Carotenoid Pigments Research Articles

Prediction of Pasta Colour Considering Traits Involved in Colour Expression of Durum Wheat Semolina

Colour plays an important role among the quality traits of durum wheat, attracting consumer attention for the pasta market. The traits involved in colour expression are affected by genotype, environment, and processing. In the present study, based on eighteen durum wheat genotypes grown in eight environments, the effects of different traits related to colour expression were evaluated. Carotenoid pigments, such as lutein and β-carotene content; yellow and brown indices; and lipoxygenase, peroxidase, and polyphenoloxidase activities were analysed in semolina. The effects of processing were evaluated by measuring both the content of carotenoid pigments and colorimetric indices in pasta. The genotype, the environment, and their interaction were significant for all traits, although with a strong prevalence of genotypic effects, except for the brown index. After processing, a decrease in carotenoid content and the yellow index (86.7% and 16.0%, respectively) was observed, while the brown index increased (8.2%). A multiple regression analysis was performed on semolina traits, and the yellow index emerged as the main predictor for pasta colour, strengthening this trait as a fast and reliable criterion of selection. A High-Performance Index tool was also used to identify the genotype and environment that better combine all traits, positively influencing colour expression. All this information can be used in durum wheat breeding programmes for the prediction of pasta colour.

Effects of supplementation of macular pigment carotenoids on ocular health: a Raman spectroscopic study of human blood serum of glaucoma patients.

Carotenoids are known for their antioxidant and vision protection roles, with dietary supplements often promoted for eye health. An initial trial, the European Nutrition in Glaucoma Management (ENIGMA), assessed macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and other ocular parameters before and after supplementing glaucoma patients with macular pigment (MP) carotenoids. The trial confirmed significant improvements in clinical ocular health. Blood, containing all major dietary carotenoids, serves as an efficient medium for in vivo analysis of carotenoids. Raman spectroscopy, an effective analytical tool, was used to measure the impact of supplementation on serum carotenoid levels and their correlation with MPOD and other ocular responses. Serum samples from baseline and 18-month supplemented participants were analysed. An inverse relationship was found between the percentage change in Raman intensity over the supplementation period and baseline Raman serum measurements, indicating greater relative benefits for people with low MPOD/serum carotenoids pre-supplementation. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) was employed to analyse the spectra after pre-processing, and the loadings reflected the carotenoid content and structural profile. MPOD results correlated at all eccentricities, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.62-0.92 and %Root mean squared error of <44%. Structural, functional, and perceptual parameters also showed good correlation with serum Raman measurements. The results support the ENIGMA trial conclusions, and suggest strategies for optimizing patient responses to supplementation based on baseline carotenoid levels. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy of serum carotenoids shows significant potential as a simple and reliable method for investigating macular pigment carotenoids and assessing patient health.

The Impact of Selenium on the Physiological Activity of Yeast Cells Saccharomyces cerevisiae ATCC 7090 and Rhodotorula glutinis CCY 20-2-26.

This study investigated the selenium-binding capacity of the biomass of two yeast strains, Saccharomyces cerevisiae American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) 7090 and Rhodotorula glutinis CCY 20-2-26. The studies carried out methods of bioaccumulation by yeast biomass. Inorganic selenium was added to the culture media as an aqueous solution of Na2SeO3 at concentrations ranging from 0 to 40 mg Se4+/L. The addition of selenium at concentrations >0.5 mg/L significantly reduced biomass yield compared with the control in the case of S. cerevisiae. A significant reduction in the biomass of R. glutinis was observed only at selenium doses >30 mg/L. The study found that for S. cerevisiae, cultivation should occur for 24 h in a medium with an initial selenium concentration of 20 mg/L to achieve the most efficient selenium accumulation by the yeast biomass. Under these conditions, the yeast could accumulate 4.27 mg Se4+/g. For the red yeast R. glutinis, optimal selenium binding conditions were achieved by cultivating for 48 h in a medium with an initial selenium ion concentration of 40 mg/L. This yeast strain was more resistant to high selenium doses, accumulating 7.53 mg Se4+/L at the highest tested dose (40 mg Se4+/L). Selenium supplementation of the medium from 20 mg Se4+/L and cultivation for 72 h caused significant changes in the morphology of S. cerevisiae cells (e.g., increased surface area compared with the control). Selenium doses of 20-40 mg/L after 48 h of cultivation significantly reduced the surface area compared with the control results for R. glutinis cells. Selenium significantly impacted carotenoid pigment production, with levels decreasing as the selenium concentration in the medium increased. Furthermore, selenium in the tested concentration range increased protein content in the cellular biomass but did not affect intracellular lipid production.

Rapid Determination of Crocin-I in Gardenia Fruits (Gardenia jasminoides Ellis) by Combining Spectral and Image Data Through Hyperspectral Imaging.

Crocin-I, a water-soluble carotenoid pigment, is an important coloring constituent in gardenia fruit. It has wide application in various industries such as food, medicine, chemical industry, and so on. So the content of crocin-I plays a key role in evaluating the quality of gardenia. We assessed crocin-I content in gardenia with a rapid, nondestructive, and convenient method. The data of gardenia samples were scanned under a portable visible-near-infrared (Vis-NIR) hyperspectral imaging (HSI) in the spectral range of 400-1000 nm. Afterward, the spectral data along with image-related information, encompassing color and texture, were extracted from the HSI. Based on a single information and its fusion at different fusion levels (low-level, traditional mid-level fusion, and an improved mid-level fusion), partial least squares regression (PLSR) prediction models were established and compared. The results demonstrated the superiority of data fusion, which ingeniously combined spectra and image data. Compared with individual information sources, the traditional mid-level fusion model showed a robust predictive ability. The correlation coefficient of the prediction set (Rp), the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP), and the ratios of performance to deviation (RPDP) of the model were 0.901, 0.962, and 2.262, respectively. This study highlights the effectiveness of the data fusion method, showcasing its capacity to significantly enhance the prediction accuracy of crocin-I content in gardenia through the integration of hyperspectral mapping data. The findings of this research are anticipated to serve as a valuable reference for predicting the active ingredients of other Chinese herbal medicines.

Decolorization and Bioelectricity Generation from Palm Oil Mill Effluent by a Photosynthetic Bacterial Consortium

&lt;p&gt;Palm oil mill effluent (POME) is the dark brown agricultural wastewater from palm oil extraction factories. It is difficult to decolorize using conventional methods. Melanoidin is a dark-colored polymer formed through the Maillard reaction which is the primary cause of the dark color in POME. This study investigated the potential of a photosynthetic bacterial consortium consisting of &lt;em&gt;Blastochloris sulfoviridis&lt;/em&gt; and &lt;em&gt;Lentimicrobium saccharophilum&lt;/em&gt; for POME treatment and bioenergy generation. The consortium effectively removed melanoidin content (68.89±0.84%) and color (60.87±1.22%) from POME without the addition of chemicals or culture medium. Additionally, a microbial fuel cell (MFC) integrated with the consortium generated apower output of up to 5.70±1.06 W m&lt;sup&gt;-3&lt;/sup&gt;. The degraded metabolites were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) after treatment. The results revealed that melanoidin was converted to 1-ethyl-2-methylbenzene, 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene, decamethylcyclopentasiloxane, dodecamethylcyclohexane, butylated hydroxytoluene, and stigmasta-3,5-diene. Following treatment, the cell pellet was recovered and analyzed for valuable by-products. Carotenoid and astaxanthin pigments were extracted with yields of 0.32±0.01 and 0.02±0.00 mg g&lt;sup&gt;-1&lt;/sup&gt;, respectively. These findings demonstrate the versatility of the photosynthetic bacterial consortium, which offers a sustainable solution for POME treatment while simultaneously POME decolorization and producing bioenergy and valuable compounds.&lt;/p&gt;

Extraction of Astaxanthin from Hyperproducing Haematococcus Pluvialis Using Different Oils

Astaxanthin is a high antioxidant which is red carotenoid pigment obtained from many microalgae species. It is an important preservative of the immune system and it is used in the treatment of cancer, skin and heart diseases. The most efficient source of astaxanthin is Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae. The aim of the present investigation was to extract the astaxatnin, a food, a feed and pharmaceutical valuable secondary carotenoid from the Haematococcus pluvialis with common vegetable oils. Without a cell harvest process step, the culture was directly mixed with the vegetable oils; the astaxanthin inside the cell was extracted into the vegetable oil phase by hydrophobic interaction. We have found that the maximum extractability of astaxanthin 98.28 % in soybean oil from mutant strain.

Application of bacterioruberin from Arthrobacter sp. isolated from Xinjiang desert to extend the shelf-life of fruits during postharvest storage.

Post-harvest losses and rapid fruit ripening at room temperature are major challenges in preserving fruit quality. This study aimed to reduce such losses by applying a red carotenoid pigment, bacterioruberin extracted from an Arthrobacter sp. The carotenoid was characterized as bacterioruberin and its derivative tetra anhydrous bacterioruberin (λmax 490 nm), and an m/z value of 675 and 742 (M+1H)+1. The annotated LIPID MAP demonstrated the presence of over 360 isoprenoids annotated transcripts. The compound exhibited significant antioxidant activity, with an IC50 of 22μg/mL, iron chelation and antibacterial activities indicating its potential as a natural preservative. When applied to grapes, peaches, and apricots, bacterioruberin (2%) effectively prevented spoilage for six days at room temperature. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA revealed a significant correlation (p=0.05) between treated and control groups in subjective quality attributes. Computational investigation with phospholipase D and VQ22 motif protein further supported the preservative potential of bacterioruberin.

UPLC-PDA-ESI-MS based chemometric analysis for solvent polarity effect evaluation on phytochemical compounds and antioxidant activity in habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq) fruit extract.

The effect of solvents with different polarities on the recovery of phytochemicals (carotenoids, capsaicinoids, and phenolic compounds) from habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense) and their association with antioxidant activity (ABTS•+ and DPPH) was evaluated through Ultra-Performance-Liquid Chromatography coupled with a Photodiode Array Detector and a Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-PDA-ESI-MS)-based chemometric analysis, including linear correlation, multiple linear regression, and principal component analysis (PCA). The solvent polarity scale was established according to solvent dielectric constants (ɛ). Color variation (ΔE) was used to determine the presence of carotenoids, with the highest ΔE obtained using low-polarity solvents (hexane and ethyl acetate). A high content of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin was recovered with acetone (4.29 and 3.76mg g⁻¹ dry weight, respectively). Phenolic compounds such as N-caffeoyl putrescine and derivatives of luteolin and apigenin were identified through mass spectrometry. A high recovery (26.54-31.74mg GAE g⁻¹ dry weight) of these compounds was obtained using intermediate-polarity solvents. The PCA revealed clustering of solvents based on their affinity for extracting specific compounds and their association with antioxidant activity. A significant correlation was observed between ΔE and DPPH, indicating that carotenoid pigments exhibited higher DPPH radical inhibition capacity than other compounds. Total phenolic content (TPC) and phenolic compounds (phenolpolyamides, hydroxycinnamic acids, and hydroxybenzoic acids) were clustered with the ABTS•+ radical inhibition assay. The information obtained is crucial for selecting suitable solvents in the extraction and purification protocols of bioactive compounds. It is also valuable for conducting plant metabolomic analyses and for studies focused on determining the effects of bioactive compounds in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmeceutical applications. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The results describe the characteristics of the extracts obtained using different solvents. Therefore, the information may be useful for establishing extraction protocols for phytochemical compounds in fruits from Capsicum chinense for various purposes, such as metabolomic analysis, the recovery of specific compounds with antioxidant activity, and food applications.

Land use, hydroclimate and damming influence organic carbon sedimentation in a flood pulse wetland, Malaysia

ABSTRACTWater bodies located in floodplains and tropical forests are known to be important carbon stores, but many are subjected to intensive pressures from damming, land use and climate changes. Sedimentary records preserve long‐term archives for understanding how such changes affect the quantity and quality of carbon stores. We analysed sediment cores from seven sites across a flood‐pulse multi‐basin wetland, Tasik Chini in Peninsular Malaysia (for percentage LOI550, sediment density and spheroidal carbonaceous particles), and conducted more analyses on three 210Pb‐dated cores (X‐ray fluorescence of elements, grain size analysis, carbon isotopes, C/N ratios, carotenoid pigments) to gain an understanding of the drivers of organic carbon accumulation rates (OCARs) since 1860 ce. The median OCAR of 85 g m−2 a−1 for the basin since 1945 ce was higher than in other floodplain and temperate lakes and in line with other tropical forest lakes. However, we found evidence for different mechanisms of OC deposition across the basin. In ‘autochthonous mode’, the site with minimal local land disturbance had lowest OCARs and OC was derived mainly from autochthonous production, which rose slightly around 1940 ce when regional land disturbance increased nutrient influx to the basin. The site with the most long‐term and intensive land disturbance through forest removal (1940s) and then conversion to rubber and oil palm farming (1980s) functioned mainly in ‘allochthonous mode’; that is, increases in OCARs after 1940 ce were driven by deposition of soil‐derived OC. The highest OCARs were in the basin that was converted to oil palm after the 1980s and had increased iron mining activity in the 2000s; because this site was located distal from the flood pulse and became increasingly hydrologically disconnected after a low rainfall period in the 1970s, the lake responded strongly in ‘autochthonous mode’, through encroachment of fringing swamp, the spread of benthic algae and macrophytes, and efficient sediment retention. Weir installation in 1995 ce raised water levels and increased lentic conditions, promoting autochthonous OC production and sedimentation across all basins. The long‐term fate of this more recently deposited OC remains uncertain because it is more labile. Overall Tasik Chini has responded strongly to land use changes since at least the 1940s, earlier than anticipated in this region of Southeast Asia, and the sedimentary proxies indicate large changes in the ecosystem function and capacity for C storage over the past ca. 80 years. Most of these shifts have increased OC accumulation by strengthening autochthonous production or allochthonous OC fluxes, but the implications for other aspects of the C cycle, including catchment soil C loss and greenhouse gas production, need to be accounted for when evaluating the overall impacts of land and hydrological disruption.

Effect of Light Intensity on Growth and Primary Metabolites Content of &lt;i&gt;Navicula &lt;/i&gt;sp.

Global energy demand is steadily rising, necessitating the exploration of sustainable alternatives. Microalgae, such as Navicula sp., offer a promising solution. This study investigated the impact of light intensity on the growth, and biochemical composition (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and carotenoids) of Navicula sp. Cultures were grown in f/2 medium under four light intensity treatments: 2100 lux (control), 3500 lux, 4500 lux, and 5500 lux. Cell growth was measured through optical density analysis. Carbohydrate, lipid, protein, and carotenoid assays were performed using phenol-sulfuric acid, Bligh and Dyer, Bradford, and spectrophotometric methods. Maximum growth was observed on the eighth day of cultivation at 4500 lux light intensity. The best specific growth rate was achieved at 5500 lux. The highest biomass, carbohydrate, lipid, and protein productivity were attained at 5500 lux (24.65 mg/mL, 0.374 mg/mL/day, 0.399±0.204 mg/mL/day, and 0.025±0.018 mg/mL/day). Conversely, the highest carotenoid productivity was recorded at 2100 lux, 0.278±0.085 mg/mL/day. By those means, the increase in light intensity was positively correlated with microalgal cell growth, biomass, carbohydrate content, and carbohydrate, lipid, and protein productivity. However, a negative correlation was found with carotenoid pigment productivity. From this research, it is evident that a light intensity of 5500 lux offers a feasible option for the industrial-scale cultivation of Navicula sp. microalgae for biomass, carbohydrate, and protein production, while 2100 lux is more suitable for carotenoid production. This research compares the findings to previous studies, emphasizing the unique way Navicula sp. responds to different light levels.

Comparison of astaxanthin and oxidized  - carotene in red tilapia diets: Effects on growth, pigmentation, immunity, and antioxidative functions

The study explored the effect of astaxanthin (AX) and oxidized b-carotene (OX) on the growth performance, skin coloration, and hematological parameters of red tilapia (Oreochromis spp.). The tilapia were fed one of three treatments: (a) commercial control diet, (b) commerical control diet supplemented with astaxanthin, and (c) commercial control diet supplemented with oxidized b-carotene. The experminet was based on a completely randomized design (CRD). Each treatments had three replicates. Red tilapia with an initial mean weight at 42.34 ± 1.326 grams per individual were distributed 8 fish per replicate: in total 72 fish. The feed was fed at a rate of 1.5% of body weight three times a day. Results indicated that fish fed the OX diet exhibited numerically superior growth performance compared to those fed the AX diet and control diets. Furthermore, fish fed the OX diet had significantly enhanced skin carotenoid pigmentation (p&lt;0.05). Hematological analysis revealed significantly higher levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and lysozyme activity in fish fed the OX diet compared to the other diet groups (p&lt;0.05). Therefore, it can be concluded that the fish fed the OX diet tended to outperform the fish fed AX diet and control diet and exhibited significantly better coloration and antioxidant status in this study.

Exploring the relationship between leaf color, canopy architecture,photosynthesis and pigment composition in guava mapping population

Leaf color is a crucial parameter in determining the photosynthetic productivity of a plant. We examined 150 intervarietal guava hybrids from the cross Arka Poorna x Purple Local, that were segregating for leaf color (green and greyed purple). Variations in tree morphology, gas exchange parameters and pigment contents were investigated to understand the impact of leaf color on plant growth and physiology. Significant differences were observed in tree morphology between green and purple leaves, with green leaf plants showing better growth and vigor than purple leaf individuals. Photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rates were significantly higher in green plants than in purple leaf plants. In contrast, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanins were significantly higher in the purple plants. These results suggest that the presence of high anthocyanin and carotenoid pigments in purple plants have a masking effect that resulted in high chlorophyll production and low photosynthetic rates due to reduced incident light. The segregating population is an important repository for mapping QTLs associated to photosynthetic attributes.

Practical laboratory class to assess gene silencing using CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) technology in the archaeon Haloferax volcanii.

Perturbation of gene expression using RNA interference (RNAi) or CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) is a useful strategy to explore the function of essential genes. In the archaeon Haloferax volcanii, the CRISPR-Cas system has been adapted as a CRISPRi tool to silence the expression of specific genes. We developed a laboratory class (LC) to conceptualize gene silencing through inactivation of the H. volcanii LonB protease gene, a negative regulator of carotenoid pigments biosynthesis, using CRISPRi. This LC has been successfully applied in the Biology and Biochemistry of Microorganisms course for undergraduate students of Biology in 2022 and 2023. The following objectives were proposed: (a) generate H. volcanii mutant strains with reduced expression of the lonB gene using CRISPRi; (b) examine the effect of lonB gene silencing on cell pigmentation and growth rate; (c) assess lonB gene repression by Western blotting (WB). This LC allows students to obtain and screen CRISPRi silenced-mutants by means of simple procedures using a non-pathogenic organism as well as handle basic microbiology, biochemistry and molecular biology protocols. Additionally, the LC fosters social actions through collaborative work (experimental work), the interpretation and discussion of data and the ability to communicate outcomes orally and in a written format (scientific report).

Enhancement of body red coloration in juvenile spotted scat (Scatophagus argus) by dietary supplementation with Lianjiang red orange peels as a natural carotenoid source

Spotted scat (Scatophagus argus) is an economically important marine species in China, with high ornamental and edible value. The effects of dietary supplementation of Lianjiang red orange peels, a natural carotenoid source, at 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12%, hereafter referred to as G0, G3, G6, G9 and G12, were measured on color values, carotenoid content, expression of genes such as cyp2j6, cyp1a1, hsp70, slc2a11, bco2, cyp26c1 after 4 weeks. Subsequently, the different color values (L*, a*, and b*), total carotenoids content, and gene expression pattern were analyzed. In the groups fed diets containing more than 9% Lianjiang red orange peels (9% and 12%), the L* value (lightness) decreased, while the a* value (redness) increased in red skin, and b* value (yellowness) increased in caudal fin (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Additionally, the total carotenoids content in red skin of the G9 group and caudal fin of the G12 group was substantially higher than in the other groups (P &amp;lt; 0.05). By comparative transcriptome analysis of the red skin in G0 and G9 groups, 419 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, of which 237 were upregulated and 182 were downregulated. Genes involved in carotenoid deposition (cyp2j6, cyp1a1) and pigment cell development (hsp70, slc2a11) were significantly upregulated, whereas genes related to carotenoid decomposition (bco2) and retinoic acid metabolism (cyp26c1) were significantly downregulated in the G9 group. These findings suggest that Lianjiang red orange peels, as a natural carotenoid source, enhance body coloration by influencing the deposition of carotenoid, pteridine pigments, erythrophore development, and inhibiting the oxidative cleavage of carotenoid and retinoic acid metabolism. This study enhances body coloration by influencing carotenoid and pteridine pigment deposition, and provides theoretical guidance for aquaculture practices involving spotted scat.

Extraction Methods, Encapsulation Techniques, and Health Benefits of Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin, a red carotenoid pigment found in marine species like microalgae, shrimp, and salmon, is a powerful bioactive molecule with several health effects. Astaxanthin, despite its potential, is highly vulnerable to degradation from external elements, including light, oxygen, and temperature, requiring meticulous extraction and stabilization methods. Astaxanthin can be extracted using solvent extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), and enzymatic extraction. Additionally, encapsulation methods that improve the stability and bioavailability of astaxanthin are examined, highlighting their efficacy in maintaining the chemical in unfavorable conditions. This review discusses the extensive range of astaxanthin’s medicinal capabilities, encompassing its antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and skin-protective activities. This research seeks to emphasize the significance of astaxanthin as a functional bioactive component with substantial potential in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications by describing the extraction and encapsulation techniques and their health-promoting attributes.

Carotenoids from Halophilic Archaea: A Novel Approach to Improve Egg Quality and Cecal Microbiota in Laying Hens.

Carotenoids from different sources have different structures and functions, and their dietary components benefit the health of various organisms. The effects of halophilic Archaea-derived C50 carotenoids on poultry egg quality and gut microbiota remain largely unexplored. In this study, we isolated a carotenoid-secreting strain of Halalkalicoccus paucihalophilus, TRM89021, from the Pamir Plateau. We characterized the carotenoid pigments produced by this strain; the major components were bacterioruberin and its derivatives. The effects of these carotenoids on the egg quality and cecal microbiota composition of hens were investigated. Compared to the basal diet group (BDG), supplementation with carotenoids in the carotenoids-supplemented diet group (CDG) resulted in significantly lower a* and b* scores at week 5 and lower b* scores and Haugh units at week 2, while egg strength and weight were higher. CDG also showed increased yolk antioxidant capacity, higher glutathione peroxidase levels, and significantly lower catalase levels (p < 0.05). Plasma analysis revealed elevated total bilirubin and aspartate aminotransferase levels, along with reduced inorganic phosphorus levels in the CDG (p < 0.05). No significant differences in cecal microbiota diversity were observed between the groups at any taxonomic level. This result suggests that halophilic archaea-derived carotenoids have the potential to be used as natural feed supplements to improve egg quality. Our study provides a theoretical basis for applying archaea-derived carotenoids in poultry diets.

Quality attributes, antioxidant activity and color profile of orange-fleshed sweet potato grown in Vietnam

This study analyzed the nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activities and estimated potential renal acid load (PRAL) score of orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) grown in Vietnam. In addition, important functional groups of carotenoid compounds in OFSP were identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR); carotenoid pigments were detected and quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results showed that, OFSP had outstanding physicochemical characteristics, containing many nutrients, bioactive substances, minerals and fiber. The negative PRAL score (< 0 mEq/day) of OFSP indicated that this was an alkaline food. FTIR spectroscopy provides a versatile tool for food analysis, and the analysis results showed that the carotenoid composition in OFSP grown in Vietnam have contained 14 complete functional groups detected, with 14 spectral peaks spanning the wavelength range from 433.98 cm−1 to 3288.63 cm−1. HPLC analysis identified the main carotenoid pigment in OFSP as β-carotene. The detailed evaluation of the physicochemical characteristics, functional groups and colorants in OFSP has shown that it is possible to use this raw material to develop different food products, playing a useful role in vitamin A deficiency management and improving the quality of human life.

Targeted metabolomics- and transcriptomics-based investigation of carotenoid pigmentation in Phalaenopsis-Type Dendrobium hybrids

Phalaenopsis-type Dendrobium hybrids (Den-Phals) stands out as globally popular tropical orchids. Carotenoids are crucial colored phytochemicals in flowers. The coloration mechanism of carotenoids in Den-Phals flowers were investigated through targeted metabolome and transcriptome analyses. In total, 48 carotenoids were detected from 11 Den-Phals. The composition and content of carotenoids varied among these cultivars and in the different parts of the same flowers. Lutein, which improves human visual performance, had the largest content in all the samples, with an average of 52.46%, and the highest value reached 79.45%. The top 10 carotenoids, including lutein, β-carotene, neoxanthin, iolaxanthin, (E/Z)-phytoene, zeaxanthin, antheraxanthin, α-cryptoxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, and α-carotene, collectively constituted 90% of the total carotenoids content. Among them, β-carotene, rather than lutein, was correlated with the yellow hue of floral color and was considered a key pigment. Furthermore, transcriptome sequencing of two cultivars with significant difference in carotenoid contents inferred the carotenoid metabolic pathway in Den-Phals. Seven differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were isolated: phytoene synthase (PSY), carotenoid isomerase (CrtISO), ζ-carotene isomerase (Z-ISO), lycopene ε-cyclase (LCYE), β-carotene hydroxylase (BCH), zeaxanthin epoxidase (ZEP), and 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase (NCED). Among these, LCYE was deemed a crucial enzyme gene, as it appears to govern lutein or β-carotene accumulating, thereby influencing yellow coloration of Den-Phals. The results offer valuable understanding of the carotenoid metabolic pathway and provide new guidance for breeding Den-Phals cultivars having both ornamental and medicinal traits.

Physicochemical and Color Changes During Fruit Ripening in Pepper Species (C. annuum L., C. baccatum L., and C. chinense Jacq.) Exposed to Salt Stress

This study examines the impact of salt stress on the physicochemical and color characteristics of three pepper species (Capsicum annuum L., Capsicum baccatum L., and Capsicum chinense Jacq.) at different ripening periods. Peppers were exposed to 0 mM, 50 mM, and 100 mM NaCl during the green, breaking, and red ripening periods. The results showed that salt stress significantly influenced moisture content, total ash, pH, titratable acidity, water activity, and color parameters. C. chinense had the highest moisture content and water activity, while C. annuum demonstrated a higher total ash content and pigment density (ASTA value). As fruits ripened, moisture content decreased, and total ash content increased. Salt stress caused reductions in water activity, pH, and titratable acidity, with high salt concentrations leading to increased water loss and a decline in fruit quality. Furthermore, salt stress reduced color parameters and ASTA values, indicating suppressed carotenoid pigment synthesis. The study highlights the importance of developing salt-tolerant pepper varieties, as salt stress negatively impacts the physiological and biochemical quality of peppers. These findings suggest that appropriate agronomic strategies and careful environmental monitoring are essential for sustainable pepper production, particularly in areas with saline soils. The results provide valuable insights into the mechanisms through which salt stress affects pepper fruit quality and suggest avenues for improving crop resilience.

Convergent Evolution of Armor: Thermal Resistance in Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Vent Crustaceans.

Organisms occupy diverse ecological niches worldwide, each with characteristics finely evolved for their environments. Crustaceans residing in deep-sea hydrothermal vents, recognized as one of Earth's extreme environments, may have adapted to withstand severe conditions, including elevated temperatures and pressure. This study compares the exoskeletons of two vent crustaceans (bythograeid crab Austinograea sp. and squat lobster Munidopsis lauensis) with four coastal species (Asian paddle crabs, blue crab, hermit crab, and mantis shrimp) to identify traits influenced by vent environments. The goal was to identify distinctive exoskeletal characteristics commonly observed in vent crustaceans, resulting from their exposure to severe abiotic factors, including elevated temperatures and pressures, found in vent environments. Results show that the exoskeletons of vent crustaceans demonstrated significantly enhanced thermal stability compared to coastal species. These vent crustaceans consistently featured exoskeletons characterized by a reduced proportion of volatile components, such as water, and an increased proportion of CaCO3, compared with coastal crustaceans. Furthermore, vent crustaceans lacked carotenoid pigments that had low heat resistance. However, no apparent differences were observed in the mechanical properties. Our findings suggest that the similar composition of exoskeletons in vent crustaceans evolved convergently to withstand high temperatures.