1
|
Souto LFL, Borges RM, da Costa RG, Dos Santos RIL, da Silva AJR. Dereplication of calystegines in food plants and wild Solanum Brazilian fruits. Food Chem 2024; 446:138808. [PMID: 38408398 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.138808] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Calystegines are potent glycosidase inhibitors with therapeutic potential and are constituents of food and feed with potential toxic effects. This study aims to target calystegines and other nitrogenous substances in food plants. Hydroalcoholic extracts from Solanum tuberosum, Ipomoea batatas, S. lycocarpum, and fruit from S. lycopersicum, S. aethiopicum, S. paniculatum, S. crinitum, and S. acanthodes were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) using an acidic HILIC column. The dereplication approach included data processing using MZMine2, FBMN-GNPS, and structure elucidation and interpretation of the organized data. The calystegines A3, A5, B2, and C1 were identified, and several potential new calystegine analogues: three may correspond to new calystegines of the A-group, one glycosyl derivative of calystegine A3, and two glycosyl derivatives of the B-group. These findings help to direct the search for new calystegines. In addition, the dereplication approach enabled the annotation of 22 other nitrogen compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luís Fernando L Souto
- Instituto de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de Rondônia, Campus Porto Velho Calama, Porto Velho, RO, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo Moreira Borges
- Instituto de Pesquisas de Produtos Naturais Walter Mors, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | | | | | - Antônio Jorge Ribeiro da Silva
- Instituto de Pesquisas de Produtos Naturais Walter Mors, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Aktaş H, Kurek MA. Deep eutectic solvents for the extraction of polyphenols from food plants. Food Chem 2024; 444:138629. [PMID: 38341914 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.138629] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) offer a promising, sustainable alternative for extracting polyphenols from food plants, known for their health benefits. Traditional extraction methods are often costly and involve toxic solvents. This review discusses the basic concepts, preparation techniques, and factors influencing the effective and safe use of DESs in polyphenol extraction. DESs' adaptability allows integration with other green extraction technologies, such as microwave- and ultrasound-assisted extractions, enhancing their efficiency. This adaptability demonstrates the potential of DESs in the sustainable extraction of bioactive compounds. Current research indicates that DESs could play a significant role in the sustainable procurement of these compounds, marking an important advancement in food science research and development. The review underscores DESs as a realistic, eco-friendly alternative in the realm of natural extraction technologies, offering a significant contribution to sustainable practices in food science.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Havva Aktaş
- Department of Technique and Food Development, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW), Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin A Kurek
- Department of Technique and Food Development, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW), Warsaw, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li YM, Shen CY, Jiang JG. Sedative and hypnotic effects of the saponins from a traditional edible plant Liriope spicata Lour. in PCPA-induced insomnia mice. J Ethnopharmacol 2024; 327:118049. [PMID: 38484954 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118049] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Liriope spicata Lour., a species listed in the catalogue of 'Medicinal and Edible Homologous Species', is traditionally used for the treatment of fatigue, restlessness, insomnia and constipation. AIM OF THE STUDY This study is aimed to evaluate the sedative and hypnotic effect of the saponins from a natural plant L. spicata Lour. in vivo. MATERIALS AND METHODS The total saponin (LSTS) and purified saponin (LSPS) were extracted from L. spicata, followed by a thorough analysis of their major components using the HPLC-MS. Subsequently, the therapeutic efficacy of LSTS and LSPS was evaluated by the improvement of anxiety and depression behaviors of the PCPA-induced mice. RESULTS LSTS and LSPS exhibited similar saponin compositions but differ in their composition ratios, with liriopesides-type saponins accounting for a larger proportion in LSTS. Studies demonstrated that both LSTS and LSPS can extend sleep duration and immobility time, while reducing sleep latency in PCPA-induced mice. However, there was no significant difference in weight change among the various mice groups. Elisa results indicated that the LSTS and LSPS could decrease levels of NE, DA, IL-6, and elevate the levels of 5-HT, NO, PGD2 and TNF-α in mice plasma. LSTS enhanced the expression of neurotransmitter receptors, while LSPS exhibited a more pronounced effect in regulating the expression of inflammatory factors. In conclusion, the saponins derived from L. spicata might hold promise as ingredients for developing health foods with sedative and hypnotic effects, potentially related to the modulation of serotonergic and GABAAergic neuron expression, as well as immunomodulatory process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Meng Li
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Chun-Yan Shen
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China; Southern Medical University, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jian-Guo Jiang
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Naozuka J, Oliveira AP, Nomura CS. Evaluation of the effect of nanoparticles on the cultivation of edible plants by ICP-MS: a review. Anal Bioanal Chem 2024; 416:2605-2623. [PMID: 38099967 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-05076-w] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Nanoparticle (NP) applications aiming to boost plant biomass production and enhance the nutritional quality of crops hae proven to be a valuable ally in enhancing agricultural output. They contribute to greater food accessibility for a growing and vulnerable population. These nanoscale particles are commonly used in agriculture as fertilizers, pesticides, plant growth promoters, seed treatments, opportune plant disease detection, monitoring soil and water quality, identification and detection of toxic agrochemicals, and soil and water remediation. In addition to the countless NP applications in food and agriculture, it is possible to highlight many others, such as medicine and electronics. However, it is crucial to emphasize the imperative need for thorough NP characterization beyond these applications. Therefore, analytical methods are proposed to determine NPs' physicochemical properties, such as composition, crystal structure, size, shape, surface charge, morphology, and specific surface area, detaching the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) that allows the reliable elemental composition quantification mainly in metallic NPs. As a result, this review highlights studies involving NPs in agriculture and their consequential effects on plants, with a specific focus on analyses conducted through ICP-MS. Given the numerous applications of NPs in this field, it is essential to address their presence and increase in the environment and humans since biomagnification and biotransformation effects are studies that should be further developed. In light of this, the demand for rapid, innovative, and sensitive analytical methods for the characterization of NPs remains paramount.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Naozuka
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema, 09972-270, Brazil.
| | - Aline P Oliveira
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, 05513-970, Brazil
| | - Cassiana S Nomura
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, 05513-970, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wickramasinghe ASD, Attanayake AP, Kalansuriya P. Gelatine nanoparticles encapsulating three edible plant extracts as potential nanonutraceutical agents against type 2 diabetes mellitus. J Microencapsul 2024; 41:94-111. [PMID: 38410890 DOI: 10.1080/02652048.2024.2313230] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
AIM To optimise, and characterise gelatine nanoparticles (GNPs) encapsulating plant extracts and evaluate the glucose-lowering potential. METHODS GNPs encapsulating plant extracts were prepared by desolvation method followed by adsorption. The GNPs were characterised by loading efficiency, loading capacity, particle size, zeta potential, SEM and FTIR. The glucose-lowering activity of GNPs was determined using oral glucose tolerance test in high-fat diet fed streptozotocin-induced Wistar rats. RESULTS Loading efficiency and capacity, particle mean diameter, and zeta potential of optimised GNPs 72.45 ± 13.03% w/w, 53.05 ± 26.16% w/w, 517 ± 48 nm and (-)23.43 ± 9.96 mV respectively. GNPs encapsulating aqueous extracts of C. grandis, S. auriculata, and ethanol 70% v/v extracts of M. koenigii showed glucose-lowering activity by 17.62%, 11.96% and 13.73% (p < 0.05) compared to the non-encapsulated extracts. FTIR analysis confirmed the encapsulation of phytoconstituents into GNPs. SEM imaging showed spherical GNPs (174 ± 46 nm). CONCLUSION GNPs encapsulating plant extracts show promising potential to be developed as nanonutraceuticals against diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pabasara Kalansuriya
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna, Galle, Sri Lanka
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Anbessa B, Lulekal E, Getachew P, Hymete A. Ethnobotanical study of wild edible plants in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, Benishangul Gumuz Regional State, western Ethiopia. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2024; 20:27. [PMID: 38413982 PMCID: PMC10900549 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00671-2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plants deliver livelihood and food for millions of people in the world. Indeed, wild edible plants support rural communities in developing countries to overcome seasonal unfavorable conditions. In rural areas of Ethiopia, wild edible plants play an indispensable role in fighting food insecurity as emergency or supplementary foods. Hence, this research was aimed at studying the ethnobotanical assessment of wild edible plants in Dibatie district, Metekel zone, western Ethiopia. METHODS Ethnobotanical data was collected using a semi-structured interview, field observation, focus group discussions, a market survey, and the ranking of selected plants. Besides, voucher specimens were collected and stored at the National Herbarium of Ethiopia. Descriptive statistics, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and familiarity index were computed for data analysis. RESULTS This study has documented 54 wild edible plant species belonging to 33 plant families and 46 genera. Of these, most (38.90%) had tree growth habits. Wild edible plants bear mostly fruits (72.20%) as edible parts. Local people usually consume these plants freshly raw as complementary foods, though some wild edibles require processing. They were mostly harvested in the January (31.48%) and May (27.78%) months, with the least collected in September (7.41%). Most wild edible plants (78.57%) were available in uncontrolled habitats, while others (21.43%) live in farmlands, home gardens, and as live fences. Out of the recorded plants, about 98% had additional uses besides their nutritional values. CONCLUSION Wild edible plants assist the livelihoods of the local people in food security, agriculture, energy sources, construction, medicines, ecological services, aesthetics, income generation, and household utensils. Nevertheless, wild edible plants are recently threatened due to various anthropogenic factors in the study area. Thus, they need wise use and in-situ and ex-situ conservation measures from all the concerned bodies for sustainable use in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baressa Anbessa
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University, PO Box 3434, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Bule Hora University, Bule Hora, Ethiopia.
| | - Ermias Lulekal
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University, PO Box 3434, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Paulos Getachew
- Center for Food Science and Nutrition, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ariaya Hymete
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mgalula ME. An ethnobotanical study of wild edible fruits in miombo woodlands of Tabora region in Western Tanzania. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2024; 20:23. [PMID: 38403583 PMCID: PMC10895781 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00668-x] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wild edible fruits found in Tanzania's miombo woods are an indispensable source of food and medicine. Unfortunately, with the rapid expansion of human activities and urbanisation in the Tabora rural, Uyui and Sikonge districts of Western Tanzania, some wild fruits are disappearing due to the loss of plant diversity. The objectives of this study wereL: to document the knowledge related to wild edible fruits; to quantify the use and cultural significance, and to determine their threats. METHODS The ethnobotanical study was conducted from June 2022 to February 2023 involving 244 local informants. The study used field visits, the collection of plant parts, and semi-structured interviews with locals for its data collection. Descriptive statistics and correlation test were used to analyse the knowledge related to wild fruits. Frequency citation (f) and use reports (UR) were computed to understand the diversity and cultural significance (CI). RESULTS The study documented 27 wild edible fruit species used for food and medicine. The life form constituted deciduous shrubs or trees (64%), shrub trees (21%) and evergreen or deciduous trees (15%). About (56%) of wild edible fruits were collected from June to August after the rainy season, (33%) were harvested between December and May during the rainy season, and (11%) were gathered from September and November before the rainy season. Household size and sex of the respondents were significantly correlated to the knowledge of wild edible fruits. Higher utilisation frequency (f) was recorded for Vitex mombassae Vatke (f = 0.84), Strychnos spinosa Lam. (f = 0.82), Vitex payos (Lour.) Merr. (f = 0.56), Phyllogeiton discolor (Klotzsch) Herzog. (f = 0.45), Vangueria infausta Burchell (f = 0.45), Tamarindus indica L. (f = 0.38), Parinari curatellifolia (f = 0.25), Landolphia parvifolia K.Schum. (f = 0.22) and Microcos conocarpa Burret (f = 0.22) fruits species. Additionally, Phyllogeiton discolor (Klotzsch) Herzog. (UR = 56), Vitex mombassae Vatke (UR = 56), Tamarindus indica L. (UR = 37), Strychnos spinosa Lam. (UR = 14) and Friesodielsia obovata (Benth.) Verdc. (UR = 11), have higher use reports (UR) and considered culturally important. Wild fruits were used to cure diabetes, gastrointestinal, reproductive, and respiratory infections ailments. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Multiple uses as well as the related knowledge of wild fruits have been documented. Friesodielsia obovata, Grewia flavescens Juss and Thespesia garckeana F.Hoffm. are the medicinal fruit species reported for the first time. Harvesting of wood plants, charcoal activities, crop cultivation, grazing expansion, and environmental change, have had an impact on the diversity of wild edible fruit plants. Over the past three decades, the use of wild fruits has been impacted by the loss of plant diversity due to decline of cultural norms on the forests management. Given the variety of uses for wild fruits, promoting markets for native fruits, sensitising the locals about the cultural importance and innovation on processing techniques are necessary to spur conservation efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Elias Mgalula
- Mkwawa University College of Education, University of Dar es Salaam, Post Office Box 2513, Iringa, Tanzania.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Oliveira W, Colares LF, Porto RG, Viana BF, Tabarelli M, Lopes AV. Food plants in Brazil: origin, economic value of pollination and pollinator shortage risk. Sci Total Environ 2024; 912:169147. [PMID: 38065486 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169147] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Pollination is a key ecosystem service of critical importance for food production. However, globally, several regions are already experiencing pollinator shortage as pollinators are declining. Here, we investigate the origin, pollinator dependence and economic value of 199 food crops cultivated in Brazil to understand to which extent (1) Brazilian agriculture is vulnerable to pollinator shortage, and (2) Brazilian society has already achieved a comprehensive perspective about crop dependence. We used Brazil as a case study as it is a megadiverse tropical country and the 3rd largest world crop producer and exporter, with most of the crops depending on pollinators. Our findings revealed that over half (53.7%) of the food crops in Brazil are native, with the North region of Brazil housing the higher diversity of native crops, in contrast with the South and Southeast regions. Additionally, considering the reproductive systems, among native food crops, 65.6% exhibit self-incompatibility or dioecy (i.e., requiring obligatory cross-pollination), whereas 30.6% of exotic food crops display this trait. Overall, Brazilian municipalities produce more exotic crops than native ones, with almost 4/5 of the total agricultural area of the country dedicated to the cultivation of exotic crops, which are generally self-compatible commodities that rely low to modestly on pollinators. Regarding the biomes, we observe that this pattern is followed by most of them, but for the Caatinga dry forest, where native crops dependent on pollinators predominate. However, when soybean is removed from the analysis, the areas devoted to exotic crops always decreased, even being equal to native crops in the Atlantic forest. Our results also indicate that considering the pollinator shortage, some Brazilian biomes may be at risk of losing >20% of their yields, mainly in the Caatinga dry forest and the Atlantic forest. Therefore, in this paper, we are discussing that the expansion of monocultures in Brazil's agricultural lands may have several impacts on the provision of pollination services, food production and, then, on food security not only for the Brazilian population, as Brazil is the 3rd largest world agricultural producer and exporter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Willams Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Vegetal, Departamento de Botânica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Lucas F Colares
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade Animal, Laboratório de Ecologia Teórica e Aplicada, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Rafaella G Porto
- Departamento de Botânica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Blandina F Viana
- Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Tabarelli
- Departamento de Botânica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Ariadna V Lopes
- Departamento de Botânica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sahai H, Bueno MJM, Del Mar Gómez-Ramos M, Fernández-Alba AR, Hernando MD. Quantification of nanoplastic uptake and distribution in the root, stem and leaves of the edible herb Lepidum sativum. Sci Total Environ 2024; 912:168903. [PMID: 38013093 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168903] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
This study confirms the uptake, translocation and bioaccumulation of 100 nm polystyrene nanoplastics in the root, stem and leaves of the plant Lepidum sativum at exposure concentrations ranging from environmentally realistic 10 μg/L up to a high of 100 mg/L. Accumulation in plant tissues was characterised by aggregation in the intercellular spaces and heterogeneous distribution. Nanoplastic presence was confirmed in the root tips, root surface and stele, lateral roots, root hairs, stem vascular bundles, leaf veins and mesophyll, as well as leaf epidermis including stomatal sites. Quantification results show that majority of the particles were retained in the root and accumulation in stem and leaves was only 13 to 18 % of the median value in roots. There was a reduction of 38.89 ± 9.62 % in the germination rate, 55 % in plant fresh weight, as well as in root weight (> 80 %), root length (> 60 %), shoot weight (51 to 78 %) and number of lateral roots (> 28 %) at exposure concentrations at and above 50 mg/L. However, lower, environmentally probable exposure concentrations did not affect the plant health significantly. Our results highlight the urgent need for further exploration of this issue from the point of view of food safety and security. STATEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATION: Micro and nanoplastics have been reported in agricultural environments across the globe and reports regarding their hazardous effects over agricultural and plant health call for an urgent exploration of this issue. This work demonstrates the uptake, bioaccumulation and distribution of nanoplastics in an edible plant at an environmentally realistic concentration and raises serious concerns regarding the possible implications for food safety and security. It presents a novel approach which addresses the quantification of nanoplastic accumulation in plant tissues and helps identify the mechanism and trends behind this phenomenon which has been a challenge up until now.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harshit Sahai
- Experimental Station of Arid Zones, The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC-EEZA), Ctra. de Sacramento s/n, La Cañada de San Urbano 04120, Almería, Spain; Jozef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - María Jesús Martínez Bueno
- Agrifood Campus of International Excellence (ceiA3), European Union Reference Laboratory for Pesticide Residues in Fruit & Vegetables, Department of Chemistry and Physics, University of Almería, La Cañada de San Urbano 04120, Almería, Spain
| | - María Del Mar Gómez-Ramos
- Agrifood Campus of International Excellence (ceiA3), European Union Reference Laboratory for Pesticide Residues in Fruit & Vegetables, Department of Chemistry and Physics, University of Almería, La Cañada de San Urbano 04120, Almería, Spain
| | - Amadeo R Fernández-Alba
- Agrifood Campus of International Excellence (ceiA3), European Union Reference Laboratory for Pesticide Residues in Fruit & Vegetables, Department of Chemistry and Physics, University of Almería, La Cañada de San Urbano 04120, Almería, Spain
| | - María Dolores Hernando
- Experimental Station of Arid Zones, The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC-EEZA), Ctra. de Sacramento s/n, La Cañada de San Urbano 04120, Almería, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
La Scala S, Naselli F, Quatrini P, Gallo G, Caradonna F. Drought-Adapted Mediterranean Diet Plants: A Source of Bioactive Molecules Able to Give Nutrigenomic Effects per sè or to Obtain Functional Foods. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2235. [PMID: 38396910 PMCID: PMC10888686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042235] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The Mediterranean diet features plant-based foods renowned for their health benefits derived from bioactive compounds. This review aims to provide an overview of the bioactive molecules present in some representative Mediterranean diet plants, examining their human nutrigenomic effects and health benefits as well as the environmental advantages and sustainability derived from their cultivation. Additionally, it explores the facilitation of producing fortified foods aided by soil and plant microbiota properties. Well-studied examples, such as extra virgin olive oil and citrus fruits, have demonstrated significant health advantages, including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Other less renowned plants are presented in the scientific literature with their beneficial traits on human health highlighted. Prickly pear's indicaxanthin exhibits antioxidant properties and potential anticancer traits, while capers kaempferol and quercetin support cardiovascular health and prevent cancer. Oregano and thyme, containing terpenoids like carvacrol and γ-terpinene, exhibit antimicrobial effects. Besides their nutrigenomic effects, these plants thrive in arid environments, offering benefits associated with their cultivation. Their microbiota, particularly Plant Growth Promoting (PGP) microorganisms, enhance plant growth and stress tolerance, offering biotechnological opportunities for sustainable agriculture. In conclusion, leveraging plant microbiota could revolutionize agricultural practices and increase sustainability as climate change threatens biodiversity. These edible plant species may have crucial importance, not only as healthy products but also for increasing the sustainability of agricultural systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia La Scala
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Sezione di Biologia Cellulare, Università di Palermo, 90128, Palermo, Italy; (S.L.S.); (P.Q.); (G.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Flores Naselli
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Sezione di Biologia Cellulare, Università di Palermo, 90128, Palermo, Italy; (S.L.S.); (P.Q.); (G.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Paola Quatrini
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Sezione di Biologia Cellulare, Università di Palermo, 90128, Palermo, Italy; (S.L.S.); (P.Q.); (G.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Giuseppe Gallo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Sezione di Biologia Cellulare, Università di Palermo, 90128, Palermo, Italy; (S.L.S.); (P.Q.); (G.G.); (F.C.)
- NBFC—National Biodiversity Future Center, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Fabio Caradonna
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Sezione di Biologia Cellulare, Università di Palermo, 90128, Palermo, Italy; (S.L.S.); (P.Q.); (G.G.); (F.C.)
- NBFC—National Biodiversity Future Center, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li L, Xie J, Zhang Z, Xia B, Li Y, Lin Y, Li M, Wu P, Lin L. Recent advances in medicinal and edible homologous plant polysaccharides: Preparation, structure and prevention and treatment of diabetes. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 258:128873. [PMID: 38141704 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128873] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Medicinal and edible homologs (MEHs) can be used in medicine and food. The National Health Commission announced that a total of 103 kinds of medicinal and edible homologous plants (MEHPs) would be available by were available in 2023. Diabetes mellitus (DM) has become the third most common chronic metabolic disease that seriously threatens human health worldwide. Polysaccharides, the main component isolated from MEHPs, have significant antidiabetic effects with few side effects. Based on a literature search, this paper summarizes the preparation methods, structural characterization, and antidiabetic functions and mechanisms of MEHPs polysaccharides (MEHPPs). Specifically, MEHPPs mainly regulate PI3K/Akt, AMPK, cAMP/PKA, Nrf2/Keap1, NF-κB, MAPK and other signaling pathways to promote insulin secretion and release, improve glycolipid metabolism, inhibit the inflammatory response, decrease oxidative stress and regulate intestinal flora. Among them, 16 kinds of MEHPPs were found to have obvious anti-diabetic effects. This article reviews the prevention and treatment of diabetes and its complications by MEHPPs and provides a basis for the development of safe and effective MEHPP-derived health products and new drugs to prevent and treat diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Li
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China; Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Jingchen Xie
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China; Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Zhimin Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China; Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Bohou Xia
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China; Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Yamei Li
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China; Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Yan Lin
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China; Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Minjie Li
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China; Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China
| | - Ping Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China; Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China.
| | - Limei Lin
- College of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China; Key Laboratory for Quality Evaluation of Bulk Herbs of Hunan Province, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, No. 300 Xueshi Road, Yuelu District, Changsha 410208, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cheng Z, Lin S, Wu Z, Lin C, Zhang Q, Xu C, Li J, Long C. Study on medicinal food plants in the Gaoligongshan Biosphere Reserve, the richest biocultural diversity center in China. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2024; 20:10. [PMID: 38225656 PMCID: PMC10790445 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00638-9] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional knowledge associated with medicinal food plants (MFPs) plays a vital role in fighting hidden hunger and safeguarding the health of local people. MFPs resources are abundant in the Gaoligongshan area, a biosphere reserve with the richest biocultural diversity in China. Local people of different linguistic groups also have rich traditional botanical knowledge. However, there are still few comprehensive and systematic studies on MFPs there. METHODS Ethnobotanical investigation including market survey, semi-structured interviews, free listing and key informant interviews was conducted in the Gaoligongshan area, Western Yunnan, Southwest China. A total of 13 local farmers' markets were selected and information about medicinal food plants, including food categories, medicinal and edible parts, modes of consumption, medicinal effects, and distribution were collected. The relative occurrence frequency (RFO) and cultural food significance index (CFSI) were calculated to identify the culturally significant MFPs. RESULTS A total of 184 species of MFPs, belonging to 83 families, were collected in the Gaoligongshan area, including vegetables (77), medicinal diets (26), fruits (25), spices (18), herbal tea (13), tea substitutes (11), substitutes for staple food (8), nuts (5), oils and fats (4), and dye material (1). The most frequently used families were Fabaceae, Asteraceae and Apiaceae, with 11, 10, and 9 species, respectively. The most frequently used plant parts were the stems, followed by fruits and leaves. Based on the evaluation results of the CFSI and RFO indices, 18 species of MFPs with magnificent local cultural importance have been screened out, such as Houttuynia cordata, Eryngium foetidum, Sechium edule, Centella asiatica and Pseudocydonia sinensis. CONCLUSION These findings have guiding significance for conservation of traditional knowledge associated with MFPs and facilitation of scientific utilization of MFPs to meet local people's needs for a healthy life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Shuyan Lin
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Ziyi Wu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Chen Lin
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Congli Xu
- Yunnan Gaoligongshan National Nature Reserve (Baoshan Bureau), Yunnan, 678000, China
| | - Jiahua Li
- Yunnan Gaoligongshan National Nature Reserve (Longyang Branch of Baoshan Bureau), Yunnan, 678000, China
| | - Chunlin Long
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
- Institute of National Security Studies, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Vardeman ET, Kennelly EJ, Vandebroek I. Haitian women in New York City use global food plants for women's health. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2024; 20:8. [PMID: 38217006 PMCID: PMC10785501 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00648-1] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the availability of mainstream biomedical healthcare in New York City (NYC), community-based ethnomedicine practices remain a low-cost, culturally relevant treatment for many immigrants. Previous urban ethnobotany research in NYC has established that several Caribbean communities continue using medicinal plants for women's health after immigration. This study sought to address to what extent: (1) NYC Haitian women continue using medicinal plants for women's health after migration; (2) their plants and the conditions treated were similar to those identified in an earlier survey with NYC immigrants from the Dominican Republic. METHODS Through an ethnobotanical survey, 100 Haitian women living in NYC and born in Haiti were interviewed about their knowledge of medicinal plants for women's health conditions. Reported species were purchased based on local names in NYC Haitian stores and markets, vouchered, and identified. RESULTS Nearly all Haitian women (97%) reported using medicinal plants while living in Haiti. Most Haitian women continued using medicinal plants after coming to the USA (83%). The 14% decrease, although significant (z = 3.3; p = 0.001), was mainly due to logistical difficulties with sourcing plants after recent immigration. Popular medicinal plant species reported were primarily global food plants, re-emphasizing the intertwined food-medicine relationship in Caribbean diasporas. Comparison with data from NYC Dominicans identified childbirth and puerperium, gynecological infections, and vaginal cleansing as priority Haitian women's health concerns treated with plants. CONCLUSION Our findings support the global nature of Caribbean migrant plant pharmacopeia, predominantly centered around food plants and adapted to transnational urban settings. They underscore cultural diversity, dispelling the notion of one uniform traditional knowledge system labeled "Caribbean." The importance of preventative medicine for women's health, particularly the regular consumption of "healthy" foods or teas highlights the role food plants play in maintaining health without seeking treatment for a particular condition. Cross-cultural comparisons with other NYC Caribbean immigrants emphasize the importance of conducting ethnobotanical surveys to ground-truth plant use in the community. Such surveys can also identify culture-specific health priorities treated with these plants. Healthcare providers can leverage these insights to formulate culturally relevant and community-tailored healthcare strategies aligned with Haitian women's health beliefs and needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ella T Vardeman
- The Institute of Economic Botany, The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY, 10458, USA
- PhD Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd W, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
| | - Edward J Kennelly
- PhD Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, 250 Bedford Park Blvd W, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
| | - Ina Vandebroek
- The Institute of Economic Botany, The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY, 10458, USA.
- PhD Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
- Department of Life Sciences and Caribbean Centre for Research in Bioscience (CCRIB), Faculty of Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Jia M, Wang J, Cao D, Jiang C, Li W, Tembrock LR, Xing G, Li S, Wu Z. The pan-plastome of Hemerocallis citrina reveals new insights into the genetic diversity and cultivation history of an economically important food plant. BMC Plant Biol 2024; 24:44. [PMID: 38200455 PMCID: PMC10782787 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-023-04668-z] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hemerocallis citrina Baroni (Huang hua cai in Chinese) is a perennial herbaceous plant grown for its flower buds that are eaten fresh or dried and is known as the vegetarian three treasures. The nuclear genome of H. citrina has been reported, but the intraspecific variation of the plastome (plastid genome) has not yet been studied. Therefore, the panplastome of this species collected from diverse locations is reported here for the first time. RESULTS In this study, 65 H. citrina samples were resequenced, de novo assembled, and aligned with the published plastome of H. citrina to resolve the H. citrina panplastome. The sizes of the 65 newly assembled complete plastomes of H. citrina ranged from 156,048 bp to 156,263 bp, and the total GC content ranged from 37.31 to 37.34%. The structure of the complete plastomes showed a typical tetrameric structure, including a large single copy (LSC), a small single copy (SSC), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRA and IRB). Many nucleotide variants were identified between plastomes, among which the variants in the intergenic spacer region were the most abundant, with the highest number of variants concentrated in the LSC region. Based on the phylogenetic tree constructed using the ML method, population structure analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA), the panplastome data were subdivided into five genetic clusters. The C5 genetic cluster was mostly represented by samples from Qidong, Hunan Province, while samples from Shanxi and Shaanxi Provinces were classified into the C4 genetic cluster. The greatest genetic diversity was found in the C1 genetic cluster, and the greatest genetic distance between any two clusters was found between the C4 and C5 clusters. CONCLUSION The resolution of the panplastome and the analysis of the population structure of H. citrina plastomes provide important data for future breeding projects and germplasm preservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minlong Jia
- College of Horticulture, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, 030031, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518120, China
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, 6000-6999, Australia
- Kunpeng Institute of Modern Agriculture at Foshan, Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518124, China
| | - Dongmei Cao
- College of Horticulture, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, 030031, China.
| | - Congrong Jiang
- College of Horticulture, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, 030031, China
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518120, China
| | - Wei Li
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518120, China
| | - Luke R Tembrock
- Department of Agricultural Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80525, USA
| | - Guoming Xing
- College of Horticulture, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, 030031, China
| | - Sen Li
- College of Horticulture, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, 030031, China.
| | - Zhiqiang Wu
- College of Horticulture, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan, 030031, China.
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518120, China.
- Kunpeng Institute of Modern Agriculture at Foshan, Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518124, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nishiyama E, Nagata R, Ando A, Saito A. Edible plant oil (EPO)-consumption activity of the isolate Fusarium keratoplasticum EN01 and other relative Fusarium species. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2024; 117:7. [PMID: 38170394 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-023-01901-5] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Edible oil is used in humans' daily lives, and the degradation of edible oil is a key process in sewage water treatment and in compost production from food wastes. In this study, a mixed microbial strain EN00, which showed high edible plant oil (EPO)-consumption activity, was obtained from soil via enrichment cultivation. A fungal strain EN01 was isolated from EN00 and relegated to Fusarium keratoplasticum, based on the nucleotide sequences of the TEF1-α gene. Strain EN01 eliminated more than 90% of hydrophobic compounds from the medium containing 1.0% (w/v) EPO within 10 days at 30 °C. The rate of consumption of EPO by EN01 was comparable with that of EN00, suggesting that EN01 was the main microorganism involved in the EPO-consumption ability of EN00. Strain EN01 efficiently utilized EPO as a sole carbon source. The EPO-consumption rate of EN01 was highest among six tested strains of Fusarium solani species complex (FSSC), while two FSSC strains of F. mori and F. cuneirostrum, whose phylogenetic relationships were relatively distant from EN01, had little EPO-eliminating activity. This data implies that the potent EPO-eliminating activity is not general in FSSC strains but is restricted to selected members of this complex. EN01 showed good growth at 25-30 °C, in media with an initial pH of 4-10, and in the presence of 0-3% (w/v) sodium chloride. Although the safety including pathogenicity must be strictly evaluated, some FSSC strains including EN01 have potentials for use in the degradation and elimination of edible oil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eiko Nishiyama
- Graduate School of Advanced Integration Science, Chiba University, Matsudo 648, Matsudo City, Chiba, 271-8510, Japan
| | - Ryo Nagata
- Graduate School of Advanced Integration Science, Chiba University, Matsudo 648, Matsudo City, Chiba, 271-8510, Japan
| | - Akikazu Ando
- Graduate School of Advanced Integration Science, Chiba University, Matsudo 648, Matsudo City, Chiba, 271-8510, Japan
| | - Akihiro Saito
- Graduate School of Advanced Integration Science, Chiba University, Matsudo 648, Matsudo City, Chiba, 271-8510, Japan.
- Department of Materials and Life Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Shizuoka Institute of Science and Technology, Toyosawa 2200-2, Fukuroi, Shizuoka, 437-8555, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sá KM, Soares IL, de Souza Leão MV, Ferreira MIC, do Nascimento PGG, Pontes CM, da Hora AM, Leal LP, de Oliveira MN, Bandeira MAM, Pontes DF. Technology Prospection of Ora-pro-Nóbis ( Pereskia aculeata Mill.): A Non-conventional Food Plant. Recent Pat Biotechnol 2024; 18:144-151. [PMID: 37138429 DOI: 10.2174/1872208317666230502101802] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ora-pro-nóbis (Pereskia aculeata Mill.) is a plant from Brazilian biodiversity used for food and medicinal purposes. It has ample technological potential, however, it is still underutilized, being classified as a Non-Conventional Food Plant (PANC). Prospective studies in intellectual property banks make it possible to expand perspectives for scientific research, enhancing the generation of new products. OBJECTIVE Evaluate the patents of products containing Pereskia aculeata Mill. for the areas of food and health in intellectual property databases. METHODS The study was conducted through structured prospective investigation (collection, processing and analysis) in 4 patent databases: National Institute of Intellectual Property (INPI) - Brazil, United States Patent and Trademark Office, World Trade Organization Intellectual Property (WIPO) and Espacenet. RESULTS The evaluation showed a reduced number of registered patents. In general, 8 patent applications were examined, of which 7 are directly associated with the species (and its derivatives) and 1 is related to a device specially designed for harvesting leaves/fruits and removing thorns. The focus of the patents was the use of the species in the food, pharmaceutical and biotechnological areas, with emphasis on the use of the leaves in the extraction of mucilage and proteins. CONCLUSION This study showed that Pereskia aculeata Mill. is a technologically promising plant, because of its nutritional and medicinal composition, and it is important to encourage innovation and the development of new products with the species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kellen Miranda Sá
- Departamento de Engenharia de Alimentos, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
- Horto de Plantas Medicinais Prof. F. J. A. Matos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| | - Igor Lima Soares
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| | - Marcos Venânces de Souza Leão
- Departamento de Engenharia de Alimentos, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| | - Maria Izabel Carneiro Ferreira
- Departamento de Engenharia de Alimentos, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| | | | - Claudilane Martins Pontes
- Departamento de Engenharia de Alimentos, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| | - Alane Maia da Hora
- Horto de Plantas Medicinais Prof. F. J. A. Matos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| | - Lucas Pontes Leal
- Horto de Plantas Medicinais Prof. F. J. A. Matos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| | - Maria Nilka de Oliveira
- Departamento de Engenharia de Alimentos, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| | - Mary Anne Medeiros Bandeira
- Horto de Plantas Medicinais Prof. F. J. A. Matos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
- Departamento de Farmácia, Faculdade de Farmácia, Odontologia e Enfermagem, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| | - Dorasilvia Ferreira Pontes
- Departamento de Engenharia de Alimentos, Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza/CE, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Jana S, Gayen S, Gupta BD, Singha S, Mondal J, Kar A, Nepal A, Ghosh S, Rajabalaya R, David SR, Balaraman AK, Bala A, Mukherjee PK, Haldar PK. Investigation on Anti-diabetic Efficacy of a Cucurbitaceae Food Plant from the North-East Region of India: Exploring the Molecular Mechanism through Modulation of Oxidative Stress and Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c). Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets 2024; 24:220-234. [PMID: 37691221 DOI: 10.2174/1871530323666230907115818] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The medicinal plants of the Cucurbitaceae family, such as Solena heterophylla Lour. fruits, have significant ethnobotanical value and are readily accessible in North East India. AIMS We conducted a study on Solena heterophylla Lour. fruits to evaluate their anti-diabetic activity in vivo, standardize their HPTLC, and profile their metabolites using LC-QTOF-MS. We aimed to explore the molecular mechanism behind their effects on oxidative stress and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). METHODS Firstly, the ethyl acetate fraction of Solena heterophylla Lour. fruits was standardized using Cucurbitacin B as a standard marker by conducting HPTLC evaluation. Next, we delved into analyzing metabolite profiling. In addition, the standardized fraction was utilized in an experimental study to investigate the molecular mechanism of action in an in vivo high-fat diet and a low dose of streptozotocin-induced diabetic model. RESULTS We have reportedly identified 52 metabolites in the ethyl acetate fraction of Solena heterophylla (EASH). In the in vitro tests, it has been observed that this extract from plants possesses notable inhibitory properties against α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Solena heterophylla fruits with high levels of Cucurbitacin B (2.29% w/w) helped lower FBG levels in animals with EASH treatment. EASH treatment reduced HbA1c levels and normalized liver lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme levels. SGOT, SGPT, and SALP serum enzyme levels also returned to normal. CONCLUSION Based on the current evaluation, it was found that EASH exhibited encouraging hypoglycemic effects in diabetic rats induced by a low dose of STZ and high-fat diet, which warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandipan Jana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Srijon Gayen
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Barun Das Gupta
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata-700032, India
| | - Seha Singha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Jayashree Mondal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Amit Kar
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, Imphal, 795001, India
| | - Abhimanyu Nepal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Suparna Ghosh
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
| | - Rajan Rajabalaya
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, BE 1410 Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Sheba R David
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, 82071, USA
| | - Ashok Kumar Balaraman
- Faculty of Pharmacy, MAHSA University, Bandar Saujana Putra, 42610, Jenjarom, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Asis Bala
- Pharmacology and Drug Discovery Research Laboratory, Division of Life Sciences, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), An Autonomous Institute under - Department of Science & Technology (Govt. of India) Vigyan Path, Guwahati, PIN- 781035, Assam, India
| | | | - Pallab Kanti Haldar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
- School of Natural Product Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700032, India
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Howell MM, Gee CT, Böttger C, Südekum KH. Digestibility of dinosaur food plants revisited and expanded: Previous data, new taxa, microbe donors, foliage maturity, and seasonality. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291058. [PMID: 38100456 PMCID: PMC10723699 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291058] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the living relatives of the Mesozoic flora were once assumed to constitute a nutritionally poor diet for dinosaur herbivores, in vitro fermentation of their foliage has shown that gymnosperms, ferns, and fern relatives can be as highly digestible as angiosperm grasses and dicots. Because nutritional information cannot be preserved in the fossil record, this laboratory approach, first published in 2008, provides a novel alternative to evaluate the digestive quality of the plants that were available to dinosaur megaherbivores such as sauropods. However, very few further studies have since been conducted to supplement and confirm the high fermentative capacity of nonangiospermous taxa. Here we show that the living relatives of the Araucariaceae and Equistaceae are consistently highly digestible, even between taxa and when influenced by environmental and biological factors, while fern taxa are inconsistent on the family level. These results reinforce previous findings about the high energetic potential of Jurassic-age plant families. Fourteen species of fern and gymnosperm foliage from five Jurassic families were collected in the spring and fall, then analyzed for their digestibility using the in vitro Hohenheim gas test. Equisetum, Araucaria, and Angiopteris were the most digestible genera in both seasons, while Agathis, Wollemia, and Marattia were the least digestible. The season in which specimens were collected was found to have to a significant effect on gas production in four out of 16 samples (P < 0.05). Furthermore, leaf maturity influences digestibility in Marattia attenuata (P < 0.05), yet not in Cyathea cooperi (P = 0.24). Finally, the species of the rumen fluid donor did not influence digestibility (P = 0.74). With the original data set supplemented by one new genus and four species, this study confirms and expands previous results about the nutritional capacity of the living relatives of the Jurassic flora.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariah M. Howell
- Division of Paleontology, Institute of Geosciences, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Carole T. Gee
- Division of Paleontology, Institute of Geosciences, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wicaksono WA, Cernava T, Wassermann B, Abdelfattah A, Soto-Giron MJ, Toledo GV, Virtanen SM, Knip M, Hyöty H, Berg G. The edible plant microbiome: evidence for the occurrence of fruit and vegetable bacteria in the human gut. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2258565. [PMID: 37741805 PMCID: PMC10519362 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2258565] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Diversity of the gut microbiota is crucial for human health. However, whether fruit and vegetable associated bacteria contribute to overall gut bacterial diversity is still unknown. We reconstructed metagenome-assembled genomes from 156 fruit and vegetable metagenomes to investigate the prevalence of associated bacteria in 2,426 publicly available gut metagenomes. The microbiomes of fresh fruits and vegetables and the human gut are represented by members in common such as Enterobacterales, Burkholderiales, and Lactobacillales. Exposure to bacteria via fruit and vegetable consumption potentially has a beneficial impact on the functional diversity of gut microbiota particularly due to the presence of putative health-promoting genes for the production of vitamin and short-chain fatty acids. In the human gut, they were consistently present, although at a low abundance, approx. 2.2%. Host age, vegetable consumption frequency, and the diversity of plants consumed were drivers favoring a higher proportion. Overall, these results provide one of the primary links between the human microbiome and the environmental microbiome. This study revealed evidence that fruit and vegetable-derived microbes could be found in the human gut and contribute to gut microbiome diversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wisnu Adi Wicaksono
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - Tomislav Cernava
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Birgit Wassermann
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - Ahmed Abdelfattah
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
- Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB), Potsdam, Germany
| | | | | | - Suvi M. Virtanen
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
- Center for Child Health Research, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Research, Development and Innovation Center, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Mikael Knip
- Research Program for Clinical and Molecular Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Pediatric Research Center, Children’s Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heikki Hyöty
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, and Fimlab Laboratories, Tampere, Finland
| | - Gabriele Berg
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
- Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB), Potsdam, Germany
- Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Su ZW, Yan TY, Feng J, Zhang MY, Han L, Zhang HF, Xiao Y. Protective Effects and Mechanism of Polysaccharides from Edible Medicinal Plants in Alcoholic Liver Injury: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16530. [PMID: 38003718 PMCID: PMC10671977 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216530] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use accounts for a large variety of diseases, among which alcoholic liver injury (ALI) poses a serious threat to human health. In order to overcome the limitations of chemotherapeutic agents, some natural constituents, especially polysaccharides from edible medicinal plants (PEMPs), have been applied for the prevention and treatment of ALI. In this review, the protective effects of PEMPs on acute, subacute, subchronic, and chronic ALI are summarized. The pathogenesis of alcoholic liver injury is analyzed. The structure-activity relationship (SAR) and safety of PEMPs are discussed. In addition, the mechanism underlying the hepatoprotective activity of polysaccharides from edible medicinal plants is explored. PEMPs with hepatoprotective activities mainly belong to the families Orchidaceae, Solanaceae, and Liliaceae. The possible mechanisms of PEMPs include activating enzymes related to alcohol metabolism, attenuating damage from oxidative stress, regulating cytokines, inhibiting the apoptosis of hepatocytes, improving mitochondrial function, and regulating the gut microbiota. Strategies for further research into the practical application of PEMPs for ALI are proposed. Future studies on the mechanism of action of PEMPs will need to focus more on the utilization of multi-omics approaches, such as proteomics, epigenomics, and lipidomics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo-Wen Su
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Food Engineering and Nutritional Science, International Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Food and Health Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China; (Z.-W.S.)
- Academician and Expert Workstations in Puer City of Yunnan Province, Puer 665600, China
| | - Ting-Yu Yan
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Food Engineering and Nutritional Science, International Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Food and Health Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China; (Z.-W.S.)
| | - Jing Feng
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Food Engineering and Nutritional Science, International Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Food and Health Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China; (Z.-W.S.)
| | - Meng-Yuan Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Food Engineering and Nutritional Science, International Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Food and Health Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China; (Z.-W.S.)
| | - Lei Han
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Food Engineering and Nutritional Science, International Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Food and Health Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China; (Z.-W.S.)
| | - Hua-Feng Zhang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest China, College of Food Engineering and Nutritional Science, International Joint Research Center of Shaanxi Province for Food and Health Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China; (Z.-W.S.)
- Academician and Expert Workstations in Puer City of Yunnan Province, Puer 665600, China
| | - Ying Xiao
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Yang X, Zhou Q, Wang Q, Wu J, Zhu H, Zhang A, Sun J. Congener-specific uptake and accumulation of bisphenols in edible plants: Binding to prediction of bioaccumulation by attention mechanism multi-layer perceptron machine learning model. Environ Pollut 2023; 337:122552. [PMID: 37714399 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122552] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
Plant accumulation of phenolic contaminants from agricultural soils can cause human health risks via the food chain. However, experimental and predictive information for plant uptake and accumulation of bisphenol congeners is lacking. In this study, the uptake, translocation, and accumulation of five bisphenols (BPs) in carrot and lettuce plants were investigated through hydroponic culture (duration of 168 h) and soil culture (duration of 42 days) systems. The results suggested a higher bioconcentration factor (BCF) of bisphenol AF (BPAF) in plants than that of the other four BPs. A positive correlation was found between the log BCF and the log Kow of BPs (R2carrot = 0.987, R2lettuce = 0.801, P < 0.05), while the log (translocation factor) exhibited a negative correlation with the log Kow (R2carrot = 0.957, R2lettuce = 0.960, P < 0.05). The results of molecular docking revealed that the lower binding energy of BPAF with glycosyltransferase, glutathione S-transferase, and cytochrome P450 (-4.34, -4.05, and -3.52 kcal/mol) would be responsible for its higher accumulation in plants. Based on the experimental data, an attention mechanism multi-layer perceptron (AM-MLP) model was developed to predict the BCF of eight untested BPs by machine learning, suggesting the relatively high BCF of bisphenol BP, bisphenol PH, and bisphenol TMC (BCFcarrot = 1.37, 1.50, 1.03; BCFlettuce = 1.02, 0.98, 0.67). The prediction of BCF for ever-increasing varieties of BPs by machine learning would reduce repetitive experimental tests and save resources, providing scientific guidance for the production and application of BPs from the perspective of priority pollutants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xindong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Control Technology for Industrial Pollution in Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Qinghua Zhou
- International Joint Research Center for Persistent Toxic Substances (IJRC-PTS), College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Qianwen Wang
- Research and Teaching Center of Agriculture, Zhejiang Open University, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Juan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Control Technology for Industrial Pollution in Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Haofeng Zhu
- International Joint Research Center for Persistent Toxic Substances (IJRC-PTS), College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Anping Zhang
- International Joint Research Center for Persistent Toxic Substances (IJRC-PTS), College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Jianqiang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Microbial Control Technology for Industrial Pollution in Zhejiang Province, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Liu S, Huang X, Bin Z, Yu B, Lu Z, Hu R, Long C. Wild edible plants and their cultural significance among the Zhuang ethnic group in Fangchenggang, Guangxi, China. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2023; 19:52. [PMID: 37940945 PMCID: PMC10631048 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00623-2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fangchenggang is situated in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, renowned for its rich biodiversity and ethnically diverse population. The Zhuang people, constituting the largest minority group in the area, possess a wealth of traditional knowledge concerning wild edible plants (WEPs) owing to the region's favorable environment and dietary customs. With the rapid development of urbanization, tourism, and trade, the Zhuang people's food culture, including the consumption of wild edible plants, has become an attractive aspect of urban development. However, there is almost no comprehensive report available on WEPs consumed by the Zhuang people. The objectives of this study were to: (1) conduct a comprehensive ethnobotanical investigation of the WEPs among the Zhuang people in the region; (2) evaluate the cultural food significance index (CFSI) for the local communities; (3) summarize the cultural characteristics of the wild edible plants consumed, providing scientific support for the development of Fangchenggang as a sustainable and attractive tourism destination. METHODS Ethnobotanical investigation including market surveys, semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews and participatory observations was conducted in Fangchenggang from January 2021 to March 2023. A total of 137 informants were selected using the snowball method. Information about WEPs, including vernacular names, food categories, parts used, mode of consumption, collecting season, and recipes, was collected and recorded. The CFSI (cultural food significance index) was calculated to identify the most culturally significant WEPs. RESULTS A total of 163 species of wild edible plants consumed by the Zhuang people were identified, belonging to 67 families. The main categories of WEPs include wild vegetables (69) and tea substitutes (42). The most commonly consumed parts are fruits (37), followed by whole plants (33) and leaves (21), with herbaceous plants (74) being the most numerous. The availability of wild edible plants remains high throughout the year, with the peak seasons occurring in August and October, and significant abundance also noted in July and November. In the highly significant category (CFSI > 500), a total of 15 plant species were identified, which play a crucial role in the local diet. Additionally, 17 alien species have become part of the local consumption of wild plants, with 7 species listed as invasive alien species. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: This study documented 163 wild edible plant species and their associated traditional knowledge of the Zhuang people. The research identified culturally significant WEPs and analyzed their multiple uses. The historical development of wild plant consumption in Fangchenggang showed the strong influence of natural and social environments on the Zhuang ethnic group's dietary traditions. The WEPs are characterized by "sour food", "fresh ingredients" and "cold dishes", aligning with their health-oriented philosophy of "homology of medicine and food". Future prospects encompass the cultivation of economically sustainable wild edible plants (WEPs), the preservation of their traits through cross-breeding, ensuring safe consumption through research and safety evaluations, and advocating for the preservation of WEPs' culinary culture to support tourism and sustainable urban development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sizhao Liu
- School of Ethnology and Sociology, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
- Guangxi Subtropical Crops Research Institute, Nanning, 530010, China
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine (Minzu University of China), Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xinyi Huang
- Guangxi Subtropical Crops Research Institute, Nanning, 530010, China
| | - Zhenjun Bin
- Guangxi Subtropical Crops Research Institute, Nanning, 530010, China
| | - Bingning Yu
- Guangxi Subtropical Crops Research Institute, Nanning, 530010, China
| | - Zushuang Lu
- Guangxi Subtropical Crops Research Institute, Nanning, 530010, China
| | - Renchuan Hu
- Guangxi Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmaceutical Science, Nanning, 530022, China.
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Quality Standards (Guangxi Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmaceutical Science), Nanning, 530022, China.
| | - Chunlin Long
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China.
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine (Minzu University of China), Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100081, China.
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
- Institute of National Security Studies, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wang J, Ding X, Guo CA, Zhang X, Feng H, Yang H, Wang Y. An ethnobotanical study of wild edible plants used by the Tibetan in the Rongjia River Valley, Tibet, China. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2023; 19:49. [PMID: 37891585 PMCID: PMC10612173 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00621-4] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wild edible plants (WEPs) play a crucial role in communities with limited communication with the outside world, where unstable factors, such as poor food supply and insufficient access to timely nutritional supplementation, are common, as in the Himalayan region. To document the traditional knowledge of WEPs and explore their significance for communities with minimal global economic exchange, an ethnobotanical study was conducted in the town of Rongjia, which lies in a narrow valley near Mount Everest, Tibet, China. METHODS This ethnobotanical study was conducted in three villages in the Rongjia River Valley between August 2021 and June 2023. Semi-structured interviews and participatory observations were used to collect information on WEPs. The fieldwork was performed with the assistance of local guides. Voucher specimens were collected from each documented plant species for taxonomic identification. We used the use report (UR) and relative frequency of citations (RFC) to evaluate the comprehensive utilization value of WEPs. RESULTS We interviewed 161 informants who provided us with 2499 use reports. We collected 50 WEPs belonging to 28 families and 42 genera used by the Tibetan people in the Rongjia River Valley. WEPs are used in vegetables, fruits, seasonings, healthcare foods, substitute grains, and beverages. Wild vegetables were the most commonly used, followed by wild fruits. Leaves were the most commonly consumed part of the plant. The three most important WEPs ordered by RFC values were Rosa sericea var. glandulosa Osmaston (RFC = 0.76), Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. (RFC = 0.75), and Urtica hyperborea Jacquem. ex Wedd. (RFC = 0.71). Other than that, we also document some of WEPs used in the past. Arisaema erubescens Schott, Pinellia ternata (Thunb.) Makino, and Satyrium nepalense var. ciliatum (Lindl.) Hook. f. used to serve as important substitute grains, are no longer in use, however, they remain vivid in the memories of older people. CONCLUSIONS WEPs included wild vegetables, fruits, seasonings, healthcare food, and substitute grains for Tibetan people in the Rongjia River Valley. Some WEPs have become important cultural symbols for older people, which can help in understanding the relationship between plants and local people in the past. In addition, WEPs can increase the resilience of local people living in remote areas when facing sudden destabilizing events in future. This is the significance of WEPs for communities with minimal global economic exchange. Therefore, we suggest that future studies focus more on WEPs in communities with limited communication with the world to improve their resilience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132 Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Yunnan, 650201, Kunming, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyong Ding
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132 Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Yunnan, 650201, Kunming, China
- National Centre for Borderland Ethnic Studies in Southwest China, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Chang-An Guo
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132 Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Yunnan, 650201, Kunming, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiong Zhang
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132 Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Yunnan, 650201, Kunming, China
- College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710119, China
| | - Haowen Feng
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132 Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Yunnan, 650201, Kunming, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Huizhao Yang
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132 Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Yunnan, 650201, Kunming, China
| | - Yuhua Wang
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132 Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Yunnan, 650201, Kunming, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gomes LCA, Medeiros PMD, Prata APDN. Patterns of use of wild food plants by Brazilian local communities: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2023; 19:47. [PMID: 37880767 PMCID: PMC10601232 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00619-y] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to investigate the patterns of use of native wild food plants of Brazil (native and non-cultivated). METHODS We searched ethnobiological works with food plants in Web of Science, Scielo, Scopus and PubMed using different sets of keywords. Initially, the studies were evaluated based on inclusion criteria (systematic data collection instruments, such as interviews; specification of methods for data collection; and the presence of a species list). The methodological quality of each study was evaluated to define the risk of bias. A total of 20 articles met all criteria and were included in the review. RESULTS The results showed that there was a predominance of consumption of fruits, followed by leaves and seeds, which together represented 85.8% of the total parts. As for the meta-analysis, there was a predominance of use of plant parts classified as reproductive, non-persistent, non-destructive and parts of woody plants. There was no interference from the type of ecosystem (seasonally dry x moist). The results did not support the seasonality hypothesis. CONCLUSIONS The concentration of studies in the Northeast, Southeast and South regions of Brazil and in the Atlantic Forest and Caatinga biomes points to the need for a greater effort in terms of quantitative ethnobotanical research in other regions and biomes. The predominance of fruits and plant parts classified as reproductive, non-persistent and non-destructive points to the high potential for implementation of sustainable management strategies aimed at these plants in the country.
Collapse
|
25
|
Flantua SGA, Hooghiemstra H. Anthropogenic pollen indicators: Global food plants and Latin American human indicators in the pollen record. Sci Data 2023; 10:721. [PMID: 37857627 PMCID: PMC10587149 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02613-1] [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: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Pollen-based evidence of human presence is crucial for reconstructing human history. However, information on the morphology of pollen grains of global food plants and regional pollen-based human indicators is scattered in the literature, leading to the risk of overlooking important evidence of human presence. To address this issue, we first compiled a comprehensive overview of 354 major food plants worldwide, creating a paleoecology-friendly format that includes their family, vernacular name, earliest known use, environmental preference, and geographical region. Moreover, we identified the sources of illustrations of their pollen grains for 209 out of 273 different genera of globally relevant food plants in 10 selected pollen atlases. Secondly, we compiled all human indicators from pollen-based paleoecological literature in Latin America (based on 750 references), providing an overview of 212 single-pollen type indicators and identified 95 crucial combinations of pollen types as "human indices", and their corresponding references. Our review datasets aids in distilling human evidence from numerous fossil pollen records worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzette G A Flantua
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen and Bjerknes Centre for Climate Research, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Henry Hooghiemstra
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Science Park 904, 1098XH, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Yiblet Y, Adamu E. Nutritional Composition and Phytochemical Evaluation of Some Selected Wild Edible Plants in Tach Gaint District, Northwestern Ethiopia. ScientificWorldJournal 2023; 2023:6670648. [PMID: 37876588 PMCID: PMC10593547 DOI: 10.1155/2023/6670648] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the nutritional, mineral, and phytochemical analyses of some selected wild edible plants from Tach Gaint District, Northwest Ethiopia. Proximate composition parameters (moisture, ash, crude fibre, crude fat, crude protein, carbohydrate, and energy) were evaluated using the methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists, and elemental analysis was performed using the atomic absorption spectroscopy technique. Results from the nutritional analysis show that Erucastrum abyssinicum leaves had the highest crude protein content (17.47 ± 0.03 g/100 g), followed by Amaranthus graecizans (14.97 ± 0.03 g/100 g). The maximum moisture content (40.8 ± 0.00 g/100 g) and ash content (24.70 ± 0.15 g/100 g) were reported in the leaves of Amaranthus graecizans. The young shoots of Rumex abyssinicus had the highest crude fat content (14.07 ± 0.03 g/100 g) and the highest fibre content (34.70 ± 0.25 g/100 g), while the fruits of Opuntia ficus-indica had the highest amount of utilisable carbohydrate (44.4 ± 0.00 g/100 g) and the estimated energy value (326.4 ± 0.00 Kcal/100 g). Calcium was detected in considerable proportions (754.9 ± 0.23 mg/100 g) followed by iron (31.63 ± 0.03 mg/100 g) in Urtica simensis leaves and zinc content (3.09 ± 0.02 mg/100 g) in young shoots of Rumex abyssinicus. Qualitative phytochemical screening, alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, triterpenes, saponins, and tannins were found in the methanolic extract of the plants. The results of this study suggest that the consumption of such nutrient-rich wild edible plants could help add a remarkable amount of nutrient and mineral in the human diet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yalew Yiblet
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Mekdela Amba University, P.O. Box 32, Tulu Awlia, Ethiopia
| | - Endale Adamu
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Debre Tabor University, P.O. Box 272, Debre Tabor, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bajgai RC, Bajgai Y, Johnson SB. The presence of wild edible plants and determinants influencing their harvest, consumption, and conservation in south eastern Bhutan. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285936. [PMID: 37816046 PMCID: PMC10564141 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285936] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
DEFINITION Wild edible plants (WEPs) grow naturally in self-maintaining ecosystems. WEPs are harvested for consumption, sale, and medicinal uses. We hypothesize that WEPs play a major role in supplying food and generating income for the rural people in a world that is increasingly recognising its emerging conservation issues. We tested this hypothesis by identifying the reasons for harvest, consumption, and conservation of WEPs using focus group discussion, field observations and questionnaire surveys in south eastern Bhutan in late 2019. METHODS Focused group discussions were held with the local people to identify reasons for harvest and consumption of WEPs. Data on the identified reasons for harvest, consumption, and conserving WEPs were determined using a questionnaire survey with ranking scales for a set of 76 randomly selected households. Representative field-observations and questionnaire surveys were carried out in villages close to forests. Parts of the plant used, how these were consumed, harvest season, and plant (life form) were recorded. The data was subjected to a Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test and weighted averages calculated. RESULT AND CONCLUSION A total of 120 WEPs belonging to 63 families (including Agaricaceae) were reported. Most of the WEPs recorded were trees (45.0%) then herbs (25.8%), vines (13.3%) and shrubs (10.8%). The commonly consumed plant parts were the fruit (43.3%), shoots (28.3%) and leaves (20.8%). The purposes for harvesting and consumption, conservation of WEPs were significantly (P<0.001) different, while the motivations for collecting WEPs were not. The motivation for collecting WEPs were family consumption > sale > medicinal uses > preservation for future use > insufficient food from cultivated source's. The two most important strategies for conservation were to domesticate the WEPs and cultivate in forests. The findings reveal valuable lessons and insights about the reasons for harvesting, collection, consumption, and conservation of WEPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ram Chandra Bajgai
- Department of Environment & Life Sciences, Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan, Kanglung, Tashigang, Bhutan
| | - Yadunath Bajgai
- National Potato Program, National Centre for Organic Agriculture, Yusipang, Thimphu, Bhutan
- Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, Thimphu, Bhutan
| | - Stephen B. Johnson
- Department of Primary Industries, Weed Research Unit, Invasive Species Biosecurity, Adelaide, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zhang Q, Cheng Z, Fan Y, Zhang D, Wang M, Zhang J, Sommano S, Wu X, Long C. Ethnobotanical study on edible flowers in Xishuangbanna, China. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2023; 19:43. [PMID: 37777741 PMCID: PMC10542681 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00608-1] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Edible flowers (EFs) represent valuable sources of both food and medicinal resources, holding the promise to enhance human well-being. Unfortunately, their significance is often overlooked. Ethnobotanical studies on the EFs are lacking in comparison with their botanical and phytochemical research. The practice of consuming flowers as food has a rich culture and long history in China, especially among different linguistic groups in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan. However, economic activities have led to a decline of this tradition. Consequently, preserving the traditional knowledge and culture tied to the EFs in Xishuangbanna becomes both essential and pressing. METHODS The field ethnobotanical survey was conducted in Xishuangbanna during five visits in April 2021 and May 2023, covering 48 villages and 19 local markets of all three county-level areas and 9 different linguistic groups. By conducting a comprehensive literature review and on-site field surveys, relevant information regarding the EFs of Xishuangbanna was systematically collected and documented. Additionally, the relative frequency of citation (RFC) values were calculated from the survey data. RESULTS A total of 212 taxa (including species and varieties) of EFs from 58 families and 141 genera were documented in the study area. The edible parts of flowers were classified into 13 categories including peduncle, petal, flower buds, inflorescence as a whole, and etc. They were consumed in 21 ways and as 8 types of food. The inflorescence was the most commonly consumed category, accounting for 85 species (40.1%) of the total categories. They always eat flowers as vegetables (184 species, 86.8%). The preparing form of stir-frying was the preferred food preparation method (138, 65.1%). The Xishuangbanna locals had profound knowledge of which EFs required specific processing to remove their toxicity or bitterness. The dishes can be made from either exclusively from the flowers themselves or by incorporating them alongside other plant parts like stems and leaves. Some EFs with high RFC value, such as Musa acuminata and Bauhinia variegata var. candida, showed significant cultural meanings. These edible flowers occupy specific positions in local traditional culture. CONCLUSION Traditional knowledge regarding edible flowers holds substantial significance and serves as a representative element of the flower-eating culture in Xishuangbanna. Nevertheless, this knowledge and cultural practice are currently decreasing. Serving as a bridge between tradition and modernity, the flower-eating culture, which derives from local people's practical experience, shows the potential of EFs and can be applied to the conservation of biocultural diversity, healthy food systems, and sustainable development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Zhuo Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yanxiao Fan
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Dezheng Zhang
- School of Ethnology and Sociology, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091, China
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine (Minzu University of China), Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Jihai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine (Minzu University of China), Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Sarana Sommano
- Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Xianjin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Research and Utilization of Ethnomedicinal Plant Resources of Hunan Province, College of Biological and Food Engineering, Huaihua University, Huaihua, 418000, China.
| | - Chunlin Long
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China.
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine (Minzu University of China), Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100081, China.
- Institute of National Security Studies, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Hussain ST, Muhammad S, Khan S, Hussain W, Pieroni A. Ethnobotany for food security and ecological transition: wild food plant gathering and consumption among four cultural groups in Kurram District, NW Pakistan. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2023; 19:35. [PMID: 37658453 PMCID: PMC10472554 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00607-2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In traditional food systems, especially those of rural populations around the world, wild food plants remain crucial. These resources need to be urgently documented to lay the foundations for sustainable livelihoods and food security. METHODS In the present field study, we gathered information about wild food plants and mushrooms consumed by four ethnic groups (Turis, Khushis, Hazaras, and Christians) living in Kurram District, NW Pakistan, by conducting semi-structured interviews and holding group discussions. RESULTS A total of 57 wild edible plants and mushrooms were reported, with the documented taxa belonging to 50 genera and 34 families. Turis reported the highest number of wild food plants (41), followed by Hazaras (37), Khushis (35), and then Christians, who reported only 11 plants. The most dominant families were Rosaceae, followed by Polygonaceae, Brassicaceae, Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Moraceae, and Plantaginaceae. The comparative analysis we conducted with the pre-existing Pakistani ethnobotanical studies revealed that 23 wild edible plants have not been previously reported as food items in the area under study, which included Fragaria nubicola, Lepidium draba, Pinus wallichiana, Podophyllum emodi, Prunus jacquemontii, Sambucus nigra, Sideroxylon mascatense, and Thymus linearis. Four wild edible mushrooms are also reported for the area for the first time: Calvatia gigantea, Morchella esculenta, Pisolithus albus, and Tulostoma squamosum. The cross-cultural analysis of wild edible plants and their uses revealed remarkable similarity between Khushis and Hazaras. The overlapping pattern of wild edible plant use among these two groups, as well as Turis, confirms the existence of cross-cultural interactions among these communities, which have shared the same environmental and socio-cultural space for several decades. Food heritage and some unique dishes are linked to wild edible plants in the area, such as Zamda, prepared by Turis, and Saba, famous among Khushis and Hazaras. CONCLUSION This study suggests that some wild edible plants could be cultivated to protect a few threatened species from overexploitation, while the overall wild food plant heritage should be promoted and revitalized; for example, within educational platforms aimed at improving the wellbeing of local communities and the global ecological transition we must deal with.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sayed Taufiq Hussain
- Department of Botany, GPGC Parachinar, Parachinar, 26300 Kurram District, KP Pakistan
| | - Sayed Muhammad
- Department of Botany, GPGC Parachinar, Parachinar, 26300 Kurram District, KP Pakistan
| | - Sheharyar Khan
- Department of Botany, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, KP Pakistan
| | - Wahid Hussain
- Department of Botany, GPGC Parachinar, Parachinar, 26300 Kurram District, KP Pakistan
| | - Andrea Pieroni
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II 9, 12042 Pollenzo, Italy
- Department of Medical Analysis, Tishk International University, Erbil, 44001 Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hayashi S, Watanabe M, Kanao Koshikawa M, Takada M, Takechi S, Takagi M, Sakai M, Tamaoki M. Explaining the variation in 137Cs aggregated transfer factor for wild edible plants as a case study on Koshiabura (Eleutherococcus sciadophylloides) buds. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14162. [PMID: 37644128 PMCID: PMC10465601 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41351-7] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The aggregated transfer factor (Tag) is commonly used to represent the actual transfer of radiocesium from soil to wild edible plants, but the values have shown substantial variation since the Fukushima nuclear accident. To elucidate the factors causing this variation, we investigated the effects of spatial scale and vertical 137Cs distribution in the soil on the variation of Tag-137Cs values for one of the most severely contaminated wild edible plants, Eleutherococcus sciadophylloides Franch. et Sav. (Koshiabura). The variation in Tag-137Cs values was not reduced by direct measurement of 137Cs deposition in soil samples from the Koshiabura habitat, as a substitute for using spatially averaged airborne survey data at the administrative district scale. The 137Cs activity concentration in Koshiabura buds showed a significant positive correlation with the 137Cs inventories only in the organic horizon of soil from the Koshiabura habitat. The ratio of 137Cs inventories in the organic horizon to the total 137Cs deposition in soil exhibited substantial variation, especially in broad-leaved deciduous forests that Koshiabura primarily inhabits. This variation may be the cause of the wide range of Tag-137Cs values observed in Koshiabura buds when calculated from the total 137Cs deposition in soil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seiji Hayashi
- Fukushima Regional Collaborative Research Center, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 10-2 Fukasaku, Miharu, Fukushima, 963-7700, Japan.
| | - Mirai Watanabe
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Masami Kanao Koshikawa
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Momo Takada
- National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, 1‑1‑1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305‑8567, Japan
| | - Seiichi Takechi
- Fukushima Regional Collaborative Research Center, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 10-2 Fukasaku, Miharu, Fukushima, 963-7700, Japan
| | - Mai Takagi
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Masaru Sakai
- Fukushima Regional Collaborative Research Center, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 10-2 Fukasaku, Miharu, Fukushima, 963-7700, Japan
| | - Masanori Tamaoki
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Yseki M, Pezo-Lanfranco L, Machacuay M, Novoa P, Shady R. Analysis of starch grains trapped in human dental calculus in Áspero, Peru during the Initial Formative Period (3000-1800 BCE). Sci Rep 2023; 13:14143. [PMID: 37644158 PMCID: PMC10465486 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41015-6] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this research is to identify the plants consumed and to determine their dietary importance in Áspero, an urban center on the coast of the Supe Valley, Peru. Consequently, starch grains trapped in the human dental calculus of nine individuals were recovered, while the results from one individual from the Sacred City of Caral, located in the interior of Supe Valley, are presented. Eight species of food plants were identified, among them C3 plants: sweet potato, squash, potato, chili pepper, algarrobo, manioc and bean and C4 plant: maize. Previous isotopic analysis indicates that C3 plants formed the foundation of the diet at Áspero and Caral. Our results indicate a high ubiquity of C3 plants like sweet potato (100%) and squash (90%) suggesting, with caution, that these taxa were an important C3 source in the menu. Maize, C4 plant, showed a similar ubiquity (100%) to sweet potato and squash, however, previous isotopic analysis indicate that maize was a marginal food in Áspero and Caral. These results support that the absence and abundance of starch grains cannot be employed to directly infer the frequency of intake of C3 and C4 plants within a small population, as suggested by previous studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Yseki
- Zona Arqueológica Caral, Unidad Ejecutora 003, Ministerio de Cultura del Perú, Lima, Peru.
| | - Luis Pezo-Lanfranco
- Institute of Environmental Science and Technology (ICTA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marco Machacuay
- Zona Arqueológica Caral, Unidad Ejecutora 003, Ministerio de Cultura del Perú, Lima, Peru
| | - Pedro Novoa
- Zona Arqueológica Caral, Unidad Ejecutora 003, Ministerio de Cultura del Perú, Lima, Peru
- Escuela Profesional de Arqueología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Ruth Shady
- Zona Arqueológica Caral, Unidad Ejecutora 003, Ministerio de Cultura del Perú, Lima, Peru
- Escuela Profesional de Arqueología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Koss-Mikołajczyk I, Bartoszek A. Relationship between Chemical Structure and Biological Activity Evaluated In Vitro for Six Anthocyanidins Most Commonly Occurring in Edible Plants. Molecules 2023; 28:6156. [PMID: 37630408 PMCID: PMC10458735 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28166156] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have provided evidence that diets rich in anthocyanins show a broad spectrum of health benefits. Anthocyanins in nature are usually found in the form of glycosides. Their aglycone forms are called anthocyanidins. The chemical structure of anthocyanins is based on the flavylium cation, but they differ in the position and number of substituents. However, the bioactives and foods that contain them are frequently treated as a uniform group of compounds exhibiting the same biological activity, without paying attention to the structural differences between individual anthocyanidins. The aim of this study was to find out how structural differences impact the biological activity of the six most common dietary anthocyanidins, i.e., delphinidin (Dp), petunidin (Pt), cyanidin (Cd), malvidin (Mv), pelargonidin (Pg) and peonidin (Po). The study concentrated on redox-related phenomena and compared the following parameters: antioxidant activity (measured using various methods: spectrophotometric tests (ABTS, DPPH), ORAC assay and CAA test (cellular antioxidant activity)), the ability to inhibit growth of human colon cancer cells (HT29; determined using MTT assay), and the ability of studied compounds to protect DNA from oxidative damage (comet assay). Based on the obtained results, the relationship between the structure of studied anthocyanidins and their biological activity was assessed. The obtained results revealed that the number and position of the hydroxyl and methoxy groups in the anthocyanidin structure strongly influenced not only the color of anthocyanidins but most of all their antioxidant and biological activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Koss-Mikołajczyk
- Department of Chemistry, Technology and Biotechnology of Food, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Saad B. A Review of the Anti-Obesity Effects of Wild Edible Plants in the Mediterranean Diet and Their Active Compounds: From Traditional Uses to Action Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12641. [PMID: 37628822 PMCID: PMC10454857 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a long-term condition resulting from a continuous imbalance between the amount of energy consumed and expended. It is associated with premature mortality and contributes to a large portion of the global chronic disease burden, including diabesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and some cancers. While lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments are the primary ways to manage obesity, they may not always be sufficient for long-term weight loss. In these cases, medication may be necessary. However, the options for drugs are limited due to their potential side effects. As a result, there is a need to identify safe and effective alternative treatments. Recently, dietary compounds, plants, and bioactive phytochemicals have been considered as promising sources for discovering new pharmacological agents to treat obesity and its related complications. These natural products can function independently or synergistically with other plants to augment their effects at various levels of the body. They can modulate appetite, lipase activity, thermogenesis and fat synthesis and degradation, satiation, adipogenesis, and adipocyte apoptosis. Additionally, targeting adipocyte growth and differentiation with diverse medicinal plants/diet is a significant strategy for devising new anti-obesity drugs that can intervene in preadipocytes, maturing preadipocytes, and mature adipocytes. Clinical trials have shown that the wild edible plants in the Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of obesity and its related diseases. This review examines the effectiveness of the common components of the Mediterranean diet in managing obesity and its associated health issues. We conducted a comprehensive literature review using PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Medline Plus to gather data on the therapeutic effects of the Mediterranean diet and phytochemicals in treating obesity and its associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bashar Saad
- Qasemi Research Center, Al-Qasemi Academic College, P.O. Box 124, Baqa al-Gharbiyye 3010000, Israel;
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Arab American University, Jenin P.O. Box 240, Palestine;
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Guzo S, Lulekal E, Nemomissa S. Ethnobotanical study of underutilized wild edible plants and threats to their long-term existence in Midakegn District, West Shewa Zone, Central Ethiopia. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2023; 19:30. [PMID: 37452368 PMCID: PMC10347739 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00601-8] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ethiopia is endowed with much plant diversity. The insignificant number of studies on wild edible plants with their ethnobotanical perspectives indicated that this plant diversity comprised only hundreds of wild edible plants used to supplement food sources for the local community under different conditions. There still need to be further investigations throughout the country when compared to the total area and cultural diversity of the country. However, they are seriously under pressure due to different natural and human influences. Therefore, the study was conducted to document underutilized wild edible plants along with their associated indigenous knowledge and explore threats to them in Midakegn District. METHODS A questionnaire survey, semi-structured interviews, a market survey, score ranking, and focused group discussions were employed for data collection. Statistical analysis of ethnobotanical knowledge mean variation between different informant groups was computed by using one-way ANOVA in the IBM SPSS Statics version 24 package. RESULTS A total of fifty underutilized wild edible plants belonging to 39 genera and 30 families were collected, recorded, and documented. The families Moraceae (four), Fabaceae, Flacourtaceae, Myrtaceae, Rosaceae, and Tiliaceae (each three) represented the highest number of species. It comprised shrubs (44%), trees (36%), herbs (18%), and epiphytes (2%). Fruits (62.3%) were found to be the most frequently used and mostly taken raw, fresh, or dried. These edible resources were consumed to supplement staple foods (67.3%), whereas 25% were used as emergency foods. The majority of species (96%) had multiple uses in addition to their edibility. A significantly higher (P < 0.05) number of underutilized wild edible plants were cited by males than females, by key informants than generals, elders than youngsters, illiterate than literate, and poorer than other wealth class groups of the community. Priority rankings indicate that agricultural expansion, fuel wood harvest, overgrazing, and selective harvesting are the most threatening factors to underutilized wild edible plants. CONCLUSIONS Fifty underutilized wild edible plants, along with their associated indigenous knowledge, were recorded. Local people utilize them for supplementing staple food, as emergency food, to get relief, trust, and chew during drought. But they are mainly threatened by different human activities in the study area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheleme Guzo
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Science, Addis Ababa University, 1176 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Botanical Science, College of Natural Science, Jimma University, 378, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Ermias Lulekal
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Science, Addis Ababa University, 1176 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sileshi Nemomissa
- Department of Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, College of Natural and Computational Science, Addis Ababa University, 1176 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Featherstone A, Brown AC, Chitlapilly Dass S. Understanding how different surfaces and environmental biofilms found in food processing plants affect the spread of COVID-19. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286659. [PMID: 37285373 PMCID: PMC10246802 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286659] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Meat processing plants have been at the center of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with a recent report citing 90% of US facilities having multiple outbreaks during 2020 and 2021. We explored the potential for biofilms to act as a reservoir in protecting, harboring, and dispersing SARS-CoV-2 throughout the meat processing facility environment. To do this, we used Murine Hepatitis Virus (MHV), as a surrogate for SARS-CoV-2, and meat processing facility drain samples to develop mixed-species biofilms on materials found in meat processing facilities (stainless steel (SS), PVC, and ceramic tiles). After exposure to the biofilm organisms for five days post-inoculation at 7°C we conducted quantitative PCR (qPCR) and plaque assays to determine whether MHV could remain both detectable and viable. Our data provides evidence that coronaviruses can remain viable on all the surfaces tested and are also able to integrate within an environmental biofilm. Although a portion of MHV was able to remain infectious after incubation with the environmental biofilm, a large reduction in plaque numbers was identified when compared with the viral inoculum incubated without biofilm on all test surfaces, which ranged from 6.45-9.27-fold higher. Interestingly, we observed a 2-fold increase in the virus-environmental biofilm biovolume when compared to biofilm without virus, indicating that the biofilm bacteria both detected and reacted to the virus. These results indicate a complex virus-environmental biofilm interaction. Although we observed better survival of MHV on a variety of surfaces commonly found in meat processing plants alone than with the biofilm, there is the potential for biofilms to protect virions from disinfecting agents, which has implications for the potential of SARS-CoV-2 prevalence within the meat processing plant environment. Also given the highly infectious nature of SARS-CoV-2, particularly for some of the variant strains such as omicron, having even a residual level of virus present represents a serious health hazard. The increase in biofilm biovolume in response to virus is also a concern for food safety due to the potential of the same being seen with organisms associated with food poisoning and food spoilage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Austin Featherstone
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Amanda Claire Brown
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Sapna Chitlapilly Dass
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Gomes de Souza P, Rosane P Azeredo D, da Silva TTC, Carneiro CDS, Junger Teodoro A, Menezes Ayres EM. Food neophobia, risk perception and attitudes associations of Brazilian consumers towards non-conventional edible plants and research on sale promotional strategies. Food Res Int 2023; 167:112628. [PMID: 37087204 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.112628] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Non-conventional edible plants (NCEP) are plants or parts of plants that are not usually consumed by the population and have limited geographic distribution. This study investigated the consumption of NCEP, the influence of Food Neophobia and risk perception on Brazilian consumers attitudes as well as purchase preferences to determinate the best sale promotional strategy. Participants (n = 271) answered the online questionnaire that consisted of socio-demographic questions, items about consumption (open questions), Food Neophobia Scale, risk perception (to assign the level risk) and attitudes towards NCEP (using 5-point Likert scale). Fisher's exact test was used to investigate possible associations. Task purchase choice was evaluated using the Best-Worst Scale. The most consumed conventional leafy vegetables were collard greens (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala D.C) (95.6%) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa) (88.5%). As for NCEP, taioba (Xanthosoma taioba E.G) (26.7%), bertalha (Basela alba L.) (23.3%) and beldroega (Portulaca oleracea L.) (14.1%) were the most cited leafy vegetables. High food neophobia individuals demonstrated to try NCEP if its nutritional value and safety are proven, showing a demand for such strategy, this would increase the consumption of these vegetables. The perception of a high risk was also associated with the inclusion of NCEP in the diet. The inclusion of NCEP at the moment of purchase, even at a higher price, presented higher scores when compared to the purchase of only conventional vegetables, at lower prices. Despite this, the price can still be a limiting factor and the search for promotional strategies should be reinforced to increase the commercialization of NCEP at street markets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pâmela Gomes de Souza
- Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Rio de Janeiro, Graduate Program in Food Safety Management and Nutritional Quality, Rua Senador Furtado, 121/125 - Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Department of Basic Nutrition and Dietetics of the Josué de Castro Nutrition Institute, Federal University of do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas, Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Sensory and Consumer Science Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Food and Nutrition, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro Laboratório, Av. Pasteur, 296 - Urca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Denise Rosane P Azeredo
- Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Rio de Janeiro, Graduate Program in Food Safety Management and Nutritional Quality, Rua Senador Furtado, 121/125 - Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Thadia T C da Silva
- Department of Basic Nutrition and Dietetics of the Josué de Castro Nutrition Institute, Federal University of do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas, Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carla da Silva Carneiro
- Department of Natural Products and Food, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas, Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Anderson Junger Teodoro
- Laboratory of Food Analysis, Graduate Program in Food Nutrition, Fluminense Federal University, Rua Mário Santana Braga, 30 - Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ellen M Menezes Ayres
- Sensory and Consumer Science Laboratory, Postgraduate Program in Food and Nutrition, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro Laboratório, Av. Pasteur, 296 - Urca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Gao M, Wang Z, Jia Z, Zhang H, Wang T. Brassinosteroids alleviate nanoplastic toxicity in edible plants by activating antioxidant defense systems and suppressing nanoplastic uptake. Environ Int 2023; 174:107901. [PMID: 37003216 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.107901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [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: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
As emerging pollutants of global concern, absorbed nanoplastics might have negative impacts on plant development and nutrient uptake, thereby decreasing yields. If nanoplastics are transferred to the edible parts of plants, they may pose a threat to human health when large quantities are ingested. While nanoplastic-induced phytotoxicity is attracting increasing attention, little is known about how to inhibit nanoplastic accumulation in plants and reduce the subsequent adverse effects. Here we investigated the absorption and accumulation of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) in different plant species and the role of brassinosteroids in alleviating PS-NP toxicity. Brassinosteroids inhibited accumulation of PS-NPs in tomato fruit and reversed PS-NP-induced phytotoxicity to promote plant growth and increase fresh weight and plant height. Brassinosteroids also reversed the induction of aquaporin-related genes by PS-NPs including TIP2-1, TIP2-2, PIP2-6, PIP2-8, PIP2-9, SIP2-1, and NIP1-2, providing a potential stress mechanism by which PS-NPs accumulate in the edible parts and targets for inhibition. In transcriptomic analyses, brassinosteroids enhanced fatty acid and amino acid metabolism and synthesis. In conclusion, exogenous application of 50 nM brassinosteroids alleviated the adverse effects of PS-NPs on plants, and exogenous application of brassinosteroids might be an effective means to minimize PS-NP-induced phytotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingyang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Zhongtang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Zhenzhen Jia
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China
| | - Hongyan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China.
| | - Tian Wang
- Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety of Shandong Normal University, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Pereira LV, Salvador MR, Silva BS, Pinheiro-Sant'Ana HM, Della Lucia CM, Teixeira RDBL, Cardoso LDM. Nutritional aspects of non-conventional edible plants from Brazil: Caruru (Amaranthus spinosus L) and trapoeraba (Commelina benghalensis). Food Res Int 2023; 166:112583. [PMID: 36914315 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.112583] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Caruru (Amaranthus spinosus L) and trapoeraba (Commelina benghalensis) are NCEPs introduced into Brazil and are widely used by certain communities. Given the lack of information on carotenoids, vitamins, and minerals present in A. spinosus and C. benghalensis grown in Brazil, this study aimed to determine the proximate composition and the micronutrient profile of these two NCEPs obtained from family farming in the Middle Doce River (Médio Rio Doce) region in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The proximate composition was evaluated using AOAC methods, vitamin E by HPLC with fluorescence detection, vitamin C and carotenoids by HPLC-DAD, and minerals by atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma. In summary, the leaves of A. spinosus exhibited a high content of dietary fiber (10.20 g.100 g-1), potassium (708.8 mg·100 g-1), iron (4.0 mg·100 g-1) and β-carotene (6.94 mg·100 g-1), while the leaves of C. benghalensis were sources of potassium (1399.31 mg·100 g-1), iron (5.7 mg·100 g-1), calcium (163 mg·100 g-1), zinc (1.3 mg·100 g-1), ascorbic acid (23.61 mg·100 g-1), and β-carotene (31.33 mg·100 g-1). It was therefore concluded that C. benghalensis and A. spinosus, especially, presented excellent potential as important nutritional sources for human consumption, highlighting the gap existing between the available technical and scientific material, thus making them an important and necessary axis of research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucélia Vieira Pereira
- Postgraduate Program in Applied Health Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG, Brazil.
| | - Maiara Rodrigues Salvador
- Multicenter Postgraduate Program in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Souza Silva
- Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Leandro de Morais Cardoso
- Postgraduate Program in Applied Health Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG, Brazil; Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Khan AH, Adil M, Aziz MA, Sõukand R, Pieroni A. Traditional foraging for ecological transition? Wild food ethnobotany among three ethnic groups in the highlands of the eastern Hindukush, North Pakistan. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2023; 19:9. [PMID: 37004043 PMCID: PMC10064566 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00581-9] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Patrak Valley is home to communities, which have been inextricably linked with nature for generations, and local plant knowledge (LPK) represents an important part of their local cultural diversity. In general, globalization has come at the expense of local plant knowledge among several mountain societies, and therefore the current investigation has been undertaken to record the (possibly) last remaining wild food plant/mushroom foraging practices among Pathans, Kohistanis, and Gujjars living in the highlands of the Hindukush, North Pakistan. METHODS Data on the uses of wild food plants and mushrooms (WFPs) were collected through 120 semi-structured interviews. The data were cross-culturally compared among the three linguistic groups. Venn diagrams were used to visualize the comparative analysis. To determine the patterns of similarities in plant use among the different ethnic groups, we used the Jaccard similarity index (JI). The recorded data were also compared with the existing Pakistani food ethnobotanical literature. RESULTS A total of 68 WFPs were recorded, the majority of which were used as raw snacks and as cooked vegetables. Fruit was the most frequently reported plant part among the three researched groups. Cross-cultural comparison revealed that 37% of the used plants were commonly shared by the three studied groups. Pathans have retained rich knowledge on WFPs, and they show a comparatively closer affinity with Kohistanis is the use of WFPs compared to Gujjars. While we observed some idiosyncrasies for each of the researched groups, the distinctive plant uses among Gujjars provide insight into their food ecology, their particular human-ecological system centered on mobile pastoralism and their limited exchanges of local food/ecological knowledge due to endogamic patterns. A literature survey revealed some novel or little-known ingredients within Pakistani food ethnobotany/ethnomycology, such as Aesculus indica, Agaricus campestris, Apteranthes tuberculata, Duchesnea indica, Equisetum arvense, Eremurus himalaicus, Isodon rugosus, Morella esculenta, Sophora mollis, and Drimia indica. CONCLUSION The researched communities have retained important plant knowledge which could be implemented through future development programs considering that most of these traditional foraging practices fulfill environmental and social sustainability standards. Further field studies are required to thoroughly investigate the patterns of foraging among highland pastoral societies in other parts of the Hindukush region and especially their potential for the ongoing ecological transition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Hasan Khan
- Qurtuba University of Science and Information Technology D.I Khan,, Peshawar Khyber, Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Adil
- Qurtuba University of Science and Information Technology D.I Khan,, Peshawar Khyber, Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Abdul Aziz
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy.
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II 9, 12042, Pollenzo, Bra, Italy.
| | - Renata Sõukand
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Pieroni
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II 9, 12042, Pollenzo, Bra, Italy
- Department of Medical Analysis, Tishk International University, Erbil, 4401, Kurdistan, Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhang Y, Kuang F, Liu C, Ma K, Liu T, Zhao M, Lv G, Huang H. Contamination and Health Risk Assessment of Multiple Mycotoxins in Edible and Medicinal Plants. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15030209. [PMID: 36977100 PMCID: PMC10056361 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15030209] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible and medicinal plants (EMPs) are widely used but are easily infected by harmful fungi which produce mycotoxins. Herein, 127 samples from 11 provinces were collected to investigate 15 mycotoxins based on geographic, demographic, processing, and risk characteristics. A total of 13 mycotoxins were detected, and aflatoxin B1 (0.56~97.00 μg/kg), deoxynivalenol (9.41~1570.35 μg/kg), fumonisin B1 (8.25~1875.77 μg/kg), fumonisin B2 (2.74~543.01 μg/kg), ochratoxin A (0.62~19.30 μg/kg), and zearalenone (1.64~2376.58 μg/kg) occurred more frequently. Mycotoxin levels and species were significantly different by region, types of EMPs, and method of processing. The margin of exposure (MOE) values was well below the safe MOE (10,000). AFB1 exposure from Coix seed and malt consumption in China was of high health concern. The hazard Index (HI) method showed the range of 113.15~130.73% for malt, indicating a public health concern. In conclusion, EMPs should be concerned because of the cumulative effects of co-occurred mycotoxins, and safety management strategies should be developed in follow-up studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingyue Zhang
- School of Life Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Fengyan Kuang
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Chunyao Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Kai Ma
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Tianyu Liu
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Meijuan Zhao
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Guangping Lv
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Correspondence: (G.L.); (H.H.)
| | - He Huang
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Food Laboratory of Zhongyuan, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Correspondence: (G.L.); (H.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
De Rossi S, Di Marco G, D'Agostino A, Braglia R, Mecca G, Canini A, Gismondi A. Influence of environmental conditions on the production of nutraceuticals in Italian edible plant landraces. Food Res Int 2023; 165:112483. [PMID: 36869496 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.112483] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Autochthonous plant varieties, also referred to as landraces, represent an important genetic resource, being well-adapted to the environment in which they have been selected. Landraces usually show profiles rich in nutraceuticals, making them an effective and valuable alternative to commercial agri-products, as well as potential candidates for crop improvement programs. Basilicata region is recognized as an Italian hotspot for agrobiodiversity, due to its complex orography. Thus, this work aimed to characterize and monitor, for two successive years, the content of secondary metabolites and related antioxidant properties of seven different species, four officinal (i.e., wild fennel - Feoniculum vulgare Mill.; oregano - Origanum vulgare L.; thyme - Thymus vulgaris L.; valerian - Valeriana officinalis L.) and three fruit species (i.e., fig - Ficus carica L. cv. Dottato; sweet cherry Prunus avium L. cv. Majatica; plum - Prunus domestica L. cv. Cascavella Gialla), collected in three different sites of this region. In detail, spectrophotometric tests were performed to assess the concentration of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and - for officinal plants - also terpenoids, together with the antiradical activity (FRAP assays). In addition, to better typify the phytocomplexes of these landraces, HPLC-DAD and GC-MS analyses were carried out. In general, officinal plants showed higher values of nutraceutical compounds and related bioactivity with respect to fruit species. The data showed how different accessions of the same species had different phytochemical profiles, according to the sampling area and the year of collection, suggesting a role for both genetic and environmental factors in determining the observed results. Therefore, the final goal of this research was also to find a possible correlation between environmental factors and nutraceutics. The greatest correlation was found in valerian, where a lower water intake seemed to lead to a higher accumulation of antioxidants, and in plum, where the flavonoid content correlated positively with high temperatures. All these outcomes contribute at valorising Basilicata landraces for their aptitude to be high-quality foods and, at the same time, promoting the preservation of the agrobiodiversity for this region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia De Rossi
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00132 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Di Marco
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00132 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia D'Agostino
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00132 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Braglia
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00132 Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Mecca
- EXO-Ricerca Soc. Consortile a r.l., Via del Gallitello 116/I, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Antonella Canini
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00132 Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Gismondi
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1, 00132 Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Amin M, Aziz MA, Pieroni A, Nazir A, Al-Ghamdi AA, Kangal A, Ahmad K, Abbasi AM. Edible wild plant species used by different linguistic groups of Kohistan Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2023; 19:6. [PMID: 36782205 PMCID: PMC9923922 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-023-00577-5] [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] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mountainous territory of Kohistan shelters diverse food plant species and is considered one of the important hotspots of local plant knowledge. In the era of globalization and food commodification, wild food plants (WFPs) play an important role in supporting local food systems and related local knowledge is one of the important pillars of food sustainability across the region. Since the area is populated by different cultural groups and each culture has retained particular knowledge on the local plant species, therefore, to make a cross-culturally comparison, the study was planned to record and compare the local plants knowledge among three linguistic groups viz Gujjar, Kohistani and Shina in order to not only protect the local knowledge but to determine the food cultural adaptations among these groups looking through the lens of their food ethnobotanies. METHODS Field ethnobotanical survey was carried out in 2020-2021 to gather the data on wild food plants. We used semi-structured interviews. Use reports were counted, and the results were visualized through Venn diagrams. RESULTS In total, 64 plant species belonging to 45 botanical families were documented. Among these Ajuga integrifolia, Barbarea verna, Clematis grata, Impatiens edgeworthii, Ranunculus laetus (vegetables), Parrotiopsis jacquemontiana (fruit), Indigofera tinctoria (flower), Juniperus excelsa, Primula elliptica, P. macrophylla (flavoring agent), Leontopodium himalayanum (Chewing gum), and Juniperus excelsa (snuff) were reported for the first time. The highest use reports (≥ 90) were recorded for Mentha longifolia, Amaranthus hybridus, Quercus semecarpifolia, Solanum miniatum, Oxalis corniculata, Ficus palmata, and Urtica dioica. Maximum number of wild food plant species (WFPs) were reported by Kohistani, followed by Shinaki and Gujjari linguistic groups. The percentage overlap of traditional knowledge on WFPs was highest among Kohistani and Shinaki (56.0%), followed by Shinaki and Gujjars (17.0%), and Kohistani and Gujjars (15.0%). Kohistani and Shinaki groups exhibited maximum homogeneity in traditional knowledge. However, Gujjars had more knowledge on WFPs compared to Kohistani and Shinaki. In addition, some dairy products viz. Bhorus, Bagora, Bak, Cholam, Kacha, Gurloo and Poyeen were reported also reported that are consumed orally and used in traditional cuisines. CONCLUSIONS The study indicates that Kohistan is one of the important spots of biocultural diversity and could be recognized as biocultural refugia. WFPs have been an integral part of the traditional food systems among the studied groups, particularly the Gujjars have reported more distinct plant uses which could be referred to their distinctive ecological experiences among others. However, social change is one of the challenges that might lead to the erosion of local plant knowledge. Moreover, intercultural negotiations among the studied groups are also a matter of concern which could homogenize the local knowledge among them. Therefore, we suggest solid policy measures to protect the local knowledge and celebrate diversity across this mountain territory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Amin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, 22060, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Abdul Aziz
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Pieroni
- University of Gastronomic Sciences of Pollenzo, Piazza V. Emanuele II, 12042, Bra/Pollenzo, Italy
- Department of Medical Analysis, Tishk International University, Kurdistan, Erbil, 4401, Iraq
| | - Abdul Nazir
- Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, 22060, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah Ahmed Al-Ghamdi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aleyna Kangal
- School of Arts and Sciences, New Brunswick-Piscataway Area Campus of Rutgers University, New Brunswick, USA
| | - Khalid Ahmad
- Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, 22060, Pakistan
| | - Arshad Mehmood Abbasi
- Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, 22060, Pakistan.
- University of Gastronomic Sciences of Pollenzo, Piazza V. Emanuele II, 12042, Bra/Pollenzo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Cuevas-Cianca SI, Romero-Castillo C, Gálvez-Romero JL, Juárez ZN, Hernández LR. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds from Edible Plants with Anti-Cancer Activity and Their Potential Use as Drugs. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031488. [PMID: 36771154 PMCID: PMC9920972 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Food is our daily companion, performing numerous beneficial functions for our bodies. Many of them can help to alleviate or prevent ailments and diseases. In this review, an extensive bibliographic search is conducted in various databases to update information on unprocessed foods with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can aid in treating diseases such as cancer. The current state of knowledge on inflammatory processes involving some interleukins and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is reviewed. As well as unprocessed foods, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are important factors in cancer development. Many studies are still needed to take full advantage of the food products we use daily.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofía Isabel Cuevas-Cianca
- Department of Chemical Biological Sciences, Universidad de las Américas Puebla, Ex Hacienda Sta. Catarina Mártir S/N, San Andrés Cholula 72810, Mexico
| | - Cristian Romero-Castillo
- Biotechnology Faculty, Deanship of Biological Sciences, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla, 21 Sur 1103 Barrio Santiago, Puebla 72410, Mexico
- Chemistry Area, Deanship of Biological Sciences, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla, 21 Sur 1103 Barrio Santiago, Puebla 72410, Mexico
| | - José Luis Gálvez-Romero
- ISSTE Puebla Hospital Regional, Boulevard 14 Sur 4336, Colonia Jardines de San Manuel, Puebla 72570, Mexico
| | - Zaida Nelly Juárez
- Chemistry Area, Deanship of Biological Sciences, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla, 21 Sur 1103 Barrio Santiago, Puebla 72410, Mexico
- Correspondence: (Z.N.J.); (L.R.H.)
| | - Luis Ricardo Hernández
- Department of Chemical Biological Sciences, Universidad de las Américas Puebla, Ex Hacienda Sta. Catarina Mártir S/N, San Andrés Cholula 72810, Mexico
- Correspondence: (Z.N.J.); (L.R.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Pironon S, Cantwell-Jones A, Forest F, Ball J, Diazgranados M, Douglas R, Hawkins J, Howes MJR, Ulian T, Vaitla B, Collar D. Towards an action plan for characterizing food plant diversity. Nat Plants 2023; 9:34-35. [PMID: 36543935 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-022-01300-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S Pironon
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, UK.
- UN Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre, Cambridge, UK.
| | - A Cantwell-Jones
- Science and Solutions for a Changing Planet DTP, Imperial College London, Ascot, UK
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Ascot, UK
| | - F Forest
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, UK
| | - J Ball
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, UK
| | | | | | - J Hawkins
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | | | - T Ulian
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, UK
| | - B Vaitla
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - D Collar
- Department of Organismal and Environmental Biology, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Geng J, Liu X, Wang J, Li S. Accumulation and risk assessment of antibiotics in edible plants grown in contaminated farmlands: A review. Sci Total Environ 2022; 853:158616. [PMID: 36089029 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [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: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The extensive occurrence of antibiotics in farmland soil might threaten food safety. The bioaccumulation potential of antibiotics in edible vegetables and crops grown under realistic farming scenarios was reviewed and the human health risk was assessed. A total of 51 antibiotics were documented in 37 species of daily consumed crops. Among different classes of antibiotics, tetracyclines (TCs) exhibited higher residue levels in plants than quinolones (QNs), sulfonamides (SAs), and macrolides (MLs), with median values ranging from 5.10 to 15.4 μg/kg dry weight. The favored accumulation of TCs in plants was probably linked to their relatively higher residual concentrations in soils and greater bioconcentration factors. Compared with the plants grown in open field, accumulation of antibiotics was higher in plant grown under greenhouse condition, probably due to the higher residue levels of antibiotics in the greenhouse soil with intensive application of manure. Cocktails of antibiotics were investigated in potato, corn, carrot, tomato, lettuce, and wheat. Among them, corn exhibited relatively high median concentrations of antibiotics (0.400-203 μg/kg dry weight). Antibiotics tended to accumulate in plant root and their concentrations in fruit were generally low. Risk assessment revealed that human health risk was under the alert line through the daily consumption of antibiotic contaminated vegetables and food crops.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiagen Geng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiaoying Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Si Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; Yantai Institute of China Agriculture University, Yantai 264670, China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Xie J, Liu F, Jia X, Zhao Y, Liu X, Luo M, He Y, Liu S, Wu F. Ethnobotanical study of the wild edible and healthy functional plant resources of the Gelao people in northern Guizhou, China. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2022; 18:72. [PMID: 36536370 PMCID: PMC9761637 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-022-00572-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Gelao people are a unique minority in Southwest China with a unique culture for the utilization of edible plants, including a large number of medicinal plants. They believe that at least 61 species are edible and have medicinal value. Ethnobotany research can reveal the local knowledge of the Gelao people regarding the traditional use of plants and the relationship between this minority and their living environment to help retain and pass on this traditional knowledge forever. METHODS Edible wild plants and their applied ethnic knowledge were investigated in three counties in northern Guizhou. Gelao residents were the main informants, and literature search, village interviews, participatory observation and quantitative ethnobotany evaluation were used. RESULTS A total of 151 species of wild plants in 67 families are collected and eaten by Gelao residents, among which 61 species were considered to have medicinal value, accounting for 40.4% of the total, and 43 were listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. There were 57 plant species with fruits as their edible parts, which are consumed as snacks, followed by 54 species whose young seedlings and leaves are the edible parts, most of which are consumed cold or stir-fried. Other edible parts included roots or rhizomes (bulbs), flowers, whole plants, seeds, fruiting bodies and stems. There were two consumption modes: raw and cooked. Raw foods were mainly consumed as snacks, which mainly comprise fruits. Cooked foods were mainly vegetables consumed cold or stir-fried. Some plants were used as seasonings, infused wines, condiments and grains. The main medicinal functions were nourishing and reducing heatiness. Nourishing plants were mainly "shen" plants and Liliaceae, while plants able to reduce heatiness were mainly Asteraceae. Others functions included anti-hangover, anticancer and insecticidal. There were 38 species of important edible wild plants (CFSI > 500) in northern Guizhou, which had a high utilization rate. Houttuynia cordata Thunb. and Mentha suaveolens Ehrh. were the most representative edible wild plants in this area. The species, edible parts, edible categories, consumption modes and medicinal functions of edible wild plants in this area are diverse, and the traditional knowledge on their uses is rich. However, the number of wild plant species eaten by the informants and their related knowledge were positively correlated with age, which indicates that the rich traditional knowledge in this area is gradually disappearing with urbanization. CONCLUSIONS The Gelao have a rich history of consuming wild plants. With the development of the social economy, the traditional knowledge passed from older generations is gradually being lost and its inheritance is facing great risks. This study collects, sorts and spreads this precious traditional knowledge, which is of great value to its protection and inheritance and fully demonstrates the value and importance of our work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Xie
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
- Guizhou Medical and Health Industry Research Institute, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
| | - Fusong Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
| | - Xiaohuan Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
| | - Yongxia Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
- Guizhou Medical and Health Industry Research Institute, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
| | - Xiaoqi Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
| | - Mingxia Luo
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
| | - Yuqi He
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
| | - Sha Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
| | - Faming Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
- Guizhou Medical and Health Industry Research Institute, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000 China
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025 China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
D'Agostino A, Di Marco G, Marvelli S, Marchesini M, Rizzoli E, Rolfo MF, Canini A, Gismondi A. Neolithic dental calculi provide evidence for environmental proxies and consumption of wild edible fruits and herbs in central Apennines. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1384. [PMID: 36536113 PMCID: PMC9763411 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04354-0] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Looking for a biological fingerprint relative to new aspects of the relationship between humans and natural environment during prehistoric times is challenging. Although many issues still need to be addressed in terms of authentication and identification, microparticles hidden in ancient dental calculus can provide interesting information for bridging this gap of knowledge. Here, we show evidence about the role of edible plants for the early Neolithic individuals in the central Apennines of the Italian peninsula and relative cultural landscape. Dental calculi from human and animal specimens exhumed at Grotta Mora Cavorso (Lazio), one of the largest prehistoric burial deposits, have returned an archaeobotanical record made up of several types of palaeoecological proxies. The organic fraction of this matrix was investigated by a multidisciplinary approach, whose novelty consisted in the application of next generation sequencing to ancient plant DNA fragments, specifically codifying for maturase K barcode gene. Panicoideae and Triticeae starches, together with genetic indicators of Rosaceae fruits, figs, and Lamiaceae herbs, suggested subsistence practices most likely still based on wild plant resources. On the other hand, pollen, and non-pollen palynomorphs allowed us to outline a general vegetational framework dominated by woodland patches alternated with meadows, where semi-permanent settlements could have been established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessia D'Agostino
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Botany, Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Di Marco
- Laboratory of Botany, Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Marvelli
- Laboratorio di Palinologia e Archeobotanica-C.A.A. Giorgio Nicoli, San Giovanni in Persiceto, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Marchesini
- Laboratorio di Palinologia e Archeobotanica-C.A.A. Giorgio Nicoli, San Giovanni in Persiceto, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Rizzoli
- Laboratorio di Palinologia e Archeobotanica-C.A.A. Giorgio Nicoli, San Giovanni in Persiceto, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mario Federico Rolfo
- Department of History, Culture and Society, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Canini
- Laboratory of Botany, Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Gismondi
- Laboratory of Botany, Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Guo CA, Ding X, Hu H, Zhang Y, Yang H, Wang Y. An ethnobotanical study on wild plants used by Tibetan people in Gyirong Valley, Tibet, China. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2022; 18:67. [PMID: 36401315 PMCID: PMC9675253 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-022-00565-1] [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] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gyirong Valley known as the "Back Garden of the Himalayas" is located in the core area of the Everest National Nature Reserve. It is also one of the important ports from ancient Tibet to Kathmandu, Nepal, since ancient times. Over the years, the Tibetans of Gyirong had accumulated sufficient traditional knowledge about local plant resources. However, there is almost no comprehensive report available on ethnobotanical knowledge about the local people. The purposes of this study were to (1) conduct a comprehensive study of wild plants used by Tibetan people in Gyirong Valley and record the traditional knowledge associated with wild useful plants, (2) explore the influence of Tibetan traditional culture and economic development on the use of wild plants by local people, and (3) explore the characteristics of traditional knowledge about wild plants of Tibetans in Gyirong. METHODS Ethnobotanical data were documented through free listings, key informant interviews and semi-structured interviews during fieldwork. The culture importance index and the informant consensus factor index were used as quantitative indices. RESULTS In total, 120 informants (61 women and 59 men) and 3333 use reports and 111 wild plant species belonging to 39 families and 81 genera were included. These use reports were then classified into 27 categories belonging to three major categories. The use category that contained the most plant species was edible plants (62), followed by medicinal plants (32) and economic plants (22), and other uses (71). Plants with high CI included Allium prattii, Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora, Gymnadenia orchidis, Rhododendron anthopogon and Fritillaria cirrhosa. Thirty-six species of plants in the catalog of Gyirong and Yadong were the same, but only 17 species were the same in Gyirong and Burang. There were only 11 overlapping species between all the three regions. CONCLUSION Tibetans of Gyirong have rich and unique knowledge about plant use, and wild edible and medicinal plants play an important role in the nutrition and health protection of local people. However, traditional knowledge is slowly being lost and is being hit by modern tourism. In the future, more attention needs to be paid to the important role of traditional knowledge in biodiversity conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang-An Guo
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132# Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyong Ding
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132# Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
- National Centre for Borderland Ethnic Studies in Southwest China, Yunnan University, Kunming, 650091 China
| | - Huabin Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Plant Resources and Sustainable Use, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla, 666303 Yunnan China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132# Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| | - Huizhao Yang
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132# Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| | - Yuhua Wang
- Department of Economic Plants and Biotechnology, Yunnan Key Laboratory for Wild Plant Resources, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 132# Lanhei Road, Heilongtan, Kunming, 650201 Yunnan China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Aloysius M, Felekkis KN, Petrou C, Papandreou D, Andreou E. Chitosan Nanogel with Mixed Food Plants and Its Relation to Blood Glucose in Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic and Meta-Analysis Review of Observational Studies. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14224710. [PMID: 36432398 PMCID: PMC9694128 DOI: 10.3390/nu14224710] [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: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
This systematic review with metanalysis evaluated and analyzed the beneficial effects of certain plants food in type 2 diabetes (T2D) when consumed alone or in combination with chitosan. The main objective of the paper was to examine the relation of chitosan nanogel and mixed food plant (MFP) to control T2D. The databases included Medline, Scopus, PubMed, as well as Cochrane available between the month of January 1990 to January 2021. The eligibility criteria for selecting studies were case-controlled studies that included unripe plantain, bitter yam, okra, and chitosan either used-alone or in combination with non-specified food plants (NSFP). Two-fold autonomous critics retrieved the information required and evaluated the risk of bias of involved studies. Random-effect meta-analyses on blood glucose controls, were performed. Results of 18 studies included: seven that examined unripe plantains, one bitter yam, two okras, and eight chitosan, found regarding the decrease in blood glucose level. Meta-analysis of the results found a large proportion of I2 values for all studies (98%), meaning heterogeneity. As a consequence, the combined effect sizes were not useful. Instead, prediction interval (PI) was used (mean difference 4.4 mg/dL, 95% PI -6.65 to 15.50 and mean difference 3.4 mg/dL, 95% PI -23.65 to 30.50) rather than the estimate of its confidence interval (CI). These studies were at 50% high risk of bias and 50% low risk of bias and there was judged to be an unclear risk of bias due to the insufficient information from the included study protocol (moderately low). The intervention lasted between three and 84 days, indicating potency and effectiveness of the intervention at both short and long durations. Due to the moderately low quality of the studies, the findings were cautiously interpreted. In conclusion, the current evidence available from the study does support the relation of chitosan with mixed unripe plantain, bitter yam and okra for the management of T2D. Further high-quality case-controlled animal studies are required to substantiate if indeed chitosan nanogel should be cross-linked with the specified food plant (SFP) for the management T2D.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morris Aloysius
- Department of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 46 Makedonitissas Ave., CY-2417, P.O. Box 24005, Nicosia CY-1700, Cyprus
| | - Kyriacos N. Felekkis
- Department of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 46 Makedonitissas Ave., CY-2417, P.O. Box 24005, Nicosia CY-1700, Cyprus
| | - Christos Petrou
- Department of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 46 Makedonitissas Ave., CY-2417, P.O. Box 24005, Nicosia CY-1700, Cyprus
| | - Dimitrios Papandreou
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Khalifa B City, Abu Dhabi 144534, United Arab Emirates
| | - Eleni Andreou
- Department of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 46 Makedonitissas Ave., CY-2417, P.O. Box 24005, Nicosia CY-1700, Cyprus
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +357-9946-4040 or +357-2284-1740
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Muhammad J, Xu P, Khan S, Su JQ, Sarwar T, Nazneen S, Khan A. Arsenic contribution of poultry manure towards soils and food plants contamination and associated cancer risk in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Environ Geochem Health 2022; 44:3321-3342. [PMID: 34542787 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-021-01096-6] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to high level of arsenic (As) through the ingestion of contaminated soil, dust and food plants can pose health risk to humans. This study investigates the total arsenic (As), arsenobetaine (AsB), monomethylarsenate (MMA), dimethylarsenate (DMA), arsenite (As3+) and arsenate (As5+) concentrations in poultry feed, manure, agricultural soils and food plants collected from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan. The total mean As concentrations in the edible parts of food plants ranged from 0.096 mg kg-1 to 1.25 mg kg-1 with percentile (P) values (P25-0.039, P50-0.0765, P75-0.165 1 mg kg-1 to P25-0.95, P50-1.23, P75-1.6 1 mg kg-1) and exceeded the food safety limit (0.1 mg kg-1) of Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO) in all plant species except Pisum sativum (pea) and Mentha arvensis (mint). The risk to human health was assessed through the average daily intake (ADI), hazards quotient (HQ), health risk index (HRI) and lifetime cancer risk (LTCR). The highest average daily intake of As via the ingestion of Malva neglecta (mallow, a leafy plant) was observed for adults and children. The ADI for adults and children (2.36 × 10-4 mg kg-1 day-1 and 6.33 × 10-4 mg kg-1 day-1) was about 13% and 5%, respectively, of the Bench Mark Dose Limit (BMDL0.5) of 3.00 × 10-3 mg kg-1 day-1 set by WHO. The HRI was 3 times more in the children (2.1) than the adults (0.79), posing non-cancer health risks (health risk index > 1) for children. The LTCR values were slightly higher (1.53 × 10-4) relative to USEPA and WHO limits (1 × 10-6 to 1 × 10-4) for children whereas a minimal cancer risk was observed for adults via consumption of selected food plants. The results showed that poultry manure can contaminate food plants that may lead to cancer and non-cancer risks in agricultural areas, Pakistan. Thus, it is important to minimize As concentration in poultry feed to safeguard human health and environment from adverse effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juma Muhammad
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sheringal, Dir Upper, Pakistan
- Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Ping Xu
- China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Sardar Khan
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan.
| | - Jian Qiang Su
- Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Tasneem Sarwar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan
| | - Shahla Nazneen
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan
| | - Alamgir Khan
- Department of Forestry, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sheringal, Dir Upper, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|