Edible Resources Research Articles

Shedding Light on The Existence of Furan Fatty Acids in Latex Lipids Across a Wide Diversity of Hevea brasiliensis Genotypes

Furan fatty acids produced by plants and bacteria, and present in some edible resources, have attracted significant scientific attention for their health benefits. They include 10,13-epoxy-11-methyl-octadecan-10,12-dienoic acid, which has been identified in the lipid fraction of latex from two Hevea brasiliensis genotypes commonly known as the source of natural rubber. Those two genotypes, namely RRIM501 and PB235, are from Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia (RRIM) and Prang Besar, Malaysia (PB), respectively. This research aimed to undertake the first ever investigation into the existence of this potential high value-added co-product in the lipid fraction of 48 Hevea brasiliensis genotypes, seeking to study the widest possible clonal variability. The results showed furan fatty acid exists in all lipid fractions of their latices. Its content varied significantly, ranging from 0.01% to 0.71% (w/w in latex), the highest concentrations were found in genotypes from the Institut de Recherche sur le Caoutchouc (IRCA) in Côte d'Ivoire, Prang Besar (PB) in Malaysia, and Rubber Research Institute of Vietnam (RRIV) in Vietnam breeding programs. A positive correlation with total fatty acid content was observed when its content exceeded 0.10%, suggesting an additive rather than a substitutive role with the other fatty acids present. Interestingly, linoleic and palmitoleic acids strongly correlated with the furan fatty acid concentration, indicating a possible biosynthetic pathway linkage. In terms of yield per tapping PB235, RRIV4, RRIV2, IRCA41, IRCA18, PB324, IRCA814, IRCA323, and IRCA109 genotypes showed the highest production potential, with yields range of 1 367–2 446 mg furan fatty acid per tree per tapping. Notably, the biochemical markers of natural rubber productivity (sucrose, inorganic phosphorus, thiols, and total solid content) showed no direct involvement in furan fatty acid biosynthesis during latex regeneration between tappings. Based on knowledge of the parentage of the studied clones, a trait heritability study was conducted and genotype PB5/51 was identified as a very worthwhile genitor for improving furan fatty acid contents in a breeding population.

An Industrial Economics Perspective on the Economic Valuation of Cornus officinalis: A Case Study from Xixia County, Henan Province

The dual nature of Cornus officinalis as both a medicinal and edible resource endows it with expansive market potential. This research develops an analytical framework to evaluate the economic value of Cornus officinalis through the lens of industrial economics. Utilizing theoretical exploration and a case study centered on Xixia County, Henan Province, the study draws several key conclusions: First, within the primary industry, Cornus officinalis contributes to the enhancement of farmers’ incomes and fosters the growth of local agriculture-related sectors through the cultivation of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Second, from the perspective of the secondary industry, Cornus officinalis generates substantial economic worth via food processing and pharmaceutical commerce. Finally, in the realm of the tertiary industry, the economic value of Cornus officinalis is predominantly realized through leisure and wellness services, as well as the tourism sector.

Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High-Definition Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics to Reveal the Potential Anti-Arthritic Effects of Illicium verum in Cultured Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes Derived from Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease. The fruits of Illicium verum, which is a medicinal and edible resource, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of I. verum extracts (IVEs) on human RA fibroblasts-like synoviocytes (RA-FLS) by using a sensitive and selective ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with high-definition mass spectrometry (UPLC-HDMS) method. We subsequently analyzed the metabolites produced after the incubation of cultured RA-FLS with IVEs. IVEs inhibited the proliferation and suppressed the migration of RA-FLS, and reduced the levels of inflammatory factors including TNF-α and IL-6. Twenty differential metabolites responsible for the effects of IVEs were screened and annotated based on the UPLC-HDMS data by using a cell metabolomics approach. Our findings suggest that treating RA-FLS with IVEs can regulate lipid and amino acid metabolism, indicating that this extract has the potential to modify the metabolic pathways that cause inflammation in RA. This might lead to novel therapeutic strategies for managing patients with RA.

Characterization of the conversion system of natural rubber to poly(3-Hydroxyalkanoate) in Piscinibacter gummiphilus strain NS21T

Poly(3-hydroxyalkanoate) (PHA), a bacteria-synthesized biodegradable polyester, is a useful alternative to fossil resources, and current systems for its production rely predominantly on edible resources, raising concerns about microbial competition for nutrients. Therefore, we investigated mechanisms underlying PHA production from non-edible resources by Piscinibacter gummiphilus strain NS21T. Strain NS21T can utilize natural rubber as a carbon source on solid media and potentially produces PHA. Gas chromatography and nuclear magnetic resonance analyses of NS21T cell extracts revealed the production of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) from natural rubber and glucose, respectively. Transcriptional analysis suggested that phaC is involved in PHA production. An increased PHBV accumulation rate under nitrogen-limiting conditions indicates the potential of this strain to be used as a PHBV production enhancement strategy. Furthermore, the disruption of PHA depolymerase genes resulted in enhanced PHA production, indicating the involvement of these genes in PHA degradation. These findings highlight the potential of NS21T for PHBV production from natural rubber, a non-edible resource.

LC-ESI-UHR-QqTOF-MS/MS profiling and anti-inflammatory potential of the cultivated Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. and the wild Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. fruits from the Algerian region

Opuntia plants are abundant but still underexplored edible resources of the Algerian region. This work chemically characterizes extracts of different parts of the fruit of the commercial Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. and the wild Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. growing in Bejaia, and evaluates their anti-inflammatory potential through different cell and cell-free bioassays. The LC-ESI-UHR-QqTOF-MS/MS analysis enabled the identification of 18 compounds, with azelaic acid and 1-O-vanilloyl-β-d-glucose reported here for the first time. Aqueous extracts of seeds were the most effective in scavenging superoxide anion radical (IC50 = 111.08 μg/mL) and presented the best anti-inflammatory potential in LPS-stimulated macrophages (IC50 = 206.30 μg/mL). The pulp of O. stricta suggested potential for addressing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, with piscidic and eucomic acids predicted with the strongest binding affinity towards tyrosinase, exhibiting higher scoring values than the reference inhibitor kojic acid. This pioneer study brings valuable perspectives for the pharmacological, nutritional and economic valorization of the wild O. stricta for functional foods.

Kaempferol Derivatives from Hippophae rhamnoides Linn. Ameliorate H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress in SH-SY5Y Cells by Upregulating Nrf2.

As a medicinal and edible resource, Hippophae rhamnoides Linn. subsp. sinensis Rousi is rich in bioactive secondary metabolites, including flavonoids and their derivatives, which offer protective effects against oxidative damage. This study reported the isolation of three new kaempferol derivatives from the seed residue of H. rhamnoides - Hippophandine A, B, and C (compounds 1-3). Their structures were elucidated by high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and chemical analyses. The compounds were evaluated for their ability to mitigate hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced cell death in SH-SY5Y cells. The results elucidated that Hippophandine A-C at concentrations of 1, 5, and 10 μM reduced the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased the activity of antioxidative enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT). Furthermore, they significantly altered the protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), which is an indicator of redox detection in H2O2-induced SH-SY5Y.

Modeling sustainable bioethanol supply chain in Australia: A system dynamics approach

The growing energy demand and concerns over fossil fuel consumption underscore the need for a shift to renewable energies and biofuels. Concurrently, the rising global population and increased biofuel demand strain the food supply system, requiring enhanced production capabilities. By using a system dynamics model, this study investigates the intricate relationship between bioethanol production and food security in Australia, emphasizing the essential balance for a sustainable bioethanol supply chain. The research explores the interplay among population, food supply, and energy supply subsystems, projecting diverse bioethanol production scenarios until 2050. Findings reveal constraints within the Australian bioethanol supply chain, with current capacity meeting demand at a 1.5 % bioethanol blend rate to gasoline. However, surpassing 3.4 % demands significant capacity expansions incurring substantial costs. At a 5 % blend rate, it is imperative to augment the production capacity to 1275 million liters of bioethanol by 2050. The study underscores the limitations of relying on sorghum for bioethanol production, emphasizing the strategic need to embrace alternative sources such as wheat starch waste and molasses. Addressing the challenge of supplying sufficient food for consumption and energy production, our research advocates for a shift towards fuels produced without edible resources. These insights are vital for policymakers and industry stakeholders, contributing to the understanding of complexities in establishing a sustainable bioethanol industry while ensuring food security and environmental sustainability.

DESCRIPTION OF BIODIESEL PRODUCTION FROM WASTE OIL RAW MATERIALS BY SOLID ACID CATALYSIS IN THE SIMULATOR PROGRAM

Increasing biodiesel production to reduce usage of its fossil based alternative is important for meeting consumption demand in more environmentally friendly way. The problem is utilization of edible resources for that purpose as it leads shortage in supply (increase in cost), instead usage of non-edible resources consisting sufficient amount of the free fatty acid content could be considered. This study focused on analysis of the inexpensive high FFAs raw materials to manufacture biodiesel with SO4-2/TiO2-SiO2 comprised solid acid catalyst. In addition to being readily recyclable, the solid acid catalyst has the ability to catalyze both esterification and transesterification at the same time. After analysis of the various parameters, ideal ones were found to be two hundred degree Celsius temperature, 9 to 1 methanol/oil ratio at 3 weight percent concentration of the catalyst for reaction. The outputs showed that the catalyst was quite effective in converting the cheap source to the biodiesel and manufacturing ten thousand tonnes seems viable. Keywords: biodiesel, solid acid, esterification, transesterification, waste oil feedstock.

Comprehensive Evaluation of the Nutritional Properties of Different Germplasms of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua.

Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua, an edible resource and medical material, is mainly consumed as a food in China. However, few published studies have comprehensively assessed its nutritional components. In this study, the proximate, carbohydrate, and dietary fiber contents as well as the mineral, vitamin, and amino acid compositions of five sources of P. cyrtomena grown in Yuhang district, Hangzhou city, Zhejiang province, were investigated. The nutritional profile of the five germplasms was investigated using analytical chemistry methods. All germplasms had a low starch content and contained greater amounts of carbohydrates (23.25-34.29%), protein (2.96-5.40%), Ca (195.08-282.08 mg/100 g), Fe (29.68-59.37 mg/100 g), and vitamin C (60.49-149.86 mg/100 g) in comparison to ginger, yam, and potatoes. The polysaccharide content ranged from 16.92% to 28.48%, representing the main source of carbohydrates. Fructose, a desirable sweetener, was the most abundant monosaccharide, representing 1.06% to 4.88% of the content. P. cyrtonema was found to be high in dietary fiber, with pectin and resistant starch being the major soluble components and hemicellulose being the dominant insoluble dietary fiber. A correlation analysis (CA) revealed significant correlations for the carbohydrate components and dietary fiber fractions with other nutrients. A principal component analysis (PCA) identified significant differences between the nutritional characteristics of the five germplasms, with Huanggang having the highest comprehensive quality scores. Moreover, ten nutrient components were selected as potential indicators that could be used to further evaluate the nutritional quality of P. cyrtomena. Our results demonstrate the rich nutrient composition and characteristics of P. cyrtonema and provide a valuable reference for the future development and utilization of Polygonatum.

Research progress on active ingredients of Coicis Semen

As a common medicinal and edible resource in China, Coicis Semen has a long history of cultivation and medicinal use. Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) clinically believes that Coicis Semen has the effect of strengthening the spleen and tonifying the lungs, clearing heat and dampness, removing pus and paralysis, and stopping diarrhea. Therefore, it is used to treat edema, foot odor, spleen deficiency, diarrhea, and other symptoms. The above effects are closely related to the active ingredients of Coicis Semen, such as esters, fatty acids, polysaccharides, proteins, as well as phenolic acids, sterols, flavonoids, lactams, triterpenes, alkaloids, and adenosine. Modern research has found that Coicis Semen also has anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and hypotensive effects and other pharmacological activities, and it can improve immunity and regulate lipid metabolism. Coicis Semen is widely distributed in China, mainly produced in Guizhou, Yunnan, Fujian, Sichuan, and other places, and the quality of Coicis Semen from different origins varies. From ancient times to the present, Coicis Semen processing methods have experienced the process from simple to complex, and the types of auxiliary materials are more extensive, such as soil, bran, and river sand. These processing methods have been inherited from generation to generation. Nowadays, the commonly used methods are bran-fried, stir-fried, sand-fried, etc. In this paper, by reviewing the relevant literature in China and abroad in recent years, the main active ingredients and related pharmacological effects of Coicis Semen are sorted out, and the effects of different origins and processing methods on the chemical composition of Coicis Semen are summarized, with a view to providing references for the comprehensive development and utilization of Coicis Semen and the further study of its mechanism of action.

A comparative study on biodiesel production from edible and non-edible biomasses

Biodiesel is a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diesel fuel. It can be produced from various sources, primarily through homogeneously alkali-catalyzed transesterification. However, with the increasing demand for edible oils and the ongoing concerns about using edible resources for fuel, non-edible oils have become more attractive for biodiesel production. Non-edible oils, such as those derived from waste oils, offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly source for biodiesel production. The current study compares biodiesel samples’ properties derived from an uncooked sunflower oil sample provided by a local bio-industry and four waste cooking oil samples collected from a local restaurant and fast food shop. The findings indicated that most biodiesel properties from edible and non-edible biomass feedstocks were found to be similar and met the specifications outlined in the EN 14,214 standard. Nevertheless, the oxidation stability and the viscosity were found to be outside the specified limits in most of the samples. Additionally, GC–MS analysis exhibited a similar composition of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), with a high proportion of unsaturated FAMEs in all biodiesel samples.

Heavy metal accumulation and health risk assessment in S. alterniflora Loisel. and native plant Suaeda salsa (L.) Pall. in Dongtai Tiaozini wetland

Coastal wetlands play an irreplaceable role in the global ecosystem, and both human activities and natural factors may lead to the contamination of Tiaozini coastal wetland with heavy metals. The study was conducted to determine the contents of eight heavy metals, Hg, Cd, Cr, As, Pb, Cu, Ni, and Zn, in the above-ground and below-ground parts of the plants and in the rhizosphere sediment, using the invasive species S. alterniflora and the native plant S. glauca, calculating the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), bioaccumulation factor, transfer factor, total target risk quotient (TTHQ), and carcinogenicity risk (CR), to analyze the transfer characteristics and potential health risks to human beings of the heavy metals in plants. This study aims to investigate the enrichment characteristics of the dominant plant, S. alterniflora Loisel. (S. alterniflora) and Suaeda salsa (L.) Pall. (S. glauca). Regarding heavy metals, eight common heavy metal elements were selected, including Hg, Cd, Cr, As, Pb, Cu, Ni, and Zn, and examined their content in surface sediments and different parts of the two plants. The transfer characteristics of heavy metals in the plant body and their potential health risks to humans were also analyzed. These findings suggest that both plants accumulate higher concentrations of heavy metals in their below-ground parts. Cr, Cu, and Zn had the highest average concentrations in both plants. Geoaccumulation index (Igeo) indicated that the Tiaozini Wetland is not yet contaminated. S. alterniflora had transfer factors less than 1 for all heavy metals, while S. glauca had transfer factors greater than 1. Both plants had a certain purifying effect on heavy metal pollution in wetlands, including Cr, Cd, Cu, and Zn. However, Cr and As in the below-ground part of S. alterniflora and Cr in the above-ground part of S. glauca had a target hazard quotient (THQ) greater than 1, indicating a potential health risk to humans, but the carcinogenic risk is low. For other heavy metals, THQ was less than 1, indicating no health risk. The total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) of different parts of both plants was greater than 1, which must be taken into account when considering their suitability as edible resources.

Trade-offs in food systems; How does upcycling edible resources fit in the big picture?

BackgroundGlobally, a large share of food is lost or wasted, contributing to resource overuse. Reducing wastage through product and processing innovations that use by-products while prioritising food production can alleviate this. However, there are trade-offs between different goals to consider, in particular between economic and social aims, and the value of ‘upcycling’ edible resources differs depending on the degree to which a food systems perspective is adopted. Scope and approachThis manuscript puts forth a range of propositions about the importance of taking a food systems perspective. It provides an overview of food systems and associated trade-offs during decision-making, followed by identifying the position of upcycling within a food system. We outline two example cases that reveal the benefits of using food systems thinking in decision-making regarding innovation in upcycling, and we conclude with suggestions for future research. Key findings and conclusionsWhen ethical perspectives on the trade-offs between economic and social aims around upcycling become more transparent through a food system perspective, this transparency could motivate companies to communicate to their consumers about their alternative choices. Adopting a systems approach could thus further transparent communication, consumer trust, and potentially reputation of companies and actors in the food system. Such ethical differentiation, in turn, could lead to economic profit for the same companies and actors, thus increasing value for everyone involved.

The Dynamic Accumulation Rules of Chemical Components during the Medicine Formation Period of Angelica sinensis and Chemometric Classifying Analysis for Different Bolting Times Using ATR-FTIR

The dried roots of the perennial herb Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels (AS) are commonly used as medicinal and edible resources. In commercial planting, early bolting and flowering (EB) of ca. 60% in the medicine formation period reduces root yield and quality, becoming a significant bottleneck in agricultural production. In the cultivation process, summer bolting (SB) occurs from June to July, and autumn bolting (AB) occurs in September. The AB root is often mistaken for the AS root due to its similar morphological characteristics. Few studies have involved whether the root of AB could be used as herbal medicine. This study explored and compared the accumulation dynamics of primary and secondary metabolites in AS and EB roots during the vegetative growth stage (from May to September) by light microscopy, ultraviolet spectrometry, and HPLC methods. Under a microscope, the amount of free starch granules and oil chamber in the AS root increased. On the contrary, they decreased further from EB-Jul to EB-Sep. By comparison, the wall of the xylem vessel was slightly thickened and stacked, and the cell walls of parenchyma and root cortex tissue were thickened in the EB root. Early underground bolting reduces soluble sugar, soluble protein, free amino acids, total C element, total N element, ferulic acid, and ligustilide accumulation, accompanied by the lignification of the root during the vegetative growth stage. Furthermore, a total of 55 root samples from different bolting types of AS root (29 samples), SB root (14 samples), and AB root (12 samples) were collected from Gansu Province during the harvesting period (October). The later the bolting occurred, the less difference there was between unbolted and bolted roots in terms of morphological appearance and efficacy components. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with the attenuated total reflection mode (ATR-FTIR) provides a “holistic” spectroscopic fingerprinting of all compositions in the tested sample. The ATR-FTIR spectrum of the AB root was similar to that of the AS root. However, the number and location of absorption peaks in the spectra of SB were different, and only one strong absorption peak at 1021 cm−1 was regarded as the characteristic peak of C-O stretching vibration in lignin. The ATR-FTIR spectra can be effectively differentiated based on their various characteristics using orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA). Results were assessed using multiple statistical techniques, including Spearman’s correlation, principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and OPLS-DA. Among these methods, the ATR-FTIR data demonstrated the most effective outcomes in differentiating between viable and non-viable roots for their application in herbal medicine. Essential substances are ferulic acid and flavonoid, which are much more abundant in the AB root. It provides a material basis for the pharmacological action of the AB roots and a theoretical basis for improving their availability.

Sheathless CESI-MS versus LC-MS: Results of qualitative and quantitative analyses of the primary and secondary metabolites of Pleioblastus amarus bamboo shoots.

The bamboo shoot of Pleioblastus amarus (Keng) Keng f. is a medicinal and edible resource in China. In this study, three separation techniques were applied to identify the primary and secondary metabolites component of P. amarus bamboo shoots, including sheathless capillary electrophoresis electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (CESI-MS), reverse-phase liquid chromatography-MS (RPLC-MS), and hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography-MS (HILIC-MS). A total of 201 metabolites were identified by the three methods. Among those metabolites, 146 were identified by RPLC-MS, 85 were identified by HILIC-MS, and 46 were identified by sheathless CESI-MS. These methods were complementary and had a linear coefficient. CESI-MS presented advantages in the identification of isomers, high sensitivity, very low sample usage, and good detection of polar and nonpolar metabolites, showing its unique applications in food analysis and prospects in metabolic research.

Irony of Urban Food Basket and Rural Wild Edible Resources- A Case from India

This article sheds light on the current system of urban food gamut, future vulnerabilities, and interventions. Wild edible plants for urban consumers a prospects and encounters for sustainable innovation which creates a win-win situation. The term “Wild Food Plants” refers to non-cultivated wild edible plants gathered from natural forests and agricultural land. It is food for thought as the urban poor population increasing exponentially. It is also a very good alternative and chief source of nutritive food which has been practiced by indigenous people since immemorial. It could be a local substitute for global high-carbon food available in urban markets. Moreover, wild food plants have many ailments aiding in getting nutritive elements locally instead of globally produced food that is alien to our gut system.

Computer simulation of scavenging by hominins and giant hyenas in the late Early Pleistocene

Consumption of animal-sourced food is an important factor in broadening the diet of early hominins, promoting brain and body growth, and increasing behavioural complexity. However, whether early hominins obtained animal food by scavenging or hunting large mammals remains debated. Sabre-toothed felids have been proposed to facilitate the expansion of early Homo out of Africa into Europe 1.4–0.8 Ma by creating a niche for scavengers in Eurasia as the carcasses abandoned by these felids still contained abundant edible resources. In contrast, it has been argued that the niche for a large scavenger was already occupied in Eurasia by the giant hyena, preventing hominins from utilising this resource. This study shows that sabre-toothed felids generated carcasses rich in edible resources and that hominins were capable of competing with giant hyenas for this resource. The simulation experiments showed that maintaining an optimum group size is essential for the success of the hominin scavenging strategy. Early hominins could outcompete giant hyenas only if they could successfully dispute carcasses with them. Thus, in the presence of a strong competitor, passive scavenging is essentially the same as confrontational scavenging.

The importance of wild edible plant and macrofungi diversity to attain food security for the tribes of eastern India—a quantitative study

BackgroundInventorization and promotion of traditionally used local flora can be a better option to gain a wide range of alternative edible resources and multiple nutritional benefits. A perusal of literature highlighted the poor nutritional status of the tribal community living in eastern India and pointed out the potential lack of information regarding locally available wild edible resources.ObjectivePresent study aimed to document detailed information on wild edibles of eastern India, evaluate their cultural significance, and understand their role in achieving food security for the local tribes.Materials and methodologyTraditional knowledge of wild edibles was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Standard protocols were followed for collecting data. The collected data were analyzed using specific statistical tools like Relative frequency of citation (RFC), and Cultural food significance index (CFSI) to identify the most cited and culturally significant species. Jaccard similarity index (JI) was used to check the similarity of food plant use in different localities and adjoining areas of the laterite region in eastern India.ResultsA total of 2,603 citations were made by the 153 participants for 83 types of wild edibles spread across 48 families. Among the 83 species, 65 species were angiosperms, three species were pteridophytes and the rest 15 were from fungal groups. The RFC value ranged from 0.04 to 0.76, and Madhuca longifolia (L.) J.F.Macbr. was identified as the most frequently cited species (FC = 116; RFC = 0.76). The Cultural food significance index (CFSI) value varied from 0.2 to 844, and thirteen wild edibles like Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott, Enydra fluctuans Lour., Marsilea vestita Hook. & Grev., Termitomyces heimii Natarajan, etc. were identified as culturally most important in the locality.ConclusionPresent study concludes that the local flora and macrofungi diversity is a treasure trove for fulfilling human hunger and gaining enough nutritional benefit. Scientific and sustainable utilization of these wild edibles can be a wise step to attain multiple health benefits and food security for the tribal community of eastern India. Moreover, culturally accepted species can be opted as a good source for bioprospecting nutraceuticals.

Ethnobotanical study of underutilized wild edible plants and threats to their long-term existence in Midakegn District, West Shewa Zone, Central Ethiopia

BackgroundEthiopia is endowed with much plant diversity. The insignificant number of studies on wild edible plants with their ethnobotanical perspectives indicated that this plant diversity comprised only hundreds of wild edible plants used to supplement food sources for the local community under different conditions. There still need to be further investigations throughout the country when compared to the total area and cultural diversity of the country. However, they are seriously under pressure due to different natural and human influences. Therefore, the study was conducted to document underutilized wild edible plants along with their associated indigenous knowledge and explore threats to them in Midakegn District.MethodsA questionnaire survey, semi-structured interviews, a market survey, score ranking, and focused group discussions were employed for data collection. Statistical analysis of ethnobotanical knowledge mean variation between different informant groups was computed by using one-way ANOVA in the IBM SPSS Statics version 24 package.ResultsA total of fifty underutilized wild edible plants belonging to 39 genera and 30 families were collected, recorded, and documented. The families Moraceae (four), Fabaceae, Flacourtaceae, Myrtaceae, Rosaceae, and Tiliaceae (each three) represented the highest number of species. It comprised shrubs (44%), trees (36%), herbs (18%), and epiphytes (2%). Fruits (62.3%) were found to be the most frequently used and mostly taken raw, fresh, or dried. These edible resources were consumed to supplement staple foods (67.3%), whereas 25% were used as emergency foods. The majority of species (96%) had multiple uses in addition to their edibility. A significantly higher (P < 0.05) number of underutilized wild edible plants were cited by males than females, by key informants than generals, elders than youngsters, illiterate than literate, and poorer than other wealth class groups of the community. Priority rankings indicate that agricultural expansion, fuel wood harvest, overgrazing, and selective harvesting are the most threatening factors to underutilized wild edible plants.ConclusionsFifty underutilized wild edible plants, along with their associated indigenous knowledge, were recorded. Local people utilize them for supplementing staple food, as emergency food, to get relief, trust, and chew during drought. But they are mainly threatened by different human activities in the study area.

The antihyperuricemia activity of Astragali Radix through regulating the expression of uric acid transporters via PI3K/Akt signalling pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAstragali Radix (AR) is the dry root of the leguminous plants Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch) Beg. var. mongholicus (Beg) Hsiao, and Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch) Bge., being used as a medicinal and edible resource. AR is used in traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions to treat hyperuricemia, but this particular effect is rarely reported, and the associated mechanism of action is still need to be elucidated. Aim of the studyTo research the uric acid (UA)-lowering activity and mechanism of AR and the representative compounds through the constructed hyperuricemia mouse and cellular models. Materials and methodsIn our study, the chemical profile of AR was analysed by UHPLC-QE-MS, as well as the mechanism of action of AR and the representative compounds on hyperuricemia was studied through the constructed hyperuricemia mouse and cellular models. ResultsThe main compounds in AR were terpenoids, flavonoids and alkaloids. Mice group treated with the highest AR dosage showed significantly lower (p < 0.0001) serum uric acid (208 ± 9 μmol/L) than the control group (317 ± 11 μmol/L). Furthermore, UA increased in a dose-dependence manner in urine and faeces. Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen standards, as well as xanthine oxidase in mice liver, decreased (p < 0.05) in all cases, indicating that AR could relieve acute hyperuricemia. UA reabsorption protein (URAT1 and GLUT9) was down-regulated in AR administration groups, while the secretory protein (ABCG2) was up-regulated, indicating that AR could promote the excretion of UA by regulating UA transporters via PI3K/Akt signalling pathway. ConclusionThis study validated the activity, and revealed the mechanism of AR in reducing UA, which provided experimental and clinical basis for the treatment of hyperuricemia with it.