Antioxidant capacity and the correlation with major phenolic compounds, anthocyanin, and tocopherol content in various extracts from the wild edible Boletus edulis mushroom

Survey of Edible Amanita in Northern Thailand and Their Nutritional Value, Total Phenolic Content, Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities

Edible wild mushrooms are extremely popular among consumers and are highly valued for their potential economic benefits in northern Thailand. In this present study, a total of 19 specimens of edible Amanita were collected during investigations of wild edible mushrooms in northern Thailand during the period from 2019 to 2022. Their morphological characteristics and the phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and partial large subunit (nrLSU) of ribosomal RNA, RNA polymerase II second-largest subunit (rpb2) and partial translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef-1) indicated that the collected specimens belonged to A. hemibapha, A. pseudoprinceps, A. rubromarginata, A. subhemibapha, and Amanita section Caesareae. This is the first report of A. pseudoprinceps and A. subhemibapha from Thailand. Full descriptions, illustrations and a phylogenetic placement of all specimens collected in this study are provided. Subsequently, the nutritional composition and total phenolic content, as well as the antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, of each species were investigated. The results indicate that the protein contents in both A. pseudoprinceps and A. subhemibapha were significantly higher than in A. hemibapha and A. rubromarginata. The highest total phenolic content was found in the extract of A. pseudoprinceps. In terms of antioxidant properties, the extract of A. pseudoprinceps also exhibited significantly high antioxidant activity by 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. However, the extract of A. rubromarginata had the lowest total phenolic content and level of antioxidant activity. Additionally, α-glucosidase inhibitory activity varied for different Amanita species and the highest level of α-glucosidase inhibitory activity was found in the extract of A. pseudoprinceps. This study provides valuable information on the nutrient content, phenolic content and the antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory potential of edible Amanita species found in northern Thailand.

Studies of Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activity in Ready-to-Drink Wild Ganoderma Teas: An In Vitro Approach

Ganoderma is a medicinally important mushroom and has been used since ancient times. However, mostly G. lucidum has been used for therapeutic purposes, in form of tea, dietary and drug supplements but other species of Ganoderma are still remaining underexploited. This study is the first approach to valorize Ganoderma teas prepared from different wild species of Ganoderma other than G. lucidum with respect to both phytochemically and therapeutically through investigation of their phytochemical, carbohydrate contents and exploring their antioxidant activity. Phytochemical contents such as phenol and flavonoids were quantified using spectrophotometry methods. The carbohydrate content of the teas was estimated by phenol sulphuric acid method. The biochemical analysis revealed the teas contained a notable amount of phenolic compounds ranging from 19.15 to 40.2 µg GAE/mg of extract and also showed significant content of flavonoids. Further, antioxidant potential in terms of DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging ability and total antioxidant capacity was also evaluated. According to the results, G. resinaceum tea showed better potential in scavenging DPPH (EC50 36 ug/mL) and ABTS radicals (EC50 3 9 ug/mL) whereas the least effect was shown for the tea of G. ahmedi. Therefore, tea showing the best results, i.e. G. resinaceum tea, was also analyzed for cytotoxicity on breast cancer cells. It was found that the tea made from G. resinaceum inhibited cellular growth and proliferation in a dose-dependent manner with maximum growth inhibition (61%) observed at the highest concentration of 2.3 mg/mL. The presence of a greater quantity of carbohydrates in G. resinaceum tea also justified the remarkable anticancer potential of the tea. Overall, our findings indicated that a few wild species of Ganoderma other than G. lucidum have great potential to be valued as a healthy beverage with immense therapeutic benefits.

Mycochemistry, antioxidant content, and antioxidant potentiality of the ethanolic extract of Pleurotus florida and its anti-cancerous effect on HeLa cancer cell line, and antitumor effect on HeLa-implanted mice

Objectives

Cervical cancer is increasing worldwide and is becoming resistant to the existing drugs in clinical practice. Here, ethanolic extract of fruit body of Pleurotus florida was evaluated as antioxidant, anticancer agent against HeLa cell lines and anti-tumor against cervical cancer in mice model.

Methods

Fruit bodies of P. florida in 90% ethanol, and the P. florida ethanolic extract (PFEE) was subsequently investigated for its antioxidant content and activity, anticancer properties against the cervical cancer cell line, HeLa, and antitumor activity against HeLa implanted mice.

Results

The antioxidant activity bioassay showed that the IC50 of PFEE was 41.17 ± 1.42a μg/ml. The cytotoxicity assay revealed that PFEE caused inhibition of cell proliferation. At the highest dose (1,250 μg/ml) after 24 h, 48 h, or 72 h of treatment, the percentages of cell growth inhibition were 75.22%, 77.77%, and 84.65%, respectively. It revealed that PFEE-treated cells became rounded and the nuclei became fragmented. PFEE induced intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species and reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential. PFEE also led to an up regulation of the apoptotic genes for caspases-3, -9, and Bax, whereas Bcl-2 gene was down regulated, and it also promoted the expression of p53. Cell cycle analysis revealed that cell cycle was arrested at the G0/G1 checkpoint. PFEE suppressed metastasis and colonization. At a dosage of PFEE of 50 mg/kg of body weight, a 66.72% reduction in the size of tumors and an 87.44% reduction in the tumor weight were observed in mice.

Conclusions

It has demonstrated that PFEE is a highly potent anti-cervical cancer agent in vitro and in vivo.

Antioxidant properties of fortified yogurt with medicinal mushrooms from Phellinus species

In light of the powerful therapeutic features of Phellinus species and due to the absence of toxic compounds, our investigations were aimed at screening of the antioxidant profile of fortified yogurts with hot water extracts from Phellinus torulosus and Phellinus igniarius leveled to 10%, 5%, and 1% final fortification concentrations after acknowledging their superior bioactive content and radical scavenging capacities (59.77% and 56.73% of DPPH inhibition, respectively) versus cold water extracts (29.87% and 33.18% inhibition rates). Fortified samples signified dose-dependent increases in their inhibition rates during the storage period, with significant differences between 10% fortifications on the 7 day of storage in favor of the samples fortified with P. torulosus. Explicitly, P. torulosus showed 16% higher DPPH and 62.5% higher LPO neutralizing activity than yogurt enriched with P. igniarius. However, prolonged refrigeration tended to equalize antioxidant profiles in both fortified yogurts. Total titratable acidity and pH levels of the fortified yogurts as most important parameters for consumer acceptance were unaltered during storage. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: It is a common scientific perception that bioactive compounds present in wild medicinal fungi are the main contributors for their in vitro antioxidant efficiency. On account of these attributes, Phellinus species have been exploited in Far East Asia as safe remedies for many disorders thus making them attractive fortifying ingredients; however, according to our knowledge these mushrooms have never been used as natural additives in beverages. Given the current popularity of yogurt consumption as seen from the global market profits, as well as experimental evidences of enhanced potency of extract in comparison with powder due to maximal bioavailability of antioxidants, it is our belief that this study will increase the interest in the manufacture of functional foods with extracts from wild mushrooms.

Chemical Characterization of Taif Rose (Rosa damascena) Methanolic Extract and Its Physiological Effect on Liver Functions, Blood Indices, Antioxidant Capacity, and Heart Vitality against Cadmium Chloride Toxicity

Exposure to cadmium chloride (CdCl₂) causes an imbalance in the oxidant status of the body by triggering the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study investigated the effect of Rosa damascena (R. damascena) extract on oxidative stress, hepatotoxicity, and the injured cardiac tissue of male rats exposed to CdCl₂. Forty male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: the vehicle control (1 mg/kg normal saline), the CdCl₂-treated group (5 mg/kg), the R. damascena extract group (100 mg Kg), and the combination of CdCl₂ and R. damascena extract group. Male rats exposed to CdCl₂ showed multiple significant histopathological changes in the liver and heart, including inflammatory cell infiltration and degenerative alterations. Successive exposure to CdCl₂ elevated the levels of hepatic and cardiac reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), tumour necrosis factor-alpha) (TNF-α) and interleukin -6 (IL-6) and decreased antioxidant defences. The extracts significantly increased the levels of glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT), whereas it dramatically decreased the levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and the mRNA of TNF-α and IL-6. R. damascena administration prevented liver and heart injury; suppressed excessive ROS generation, LPO, and inflammatory responses; and enhanced antioxidant defences. In addition, R. damascena upregulated the mRNA of TNF-α and IL-6 in CdCl₂-administered male rats. In conclusion, R. damascena modulated the oxidative stress and inflammation induced by CdCl₂. The hepatic and cardiac tissue damage and histopathological alterations resulting from the CdCl₂-induced oxidative stress were counteracted by the administration of R. damascena extracts. R. damascena enhanced antioxidant defence enzymes in male rats.

Chemical Characterization of Taif Rose (Rosa damascena Mill var. trigentipetala) Waste Methanolic Extract and Its Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Effects against Cadmium Chloride (CdCl2)-Induced Hepatotoxicity and Potential Anticancer Activities against Liver Cancer Cells (HepG2)

Taif rose (Rosa damascena Mill) is one of the most important economic products of the Taif Governorate, Saudi Arabia. Cadmium chloride (CdCl2) is a common environmental pollutant that is widely used in industries and essentially induces many toxicities, including hepatotoxicity. In this study, the major compounds in the waste of Taif rose extract (WTR) were identified and chemically and biologically evaluated. GC–MS analysis of WTR indicated the presence of many saturated fatty acids, vitamin E, triterpene, dicarboxylic acid, terpene, linoleic acid, diterpenoid, monoterpenoid, flavonoids, phenylpyrazoles, and calcifediol (vitamin D derivative). The assessment of potential anticancer activity against HepG2 cells proved that WTR had a high cell killing effect with IC50 of 100–150 µg/mL. In addition, WTR successfully induced high cell cycle arrest at G0/G1, S, and G2 phases, significant apoptosis, necrosis, and increased autophagic cell death response in the HepG2 line. For the evaluation of its anti-CdCl2 toxicity, 32 male rats were allocated to four groups: control, CdCl2, WTR, and CdCl2 plus WTR. Hepatic functions and antioxidant biomarkers (SOD, CAT, GRx, GPx, and MDA) were examined. Histological changes and TEM variations in the liver were also investigated to indicate liver status. The results proved that WTR alleviated CdCl2 hepatotoxicity by improving all hepatic vitality markers. In conclusion, WTR could be used as a preventive and therapeutic natural agent for the inhibition of hepatic diseases and the improvement of redox status. Additional in vitro and in vivo studies are warranted.

Comparison of Different Extraction Solvents for Characterization of Antioxidant Potential and Polyphenolic Composition in Boletus edulis and Cantharellus cibarius Mushrooms from Romania

Edible mushrooms are well-known for their nutritional benefits and low energy density. In addition, mushroom extracts contain various bioactive compounds that account for their antioxidant activity; the applied extraction conditions influence the extraction efficiency of such compounds. Therefore, this study investigates the effects of four extractants on the content of polyphenols and antioxidant properties of Boletus edulis and Cantharellus cibarius mushrooms, aiming to optimize the extraction process. Powders of B. edulis and C. cibarius mushrooms were subjected to extraction with acidic water (10% CH₃COOH), ethanol/water/acetic acid (15:76.5:8.5, v/v/v), hexane, and diethyl ether to measure their total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC). Furthermore, the level of individual polyphenolic compounds in these extracts was quantified using an HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS method. Results showed that the type of solvent significantly influenced the TPC and TEAC of mushroom powder but insignificantly influenced the TFC. A very strong positive correlation was found between TPC and TEAC, but no correlation was found between TFC and TEAC or TPC and TFC. Acidic water extracted the highest amount of polyphenolic compounds from these mushroom powders. Therefore, the aqueous extract showed the highest TPC and strongest antioxidant activity. Thus, acidic water is recommended for polyphenol analysis in B. edulis and C. cibarius mushrooms.

Evaluation of Phytochemical Contents and In Vitro Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anticancer Activities of Black Rice Leaf (Oryza sativa L.) Extract and Its Fractions

Black rice leaves (Oryza sativa L.) are a major part of rice straw left in open fields after rice harvest as agricultural waste. In this study, crude ethanolic extract (CEE) and various solvent fractions (hexane (Hex), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), n-butanol (n-BuOH), and aqueous fractions) of black rice leaves were investigated for their bioactive compound contents as well as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. The results demonstrated that among all the fractions, the n-BuOH fraction presented the greatest contents of total phenolics and flavonoids, while anthocyanins were found to be abundant in the n-BuOH and aqueous fractions, which also exhibited powerful antioxidant abilities according to DPPH and ABTS radical-scavenging assays and a reducing power assay. Regarding anti-inflammatory activity, CEE and EtOAc reduced the production of NO and cytokine secretion (PGE2, IL-6, and IL-1β) but displayed less effect on tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) release in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells. They also significantly decreased iNOS and COX-2 protein expression. Additionally, the phenolics-rich ethyl acetate fraction showed the greatest activity against HepG2 liver carcinoma cells, inhibited cell growth, increased the Sub-G1 population, and induced apoptosis via mitochondrion-dependent mechanisms. In conclusion, black rice leaves, a byproduct of rice, exhibited strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer capacities and might be useful for application in functional foods and the pharmaceutical industry.

Biochemical and Morphological Characteristics of Some Macrofungi Grown Naturally

Recently, the production of macro-fungi (mushrooms) has steadily increased, and so has their economic value, in global terms. The use of functional foods, dietary supplements, and traditional medicines derived from macro-fungi is increasing as they have numerous health benefits as well as abundant nutrients. This study aimed to determine some biochemical contents (pH, soluble solid contents (SSC), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total phenolic contents (TPC)) of eight edible macro-fungi species growing naturally (in the wild) in Turkey. The samples were collected in the Van Yuzuncu Yil University (VAN YYU) campus area in the months of April-May 2018, in different locations, and brought to the laboratory, and the necessary mycological techniques were applied for their identification. Location, habitats, collection dates and some morphological measurements were determined for all identified species. Biochemical parameters of the macro-fungi species were analyzed separately both in cap and stem. The color values (L, a, b, Chroma and hue) were separately evaluated on cap surface, cap basement and stem. Results showed that there were significant differences for most of the biochemical parameters in different organs between and within species. The pH, SSC, TAC and TPC values varied from 6.62 to 8.75, 2.25 to 5.80° brix, 15.72 to 57.67 TE mg^-1 and 13.85 to 60.16 gallic acid equivalent (GAE) fresh weight basis. As a result of the study, it was concluded that the parameters such as total antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content and soluble content in Morchella esculenta, Helvella leucopus, Agaricus bitorquis and Suillus collinitus were higher than for the other species and clearly implied that they may be further exploited as functional ingredients in the composition of innovative food products.

Narrative Review: Bioactive Potential of Various Mushrooms as the Treasure of Versatile Therapeutic Natural Product

Mushrooms have remained an eternal part of traditional cuisines due to their beneficial health potential and have long been recognized as a folk medicine for their broad spectrum of nutraceuticals, as well as therapeutic and prophylactic uses. Nowadays, they have been extensively investigated to explain the chemical nature and mechanisms of action of their biomedicine and nutraceuticals capacity. Mushrooms belong to the astounding dominion of Fungi and are known as a macrofungus. Significant health benefits of mushrooms, including antiviral, antibacterial, anti-parasitic, antifungal, wound healing, anticancer, immunomodulating, antioxidant, radical scavenging, detoxification, hepatoprotective cardiovascular, anti-hypercholesterolemia, and anti-diabetic effects, etc., have been reported around the globe and have attracted significant interests of its further exploration in commercial sectors. They can function as functional foods, help in the treatment and therapeutic interventions of sub-optimal health states, and prevent some consequences of life-threatening diseases. Mushrooms mainly contained low and high molecular weight polysaccharides, fatty acids, lectins, and glucans responsible for their therapeutic action. Due to the large varieties of mushrooms present, it becomes challenging to identify chemical components present in them and their beneficial action. This article highlights such therapeutic activities with their active ingredients for mushrooms.

Chemical Ingredients of Fresh and Dry Wild Mushrooms from Bosnia and Herzegovina

<p>Many species of wild mushrooms are used as a delicacy in the diet, but data on their nutritional value and the effects of their storage on nutritional values are rare. The aim of this study was to determine the content of Free Amino Acids (FAAs), total carbohydrates, vitamin C, and total anthocyanins in six wild mushroom species collected in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Results showed that the drying of mushrooms does not have much influence on the presence of essential and non-essential amino acids. Mushrooms are an excellent source of amino acids whether they are fresh or dry. The total carbohydrate content varied between 12.25-62.75 mg g^-1 for fresh mushroom extracts and 40.98-167.24 mg g^-1 for dry mushroom extracts. The total carbohydrate content in dry mushrooms is significantly higher than in extracts of fresh mushrooms. The vitamin C content of mushrooms varied between 0.02-1.95 mg g^-1 for fresh mushrooms and 0.0-0.63 mg g^-1 for dry mushrooms. A lower vitamin C content was found in dry mushrooms, which can be affected by the method of drying mushrooms. The total anthocyanins content varied between 0.39-0.66 mg CGE mL^-1 for fresh mushroom extracts and 0.10-0.19 mg CGE mL^-1 for dry mushroom extracts. Lower total anthocyanins content was found in dry mushroom extracts, probably due to the destruction of anthocyanins by drying. Our research shows that selected wild edible mushrooms, fresh and dry, have considerable nutritional potential. However, further research is needed on both other nutrients and anti-nutrients in these mushrooms to support their nutritional dominance.</p>

High-performance thin-layer chromatography based approach for bioassay and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy for the evaluation of antioxidant compounds from Asparagus racemosus Willd. aerial parts

Asparagus racemosus Willd. is widely used to combat various diseases owing to its medicinal properties. In this study, arial parts of A. racemosus were investigated for their total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and antioxidative potential. A high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method combined with effect-directed-analysis was also developed to screen the antioxidant effects of A. racemosus and quantify biologically active compounds on chromatograms from A. racemosus. Total phenolics (154 mg gallic acid equivalent/g), flavonoid contents (497 mg quercetin/g) and IC₅₀ (15.25 μg/ml) were found to be higher in methanolic extract of A. racemosus than in n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts. HPTLC hyphenated with chemical derivatizations (DPPH•, p-anisaldehyde/sulfuric acid, and ferric chloride) was used to evaluate antioxidant activity and the presence of phytosterols, terpenoids and polyphenolic contents. The same compounds at 100*retention factor = 58, 68, 74 and 65 in extracts were responsible for antioxidant activity. Hyphenated HPTLC allowed a rapid characterization of the active compound with a combination of effect-directed-analysis and attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Spectral analysis of the band from attenuated total reflectance identified myricetin, quercetin, p-coumaric acid and caffeic acid as responsible for the antioxidant activity.

Antioxidative Characteristics and Sensory Acceptability of Bread Substituted with Purple Yam (Dioscorea alata L.)

In this study, plain bread was made by substituting wheat flour with purple yam flour (Dioscorea alata, L). The addition of 0, 10, 15, 20, and 30% purple yam flour aims to increase the functional value of plain bread as a source of natural antioxidants. The bread produced with two baking temperatures (170°C and 180°C) was tested for anthocyanin levels, total phenol, antioxidant activity (DPPH free radical scavenging), volume expansion, color, and preference test. The results showed that the temperatures of the bread baking did not affect anthocyanin levels, total phenol, antioxidant activity, volume expansion, and bread color (p > 0.05). The substitution of purple yam flour had a significant effect on anthocyanin levels, total phenol, antioxidant activity, volume, and bread color (p < 0.05). The levels of anthocyanins, total phenol, antioxidant activity, and darker color increased with the addition of purple yam flower whereas the rate of expansion reduced. However, the addition of purple yam flour did not affect the level of preference for the bread produced. Purple yam flour can be added to the manufacture of bread made from wheat flour as much as 30% with a baking temperature of 180°C. The resulting bread contained total anthocyanins 54.62 mg/100 g db, total phenol 391.14 mg EAG/100 g db, antioxidant activity 48.53% and volume expansion 64.85%, color L^∗ = 53.06, a^∗ = 6.52, b^∗ = 13.32, C = 14.87, H = 64.06, and sensory score = 3.24 (preferred).

The Changes in Antioxidant Activity of Selected Flavonoids and Caffeine Depending on the Dosage and Form of Thiamine

Phenolic compounds and thiamine may serve as therapies against oxidative stress-related neurodegenerative diseases. However, it is important to note that these components show high instability under changing conditions. The study’s aim was to determine the impact of the thiamine concentration (hydrochloride—TH and pyrophosphate—TP; in the range 0.02 to 20 mg/100 g on the indices of the chelating properties and reducing power, and free radicals scavenging indices of EGCG, EGC, ECG and caffeine added from 0.04 to 6.0 mg/100 g. Our research confirmed that higher concentrations of TH and TP can exhibit significant activity against the test antioxidant indices of all components. When above 5.0 mg/100 g of thiamine was used, the radical scavenging abilities of the compound decreased in the following order: EGCG > ECG > EGC > caffeine. The highest correlation was found for the concentration of thiamine pyrophosphate to 20.0 mg/100 g and EGCG. Knowledge of the impact of factors associated with the concentration of both EGCG, EGC, ECG or caffeine and thiamine on their activity could carry weight in regulating the quality supplemented foods, especially of nutrition support for people of all ages were oral, enteral tube feeding and parenteral nutrition).

Prospecting medicinal properties of Lion's mane mushroom

Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Persoon, a popular medicinal edible mushroom, owns a long history of usage in traditional Chinese medicine and also in other oriental countries. Along with this, its several bioactive compounds have been evolved into food supplements. Meanwhile, this present investigation aimed at extracting bioactive components from fruiting bodies of H. erinaceus using two different solvents and evaluating its in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative efficacy. Chemical analysis showed extracts were rich in phenol, flavonoids, and ascorbic acids while lesser amount of carotenoids were also detected in these extracts. Both extracts were able to scavenge 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (~76%) and 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) radicals (~81%) and also showed chelating activity (~73.05%). The ethanolic extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (total antioxidant capacity 2.17 µg ascorbic acid equivalent/mg of extract) whereas methanolic extract showed moderate capacity (total antioxidant capacity 1.42 µg ascorbic acid equivalent/mg of extract). All extracts displayed antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well (minimum inhibition concentration 1,575-2,750 µg/ml) although methanolic extract showed some selectivity towards bacterial strains. Apart from these, ethanolic fraction has found to exhibit potent cytotoxicity (IC50 403.12 µg/ml) towards lung adenocarcinoma cells. These studies thus provide the reference data that could support this mushroom as an easily accessible source of natural bioactive components. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Mushroom extracts have long been traditionally used as miracle medicine to treat an extensive range of ailments. These findings indicate the potential benefits of the Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Persoon extracts for the development of multi-target therapeutics as well as extraction with appropriate solvents also provide leads for the isolation of various principle compounds. The extracts thus could be used to treat oxidative stress-related disorders as they are found to contain antioxidant compounds like phenols and others and also they possessed good antimicrobial and anticancer activity.

Therapeutic Properties of Edible Mushrooms and Herbal Teas in Gut Microbiota Modulation

Edible mushrooms are functional foods and valuable but less exploited sources of biologically active compounds. Herbal teas are a range of products widely used due to the therapeutic properties that have been demonstrated by traditional medicine and a supplement in conventional therapies. Their interaction with the human microbiota is an aspect that must be researched, the therapeutic properties depending on the interaction with the microbiota and the consequent fermentative activity. Modulation processes result from the activity of, for example, phenolic acids, which are a major component and which have already demonstrated activity in combating oxidative stress. The aim of this mini-review is to highlight the essential aspects of modulating the microbiota using edible mushrooms and herbal teas. Although the phenolic pattern is different for edible mushrooms and herbal teas, certain non-phenolic compounds (polysaccharides and/or caffeine) are important in alleviating chronic diseases. These specific functional compounds have modulatory properties against oxidative stress, demonstrating health-beneficial effects in vitro and/or In vivo. Moreover, recent advances in improving human health via gut microbiota are presented. Plant-derived miRNAs from mushrooms and herbal teas were highlighted as a potential strategy for new therapeutic effects.

Rhaponticin contained Rheum officinale root extract improved Postmenopause symptom of Ovariectomized Rat

Postmenopausal women have decreased levels of the hormone estrogen. Reduced estrogen levels will often involve many symptoms that reduced quality of life. This research aims to analyze the effects of Rheum officinale root extract on postmenopausal model rats. To this end, thirty rats underwent ovariectomy (OVX) surgery and six rats were operated without having their ovaries removed. The OVX was confirmed by body weight–uterus weight ratio and a vaginal swab. Six groups of the rats were performed: SHAM group and negative control groups are given vehicle; the positive control was assigned tamoxifen; and the extract has been given three doses 7, 35, and 175 mg/200 g BW, respectively, for 30 days. The calcium content of bone ash was measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Blood pressure was evaluated using CODA^®, and the metabolites in the blood were assessed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography. As a result, using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)-MS, we found that the extract's major component was rhaponticin and its metabolites. The bone calcium levels increased with increasing doses of the extract. In the OVX group, the bone calcium content was decreased significantly 51.56% ± 8.9% g compared with the SHAM group 62.97% ±5.6% g, and the administration of Rheum extract could restore the calcium content of the bone to become 69.27% ± 3.8% g. From the above data, we concluded that Rheum root extracts contain astrigin, rhaponticin, rhapontigenin, and desoxyrhaponticin. Rheum root extract could improve calcium content and lipid profiles of OVX rats by stimulation osteoblastogenesis. Rheum root extracts could control the blood pressure of OVX rats by reducing lipid profiles.

The influence of yeast extract and jasmonic acid on phenolic acids content of in vitro hairy root cultures of Orthosiphon aristatus

Phenolic acids represent a big group of plant secondary metabolites that can be used as food additives, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. Obtaining phenolic acids from the plant in vitro cultures provide an attractive alternative to produce high-value plant-derived products. The impact of yeast extract and jasmonic acid on the induction of defense responses and consequently the production of phenolic acids in vitro hairy root cultures of  O. aristatus have been investigated.  Treatment of O. aristatus cultures with jasmonic acid caused accumulation of 12.98 mg.g-1 DW of phenolic acids, elicitation with yeast extract resulted in the highest amount of phenolic acids, particularly in 17.99 mg.g-1 DW as compared to 4.03 mg.g-1 DW for the non-treated cultures. Individual phenolic acids showed a different response to elicitation. Particularly rosmarinic acid content on the control plot reached 2.89 mg.g-1 DW, while after the treatment with jasmonic acid is increased to 10.84 mg.g-1 DW and after yeast application, it was 14.31 mg.g-1 DW. Also, caffeic acid content increased until 0.75 and 2.01 mg.g-1 DW after application of jasmonic acid and yeast extract, while at the control plot its concentration was 0.58 mg.g-1 DW. Application of yeast extract influenced synthesis of phenolic acids in vitro cultures of O. aristatus stronger as jasmonic acid treatment.

Purification and characterization of a novel protein with activity against non-small-cell lung cancer in vitro and in vivo from the edible mushroom Boletus edulis

A new anti-tumor protein (designated as Boletus edulis or in short BEAP) was isolated from dried fruit bodies of the edible bolete mushroom Boletus edulis. The purification protocol employed comprised fast ion exchange chromatography on a Hitrap Q column and ion exchange chromatography on a DEAE-52 cellulose column. Superdex G75 gel filtration and SDS-PAGE analysis revealed that BEAP was a protein with a molecular weight of 16.7 KD. The protein exhibited potent anti-cancer activity on A549 cells both in vitro and in vivo. With the use of AO/EB staining, annexin V-FITC/PI, and Western blotting, it was demonstrated in vitro that the cytotoxicity of BEAP was mediated by induction of apoptosis and arrest of A549 cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. BEAP significantly suppressed the growth of A549 solid tumors in vivo. These results prove that BEAP is a new multifunctional protein with anti-tumor and anti-metastasis capabilities.

Effect of eugenol treatment in hyperglycemic murine models: A meta-analysis

Diabetes is a highly prevalent health condition affecting many people worldwide. In vitro studies have described the positive effects of cloves and its major compound, eugenol, in the treatment of diabetes. However, it is unclear whether the effects of this compound are negative, neutral, or positive, on hyperglycemic animals. Therefore, a meta-analytical review was conducted to determine the magnitude of effects of eugenol on variables directly and indirectly related to diabetes. This study revealed that eugenol treatment decreased the glucose levels and the activity of carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes, ameliorated the lipid profile, and reduced the oxidative, renal, and hepatic damages in hyperglycemic rodents. Moreover, eugenol alleviated the weight loss and restored the activity of the antioxidant defense system. Insulin levels was not affected by eugenol treatment. Also, mixed model analyses revealed that the use of purified or non-purified eugenol and the concentrations administered significantly affected the treatment outcome. In conclusion, our findings indicate that eugenol may have potential therapeutic effects in the treatment of diabetes. Furthermore, this study can direct future preclinical and clinical trials, with important implications for human health.

Antioxidant Activity and Chemical Characteristics of Supercritical CO2 and Water Extracts from Willow and Poplar

Renewable feedstock from perennial industrial crops, including those cultivated on marginal land in a short-rotation coppice system, could be an important contribution to the bioeconomy. The majority of data available on the topic are limited to the production of bioenergy from this type of biomass. According to the concept of bioeconomy, biomass-based bioproducts have priority over energy production. This paper characterizes the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of extracts from bark (b), wood (w) or a mixture of bark and wood (b + w) from Salix purpurea, Salix viminalis and Populus nigra obtained using supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO₂), scCO₂ and water (1%, w/w) or only water. Generally, a high concentration of polyphenols was obtained after extraction with scCO₂ and water, while the lowest concentration was found in extracts obtained with scCO₂. The highest concentration of polyphenols (p < 0.05) was obtained in an extract from P. nigra (b) (502.62 ± 9.86 mg GAE/g dry matter (d.m.)) after extraction with scCO₂ and water, whereas the lowest polyphenol concentration was observed in an scCO₂ extract from S. purpurea (b) (6.02 ± 0.13 mg GAE/g d.m.). The flavonoids were effectively separated by extraction with scCO₂ (0.88-18.37 mg QE/g d.m.). A positive linear relationship between the antioxidant activity determined by DPPH and ABTS assays and the concentration of polyphenols was demonstrated, R² = 0.8377 and R² = 0.9568, respectively. It is most probable that the concentration of flavonoids, rather than the concentration of polyphenols, determines the chelating activity of Fe²⁺. The Fe²⁺-chelating activity of scCO₂ extracts ranged from 75.11% (EC₅₀ = 5.41 mg/cm³, S. purpurea, b + w) to 99.43% (EC₅₀ = 0.85 mg/cm³, P. nigra, b + w). The lowest chelating activity was demonstrated by the extracts obtained with scCO₂ and water (maximum 26.36%, S. purpurea, b + w). In extracts obtained with scCO₂ and water, p-hydroxybenzoic acid (210-428 µg/g), p-coumaric acid (56-281 µg/g), saligenin (142-300 µg/g) and salicortin (16-164 µg/g) were the dominant polyphenols. All of these chemical compounds occurred mainly in the free form. The S. purpurea, S. viminalis and P. nigra biomass proved to be an attractive source of biologically active compounds for various possible applications in food, drugs or cosmetics. These compounds could be extracted using an environmentally friendly method with scCO₂ and water as a co-solvent.

Flavonoids from aerial part of Algerian Ajuga iva (L.) schreb.: The HPLC-UV analysis and Antioxidant capacity

The study deals with the evaluation of the antioxidant capacity of extracts from the aerial part of Algerian Ajuga iva. Extraction of flavonoids was carried out by 85% of methanol, then the crude extract was successively separated with ethyl acetate, butanol, and water. The in vitro antioxidant activity was assessed by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, reducing power, and thiobarbituric acid reacting substances assays. Extracts are subject to HPLC-UV analysis. The average total phenol contents of extracts vary between 3.87 ± 0.17 and 149.74 ± 3.94 (gallic acid equivalent per gram of dry extract). Furthermore, tested extracts exhibited a broad range of flavonoid contents varying from 1.54 ± 0.09 to 41.18 ± 1.03 (catechin equivalent per gram of dry extract). Butanol and ethyl acetate fractions displayed the highest antioxidant activity. A good correlation between the phenolic and flavonoid contents and the antioxidant activity was observed. Rutin, caffeic acid, quercetin, p-coumaric acid, luteolin, and cinnamic acid were present in the extracts. The plant could be a potential source of antioxidant agents.

Optimization of Ultrasonic Extraction to Obtain Erinacine A and Polyphenols with Antioxidant Activity from the Fungal Biomass of Hericium erinaceus

Hericium erinaceus is a medicinal fungal species that produces the active biological metabolite erinacine A with strong antioxidant activity. The classical extraction techniques used to date to obtain metabolites from this fungal species require high consumption of resources and energy and, in the end, prove to be expensive and inefficient, especially on a biomedical scale. The aim of this research is based on the development of an ultrasonic extraction (UE) method for the identification and extraction of biological compounds with high antioxidant activity from the mycelia of H. erinaceus biomass developed through a solid cultivation process. The extraction process was optimized by varying parameters to determine the best extraction yield of metabolites involved in such antioxidant activity, using the response surface methodology (RSM). The physicochemical analyses were oriented towards the investigation of polyphenols, flavonoids, and the diterpenoid erinacine A. It is highlighted that there is a very good mutual connection between the concentration of polyphenols and flavonoids in the extracts studied and the diterpenoid erinacine A. Also, this study describes an efficient and qualitative extraction method for extracting natural antioxidants from the H. erinaceus mushroom, since toxic solvents were not used in the developed extraction procedure. This biomass can be used both as a food source and as a possible phytotherapeutic tool in the prevention or treatment of various neurodegenerative disorders that require drugs with strong antioxidant activity.

Culinary–medicinal mushrooms: a review of organic compounds and bioelements with antioxidant activity

There are about 3000 species of mushrooms, which have a high amount of substances that are beneficial to human health, such as antioxidants. It is well known that oxidative stress plays an important role in the etiopathogenesis of many diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and diseases of the central nervous system. One way to prevent homeostasis disorders that occur as a result of excessive production of pro-oxidative substances is to include the ingredients having antioxidant properties in the diet. Several compounds, such as those with phenolic and indole derivatives as well as carotenoids and some vitamins, exhibit antioxidant activity. These substances are present in many foods, including mushrooms. In addition, they have certain unique compounds that are not found in other sources (e.g., norbadione A). The present work discusses selected ingredients exhibiting antioxidant activity, which are found in various species of mushrooms as wells as describes the content of these compounds in the extracts obtained from mushrooms using artificial digestive juice.

Risk Assessment of Potential Food Chain Threats from Edible Wild Mushrooms Collected in Forest Ecosystems with Heavy Metal Pollution in Upper Silesia, Poland

In this study, the contents of selected heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, Cr, and Ni) and macroelements (C, N, K, P, S, Mg, Na, and Ca) were measured in wild mushrooms growing in a heavily polluted forest ecosystem in the northeastern part of the Upper Silesian Industrial Region. The research was conducted on 10 species of mushrooms belonging to three families: Boletaceae, Russulaceae, and Suillaceae. Using a spatial autoregressive model, the study showed a strong relationship between heavy metal concentrations (especially Zn, Pb, and Cd) and the distance from a source of industrial pollution (a zinc smelter, Huta Miasteczko Śląskie). The concentrations of potentially toxic metals (Pb and Cd) in mushrooms significantly exceeded food-acceptable standards. The bioconcentration factor (BCF), calculated as the ratio between the concentration in mushroom tissues and in forest soils overall, reached the highest values for cadmium (Cd). The highest accumulation capacity for Cd was noted for Imleria badia (BCF = 9.18), which was also the most abundant mushroom species in the study plots. In general, the established threshold values for Pb and Cd concentrations in consumer mushrooms and food products were exceeded up to almost 30-fold in the studied area. We conclude that the potential risk to human health of the toxic elements that enter the food chain through the harvesting and consumption of wild mushrooms from this region is significant.

Investigation of the Interaction of Herbal Ingredients Contained in Triphala Recipe Using Simplex Lattice Design: Chemical Analysis Point of View

The aim of this work was to investigate the interaction of herbal ingredients contained in Triphala recipe (Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica, and Phyllanthus emblica in equal proportion) using simplex lattice design. This work focused on chemical analysis of four phenolic compounds including gallic acid, corilagin, chebulagic acid, and chebulinic acid by validated high-performance liquid chromatography. The effect of the extraction technique (decoction vs. infusion) and gamma irradiation was also examined. The combination index was used as a tool for determination of interaction of the ingredients contained in the herbal recipe. Results showed that the extraction technique and gamma irradiation slightly altered the content of some phenolic compounds as well as the combination index. The positive interaction seems to be found at the equal proportion of the three plants. This work scientifically supported the suitable formula of the Triphala recipe in the traditional use.

The Bioactive Potential of Functional Products and Bioavailability of Phenolic Compounds

The expression of bioactivity depends on the assimilation of different classes of natural substances (e.g., phenolic compounds) in vivo. Six functional extracts (Aspalathus linearis, leaves; Paullinia cupana, seeds; Aristotelia chilensis, berries; Ilex paraguariensis, leaves; Syzygium aromaticum, cloves, and wild berries) were analyzed in vitro and in vivo as an alternative to alleviating pathologies associated with oxidative stress (proliferation of cancer cells). The purpose of this research was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo antioxidant and cytotoxic potential of hydroalcoholic solutions, in addition to the assimilation capacity of bioactive components in Saccharomyces boulardii cells. In vivo antioxidant capacity (critical point value) was correlated with the assimilation ratio of functional compounds. The results of in vitro antioxidant activities were correlated with the presence of quercetin (4.67 ± 0.27 mg/100 mL) and chlorogenic acid (14.38 ± 0.29 mg/100 mL) in I. paraguariensis. Bioassimilation of the main nutraceutical components depended on the individual sample. Phenolic acid levels revealed the poor assimilation of the main components, which could be associated with cell viability to oxidative stress.

Evaluation of Some Biological Applications of Pleurotus citrinopileatus and Boletus edulis Fruiting Bodies

BACKGROUND

Mushrooms are deemed as a special delicacy in many countries. They are considered an important cuisine due to their bioactive ingredients and possible health benefits.

METHODS

Herein, we measured selected biological properties of methanol extracts of Pleurotus citrinopileatus and Boletus edulis fruiting bodies including; in vitro antimicrobial activity, anti-α- glucosidase activity, antioxidant activity, anti-lipase activity and cytotoxic activity against different cancer cells and normal cells.

RESULTS

B. edulis methanol extracts showed high antimicrobial and anti-α-glucosidase activity. In contrast, P. citrinopileatus methanol extracts showed superior antioxidant activity indicated by (1,1- diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) DPPH radical scavenging with half maximal inhibitory concentration of IC50 37.4 µg/ml, anti-lipase activities with IC50 65.2 µg/ml and high cytotoxicity activity against HepG2 and HeLa cell lines with IC50 22.8 and 36.7 µg/ml, respectively. Flow cytometric analysis of the cell cycle was used to show apoptotic effects of methanol extracts against HepG2 and HeLa cells.

CONCLUSION

P. citrinopileatus and B. edulis methanolic extracts appear to contain biologically active compounds that might be used to treat some common human diseases.

Antioxidant, Anti-Melanogenic and Anti-Wrinkle Effects of Phellinus vaninii

In this study, the antioxidant, anti-xanthine oxidase, anti-melanogenic and anti-wrinkle effects of methanol (ME) and hot water (HE) extracts from the fruiting bodies of Phellinus vaninii were investigated. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl free radical scavenging activity of 2.0 mg/mL HE (95.38%) was comparable to that of butylated hydroxytoluene (96.97%), the reference standard. The hydroxyl radical scavenging activities of ME (98.19%) and HE (97.55%) were higher than that of butylated hydroxytoluene (92.66%) at 2.0 mg/mL. Neither ME nor HE was cytotoxic to murine melanoma B16-F10 cells at 25-750 µg/mL. Although the xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory effects of ME and HE were significantly lower than that of allopurinol, the values were higher than 84 percent. The in vitro tyrosinase inhibitory activities of ME and HE were comparable to kojic acid at 2.0 mg/mL. The cellular tyrosinase and melanin synthetic activities of ME and HE on B16-F10 melanoma cells at 500 µg/mL were higher than arbutin, indicating that the inhibitory effects of arbutin on the tyrosinase and melanin synthesis were higher than those of ME and HE. The collagenase inhibitory activity of HE was comparable to EGCG at 2.0 mg/mL, however, the elastase inhibitory activity of ME and HE was lower than EGCG at the concentration tested. The study results demonstrated that the fruiting bodies of Ph. vaninii possessed good antioxidant, anti-xanthine oxidase, cell-free anti-tyrosinase, cellular anti-tyrosinase, anti-collagenase, and moderate anti-elastase activities, which might be used for the development of novel anti-gout, skin-whitening, and skin anti-wrinkle agents.

The Use of Upcycled Defatted Sunflower Seed Flour as a Functional Ingredient in Biscuits

Defatted sunflower seed flour (DSSF) is an upcycled by-product of sunflower oil extraction, rich in protein, fibre and antioxidants. This study assessed the instrumental and sensory quality of biscuits enriched with DSSF at 18% and 36% w/w as a replacement for wheat flour. Measurements included colour, texture, total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity. Sensory analysis was carried out with Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA). The inclusion of DSSF significantly increased the protein content of the biscuits, as well as the TPC and antioxidant capacity of the biscuits. The resulting products were significantly darker, less red and less yellow with increasing DSSF levels, while hardness (measured instrumentally) increased. Sensory results agreed with colour measurements, concluding that DSSF biscuits were more “Brown” than the control, and with texture measurements where biscuits with 36% DSSF had a significantly firmer bite. In addition, DSSF biscuits at 36% inclusion had higher QDA scores for “Off-note” and the lowest scores for “Crumbly” and “Crumb aeration”. DSSF biscuits at 18% inclusion were similar to the control in most parameters and should be considered for further developments. These results show the potential of the upcycled DSSF by-product as a novel, sustainable and healthy food ingredient.

Species and Geographical Origins Discrimination of Porcini Mushrooms Based on FT-IR Spectroscopy and Mineral Elements Combined with Sparse Partial Least Square-Discriminant Analysis

Misrecognition and toxic elements are two of several reasons responsible for food poisoning even death in the summer, a time when a great deal of edible mushrooms is celebrated in Southwestern China featured as complex environment conditions. It is highly important to identify the difference of chemical constituents in edible mushrooms at the regional-scale. In this study, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry were applied to investigate organic matters and 18 mineral elements in porcini mushrooms of six species collected from 17 sampling sites in nine Yunnan cities. Classification models on the species, regions, and part levels were established using sparse partial least square-discriminant analysis and principal component analysis. At the species level and region level accuracies of greater than 92.1% and 92.8% was achieved, respectively, whereas on the part level caps and stipes were classified with 96.7% accuracy. One of the most popular mushrooms is Boletus edulis characterized by polysaccharide, lipid, and ribonucleic acid as well as several phenolic compounds. Temperature and precipitation show possible influences on accumulations of polysaccharides and ribonucleic acid. Furthermore, the most important elements of caps contributed the difference between two parts are copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and phosphorus (P), whereas stipes instead by manganese (Mn) and cobalt (Co). These results demonstrated that FT-IR spectroscopy and elements contents provide information sufficient for classifying different porcini mushroom samples, which might be helpful for controlling food security and quality assessment of edible mushrooms.

An In Vitro Study of the Influence of Curcuma longa Extracts on the Microbiota Modulation Process, In Patients with Hypertension

The multiple causes of cardiovascular diseases signify a major incidence and developmental risk of this pathology. One of the processes accountable for this pathologic development is the instauration of dysbiosis and its connection with an inflammatory process. Low antioxidant colonic protection encourages the progression of inflammation, with cardiovascular dysfunctions being a secondary consequence of the dysbiosis. Curcumin is one of the bioactive compounds displaying promising results for the reduction of an inflammatory process. The present study aims at demonstrating the capacity of three extracts drawn from Curcuma (C.) longa through an in vitro simulation process, for microbiota modulation in patients with hypertension. The acidic pH in the extraction process determined a high curcumin content in the extracts. The major phenolic compound identified was curcumin III, 622 ± 6.88 µg/mL for the ethanol/water/acetic acid extract. Low EC50 values were associated (0.2 µg/mL for DPPH scavenging activity) with the presence of curcumin isomers. A metabolic pattern became evident because the relationship between the short-chain fatty acids acted as a clinical biomarker. The curcumin present stimulated the formation of butyric and propionic acids. Microbiota activity control included a high degree of curcumin degradation and biotransformation in the other phenolic compounds. This developmental process was supported by the progression in the enterobacteria with a corresponding escalation in the pH level. The metabolomic pattern demonstrated a performance similar to the administration of dietary fibre, with the positive effects being dose-dependent.

Bioactive Compounds and Volatile Profiles of Five Transylvanian Wild Edible Mushrooms

This study aimed to determine the chemical composition, fatty acids, volatile profile and phenolic compounds profiles from five wild edible mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus, Pleurotus ostreatus, Cantharellus cibarius, Boletus edulis, Lactarius piperatus) from Romania. The results indicated that the dried fruiting bodies of selected mushrooms were rich in proteins (36.24 g/100 g dw-Boletus edulis) and carbohydrates (62.45 g/100 g dw-Lactarius piperatus). 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid and cinnamic acid, were the main phenolic compound present in all selected species. Additionally, the fatty acid pattern included polyunsaturated acids in more than 60% of all fatty acids followed by monounsaturated fatty acids (30%). For the studied mushroom samples, the main volatile compounds identified by the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were hexanal, benzaldehyde and dodecanoic acid. According to the obtained results, the fruiting bodies of selected Romanian mushrooms are a rich source of bioactive molecules indicating that they may be further exploited as functional ingredients in the composition of innovative food products.

In Vitro Ecological Response of the Human Gut Microbiome to Bioactive Extracts from Edible Wild Mushrooms

This study presents the effect of two new products based on atomized extracts from edible wild mushrooms (RoBioMush1, RoBioMush2) on the microbiota of three target groups: clinically healthy (NG) individuals, individuals with nutritional disorders (ND), and individuals with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The microbiota fingerprints were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Modulations in the simulated microbiome were established and correlated with the presence of phenolic compounds released in the in vitro environment (a three-stage culture system GIS2 simulator, www.gissystems.ro). The high metabolizing capacity of NG and CVD correlated positively with the rest of the biological activities expressed in vitro. ND microbiota consumed a wide spectrum of monosaccharides from the products. Xylose was present in large quantities in the descending segment (minimum: 175 μg/mL for ND). The primary conclusion was that the microbiological ecosystem was modulated, as proven by the presence of specific biomarkers (e.g., ammonium levels and fingerprints of short-chain fatty acids–SCFAs), which stimulate the organism’s health status and were correlated with the restoration of a normal microbiota fingerprint.

Chemical and Bioactive Profiling, and Biological Activities of Coral Fungi from Northwestern Himalayas

Ramaria Fr. and Clavaria L. are the two major genera of coral mushrooms within families Gomphaceae and Clavariaceae, respectively. Besides having important role in forest ecology, some species of these are reported to possess high nutraceutical and bioactive potential. There is a hidden diversity of coral mushrooms in Northwestern Himalayas. Present studies describe the detailed biochemical profiling and antioxidant, and antibacterial activities of twelve coral mushroom species. Biochemical profiling of nutrients and nutraceuticals was done with standard techniques and by using HPLC, UPLC and GC. Experiments were also conducted to check the toxic metals detection. Antioxidant activities were calculated using EC50 values from mushroom extracts. Antibacterial activities were checked on six pathogenic bacterial strains through minimum inhibition concenterations. Although, differences were observed in the net values of individual species but all the species were found to be rich in protein, macro and micro minerals, carbohydrates, unsaturated fatty acids, essential amino acids, phenolics, tocopherols, anthocynadins and carotenoids. All the species showed significant antioxidant and antibacterial activities. These species are reported to free from heavy toxic metals. Present studies will open the way for their large scale commercial exploitations and use in pharmaceutical industries as antioxidant, antibacterial and nutraceutical constituents.

Bioactive capacity of some Romanian wild edible mushrooms consumed mainly by local communities

Wild edible mushrooms are considered as a cheap food source, but rich in bioactive compounds, especially in phenolic compounds. The purpose of the study was to determine the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity and the content of polyphenolcarboxylic acids in 10 species of mushrooms commonly used (consumed) in Romania and two controls. The effect against free radicals, lipid peroxidation and reducing power were determined. The antimicrobial effect was revealed on some strains with pathogenic effect by disk diffusion assay. The antioxidant capacity expressed in vitro was correlated both with the presence of the main polyphenolcarboxylic acids, and also with the presence of other bioactive molecules (flavonoids, carotenoid compounds, etc.).

Reactive oxygen species and antioxidant properties from mushrooms

Preventive medicine and food industry have shown an increased interest in the development of natural antioxidants, since those most commonly used synthetic antioxidants may have restricted use in food. This could explain why there is currently much research on the antioxidant properties from natural products such as mushrooms. Many mushrooms have been reported to possess antioxidant properties, which enable them to neutralize free radicals. The oxygen molecule is a free radical, which lead to the generation of the reactive oxygen species and can damage the cells. Cell damage caused by free radicals appears to be a major contributor to aging and degenerative diseases. Mushrooms antioxidant components are found in fruit bodies, mycelium and culture both, which include polysaccharides, tocopherols, phenolics, carotenoids, ergosterol and ascorbic acid among others. Fruit bodies or mycelium can be manipulated to produce active compounds in a relatively short period of time, which represent a significant advantage in antioxidant compounds extraction from mushrooms. Antioxidant compounds may be extracted to be used as functional additives or mushrooms can be incorporated into our food regime, representing an alternative source of food to prevent damage caused by oxidation in the human body.

Anti-hepatocarcinogenic and Anti-oxidant Effects of Mangrove Plant Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea

CONTEXT

Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea is a shrub mangrove plant of the family Rubiaceae and not yet been studied for anti-hepatocarcinogenic effects.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated possible in vitro anti-hepatocarcinogenic and antioxidant properties of S. hydrophyllacea.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dried leaves of S. hydrophyllacea were sequentially extracted into hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol and tested for cytotoxicity on HepG2 cells by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and sulforhodamine B assays, and for antioxidant activities by the free radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were estimated in all four extracts. The hexane and chloroform extracts were tested for pro-apoptotic properties in HepG2 cells, and bioactive components were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis.

RESULTS

The hexane and chloroform extracts showed dose-dependent and time-dependent cytotoxic effects. Morphological changes observed under fluorescence microscope related to apoptosis, and significant (P < 0.001) increases in caspase 3 and 9 levels were observed in hexane and chloroform extract-treated cells. Slight DNA fragmentation was observed only in response to the chloroform extract. mRNA expressions of p53 and Bax were significantly upregulated by low doses of hexane and chloroform extracts. Highest antioxidant activity was observed in the methanol extract. GC-MS profiles identified 24 and four major compounds in the hexane and chloroform extracts, respectively. These included some known anticancer compounds such as lupeol.

CONCLUSION

Cytotoxicity, antioxidant effects, and apoptosis-related changes exerted by hexane and chloroform extracts of S. hydrophyllacea concluded that these two extracts are good source for isolation of possible anticarcinogenic compounds.

SUMMARY

The hexane and chloroform extracts of Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea showed dose-dependent and time-dependent cytotoxic effects.Morphological changes related to apoptosis and significant (P < 0.001) increases in caspase 3 and 9 levels were observed in hexane and chloroform extract-treated cells.mRNA expressions of p53 and Bax were significantly upregulated by low doses of hexane and chloroform extracts.Highest antioxidant activity was observed in the methanol extract.GC-MS profiles identified 24 and four major compounds in the hexane and chloroform extracts, respectively. Abbreviation used: DPPH: 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl, ABTS: 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, GC-MS: gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, DNA: deoxyribonucleic acid, HCC: Hepatocellular carcinoma, GAE: gallic acid equivalents, SRB: sulforhodamine B, MTT: 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, AO/EB: acridine orange/ethidium bromide, GAPDH: Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, IC50: half maximal inhibitory concentration; QE: quercetin equivalents, HE: hexane extract, CE: chloroform extract, EAE: ethyl acetate extract, ME: methanolic extract, TPC: total polyphenol content, TFC: total flavonoid content, ANOVA: Analysis of variance.

Anthocyanin Attenuates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiomyotoxicity via Estrogen Receptor-α/β and Stabilizes HSF1 to Inhibit the IGF-IIR Apoptotic Pathway

Doxorubicin (Dox) is extensively used for chemotherapy in different types of cancer, but its use is limited to because of its cardiotoxicity. Our previous studies found that doxorubicin-induced insulin-like growth factor II receptor (IGF-IIR) accumulation causes cardiomyocytes apoptosis via down-regulation of HSF1 pathway. In these studies, we demonstrated a new mechanism through which anthocyanin protects cardiomyoblast cells against doxorubicin-induced injury. We found that anthocyanin decreased IGF-IIR expression via estrogen receptors and stabilized heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) to inhibit caspase 3 activation and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. Therefore, the phytoestrogen from plants has been considered as another potential treatment for heart failure. It has been reported that the natural compound anthocyanin (ACN) has the ability to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Here, we demonstrated that anthocyanin acts as a cardioprotective drug against doxorubicin-induced heart failure by attenuating cardiac apoptosis via estrogen receptors to stabilize HSF1 expression and down-regulated IGF-IIR-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis.

Boletus edulis Nitrite Reductase Reduces Nitrite Content of Pickles and Mitigates Intoxication in Nitrite-intoxicated Mice

Pickles are popular in China and exhibits health-promoting effects. However, nitrite produced during fermentation adversely affects health due to formation of methemoglobin and conversion to carcinogenic nitrosamine. Fruiting bodies of the mushroom Boletus edulis were capable of inhibiting nitrite production during pickle fermentation. A 90-kDa nitrite reductase (NiR), demonstrating peptide sequence homology to fungal nitrite reductase, was isolated from B. edulis fruiting bodies. The optimum temperature and pH of the enzyme was 45 °C and 6.8, respectively. B. edulis NiR was capable of prolonging the lifespan of nitrite-intoxicated mice, indicating that it had the action of an antidote. The enzyme could also eliminate nitrite from blood after intragastric administration of sodium nitrite, and after packaging into capsule, this nitrite-eliminating activity could persist for at least 120 minutes thus avoiding immediate gastric degradation. B. edulis NiR represents the first nitrite reductase purified from mushrooms and may facilitate subsequent applications.

Probiotic Strains Influence on Infant Microbiota in the In Vitro Colonic Fermentation Model GIS1

The main goal of our study was to evaluate the effect of the individual administration of five lyophilized lactic acid bacteria strains (Lactobacillus fermentum 428ST, Lactobacillus rhamnosus E4.2, Lactobacillus plantarum FCA3, Lactobacillus sp. 34.1, Weissella paramesenteroides FT1a) against the in vitro simulated microbiota of the human colon using the GIS1 system. The influence on the metabolic activity was also assessed by quantitative determination of proteins and polysaccharides at each segment of human colon. The obtained results indicated that the lactic acid bacteria L. rhamnosus E4.2 and W. paramesenteroides FTa1 had better efficiency in synthesising exopolysaccharides and also a better probiotic potential and therefore could be recommended for use in probiotics products or food industry.

Antioxidant capacity of several Iranian, wild and cultivated strains of the button mushroom

The white button mushroom, Agaricus bisporus, is the most commonly grown mushroom in Iran; however, there is a significant shortage of research on its antioxidant activity and other medicinal properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate antioxidant capacity of the methanolic extracts from four cultivated strains and four Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS)-identified, Iranian wild isolates of A. bisporus. Evaluations were made for total phenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins, and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity. Overall, results showed that all the wild isolates exhibited significantly lower DPPH-derived EC₅₀, compared to the cultivated strains (p < 0.05). A relatively high relationship was observed between total phenols and flavonoids or anthocyanins (r² > 0.60). However, these constituents could not statistically differentiate the group of wild samples from the cultivated ones, and there was low correlation with the DPPH-derived EC₅₀s (r² < 0.40). In conclusion, comparisons showed that wild isolate 4 and cultivated strains A15 and H1 had higher antioxidant capacity than the others (p < 0.05). This result identifies these mushrooms as good candidates for further investigation.