Isolation and structural characterization of the major protein fraction from NorMan flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

Novel palm shortening substitute using a combination of rapeseed oil, linseed meal and beta-glucan

This study investigated the potential of a novel sustainable ingredient composed of rapeseed oil, linseed meal and beta-glucan (PALM-ALT) to mimic palm shortening functionality in cake. The combined functional properties of linseed meal and beta-glucan led to stable semi-solid emulsion-gels (20-31 μm oil droplet size, 105-115 Pa.s viscosity and 60-65 Pa yield stress). PALM-ALT contained 25 and 88% less total and saturated fat than palm shortening, whilst PALM-ALT cakes contained 26 and 75% less total and saturated fat than the palm-based control. PALM-ALT cakes matched the flavour profile of the palm-based control, while rapeseed oil cakes tasted more sour and less sweet than the control (p < 0.05). PALM-ALT cakes proved less hard and more cohesive than the control (p < 0.05), with 100% of the consumer panel preferring PALM-ALT formulations. This study demonstrated the unique potential of PALM-ALT as healthier, sustainable and competitive alternative to palm shortening.

Proteomic Profile of Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) Products as Influenced by Protein Concentration Method and Cultivar

The research is focused on the quantitative evaluation of the flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) proteome at the level of seed cake (SC), fine flour-sieved a fraction below 250 µm (FF)-and protein concentrate (PC). The evaluation was performed on three oilseed flax cultivars (Agriol, Raciol, and Libra) with different levels of α-linolenic acid content using LC-MS/MS (shotgun proteomics) analysis, which was finalized by database searching using the NCBI protein database for Linum usitatissimum and related species. A total of 2560 protein groups (PGs) were identified, and their relative abundance was calculated. A set of 33 quantitatively most significant PGs was selected for further characterization. The selected PGs were divided into four classes-seed storage proteins (11S globulins and conlinins), oleosins, defense- and stress-related proteins, and other major proteins (mainly including enzymes). Seed storage proteins were found to be the most abundant proteins. Specifically, 11S globulins accounted for 41-44% of SC proteins, 40-46% of FF proteins, and 72-84% of PC proteins, depending on the cultivar. Conlinins (2S albumins) were the most abundant in FF, ranging from 10 to 13% (depending on cultivar). The second most important class from the point of relative abundance was oleosins, which were represented in SC and FF in the range of 2.1-3.8%, but only 0.36-1.20% in PC. Surprisingly, a relatively high abundance of chitinase was found in flax products as a protein related to defence and stress reactions.

Quality assessment of flax advanced breeding lines varying in seed coat color and their potential use in the food and industrial applications

BACKGROUND

With the increasing consumer awareness of the strong relationship between food and health, flax became a promising functional food due to its bioactive nutraceutical composition. Intra-specific crosses of eight contrasting flax genotypes were performed previously, and within segregating F6 progeny families, we investigated a close-up composition of phytochemicals derived from whole seeds.

RESULTS

The considerable genetic variation among the flax F6 families suggested that intra-specific hybridization is essential in flax breeding to obtain and broaden genetic variability and largely affirmed the opportunity for selecting promising lines. Also, significant variations in the targeted metabolite contents and antioxidant properties were observed among brown and yellow-seeded families. Notably, brown-seeded families expressed the highest average values of saturated fatty acids, protein, fiber, tocopherol, phenolics, SDG, and SECO lignans. Yellow-seeded families represented the highest average content of unsaturated fatty acids and mucilage. The cultivation year significantly affects flaxseed's composition and functional properties, presumably due to temperature, humidity, and sunshine time differences. Interestingly, the seeds obtained in warmer conditions were more potent and had more chemical constituents. The favorable genetic correlations among all evaluated traits suggest the possibility of joint genetic selection for several nutritional and phytochemical characteristics in flax. The current study highlights the importance and utilization of 19 top families as their seeds and oil play imperative roles in the pharmaceuticals and food industries. The antioxidant capacity of the seeds showed that families 84B, 23B, 35Y, 95Y, 30B, 88B, and 78B serve as a natural source of dietary antioxidants beneficial to human health. To increase the oxidative stability of the flaxseed oil, the quality evaluation identified some families with low levels of linolenic acid.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings are essential to improving flaxseed's nutritional quality and therapeutic properties through a bulk breeding program.

Flaxseed oleosomes: Responsiveness to physicochemical stresses, tribological shear and storage

This study aimed to extract oleosomes (OLs) from flaxseeds and assess their response to environmental conditions during storage (pH and ionic strengths), shear and tribological stresses. Our hypothesis was that a shear-induced instability will enable OLs to exhibit favourable lubrication performance. During storage, OLs exhibited resistance to droplet aggregation for up to 6 weeks owing to the proteins (3.5-152.8 kDa molecular weights) stabilizing the OL droplets. However, presence of divalent (Ca2+) ions induced destabilization with marked increase in droplet size (p < 0.05). OLs demonstrated shear thinning behaviour, displaying an order of magnitude higher viscosity than flaxseed oil (FSO) at low shear rates (<10 s-1). Strikingly, OLs mirrored the frictional profile of FSO regardless of entrainment speeds, due to droplet coalescence, validating the hypothesis. Such kinetic stability with shear-induced coalescing feature of OLs hold strong potential for future plant-based food development, particularly in achieving desired mouthfeel characteristics.

The Improved Quality of Gluten-Free Bread Due to the Use of Flaxseed Oil Cake: A Comprehensive Study Evaluating Nutritional Value, Technological Properties, and Sensory Quality

The development of gluten-free bakery products, the quality of which is comparable to the quality of regular wheat-based products, remains a technological challenge. In this study, flaxseed oil cake (FOC), a by-product of flaxseed oil extraction and a source of nutritional and functional compounds, was used as an ingredient in the experimental bread formulation as partial replacement of starches (5%, 15%, and 30%). The gluten-free breads (GFBs) were evaluated for technological parameters, nutritional value, and sensory quality. Compared with the control, all FOC-enhanced GFBs were significantly (p < 0.05) richer in proteins, fat, and dietary fibre, with an increase that was proportional to the concentration of FOC in the formulation. At low-to-moderate levels (5% and 15%), FOC improved the specific volume, texture characteristics (reduced crumb hardness, gumminess, and chewiness), and appearance of GFBs, which allowed us to ameliorate its sensory features, but at 30% of FOC, the quality of the crumb texture decreased significantly (p < 0.005). Among the experimental GFBs, FOC15% exhibited improved technological characteristics and was rated by the sensory panel as the best in terms of overall quality. The results of the conducted research highlighted the benefits of incorporating FOC into GFB as a promising approach to developing a palatable, high-quality bakery product that may be a healthier option for individuals on a gluten-free diet, offering nutritional benefits. Nevertheless, it should be emphasised that the amount of FOC in GFB requires careful regulation.

Anti-Cancer Properties of Flaxseed Proteome

Flaxseed has been recognized as a valuable source of nutrients and bioactive compounds, including proteins that possess various health benefits. In recent years, studies have shown that flaxseed proteins, including albumins, globulins, glutelin, and prolamins, possess anti-cancer properties. These properties are attributed to their ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and interfere with cancer cell signaling pathways, ultimately leading to the inhibition of metastasis. Moreover, flaxseed proteins have been reported to modulate cancer cell mechanobiology, leading to changes in cell behavior and reduced cancer cell migration and invasion. This review provides an overview of the anti-cancer properties of flaxseed proteins, with a focus on their potential use in cancer treatment. Additionally, it highlights the need for further research to fully establish the potential of flaxseed proteins in cancer therapy.

Nutritional and Physicochemical Characteristics of Innovative High Energy and Protein Fruit- and Date-Based Bars

With the increasing global nutritional bar market, developing and formulating innovative high-energy and protein bars to compensate for nutrients using date fruits is beneficial for health-conscious individuals. The current research was undertaken to study the composition and physicochemical characteristics of innovative high-energy and high-protein bars using two combinations of Sukkari dates or fruit mixtures as a base. Fifty percent of either Sukkari date paste or dried fruit mixture (25% raisin, 12.5% fig, and 12.5% apricot) combined with other different ingredients was used to produce a date-based bar (DBB) or fruit-based bar (FBB). Proximate composition, sugar content, amino and fatty acid profiles, minerals and vitamins, phytochemicals, antioxidant activity, and visual color parameters of the DBB and the FBB were determined and statistically compared. Proximate analysis revealed higher moisture and fat content in the FBB than the DBB, while ash and crude fiber were higher in the DBB than the FBB. The protein content in the DBB and the FBB was not statistically different. Both prepared bars exuded around 376-378 kcal 100 g-1 fresh weight. Sugar profile analysis of the DBB and the FBB showed dependable changes based on date or fruit content. Fructose, glucose, and maltose contents were higher in the FBB than in the DBB, while sucrose content was higher in the DBB than in the FBB. The DBB showed significantly higher content in Ca, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn, and Se and significantly lower content in Mg, K, and Na than the FBB, with no variation in phosphorus content. The DBB and the FBB contained both essential (EAA) and non-essential (NEAA) amino acids. The DBB scored higher Lysine, Methionine, Histidine, Threonine, Phenylalanine, Isoleucine, and Cystine contents than the FBB, while the FBB scored only higher Leucine and Valine contents than the DBB. Seventeen saturated fatty acids were identified in the DBB and the FBB, with Palmitic acid (C16:0) as the predominant fatty acid. Oleic acid (C18:1n9c) was predominant among seven determined monounsaturated fatty acids. Linoleic fatty acid (C18:2n6c) was predominant among eight identified polyunsaturated fatty acids. In addition, α-Linolenic (C18:3n3) was detected in a considerable amount. However, in both the DBB and the FBB, the content and distribution of fatty acids were not remarkably changed. Regarding phytochemicals and bioactive compounds, the FBB was significantly higher in total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoids (TF), and total flavonols (TFL) contents and scavenging activity against DPPH and ABTS free radicals than the DBB. The DBB and the FBB showed positive a* values, indicating a reddish color. The b* values were 27.81 and 28.54 for the DBB and the FBB, respectively. The DBB is affected by the lower L* value and higher browning index (BI) to make its color brownish. Sensory evaluation data showed that panelists significantly preferred the DBB over the FBB. In conclusion, processing and comparing these bars indicated that using Sukkari dates is a nutrient-dense, convenient, economical, and better sugar alternative that helps combat the calorie content. Thus, scaling up the use of dates instead of fruits in producing high-energy and protein bars commercially is highly recommended.

Almond (Amygdalus communis L.) kernel protein: A review on the extraction, functional properties and nutritional value

Almond (Amygdalus communis L.) kernel, a source of nutrients in many traditional diets, is being used more frequently as a nutritious snack and component. It is well known that almond kernels are a protein-rich food. Compared to the amino acid profile recommended by FAO, almond kernel protein is an ideal protein with perfect balance of amino acids. It also has a variety of better functional properties such as solubility, emulsifying ability, oil absorption capacity and foaming ability. pH and ion strength have significant influences on these functional properties. Furthermore, almond kernel protein is easily digested and absorbed by the human body. So almond kernel protein can be used as a high-quality protein resource. This review describes the techniques for extracting almond kernel protein, as well as its functional properties, nutritional worth, and applications. The purpose of this review is to provide ideas for the effective use of almond kernel protein and the creation of related products.

Date Palm Fruit (Phoenix dactylifera) and Its Promising Potential in Developing Functional Energy Bars: Review of Chemical, Nutritional, Functional, and Sensory Attributes

Snack bars, known as energy bars, are widely consumed worldwide as highly nutritive on-the-go products. Due to the date fruit's significant nutritional and functional characteristics, it can be an exceptional choice for developing snack bars. Dates contain a wide range of macro- and micronutrients known for their strong bioactive properties. The functional properties of date fruit have been demonstrated in the literature and include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antihypertensive, and antimicrobial activities. This review summarizes the available studies investigating the potential application of dates for developing nutritive and functional snack bars. Date paste was used as a main ingredient at 55-90% concentrations. In addition, protein sources were used to provide protein-rich snack bars, as date fruit is considered high in carbohydrates and low in protein. Skim milk powder was the most common and favorable protein source, delivering significant amounts of protein with limited negative effects on sensory attributes. Incorporating other ingredients, such as cereals or legumes, was also explored; adding such dry ingredients can promote positive nutritional effects along with improving sensory attributes, mainly in terms of the bars' textures. Dry ingredients can significantly lower moisture content, reducing the bars' fracturability to acceptable ranges. Reduced moisture content can also significantly enhance the shelf-life stability, as observed by limited microbial growth. Furthermore, the incorporation of bioactive or functional ingredients such as fruit peels, plant seeds, or plant leaf extracts was also reported; such ingredients promoted significant enhancements in the contents of phenolics or flavonoids, for instance, leading to an increase in the bars' antioxidant potential. Though dates are rich in such bioactive components, incorporating additional bioactive ingredients can boost the dates' functional properties. In conclusion, this review shows the high potential of the application of dates for developing nutritious and functional snack bars. Taking this into account, the snack bar market has grown remarkably over the past decade; thus, providing well-balanced, nutritious, and functional date-based bars in markets worldwide is expected to show positive consumer acceptance.

Co-Extraction of Flaxseed Protein and Polysaccharide with a High Emulsifying and Foaming Property: Enrichment through the Sequence Extraction Approach

A new focus with respect to the extraction of plant protein is that ingredient enrichment should target functionality instead of pursuing purity. Herein, the sequence aqueous extraction method was used to co-enrich five protein-polysaccharide natural fractions from flaxseed meal, and their composition, structure, and functional properties were investigated. The total recovery rate of flaxseed protein obtained by the sequence extraction approach was more than 80%, which was far higher than the existing reports. The defatted flaxseed meal was soaked by deionized water to obtain fraction 1 (supernatant), and the residue was further treated to get fraction 2 (supernatant) and 3 (precipitate) through weak alkali solubilization. Part of the fraction 2 was taken out, followed by adjusting its pH to 4.2. After centrifuging, the albumin-rich supernatant and precipitate with protein content of 73.05% were gained and labeled as fraction 4 and fraction 5. The solubility of fraction 2 and 4 exceeded 90%, and the foaming ability and stability of fraction 5 were 12.76 times and 9.89 times higher than commercial flaxseed protein, respectively. The emulsifying properties of fractions 1, 2, and 5 were all greater than that of commercial sodium caseinate, implying that these fractions could be utilized as high-efficiency emulsifiers. Cryo-SEM results showed that polysaccharides in fractions were beneficial to the formation of network structure and induced the formation of tighter and smoother interfacial layers, which could prevent emulsion flocculation, disproportionation, and coalescence. This study provides a reference to promote the high-value utilization of flaxseed meals.

pH-shifting alters textural, thermal, and microstructural properties of mung bean starch-flaxseed protein composite gels

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of pH-shifting on the textural and microstructural properties of mung bean starch (MBS)-flaxseed protein (FP) composite gels. Results showed that different pH-shifting treatments caused changes in hydrogen bond interactions and secondary structures in composite gels, leading to the formation of loose or compact gel networks. The pH 2-shifting modified protein and starch molecules with shorter chains tended to form smaller intermolecular aggregates, resulting in the formation of a looser gel network. For pH 12-shifting treatment, conformational change of FP caused the unfolding of protein and the exposure of more hydrophobic groups, which enhanced the hydrogen bond and hydrophobic interactions between polymers, contributing to the formation of a compact gel network. Furthermore, pH 12-shifting improved the water-holding capacity (WHC), storage modulus, and strength of gels, while pH 2-treated gels exhibited lower WHC, hardness, and gumminess due to the degradation of MBS and denaturation of FP caused by extreme acid condition. These findings suggest that pH-shifting can alter the gel properties of bi-polymeric starch-protein composite systems by affecting the secondary structures of proteins and the hydrogen bonding between the polymers, and provide a promising way for a wide application of FP in soft gel-type food production.

Flaxseed Peptides and Cyclolinopeptides: A Critical Review on Proteomic Approaches, Biological Activity, and Future Perspectives

Linusorbs (LOs) and peptides from flaxseed protein have documented biological activity, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition, antioxidant, anticancer, and immunosuppressive activities, but their mechanism and structure-related bioactivity have not been summarized previously. Therefore, this study reviews the structure, composition, bioavailability, and health benefits of flaxseed peptides and LOs as well as peptide generation and LO modification. However, these peptides and LOs are long linear and cyclic structures, which affect the absorption and bioavailability of these substances in living beings and, thus, impair their overall efficiency and pharmacological effectiveness. Therefore, the development of novel strategies for optimizing the bioavailability of these peptide compounds is critical to ensure their successful application and delivery to the target sites via specially designed methods that will significantly improve their in vivo concentration and also investigate the structure-related activity of distinct amino acid and functional groups in physiological activity. Additionally, these native peptides and their analogues can be used as scaffolds for the production of antibodies.

Structural Characterization and Functional Properties of Flaxseed Hydrocolloids and Their Application

Flaxseed is an excellent source of valuable nutrients and is also considered a functional food. There are two types of hydrocolloids in flaxseed: flaxseed gum and proteins. Flaxseed gum exhibits emulsifying and foaming activities or can be used as a thickening and gelling agent. Due to its form of soluble fiber, flaxseed gum is related to many health benefits. Flaxseed proteins have various functional properties based on their physicochemical properties. While albumins possess the emulsion-forming ability, globulins better serve as foaming agents. Flaxseed proteins may also serve as a source of functional peptides with interesting biological and health-related activities. Functional properties and health-related benefits predetermine the application of these hydrocolloids, mainly in the food industry or medicine. Although these properties of flaxseed hydrocolloids have been recently and extensively studied, they are still not widely used on the industrial scale compared to other popular plant gums and proteins. The aim of this review was to present, discuss and highlight the recent discoveries in the structural characteristics and functional and biological properties of these versatile hydrocolloids with respect to factors affecting their characteristics and offer new insights into their potential applications as comparable alternatives to the other natural hydrocolloids or as the sources of novel functional products.

Novel Gluten-Free Bread with an Extract from Flaxseed By-Product: The Relationship between Water Replacement Level and Nutritional Value, Antioxidant Properties, and Sensory Quality

The food industry generates a great amount of food waste and by-products, which in many cases are not fully valorized. Press cakes, deriving from oilseeds extraction, represent interesting co-products due to their nutritional value, high biopolymers content, and the presence of bioactive phytochemicals. Gluten-free breads (GFBs) are products that have disadvantages such as unsatisfactory texture, low nutritional value, and short shelf life, so natural additives containing proteins and hydrocolloids are in demand to increase GFBs value. In this study, extract from flaxseed by-product (FOCE-Flaxseed Oil Cake Extract) was used to replace water (25-100%) in GFBs formulations and their nutritional value, antioxidant properties, and sensory features were investigated. The results showed that GFBs with FOCE had an elevated nutritional and nutraceutical profile (up to 60% more proteins, significantly increased K, Mg, and P levels). Moreover, the addition of FOCE improved the technological parameters (increased specific volume, number of cells and height/width ratio, reduced density, average size, and perimeter of cells), antioxidant potential, and overall sensory quality of GFBs. This study showed an encouraging way of using a by-product that, due to its high content of proteins, polysaccharides, minerals, and antioxidants, can add value to GFBs.

A comprehensive review on recent novel food and industrial applications of flaxseed: 2014 onwards

Flaxseed or linseed is an oilseed obtained from a plant, known as the flax (Linum usitatissimum). It is a valuable source of various bioactive components such as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, lignans, dietary fibres and phytochemicals. The in-vivo, in-vitro studies and research on human subjects and in animal models, conducted throughout the globe, on health benefits associated with the consumption of various forms of flaxseed are discussed in this review. It provides an insight into recent developments and potential applications of flaxseeds in the form of whole seeds, meals, flour or oil in an array of food and feed products and non-food industrial applications. The details about novel health benefits associated with flaxseeds and information related to commercially available flaxseed-based i.e. enriched products are also the salient feature of the review. Here, we have provided the state of the art of most recent comprehensive information post the first detailed review on flaxseed as a modern food released in 2014.

A comprehensive review on recent novel food and industrial applications of flaxseed: 2014 onwards

Flaxseed or linseed is an oilseed obtained from a plant, known as the flax (Linum usitatissimum). It is a valuable source of various bioactive components such as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, lignans, dietary fibres and phytochemicals. The in-vivo, in-vitro studies and research on human subjects and in animal models, conducted throughout the globe, on health benefits associated with the consumption of various forms of flaxseed are discussed in this review. It provides an insight into recent developments and potential applications of flaxseeds in the form of whole seeds, meals, flour or oil in an array of food and feed products and non-food industrial applications. The details about novel health benefits associated with flaxseeds and information related to commercially available flaxseed-based i.e. enriched products are also the salient feature of the review. Here, we have provided the state of the art of most recent comprehensive information post the first detailed review on flaxseed as a modern food released in 2014.

The Application of Spray-Dried and Reconstituted Flaxseed Oil Cake Extract as Encapsulating Material and Carrier for Probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG

Agro-industrial by-products are promising source of biopolymers, including proteins and polysaccharides. This study was designed to evaluate the flaxseed oil cake extract (FOCE) as natural encapsulating material and carrier for probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnous GG (LGG). The powders were obtained using three spray drying inlet temperatures (110 °C, 140 °C, 170 °C), and reconstituted. The influence of temperature on water activity, morphology, chemical composition, flowability and cohesiveness of the powders was estimated. For all variants, the survival of bacteria during spray drying, and simulated passage through the gastrointestinal tract was evaluated. The preservation of LGG probiotic features such as cholesterol reduction, hydrophobicity and adhesion to mucin were examined. Results revealed that all physicochemical and functional characteristics of the powders were affected by the inlet temperature. This study demonstrated that FOCE is an appropriate matrix for spray drying (due to flaxseed proteins and polysaccharides) providing high survivability of bacteria (89.41-96.32%), that passed meaningfully through the simulated gastrointestinal tract (4.39-5.97 log reduction), largely maintaining their probiotic properties, being a promising environmentally-friendly carrier for probiotic LGG.

A Structured Approach to Recover Valuable Compounds from Agri-food Side Streams

Food side streams contain useful compounds such as proteins, sugars, polyphenols, and amino acids that might get discarded during processing. The concentration of these components may be low (e.g., fruit side streams are mainly composed by water, around 90%, while polyphenol content in rapeseed meal is less than 3% dry weight) and therefore effective separation techniques should be evaluated. The aim of this review is to identify the different process steps (like pretreatment, volume reduction, phase change, solid removal, purification, and formulation) required to recover high-value products from agri-food residues. It reviews different plant-based byproducts as sources (cereal bran, fruit pomace, oilseed meals, fruit wastewater) of valuable compounds and discusses the relevant technologies required for processing (such as extraction, adsorption, crystallization, drying, among others). A structured approach to design recovery processes presented focused on high purity products. This work demonstrates that multiple high-value products can be recovered from a single agri-food side stream depending on the processing steps and the origin source (strong and soft structures and wastewater).

Bioaccessibility and bioavailability of calcium in sprouted brown and golden flaxseed

BACKGROUND

Germination promotes changes in the composition of seeds by providing potential nutritional and health benefits compared with unsprouted seeds. This study investigated the influence of germination on the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of calcium in brown flaxseed (BF) and golden flaxseed (GF).

RESULTS

Germination did not influence the calcium levels of BF or GF, but the sprouted GF (SGF, 265.6 ± 12.9 mg) presented higher levels of calcium than the sprouted BF (SBF, 211.6 ± 3.20 mg). Tannin levels were similar among the groups (GF = 79.97 ± 3.49 mg; SGF = 78.81 ± 0.77 mg; BF = 81.82 ± 2.61 mg; SBF = 79.24 ± 4.58 mg), whereas phytate and oxalate levels decreased after germination. Germination reduced the phytate:calcium and oxalate:calcium molar ratios. In the in vitro study, germination increased calcium bioaccessibility (GF = 35.60 mg versus SGF = 41.45 mg; BF = 31.01 mg versus SBF = 38.84 mg). In the in vivo study, all groups present similar levels of urinary calcium (GF = 1.04 mg versus SGF = 2.06 mg; BF = 1.68 mg versus SBF = 1.35 mg) and fecal calcium (GF = 5.06 mg versus SGF = 6.14 mg; BF = 6.47 mg versus SBF = 8.40 mg). The calcium balance/day of the SBF group (37.97 mg) was smaller than the control group (47.22 mg). The germination maintained the plasma levels of calcium, phosphorus, creatinine, and alkaline phosphatase similar among the groups. No changes were observed in morphology and calcium levels of animal femurs.

CONCLUSION

The germination reduced the antinutritional factor in both flaxseed varieties. Although there was an improvement in the in vitro bioaccessibility of calcium, the germination did not increase calcium absorption and balance in the animals, which may be due to the interaction with other compounds in the organism. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Optimization of flaxseed milk fermentation for the production of functional peptides and estimation of their bioactivities

Bioactive peptides are protein fragments which have a positive impact on the functions and conditions of living organisms. Apart from other animal and plant sources flaxseed is an excellent source of bioactive peptides. In recent years, fermentation has been explored as effective way for bioactive peptides generation. Hence, the present study has been carried out to evaluate an indigenous Lactobacillus plantarum strain NCDC 374 for fermentation and peptides generation in flaxseed milk. Optimization of fermentation condition to obtain maximum functional properties (Proteolytic activity, Antioxidant activity and ACE inhibition %) was investigated using response surface methodology. Optimal condition to produce the functional peptides were found to be 4.20% inoculum size with 126 hours of fermentation time. The fermented milk resulted in 67.38% inhibition in DPPH, 41.35% inhibition in ACE and 30.38 micro gram leucine/ml proteolytic activity. Molecular weight cut off membrane (Viva spin) were used to fractionate the peptides. 10 kDa peptides showed optimal results for % DPPH inhibition, ACE inhibition, Antimicrobial activity and DPP-IV inhibition as compared to 5 kDa.

Effects of atmospheric pressure plasma jet on the physicochemical, functional, and antioxidant properties of flaxseed protein

The aim of this study was to explore the effect of atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) on the physicochemical, functional, and antioxidant properties of flaxseed protein following APPJ treatment (0 to 240 s). The results showed that the pH value continuously dropped with the minimum value of 3.45 ± 0.15 after 240 s of APPJ treatment (-61.7%, P < 0.05). The relative protein solubility significantly declined after 15 s of APPJ treatment (-43.1%, P < 0.05), which was accompanied by the evident increase in mean particle size of flaxseed protein in aqueous solution (+157%, P < 0.05). Moreover, the surface hydrophobicity and contents of disulfide bonds gradually raised when the APPJ exposure time extended from 30 to 240 s. Notably, the foaming, emulsifying, and in vitro antioxidant properties of flaxseed protein were significantly improved following short time of APPJ treatment (5 to 15 s), which was paralleled with the changes of spatial conformation, mild protein oxidation, as well as the release of phenolic acids and flavonoids from naturally occurring protein-phenolic complex. Our findings elucidated that APPJ may be considered as an effective strategy to improve the functionality and antioxidant activities of flaxseed protein. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: We had evaluated the effect of APPJ treatment on the physicochemical, functional, and antioxidant properties of flaxseed protein, which was conducive to tailor flaxseed protein with the optimal techno-functionality and antioxidant activities as a potential nano-delivery vehicle.

Valorization of Flaxseed Oil Cake Residual from Cold-Press Oil Production as a Material for Preparation of Spray-Dried Functional Powders for Food Applications as Emulsion Stabilizers

Flaxseed oil cake extract (residual from cold-press oil production and rich in proteins and polysaccharides) was evaluated as a potential substrate for the preparation of spray-dried powders with emulsifying activity. Three variants of powders were obtained using different spray-drying process inlet temperatures: 160 °C, 180 °C, and 200 °C. The influence of temperature on physicochemical features (water holding capacity, oil binding capacity, water activity, solubility, color, chemical composition, antioxidant activity, and surface morphology) of the powders was estimated. Additionally, the emulsifying activity of the powders and the stability of oil-in-water emulsions prepared with their various content (0.5%, 1%, and 3%) were determined. Results showed that inlet temperature had significant influence on all physicochemical and functional properties of the powders. Increased inlet temperature decreased solubility and antioxidant activity but increased water-holding capacity, oil-binding capacity, and emulsifying activity. The emulsions prepared with the powder obtained at 200 °C showed the highest stability. SEM images showed the production of relatively spherical particles which were folded or wrinkled with a lot of dentures. This study could open a promising pathway for producing natural and plant-based spray-dried powders for food applications as emulsion stabilizers.

Linseed Essential Oil - Source of Lipids as Active Ingredients for Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals

Linseed - also known as flaxseed - is known for its beneficial effects on animal health attributed to its composition. Linseed comprises linoleic and α-linolenic fatty acids, various dietary fibers and lignans, which are beneficial to health because they reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, as well as cancer, decreasing the levels of cholesterol and relaxing the smooth muscle cells in arteries increasing the blood flow. Essential fatty acids from flax participate in several metabolic processes of the cell, not only as structuring components of the cell membrane but also as storage lipids. Flax, being considered a functional food, can be consumed in a variety of ways, including seeds, oil or flour, contributing to basic nutrition. Several formulations containing flax are available on the market in the form of e.g. capsules and microencapsulated powders having potential as nutraceuticals. This paper revises the different lipid classes found in flaxseeds and their genomics. It also discusses the beneficial effects of flax and flaxseed oil and their biological advantages as ingredients in pharmaceuticals and in nutraceuticals products.

Linseed Components Are More Effective Than Whole Linseed in Reversing Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rats

Linseed is a dietary source of plant-based ω–3 fatty acids along with fiber as well as lignans including secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG). We investigated the reversal of signs of metabolic syndrome following addition of whole linseed (5%), defatted linseed (3%), or SDG (0.03%) to either a high-carbohydrate, high-fat or corn starch diet for rats for the final eight weeks of a 16–week protocol. All interventions reduced plasma insulin, systolic blood pressure, inflammatory cell infiltration in heart, ventricular collagen deposition, and diastolic stiffness but had no effect on plasma total cholesterol, nonesterified fatty acids, or triglycerides. Whole linseed did not change the body weight or abdominal fat in obese rats while SDG and defatted linseed decreased abdominal fat and defatted linseed increased lean mass. Defatted linseed and SDG, but not whole linseed, improved heart and liver structure, decreased fat vacuoles in liver, and decreased plasma leptin concentrations. These results show that the individual components of linseed produce greater potential therapeutic responses in rats with metabolic syndrome than whole linseed. We suggest that the reduced responses indicate reduced oral bioavailability of the whole seeds compared to the components.

Molecular changes of phenolic-protein interactions in isolated proteins from flaxseed and soybean using Native-PAGE, SDS-PAGE, RP-HPLC, and ESI-MS analysis

The effects of protein-phenolic interactions on the molecular characteristics of soybean and flaxseed proteins were investigated. Proteins were isolated from soybean and flaxseed using isoelectric precipitation, followed by extraction of free and bound phenolics. The effects of elimination of the phenolic compounds on molecular characteristics of the protein isolates were studied using reversed phase-high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC), Native and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and electron spray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). The Native-PAGE fractions from isolated proteins from full-fat flaxseed and soybean revealed that protein migration was affected by removal of bound phenolics. SDS-PAGE from full-fat and defatted protein isolates of flaxseed and soybean revealed that the removal of bound phenolics affected the molecular characteristics of protein subunits. Soybean protein isolates had protein-phenolic interactions through acidic and basic subunits. RP-HPLC and ESI-MS showed that the removal of bound and free phenolics had only minor effects on the molecular characteristics of isolated proteins from defatted and full-fat soybean. With respect to isolated proteins from flaxseed, the removal of bound phenolics showed little effect on the electrophoretic behavior of the proteins or the protein subunits. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Phenolic-protein and phenolic-lipid-protein interactions may affect the nutritional, physicochemical, and functional properties of isolated proteins from food in flaxseed and soybean.

Identification of angiotensin converting enzyme and dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibitory peptides derived from oilseed proteins using two integrated bioinformatic approaches

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) play critical roles in the development of hypertension and type 2 diabetes, respectively. Inhibiting ACE and DPP-IV activity using peptides has become part of new therapeutic strategies for supporting medicinal treatment of both diseases. In this study, oilseed proteins, including soybean, flaxseed, rapeseed, sunflower and sesame are evaluated for the possibility of generating ACE and DPP-IV inhibitory peptides using different integrated bioinformatic approaches (UniProt knowledgebase, ProtParam, BLAST, BIOPEP, PeptideRanker, Pepsite2 and ToxinPred), and three bovine proteins (β-lactoglobulin, β-casein and κ-casein) as comparisons. Compared with bovine proteins, the potency indices of ACE and DPP-IV inhibitory peptides, calculated using the BIOPEP database, suggest that oilseed proteins may be considered as good precursors of ACE inhibitory peptides but generate a relative lower yield of DPP-IV inhibitory peptides following subtilisin, pepsin (pH = 1.3) or pepsin (pH > 2) hydrolysis. Average scores aligned using PeptideRanker confirmed oilseed proteins as significant potential sources of bioactive peptides: over 105 peptides scored over 0.8. Pepsite2 predicted that these peptides would largely bind via Gln281, His353, Lys511, His513, Tyr520 and Tyr523 of ACE to inhibit the enzyme, while Trp629 would be the predominant binding site of peptides in reducing DPP-IV activity. All peptides were capable of inhibiting ACE and DPP-IV whilst 65 of these 105 peptides are not currently recorded in BIOPEP database. In conclusion, our in silico study demonstrates that oilseed proteins could be considered as good precursors of ACE and DPP-IV inhibitory peptides as well as so far unexplored peptides that potentially have roles in ACE and DPP-IV inhibition and beyond.

Ethnobotany of Anti-hypertensive Plants Used in Northern Pakistan

Hypertension is one of the most important factors responsible for cardiovascular ailments worldwide. It has been observed that herbal products and alternative herbal therapies played a significant role in decreasing hypertension. The aim of the current study is to provide significant ethnopharmacological information, both qualitative and quantitative on medicinal plants related to hypertension from Northern Pakistan. The documented data were quantitatively analyzed for the first time in this area. A total of 250 participants were interviewed through semi-structured discussions and questionnaires. Quantitative indices including FC (Frequency citation), FIV (Family importance value), RFC (Relative frequency of citation) and DCI (Disease Consensus index) were calculated. A total of 192 plant species, belonging to 77 families were reported to be used in treatment of hypertension in Northern Pakistan. The most dominant life form reported was herbs (54%), with decoction (72 reports) and leaves (55.1%) were commonly utilized plant part. Highest FIV was recorded in Lamiaceae (327 FIV). RFC ranged from 0.08 to 1.08% while DCI varied from 0.233 to 0.000. In this study original data was compared with thirty one previous national and international published papers from neighboring region to compare the medicinal uses and obtain some novel plant species. About 42% of the medicinal plant species were reported for the first time in treatment of hypertension in comparison to these 31 published papers. Different phytochemical activities of antihypertensive plants were also reported from literature. This research work documents the traditional knowledge of medicinal plants usage and provides baseline in designing clinical trials and pharmacological analysis for treatment of hypertension.

Pretreatment of flaxseed protein isolate by high hydrostatic pressure: Impacts on protein structure, enzymatic hydrolysis and final hydrolysate antioxidant capacities

The effect of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) on flaxseed protein structure and peptide profiles, obtained after protein hydrolysis, was investigated. Isolated flaxseed protein (1%, m/v) was subjected to HHP (600MPa, 5min or 20min at 20°C) prior to hydrolysis with trypsin only and trypsin-pronase. The results demonstrated that HHP treatment induced dissociation of flaxseed proteins and generated higher molecular weight aggregates as a function of processing duration. Fluorescence spectroscopy showed that HHP treatment, as well as processing duration, had an impact on flaxseed protein structure since exposition of hydrophobic amino acid tyrosine was modified. Except for some specific peptides, the concentrations of which were modified, similar peptide profiles were obtained after hydrolysis of pressure-treated proteins using trypsin. Finally, hydrolysates obtained using trypsin-pronase had a greater antioxidant capacity (ORAC) than control samples; these results confirmed that HHP enhanced the generation of antioxidant peptides.