Epidemiological studies have reported an association between obesity/metabolic syndrome (MetS) and male reproductive disorders. Endocrine dysfunctions, direct testicular damage, chronic low-grade inflammation, and insulin resistance (IR) are involved in the occurrence of male obesity secondary hypogonadism (MOSH) which in turn alters the metabolic imbalance, creating a sort of vicious circle. Since IR and chronic inflammation state play a pivotal role in MOSH, low-calorie and low-carbohydrate diet protocols may be administered in obese men to improve their metabolic and hormonal profile. The ketogenic diet (KD) has been reported to determine positive effects on body weight, IR, cardio-metabolic risk, hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, and prostate with possible improvement of plasma androgens levels, sexual function (SF), and male fertility. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of KD on testicular function. Emerging evidence reports that very low-calorie KD (VLCKD) may revert MOSH by restoring HPT axis function and testosterone (T) levels. Moreover, VLCKD could improve SF, prostate health and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) in overweight/obese male patients. VLCKD may also positively impact spermatogenesis although evidence is still poor. Future studies are warranted to clarify the effectiveness of KD on testicular and prostate gland function.
Epidemiological studies have reported an association between obesity/metabolic syndrome (MetS) and male reproductive disorders. Endocrine dysfunctions, direct testicular damage, chronic low-grade inflammation, and insulin resistance (IR) are involved in the occurrence of male obesity secondary hypogonadism (MOSH) which in turn alters the metabolic imbalance, creating a sort of vicious circle. Since IR and chronic inflammation state play a pivotal role in MOSH, low-calorie and low-carbohydrate diet protocols may be administered in obese men to improve their metabolic and hormonal profile. The ketogenic diet (KD) has been reported to determine positive effects on body weight, IR, cardio-metabolic risk, hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, and prostate with possible improvement of plasma androgens levels, sexual function (SF), and male fertility. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of KD on testicular function. Emerging evidence reports that very low-calorie KD (VLCKD) may revert MOSH by restoring HPT axis function and testosterone (T) levels. Moreover, VLCKD could improve SF, prostate health and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) in overweight/obese male patients. VLCKD may also positively impact spermatogenesis although evidence is still poor. Future studies are warranted to clarify the effectiveness of KD on testicular and prostate gland function.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00014
This article belongs to the special issue Ketogenic Diet as Medical Nutrition Therapy
The Mediterranean dietary pattern, where extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) takes the central spot, is related to longer life expectancy and lower risk of a number of non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular, diabetes, dementias, and cancer. Positive effect of olive oil on a broad spectrum of diseases, including diabetes mellitus type 2 (DMT2), is usually attributed to its fatty acid content (e.g., oleic acid). Yet, in the last two decades researchers confirmed that, the phenolic compounds (e.g., oleuropein) also significantly alter on glycaemic regulation. Other unprocessed parts of olive plant (fruit and leaves) showed positive impact on glycaemic variability among individuals living with DMT2. The present review focuses on the available research findings on the effect of olive oil, fruits, and leaves on DMT2 treatment. Specifically, the focus is on polyphenols and fats of olive oil, fruits, and leaves with regard to their antidiabetic biological activities.
The Mediterranean dietary pattern, where extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) takes the central spot, is related to longer life expectancy and lower risk of a number of non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular, diabetes, dementias, and cancer. Positive effect of olive oil on a broad spectrum of diseases, including diabetes mellitus type 2 (DMT2), is usually attributed to its fatty acid content (e.g., oleic acid). Yet, in the last two decades researchers confirmed that, the phenolic compounds (e.g., oleuropein) also significantly alter on glycaemic regulation. Other unprocessed parts of olive plant (fruit and leaves) showed positive impact on glycaemic variability among individuals living with DMT2. The present review focuses on the available research findings on the effect of olive oil, fruits, and leaves on DMT2 treatment. Specifically, the focus is on polyphenols and fats of olive oil, fruits, and leaves with regard to their antidiabetic biological activities.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00015
This article belongs to the special issue Natural Products in Health and Disease
Aim:
Soy whey is a byproduct of tofu production and is being discarded after tofu preparation. However, soy whey is a rich source of phytochemicals, minerals, and protein. The present study was conducted to utilize soy whey for the development of nutraceutical-rich orange juice beverages.
Methods:
The soy whey and orange juice were produced and beverage samples were developed from them. The samples were evaluated for physicochemical, rheological, antioxidant, and sensory properties to evaluate the optimum percentage of soy whey that can be utilized for beverage development.
Results:
The protein content increased from 0.45% to 1.65% with an increase in soy whey from 0% to 50%. The pH of the beverage samples was in the range of 4.27–4.77 with the total soluble solids (TSSs) of 5.75–6.0 for various beverage samples. The lightness (L*), redness (+a*), and yellowness (+b*) of beverage samples range between 31.57–49.04, 1.21–0.54, and 25.37–39.63 respectively. The vitamin C content of the beverage samples was 56.30 mg/L, 52.75 mg/L, 36.97 mg/L, 26.35 mg/L, and 22.87 mg/L for A, B, C, D, and E beverages respectively. The 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), reducing power ranges of beverage samples range between 91.2–96.23%, 0.521–0.994%, and 0.204–0.859% respectively, and total phenolic content (TPC) ranges between 112 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/100 mL and 181 mg GAE/100 mL of beverage samples. The beverage samples presented a shear thinning property with a flow index (n) ranging between 0.2371–0.8214. The consistency coefficient of the beverage samples ranges between 0.0405 Pa∙Sn and 0.0041 Pa∙Sn. The control, 20%, and 30% soy whey-containing beverage samples showed higher sensory properties.
Conclusions:
The beverage samples with 0%, 20%, and 30% showed improved DPPH and FRAP percent activity and higher overall acceptability compared to 40% and 50% soy whey-containing beverage samples.
Aim:
Soy whey is a byproduct of tofu production and is being discarded after tofu preparation. However, soy whey is a rich source of phytochemicals, minerals, and protein. The present study was conducted to utilize soy whey for the development of nutraceutical-rich orange juice beverages.
Methods:
The soy whey and orange juice were produced and beverage samples were developed from them. The samples were evaluated for physicochemical, rheological, antioxidant, and sensory properties to evaluate the optimum percentage of soy whey that can be utilized for beverage development.
Results:
The protein content increased from 0.45% to 1.65% with an increase in soy whey from 0% to 50%. The pH of the beverage samples was in the range of 4.27–4.77 with the total soluble solids (TSSs) of 5.75–6.0 for various beverage samples. The lightness (L*), redness (+a*), and yellowness (+b*) of beverage samples range between 31.57–49.04, 1.21–0.54, and 25.37–39.63 respectively. The vitamin C content of the beverage samples was 56.30 mg/L, 52.75 mg/L, 36.97 mg/L, 26.35 mg/L, and 22.87 mg/L for A, B, C, D, and E beverages respectively. The 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), reducing power ranges of beverage samples range between 91.2–96.23%, 0.521–0.994%, and 0.204–0.859% respectively, and total phenolic content (TPC) ranges between 112 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/100 mL and 181 mg GAE/100 mL of beverage samples. The beverage samples presented a shear thinning property with a flow index (n) ranging between 0.2371–0.8214. The consistency coefficient of the beverage samples ranges between 0.0405 Pa∙Sn and 0.0041 Pa∙Sn. The control, 20%, and 30% soy whey-containing beverage samples showed higher sensory properties.
Conclusions:
The beverage samples with 0%, 20%, and 30% showed improved DPPH and FRAP percent activity and higher overall acceptability compared to 40% and 50% soy whey-containing beverage samples.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00016
Aim:
The extraction of polyphenols is commonly accomplished using conventional techniques such as solid-liquid and liquid-liquid extraction, which are associated with the use of high quantities of organic solvents, long extraction times, and low selectivity and reproducibility. These limitations have led to the development of innovative extraction technologies. The purpose of this study was to investigate the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) of polyphenols from partially defatted chia flour (PDCF).
Methods:
The effect of four factors on the extraction of polyphenols (percentage in relation to the initial weight of PDCF) and on the antioxidant activity [quantified by 2,2’-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods] was investigated and the UAE and MAE processes were optimized using the response surface methodology (RSM).
Results:
It was found that MAE improved the extraction yield (polyphenol content and antioxidant activity) in shorter extraction times when compared to UAE.
Conclusions:
The application of these alternative green technologies improved the performance of the polyphenol extraction process from PDCF. Overall, both techniques could be used as efficient green alternatives.
Aim:
The extraction of polyphenols is commonly accomplished using conventional techniques such as solid-liquid and liquid-liquid extraction, which are associated with the use of high quantities of organic solvents, long extraction times, and low selectivity and reproducibility. These limitations have led to the development of innovative extraction technologies. The purpose of this study was to investigate the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) of polyphenols from partially defatted chia flour (PDCF).
Methods:
The effect of four factors on the extraction of polyphenols (percentage in relation to the initial weight of PDCF) and on the antioxidant activity [quantified by 2,2’-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods] was investigated and the UAE and MAE processes were optimized using the response surface methodology (RSM).
Results:
It was found that MAE improved the extraction yield (polyphenol content and antioxidant activity) in shorter extraction times when compared to UAE.
Conclusions:
The application of these alternative green technologies improved the performance of the polyphenol extraction process from PDCF. Overall, both techniques could be used as efficient green alternatives.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00017
This article belongs to the special issue The food (r)evolution towards food quality/security and human nutrition
Aim:
Food production demand has been promoting an increase in the generation of agro-industrial waste. Food industry waste can contain compounds with added value that, if properly extracted and used, can be applied to the development of healthy foods (clean label), nutraceuticals, senior food, cosmetics, etc. The revaluation of by-products from the broccoli industry will make it possible to reduce the large volume of broccoli waste, reducing the cost of waste management and obtaining compounds of interest from them. The aim of this work is the extraction of compounds of interest by means of environmentally sustainable technologies and to characterize the freeze-dried broccoli extracts obtained in each green technology in terms of their characteristic compounds of interest and the study of antimicrobial and antioxidant capacity.
Methods:
The methods of extraction of compounds of interest from broccoli used in this research are environmentally sustainable technologies, using water as the extraction solvent, including aqueous extraction (AE), enzymatic extraction (EE), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). After extraction, the freeze-dried broccoli extracts obtained were characterized and the antimicrobial capacity was studied with Listeria and Salmonella strains and the antioxidant capacity was studied with Saccharomyces strains, thus determining which of the techniques is most effective for obtaining a freeze-dried broccoli extract with a high concentration of bioactive compounds.
Results:
As a result of the research, different products have been obtained from broccoli waste by means of three green extraction techniques, obtaining products with a high concentration of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity against strains such as Listeria and Salmonella.
Conclusions:
The waste generated in the broccoli industry has been revalued to obtain high added value products using environmentally sustainable techniques. Due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, these products are effective as functional products due to their antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity.
Aim:
Food production demand has been promoting an increase in the generation of agro-industrial waste. Food industry waste can contain compounds with added value that, if properly extracted and used, can be applied to the development of healthy foods (clean label), nutraceuticals, senior food, cosmetics, etc. The revaluation of by-products from the broccoli industry will make it possible to reduce the large volume of broccoli waste, reducing the cost of waste management and obtaining compounds of interest from them. The aim of this work is the extraction of compounds of interest by means of environmentally sustainable technologies and to characterize the freeze-dried broccoli extracts obtained in each green technology in terms of their characteristic compounds of interest and the study of antimicrobial and antioxidant capacity.
Methods:
The methods of extraction of compounds of interest from broccoli used in this research are environmentally sustainable technologies, using water as the extraction solvent, including aqueous extraction (AE), enzymatic extraction (EE), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). After extraction, the freeze-dried broccoli extracts obtained were characterized and the antimicrobial capacity was studied with Listeria and Salmonella strains and the antioxidant capacity was studied with Saccharomyces strains, thus determining which of the techniques is most effective for obtaining a freeze-dried broccoli extract with a high concentration of bioactive compounds.
Results:
As a result of the research, different products have been obtained from broccoli waste by means of three green extraction techniques, obtaining products with a high concentration of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity against strains such as Listeria and Salmonella.
Conclusions:
The waste generated in the broccoli industry has been revalued to obtain high added value products using environmentally sustainable techniques. Due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, these products are effective as functional products due to their antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00018
This article belongs to the special issue Natural Products in Health and Disease
Aim:
The aim of this study is to comprehensively investigate the distribution of amine and phenol compounds in different flavors of Baijiu.
Methods:
12C-/13C-dansyl chloride labeling was applied for untargeted and quantitative analyses of amine and phenol compounds in Baijiu.
Results:
A total of 267 amine/phenol compounds were detected, and 30 of them were confirmed by the standards. 4 of 30 confirmed compounds were newly identified in Baijiu, and 16 ones were related with flavor or biological activity. After statistical analysis, 34 amine/phenol compounds were defined as potential markers for indicating sauce flavor, strong flavor, and light flavor Baijiu. 30 compounds in Baijiu were quantified with high precision, high accuracy, and high sensitivity. Results of the untargeted and quantitative analyses indicated that the number and contents of amine and phenol compounds were generally richest in sauce flavor Baijiu, while lowest in light flavor Baijiu.
Conclusions:
The results obtained in the research are beneficial for comprehensively understanding the amine and phenol compounds in Baijiu and further provide the basis for the flavor blending of Baijiu.
Aim:
The aim of this study is to comprehensively investigate the distribution of amine and phenol compounds in different flavors of Baijiu.
Methods:
12C-/13C-dansyl chloride labeling was applied for untargeted and quantitative analyses of amine and phenol compounds in Baijiu.
Results:
A total of 267 amine/phenol compounds were detected, and 30 of them were confirmed by the standards. 4 of 30 confirmed compounds were newly identified in Baijiu, and 16 ones were related with flavor or biological activity. After statistical analysis, 34 amine/phenol compounds were defined as potential markers for indicating sauce flavor, strong flavor, and light flavor Baijiu. 30 compounds in Baijiu were quantified with high precision, high accuracy, and high sensitivity. Results of the untargeted and quantitative analyses indicated that the number and contents of amine and phenol compounds were generally richest in sauce flavor Baijiu, while lowest in light flavor Baijiu.
Conclusions:
The results obtained in the research are beneficial for comprehensively understanding the amine and phenol compounds in Baijiu and further provide the basis for the flavor blending of Baijiu.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00007
Aim:
This study aims to develop sensitive and reliable analytical technologies to enable the distinction between wild-caught and farmed fish through appropriate molecular markers to protect consumers from fraudulent fish labelling. Gilthead sea bream, Sparus aurata L. (S. aurata L.), is a very common fish used as foodstuff worldwide and globally produced in aquaculture in the Mediterranean basin. Wild-caught and farmed species are very different in feed and lifestyle and the quality and safety of these products strongly depend on fish growth, processing history, and storage conditions.
Methods:
Hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) coupled with electrospray ionization (ESI) and Fourier-transform mass spectrometry (FTMS; HILIC-ESI-FTMS) was employed to discriminate the phospholipidome profiles of fillets extracts of wild-caught from farmed gilthead sea breams.
Results:
The untargeted approach led to the annotation of a total of 216 phospholipids (PLs), namely 65 phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs), 27 lyso-PEs (LPEs), 61 phosphatidylcholines (PCs), 34 lyso-PCs (LPCs), and 29 sphingomyelins (SMs). Untargeted lipidomics data were investigated by principal component analysis (PCA) and K-means clustering. Lyso-PLs (LPLs) of PEs and PCs including ether-linked side chains were found as discriminating markers between the two types of fish samples. The PLs that were most responsible for distinguishing between the lipid extracts of farmed and wild S. aurata fillets were successfully characterized by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The analysis revealed that wild fillet lipid extracts contained some PE exhibiting ether bonds (PE P-), viz. 16:0, 18:0, 18:1, and 18:2 and polyunsaturated fatty acyl chains (i.e., 22:6 and 22:5). In farmed species, the estimated abundance ratios of fatty acyl chains 20:4/18:2 and 22:6/20:5 were 0.9 and 0.05, respectively. However, in wild-caught fish, these ratios were found to be two-fold higher and four-fold higher, respectively.
Conclusions:
This work demonstrates that the combination of HILIC-ESI-FTMS and chemometrics can serve as a valuable tool for evaluating fish authenticity and assessing quality concerns by monitoring specific lipid ratios.
Aim:
This study aims to develop sensitive and reliable analytical technologies to enable the distinction between wild-caught and farmed fish through appropriate molecular markers to protect consumers from fraudulent fish labelling. Gilthead sea bream, Sparus aurata L. (S. aurata L.), is a very common fish used as foodstuff worldwide and globally produced in aquaculture in the Mediterranean basin. Wild-caught and farmed species are very different in feed and lifestyle and the quality and safety of these products strongly depend on fish growth, processing history, and storage conditions.
Methods:
Hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) coupled with electrospray ionization (ESI) and Fourier-transform mass spectrometry (FTMS; HILIC-ESI-FTMS) was employed to discriminate the phospholipidome profiles of fillets extracts of wild-caught from farmed gilthead sea breams.
Results:
The untargeted approach led to the annotation of a total of 216 phospholipids (PLs), namely 65 phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs), 27 lyso-PEs (LPEs), 61 phosphatidylcholines (PCs), 34 lyso-PCs (LPCs), and 29 sphingomyelins (SMs). Untargeted lipidomics data were investigated by principal component analysis (PCA) and K-means clustering. Lyso-PLs (LPLs) of PEs and PCs including ether-linked side chains were found as discriminating markers between the two types of fish samples. The PLs that were most responsible for distinguishing between the lipid extracts of farmed and wild S. aurata fillets were successfully characterized by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The analysis revealed that wild fillet lipid extracts contained some PE exhibiting ether bonds (PE P-), viz. 16:0, 18:0, 18:1, and 18:2 and polyunsaturated fatty acyl chains (i.e., 22:6 and 22:5). In farmed species, the estimated abundance ratios of fatty acyl chains 20:4/18:2 and 22:6/20:5 were 0.9 and 0.05, respectively. However, in wild-caught fish, these ratios were found to be two-fold higher and four-fold higher, respectively.
Conclusions:
This work demonstrates that the combination of HILIC-ESI-FTMS and chemometrics can serve as a valuable tool for evaluating fish authenticity and assessing quality concerns by monitoring specific lipid ratios.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00008
Aim:
The aim of this study is to apply untargeted proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and chemometric analysis to obtain the cacao pod husk (CPH) fingerprint and evaluate the effect of dehydration in the CPH metabolome.
Methods:
Phosphate buffer extracts (pH 6.5) were obtained and measured using a one-dimension (1D) 1H NMR spectrometry. The 1D 1H NMR spectra were recorded without spinning and using the presaturation (PRESAT) pulse sequence to suppress the residual H2O signal. The 3-(trimethylsilyl) propionic-2,2,3,3-d4 acid sodium salt (TSP) was used as an internal reference. Analysis of processed data, applying an orthogonal projection on latent structure-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) model was used to highlight significant differences between the three dehydration treatments. Signal assignment of CPH metabolites was carried out based on the coupling constant, software simulation prediction, published data comparison, and metabolomics databases.
Results:
A total of 25 compounds were detected by 1H NMR, methylxanthines, sugars, some amino acids, fatty acids, and organic acids were found among the identified compounds. The fingerprint spectra of the three dehydration methods were clustered separately discriminating the metabolome profile of each of the dehydration treatments, finding that metabolome remarkably differed in theanine, myristic acid, fumaric acid, and aspartic acid composition.
Conclusions:
An untargeted metabolomics to obtain the fingerprint of CPH was successfully established. A 1H NMR spectra with a detailed signal assignment aided to identify 25 metabolites present in CPH fresh and dried by different methods. The results complement the information about CPH composition and how it is affected by the temperature used during the dehydration process. The multivariate analysis points out that freeze drying (FD) preserves the metabolites better than microwave drying (MWD) or hot air drying (HAD). FD and MWD are similar in composition maintaining most of the compounds after drying.
Aim:
The aim of this study is to apply untargeted proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and chemometric analysis to obtain the cacao pod husk (CPH) fingerprint and evaluate the effect of dehydration in the CPH metabolome.
Methods:
Phosphate buffer extracts (pH 6.5) were obtained and measured using a one-dimension (1D) 1H NMR spectrometry. The 1D 1H NMR spectra were recorded without spinning and using the presaturation (PRESAT) pulse sequence to suppress the residual H2O signal. The 3-(trimethylsilyl) propionic-2,2,3,3-d4 acid sodium salt (TSP) was used as an internal reference. Analysis of processed data, applying an orthogonal projection on latent structure-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) model was used to highlight significant differences between the three dehydration treatments. Signal assignment of CPH metabolites was carried out based on the coupling constant, software simulation prediction, published data comparison, and metabolomics databases.
Results:
A total of 25 compounds were detected by 1H NMR, methylxanthines, sugars, some amino acids, fatty acids, and organic acids were found among the identified compounds. The fingerprint spectra of the three dehydration methods were clustered separately discriminating the metabolome profile of each of the dehydration treatments, finding that metabolome remarkably differed in theanine, myristic acid, fumaric acid, and aspartic acid composition.
Conclusions:
An untargeted metabolomics to obtain the fingerprint of CPH was successfully established. A 1H NMR spectra with a detailed signal assignment aided to identify 25 metabolites present in CPH fresh and dried by different methods. The results complement the information about CPH composition and how it is affected by the temperature used during the dehydration process. The multivariate analysis points out that freeze drying (FD) preserves the metabolites better than microwave drying (MWD) or hot air drying (HAD). FD and MWD are similar in composition maintaining most of the compounds after drying.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00009
Aim:
This study aimed to isolate, characterize, and encapsulate a lupeol-rich fraction obtained from the hexanic extract of Coccoloba uvifera L. leaves to evaluate its potential use in nutraceutical or pharmaceutical applications.
Methods:
The C. uvifera leaf extract was fractionated by column chromatography and the presence of lupeol was assessed by thin layer chromatography, attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Additionally, the lupeol-rich fraction was characterized according to its antioxidant capacity and cytotoxicity. Finally, this fraction was encapsulated into electrospun nanofibers made of high degree of polymerization agave fructans (HDPAF) combined with polyethylene oxide (PEO). The obtained nanofibers were characterized in terms of morphology, chemical composition, and in vitro permeability using the Caco-2 cell line.
Results:
Fraction 6 showed a 77% of lupeol, quantified by chromatography, and presented a 7.3% inhibition of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). 100 µg/mL of fraction 6 showed a decrease in Caco-2 cell viability. Finally, fraction 6 was encapsulated into electrospun nanofibers, which showed an increase in the apparent permeability of the lupeol present in fraction 6 in Caco-2 cells in comparison to neat fraction 6.
Conclusions:
It was possible to isolate and encapsulate a lupeol-rich fraction from C. uvifera into electrospun nanofibers, which allows the increasing the apparent permeability of lupeol, and consequently, they could be used for nutraceutical or pharmaceutical applications.
Aim:
This study aimed to isolate, characterize, and encapsulate a lupeol-rich fraction obtained from the hexanic extract of Coccoloba uvifera L. leaves to evaluate its potential use in nutraceutical or pharmaceutical applications.
Methods:
The C. uvifera leaf extract was fractionated by column chromatography and the presence of lupeol was assessed by thin layer chromatography, attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Additionally, the lupeol-rich fraction was characterized according to its antioxidant capacity and cytotoxicity. Finally, this fraction was encapsulated into electrospun nanofibers made of high degree of polymerization agave fructans (HDPAF) combined with polyethylene oxide (PEO). The obtained nanofibers were characterized in terms of morphology, chemical composition, and in vitro permeability using the Caco-2 cell line.
Results:
Fraction 6 showed a 77% of lupeol, quantified by chromatography, and presented a 7.3% inhibition of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). 100 µg/mL of fraction 6 showed a decrease in Caco-2 cell viability. Finally, fraction 6 was encapsulated into electrospun nanofibers, which showed an increase in the apparent permeability of the lupeol present in fraction 6 in Caco-2 cells in comparison to neat fraction 6.
Conclusions:
It was possible to isolate and encapsulate a lupeol-rich fraction from C. uvifera into electrospun nanofibers, which allows the increasing the apparent permeability of lupeol, and consequently, they could be used for nutraceutical or pharmaceutical applications.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00010
This article belongs to the special issue Natural Products in Health and Disease
Aim:
As far as is known, the pharmaceutical effects of neem on human B-lymphoblastoid (TK6) cells have not been studied until now. Hence, the present study aimed to obtain neem phenolic extracts for inhibits the proliferation of TK6 cells and explore some possible underlying mechanisms involved in these effects.
Methods:
Hexane extract (HE) was obtained in the first step. After that, the residual hexane was removed from the neem. The dried neem sample was used in a new extraction for obtaining the ethyl acetate extract (EAE). Total phenolic compounds (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) were determined by spectrophotometric methods. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) tests were used to evaluate the cytotoxicity in TK6 cells. The stop at G0/G1 cell cycle and inducing apoptosis in the TK6 cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. For deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage evaluation, the alkaline comet test was used.
Results:
The higher TFC (65.50 mg/g of extract ± 1.17 mg/g of extract) and TPC (52.08 mg of extract ± 0.88 mg of extract) were obtained in EAE compared to HE that was obtained TFC of 14.61 mg/g of extract ± 0.60 mg/g of extract and TPC of 3.20 mg/g of extract ± 1.20 mg/g of extract. EAE was more significantly cytotoxic to TK6 cells than HE. The apoptosis induction was higher after exposure to 15.0 µg/mL of EAE (11.29%) in comparison to 15.0 µg/mL of HE (2.52%). The G0/G1 phase increased from 72% negative control (NC) to 83% after treatment with neem extracts (15 µg/mL). Neem extracts were also able to cause DNA strand breaks in TK6 cells.
Conclusions:
The extraction residue from neem leaf after hexane extraction is a source important of cytotoxic and genotoxic molecules against TK6 cells, the results also can suggest that the toxic effects in TK6 cells can be provided most likely due to the presence of high content of TPC from neem extracts.
Aim:
As far as is known, the pharmaceutical effects of neem on human B-lymphoblastoid (TK6) cells have not been studied until now. Hence, the present study aimed to obtain neem phenolic extracts for inhibits the proliferation of TK6 cells and explore some possible underlying mechanisms involved in these effects.
Methods:
Hexane extract (HE) was obtained in the first step. After that, the residual hexane was removed from the neem. The dried neem sample was used in a new extraction for obtaining the ethyl acetate extract (EAE). Total phenolic compounds (TPC) and total flavonoid contents (TFC) were determined by spectrophotometric methods. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) tests were used to evaluate the cytotoxicity in TK6 cells. The stop at G0/G1 cell cycle and inducing apoptosis in the TK6 cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. For deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage evaluation, the alkaline comet test was used.
Results:
The higher TFC (65.50 mg/g of extract ± 1.17 mg/g of extract) and TPC (52.08 mg of extract ± 0.88 mg of extract) were obtained in EAE compared to HE that was obtained TFC of 14.61 mg/g of extract ± 0.60 mg/g of extract and TPC of 3.20 mg/g of extract ± 1.20 mg/g of extract. EAE was more significantly cytotoxic to TK6 cells than HE. The apoptosis induction was higher after exposure to 15.0 µg/mL of EAE (11.29%) in comparison to 15.0 µg/mL of HE (2.52%). The G0/G1 phase increased from 72% negative control (NC) to 83% after treatment with neem extracts (15 µg/mL). Neem extracts were also able to cause DNA strand breaks in TK6 cells.
Conclusions:
The extraction residue from neem leaf after hexane extraction is a source important of cytotoxic and genotoxic molecules against TK6 cells, the results also can suggest that the toxic effects in TK6 cells can be provided most likely due to the presence of high content of TPC from neem extracts.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00011
The on-site, rapid, and intelligence detection methods are the wave in food safety. Recently, intelligent point-of-care test (iPOCT) methods serve as a promising alternative for advanced monitoring in food safety. By integrating smartphones with various detection methods, iPOCT methods demonstrate unique merits. Compared with lab-dependent instruments, iPOCT strategies have a short turnaround time (several minutes), high accuracy (μm level or less), and portability (smartphones). This work discussed principles of optical and electrical iPOCT methods, including absorbing light, fluorescence, chemiluminescence, potentiometry, voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, and amperometry. The review emphasizes the practical applications for testing chemical and biological hazards in complex food matrices. The commercialization, challenges, and future trends of iPOCT are discussed as well.
The on-site, rapid, and intelligence detection methods are the wave in food safety. Recently, intelligent point-of-care test (iPOCT) methods serve as a promising alternative for advanced monitoring in food safety. By integrating smartphones with various detection methods, iPOCT methods demonstrate unique merits. Compared with lab-dependent instruments, iPOCT strategies have a short turnaround time (several minutes), high accuracy (μm level or less), and portability (smartphones). This work discussed principles of optical and electrical iPOCT methods, including absorbing light, fluorescence, chemiluminescence, potentiometry, voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, and amperometry. The review emphasizes the practical applications for testing chemical and biological hazards in complex food matrices. The commercialization, challenges, and future trends of iPOCT are discussed as well.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00012
Aim:
In this study, Polyphenol and chemical profiles in core, pulp, and peel of 7 apple varieties [Fuji (FS), Qinguan (QG), Qingping (QP), Jinshuai (JS), Gala (GL), Changmiou (CMO), and Huahong (HH)] were comparatively studied to distinguish the different metabolism biomarkers in the three parts of apple fruit.
Methods:
This study investigated the distribution of 15 polyphenolic compounds using a combination of multivariate analysis and ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS).
Results:
chlorogenic acid, catechin, epicatechin, phloretin were the most abundant components. While phloretin was the dominant component in core, chlorogenic acid was the main phenolic compound in pulp, and quercetin was mainly found in apple peel. The multivariate analysis showed that the chemical profile of peel was significantly distinct from that of apple pulp and core, whereas apple pulp and core overlapped with each other. The difference attributed to the compounds that were predicted from ultra-high performance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS), which were remarkably different (P < 0.05) and belong to polyphenol.
Conclusions:
It indicates that the potential superior biomarker of polyphenols is to differentiate the products from apple core, pulp, and peel respectively. This research provided an insight on the polyphenolic profile of core, pulp, and peel of apple fruits.
Aim:
In this study, Polyphenol and chemical profiles in core, pulp, and peel of 7 apple varieties [Fuji (FS), Qinguan (QG), Qingping (QP), Jinshuai (JS), Gala (GL), Changmiou (CMO), and Huahong (HH)] were comparatively studied to distinguish the different metabolism biomarkers in the three parts of apple fruit.
Methods:
This study investigated the distribution of 15 polyphenolic compounds using a combination of multivariate analysis and ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS).
Results:
chlorogenic acid, catechin, epicatechin, phloretin were the most abundant components. While phloretin was the dominant component in core, chlorogenic acid was the main phenolic compound in pulp, and quercetin was mainly found in apple peel. The multivariate analysis showed that the chemical profile of peel was significantly distinct from that of apple pulp and core, whereas apple pulp and core overlapped with each other. The difference attributed to the compounds that were predicted from ultra-high performance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS), which were remarkably different (P < 0.05) and belong to polyphenol.
Conclusions:
It indicates that the potential superior biomarker of polyphenols is to differentiate the products from apple core, pulp, and peel respectively. This research provided an insight on the polyphenolic profile of core, pulp, and peel of apple fruits.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00013
Aim:
The scope of the present study was to investigate the phytochemical profile of Psidium guajava and Carica papaya leaves aqueous extracts, from plants cultivated on Crete island in Greece.
Methods:
Total phenolic content (TPC) in the aqueous extracts was determined spectrometrically using the Folin-Ciocalteu (F-C) assay. The identification and quantification of different phenolic compounds in the aqueous extracts were conducted using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis. Different metals were also determined (K, Fe, Zn, Ca, Mg, Pb, and Cd) to investigate the potential health claims or hazards in the water extractable infusion using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method.
Results:
TPC in the aqueous extracts was found to be 28.0 g gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/kg dry leaves for Psidium guajava leaves aqueous extract and 15.0 g GAE/kg dry leaves for Carica papaya leaves aqueous extract. The dominant phenolic compounds in Psidium guajava leaves aqueous extract were myricetin (3,852 mg/kg dry sample) and rutin (670 mg/kg dry sample) while the dominant phenolic compounds in Carica papaya leaves aqueous extract were salicylic acid (338 mg/kg dry sample) and rutin (264 mg/kg dry sample). Different metals were also determined (K, Fe, Zn, Ca, Mg, Pb, and Cd) to investigate the potential health claims or hazards in the water extractable infusion, and it was found that no toxic metals were extracted whereas some nutritional benefits were achieved.
Conclusions:
Results proved that Psidium guajava and Carica papaya can be provided a strong antioxidant activity and can be used as medicinal plants.
Aim:
The scope of the present study was to investigate the phytochemical profile of Psidium guajava and Carica papaya leaves aqueous extracts, from plants cultivated on Crete island in Greece.
Methods:
Total phenolic content (TPC) in the aqueous extracts was determined spectrometrically using the Folin-Ciocalteu (F-C) assay. The identification and quantification of different phenolic compounds in the aqueous extracts were conducted using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis. Different metals were also determined (K, Fe, Zn, Ca, Mg, Pb, and Cd) to investigate the potential health claims or hazards in the water extractable infusion using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method.
Results:
TPC in the aqueous extracts was found to be 28.0 g gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/kg dry leaves for Psidium guajava leaves aqueous extract and 15.0 g GAE/kg dry leaves for Carica papaya leaves aqueous extract. The dominant phenolic compounds in Psidium guajava leaves aqueous extract were myricetin (3,852 mg/kg dry sample) and rutin (670 mg/kg dry sample) while the dominant phenolic compounds in Carica papaya leaves aqueous extract were salicylic acid (338 mg/kg dry sample) and rutin (264 mg/kg dry sample). Different metals were also determined (K, Fe, Zn, Ca, Mg, Pb, and Cd) to investigate the potential health claims or hazards in the water extractable infusion, and it was found that no toxic metals were extracted whereas some nutritional benefits were achieved.
Conclusions:
Results proved that Psidium guajava and Carica papaya can be provided a strong antioxidant activity and can be used as medicinal plants.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00002
Among the species of the rich algological flora of the North Atlantic, some can be used for direct consumption in human food, although few are currently cultivated on a large scale and/or marketed for this purpose. The European tradition regarding this custom is practically nil and the expression of current eating habits is little different from the past. In Europe, only in times of hunger (for example, during the Great World Wars) was seaweed consumed by the populations closest to the coastline. In addition to the multiple applications described, which expanded enormously in the 1970s, based on phycocolloids (agar, carrageenans, and alginates)—used as thickeners in the food industry, in soups, meat preserves, dairy products, and pastries—there is currently a trend of increasing consumption, both in North America and Europe.
Among the species of the rich algological flora of the North Atlantic, some can be used for direct consumption in human food, although few are currently cultivated on a large scale and/or marketed for this purpose. The European tradition regarding this custom is practically nil and the expression of current eating habits is little different from the past. In Europe, only in times of hunger (for example, during the Great World Wars) was seaweed consumed by the populations closest to the coastline. In addition to the multiple applications described, which expanded enormously in the 1970s, based on phycocolloids (agar, carrageenans, and alginates)—used as thickeners in the food industry, in soups, meat preserves, dairy products, and pastries—there is currently a trend of increasing consumption, both in North America and Europe.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00003
This article belongs to the special issue The food (r)evolution towards food quality/security and human nutrition
Aim:
In this work, the development for the first time of a green and efficient method to obtain bioactive extracts from Mentha x rotundifolia leaves has been investigated.
Methods:
The efficiency of three techniques [microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), subcritical water extraction (SWE), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE)] was compared in terms of total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity [1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthioazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays].
Results:
Under similar operating conditions, SWE outperformed MAE and UAE for providing M. rotundifolia extracts with improved antioxidant activity. Further in-depth optimization of the SWE method by means of a Box-Behnken experimental design showed 120°C, 5 min, 0.08 g dry sample: 1 mL water and 2 extraction cycles as optimal experimental parameters to provide the maximum yield of phenolics and the highest bioactivity. The application of the developed SWE method to M. rotundifolia leaves collected in different annuities (2014–2017) showed, in general, no significant differences regarding both composition and antioxidant capacity, as expected from plant samples grown in field under drip irrigation conditions.
Conclusions:
The SWE method here optimized is shown as a sustainable and efficient alternative for providing bioactive M. rotundifolia extracts with application as functional ingredients, natural preservatives, etc. in the food industry, among others.
Aim:
In this work, the development for the first time of a green and efficient method to obtain bioactive extracts from Mentha x rotundifolia leaves has been investigated.
Methods:
The efficiency of three techniques [microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), subcritical water extraction (SWE), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE)] was compared in terms of total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity [1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthioazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays].
Results:
Under similar operating conditions, SWE outperformed MAE and UAE for providing M. rotundifolia extracts with improved antioxidant activity. Further in-depth optimization of the SWE method by means of a Box-Behnken experimental design showed 120°C, 5 min, 0.08 g dry sample: 1 mL water and 2 extraction cycles as optimal experimental parameters to provide the maximum yield of phenolics and the highest bioactivity. The application of the developed SWE method to M. rotundifolia leaves collected in different annuities (2014–2017) showed, in general, no significant differences regarding both composition and antioxidant capacity, as expected from plant samples grown in field under drip irrigation conditions.
Conclusions:
The SWE method here optimized is shown as a sustainable and efficient alternative for providing bioactive M. rotundifolia extracts with application as functional ingredients, natural preservatives, etc. in the food industry, among others.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00004
Nanoscience and nanotechnology have experienced a dizzying development in recent years, which undoubtedly contributes to various fields of human activity such as biotechnology, engineering, medical sciences, food security, etc. This impact has taken place in the food field too, especially in the role played by nanomaterials (NMs) for producing quality nano-based products, food shelf life, and target-specific bioactive delivery, since traditionally the presence of these materials was not at the nano-scale. Anyway, switching these materials to their nano-forms carries benefits as well as risks that must be assessed. Thus, the evaluation of the presence and quantity of these NMs must be achieved based on reliable physic-chemical-analytical information; hence the impact that analytical chemistry should have in the nanoscience to develop validated methodologies for its control. Currently, this fact represents a significant challenge due to the difficulties of measuring entities at the nanoscale in complex samples such as those of food. This review critically explores these analytical challenges, their difficulties, and their trends within the general framework of NMs’ analytical monitoring in food.
Nanoscience and nanotechnology have experienced a dizzying development in recent years, which undoubtedly contributes to various fields of human activity such as biotechnology, engineering, medical sciences, food security, etc. This impact has taken place in the food field too, especially in the role played by nanomaterials (NMs) for producing quality nano-based products, food shelf life, and target-specific bioactive delivery, since traditionally the presence of these materials was not at the nano-scale. Anyway, switching these materials to their nano-forms carries benefits as well as risks that must be assessed. Thus, the evaluation of the presence and quantity of these NMs must be achieved based on reliable physic-chemical-analytical information; hence the impact that analytical chemistry should have in the nanoscience to develop validated methodologies for its control. Currently, this fact represents a significant challenge due to the difficulties of measuring entities at the nanoscale in complex samples such as those of food. This review critically explores these analytical challenges, their difficulties, and their trends within the general framework of NMs’ analytical monitoring in food.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00005
Aim:
The aim of this study is to investigate the polyphenol composition and distribution in the core, flesh, and peel of 20 apple varieties from China and its relation with browning characteristics of apple slices in the drying process.
Methods:
In this paper, the prominent phenolic compounds, which was determined by photo diode array-high-performance liquid chromatography (PDA-HPLC), and the chromatic value [coherent infrared energy (CIE) L*, a*, b*] were correlation analysised.
Results:
The results showed that apple core, flesh, and peel were characterized by phloridzin, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and related derivatives respectively. The 20 apple varieties showed a significant difference (* P < 0.05) in browning variation in the drying process. The browning at the initial stage was mainly L* declined, which was induced by polyphenols enzymatic oxidation. While the browning was characterized by b* and a* value increment at the end of the drying process, where the Maillard reaction was the dominant factor.
Conclusions:
The correlation distance between the main phenolic compounds in apple core, flesh, and peel with the average chromatic L*, a*, and b* values varied at different stages of the drying process.
Aim:
The aim of this study is to investigate the polyphenol composition and distribution in the core, flesh, and peel of 20 apple varieties from China and its relation with browning characteristics of apple slices in the drying process.
Methods:
In this paper, the prominent phenolic compounds, which was determined by photo diode array-high-performance liquid chromatography (PDA-HPLC), and the chromatic value [coherent infrared energy (CIE) L*, a*, b*] were correlation analysised.
Results:
The results showed that apple core, flesh, and peel were characterized by phloridzin, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and related derivatives respectively. The 20 apple varieties showed a significant difference (* P < 0.05) in browning variation in the drying process. The browning at the initial stage was mainly L* declined, which was induced by polyphenols enzymatic oxidation. While the browning was characterized by b* and a* value increment at the end of the drying process, where the Maillard reaction was the dominant factor.
Conclusions:
The correlation distance between the main phenolic compounds in apple core, flesh, and peel with the average chromatic L*, a*, and b* values varied at different stages of the drying process.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2023.00006
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2022.00001
Plants play a key role in the treatment and prevention of diseases since ancient times. Eucalyptus has been traditionally used in the treatment of conditions related to the respiratory system, such as flu, colds, sore throats, bronchitis, as well as neuralgia, and stiffness. Eucalyptus camaldulensis has several phytoconstituents such as ellagitannins endowed with bioactivity, including antioxidant and inhibitory potential on various microorganisms causing foodborne diseases. Tellimagrandin I, pedunculagin, castalagin/vescalagin are among the most representative and have activity against pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Bacillus cereus. These antioxidant ellagitannins may have potential application in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. The main industrial uses of E. camaldulensis are related to the production of wood, paper, and charcoal, with its leaves and branches considered by-products from these industrial activities. However, these plant by-products could be used to obtain bioactive compounds for the development of new and improved consumer goods. Therefore, the aim of this work was to review the main ellagitannins of E. camaldulensis and their antioxidant and antibacterial activities in foodborne microorganisms, as well as the relevance that these compounds may have in the food industry and related sectors.
Plants play a key role in the treatment and prevention of diseases since ancient times. Eucalyptus has been traditionally used in the treatment of conditions related to the respiratory system, such as flu, colds, sore throats, bronchitis, as well as neuralgia, and stiffness. Eucalyptus camaldulensis has several phytoconstituents such as ellagitannins endowed with bioactivity, including antioxidant and inhibitory potential on various microorganisms causing foodborne diseases. Tellimagrandin I, pedunculagin, castalagin/vescalagin are among the most representative and have activity against pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Bacillus cereus. These antioxidant ellagitannins may have potential application in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. The main industrial uses of E. camaldulensis are related to the production of wood, paper, and charcoal, with its leaves and branches considered by-products from these industrial activities. However, these plant by-products could be used to obtain bioactive compounds for the development of new and improved consumer goods. Therefore, the aim of this work was to review the main ellagitannins of E. camaldulensis and their antioxidant and antibacterial activities in foodborne microorganisms, as well as the relevance that these compounds may have in the food industry and related sectors.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2024.00027
This article belongs to the special issue The food (r)evolution towards food quality/security and human nutrition
Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive and irreversible neurodegenerative disorder, is the most prevalent form of dementia with an increasingly growing incidence rate worldwide. As no effective therapeutic modalities are still available for the treatment of this serious disabling condition, lifestyle modifications, especially nutritional interventions, have been shown to be important in its prevention and symptomatic alleviation. In this short perspective article, an inverse association between the intake of sunflower seeds and the mortality from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is proposed, showing that in the countries with the highest consumption of sunflower seeds, the death rate from this neurodegenerative disorder is low. The bioactive ingredients of sunflower seeds and their possible neuroprotective mechanisms are further unraveled, highlighting the potent antioxidant, antiinflammatory and neurotrophic effects of tocopherols, unsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols. Among the latter agents, β-sitosterol might be particularly important in combating Alzheimer’s disease by enhancing the levels of nerve growth factor and thereby promoting neurite formation. If future epidemiological studies will confirm the proposed inverse association between the intake of sunflower seeds and the development of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, it is easy to include appropriate sunflower seed products in the everyday diet to protect against the pathogenesis and progression of this neurodegenerative disorder, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition. Considering the rather long latency period before clinical manifestation of Alzheimer’s disease, nutritional approaches with specific foods might be a promising strategy for fighting against dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive and irreversible neurodegenerative disorder, is the most prevalent form of dementia with an increasingly growing incidence rate worldwide. As no effective therapeutic modalities are still available for the treatment of this serious disabling condition, lifestyle modifications, especially nutritional interventions, have been shown to be important in its prevention and symptomatic alleviation. In this short perspective article, an inverse association between the intake of sunflower seeds and the mortality from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is proposed, showing that in the countries with the highest consumption of sunflower seeds, the death rate from this neurodegenerative disorder is low. The bioactive ingredients of sunflower seeds and their possible neuroprotective mechanisms are further unraveled, highlighting the potent antioxidant, antiinflammatory and neurotrophic effects of tocopherols, unsaturated fatty acids and phytosterols. Among the latter agents, β-sitosterol might be particularly important in combating Alzheimer’s disease by enhancing the levels of nerve growth factor and thereby promoting neurite formation. If future epidemiological studies will confirm the proposed inverse association between the intake of sunflower seeds and the development of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, it is easy to include appropriate sunflower seed products in the everyday diet to protect against the pathogenesis and progression of this neurodegenerative disorder, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition. Considering the rather long latency period before clinical manifestation of Alzheimer’s disease, nutritional approaches with specific foods might be a promising strategy for fighting against dementia.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/eff.2024.00028
