Effects of elicitation on bioactive compounds and biological activities of sprouts

The nutritional profile of chia seeds and sprouts: tailoring germination practices for enhancing health benefits-a comprehensive review

Chia seeds have gained significant attention due to their unique composition and potential health benefits, including high dietary fibers, omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and phenolic compounds. These components contribute to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects, as well as their ability to improve glucose metabolism and dyslipidemia. Germination is recognized as a promising strategy to enhance the nutritional value and bioavailability of chia seeds. Chia seed sprouts have been found to exhibit increased essential amino acid content, elevated levels of dietary fiber and total phenols, and enhanced antioxidant capability. However, there is limited information available concerning the dynamic changes of bioactive compounds during the germination process and the key factors influencing these alterations in biosynthetic pathways. Additionally, the influence of various processing conditions, such as temperature, light exposure, and duration, on the nutritional value of chia seed sprouts requires further investigation. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the nutritional profile of chia seeds and the dynamic changes that occur during germination. Furthermore, the potential for tailored germination practices to produce chia sprouts with personalized nutrition, targeting specific health needs, is also discussed.

Phytochemical Fingerprint of Chia Sprouts Grown Under Chemical Elicitation with Salicylic Acid and Hydrogen Peroxide

Chia seeds (CS) and sprouts are rich sources of phenolic compounds and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). We hypothesized that the application of chemical stressors, such as salicylic acid (SA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), would induce changes in the polyphenol and fatty acid profile of chia sprouts, leading to an increase in their nutraceutical potential. This study aimed to assess the effect of non-elicited (NE) and chemically elicited (CE with 1-mM SA and 20-mM H2O2) sprouting on the polyphenol and fatty acid (FA) profiles of chia through high-resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and chemometric analyses. NE and CE chia sprouts showed increased content and diversity of polyphenols compared to the CS but with lower content of FA. Interestingly, rosmarinic acid was the major polyphenol identified in CS and was increased about 4-fold in all chia sprouts, whereas the major PUFA of CS, α-linolenic acid, was reduced by 39%. Regarding the chemical elicitation, the multivariate analyses indicated that SA-elicited chia sprouts were characterized by their high content of most polyphenols, mainly flavones and isoflavones, as well as a high antioxidant capacity, whereas H2O2-elicited chia sprouts were differentiated by protects their PUFA composition and seedling growth parameters. These results demonstrate that the chemical elicitation with SA and H2O2 represents a promising approach for improving sprouts' nutraceutical quality and could be used in further research to develop strategies for agriculture and food production.

Microgreens on the rise: Expanding our horizons from farm to fork

Escalating public health concerns necessitate innovative approaches to food sources. Microgreens, nutrient-rich seedlings of vegetables and herbs, have gained recognition as functional foods. This review explores the evolution of microgreens, cultivation methods, biochemical changes during germination, nutritional content, health benefits, and commercial significance. Comprehensive studies have demonstrated that microgreens have an elevated level of various nutrients. Further, in vitro and in vivo research validated their antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and antidiabetic properties. Microgreens, termed "desert food," show promise for sustainable food production in climate-vulnerable regions. This paper synthesizes recent research on microgreens, addressing challenges and gaps in understanding their nutritional content and health benefits. It contributes valuable insights for future research, fostering sustainable agriculture and enhancing understanding of microgreens in human health and nutrition.

Nutritional composition of quinoa leafy greens: An underutilized plant-based food with the potential of contributing to current dietary trends

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) leafy greens (QLGs) are plant-based foods of high nutritional value that have been scarcely studied. In this work, the nutritional and functional composition of three QLGs varieties was evaluated. A protein content higher than 35 g 100 g-1 dw with a well-balanced essential amino acid composition was found making them a good source of vegetable protein. In addition, elevated contents of dietary fibre and minerals, higher than those detected in quinoa seeds and other leafy vegetables, were found. The lipid profile showed higher contents of linoleic (C18:2, ω6) (20.2 %) and linolenic acids (C18:3, ω3) (52.8 %) with low ω6/ ω3 ratios (∼0.4/1). A total sugar content <1 g 100 g-1 dw was found for all varieties tested, lower than that obtained in seeds. The saponin content varied between 0.76 and 0.87 %. Also, high values of total phenolic compounds (969.8-1195.4 mg gallic acid 100 g-1), mainly hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids, and great antioxidant activities (7.64-8.90 g Trolox kg-1) were found. Multivariate analysis here used allowed us to classify the samples according to the quinoa variety evaluated, and the sequential stepwise multiple regression applied revealed that the PUFA and sucrose contents negatively influenced the protein content while the palmitic acid content affected positively this parameter. Overall, this study shows that QLGs are promising nutritious and functional plant-based foods supporting the necessity of promoting their cultivation, commercialization, and consumption.

Elicitation with hydrogen peroxide promotes growth, phenolic-enrichment, antioxidant activity and nutritional values of two hydroponic lettuce genotypes

Dietary vegetables rich in bioactive compounds are major responsible for promoting human health. Herein, the effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), an important signaling compound, on growth and quality of two hydroponic lettuce genotypes was investigated. The maximum enhancement of growth traits was shown in lettuce elicited with 10 mmol/L H2O2, while 40 mmol/L H2O2 significantly reduced above growth traits. H2O2 elicitation increased pigment contents and photosynthetic process, which consequently caused enhancements of phenolic compounds, ascorbic acid, glutathione, carotenoids, soluble sugars, free amino acids, soluble protein, minerals, and antioxidant capacity, while above alterations appeared in a genotype-dependent manner. The phenolic accumulation was correlated with improved activity of phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and expression levels of genes related to phenolic biosynthesis, including PAL, chalcone synthase, flavanone 3-hydroxylase, dihydroflavonol-4 reductase, and UDP-glucose: flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase. Therefore, elicitation with H2O2 is a promising strategy to develop lettuce with high bioactive compounds and biomass.

Unlocking the Potential of Sprouted Cereals, Pseudocereals, and Pulses in Combating Malnutrition

Due to the global rise in food insecurity, micronutrient deficiency, and diet-related health issues, the United Nations (UN) has called for action to eradicate hunger and malnutrition. Grains are the staple food worldwide; hence, improving their nutritional quality can certainly be an appropriate approach to mitigate malnutrition. This review article aims to collect recent information on developing nutrient-dense grains using a sustainable and natural process known as "sprouting or germination" and to discuss novel applications of sprouted grains to tackle malnutrition (specifically undernutrition). This article discusses applicable interventions and strategies to encourage biochemical changes in sprouting grains further to boost their nutritional value and health benefits. It also explains opportunities to use spouted grains at home and in industrial food applications, especially focusing on domestic grains in regions with prevalent malnutrition. The common challenges for producing sprouted grains, their future trends, and research opportunities have been covered. This review article will benefit scientists and researchers in food, nutrition, and agriculture, as well as agrifood businesses and policymakers who aim to develop nutrient-enriched foods to enhance public health.

Light means power: harnessing light spectrum and UV-B to enhance photosynthesis and rutin levels in microtomato plants

Urban vertical agriculture with lighting system can be an alternative green infrastructure to increase local food production irrespective of environmental and soil conditions. In this system, light quality control can improve the plant physiological performance, well as induce metabolic pathways that contribute to producing phenolic compounds important to human health. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of RBW (red, blue and white) and monochromatic (red and blue; R and B, respectively) light associated or not with UV-B on photosynthetic performance and phenolic compound production in microtomato fruits cultivated via vertical agriculture. The experimental design adopted was completely randomized, with six replicates illuminated with 300 µmol·m-2·s-1 light intensities (RBW, RBW + UV, B, B + UV, R, and R + UV), 12 h photoperiod, and 3.7 W·m-2 UV-B irradiation for 1 h daily for the physiological evaluations. Twenty-six days after the installation, gas exchange, chlorophyll a fluorescence and nocturnal breathing were evaluated. Fruits in different ripening stages (green, orange, and red) were collected from microtomato plants grown under with different light qualities, to evaluate the physiological performance. The identification and quantification of the phenolic compound rutin was also performed to investigate their metabolic response. This study identified that plants grown under B + UV had high photosynthetic rates (A=11.57 µmol·m-2·s-1) and the fruits at all maturation stages from plants grown under B and B + UV had high rutin content. Meanwhile, the activation of suppressive mechanisms was necessary in plants grown under R because of the high nocturnal respiration and unregulated quantum yield of the non-photochemical dissipation of the photosystem II. These results highlight the importance of selecting light wavelength for vegetable cultivation to produce fruits with a high content of specialized metabolites that influence color, flavor, and health promotion, which is of special interest to farmers using sustainable cropping systems.

Effects of Glucosinolate-Enriched Red Radish (Raphanus sativus) on In Vitro Models of Intestinal Microbiota and Metabolic Syndrome-Related Functionalities

The gut microbiota profile is determined by diet composition, and therefore this interaction is crucial for promoting specific bacterial growth and enhancing the health status. Red radish (Raphanus sativusL.) contains several secondary plant metabolites that can exert a protective effect on human health. Recent studies have shown that radish leaves have a higher content of major nutrients, minerals, and fiber than roots, and they have garnered attention as a healthy food or supplement. Therefore, the consumption of the whole plant should be considered, as its nutritional value may be of greater interest. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effects of glucosinolate (GSL)-enriched radish with elicitors on the intestinal microbiota and metabolic syndrome-related functionalities by using an in vitro dynamic gastrointestinal system and several cellular models developed to study the GSL impact on different health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol metabolism, insulin resistance, adipogenesis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The treatment with red radish had an influence on short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) production, especially on acetic and propionic acid and many butyrate-producing bacteria, suggesting that consumption of the entire red radish plant (leaves and roots) could modify the human gut microbiota profile toward a healthier one. The evaluation of the metabolic syndrome-related functionalities showed a significant decrease in the gene expression of endothelin, interleukin IL-6, and cholesterol transporter-associated biomarkers (ABCA1 and ABCG5), suggesting an improvement of three risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. The results support the idea that the use of elicitors on red radish crops and its further consumption (the entire plant) may contribute to improving the general health status and gut microbiota profile.

Inhibition of α-Amylase, α-Glucosidase, Pancreatic Lipase, 15-Lipooxygenase and Acetylcholinesterase Modulated by Polyphenolic Compounds, Organic Acids, and Carbohydrates of Prunus domestica Fruit

This work aimed to establish the content of phenolic compounds, carbohydrates, and organic acids and to determine their potential to inactivate α-amylase, α-glucosidase, pancreatic lipase, 15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and antioxidant activity (ABTS^o+ and FRAP) in 43 Prunus domestica cultivars. We identified 20 phenolic compounds, including, in the order of abundance, polymeric procyanidins, flavan-3-ols, phenolic acids, flavonols, and anthocyanins. The total content of phenolic compounds varied depending on the cultivar and ranged from 343.75 to 1419 mg/100 g d.w. The cultivars of Ś2, Ś11, and Ś16 accumulated the greatest amounts of polyphenols, while in cvs. Ś42, Ś35, and Ś20 polyphenols were the least abundant. The highest antioxidant potential of 7.71 (ABTS^o+) and 13.28 (FRAP) mmoL Trolox/100 g d.w. was confirmed for cv. Ś11. P. domestica fruits showed inhibitory activity toward α-amylase (2.63-61.53), α-glucosidase (0.19-24.07), pancreatic lipase (0.50-8.20), and lipoxygenase (15-LOX; 4.19-32.67), expressed as IC₅₀ (mg/mL). The anti-AChE effect was stronger than the anti-BuChE one. Cv. Ś3 did not inhibit AChE activity, while cv. Ś35 did not inhibit BuChE. Thanks to the abundance of biologically active compounds, P. domestica offers several health-promoting benefits and may prevent many diseases. For these reasons, they are worth introducing into a daily diet.

Bioactive Compounds, Antioxidant Activities, and HPLC Analysis of Nine Edible Sprouts in Cambodia

The non-nutritional health benefits of sprouts are unconfirmed. Thus, nine sprout methanolic extracts were tested for phytoconstituents and antioxidant activity. The TPC, TCC, TFC, TAC, and TALC were measured. ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging and ferric-reducing antioxidant power assays were used to assess the antioxidant activity. HPLC detected gallic acid, vanillin, syringic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and rutin in the extracts. The sprout extracts contained six compounds, with caffeic acid being the most abundant. Gallic acid, syringic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, vanillin, and rutin were highest in soybean, black sesame, mustard, sunflower, white radish, and black sesame sprouts, respectively. Sunflower sprouts had the highest level of TCC while soybean sprouts had the highest level of TFC, Taiwanese morning glory had the highest level of TPC, mustard sprouts had the highest level of TALC, and black sesame sprouts had the highest level of TAC. Taiwanese morning glories scavenged the most DPPH and ABTS radicals. Colored and white radish sprouts had similar ferric-reducing antioxidant power. Antioxidation mechanisms varied by compound. Our findings demonstrated that sprouts have biological effects, and their short time for mass production offers an alternative food source for health benefits, and that they are useful for future research development of natural products and dietary supplements.

Effect of Biotic Elicitors on the Growth, Antioxidant Activity and Metabolites Accumulation in In Vitro Propagated Shoots of Pueraria tuberosa

Pueraria tuberosa contains a wide range of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, alkaloids, and phytosterols, which make it valuable to the pharmaceutical and food industries. Elicitor compounds trigger the defense mechanisms in plants and are widely used to increase the yield of bioactive molecules in in vitro cultures. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different concentrations of biotic elicitors such as yeast extract (YE), pectin (PEC), and alginate (ALG) on growth, antioxidant activity, and metabolite accumulation in in vitro propagated shoots of P. tuberosa. The elicitors applied to shoot cultures of P. tuberosa significantly increased biomass (shoot number, fresh weight, and dry weight), and metabolites such as protein, carbohydrates, chlorophyll, total phenol (TP), and total flavonoid (TF) contents, as well as antioxidant activity compared to untreated control. Biomass, TP, and TF contents, as well as antioxidant activity, were most significant in cultures treated with 100 mg/L PEC. In contrast, chlorophyll, protein, and carbohydrate increased most in cultures treated with 200 mg/L ALG. Application of 100 mg/L of PEC led to the accumulation of high amounts of isoflavonoids including puerarin (220.69 μg/g), daidzin (2935.55 μg/g), genistin (5612 μg/g), daidzein (479.81 μg/g), and biochanin-A (111.511 μg/g) as analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Total isoflavonoids content of 100 mg/L PEC treated shoots was obtained as 9359.56 μg/g, 1.68-fold higher than in vitro propagated shoots without elicitors (5573.13 μg/g) and 2.77-fold higher than shoots of the mother plant (3380.17 μg/g). The elicitor concentrations were optimized as 200 mg/L YE, 100 mg/L PEC, and 200 mg/L ALG. Overall, this study showed that the application of different biotic elicitors resulted in better growth, antioxidant activity, and accumulation of metabolites in P. tuberosa, which could lead to obtaining phytopharmaceutical advantages in the future.

Analysis of Phenolic Compounds in Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) Sprouts Modified with Probiotic Yeast

Buckwheat sprouts are a source of various nutrients, e.g., antioxidant flavonoids, which have a positive effect on human health. This study analyzed the content of phenolic compounds and assessed their impact on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and dietary fiber in modified buckwheat sprouts. For this purpose, the buckwheat seeds were modified by adding Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii. The modified buckwheat sprouts showed a higher content of total phenol compounds (1526 µg/g d.w.) than the control sprouts (951 µg/g d.w.) and seeds (672 µg/g d.w.). As a consequence, a higher antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory effect were noted. Probiotic-rich sprouts also had the highest content of total dietary fiber and its soluble fraction. A correlation between phenolic compounds and the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as dietary fiber, was shown. The interaction between dietary fiber and phenolic compounds affects the bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of phenolic compounds in food. The introduction of probiotic yeast into the sprouts had a positive effect on increasing their nutritional value, as well as their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. As a consequence, the nutraceutical potential of the raw material changed, opening a new direction for the use of buckwheat sprouts, e.g., in industry.

Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Different Vegetable Sprouts and Their Potential Role in the Formulation of Functional Foods against Various Disorders: A Literature-Based Review

In this review, we discuss the advantages of vegetable sprouts in the development of food products as well as their beneficial effects on a variety of disorders. Sprouts are obtained from different types of plants and seeds and various types of leafy, root, and shoot vegetables. Vegetable sprouts are enriched in bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, antioxidants, and vitamins. Currently, different conventional methods and advanced technologies are used to extract bioactive compounds from vegetable sprouts. Due to some issues in traditional methods, increasingly, the trend is to use recent technologies because the results are better. Applications of phytonutrients extracted from sprouts are finding increased utility for food processing and shelf-life enhancement. Vegetable sprouts are being used in the preparation of different functional food products such as juices, bread, and biscuits. Previous research has shown that vegetable sprouts can help to fight a variety of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Furthermore, in the future, more research is needed that explores the extraordinary ways in which vegetable sprouts can be incorporated into green-food processing and preservation for the purpose of enhancing shelf-life and the formation of functional meat products and substitutes.

Effect of stress on germination of djulis (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz.) sprouts: a natural alternative to enhance the betacyanin and phenolic compounds

BACKGROUND

Germination is regarded as a natural method for improving the bioavailability of seed nutrients against stress, which enhances the accumulation of bioactive compounds. The present study aimed to determine the effect of stress (H₂ O₂ , catechin, gallic acid, tyrosine, and NaCl) during germination of djulis (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz.) sprouts on betacyanin, phytochemicals, and antioxidant capacities.

RESULTS

The betacyanin and antioxidant activities of the djulis sprouts increased significantly compared to seeds. The lowest betacyanin was found in NaCl-stressed sprouts. The djulis sprouts reported the presence of celosianins I and II (50.72%), which was absent in seeds. Hydroxycinnamic acids accounted for > 60% of the total phenolic compounds in sprouts, whereas rutin predominated in the seeds.

CONCLUSION

Germination under stress may represent an effective natural method for improving the bioactive potential of sprouts, an alternative to use seeds, in the development of bioactive compounds-enriched healthy foods that are good for public health. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of Wheat Crop Nitrogen Fertilization Schedule on the Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity of Sprouts and Wheatgrass Obtained from Offspring Grains

This work was aimed at investigating the effects of rate and timing of nitrogen fertilization applied to a maternal wheat crop on phytochemical content and antioxidant activity of edible sprouts and wheatgrass obtained from offspring grains. We hypothesized that imbalance in N nutrition experienced by the mother plants translates into transgenerational responses on seedlings obtained from the offspring seeds. To this purpose, we sprouted grains of two bread wheat cultivars (Bologna and Bora) grown in the field under four N fertilization schedules: constantly well N fed with a total of 300 kg N ha⁻¹; N fed only very early, i.e., one month after sowing, with 60 kg N ha⁻¹; N fed only late, i.e., at initial shoot elongation, with 120 kg N ha⁻¹; and unfertilized control. We measured percent germination, seedling growth, vegetation indices (by reflectance spectroscopy), the phytochemical content (total phenols, phenolic acids, carotenoids, chlorophylls), and the antioxidant activity (by gold nanoparticles photometric assay) of extracts in sprout and wheatgrass obtained from the harvested seeds. Our main finding is that grains obtained from crops subjected to late N deficiency produced wheatgrass with much higher phenolic content (as compared to the other N treatments), and this was observed in both cultivars. Thus, we conclude that late N deficiency is a stressing condition which elicits the production of phenols. This may help counterbalance the loss of income related to lower grain yield in crops subjected to such an imbalance in N nutrition.

The Effects of Processing on Bioactive Compounds and Biological Activities of Sorghum Grains

Sorghum is ranked the fifth most commonly used cereal and is rich in many kinds of bioactive compounds. Food processing can affect the accumulation and decomposition of bioactive compounds in sorghum grains, and then change the biological activities of sorghum grains. The present review aims to analyze the effects of processing technologies on bioactive compounds and the biological activities of sorghum grains. Decortication reduces the total phenols, tannins, and antioxidant activity of sorghum grains. The effects of thermal processes on bioactive compounds and potential biological activities of sorghum grains are complicated due to thermal treatment method and thermal treatment conditions, such as extrusion cooking, which has different effects on the bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity of sorghum due to extrusion conditions, such as temperature and moisture, and food matrices, such as whole grain and bran. Emerging thermal processes, such as microwave heating and high-pressure processing, could promote the release of bound phenolic substances and procyanidins, and are recommended. Biological processes can increase the nutritive and nutraceutical quality and reduce antinutritional compounds, except for soaking which reduces water-soluble compounds in sorghum.

Uses of ionic liquids to obtain bioactive compounds: insights from the main international regulations for technological applications

Ionic liquids (IL) are innovative alternative solvents to recover bioactive compounds from plant-based sources to replace toxic volatile organic solvents (VOS). ILs are tailored-made solvents with chemical and thermal stabilities, nonvolatile and noninflammable. Although ILs are versatile, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions, the European Commission (EC) has no current regulation to approve extracts obtained with ILs to be applied in foods. Herein, this paper aims to assess the overview of ILs, regulamentation, applications, and its toxic effects, to be used as solvents for extract different bioactive compounds. Studies have suggested novel applications for ILs, such as 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate and others, to obtain bioactive compounds, for instance phenolic compounds, lignans, alkaloids, carotenoids, polysaccharides, using modern approaches as ultrasound and microwave-assisted extraction. New IL methods increase the efficiency of recovering target compounds and decrease the extraction time and VOS consumption regarding the traditional techniques. Furthermore, to promote the large-scale use of IL in foods, it is essential to investigate individually the toxicity of each IL used in the extraction processes, aiming to obtain a GRAS stamp, due to the currently lack of regulamentation.

In Vitro Oxidative Stress Threatening Maize Pollen Germination and Cytosolic Ca2+ Can Be Mitigated by Extracts of Emmer Wheatgrass Biofortified with Selenium

In this work, we studied the effects of in vitro oxidative stress applied by H₂O₂ to maize pollen germination and cytosolic Ca²⁺, taken as an experimental model to test the biological activity of extracts of emmer (Triticum turgidum L. spp. dicoccum (Schrank ex Shubler) Thell.) wheatgrass obtained from grains sprouted with distilled water, or salinity (50 mM) or selenium (45 mg L^-1 of Na₂SeO₃). Wheatgrass extracts were obtained in two ways: by direct extraction in methanol, which represented the free phenolic fraction of extracts (Ef), and by residual content after alkaline digestion, which made it possible to obtain extracts with the bound fraction (Eb). Comparative tests on maize pollen were carried out by differently combining H₂O₂ and either wheatgrass extracts or pure phenolic acids (4-HO benzoic, caffeic, p-coumaric and salicylic). The cytosolic Ca²⁺ of maize pollen was influenced by either H₂O₂ or pure phenolic acids or Ef, but not by Eb. The negative effect of H₂O₂ on maize pollen germination and cytosolic Ca²⁺ was mitigated by Ef and, slightly, by Eb. The extent of the biological response of Ef depended on the sprouting conditions (i.e., distilled water, salinity or selenium). The extracts of Se-biofortified wheatgrass were the most effective in counteracting the oxidative stress.

Chia seeds and chemical-elicited sprouts supplementation ameliorates insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hepatic steatosis in obese rats

Chia seeds (CS) and sprouts are rich in bioactive compounds. This study aimed to assess the effects of germination and chemical elicitation (salicylic acid [SA]; hydrogen peroxide [H₂ O₂ ]) on proximate chemical, total phenolics compounds (TPC), non-extractable proanthocyanidins (NEPA), and carotenoids content of chia sprouts; besides, the effects of their supplementation on obesity-associated complications in rats fed with high-fat and fructose diet (HFFD) were evaluated. Protein, carbohydrate, TPC, NEPA, and carotenoids content were higher in sprouts than CS; elicitation enhanced TPC and carotenoids compared to non-elicited (NE) sprouts. CS, NE, and elicited chia sprouts ameliorated insulin resistance and dyslipidemia at the same level in HFFD-fed rats. NE and SA-chia sprouts exerted the biggest reduction in hepatic triglycerides, which could be partially related to inhibition of pancreatic lipase activity. In addition, SA elicitation induced the greatest effect on insulin levels and corporal weight. CS and their sprouts decreased obesity and its complication, mainly SA-elicited sprouts. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The growing epidemic of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and obesity has led to the search for prevention and treatment through lifestyle changes, including the consumption of foods rich in bioactive compounds, such as seeds and their sprouts. Since sprouts contain higher concentrations of bioactive compounds and nutrients than seed, germination is a natural alternative to produce ready-to-eat functional foods. Chemical elicitation is a strategy to increase even more the bioactivity of sprouts. CS has been recognized for its beneficial health effects ameliorating dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. This study demonstrates that elicitation, with SA and H₂ O₂ , during germination of CS, increases the nutrient and phytochemical content of sprouts, with beneficial effects on body weight gain, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and prevention of NAFLD progression in diet-induced obese rats. Therefore, chia sprouts, natural and elicited, may be used as potential nutraceutical foods for the prevention and treatment of obesity and its complications.

Multi-Functional Development and Utilization of Rapeseed: Comprehensive Analysis of the Nutritional Value of Rapeseed Sprouts

Rapeseed is the third largest oil crop in the world and the largest oil crop in China. The multi-functional development and utilization of rapeseed is an effective measure for the high-quality development of rapeseed industry in China. In this study, several basic nutrients of eight rapeseed sprouts and five bean sprouts (3–5 varieties each) were determined, including sugar, crude protein, crude fiber, vitamin E, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids, and glucosinolates. Data analysis revealed that compared with bean sprouts, rapeseed sprouts were nutritionally balanced and were richer in active nutrients such as glucose, magnesium, selenium, vitamin E, and glucosinolate. Moreover, rapeseed sprouts exhibited reasonable amino acid composition and abundant unsaturated fatty acids (accounting for 90.32% of the total fatty acids). All these results indicated the potential of rapeseed sprout as a functional vegetable. Subsequently, three dominant nutrients including vitamin E, glucosinolate, and selenium were investigated in seeds and sprouts of 44 B. napus L. varieties. The results showed that germination raised the ratio of α-tocopherol/γ-tocopherol from 0.53 in seeds to 9.65 in sprouts, greatly increasing the content of α-tocopherol with the strongest antioxidant activity among the eight isomers of vitamin E. Furthermore, germination promoted the conversion and accumulation of glucosinolate components, especially, glucoraphanin with strong anti-cancer activity with its proportion increased from 1.06% in seeds to 1.62% in sprouts. In addition, the contents of selenium, vitamin E, and glucosinolate in rapeseed sprouts were highly correlated with those in seeds. Furthermore, these three dominant nutrients varied greatly within B. napus varieties, indicating the great potential of rapeseed sprouts to be further bio-enhanced. Our findings provide reference for the multi-purpose development and utilization of rapeseed, lay a theoretical foundation for the development of rapeseed sprout into a functional vegetable, and provide a novel breeding direction.

Strategies of Elicitation to Enhance Bioactive Compound Content in Edible Plant Sprouts: A Bibliometric Study

Vegetable sprouts are a food source that presents high content of bioactive compounds which can also be enhanced through elicitation mechanisms. To better understand the scientific production and research trends on this topic, a bibliometric analysis by means of the Web of Science database was carried out. The results showed significant growth in research on the elicitation of edible plants sprouts. The three most productive journals were the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, followed by Food Chemistry and LWT-Food Science and Technology. The co-occurrence of keyword analysis of the different authors showed that the main research topics in this domain were 'germination', 'antioxidant activity', 'sprouts', 'glucosinolates' and 'phenolics'. The countries with the highest number of scientific publications were China, followed by India and USA. The productivity patterns of the authors conformed to Lotka's law. This study provides an overview of research on elicitation to enrich bioactive compounds in sprouts, and the need to review and update the trends on this subject.

Elicitation: a new perspective into plant chemo-diversity and functional property

Sprouts are consumed as fresh foods or their flours can be added in processed products as determinants of sensory perception, product differentiation, and shelf life. Elicitation technique can be used to accumulate phytochemicals in plant sprouts thereby improving their functionality. This review summarized the recent state of knowledge on the use of elicitors to produce sprouts with improved functional properties. Elicitation using abiotic or biotic elicitors has been applied to increase the yield of sprout secondary metabolites (glucosinolates, aminobutyric acid, phenolic compounds), biological activities (antioxidant, anti-obesity, antidiabetic properties), and growth. Elicitors trigger the synthesis of plant metabolites by changing enzyme activities or gene expression related to the plant defence system. They also promote sprout growth by enhancing the levels of plant growth hormones. Elicitation is an effective method to produce sprouts with improved health benefits, and enhance their growth. Future studies are needed to identify early plant signaling pathways to fully understand elicitors' mechanisms on plant metabolites. Moreover, further investigation can be impetus in revealing the lower and upper limits of elicitor that can be applied in sprouts without compromising health and environmental safety.

Bioactive Compounds and Biological Activities of Sorghum Grains

Sorghum is the fifth most commonly used cereal worldwide and is a rich source of many bioactive compounds. We summarized phenolic compounds and carotenoids, vitamin E, amines, and phytosterols in sorghum grains. Recently, with the development of detection technology, new bioactive compounds such as formononetin, glycitein, and ononin have been detected. In addition, multiple in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that sorghum grains have extensive bio-logical activities, such as antioxidative, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiinflammatory, and antiobesity properties. Finally, with the establishment of sorghum phenolic compounds database, the bound phenolics and their biological activities and the mechanisms of biological activities of sorghum bioactive compounds using clinical trials may be researched.

Effect of Germination on Alfalfa and Buckwheat: Phytochemical Profiling by UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS, Bioactive Compounds, and In-Vitro Studies of Their Diabetes and Obesity-Related Functions

Germination can be used to enhance nutritional value and health functions of edible seeds. Sprouts are considered healthier than raw seeds because they are richer in the basic nutritional components (carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals) and also contain more bioactive components responsible for various biological activities. The effect of sprouting on the antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiobesity activities, and metabolite profiles of alfalfa and buckwheat seeds was investigated in this study. DPPH radical scavenging activity was highest in buckwheat sprouts followed by alfalfa sprout, buckwheat seed, and alfalfa seed, respectively. ABTS radical scavenging potential showed a similar trend as DPPH with buckwheat sprouts exerting the best scavenging capacity. Alfalfa sprout and buckwheat seed exhibited the highest percentage inhibitory activity of α-glucosidase (96.6 and 96.5%, respectively). Alfalfa sprouts demonstrated the strongest inhibitory activity against pancreatic lipase (57.12%) while alfalfa seed showed the highest advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation inhibitory potential (28.7%). Moreover, thirty-three (33) metabolites were characterized in the seed and sprout samples. Sprouts demonstrated a higher level of metabolites compared to raw seeds. Hence, depending on the type of seed and the target activity, sprouting is a good technique to alter the secondary metabolites and functional properties of edible seeds.

Chia Sprouts Elicitation with Salicylic Acid and Hydrogen Peroxide to Improve their Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Capacities In Vitro and the Antioxidant Status in Obese Rats

Elicitation is a biotechnological approach to improve phenolic compounds content and antioxidant properties of ready-to-eat functional foods. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical elicitation effects using salicylic acid (SA) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in optimized-germination conditions on seedling vigor, phenolic content, and their antioxidant capacities in vitro and serum and urine of Wistar obese rats. Optimized-germination conditions of 26.5 °C and 178 h produced a 64% of germination and a sprout length of 56 mm. Only, the elicitation with H₂O₂ (20 mM) enhanced the germination (75%) and H₂O₂ (10 and 20 mM) the sprout length (69 and 59 mm, respectively). In contrast, both elicitors enhanced phenolic contents, being more significant total phenolic compounds content for SA (1 and 2 mM), up to 65.5-73.5%. SA and H₂O₂ improved total flavonoids content (36.5-64.1%), ABTS (19.3-61.1%), and DPPH capacities (51-86%), depending on SA and H₂O₂ concentration, compared with non-elicited chia sprouts. The QUENCHER antioxidant capacities of elicited chia sprouts increased up to three times more than extracts capacities, principally Q-ABTS, which could be attributed to phenolic bounds to dietary fiber. Rats fed with a high-fat and fructose diet (HFFD) and supplemented with chia sprouts, especially 1-mM SA, improve the obesity-related oxidative stress through an increase of antioxidant capacities, using DPPH and ABTS test, on serum (70-118%) and urine samples (80-116%). These results suggest that chia sprouts elicited with 1-mM SA are a source of antioxidant compounds that can be used to decrease obesity related oxidative stress.

The Application of Fe-EDTA and Sodium Silicate Affects the Polyphenols Content in Broccoli and Radish Sprouts

The effects of elicitors on broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. Italica) and radish (Raphanus&nbsp;sativus L.) sprouts were evaluated. Seeds and then sprouts were soaked daily for 30 min over 6 days in water (control) or a mixture of FeEDTA and sodium silicate or sodium silicate alone. The contents of the flavonoids and phenolic acids (free, esters, and glycosides) were determined using HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. Phenolic compounds were released from the esters after acid hydrolysis and from the glycosides using alkaline hydrolysis. Quercetin, kaempferol, (‒)-epicatechin, naringenin, apigenin, and luteolin derivatives were found in broccoli and radish sprouts, while derivatives of iso-rhamnetin, orientin, and vitexin were not present at measurable levels. The flavonoid contents, especially derivatives of quercetin, were considerably higher in the broccoli sprouts than in the radish sprouts. The quantitatively major phenolic acid content in the sprouts of both species was found to be p-hydroxybenzoic acid. Its content in the radish sprouts was several times higher than in the broccoli sprouts. The total flavonoid content of broccoli sprouts was 507-734 µg/g DW, while that of the radish sprouts ranged from 155 µg/g DW to 211 µg/g DW. In contrast, total phenolic acids were higher in radish sprouts, ranging from 11,548 to 13,789 µg/g DW, while in broccoli sprouts, they ranged from 2652 to 4527 µg/g DW, respectively. These differences resulted radish sprouts having higher antioxidant activity compared to broccoli sprouts. The applied elicitors increased the content of the total phenolic acids and the antioxidant activity of radish and broccoli sprouts, while they decreased the level of the total flavonoids in broccoli sprouts.

Joint Biofortification of Plants with Selenium and Iodine: New Field of Discoveries

The essentiality of selenium (Se) and iodine (I) to human beings and the widespread areas of selenium and iodine deficiency determine the high significance of functional food production with high levels of these elements. In this respect, joint biofortification of agricultural crops with Se and I is especially attractive. Nevertheless, in practice this topic has raised many problems connected with the possible utilization of many Se and I chemical forms, different doses and biofortification methods, and the existence of wide species and varietal differences. The limited reports relevant to this subject and the multiplicity of unsolved questions urge the need for an adequate evaluation of the results obtained up-to-date, useful for developing further future investigations. The present review discusses the outcome of joint plant Se-I biofortification, as well as factors affecting Se and I accumulation in plants, paying special attention to unsolved issues. A particular focus has been given to the prospects of herb sprouts production enriched with Se and I, as well as the interactions between the latter microelements and arbuscular-mycorrhizal fungi (AMF).

Preharvest Nutrient Deprivation Reconfigures Nitrate, Mineral, and Phytochemical Content of Microgreens

While imparting gastronomic novelty and sensory delight, microgreens also constitute rudimentary leafy greens packed with nutrients and phytochemicals. As such, they comprise an upcoming class of functional foods. However, apart from bioactive secondary metabolites, microgreens also accumulate antinutritive agents such as nitrate, especially under conducive protected cultivation conditions. The current work examined nutrient deprivation before harvest (DBH), applied by replacing nutrient solution with osmotic water for six and twelve days, as a strategy for reducing microgreen nitrate levels in different species (lettuce, mustard, and rocket). The three species were sown on a peat-based substrate, cultivated in a controlled climate chamber, and harvested 18 days after sowing, when the first two true leaves emerged. DBH impact on major constituents of the secondary metabolome, mineral content, colorimetric, and yield traits was appraised. Nitrate and mineral content were determined through ion chromatography, phenolic composition through UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, and carotenoid composition through HPLC-DAD. Nutrient deprivation was effective in reducing nitrate content; however, effective treatment duration differed between species and decline was more precipitous in nitrate hyperaccumulating species such as rocket. Quercetin and kaempferol glycosides were the flavonol glycosides most abundant in brassicaceous microgreens, whereas lettuce microgreens were steeped in caffeoyl quinic acid. DBH interacted with species as it increased the total phenolic content of lettuce, decreased that of rocket, but did not affect mustard. Further research to link changes in phenolic composition to the sensory and in vivo bioactive profile of microgreens is warranted. Notably, brief (≤6 days) DBH can be applied across species with moderate or no impact on the phenolic, carotenoid, and mineral composition of microgreens. Brief DBH applications also have limited impact on microgreens' yield and colorimetric traits hence on the commercial value of the product. They can therefore be applied for reducing microgreen nitrate levels without significantly impacting key secondary metabolic constituents and their potential bioactive role.

Effect of exogenous methyl jasmonate on physiological and carotenoid composition of yellow maize sprouts under NaCl stress

Carotenoid content in maize sprouts can be increased by NaCl stress, although high NaCl concentrations negatively impact plant growth. The effects of exogenous methyl jasmonate (MeJA) on contents of carotenoid and antioxidant capacity of yellow maize sprouts under NaCl stress were investigated. Our results showed that treatments of NaCl both alone and combined with MeJA enhanced the carotenoid accumulation in maize sprouts. Moreover, the carotenoid biosynthesis related genes showed different expression patterns under addition of MeJA treatment. Additionally, the combined treatment led to significantly higher content of most carotenoids profiles and the addition of MeJA could alleviate the harmful effect caused by NaCl stress. Furthermore, the combined treatment improved antioxidant enzyme activities and radical scavenging capacity. The results implied that MeJA is kind of effective plant growth regulator for enhancing carotenoid accumulation in maize sprouts by up-regulating the expression levels of key genes involved in carotenoid biosynthetic pathway.

The Influence of Red Cabbage Extract Nanoencapsulated with Brassica Plasma Membrane Vesicles on the Gut Microbiome of Obese Volunteers

The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of the red cabbage extracts on the bioaccessibility of their isothiocyanates, and their effect on the intestinal microbiota using a dynamic model of human digestion treated with the gut microbiome of obese adults. The elicitation of red cabbage plants with methyl jasmonate (MeJA) duplicated the content of glucosinolates (GSLs) in the plant organs used for elaborating the encapsulated formula. The use of plasma membrane vesicles, according to a proper methodology and technology, showed a high retention of sulforaphane (SFN) and indol-3-carbinol (I3C) over the course of the 14-day digestion study. The microbiome was scarcely affected by the treatments in terms of microbiota composition or the Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio, but a 3 to 4-fold increase was observed in the production of butyric acid with the encapsulated extract treatment. Based on our pilot red cabbage extract study, the consumption of this extract, mainly encapsulated, may play a potential role in the management of obesity in adults.

Metabolite Profile of Cucurbitane-Type Triterpenoids of Bitter Melon (Fruit of Momordica charantia) and Their Inhibitory Activity against Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases Relevant to Insulin Resistance

Qualitative analysis of cucurbitane-type triterpenoids of bitter melon (fruit of Momordica charantia L.) using ultraperformance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry revealed 27 promising cucurbitane-type triterpenoids, and LC/MS-guided chemical analysis of M. charantia fruit extract led to the isolation and structural characterization of 22 cucurbitane-type triterpenoids (1-22), including 8 new cucurbitane-type triterpenoidal saponins, yeojoosides A-H (1-8). The structures of the new compounds (1-8) were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D NMR and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Their absolute configurations were assigned by quantum chemical electronic circular dichroism calculations, chemical reactions, and DP4+ analysis using gauge-including atomic orbital NMR chemical shift calculations. All isolated compounds (1-22) were examined for inhibitory activity against protein tyrosine phosphatases relevant to insulin resistance. Nine compounds (7, 8, 9, 11, 14, 15, 19, 20, and 21) showed selective inhibitory effects of over 70% against PTPN2. The present results suggested that these compounds would be potential antidiabetic agents.

Improving Polyphenolic Compounds: Antioxidant Activity in Chickpea Sprouts through Elicitation with Hydrogen Peroxide

Elicitation appears to be a promising alternative to enhance the bioactive compound content and biological activities of legume sprouts. Multi-response optimization by response surface methodology (RSM) with desirability function (DF) was used to optimize the elicitor concentration (hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)) and germination time in order to maximize total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoids content (TFC), and antioxidant activity (AOX) of chickpea sprouts. Chemical, antinutritional, and nutraceutical properties of optimized chickpea sprouts (OCS) were also determined. The predicted regression models developed were efficiently fitted to the experimental data. The results of the desirability function revealed that optimum attributes in chickpea sprouts can be achieved by the application of 30 mM H₂O₂ and 72 h of germination time, with global desirability value D = 0.893. These OCS had higher (p < 0.05) TPC (7.4%), total iso-flavonoids (16.5%), AOX (14.8%), and lower phytic acid (16.1%) and saponins (21.8%) compared to H₂O₂ non-treated chickpea sprouts. Optimized germination conditions slightly modified the flavonoid profile in chickpea; eight iso-flavonoids were identified in OCS, including formononetin and biochanin A, which were identified as the major compounds. Results from this study support elicitation with H₂O₂ as an effective approach to improve phytochemical content and antioxidant activity in chickpea sprouts.

Pulses' germination and fermentation: Two bioprocessing against hypertension by releasing ACE inhibitory peptides

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) is one of the main blood pressure regulators in the renin-angiotensin system leading to hypertension. Hypertension is known as the modern world disease which increases the risk of serious human health problems. Synthetic drugs and some natural compounds could treat this disease by binding to ACE and reducing its activity. Pulses, one of the legumes group, that are the rich in protein sources in the human diet, have several bioactive compounds with ACE inhibitory (ACE I) properties. However, several processes need to break down proteins and improve ACE I activity in foods. Germination and fermentation, known by bioprocessing, could make releasing bioactive peptides and polyphenols and exhibit ACE I and either other health properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-diabetic and anticancer activities. Various factors such as kind of selective culture, temperature, time and humidity affect these processes. This review summarizes relevant studies about the effect of pulses' germination and fermentation to produce ACE I activity compounds and also explains about main parameters affecting the health properties of these two bioprocessing to treat hypertension that could lead to the development of their application in pharmaceuticals instead of synthetic drugs.

Microorganisms and Biostimulants Impact on the Antioxidant Activity of Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) Sprouts

The study analyzes the influence of plant growth promoters and biological control agents on the chemical composition and antioxidant activity (AA) in the sprouts of buckwheat. The AA of cv. Kora sprouts was higher than cv. Panda, with 110.0 µM Fe²⁺/g (FRAP-Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power), 52.94 µM TRX (Trolox)/g (DPPH-1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), 182.7 µM AAE (Ascorbic Acid Equivalent)/g (Photochemiluminescence-PCL-ACW-Water-Soluble Antioxidant Capacity) and 1.250 µM TRX/g (PCL-ACL-Lipid-Soluble Antioxidant Capacity). The highest AA was found in the sprouts grown from seeds soaked in Ecklonia maxima extract and Pythium oligandrum (121.31 µM Fe²⁺/g (FRAP), 56.33 µM TRX/g (DPPH), 195.6 µM AAE/g (PCL-ACW) and 1.568 µM TRX/g (PCL-ACL). These values show that the antioxidant potential of buckwheat sprouts is essentially due to the predominant hydrophilic fraction of antioxidants. The AA of the sprouts was strongly correlated with total polyphenol content.

Microorganisms and Biostimulants Impact on the Antioxidant Activity of Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) Sprouts

The study analyzes the influence of plant growth promoters and biological control agents on the chemical composition and antioxidant activity (AA) in the sprouts of buckwheat. The AA of cv. Kora sprouts was higher than cv. Panda, with 110.0 µM Fe2+/g (FRAP-Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power), 52.94 µM TRX (Trolox)/g (DPPH-1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), 182.7 µM AAE (Ascorbic Acid Equivalent)/g (Photochemiluminescence-PCL-ACW-Water-Soluble Antioxidant Capacity) and 1.250 µM TRX/g (PCL-ACL-Lipid-Soluble Antioxidant Capacity). The highest AA was found in the sprouts grown from seeds soaked in Ecklonia maxima extract and Pythium oligandrum (121.31 µM Fe2+/g (FRAP), 56.33 µM TRX/g (DPPH), 195.6 µM AAE/g (PCL-ACW) and 1.568 µM TRX/g (PCL-ACL). These values show that the antioxidant potential of buckwheat sprouts is essentially due to the predominant hydrophilic fraction of antioxidants. The AA of the sprouts was strongly correlated with total polyphenol content.

Ultrasonic assisted phenolic elicitation and antioxidant potential of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) sprouts

Limited literature is available concerning the phenolic biosynthesis and antioxidative potential of common bean sprouts induced by ultrasound elicitation. In this study, common bean seeds were treated with ultrasound at different power (0, 180 and 360 W) and time (0, 30, 45 and 60 min) levels, before they were subjected to sprouting (24, 48, 72 and 96 h). Stress markers (H₂O₂, catalase and guaiacol peroxidase), activities of defense phenolic triggering enzymes (phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and tyrosine ammonia-lyase), phenolic contents (total phenolic acids, total flavonoids and anthocyanins) and antioxidant capacities (DPPH, ABTS and Fe²⁺ scavenging) were monitored. Results showed that, ultrasound elicitation (especially 360 W, 60 min) significantly increased accumulation of stress markers at 96 h of sprouting, leading to elevated activities of defense phenolic triggering enzymes, and final accumulation of phenolics and antioxidant capacities at significant levels compared to control. Ultrasound treatment at 360 W and 60 min reduced sprouting time by 60 h, compared to control. Results from principal component analysis clearly differentiated latter stages of sprouting and high ultrasound levels from other sprouting conditions as distinct treatments for the production of phenolic-rich common bean sprouts. Overall, results from this study indicated that elicitation with ultrasound can be a green and novel approach for producing phenolic-enriched common bean sprouts as an organic nutraceutical vegetable.

Use of elicitation in the cultivation of Bimi® for food and ingredients

BACKGROUND

Cruciferous foods rich in health-promoting metabolites are of particular interest to consumers as well as being a good source of bioactives-enriched ingredients. Several elicitors have been used to stimulate the biosynthesis and accumulation of secondary metabolites in foods; however, little is known about the response of new hybrid varieties, such as Bimi®, under field-crop production conditions. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the effect of salicylic acid (200 μmol L^-1 , SA), methyl jasmonate (100 μmol L^-1 , MeJA), and their combination on Bimi plant organs (inflorescences and aerial vegetative tissues - stems and leaves). For this, the composition of the glucosinolates present in the tissues was evaluated. Also, aqueous extracts of the plant material, obtained with different times of extraction with boiling water, were studied.

RESULTS

The results indicate that the combined treatment (SA + MeJA) significantly increased the content of glucosinolates in the inflorescences and that MeJA was the most effective elicitor in leaves. Regarding the aqueous extracts, the greatest amount of glucosinolates was extracted at 30 min - except for the leaves elicited with MeJA, for which 15 min was optimal.

CONCLUSION

The elicitation in the field enriched leaves in glucobrassicin (GB), 4-methoxyglucobrassicin (MGB), and neoglucobrassicin (NGB) and stems and inflorescences in glucoraphanin, 4-hydroxyglucobrassicin, GB, MGB, and NGB. In this way, this enhanced vegetable material favored the presence of bioactives in the extracts, which is of great interest regarding enriched foods and ingredients with added value obtained from them. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Sprouted Grains: A Comprehensive Review

In the last decade, there has been an increase in the use of sprouted grains in human diet and a parallel increase in the scientific literature dealing with their nutritional traits and phytochemical contents. This review examines the physiological and biochemical changes during the germination process, and the effects on final sprout composition in terms of macro- and micro-nutrients and bioactive compounds. The main factors affecting sprout composition are taken into consideration: genotype, environmental conditions experimented by the mother plant, germination conditions. In particular, the review deepens the recent knowledge on the possible elicitation factors useful for increasing the phytochemical contents. Microbiological risks and post-harvest technologies are also evaluated, and a brief summary is given of some important in vivo studies matching with the use of grain sprouts in the diet. All the species belonging to Poaceae (Gramineae) family as well as pseudocereals species are included.