Physicochemical characterization, antioxidant activity of polysaccharides from Mesona chinensis Benth and their protective effect on injured NCTC-1469 cells induced by H2O2

Probiotic and anti-inflammatory properties of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MKTJ24 isolated from an artisanal fermented fish of North-east India

The study aimed to isolate and characterize lactic acid bacteria from various traditional fermented fish products from North East India, including Xindol, Hentak, and Ngari, which hold significant dietary importance for the indigenous tribes. Additionally, the study sought to examine their untargeted metabolomic profiles. A total of 43 strains of Bacillus, Priestia, Staphylococcus, Pediococcus, and Lactiplantibacillus were isolated, characterized by 16 S rRNA gene and tested for probiotic properties. Five strains passed pH and bile salt tests with strain dependent antimicrobial activity, which exhibited moderate autoaggregation and hydrophobicity properties. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MKTJ24 exhibited the highest hydrophobicity (42 %), which was further confirmed by adhesion assay in HT-29 cell lines (100 %). Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MKTJ24 treatment in LPS-stimulated HT-29 cells up-regulated expression of mucin genes compared to LPS-treated cells. Treatment of RAW 264.7 cells with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MKTJ24 decreased LPS-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) productions. Further, genome analysis of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MKTJ24 revealed the presence of several probiotic markers and immunomodulatory genes. The genome was found to harbor plantaricin operon involved in bacteriocin production. A pangenome analysis using all the publicly available L. plantarum genomes specifically isolated from fermented fish products identified 120 unique genes in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MKTJ24. Metabolomic analysis indicated dominance of ascorbic acids, pentafluropropionate, cyclopropaneacetic acid, florobenzylamine, and furanone in Xindol. This study suggests that Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MKTJ24 has potential probiotic and immunomodulatory properties that could be used in processing traditional fermented fish products on an industrial scale to improve their quality and enhance functional properties.

Sustainable biosynthesis of lycopene by using evolutionary adaptive recombinant Escherichia coli from orange peel waste

This study aimed to evaluate the hydrolysates from orange peel waste (OPW) as the low-cost carbon source for lycopene production. Initially, the dilute acid pretreatment combined with enzymatic hydrolysis of OPW resulted in a total sugar concentration of 62.18 g/L. Meanwhile, a four-month adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) experiment using a d-galacturonic acid minimal medium resulted in an improvement in the growth rate of our previously engineered Escherichia coli strain for lycopene production. After evolutionary adaptation, response surface methodology (RSM) was adapted to optimize the medium composition in fermentation. The results obtained from RSM analysis revealed that the 5.53 % carbon source of orange peel hydrolysate (OPH), 6.57 g/L nitrogen source, and 30 °C temperature boosted lycopene production in the final strain. Subsequently, the optimized treatment for lycopene fermentation was then conducted in a 5 L batch fermenter under the surveillance of a kinetic model that uses the Logistic equation for strain growth (μm = 0.441 h-1), and Luedeking-Piret equations for lycopene production (Pm = 1043 mgL-1) with growth rate constant (α = 0.1491). At last, lycopene biosynthesized from OPH was extracted and analyzed for qualitative validation. Likewise, its data on phytic acid (between 1.01 % and 0.86 %) and DPPH radical scavenging (between 38.06 % and 29.08 %) highlighted the better antioxidant capacity of lycopene. In conclusion, the OPH can be used as a fermentation feedstock which opens new possibilities of exploiting fruit crop residues for food and pharmaceutical applications.

Ion Chromatography and Related Techniques in Carbohydrate Analysis: A Review

Ion chromatography and related techniques have been the most popular separation methods used in the determination of organic and inorganic anions and cations, predominantly in water and wastewater samples. Making progress in their development and introducing new stationary phases, methods of detection and preparation of samples for analyses have given rise to the broadening of their analytical range. Nowadays, they are also used for substances that are not ionic by nature but can convert to such forms under certain conditions. These encompass, among others, carbohydrates, whose role and significance in humans' lives and environment is invaluable. Their presence in the air is mostly due to the industrial burning of biomass for energy production purposes. In addition, the content of sugars in plants, fruits and vegetables, constituting the base of human diets, affects our health condition. Given that, there is not only a need for their determination by means of routine methods but also for searching for novel analytical solutions. Based on literature data from the past decade, this paper presents the possibilities and examples of applications regarding ion chromatography and related techniques for the determination of carbohydrates in environmental samples, biomass and plants constituting food or raw materials for food production. Attention has been paid to the virtues and limitations of the discussed separation methods in this respect. Moreover, perspectives on their development have been defined.

Preparation technologies, structural features, and biological activities of polysaccharides from Mesona chinensis Benth.: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mesona chinensis Benth. (or Platostoma palustre (Blume) A. J. Paton) is an important medicinal and edible plant also known as the Hsian-tsao in China and Southeast Asian countries. It is cold in nature and sweet in taste, with the effects of clearing heat, relieving heatstroke and diuretic, and traditionally used to treat heatstroke, erysipelas, hypertension, joint pain and other diseases in folk medicine. It is also a popular supplement with the function of detoxifying and heat-clearing use in Asia. It is used to be processed into the popular tea, Bean jelly, and so on. Published studies have demonstrated that polysaccharides from M. chinensis (MCPs) are one of the principal bioactive ingredients with a variety of health-promoting effects in the prevention and treatment of diseases, including antioxidant, immunomodulation, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-tumor, hypoglycemic, regulation of gut microbiota, and other pharmacological properties.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to compile the extraction and purification methods, structural characteristics, pharmacological activities including the mechanism of action of MCPs, and to further understand the applications of M. chinensis in order to lay the foundation for the development of MCPs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

By inputting the search term "Mesona chinensis polysaccharides", relevant research information was obtained from databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI).

RESULTS

More than 40 polysaccharides have been extracted from M. chinensis, different extraction and purification methods have been described, as well as the structural features and pharmacological activities of MCPs have been systematically reviewed. Polysaccharides, as important components of M. chinensis, were mainly extracted by methods such as hot water dipping method, hot alkali extraction method, enzyme-assisted extraction method and ultrasonic-assisted extraction method, subsequently obtained by decolorization, deproteinization, removal of other small molecules and separation on various chromatographic columns. The chemical composition and structure of MCPs show diversity and have a variety of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, immunomodulation, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-tumor, hypoglycemic, regulation of gut microbiota, and so on.

CONCLUSIONS

This article systematically reviews the research progress of MCPs in terms of extraction and purification, structural characteristics, rheological gel properties, pharmacological properties, and safety assessment. The potentials and roles of M. chinensis in the field of medicine, functional food, and materials are further highlighted to provide references and bases for the high-value processing and utilization of MCPs.

Functionality and Health-Promoting Properties of Polysaccharide and Plant-Derived Substances from Mesona chinensis

Mesona chinensis, in Thai called Chao Kuay and in Chinese Hsian-tsao, belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This herbal plant grows widely in Southern China, Taiwan (China), Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. The Mesona plant is used to make functional products such as drinks and soft textured sweet treats, and also traditional medicine, to treat heat stroke, high blood pressure, heart attack, high blood sugar, hepatic diseases, colon diseases, inflammatory conditions, and to alleviate myalgia. The proximate composition of M. chinensis is a mixture of protein, fat, fiber, ash, and minerals. The main biological compounds in M. chinensis extracts are polysaccharides, terpenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenols, with wide-ranging pharmacological properties including antioxidant, antidiabetic, antilipidemic, carcinoma-inhibitory, renal-protective, antihypertensive, DNA damage-protective, and anti-inflammatory effects. This review investigated the proximate composition, polysaccharide type, and pharmacological properties of M. chinensis extracts. Phytochemical properties enhance the actions of the gut microbiota and improve health benefits. This review assessed the functional and medicinal activities of M. chinensis extracts. Future studies should further elucidate the in vitro/in vivo mechanisms of this plant extract and its impact on gut health.

Polysaccharides from Brassica rapa root: Extraction, purification, structural features, and biological activities. A review

Brassica rapa (B. rapa) roots are attracting increased attention from nutritionists and health-conscious customers because of their remarkable performance in supplying necessary nutrients. Polysaccharides are major biologically active substances in B. rapa roots, which come in a variety of monosaccharides with different molar ratios and glycosidic bond types. Depending on the source, extraction, separation, and purification methods of B. rapa roots polysaccharides (BRP); different structural features, and pharmacological activities are elucidated. Polysaccharides from B. rapa roots possess a range of nutritional, biological, and health-enhancing characteristics, including anti-hypoxic, antifatigue, immunomodulatory, hypoglycemic, anti-tumor, and antioxidant activities. This paper reviewed extraction and purification methods, structural features, and biological activities as well as correlations between the structural and functional characteristics of polysaccharides from the B. rapa roots. Ultimately, this work will serve as useful reference for understanding the connections between polysaccharide structure and biological activity and developing novel BRP-based functional foods.

Comparison of structures and properties of gels formed by corn starch with fresh or dried Mesona chinensis polysaccharide

Starch is a major dietary carbohydrate, but its digestion properties need to be improved. Mesona chinensis polysaccharides (MCPs) had a unique function in improving the flocculation performance of starch. This study investigated the effects of adding Mesona chinensis polysaccharide extracted from wet fresh and dry plants with one-year storage, namely WMCP and DMCP, on the physicochemical properties and digestion kinetics of corn starch(CS). The composition analysis showed both WMCP and DMCP were an acidic heteropolysaccharide rich in galacturonic acid and galactose, whereas showed different average main fraction molecular weights (Mw) of 47.36 kDa and 42.98 kDa, respectively. In addition, WMCP showed higher yield, purity and better physicochemical properties to CS than DWCP. Thermal analysis showed WMCP decreased more gelatinization temperatures and enthalpy of CS, and increased more freeze-thaw stability, water holding capacity, and textural parameters of CS gels than DMCP. Structural analysis revealed WMCP induced more changes in crystallinity, short-range order, and microstructure of CS, which inhibited retrogradation than DMCP. In vitro digestion assays demonstrated WMCP addition significantly increased higher resistant starch content by altering starch-starch and starch-MCP interactions than DWCP. Overall, MCPs addition beneficially modulated CS properties and digestion kinetics, providing a novel way to improve starch functionalities. Moreover, WMCP had more advantages to be chosen to form hydrocolloid with CS than DMCP.

Physicochemical properties and in vitro hypoglycemic activities of hsian-tsao polysaccharide fractions by gradient ethanol precipitation method

Hsian-tsao polysaccharides fractions (HPs), including HP20, HP40, HP60, and HP80, were fractioned by gradient precipitation of 20 %, 40 %, 60 %, and 80 % (v/v) ethanol, respectively. Their physicochemical properties and in vitro hypoglycemic activities (inhibitory activities on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, glucose adsorption capacity, and glucose diffusion retardation) were determined. The results showed that, with ethanol upward, the average particle size, molecular weight, and apparent viscosity of HPs were decreased while carbohydrate and uronic acid contents, absolute zeta potential, and thermal stability were increased. Each of the HPs contained Rha, Ara, Gal, Xyl, Man, and GalA with different molar ratios, indicative of anionic heteropolysaccharides with uronic acid. HPs, with diverse structures and surface morphologies as proved by FTIR and SEM, whose solutions were pseudoplastic fluids, exhibited elastic behavior of weak gel networks at concentrations of >1 %. Moreover, HPs showed inhibitory activities on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, of which HP80 was the strongest. For α-amylase, HP20 and HP60 behaved as mixed inhibitors, while HP40 and HP80 were non-competitive. For α-glucosidase, HPs acted as mixed inhibitors. Additionally, HPs possessed glucose adsorption capacity and glucose diffusion retardation, with the best for HP20. These results suggested that HPs possessed hypoglycemic activities, which could be developed as functional food or hypoglycemic drugs.

Polysaccharide from Flammulina velutipes residues protects mice from Pb poisoning by activating Akt/GSK3β/Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathway and modulating gut microbiota

Lead (Pb) can cause damages to the brain, liver, kidney, endocrine and other systems. Flammulina velutipes residues polysaccharide (FVRP) has been reported to exhibit anti-heavy metal toxicity on yeast, but its regulating mechanism is unclear. Therefore, the protective effect and the underlying mechanism of FVRP on Pb-intoxicated mice were investigated. The results showed that FVRP could reduce liver and kidney function indexes, serum inflammatory factor levels, and increase antioxidant enzyme activity of Pb-poisoned mice. FVRP also exhibited a protective effect on histopathological damages in organs of Pb-intoxicated mice. Furthermore, FVRP attenuated Pb-induced kidney injury by inhibiting apoptosis via activating the Akt/GSK3β/Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathway. In addition, based on 16 s rRNA and ITS-2 sequencing data, FVRP regulated the imbalance of gut microbiota to alleviate the damage of Pb-poisoned mice by increasing the abundance of beneficial microbiota (Lachnospiraceae, Lactobacillaceae, Saccharomyces and Mycosphaerella) and decreasing the abundance of harmful microbiota (Muribaculaceae and Pleosporaceae). In conclusion, FVRP inhibited kidney injury in Pb-poisoned mice by inhibiting apoptosis via activating Akt/GSK3β/Nrf-2/HO-1 signaling pathway, and regulating gut fungi and gut bacteria. This study not only revealed the role of gut fungi in Pb-toxicity, but also laid a theoretical foundation for FVRP as a natural drug against Pb-toxicity.

Investigation of radiation protective features of azadispiro derivatives and their genotoxic potential with Ames/Salmonella test system

PURPOSE

Five different types of synthesized azadispiro derivatives have been analyzed for radiation absorption capacity and determined their potential to be exploited as substances for a drug to be developed against radiation has been investigated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fast neutron attenuation parameters like the effective mean free path, half-value layer (HVL), removal cross-sections, and neutron transmission number were found with the Monte Carlo simulation Geometry And Tracking (GEANT4) code. Gamma radiation absorption parameters, such as effective atom number (Z_eff), mean free path (MFP), mass attenuation coefficient (MAC), and half-value layer (HVL) were theoretically determined with WinXCom software. Besides, the exposure build-up factor (EBF) was calculated by using GP fitting parameters. Neutron absorption dose rate was experimentally calculated with ²⁴¹Am-Be fast neutron source which has 4.5 MeV of energy, 74 GBq activity, and portative BF₃ neutron detector. Ames/Salmonella test systems were used for the genotoxic potentials of the azadispiro derivatives.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Experimental and theoretical results were checked with paraffin and High-Density Polyethylene. The results showed that Azadispiro derivatives have neutron radiation absorption capability close to paraffin and High-Density Polyethylene. The gamma radiation absorption properties for azadispiro derivatives have been investigated, and it has been observed that these materials can absorb gamma radiation. Ames/Salmonella assay was used to examine whether the derivatives had a genotoxic effect probability or not. The results showed that these derivatives were genotoxic and safe at test doses (up to 5 mM). Consequently, it has been understood that these azadispiro derivatives can be used as active and genotoxic safety ingredients in the production of a protective drug against both neutrons and gamma rays.

Preparation and Hepatoprotective Activities of Peptides Derived from Mussels (Mytilus edulis) and Clams (Ruditapes philippinarum)

Low molecular weight (<5 kDa) peptides from mussels (Mytilus edulis) (MPs) and the peptides from clams (Ruditapes philippinarum) (CPs) were prepared through enzymatic hydrolysis by proteases (dispase, pepsin, trypsin, alcalase and papain). Both the MPs and the CPs showed excellent in vitro scavenging ability of free radicals including OH, DPPH and ABTS in the concentration range of 0.625−10.000 mg/mL. By contrast, the MPs hydrolyzed by alcalase (MPs-A) and the CPs hydrolyzed by dispase (CPs-D) had the highest antioxidant activities. Furthermore, MPs-A and CPs-D exhibited protective capabilities against oxidative damage induced by H2O2 in HepG2 cells in the concentration range of 25−800 μg/mL. Meanwhile, compared with the corresponding indicators of the negative control (alcohol-fed) mice, lower contents of hepatic MDA and serums ALT and AST, as well as higher activities of hepatic SOD and GSH-PX were observed in experiment mice treated with MPs-A and CPs-D. The present results clearly indicated that Mytilus edulis and Ruditapes philippinarum are good sources of hepatoprotective peptides.

The Potential of Lamiaceae Herbs for Mitigation of Overweight, Obesity, and Fatty Liver: Studies and Perspectives

Numerous plants, plant extracts, and plant-derived compounds are being explored for their beneficial effects against overweight and liver diseases. Obesity is associated with the increased prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), becoming the most common liver disease in Western countries. Obesity and NAFLD are closely associated with many other metabolic alternations such as insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases. Many herbs of the Lamiaceae family are widely employed as food and spices in the Mediterranean area, but also in folk medicine, and their use for the management of metabolic disorders is well documented. Hereby, we summarized the scientific results of the medicinal and nutraceutical potential of plants from the Lamiaceae family for prevention and mitigation of overweight and fatty liver. The evidence indicates that Lamiaceae plants may be a cost-effective source of nutraceuticals and/or phytochemicals to be used in the management of metabolic-related conditions such as obesity and NAFLD. PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and SciFinder were accessed to collect data on traditional medicinal plants, compounds derived from plants, their reported anti-obesity mechanisms, and therapeutic targets.

Evaluation of Proanthocyanidins from Kiwi Leaves (Actinidia chinensis) against Caco-2 Cells Oxidative Stress through Nrf2-ARE Signaling Pathway

Proanthocyanidins (PAs) are considered to be effective natural byproduct and bioactive antioxidants. However, few studies have focused on their mode of action pathways. In this study, reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxidative stress indices, real-time PCR, Western blotting, confocal microscopy, and molecular docking were used to investigate the protective effect of purified kiwi leaves PAs (PKLPs) on Caco-2 cells’ oxidative stress mechanisms. The results confirmed that pre-treatment with PKLPs significantly reduced H2O2-induced oxidative damage, accompanied by declining ROS levels and malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation in the Caco-2 cells. The PKLPs upregulated the expression of antioxidative enzymes (GSH-px, CAT, T-SOD) and the relative mRNA (Nrf, HO-1, SOD-1, CAT) of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) signaling pathway. The protein-expressing level of the Nrf2 and its relative protein (NQO-1, HO-1, SOD-1) were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the PKLPs pre-treatment group compared to the model group. In conclusion, the novelty of this study is that it explains how PKLPs’ efficacy on the Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway, in protecting vital cells from oxidative stress, could be used for cleaner production.

Mesona chinensis Benth Polysaccharides Alleviate DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis via Inhibiting of TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB Signaling Pathways and Modulating Intestinal Microbiota

SCOPE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a severe disease of the intestinal tract. To investigate the role of TLR4/Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/Nuclear factor kappa-B(NF-κB) pathways and intestinal flora in UC, and the protective mechanisms of Mesona chinensis Benth polysaccharides (MBP), potential therapeutic agents due to their diabetes-relieving, cancer-suppressing, and immunomodulatory properties.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse colitis model is used for experiments; the histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting's results suggest that MBP can alleviate the colitis symptoms, inhibits the overproduction of TNF-α, IL-1β, promote IL-10, reduces myeloperoxidase activity, and alleviates the inflammatory response probably by inhibiting the activation of TLR4/MAPK/NF-κB pathways. Furthermore, MBP improvs the ratio of Bcl-2/BAX, maintains the intestinal integrity by promoting the levels of zonulin occludin-1 (ZO-1), occluding and mucin mucin-2 (MUC-2), reduces the levels of endotoxin (ET), lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) in serum, and oxidative stress in liver. Moreover, using 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing analysis, MBP regulates gut microbiota by decreasing the abundances of Helicobacter and Prevotella and increasing the abundances of Lactobacillus and Coprococcus, reverses microbiota dysbiosis caused by DSS.

CONCLUSION

These findings confirm the anti-inflammatory effects of MBP, restoration of the intestinal barrier and intestinal flora, and have therapeutic potential to attenuate the development of UC.

Physicochemical property and antioxidant activity of polysaccharide from the seed cakes of Camellia oleifera Abel

Seed cake refers to the food by‐product of Camellia oleifera Abel, and its insufficient utilization can cause serious environment pollution and resource waste. This study aimed to investigate antioxidant activities of the polysaccharide from the seed cakes of Camellia oleifera Abel (COCP) in vitro and in vivo. The physicochemical property of COCP was also determined. COCP was characterized to be an acidic glycoprotein and mainly consisted of rhamnose (Rha), arabinose (Ara), galactose (Gal), glucose (Glc), xylose (Xyl), mannose (Man), and galacturonic acid (Gal‐UA). COCP exhibited the polysaccharide's characteristic absorption in the Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy and showed as sheet‐like structures with a smooth surface under the scanning electron microscope (SEM). COCP exerted good scavenging activities on ABTS, DPPH, and OH radicals, with IC₅₀ values of 2.94, 2.24, and 5.09 mg/ml, respectively. COCP treatment improved learning and memory abilities of D‐galactose‐induced aging mice. Significant decreases were found in the levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine (CRE), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in serum, as aging mice were supplemented with COCP. Aging mice showed obviously higher malondialdehyde (MDA) contents and lower superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activities in serum, brain, liver, kidney, and heart. The phenomena were noticeably reversed when mice were treated with COCP. Results indicated that COCP exerted excellent antioxidant activities in vitro and in vivo, which support its potential application as a natural antioxidant in food and medicine industries.

Mesona chinensis polysaccharide accelerates the short-term retrogradation of debranched waxy corn starch

The effect of non-starch polysaccharides on the structural and functional properties of native starch have been extensively studied. However, the effect of non-starch polysaccharides on the structural characteristics of debranched starch, a kind of enzymatic modified starch, remains unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of Mesona chinensis polysaccharide (MP) on starch retrogradation and structural properties of debranched waxy corn starch (DWS). The results showed that only appropriate addition of MP (0.5 or 1%) can effectively promote the short-term retrogradation of DWS, while excessive MP (3 or 5%) had a negative effect. Gel hardness results revealed that the short-term retrogradation (24 h) of DWS could be divided into two phases. The retrogradation of DWS-MP gels mainly occurred at first stage (0–4 h), which was demonstrated by the rapid increase of gel hardness and relative crystallinity in this stage. In the second stage (4–24 h), DWS-MP gels were more likely to undergo the aggregation of starch granules as proved by SEM and particle size results. The degree of short-range ordered decreased during the total retrogradation stage. Overall, this work aims to provide an insight into the effect of non-starch polysaccharides on the short-term retrogradation of DWS.

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Only the appropriate addition of MP could accelerate the retrogradation of DWS.

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The short-term retrogradation of DWS could be divided into two stages.

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Gel hardness and relative crystallinity increased significantly in the first stage.

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The degree of short-range ordered reduced monotonically with retrogradation time.

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Starch particles mainly underwent aggregation in the second stage.

Changes in polysaccharides structure and bioactivity during Mesona chinensis Benth storage

Mesona chinensis Benth has been consumed as a functional food for many years. It is widely believed that storage times affect its health benefits. In this study, Mesona chinensis Benth polysaccharides with two different storage times (fresh and storage for 1 year) were prepared, namely, FMP and AMP. The physicochemical properties and bioactivity were comparatively assessed. Results indicated that FMP was mainly composed of galacturonic acid, galactose, and glucose with a molecular weight of 44.39 kDa. AMP was composed of galacturonic acid, galactose, and fructose with a molecular weight of 64.34 kDa. However, the principal structural characteristics of polysaccharides remained stable. Furthermore, assays of antioxidant activity showed that Mesona chinensis Benth polysaccharide had an antioxidant effect against DPPH radical, ABTS radical cation, among which FMP was stronger. Additionally, flow cytometry indicated that the apoptosis rate of FMP and AMP on HepG2 tumor cells was 22.50 ± 1.25% and 15.49 ± 1.30%, respectively. In general, antioxidant and antitumor activities of Mesona chinensis Benth polysaccharides were decreased as the storage for 1 year. The change of physicochemical properties was responsible for the enhanced bioactivities. These results explained how polysaccharides contributed to the decreased health benefits of Mesona chinensis Benth during storage.

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Comparatively investigated the polysaccharides of fresh Mesona chinensis Benth and sample storage for 1 year (FMP/AMP).

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Storage times affected the structural and physicochemical properties of Mesona chinensis Benth polysaccharide (MP).

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FMP and AMP both enhanced gel properties of wheat starch.

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FMP exhibited superior biological activities compared with AMP.

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This study might promote the application of MP.

Harvest date and variability in lipid bioactive compounds in Pistacia atlantica

BACKGROUND: The present work stands as an endeavor to uncover the ideal harvesting time of leaves in which they exhibits the maximum contents of bioactive molecules such as essential fatty acids, tocopherols and carotenoids. METHODS: A large scale investigation was carried out for the leaves of Pistacia atlantica involving a large number of populations collected over a period of four months during the growing season. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using both DPPH and β-carotene assays. The chemical percentage variability of the fatty acids was investigated using statistical analysis methods (Agglomerative Hierarchical Clustering “AHC”, also cited as CAH). OBJECTIVE: During the growth period, the effects of harvesting date on the total contents of lipids, tocopherols, carotenoids, fatty acids composition and also the antioxidant activities of the lipids were investigated. RESULTS: The content of myristic acid and other saturated fatty acids increased during leaf development, while linoleic, linolenic acids and unsaturated fatty acids decreased. The highest percentages of both linolenic C18:3 (27.25±5.92%) and linoleic acids C18:2 (17.68±3.80%) were obtained for the month of May at the first stage of leaves development (young leaves), but higher percentage levels of C18:1, were obtained for both consecutive months of August & September (28.83±6.50%; 27.79±8.63%, respectively) at intermediate developing stage. The lipids, tocopherols, carotenoids contents and the saturated and unsaturated fatty acids were dependent on the harvest time. The antioxidant activity showed higher powers at the first developing stage (May). Two main clusters and two sub-clusters of the fatty acids were distinguished and were also depending clearly on the period of the collection. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that the FA were dependent on the period of collection of the leaves. The main result of this study illustrate the nutritional potential (richness in MUFA such as C18:1, 2, 3) of the oil of P. atlantica leaves, which can provide opportunities for rational exploitation in the food industries or for medicinal purposes.

A dopamine-precursor-based nanoprodrug for in-situ drug release and treatment of acute liver failure by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome and facilitating liver regeneration

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a severe liver disease with high mortality rate. Inflammasome is a newly-found and promising target for effective treatment of immunity-associated diseases including liver disease, and dopamine has recently been proved as an inhibitor for NLRP3 inflammasome. This work demonstrates a diselenide-based nanodrug for ALF treatment through inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and enhancing liver regeneration. A diselenide-containing molecule (DSeSeD) has been synthesized via covalently linking two l-Dopa molecules to a diselenide linker, and the resultant molecules form stable nanoparticles in aqueous media and encapsulate SW033291 (an inhibitor of prostaglandin-degrading enzyme that hampers liver regeneration) to produce the nanodrug (SW@DSeSeD). As a nanoscale prodrug, SW@DSeSeD protects its payloads from decomposition in bloodstream upon administration, accumulates in liver of ALF mice, then responds to the overexpressed ROS and thereby releases SW033291 as well as a stable dopamine precursor that can transform into dopamine in hepatic cells, thus achieving significant therapeutic efficacy against ALF through inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation and enhancing hepatic regeneration. Moreover, multiple contrast agents have been loaded onto the nanodrug to achieve fluorescence, optoacoustic and magnetic resonance imaging for nanodrug location and disease evaluation.

Terpenoids from stigma maydis (Zea mays L.) alleviate hydrogen peroxide-induced SH-SY5Y cell injury by activating Nrf2

Five terpenoids (1-5), including three new ent-kaurane diterpenoids (1-3), one new ent-rosane type diterpenoid (4) and one known triterpenoid (5), were isolated from stigma maydis (Zea mays L.). The structures of the compounds were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analyses. The relative configurations of stigmanes A-D (1-4) were determined by NOESY experiments. In addition, the relative configuration of stigmane D (4) was further established by NMR calculations. The absolute configurations of these compounds were identified by a comparison of experimental and calculated specific rotations. The neuroprotective effects of these compounds against H₂O₂-induced injury in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were evaluated, and the results showed that among the compounds, 2 exhibited the most significant neuroprotection. Further study demonstrated that 2 could activate nuclear factor E2-related factor (Nrf2), downregulate apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and increase antioxidant enzyme activities in SH-SY5Y cells. However, the neuroprotective effect was reversed when Nrf2 was silenced. In conclusion, this study suggested that terpenoids from stigma maydis exerted neuroprotective effects through Nrf2 activation.

Effect of Mesona chinensis polysaccharide on the pasting, rheological, and structural properties of tapioca starch varying in gelatinization temperatures

The effects of Mesona chinensis polysaccharide (MCP) on the pasting, rheological properties, granule size, and water mobility of tapioca starch (TS) were investigated at different gelatinization temperatures (75 °C and 95 °C). The structures of tapioca starch-Mesona chinensis polysaccharide (TM) gels formed at different gelatinization temperatures were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results showed that the peak, trough, and final viscosities of TM-95 mixtures were lower than that of TM-75 mixtures. Addition of MCP had a significant reduce (p < 0.05) on the granule size and transversal relaxation time of TM mixtures at the two gelatinization temperatures. Rheological analysis also showed that the addition of MCP increased the consistency indexes (K) and decreased the flow behavior indexes (n) of TM-95 and TM-75 gels. XRD results confirmed the diffraction peak of TM-95 gels became blunt and wider, and the diffraction peak at 17° and 23° of TM-75 gels could be observed after MCP added. In addition, the microstructures of TM-75 gels were more compact than that of TM-95 gels. These results can promote the development of TS-based products and application of MCP at different gelatinization temperatures.

An Ethnobotanical Study on Qīng-Căo-Chá Tea in Taiwan

Herbal tea, a beverage prepared from a variety of plant materials excluding the leaves of the tea plant Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze of the family Theaceae, for a long time, has been consumed by most Chinese people for preventive and/or therapeutic health care. Usually, it is brewed or prepared as a decoction of local plants in water. The qīng-căo-chá tea, a commercial herbal tea, is the most common among many differently formulated herbal teas in Taiwan. For hundreds of years, qīng-căo-chá tea has played an important role in the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with the environmental conditions in Taiwan. However, research studies in this field have been insufficient. The raw material formulas of qīng-căo-chá tea have always been passed down from “masters” to “apprentices.” Hence, there is no systematic collation or record, and, therefore, there is a need to assess and confirm the composition, safety, and effectiveness of the raw materials. This study aimed to document the uses of Taiwan's qīng-căo-chá tea through a semi-structured interview survey and investigate the background of traditional practitioners, tea compositions, and plant origins and uses. This will improve our understanding of the knowledge inherited by the practitioners and the theoretical basis of the medicinal uses of these teas. In our field investigation, we visited 86 shops and assessed 71 raw ingredients of qīng-căo-chá tea. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to conduct the interviews. During the interviews, in addition to written records, audio and video recordings were made, and photographs were taken with the permission of the interviewees. The qīng-căo-chá raw materials have long been used as herbal teas, although more research should clarify their efficacy and safety. Traditional sellers of qīng-căo-chá tea were mainly males, and most shops have been in operation for more than 71 years. Some of the raw materials were derived from multiple sources, including different plants, and were often mixed without any safety concerns. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic ethnobotanical study on qīng-căo-chá tea that assesses and confirms its herbal ingredients. Our study represents a reference for herbal teas in Taiwan that can be used by the public and regulatory agencies.

Purification and characterization of antioxidant peptides from enzymatic hydrolysate of mungbean protein

In this study, the antioxidant activity of mungbean protein hydrolysate (MPH) was systematically investigated. MPH was fractionated by ultrafiltration into two major fractions (MPH-1 <3 kDa, MPH-2 >3 kDa). Fraction MPH-1, which exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, was further fractionated by gel column into three fractions (MPH-1A, MPH-1B, and MPH-1C). The antioxidant activity of the MPH-1B fraction was stronger than that of the other fractions. Eight mungbean peptides (P1-P8) were identified in fraction MPH-1B by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. Among them, peptides Trp-Gly-Asn (WGN, P2), Ala-Trp (AW, P4), Arg-Gly-Trp-Tyr-Glu (RGWYE, P5), and Gly-Val-Pro-Phe-Trp (GVPFW, P7) had high antioxidant activity. Moreover, these four peptides exerted protective effects against H₂ O₂ -induced cytotoxicity and regulated the MDA content, CAT activity, and total GSH content in HepG2 cells with specific observation. This study demonstrated the potential of MPH as a source of antioxidant peptides. This provides a scientific basis for the preparation of antioxidant peptides from mungbean protein. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study demonstrated the potential of the hydrolysate of mungbean protein as a source of antioxidant peptides and provided a scientific basis for the preparation of antioxidant peptides from mungbean protein.

Interaction between rice starch and Mesona chinensis Benth polysaccharide gels: Pasting and gelling properties

Interactions between starch and non-starch polysaccharides are very important for predicting and controlling the structure and function of starch-.based products. In this study, the effects of Mesona chinensis Benth polysaccharide (MCP) on the pasting, rheological, structural, and water mobility properties of rice starch (RS)-MCP gels were evaluated. Results indicated that MCP can increase the pasting viscosity, and gel properties of RS-MCP gels. Rheological results showed that RS-MCP gels exhibited shear-thinning behavior and that MCP can enhance the viscoelasticity of RS-MCP gels. Fourier-transform infrared spectra results indicated no covalent interaction between RS and MCP, and MCP could increase the degree of short-range order of RS-MCP gels. MCP also enhanced the water-retention capacity of RS-MCP gels. Scanning electron microscopy results suggested that MCP could decrease the pore sizes of RS gels and the microstructure of RS gels became more ordered at 0.1 % concentration of MCP. The results suggested that the amylose and MCP molecules interacted through hydrogen bonds and electrostatic forces, which enhanced the gelling properties of RS-MCP gels. Overall, this study shows the potential applications of MCP, and also provides the theoretical basis of interactions in starch-hydrocolloids systems.

Mesona chinensis Benth polysaccharides protect against oxidative stress and immunosuppression in cyclophosphamide-treated mice via MAPKs signal transduction pathways

In this study, the immune responses of Mesona chinensis Benth polysaccharides (MP) in vitro and in vivo were investigated. Results showed that MP presented immunomodulatory activities on macrophages and T lymphocytes in vitro. Compared with the cyclophosphamide (Cy)-induced immunosuppressive mice, the body weights, spleen indexes (3.45 to 4.91) and thymus indexes (0.78 to 1.04) of the mice treated with MP were increased, and the peripheral blood levels were recovered. MP treatment also increased superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities, and reduced malondialdehyde levels to enhance the total antioxidant capacity of Cy-treated mice. In addition, MP significantly elevated IL-2, NO, and IFN-γ secretions of splenic lymphocytes and spleen, while MP mainly exerts an immune effect by regulating T lymphocytes. Furthermore, MP possessed the immunomodulatory activity by up-regulating the phosphorylation levels of proteins factors (c-Jun N-terminal kinase, extracellular regulated protein kinase and p38 kinase) in mitogen activated protein kinases signaling pathways. This study suggested that MP may be explored as a natural immune stimulant for functional food and nutraceutical industries.

Radioprotective effects and mechanisms of animal, plant and microbial polysaccharides

Ionizing radiation is increasingly used to successfully diagnose many human health problems, but ionizing radiation may cause damage to organs/tissues in the living organisms such as the spleen, liver, skin, and brain. Many radiation protective agents have been discovered, with the deepening of radiation research. Unfortunately, these protective agents have many side effects, which cause drug resistance, nausea, vomiting, osteoporosis, etc. The polysaccharides extracted from natural sources are widely available and low in toxicity. In vivo and in vitro experiments have demonstrated that polysaccharides have anti-radiation activity through anti-oxidation, immune regulation, protection of hematopoietic system and protection against DNA damage. Recently, some studies have shown that polysaccharides were resistant to radiation. In the review, the anti-radiation activities of polysaccharides from different sources are summarized, and the anti-radiation mechanisms are discussed as well. It can be used to develop more effective anti-radiation management drugs.

Mung Bean Protein Hydrolysates Protect Mouse Liver Cell Line Nctc-1469 Cell from Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Cell Injury

Mung bean is nutritious and rich in protein (19.5%–33.1%). However, there are few studies on mung bean protein active peptides so the mung bean protein hydrolysates (MBPHs) were investigated for evaluating their ability to clear intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and regulating the ability of antioxidant enzymes on NCTC-1469 cells. Results showed that MBPHs, MBPHs-I (molecular weight < 3 kDa), MBPHs-II (molecular weight between 3 and 10 kDa), and MBPHs-III (molecular weight > 10 kDa) could all improve the survival rate of cells compared with the model group. MBPHs, MBPHs-I, and MBPHs-II could significantly decrease the content of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and reduce the generation of malonaldehyde (MDA) at a concentration of 0.4 mg/mL. Regarding the intracellular ROS, the result showed that MBPHs-I significantly reduced the production of ROS (from 58.3% to 26.6%) and had a dose-dependent relationship. In addition, the amino acid analysis showed that MBPHs-I had a balanced amino acid composition. MBPHs-I is rich in lysine but was deficient in cereals. Therefore, the hydrophobic and aromatic amino acids in MBPHs-I were high, which could improve its antioxidant activity. According to the results, MBPHs-I was the best and most potent natural antioxidant and it can contribute to drug development and medical application.

Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of a Low-Molecular-Weight Xanthan Gum

In the present work, a low-molecular-weight xanthan gum (LW-XG) was successfully obtained via biodegradation of commercial xanthan by the endophytic fungus Chaetomium globosum CGMCC 6882. The monosaccharide composition of LW-XG was glucose, mannose, and glucuronic acid in a molar ratio of 1.63:1.5:1.0. The molecular weight of LW-XG was 4.07 × 10⁴ Da and much smaller than that of commercial xanthan (2.95 × 10⁶ Da). Antioxidant assays showed that LW-XG had a good scavenging ability on DPPH radicals, superoxide anions, and hydroxyl radicals and good ferric reducing power. Moreover, LW-XG exhibited excellent protective effect on H₂O₂-injured Caco-2 cells. Results of this work suggested that LW-XG could be used in foods or pharmaceuticals to alleviate and resist the oxidative damage induced by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species.