Fruit Pericarp Research Articles

Phytochemical study, nutritional evaluation and in vitro antiobesity potential of fruits pericarp and seeds of Livistona carinensis and Thrinax parviflora

Phytochemical study, nutritional evaluation and in vitro antiobesity potential of fruits pericarp and seeds of Livistona carinensis and Thrinax parviflora

Isolation of a High Antioxidant Non-Toxic Polar Fraction from Garcinia mangostana Fruit Pericarp by Reverse Phase Column Chromatography

The crude polar extract of mangosteen fruit pericarp not only has a moderate antioxidant activity of (55±4 μg/mL) but also has high cytotoxicity (16±0.5 μg/mL). The high cytotoxicity presumably is caused by the presence of complex cytotoxic compounds from the mangosteen pericarp. To obtain a non-toxic extract preparation with high antioxidant activity, polar crude 50% ethanol extracts of mangosteen pericarp were partially purified using reverse-phase column chromatography with Silica C18 as the stationary phase and acetonitrile-water gradient elution. Six of the ten fractions collected had high antioxidant activities, with IC50 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging antioxidant levels <50 μg/mL. Three fractions (fractions 3, 5, and 7) with the highest antioxidant activities of (16.4 ± 0.6 µg/mL), (17.8 ± 2 µg/mL) and (17.4 ± 1.8 µg/mL) respectively, were chosen for further cytotoxicity, phenolic content and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The cytotoxic tests were conducted with the Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay. Fraction 3 had low cytotoxicity (LC50 485 ± 96 µg/mL) and fraction 5 was non-toxic (LC50 ≥ 1000 µg/mL), while fraction 7 still had high cytotoxicity (LC50 2.8 ± 0.8 µg/mL). The chromatogram profiles of HPLC showed that fractions 3 and 5 contained more polar compounds than the compounds present in fraction 7. It can be concluded that the reverse phase method succeeded in the isolation of a non-toxic polar fraction, that is, fraction 5, with a significantly higher (p<0.05) antioxidant activity than in the original crude polar extracts. This fraction had a high total phenolic content of 43.3 ± 0.3 g GAE per 100 g extract.

Effects of blanching and pickling process on the alcohol acyltransferase (AAT) activity, myristicin content and quality parameters of pickled nutmeg (Myristica fragrans).

Myristicin, a potential toxicant, is a major ester present in the pericarp of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) and alcohol acyltransferase (AAT) is responsible for its generation. The objective of the study was firstly to estimate the effect of blanching and pickling process on the inactivation of AAT and production of myristicin in nutmeg pericarp. Secondly, the effect of pickling process on the physical, microbial, antioxidant and sensory properties of nutmeg was evaluated. The nutmeg fruit pericarp was water-blanched for 0, 3, 5, 7 and 9min. The increased blanching time significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the AAT activity (3.478 U/mg protein) compared to fresh nutmeg (39.034 U/mg protein). The reduction of myristicin was so efficient that it could not be detected after 9min of blanching. Similarly, the pickling process significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited the AAT activity and lowered the myristicin content. However, the blanching significantly (p < 0.05) lowered the total phenol content and reduced the free radical scavenging capacity of pickled nutmeg (BP) when compared with commercial pickled nutmeg. Blanched pickled nutmeg (BP) presented the same color characteristics as of commercial one, although significant reduction in hardness was observed. No growth of yeast and mold was noticed for all the blanched pickled nutmeg. The sensory analysis data demonstrated that blanching up to 7min maintained the overall acceptability of pickled nutmeg as of commercial pickled nutmeg. Thus, the study suggests that blanching and pickling treatment improved the quality of nutmeg effectively by inhibiting the AAT activity and reducing the myristicin content.

Modified fruit pericarp as an effective biosorbent for removing azo dye from aqueous solution: study of adsorption properties and mechanisms

To explore cheap, easily available and high adsorption performance bioadsorbent is still an important task for azo dye pollution control. In this study, the Methyl orange (MO) adsorption capacity by a novel bioadsorbent obtained from lychee and longan pericarps via simple modification was investigated. Prepared pericarps were modified by PEI at 30˚C and 65˚C, which improved the adsorption performance confirmed by batch adsorption experiments. The characteration of modified pericarps by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and zeta potential indicated that the enhanced adsorption performance may be due to the abundant amines and imines and stronger electropositivity. The maximum adsorption capacity (349.37 mg/g) was observed for LC@PEI-65 at 45˚C and pH 4. Freundlich isotherm model fitted pretty well with the isotherm experiment data, and the isotherm experimental data were preferably described by pseudo-second order model indicating the chemical adsorption process, and the intra-particle diffusion also involved in the adsorption process. Characterization and adsorption tests suggested electrostatic interaction played a key role in MO removal, accompanied by intermolecular hydrogen bond, π-π dispersion interaction and pore filling collectively. The present study show that the cost-effective PEI modified pericarps could possess a hopeful application for azo dye removal from wastewater.

Combined impact of peppermint oil and lime oil on Mangosteen (Garcinia Mangostana) fruit ripening and mold growth using closed system

Mangostenn (Garcina mangostana) is a climacteric fruit and thus, there is need for intervention on its postharvest preservation to delay ripening, reduce spoilage and microbial infestation, and possibly enhance its availability all year round. This study was aimed at determining the best application ratio of the combination of peppermint oil (PO) and lime oil (LO) essential oils (EOs) in slowing down ripening and extending the shelf-life of mangosteen in a closed storage system. Furthermore, the mechanism by which PO and LO inhibit mold and decay on the surface of mangosteen was investigated. Forty microliters of PO and LO at ratios 1:0, 0:1, 1:1, 2:1, and 1:3, respectively, were applied to the fruit in a 1 L storage box and stored at 25 ± 2 °C, 75 ± 5 % RH for 9 days. The ability of the EOs to suppress mold and decay, and their effects on ripening stage were measured. Also, the quality parameters of the fruit pericarp (peel) and aril (pulp) after treating with EOs were evaluated. Results showed that ratio 1:3 of PO and LO had 20 % mold and decay appearance after 9 d, compared with the control (untreated sample) which had 80%. Mangosteen treated with this ratio of EOs attained only stage 4 (red color) of ripening, while the fruit in the control group were completely ripened at the end of storage, reaching stage 6 (dark purple). In addition, the fruit firmness, color (calyx, pericarp, and aril), titratable acidity, pH, total soluble solids, and total phenolic content were maintained with this ratio when compared with the control and other ratios. The potential mode of action of PO and LO was revealed by scanning electron microscopy and gas chromatography - mass spectrometry analysis where main components of these EOs such as menthol, menthone and limonene were released into the treated fruit, with possible interaction with other components for improved antifungal activity. The application of PO and LO at this ratio (1:3) could be formulated as a fungicide on mangosteen for enhanced antifungal activity, improved shelf-life quality, and consumer acceptability of mangosteen fruit.

Antiurolithiatic Evaluation of α- Mangostin Fraction Isolated from Garcinia mangostana Pericarp through Computational, in vitro and in vivo Approach

Background: The aqueous crude extract of Garcinia mangostana fruit pericarp was already proven to contain antiurolithiatic property. Based on this previous study the current study was focused on analysing the anti-urolithiatic property of α- mangostin, a xanthone polyphenol isolated from the fruit pericarp of G. manostana, which has not been tested for its anti-urolithiatic property till now.&#x0D; Objective: The aim of this present study is to evaluate the anti-urolithiatic property of the isolated α- mangostin from G. mangostana fruit pericarp using in silico, in vitro and in vivo analysis.&#x0D; Study Design: Antiurolithiatic activity of α- mangostin through Molecular docking study à In vitro S.S.M model study à Animal studies.&#x0D; Place and Duration: Department of Biotechnology, Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, Post Bag No.1, Pennalur, Sriperumbudur Tk, Kancheepuram Dt, TN-602117, India.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: In silico Molecular docking of α- mangostin with Kidney stone forming proteins- Xanthine dehydrogenase (Xdh), Oxalate oxidase and Tamm-Horesefall Protein (THP) were performed using AutoDock 4.0 and was visualised in Discovery studio software. In vitro Simultaneous Static flow Model (S.S.M) was performed to investigate its Antiurolithiatic property against Calcium Oxalate (CaOx) and Calcium Phosphate (CaP) crystals. Based on the in silico and in vitro analysis, the study was extrapolated to Ethylene Glycol (EG) induced urolithiasis rat models. The animal study was performed with 36 Albino Wistar rats which were divided into 6 groups. All group except group I received EG (0.75% in drinking water) for the induction of Urolithiasis for 28 days under curative regimen. Group III was administered orally with Cystone (750 mg/kg) from 15th to 28thday. Group IV to VI was administered orally with GMPE (300 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg and 750 mg/kg) from 15thto 28th day.&#x0D; Results: Molecular Docking studies showed an inhibitory interaction of α- mangostin with oxalate oxidase, Xdh and THP with binding affinity of -4.47, -4.00 and -3.41 Kcal/mol respectively. S.S.M showed 54.71% inhibition for CaOx crystals and 62.21% inhibition of CaP crystals. The animal studies showed significant results in reduction of serum calcium (P&lt;0.01), serum phosphate (P&lt;0.01), urine calcium(P&lt;0.001) and urine phosphate(P&lt;0.01).&#x0D; Conclusion: Thus, α- mangostin proved to be potent Anti-urolithiatic agent by reducing and disintegrating the urinary crystals.

Hg(II) sensing, catalytic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer potential of Garcinia mangostana and α-mangostin mediated silver nanoparticles

This study reports synthesis of Garcinia mangostana fruit pericarp (unwanted waste material) and α-mangostin mediated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). These AgNPs were efficiently produced using 1:10 (extract and salt) ratio under stirring and heating, which was confirmed by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band in UV–Visible spectroscopic analysis, and size of 73–91 nm determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The synthesized AgNPs were used for Hg(II) detection in tap water, where the limits of detection and quantification were 2.6 μM and 8.9 μM, respectively. Furthermore, the subject AgNPs showed promising catalytic activity in the reduction of dyes and food colours including Congo red (CR), methylene blue (MB), malachite green (MG), methyl orange (MO), para-nitrophenol (PNP), rhodamine B (RdB), zarda yellow (ZY), deep green (DG), and bright red (BR). The synthesized AgNPs were also evaluated for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties, where α-mangostin and its nanoparticles (Mang-AgNPs) exhibited promising IC50 values of 14.1 and 13.5 μg/mL, respectively against DU-145 cell line validated by in silico molecular docking study. This study is the first report highlighting the application of AgNPs of G. mangostana fruit pericarp extracts, and α-mangostin in Hg(II) detection, dyes degradation, and anticancer potential against DU-145. Finding of this study suggested the suitability of AgNPs as promising solid biosensor in Hg(II) metal detection, dyes reduction, and target in anticancer drug development.

Defluoridation of aqueous solution using raw and surface modified biosorbents prepared from adansonia digitata fruit pericarp

In some parts of Tanzania, there are higher fluoride concentrations in water bodies that affect public health. This work reports on water defluoridation using bio-sorbents prepared from Adansonia digitata fruit pericarp which is an agricultural waste. The raw and surface modified Adansonia digitata fruit pericarps were prepared, characterized, and used for defluoridation of the aqueous solution. The surface-modified adsorbent has better physical and chemical characteristics for bio-sorption. FT-IR spectra of adsorbents revealed that carboxyl, hydroxyls, carbonyls, and halogen groups are present on the adsorbent. The maximum removal efficiencies of raw and surface-modified bio-sorbents were 67.61 and 91.91% respectively which means surface modified bio-sorbent is effective for the removal of fluoride. Maximum adsorption efficiency was achieved with an initial concentration of 27.50 mg/L, the final concentrations of fluoride after adsorption were 8.907 and 2.225 mg/L for RADFP and SMADFP respectively. The adsorption capacity, q0 of RADFP and SMADFP are 0.2475 and 0.3173 mg/g, respectively. The values adsorption intensity, n is 1.3988 for RADFP and 1.1714 for SMADFP which lies between 1 and 10 indicating a favorable adsorption process. The adsorption data fitted well with the Freundlich adsorption model and Pseudo second order kinetics. Therefore, the surface-modified Adansonia digitata fruit pericarp is a potential bio-sorbent for the removal of fluoride ions from water.

Morphoanatomical and histochemical studies of the seed development of Euterpe oleracea (Arecaceae)

Abstract Although the consumption of açaí (Euterpe oleracea) pulp has long been an important component of the diet of the peoples from the Amazon, the açaí palm tree has recently attracted economic and scientific interest because of its vast array of bioactive compounds found in the fruit pericarp. The açaí seeds are the largest byproduct after pulp extraction and have potential for use in ethanol production, but this process is hindered by limited knowledge of seed biology, chemical composition and pattern reserve deposition during seed development. The aim of this work was to describe the morphoanatomical development of the seeds, as well as to identify the main organic compounds stored in the seeds. To achieve this goal, histological and histochemical analyses were performed on developing seeds. Results showed the seed is albuminous, bitegmic and that ingrowths of the seed coat give rise to a ruminate endosperm. Moreover, the nutritive reserves of açaí seeds are found in the endosperm thickened cell walls as reserve polysaccharides. Our findings provide information for future studies dealing with reproductive biology, propagation and the improvement of this profitable crop.

Polyphenolic Components and Composition Differences of Fruit Polyphenols in Apple Landraces Grown in Cold Regions

The composition and content of polyphenols in fruit pericarp and pulp &nbsp;of 12 Apple landraces grown &nbsp;of Heilongjiang Province were determined by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UPLC), and the differences in the composition and content characteristics of polyphenols in different varieties were studied, and the main factor analysis and cluster analysis were carried out. The results showed that 5 kinds of 20 kinds of polyphenols were detected in 12 Apple landraces , the main phenolic substances in pericarp were epicatechin and catechin, and the main phenolic substances in pulp were chlorogenic acid, catechin and procyanidin. There were significant differences in the composition and content of polyphenols among different varieties, the smallest coefficient of variation was quercetin 3-glucoside (37.48%), and the largest coefficient of variation was rutin (267.18%). It was found that the content of proanthocyanidins in pericarp and pulp was higher by principal component analysis. Based on the content of polyphenol components, it was found that the results of pulp clustering were more consistent with the field phenotypic identification results and kinship. The results provide data support and theoretical basis for processing and utilization of phenolic substances and breeding of local varieties in Heilongjiang province.

Exploitation of Heterosis among Phenotypically Diverse Capsicum Parents for Important Fruit Traits

HIGHLIGHTS The effect of phenotypic distance between parental lines on the yield of C. annuum var. annuum × C. annuum var. grossum F1 hybrids was assessed. Simultaneously, the target of the research was transferring of the GMS ms10 gene from hot pepper to heat tolerant bell pepper inbreds. Over the BP, the hybrid MS-12 × PAU SM-31 was found to be superior in respect of total fruit yield plant-1 and pericarp thickness.

Defluoridation of Aqueous Solution Using Thermally Activated Biosorbents Prepared from Adansonia digitata Fruit Pericarp

The presence of fluoride ions in water poses a significant danger to human health. In Tanzania, where the Rift Valley passes, some people are impaired due to elevated levels of fluoride in water. The purpose of this study was to prepare thermally activated Adansonia digitata fruit pericarp biosorbents at 450, 500, 550, and 600°C for defluoridation. Using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analyzer, the surface area and pore diameter were measured. The scanning electron microscope and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry were used to determine morphological features and functional groups of biosorbents. To analyze the effect of pH, adsorbent dose, contact time, and initial concentration, the response surface methodology was applied. Adsorption isotherms, kinetics, and regeneration studies were also conducted. There were considerably wide surface areas of 385.44, 399.27, 445.71, and 447.70 m2/g and pore diameters of 0.3055, 3.0341, 3.0375, and 3.0471 nm for biosorbents activated at 450, 500, 550, and 600°C, respectively. FT-IR spectra indicated the oxidation of alcoholic –OH to carboxylic –OH during the activation process, which is proved by the shifting of the peak at 3500-3000 cm-1 from raw biosorbent to a very broad and strong band at 3500-2000 cm-1 from the activated biosorbent. The maximum removal efficiencies of biosorbents activated at 450, 500, 550, and 600°C were 95.55, 96.50, 97.65, and 98.36%, respectively, for all biosorbents at a pH of 2, an initial concentration of 27.50 ppm, a contact period of 75.00 minutes, and an adsorbent dose of 5.50 g, which indicates that the adsorbents were successful for fluoride removal. The isotherms and kinetics indicated that the adsorption fitted well with Freundlich ([Formula: see text]) and pseudo-second-order ([Formula: see text]) kinetic adsorption models, respectively. The results showed that the removal of fluoride by biosorbents prepared is effective and could be used for defluoridation of drinking water.

Antihyperglycemic and Antioxidant Potential of Plant Extract of Litchi chinensis and Glycine max

Background: Diabetes mellitus, an endocrine disease, is a major health concern all over the world. Litchi chinensis Gaertn. and Glycine max (L.) Merr have been traditionally used in Chinese medicines for the treatment of various disorders. The present study was carried out to explore the antioxidant and antihyperglycemic potential of ethyl acetate and hydroethanolic extracts of L. chinensis fruit pericarp and G. max seed coats. Methods: Phytoconstituents of ethyl acetate and hydroethanolic extracts of L. chinensis fruit pericarp and G. max seed coat were investigated using preliminary qualitative techniques. In vitro and in vivo antioxidant potential of ethyl acetate and hydroethanolic extracts was assessed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) free radical scavenging, reducing power assays, total phenol content, glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). In vivo antihyperglycemic activity was assessed using alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Blood glucose levels were evaluated on 0, 7th, 14th, and 28th day of the study. Results: Hydroethanolic extracts of both plants exhibited superior antioxidant activity to ethyl acetate extract. A marked increase in levels of serum glucose was observed in diabetic rats. Ethyl acetate and hydroalcoholic extract treatment for 28 days accounted for decreased blood glucose levels in hyperglycemic rats. Conclusions: The present study suggests that ethyl acetate and hydroethanolic extracts of L. chinensis fruit pericarp and G. max seed coats possess potent antioxidant antihyperglycemic activities and have potential as a therapeutic agent in diabetes.

Influence of Propylene Glycol Concentrations in Mangostin Pericarp Extract Gels Formulation: Gels Physical Characteristics, Antibacterial Activity Against Staphylococcus aureus, and Functional Antioxidant Activity Based on Radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl Scavenging Activity

Mangostin (Garcinia mangostana L.) fruit pericarp (GMP) extract has been shown to have antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate gel formulations of GMP extract using sodium carboxymethylcellulose as a gelling agent and propylene glycol (PG) in varying concentrations (i.e. 0-40%). GMP extract was evaluated for total mangostin content and antioxidant activity based on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging method. Physical gel characteristics were also examined. All gels had similar pH and spreadability, however, gel with 40% PG produced significantly lower viscosity. Antibacterial activities against S.aureus were shown to be the same among GMP extract gels. The antioxidant activity of all GMP extract gels could be confirmed based on the radical DPPH scavenging method. PG content of 40% significantly reduced the increase of GMP extract gel viscosity after being stored for four weeks at room temperature. Additionally, the lowest syneresis was also shown for GMP extract gel with 40% PG content.

CARACTERÍSTICAS MORFOLÓGICAS Y DETERMINACIÓN DE MINERALES POR μ-XRF EN FRUTO DE CALABAZA (Cucurbita moschata DUCH)

En la península de Yucatán, México, el sistema milpa involucra una interacción de siembra de dos o tres especies de plantas principales como el maíz (Zea mays), el frijol (Phaseolus vulgaris) y la calabaza (Cucurbita argyrosperma o C. moschata). Sin embargo, en algunas regiones solo se cultiva maíz y C. moschata. Esta calabaza puede mostrar formas, tamaños y colores diversos en una sola plantación, debido a que los productores siembran distintos cultivares de la misma especie. Esta especie se consume fresca, como verdura, y las semillas de la fruta seca se usan en platillos regionales y dulces. El objetivo de este estudio fue caracterizar la morfología y la composición mineral de la calabaza. La hipótesis fue que las variantes de calabaza C. moschata cultivadas presentan variación morfológica, la cual está presente en el contenido de los minerales en semillas y en el fruto. Para este estudio se recolectaron seis variantes de calabaza cultivadas en dos parcelas de Conkal, Yucatán, México. Las evaluaciones incluyeron las características morfológicas de la fruta y la composición mineral en semillas, pericarpio y mesocarpio, mediante análisis μ-XRF. Las variantes de C. moschata presentan morfología diferente (semillas y frutos). El contenido de minerales en semillas y fruta (pericarpio y mesocarpio) presentó diferencias significativas entre las variantes. La variante CA4 presentó contenido alto de P, K, Mg, Fe, Cu, Mn y Zn. Variantes se identificaron con características sobresalientes en semillas y característica de los frutos (tamaño, forma, y grosor de la pulpa). El contenido de minerales mostró diferencias entre las variantes de calabazas C. moschata cultivadas en las dos parcelas de Conkal.

Opportunistic Food Habits of the Raccoon Dog — A Case Study on Suwazaki Peninsula, Shikoku, Western Japan

Despite of great variation of food habits of the raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) on the Japanese archipelago, information of the food habits of them in the warm temperate zone in southern Japan is limited. The food habits of them on Suwazaki Peninsula in western Shikoku Island, southwestern Japan, were studied using fecal analysis. The sampling period spanned May 2019 to April 2020. The point-frame method was adopted. Fruits (pericarp and pulp) were important, accounting for > 30% in autumn and > 20% in winter. The fruit of Aphananthe aspera was particularly important, but various fruits were eaten in seasonal succession, and many fleshy tree fruits in the warm temperate zone were utilized. Insects were also important, accounting for > 20% in spring, summer, and early winter. Mandarin oranges comprised about 40% of the diet in late winter. Mammals and birds were less utilized than in other areas. The food habits of raccoon dogs on Suwazaki Peninsula were characterized by the diverse fruits and insects of the warm temperate zone together with cultivated mandarin oranges. These results suggest the opportunistic food habits of the raccoon dog.

Prenylated xanthones from mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) activate the AhR and Nrf2 pathways and protect intestinal barrier integrity in HT-29 cells

Xanthones from the tropical fruit mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) display anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities. Here, we isolate and identify potential inducers of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathways from mangosteen using a bioassay-guided strategy. Mangosteen fruit pericarp extracts were subjected to sequential solvent extractions, followed by chromatography coupled with NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometric analyses for identification and isolation of pure compounds. Isolation of active fractions led to seven prenylated xanthones that were identified and subsequently evaluated for bioactivity. In vitro luciferase reporter cellular assays using H1L6.1c3 (AhR induction) and HepG2-ARE (Nrf2 induction) were used to identify AhR and Nrf2 activators. All seven prenylated xanthones displayed AhR inducing activity, whereas only five xanthones activated Nrf2. Garcinone D (GarD) significantly upregulated AhR/Cyp1a1 and Nrf2/HO-1 protein expression and enhanced zonula occludens-1 and occludin protein levels in HT-29 cells. In addition, GarD inhibited oxidative stress-induced intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction by enhancing tight junction (TJ) proteins and inhibition of reactive oxygen species production. Inhibition of AhR by pretreating cells with an AhR antagonist revealed that the AhR pathway is required for the improved epithelial barrier functions of GarD. These results highlight a dual mechanism by GarD that confers protection against intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction.

Botanical, Chemical and Pharmacological Properties of Artocarpus lakoocha (Monkey Fruit): A Review

Artocarpus are members of the Moraceae family who are believed to be a large family comprises of nearly 60 genera and about 1400 species. The most important genus of the Moraceae family is Ficus, Morus and Artocarpus. The extract and bioactive compounds from bark, leaves, seeds and pericarp of monkey fruit have shown to possess exceptional phytochemical, nutritional and valuable pharmacological properties. This fruit is capable of offering numerous inhibitory factors such as antibacterial, antitubercular, antiviral, antifungal, antiplatelet, antiarthritic, tyrosinase inhibitory and cytotoxicity. This review devotes the complete overview of pharmacological and bioactive components exclusively found in the monkey fruit and its parts. However, fruit exhibits appreciable properties, but they are still unknown as well as underutilized. The remarkable properties of plants and the modern approaches are needed for the treatment of chronic diseases, the development of drugs and functional food products, or for the improvement of properties existed ones.

Genetic variability in peppers accessions based on morphological, biochemical and molecular traits

The evaluation of genetic diversity among the accessions of a germplasm collection results in information about promising materials suitable for breeding programs. Thus, the goal of this work was to characterize Capsicum baccatum accessions from different Brazilian regions, based on morphological, biochemical and molecular traits, aiming to support chili pepper breeding programs. The fruits were morphologically characterized based on fruit length, diameter, fresh mass and pericarp thickness, and biochemically analyzed for their content in ascorbic and phenolic acids, flavonoid and antioxidant activity by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. All phenotypic traits showed significant differences among the chili pepper accessions, indicating a wide variability. The fruits were also characterized using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) molecular markers. The combination of six AFLP primers resulted in 1117 bands, 1033 of which were polymorphic. Divergence between accessions was estimated by the Ward’s hierarchical agglomerative clustering method, resulting in three and two clusters for fruit phenotypic traits and molecular data, respectively. In Bayesian analysis, molecular data also clustered the accessions in two groups. There was no association between the phenotypic descriptors and AFLP markers, indicating that both characterizations are important to better understand the genetic variability. Furthermore, it was not possible to group the accessions solely based on their origin for neither phenotypic descriptors and AFLP markers. The accessions G1, G5, G6, and G20 showed interesting characteristics and can be used in breeding programs, aiming the development of Capsicum spp. cultivars with desirable morphological and biochemical traits.

Optimal Harvest Time for Preventing Hot Pepper Seed Browning during Cold Storage Is Associated with Seed Maturity

Chilling injury (CI), which causes seed browning in pepper, may arise following long-term cold storage, and is a major cause of postharvest losses. To explore potential strategies of minimizing the associated postharvest losses, the present study investigated the optimal pepper harvest time that could reduce levels of seed browning, in addition to the relationship between fruit maturity and seed browning. Fruits harvested 15 days after flowering (DAF) were sensitive to cold storage at 4 °C and exhibited 100% seed browning (CI index, 4.0); in contrast, the seed browning rate of fruits harvested 35 DAF was 10% (CI index, 0.4) within 7 days of cold storage. Seed antioxidant activity was higher in seeds harvested at early stages (15 DAF to 20 DAF) than in seeds harvested at later stages (40 DAF to 50 DAF) at the beginning of storage. Pericarps of fruit harvested at 50 DAF exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. Lipoxygenase, catalase, and peroxidase activity, and the expression levels of cell wall-related genes, pectin methylesterase-like protein, and endo-β-1,4-glucanase were higher in seeds of immature fruit harvested 15 DAF than in seeds of mature fruit harvested 35 DAF. The seeds of the fruit harvested 35 DAF were fully developed with the seed coat separated from the endosperm and did not turn brown under low-temperature storage. The lack of seed browning observed in mature fruit under low-temperature storage could be attributed to physical protection provided by the seed coat rather than cold stress resistance conferred by antioxidants.