Health effect of vegetable-based diet: lettuce consumption improves cholesterol metabolism and antioxidant status in the rat

Elemental Profiling of Common Anti-diabetic Medicinal Plants of Swat and Peshawar Districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Province of Pakistan: An Investigation Using PIXE and ICP-OES

The use of medicinal plants is integral to addressing liver, heart, lung, and other metabolic issues. These plants are rich in vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which collectively help in lowering intestinal glucose absorption and increasing insulin secretion by pancreatic tissues. Elemental analysis, encompassing major, minor, and trace elements, was performed on various parts (leaves, roots, and seeds) of 16 anti-diabetic medicinal plants collected from different regions of Swat and Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan. This analysis utilized proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) techniques. Our PIXE and ICP-OES analysis revealed the presence of major (Ca, K, S, P), minor (Si, Cl), and trace (Al, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Cr, and Sc) elements in various parts (leaves, roots, and seeds) of the 16 anti-diabetic medicinal plants studied. Specifically, elements such as Ca, K, Cr, Cu, Mn, Zn, and Se were detected, all of which are known to contribute in maintaining normal glucose metabolism. Notably, Zn and Se are crucial trace elements for the synthesis, secretion, and action of insulin. Significant Zn concentrations were observed in ten anti-diabetic medicinal plants: Albizia lebbeck (AL), Atropa acuminata (AA), Avena fatua (AF), Citrus medica (CM), Commiphora wightii (CW), Cymbopogon citratus (CC), Daucus carota (DC), Ziziphus mauritiana (FM), Hyoscyamus niger (HN), and Martynia annua (MA), and significant Se concentrations were observed in twelve medicinal plants, i.e., Albizia lebbeck (AL), Allium sativum (AS), Atropa acuminata (AA), Avena fatua (AF), Cannabis sativa (CS), Capparis spinosa (CaS), Commiphora wightii (CW), Cymbopogon citratus (CC), Datura alba (DA), Daucus carota (DC), Ziziphus mauritiana (FM), and Hyoscyamus niger (HN). Our study's elemental analysis using PIXE and ICP-OES on various parts of 16 medicinal plants identified a significant number of useful elements. Elements such as Ca, K, S, P, Al, Si, Cl, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, and Cr were identified and quantified. These findings support the potential use of these plants in managing diabetes and highlight the importance of elemental profiling in understanding their therapeutic properties.

Non-Destructive Inspection of Physicochemical Indicators of Lettuce at Rosette Stage Based on Visible/Near-Infrared Spectroscopy

Lettuce is a globally important cash crop, valued by consumers for its nutritional content and pleasant taste. However, there is limited research on the changes in the growth indicators of lettuce during its growth period in domestic settings. Quality assessment primarily relies on subjective evaluations, resulting in significant variability. This study focused on hydroponically grown lettuce during the rosette stage and investigated the patterns of changes in the indicators and spectral curves over time. By employing spectral preprocessing and selecting characteristic wavelengths, three models were developed to predict the indicators. The results showed that the optimal model structures were S_G-UVE-PLSR (SSC and vitamin C) and Nor-CARS-PLSR (moisture content). The PLSR models achieved prediction set correlation coefficients of 0.8648, 0.8578, and 0.8047, with residual prediction deviations of 1.9685, 1.9568, and 1.6689, respectively. The optimal models were integrated into a portable device, using real-time analysis software written in Matlab2021a, for the prediction of the physicochemical indicators of lettuce during the rosette stage. The results demonstrated prediction set correlation coefficients of 0.8215, 0.8472, and 0.7671, with root mean square errors of prediction of 0.5348, 1.5813, and 2.3347 for a sample size of 180. The small discrepancies between the predicted and actual values indicate that the developed device can meet the requirements for real-time detection.

The Cardioprotective Role of Nitrate-Rich Vegetables

Nitric oxide (NO) is an inorganic radical produced by both the non-enzymatic nitrate (NO3-)-nitrite (NO2-)-NO pathway and enzymatic reactions catalyzed by nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Also, as nitrate and nitrite from dietary and other endogenous sources can be reduced back to nitric oxide in vivo, the endogenous NO level can be increased through the consumption of nitrate-rich vegetables. Ingestion of dietary NO3- has beneficial effects which have been attributed to a subsequent increase in NO: a signaling molecule that may regulate various systems, including the cardiovascular system. A diet rich in NO3- from green leafy and root vegetables has cardioprotective effects, with beetroot products being particularly good sources of NO3-. For example, various studies have demonstrated a significant increase in nitrite levels (regarded as markers of NO) in plasma after the intake of beetroot juice. The present review describes the current literature concerning the role of nitrate-rich vegetables (especially beetroot products) in the prophylaxis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review is based on studies identified in electronic databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Knowledge, Sci Finder, Web of Science, and SCOPUS.

Protective Effect of Black Seed and Lettuce Oils Against Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats

<b>Background and Objective:</b> The liver is one of the organs that play an essential role in the human body, including supporting metabolism, immune functions, digestive system, detoxification, storage of vitamins and other functions. This investigation aimed to study the protective effects of black seed and lettuce oil against hepatotoxicity as induced by paracetamol in experimental rats. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> Twenty male Sprague-Dawley albino rats weighing 150±5 g were divided randomly into four groups (5 rats each) and distributed as follows; 1st group was controlled negative (C -ve group), 2nd group controlled positive (orally administered with 500 mg/kg b.wt., paracetamol), 3rd and 4th groups were orally administered with black seed oil and lettuce oil at a dose of 1 mL/kg b.wt., each) as a preventive dose. All rats were sacrificed and blood was collected for biochemical analysis and then statistically analyzed. <b>Results:</b> The rat administered with black seed and lettuce oils enhanced body weight gain, food intake and feed efficiency ratio. Moreover, exhibited a significant reduction in the liver enzymes AST, ALT, ALP and TBIL. Meanwhile, black seed and lettuce oils significantly improved kidney functions, lipid profiles and some immune biomarkers including creatine kinase (CK), Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH). <b>Conclusion:</b> This study revealed that the oils of black seed (<i>Nigella sativa</i>) and lettuce (<i>Lactuca sativa</i>) have a protective role in improving body weight gain, food intake, feed efficiency ratio, liver enzymes, kidney functions, lipid profiles and some immune biomarkers against paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in experimental rats.

Identification and characterization of Glycolate oxidase gene family in garden lettuce (Lactuca sativa cv. 'Salinas') and its response under various biotic, abiotic, and developmental stresses

Glycolate oxidase (GLO) is an FMN-containing enzyme localized in peroxisomes and performs in various molecular and biochemical mechanisms. It is a key player in plant glycolate and glyoxylate accumulation pathways. The role of GLO in disease and stress resistance is well-documented in various plant species. Although studies have been conducted regarding the role of GLO genes from spinach on a microbial level, the direct response of GLO genes to various stresses in short-season and leafy plants like lettuce has not been published yet. The genome of Lactuca sativa cultivar 'Salinas' (v8) was used to identify GLO gene members in lettuce by performing various computational analysis. Dual synteny, protein-protein interactions, and targeted miRNA analyses were conducted to understand the function of GLO genes. The identified GLO genes showed further clustering into two groups i.e., glycolate oxidase (GOX) and hydroxyacid oxidase (HAOX). Genes were observed to be distributed unevenly on three chromosomes, and syntenic analysis revealed that segmental duplication was prevalent. Thus, it might be the main reason for GLO gene diversity in lettuce. Almost all LsGLO genes showed syntenic blocks in respective plant genomes under study. Protein-protein interactions of LsGLO genes revealed various functional enrichments, mainly photorespiration, and lactate oxidation, and among biological processes oxidative photosynthetic carbon pathway was highly significant. Results of in-depth analyses disclosed the interaction of GLO genes with other members of the glycolate pathway and the activity of GLO genes in various organs and developmental stages in lettuce. The extensive genome evaluation of GLO gene family in garden lettuce is believed to be a reference for cloning and studying functional analyses of GLO genes and characterizing other members of glycolate/glyoxylate biosynthesis pathway in various plant species.

The interaction between CRY1 Polymorphism and Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) on cardiovascular risk factors in overweight women and women with obesity: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

According to some studies, diet can be interaction with CRY1 polymorphism and may be related to obesity and the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). So, this study examined the interaction between CRY1 polymorphism and AHEI on cardiovascular risk factors in overweight women and women with obesity.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed on 377 Iranian women with overweight and obesity aged 18-48(BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). Dietary intake was evaluated by the use of a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) with 147 items. The AHEI was calculated based on previous studies. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were assessed and the bioelectrical impedance analysis method was used for body analysis. The rs2287161 was genotyped by the restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Objects were divided into three groups based on rs2287161 genotypes.

RESULTS

Our findings determined that the prevalence of the C allele was 51.9% and the G allele was 48.0%. The mean age and BMI were 36.6 ± 9.1years and 31 ± 4 kg/m2 respectively. After controlling for confounders (BMI, age, total energy intake, and physical activity), this study demonstrated that there was a significant interaction between CC genotype and adherence to AHEI on odds of hyper LDL (OR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.24-3.05, P for interaction = 0.004), hypertension (OR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.11-2.93, P for interaction = 0.01) and hyperglycemia (OR = 1.56, 95% CI = 0.98-2.47, P for interaction = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that adherence to AHEI can reduce the odds of hyper LDL, hypertension, and hyperglycemia in the CC genotype of rs2287161.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of Lactuca Sativa syrup in controlling pain after periodontal flap surgery: a split-mouth, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

Effective pain control after oral surgeries including periodontal flap surgery is one of the biggest problems in the periodontology field. The use of Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain after periodontal flap surgery is common, but these have some adverse side effects such as impaired platelet function and causing digestive problems. Today, the tendency to use omedicinal plants is more than synthetic drugs due to their safety. Therefore, we designed a split-mouth randomized controlled clinical trial to evaluate the effects of Lactuca Sativa (L. Sativa) syrup as an adjunct therapy in reducing pain after periodontal flap surgery.

METHODS

This split-mouth, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed on 26 subjects. Patients were assigned for two surgery. Primary surgery was performed on the right maxilla and after 30 days, secondary surgery was performed on the left maxilla. In primary surgery, patients consumed L. Sativa syrup (3 times a day for 72 h) and in secondary surgery, patients consumed placebo syrup (3 times a day for 72 h). Pain intensity was measured at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after a periodontal flap surgery in both surgeries using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). All patients received their routine drugs, including analgesics. The number of analgesics used after surgery was recorded. Statistical analysis of t-test was used to compare the results of the two surgery.

RESULTS

The results showed that the mean pain based on VAS score at 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after primary periodontal flap surgery was significantly reduced compared to the secondary periodontal flap surgery (p<0.001). The results also showed that the use of analgesics after 72 h of surgery was significantly reduced in the primary periodontal flap surgery compared to the secondary periodontal flap surgery (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

According to the results of this study, L.Sativa syrup can be effective as adjuvant therapy in reducing pain after periodontal flap surgery.

Stress Response to Climate Change and Postharvest Handling in Two Differently Pigmented Lettuce Genotypes: Impact on Alternaria alternata Invasion and Mycotoxin Production

Many species of Alternaria are important pathogens that cause plant diseases and postharvest rots. They lead to significant economic losses in agriculture and affect human and animal health due to their capacity to produce mycotoxins. Therefore, it is necessary to study the factors that can result in an increase in A. alternata. In this study, we discuss the mechanism by which phenol content protects from A. alternata, since the red oak leaf cultivar (containing higher phenols) showed lower invasion than the green one, Batavia, and no mycotoxin production. A climate change scenario enhanced fungal growth in the most susceptible cultivar, green lettuce, likely because elevated temperature and CO₂ levels decrease plant N content, modifying the C/N ratio. Finally, while the abundance of the fungi was maintained at similar levels after keeping the lettuces for four days at 4 °C, this postharvest handling triggered TeA and TEN mycotoxin synthesis, but only in the green cultivar. Therefore, the results demonstrated that invasion and mycotoxin production are cultivar- and temperature-dependent. Further research should be directed to search for resistant cultivars and effective postharvest strategies to reduce the toxicological risk and economic losses related to this fungus, which are expected to increase in a climate change scenario.

Fermented Lettuce Extract Containing Nitric Oxide Metabolites Attenuates Inflammatory Parameters in Model Mice and in Human Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) contains various bioactive compounds that can reduce the severity of inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to identify therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of fermented lettuce extract (FLE) containing stable nitric oxide (NO) on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in mice and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (MH7A line) from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). DBA/1 mice were immunized with bovine type II collagen and orally administered FLE for 14 days. On day 36, mouse sera and ankle joints were collected for serological and histological analysis, respectively. Consuming FLE inhibited RA development, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokine productions, synovial inflammation, and cartilage degradation. The therapeutic effects of FLE in CIA mice were similar to those of methotrexate (MTX), which is typically used to treat RA. In vitro, FLE suppressed the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad signaling pathway in MH7A cells. We also demonstrated that FLE inhibited TGF-β-induced cell migration, suppressed MMP-2/9 expression, inhibited MH7A cell proliferation, and increased the expression of autophagy markers LC3B and p62 in a dose-dependent manner. Our data suggest that FLE could induce autophagosome formations in the early of stages of autophagy while inhibiting their degradation in the later stages. In conclusion, FLE is a potential therapeutic agent for RA.

Specific botanical groups of fruit and vegetable consumption and liver cancer and chronic liver disease mortality: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Beyond alcohol and coffee, the relationship between other dietary factors, including specific vegetables and fruits, and liver outcomes remains poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the associations between fruit and vegetable intake with the risk of liver cancer and chronic liver disease (CLD) mortality.

METHODS

This study was based on the National Institutes of Health-American Association of Retired Persons Diet and Health Study, including 485,403 participants aged 50-71 y from 1995 to 1996. Fruit and vegetable intake was estimated using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the multivariable hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for liver cancer incidence and CLD mortality.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 15.5 y, 947 incident liver cancers and 986 CLD deaths (other than liver cancer) were confirmed. A higher intake of total vegetables was associated with a lower risk of liver cancer (HRQuintile 5 vs. Quintile 1 = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.59, 0.89; Ptrend < 0.001). When further subclassified into botanical groups, the observed inverse association was mainly driven by lettuce and the cruciferous family (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, etc.) (Ptrend < 0.005). Additionally, higher total vegetable intake was associated with a lower risk of CLD mortality (HRQuintile5 vs. Quintile1 = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.50, 0.76; Ptrend < 0.001). Inverse associations were observed for lettuce, sweet potatoes, cruciferous vegetables, legumes, and carrots with CLD mortality (all Ptrend < 0.005). In contrast, total fruit intake was not associated with liver cancer or CLD mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher intakes of total vegetables, especially lettuce and cruciferous vegetables, were associated with lower liver cancer risk. Higher intakes of lettuce, sweet potatoes, cruciferous vegetables, legumes, and carrots were associated with a lower risk of CLD mortality.

Comparison of rockwool and coir for greenhouse cucumber production: chemical element, plant growth, and fruit quality

Replacing rockwool with more sustainable materials, such as coir, is an effective measure to improve the sustainability of soilless cultivation in the greenhouse. To comprehensively assess the feasibility of coir before using it widely, coir was compared to rockwool as a cucumber cultivation substrate to evaluate its performance on mineral elements in the substrates, drainage, and in the plants. Plant growth, amino acids, and flavor substances of cucumber fruits were also compared between the two substrates. Compared to rockwool, coir significantly increased the LAI and yield of cucumber crops as well as contents of Ca, Mg, S, Cl and Zn in leaves and fruits. Contents of P, K, Ca, Mg, Cl, Zn, and B in the substrate were higher for coir while those of Fe, Cu, and Mn in the drainage lower. Moreover, coir also significantly increased contents of amino acids (His, Leu, Ile, Phe, Lys, Asp, Glu and Pro) and flavor substance (TC, PS, TP, CLL, CuB, and LA) in cucumber fruits. Our results demonstrated the potential of coir as a replacement of rockwool to improve sustainability of soilless cultivation in the greenhouse.

Phytochemicals, Nutrition, Metabolism, Bioavailability, and Health Benefits in Lettuce-A Comprehensive Review

Lettuce is one of the most famous leafy vegetables worldwide with lots of applications from food to other specific uses. There are different types in the lettuce group for consumers to choose from. Additionally, lettuce is an excellent source of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and chlorophyll with related health benefits. At the same time, nutrient composition and antioxidant compounds are different between lettuce varieties, especially for green and red lettuce types. The benefit of lettuce consumption depends on its composition, particularly antioxidants, which can function as nutrients. The health benefits rely on their biochemical effect when reaching the bloodstream. Some components can be released from the food matrix and altered in the digestive system. Indeed, the bioaccessibility of lettuce is measuring the quantity of these compounds released from the food matrix during digestion, which is important for health-promoting features. Extraction of bioactive compounds is one of the new trends observed in lettuce and is necessarily used for several application fields. Therefore, this review aims to demonstrate the nutritional value of lettuce and its pharmacological properties. Due to their bioaccessibility and bioavailability, the consumer will be able to comprehensively understand choosing a healthier lettuce diet. The common utilization pattern of lettuce extracted nutrients will also be summarized for further direction.

Biocontrol properties from phyllospheric bacteria isolated from Solanum lycopersicum and Lactuca sativa and genome mining of antimicrobial gene clusters

BACKGROUND

Biocontrol agents are sustainable eco-friendly alternatives for chemical pesticides that cause adverse effects in the environment and toxicity in animals including humans. An improved understanding of the phyllosphere microbiology is of vital importance for biocontrol development. Most studies have been directed towards beneficial plant-microbe interactions and ignore the pathogens that might affect humans when consuming vegetables. In this study we extended this perspective and investigated potential biocontrol strains isolated from tomato and lettuce phyllosphere that can promote plant growth and potentially antagonize human pathogens as well as plant pathogens. Subsequently, we mined into their genomes for discovery of antimicrobial biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), that will be further characterized.

RESULTS

The antimicrobial activity of 69 newly isolated strains from a healthy tomato and lettuce phyllosphere against several plant and human pathogens was screened. Three strains with the highest antimicrobial activity were selected and characterized (Bacillus subtilis STRP31, Bacillus velezensis SPL51, and Paenibacillus sp. PL91). All three strains showed a plant growth promotion effect on tomato and lettuce. In addition, genome mining of the selected isolates showed the presence of a large variety of biosynthetic gene clusters. A total of 35 BGCs were identified, of which several are already known, but also some putative novel ones were identified. Further analysis revealed that among the novel BGCs, one previously unidentified NRPS and two bacteriocins are encoded, the gene clusters of which were analyzed in more depth.

CONCLUSIONS

Three recently isolated strains of the Bacillus genus were identified that have high antagonistic activity against lettuce and tomato plant pathogens. Known and unknown antimicrobial BGCs were identified in these antagonistic bacterial isolates, indicating their potential to be used as biocontrol agents. Our study serves as a strong incentive for subsequent purification and characterization of novel antimicrobial compounds that are important for biocontrol.

Bioactive compounds in lettuce: Highlighting the benefits to human health and impacts of preharvest and postharvest practices

Lettuce is one of the most commonly consumed leafy vegetables worldwide and is available throughout the entire year. Lettuce is also a significant source of natural phytochemicals. These compounds, including glycosylated flavonoids, phenolic acids, carotenoids, the vitamin B groups, ascorbic acid, tocopherols, and sesquiterpene lactones, are essential nutritional bioactive compounds. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the composition of health-promoting compounds in different types of lettuce, the potential health benefits of lettuce in reducing the risks of chronic diseases, and the effect of preharvest and postharvest practices on the biosynthesis and accumulation of health-promoting compounds in lettuce.

Morphological and Physiological Response of Different Lettuce Genotypes to Salt Stress

Salt stress (SS) refers to excessive soluble salt concentrations in the plant root zone. SS also causes cellular water deficits, ion toxicity, and oxidative stress in plants, all of which can cause growth inhibition, molecular damage, and even plant mortality. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) has a threshold electrical conductivity of 1.3–2.0 dS/m. Thus, this research focused on physiological, morphological, and biochemical attributes in multiple lettuce genotypes under SS compared to plants grown under control conditions. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. One month after planting, the salt treatment was applied at the rate of 100 millimoles (mM). The 0 mM salt in water treatment was considered the control. A significant effect of SS on different morphological and physiological traits was observed in one-month-old lettuce plants. PI 212099, Buttercrunch-1, and PI 171676 were highly salt-tolerant. Genotypes with high salt tolerance usually had poor growth potential under control conditions. This suggests that the morphological and physiological response of 38 lettuce cultivars towards SS is genotype dependent. Identifying SS’s physiological, morphological, and biochemical attributes in lettuce may help plant-breeders develop salt-tolerant lettuce genotypes.

Prohydrojasmon Promotes the Accumulation of Phenolic Compounds in Red Leaf Lettuce

Prohydrojasmon (PDJ) is a synthetic jasmonate derivative that is primarily used as a growth regulator, but its mechanism of action is unclear. In this study, we elucidated the effects of PDJ on phytochemical production in red leaf lettuce. The PDJ treatments promoted the accumulation of phenolic compounds in aerial plant parts. An LC-MS analysis revealed that these accumulated compounds were identified as cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, cyanidin-3-O-(6″-O-malonyl)-glucoside and cyanidin-3-O-(6″-O-malonyl)-glucoside methyl ester. The abundance of these compounds in lettuce extracts increased significantly in response to the PDJ treatment. Additionally, the LC-MS analysis also identified the accumulated phenolic compounds in the extracts of PDJ-treated lettuce, including caffeoyltartaric acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeoylmalic acid, chicoric acid, and dicaffeoylquinic acid. Gene expression analyses indicated the PDJ treatments upregulated the expression of PAL, F3H, and ANS genes in lettuce. These results suggest that PDJ treatments enhance the expression of genes involved in the synthesis of anthocyanins and phenolic compounds, resulting in an increase in the quantities of these compounds, which reportedly have various functions affecting human physiology.

Dataset on the effect of foliar application of different concentrations of silicon dioxide and organosilicon compounds on the growth and biochemical contents of oak leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. crispa) grown in phytotron conditions

This article presents comparative data regarding the effect of foliar application of silicon dioxide and organosilicon compounds on soilless-grown Oak leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. crispa). Data were derived from dry and fresh samples. Total nitrogen, total antioxidants capacity, total phenolic content, ascorbic acid, total pigments concentrations and growth parameters varied in response to the concentrations of the used preparations (silicon dioxide and organosilicon compounds). Capillary zone electrophoresis, spectrophotometry and coulometric analyzer were the principal involved methods. Data of total phenolic content, antioxidants capacity and ascorbic acid concentrations can provide physiological health benefits as functional foods along with an insight to plant stress physiology. Chlorophyll a and b concentrations, nitrogen content, dry matter content, plant height and fresh weights contribute to the understanding of physiological and biometric plants growth parameters.

The acute effect of incorporating lettuce or watercress into a moderately high-fat meal on postprandial lipid, glycemic response, and plasma inflammatory cytokines in healthy young men: a randomized crossover trial

BACKGROUND

Postprandial responses to food mostly depend on the composition of the meal and the consumption of vegetables may modulate this postprandial state. In this study, the effects of lettuce or watercress consumption with a moderately high-fat meal (40% kcal from fat) on postprandial lipemia, glycemia, and inflammatory cytokines were determined in healthy men.

METHODS

This randomized, 3-arm, crossover study was conducted in sixteen healthy young men with a mean ± SEM age and body mass index (in kg/m2) of 22.8 ± 0.5 years old and 23.7 ± 1.16, respectively. Lettuce and watercress were added to the test meal in portions of 100 g and cellulose was added to the control meal. Thereafter, blood samples were collected by passing 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 h for analysis. The postprandial response was measured in plasma glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, high-density-lipoproteins cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density-lipoproteins cholesterol (LDL-C), as the area under the postprandial curve (AUC). Moreover, plasma tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined once before and once 4 h after the meal's consumption.

RESULTS

The 0-4-h AUCs for glucose (385.7, 361.9, and 382.3 mg/dL for the control, lettuce, and watercress meals, respectively) were calculated to be lower when meal was consumed with lettuce compared to the control (P < 0.05) and watercress (P < 0.01) meals. The maximum values of insulin were obtained as 43.8 ± 18.8, 33.5 ± 19.5, and 42.8 ± 17.7 μIU/mL for the control, lettuce, and watercress meals, respectively. As well, the lettuce-containing meal more reduced the AUC for insulin compared with the control (P < 0.05), but not watercress. Notably, plasma TG, total cholesterol, HDL-C, and LDL-C had no significant differences among the meals. Moreover, the levels of plasma IL-6 and TNF-α did not differ among the meals.

CONCLUSION

In this study on healthy men, the addition of lettuce to a moderately high-fat meal delayed the postprandial glycemic response. However, the effect of the consumption of these vegetables on postprandial responses in subjects with cardiometabolic risk factors remains to be elucidated yet. This clinical trial was registered at the Iran Clinical Trials Registration Office (IRCT) on March 3, 2018, with an ID of IRCT20160702028742N4 ( https://www.irct.ir/user/trial/23233/view ).

Soilless Cultivation: Dynamically Changing Chemical Properties and Physical Conditions of Organic Substrates Influence the Plant Phenotype of Lettuce

In agriculture, the increasing scarcity of arable land and the increase in extreme weather conditions has led to a large proportion of crops, especially vegetables, being cultivated in protected soilless cultivation methods to provide people with sufficient and high-quality food. Rockwool has been used for decades as a soil substitute in soilless cultivation. Since rockwool is not biodegradable, it is disposed in landfills after its use, which nowadays leads to ecological concerns and drives the search for alternative substrates, especially organic materials. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of organic materials (wood chips, sphagnum moss, and hemp fibers) in relation to rockwool substrate on plant growth and quality of lettuce as a result of physical and chemical properties of the mentioned substrates. We were able to show that sphagnum moss is a suitable substitute substrate for lettuce cultivation, contrary to hemp. All investigated substrates presented good physical properties, but differed in their decomposition stability. Within 8 weeks, 30% of the hemp and about 10% of both sphagnum and wood materials were degraded. It was concluded that the increased microbiological activity immobilized nitrogen and led to oxygen deficiency in the rhizosphere and resulted in increased phenolic acid contents in lettuce but poor yield on hemp. Sphagnum caused a pH decrease and accumulation of ammonium in the nutrient solution and allowed the highest yield for lettuce at moderate phenolic acid contents. Low yields were obtained on wood, which could possibly be increased by optimized nutrient solution, so that wood as an alternative to rockwool was not excluded. By applying used organic substrates as soil additives on arable land, the nutrients accumulated in it might fertilize the open field crops, thus saving mineral fertilizers. This, together with the avoidance of waste, would contribute to a greater sustainability.

The potential role of sesquiterpene lactones isolated from medicinal plants in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome - A review

Metabolic syndrome comprises a cluster of metabolic disorders related to the development of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In latter years, plant secondary metabolites have become of special interest because of their potential role in preventing and managing metabolic syndrome. Sesquiterpene lactones constitute a large and diverse group of biologically active compounds widely distributed in several medicinal plants used for the treatment of metabolic disorders. The structural diversity and the broad spectrum of biological activities of these compounds drew significant interests in the pharmacological applications. This review describes selected sesquiterpene lactones that have been experimentally validated for their biological activities related to risk factors of metabolic syndrome, together with their mechanisms of action. The potential beneficial effects of sesquiterpene lactones discussed in this review demonstrate that these substances represent remarkable compounds with a diversity of molecular structure and high biological activity, providing new insights into the possible role in metabolic syndrome management.

The Metabolic Reprogramming Induced by Sub-Optimal Nutritional and Light Inputs in Soilless Cultivated Green and Red Butterhead Lettuce

Sub-optimal growing conditions have a major effect on plants; therefore, large efforts are devoted to maximizing the availability of agricultural inputs to crops. To increase the sustainable use of non-renewable inputs, attention is currently given to the study of plants under non-optimal conditions. In this work, we investigated the impact of sub-optimal macrocations availability and light intensity in two lettuce varieties that differ for the accumulation of secondary metabolites (i.e., 'Red Salanova' and 'Green Salanova'). Photosynthesis-related measurements and untargeted metabolomics were used to identify responses and pathways involved in stress resilience. The pigmented ('Red') and the non-pigmented ('Green Salanova') lettuce exhibited distinctive responses to sub-optimal conditions. The cultivar specific metabolomic signatures comprised a broad modulation of metabolism, including secondary metabolites, phytohormones, and membrane lipids signaling cascade. Several stress-related metabolites were altered by either treatment, including polyamines (and other nitrogen-containing compounds), phenylpropanoids, and lipids. The metabolomics and physiological response to macrocations availability and light intensity also implies that the effects of low-input sustainable farming systems should be evaluated considering a range of cultivar-specific positive and disadvantageous metabolic effects in addition to yield and other socio-economic parameters.

Selenium Biofortification of Crop Food by Beneficial Microorganisms

Selenium (Se) is essential for human health, however, Se is deficient in soil in many places all around the world, resulting in human diseases, such as notorious Keshan disease and Keshin–Beck disease. Therefore, Se biofortification is a popular approach to improve Se uptake and maintain human health. Beneficial microorganisms, including mycorrhizal and root endophytic fungi, dark septate fungi, and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs), show multiple functions, especially increased plant nutrition uptake, growth and yield, and resistance to abiotic stresses. Such functions can be used for Se biofortification and increased growth and yield under drought and salt stress. The present review summarizes the use of mycorrhizal fungi and PGPRs in Se biofortification, aiming to improving their practical use.

Grown to be Blue-Antioxidant Properties and Health Effects of Colored Vegetables. Part II: Leafy, Fruit, and Other Vegetables

The current trend for substituting synthetic compounds with natural ones in the design and production of functional and healthy foods has increased the research interest about natural colorants. Although coloring agents from plant origin are already used in the food and beverage industry, the market and consumer demands for novel and diverse food products are increasing and new plant sources are explored. Fresh vegetables are considered a good source of such compounds, especially when considering the great color diversity that exists among the various species or even the cultivars within the same species. In the present review we aim to present the most common species of colored vegetables, focusing on leafy and fruit vegetables, as well as on vegetables where other plant parts are commercially used, with special attention to blue color. The compounds that are responsible for the uncommon colors will be also presented and their beneficial health effects and antioxidant properties will be unraveled.

Impact of ApoE Polymorphism and Physical Activity on Plasma Antioxidant Capability and Erythrocyte Membranes

The allele epsilon 4 (ε4) of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). ApoE protein plays a pivotal role in the synthesis and metabolism of amyloid beta (Aβ), the major component of the extracellular plaques that constitute AD pathological hallmarks. Regular exercise is an important preventive/therapeutic tool in aging and AD. Nevertheless, the impact of physical exercise on the well-being of erythrocytes, a good model of oxidative stress and neurodegenerative processes, remains to be investigated, particularly depending on ApoE polymorphism. Herein, we evaluate the oxidative status, Aβ levels, and the membrane's composition of erythrocytes in a cohort of human subjects. In our hands, the plasma antioxidant capability (AOC), erythrocytes membrane fluidity, and the amount of phosphatidylcholine (PC) were demonstrated to be significantly decreased in the ApoE ε4 genotype and non-active subjects. In contrast, erythrocyte Aβ content and lipid peroxidation increased in ε4 carriers. Regular physical exercise was associated with an increased plasma AOC and membrane fluidity, as well as to a reduced amount of erythrocytes Aβ. Altogether, these data highlight the influence of the ApoE genotype on erythrocytes' well-being and confirm the positive impact of regular physical exercise.

Phenomic and Physiological Analysis of Salinity Effects on Lettuce

Salinity is a rising concern in many lettuce-growing regions. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) is sensitive to salinity, which reduces plant biomass, and causes leaf burn and early senescence. We sought to identify physiological traits important in salt tolerance that allows lettuce adaptation to high salinity while maintaining its productivity. Based on previous salinity tolerance studies, one sensitive and one tolerant genotype each was selected from crisphead, butterhead, and romaine, as well as leaf types of cultivated lettuce and its wild relative, L. serriola L. Physiological parameters were measured four weeks after transplanting two-day old seedlings into 350 mL volume pots filled with sand, hydrated with Hoagland nutrient solution and grown in a growth chamber. Salinity treatment consisted of gradually increasing concentrations of NaCl and CaCl2 from 0 mM/0 mM at the time of transplanting, to 30 mM/15 mM at the beginning of week three, and maintaining it until harvest. Across the 10 genotypes, leaf area and fresh weight decreased 0-64% and 16-67%, respectively, under salinity compared to the control. Salinity stress increased the chlorophyll index by 4-26% in the cultivated genotypes, while decreasing it by 5-14% in the two wild accessions. Tolerant lines less affected by elevated salinity were characterized by high values of the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters Fv/Fm and instantaneous photosystem II quantum yield (QY), and lower leaf transpiration.

The Health Promoting Bioactivities of Lactuca sativa can be Enhanced by Genetic Modulation of Plant Secondary Metabolites

Plant secondary metabolites are protective dietary constituents and rol genes evidently increase the synthesis of these versatile phytochemicals. This study subjected a globally important vegetable, lettuce (Lactuca sativa) to a combination of untargeted metabolomics (LC-QTof-MS) and in vitro bioactivity assays. Specifically, we examined the differences between untransformed cultured lettuce (UnT), lettuce transformed with either rolABC (RA) or rolC (RC) and commercially grown (COM) lettuce. Of the 5333 metabolite features aligned, deconvoluted and quantified 3637, 1792 and 3737 significantly differed in RA, RC and COM, respectively, compared with UnT. In all cases the number of downregulated metabolites exceeded the number increased. In vitro bioactivity assays showed that RA and RC (but not COM) significantly improved the ability of L. sativa to inhibit α-glucosidase, inhibit dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) and stimulate GLP-1 secretion. We putatively identified 76 lettuce metabolites (sesquiterpene lactones, non-phenolic and phenolic compounds) some of which were altered by several thousand percent in RA and RC. Ferulic acid levels increased 3033–9777%, aminooxononanoic acid increased 1141–1803% and 2,3,5,4′tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-d-glucoside increased 40,272–48,008%. Compound activities were confirmed using commercially obtained standards. In conclusion, rol gene transformation significantly alters the metabolome of L.sativa and enhances its antidiabetic properties. There is considerable potential to exploit rol genes to modulate secondary metabolite production for the development of novel functional foods. This investigation serves as a new paradigm whereby genetic manipulation, metabolomic analysis and bioactivity techniques can be combined to enable the discovery of novel natural bioactives and determine the functional significance of plant metabolites.

Poultry biogas slurry can partially substitute for mineral fertilizers in hydroponic lettuce production

Poultry biogas slurry, a by-product of the biogas production process, is rich in nutrients. However, improper handling increases the potential for serious environmental contamination and resource waste. The preparation of nutrient solutions for hydroponic lettuce production requires large amounts of mineral fertilizers, which provides an opportunity for poultry biogas slurry to enter the crop nutrient cycle. To assess the feasibility of the application of poultry biogas slurry, we used different proportions of biogas slurry and mineral fertilizers in a hydroponics experiment with lettuce. Four treatments were established: HS (half-strength Hoagland solution), BS (2.6% biogas slurry), BS + HS (1.3% biogas slurry + quarter-strength Hoagland solution), and BS + MF (2.6% biogas slurry + mineral fertilizers). The addition of poultry biogas slurry (BS + HS) did not have an adverse effect on lettuce growth, significantly increased the soluble sugar concentration, reduced the nitrate concentration, and the concentrations of heavy metals were still within the safety standards. In addition, the application of poultry biogas slurry could effectively reduce the production costs, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions of hydroponically grown lettuce. Based on our study, poultry biogas slurry could replace 50% of the mineral fertilizer used in hydroponic lettuce production. The key is to control the electrical conductivity and replenish the nutrients that are lacking in the biogas slurry, especially magnesium.

Effect of acaricidal components isolated from lettuce (Lactuca sativa) on carmine spider mite (Tetranychus cinnabarinus Boisd.)

This study aimed to evaluate the acaricidal activity of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) extracts against carmine spider mites (Tetranychus cinnabarinus Boisd.) and isolate the acaricidal components. Acaricidal activities of lettuce extracts isolated from different parts (the leaf, root and seed) using various solvents (petroleum ether, acetone and methanol) were evaluated with slide-dip bioassay and relatively high median lethal concentration (LC50) values were detected. Acetone extracts of lettuce leaves harvested in July and September were fractionated and isolated with silica gel and thin-layer chromatography. Consequently, acetone extracts of lettuce leaves harvested in July exhibited higher acaricidal activity than those harvested in September, with an LC50 value of 0.268 mg ml-1 at 72 h post-treatment. A total of 27 fractions were obtained from the acetone extract of lettuce leaves harvested in July, and mite mortalities with the 11th and 12th fractions were higher than those with the other 25 fractions (LC50: 0.751 and 1.258 mg ml-1 at 48 h post-treatment, respectively). Subsequently, active acaricidal components of the 11th fraction were identified by infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Five components were isolated from the 11th fraction, with components 11-a and 11-b showing relatively high acaricidal activities (LC50: 0.288 and 0.114 mg ml-1 at 48 h post-treatment, respectively). Component 11-a was identified as β-sitosterol. In conclusion, acetone extracts of lettuce leaves harvested in July might be used as a novel phytogenic acaricide to control mites.

Beneficial Phytochemicals with Anti-Tumor Potential Revealed through Metabolic Profiling of New Red Pigmented Lettuces (Lactuca sativa L.)

The present study aimed to compare polyphenols among red lettuce cultivars and identify suitable cultivars for the development and utilization of healthy vegetables. Polyphenols, mineral elements, and antioxidant activity were analyzed in the leaves of six red pigmented lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) cultivars; thereafter, we assessed the anti-tumor effects of cultivar B-2, which displayed the highest antioxidant activity. Quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometry analysis revealed four classes of polyphenols in these cultivars. The composition and contents of these metabolites varied significantly among cultivars and primarily depended on leaf color. The B-2 cultivar had the highest antioxidant potential than others because it contained the highest levels of polyphenols, especially anthocyanin, flavone, and phenolic acid; furthermore, this cultivar displayed anti-tumor effects against the human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549, human hepatoma cell line Bel7402, human cancer colorectal adenoma cell line HCT-8, and HT-29 human colon cancer cell line. Hence, the new red-leaf lettuce cultivar B-2 has a distinct metabolite profile, with high potential for development and utilization of natural phytochemical and mineral resources in lettuces and can be used as a nutrient-dense food product.

Effect of glycine nitrogen on lettuce growth under soilless culture: a metabolomics approach to identify the main changes occurred in plant primary and secondary metabolism

BACKGROUND

Lettuce is a significant source of antioxidants and bioactive compounds. Nitrate is a cardinal fertilizer in horticulture and influences vegetable yield and quality; however, the negative effects of nitrate on the biosynthesis of flavonoids require further study. It is expected that using fertilizers containing organic nitrogen (N) could promote the synthesis of health-promoting compounds.

RESULTS

Lettuces were hydroponically cultured in media containing 9 mmol L-1 nitrate or 9 mmol L-1 glycine for 4 weeks. Primary and secondary metabolites were analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography/ion mobility spectrometry/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/IMS/QTOF-MS). Data analysis revealed that 29 metabolites were significantly altered between nitrate and glycine treatments. Metabolites were tentatively identified by comparison with online databases, literature and standards and using collision cross-section values. Significant differences in flavonoid biosynthesis, phenolic biosynthesis and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle response were observed between N sources. Compared with nitrate, glycine promoted accumulation of glycosylated flavonoids (quercetin 3-glucoside, quercetin 3-(6″-malonyl-glucoside), luteolin 7-glucuronide, luteolin 7-glucoside), ascorbic acid and amino acids (l-valine, l-leucine, l-glutamine, asparagine, l-serine, l-ornithine, 4-aminobutanoic acid, l-phenylalanine) but reduced phenolic acids (dihydroxybenzoic acid hexose isomers 1 and 2, chicoric acid, chicoric acid isomer 1) and TCA intermediates (fumaric, malic, citric and succinic acids).

CONCLUSION

The novel methodology applied in this study can be used to characterize metabolites in lettuce. Accumulation of glycosylated flavonoids, amino acids and ascorbic acid in response to glycine supply provides strong evidence supporting the idea that using amino acids as an N source alters the nutritional value of vegetable crops. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Health-Promoting Phytochemicals from 11 Mustard Cultivars at Baby Leaf and Mature Stages

Mustard is a Brassica vegetable that provides a number of phytonutrients. However, the phytonutrient profile of mustard has been relatively limited. We analyzed the glucosinolates and their hydrolysis products, carotenoids, total anthocyanin and phenolic contents, and antioxidant capacity of the leaves of 11 mustard cultivars grown in a greenhouse at the baby leaf and mature stages. An aliphatic glucosinolate sinigrin and its hydrolysis products allyl isothiocyanate and 1-cyano-2,3-epithiopropane were the major phytonutrients in the mustard leaves. Carotenoids β-carotene, lutein, violaxanthin, and neoxanthin were detected. We found phytonutrient concentration and their change with plant growth were cultivar-dependent. The %RDA value for vitamin A calculated using β-carotene content and retinol activity equivalents suggests that mustard cultivars used in this study can be a good source of vitamin A. Phenolic contents and antioxidant capacity also varied among cultivars and between physiological stages. Our results suggest that mustard leaves are rich in various phytochemicals and their composition depends on cultivar and the physiological stage. This is the first report on phytochemical composition in various mustard cultivars at different physiological stages.

Effects of Vegetables on Cardiovascular Diseases and Related Mechanisms

Epidemiological studies have shown that vegetable consumption is inversely related to the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, research has indicated that many vegetables like potatoes, soybeans, sesame, tomatoes, dioscorea, onions, celery, broccoli, lettuce and asparagus showed great potential in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases, and vitamins, essential elements, dietary fibers, botanic proteins and phytochemicals were bioactive components. The cardioprotective effects of vegetables might involve antioxidation; anti-inflammation; anti-platelet; regulating blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid profile; attenuating myocardial damage; and modulating relevant enzyme activities, gene expression, and signaling pathways as well as some other biomarkers associated to cardiovascular diseases. In addition, several vegetables and their bioactive components have been proven to protect against cardiovascular diseases in clinical trials. In this review, we analyze and summarize the effects of vegetables on cardiovascular diseases based on epidemiological studies, experimental research, and clinical trials, which are significant to the application of vegetables in prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Sleep-inducing effect of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) varieties on pentobarbital-induced sleep

The objective of this study was to investigate the sleep-inducing effect of lettuce varieties and the extracts derived from romaine lettuce on pentobarbital-induced sleep. Romaine lettuce had a higher lactucin content (red romaine: 361.50 µg/g of extract, green romaine: 1071.67 µg/g of extract) compared to the green and red lettuce varieties. The seed and leaf extracts derived from romaine lettuce induced an increase in the sleep duration at low and high doses respectively. The seed extract of romaine lettuce showed higher content of polyphenols, including caftaric acid, chlorogenic acid, and chicoric acid, compared to the leaf extract. The IC₅₀ value of the leaf extract for its DPPH radical-scavenging was significantly less (0.11 mg/mL) than that of the seed extract (0.21 mg/mL) (p < 0.05). Romaine lettuce is an interesting and valuable source of sleep potentiating material and contains antioxidant phenolics that protect from the oxidant stress caused by sleep disturbance.

Elucidating the genetic basis of antioxidant status in lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

A diet rich in phytonutrients from fruit and vegetables has been acknowledged to afford protection against a range of human diseases, but many of the most popular vegetables are low in phytonutrients. Wild relatives of crops may contain allelic variation for genes determining the concentrations of these beneficial phytonutrients, and therefore understanding the genetic basis of this variation is important for breeding efforts to enhance nutritional quality. In this study, lettuce recombinant inbred lines, generated from a cross between wild and cultivated lettuce (Lactuca serriola and Lactuca sativa, respectively), were analysed for antioxidant (AO) potential and important phytonutrients including carotenoids, chlorophyll and phenolic compounds. When grown in two environments, 96 quantitative trait loci (QTL) were identified for these nutritional traits: 4 for AO potential, 2 for carotenoid content, 3 for total chlorophyll content and 87 for individual phenolic compounds (two per compound on average). Most often, the L. serriola alleles conferred an increase in total AOs and metabolites. Candidate genes underlying these QTL were identified by BLASTn searches; in several cases, these had functions suggesting involvement in phytonutrient biosynthetic pathways. Analysis of a QTL on linkage group 3, which accounted for >30% of the variation in AO potential, revealed several candidate genes encoding multiple MYB transcription factors which regulate flavonoid biosynthesis and flavanone 3-hydroxylase, an enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol, which are known to have powerful AO activity. Follow-up quantitative RT-PCR of these candidates revealed that 5 out of 10 genes investigated were significantly differentially expressed between the wild and cultivated parents, providing further evidence of their potential involvement in determining the contrasting phenotypes. These results offer exciting opportunities to improve the nutritional content and health benefits of lettuce through marker-assisted breeding.

Evaluation of analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant and anti-coagulant properties of Lactuca sativa (CV. Grand Rapids) plant tissues and cell suspension in rats

BACKGROUND

Lactuca sativa (lettuce) has been traditionally used for relieving pain, inflammation, stomach problems including indigestion and lack of appetite. Moreover, the therapeutic significance of L. sativa includes its anticonvulsant, sedative-hypnotic and antioxidant properties.

METHODS

In the present study, the MC (methanol and chloroform; 1:1) and aqueous extracts of seed and leaf along with cell suspension exudate were prepared. These extracts were explored for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant and anticoagulant effects by hot plate analgesic assay; carrageenan induced hind paw edema test, forced swimming test and capillary method for blood clotting respectively in a rat model. The results were analyzed using one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Turkey multiple comparison test.

RESULTS

Interestingly, the extracts and the cell suspension exudate showed dual inhibition by reducing pain and inflammation. The results indicated that the aqueous extracts of leaf exhibited highest analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities followed by leaf MC, cell suspension exudate, seed aqueous and seed MC extracts. The current findings show that aqueous and MC extracts of seed have the least immobility time in the forced swimming test, which could act as an anti-depressant on the central nervous system. The leaf extracts and cell suspension exudate also expressed moderate anti-depressant activities. In anticoagulant assay, the coagulation time of aspirin (positive control) and MC extract of leaf was comparable, suggesting strong anti-coagulant effect. Additionally, no abnormal behavior or lethality was observed in any animal tested.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, L. sativa can potentially act as a strong herbal drug due to its multiple pharmaceutical effects and is therefore of interest in drug discovery and development of formulations.

Genetic and biochemical evaluation of natural rubber from Eastern Washington prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola L.)

Alternative sources of natural rubber are of importance due to economic, biological, and political threats that could diminish supplies of this resource. Prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola L.) synthesizes long-chain natural rubber and was studied to determine underlying genetic and phenotypic characteristics of rubber biosynthesis. Genotypic and phenotypic analysis of an F2 segregating population using EST-SSR markers led to the discovery of genetic regions linked to natural rubber production. Interval mapping (IM) and multiple QTL mapping (MQM) identified several QTL in the mapping population that had significance based on LOD score thresholds. The discovered QTL and the corresponding local markers are genetic resources for understanding rubber biosynthesis in prickly lettuce and could be used in marker-assisted selection (MAS) breeding. Prickly lettuce is an excellent candidate for elucidating the rubber synthesis mechanism and has potential as a crop plant for rubber production.