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Abbasi Moajani F, Soozangar N, Amani M, Jeddi F, Salimnejad R, Aslani MR. The suppressive effects of crocin from saffron on allergic airway inflammation through Drp1/Nfr1/Mfn2/Pgc1-alpha signaling pathway in mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 337:118862. [PMID: 39326816 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 09/21/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Saffron is derived from the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., which was considered by ancient nations for food and medicinal purposes. In traditional medicine, the therapeutic use of Crocus sativus includes antispasmodic, antitussive and expectorant. AIM OF THE STUDY Mitochondrial fusion, fission, biogenesis, and mitophagy are essential processes for maintaining mitochondrial dynamics in response to cellular stress. The primary objective of this research was to examine how crocin affected the levels of important mitochondrial regulators, including Drp1, Pgc1α, Nrf1, and Mfn2, in the lung tissue of ovalbumin-sensitized mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of fifty male BALB/C mice were randomly assigned to five unique groups (n = 10 for each group), including the control group, ovalbumin-sensitized group (OVA), OVA group treated with 30 mg/kg of crocin, OVA group treated with 60 mg/kg of crocin, and OVA group treated with 1 mg/kg of dexamethasone. Post-sensitization and ovalbumin challenge, mice lung tissues were evaluated for the expression of Drp1, Pgc1α, Nrf1, and Mfn2 mRNA levels using real-time PCR as well as histopathological assessments. RESULTS In the OVA group, there was a significant elevated in inflammatory cells such as eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes; however, crocin (both concentrations) and dexamethasone intervention showed significant inhibitory effects (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001). Moreover, an increase in the expression of Drp1, Pgc1α, and Nrf1 levels was seen in the OVA group, while crocin and dexamethasone showed protective benefits (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001). Furthermore, the levels of Mfn2 were reduced in the lung tissue of mice exposed to ovalbumin, but this decrease was reversed by crocin 60 (P < 0.05) and dexamethasone treatment (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION In mice with OVA sensitization, the balance of mitochondrial dynamics in lung tissue was disrupted, but intervention of crocin identified to have a protective effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Abbasi Moajani
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Narges Soozangar
- Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Mojtaba Amani
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Farhad Jeddi
- Department of Genetics and Pathology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Ramin Salimnejad
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Reza Aslani
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran; Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
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Frusciante L, Geminiani M, Shabab B, Olmastroni T, Scavello G, Rossi M, Mastroeni P, Nyong'a CN, Salvini L, Lamponi S, Parisi ML, Sinicropi A, Costa L, Spiga O, Trezza A, Santucci A. Exploring the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Saffron ( Crocus sativus) Tepals Extract within the Circular Bioeconomy. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:1082. [PMID: 39334741 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13091082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Repurposing saffron (Crocus sativus) waste presents a sustainable strategy for generating high-value products within the bioeconomy framework. Typically, flower components are discarded after stigma harvest, resulting in significant waste-350 kg of tepals per kilogram of stigmas. This research employed a comprehensive approach, integrating bioactivity studies (in vitro and in silico) with Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluations, to extract and assess bioactive compounds from C. sativus tepals sourced in Tuscany, Italy. Phytochemical characterization using UPLC-MS/MS revealed a high abundance and variety of flavonoids in the hydro-ethanolic extract (CST). The antioxidant capacity was validated through various assays, and the ability to mitigate H2O2-induced oxidative stress and enhance fermentation was demonstrated in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This study reports that C. sativus tepals extract reduces oxidative stress and boosts ethanol fermentation in yeast, paving the way for applications in the food and biofuels sectors. Further validation in RAW 264.7 macrophages confirmed CST's significant anti-inflammatory effects, indicating its potential for pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical, and nutraceutical applications. In silico studies identified potential targets involved in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory processes, shedding light on possible interaction mechanisms with Kaempferol 3-O-sophoroside (KOS-3), the predominant compound in the extract. The integration of LCA studies highlighted the environmental benefits of this approach. Overall, this research underscores the value of using waste-derived extracts through "green" methodologies, offering a model that may provide significant advantages for further evaluations compared to traditional methodologies and supporting the circular bioeconomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Frusciante
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Michela Geminiani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SienabioACTIVE, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Behnaz Shabab
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Olmastroni
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Scavello
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Martina Rossi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Mastroeni
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Collins Nyaberi Nyong'a
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Laura Salvini
- Fondazione Toscana Life Sciences, Strada del Petriccio e Belriguardo, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Stefania Lamponi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SienabioACTIVE, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Parisi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
- LifeCARES, Via Emilio Vezzosi 15, 52100 Arezzo, Italy
| | - Adalgisa Sinicropi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
- LifeCARES, Via Emilio Vezzosi 15, 52100 Arezzo, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Costa
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Ottavia Spiga
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
- ARTES 4.0, Viale Rinaldo Piaggio, 34, 56025 Pontedera, Italy
| | - Alfonso Trezza
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Annalisa Santucci
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Chimica e Farmacia, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SienabioACTIVE, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro, 53100 Siena, Italy
- ARTES 4.0, Viale Rinaldo Piaggio, 34, 56025 Pontedera, Italy
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Criado-Navarro I, Ledesma-Escobar CA, Pérez-Juan P, Priego-Capote F. Distribution of Main Bioactive Compounds from Saffron Species as a Function of Infusion Temperature and Time in an Oil/Water System. Molecules 2024; 29:3080. [PMID: 38999032 PMCID: PMC11243231 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29133080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Most research on saffron has focused on its composition and beneficial effects, while the culinary perspective to enhance its gastronomic potential remains unexplored. This study aims to define the transfer of the main compounds responsible for color, flavor, and aromatic properties, evaluating three critical variables: temperature (60 °C, 80 °C and 100 °C), infusion time (ranging from 10 to 30 min), and the composition of the medium (water, oil, and water/oil). Samples were analyzed using the LC-QTOF MS/MS and ISO 3632-1:2011 methods. The major compounds were crocins, including trans-crocin and picrocrocin. Among the flavonoids, kaempferol 3-O-sophoroside stands out. Regarding extraction conditions, crocins, glycoside flavonoids, and picrocrocin were enhanced in water, the former in 100% water and at low temperatures, while picrocrocin proved to be the most stable compound with extraction favored at high temperatures. The variable with the greatest incidence of picrocrocin isolation seemed to be the concentration of water since water/oil compositions reported higher concentrations. Safranal and kaempferol were enriched in the oil phase and at lower temperatures. This study provides a chemical interpretation for the appropriate gastronomic use of saffron according to its versatility. Finally, the determination of safranal using the ISO method did not correlate with that obtained using chromatography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inmaculada Criado-Navarro
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
- Chemical Institute for Energy and Environment (iQUEMA), University of Córdoba, 14014 Córdoba, Spain
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), Reina Sofía University Hospital, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
- CIBER of Frailty and Healthy Ageing (CIBERFES), Carlos III Health Institute, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Augusto Ledesma-Escobar
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
- Chemical Institute for Energy and Environment (iQUEMA), University of Córdoba, 14014 Córdoba, Spain
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), Reina Sofía University Hospital, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
- CIBER of Frailty and Healthy Ageing (CIBERFES), Carlos III Health Institute, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro Pérez-Juan
- Azafrán de La Mancha Protected Designation of Origin Regulatory Council, 45720 Camuñas, Spain
| | - Feliciano Priego-Capote
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain
- Chemical Institute for Energy and Environment (iQUEMA), University of Córdoba, 14014 Córdoba, Spain
- Maimónides Institute of Biomedical Research (IMIBIC), Reina Sofía University Hospital, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain
- CIBER of Frailty and Healthy Ageing (CIBERFES), Carlos III Health Institute, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Pourmousavi L, Asadi RH, Zehsaz F, Jadidi RP. Potential therapeutic effects of crocin. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03131-6. [PMID: 38758225 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03131-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Crocin, a natural bioactive compound derived from saffron (Crocus sativus) and other Crocus genera, has gained significant attention recently due to its potential therapeutic properties. The multifaceted nature of crocin's biological effects has piqued the interest of researchers and health enthusiasts, prompting further investigations into its mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications. This review article comprehensively explores the emerging evidence supporting crocin's role as a promising ally in protecting against metabolic disorders. The review covers the molecular mechanisms underlying crocin's beneficial effects and highlights its potential applications in preventing and treating diverse pathological conditions. Understanding the mechanisms through which crocin exerts its protective effects could advance scientific knowledge and offer potential avenues for developing novel therapeutic interventions. As we uncover the potential of crocin as a valuable ally in the fight against disorders, it becomes evident that nature's palette holds remarkable solutions for enhancing our health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laleh Pourmousavi
- Department of Sport Sciences, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Farzad Zehsaz
- Department of Sport Sciences, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
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Abou Fayssal S, Kumar P, Popescu SM, Khanday MUD, Sardar H, Ahmad R, Gupta D, Kumar Gaur S, Alharby HF, Al-Ghamdi AG. Health risk assessment of heavy metals in saffron ( Crocus sativus L.) cultivated in domestic wastewater and lake water irrigated soils. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27138. [PMID: 38455530 PMCID: PMC10918222 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Irrigation of crops with domestic wastewater (DW) is a common practice in developing countries like India. However, domestic wastewater irrigation poses a risk of migration of toxic heavy metals to edible parts of crops, which requires serious measures to prevent their uptake. In this study, the effect of DW irrigation in comparison with Sarbal Lake water (SLW) and borewell water (BW) on soil characteristics and cultivated saffron (Crocus sativus L.) was investigated. For this purpose, samples of water, soil, and saffron (corm, petal, and stigma) were collected from the suburban area of Pampore, Srinagar district, Jammu and Kashmir, India. The results showed that DW irrigation had the maximum significant (p < 0.05) influence on the physico-chemical and nutrient characteristics of the soil, followed by SLW and BW irrigation, respectively. The growth and yield parameters of saffron were also significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the case of DW irrigation as compared to SLW and BW. The quality ranking of the cultivated saffron was found to be in accordance with the ISO standard (III: BW and II: DW and SLW). On the other hand, DW irrigation showed a significant increase in heavy metal contents (mg/kg) of saffron plant parts such as As (0.21-0.40), Cd (0.04-0.09), Cr (0.16-0.41), Cu (7.31-14. 75), Fe (142.38-303.15), Pb (0.18-0.31), Mn (15.26-22.81), Hg (0.18-0.25), Ni (0.74-1.18), Se (0.13-0.22), and Zn (3.44-4.59), followed by SLW and BW. However, the levels of heavy metals did not exceed the FAO/WHO safe limits. Bioaccumulation factor (BAF), dietary intake modeling (DIM<0.006496), health risk assessment (HRI<0.028571), and target hazard quotient (THQ<1) analyses showed no potential health hazard associated with the consumption of saffron irrigated with DW and SLW. Therefore, the results of this study provide valuable insights into the optimization of irrigation sources for saffron cultivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Abou Fayssal
- Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agronomy, University of Forestry, 10 Kliment Ohridski Blvd, 1797 Sofia, Bulgaria
- Department of Plant Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Lebanese University, Beirut 1302, Lebanon
| | - Pankaj Kumar
- Agroecology and Pollution Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology and Environmental Science, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to Be University), Haridwar 249404, Uttarakhand, India
- Research and Development Division, Society for AgroEnvironmental Sustainability, Dehradun 248007, India
| | - Simona M. Popescu
- Department of Biology and Environmental Engineering, University of Craiova, A.I. Cuza 13, 200585 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mehraj ud-din Khanday
- Division of Soil Science, Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Kashmir 190025, India
| | - Hasan Sardar
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Riaz Ahmad
- Department of Horticulture, The University of Agriculture, Dera Ismail Khan 29111, Pakistan
| | - Deep Gupta
- College of Smart Agriculture, COER University, Roorkee 247667, India
| | | | - Hesham F. Alharby
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Plant Biology Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah G. Al-Ghamdi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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Zhou J, Huang D, Liu C, Hu Z, Li H, Lou S. Research Progress in Heterologous Crocin Production. Mar Drugs 2023; 22:22. [PMID: 38248646 PMCID: PMC10820313 DOI: 10.3390/md22010022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Crocin is one of the most valuable components of the Chinese medicinal plant Crocus sativus and is widely used in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. Traditional planting of C. sativus is unable to fulfill the increasing demand for crocin in the global market, however, such that researchers have turned their attention to the heterologous production of crocin in a variety of hosts. At present, there are reports of successful heterologous production of crocin in Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, microalgae, and plants that do not naturally produce crocin. Of these, the microalga Dunaliella salina, which produces high levels of β-carotene, the substrate for crocin biosynthesis, is worthy of attention. This article describes the biosynthesis of crocin, compares the features of each heterologous host, and clarifies the requirements for efficient production of crocin in microalgae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Zhou
- College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (J.Z.); (D.H.); (C.L.); (Z.H.); (H.L.)
| | - Danqiong Huang
- College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (J.Z.); (D.H.); (C.L.); (Z.H.); (H.L.)
| | - Chenglong Liu
- College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (J.Z.); (D.H.); (C.L.); (Z.H.); (H.L.)
| | - Zhangli Hu
- College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (J.Z.); (D.H.); (C.L.); (Z.H.); (H.L.)
- Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Hui Li
- College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (J.Z.); (D.H.); (C.L.); (Z.H.); (H.L.)
- Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Sulin Lou
- College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (J.Z.); (D.H.); (C.L.); (Z.H.); (H.L.)
- Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
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Mena-García A, Sanz ML, Díez-Municio M, Ruiz-Matute AI. A Combined Gas and Liquid Chromatographic Approach for Quality Evaluation of Saffron-Based Food Supplements. Foods 2023; 12:4071. [PMID: 38002129 PMCID: PMC10670060 DOI: 10.3390/foods12224071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the interest in the bioactive properties of saffron (Crocus sativus L.), as well as its limited production and high price, saffron-based food supplements (SFS) are highly susceptible to adulteration. However, their complex composition and the wide variety of potential fraudulent practices make the comprehensive assessment of SFS quality a challenging task that has been scarcely addressed. To that aim, a new multianalytical strategy based on gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography with diode array detection coupled to mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS) was developed and validated in order to detect different frauds affecting SFS. Dried saffron stigmas and a commercial standardized saffron extract (affron®) were selected as reference samples (RS) to obtain an authenticity profile, which was further used to evaluate the quality of 17 SFS. Up to 17 crocins and crocetins, 5 kaempferol glycosides, picrocrocin (determined for the first time by GC-MS), safranal, furanone and isophorone-related compounds were determined in RS. Safranal and crocins were identified in all SFS except for one sample. However, discrepancies with the content declared were detected in 65% of the cases. Moreover, this multianalytical methodology also allowed identifying undeclared additives and the non-declared addition of vegetable sources other than saffron.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adal Mena-García
- Instituto de Química Orgánica General (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain; (A.M.-G.); (A.I.R.-M.)
- Pharmactive Biotech Products, S.L.U. Faraday 7, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
| | - María L. Sanz
- Instituto de Química Orgánica General (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain; (A.M.-G.); (A.I.R.-M.)
| | | | - Ana I. Ruiz-Matute
- Instituto de Química Orgánica General (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain; (A.M.-G.); (A.I.R.-M.)
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Ronsisvalle S, Panico A, Santonocito D, Siciliano EA, Sipala F, Montenegro L, Puglia C. Evaluation of Crocin Content and In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Glycation Activity of Different Saffron Extracts. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3606. [PMID: 37896069 PMCID: PMC10610346 DOI: 10.3390/plants12203606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Crocin, a glycoside carotenoid that exhibits several health benefits, is mainly obtained from saffron (Crocus sativus L.), whose quality and content of phytochemicals can be strongly affected by environmental conditions. Therefore, in this work, the crocin content and in vitro antioxidant activity of saffron extracts obtained from three different varieties (Greek, Sicilian, and Iranian saffron) were assessed. Crocin content in saffron extracts was quantified via ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The antioxidant activity of saffron extracts was evaluated using the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay and nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging test. The Maillard reaction was used to assess anti-glycation activity. Although the Sicilian and Iranian saffron extracts contained higher amounts of crocin (128 ± 6 ng/mL and 126 ± 4 ng/mL, respectively) compared to the Greek extracts (111 ± 2 ng/mL), ORAC values (50.9 ± 0.5) and % NO inhibition (35.2 ± 0.2) were higher for the Greek variety, which displayed a total phenolic content about two-fold greater than that of the other two extracts. Sicilian and Greek saffron had similar anti-glycation activities, while Iranian saffron was less effective. These results suggest that the antioxidant activity of saffron extracts could be ascribed to their naturally occurring complex mixture of phytochemicals, deserving further investigation as supplements to prevent pathological conditions induced by radical species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Ronsisvalle
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Annamaria Panico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Debora Santonocito
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
- NANOMED-Research Center on Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Edy Angela Siciliano
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Federica Sipala
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Lucia Montenegro
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
- NANOMED-Research Center on Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Carmelo Puglia
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
- NANOMED-Research Center on Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
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El Hani O, García-Guzmán JJ, Palacios-Santander JM, Digua K, Amine A, Gharby S, Cubillana-Aguilera L. Geographical Classification of Saffron ( Crocus Sativus L.) Using Total and Synchronous Fluorescence Combined with Chemometric Approaches. Foods 2023; 12:1747. [PMID: 37174286 PMCID: PMC10178536 DOI: 10.3390/foods12091747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in food science for high-quality natural products with a distinct geographical origin, such as saffron. In this work, the excitation-emission matrix (EEM) and synchronous fluorescence were used for the first time to geographically discriminate between Moroccan saffron from Taroudant, Ouarzazate, and Azilal. Moreover, to differentiate between Afghan, Iranian, and Moroccan saffron, a unique fingerprint was assigned to each sample by visualizing the EEM physiognomy. Moreover, principal component analysis (LDA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) were successfully applied to classify the synchronous spectra of samples. High fluorescence intensities were registered for Ouarzazate and Taroudant saffron. Yet, the Azilal saffron was distinguished by its low intensities. Furthermore, Moroccan, Afghan, and Iranian saffron were correctly assigned to their origins using PCA and LDA for different offsets (Δλ) (20-250 nm) such that the difference in the fluorescence composition of the three countries' saffron was registered in the following excitation/emission ranges: 250-325 nm/300-480 nm and 360-425 nm/500-550 nm. These regions are characterized by the high polyphenolic content of Moroccan saffron and the important composition of Afghan saffron, including vitamins and terpenoids. However, weak intensities of these compounds were found in Iranian saffron. Furthermore, a substantial explained variance (97-100% for PC1 and PC2) and an important classification rate (70-90%) were achieved. Thus, the non-destructive applied methodology of discrimination was rapid, straightforward, reliable, and accurate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ouarda El Hani
- Laboratory of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Hassan II University of Casablanca, P.A. 149, Mohammedia 28810, Morocco; (O.E.H.)
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Research on Electron Microscopy and Materials (IMEYMAT), Faculty of Sciences, Campus de Excelencia Internacional del Mar (CEIMAR), University of Cadiz, Campus Universitario de Puerto Real, Polígono del Río San Pedro S/N, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain; (J.J.G.-G.)
| | - Juan José García-Guzmán
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Research on Electron Microscopy and Materials (IMEYMAT), Faculty of Sciences, Campus de Excelencia Internacional del Mar (CEIMAR), University of Cadiz, Campus Universitario de Puerto Real, Polígono del Río San Pedro S/N, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain; (J.J.G.-G.)
| | - José María Palacios-Santander
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Research on Electron Microscopy and Materials (IMEYMAT), Faculty of Sciences, Campus de Excelencia Internacional del Mar (CEIMAR), University of Cadiz, Campus Universitario de Puerto Real, Polígono del Río San Pedro S/N, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain; (J.J.G.-G.)
| | - Khalid Digua
- Laboratory of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Hassan II University of Casablanca, P.A. 149, Mohammedia 28810, Morocco; (O.E.H.)
| | - Aziz Amine
- Laboratory of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Hassan II University of Casablanca, P.A. 149, Mohammedia 28810, Morocco; (O.E.H.)
| | - Said Gharby
- Biotechnology Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir 80000, Morocco
| | - Laura Cubillana-Aguilera
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Research on Electron Microscopy and Materials (IMEYMAT), Faculty of Sciences, Campus de Excelencia Internacional del Mar (CEIMAR), University of Cadiz, Campus Universitario de Puerto Real, Polígono del Río San Pedro S/N, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain; (J.J.G.-G.)
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Dobrek L, Głowacka K. Depression and Its Phytopharmacotherapy-A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:4772. [PMID: 36902200 PMCID: PMC10003400 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is a mental health disorder that develops as a result of complex psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinological disturbances. This disease presents with mood disturbances, persistent sadness, loss of interest and impaired cognition, which causes distress to the patient and significantly affects the ability to function and have a satisfying family, social and professional life. Depression requires comprehensive management, including pharmacological treatment. Because pharmacotherapy of depression is a long-term process associated with the risk of numerous adverse drug effects, much attention is paid to alternative therapy methods, including phytopharmacotherapy, especially in treating mild or moderate depression. Preclinical studies and previous clinical studies confirm the antidepressant activity of active compounds in plants, such as St. John's wort, saffron crocus, lemon balm and lavender, or less known in European ethnopharmacology, roseroot, ginkgo, Korean ginseng, borage, brahmi, mimosa tree and magnolia bark. The active compounds in these plants exert antidepressive effects in similar mechanisms to those found in synthetic antidepressants. The description of phytopharmacodynamics includes inhibiting monoamine reuptake and monoamine oxidase activity and complex, agonistic or antagonistic effects on multiple central nervous system (CNS) receptors. Moreover, it is noteworthy that the anti-inflammatory effect is also important to the antidepressant activity of the plants mentioned above in light of the hypothesis that immunological disorders of the CNS are a significant pathogenetic factor of depression. This narrative review results from a traditional, non-systematic literature review. It briefly discusses the pathophysiology, symptomatology and treatment of depression, with a particular focus on the role of phytopharmacology in its treatment. It provides the mechanisms of action revealed in experimental studies of active ingredients isolated from herbal antidepressants and presents the results of selected clinical studies confirming their antidepressant effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Dobrek
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
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Frattaruolo L, Marra F, Lauria G, Siciliano C, Curcio R, Muto L, Brindisi M, Aiello D, Napoli A, Fiermonte G, Cappello AR, Fiorillo M, Ahmed A, Dolce V. A Picrocrocin-Enriched Fraction from a Saffron Extract Affects Lipid Homeostasis in HepG2 Cells through a Non-Statin-like Mode. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3060. [PMID: 36834472 PMCID: PMC9965904 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dyslipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder associated with the loss of the physiological homeostasis that ensures safe levels of lipids in the organism. This metabolic disorder can trigger pathological conditions such as atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. In this regard, statins currently represent the main pharmacological therapy, but their contraindications and side effects limit their use. This is stimulating the search for new therapeutic strategies. In this work, we investigated in HepG2 cells the hypolipidemic potential of a picrocrocin-enriched fraction, analyzed by high-resolution 1H NMR and obtained from a saffron extract, the stigmas of Crocus sativus L., a precious spice that has already displayed interesting biological properties. Spectrophotometric assays, as well as expression level of the main enzymes involved in lipid metabolism, have highlighted the interesting hypolipidemic effects of this natural compound; they seem to be exerted through a non-statin-like mechanism. Overall, this work provides new insights into the metabolic effects of picrocrocin, thus confirming the biological potential of saffron and paving the way for in vivo studies that could validate this spice or its phytocomplexes as useful adjuvants in balancing blood lipid homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Frattaruolo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Federica Marra
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Graziantonio Lauria
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Carlo Siciliano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Rosita Curcio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Luigina Muto
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Matteo Brindisi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Donatella Aiello
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technologies, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Anna Napoli
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Technologies, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Fiermonte
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Cappello
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Marco Fiorillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Amer Ahmed
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Vincenza Dolce
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
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Varzakas T. Implementation of Chemometrics and Other Techniques as Means of Authenticity and Traceability to Detect Adulteration in Foods for the Protection of Human Health. Foods 2023; 12:652. [PMID: 36766180 PMCID: PMC9914696 DOI: 10.3390/foods12030652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The authenticity of foods of plant and animal origin is key to safeguarding both quality and safety aspects without jeopardizing consumers' health [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodoros Varzakas
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece
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