Plant Sources Research Articles

Biogenic synthesis of silica nanoparticles from industrial hemp waste for sustainable applications: Characterization and potential environmental benefits

SiO2, commonly referred to as silica, represents a versatile material utilized across various domains including biomedical, construction, food, energy, and cosmetic sectors. This study is anticipated to offer insights into the synthesis of SiO2-NP from industrial hemp waste, thus contributing to sustainability efforts and waste management systems. Within this investigation, SiO2-NP were biogenically synthesized utilizing waste leaves from industrial hemp, a sustainable plant source. The biogenically synthesized SiO2-NP underwent characterization via several techniques including UV–visible absorption spectroscopy (UV–Vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersion X-ray Spectrometer (EDX), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis. The UV–Vis spectrum indicated an absorption peak of 360 nm for SiO2-NP. XRD analysis determined an average particle size of 28 nm. SEM analysis revealed spherical morphology of the synthesized SiO2-NP. Additionally, EDX analysis unveiled a composition consisting of 50.6 % O and 27.2 % Si. SiO2-NP exhibited antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria strains. According to anticancer activity analyses, IC50 doses of SiO2-NP in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells were found to be 146.73 ± 7.54 and 54.93 ± 5.54, respectively, for 48 h. After treating the cells with these doses, an increase in the expression of apoptosis-related genes was detected. The SiO2-NP has an IC50 value with 2.69 ± 0.42 mg/mL against AChE enzyme activity.

Re-processing of pharmaceutical herb residues using isolated probiotics from plant sources and their beneficial effects on diarrhea

This study aims to use hot aqueous extract of herbal residue (HRE) to enhance bacterial growth and possess anti-diarrheal effects. In this study, lactobacillus species L. brevis (SAM-1), Lactobacillus plantarum (SAM-2), and Lactobacillus herbinensis (SAM-3) were isolated from date palm sap (collected in winter season). Square Pharmaceuticals PLC, Bangladesh provided herbal residues ‘Adovas’ which is non-sedating herbal cough syrup with sixteen common herbs including Adhatoda vasica. In our observation, HRE increased the number of colonies in MRS media. In the anti-diarrheal study by castor oil and magnesium sulphate-induced diarrheal mouse model, SAM-1 and 2 with or without HRE showed almost similar results. After initial morphological characterization, tests such as resistance to low pH, bile salt and survival capability in gastric simulated fluid (GSF) were performed to confirm them as a probiotic candidate. All three isolates were gram-positive bacteria and could grow in a mesophilic range of temperatures. The isolates were catalase-negative and were able to coagulate milk after overnight incubation. As the isolates exhibited resistance to low pH and could tolerate bile salts, they may survive in the stomach and intestine, thus making them a promising probiotic candidate. The isolated probiotics and HRE inhibited diarrheal and restored the body's electrolytes. Interestingly, SAM-2 showed higher efficacy than the standard drug (Loperamide), while SAM-1 showed a similar effect and SAM-3, had less effect than Loperamide. The findings suggest that probiotics and herbal residue could contribute to diarrhoeal disease prevention, which might be an alternative to a synthetic standard drug (Loperamide).

Heterotrigona itama workers bees homing ability as the basis for colony placement

Abstract. Rusdimansyah R, Khasrad K, Jaswandi J, Rusfidra R, Aulia D. 2024. Heterotrigona itama workers bees homing ability as the basis for colony placement. Biodiversitas 25: 2478-2483. This study aimed to evaluate the ability of Heterotrigona itama worker bees to return to the nest from various test distances. This research is an observational study using the translocation method. There were 550 individuals of H. itama worker bees from 5 colonies reared for over two years. Each worker bee sample was identified with a mark in the form of water-based paint before being released at a testing distance every 100 meters until a distance where no more worker bees returned. The camera with a macro lens is installed at the entrance to the beehive to record worker bees returning to the hive. The video recording process was carried out over 90 minutes. The parameters observed included environmental temperature and humidity, the number of worker bees returning, and the time required for worker bees to return from each test distance. The data obtained were analyzed using Chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney U-test. The research showed that the maximum distance that H. itama worker bees can travel to return to the nest was 1000 meters. However, the most effective return distance was more than 500 meters because although some worker bees can return from greater distances, the number of returns significantly decreases after passing 500 meters. Therefore, the ideal distance for placing a colony of H. itama is less than 500 meters from the source of bee food plants. The minimum distance to move a colony from the initial location to a new location is around 1100 meters.

Optimal multi-period source-sink matching in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) systems under neutrosophic environment

Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) is an important technology for mitigating the effect of climate change. It involves the capture of CO2 from a point source, transport it through pipelines and store it in geological reservoirs for permanent storage. CCUS enables the use of fossil fuel-based power plant sources that produce a steady amount of energy and the reduction of CO2 emissions from these sources simultaneously. While CO2 sources are easy to characterize, the storage parameters of geological reservoirs are more difficult to measure, thus, estimates are provided and used for planning large-scale CCUS systems. CO2 utilization can provide a means to delay CO2 emissions by converting it highly valuable products, however, its sequestration potential is highly uncertain. A systematic mathematical approach is needed to effectively plan CCUS systems considering the risks associated with the estimates in the characteristics of the geological reservoir and the sequestration benefits from CO2 utilization. In this study, an optimization model is developed for planning multi-period CCUS systems under neutrosophic environment. The model considers managing storage risk by maximizing satisfaction from minimizing risks, minimizing dissatisfaction from consequences brought by these risks, and minimizing indeterminacy from inaccuracy of storage characteristics estimates. For utilization, the model considers the satisfaction for CO2 utilization benefits, dissatisfaction for opportunity losses, and indeterminacy in sequestration potential. Two case studies are used to illustrate the model where a sensitivity analysis is performed to illustrate the effect of the different risk appetite on the optimal solution. These cases studies reveal important insights on scheduling operations between CO2 sources and sinks and the allocation of captured CO2 for storage and utilization. The model can be used to develop policies for considering the risks associated with these uncertainties and how it will be managed.

Exploring Anthocyanins: Unveiling Sources, Analytical Techniques, and Biological Activities.

Anthocyanins (ANCs) are obtained from pigmented foods like blueberry, strawberry, and red cabbage and are phenolic compounds belonging to the flavonoids family. ANCs have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their diverse biological activities and potential health benefits. This comprehensive review presents a holistic exploration of anthocyanins, spanning from their chemical structure and biosynthesis pathways to the myriad analytical techniques employed for their identification and quantification. Furthermore, the rich tapestry of plant sources yields anthocyanins is delved into, highlighting their incorporation into various pharmaceutical formulations. This review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge on anthocyanins, spanning from their origins in nature to their multifaceted pharmacological activities and innovative pharmaceutical applications. </p>.

Pollen products collected from honey bee hives experiencing minor stress have altered fungal communities and reduced antimicrobial properties.

Fungi are increasingly recognised to play diverse roles within honey bee hives, acting as pathogens, mutualists, and commensals. Pollen products, essential for hive nutrition, host significant fungal communities with potential protective and nutritional benefits. In this study, we profile the fungal communities and antifungal properties of three pollen products from healthy and stressed hives: fresh pollen collected by forager bees from local plants; stored pollen packed into the comb inside the hive; and bee bread, which is stored pollen following anaerobic fermentation used for bee and larval nutrition. Using amplicon sequencing, we found significant differences in fungal community composition, with hive health and sample type accounting for 8.8% and 19.3% of variation in beta diversity, respectively. Pollen and bee bread extracts had species-specific antimicrobial activity and inhibited the fungal hive pathogens Ascosphaera apis, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus fumigatus, and the bacterial hive pathogen Paenibacillus larvae. Activity was positively correlated with phenolic and antioxidant content and was diminished in stressed hives. The plant source of pollen determined by amplicon sequencing differed in stressed hives, suggesting altered foraging behaviour. These findings illustrate the complex interplay between honey bees, fungal communities, and hive products, which should be considered in hive management and conservation.

Multi-functional application of octacosanol as a feed additive in animal and aquaculture: A review.

Demand for sustainable animal and aquaculture production drives the exploration of novel feed additives. We highlight octacosanol, a long-chain alcohol from plant sources, as a promising multifunctional feed additive. The review comprehensively evaluates octacosanol's applications in animal and aquaculture nutrition, including its molecular properties and mechanisms of action. It elucidates how octacosanol affects lipid metabolism, energy utilization and immune modulation. Octacosanol enhances livestock growth, efficiency, carcass quality and stress resilience. We thoroughly discuss how it enhances feed utilization, disease resistance and overall performance in finfish and shellfish in aquaculture. The review also addresses the ecological and sustainability aspects of octacosanol utilization. We identify challenges and knowledge gaps in octacosanol research, prompting suggestions for future investigations. We address regulatory considerations, dosage optimization and potential interactions with other feed additives to ensure the safe and effective use of octacosanol. In conclusion, the review highlights octacosanol's potential as a versatile feed additive in the animal and aquaculture industries and urges further research to uncover its benefits and sustainability contributions, proposing a prospective research plan for this purpose. This thorough analysis is a valuable resource for researchers, nutritionists and industry professionals looking to find innovative methods to improve production practices and advance sustainable food systems.

Clean labelling sodium nitrite at pilot scale: In-situ reduction of nitrate from plant sources and its effects on the overall quality and safety of restructured cooked ham

Growing health and environmental concerns have increased demand for all-natural products, with a focus on clean labelling. Sodium nitrite is the most widely used additive in the meat industry because it imparts the typical cured flavour and colour to meat products and, most importantly, their microbiological safety. However, due to health concerns, the European Commission is proposing revised regulations to reduce nitrate and nitrite levels in meat products. As a result, the meat industry is actively seeking alternatives. This study explored the production of four cooked hams utilising nitrate-rich vegetable sources combined with two different nitrate-reducing commercial food cultures, alongside a control ham prepared with sodium nitrite (150 ppm). Microbiological, physico-chemical (pH, water activity, nitrate and nitrite concentration, lipid profile, lipid oxidation) and sensory (texture and colour profile) characterisation of the products was carried out. Challenge tests for Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridium sporogenes and Clostridium perfringens have been performed to assess the growth of pathogens, if present in the products. Results revealed comparable microbiological and physico-chemical profiles across ham formulations, with minor differences observed in colour parameters for sample C. The sensory analysis showed that for the pilot ham formulations A and D, there were no significant differences in consumer perception compared to the control ham. In the challenge tests, L. monocytogenes levels were similar in both control and tested hams. There were no significant differences in C. sporogenes and C. perfringens counts at any temperature or between test and control samples. These results indicate that this technology has a potential future in the cured meat sector, as regulators mandate the reduction of added synthetic chemicals and consumers seek healthier and more natural ingredients in their daily diets.

Distribution, sources and ecological risks of PAHs and n-alkanes in water and sediments of typically polluted estuaries: Insights from the Xiaoqing River

Seasonal water and sediment samples were collected from the Xiaoqing River estuary and the neighboring sea to study the spatial and temporal distributions, sources and ecological risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and n-alkanes. The results showed significant spatial and temporal differences in the concentrations of PAHs and n-alkanes under the influence of precipitation, temperature, and human activities. The concentrations of PAHs in water were lower in the wet season than in the dry season, and those in sediments were higher in the wet season than in the dry season. The concentrations of n-alkanes were higher in the rainy season than in the dry season for both water and sediments. The spatial distributions of PAHs and n-alkanes were estuarine > offshore. The concentration ranges of ∑PAHs in water and sediments were 230.66–599.86 ng/L and 84.51–5548.62 ng/g, respectively, in the wet season and 192.46–8649.55 ng/L and 23.39–1208.92 ng/g, respectively, in the dry season. The proportion of three-ring PAHs in water (57.03% and 78.27% in the wet and dry seasons, respectively) was high, followed by two-ring PAHs (27.31% and 13.59% in the wet and dry seasons, respectively). The proportion of four-ring PAHs was higher in sediments (24.79% and 32.20% in the wet and dry seasons, respectively). The ecological risk of PAHs assessed using the toxicity equivalent quotient and risk quotient was at moderate to moderately high risk levels. The high concentration of n-alkane fraction C16 (611.65–75594.58 ng/L) in the water is indicative of petroleum or other fossil fuel inputs. The main peaks of n-alkanes in river sediments were C27, C29 and C31, indicating higher inputs of plant sources. The sediments in the estuary showed dominance of both short-chain C16 and long-chain C25–C31, indicating a combined input of higher plants and petroleum. The diagnostic ratios of PAHs and n-alkanes indicated that their sources were mainly oil/coal/biomass combustion and petroleum spills attributed to frequent vehicular, vessel and mariculture activities. Given the potential ecological risks of PAHs and n-alkanes in water and sediments, future studies should focus on their bioaccumulation and biotoxicity.

Formulation of Mouthwash Using Combined Herbal Extracts to Control the Predominant Oral Pathogens and Biofilm

IntroductionGlobally, oral disease is a major health problem, which affects the quality of life. The role of oral microflora in the oral diseases is well established. However, with the increase in the frequency of oral disease, the development of antimicrobial drug resistance to the existing drugs has insisted on searching for alternative drugs from plant sources. Herein, herbal-based mouthwash is formulated to effectively control the dominant oral pathogens. MethodsThe antimicrobial activity of plant extracts was evaluated against oral pathogens by zone of inhibition test. Mouthwash was formulated with one gram of each plant extracts (Rosa damascena flower petals, Coleus amboinicus leaves, Psidium guajava leaves, and Phyllanthus acidus fruits) in 10% ethanol. Antimicrobial efficacy of the formulated mouthwash was assessed against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans by standard protocol. Also, the antibiofilm effect of the formulated mouthwash was assessed against preformed S mutans biofilm and visualised using SEM and CLSM. ResultsThe formulated mouthwash exhibits excellent broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. The minimum inhibitory concentration result indicates that the susceptibility of the pathogens was found as follows: S aureus <S mutans <C albicans <E faecalis <E coli. Also, it shows a great anti-inflammatory effect. SEM and CLSM images reveal that the formulated mouthwash has the potential to inhibit the oral biofilm of S. mutants. ConclusionsThis study concludes that the formulated herbal-based mouthwash might be useful in controlling multiple oral pathogens and biofilms.

Hydrogen production to combat power surpluses in hybrid hydro–wind–photovoltaic power systems

The complementary operation of hydropower, photovoltaic, and wind power can promote the integration of renewable energy resources into the grid. However, the competition of power transmission channels among multiple energy raises surpluses significantly. This study equips a hydrogen production plant for the hydro–wind–PV hybrid system to utilize the power surplus. First, a multi-scale nested joint operation model that considers both long-term and short-term operation strategies is proposed to simulate the operation process of the hybrid system. Then, the potential surplus of the system is evaluated and used as the power source of the hydrogen production plant. Lastly, the optimal hydrogen production plant size is determined based on economic and technical analysis. A case study is performed with the Yalong River basin of China. The results show that (McElroy and Chen, 2017 (1)) The deployment of a 260 MW hydrogen production system has the potential to boost the annual power generation benefit of the hybrid system by 610 million CNY； (2) The fluctuation of hydropower station output is effectively reduced, subsequently mitigating operational risks. Especially during flood season, the power variation coefficient experiences a notable decrease of approximately 75%； Liu and Xu (2022) (3) The deployment of hydrogen production plants is more economically feasible than expanding power transmission channels, particularly when considering long-distance power transmission. Furthermore, given that hydrogen production plants frequently operate under fluctuating power conditions, the electrolyzers and compressors must exhibit prompt responsiveness to these power variations.

Preparative Fractionation of Brazilian Red Propolis Extract Using Step-Gradient Counter-Current Chromatography.

Propolis is a resinous bee product with a very complex composition, which is dependent upon the plant sources that bees visit. Due to the promising antimicrobial activities of red Brazilian propolis, it is paramount to identify the compounds responsible for it, which, in most of the cases, are not commercially available. The aim of this study was to develop a quick and clean preparative-scale methodology for preparing fractions of red propolis directly from a complex crude ethanol extract by combining the extractive capacity of counter-current chromatography (CCC) with preparative HPLC. The CCC method development included step gradient elution for the removal of waxes (which can bind to and block HPLC columns), sample injection in a single solvent to improve stationary phase stability, and a change in the mobile phase flow pattern, resulting in the loading of 2.5 g of the Brazilian red propolis crude extract on a 912.5 mL Midi CCC column. Three compounds were subsequently isolated from the concentrated fractions by preparative HPLC and identified by NMR and high-resolution MS: red pigment, retusapurpurin A; the isoflavan 3(R)-7-O-methylvestitol; and the prenylated benzophenone isomers xanthochymol/isoxanthochymol. These compounds are markers of red propolis that contribute to its therapeutic properties, and the amount isolated allows for further biological activities testing and for their use as chromatographic standards.

Development and Evaluation of Vegan Yogurts and Sour Milk Alternatives from White Lupin (Lupinus albus L.)

Cow milk allergy (CMA) triggers a clinically abnormal immunological response to cow milk proteins. To address this issue, extensive studies have explored milk alternatives from various animal and plant sources. This study introduces a method for producing white lupin milk, resulting in fermented dairy-like products (vegan yogurt and sour milk alternatives). Four commercial yogurt cultures, including two mesophilic (CHN-11, CHN-22) and two thermophilic (YC-380, YC-X11) mixed bacterial cultures, were tested, with thermophilic ones yielding superior sensory outcomes for lupin-based yogurt alternatives. Incorporating inulin (2%) enhanced sensory appeal, particularly evident in strawberry and peach-flavoured variants, which achieved sensory scores comparable to cow milk yogurts. Furthermore, white lupin-based yogurts demonstrated superior water-holding capacity (up to 47.11 g/100 g in comparison with 42.35 g/100 g measured for cow milk yogurt), influencing texture and mouthfeel. They also exhibited favourable fatty acid profiles, notably rich in beneficial unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic and linolenic acid (up to 10.15% and 8.43%, respectively), indicating potential health benefits. Sensory evaluation underscored the impact of starter cultures on product attributes, with certain cultures yielding more favourable results. In conclusion, white lupin emerges as a promising alternative protein source with the potential to produce high-quality dairylike products. While white lupin-based products hold promise as functional foods for individuals with specific dietary needs, further research is necessary to address potential allergenic concerns associated with white lupin proteins.

Efficacy of nanoencapsulated Moringa oleifera L. seeds and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. leaves extracts incorporated in functional soft cheese on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

BackgroundIn recent years, there has been significant interest in using various plant-based phytochemicals with exceptional biological activities as nutraceuticals to prevent the development and advancement of diabetes mellitus and its severe consequences. The extracts of Moringa oleifera L. seeds and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. leaves are used in herbal therapy due to their beneficial effects in combating various disorders, notably diabetes mellitus PurposeThe paper aimed to investigate the incorporation of both free Moringa oleifera L. seed extract and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. leaves extract and nanoencapsulated using whey protein isolate cold gelation ultra-filtration cheese as natural plant-based functional foods and explore both free and nano-encapsulated ultra-filtration cheese impacts as a novel application on diabetic rats through nutritional parameters, biochemical parameters, physicochemical parameters, and sensory evaluation. MethodsThirty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were given only one dose of streptozotocin (35 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally. The nutritional and biochemical parameters were assessed. The Moringa oleifera L. seed extract and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. leaves extract were successfully encapsulated, and the best ratio added was 75 mg of both, which gave the best results regarding particle size distribution, surface charge and encapsulation efficiency. ResultsThe Moringa oleifera L. seed extract and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. leaves extract gave the best results regarding particle size distribution, surface charge, and encapsulation efficiency. Their nano-encapsulated forms had increased the total solids, protein, and ash of ultra-filtration cheese. Moringa oleifera L. seed extract and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. leaves extract, nano-encapsulated in ultra-filtration cheese, gave antioxidant activity stability and significantly captured free radicals. The ultra-filtration cheese samples' sensory qualities evaluations received high marks and were suitable for incorporating Moringa oleifera L. seed extract and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. leaves extract nanoparticles in food systems. ConclusionThe nutritional and biochemical parameters confirmed that both nanoencapsulation forms of natural plant sources and functional soft cheese containing nano-encapsulated Moringa oleifera L. seed extract and Ocimum tenuiflorum L. leaves extract demonstrated a potential anti-hyperglycemic effect without any problems.

Preparation and Characterization of Lignin Nanoparticles from Different Plant Sources.

This article presents new research on producing lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) using the antisolvent nanoprecipitation method. Acetone (90%) served as the lignin solvent and water (100%) as the antisolvent, using five types of lignins from various sources. Comprehensive characterization techniques, including NMR, GPC, FTIR, TEM, and DLS, were employed to assess both lignin and LNP properties. The antioxidant activity of the LNPs was evaluated as well. The results demonstrated the successful formation of spherical nanoparticles below 100 nm with initial lignin concentrations of 1 and 2%w/v. The study highlighted the crucial role of lignin purity in LNP formation and colloidal stability, noting that residual carbohydrates adversely affect efficiency. This method offers a straightforward, environmentally friendly approach using cost-effective solvents, applicable to diverse lignin sources. The innovation of this study lies in its demonstration of a cost-effective and eco-friendly method to produce stable, nanometric-sized spherical LNPs. These LNPs have significant potential as reinforcement materials due to their reinforcing capability, hydrophilicity, and UV absorption. This work underscores the importance of starting material purity for optimizing the process and achieving the desired nanometric dimensions, marking a pioneering advancement in lignin-based nanomaterials.

Determination of resveratrol in nanoformulations using UV-spectroscopy: forced degradation and drug entrapment

Abstract Dietary polyphenols from plant sources play an important role in the human diet. They have various biological effects, such as protein kinase inhibition, antibacterial, anticancer, antiulcer, antiarthritic, and anti-angiogenic properties. Among the various phenolic chemicals found in plants, resveratrol (trans-3,5,4′-trihydroxystilbene) (RVT) is a non-flavonoid polyphenolic compound that has been extensively studied for its health-promoting advantages, including its anti-cancer, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardio-protective activities. Considering its potential in pharmaceutical nanoformulations, a rapid, economical, sensitive, and robust UV spectrophotometric method was developed and validated. The proposed method was developed in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 to estimate the RVT content in the pharmaceutical nanoformulation. The method was developed at a reported wavelength of 306 nm. The developed method was validated according to ICH Q2A (R1) guidelines and was applied for the estimation of RVT in prepared nanoformulations. The method showed exceptional linearity in the range of (1–6) μg mL−1 with a coefficient of determinant value of 0.9998. The study proves that the developed method is linear, precise, sensitive, robust, reproducible, and accurate. This method can be applied for the estimation of RVT in nanoformulations and other bulk dosage forms.

In silico prediction of polyketide biosynthetic gene clusters in the genomes of Hypericum-borne endophytic fungi

BackgroundThe search for new bioactive natural compounds with anticancer activity is still of great importance. Even though their potential for diagnostics and treatment of cancer has already been proved, the availability is still limited. Hypericin, a naphthodianthrone isolated essentially from plant source Hypericum perforatum L. along with other related anthraquinones and bisanthraquinones belongs to this group of compounds. Although it has been proven that hypericin is synthesized by the polyketide pathway in plants, none of the candidate genes coding for key enzymes has been experimentally validated yet. Despite the rare occurrence of anthraquinones in plants, their presence in microorganisms, including endophytic fungi, is quite common. Unlike plants, several biosynthetic genes grouped into clusters (BGCs) in fungal endophytes have already been characterized.ResultsThe aim of this work was to predict, identify and characterize the anthraquinone BGCs in de novo assembled and functionally annotated genomes of selected endophytic fungal isolates (Fusarium oxysporum, Plectosphaerella cucumerina, Scedosporium apiospermum, Diaporthe eres, Canariomyces subthermophilus) obtained from different tissues of Hypericum spp. The number of predicted type I polyketide synthase (PKS) BGCs in the studied genomes varied. The non-reducing type I PKS lacking thioesterase domain and adjacent discrete gene encoding protein with product release function were identified only in the genomes of C. subthermophilus and D. eres. A candidate bisanthraquinone BGC was predicted in C. subthermophilus genome and comprised genes coding the enzymes that catalyze formation of the basic anthraquinone skeleton (PKS, metallo-beta-lactamase, decarboxylase, anthrone oxygenase), putative dimerization enzyme (cytochrome P450 monooxygenase), other tailoring enzymes (oxidoreductase, dehydrogenase/reductase), and non-catalytic proteins (fungal transcription factor, transporter protein).ConclusionsThe results provide an insight into genetic background of anthraquinone biosynthesis in Hypericum-borne endophytes. The predicted bisanthraquinone gene cluster represents a basis for functional validation of the candidate biosynthetic genes in a simple eukaryotic system as a prospective biotechnological alternative for production of hypericin and related bioactive anthraquinones.

Dopamine-derived pigments in nature: identification of decarboxybetalains in Amaranthaceae species.

A unique family of decarboxylated betalains derived from dopamine has recently been discovered. Due to the lack of chemical standards, the existence and distribution of decarboxylated betalains in nature remain unknown. Traditional betalains contain L-dihydroxyphenylalanine as the starting point of the biosynthetic pathway and betalamic acid as a structural and functional unit, while the recently discovered betalains rely on dopamine. Here, 30 dopamine-derived betalains were biotechnologically produced, purified, and characterized, creating an unprecedented library to explore their properties and presence in nature. The maximum absorbance wavelengths for the pigments ranged between 461 and 485 nm. HPLC analysis showed retention times between 0.6 and 2.2 min higher than traditional betalains due to their higher hydrophobicity. The presence of decarboxybetalains in nature was screened using HPLC-ESI-Q-TOF mass spectrometry in various species of the Amaranthaceae family: beetroot (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris), Swiss chard (B. vulgaris var. cicla), celosia (Celosia argentea var. plumosa), and quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa). The latter species had the highest content of decarboxybetalains (28 compounds in its POEQ-143 variety). Twenty-nine pigments were found distributed among the different analyzed plant sources. The abundance of decarboxybetalains demonstrated in this work highlights these pigments as an important family of phytochemicals in the order Caryophyllales.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Diversity, Structure, Biosynthesis and Extraction of Biologically Active Tannins from Various Plant-Based Materials Using Deep Eutectic Solvents.

This paper explores the emerging subject of extracting tannins from various plant sources using deep eutectic solvents (DESs). Tannins are widely used in the food and feed industries as they have outstanding antioxidant qualities and greatly enhance the flavor and nutritional content of a wide range of food products. Organic solvents are frequently used in traditional extraction techniques, which raises questions about their safety for human health and the environment. DESs present a prospective substitute because of their low toxicity, adaptability, and environmental friendliness. The fundamental ideas supporting the application of DESs in the extraction of tannins from a range of plant-based materials frequently used in daily life are all well covered in this paper. Furthermore, this paper covers the impact of extraction parameters on the yield of extracted tannins, as well as possible obstacles and directions for future research in this emerging subject. This includes challenges such as high viscosity, intricated recovery of compounds, thermal degradation, and the occurrence of esterification. An extensive summary of the diversity, structure, biosynthesis, distribution, and roles of tannins in plants is given in this paper. Additionally, this paper thoroughly examines various bioactivities of tannins and their metabolites.

Diversity of plant-based food consumption: A systematic scoping review on measurement tools and associated health outcomes

Plant-based foods encompass all food products derived from plant sources, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, herbs and spices, and nuts and seeds, plant-based fats and oils (e.g. olive oil) and plant-based beverages (e.g. tea and coffee). Consumption of diverse plant-based foods is a dietary pattern that has gained significant attention amongst the public, due to its perceived benefits for maintenance of health(1). Plant-based foods provide a rich source of macronutrients, micronutrients and non-nutrient bio-actives that are often reported to improve health outcomes. Despite this, there are no standard definitions of plant-based diversity, or consensus on methods of measurement in nutrition research studies. The objective of the current research was to conduct a scoping review of the literature to identify studies investigating plant-based food diversity and it’s impact on human health outcomes, and to subsequently characterize a) definitions of plant-based diversity used, b) methods used to assess plant-based food intake, c) methods used to assess plant- based food diversity, and d) health outcomes assessed and key findings.Eligible studies were those investigating the relationship or impact of plant-based food diversity on any health related or lifestyle outcome, by any study design, in high income countries only. Studies were identified by systematic searches of two electronic databases and manual searches of reference lists. No restrictions were applied for language or year of publication. The review was performed in line with the guidelines for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (2).Forty-four studies were eligible for inclusion in this review. The majority of studies were observational in design (39/44; 87%) and included fruits and vegetables only in their definitions of plant-based food diversity (32/44, 72%). Methods of measurement of both plant-based food intake and diversity varied greatly among studies, with only four studies (9%) utilizing a tool validated for assessment of plant-based food diversity in their population of interest. Health outcomes included dietary intake and behaviour, socioeconomic factors, cardiometabolic risk factors, and cancer risk,. No randomized controlled trials investigating the impact of plant food diversity on health outcomes were identified.There is a need for a consensus definition of “diverse plant-based foods” incorporating all relevant foods from plant sources (e.g. legumes, nuts, herbs). Robust measurement tools and reporting guidelines for the assessment of plant-based food diversity in nutrition research studies will help to standardize research in this area. Within countries, an assessment of standard levels of intake of plant-based foods would be beneficial, in identifying whether diverse plant-based eating may be a target for dietary improvement. Observational studies report associations between plant-based food diversity and health outcomes, that warrant investigation in future randomized controlled trials.