Functional food and nutra-pharmaceutical perspectives of date (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruit

Unveiling the profound influence of sucralose on metabolism and its role in shaping obesity trends

Artificial sweeteners, prominently exemplified by sucralose, have become pervasive in contemporary diets, prompting intriguing questions about their impact on metabolism and their potential role in the unfolding trends of obesity. Covering topics from its discovery to analytical methods for detection and determination in food samples, the manuscript scrutinizes the metabolic effects of sucralose. Notably, the association between sucralose intake and obesity is examined, challenging the conventional belief of its role in weight management. The document comprehensively examines in vivo studies, revealing sucralose's implications on insulin resistance, gut microbiota, and metabolic syndrome, providing a nuanced comprehension of its impact on human health. Additionally, it explores sucralose's effects on glucose and lipid metabolism, blood pressure, and cardiovascular health, underscoring its possible involvement in malignancy development. The review concludes with a call for increased public awareness, education, and updated dietary guidelines to help individuals make informed choices about sweetener consumption. The future perspectives section highlights the need for longitudinal studies, exploring alternative sweeteners, and refining acceptable daily intake limits to ensure public health recommendations align with evolving regulatory guidelines. Overall, the manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of sucralose's multifaceted impact on health, urging further research and a balanced perspective on sweetener consumption.

A Sustainable Extraction Approach of Phytochemicals from Date (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Fruit Cultivars Using Ultrasound-Assisted Deep Eutectic Solvent: A Comprehensive Study on Bioactivity and Phenolic Variability

The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) on the extraction of phytochemicals from eight Algerian date fruit cultivars (Phoenix dactylifera L.). In this study, lactic acid/sucrose-based NADESs were used as an alternative to conventional chemical solvents using the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method. The obtained extracts were assessed for the determination of bioactive compound contents, phenolic composition, antioxidant activity, and enzyme inhibitory potential. The results showed a considerable variation in phytochemical compositions and related activities between cultivars, where the greatest contents of total phenolics (1288.7 mg GAE/100 g), total flavonoids (53.8 mg QE/100 g), proanthocyanidins (179.5 mg CE/g), and total triterpenoids (12.88 mg OAE/100 g) were detected in the fruits of the Ourous cultivar. The same cultivar displayed the highest antioxidant capacity against DPPH• free radical (595 mg AAE/100 g), ABTS•+ cation radical (839 mg TE/100 g), and ferric reducing antioxidant potential (704 mg AAE/100 g). All extracts manifested moderate antioxidant activities tested by phosphomolybdenum, NO•, and linoleic acid lipid peroxidation assays. These extracts also exhibited interesting levels of in vitro enzyme inhibition; the Ourous cultivar gave the best inhibitory activity against α-amylase and acetylcholinesterase with 45 and 37%, respectively. HPLC-DAD-MS detected a total of five compounds, with phenolic acids and flavonoids being the main phenolics identified in the extract. The phenolic composition exhibited significant variability among cultivars. Notably, the highest amounts were revealed in the Tazizaout cultivar, with the predominance of gallic acid. The results confirmed that the combination of UAE and NADESs provides a novel and important alternative to chemical solvents for sustainable and environmentally friendly extraction and can represent a good alternative in food and pharmaceutical industry applications.

Date seeds (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) valorization: chemical composition of lipid fraction

Abstract This research was aimed to study the lipid fraction of date seeds. Seventeen seeds of date palm varieties and clones were evaluated and assessed for their chemical components and for the properties of the date pits oil. Gas liquid chromatography showed that the main unsaturated fatty acid was oleic acid (46.00 - 50.87%), while the main saturated fatty acid was lauric acid (10.11 - 19.03%) for the cultivars Mentouj Tissgharine (MTN) and Bheir Ingli (KBN) respectively; other fatty acids were also identified. The physicochemical characterization showed an acid value ranging from 0.068 to 1.188%, a specific extinction value equal to (K232: 1.350–2.225; K270: 0.318– 0.521), a peroxide value in the interval (1.059–5.618 meq O2/kg) and an iodine value (41.861–59.980 g Iodine/100 g). The pheophytin content of date seed oils was found within the range from 21.855 to 75.685%. The chemical analysis showed that date seed oil can be useful in cosmetic and food products processing.

Approaches to Enhance Sugar Content in Foods: Is the Date Palm Fruit a Natural Alternative to Sweeteners?

The current levels of added sugars in processed foods impact dental health and contribute to a range of chronic non-communicable diseases, such as overweight, obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. This review presents sugars and sweeteners used in food processing, the current possibility to replace added sugars, and highlights the benefits of using dates as a new natural, nutritious and healthy alternative to synthetic and non-nutritive sweeteners. In the context of environmental sustainability, palm groves afford a propitious habitat for a diverse array of animal species and assume a pivotal social role by contributing to the provisioning of sustenance and livelihoods for local communities. The available literature shows the date as an alternative to added sugars due to its composition in macro and micronutrients, especially in bioactive components (fiber, polyphenols and minerals). Therefore, dates are presented as a health promoter and a preventative for certain diseases with the consequent added value. The use of damaged or unmarketable dates, due to its limited shelf life, can reduce losses and improve the sustainability of date palm cultivation. This review shows the potential use dates, date by-products and second quality dates as sugar substitutes in the production of sweet and healthier foods, in line with broader sustainability objectives and circular economy principles.

Phytochemical-derived tumor-associated macrophage remodeling strategy using Phoenix dactylifera L. boosted photodynamic therapy in melanoma via H19/iNOS/PD-L1 axis

BACKGROUND

The tumor microenvironment (TME) represents a barrier to PDT efficacy among melanoma patients. The aim of this study is to employ a novel muti-tactic TME-remodeling strategy via repolarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), the main TME immune cells in melanoma, from the pro-tumor M2 into the antitumor M1 phenotype using Phoenix dactylifera L. (date palm) in combination with PDT.

METHODS

Screening of different date cultivars was employed to choose extracts of selective toxicity to melanoma and TAMs, not normal macrophages. Potential extracts were then fractionated and characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Finally, the efficacy and the potential molecular mechanism of the co-treatment were portrayed via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis.

RESULTS

Initial screening resulted in the selection of the two Phoenix dactylifera L. cultivars Safawi and Sukkari methanolic extracts. Sukkari showed superior capacity to revert TAM phenotype into M1 as well as more prominent upregulation of M1 markers and repression of melanoma immunosuppressive markers relative to positive control (resiquimod). Molecularly, it was shown that PDT of melanoma cells in the presence of the secretome of repolarized TAMs surpassed the monotherapy via the modulation of the H19/iNOS/PD-L1immune-regulatory axis.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the potential utilization of nutraceuticals in combination with PDT in the treatment of melanoma to provide a dual activity through alleviating the immune suppressive TME and potentiating the anti-tumor responses.

Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation to Elucidate the Molecular Targets and Potential Mechanism of Phoenix dactylifera (Ajwa Dates) against Candidiasis

Candidiasis, caused by opportunistic fungal pathogens of the Candida genus, poses a significant threat to immunocompromised individuals. Natural compounds derived from medicinal plants have gained attention as potential sources of anti-fungal agents. Ajwa dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) have been recognized for their diverse phytochemical composition and therapeutic potential. In this study, we employed a multi-faceted approach to explore the anti-candidiasis potential of Ajwa dates' phytochemicals. Utilizing network pharmacology, we constructed an interaction network to elucidate the intricate relationships between Ajwa dates phytoconstituents and the Candida-associated molecular targets of humans. Our analysis revealed key nodes in the network (STAT3, IL-2, PTPRC, STAT1, CASP1, ALB, TP53, TLR4, TNF and PPARG), suggesting the potential modulation of several crucial processes (the regulation of the response to a cytokine stimulus, regulation of the inflammatory response, positive regulation of cytokine production, cellular response to external stimulus, etc.) and fungal pathways (Th17 cell differentiation, the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, the C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway and necroptosis). To validate these findings, molecular docking studies were conducted, revealing the binding affinities of the phytochemicals towards selected Candida protein targets of humans (ALB-rutin (-9.7 kJ/mol), STAT1-rutin (-9.2 kJ/mol), STAT3-isoquercetin (-8.7 kJ/mol), IL2-β-carotene (-8.5 kJ/mol), CASP1-β-carotene (-8.2 kJ/mol), TP53-isoquercetin (-8.8 kJ/mol), PPARG-luteolin (-8.3 kJ/mol), TNF-βcarotene (-7.7 kJ/mol), TLR4-rutin (-7.4 kJ/mol) and PTPRC-rutin (-7.0 kJ/mol)). Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations of rutin-ALB and rutin-STAT1 complex were performed to gain insights into the stability and dynamics of the identified ligand-target complexes over time. Overall, the results not only contribute to the understanding of the molecular interactions underlying the anti-fungal potential of specific phytochemicals of Ajwa dates in humans but also provide a rational basis for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against candidiasis in humans. This study underscores the significance of network pharmacology, molecular docking and dynamics simulations in accelerating the discovery of natural products as effective anti-fungal agents. However, further experimental validation of the identified compounds is warranted to translate these findings into practical therapeutic applications.

Food or medicine? A European regulatory perspective on nutritional therapy products to treat inborn errors of metabolism

Dietary or nutritional management strategies are the cornerstone of treatment for many inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs). Though a vital part of standard of care, the products prescribed for this are often not formally registered as medication. Instead, they are regulated as food or as food supplements, impacting the level of oversight as well as reimbursed policies. This scoping literature review explores the European regulatory framework relevant to these products and its implications for current clinical practice. Searches of electronic databases (PubMed, InfoCuria) were carried out, supplemented by articles identified by experts, from reference lists, relevant guidelines and case-law by the European Court of Justice. In the European Union (EU), nutritional therapy products are regulated as food supplements, food for special medical purposes (FSMPs) or medication. The requirements and level of oversight increase for each of these categories. Relying on lesser-regulated food products to treat IEMs raises concerns regarding product quality, safety, reimbursement and patient access. In order to ascertain whether a nutritional therapy product functions as medication and thus could be classified as such, we developed a flowchart to assess treatment characteristics (benefit, pharmacological attributes, and safety) with a case-based approach. Evaluating nutritional therapy products might reveal a justifiable need for a pharmaceutical product. A flowchart can facilitate systematically distinguishing products that function medication-like in the management of IEMs. Subsequently, finding and implementing appropriate solutions for these products might help improve the quality, safety and accessibility including reimbursement of treatment for IEMs.

Effect of date seed (Phoenix dactylifera) supplementation as functional food on cardiometabolic risk factors, metabolic endotoxaemia and mental health in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a blinded randomised controlled trial protocol

INTRODUCTION

Recently, the improvement of chronic hyperglycaemia-related damage of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through functional food consumption has attracted the attention of many clinicians. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of date seed powder (DSP) as a functional food (prebiotic) on the cardiometabolic risk factors, oxidative stress, anti-/inflammatory biomarkers, metabolic endotoxaemia (gut microbiota), adipokines, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis biomarkers, immune system, anthropometric indices and mental health in patients with T2DM.

METHODS

This study protocol will be conducted as randomised, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial with the inclusion of 48 patients with T2DM. The participants will be randomly assigned into two equal groups of intervention (n=24) and placebo (n=24) and receive 5 g/day of DSP or placebo for 8 weeks, respectively. At baseline and post-intervention, fasting blood samples will be collected to assess the serum levels of lipid profile, glycaemic indices, antioxidant and oxidative stress, anti-/inflammatory biomarkers, lipopolysaccharide, 8-hydroxy-guanine, adipokines, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis biomarkers, immune system and mental health. Data will be analysed using the SPSS software (V.16.0). To compare the quantitative variables, paired and unpaired Student's t-tests and covariance analyses will be used.

DISCUSSION

In this study, the potential effects of DSP on patients with T2DM will be evaluated for the first time. It is hoped that the results would increase the body of scientific knowledge about DSP supplementation on the cardiometabolic risk factors, oxidative stress, anti-/inflammatory biomarkers, metabolic endotoxaemia, adipokines, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis biomarkers, immune system, anthropometric indices and mental health in patients with T2DM.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol was approved by the Ethical Committee of the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran (code: IR.TBZMED.REC.1400.752).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (www.irct.ir/IRCT20150205020965N10).

Effects of Pomegranate Peel Extract and/or Lactic Acid as Natural Preservatives on Physicochemical, Microbiological Properties, Antioxidant Activity, and Storage Stability of Khalal Barhi Date Fruits

The use of natural preservatives in the storage of fresh fruits is a promising approach to healthier and more sustainable food processing. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) and lactic acid (LA) as natural preservatives on the shelf life of Khalal Barhi date fruits. Physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, color parameters, texture profile, sensory characteristics, and microbiological quality of date fruits were evaluated during six weeks of cold storage (4 ± 1 °C). The bioactive compounds in PPE were determined by HPLC analysis, which showed that PPE is a rich source of bioactive compounds, particularly phenolics and flavonoids. The results exhibited decreased moisture content (from 68.36–68.43 to 62.13–63.11%) and an increased soluble solids content (from 27.16–27.24 to 31.45–33.91%) in all samples with prolonged storage. Likewise, a slight decrease in the pH (from 6.00–6.28 to 4.89–5.29) with an increase in acidity (from 0.12–0.14 to 0.23–0.27%) during storage was observed. Generally, treated samples showed lower changes in moisture content, soluble solids content, pH, and acidity than the control. A decrease in total phenolic content (TPC) (from 8.22–12.36 to 3.19–5.17 mg GAE/g) and antioxidant activity (from 44.11–68.26 to 23.84–38.52%) of all samples was observed with progressed storage, meanwhile, the treatment with PPE significantly (p < 0.05) increased TPC with a concomitant increase in antioxidant activity and maintained higher values of both throughout storage. The results exhibited a decrease in L* (from 54.87–55.92 to 41.68–45.68) and b* (from 36.25–37.09 to 23.59–25.42) values of all samples, while the a* value of all samples increased (from 1.29–1.40 to 2.22–2.43) with storage. Dipping treatment in PPE solution improved the color, exhibited the lowest change in color parameters, and maintained better texture properties during storage. Similarly, sensory properties decreased (from 8.21–8.66 to 6.71–7.21) during storage with insignificant (p > 0.05) differences among samples. Dipping treatments inhibited the growth of yeasts and molds over time, with the lowest microbial count recorded in the PPE-treated samples. It can be concluded that PPE was found to have protective effects on Khalal Barhi date fruit quality by controlling post-harvest changes and lowering the microbial load.

Phytochemical analysis and nephroprotective potential of Ajwa date in doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity rats: Biochemical and molecular docking approaches

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the likely defensive impact of Ajwa date aqueous extract (AJDAE) in alleviating the nephrotoxicity generated by doxorubicin (DOX) injection in rats. Sixty male Wister albino rats were randomly and equally separated into six groups (n = 10), and they were treated as follows: untreated control group, extract groups administered with 0.75 and 1.5 mg kg bw of AJDAE, toxicant control group administered with DOX, and prophylactic groups were treated with 0.75 and 1.5 mg/kg of AJDAE and 15 mg/kg DOX. Biochemical parameters, antioxidant enzymes, renal functions, DNA integrity, and histopathology were studied to evaluate the nephroprotective activity of AJDAE. Furthermore, bioactive compounds were utilized for in silico molecular docking. AJDAE treatment resulted in significant improvements in the amended renal biomarkers (urea, creatinine, calcium, phosphorous, and uric acid), antioxidative markers, and MDA. Noticeable histopathological improvements supported this result. Results of in silico studies revealed that d-Mannitol, 6TMS derivative, palmitic acid, and TMS derivative had a higher docking score with human soluble epoxide hydrolase (-10.9 kcal/mol) and NF-κB-DNA (-7 kcal/mol). The present findings indicated that AJDAE could decrease ROS generation and lipid peroxidation (LPO) and repair the DOX injection-related DNA damage.

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.

Effects of Phoenix dactylifera against Streptozotocin-Aluminium Chloride Induced Alzheimer's Rats and Their In Silico Study

Phoenix dactylifera is known for medicinal importance due to its antioxidant, antidiabetic, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study is aimed at evaluating the effect of P. dactylifera seeds to cure Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD was induced in the rats with streptozotocin + aluminium chloride followed by treatment of methanolic extract of P. dactylifera seeds. The blood glucose levels were determined at regular intervals, which showed a prominent decrease in the extracts treated group. Behavior tests, including the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) test and Morris Water Maze (MWM) test, were used to evaluate memory patterns in rats. The results indicated that extract-treated rats significantly improved memory behavior compared to the diseased group. After dissection, the serum electrolytes, antioxidant enzymes, and choline esterase enzymes were measured in different organs. The serum parameters creatinine, urea, and bilirubin increased after extract treatment. Similarly, the level of antioxidant enzymes like peroxidases (POD), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) in the extract-treated group showed improved results that were close to the normal control group. The enzyme (lipase, insulin, amylase, and acetylcholine) levels were found enhanced in extract groups as compared to diseased rats. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the level of dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitters, which were increased significantly for P. dactylifera seeds with values of 0.18 μg/mg tissue and 0.56 μg/mg tissue, respectively. Overall, results showed that P. dactylifera seeds proved to be quite efficient in improving the memory and behavior of treated rats. The antioxidants and enzymes were also increased; therefore, it may be a potential candidate for treating AD.

Biochemical Composition and Biological Activities of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Seeds: A Review

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is an essential agricultural crop in most Middle Eastern countries, and its fruit, known as dates, is consumed by millions of people. Date seeds, a by-product of the date fruit processing industry, are a waste product used as food for domestic farm animals. Date seeds contain abundant sources of carbohydrates, oil, dietary fiber, and protein; they also contain bioactive phenolic compounds that may possess potential biological properties. In addition, its rich chemical composition makes date seeds suitable for use in food product formulation, cosmetics, and medicinal supplements. This review aims to provide a discourse on the nutritional value of date seeds. The latest data on the cytotoxicity of date seed compounds against cancer cell lines, its ability to combat diabetes, antioxidant potential, antimicrobial effect, and anti-inflammatory activity will be provided, considering its potential to be a nutritional therapeutic agent for chronic diseases. Application of date seeds in the form of powder and oil will also be discussed.

Algerian date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruit cultivars: HPLC fingerprinting and antibacterial activity

The abusive use of antibiotics causes the destruction of intestinal flora and the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Date palm is used in traditional medicine in the Saharan regions due to its biological properties. The study aimed to identify the phytochemical composition and assess the antibacterial activity of the methanolic extracts of three date cultivars from Algeria. Their total phenolic, flavonoid, and flavonol contents were measured spectrophotometrically. The phytochemical screening was conducted by HPLC fingerprinting using twenty-three pure phenolic compounds as standards. The antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacterial species was assessed using the disk diffusion method. The colorimetric methods showed that the total phenolic, flavonoid, and flavonol contents ranged from 2.13 ± 0.09 to 2.67 ± 0.02 mg GAE/100 g DW, 1.33 ± 0.21 to 1.55 ± 0.13 mg CEQ/100 g DW, and 0.41 ± 0.23 to 0.47 ± 0.05 mg REQ/100 g DW, respectively. HPLC fingerprinting showed that the extracts of date cultivars served as an excellent source of bioactive compounds (gallic acid, tannic acid, ferulic acid, vanillin, caffeine, quercetin, luteolin, rutin, aspegenin, isorhamnetin, and hesperidin). They also exhibited an antibacterial potential with an inhibition zone diameter ranging from 8.40 to 12.50 mm. The results clearly demonstrate the antibacterial potency of date palm fruits, which could be attributed to their considerable content of phenolic compounds such as gallic acid, rutin, quercetin, and luteolin.

Replacement of refined sugar by natural sweeteners: focus on potential health benefits

Refined sugar is a processed product containing 99% sucrose, which is obtained from sugarcane (70%) or sugar beet (30%). In modern societies, sugar continues to play a significant role in the diet, recognised not only for its flavour and special sweetening properties but also for its role in food preservation. On the other hand, a high consumption of refined sugar is associated with non-communicable diseases and many health issues such as a high risk of dental caries, overweight and neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Alternatives like unrefined sugars have generated a lot of interest as a healthy substitute due to their nutraceutical properties. This paper is aimed to review the beneficial effects of sugar derived from natural sources and highlight health problems that could be caused by refined processed sugar. Refined sugar is frequently used in variety of items including processed foods, soft drinks or ice creams although it is considered unhealthy due to its high salt and sugar content as well as added fats and artificial coloring. Natural sugars are preferred because they have a high nutritional value and a high concentration of healthy compounds, which offset the negative effects of refined sugar. Therefore, removing refined sugar or at least reducing its consumption should be promoted as a healthier option in food choices.

Date Fruits as Raw Material for Vinegar and Non-Alcoholic Fermented Beverages

Currently, foods and beverages with healthy and functional properties, especially those that claim to prevent chronic diseases, are receiving more and more interest. As a result, numerous foods and beverages have been launched onto the market. Among the products with enhanced properties, vinegar and fermented beverages have a high potential for growth. Date palm fruits are a versatile raw material rich in sugars, dietary fibers, minerals, vitamins, and phenolic compounds; thus, they are widely used for food production, including date juice, jelly, butter, and fermented beverages, such as wine and vinegar. Furthermore, their composition makes them suitable for the formulation of functional foods and beverages. Microbial transformations of date juice include alcoholic fermentation for producing wine as an end-product, or as a substrate for acetic fermentation. Lactic fermentation is also documented for transforming date juice and syrup. However, in terms of acetic acid bacteria, little evidence is available on the exploitation of date juice by acetic and gluconic fermentation for producing beverages. This review provides an overview of date fruit’s composition, the related health benefits for human health, vinegar and date-based fermented non-alcoholic beverages obtained by acetic acid bacteria fermentation.

Metabolic syndrome; Definition, Pathogenesis, Elements, and the Effects of medicinal plants on it's elements

Introduction

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic risk factors that include central obesity, hypertension, insulin resistance, and atherogenic dyslipidemia and is strongly associated with a greater risk for developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using the words metabolic syndrome, definition and pathogenesis in Scopus, and PubMed. The search also extended to cover medicinal plants and their role as a potential treatment of the metabolic syndrome. The search based on studies published in the English language from 1st of January 2000 to 30th of May 2021. The abstracts and the articles were then screened. Articles were scanned and read; further relevant references in the reference lists are also included.

Results

Both lifestyle factors and genetic factors are involved in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome. Recently, MetS have gained significant attention due to the high prevalence of obesity worldwide. Diagnosis of patients with MetS is important to improve the outcomes of the disease by employing lifestyle and risk factors modifications. Currently, there is a rising interest in medicinal plants and their extracts because the medicinal plants have minimal side effects. Here we review the history, definitions, pathogenesis, management of metabolic syndrome and summarize the beneficial effects of some medicinal plants and their extracts on MetS.

Conclusion

Further research and clinical studies are needed to establish whether medicinal plants can be safely given as potential therapy for metabolic syndrome and whether this can be beneficial in low resources setting countries.

New valorization approach of Algerian dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) by ultrasound pectin extraction: Physicochemical, techno-functional, antioxidant and antidiabetic properties

To exploit the great fortune of date fruits, the current study aimed to valorize an Algerian common variety by extracting pectins. Response surface methodology (RSM) was applied as process optimization tool to achieve the highest yield using ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) as compared to conventional acid extraction (CAE). The experimental yield value (6.7%) was well matched with the predicted one (6.6%) at the optimum conditions (60 °C, 90 min, pH 1.5), confirming the validity of the model. The evaluation of the monomeric composition showed higher content of galacturonic acid and lower of neutral sugars in UAE pectin, as compared to CAE pectin. Conventional treatments decreased the molecular weight (Mw) of the extracted pectins (539 kDa) in a higher extent than ultrasound treatment (800 kDa). Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectral analysis showed that both samples were low-methoxyl pectins. CAE gave rise to pectins with slightly upper technological samples in terms of water and oil holding capacity (5.2 and 3.8 g/g, respectively), and emulsifying activity (38.5 m²/g). Moreover, date pectins obtained by UAE presented enhanced antioxidant activity (24.3 and 61.0 mg/g DW for DPPH and FRAP assays, respectively), and in vitro antidiabetic properties, showing higher glucose adsorption capacity (4 mmol g^-1 at 200 min), as well as α-amylase inhibition (73.7%) and potential capacity to decrease glucose diffusion (1.4 mmol mM g^-1 at 150 min), which could improve the ability to retard starch digestion (0.1 mmol mM g-1 at 150 min), providing potential health-promoting properties.

Development of energy-rich protein bars and in vitro determination of angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory antihypertensive activities

Three energy-rich protein (ERP) bars were prepared to meet the daily recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for the protein of Pakistani athletes. The bars were developed using dates, cheddar cheese (CC), whey protein isolate (WPI), roasted chickpea flour, and rice flour in different proportions. Bar #1 contained 64 g dates, 16 g dried apricots, 12 g WPI, and 8 g ripened CC. Bar #2 contained the same proportion of these ingredients with an addition of 12.5 g roasted chickpea flour, while bar #3 contained 6.25 g roasted rice and 6.25 g roasted chickpea flour. All the ingredients were homogeneously mixed into paste to form bars weighing 100-110 g per serving size. These bars were studied for the compositional analysis (moisture, protein, and lipid content), protein characterization through sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and in vitro determination of the angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE-I) antihypertensive activity. Moisture and lipid content in bars were 22% and 0.057%-0.313%, respectively, while protein, fiber, and ash contents varied from 22.3% to 23.6%, 6.66 to 5.81, and 2.12% to 2.44%, respectively. The minimum energy content was recorded (272.70 Kcal/100 g) in bar #1 while bar #3 showed the highest energy content 274.65 Kcal/110 g with the addition of (5%) roasted chickpea and rice flour, respectively. Electrophoresis analysis of proteins in bar # 1 (cheese +WPI) showed the four bands at 62, 24, 20, and 12 kDa. Bar #2 (10% roasted chickpea flour) showed some additional bands at 40, 36, 34, and 28 kDa while relatively lower antihypertensive activity than bars #1 and 3. The study revealed that adding 10% roasted chickpea flour (bar #2) increased the protein content and diversity in proteins. It provided 40% proteins to athletes and could be helpful to meet their R.D.A. by consuming two bars/day.

Methanolic Phoenix dactylifera L. Extract Ameliorates Cisplatin-Induced Hepatic Injury in Male Rats

This study investigated the ameliorative potential of methanolic date flesh extract (MDFE) against cisplatin-induced hepatic injury. Twenty male rats (weighing 180-200 g) were allocated into four groups: control; date flesh (DF) group (oral 600 mg/kg MDFE for 21 days); Cis group (7.5 mg/kg i.p. at day 16); and date flesh/cisplatin (DF/Cis) group (oral 600 mg/kg MDFE for 21 days and 7.5 mg/kg i.p. at day 16). Hepatic biochemical parameters in sera, and inflammatory and oxidant/antioxidant hepatic biomarkers were estimated. Hepatic histological changes and the immunohistochemistry of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were assessed. Pretreatment with MDFE decreased Cis-triggered liver biochemical parameters, oxidative stress, inflammatory biomarkers, and histological damage. Moreover, MDFE treatment reduced Cis-induced hepatic NF-κB, COX-2, and α-SMA protein expression. MDFE exerted a hepatoprotective effect when used concomitantly with Cis. Its effect was mediated via its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredients.

Development of value added drinks from date palm juice (Phoenix sylvestris)

The high decaying tendency of date palm juice limited its manifold application. Here, we developed a preservation technique for concentrated juice and formulated ready to serve (RTS) drinks. The collected date palm juice was heated at 85 °C for 5 min; scum was removed and preserved in the sterilized glass bottle. After that, this pasteurized juice was concentrated to 9%, 12%, 15%, 18% and 21% total soluble solids (TSS) levels and treated with 200 ppm of potassium metabisulfite (KMS) and stored at refrigerated temperature (4 °C). Among them, 18% TSS showed overall acceptability to sensory evaluations for colour, flavour, sweetness, TSS, acidity and microbial load. In contrast, heat treated date palm juice (9% TSS) was used to formulate RTS drinks containing 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% date palm juice, were preserved in sterilized bottles and stored at 30 °C. Results showed that RTS drinks containing 30% date palm juice secured the best colour, flavour, sweetness, TSS, acidity, microbial load and overall acceptability. Furthermore, no significant change was observed in TSS, acidity, microbial load up to three and six months for concentrated juice and RTS drinks, respectively.

Date fruit processing waste and approaches to its valorization: A review

In the Middle East and North Africa, dates are a traditional and economically valuable crop, playing an essential role in people's daily diets. Date fruit production and related processing industry generate a large quantity of waste; for illustration, the date juicing industry produces roughly 17-28% Date press cake (DPC), which is mainly discarded in open lands and drains. Considering the generation volume and the nutrient content of DPC, this organic by-product stream can be valorized through the production of a wide range of products with a great market appeal, such as volatile fatty acids, activated carbon, organic acids, etc. To provide an insight into the feasibility of the application DPC as a green precursor for various chemical and biological processes, the chemical and nutritional composition of dates and DPC, an overview of the date processing industries, and common practices conducted for DPC valorization addressed and thoroughly discussed, in this review.

Date Fruit and Seed in Nutricosmetics

Many recent studies in the field of cosmetics have focused on organically sourced substances. Products made from organic materials are safe, high quality, cruelty-free, and more effective than those made from synthetic materials. Many organic compounds are known to be physiologically active in humans and have an extended storage capacity and long-lasting environmental effects. Agro-industrial waste has recently increased substantially, and the disposal of date palm waste, often performed in primitive ways such as burning, is harmful to the environment. Fruit processing industries generate over 10% of the total date seed waste daily, which could be converted into useful food products. Date fruit and seed are rich in sugar, vitamins, fiber, minerals, and phenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that significantly promote human and animal health. This waste is rich in bioactive compounds and essential oils used in many kinds of food, medicine, and cosmetics. Most active cosmetic ingredients come from natural sources such as fruit, fish, and dairy, and recent research shows that date extract and seed oil help to reduce melanin, eczema, acne, and dry patches, while increasing skin moisture and elasticity. This review details the bioactive compounds and nutraceutical properties of date fruit and seed, and their use as cosmetic ingredients.

Therapeutic Potential of Date Palm against Human Infertility: A Review

Male and female infertility is a global major health problem. Approximately 15% of couples of a reproductive age are unable to achieve the desired pregnancy within 12 months, despite daily unprotected sexual intercourse, and about 10% of infertilities have no specific reason worldwide. Currently, many researchers are interested to investigate the use of natural remedies for preventive and curative purposes of infertility. This review brings together some of the data on the nutritional characteristics of the date palm and its different parts on fertility outcomes and critically evaluates the past and recent literature relevant to the consumption of date fruit against infertility-related problems. Due to its antioxidant potential, dates are considered a functional treatment for reducing the risks of infertility. In males, the date palm has a potent effect on the reproductive parameters including hormonal levels and seminal vesicle parameters as well as sperm motility, count, and viability; whereas, in females, it shows a convincing effect on reproductive parameters including oogenesis process, strengthening of oocytes, regulation of hormones, strengthening of pregnancy, reduction of the need for labor augmentation, and postpartum hemorrhage prevention.

Dates fruits effects on blood glucose among patients with diabetes mellitus: A review and meta-analysis

Background & Objective:

Dates fruit is known for its great nutritional value and two to three servings of dates fruit/day are beneficial for patients with diabetes. However, some may advice against this cheap and widely available fruit consumption. Besides, 12% of the population Worldwide are either suffering or are at risk of developing diabetes, but no previous meta-analysis has assessed this important issue. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the effects of date’s fruit on glycemia among patients with diabetes.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Medline, EBSCO, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases for trials published in English from the first published article up to December 2020. The following keywords were used: ^“dates fruit and glycemic control^”, “dates fruit and blood glucose^”, ^“dates fruit and HbA1_c^” without limitations regarding the date of publication.

Results:

Out of the 942 references identified, only 10 cohorts from five full texts were included, a reduction of Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), odd ratio, -24.79, 95% CI=-34.75, -14.83 P =0.002. I2 for heterogeneity=79%, P <0.00001 and postprandial plasma glucose (PPPG), odd ratio -28.19, 95% CI=-60.66-4.29, P =<0.0001. I2 for heterogeneity=92%, P=0.09) was observed. While the effect on HbA1_c was neutral, odd ratio, -.20, 95% CI=-.46 -.06, P=0.13. I2 for heterogeneity=0. %, P=0.55.

Conclusion:

Dates fruit was beneficial regarding glycemic control among patients with diabetes, physician may not need to restrict its use among patients with diabetes. The small number of the included studies and the heterogeneity observed in PPPG and FPG sub-analysis limited the current results. Further trials assessing the glycemic indices of various types of dates fruit are needed.

Efficient utilization of date palm waste for the bioethanol production through Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain

Dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) are rich in nutritional compounds, particularly in sugars. Sugars offer anaerobic fermentation, used for bioethanol production. Recently, researchers and industrialists finding ways to produce low-cost bioethanol on large scale using agricultural wastes. Date palm residual is the largest agricultural waste in Pakistan, which can be the cheapest source for bioethanol production, whereas the current study was designed to explore the possible utilization and the potential of date palm waste for bioethanol production through Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown in yeast extract, Bacto peptone, and d-glucose medium. The fermentation process resulted in the production of 15% (v/v) ethanol under the optimum condition of an incubation period of 72 hr and three sugars (glucose, fructose, and sucrose) were found in date waste. The functional group of ethanol (C2H5OH) was also found via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. Therefore, S. cerevisiae could be recommended for ethanol production due to short fermentation time at 25% inoculum in 30°C and reduced the processing cost. Common date varieties of low market value are a preferred substrate for the process of producing industrial ethanol. Additionally, proximate analysis of date fruit by near-infrared spectroscopy revealed moisture contents (16.84%), crude protein (0.3%), ash (9.8%), crude fat (2.6%), and neutral detergent fibers (13.4%). So, date fruit contains various nutrients for microbial growth for ethanol production.

Uncovering Prospective Role and Applications of Existing and New Nutraceuticals from Bacterial, Fungal, Algal and Cyanobacterial, and Plant Sources

Nutraceuticals are a category of products more often associated with food but having pharmaceuticals property and characteristics. However, there is still no internationally accepted concept of these food-pharmaceutical properties, and their interpretation can differ from country to country. Nutraceuticals are used as part of dietary supplements in most countries. They can be phytochemicals which are biologically active and have health benefits. These can be supplied as a supplement and/or as a functional food to the customer. For human health and longevity, these materials are likely to play a vital role. Consumption of these items is typical without a therapeutic prescription and/or supervision by the vast majority of the public. The development of nutraceuticals can be achieved through many bioresources and organisms. This review article will discuss the current research on nutraceuticals from different biological sources and their potential use as an agent for improving human health and well-being, as well as the gaps and future perspective of research related to nutraceutical development.