A two-step method of cyclolinopeptide (linusorb) preparation from flaxseed cake via dry-screening

Linusorbs (LO), cyclolinopeptides, are a group of cyclic hydrophobic peptides and considered a valuable by-product of flaxseed oil due to numerous health benefits. Currently applied acetone or methanol extraction could contaminate the feedstocks for further food-grade application. Using flaxseed cake as feedstock, this study established a practical method for preparing LO from pressed cake. Firstly, LO composition of 15 flaxseed cultivars was analyzed. Next, cold-pressed cake was milled and screened mechanically. The kernel and hull fractions were separated based on the disparity of their mechanical strength. Monitored by hyperspectral fluorescence, the LO-enriched kernel fraction separated from cold-pressed flaxseed cake was further used as feedstock for LO production. After ethanol extraction, partition, and precipitation, LOs were extracted from cold-pressed flaxseed cake with a purity of 91.4%. The proposed method could serve as feasible flaxseed cake valorization strategy and enable the preparation of other polar compounds such as flax lignan and mucilage.

Stability of tryptophan-containing LOs in flaxseed oil and their response towards γ-tocopherol

Linusorbs (LOs), significantly influence oil quality and sensory properties of flaxseed oil. Trp-containing LOs exhibit distinct oxidative behavior when γ-tocopherol (γ-T) is present. Polar fractions of crude flaxseed oil were stripped via silica absorption, and reintroduced (LO and γ-T) separately into the oil matrix to investigate their interaction during storage. Compared with crude oil, LOs account for 18.49% reduction of p-anisidine value, while LOs with γ-T contributed to most of the endogenous antioxidant effect in crude oil. γ-T was found to suppress oxidation of Trp-containing LO at early stage (Met form), while facilitate oxidation while at their mid-stage (MetO form, Methionine sulfoxide). In vitro oxidation shows that CLD more likely cleaved into peptide fragments, while few products retain intact ring structures. LC-MS/MS analysis and silicon simulation revealed proximity between MetO and Trp residues, facilitating inter- or intra-molecular reactions and ring structure rupture. Remarkably, the presence of γ-T facilitate these phenomena.

Mycoproteins and their health-promoting properties: Fusarium species and beyond

Filamentous fungal mycoproteins have gained increasing attention as sustainable alternatives to animal and plant-based proteins. This comprehensive review summarizes the nutritional characteristics, toxicological aspects, and health-promoting effects of mycoproteins, focusing on those derived from filamentous fungi, notably Fusarium venenatum. Mycoproteins are characterized by their high protein content, and they have a superior essential amino acid profile compared to soybeans indicating excellent protein quality and benefits for human nutrition. Additionally, mycoproteins offer enhanced digestibility, further highlighting their suitability as a protein source. Furthermore, mycoproteins are rich in dietary fibers, which have been associated with health benefits, including protection against metabolic diseases. Moreover, their fatty acids profile, with significant proportions of polyunsaturated fatty acids and absence of cholesterol, distinguishes them from animal-derived proteins. In conclusion, the future of mycoproteins as a health-promoting protein alternative and the development of functional foods relies on several key aspects. These include improving the acceptance of mycoproteins, conducting further research into their mechanisms of action, addressing consumer preferences and perceptions, and ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. To fully unlock the potential of mycoproteins and meet the evolving needs of a health-conscious society, continuous interdisciplinary research, collaboration among stakeholders, and proactive engagement with consumers will be vital.

A comparative study on flaxseed lignan biotransformation through resting cell catalysis and microbial fermentation by β-glucosidase production Lactiplantibacillus plantarum

BACKGROUND

Flax lignan has attracted much attention because of its potential bioactivities. However, the bioavailability of secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), the main lignan in flaxseed, depends on the bioconversion by the colon bacteria. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with β-glucosidase activity has found wide application in preparing bioactive aglycone.

RESULTS

LAB strains with good β-glucosidase activity were isolated from fermented tofu. Their bioconversion of flax lignan extract was investigated by resting cell catalysis and microbial fermentation, and the metabolism of SDG by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum C5 following fermentation was characterized by widely targeted metabolomics. Five L. plantarum strains producing β-glucosidase with broad substrate specificity were isolated and identified, and they all can transform SDG into secoisolariciresinol (SECO). L. plantarum C5 resting cell reached a maximum SDG conversion of 49.19 ± 3.75%, and SECO generation of 21.49 ± 1.32% (0.215 ± 0.013 mm) at an SDG substrate concentration of 1 mM and 0.477 ± 0.003 mm SECO was produced at 4 mm within 24 h. Although sixteen flax lignan metabolites were identified following the fermentation of SDG extract by L. plantarum C5, among them, four were produced following the fermentation: SECO, demethyl-SECO, demethyl-dehydroxy-SECO and isolariciresinol. Moreover, seven lignans increased significantly.

CONCLUSION

Fermentation significantly increased the profile and level of flax lignan metabolites, and the resting cell catalysis benefits from higher bioconversion efficiency and more straightforward product separation. Resting cell catalysis and microbial fermentation of flax lignan extract by the isolated β-glucosidase production L. plantarum could be potentially applied in preparing flax lignan ingredients and fermented flaxseed. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

The Impacts of Standardized Flaxseed Meal (XanFlax) on the Physicochemical, Textural, and Sensory Properties of Muffins

Flaxseed is becoming increasingly popular as a superfood due to its many health benefits. While flaxseed is considered an oilseed, flaxseed meal (the by-product of flaxseed oil extraction) also contains many nutritional compounds not found in the oil. This study explored the use of a Canadian flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) meal product to fortify bakery foods and improve their nutritional properties. Muffins were made using a control recipe as well as four different formulations that included varying amounts of a standardized flaxseed meal supplement called XanFlax (5, 10, 20, and 40%). The physicochemical properties of the muffins, including their texture, color, sugar content, pH, specific gravity, loss rate, and moisture, were evaluated. Additionally, the sensory attributes contributing to muffin quality were thoroughly examined. The lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*) of the muffins, which were highest in the control group at 82.22 and 34.69, respectively, decreased as the amount of XanFlax increased (p < 0.05). Additionally, the redness (a*) of the muffins increased as the amount of XanFlax increased (p < 0.05). The muffins' sugar content (2.00 brix%) remained consistent across all treatments and controls except for those prepared with 20% XanFlax (2.17 brix%). As the amount of XanFlax powder increased, the pH of the muffins increased significantly. The moisture content in the muffins was highest at 23.71 ± 0.79% in the 10% XanFlax treatment and lowest at 22.06 ± 0.30% in the 40% XanFlax treatment. The muffins enriched with 5% XanFlax had an average height of 5.35 cm and volume of 131.33 mL, surpassing the results for the muffins made with other formulas (p < 0.05). Additionally, the cohesiveness and gumminess of the muffins tended to increase with the addition of XanFlax. The most favorable attributes, namely the appearance, flavor, taste, texture, and overall acceptance, were consistently associated with the 5% and 10% XanFlax treatments (p < 0.05). This study marks the first time a standardized flaxseed gum product, XanFlax, has been described in a functional baking application.

Foaming with Starch: Exploring Faba Bean Aquafaba as a Green Alternative

The demand for sustainable and functional plant-based products is on the rise. Plant proteins and polysaccharides often provide emulsification and stabilization properties to food and food ingredients. Recently, chickpea cooking water, also known as aquafaba, has gained popularity as a substitute for egg whites in sauces, food foams, and baked goods due to its foaming and emulsifying capacities. This study presents a modified eco-friendly process to obtain process water from faba beans and isolate and characterize the foam-inducing components. The isolated material exhibits similar functional properties, such as foaming capacity, to aquafaba obtained by cooking pulses. To isolate the foam-inducing component, the faba bean process water was mixed with anhydrous ethanol, and a precipitated fraction was obtained. The precipitate was easily dissolved, and solutions prepared with the alcohol precipitate retained the foaming capacity of the original extract. Enzymatic treatment with α-amylase or protease resulted in reduced foaming capacity, indicating that both protein and carbohydrates contribute to the foaming capacity. The dried precipitate was found to be 23% protein (consisting of vicilin, α-legumin, and β-legumin) and 77% carbohydrate (amylose). Future investigations into the chemical structure of this foam-inducing agent can inform the development of foaming agents through synthetic or enzymatic routes. Overall, this study provides a potential alternative to aquafaba and highlights the importance of exploring plant-based sources for functional ingredients in the food industry.

Electrostatic field as an emergent technology in refining crude oils: a review

Vegetable oils and fatty acid esters (FAEs) are commonly used in various industrial and commercial applications. However, the presence of contaminants in these oils can severely affect their functionality and suitability. Conventional refining techniques for vegetable oils typically involve degumming, neutralization, bleaching and deodorization. Meanwhile, refining of FAEs often utilize wet or dry washing processes. These are often resource-intensive, producing substantial waste products, causing neutral oil loss, and can also result in the loss of micronutrients. To address these challenges, researchers have explored the use of nano-adsorbents and electrostatic field (E-field) technologies as alternatives in purifying industrial dielectric oils by removing polar particles and contaminants. Nano-adsorbents demonstrated increased efficiency in removing polar contamination while minimizing neutral oil loss. However, removal of these spent adsorbents can be challenging due to their nano-size, and physicochemical properties. The use of these materials combined with E-field technologies offers a novel and sustainable solution for removing spent nano-adsorbents and contaminants. This review provides an overview of current traditional and novel refining technologies for vegetable oils and FAEs, including their associated limitations. Compared to conventional methods, E-field treatment offers several advantages, making it an attractive alternative to conventional approaches in food processing and oil refining.

A Metabolomics and Big Data Approach to Cannabis Authenticity (Authentomics)

With the increasing accessibility of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L., also known as marijuana and hemp), its products are being developed as extracts for both recreational and therapeutic use. This has led to increased scrutiny by regulatory bodies, who aim to understand and regulate the complex chemistry of these products to ensure their safety and efficacy. Regulators use targeted analyses to track the concentration of key bioactive metabolites and potentially harmful contaminants, such as metals and other impurities. However, the metabolic complexity of cannabis metabolic pathways requires a more comprehensive approach. A non-targeted metabolomic analysis of cannabis products is necessary to generate data that can be used to determine their authenticity and efficacy. An authentomics approach, which involves combining the non-targeted analysis of new samples with big data comparisons to authenticated historic datasets, provides a robust method for verifying the quality of cannabis products. To meet International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards, it is necessary to implement the authentomics platform technology and build an integrated database of cannabis analytical results. This study is the first to review the topic of the authentomics of cannabis and its potential to meet ISO standards.

A review of flaxseed lignan and the extraction and refinement of secoisolariciresinol diglucoside

Lignan is a class of diphenolic compounds that arise from the condensation of two phenylpropanoid moieties. Oilseed and cereal crops (e.g., flaxseed, sesame seed, wheat, barley, oats, rye, etc.) are major sources of plant lignan. Methods for commercial isolation of the lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) are not well reported, as most publications describing the detection, extraction, and enrichment of SDG use methods that have not been optimized for commercial scale lignan recovery. Simply scaling up laboratory methods would require expensive infrastructure to achieve a marketable yield and reproducible product quality. Therefore, establishing standard protocols to produce SDG and its derivatives on an industrial scale is critical to decrease lignan cost and increase market opportunities. This review summarizes the human health benefits of flaxseed lignan consumption, lignan physicochemical properties, and mammalian lignan metabolism, and describes methods for detecting, extracting, and enriching flaxseed lignan. Refining and optimization of these methods could lead to the development of inexpensive lignan sources for application as an ingredient in medicines, dietary supplements, and other healthy ingredients.

Health benefits of flaxseed and its peptides (linusorbs)

Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) has been associated with numerous health benefits. The flax plant synthesizes an array of biologically active compounds including peptides or linusorbs (LOs, a.k.a., cyclolinopeptides), lignans, soluble dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. The LOs arise from post-translational modification of four or more ribosome-derived precursors. These compounds exhibit an array of biological activities, including suppression of T-cell proliferation, excessive inflammation, and osteoclast replication as well as induction of apoptosis in some cancer cell lines. The mechanisms of LO action are only now being elucidated but these compounds might interact with other active compounds in flaxseed and contribute to biological activity attributed to other flax compounds. This review focuses on both the biological interaction of LOs with proteins and other molecules and comprehensive knowledge of LO pharmacological and biological properties. The physicochemical and nutraceutical properties of LOs, as well as the biological effects of certain LOs, and their underlying mechanisms of action, are reviewed. Finally, strategies for producing LOs by either peptide synthesis or recombinant organisms are presented. This review will be the first to describe LOs as a versatile scaffold for the action of compounds to deliver physiochemically/biologically active molecules for developing novel nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.

Availability of bioactive flax lignan from foods and supplements

Hyperlipidemia, high levels of blood lipids including cholesterol and triglycerides, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Traditional treatments of hyperlipidemia often include lifestyle changes and pharmacotherapy. Recently, flaxseed has been approved as a nutrient that lowers blood lipids. Several metabolites of flaxseed lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), have been identified that reduce blood lipids. SDG is present in flaxseed hull as an ester-linked copolymer with 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric acid (HMGA). However, purification processes involved in hydrolysis of the copolymer and enriching SDG are often expensive. The natural copolymer of SDG with HMGA (SDG polymer) is a source of bioactive compounds useful in prophylaxis of hypercholesterolemia. After consumption of the lignan copolymer, SDG and HMGA are released in the stomach and small intestines. SDG is metabolized to secoisolariciresinol, enterolactone and enterodiol, the bioactive forms of mammalian lignans. These metabolites are then distributed throughout the body where they accumulate in the liver, kidney, skin, other tissues, and organs. Successively, these metabolites reduce blood lipids including cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and lipid peroxidation products. In this review, the metabolism and efficacies of flaxseed-derived enriched SDG and SDG polymer will be discussed.

Hypocholesterolemic Efficacy of Secoisolariciresinol Diglucoside and Its Polymer in Rat

Hypercholesterolemia is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Conventional treatment methods include lifestyle changes and pharmaceutical interventions, but recently Health Canada approved a health claim for whole ground flaxseed as an alternative treatment for hypercholesterolemia. The literature suggests flaxseed lignans are responsible for the cholesterol-reducing effects of flaxseed. In this study, 96.1% secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) and a 50% SDG enriched polymer (SDG polymer) were investigated as treatments for hypercholesterolemia in rats. Wistar female rats were fed a 1% high-cholesterol diet for a one-week acclimatization prior to a 23-day intervention with enriched SDG or SDG polymer. A reduction in body weight normalized liver weight was observed in rats treated with enriched SDG when compared to the controls. Both enriched SDG (96.1%) and SDG polymer reduced serum triacylglycerol (19% and 15%, respectively) and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (15% and 24%, respectively). Histopathologic analyses revealed lipid-lowering effects of either enriched SDG or SDG polymer along with lower steatosis scores and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease activity. Furthermore, the lack of statistical significance between SDG and SDG polymer treatment groups suggests that SDG polymer may be a potential alternative to enriched SDG for hypercholesterolemia with similar efficacy but lower cost.

Aquafaba from Korean Soybean II: Physicochemical Properties and Composition Characterized by NMR Analysis

Aquafaba (AQ) emulsification properties are determined by genetics and seed processing conditions. The physicochemical properties and hydration rates of chickpea (CDC Leader) as a control with proven emulsifying properties were recently reported. Here, we identify correlations between soybean (Backtae, Seoritae, and Jwinunikong) physical, chemical, and hydration properties as well as AQ yield from seed and functional (emulsion and foaming) properties. In addition, a total of 20 compounds were identified by NMR including alcohols (isopropanol, ethanol, methanol), organic acids (lactic acid, acetic acid, succinic acid, citric acid, and malic acid), sugars (glucose, galactose, arabinose, sucrose, raffinose, stachyose), essential nutrients (choline, phosphocholine), amino acids (alanine, glutamine), and polyphenols (resveratrol, glycitin). The process used in this study utilizes a soaking step to hydrate the seed of the selected Korean soybean cultivars. The product, AQ, is an oil emulsifier and foaming agent, which is suitable for use as an egg substitute with improved emulsion/foam formation properties when compared with a chickpea-based AQ.

Oral Pharmacokinetics of Enriched Secoisolariciresinol Diglucoside and Its Polymer in Rats

Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) is the principal lignan of flaxseed and precursor of its aglycone, secoisolariciresinol (SECO), and the mammalian lignans enterolactone (EL) and enterodiol (ED), the putative bioactive forms of oral administration of SDG. SDG is present in the seed hull as an ester-linked polymer. Although extraction and purification of SDG monomer is costly, the use of naturally occurring SDG in polymer form may offer a more economical approach for delivery of this precursor. The extent of SDG release from the polymer and subsequent bioavailability of SDG metabolites are unknown. To understand the relative bioavailability of SDG polymer, this study examined the comparative bioavailability of enriched SDG and SDG polymer in rats after a single oral SDG equivalent dose (40 mg/kg). A validated LC-MS/MS method quantified SDG and its metabolites in rat plasma following serial blood collections. SDG remained undetectable in rat plasma samples. Unconjugated SECO was detected in plasma after 0.25 h. Unconjugated ED was observed after 8 h (3.4 ± 3.3 ng/mL) and 12 h (6.2 ± 3.3 ng/mL) for enriched SDG and SDG polymer, respectively. Total (conjugated and unconjugated) ED and EL resulting from enriched SDG and SDG polymer reached similar maximal concentrations between 11 and 12 h and demonstrated similar total body exposures (AUC values). These data suggest a similar pharmacokinetic profile between the enriched and polymer form of SDG, providing support for the use of SDG polymer as a more economical precursor for SECO, ED, and EL in applications of chronic disease management.

Canadian policy changes for alcohol-based hand rubs during the COVID-19 pandemic and unintended risks

The COVID-19 pandemic led to major changes in public policies to address supply chain disruption and escalated the price of consumer disinfectant products. To address market demands on alcohol-based hand rubs and disinfectants, Health Canada implemented major changes to the regulations regarding composition, handling, transportation, and packaging to insure product availability. Furthermore, accelerated licensing of ingredients and packaging did not meet standard medical quality guidelines yet were authorized for manufacturing and packaging of alcohol-based hand rubs and disinfectants. The accountability associated with these policy changes were reactive, including industry self-reporting, consumer reporting, and Health Canada advisories and recalls that were responsive to products after they were available in the market. Nonetheless, Canadian public health policy increased hand sanitizers availability. However, some of the interim policies have raised major public health concerns associated with ethanol quality, packaging, and labeling, and enforcement of regulations. In this paper, we review the changes in the Canadian regulations amid the current pandemic and we evaluate the unintended health risks that might arise from these changes.

Methionine epimerization in cyclic peptides

Bioactive flax cyclic octa- and nona-peptides containing single methionine (Met) and its oxidized forms were treated under mild alkaline conditions to perform regio-selective epimerization. Cyclic peptide epimerization at the Met α-proton in a single chemical step has not been reported previously. The epimerization rate varies among Met oxidation states and ring size. These d-amino isomers along with the developed Met alkylation strategy will enable an approach to novel chemical functionalization of biomolecules. The amino acid configurations were confirmed by Marfey derivatizations, and cytotoxicity studies show the difference among the isomers. These d-amino analogs can act as a potential biomarker in plant protein processing and biomedical applications.

One step regioselective methionine epimerization in cyclic peptides followed by selective functionalization leads to chemical novelty.

Analyses of Commercially Available Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs Formulated with Compliant and Non-Compliant Ethanol

The COVID-19 pandemic led to panic-buying of alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHRs). In response, governmental agencies (e.g., Health Canada) permitted the sale of ABHRs formulated with "technical-grade" ethanol to alleviate the growing demand. Technical-grade ethanol contains elevated concentrations of impurities (e.g., acetaldehyde, etc.), which may exhibit dose-dependent toxicity. In this study, a rapid solvent extraction was employed to analyze gelled ABHRs via gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. In total, 26 liquid and 16 gelled ABHRs were analyzed for nine common impurities to determine compliance with Health Canada interim guidelines. Of 42 samples analyzed, 11 ABHRs appear to be non-compliant with interim Health Canada guidelines. Non-compliant ABHRs exhibited elevated concentrations of acetaldehyde, with a maximal concentration observed of 251 ± 10 µL L-1; 3.3× higher than currently permitted. Nonetheless, frequent testing of ABHRs should be routinely conducted to reduce the risk of consumer exposure to non-compliant ABHRs.

A practical and fast isolation of 12 cyclolinopeptides (linusorbs) from flaxseed oil via preparative HPLC with phenyl-hexyl column

Linusorbs, known as cyclolinopeptides, are a group of cyclic hydrophobic peptides derived from flaxseed oil with various health benefits. However, the current research efforts on both the biological activities and antioxidant capacities of linusorbs are limited because of existing issues with their purification and characterization. A practical method based on preparative HPLC for isolating 12 linusorbs simultaneously was developed and factors such as the solvent selection, gradient elution program, flow rate, loaded mass, and loading concentration, were optimized. The optimum conditions were an initial acetonitrile (ACN) to water ratio of 40%, final ACN ratio of 80%, eluting time of 21 min, a flow rate of 16 mL/min, sample load of 12.5 mg, and concentration of 80 mg/mL (in methanol). The 12 linusorbs obtained were verified using off-line MS/MS, recording purities of above 95.5%. The method could serve as a practical and fast isolation method enabling further investigation of minor linusorbs.

A novel formulation significantly increases the cytotoxicity of flaxseed orbitides (linusorbs) LOB3 and LOB2 towards human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells

Flaxseed orbitides (linusorbs) are a family of N to C linked bioactive cyclic octa-, nona-, and decapeptides present in flaxseed oil. They are highly hydrophobic and thermally stable. Our previous studies showed that [1-9-NαC]-linusorb B3 (LOB3) and [1-9-NαC]-linusorb B2 (LOB2) exhibited cytotoxic effects towards human breast cancer HER2-subtype Sk-Br-3 cells at a concentration of ~400 μM. However, this high concentration significantly limits their potential clinical applications. In the current study, we developed a novel polyethylene glycol-based formulation for linusorbs and showed that both LOB3 and LOB2, especially LOB3, exhibited strong cytotoxicity towards human breast cancer triple-negative-subtype MDA-MB-231 cells at low nanomolar concentrations.

Changes in Bacterial Populations and Their Metabolism over 90 Sequential Cultures on Wheat-Based Thin Stillage

Wheat-based thin stillage (W-TS) is a liquid co-product of wheat fermentation for ethanol production, which typically contains substantial amounts of glycerol. Two-stage fermentation, via endemic microorganisms, can be used in processes to convert this compound to more valuable products and simplify the enrichment process through the clarification of the medium and concentration of particles as a protein-rich concentrate. We recultured bacteria 90 times (72 h at 37 °C) on fresh W-TS to determine the stability of the culture and metabolic processes. Next-generation sequencing of W-TS revealed the presence of a predominant Lactobacillus community that rapidly displaced competing microorganisms (e.g., Pediococcus) in subsequent fermentations. These organisms produced bacteriocins (e.g., helveticin J, interpreted through the presence of bacteriocin genes) and acidified the fermentation broth (through the production of succinic acid: 1.7 g/L, lactic acid: 1.8 g/L, and acetic acid: 4.1 g/L). Furthermore, the microbial community produced cobalamin (inferred through sequencing) and converted glycerol (10 g/L reduced to 3.5 g/L after 72 h) to 1,3-propanediol (6.1 g/L after 72 h). Altogether, Lactobacilli were identified as the predominant endemic microorganisms in W-TS after the first 10 cultures. The community was stable and provided a novel approach to increase the value of organic solutes in W-TS.

Ionic strength and hydrogen bonding effects on whey protein isolate-flaxseed gum coacervate rheology

Whey protein isolate (WPI) was mixed with anionic flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) gum (FG), and phase transition during coacervate formation was monitored. Effects of ionic strength and hydrogen bonding on coacervation of WPI-FG system and corresponding rheological properties were investigated. During coacervate formation, structural transitions were confirmed by both turbidimetry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Increasing ionic strength with sodium chloride (50 mM) decreased optical density (600 nm) at pHmax. Correspondingly, pHc and pHϕ1 decreased from pH 5.4 to 4.8 and from 5.0 to 4.6, respectively, while pHϕ2 increased from pH 1.8 to 2.4. Sodium chloride suppressed biopolymer electrostatic interactions and reduced coacervate formation. Adding urea (100 mM) shifted pHϕ1, pHmax, and pHϕ2 from 4.8, 3.8, and 1.8 to 5.0, 4.0, and 2.2, respectively, while pHc was unaffected. Optical density (600 nm) at pHmax (0.536) was lower than that of control in the absence of urea (0.617). This confirmed the role of hydrogen bonding during coacervate formation in the biopolymer system composed of WPI and FG. Dynamic shear behavior and viscoelasticity of collected coacervates were measured, and both shear-thinning behavior and gel-like properties were observed. Addition of sodium chloride and urea reduced ionic strength and hydrogen bonding, resulting in decreased WPI-FG coacervate dynamic viscosity and viscoelasticity. The disturbed charge balance contributed to a loosely packed structure of coacervates which were less affected by altered hydrogen bonding. Findings obtained here will help to predict flaxseed gum behavior in protein-based foods.

[1–9-NαC]-Linusorb B3 (Cyclolinopeptide A) dimethyl sulfoxide monosolvate

[1–9-NαC]-Linusorb B3 (Cyclo­linopeptide A) was extracted from flaxseed oil crystals formed in dimethyl sulfoxide. The mol­ecule has four intra­molecular N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, and the DMSO solvate mol­ecule is bound to the Phe⁶ amino acid by a fifth N—H⋯O hydrogen bond.

Crystals of the dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solvate of [1–9-NαC]-linusorb B3 (Cyclo­linopeptide A; CLP-A; C₅₇H₈₄N₉O₉·C₂H₆OS), a cyclic polypeptide were obtained following peptide extraction and purification from flaxseed oil. There are four intramolecular N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds. In the crystal, the mol­ecules are linked in chains along the a axis by N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds. Each DMSO O atom accepts a hydrogen bond from an NH group at the Phe⁶ location in the CLP-A mol­ecule.

Flaxseed orbitides, linusorbs, inhibit LPS-induced THP-1 macrophage inflammation

Linusorbs (flaxseed orbitides) are a family of naturally-occurring cyclic peptides. Previously, we reported that their anticancer effects were associated with their structures. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory activities of 2 different linusorbs ([1–9-NαC]-linusorb B2 and [1–9-NαC]-linusorb B3) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced THP-1 macrophage activation as well as the underlying mechanism of this inflammatory response. Both molecules suppressed pro-inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, NO and COX-2) and were involved in downregulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. The suppressive effects on pro-inflammatory mediators were comparable and the concentration range of action was similar (1–4 μM). However, the concentration of compound that induced downregulation of the NF-κB pathway was different for each compound. While [1–9-NαC]-linusorb B3 could inhibit the activation of the NF-κB pathway at concentrations of 1 and 2 μM, [1–9-NαC]-linusorb B2 induced a comparable inhibitory effect at a concentration of 4 μM.

Linusorbs (flax orbitides) are a family of plant cyclic peptides. We investigate the anti-inflammatory activities of two different linusorbs ([1–9-NaC]-linusorb B2 and [1–9-NaC]-linusorb B3) and the underlying mechanism of this inflammatory response.

Correction: Affinity binding of chicken apolipoprotein A1 to a novel flax orbitide (linusorb)

Correction for ‘Affinity binding of chicken apolipoprotein A1 to a novel flax orbitide (linusorb)’ by Pramodkumar D. Jadhav, et al., RSC Adv., 2018, 8, 17702–17709.

Structural Modifications of a Flaxseed Lignan in Pursuit of Higher Liposolubility: Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Permeability Properties of the Resulting Derivatives

While lignans and their biogenetic precursors can have various health benefits, the poor liposolubilities of such phenolic systems have restricted their application as antioxidants in the food industry. The research reported here was aimed at addressing these matters through derivatizing certain forms of such compounds and then assessing their properties as potential nutraceuticals. In particular, crude flaxseed lignan was purified to afford secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG, 1) that was then subjected to structural modification. By such means, the SDG long-chain fatty acid esters 4-9 and 11-13, the fully acetylated SDG 10, secoisolariciresinol (SECO, 2), and anhydrosecoisolariciresinol (ASECO, 14) were obtained. The antioxidant activities of these derivatives were determined while their permeability properties were evaluated. Such studies revealed that certain SDG derivatives possessing useful liposolubilities also retained their antioxidative properties, as well as being capable of permeating Caco-2 cell monolayers while being nontoxic to them. SDG fatty acid esters 4-9 and 11-13 could be developed into emulsifiers with enhanced health benefits, especially considering their improved antioxidative (ca. <11 000 μmol Trolox/g) and permeability properties. This study thus highlights strategies for the structural modification of SDG so as to generate derivatives with superior properties in terms of their utility in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Novel Flaxseed Gum Nanocomposites Are Slow Release Iron Supplements

Nanocomposites, based on iron salts and soluble flaxseed gum (FG), were prepared as potential treatments of iron deficiency anemia (IDA). FG was extracted, characterized, and formulated into iron-loading nanocomposites via ion-exchange against FeCl₃, Fe₂(SO₄)₃, FeCl₂, and FeSO₄·7H₂O. FG-iron nanocomposites preparation condition was optimized, and physicochemical properties of the nanocomposites were investigated. In vitro release kinetics of iron in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) was also evaluated. FG heteropolysaccharide, consisting of rhamnose (33.73%), arabinose (24.35%), xylose (14.23%), glucose (4.54%), and galactose (23.15%) monosaccharides, linked together via varieties of glycosidic bonds, was a good recipient for both ferric and ferrous irons under screened conditions (i.e., 80 °C, 2 h, I/G = 1:2). Iron loaded contents in the nanocomposites prepared from FG-FeCl₃, FG-Fe₂(SO₄)₃, FG-FeCl₂, and FG-FeSO₄·7H₂O were 25.51%, 10.36%, 5.83%, and 22.83%, respectively. Iron in these nanocomposites was mostly in a bound state, especially in FG-FeCl₃, due to chelation forming bonds between iron and polysaccharide hydroxyl or carboxyl groups and formed stable polysaccharide-iron crystal network structures. Free iron ions were effectively removed by ethanol treatments. Because of chelation, the nanocomposites delayed iron release in SGF and the release kinetics were consistent with Korsmeyer-Peppas model. This indicates that such complexes might reduce side effects of free iron in human stomach. Altogether, this study indicates that these synthetic FG-iron nanocomposites might be developed as novel iron supplements for iron deficiency, in which FG-FeCl₃ is considered as the best option.

Composition and Properties of Aquafaba: Water Recovered from Commercially Canned Chickpeas

Chickpea and other pulses are commonly sold as canned products packed in a thick solution or a brine. This solution has recently been shown to produce stable foams and emulsions, and can act as a thickener. Recently interest in this product has been enhanced through the internet where it is proposed that this solution, now called aquafaba by a growing community, can be used a replacement for egg and milk protein. As aquafaba is both new and being developed by an internet based community little is known of its composition or properties. Aquafaba was recovered from 10 commercial canned chickpea products and correlations among aquafaba composition, density, viscosity and foaming properties were investigated. Proton NMR was used to characterize aquafaba composition before and after ultrafiltration through membranes with different molecular weight cut offs (MWCOs of 3, 10, or 50 kDa). A protocol for electrophoresis, and peptide mass fingerprinting is also presented. Those methods provided valuable information regarding components responsible for aquafaba functional properties. This information will allow the development of practices to produce standard commercial aquafaba products and may help consumers select products of superior or consistent utility.

Affinity binding of chicken apolipoprotein A1 to a novel flax orbitide (linusorb)

Bioactive orbitides (linusorbs, LOs) from flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) were ligated through methionine with resin to form an affinity column. The affinity resin was characterized using elemental analysis and the resin bound 70% of its weight in LOs. Chicken serum was passed over the column and washed to remove non-binding materials. The column was eluted with unbound orbitide to competitively release bound protein. A single 28 kDa protein was found in the affinity binding pool. The protein MW and sequence were identical to apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1), a major serum protein. Its role includes reverse cholesterol transport and cholesterol efflux. The affinity technique allowed convenient and rapid isolation of Apo A1 with a recyclable affinity column. LO binding to a cholesterol carrier molecule might also help us to understand the mechanism of action of LOs in health and the biological activity of flaxseed products.

Bioactive orbitides (linusorbs) from flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) were ligated through methionine with resin to form an affinity column that selectively binds chicken apolipoprotein A1 from chicken serum.

Production of Protein Concentrate and 1,3-Propanediol by Wheat-Based Thin Stillage Fermentation

Fermentation of wheat with yeast produces thin stillage (W-TS) and distiller's wet grains. A subsequent fermentation of W-TS (two-stage fermentation, TSF) with endemic bacteria at 25 and 37 °C decreased glycerol and lactic acid concentrations, while 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PD) and acetic acid accumulated with greater 1,3-PD and acetic acid produced at 37 °C. During TSF, W-TS colloids coagulated and floated in the fermentation medium producing separable liquid and slurry fractions. The predominant endemic bacteria in W-TS were Lactobacillus panis, L. gallinarum, and L. helveticus, and this makeup did not change substantially as fermentation progressed. As nutrients were exhausted, floating particles precipitated. Protein contents of slurry and clarified liquid increased and decreased, respectively, as TSF progressed. The liquid was easily filtered through an ultrafiltration membrane. These results suggested that TSF is a novel method for W-TS clarification and production of protein concentrates and 1,3-PD from W-TS.

Protein Concentrate Production from Thin Stillage

Two-stage fermentation (TSF) of saccharified wheat with a consortium of endemic lactobacilli produced CO₂ and induced colloid separation of fermented solution to produce a protein concentrate (PC). Protein-rich slurry (50%, db) was obtained by decanting solution or skimming floating material during or after TSF. Washing and drying processes were explored to improve protein content, extend storage life of slurry, and yield converted stillage for compound recovery. Centrifuging and washing slurry afforded a PC and clarified solution. PC protein content increased to 60% (w/w, db). The PC was dried in a spray dryer or drum dryer or tray dryer. Dried PC water activity ranged 0.23-0.30. The dried PC lysine content was low, but lysine availability (95%) was excellent. Liquid from TSF and washing was readily microfiltered. Mass recovery of protein, glycerol, 1,3-propanediol, lactic acid, acetic acid, and glycerylphosphorylcholine from combined TSF, washing, and filtration were 66, 76, 72, 77, 74, and 84%, respectively.

Secoisolariciresinol Diglucoside and Cyanogenic Glycosides in Gluten-free Bread Fortified with Flaxseed Meal

Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) meal contains cyanogenic glycosides (CGs) and the lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (1). Gluten-free (GF) doughs and baked goods were produced with added flaxseed meal (20%, w/w) then 1, and CGs were determined in fortified flour, dough, and bread with storage (0, 1, 2, and 4 weeks) at different temperatures (-18, 4, and 22-23 °C). 1 was present in flour, dough, and GF bread after baking. 1 was stable with extensive storage (up to 4 weeks) and was not affected by storage temperature. CGs in flaxseed meal and fortified GF samples were analyzed by ¹H NMR of the cyanohydrins. Linamarin and/or linustatin were the primary CGs in both flaxseed meal and fortified flour. CGs decreased with storage in dough fortified with flaxseed meal or GF bread after baking. GF bakery food products fortified with flaxseed meal had reduced CGs but remained a good source of dietary 1.

[1–9-NαC]-Linusorb B3 (cyclolinopeptide A) acetonitrile disolvate

The title compound, C57H85N9O9·2C2H3N [systematic name:cyclo-(prolyl-prolyl-phenylalanyl-phenylalanyl-leucyl-isoleucyl-isoleucylleucyl-valyl) acetonitrile disolvate; synonym: cyclolinopeptide acetonitrile disolvate], is a polypeptide with nine amino acids,viz.NαC-(Pro1–Pro2–Phe3–Phe4–Leu5–Ile6–Ile7–Leu8–Val9). It was extracted from flaxseed oil and crystallized from acetonitrile as a disolvate. In the title molecule, there are four intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds. One of the two acetonitrile molecules is hydrogen bonded to Phe3viaan N—H...N hydrogen bond, while the second acetonitrile molecule is located at the other side of the peptide ring and is linked to the title molecule by a C—H...N hydrogen bond. In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming chains along thea-axis direction. The chains are linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming undulating layers parallel to theacplane.

Conversion of Thin Stillage Compounds Using Endemic Bacteria Augmented with Lactobacillus panis PM1B

A consortium of organisms, endemic in wheat-based thin stillage (W-TS), obtained from a commercial ethanol production converts glycerol to 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PD) and lactic acid to acetic acid. We sought to improve conditions for 1,3-PD and acetic acid production to be used in future studies of industrial isolation of these compounds from two-stage fermentation. Occasionally, stillage fermentation proceeded slowly, but an inoculum of Lactobacillus panis PM1B augmented both fermentation rate and extent. Fermentation rate and product yield were enhanced by adjusting pH to 5 daily and adding glucose and glycerol (molar ratio 0.1:1), freeze-dried W-TS, and vitamins (B₂, B₃, and B₁₂). 1,3-PD and 3-hydroxypropionaldehyde (3-HPA) did not inhibit 1,3-PD production during fermentation. Moreover, agitation did not improve fermentation rate or extent. Corn sugar was a suitable substitute for glucose. Fermentation was performed at both 20 and 150 L with 1,3-PD production of 2% (w/v, 20 g/L) being routinely achieved or exceeded.

Synthesis and Characterization of Site-Selective Orbitide-BSA Conjugate to Produce Antibodies

Bioactive flax cyclic peptides (orbitides and linusorbs) were site-specifically ligated through methionine with bovine serum albumin (BSA) to produce immunogenic compounds. In this study, modified flaxseed immunosuppressant orbitides (linusorbs or LOs) containing hydroxyl (OH) groups were synthesized for use as haptens. These compounds were extensively characterized by ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), ¹³C NMR, high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The haptens were conjugated to BSA, and the extent of hapten incorporation was determined by matrix-assisted laser desorption and ionization, liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry, and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The BSA hapten complexes were used to elicit polyclonal antibody (pAbs) production in rabbits. A competitive indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (CI-ELISA) was developed that used orbitide-specific pAbs and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) conjugates. The LO assay detection limit was approximately 0.01 μg/mL (ppm), and thus, ELISA can be used for the detection of LOs in tissue and plant samples. The pAbs can be used to detect and quantify LOs in flax and flaxseed samples, to verify the presence of LOs in flaxseed containing foods, and for the detection of LOs in tissue samples, wastes, and body fluids of animals fed flaxseed.

New flaxseed orbitides: Detection, sequencing, and (15)N incorporation

Three new orbitides (cyclolinopeptides 17, 18, and 19) were identified in flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) extracts without any form of purification. Their structures were elucidated by a combination of (15) N-labeling experiments and extensive tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) with electrospray ionization (ESI). Putative linear peptide sequences of the new orbitides were used as the query in the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) searches of flax genome database. These searches returned linear sequences for the putative precursors of cyclolinopeptides 17 and 19 among others. Cyclolinopeptide 18 contains MetO (O) and is not directly encoded, but is a product of post-translation modification of the Met present in 17. The identification of precursor proteins in flax mRNA transcripts and DNA sequences confirmed the occurrence and amino acid sequences of these orbitides as [1-9-NαC]-MLKPFFFWI, [1-9-NαC]-OLKPFFFWI, and [1-9-NαC]-GIPPFWLTL for cyclolinopeptides 17, 18, and 19, respectively.

Evaluating the cytotoxicity of flaxseed orbitides for potential cancer treatment

Flaxseed as well as its oil component possess antitumor activities against different types of cancer and have been used by some patients as complementary and/or alternative medicine. Linoorbitides (LOBs) are one family of flaxseed compounds that has implications for anticancer and antioxidant activity. The cytotoxicity of [1-9-NαC]-linusorb-B3 (LOB3), [1-9-NαC]-linusorb-B2 (LOB2), [1-9-NαC],[1-R_s,S_s-MetO]-linusorb-B2 ([MetO]-LOB2) and [1-8-NαC],[1-R_s,S_s-MetO]-linusorb-B1 ([MetO]-LOB1) was measured against human breast cancer Sk-Br-3 and MCF7 cell lines and melanoma A375 cell line. Overall cytotoxicity is cell-type specific. It scales as the hydrophobicity and concentration of the LOBs with the most abundant LOB3 being the most cytotoxic. Oral administration of LOB3 as a potential therapeutic agent might not be applicable as a much too high and/or frequent dose would be required to achieve a serum concentration of 400-500 μg/mL due to bioavailability and pharmacokinetic factors. However, LOB3 may be suitable for topical treatment formulations or as a lead compound in developing anticancer LOB derivatives.