Separation and Characterization of Phenolamines and Flavonoids from Rape Bee Pollen, and Comparison of Their Antioxidant Activities and Protective Effects Against Oxidative Stress

Beta vulgaris L. var cicla Decreases Liver Injury Induced by Antiarrhytmic Agent, Amiodarone

Amiodarone (AMD) is an effective antiarrhythmic drug, but its long-term usage strongly forms liver toxicity due to its accumulation tendency. The chard (Beta vulgaris L. var. cicla) is a unique plant which has a blood sugar-lowering effect and powerful antioxidant activity. The aim of the current study was to investigate the possible protective effects of chard on AMD-induced liver injury. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups. Control group, aqueous chard extract given group 500 mg/kg/day for one week, AMD given group 100 mg/kg/day for one week, AMD+Chard given group (at the same doses and times). They were sacrificed on the 8th day. The blood and liver samples were taken. The serum and liver biochemical parameters were found to be changed in AMD treated group. Chard administration reversed these parameters in serum and liver. In histological experiments, necrotic areas, mononuclear cell infiltration, the endothelial rupture in central vein, sinusoidal dilatation, hyperemia, dark eosinophilic cells and picnotic nucleus were observed in liver tissues of AMD treated group. Chard treatment reduced liver tissue damage. Considering results, we can suggest that chard prevented AMD induced liver injury biochemically and histologically.

Exploring the Botanical Origins of Bee-Collected Pollen: A Comprehensive Historical and Contemporary Analysis

Bee-collected pollen is one of the most important bee products. In order to predict its chemical composition and nutritional value botanical origin of pollen plays a crucial role. This review intended to collect all available data published about botanical origin of pollen collected all around the world. Due to enourmous amount of data and variables nonlinear principal component analysis (NLPCA), by applying Categorical Principal Component Analysis (CATPCA), was conducted in order to try to determine any specifity and/or differences among samples. Also, importance of some plant families/genera/species for bees was monitored. Based on CATPCA results families can serve in order to distinct samples from North/South America. Also, some samples from Europe (Turkey and Serbia) were characterized with presence of some specific families. Genera were excellent tool to distinguish samples from different parts of Brazil as well as Australia, Asia and Africa. Due to high and specific biodiversity pollen samples obtained from Sonoran desert (USA) completely were separated during analysis. This review presents the first attempt to summarize and classify a large number of data about botanical sources of bee-collected pollen.

Unlocking Quercetin's Neuroprotective Potential: A Focus on Bee-Collected Pollen

In the quest to evade side effects associated with synthetic drugs, mankind is continually exploring natural sources. In recent decades, neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) have surged dramatically compared to other human diseases. Flavonoids, naturally occurring compounds, have emerged as potential preventers of NDD development. Notably, quercetin and its derivatives demonstrated excellent antioxidant properties in the fight against NDDs. Recognizing bee-collected pollen (BP) as a well-established excellent source of quercetin and its derivatives, this review seeks to consolidate available data on the prevalence of this flavonoid in BP, contingent upon its botanical and geographical origins. It aims to advocate for BP as a superb natural source of "drugs" that could serve as preventative measures against NDDs. Examination of numerous published articles, detailing the phenolic profile of BP, suggests that it can be a great source of quercetin, with an average range of up to 1000 mg/kg. In addition to quercetin, 24 derivatives (with rutin being the most predominant) have been identified. Theoretical calculations, based on the recommended dietary intake for quercetin, indicate that BP can fulfil from 0.1 to over 100 % of the requirement, depending on BP's origin and bioaccessibility/bioavailability during digestion.

Optimization and Validation of Procyanidins Extraction and Phytochemical Profiling of Seven Herbal Matrices of Nutraceutical Interest

Several medicinal herbal plants are extensively used as sources of bioactive compounds with beneficial effects on human health. This study assessed the procyanidin and polyphenol profiles together with the antioxidant potential of seven herbal medical matrices. To achieve this aim, procyanidin extraction from grape pomace was optimized and validated by monitoring monomeric-trimeric procyanidins. The proposed quantification method was applied to the seven medical herbs, and it proved to be a very efficient protocol for procyanidin-rich extracts analysis. In addition, the Paullinia cupana Kunth. seed was identified as a very rich source of procyanidins (about 5 mg/g dry matrix of each dimeric and about 3 mg/g dry matrix trimeric) with high antioxidant properties. The polyphenolic profile was assessed by HPLC-HESI-MS/MS analysis. The in vitro antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH assay to explore the antioxidant properties of the extracts, which were substantially higher in Peumus boldus Molina leaves extracts (935.23 ± 169 μmol of Trolox equivalent/g of dry weight) concerning the other matrices. Moreover, a high Pearson coefficient value was observed between the total flavonoid content (TFC) and DPPH in comparison with the total polyphenol content (TPC) and DPPH, indicating flavonoids as the principal bioactive with antioxidant activity in the extracts.

Structural identification and antioxidant activity of trans-9, trans-11, cis-15-conjugated linolenic acid converted by probiotics

The study aimed to determine the chemical structures of octadecatrienoic acid isomers produced by probiotics through the bioconversion of α-linolenic acid and to assess their antioxidant capacities. The chemical structures were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS), while the antioxidant capacities were evaluated in vitro and in cellular. The NMR signals obtained allowed for definitive characterization, with the main ion fragments detected being m/z 58.0062, 59.0140, 71.0141, 113.0616, 127.0777, and 181.5833. Compounds at concentrations below 40 μM maintained the antioxidant capacity of HepG2 cells by protecting endogenous antioxidative enzymes and mitochondrial membrane potential. However, doses higher than 40 μM increase oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. These results confirmed the structure of the probiotic-derived compound as trans9, trans11, cis15-conjugated linolenic acid. Additionally, appropriate doses of CLNA can alleviate oxidative stress induced by AAPH, while high doses aggravate cellular damage. These findings provide foundational information for the further exploration of probiotic-derived edible lipids.

New Insights into Identification, Distribution, and Health Benefits of Polyamines and Their Derivatives

Polyamines and their derivatives are ubiquitously present in free or conjugated forms in various foods from animal, plant, and microbial origins. The current knowledge of free polyamines in foods and their contents is readily available; furthermore, conjugated polyamines generate considerable recent research interest due to their potential health benefits. The structural diversity of conjugated polyamines results in challenging their qualitative and quantitative analysis in food. Herein, we review and summarize the knowledge published on polyamines and their derivatives in foods, including their identification, sources, quantities, and health benefits. Particularly, facing the inherent challenges of isomer identification in conjugated polyamines, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of conjugated polyamines' structural characteristics, including the cleavage patterns and characteristic ion fragments of MS/MS for isomer identification. Free polyamines are present in all types of food, while conjugated polyamines are limited to plant-derived foods. Spermidine is renowned for antiaging properties, acclaimed as antiaging vitamins. Conjugated polyamines highlight their anti-inflammatory properties and have emerged as the mainstream drugs for antiprostatitis. This paper will likely help us gain better insight into polyamines and their derivatives to further develop functional foods and personalized nutraceuticals.

New insights into bee pollen: Nutrients, phytochemicals, functions and wall-disruption

Bee pollen is hailed as a treasure trove of human nutrition and has progressively emerged as the source of functional food and medicine. This review conducts a compilation of nutrients and phytochemicals in bee pollen, with particular emphasis on some ubiquitous and unique phenolamides and flavonoid glycosides. Additionally, it provides a concise overview of the diverse health benefits and therapeutic properties of bee pollen, particularly anti-prostatitis and anti-tyrosinase effects. Furthermore, based on the distinctive structural characteristics of pollen walls, a substantial debate has persisted in the past concerning the necessity of wall-disruption. This review provides a comprehensive survey on the necessity of wall-disruption, the impact of wall-disruption on the release and digestion of nutrients, and wall-disruption techniques in industrial production. Wall-disruption appears effective in releasing and digesting nutrients and exploiting bee pollen's bioactivities. Finally, the review underscores the need for future studies to elucidate the mechanisms of beneficial effects. This paper will likely help us gain better insight into bee pollen to develop further functional foods, personalized nutraceuticals, cosmetics products, and medicine.

All That Glitters Is Not Gold: Assessment of Bee Pollen Supplementation Effects on Gastric Mucosa

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of bee pollen supplementation on the levels of enzymes important for gastric mucosal homeostasis, namely cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and a biomarker-asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)-in the gastric mucosa of Wistar rats. The experimental phase divided the rats into four groups: two control groups, sedentary and active, both not supplemented, and two experimental groups, sedentary and active, supplemented with bee pollen. The results indicated that bee pollen supplementation reduced the levels of COX-1 and elevated iNOS levels, while showing no significant impact on COX-2 levels. These findings do not conclusively support the gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of bee pollen on gastric mucosa. However, the supplementation could have resulted in reduced ADMA levels in the physically active supplemented group. Our study does not unequivocally demonstrate the positive effects of bee pollen supplementation on the gastric mucosa, which may be attributed to the specific metabolism and bioavailability of substances within unprocessed, dried bee pollen. Further research should explore the topic of potential therapeutic applications of bee pollen in gastrointestinal health and its interactions with ADMA signaling pathways.

Chemical Properties and Biological Activity of Bee Pollen

Pollen, a remarkably versatile natural compound collected by bees for its abundant source of proteins and nutrients, represents a rich reservoir of diverse bioactive compounds with noteworthy chemical and therapeutic potential. Its extensive biological effects have been known and exploited since ancient times. Today, there is an increased interest in finding natural compounds against oxidative stress, a factor that contributes to various diseases. Recent research has unraveled a multitude of biological activities associated with bee pollen, ranging from antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties to potential antiviral and anticancer applications. Comprehending the extensive repertoire of biological properties across various pollen sources remains challenging. By investigating a spectrum of pollen types and their chemical composition, this review produces an updated analysis of the bioactive constituents and the therapeutic prospects they offer. This review emphasizes the necessity for further exploration and standardization of diverse pollen sources and bioactive compounds that could contribute to the development of innovative therapies.

Honeybees' foraging choices for nectar and pollen revealed by DNA metabarcoding

Honeybees are the most widespread managed pollinators of our food crops, and a crucial part of their well-being is a suitable diet. Yet, we do not know how they choose flowers to collect nectar or pollen from. Here we studied forty-three honeybee colonies in six apiaries over a summer, identifying the floral origins of honey and hive-stored pollen samples by DNA-metabarcoding. We recorded the available flowering plants and analyzed the specialized metabolites in honey. Overall, we find that honeybees use mostly the same plants for both nectar and pollen, yet per colony less than half of the plant genera are used for both nectar and pollen at a time. Across samples, on average fewer plant genera were used for pollen, but the composition was more variable among samples, suggesting higher selectivity for pollen sources. Of the available flowering plants, honeybees used only a fraction for either nectar or pollen foraging. The time of summer guided the plant choices the most, and the location impacted both the plants selected and the specialized metabolite composition in honey. Thus, honeybees are selective for both nectar and pollen, implicating a need of a wide variety of floral resources to choose an optimal diet from.

Quality Marker Discovery and Quality Evaluation of Eucommia ulmoides Pollen Using UPLC-QTOF-MS Combined with a DPPH-HPLC Antioxidant Activity Screening Method

Pollen, as an important component of Eucommia ulmoides (EUP), is rich in nutrients and is receiving increasing attention. At present, there are no reports on research related to the chemical composition and quality standards of EUP, and there are significant quality differences and counterfeit phenomena in the market. This study used a UPLC-QTOF-MS system to identify 49 chemical components in EUP for the first time. In the second step, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-HPLC antioxidant activity screening technology was used to identify the main active components of EUP, quercetin-3-O-sophoroside (QSH), quercetin-3-O-sambubioside (QSB), and quercetin 3-O-neohesperidoside (QNH), and their purification, preparation, and structure identification were carried out. Third, molecular docking was used to predict the activity of these components. Fourth, the intracellular ROS generation model of RAW264.7 induced by H₂O₂ was used to verify and evaluate the activity of candidate active ingredients to determine their feasibility as Q-markers. Finally, a quality control method for EUP was constructed using the three selected components as Q-markers. The identification of chemical components and the discovery, prediction, and confirmation of characteristic Q-markers in EUP provide important references for better research on EUP and the effective evaluation and control of its quality. This approach provides a new model for the quality control of novel foods or dietary supplements.

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer function of Engleromyces goetzei Henn aqueous extract on human intestinal Caco-2 cells treated with t-BHP

High body mass index (high BMI, obesity) is a serious public health problem, and "obesity-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and cancer" have become modern epidemic diseases. We carried out this study to explore a functional beverage that may protect against obesity-induced diseases. The Engleromyces goetzei Henn herbal tea is such a candidate. For this study, we carried out LC-MS analysis of E. goetzei Henn aqueous extract (EgH-AE); then used the Caco-2 cell line for the model cells and treated the cells with t-BHP to form an oxidative stress system. An MTT assay was used for testing the biocompatibility and cytoprotective effects; reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde determination was used for evaluating the antioxidative stress effect; TNF-α and IL-1β were used for observing the anti-inflammatory effect, and 8-OHdG for monitoring anticancer activity. The results of this study demonstrate that the EgH-AE has very good biocompatibility with the Caco-2 cell line and has good cytoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. It is clear that EgH-AE, a kind of ancient herbal tea, may be used to develop a functional beverage that can be given to people with a high BMI to protect against obesity-induced diseases.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of rape bee pollen after fermentation and their correlation with chemical components by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomics

As a common food processing technology, microbial fermentation is becoming increasingly popular to promote the bioactivity of materials. This study aims to enhance rape bee pollen bioactivity through fermentation and trace the potential components associated with its bioactivity. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of unfermented bee pollen and fermented bee pollen were evaluated, and their correlation with differential metabolites was analyzed. The results indicated that fermentation significantly (p < 0.05) improved the antioxidant (>2.3-fold) and anti-inflammatory (>1.36-fold) activities of bee pollen, and increased the contents of total phenolics and flavonoids by 1.99 and 1.53 folds. Moreover, the correlation analysis results indicated that 15 components, including three phenolamides, one flavonoid aglycone, seven fatty acids, three amino acids and one ketone compound, were positively correlated with bee pollen antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. These results suggest that fermentation is a promising approach to increase the bioactivity of bee pollen.

Translational Research on Bee Pollen as a Source of Nutrients: A Scoping Review from Bench to Real World

The emphasis on healthy nutrition is gaining a forefront place in current biomedical sciences. Nutritional deficiencies and imbalances have been widely demonstrated to be involved in the genesis and development of many world-scale public health burdens, such as metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, bee pollen is emerging as a scientifically validated candidate, which can help diminish conditions through nutritional interventions. This matrix is being extensively studied, and has proven to be a very rich and well-balanced nutrient pool. In this work, we reviewed the available evidence on the interest in bee pollen as a nutrient source. We mainly focused on bee pollen richness in nutrients and its possible roles in the main pathophysiological processes that are directly linked to nutritional imbalances. This scoping review analyzed scientific works published in the last four years, focusing on the clearest inferences and perspectives to translate cumulated experimental and preclinical evidence into clinically relevant insights. The promising uses of bee pollen for malnutrition, digestive health, metabolic disorders, and other bioactivities which could be helpful to readjust homeostasis (as it is also true in the case of anti-inflammatory or anti-oxidant needs), as well as the benefits on cardiovascular diseases, were identified. The current knowledge gaps were identified, along with the practical challenges that hinder the establishment and fructification of these uses. A complete data collection made with a major range of botanical species allows more robust clinical information.

Bee Pollen and Probiotics' Potential to Protect and Treat Intestinal Permeability in Propionic Acid-Induced Rodent Model of Autism

Rodent models may help investigations on the possible link between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and gut microbiota since autistic patients frequently manifested gastrointestinal troubles as co-morbidities. Thirty young male rats were divided into five groups: Group 1 serves as control; Group 2, bee pollen and probiotic-treated; and Group 3, propionic acid (PPA)-induced rodent model of autism; Group 4 and Group 5, the protective and therapeutic groups were given bee pollen and probiotic combination treatment either before or after the neurotoxic dose of PPA, respectively. Serum occludin, zonulin, lipid peroxides (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase, and gut microbial composition were assessed in all investigated groups. Recorded data clearly indicated the marked elevation in serum occludin (1.23 ± 0.15 ng/mL) and zonulin (1.91 ± 0.13 ng/mL) levels as potent biomarkers of leaky gut in the PPA- treated rats while both were normalized to bee pollen/probiotic-treated rats. Similarly, the high significant decrease in catalase (3.55 ± 0.34 U/dL), GSH (39.68 ± 3.72 µg/mL), GST (29.85 ± 2.18 U/mL), and GPX (13.39 ± 1.54 U/mL) concomitant with a highly significant increase in MDA (3.41 ± 0.12 µmoles/mL) as a marker of oxidative stress was also observed in PPA-treated animals. Interestingly, combined bee pollen/probiotic treatments demonstrated remarkable amelioration of the five studied oxidative stress variables as well as the fecal microbial composition. Overall, our findings demonstrated a new approach to the beneficial use of bee pollen and probiotic combination as a therapeutic intervention strategy to relieve neurotoxic effects of PPA, a short-chain fatty acid linked to the pathoetiology of autism.

Phenolamide and flavonoid glycoside profiles of 20 types of monofloral bee pollen

This study aimed at investigating phenolamides and flavonoid glycosides in 20 types of monofloral bee pollen. The plant origins of pollen samples were determined by DNA barcoding, with the purities to over 70 %. The 31 phenolamides and their 33 cis/trans isomers, and 25 flavonoid glycosides were identified; moreover, 19 phenolamides and 14 flavonoid glycosides as new-found compounds in bee pollen. All phenolics and flavonoids are present in the amidation or glycosylation form. The MS/MS cleavage modes of phenolamides and flavonoid glycosides were summarized. Isorhamnetin-3-O-gentiobioside presented the highest levels 23.61 mg/g in apricot pollen. Phenolamides in 11 types of pollen constituted over 1 % of the total weight, especially 3.9 % in rose and 2.8 % in pear pollen. Tri-p-coumaroyl spermidine and di-p-coumaroyl-caffeoyl spermidine respectively accounted for over 2.6 % of the total weight in pear and rose pollen. The richness in phenolamides and flavonoid glycosides can offer bee pollen more bioactivities as functional foods.

Identification of the botanical origins of honey based on nanoliter electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

The botanical origins of honey are important for the quality control and commercialization of honey. In this research, we established a nanoliter electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (Nano-ESI-MS) method to identify Castanopsis honey (CH), Eurya honey (EH), Dendropanax dentiger honey (DH), and Triadica cochinchinensis honey (TH). In total, 38 compounds were identified based on the collision-induced dissociation experiments by Nano-ESI-MS with 16 differential compounds and 7 quantified as potential differential markers. These four types of honey were distinguished from each other by their mass spectrometry data combined with multivariate analysis with three out of the 7 differential markers, i.e., phenethylamine, tricoumaroyl spermidine, and (+/-)-abscisic acid, identified as potential markers for CH, EH, and DH, respectively. Both the qualitative and quantitative results derived from Nano-ESI-MS were further verified by UPLC-Q/TOF-MS. Our studies provided the significant potential of the Nano-ESI-MS method in the identification of the botanical origins of different kinds of honey.

Cytotoxicity and Oxidative Stress Effects of Indene on Coelomocytes of Earthworm (Eisenia foetida): Combined Analysis at Cellular and Molecular Levels

Indene (IND) is a kind of important aromatic hydrocarbon that is extracted from coal tar and has important applications in industry and biology. In the process of production and utilization, it is easy to enter the soil and produce toxic effects on the soil or organisms. The earthworm is an important organism in the soil. The toxicity of indene on earthworm coelomocytes is rarely studied, and the oxidative stress effects of IND on earthworm coelomocytes remain unclear. In this study, coelomocytes from earthworms and antioxidant enzymes were selected as the research targets. In addition, IND caused oxidative stress, and its related toxic effects and mechanisms were systematically studied and evaluated at the cellular and molecular levels. The results showed that IND destroyed the redox balance in earthworm coelomocytes, and the large accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) significantly inhibited the activities of the antioxidant system, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH), and caused lipid peroxidation and membrane permeability changes, resulting in a decrease in cell viability to 74.5% of the control group. At the molecular level, IND was bound to SOD by the arene-H bond, and the binding constant was 4.95 × 10³. IND changed the secondary structure of the SOD and led to a loosening of the structure of the SOD peptide chain. Meanwhile, IND caused SOD fluorescence sensitization, and molecular simulation showed that IND was mainly bound to the junction of SOD subunits. We hypothesized that the changes in SOD structure led to the increase in SOD activity. This research can provide a scientific basis for IND toxicity evaluation.

Chemical Profiling and Nutritional Evaluation of Bee Pollen, Bee Bread, and Royal Jelly and Their Role in Functional Fermented Dairy Products

Honeybee products, as multicomponent substances, have been a focus of great interest. The present work aimed to perform the nutritional and chemical profiling and biochemical characterization of bee pollen (BP), bee bread (BB), and royal jelly (RJ) and study their applications in the fortification of functional fermented dairy products. Their effects on starter cultures and the physicochemical and sensorial quality of products were monitored. A molecular networking analysis identified a total of 46 compounds in the three bee products that could be potential medicines, including flavonoids, fatty acids, and peptides. BB showed the highest protein and sugar contents (22.57 and 26.78 g/100 g), which cover 45.14 and 53.56% of their daily values (DVs), with considerable amounts of the essential amino acids threonine and lysine (59.50 and 42.03%). BP, BB, and RJ can be considered sources of iron, as 100 g can cover 141, 198.5, and 94.94% of DV%, respectively. BP was revealed to have the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents (105.68 and 43.91 µg/g) and showed a synergetic effect when mixed with RJ, resulting in increased antioxidant activity, while BB showed a synergetic effect when mixed with RJ in terms of both antioxidant and proteolytic powers (IC50 7.54, 11.55, 12.15, 12.50, and 12.65 cP compared to the control (10.55 cP)), reflecting their organoleptic properties and highlighting these health-oriented products as promising natural products for human health care.

Croton urucurana Baill. Ameliorates Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease in Rats

Background: Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) affects a quarter of the worldwide population, but no drug therapies have yet been developed. Croton urucurana Baill. (Euphorbiaceae) is a medicinal species, that is, widely distributed in Brazil. It is used in popular medicine to treat gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and endocrine system diseases. However, its hepatoprotective and lipid-lowering effects have not yet been scientifically investigated.

Aim of the study: The present study investigated the effects of an extract of C. urucurana in a rat model of MAFLD that was associated with multiple risk factors, including hypertension, smoking, and dyslipidemia.

Material and Methods: The phytochemical composition of C. urucurana was evaluated by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Spontaneously hypertensive rats received a 0.5% cholesterol-enriched diet and were exposed to cigarette smoke (9 cigarettes/day for 10 weeks). During the last 5 weeks, the animals were orally treated with vehicle (negative control [C-] group), C. urucurana extract (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg), or simvastatin + enalapril (two standard reference drugs that are commonly used to treat dyslipidemia and hypertension, respectively). One group of rats that were not exposed to these risk factors was also evaluated (basal group). Blood was collected for the analysis of cholesterol, triglyceride, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels. The liver and feces were collected for lipid quantification. The liver was also processed for antioxidant and histopathological analysis.

Results: The main constituents of the C. urucurana extract were flavonoids, glycosides, and alkaloids. The model successfully induced MAFLD, reflected by increases in AST and ALT levels, and induced oxidative stress in the C- group. Treatment with the C. urucurana extract (300 mg/kg) and simvastatin + enalapril decreased plasma and hepatic lipid levels. In contrast to simvastatin + enalapril treatment, C. urucurana reduced AST and ALT levels. Massive lesions were observed in the liver in the C- group, which were reversed by treatment with the C. urucurana extract (300 mg/kg).

Conclusion:C. urucurana extract exerted promising hepatoprotective and lipid-lowering effects in a preclinical rat model of MAFLD.

Phytochemical content, especially spermidine derivatives, presenting antioxidant and antilipoxygenase activities in Thai bee pollens

Background

Bee pollen (BP) is full of useful nutrients and phytochemicals.Its chemical components and bioactivities depend mainly on the type of floral pollen.

Methods

Monofloral BP from Camellia sinensis L., Mimosa diplotricha, Helianthus annuus L., Nelumbo nucifera, Xyris complanata, and Ageratum conyzoides were harvested. Crude extraction and partition were performed to yield solvent-partitioned extracts of each BP. Total phenolic content (TPC) was assayed by the Folin-Ciocalteu method, while the flavonoid content (FC) was measured by the aluminium chloride colorimetric method. Antioxidant capacity was measured by the (i) 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, (ii) 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging activity and its Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and (iii) ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). All samples were tested for lipoxygenase inhibitory (LOXI) activity. The most active sample was enriched by silica gel 60 column chromatography (SiG60-CC) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), observing the chemical pattern of each fraction using thin layer chromatography. Chemical structure of the most active compound was analyzed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry.

Results

Dichloromethane (DCM)-partitioned BP extracts of H. annuus L. and M. diplotricha (DCMMBP) showed a very high TPC, while DCMMBP had the highest FC. In addition, DCMMBP had the strongest DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities (as a TEAC value), as well as FRAP value. Also, DCMMBP (60 µg/mL) gave the highest LOXI activity (78.60 ± 2.81%). Hence, DCMMBP was chosen for further enrichment by SiG60-CC and HPLC. Following this, the most active fraction showed higher antioxidant andLOXI activities with an EC₅₀ for DPPH and ABTS of 54.66 ± 3.45 µg/mL and 24.56 ± 2.99 µg/mL (with a TEAC value of 2,529.69 ± 142.16 µmole TE/g), respectively, and a FRAP value of 3,466.17 ± 81.30 µmole Fe²⁺/g and an IC₅₀ for LOXI activity of 12.11 ± 0.36 µg/mL. Triferuloyl spermidines were revealed to be the likely main active components.

Conclusions

TPC, FC, and spermidine derivatives played an important role in the antioxidant and antilipoxygenase activities in M. diplotricha bee pollen.

Changes in Histological Structure, Interleukin 12, Smooth Muscle Actin and Nitric Oxide Synthase 1. and 3. Expression in the Liver of Running and Non-Running Wistar Rats Supplemented with Bee Pollen or Whey Protein

Introduction: Bee pollen is a natural substance obtained from flowers by bees. It is a rich source of protein, vitamins and minerals. It can be used as a dietary supplement. Bee pollen has been investigated for the treatment of some diseases with promising potential. It can be helpful in supportive therapy for dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, diabetes type 2, as well the prevention and control of coronary heart disease and myocardial infarction. Whey protein is a rich source of amino acids. It is a basic dietary supplement for many athletes, both professional and amateur. It stimulates muscle growth and provides nutrition for cachectic patients. Aim of the study: The objective of the study was to assess the impact of dietary supplementation of bee pollen or whey protein on the Wistar rat liver histological structure and expression of interleukin 12, smooth muscle actin and nitric oxide synthases among running and non-running rats. Material and methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into six equal groups, three running and three non-running. Among both there was one control, one supplemented with bee pollen and one receiving whey proteins. After 8 weeks, all animals were decapitated and their livers were collected. Five micrometer thick slides were prepared and used for classical histological staining and immuno-histochemistry. ImageJ image analysis software was used to measure optical density and immunohistochemistry profile coverage. Results: Among all groups, morphology of liver was similar. In the running control group, expression of interleukin-12 (IL-12) was decreased as well as expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in a group of bee pollen supplemented rats. No significant changes in α- smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression was observed. Conclusions: Bee pollen is proving to be a questionable choice for athletes as an alternative to whey protein. Bee pollen supplementation affects hepatocyte cellular activity and has hepatoprotective effects. Whey protein performs worse in this regard. Lower antioxidant properties were found in groups supplemented with bee pollen than with whey protein.

Chemical Profiles of Korean Bee Pollens and Their Catechol-O-methyltransferase Inhibitory Activities

Bee pollen is an apicultural product collected by honeybees from flower stamens and is consumed to help maintain a healthy diet. In this study, the chemical profiles of 11 Korean bee pollens were investigated using molecular networking analysis. This analysis elucidated the presence of two major clusters, hydroxycinnamoyl acid amides (HCAAs, molecular network 1 (MN₁)) and flavonoid glycosides (MN₂), in the bee pollen samples. The inhibitory properties of the bee pollens and the isolated HCAAs toward human catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), a key neurotransmitter involved in Parkinson's disease and depression, were determined. N¹,N⁵,N¹⁰-(E)-tricaffeoylspermidine ((E,E,E)-1) exhibited the highest activity of the four compounds isolated, with an IC₅₀ value 16 μM, and inhibited COMT competitively. Quantitative analysis of HCAAs showed that the amounts of N¹,N¹⁰-dicaffeoyl-N⁵-p-coumaroylspermidine (2) and N¹⁰-caffeoyl-N¹,N⁵-di-p-coumaroylspermidine (3) contributed to the observed differences in the COMT inhibitory activities of Korean bee pollens. This study may lead to the prevention and treatment of Parkinson's disease and depression using bee pollens.

Widely targeted metabolomics analysis reveals the effect of fermentation on the chemical composition of bee pollen

Microbial fermentation can break the bee pollen wall. However, the global profiling of bee pollen metabolites under fermentation remains unclear. This study aims to comprehensively elucidate the changes in the composition of bee pollen after microbial fermentation. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-electron spray ionization-mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS) based on widely targeted metabolomics analysis was used to compare the chemical composition of unfermented bee pollen (UBP) and fermented bee pollen (FBP). Among the 890 metabolites detected, a total of 668 differential metabolites (classified into 17 categories) were identified between UBP and FBP. Fermentation significantly increased the contents of primary metabolites such as 74 amino acids and derivatives, 42 polyunsaturated fatty acids and 66 organic acids, as well as some secondary metabolites such as 38 phenolic acids, 80 flavone aglycones and 22 phenolamides. The results indicate that fermentation is a promising strategy to improve the nutritional value of bee pollen.

Potential Activity of Abrantes Pollen Extract: Biochemical and Cellular Model Studies

The aim of this study was to determine the grain composition and (poly)phenolic profile of pollen from Abrantes (Portugal), as well as its antioxidative and antidiabetic properties, and abilities to protect human erythrocytes against induced hemoglobin oxidation, lipid peroxidation, and hemolysis. The phytochemical profile of the Abrantes’ bee pollen revealed twenty phenolic compounds, identified by high-performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry coupled with photodiode array detection. Among them, quercetin derivatives were the most abundant. Concerning the biological potential, the pollen extract showed notable capacity for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, nitric oxide, and superoxide radicals, as well as for inhibition of α-glucosidase action, and protection of human erythrocytes against oxidative damage. Non-cytotoxic effects regarding the NHDF normal cell line, human adenocarcinoma Caco-2, and human liver HepG2 cells were observed. The results obtained contributed to further research on modes of action related to oxidative damage and metabolic health problems, to generate deeper knowledge of potential health-promoting effects to develop novel pharmaceutical drugs, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements.

Toxic mechanism on phenanthrene-induced cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and activity changes of superoxide dismutase and catalase in earthworm (Eisenia foetida): A combined molecular and cellular study

Phenanthrene (PHE) is an important organic compound, which is widespread in the soil environment and exhibits potential threats to soil organisms. Toxic effects of PHE to earthworms have been extensively studied, but toxic mechanisms on PHE-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress at the molecular and cellular levels have not been reported yet. Therefore, we explored the cytotoxicity and oxidative stress caused by PHE in earthworm coelomocytes and the interaction mechanism between PHE and the major antioxidant enzymes SOD/CAT. It was shown that high-dose PHE exposure induced the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mediated lipid peroxidation, reduced total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in coelomocytes, and triggered oxidative stress, thus resulted in a strong cytotoxicity at higher concentrations (0.6-1.0 mg/L). The intracellular SOD/CAT activity in cells after PHE exposure were congruent with that in molecular levels, which the activity of SOD enhanced and CAT inhibited. Spectroscopic studies showed the SOD/CAT protein skeleton and secondary structure, as well as the micro-environment of aromatic amino acids were changed after PHE binding. Molecular docking indicated PHE preferentially docked to the surface of SOD. However, the key residues Tyr 357, His 74, and Asn 147 for activity were in the binding pocket, indicating PHE more likely to dock to the active center of CAT. In addition, H-bonding and hydrophobic force were the primary driving force in the binding interaction between PHE and SOD/CAT. This study indicates that PHE can induce cytotoxicity and oxidative damage to coelomocytes and unearthes the potential effects of PHE on earthworms.

Authentication of saffron spice accessions from its common substitutes via a multiplex approach of UV/VIS fingerprints and UPLC/MS using molecular networking and chemometrics

Saffron is a spice revered for its unique flavor and health attributes often subjected to fraudulence. In this study, molecular networking as a visualization tool for UPLC/MS dataset of saffron and its common substitutes i.e. safflower and calendula (n = 21) was employed for determining genuineness of saffron and detecting its common substitutes i.e. safflower and calendula. Saffron was abundant in flavonol-O-glycosides and crocetin esters versus richness of flavanones/chalcones glycosides in safflower and cinnamates/terpenes in calendula. OPLS-DA identified differences in UPLC/MS profiles of different saffron accessions where oxo-hydroxy-undecenoic acid-O-hexoside was posed as saffron authentication marker and aided in discrimination between Spanish saffron of high quality from its inferior grade i.e. Iranian saffron along with crocetin di-O-gentiobiosyl ester and kaempferol-O-sophoroside. Kaempferol-O-neohesperidoside and N,N,N,-p-coumaroyl spermidine were characteristic safflower metabolites, whereas, calendulaglycoside C and di-O-caffeoyl quinic acid were unique to calendula. UV/VIS fingerprint spectral regions of picrocrocin (230-260 nm) and crocin derivatives (400-470 nm) were posed as being discriminatory of saffron authenticity and suggestive it can replace UPLC/MS in saffrom quality determination.

Optimisation of Bee Pollen Extraction to Maximise Extractable Antioxidant Constituents

This paper presents the findings of a comprehensive review on common bee pollen processing methods which can impact extraction efficiency and lead to differences in measured total phenolic content (TPC) and radical scavenging activity based on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) data. This hampers the comparative analysis of bee pollen from different floral sources and geographical locations. Based on the review, an in-depth investigation was carried out to identify the most efficient process to maximise the extraction of components for measurement of TPC, DPPH and FRAP antioxidant activity for two bee pollen samples from western Australia (Jarrah and Marri pollen). Optimisation by Design of Experiment with Multilevel Factorial Analysis (Categorical) modelling was performed. The independent variables included pollen pulverisation, the extraction solvent (70% aqueous ethanol, ethanol, methanol and water) and the extraction process (agitation, maceration, reflux and sonication). The data demonstrate that non-pulverised bee pollen extracted with 70% aqueous ethanol using the agitation extraction method constitute the optimal conditions to maximise the extraction of phenolics and antioxidant principles in these bee pollen samples.

Cross-Species Metabolic Profiling of Floral Specialized Metabolism Facilitates Understanding of Evolutional Aspects of Metabolism Among Brassicaceae Species

Plants produce a variety of floral specialized (secondary) metabolites with roles in several physiological functions, including light-protection, attraction of pollinators, and protection against herbivores. Pigments and volatiles synthesized in the petal have been focused on and characterized as major chemical factors influencing pollination. Recent advances in plant metabolomics have revealed that the major floral specialized metabolites found in land plant species are hydroxycinnamates, phenolamides, and flavonoids albeit these are present in various quantities and encompass diverse chemical structures in different species. Here, we analyzed numerous floral specialized metabolites in 20 different Brassicaceae genotypes encompassing both different species and in the case of crop species different cultivars including self-compatible (SC) and self-incompatible (SI) species by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Of the 228 metabolites detected in flowers among 20 Brassicaceae species, 15 metabolite peaks including one phenylacyl-flavonoids and five phenolamides were detected and annotated as key metabolites to distinguish SC and SI plant species, respectively. Our results provide a family-wide metabolic framework and delineate signatures for compatible and incompatible genotypes thereby providing insight into evolutionary aspects of floral metabolism in Brassicaceae species.

Phenolamides in plants: an update on their function, regulation, and origin of their biosynthetic enzymes

Phenolamides represent a family of specialized metabolites, consisting of the association of hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives with aliphatic or aromatic amines. Since the discovery of the first phenolamide in the late 1940s, decades of phytochemical analyses have revealed a high structural diversity for this family and a wide distribution in the plant kingdom. The occurrence of structurally diverse phenolamides in almost all plant organs has led to early hypotheses on their involvement in floral initiation and fertility, as well as plant defense against biotic and abiotic stress. In the present work, we critically review the literature ascribing functional hypotheses to phenolamides and recent evidence on the control of their biosynthesis in response to biotic stress. We additionally provide a phylogenetic analysis of the numerous N-hydroxycinnamoyltransferases involved in the synthesis of phenolamides and discuss the potential role of other enzyme families in their diversification. The data presented suggest multiple evolutionary events that contributed to the extension of the taxonomic distribution and diversity of phenolamides.

Nutrients Bioaccessibility and Anti-inflammatory Features of Fermented Bee Pollen: A Comprehensive Investigation

We compared raw bee-collected pollen (Raw-BCP), spontaneously fermented BCP (Unstarted-BCP), and BCP fermented with selected microbial starters (Started-BCP) to deepen whether fermentation may favorably affect the nutrients bioaccessibility and functional features of BCP. Under in vitro gastrointestinal batches, the highest serum-availability of phenolic compounds was found in Started-BCP, highlighting the positive effect exerted by selected microbial starters. The same effect was not found in spontaneously fermented BCP. In colon adenocarcinoma cell line-2 (Caco-2) cells stressed by a pro-inflammatory stimulus, the treatment with Started-BCP halted the increase of pro-inflammatory mediator's level. Started-BCP counteracted efficiently the deleterious effects of inflammatory stimuli on the integrity of the Caco-2 cells monolayer and its barrier function. Started-BCP successfully counteracted the H₂O₂-induced intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in Caco-2 cells. A protective role against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation was exerted by Started-BCP in human keratinocytes. The same protective effects on Caco-2 and keratinocyte cell lines were negligible after treatments with Raw-BCP or Unstarted-BCP.