Phenolic profiles, antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant properties of pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel extract

Photoperiod-Dependent Effects on Blood Biochemical Markers of Phenolic-Enriched Fruit Extracts

Fruits are rich in bioactive compounds, such as (poly)phenols, and their intake is associated with health benefits, although recent animal studies have suggested that the photoperiod of consumption influences their properties. Fruit loss and waste are critical issues that can be reduced by obtaining functional fruit extracts. Therefore, the aim of this study was to obtain phenolic-enriched extracts from eight seasonal fruits that can modulate blood biochemical parameters and to investigate whether their effects depend on the photoperiod of consumption. Eight ethanol-based extracts were obtained and characterized, and their effects were studied in F344 rats exposed to short (6 h light, L6) and long (18 h light) photoperiods. Cherry and apricot extracts decreased blood triacylglyceride levels only when consumed under the L6 photoperiod. Pomegranate, grape, and orange extracts reduced cholesterol and fasting glucose levels during the L6 photoperiod; however, plum extract reduced fasting glucose levels only during the L18 photoperiod. The results showed the importance of photoperiod consumption in the effectiveness of phenolic-enriched fruit extracts and promising evidence regarding the use of some of the developed fruit extracts as potential functional ingredients for the management of several blood biomarkers.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) phytochemicals target the components of metabolic syndrome

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a multipurpose dietary and medicinal plant known for its ability to promote various health benefits. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex metabolic disorder driving health and socioeconomic challenges worldwide. It may be characterized by insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. This study aims to conduct a review of pomegranate's effects on MetS parameters using a mechanistic approach relying on pre-clinical studies. The peel, juice, roots, bark, seeds, flowers, and leaves of the fruit present several bioactive compounds that are related mainly to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities as well as cardioprotective, antidiabetic, and antiobesity effects. The use of the juice extract can work as a potent inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme activities, consequently regulating blood pressure. The major bioactive compounds found within the fruit are phenolic compounds (hydrolysable tannins and flavonoids) and fatty acids. Alkaloids, punicalagin, ellagitannins, ellagic acid, anthocyanins, tannins, flavonoids, luteolin, and punicic acid are also present. The antihyperglycemia, antihyperlipidemia, and weight loss promoting effects are likely related to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When considering clinical application, pomegranate extracts are found to be frequently well-tolerated, further supporting its efficacy as a treatment modality. We suggest that pomegranate fruit, extract, or processed products can be used to counteract MetS-related risk factors. This review represents an important step towards exploring potential avenues for further research in this area.

Phytochemical profile, nutritional composition of pomegranate peel and peel extract as a potential source of nutraceutical: A comprehensive review

The current study focuses on Punica granatum L. (pomegranate) peel and peel extract and their use as functional foods, food additives, or physiologically active constituents in nutraceutical formulations. The pomegranate peel extract is a good source of bioactive substances needed for the biological activity of the fruit, including phenolic acids, minerals, flavonoids (anthocyanins), and hydrolyzable tannins (gallic acid). The macromolecules found in pomegranate peel and peel extract have been recommended as substitutes for synthetic nutraceuticals, food additives, and chemo-preventive agents because of their well-known ethno-medical significance and chemical properties. Moreover, considering the promises for both their health-promoting activities and chemical properties, the dietary and nutraceutical significance of pomegranate peel and pomegranate peel extract appears to be underestimated. The present review article details their nutritional composition, phytochemical profile, food applications, nutraceutical action, and health benefits.

Effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peel on the growth performance and intestinal microbiota of broilers challenged with Escherichia coli

The effects of pomegranate peel on the growth performance, intestinal morphology, and the cecal microbial community were investigated in broilers challenged with avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) O78. A total of 240 one-day-old chicks (120 males and 120 females) were randomly and evenly allotted into 4 treatment groups (each with 6 biological replicates each of 10 chicks), i.e., negative control (NC), positive control (PC), and 2 experimental groups treated with 0.2% fermented pomegranate peel (FP) and 0.2% unfermented pomegranate peel (UFP), respectively, with PC, FP, and UFP groups challenged with APEC O78 (5 × 108 CFU) on day 14. Results showed that the challenge of APEC O78 decreased the body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) of broilers from 1 to 28 d (P < 0.01). These broilers exhibited more pathological conditions in the heart and liver and higher mortality rates in 28 d compared to the NC group. Diet supplemented with pomegranate peel (either fermented or unfermented) significantly increased BW, ADG, and the villus height/crypt depth ratio (VCR) of small intestine in 28 d compared to the NC group (P < 0.05). Results of the taxonomic structure of the gut microbiota showed that compared to the NC group, the APEC challenge significantly decreased the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and increased the relative abundance of Firmicutes (P < 0.01). Compared to the PC group, the relative abundance of Ruminococcus_torques_group in FP group was increased, while the relative abundance of Alistipes was decreased. In summary, our study showed that the dietary supplementation of pomegranate peel could maintain the intestinal microbiota at a state favorable to the host, effectively reduce the abnormal changes in the taxonomic structure of the intestinal microbiota, and improve the growth performance in broilers treated with APEC.

Therapeutic potential of natural products in inflammation: underlying molecular mechanisms, clinical outcomes, technological advances, and future perspectives

Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many major diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, and is responsible for up to 60% of all deaths worldwide. Metformin, statins, and corticosteroids, and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are often given as anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals, however, often have even more debilitating side effects than the illness itself. The natural product-based therapy of inflammation-related diseases has no adverse effects and good beneficial results compared to substitute conventional anti-inflammatory medications. In this review article, we provide a concise overview of present pharmacological treatments, the pathophysiology of inflammation, and the signaling pathways that underlie it. In addition, we focus on the most promising natural products identified as potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents. Moreover, preclinical studies and clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of natural products as anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents and their pragmatic applications with promising outcomes are reviewed. In addition, the safety, side effects and technical barriers of natural products are discussed. Furthermore, we also summarized the latest technological advances in the discovery and scientific development of natural products-based medicine.

The Modulatory Bioeffects of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Polyphenols on Metabolic Disorders: Understanding Their Preventive Role against Metabolic Syndrome

Modern research achievements support the health-promoting effects of natural products and diets rich in polyphenols. Pomegranate (PG) (Punica granatum L.) contains a considerable number of bioactive compounds that exert a broad spectrum of beneficial biological activities, including antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antiobesity, and atheroprotective properties. In this context, the reviewed literature shows that PG intake might reduce insulin resistance, cytokine levels, redox gene expression, blood pressure elevation, vascular injuries, and lipoprotein oxidative modifications. The lipid parameter corrective capabilities of PG-ellagitannins have also been extensively reported to be significantly effective in reducing hyperlipidemia (TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, and TAGs), while increasing plasma HDL-C concentrations and improving the TC/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C ratios. The health benefits of pomegranate consumption seem to be acheived through the amelioration of adipose tissue endocrine function, fatty acid utilization, GLUT receptor expression, paraoxonase activity enhancement, and the modulation of PPAR and NF-κB. While the results from animal experiments are promising, human findings published in this field are inconsistent and are still limited in several aspects. The present review aims to discuss and provide a critical analysis of PG's bioeffects on the components of metabolic syndrome, type-2 diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia, as well as on certain cardiovascular-related diseases. Additionally, a brief overview of the pharmacokinetic properties, safety, and bioavailability of PG-ellagitannins is included.

Chemical Profiling of Nitraria roborowskii Kom. by UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS and Their Hypolipidemic Effects in Vivo

The Nitraria roborowskii Kom. (NRK) berries, as fruits of the genus Nitraria of the Zygophyllceae family, have been widely used as folk medicine. Modern pharmacological research has demonstrated that Nitraria berries had hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, and immunomodulatory effects. However, more research needs to be reported on the chemical composition and biological activity of NRK. Hence, the phenolic compounds in the NRK berries were comprehensively analyzed and characterized by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Quadruple-Orbitrap MS system (UPLC-Q-Orbitrap MS) in this study. In total, 52 phenolics were identified, and all were reported for the first time. In addition, the hypolipidemic efficacy of NRK berries extract was studied in the hyperlipidemic mouse model. After treatment, the high dose group of NRK substantially reversed total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Through lipidomics technology, 27 potential biomarkers were characterized. And there was a significant callback at 25 of them after NRK treatment by using statistical analysis methods. Pathway analysis results demonstrated that NRK might exert therapeutic effects by regulating glycerophospholipid and glycerolipid metabolism pathways. This study could provide firsthand information on NRK berries for their phenolic compounds and potential application in preventing and treating hyperlipidemia.

Phenolic Profiles, Antihyperglycemic, Anti-Diabetic, and Antioxidant Properties of Egyptian Sonchus oleraceus Leaves Extract: An In Vivo Study

This study aimed to investigate the phenolic and antioxidant properties of Egyptian Sonchus oleraceus leaves extract (SOE) while comparing the antihyperglycemic efficacy of SOE with that of conventional medicines (glibenclamide) in vivo as a substitution for insulin-deficient patients. Total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC) in SOE contributed around 127.66 ± 0.56 mg GAE/gm as gallic acid equivalent (GAE) and 74.80 ± 0.55 mg QE/gm as quercetin equivalent (QE). SOE also showed significant DPPH scavenging activity at 43.46%. The presence of five phenolic and six flavonoid compounds in SOE was discovered by HPLC analysis. For the in vivo assay, 42 rats were distributed into six groups (7 Wister albino rats each). The standard control group was fed a basal diet. While the 35 rats were induced with a single dose of 100 mg kg-1 body weight (b.w.) alloxan, then treated orally with glibenclamide (GLI) at 10 mg kg-1, 100, 200, and 300 mg kg-1 SOE (positive control group) for 56 days of routine gastric oral gavages and compared to the effects of GLI, the treatment of SOE 200 and 300 mg kg-1 in diabetic rats for two months dramatically decreased blood glucose, total lipid, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) while boosting high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) levels and improving liver and kidney functions. The histological assay revealed that the SOE 300 mg kg-1 treatment significantly improved the pancreas tissues, implying the potential application of Egyptian SOE as a diabetes treatment.

The effects of pomegranate peel added bread on anthropometric measurements, metabolic and oxidative parameters in individuals with type 2 diabetes: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensory properties of antioxidant-rich bread made by adding pomegranate peels and their effects on anthropometric measurements and metabolic and oxidative parameters of individuals with type 2 diabetes after consumption.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 22 individuals aged between 19 and 64 years who had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes for at least 5 years, used only metformin, did not lose more than 10% of their body weight in the last 6 months, and had a body mass index of ≥ 25.0 kg/m². While the study group (n = 11) consumed bread containing 500 mg pomegranate peel daily for 8 wk, the control group (n = 11) consumed standard bread. Anthropometric measurements and metabolic and oxidative parameters of individuals were evaluated at the beginning and end of the study.

RESULTS

Decreases were detected in the waist circumference, waist/hip and waist/height ratios, body fat percentages, blood pressure, and serum insulin, triglyceride, and total cholesterol levels in the individuals in the treatment group, compared with those in the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Pomegranate peel consumption by individuals with type 2 diabetes may have positive effects on anthropometric measurements and glycemic and lipid parameters.

Polyphenol Bioaccessibility and Antioxidant Activity of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Peel Supplementation in Diet-Induced Obese Rats

Fruit by-products are a source of biocompounds with antioxidant properties and potential role in the obesity treatment. This study aimed to assess the effect of pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel (PP) supplementation on the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in diet-induced obese rats. Thus, an in vitro gastrointestinal digestion was performed to evaluate the total phenolic content (TPC) and the antioxidant capacity of PP. Moreover, 15 male Wistar rats were randomized into three groups: control diet (CTL; 3.35 kcal/g), cafeteria (CAF) diet (3.72 kcal/g), and CAF diet supplemented with PP (CAF + PP; 200 mg/kg body weight; 3.72 kcal/g). Serum TAC was analyzed by ferric reducing antioxidant power and 2,2-Diphenil-1-picrylhydrazil assay. TPC in PP accounted for 8.82 ± 0.14 mg GAE/g in undigested samples. However, an in vitro digestion process was decreased by 94% the bioaccessibility of PP phenolic compounds in the intestinal phase, while PP supplementation increased serum TAC in diet-induced obese rats. Therefore, although PP phenolic compounds diminished after an in vitro digestion process, antioxidant effect was found in obese rats supplemented with PP.

Crosstalk between dietary pomegranate and gut microbiota: evidence of health benefits

Gut microbiota (GM) is an invisible organ that plays an important role in human health. Increasing evidence suggests that polyphenols in pomegranate (punicalagin, PU) could serve as prebiotics to modulate the composition and function of GM. In turn, GM transform PU into bioactive metabolites such as ellagic acid (EA) and urolithin (Uro). In this review, the interplay between pomegranate and GM is thoroughly described by unveiling a dialog in which both actors seem to affect each other's roles. In a first dialog, the influence of bioactive compounds from pomegranate on GM is described. The second act shows how the GM biotransform pomegranate phenolics into Uro. Finally, the health benefits of Uro and that related molecular mechanism are summarized and discussed. Intake of pomegranate promotes beneficial bacteria in GM (e.g. Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp.) while reducing the growth of harmful bacteria (e.g. Bacteroides fragilis group, Clostridia). Akkermansia muciniphila, and Gordonibacter spp., among others, biotransform PU and EA into Uro. Uro contributes to strengthening intestinal barrier and reducing inflammatory processes. Yet, Uro production varies greatly among individuals and depend on GM composition. Uro-producing bacteria and precise metabolic pathways need to be further elucidated therefore contributing to personalized and precision nutrition.

Physicochemical properties of Tunisian pomegranate fruits Punica granatum L. grown at different climatic zones of Yunnan, China

The artificial cultivation of Mengzi pomegranate has been conducted on a large area for more than 30 years in Yunnan, China. As the quality of pomegranate cultivars have degraded seriously, new cultivars have gradually been introduced to meet market demand. Comparative quality evaluation of different pomegranate varieties is beneficial to guide cultivar improvement and cultural program modification. The present study investigated the differences of physicochemical characteristics of the introduced Tunisian soft-seed pomegranate in different climate zones in Yunnan, China. Meanwhile, the differences between native cultivars (Tian guan yan (TGY) and Tian lv zi (TLZ)) and introduced cultivar were also compared. It was found that the Tunisian soft-seed pomegranate grown in Huize (Tunisian pomegranate in Huize, TH) in the temperate plateau monsoon climate belt had the highest fruit weight, % of seed, TAC, TPC, TSS, amino acids, and Mn, and had the lowest organic acids and Na. While grown in the subtropical monsoon climate area Shiping (Tunisian pomegranate in Shiping, TS), the Tunisian pomegranate fruits had the highest amounts of Cu. Commonly, there were significant correlations between cultivation climate regions and fruit properties. The contents of the TSS, TAC, TPC, flavor amino acids and organic acids varied with planted climate zones. The introduced Tunisian soft-seed pomegranate has comparable levels of physicochemical characteristics with the local main cultivars in the same planted climate region. Tunisian soft-seed pomegranate of higher quality can be obtained in Huize area. Collectively, the climate difference and cultivar shift have a significant effect on pomegranate production in Yunnan, and pomegranate with good quality can be obtained by using proper cultivars in optimized climate zone.

Pomegranate Peel in the Amelioration of High-Altitude Disease: A Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Study of Underlying Mechanisms

High-altitude disease (HAD) describes the failure to adapt to the lack of oxygen found at high altitudes and therapeutic antioxidant effects have been attributed to pomegranate peel (PP) extract. Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation were used to study mechanisms responsible for the alleviation of HAD by PP. The aim was to establish a reference for future research and aid technological development, particularly in clinical settings. Network pharmacology analysis showed that PP affected many targets in HAD via the active ingredients, luteolin 7-O-glycoside, punicalagin, and ellagic acid. HNRNPA1, HSPA1B, HSPA1A, CUL4B, CLTC, PPP1CA, PARP1, RACK1, NEDD8, and MAP3K1 were all targets, responsible for effects on ribosomes, apoptosis, cell cycle, mRNA surveillance pathway, and the MAPK signaling pathway. PP had an antiapoptosis effect on H9c2 cells damaged by hypoxia, as shown by annexinV-FITC/PI double staining. Practical Applications. HAD comprises a group of diseases caused by failure to adapt to a low-oxygen environment. PP extract has previously been shown to have antioxidant effects. PP attenuated damage to H9c2 cells and reduced the apoptosis rate. The current results lay the foundation for further experimental investigations.

"Ficus johannis Boiss. leaves ethanolic extract ameliorate streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats by upregulating the expressions of GCK, GLUT4, and IGF and downregulating G6P"

The leaves of Ficus johannis Boiss (F. johannis), commonly known as Fig tree, Anjir, and Teen, are used by the folk medicinal practitioners in Iran for controlling hyperglycemia in diabetic patients. This study investigated the pharmacological basis for antidiabetic effect of the ethanolic extract of F. johannis leaves using in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Qualitative screening of phytochemicals, estimation of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, and in vitro antioxidant and α-amylase inhibition assays were performed. Moreover, the High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) quantification, acute toxicity, glucose tolerance, and in vivo antidiabetic effect along with the evaluation of gene expressions involved in diabetes mellitus were carried out. Significant quantities of phenolic (71.208 ± 2.89 mgg^-1 GAE) and flavonoid (26.38 ± 3.53 mgg^-1 QE) were present. Inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of the plant extract exhibited an excellent in vitro antioxidant (IC₅₀ = 33.81 µg/mL) and α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 12.18 µg/mL) inhibitory potential. The HPLC analysis confirmed the gallic acid (257.79 mgg^-1) as main constituent of the extract followed by kaempferol (22.86 mgg^-1), myricetin (0.16 mgg^-1), and quercetin (3.22 mgg^-1). Ethanolic extract displayed glucose tolerance in normo-glycemic rats. Streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia declined dose dependently in the extract treated rats with improvement in lipid profile and liver and renal function biomarkers. The F. johannis-treated groups showed an increase in mRNA expressions of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT-4), glucokinase, insulin growth like factor 1 and peroxisomal proliferator activating receptor gamma in pancreas. However, the Glucose-6-phosphatase was downregulated. Present study suggests that the ethanolic extract of F. johannis leaves demonstrates a good anti-diabetic profile by improving insulin sensitivity, GLUT-4 translocation, and carbohydrate metabolism while inhibiting lipogenesis.

Potential of phenolic compounds from pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) by-product with significant antioxidant and therapeutic effects: A narrative review

The wealth of epidemiological evidence in the scientific world underscores the possibility that a plant-based diet can reduce the prevalence of common diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and stroke. The therapeutic effects of plant sources are partly explained by phenolic secondary metabolites or polyphenolic compounds. Therefore, polyphenolic compounds, which are widely distributed in plants, are of great interest for the development of effective specific drugs with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, polyphenol compounds have no harmful effects due to their natural biocompatibility and safety. Numerous studies have highlighted the potential of some industrial food wastes from plant material processing, including apple peels and mashed potatoes, grape skins, tomato and carrot peels, pomegranate peels and seeds, and many others. These byproducts are considered low-cost sources of natural biological compounds, including antioxidants, which have beneficial effects on human health. The polyphenol complex of pomegranate peel (Punica granatum L.), which makes up half of the pomegranate fruit, has more pronounced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties than other parts. And the most important active components of pomegranate peel, which are found only in this plant, are punicalagin, followed by ellagic acid and gallic acid. It is known that these polyphenolic compounds of pomegranate peel have the most pronounced therapeutic effect. Several studies have shown the protective effect of ellagic acid, punicalagin, against oxidative stress damage caused by free radicals. The potential of pomegranate peel as an antioxidant and therapeutic component in various biological systems is high, according to scientific sources. However, despite extensive research in recent years, a review of sources has shown that there is insufficient evidence to support the therapeutic effects of polyphenolic compounds from pomegranate peels. The role of pomegranate peel polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids, as antioxidants in various biological systems also requires further research. Of particular importance are the mechanisms by which antioxidants influence the cellular response against oxidative stress. The purpose of this review was to report our current knowledge of plant polyphenolic compounds and their classification, and to evaluate the potential of phenolic compounds from pomegranate peels with significant antioxidant and therapeutic effects.

Role and mechanism of fruit waste polyphenols in diabetes management

Among various diseases in humans, diabetes is one of the most complicated disorders resulting either from the malfunctioning of β cells, causing a poor discharge of insulin from them, or poor functioning of the liberated insulin. A wide array of chemical compounds so-called secondary metabolites are present in plants. These phytochemicals are produced as by-products of metabolism and play a key role in plant protection. However, in humans, they offer several beneficial functions. Polyphenols are an important class of phytochemicals and apart from fruits, they are also found in their major wastes mainly including the peel, pomace, and seed. The current review is aimed to focus on the potential sources, distribution, and extraction/isolation of polyphenols from major fruit wastes along with highlighting their medicinal and therapeutic benefits, especially in the management of diabetes.

Anticancer Effect of Pomegranate Peel Polyphenols against Cervical Cancer

Polyphenols are a broad group of bioactive phytochemicals with powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antiviral activities. Numerous studies have demonstrated that polyphenol extracts obtained from natural sources can be used for the prevention and treatment of cancer. Pomegranate peel extract is an excellent source of polyphenols, such as punicalagin, punicalin, ellagic acid, and caffeic acid, among others. These phenolic compounds have antineoplastic activity in in vitro models of cervical cancer through the regulation of cellular redox balance, induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and modulation of different signaling pathways. The current review summarizes recent data from scientific reports that address the anticancer activity of the predominant polyphenol compounds present in PPE and their different mechanisms of action in cervical cancer models.

Artabotrys odoratissimus Bark Extract Restores Ethanol Induced Redox Imbalance and Toxicity in Hepatocytes and In Vivo Model

Alcohol-induced oxidative stress is a key player in the development of liver diseases, and herbal alternatives are important means of ameliorating the hepatotoxic effects. The study aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective potentiality of Artabotrys odoratissimus, an important medicinal shrub from the family Annonaceae. The phenolic compounds from bark ethanol extract (BEE) were detected using RP-HPLC. The in vitro hepatoprotective activity against ethanol-induced damage was studied in HepG2 cells with cell viability assays, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, double staining assay and western blotting. The in vivo mice model was used to evaluate the alcohol-induced stress with liver function enzymes, lipid profile and histopathology. All the thirteen phenolic compounds detected with HPLC were docked onto protein targets such as aspartate amino transferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (NO). The RP-HPLC detected the presence of various phenolics including rutin, chlorogenic acid and catechin, amongst others. Co-administration of BEE with ethanol alleviated cell death, ROS and MMP in HepG2 cells compared to the negative control. The extract also modulated the MAP kinase/caspase-3 pathway, thereby showing protective effects in HepG2 cells. Also, pre-treatment for 14 days with the extract in the mice model before a single toxic dose (5 g/kg body weight) reduced the liver injury by bringing the levels of liver function enzymes, lipid profile and bilirubin to near normal. In silico analysis revealed that rutin showed the best binding affinity with all the target proteins in the study. These results provide evidence that BEE possesses significant hepatoprotective effects against ethanol-induced oxidative stress in hepatic cells and in vivo models, which is further validated with in silico analysis.

Punica Granatum Peel Waste- An Underutilized Substrate of Therapeutic Potential: An Overview

India is the second largest consumer and producer of fruits globally. It leads to ample solid waste per year from fruit processing industries that have been proven hazardous to the surroundings. Punica granatum (Pomegranate) belongs to the Lythraceae subfamily Punicoideae, which exhibits immense nutritional properties and delicious flavoring components. The weight of this fruit mainly consists of peel, i.e., 50%, followed by 40% of arils and 10% of seeds. Thus, the major byproduct is a peel that holds many valuable bioactive compounds in higher concentrations viz saponins, carotenoids, steroids, polyphenols, quercetin derivatives, caffeic acid, phenolic acids, flavonoids, ellagitannins, p-coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, quinic acid, anthocyanidins, triterpenoids, glycosides, tannins, and many more. Consequently, it results in wide-ranging therapeutic applications, including antioxidative, anti-microbial, antihypertensive, anti-carcinogenic, anti-genotoxic, anti-inflammatory, glucoregulation, cardio-protective, hepato-protective and nephroprotective effects along with prebiotic potential. Considering their nutritional and therapeutic aspects, these peels can be used for many purposes rather than being disposed of. With a value-added approach, it is utilized in many food and non-food sectors. So, this review aims to explore the therapeutic potential of P. granatum peel and enlighten its diverse applications in the food industry.

Punica granatum as Anticandidal and Anti-HIV Agent: An HIV Oral Cavity Potential Drug

The oral cavity is crucial from diagnosis to adherence to HAART therapy in the HIV/AIDS population; consequently, drugs that can maintain healthy conditions in the oral cavity are necessary for patients with HIV/AIDS. Punica granatum (pomegranate) is a tree that has been employed extensively for centuries in the traditional medicine of ancient cultures for the treatment of a wide range of diseases, including oral and dental diseases. In recent decades, its potent anticandidal properties have been shown, especially on Candida albicans, the cause of the most common clinical manifestation in HIV patients. The present work contributes to the review of the anti-HIV and anticandidal properties of the plant species P. granatum as involved with the oral cavity. The literature reviewed revealed that crude extracts of pomegranate and its main isolated compounds possess inhibitory activity on different HIV targets, including binding viral proteins and the three replicative HIV enzymes. In addition, in the literature reviewed, pomegranate exhibited anticandidal effects on 10 different species. Thus, pomegranate appears to be an excellent candidate to explore and incorporate into the treatment of the oral cavity of HIV/AIDS patients, in that, in addition to its pharmacological effects such as antiviral and anticandidal, pomegranate represents an easily available, inexpensive, and safe natural source.

Globularia alypum Extracts Attenuate Hyperglycemia and Protect against Various Organ Toxicities in Alloxan-Induced Experimental Diabetic Rats

In this study, we attempted for the first time to determine the phytochemical compositions and biopharmaceutical properties of Globularia alypum methanol extract (GAME) and Globularia alypum water extract (GAWE). High-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) analysis was performed to establish the chemical profile of the investigated extracts. Chemical composition analysis was taken in the presence of various bioactive compounds such as quercetin 7-O-glucoside and apigenin 7-O-glucoside in GAME. In GAWE, various abundant compounds were found in the extract such as quercetin 7-O-glucoside, apigenin, quercetin, apigenin 7-O-glucoside, and cinnamic acid. This study showed that the administration of GAWE and GAME to type 1 diabetic rats decreased fasting blood glucose, protected pancreas β-cells from death and injury, increased liver glycogen rate, and ameliorated oral glucose tolerance test. Moreover, GA reduced weight loss, and diabetes decreased basic physical activity. In addition, the administration of GA extracts in diabetic rats protected from diabetes-induced liver, kidney, testes, heart, and bone toxicities. Conclusion. GAWE has possible value for antidiabetic oral medication.

Use of front face fluorescence spectroscopy coupled with multivariate data analysis for monitoring biscuits' quality during aging

In this study, the potentiality of front face fluorescence spectroscopy (FFFS) for the evaluation of the quality of biscuits manufactured with butylated hydroxytoluene and pomegranate peel extract during aging was investigated. By using the principal component analysis, vitamin A and tryptophan spectra allowed a clear discrimination between biscuit samples according to the nature of antioxidants, while fluorescent Maillard reaction products spectra showed clear differentiation between samples according to the storage time. Clear differentiation between biscuits according to the used antioxidants and storage time was achieved by using common components and specific weights analysis. Using partial least-squares regression, excellent prediction of water activity (R ² = 0.95), and L* values (R ² = 0.92), and approximate prediction of hardness (R ² = 0.78), b* values (R ² = 0.74), and moisture content (R ² = 0.74) were shown. However, the FFFS failed to predict a* values, primary and secondary oxidation products (R ² < 0.6).

Physical Characteristics, Mineral Content, and Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Punica granatum or Citrus sinensis Peel Extracts and Their Applications to Improve Cake Quality

One-third of all food produced for human use is discarded as waste, resulting in environmental pollution and impaired food security. Fruit peels have bioactive compounds that may be used as antimicrobials and antioxidants, and the use of fruit peels is considered an alternative way to reduce environmental problems and agro-industrial waste. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical, mineral, extraction yield, total phenolic, total flavonoids, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity of several peel fruits, including Citrus sinensis (orange) and Punica granatum (pomegranate). The results revealed that pomegranate peel powder contains the highest amounts of ash, fiber, total carbohydrates, Ca, Fe, Mg, and Cu, while orange peel contains the highest amounts of moisture, protein, crude fat, P, and K. Furthermore, the aqueous and methanolic pomegranate peel extracts yielded higher total phenolic and total flavonoids than the orange peel extract. The identification and quantification of polyphenol compounds belonging to different classes, such as tannins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids in pomegranate peel and flavonoid compounds in orange peel were performed using UPLC-MS/MS. In addition, GC-MS analysis of orange peel essential oil discovered that the predominant compound is D-Limonene (95.7%). The aqueous and methanolic extracts of pomegranate peel were proven to be efficient against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria linked to human infections. Sponge cake substituting wheat flour with 3% pomegranate peel and 10% orange peel powder had the highest total phenolic, flavonoid compounds, and antioxidant activity as compared to the control cake. Our results concluded that pomegranate and orange peel flour can be used in cake preparation and natural food preservers.

Pomegranate Peel as a Source of Bioactive Compounds: A Mini Review on Their Physiological Functions

The production and consumption of pomegranates have always been increasing owing to their taste and nutrition. However, during fruit processing, a large number of by-products are produced, such as peels and seeds, which can lead to environmental pollution problems if not handled properly. The pomegranate peel takes up about 26-30% of the total weight, while it contains abundant bioactive substances. This paper carries out a mini review of the characterization and physiological functions of key bioactive compounds in pomegranate peel, comprehensively assessing their effects on human health. The overview summarizes the main phenolic substances in pomegranate peel, including tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Dietary fiber and other bioactive substances such as alkaloids, minerals, and vitamins are also mentioned. These components act as antioxidants by improving oxidative biomarkers and scavenging or neutralizing reactive oxygen species, further contributing to their extensive functions like anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antibacterial, and cardiovascular protection. Overall, it is envisaged that through the deeper understanding of bioactive compounds in pomegranate peel, the waste sources can be better reused for physiological applications.

Phytochemical Analysis, α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase Inhibitory Activities and Acute Toxicity Studies of Extracts from Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Bark, a Valuable Agro-Industrial By-Product

Punica granatum is a tree of the Punicaceae family which is widespread all over the world with several types of varieties. Its fruit juice is highly prized, whereas the bark, rich in in phytochemicals such as flavonoids, hydrolysable tannins, phenolic acids, and fatty acids, is regarded an agro-industrial waste. It is utilized in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties in the treatment and prevention of a variety of ailments. This study aims to extract and to separate the phytochemical compounds from the bark of P. granatum, to identify them and to study the inhibitory effect of its extracts against antidiabetic activity. First, we carried out successive hot extractions with solvents (chloroform, acetone, methanol, and water) of increasing polarity by the Soxhlet. Then, using both qualitative and quantitative phytochemical investigation, we were able to identify groups of chemicals that were present in all extracts. We identified the majority of the molecular structures of chemicals found in each extract using HPLC-DAD analysis. The inhibition against both intestinal α-glucosidase and pancreatic α-amylase enzymes by P. granatum extracts was used to evaluate their potential antidiabetic effect in vitro. Our results demonstrated the great potential of the acetone extract. Ellagic acid, (−)-catechin, vanillin and vanillic acid were proposed as the most active compounds by the correlation analysis, and their actions were confirmed through the calculation of their IC₅₀ and the determination of their inhibition mechanisms by molecular modelling. To summarize, these results showed that P. granatum bark, a natural agro-industrial by-product, may constitute a promising option for antidiabetic therapeutic therapy.

Chemical, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Properties of the Peel and Male Flower By-Products of Four Varieties of Punica granatum L. Cultivated in the Marche Region for Their Use in Cosmetic Products

We are now seeing an increase in the production of agri-food waste, which is an essential resource for the recovery of bioactive compounds that may be employed as innovative natural ingredients in cosmetics. To date, the approach to cosmetics preservation has seen a significant shift in the search for biological components that give healthier alternatives for customers and help businesses operate in an environmentally friendly manner. To achieve this goal, we studied pomegranate extracts using the peel and, for the first time, extracts from the male flowers of a wide pomegranate variety cultivated in the Marche region, specifically, the Wonderful, Mollar de Elche, Parfianka, and less-studied G1 varieties. We studied the phenol compounds profile, antioxidant capacity, antimicrobial activity, and cell viability of the obtained pomegranate extracts. The identification and quantification of phenol compounds belonging to different classes, such as hydrolysable tannins, hydroxybenzoic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid, dihydroflavonol, gallocatechin, and anthocyanins, were performed using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS. Punicalagin isomers and punicalin resulted in the most abundant polyphenols found in the peel and male flower extracts. Mollar de Elche 2020 peel extract revealed a high concentration of punicalagin A and B (7206.4 mg/kg and 5812.9), while the content of gallic acid revealed high results in the G1 and Parfianka varieties. All extracts were spectrophotometrically analysed to determine their total phenol content (TPC) using the Folin–Ciocalteu method and their antioxidant capacity (AC). In terms of the total phenol obtained by the Folin–Ciocalteu colorimetric method, Mollar de Elche 2020 extracts reported the highest TPC content of 12.341 µmol GAE/g. Results revealed that the Mollar de Elche and Wonderful 2020 peel extracts demonstrated the highest TPC and AC. Furthermore, AC results indicated that the peel extracts displayed higher AC than the male flower extract due to the high punicalagin content detected by UPLC analysis. The antimicrobial activity testing revealed that the Wonderful and G1 2020 peel extracts resulted active against Escherichia coli, while all extracts exhibited promising anticandidal activity. Additionally, the cytocompatibility was evaluated in keratinocytes HaCaT cells by testing concentrations of pomegranate extracts ranging from 0.15 to 5.00 mg/mL. Extracts were non-toxic for the cells in the tested concentration range. The acquired results may help exploit pomegranate agri-food waste products provided by the Marche region’s short supply chain for their use as an antimicrobial and antioxidant booster in the formulation of cosmetic products.

Enhanced Bioactivity of Pomegranate Peel Extract following Controlled Release from CaCO3 Nanocrystals

Pomegranate peel extract is rich of interesting bioactive chemicals, principally phenolic compounds, which have shown antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidative properties. The aim of this work was to improve extract’ bioactivity through the adsorption on calcium carbonate nanocrystals. Nanocrystals revealed as efficient tools for extract adsorption reaching 50% of loading efficiency. Controlled release of the contained metabolites under acidic pH has been found, as it was confirmed by quantitative assay and qualitative study through NMR analysis. Specific functionality of inorganic nanocarriers could be also tuned by biopolymeric coating. The resulting coated nanoformulations showed a great antimicrobial activity against B. cinerea fungus preventing strawberries disease better than a commercial fungicide. Furthermore, nanoformulations demonstrated a good antiproliferative activity in neuroblastoma and breast cancer cells carrying out a higher cytotoxic effect respect to free extract, confirming a crucial role of nanocarriers. Finally, pomegranate peel extract showed a very high radical scavenging ability, equal to ascorbic acid. Antioxidant activity, measured also in intracellular environment, highlighted a protective action of extract-adsorbed nanocrystals twice than free extract, providing a possible application for new nutraceutical formulations.

Profiling Phenolic Composition in Pomegranate Peel From Nine Selected Cultivars Using UHPLC-QTOF-MS and UPLC-QQQ-MS

Pomegranate is widely cultivated across China, and the phenolics in its peel are principal components associated with health benefits. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to a quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometer (UHPLC-QTOF-MS) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (UPLC-QQQ-MS) were used in this study, aiming at profiling the total phenolic composition in pomegranate peel from nine selected cultivars in 7 production areas. Sixty-four phenolic compounds were identified or annotated, and 23 of them were firstly reported in pomegranate peel. Principal component analysis (PCA) plots show differences and similarities of phenolics among nine cultivars. Furthermore, 15 phenolic compounds were quantified with the standards, and punicalagin, ellagic acid, gallocatechin, punicalin, catechin, and corilagin were found to be dominant. Punicalagin weighed the highest content (28.03–104.14 mg/g). This study can provide a deeper and more detailed insight into the phenolic composition in pomegranate peel and facilitate the health-promoting utilization of phenolics.

Therapeutic Potential of Pomegranate in Metabolic Disorders

Metabolic syndrome and associated disorders have become one of the major challenging health problems over the last decades. Considerable attention has been paid to natural products and herbal medicines for the management of metabolic disorders in recent years. Many studies have investigated the therapeutic effects of different parts (arils, peels, seeds, and flowers) of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) for the prevention and treatment of this syndrome. This study aims to provide an updated review on the in vitro and in vivo studies as well as clinical trials investigating the effects of pomegranate and its active compounds on different components of metabolic problems such as hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, as well as obesity over the last two decades. Besides, the key mechanisms by which pomegranate affects these pathogenic conditions are also discussed. The studies show that although pomegranate has promising beneficial effects on diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and obesity in various cellular, animal, and clinical models of studies, there are some conflicting results, particularly for hyperglycemic conditions. The main mechanisms include influencing oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory responses. Overall, pomegranate seems to have positive effects on the pathogenic conditions of metabolic syndrome according to the reviewed studies. Although pomegranate is not suggested as the first line of therapy or monotherapy, it could be only used as an adjunctive therapy. Nevertheless, further large and long-term clinical studies are still required.

Cardiac extracellular matrix modulation in a rat-diabetic model: biochemical and anti-oxidant beneficial effect of pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel extract

CONTEXT

Disorders associated with diabetes and the beneficial effects of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) were widely reported. However effect of diabetes and PPE on extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling needs further investigation.

OBJECTIVES

The focus of this study was to investigate the involvement of diabetes in cardiac ECM and the beneficial effects of PPE.

METHODS

Diabetes was induced by alloxan. PPE group was injected with 100 mg/kg of PPE. The phenolic profile of PPE was analyzed by HPLC. ECM was detected by ELISA. MMP-1, -8, -13 were determined by a colorimetric assay.

RESULTS

Compared to control fibronectin and laminin plasma content was higher respectively by 69% and 42% (p < 0.05) in diabetes. LV content of hydroxyproline and total collagen was higher by 195% (p < 0.01) and 56% (p < 0.05) in the diabetic group compared to control and restored at a similar level to controls in the PPE group. Compared to control, collagenase activity was significantly reduced by 32% (p < 0.05) and 35% (p < 0.05) respectively in ALX and PPF groups. There is no significant difference in collagenase activities in diabetic rats after and before PPE injection.

CONCLUSION

Diabetes is involved in cardiac ECM remodelling which can be improved by PPE. These findings will be useful for more understanding diabetes-induced cardiac disorders.

Foliar spray with rutin improves cadmium remediation efficiency excellently by enhancing antioxidation and phytochelatin detoxification of Amaranthus hypochondriacus

Rutin is a flavonoid with strong antioxidative effects on plant metabolism that facilitates resistance to environmental stress. The effect of foliar rutin on cadmium (Cd) uptake in Amaranthus hypochondriacus (K472) was studied. The results showed that a foliar spray of rutin alleviated Cd toxicity, promoted plant growth, improved Cd transfer to and storage in aerial plant parts and Cd accumulation with positive effects over time. A rutin concentration of 1.5 mg/mL showed the strongest promotion effect: the biomass and Cd content were increased at 13 days by 68.62% and 405.54% compared to 3 days, respectively, whereas a high concentration of rutin (5 mg/mL) inhibited plant growth and hindered Cd absorption. Two stages of Cd detoxification were identified in K472 after appropriate rutin application. First, an antioxidant system including an enzymatic antioxidant (superoxide dismutase [SOD]) and nonenzymatic antioxidants (glutathione [GSH] and flavonoids) was activated to enhance plant stress resistance. Quercetin and phytochelatin (PC) synthesis were then enhanced to perform detoxification synergistically with the antioxidant system to improve stress tolerance and achieve stable Cd detoxification. The results demonstrated that appropriately prolonging the application time of exogenous rutin to K472 is an effective way to improve the Cd remediation efficiency.

Nutritional and phytochemical profile of pomegranate ("Wonderful variety") peel and its effects on hepatic oxidative stress and metabolic alterations

The peel of pomegranate fruit contains antioxidant phytochemicals that may potentiate health benefits but remain under-explored. We evaluated the antioxidant, nutritional and phytochemical profiles of the peel of the "Wonderful" variety pomegranate and its influence on oxidative metabolic alterations in hepatic tissue. The peel contained appreciable amounts of some beneficial trace minerals and both essential and non-essential amino acids. Mostly Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids were found. The peel extracts exhibited in vitro radical scavenging and Fe³⁺ reducing antioxidant activities and dose-dependently prevented oxidative stress-induced lipid peroxidation increase and GSH depletion in both Chang liver cells (IC₅₀ = 18.0 ± 1.46 and 11.2 ± 0.99 µg/mL, respectively) and isolated rat liver (IC₅₀ = 96.7 ± 3.34 and 19.4 ± 3.36 µg/mL, respectively). The antioxidant effects were comparable to that of ascorbic and correlated with their phenolic profile. HPLC analysis further identified antioxidant phenolic acids (gallic acid, syringic acid ferulic acid p-coumaric acid or trans-4-hydroxycinnamic acid, etc.). The peel did not cause notable cytotoxicity in liver and kidney cells, which suggest minimal safety concerns. Metabolomics analysis revealed alterations in fatty acid, amino acids, and nucleic acid metabolisms following the induction of oxidative stress. These alterations were improved in the acetone extract-treated tissues, with concomitant activation of vitamin and selonocompound metabolisms. Data suggest that the fruit peel of "Wonderful" pomegranate may be an underutilized source of functional nutrients and antioxidants phenolic acids for optimum body function and mitigation hepatic oxidative damage and metabolic alterations as well as associated diseases. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Although underutilized, documented evidence have shown that the wastes, like peels from fruits contain more phytochemicals than the edible pulp, making them potential sources of bioactive principles. In this study we exposed the nutritional, phytochemical and oxidative stress-related medicinal benefits of the peel of "Wonderful" pomegranate variety. The peel could ameliorate oxidative hepatic metabolic alterations. The peel of this fruit could be a source of beneficial micro and macro nutrients, as well as bioactive phenolics to improve oxidative health and mitigate oxidative hepatic damage and associated disease states. Medicinally utilizing the fruit's peel could reduce underutilized fruit wastes, increase the value of the fruit and benefit the bioeconomy.

Tropical Fruits and Their Co-Products as Bioactive Compounds and Their Health Effects: A Review

Tropical and subtropical fruits are recognized as a source of a high content of bioactive compounds and health promoting properties due to their nutritional composition. These beneficial health effects are related to the content of several of these bioactive compounds, mainly flavonoids and non-flavonoid phenolics. Many of these compounds are common in different tropical fruits, such as epicatechin in mango, pineapple, and banana, or catechin in pineapple, cocoa or avocado. Many studies of tropical fruits had been carried out, but in this work an examination is made in the current literature of the flavonoids and non-flavonoid phenolics content of some tropical fruits and their coproducts, comparing the content in the same units, as well as examining the role that these compounds play in health benefits.

Onion (Allium cepa L.) peel extracts characterization by conventional and modern methods

The impact of different extraction methods on bioactive compounds (total phenols and flavonoids) recovery from onion wastes recovered from the market was investigated. The results revealed a total polyphenol content from 25.19 ± 3.56 mg gallic acid equivalents/g for enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE) to 212.56 ± 1.18 mg gallic acid equivalents/g for supercritical extraction (SFE). The total flavonoid content registered from 108.36 ± 3.62 mg quercetin equivalents/g for EAE to 334.97 ± 19.41 mg quercetin equivalents/g for conventional solvent extraction (CSE). The antioxidant activity (404.93 ± 1.39 mM Trolox/g) for SFE was the highest compared to all the extraction procedures used. The chromatographic profiles were conducted at five primary compound identification (quercetin 7,4-diglycoside, quercetin 3,4-diglycoside, quercetin 4-glucoside, quercetin, and kaempferol) and GC-MS analysis allowed the identification of 26 compounds, manly identified in EAE. The results also revealed that the SFE method, as a non-invasive technique, recorded the highest concentration of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity, confirmed by chromatographic profiles.

Chitosan Nanoparticles as a Promising Nanomaterial for Encapsulation of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Peel Extract as a Natural Source of Antioxidants

The encapsulation of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) in chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) is an advantageous strategy to protect sensitive constituents of the extract. This study was aimed to develop PPE-loaded CSNPs and characterize their physical, structural morphology, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Spherical NPs were successfully synthesized with a mean diameter of 174–898 nm, a zeta potential (ZP) of +3 – +36 mV, an encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 26–70%, and a loading capacity (LC) of 14–21% depending on their loaded extract concentrations. Based on these results, CSNPs with chitosan:PPE ratio of 1:0.50 (w/w) exhibited good physical stability (ZP = 27 mV), the highest loading (LC = 20%) and desirable encapsulation efficiency (EE = 51%), and thus, selected as optimally loaded NPs. The FTIR analysis of PPE-CSNPs demonstrated no spectral changes indicating no possible chemical interaction between the PPE and CSNPs, which confirms that the PPE was physically entrapped within NPs. Moreover, FTIR spectra of pure PPE showed specific absorption bands (at 3293–3450 cm⁻¹) attributed to the incidence of phenolic compounds, such as tannic acid, ellagic acid and gallic acid. Total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant analysis of selected CSNPs revealed that the encapsulated NPs had significantly lower TPC and antioxidant activity than those of pure PPE, indicating that CSNPs successfully preserved PPE from rapid release during the measurements. Antibacterial tests indicated that pure PPE and PPE-loaded CSNPs effectively retarded the growth of Gram-positive S. aureus with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.27 and 1.1 mg/mL, respectively. Whereas Gram-negative E. coli, due to its protective cell membrane, was not retarded by pure PPE and PPE-CSNPs at the MIC values tested in this study. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy analysis confirmed the incidence of various phytochemicals, including phenolic compounds, fatty acids, and furfurals, with possible antioxidant or antimicrobial properties. Overall, CSNPs can be regarded as suitable nanomaterials for the protection and controlled delivery of natural antioxidants/antimicrobials, such as PPE in food packaging applications.

A unique understanding of traditional medicine of pomegranate, Punica granatum L. and its current research status

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pomegranate, Punica granatum L., has been used in traditional medicine in China and several regions of the world including Ayurveda, Islamic, and Persian for the treatment of atherosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and several types of cancer, as well as for peptic ulcer and oral diseases for hundreds of years. Presently, pomegranate is treated as both a "medicine food homology" herbal medicine and a healthy food supplemental product.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this work is to develop an overview of pomegranate in the context of the status of its traditional medicine theories, the spread along the Silk Road, ethnopharmacological uses, chemical compositions, pharmacological activities, toxicology, and the involved pathways.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on P. granatum L. was acquired from published materials, including monographs on medicinal plants, ancient and modern recorded classical texts; and pharmacopoeias and electronic databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Google Scholar, CNKI, and Wanfang Data).

RESULTS

Pomegranate has been used in many traditional medical systems throughout history. It is widely cultivated in Central Asia and spread throughout China along the Silk Road. Many phytochemicals, such as tannins, organic acids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and volatile oils have been identified from different parts of pomegranate, these compounds have a wide range of activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-oncogenic properties, as well as conferring resistance to cerebrovascular disease. Furthermore, A summary of the four promising pharmacological pathways is provided.

CONCLUSIONS

The traditional uses, chemical compositions, pharmacological activities, and signaling pathways of pomegranate are summarized comprehensively in the review. It can be treated as a guidance for the future clinical and basic research. The information provided in this review will be very useful for further studies to develop novel therapeutic directions for application of pomegranate.

The effects of pomegranate peel extract on the gene expressions of antioxidant enzymes in a rat model of alloxan-induced diabetes

This study was conducted to evaluate the anti-diabetic and antioxidant effects of hydroalcoholic pomegranate peel extract (APE) in alloxan-induced diabetes rat models. We divided 60 rats into the following six equal groups (n = 10): Healthy control; diabetic control (100 mg/kg alloxan); sham + glibenclamide (10 mg/kg); diabetic + glibenclamide (10 mg/kg); sham + APE (200 mg/kg) and diabetic + APE (200 mg/kg). After 8 weeks, kidneys were taken out for biochemical and molecular studies. Following APE treatment, biochemical parameters including malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) significantly induced in the treated group as compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Also, gene expression of GPx (3-fold), CAT (2.6-fold), and SOD (1.5-fold) were increased as compared to controls (p < 0.05). Overall, our results indicated that pomegranate can be used as an antioxidant agent to reduce complications from diseases associated with oxidative stress.

Lipolytic Postbiotic from Lactobacillus paracasei Manages Metabolic Syndrome in Albino Wistar Rats

The current study investigates the capacity of a lipolytic Lactobacillus paracasei postbiotic as a possible regulator for lipid metabolism by targeting metabolic syndrome as a possibly safer anti-obesity and Anti-dyslipidemia agent replacing atorvastatin (ATOR) and other drugs with proven or suspected health hazards. The high DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS [2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethyl benzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid)] scavenging activity and high activities of antioxidant enzyme such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) of the Lactobacillus paracasei postbiotic (cell-free extract), coupled with considerable lipolytic activity, may support its action against metabolic syndrome. Lactobacillus paracasei isolate was obtained from an Egyptian cheese sample, identified and used for preparing the postbiotic. The postbiotic was characterized and administered to high-fat diet (HFD) albino rats (100 and 200 mg kg^-1) for nine weeks, as compared to atorvastatin (ATOR; 10 mg kg^-1). The postbiotic could correct the disruption in lipid metabolism and antioxidant enzymes in HFD rats more effectively than ATOR. The two levels of the postbiotic (100 and 200 mg kg^-1) reduced total serum lipids by 29% and 34% and serum triglyceride by 32-45% of the positive control level, compared to only 25% and 35% in ATOR's case, respectively. Both ATOR and the postbiotic (200 mg kg^-1) equally decreased total serum cholesterol by about 40% and 39%, while equally raising HDL levels by 28% and 30% of the positive control. The postbiotic counteracted HFD-induced body weight increases more effectively than ATOR without affecting liver and kidney functions or liver histopathology, at the optimal dose of each. The postbiotic is a safer substitute for ATOR in treating metabolic syndrome.

Ellagic Acid as a Tool to Limit the Diabetes Burden: Updated Evidence

Oxidative stress contributes not only to the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D) but also to diabetic vascular complications. It follows that antioxidants might contribute to limiting the diabetes burden. In this review we focus on ellagic acid (EA), a compound that can be obtained upon intestinal hydrolysis of dietary ellagitannins, a family of polyphenols naturally found in several fruits and seeds. There is increasing research on cardiometabolic effects of ellagitannins, EA, and urolithins (EA metabolites). We updated research conducted on these compounds and (I) glucose metabolism; (II) inflammation, oxidation, and glycation; and (III) diabetic complications. We included studies testing EA in isolation, extracts or preparations enriched in EA, or EA-rich foods (mostly pomegranate juice). Animal research on the topic, entirely conducted in murine models, mostly reported glucose-lowering, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-glycation effects, along with prevention of micro- and macrovascular diabetic complications. Clinical research is incipient and mostly involved non-randomized and low-powered studies, which confirmed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of EA-rich foods, but without conclusive results on glucose control. Overall, EA-related compounds might be potential agents to limit the diabetes burden, but well-designed human randomized controlled trials are needed to fill the existing gap between experimental and clinical research.

Antioxidant Molecules from Plant Waste: Extraction Techniques and Biological Properties

The fruit, vegetable, legume, and cereal industries generate many wastes, representing an environmental pollution problem. However, these wastes are a rich source of antioxidant molecules such as terpenes, phenolic compounds, phytosterols, and bioactive peptides with potential applications mainly in the food and pharmaceutical industries, and they exhibit multiple biological properties including antidiabetic, anti-obesity, antihypertensive, anticancer, and antibacterial properties. The aforementioned has increased studies on the recovery of antioxidant compounds using green technologies to value plant waste, since they represent more efficient and sustainable processes. In this review, the main antioxidant molecules from plants are briefly described and the advantages and disadvantages of the use of conventional and green extraction technologies used for the recovery and optimization of the yield of antioxidant naturals are detailed; finally, recent studies on biological properties of antioxidant molecules extracted from plant waste are presented here.

Processing Factors Affecting the Phytochemical and Nutritional Properties of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Peel Waste: A Review

Pomegranate peel has substantial amounts of phenolic compounds, such as hydrolysable tannins (punicalin, punicalagin, ellagic acid, and gallic acid), flavonoids (anthocyanins and catechins), and nutrients, which are responsible for its biological activity. However, during processing, the level of peel compounds can be significantly altered depending on the peel processing technique used, for example, ranging from 38.6 to 50.3 mg/g for punicalagins. This review focuses on the influence of postharvest processing factors on the pharmacological, phytochemical, and nutritional properties of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peel. Various peel drying strategies (sun drying, microwave drying, vacuum drying, and oven drying) and different extraction protocols (solvent, super-critical fluid, ultrasound-assisted, microwave-assisted, and pressurized liquid extractions) that are used to recover phytochemical compounds of the pomegranate peel are described. A total phenolic content of 40.8 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g DM was recorded when sun drying was used, but the recovery of the total phenolic content was higher at 264.3 mg TAE/g when pressurised liquid extraction was performed. However, pressurised liquid extraction is costly due to the high initial investment costs and the limited possibility of carrying out selective extractions of organic compounds from complex peel samples. The effects of these methods on the phytochemical profiles of pomegranate peel extracts are also influenced by the cultivar and conditions used, making it difficult to determine best practice. For example, oven drying at 60 °C resulted in higher levels of punicalin of 888.04 mg CE/kg DM compared to those obtained 40 °C of 768.11 mg CE/kg DM for the Wonderful cultivar. Processes that are easy to set up, cost-effective, and do not compromise the quality and safety aspects of the peel are, thus, more desirable. From the literature survey, we identified a lack of studies testing pretreatment protocols that may result in a lower loss of the valuable biological compounds of pomegranate peels to allow for full exploitation of their health-promoting properties in potentially new value-added products.

Characterization of pomegranate peel extracts obtained using different solvents and their effects on cell cycle and apoptosis in leukemia cells

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) has been used in traditional herbal medicine by several cultures as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihyperglycemic, and for treatment and prevention of cancer and other diseases. Different parts of the fruit, extraction methods, and solvents can define the chemical profile of the obtained extracts and their biological activities. This study aimed to characterize the chemical profile of peel extracts collected using different extraction solvents and their biological effects on the cell cycle and apoptosis of THP-1 leukemic cells. Aqueous extract presented the highest content of punicalagins (α pun = 562.26 ± 47.14 mg/L and β pun = 1,251.13 ± 22.21 mg/L) and the lowest content of ellagic acid (66.38 ± 0.21 mg/L), and it promoted a significant impairment of the cell cycle S phase. In fact, punicalagin-enriched fraction, but not an ellagic acid-enriched fraction, caused an S phase cell cycle arrest. All extracts increased the number of apoptotic cells. Punicalagin-enriched fraction increased the percentage of cells with fragmented DNA, which was intensified by ellagic acid combination. The treatment combining punicalagin and ellagic acid fractions increased the apoptotic cleaved PARP1 protein and reduced the activation of the growth-related mTOR pathway. Thus, these results evidence that solvent choice is critical for the phenolic compounds profile of pomegranate peel extracts and their biological activities.

Pomegranate Peel as Suitable Source of High-Added Value Bioactives: Tailored Functionalized Meat Products

In the last few years, the consumer's concern with the relationship between health and diet has led to the search of foods with functional properties beyond the nutritional. In this framework, the consumption of pomegranate has increased due to their sensorial attributes and remarkable amounts of bioactive compounds, which generate, at the same time, huge amounts of by-products. A search in the Scopus database for the last 10 years has revealed the rising interest in pomegranate peel (PP), the main residue from this fruit. The meat industry is a food sector that has had to search for new alternatives to substitute the use of synthetic preservatives by new natural additives, to extend the self-life and keep the quality attributes of their processed products. This review sets out the main bioactivities of PP extracts, and their incorporation in meat products is elaborated. PP is a good source of bioactive compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids and hydrolyzable tannins, which have beneficial health effects. It can be concluded that the reformulation of meat products with PP extracts is a suitable strategy for enhancing their technological characteristics, in addition to conferring functional properties that make them healthier and potentially more acceptable for the consumer.

Traditional Yellow Dyes Used in the 21st Century in Central Iran: The Knowledge of Master Dyers Revealed by HPLC-DAD and UHPLC-HRMS/MS

This work provides new knowledge on natural yellows used in Iran. Seven biological sources were selected based on interviews with dye masters in Isfahan workshops (Iran). Delphinium semibarbatum, Eremostachys laevigata, Prangos ferulacea, Morus alba, Pistacia vera, Punica granatum, and Vitis vinifera are currently used in these workshops. Aiming to study the dye composition of wool samples dyed with the extracts of the selected biological sources, and the changes induced by the dyeing procedures in the original chemical composition of the plant extract, raw materials and dyed wool (by us and in the workshops) were analyzed by HPLC–DAD and UHPLC–HRMS/MS. In solutions extracted from the textiles, the main yellows for E. laevigata are luteolin-O-glycosides. In the other plant sources, the main chromophores are based on 3-O-glycosides of kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin. In pistachio hulls, myricitin derivatives were detected and we propose their use as markers. Generally, the solutions extracted from the wool displayed a higher amount of more polar compounds, but also a higher amount of aglycones. Importantly, the chromatographic profiles of the samples we prepared compared well with 17th c. yellows in Persian carpets, and therefore can be considered highly characterized references for the study of Persian yellows.