A systematic review on phenolic compounds in Passiflora plants: Exploring biodiversity for food, nutrition, and popular medicine

A Scoping Review on Carotenoid Profiling in Passiflora spp.: A Vast Avenue for Expanding the Knowledge on the Species

The Passiflora genus is recognised for its ethnopharmacological, sensorial, and nutritional significance. Yet, the screening of its dietary and bioactive molecules has mainly targeted hydrophilic metabolites. Following the PRISMA-P protocol, this review assessed the current knowledge on carotenoid composition and analysis within Passiflora, examining 968 records from seven databases and including 17 studies focusing on carotenoid separation and identification in plant parts. Those publications originated in America and Asia. P. edulis was the most frequently examined species of a total of ten, while pulp was the most studied plant part (16 studies). Carotenoid analysis involved primarily high-performance liquid chromatography separation on C18 columns and detection using diode array detectors (64.71%). Most studies identified the provitamin A β-carotene and xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin, with their geometric configuration often neglected. Only one study described carotenoid esters. Besides the methodology's insufficient description, the lack of use of more accurate techniques and practices led to a high risk of bias in the carotenoid assignment in 17.65% of the articles. This review highlights the opportunity to broaden carotenoid studies to other species and parts within the diverse Passiflora genus, especially to wild, locally available fruits, which may have a strategic role in enhancing food diversity and security amidst climatic changes. Additionally, it urges the use of more accurate and efficient analytical methods based on green chemistry to better identify Passiflora carotenoids.

Vitexin-loaded poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether-grafted chitosan/alginate nanoparticles: preparation, physicochemical properties and in vitro release behaviors

BACKGROUND

Vitexin, a flavonoid in various foods and medicinal plants, has potential clinical, therapeutic and food applications due to its bioactive properties and beneficial health effects. However, its poor water solubility causes low oral bioavailability and poor absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, limiting its practical applications. Encapsulation is an efficient approach to overcome these limitations. This study demonstrates the encapsulation of vitexin into poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether-grafted chitosan (mPEG-g-CTS)/alginate (ALG) polyelectrolyte complex nanoparticles.

RESULTS

The vitexin-loaded mPEG-g-CTS/ALG nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The vitexin-loaded mPEG-g-CTS/ALG nanoparticles had a spherical shape, 50-200 nm in diameter, and negatively charged surface (-27 to -38 mV). They possessed a loading capacity of 4-60%, encapsulation efficiency of 50-100% and antioxidant activity (30-52% 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl decoloration) when their initial vitexin content was 0.02-0.64 g g-1 polymers. Successful vitexin loading into mPEG-g-CTS/ALG nanoparticles was also indirectly confirmed by the enhanced thermal stability of both polymers and the residual soybean oil used in the emulsion preparation step and delayed oxidative degradation of the residual soybean oil. Vitexin's in vitro release from the mPEG-g-CTS/ALG nanoparticles was very fast in phosphate buffer at pH 11, followed by pH 7, and very slow in acetate buffer at pH 3. The gastrointestinal digestion of vitexin increased by encapsulating into mPEG-g-CTS/ALG nanoparticles.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitexin-loaded mPEG-g-CTS/ALG nanoparticles were successfully fabricated using a two-step process of oil-in-water emulsion and ionic gelation without the use of pungent odor acids and other crosslinkers. The obtained nanoparticles are suitable for oral intestinal-specific delivery systems. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Sub-acute toxicity evaluation of aqueous leaf extract from Passiflora edulis Sims f. edulis (Gulupa) in Wistar rats

The genus Passiflora (Passifloraceae) comprises about 500 species. The Passiflora edulis stands out because of its economic and medicinal importance. It is widely planted in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, especially in South America, the Caribbean, South Africa, and Asia. The aqueous extract of Passiflora edulis Sims f. edulis (Gulupa) leaves is used in traditional medicine for its soothing and tranquilizing effects on the central nervous system. Therefore, evaluating its safety for human use is a fundamental requirement to continue the development of new therapies within the framework of regulatory, preclinical, and clinical guidelines. Here, the sub-acute toxicity study was conducted following the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guideline 407 for 28 days in Wistar albino rats. The study showed that 1000 mg/kg/day of the aqueous extract in 10 adult Wistar rats (five males and five females) was well tolerated. The hematological results are at normal levels. However, monocytopenia and eosinopenia were observed with a significant difference (P < 0,05) for both male and female rats treated with the aqueous extract of Passiflora edulis. The results show that liver and kidney function profiles were conserved. However, an increase in ALT is observed with significant differences between male and female rats treated with the extract compared to the controls. Study findings were limited to non-adverse histopathological results of a slightly increased incidence of focal periportal lymphocytic infiltrate in the liver and focal corticomedullary nephrocalcinosis in the kidney compared to control. Therefore, the aqueous extract of Passiflora edulis has a good safety profile in oral administration, was well tolerated, and did not cause any lethality or adverse effects in the sub-acute toxicity study in male and female rats. The NOAEL (no observed adverse effect level) for the 28-day subacute toxicity study was considered to be 1000 mg/kg.

Phytochemical Profiling and Biological Activities of Quercus sp. Galls (Oak Galls): A Systematic Review of Studies Published in the Last 5 Years

Quercus species have been widely used in traditional medicine, and recently, researchers' attention has focused on galls of the genus Quercus as a source of health-promoting phytochemicals. This review presents a summary of the most recent findings on the phytochemistry and bioactivity of oak galls, following the screening of scientific papers published in two relevant databases, PubMed and Embase, between January 2018 and June 2023. The oak galls are rich in active compounds, mostly gallotannins and phenolic acids. Due to these secondary metabolites, the reviewed studies have demonstrated a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, antimicrobial properties, tissue-protective effects, and antitumor, anti-aging, and hypoglycemic potential. Thus, oak galls are a promising natural matrix, to be considered in obtaining pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations used in anti-aging strategies and, together with medications, in the management of age-related diseases. In further evaluations, the valuable functional properties of oak galls, reported mostly in preclinical studies, should be confirmed with clinical studies that would also take into account the potential health risks of their use.

Phytochemistry, nutritional composition, health benefits and future prospects of Passiflora: A review

Passiflora, also known as "passion fruit", is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It is not only eaten raw but is also widely used in processed foods. Various extracts, juices and isolated compounds show a wide range of health effects and biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, sedative, and neuroprotective effects. In this review, we not only review the phytochemical properties of Passiflora but also highlight the potential of Passiflora for food applications and the use of all parts as a source of ingredients for medicines and cosmetics that promote health and well-being. This will provide theoretical support for the integrated use of such natural products.

Glycosides as Potential Medicinal Components for Ulcerative Colitis: A Review

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, non-specific disease of unknown etiology. The disease develops mainly in the rectum or colon, and the main clinical symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and purulent bloody stools, with a wide variation in severity. The specific causative factors and pathogenesis of the disease are not yet clear, but most scholars believe that the disease is caused by the interaction of genetic, environmental, infectious, immune, and intestinal flora factors. As for the treatment of UC, medications are commonly used in clinical practice, mainly including aminosalicylates, glucocorticoids, and immunosuppressive drugs. However, due to the many complications associated with conventional drug therapy and the tendency for UC to recur, there is an urgent need to discover new, safer, and more effective drugs. Natural compounds with biodiversity and chemical structure diversity from medicinal plants are the most reliable source for the development of new drug precursors. Evidence suggests that glycosides may reduce the development and progression of UC by modulating anti-inflammatory responses, inhibiting oxidative stress, suppressing abnormal immune responses, and regulating signal transduction. In this manuscript, we provide a review of the epidemiology of UC and the available drugs for disease prevention and treatment. In addition, we demonstrate the protective or therapeutic role of glycosides in UC and describe the possible mechanisms of action to provide a theoretical basis for preclinical studies in drug development.

Development and Characterization of Yellow Passion Fruit Peel Flour (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa)

In this study, the peels of the yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) were used to develop a flour that was evaluated in terms of its physicochemical, microscopic, colorimetric, and granulometric characteristics, its total phenolic compound and carotenoid contents, and its antioxidant capacity. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy measurements were employed to investigate the constituent functional groups, compounds' chemical profiles were assessed by Paper Spray Mass Spectrometry (PS-MS), and the compound's chemical profiles were evaluated by Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC). This flour presented a light color, heterogeneous granulometry, high carbohydrate, carotenoid, and total phenolic compound contents with high antioxidant capacity. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed a particulate flour, which is supposed to contribute to its compactness. FTIR demonstrated the presence of functional groups corresponding to cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, constituents of insoluble dietary fiber. The PS-MS analysis suggested the presence of 22 substances, covering diverse component classes such as organic, fatty, and phenolic acids, flavonoids, sugars, quinones, phenylpropanoid glycerides terpenes, and amino acids. This research demonstrated the potential of using Passion Fruit Peel Flour (PFPF) as an ingredient for food products. The advantages of using PFPF comprise the reduction of agro-industrial waste, contribution to the development of a sustainable food system, and increment of food products' functional profile. Moreover, its high content of several bioactive compounds can benefit consumers' health.

Plant Growth Promotion and Biocontrol of Leaf Blight Caused by Nigrospora sphaerica on Passion Fruit by Endophytic Bacillus subtilis Strain GUCC4

Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims) is widely cultivated in tropic and sub-tropic regions for the production of fruit, flowers, cosmetics, and for pharmacological applications. Its high economic, nutritional, and medical values elicit the market demand, and the growing areas are rapidly increasing. Leaf blight caused by Nigrospora sphaerica is a new and emerging disease of passion fruit in Guizhou, in southwest China, where the unique karst mountainous landscape and climate conditions are considered potential areas of expansion for passion fruit production. Bacillus species are the most common biocontrol and plant-growth-promotion bacteria (PGPB) resources in agricultural systems. However, little is known about the endophytic existence of Bacillus spp. in the passion fruit phyllosphere as well as their potential as biocontrol agents and PGPB. In this study, 44 endophytic strains were isolated from 15 healthy passion fruit leaves, obtained from Guangxi province, China. Through purification and molecular identification, 42 of the isolates were ascribed to Bacillus species. Their inhibitory activity against N. sphaerica was tested in vitro. Eleven endophytic Bacillus spp. strains inhibited the pathogen by >65%. All of them produced biocontrol- and plant-growth-promotion-related metabolites, including indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), protease, cellulase, phosphatase, and solubilized phosphate. Furthermore, the plant growth promotion traits of the above 11 endophytic Bacillus strains were tested on passion fruit seedlings. One isolate, coded B. subtilis GUCC4, significantly increased passion fruit stem diameter, plant height, leaf length, leaf surface, fresh weight, and dry weight. In addition, B. subtilis GUCC4 reduced the proline content, which indicated its potential to positively regulate passion fruit biochemical properties and resulted in plant growth promotion effects. Finally, the biocontrol efficiencies of B. subtilis GUCC4 against N. sphaerica were determined in vivo under greenhouse conditions. Similarly to the fungicide mancozeb and to a commercial B. subtilis-based biofungicide, B. subtilis GUCC4 significantly reduced disease severity. These results suggest that B. subtilis GUCC4 has great potential as a biological control agent and as PGPB on passion fruit.

Constituents of Passiflora incarnata, but Not of Valeriana officinalis, Interact with the Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptides (OATP)2B1 and OATP1A2

Herbal medication used in the treatment of sleep disorders and anxiety often contain extracts of Valeriana officinalis or Passiflora incarnata. Valerenic acid in V. officinalis and apigenin, orientin, and vitexin in P. incarnata are thought to contribute to their therapeutic effect. It was the aim of this study to test whether these constituents of herbal extracts are interacting with the uptake of estrone 3-sulfate, pregnenolone sulfate, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate mediated by the uptake transporters organic anion transporting polypeptide 2B1 (OATP2B1) or organic anion transporting polypeptide 1A2 (OATP1A2). Madin-Darby canine kidney cells overexpressing OATP2B1 or OATP1A2 were used to determine the influence of the constituents on the cellular accumulation of the sulfated steroids. Subsequently, competitive counterflow experiments were applied to test whether identified inhibitors are also substrates of the transporters. Valerenic acid only interacted with OATP2B1, whereas apigenin, orientin, and vitexin interacted with OATP2B1 and OATP1A2. Competitive counterflow revealed that orientin is a substrate of both transporters, while apigenin was transported by OATP1A2 and vitexin by OATP2B1. In a next step, commercially available P. incarnata preparations were assessed for their influence on the transporters, revealing inhibition of transporter-mediated estrone 3-sulfate uptake. HPLC-UV-MS analysis confirmed the presence of orientin and vitexin in these preparations, thereby suggesting that these constituents are involved in the interaction. Our data indicate that constituents of P. incarnata may alter the function of OATP2B1 and OATP1A2, which could affect the uptake of other compounds relying on uptake mediated by the transporters.

Brazilian passion fruit as a new healthy food: from its composition to health properties and mechanisms of action

The Brazilian biodiversity is one of the largest in the world, with about 41 000 species cataloged within two global biodiversity hotspots: Atlantic Forest and Cerrado, the Brazilian savannah. Passiflora, known also as passion flowers, is a genus of which 96% of its species are distributed in the Americas, mainly Brazil and Colombia. Passion fruit extracts have a commercial value on a global scale through the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, self-care, and food and beverage industries. Passiflora are widely studied due to their potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, antidepressant and vascular and neuronal protective effects, probably owing to their content of polyphenols. Passiflora setacea DC is a species of wild passion fruit from the Brazilian Cerrado, rich in flavonoid C-glycosides, homoorientin, vitexin, isovitexin and orientin. Intake of these plant food bioactives has been associated with protection against chronic non-communicable diseases (CNDCs), including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we aimed to discuss the varieties of Passiflora, their content in plant food bioactives and their potential molecular mechanisms of action in preventing or reversing CNDCs.

In Vitro Liver Metabolism of Six Flavonoid C-Glycosides

Several medical plants belonging to the genera Passiflora, Viola, and Crataegus accumulate flavonoid C-glycosides, which likely contribute to their efficacy. Information regarding their phase I and II metabolism in the liver are lacking. Thus, in vitro liver metabolism of orientin, isoorientin, schaftoside, isoschaftoside, vitexin, and isovitexin, all of which accumulated in Passiflora incarnata L., was investigated by incubation in subcellular systems with human liver microsomes and human liver S9 fraction. All metabolite profiles were comprehensively characterized using HPLC-DAD and UHPLC–MS/MS analysis. Mono-glycosylic flavones of the luteolin-type orientin and isoorientin showed a broad range of mono-glucuronidated and mono-sulfated metabolites, whereas for mono-glycosylic flavones of the apigenin-type vitexin and isovitexin, only mono-glucuronidates could be detected. For di-glycosylic flavones of the apigenin-type schaftosid and isoschaftosid, no phase I or II metabolites were identified. The main metabolite of isoorientin was isolated using solid-phase extraction and prep. HPLC-DAD and identified as isoorientin-3′-O-α-glucuronide by NMR analysis. A second isolated glucuronide was assigned as isoorientin 4′-O-α-glucuronide. These findings indicate that vitexin and isovitexin are metabolized preferentially by uridine 5′-diphospho glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) in the liver. As only orientin and isoorientin showed mono-sulfated and mono-glucuronidated metabolites, the dihydroxy group in 3′,4′-position may be essential for additional sulfation by sulfotransferases (SULTs) in the liver. The diglycosylic flavones schaftoside and isoschaftoside are likely not accepted as substrates of the used liver enzymes under the chosen conditions.

Pharmacologic Activities of Plant-Derived Natural Products on Respiratory Diseases and Inflammations

Respiratory inflammation is caused by an air-mediated disease induced by polluted air, smoke, bacteria, and viruses. The COVID-19 pandemic is also a kind of respiratory disease, induced by a virus causing a serious effect on the lungs, bronchioles, and pharynges that results in oxygen deficiency. Extensive research has been conducted to find out the potent natural products that help to prevent, treat, and manage respiratory diseases. Traditionally, wider floras were reported to be used, such as Morus alba, Artemisia indica, Azadirachta indica, Calotropis gigantea, but only some of the potent compounds from some of the plants have been scientifically validated. Plant-derived natural products such as colchicine, zingerone, forsythiaside A, mangiferin, glycyrrhizin, curcumin, and many other compounds are found to have a promising effect on treating and managing respiratory inflammation. In this review, current clinically approved drugs along with the efficacy and side effects have been studied. The study also focuses on the traditional uses of medicinal plants on reducing respiratory complications and their bioactive phytoconstituents. The pharmacological evidence of lowering respiratory complications by plant-derived natural products has been critically studied with detailed mechanism and action. However, the scientific validation of such compounds requires clinical study and evidence on animal and human models to replace modern commercial medicine.

Beneficial Effects of Plant Extracts and Bioactive Food Components in Childhood Supplementation

The pivotal role of childhood nutrition has always roused a growing interest from the scientific community. Plant extracts and bioactive dietary components play a significant role in the maintenance of human health and wellness, with the potential to modulate risk factors and manage symptoms for a large number of common childhood disorders such as memory impairment, respiratory illnesses, gastrointestinal disorders, metabolic derangements, and pathologies related to the oral cavity. This review is designed to highlight the health benefits of botanical extracts and bioactive dietary components in children as evidenced by clinical trials, considering their safety with regards to childhood sensibilities. The supplementation of children with the herbal extracts or bioactive components mentioned in this review leads to the conclusion that they are useful for treating various ailments, with no serious adverse events being reported. However, for the limited number of investigations specifically focused on the safety of such products in children, time is needed to expand the literature data covering the safety of childhood supplementation with botanical extract and bioactive food components.

Brazilian native passion fruit (Passiflora tenuifila Killip) is a rich source of proanthocyanidins, carotenoids, and dietary fiber

Passiflora tenuifila is a Brazilian native passion fruit consumed by the local population and is a dietary source of bioactive compounds with potential biological activity. The aim of this study is to evaluate the nutritional value of P. tenuifila fruit and its bioactive compounds at two ripening stages. Three batches of fruit were collected at mature-green and ripe stages, and phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and polyamines were analyzed by HPLC-DAD and LC-MS/MS. The fruit is a good source of dietary fiber. Proanthocyanidin dimers are the major phenolic compounds (up to 84%) at both stages, followed by the C-glycosylated luteolin. Lutein and β-carotene are the major carotenoids, contributing up to 50% of total carotenoids. The OPLS-DA segregates the mature-green and ripe fruits, as carotenoids are responsible for this separation. In conclusion, passion fruit can be consumed at both stages of maturation without losses of bioactive compound contents or nutritional value.

Cladodes: Chemical and structural properties, biological activity, and polyphenols profile

The nopal cactus is an essential part of the Mexican diet and culture. The per capita consumption of young cladodes averages annually to 6.4 kg across the nation. In addition to contributing to the country's food culture, the nopal is considered a food with functional characteristics since, in addition to providing fiber, an important group of polyphenolic compounds is present, which has given cladodes to be considered a healthy food, for what they have been incorporated into the diet of Mexican people and many other countries worldwide. Research suggests that polyphenols from cladodes act as antioxidants and antidiabetics. This review studies the main phenolic components in cladodes and summarizes both conventional and novel methods to identify them.

In Vitro Metabolism of Six C-Glycosidic Flavonoids from Passiflora incarnata L

Several medical plants, such as Passiflora incarnata L., contain C-glycosylated flavonoids, which may contribute to their efficacy. Information regarding the bioavailability and metabolism of these compounds is essential, but not sufficiently available. Therefore, the metabolism of the C-glycosylated flavones orientin, isoorientin, schaftoside, isoschaftoside, vitexin, and isovitexin was investigated using the Caco-2 cell line as an in vitro intestinal and epithelial metabolism model. Isovitexin, orientin, and isoorientin showed broad ranges of phase I and II metabolites containing hydroxylated, methoxylated, and sulfated compounds, whereas schaftoside, isoschaftoside, and vitexin underwent poor metabolism. All metabolites were identified via UHPLC-MS or UHPLC-MS/MS using compound libraries containing all conceivable metabolites. Some structures were confirmed via UHPLC-MS experiments with reference compounds after a cleavage reaction using glucuronidase and sulfatase. Of particular interest is the observed cleavage of the C–C bonds between sugar and aglycone residues in isovitexin, orientin, and isoorientin, resulting in unexpected glucuronidated or sulfated luteolin and apigenin derivatives. These findings indicate that C-glycosidic flavones can be highly metabolized in the intestine. In particular, flavonoids with ortho-dihydroxy groups showed sulfated metabolites. The identified glucuronidated or sulfated aglycones demonstrate that enzymes expressed by Caco-2 cells are able to potentially cleave C–C bonds in vitro.

Cross-Species Comparison of Metabolomics to Decipher the Metabolic Diversity in Ten Fruits

Fruits provide humans with multiple kinds of nutrients and protect humans against worldwide nutritional deficiency. Therefore, it is essential to understand the nutrient composition of various fruits in depth. In this study, we performed LC-MS-based non-targeted metabolomic analyses with ten kinds of fruit, including passion fruit, mango, starfruit, mangosteen, guava, mandarin orange, grape, apple, blueberry, and strawberry. In total, we detected over 2500 compounds and identified more than 300 nutrients. Although the ten fruits shared 909 common-detected compounds, each species accumulated a variety of species-specific metabolites. Additionally, metabolic profiling analyses revealed a constant variation in each metabolite’s content across the ten fruits. Moreover, we constructed a neighbor-joining tree using metabolomic data, which resembles the single-copy protein-based phylogenetic tree. This indicates that metabolome data could reflect the genetic relationship between different species. In conclusion, our work enriches knowledge on the metabolomics of fruits, and provides metabolic evidence for the genetic relationships among these fruits.

Chromosome-scale genome assembly provides insights into the evolution and flavor synthesis of passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims)

Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims) is an economically valuable fruit that is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Here, we report an ~1341.7 Mb chromosome-scale genome assembly of passion fruit, with 98.91% (~1327.18 Mb) of the assembly assigned to nine pseudochromosomes. The genome includes 23,171 protein-coding genes, and most of the assembled sequences are repetitive sequences, with long-terminal repeats (LTRs) being the most abundant. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that passion fruit diverged after Brassicaceae and before Euphorbiaceae. Ks analysis showed that two whole-genome duplication events occurred in passion fruit at 65 MYA and 12 MYA, which may have contributed to its large genome size. An integrated analysis of genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic data showed that 'alpha-linolenic acid metabolism', 'metabolic pathways', and 'secondary metabolic pathways' were the main pathways involved in the synthesis of important volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in passion fruit, and this analysis identified some candidate genes, including GDP-fucose Transporter 1-like, Tetratricopeptide repeat protein 33, protein NETWORKED 4B isoform X1, and Golgin Subfamily A member 6-like protein 22. In addition, we identified 13 important gene families in fatty acid pathways and eight important gene families in terpene pathways. Gene family analysis showed that the ACX, ADH, ALDH, and HPL gene families, especially ACX13/14/15/20, ADH13/26/33, ALDH1/4/21, and HPL4/6, were the key genes for ester synthesis, while the TPS gene family, especially PeTPS2/3/4/24, was the key gene family for terpene synthesis. This work provides insights into genome evolution and flavor trait biology and offers valuable resources for the improved cultivation of passion fruit.

Development and application of green and sustainable analytical methods for flavonoid extraction from Passiflora waste

Brazilian biodiversity and favourable environmental conditions open up possibilities not yet explored, showing potential to shift the country's monochromatic economy into an emancipated, diversified and sustainable economic environment. This can be made possible through the integral use of its resources, exploring every functional fraction to create novel solutions to modern problems. Biorefineries present an interesting strategy to fully use the potential of agricultural feedstocks and together with green separation methods can contribute to the generation of sustainable processes and products. Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa Deg species) is produced on a large scale in Brazil and in other tropical countries, and its processing plants generate tons of residues that basically consist of peel, seeds and bagasse, which account for around 75% of its mass. These fractions of P. edulis can contain significant amounts of flavonoids, secondary metabolites that are the main compounds responsible for the fruit's bioactivity (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, pesticide and biocide, in general). Therefore, this work aims to develop, apply and compare the best conditions for the extraction of isoorientin, orientin and isovitexin from passion fruit applying solid-liquid methodologies, followed by analyte quantification using UHPLC-PDA. Homogenizer-assisted (HAE), ultrasound-assisted (UAE) and microwave-assisted (MAE) extraction techniques were used, as well as a full factorial design to reach optimal parameters concerning the extraction yield and energy and solvent efficiencies. According to the results, the procedure based on HAE presented the best conditions for the extraction of selected flavonoids (1.07, 0.90 and 0.33 mg g-1 of isoorientin, orientin and isovitexin, respectively) and was considered the best method according to the green and sustainable described factors.

Antibiofilm potential of Psidium guajava and Passiflora edulis pulp extracts against Staphylococcus aureus, cytotoxicity, and interference on the activity of antimicrobial drugs

Background

Pathogenic strains of Staphylococcus aureus can cause several diseases including septicemia and endocarditis, in spite of being a commensal species of the human microbiota. The current drug resistance of S. aureus raises the need for new antimicrobials, and natural products represent a feasible source for prospection of such compounds, due to features including the diversity of structures and mechanisms of action. Here, we provide evidence of the antimicrobial activity of methanolic of Psidium guajava and Passiflora edulis pulps against planktonic cells and biofilms of clinical isolates of S. aureus.

Results

The extracts were effective against the strains in concentrations up to 7.81 and 250 μg/mL for planktonic cells and biofilms, respectively. Antagonistic interactions of the extracts to antimicrobial drugs were observed. The pulps caused no cytotoxic effects on BGM cells. GC-MS analysis found relevant molecules, and UPLC analysis suggested the presence of flavonoids. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first antibiofilm evidence of such extracts.

Conclusion

The extracts seem to be safe and effective enough for more studies aiming at exploring isolated antimicrobial molecules using in vivo models for the treatment of staphylococcal diseases.

Extraction Processes with Several Solvents on Total Bioactive Compounds in Different Organs of Three Medicinal Plants

The extraction of secondary metabolites by water, MeOH:water (8:2) containing NaF, methanol, ethanol and acetone (all of them diluted (7:3) in water)from the different parts (leaves, flowers, stems and roots) of Passiflora caerulea L., Physalis peruviana L. and Solanum muricatum Aiton via decoction and maceration methods was studied. The highest extraction yields were recorded by methanol for decoction and acetone for maceration. The total polyphenol content (TPC) obtained by decoction had the highest TPC contents, and MeOH containing NaF was the best solvent for the extraction of TPC. Maceration was suitable for flavonoid extractions, with ethanol and acetone being the best solvents. In general, the highest levels of TPC and flavonoids were obtained from Passiflora leaves regardless of the solvent or extraction method applied. Furthermore, the roots of Physalis and Solanum showed important levels of these compounds in consonance with the total antioxidant activity (TAA) evaluated in the different organs of the plant in the three species. In this study, the solvents and extraction methods applied were tools that determined significantly the level of extraction of bioactive compounds, showing a different impact on plant organs for each medicinal species studied.

In vitro evaluation of potential prebiotic effects of a freeze-dried juice from Pilosocereus gounellei (A. Weber ex K. Schum. Bly. Ex Rowl) cladodes, an unconventional edible plant from Caatinga biome

This study evaluated in vitro the potential prebiotic effects of a freeze-dried juice extracted from cladodes of Pilosocereus gounellei (A. Weber ex K. Schum.) Bly. Ex Rowl, an unconventional edible plant from Brazilian Caatinga biome and popularly known as xique-xique. Prebiotic effects of freeze-dried xique-xique cladode juice (XCJ, 20 g/L) were evaluated by measurements of prebiotic activity scores and stimulatory effects on growth and metabolic activities of probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-05, L. casei L-26 and L. paracasei L-10, which are beneficial species found as part of human gut microbiota. XCJ showed positive prebiotic activity scores on all examined probiotics, indicating a selective stimulatory effect on these microorganisms in detriment to enteric pathogens. Examined probiotics had high viable counts (> 8 log CFU/mL) after 48 h of cultivation in media with XCJ (20 g/L), representing an increase of > 2 log CFU/mL when compared to viable counts found on time zero. Cultivation of probiotics in media with XCJ resulted in decreased pH during the 48 h-incubation. Contents of fructose and glucose decreased in media with XCJ inoculated with L. acidophilus LA-05, L. casei L-26 or L. paracasei L-10 during the 48 h-cultivation, in parallel with an increase in contents of acetic and lactic acids. Measured effects of XCJ on probiotics were overall similar to those exerted by fructoligosaccharides (20 g/L), a proven prebiotic ingredient. These results showed that XCJ could exert selective stimulatory effects on different Lactobacillus species, which are indicative of potential prebiotic properties.

Pharmacological Properties and Chemical Profiles of Passiflora foetida L. Extracts: Novel Insights for Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals

In the present study, Passiflora foetida extracts characterized by different polarities were studied for their phytochemical profile, enzyme inhibitory, and antioxidant potentials. In silico, in vitro and ex vivo studies were also carried out on methanol and water extracts for predicting pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. In this regard, neuronal HypoE22 cells, isolated mouse skin tissues, and pathogen dermatophytes strains were exposed to extracts. Emphasis was given to the preventing effects induced by the extracts on hydrogen peroxide-induced alterations of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), l-dopa, and serotonin. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of similar compounds in infusion and methanolic extracts. The ex vivo studies also showed protective skin properties by P. foetida water and methanol extracts, as evidenced by the decrease of hydrogen peroxide-induced PGE2 level. Additionally, the blunting effects on hydrogen peroxide-induced l-dopa levels are consistent with the anti-tyrosinase effect exerted by both extracts. In silico studies demonstrated the affinity of extracts’ phytochemicals, namely apigenin, chrysoeriol, loliolide, luteolin, quercetin, and vitexin, towards cyclo-oxygenase-2 and tyrosinase. Finally, microbiological tests demonstrated the efficacy of P. foetida methanol and water extracts as anti-mycotic agents against Trichophyton and Arthroderma species, involved in skin inflammation. Hence, P. foetida L. extracts could represent potential sources of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.

Review of the effects of vitexin in oxidative stress-related diseases

Vitexin is an apigenin flavone glycoside found in food and medicinal plants. It has a variety of pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antinociceptive, and neuroprotective effects. This review study summarizes all the protective effects of vitexin as an antioxidant against reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, and other oxidative damages in a variety of oxidative stress-related diseases, including seizure, memory impairment, cerebral ischemia, neurotoxicity, myocardial and respiratory injury, and metabolic dysfunction, with possible molecular and cellular mechanisms. This review describes any activation or inhibition of the signaling pathways that depend on the antioxidant activity of vitexin. More basic research is needed on the antioxidative effects of vitexin in vivo, and carrying out clinical trials for the treatment of oxidative stress-related diseases is also recommended.

Metabolic fingerprinting of banana passion fruits and its correlation with quorum quenching activity

Banana passion fruit of the Passiflora genus, are commercially cultivated on a small to medium scale, mainly as edible fruits or as components of traditional herbal medicines. This subgenus comprises several species and hybrid specimens that grow readily in the wild. Due to their taxonomical complexity, many of these species have recently been reclassified (Ocampo Pérez and Coppens d'Eeckenbrugge, 2017), and their chemical profile has still to be determined. In this study, an ¹H NMR-based platform was applied to the chemical profiling of seven wild species of the Passiflora subgenus, and UHPLC-DAD-MS was additionally used for the identification of phenolic compounds. A total of 59 compounds were detected including 26 O- and C-glycosidated flavonoids and polyphenols, nine organic acids, seven amino acids, GABA, sucrose, glucose, myo-inositol, and five other non-identified compounds. Two of the identified compounds are the previously undescribed C-glycosyl flavonoids, apigenin-4'-O-β-glucopyranosyl, 8-C-β-(6″acetyl)-glucopyranoside and apigenin-4-O-β-glucopyranosyl-8-C-β-neohesperidoside. These C-glycosyl flavonoids were isolated to confirm their proposed structures by NMR and LCMS analysis. The PCA score plots obtained from the ¹H NMR data of the studied Passiflora samples showed P. cumbalensis and P. uribei as the species with the most distinguishable chemical profile. In addition, a correlation analysis using OPLS-DA was conducted between ¹H-NMR data and the quorum quenching activity (QQ) of Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC 31532. This analysis revealed P. lehmannii, and P. uribei extracts to be the most active, and apigenin-4'-O-β-glucopyranosyl, 8-C-β-(6″acetyl)-glucopyranoside and apigenin-4-O-β-glucopyranosyl-8-C-β-neohesperidoside were identified as possibly responsible for the QQ activity. To confirm this, QQ activity of both compounds was tested against C. violaceum ATCC 3153. An inhibition of violacein production of 0.135 mM (100 μg/mL) and 0.472 mM (300 μg/mL) was observed for apigenin-4'-O-β-glucopyranosyl,8-C-β-(6″acetyl)-glucopyranoside and apigenin-4-O-β-glucopyranosyl-8-C-β-neohesperidoside respectively, while bacterial growth was unaffected in both cases. Furthermore, both compounds showed the ability to inhibit the production of the toxoflavin of the phytopathogen Burkholderia glumae ATCC 33617.

Volatile profiling and UHPLC-QqQ-MS/MS polyphenol analysis of Passiflora leschenaultii DC. fruits and its anti-radical and anti-diabetic properties

Twenty-four phenolic compounds including daidzein, epicatechin and artepillin C were identified in Passiflora leschenaultii DC. fruit by UHPLC-QqQ-MS/MS analysis. The aroma profile has been studied using the HS-SPME/GC-MS which revealed 67 volatile compounds including 13 terpenes, 18 alcoholics, 15 esters, ketones and phenolic acids. Further, the proximate composition, anti-radical and anti-diabetic activities of fruit pulp were also determined. The fresh fruit pulp of P. leschenaultii registered higher total phenolic (691.90 mg GAE/g extract) and tannin (313.81 mg GAE/g extract) contents and it also exhibited maximum DPPH (IC₅₀ of 6.69 µg/ml) and ABTS⁺ (9760.44 µM trolox equivalent/g extract) scavenging activities. The fresh fruit pulp showed a strong inhibition towards the α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase (IC₅₀ of 32.20 and 19.81 µg/mL, respectively) enzymes. Thus, the work stipulates that phenolic compounds rich P. leschenaultii fruit can serve as a potential nutraceutical, antioxidative and anti-diabetic agent in food and pharmaceutical formulations.

Effects of Foliar Treatment with a Trichoderma Plant Biostimulant Consortium on Passiflora caerulea L. Yield and Quality

The influence of spore concentration on the ability of a Trichoderma consortium to colonize the Passiflora caerulea phyllosphere was evaluated by determining the effects of foliar treatments with two spore concentrations, in two repeated treatments, on the morphological, physiological, and ultrastructural characteristics, and on the yield and quality of P. caerulea. The studied crop quality features were related to its nutraceutical use: the accumulation of polyphenols and flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and effects on mouse fibroblast L929 cells. The Trichoderma consortium consisted of two strains, T. asperellum T36b and T. harzianum Td50b, and the concentrations used were 106 colony forming units (cfu)/mL and 108 cfu/mL. As a reference treatment, a commercial product that was based on herbs and algal extracts was used. As compared to the negative control, the treatment with the Trichoderma consortium at 108 cfu/mL concentration determines the accumulation of higher level of polyphenols and flavonoids and increased antioxidant activity. This enhancement of P. caerulea quality characteristics after treatment with the higher concentration of Trichoderma consortium was associated with larger leaves, increased number and size of chloroplasts, improved plant physiology characteristics, and an increased yield. The treatment with high concentration of Trichoderma consortium spores promotes phyllosphere colonization and benefits both crop yield and quality.

Development and validation of a high-performance thin-layer chromatographic method for the quantitative analysis of vitexin in Passiflora foetida herbal formulations

The aim of this study is the development of validated HPTLC method for the quantification of vitexin from Passiflora foetida commercial herbal formulations. The developed method was validated, in accordance with ICH guidelines for precision, accuracy, specificity and robustness. The plate was developed using ethyl acetate:methanol:water:formic acid 30:4:2:1(%, v/v/v/v) on 20 × 10 cm glass coated silica gel 60 F₂₅₄ plates and the developed plate was scanned and quantified densitometrically at λ = 340 nm. Linear regression analysis revealed a good linear relationship between peak area and amount of vitexin in the range of 100-700 ng/spot. The amount of vitexin in nine commercial herbal formulations was successfully quantified by the developed HPTLC method. The developed and validated high performance thin layer chromatographic method offers a new sensitive and reliable tool for quantification of vitexinin in various herbal formulations containing Passiflora foetida.

Thrombin Inhibition: Preliminary Assessment of the Anticoagulant Potential of Turnera subulata (Passifloraceae)

Cardiovascular and thromboembolic disturbances are the main causes of disease-related deaths worldwide. Regardless of the etiological factors involved in thrombus formation, coagulation is mainly activated by thrombin, one of the most important blood clotting molecules. Thus, this study evaluated the Turnera subulata leaf crude extract, its ethyl acetate fraction effect on the coagulation cascade, and its possible side effects. Their phytocomposition indicated polyphenols, mainly flavonol-3-O-glycosylate and a flavone glycoside, without in vitro and in vivo toxicity. Regarding their potential anticoagulants, results displayed partial thromboplastin and prothrombin time activation, and Xa and IIa, and thrombin inhibition by heparin II cofactor, indicating significant anticoagulant activity, suggesting direct and indirect thrombin inhibition as the main mechanism of action. Therefore, T. subulata leaf active compounds exhibit therapeutic potential required to develop phytotherapeutic formulations to assist conventional anticoagulants in clinical treatments.

Determination of phenolic compounds, in vitro antioxidant activity and characterization of secondary metabolites in different parts of Passiflora cincinnata by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS analysis

Ethanol extracts of different parts of Passiflora cincinnata were obtained by maceration. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were evaluated. The antioxidant activities were determined by β-carotene-linoleic acid bleaching test, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH), and 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging. The crude ethanol stem extract showed the highest amount of total polyphenols (45.53 mg gallic acid equivalent/g) while the highest total flavonoid contents (1.42 mg of quercetin equivalent/g) were observed in the leaf extract. The lowest IC₅₀ (25.65 μg/ml) by the DPPH method was observed for the stem extract. The ABTS method showed a significant antioxidant activity for all investigated extracts. The secondary metabolite composition of ethanol extracts was assessed by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS analysis, leading to the identification of fourteen secondary metabolites in P. cincinnata extracts. These results showed the potentiality of this species as a source of phenolic compounds and antioxidants.