Overexpression of the Anthocyanidin Synthase Gene in Strawberry Enhances Antioxidant Capacity and Cytotoxic Effects on Human Hepatic Cancer Cells

Uncovering fruit flavor and genetic diversity across diploid wild Fragaria species via comparative metabolomics profiling

Wild Fragaria resources exhibit extensive genetic diversity and desirable edible traits, such as high soluble solid content and flavor compounds. However, specific metabolites in different wild strawberry fruits remain unknown. In this study, we characterized 1008 metabolites covering 11 subclasses among 13 wild diploid resources representing eight species, including F. vesca, F. nilgerrensis, F. viridis, F. nubicola, F. pentaphylla, F. mandschurica, F. chinensis, and F. emeiensis. Fifteen potential metabolite biomarkers were identified to distinguish fruit flavors among the 13 diploid wild Fragaria accessions. A total of nine distinct modules were employed to explore key metabolites related to fruit quality through weighted gene co-expression module analysis, with significant enrichment in amino acid biosynthesis pathway. Notably, the identified significantly different key metabolites highlighted the close association of amino acids, sugars, and anthocyanins with flavor formation. These findings offer valuable resources for improving fruit quality through metabolome-assisted breeding.

Multi-omics analysis revealed the mechanism underlying flavonol biosynthesis during petal color formation in Camellia Nitidissima

BACKGROUND

Camellia nitidissima is a rare, prized camellia species with golden-yellow flowers. It has a high ornamental, medicinal, and economic value. Previous studies have shown substantial flavonol accumulation in C. nitidissima petals during flower formation. However, the mechanisms underlying the golden flower formation in C. nitidissima remain largely unknown.

RESULTS

We performed an integrative analysis of the transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome of the petals at five flower developmental stages to construct the regulatory network underlying golden flower formation in C. nitidissima. Metabolome analysis revealed the presence of 323 flavonoids, and two flavonols, quercetin glycosides and kaempferol glycosides, were highly accumulated in the golden petals. Transcriptome and proteome sequencing suggested that the flavonol biosynthesis-related genes and proteins upregulated and the anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin biosynthesis-related genes and proteins downregulated in the golden petal stage. Further investigation revealed the involvement of MYBs and bHLHs in flavonoid biosynthesis. Expression analysis showed that flavonol synthase 2 (CnFLS2) was highly expressed in the petals, and its expression positively correlated with flavonol content at all flower developmental stages. Transient overexpression of CnFLS2 in the petals increased flavonol content. Furthermore, correlation analysis showed that the jasmonate (JA) pathways positively correlated with flavonol biosynthesis, and exogenous methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment promoted CnFLS2 expression and flavonol accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings showed that the JA-CnFLS2 module regulates flavonol biosynthesis during golden petal formation in C. nitidissima.

6-Methyl-5-hepten-2-one promotes programmed cell death during superficial scald development in pear

Plants possess the ability to induce programmed cell death (PCD) in response to abiotic and biotic stresses; nevertheless, the evidence on PCD initiation during pear scald development and the involvement of the scald trigger 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one (MHO) in this process is rudimentary. Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd. cv. 'Dangshansuli' pear was used to validate such hypothesis. The results showed that superficial scald occurred after 120-d chilling exposure, which accompanied by typical PCD-associated morphological alterations, such as plasmolysis, cell shrinkage, cytosolic and nuclear condensation, vacuolar collapse, tonoplast disruption, subcellular organelle swelling, and DNA fragmentation. These symptoms were aggravated after MHO fumigation but alleviated by diphenylamine (DPA) dipping. Through transcriptome assay, 24 out of 146 PCD-related genes, which were transcribed during cold storage, were identified as the key candidate members responsible for these cellular biological alternations upon scald development. Among these, PbrCNGC1, PbrGnai1, PbrACD6, and PbrSOBIR1 were implicated in the MHO signaling pathway. Additionally, PbrWRKY2, 34 and 39 could bind to the W-box element in the promoter of PbrGnai1 or PbrSOBIR1 and activate their transcription, as confirmed by dual-luciferase, yeast one-hybrid, and transient overexpression assays. Hence, our study confirms the PCD initiation during scald development and explores the critical role of MHO in this process.

Natural products and derivatives for breast cancer treatment: From drug discovery to molecular mechanism

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer stands as the most common malignancy among women globally and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Conventional treatments, such as surgery, hormone therapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and small-molecule targeted therapy, often fall short of addressing the complexity and heterogeneity of certain breast cancer subtypes, leading to drug resistance and metastatic progression. Thus, the search for novel therapeutic targets and agents is imperative. Given their low toxicity and abundant variety, natural products and their derivatives are increasingly considered valuable sources for small-molecule anticancer drugs.

PURPOSE

This review aims to elucidate the pharmacological impacts and underlying mechanisms of active compounds found in select natural products and their derivatives, primarily focusing on breast cancer treatment. It intends to underscore the potential of these substances in combating breast cancer and guide future research directions for the development of natural product-based therapeutics.

METHODS

We conducted comprehensive searches in electronic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus until October 2023, using keywords such as 'breast cancer', 'natural products', 'derivatives', 'mechanism', 'signaling pathways', and various keyword combinations.

RESULTS

The review presents a spectrum of phytochemicals, including but not limited to flavonoids, polyphenols, and alkaloids, and examines their actions in various animal and cellular models of breast cancer. The anticancer effects of these natural products and derivatives are manifested through diverse mechanisms, including induction of cell death via apoptosis and autophagy, and suppression of tumor angiogenesis.

CONCLUSION

An increasing array of natural products and their derivatives are proving effective against breast cancer. Future therapeutic strategies can benefit from strategic enhancement of the anticancer properties of natural compounds, optimization for targeted action, improved bioavailability, and minimized side effects. The forthcoming research on natural products should prioritize these facets to maximize their therapeutic potential.

Fine Mapping of Candidate Gene Controlling Anthocyanin Biosynthesis for Purple Peel in Solanum melongena L

Fruit color is an intuitive quality of horticultural crops that can be used as an evaluation criterion for fruit ripening and is an important factor affecting consumers' purchase choices. In this study, a genetic population from the cross of green peel 'Qidong' and purple peel '8 guo' revealed that the purple to green color of eggplant peel is dominant and controlled by a pair of alleles. Bulked segregant analysis (BSA), SNP haplotyping, and fine genetic mapping delimited candidate genes to a 350 kb region of eggplant chromosome 10 flanked by markers KA2381 and CA8828. One ANS gene (EGP22363) was predicted to be a candidate gene based on gene annotation and sequence alignment of the 350-kb region. Sequence analysis revealed that a single base mutation of 'T' to 'C' on the exon green peel, which caused hydrophobicity to become hydrophilic serine, led to a change in the three-level spatial structure. Additionally, EGP22363 was more highly expressed in purple peels than in green peels. Collectively, EGP22363 is a strong candidate gene for anthocyanin biosynthesis in purple eggplant peels. These results provide important information for molecular marker-assisted selection in eggplants, and a basis for analyzing the regulatory pathways responsible for anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplants.

Advances in genomics and genome editing for improving strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa)

The cultivated strawberry, Fragaria ×ananassa, is a recently domesticated fruit species of economic interest worldwide. As such, there is significant interest in continuous varietal improvement. Genomics-assisted improvement, including the use of DNA markers and genomic selection have facilitated significant improvements of numerous key traits during strawberry breeding. CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing allows targeted mutations and precision nucleotide substitutions in the target genome, revolutionizing functional genomics and crop improvement. Genome editing is beginning to gain traction in the more challenging polyploid crops, including allo-octoploid strawberry. The release of high-quality reference genomes and comprehensive subgenome-specific genotyping and gene expression profiling data in octoploid strawberry will lead to a surge in trait discovery and modification by using CRISPR/Cas. Genome editing has already been successfully applied for modification of several strawberry genes, including anthocyanin content, fruit firmness and tolerance to post-harvest disease. However, reports on many other important breeding characteristics associated with fruit quality and production are still lacking, indicating a need for streamlined genome editing approaches and tools in Fragaria ×ananassa. In this review, we present an overview of the latest advancements in knowledge and breeding efforts involving CRISPR/Cas genome editing for the enhancement of strawberry varieties. Furthermore, we explore potential applications of this technology for improving other Rosaceous plant species.

Full-Length Transcriptome Sequencing and Comparative Transcriptomic Analyses Provide Comprehensive Insight into Molecular Mechanisms of Flavonoid Metabolites Biosynthesis in Styphnolobium japonicum

Styphnolobium japonicum L. is a commonly consumed plant in China, known for its medicinal and nutritional benefits. This study focuses on the medicinal properties influenced by flavonoid metabolites, which vary during flower development. Utilizing full-length transcriptome sequencing on S. japonicum flowers, we observed changes in gene expression levels as the flowers progressed through growth stages. During stages S1 and S2, key genes related to flavonoid synthesis (PAL, 4CL, CHS, F3H, etc.) exhibited heightened expression. A weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified regulatory genes (MYB, bHLH, WRKY) potentially involved in the regulatory network with flavonoid biosynthesis-related genes. Our findings propose a regulatory mechanism for flavonoid synthesis in S. japonicum flowers, elucidating the genetic underpinnings of this process. The identified candidate genes present opportunities for genetic enhancements in S. japonicum, offering insights into potential applications for improving its medicinal attributes.

Plant-based foods and hepatocellular carcinoma: A review on mechanistic understanding

Regardless of etiology, hepatocarcinogenesis is frequently preceded by a distinctive sequence of chronic necroinflammation, compensatory hepatic regeneration, development of hepatic fibrosis, and ultimately cirrhosis. The liver being central immunomodulators, closely maintains immunotolerance. Any dysregulation in this management of immunotolerance is a hallmark of chronic hepatic disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Apart from other malignancies, hepatocellular carcinoma accounts for 90% of liver cancers. Several emerging evidences have recognized diet as lifestyle associated risk factor in HCC development. However, natural compounds have the potential to fight hepatoma aggressiveness via inhibition of cellular proliferation and modulation of oncogenic pathways. This review aimed to identify the several plant-based foods for their protective role in HCC prevention by understating the molecular mechanisms involved in inhibition of progression and proliferation of cancer. Information from relevant publications in which several plant-based foods demonstrated protective potential against HCC has been integrated as well as evaluated. For data integration, Science direct, Google scholar, and Scopus websites were used. Nutrition-based approaches in the deterrence of several cancers offer a substantial benefit to currently used medical therapies and should be implemented more often as an adjunct to first-line medical therapy. Furthermore, the inclusion of these plant-based foods (vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices) may improve general health and decline cancer incidence.

Comprehensive metabolome and transcriptome analyses demonstrate divergent anthocyanin and carotenoid accumulation in fruits of wild and cultivated loquats

Eriobotrya is an evergreen fruit tree native to South-West China and adjacent countries. There are more than 26 loquat species known in this genus, while E. japonica is the only species yet domesticated to produce fresh fruits from late spring to early summer. Fruits of cultivated loquat are usually orange colored, in contrast to the red color of fruits of wild E. henryi (EH). However, the mechanisms of fruit pigment formation during loquat evolution are yet to be elucidated. To understand these, targeted carotenoid and anthocyanin metabolomics as well as transcriptomics analyses were carried out in this study. The results showed that β-carotene, violaxanthin palmitate and rubixanthin laurate, totally accounted for over 60% of the colored carotenoids, were the major carotenoids in peel of the orange colored 'Jiefangzhong' (JFZ) fruits. Total carotenoids content in JFZ is about 10 times to that of EH, and the expression levels of PSY, ZDS and ZEP in JFZ were 10.69 to 23.26 folds to that in EH at ripen stage. Cyanidin-3-O-galactoside and pelargonidin-3-O-galactoside were the predominant anthocyanins enriched in EH peel. On the contrary, both of them were almost undetectable in JFZ, and the transcript levels of F3H, F3'H, ANS, CHS and CHI in EH were 4.39 to 73.12 folds higher than that in JFZ during fruit pigmentation. In summary, abundant carotenoid deposition in JFZ peel is well correlated with the strong expression of PSY, ZDS and ZEP, while the accumulation of anthocyanin metabolites in EH peel is tightly associated with the notably upregulated expressions of F3H, F3'H, ANS, CHS and CHI. This study was the first to demonstrate the metabolic background of how fruit pigmentations evolved from wild to cultivated loquat species, and provided gene targets for further breeding of more colorful loquat fruits via manipulation of carotenoids and anthocyanin biosynthesis.

Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of ANS Family in Strawberry Fruits at Different Coloring Stages

To elucidate the structural characteristics, phylogeny and biological function of anthocyanin synthase (ANS) and its role in anthocyanin synthesis, members of the strawberry ANS gene family were obtained by whole genome retrieval, and their bioinformatic analysis and expression analysis at different developmental stages of fruit were performed. The results showed that the strawberry ANS family consisted of 141 members distributed on 7 chromosomes and could be divided into 4 subfamilies. Secondary structure prediction showed that the members of this family were mainly composed of random curls and α-helices, and were mainly located in chloroplasts, cytoplasm, nuclei and cytoskeletons. The promoter region of the FvANS gene family contains light-responsive elements, abiotic stress responsive elements and hormone responsive elements, etc. Intraspecific collinearity analysis revealed 10 pairs of FvANS genes, and interspecific collinearity analysis revealed more relationships between strawberries and apples, grapes and Arabidopsis, but fewer between strawberries and rice. Chip data analysis showed that FvANS15, FvANS41, FvANS47, FvANS48, FvANS49, FvANS67, FvANS114 and FvANS132 were higher in seed coat tissues and endosperm. FvANS16, FvANS85, FvANS90 and FvANS102 were higher in internal and fleshy tissues. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) showed that the ANS gene was expressed throughout the fruit coloring process. The expression levels of most genes were highest in the 50% coloring stage (S3), such as FvANS16, FvANS19, FvANS31, FvANS43, FvANS73, FvANS78 and FvANS91. The expression levels of FvANS52 were the highest in the green fruit stage (S1), and FvANS39 and FvANS109 were the highest in the 20% coloring stage (S2). These results indicate that different members of the FvANS gene family play a role in different pigmentation stages, with most genes playing a role in the expression level of the rapid accumulation of fruit coloring. This study lays a foundation for further study on the function of ANS gene family.

Blueberry extract alleviated lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation responses in mice through activating the FXR/TGR5 signaling pathway and regulating gut microbiota

BACKGROUND

Blueberry extract (BE) is rich in phenols, especially anthocyanins. Anthocyanins regulate the inflammatory response in mice and may be related to gut microbiota and bile acid receptors. The aim of the present study was to explore the effects of BE on the inflammatory response by regulating gut microbiota and bile acid receptors in mice administered Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

METHOD

Thirty male KM mice were randomly divided into three groups: CON (control diet) group; LPS (LPS stimulation) group; and LPS + BE (LPS stimulation, 5% BE intervention) group.

RESULTS

our results showed that, compared with the LPS group, the addition of BE decreased the level of inflammatory factors in serum and tissues, inhibited the TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathway, protected the intestinal barrier and activated FXR/TGR5, which was related to gut microbiota (especially Akkermansia). The active component (e.g., cyanidin 3-O-glucoside, C3G) in BE may be an important factor in regulating gut microbiota.

CONCLUSION

BE alleviated the inflammatory response mainly by activating bile acid receptor expression and regulating the gut microbiota; this effect may be related to the composition of bioactive substances in BE. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Influence of storage variables on the antioxidant and antitumor activities, phenolic compounds and vitamin C of an agglomerate of Andean berries

Berry consumption is increasing worldwide due to their high content of bioactive compounds. However, such fruits have a very short shelf life. To avoid this drawback and to offer an effective alternative for its consumption at any time of the year, an agglomerated berry powder mix (APB) was developed. The aim of this work was to evaluate the stability of APB during a 6-months-period storage at 3 temperatures. The stability of APB was determined by moisture, a_w, antioxidant activity, total phenolics, total anthocyanins, vitamin C, color, phenolic profiles, and MTT assay. APB showed differences in antioxidant activity between 0 and 6 months. It experimented non-enzymatic browning, which was more remarkable at 35 °C. APB at time 0 exhibited growth inhibitory effects against HT-29 human cancer cells. Most properties were significantly modified by storage temperature and time, which induces a significant decreasing of bioactive compounds.

Chemopreventive and therapeutic properties of anthocyanins in breast cancer: A comprehensive review

Anthocyanins have received the attention of the scientific community because of their antioxidant, antimetastatic, and cancer-inhibitory properties. The aim of this review is to comprehensively summarize the possible mechanisms by which anthocyanins exhibit anticarcinogenic properties in breast cancer (BC) cell lines and animal models. Anthocyanins inhibit proinflammatory, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell pathways and increase the activities of detoxification enzymes. In addition, downregulation of metalloproteinases by anthocyanins inhibits tumor invasion and metastatic processes in experimental systems. Anthocyanins mediate anticancer and angiogenic effects by modifying multiple receptor families. Furthermore, inhibition of cell-cycle upstream polo-like kinase signaling, the chromosomal replication checkpoint, and ataxia telangiectasia mutated signaling may contribute to the anticarcinogenic effects of anthocyanins. Finally, anthocyanins induce mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis and downregulate the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/AKT/mTOR pathway. In conclusion, anthocyanins have been shown to exert potential antitumor effects against breast carcinogenesis in vitro and in vivo, providing insights into the use of anthocyanins as a natural chemopreventive intervention in BC.

A renewed concept on the MAPK signaling pathway in cancers: Polyphenols as a choice of therapeutics

Abnormalities in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway are a key contributor to the carcinogenesis process and have therefore been implicated in several aspects of tumorigenesis, including cell differentiation, proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and metastasis. This pathway offers multiple molecular targets that may be modulated for anticancer activity and is of great interest for several malignancies. Polyphenols from various dietary sources have been observed to interfere with certain aspects of this pathway and consequently play a substantial role in the development and progression of cancer by suppressing cell growth, inactivating carcinogens, blocking angiogenesis, causing cell death, and changing immunity. A good number of polyphenolic compounds have shown promising outcomes in numerous pieces of research and are currently being investigated clinically to treat cancer patients. The current study concentrates on the role of the MAPK pathway in the development and metastasis of cancer, with particular emphasis on dietary polyphenolic compounds that influence the different MAPK sub-pathways to obtain an anticancer effect. This study aims to convey an overview of the various aspects of the MAPK pathway in cancer development and invasion, as well as a review of the advances achieved in the development of polyphenols to modulate the MAPK signaling pathway for better treatment of cancer.

Integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis reveals factors underlying differences in fruit quality between Fragaria nilgerrensis and Fragaria pentaphylla

BACKGROUND

Strawberries have become one of the most popular fruits because of their unique flavor and high nutritional value. Fruit quality and price are the most important criteria that determine consumer acceptability. Fragaria nilgerrensis and Fragaria pentaphylla are two wild Asian diploid strawberry species that differ in fruit color, taste, and aroma. To understand the molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of high-quality strawberry fruit, we integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics research methods to compare the metabolic and biosynthetic mechanisms of the two Fragaria species.

RESULTS

F. nilgerrensis fruit has higher amino acid and lipid contents and a higher sugar-to-acid ratio than F. pentaphylla fruit does, underlying their superior nutritional value, aroma, firmness, and taste. Compared with F. nilgerrensis fruit, F. pentaphylla fruit contained more flavonoids, indicating its enhanced color and health benefits. In addition, candidate structural genes that regulate the biosynthesis of flavonoids, amino acids, and glycerophospholipids in the two strawberry fruit were screened.

CONCLUSIONS

The differences in aroma, firmness, and taste between F. nilgerrensis fruit and F. pentaphylla fruit are probably due to differences in their amino acid and lipid contents, as well as the difference in their sugar-to-acid ratios. Eight key structural genes that may play important roles in the biosynthesis of amino acids, lipids, and flavonoids were identified. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Antihyperglycemic effect of an anthocyanin, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, is achieved by regulating GLUT-1 via the Wnt/β-catenin-WISP1 signaling pathway

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), an essential representative of anthocyanins, has been proved to possess a myriad of biological activities. However, the effects of C3G on glucose metabolism and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. The aim of the present study was to investigate the metabolic impact of C3G on db/db mice and to determine whether its consequent anti-diabetic effects were related to glucose transporter-1 (GLUT-1) by in vivo and in vitro studies. As a result, through diabetic db/db mice, C3G treatment was found to significantly reduce the fasting blood glucose level and increase glycogen synthesis, which were associated with upregulation of GLUT-1 expression in the liver of the mice. In addition, in liver cells of the HepG2 and L02 lines, we further discovered that C3G could effectively promote glucose consumption by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin-WISP1 signaling pathway. Nevertheless, such effects would be restricted when the expression of GLUT-1 was blocked by the inhibitor IWR-1. Meanwhile, molecular docking technology was applied to simulate the possible action sites of C3G at the molecular level, and the results indicated that C3G might bind to β-catenin. In conclusion, our study provided evidence of the antihyperglycemic effect of C3G in vivo and in vitro via regulating GLUT-1 expression and the related signaling pathways.

Food bioactives lowering risks of chronic diseases induced by fine particulate air pollution: a comprehensive review

Airborne particulate matter (PM) exerts huge negative impacts on human health worldwide, not only targeting the respiratory system but more importantly inducing and aggravating associated chronic diseases like asthma, lung cancer, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer diseases. Food-derived bioactive compounds like vitamins, dietary polyphenols, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and sulforaphane are feasible alternative therapeutic approaches against PM-mediated potential health damages, drawing great attention in recent years. In this review, the association between PM exposure and risks of developing chronic diseases, and the detailed mechanisms underlying the detrimental effects of PM will be discussed. Subsequently, principal food-derived bioactive compounds, with emphasize on the preventative or protective effects against PM, along with potential mechanisms will be elucidated. This comprehensive review will discuss and present current research findings to reveal the nutritional intervention as a preventative or therapeutic strategy against ambient air pollution, thereby lowering the risk of developing chronic diseases.

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa cv. Romina) methanolic extract attenuates Alzheimer's beta amyloid production and oxidative stress by SKN-1/NRF and DAF-16/FOXO mediated mechanisms in C. elegans

Bioactive compounds from strawberries have been associated with multiple healthy benefits. The present study aimed to assess chemical characterization of a methanolic extract of the Romina strawberry variety in terms of antioxidant capacity, polyphenols profile and chemical elements content. Additionally, potential toxicity, the effect on amyloid-β production and oxidative stress of the extract was in vivo evaluated in the experimental model Caenorhabditis elegans. Results revealed an important content in phenolic compounds (mainly ellagic acid and pelargonidin-3-glucoside) and minerals (K, Mg, P and Ca). The treatment with 100, 500 or 1000 μg/mL of strawberry extract did not show toxicity. On the contrary, the extract was able to delay amyloid β-protein induced paralysis, reduced amyloid-β aggregation and prevented oxidative stress. The potential molecular mechanisms present behind the observed results explored by RNAi technology revealed that DAF-16/FOXO and SKN-1/NRF2 signaling pathways were, at least partially, involved.

Recent Studies on Berry Bioactives and Their Health-Promoting Roles

Along with the increased knowledge about the positive health effects of food bioactives, the eating habits of many individuals have changed to obtain higher nutritional benefits from foods. Fruits are among the most preferred food materials in this regard. In particular, berry fruits are important sources in the diet in terms of their high nutritional content including vitamins, minerals, and phenolic compounds. Berry fruits have remedial effects on several diseases and these health-promoting impacts are associated with their phenolic compounds which may vary depending on the type and variety of the fruit coupled with other factors including climate, agricultural conditions, etc. Most of the berries have outstanding beneficial roles in many body systems of humans such as gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, immune, and nervous systems. Furthermore, they are effective on some metabolic disorders and several types of cancer. In this review, the health-promoting effects of bioactive compounds in berry fruits are presented and the most recent in vivo, in vitro, and clinical studies are discussed from a food science and nutrition point of view.

The mediterranean diet: Healthy and sustainable dietary pattern in the time of Sars-Cov-2

COVID-19, first reported in Wuhan, China in December 2019 quickly spread worldwide leading to serious health, social and economic consequences. A crucial role in the pathogenesis of severe disease has been attributed to the inflammatory status, that in more severe cases may evolve in an overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (“cytokine storm)” and fatal outcome. Non-communicable diseases, nutritional disorders and advanced age, conditions associated with a low-grade systemic inflammation and immune function alterations, have been identified as major risks for severe COVID-19. General recommendations for fighting COVID-19 highlighted the paramount importance of adopting a healthy plant-based dietary pattern and healthy lifestyle. The Mediterranean dietary pattern is considered as one of the healthiest dietary patterns, and its benefits are supported by a large body of evidence. Furthermore, it is considered as a sustainable lifestyle model. The aim of this research was to update the multiple benefits of the Mediterranean dietary pattern on physical and mental health, focusing on the effects that it may have in combating COVID-19. The potential effects and mechanisms of action of the main bioactive components of Mediterranean diet were also analyzed. Considering its effects in modulating inflammation and oxidative stress and supporting the immune system, the Mediterranean dietary pattern may be considered the most promising dietary approach to combat COVID-19.

The Flavonoid Biosynthesis Network in Plants

Flavonoids are an important class of secondary metabolites widely found in plants, contributing to plant growth and development and having prominent applications in food and medicine. The biosynthesis of flavonoids has long been the focus of intense research in plant biology. Flavonoids are derived from the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway, and have a basic structure that comprises a C15 benzene ring structure of C6-C3-C6. Over recent decades, a considerable number of studies have been directed at elucidating the mechanisms involved in flavonoid biosynthesis in plants. In this review, we systematically summarize the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway. We further assemble an exhaustive map of flavonoid biosynthesis in plants comprising eight branches (stilbene, aurone, flavone, isoflavone, flavonol, phlobaphene, proanthocyanidin, and anthocyanin biosynthesis) and four important intermediate metabolites (chalcone, flavanone, dihydroflavonol, and leucoanthocyanidin). This review affords a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge regarding flavonoid biosynthesis, and provides the theoretical basis for further elucidating the pathways involved in the biosynthesis of flavonoids, which will aid in better understanding their functions and potential uses.

RNA sequencing identified novel target genes for Adansonia digitata in breast and colon cancer cells

Adansonia digitata exhibits numerous beneficial effects. In the current study, we investigated the anti-cancer effects of four different extracts of A. digitata (polar and non-polar extracts of fruit powder and fibers) on the proliferation of human colon cancer (HCT116), human breast cancer (MCF-7), and human ovarian cancer (OVCAR-3 and OVCAR-4) cell lines. RNA sequencing revealed the influence of the effective A. digitata fraction on the gene expression profiles of responsive cells. The results indicated that only the polar extract of the A. digitata fibers exhibited anti-proliferative activities against HCT116 and MCF-7 cells, but not ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, the polar extract of the fibers resulted in the modulation of the expression of multiple genes in HCT116 and MCF-7 cells. We propose that casein kinase 2 alpha 3 (CSNK2A3) is a novel casein kinase 2 (CSNK2) isoform in HCT116 cells and report, for the first time, the potential involvement of FYVE, RhoGEF, and PH domain-containing 3 (FGD3) in colon cancer. Together, these findings provide evidence supporting the anti-cancer potential of the polar extract of A. digitata fibers in this experimental model of breast and colon cancers.

Anthocyanin supplement as a dietary strategy in cancer prevention and management: A comprehensive review

Anthocyanins are natural pigments proven to be beneficial in the vast majority of health problems with no side effects. In this review, the latest progress on the cancer prevention and management of anthocyanins in treating cancers ranked in the top 5 of incidence and mortality was summarized, and the interaction and corresponding mechanisms were established based on a systematic review of electronic libraries. Several studies have revealed that anthocyanins have positive impact on human health with anti-cancer capacity. This review aimed to accumulate the evidence on the anti-cancer effects of anthocyanins, corresponding mechanisms and limitation of anthocyanins on cancer prevention and management. Notably, this review updated the latest studies on cancer prevention and management of anthocyanins and also inputted the future perspectives and the demanding questions for the possible contribution of anthocyanins as anti-cancer adjuvant.

Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa duch.) Alba extract attenuates DNA damage in lymphocytes of patients with Alzheimer's disease

Increased levels of oxidative stress and oxidative DNA damage are common features in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) found in neurons and peripheral cells like peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL). Natural products such as strawberry cultivar Alba are an important source of bioactive nutrients that could help in lowering both the oxidative stress and DNA damage levels. The objective was to estimate the effects of Alba extract on DNA damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes of sporadic AD (aged 60-84 years) patients, and healthy elderly (aged 69-83 years) and young (aged 21-30 years) individuals in in vitro conditions. Comet assay was used as a sensitive technique for the evaluation of PBL DNA damage levels. Reduction of basal DNA damage level in PBL was shown in the young group after the incubation with Alba extract ranging from 25 to 200 μg/ml, with 100 μg/ml being the most effective concentration. Selected Alba extract of 100 μg/ml was further used for PBL treatment of AD and healthy elderly age matched group, displaying potential to significantly attenuate DNA damage levels in both groups (p < .05). Alba extract displayed biological activity against oxidative DNA damage, suggesting that its functional ingredients may have beneficial health effects. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The data obtained in this preliminary study displayed that strawberry Alba extract is efficient against DNA damage induced by endogenous and exogenous oxidative stress in peripheral blood lymphocytes of Alzheimer`s disease in vitro. An active area of future research of Alba cultivar should be to determine the trials in in vivo systems. Our findings also suggest that Alba cultivar's functional ingredients potentially may have beneficial health effects in AD.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) juice as a novel functional product rich in health-promoting compounds

The medicinal herbs of the Balkan Peninsula are highly represented in traditional medicine. The connection between traditional and modern life and health is reflected in the creation of new food products with added value. In this study, the plant species Sambucus nigra L. was used to obtain freshly pressed juice, whose chemical composition and various biological activities were evaluated. The most abundant compounds were phenolic acids: protocatechuic and chlorogenic acid, as well as flavonoids: quercetin-3-O-hexoside, quercetin, and rutin. The analyzed juice was very rich in total phenolic compounds (1945 mg GAE per mL juice), and a significant anthocyanin concentration was observed (30.85 mg Cy-3-GE per mL juice). Bioactivity testing revealed that elderberry juice was an extremely potent agent in the process of neutralizing NO free radicals (53.06 g TE per L juice), while in reducing over-enzyme activity, the best result was achieved in the inhibition of tyrosinase enzyme (54.70 mg KAE per g of juice).

The medicinal herbs of the Balkan Peninsula are highly represented in traditional medicine.

The Anti-Neuroinflammatory Role of Anthocyanins and Their Metabolites for the Prevention and Treatment of Brain Disorders

Anthocyanins are naturally occurring polyphenols commonly found in fruits and vegetables. Numerous studies have described that anthocyanin-rich foods may play a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of different pathological conditions, which have encouraged their consumption around the world. Anthocyanins exhibit a significant neuroprotective role, mainly due to their well-recognized antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Neuroinflammation is an intricate process relevant in both homeostatic and pathological circumstances. Since the progression of several neurological disorders relies on neuroinflammatory process, targeting brain inflammation has been considered a promising strategy in those conditions. Recent data have shown the anti-neuroinflammatory abilities of many anthocyanins and of their metabolites in the onset and development of several neurological disorders. In this review, it will be discussed the importance and the applicability of these polyphenolic compounds as neuroprotective agents and it will be also scrutinized the molecular mechanisms underlying the modulation of neuroinflammation by these natural compounds in the context of several brain diseases.

Naringin and naringenin as anticancer agents and adjuvants in cancer combination therapy: Efficacy and molecular mechanisms of action, a comprehensive narrative review

Although the rates of many cancers are controlled in Western countries, those of some cancers, such as lung, breast, and colorectal cancer are currently increasing in many low- and middle-income countries due to increases in risk factors caused by development and societal problems. Additionally, endogenous factors, such as inherited mutations, steroid hormones, insulin, and insulin-like growth factor systems, inflammation, oxidative stress, and exogenous factors (including tobacco, alcohol, infectious agents, and radiation), are believed to compromise cell functions and lead to carcinogenesis. Chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies are some examples of the approaches used for cancer treatment. However, various short- and long-term side effects can also considerably impact patient prognosis based on clinical factors associated with treatments. Recently, increasing numbers of studies have been conducted to identify novel therapeutic agents from natural products, among which plant-derived bioactive compounds have been increasingly studied. Naringin (NG) and its aglycone naringenin (NGE) are abundantly present in citrus fruits, such as grapefruits and oranges. Their anti-carcinogenic activities have been shown to be exerted through several cell signal transduction pathways. Recently, different pharmacological strategies based on combination therapy, involving NG and NGE with the current anti-cancer agents have shown prodigious synergistic effects when compared to monotherapy. Besides, NG and NGE have been reported to overcome multidrug resistance, resulting from different defensive mechanisms in cancer, which is one of the major obstacles of clinical treatment. Thus, we comprehensively reviewed the inhibitory effects of NG and NGE on several types of cancers through different signal transduction pathways, the roles on sensitizing with the current anticancer medicines, and the efficacy of the cancer combination therapy.

Effects of ozone treatment on the antioxidant capacity of postharvest strawberry

Strawberries are highly popular around the world because of their juicy flesh and unique taste. However, they are delicate and extremely susceptible to peroxidation of their membrane lipids during storage, which induces water loss and rotting of the fruit. This study investigated the effects of ozone treatment on the physiological traits, active oxygen metabolism, and the antioxidant properties of postharvest strawberry. The results revealed that the weight loss (WL) and respiration rate (RR) of strawberry were inhibited by ozone treatment (OT), while the decline of firmness (FIR) and total soluble solids (TSS) were delayed. Ozone also reduced the generation rate of superoxide radical anions , and the content of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) enhanced the activity of superoxidase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR), as well as promoted the accumulation of ascorbic acid (ASA), glutathione (GSH), and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP). In addition, a total of 29 antioxidant-related proteins were changed between the OT group and control (CK) group as detected by label-free proteomics during the storage time, and the abundance associated with ASA–GSH cycle was higher in the OT group at the later stage of storage, and the qRT-PCR results were consistent with those of proteomics. The improvement of the antioxidant capacity of postharvest strawberry treated with ozone may be achieved by enhancing the activity of the antioxidant enzymes and increasing the expression of the antioxidant proteins related to the ascorbic acid–glutathione (ASA–GSH) cycle.

Strawberries are highly popular around the world because of their juicy flesh and unique taste.

The Therapeutic Potential of Anthocyanins: Current Approaches Based on Their Molecular Mechanism of Action

Anthocyanins are natural phenolic pigments with biological activity. They are well-known to have potent antioxidant and antiinflammatory activity, which explains the various biological effects reported for these substances suggesting their antidiabetic and anticancer activities, and their role in cardiovascular and neuroprotective prevention. This review aims to comprehensively analyze different studies performed on this class of compounds, their bioavailability and their therapeutic potential. An in-depth look in preclinical, in vitro and in vivo, and clinical studies indicates the preventive effects of anthocyanins on cardioprotection, neuroprotection, antiobesity as well as their antidiabetes and anticancer effects.

LbNR-Derived Nitric Oxide Delays Lycium Fruit Coloration by Transcriptionally Modifying Flavonoid Biosynthetic Pathway

Anthocyanin-derived fleshy fruit pigmentation has become an excellent system for studying the regulatory network underlying fruit ripening and quality. The transcriptional control of anthocyanin biosynthesis by MYB-bHLH-WDR complexes has been well established, but the intermediate signals through which the environmental or developmental cues regulate these transcription factors remain poorly understood. Here we found that nitric oxide (NO) production during Lycium fruit ripening decreased progressively presenting a negative relationship with anthocyanins. After cloning of the nitric reductase (NR) gene from Lycium barbarum (LbNR) plants, we demonstrated that LbNR-derived NO partially inhibited anthocyanin biosynthesis but enhanced proanthocyanidin (PA) accumulation, and delayed fruit coloration. Application of the NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP), produced a similar effect. The endogenous or exogenous NO downregulated the transcripts both of the regulatory genes and the structural genes that related to anthocyanin biosynthesis, while upregulated both of those genes that related to PA biosynthesis. Given there is a significant negative relationship between the levels of anthocyanins and PAs during Lycium fruit ripening, NO not only inhibited anthocyanin de novo biosynthesis but redirected the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway from anthocyanins to PA production. Two types of LrMYB transcription factors of opposite nature, namely anthocyanin-specific and PA-specific, which belong to the R2R3-MYB subfamily and 1R-MYB subfamily, respectively, were identified from L. ruthenicum fruits. It was further found that NO acts by antagonizing the ABA signaling, a phytohormone we have previously shown playing a positive role in Lycium fruit coloration. Our results provided particularly novel information about NO-ABA-anthocyanin interplay during Lycium fruit development and ripening, which may fill a gap between the developmental cues and the transcriptional regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis.

The Prevention and Inhibition Effect of Anthocyanins on Colorectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Anthocyanins are a type of flavonoids that are natural water soluble glycosidic pigments with efficacious anti-cancer effects, which have good biological activity against many cancers including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the exact molecular mechanism used by anthocyanins against cancer is unclear; it is also unclear what a reasonable dosage might be for their use against colorectal cancer.

METHODS

Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, MTT assay, xenograft model, and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining were used to perform the experiments.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, anthocyanins could significantly inhibit the cell viability and proliferation and promote the apoptosis of human colon cancer HT29 cells. Furthermore, anthocyanins reduced tumor weight and volume in a colon tumor mouse model and downregulated the expression of PI3K protein, inhibited AKT expression and phosphorylation, decreased the Bcl-2 and Bax ratio and reduced survivin protein expression in the tumor tissue.

CONCLUSION

Anthocyanins promoted apoptosis of CRC cells and inhibited colon cancer growth of xenografted tumors. Mechanistically, anthocyanins enhanced the Bcl-2/Bax and caspase-dependent apoptotic pathways through targeting the PI3K/AKT/survivin pathway, resulting in impairment of growth of CRC.

The ameliorating effects of anthocyanins on the cross-linked signaling pathways of cancer dysregulated metabolism

Cancer cells underlie the dysregulated metabolism of carbohydrate, lipid and protein and thereby, employ interconnected cross-linked signaling pathways to supply adequate energy for growth and related biosynthetic procedures. In the present study, a comprehensive review of cancer metabolism and anthocyanin's effect was conducted using the existing electronic databases, including Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, as well as related articles in the field. Such keywords as "cancer", and "cancer metabolism" in the title/abstract/keyword and all the "anthocyanins" in the whole text were used. Data were collected without time restriction until February 2020. The results indicated the involvement of several signaling pathways, including inflammatory PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, Bax/Bcl-2/caspases as apoptosis modulators, and NF-κB/Nrf2 as oxidative stress mediators in the cancer dysregulated metabolism. Compelling studies have shown that targeting these pathways, as critical hallmarks of cancer, plays a critical role in combating cancer dysregulated metabolism. The complexity of cancer metabolism signaling pathways, along with toxicity, high costs, and resistance to conventional drugs urge the need to investigate novel multi-target agents. Increasing evidence has introduced plant-derived secondary metabolites as hopeful anticancer candidates which target multiple dysregulated cross-linked pathways of cancer metabolism. Amongst these metabolites, anthocyanins have demonstrated positive anticancer effects by targeting inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptotic signaling pathways. The current study revealed the cross-linked signaling pathways of cancer metabolism, as well as the promising pharmacological mechanisms of anthocyanins in targeting the aforementioned signaling mediators. To overcome the pharmacokinetic limitations of anthocyanins in cancer treatment, their interactions with gut microbiota and the need to develop related nano-formulations were also considered.

Anthocyanins: From plant pigments to health benefits at mitochondrial level

Anthocyanins are water-soluble pigments providing certain color for various plant parts, especially in edible berries. Earlier these compounds were only known as natural food colorants, the stability of which depended on pH, light, storage temperature and chemical structure. However, due to the increase of the in vitro, in vivo experimental data, as well as of the epidemiological studies, today anthocyanins and their metabolites are also regarded as potential pharmaceutical compounds providing various beneficial health effects on either human or animal cardiovascular system, brain, liver, pancreas and kidney. Many of these effects are shown to be related to the free-radical scavenging and antioxidant properties of anthocyanins, or to their ability to modulate the intracellular antioxidant systems. However, it is generally overlooked that instead of acting exclusively as antioxidants certain anthocyanins affect the activity of mitochondria that are the main source of energy in cells. Therefore, the aim of the present review is to summarize the major knowledge about the chemistry and regulation of biosynthesis of anthocyanins in plants, to overview the facts on bioavailability, and to discuss the most recent experimental findings related to the beneficial health effects emphasizing mitochondria.

Exploring the Antioxidant Effects and Periodic Regulation of Cancer Cells by Polyphenols Produced by the Fermentation of Grape Skin by Lactobacillus plantarum KFY02

Lactobacillus plantarum KFY02 (LP-KFY02) was isolated from naturally fermented yoghurt in Xinjiang. We previously demonstrated that LP-KFY02 has good biological activity in vitro. In this study, LP-KFY02 was used to ferment grape skin, and the LP-KFY02 fermented grape skin extract solution (KFSE) was examined for its antioxidant ability in a human embryonic kidney (293T) cell oxidative damage model caused by H2O2 and its inhibitory effect on human hepatoma (HepG2) cells. The results showed that KFSE reduced the degree of oxidative damage in 293T cells, increased the relevant expression levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and GSH-peroxidase (GSH-Px), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and decreased the expression levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO). The expression of genes and proteins of SOD, CAT, GSH, and GSH-Px was up-regulated. In addition, KFSE-induced growth inhibition appeared to be through induction of cell-cycle arrest. This induction was accompanied by a reduction in the expression of cell-cycle genes, such as cyclin-D1 and CDK4. In addition, KFSE induced gene expression of p21, the apoptosis gene wild-type p53 and the caspase family. At the protein expression level, Bax and Caspase-8 were up-regulated, and the inflammatory marker Nuclear Factor Kappa-B (NF-κB) was down-regulated. The fermentation solution polyphenols were separated and identified as epicatechin gallate, coumarin, new chlorogenic acid, rutin, resveratrol, chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid, etc. by HPLC. Overall, these results demonstrate that KFSE significantly attenuated oxidative damage in 293T cells and inhibited tumor growth in HepG2 cancer cells, induces cell-cycle arrest and affects proteins involved in cell-cycle regulation and proliferation. This suggests that KFSE may also be explored as a neo-adjuvant to expansion of hepatoma.

Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of the Main Fruits Consumed in the Western Coastal Region of Ecuador as a Source of Health-Promoting Compounds

We studied 19 different tropical fruits traditionally consumed in the coastal lowlands of Ecuador to determine their chemical composition and antioxidant activity. Carambola (Averrhoa carambola L.) had the highest total phenolic, flavonoid, and total antioxidant capacity values, whereas guava fruits (Psidium guajava L.) had the highest vitamin C values. The main organic acids identified were lactic, citric, and acetic acids, and the highest amount of lactic acid was found in soursop fruits (Annona muricata L.), whereas Ecuadorian ivory palm (Phytelephas aequatorialis Spruce) and guava fruits had the highest acetic acid content. Guava also had the highest citric acid content; the highest concentration of oxalic acid was found in carambola. In terms of sugar content, giant granadilla (Passiflora quadrangularis L.) had the highest values of glucose, and red mombin (Spondias mombin L.) had the largest values for fructose and guava for sucrose. Chili pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq) proved to be the main source of carotenoids, lutein, and β-carotene, anthocyanins, and vitamin C. The results here increase our knowledge regarding the composition of the main fruits consumed on the west coast of Ecuador to facilitate recommendations as potential sources of health-promoting compounds.

Alteration of Phenolic Composition in Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) by Reducing Nitrogen Supply Enhances its Anti-Proliferative Effects on Colorectal Cancer Cells

Consumption of vegetables rich in phenolic compounds has become a useful method to reduce the risk of developing several types of cancer. This study investigated the potential relationship between the alteration of phenolic compounds in lettuce induced by reduced nitrogen supply and its anti-proliferative effects on Caco-2 colorectal cancer cells. Our results showed that phenolic extracts from lettuce grown under low nitrogen conditions (LP) exhibited better anti-proliferative effects against Caco-2 cells, in part, by interfering with the cell cycle and inducing apoptosis, compared with those from lettuce supplied with adequate nitrogen. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis and correlation analysis indicated that the better anticancer activity of LP may be not only related to the increased phenolic content, but also associated with the increased percentage contribution of quercetin to total phenolics. Taken together, alteration of phenolic composition by reduced nitrogen supply can be an effectively strategy for the development of healthy vegetables as anticancer products.

Overexpression of SmANS Enhances Anthocyanin Accumulation and Alters Phenolic Acids Content in Salvia miltiorrhiza and Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge f. alba Plantlets

Flavonoids play multiple roles in plant coloration and stress resistance and are closely associated with human health. Flavonoids and non-flavonoids (such as phenolic acids) are produced via the phenylpropanoid-derived pathway. Anthocyanidin synthase (ANS) catalyzes the synthesis of anthocyanins from leucoanthocyanidin in the flavonoids branched pathway. In this study, SmANS from Salvia miltiorrhiza was cloned and mainly localized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), plastids, Golgi, plasma membrane, and nucleus of tobacco epidermal cells, and was most highly expressed in purple petals in S. miltiorrhiza, whereas it showed almost no expression in white petals, green calyxes, and pistils in S. miltiorrhiza Bge f. alba. Overexpressed SmANS enhanced anthocyanin accumulation but reduced salvianolic acid B (SAB) and rosmarinic acid (RA) biosynthesis in S. miltiorrhiza and S. miltiorrhiza Bge f. alba plantlets, meanwhile, it restored the purple-red phenotype in S. miltiorrhiza Bge f. alba. These changes were due to reallocation of the metabolic flow, which was influenced by the SmANS gene. These findings indicate that SmANS not only plays a key role in anthocyanin accumulation in S. miltiorrhiza, but also acts as a “switch” for the coloration of S. miltiorrhiza Bge f. alba. This study provides baseline information for further research on flavonoids metabolism and improvement of anthocyanin or phenolic acid production by genetic engineering.

Anti-cancer effects of polyphenols via targeting p53 signaling pathway: updates and future directions

The anticancer effects of polyphenols are ascribed to several signaling pathways including the tumor suppressor gene tumor protein 53 (p53). Expression of endogenous p53 is silent in various types of cancers. A number of polyphenols from a wide variety of dietary sources could upregulate p53 expression in several cancer cell lines through distinct mechanisms of action. The aim of this review is to focus the significance of p53 signaling pathways and to provide molecular intuitions of dietary polyphenols in chemoprevention by monitoring p53 expression that have a prominent role in tumor suppression.

Physiological and Metabolomic Analysis of Cold Plasma Treated Fresh-Cut Strawberries

Cold plasma technology offers new opportunities to the decontamination and preservation of fruits and vegetables. In the present research, strawberries were cut into four wedges and then treated with dielectric barrier discharge plasma at 45 kV for 1 min and stored for 1 week (4 °C). Metabolomic analysis suggested that plasma treatment improved the biosynthesis of the metabolites in the "flavones and flavonol biosynthesis" pathway and "biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids" pathway in fresh-cut strawberries. Physiological assay demonstrated that plasma treatment maintained the texture properties and inhibited microbial growth of fresh-cut strawberries. In addition, plasma treatment also promoted the accumulation of total phenolics, total flavonoid, and anthocyanin by enhancing the critical enzyme activities and activating related gene expression in phenylpropanoid as well as reactive oxygen species metabolism, which contributed greatly to the enhancement of antioxidant capacity of strawberry wedges. Our investigation provided a new perspective of the effect of plasma treatment on the safety and quality of strawberry wedges and suggested that cold plasma treatment holds promise as an emerging processing technology for improving the quality and antioxidant activity of postharvest fruits and vegetables.

Scandenolone from Cudrania tricuspidata fruit extract suppresses the viability of breast cancer cells (MCF-7) in vitro and in vivo

Scandenolone, an isoflavone, has shown anti-cancer potential. In this study, we extracted scandenolone from Cudrania tricuspidata fruit and evaluated its anti-breast cancer effects as well as toxicity in cell and animal models. In cell model, scandenolone suppressed the breast cancer MCF-7 cells viability, ceased mitotic cell cycle, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, up-regulated cleaved caspase-3 and promoted the phosphorylation of p53. Additionally, this isoflavone promoted cell apoptosis and induced a sustained activation of the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK, but not JNK and Akt. The effects were further verified in a human MCF-7 breast cancer xenograft model, where scandenolone efficiently suppressed the cancer growth and increased apoptotic cells in tumor tissue. However scandenolone has also shown certain toxicity to normal hepatocytes and breast epithelial cells. It could be concluded that scandenolone suppressed the growth of breast cancer cells, but its toxicity towards normal cells might limit its potential clinical use.

Blueberry anthocyanin alleviate perfluorooctanoic acid-induced toxicity in planarian (Dugesia japonica) by regulating oxidative stress biomarkers, ATP contents, DNA methylation and mRNA expression

Blueberry anthocyanin (BA) have strong health benefits as an active natural antioxidant and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) can result in oxidative stress in animals. In our study, the protective effects of BA against stress induced by PFOA was investigated in the planarian Dugesia japonica using oxidative stress biomarkers, ATP contents, ATPase activity, DNA methylation and mRNA expression. PFOA exposure could resulted in malondialdehyde production. At the same time, treatment with BA decreased the production of malondialdehyde in BA-exposed and co-treatment planarians. PFOA caused activities increase in glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and activities decrease in glutathione reductase (GR). PFOA exposure decreased the GSH and ATP contents. Additionally, it increased the GSSG contents and ATPase activity. BA administration increased the activities of GPx, GST and GR in BA and co-treatment planarians. Meanwhile BA maintained the contents of ATP, ATPase activity, GSH and GSSG by alleviating PFOA toxicity. Moreover, PFOA and BA increased the contents of 5-methylcytosine and decreased 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in all group. In addition, PFOA and BA treated planarians significantly altered the expression of genes associated with above biochemical parameters. The results showed that the mRNA expression of gpx, Djgst, gr, Djnak and dnmt1 were significantly elevated in all groups. Alterations in the mRNA expression levels indicated a stress response to PFOA exposure and anthocyanin protection. These alterations regulated biomarkers of oxidative stress, energy metabolism and DNA methylation levels in planarians. These results indicate that BA attenuated PFOA-induced oxidative stress, energy metabolism, DNA methylation and gene expression disorders.

Blueberry Malvidin-3-galactoside Suppresses Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Regulating Apoptosis, Proliferation, and Metastasis Pathways In Vivo and In Vitro

Anthocyanin, a natural antioxidant, is reported to have cytotoxicity against cancer cells; however, the mechanism remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mechanism by which malvidin-3-galactoside (M3G), the prominent anthocyanin in blueberry, suppresses the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. In vitro, M3G suppressed the proliferation, polarization, migration, and invasion activities of HepG2 cells by regulating the protein expression of cyclin D1, cyclin B, cyclin E, caspase-3, cleaved caspase-3, Bax, p-JNK, and p-p38, activating phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN), accompanied by a decrease in the p-AKT level, and lowering the protein expression levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9. In vivo, M3G promoted the apoptosis of liver tumor cells, as determined by immunohistochemistry (cleaved caspase-3, Ki-67, PTEN, and p-AKT), a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay, and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Overall, these results suggest that M3G, as an adjuvant ingredient or nutritional supplement, may be beneficial for liver cancer prevention and the modulatory mechanism seems to be associated with inhibition of proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion-related pathways.