Anti-Microbiological, Anti-Hyperglycemic and Anti-Obesity Potency of Natural Antioxidants in Fruit Fractions of Saskatoon Berry

Antioxidant, Enzyme Inhibitory, and Protective Effect of Amelanchier lamarckii Extract

The present study aimed to investigate the chemical content of Romanian juneberries (Amelanchier lamarckii), their effect on antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities, and their bioaccessibility after simulated in-vitro digestion. In Amelanchier lamarckii extract (AME), 16 polyphenolic compounds were identified by LC-ESI+-MS analysis. The most representative compounds found in the extract were cyanidin-galactoside, 3,4-dihydroxy-5-methoxybenzoic acid, feruloylquinic acid, and kaempferol, all belonging to the anthocyanins, phenolic acids, and flavonols subclasses. The polyphenols of AME exert quenching abilities of harmful reactive oxygen species, as the CUPRAC antioxidant assay value was 323.99 µmol Trolox/g fruit (FW), whereas the FRAP antioxidant value was 4.10 μmol Fe2+/g fruit (FW). Enzyme inhibition assays targeting tyrosinase (IC50 = 8.843 mg/mL), α-glucosidase (IC50 = 14.03 mg/mL), and acetylcholinesterase (IC50 = 49.55 mg/mL) were used for a screening of AME's inhibitory potential against these key enzymes as a common approach for the discovery of potential antidiabetic, skin pigmentation, and neurodegenerative effects. The screening for the potential antidiabetic effects due to the α-glucosidase inhibition was performed in glucose-induced disease conditions in a human retinal pigmented epithelial cell experimental model, proving that AME could have protective potential. In conclusion, AME is a valuable source of phenolic compounds with promising antioxidant potential and metabolic disease-protective effects, warranting further investigation for its use in the nutraceutical and health industries.

In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion of Various Sweet Potato Leaves: Polyphenol Profiles, Bioaccessibility and Bioavailability Elucidation

The chemical composition discrepancies of five sweet potato leaves (SPLs) and their phenolic profile variations during in vitro digestion were investigated. The results indicated that Ecaishu No. 10 (EC10) provided better retention capacity for phenolic compounds after drying. Furthermore, polyphenols were progressively released from the matrix as the digestion process proceeded. The highest bioaccessibility of polyphenols was found in EC10 intestinal chyme at 48.47%. For its phenolic profile, 3-, 4-, and 5-monosubstituted caffeoyl quinic acids were 9.75%, 57.39%, and 79.37%, respectively, while 3,4-, 3,5-, and 4,5-disubstituted caffeoyl quinic acids were 6.55, 0.27 and 13.18%, respectively. In contrast, the 3,4-, 3,5-, 4,5-disubstituted caffeoylquinic acid in the intestinal fluid after dialysis bag treatment was 62.12%, 79.12%, and 62.98%, respectively, which resulted in relatively enhanced bioactivities (DPPH, 10.51 μmol Trolox/g; FRAP, 8.89 μmol Trolox/g; ORAC, 7.32 μmol Trolox/g; IC50 for α-amylase, 19.36 mg/g; IC50 for α-glucosidase, 25.21 mg/g). In summary, desirable phenolic acid release characteristics and bioactivity of EC10 were observed in this study, indicating that it has potential as a functional food ingredient, which is conducive to the exploitation of the sweet potato processing industry from a long-term perspective.

Tannat grape pomace as an ingredient for potential functional biscuits: bioactive compound identification, in vitro bioactivity, food safety, and sensory evaluation

Grape pomace, the main by-product of wine process, shows high potential for the development of functional foods, being a natural source of bioactive compounds and dietary fiber. Thus, the present study proposes the development of five potential functional biscuits. The five formulations were achieved by varying the Tannat grape pomace powder (TGP, 10-20% w/w total wet dough) and sweetener sucralose (2-4% w/w total wet dough) content through a factorial design with central points. TGP microbiological and pesticides analysis were performed as a food safety requirement. Identification of bioactive compounds by HPLC-DAD-MS, in vitro bioactivity (total phenol content, antioxidant by ABTS and ORAC-FL, antidiabetic and antiobesity by inhibition of α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase, respectively) and sensory properties of the biscuits were evaluated. TGP microbiological and pesticides showed values within food safety criteria. Sensory profiles of TGP biscuits were obtained, showing biscuits with 20% TGP good sensory quality (7.3, scale 1-9) in a cluster of 37 out of 101 consumers. TGP addition in biscuits had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on total phenolic content (0.893-1.858 mg GAE/g biscuit) and bioactive properties when compared to controls: 11.467-50.491 and 4.342-50.912 μmol TE/g biscuit for ABTS and ORAC-FL, respectively; inhibition of α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase, IC50 35.572-64.268 and 7.197-47.135 mg/mL, respectively. HPLC-DAD-MS results showed all the identified phenolic compounds in 20/4% biscuit (TGP/sucralose%) were degraded during baking. Malvidin-3-O-(6'-p-coumaroyl) glucoside, (+)-catechin, malvidin-3-O-glucoside, and (-)-epicatechin were the main phenolic compounds (in descendent order of content) found. The bioactive properties could be attributed to the remaining phenolic compounds in the biscuits. In conclusion, TGP biscuits seemed to be a promising functional food with potential for ameliorating oxidative stress, glucose and fatty acids levels with good sensory quality.

Anti-Diabetic Potential of Polyphenol-Rich Fruits from the Maleae Tribe-A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Animal and Human Trials

The Maleae tribe consists of over one thousand species, including many well-known polyphenol-containing fruit crops with wide-ranging biological properties, e.g., apples (Malus), chokeberries (Aronia), pears (Pyrus), quinces (Cydonia, Chaenomeles), saskatoon (Amelanchier), loquats (Eriobotrya), medlars (Mespilus), rowans (Sorbus), and hawthorns (Crataegus). Considering the current interest in the concept of functional foods and the still-insufficient methods of diabetes management, the anti-diabetic potential of fruits has been studied intensively, including those of the Maleae tribe. This paper is the first comprehensive overview of this selected topic, covering articles published from 2000 to 2023 (131 articles in total). The first part of this review focuses on the potential mechanisms of action of fruits investigated so far (46 species), including their effects on tissue-specific glucose transport and the expression or activity of proteins in the insulin signalling pathway. The second part covers the phytocompounds responsible for particular fruits' activity-primarily polyphenols (e.g., flavonols, dihydrochalcones, proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins, phenolic acids), but also polysaccharides, triterpenes, and their additive and synergistic effects. In summary, fruits from the Maleae tribe seem promising as functional foods and anti-diabetic agents; however, their prospects for more expansive pro-health application require further research, especially more profound in vivo trials.

Nuts and berries from agroforestry systems in temperate regions can form the foundation for a healthier human diet and improved outcomes from diet-related diseases

Agroforestry is a specific type of agroecosystem that includes trees and shrubs with the potential to yield nutrient-rich products that contribute to human health. This paper reviews the literature on the human health benefits of tree nut and berry species commonly associated with agroforestry systems of the United States, considering their potential for preventing certain diet-related diseases. Emphasis is placed on those diseases that are most closely associated with poor outcomes from COVID-19, as they are indicators of confounding health prognoses. Results indicate that tree nuts reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, and walnuts (Juglans species) are particularly effective because of their unique fatty acid profile. Berries that are grown on shrubs have the potential to contribute to mitigation of hypertension, prevention of Type II diabetes, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. To optimize human health benefits, plant breeding programs can focus on the traits that enhance the naturally-occurring phytochemicals, through biofortification. Value-added processing techniques should be selected and employed to preserve the phytonutrients, so they are maintained through the point of consumption. Agroforestry systems can offer valuable human health outcomes for common diet-related diseases, in addition to providing many environmental benefits, particularly if they are purposefully designed with that goal in mind. The food system policies in the U.S. might be reoriented to prioritize these food production systems based on the health benefits.

Correlational nutritional relationships and interactions between expansive holoparasite Orobanche laxissima and woody hosts on metal-rich soils

Plant parasitism by other plants, combined with abiotic environmental stress, offers a unique opportunity to study correlational nutritional relationships in terms of parasite-host interactions and their functional roles in nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Our study analysed the transfer of selected mineral elements, including heavy metals, from soil to different organs in hosts (Punica granatum and Fraxinus angustifolia) and from hosts to the expansive holoparasite (Orobanche laxissima) in cinnamonic soil habitats in Georgia (Caucasus). We also identified other correlated trophic and bioactive effects in the parasite-host relationship. O. laxissima was characterized by a high accumulation tendency for micro- and macroelements, such as K and Ca, and heavy metals, such as Zn, Ni, and Cd. Parasites can reduce the concentration of heavy metals in host tissues owing to this high accumulation tendency. In total, 85 compounds were identified in the examined parasite and its hosts. Despite the distinct phytochemical content of species of the infected host, the parasite produced specific metabolites with dominant phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs), with acteoside and crenatoside being the primary dominant compounds - ca. 98% of all polyphenols. Polyphenols in parasite specimens that are correlated with Cu and Zn are antagonistic to polyphenols correlated with Fe, Pb, Cr, and Ni. The profile of polyphenols in the host species was both qualitatively and quantitatively distinct from the profile of the compounds in the parasite and between hosts (only acteoside in group PhGs was common between the parasite and Fraxinus host), which indicates the existence of a unique compound biosynthesis pathway in the parasite. Our results demonstrated that the parasite, particularly in its flowers, exhibited higher polyphenol content, antioxidative effects (ABTS-+, DPPH, and FRAP), and inhibitory effects.

Phytochemical Profiling in Conjunction with In Vitro and In Silico Studies to Identify Human α-Amylase Inhibitors in Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) De Wit for the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus

Bioactive constituents from natural sources are of great interest as alternatives to synthetic compounds for the treatment of various diseases, including diabetes mellitus. In the present study, phytochemicals present in Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) De Wit leaves were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and further examined by qualitative and quantitative methods. α-Amylase enzyme activity assays were performed and revealed that L. leucocephala (Lam.) De Wit leaf extract inhibited enzyme activity in a dose-dependent manner, with efficacy similar to that of the standard α-amylase inhibitor acarbose. To determine which phytochemicals were involved in α-amylase enzyme inhibition, in silico virtual screening of the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity properties was performed and pharmacophore dynamics were assessed. We identified hexadecenoic acid and oleic acid ((Z)-octadec-9-enoic acid) as α-amylase inhibitors. The binding stability of α-amylase to those two fatty acids was confirmed in silico by molecular docking and a molecular dynamics simulation performed for 100 ns. Together, our findings indicate that L. leucocephala (Lam.) De Wit-derived hexadecanoic acid and oleic acid are natural product-based antidiabetic compounds that can potentially be used to manage diabetes mellitus.

Health-Promoting Capacities of In Vitro and Cultivated Goji (Lycium chinense Mill.) Fruit and Leaves; Polyphenols, Antimicrobial Activity, Macro- and Microelements and Heavy Metals

There is a growing interest among the public in fruit with a positive impact on human health. Two goji berry cultivars (‘No. 1’ and ‘New Big’) were propagated in vitro, grown in an orchard and then evaluated for macro- and microelements and harmful heavy metals (i.e., Pb, Ni, and Cd). The leaves and fruit were also assessed for nutritional value, polyphenols and the antimicrobial activity of the leaves. ‘New Big’ was characterized by a higher content of macro elements in the leaves (in vitro and orchard) and a higher content of microelements in the fruit. The harmful substances content was below the minimum value. Furthermore, neither the fruit nor the leaves contained cadmium. This study also indicated that leaves had a higher content of polyphenols compared to the fruit. The fruits were characterized by their health-promoting capacities, while the leaves were characterized by their antibacterial activity. Among the Gram-positive bacteria, the most sensitive strain was Bacillus subtilis, and among the Gram-negative bacteria, it was Proteus vulgaris. Taking into consideration the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for minerals, goji berries can be declared to be a source of Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn and P.

The impact of cultivation systems on the nutritional and phytochemical content, and microbiological contamination of highbush blueberry

The aim of this study was to compare the nutritional and use value of berries grown in organic and conventional systems. The polyphenol content, fruit colour and firmness, and yeast, mould, and mycotoxin contents were assessed in blueberry fruit freshly harvested and stored for 8 weeks in controlled conditions (CA: CO₂-12%; O₂-1.5%, temperature 1.5 °C). The Shannon–Wiener diversity index was comparable in both systems and was lower for mould in organic fruit than in conventional fruit. Mycotoxins (deoxynivalenol, zearalenone) were found only in organic fruits. The optimal mineral content and pH of the soil allowed the cultivation of blueberry in accordance with organic standards. The storage of highbush blueberry fruit in CA cold storage for 8 weeks resulted in a slight deterioration in fruit quality and polyphenol content. The lower nutritional value of these fruits is compensated by the lack of pesticides and artificial fertilizers residues. The use of fungicides in conventional cultivation reduces the population of sensitive fungi and therefore reduces the contamination of fruits with mycotoxins.

Biological activity, phytochemical parameters, and potential bioaccessibility of wheat bread enriched with powder and microcapsules made from Saskatoon berry

The aim of the present study was to determine the impact of Saskatoon powder addition on phytochemical parameters, biological activity, and nutritional value of wheat bread. Supplementation increased phenolics content up to 72% in the bread with 6% powder content. This increase was reflected in the improved antioxidative properties of breads, especially after their supplementation with the microencapsulated additives (an increase by 93% in the bread enriched with 6% of powder covered with maltodextrin). The in vitro digestion released the antioxidative compounds, leading to higher bioaccessibility of the breads enriched with the microencapsulated powders. The highest inhibition of activities of cyclooxygenase 1 and -2, as well as amylase and glucosidase was recorded for the breads enriched with the additive microencapsulated with maltodextrin and inulin. Thus, Saskatoon berry powders, especially the microencapsulated ones, may be used as functional components in designing innovative bakery products.

Improvement of Health-Promoting Functionality of Rye Bread by Fortification with Free and Microencapsulated Powders from Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt

This study established the appropriate amounts of a functional Saskatoon berry fruit powder in fortified rye bread acceptable to consumers and determined the potential relative bioaccesibility of bioactive compounds exhibiting antioxidant activity, and enzymatic in vitro inhibitory activity against lipoxygenase, cyclooxigenase-1, cyclooxigenase-2, acetylcholinesterase, pancreatic lipase α-glucosidase, and α-amylase, as well as the relative digestibility of nutrients. The content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant capability were strongly, positively correlated with the content of the functional additive. The highest phenolics content and antioxidant activity were determined in the products enriched with the powders microencapsulated with maltodextrin (an increase by 91% and 53%, respectively, compared with the control). The highest overall acceptability was shown for the products with 3% addition of the functional additive, regardless of its type. The simulated in vitro digestion released phenols (with the highest bioaccessibility shown for anthocyanins) and enhanced the antioxidant activity of rye bread. In turn, the microencapsulation contributed to the improvement in the relative bioaccesibility of antioxidant compounds. Bread fortification led to an increased inhibitory activity against α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and lipoxygenase. Furthermore, the additive microencapsulated with maltodextrin and inulin improved the capacity to inhibit the activities of pancreatic lipase and cyclooxigenase-2. The results presented allowed concluding that the powders from Saskatoon berry fruits, especially microencapsulated ones, may be a promising functional additive dedicated for the enrichment of rye bread.

Comparison of Morphological, Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Properties of Goji Fruits

There is a growing public interest in fruits labeled as „superfood” (functional food). A “superfood” should have a high content of bioactive substances with a positive impact on human health. Seven different cultivars of goji berry fruits (Lycium chinense Mill.) grown in north-western Poland were evaluated for its physicochemical parameters, antidiabetic and antioxidant activity, and polyphenol content. The length of 1-year-old shoots ranged from 36 cm (‘Big Lifeberry’) to 82 cm (‘Korean Big’). Cultivars from the group of Big were characterized by the biggest fruits (17.3-24.2 mm) with the greatest weight of 100 fruits (96.7­122.1 g). ‘Big Lifeberry’ contained high amounts of L-ascorbic acid (408 mg 1000/g) and provitamin A (190 mg 1000/g) and showed high antidiabetic (α-amylase IC50=33.4 mg/mL; α-glucosidase IC50=9.9 mg/mL) and antioxidant activity (ABTS·+ 6.21 and FRAP 5.58 mmol T/100 g). ‘Big Lifeberry’ was also characterized by a high total content of polyphenols (43.64 mg 100/g). Furthermore, the nitrite content in all the cultivars tested was at a relatively low level. Among the examined cultivars, the most attractive one concerning the consumers’ point of view of the size, weight and high content of health-promoting compounds is ‘Big Lifeberry’.

Saskatoon Berry Amelanchier alnifolia Regulates Glucose Metabolism and Improves Cardiovascular and Liver Signs of Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rats

Saskatoon berry (Amelanchier alnifolia) is a potential functional food containing anthocyanins and flavonols, as well as ellagitannins and phenolic acids. We have determined the potential therapeutic effects of Saskatoon berry in diet-induced metabolic syndrome. Nine- to ten-week-old male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups. Two groups were fed on control diets, either corn starch (C) or high-carbohydrate, high-fat diet (H) respectively, for 16 weeks. Two further groups were fed on C or H diet for 16 weeks with Saskatoon berry powder added to the diet for the final 8 weeks (CSSK, HSSK). After 16 weeks, H rats showed symptoms of metabolic syndrome, including increased body weight, visceral adiposity, systolic blood pressure, cardiac fibrosis, plasma concentrations of triglycerides and non-esterified fatty acids, and plasma activities of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase. Saskatoon berry intervention normalised body weight and adiposity, improved glucose tolerance, decreased systolic blood pressure, improved heart and liver structure and function with decreased infiltration of inflammatory cells, and decreased plasma total cholesterol. Further, Saskatoon berry normalised liver expression of hexokinase 1 and glycogen phosphorylase and increased glucose 6-phosphatase relative to H rats. These results suggest that Saskatoon berry regulates glycolysis, gluconeogenesis and glycogenesis to improve metabolic syndrome.