Alternative food/feed perspectives of an underutilized legume Mucuna pruriens var. utilis--a review

Association mapping of important agronomic traits in Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC

BACKGROUND

The tropical legume Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. can meet three agricultural needs: low-cost protein, high-value medicines, and green manure or cover crops. But like other underutilized crops, it needs more modern breeding resources. Identifying marker-trait associations (MTAs) can facilitate marker-assisted breeding and crop improvement. Recent studies have demonstrated the feasibility of identifying MTAs using a small number of accessions (< 100). We have characterized a panel of 70 M. pruriens accessions across two consecutive years and performed association analysis for 16 phenotypic traits related to seed (seed length, seed width, seed thickness, seed yield per plant, hundred seed weight); pod (pod length, pod width, number of pods per cluster, number of pods per plant); inflorescence (inflorescence length, flower buds per inflorescence, flower length, pedicel length), and biochemical attributes (L-DOPA, total protein, total carbohydrate), using 66 genic-microsatellite markers following mixed linear model.

RESULTS

The results showed significant phenotypic (P < 0.05) and genetic diversity (Shannon's information index, I = 0.62) in our germplasm collection. Many tested traits were highly heritable (broad-sense heritability ranging from 42.86 to 99.93%). A total of 15 MTAs was detected at an adjusted significance level of P < 5.55 × 10- 3 for nine traits (seed length, seed thickness, seed width, hundred seed weight, seed yield per plant, inflorescence length, flower buds per inflorescence, flower length, and petiole length), contributed by 10 SSR markers (MPU_19, MPU_42, MPU_54, MPU_57, MPU_58, MPU_83, MPU_89, MPU_108, MPU_111, and MPU_122.) with phenotypic variance explained (PVE) ranging from 14.7 to 31.1%. Out of the ten trait-associated markers, the BLAST analysis revealed putative functions of seven markers, except MPU_57, MPU_58, and MPU_83.

CONCLUSION

Fifteen MTAs identified for important traits with phenotypic variance explained > 10% from mixed linear model offer a solid resource base for improving this crop. This is the first report on association mapping in M. pruriens and our results are expected to assist with marker-assisted breeding and identifying candidate genes in this promising legume.

Mucuna pruriens to treat Parkinson's disease in low-income countries: Recommendations and practical guidelines from the farmer to clinical trials. Paving the way for future use in clinical practice

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive and disabling neurodegenerative disease that rapidly worsens and results in premature mortality if left untreated. Although levodopa is the gold standard treatment for PD globally, its accessibility and affordability are severely limited in low- and middle-income countries worldwide. In this scenario, Mucuna pruriens (MP), a leguminous plant growing wild in tropical regions, emerges as a potential alternative or adjunct to levodopa-based medications due to its cost-effectiveness and global natural availability. Recent studies have demonstrated that MP can significantly ameliorate motor symptoms, although tolerability may vary. The proposition that MP could play a pivotal role in providing affordable and symptomatic relief for PD in low- and middle-income countries is grounded in its promising therapeutic profile, yet caution is warranted until more comprehensive data on the long-term safety and efficacy of MP become available. This manuscript summarizes the knowledge gained about MP by the authors, focusing on how to cultivate, store, and provide it to patients in the safest and most effective way in clinical trials. We aim to increase clinical trials investigating its safety and efficacy in PD, before promoting individual use of MP on a global scale, particularly in countries where availability and affordability of levodopa-based medications is still limited.

Effects of supplementing processed velvet beans (Mucuna pruriens L. DC. var. utilis) on nutrients intakes, growth performance, and blood profile in goats

Ruminant production in West Africa faces both qualitative and quantitative feeding constraints during the dry season and animal diseases in smallholder farms. High-protein legume seeds can represent an alternative and sustainable feed that could enhance animal performance. The use of legume beans, limited by their anti-nutritional factor contents, can be improved through different detoxification methods. The study evaluated the effects of processed velvet beans compared to raw velvet beans on the nutritive value of the beans, nutrient intakes, growth performance, and blood profile in West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. Four diets were tested, including 22.22% of raw velvet beans (RW diet), soaked beans (SK diet), boiled beans (BL diet), or roasted beans (RT diet). Twenty WAD goats of 6.85 ± 0.93 kg of body weight were divided equally into 4 groups and fed one of the four experimental diets. The processing method affects the crude protein content of velvet beans; in particular, tannin content was reduced with soaking or boiling. Dry matter and nutrient intakes resulted significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the SK diet compared to the control. Daily weight gain was highest in SK and RT diets and lowest in BL and the control diets RW. Therefore, the FCR was highest in BL and lowest in SK diets. In addition, SK diet showed the lowest feeding cost (1046.70 XOF/kg WG in SK). Our study revealed that processed velvet beans obtained using simple methods (e.g., soaking, boiling, or roasting) could be used as low-cost protein supplements in smallholder farms to enhance goats' performance. The soaking method appears the simplest and cheapest process that smallholder farmers can easily use to enhance goats' productivity and improve their livelihoods.

Underutilized legumes: nutrient status and advanced breeding approaches for qualitative and quantitative enhancement

Underutilized/orphan legumes provide food and nutritional security to resource-poor rural populations during periods of drought and extreme hunger, thus, saving millions of lives. The Leguminaceae, which is the third largest flowering plant family, has approximately 650 genera and 20,000 species and are distributed globally. There are various protein-rich accessible and edible legumes, such as soybean, cowpea, and others; nevertheless, their consumption rate is far higher than production, owing to ever-increasing demand. The growing global urge to switch from an animal-based protein diet to a vegetarian-based protein diet has also accelerated their demand. In this context, underutilized legumes offer significant potential for food security, nutritional requirements, and agricultural development. Many of the known legumes like Mucuna spp., Canavalia spp., Sesbania spp., Phaseolus spp., and others are reported to contain comparable amounts of protein, essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), dietary fiber, essential minerals and vitamins along with other bioactive compounds. Keeping this in mind, the current review focuses on the potential of discovering underutilized legumes as a source of food, feed and pharmaceutically valuable chemicals, in order to provide baseline data for addressing malnutrition-related problems and sustaining pulse needs across the globe. There is a scarcity of information about underutilized legumes and is restricted to specific geographical zones with local or traditional significance. Around 700 genera and 20,000 species remain for domestication, improvement, and mainstreaming. Significant efforts in research, breeding, and development are required to transform existing local landraces of carefully selected, promising crops into types with broad adaptability and economic viability. Different breeding efforts and the use of biotechnological methods such as micro-propagation, molecular markers research and genetic transformation for the development of underutilized crops are offered to popularize lesser-known legume crops and help farmers diversify their agricultural systems and boost their profitability.

Effects of a New Natural Catechol-O-methyl Transferase Inhibitor on Two In Vivo Models of Parkinson's Disease

A tetrahydroisoquinoline identified in Mucuna pruriens ((1R,3S)-6,7-dihydroxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-1,3-dicarboxylic acid, compound 4) was synthesized and assessed for its in vitro pharmacological profile and in vivo effects in two animal models of Parkinson's disease. Compound 4 inhibits catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) with no affinity for the dopaminergic receptors or the dopamine transporter. It restores dopamine-mediated motor behavior when it is co-administered with L-DOPA to C. elegans worms with 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium-damaged dopaminergic neurons. In a 6-hydroxydopamine rat model of Parkinson's disease, its co-administration at 30 mg/kg with L-DOPA enhances the effect of L-DOPA with an intensity similar to that of tolcapone 1 at 30 mg/kg but for a shorter duration. The effect is not dose-dependent. Compound 4 seems not to cross the blood-brain barrier and thus acts as a peripheral COMT inhibitor. COMT inhibition by compound 4 further validates the traditional use of M. pruriens for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, and compound 4 can thus be considered as a promising drug candidate for the development of safe, peripheral COMT inhibitors.

Neglected and Underutilised Crops: A Systematic Review of Their Potential as Food and Herbal Medicinal Crops in South Africa

The African continent harbours many native species with nutraceutical and pharmaceutical potential. This study reviewed underutilised crops in South Africa to determine their potential as food and herbal medicinal crops. Over 5,000 species have been identified and earmarked for their medical attributes in formal and informal setups. Researchers, plant breeders and policymakers have mostly ignored the development potential of these crops. Consequently, their value chains are poorly developed. In South Africa, there is a wide range of neglected and underutilised crops, which were historically popular and used by communities; however, over the years, they have lost their status within farming systems and been relegated to the status of neglected and underutilised. Recently, driven by the need to transition to more sustainable and resilient food systems, there has been renewed interest in their potential as food and herbal medicinal crops to establish new value chains that include vulnerable groups. They are now gaining global attention, and their conservation and sustainable utilisation are now being prioritized. The review confirmed that several of these crops possess nutraceutical and pharmaceutical properties, highlighting their potential for development as food and herbal medicines. However, current production levels are too low to meet the requirements for industrial development; research and development should focus on all aspects of their value chain, from crop improvement to utilisation. A transdisciplinary approach involving a wide range of actors is needed to develop the identified neglected and underutilised crops' potential as food and herbal medicinal crops and support the development of new and inclusive value chains.

Poisoning After Ingestion of Mucuna pruriens Seeds on Reunion Island

Mucuna pruriens seeds contain levodopa, a dopamine precursor that composes the standard treatment to manage symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Also known as velvet bean, this plant is often involved in cases of intense pruritus after contact with the hair that grows on its beans. This case report describes the effects in a 58-y-old woman after ingestion of 5 raw seeds of M pruriens on Reunion Island, a French tropical island territory close to Mauritius, in the Indian Ocean. About 40 min after ingesting the plant, the patient showed adverse digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abundant diarrhea followed by a state of confusion, hallucinations, and amnesia. She was brought to the emergency department. After medical examination, her vitals were normal, and only her nausea lingered. The poison control center was contacted by the medical team. The plant, previously well described and known by the patient, was later picked from the garden and reviewed by the Indian Ocean toxicovigilance department. Expert botanists confirmed the plant species to be M pruriens. The patient ate the raw seeds after reading articles on the Internet, without confirming whether the seeds should have been cooked before consumption. This case highlights that ingesting raw, unprepared M pruriens seeds can cause severe digestive symptoms, possibly accompanied by neurologic disorders.

Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. seed extract inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory responses in BV2 microglial cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Inflammation caused by activated microglia is known to be associated with neurodegenerative diseases, e.g., Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Inhibiting the inflammatory process can be considered a potential strategy for the treatment of inflammation-associated diseases. Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. (Leguminosae) has long been used in Thailand, India, China and other tropical countries to treat several diseases including PD. M. pruriens seeds have been found to possess a variety of pharmacological properties including antioxidant and anti-Parkinsonism effects. However, the anti-inflammatory effects of M. pruriens seeds during microglial activation have yet to be reported.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was performed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of M. pruriens seed extract and elucidate its underlying mechanism using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV2 microglial cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

BV2 microglial cells were pretreated with various concentrations of M. pruriens seed extract before being stimulated with LPS. The levels of inflammatory mediators were analyzed by Griess assay and enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). The protein expression levels of inflammatory cytokines were determined by Western blot analysis. The translocation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was assessed by immunofluorescence microscopy.

RESULTS

M. pruriens seed extract significantly inhibited the release of inflammatory mediators including nitric oxide (NO), IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells. The extract also decreased the protein expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Moreover, M. pruriens seed extract inhibited the translocation of NF-κB.

CONCLUSIONS

M. pruriens seed extract could suppress inflammatory responses in LPS-activated BV2 microglial cells by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings support the use of M. pruriens seeds in traditional and alternative medicine for the treatment of PD and other inflammation-associated diseases.

Tempeh: A semicentennial review on its health benefits, fermentation, safety, processing, sustainability, and affordability

Tempeh is a fermented food made of mainly soybeans and is a nutritious, affordable, and sustainable functional source of protein. Globally, tempeh is a widely accepted fermented product. Although there is a growing body of literature on tempeh, most research has focused on unfermented soybeans, thus the impact of tempeh fermentation on biological properties of soybeans has been largely left scattered. The objective of this review is to summarize the literature of tempeh fermentation over the past 60 years. A search of articles on tempeh published from 1960 to 2020 was performed using the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EBSCOhost FSTA database, and Google Scholar. References from identified articles were reviewed for additional sources. In total, 321 papers were selected for this review, of which 64 papers were related to the health benefits of tempeh. This review concluded that sufficient evidence exists in the literature supporting tempeh fermentation as a low-cost, health-promoting, and sustainable food processing technology to produce protein-rich foods using various beans, legumes, and grains. This comprehensive review suggests further studies are needed on tempeh fermentation and its impact on human health; research and standardization of nonsoy tempeh; assessment of food safety-improving modification in tempeh production system; and initiatives supporting the sourcing of local ingredients in tempeh production.

Cytotoxicity, Phytochemical, Antiparasitic Screening, and Antioxidant Activities of Mucuna pruriens (Fabaceae)

This study aimed at assessing the biological activities of Mucuna pruriens seeds using cytotoxicity, phytochemical, antiparasitic screening, and antioxidant assays. Mature fruits of M. pruriens were harvested from Fort Hare University's Research Farm located in Alice, South Africa. The collected seeds were pulverized in a standard process and taken to the laboratory for crude extraction and further treatments. Cytotoxic, antimalarial, and trypanocidal effects of crude extracts obtained from ethanol and water were tested, while the total phenolic, proanthocyanidin, and flavonoid contents of the aqueous extracts as well as their pharmacological activities were determined in vitro using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl ethanol (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assays. Although the extracts showed mild antiparasitic (antiplasmodial and trypanocidal) effects, results from the cytotoxic experiment revealed that M. pruriens is not toxic to human cervix adenocarcinoma (HeLa) cells when tested using 50 µg/mL of extracts. It was observed that the seeds were remarkably rich in phenol (3730.1 ± 15.52 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g) compared to flavonoids (63.03 ± 1.95 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g) and proanthocyanidin (18.92 ± 1.09 mg catechin equivalent (CE)/g). Also, the antioxidant activities of the extracts were comparable to those of the standard antioxidant drugs (rutin and gallic acid) used, in a concentration-dependent manner. There was a direct relationship between phenolic acid content and antioxidant effects. It is therefore suggested that M. pruriens seeds be incorporated into human diets as a supplement to promote healthy living. Pharmaceutical industries with a particular interest in natural phenolic acids should consider using seeds of M. pruriens as pharmaceutical precursors.

Comprehensive nutritional profiling and activity directed identification of lead antioxidant, antilithiatic agent from Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc

Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc. (family Fabaceae) is traditionally important pulse used for kidney stone degradation, cold,cough, asthma and in bronchial issues. It is well reported for the antilithiatic activity and nutritional profiling but no attempt has been made to find out the mechanism and nutrient responsible for the activity in its seed decoction. Therefore, lead high altitude variety responsible for the highest nutrient content and antilithiatic activity was selected for the study. Boiled spray dried extract (M₁), lead fractionation (Spray dried residual water fraction: M₂), and crude powder extract (M₃) were nutritionally profiled using proximate composition analysis, Atomic absorption spectroscopy (minerals and trace elements), Ion exchange chromatography (carbohydrate analysis) and NMR spectroscopy (polar and non polar metabolite analysis). These extracts were also screened for the antilithiatic activity and found significantly important. M₁ showed more activity than M₃. Further, boiled extract was fractionated with different polarity of solvents (hexane, chloroform, n-butanol, residual water extract). All fractions and reference standard (cystone) were screened for the antilithiatic activity. M₂ showed highest activity followed by ethyl acteate while hexane and chloroform did not show any activity in comparison to standards. Thus, lead fraction and market reference standard (cystone) were validated for the presence of nutritional components. Moreover, the selected nutritional components were individually and in combinations screened for the activity which revealed that kidney stone degradation was due to the synergetic action of components than the individual. The results clearly pave a way that Macrotyloma uniflorum is best for combating with malnutrition and kidney stone related problems.

An assessment of potential nutritive and medicinal properties of Mucuna pruriens: a natural food legume

Mucuna pruriens belongs to the Fabaceae family and is ordinarily known as velvet bean, in English cowitch and Hindi Kawaanch. The restorative quality of this bean makes it an excellent component in pharmaceutical and therapeutic applications. Apart from high protein and starch content, these beans contain (l-Dopa) 3, 4-dihydroxy-l-phenylalanine, which exhibits several medicinal properties. However, it is poisonous when ingested by ruminants. The obstruction to the advancement of Mucuna as nutrition or food is the nearness of antinutrients, which are high as opposed to other uncommon vegetables. Also, this legume is considered as a future restorative herb because of its anticholesterolemic, anti-Parkinson, antioxidant, antidiabetic, sexual enhancing, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antivenom activities. It also exhibits anticancer activities, but very few studies have been done. The seeds of Mucuna pruriens also contain a vast range of phytochemical constituents such as alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, reducing sugars, and tannins, which provide an avenue to explore it for wider applications. This review sheds light on the possible mechanism of action of Mucuna pruriens on some diseases (hypoglycemia, Parkinson's disease, microbial diseases and tumor). and also fills the gap in the studies of Mucuna pruriens. and Further more in vitro and in vivo studies should be done to explore the potential of these seeds against many diseases, its application as a food source, its antinutrient, and harmful properties as well as its nutraceutical perspective.

Ancient orphan legume horse gram: a potential food and forage crop of future

Tailoring crops to withstand rising temperature and declining precipitation may be unrewarding, therefore the potential of alternative undervalued crops such as horse gram can be explored for safeguarding food and nutritional security with health benefits in the era of climate change. Horse gram [Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc] under the family Fabaceae, has been cultivated for food, folklore medicine and fodder mainly by rural and tribal communities since prehistoric times in Asian and African countries. This valuable ancient legume not only offers diversification and resilience to agro-ecosystems but it also possesses high adaptation in risk-prone traditional farming systems in marginal environments of semi-arid and arid regions. Being a nutrient dense legume with remedial health-promoting effects due to the presence of various bioactive compounds, it is suitable for the development of functional food as well as for addressing micronutrient deficiencies among poor rural communities. Despite its enormous potential and a growing awareness about the utility of this underutilized crop for future climate adaptation and human well-being, this legume continues to be seriously neglected and labelled as "food of the poors". India is the major producer of horse gram and presently, cultivation of horse gram remains confined to small-scale farming systems as an inter- or mixed crop. This crop is alienated from mainstream agriculture and relegated to a status of "underutilized" due to its limited competitiveness as compared to other commercial crops. Besides a scanty basic research on this crop, no attention has been paid to the factors like improvement of plant type, yield improvement, processing, value addition to suit consumer needs and reduction of anti-nutritional factors, which restricted the diffusion of this crop outside its niche area. The present review therefore is an attempt to compile the meagre information available on crop history, evolution, genetic enhancement, nutritional and health benefits to make the crop competitive and revitalize horse gram cultivation.

Quantitative NMR analysis of L-Dopa in seeds from two varieties of Mucuna pruriens

INTRODUCTION

L-Dopa, a key neurotransmitter used to treat neural disorders such as Parkinson's disease, is found in the seeds of the genus Mucuna at a sufficient concentration for possible commercial use.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a simple and reliable method to extract L-Dopa from M. pruriens seeds in an aqueous medium and then quantitate this compound using a ¹ H qNMR method (internal standard); and also to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of this method with an NMR calibration curve.

METHODOLOGY

The extraction method of L-Dopa from M. pruriens was optimized. The quantitation with single point quantitative NMR (qNMR) and NMR calibration curve was based on the resonance properties of the main functional groups of the L-Dopa molecule, in particular the signals of the three aromatic protons, which were compared with the signal of an internal standard such as syringic acid. The accuracy (precision and trueness) and reproducibility of both NMR techniques were evaluated.

RESULTS

The methods of single point qNMR and NMR calibration curve, applied to the seeds of two M. pruriens varieties, gave very similar L-Dopa contents: 3.0-3.2% and 3.0-3.1%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The statistical analysis confirmed the accuracy and reproducibility of this single point qNMR method (internal standard) for determining L-Dopa, as well as other commercial preparations of this species, without performing an NMR calibration curve.

Comparative effects of L-DOPA and velvet bean seed extract on soybean lignification

Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens) is an efficient cover forage that controls weeds, pathogens and nematodes, and the non-protein amino acid L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) is its main allelochemical. The effects of 3 g L-1 of an aqueous extract of velvet bean seeds, along with 0.5 mM L-DOPA for comparison, were evaluated in roots, stems and leaves of soybean (Glycine max). The activities of phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) were determined, along with the lignin content and its monomeric composition. The results revealed similar effects caused by L-DOPA and the aqueous extract. Both treatments reduced PAL and CAD activities, lignin, and lignin monomer contents in roots; PAL and CAD activities in stems, and CAD activity in leaves. These findings provide further evidence that the effects of velvet bean cover forage on root lignification were due to the L-DOPA, its major allelochemical.

Mechanism of antihypertensive effect of Mucuna pruriens L. seed extract and its isolated compounds

Background In the search of safe and effective lead molecules from natural sources, Mucuna pruriens (MP) L. (Fabaceae) seeds were utilized for exploring the antihypertensive potential. Traditionally, it is used as diuretic and hypotensive. Methods Bioassay-guided fractions were utilized for the isolation of active compounds by column chromatography. IC50 value, enzyme kinetics and inhibition mechanism were determined. In vivo time and dose-dependent hypotensive study followed by changes in mean arterial pressure (MAP) induced by angiotensin I (3 nmol/kg), angiotensin II (3 nmol/kg), and bradykinin (10 nmol/kg) in anesthetized rats was done. Plasma and tissue angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) activities were also determined. Results Phytochemical analysis by spectroscopic techniques revealed the presence of known compounds like genistein, ursolic acid and L-DOPA from the ethyl acetate and water fraction, respectively. In vitro study revealed MP ethyl acetate (MPEA) fraction and genistein as the most active fraction (IC50 156.45 µg/mL) and compound (IC50 253.81 µM), respectively. Lineweaver-Burk plots revealed a non-competitive mode of inhibition. ACE protein precipitation was the suggested mechanism for inhibition. The extract showed a time- and dose-dependent decrease in MAP. Genistein was able to dose-dependently reduce the MAP, up to 53±1.5 mmHg (40 mg/kg, i.v.). As compared to control, it showed a dose-dependent decrease in plasma ACE activity of 40.61 % and 54.76 % at 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg, respectively. It also decreased the ACE activity in the aorta (107.67nM/ml min at 10 mg, p<0.001; 95.33nM/ml min at 20 mg p<0.001). Captopril was used as a standard for various in vitro and in vivo assays. Conclusions The study revealed the antihypertensive potential of MP seed compounds via ACE inhibition.

Mucuna pruriens for Parkinson's disease: Low-cost preparation method, laboratory measures and pharmacokinetics profile

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition. Levodopa (LD) is the gold standard therapy for PD patients. Most PD patients in low-income areas cannot afford long-term daily Levodopa therapy. The aim of our study was to investigate if Mucuna pruriens (MP), a legume with high LD content that grows in tropical regions worldwide, might be potential alternative for poor PD patients.

METHODS

We analyzed 25 samples of MP from Africa, Latin America and Asia. We measured the content in LD in various MP preparations (dried, roasted, boiled). LD pharmacokinetics and motor response were recorded in four PD patients, comparing MP vs. LD+Dopa-Decarboxylase Inhibitor (DDCI) formulations.

RESULTS

Median LD concentration in dried MP seeds was 5.29%; similar results were obtained in roasted powder samples (5.3%), while boiling reduced LD content up to 70%. Compared to LD+DDCI, MP extract at similar LD dose provided less clinical benefit, with a 3.5-fold lower median AUC.

CONCLUSION

Considering the lack of a DDCI, MP therapy may provide clinical benefit only when content of LD is at least 3.5-fold the standard LD+DDCI. If long-term MP proves to be safe and effective in controlled clinical trials, it may be a sustainable alternative therapy for PD in low-income countries.

Indian Herbs for the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disease

Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine that is indigenous to India, is believed to be the world's oldest comprehensive health-care system and is now one of the most recognized and widely practiced disciplines of alternative medicine in the world. Medicinal herbs have been in use for treating diseases since ancient times in India. Ayurvedic therapies with medicinal herbs and herbomineral products generally provide relief without much adverse effects even after prolonged administration. Neurodegenerative disorders are a major cause of mortality and disability, and increasing life spans represent one of the key challenges of medical research. Ayurvedic medicine describes most neurodegenerative diseases and has defined a number of plants with therapeutic benefits for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases having antioxidant activities. In this chapter, the role of four important Ayurvedic medicinal plants, viz., Withania somnifera (ashwagandha), Bacopa monnieri (brahmi), Centella asiatica (gotu kola), and Mucuna pruriens (velvet bean), on neurodegenerative diseases are discussed.

The Magic Velvet Bean of Mucuna pruriens

Mucuna pruriens (Fabaceae) is an established herbal drug used for the management of male infertility, nervous disorders, and also as an aphrodisiac. It has been shown that its seeds are potentially of substantial medicinal importance. The ancient Indian medical system, Ayurveda, traditionally used M. pruriens, even to treat such things as Parkinson's disease. M. pruriens has been shown to have anti-parkinson and neuroprotective effects, which may be related to its anti-oxidant activity. In addition, anti-oxidant activity of M. pruriens has been also demonstrated in vitro by its ability to scavenge DPPH radicals and reactive oxygen species. In this review the medicinal properties of M. pruriens are summarized, taking in consideration the studies that have used the seeds extracts and the leaves extracts.

Performance of Mashona doelings supplemented with different levels of velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens L. DC. var. utilis) seed meal

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of feeding increasing levels of velvet bean seed meal (VBM; 0, 12, 24, and 36 %) on the performance of Mashona doelings. Dry matter intake was lower (P < 0.05) for the control diet compared to VBM diets, but linearly declined (P < 0.05) with increasing levels of VBM. Average daily weight gain was significantly different between experimental groups. Doelings' final live weights and average daily gains were slightly higher in control group than other three supplemented groups where they linearly declined (P < 0.05) with increasing levels of VBM. The cost per kilogram of feed, however, decreased with high inclusion level of VBM. Result suggested that high inclusion level of VBM negatively influenced the growth of young goats probably due to the presence of some anti-nutritional factors which needs further investigation.

The role of L-DOPA in plants

Since higher plants regularly release organic compounds into the environment, their decay products are often added to the soil matrix and a few have been reported as agents of plant-plant interactions. These compounds, active against higher plants, typically suppress seed germination, cause injury to root growth and other meristems, and inhibit seedling growth. Mucuna pruriens is an example of a successful cover crop with several highly active secondary chemical agents that are produced by its seeds, leaves and roots. The main phytotoxic compound encountered is the non-protein amino acid L-DOPA, which is used in treating the symptoms of Parkinson disease. In plants, L-DOPA is a precursor of many alkaloids, catecholamines, and melanin and is released from Mucuna into soils, inhibiting the growth of nearby plant species. This mini-review summarizes knowledge regarding L-DOPA in plants, providing a brief overview about its metabolic actions.

Protein characterization of protein bodies from cotyledons of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC

Seeds of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. (Fabaceae) were analyzed for protein composition of protein bodies isolated from cotyledons. Protein bodies were successfully separated by Lympholyte and those of dry seeds, observed by scanning electron microscope, were elliptical or spherical in shape with a diameter of 5-12 μm. Protein content in dry seed protein bodies was 10.6 mg/g dry weight. Globulin was the largest protein fraction isolated (62.5 %), followed by albumin (18.3 %), glutelin (15.8 %) and prolamin (3.4 %). The prolamin fraction and high glutelin content are uncommon in legumes. SDS-PAGE of albumins, globulins, prolamins and glutelins provided different band numbers and molecular weights under reducing and non reducing conditions and suggested that the albumin fraction is rich in disulphide bonds.

Solubilization, fractionation, and electrophoretic characterization of Inca peanut (Plukenetia volubilis L.) proteins

Effects of different solvents, ionic strength, and pH on Inca peanut seed protein solubility were assessed by quantitatively analyzing solubilized proteins using Lowry and Bradford methods. Soluble proteins were fractionated using Osborne procedure and the polypeptide composition of solubilized proteins was determined by one dimensional 25 % monomer acrylamide linear gradient SDS-PAGE. Osborne protein fractions were analyzed by the 2D gel electrophoresis. Total seed proteins were efficiently solubilized by 2 M NaCl among the tested solvents. The soluble seed proteins registered a minimum solubility at pH ~4.0. Osborne protein fractions, albumins, globulins, prolamins, and glutelins accounted for 43.7, 27.3, 3.0, and 31.9 %, respectively, of the total aqueous soluble proteins. Soluble seed flour proteins are mainly composed of polypeptides in the MW range of 6-70 kDa of which the predominant polypeptides were in the 20-40 kDa range. Prolamin fraction was mainly composed of four polypeptides (MW < 15 kDa). Glycoprotein staining indicated 32-35 and <14 kDa peptides to be positive.

A dietary supplement containing chlorophytum borivilianum and velvet bean improves sleep quality in men and women

BACKGROUND

Impaired sleep quality is commonplace within industrialized societies, as evidenced by the increasing number of prescription sleep aids available. Certain herbal preparations have been suggested to provide a natural benefit to sleep; however, limited controlled data are available documenting this benefit. In the present study we tested the effect of an experimental dietary supplement, containing the active ingredients Chlorophytum borivilianum and Velvet bean, on sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).

METHODS

Eighteen healthy and active men and women, with evidence of impaired sleep quality, consumed the supplement daily for 28 days. The PSQI was administered before and after the intervention period. As indicators of safety, resting heart rate and blood pressure were measured, and a complete blood count, comprehensive metabolic panel, and lipid panel were determined.

RESULTS

Sleep quality was influenced by the supplement, as evidenced by an improvement in every category of the PSQI questionnaire (P < 0.05), with most category scores improving approximately 50% from pre to post intervention. No adverse outcomes were noted with use of the supplement, as indicated by no change in resting heart rate, blood pressure, or any bloodborne parameter.

CONCLUSIONS

An investigational dietary supplement containing the active ingredients Chlorophytum borivilianum and Velvet bean improves sleep quality in men and women. Additional placebo controlled trials are needed to corroborate these findings in individuals with self-reported sleeping difficulty.

A blend of chlorophytum borivilianum and velvet bean increases serum growth hormone in exercise-trained men

Background:

Several isolated ingredients have been proposed to increase growth hormone (GH) release, including Chlorophytum borivilianum and Velvet bean. A combination of these two ingredients has been packaged within an investigational dietary supplement. It was the purpose of the present investigation to determine the impact of acute ingestion of this supplement on circulating GH in healthy, exercise-trained men.

Methods:

Fifteen men ingested the dietary supplement on two different days, separated by one week. Blood was collected from subjects before ingestion of the supplement and at 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, and 120 minutes post ingestion. GH was analyzed in serum samples using an ELISA method. Values for GH for each subject, at each collection time, were averaged over both test days and used in the main analysis.

Results:

Serum GH increased over time, with higher values at 60 minutes (1.56 ± 0.65 ng · mL⁻¹; P = 0.04; +767%), 80 minutes (1.76 ± 0.69 ng · mL⁻¹; P = 0.02; +878%), and 100 minutes (1.48 ± 0.62 ng · mL⁻¹; P = 0.05; +722%) compared to pre ingestion (0.18 ± 0.04 ng · mL⁻¹). A great deal of subject variability existed in the area under the curve (AUC) for GH, with pooled values ranging from 0.49 to 61.2 ng · mL⁻¹ · 2 hr⁻¹

Conclusion:

Acute ingestion of an investigational dietary supplement containing the active ingredients Chlorophytum borivilianum and Velvet bean results in an increase in circulating GH in exercise-trained men. Additional placebo controlled investigations are needed to extend these findings. Moreover, studies are needed to determine if chronic use of such supplementation leads to favorable changes in health-related parameters associated with increased circulating GH.

Natural products from ethnodirected studies: revisiting the ethnobiology of the zombie poison

Wade Davis's study of Haitian “zombification” in the 1980s was a landmark in ethnobiological research. His research was an attempt to trace the origins of reports of “undead” Haitians, focusing on the preparation of the zombification poison. Starting with this influential ethnopharmacological research, this study examines advances in the pharmacology of natural products, focusing especially on those of animal-derived products. Ethnopharmacological, pharmacological, and chemical aspects are considered. We also update information on the animal species that reportedly constitute the zombie poison. Several components of the zombie powder are not unique to Haiti and are used as remedies in traditional medicine worldwide. This paper emphasizes the medicinal potential of products from zootherapy. These biological products are promising sources for the development of new drugs.

Proanthocyanidins inhibit iron absorption from soybean (Glycine max) seed ferritin in rats with iron deficiency anemia

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of proanthocyanidins (PAs) on iron uptake from soybean seed ferritin (SSF) crude by rats with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) for the first time. Six groups of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (n = 10) were used, which contain (1) SSF crude group; (2) SSF crude + PAs group; (3) PAs group; (4) FeSO(4) group; (5) iron deficiency control group; and (6) control group. The bioavailability of iron was examined by measuring hemoglobin (Hb) concentration value, red blood cell (RBC) numbers, and serum iron stores. After 8 weeks, Hb concentration was almost recovered to the normal level upon feeding SSF crude or FeSO(4) to rats. In contrast, Hb concentration was recovered to less extent when SSF crude plus PAs was used instead of SSF crude alone (P < 0.05). A similar profile was observed with these three sample groups when serum iron and RBC were used as parameters. All rats in PAs group died at the 8th week. Taken together, all these results demonstrated that PAs inhibited iron uptake of rats from SSF, and are toxic for rats with IDA.

Effect of certain indigenous processing methods on the bioactive compounds of ten different wild type legume grains

In recent years, research efforts are under-way on the possibilities of utilization of natural source of bioactive compounds for the dietary management of certain chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, cancer etc. In this connection, seed materials of promising wild type under-utilized food legume grains such as Acacia nilotica (L.) Willd. Ex Delile, Bauhinia purpurea L., Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC., Cassia hirsuta L., Caesalpinia bonducella F., Erythrina indica L., Mucuna gigantea (Willd.) DC., Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre, Sebania sesban (L.) Merr. and Xylia xylocarpa Roxb. Taub., collected from South India, were investigated for certain bioactive compounds. All the samples were found to constitute a viable source of total free phenolics (3.12-6.69 g/100 g DM), tannins (1.10-4.41 g/100 g DM), L-Dopa (1.34-5.45 g/100 g DM) and phytic acid (0.98-3.14 g/100 g DM). In general, the seed materials of X. xylocarpa recorded high levels of total free phenolics and tannins, whereas the maximum levels of L-Dopa and phytic acid were noticed in M. gigantea and S. sesban, respectively. Further, presently investigated all the bioactive compounds were drastically reduced during soaking in tamarind solution + cooking as well as soaking in alkaline solution + cooking, and thus these treatments were considered to be more aggressive practices. Open-pan roasting also demonstrated a significant reduction of total free phenolics, tannins and moderate loss of L-Dopa and phytic acid. Alternatively, sprouting + oil-frying showed significant level of increase of total free phenolics (9-27%) and tannins (12-28%), but diminishing effect on phytic acid and L-Dopa. Hence, among the presently employed treatments, sprouting + oil-frying could be recommended as a suitable treatment for the versatile utilization of these wild under-utilized legume grains for the dietary management of certain chronic diseases.

Evaluation of velvet bean meal as an alternative protein ingredient for poultry feed

The effect of certain simple and cost-effective processing methods on the nutritional and anti-nutritional properties of seed materials of an under-utilized food legume, Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. var. utilis (Wall. ex Wight) Baker ex Burck (velvet bean, VB), collected from Valanadu, Kerala, India was analyzed in experiment 1. The raw VB seeds were found to contain appreciable levels of crude protein (263.2 g/kg dry matter (DM)); ether extract (79.6 g/kg DM); crude fiber (95.8 g/kg DM) and ash content (38.4 g/kg DM). Among the different treatments used, soaking in sodium bicarbonate solution + autoclaving was more effective in reducing maximum levels of various anti-nutritional compounds of VB seeds. Furthermore, in experiment 2, the effect of inclusion of different levels of velvet bean meal (VBM; subjected to soaking in sodium bicarbonate solution + autoclaving) as an alternative protein source in poultry feed on the growth performance of commercial-type broiler birds was investigated. The results indicate that the inclusion of VBM up to the 40% level exhibited better growth performance of the broiler birds such as feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio in both the starter and finisher phases.

Studies on the incorporation of velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens var. utilis) as an alternative protein source in poultry feed and its effect on growth performance of broiler chickens

The effect of replacement of soybean meal by the velvet bean meal as an alternative protein ingredient on the growth performance of broiler chickens was investigated. The raw seeds of velvet bean [Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. var. utilis (Wall. ex Wight) Baker ex Burck], an under-utilized food legume collected from South India, was found to contain appreciable levels of crude protein (273.2 g/kg DM), lipid (60.61 g/kg DM), neutral detergent fiber (84.3 g/kg DM), and ash content (56.04 g/kg DM). Soaking in 0.2% sodium bicarbonate solution + autoclaving treatment caused a substantial reduction on the levels of various antinutritional compounds such as tannins (84%), L: -Dopa (79%), phytic acid (87%), raffinose (93%), stachyose (83%), verbascose (73%), haemagglutinating activity (84%), trypsin inhibitor activity (77%), and alpha-amylase inhibitor activity (78%) without affecting the nutritional quality of velvet bean seeds. The processed velvet bean meal was incorporated as an alternative protein source by replacing soybean meal protein at 0, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% levels in the broiler diets. Replacement of soybean meal protein up to 40% level, which corresponds to the inclusion of velvet bean meal up to 15.7% and 11% in the starter and finisher phase poultry feeds, respectively, exhibited better growth performance of broiler birds without any adverse effects.

Organic and genetically modified soybean diets: consequences in growth and in hematological indicators of aged rats

The aim of this study was to evaluate the protein quality of organic and genetically modified soy by feeding specific diets to rats. Three groups of Wistar rats (n=10) were used, and each group was named according to the food that they ate. There was an organic soy group (OG), a genetically modified soy group (GG), and a control group (CG). All animals received water and diet ad libitum for 455 days. At the end of this period, the weight of the GG group was the same as that of the OG, and both were higher than CG. Protein intake was similar for the OG and GG, which were significantly lower (p<0.0005) than the CG. The growth rate (GR) of the rats, albumin levels, and total levels of serum protein were comparable for all groups. Hematocrit (p<0.04) and hemoglobin (p<0.03) for the OG and GG were less than the CG. Although the OG and GG demonstrated reduced hematocrit and hemoglobin, both types of soy were utilized in a way similar to casein. This result suggests that the protein quality of soy is parallel to the standard protein casein in terms of growth promotion but not hematological indicators.