Botanical characteristics, phytochemistry and related biological activities of Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruit, and its potential use in functional foods: a review

Chemical diversity, traditional uses, and bioactivities of Rosa roxburghii Tratt: A comprehensive review

Rosa roxburghii Tratt (RRT), known as chestnut rose, has been a subject of growing interest because of its diverse chemical composition and wide range of traditional uses. This comprehensive review aimed to thoroughly examine RRT, including its traditional applications, chemical diversity, and various bioactivities. The chemical profile of this plant is characterized by the presence of essential nutrients such as vitamin C (ascorbic acid), flavonoids, triterpenes, organic acids, tannins, phenolic compounds, polysaccharides, carotenoids, triterpenoids, volatile compounds, amino acids, and essential oils. These constituents contribute to the medicinal and nutritional value. Additionally, we explore the multifaceted bioactivities of RRT, including its potential as an anticancer agent, antioxidant, antiaging agent, antiatherogenic agent, hypoglycemic agent, immunoregulatory modulator, radioprotective agent, antimutagenic agent, digestive system regulator, anti-inflammatory agent, cardioprotective agent, and antibacterial agent, and its intriguing role in modulating the gut microbiota. Furthermore, we discuss the geographical distribution and genetic diversity of this plant species and shed light on its ecological significance. This comprehensive review provides a holistic understanding of RRT, bridges traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific research, and highlights its potential applications in medicine, nutrition, and pharmacology.

Simultaneous determination of choline, L-carnitine, betaine, trimethylamine, trimethylamine N-oxide, and creatinine in plasma, liver, and feces of hyperlipidemic rats by UHPLC-MS/MS

BACKGROUND

Due to the close correlation between choline, L-carnitine, betaine and their intestinal microbial metabolites, including trimethylamine (TMA) and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), and creatinine, there has been an increasing interest in the study of these compounds in vivo.

METHODS

In this study, a rapid stable isotope dilution (SID)-UHPLC-MS/MS method was developed for the simultaneous determination of choline, L-carnitine, betaine, TMA, TMAO and creatinine in plasma, liver and feces of rats. The method was validated using quality control (QC) samples spiked at low, medium and high levels. Second, we applied the method to quantify the effects of Rosa Roxburghii Tratt juice (RRTJ) on plasma, liver, and fecal levels of choline, L-carnitine, betaine, TMA, TMAO, and creatinine in high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemic rats, demonstrating the utility of the method.

RESULTS

The limits of detection (LOD) were 0.04-0.027 µM and the limits of quantification (LOQ) were 0.009-0.094 µM. The linear ranges for each metabolite in plasma were choline1.50-96 µM; L-carnitine: 2-128 µM; betaine: 3-192 µM; TMA: 0.01-40.96 µM; TMAO: 0.06-61.44 µM and creatinine: 1-64 µM (R2 ≥ 0.9954). The linear ranges for each metabolite in liver were Choline: 12-768 µM; L-carnitine: 1.5-96 µM; betaine: 10-640 µM; TMA: 0.5-32 µM; TMAO: 0.02-81.92 µM and creatinine: 0.2-204.8 µM (R2 ≥ 0.9938). The linear ranges for each metabolite in feces were choline: 1.5-96 µM; L-carnitine: 0.01-40.96 µM; Betaine: 1.5-96 µM; TMA: 1-64 µM; TMAO: 0.02-81.92 µM and Creatinine: 0.02-81.92 µM (R2 ≥ 0.998). The intra-day and inter-day coefficients of variation were < 8 % for all analytes. The samples were stabilized after multiple freeze-thaw cycles (3 freeze-thaw cycles), 24 h at room temperature, 24 h at 4 °C and 20 days at -80 °C. The samples were stable. The average recovery was 89 %-99 %. This method was used to quantify TMAO and its related metabolites and creatinine levels in hyperlipidemic rats. The results showed that high-fat diet led to the disorder of TMAO and its related metabolites and creatinine in rats, which was effectively improved after the intervention of Rosa Roxburghii Tratt juice（RRTJ）.

CONCLUSIONS

A method for the determination of choline, L-carnitine, betaine, TMA, TMAO and creatinine in plasma, liver and feces samples was established, which is simple, time-saving, high precision, accuracy and recovery.

Rosa roxburghii tratt residue as an alternative feed for improving growth, blood metabolites, rumen fermentation, and slaughter performance in Hu sheep

The utilization of agro-industrial by-products, such as fruit residues, presents a promising strategy for providing alternative feed to ruminants amidst rising prices and limited availability of traditional roughage. In this study, we investigated the effects of Rosa roxburghii tratt residue, a local fruit residue in Guizhou province of China, on the growth, blood metabolites, rumen fermentation, and slaughter performance of Hu sheep. Ninety-six sheep were randomly divided into four groups, namely control, treatment 1, treatment 2, and treatment 3, and fed diets containing 0, 10, 20, and 30% Rosa roxburghii Tratt residue, respectively. Feeding varying levels of Rosa roxburghii Tratt residue showed no significant differences in dry matter intake, average daily gain, or the ratio of dry matter intake to average daily gain. However, sheep in the group fed with 30% Rosa roxburghii Tratt residue showed the highest gross profit. Plasma albumin content was lower in groups fed with Rosa roxburghii Tratt residue-containing diets compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, diet treatment 3 decreased plasma creatinine levels compared to control and treatment 1 (p < 0.05). Sheep in treatment 2 and treatment 3 exhibited higher plasma high-density lipoprotein level than control and treatment 1 (p < 0.05), as well as increased total cholesterol levels compared to control (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in other plasma metabolites. Rumen pH, N-NH3, volatile fatty acids, and methane levels did not differ significantly among the four groups. However, feeding diets treatment 2 and treatment 3 resulted in decreased water holding capacity and increased shear force compared to control and treatment 1 (p < 0.05). Furthermore, pH, red chromaticity (a*), yellowness index (b*), and luminance (L*) were unaffected among the four groups of sheep. In conclusion, the inclusion of up to 30% Rosa roxburghii Tratt residue had no adverse effects on growth performance, allowing for feed cost savings without impacting rumen fermentation parameters. Rosa roxburghii tratt residue also showed benefits in improving plasma protein efficiency and enhancing lipid metabolism, albeit with limited effects on meat quality. Considering its affordability, Rosa roxburghii Tratt residue presents a practical choice for low-cost diets, ensuring economic returns.

Cognition of diet quality and dietary management in elderly patients with coronary and other atherosclerotic vascular disease in western China, a qualitative research study

BACKGROUND

Healthy eating is one of the most important nonpharmacologic treatments for patients with atherosclerosis(AS). However, it is unclear how elderly AS patients in western China perceive their dietary status and which type of nutritional assistance they would be willing to receive. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study was to understand the level of knowledge about current dietary habits and healthy eating habits among elderly AS patients in western China, and the secondary purpose was to identify acceptable nutritional assistance measures or pathways for those patients to help them manage disease progression.

METHODS

An implementation study approach was used to recruit elderly patients with AS-related diseases in western China for semistructured interviews.

RESULTS

14 participants were included in the study, and the following three themes were identified from the interviews:(1) the diet with regional characteristics; (2) low nutrition-related health literacy; (3) complex attitudes towards nutritional assistance. Most participants had misconceptions about healthy eating, and the sources of their knowledge might not be trustworthy. Participants expressed a preference for personalized nutritional assistance, especially that provided by medical-nursing combined institutions.

CONCLUSION

Patients in western China need nutritional assistance for their regional dietary habits; therefore, healthy dietary patterns consistent with the regional culture are proposed to improve the prevailing lack of knowledge about healthy diets, improve the dietary structure of patients, and control the development of the disease.

Structure and antitumor activity of a polysaccharide from Rosa roxburghii

It is well known that Rosa roxburghii, as a homology of both medicine and food, is rich in polysaccharides. To discover bioactive macromolecules for combating cancer, the polysaccharides in R. roxburghii were investigated, leading to the purification of a polysaccharide (RRTP80-1). RRTP80-1 was measured to have an average molecular weight of 8.65 × 103 g/mol. Monosaccharide composition analysis revealed that RRTP80-1 was formed from three types of monosaccharides including arabinose, glucose, and galactose. Methylation and GC-MS analysis suggested that the backbone of RRTP80-1 consisted of →5)-α-l-Araf-(1→, →6)-α-d-Glcp-(1→, →2,5)-α-l-Araf-(1→, →4,6)-β-d-Galp-(1→, and →3)-α-l-Araf-(1→, with branch chains composed of α-l-Araf-(1→. In vivo studies indicated that RRTP80-1 exhibited inhibitory activity against the growth and proliferation of neoplasms in the zebrafish tumor xenograft model by suppressing angiogenesis. Additionally, RRTP80-1 was found to upregulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) production levels in zebrafish models. All these studies suggest that RRTP80-1 activates the immune system to inhibit tumors. The potential role of the newly discovered homogeneous polysaccharide RRTP80-1 in cancer treatment was preliminarily clarified in this study.

Anti-Inflammatory and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Triterpenoid with Diverse Carbon Skeletons from the Fruits of Rosa roxburghii

The fruits of Rosa roxburghii Tratt. are edible nutritional food with high medicinal value and have been traditionally used as Chinese folk medicine for a long time. In this study, 26 triterpenoids including four new pentacyclic triterpenoids, roxbuterpenes A-D (1, 4, 5, and 24), along with 22 known analogues (2, 3, 6-23, 25, and 26), were isolated from the fruits of R. roxburghii. Their chemical structures were determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses (including IR, HRESIMS and NMR spectroscopy). The absolute configuration of roxbuterpene A (1) was determined by an X-ray crystallographic analysis. This is the first report of the crystal structure of 5/6/6/6/6-fused system pentacyclic triterpenoid. Notably, roxbuterpenes A and B (1 and 4) possessed the A-ring contracted triterpenoid and nortriterpenoid skeletons with a rare 5/6/6/6/6-fused system, respectively. Compounds 1-7, 11, 13-15, 18-20, 24, and 25 exhibited moderate or potent inhibitory activities against α-glucosidase. Compounds 2, 4, 6, 11, and 14 showed strong activities against α-glucosidase with IC50 values of 8.4 ± 1.6, 7.3 ± 2.2, 13.6 ± 1.4, 0.9 ± 0.4, and 12.5 ± 2.4 μM, respectively (positive control acarbose, 10.1 ± 0.8 μM). Compounds 13, 14, and 16 moderately inhibited the release of NO (nitric oxide) with IC50 values ranging from 25.1 ± 2.0 to 51.4 ± 3.1 μM. Furthermore, the expressions of TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-α) and IL-6 (interleukin-6) were detected by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), and compounds 13, 14, and 16 exhibited moderate inhibitory effects on TNF-α and IL-6 release in a dose-dependent manner ranging from 12.5 to 50 μM.

Combined Metabolite and Transcriptomic Profiling Unveil a Potential Gene Network Involved in the Triterpenoid Metabolism of Rose roxburghii

Rose roxburghii, a horticulturally significant species within the Rosa genus of the Rosaceae family, is renowned for its abundance of secondary metabolites and ascorbate, earning it the title 'king of vitamin C'. Despite this recognition, the mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis and regulation of triterpenoid compounds in R. roxburghii remain largely unresolved. In this study, we conducted high-performance liquid chromatography profiling across various organs of R. roxburghii, including fruit, root, stem, and leaves, revealing distinct distributions of triterpenoid compounds among different plant parts. Notably, the fruit exhibited the highest total triterpenoid content, followed by root and stem, with leaf containing the lowest levels, with leaf containing the lowest levels. Transcriptomic analysis unveiled preferential expression of members from the cytochrome P450 (CYP) and glycosyltransferase (UGT) families, likely contributing to the higher accumulation of both ascorbate and triterpenoid compounds in the fruits of R. roxburghii compared to other tissues of R. roxburghii. Transcriptomic analysis unveiled a potential gene network implicated in the biosynthesis of both ascorbate and triterpenoid compounds in R. roxburghii. These findings not only deepen our understanding of the metabolic pathways in this species but also have implications for the design of functional foods enriched with ascorbate and triterpenoids in R. roxburghii.

The chromosome-level genome and functional database accelerate research about biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in Rosa roxburghii

Rosa roxburghii Tratt, a valuable plant in China with long history, is famous for its fruit. It possesses various secondary metabolites, such as L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C), alkaloids and poly saccharides, which make it a high nutritional and medicinal value. Here we characterized the chromosome-level genome sequence of R. roxburghii, comprising seven pseudo-chromosomes with a total size of 531 Mb and a heterozygosity of 0.25%. We also annotated 45,226 coding gene loci after masking repeat elements. Orthologs for 90.1% of the Complete Single-Copy BUSCOs were found in the R. roxburghii annotation. By aligning with protein sequences from public platform, we annotated 85.89% genes from R. roxburghii. Comparative genomic analysis revealed that R. roxburghii diverged from Rosa chinensis approximately 5.58 to 13.17 million years ago, and no whole-genome duplication event occurred after the divergence from eudicots. To fully utilize this genomic resource, we constructed a genomic database RroFGD with various analysis tools. Otherwise, 69 enzyme genes involved in L-ascorbate biosynthesis were identified and a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of vitamin C, GDH (L-Gal-1-dehydrogenase), is used as an example to introduce the functions of the database. This genome and database will facilitate the future investigations into gene function and molecular breeding in R. roxburghii.

Effect of SO2, glutathione, and glutathione-rich inactive dry yeast on the color, phenolic compounds, ascorbic acid, and antioxidant activity of Roxburgh rose wine

Conventional methods for inhibiting browning in wine are not suitable for cili (Roxburgh rose) wine, which is naturally rich in ascorbic acid and subject to restrictions on SO2 addition. In this study, the capacity of various additives to suppress the browning of cili wine caused by ascorbic acid degradation was investigated. SO2, pure reduced glutathione (GSH), regular inactive dry yeast (IDY), and IDY with various levels of glutathione enrichment (g-IDY) were separately introduced into cili wine following the completion of alcoholic fermentation. Over a period of 12 months, the color parameters, levels of ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and GSH content of the aged cili wine were analyzed. Among the investigated additives, g-IDY exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect on browning. Moreover, adding 800 mg L-1 g-IDY increased the total reducing power and residual GSH content by factors of 1.52 and 2.44, respectively, with respect to those of the SO2-treated cili wine, thus enhancing its antioxidant capacity. Using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis, a total of 22 monomeric phenolic compounds were identified. After g-IDY treatment, the contents of 15 easily oxidizable o-diphenols decreased, preventing the depletion of ascorbic acid as an antioxidant. As a result, the levels of ascorbic acid and total phenolics were 1.5-fold and 1.17-fold higher than those in the SO2-treated wine, respectively. This study demonstrates that g-IDY provides a new approach to preventing the browning of wine caused by ascorbic acid degradation. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Cili wine, characterized by its high ascorbic acid content, can decelerate cellular senescence and bolster immune function, which has contributed to its popularity. Ascorbic acid, a potent antioxidant, can be spiked into white wines to significantly enhance their antioxidative properties. Nevertheless, the high ascorbic acid content in cili wine renders it susceptible to oxidation under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, which alters the wine's hue from golden to dark brown, thus diminishing its commercial value. Overcoming this browning associated with ascorbic acid degradation is therefore of considerable importance and could facilitate the advancement of the cili industry.

Characterization and prebiotic potential of polysaccharides from Rosa roxburghii Tratt pomace by ultrasound-assisted extraction

In this study, polysaccharides (RRTPs) were extracted from Rosa roxburghii Tratt pomace by hot water or ultrasound (US)-assisted extraction. The structural properties and potential prebiotic functions of RRTPs were investigated. Structural characterization was conducted through HPAEC, HPGPC, GC-MS, FT-IR and SEM. Chemical composition analysis revealed that RRTPs extracted by hot water (RRTP-HW) or US with shorter (RRTP-US-S) or longer duration (RRTP-US-L) all consisted of galacturonic acid, galactose, glucose, arabinose, rhamnose and glucuronic acid in various molar ratio. US extraction caused notable reduction in molecular weight of RRTPs but no significant changes in primary structures. Fecal fermentation showed RRTPs could reshape microbial composition toward a healthier balance, leading to a higher production of beneficial metabolites including total short-chain fatty acids, curcumin, noopept, spermidine, 3-feruloylquinic acid and citrulline. More beneficial shifts in bacterial population were observed in RRTP-HW group, while RRTP-US-S had stronger ability to stimulate bacterial short-chain fatty acids production. Additionally, metabolic profiles with the intervention of RRTP-HW, RRTP-US-S or RRTP-US-L were significantly different from each other. The results suggested RRTPs had potential prebiotic effects which could be modified by power US via molecular weight degradation.

Microbe-derived Antioxidants Enhance Lipid Synthesis by Regulating the Hepatic AMPKα-SREBP1c Pathway in Weanling Piglets

BACKGROUND

Weaning usually causes low feed intake and weight loss in piglets, which mobilizes lipid to energize. The microbe-derived antioxidants (MAs) exhibit great potential in antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and metabolic regulation.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate the changes of lipid metabolism postweaning and effects of MA on growth performance and hepatic lipid metabolism in weanling piglets.

METHODS

In the first experiment, piglets weaned at 21 d of age were slaughtered on weaning day (d0), 4 (d4), and 14 (d14) postweaning (6 piglets per day). In the second experiment, piglets were divided into 2 groups, receiving MA (MA) and saline gavage (CON), respectively. All piglets were weaned at 21 d of age and 6 piglets from each group were slaughtered at 25 d of age.

RESULTS

In experiment 1, the serum triglyceride, total cholesterol (TC), and LDL cholesterol on d4 and d14 declined significantly compared with d0 (P < 0.05). The serum leptin on d0 was higher than that on d4 and d14 (P < 0.05). The serum ghrelin kept increasing from d0 to d14 (P < 0.05). The hepatic hormone-sensitive lipase and adipose triglyceride lipase first increased from d0 to d4 and then decreased from d4 to d14 (P < 0.05). In experiment 2, the average daily gain and average daily feed intake from 21 to 25 d of age increased in the MA group compared with the CON group (P < 0.05). The serum TC, hepatic TC, and glucose of MA group showed a significant increase than that of the CON group (P < 0.05). The expression of SCD1, ACAT2, and PPARγ were upregulated in the MA group (P < 0.05). Contrary to the decreased expression of phosphorylation of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase alfa subunit (Thr172), the nuclear sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c, fatty acid synthase, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma of MA group increased than that of CON group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Weaning promoted hepatic lipolysis and MA could enhance lipid synthesis by regulating adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase alfa subunit-sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c pathway, thus improving growth performance of weanling piglets.

Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice inhibits NF-κB and increases IL-2 to alleviates the Foxp3-mediated Tregs imbalance in the peripheral blood of arseniasis patients

Arsenic can cause immune inflammation, which is the basis of arsenic-induced damage to multiple organs and systems. Forkhead box P3 (Foxp3)-labelled CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) play an essential role in maintaining immune homeostasis. Nuclear factor-κb (NF-κB) and Interleukin-2 (IL-2) are critical regulators of Foxp3. Rosa roxburghii Tratt (RRT) is an edible medicinal plant with anti-inflammation effects. In this study, a control group (n = 41) and an arseniasis group (n = 209) were recruited, and screened subjects from the arseniasis patients for RRTJ (n = 46) or placebo (n = 43) to explore the possible mechanism by which RRT alleviates immune inflammation. The results indicated that RRTJ can inhibits NF-κB and increases IL-2, and alleviates the Foxp3-mediated Tregs imbalance in the peripheral blood of arseniasis patients. In summary, these findings suggest a novel intervention or therapeutic target for immune inflammation in arseniasis patients and provide new evidence that RRTJ inhibits immune inflammation.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-023-01384-0.

Ultrasound-assisted enzymatic extraction, structural characterization, and anticancer activity of polysaccharides from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruit

In this work, Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruit polysaccharides (RPs) were extracted by ultrasound-assisted enzymatic method. The highest extraction yield of RPs was 4.78 ± 0.10 % under the optimal extraction conditions. Two purified fractions named RP1 and RP3 were obtained and systematically characterized by a combination strategy of FT-IR, monosaccharide composition, molecular weight distribution, methylation and 2D NMR spectroscopy analyses. Structural analysis showed that the main chain of RP1 was composed of rhamnogalacturonan type I (RG-I), while the side chains were rich in arabinogalactan and galactose. RP3 was composed of long homogalacturonan (HG) backbone interspersed with alternating sequences of RG-I domains, with galactose and arabinose side chains. RP1 and RP3 induced apoptosis of MCF-7 cells in a dose dependent manner in vitro especially for RP1, and had no effect on L929 cells. Furthermore, the possible anticancer mechanisms were revealed, and results suggested that RP1 induced apoptosis through ROS-dependent pathway and mitochondrial pathway. The results of this work not only provided an efficient extraction method and theoretical basis for the application of RPs, but also may contribute to develop novel functional foods or pharmaceutical products for the prevention and treatment of human breast cancer disease.

Unlocking the potential of Rosa roxburghii Tratt polyphenol: a novel approach to treating acute lung injury from a perspective of the lung-gut axis

Introduction

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a serious respiratory disease characterized by progressive respiratory failure with high morbidity and mortality. It is becoming increasingly important to develop functional foods from polyphenol-rich medicinal and dietary plants in order to prevent or alleviate ALI by regulating intestinal microflora. Rosa roxburghii Tratt polyphenol (RRTP) has significant preventive and therapeutic effects on lipopolysaccharide-induced ALI mice, but its regulatory effects on gut homeostasis in ALI mice remains unclear.

Methods

This study aims to systematically evaluate the ameliorative effects of RRTP from the perspective of "lung-gut axis" on ALI mice by intestine histopathological assessment, oxidative stress indicators detection and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production, and then explore the modulatory mechanisms of RRTP on intestinal homeostasis by metabolomics and gut microbiomics of cecal contents.

Results

The results showed that RRTP can synergistically exert anti-ALI efficacy by significantly ameliorating intestinal tissue damage, inhibiting oxidative stress, increasing SCFAs in cecal contents, regulating the composition and structure of intestinal flora, increasing Akkermansia muciniphila and modulating disordered intestinal endogenous metabolites.

Discussion

This study demonstrated that RRTP has significant advantages in adjuvant therapy of ALI, and systematically clarified its comprehensive improvement mechanism from a new perspective of "lung-gut axis", which provides a breakthrough for the food and healthcare industries to develop products from botanical functional herbs and foods to prevent or alleviate ALI by regulating intestinal flora.

Analysis of Volatile Components in Rosa roxburghii Tratt. and Rosa sterilis Using Headspace-Solid-Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and flavor characteristics of Rosa roxburghii Tratt. (RR) and Rosa sterilis (RS) were analyzed using headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). The flavor network was constructed by combining relative odor activity values (ROAVs), and the signature differential flavor components were screened using orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and random forest (RF). The results showed that 61 VOCs were detected in both RR and RS: 48 in RR, and 26 in RS. There were six key flavor components (ROAVs ≥ 1) in RR, namely nonanal, ethyl butanoate, ethyl hexanoate, (3Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate, ethyl caprylate, and styrene, among which ethyl butanoate had the highest contribution, whereas there were eight key flavor components (ROAVs ≥ 1) in RS, namely 2-nonanol, (E)-2-hexenal, nonanal, methyl salicylate, β-ocimene, caryophyllene, α-ionone, and styrene, among which nonanal contributed the most to RS. The flavor of RR is primarily fruity, sweet, green banana, and waxy, while the flavor of RS is primarily sweet and floral. In addition, OPLS-DA and RF suggested that (E)-2-hexenal, ethyl caprylate, β-ocimene, and ethyl butanoate could be the signature differential flavor components for distinguishing between RR and RS. In this study, the differences in VOCs between RR and RS were analyzed to provide a basis for further development and utilization.

Wild Rosa roxburghii Tratt Juices Grown at Different Altitudes Regulate Blood Glucose in Type 1 Diabetic Mice via the PI3K/Akt Pathway

To explore hypoglycemic effect of wild Rosa roxburghii tratt (RRT) juice at different altitudes on type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The T1DM mouse model was induced by streptozotocin (STZ), and the experiment included a normal group (NC), model group (MC), wild RRT juice groups high (HF), medium (MF), low altitude (DF) and cultivated control group (PC). During experiment, food intake, water intake, body weight, and fasting blood glucose were measured. After 28 days of administration, glucose tolerance, glycogen level, lipid profiles, and antioxidation levels in serum and liver were measured, and histomorphological changes of liver and kidney were observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. The results showed that wild RRT juice reduced blood glucose level, alleviated liver and kidney tissue damage, improved glucose and lipid metabolism disorders and attenuated oxidative damage in T1DM mice. Western blot showed that wild RRT juice at grown at different altitudes significantly increased protein abundance of PI3K, Akt, and GLUT2 in liver of T1DM mice. In conclusion, wild RRT juice from different altitudes improved glucose and lipid metabolism disorders and oxidative damage in T1DM mice, which may be attributed to activation of PI3K/Akt pathway. Overall effect: MF > PC > HF > DF.

Rosa Roxburghii Tratt Fruit Extract Prevents Dss-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice by Modulating the Gut Microbiota and the IL-17 Signaling Pathway

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a non-specific inflammatory bowel illness characterized by intestinal mucosal barrier degradation, inflammation, oxidative damage, and gut microbiota imbalances. Rosa roxburghii Tratt Fruit extract (RRTE) was extracted from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruit, exhibiting an excellent prevention effect against UC; RRTE could prevent the damage of DSS-induced human normal colonic epithelial (NCM 460) cells, especially in cell viability and morphology, and oxidative damage. Additionally, in UC mice, RRTE could limit the intestinal mucosal barrier by increasing the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins and mucin, reducing inflammation and oxidative damage in colon tissue. More importantly, RRTE can increase the abundance of beneficial bacteria to regulate gut microbiota such as Ruminococcus, Turicibacter, and Parabacteroides, and reduce the abundance of harmful bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Shigella. Furthermore, transcriptomics of colonic mucosal findings point out that the beneficial effect of RRTE on UC could be attributed to the modulation of inflammatory responses such as the IL-17 and TNF signaling pathways. The qPCR results confirm that RRTE did involve the regulation of several genes in the IL-17 signaling pathway. In conclusion, RRTE could prevent DSS-induced damage both in vitro and in vivo.

Depletion of S-adenosylmethionine induced by arsenic exposure is involved in liver injury of rat through perturbing histone H3K36 trimethylation dependent bile acid metabolism

Long-term exposure to arsenic, a common environmental pollutant, can induce various types of liver injury, but the mechanism and treatment measures remain unclear. This study constructed a rat model of arsenic-induced liver injury, with methyl group donor S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) supplementation and Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice intervention, to explore the epigenetic mechanism and intervention method of arsenic-induced liver injury from the perspective of hepatic bile acid metabolism. The results showed that arsenic exposure induced the accumulation of total bile acids (TBA) in the liver and serum of rats, and the abnormalities in liver function and liver histopathology. Arsenic reduced histone H3K36 trimethylation (H3K36me3) in the liver via consuming methyl group donor SAM. The reduction of H3K36me3 was involved in arsenic-induced bile acid accumulation by inhibiting the transcription of negative feedback regulators Fxr and Fgfr4 for hepatic bile acid synthesis. SAM supplementation reversed arsenic-induced bile acid accumulation and liver injury by reactivating H3k36me3-dependent transcription of Fxr and Fgfr4. Moreover, this study found that Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice could rescue arsenic-induced SAM consumption, recover H3K36me3-dependent negative feedback regulation of hepatic bile acid synthesis, and alleviate arsenic-induced bile acid accumulation and liver injury. In conclusion, arsenic exposure perturbed H3K36me3-dependent hepatic bile acid metabolism via depleting SAM, thereby inducing hepatic bile acid accumulation and liver injury, which was ameliorated by the supporting effect of Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice on SAM. This study contributes to understanding the mechanism of arsenic-induced liver injury from the perspective of SAM-dependent epigenetics, providing new insight into its prevention and treatment.

Triterpene acids from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruits exert anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity via ROS/JNK signaling pathway-mediated cell cycle arrest and mitochondrial apoptosis

BACKGROUND

Rosa roxburghii Tratt (RRT) is a famous healthy and medicinal edible fruit in southwest China and has been shown to have some hepatoprotective properties. However, whether the active components, such as the triterpene acids from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruits (TAR), have anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) effects and the potential molecular mechanisms are still unclear.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the anti-HCC effects and potential action mechanisms of triterpene components in RRT fruits.

METHODS

The triterpene acids in TAR were analyzed by using UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS, and the main components were virtual screening for targets based on pharmacophore and then performed enrichment analysis. HepG2 cells were used for in vitro experiments, including MTT assay, wound healing assay, and flow cytometry to detect cell cycle, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, caspase-3 activity, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) changes. Moreover, the western blot was used to detect mitochondrial apoptosis and ROS/ c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway-related proteins.

RESULTS

The main components in TAR are pentacyclic triterpene acids (mainly euscaphic acid and roxburic acid). TAR could inhibit cell viability, cell migration ability and suppress the proliferation of HepG2 cells through G2/M cell cycle arrest. On the other hand, TAR could induce HepG2 cells apoptosis, which was achieved by causing the accumulation of ROS and activation of the JNK signaling pathway, and our research showed that this apoptosis was mediated through the mitochondrial pathway. In addition, the free radical scavenger N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) could attenuate TAR-induced ROS accumulation and JNK signaling pathway activation, which ultimately reversed mitochondrial apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

TAR could activate the ROS/JNK signaling pathway, which could inhibit the proliferation through G2/M cell cycle arrest and promote apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway in HCC cells. This supports the anti-tumor potential in RRT fruits.

Transcriptomics Reveals the Mechanism of Rosa roxburghii Tratt Ellagitannin in Improving Hepatic Lipid Metabolism Disorder in db/db Mice

A complex metabolic disorder, type 2 diabetes, was investigated to explore the impact of ellagitannin, derived from Rosa roxburghii Tratt (RTT), on liver lipid metabolism disorders in db/db mice. The findings demonstrated that both RTT ellagitannin (C1) and RTT ellagic acid (C4) considerably decelerated body mass gain in db/db mice, significantly decreased fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, and mitigated the aggregation of hepatic lipid droplets. At LDL-C levels, C1 performed substantially better than the C4 group, exhibiting no significant difference compared to the P (positive control) group. An RNA-seq analysis further disclosed that 1245 differentially expressed genes were identified in the livers of experimental mice following the C1 intervention. The GO and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that, under ellagitannin intervention, numerous differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in fatty acid metabolic processes, the PPAR signaling pathway, fatty acid degradation, fatty acid synthesis, and other lipid metabolism-related pathways. The qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis results indicated that RTT ellagitannin notably upregulated the gene and protein expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). In contrast, it downregulated the gene and protein expression levels of sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP), recombinant fatty acid synthase (FASN), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). Therefore, RTT ellagitannin can activate the PPAR signaling pathway, inhibit fatty acid uptake and de novo synthesis, and ameliorate hepatic lipid metabolism disorder in db/db mice, thus potentially aiding in maintaining lipid homeostasis in type 2 diabetes.

The Dissipation Kinetics, Residue Level and Dietary Risk of Kresoxim-Methyl in Rosa roxburghii and Soil Based on the QuEChERS Method Coupled with LC-MS/MS

This study aimed to investigate the dissipation, residues and dietary assessment of kresoxim-methyl in the application of Rosa Roxburghii and soil field using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The results show that kresoxim-methyl in R. roxburghii samples was extracted by acetonitrile and purified by ethyl enediamine-N-propylsilane (PSA), while kresoxim-methyl in soil samples was extracted by acetonitrile and purified by octadecylsilyl solid phase dispersant (C18). 0.1% formic acid (v/v)-water-methanol solution was used as the mobile phase, LC-MS/MS exhibited a good linearity in the range of 0.001-10 mg L-1. The recoveries of R. roxburghii and soil matrix were 82.48%-102.55%, and the relative standard deviation (RSD) were 1.13%-4.21%. The limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) of kresoxim-methyl in R. roxburghii and soil samples was 0.50 and 0.60 µg kg-1, respectively. The dissipation dynamics of kresoxim-methyl in R. roxburghii and soil followed the first-order kinetics, with the half-life of 4.28 and 4.41 days, respectively. The terminal residual amount of kresoxim-methyl in R. roxburghii and soil samples was 0.003-1.764 and 0.007-2.091 mg kg-1, respectively. The dietary intake risk assessment indicates that a risk quotient (RQ) for kresoxim-methyl based on the national estimated daily intake (NEDI) of 0.1995 mg was 0.79%, suggesting that the use of kresoxim-methyl on R. roxburghii at recommended dosage was safe to consumers. This study provides the theoretical basis for guiding the rational use of kresoxim-methyl in the production of R. roxburghii.

Quality analysis and geographical origin identification of Rosa roxburghii Tratt from three regions based on Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy

The study aimed to provide new information of Rosa roxburghii Tratt (RRT) for the production of functional foods and distinguish the geographical origins of RRT. The nutritional components of RRT from three regions in China, such as vitamin C, polysaccharides, total flavonoids, and total phenolics, and their antioxidant activities were analyzed by one-way ANOVA. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) combined with principal component analysis (PCA), stepwise linear discriminant analysis (SLDA), k-nearest neighbor (k-NN), and support vector machine (SVM) were used to establish discriminant models to identify the geographical origin of RRT. The results of one-way ANOVA showed that the contents of some nutrients and antioxidant activity were significantly different among RRT from different regions and their FT-IR spectra also showed significant differences. The characteristic fingerprint bands of FT-IR (1679-1618 cm^-1and 1520-900 cm^-1) closely related to the geographical origins of RRT were screened out. Based on SLDA, a discriminant model was established to realize the classification and identification of RRT from different regions and the correct discrimination rate of the testing sample set obtained with the established model reached 100 %. Geographical factors caused the obvious differences in nutritional components and antioxidant activity in RRT. The characteristic fingerprint bands of RRT obtained with FT-IR could be used to identify the geographical origins of RRT more quickly and accurately.

Effect and Correlation of Rosa roxburghii Tratt Juice Fermented by Lactobacillus paracasei SR10-1 on Oxidative Stress and Gut Microflora Dysbiosis in Streptozotocin (STZ)-Induced Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Mice

Rosa roxburghii Tratt (RRT) is a kind of excellent fruit, with many healthy functions. RRT fruit dietary interventions have demonstrated a remarkable potential to prevent type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In the present study, the effects of Lactobacillus paracasei SR10-1 fermented RRT juice (FRRT) on the oxidative stress, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and gut microbiota in T2DM mice induced by high-sugar and high-fat diets and streptozotocin (STZ) were investigated using GC-MS and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The results showed that medium-dose FRRT intervention resulted in significantly decreased levels of TG, TC, LDL-C, BUN, creatinine, and MDA (p < 0.05) and significantly increased levels of HDL-C, GSH-PX, CAT, and SOD of T2DM mice (p < 0.05). The levels of acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, and isovaleric acid were significantly increased, by 142.28%, 428.59%, 1968.66%, and 81.04% (p < 0.05), respectively. The relative abundance of Firmicutes, Lachnospiraceae, Verrucomicrobiaceae, Akkermansia, and Allobaculum was significantly increased (p < 0.05), and the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, Veillonellaceae, Phascolarctobacterium, and Klebsiella was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis showed that Phascolarctobacterium was significantly negatively correlated with weight (p < 0.05), SOD (p < 0.01), CAT (p < 0.05), and T-AOC (p < 0.05). Akkermansia was significantly negatively correlated with weight (p < 0.05). Conclusively, medium-dose FRRT potentially improved T2DM by reversing dyslipidemia, decreasing oxidative stress, increasing SCFAs, and regulating gut microbiota composition. The medium-dose FRRT may serve as a novel T2DM dietary strategy to prevent T2DM.

Transcriptome and Metabolome Reveal Sugar and Organic Acid Accumulation in Rosa roxburghii Fruit

Sugars and organic acids significantly impact fruit sensory quality, but their accumulation patterns and regulatory mechanisms during the development of Rosa roxburghii fruit are still unclear. We utilized transcriptomics and metabolomics to investigate genes related to sugar and organic acid metabolism in Rosa roxburghii. Metabolomics data revealed that sucrose, glucose and fructose were the primary sugars, whereas citric acid and malic acid were the primary organic acids in Rosa roxburghii fruit. We constructed the metabolic pathways of major sugars and organic acids in Rosa roxburghii and identified five key genes involved in sugar and organic acid synthesis. In addition, we identified a module containing 132 transcription factors that was significantly associated with sucrose, citric acid and malic acid. Based on quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), we identified 13 transcription factors involved in sugar and organic acid metabolism, including the transcription factor RrANL2 and the sucrose synthase gene RrSUS3. Further yeast one-hybrid and dual luciferase assays showed that RrANL2 could bind to the promoter of RrSUS3 to increase its expression. These results provide new insights into the metabolism of sugars and organic acids in Rosa roxburghii fruit.

Effects of Rosa roxburghii Tratt on Ulcerative Colitis: An Integrated Analysis of Network Pharmacology and Experimental Validation

Rosa roxburghii Tratt is a traditional Chinese plant that has been used to treat different inflammatory diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of action of Rosa roxburghii Tratt extract (RRTE) against ulcerative colitis (UC) using network pharmacology and experimental validation. HPLC-Q/Orbitrap MS was used to rapidly identify the substances contained in RRTE after extracting the active components from the fruit. Then, network pharmacology combined with molecular docking was used to explore the critical target and potential mechanism of RRTE against UC using the active ingredients in RRTE as the research object. Data are presented in a visual manner. Finally, the pharmacological effects of RRTE in alleviating UC were further verified using a DSS-induced UC model of NCM460. The results showed that 25 components in RRTE were identified. A total of 250 targets of the active components and 5376 targets associated with UC were collected. Furthermore, a systematic analysis of the Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) networks suggests that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 1 (PIK3R1), and serine/threonine kinase 1 (AKT1) are critical targets for RRTE in the treatment of UC. A comprehensive regulatory network analysis showed that RRTE alleviated UC through the EGFR-mediated PI3K/Akt pathway, and molecular docking showed that active components could strongly bind to EGFR, PIK3R1, and AKT1. In addition, RRTE alleviated dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS)-induced cell injury and significantly decreased the protein expression levels of EGFR, PIK3R1, and p-AKT in NCM460 cells in vitro. Furthermore, RRTE significantly regulated the expression of the apoptosis-related proteins Apoptotic protease-activating factor 1 (Apaf1), cleaved caspase-3, B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl2), and Bcl2 associated X protein (Bax). In conclusion, the components of RRTE are complex, and RRTE can relieve UC through the EGFR-mediated PI3K/Akt pathway.

Inhibition of Histone H3K18 Acetylation-Dependent Antioxidant Pathways Involved in Arsenic-Induced Liver Injury in Rats and the Protective Effect of Rosa roxburghii Tratt Juice

Arsenic is a common environmental toxicant. Long-term arsenic exposure can induce various types of liver injury, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear, so effective prevention and treatment measures are unknown. This study aims to explore the mechanism of arsenic-induced rat liver injury based on the histone H3K18 acetylation-dependent antioxidant pathway and to identify the role of a medicinal and edible resource, Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice, in combating it. Hepatic steatosis and inflammatory cell infiltration were observed in rats exposed to different doses of NaAsO₂ using histopathological measurement. Increased 8-OHdG and MDA in liver tissue corroborated hepatic oxidative damage. We further found that a reduction in H3K18ac in the liver showed a dose-response relationship, with an increase in the NaAsO₂ treatment dose, and it was remarkably associated with increased 8-OHdG and MDA. The results of ChIP-qPCR identified that the decreased enrichment of H3K18ac in promoters of the Hspa1a and Hspb8 genes culminated in the inhibition of the genes' expression, which was found to be involved in the aggravation of hepatic oxidative damage induced by arsenic. Notably, Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice was found to reduce 8-OHdG and MDA in the liver, thereby alleviating the histopathological lesions induced by arsenic, which was modulated by recovering the H3K18ac-dependent transcriptional activation of the Hspa1a and Hspb8 genes. Taken together, we provide a novel epigenetics insight into clarifying the mechanism of arsenic-induced liver injury and its rescue by Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice.

Screening and oenological property analysis of ethanol-tolerant non-Saccharomyces yeasts isolated from Rosa roxburghii Tratt

Ethanol tolerance is crucial for the oenological yeasts. Rosa roxburghii Tratt, a Rosaceae plant native to China, is rich in nutritional and medicinal ingredients. In this study, ethanol-tolerant non-Saccharomyces yeasts were screened, and their oenological properties were further evaluated. Three ethanol-tolerant yeast strains (designated as C6, F112, and F15), which could tolerate 12% (v/v) ethanol treatment, were isolated from R. roxburghii, and identified as Candida tropicalis, Pichia guilliermondii, and Wickerhamomyces anomalus, respectively. The winemaking condition tolerances of these ethanol-tolerant yeast strains were similar to those of Saccharomyces cerevisiae X16. However, their growth, sugar metabolic performance and sulphureted hydrogen activities, were different. The β-glucosidase production ability of strain W. anomalus F15 was lower than that of S. cerevisiae X16, and strains of C. tropicalis C6 and P. guilliermondii F112 were similar to S. cerevisiae X16. Electronic sensory properties of the R. roxburghii wines fermented using ethanol-tolerant yeasts together with S. cerevisiae showed no significant differences. However, the mixed inoculation of the ethanol-tolerant yeast strains with S. cerevisiae could regulate the volatile aroma characteristics of the fermented R. roxburghii wine, enriching and enhancing the aroma flavor. Therefore, the selected ethanol-tolerant yeasts have the potential for application in the production of unique R. roxburghii wine.

Exploring the mechanism of browning of Rosa roxburghii juice based on nontargeted metabolomics

To explore the mechanism of Rosa roxburghii juice browning, this experiment was based on nontargeted metabolomics to study the effects of browning on the nutrition, flavor, metabolites, and metabolic pathways of R. roxburghii juice before and after storage. The results showed that the total soluble solids, superoxide dismutase (SOD), vitamin C (V_C ), total phenol, and total flavonoid of R. roxburghii juice decreased significantly before and after storage. The color difference value ∆E, browning index, and flavor and taste of R. roxburghii juice changed significantly (p < 0.05). A total of 541 metabolites were detected before and after browning of R. roxburghii juice by nontargeted metabolomics, including 435 differential metabolites, of which 221 were upregulated, and 214 were downregulated. The differential metabolites were mainly amino acids and peptides, carbohydrates, and carbohydrate conjugates. There were a total of 76 metabolic pathways enriched by differential metabolites, involving mainly galactose metabolism; alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism; and pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis. The experimental results showed that after browning of R. roxburghii juice, V_C , total phenol, total flavonoid, and SOD activity were seriously lost, and the flavor deteriorated. The contribution of differential metabolites and metabolic pathways to the browning of R. roxburghii juice was sugar metabolism > amino acid metabolism > ascorbate and aldarate metabolism > phenols.

Recent Advances on Main Active Ingredients, Pharmacological Activities of Rosa roxbughii and Its Development and Utilization

Rosa roxburghii tratt (R. roxburghii) is an important plant resource that is widely distributed in the southwest of China and favored by consumers due to its high nutritional value and healthy functions. Meanwhile, it is a traditional edible and medicinal plant in China. With the deepening research of R. roxburghii, more and more bioactive components and its health care and medicinal value have been discovered and developed in recent years. This review summarizes and discusses the recent advances on main active ingredients such as vitamin, protein, amino acid, superoxide dismutase, polysaccharide, polyphenol, flavonoid, triterpenoid and mineral, and pharmacological activities including antioxidant activity, immunomodulatory activity, anti-tumor activity, glucose and lipid metabolism regulation, anti-radiation effect, detoxification effect, and viscera protection of R. roxbughii, as well as its development and utilization. The research status and existing problems of R. roxburghii development and quality control are also briefly introduced. This review ends with some suggestions on the perspectives and directions for future research and potential applications of R. roxbughii.

Effect and Correlation of Rosa roxburghii Tratt Fruit Vinegar on Obesity, Dyslipidemia and Intestinal Microbiota Disorder in High-Fat Diet Mice

To investigate the effect of Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruit vinegar (RFV) on the intervention of obesity and hyperlipidemia and its potential mechanism, a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity model in mice was established and gavaged with RFV, saline and xuezhikang for 30 consecutive days, respectively. The results showed that RFV supplementation significantly reduced fat accumulation, and improved dyslipidemia and liver inflammation in HFD mice. RFV intervention for 30 days significantly improved the diversity of gut microbiota and altered the structure of gut microbiota in HFD mice. Compared with the model group (MC), the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes at least decreased by 15.75% after RFV treatment, and increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria (Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Lactobacillaceae, Bacteroides, Akkermansia,) and decreased the relative abundance of harmful bacteria (Ruminococcaceae, Erysipelotrichaceae, Ruminococcaceae _UCG-013, Lachnospiraceae, Allobaculum, Actinobacteria). Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed that Erysipelotrichaceae, Allobaculum, Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-013, uncultured_bacterium_f_Lachnospiraceae and Desulfobacterota were positively correlated (p < 0.05) with the body weight of mice, while Proteobacteria was negatively correlated (p < 0.05) with the body weight of mice. The two main bacteria that could promote dyslipidemia in obese mice were Actinobacteria and Firmicutes, while those that played a mitigating role were mainly Bacteroidetes. It is concluded that RFV plays an important role in the intervention of obesity and related complications in HFD mice by regulating their gut microbiota.

Component analysis and anti-pulmonary fibrosis effects of Rosa sterilis juice

Rosa sterilis is a new variety of Rosa roxburghii Tratt, and is rich in bioactive substances, but its role in pulmonary fibrosis has not been elucidated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential components of Rosa sterili juice (RSJ) and its anti-pulmonary fibrosis effects. We employed HPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap-MS, HPLC, and ICP-MS to analyze the composition of RSJ, and carried out free radical scavenging assays to determine its antioxidant activity. Then, the anti-pulmonary fibrosis effect of RSJ was evaluated using the bleomycin-induced mice model and the TGF-β1-induced cell model. A total of 49 components were identified in RSJ, and the vitamin C content was 11.29 ± 0.05 mg mL^-1. Catechin was the most abundant phenol, and potassium was the highest mineral element in RSJ. Attractively, we found that RSJ alleviated bleomycin-induced inflammation infiltration and tissue injury, and inhibited TGF-β1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and fibroblast differentiation through the Smad2/3 signaling pathway. In conclusion, we discovered a new health-protective activity of Rosa sterilis, and the high levels of polyphenols, flavonoids, and vitamin C may be the basic anti-fibrosis substances.

Association of Physcion and Chitosan Can Efficiently Control Powdery Mildew in Rosa roxburghii

Powdery mildew is an extremely serious disease of all Rosa roxburghii production regions in China and frequently causes 30~40% of economic losses. Natural products are considered excellent alternatives to chemical fungicides. In this work, we investigated the efficacy of physcion used together with chitosan controls R. roxburghii powdery mildew and impacts its resistance, growth, yield, and quality. The results reveal that the foliar application of 12.5 mg L−1 0.5% physcion aqueous solutions (AS) + 250 mg L−1 chitosan efficiently controlled powdery mildew with the efficacies of 92.65% and 90.68% after 7 d and 14 d, respectively, which conspicuously (p < 0.05) higher than 83.62% and 80.43% of 25 mg L−1 0.5% physcion AS, as well as 70.75% and 77.80% of 500 mg L−1 chitosan. Meanwhile, this association prominently ameliorated the resistant and photosynthetic capabilities of R. roxburghii. Simultaneously, this association was more efficient than physcion or chitosan alone for ameliorating the yield and quality of R. roxburghii. This work emphasizes that the association of physcion and chitosan can be nominated as a natural, efficient and environmental-friendly alternative ingredient in controlling R. roxburghii powdery mildew and ameliorating its resistant, photosynthesis, yield, and quality.

Microbe-Derived Antioxidants Reduce Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Responses by Activating the Nrf2 Pathway to Inhibit the ROS/NLRP3/IL-1β Signaling Pathway

Inflammation plays an important role in the innate immune response, yet overproduction of inflammation can lead to a variety of chronic diseases associated with the innate immune system; therefore, modulation of the excessive inflammatory response has been considered a major strategy in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Activation of the ROS/NLRP3/IL-1β signaling axis has been suggested to be a key initiating phase of inflammation. Our previous study found that microbe-derived antioxidants (MA) are shown to have excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; however, the mechanism of action of MA remains unclear. The current study aims to investigate whether MA could protect cells from LPS-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses by modulating the Nrf2-ROS-NLRP3-IL-1β signaling pathway. In this study, we find that MA treatment significantly alleviates LPS-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in RAW264.7 cells. MA significantly reduce the accumulation of ROS in RAW264.7 cells, down-regulate the levels of pro-inflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-6), inhibit NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1 mRNA, and protein levels, and reduce the mRNA, protein levels, and content of inflammatory factors (IL-1β and IL-18). The protective effect of MA is significantly reduced after the siRNA knockdown of the NLRP3 gene, presumably related to the ability of MA to inhibit the ROS-NLRP3-IL-1β signaling pathway. MA is able to reduce the accumulation of ROS and alleviate oxidative stress by increasing the content of antioxidant enzymes, such as SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT. The protective effect of MA may be due to its ability of MA to induce Nrf2 to enter the nucleus and initiate the expression of antioxidant enzymes. The antioxidant properties of MA are further enhanced in the presence of the Nrf2 activator SFN. After the siRNA knockdown of the Nrf2 gene, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of MA are significantly affected. These findings suggest that MA may inhibit the LPS-stimulated ROS/NLRP3/IL-1β signaling axis by activating Nrf2-antioxidant signaling in RAW264.7 cells. As a result of this study, MA has been found to alleviate inflammatory responses and holds promise as a therapeutic agent for inflammation-related diseases.

Chitosan as an Adjuvant to Enhance the Control Efficacy of Low-Dosage Pyraclostrobin against Powdery Mildew of Rosa roxburghii and Improve Its Photosynthesis, Yield, and Quality

Powdery mildew is the most serious fungal disease of Rosa roxburghii in Guizhou Province, China. In this study, the control role of chitosan-assisted pyraclostrobin against powdery mildew of R. roxburghii and its influences on the resistance, photosynthesis, yield, quality and amino acids of R. roxburghii were evaluated. The results indicate that the foliar application of 30% pyraclostrobin suspension concentrate (SC) 100 mg L−1 + chitosan 500 mg L−1 displayed a superior control potential against powdery mildew, with a control efficacy of 89.30% and 94.58% after 7 d and 14 d of spraying, respectively, which significantly (p < 0.01) exceeded those of 30% pyraclostrobin SC 150 mg L−1, 30% pyraclostrobin SC 100 mg L−1, and chitosan 500 mg L−1. Simultaneously, their co-application could effectively enhance their effect on the resistance and photosynthesis of R. roxburghii leaves compared to their application alone. Meanwhile, their co-application could also more effectively enhance the yield, quality, and amino acids of R. roxburghii fruits compared to their application alone. This work highlights that chitosan can be applied as an effective adjuvant to promote the efficacy of low-dosage pyraclostrobin against powdery mildew in R. roxburghii and improve its resistance, photosynthesis, yield, quality, and amino acids.

A Comparative Study of Yeasts for Rosa roxburghii Wine Fermentation

Wine produced by fermentation of Chestnut rose (Rosa roxburghii) hips, known as cili (Chinese-Mandarin), in Guizhou province, and other places in China is becoming popular but there is limited knowledge of suitable yeast strains for its production. In this study, we first investigated the oenological properties of six commercial S. cerevisiae yeast strains (X16, F33, SH12, GV107, S102, RMS2), one commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. bayanus (S103), one commercial, non-Saccharomyces yeast strain, Torulaspora delbrueckii Prelude, and one indigenous S. cerevisiae strain, CZ, for cili wine fermentation. We measured the key traits of each of the yeast strains, viz., sulfite resistance, flocculation, hydrogen sulfide production capacity, fermentation rate, and yeast growth curves. Subsequently, we measured the resultant wine characteristics, viz., pH, alcohol content, residual sugar, titratable acidity, volatile acidity, ascorbic acid content and headspace volatile compounds. The overall suitability of each yeast type was evaluated using a multi-factor, unweighted, scorecard. On that basis, RMS2 was the most suitable, and closely followed by CZ and X16. This study is the first comparative evaluation of yeasts for cili wine production and provides a preliminary guide for their selection.

The Effect of Polyphenol Extract from Rosa Roxburghii Fruit on Plasma Metabolome and Gut Microbiota in Type 2 Diabetic Mice

Rosa roxburghii fruit is an underutilized functional food abundant in polyphenols. Polyphenols have been proved to have antidiabetic effects. This study investigates the effects of Rosa roxburghii fruit polyphenols extract (RPE) on plasma metabolites and gut microbiota composition in streptozotocin (STZ)- and high-fat diet- induced type 2 diabetes using metabolomics and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The induced diabetic mice were fed with 400 mg/kg body weight RPE for 8 weeks. RPE demonstrated hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Colonic oxidative stress biomarkers were also lowered by RPE. Besides, RPE decreased plasma ceramides and tyrosine levels and increased carnitine and phosphatidylinositols levels, indicating improved insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, and immune response. Furthermore, RPE decreased abundances of Lachnospiraceae and Rikenellaceae and increased abundances of Erysipelotrichaceae and Faecalibaculum. Metabolic function prediction of the gut microbiota by PICRUSt demonstrated that RPE downregulated the phosphotransferase system. Taken together, these findings demonstrated that RPE has the potential to prevent type 2 diabetes by regulating the plasma metabolites and gut microbes.

Fermented Rosa Roxburghii Tratt Juice Alleviates High-Fat Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia in Rats by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Metabolites

Hyperlipidemia endangers human health and has become a significant public health problem. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of the hypolipidemic effects of Fermented Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice (FRRT) on hyperlipidemic rats and a new hypolipidemic intervention strategy was disclosed. The study revealed 12 weeks FRRT treatment significantly decreased the body weight, total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) increased. We integrated the 16S rDNA sequencing and metabolomic profiling to evaluate the changes in the gut microbiota and metabolites. Significant changes in microbial composition accompanied marked changes in 56 feces metabolites. The results showed that FRRT could decrease the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes, while increase the abundance of some bacterial genera (Prevotella, Paraprevotellaceae_Prevotella, Ruminococcus, Oscillospira). Metabolomics analysis displayed that the metabolisms of bile acid, amino acid and lipid were significantly affected by FRRT. Correlation analysis suggest that the reductions in serum lipids by FRRT are associated with the gut microbial community and their associated metabolites (amino acid metabolites, bile acid metabolites, and lipid metabolites). This study confirmed FRRT could be used as a new dietary and therapeutic strategy to dyslipidemia by improving the gut microbiota dysbiosis, metabolomic disorders and regulating the dyslipidemia. Our study also extended the understanding of the relationship between gut microbiota, metabolites, and lipid-lowering functions.

Effects of Rosa roxburghii Tratt Must on the Growth, Nutrient Composition, and Antioxidant Activity of Pleurotus ostreatus Mycelia

Rosa roxburghii Tratt, a Rosaceae plant endemic to China, produces fruit with high nutritional and medicinal value. The effects of R. roxburghii must on the growth, nutrient composition, and antioxidant activity of Pleurotus ostreatus mycelia was investigated. We measured the mycelial growth rate, proximate composition, amino acid and crude polysaccharide content, and the antioxidant activity of the crude polysaccharides of P. ostreatus mycelia cultivated under different concentrations of R. roxburghii must (2%, 4%, and 8%, v/v). Low concentrations of R. roxburghii must (2% and 4%) promoted mycelial growth, while a high concentration (8%) inhibited mycelial growth. Low concentrations of R. roxburghii must had no significant effects on the soluble substances, fat, ash, and crude fiber in P. ostreatus mycelia, but significantly increased the crude protein and total amino acid contents (p < 0.05). The addition of R. roxburghii must at low concentrations significantly increased the crude polysaccharide content in mycelia (p < 0.05) but had no impact on the scavenging of hydroxyl radicals and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Therefore, R. roxburghii must at low concentration can be used as a substrate for P. ostreatus cultivation to increase the protein and polysaccharide contents in mycelia.

Identification of polyphenols from Rosa roxburghii Tratt pomace and evaluation of in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity

Rosa roxburghii Tratt pomace (RRTP) has increasingly attracted attention due to its various nutritional ingredients and health benefits. In this study, the free phenolic fraction (RRTP-FPF) and bound phenolic fraction (RRTP-BPF) were extracted from RRTP by solvent extraction method and alkaline hydrolysis method, respectively. The composition of polyphenols in RRTP-FPF and RRTP-BPF were identified by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography equipped with an electrospray ionization and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS). In vitro antioxidant assays indicated that RRTP-FPF and RRTP-BPF could scavenge radicals in a dose-dependent manner, and RRTP-BPF exhibited better scavenging activity than RRTP-FPF. In addition, RRTP-FPF and RRTP-BPF (20 ∼ 100 μg/mL) treatment for 24 h could significantly increase the survival rate and decrease reactive oxygen species (ROS) level of paraquat-exposed nematodes through improving the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). These results suggest that RRTP could be as a good and cheap source of natural antioxidants.

RNA-Seq Analysis of Protection against Chronic Alcohol Liver Injury by Rosa roxburghii Fruit Juice (Cili) in Mice

Rosa roxburghii Tratt. fruit juice (Cili) is used as a medicinal and edible resource in China due to its antioxidant and hypolipidemic potentials. The efficacy of Cili in protecting alcohol-induced liver injury and its underlying mechanism was investigated. C57BL/6J mice received a Lieber-DeCarli liquid diet containing alcohol to produce liver injury. After the mice were adapted gradually to 5% alcohol, Cili (4 mL and 8 mL/kg/day for 4 weeks) were gavaged for treatment. The serum enzyme activities, triglyceride levels, histopathology and Oil-red O staining were examined. The RNA-Seq and qPCR analyses were performed to determine the protection mechanisms. Cili decreased serum and liver triglyceride levels in mice receiving alcohol. Hepatocyte degeneration and steatosis were improved by Cili. The RNA-Seq analyses showed Cili brought the alcohol-induced aberrant gene pattern towards normal. The qPCR analysis verified that over-activation of CAR and PXR (Cyp2a4, Cyp2b10 and Abcc4) was attenuated by Cili. Cili alleviated overexpression of oxidative stress responsive genes (Hmox1, Gsta1, Gstm3, Nqo1, Gclc, Vldlr, and Cdkn1a), and rescued alcohol-downregulated metabolism genes (Angptl8, Slc10a2, Ces3b, Serpina12, C6, and Selenbp2). Overall, Cili was effective against chronic alcohol liver injury, and the mechanisms were associated with decreased oxidative stress, improved lipid metabolism through modulating nuclear receptor CAR-, PXR-and Nrf2-mediated pathways.

Inoculation of Prickly Pear Litter with Microbial Agents Promotes the Efficiency in Aerobic Composting

Prickly pear (Rosa roxburghii Tratt), a shrub mainly distributed in South China, is an economically essential plant for helping the local people out of poverty. To efficiently provide sufficient nutrients to the plant in the soil for the ecological cultivation of prickly pear, we studied the aerobic composting of a prickly pear litter with three agents, including AC (Bacillus natto, Bacillus sp., Actinomycetes sp., Saccharomyces sp., Trichoderma sp., Azotobacter sp., and Lactobacillus sp.), BC (Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillaceae sp., Bacillus licheniformis, Saccharomyces sp., and Enterococcus faecalis), and CC (Bacillus sp., Actinomycetes sp., Lactobacillaceae sp., Saccharomyces sp., and Trichoderma sp.) and a control without microbial agents. The results show that the physicochemical and microbial traits of three resultant prickly pear composts were different after the inoculation with AC, BC, or CC. The pH values of three composts ranged from 8.0 to 8.5, and their conductivity values were between 1.6 and 1.9 mS/cm. The seed germination index of all three composts exceeded 70%. The contents of volatile solids and organic matter of the three composts both decreased significantly. The BC maximally increased the total N (18%) of the compost, whereas the CC maximally increased the total P (48%) and total K (38%) contents. Contents of available P and available K of the three composts increased significantly, and the available N content in compost after BC inoculation increased by 16%. The physicochemical features showed that three composts were non-hazardous to plants, and the microbial agents improved nutrient availability. The richness, Chao1, and Shannon index in the bacterial communities of three composts increased significantly. At the phylum level, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes bacterium became dominant in the three composts, whereas at the family level, Microscillaceae and A4b (phylum Chloroflexi) became the dominant groups. Abundant cellulose-degrading bacteria existed at the dominant phylum level, which promoted fiber degradation in composts. Organic matter and the available N content regulated the composting bacterium. The inoculants enhanced the efficiency of composting: agents B and C were more suitable exogenous inoculants for the composting of a prickly pear litter.

Construction of a Microfluidic Platform With Core-Shell CdSSe@ZnS Quantum Dot-Encoded Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Microspheres for Screening and Locating Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Inhibitors From Fruits of Rosa roxburghii

The microfluidic platform is a versatile tool for screening and locating bioactive molecules from functional foods. Here, a layer-by-layer assembly approach was used to fabricate core-shell CdSSe@ZnS quantum dot encoded superparamagnetic iron oxide microspheres, which served as a carrier for matrix metalloproteinase-2. The matrix metalloproteinase-2 camouflaged magnetic microspheres was further incorporated into a homemade microfluidic platform and incubated with extracts of fruits of Rosa roxburghii. The flow rate of the microfluidic platform was tuned. The major influencing parameters on ligand binding, such as dissociate solvents, incubation pH, ion strength, temperature, and incubation time were also optimized by using ellagic acid as a model compound. The specific binding ligands were sent for structure elucidation by mass spectrometry. The absolute recovery of ellagic acid ranged from 101.14 to 102.40% in the extract of R. roxburghii under the optimal extraction conditions. The linearity was pretty well in the range of 0.009–1.00 mg·ml⁻¹ (R² = 0.9995). The limit of detection was 0.003 mg·ml⁻¹. The relative SDs of within-day and between-day precision were <1.91%. A total of thirteen ligands were screened out from fruits of R. roxburghii, which were validated for their inhibitory effect by enzyme assay. Of note, eleven new matrix metalloproteinase-2 inhibitors were identified, which may account for the antitumor effect of fruits of R. roxburghii.

Comparative Analysis of Fruit Metabolome Using Widely Targeted Metabolomics Reveals Nutritional Characteristics of Different Rosa roxburghii Genotypes

The fruits of Rosa roxburghii (R. roxburghii) Tratt., which are rich in bioactive compounds, provide numerous health benefits, yet the overall metabolism of R. roxburghii fruits and the metabolic profiles among different genotypes of R. roxburghii fruits are not fully understood. In the research, we used ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry analysis to identify and quantify metabolites including phenolic acids, amino acids, and organic acids in six R. roxburghii genotypes; a total of 723 metabolites were identified. Comparative analysis showed some different characteristic metabolites in each genotype. Moreover, flavonoids, triterpenoids, and phenolic acids were significantly correlated with the antioxidant capacity of the fruit extract. Our results suggest that R. roxburghii fruits have rich bioactive metabolites beneficial to human health and that Rr-7 and Rr-f have more potential to be used as medicinal material or functional food than other genotypes. This research provides helpful information for developing new functional foods of R. roxburghii genotypes.