Search Results (51)

Acorns (Quercus spp.) have re-emerged as a sustainable, underutilized food resource, and their lipid fraction has attracted growing scientific interest because of its distinctive composition and technological potential. Acorn lipids typically represent 5–12% of acorn dry weight, ranging from 0.75% (Q. vulcanica) to over 17% (Q. rubra), and are dominated by unsaturated fatty acids, mainly oleic acid (up to ~70% of total fatty acids) and, to a lesser extent, linoleic acid, alongside minor bioactive compounds such as tocopherols (31.60–1486 mg/kg oil), phytosterols (2449–8797.92 mg/kg oil), carotenoids (β-carotene: 473–1421 mg/kg DM), and long-chain aliphatic alcohols (2198.81–2248.87 mg/kg oil) associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemic, and cardioprotective effects. Despite their high degree of unsaturation, acorn oils maintain good oxidative stability during up to 180 days of storage under dark conditions at room temperature, partly due to these endogenous antioxidants, and their lipids participate in starch–lipid interactions that influence starch digestibility, glycemic response, and the functional properties of acorn-based foods, including bakery, gluten-free, and pasta products. Based on a comprehensive literature search of the Web of Science database through June 2026, this review provides a comprehensive synthesis of acorn lipids. Critical analysis shows that most evidence derives from whole acorn flour rather than isolated lipids, that reporting units remain inconsistent across studies, and that dedicated intervention trials using acorn oil are lacking—gaps that should guide future research. This review serves as a critical bridge between botanical lipidomics and food engineering, providing a framework for the standardized valorization of Quercus species in the global transition to sustainable, plant-based functional ingredients. Full article

Background/Objectives: Plant secondary metabolites remain an invaluable source of novel antibacterial phytochemicals in the fight against antibiotic resistance. The medicinal plant Solidago gigantea Ait. (giant goldenrod) is an invasive species in Europe and represents an abundant, yet largely underexplored reservoir of such bioactive compounds. The primary aim of this study was to perform a non-targeted, effect-directed screening, detection, bioassay-guided isolation, structure elucidation, and microbiological assessment of the antibacterial constituents present in the inflorescences of S. gigantea. Methods: Thin-layer chromatography coupled with direct bioautography (TLC–DB) assay using Bacillus subtilis was utilized for the non-targeted, effect-directed analysis of antibacterial components and the evaluation of in vitro antibacterial activity. Successive preparative flash column chromatography, semi-preparative reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC), and thin-layer chromatography–mass spectrometry (TLC–MS) were employed for the bioassay-guided fractionation and isolation. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated using one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HRMS/MS). The presence of known antibacterial compounds was established via reversed-phase ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (RP-UHPLC–HR-ESI-MS/MS). Results: Two previously undescribed cis-clerodane diterpenoids, the isomeric solidagoic acid L (1) and solidagoic acid M (2), were isolated, identified, and characterized from the ethyl acetate extract of S. gigantea inflorescences. Both compounds exhibited in vitro antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive B. subtilis, confirmed via TLC–DB. In addition, 23 known compounds with antibacterial activity, including 17 clerodane diterpenes, four hydroxylated polyunsaturated fatty acids, and two unsaturated monoacylglycerols, were detected. All of these are reported for the first time in the inflorescences of this plant species. Conclusions: With further optimization, the isolated compounds may represent promising leads for antibacterial drug development. Our findings demonstrate the potential of non-targeted, bioassay-guided approaches for the discovery of novel plant-derived bioactive natural products. Full article

Argan tree (Argania spinosa L. Skeels), an endemic Moroccan species, is widely recognized for its traditional medicinal and nutritional uses. It has long been employed to promote skin and cardiovascular health, regulate blood glucose levels, and support overall wellbeing. Traditionally, different parts of the argan tree, including argan oil, leaves, and other plant-derived preparations, have been used to manage various health conditions such as diabetes, gastritis, gastric ulcers, rheumatism, joint and muscle pain, skin disorders including acne, eczema, and inflammation, as well as wound healing and dental problems. This narrative critical review compiles and evaluates current knowledge on the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of argan tree to support its evidence-based application. Relevant literature was collected from major English and French scientific databases, focusing on studies addressing the plant and its principal bioactive constituents. Ethnobotanical data indicate the extensive use of argan oil, leaves, and other plant parts in traditional remedies and dietary practices. Phytochemical investigations reveal a rich composition dominated by unsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols, phytosterols, and polyphenolic compounds. Experimental studies highlight a broad spectrum of biological activities, including antioxidant, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and anti-obesity effects, along with emerging applications in nanotechnology. Toxicological findings generally suggest low toxicity and good safety profiles under tested conditions. Overall, A. spinosa exhibits substantial ethnopharmacological relevance and diverse bioactivities, supporting its continued exploration for nutraceutical and therapeutic applications. Full article

The aim of the current study is to determine the nutritional value and the content of the biologically active components in kidney vetch (Anthyllis vulneraria L.). It is established that the dry biomass contains substantial amounts of proteins and carbohydrates, primarily dietary fiber, while the total oil content is relatively low (below 3.0%). The isolated glyceride oil represents the complete lipid fraction derived from all plant parts (leaves, stems, and flowers). The glyceride oil of A. vulneraria is notable for its high levels of biologically active constituents, particularly sterols, tocopherols, and phospholipids. Palmitic (30.3%) and oleic (11.5%) acids dominate the fatty acid profile; β-sitosterol, α-tocotrienol, and α-tocopherol are the major sterol and tocopherol components, respectively. On the other hand, phosphatidylinositol, together with phosphatidic acids, prevails within the phospholipid fraction. Based on the obtained fatty acid composition, several important ratios were calculated—unsaturated fatty acids (UFA)/saturated fatty acids (SFA), saturated fatty acids/monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA)/saturated fatty acids, and n-6/n-3, providing an integrated assessment of the lipid quality. The PUFA/SFA value (0.24) suggests relatively high oxidative stability. In contrast, the n-6/n-3 ratio (0.86) shows a balanced distribution of essential fatty acids, which is associated with favorable nutritional properties. Full article

The growing demand for sustainable alternative proteins has intensified interest in fungal mycelia as a nutrient-dense biomass for food applications. This study compared Pleurotus ostreatus fruiting bodies with mycelia grown in liquid state on amaranth seed- and Bambara groundnut-based media, evaluating aroma-active volatiles and amino acid composition. Across 52 identified volatiles, C8 oxylipin-derived compounds dominated all matrices, with exceptionally high odour activity values (OAVs) for 1-octen-3-one (~4.1 × 10³), 3-octanone (~1.5 × 10³), 1-octen-3-ol (~8.3 × 10²) and 3-octanol (~5.3 × 10²). Amaranth-grown mycelia showed intensified mushroom/green/fatty notes due to elevated C8 ketones and unsaturated aldehydes, whereas Bambara-grown mycelia exhibited reduced C8 prominence and stronger malty, nutty and fermented nuances driven by Ehrlich-pathway aldehydes (e.g., 3-methylbutanal ~2.0 × 10³), with floral contributions from linalool (~3.8 × 10²). Mycelial protein contents ranged from 35.8 to 36.1 g/100 g (amaranth) and up to 38.2 g/100 g (Bambara), compared with 39.5 g/100 g in the fruiting body. Amino acid scores (AAS) identified cystine + methionine as limiting; mycelia exhibited higher AAS, with more indispensable amino acids exceeding reference requirements. Elevated glutamic and aspartic acids underscore the umami potential of the mycelial biomass. Overall, these plant-based substrates can strategically modulate both flavour chemistry and amino acid balance in P. ostreatus mycelia, supporting their use as nutritionally relevant, flavour-active ingredients in alternative protein and hybrid food systems. Full article

The jalapeño pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a crop of great economic and nutritional importance worldwide; however, increasing yield and quality under conditions of reduced synthetic inputs remains a significant challenge, mainly due to restrictions in plant nutrition and stress response capacity; in this context, plant-based biostimulants, such as Ricinus communis extracts, are of particular interest due to their potential to modulate plant metabolism, promote growth, and favor the accumulation of bioactive compounds. In this study, the effect of a foliar-applied biostimulant derived from a methanolic extract of Ricinus communis L. on the physiological, agronomic, and biochemical parameters of jalapeño peppers was evaluated under open field conditions. A randomized complete design with five treatments was established: three extract concentrations (T50: 50 mg L⁻¹, T75: 75 mg L⁻¹, and T100: 100 mg L⁻¹), a commercial biostimulant (Pepton 85/16 ^®), and an absolute control. Significant differences (α ≤ 0.05) were observed between treatments T50, T75, and T100 with the application of castor bean and the absolute control in stem diameter, fruit number, yield, and polar and equatorial fruit diameter, as well as phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity (ABTS and DPPH). The application of R. communis extract (T50, T75, and T100) significantly improved plant performance compared to the control, particularly in yield (up to 270%), fruit number (73%), shoot biomass (up to 38%), and root development (up to 32%). Furthermore, increases in chlorophyll content and in antioxidant-related compounds were observed, including phenols, flavonoids, ABTS, and DPPH (up to 17%). Spearman correlation analysis revealed strong associations between structural and metabolic variables, highlighting the relationship between stem diameter, fruit traits, and bioactive compound accumulation, as well as the link between chlorophyll content and reproductive performance. The ¹H NMR analysis indicated the presence of secondary metabolites such as ricin, unsaturated fatty acids, and phenolic compounds; however, their isolation and relationship with the biostimulant activity of the extract require further specific studies. Overall, foliar application of R. communis extract improved the growth, productivity, and biochemical attributes of jalapeño pepper, highlighting its potential as a sustainable alternative for crop management. Full article

Weed control is mainly carried out using synthetic herbicides, which represent 62.6% of the total pesticides sold. However, some plants produce allelochemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants, and these substances can be isolated and used as natural herbicides. This study aimed to evaluate the allelopathic, cytotoxic, genotoxic, and antigenotoxic potential of the ethanol extract (EE), hexane (HEX), dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EA) and hydroethanol (HE) fractions obtained from Tecoma stans flowers. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was used to characterize the compounds present in the samples. The allelopathic activity was tested using Allium cepa and Lactuca sativa seeds, and the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and antigenotoxicity were evaluated using A. cepa seeds. The saturated and unsaturated fatty acids ω-3 and ω-6, terpenes, flavonoids, and phenolic acids with coumaroyl or glycosyl derivatives were characterized in the samples. The HEX and DCM fractions significantly inhibited germination and root growth, effects associated with fatty acids and phenolic compounds. The EA fraction exhibits genotoxic potential at higher concentrations tested. The extract and fractions reduced the genotoxicity induced by glyphosate and atrazine, reversing chromosomal abnormalities. These results demonstrate the possible use of the extract and fractions as natural sources of allelochemicals, but safe dosage validation is required. Full article

Garcinia kola is an emblematic tree used in traditional medicine in many regions in Africa. In particular, its nuts are commonly used for the management of various diseases. However, to the best of our knowledge, G. kola nuts have never been investigated as potential sources of active ingredients in dermocosmetics. In this paper, nuts from G. kola were investigated to shed light on the extraction, purification and characterization of three components with potential dermocosmetic applications. The nuts were subjected to extraction with different solvents, including cyclohexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and methanol. Each extract was purified by column chromatography on silica gel. Pure compounds were characterized by NMR and mass spectrometry and comparison with reported literature data. Unsaturated fatty acids were found in the cyclohexane and dichloromethane extract, garcinoic acid (a vitamin E derivative) in the dichloromethane extract, and the biflavanone GB1 in the methanol extract. The presence of unsaturated fatty acids, garcinoic acid, and biflavanone in the nuts of G. kola as dominant compounds suggests that this plant material holds potential to be used for the development of active compounds for skin care and well-being. Full article

The production of microbial lipids through single-cell oil (SCO) technologies has gained increasing attention as a sustainable alternative source of lipids for industrial applications. This development is driven by the limitations of plant-based oils, particularly their competition with food production and demand for arable land. Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosus has been recognized as one of the most promising oleaginous microorganisms for efficient SCO production. To improve sustainability and economic viability, it is vital to understand the underlying metabolic mechanism of SCO production as well as needs and limitations in bioprocess engineering for the efficient utilization of carbon sources derived from diverse agricultural and industrial side streams. This review focuses on recent studies exploring the potential of SCO production through C. oleaginosus in a bioprocess context through the application of low-cost agro-industrial by-products as alternative carbon sources aiming to supply lipid raw materials for various industrial applications. C. oleaginosus can grow on different agro-industrial waste-derived substrates, including lignocellulosic biomass hydrolysates, biodiesel production process side streams, chitin-based by-products, cheese whey permeates, fungal biomass hydrolysates and algal biomass hydrolysates. These substrates contain various carbon sources, such as glucose, galactose, mannose, xylose, lactose, N-acetyl-glucosamine and glycerol, facilitating efficient SCO production. Additionally, the specific composition of SCO sourced from C. oleaginosus, including the presence of functional compounds like squalene and prevalent long-chain unsaturated fatty acids in its fatty acid profile, make it an ideal option to be used as a raw material in cosmetics, biofuel and food products. This comprehensive overview aims to shed light on the potential of C. oleaginosus in leveraging carbon source alternatives for sustainable SCO production for multifaceted, industrial applications of SCO. Full article

Cottonseeds, rich in high-quality protein and fatty acids, represent a vital plant-derived feedstuff and edible oil resource. To systematically investigate genetic variation patterns in nutritional quality and screen superior germplasm, this study analyzed 26 nutritional quality traits and 8 fiber traits across 259 upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) accessions using multivariate statistical approaches. Results revealed significant genetic diversity in cottonseed nutritional profiles, with coefficients of variation ranging from 3.42% to 26.37%. Moreover, with advancements in breeding periods, the contents of protein, amino acids, and the proportion of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) increased, while oil content and C16:0 levels decreased. Correlation analyses identified significant positive associations (p < 0.05) between proteins, amino acids, UFAs, and most fiber traits, except for seed index (SI), fiber micronaire (FM), and fiber elongation (FE). Through a principal component analysis–fuzzy membership function (PCA-FMF) model, 13 elite accessions (F > 0.75) with high protein content, high UFA proportion, and excellent fiber quality were identified. These findings provide both data-driven foundations and practical germplasm resources for value-added utilization of cottonseed and coordinated breeding for dual-quality traits of nutrition and fiber. Full article

Plant-based yogurts are increasingly recognized as sustainable and health-conscious alternatives to dairy-based products, driven by environmental, ethical, and nutritional motivations. Pistachio milk, derived from an efficient and resilient crop, emerges as a promising raw material for yogurt production, offering unique sensory qualities and a dense nutritional profile. Rich in unsaturated fatty acids, bioactive compounds, and essential nutrients, pistachios are ideal for fermentation with lactic acid bacteria (LAB). In this study, a novel pistachio-based yogurt analog (PBYA) was developed using lactic acid fermentation, with a yogurt commercial starter, of pistachio milk. The production process was optimized to create an additive-free, clean-label formulation without the use of stabilizers or thickeners. The physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties of the PBYA were evaluated over refrigerated storage. The final product exhibited high levels of protein (5.6%), fat (5.4–6.8%), and total solids (20.5–21.4%), along with desirable texture and flavor characteristics. Notably, PBYA presented significantly higher concentrations of total free amino acids (754 mg/L) compared to commercial soy (557 mg/L) and cow’s milk yogurts (390 mg/L), particularly in essential amino acids such as lysine, methionine, and tryptophan. This enhanced free amino acid profile contributes to the product’s functional and nutritional value. Sensory analysis revealed good acceptance of the product, with improvements in viscosity and firmness over time, likely due to microbial exopolysaccharide production. Overall, the findings highlight the feasibility and commercial potential of PBYA as a clean-label, plant-based fermented product that meets current consumer demands for sustainability, nutrition, and sensory quality. Full article

Two solvents, n-hexane and ethyl acetate, were employed to extract oil from Asphodelus tenuifolius Cav. seeds using the Soxhlet extraction technique. The process was optimized using Central Composite Design (CCD) and Response Surface Methodology (RSM). ANOVA and a second-order polynomial equation were applied to evaluate the effects of key operational factors, including extraction time (20–60 min) and solvent-to-solid ratio (0.2–0.6 g/mL), on oil yield. The physicochemical properties, fatty acid composition, and functional groups of the extracted oil were analyzed. While both solvents influenced oil yield and quality, the fatty acid composition remained consistent, with unsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, identified as the main components. Under optimized conditions, the highest oil yields were 22% with n-hexane and 19.91% with ethyl acetate. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of ester groups, suggesting potential applications in biodiesel production. These findings offer valuable insights for producing oils rich in unsaturated fatty acids for food, cosmetic and renewable energy industries. These findings pave the way for further advancements in industrial applications by promoting the sustainable use of plant-derived oils. Full article

This article presents a review of several non-exclusive pathways for the sequestration of soil organic carbon, which can be classified into two large classical groups: the modification of plant and microbial macromolecules and the abiotic and microbial neoformation of humic substances. Classical studies have established a causal relationship between aromatic structures and the stability of soil humus (traditional hypotheses regarding lignin and aromatic microbial metabolites as primary precursors for soil organic matter). However, further evidence has emerged that underscores the significance of humification mechanisms based solely on aliphatics. The precursors may be carbohydrates, which may be transformed by the effects of fire or catalytic dehydration reactions in soil. Furthermore, humic-type structures may be formed through the condensation of unsaturated fatty acids or the alteration of aliphatic biomacromolecules, such as cutins, suberins, and non-hydrolysable plant polyesters. In addition to the intrinsic value of understanding the potential for carbon sequestration in diverse soil types, biogeochemical models of the carbon cycle necessitate the assessment of the total quantity, nature, provenance, and resilience of the sequestered organic matter. This emphasises the necessity of applying specific techniques to gain insights into their molecular structures. The application of appropriate analytical techniques to soil organic matter, including sequential chemolysis or thermal degradation combined with isotopic analysis and high-resolution mass spectrometry, derivative spectroscopy (visible and infrared), or ¹³C magnetic resonance after selective degradation, enables the simultaneous assessment of the concurrent biophysicochemical stabilisation mechanisms of C in soils. Full article

Background-Objectives: Chronic diseases linked to inflammation, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer, continue to pose major public health challenges due to their high mortality rates. There is growing interest in natural bioactive compounds, particularly those derived from plants, as potential therapeutic or preventive agents due to their low toxicity profiles. This study aimed to explore two freshwater plants—Nelumbo nucifera (Indian lotus) and Lemna sp.—as potential sources of bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic properties. While N. nucifera has established but incompletely characterized biofunctional properties, Lemna sp. remains largely unexplored in this context. Methods: Amphiphilic extracts from both plant species were analyzed for phenolic and lipid constituents, including unsaturated fatty acids, polar lipids, and carotenoids. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic activities were assessed via platelet aggregation assays using PAF and ADP agonists. Structural characterization was performed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and liquid chromatography–mass spectroscopy (LC-MS) to support structure–activity relationship (SAR) analysis. Results: Extracts, particularly from Lemna sp., showed potent antiplatelet activity against PAF and ADP. LC-MS revealed the presence of polar lipids rich in monounsaturated and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, with a favorable omega-6/omega-3 ratio, especially in Lemna sp., correlating with strong anti-inflammatory potential. High levels of total phenolics and carotenoids were observed, aligning with substantial antioxidant capacity in both species. Conclusions: These findings suggest that N. nucifera and Lemna sp. are promising sources of bioactive compounds with potential applications in functional foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals targeting inflammation- and thrombosis-related chronic diseases. Further studies are warranted to confirm their safety and efficacy. Full article

Oxidative stress and its relation to the onset of several chronic diseases have been increasingly highlighted in recent years. In parallel, there has been an increasing interest in the antioxidant properties of phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are products of plant secondary metabolism, including structural polysaccharides, unsaturated fatty acids, pigments (chlorophylls, carotenoids, and anthocyanins), or phenolic compounds. Phytochemicals can be obtained from lower and higher plants, their fruits, and even from macro- or microalgae. Their diverse structural features are linked to different beneficial effects through various molecular mechanisms, contributing to disease prevention. Beyond antioxidant activity, many phytochemicals also display anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, and neuroprotective effects, which can be intertwined. Beyond these, other natural antioxidants can also be obtained from animal, fungal, and bacterial sources. Thus, a wide range of antioxidants have the potential to be used as nutraceuticals with chemopreventive effects on the onset of various diseases related to antioxidant stress. Given their enormous structural and sourcing diversity, the present work provides an updated insight into the therapeutic and preventive potential of plant-derived antioxidants and nutraceuticals. Full article