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From February to April 2021, a semi-structured survey was conducted on six islands in French Polynesia, including one island in the Windward Islands archipelago (Tahiti), three islands in the Marquesas archipelago (Hiva Oa, Nuku Hiva, Tahuata), and two islands in the Leeward Islands archipelago (Raiatea, Tahaa). A total of 133 people was interviewed including 34 specialists (of which 29 experts in herbalism).

RESULTS

These people mentioned the use of 27 plants for the treatment of diarrhea, and 24 for the treatment of ciguatera. Citrus aurantiifolia, Psidium guajava and Cordyline fruticosa were the three most cited plant species used for treating diarrhea, while Cocos nucifera, Punica granatum and Barringtonia asiatica were the most cited for ciguatera. A large majority of plants are widespread and introduced plants, which is congruent with the history of Polynesian people. While some plants are well known for similar uses (e.g. Psidium guajava for diarrhea, Heliotropium arboreum for ciguatera), others are less well known and may present toxicity risks (e.g. Barringtonia asiatica for ciguatera).

CONCLUSION

Traditional Polynesian medicine is an integral part of the local culture so important to be preserved and valued. However, more pharmacological and toxicological studies are still needed to determine the benefit-risk balance of some of these remedies and to allow their official integration into the Polynesian health system.

Preparation of a Novel Nanocomposite and Its Antibacterial Effectiveness against Enterococcus faecalis-An In Vitro Evaluation

The interest in the use of green-mediated synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) is shown to have increased due to their biocompatibility and reduction of overall production costs. The current study aimed to evaluate a novel nanocomposite (NC) prepared by using a combination of zinc oxide, silver and chitosan with lemon extract as a cross-linking agent and assessed its antimicrobial effectiveness against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis). The NPs and NC were prepared individually using a modification of previously established methods. Ananalys is of the physiochemical properties of the NC was conducted using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) (Shimadzu Corporation, Kyoto, Japan). and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging(HR-TEM; JEOL Ltd., Akishima-shi, Japan. The microbial reduction with this novel NC was evaluated by measuring the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) using a tube assay analytic technique. A time-kill assay analysis was conducted to evaluate the kinetic potential against E. faecalis at different time intervals. The novel NC showed a homogenous nanoparticle size under TEM imaging and under UV-Vis established an absorption range of 350−420 nm making it similar to its individual counterparts. The MIC and MIB were measured at 62.5 ± 20 mg/L (p < 0.05) and 250 ± 72 mg/L (p < 0.05), respectively. A time-kill assay analysis for the NC showed 5 h was required to eradicate E. faecalis. Based on the achieved results, it was seen that the novel NC using a combination of silver, zinc oxide and chitosan showed improved antimicrobial action against E. faecalis compared with its individual components under laboratory conditions. A complete eradication of 108 log units of E. faecalis at 250 mg/L occurred after a total of 5 h. These preliminary results establish the use of lemon extract-mediated silver, zinc and chitosan-based NC had an antibacterial effectiveness against E. faecalis similar to the individual counterparts used for its production under laboratory conditions.

Explore the antiproliferative phytocompounds from ethanolic extracts of Citrus paradisi against liver cancer cell line by chemical analysis using TLC and FT-IR spectroscopy

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the in vitro antiproliferative activity of ethanolic extract of leaves and fruits Citrus paradisi plant on HepG-2 liver cell lines by MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-terazolium bromide) assay and to isolate and characterize the antiproliferative compounds by TLC (Thin layer chromatography) and FT-IR (Fourier transforms Infrared) spectroscopy. Qualitative phytochemical screening tests were performed to detect phytochemicals compounds from the crude extracts. Antioxidant activity of the plant extracts were characterized by using DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging method. The results showed that antioxidant activity using DPPH were found to be increased in a concentration dependent manner and decreased cell viability and cell growth inhibition in a dose dependent manner. The findings from this study indicated that fruit extract exhibited good antiproliferation and antioxidant potential. The seven functional groups of phytocompounds such as carboxylic acid, amine salt, aromatic compounds, cyclic alkene, aldehyde, fluoro compounds and alkene were detected by FT-IR which indicated that fruit extracts of Citrus paradisi possessed vast potential as a medicinal drug especially in liver cancer treatment.

Effect of a Carotenoid Extract from Citrus reticulata By-Products on the Immune-Oxidative Status of Broilers

Although carotenoids generally possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, the in vivo synergistic action of carotenoid blends derived from plant-based by-products has not been thoroughly studied. Therefore, the carotenoid characterization and antimicrobial potential of Citrus reticulata extract as well as the impact of this carotenoid-rich extract (CCE) dietary supplementation on the performance, meat quality, and immune-oxidative status of broiler chickens were determined. One hundred and twenty one-day-old hatched chicks (Ross 308) were allocated to two dietary groups, with four replicate pens of 15 birds each. Birds were fed either a basal diet (CON) or the basal diet supplemented with 0.1% CCE (25 mg carotenoid extract included in 1 g of soluble starch) for 42 d. β-Cryptoxanthin, β-Carotene, Zeaxanthin, and Lutein were the prevailing carotenoid compounds in the Citrus reticulata extract. The CCE feed additive exerted inhibitory properties against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and negative (Klebsiella oxytoca, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium) bacteria. Both the broiler performance and meat quality did not substantially differ, while the breast muscle malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration tended to decrease (p = 0.070) in the CCE-fed broilers. The inclusion of CCE decreased the alanine aminotransferase and MDA concentration, and the activity of glutathione peroxidase, while the activity of superoxide dismutase was increased in the blood. Catalase and NADPH oxidase 2 relative transcript levels were significantly downregulated in the livers of the CCE-fed broilers. Additionally, Interleukin 1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) relative transcript levels were downregulated in the livers of the CCE- fed broilers, while TNF and interferon γ (IFNG) tended to decrease in the spleens and bursa of Fabricius, respectively. The present study provided new insights regarding the beneficial properties of carotenoids contained in Citrus reticulata in broilers’ immune-oxidative status. These promising outcomes could be the basis for further research under field conditions.

Anatomical and Physiological Responses of Citrus megaloxycarpa Lush.: a Cryptic Species of Northeast India

In the historical mysteries and present pandemic situation, the use of citrus fruits makes it rise high among other fruits. Citrus has a significant role in dietary and medicinal purposes from time immemorial and widely acknowledged for its therapeutic properties. Citrus megaloxycarpa Lush. is an unspecified sibling of the citrus family. The present work highlights the biochemical, antimicrobial, and anticancerous potential of cryptic species indigenous to Northeast India. The research was done on peel; P(L₁) and pulp; Pu(L₂) extracts of ripe large and peel; P(L₁) and pulp; Pu(L₂) extracts unripe small varieties respectively. The extract of the Pu(L₂) has the highest total soluble sugar (9.174±0.006741 μg/ml) whereas the extract of P(S₁) demonstrated high protein concentration (8.074±0.0567 μg/ml). The total carbohydrate content also varied in the extracts; the extract of P(L₁) showed (8.326±0.003844 μg/ml). P(L₁) have high free amino acid content (24.35±0.0225μg/ml) and high free fatty acid exhibited on P(L₂) (0.3739±0.05774 μg/ml). The total DPPH scavenging activity was compared for the extracts, where the extract of Pu (S₁) exhibits highest activity 73.80% and 0.6577 of logIC50 value. The highest total antioxidant capacity displays 150±0.333 in P(L₁). The MIC value was calibrated (30%, 35%, 40%, 45%) (v/v) and found to be maximum in P(L₂) (0.695) and minimum in P(L₁) (0.163) against Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli. MTT assay showed highest viability rate of 94.32% and toxicity rate of 8.56% achieved on mouse lung cancerous cell. It is quite obvious from the present research that Citrus megaloxycarpa Lush. has a great scope at industrial level for developing therapeutic drugs.

Green extraction of polyphenols from citrus peel by-products and their antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus

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Mandarin peel extracts inhibited the growth of A. flavus by up to 52% over 7 days.

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The MIC of mandarin extracts was 300-400 mg mL⁻¹ depending on the extraction solvent.

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Phenolic-rich SPE fractions showed 40% higher antifungal activity than crude extracts.

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Narirutin and hesperidin were most abundant phenolic compounds in mandarin extracts.

Aspergillus flavus is a pathogenic fungus associated with food safety issues worldwide. This study investigated the antifungal activity of citrus peel extracts prepared using food-grade solvents (hot water or ethanol). Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) peel ethanol extracts inhibited the mycelial growth of A. flavus (39.60%) more effectively than those of orange (32.31%) and lemon (13.51%) after 7 days of incubation. The growth of A. flavus could be completely inhibited by mandarin extracts at 300–400 mg mL⁻¹, depending on the extraction solvent. Solid-phase extraction (SPE) separated the polyphenol-rich fractions, which showed up to 40% higher antifungal activity than crude extracts. Twelve polyphenols (2 phenolic acids and 10 flavonoids) were identified by HPLC-DAD, narirutin and hesperidin were the most abundant. In conclusion, citrus peels are promising bioresources of antifungal agents with potential applications in food and other industries.

Antimicrobial screening of polyherbal formulations traditionally used against gastrointestinal diseases

Emerging antibiotic resistance has become a cosmopolitan problem and evoking researchers to search for new antimicrobials from natural constituents. The present study was intended to test the antimicrobial potential of traditionally used unexplored polyherbal recipes for curing digestive ailments. A total of 25 plants species were combined in different ratios to form 14 polyherbal recipes. After collecting and grinding plant parts, methanolic extracts of 14 polyherbal recipes were prepared by the cold maceration process. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of the polyherbal extracts was checked by agar well diffusion method at a concentration of 50 mg/ ml while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by serial dilution method. Polyherbal recipes B and D showed significant inhibition zone each against Vibrio cholerae (25.63; p < 0.001). Recipe G (23.33; p < 0.001) showed better efficacy against Escherichia coli. Recipe E and G significantly inhibited Proteus species (28.33; 24.33; p < 0.001). Recipe B was highly effective against Salmonella typhi. Recipe C, A and F had significant antifungal affect and inhibited Aspergillus nigar (28.67; p < 0.05), Aspergillus fumigatus (27; p < 0.01) Trichoderma (30; p < 0.001), Rhizopus (19.67; p < 0.01), and Fusarium graminearum (28.67;p < 0.001). Polyherbal formulations A, B, D, K, and N were active with the lowest concentration. MIC ranges within 3.12–25 mg/ml while minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) between 12.5 and 50 mg/ml. Polyherbal recipes’ A, B, D, G, K and N have enhanced antimicrobial potential with better efficacy than tested antibiotics and should be evaluated for further scientific validation.

Antioxidant, Anti-Obesity, and Anti-Aging Activities of Jeju Citrus Blended Vinegar

Various types of vinegars have been developed as interest in their health benefits has increased. In this study, we prepared Jeju citrus blended vinegars (CBVs) by mixing premature mandarin vinegar and mandarin vinegar, with mandarin vinegar used as a control. The physicochemical properties of the vinegars, including pH, total acidity, and sugar content was determined. Moreover, antioxidant, anti-obesity, and anti-aging activities of the vinegars were investigated. Physicochemical analysis revealed that the CBVs had a pH similar to that of mandarin vinegar, whereas CBVs with relatively high premature mandarin vinegar content showed higher acidity and lower sugar content (p < 0.05). Moreover, the antioxidant activities and phenol contents of CBVs were significantly higher than those of mandarin vinegar (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, CBVs showed significantly decreased intracellular triglyceride, lipid accumulation, and anti-obesity related gene levels (p < 0.05), thereby highlighting their anti-obesity activity. In addition, CBVs showed anti-aging activity by increasing cell viability and cell lifespan, while decreasing the expression of senescence-related genes under H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress. Therefore, CBVs may be useful as a functional food with antioxidant, anti-obesity, and anti-aging effects in various food fields.

Ribes himalense as potential source of natural bioactive compounds: Nutritional, phytochemical, and antioxidant properties

Ribes himalense Royle ex Decne. (family Saxifraaceae, subfamily Grossulariaceae, genus Ribes) is a wild berry fruit with illustrated health-promoting features, which widely distributed in Northwest China are deficiently exploited. This study aimed to assess the potential of a Ribes himalense as a source of natural bioactive compounds through characterizing its nutraceutical characteristics, phytochemicals properties, and antioxidant ability. Fresh berries were quantitatively analyzed for proximate composition, minerals, vitamins, amino acids, total polyphenols, total flavonoids, anthocyanins, procyanidin, and polysaccharides contents through China National Food Safety Standard; the characterization and identification of extracts of wild berries obtained with ethanol 30%, ethanol 50%, and ethanol 95% were firstly performed by UPLC-Triple-TOF-MS2. Furthermore, antioxidant activity of the ethanol extract was evaluated via different assay methods such as DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP. The results indicated that the most important bioactive composition was procyanidin (0.72%), polyphenols (0.49%), total flavonoids (0.38%), vitamin C (64.6 mg/100g FW), and K (218.44 mg/100 g FW), and a total of 95 compounds were detected with polyphenols, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins as the dominant, and also ethanol extract possessed stronger antioxidant activity. These results suggested that Ribes himalense fruit has great potential in protecting human health, with the focus on the development of functional products.

The antibacterial and antihemolytic activities assessment of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized using plant extracts and gamma irradiation against the uro-pathogenic multidrug resistant Proteus vulgaris

In the case of Proteus vulgaris infection, the increased occurrence of multidrug-resistance strains has become a critical challenge in the treatment of urinary tract diseases. Therefore, using plant extracts as eco-friendly antibacterial provides an attractive solution to battle bacterial infection. The current study investigates the antibacterial and antihemolytic activity of nine medicinal plant extracts against P. vulgaris. Citrus limon extract at 150 µg/ml exhibited the highest antimicrobial action against P. vulgaris (the inhibition zone diameter; 22.7 mm). Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are synthesized using the plant extracts of C. limon, Allium sativum, Sonchus bulbosus, Allium cepa, and Asparagus racemosus. The antibacterial activity of ZnO NPs synthesized using C. limon extract at 150 µg/ml is significantly increased (33.8 mm). ZnO NPs synthesized using A. cepa, A. racemosus, and C. limon plant extracts are effectively protective for human red blood cells. The ZnO NPs synthesized using C. limon extract are characterized using UV-Visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, and TEM. FTIR revealed that the plant extracts may serve as reducing and capping agents of ZnO NPs. XRD spectra confirmed the crystallinity of ZnO NPs. TEM image demonstrated the formation of spherical shapes of ZnO NPs with an average size of 37.05 nm. SEM of P. vulgaris cells treated with ZnO NPs showed cellular morphological damage compared to the untreated cells. ZnO NPs are synthesized by gamma irradiation as a clean and novel method. This study recommended the promising uses of the biosynthesized ZnO NPs using plant extracts as a natural, unique approach, to control the pathogenicity of P. vulgaris.

Evaluation of the Phenolic Content, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Oil and Non-Oil Extracts of Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck Seeds

The seeds of Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck (sweet orange) are waste products usually discarded. They may however contain phytochemicals that have potent bioactivities. In this study, the phenolic content, and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of oil and non-oil (solid) extracts of C. sinensis seeds were evaluated using standard protocols. The seed oil contained significantly (P>0.05) higher contents of total phenol and total flavonoid when compared to the solid extract. However, the non-oil extract contained significantly (P<0.05) higher tannin contents than the seed oil. Ferric reducing antioxidant potential was not significantly different between both extracts. The antimicrobial activities of both extracts revealed that the seed oil possesses better antibacterial activities compared to the non-oil extract. The antifungal test revealed that the seed oil significantly inhibited the growth of Candida albicans (20 mm zone of inhibition at a concentration of 200 μg/mL), however, it did not inhibit the growth of Aspergillus niger and Penicillum sp. The minimum inhibitory concentration values against the bacterial and fungal strains were similar for both extracts in the range of 50∼100 μg/mL. Minimum bactericidal concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration values ranged from 100∼200 μg/mL for both extracts. The results in this study indicate that C. sinensis seed oil and non-oil extracts possess antioxidant, and antibacterial and antifungal properties that may be differentially exploited in the development of antimicrobial agents.

Kinetic characterization of rat brain acetylcholinesterase modulated by lead and cartap: the ameliorative effect of Citrus limon fruit juice

Objectives Human exposure to heavy metals and pesticides is a worldwide major health problem. These environmental pollutants have been considered as the most neurotoxic agents and responsible to causing neurological toxicity. Plant-based therapeutic supplement may be used in the event of toxicity. Citrus limon contains several useful bioactive ingredients including flavonoids, dietary fiber, carotenoids, vitamins, pectin, minerals, and essential oils, which are responsible for its therapeutic potential. In the present investigation, we have studied the toxicity of heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and a carbamate pesticide such as cartap (Cp) on rat brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Methods The chemical characterization of C. limon involved determination of total antioxidants and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate free radical scavenging activity using known methods. The AChE activity and its kinetic characterization were performed by assaying the enzyme activity at varying substrate concentrations, pH, temperature, and time of reaction. Its different kinetic parameters such as K i , V max, K m , K cat, and K cat/K m were determined by using standard procedures. The amelioration potential of the extract was evaluated on the neurotransmission system of rat brain AChE treated with Pb, Cp, and their combination (Pb-Cp), considering their 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values. Results The optimal activity of rat brain AChE was recorded at 25 µg of protein, pH of 7.4, substrate concentration [S] of 0.5 mM, and temperature of 37.4-40°C. The enzyme was stable for 10 min when incubated at 37.4 °C in vitro. The enzyme displayed 70% of its activity remaining even after 160 min of incubation in this condition. It may be stable up to 1 month when stored at -20°C. The IC50 values for Pb, Cp, and Pb-Cp were found to be 75, 2.9, and 5 mM, respectively. Pb, Cp, and Pb-Cp inhibited the activity of rat brain AChE in the noncompetitive, mixed, and uncompetitive manners, respectively, with their respective K i values to be 675, 2.37, and 22.72 mM. Conclusions The results indicated that the Pb and Cp were able to cause significant alterations in the level and properties of AChE. However, the introduction of lemon juice on Pb- and Cp-treated AChE indicated protection of its activity from their adverse effects. The results may be useful in prospective therapeutic applications of lemon juice or as a food supplement to protect mammalian systems from adverse effects of these toxicants.

A review of the antimicrobial potential of herbal drugs used in popular Italian medicine (1850s-1950s) to treat bacterial skin diseases

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Before the advent of modern antibiotics, microbial infections were treated with herbal medicine or cauterization. Literature from the latter half of the nineteenth to the early mid-twentieth century, when antibiotics became widely available, arguably holds the most progressive information about herbal remedies to treat bacterial skin diseases. The corpus of literature produced in Italy during that period is not easily accessible and mostly out of print.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Plant-based remedies utilized in popular Italian medicine to treat anthrax, boils, erysipelas, impetigo, pustules, and whitlow were sourced from literature indexed in and available through the National Library Service website of the Italian Libraries Network. The remedies are assessed for their antimicrobial potential based on a detailed search of the herbal drug species in scientific databases.

RESULTS

A considerable part of the reviewed recipes included specific excipients (41 out of 139) and others were produced with fresh plant material (48 out of 139). Out of the 52 identified herbal drug species used in popular Italian medicine against dermatologic infections, extracts of 43 were shown to have moderate in vitro activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

CONCLUSION

The antibacterial activity of the extracts and pure compounds as reported in the reviewed literature is mostly based on in vitro assays and generally does not encourage follow up studies. The effectiveness of the reported recipes, which include fresh plant material and excipients can only be assessed through in vivo studies. Those remedies including herbal drugs with reported antimicrobial activity might have the potential as complementary therapies. The reviewed plant based antimicrobial recipes might serve as inspirations in the search for alternative topical antibacterial strategies and the search for their synergistic and potentiating ingredients.

Citrus Essential Oils (CEOs) and Their Applications in Food: An Overview

Citrus is a genus belonging to the Rutaceae family and includes important crops like orange, lemons, pummelos, grapefruits, limes, etc. Citrus essential oils (CEOs) consist of some major biologically active compounds like α-/β-pinene, sabinene, β-myrcene, d-limonene, linalool, α-humulene, and α-terpineol belonging to the monoterpenes, monoterpene aldehyde/alcohol, and sesquiterpenes group, respectively. These compounds possess several health beneficial properties like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, etc., in addition to antimicrobial properties, which have immense potential for food applications. Therefore, this review focused on the extraction, purification, and detection methods of CEOs along with their applications for food safety, packaging, and preservation. Further, the concerns of optimum dose and safe limits, their interaction effects with various food matrices and packaging materials, and possible allergic reactions associated with the use of CEOs in food applications were briefly discussed, which needs to be addressed in future research along with efficient, affordable, and "green" extraction methods to ensure CEOs as an ecofriendly, cost-effective, and natural alternative to synthetic chemical preservatives.

Fruits

Fruits come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and flavors. This chapter will cover selected fruits that are known to be healthy and highly nutritious. These fruits were chosen due to their common usage and availability. Since it is not possible to cover all health benefits or essential nutrients and important phytochemicals of the fruit composition, this chapter will focus on the key valuable constituents and their potential health effects.

Thiamine deficiency and oxidative stress induced by prolonged metronidazole therapy can explain its side effects of neurotoxicity and infertility in experimental animals: Effect of grapefruit co-therapy

We aimed to explore the possible neurotoxicity and infertility mechanisms of prolonged metronidazole (MTZ) use and the effects of antioxidant grapefruit (GP) co-therapy on MTZ-induced complications. Sixty male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n = 15 each). Group I (control group) received 1% dimethyl sulfoxide (27 ml/ kg/day), group II (MTZ group) received MTZ (400 mg/kg/day), group III (MTZ + GP) received MTZ (400 mg/kg/ day) plus GP juice (27 ml/kg/ day) and group IV (GP group) received GP juice (27 ml/kg) for 60 days. Semen analyses were performed. Free testosterone, gonadotrophin (follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone) and thiamine levels were measured. Samples of cerebellar, testicular and epididymal tissues were used for both colorimetric assays of oxidative stress markers and histopathological examinations. Significant decreases in the sperm count, percent total sperm motility, serum thiamine levels, free testosterone levels and FSH levels were observed in the MTZ and MTZ + GP groups (p < 0.05 for all parameters). Significantly higher oxidative stress levels (p < 0.05) were observed in the cerebellar and testicular tissue homogenates of these groups than in those of the control group, and associated disruptions in the cerebellar, testicular and epididymal structures were apparent compared to those of the control group. Although the GP group showed a significantly higher sperm count and significantly lower oxidative stress than the control group (p < 0.05), with histological similarity to the control group, the GP group exhibited significantly higher prolactin levels and lower free testosterone and FSH levels than the control group (p < 0.05). Oxidative stress and decreased thiamine levels could explain the MTZ-induced neurotoxicity and infertility side effects that aggravated by GP co-administration.

A Square Wave Voltammetry Study on the Antioxidant Interaction and Effect of Extraction Method for Binary Fruit Mixture Extracts

Square wave voltammetry (SWV) analysis was used to assess the antioxidant interactions (synergism, addition, and antagonism) of fruit mixture extracts from grape (G), lemon (L), and blueberry (B) obtained by conventional extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and high hydrostatic pressure extraction. The experimental results showed antagonistic antioxidant effects in all binary mixture extracts (L-G, L-B, and G-B). In DPPH and FRAP assays, the greatest antioxidant capacity was found in the G-B mixture (108.7 and 108.8 μmol TE g−1 dry extract, respectively) obtained by high hydrostatic pressure extraction; however, there were no significant differences when measured by ultrasound-assisted extraction. For TPC and TFC assays, the greatest values were for G-B (6.67 mg GA g−1 dry extract) and L-G (1.63 mg QE g−1 dry extract), respectively. SWV experiments showed antagonistic behavior in the mixtures. Among the different ratios of the fruit mixture extracts evaluated by SWV, 1 : 1 (w/w) combination showed the greatest antagonistic antioxidant effects. SWV suggests the components of the mixture with the highest antioxidant capacity oxidize after mixing. The results indicate that the presence of natural bioactive antioxidants in fruit mixtures does not guarantee that the interactions are synergistic.

Histoprotective Effect of Essential Oil from Citrus aurantifolia in Testosterone-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Rat

BACKGROUND

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common urological disorder reported among ageing men.

OBJECTIVE

The study assessed histoprotective effect of lime essential oil (LEO) in a rat model of testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and evaluated its ability to reverse testosterone-mediated changes in the testis, kidney, and liver.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult Sprague Dawley (aged 12 weeks, 240-390 g) male rats were intramuscularly injected with testosterone enanthate (TE) (10 mg/kg) reconstituted in olive oil for ten days to establish benign prostatic hyperplasia (serum PSA level ≥ 1.24 ng/ml) in. After confirmation of BPH (sustained serum PSA level ≥ 1.24 ng/ml), rats in all groups (LEO: 30, 100, and 300 mg/kg, po, n = 6; finasteride: 15 mg/kg, po, n = 6) except model (BPH without treatment) and sham (no BPH and no treatment) groups were treated for 21 days. At the end of treatment, rats were anesthetised and blood was collected via cardiac puncture to determine serum PSA and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels. The prostate gland, testis, kidney, and liver were harvested, weighed, histologically processed and stained with H&E.

RESULTS

LEO- and finasteride-treated groups recorded lesser mean prostatic weights relative to their model group. Baseline mean serum PSA level of LEO- and finasteride-treated groups reduced significantly (p < 0.05) relative to model group. Serum TAC levels were also higher in LEO- and finasteride-treated groups relative to model group. LEO-treated groups had less thickened glandular epithelium, smaller acini, fewer prostatic secretions and more fibromuscular stroma relative to model group. LEO and finasteride treatment produced improved histomorphological characteristics of testis, kidney, and liver compared to model group.

CONCLUSION

By the current results, Citrus aurantifolia LEO may possess active agents that can be explored for translational medicine against BPH.

Antioxidant effect of Kimchi supplemented with Jeju citrus concentrate and its antiobesity effect on 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Citrus is cultivated throughout Jeju Island and is thought to possess some medicinal properties. Citrus concentrate is the most extensively utilized form of citrus in the food industry. In this study, antioxidant and antiobesity effects of Kimchi supplemented with citrus concentrate were investigated. Prepared Kimchi was infused with 7% citrus concentrate (CK) and freeze-dried for analysis. Normal Kimchi (NK) without citrus concentrate was utilized as a control. Total phenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activities were examined. Cytotoxicity, intracellular triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) levels in 3T3-L1 adipocytes were also measured. Additionally, the inhibitory effects on lipid accumulation were trialed by measuring the oil-red O (ORO)-stained cells. TPC, TFC, and antioxidant activities of CK were significantly higher than those of NK (p < .05). CK showed less cytotoxicity and attenuated the lipid accumulation at all concentrations by reducing TG and TC levels compared to NK. The inhibitory effect of CK on lipid accumulation was observed via reducing ORO-stained lipid droplets. Consequently, the antioxidant and antiobesity effects of CK were revealed in vitro. Furthermore, the addition of citrus may provide competitive price due to low production costs as well as health functionality.

The monitoring of biogenic amines in the raw food

The aim of this work was to evaluate microbial quality and the presence of biogenic amines in raw bars. This study was focused on microbiological research in order to determine the presence of selected indicator groups of microorganisms depending on the composition of raw food. Identification of microorganisms was carried out by MALDI-TOF MS. In the second part of the experiment, biogenic amines and polyamines were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography with UV/VIS detection. An increased incidence of mold has been reported in the samples, which is associated with a risk of mycotoxin production. After identifying microorganisms, it was found out that genera Micrococcus, Bacillus and Staphylococcus were the most represented. The highest concentration of biogenic amines (tyramine 42.2 ±4.8 mg.kg-1; putrescine 54.0 ±2.9 mg.kg-1) was found in a sample containing the vegetable component. The average concentration of biogenic amines in the tested raw bars was <30 mg.kg-1 and therefore they do not pose a serious health hazard to a consumer.

Effect of Acute Ingestion of Green Tea Extract and Lemon Juice on Oxidative Stress and Lipid Profile in Pigs Fed a High-Fat Diet

Green tea and its catechins have been shown to ameliorate high fat diet-induced oxidative stress and hyperlipidemia. However, low bioavailability of catechins limits their therapeutic potential. Lemon juice (LJ) has been suggested to enhance the bioavailability of catechins in vitro. This study investigated the antioxidative and hypolipidemic efficacy of a single dose of green tea extract (GTE) or GTE plus LJ (GTE + LJ) in high-fat diet fed pigs. Sixteen pigs ingested a single dose of GTE (190 mg/kg/day) or GTE + LJ (0.75 mL/kg/day) mixed with low-fat (LF; 5% fat) or high-fat (HF; 22% fat) diets and blood samples were collected for 24 h. Plasma catechin level peaked at two hours, and gradually returned to baseline after six hours following the intake. The addition of LJ significantly increased plasma catechin level. The diet containing GTE did not lower plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol (TG) concentrations, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity, or malondialdehyde concentration in 24 h in HF-fed pigs. Addition of a single dose of LJ, however, significantly decreased plasma TG level in LF groups but did not cause further changes on any other markers compared to the GTE alone. Our findings indicate limited effect of a single meal containing GTE on plasma antioxidant enzymes, lipid profile, and lipid peroxidation in pigs and no significant synergistic/additive action of adding LJ to GTE within 24 h in pigs. A study with a longer treatment period is warranted to further understand the potential role of GTE in reducing HF diet-induced oxidative stress and the possible synergistic role of LJ.

The Potential Use of Grape Phytochemicals for Preventing the Development of Intestine-Related and Subsequent Inflammatory Diseases

BACKGROUND

Grape phytochemicals prevent intestine-related and subsequent other inflammatory diseases. Phytochemicals and vitamin D are useful for the regulation of inflammatory responses. Phytochemicals is the generic name for terpenoids, carotenoids, and flavonoids that consist of a variety of chemicals contained in vegetables and fruits. There are a variety of grape cultivars that contain many kinds of phytochemicals in their skin and seeds. Grape phytochemicals including Grape Seed Extracts (GSE) have already been used to maintain healthy condition through manipulating inflammatory responses by decreasing the expression of inflammation-related factors.

DISCUSSION

Grape phytochemicals mainly consist of a variety of chemicals that include terpenoid (oleanolic acid), carotenoids (β-carotene, lutein), and flavonoids: flavon-3-ols (quercetin), flavan-3-ols (catechins), anthocyanins, oligomers and polymers (tannins and proanthocyanidins), and resveratrol. Phytochemicals improve the dysbiosis (gut microbiota complication) induced by metabolic syndrome and regulate inflammatory diseases induced by TNF-α production. Once absorbed, flavonoids change into glucuronide-form, move into the bloodstream and reach the inflammatory sites including liver, lung, and sites of arteriosclerosis, where they become active. Furthermore, oleanolic acid acts on TGR5 - the cholic acid receptor, as an agonist of cholic acid. These anti-inflammatory effects of phytochemicals have been proven by the experimental animal studies and the clinical trials.

CONCLUSION

It is expected the new health food products will be created from grape skins and seeds since grape phytochemicals participate in the prevention of inflammatory diseases like intestine-related inflammatory diseases.

The Influence of Ultrafiltration of Citrus limon L. Burm. cv Femminello Comune Juice on Its Chemical Composition and Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic Properties

Membrane separation has brought about a significant change in the food processing industry because it could operate separation at low temperature without a reduction of nutrients and bioactive compounds. Citrus limon L. Burm. cv Femminello comune juice, an Italian IGP (Protected Geographical Indication) product, was subjected to the ultrafiltation (UF) process using a cellulose acetate membrane, with a cut-off of 100 kDa, subjected to different transmembrane pressures (TMP, 05–1.5 bar). Untreated and ultra-filtrated (UF) juices were investigated for physicochemical parameters including pH, titratable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS) and ascorbic acid content. Total phenols (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) contents were also determined. Rutin, hesperidin, eriocitrin, and neohesperidin were selected as markers and quantified by HPLC. Antioxidant potential was investigated by using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP tests. RACI was used to identify the sample with highest antioxidant potential. The hypoglycemic activity was examined using carbohydrates hydrolyzing enzymes assay. The application of increasing pressures across the membrane led to a reduction in TSS without causing a loss of bioactive compounds in terms of TPC and TFC. UF juice obtained with TMP of 1.5 bar (J3) showed a significant amount of eriocitrin and hesperidin with concentrations of 15.8 and 10.5 mg/100 mL, respectively. This sample showed the highest antioxidant potential and exhibited a promising α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ values of 31.1 and 35.3 mg/mL, respectively. Collectively our results support the use of cellulose acetate membrane to obtain an ultra-filtered juice with significant health potential.

Antimicrobial efficacy of alternative compounds for use in oral care toward biofilms from caries-associated bacteria in vitro

For caries‐active patients, antimicrobial measures may be useful in addition to mechanical biofilm removal. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of alternative compounds for use in oral care from two main categories (i.e., preservatives and natural compounds) toward biofilms from caries‐associated bacteria as compared to oral care gold‐standards chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX), cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), and zinc. Compounds were screened in initial Streptococcus mutans biofilms. Then, the most effective compounds were further investigated in mature S. mutans and polymicrobial biofilms comprising Actinomyces naeslundii, Actinomyces odontolyticus, and S. mutans. Here, distinct treatment periods and concentrations were evaluated. Biofilms were visualized by scanning electron microscopy and bacterial membrane damage was evaluated by means of flow cytometry and staining with SYBR Green and propidium iodide. Citrus extract was the only compound exhibiting similar antimicrobial efficacy in initial S. mutans biofilms (>5 log₁₀) as compared to CHX and CPC, but its effect was clearly inferior in mature S. mutans and polymicrobial biofilms. Flow cytometric data suggested that the mechanism of antimicrobial action of citrus extract may be based on damage of bacterial membranes similar to CHX and CPC. From all alternative compounds investigated in this study, citrus extract exhibited the highest antimicrobial efficacy toward in vitro biofilms from caries‐associated bacteria, but still was less effective than oral care gold‐standard antiseptics CHX and CPC. Nevertheless, citrus extract may be a valuable antimicrobial compound for use in oral care for caries‐active patients.

Key lime (Citrus aurantifolia) inhibits the growth of triple drug resistant Helicobacter pylori

Background

Eradication rate for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) has decreased due to antibiotic resistance. Therefore, new strategies are needed to enhance H. pylori eradication, especially for H. pylori with high antibiotic resistance. The objective of this study was to evaluate anti-H. pylori activities of constituents from key lime (Citrus aurantifolia) and their possible inhibitory effects on urease activity of H. pylori.

Methods

Helicobacter pylori strain ATCC 43526 and triple drug resistant (TDR) H. pylori strains were used in this study. Urease activities of H. pylori strains were measured by ammonia colorimetrical quantification using ELISA reader. Minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined by agar dilution method for antibiotics and by modified media dilution method for each constituent of Citrus aurantifolia (C. aurantifolia).

Results

Citrus aurantifolia extract decreased the number of colonies of H. pylori strain ATCC 43526 and TDR H. pylori stains. An increasing concentration of C. aurantifolia extract attenuated urease activities of H. pylori strain ATCC 43526 and TDR H. pylori strains. Among constituents of C. aurantifolia, citral and 4-hexen-3-one were found to be able to inhibit the growth of H. pylori strain ATCC 43526 and TDR H. pylori strains. Furthermore, citral and 4-hexen-3-one inhibited urease activities of H. pylori strain ATCC 43526 and TDR H. pylori strains in a dose-dependent manner.

Conclusion

Citrus aurantifolia has antimicrobial effect on TDR H. pylori strains, suggesting that C. aurantifolia might have therapeutic potential to control antibiotic-resistant H. pylori strains that cause eradication failure using other antibiotics.

Rapid screening and quantification of major organic acids in citrus fruits and their bioactivity studies

Organic acids (OAs) are small non-volatile molecules with widespread usage in processed foods, feeds and instant beverages. The prime aim of this study was to explore major OAs in local citrus fruits (Citrus limetta, Citrus aurantifolia, Citrus nobilis, Citrus karna, Citrus medica, Citrus ichangensis and Citrus aurantium) and assessment of their bioactivities. A RP-HPLC-DAD method was developed using buffer free solvent system for rapid detection and quantification of major OAs from citrus fruits and derived products. Method validation studies showed good linear calibration curve (0.985-0.998) for all OAs. The values of %RSD ranged between 0.0001-1.129 and 0.142-1.941 for interday and intraday variability respectively. The limit of detection and limit of quantification values for different OAs were ranged between 1.5-12 and 5-40 µg mL^-1. The juice of above mentioned citrus fruit cultivars were assessed for OAs, total phenolics, free radical scavenging antioxidants and their antimicrobial potential against selected bacterial and fungal strains. The results showed variable contents of phenolics [0.28 ± 0.001-1.17 ± 0.014 mg (GAE) mL^-1] and antioxidant compounds (1.26 ± 0.009-2.84 ± 0.006 mg of trolox equivalents mL^-1) in all juice samples besides significant antifungal activity against C. albicans and A. niger strains. However, in case of antibacterial activity, only C. aurantifolia showed inhibitory effects against selected strains. It was found that citrus fruits have immense potential for their utilization as economic source of natural OAs and development of value added products, beverages and bio-preservatives.

Phytochemical profiling and antiviral activity of Ajuga bracteosa, Ajuga parviflora, Berberis lycium and Citrus lemon against Hepatitis C Virus

Hepatitis C is a serious health issue and cause liver disorders in millions of people. Available therapeutic agents require long term administration with numerous side effects. Therefore, there is a dire need to find alternative treatment options for this disease. Since ancient times, medicinal plants are widely used to cure various diseases with no or less harmful effects. Therefore, this study was designed to find out phytochemicals and investigate antiviral activity of methanol extract of Ajuga bracteosa, Ajuga parviflora, Berberis lycium and Citrus lemon against Hepatitis C Virus (HCV infection). Phytochemical analysis of the plant extract was performed using various chemical tests. Toxicity of the plant extract was determined against using trypan blue exclusion method. Antiviral activity of the selected plant extract was find out against HCV infected HepG2 cells. For this purpose, HepG2 cells were seeded with HCV positive and negative serum and nontoxic doses of plant extract for 24 and 48 h. After this RNA was extracted and viral load was determined using Real-time PCR. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of flavonoids and phenols in all plant extracts while amino acids, alkaloids and tannins were present in B. lycium and saponins were detected in C. lemon. Toxicity assay showed that all plant extracts were nontoxic at maximum concentration of 200 μg/ml except B. lycium, which showed mild toxicity at 40 μg/ml and were extremely toxic at 60 μg/ml and above doses. Real-time PCR quantitation result revealed that after 24 h treatments A. parviflora showed highest antiviral activity, followed by A. bracteosa, while B. lycium extract had low (35%) and C. lemon has no antiviral effects. The 48 h treatments showed an increase antiviral activity by A. bracteosa followed by A. parviflora and B. lycium while C. lemon showed negative effect. Our results depicted that mentioned plants might be used as an alternative therapeutic regime or in combination with existing treatments against HCV.

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A. bracteosa, A. parviflora, B. lycium and C. lemon methanol extract were checked for antiviral activity against HCV.

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The antiviral activity was in the order of A. parviflora > A. bracteosa > B. lycium.

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C. lemon has a negative effect and increase the HCV load.