1
|
Matías J, Rodríguez MJ, Carrillo-Vico A, Casals J, Fondevilla S, Haros CM, Pedroche J, Aparicio N, Fernández-García N, Aguiló-Aguayo I, Soler-Rivas C, Caballero PA, Morte A, Rico D, Reguera M. From 'Farm to Fork': Exploring the Potential of Nutrient-Rich and Stress-Resilient Emergent Crops for Sustainable and Healthy Food in the Mediterranean Region in the Face of Climate Change Challenges. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1914. [PMID: 39065441 PMCID: PMC11281201 DOI: 10.3390/plants13141914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
In the dynamic landscape of agriculture and food science, incorporating emergent crops appears as a pioneering solution for diversifying agriculture, unlocking possibilities for sustainable cultivation and nutritional bolstering food security, and creating economic prospects amid evolving environmental and market conditions with positive impacts on human health. This review explores the potential of utilizing emergent crops in Mediterranean environments under current climate scenarios, emphasizing the manifold benefits of agricultural and food system diversification and assessing the impact of environmental factors on their quality and consumer health. Through a deep exploration of the resilience, nutritional value, and health impacts of neglected and underutilized species (NUS) such as quinoa, amaranth, chia, moringa, buckwheat, millet, teff, hemp, or desert truffles, their capacity to thrive in the changing Mediterranean climate is highlighted, offering novel opportunities for agriculture and functional food development. By analysing how promoting agricultural diversification can enhance food system adaptability to evolving environmental conditions, fostering sustainability and resilience, we discuss recent findings that underscore the main benefits and limitations of these crops from agricultural, food science, and health perspectives, all crucial for responsible and sustainable adoption. Thus, by using a sustainable and holistic approach, this revision analyses how the integration of NUS crops into Mediterranean agrifood systems can enhance agriculture resilience and food quality addressing environmental, nutritional, biomedical, economic, and cultural dimensions, thereby mitigating the risks associated with monoculture practices and bolstering local economies and livelihoods under new climate scenarios.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Matías
- Agrarian Research Institute “La Orden-Valdesequera” of Extremadura (CICYTEX), 06187 Guadajira (Badajoz), Spain;
| | - María José Rodríguez
- Technological Institute of Food and Agriculture of Extremadura (INTAEX-CICYTEX), Avda. Adolfo Suárez s/n, 06007 Badajoz, Spain;
| | - Antonio Carrillo-Vico
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, IBiS/Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain;
- Departamento de Bioquímica Médica y Biología Molecular e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Sevilla, 41009 Seville, Spain
| | - Joan Casals
- Fundació Miquel Agustí/HorPTA, Department of Agri-Food Engineering and Biotechnology, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)-BarcelonaTech, 08860 Castelldefels, Spain;
| | - Sara Fondevilla
- Institute for Sustainable Agriculture, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Avda. Menéndez Pidal s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain;
| | - Claudia Mónika Haros
- Cereal Group, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA-CSIC), Av. Agustín Escardino 7, Parque Científico, 46980 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Justo Pedroche
- Group of Plant Proteins, Instituto de la Grasa, CSIC. Ctra. de Utrera Km. 1, 41013 Seville, Spain;
| | - Nieves Aparicio
- Agro-Technological Institute of Castilla y León (ITACyL), Ctra. Burgos Km. 119, 47071 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - Nieves Fernández-García
- Department of Abiotic Stress and Plant Pathology, Centro de Edafología y Biología Aplicada del Segura (CSIC), Campus Universitario de Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Ingrid Aguiló-Aguayo
- Postharvest Programme, Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), Parc Agrobiotech Lleida, Parc de Gardeny, Edifici Fruitcentre, 25003 Lleida, Spain;
| | - Cristina Soler-Rivas
- Departamento de Producción y Caracterización de Nuevos Alimentos, Institute of Food Science Research-CIAL (UAM+CSIC), Campus de Cantoblanco, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Nicolas Cabrera 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
- Sección Departamental de Ciencias de la Alimentación, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Campus de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro A. Caballero
- Food Technology, Department of Agriculture and Forestry Engineering, Universidad de Valladolid, 34004 Palencia, Spain;
| | - Asunción Morte
- Departamento Biología Vegetal, Facultad de Biología, Campus Universitario de Espinardo, Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Daniel Rico
- Department of Medicine, Dermatology and Toxicology, Universidad de Valladolid, Av. Ramón y Cajal, 7, 47005 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - María Reguera
- Departamento de Biología, Campus de Cantoblanco, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin 2, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Stasiłowicz-Krzemień A, Gościniak A, Formanowicz D, Cielecka-Piontek J. Natural Guardians: Natural Compounds as Radioprotectors in Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6937. [PMID: 39000045 PMCID: PMC11241526 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with millions of deaths attributed to it annually. Radiotherapy, a cornerstone in cancer treatment, aims to destroy cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. However, the harmful effects of irradiation on normal cells present a formidable obstacle. To mitigate these effects, researchers have explored using radioprotectors and mitigators, including natural compounds derived from secondary plant metabolites. This review outlines the diverse classes of natural compounds, elucidating their roles as protectants of healthy cells. Furthermore, the review highlights the potential of these compounds as radioprotective agents capable of enhancing the body's resilience to radiation therapy. By integrating natural radioprotectors into cancer treatment regimens, clinicians may improve therapeutic outcomes while minimizing the adverse effects on healthy tissues. Ongoing research in this area holds promise for developing complementary strategies to optimize radiotherapy efficacy and enhance patient quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Stasiłowicz-Krzemień
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.); (A.G.)
| | - Anna Gościniak
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.); (A.G.)
| | - Dorota Formanowicz
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 8, 60-806 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Judyta Cielecka-Piontek
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (A.S.-K.); (A.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gomes OJS, Leitão A, Gaspar MC, Vitorino C, Sousa JJS, de Sousa HC, Braga MEM, Gando-Ferreira LM. Fortified chocolate mousse with powder and extract from Moringa oleifera leaves for nutritional value improvement. Food Chem 2024; 441:138338. [PMID: 38194794 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.138338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
This study focuses on the characterisation and incorporation of Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOP) from Luanda (Angola) and its extract (MOE) in fortified chocolate mousse. Dark green (DG) leaves presented superior nutritional values compared to other leaves. DG contained a higher concentration of mineral salts (10 ± 1 mg/100 g of dry leaves), phenolic compounds (267 ± 4 mg GAE/g), vitamins (1.9 ± 0.2 mg/g of dry extract) and strong antioxidant capacity (IC50, 115 ± 8 µg/mL). Therefore, DG leaves were used to fortify the chocolate mousse. The leaves were prepared in three samples: control, 2 % MOP (w/w) and 2 % MOE (v/v). Textural and rheological analysis of chocolate mousse samples revealed a pseudoplastic profile for all samples, with decreased texture attributes and viscosity due to the incorporation. The sensory evaluation demonstrated that MOP and MOE samples presented 93 % and 88 % resemblance to the original product regarding general acceptance, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olívia J S Gomes
- University of Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Pólo II, Rua Sílvio Lima, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anabela Leitão
- LESRA-Laboratory of Separation, Reaction and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Agostinho Neto University, Av. Ho Chimin no 201, Luanda, Angola
| | - Marisa C Gaspar
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal; ESSLei-School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Carla Vitorino
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Chemistry Centre, Institute of Molecular Sciences-IMS, Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João J S Sousa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Chemistry Centre, Institute of Molecular Sciences-IMS, Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Hermínio C de Sousa
- University of Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Pólo II, Rua Sílvio Lima, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mara E M Braga
- University of Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Pólo II, Rua Sílvio Lima, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Licínio M Gando-Ferreira
- University of Coimbra, CIEPQPF, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Pólo II, Rua Sílvio Lima, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chiavaroli A, Di Simone SC, Acquaviva A, Nilofar N, Libero ML, Brunetti L, Recinella L, Leone S, Orlando G, Zengin G, Di Vito M, Menghini L, Ferrante C. Neuromodulatory Effects Induced by the Association of Moringa oleifera Lam., Tribulus terrestris L., Rhodiola rosea Lam., and Undaria pinnatidifida Extracts in the Hypothalamus. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202302075. [PMID: 38527165 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202302075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
The present study investigated the role of a commercial formulation constituted by herbal extracts from Rhodiola rosea, Undaria pinnatifida, Tribulus terrestris, and Moringa oleifera. The formulation was analysed for determining the content in total phenols and flavonoids and scavenging/reducing properties. The formulation was also tested on isolated mouse hypothalamus in order to investigate effects on serotonin, dopamine, neuropeptide Y (NPY), and orexin A. The gene expression of gonadrotopin releasing hormone (GnRH) was also assayed. The formulation was able to reduce dopamine and serotonin turnover, and this could be related, albeit partially, to the capability of different phytochemicals, among which hyperoside and catechin to inhibit monoaminooxidases activity. In parallel, the formulation was effective in reducing the gene expression of NPY and orexin-A and to improve the gene expression of GnRH. In this context, the increased GnRH gene expression induced by the formulation may contribute not only to improve the resistance towards the stress related to ageing, but also to prevent the reduction of libido that could be related with a stimulation of the serotoninergic pathway. According to the in silico analysis, hyperoside could play a pivotal role in modulating the gene expression of GnRH. Regarding NPY and orexin A gene expression, no direct interactions between the formulation phytochemicals and these neuropeptides were anticipated; thus, suggesting that the pattern of gene expression observed following exposure of the hypothalamus to the formulation may be secondary to inhibitory effects of dopamine and serotonin turnover. Concluding, the present study demonstrated the efficacy of the formulation in exerting neuromodulatory effects at the hypothalamic level; thus, suggesting the potential to contrast stress and fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Chiavaroli
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Simonetta Cristina Di Simone
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Alessandra Acquaviva
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Nilofar Nilofar
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Maria Loreta Libero
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Lucia Recinella
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Sheila Leone
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giustino Orlando
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Gokhan Zengin
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Science Faculty, Selcuk University, 42130, Konya, Turkey
| | - Maura Di Vito
- Dipartimento di Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A., Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Menghini
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Claudio Ferrante
- Department of Pharmacy, Botanic Garden "Giardino dei Semplici", "G. d'Annunzio" University, via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cergel E, Tuzuner BA, Turkyilmaz IB, Oktay S, Magaji UF, Sacan O, Yanardag R, Yarat A. Reversal of Valproate-Induced Major Salivary Gland Changes By Moringa Oleifera Extract in Rats. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202301959. [PMID: 38469951 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202301959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the potential protective impacts of Moringa oleifera extract on major alteration in salivary glands of rats exposed to sodium valproate (VA). Groups were defined as control, control+moringa extract, sodium valproate, and sodium valproate+moringa extract. Antioxidant and oxidant status, activities of digestive and metabolic enzymes were examined. VA treatment led to various biochemical changes in the salivary glands, including decreased levels of antioxidants like glutathione, glutathione-S-transferase, and superoxide dismutase (except for sublingual superoxide dismutase). Conversely, a decrease in alpha-amylase, alkaline and acid phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, protease, and maltase activities were observed. The study also demonstrated that VA induces oxidative stress, increases lipid peroxidation, sialic acid, and nitric oxide levels in the salivary glands. Total oxidant capacity was raised in all glands except in the sublingual gland. The electrophoretic patterns of proteins were similar. Moringa oleifera extract exhibited protective properties, reversing these VA-induced biochemical changes due to its antioxidant and therapeutic attributes. This research suggests that moringa extract might serve as an alternative treatment approach for individuals using VA and experiencing salivary gland issues, although further research is necessary to confirm these findings in human subjects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eda Cergel
- Biochemistry Master of Science Student, Health Sciences Institute, Marmara University, Maltepe, Istanbul, Turkiye
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Halic University, Eyupsultan, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Burcin Alev Tuzuner
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul Gelisim University, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkiye
- Life Sciences and Biomedical Engineering Application and Research Centre, Istanbul Gelisim University, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Ismet Burcu Turkyilmaz
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Sehkar Oktay
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Biochemistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Maltepe, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Umar Faruk Magaji
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkiye
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria
| | - Ozlem Sacan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Refiye Yanardag
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkiye
| | - Aysen Yarat
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Biochemistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Maltepe, Istanbul, Turkiye
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Twinomujuni SS, Atukunda EC, Mukonzo JK, Nicholas M, Roelofsen F, Ogwang PE. Evaluation of the effects of Artemisia Annua L. and Moringa Oleifera Lam. on CD4 count and viral load among PLWH on ART at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital: a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial. AIDS Res Ther 2024; 21:22. [PMID: 38627722 PMCID: PMC11020329 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-024-00609-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Initiation of ART among people living with HIV (PLWH) having a CD4 count ≤ 350cells/µl, produces poor immunological recovery, putting them at a high risk of opportunistic infections. To mitigate this, PLWH on ART in Uganda frequently use herbal remedies like Artemisia annua and Moringa oleifera, but their clinical benefits and potential antiretroviral (ARV) interactions remain unknown. This study examined the impact of A. annua and M. oleifera on CD4 count, viral load, and potential ARV interactions among PLWH on ART at an HIV clinic in Uganda. METHODS 282 HIV-positive participants on antiretroviral therapy (ART) with a CD4 count ≤ 350cells/µl were randomized in a double-blind clinical trial to receive daily, in addition to their routine standard of care either; 1) A. annua leaf powder, 2) A. annua plus M. oleifera, and 3) routine standard of care only. Change in the CD4 count at 12 months was our primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included changes in viral load, complete blood count, and ARV plasma levels. Participants were followed up for a year and outcomes were measured at baseline, 6 and 12 months. RESULTS At 12 months of patient follow-up, in addition to standard of care, administration of A. annua + M. oleifera resulted in an absolute mean CD4 increment of 105.06 cells/µl, (p < 0.001), while administration of A. annua plus routine standard of care registered an absolute mean CD4 increment of 60.84 cells/µl, (p = 0.001) compared to the control group. The A. annua plus M. oleifera treatment significantly reduced viral load (p = 0.022) and increased platelet count (p = 0.025) and white blood cell counts (p = 0.003) compared to standard care alone, with no significant difference in ARV plasma levels across the groups. CONCLUSION A combination of A. annua and M. oleifera leaf powders taken once a day together with the routine standard of care produced a significant increase in CD4 count, WBCs, platelets, and viral load suppression among individuals on ART. A. annua and M. oleifera have potential to offer an affordable alternative remedy for managing HIV infection, particularly in low-resource communities lacking ART access. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03366922.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvano S Twinomujuni
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda.
| | - Esther C Atukunda
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Jackson K Mukonzo
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Musinguzi Nicholas
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Felicitas Roelofsen
- Action for Natural Medicine in the Tropics (ANAMED INTERNATIONAL), Winnenden, Germany
| | - Patrick E Ogwang
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|