Phytochemical evaluation of white (Morus alba L.) and black (Morus nigra L.) mulberry fruits, a starting point for the assessment of their beneficial properties

Mulberry polyphenols restored both small and large intestinal microflora in db/db mice, potentially alleviating type 2 diabetes

Polyphenols in mulberry fruit have potential anti-diabetic effects by targeting the gut microbiota. This study investigated how mulberry polyphenols (MPs) influence the microbiota of the small and large intestines and their effects on type 2 diabetes symptoms. The results showed lower microbiota densities in the small intestine. MP treatments improved microbiota richness and diversity in both intestines, similar to metformin. In particular, at a 400 mg kg-1 dose, mulberry polyphenols decreased Firmicutes, Lactobacillus, and Bacilli, while increasing Bacteroidetes, leading to elevated propionate and butyrate levels. Less abundant small intestinal microbiota, like Enterobacterales, Mycoplasmatales, Enterobacteriaceae, and Ureaplasma, were involved in regulating blood glucose and insulin levels. Functional analysis suggested that mulberry polyphenols reshaped the small intestinal microbiota to influence blood glucose balance via unknown pathways, while in the large intestine, they primarily affected blood glucose through carbohydrate transport and metabolism. Based on their ability to regulate the composition of intestinal flora, MPs likely improved glucose homeostasis by enhancing glucose utilization, supporting pancreatic tissue health, and increasing serum antioxidant capacity. However, the specific mechanisms underlying this potential are yet to be fully explored. This study provides new insights into the influence of MPs on remodeling the microbiota residing in both the small and large intestines, which thereby may contribute to the improvement of the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticle Using Black Mulberry and Characterization, Phytochemical, and Bioactivity

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using plant extracts has been proposed as a more advantageous and environmentally friendly alternative compared to existing physical/chemical methods. In this study, AgNPs were synthesized from silver nitrate using black mulberry (BM) extract. The biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized through an UV-visible spectrometer, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. Additionally, BM-AgNPs were subjected to antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. AgNPs biosynthesized from BM extract were dark brown in color and showed a strong peak at 437 nm, confirming that AgNPs were successfully synthesized. The size of AgNPs was 170.17 ± 12.65 nm, the polydispersity index was 0.281 ± 0.07, and the zeta potential value was -56.6 ± 0.56 mV, indicating that the particles were stable. The higher total phenol, flavonoid, and anthocyanin content of BM-AgNPs compared to BM extract indicates that the particles contain multiple active substances due to the formation of AgNPs. The DPPH and ABTS assays showed decreased IC50 values compared to BM extract, demonstrating improved antioxidant activity. AgNPs inhibited the growth of S. aureus and E. coli at 600 μg/mL, with minimum bactericidal concentrations determined to be 1000 and 1200 μg/mL, respectively. The anti-inflammatory activity was 64.28% at a BM-AgNPs concentration of 250 μg/mL. As the concentration increased, the difference from the standard decreased, indicating the inhibitory effect of AgNPs on bovine serum albumin denaturation. The viability of MCF-7 cells treated with BM-AgNPs was found to be significantly lower than that of cells treated with BM extract. The IC50 value of BM-AgNPs was determined to be 96.9 μg/mL. This study showed that BM-AgNPs have the potential to be used in the pharmaceutical industry as antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer agents.

Biosynthesis and Pharmacological Activities of the Bioactive Compounds of White Mulberry (Morus alba): Current Paradigms and Future Challenges

Traditional natural products have been the focus of research to explore their medicinal properties. One such medicinally important plant is the white mulberry, Morus alba, widely distributed in the Asian subcontinent. It is one of the most cultivated species of mulberry tree and has attracted more focus from researchers because of its abundance in phytochemicals as well as multipurpose uses. The leaves, fruits and other parts of the white mulberry plant act as a source of valuable bioactive compounds like flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids and alkaloids. These secondary metabolites have manifold healthy uses as they possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, neutrotrophic, and anticancer properties. Despite the increasing scientific interest in this plant, there are very few reviews that highlight the phytochemistry and biological potential of white mulberry for biomedical research. To this end, this review elaborates the phytochemistry, biosynthetic pathways and pharmacological activities of the glycoside flavonoids of Morus alba. A comprehensive analysis of the available literature indicates that Morus alba could emerge as a promising natural agent to combat diverse conditions including diabetes, cancer, inflammation and infectious diseases. To achieve such important objectives, it is crucial to elucidate the biosynthesis and regulation mechanisms of the bioactive compounds in white mulberry as well as the multifaceted pharmacological effects attributed to this plant resource. The present review paper is intended to present a summary of existing scientific data and a guide for further research in the phytochemistry and pharmacology of white mulberry. Further, a biosynthetic pathway analysis of the glycoside flavonoid in mulberry is also given. Lastly, we discuss the pros and cons of the current research to ensure the prudent and effective therapeutic value of mulberry for promoting human and animal health.

Phenolic acids from medicinal and edible homologous plants: a potential anti-inflammatory agent for inflammatory diseases

Inflammation has been shown to trigger a wide range of chronic diseases, particularly inflammatory diseases. As a result, the focus of research has been on anti-inflammatory drugs and foods. In recent years, the field of medicinal and edible homology (MEH) has developed rapidly in both medical and food sciences, with 95% of MEH being associated with plants. Phenolic acids are a crucial group of natural bioactive substances found in medicinal and edible homologous plants (MEHPs). Their anti-inflammatory activity is significant as they play a vital role in treating several inflammatory diseases. These compounds possess enormous potential for developing anti-inflammatory drugs and functional foods. However, their development is far from satisfactory due to their diverse structure and intricate anti-inflammatory mechanisms. In this review, we summarize the various types, structures, and distribution of MEHP phenolic acids that have been identified as of 2023. We also analyze their anti-inflammatory activity and molecular mechanisms in inflammatory diseases through NF-κB, MAPK, NLRP3, Nrf2, TLRs, and IL-17 pathways. Additionally, we investigate their impact on regulating the composition of the gut microbiota and immune responses. This analysis lays the groundwork for further exploration of the anti-inflammatory structure-activity relationship of MEHP phenolic acids, aiming to inspire structural optimization and deepen our understanding of their mechanism, and provides valuable insights for future research and development in this field.

Extraction of flavonoids from black mulberry wine residues and their antioxidant and anticancer activity in vitro

Enhancing the valorization of fruit processing by-products is pivotal for advancing the industry. Black mulberry wine residues, a by-product, contains some bioactive compounds, yet its antioxidant and anticancer potentials remain unverified. In this study, ultrasound-assisted enzymatic extraction was optimized by response surface methodology to obtain the flavonoids extracts from black mulberry wine residues, whose antioxidant capacity and anti-cancer activity in vitro was investigated. The results showed that under the optimal extraction conditions (enzyme ratio at pectinase:cellulose = 2:1, mixed enzyme concentration 0.31 mg/mL, enzymatic hydrolysis temperature 55.35 °C, enzymatic hydrolysis time 79.03 min, and ultrasonic time 22.71 min), the extracts from black mulberry wine residues (BMWR-E) reached 5.672 mg/g. At a concentration of 1.2 mg/mL, BMWR-E exhibited strong DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities. At a concentration of 2.5 mg/mL, BMWR-E showed a strong superoxide anion radical scavenging capacity, with no significant distinction compared to the positive control group (Vitamin C) (p > 0.05). Cell viability assay results showed that BMWR-E was non-toxic to normal BRL-3A cells when applied at concentrations of 0.1-0.3 mg/mL for an incubation period of 24 h, but BMWR-E exhibited the ability to inhibit the proliferation of HepG2 cells. At concentrations of 0.2 mg/mL and above, BMWR-E could induce late apoptosis of HepG2 cells by increasing the protein expression levels of Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-12, reducing the protein expression levels of Bcl-2, inducing cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase, thereby inhibiting the proliferation of HepG2 cells. The bioactive properties make BMWR-E possess potential in developing new antioxidants and anti-cancer agents, which would significantly enhance the economic worth of agricultural by-products in product processing. This research can improve the utilization rate of agricultural product processing by-products and protect the environment.

Profiling the Bioactive Compounds in Broccoli Heads with Varying Organ Sizes and Growing Seasons

Broccoli is a rich source of diverse bioactive compounds, but how their contents are influenced by different growing seasons and variations in broccoli head sizes remains elusive. To address this question, we quantified sixteen known bioactive compounds and seven minerals in broccoli with varying head sizes obtained in two different growing seasons. Our results suggest that the contents of vitamin C, total phenols, carotenoids, and glucoraphanin were significantly higher in samples from the summer-autumn season, showing increases of 157.46%, 34.74%, 51.80%, and 17.78%, respectively, compared with those from the winter-spring season. Moreover, chlorogenic acid is a phenolic compound with relatively high contents among the six detected, while beta-sitosterol is the sterol with relatively high contents. Further, principal component analysis was conducted to rank the comprehensive scores of the profiles of phenolic compounds, phytosterols, and minerals, demonstrating that the broccoli samples grown during the summer-autumn season achieved the highest composite scores. Our results indicate that broccoli heads from the summer-autumn season are richer in a combination of bioactive compounds and minerals than those from the winter-spring season based on the composite score. This study extends our understanding of the nutrition profiles in broccoli and also lays the foundation for breeding broccoli varieties with improved nutrition quality.

Industrial and culinary treatments applied to Piquillo pepper (Capsicum annuum cv. Piquillo) impact positively on (poly)phenols' bioaccessibility and gut microbiota catabolism

Thermal treatments applied to plant-based foods prior to consumption might influence (poly)phenols' bioaccessibility and the metabolization of these compounds by the gut microbiota. In the present research, the impact of industrial (grilling and canning) and culinary (microwaving and frying) treatments on the bioaccessibility and colonic biotransformations of (poly)phenols from Piquillo pepper (Capsicum annum cv. Piquillo) were evaluated by in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and colonic fermentation models and HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. The application of industrial treatments impacted positively on (poly)phenols' bioaccessibility compared to raw pepper. Microwaving also exerted a positive effect on (poly)phenols' bioaccessibility compared to canning whereas the addition of oil for frying seemed to negatively affect (poly)phenols' release from the food matrix. Throughout the 48 hours of the colonic fermentation process (poly)phenolic compounds were catabolized into different (poly)phenol derivatives whose formation was also positively affected by industrial and culinary treatments. Based on the concentration and time of appearance of these derivatives, catabolic pathways of (poly)phenols from Piquillo pepper were proposed. The major (poly)phenol derivatives identified (3-(3'-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic acid, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenylacetic acid and benzene-1,2-diol) are considered of great interest for the study of their bioactivity and the potential effect on human health.

The Darker the Better: Identification of Chemotype Profile in Soroses of Local and Introduced Mulberry Varieties with Respect to the Colour Type

Mulberries are the "essence of the past", the so-called Proust effect, for the inhabitants of the sericultural regions who enthusiastically remember feeding silkworms with mulberry leaves and picking the different coloured fruits that were their favourite sweets in childhood. To determine the chemistry behind the colour and taste of mulberry soroses, the main metabolites of the local and introduced varieties were studied. The soroses were classified into five different colour types and the size parameters were determined. The main sugars identified were glucose and fructose, while the predominant organic acids were citric and malic acids, which were highest in the darker varieties, and fumaric and tartaric acids, which were highest in the lighter varieties. A total of 42 phenolic compounds were identified. The predominant phenolic acid was chlorogenic acid, followed by other caffeoylquinic acids and coumaroylquinic acids. The predominant anthocyanins were cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside. According to PCA analysis, the colour types showed a clear chemotype character. The sweet taste of the yellowish-white soroses was defined by 49% fructose, followed by 45% glucose and 6% organic acids. The sour character of the black genotypes was characterised by a lower sugar and higher (11%) organic acid content. The colour- and species-dependent effect was observed in the proportion of caffeoylquinic acids and quercetin glycosides, which decreased with increasing colour intensity from 60% of the total to 7%, and from 17% to 1%, respectively. An upward trend was observed for flavanols (5% to 29%) and anthocyanins, which accounted for 62% of the total phenolics in black varieties. This article gives an insight into the metabolite composition of mulberry soroses as the sweets of choice between light and sweet and dark and sour.

Comprehensive structural analysis of polyphenols and their enzymatic inhibition activities and antioxidant capacity of black mulberry (Morus nigra L.)

In this paper, the structures of polyphenols and their bioactivity of black mulberry (Morus nigra L.) cv. 'Heisang No. 1' were comprehensively analyzed. The 11 anthocyanins and 20 non-anthocyanin phenolic compounds were identified and quantified by liquid chromatography high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-HR-TOF/MS²). The cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside were the major anthocyanins in the black mulberry. In addition, the black mulberry showed potent antioxidant capacity as assessed by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Black mulberry anthocyanins exhibited stronger inhibition activities against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and lipase compared to non-anthocyanin polyphenols, with IC₅₀ values of 1.10, 4.36, and 9.18 mg/mL, respectively. The total anthocyanin content of black mulberry crude extracts and anthocyanins was 570.10 ± 77.09 and 1278.23 ± 117.60 mg C3GE/100 g DW, respectively. Black mulberry may be a rich source of polyphenols, natural antioxidants, and effective antidiabetic substances with great potential in the food industry.

LC-MS/MS Analysis Elucidates the Different Effects of Industrial and Culinary Processing on Total and Individual (Poly)phenolic Compounds of Piquillo Pepper (Capsicum annuum cv. Piquillo)

Pepper constitutes an important source of (poly)phenols, mainly flavonoids. Nevertheless, heat treatments applied prior to consumption may have an impact on these antioxidants, and thus may also affect their potential bioactivity. In this study, the effect of industrial and culinary treatments on the total and individual (poly)phenolic content of Piquillo pepper (Capsicum annuum cv. Piquillo) was thoroughly evaluated by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 40 (poly)phenols were identified and quantified in raw pepper. Flavonoids (10 flavonols, 15 flavones, and 2 flavanones) were the major compounds identified (62.6%). Among the 13 phenolic acids identified in raw samples, cinnamic acids were the most representative. High temperatures applied and subsequent peeling during industrial grilling drastically decreased the total (poly)phenolic content from 2736.34 to 1099.38 μg/g dm (59.8% reduction). In particular, flavonoids showed a higher reduction of 87.2% after grilling compared to nonflavonoids which only decreased by 14%. Moreover, 9 nonflavonoids were generated during grilling, modifying the (poly)phenolic profile. After culinary treatments, specifically frying, (poly)phenols appear to be better released from the food matrix, enhancing their extractability. Overall, industrial and culinary treatments differently affect both the total and individual (poly)phenolic compounds of pepper and, despite the reduction, they might also positively influence their bioaccessibility.

Morus alba: a comprehensive phytochemical and pharmacological review

Morus alba is a fast-growing shrub or medium-sized tree with a straight, cylindrical trunk. Medicinally, whole plants, leaves, fruits, branches, and roots have been employed. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical components and pharmacologic and mechanism of action of the Morus alba. This was reviewed to assess important updates about Morus alba. The fruits of Morus alba have traditionally been used as an analgesic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, hypotensive, hypoglycemia, purgative, restorative, sedative tonic, and blood stimulant. Various plant parts were used as a cooling, sedating, diuretic, tonic, and astringent agent to treat nerve disorders. The plant contained tannins, steroids, phytosterols, sitosterol, glycosides, alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, and amino acids, as well as saponins, triterpenes, phenolics, flavonoids, benzofuran derivatives, anthocyanins, anthraquinones, glycosides, vitamins, and minerals. Previous pharmacological research identified antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunological, analgesic, antipyretic, antioxidant, anti-cancer, antidiabetic, gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiovascular, hypolipidemic, anti-obesity, dermatological, neurological, muscular, and protecting effects. This study looked at Morus alba's traditional uses, chemical components, and pharmacological effects.

The bioaccessibility, bioavailability, bioactivity, and prebiotic effects of phenolic compounds from raw and solid-fermented mulberry leaves during in vitro digestion and colonic fermentation

The bioaccessibility and bioactivity of phenolic compounds in mulberry leaves (MLs) relate to the digestion process. This study was aimed at investigating the release of phenolic compounds, as well as the potential bioactivities of raw MLs (UF-MLs) and solid-fermented MLs (F-MLs) during in vitro digestion and colonic fermentation. Antioxidant activities and phenolic compounds released in the digested extracts are shown in decreasing order of location: intestinal > oral > gastric. The bioavailability of total phenolics and flavonoids in F-MLs were 10.14 ± 1.81 % and 6.66 ± 0.55 %, respectively. There was no significant difference in the inhibitory activity of α-glucosidase during gastrointestinal digestion. For colonic fermentation, the highest free radical-scavenging ability of DPPH and ABTS was found at 24 h and 48 h, respectively. The release of phenolic compounds was not significantly different after 48 h of colonic fermentation. LC-MS/MS showed that liquiritigenin, apigenin, chlorogenic acid, and ferulic acid were the major compounds released in the small intestine digestion, and valerenic acid was the primary colonic metabolite. 16S rDNA showed that UF-MLs promoted the growth of Bifidobacterium and F-MLs lowered the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio. Furthermore, F-MLs increased the concentration of acetic acids (25.75 ± 0.86 mM) after 24 h of colonic fermentation. The results of this study indicated that F-MLs exhibit relatively higher phenolic bioaccessibility, antioxidant activities, and SCFA production and are a promising candidate as a health food supplement.

Protective Application of Morus and Its Extracts in Animal Production

Different components of the mulberry tree (fruits, leaves, twigs, and roots) are rich in active compounds, and have been reported to possess potent beneficial properties, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-allergenic, antihypertensive, and neuroprotective. The mulberry and its extracts can effectively improve the growth performance and fitness of animals. They not only possess the properties of being safe and purely natural, but also they are not prone to drug resistance. According to the literature, the supplemental level of the mulberry and its extracts in animal diets varies with different species, physiological status, age, and the purpose of the addition. It has been observed that the mulberry and its extracts enhanced the growth performance, the quality of animal products (meat, egg, and milk), the antioxidant and the anti-inflammatory responses of animals. Furthermore, the mulberry and its extracts have antibacterial properties and can effectively moderate the relative abundance of the microbial populations in the rumen and intestines, thus improving the immunity function of animals and reducing the enteric methane (CH₄) production in ruminants. Furthermore, the mulberry and its extracts have the potential to depurate tissues of heavy metals. Collectively, this review summarizes the nutrients, active compounds, and biological functions of mulberry tree products, as well as the application in livestock production with an aim to provide a reference for the utilization of the mulberry and its extracts in animal production.

Phenolic and Flavonoid Content of Black Mulberry (Morus nigra L.) Stem and Their Evaluation Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Profile

The black mulberry (Morus nigra) plant has been widely developed for its bioactivity as natural medicine. This study evaluated plant extracts' total phenolic and flavonoid content and their correlation to M. nigra stem's antioxidant activity and toxicity. Dry powder from the M. nigra stem was extracted by maceration with 96% ethanol to obtain a thick extract (TE) and fractionated using hexane (HF), ethyl acetate (EAF), and ethanol-aqueous (EF). The samples were analyzed for a compound using reagents and the determination of total phenolic and flavonoid content. The samples were evaluated for antioxidant activity using several parameters and their cytotoxic effects using the BSLT method. Identification of compounds in EAF was confirmed to contain phenolic, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, steroids, and terpenoids. EAF showed higher phenolic and flavonoid content than others. The evaluation of antioxidant activity showed that extracts and fractions from M. nigra stems showed the ability to reduce ions and free radicals. EF sample has activity in reducing Mo (IV) ion by TAC method of 98.82±0.53 µM/mg, indicating substantial antioxidant capacity. In addition, EAF samples showed potential activity in reducing DPPH, hydroxyl, and peroxide radicals in the β-carotene bleaching method with IC50 values of 12.13, 42.06, and 57.6 µg/mL, respectively. Similar activity was also seen in the cytotoxic effect of a robust EAF sample with an LC50 value of 16.31 µg/mL. The results show that EAF can be developed as a raw material for traditional medicine as an antioxidant and anticancer candidate with a significant flavonoid and phenolics content.

The Effect of Feeding with Central European Local Mulberry Genotypes on the Development and Health Status of Silkworms and Quality Parameters of Raw Silk

Silkworm rearing activities ceased in the 1970's in several European countries. Attempts on the re-establishment of ecological and sustainable sericulture in Slovenia and Hungary are ongoing. The aim of the study was to assess the usability of locally adapted mulberry genotypes for sericulture and to estimate connections between leaf compound and silkworm performance parameters. A controlled feeding experiment of silkworms was performed to test the influence of leaves from selected trees on the growth of larvae, the health and microbiological status of larvae (e.g., gut bacterial microbiome, Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus infection), weight of cocoons and raw silk parameters. The Slovenian and Hungarian mulberry genotypes had significantly higher total protein contents, and lower total phenolic contents and differed significantly in some individual phenolics compared to the reference sericultural and fruit varieties. Significant differences were found in the contents of the macro- and microelements, namely S, Mn, Fe, and Sr. Based on correlative statistics and multivariate analysis, a combined positive influence of proteins, specific phenolics, and microelements on larval growth and silk thread parameters was predicted. The results of the study indicate that selected local Slovenian and Hungarian mulberry varieties are suitable for high-quality silk cocoon and raw silk production.

Identification and Antioxidant Capacity of Free and Bound Phenolics in Six Varieties of Mulberry Seeds Using UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS

Mulberry seeds are a byproduct of juice processing and may be an important resource for its abundant compounds. In this study, we analyzed the qualitative composition of free and bound phenolics from six varieties of mulberry seeds using UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS. Free phenolics (FPs) and bound phenolics (BPs) were measured using the Folin–Ciocalteu method; antioxidant capacity was determined by measuring 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging activity, using the ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. A total of 28 free and 11 bound phenolics were extracted and identified, wherein five free phenolics were found in mulberry matrices for the first time. The six varieties of mulberry seeds exhibited higher content of FPs than BPs, and there was a correlation between the phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. Consequently, three varieties were selected for their high phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. This study might offer a theoretical basis for the utilization of mulberry seed.

Evaluation of Different Black Mulberry Fruits (Morus nigra L.) Based on Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity

This study evaluated thirteen different black mulberry fruits (Morus nigra L.) grown in the Guangdong region in order to select the best cultivar for health benefits and commercial applications. The phenolic compounds were identified and quantified using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by three in vitro methods. Significant differences among samples were found regarding total soluble solids (6.20-15.83 °Brix), titratable acidity (5.82-48.49 mg CA/g), total phenolic contents (10.82-27.29 mg GAE/g), total flavonoid contents (1.21-2.86 mg RE/g) and total anthocyanin contents (2.91-11.86 mg CE/g). Fifty-five different phenolic compounds were identified, of which fifteen were reported in mulberry for the first time, but only forty-six of them were quantitated. The DPPH radical scavenging activity, ABTS radical scavenging activity and ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power varied significantly among the samples. Overall, cultivars with better combinations of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity were Qiong46 (M-2), Yuebanguo (M-4) and Heizhenzhu (M-10), which were recommended for commercial cultivation.

Phytochemicals, Pharmacological Effects and Molecular Mechanisms of Mulberry

There are numerous varieties of mulberry, and each has high medicinal value and is regarded as a promising source of traditional medicines and functional foods. Nevertheless, the nutrients and uses of mulberry differ from species (Morus alba L., Morus nigra L. and Morus rubra L.). Phenolic compounds are prominent among the biologically active ingredients in mulberry, especially flavonoids, anthocyanins and phenolic acids. Epidemiologic studies suggest that mulberry contains a rich, effective chemical composition and a wide range of biological activity, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and so on. However, compared with other berries, there has been a lack of systematic research on mulberry, and this hinders its further expansion as a functional fruit. The main purpose of this review is to provide the latest data regarding the effective chemical constituents and pharmacological effects of mulberry to support its further therapeutic potential and health functions.

The Effect of Maturity and Extraction Solvents on Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Mulberry (Morus alba) Fruits and Leaves

Cultivation location, maturity levels, and extraction solvents could affect the bioactive compounds and biological activities of mulberry (Morus alba Linnaeus). The lack of study on Malaysia-grown mulberry causes its underutilization. This study investigated the bioactive compound content and the antioxidant activity of Sabah-grown mulberry at two different maturity stages (fruits: red mature and black fully ripe; leaves: young and mature) extracted using 70% (v/v) methanol, 60% (v/v) ethanol, and 65% (v/v) acetone. Analyses showed that mulberry fruits demonstrated maturity-dependent increment (except UHPLC-DAD quantification), while the leaves revealed maturity-dependent reduction. Principal component analysis (PCA) displayed 65% (v/v) acetone black fully ripe fruits as the best phenolics and antioxidant sources. However, the 60% (v/v) ethanol black fully ripe fruits contained 20.08-68.43% higher total anthocyanins. Meanwhile, the 65% (v/v) acetone and 70% (v/v) methanol red mature fruits were higher in chlorogenic acid (27.53-47.12%) and rutin (31.42-35.92%) than other fruit extracts, respectively. For leaves, 65% (v/v) acetone young leaves were the best phenolics and antioxidant sources. However, the 60% (v/v) ethanol young leaves possessed greater chlorogenic acid (19.56-74.11%) than other leaf extracts. Overall, Malaysia-grown mulberry is rich in phenolics and antioxidants, suggesting its potential application in food and pharmaceutical products.

Assessing the Nutritional-Value-Based Therapeutic Potentials and Non-Destructive Approaches for Mulberry Fruit Assessment: An Overview

Among different fruits, mulberry is the most highlighted natural gift in its superior nutritional and bioactive composition, indispensable for continuing a healthy life. It also acts as a hepatoprotective immunostimulator and improves vision, anti-microbial, anti-cancer agent, anti-stress activity, atherosclerosis, neuroprotective functions, and anti-obesity action. The mulberry fruits also help reduce neurological disorders and mental illness. The main reason for that is the therapeutic potentials present in the nutritional components of the mulberry fruit. The available methods for assessing mulberry fruits are mainly chromatographic based, which are destructive and possess many limitations. However, recently some non-invasive techniques, including chlorophyll fluorescence, image processing, and hyperspectral imaging, were employed to detect various mulberry fruit attributes. The present review attempts to collect and explore available information regarding the nutritional and medicinal importance of mulberry fruit. Besides, non-destructive methods established for the fruit are also elaborated. This work helps encourage many more research works to dug out more hidden information about the essential nutrition of mulberry that can be helpful to resolve many mental-illness-related issues.

Chemometric evaluation of functional components and anti-quorum sensing activity of mulberry leaves from Indian cultivars: a potential contribution to the food industry

BACKGROUND

Potential use of many native, easily available vegetal materials for human consumption and value addition is not well recognized. Mulberry, being a traditional industrial crop rich in nutrients and nutraceuticals can be of great importance for the food industry. However, mulberry leaves are mainly being utilized in sericulture and are not exploited for their functional components. Thus, the selection of promising mulberry cultivars, rich in bioactive compounds, like resveratrol and 1-deoxynojirimycin, increase their potential use in functional foods.

RESULTS

Chlorogenic acid, myricetin and kaempferol were the major polyphenols present in the nine selected cultivars, in the range 0.001-0.086, 0.003-0.079 and 0.003-0.163 g kg^-1 fresh weight (FW), respectively. Protocatechuic acid, epicatechin and rutin were predominantly present in cultivars V-1, G-2 and ML (0.103, 0.080 and 0.121 g kg^-1 FW, respectively). Similarly, resveratrol and 1-deoxynojirimycin were highest in cultivars ML and K-2 (0.078 and 0.079 g kg^-1 FW, respectively). Leaf extracts of cultivars G-2 and ML were able to effectively inhibit the violacein production with 64.08% and 70.04%, respectively at the concentration of 6 mg mL^-1 presumably due to a higher content of polyphenols. Chemometric evaluation of chromatographic data showed the intraspecific variability and secondary metabolite co-existence in different cultivars.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering phytoconstituents, cultivars G-2, ML, K-2 and V-1 could contribute efficiently to the rational utilization of mulberry in agro-food industries. Furthermore, cultivars G-2 and ML leaves can be a new source of quorum sensing inhibitory agents. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Optimization of Solvent-Free Microwave-Assisted Hydrodiffusion and Gravity Extraction of Morus nigra L. Fruits Maximizing Polyphenols, Sugar Content, and Biological Activities Using Central Composite Design

Black mulberry, Morus nigra L. (family: Moraceae), is a healthy food and medicinal plant. Microwave hydrodiffusion and gravity (MHG) is one of the most innovative applications of solvent-free microwave extraction. The aim of this study was to optimize for the first time the MHG solvent-free extraction of polyphenols and sugars from M. nigra fruits. Optimization was carried out using a central composite design (CCD) with selected responses such as extraction yield, total polyphenol (TPC), flavonoid (TFC), anthocyanin (TAC), and sugar (TSC) contents, in addition to DPPH radical scavenging, and α-glucosidase (AGHi), lipase (Li), and xanthine oxidase (XOi) inhibition as tools to evaluate the best parameters for efficient and rapid extraction of black mulberry. The optimized extract was characterized in terms of the aforementioned parameters to validate the models, and was further analyzed for 36 individual polyphenols using HPLC-MS/MS. The optimized MHG extract was finally compared with traditional extracts, and demonstrated much better performance in terms of TPC, TAC, and Li, while the traditional extracts showed better XOi and AGHi. In conclusion, MHG is a valuable green technique for the production of non-degraded black mulberry polyphenol-rich extract and we suggest its larger use in the pharmaceutical and food industries.

Tracking the dynamic changes of a flavor, phenolic profile, and antioxidant properties of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum- and Saccharomyces cerevisiae-fermented mulberry wine

The process of fermentation renders the superior quality of mulberry wine based on the microorganisms utilized. The present study aimed at investigating the changes and correlation between phenols and product quality of mulberry wine fermented with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae combinatorially. Total anthocyanins concentration (TAC), polyphenols concentration (TPC), flavonoids concentration (TFC), and antioxidant capacity decreased significantly with high correlation in the fermentation process. TAC gradually reduced with a loss rate of 47.98% from 0 to third day of fermentation. Fermented mulberry wine obtained indicated a dynamic balance due to the presence of p-hydroxybenzoic acids as compared to the primary phenolic constituent. Chlorogenic acid usually presents in mulberry juice. The relative intensity of sourness was the most prominent and reached the maximum (10.93) on day 2 of fermentation. A total of 21 volatile esters were quantified (6621.59 μg/L), which contributed significantly to the aroma of mulberry wine. The enhanced quality of fermented mulberry wine showed contraindications with decreased constituents and escalated wine quality. Rather than usual single inoculum, fermentation combination of LAB and yeast holistically influenced the color, taste, fragrance, phenolic profiles, and antioxidant properties in mulberry wine, ensuring palatability and fit for commercialization prospects.

Submerged fermentation improves bioactivity of mulberry fruits and leaves

Objective

Mulberry (Morus spp.) fruits and leaves have been proven to possess nutraceutical properties. Due to its fast and easy growing characteristics, mulberry fruits (MF) and leaves (ML) potentially emerge as a great source of functional foods. This study aims to enhance bioactivities (antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and hypoglycemic activity) of MF and ML via submerged fermentation using bacteria (Lactobacillus plantarum TAR 4), yeast (Baker’s yeast and red yeast) and fungi (Tempeh and Tapai starter).

Methods

In this study, 25% (mass to volume ratio) of MF and ML were fermented (48 h) with 1% (mass to volume ratio) of different microbial cultures, respectively. Effects of different fermentations on MF and ML were determined based on the changes of total phenolics (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), anthocyanins, total sugar, DPPH activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), albumin denaturation inhibition activity (ADI), anti-lipoxygenase activity and α-amylase inhibition activity (AI).

Results

Generally, ML had higher AI than MF. However, MF exhibited higher DPPH, FRAP and anti-lipoxygenase activity than ML. After all forms of fermentation, DPPH and AI activity of MF and ML were increased significantly (P < 0.05). However, the effects of fermentation on TPC, FRAP, ADI and anti-lipoxygenase activity of MF were in contrast with ML. TPC, FRAP and anti-lipoxygenase activity of ML were enhanced, but reduced in MF after fermentation. Although the effects exerted by different microorganisms in MF and ML fermentation were different, the bioactivities of MF and ML were generally improved after fermentation. Fermentation by Tempeh starter enhanced TPC (by 2-fold), FRAP (by 2.3-fold), AI (at 10% increment) and anti-lipoxygenase activity (by 5-fold) of ML, whereas Tapai fermentation effectively enhanced the DPPH (at 17% increment) and ADI (by 2-fold) activity of MF.

Conclusion

Findings of this study provide an insight into the future process design of MF and ML processing into novel functional foods.

Identification of the promising Ziziphus spina-christi (L.) Willd. genotypes using pomological and chemical proprieties

Ziziphus spina-christi (L.) Willd. is a multi-purpose plant and is very popular found in local markets because of its high nutritional and medicinal values. The present work was carried out to study morphological and chemical properties of native accessions of this species. There were significant differences among the accessions investigated based on the morphological and chemical characters. Total phenolic content ranged from 4.84 to 49.58 mg/g fresh weight (FW). Total flavonoid content varied from 0.45 to 2.29 mg/g FW. Antioxidant activity measured with DPPH ranged from 0.32 to 16.99 mg/g FW, while it ranged from 6.64 to 84.15 µM FeSO4 FW with the FRAP method. The total phenol content showed significant and positive correlations with total flavonoid content (r = 0.33), antioxidant activity obtained with DPPH (r = 0.85), and antioxidant activity obtained with FRAP (r = 0.54). The ward dendrograms divided the accessions studied into two major clusters based on morphological and chemical characteristics. Based on the traits related to fruit quality such as fruit weight, fruit skin color, and fruit flavor, as well as in terms of chemical characteristics related to medicinal properties such as total flavonoids and antioxidant activity, 17 accessions were superior that could be used in breeding programs or cultivated directly. The present results can be used in defining conservation strategies, genetic improvement, and crop production.

(Poly)phenol characterisation in white and red cardoon stalks: could the sous-vide technique improve their bioaccessibility?

This study aims to evaluate whether sous-vide cooking better preserves the (poly)phenol content and profile of red and white cardoon stalks versus traditional boiling, both before and after simulated oral-gastro-intestinal digestion. Thirty one (poly)phenols were quantified in red and white cardoon by HPLC-MS/MS, phenolic acids being >95%, and 5-caffeoylquinic and 1,5-dicaffeoylquinic acids the major ones. Although both varieties showed a similar profile, raw red cardoon had 1.7-fold higher (poly)phenol content than raw white cardoon. Culinary treatments decreased (poly)phenol content, but sous-vide cooked cardoon had a greater content than the boiled one, suggesting a protective effect. After gastrointestinal digestion, (poly)phenol bioaccessibility of boiled and sous-vide cooked cardoon (52.6-90.5%) was higher than that of raw samples (0.2-0.7%), although sous-vide system no longer played a protective effect compared to boiling. In summary, red cardoon was a richer source of bioaccessible (poly)phenols than white cardoon, even sous-vide cooked or boiled.

Raw and Sous-Vide-Cooked Red Cardoon Stalks (Cynara cardunculus L. var. altilis DC): (Poly)phenol Bioaccessibility, Anti-inflammatory Activity in the Gastrointestinal Tract, and Prebiotic Activity

The in vitro anti-inflammatory and prebiotic activity and the content and profile of bioaccessible (poly)phenols and catabolites of raw and sous-vide-cooked red cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L. var. altilis DC) were investigated during gastrointestinal (GI) digestion. Raw cardoon after in vitro GI digestion had 0.7% bioaccessible (poly)phenols, which protected against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation by counteracting IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 secretions in differentiated Caco-2 cells. Contrarily, GI-digested sous vide cardoon showed higher (poly)phenol bioaccessibility (59.8%) and exerted proinflammatory effects in Caco-2 cells. (Poly)phenols were highly metabolized during the first 8 h of in vitro fermentation, and nine catabolites were produced during 48 h of fermentation. Colonic-fermented raw and sous-vide-cooked cardoon did not show anti-inflammatory activity in HT-29 cells but presented potential prebiotic activity, comparable to the commercial prebiotic FOS, by stimulating health-promoting bacteria such as Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillus/Enterococcus spp. and by increasing the production of total SCFAs, especially acetate.

Protective Effects of Morus nigra and Its Phytochemicals against Hepatotoxicity: A Review of Preclinical Studies

BACKGROUND

Our liver has a variety of vital functions including removing poisons, storing energy, immunological roles, and secretory and excretory functions. It may face some kinds of diseases caused by viruses, hepatotoxic chemicals, drugs, alcohol, and inherited disorders. Oxidative stress and inflammation are in the core of mechanisms of liver damages induced by viruses or chemical agents.

SUMMARY

Morus nigra (M. nigra), generally known as black mulberry, exhibited wide-spectrum pharmacological effects including antidiabetic, antinociceptive, anticancer, and hepatoprotective activities. Different parts of this plant particularly the fruit and leaf have shown beneficial effects on hepatocytes in cell culture and animal models of liver damages induced by chemicals (e.g., CCl4), drugs (e.g., paracetamol), diet (e.g., high fat), diabetes, etc. The beneficial effects of M. nigra on the liver are attributed to the presence of considerable amounts of phenolic compounds such as anthocyanins, flavonols, and phenolic acids. The present review is aimed to focus on the hepatoprotective activities of M. nigra and its phytochemicals and the mechanisms responsible for these activities. Key Messages: The evidence reviewed in this study can help design clinical trials on M. nigra in patients with liver disorders and develop a hepatoprotective herbal medicine.

Morus alba L. Plant: Bioactive Compounds and Potential as a Functional Food Ingredient

Morus alba L. (M. alba) is a highly adaptable plant that is extensively incorporated in many traditional and Ayurveda medications. Various parts of the plant, such as leaves, fruits, and seeds, possess nutritional and medicinal value. M. alba has abundant phytochemicals, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavonols, anthocyanins, macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, and volatile aromatic compounds, indicating its excellent pharmacological abilities. M. alba also contains high nutraceutical values for protein, carbohydrates, fiber, organic acids, vitamins, and minerals, as well as a low lipid value. However, despite its excellent biological properties and nutritional value, M. alba has not been fully considered as a potential functional food ingredient. Therefore, this review reports on the nutrients and bioactive compounds available in M. alba leaves, fruit, and seeds; its nutraceutical properties, functional properties as an ingredient in foodstuffs, and a microencapsulation technique to enhance polyphenol stability. Finally, as scaling up to a bigger production plant is needed to accommodate industrial demand, the study and limitation on an M. alba upscaling process is reviewed.

Morus nigra L. extract prolongs survival of rats with hepatocellular carcinoma

Morus nigra is a rich source of anthocyanins, phytochemicals that have anticancer effects. This study aimed to investigate the effects of M. nigra extract (MNE) on diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Male Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned into four groups (n = 10): control, DEN, and DEN +100 or 400 mg/kg of MNE. After 4 months, the DEN group showed a significant mortality rate, hepatic lipid peroxidation, dysplastic nodules in the cirrhotic liver, and an increase of blood bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Also, the body weight gain, blood albumin and glucose, liver antioxidant capacity (thiol groups), and some hematological parameters (RBC, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and platelet) were significantly decreased in the DEN group. MNE significantly increased survival, reduced the size of HCC nodules, improved liver oxidant/antioxidant status, and prevented the above-mentioned changes in the blood (except ALP, glucose, and platelet). Quantitative real-time PCR showed that MNE decreased the expression of Wnt4 and β-catenin, while had no significant effect on PI3K, Akt, and PTEN expression. The MNE did not exhibit antiproliferative activity against HepG2 liver cancer cells. In conclusion, MNE exhibits a hepatoprotective effect through inhibiting oxidative stress and Wnt4/β-catenin pathway and therefore prolongs the survival of rats with HCC.

Bioaccessibility of Tudela artichoke (Cynara scolymus cv. Blanca de Tudela) (poly)phenols: the effects of heat treatment, simulated gastrointestinal digestion and human colonic microbiota

The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioaccessibility of (poly)phenolic compounds in Tudela artichokes (Cynara scolymus cv. Blanca de Tudela) after an in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and the effect of the human colonic microbiota. A total of 28 (poly)phenolic compounds were identified and quantified by LC-MS/MS in raw, boiled, sous vide and microwaved Tudela artichokes. Out of these, sixteen were phenolic acids, specifically caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs) and other minor hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, ten flavonoids belonging to the family of flavones (apigenin and luteolin derivatives) and two lignans (pinoresinol derivatives). Sous vide and microwaving caused mainly transesterification reactions of CQAs but maintained or even augmented the total (poly)phenolic contents of artichokes, while boiling decreased (poly)phenolic compounds by 25% due to leaching into the boiling water. Heat treatment exerted a positive effect on the bioaccessibility of (poly)phenols after gastrointestinal digestion. In raw artichokes, only 1.6% of the total (poly)phenolic compounds remained bioaccessible after gastrointestinal digestion, while in artichoke samples cooked by sous vide, boiled and microwaved, the percentage of bioaccessibility was 60.38%, 59.93% and 39,03% respectively. After fecal fermentation, 20 native (poly)phenolic compounds and 11 newly formed catabolites were quantified. 48 h of fecal fermentation showed that native (poly)phenols are readily degraded by colonic microbiota during the first 2 h of incubation. The colonic degradation of artichoke (poly)phenols follows a major pathway that involves the formation of caffeic acid, dihydrocaffeic acid, 3-(3'-hydroxyphenyl)propionic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid and phenylacetic acid, with 3-phenylpropionic acid being the most abundant end product. The catabolic pathways for colonic microbial degradation of artichoke CQAs are proposed.

Plants of the Spontaneous Flora with Beneficial Action in the Management of Diabetes, Hepatic Disorders, and Cardiovascular Disease

The current pharmacological agents advised for the management of diabetes as well as cardiovascular and hepatic diseases are subject to numerous studies for safety and efficacy. Therefore, it is worth looking into alternative therapeutic aids such as natural products of medicinal plants. By a broad review of in vitro and in vivo studies on the various dandelion, chicory, and mulberry extracts, this work highlights their bioactive compounds and therapeutic action when used as a prevention and management aid in public health such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hepatic disorders like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Natural products of dandelion leaves and root extracts can suppress the development of liver cancer, decrease insulin resistance, and suppress total triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Recent studies on mulberry leaves extracts indicated that they could decrease palmitic acid-induced lipotoxicity, increase total cholesterol and bile acid excretion, improve superoxide dismutase expression, and improve insulin resistance. Chicory root extracts boost satiety, reverse insulin resistance, and augment lipid metabolism thanks to their contents in chicoric acid, chlorogenic acid, and polysaccharides. Taraxacum officinale L., Morus nigra L., and Cichorium intybus L. present hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hypolipidemic, and hypoglycemic activities and are shown to be advantageous in the management of obesity, dyslipidemia, Type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases. These plants are commonly available in the European spontaneous flora and more attention could be paid to their natural products.

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Biosynthesis of Melatonin and Its Isomer in Mulberry

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaves and fruit are traditional Chinese medicinal materials with anti-inflammatory, immune regulatory, antiviral and anti-diabetic properties. Melatonin performs important roles in the regulation of circadian rhythms and immune activities. We detected, identified and quantitatively analyzed the melatonin contents in leaves and mature fruit from different mulberry varieties. Melatonin and three novel isoforms were found in the Morus plants. Therefore, we conducted an expression analysis of melatonin and its isomer biosynthetic genes and in vitro enzymatic synthesis of melatonin and its isomer to clarify their biosynthetic pathway in mulberry leaves. MaASMT4 and MaASMT20, belonging to class II of the ASMT gene family, were expressed selectively in mulberry leaves, and two recombinant proteins that they expressed catalyzed the conversion of N-acetylserotonin to melatonin and one of three isomers in vitro. Unlike the ASMTs of Arabidopsis and rice, members of the three ASMT gene families in mulberry can catalyze the conversion of N-acetylserotonin to melatonin. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying melatonin and its isomers biosynthesis and expands our knowledge of melatonin isomer biosynthesis.

Novel greener approached synthesis of polyacrylic nanoparticles for therapy and care of gestational diabetes

In the present medical diagnostic method for the therapeutic of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), it is problematic and difficult to release successful and secure release of drugs to the exact site. Hence, many researchers have been carried out to bring antidiabetic using modern method to release of drugs for their production. This research work focusses on to provide an assemblage to the recent growth in the field of Ramulus mori extract (RME) loaded on polyacrylic gold nanoparticle for antidiabetics with special highlighting on nursing of GDM. Keynote of gold nanoparticle: diabetes mellitus, nursing, insulin, antidiabetic, drugs, and new system for drug delivery. Rat is used to test the drug delivery system. In vivo examination was not prepared seldom including in this research paper. This research investigation could be a new avenue for the development of drug delivery system of GDM.

Dietary supplementation of black mulberry (Morus nigra) syrup improves the growth performance, innate immune response, antioxidant status, gene expression responses, and disease resistance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

The present study investigated the effects of black mulberry (Morus nigra) syrup supplementation on growth performance, hematological, serum biochemical, innate immune parameters, immune and antioxidant related gene expression responses, and disease resistance of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Five isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were formulated to contain black mulberry syrup at levels of 0%, 0.75%, 1.5%, 2.0%, and 3.0%. Fish were fed experimental diets for 60 days. Dietary black mulberry syrup increased activities of serum lysozyme, myeloperoxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase, and increased the expression levels of immune-related genes (interleukin 1, beta, tumor necrosis factor, immunoglobulin M, interferon gamma and heat shock protein 70) in the spleen and antioxidant-related genes (superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase) in the liver of fish fed especially with 1.5%, 2.0%, and 3.0% black mulberry syrup supplemented diets. Furthermore, at 2.0% incorporation level, growth performance increased. The findings of the present study indicate that Nile tilapia fed with diet containing 2.0% black mulberry might be adequate to improve the growth performance, innate immune parameters, antioxidant related gene expression responses, and disease resistance against Aeromonas veronii.

Detection of ripeness grades of berries using an electronic nose

The estimation of ripeness is a significant section of quality determination since maturity at harvest can affect sensory and storage properties of fruits. A possible tactic for defining the grade of ripeness is sensing the aromatic volatiles released by fruit using electronic nose (e-nose). For detection of the five ripeness grades of berries (whiteberry and blackberry), the e-nose machine was designed and fabricated. Artificial neural networks (ANN), principal components analysis (PCA), and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were applied for pattern recognition of array sensors. The best structure (10-11-5) can classify the samples in five classes in ANN analysis with a precision of 100% and 88.3% for blackberry and whiteberry, respectively. Also, PCA analysis characterized 97% and 93% variance in the blackberry and whiteberry, respectively. The least correct classification for whiteberry was observed in the LDA method.

Identification of Polyphenolic Compounds in Edible Wild Fruits Grown in the North-West of Italy by Means of HPLC-DAD-ESI HRMS

The popularity of edible wild fruits has increased in industrialized countries due to their composition and positive effects. The aim of this study has been to characterize the polyphenolics and anthocyanins of black mulberry (Morus nigra L.), cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.), elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.), hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna L.), lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) and rose hip (Rosa canina L.) harvested in the north-west of Italy by means of HPLC-DAD-ESI HRMS in positive ion mode. Although there is an abundant amount of literature related to the polyphenolics of cultivated fruit, a new type of comparison has here been conducted between wild and cultivated fruits on their polyphenolic content. The HPLC-DAD-ESI HRMS method has detected 64 different polyphenolic molecules and it can be used to perform qualitative and quantitative analyses. Furthermore, the cornelian cherry and elderberry samples showed the highest polyphenolic compound levels. The quercetin glycosylated compounds showed the highest percentage of flavonols in most of the analyzed wild fruits.

Black mulberry fruit extract alleviates streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy in rats: targeting TNF-α inflammatory pathway

OBJECTIVES

This study was designed to investigate the effect of Morus nigra fruit extract in retarding the progression of diabetic nephropathy in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

Diabetic male Wistar rats were injected with black mulberry fruit extract (BMFE) at doses of 150 and 300 mg/kg body weight. After 4 weeks, microalbuminuria was estimated in addition to serum concentrations of glucose, insulin, creatinine and albumin.

KEY FINDINGS

The study revealed a significant amelioration of all the measured parameters in diabetic animals. In addition, MDA, lipid peroxide levels and catalase activity were also improved. The histopathological examination of kidney tissues revealed significant improvement of the pathological changes and glomerular sclerosis in diabetic rats treated with BMFE. Treated rats showed downregulation of TNF-α, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and fibronectin mRNA expression.

CONCLUSION

The ameliorative effect of BMFE on diabetic nephropathy is not only through its potent antioxidant and hypoglycaemic effects but also through its downregulation of TNF-α, VCAM-1 and fibronectin mRNA expression in renal tissues of diabetic-treated rats. Therefore, BMFE as dietary supplement could be a promising agent in improving diabetic nephropathy.

Phenolic Acids of Plant Origin-A Review on Their Antioxidant Activity In Vitro (O/W Emulsion Systems) Along with Their in Vivo Health Biochemical Properties

Nature has generously offered a wide range of herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, mint, basil) rich in many polyphenols and other phenolic compounds with strong antioxidant and biochemical properties. This paper focuses on several natural occurring phenolic acids (caffeic, carnosic, ferulic, gallic, p-coumaric, rosmarinic, vanillic) and first gives an overview of their most common natural plant sources. A summary of the recently reported antioxidant activities of the phenolic acids in o/w emulsions is also provided as an in vitro lipid-based model system. Exploring the interfacial activity of phenolic acids could help to further elucidate their potential health properties against oxidative stress conditions of biological membranes (such as lipoproteins). Finally, this review reports on the latest literature evidence concerning specific biochemical properties of the examined phenolic acids.