Search Results (5,596)

This study evaluated the physicochemical, antioxidant, and sensory properties of marshmallows enriched with tomato pomace (Lycopersicon esculentum), a by-product rich in fiber and bioactive compounds. Formulations with 0–6% pomace (Control, P1–P3) were analyzed during 20 days of storage. Tomato pomace addition increased crude fiber (from 0.00% to 0.42%) and protein (from 4.62% to 7.05%), while lipid and ash contents remained low (<0.15% and <0.90%, respectively). Carbohydrates ranged around 57–64 g/100 g, resulting in energy values near 270 kcal/100 g. Antioxidant activity (DPPH) increased from 34% in the control to 44% in enriched samples, confirming the contribution of polyphenols and carotenoids. Sensory evaluation (n = 20, 10-point scale) showed good overall acceptability, with enriched samples maintaining color and texture during storage. The results demonstrate that tomato pomace enhances the nutritional and antioxidant profile of marshmallows without negatively affecting sensory quality, supporting its use as a functional ingredient in confectionery formulations. Full article

This study aimed to investigate the effects of adding Red kojic rice (RKR) on the growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, non-specific immunity, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of Litopenaeus vannamei fed a diet with fishmeal replacement by soybean meal. Shrimps (initial mean weight = 1.88 ± 0.03 g) were fed six experimental diets for 8 weeks, including a normal fishmeal control group (FM), a soybean meal-replaced fishmeal group (H0), and four soybean meal-replaced fishmeal groups supplemented with 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4% RKR, respectively, which are designated as H1, H2, H3, and H4, respectively. Each group had three replicates, with 30 shrimp per replicate. The results showed that the final average weight (FWG), weight gain rate (WG), and specific growth rate (SGR) of H2 group were significantly higher than those of H0, H3, and H4 groups (p < 0.05). The feed conversion ratio (FCR) of H2 group was significantly lower than that of H0 and H4 groups (p < 0.05). In contrast to the H0 group, the blood ACP activity in the H2 group was significantly increased (p < 0.05). The blood lysozyme (LYZ) activity in H3 group was significantly higher than that in H1 group (p < 0.05), while the opposite was true for phenoloxidase (PO). The activities of trypsin and amylase in hepatopancreas of H3 group were significantly higher than those of H0 and H1 groups (p < 0.05). Compared with the FM group, the hepatopancreatic malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in H0, H3, and H4 groups were significantly increased (p < 0.05). Compared with the H0 group, the hepatopancreatic MDA levels in H1 and H2 groups were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Analysis of gene expression levels in hepatopancreas revealed that antioxidant (gpx, sod, cat, gst, nrf2, trx, and ho-1), non-specific immune (tnf-α, il-1β, and ifn-γ), and digestive (trypsin and α-amylase) genes were suppressed in the H0 group but enhanced by RKR supplementation. Similar expression patterns of those genes were observed in the intestine. Microbial community analysis showed reduced diversity and altered composition in the H0 group, which were partially restored by RKR. Network analysis showed “small-world” property in microbial co-occurrence network. Metabolomic analysis revealed that among the differential metabolites, Bismurrayaquinone A and Harmol exhibit highly significant differences. Correlation analysis revealed that beneficial bacteria Rhodococcus_C and Oceanobacillus in H2 group exhibited higher richness and showed significant correlation. In conclusion, supplementation of 0.5–2% RKR promoted the growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, non-specific immunity, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal health of shrimp fed a diet with fishmeal replacement by soybean meal. The optimal RKR supplementing content is 1%. Full article

Grape pomace is a major byproduct of winemaking and a rich source of bioactive anthocyanins with potential functional value. This study aimed to optimize anthocyanin extraction from Tannat grape pomace and evaluate its antioxidant and anti-aging activities. Ultrasonic-assisted extraction combined with a Box–Behnken design identified optimal conditions of 51.27 °C, 53.46% ethanol, 20.10 min ultrasonication, and a 1:24.05 solid-to-liquid ratio, yielding 186.21 ± 1.03 mg/100 g (R² = 0.9798, p < 0.0001). Tannat Grape Pomace Anthocyanins showed strong antioxidant capacity, with 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging of 89.44% ± 0.87% at 0.2 mg/mL (IC₅₀ = 0.09 mg/mL) and 2,2′-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) scavenging of 95.83% ± 0.54% at 0.75 mg/mL (IC₅₀ = 0.26 mg/mL). In Caenorhabditis elegans, TGPA extended lifespan, improved motility, and increased heat and oxidative stress resistance without reducing reproductive capacity. Lifespan is a key indicator of aging. This study holds significant implications for advancing our understanding of the mechanisms underlying lifespan regulation, the connection between aging and disease, as well as the development of anti-aging therapies for humans. In conclusion, these findings indicate that Tannat Grape Pomace Anthocyanins possess promising antioxidant and anti-aging potential and support the sustainable, high-value utilization of grape pomace. This approach directly aligns with the core principles of sustainable agriculture by transforming an agricultural byproduct into a valuable resource. Full article

Brown seaweeds are marine bioresources rich in bioactive compounds such as carbohydrates, proteins, pigments, fatty acids, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Among these substances, brown algae-derived polysaccharides (alginate, fucoidan, and laminarin) have promising industrial prospects owing to their distinctive structural features and diverse biological activities. Consequently, processing technologies have advanced substantially to address industrial requirements for biopolymer quality, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Over the years, significant progress has been made in developing various advanced methods for the sake of extracting, purifying, and structurally characterizing polysaccharides. Aside from that, numerous studies reported their broad spectrum of biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, and antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, these substances have various industrial, pharmaceutical, bioenergy, food, and other biotechnology applications. The present review systematically outlines the brown algae-derived polysaccharides treatment process, covering the entire value chain from seaweed harvesting to advanced extraction methods, while highlighting their biological activities and industrial potential as well. Full article

Plants from the Zingiberaceae family, particularly Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa, and Alpinia galanga, are rich sources of bioactive compounds with documented antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. This review summarizes current evidence on their phytochemical profiles and pathways relevant to metabolic regulation. Key compounds, including gingerols, shogaols, curcuminoids, and phenylpropanoids, support glucose homeostasis by enhancing insulin sensitivity, promoting Glucose Transporter Type 4 (GLUT4)-mediated glucose uptake, improving β-cell function, and modulating metabolic signaling pathways such as PI3K/Akt, AMPK, PPARγ, and NF-κB. Their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities further reduce oxidative stress and chronic low-grade inflammation, both central to the progression of type 2 diabetes and its complications. Evidence from selected clinical and experimental studies suggests that dietary supplementation with whole-rhizome preparations or standardized extracts (including formulation-enhanced products) may improve fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid metabolism, and oxidative stress markers. Recent advances in delivery systems, including nanoemulsions, liposomes, and curcumin–piperine complexes, substantially enhance the bioavailability of poorly soluble phytochemicals, strengthening their therapeutic potential. Overall, Zingiberaceae plants emerge as promising natural supplements in nutritional and pharmacological strategies targeting diabetes. Further clinical research is required to refine dosage, confirm long-term efficacy, and support their integration into evidence-based metabolic interventions. Full article

Leccinum is an ecologically significant and taxonomically complex genus of ectomycorrhizal fungi widely distributed across boreal, temperate, Mediterranean, and selected tropical regions. Despite its ecological, nutritional, and applied importance, no comprehensive review has previously synthesized global knowledge on this genus. This work provides the first integrative assessment of Leccinum research, combining a bibliometric analysis of 293 peer-reviewed publications with an in-depth qualitative synthesis of ecological, biochemical, and environmental findings. Bibliometric results show increasing scientific attention since the mid-20th century, with major contributions from Europe, Asia, and North America, and dominant research themes spanning taxonomy, ecology, chemistry, and environmental sciences. The literature review highlights substantial advances in phylogenetic understanding, species diversity, and host specificity. Leccinum forms ectomycorrhizal associations with over 60 woody host genera, underscoring its functional importance in forest ecosystems. Nutritionally, Leccinum species are rich in proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, bioactive polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, and umami-related peptides, with demonstrated antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antitumor activities. At the same time, the genus exhibits notable bioaccumulation capacity for heavy metals (particularly Hg, Cd, and Pb) and radionuclides, making it both a valuable food source and a sensitive environmental bioindicator. Applications in biotechnology, environmental remediation, forest restoration, and functional food development are emerging but remain insufficiently explored. Identified research gaps include the need for global-scale phylogenomic frameworks, expanded geographic sampling, standardized biochemical analyses, and deeper investigation into physiological mechanisms and applied uses. This review provides the first holistic synthesis of Leccinum, offering an integrated perspective on its taxonomy, ecology, nutritional composition, environmental significance, and practical applications. The findings serve as a foundation for future mycological, ecological, and biotechnological research on this diverse and understudied fungal genus. Full article

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can be traditionally treated by edible and medicinal species rich in flavonoids and triterpenoids known for their metabolic benefits. Cucumis prophetarum L. has shown antioxidant and antidiabetic properties in decoction extracts. Since solvent polarity strongly influences the extraction of secondary metabolites, this study investigated the hydroalcoholic extracts of C. prophetarum L. to explore their chemical composition and insulin-sensitizing potential. Hydroalcoholic extracts from the leaf, stem, and root of C. prophetarum L. were analyzed by UV-Vis spectroscopy, ATR-FTIR, and UHPLC-ESI-QqTOF–MS/MS to profile their secondary metabolites. The insulin-sensitizing potential of each extract was assessed using an in vitro model of palmitic-acid-induced insulin resistance in L6 skeletal muscle cells, followed by Western blot analysis of key insulin-signaling proteins. Flavonoid glycosides such as apigenin-C,O-dihexoside, apigenin-malonylhexoside, and luteolin-C,O-dihexoside were abundant in leaf and stem extracts, while cucurbitacins predominated in the root. MTT assay confirmed that hydroalcoholic stem and root extracts of C. prophetarum L. were non-cytotoxic to L6 myotubes, whereas the leaf extract reduced viability only at higher concentrations. Oil Red O staining revealed a pronounced decrease in lipid accumulation following stem and root extract treatment. Consistently, the stem extract enhanced insulin signaling through the activation of the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt pathway, while the root extract primarily modulated the AMPK–mTOR pathway. Importantly, both extracts promoted GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane, highlighting their complementary mechanisms in restoring insulin sensitivity. Hydroalcoholic extracts of C. prophetarum L. alleviate insulin resistance through multiple molecular mechanisms, with bioactivity and composition differing markedly from previously reported in the decoctions, which highlight a promising source of insulin-sensitizing phytochemicals and underscore the importance of solvent selection in maximizing therapeutic potential. Full article

The European chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) industry generates substantial amounts of underutilized biomass, including shells, leaves, and spiny burs. Distinguishing itself from existing literature, this review presents a novel, integrated life-science analysis that redefines these by-products as a complementary ‘bioactive triad’, ranging from metabolic regulators to anti-virulence agents, rather than interchangeable sources of polyphenols. Although traditionally discarded, these by-products are rich sources of polyphenols, ellagitannins, and flavonoids, with promising potential for nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications. This review examines recent advances in the valorization of chestnut by-products, focusing on extraction strategies, chemical profiles, and biological activities. Shell valorization has increasingly shifted toward green extraction technologies, such as subcritical water extraction and deep eutectic solvents, which strongly influence bioactive recovery and composition. Chestnut leaves emerge as a sustainable resource enriched in hydrolysable tannins with anti-inflammatory and quorum sensing-inhibitory properties, particularly relevant for dermatological applications. Spiny burs, often the most phenolic-rich fraction, display marked antioxidant activity and the ability to potentiate conventional antibiotics against pathogens such as Helicobacter pylori. Despite these promising features, major challenges remain, including cultivar-dependent chemical variability, the predominance of in vitro evidence, and safety concerns related to the accumulation of potentially toxic elements. Overall, while chestnut by-products represent valuable resources within circular bioeconomy frameworks, their successful industrial and practical translation will require standardized extraction protocols, robust bioavailability assessments, and well-designed in vivo and clinical studies to ensure safety and efficacy. Full article

As global interest in sustainable nutrition grows, algae have emerged as a promising functional food resource. This review analyzes the nutritional value of edible algae, with a particular focus on protein-rich microalgae, and synthesizes current clinical evidence regarding their health benefits. Algae have been demonstrated to provide a broad spectrum of physiologically active nutrients, encompassing a range of vitamins and minerals as well as polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidant molecules and various bioactive compounds including dietary fiber. These nutrients have been linked to improved cardiovascular and metabolic health, enhanced immune function, and anti-inflammatory effects. A particular emphasis is placed on algal proteins as a novel alternative to traditional dietary proteins. Genera such as Spirulina and Chlorella offer high-quality, complete proteins with amino acid profiles and digestibility scores comparable to those of animal and soy proteins, thereby supporting muscle maintenance and overall nutritional status. Recent clinical studies have demonstrated that the ingestion of microalgae can stimulate muscle protein synthesis and improve lipid profiles, blood pressure, and inflammation markers, indicating functional benefits beyond basic nutrition. Algal proteins also contain bioactive peptides with antioxidative properties that may contribute to positive outcomes. This review synthesizes current studies, which demonstrate that algae represent a potent, sustainable protein source capable of enhancing dietary quality and promoting health. The integration of algae-based products into plant-forward diets has the potential to contribute to global nutritional security and long-term public health. However, the available clinical evidence remains heterogeneous and is largely based on small, short-term intervention studies, with substantial variability in algae species, processing methods and dosages. Consequently, while the evidence suggests the possibility of functional effects, the strength of the evidence and its generalizability across populations remains limited. Full article

Solanum betaceum (tamarillo) is Andean fruit rich in secondary metabolites with increasing relevance in food, nutraceutical, and biotechnological research. Despite growing scientific interest, the available evidence remains fragmented and methodologically heterogeneous. This systematic review consolidates and critically analyzes recent studies on the bioactive composition of S. betaceum, the effects of conventional and emerging processing technologies, and the functional activities reported for fresh fruits, by-products, and processed matrices. A comprehensive search of Lens.org, Scopus, and PubMed was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. From 1049 records identified, 65 studies published between 2020 and 2025 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the qualitative synthesis. The literature reveals substantial variability in polyphenols, anthocyanins, carotenoids, vitamin C, and other metabolites, driven by cultivar, maturity stage, edaphoclimatic conditions, and analytical approaches. Emerging technologies such as ultrasound-assisted extraction, high-pressure homogenization, and spray drying generally improved the recovery and stability of bioactive compounds, whereas intensive thermal treatments were associated with degradation of thermolabile constituents. Functional evidence supports antioxidant, antimicrobial, metabolic modulatory, and cytotoxic activities; however, interpretation is limited by inconsistent reporting practices, limited bioaccessibility assessment, and the predominance of in vitro models. Overall, S. betaceum shows considerable functional and technological potential, but further standardized methodologies, mechanistic studies, and human-relevant models are required to support translational and industrial validation. Full article

Almond skin is an abundant by-product of almond processing and is recognized for its rich content of dietary fiber, polyphenols, and unsaturated fatty acids along with potential health benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition, prebiotic potential, and microbiota modulation properties of dehydrated almond skin, including its use in 3D-printed functional biscuits. Nutritional analysis revealed high dietary fiber (62.6%) and substantial antioxidant capacity linked to polyphenols. Almond skin supplementation with a concentration ranging from 2.5% to 5.0% significantly enhanced the viability of various probiotic strains during storage, extending their shelf life. Two biscuit formulations, with and without almond skin, were produced and subjected to simulated gastrointestinal digestion (INFOGEST protocol) followed by in vitro fermentation using a minimal gut microbiota model (Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bacteroides caccae, Escherichia coli, Segatella copri, and Clostridioides difficile). Results demonstrated that biscuit enriched with almond skin selectively promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria such as B. longum and L. rhamnosus (from 6.9 to 8.5 log cfu/mL and from 7.8 to 9.0 log cfu/mL, respectively) while suppressing pathogens including C. difficile and E. coli. Moreover, enriched biscuits retained higher polyphenol content and exhibited a favorable macronutrient profile. These findings support the valorization of almond skin as a sustainable functional ingredient offering prebiotic effects and probiotic viability protection, with promising applications in personalized nutrition and gut health management. Further in vivo studies and clinical trials are necessary to confirm these effects and optimize formulations for commercial use. Full article

Opportunities to capture anticipated niche markets for diverse populations continue to rise. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.), considered a high-value crop, is rich in nutritional and medicinal properties; however, fresh okra is highly perishable. This study examined the effects of thermal pre-treatments and drying processes in combination on the nutritional quality of dried okra. The experiment consisted of two thermal treatments (steam-blanched and hot water-blanched, and the control) and three drying treatments (freeze-dried, hot air-dried, and infrared-dried). Okra was grown in black plastic mulch, harvested twice per week, and processed three times throughout the growing season. The study analyzed moisture content, water activity, phytonutrients, ascorbic acid, β-carotene, and antioxidant activities. No significant differences were observed in moisture content and water activity among the treatments. Significant differences were observed among treatments and harvest time for total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. Notable differences in β-carotene content were observed across all treatments. Based on the findings, the steam-blanched freeze-dried treatment was the most effective preservation technique for maintaining the nutritional and functional quality of dried okra. Hot water-blanching, hot air-drying, and infrared-drying were the least effective for the development of a high-value, nutrient-dense dried okra value-added product. Full article

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant whose roots are rich in water-soluble phenolic acids. Rosmarinic acid and salvianolic acid B are representative components that confer antibacterial, antioxidant, and cardio-cerebrovascular protective activities. However, these metabolites often accumulate at low and unstable levels in planta, which limits their efficient development and use. This review summarises recent advances in understanding salvianolic acid biosynthesis and its transcriptional regulation in S. miltiorrhiza. Current evidence supports a coordinated pathway composed of the phenylpropanoid route and a tyrosine-derived branch, which converge to generate rosmarinic acid and subsequently more complex derivatives through oxidative coupling reactions. Key findings on transcription factor families that fine-tune pathway flux by regulating core structural genes are synthesised. Representative positive regulators such as SmMYB111, SmMYC2, and SmTGA2 activate key nodes (e.g., PAL, TAT/HPPR, RAS, and CYP98A14) to promote phenolic acid accumulation. Conversely, negative regulators such as SmMYB4 and SmMYB39 repress pathway genes and/or interfere with activator complexes. Major regulatory features include hormone-inducible signalling, cooperative regulation through transcription factor complexes, and emerging post-transcriptional and post-translational controls. Future directions and challenges are discussed, including overcoming regulatory redundancy and strong spatiotemporal specificity of transcriptional control. Integrating spatial and single-cell omics with functional genomics (e.g., genome editing and rational TF stacking) is highlighted as a promising strategy to enable predictive metabolic engineering for the stable, high-yield production of salvianolic acid-type compounds. Full article

Oxidative stress contributes significantly to chronic disease burden, necessitating identification of accessible dietary antioxidant sources. Pigeon peas (Cajanus cajan L.) contain substantial bioactive compounds, yet most exist in bound forms with limited bioavailability. This study evaluated wild fermentation combined with systematic extraction optimization to enhance antioxidant recovery from pigeon peas. Seeds underwent wild fermentation in brine solution, followed by extraction under varying conditions (seven solvent systems, three temperatures, and three-time durations). Multiple complementary assays assessed antioxidant capacity (total phenolic content, DPPH radical scavenging, ferric reducing power, and ABTS activity). Fermentation substantially improved antioxidant properties across all parameters, with particularly pronounced effects on radical scavenging activities. Extraction optimization identified 70% methanol at 40 °C for 24 h as optimal, demonstrating marked improvements over conventional protocols. Strong intercorrelations among assays confirmed coordinated enhancement of multiple antioxidant mechanisms rather than isolated changes. The findings demonstrate that both biotechnological processing and analytical methodology critically influence antioxidant characterization in pigeon peas. This integrated approach offers practical guidance for developing antioxidant-rich functional foods, particularly relevant for resource-limited settings where pigeon peas serve as dietary staples. The study establishes foundation for translating fermentation technology into nutritional interventions, though further research addressing bioavailability, microbiological characterization, and bioactive compound identification remains essential. Full article

Background/Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite therapeutic advances, prevention through dietary bioactives remains a promising strategy. The Annurca apple (Malus pumila Miller cv. Annurca), a Mediterranean food rich in chlorogenic acid, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study evaluated, via molecular docking, the multi-target interaction profile of chlorogenic acid against key CRC-related proteins. Methods: The optimized 3D structure of chlorogenic acid was docked to ten protein targets implicated in CRC pathogenesis, using the GOLD v.2022.3.0 software. Validation of the docking protocol was achieved by re-docking native ligands (RMSD ≤ 2.0 Å). Binding affinities were assessed by ChemPLP scoring, and interaction networks were visualized in Maestro Schrödinger. Results: Chlorogenic acid displayed consistent binding across all evaluated targets (ChemPLP 57.12–69.66), showing the highest affinity for nAChR (69.66), CXCR2 (65.13), ERβ (63.18) and TGFBR2 (62.94). The ligand formed multiple hydrogen bonds and π-π stacking interactions involving Asp1040 (VEGFR-1), Cys919 (VEGFR-2), Lys320 (CXCR2), and Tyr195 residues (nAChR), contributing to strong complex stabilization. Interaction patterns in CYP19A1, ERβ, and ERRγ suggested potential modulation of hormonal and metabolic signaling. The compound also demonstrated stable binding to mTOR (60.01), indicating a possible inhibitory role in proliferative pathways. Collectively, these findings reveal a broad, polypharmacological binding profile involving angiogenic, inflammatory, and hormonal regulators. Conclusions: Chlorogenic acid acts as a promising multi-target ligand in CRC prevention, with our in silico evidence supporting its ability to modulate diverse oncogenic pathways. Further experimental studies are warranted to confirm its efficacy and translational potential. Full article