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Cerri L, Parri S, Dias MC, Fabiano A, Romi M, Cai G, Cantini C, Zambito Y. Olive Leaf Extracts from Three Italian Olive Cultivars Exposed to Drought Stress Differentially Protect Cells against Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:77. [PMID: 38247501 PMCID: PMC10812426 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13010077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Olive leaves are an abundant by-product of olive oil production. Olive leaf extracts (OLEs) are rich in polyphenols, which can be used for health benefits. As polyphenols are the main antioxidant molecules in plants, plants typically increase their polyphenol content when exposed to drought stress. However, the phenolic profile of OLEs can vary in relation to the origin and variety of the plant material. In this work, olive leaf extracts from three different Italian olive cultivars (Giarraffa, Leccino, and Maurino) both exposed and not exposed to drought stress were studied in terms of antioxidant properties and profile, intestinal permeation, and protection against oxidative stress of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), since HUVECs are considered a model to study a wide range of diseases. OLEs from stressed Maurino and Giarraffa plants showed the highest increase in antioxidant capacity compared to controls. The phenolic profile of Maurino' was mainly increased by water deficit, with a large increase in the compounds oleuropein and luteolin-7-O-rutinoside. All tested extracts exposed to a water deficit protected HUVECs against oxidative stress by reducing ROS production, and this effect was more pronounced in OLEs from Giarraffa and Maurino exposed to drought stress compared to all other extracts. Finally, OLE from the stressed Giarraffa group showed a higher apparent permeability of antioxidant molecules than that of Maurino.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cerri
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 33, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (L.C.); (A.F.); (Y.Z.)
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; (S.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Sara Parri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; (S.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Maria Celeste Dias
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Angela Fabiano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 33, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (L.C.); (A.F.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; (S.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; (S.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Institute for BioEconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Strada Provinciale Aurelia Vecchia 49, 58022 Follonica, Italy;
| | - Ylenia Zambito
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 33, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (L.C.); (A.F.); (Y.Z.)
- Research Centre for Nutraceutical and Healthy Foods “NUTRAFOOD”, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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Genangeli A, Avola G, Bindi M, Cantini C, Cellini F, Riggi E, Gioli B. A Novel Correction Methodology to Improve the Performance of a Low-Cost Hyperspectral Portable Snapshot Camera. Sensors (Basel) 2023; 23:9685. [PMID: 38139530 PMCID: PMC10748185 DOI: 10.3390/s23249685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The development of spectral sensors (SSs) capable of retrieving spectral information have opened new opportunities to improve several environmental and agricultural practices, e.g., crop breeding, plant phenotyping, land use monitoring, and crop classification. The SSs are classified as multispectral and hyperspectral (HS) based on the number of the spectral bands resolved and sampled during data acquisition. Large-scale applications of the HS remain limited due to the cost of this type of technology and the technical difficulties in hyperspectral data processing. Low-cost portable hyperspectral cameras (PHCs) have been progressively developed; however, critical aspects associated with data acquisition and processing, such as the presence of spectral discontinuities, signal jumps, and a high level of background noise, were reported. The aim of this work was to analyze and improve the hyperspectral output of a PHC Senop HSC-2 device by developing a general use methodology. Several signal gaps were identified as falls and jumps across the spectral signatures near 513, 650, and 930 nm, while the dark current signal magnitude and variability associated with instrumental noise showed an increasing trend over time. A data correction pipeline was successfully developed and tested, leading to 99% and 74% reductions in radiance signal jumps identified at 650 and 830 nm, respectively, while the impact of noise on the acquired signal was assessed to be in the range of 10% to 15%. The developed methodology can be effectively applied to other low-cost hyperspectral cameras.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Genangeli
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, P. le delle Cascine 18, 50144 Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Avola
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Bindi
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, P. le delle Cascine 18, 50144 Florence, Italy
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Azienda Agraria “Santa Paolina”, S.P. n° 152 Aurelia Vecchia Km 43,300, 58022 Follonica, Italy
| | - Francesco Cellini
- Centro Ricerche Metapontum Agrobios-Agenzia Lucana di Sviluppo e di Innovazione in Agricoltura (ALSIA), S.S. Jonica 106, Km 448,2, 75010 Metaponto di Bernalda, Italy
| | - Ezio Riggi
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Beniamino Gioli
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via G. Caproni 8, 50145 Firenze, Italy
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Vicario G, Cantini C, Francini A, Raffaelli A, Cifelli M, Domenici V, Sebastiani L. Olive Fruit Ripening Degree and Water Content Relationships with Phenolic Acids and Alcohols, Secoiridoids, Flavonoids and Pigments in Fruit and Oil. Molecules 2023; 28:6943. [PMID: 37836786 PMCID: PMC10574279 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28196943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Olive drupe traits (i.e., ripening index and pericarp water content) and minor components (i.e., phenols and pigments in both fruit and oil) are important for human health and are affected by agronomic background. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between fruit traits, phenols, and pigments in samples derived from different soil and water management practices. Chromatographic (UHPLC-MS/MS) and spectroscopic (1HNMR and near UV-Vis spectroscopy) techniques were employed for the characterization of olive fruits and oils. The use of various techniques allowed the identification of interesting trace compounds. We observed that most of the fruit phenols (a total of 29 compounds) were correlated with the degree of ripening: most of the phenolic acids (and their derivatives), phenolic alcohols, and secoiridoids were negatively correlated, whereas the majority of the studied flavonoids were positively correlated. The relationship between the ripening index and fruit phenolic compounds appears to be dependent on the metabolic pathway that controls the synthesis of each individual compound. Conversely, the secoiridoids and pigments in olive oil showed a negative correlation with pulp moisture, probably because of the influence of the water content on the extractability and transfer in the oil phase of these minor components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Vicario
- Crop Science Research Centre (CSRC), Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (A.R.)
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Institute for BioEconomy (IBE), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via Vecchia Aurelia 49, 58022 Follonica, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Francini
- Crop Science Research Centre (CSRC), Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (A.R.)
| | - Andrea Raffaelli
- Crop Science Research Centre (CSRC), Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (A.R.)
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology—National Research Council (IBBA—CNR), Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Mario Cifelli
- Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry Department, University of Pisa, Via Moruzzi 13, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.C.); (V.D.)
| | - Valentina Domenici
- Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry Department, University of Pisa, Via Moruzzi 13, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.C.); (V.D.)
| | - Luca Sebastiani
- Crop Science Research Centre (CSRC), Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (G.V.); (A.F.); (A.R.)
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Conti V, Piccini C, Romi M, Salusti P, Cai G, Cantini C. Pasta Enriched with Carrot and Olive Leaf Flour Retains High Levels of Accessible Bioactives after In Vitro Digestion. Foods 2023; 12:3540. [PMID: 37835193 PMCID: PMC10572326 DOI: 10.3390/foods12193540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this research was to evaluate the levels of antioxidants and polyphenols in pasta enriched with either carrot or olive leaf flours after simulating gastrointestinal digestion. Pasta samples were prepared with fixed amounts of carrot and olive leaf flours (15% and 6% of the total mixture, respectively). We measured the antioxidant capacity and polyphenol content at different stages of the pasta production process, starting from the initial flour to the cooked pasta, and tested samples of the liquid component and solid waste resulting from the digestion process. The antioxidant activity was measured by the FRAP method, while the polyphenol content was measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. Vitamin E contents were measured by HPLC. The pasta enriched with carrot (1.26 ± 0.05 mmol/100 g) and olive leaf (2.9 ± 0.07 mmol/100 g) exhibited higher antioxidant power compared to the unenriched pasta (0.8 ± 0.1 mmol/100 g). The polyphenol content followed a similar trend, with values of 131.23 ± 3.08 for olive flour-enriched pasta, 79.15 ± 1.11 for carrot flour-enriched pasta, and 67.5 ± 1.39 for the wheat-only pasta. The pasta samples maintained their antioxidant and polyphenol levels even after undergoing the simulated digestion process. Significantly, the liquid component of the pasta with olive leaf flours had the highest levels of antioxidants and polyphenols during all stages of the digestion process. According to the results of this study, pasta enriched with carrot and olive leaf flours shows promising potential for improving nutritional and functional properties by increasing antioxidant and polyphenol content. The samples were also evaluated by a sensory panel, which showed that fortification modified the perception of some organoleptic attributes without affecting the overall taste of the pasta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Conti
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Piccini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.P.); (M.R.); (G.C.)
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.P.); (M.R.); (G.C.)
| | - Patrizia Salusti
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Bioeconomy (CNR-IBE), 58022 Follonica, Italy; (P.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.P.); (M.R.); (G.C.)
| | - Claudio Cantini
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Bioeconomy (CNR-IBE), 58022 Follonica, Italy; (P.S.); (C.C.)
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Genangeli A, Avola G, Bindi M, Cantini C, Cellini F, Grillo S, Petrozza A, Riggi E, Ruggiero A, Summerer S, Tedeschi A, Gioli B. Low-Cost Hyperspectral Imaging to Detect Drought Stress in High-Throughput Phenotyping. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:1730. [PMID: 37111953 PMCID: PMC10143644 DOI: 10.3390/plants12081730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Recent developments in low-cost imaging hyperspectral cameras have opened up new possibilities for high-throughput phenotyping (HTP), allowing for high-resolution spectral data to be obtained in the visible and near-infrared spectral range. This study presents, for the first time, the integration of a low-cost hyperspectral camera Senop HSC-2 into an HTP platform to evaluate the drought stress resistance and physiological response of four tomato genotypes (770P, 990P, Red Setter and Torremaggiore) during two cycles of well-watered and deficit irrigation. Over 120 gigabytes of hyperspectral data were collected, and an innovative segmentation method able to reduce the hyperspectral dataset by 85.5% was developed and applied. A hyperspectral index (H-index) based on the red-edge slope was selected, and its ability to discriminate stress conditions was compared with three optical indices (OIs) obtained by the HTP platform. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) applied to the OIs and H-index revealed the better capacity of the H-index to describe the dynamic of drought stress trend compared to OIs, especially in the first stress and recovery phases. Selected OIs were instead capable of describing structural changes during plant growth. Finally, the OIs and H-index results have revealed a higher susceptibility to drought stress in 770P and 990P than Red Setter and Torremaggiore genotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Genangeli
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, Piazzale delle Cascine 18, 50144 Florence, Italy; (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Giovanni Avola
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Caproni 8, 50145 Florence, Italy; (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Marco Bindi
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, Piazzale delle Cascine 18, 50144 Florence, Italy; (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Caproni 8, 50145 Florence, Italy; (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Francesco Cellini
- Centro Ricerche Metapontum Agrobios-Agenzia Lucana di Sviluppo e di Innovazione in Agricoltura (ALSIA), S.S. Jonica 106, km 448,2, 75010 Metaponto di Bernalda, Italy; (F.C.); (A.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Stefania Grillo
- D1 National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources, Via Università 133, 80055 Portici, Italy; (S.G.); (A.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Angelo Petrozza
- Centro Ricerche Metapontum Agrobios-Agenzia Lucana di Sviluppo e di Innovazione in Agricoltura (ALSIA), S.S. Jonica 106, km 448,2, 75010 Metaponto di Bernalda, Italy; (F.C.); (A.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Ezio Riggi
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Caproni 8, 50145 Florence, Italy; (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Alessandra Ruggiero
- D1 National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources, Via Università 133, 80055 Portici, Italy; (S.G.); (A.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Stephan Summerer
- Centro Ricerche Metapontum Agrobios-Agenzia Lucana di Sviluppo e di Innovazione in Agricoltura (ALSIA), S.S. Jonica 106, km 448,2, 75010 Metaponto di Bernalda, Italy; (F.C.); (A.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Anna Tedeschi
- D1 National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources, Via Università 133, 80055 Portici, Italy; (S.G.); (A.R.); (A.T.)
| | - Beniamino Gioli
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Caproni 8, 50145 Florence, Italy; (G.A.); (C.C.); (E.R.)
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Poggioni L, Romi M, Guarnieri M, Cai G, Cantini C. Nutraceutical profile of goji (Lycium barbarum L.) berries in relation to environmental conditions and harvesting period. FOOD BIOSCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2022.101954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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Genangeli A, Allasia G, Bindi M, Cantini C, Cavaliere A, Genesio L, Giannotta G, Miglietta F, Gioli B. A Novel Hyperspectral Method to Detect Moldy Core in Apple Fruits. Sensors (Basel) 2022; 22:s22124479. [PMID: 35746261 PMCID: PMC9230990 DOI: 10.3390/s22124479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
An innovative low-cost device based on hyperspectral spectroscopy in the near infrared (NIR) spectral region is proposed for the non-invasive detection of moldy core (MC) in apples. The system, based on light collection by an integrating sphere, was tested on 70 apples cultivar (cv) Golden Delicious infected by Alternaria alternata, one of the main pathogens responsible for MC disease. Apples were sampled in vertical and horizontal positions during five measurement rounds in 13 days’ time, and 700 spectral signatures were collected. Spectral correlation together with transmittance temporal patterns and ANOVA showed that the spectral region from 863.38 to 877.69 nm was most linked to MC presence. Then, two binary classification models based on Artificial Neural Network Pattern Recognition (ANN-AP) and Bagging Classifier (BC) with decision trees were developed, revealing a better detection capability by ANN-AP, especially in the early stage of infection, where the predictive accuracy was 100% at round 1 and 97.15% at round 2. In subsequent rounds, the classification results were similar in ANN-AP and BC models. The system proposed surpassed previous MC detection methods, needing only one measurement per fruit, while further research is needed to extend it to different cultivars or fruits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Genangeli
- Department of Agronomy and Land Management, University of Florence, P.le delle Cascine 18, 50144 Florence, Italy; (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Giorgio Allasia
- Gruppo FOS, Via Enrico Melen, 77/ed.A, 16152 Genova, Italy; (G.A.); (G.G.)
| | - Marco Bindi
- Department of Agronomy and Land Management, University of Florence, P.le delle Cascine 18, 50144 Florence, Italy; (A.G.); (M.B.)
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Caproni 8, 50145 Florence, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.); (L.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Alice Cavaliere
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Caproni 8, 50145 Florence, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.); (L.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Lorenzo Genesio
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Caproni 8, 50145 Florence, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.); (L.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Giovanni Giannotta
- Gruppo FOS, Via Enrico Melen, 77/ed.A, 16152 Genova, Italy; (G.A.); (G.G.)
| | - Franco Miglietta
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Caproni 8, 50145 Florence, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.); (L.G.); (F.M.)
| | - Beniamino Gioli
- Institute of Bioeconomy (IBE), National Research Council (CNR), Via Caproni 8, 50145 Florence, Italy; (C.C.); (A.C.); (L.G.); (F.M.)
- Correspondence:
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Conti V, Cantini C, Romi M, Cesare MM, Parrotta L, Del Duca S, Cai G. Distinct Tomato Cultivars Are Characterized by a Differential Pattern of Biochemical Responses to Drought Stress. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105412. [PMID: 35628226 PMCID: PMC9141555 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Future climate scenarios suggest that crop plants will experience environmental changes capable of affecting their productivity. Among the most harmful environmental stresses is drought, defined as a total or partial lack of water availability. It is essential to study and understand both the damage caused by drought on crop plants and the mechanisms implemented to tolerate the stress. In this study, we focused on four cultivars of tomato, an economically important crop in the Mediterranean basin. We investigated the biochemical mechanisms of plant defense against drought by focusing on proteins specifically involved in this stress, such as osmotin, dehydrin, and aquaporin, and on proteins involved in the general stress response, such as HSP70 and cyclophilins. Since sugars are also known to act as osmoprotectants in plant cells, proteins involved in sugar metabolism (such as RuBisCO and sucrose synthase) were also analyzed. The results show crucial differences in biochemical behavior among the selected cultivars and highlight that the most tolerant tomato cultivars adopt quite specific biochemical strategies such as different accumulations of aquaporins and osmotins. The data set also suggests that RuBisCO isoforms and aquaporins can be used as markers of tolerance/susceptibility to drought stress and be used to select tomato cultivars within breeding programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Conti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (M.M.C.); (G.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0577-232392
| | - Claudio Cantini
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Bioeconomy (CNR-IBE), 58022 Follonica, Italy;
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (M.M.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Maria Michela Cesare
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (M.M.C.); (G.C.)
| | - Luigi Parrotta
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.P.); (S.D.D.)
- Interdepartmental Centre for Agri-Food Industrial Research, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Stefano Del Duca
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.P.); (S.D.D.)
- Interdepartmental Centre for Agri-Food Industrial Research, University of Bologna, 47521 Cesena, Italy
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (M.M.C.); (G.C.)
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Conti V, Salusti P, Romi M, Cantini C. Effects of Drying Methods and Temperatures on the Quality of Chestnut Flours. Foods 2022; 11:foods11091364. [PMID: 35564087 PMCID: PMC9101811 DOI: 10.3390/foods11091364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The demand for chestnut flour is growing because of its use in gluten-free products. Previous studies have correlated the quality of chestnut flours to the drying temperature and technology applied. This work is a novel study on the role of the traditional drying method with a wood fire in a “metato” building for flour compared with a food dryer at 40 °C or 70 °C. The contents of antioxidants, total polyphenols and sugars were determined as well as the presence of toxic volatiles or aflatoxins. The flour, resulting from the traditional method, presented lower polyphenol content and antioxidant power compared to the others. The content of the sugars was similar to the flours obtained after drying with hot air, both at 40 °C and 70 °C. The toxic volatile molecules, furfural, guaiacol, and o-cresol, were found. There was no correlation between the aflatoxin content and the presence of damage in chestnut fruits. The traditional method should not be abandoned since it confers a pleasant smoky taste to the product, but it is necessary to regulate the level and steadiness of temperature. Future research needs to be directed to the quantification of harmful volatile compounds and their correlation with the quantity of smoke emitted by the wood fire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Conti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0577-232392
| | - Patrizia Salusti
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Bioeconomy (CNR-IBE), 58022 Follonica, Italy; (P.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Claudio Cantini
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Bioeconomy (CNR-IBE), 58022 Follonica, Italy; (P.S.); (C.C.)
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Francini A, Fidalgo-Illesca C, Raffaelli A, Romi M, Cantini C, Sebastiani L. Cocoa Bar Antioxidant Profile Enrichment with Underutilized Apples Varieties. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11040694. [PMID: 35453379 PMCID: PMC9025123 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11040694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of dried apples (Malus × domestica Borkh.) addition on improving the antioxidant characteristics of dark chocolate was evaluated. The antioxidant activity was measured through DPPH scavenging activity and showed an increase in the cocoa bar with ‘Nesta’ dry apple (17.3% vs. 46.8%) in comparison to cocoa mass. The 15 polyphenols analyzed by UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS indicated great variability among the apple varieties. Quercetin was detected in the highest concentrations (ranged from 753.3 to 1915.5 µg g−1), while the lowest were for kaempferol 7-O-glucoside, measured only in ‘Mora’ and ‘Nesta’ cocoa bars (from 0.034 to 0.069 µg g−1, respectively). P-coumaric acid, trans-ferulic acid, and chlorogenic acid contribute largely to the antioxidant activity in cocoa bars. Principal component analysis shows that a cocoa bar with the addition of ‘Nesta’ dry apple differ from others due to its higher content of polyphenols (1614 ± 61.8 mg gallic acid equivalents per 100 g). In conclusion, data confirm that cocoa bars with dry apples might be considered as a polyphenol-enriched food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Francini
- BioLabs, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (A.F.); (C.F.-I.); (A.R.)
| | - Carmen Fidalgo-Illesca
- BioLabs, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (A.F.); (C.F.-I.); (A.R.)
| | - Andrea Raffaelli
- BioLabs, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (A.F.); (C.F.-I.); (A.R.)
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Institute for BioEconomy, National Research Council of Italy, 58022 Follonica, Italy;
| | - Luca Sebastiani
- BioLabs, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (A.F.); (C.F.-I.); (A.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-883-070
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11
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Conti V, Romi M, Guarnieri M, Cantini C, Cai G. Italian Tomato Cultivars under Drought Stress Show Different Content of Bioactives in Pulp and Peel of Fruits. Foods 2022; 11:foods11030270. [PMID: 35159422 PMCID: PMC8834277 DOI: 10.3390/foods11030270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aims to evaluate the performance, in terms of accumulation of antioxidant compounds in fruits, of nine local and three commercial Italian tomato cultivars subjected to drought stress. The same local cultivars had been previously studied at morpho-physiological level. Methods: The present manuscript analyzes drought stress as a tool to increase the amount of secondary metabolites that can enhance fruit quality. Nutraceutical characterization of the fruits was performed by analyzing the content of antioxidants, phenols, flavonoids, lycopene, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), rutin, caffeic acid, and naringenin. At the same time, plant sensitivity to stress during the reproductive phase was monitored in terms of flower abscission, fruit drop, and seed germination. Results: Perina turns out to be the tomato cultivar with the best nutraceutical properties in the absence of stress while the Quarantino cultivar is so for flavonoid content (control plants) and lycopene and vitamin C content (stressed plants). Perina and Quarantino are the cultivars with the best response to drought and Perina has the highest concentrations of bioactives. Quarantino responds most effectively to stress in the reproductive phase. Conclusions: data confirm that drought stress increases bioactive production in some local cultivars of tomato, which produce higher quality fruits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Conti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (G.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0577-232392
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (G.C.)
| | - Massimo Guarnieri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (G.C.)
| | - Claudio Cantini
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Bioeconomy (CNR-IBE), 58022 Follonica, Italy;
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (G.C.)
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12
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Piccini C, Cai G, Dias MC, Araújo M, Parri S, Romi M, Faleri C, Cantini C. Olive Varieties under UV-B Stress Show Distinct Responses in Terms of Antioxidant Machinery and Isoform/Activity of RubisCO. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011214. [PMID: 34681874 PMCID: PMC8538740 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, atmospheric pollution led to a progressive reduction of the ozone layer with a consequent increase in UV-B radiation. Despite the high adaptation of olive trees to the Mediterranean environment, the progressive increase of UV-B radiation is a risk factor for olive tree cultivation. It is therefore necessary to understand how high levels of UV-B radiation affect olive plants and to identify olive varieties which are better adapted. In this study we analyzed two Italian olive varieties subjected to chronic UV-B stress. We focused on the effects of UV-B radiation on RubisCO, in terms of quantity, enzymatic activity and isoform composition. In addition, we also analyzed changes in the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPox) to get a comprehensive picture of the antioxidant system. We also evaluated the effects of UV-B on the enzyme sucrose synthase. The overall damage at biochemical level was also assessed by analyzing changes in Hsp70, a protein triggered under stress conditions. The results of this work indicate that the varieties (Giarraffa and Olivastra Seggianese) differ significantly in the use of specific antioxidant defense systems, as well as in the activity and isoform composition of RubisCO. Combined with a different use of sucrose synthase, the overall picture shows that Giarraffa optimized the use of GPox and opted for a targeted choice of RubisCO isoforms, in addition to managing the content of sucrose synthase, thereby saving energy during critical stress points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Piccini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.P.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (C.F.)
- Institute for BioEconomy, National Research Council of Italy, 58022 Follonica, Italy;
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.P.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (C.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-057-723-2392; Fax: +39-057-723-2861
| | - Maria Celeste Dias
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal; (M.C.D.); (M.A.)
| | - Márcia Araújo
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal; (M.C.D.); (M.A.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
- CITAB, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Sara Parri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.P.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (C.F.)
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.P.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (C.F.)
| | - Claudia Faleri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.P.); (S.P.); (M.R.); (C.F.)
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Institute for BioEconomy, National Research Council of Italy, 58022 Follonica, Italy;
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13
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Conti V, Romi M, Parri S, Aloisi I, Marino G, Cai G, Cantini C. Morpho-Physiological Classification of Italian Tomato Cultivars ( Solanum lycopersicum L.) According to Drought Tolerance during Vegetative and Reproductive Growth. Plants (Basel) 2021; 10:plants10091826. [PMID: 34579359 PMCID: PMC8468351 DOI: 10.3390/plants10091826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Irrigation is fundamental for agriculture but, as climate change becomes more persistent, there is a need to conserve water and use it more efficiently. It is therefore crucial to identify cultivars that can tolerate drought. For economically relevant crops, such as tomatoes, this purpose takes on an even more incisive role and local agrobiodiversity is a large genetic reservoir of promising cultivars. In this study, nine local Italian cultivars of tomatoes plus four widely used commercial cultivars were considered. These experienced about 20 d of drought, either at vegetative or reproductive phase. Various physio-morphological parameters were monitored, such as stomatal conductance (gs), photosynthesis (A), water use efficiency (WUE), growth (GI) and soil water content (SWC). The different responses and behaviors allowed to divide the cultivars into three groups: tolerant, susceptible, and intermediate. The classification was also confirmed by a principal component analysis (PCA). The study, in addition to deepening the knowledge of local Italian tomato cultivars, reveals how some cultivars perform better under stress condition than commercial ones. Moreover, the different behavior depends on the genotype and on the growth phase of plants. In fact, the Perina cultivar is the most tolerant during vegetative growth while the Quarantino cultivar is mostly tolerant at reproductive stage. The results suggest that selection of cultivars could lead to a more sustainable agriculture and less wasteful irrigation plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Conti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (S.P.); (G.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0577-232392
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (S.P.); (G.C.)
| | - Sara Parri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (S.P.); (G.C.)
| | - Iris Aloisi
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Marino
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Sustainable Plant Protection (CNR-IPSP), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy;
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.R.); (S.P.); (G.C.)
| | - Claudio Cantini
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Bioeconomy (CNR-IBE), 58022 Follonica, Italy;
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14
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Berni R, Charton S, Planchon S, Legay S, Romi M, Cantini C, Cai G, Hausman JF, Renaut J, Guerriero G. Molecular investigation of Tuscan sweet cherries sampled over three years: gene expression analysis coupled to metabolomics and proteomics. Hortic Res 2021; 8:12. [PMID: 33384418 PMCID: PMC7775447 DOI: 10.1038/s41438-020-00445-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) is a stone fruit widely consumed and appreciated for its organoleptic properties, as well as its nutraceutical potential. We here investigated the characteristics of six non-commercial Tuscan varieties of sweet cherry maintained at the Regional Germplasm Bank of the CNR-IBE in Follonica (Italy) and sampled ca. 60 days post-anthesis over three consecutive years (2016-2017-2018). We adopted an approach merging genotyping and targeted gene expression profiling with metabolomics. To complement the data, a study of the soluble proteomes was also performed on two varieties showing the highest content of flavonoids. Metabolomics identified the presence of flavanols and proanthocyanidins in highest abundance in the varieties Morellona and Crognola, while gene expression revealed that some differences were present in genes involved in the phenylpropanoid pathway during the 3 years and among the varieties. Finally, proteomics on Morellona and Crognola showed variations in proteins involved in stress response, primary metabolism and cell wall expansion. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first multi-pronged study focused on Tuscan sweet cherry varieties providing insights into the differential abundance of genes, proteins and metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Berni
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, I-53100, Siena, Italy
- TERRA Teaching and Research Center, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, 5030, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Sophie Charton
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 41, Rue du Brill, L-4422, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Sébastien Planchon
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 41, Rue du Brill, L-4422, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Sylvain Legay
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5, rue Bommel, L-4940, Hautcharage, Luxembourg
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, I-53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Istituto per la BioEconomia (IBE CNR), Dipartimento di Scienze BioAgroAlimentari, via Aurelia 49, 58022, Follonica, Italy
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, I-53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Jean-Francois Hausman
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5, rue Bommel, L-4940, Hautcharage, Luxembourg
| | - Jenny Renaut
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 41, Rue du Brill, L-4422, Belvaux, Luxembourg.
| | - Gea Guerriero
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5, rue Bommel, L-4940, Hautcharage, Luxembourg.
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15
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Conti V, Mareri L, Faleri C, Nepi M, Romi M, Cai G, Cantini C. Drought Stress Affects the Response of Italian Local Tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum L.) Varieties in a Genotype-Dependent Manner. Plants (Basel) 2019; 8:E336. [PMID: 31500309 PMCID: PMC6783988 DOI: 10.3390/plants8090336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Drought stress is one of the most severe conditions for plants, especially in the face of the emerging problem of global warming. This issue is important when considering economically relevant crops, including the tomato. For these plants, a promising solution is the valorization of local agrobiodiversity as a source of genetic variability. In this paper we investigated how six Italian tomato varieties react to a prolonged period of water depletion. We used a multidisciplinary approach, from genetics to plant physiology and cytology, to provide a detailed overview of the response of plants to stress. The varieties analyzed, each characterized by a specific genetic profile, showed a genotype-specific response with the variety 'Fragola' being the most resistant and the variety 'Pisanello' the most susceptible. For all the parameters evaluated, 'Fragola' performed in a manner comparable to that of control plants. On the contrary, 'Pisanello' appeared to be more affected and showed an increase in the number of stomata and a drastic increase in antioxidants, a symptom of acute oxidative stress. Our work suggests the existence of a valuable reservoir of genetic biodiversity with more drought-tolerant tomato genotypes opening the way to further exploitation and use of local germplasm in breeding programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Conti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, SI 53100, Italy.
| | - Lavinia Mareri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, SI 53100, Italy.
| | - Claudia Faleri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, SI 53100, Italy.
| | - Massimo Nepi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, SI 53100, Italy.
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, SI 53100, Italy.
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, SI 53100, Italy.
| | - Claudio Cantini
- CNR-IBE (Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche-Istituto per la Bioeconomia), Follonica, GR 58022, Italy.
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16
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Felice F, Francini A, Domenici V, Cifelli M, Belardinelli E, Sebastiani L, Cantini C, Di Stefano R. Effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Apples Enriched-Dark Chocolate on Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Patients with Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Randomized Cross-Over Trial. Antioxidants (Basel) 2019; 8:antiox8040088. [PMID: 30987385 PMCID: PMC6523981 DOI: 10.3390/antiox8040088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Endothelial dysfunction has been associated to cardiovascular outcomes in patients with cardiovascular risk factors. Circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play an important physiological role for their reparative potential of vascular integrity, but are numerically reduced and functionally impaired in patients with cardiovascular risks. This study assesses the effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) and apple-enriched dark chocolate intake on the blood levels of EPCs. Methods: Thirty volunteers with cardiovascular risk factors, enrolled in a randomised, crossover, four-weeks trial, received a solid dark chocolate bar (40 g/day) containing 10% EVOO or 2.5% dry apples. Urine samples were analyzed for endogenous metabolites. Circulating EPCs levels, clinical data and anthropometric examinations were collected. Results: 26 volunteers (M/F:14/12, 51 ± 9 years of age) completed the study. Comparison of pre-post intervention revealed a significant increase in EPCs levels associated with EVOO-dark chocolate consumption. Most biochemical parameters were not significantly modified by both chocolates. Conclusions: This study shows that a daily consumption of a non fattening dose of dark chocolate enriched with EVOO improves blood levels of EPCs, a well known surrogate biologic marker for endothelial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Felice
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Francini
- BioLabs, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Valentina Domenici
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Mario Cifelli
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Ester Belardinelli
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Luca Sebastiani
- BioLabs, Institute of Life Sciences, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Trees and Timber Institute, IVALSA-CNR, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy.
| | - Rossella Di Stefano
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy.
- Interdepartmental Research Center "Nutraceuticals and Food for Health", University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy.
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17
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Berni R, Cantini C, Guarnieri M, Nepi M, Hausman JF, Guerriero G, Romi M, Cai G. Nutraceutical Characteristics of Ancient Malus x domestica Borkh. Fruits Recovered across Siena in Tuscany. Medicines (Basel) 2019; 6:E27. [PMID: 30781616 PMCID: PMC6473857 DOI: 10.3390/medicines6010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 02/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables contributes to lowering the risk of chronic diseases. The fruits of Malus x domestica are a rich dietary source of bioactive compounds, namely vitamins and antioxidants, with recognized action on human health protection. Tuscany is known for its rich plant biodiversity, especially represented by ancient varieties of fruit trees. Particularly noteworthy are the many ancient Tuscan varieties of apple trees. Methods: Sugar quantification via HPLC and spectrophotometric assays to quantify the antioxidant power and total polyphenol content revealed interesting differences in 17 old varieties of Malus x domestica Borkh. recovered in Siena (Tuscany). Results: The quantification of antioxidants, polyphenols, and the main free sugars revealed that their content in the old fruits was often superior to the widespread commercial counterparts ('Red Delicious' and 'Golden Delicious'). Such differences were, in certain cases, dramatic, with 8-fold higher values. Differences were also present for sugars and fibers (pectin). Most ancient fruits displayed low values of glucose and high contents of xylitol and pectin. Conclusions: The results reported here suggest the possible use of ancient apple varieties from Siena for nutraceutical purposes and draw attention to the valorization of local old varieties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Berni
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy.
- Trees and Timber Institute-National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA), I-58022 Follonica, Italy.
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Trees and Timber Institute-National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA), I-58022 Follonica, Italy.
| | - Massimo Guarnieri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Massimo Nepi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Jean-Francois Hausman
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Gea Guerriero
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy.
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18
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Aprea E, Gasperi F, Betta E, Sani G, Cantini C. Variability in volatile compounds from lipoxygenase pathway in extra virgin olive oils from Tuscan olive germoplasm by quantitative SPME/GC-MS. J Mass Spectrom 2018; 53:824-832. [PMID: 30062818 DOI: 10.1002/jms.4274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A quantitative method, based on SPME GC-MS, for the quantification of volatile compounds derived from lipoxygenase pathway, considered the most important for the aroma of high-quality olive oil, was developed. The method was used to study the variation within the extra virgin olive oils from 67 cultivars of the Tuscan olive germplasm conserved at "Santa Paolina" experimental farm (Follonica, Italy). A great variability was observed among the 67 cultivars both for the total amount of volatile compounds and for the different ratios between the groups of volatile compounds from common precursors. The aim was to obtain basic information on the characteristics and the quality of the oils obtainable from nonwidely cultivated olive varieties. These data can support the reintroduction in the production chain of old autochthonous varieties and for exploitation in breeding programs as a source of positive characters to transmit to the progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Aprea
- Fondazione Edmund Mach, Food Quality and Nutrition Department, IASMA Research and Innovation Centre, Via E. Mach, 1, 38010, S. Michele a/A, Italy
| | - Flavia Gasperi
- Fondazione Edmund Mach, Food Quality and Nutrition Department, IASMA Research and Innovation Centre, Via E. Mach, 1, 38010, S. Michele a/A, Italy
| | - Emanuela Betta
- Fondazione Edmund Mach, Food Quality and Nutrition Department, IASMA Research and Innovation Centre, Via E. Mach, 1, 38010, S. Michele a/A, Italy
| | - Graziano Sani
- Trees and Timber Institute-National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA) Via Aurelia 49, 58022, Follonica, Italy
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Trees and Timber Institute-National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA) Via Aurelia 49, 58022, Follonica, Italy
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19
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Berni R, Cantini C, Romi M, Hausman JF, Guerriero G, Cai G. Agrobiotechnology Goes Wild: Ancient Local Varieties as Sources of Bioactives. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2248. [PMID: 30071603 PMCID: PMC6121869 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification and use of species that have best adapted to their growth territory is of paramount importance to preserve biodiversity while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Parameters including resistance to natural conditions (biotic and abiotic risk factors), biomass and fruit productivity, and phytochemical content with nutraceutical potential, could be used as quantitative markers of the adaptability of plants to wild environments characterized by minimal human impact. Ancient varieties, which are plant varieties growing in regional territories and not destined for market distribution, are a source of unique genetic characters derived from many years of adaptation to the original territory. These plants are often more resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses. In addition, these varieties have a high phytochemical (also known as bioactives) content considered health-beneficial. Notably, the content of these compounds is often lower in commercial cultivars. The use of selected territorial varieties according to the cultivation area represents an opportunity in the agricultural sector in terms of biodiversity preservation, environmental sustainability, and valorization of the final products. Our survey highlights the nutraceutical potential of ancient local varieties and stresses the importance of holistic studies (-omics) to investigate their physiology and secondary metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Berni
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Trees and Timber Institute-National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA), via Aurelia 49, 58022 Follonica (GR), Italy.
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Trees and Timber Institute-National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA), via Aurelia 49, 58022 Follonica (GR), Italy.
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Jean-Francois Hausman
- Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Gea Guerriero
- Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5 Avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
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Guerriero G, Berni R, Muñoz-Sanchez JA, Apone F, Abdel-Salam EM, Qahtan AA, Alatar AA, Cantini C, Cai G, Hausman JF, Siddiqui KS, Hernández-Sotomayor SMT, Faisal M. Production of Plant Secondary Metabolites: Examples, Tips and Suggestions for Biotechnologists. Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:E309. [PMID: 29925808 PMCID: PMC6027220 DOI: 10.3390/genes9060309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Plants are sessile organisms and, in order to defend themselves against exogenous (a)biotic constraints, they synthesize an array of secondary metabolites which have important physiological and ecological effects. Plant secondary metabolites can be classified into four major classes: terpenoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids and sulphur-containing compounds. These phytochemicals can be antimicrobial, act as attractants/repellents, or as deterrents against herbivores. The synthesis of such a rich variety of phytochemicals is also observed in undifferentiated plant cells under laboratory conditions and can be further induced with elicitors or by feeding precursors. In this review, we discuss the recent literature on the production of representatives of three plant secondary metabolite classes: artemisinin (a sesquiterpene), lignans (phenolic compounds) and caffeine (an alkaloid). Their respective production in well-known plants, i.e., Artemisia, Coffea arabica L., as well as neglected species, like the fibre-producing plant Urtica dioica L., will be surveyed. The production of artemisinin and caffeine in heterologous hosts will also be discussed. Additionally, metabolic engineering strategies to increase the bioactivity and stability of plant secondary metabolites will be surveyed, by focusing on glycosyltransferases (GTs). We end our review by proposing strategies to enhance the production of plant secondary metabolites in cell cultures by inducing cell wall modifications with chemicals/drugs, or with altered concentrations of the micronutrient boron and the quasi-essential element silicon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gea Guerriero
- Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5 avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Roberto Berni
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Trees and timber institute-National research council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA), via Aurelia 49, 58022 Follonica (GR), Italy.
| | - J Armando Muñoz-Sanchez
- Unidad de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular de Plantas, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán, Calle 43 # 130 X 32 y 34, Col. Chuburná de Hidalgo, Mérida, Yucatán 97205, Mexico.
| | - Fabio Apone
- Arterra Biosciences srl/Vitalab srl, via B. Brin 69, 80142 Naples, Italy.
| | - Eslam M Abdel-Salam
- Department of Botany & Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ahmad A Qahtan
- Department of Botany & Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Abdulrahman A Alatar
- Department of Botany & Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Trees and timber institute-National research council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA), via Aurelia 49, 58022 Follonica (GR), Italy.
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Jean-Francois Hausman
- Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, 5 avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch/Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - Khawar Sohail Siddiqui
- Life Sciences Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), 31261 Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.
| | - S M Teresa Hernández-Sotomayor
- Unidad de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular de Plantas, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán, Calle 43 # 130 X 32 y 34, Col. Chuburná de Hidalgo, Mérida, Yucatán 97205, Mexico.
| | - Mohammad Faisal
- Department of Botany & Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
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Cella MC, Fibbi G, Cantini C, Del Panta Z, Vannucchi S, Del Rosso M, Cappelletti R, Chiarugi VP, Crisci C. Intercellular Glycosaminoglycans in Human Cancer. Tumori 2018; 65:677-86. [PMID: 120629 DOI: 10.1177/030089167906500603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Intercellular glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) from various tissues were analyzed by cellulose acetate electrophoresis and enzymatic treatment with specific mucopolysaccharidases. Each tissue exhibits a particular composition of sulfated and unsulfated molecular species. Invariably, malignant human neoplasias and their metastases show striking variations in the electrophoretic pattern typical of the corresponding normal tissue. An absolute or relative increase in surface ChS A/C and HA seems to be a consistent feature of neoplastic transformation. On the other hand, the GAGs composition of benign noninfiltrative tumors does not vary greatly with respect to the original normal tissue.
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Morrone L, Neri L, Cantini C, Alfei B, Rotondi A. Study of the combined effects of ripeness and production area on Bosana oil’s quality. Food Chem 2018; 245:1098-1104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.11.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Berni R, Romi M, Cantini C, Hausman JF, Guerriero G, Cai G. Functional Molecules in Locally-Adapted Crops: The Case Study of Tomatoes, Onions, and Sweet Cherry Fruits From Tuscany in Italy. Front Plant Sci 2018; 9:1983. [PMID: 30697223 PMCID: PMC6341061 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2018.01983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The human diet is characterized by highly energetic molecules, but it also requires non-energetic compounds that are equally useful for cell functioning and for preserving the organism's health status. These "functional" molecules are represented by a wide variety of plant secondary metabolites, such as terpenoids, vitamins and polyphenols with antioxidant power. Widespread commercial crop varieties often contain scarce levels of functional molecules, because they have been mostly selected for productivity, rather than for the content of secondary metabolites. Different scenarios (global economic situation, foreseeable environmental changes) are pushing farmers to review the use of high yield crops and to focus on the valorization of locally-adapted plants. This renewed interest is strengthened by the growing need of consumers for functional foods with beneficial effects on human health and by the willingness to promote sustainable low-input agricultural practices exploiting local climate, soil, water, and (micro)biota. Here, we want to discuss a specific case study concerning locally-adapted crops in Tuscany (Italy). Analyses of nutraceutical molecules in locally-grown crop varieties (namely tomatoes, sweet cherries and onions) have shown that they are characterized by substantially higher functional molecule contents than commercial varieties. Our goal is to promote the high-throughput study of locally-adapted varieties to understand, in a medium-term perspective, whether the cultivation of such plants is a valuable support for the diet and an adequate local economic resource. Such plants can provide a boost to the regional economy, by diversifying the local crop-market landscape. Moreover, the exploitation of locally-grown plants results in the manufacture of fully-traceable products (from the raw bioresource to the finished product) with a "0 km" concept that minimizes the C footprint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Berni
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Trees and Timber Institute-National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA), Follonica, Italy
| | - Marco Romi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Trees and Timber Institute-National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA), Follonica, Italy
| | - Jean-Francois Hausman
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Gea Guerriero
- Environmental Research and Innovation Department, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Giampiero Cai
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giampiero Cai
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Cantini C, Salusti P, Romi M, Francini A, Sebastiani L. Sensory profiling and consumer acceptability of new dark cocoa bars containing Tuscan autochthonous food products. Food Sci Nutr 2017; 6:245-252. [PMID: 29564089 PMCID: PMC5849900 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A new set of cocoa bars named Toscolata® were developed containing top‐quality extra virgin olive oil, dried apples cultivars, and chestnut flour. The present work has been conducted to define the sensory profile of these products through tasting by trained experts and consumers to study the acceptability, preference, and quality perception. The four sensorial profiles of the bars differed in the level of persistence, bitterness, aromaticity, acidity, astringency, and tastiness. In particular, the sour attribute could be traced to the presence of dried apple. Bars containing apple and chestnut flour obtained higher acceptance ratings, compared to those with extra virgin olive oil. The bar with chestnut flour was preferred by consumers who considered it to be sweeter due to the presence of natural sugars, which lowered the bitter sensation of cocoa. These results showed that the selection of the preferred bar by consumers was mainly based on the level of bitterness and, in particular, elderly consumers expressed a strong preference for the sweetest product. As far as we know, this is the first study comparing the results of a panel of expert tasters with that of consumers in the tasting of dark chocolate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Cantini
- Trees and Timber Institute - National Research Council of Italy CNR-IVALSA Follonica Italy
| | - Patrizia Salusti
- Trees and Timber Institute - National Research Council of Italy CNR-IVALSA Follonica Italy
| | - Marco Romi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita Università degli Studi di Siena Siena Italy
| | | | - Luca Sebastiani
- Institute of Life Sciences Scuola Superiore Sant' Anna Pisa Italy
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Di Stefano R, Felice F, Belardinelli E, Domenici V, Cifelli M, Sebastiani L, Francini A, Di Bello V, Romi M, Cantini C. P5319Extra virgin olive oil and apples enriched-dark chocolate consumption and endothelial function: a randomized crossover trial in patients with cardiovascular risk factors. Eur Heart J 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehx493.p5319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Morozova K, Aprea E, Cantini C, Migliorini M, Gasperi F, Scampicchio M. Determination of Bitterness of Extra Virgin Olive Oils by Amperometric Detection. ELECTROANAL 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/elan.201600067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ksenia Morozova
- Free University of Bolzano; Faculty of Science and Technology; Piazza Università, 1 39100 Bolzano Italy
| | - Eugenio Aprea
- Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre; Fondazione Edmund Mach (FEM); via E. Mach 1 38010 San Michele all'Adige (TN Italy
| | - Claudio Cantini
- Trees and Timber Institute; National Research Council of Italy via Aurelia 49; 58022 Follonica Italy
| | - Marzia Migliorini
- PromoFirenze - Azienda Speciale della Camera di Commercio di Firenze; Laboratorio Chimico Merceologico - Via Orcagna; 70-50121 Firenze Italy
| | - Flavia Gasperi
- Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre; Fondazione Edmund Mach (FEM); via E. Mach 1 38010 San Michele all'Adige (TN Italy
| | - Matteo Scampicchio
- Free University of Bolzano; Faculty of Science and Technology; Piazza Università, 1 39100 Bolzano Italy
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Mossello E, Pieraccioli M, Nesti N, Bulgaresi M, Lorenzi C, Caleri V, Tonon E, Cavallini M, Baroncini C, Simoni D, Ballini E, Cantini C, Biagini C, Marchionni N, Ungar A. O3.14: Can aggressive antihypertensive treatment impact negatively on older subjects with cognitive impairment? Eur Geriatr Med 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s1878-7649(14)70142-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Nesti N, Pieraccioli M, Mossello E, Caleri V, Tonon E, Cantini C, Bulgaresi M, Sgrilli F, Nreu B, Fedeli A, Biagini C, Ungar A, Marchionni N. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and cognitive impairment in the elderly: Follow-up analysis. Eur Geriatr Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurger.2012.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Pieraccioli M, Mossello E, Nesti N, Bulgaresi M, Caleri V, Tonon E, Mello A, Baroncini C, Zaffarana N, Cavallini M, Cantini C, Bencini F, Biagini C, Marchionni N, Ungar A. Low ambulatory blood pressure as predictor of cognitive decline in older subjects with dementia or mild cognitive impairment. Eur Geriatr Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurger.2012.07.357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Romani A, Lapucci C, Cantini C, Ieri F, Mulinacci N, Visioli F. Evolution of minor polar compounds and antioxidant capacity during storage of bottled extra virgin olive oil. J Agric Food Chem 2007; 55:1315-20. [PMID: 17253709 DOI: 10.1021/jf062335r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
We characterized "Olivastra Seggianese" extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and evaluated its chemical and sensory characteristics and antioxidant and antiradical activities during storage under novel conditions. Two oils (A and B) were analyzed for the commodity characteristics at blending (t0) and after 9, 12, and 18 months; panel tests were performed and minor polar compounds (MPC) content was assessed at blending (t0) and after 6, 9, 12, and 18 months. Antioxidant and antiradical activities in vitro were evaluated at t0 and after 12 months, by human low density lipoprotein (LDL) and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazil radical (DPPH*) tests. Oil A, which had an initially higher MPC content, possessed "harder" organoleptic characteristics than oil B, which had a lower MPC content and was endowed with a "smoother" taste profile. Statistical analyses showed that secoiridoids, particularly deacetoxy-oleuropein aglycone, should be quantified to evaluate EVOO stability during storage. The antioxidant activity toward human LDL was linked to MPC content and to storage time. The tests on the stable free radical DPPH* confirmed the results on human LDL. We propose this as an additional parameter to evaluate olive oil quality and stability over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Romani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
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Aprea E, Biasioli F, Sani G, Cantini C, Märk TD, Gasperi F. Proton transfer reaction-mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) headspace analysis for rapid detection of oxidative alteration of olive oil. J Agric Food Chem 2006; 54:7635-40. [PMID: 17002433 DOI: 10.1021/jf060970r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Olive oil has been characterized by rapid proton transfer reaction-mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) headspace analysis without any concentration of the volatiles or pretreatment of the samples. Comparison of extra virgin and defective (rancid) samples, as described by a panel of sensory judges, and the monitoring of thermo-oxidation processes are discussed. Multivariate analysis of PTR-MS data has been carried out and cross-validated, providing (i) reliable classification models for extra virgin oil as opposed to defective oil and (ii) calibration models able to predict independently thermo-oxidative degradation and the corresponding peroxide value. PTR-MS fragmentation patterns of volatiles considered in this study are also reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Aprea
- Agri-Food Quality Department, IASMA Research Center, Via E. Mach 1, 38010 San Michele all'Adige (TN), Italy.
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Romani A, Pinelli P, Cantini C, Cimato A, Heimler D. Characterization of Violetto di Toscana, a typical Italian variety of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.). Food Chem 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2005.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Mossello E, Tonon E, Caleri V, Tilli S, Cantini C, Cavallini MC, Bencini F, Mecacci R, Marini M, Bardelli F, Sarcone E, Razzi E, Biagini CA, Masotti G. EFFECTIVENESS AND SAFETY OF CHOLINESTERASE INHIBITORS IN ELDERLY SUBJECTS WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE: A “REAL WORLD” STUDY. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2004:297-307. [PMID: 15207427 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2004.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEI) in improving cognitive status and disability in subjects with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, little is known about the effectiveness of ChEI in clinical practice, and no large clinical trials comparing different ChEI are available at present. Aim of this study was to evaluate safety and effectiveness of ChEI in a sample of elderly outpatients diagnosed with mild to moderate AD. We selected 407 subjects for ChEI treatment (donepezil,rivastigmine or galantamine). Their cognitive function was evaluated by means of the mini mental state examination (MMSE), and the global functional status was estimated by using the activities of daily living (ADL) and the instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) scales at baseline (To), then after 1 (T1), 3 (T2) and 9 months (T3), respectively. T3 follow-up was completed by 212 subjects. The patients were considered as responders (R), if the MMSEscore at T2 was unchanged or improved, if compared to that of T0. In 35 patients (8.6 %)treatment was withdrawn because of mostly gastrointestinal adverse events. Compared to the other drugs, donepezil was associated with a lower incidence of withdrawals due to adverse events. Subjects who completed T3 follow-up (age 78 +/- 6 years, MMSE scores 18.8 +/- 3.9) showed an increase at T2 of 0.7 +/- 2.7 (p = 0.001) and a decrease at T3 of -0.6 +/- 3.4 (p = 0.008) in the MMSE scores, as compared to To . The ADL and IADL scores did not show significant changes at T2; however, both decreased significantly at T3. The patients Rat-T2 showed a better cognitive and functional outcome at T3 , compared to the nonresponders(NR-at-T2), displaying values of MMSE R-at-T2 0.4 +/- 3.1 vs. NR-at-T2 -3.0 +/- 2.5, p = 0.001, and ADL values of -0.3 +/- 1.2 vs. -0.7 +/- 1.3, p = 0.03, respectively. No significant difference was found in the changes of MMSE scores between donepezil and rivastigmine (galantamine was not included in the comparison due to the small number of treated subjects). In conclusion, in this sample of elderly subjects with mild to moderate AD,treated with ChEI, a small but significant decline in cognitive and functional status was observed after 9 months. Subjects who showed a good response to treatment after 3 months, had a better cognitive and functional outcome at 9 months. No significant difference in cognitive outcome was found between drugs, while donepezil was better tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Mossello
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Florence, A.O. Careggi, I-50141 Firenze, Italy
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Di Serio C, Cristofari C, Torrini M, Cantini C, Lambertucci L, Castellani S, Masotti G, Ungar A. Renal adaptive mechanisms in aged and hypertensive humans: possible effects of treatment. Med Sci Monit 2001; 7:1203-11. [PMID: 11687731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the aging kidney renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate are reduced due to glomerulosclerosis. On this regard, hypertension has synergistic effects and may lead to end-stage renal disease in a significant proportion of cases. MATERIAL AND METHODS To study the effects of antihypertensive drugs in an acute setting, we expressly designed an acute experiment to assess the renal response to mental stress (MS). In healthy elderly, the response was characterized by a prolonged and pronounced renal vasoconstriction, due to a reduction in renal autacoid modulatory capacity, particularly of prostaglandins. In older patients with isolated systolic hypertension, the response to MS was impaired, being characterized by a passive vasodilation with hyperfiltration. The effects of antihypertensive drugs were evaluated twice in adults patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension: after two weeks of pharmacological wash-out and after two weeks of treatment with the ACE-inhibitor trandolapril (4 mg), or the non-dihydropyridinic Ca2+ channel blocker verapamil (240 mg), or both (2 mg + 180 mg). RESULTS While the three antihypertensive regimens reduced blood pressure to a similar extent, their effects on the renal response to MS were different. Each regimen re-established a renal vasoconstrictive response to adrenergic activation. However, with trandolapril, renal vasoconstriction was limited, as it occurs physiologically, to the period of blood pressure rise, while verapamil, or the combination of the two drugs, were associated with more prolonged vasoconstriction. CONCLUSIONS Further studies are needed to confirm the nephroprotective effects of these drugs, particularly of ACE-inhibitors. These data may be a pathophysiological basis for future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Di Serio
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Gerontology and Geriatrics, University of Florence, Azienda Ospedaliera Careggi, Florence, Italy
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Cantini C, Kieffer P, Corman B, Limiñana P, Atkinson J, Lartaud-Idjouadiene I. Aminoguanidine and aortic wall mechanics, structure, and composition in aged rats. Hypertension 2001; 38:943-8. [PMID: 11641314 DOI: 10.1161/hy1001.096211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
With aging, the aortic wall becomes stiffer. This could be because of changes in wall stress or composition. We investigated whether a specific change in wall composition, ie, accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on the extracellular matrix, is a major factor. We measured aortic mechanics, geometry, and composition in 3-, 10-, 15-, 20-, and 30-month-old inbred normotensive Wistar-Glaxo/Rijswick rats and in a group of 30-month-old rats treated from 20 months onward with aminoguanidine (AG, 42 mg/kg per day), an inhibitor of AGE formation. Thoracoabdominal aortic (pressure) pulse-wave velocity (PWV) increased progressively with age (44% from 3 to 30 months). This age-related increase in aortic PWV was not related to changes in wall stress. For all ages, central (and peripheral) aortic mean blood pressures were not statistically different. Dilatation occurred (18% increase in internal diameter from 3 to 30 months), but this was accompanied by outward hypertrophic remodeling, with an increase in the medial cross-sectional area of 95% and in the ratio of medial thickness to internal diameter of 29%. Wall stress decreased with age (-34%). There was an increase in the ratio of elastic modulus (calculated from the Moens-Korteweg equation) to wall stress (calculated from the Lamé equation, 117% from 3 to 30 months), suggesting that a change in the composition of the wall is responsible for the age-linked increase in wall stiffness. Dry weight decreased slightly but significantly (-14%) with age. Total protein, elastin, collagen, and nonscleroprotein protein [total-(elastin+collagen)] contents did not change with age, but calculated densities of all 4 were halved (as the medial cross-sectional area doubled). The elastin/collagen ratio was statistically similar at all ages. The only significant effect of AG treatment was a fall in PWV (-20%), leading to a fall in the elastic modulus/wall stress ratio (-27% at 10 months of AG treatment versus 30 months of no treatment). In conclusion, the age-related increase in aortic wall stiffness is prevented by 10 months of treatment with AG, which has no effect on wall stress or composition, suggesting that AG may improve aortic wall stiffness by lowering the degree of AGE-induced cross-linking of the extracellular matrix scleroproteins, such as collagen.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Cantini
- Laboratoire de Pharmacologie Cardiovasculaire, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Henri Poincaré-Nancy 1, Nancy, France
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Vallotti B, Mossello E, Cantini C, Moretti G, Fumagalli S, Caleri V, Ungar A, Bruscoli M, Tilli S, Masotti G. Determinants of functional status in Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Arch Gerontol Geriatr Suppl 2001; 7:419-28. [PMID: 11431094 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-4943(01)00169-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- B Vallotti
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Florence, Azienda Ospedaliera Careggi, Firenze, Italy
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Ungar A, Cristofari C, Torrini M, Di Serio C, Cantini C, Vallotti B, La Cava G, Castellani S, Masotti G. Changes in renal autacoids in aged human hypertensives. J Physiol Pharmacol 2000; 51:619-30. [PMID: 11192936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
The aging process determines several modifications of the kidney, that, however, do not provoke any dysfunction in normal conditions. But in the elderly--in the presence of stressful situations and particularly when adrenergic activation is present--the kidney is more vulnerable than in the young, and renal failure may arise. Variations typical of the aging kidney are accelerated when hypertension overlaps the physiological renal process, because both senescence and hypertension weight on the same structures, i.e. glomeruli. We studied renal hemodynamic adaptation capacity both in the healthy elderly and in patients affected by isolated systolic hypertension, in an acute experiment which requires the application of a mental stress-induced adrenergic activation. In hypertensive patients we have already demonstrated a total lack of renal adaptation capacity. In fact, while the elderly normotensives react with a prolonged and pronounced vasoconstriction, in those with isolated systolic hypertension, adrenergic activation induces a passive renal vasodilation and glomerular hyperfiltration. The anomalous adaptation capacity of renal hemodynamics is probably due to an impairment in the paracrine response of renal vasculature. Indeed in the hypertensive elderly, unlike in the normotensive one, no variations of autacoid production occur during the adrenergic activation. Following on from this, pattients affected by isolated systolic hypertension passively suffer the many hypertensive peaks which characterize their every day life. The altered renal autoregulation of the elderly with isolated systolic hypertension may explain the accelerated glomerulosclerosis and the greater incidence of renal damage and end-stage renal disease which characterize this condition. These aspects underline the primary role of the antihypertensive treatment of isolated systolic hypertension, not only for the prevention of cardiovascular mortality but also of renal damage and/or end-stage renal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ungar
- Dipartimento di Area Critica Medico Chirurgica, Università degli Studi di Firenze e Azienda Ospedaliera Careggi, Italy.
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Ungar A, Castellani S, Di Serio C, Cantini C, Cristofari C, Vallotti B, La Cava G, Masotti G. Changes in renal autacoids and hemodynamics associated with aging and isolated systolic hypertension. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2000; 62:117-33. [PMID: 10938406 DOI: 10.1016/s0090-6980(00)00077-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aging kidney is characterized by a decrease in renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate mainly due to glomerulosclerosis. Nevertheless, even in the presence of these changes, the kidney maintains its functionality until advanced age. However, there is a tendency towards greater renal vasoconstriction in the elderly as compared with young individuals. This occurs either in physiological circumstances such as physical exercise, or in disease manifestations, such as the effective circulatory volume depletion that develops, for example, in heart failure. This tendency may be secondary to the reduction of renal autacoid modulatory capacity, particularly at the vasodilating prostaglandin level. In an acute experimental model we could demonstrate that, in the healthy elderly, the renal response to adrenergic activation by mental stress is characterized by a prolonged and pronounced vasoconstriction. In addition to this, in elderly patients affected by isolated systolic hypertension, we demonstrated an impairment of renal hemodynamic and humoral adaptation capacity in response to adrenergic activation and blood pressure increase. In the presence of sudden blood pressure increase, the kidney of these patients responds with a passive vasodilation and a glomerular filtration rate increase without any activation of humoral modulatory substances. The impairment in renal adaptation capacity may predispose these patients to renal injury, particularly in the presence of the many hypertensive peaks which characterize everyday life of elderly individuals. In conclusion, these results show that renal adaptation capacity of elderly patients with isolated systolic hypertension is completely lost. Further studies will elucidate whether antihypertensive treatment per se, or specific classes of antihypertensive drugs, are able to revert this impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ungar
- Istituto di Gerontologia e Geriatria, Università degli Studi di Firenze e Azienda Ospedaliera Careggi, Firenze, Italy.
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Castellani S, Ungar A, Cantini C, La Cava G, Di Serio C, Vallotti B, Altobelli A, Masotti G. Impaired renal adaptation to stress in the elderly with isolated systolic hypertension. Hypertension 1999; 34:1106-11. [PMID: 10567190 DOI: 10.1161/01.hyp.34.5.1106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the renal response in the elderly with isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) when an adrenergic activation, as induced by mental stress, is applied. Renal hemodynamics and kidney neurohumoral response to mental stress were studied in 8 elderly patients with ISH (aged 63 to 82 years) along with 8 elderly normotensive subjects. The study encompassed four 30-minute experimental periods (baseline, mental stress, and recovery I and II). In these patients, the mental stress-induced blood pressure rise was associated with a significant increase in both effective renal plasma flow ((131)I-labeled hippurate clearance) and glomerular filtration rate ((125)I-labeled iothalamate clearance) (+42% and +29%, respectively; P<0.01 for both), without variations in filtration fraction, while elderly normotensives reacted to adrenergic stimulation with renal vasoconstriction but with the glomerular filtration rate constant. Variations in renal vasoactive substances, which paralleled hemodynamics of the kidney, differed in the 2 groups. In normotensives, excretion (radioimmunoassay) of endothelin-1, prostaglandin E(2), and cGMP increased during the stimulus (+50%, +54%, and +59%, respectively; P<0.05). In ISH patients the release of these autacoids did not vary in any of the experimental periods. In conclusion, in patients with ISH the renal adaptive capacity to sympathetic activation is impaired, and the data may suggest that the glomerulus passively suffers the blood pressure increase, probably because of the insufficiency of the neurohumoral response, particularly in regard to the increase of endothelin-1. This hemodynamic pattern may predispose ISH patients to a higher risk of renal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Castellani
- Istituto di Clinica Medica Generale e Cardiologia, Firenze, Italy.
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Castellani S, Ungar A, Cantini C, La Cava G, Di Serio C, Altobelli A, Vallotti B, Pellegri M, Brocchi A, Camaiti A, Coppo M, Meldolesi U, Messeri G, Masotti G. Excessive vasoconstriction after stress by the aging kidney: inadequate prostaglandin modulation of increased endothelin activity. J Lab Clin Med 1998; 132:186-94. [PMID: 9735924 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-2143(98)90167-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The adaptive capacity of the aging kidney to stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, as induced by a 30-minute mental stress (MS), was assessed in 8 elderly healthy women (68 to 82 years of age) and compared with that of 8 younger women (24 to 40 years of age). The study encompassed 4 consecutive 30-minute periods (baseline, mental stress, recovery 1, and recovery 2). In the elderly subjects, baseline effective renal plasma flow (ERPF)(iodine 131-labeled hippurate clearance) was lower and glomerular filtration rate (GFR)(iodine 125-labeled iothalamate clearance) was proportionally less reduced than in the younger group; the filtration fraction (FF) was higher. The elderly group excreted more endothelin 1 (ET-1) (P < .05), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and 6-keto-prostaglandin F1alpha (6-keto PGF1alpha)(P < .001 for both)(radioimmunoassay). Mental stress induced similar increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and plasma catecholamines in the 2 age groups, limited to the stimulation period. In the elderly group, mental stress caused a prolonged decrease in ERPF that reached its maximum 60 minutes after mental stress (-33%, P < .05), while GFR remained constant during the whole experiment, so that FF increased. In the younger subjects, renal hemodynamic changes were limited to the mental stress period. ET-1 increased during mental stress and the first recovery period in the elderly group (+50% and +25%, P < .05) as it did in the younger group, but the elderly group differed from the younger in that vasodilating prostaglandins increased only during mental stress. In conclusion, the aging kidney reacts to adrenergic stimulation with more-pronounced and -prolonged vasoconstriction that is probably caused by a defect in prostaglandin modulation of endothelin activity. Autoregulation of GFR is maintained at the expense of increased intraglomerular pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Castellani
- Istituto di Clinica Medica Generale e Cardiologia, Dipartimento di Fisiopatologia Clinica, Università di Firenze, Italy
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Everard JD, Cantini C, Grumet R, Plummer J, Loescher WH. Molecular cloning of mannose-6-phosphate reductase and its developmental expression in celery. Plant Physiol 1997; 113:1427-1435. [PMID: 9112783 PMCID: PMC158267 DOI: 10.1104/pp.113.4.1427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Compared with other primary photosynthetic products (e.g. sucrose and starch), little is known about sugar alcohol metabolism, its regulation, and the manner in which it is integrated with other pathways. Mannose-6-phosphate reductase (M6PR) is a key enzyme that is involved in mannitol biosynthesis in celery (Apium graveolens L.). The M6PR gene was cloned from a leaf cDNA library, and clonal authenticity was established by assays of M6PR activity, western blots, and comparisons of the deduced amino acid sequence with a celery M6PR tryptic digestion product. Recombinant M6PR, purified from Escherichia coli, had specific activity, molecular mass, and kinetic characteristics indistinguishable from those of authentic celery M6PR. Sequence analyses showed M6PR to be a member of the aldo-keto reductase superfamily, which includes both animal and plant enzymes. The greatest sequence similarity was with aldose-6-phosphate reductase (EC 1.1.1.200), a key enzyme in sorbitol synthesis in Rosaceae. Developmental studies showed M6PR to be limited to green tissues and to be under tight transcriptional regulation during leaf initiation, expansion, and maturation. These data confirmed a close relationship between the development of photosynthetic capacity, mannitol synthesis, and M6PR activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Everard
- Department of Horticulture, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824-1325, USA
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Castellani S, Ungar A, La Cava G, Cantini C, Stefanile C, Camaiti A, Messeri G, Coppo M, Vallotti B, Di Serio C, Brocchi A, Masotti G. Renal adaptation to stress: a possible role of endothelin release and prostaglandin modulation in the human subject. J Lab Clin Med 1997; 129:462-9. [PMID: 9104890 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-2143(97)90080-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to define the neurohumoral response associated with the renal hemodynamic perturbations induced by mental stress acting as an adrenergic stimulus. In 8 healthy women, the effects of mental stress were studied during four consecutive 30-minute periods (baseline, mental stress, recovery I, recovery II). Mental stress induced sympathetic activation as evidenced by increases in blood pressure, heart rate, and plasma norepinephrine level. Effective renal plasma flow (iodine 131-labeled hippurate clearance) decreased only during mental stress (-22%, p < 0.05 vs baseline); glomerular filtration rate (iodine 125-labeled iotalamate clearance) remained constant during the entire experiment; the filtration fraction increased significantly during mental stress and recovery I (+30% and +22%, respectively, p < 0.02 for both). Complex neuroendocrine responses were associated with the hemodynamic changes. Urinary excretion of endothelin-1 and 6-keto-PGF(1alpha) increased during mental stress (+53%, p < 0.01, and +20%, p < 0.01, respectively) and recovery I (+49% and +29%, respectively, p < 0.01 for both). Urinary cyclic guanosine monophosphate rose only during mental stress (+77%, p < 0.05), whereas excretion of PGE2 showed a stepwise increase throughout recovery I and II (+292%, p < 0.01, and +360%, p < 0.001, respectively). In conclusion, the present experiments demonstrate that renal hemodynamic response induced by mental stress is a complex reaction in which endothelin-1, prostaglandins, and presumably nitric oxide take part.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Castellani
- Istituto di Clinica Medica Generale e Cardiologia, Dipartimento di Fisiopatologia Clinica, Università di Firenze, Italy
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Castellani S, Paladini B, Paniccia R, Di Serio C, Vallotti B, Ungar A, Fumagalli S, Cantini C, Poggesi L, Neri Serneri GG. Increased renal formation of thromboxane A2 and prostaglandin F2 alpha in heart failure. Am Heart J 1997; 133:94-100. [PMID: 9006296 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-8703(97)70253-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Renal formation of the vasoconstrictor prostaglandins thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) was investigated in 25 patients with cardiac failure, divided into New York Heart Association functional classes I to IV, and in eight healthy control subjects. Plasma renin activity (PRA) and hemodynamic parameters were also investigated. Renal vasoconstrictor eicosanoid formation, measured in urinary daily excretion, was not different between patients in class I and control subjects. Class II to IV patients showed progressively increasing production of PGF2 alpha (F = 49.8, p < 0.001, analysis of variance) and TXA2 (F = 37.8, p < 0.002). PGF2 alpha excretion peaked in class IV (+ 1266% vs class I, p < 0.001). Compared with class I, urinary excretion of thromboxane B2 was + 816% in class III and + 1561% in class IV (both p < 0.001). PRA was significantly increased only in class IV (+ 1558%, p < 0.001). The current results indicate a progressive increase in renal production of vasoconstrictor eicosanoids directly related to New York Heart Association class and suggest that these prostanoids may have a role in deterioration of renal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Castellani
- Clinica Medica Generale e Cardiologia, University of Florence, Italy
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Macchi C, Giannelli F, Cecchi F, Corcos L, Repice F, Cantini C, Brizzi E. Collateral circulation in occlusion of lower limbs arteries: an anatomical study and statistical research in 35 old subjects. Ital J Anat Embryol 1996; 101:89-96. [PMID: 8997904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The collateral circles formed following lower limbs arterial occlusion and their hemodynamic function have been described; 35 subjects (23 men and 12 women; age range 65 to 80), with symptomatic lower limbs obstructive arteriopathy (Fontaine's stage II) following occlusion of vessels downstream the subrenal aorta have been studied by means of Contrast Angiography and Color Doppler Echography of the vascular district including the terminal aorta and the lower limbs arteries. The hemodynamic significance of the collateral circles was assessed by calculating the Windsor index. In this population, the collateral circles for each level of obstruction were explored. Occlusion of the terminal abdominal aorta: the collateral circle was mainly established through the inferior mesenteric and ischiatic arteries and through the lumbar, ilio-lumbar and gluteal arteries; occlusion of the iliac tract: the collateral circulation was established through the spermatic or ovaric artery and through the funicular, external pudendal and middle sacral arteries; occlusion of the ilio-femoral tract: the collateral circulation was formed by the internal and external pudendal arteries and by the ilio-lumbar, obturating, gluteal and circumflex iliac arteries; occlusion of first tract of the superficial femoral artery: collateral circulation was established through the deep femoral artery and through the perforating arteries; occlusion of the terminal tract of the superficial femoral artery: collateral circulation was formed by the articular branches of the same artery originating proximal to the occlusion and through branches of the deep femoral artery; occlusion of the superficial and deep femoral arteries at their origin: collateral circulation was established through the ischiatic artery (directly and, indirectly, through the perforating arteries), and through the tegumental arteries. The hemodynamic significance, as measured by Windsor index was higher the more proximal was the occlusion, in accord with the lower caliber and/or number of vessels involved in the collateral circles.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Macchi
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Unversity of Study of Florence, Italy
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Lazzeri M, Barbanti G, Beneforti P, Maggi CA, Taddei I, Andrea U, Cantini C, Castellani S, Turini D. Vesical-renal reflex: diuresis and natriuresis activated by intravesical capsaicin. Scand J Urol Nephrol 1995; 29:39-43. [PMID: 7618049 DOI: 10.3109/00365599509180537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
In the last years the role of capsaicin sensitive innervation, in the activation of the micturition reflex, has been reported in many papers. In our experience, upon the intravesical administration of capsaicin in humans, we noticed an increase of diuresis. No interaction is known about the sensory innervation of the bladder and renal function, so we studied the possibility of the existence of a vesical-renal reflex arc. Twenty-one patients (9 men and 12 women) were randomised to receive intravesical infusion of saline solution containing 10 microM capsaicin. Urine output, glomerular renal filtrate (GRF) and effective plasma renal flow (EPRF), measured by Technetium-99m diethylenetetramine-penta-acetic acid (DTPA) renal scintigraphy, were recorded over twenty minutes before and after the intravesical administration of capsaicin. Urine density, [Na+] and [K+] concentration, and prostaglandin E2 excretion were also determined before and after intravesical administration of capsaicin or vehicle. Installation of saline solution containing 10 microM capsaicin produced a significant increase of mean urine output, an increase of GRF, of EPRF and of [Na+] and [K+] urine concentration. An increase, not statistically significant, was observed of PgE2 excretion. None of the patients treated with vehicle showed any modification of parameters examined. The present findings demonstrate a hitherto unrecognized effect: increased diuresis following selective chemical stimulation of bladder efferents with capsaicin. The renal diuretic response to intravesical capsaicin represents a working hypothesis about the possible involvement of a vesical-renal reflex arc organized at spinal or supraspinal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Lazzeri
- Department of Urology, University of Ferrara, Italy
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Bartolozzi G, Bernini G, Veneziano AM, Panconi P, Poggiali S, Bongini G, Cantini C. [Care of oncologic child and his family: viewpoint of the pediatrician]. Pediatr Med Chir 1986; 8:829-36. [PMID: 3601712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The authors report their considerations on the care of the oncologic childhood and their families. Various psychologic aspects are discussed, first of all the child and his cancer, how the parents and siblings face the disease, death and after. Finally they outline the role of pediatrician and the hospital staff.
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Cantini C. [Aggressiveness of nursing personnel]. Krankenpfl Soins Infirm 1985; 78:43-4. [PMID: 3844557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Cantini C. [Aggression in nurses]. Krankenpfl Soins Infirm 1984; 77:74-5. [PMID: 6325815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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