Nutrients value and antioxidant content of indigenous vegetables from Southern Thailand

Exogenous methyl jasmonate treatment induced the transcriptional responses and accumulation of volatile terpenoids in Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC

Water dropwort is favored by consumers for its unique flavor and medicinal value. Terpenoids were identified as the main volatile compounds related to its flavor. In this study, water dropwort was treated with different concentrations of exogenous methyl jasmonate (MeJA). The contents of volatile terpenoids were determined under various MeJA treatments. The results indicated that 0.1 mM of MeJA most effectively promoted the biosynthesis of flavor-related terpenoids in water dropwort. Terpinolene accounted the highest proportion among terpene compounds in water dropwort. The contents of jasmonates in water dropwort were also increased after exogenous MeJA treatments. Transcriptome analysis indicated that DEGs involved in the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway were upregulated. The TPS family was identified from water dropwort, and the expression levels of Oj0473630, Oj0287510 and Oj0240400 genes in TPS-b subfamily were consistent with the changes of terpene contents under MeJA treatments. Oj0473630 was cloned from the water dropwort and designated as OjTPS3, which is predicted to be related to the biosynthesis of terpinolene in water dropwort. Subcellular localization indicated that OjTPS3 protein was localized in chloroplast. Protein purification and enzyme activity of OjTPS3 protein were conducted. The results showed that the purified OjTPS3 protein catalyzed the biosynthesis of terpinolene by using geranyl diphosphate (GPP) as substrate in vitro. This study will facilitate to further understand the molecular mechanism of terpenoid biosynthesis and provide a strategy to improve the flavor of water dropwort.

Assessment of Biological Activities, Acute and Sub-chronic Toxicity of Liang (Gnetum gnemon var. tenerum) Leaves Powder, a Natural Product

Gnetum gnemon var. tenerum (Gnetaceae) is a shrub plant native to South-East Asia. In Thailand, Liang leaves are commonly consumed in South of Thailand as vegetable. According to literature, they have an antihyperglycemic capacity because of their rich chlorophyll, fiber, and protein. However, there is need to assess the safety since natural food products are not completely devoid of toxicity. This study aimed to assess the biological activities as well as the acute and sub-chronic oral toxicity of Liang leaves powder (LLP). The evaluation of LLP for acute oral toxicity was performed at dose level 2000 mg/kg body weight in Wistar rats while the sub-chronic oral toxicity of LLP was performed at the effective dose (1.47 g/kg) for antihyperglycemic property according to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)-425. The results showed that LLP demonstrated anti-inflammatory activities. It also showed no clinical signs of toxic effects and mortality in rats throughout 90 d. Thus, LLP could be classified in GHS category 5 which are of relatively low acute toxicity and then the lethal dose, 50% (LD50) cut off at 5000 mg/kg body weight to infinity (∞). Administration of LLP to the experimental rats significantly increased (p < 0.05) the concentration of triglyceride and increased concentration of creatinine as a result of kidney malfunction was also noticed in the experimental rats. Hematological alteration was not noticed in the treated female rats, but red blood cell, hemoglobin and hematocrit concentrations significantly increased in the treated male rats. The study concludes that sub-chronic administration of 1.47 g/kg LLP is relatively safe.

Anacardium occidentale leaves extract and riboceine mitigate hyperglycemia through anti-oxidative effects and modulation of some selected genes associated with diabetes

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the leading causes of death globally and complications of DM have become a major health concern. Anacardium occidentale is a plant widely recognized for its hypoglycemic properties and traditionally used in developing nations as remedy for DM treatment. Riboceine is a supplement that enhances production of glutathione and known for its vital role in supporting cellular function. This study was designed to evaluate the antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of riboceine and ethanolic extract of A. occidentale leaves in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Method

Twenty-nine adult male Wistar rats were induced with DM intraperitoneally using a single dose of STZ (70 mg/kg). The STZ-induced rats were divided into groups and administered the same dose (100 mg/kg) of A. occidentale leaves extract and riboceine via gastric gavage at the dose (100 mg/kg) for seventeen days while metformin (40 mg/kg) was used as positive control. Fasting blood glucose and weight of the model rats were examined periodically. Activities of total protein, creatinine, urea, antioxidants (SOD, GSH and GPX), and level of serum insulin were determined. Expression of diabetes related genes including pancreas (Insulin, pdx-1, P16NK4A, and Mki-67), Liver (FAS, ACC, and GFAT) and KIM-1 genes were also determined.

Results

Data showed that treatment of STZ-induced diabetic rats with A. occidentale and riboceine at the same dose significantly (p < 0.05) ameliorated hyperglycemic effects by improving hepatic and renal functions and antioxidants, preventing hepatic fat accumulation by downregulation of ACC, FAS and GFAT expression, improving β-cell functions through up-regulation of pancreatic insulin, P16NK4A, Mki-67 and pdx-1 expression. Induction of diabetes upregulated mRNA expression of KIM-1, which was ameliorated after treatment of the rats with A. occidentale and riboceine.

Conclusion

The results obtained in this study demonstrate significant antidiabetic properties of ethanolic extract of A. occidentale and riboceine.

Oenanthe javanica Ethanolic Extract Alleviates Inflammation and Modifies Gut Microbiota in Mice with DSS-Induced Colitis

Oenanthe javanica, commonly known as water dropwort, has long been used to treat acute and chronic hepatitis, abdominal pain, alcohol hangovers, and inflammation in various traditional medicine systems in Asia. However, whether O. javanica has beneficial effects on colitis-induced intestinal damage remains elusive. This study tested the hypothesis that O. javanica has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. First, treatment of O. javanica ethanol extract (OJE) inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide-affected macrophages. Second, in mice with DSS-induced colitis, OJE administration reduced pathological damage to the colon while alleviating weight gain and decreasing colon length, including inflammation and mucosal necrosis. In addition, OJE significantly (p < 0.01) restricted the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and the secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators and increased the expression of Nrf2-phase 2 antioxidant enzymes. The results of 16S rRNA gene sequencing workflows for taxonomic assignment analysis confirmed that the diversity (richness and evenness) of fecal microbiota was markedly elevated in the OJE group. OJE administration reduced the abundance of Proteobacteria including Escherichia and increased the abundance of the genus Muribaculum. These results suggested that OJE exerts beneficial effects on inflammation and gut microbial composition in a mouse model of colitis.

Ethanolic Cashew Leaf Extract: Antimicrobial Activity, Mode of Action, and Retardation of Spoilage Bacteria in Refrigerated Nile Tilapia Slices

Phenolic compounds from cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) leaves were extracted using ethanol with the aid of ultrasonication. Three independent variables, including ultrasound amplitude, time, and ethanol concentration, were used for response surface methodology (RSM) along with the central composite design (CCD). Under the optimized condition (70% amplitude; 40 min; 80% ethanol), the extraction yield and total phenolic contents were 24.50% and 431.16 mg GAE/g dry extract, respectively. Cashew leaf extract (CLE) had the lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against Shewanella sp. than P. aeruginosa. The release of K+ and Mg2+ ions from damaged cell membranes with a coincidental decrease of TTC dehydrogenase activity were augmented when treated with CLE. In addition, scanning electron microscopic (SEM) image revealed deformations and perforation of cell walls of bacteria treated with CLE. The dominant compounds in CLE were amentoflavone, quercetin, and its glycosides. Based on microbial challenge test, the growth of P. aeruginosa and Shewanella sp. inoculated in tilapia slices were inhibited by CLE at 400 and 600 ppm within 15 days of refrigerated storage.

Biopreservation of Refrigerated Mackerel (Auxis thazard) Slices by Rice Starch-Based Coating Containing Polyphenol Extract from Glochidion wallichianum Leaf

Both microbial decomposition and oxidative deterioration contribute to the qualitative degradation of fresh or minimally preserved fish, which negatively impacts the shelf-life of fish, especially those with dark flesh like mackerel. It is becoming more typical to use edible coatings to preserve the freshness of fish products. Herein, the effects of a rice starch (RS) based coating incorporated with dried crude, aqueous Mon-pu (Glochidion wallichianum) leaf extract (MPE) at varying concentrations (0, 0.02, 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0% w/w) on the quality characteristics of mackerel (Auxis thazard) slices during storage at 4 °C were investigated. Uncoated slices had a shelf-life of 6 days, whereas samples coated with RS and 0.5% MPE extended the shelf-life to 9 days by keeping the overall microbiological quality below the permitted level of 6 log CFU/g. The changes in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS; <2 mg malondialdehyde equivalent/kg), propanal content, heme iron degradation, myoglobin redox instability, and surface discoloration (a* value and total color difference; ΔE) can all be delayed by this coating condition. Additionally, the RS-MPE coating can maintain the sensory quality of refrigerated mackerel slices and preserve the textural property (water holding capacity and hardness), as well as postpone the development of an off-odor as indicated by lowered contents of total volatile base-nitrogen (TVB-N; not exceeding the acceptable limit of 25 mg/100 g) and trimethylamine (TMA; not exceeding the acceptable limit of 10 mg/100 g). Therefore, a biopreservative coating made of RS and MPE, especially at 0.5%, can be employed to extend the shelf-life of refrigerated mackerel slices up to 9 days.

A Novel Antiviral Protein Derived from Oenanthe javanica: Type I Interferon-Dependent Antiviral Signaling and Its Pharmacological Potential

Pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins produced in plants play a crucial role in self-defense against microbial attacks. Previously, we have identified a novel PR-1-like protein (OPRP) from Oenanthe javanica and examined its pharmacologic relevance and cell signaling in mammalian cells. Purified full-length OPRP protein significantly increased toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-dependent expression levels of genes such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and CD80. We also found that small peptides (OPRP2 and OPRP3) designed from OPRP remarkably upregulated myxovirus resistance (Mx1), 2′-5′ oligoadenylate sythetase (OAS), and interferon (IFN) α/β genes in mouse splenocytes as well as human epithelial cells. Notably, OPRP protein distinctively activated STAT1 phosphorylation and ISGF-3γ. Interestingly, OPRP2 and OPRP3 were internalized to the cytoplasm and triggered dimerization of STAT1/STAT2, followed by upregulation of type I IFN-dependent antiviral cytokines. Moreover, OPRP1 successfully inhibited viral (Pseudo SARS-CoV-2) entry into host cells. Taken together, we conclude that OPRP and its small peptides (OPRP1 to 3) present a new therapeutic intervention for modulating innate immune activity through type I IFN-dependent antiviral signaling and a new therapeutic approach that drives an antiviral state in non-immune cells by producing antiviral cytokines.

Glochidion wallichianum Leaf Extract as a Natural Antioxidant in Sausage Model System

This study highlighted the role of an 80% ethanolic Mon-Pu (Glochidion wallichianum) leaf extract (MPE), a novel natural antioxidative ingredient, in controlling the oxidative stability and physicochemical properties of a cooked sausage model system (SMS). MPE had a total extractable phenolic content of 16 mg/100 g, with DPPH● scavenging activity, ABTS●+ scavenging activity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power of 2.3, 1.9, and 1.2 mmole Trolox equivalents (TE)/g, respectively. The effects of different concentrations of MPE (0.01−10%, w/w) formulated into SMS on lipid oxidation, protein oxidation, and discoloration were compared to synthetic butylated hydroxyl toluene (BHT; 0.003%, w/w) and a control (without antioxidant). The peroxide value (PV), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and protein carbonyl contents of SMS tended to increase with increasing MPE concentration (p < 0.05), indicating that high MPE excipient has a pro-oxidative effect. The lowest lipid oxidation (PV and TBARS) and protein carbonyl contents were observed when 0.01% MPE was used to treat SMS (p < 0.05), which was comparable or even greater than BHT-treated SMS. High concentrations (1−10%) of MPE incorporation led to increases in the discoloration of SMS (p < 0.05) with a negligible change in pH of SMS. The water exudate was reduced when MPE was incorporated into SMS compared to control (p < 0.05). Furthermore, MPE at 0.01% significantly reduced lipid oxidation in cooked EMS during refrigerated storage. According to the findings, a low amount of MPE, particularly at 0.01%, in a formulation could potentially maintain the oxidative stability and physicochemical qualities of cooked SMS that are comparable to or better than synthetic BHT.

Total Phenolics and Anthocyanins Contents and Antioxidant Activity in Four Different Aerial Parts of Leafy Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.)

Leafy sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) is an excellent source of nutritious greens and natural antioxidants, but reports on antioxidants content and activity at buds, leaves, petioles, and stems are scarce. Therefore, the total phenolics content (TPC), total anthocyanins content (TAC), and antioxidant activity (assessed by DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)) were investigated in four aerial parts of 11 leafy sweet potato varieties. The results showed that varieties with pure green aerial parts, independently of the part analyzed, had higher TPC, FRAP, and ABTS radical scavenging activities. The green-purple varieties had a significantly higher TAC, while variety GS-17-22 had the highest TAC in apical buds and leaves, and variety Ziyang in petioles and stems. Among all parts, apical buds presented the highest TPC and antioxidant capacity, followed by leaves, petioles, and stems, while the highest TAC level was detected in leaves. The TPC was positively correlated with ABTS radical scavenging activity and FRAP in all parts studied, whereas the TAC was negatively correlated with DPPH radical scavenging activity. Collectively, the apical buds and leaves of sweet potato had the higher levels of nutritional values. These results would provide reference values for further breeding of leafy sweet potatoes.

Indigenous Foods of India: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Nutritive Values, Antinutrient Content and Mineral Bioavailability of Traditional Foods Consumed by Indigenous Communities of India

India is endowed with several indigenous foods (IFs), that hold special cultural significance among local and ethnic caommunities, yet no attempts have been made till date to systematically compile their nutritive values. As per FAO's recent mandate on creation of “Global-Hub on Indigenous Food Systems,” IFs have received renewed global recognition for their potential to contribute to improved food security while enhancing biodiversity across the world. Hence, the useful properties of wild IFs require proper study and documentation in order to bridge the gap between scientific evidence generation and indigenous peoples' ancestral knowledge. For this purpose, we conducted a literature search in two scientific databases: PubMed and Google Scholar, between July 2020 and December 2021, to identify studies reporting nutritive values and/or antinutrient content of IFs (not included in Indian food composition database), consumed by Indian indigenous communities. A total of 52 Indian research articles were included, from which data was selected and extracted, to create a compendium on nutrient (n = 508) and antinutrient (n = 123) content of IFs, followed by computation of antinutrient-to-mineral molar ratios for 98 IFs to predict their mineral bioavailability. Maximum nutritive values were available for green leafy vegetables (n = 154), followed by other vegetables (n = 98), fruits (n = 66), cereals (n = 63), roots &amp; tubers (n = 51) and nuts and legumes (n = 36). Several IFs seen to have better nutritional content than conventional foods and were found to be rich (i.e., &gt;20% Indian recommended dietary allowances per reference food serve) in iron (54%), calcium (35%), protein (30%), vitamin C (27%), vitamin A (18%), zinc (14%) and folate (13%). Some IFs displayed high levels of antinutrients, however, anti-nutrient-to-mineral molar ratios were found to be low (for mainly leafy vegetables, other vegetables, and roots and tubers), thus indicating high mineral bioavailability. Hence, efforts are desirable to encourage the inclusion of these nutritionally superior IFs into the usual diets of indigenous communities. The IF database collated in our review can serve as a resource for researchers and policymakers to better understand the nutritional properties of region-specific IFs and promote them through contextual food-based interventions for improved dietary quality and nutrition outcomes in indigenous population of India.

Protein composition, chlorophyll, carotenoids, and cyanide content of cassava leaves (Manihot esculenta Crantz) as influenced by cultivar, plant age, and leaf position

The variation of proximate compositions, amino acids, carotenoids, chlorophyll, and total cyanide contents in cassava leaves was studied to identify the most suitable leaves for human consumption. The cassava leaves from 4 cultivars were analysed at 3 leaf positions as well as at 2 plant ages. The leaves of 'Rayong 5' cultivar from the middle position at 6 months after planting contained the highest crude protein, amino acids, carotenoids, and chlorophyll. The total cyanide content was high and therefore, an effective detoxification method is needed. Protein from the cassava leaves was rich in glutamine, aspartic acid, and leucine, but low in methionine and cysteine. Additionally, cassava leaves were found to be a rich source of carotenoids and chlorophyll. This study provided the evidences that cassava leaves can be an alternative source as protein supplement and for carotenoids and chlorophyll extraction and paves the way to valorise this abundant agricultural by-product.

Lasia spinosa Chemical Composition and Therapeutic Potential: A Literature-Based Review

Lasia spinosa (L.) is used ethnobotanically for the treatment of various diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation of the lungs, bleeding cough, hemorrhoids, intestinal diseases, stomach pain, and uterine cancer. This review is aimed at summarizing phytochemistry and pharmacological data with their molecular mechanisms of action. A search was performed in databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar using the keywords: “Lasia spinosa,” then combined with “ethnopharmacological use,” “phytochemistry,” and “pharmacological activity.” This updated review included studies with in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experiments with compounds of known concentration and highlighted pharmacological mechanisms. The research results showed that L. spinosa contains many important nutritional and phytochemical components such as alkanes, aldehydes, alkaloids, carotenoids, flavonoids, fatty acids, ketones, lignans, phenolics, terpenoids, steroids, and volatile oil with excellent bioactivity. The importance of this review lies in the fact that scientific pharmacological evidence supports the fact that the plant has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antidiarrheal, antihelminthic, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and antinociceptive effects, while protecting the gastrointestinal system and reproductive. Regarding future toxicological and safety data, more research is needed, including studies on human subjects. In light of these data, L. spinosa can be considered a medicinal plant with effective bioactives for the adjuvant treatment of various diseases in humans.

Uncovering phylogenetic relationships and genetic diversity of water dropwort using phenotypic traits and SNP markers

The water dropworts Oenanthe linearis Wall. ex DC. and O. javanica (Blume) DC. are aquatic perennial herbs that have been used in China as vegetables and traditional medicines. However, their phylogenetic relationships and genetic diversity are poorly understood. Here, we presented the phenotypic traits and genome-wide DNA marker-based analysis of 158 water dropwort accessions representing both species. The analysis revealed that Oenanthe linearis was readily segregated into linear-leaf and deep-cleft leaf water dropworts according to their leaf shapes at flowering. Oenanthe javanica was classified by clustering analysis into two clusters based mainly on the morphological characteristics of their ultimate segments (leaflets). A set of 11 493 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphisms was identified and used to construct a phylogenetic tree. There was strong discrimination between O. linearis and O. javanica, which was consistent with their phenotype diversification. The population structure and phylogenetic tree analyses suggested that the O. linearis accessions formed two major groups, corresponding to the linear-leaf and deep-cleft leaf types. The most obvious phenotypic differences between them were fully expressed at the reproductive growth stage. A single-nucleotide polymorphism-based analysis revealed that the O. javanica accessions could be categorized into groups I andII. However, this finding did not entirely align with the clusters revealed by morphological classification. Landraces were clustered into one group along with the remaining wild accessions. Hence, water dropwort domestication was short in duration. The level of genetic diversity for O. linearis (π = 0.1902) was slightly lower than that which was estimated for O. javanica (π = 0.2174). There was a low level of genetic differentiation between O. linearis and O. javanica (Fst = 0.0471). The mean genetic diversity among accessions ranged from 0.1818 for the linear-leaf types to 0.2318 for the groupII accessions. The phenotypic traits and the single-nucleotide polymorphism markers identified here lay empirical foundation for future genomic studies on water dropwort.

Glochidion littorale Leaf Extract Exhibits Neuroprotective Effects in Caenorhabditis elegans via DAF-16 Activation

A number of plants used in folk medicine in Thailand and Eastern Asia are attracting interest due to the high bioactivities of their extracts. The aim of this study was to screen the edible leaf extracts of 20 plants found in Thailand and investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of the most bioactive sample. The total phenol and flavonoid content and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging activity were determined for all 20 leaf extracts. Based on these assays, Glochidion littorale leaf extract (GLE), which showed a high value in all tested parameters, was used in further experiments to evaluate its effects on neurodegeneration in Caenorhabditis elegans. GLE treatment ameliorated H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress by attenuating the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and protected the worms against 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium-induced neurodegeneration. The neuroprotective effects observed may be associated with the activation of the transcription factor DAF-16. The characterization of this extract by LC-MS identified several phenolic compounds, including myricetin, coumestrin, chlorogenic acid, and hesperidin, which may play a key role in neuroprotection. This study reports the novel neuroprotective activity of GLE, which may be used to develop treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s syndrome.

Flavonolignan 2, 3-dehydroderivatives from Oenanthe javanica and their anti inflammatory activities

Flavonolignans, for example, silymarin and silybin, have interesting biological activities. For the first time, three new flavonolignans named oenanthenoid A-C (1-3) and nine known flavonolignan derivatives (4-12) were isolated from Oenanthe javanica. Comprehensive spectroscopic data analysis and references were used to identify all of the compounds. The anti inflammatory activities of these isolates (1-12) on RAW264.7 macrophage cells were investigated. Three new compounds (1-3) demonstrated anti inflammatory activity with IC₅₀ values ranging from 6.5 ± 0.6 to 14.7 ± 1.6 µM. Furthermore, two compounds (11 and 12) demonstrated moderate anti inflammatory activity, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 24.1 ± 1.2 to 62.5 ± 1.9 µM.

Nutrient and Mineral Compositions of Wild Leafy Vegetables of the Karen and Lawa Communities in Thailand

Wild food plants are commonly used in the traditional diets of indigenous people in many parts of the world, including northern Thailand. The potential contribution of wild food plants to the nutrition of the Karen and Lawa communities remains poorly understood. Wild food plants, with a focus on leafy vegetables, were ranked by the Cultural Food Significance Index (CFSI) based on semi-structured interviews. Twelve wild plant species were highly mentioned and widely consumed. The importance of the wild vegetables was mainly related to taste, availability, and multifunctionality of the species. Their contents of proximate and minerals (P, K, Na, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu) were analyzed using standard methods. The proximate contents were comparable to most domesticated vegetables. The contents of Mg (104 mg/100 g FW), Fe (11 mg/100 g FW), and Zn (19 mg/100 g FW) in the wild leafy vegetables were high enough to cover the daily recommended dietary allowances of adults (19-50 years), whereas a few species showed Mn contents higher than the tolerable upper intake level (>11 mg/100 g edible part). The wild leafy vegetables, therefore, are good sources of minerals and we recommend their continued usage by indigenous people. Further research on these wild leafy vegetables' contents of antioxidants, vitamins, heavy metals, anti-nutrient factors, and food safety is recommended.

Development of Microemulsions Containing Glochidion wallichianum Leaf Extract and Potential for Transdermal and Topical Skin Delivery of Gallic Acid

Glochidion wallichianum (GW) is a good source of antioxidants, including gallic acid, promoting its development as a microemulsion. We constructed five pseudo-ternary phase diagrams comprising isopropyl myristate (IPM), water, and surfactant mixture (Smix)—i.e., Labrasol®:HCO-40® (1:1) with Transcutol® (1:1, 2:1, 3:1), and Tween80:Span80 (3:2) with Transcutol® or propylene glycol:ethanol (1:1). Additionally, blank and GW extract-loaded microemulsions were prepared at an IPM:Water:Smix ratio of 10:30:60 (high water content) and 30:10:60 (high oil content) from each Smix. The physical characteristics, skin permeation, and disposition were evaluated. The formulations with high water content and conductivities provided higher gallic acid permeation and disposition than those with high oil content. The Smix of Labrasol®:HCO-40® (1:1) and Transcutol® (1:1) promoted the highest gallic acid permeation (enhancement ratio 1.78 ± 0.12) and was suitable for transdermal delivery. However, the 1% hydroxypropyl methylcellulose control gel, the microemulsion with Smix of Labrasol®:HCO-40® (1:1) with Transcutol® (2:1), and Smix of Tween80:Span80 (3:2) with propylene glycol:ethanol (1:1) could provide higher skin accumulation of gallic acid than that with other formulations. The microstructures, ratio of surfactant:cosurfactant, and compositions of microemulsions were found to affect the skin permeation and disposition of gallic acid and require optimization to act as transdermal or topical delivery carriers.

Nutritional composition of conserved Kadsura spp. plants in Northern Thailand

The genus Kadsura comprises woody vine plants belonging to the family Schisandraceae. Species are found mostly in Northern Thailand and widely consumed by the local population. Occurrences of these wild fruits are rare as they only grow naturally in forest areas. Nutritive values of Kadsura spp. remain unclear, leading to improper management for food applications. Nutritional composition of Kadsura spp. was evaluated to promote sustainable conservation. Nutritive values in different fruits parts (exocarp, mesocarp, seed and core) of two Kadsura species as Kadsura coccinea (Lem.) A.C. Sm. and Kadsura heteroclita (Roxb.) Craib, from Chiang Rai Province, Thailand were assessed. When comparing nutritional contents based on per 100 g dry weight, results suggested that K. coccinea exhibited higher carbohydrate (1–2 times), sugar (1–2 times) and vitamin C (3–4 times) contents than K. heteroclita, while the latter possessed higher fat (1–2 times), protein (1.6–1.9 times), and dietary fiber (1.5–1.8 times) contents. Considering each fruit part, the mesocarp (the only edible fruit part) and exocarp of both species provided high dietary fiber (11.6–20.9% recommended dietary fiber) and vitamin C (as high as 73% recommended per day) but were low in energy (30–40 kcal/100 g fresh weight), protein (0.6–1.2% recommended per day), fat (0.5–1.8% recommended per day) and sugar (2.4–5.4% recommended per day). Interestingly, seed contained higher energy (1–2 times), protein (2–3 times) and fat (4–50 times) than the other fruit parts. Results support the potential consumption of Kadsura spp. as a healthy fruit that can be used for future food applications. Seed and exocarp from Kadsura spp. also showed potential for new product development.

Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anticancer Effects of Anacardium Plants: An Ethnopharmacological Perspective

Anacardium plants have received increasing recognition due to its nutritional and biological properties. A number of secondary metabolites are present in its leaves, fruits, and other parts of the plant. Among the diverse Anacardium plants' bioactive effects, their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities comprise those that have gained more attention. Thus, the present article aims to review the Anacardium plants' biological effects. A special emphasis is also given to their pharmacological and clinical efficacy, which may trigger further studies on their therapeutic properties with clinical trials.

Cytogenotoxic and mutagenic profiling of cashew nut shell liquids and cardanol

Background

Cashew and its compounds have many important biological effects. This study is aimed at evaluating genotoxic and mutagenic effects of natural cashew nut shell liquid (nCNSL) and industrial cashew nut shell liquid (iCNSL) and a major component of iCNSL called Cardanol.

Methods

Test samples were undergone for comet assay and micronucleus tests inSwissalbino mice. Animals were orally treated with 17.37, 34.75 and 69.5 mg/kg of the test substances taking distilled water (10 mL/kg; DW) and cyclophosphamide (50 mg/kg) as negative (NC) and positive (PC) controls, respectively.

Results

The results suggest that nCNSL at 34.7 and 69.5 mg/kg and Cardanol at all tested doses induced significant genotoxic effects to the female mouse bone marrow cells, while iCNSL did not. Both nCNSL and iCNSL as well as Cardanol did not show mutagenic and cytotoxic effects. All the test samples also showed DNA repair capacity at low dose.

Conclusion

Cashew nut shell liquids and Cardanol showed genotoxic effects at high dose, but DNA repair, non-mutagenic and non-cytotoxic effects at low dose.

The potential of antioxidant-rich Maoberry (Antidesma bunius) extract on fat metabolism in liver tissues of rats fed a high-fat diet

Backgound

Obesity and dyslipidemia are major risk factors associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD refers to the accumulation of fat in more than 5% of the liver without alcohol consumption. NAFLD is the most common liver disease and is rapidly becoming a global public health problem. Maoberry (Antidesma bunius) is a fruit rich in antioxidants, especially phenolic compounds, which are reported to have benefits for patients with NAFLD.

Methods

We evaluated the effect of Maoberry extract on fat metabolism in liver tissues of high fat diet–induced rats. Five (5) groups (n = 12) of male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into those given a high fat diet with no treatment (HF), different dosages of Maoberry extracts (0.38 [ML], 0.76 [MM) and 1.52 [MH] g/kg body weight) and 10 mg/kg statin (STAT). The rats were fed a high fat diet for 4 weeks to induce obesity and subsequently continued more for 12 weeks with treatments of Maoberry extracts or STAT. The levels of triglyceride, liver enzymes, oxidative stress and inflammation markers, triglyceride synthesis regulators, and pathology of the liver in high fat diet-induced rats were investigated.

Results

Feeding Maoberry extract in MH groups resulted in decreasing levels of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), liver triglyceride, liver thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and mRNA expression of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT)-1 and acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC) compared with the HF group (P < 0.05). Moreover, histopathological study of the liver showed reduced fat droplets in the Maoberry extract treatment groups, especially in MH groups and STAT treatment groups.

Conclusions

The improvements of fat metabolism in liver tissues of rats fed a high-fat diet were observed in Maoberry extracts treatment groups. The underline mechanism that link to fat metabolism might be through the process accompanied with down-regulated the gene expression of key enzymes of lipid production, antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammation properties of Maoberry extracts which contains high levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds.

Patagonian Berries: Healthy Potential and the Path to Becoming Functional Foods

In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in studying food and its derived ingredients that can provide beneficial effects for human health. These studies are helping to understand the bases of the ancestral use of several natural products, including native fruits as functional foods. As a result, the polyphenol profile and the antioxidant capacity of the extracts obtained from different Patagonian native berries have been described. This review aims to provide valuable information regarding fruit quality, its particular compound profile, and the feasibility of producing functional foods for human consumption to prevent disorders such as metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases. We also discuss attempts concerning the domestication of these species and generating knowledge that strengthens their potential as traditional fruits in the food market and as a natural heritage for future generations. Finally, additional efforts are still necessary to fully understand the potential beneficial effects of the consumption of these berries on human health, the application of suitable technology for postharvest improvement, and the generation of successfully processed foods derived from Patagonian berries.

Lifespan Extending and Oxidative Stress Resistance Properties of a Leaf Extracts from Anacardium occidentale L. in Caenorhabditis elegans

Anacardium occidentale (AO) contains a number of polyphenolic secondary metabolites with antioxidant activity. The objectives of this study were aimed at investigating the roles of AO leaf extracts in antioxidative stress and longevity, as well as their underlying mechanisms, in the Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) model. AO extracts mediated the survival rate of nematodes under oxidative stress by attenuating intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) via the DAF-16/FoxO and SKN-1/Nrf-2 signaling pathways. AO extracts stimulated the expression of stress response genes including SOD-3 and GST-4. Moreover, AO extracts exhibited antiaging activities and enhanced longevity. We observed improved pharyngeal pumping function, attenuation of pigment accumulation (lipofuscin), and an increased lifespan of the worms. Collectively, our results demonstrated that AO extracts exerted both oxidative stress resistance and antiaging properties in the C. elegans model and may lead to new agents to benefit humans in the near future.

A Review of Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC. as Traditional Medicinal Plant and Its Therapeutic Potential

Oenanthe javanica, popularly known as water dropwort, has long been used in various ethnomedical systems in Asia, especially in China, Korean, and Japan, for treating various chronic and acute hepatitis, jaundice, alcohol hangovers, abdominal pain, and inflammatory conditions. The present review aims to provide a general report of the available literature on traditional uses, phytochemical, pharmacological, nutritional, and toxicological data related to the O. javanica as a potential source of new compounds with biological activities. Considering phytochemical studies, coumarins, flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides, organic acids, and polyphenols were the main classes of compounds identified in the whole plant which were correlated with their biological activities such as hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, immune enhancement, ethanol elimination, antioxidant, antiviral, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, anticoagulant, anti-fatigue, hypoglycemic, cardiovascular protection, analgesic, and insecticidal activities.

Antioxidant Activities of Dialium indum L. Fruit and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) of the Active Fractions

The fruit of Dialium indum L. (Fabaceae) is one of the edible wild fruits native to Southeast Asia. The mesocarp is consumed as sweets while the exocarp and seed are regarded as waste. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activities of the fruit by using four assays, which measure its capabilities in reducing phosphomolybdic-phosphotungstic acid reagents, neocuproine, 2,2-diphenyl-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and inhibiting linoleic acid peroxidation. The active fractions were then analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results showed that the seed methanol fraction (SMF) exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity with significantly higher (p < 0.05) gallic acid equivalence (GAE), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50 31.71; 0.88 µg/mL) than the other fractions. The exocarp dichloromethane fraction (EDF) was the discriminating fraction by having remarkable linoleic acid peroxidation inhibition (IC50 121.43; 2.97 µg/mL). A total of thirty-eight metabolites were detected in derivatized EDF and SMF with distinctive classes of phenolics and amino acids, respectively. Bioautography-guided fractionation of EDF afforded five antioxidant-enriched subfractions with four other detected phenolics. The results revealed the antioxidant properties of D. indum fruit, which has potential benefits in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmeceutical applications.

Effects of Nonthermal Plasma Technology on Functional Food Components

Understanding the impact of nonthermal plasma (NTP) technology on key nutritional and functional food components is of paramount importance for the successful adoption of the technology by industry. NTP technology (NTPT) has demonstrated marked antimicrobial efficacies with good retention of important physical, chemical, sensory, and nutritional parameters for an array of food products. This paper presents the influence of NTPT on selected functional food components with a focus on low-molecular-weight bioactive compounds and vitamins. We discuss the mechanisms of bioactive compound alteration by plasma-reactive species and classify their influence on vitamins and their antioxidant capacities. The impact of NTP on specific bioactive compounds depends both on plasma properties and the food matrix. Induced changes are mainly associated with oxidative degradation and cleavage of double bonds in organic compounds. The effects reported to date are mainly time-dependent increases in the concentrations of polyphenols, vitamin C, or increases in antioxidant activity. Also, improvement in the extraction efficiency of polyphenols is observed. The review highlights future research needs regarding the complex mechanisms of interaction with plasma species. NTP is a novel technology that can both negatively and positively affect the functional components in food.

Nutritional Compositions and Phytochemical Properties of the Edible Flowers from Selected Zingiberaceae Found in Thailand

The nutritional compositions and phytochemical properties of eight edible flowers of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) commonly found in Thailand are reported herein. The plant genera investigated were Zingiber (Ginger, Phlai Dam, Krathue), Hedychium (two morphological filament forms), Curcuma (Ao), Etlingera (Torch ginger), Amomum (Chi Kuk), and Alpinia (Galangal), which are eaten fresh or cooked as ingredients in the preparation of many Thai dishes. The proximate compositions (moisture, ash, fiber, protein, fat, and carbohydrate contents) varied among the different genera. The plants sampled were generally low in fat content (<1%), which contributed as little as 30% of the total caloric energy. Edible plant parts contained substantially high amounts of potassium (max. 737.21 mg/100 g), calcium (max. 140.15 mg/100 g), and iron (~0.32 mg/100 g). Among the tested samples, torch ginger had the highest vitamin C content (1.05 mg/100 g), total phenolic and total flavonoid contents, as well as 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl activity. On the other hand, the 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assay suggested that Hedychium species possessed the highest antioxidant activity (~5.38 mg TEAC/g extract). Our results prove that edible plants of the Zingiberaceae family found in Thailand are rich sources of potentially important nutrients.

Treating leishmaniasis in Amazonia: A review of ethnomedicinal concepts and pharmaco-chemical analysis of traditional treatments to inspire modern phytotherapies

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis are neglected tropical diseases that occur in all intertropical regions of the world. Amazonian populations have developed an abundant knowledge of the disease and its remedies. Therefore, we undertook to review traditional antileishmanial plants in Amazonia and have developed new tools to analyze this somewhat dispersed information.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A literature review of traditional remedies for cutaneous/mucocutaneous leishmaniasis in the Amazon was conducted and the data obtained was used to calculate distribution indexes designed to highlight the most relevant uses in Amazonia. The cultural distribution index represents the distribution rate of a given taxon among different cultural groups and was calculated as the ratio of the number of groups using the taxon to the total number of groups cited. The geographical distribution index allowed us to quantify spatial distribution of a taxon's uses in Amazonia and was calculated geometrically by measuring the average distance between the points where uses have been reported and the barycenter of those points. The general distribution index was defined as an arithmetic combination of the previous two and provides information on both cultural and spatial criteria.

RESULTS

475 use reports, concerning 291 botanical species belonging to 83 families have been gathered depicted from 29 sources. Uses concern 34 cultural groups. While the use of some taxa appears to be Pan-Amazonian, some others are clearly restricted to small geographical regions. Particular attention has been paid to the recipes and beliefs surrounding treatments. Topical application of the remedies dominated the other means of administration and this deserves particular attention as the main treatments against Neotropical leishmaniasis are painful systemic injections. The data set was analyzed using the previously defined distribution indexes and the most relevant taxa were further discussed from a phytochemical and pharmacological point of view.

CONCLUSIONS

The Amazonian biodiversity and cultural heritage host a fantastic amount of data whose systematic investigation should allow a better large-scale understanding of the dynamics of traditional therapies and the consequent discovery of therapeutic solutions for neglected diseases. Distribution indices are indeed powerful tools for emphasizing the most relevant treatments against a given disease and should be very useful in the meta-analysis of other regional pharmacopeia. This focus on renowned remedies that have not yet benefitted from extended laboratory studies, could stimulate future research on new treatments of natural origin for leishmaniasis.

Variation in biochemical and antioxidant attributes of Raphanus sativus in response to foliar application of plant leaf extracts as plant growth regulator

The present study was aimed to appraise the variations in biochemical, antioxidant and nutritional attributes of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) under foliar application of plant leaf aqueous extracts i.e., mulberry leaf extract (MLE), brassica leaf extract (BLE), sorghum leaf extract (SLE) and moringa leaf extract (MoLE) as natural growth regulators. Samples were collected after three sprays of extracts and analyzed. Total phenolic constituents were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent method, whereas antioxidant potential was evaluated by 1,1 diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical radical scavenging and reducing power assays. Results revealed that application of MLE, BLE, SLE, and MoLE not only improved growth, but also enhanced biochemical and antioxidant activities. Foliar spray of MoLE furnished relatively three folds higher amounts of extractable bioactive compounds (37.65 ± 0.94%), phenolic constituents (54.51-182.71 mg GAE/g f.w). The radical scavenging capacity (RSC) and reducing potential were also enhanced considerably. Furthermore, the moisture, dietary fiber, crude protein, and carotenoids were also enhanced in response of foliar spray of plant extracts. From results, it is concluded that plant extracts are effective sources of natural growth regulars and might be useful for the production of vegetables with improved nutritional value and antioxidant activity.

Nutrient values and bioactivities of the extracts from three fern species in China: a comparative assessment

Pteridium aquilinum, Osmunda cinnamomea Linn, and Athyrium multidentatum (Doll.) Ching are three fern species widely consumed as potherbs and traditional medicinal herbs in China. Nevertheless, no detailed comparative assessments of their nutrient values and bioactivities have been reported. In this paper, we examined the nutrient content of these ferns and the bioactivities of their extracts with a comparative method. The results indicated that they were nutrient dense for proteins, carbohydrates, fat and minerals. Compared with Pteridium aquilinum and Osmunda cinnamomea Linn, the extract from Athyrium multidentatum (Doll.) Ching was found to possess the strongest antioxidant activity, protective effects on biomolecules, cellular antioxidant activity, and antiproliferative effects owing to its highest total phenolic (476.52 ± 11.26 mg GAE per g extract) and total flavonoid (924.81 ± 4.25 mg RNE per g extract) contents. Further, Athyrium multidentatum (Doll.) Ching can lead to caspase-3 activation, poly ADP-ribose polymerase cleavage, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) reduction and inhibition of wound-healing in a dose-dependent manner in HepG2 cells. These results demonstrate the remarkable potential of Pteridium aquilinum, Osmunda cinnamomea Linn, and Athyrium multidentatum (Doll.) Ching as valuable sources of nutrients and natural antioxidants, and among which Athyrium multidentatum (Doll.) Ching has potential anticancer properties.

Transcriptome Characterization of Gnetum parvifolium Reveals Candidate Genes Involved in Important Secondary Metabolic Pathways of Flavonoids and Stilbenoids

Gnetum is a small, unique group of Gnetophyta with a controversial phylogenetic position. Gnetum parvifolium is an important Chinese traditional medicinal plant, which is rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and stilbenoids. These compounds provide significant medicinal effects, mostly as antioxidant, anticancer, and antibacterial agents. However, the mechanisms involved in the biosynthesis and regulation of these compounds in G. parvifolium are still unknown. In this study, we found that flavonoids and stilbene compounds accumulated at different levels in various tissues of G. parvifolium. We further obtained and analyzed massive sequence information from pooled samples of G. parvifolium by transcriptome sequencing, which generated 94,816 unigenes with an average length of 724 bp. Functional annotation of all these unigenes revealed that many of them were associated with several important secondary metabolism pathways including flavonoids and stilbenoids. In particular, several candidate unigenes (PAL-, C4H-, 4CL-, and STS-like genes) involved in stilbenoids biosynthesis were highly expressed in leaves and mature fruits. Furthermore, high temperature and UV-C strongly induced the expression of these genes and enhanced stilbene production (i.e., resveratrol and piceatannol) in leaves of young seedlings. Our present transcriptomic and biochemical data on secondary metabolites in G. parvifolium should encourage further investigation on evolution, ecology, functional genomics, and breeding of this plant with strong pharmaceutical potential.

Evaluation of Minerals, Phytochemical Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Mexican, Central American, and African Green Leafy Vegetables

The green leafy vegetables Cnidoscolus aconitifolius and Crotalaria longirostrata are native to Mexico and Central America, while Solanum scabrum and Gynandropsis gynandra are native to Africa. They are consumed in both rural and urban areas in those places as a main food, food ingredient or traditional medicine. Currently, there is limited information about their nutritional and phytochemical composition. Therefore, mineral, vitamin C, phenolic and flavonoid concentration, and antioxidant activity were evaluated in multiple accessions of these leafy vegetables, and their mineral and vitamin C contribution per serving was calculated. The concentrations of Ca, K, Mg and P in these leafy vegetables were 0.82-2.32, 1.61-7.29, 0.61-1.48 and 0.27-1.44 mg/g fresh weight (FW), respectively. The flavonoid concentration in S. scabrum accessions was up to 1413 μg catechin equivalents/g FW, while the highest antioxidant activities were obtained in C. longirostrata accessions (52-60 μmol Trolox equivalents/g FW). According to guidelines established by the US Food and Drug Administration, a serving size (30 g FW) of C. longirostrata would be considered an excellent source of Mo (20 % or more of the daily value), and a serving of any of these green leafy vegetables would be an excellent source of vitamin C. Considering the importance of the minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidants in human health and their presence in these indigenous green leafy vegetables, efforts to promote their consumption should be implemented.