Search Results (334)

The potential of a protein to cause an allergic reaction is often assessed using a variety of computational techniques. Leveraging advances in high-throughput protein sequence data coupled with in silico or computational methods can be used to systematically analyze large proteomes for allergenic potential. Despite mango’s widespread consumption and growing clinical reports of hypersensitivity, the full extent of their allergenicity is yet unknown. In this study, for the first time, we conducted a genome-wide in silico analysis by analyzing a total of 54,010 protein sequences to identify the complete spectrum of potential mango allergens. These proteins were analyzed using various bioinformatics tools to predict their allergenic potential based on sequence similarity, structural features, and known allergen databases. In addition to the known mango allergens, including Man i 1, Man i 2, and Man i 3, our findings demonstrated that several isoforms of cysteine protease, non-specific lipid-transfer protein (LTP), legumin B-like, 11S globulin, vicilin, thaumatin-like protein, and ervatamin-B family proteins exhibited strong allergenic potential, with >80% 3D epitope identity, >70% linear 80 aa window identity, and matching with >80 known allergens. Thus, a genome-wide in silico study provided a comprehensive profile of the possible mango allergome, which could help identify the low-allergen-containing mango cultivars and aid in the development of accurate assays for variety-specific allergic reactions. Full article

Mango is highly sensitive to heat stress, which directly affects the yield and quality. The extreme heat waves of 2024, with temperatures reaching 41–47 °C over 25 days, caused significant impacts on sensitive cultivars. The impact of heat waves on ten commercial cultivars from subtropical regions viz.,‘Dashehari’, ‘Langra’, ‘Chausa’, ‘Bombay Green’, ‘Himsagar’, ‘Amrapali’, ‘Mallika’, ‘Sharda Bhog’, ‘Kesar’, and ‘Rataul’, and thirteen selected elite hybrids H-4208, H-3680, H-4505, H-3833, H-4504, H-1739, H-3623, H-1084, H-4264, HS-01, H-949, H-4065, and H-2805, is reported. The predominant effects that were observed include the following: burning symptoms or blackened tips, surrounded by a yellow halo, with premature ripening in affected parts and, in severe cases, tissue mummification. Among commercial cultivars, viz., ‘Amrapali’ (25%), ‘Mallika’ (30%), ‘Langra’ (30%), ‘Dashehari’ (50%), and ‘Himsagar’ and ‘Bombay Green’ had severe impacts, with ~80% of fruits being affected, followed by ‘Sharda Bhog’. In contrast, mid-maturing cultivars like ‘Kesar’, ‘Rataul’, and late-maturing elite hybrids, which were immature during the stress period, showed no symptoms, indicating they are tolerant. Biochemical analyses revealed significantly elevated total soluble solids (TSS > 25 °B) in affected areas of sensitive genotypes compared to non-affected tissues and tolerant genotypes. Aroma profiling indicated variations in compounds such as caryophyllene and humulene between affected and unaffected parts. The study envisages that the phenological maturity scales are indicators for the selection of climate-resilient mango varieties/hybrids and shows potential for future breeding programs. Full article

B-box (BBX) transcription factors are critical regulators of light-mediated anthocyanin biosynthesis, influencing peel coloration in plants. To explore their role in red mango cultivars, we identified 32 BBX genes (MiBBX1–MiBBX32) in the mango (Mangifera indica L.) genome using a genome-wide analysis. Phylogenetic and structural analyses classified these genes into five subfamilies based on conserved domains. A collinearity analysis revealed segmental duplication as the primary mechanism of MiBBX gene family expansion, with purifying selection shaping their evolution. A promoter analysis identified numerous light- and hormone-responsive cis-elements, indicating regulatory roles in the light and hormonal signaling pathways. Expression profiling in the ‘Sensation’ cultivar revealed organ-specific patterns, with several MiBBX genes showing higher expression in the peel than in the flesh. Many of these genes also consistently exhibited elevated expression in the peel of red-skinned cultivars (‘Sensation’ and ‘Guifei’) compared to yellow and green cultivars, suggesting their role in red peel pigmentation. Furthermore, postharvest light treatment of ‘Hongmang No. 6’ fruit significantly upregulated multiple MiBBX genes, suggesting their involvement in light-induced anthocyanin accumulation in red mango peel. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms governing light-regulated peel coloration in mango and establish a foundation for functional studies of MiBBX genes in fruit pigmentation. Full article

Since airborne microplastics (AMPs) are a recent and unexplored field of study, there are several unresolved issues regarding their effects on plants. The accumulating potential of AMPs and their effect on the biochemical parameters of ten different plant species in an Indian city environment were assessed. The four types of AMPs deposited in the phyllosphere—fragment (30.76%), film (28.95%), fiber (22.61%), and pellet (17.68%)—were examined using stereomicroscopy and fluorescence microscopy. The air pollution tolerance index (APTI) was determined, and other biochemical parameters such as proline, phenol, malondialdehyde, carotenoids, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase were also measured. The findings showed that in the case of polymers type, PE (30%) was more abundant than others, followed by PET (17%), PP (15%), PVC (13%), PVA (10%), PS (7%), ABS (5%), and PMMA (3%). Clerodendrum infortunatum L., Calotropis procera (Aiton) W.T. Aiton, and Mangifera indica L. all showed a strong APTI and also exhibited significantly higher amounts of AMP accumulation. Principal component analysis showed a stronger association between phyllospheric AMPs and biochemical parameters. Additionally, the correlation analysis revealed that the presence of accumulated AMPs may significantly influence the biochemical parameters of the plants. Thus, it can be concluded that the different plant species are uniquely specialized in AMP accumulation, which is significantly impacted by the plants’ APTI as well as other biochemical parameters. Full article

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a wide bandgap semiconductor of great scientific and technological interest due to its high exciton binding energy and outstanding structural and optical properties, making it an ideal material for applications in optoelectronics, sensors, and photocatalysis. This study presents the rapid synthesis of highly crystalline ZnO nanostructures using two alternative routes: (1) direct thermal decomposition of zinc acetate and (2) a physical-green route assisted by Mangifera indica extract. Both routes were subjected to identical calcination thermal conditions (400 °C for 2 h), allowing for an objective comparison of their effects on structural, vibrational, morphological, and optical characteristics. X-ray diffraction analyses confirmed the formation of a pure hexagonal wurtzite phase in both samples, highlighting a higher crystallinity index (91.6%) and a larger crystallite size (35 nm) in the sample synthesized using the physical-green route. Raman and FTIR spectra supported these findings, revealing greater structural order. Electron microscopy showed significant morphological differences, and UV-Vis analysis showed a red shift in the absorption peak, associated with a decrease in the optical bandgap (from 3.34 eV to 2.97 eV). These results demonstrate that the physical-green route promotes significant improvements in the structural and functional properties of ZnO, without requiring changes in processing temperature or the use of additional chemicals. Full article

The use of trees to revegetate urban areas contaminated by mining activity is a low-cost, low-maintenance technique, of which the success will depend on the plant species, planting methods, and geochemical processes at the soil-plant interface. This study analyzed the evolution of mineral composition in the rooting soil, tree, and herbaceous vegetation on soils contaminated by As, Cd, Cu, Co, Pb, and Zn. An in-situ experiment was carried out in Lubumbashi (South-eastern DR Congo) with six tree species (Acacia auriculiformis, Albizia lebbeck, Delonix regia, Leucaena leucocephala, Mangifera indica, and Syzygium guineense), in 0.187 m³ pits amended with municipal compost and limestone. After planting in the amended and unamended (control) pits, soil samples were taken for chemical analysis. Eighteen months after planting, a floristic inventory was carried out to assess the spontaneous colonization of herbaceous species. The results show an increase in metal concentrations in the rooting soil between 2019 and 2023 (Cu: 725 ± 136 to 6141 ± 1853 mg kg⁻¹; As: 16.2 ± 1.4 to 95 ± 28.5 mg kg⁻¹; Cd: 2.7 ± 1.3 to 8.7 ± 2.0 mg kg⁻¹; Co: 151 ± 36.3 to 182 ± 113 mg kg⁻¹; Zn: 558 ± 418 to 1098 ± 1037 mg kg⁻¹), with a stable pH and a decrease in nutrients (P, K, Ca, and Fe). The trees planted in the amended pits showed better height and diameter growth and greater survival than the controls, reaching average heights of 8 m and a DBH of up to 22 cm four years after planting. A total of 13 spontaneous herbaceous species were recorded, with an increased abundance during the second inventory. These results confirm the effectiveness of pit amendment for the rapid revegetation of urban soils polluted by trace metals. Full article

Local innovations regarding plant-derived spice and flavorant formulations and preparation techniques are mostly recorded nowhere and usually passed on generationally through word of mouth. This study aimed to inventory the utilization of plants and perceptions of novel indigenous food spicing and flavoring among the Vhavenḓa people in South Africa. This study adopted face-to-face interviews with 360 participants using semi-structured questionnaires. This study investigated a total of twenty-seven plant species used to spice-flavor novel indigenous Venḓa foods, including mukokoroshi meat stew, mopane worms, vegetables, homemade achar, eggs, samp meal, potatoes, and sweet potatoes. Based on the perceptions by participants from different age groups, indigenous foods spicing and favoring significantly improved food taste and nutrition (43.1%), providing medicinal benefits (33.3%) and cultural identity (23.6%). No study had ever reported the uses of Lannea edulis (Sond.) Engl., Mangifera indica L., Centella asiatica (L.) Urb., Warburgia salutaris (G.Bertol.) Chiov., Plectranthus fruticosus L′Hér., Hibiscus sabdariffa subsp. Cannabinus L., Oxalis semiloba subsp. semiloba, and Ziziphus mucronata subsp. mucronata and their preparational techniques for novel indigenous foods, spicing, and flavoring before, in South Africa, or elsewhere. The current study provided insights about spice and flavoring plants that could be used to develop alternative marketable commercial products. The findings of this study provide necessary baseline information for evaluating and profiling the nutritional content of spice-making and flavoring plants in the Vhembe Region. Full article

Mangiferin, a polyphenol derived from Mangifera indica, exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities, positioning it as a promising candidate for applications in medicine. Its potential as an alternative to antibiotics is especially significant in agriculture and medicine, addressing the global demand for non-traditional antibacterial agents. However, its poor water solubility and low bioavailability limit its therapeutic use. Polymeric matrices could be one of the potential approaches to solve these problems, enhancing mangiferin’s bioavailability. Each delivery system exhibits unique properties such as controlled release, prolonged action and organ-specific targeting, in an ideal case each directed to specific diseases and administration routes. While promising in vitro and in vivo results highlight their therapeutic potential, challenges remain in the optimization of the matrix formulations for precise applications. Further research is needed to develop these systems and confirm their efficacy in clinical practice. Full article

The SWEET gene family is a group of genes with important functions in plants that is mainly involved in the transport and metabolism of carbohydrate substances. In this study, 32 mango (Mangifera indica L.) SWEET genes were screened and identified at the whole-genome level through bioinformatics methods. A systematic predictive analysis was conducted on their physicochemical properties, homology relationships, phylogenetic relationships, chromosomal locations, genomic structures, promoter cis-acting elements, and transcription factor regulatory networks. Meanwhile, the transcription levels of mango SWEET genes in different varieties and at different fruit development stages were also analyzed to obtain information about their functions. These results showed that 32 mango SWEET genes were unevenly distributed on 12 chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis divided the SWEET proteins of mango, Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh., and Oryza sativa L. into four clades; in each clade, the mango SWEET proteins were more closely related to those of Arabidopsis. Four types of cis-acting elements were also found in the promoter regions of mango SWEET genes, including light-responsive elements, development-related elements, plant hormone-responsive elements, and stress-responsive elements. Interestingly, we found that the Misweet3 and Misweet10 genes showed strong expression in different mango varieties and at different fruit development stages, and they both belonged to the fourth Clade IV (G4) in the phylogenetic tree, indicating that they play a key role in the sugar accumulation process of mango. In this study, the upstream transcription factors of Misweet3, Misweet8, Misweet9, Misweet10, Misweet17, Misweet18, Misweet19, Misweet21, Misweet23, Misweet25, Misweet27, and Misweet31, those that had high expression levels in the transcriptome data, were predicted, and transcription factors such as ERF, NAC, WRKY, MYB, and C₂H₂ were screened. The results of this study provide a new way to further study the regulation of mango SWEET family genes on sugar accumulation, highlight their potential role in fruit quality improvement, and lay an important foundation for further study of mango SWEET function and enhance mango competitiveness in fruit market. Full article

Background/Objectives: Mango, which is known as the “King of Tropical Fruits”, is an evergreen plant belonging to the Anacardiaceae family. It belongs to the genus Mangifera, which comprises 69 species of plants found in tropical and subtropical regions, including India, Indonesia, the Malay Peninsula, Thailand, and South China. However, research on the structural information of complete chloroplast genomes of Mangifera is limited. Methods: The rapid advancement of high-throughput sequencing technology enables the acquisition of the entire chloroplast (cp) genome sequence, providing a molecular foundation for phylogenetic research. This work sequenced the chloroplast genomes of six Mangifera samples, performed a comparative analysis of the cp genomes, and investigated the evolutionary relationships within the Mangifera genus. Results: All six Mangifera samples showed a single circular molecule with a quadripartite structure, ranging from 157,604 bp to 158,889 bp in length. The number of RNA editing sites ranged from 60 to 61, with ndhB exhibiting the highest number of RNA editing sites across all species. Seven genes—namely, atpB, cemA, clpP, ndhD, petB, petD, and ycf15—exhibited a Ka/Ks value > 1, suggesting they may be under positive selection. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Mangifera siamensis showed a close relationship between Mangifera indica and Mangifera sylvatica. Conclusions: Our comprehensive analysis of the whole cp genomes of the five Mangifera species offers significant insights regarding their phylogenetic reconstruction. Moreover, it elucidates the evolutionary processes of the cp genome within the Mangifera genus. Full article

Mangifera indica L. by-products obtained by three extraction methods from three cultivars (Keitt, Sensation and Gomera-3) were tested for their antibacterial properties against 20 bacterial species. These species were selected based on their relevance to winemaking processes (Acetobacter, Gluconobacter and Gluconacetobacter), fermented meat products (Staphylococcus) and human diseases (Pseudomonas, Escherichia, Shigella and Klebsiella). All mango by-product extracts showed antimicrobial activity in agar diffusion and broth microdilution experiments. However, differences in antimicrobial activity against acetic acid bacteria were detected between the peel extracts obtained from the two extraction processes. Furthermore, a wide range of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) data were found; Staphylococcus spp. (10 species) showed MICs between 1.0–240 mgGAE/mL and Acetobacter spp. (4 species) showed MICs between 1.7 and 200 mgGAE/mL. The most sensitive bacteria belonged to the staphylococcal species (MIC: 1 mgGAE/mL) and the most resistant was Gluconacetobacter saccharivorans (MIC > 400 mgGAE/mL). In general, there was no significant correlation between the phenolic compounds identified and the MIC values. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) revealed that the mango extracts had a bacteriostatic effect. A simple and reliable method for the determination of MIC and MBC in microdilution assays with acetic acid bacteria was described. These results highlight the antibacterial properties of mango by-products against species associated with food spoilage microorganisms and human diseases. Full article

Pineapple (Ananas comosus L.), cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) and mango (Mangifera indica L.) are among the most cultivated plants in tropical and subtropical regions due to the high demand around the world. Following the harvesting and processing of pineapple, cashew and mango fruits, a huge amount of waste is generated, which is generally discarded into the environment, contributing to global pollution and water contamination. This study aims to propose alternative feeds for pigs by characterizing cashew, pineapple and mango fruit by-products through an in vitro two-step (gastro-intestinal and caecum) study to provide feeds not competing with humans and promoting eco-sustainable livestock. Ten by-products [i.e., pineapple peel and pomace; cashew nut testa, cashew (var. yellow) whole fruit and pomace; cashew (var. red) whole fruit and pomace; mango peel, kernel and testa] were sampled in Benin. The samples involved chemical analysis and an in vitro two-step digestion method (enzymatic + microbial digestibility). The results report a low dry matter (DM) content specifically in the pomace, peel and whole apple (13.0–27.2%), while higher lipids were observed for cashew nut testa and mango kernel (26.4 and 11.2% DM). The investigated by-products fall within the interval of referenced feeds for structural carbohydrates (NDF: 7.6–47.1% DM) and protein (6.21–51.2% DM), except mango by-products with a low content of protein (2.51–4.69% DM). The total dry matter digestibility, short-chain fatty acid and gas production were low for cashew by-products and stopped after 48 h of incubation. Pineapple pomace, cashew whole apple, pomace and testa can be considered as feedstuff in fattening pigs, presenting characteristics partly similar to beet pulp. Indeed, mango peel and kernel should be combined with a protein feed source to feed pigs. Presently, fruit by-products, such as those from cashew, pineapple and mango, are thrown into the environment, contributing to global warming and water pollution. These problems would be reduced by recycling these wastes in other fields, such as pig nutrition, creating a circular economy to provide feeds promoting eco-sustainable livestock. Indeed, in vivo studies are needed before proposing these by-products for pig diets. Full article

Litter and pruning biomass are integral to nutrient cycling in the plant–soil ecosystem, contributing significantly to organic matter formation and humus development through decomposition and nutrient mineralization, which ultimately influence soil fertility and health. However, the litterfall dynamics in mango orchards are not well understood, and its contribution to nutrient cycling has seldom been measured. This study aimed to estimate litterfall and pruning biomass in mango orchards and assess the nutrient contents of various biomass components. Litter and pruning biomass samples were collected from four commercial mango orchards planted with Kensington Pride (‘KP’) and ‘B74’ (‘Calypso^®’) cultivars in the Darwin and Katherine regions, using litter traps placed on the orchard floors. Samples were sorted (leaves, flowers, panicles, fruits, and branches) and analyzed for nutrient contents. Results showed that most biomass abscissions occurred between late June and August, spanning approximately 100 days involving floral induction phase, fruit set, and maturity. Leaves made up most of the abscised litter biomass, while branches were the primary component of pruning biomass. The overall ranking of biomass across both regions and orchards is as follows: leaves > branches > panicles > flowers > fruits. The carbon–nitrogen (C:N) ratio of litter pruning material ranged from 30 (flowers) to 139 (branches). On a hectare basis, litter and biomass inputs contained 1.2 t carbon (C), 21.2 kg nitrogen (N), 0.80 kg phosphorus (P), 4.9 kg potassium (K), 8.7 kg calcium (Ca), 2.0 kg magnesium (Mg), 1.1 kg sulfur (S), 15 g boron (B), 13.6 g copper (Cu), 99.3 g iron (Fe), 78.6 g manganese (Mn), and 28.6 g zinc (Zn). The results indicate that annual litterfall may contribute substantially to plant nutrient supply and soil health when incorporated into the soil to undergo decomposition. This study contributes to a better understanding of litter biomass, nutrient sources, and nutrient cycling in tropical mango production systems, offering insights that support accurate nutrient budgeting and help prevent over-fertilization. However, further research is needed to examine biomass accumulation under different pruning regimes, decomposition dynamics, microbial interactions, and broader ecological effects to understand litterfall’s role in promoting plant growth, enhancing soil health, and supporting sustainable mango production. Full article

The brewing sector is under increasing pressure to implement sustainable practices, particularly by integrating agro-industrial waste into its value chains. This study explores the potential of mango (Mangifera indica L.) residues as functional and sustainable ingredients within Brazil’s craft beer industry. A qualitative and exploratory methodology was employed, based on a literature review and political, economic, social, and technological (PEST) and strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analyses, to assess both the external and internal factors influencing the reuse of mango waste. The results highlight the environmental advantages and opportunities for value creation, especially in alignment with circular economy principles. Moreover, growing consumer interest in innovative and sustainable products presents an opportunity for market differentiation. Nonetheless, barriers such as limited infrastructure, cost-related challenges, regulatory constraints, and logistical limitations remain. By bridging sustainability, innovation, and waste minimization, this research offers strategic insights for stakeholders aiming to develop more resilient and responsible production chains. The valorization of mango waste contributes meaningfully to the Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDGs 8, 9, and 12. Full article

Background/Objectives: A mango (Mangifera indica) leaf extract (Zynamite^®), rich in the polyphenol mangiferin, has been demonstrated to modulate brain activity, boost cognitive function, and reduce mental fatigue. Research evidence supports that improving the solubility of this extract could significantly enhance its efficacy as an active ingredient. This study examined the effects of a soluble version of Zynamite^®, Zynamite^® S (Zyn-S), on cognitive function and mood in young adults at low doses. Methods: A total of 119 university students were enrolled in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either 100 mg, 150 mg, or placebo in a double-blind crossover design. Short- and long-term memory were evaluated using the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), executive functions with the Trail Making Test (TMT), processing speed with the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), and selective attention with the Stroop Color and Word Test. Additionally, mood was assessed using the Spanish short version of the Profile of Mood States (POMS). All these assessments were conducted before taking the product and at 30 min, 3 h, and 5 h post-intake. Results: The results demonstrated that participants who received Zynamite^® S experienced significant improvements in reduced tension, depression, and confusion, suggesting an enhancement in mental clarity and overall emotional well-being. Both interventions also improved processing speed and cognitive flexibility. However, no significant differences were observed in short- and long-term verbal memory. Conclusions: In summary, these findings support Zynamite^® S as a natural nootropic capable of acutely improving key cognitive functions and emotional balance at low doses in young adults, with sustained efficacy for at least five hours. Full article