Search Results (117)

Xanthophylls are oxygenated carotenoids widely distributed in photosynthetic microorganisms, plants, algae, and certain invertebrates, where they function as key photoprotective and antioxidant pigments. Among them, xanthophylls containing vicinal 1,2-diol moieties exhibit unique chemical reactivity that enables reversible coordination with boron species naturally present in marine and terrestrial environments. The formation of cyclic borate esters between boron and diol-containing xanthophylls induces structural and electronic modifications that may enhance pigment stability and functional performance. Emerging evidence suggests that boron–xanthophyll complexes display improved resistance to photooxidative degradation, enhanced singlet oxygen quenching capacity, and increased radical-scavenging activity compared with their uncomplexed counterparts. In addition, boron coordination can influence molecular conformation, polarity, and supramolecular organization within lipid bilayers, thereby promoting membrane stabilization under conditions of high light exposure and oxidative stress. Together, these effects indicate a cooperative role of boron complexation in amplifying the intrinsic photoprotective and antioxidant properties of xanthophylls. A deeper understanding of the structural basis and biological implications of boron–xanthophyll interactions may provide new insights into adaptive stress tolerance in marine and photosynthetic organisms, as well as guide the development of advanced photoprotective systems for biomedical and technological applications. Full article

The integration of rooted plant flour into traditional noodle matrices, such as rice noodles and qingke noodles, represents a novel approach to enhancing the nutritional and sensory profiles of staple foods. This study investigates the volatile flavor components and functional compounds derived from rooted plant flours, including Gongmi “tribute rice”, qingke “highland barley” flour, kudzu vine flour, Gastrodia elata blume flour, dried ginger flour, and fishwort root flour, when incorporated into rice and qingke noodles. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive analysis of how these flours influence not only the nutritional and textural properties but also the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that define sensory acceptance and health benefits. Using advanced gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), we identified key VOCs, such as esters, aldehydes, and terpenes, which contribute to unique flavor profiles like umami, sweetness, and earthy notes in fortified noodles. Additionally, the study highlights the best functional compounds for health, including polyphenols, resistant starch, and polysaccharides, which demonstrate significant antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering properties. For instance, highland barley enriched flour exhibited high levels of phenolic compounds and carotenoids, which correlated with improved antioxidant activity and a reduced glycemic index. Similarly, Gongmi flour contributed elevated levels of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and rutin, enhancing the rice noodles’ potential to manage metabolic diseases and support cardiovascular health. Molecular docking analyses predicted strong interactions between key volatile compounds (e.g., 3-dihydro-1, 3-trimethyl-33-phenyl-1H-indene) and metabolic targets like ACE and SGLT1, suggesting mechanisms for their cardioprotective and anti-diabetic effects. This research provides a groundbreaking framework for developing next generation functional foods by leveraging rooted plant flours to bridge the gap between sensory appeal and health efficacy, offering strategic insights for personalized nutrition and sustainable food production. Full article

Introduction: Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) is a key technique in the characterization of biomaterials, allowing the identification of functional groups and the verification of bioactive compound incorporation in nanostructured systems. In this study, the spectral signature of raw materials used in the formulation of a nanoemulsion with curcumin, sunflower oil, annatto oil, and Cremophor applied in the production of a dressing consisting of a natural latex biomembrane (Hevea brasiliensis) was evaluated. Methodology: FTIR spectra were obtained from isolated raw materials (curcumin, vegetable oils, and Cremophor) and from the curcumin-containing nanoemulsion formulation, aiming to compare their spectral profiles and identify possible chemical interactions. Results: Curcumin showed characteristic bands around 3328–3508 cm⁻¹ (–OH), 1637 cm⁻¹ (C=O and conjugated C=C), and 1505 cm⁻¹ (aromatic ring), confirming its polyphenolic structure. Sunflower oil exhibited an intense peak at 1744 cm⁻¹ (ester carbonyl), associated with its triglyceride composition, while annatto oil showed a band at 1633 cm⁻¹ (conjugated C=O), indicative of bixine and carotenoids. Cremophor presented peaks at 3460 cm⁻¹ (–OH) and 1726 cm⁻¹ (C=O), typical of ethoxylated surfactants. In the curcumin-containing nanoemulsion, the Cremophor spectral profile predominated, but new bands between 1511 and 1637 cm⁻¹, associated with curcumin, confirmed its incorporation into the matrix. Conclusion: The FTIR results confirmed the preservation of the spectral signatures of the raw materials and the successful integration of curcumin into the nanoemulsion, reinforcing its potential for application in biomaterial-based dressings Full article

The large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) is an economically significant aquaculture species in Asia, with skin coloration being a key quality attribute affecting consumer choice and commercial value. This study integrated morphological, biochemical, and proteomic approaches to investigate chromatophore characteristics, pigment composition, and diurnal body color variation in the large yellow croaker. Colorimetric analysis showed the highest yellowness, redness, and lightness values in ventral skin, followed by caudal skin, with dorsal skin showing the least yellowness. Three major chromatophores were identified: melanophores, xanthophores, and iridophores. Xanthophores were abundant in ventral and caudal skin, showing larger size and deeper pigmentation ventrally, while melanophores dominated dorsally and iridophores were mainly on scales. Skin and fins were key sites for carotenoid deposition, with lutein as the predominant carotenoid. Esters of lutein and zeaxanthin were the main contributors to yellow coloration in fish. A strong positive correlation was found between skin yellowness and total carotenoid content (R = 0.91, p < 0.05). The aggregation and dispersion of xanthosomes within xanthophores appeared to be the key driver behind the light-influenced diurnal body color variation. Proteomic analysis revealed motor proteins (such as KIF21, DYNC1L1, and MYO9) and pathways related to intracellular granule movement were probably related to the pigment transport in chromatophores of large yellow croaker. In addition, tubulin dynamics also appeared to participate in pigment translocation. This study is helpful to understand the pigmentary basis of this important farmed sea fish and provides a foundation for improving the golden color traits and further molecular research on diurnal color changes in large yellow croaker. Full article

Pile fermentation is a crucial process for developing the characteristic mellow taste and aged aroma of dark tea, yet the internal quality transformation mechanism of this process is still unclear. This study employed a high-sensitivity analytical platform based on gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to systematically investigate the dynamic interplay between key chemical components, enzyme activities, and volatile compounds during the pile fermentation of primary dark tea. Our findings revealed a significant decrease in ester-type catechins, crude protein, and protopectin, alongside a notable accumulation of non-ester-type catechins, gallic acid, and soluble components. The multi-enzyme system—comprising PPO/POD, pectinase/cellulase, and protease—cooperatively drove the oxidation of phenols, cell wall degradation, and the release of aromatic precursors. This was complemented by GC-MS analysis, which identified and quantified 103 volatile compounds across nine chemical classes. The total content of volatile compounds increased significantly, with alcohols, esters, and aldehydes/ketones being the dominant groups. Floral and fruity compounds such as linalool and geraniol accumulated continuously, while esters exhibited an initial increase followed by a decrease. Notably, carotenoid degradation products, including β-ionone, were significantly enriched during the later stages. This study revealed a “oxidation–hydrolysis–reconstruction” metabolic mechanism co-driven by microbial activity and a multi-enzyme system, providing a theoretical foundation for the precise regulation of pile fermentation and targeted quality improvement of primary dark tea. Full article

Post-harvest losses of ‘Cruiser’ cantaloupe reach ~15% in arid regions of Mexico, representing substantial wasted water and embedded greenhouse-gas emissions. This study presents an open-access, low-temperature maceration protocol for converting cosmetically rejected fruit into a carotenoid-rich spirit at rural scale. A 5-day maceration at 20 °C (15% pulp, 20% v/v ethanol) preserved color, β-carotene, and antioxidant capacity over 90 days of storage. Shelf-life predictions beyond this period are model-based and require long-term validation. Trained assessors characterized the beverage with a favorable aromatic profile driven by fruity esters and floral terpenes. Life-cycle results indicated lower cradle-to-gate impacts than reference mango spirits, and composting of pomace generated a mature soil amendment. A simplified techno-economic scenario suggests potential for rural processing but excludes taxation, licensing, and regulatory compliance; thus, economic feasibility cannot yet be confirmed. Overall, this study provides a proof-of-concept pathway for valorizing cantaloupe waste through low-temperature maceration and identifies critical analytical, regulatory, and economic aspects needed for future scale-up. Full article

Acylpyruvate derivatives represent a promising yet underexplored class of compounds for modulating microalgal growth and metabolism. Inspired by the metabolic role of pyruvate and the diverse bioactivity of its acylated analogs, this study investigates the structure–activity relationship of a diverse library of 55 acylpyruvate-derived compounds for stimulation of the green microalga Chlorella vulgaris. The library, encompassing 12 chemotypes including acylpyruvic acids, their esters, and various heterocyclic derivatives, was screened for effects on C. vulgaris growth. Six compounds were identified as active ones that enhanced biomass production in a preliminary microassay. Notably, four of these active compounds were direct acylpyruvate derivatives, highlighting this scaffold as the most promising one. Conversely, a specific subclass, 1,4-benzoxazin-2-ones, exhibited potent, dose-dependent algicidal activity. Detailed assessment of the active compounds under scaled-up culture conditions revealed that while their effect on overall cell density was limited, several compounds significantly enhanced the intracellular content of valuable metabolites: one increased chlorophyll content by 17%, another elevated carotenoids by 40%, and a third boosted neutral lipid accumulation by 44%. Furthermore, control experiments confirmed that the bioactivity of p-ethoxybenzoylpyruvates, which showed the best biological activity, is inherent in the intact framework and is not mediated by their hydrolysis products. Our findings underscore the potential of acylpyruvates as versatile tools for the enhancement of metabolite production in microalgae and as potent candidates for the development of algicides. Full article

[Background] Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) is the main source of the natural pigment lutein. [Methods] In this study, Marigold served as the experimental material for systematic observation of floral organ development. Based on floral morphology and lutein content, the full-flowering stage was identified as the optimal harvesting period. [Results] Under different light intensity gradients (30–1500 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹), the highest lutein content in petals occurred at ≈500 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹. Increased light intensities promoted flowering and enlarged flower diameter while significantly shortening the growth cycle. Transcriptome analysis revealed that light intensity variation markedly influenced the expression of genes related to metabolic pathways, plant hormone signal transduction, and carotenoid biosynthesis, and enriched transcription factor families including bHLH, MYB, NAC, and WRKY. Metabolomic profiling identified lutein esters, such as lutein dimyristate and lutein dipalmitate, as the dominant accumulated forms, with their contents positively correlated with light intensity; under high light, intermediate metabolites, including α-cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin, were significantly up-regulated. [Conclusions] This study clarifies the molecular mechanism by which light intensity precisely regulates lutein accumulation through coordinated synthesis, esterification, and degradation pathways, offering a theoretical foundation for light-regulated cultivation of T. erecta L. and efficient lutein production. Full article

Platycerium bifurcatum is one of the most widely cultivated ornamental fern species worldwide and a valuable component of the biodiversity of pantropical forests. In addition to its photosynthetic function, the sporotrophophyll leaves of this species periodically develop a large, clearly demarcated sporangium at the leaf tips, enabling physiological and biochemical measurements both in the active sporulation part and in the non-sporulating leaf area. The aim of this study was to assess anatomical changes, determine thermal effects and the content of selected phytohormones, and analyze the spatial distribution of pigments in the sporophilic and trophophylic part of the same leaf during spore formation. The study utilized fluorescence microscopy, isothermal microcalorimetry, Raman mapping, and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a Triple Quad LC/MS analyzer. The results revealed significant physiological differences between the sporulating and non-sporulating leaf areas. For the first time, differences in thermogenesis within the two leaf regions accompanying sporulation and linked to the sporangium development stage have been demonstrated in ferns. Increases in gibberellins (GA3, GA4, and GA6), auxin (indole-3-butyric acid), (±)-cis, trans-abscisic acid, and abscisic acid glucose ester were observed in the sporophilic part of the leaf, as well as fluctuations in phytohormones in the trophophilic part, indicating internal metabolite relocation within the leaf. Raman analysis and 2D mapping revealed local lignin accumulation and fluctuations in carotenoid levels during spore maturation. The results of this study demonstrate physiological variation within a single leaf and the mechanisms accompanying sporulation, which provide a better understanding of fern adaptive strategies. Full article

In recent years, numerous studies have emerged on the biological activities of endemic berries from the Valdivian Forest and their potential for therapeutic use. However, some species appear to have been relatively neglected. The objective of this study was to conduct, for the first time, a phytochemical composition analysis of a hydroalcoholic extract of Luzuriaga radicans Ruiz & Pav. and to evaluate its potential as an antioxidant and as an enzyme inhibitor in relation to chronic non-communicable diseases. The berries were collected in the Saval Park in Valdivia and were subsequently extracted via sonication in ethanol/water. UHPLC-DAD, HPLC-APCI (+)-MS, and UHPLC-ESI (+)-TOF-MS analysis allowed for the identification of several carotenoid ester species. According to UHPLC-DAD, the sum of carotenoids yielded was 983.4 ± 26.3 mg/kg DW, while the concentration of the phenolic compounds was 9.33 ± 0.01 mg GAE/g dry fruit. The extract exhibited antioxidant properties by scavenging DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothioazolin-6-sulfonic acid)) radicals, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). It also demonstrated cholinesterase enzyme inhibitor capacities (AChE and BuChE—IC₅₀: 6.904 ± 0.42 and 18.38 ± 0.48 µg/mL, respectively). Docking calculations were additionally performed for a selection of compounds in the berries. The data obtained suggest that the hydroalcoholic extract of L. radicans possesses significant potential as a natural antioxidant and for the inhibition of enzymes, making it a promising candidate for the development of phytotherapeutic and nutraceutical products, especially as a supplement against chronic diseases. Full article

Amomyrtus luma (A. luma), a native Chilean tree species, produces fruits containing 1–3 non-edible seeds, which are typically discarded as waste during processing. This study evaluated the fatty acid composition and bioactive properties of A. luma seed oil obtained through maceration, ultrasound extraction, and Soxhlet extraction, using hexane as the extraction solvent. Fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) were quantified using gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC–FID), revealing that linoleic acid was the most abundant (79.79–80.09%), followed by oleic acid (8.89–9.18%) and palmitic acid (7.29–7.40%), with no significant differences (p < 0.05) among extraction methods. However, extraction conditions significantly influenced the concentration of bioactive compounds, including total phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, lycopene, carotenoids, and antioxidant capacity, as determined through DPPH and FRAP assays. A strong correlation was observed between polyphenol content and antioxidant activity, particularly in maceration and ultrasound extraction, whereas Soxhlet extraction favored tocopherols and carotenoids due to the thermal degradation of polyphenols. Soxhlet extraction yielded the highest oil recovery, while ultrasound extraction preserved the highest levels of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity. No antimicrobial activity was detected against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. These findings underscore the key role of extraction methods in determining the nutritional and functional quality of A. luma seed oil. Given its high unsaturated fatty acid content and bioactive potential, A. luma seed oil represents a promising ingredient for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications, while contributing to waste valorization and sustainable resource utilization. Full article

Background/Objectives: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that poses a significant gastroenterological challenge. Methods: This study investigates the protective effects of garlic peel extract (GPE) in a rat model of acetic acid (AA)-induced colitis. Rats received oral GPE (100 mg/kg) for 14 days prior to AA administration, and this continued for 14 days post-induction. Results: GC-MS analysis of GPE identified several key phytochemicals, primarily methyl esters of fatty acids (62.47%), fatty acids (10.36%), fatty acid derivatives (6.75%), and vitamins (4.86%) as the major constituents. Other notable compounds included steroids, natural alcohols, organosulfur compounds, fatty aldehydes, carotenoids, sugars, and glucosinolates. GPE treatment significantly improved body weight and colon length. Biochemical analysis showed that GPE downregulated the levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-6, IL-17, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), compared to the colitis (AA) group. Additionally, GPE reduced the oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers, including myeloperoxidase (MPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as caspase-3, a marker for apoptosis. Furthermore, GPE treatment resulted in enhanced activities of the enzymatic antioxidants catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), along with increased levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. These findings were supported by histological evidence. Conclusions: Collectively, GPE holds promise as a therapeutic strategy for UC, owing to its natural bioactive compounds and their potential synergistic anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects. Full article

Skin aging is a complex process influenced by several factors, including UV exposure, environmental stressors, and lifestyle choices. The demand for effective, natural skincare products has driven research into plant-based oils rich in bioactive compounds. Rosehip oil has garnered attention for its high content of carotenoids, phenolics, and antioxidants, which are known for their anti-aging, photoprotective, and skin-rejuvenating properties. Despite the growing interest in rosehip oil, limited studies have investigated its efficacy on human skin using advanced imaging technologies. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the efficacy of cold-pressed Rosa canina seed oil on facial skin characteristics, specifically wrinkles, ultraviolet (UV) spot reduction, and erythema mitigation, using imaging technologies (the VISIA analysis system). Seed oil pressed from R. canina collected from the Băișoara area of Cluj County has been selected for this study due to its high carotenoid, phenolic, and antioxidant contents. The oil has also been analyzed for the content of individual carotenoids (i.e., lutein, lycopene, β Carotene, and zeaxanthin) using HPLC-DAD (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography—Diode Array Detector), along with lutein and zeaxanthin esters and diesters. After the preliminary screening of multiple Rosa species for carotenoid, phenolic, and antioxidant contents, the R. canina sample with the highest therapeutic potential was selected. A cohort of 27 volunteers (aged 30–65) underwent a five-week treatment protocol, wherein three drops of the selected rosehip oil were topically applied to the face daily. The VISIA imaging was conducted before and after the treatment to evaluate changes in skin parameters, including the wrinkle depth, UV-induced spots, porphyrins, and texture. Regarding the bioactivities, rosehip oil showed a significant total carotenoids content (28.398 μg/mL), with the highest levels in the case of the β-carotene (4.49 μg/mL), lutein (4.33 μg/mL), and zexanthin (10.88 μg/mL) contents. Results indicated a significant reduction in mean wrinkle scores across several age groups, with notable improvements in individuals with deeper baseline wrinkles. UV spots also showed visible declines, suggesting ideal photoprotective and anti-pigmentary effects attributable to the oil’s high vitamin A and carotenoid content. Porphyrin levels, often correlated with bacterial activity, decreased in most subjects, hinting at an additional antimicrobial or microbiome-modulatory property. However, skin responses varied, possibly due to individual differences in skin sensitivity, environmental factors, or compliance with sun protection. Overall, the topical application of R. canina oil appeared to improve the facial skin quality, reduce the appearance of age-related markers, and support skin health. These findings reinforce the potential use of rosehip oil in anti-aging skincare formulations. Further long-term, large-scale studies are warranted to refine dosing regimens, investigate mechanisms of action, and explore synergistic effects with other bioactive compounds. Full article

The loengo (Anisophyllea boehmii Engl.) is a wild fruit originating from the Miombo forest. It is very popular in Angola and has great potential for local development. However, as it has received little attention from researchers, its composition is not well known. Against this backdrop, the proposed study aimed to characterize different samples of the fruit in order to better assess its nutritional and organoleptic value. First, a field survey was conducted to gather information on the harvesting period, prices, and consumption patterns. Then, four samples of several kilograms of fruit each were collected from three different areas in 2 consecutive years. The proximate composition and the polyphenolic, carotenoid, and aroma compound profiles of their pulp were compared. The study showed that the fruit is widely consumed for 8 months of the year. It is difficult to keep fresh and is often processed into drinks. The pulp was found to be rich in sugars, with a pH of around 3.2. Loengo is a good source of fiber, minerals, polyphenols (such as cyanidin 3-O-glucoside and flavonol glycosides), and carotenoids (such as β-cryptoxanthin and β-carotene). Its aroma is associated with around 50 aroma compounds, primarily esters. This fruit therefore has interesting nutritional quality and technological potential. Certain compositional elements correlated with the area and the year of harvest. Further study of the processing of the fruit into pasteurized beverages is warranted for local added value. Full article

Retinol and retinol-related compounds are essential for human health, particularly in cellular protection, skin health, and the management of medical conditions. Retinol—a vital form of vitamin A—is obtained through the diet as preformed vitamin A or provitamin A carotenoids, retinyl esters. These compounds are indispensable for vision, immune function, and skin health. While retinoic acid has important known biological roles, its presence is limited in the body as it is rapidly metabolized rather than stored, emphasizing the need for sufficient dietary intake. This paper is divided into chapters that highlight important aspects of retinol and retinoid-related compounds, such as their sufficient intake through food sources. The nutritional value of carotenoids is influenced by the balance between trans- and cis-isomers in food, with food processing affecting their bioactivity. Next, it is metabolism in the digestive tract. The bioavailability and efficacy of retinoids are further influenced by gut microbiota, which can modulate immune function and the expression of the genes involved in retinoid metabolism. A third important property greatly influencing their biological function is their structure, predisposing them to certain biological activities. Both retinoids and carotenoids exert key antioxidant functions by protecting cells from oxidative damage, quenching singlet oxygen, and stabilizing free radicals. However, the oxidation of carotenoids can result in various metabolites, such as epoxides and hydroxyketones, that further create a higher demand for antioxidant defenses. Additionally, carotenoids interact with lipoxygenases (LOXs), thus influencing oxidative stress, although this interaction may reduce their antioxidant efficacy. First- and second-generation retinoids regulate gene expression related to skin cell function and oncological diseases. Despite their therapeutic benefits, long-term use carries risks, such as teratogenicity. Ongoing research should aim to enhance the safety, precision, and effectiveness of retinoid therapies, expanding their therapeutic potential. Full article