maculates Insect Larvae

Biological activity of essential oils from Ferulago angulata and Ferula assa-foetida against food-related microorganisms (antimicrobial) and Ephestia kuehniella as a storage pest (insecticidal); an in vitro and in silico study

Misuse of synthetic pesticides and antimicrobials in agriculture and the food industry has resulted in food contamination, promoting resistant pests and pathogen strains and hazards for humanity and the environment. Therefore, ever-increasing concern about synthetic chemicals has stimulated interest in eco-friendly compounds. Ferulago angulata (Schltdl.) Boiss. and Ferula assa-foetida L., as medicinal species with restricted natural distribution and unknown biological potential, aimed at investigation of their essential oil (EO) biological properties, were subjected. Z-β-Ocimene and Z-1-Propenyl-sec-butyl disulfide molecules were identified as the major composition of the essential oil of the fruits of F. angulata and F. assa-foetida, respectively. In vitro antimicrobial activity and membrane destruction investigation by scanning electron microscopy imaging illustrated that F. angulata EO had potent antibacterial activity. Besides, the EOs of both plants exhibited significant anti-yeast activity against Candida albicans. In relation to insecticidal activity, both EOs indicated appropriate potential against Ephestia kuehniella; however, the F. assa-foetida EO had more toxicity on the studied pest. Among several insecticidal-related targets, acetylcholinesterase was identified as the main target of EO based on the molecular docking approach. Hence, in line with in vitro results, in silico evaluation determined that F. assa-foetida has a higher potential for inhibiting acetylcholinesterase and, consequently, better insecticide properties. Overall, in addition to the antioxidant properties of both EO, F. angulata EO could serve as an effective prevention against microbial spoilage and foodborne pathogens, and F. assa-foetida EO holds promise as a multi-purpose and natural biocide for yeast contamination and pest management particularly against E. kuehniella.

Elevating Cereal-Based Nutrition: Moringa oleifera Supplemented Bread and Biscuits

Enhancing the nutritional value of commonly consumed, cost-effective staple foods, such as bread and biscuits, by fortifying them with Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) and its phenolic-rich extract holds substantial potential for addressing malnutrition. This study evaluated the phenolic extract from MOLP obtained through Soxhlet extraction, focusing on its antioxidant, antibacterial, and antidiabetic properties. The resulting extract exhibited a total phenolic content (TPC) of 138.2 mg of gallic acid equivalents/g. The ABTS and DPPH assays presented IC50 values of 115.2 mg/L and 544.0 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, the extract displayed notable α-amylase inhibition and no cytotoxicity towards human fibroblasts. The primary phenolic compounds identified were catechin, epicatechin, and caffeic acid. Subsequently, MOLP and its extract were incorporated into bread and biscuits, replacing 5% of wheat flour, resulting in fortified functional foods. The fortified products exhibited improved TPC and antioxidant activity compared to the non-fortified foods. Furthermore, they displayed the ability to inhibit microbial growth, leading to an extended shelf life. Sensory analysis indicated that the products incorporated with the extract were preferred over those with MOLP. These results have demonstrated the viability of using MOLP and its phenolic-rich extract as an environmentally sustainable strategy for enhancing the quality of cereal-based products.

New Insights into the Latest Advancement in α-Amylase Inhibitors of Plant Origin with Anti-Diabetic Effects

The rising predominance of type 2 diabetes, combined with the poor medical effects seen with commercially available anti-diabetic medications, has motivated the development of innovative treatment approaches for regulating postprandial glucose levels. Natural carbohydrate digestion enzyme inhibitors might be a viable option for blocking dietary carbohydrate absorption with fewer side effects than manufactured medicines. Alpha-amylase is a metalloenzyme that facilitates digestion by breaking down polysaccharides into smaller molecules such as maltose and maltotriose. It also contributes to elevated blood glucose levels and postprandial hyperglycemia. As a result, scientists are being urged to target α-amylase and create inhibitors that can slow down the release of glucose from carbohydrate chains and prolong its absorption, thereby resulting in lower postprandial plasma glucose levels. Natural α-amylase inhibitors derived from plants have gained popularity as safe and cost-effective alternatives. The bioactive components responsible for the inhibitory actions of various plant extracts have been identified through phytochemical research, paving the way for further development and application. The majority of the findings, however, are based on in vitro investigations. Only a few animal experiments and very few human investigations have confirmed these findings. Despite some promising results, additional investigation is needed to develop feasible anti-diabetic drugs based on plant-derived pancreatic α-amylase inhibitors. This review summarizes the most recent findings from research on plant-derived pancreatic α-amylase inhibitors, including plant extracts and plant-derived bioactive compounds. Furthermore, it offers insights into the structural aspects of the crucial therapeutic target, α-amylases, in addition to their interactions with inhibitors.

Gene fusions, micro-exons and splice variants define stress signaling by AP2/ERF and WRKY transcription factors in the sesame pan-genome

Evolutionary dynamics of AP2/ERF and WRKY genes, the major components of defense response were studied extensively in the sesame pan-genome. Massive variation was observed for gene copy numbers, genome location, domain structure, exon-intron structure and protein parameters. In the pan-genome, 63% of AP2/ERF members were devoid of introns whereas >99% of WRKY genes contained multiple introns. AP2 subfamily was found to be micro-exon rich with the adjoining intronic sequences sharing sequence similarity to many stress-responsive and fatty acid metabolism genes. WRKY family included extensive multi-domain gene fusions where the additional domains significantly enhanced gene and exonic sizes as well as gene copy numbers. The fusion genes were found to have roles in acquired immunity, stress response, cell and membrane integrity as well as ROS signaling. The individual genomes shared extensive synteny and collinearity although ecological adaptation was evident among the Chinese and Indian accessions. Significant positive selection effects were noticed for both micro-exon and multi-domain genes. Splice variants with changes in acceptor, donor and branch sites were common and 6-7 splice variants were detected per gene. The study ascertained vital roles of lipid metabolism and chlorophyll biosynthesis in the defense response and stress signaling pathways. 60% of the studied genes localized in the nucleus while 20% preferred chloroplast. Unique cis-element distribution was noticed in the upstream promoter region with MYB and STRE in WRKY genes while MYC was present in the AP2/ERF genes. Intron-less genes exhibited great diversity in the promoter sequences wherein the predominance of dosage effect indicated variable gene expression levels. Mimicking the NBS-LRR genes, a chloroplast localized WRKY gene, Swetha_24868, with additional domains of chorismate mutase, cAMP and voltage-dependent potassium channel was found to act as a master regulator of defense signaling, triggering immunity and reducing ROS levels.