Nutritional and functional components of mulberry leaves from different varieties: Evaluation of their potential as food materials

Ultrasonic/enzymatic extraction, characteristics and comparison of leechee peel polysaccharide

In this study, the process conditions, physicochemical properties, structural composition and activity of polysaccharides isolated from leechee peel (LPP) by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) with enzyme and alkali solution extraction (ASE) were compared. The results showed that the total sugar content of LPP extracted by UAE accounted for 75.65 %, which was significantly higher than that extracted by alkali solution. The optimum conditions were as follows: extraction temperature of 68.78 ℃, ultrasonic enzymolysis time of 39.68 min, pectinase dosage of 4.03 %, solid-liquid ratio of 1:30 g/mL, and ultrasonic power of 360 W. The antioxidant activities and structure of leechee peel polysaccharide (LPP) prepared under different conditions were compared. It was found that UAE-LPP was an α-type polysaccharide containing 15.83 % uronic acid. Moreover, LPP extracted by UAE showed strong activity in anti-lipid peroxidation and reducing ability. Ultrasound-assisted enzymatic method is an effective means to improve the content and activity of natural plant polysaccharides, and this method has the advantages of short time-consuming, simple process and easy operation, which can greatly improve the utilization rate of polysaccharides and lay a theoretical and scientific basis for the development and utilization of LPP.

Influence of Mulberry Leaf Powder Additive on Chemical and Physical Characteristics of Wheat and Rice Flour Butter Cookies

People of all age groups consume cookies every day. Consumers' preferences for cookies supplemented with functional plant raw materials have recently increased. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the influence of a mulberry leaf additive on the proximate and mineral compositions, total phenolic and total chlorophyll content, antioxidant activity, and the hardness and color properties of butter cookies. Wheat and rice flour butter cookies were prepared by replacing the flour with mulberry leaf powder at 0, 4, 8, and 12% (w/w). The results revealed that the investigated chemical and physical characteristics of butter cookies depend on the flour used (rice or wheat) and the addition of mulberry leaf powder. Wheat and rice flour cookies with 12% mulberry leaf powder had the significantly highest contents of fiber (20.34 and 20.23%, respectively), ash (1.73 and 1.75%, respectively), K (170.22 and 160.22 mg 100 g-1, respectively), and Ca (170.45 and 160.68 mg 100 g-1, respectively). The rice flour cookies enriched with 12% leaf powder had the greatest amounts of total phenolics (1.48 mg 100 g-1), Zn (12.25 mg kg-1), Mn (6.28 mg kg-1), Cu (1.95 mg kg-1), and antioxidant activity (67.98%). However, the wheat cookies without mulberry leaf powder contained the most B (9.12 mg kg-1), while the no-added rice cookies contained the most Fe (14.30 mg kg-1). Replacing flour with leaf powder increased the cookies' hardness and decreased their lightness. In conclusion, enriching butter cookies with freeze-dried mulberry leaves can improve their nutritional value and antioxidant activity.

Pharmacological Properties of White Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Leaves: Suppressing Migratory and Invasive Activities Against A549 Lung Cancer Cells

Morus alba known as a white mulberry is a medicinal plant that has been used in food ingredients and traditional medicine. M. alba leaves contain various bioactive phenolic compounds, in particular chlorogenic acid (CGA), which is a major bioactive ingredient. Their anticancer potency of M. alba leaf extracts derived from Soxhlet extraction was evaluated based on cytotoxicity and antimigratory and antiinvasive properties. The dichloromethane extract exhibited the highest nitric oxide radical scavenging activity with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 780 μg/mL, promising cytotoxicity against HuCCA-1, MCF-7, and A-549 cells with IC50 values of 59.18, 62.20, and 103.25 μg/mL, respectively. CGA selectively inhibited the growth of MCF-7 cells with an IC50 value of 26.75 μg/mL and showed potent radical scavenging activity against DPPH radicals (IC50 = 18.85 μg/mL). An ethanolic extract derived from the gradient Soxhlet extraction suppressed A549 lung cancer cell migration and invasion more effectively than CGA with no migratory inhibition effect on noncancerous HaCaT cells. Furthermore, the ethanolic extract and CGA accelerated HaCaT wound closure at 20 µg/mL, which was the same as allantoin. Bioactive ingredients including triterpenes, steroids, phenolics, and flavonoids were mainly detected in all extracts. The highest content of CGA (52.23 g/100 g dry weight) was found in the ethanolic extract derived from the gradient Soxhlet extraction. These findings show the potency of the dichloromethane extract as a cytotoxic agent against various cancer types and the ethanolic extract as an antimetastatic agent by their antimigratory and antiinvasive activities.

Health Benefits of Antioxidant Bioactive Compounds in Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Leaves by Network Pharmacology Analysis Combined with Experimental Validation

Network pharmacology is an ideal tool to explore the effects of therapeutic components derived from plants on human metabolic diseases that are linked to inflammation. This study investigated the antioxidant effects of ginger leaves (GLs) and predicted targets for antioxidant activity. Quantitative and free radical scavenging analyses were performed to detect the main bioactive compounds of GLs and evaluate their antioxidant activities. Chemical diversity and network pharmacology approaches were used to predict key antioxidant components of GLs and their molecular targets. Nine major bioactive compounds of GLs were quantified using an internal standard method, and the antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging methods. We first built the compound-gene-pathways and protein-protein interaction networks of GLs-related antioxidant targets and then conducted gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. Molecular docking results show that astragalin, a compound isolated from GLs, had the highest level of connectivity in the compound-target network and was involved in inflammation-related biosynthesis by directly impacting cytokine gene expression and PTGS2 inhibition markers. These findings not only suggest that the compounds isolated from GLs can be developed as potential antioxidants, but also demonstrate the applicability of network pharmacology to assess the potential of foods for disease treatment.

Potential Role and Mechanism of Mulberry Extract in Immune Modulation: Focus on Chemical Compositions, Mechanistic Insights, and Extraction Techniques

Mulberry is a rapidly growing plant that thrives in diverse climatic, topographical, and soil types, spanning temperature and temperate countries. Mulberry plants are valued as functional foods for their abundant chemical composition, serving as a significant reservoir of bioactive compounds like proteins, polysaccharides, phenolics, and flavonoids. Moreover, these compounds displayed potent antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals, inhibiting reactive oxygen species generation, and restoring elevated nitric oxide production induced by LPS stimulation through the downregulation of inducible NO synthase expression. Active components like oxyresveratrol found in Morus demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting leukocyte migration through the MEK/ERK signaling pathway. Gallic and chlorogenic acids in mulberry leaves (ML) powder-modulated TNF, IL-6, and IRS1 proteins, improving various inflammatory conditions by immune system modulation. As we delve deeper into understanding its anti-inflammatory potential and how it works therapeutically, it is crucial to refine the extraction process to enhance the effectiveness of its bioactive elements. Recent advancements in extraction techniques, such as solid-liquid extraction, pressurized liquid extraction, superficial fluid extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and ultrasonic-assisted extraction, are being explored. Among the extraction methods tested, including Soxhlet extraction, maceration, and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), UAE demonstrated superior efficiency in extracting bioactive compounds from mulberry leaves. Overall, this comprehensive review sheds light on the potential of mulberry as a natural immunomodulatory agent and provides insights into its mechanisms of action for future research and therapeutic applications.

Bioactivity, phytochemistry studies and subacute in vivo toxicity of ethanolic leaf extract of white mulberry (Morus alba linn.) in female mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional uses of Morus alba L. leaf extracts (MLE) have been reported for treating hyperglycaemia and diabetes. Phytochemical compounds in the leaves demonstrated the ability to enhance insulin sensitivity and β-cell secretory function, suggesting their potential value in reducing blood glucose and treating diabetes. However, the phytochemical constituents and safety of the herbal medicines need to be verified in each experimental field from different growing areas. Studies on the phytochemistry and toxicity of Morus alba leaves in Southeast Asia, especially in Brunei, have never been investigated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the bioactivity and phytochemistry of Morus alba ethanolic leaf extract from Brunei Darussalam and its subacute toxic effects in the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) female mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The phenolic yield and antioxidant of the extract were analysed. Meanwhile, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography were utilised to determine the phenolic compound of the MLE. In the subacute toxicity study, twenty-five female mice were randomly divided into five groups: the control group, which received oral gavage of 5% dimethyl sulfoxide solvent (DMSO), and the MLE treatment group, which received the extract at a dose of 125, 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg. Physiology, haematology, biochemistry, and histology were evaluated during the study.

RESULTS

Morus alba leaf depicted total phenolic 10.93 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dry weight (DW), flavonoid 256.67 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g DW, and antioxidant bioactivity content of 602.03 IC50 μg/mL and 13.21 mg Fe2+/g DW. Twenty compounds in the Morus alba ethanolic leaf extract were identified, with chlorogenic acid (305.60 mg/100 g DW) as the primary compound. As for subacute toxicity in this study, neither mortality nor haematological changes were observed. On the other hand, administration of 500 and 1000 mg/kg MLE resulted in mild hepatocellular injury, as indicated by a significant (p < 0.05) increase in liver enzyme activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The histopathological score showed mild hepatocellular necrosis in administering 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg of MLE. The parameters of renal injury were within normal limits, with the increase in eosinophilic cytoplasm observed in the histological scoring at 1000 mg/kg of MLE.

CONCLUSIONS

Morus alba leaf extract showed abundant polyphenols. In a study on subacute toxicity, MLE caused mild hepatotoxicity in mice. The toxic effect of the extract may be due to kaempferol and chlorogenic acid compounds. The 125 mg/kg MLE dose was safe with no adverse effects.

Soil Application of Bacillus subtilis Regulates Flavonoid and Alkaloids Biosynthesis in Mulberry Leaves

Flavonoids and alkaloids are the major active ingredients in mulberry leaves that have outstanding medicinal value. Bacillus subtilis can effectively activate the plants defense response and regulate the plant secondary metabolism. In this study, we explored the effects of soil application of B. subtilis on the content of flavonoids and the most important alkaloids (1-deoxynojirimycin, DNJ) in mulberry leaves. Significant decreases in flavonoid content were observed in tender leaves and mature leaves after treatment with B. subtilis; at the same time, significant increases in DNJ content were observed in tender leaves. Based on widely targeted LC-MS/MS and high-throughput approaches, we screened out 904 differentially synthesized metabolites (DSMs) and 9715 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). KEGG analyses showed that these DSMs and DEGs were both significantly enriched in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, flavonoid synthesis and plant hormone signal transduction. Further correlation analysis of DEMs and DEGs showed that 40 key genes were involved in flavonoid biosynthesis, with 6 key genes involved in DNJ biosynthesis. The expression of CHS, CHI, F3H, F3'H, FLS, UGT and AOC significantly responded to B. subtilis soil application. This study broadens our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the accumulation of flavonoids and alkaloids in mulberry leaves.

Comparative study of the quality indices, antioxidant substances, and mineral elements in different forms of cabbage

BACKGROUND

As the second largest leafy vegetable, cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) is grown globally, and the characteristics of the different varieties, forms, and colors of cabbage may differ. In this study, five analysis methods-variance analysis, correlation analysis, cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and comprehensive ranking-were used to evaluate the quality indices (soluble protein, soluble sugar, and nitrate), antioxidant content (vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids), and mineral (K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) content of 159 varieties of four forms (green spherical, green oblate, purple spherical, and green cow heart) of cabbage.

RESULTS

The results showed that there are significant differences among different forms and varieties of cabbage. Compared to the other three forms, the purple spherical cabbage had the highest flavonoid, K, Mg, Cu, Mn, and Zn content. A scatter plot of the principal component analysis showed that the purple spherical and green cow heart cabbage varieties were distributed to the same quadrant, indicating that their quality indices and mineral contents were highly consistent, while those of the green spherical and oblate varieties were irregularly distributed. Overall, the green spherical cabbage ranked first, followed by the green cow heart, green oblate, and purple spherical varieties.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results provide a theoretical basis for the cultivation and high-quality breeding of cabbage.

Non-destructive detection of protein content in mulberry leaves by using hyperspectral imaging

Protein content is one of the most important indicators for assessing the quality of mulberry leaves. This work is carried out for the rapid and non-destructive detection of protein content of mulberry leaves using hyperspectral imaging (HSI) (Specim FX10 and FX17, Spectral Imaging Ltd., Oulu, Finland). The spectral range of the HSI acquisition system and data processing methods (pretreatment, feature extraction, and modeling) is compared. Hyperspectral images of three spectral ranges in 400-1,000 nm (Spectral Range I), 900-1,700 nm (Spectral Range II), and 400-1,700 nm (Spectral Range III) were considered. With standard normal variate (SNV), Savitzky-Golay first-order derivation, and multiplicative scatter correction used to preprocess the spectral data, and successive projections algorithm (SPA), competitive adaptive reweighted sampling, and random frog used to extract the characteristic wavelengths, regression models are constructed by using partial least square and least squares-support vector machine (LS-SVM). The protein content distribution of mulberry leaves is visualized based on the best model. The results show that the best results are obtained with the application of the model constructed by combining SNV with SPA and LS-SVM, showing an R 2 of up to 0.93, an RMSE of just 0.71 g/100 g, and an RPD of up to 3.83 based on the HSI acquisition system of 900-1700 nm. The protein content distribution map of mulberry leaves shows that the protein of healthy mulberry leaves distributes evenly among the mesophyll, with less protein content in the vein of the leaves. The above results show that rapid, non-destructive, and high-precision detection of protein content of mulberry leaves can be achieved by applying the SWIR HSI acquisition system combined with the SNV-SPA-LS-SVM algorithm.

Assessment of the Fruit Chemical Characteristics and Antioxidant Activity of Different Mulberry Cultivars (Morus spp.) in Semi-Arid, Sandy Regions of China

As a traditional cash crop with ecological and nutritional values, mulberry is gradually expanding its consumption worldwide due to its great regional adaptability and superior health functions. The widespread interest in nutrients has led to a growing need to explore in depth the health benefits of mulberries. Many studies are actively being conducted to investigate the adaptability of the diversity of mulberries in different applications. This study systematically investigated the physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of four mulberry genotypes cultivated in China's semi-arid sandy regions to better understand the composition and health-promoting potential of this super crop. Chemical composition identification was identified via HPLC and antioxidant activity was further determined via DPPH and FRAP. The moisture, crude protein, ash, soluble solids, phenolics, anthocyanins, and flavonoids contents of mulberry were comparatively analyzed. The study revealed that the four mulberry genotypes showed significant differences in quality and content of the analyzed characteristics. The greatest antioxidant activity was found in Shensang 1, which had the most soluble solids (17%) and the highest amounts of free sugar (fructose: 5.14% and glucose: 5.46%). Ji'an had the most minerals (K: 2.35 mg/g, Ca: 2.27 mg/g, and Fe: 467.32 mg/kg) and it also contained chlorogenic acid, which has the potential to be turned into a natural hypoglycemic agent. PCA and Pearson correlation analysis indicated that the antioxidant activity was closely related to the chemical contents of total phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and soluble sugars. If the antioxidant activity and nutrient content of the developed plants are considered, Shen Sang 1 is the most favorable variety. This finding can be used to support the widespread cultivation of mulberries to prevent desertification as well as to promote the development of the mulberry industry.

Estimation of Some Phytochemical Compounds and Antioxidant Properties of Leaves from Different Mulberry Varieties Grown in Syria

The study was conducted to compare the chemical composition and bioactive compounds of leaves from different mulberry species grown in Syria (Morus alba, Morus nigra, Morus rubra, and Morus nigra sp). The leaves were collected in July 2022 and their proximate composition (moisture, ash, lipids, and protein), total polyphenol content (TPC), ascorbic acid, and antioxidant activity, as measured by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), were investigated. The results showed that the moisture, ash, and fat content ranged from 61.84 to 71.17%, 12.87 to 17.61%, and 3.82 to 9.68% dry weight (DW), respectively. The phenolic concentration of leaves from four different mulberry cultivars varied significantly, from 164.9 (Morus alba) to 461.5 gallic acid equivalents mg/100 g DW (M. nigra). The antioxidant activity of mulberry leaves ranged from 122 to 166.3 meq ascorbic acid/100 g DW and was arranged as follows: M. rubra > M. nigra sp > M. nigra > M. alba. According to the findings, mulberry leaves could be used to create new food supplements, functional foods, and medical applications.

Fermentation Properties and Bacterial Community Composition of Mixed Silage of Mulberry Leaves and Smooth Bromegrass with and without Lactobacillus plantarum Inoculation

To evaluate the fermentation properties and bacterial community composition of mulberry leaves when ensiled with smooth bromegrass, and the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum inoculation on the mixed silage of mulberry leaves and smooth bromegrass, mulberry leaves were mixed with smooth bromegrass at ratios of 100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30 and 60:40, and ensiled for 60 d with and without L. plantarum inoculant. The results showed that the sole fermentation of mulberry leaves failed to achieve optimum fermentation quality. Silage with a mulberry leaf ratio of 80% performed better fermentation quality compared with other non-inoculated groups, indicated by lower pH value, adequate lactic acid accumulation, and enriched proportion of Lactobacillus in the bacterial community. L. plantarum inoculation dramatically improved fermentation quality of mulberry leaf silage compared with the non-inoculated control. However, the fermentation quality of the inoculated silage decreased along with the reduction in the ratio of mulberry leaves. In conclusion, L. plantarum inoculation has the capability to improve the silage quality of mulberry leaves. Combined ensiling with smooth bromegrass could also aid in improving silage quality of mulberry leaves, with the optimum ratio of mulberry leaves being 80%.

Identification of geographic origins of Morus alba Linn. through surfaced enhanced Raman spectrometry and machine learning algorithms

The leaves of Morus alba Linn., which is also known as white mulberry, have been commonly used in many of traditional systems of medicine for centuries. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), mulberry leaf is mainly used for anti-diabetic purpose due to its enrichment in bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids and polysaccharides. However, these components are variable due to the different habitats of the mulberry plant. Therefore, geographic origin is an important feature because it is closely associated with bioactive ingredient composition that further influences medicinal qualities and effects. As a low-cost and non-invasive method, surface enhanced Raman spectrometry (SERS) is able to generate the overall fingerprints of chemical compounds in medicinal plants, which holds the potential for the rapid identification of their geographic origins. In this study, we collected mulberry leaves from five representative provinces in China, namely, Anhui, Guangdong, Hebei, Henan and Jiangsu. SERS spectrometry was applied to characterize the fingerprints of both ethanol and water extracts of mulberry leaves, respectively. Through the combination of SERS spectra and machine learning algorithms, mulberry leaves were well discriminated with high accuracies in terms of their geographic origins, among which the deep learning algorithm convolutional neural network (CNN) showed the best performance. Taken together, our study established a novel method for predicting the geographic origins of mulberry leaves through the combination of SERS spectra with machine learning algorithms, which strengthened the application potential of the method in the quality evaluation, control and assurance of mulberry leaves.

Investigation on Antioxidant Activity and Different Metabolites of Mulberry (Morus spp.) Leaves Depending on the Harvest Months by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS with Multivariate Tools

The changes in active components in mulberry leaves harvested in different months and their antioxidant activities were investigated. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) with multivariate statistical tools was used to investigate the chemical constituents in the extracts of mulberry leaves. The results indicated that mulberry leaves were rich in phenolic acids, flavonoids, organic acids, and fatty acid derivatives. In addition, 25 different compounds were identified in the different batches of mulberry leaves. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity was measured to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant activities of mulberry leaves. Among the four batches, batch A, harvested in December, exhibited the strongest DPPH radical-scavenging activity, while batch B, harvested in March, showed the weakest activity. This was related to the total phenolic content in the mulberry leaves of each batch. The optimal harvest time of mulberry leaves greatly influences the bioactivity and bioavailability of the plant.

Effects of Silage Diet on Meat Quality through Shaping Gut Microbiota in Finishing Pigs

With increasing demand for high-quality pork, development of green and healthy feed for finishing pigs is urgently needed. In this study, the effects and mechanisms of mulberry and paper mulberry silages on growth performance, meat quality, and intestinal health of finishing pigs were explored. Intestinal microbiota were profiled, and microbially produced short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were measured. The average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion rate (FCR) with mulberry and paper mulberry silages were not significantly different from those of the control. Meat quality as measured by pork marbling and fatty acids in the longissimus dorsi was better with mulberry silage. The highest concentration of SCFAs was also with mulberry silage. According to 16S rRNA sequencing, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, Terrisporobacter, and Lachnospiraceae, which are important in SCFA production, were biomarkers of mulberry silage. PICRUSt functional analysis of intestinal microbes indicated that galactose metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism, and carbohydrate digestion and absorption decreased significantly in silage treatments but increased in the control. Correlations between intestinal microbes and SCFAs and fatty acids indicated Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, Terrisporobacter, and Lachnospiraceae were closely associated with SCFA and fatty acid contents. The results indicated that mulberry silage could increase SCFA content through shaping intestinal microbes to affect the deposition of fatty acids, which laid a solid theoretical foundation for improving pork quality. IMPORTANCE To avoid competition between people and animals for food, it is essential to develop nontraditional feeds. In this study, the effects of the silages of the unconventional feed resources mulberry and paper mulberry on meat quality of finishing pigs were examined. With mulberry silage in the diet, meat quality improved as indicated by meat color, marbling score, and beneficial fatty acids in the longissimus dorsi muscle. Pigs fed mulberry silage had the highest concentrations of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and 16S rRNA sequencing identified Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, Terrisporobacter, and Lachnospiraceae as biomarkers, which are important in SCFA production. Functions of intestinal microbes in the two silage groups primarily involved amino acid metabolism and SCFA production. Correlations between intestinal microbes and SCFAs and fatty acids indicated that Clostridium_sensu_stricto-1, Terrisporobacter, and Lachnospiraceae were closely associated with SCFA contents in the intestine and fatty acids in the longissimus dorsi.

Protective Application of Morus and Its Extracts in Animal Production

Different components of the mulberry tree (fruits, leaves, twigs, and roots) are rich in active compounds, and have been reported to possess potent beneficial properties, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-allergenic, antihypertensive, and neuroprotective. The mulberry and its extracts can effectively improve the growth performance and fitness of animals. They not only possess the properties of being safe and purely natural, but also they are not prone to drug resistance. According to the literature, the supplemental level of the mulberry and its extracts in animal diets varies with different species, physiological status, age, and the purpose of the addition. It has been observed that the mulberry and its extracts enhanced the growth performance, the quality of animal products (meat, egg, and milk), the antioxidant and the anti-inflammatory responses of animals. Furthermore, the mulberry and its extracts have antibacterial properties and can effectively moderate the relative abundance of the microbial populations in the rumen and intestines, thus improving the immunity function of animals and reducing the enteric methane (CH₄) production in ruminants. Furthermore, the mulberry and its extracts have the potential to depurate tissues of heavy metals. Collectively, this review summarizes the nutrients, active compounds, and biological functions of mulberry tree products, as well as the application in livestock production with an aim to provide a reference for the utilization of the mulberry and its extracts in animal production.

The Effect of Hot-Melt Extrusion of Mulberry Leaf on the Number of Active Compounds and Antioxidant Activity

The aim of this study is to compare the functions of the physiologically active compounds of three types of mulberry leaf by cultivar, and to confirm the changes using hot-melt extrusion (HME-ML). The active components of mulberry leaf were analyzed using the HPLC system, and total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity were measured. Among the three varieties, the highest contents of rutin and isoquercetin were detected in Cheongil, of TPC in Cheongol, and of TFC in Cheongil. It was confirmed that this bio-accessibility was increased in HME-ML compared with the control. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of Cheongol showed greater antioxidant properties, and HME showed improvement in the antioxidant properties of all mulberry leaves. These results suggest that the application of HME technology can improve the biological activities of mulberry leaf.

Bioactive Compounds Produced in Leaves of Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Transplants under Modified Environments of Root and Aerial Zones

Different shoot/root micro-environments were investigated for growth performances and nutraceutical compounds in leaves of mulberry (Morus alba L.) transplants. Single-node segments were taken from seedling-grown pots of three cultivars: Myanmar large leaf (MLL), Myanmar medium leaf (MML), and C14. Transplant production was compared in soil, vermiculite (V), or the dynamic root floating technique (DRFT). The highest survival percentage of the transplants was obtained from V-system, and MLL showed a higher shoot/root formation over two tested cultivars. The MLL transplants grown in V-system under white LED light (445 and 554 nm) at 200 μmol·m^-2·s^-1 gave a fresh weight with superior qualified transplants compared to other treatments. The bioactive compounds in leaves of MLL, MML, and C14 were analyzed using GC-MS after incubation with different LED spectra. Ethanol extracts of the leaves revealed that more than 50% of the bioactive compounds were fatty acids and conjugates and varied according to spectra and cultivar. Blue LED light (445 nm) induced the production of total phenolics, whereas white LED light favored the production of total proteins, soluble sugar, and biomass. The modified environments at the root and aerial zones significantly influenced the growth and biochemical parameters of transplants, and this applied technique can elevate useful functional ingredients of mulberry leaves.

Haskap Berry Leaves (Lonicera caerulea L.)—The Favorable Potential of Medical Use

The presented research evaluates the medical use potential of Lonicera caerulea leaves, which are waste plants in cultivating berries. The study’s screening activity included the leaves of five varieties of Lonicera caerulea: Atut, Duet, Wojtek, Zojka, and Jugana. The microbiological analysis confirmed the safety of using Lonicera caerulea leaves without significant stabilization. Lonicera caerulea leaves standardization was carried out based on the results of the chromatographic analysis, and it showed differences in the contents of active compounds (loganic, chlorogenic and caffeic acids, and rutin), which are attributed to biological activity. For the Lonicera caerulea leaves varieties tested, the differences in the content of total polyphenol content, chlorophylls, and carotenoids were also confirmed. The screening of biological activity of five Lonicera caerulea leaf varieties was carried out concerning the possibility of inhibiting the activity of α-glucosidase, lipase, and hyaluronidase as well, and the antioxidant potential was determined. The defined profile of the biological activity of Lonicera caerulea leaves makes it possible to indicate this raw material as an essential material supporting the prevention and treatment of type II diabetes. However, this research showed that tested enzymes were strongly inhibited by the variety Jugana. The health-promoting potential of Lonicera caerulea leaves was correlated with the highest chlorogenic acid and rutin content in the variety Jugana.

Impact of Tea Processing on Tryptophan, Melatonin, Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents in Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Leaves: Quantitative Analysis by LC-MS/MS

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaves from two cultivars, Yai-Burirum (YB) and Khunphai (KP), were prepared into green tea (GT) and black tea (BT). Compared to fresh leaf (FL) extract, GT and BT extracts were evaluated for their total phenolic and total flavonoid contents. Total phenolic content (TPCs) in all samples ranged between 129.93 and 390.89 mg GAE/g extract. The processing of tea decreased the levels of TPC when compared to FL extracts in both cultivars. The total flavonoid content (TFCs) in all samples was found in the range of 10.15–39.09 mg QE/g extract and TFCs in GT and BT extracts were higher than FL extracts. The change in tryptophan, melatonin, phenolic and flavonoid contents was investigated by liquid chromatography–mass spectroscopy (LC-MS). The results exhibited that tryptophan contents in all samples were detected in the range 29.54–673.72 µg/g extract. Both GT and BT extracts increased tryptophan content compared to FL extracts. BT extracts presented the highest amounts of tryptophan among others in both cultivars. Phenolic compounds were found in mulberry leaf extracts, including gallic acid, caffeic acid, gentisic acid, protocatechuic acid and chlorogenic acid. Chlorogenic acid presented the highest amount in all samples. Almost all phenolic acids were increased in the processed tea extracts except chlorogenic acid. Rutin was the only flavonoid that was detected in all extracts in the range 109.48–1009.75 mg/g extract. The change in phenolic and flavonoid compounds during tea processing resulted in the change in antioxidant capacities of the GT and BT extracts. All extracts presented acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE) inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ in the range 146.53–165.24 µg/mL. The processing of tea slightly increased the AChE inhibitory effect of GT and BT extracts. In conclusion, processed tea from mulberry leaves could serve as a new alternative functional food for health-concerned consumers because it could be a promising source of tryptophan, phenolics and flavonoids. Moreover, the tea extracts also had antioxidative and anti-AChE activities.

Characterization, Hypoglycemic Activity, and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts From Amomum tsao-ko: in vitro and in vivo Studies

The dried fruit of Amomum tsao-ko is well-known as a spice as well as a Chinese traditional herb. This study aimed to identify the bioactive constituents in the powder of methanol extract from Amomum tsao-ko (PMEAT) and to evaluate the hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects of PMEAT, in vitro and in vivo. We identified 36 phytochemicals in PMEAT by employing HPLC-MS/MS. PMEAT solution was found to have potent α-glucosidase-inhibiting activity (IC₅₀, 0.145 mg/mL) in vitro, twice as strong as that of acarbose (IC₅₀, 0.273 mg/mL). To investigate the hypoglycemic activity of PMEAT in vivo, we studied the impact of low-dose PMEAT (the addition of 100 mg/kg PMEAT to the mice diet) and high-dose PMEAT (200 mg/kg PMEAT addition) treatments in STZ-induced diabetic mice. After 6 weeks of intervention, significantly decreased fasting blood glucose (FBG) (p < 0.05), significantly decreased area under the curve (AUC) of the oral glucose tolerance test (p < 0.05), significantly decreased HOMA-IR (p < 0.05), and significantly increased HOMA-β (p < 0.05) were observed in the high-dose PMEAT group. Moreover, we performed an antioxidant activity experiment in vitro. The results showed that PMEAT had a strong ability to scavenge DPPH (IC₅₀, 0.044 mg/mL) as well as ABTS free radicals (IC₅₀, 0.040 mg/mL). In an animal experiment conducted on oxidative damage mice model which was induced by D-glucose and a high-fat diet, we observed significantly increased dismutase (SOD) (p < 0.01), glutathione (GSH) (p < 0.01), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (p < 0.01) and significantly reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-ISO-prostaglandin-PGF2α (8-ISO-PGF2α), after treatment with PMEAT for 90 days. In conclusion, this study reveals the therapeutic potential of Amomum tsao-ko for the treatment of diabetes and helps us discover new antioxidant candidates from natural sources.

Integrative Analyses of Transcriptomics and Metabolomics in Sex Differentiation of Mulberry Flowers

Sex determination and sex differentiation of plants are important physiological processes of plant development. Mulberry (Morus indica L.) is an important economic tree being cultivated in sericulture countries, and mulberry leaf is commonly used for sericulture. The transcriptomic and metabolomic differences between the staminate flowers (SFs) and pistillate flowers (PFs) of mulberry were investigated by RNA sequencing and ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Overall, we uncovered 4,230 genes and 209 metabolites are significantly differentially expressed between the SFs and PFs of mulberry. The combined transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis revealed these differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) are involved in flavonoid biosynthesis, galactose metabolism, plant–pathogen interaction, and starch and sucrose metabolism, and these detected DEGs and DEMs may be associated with sex differentiation of mulberry through the regulation of the enrichment pathways, such as the MAPK pathway, flavonoid biosynthesis, galactose metabolism, plant–pathogen interaction, and starch and sucrose metabolism. This study will provide a rich source for the analysis of the molecular mechanism of mulberry sex differentiation processes.

In vitro bioactivity evaluation of mulberry leaf extracts as nutraceuticals for the management of diabetes mellitus

There is an increasing need for new options to treat diabetes mellitus at its early stage and natural remedies have been recently reassessed as potential candidates owing to their low-cost and effectiveness. Genus Morus plants contain many active compounds with hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant effects. Current research on mulberry chemical composition and bioactivity has been generally carried out only on Asian cultivation, where this plant has been traditionally used in the form of leaf infusion for decades. In this work, twelve Italian mulberry cultivars were fully characterised to fill this gap of knowledge, since a strong correlation among composition, genetics and growing area was proven. Antiglycative and hypoglycaemic effects of leaf extracts were evaluated using different in vitro models. The results indicate that the inhibitory effect on carbohydrate digestive enzymes was likely mediated by 1-deoxynojirimycin, kaempferol, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid, acting in a synergistic way. Besides, the combined antiglycative and carbonyl trapping capacities, tested here for the first time, may help in preventing long-term complications related to AGEs in diabetic patients.

The Effect of Maturity and Extraction Solvents on Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Mulberry (Morus alba) Fruits and Leaves

Cultivation location, maturity levels, and extraction solvents could affect the bioactive compounds and biological activities of mulberry (Morus alba Linnaeus). The lack of study on Malaysia-grown mulberry causes its underutilization. This study investigated the bioactive compound content and the antioxidant activity of Sabah-grown mulberry at two different maturity stages (fruits: red mature and black fully ripe; leaves: young and mature) extracted using 70% (v/v) methanol, 60% (v/v) ethanol, and 65% (v/v) acetone. Analyses showed that mulberry fruits demonstrated maturity-dependent increment (except UHPLC-DAD quantification), while the leaves revealed maturity-dependent reduction. Principal component analysis (PCA) displayed 65% (v/v) acetone black fully ripe fruits as the best phenolics and antioxidant sources. However, the 60% (v/v) ethanol black fully ripe fruits contained 20.08–68.43% higher total anthocyanins. Meanwhile, the 65% (v/v) acetone and 70% (v/v) methanol red mature fruits were higher in chlorogenic acid (27.53–47.12%) and rutin (31.42–35.92%) than other fruit extracts, respectively. For leaves, 65% (v/v) acetone young leaves were the best phenolics and antioxidant sources. However, the 60% (v/v) ethanol young leaves possessed greater chlorogenic acid (19.56–74.11%) than other leaf extracts. Overall, Malaysia-grown mulberry is rich in phenolics and antioxidants, suggesting its potential application in food and pharmaceutical products.

Chemometric evaluation of functional components and anti-quorum sensing activity of mulberry leaves from Indian cultivars: a potential contribution to the food industry

BACKGROUND

Potential use of many native, easily available vegetal materials for human consumption and value addition is not well recognized. Mulberry, being a traditional industrial crop rich in nutrients and nutraceuticals can be of great importance for the food industry. However, mulberry leaves are mainly being utilized in sericulture and are not exploited for their functional components. Thus, the selection of promising mulberry cultivars, rich in bioactive compounds, like resveratrol and 1-deoxynojirimycin, increase their potential use in functional foods.

RESULTS

Chlorogenic acid, myricetin and kaempferol were the major polyphenols present in the nine selected cultivars, in the range 0.001-0.086, 0.003-0.079 and 0.003-0.163 g kg^-1 fresh weight (FW), respectively. Protocatechuic acid, epicatechin and rutin were predominantly present in cultivars V-1, G-2 and ML (0.103, 0.080 and 0.121 g kg^-1 FW, respectively). Similarly, resveratrol and 1-deoxynojirimycin were highest in cultivars ML and K-2 (0.078 and 0.079 g kg^-1 FW, respectively). Leaf extracts of cultivars G-2 and ML were able to effectively inhibit the violacein production with 64.08% and 70.04%, respectively at the concentration of 6 mg mL^-1 presumably due to a higher content of polyphenols. Chemometric evaluation of chromatographic data showed the intraspecific variability and secondary metabolite co-existence in different cultivars.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering phytoconstituents, cultivars G-2, ML, K-2 and V-1 could contribute efficiently to the rational utilization of mulberry in agro-food industries. Furthermore, cultivars G-2 and ML leaves can be a new source of quorum sensing inhibitory agents. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Chromosome restructuring and number change during the evolution of Morus notabilis and Morus alba

Mulberry (Morus spp.) is an economically important plant as the main food plant used for rearing domesticated silkworm and it has multiple uses in traditional Chinese medicine. Two basic chromosome numbers (Morus notabilis, n = 7, and Morus alba, n = 14) have been reported in the genus Morus, but the evolutionary history and relationship between them remain unclear. In the present study, a 335-Mb high-quality chromosome-scale genome was assembled for the wild mulberry species M. notabilis. Comparative genomic analyses indicated high chromosomal synteny between the 14 chromosomes of cultivated M. alba and the six chromosomes of wild M. notabilis. These results were successfully verified by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Chromosomal fission/fusion events played crucial roles in the chromosome restructuring process between M. notabilis and M. alba. The activity of the centromere was another key factor that ensured the stable inheritance of chromosomes. Our results also revealed that long terminal repeat retrotransposons were a major driver of the genome divergence and evolution of the mulberry genomes after they diverged from each other. This study provides important insights and a solid foundation for studying the evolution of mulberry, allowing the accelerated genetic improvement of cultivated mulberry species.

Hepatoprotective effect of different mulberry leaf extracts against acute liver injury in rats by alleviating oxidative stress and inflammatory response

This study investigated the hepatoprotective effect of various mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaf extracts (MLEs), including mulberry ethanol extract (MEE), aqueous extract (MAE) and combination extract (MCE) against D-galactosamine (D-GalN)...

Potential medicinal, nutritive and antiviral food plants: Africa’s plausible answer to the low Covid-19 mortality

The surge in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has put the scientific community on overdrive to come up with a cure and/or possible vaccine to curtail the menace this virus has caused. Considering the morbidity rate from the Coronavirus and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for healthy living, this review examined and documented the possible options of plant-based immune boosters for attaining wellness and protect against infections caused by viruses. This review documented 106 plants consumed largely in Africa as food or medicine after assessing over 172 articles from notable search engines. These plants were reported for antiviral activities and immune boosters for attaining wellness and immunomodulation, a key protective feature against infections caused by viruses. The documented plants contain several immune-modulating compounds like vitamins, flavonoids, phenols, macro, and micronutrients, which might be the possible reason for the current leverage on the mortality rate associated with the COVID-19 pandemic in the African continent. The study, therefore, concluded that medicinal/food plants are able to enhance healthy living and medicinal plants are a significant source of phytomedicinal content for the management of viral-induced diseases such as COVID-19.

Pb contaminated soil influence on aboveground biomass and bioactive compounds in leaves of mulberry

This study investigated the effects of soil lead (Pb), biochar, and partial root zone drought (PRD) on mulberry (Morus alba L.) branches and leaves biomass, Pb accumulation, and bioactive compounds including 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) and flavonoids. Three-factor pot experiments were conducted with biochar, PRD, and soil Pb at four concentration levels (0, 50, 200, and 800 mg kg^-1). Results revealed that mulberry aboveground biomass did not decrease significantly across the soil Pb levels. Pb concentration of mulberry leaves do not increase significantly when soil Pb was 200 mg kg^-1; however, it significantly accumulated under 800 mg kg^-1. There was a dose-effect between the Pb concentration in branches and the soil Pb levels. Mulberry leaf flavonoids were affected by the interaction of soil Pb and biochar. The interaction between two of the three factors significantly affected leaves DNJ concentration. The combination of biochar and PRD maintained the biomass of mulberry and did not significantly increase Pb in leaves under 200 mg kg^-1 soil Pb concentration. In summary, mulberry has a higher resistance to soil Pb stress, and it can be planted in moderate Pb-contaminated soils for no loss of biomass and can safely harvest the branches and leaves.Novelty statementAn economic benefit is a key to the practical application and sustainability of phytoremediation. Based on this, we studied the effects of soil Pb on biomass, Pb accumulation, and bioactive substance concentration of harvesting organs in mulberry.Phytoremediation is not isolated, and techniques, such as soil amendments and water management also play a role. In this study, we found that biochar and partial root-zone irrigation had a synergistic effect on the response of mulberry to soil Pb, which could be co-applied in the phytoremediation of lead-contaminated soil.The concentration of heavy metals is the key to ensuring product safety in heavy metal contaminated soil. We found that Pb concentration in leaf and stem of mulberry did not significantly increase under 200 mg kg^-1 soil Pb, while increased at 800 mg kg^-1 soil Pb. Therefore, planting mulberry on 200 mg kg^-1 Pb contaminated soil can safely harvest branches and leaves.

Submerged fermentation improves bioactivity of mulberry fruits and leaves

Objective

Mulberry (Morus spp.) fruits and leaves have been proven to possess nutraceutical properties. Due to its fast and easy growing characteristics, mulberry fruits (MF) and leaves (ML) potentially emerge as a great source of functional foods. This study aims to enhance bioactivities (antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and hypoglycemic activity) of MF and ML via submerged fermentation using bacteria (Lactobacillus plantarum TAR 4), yeast (Baker’s yeast and red yeast) and fungi (Tempeh and Tapai starter).

Methods

In this study, 25% (mass to volume ratio) of MF and ML were fermented (48 h) with 1% (mass to volume ratio) of different microbial cultures, respectively. Effects of different fermentations on MF and ML were determined based on the changes of total phenolics (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), anthocyanins, total sugar, DPPH activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), albumin denaturation inhibition activity (ADI), anti-lipoxygenase activity and α-amylase inhibition activity (AI).

Results

Generally, ML had higher AI than MF. However, MF exhibited higher DPPH, FRAP and anti-lipoxygenase activity than ML. After all forms of fermentation, DPPH and AI activity of MF and ML were increased significantly (P < 0.05). However, the effects of fermentation on TPC, FRAP, ADI and anti-lipoxygenase activity of MF were in contrast with ML. TPC, FRAP and anti-lipoxygenase activity of ML were enhanced, but reduced in MF after fermentation. Although the effects exerted by different microorganisms in MF and ML fermentation were different, the bioactivities of MF and ML were generally improved after fermentation. Fermentation by Tempeh starter enhanced TPC (by 2-fold), FRAP (by 2.3-fold), AI (at 10% increment) and anti-lipoxygenase activity (by 5-fold) of ML, whereas Tapai fermentation effectively enhanced the DPPH (at 17% increment) and ADI (by 2-fold) activity of MF.

Conclusion

Findings of this study provide an insight into the future process design of MF and ML processing into novel functional foods.

Polysaccharides, Total Phenolic, and Flavonoid Content from Different Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) Genotypes and Their Antioxidants and Antibacterial Properties

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is a valuable plant with a potential health benefit because of its extensive bioactive compounds. Leaf extracts of 33 kenaf genotypes were investigated for their polysaccharide, total phenolic, and flavonoid content. The antioxidant properties were evaluated by 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) assays. Antimicrobial capacity was also assessed against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli using a disc diffusion assay. The polysaccharide content varied from 6.45-16.12 mg glucose per g DW. Total phenolic and flavonoid content ranged from 6.03-21.15 mg GAE/g DW and 1.55-9.24 mg RE/g DW, respectively. Similarly, varied values in the range 20.55-79.99% of inhibition by DPPH, 56.28-88.30% of inhibition by ABTS and 1.26-5.08 mmol Fe²⁺/g DW by FRAP assays were obtained for antioxidants of the genotype extracts. Extracts from CS4 and CS2 genotypes had the highest antioxidant activities. Kenaf leaves exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Strong correlation was found between antioxidant activity with polysaccharide (DPPH, r = 0.893; ABTS, r = 0.819; FRAP, r = 0.864) and total phenolic content (DPPH, r = 0.850; ABTS, r = 0.959; FRAP, r = 0.953). The results suggested that the kenaf leaves could be used as a natural antioxidants and antimicrobial in food industries.

Ethanol extract of mulberry leaves partially restores the composition of intestinal microbiota and strengthens liver glycogen fragility in type 2 diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Mulberry leaf as a traditional Chinese medicine is able to treat obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. It is well known that diabetes leads to intestinal microbiota dysbiosis. It is also recently discovered that liver glycogen structure is impaired in diabetic animals. Since mulberry leaves are able to improve the diabetic conditions through reducing blood glucose level, it would be interesting to investigate whether they have any positive effects on intestinal microbiota and liver glycogen structure.

METHODS

In this study, we first determined the bioactive components of ethanol extract of mulberry leaves via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Murine animal models were divided into three groups, normal Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) induced type 2 diabetic rats, and HFD/STZ-induced rats administered with ethanol extract of mulberry leaves (200 mg/kg/day). Composition of intestinal microbiota was analyzed via metagenomics by sequencing the V3-V4 region of 16S rDNAs. Liver glycogen structure was characterized through size exclusion chromatography (SEC). Both Student's t-test and Tukey's test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

A group of type 2 diabetic rat models were successfully established. Intestinal microbiota analysis showed that ethanol extract of mulberry leaves could partially change intestinal microbiota back to normal conditions. In addition, liver glycogen was restored from fragile state to stable state through administration of ethanol extract of mulberry leaves.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms that the ethanol extract of mulberry leaves (MLE) ameliorates intestinal microbiota dysbiosis and strengthens liver glycogen fragility in diabetic rats. These finding can be helpful in discovering the novel therapeutic targets with the help of further investigations.

Nutritional constituents of mulberry and their potential applications in food and pharmaceuticals: A review

Mulberry is a fast growing deciduous plant found in wide variety of climatic, topographical and soil conditions, and is widely distributed from temperate to subtropical regions. Due to presence of valuable phytochemical constituents, mulberry as a whole plant has been utilized as a functional food since long time. Mulberry fruits are difficult to preserve as they have relatively high water content. Therefore for proper utilization, different value-added products like syrups, squashes, teas, pestil sand köme, pekmez (turkuish by-products), yogurts, jams, jellies, wines, vinegar, breads, biscuits, parathas, and many more are made. In overseas, these value-added products are commercially sold and easily available, though in India, this versatile medicinal plant is still missing its identity at commercial and industrial scale. Leaves of mulberry are economically viable due to their important role in the sericulture industry since ancient times. Mulberries or its extracts exhibit excellent anti-microbial, anti-hyperglycaemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer effects and is used to combat different acute and chronic diseases. Different parts of Morus species like fruits, leaves, twigs, and bark exhibit strong anti-tyrosinase inhibition activity that makes it a suitable candidate in cosmetic industries as a whitening agent. The current review provides a comprehensive discussion concerning the phytochemical constituents, functionality and nutraceutical potential of mulberry and as a common ingredient in various cosmetic products.

Morus alba L. Plant: Bioactive Compounds and Potential as a Functional Food Ingredient

Morus alba L. (M. alba) is a highly adaptable plant that is extensively incorporated in many traditional and Ayurveda medications. Various parts of the plant, such as leaves, fruits, and seeds, possess nutritional and medicinal value. M. alba has abundant phytochemicals, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavonols, anthocyanins, macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, and volatile aromatic compounds, indicating its excellent pharmacological abilities. M. alba also contains high nutraceutical values for protein, carbohydrates, fiber, organic acids, vitamins, and minerals, as well as a low lipid value. However, despite its excellent biological properties and nutritional value, M. alba has not been fully considered as a potential functional food ingredient. Therefore, this review reports on the nutrients and bioactive compounds available in M. alba leaves, fruit, and seeds; its nutraceutical properties, functional properties as an ingredient in foodstuffs, and a microencapsulation technique to enhance polyphenol stability. Finally, as scaling up to a bigger production plant is needed to accommodate industrial demand, the study and limitation on an M. alba upscaling process is reviewed.

Potential of Mulberry Leaf Biomass and Its Flavonoids to Improve Production and Health in Ruminants: Mechanistic Insights and Prospects

Leaf biomass from the mulberry plant (genus Morus and family Moraceae) is considered a potential resource for livestock feeding. Mulberry leaves (MLs) contain high protein (14.0-34.2%) and metabolizable energy (1130-2240 kcal/kg) with high dry matter (DM) digestibility (75-85%) and palatability. Flavonoid contents of MLs confer unique antioxidant properties and can potentially help alleviate oxidative stress in animals during stressful periods, such as neonatal, weaning, and periparturient periods. In addition, mulberry leaf flavonoids (MLFs) possess antimicrobial properties and can effectively decrease the population of ruminal methanogens and protozoa to reduce enteric methane (CH4) production. Owing to its rich flavonoid content, feeding MLs increases fiber digestion and utilization leading to enhanced milk production in ruminants. Dietary supplementation with MLFs alters ruminal fermentation kinetics by increasing total volatile fatty acids, propionate, and ammonia concentrations. Furthermore, they can substantially increase the population of specific cellulolytic bacteria in the rumen. Owing to their structural homology with steroid hormones, the MLFs can potentially modulate different metabolic pathways particularly those linked with energy homeostasis. This review aims to highlight the potential of ML and its flavonoids to modulate the ruminal microbiome, fermentation, and metabolic status to enhance productive performance and health in ruminants while reducing CH4 emission.

Improving the Quality and Shelf-life of Raw Rabbit Meat During Refrigeration Storage Using Olive/mulberry Leaves Extracts Dipping

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The consumption of fresh rabbit meat has become more popular among consumers in recent years, but they are easily perishable. In this study antioxidant and antimicrobial effects of mulberry (Morus nigra) leaves extract (MLE) and olive (Olea europaea) leaves extract (OLE) dip treatments at 2% w/v on the quality attributes and shelf-life of fresh rabbit meat during chilling storage under aerobic conditions were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rabbit meat samples were refrigerated at 4±1°C to be periodically examined for their sensory quality, physicochemical parameters and bacteriological status.

RESULTS

Results indicated that as the time of cold storage progressed, the overall mean scores of physicochemical and microbiological parameters were increased, while sensory scores were decreased (p<0.05) irrespective of treatment. Both natural extracts (MLE/OLE) significantly (p<0.05) delayed oxidative quality changes, protein deterioration and proliferation of bacteria noticed during the chilling study.

CONCLUSION

Olive leaves extract (OLE; 2%) was more significant (p<0.05) positively affect than mulberry leaves extract (MLE; 2%) in maintaining chemical indices, lipid stability, consumer acceptance, microbial load and can prolonged the expiry of treated rabbit meat by 4 days as compared to control one. Hence, the potential of olive leaves extract to preserve rabbit meat during cold storage has been demonstrated.

Mulberry Leaf Flavonoids Improve Milk Production, Antioxidant, and Metabolic Status of Water Buffaloes

This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of mulberry leaf flavonoids (MLF) on oxidative stress, metabolic hormones, and milk production in Murrah buffaloes. Forty multiparous Murrah buffaloes (4 ± 1 lactations) with similar body weight (average 600 ± 50 Kg) and stage of lactation (90 ± 20 d) were randomly selected for this trial. Four treatment groups (10 buffaloes per group) with different doses of MLF included; control (0 g/d), MLF15 (15 g/d), MLF30 (30 g/d), and MLF45 (45 g/d). Buffaloes were fed with total mix ration consisting of grass (Pennisetum purpureum schum), brewery's grain and concentrate mixture for 5 weeks. Meteorological data including ambient temperature and relative humidity were recorded using the online dust monitoring system to calculate temperature-humidity index (THI). After 1 week of the adaptation, milk yield was recorded daily while physiological parameters (respiratory rate, rectal, and body surface temperature), and milk composition were measured weekly. At the end of the trial, blood samples were collected to analyze serum metabolic hormones including estradiol (E2), growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), Tri-iodothyronine (T3), and Thyroxine (T4). Moreover, serum heat shock proteins (HSP), antioxidants enzymes including malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and blood biochemical indices were also analyzed. Results revealed a decrease (P = 0.012) in serum MDA level while increasing (P < 0.01) the HSP and serum GHS-Px contents in supplemented buffaloes. Treatment showed a linear and quadratic decrease (p = 0.001) in the serum T-AOC while reducing CAT contents linearly (p = 0.012) as compared to the control. However, no effect of treatment on serum SOD content was observed. Treatment resulted a linear increase (p = 0.001) in serum GH and PRL hormones while increasing serum E2 levels linearly (P < 0.001) and quadratically (P = 0.025). Treatment increased (p = 0.038) the daily milk yield as compared to the control. However, increase (P < 0.05) in serum T3 and T4 contents, fat corrected milk (4%) and milk protein (%) was observed only in MLF45. Moreover, we observed no change in serum biochemical indices except insulin which linearly increased (p = 0.002) in MLF45. Our findings indicated that MLF at 45 g per day is an appropriate level to enhance milk performance and alleviate heat stress in buffaloes.

Effect of Thermal Processing on Physico-Chemical and Antioxidant Properties in Mulberry Silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) Powder

The mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) is a common edible insect in many countries. However, the impact of thermal processing, especially regarding Thai silkworm powder, is poorly known. We, therefore, determined the optimum time for treatment in hot water and subsequent drying temperatures in the production of silkworm powder. The silkworms exposed to 90 °C water for 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 min showed values of Total Phenolic Compounds (TPCs), 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging (DPPH) assay, 2,2'-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assay, and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay that were significantly (p < 0.05) higher at the 5 min exposure time compared with the other times. The reduction of microorganisms based on log CFU/g counts was ≥3 log CFU/g (99%) at the 5 min treatment. To determine the optimum drying temperature, the silkworms exposed to 90 °C water for 5 min were subjected to a hot-air dryer at 80, 100, 120, and 140 °C. The TPC value was the highest (p < 0.05) at 80 °C. The silkworm powder possessed significantly (p < 0.05) higher DPPH, ABTS radical scavenging ability, and ferric ion reducing capability (FRAP assay) at 80 °C compared with other drying temperatures. This study indicates that shorter exposure times to hot water and a low drying temperature preserve the antioxidant activities. High antioxidant activities (in addition to its known protein and fat content) suggest that silkworms and silkworm powder can make a valuable contribution to human health.

Improving fermentation, protein preservation and antioxidant activity of Moringa oleifera leaves silage with gallic acid and tannin acid

Whether tannins reducing proteolysis is related to protease or the antioxidant capacity could be preserved during Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) ensiling are unclear. In the present study, MOL ensiled with 1% and 2% gallic acid (GA) or tannic acid (TA) were analyzed for fermentation parameters, protein fractions, protease activities and antioxidant capacity on day 3, 7, 14 and 30 of ensiling. The results showed that GA and TA decreased dry matter loss (11.13% vs 8.35% and 3.11%, in the level of 2%) and proteolysis (nonprotein-N: 56.31% vs 32.64% and 26.04% TN). Meanwhile, GA and TA increased pH, yeasts number, ammonia-N content and aminopeptidase activity. The antioxidant capacity of MOL silage gradually increased during ensiling, and was dramatically enhanced by the addition of GA and TA. In conclusion, this study suggests that GA and TA could help to improve the preservation of protein and antioxidant capacity during MOL ensiling.

The Effect of Adding the Leaves and Fruits of Morus alba to Rape Honey on Its Antioxidant Properties, Polyphenolic Profile, and Amylase Activity

Two various species of mulberry (Morus sp.) were selected to enrich rape honey with dried leaves or lyophilized fruits (4% w/v). Finally, fruits and leaves of the ‘Ukraińska’ clone were introduced into the honey during creaming in concentrations from 1 to 4% w/v. The total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, anthocyanins content, and polyphenolic profile were tested in plant extracts and enriched honeys. Moreover, α-glucosidase, β-galactosidase, and diastase activities were investigated in honeys. For mulberry extracts, chlorogenic acid isomers and rutin were considered main antioxidant compounds. The antioxidant activity of honey enriched with mulberry leaves increased even more than 50 times, due to introducing numerous phenolic acids and flavonoid glycosides. A significant decrease in the diastase activity in honey depending on the content of added mulberry leaves (almost 50% decrease in the case of 4% addition) was found, suggesting the inhibitory effect of honey with mulberry leaves against carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes.