Search Results (162)

Biomasses from agro-industrial practices in the Amazon have generated significant inputs in the last decade for the development of projects and the extension of more sustainable production chains, based on the results of research on both laboratory and pilot scales, and from the rapid expansion in industrial scaling. The rise in the use of biomass includes the use of raw materials from so-called superfruits, notable examples of which include açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa HBK), pupunha (Bactris gasipaes Kunth), tucumã (Astrocaryum aculeatum) and buriti (Mauritia flexuosa). All of these are of great importance to the trade balance of the Amazon region, contributing significantly to the import of products and by-products from Brazil. In view of the above, this research aims to present the nutritional, functional and technological properties of these biomasses as a contribution to industrial innovation in the use of isolated constituents in various segments of the food, pharmaceutical, dermocosmetic and packaging industries. The data show that research into the protein, fibrous and starch-based biopolymers contained in these biomasses has been guided and deepened, with an emphasis on investigations in isolation and on applications of bioactive compounds and starches and fibers in the development of films and packaging with good resistance properties and high environmental biodegradability, these being economically viable as food coatings, acting in synergy with the application of technologies and the increase in the sustainable circular bioeconomy in the Amazon, combining techno-economic and environmental development in the most diverse industrial sectors. Full article

Polyphenols, particularly anthocyanins, are associated with metabolic health benefits; however, whether anthocyanin extracts provide greater bioaccessibility than whole foods remain unclear. This study investigated the role of the food matrix in açaí berry, one of the richest natural sources of anthocyanins, by comparing polyphenol and anthocyanin bioaccessibility across freeze-dried whole fruit, crude extract, and purified extract. All samples underwent standardised INFOGEST in vitro digestion, and total polyphenol content (TPC), anthocyanins (ACN), and antioxidant activity were quantified using Folin–Ciocalteu, pH-differential, and DPPH assays, respectively. Intestinal-phase TPC % bioaccessibility was similar in whole fruit (58%) and crude extract (58%) but significantly lower in pure extract (43%). ACN bioaccessibility showed a pronounced matrix effect, with the highest retention in whole fruit (44%), followed by crude extract (32%), and the lowest retention in pure extract (12%). Antioxidant activity after intestinal digestion mirrored these patterns. Overall, these findings demonstrate that the natural açaí food matrix substantially preserves anthocyanin stability during digestion, resulting in higher bioaccessible levels than matrix-free extracts, suggesting that incorporating matrix components into anthocyanin-rich nutraceuticals may help support greater functional recovery during gastrointestinal digestion. Full article

Chagas disease remains a major public health challenge due to the limited effectiveness and considerable side effects of existing treatments, particularly during the chronic stage. Açaí (Euterpe oleracea) seeds have gained increasing attention as a source of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic applications. In this study, hydroalcoholic extracts and solvent fractions obtained from açaí seeds were chemically characterized by ESI/MS and HPLC–MS/MS and evaluated for their cytotoxicity and antiparasitic activity against different developmental stages of Trypanosoma cruzi (Y strain). Chemical profiling revealed a predominance of phenolic compounds, particularly catechins and procyanidins, which were identified as major constituents of the hydroalcoholic extract and the ethyl acetate fraction. Cytotoxicity assays performed on murine peritoneal macrophages demonstrated low toxicity, with CC₅₀ values exceeding 500 µg/mL for most samples, indicating a favorable in vitro safety profile. Antiparasitic assays showed weak activity against epimastigote forms; however, significant inhibitory effects were observed against bloodstream trypomastigotes, cell culture-derived trypomastigotes, and intracellular amastigotes. Notably, the hydroalcoholic extract exhibited the highest selectivity against intracellular amastigotes, with a selectivity index greater than 10, fulfilling key criteria proposed by the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) for early-stage hit compounds. Flow cytometry analysis showed that both the hydroalcoholic extract and the ethyl acetate fraction induced parasite cell death through late apoptosis-like and necrosis. Together, these findings highlight the antiparasitic potential of E. oleracea seed extracts, particularly against clinically relevant stages of T. cruzi, and support further investigation of these bioproducts as promising candidates for the development of new therapeutic strategies for Chagas disease. Full article

Amazonian fruits are increasingly recognized for their functional properties due to their rich composition of bioactive metabolites. While species such as Euterpe oleracea Mart., Euterpe precatoria Mart., Mauritia flexuosa L., and Theobroma grandiflorum (Wild. ex Spreng.) have been extensively studied in countries like Brazil, research on these fruits in Colombia remains limited. This study aimed to characterize the secondary metabolites in freeze-dried pulp and seed samples of açaí, mirití, and cupuassu at different ripening stages, collected in Mitú (Vaupés, Colombia). Eleven samples of different fruits were collected and analyzed by untargeted metabolomics. Untargeted metabolomic profile was performed using LC-QTOF-MS and GC-QTOF-MS techniques. The pulp of M. flexuosa showed high concentrations of galacturonic acid. In T. grandiflorum, both pulp and seeds contained significant levels of galactose and citric acid. Notably, flavonoids such as fisetin and kaempferol-O-rutinoside were abundant in the pulp of E. oleracea and E. precatoria. Additionally, quinic acid and mannitol were detected in the unripe stages of Euterpe and Mauritia species. The diverse profile of secondary metabolites identified in these Colombian Amazonian fruits underscores their functional and nutritional potential. These findings support further exploration of native species for food, nutraceutical, and industrial applications, contributing to the valorization of Amazonian biodiversity. Full article

The development of a mixed beverage combining açaí pulp and whey unites the antioxidant potential of açaí with the nutritional and functional properties of whey, offering a promising option for health-oriented food products. This study evaluated the effects of thermal processing on the antioxidant properties, physicochemical parameters, and sensory acceptance of an açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) pulp–whey-based beverage (APWBB). Samples were heated at 75 °C, 80 °C, and 90 °C for 15, 60, and 300 s, resulting in nine treatments (T1–T9). Thermal processing had little influence on the beverage’s physicochemical parameters; however, total phenolic content and total anthocyanins progressively decreased with increasing temperature and heating time. Losses reached 44.30 to 16.30 mg GAE/100 mL (phenolics) and 10.03 to 6.30 mg/100 mL (anthocyanins) between the control and the most intense treatment, showing a linear reduction pattern. These decreases were strongly correlated with reductions in antioxidant capacity (FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS), demonstrating the sensitivity of bioactive compounds to heat. Sensory evaluation revealed no significant differences among treatments, and the beverage showed high acceptance (71–80%) and positive purchase intention, highlighting its stability and market potential. Overall, the combination of açaí and whey represents a promising matrix for developing functional beverages, provided that suitable thermal parameters are adopted to minimize bioactive compound degradation. Full article

This work presents the development and characterization of laminated composite panels produced from açaí residues and fibers, incorporated into a castor oil-based vegetable polyurethane matrix. The study aimed to evaluate the potential of these Amazonian agro-industrial residues as lignocellulosic reinforcement in sustainable materials. The manufacturing process was carried out by manual lamination and cold pressing, following the recommendations of ABNT NBR 14810-2:2018. The physical (moisture, density, and swelling) and mechanical (perpendicular tensile and static flexural) properties of the resulting panels were analyzed. The results revealed an average moisture content of 6.23% and a 24 h swelling of 2.76%, which are values within and well below the regulatory limits, respectively. The perpendicular tensile strength (0.49 N/mm²) exceeded the minimum required value, indicating good interfacial adhesion and internal cohesion. However, the flexural strength and modulus of elasticity (2.4 N/mm² and 1323 N/mm²) were below the standards due to the absence of oriented fibers and density heterogeneity. It is concluded that the composite has high potential for indoor applications with low structural stress, standing out for its lightness, dimensional stability and environmental viability in the use of açaí residues. Full article

Oral infection is now the main route of Chagas disease transmission in endemic countries, with açaí (Euterpe oleracea) being the primary food involved in Brazil. However, the role of açaí in parasite–host interaction remains largely unexplored. This study assessed the effect of açaí inoculum on experimental Trypanosoma cruzi infection. BALB/c mice were orally infected with metacyclic trypomastigotes in RPMI or açaí. No difference in survival was observed. Tissue parasite load showed higher gastric parasitism in the RPMI group on day 5 after infection. Proteomic analysis of the açaí group revealed increased levels of cytoskeletal keratins and mucins, along with decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines and markers of tissue repair, indicating modulation of gastric inflammation. Both infected groups exhibited higher levels of gastrointestinal proteins (acid chitinase, gastrocin 1, trefoil) associated with mucosal protection and parasite clearance. These findings suggest that oral infection with açaí occurs more subtly, possibly due to decreased gastric inflammation, and highlight potential biomarkers for oral Chagas disease. Full article

In response to the increasing consumer demand for healthier diets and the needs of individuals with gluten intolerance, chestnut flour (CF) emerges as a valuable unconventional ingredient for sustainable and functional nutrition. This study evaluated the nutritional, phytochemical, and functional properties of gluten-free biscuits formulated with whole rice flour (RF), CF, and their mixtures, where RF was replaced by CF at 0% (control), 10%, 30%, 70%, 90%, and 100% (w/w). In addition, in the 50% CF formulation, 5% of RF was substituted with fruit powders rich in phenolic compounds and recognized as fortifying agents, such as chokeberry (CP), açaí (AP), and blueberry (BP). Proximate composition, macro- and microelement content, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity (DPPH and FRAP assays) were determined for the individual flours, composite flours, fruit powders, and biscuit formulations. Structural characteristics were assessed using Small- and Wide-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS/WAXS) analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Results showed that CF incorporation enhanced both the nutritional and functional profile of flours and biscuits, increasing protein, fiber, lipid, and mineral contents while reducing carbohydrates, and improving TPC, TFC, DPPH, and FRAP values. Fortification with 5% CP, AP, or BP further boosted the phytochemical content of the biscuits, with the chokeberry-enriched sample exhibiting the highest TPC (348.88 mg GAE/100 g d.s.), TFC (253.82 mg QE/100 g d.s.), DPPH (50.36%), and FRAP (21.07 μM Fe²⁺/g d.s.). The combination of 50% CF and 5% CP provided dual benefits, significant bioactive enrichment alongside the preservation of desirable technological properties. Complementary SAXS/WAXS and FTIR analyses indicated that CF and fruit powders enhanced molecular interactions and matrix cohesion, which may contribute to improved texture and antioxidant potential of the biscuits. Overall, this formulation offers a promising and practical approach to developing functional gluten-free biscuits with enhanced nutritional, phytochemical, functional, and structural characteristics. Full article

Epicatechin is a flavonoid of the catechin subclass, found in fruits and medicinal plants such as açaí and green tea, widely studied for its anti-inflammatory properties. However, flavonoids often present chemical instability, low aqueous solubility, and poor bioavailability, limiting their therapeutic potential. This study aimed to incorporate epicatechin into nanocapsules to improve its applicability and evaluate whether the formulation maintains its anti-inflammatory effects via modulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Nanocapsules containing 0.25 mg/mL of epicatechin (NC-ECs) were prepared with Eudragit L-100 using interfacial deposition of a preformed polymer. The formulations were characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and pH, as well as thermal stability over 45 days. Encapsulation efficiency and drug content were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and morphology analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Cytocompatibility was assessed in VERO cells, and anti-inflammatory activity was investigated in THP-1-derived macrophages stimulated with LPS + nigericin. The NC-ECs displayed suitable physicochemical properties, high encapsulation efficiency (96%), and full drug loading. The formulation also showed good cytocompatibility and preserved anti-inflammatory activity through NLRP3 inflammasome modulation at low concentrations. These findings indicate NC-ECs as a promising nanotechnological strategy for treating inflammatory diseases involving NLRP3, highlighting its potential contribution to nanomedicine. Full article

Açaí, a berry emblematic of Amazonian biodiversity, is a major Brazilian product whose market value is largely concentrated in its pulp, leaving the residual biomass—particularly the fibrous seed—underexploited and typically discarded in landfills, with negative environmental and social consequences. To address this gap, this study employs a systematic technology roadmapping approach, integrating bibliometric analysis, patent landscaping, and expert consultations to consolidate fragmented data. This methodology enables the mapping of innovation trajectories across technology readiness levels, product categories, market segments, and key stakeholders. The roadmap identifies emerging trends and opportunity windows for valorizing açaí biomass via integrated biorefinery approaches, moving beyond traditional low-complexity uses such as thermal energy and seed-derived coffee substitutes. The highlighted products include pharmaceutical extracts, cosmetic ingredients, nanopapers, and cellulose nanocrystals, leveraging the biomass’s biochemical composition, notably antioxidants, mannose, and inulin. This methodological framework facilitates a dynamic analysis of technological maturation and market evolution, offering strategic insights to guide industrial investments and policy development. Findings indicate that biorefinery integration enhances resource efficiency and product diversification, situating açaí biomass valorization within broader bioeconomy strategies. The study demonstrates the efficacy of technology roadmapping in structuring prospective innovation pathways and in supporting the sustainable utilization of the Amazonian biomass. Full article

Processing economically and socio-culturally significant Amazonian fruits—andiroba (Carapa guianensis Aubl.), açai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), and babassu (Attalea speciosa Mart. ex Spreng.)—generates substantial biomass waste, posing critical environmental and waste management challenges. This study explored the valorization of these abundant residual biomasses as sustainable feedstocks for biosurfactant production by bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa P23G-02, while simultaneously profiling their nutritional value and broader implications for a circular bioeconomy. Through liquid fermentation, biosurfactants were produced at an approximate yield of 6 mg/mL. The isolated biosurfactants exhibited favorable properties, including emulsification indices of around 60% and surface tension reduction to below 30 mN/m, with the andiroba-derived biosurfactant identified as a rhamnolipid type. Nutritional profiling of the residues revealed significant energy values, reaching up to 656 kcal/100 g, with açai and babassu residues being carbohydrate-rich (exceeding 80%), and andiroba residues exhibiting a high lipid profile (up to 57%). These distinct compositions critically influenced biosurfactant yield. These findings underscore the viability of Amazonian fruit biomass as valuable resources for developing eco-friendly bioproducts and innovative waste management solutions. While highlighting a promising pathway for circular bioeconomy development, future research should address biosafety and explore alternative microbial hosts for applications in sensitive sectors such as food and nutrition. Full article

Background/Objectives: Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide. There is an unmet need to manage stroke pathophysiology, including L-glutamate (L-Glu)-mediated neurotoxicity. The acai berry (Euterpe sp.) contains phytochemicals with potentially nutraceutical content. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of acai berry extracts to counter L-Glu neurotoxicity using human differentiated TE671 cells. Methods: The cytotoxicity of L-Glu and acai berry extracts was quantified using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays. Mitochondrial function was examined by a quantitation of cellular ATP levels, the maintenance of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings monitored the activation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs). Candidate phytochemicals from acai berry extracts were modeled in silico for NMDAR binding. Results: L-Glu significantly reduced cell viability, ATP levels, the MMP, and increased cellular ROS. Generally, acai berry extracts alone were not cytotoxic, although high concentrations were detrimental to ATP production, maintenance of the MMP, and elevated ROS levels. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings revealed that the combined addition of 300 µM L-Glu and 10 µM glycine activated currents in differentiated TE671 cells, consistent with triggering NMDAR activity. Acai berry extracts ameliorated the L-Glu-induced cytotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, elevated ROS levels, and limited the NMDAR-mediated excitotoxicity (p < 0.001–0.0001). Several virtual ligands from acai berry extracts exhibited high-affinity NMDAR binding (arginine, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, threonine, protocatechuic acid, and histidine) as possible candidate receptor antagonists. Conclusions: Acai berry phytochemicals could be exploited to reduce the L-Glu-induced neurotoxicity often observed in stroke and other neurodegenerative diseases. Full article

Antioxidants, such as flavonoids, are influential secondary metabolites that play a significant role in regulating human health. Açaí, known for its potent antioxidant properties, has gained popularity in the nutritional field. However, there is a need for accurate methods to quantify its antioxidant capacity. Therefore, the goal of this investigation was to determine the total antioxidant capacity of frozen açaí pulp by applying the concept of the electrochemical quantitative index (EQI) using the cyclic voltammetry technique. The electrochemical response of ethanolic extracts obtained by a nonconventional ultrasound bath was investigated in the anodic region. The results clearly showed redox behavior at +0.37 V and +0.27 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) for the anodic and cathodic peaks, respectively, when evaluated by cyclic voltammetry at a glassy carbon (GC) electrode. By investigating a constant ethanolic extract concentration (0.2%) and analyzing the scan rate and supporting electrolyte effects, it was determined that the frozen açaí pulp extract presented an EQI of about 2.3 µA/V. Similarly, the concept of the EQI was extended to the use of the differential pulse voltammetry profile of a 0.2% ethanolic açaí extract on different supporting electrolytes, which showed that some experimental conditions needed improvement. Still, maintaining pH with a buffer solution in the anodic region is crucial to ensure reproducibility. The antioxidant capacity was also determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical assay to compare the electrochemical results. The Folin–Ciocalteu colorimetric test was applied to determine the total phenolic content of the extract. Full article

In the native açaí groves of Lago do Maicá, in western Pará, harvesting is still performed using traditional techniques such as the peconha, which is a rope device tied to the feet that helps with climbing açaí palms. The absence of affordable and locally adaptable technologies compromises the safety of extractivists and limits the strengthening of the açaí value chain, affecting the development of a forest-based bioeconomy. This study focused on the Quilombo of Murumuru to understand the profile of local extractivists and identify which technologies could be more easily adopted in floodplain environments. After ethics approval, fieldwork involved participatory activities including knowledge-sharing meetings, transect walks, community discussions, and structured interviews. The results indicated that most collectors identify themselves primarily as açaí extractivists. Some rely exclusively on this activity for income, while others complement it with fishing or agro-extractivism. Reports of occupational risks were frequent, especially due to falls and contact with venomous animals. There was also a clear lack of technical assistance and limited access to context-sensitive technologies. The study highlights the need for institutional partnerships that support income diversification, value traditional knowledge, and improve working conditions. Strengthening the native açaí value chain in floodplain regions is essential for reducing socioeconomic vulnerability and advancing a regenerative, community-centered bioeconomy in the Amazon. Full article

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), a fruit from the Amazon, is valuable both economically and nutritionally. Its seeds, often discarded, can be transformed into bio-oil through pyrolysis (a thermochemical degradation process of residual biomass), providing a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. This study investigates how temperature and molarity influence the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities of the produced bio-oil. Various assays were performed on bio-oil samples obtained under different pyrolysis conditions—specifically, at temperatures of 350, 400, and 450 °C, and molarities of 0.5 M, 1.0 M, and 2.0 M—to evaluate antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was used to analyze the composition, revealing that phenolic compounds were the most abundant (55.70%), followed by cyclic and aromatic hydrocarbons (11.89%), and linear hydrocarbons (9.64%). Despite a reduction in oxygenated compounds, the bio-oil maintained bacteriostatic activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, especially at 350 °C. The antioxidant activity was highest at 350 °C and at lower molarities. Additionally, lower concentrations of acid impregnation showed cytotoxic effects at higher temperatures. Thus, bio-oil from açaí seeds produced via pyrolysis demonstrates potential for antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, suggesting viability for further testing at dilutions with lower cytotoxicity. Full article