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Mac Sweeney E, Chiocchio I, Mandrone M, Sanna C, Bilo F, Maccarinelli G, Popescu VS, Pucci M, Morandini S, Memo M, Uberti DL, Borgese L, Trincia S, Poli F, Mastinu A, Abate G. Exploring the Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Potential, Metabolite Composition and Inorganic Profile of Cistus monspeliensis L. Aerial Parts and Roots. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:753. [PMID: 39061822 PMCID: PMC11273841 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13070753] [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: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This work focuses on Cistus monspeliensis L. aerial parts (AP) and roots (R) extracts, investigating the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of the two organs in comparison. At dosages between 1.56 and 6.25 µg/mL, both extracts showed a protective effect against LPS inflammatory stimulus on a macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7). Interestingly, only R was able to significantly reduce both IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA gene expression in the presence of LPS. Moreover, the treatment of a neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y) with AP and R at 6.25 µg/mL increased the cell survival rate by nearly 20% after H2O2 insult. However, only R promoted mitochondria survival, exhibited a significantly higher production of ATP and a higher activity of the enzyme catalase than the control. Both AP and R had similar primary metabolites; in particular, they both contained 1-O-methyl-epi-inositol. Labdane and methoxylated flavonoids were the most characteristic compounds of AP, while R contained mainly catechins, gallic acid, and pyrogallol derivatives. Considering the importance of elemental composition in plants, the inorganic profile of AP and R was also investigated and compared. No potentially toxic elements, such as Pb, were detected in any sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen Mac Sweeney
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (E.M.S.); (G.M.); (V.S.P.); (M.P.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.L.U.); (G.A.)
| | - Ilaria Chiocchio
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (I.C.); (S.T.); (F.P.)
| | - Manuela Mandrone
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (I.C.); (S.T.); (F.P.)
| | - Cinzia Sanna
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Via S. Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Fabjola Bilo
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (F.B.); (L.B.)
| | - Giuseppina Maccarinelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (E.M.S.); (G.M.); (V.S.P.); (M.P.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.L.U.); (G.A.)
| | - Vlad Sebastian Popescu
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (E.M.S.); (G.M.); (V.S.P.); (M.P.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.L.U.); (G.A.)
| | - Mariachiara Pucci
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (E.M.S.); (G.M.); (V.S.P.); (M.P.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.L.U.); (G.A.)
| | - Stefania Morandini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (E.M.S.); (G.M.); (V.S.P.); (M.P.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.L.U.); (G.A.)
| | - Maurizio Memo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (E.M.S.); (G.M.); (V.S.P.); (M.P.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.L.U.); (G.A.)
| | - Daniela Letizia Uberti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (E.M.S.); (G.M.); (V.S.P.); (M.P.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.L.U.); (G.A.)
| | - Laura Borgese
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (F.B.); (L.B.)
| | - Simona Trincia
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (I.C.); (S.T.); (F.P.)
| | - Ferruccio Poli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBit), Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (I.C.); (S.T.); (F.P.)
| | - Andrea Mastinu
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (E.M.S.); (G.M.); (V.S.P.); (M.P.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.L.U.); (G.A.)
| | - Giulia Abate
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (E.M.S.); (G.M.); (V.S.P.); (M.P.); (S.M.); (M.M.); (D.L.U.); (G.A.)
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Di Vito A, Mandrone M, Chiocchio I, Gorini F, Ravegnini G, Coschina E, Benuzzi E, Trincia S, Nozella AH, Aasen T, Sanna C, Morroni F, Hrelia P, Poli F, Angelini S. Arbutus unedo L. Fractions Exhibit Chemotherapeutic Properties for the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1201. [PMID: 38732416 PMCID: PMC11085211 DOI: 10.3390/plants13091201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Novel treatments in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are essential due to imatinib resistance and the modest results obtained with multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitors. We investigated the possibility that the hydroalcoholic extract from the leaves of Arbutus unedo L. (AUN) could harbor novel chemotherapeutics. The bio-guided fractionation of AUN led to a subfraction, FR2-A, that affected the viability of both imatinib-sensitive and -resistant GIST cells. Cells treated with FR2-A were positive for Annexin V staining, a marker of apoptosis. A rapid PARP-1 downregulation was observed, although without the traditional caspase-dependent cleavage. The fractionation of FR2-A produced nine further active subfractions (FRs), indicating that different molecules contributed to the effect promoted by FR2-A. NMR analysis revealed that pyrogallol-bearing compounds, such as gallic acid, gallic acid hexoside, gallocatechin, myricetin hexoside, and trigalloyl-glucose, are the main components of active FRs. Notably, FRs similarly impaired the viability of GIST cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), suggesting a non-specific mechanism of action. Nevertheless, despite the lack of specificity, the established FRs showed promising chemotherapeutic properties to broadly affect the viability of GIST cells, including those that are imatinib-resistant, encouraging further studies to investigate whether pyrogallol-bearing compounds could represent an alternative avenue in GISTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Di Vito
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Manuela Mandrone
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Ilaria Chiocchio
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Francesca Gorini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Gloria Ravegnini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Emma Coschina
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Eva Benuzzi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Simona Trincia
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Augusto Hubaide Nozella
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Trond Aasen
- Patologia Molecular Translacional, Vall d’Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), CIBERONC, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Cinzia Sanna
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, 091243 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Fabiana Morroni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Patrizia Hrelia
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Ferruccio Poli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
| | - Sabrina Angelini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.V.); (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.G.); (G.R.); (E.C.); (E.B.); (S.T.); (A.H.N.); (F.M.); (F.P.); (S.A.)
- Inter-Departmental Center for Health Sciences & Technologies, CIRI-SDV, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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Al Yassine D, El Massri N, Demircan G, Bulut G, Akin D, Tacer-Caba Z. Total Antioxidant Potential, Total Phenolic Profile and Cytotoxic Activity Against Brain Cancer: Melocan and Galdirik §. Food Technol Biotechnol 2023; 61:475-484. [PMID: 38205056 PMCID: PMC10775792 DOI: 10.17113/ftb.61.04.23.8071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Research background Brain cancer is known to be one of the most difficult types of cancer to cure. It has a serious impact on the lives of diagnosed people due to the insufficient treatment options and their side effects. The search for new alternative treatments is therefore ongoing. Melocan (Smilax excelsa L.) and galdirik (Trachystemon orientalis) are of great importance in both traditional culinary culture and traditional medicine around the Black Sea; however, the knowledge about their antioxidant and cytotoxic effects remains fairly limited. Experimental approach The aim of this study is to determine the antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of Smilax excelsa and Trachystemon orientalis on the C6 glioblastoma cell line. The plants of Smilax excelsa and Trachystemon orientalis were dried and extracted and then their total phenolic content (TPC) and phenolic profiles were studied. In addition, their total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS) were determined using an assay kit. We also analysed the total antioxidant activity (TAA) using the DPPH radical scavenging assay and the cytotoxic effect on the glioma cells using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) assay. Results and conclusions According to the results, the water extracts of Smilax excelsa and Trachystemon orientalis had higher TPC (expressed in gallic acid equivalents on dry mass basis: 1158.17 and 262 mg/100 g, respectively) than the ethanol extracts. TAA expressed in Trolox equivalents on dry mass basis was 192.86 and 131.92 mg/100 g for Smilax excelsa and Trachystemon orientalis, respectively. The MTT assay showed that Trachystemon orientalis had a greater cytotoxic effect. In conclusion, the findings of the current study are promising for the development of new drugs. Novelty and scientific contribution This is the first study that aims to evaluate the potential cytotoxic activity of two local Turkish plants, Smilax excelsa and Trachystemon orientalis, against C6 glioblastoma cells. The results confirm that both plants could be used as good therapeutic agents for the treatment of cancer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diaa Al Yassine
- Graduate School of Engineering, Bioengineering Program, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nourhane El Massri
- Graduate School of Engineering, Bioengineering Program, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gunnur Demircan
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Demiroglu Bilim University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gulay Bulut
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey
| | - Demet Akin
- Department of Pharmacology, Bahçeşehir University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Tacer-Caba
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Sanna C, Chiocchio I, Mandrone M, Bonvicini F, Gentilomi GA, Trincia S, Poli F. Metabolomic analysis and bioactivities of Arbutus unedo leaves harvested across the seasons in different natural habitats of Sardinia (Italy). BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 23:490. [PMID: 37828439 PMCID: PMC10571483 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-023-04497-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arbutus unedo L. is a wild tree of Mediterranean regions used as food and in traditional medicine and important for afforestation programs. There is no detailed information available on the variation of A. unedo leaves metabolome across the seasons. The leaves were analyzed by Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1 H NMR)-based metabolomics, comparing samples harvested across the seasons and in ten different natural habitats of Sardinia (Italy). RESULTS Multivariate analysis showed the impact of seasonal variation on the metabolome: glucose and quinic acid increased in summer, while in spring sucrose was accumulated. β-Arbutin, the main known active principle of A. unedo, generally reached the highest concentration in autumn. In winter, O-β-methylglucose, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), flavonols (quercetin-3-O-α-rhamnoside, myricetin-3-O-α-rhamnoside, kaempferol-3-O-α-rhamnoside), catechin, and gallocatechin increased. Characteristic metabolomic features were found also for samples collected in different locations. For instance, trees growing at the highest altitude and exposed to lower temperatures produced less flavonols and catechins. The only sample collected on trees growing on limestones, dolomites, and dolomitic limestones type of soil showed generally the highest content of arbutin. The highest phenolics content was found during spring, while samples collected on flowering branches in winter were the ones with the highest flavonoid content. The antioxidant activity was also variated, ranging from 1.3 to 10.1 mg of Trolox equivalents (TE)/mL of extract, and it was positively correlated to both total phenolics and flavonoid content. Winter samples showed the lowest antibacterial activity, while summer and autumn ones exhibited the highest activity (IC50 values ranging from 17.3 to 42.3 µg/mL against Staphylococcal species). CONCLUSION This work provides 1 H-NMR fingerprinting of A. unedo leaves, elucidating the main metabolites and their variations during seasons. On the basis of arbutin content, autumn could be considered the balsamic period of this taxon. Samples collected in this season were also the most active ones as antibacterial. Moreover, an interesting metabolomic profile enriched in catechins and flavonols was observed in leaves collected in winter on flowering branches which were endowed with high antioxidant potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Sanna
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, via Sant'Ignazio da Laconi 13, Cagliari, 09123, Italy
| | - Ilaria Chiocchio
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Manuela Mandrone
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, Bologna, 40126, Italy.
| | - Francesca Bonvicini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna, 40138, Italy
| | - Giovanna A Gentilomi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna, 40138, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna, 40138, Italy
| | - Simona Trincia
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Poli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, Bologna, 40126, Italy
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Chiocchio I, Mandrone M, Tacchini M, Guerrini A, Poli F. Phytochemical Profile and In Vitro Bioactivities of Plant-Based By-Products in View of a Potential Reuse and Valorization. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:795. [PMID: 36840143 PMCID: PMC9961642 DOI: 10.3390/plants12040795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Wastes and by-products of plant origin are of particular interest to develop a circular economy approach, which attempts to turn them into resources. In this work, thirty-seven neglected plant matrices, including agricultural residues, pest plants, and by-products from the herbal and food industry were extracted and tested for their in vitro anti-tyrosinase, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity against the phytopathogens Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae ATCC 19310 and Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskense ATCC 27822. Antioxidant activity ranged from 0.3 to 5 mg of Tr. eq/mL of plant extract, and extract of Castanea sativa pericarp (Csp), Rosa damascena buds (post-distillation) (Rod), and Prunus amygdalus exocarp and mesocarp (Pam) were the most powerful ones. Csp was also capable of inhibiting tyrosinase (IC50 = 16.5 µg/mL), as well as three distillation by-products, namely: Cupressus sempervirens (Css) (IC50 = 95.5 µg/mL), Salvia officinalis (Sco) (IC50 = 87.6 µg/mL), and Helichrysum italicum (Hei) (IC50 = 90.1 µg/mL). Five residues from distillation showed antibacterial activity against C. michiganensis (MICs ranging from 0.125 to 1 mg/mL), namely: Salvia sclarea L. (Sas), Salvia rosmarinus Schleid (Sar), Sco, Hei, and Css. The 1H NMR fingerprinting of the bioactive matrices was acquired, detecting primary and secondary metabolites (rosmarinic acid, shikimic acid, sclareol, and hydroxycinnamic acids).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Chiocchio
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuela Mandrone
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Tacchini
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Guerrini
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, 44100 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Poli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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Morales D. Use of Strawberry Tree ( Arbutus unedo) as a Source of Functional Fractions with Biological Activities. Foods 2022; 11:foods11233838. [PMID: 36496646 PMCID: PMC9736438 DOI: 10.3390/foods11233838] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Arbutus unedo, commonly named 'strawberry tree' (ST), is a Mediterranean native plant that represents a relevant source of biologically active fractions and compounds. ST fruits, traditionally used with culinary and medicinal purposes, along with other components (leaves, roots, honeys, etc.), have been subjected to varied extraction procedures to obtain enriched and bioactive products. This work reviewed the scientific literature, searching for studies that evaluated the potential health implications of ST fractions and attending to the tested biological activities (antioxidant, antiproliferative, hypoglycemic, immune-modulatory, antihypertensive, antimicrobial, etc.), the part of the tree, the experimental model, the specific bioactive compounds and the selected extraction protocol. Furthermore, the strengths and weaknesses of the current state of the published evidence were critically analysed. Although in vitro results demonstrated the potential of ST fractions, further research is encouraged in order to obtain in vivo evidence (animal and clinical studies), assess additional activities (hypocholesterolemic, microbiome-modulatory), maximize the use of advanced extraction technologies, purify and isolate specific bioactive compounds and broaden the analysis investigating phenolic and non-phenolic molecules and their bioavailability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Morales
- Nutrigenomics Research Group, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43007 Tarragona, Spain
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Cocco E, Maccioni D, Sanjust E, Falconieri D, Farris E, Maxia A. Ethnopharmacobotany and Diversity of Mediterranean Endemic Plants in Marmilla Subregion, Sardinia, Italy. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11223165. [PMID: 36432894 PMCID: PMC9695302 DOI: 10.3390/plants11223165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Human populations in various regions across the world exploit the medicinal properties of plants to treat a wide variety of diseases. Areas with both high rates of endemic taxa and persisting traditional uses of the local botanical resources are key sites for the investigation of Traditional Botanical Knowledge (TBK). Commonly, in these areas, information regarding the medicinal properties of native plants has been transmitted orally from generation to generation, however, a rapid decline in this knowledge has been observed, which can be attributed to socio-economic changes in recent years. The Mediterranean basin is one such site, where human history is intimately entwined with nature. The unique geographical situation and unrivaled environmental heterogeneity of the area, have allowed both the development of diverse civilizations as well as providing the basis for the evolution of extraordinary biodiversity. The Mediterranean basin can therefore be considered a global hotspot of endemic vascular plants, and of traditional knowledge of medicinal and aromatic species. This study researches the historical subregion of Marmilla (central-southern Sardinia, Italy), which was chosen because of its specific cultural and demographic characteristics: i.e., prolonged isolation and extreme longevity of the inhabitants of the area. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 145 people from the region, and 137 medicinal plants belonging to 62 families were identified, of which around 57,3% were taxa exclusive to the Mediterranean Basin. Findings showed that the most used parts of the plant were the leaves (49%), while as far as preparations are concerned, decoction (50%) was the most used to prepare medicinal formulations, making this the highest number of medico-botanical taxa reported in a study carried out in Sardinia using a similar methodology. In addition, this study contributes towards preventing the loss of TBK by documenting the medicinal traditions, passed down orally for centuries, in the words of the participants, shedding new light on the traditional knowledge of the inhabitants of the island. The findings lay the foundations for future applied studies in the fields of phytotherapy and phytochemical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Cocco
- Laboratory of Economic and Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, V.le S. Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Delia Maccioni
- Laboratory of Economic and Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, V.le S. Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Enrico Sanjust
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, SS 554 bivio Sestu, 09042 Monserrato, Italy
| | - Danilo Falconieri
- Istituto Tecnico Industriale Statale "Michele Giua", Via Montecassino, 09100 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Emmanuele Farris
- Department of Chemical, Physical, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Via Piandanna 4, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Maxia
- Laboratory of Economic and Pharmaceutical Botany, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, V.le S. Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
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Antioxidant, Anti-Proliferative Activity and Chemical Fingerprinting of Centaurea calcitrapa against Breast Cancer Cells and Molecular Docking of Caspase-3. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081514. [PMID: 36009233 PMCID: PMC9405406 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Centaurea calcitrapa has been intensively utilized in ethnomedicinal practices as a natural therapeutic recipe to cure various ailments. The current study aimed to chemically characterize ethanolic extract of C. calcitrapa (EECC) aerial parts (leaves and shoots) by use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses (GC-MS) and investigate its antioxidant and in vitro anticancer activities, elucidating the underlying molecular mechanism by use of flow cytometry-based fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and conducting in silico assessment of binding inhibitory activities of EECC major compounds docked to caspase-3. CG-MS profiling of EECC identified a total of 26 major flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds. DPPH and ABTS assays revealed that EECC exhibits potent antioxidant activity comparable to standard reducing agents. Results of the proliferation assay revealed that EECC exhibit potent, dose-dependent cytotoxic activities against triple-positive (MCF-7) and triple-negative (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer cell models, with IC50 values of 1.3 × 102 and 8.7 × 101 µg/mL, respectively. The observed cytotoxic effect was specific to studied cancer cells since EECC exhibited minimal (~<10%) cytotoxicity against MCF-12, a normal breast cell line. FACS analysis employing annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide double labeling demonstrated that the observed anti-proliferative activity against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 was mediated via apoptotic as well as necrotic signaling transduction processes. The increase in fluorescence intensity associated with DCFH oxidation to DCF, as reported by FACS, indicated that apoptosis is caused by generation of ROS. The use of caspase-3-specific fluorogenic substrate revealed a dose-dependent elevation in caspase-3 substrate-cleavage activity, which further supports EECC-mediated apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. The major EECC compounds were examined for their inhibitory activity against caspase-3 receptor (1HD2) using molecular docking. Three compounds exhibited the highest glide score energy of −5.156, −4.691 and −4.551 kcal/mol, respectively. Phenol, 2,6-dimethoxy established strong binding in caspase-3 receptor of hydrogenic type, with residue ARG 207 and of PI-PI stacking type with residue HIS 121. By contract, hexadecenoic acid showed 3 H-bond with the following residues: ASN 615, ASN 616a and THR 646. Taken together, the current findings reveal that EECC exhibits significant and specific cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells mediated by the generation of ROS and culminating into necrosis and apoptosis. Further investigations of the phytoconstituents-rich C. calcitrapa are therefore warranted against breast as well as other human cancer cell models.
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Pucci M, Mandrone M, Chiocchio I, Sweeney EM, Tirelli E, Uberti D, Memo M, Poli F, Mastinu A, Abate G. Different Seasonal Collections of Ficus carica L. Leaves Diversely Modulate Lipid Metabolism and Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14142833. [PMID: 35889791 PMCID: PMC9323846 DOI: 10.3390/nu14142833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the high prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, adipogenesis dysfunction and metabolic disorders are common features in the elderly population. Thus, the identification of novel compounds with anti-adipogenic and lipolytic effects is highly desirable to reduce diabetes complications. Plants represent an important source of bioactive compounds. To date, the antidiabetic potential of several traditional plants has been reported, among which Ficus carica L. is one of the most promising. Considering that plant metabolome changes in response to a number of factors including seasonality, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether Ficus carica leaves extracts collected in autumn (FCa) and spring (FCs) differently modulate lipid metabolism and adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The 1H-NMR profile of the extracts showed that FCs have a higher content of caffeic acid derivatives, glucose, and sucrose than FCa. In contrast, FCa showed a higher concentration of malic acid and furanocoumarins, identified as psoralen and bergapten. In vitro testing showed that only FCa treatments were able to significantly decrease the lipid content (Ctrl vs. FCa 25 μg/mL, 50 μg/mL and 80 μg/mL; p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, FCa treatments were able to downregulate the transcriptional pathway of adipogenesis and insulin sensitivity in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In more detail, FCa 80 μg/mL significantly decreased the gene expression of PPARγ (p < 0.05), C/EBPα (p < 0.05), Leptin (p < 0.0001), adiponectin (p < 0.05) and GLUT4 (p < 0.01). In conclusion, this study further supports an in-depth investigation of F. carica leaves extracts as a promising source of active compounds useful for targeting obesity and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariachiara Pucci
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.P.); (E.M.S.); (E.T.); (D.U.); (M.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Manuela Mandrone
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.P.)
| | - Ilaria Chiocchio
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.P.)
| | - Eileen Mac Sweeney
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.P.); (E.M.S.); (E.T.); (D.U.); (M.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Emanuela Tirelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.P.); (E.M.S.); (E.T.); (D.U.); (M.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Daniela Uberti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.P.); (E.M.S.); (E.T.); (D.U.); (M.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Maurizio Memo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.P.); (E.M.S.); (E.T.); (D.U.); (M.M.); (G.A.)
| | - Ferruccio Poli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 42, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (I.C.); (F.P.)
| | - Andrea Mastinu
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.P.); (E.M.S.); (E.T.); (D.U.); (M.M.); (G.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-030-371-7509
| | - Giulia Abate
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Division of Pharmacology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.P.); (E.M.S.); (E.T.); (D.U.); (M.M.); (G.A.)
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Dalkılıç S, Korkmaz İ, Dalkılıç LK, Akay G, Fidan S. In vitro cytotoxic effects of Smilax aspera L. roots on cancer cell lines. FOOD BIOSCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2021.101501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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11
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Chemical Composition and Antiproliferative Activity of the Ethanolic Extract of Cyperus articulatus L. (Cyperaceae). PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10102084. [PMID: 34685893 PMCID: PMC8541438 DOI: 10.3390/plants10102084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cyperus articulatus L. (Priprioca) is a plant of the Cyperaceae family traditionally used in traditional medicine in the Amazon region. Studies of the essential oil of this species have identified many terpene compounds. However, little is known about the possible uses of solid waste generated by the extraction of essential oils. This study aimed to investigate the chemical composition of volatile compounds and to evaluate the antiproliferative activity of the ethanolic extract of solid residues generated by the extraction of the essential oil of C. articulatus L. rizhomes in experimental models in vitro using peritoneal macrophages of mice and human tumor cell lines. The analysis of the chemical composition of volatile compounds indicated the presence of sesquiterpenes and particularly sequiterpenic ketones as main constituents. The results showed that the treatment with ethanolic extract of C. articulatus L. reduced the activity of the enzyme arginase and proliferation of cancer cells (p < 0.0001). The extract also showed no cytotoxicity in macrophages in concentrations between 12.5; 25 and 50 mg/mL (p < 0.0001). The results indicated that the extract of C. articulatus L. exerts antiproliferative activity (p < 0.0001) with low toxicity on healthy cells in experimental models in vitro.
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Milia E, Bullitta SM, Mastandrea G, Szotáková B, Schoubben A, Langhansová L, Quartu M, Bortone A, Eick S. Leaves and Fruits Preparations of Pistacia lentiscus L.: A Review on the Ethnopharmacological Uses and Implications in Inflammation and Infection. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10040425. [PMID: 33921406 PMCID: PMC8069618 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10040425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in revisiting plants for drug discovery, proving scientifically their role as remedies. The aim of this review was to give an overview of the ethnopharmacological uses of Pistacia lentiscus L. (PlL) leaves and fruits, expanding the search for the scientific discovery of their chemistry, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and antimicrobial activities. PlL is a wild-growing shrub rich in terpenoids and polyphenols, the oil and extracts of which have been widely used against inflammation and infections, and as wound healing agents. The more recurrent components in PlL essential oil (EO) are represented by α-pinene, terpinene, caryophyllene, limonene and myrcene, with high variability in concentration depending on the Mediterranean country. The anti-inflammatory activity of the oil mainly occurs due to the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the arachidonic acid cascade. Interestingly, the capacity against COX-2 and LOX indicates PlL EO as a dual inhibitory compound. The high content of polyphenols enriching the extracts provide explanations for the known biological properties of the plant. The protective effect against reactive oxygen species is of wide interest. In particular, their anthocyanins content greatly clarifies their antioxidative capacity. Further, the antimicrobial activity of PlL oil and extracts includes the inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, periodontal bacteria and Candida spp. In conclusion, the relevant scientific properties indicate PlL as a nutraceutical and also as a therapeutic agent against a wide range of diseases based on inflammation and infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egle Milia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43, 07100 Sassari, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (S.E.); Tel.: +39-79-228437 (E.M.); +41-31-632-25-42 (S.E.)
| | - Simonetta Maria Bullitta
- C.N.R., Institute for Animal Production System in Mediterranean Environment (ISPAAM), Traversa La Crucca 3, Località Baldinca, 07100 Sassari, Italy;
| | - Giorgio Mastandrea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/C, 07100 Sassari, Italy;
| | - Barbora Szotáková
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Akademika Heyrovského 1203, 50005 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic;
| | - Aurélie Schoubben
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, Via Fabretti, 48-06123 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Lenka Langhansová
- Institute of Experimental Botany, Czech Academy of Sciences, Rozvojová 263, 16502 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Marina Quartu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Antonella Bortone
- Dental Unite, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy;
| | - Sigrun Eick
- Department of Periodontology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 3, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (E.M.); (S.E.); Tel.: +39-79-228437 (E.M.); +41-31-632-25-42 (S.E.)
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Sanna C, Maxia A, Fenu G, Loi MC. So Uncommon and so Singular, but Underexplored: An Updated Overview on Ethnobotanical Uses, Biological Properties and Phytoconstituents of Sardinian Endemic Plants. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 9:E958. [PMID: 32751394 PMCID: PMC7465485 DOI: 10.3390/plants9080958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The last decades have recorded an increase of plant-based drug discovery processes. Indeed, natural products possess a superior chemical diversity as compared to synthetic ones, leading to a renewal in searching for new therapeutic agents from the plant kingdom. In particular, since the structural variety of natural compounds reflects the biodiversity of their source organisms, regions of the world with high biodiversity and endemism deserve particular interest. In this context, Sardinia Island (Italy), with 290 endemic taxa (12% of the total flora), is expected to provide unique and structurally diverse phytochemicals for drug development. Several research groups built up a large program dedicated to the analysis of Sardinian endemic species, highlighting their peculiar features, both in respect of phytochemical and biological profiles. On this basis, the aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive overview on ethnobotanical uses, biological properties and phytoconstituents of Sardinian endemic plants in order to support their beneficial potential and to provide input for future investigations. We documented 152 articles published from 1965 to June 2020 in which a broad range of biological activities and the identification of previously undescribed compounds have been reported, supporting their great value as sources of therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Sanna
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Via Sant’Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy; (A.M.); (G.F.); (M.C.L.)
- Co.S.Me.Se—Consorzio per lo Studio dei Metaboliti Secondari, Via Sant’Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Maxia
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Via Sant’Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy; (A.M.); (G.F.); (M.C.L.)
- Co.S.Me.Se—Consorzio per lo Studio dei Metaboliti Secondari, Via Sant’Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Fenu
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Via Sant’Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy; (A.M.); (G.F.); (M.C.L.)
| | - Maria Cecilia Loi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Via Sant’Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy; (A.M.); (G.F.); (M.C.L.)
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A. Petropoulos S, Fernandes Â, Dias MI, Pereira C, Calhelha RC, Chrysargyris A, Tzortzakis N, Ivanov M, D. Sokovic M, Barros L, Ferreira ICFR. Chemical Composition and Plant Growth of Centaurea raphanina subsp. mixta Plants Cultivated under Saline Conditions. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25092204. [PMID: 32397258 PMCID: PMC7248820 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25092204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this report was to study the effect of salinity (control: 2dS/m, S1: 4 dS/m and S2: 6 dS/m) and harvest time (first harvest on 9 May 2018 and second harvest on 19 April 2018) on the growth and the chemical composition of Centaurea raphanina subsp. mixta plants. The plants of the first harvest were used for the plant growth measurements (fresh weight and moisture content of leaves, rosette diameter, number and thickness of leaves), whereas those of the second harvest were not used for these measurements due to the flowering initiation, which made the leaves unmarketable due to their hard texture. The results of our study showed that C. raphanina subsp. mixta plants can be cultivated under mild salinity (S1 treatment) conditions without severe effects on plant growth and yield, since a more severe loss (27.5%) was observed for the S2 treatment. In addition, harvest time proved to be a cost-effective cultivation practice that allows to regulate the quality of the final product, either in edible form (first harvest) or for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical purposes as well as antimicrobial agents in food products. Therefore, the combination of these two agronomic factors showed interesting results in terms of the quality of the final product. In particular, high salinity (S2 treatment) improved the nutritional value by increasing the fat, proteins and carbohydrates contents in the first harvest, as well as the tocopherols and sugars contents (S1 and S2 treatments, respectively) in the second harvest. In addition, salinity and harvest time affected the oxalic acid content which was the lowest for the S2 treatment at the second harvest. Similarly, the richest fatty acid (α-linolenic acid) increased with increasing salinity at the first harvest. Salinity and harvest time also affected the antimicrobial properties, especially against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Trichoderma viride, where the extracts from the S1 and S2 treatments showed high effectiveness. In contrast, the highest amounts of flavanones (pinocembrin derivatives) were detected in the control treatment (second harvest), which was also reflected to the highest antioxidant activity (TBARS) for the same treatment. In conclusion, C. raphanina subsp. mixta plants seem to be tolerant to medium salinity stress (S1 treatment) since plant growth was not severely impaired, while salinity and harvesting time affected the nutritional value (fat, proteins, and carbohydrates) and the chemical composition (tocopherols, sugars, oxalic acid, fatty acids), as well as the bioactive properties (cytotoxicity and antimicrobial properties) of the final product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spyridon A. Petropoulos
- Department of Agriculture Crop Production and Rural Environment, University of Thessaly, Fytokou Street, 38446 N. Ionia, Magnissia, Greece
- Correspondence: (S.A.P.); (I.C.F.R.F.); Tel.: +30-242-109-3196 (S.A.P.); +351-27-333-0904 (I.C.F.R.F.)
| | - Ângela Fernandes
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; (Â.F.); (M.I.D.); (C.P.); (R.C.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Maria Ines Dias
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; (Â.F.); (M.I.D.); (C.P.); (R.C.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Carla Pereira
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; (Â.F.); (M.I.D.); (C.P.); (R.C.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Ricardo C. Calhelha
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; (Â.F.); (M.I.D.); (C.P.); (R.C.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Antonios Chrysargyris
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology and Food Science, Cyprus University of Technology, 3603 Lemesos, Cyprus; (A.C.); (N.T.)
| | - Nikolaos Tzortzakis
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology and Food Science, Cyprus University of Technology, 3603 Lemesos, Cyprus; (A.C.); (N.T.)
| | - Marija Ivanov
- Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.I.); (M.D.S.)
| | - Marina D. Sokovic
- Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”-National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.I.); (M.D.S.)
| | - Lillian Barros
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; (Â.F.); (M.I.D.); (C.P.); (R.C.C.); (L.B.)
| | - Isabel C. F. R. Ferreira
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; (Â.F.); (M.I.D.); (C.P.); (R.C.C.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence: (S.A.P.); (I.C.F.R.F.); Tel.: +30-242-109-3196 (S.A.P.); +351-27-333-0904 (I.C.F.R.F.)
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