Abstract
Pechiche fruits (Vitex cymosa Berteo ex Speng) from Ecuador were studied to determine their phenolic acid profile, nutrient minerals and capacity to protect primary human dermal fibroblasts (HDFa) against oxidative-induced damage. Up to five phenolic acids were identified, with homovanillic acid as the main one. Vitamin C, β-carotene and lutein were also determined. Phosphorus and potassium were the main macrominerals, while iron was the principal micromineral. HDFa were preincubated with a crude pechiche extract (PCext) and then subjected to oxidative stress. The activity of five antioxidant enzymes, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ATP levels and lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation were used as markers of oxidative damage. Preincubation with PCext for 24 h allowed for the significant reduction of intracellular ROS levels, improved the intracellular ATP levels and protected lipids and proteins against oxidative damage (p < 0.05). Additionally, preincubation with PCext was also able to significantly (p < 0.05) improve the activity of the antioxidant enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione transferase, compared to the stressed group without pretreatment. The results obtained in this study suggest the potential of pechiche as a source of bioactive compounds, as well as its beneficial effect against oxidative stress.
Highlights
Several studies provide scientific evidence that points to the relationship between the occurrence of chronic noncommunicable diseases and the imbalance between levels of free radicals species and endogenous antioxidant defenses [1]
Studies on frequently consumed fruits are abundant, far fewer reports exist on the phenolic contents of nontraditional fruits and their biological properties
We evaluated the chemical composition and the protective effects against oxidative damage in vitro of the nontraditional pechiche fruit
Summary
Several studies provide scientific evidence that points to the relationship between the occurrence of chronic noncommunicable diseases and the imbalance between levels of free radicals species (mainly reactive oxygen species or ROS) and endogenous antioxidant defenses [1]. Several studies have shown that populations with food patterns rich in fruit and vegetables suffer fewer incidences of chronic degenerative diseases related to aging and oxidative stress [2,3]. In this sense, knowledge of bioactive compounds’ contribution to local diets could allow for a better understanding of these diets’ potential in the prevention of these diseases.
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