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KOUAGO BA, SEKA D, BROU KF, BONNY BS, KOFFI KHJ, ADJOUMANI K, SIE RS. Combining ability analysis of Cucurbita moschata D. in Côte d'Ivoire and classification of promising lines based on their gca effects. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305798. [PMID: 39172947 PMCID: PMC11340976 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cucurbita moschata varieties grown in Africa have very low yield. They have been neglected, and totally ignored in agricultural research programs. However, interest in their fruits, seeds, flowers and leaves is growing nowadays due to their nutritional and medicinal potentials. That growing interest has prompted plant breeders and agronomists to develop research programs for their improvement. A complete diallel cross analysis of four parental lines, Long, Zouan-H, Oval, and Soubre and their twelve F1 hybrids, was carried out in a farming environment at the University Nangui Abrogoua, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. The four parental lines and the F1 hybrids were evaluated for their general performances, combining abilities, potency ratio and heterosis effects. The investigated traits included plant height, and eleven fruit- and seed-related characters. The analysis of variance showed significant differences for all traits studied. In addition, the diallel model yielded highly significant gca effects of the female parents. The gca effects of the male parents were significant for all traits except plant height, length of the fruit, width of the fruit and length of the seed. Highly significant sca effects were observed in the crosses for all the traits. Strong maternal effects were observed for the weight and diameter of the fruit, weight of the pulp, number of seeds per fruit, weight of the fresh seeds and 100-seed weight. The general predictive ratio approached the value 1 for all the traits except weight of the fresh seed and width of the dry seed. Most of the characters under this study are predominantly determined by the effects of additive genes. But, weight of the fresh seed and width of the dry seed may be controlled by non-additive genes. Mid-parent heterosis was significant for all measured traits in the crosses, except the length of the fruit. And better-parent heterosis was significant for all traits except plant height, number of fruits per plant and length of the fruit. Gene expression is described by a super-dominance for many traits, and partial dominance for some other traits in all twelve F1 hybrids. Classification of the parental lines based on the effects of their general combining ability grouped the Soubre lines as promising contributors to fruit yield. The parental lines Long and Oval formed another group likely on the basis of the small size of their fruits, the small pulps, the smaller number of fruits per plant and the large number of seeds per fruit. However, Long would be a candidate parent for the development of cultivars with longer vegetative growth. The parental line Zouan-H formed the third group and it was mostly characterized by its large number of seeds per fruit and relatively large fruits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dagou SEKA
- Université Nangui Abrogoua, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
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Vinayashree S, Hemakumar C, Veeranna RP, Kumar R, Pavithra V, Mahendra VP, Vasu P. In Vitro Studies of Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata var. Kashi Harit) Seed Protein Fraction(s) to Evaluate Anticancer and Antidiabetic Properties. PLANT FOODS FOR HUMAN NUTRITION (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2024:10.1007/s11130-024-01205-7. [PMID: 38951376 DOI: 10.1007/s11130-024-01205-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes are the major public health concerns of India and worldwide. Nowadays, plant-derived products are in great demand for the treatment of these diseases. Pumpkin seeds are traditionally implicated for their pharmacological properties, as exemplified by benign prostatic hyperplasia. Earlier, pumpkin seed proteins were extracted by the Osborne method, and their functional and nutritional qualities were evaluated. Here, the aim is to assess in vitro, the anticancer and antidiabetic properties of seed protein fractions. HepG2, MDA-MB-231, and MCF-7 cell lines were treated with water-soluble (WF) and alkali-soluble fractions (AF) to assess cytotoxicity, while pancreatic β-cells and insulin resistance (IR) - HepG2 cell lines were treated with WF to evaluate the antidiabetic potential. WF and AF showed cytotoxic effects towards HepG2 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, suggesting apoptosis-mediated anticancerous activity. WF potentiates glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in pancreatic β-cells, in a dose-dependent manner. In IR-HepG2 cell line studies, control, metformin, and WF-treated groups showed uptake of glucose, when compared to the diabetic group, which is well-correlated with the upregulated expressions of GLUT2 and GLUT4 transporters in these groups. These results indicate that proteins from WF and AF may have anticancerous and antidiabetic properties and thus have the potential to utilize pumpkin proteins in the management of cancer and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vinayashree
- Department of Food Safety and Analytical Quality Control Laboratory, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR-CFTRI), Mysuru, Karnataka, 570020, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, UP, 201002, India
| | - C Hemakumar
- Department of Biochemistry, CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru, Karnataka, 570020, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Dayananda Sagar College of Engineering, Shavige Malleshwara Hills, KS Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Ravindra P Veeranna
- Department of Biochemistry, CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru, Karnataka, 570020, India
- Xavier University School of Medicine, Xavier University School of Veterinary Medicine, Santa Helenastraat #23, Oranjestad, Aruba
| | - Ravi Kumar
- Department of Molecular Nutrition, CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru, Karnataka, 570020, India
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - V Pavithra
- Department of Biochemistry, CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru, Karnataka, 570020, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, UP, 201002, India
| | - V P Mahendra
- Department of Molecular Nutrition, CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru, Karnataka, 570020, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, UP, 201002, India
| | - Prasanna Vasu
- Department of Food Safety and Analytical Quality Control Laboratory, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR-CFTRI), Mysuru, Karnataka, 570020, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, UP, 201002, India.
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Yang Z, Chen S, Sun W, Yang Y, Xu Y, Tang Y, Jiang W, Li J, Zhang Y. Study on the mechanisms by which pumpkin polysaccharides regulate abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism in diabetic mice under oxidative stress. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 270:132249. [PMID: 38729500 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Pumpkin polysaccharide (PPe-H) can perform physiological functions through its antioxidative and hypoglycemic effects; however, the mechanisms through which PPe-H regulates abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism caused by oxidative stress injury remain unclear. In the present study, streptozotocin was used to generate an acute diabetic mouse model, and the effects of PPe-H on glucose and lipid metabolism impaired by oxidative stress in diabetic mice were studied. PPe-H significantly reduced blood glucose levels and enhanced the oral glucose tolerance of diabetic mice under stress injury (p < 0.05). The analysis of liver antioxidant enzymes showed that PPe-H significantly enhanced the activities of SOD and CAT (p < 0.05), increased the GSH level, and decreased the level of MDA (p < 0.05). Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of the liver tissues of mice revealed characteristic differences in the genetic and metabolic levels of the samples, which showed that PPe-H treatment may play a positive role in regulating the metabolism of methionine, cysteine, glycerol phospholipid, and linoleic acid. These results indicated that PPe-H alleviated the symptoms of hyperglycemia by regulating metabolites related to oxidative stress and glycolipid metabolism in diabetic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeen Yang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Specialty Agri-product Quality and Hazard Controlling Technology of Zhejiang Province, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Shengdong Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Specialty Agri-product Quality and Hazard Controlling Technology of Zhejiang Province, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Wenxuan Sun
- Liang Xin College, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Yechen Yang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Specialty Agri-product Quality and Hazard Controlling Technology of Zhejiang Province, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Yuxuan Xu
- Liang Xin College, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Yuxuan Tang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Specialty Agri-product Quality and Hazard Controlling Technology of Zhejiang Province, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Wen Jiang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Specialty Agri-product Quality and Hazard Controlling Technology of Zhejiang Province, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Jia Li
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Specialty Agri-product Quality and Hazard Controlling Technology of Zhejiang Province, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Specialty Agri-product Quality and Hazard Controlling Technology of Zhejiang Province, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province 310018, China.
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Hussain A, Korma SA, Kabir K, Kauser S, Arif MR, Fatima H, Ali S, Ali MQ, Yaqub S, Shehzad A, Akram S, Ali A. In vitro and In vivo Determination of Biological Activities of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) Peel, Flesh and Seeds. PLANT FOODS FOR HUMAN NUTRITION (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 79:316-321. [PMID: 38358638 DOI: 10.1007/s11130-024-01153-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Momordica charantia L. has been remained a well-known medicinal vegetable used traditionally. However, which part is most effective against which disorder, has been remained undiscovered yet. The objective of this study was to examine the antimicrobial, antihyperlipidemic and antihyperglycemic activities of peel, flesh, and seeds of bitter gourd, through in vitro and in vivo assays. Ethanolic extracts from powders of three fractions of bitter gourd were assessed for antimicrobial potential against bacterial and fungal strains, whereas, powders of these fractions were used to determine antihyperlipidemic and antihyperglycemic activity, in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Our results showed that BSE exhibited better antimicrobial activity against Bacillus cereus, whereas BFE exhibited better against Escherichia coli. Blood glucose was significantly lowered by all three powders in a dose dependent manner, when fed to diabetic rats, with the highest decrease by BSP, which reduced the glucose level from 296.20 ± 2.00 mg/dl to 123.10 ± 0.80 mg/dl, at 15 mg dose, after 28 days trial. Elevated levels of TC (101.18 ± 0.65 mg/dl), TG (83.69 ± 0.61 mg/dl) and LDL-C (25.90 ± 0.09 mg/dl) in positive control rats were lowered down in well manners by BSP at 15 mg dose, to 86.30 ± 0.53, 67.70 ± 0.53 and 19.32 ± 0.06 mg/dl, respectively. As compared to BFP and BPP, BSP showed significant involvement in antibacterial, antihyperglycemic, and antihyperlipidemic actions. Along with the edible flesh, peels and seeds, which are usually discarded as waste, could also be utilized for development of pharma foods capable of promoting health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashiq Hussain
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, 41000, Pakistan.
| | - Sameh A Korma
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Khurram Kabir
- Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Samina Kauser
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, 41000, Pakistan
| | - Muhmmad Rehan Arif
- College of Food and Biological Engineering, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, 161006, China
| | - Haya Fatima
- Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Shafiqa Ali
- National Chung Cheng University, Chiayi, 621301, Taiwan
| | | | - Shazia Yaqub
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, 41000, Pakistan
| | - Anjum Shehzad
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, 41000, Pakistan
| | - Saima Akram
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, 41000, Pakistan
| | - Atif Ali
- Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi, 44000, Pakistan
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
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Tzean Y, Wang KT, Gamboa Chen E, Wang HW, Wu TM, Liu CA. Antioxidant Responses and Growth Impairment in Cucurbita moschata Infected by Meloidogyne incognita. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:267. [PMID: 38666879 PMCID: PMC11048190 DOI: 10.3390/biology13040267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata), valued for their nutritional, medicinal, and economic significance, face threats from Meloidogyne incognita, a critical plant-parasitic nematode. This study extensively examines the impact of M. incognita on the growth, physiological, and biochemical responses of C. moschata. We demonstrate that M. incognita infection leads to significant growth impairment in C. moschata, evidenced by reduced plant height and biomass, along with the significant development of nematode-induced galls. Concurrently, a pronounced oxidative stress response was observed, characterized by elevated levels of hydrogen peroxide and a significant increase in antioxidant defense mechanisms, including the upregulation of key antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, catalase, and peroxidase) and the accumulation of glutathione. These responses highlight a dynamic interaction between the plant and the nematode, wherein C. moschata activates a robust antioxidant defense to mitigate the oxidative stress induced by nematode infection. Despite these defenses, the persistence of growth impairment underscores the challenge posed by M. incognita to the agricultural production of C. moschata. Our findings contribute to the understanding of plant-nematode interactions, paving the way for the development of strategies aimed at enhancing resistance in Cucurbitaceae crops against nematode pests, thus supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuh Tzean
- Department of Plant Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan; (E.G.C.); (H.-W.W.); (C.-A.L.)
| | - Kuang-Teng Wang
- Department of Aquaculture, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan; (K.-T.W.); (T.-M.W.)
| | - Elena Gamboa Chen
- Department of Plant Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan; (E.G.C.); (H.-W.W.); (C.-A.L.)
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Wen Wang
- Department of Plant Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan; (E.G.C.); (H.-W.W.); (C.-A.L.)
| | - Tsung-Meng Wu
- Department of Aquaculture, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan; (K.-T.W.); (T.-M.W.)
| | - Chia-An Liu
- Department of Plant Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan; (E.G.C.); (H.-W.W.); (C.-A.L.)
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Saleh AS, El-Newary SA, Mohamed WA, Elgamal AM, Farah MA. Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita pepo subsp. ovifera) decoction promotes Trichinella spiralis expulsion during intestinal phase via "Weep and Sweep" mechanism. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1548. [PMID: 38233460 PMCID: PMC10794180 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51616-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Trichinosis is a zoonotic disease of communal health concern as it instigated human outbreaks in several countries. Besides, the development of resistance, traditional therapy has numerous antagonistic effects. Thereby, finding efficient natural alternatives is required. In comparison to albendazole, this study evaluated the impact of pumpkin decoction on Trichinella spiralis in experimentally infected mice. The anthelmintic action of pumpkin decoction (500 mg/kg) was determined using T. spiralis infected mice in enteric phase for 5 days. Pumpkin decoction anthelmintic activity fortified by mixing with honey (1:1). Pumpkin decoction and Pumpkin decoction-honey mixture were evaluated by comprising with reference drug, albendazole (50 mg/kg). The T. spiralis adult count was significantly lower in all treated groups, with the pumpkin decoction-honey mixture showing the largest reduction (83.2%) when compared to the infected group (P ≤ 0.001). The intestinal histological changes and the level of COX-2 expression in the intestinal tissue were both significantly reduced in the same group. The pumpkin decoction improved the immune response, as evidenced by a significant decrease in nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and a significant increase in the expression of the transforming growth factor (TGF-1β) and interleukin-17 (IL-17). The pumpkin decoction's anthelmintic action was facilitated by the TGF-1β and IL-17-driven Weep and Sweep mechanism. Both administration of pumpkin decoction beside honey showed the best treatment group that resulted in high infection reduction besides amelioration of biochemical markers and restoration of histological to normal state. In conclusion, pumpkin decoction is highly effective against T. spiralis which could be a promising alternative herbal drug and the pumpkin decoction effect was higher in the case of combination with honey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aml S Saleh
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Samah A El-Newary
- Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St. (Former EL Tahrir St.), Dokki, P.O. 12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - Walaa A Mohamed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdelbaset M Elgamal
- Department of Chemistry of Microbial and Natural Products, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mona A Farah
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Women for Arts, Science and Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Mounes HAM, Abd-El Azeem ZMA, Abd El-Bary DA, Al-Sagheer AA, Abd-Elhakim YM, Hassan BA, Sadek SS, Ahmed KM. Effect of Substituting Soybean Meal in Oreochromis niloticus Diets with Pumpkin ( Cucurbita maxima) Seed Cake on Water Quality, Growth, Antioxidant Capacity, Immunity, and Carcass Composition. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:195. [PMID: 38254364 PMCID: PMC10812734 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
A 10-week feeding experiment was performed to determine the impacts of partial substitution of soybean meal (SB) with pumpkin seed cake (PSC) in Oreochromis niloticus diets on water quality, growth rate, antioxidant capacity, immunity, and carcass composition. One hundred and fifty tilapia fish (average weight, 11.93 ± 0.17 g) were randomly allocated to five diets. The first diet (the basal diet) contained 420 g of SB per kg of feed. The remaining four diets, namely, D1, D2, D3, and D4, had SB partially replaced by PSC at 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%, respectively. The results revealed that D4 and D1 significantly improved dissolved oxygen levels, while water temperature, pH, total ammonia, and nitrate levels were not significantly affected. Replacing SB with PSC significantly improved specific growth performance indicators and feed conversion compared to the control, with the D4 group showing the best values. Increasing PSC levels decreased serum glucose, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. In contrast, the D4 group had higher globulin, albumin, total protein, and lysozyme serum levels. Moreover, fish-fed PSC had significantly increased superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase activities and significantly decreased malondialdehyde levels. Increasing PSC substitution levels in fish diets increased the ash and crude lipid contents in the bodies of the fish, while crude protein and moisture decreased. In conclusion, replacing SB with PSC in fish diets significantly enhances growth performance, feed conversion, and fish health. Moreover, the findings suggest that PSC can be a promising alternative protein source for sustainable aquaculture practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossam A. M. Mounes
- Limnology Department, Central Laboratory for Aquaculture Research, Agricultural Research Center, Abassa, Abu Hammad 44662, Egypt
| | - Zeinab M. A. Abd-El Azeem
- Fish Production Branch, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11241, Egypt
| | - Dena. A. Abd El-Bary
- Regional Center for Food and Feed, Agricultural Research Center, Giza 12619, Egypt
| | - Adham A. Al-Sagheer
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt
| | - Yasmina M. Abd-Elhakim
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt;
| | - Bayan A. Hassan
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Future University, Cairo 11835, Egypt;
| | - Sherif S. Sadek
- Aquaculture Consultant Office, 9 Street No. 256, New-Maadi, Cairo 11435, Egypt;
| | - Kareem. M. Ahmed
- Fish Production Branch, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11241, Egypt
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Suwannapong A, Talubmook C, Promprom W. Evaluation of Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Activities of Fruit Pulp Extracts of Cucurbita moschata Duchesne and Cucurbita maxima Duchesne. ScientificWorldJournal 2023; 2023:1124606. [PMID: 37398913 PMCID: PMC10310460 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1124606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate and compare the antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of fruit pulp extracts from Cucurbita moschata (PCMOS) and Cucurbita maxima (PCMAX). Methods The antidiabetic activity was carried out in vivo by orally and daily giving the extracts at a dose of 500 mg/kg·b.w. to the streptozotocin-induced diabetic male albino Wistar rats for six weeks. After the period of administration, blood glucose levels, body weight, serum insulin, morphology of islets of Langerhans, biochemical parameters, and haematological values of the rats were determined. Meanwhile, the antioxidant activity was carried out in vitro by determination of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, DPPH radical scavenging activity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power. Results PCMAX significantly (p < 0.05) reduced blood glucose levels but increased the body weight, serum insulin levels, size and number of islets of Langerhans, and β-cell number of the treated diabetic rats more than PCMOS did. However, they did not alter biochemical parameters and haematological values of the treated diabetic rats. PCMAX possessed total phenolic and flavonoid contents and showed DPPH scavenging and FRAP reducing antioxidant power more significantly (p < 0.05) than PCMOS. Conclusions According to the obtained results, it is indicated that PCMOS and PCMAX possess antidiabetic and antioxidant activities. PCMAX possesses more potent antidiabetic and antioxidant activities than PCMOS. These are probably due to PCMAX providing polysaccharide and total phenolic and flavonoid contents more than PCMOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apinya Suwannapong
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
| | - Chusri Talubmook
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
| | - Wilawan Promprom
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
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Tomczyńska-Mleko M, Terpiłowski K, Pérez-Huertas S, Sapiga V, Polischuk G, Sołowiej B, Nastaj M, Wesołowska-Trojanowska M, Mleko S. Co-Gelation of Pumpkin-Seed Protein with Egg-White Protein. Foods 2023; 12:foods12102030. [PMID: 37238850 DOI: 10.3390/foods12102030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the gelation process of binary mixes of pumpkin-seed and egg-white proteins. The substitution of pumpkin-seed proteins with egg-white proteins improved the rheological properties of the obtained gels, i.e., a higher storage modulus, lower tangent delta, and larger ultrasound viscosity and hardness. Gels with a larger egg-white protein content were more elastic and more resistant to breaking structure. A higher concentration of pumpkin-seed protein changed the gel microstructure to a rougher and more particulate one. The microstructure was less homogenous, with a tendency to break at the pumpkin/egg-white protein gel interface. The decrease in the intensity of the amide II band with an increase in the pumpkin-seed protein concentration showed that the secondary structure of this protein evolved more toward a linear amino acid chain compared with the egg-white protein, which could have an impact on the microstructure. The supplementation of pumpkin-seed proteins with egg-white proteins caused a decrease in water activity from 0.985 to 0.928, which had important implications for the microbiological stability of the obtained gels. Strong correlations were found between the water activity and rheological properties of the gels; an improvement of their rheological properties resulted in a decrease in water activity. The supplementation of pumpkin-seed proteins with egg-white proteins resulted in more homogenous gels with a stronger microstructure and better water binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Tomczyńska-Mleko
- Institute of Plant Genetics, Breeding and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Str., 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Konrad Terpiłowski
- Department of Interfacial Phenomena, Maria Curie Skłodowska University, Maria Curie-Skłodowska 3 Sq., 20-031 Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Viktoria Sapiga
- Department of Technology Milk and Dairy Products, National University of Food Technologies, 68 Volodymyrska Str., 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Galina Polischuk
- Department of Technology Milk and Dairy Products, National University of Food Technologies, 68 Volodymyrska Str., 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Bartosz Sołowiej
- Department of Dairy Technology and Functional Foods, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Skromna 8, 20-704 Lublin, Poland
| | - Maciej Nastaj
- Department of Dairy Technology and Functional Foods, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Skromna 8, 20-704 Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Wesołowska-Trojanowska
- Department of Biotechnology, Microbiology and Human Nutrition, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Skromna 8, 20-704 Lublin, Poland
| | - Stanisław Mleko
- Department of Dairy Technology and Functional Foods, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Skromna 8, 20-704 Lublin, Poland
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El-Gendi H, Abu-Serie MM, Kamoun EA, Saleh AK, El-Fakharany EM. Statistical optimization and characterization of fucose-rich polysaccharides extracted from pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) along with antioxidant and antiviral activities. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 232:123372. [PMID: 36706886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Biologically active phytochemicals from pumpkin reveal versatile medical applications, though little is known about their antiviral activity. The fucose-rich polysaccharide extraction conditions were optimized through Box-Behnken design and purified by column chromatography. The purified fucose-rich polysaccharide was characterized through SEM, FT-IR, 1H NMR, XRD, TGA, and GS-MS. The analysis results revealed an irregular and porous surface of the purified polysaccharide with high fucose, rhamnose, galactose, and glucose contents. The tested fucose-rich polysaccharides revealed significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity at very low concentrations. The purified fucose-rich polysaccharides exerted a broad-spectrum antiviral activity against both DNA and RNA viruses, accompanied by high safety toward normal cells, where the maximum safe doses (EC100) were estimated to be about 3-3.9 mg/mL for both Vero and PBMC cell lines. Treatment of HCV, ADV7, HSV1, and HIV viruses with the purified polysaccharides showed a potent dose-dependent inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 95.475, 20.96, 5.213, and 461.75 μg/mL, respectively. This activity was hypothesized to be through inhibiting the viral entry in HCV infection and inhibiting the reverse transcriptase activity in HIV. The current study firstly reported the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activities of Cucurbita maxima fucose-rich polysaccharide against several viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamada El-Gendi
- Bioprocess Development Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Application (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab 21934, Alexandria, Egypt.
| | - Marwa M Abu-Serie
- Medical Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab 21934, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Elbadawy A Kamoun
- Nanotechnology Research Center (NTRC), The British University in Egypt (BUE), El-Sherouk City, Cairo 11837, Egypt; Polymeric Materials Research Department, Advanced Technology and New Materials Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab 21934, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ahmed K Saleh
- Cellulose and Paper Department, National Research Centre, El-Tahrir St., Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Esmail M El-Fakharany
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute GEBRI, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications, New Borg El-Arab 21934, Alexandria, Egypt.
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11
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Wahid S, Alqahtani A, Khan RA. Cucurbita maxima Seeds Reduce Anxiety and Depression and Improve Memory. Behav Neurol 2023; 2023:7509937. [PMID: 37006627 PMCID: PMC10060065 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7509937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study was planned to assess the neuropharmacological benefits of the Cucurbita maxima seed. These seeds have been conventionally used for the nutritional as well as amelioration of various diseases. However, there was a need to provide a pharmacological basis for such use. Four central nervous system-related functions, that is, anxiety, depression, memory, and motor coordination, were evaluated, and the levels of brain biogenic amines were also assessed. Anxiety was evaluated through selected experimental models, such as light and dark apparatus, elevated plus maze, head dip, and open field test. The head dip test was mainly used to assess exploratory behavior. Depression was assessed by two animal models, that is, the forced swim test and tail suspension test. Memory and learning ability were assessed by the passive avoidance test, stationary rod apparatus, and Morris's water maze test. Motor skilled learning was assessed by stationary rod and rotarod apparatus. Reversed phase high-pressure liquid chromatography was used to determine biogenic amine levels. Results reveal that C. maxima exhibited anxiolytic and antidepressant effects with memory improvement. There was a reduction in the weight of the animal following chronic administration. Furthermore, no remarkable effects were observed on motor coordination. Norepinephrine was found elevated, which may be linked to its antidepressant effects. These biological effects of C. maxima may be due to the presence of secondary metabolites, such as cucurbitacin, beta-sitosterol, polyphenolic compounds, citrulline, kaempferol, arginine, β-carotene, quercetin, and other antioxidants. The outcomes of the present study authenticate that the chronic use of C. maxima seeds reduces the intensity of neurological problems like anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahana Wahid
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University Lyari, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ali Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Guraiger, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rafeeq Alam Khan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University Education City, Link Road, Karachi, Pakistan
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12
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Rinaldi M, Dhenge R, Rodolfi M, Bertani G, Bernini V, Dall’Acqua S, Ganino T. Understanding the Impact of High-Pressure Treatment on Physico-Chemical, Microstructural, and Microbiological Aspects of Pumpkin Cubes. Foods 2023; 12:foods12061280. [PMID: 36981207 PMCID: PMC10048263 DOI: 10.3390/foods12061280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study color, texture, starch–pectin, total antioxidant capacity, microbial count, and microstructure of HPP-treated Violina pumpkin cubes were evaluated. Samples were treated at six different pressures (100 to 600 MPa–HPP100 to HPP600) for 3 min. Moisture, total soluble solids, and pH showed no significant differences between untreated (UNTR) and treated samples. Pumpkin tissue showed great structural modifications as changes in cell size and shape, cell wall damage, increased cell wall thickness, cell detachment and dehydration, and calcium ions deposition mainly from HPP300 to 600. UNTR samples showed the highest value of maximum and minimum cell elongation, perimeter segment, and a more regular cell wall thickness whereas HPP600 showed the lowest values for all these parameters. A noticeable difference was observed in HPP600 samples, with a difference in terms of color (ΔE 11.3 ± 1.9) and hardness (87.4 ± 27.8 N) compared to the UNTR ones (194.9 ± 37.9 N) whereas treatments at other pressures changed less markedly the color and texture. HPP200 could ensure a higher amount of starch and pectin availability while HPP200 and HPP400 showed the highest total antioxidants capacity. High-pressure treatment from HPP400 to 600 gave the highest destruction of microorganisms but negatively influenced the structural quality as well as texture and microstructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Rinaldi
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Fax: +39-0521-906028; Tel.: +39-0521-905846
| | - Rohini Dhenge
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Margherita Rodolfi
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Gaia Bertani
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Valentina Bernini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Stefano Dall’Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Tommaso Ganino
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124 Parma, Italy
- National Research Council, Institute of BioEconomy (IBE), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
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13
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Jalili M, Nazari M, Magkos F. Fermented Foods in the Management of Obesity: Mechanisms of Action and Future Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032665. [PMID: 36768984 PMCID: PMC9916812 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Fermented foods are part of the staple diet in many different countries and populations and contain various probiotic microorganisms and non-digestible prebiotics. Fermentation is the process of breaking down sugars by bacteria and yeast species; it not only enhances food preservation but can also increase the number of beneficial gut bacteria. Regular consumption of fermented foods has been associated with a variety of health benefits (although some health risks also exist), including improved digestion, enhanced immunity, and greater weight loss, suggesting that fermented foods have the potential to help in the design of effective nutritional therapeutic approaches for obesity. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the health effects of fermented foods and the corresponding mechanisms of action in obesity and obesity-related metabolic abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Jalili
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, University of Copenhagen, 1165 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maryam Nazari
- Food Safety Research Center (Salt), Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan JF62+4W5, Iran
| | - Faidon Magkos
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise, and Sports, University of Copenhagen, 1165 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence:
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14
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Assessment of the Transfer of Elemental Contaminants from Contiguous Soils to Pumpkin Seeds by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. Pharm Chem J 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11094-023-02797-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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15
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Hussain A, Kausar T, Sehar S, Sarwar A, Quddoos MY, Aslam J, Liaqat A, Siddique T, An QU, Kauser S, Rehman A, Nisar R. A review on biochemical constituents of pumpkin and their role as pharma foods; a key strategy to improve health in post COVID 19 period. FOOD PRODUCTION, PROCESSING AND NUTRITION 2023; 5:22. [PMCID: PMC10030350 DOI: 10.1186/s43014-023-00138-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Progression of today’s world has been given setback due to the adversity of a novel, viral, deadly outbreak COVID 19, which raised the concerns of the scientists, researchers and health related officials about the inherent and adaptive immune system of the living body and its relation with healthy diet balanced with pharma foods. Now world is coming out of the destructive pandemic era, the choice of right food can help to build and boost adaptive immunity and pumpkin due to excellent profile of functional and nutraceutical constituents could be the part of both infected and non-infected person’s daily diet. Vitamins like A, C and E, minerals like zinc, iron and selenium, essential oils, peptides, carotenoids and polysaccharides present in pumpkin could accommodate the prevailing deficiencies in the body to fought against the viral pathogens. In current post COVID 19 scenario adequate supply of healthy diet, balanced with pharma foods could play a basic role in boosting immune system of the populations. This review covers the pharmacological activities of pumpkin functional constituents in relation with COVID 19 pandemic. Pumpkins are well equipped with nutraceuticals and functional bioactives like tocopherols, polyphenols, terpenoids and lutein therefore, consumption and processing of this remarkable vegetable could be encouraged as pharma food due to its antihyperlipidemic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antihyperglycemic, immunomodulatory, antihypertensive, antimicrobial and antioxidant potential. Need of healthy eating in current post COVID 19 period is very crucial for healthy population, and medicinal foods like pumpkin could play a vital role in developing a healthy community around the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashiq Hussain
- grid.412782.a0000 0004 0609 4693Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
- Punjab Food Authority, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Tusneem Kausar
- grid.412782.a0000 0004 0609 4693Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Sawera Sehar
- grid.440564.70000 0001 0415 4232Department of Zoology, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Sarwar
- grid.412782.a0000 0004 0609 4693Institute of Chemistry, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Yousaf Quddoos
- grid.412782.a0000 0004 0609 4693Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Jawed Aslam
- grid.412782.a0000 0004 0609 4693Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Atif Liaqat
- grid.510450.5Institute of Food Science and Technology, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
| | | | - Qurat Ul An
- grid.412782.a0000 0004 0609 4693Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Samina Kauser
- grid.412782.a0000 0004 0609 4693Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Rehman
- grid.412782.a0000 0004 0609 4693Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Rizwan Nisar
- grid.412782.a0000 0004 0609 4693Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
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16
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Funneliformis mosseae Inoculation Enhances Cucurbita pepo L. Plant Growth and Fruit Yield by Reshaping Rhizosphere Microbial Community Structure. DIVERSITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/d14110932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are essential components of the soil microbiome that can facilitate plant growth and enhance abiotic and biotic stress resistance. However, the mechanisms via which AMF inoculation influences Cucurbita pepo L. plant growth and fruit yield remain unclear. Here, we conducted pot experiments to investigate bacterial and fungal community structure in the rhizosphere of C. pepo plants inoculated with Funneliformis mosseae (Nicoll. & Gerd.) Gerd. & Trappe based on 16S ribosomal RNA and internal transcribed spacer gene sequencing. The α-diversity of bacteria increased significantly following F. mosseae inoculation, whereas the α-diversity of fungi exhibited an opposite trend (p < 0.01). The relative abundances of major bacterial phyla, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Chloroflexi, together with the fungal phylum Ascomycota, were all higher in inoculated samples than in uninoculated controls. F. mosseae inoculation led to remarkable enrichment of potentially beneficial taxa (e.g., Streptomyces, Sphingomonas, Lysobacter, and Trichoderma), in stark contrast to depletion of fungal pathogens (e.g., Botryotrichum, Acremonium, Fusarium, and Plectosphaerella). Pathways related to amino acid metabolism and antibiotic biosynthesis were upregulated by F. mosseae inoculation, whereas pathways involved in infectious diseases were downregulated. The results suggest that F. mosseae inoculation reshapes the rhizosphere microbiome, thereby augmenting C. pepo plant growth and fruit yield.
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17
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Šamec D, Loizzo MR, Gortzi O, Çankaya İT, Tundis R, Suntar İ, Shirooie S, Zengin G, Devkota HP, Reboredo-Rodríguez P, Hassan STS, Manayi A, Kashani HRK, Nabavi SM. The potential of pumpkin seed oil as a functional food-A comprehensive review of chemical composition, health benefits, and safety. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2022; 21:4422-4446. [PMID: 35904246 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The growing interest in foods that can be beneficial to human health is bringing into focus some products that have been used locally for centuries but have recently gained worldwide attention. One of these foods is pumpkin seed oil, which has been used in culinary and traditional medicine, but recent data also show its use in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. In addition, some sources refer to it as a potential functional food, mainly because it is obtained from pumpkin seeds, which contain many functional components. However, the production process of the oil may affect the content of these components and consequently the biological activity of the oil. In this review, we have focused on summarizing scientific data that explore the potential of pumpkin seed oil as a functional food ingredient. We provide a comprehensive overview of pumpkin seed oil chemical composition, phytochemical content, biological activity, and safety, as well as the overview of production processes and contemporary use. The main phytochemicals in pumpkin seed oil with health-related properties are polyphenols, phytoestrogens, and fatty acids, but carotenoids, squalene, tocopherols, and minerals may also contribute to health benefits. Most studies have been conducted in vitro and support the claim that pumpkin seed oil has antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Clinical studies have shown that pumpkin seed oil may be beneficial in the treatment of cardiovascular problems of menopausal women and ailments associated with imbalance of sex hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dunja Šamec
- Department of Food Technology, University Center Koprivnica, University North, Koprivnica, Croatia
| | - Monica Rosa Loizzo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Olga Gortzi
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture Crop Production and Rural Environment, University of Thessaly, Volos, Greece
| | - İrem Tatlı Çankaya
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Rosa Tundis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - İpek Suntar
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Samira Shirooie
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Gokhan Zengin
- Department of Biology, Science Faculty, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Hari Prasad Devkota
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Japan
| | | | - Sherif T S Hassan
- Department of Applied Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Azadeh Manayi
- Medicinal Plants Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Seyed Mohammad Nabavi
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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18
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In Vitro Role of Pumpkin Parts as Pharma-Foods: Antihyperglycemic and Antihyperlipidemic Activities of Pumpkin Peel, Flesh, and Seed Powders, in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE 2022; 2022:4804408. [PMID: 35959224 PMCID: PMC9363229 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4804408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Pumpkin is a well-known vegetable, among the members of Cucurbitaceae family, due to its importance as pharma food. Keeping in view the antidiabetic and plasma lipids lowering potential of pumpkin, the present study was conducted to investigate that, which part of pumpkin (peel, flesh, and seeds), possess more bioactive compounds, exhibiting antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic potential. Albino rats with 190-210 g body weight were divided into 11 groups. Five rats were included in each group; group A was negative control, group B was positive control, and groups C to K were diabetic rats fed with pumpkin peel, flesh, and seed powders. Diabetes was induced in rats with the help of alloxan monohydrate. During 28 days of experimental period, blood glucose level of different rat's groups was checked with the help of glucometer, at every 7 days interval and at the end of 28 days study, plasma lipids were checked with the help of commercial kits. A significant decrease in blood glucose level (128.33 ± 1.67 mg/dl), TC (88.43 ± 0.66 mg/dl), TG (69.79 ± 0.49 mg/dl), and LDL-C (21.45 ± 0.08 mg/dl) was recorded in rat groups fed with 15 g pumpkin seed powder, at the end of study. After pumpkin seeds, second significant antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effect was recorded in rat's groups fed with 15 g pumpkin peel powder. Pumpkin flesh powder effect in lowering blood glucose level and plasma lipids was less significant as compared to seeds and peel powder. As the dose of the pumpkin powders was increased from 5 to 10 and then 15 g, the blood glucose-lowering and plasma lipid-lowering effect became more significant. Similarly, as the experimental duration was expanded from first week to 28 days, this antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effect became more significant. These results were sufficient to conclude that pumpkin has high potential to be used in human diet to cope with noncommunicable diseases like diabetes and hypercholesterolemia.
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Derbalah A, Abdelsalam I, Behiry SI, Abdelkhalek A, Abdelfatah M, Ismail S, Elsharkawy MM. Copper oxide nanostructures as a potential method for control of zucchini yellow mosaic virus in squash. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:3587-3595. [PMID: 35598074 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV) infects cucurbits and has been identified as a major limiting factor in their production. The purpose of this study was to create copper oxide nanostructures (CONS) to control ZYMV in squash plants. Protection of squash against ZYMV was assessed in terms of virus severity, ZYMV concentration, transcription of pathogenesis-related genes and growth enhancement of treated squash. RESULTS The findings revealed that squash plants treated with CONS had a significant reduction in disease severity when compared with untreated plants. In squash plants treated with CONS, defense genes associated with the salicylic acid signaling pathway were strongly expressed compared with untreated plants. The structural characteristics of CONS, such as their small size and appropriate shape, added to their excellent anti-ZYMV efficacy. CONS-treated squash plants show significantly improved growth traits compared with untreated plants. CONCLUSION Based on the results of this study, CONS may be a new strategy for the control of ZYMV in squash. This represents an unconventional solution to control this virus, particularly as no chemical pesticides can control viral diseases. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aly Derbalah
- Pesticides Chemistry and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr Elsheikh, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Abdelsalam
- Pesticides Chemistry and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr Elsheikh, Egypt
| | - Said I Behiry
- Agricultural Botany Department, Faculty of Agriculture (Saba Basha), Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Abdelkhalek
- Plant Protection and Biomolecular Diagnosis Department, ALCRI, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications SRTA-City, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Sherin Ismail
- Chemistry Department, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Mohsen Mohamed Elsharkawy
- Agricultural Botany Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr Elsheikh, Egypt
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20
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Stajčić S, Lato P, Čanadanović-Brunet J, Ćetković G, Mandić A, Tumbas Šaponjac V, Vulić J, Šeregelj V, Petrović J. Encapsulation of bioactive compounds extracted from Cucurbita moschata pumpkin waste: The multi-objective optimization study. J Microencapsul 2022; 39:380-393. [PMID: 35748817 DOI: 10.1080/02652048.2022.2094485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM Artificial neural network (ANN) development to find optimal carriers (pea protein-P, maltodextrin-M, and inulin-I) mixture for encapsulation of pumpkin waste bioactives (β-carotene and phenolics). METHODS Freeze-drying encapsulation and encapsulates characterisation in terms of bioactives contents and encapsulation efficiencies, water activity, hygroscopicity, densities, flowability, cohesiveness, particle size (laser diffraction), solubility, color (CIELab), morphological (SEM), stability and release properties. RESULTS Optimal encapsulates, OE-T (with highest total bioactives contents; P, M, and I of 53.9, 46.1, and 0%w/w) and OE-EE (with highest bioactives encapsulation efficiencies; P, M, and I of 45.5, 32.0, and 22.5%w/w) had particle diameters of 94.561 ± 1.341µm and 90.206 ± 0.571µm, span of 1.777 ± 0.094 and 1.588 ± 0.089, highest release at pH 7.4 of phenolics of 71.03%w/w after 72h and 66.22%w/w after 48h, and β-carotene of 43.67%w/w after 8h and 48.62%w/w after 6h, respectively. CONCLUSION ANN model for prediction of encapsulates' preparation, showed good anticipation properties (with gained determination coefficients of 1.000).
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Affiliation(s)
- Slađana Stajčić
- University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technology, Bulevar Cara Lazara 1, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Pezo Lato
- University of Belgrade, Institute of General and Physical Chemistry, Studenski trg 12/V, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Gordana Ćetković
- University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technology, Bulevar Cara Lazara 1, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Anamarija Mandić
- University of Novi Sad, Institute for Food Technology in Novi Sad, Bulevar Cara Lazara 1, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Vesna Tumbas Šaponjac
- University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technology, Bulevar Cara Lazara 1, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Jelena Vulić
- University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technology, Bulevar Cara Lazara 1, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Vanja Šeregelj
- University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technology, Bulevar Cara Lazara 1, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Jovana Petrović
- University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technology, Bulevar Cara Lazara 1, Novi Sad, Serbia
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21
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Pumpkin seed proteins (Cucurbita pepo L.) protect against diet-induced metabolic syndrome by improving insulin resistance and markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in rats. Biologia (Bratisl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11756-022-01112-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AbstractPumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) seeds are enriched in bioactive compounds having functional properties. The aim of this study was to analyze the pumpkin seed proteins (PSP) effects on insulin resistance, oxidative stress damage and inflammation in rats with high fructose-induced metabolic syndrome.Twenty four male Wistar rats, fed isoenergetic diets supplemented with: (1) 20% casein (C); (2) 20% casein and 1 g/kg/day PSP (P); (3) 20% casein and 64% D-fructose (C-HF); (4) 20% casein, 1 g/kg/day PSP and 64% D-fructose (P-HF). After 8 weeks of treatment, fructose supply impaired white adipose tissue (WAT) weight, deteriorated glucose tolerance and tAUC, plasma glucose, insulin, insulinogenic index, HOMA-IR and HOMA-β, antioxidant status, lipid and protein oxidation, plasma TNF-α and IL-6 as compared to control diets. Interestingly, rats assigned to the PSPs diet with or without fructose displayed lower plasma glucose, insulin and fructose, improved tolerance of glucose, tAUC, HOMA-IR and HOMA-β and increased insulinogenic index as compared to C diets. PSPs consumption lowered thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, hydroperoxides and carbonyls in WAT and carbonyls in muscle. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase in WAT were significantly diminished in P-HF but increased in P as compared to C-HF and C. Rats fed P-HF diet had low catalase in WAT and high in muscle than those fed C-HF. Moreover, catalase activity increased in muscle but decreased in WAT in P group than in C group. In conclusion, pumpkin seed proteins exhibit favorable effects on metabolic disorders of fructose-induced metabolic syndrome, suggesting a key role in disease therapy.
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Huerta-Reyes M, Tavera-Hernández R, Alvarado-Sansininea JJ, Jiménez-Estrada M. Selected Species of the Cucurbitaceae Family Used in Mexico for the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus. Molecules 2022; 27:3440. [PMID: 35684376 PMCID: PMC9182361 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27113440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In Mexico, Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a serious health problem, and although the current pharmacological treatments for DM such as insulin and oral hypoglycemics are available, the Mexican population continues to use medicinal plants in the treatment of DM. The antidiabetic properties of the plant species that belong to the Cucurbitaceae family has already been recognized worldwide. Since Mexico is one of the most important centers of diversity of Cucurbitaceae, the present work contributes to the review of the most used species of Cucurbitaceae in the treatment of DM in Mexico. The reviewed species (Cucurbita ficifolia, C. maxima, C. moschata, C. pepo, Ibervillea sonorae, Sechium edule, Citrullus lanatus, Cucumis melo, and C. sativus) revealed that the antidiabetic effects exerted are effective in a number of mechanisms involved in the complex pathogenesis of DM: hypoglycemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, protective effects on diverse organs and cells, as well as in the control of dyslipidemias; furthermore, the select species of the Cucurbitaceae family could also be essential components of diets for the control of DM in patients with the disease. Thus, the Cucurbitaceae species selected in the present work represent a source of antidiabetic agents that perhaps establish the bases for novel clinical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maira Huerta-Reyes
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Nefrológicas, Hospital de Especialidades “Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda Gutiérrez”, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México 06720, Mexico
| | - Rosario Tavera-Hernández
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (R.T.-H.); (M.J.-E.)
| | - J. Javier Alvarado-Sansininea
- Herbario FEZA, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Batalla de 5 de Mayo S/N, Col. Ejército de Oriente, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico;
| | - Manuel Jiménez-Estrada
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (R.T.-H.); (M.J.-E.)
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Batool M, Ranjha MMAN, Roobab U, Manzoor MF, Farooq U, Nadeem HR, Nadeem M, Kanwal R, AbdElgawad H, Al Jaouni SK, Selim S, Ibrahim SA. Nutritional Value, Phytochemical Potential, and Therapeutic Benefits of Pumpkin ( Cucurbita sp.). PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:1394. [PMID: 35684166 PMCID: PMC9182978 DOI: 10.3390/plants11111394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Pumpkin is a well-known multifunctional ingredient in the diet, full of nutrients, and has opened new vistas for scientists during the past years. The fruit of pumpkin including the flesh, seed, and peel are a rich source of primary and secondary metabolites, including proteins, carbohydrates, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, carotenoids, tocopherols, tryptophan, delta-7-sterols, and many other phytochemicals. This climber is traditionally used in many countries, such as Austria, Hungary, Mexico, Slovenia, China, Spain, and several Asian and African countries as a functional food and provides health promising properties. Other benefits of pumpkin, such as improving spermatogenesis, wound healing, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, anti-ulcerative properties, and treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia have also been confirmed by researchers. For better drug delivery, nanoemulsions and niosomes made from pumpkin seeds have also been reported as a health promising tool, but further research is still required in this field. This review mainly focuses on compiling and summarizing the most relevant literature to highlight the nutritional value, phytochemical potential, and therapeutic benefits of pumpkin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Batool
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, University of Lahore, Gujrat 50700, Pakistan;
| | | | - Ume Roobab
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China; (U.R.); (R.K.)
| | | | - Umar Farooq
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan 59300, Pakistan;
| | - Hafiz Rehan Nadeem
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 59300, Pakistan;
| | - Muhammad Nadeem
- Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha 40100, Pakistan; (M.M.A.N.R.); (M.N.)
| | - Rabia Kanwal
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China; (U.R.); (R.K.)
| | - Hamada AbdElgawad
- Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, 2020 Antwerpen, Belgium;
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62511, Egypt
| | - Soad K. Al Jaouni
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Yousef Abdulatif Jameel Scientific Chair of Prophetic Medicine Application, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Samy Selim
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salam A. Ibrahim
- Food Microbiology and Biotechnology Laboratory, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA
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Mohammed Ali Hasan D, Hasoon BA, Abdulwahab AI, Jawad KH. Biological activities of Ethanolic Extract Produced by Cucurbita pepo plant. BIONATURA 2022. [DOI: 10.21931/rb/2022.07.02.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibacterial and antioxidant effects of alcoholic extract for the Cucurbita pepo plant were studied. Properties optical (UV-visible spectrophotometer ) and morphological surface(scanning electron microscopy ) detection of the alcoholic extract was done, and the antibacterial activity was investigated against pathogenic microbes (E.coli, Staphylococcus aureus). Results showed the highest effect for crud extract in the growth of E.coli by the zone of inhibition diameter reached (16.33±0.58 ), followed by Staph. Aureus by the diameter of the inhibition zone reached (12.33±2.30mm). The results indicate that the plant C. pepo can be considered a valuable source of effective antioxidant agents at a 0.8 µg/ml concentration.
Keywords. Cucurbita pepo plant: Alcoholic extract: Antioxidant: Antibacterial Activity
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kareem H. Jawad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomechanical Branch, University of Technology-Iraq
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Effect of Fermented Camel Milk Containing Pumpkin Seed Milk on the Oxidative Stress Induced by Carbon Tetrachloride in Experimental Rats. FERMENTATION 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/fermentation8050223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress can lead to chronic inflammation, nephrotoxicity, and renal damage. The consumption of plant-based dairy alternatives has increased rapidly worldwide due to their health effects. Bioactive components from natural sources, such as plants, are effective in protecting against oxidative stress. The present study evaluated the physicochemical and sensory properties of fermented camel milk made from camel milk mixed with pumpkin seed milk. Fermented camel milk consists of camel milk mixed with 25% and 50% pumpkin seed milk. This blend (fermented camel milk containing 50% pumpkin seed milk) was evaluated as an antioxidant agent in oxidative stress induced rats. A total of thirty-two male adult albino rats of Sprague Dawley® Rat strain weighing 150–180 g were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8). The first group was solely administered the standard diet and served as the negative control. The other rats (n = 24), received a basal diet, including being intraperitoneally injected with carbon tetrachloride, with a single dose at a rate of 2 mL/kg body weight) as a model for oxidative stress. The oxidative stress rats were divided into three groups; the first group did not receive any treatment and served as the positive control. The second and third groups were administered 10 g/day fermented camel milk and fermented camel milk containing 50% pumpkin seed milk. The results revealed that mixing the camel milk with pumpkin seed milk was more effective in increasing the total solids, protein, ash, fiber, acidity, viscosity, phenolic content, and antioxidant activity. These enhancements were proportional to the mixing ratio. Fermented camel milk containing 50% pumpkin seed milk exhibited the highest scores for sensory properties compared with the other fermented camel milk treatments. The group of rats with oxidative stress treated with fermented camel milk containing 50% pumpkin seed milk showed a significant decrease (p ≤ 0.05) in the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol (CL), triglycerides (TGs), AST, ALT, creatinine, and urea, and increased (p ≤ 0.05) high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and total protein and albumin compared with rats with oxidative stress. Consumption of fermented camel milk containing 50% pumpkin seed milk by the oxidative stress rat groups caused significant improvement in all of these factors compared with the positive control group. This study revealed that the administration of fermented camel milk containing 50% pumpkin seed milk to rats with oxidative stress prevented disorders related to oxidative stress compared with the untreated oxidative stress group. Thus, incorporating fermented camel milk might play a beneficial role in patients with oxidative stress.
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Chenni A, Cherif FZH, Chenni K, Elius EE, Pucci L, Yahia DA. Effects of Pumpkin ( Cucurbita pepo L.) Seed Protein on Blood Pressure, Plasma Lipids, Leptin, Adiponectin, and Oxidative Stress in Rats with Fructose-Induced Metabolic Syndrome. Prev Nutr Food Sci 2022; 27:78-88. [PMID: 35465120 PMCID: PMC9007700 DOI: 10.3746/pnf.2022.27.1.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluates the potential effects of pumpkin seeds protein on blood pressure (BP), plasma adiponectin, leptin levels, and oxidative stress in rats with fructose-induced metabolic syndrome. Twenty four male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups and fed a 20% casein diet, 20% casein diet supplemented with pumpkin protein, 20% casein diet with 64% D-fructose, or 20% casein diet with pumpkin protein and 64% D-fructose for 8 weeks. Contin-uous fructose feeding induced an increase in plasma insulin/glucose ratio, BP, insulin and glucose, aspartate aminotrans-ferase, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatinine, urea, and uric acid levels, and a decrease in the liver and muscle glycogen stores. In addition, elevated levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and leptin and lowered adiponectin levels were observed in rats fed a fructose-enriched diet. These groups also exhibited lower plasma levels of ascorbic acid and glutathione, higher thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, hydroperoxide, carbonyl, and nitric oxide in both the liver and kidneys than rats fed the control diet. Interestingly, pumpkin seed protein treatment significantly counteracted alterations induced by fructose improving glucose, insulin, BP, TG, TC, ALT, and ALP levels, increasing liver and muscle glycogen stores, adiponectin level, and adiponectin/leptin ratio, and reducing plasma leptin lev-els. In addition, rats fed pumpkin protein with a high-fructose diet improved oxidative stress in the liver and kidneys. In conclusion, proteins from Cucurbita pepo L. seeds effectively improve metabolic parameters and protect against oxidative stress induced by a high-fructose diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelkader Chenni
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, Oran University of Science and Technology-Mohamed Boudiaf, Bir El Djir 31000, Algeria
| | - Fatima Zohr Hamza Cherif
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Oran1-Ahmed Ben Bella, Oran 31000, Algeria
| | - Karima Chenni
- Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oran1-Ahmed Ben Bella, Oran 31000, Algeria
| | - Elif Erdogan Elius
- Department of Food Technology, Technical Sciences Vocational School, Mersin University, Mersin 33110, Turkey
| | - Laura Pucci
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council, Pisa 56124, Italy
| | - Dalila Ait Yahia
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Oran1-Ahmed Ben Bella, Oran 31000, Algeria
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Ezin V, Gbemenou UH, Ahanchede A. Characterization of cultivated pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchesne) landraces for genotypic variance, heritability and agro-morphological traits. Saudi J Biol Sci 2022; 29:3661-3674. [PMID: 35844434 PMCID: PMC9280217 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2022.02.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cucurbita moschata (Pumpkin) is a multipurpose species whose fruits and sometimes oil seeds are used for various purposes. It is low in calories and is a significant source of income. Despite the great potential of the pumpkin production and usage, there is no attention to establish the varieties grown in Benin for proper documentation. Therefore, the present study was carried out to (i) evaluate the agro-morphological variability of pumpkin accessions collected in Benin and (ii) investigate heritability, genetic gain, phenotypic and genotypic variances of the agronomic traits. Six landraces from one hundred and twenty accessions collected in Benin were sown and characterized. The agronomic experiment was laid out in a complete randomized block design with three replicates. Out of the twenty-seven quantitative descriptors measured, fifteen were found to be significant. The 50% emergence time (p = 0.03), the number of female flowers (p = 0.02), the seed width (p = 0.05) and the ratio seed width and length (p = 0.01) were significant. A highly significant difference was observed with the days to 50% flowering and the length of male flower stalks (p = 0.002), the average weight of one hundred seeds (p = 0.009). Fruit set at 50%, length of female flower peduncle, number of male flowers, mean fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, average number of seeds per fruit and seed length were very highly significant (p < 0.001). Fruit color and shape, seed color and leaf color showed phenotypic variability. A positive correlation (r = 0.76; p < 0.05) was observed between average fruit weight and average number of seeds per fruit. Principal component analysis and Hierarchical Ascending Classification revealed three classes. Estimates of the phenotypic coefficient of variation were higher than estimates of the genotypic coefficient of variation for most characters. High heritability was observed for fruit diameter (96.73%), average fruit weight (96.46%) and fruit length (94.64%). High heritability associated with high genetic advance was observed for these traits. In sum, the genetic diversity observed within the landraces of pumpkin shows that there is possibility for further selection.
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Yüksel Ç, Atalay D, Erge HS. The effects of chitosan coating and vacuum packaging on quality of fresh‐cut pumpkin slices during storage. J FOOD PROCESS PRES 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/jfpp.16365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Çiğdem Yüksel
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Letters Manisa Celal Bayar University Manisa Turkey
| | - Derya Atalay
- Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University Bolu Turkey
| | - Hande Selen Erge
- Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University Bolu Turkey
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Abstract
Sustainable food supply has gained considerable consumer concern due to the high percentage of spoilage microorganisms. Food industries need to expand advanced technologies that can maintain the nutritive content of foods, enhance the bio-availability of bioactive compounds, provide environmental and economic sustainability, and fulfill consumers’ requirements of sensory characteristics. Heat treatment negatively affects food samples’ nutritional and sensory properties as bioactives are sensitive to high-temperature processing. The need arises for non-thermal processes to reduce food losses, and sustainable developments in preservation, nutritional security, and food safety are crucial parameters for the upcoming era. Non-thermal processes have been successfully approved because they increase food quality, reduce water utilization, decrease emissions, improve energy efficiency, assure clean labeling, and utilize by-products from waste food. These processes include pulsed electric field (PEF), sonication, high-pressure processing (HPP), cold plasma, and pulsed light. This review describes the use of HPP in various processes for sustainable food processing. The influence of this technique on microbial, physicochemical, and nutritional properties of foods for sustainable food supply is discussed. This approach also emphasizes the limitations of this emerging technique. HPP has been successfully analyzed to meet the global requirements. A limited global food source must have a balanced approach to the raw content, water, energy, and nutrient content. HPP showed positive results in reducing microbial spoilage and, at the same time, retains the nutritional value. HPP technology meets the essential requirements for sustainable and clean labeled food production. It requires limited resources to produce nutritionally suitable foods for consumers’ health.
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Umavathi S, Keerthika M, Gopinath K, Kavitha C, Romij Uddin M, Alagumanian S, Balalakshmi C. Optimization of aqueous-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from pumpkin ( Cucurbita moschata Duch) and their biological activities. Saudi J Biol Sci 2021; 28:6692-6700. [PMID: 34866967 PMCID: PMC8626294 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The pumpkin pulp contains a greater composition of edible polysaccharides and has reported with excellent biological applications. This research pertains to optimize the extraction of polysaccharides from the fleshy portion of the pumpkin using aqueous assisted extraction (AAE). The result showed that the optimal extraction condition of pumpkin polysaccharide was as follows: extraction temperature at 55 °C, pH 4.5, and enzyme concentration of 4000 µ/g for 80 min. Under the optimal extraction condition, the yield of pumpkin polysaccharide via AAE (15.4) was significantly higher. The biological activities of extracted polysaccharide including α-amylase inhibition (57.41% at 1000 µg/mL) and anti-inflammatory (50.41% at 25 µg/mL) activity increased significantly. Additionally, the antioxidant activities of extracted pumpkin polysaccharides including IC50 values of DPPH and ABTS were 59.87% and 58.74%, respectively. The pumpkin polysaccharide has maximum inhibitory effects against bacterial strains especially for Escherichia coli than that of fungal strains. It is suggested that the aqueous assisted extraction of is a cost-effective promising method to decrease the processing time as well as enhancing extracted polysaccharide yield – times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saraswathi Umavathi
- Department of Botany, Adhiyaman Arts and Science College for Women, Uthangarai 635207, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Madhayan Keerthika
- Department of Botany, Adhiyaman Arts and Science College for Women, Uthangarai 635207, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kasi Gopinath
- School of Materials and Energy, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China
| | - Chandramohan Kavitha
- Department of Chemistry, Adhiyaman Arts and Science College for Women, Uthangarai 635207, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Md Romij Uddin
- Department of Agronomy, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Shanmugam Alagumanian
- PG and Research Department of Botany, H.H. The Rajah's College (Autonomous), Pudukkottai 622001, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Chinnasamy Balalakshmi
- Department of Nanoscience and Technology, Alagappa University, Karaikudi 630003, Tamil Nadu, India
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Dike CS, Orish CN, Nwokocha CR, Sikoki FD, Babatunde BB, Frazzoli C, Orisakwe OE. Phytowaste as nutraceuticals in boosting public health. CLINICAL PHYTOSCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s40816-021-00260-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe utilization of bioactive constituent of peels and seeds provide an effective, environment friendly and inexpensive therapy for different forms of human disease, and the production, improvement and documentation of novel nutraceuticals. This review systematically presents findings and further understanding of the reported benefits and therapeutic applications of peel and seed extracts on innovative cell culture and animal studies, as well as phased clinical human trial research. The extracts of seed and peels were reported to possess high quantities of bioactive substances with antioxidative, antidiabetic, hepatorenal protective, antithyroidal, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, cardiovascular protective, neuro-protective effects, anticancer and wound healing activities. Therapeutic activities of the bioactive substances of peel and seed extracts include elevation of Superoxide dismutase (SOD), GSH-Px, t-GPx, Catalase and GST activities, with the suppression of MDA levels, hydroperoxide generation and lipid peroxidized products, the extracts also regulate inflammatory mediators and cytokines as they are reported to suppress the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, which include; IL-1β, PGE2, TGF-β and TNF-α and induces apoptosis and cell differentiation. This review revealed the therapeutic importance and best utilization of peels and seed extracts of fruits and vegetables.
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Csikós E, Horváth A, Ács K, Papp N, Balázs VL, Dolenc MS, Kenda M, Kočevar Glavač N, Nagy M, Protti M, Mercolini L, Horváth G, Farkas Á. Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia by Natural Drugs. Molecules 2021; 26:7141. [PMID: 34885733 PMCID: PMC8659259 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26237141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common urinary diseases affecting men, generally after the age of 50. The prevalence of this multifactorial disease increases with age. With aging, the plasma level of testosterone decreases, as well as the testosterone/estrogen ratio, resulting in increased estrogen activity, which may facilitate the hyperplasia of the prostate cells. Another theory focuses on dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and the activity of the enzyme 5α-reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT. In older men, the activity of this enzyme increases, leading to a decreased testosterone/DHT ratio. DHT may promote prostate cell growth, resulting in hyperplasia. Some medicinal plants and their compounds act by modulating this enzyme, and have the above-mentioned targets. This review focuses on herbal drugs that are most widely used in the treatment of BPH, including pumpkin seed, willow herb, tomato, maritime pine bark, Pygeum africanum bark, rye pollen, saw palmetto fruit, and nettle root, highlighting the latest results of preclinical and clinical studies, as well as safety issues. In addition, the pharmaceutical care and other therapeutic options of BPH, including pharmacotherapy and surgical options, are discussed, summarizing and comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Csikós
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.C.); (K.Á.); (N.P.); (V.L.B.); (G.H.)
| | - Adrienn Horváth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Kamilla Ács
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.C.); (K.Á.); (N.P.); (V.L.B.); (G.H.)
| | - Nóra Papp
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.C.); (K.Á.); (N.P.); (V.L.B.); (G.H.)
| | - Viktória Lilla Balázs
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.C.); (K.Á.); (N.P.); (V.L.B.); (G.H.)
| | - Marija Sollner Dolenc
- University of Ljubljana, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.S.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Maša Kenda
- University of Ljubljana, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.S.D.); (M.K.)
| | - Nina Kočevar Glavač
- University of Ljubljana, Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Milan Nagy
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University in Bratislava, SK-832-32 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Michele Protti
- Research Group of Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis (PTA Lab), Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Laura Mercolini
- Research Group of Pharmaco-Toxicological Analysis (PTA Lab), Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.P.); (L.M.)
| | - Györgyi Horváth
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.C.); (K.Á.); (N.P.); (V.L.B.); (G.H.)
| | - Ágnes Farkas
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; (E.C.); (K.Á.); (N.P.); (V.L.B.); (G.H.)
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Characterization of a neutral polysaccharide from pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch) with potential immunomodulatory activity. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 188:729-739. [PMID: 34389393 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.08.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
A neutral polysaccharide designated as CMDP-1a (molecular mass 9.263 kDa) was isolated from Cucurbita moschata Duch through hot water extraction, ethanol precipitation, and column chromatography. On the basis of methylation, fourier-transform infrared, monosaccharide composition, and one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy analyses, the structure of CMDP-1a was determined to be a backbone composed of α-1,4 linked glucopyranosyl residues with α-Glcp residue linkage at backbone C-6. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses revealed that CMDP-1a had a spherical conformation in solution. In immunostimulation assays, CMDP-1a promoted the proliferation of RAW 264.7 macrophages and significantly enhanced their pinocytic and phagocytic capacity. Furthermore, CMDP-1a induced the M1 polarization of original macrophages and the conversion of macrophages from M2 to M1, thereby modulating the balance of M1/M2 macrophages. These results indicated that CMDP-1a might be a potential immunomodulator for food purposes.
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L. Cucurbita pepo Alleviates Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress via Modulation of Apoptosis, Neurogenesis, and Gliosis in Rat Hippocampus. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:6662649. [PMID: 34336111 PMCID: PMC8289620 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6662649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Pumpkin has received significant attention due to its nutritional compounds that have antioxidant, antifatigue, and anti-inflammatory effects. This study is aimed at assessing the antidepressant-like effect of L. Cucurbita pepo, sweet pumpkin, in an animal model of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and investigating its effect on the histological structure of hippocampus compared to fluoxetine. Forty male albino rats assigned into the negative control, positive control (CUMS), and Flu-treated and pumpkin-treated groups (n = 10) were utilized in this study. Exposing rats to CUMS continued for 28 days, and treatments used were applied during the last 14 days of exposure. Behavioral, biochemical, and histopathological changes were assessed after 28 days. In this study, pumpkin significantly reduced the immobility time (p = 0.02), corticosterone (p < 0.001), TNF-α, IL-6 (p < 0.001), and malondialdehyde (p = 0.003), whereas it significantly increased the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in the serum of rats exposed to CUMS. Pumpkin markedly relieved the degenerative and atrophic changes observed in the CA3 region and the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. It significantly reduced caspase-3 and increased glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunoexpression in the CA3 and DG. In conclusion, administration of pumpkin extract improved the behavioral, biochemical, and hippocampal pathological alternations induced in rats after exposure to CUMS in a comparable pattern to fluoxetine. This study highlighted the potential efficacy of pumpkin in alleviating depression disorder either alone or in conjugation with conventional antidepressant therapy.
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Natural Yogurt Stabilized with Hydrocolloids from Butternut Squash (Cucurbita moschata) Seeds: Effect on Physicochemical, Rheological Properties and Sensory Perception. FLUIDS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/fluids6070251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Stabilizers are ingredients employed to improve the technological properties of products. The food industry and consumers have recently become interested in the development of natural ingredients. In this work, the effects of hydrocolloids from butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata) seeds (HBSS) as stabilizers on the physicochemical, rheological, and sensory properties of natural yogurt were examined. HBSS improved the yogurt’s physical stability and physicochemical properties, decreasing syneresis and modifying the samples’ rheological properties, improving the assessment of sensory characteristics. The samples presented shear thinning behavior characterized by a decrease in viscosity with the increase of the shear rate; nevertheless, the samples showed a two-step yield stress. HBSS is an alternative as a natural stabilizer for the development of microstructured products.
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A novel Angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptide IAF (Ile-Ala-Phe) from pumpkin seed proteins: in silico screening, inhibitory activity, and molecular mechanisms. Eur Food Res Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00217-021-03783-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Martínez C, Valenzuela JL, Jamilena M. Genetic and Pre- and Postharvest Factors Influencing the Content of Antioxidants in Cucurbit Crops. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10060894. [PMID: 34199481 PMCID: PMC8228042 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10060894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cucurbitaceae is one of the most economically important plant families, and includes some worldwide cultivated species like cucumber, melons, and squashes, and some regionally cultivated and feral species that contribute to the human diet. For centuries, cucurbits have been appreciated because of their nutritional value and, in traditional medicine, because of their ability to alleviate certain ailments. Several studies have demonstrated the remarkable contents of valuable compounds in cucurbits, including antioxidants such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids, but also tannins and terpenoids, which are abundant. This antioxidant power is beneficial for human health, but also in facing plant diseases and abiotic stresses. This review brings together data on the antioxidant properties of cucurbit species, addressing the genetic and pre- and postharvest factors that regulate the antioxidant content in different plant organs. Environmental conditions, management, storage, and pre- and postharvest treatments influencing the biosynthesis and activity of antioxidants, together with the biodiversity of this family, are determinant in improving the antioxidant potential of this group of species. Plant breeding, as well as the development of innovative biotechnological approaches, is also leading to new possibilities for exploiting cucurbits as functional products.
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Ahmad G, Khan AA, Mohamed HI. Impact of the low and high concentrations of fly ash amended soil on growth, physiological response, and yield of pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch. Ex Poiret L.). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:17068-17083. [PMID: 33394391 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-12029-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Fly ash, a result of coal burning in thermal power plants, is sustainably used in agriculture and has been regarded as a problematic solid waste worldwide. The presence of some desired nutrients (macro and micro) and its porosity makes it a marvelous soil amendment for plant growth and development. The present study was done to evaluate the effect of different fly ash levels on pumpkin crop (Cucurbita moschata). Pot experiment in randomized block design was conducted with different fly ash supplement treatments to analyze the impact of fly ash on growth, chlorophyll, carotenoid, biochemical parameters, and pumpkin crop yield. The results show variation in soil's physical and chemical properties after the application of fly ash (30 and 50%). Also, the lower levels (10-30%) of fly ash amended soil significantly (P ≤ 0.05) enhanced the growth (plant height, plant fresh and dry biomass, no. of leaves, and average area of the leaf), chlorophyll content, and biochemical contents (protein, carbohydrate, mineral, and leaf water content) in pumpkin crop. The proline content was also observed to enhance by the increasing levels of fly ash to soil. The yield parameters in terms of a number of flowers and fruits, fruits' length and diameter, and fresh and dry weight of fruits were also significantly increased in amended soil with 10-30% fly ash. On the other hand, the higher doses, i.e., 40% and 50% of fly ash showed a negative effect and reduced the growth, chlorophyll, carotenoid, biochemical content, proline, and yield in pumpkin crop. We concluded that the lower level of fly ash (up to 30%) could be used as fertilizer in agricultural fields for the improvement of vegetable as well as other food crops in a sustainable manner but the higher level of fly ash (40 and 50%) is toxic to the plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gufran Ahmad
- Environmental Botany Lab, Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Abrar A Khan
- Environmental Botany Lab, Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
| | - Heba I Mohamed
- Biological and Geological Sciences Department, Faculty of Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
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Bahadori MH, Azari Z, Zaminy A, Dabirian S, Mehrdad SM, Kondori BJ. Anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects of hull-less pumpkin extract on human papillary thyroid carcinoma cell line. Anat Cell Biol 2021; 54:104-111. [PMID: 33504684 PMCID: PMC8017459 DOI: 10.5115/acb.20.228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is one of the most common cancers of the endocrine system. Previous studies have shown that the extract of hull-less pumpkin seed (HLPS) has a significant anti-cancer effect. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of this plant extract on the proliferation of PTC cells. In this study, an extract of this plant was prepared by soxhlet extraction method and analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry. The cytotoxicity of PTX and plant extract was investigated using the methylthiazol tetrazolium (MTT) method. For careful investigation of morphological alteration, we used hematoxylin and eosin and Giemsa stinging. Based on MTT assay test, the IC50 value of paclitaxel (PTX) was significantly less than the hydro-alcoholic extract of HLPS at all of the incubation time. Our results of histological staining showed that HLPS and PTX induced significant morphological alteration in the PTC cultured cell that consistent with cell death. Comparing the groups treated by PTX or HLPS with control group showed significant differences. It seems that HLPS extract has an apparent effect on treatment of PTC, at least in laboratory condition, albeit for realistic decision about the effect of HLPS on PTC, more molecular investigations are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hadi Bahadori
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Zoleikha Azari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Arash Zaminy
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Sara Dabirian
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | | | - Bahman Jalali Kondori
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases (BRCGL), Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Köprüalan Ö, Altay Ö, Bodruk A, Kaymak-Ertekin F. Effect of hybrid drying method on physical, textural and antioxidant properties of pumpkin chips. JOURNAL OF FOOD MEASUREMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11694-021-00866-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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41
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Chen L, Li D, Zhu C, Ma X, Rong Y. Fatty Acids and Flavor Components in the Oil Extracted from Golden Melon Seeds. EUR J LIPID SCI TECH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ejlt.202000233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Chen
- School of Perfume and Aroma Technology Shanghai Institute of Technology Shanghai 201418 China
| | - Dongna Li
- School of Perfume and Aroma Technology Shanghai Institute of Technology Shanghai 201418 China
| | - Chuchu Zhu
- School of Perfume and Aroma Technology Shanghai Institute of Technology Shanghai 201418 China
| | - Xia Ma
- School of Perfume and Aroma Technology Shanghai Institute of Technology Shanghai 201418 China
| | - Yuzhi Rong
- School of Perfume and Aroma Technology Shanghai Institute of Technology Shanghai 201418 China
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Akomolafe SF, Olasehinde TA, Aluko BT. Diets supplemented with raw and roasted pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L) seeds improved some biochemical parameters associated with erectile function in rats. J Food Biochem 2021; 45:e13629. [PMID: 33502019 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.13629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of diet supplemented with raw and roasted pumpkin seeds on some key biochemical parameters relevant to erectile function in corpus cavernosal tissues of male rats. Rats were fed with basal diets (NC), diet supplemented with raw (5% and 10%) and roasted (5% and 10%) pumpkin seeds for the evaluation of adenosine deaminase (ADA), phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5), arginase, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities, including nitric oxide level and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Diet supplemented with roasted pumpkin seeds showed better PDE-5, ADA, arginase activities, as well as NO and MDA levels. No significant difference was observed in AChE activities of rats treated with raw and roasted pumpkin seeds. The modulatory effects of raw and roasted pumpkin seeds on enzymes associated with erectile dysfunction suggest the biochemical rationale for its therapeutic role in enhancing erectile function. However, roasted pumpkin seeds (10%, w/w of diet) possess more beneficial effects than the raw seeds. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Pumpkin is a nutritious vegetable used in folklore for the treatment of bladder, prostate, and kidney diseases. The seeds are known to contain phenolic compounds which exert different health benefits. Processing of foods has been shown to either improve the quality or reduce the bioactive components which affect its functionality. In this study, roasting improved the biochemical parameters associated with erectile function in male rats. Roasted pumpkin seeds also reduced the oxidative stress parameters in rats' penile tissues when compared to raw pumpkin seeds. This study revealed that thermal processing associated with roasting could improve the antioxidant activity of pumpkin seeds and crucial enzymes related to erectile function. Hence, consumption of roasted pumpkin seeds could be more beneficial compared to raw pumpkin seeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seun F Akomolafe
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Tosin A Olasehinde
- Nutrition and Toxicology Division, Food Technology Department, Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi, Lagos, Nigeria.,Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Bukola T Aluko
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria
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43
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Paximada P, Howarth M, Dubey BN. Double emulsions fortified with plant and milk proteins as fat replacers in cheese. J FOOD ENG 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2020.110229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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44
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Physicochemical, nutritional and functional properties of Cucurbita moschata. Food Sci Biotechnol 2020; 30:171-183. [PMID: 33732508 DOI: 10.1007/s10068-020-00835-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cucurbita moschata is widely planted in most parts of the world, and is rich in carotenoids, vitamins, dietary fiber, minerals, and phenolic compounds. It also has important medicinal value. Some related research has proven that Cucurbita moschata has the potential ability to induce anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, antibacterial, and anticancer effects. At the same time, it has attracted more attention in the medical field. These nutrients and bioactive compounds in Cucurbita moschata have important effects on human health. In order to make better use of this crop, it still needs further study. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to summarize the physicochemical properties and nutritional components of Cucurbita moschata, and to provide a reference for further research on the benefits of on human health.
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45
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Ammar AI, Afifi AF, Essa A, Galal-Khallaf A, Mokhtar MM, Shehab-Eldeen S, Rady AA. Cucurbita pepo Seed Oil Induces Microsatellite Instability and Tegumental Damage to Schistosoma mansoni Immature and Adult Worms In vitro. Infect Drug Resist 2020; 13:3469-3484. [PMID: 33116667 PMCID: PMC7549022 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s265699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is a tropical parasitic disease treated exclusively with praziquantel (PZQ). However, PZQ has low efficacy against schistosomula and juveniles. In addition, the emergence of PZQ resistance has prompted the search for new drugs. Methods This study investigated the effects of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo)-seed oil (PSO) on Schistosoma mansoni adults, juveniles, and newly formed schistosomula in vitro by exposing the parasites to increasing concentrations of PSO (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 µl/mL) with variable incubation periods (24, 48, and 72 hours). Dose-response effects of PSO on mortality rate, worm activity, and tegumental changes were studied. Also, effect on DNA were assessed with microsatellite analysis. Results All tested stages of S. mansoni were susceptible to PSO, which was more effective than PZQ on juvenile worms and schistosomula. Juveniles and schistosomula S. mansoni were more sensitive to the antischistosomal activity of PSO than adult worms. PSO showed evident changes in the integuments of adults, juveniles, and schistosomula. These changes were more evident with increased concentrations. At the genomic level, PSO induced clear qualitative and quantitative changes in the microsatellite loci R95529 and SMD57 of S. mansoni adults and schistosomula. This microsatellite instability is being reported through the current study for S. mansoni in response to PSO for the first time. Conclusion This study suggested that PSO possesses effective antischistosomal activity against various stages of S. mansoni. Further investigations are needed to figure out the mechanism of action of PSO on this parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amany Ibrahim Ammar
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Amira Fathy Afifi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Abdallah Essa
- Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt.,Internal Medicine Department, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asmaa Galal-Khallaf
- Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El- Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Mostafa Mohamed Mokhtar
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Egypt
| | - Somaia Shehab-Eldeen
- Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt.,Internal Medicine Department, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amany Ahmed Rady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
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Vinayashree S, Vasu P. Biochemical, nutritional and functional properties of protein isolate and fractions from pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata var. Kashi Harit) seeds. Food Chem 2020; 340:128177. [PMID: 33002826 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.128177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Pumpkin seeds are rich source of nutritionally well-balanced proteins. The biochemical, nutritional, and functional properties of the protein isolate (PPI) and protein fractions from pumpkin seed were evaluated. Extraction method for PPI was optimized by varying NaCl (0, 0.5, 1 M) and flour-to-solution ratio (1:5, 1:10, 1:25), at pH 9.0. Proteins were extracted by Osborne procedure and the alkali fraction (AF, 45.82%) was found to be the predominant fraction. SDS-PAGE profile of PPI revealed major bands ranging from 50 to 7 kDa. AF contained all the essential amino acids (EAA) except lysine and threonine, as required by pre-school children (FAO/WHO). PPI and AF showed better protein efficiency ratio and EAA/TAA (total) %, indicating the presence of good quality proteins. Functional properties were found to be comparable with soybean protein isolate. Circular dichroism studies showed that water fraction comprised of α-helix and random coils, while salt and alkali fractions contained β-strand and coils.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Vinayashree
- Department of Food Safety and Analytical Quality Control Laboratory, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru 570020, Karnataka, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Prasanna Vasu
- Department of Food Safety and Analytical Quality Control Laboratory, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru 570020, Karnataka, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
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Abbas HMK, Huang HX, Yang YF, Xie YH, Zou JF, Xue SD, Song DG, Wu TQ, Li JX, Zhong YJ. Characterization of Starch in Cucurbita moschata Germplasms throughout Fruit Development. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2020; 68:9690-9696. [PMID: 32794755 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.0c03181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata; Cucurbitaceae) are the rich source of nutrients and valued for their biologically active substances to be used for the treatment of several diseases. The contents, composition, and conformation of starch are the significant quality traits of C. moschata. Two germplasms were targeted for analysis regarding the taste difference. Results indicated that the total starch contents and amylose/amylopectin ratio were high in CMO-X as compared to CMO-E during each fruit development stage. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy observations revealed that smooth surface starch granules fused together to enhance the starch accumulation. For a comparison of fruit development in CMO-E and CMO-X, the putative pathway for starch metabolism was developed and homologs were identified for each key gene involved in the pathway. GBSS and SBE were correlated with the difference in the amylose/amylopectin ratio of CMO-E and CMO-X. Conclusively, the developmental regulation of genes associated with starch accumulation can be considered as an important factor for the determination of fruit quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafiz Muhammad Khalid Abbas
- Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for New Technology Research of Vegetables, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - He-Xun Huang
- Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Fei Yang
- Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for New Technology Research of Vegetables, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Yuan-Heng Xie
- Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for New Technology Research of Vegetables, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Feng Zou
- Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for New Technology Research of Vegetables, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Shu-Dan Xue
- Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for New Technology Research of Vegetables, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Dong-Guang Song
- Department of Horticulture, College of Food Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, P. R. China
| | - Ting-Quan Wu
- Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for New Technology Research of Vegetables, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Jun-Xing Li
- Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for New Technology Research of Vegetables, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Juan Zhong
- Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for New Technology Research of Vegetables, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
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Bai Y, Zhang M, Chandra Atluri S, Chen J, Gilbert RG. Relations between digestibility and structures of pumpkin starches and pectins. Food Hydrocoll 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodhyd.2020.105894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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49
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MAJID AK, AHMED Z, KHAN R. Effect of pumpkin seed oil on cholesterol fractions and systolic/diastolic blood pressure. FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/fst.03720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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50
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Huwait EA. Efficacy of Sweet Pumpkin in Relieving Contact Dermatitis in Chronically Stressed Rats. J Microsc Ultrastruct 2020; 8:55-61. [PMID: 32766119 PMCID: PMC7365511 DOI: 10.4103/jmau.jmau_37_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Contact dermatitis (CD) is considered among the common inflammatory skin diseases worldwide. Cucurbita moschata Duchesne has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant activity beside many other beneficial effects. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effect of pumpkin fruit extract in treating CD in mice exposed to chronic stress and to explore the mechanism through which pumpkin can relief these changes. Materials and Methods: Thirty male albino rats were divided into three groups (n = 10); the control and two experimental groups that were exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress for 4 weeks then painting with 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) for 3 consecutive days/week for 2 weeks to induce CD. Biochemical assessment of corticosterone level and antioxidants activity was performed. Skin of affected areas was excised, processed for histopathological examination. Results: DNFB-induced CD presented with dryness, hardness, and scaling. There was a significant reduction (P < 0.001) in the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase activity in the skin of rats had CD. Histopathologically, the shin showed hyperplastic-thickened epidermis, focal elongation of the rete ridges, inflammatory cells infiltration in the superficial dermis, and increased collagen fibers. Local administration of pumpkin extract significantly increased the antioxidants activity in the skin and alleviated the CD-associated changes. Conclusions: This study showed that the pumpkin fruit extract could have a potential in treating CD in stressed conditions mainly via its enhancement of skin antioxidant activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etedal Abbas Huwait
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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