Rich Source Research Articles

Fatty Acids Component of Essential Oil from Alchornea Cordifolia Modulated Activities of α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase Involved in Postprandial Hyperglycaemia

Objectives Essential oils are well-known important natural components in cosmetics and perfumery products because of their rich antioxidant sources. Recently, studies have focused more on their pharmacological activities, including antidiabetic activity. The present study focused on the antioxidant and modulatory activities of the fatty acids’ component of essential oil from Alchornea cordifolia seed on key enzymes involved in postprandial hyperglycaemia. Material and Methods Extraction was carried out via hydro-distillation, and chemical components of the oil were profiled by gas chromatography-spectroscopy. Antioxidant activity, which employs 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryhydazyl (DPPH) and 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic (ABTS) acid scavenging assays, as well as the modulatory potential of the oil for α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, were investigated at concentrations of 10-50 mg/mL. Results An oil yield of 0.38% was obtained by the end of extraction, comprising twenty-six (26) chemical constituents, with over 40% primarily being fatty acids. 9,12-Octadecadienoic (49.35%) and n-Hexadecanoic (29.74%) acids constituted the most predominant fatty acids of the oil and facilitated the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, with the highest enzyme inhibition at 50 mg/mL. The fatty acids also contributed significantly (p < 0.05) to the dose-dependent antioxidant activity of the oil against DPPH and ABTS radicals. Conclusion Essential oil from Alchornea cordifolia seed demonstrated antioxidant activity and modulated the activities of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, primarily involved in postprandial hyperglycaemia. The essential oil’s fatty acids component, particularly 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, enabled these actions. Thus, this component of the essential oil could serve as an alternative to synthetic antioxidants and as a potential candidate in the development of new drugs to regulate blood sugar.

Genetic Variability and Correlation Studies in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Genotypes for Quality Contributing Traits

Plant traits are influenced by both genetics and environmental factors. For traits governed by quantitative inheritance, the total observed variation includes both heritable (additive) and non-heritable (dominance and epistasis) components. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is an important horticultural crop in the Solanaceae family, with a chromosome number of 2n = 2x = 24. It is widely consumed in various forms—fresh, in salads, as a cooking ingredient, or processed into products such as tomato paste, peeled or diced tomatoes, juices, and soups. Tomatoes are a rich source of vital nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for a healthy and balanced diet. Due to its nutritional and commercial value, there is a growing need to identify suitable genotypes that exhibit superior quality traits. The present study explores about genetic variability and correlation studies in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) genotypes for quality contributing traits. To explore different genotypes, a field experiment was conducted at the Regional Research Station, Karnal and Laboratory of the Department of Vegetable Science, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, during the rabi season of 2016-17. Among all genotypes, maximum Fruit Firmness (1.75 kg/cm2) found in Punjab Upma, Specific Gravity (1.30 g/cm3) in genotype DVRT-5, Total Soluble Solids (5.50%) in genotype PNR-7, Ascorbic acid (26.39 mg/100g) in genotype DVRT-3 and Acidity (0.84%) in genotype DVRT-6. Based on this study, these genotypes can be used for sustainable tomato production. Thus, this study provides valuable insights for tomato growers and researchers. High heritability estimates for traits like acidity, specific gravity, fruit firmness, and ascorbic acid content indicate that these are largely controlled by genetic factors and can be effectively improved through selection. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of tomato genotypes with enhanced internal fruit quality.

Identification of Datura innoxia as a potential source of antimycobacterial components

Datura innoxia is a medicinal plant from the Solanaceae family, having medicinal properties and some toxic effects. It is widely distributed across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, and other tropical and subtropical regions, where it is utilized by local pharmaceutical industries. In this study, bioassay-guided fractionation and LC-MS/MS analysis were used for the identification of secondary metabolites with anti-tuberculosis activity in methanolic leaf extracts of D. innoxia. Bioassay-guided fractionation was conducted using normal and reverse phase column chromatography, and the fractions were assayed for antituberculosis activity in vitro by serial dilution in Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra cultures. The structures of known secondary metabolites in the purified extracts were identified using LC-ESI-MS/MS mass spectroscopy. A purified fraction of the methanolic extract of D. innoxia leaves inhibited M. tuberculosis growth at concentrations as low as 25 μg/mL. Metabolic profiling with LC-ESI-MS/MS enabled the identification of the purified extract of 16 known metabolites, including loliolide, scopolamine, kuromanin, isoquercitrin, moupinamide, methyl isoquinoline-3-carboxylate, trans-3-Indoleacrylic acid, tyramine, (3β,5ξ,9ξ)-3,6,19-trihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid, milbemycin A3 oxime, methyl jasmonate, nicotinamide, methyl ferulate, trifolin, 2-[(1S,2S,4aR,8aS)-1-hydroxy-4a-methyl-8-methylidene-decahydronaphthalen-2-yl]prop-2-enoic acid, and methyl 4-hydroxycinnamate. These results indicate that D. innoxia is a rich natural source of potential antitubercular secondary metabolites.

Beneficial changes in total cholesterol, LDL-C, biomarkers of intestinal inflammation, and vitamin E status in adults with metabolic syndrome consuming almonds as snack foods: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

Beneficial changes in total cholesterol, LDL-C, biomarkers of intestinal inflammation, and vitamin E status in adults with metabolic syndrome consuming almonds as snack foods: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

Heavy Metal Contamination in Selected Vegetables Harvested Near Industrial Zones in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Vegetables play a crucial role in the human diet, providing a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of vegetables is linked to numerous health benefits and can help prevent various diseases. However, vegetables cultivated in contaminated soil, irrigated with polluted water, and treated with excessive inorganic fertilizers may accumulate harmful heavy metals, posing significant health risks to consumers. This study aimed to evaluate the presence and concentrations of heavy metals in vegetables harvested from areas near industrial zones. Additionally, it assessed the potential health risks associated with the consumption of these contaminated vegetables. The study analyzed four types of vegetables—red spinach, water spinach, cauliflower, and brinjal—for the probable presence of toxic heavy metals, including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr). The concentrations of these metals were measured using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, with all results expressed on a fresh weight (fw) basis. The health risks associated with the intake of these metals were evaluated through Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) calculations, non-carcinogenic risk assessments using the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), Total Target Hazard Quotient (TTHQ), and Hazard Index (HI), as well as carcinogenic risk evaluations based on total Carcinogenic Risk (CR). The analysis revealed that the concentrations of heavy metals exceeded the maximum allowable limits set by the FAO/WHO for lead in all vegetable samples, except for water spinach, and for cadmium (Cd) in leafy vegetables. The EDI values for all heavy metals in the vegetables were found to surpass the maximum permissible daily intake (MTDI). While the THQs for all heavy metals, except for lead (Pb) in cauliflower, were below 1, indicating no immediate health hazards for the adult population. The total TTHQs for lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) exceeded 1 across all vegetable types, signifying substantial health risks. Bioresearch Commu. 11(2): 1861-1868, 2025 (July)

Trichoderma harzianum AKH-5: A novel fungal isolate with antimicrobial efficacy for phytopathogen management and environmental remediation.

Trichoderma harzianum AKH-5: A novel fungal isolate with antimicrobial efficacy for phytopathogen management and environmental remediation.

PHENOTYPIC AND GENOTYPIC DETECTION OF COLISTIN RESISTANT ESCHERICHIA COLI FROM RAW BUFFALO MEAT IN PAKISTAN

Buffalo meat has been considered as a rich and essential source of proteins for human health. Colistin is considered as the last treatment choice for gram negative bacteria. In this era of modern medicine, the incidence of colistin-resistant Escherichia coli in food, especially meat, has emerged as a significant threat to human health. The present study is planned to detect multidrug resistant E. coli from raw buffalo meat with an emphasis on phenotypic and genotypic detection of colistin resistant E. coli. For this purpose, fresh and chilled raw buffalo meat samples (n=300) were collected and processed for characterization of E. coli. Kirby-Bauer method was used to detect MDR status of E. coli isolates. The colistin broth disc elution test was employed to detect colistin resistance phenotypically while polymerase chain reaction was used to find out genotypic colistin resistance targeting the mcr-1 and mcr-2 genes. The results of the survey conducted revealed that among the total samples collected, 36% (108/300) buffalo meat samples were found positive for E. coli. The highest antibiotic resistance was observed (100%) against tetracycline followed by cefotaxime, cefepime (97.2%) and ciprofloxacin (94.4%). In total, 99 E. coli isolates were detected multidrug resistant and among them 60 (60.60%) isolates were found colistin resistant. The mcr-1 gene was found in 44 (73.33%) colistin resistant isolates while none of the isolates was detected positive for mcr-2 gene. The existence of phenotypic colistin resistance and mcr-1 gene in E. coli isolates from raw buffalo meat is worrisome as this situation leaves us with no treatment options for gram negative pathogens leading the practitioners towards post-antibiotic era.

Plant-based milk substitutes: sources, production, and nutritional, nutraceutical and sensory qualities

Over the years, humans and the dairy industry have depended mainly on animals, especially cattle, for their milk need. Whether for direct consumption or for the production of value-added dairy products, animal milk seems to be the gold standard, leading to a rise in its price. The exorbitant cost of dairy milk and products, coupled with the susceptibility of some consumers to lactose intolerance, necessitates finding non-dairy milk substitutes to meet human nutritional needs. Thus, to ensure a sustainable food system, in which milk is provided sufficiently and affordably for all, recent studies have demonstrated that plant-based milk substitutes (PBMS) can serve as an alternative to dairy milk in human nutrition. PBMS are prepared from different edible plant sources, including cereals, legumes, nuts, corms, roots and tubers, fruits, and vegetables. Studies have also shown that they are rich sources of nutrients and nutraceuticals, capable of nourishing the body and providing some health benefits. Bioactive compounds, including bioactive peptides, polyphenolics compounds, flavones, and anthocyanins have been reported in PBMS. These bioactive compounds are thought to confer certain health advantages, such as antidiabetic and antihypertensive effects. The sensory qualities of different PBMS have also been reported. The aim of this review was to discuss PBMS in human nutrition, emphasizing their sources, production, and nutritional, nutraceutical and sensory qualities.

Functional Genomics: From Soybean to Legume

The Fabaceae family, the third-largest among flowering plants, is nutritionally vital, providing rich sources of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Leguminous plants, such as soybeans, peas, and chickpeas, typically contain two to three times more protein than cereals like wheat and rice, with low fat content (primarily unsaturated fats) and no cholesterol, making them essential for cardiovascular health and blood sugar management. Since the release of the soybean genome in 2010, genomic research in Fabaceae has advanced dramatically. High-quality reference genomes have been assembled for key species, including soybeans (Glycine max), common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), chickpeas (Cicer arietinum), and model legumes like Medicago truncatula and Lotus japonicus, leveraging long-read sequencing, single-cell technologies, and improved assembly algorithms. These advancements have enabled telomere-to-telomere (T2T) assemblies, pan-genome constructions, and the identification of structural variants (SVs) and presence/absence variations (PAVs), enriching our understanding of genetic diversity and domestication history. Functional genomic tools, such as CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, mutagenesis, and high-throughput omics (transcriptomics, metabolomics), have elucidated regulatory networks controlling critical traits like photoperiod sensitivity (e.g., E1 and Tof16 genes in soybeans), seed development (GmSWEET39 for oil/protein transport), nitrogen fixation efficiency, and stress resilience (e.g., Rpp3 for rust resistance). Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and comparative genomics have further linked genetic variants to agronomic traits, such as pod size in peanuts (PSW1) and flowering time in common beans (COL2). This review synthesizes recent breakthroughs in legume genomics, highlighting the integration of multi-omic approaches to accelerate gene cloning and functional confirmation of the genes cloned.

Enhancing the Quality of Pomegranate Pomace Powder: Impact of Multipin Atmospheric Nonthermal Plasma on Physical, Bioactive, and Antinutritional Properties

ABSTRACTPomegranate pomace is a major byproduct from juice production, is often underutilized, even though it is a rich source of bioactive compounds and dietary fibers. However, its use in food formulations is bound by antinutritional factors and low functional properties, requiring innovative techniques like Multipin atmospheric nonthermal plasma (MANTP) to enhance its value. MANTP is an ecofriendly technology that can modify or alter the food materials without any significant degradation in nutritional attributes. This research was aimed to study the effects of MANTP treatment on pomegranate pomace powder (PPP) on bioactive compounds like total phenols, flavonoids, and antinutritional contents, physical characteristics, and morphological changes. MANTP treatment was applied on PPP at three different voltage levels (15, 25, and 35 kV) with three different time (10, 20, and 30 min) at each voltage. Different analytical methods, such as FTIR, XRD, and SEM, were used for characterization. The treatment has affected the quality of food material by enhancing the bioactive compounds such as increment in total phenols (76.63 ± 1.47 to 106.74 ± 5.87 GAE mg/100 g), and total flavonoids (8.186 ± 0.000 to 14.108 ± 0.461 QE mg/100 g) and significantly reducing the antinutritional factors such as phytic acid, condensed tannins, and saponins at higher voltage of MANTP treatment. The MANTP treatment also affected the physicochemical properties by drastically reducing the water activity (0.5406–0.2837), and increasing water solubility index and water absorption capacity. XRD curves depicted that there was a reduction in the degree of crystallinity post‐MANTP treatment, making it more amorphous, which can be seen in SEM images.

Phytochemical Profile and Dietary Potential of Senna siamea (Kassod tree) Seeds: As a Sustainable Feed Resource for Cane Rats (Thryonomys swinderianus)

The nutritional and phytochemical composition of Senna siamea (Kassod tree) seeds collected from Irepo Local Government Area (Kisi), Oyo State, was analyzed between October and December 2024. This study aims to generate data that will facilitate the effective utilization of this underexploited tropical seed in livestock feed formulation. The analysis revealed that the seeds contain a substantial protein content (21.69%), alongside notable levels of crude fat (7.65%), ash (5.96%), crude fiber (8.13%), and carbohydrates (48.44%). Additionally, they serve as a rich source of vitamin A (613.27 mg/100g) and contain vitamins D, C, and E, along with amounts of vitamins B1, B2 and B3. The mineral profile includes essential macro-minerals such as calcium, potassium, sodium, and magnesium, as well as micro-minerals like iron, manganese, zinc, and copper. Phytochemical screening identified several bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, tannins, phenolics, saponins, flavonoids, and steroids, with lower concentrations of cardiac glycosides and phytates. Although anti-nutritional factors such as phytates and oxalates were detected, their levels are unlikely to pose significant dietary challenges if appropriate processing methods are applied. The presence of these bioactive compounds suggests potential pharmacological applications, positioning Senna siamea seeds as a better resource for both traditional and modern medicinal formulations.

Potential Analysis of Snakehead Fish Albumin Extract (Channa striata) as Immunostimulant and Anti-Inflammatory in Indomethacin-Induced Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Rats

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder driven by oxidative stress and immune dysregulation, often exacerbated by prolonged non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Conventional therapies provide symptomatic relief but are limited by severe adverse effects, necessitating safer alternatives. Channa striata (snakehead fish) is a rich source of albumin, essential amino acids, and bioactive compounds with potential immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. This study investigates the therapeutic efficacy of purified Channa striata albumin extract in an indomethacin-induced IBD rat model. Albumin was isolated via ammonium sulfate precipitation and characterized by SDS-PAGE, antioxidant activity (DPPH assay), and amino acid profiling. Rats were treated with Channa striata albumin (100-300 mg/kg BW) for 14 days post-indomethacin induction. Compared to controls and diclofenac-treated groups, the extract significantly reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (up to 90.69%), improved jejunal histoarchitecture, and enhanced occludin expression. Immunohistochemistry showed a marked reduction in CD4+T cell infiltration, indicating immunomodulatory activity. These findings establish Channa striata albumin as a potent natural antioxidant and immunomodulator, offering a safer alternative to NSAIDs for IBD management.

Optimized the Spectral Reflectance Database of Herbal Plant Sample through ASD FieldSpc4 Spectroscopy

Unique spectral signatures are important for reflecting the inherent characteristics of materials. But different factors can alter the spectral signature, thus affecting measurement quality. Environmental and experimental conditions, atmosphericproperties, timing, orientation, height of measurement, FOV, calibration of spectral data and spectral averaging are some of the main factors that affect measurements. This paper presents a database collection method of performing spectral reflectance. The procedure involves calibration protocols, data acquisition routines, preprocessing methods, and storage in a structured database for retrieval and analysis efficiency. The spectral data are classified into plant species, environmental conditions, and measurement parameters for increased usability in machine learning and remote sensing studies. The derived database is a rich source of information for researchers in vegetation classification, stress identification, and hyperspectral modeling. Measuring the spectral signature using ASD fieldspec4 spectroradiometer hyperspectral non-imaging device. The research focus on the importance of optimized spectral data collection and management to aid new researcher’s decision making in environmental monitoring.

Physiological and biochemical characteristics and identification of actinomycete strains isolated from soil samples in Hanoi

Actinomycetes are a rich source of natural compounds with diverse biological activities. In this study, the actinomycete strain Streptomyces sp. CH8.1 was identified as Streptomyces virginiae through 16S rDNA sequence analysis, alongside the determination of its physiological and biochemical characteristics. Strain CH8.1 demonstrated robust growth on media typical for actinomycetes and could utilize most common nitrogen and carbon sources, including sucrose, maltose, lactose, mannitol, galactose, xylose, cellobiose, glycerin, raffinose, tyrosine, tryptone, peptone, and certain ammonium salts. CH8.1 exhibited antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus CCARM 3640 (MIC of 32 µg/mL), Salmonella enterica ATCC 14028 (MIC of 16 µg/mL), Kocuria rhizophila NBRC 12708 (MIC of 32 µg/mL), Bacillus subtilis VTCC 6633 (MIC of 8 µg/mL), Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 (MIC of 32 µg/mL), and Vibrio sp. (MIC of 16 µg/mL). The R2YE medium was identified as the most suitable for producing antimicrobial compounds. And the CH8.1 strain was demonstrated to contain the type II PKS gene cluster, while lacking the type I PKS gene cluster.

LITERATURE: AN EFFECTIVE TOOL FOR LEARNING ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Literature and literary texts can be considered effective and significant pedagogical tools for learning English as a Second language. Literature provides motivation for linguistic improvement; it makes language learning enjoyable. Among various approaches to teaching and learning English, the inclusion of literature can play a vital role. To facilitate language proficiency, literary texts like poetry, fiction, drama, and non-fiction are highly relevant. This paper aims to emphasize on literature as a tool for English language learning. Students can be made familiar with literature while improving vocabulary, grammar, and language skills (i.e., Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing). Integration of literature into language teaching and learning can increase the interest and motivation of the students and it can make the language learning process enjoyable and interesting. This paper also focuses on the fact that literature helps language learners to develop interpretative skills, which can prepare them for different situations and contexts. This paper talks about the various methods and the importance of using materials and activities in the classroom for English language learning. The use of authentic literary texts stimulates the learning process and language acquisition, as it helps to acquire cultural experience and critical thinking. Literature provides rich sources for students’ needs and expectations. This paper highlights the importance of promoting involvement and responses from learners by using literature as a tool for learning.

Enhancing and utilizing the Production of Keratinase Enzymes from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens for the Recycling of Feather Waste

The use of the microbial keratinase enzyme to remediate keratinous waste is an attractive approach in green processing and biotechnology, aiming to eliminate waste accumulation in the environment and recycle it into economical or nutritional products. This study aims to enhance the environmental and nutritional conditions of the growth medium for a keratinolytic bacterium isolated from the soil of a poultry farm in Basrah Province, Iraq, to increase its keratinase production. Subsequently, the keratinase will be used to convert feathers into a poultry feed supplement (feather meal). In the present study, the bacterial isolate was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain 19E2. The optimal conditions for keratinase enzyme production were determined by evaluating various factors, including temperature, pH, carbon sources, nitrogen sources, and inoculum size. The keratinase activity before optimizing the environmental and nutritional conditions was measured at 42.1 U, after applying the best at 37°C, pH 8, tryptone as the preferred nitrogen source, glucose as the preferred carbon source, and an inoculum size of 1 ml during a 48-hour incubation period, the keratinase activity increased to 129.3 U. This Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain 19E2 was then utilized to convert 25 g of feathers into 8 g of feather meal, which was tested by FTIR and found to be a rich source of amino acids and short peptides for use as a nutritional supplement.

Seaweed-Derived Bioactives in Cosmetics: A Detailed Review on Skin Health Benefits

ABSTRACT: Cosmetics, integral to personal care, have faced scrutiny due to the potential health hazards posed by synthetic ingredients. This review explores the diverse applications of seaweed-derived bioactive compounds in cosmetic science, presenting a comprehensive examination of their impact on skin health. The rising concerns about the adverse effects of synthetic cosmetics, including carcinogenic properties, have propelled the search for natural and sustainable alternatives. Seaweeds, as macroscopic algae, offer a rich source of bioactive molecules such as fucoidans, alginates, carrageenans, mycosporine-like amino acids (MAA), and more. These compounds exhibit multifaceted functionalities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, antimicrobial, UV protection, and skin-whitening effects. The review delves into extraction methods, processing techniques, and formulation strategies, emphasizing the potential of nanosystems to enhance stability and efficacy. Challenges, including heavy metal accumulation, are discussed, underscoring the importance of rigorous chemical analysis for safety in cosmetic applications. The review concludes by highlighting future directions, including optimizing extraction processes, increasing bioactive molecule production, and conducting more clinical studies to ensure product safety and quality. In essence, seaweed-derived bioactive compounds present a promising avenue for the development of natural and effective cosmetic formulations with diverse skincare benefits.

Enhancement of Bioactive Compounds in “Valencia” Orange Peel Waste During Cold Storage by Melatonin and Arginine Treatments

ABSTRACTThis study was carried out to investigate the protective effects of melatonin (Mel) and arginine (Arg) treatments on the maintenance and enhancement of bioactive compounds in Valencia orange peel, including soluble sugars, organic acids, and phenolic compounds, during 6 months of cold storage. This research was conducted to optimize storage conditions and increase the added value of orange peel as a rich source of functional compounds in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The 1 mM‐Mel treatment increased fructose by 14%. Glucose content decreased in the control, 2 mM‐Mel, 5 mM‐Arg, and 10 mM‐Arg treatments, but remained constant at 1 mM‐Mel. Sucrose content increased by 46% at 10 mM‐Arg. Ascorbic acid increased by 145% with 1 mM‐Mel and by 90% with 10 mM‐Arg. Citric acid increased by 173% with 1 mM‐Mel and by 102% with 1 mM‐Arg. Coumaric acid increased by 44% with 1 mM‐Mel and remained constant at 10 mM‐Arg. Trans‐ferulic acid increased by 50% with 5 mM‐Arg. Chlorogenic acid increased by 103% with 1 mM‐Mel. Catechin increased by 15% with 10 mM‐Arg. Quercetin increased by 292% with 10 mM‐Arg. Hesperidin increased by 35% with 10 mM‐Arg and hesperetin by 74% with 10 mM‐Arg. Mel and Arg maintained the bioactive compounds of orange peel during cold storage. They are potential treatments to increase the added value of agricultural products by preserving bioactive compounds.

Formulation and evaluation of buttermilk enriched with encapsulated banana pseudostem extract

Banana pseudostem is a potentially rich source of phytochemicals, which include phenolics and flavonoids which possess functional properties such as antioxidant and anti-diabetic activities. However, these bioactive compounds are less stable within the food matrix and their extract may impart undesirable sensory attributes. Encapsulation of the extract presents a viable solution to these shortcomings. This study aimed to encapsulate thee banana pseudostem extract from the Palayamkodan variety using alginate-based wall material. Additionally, the research involved developing an enriched beverage incorporating the encapsulated extract. Developing an enriched beverage with the encapsulated pseudostem extract offers consumers a convenient and nutritious option. The encapsulation process was performed using high-speed homogenizer with sodium alginate as the wall material. The ethanolic extract of banana pseudostem and its encapsulated form exhibited a total phenolic content of 10.62±0.21 mg GAE/g of extract and 2.97±0.09 mg GAE/100 mL, respectively. Both the extract and its encapsulated form demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, as measured by DPPH radical scavenging assay. The in vitro anti-diabetic activity was determined by α-amylase inhibition assay revealing that both the extract, and the encapsulated form exhibited strong activity. The encapsulated extract was incorporated into spiced buttermilk for developing the enriched beverage. A storage study of the enriched butter milk, packaged in bottles and stored under refrigerated conditions (4±2 °C) indicated that the product remains acceptable for over 10 days, maintaining favourable scores across various sensory attributes. From the current investigation, it can be concluded that developing enriched buttermilk with the encapsulated banana pseudostem extract is feasible, providing good antioxidant and anti-diabetic activity.

Cranberry extract attenuates indomethacin-induced gastriculcer in rats via its potential atioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Indomethacin (IND) belongs to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) prescribed for the treatment of rheumatoid diseases and linked to the development of gastric ulcers in many people. Cranberry is a rich source of polyphenols and flavonoids, which have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The study aimed to evaluate the activity of cranberry aqueous extract on IND-induced gastric ulcers in albino rats. Twenty adult male rats were sequentially assigned to four groups of five each. The control group consumes distilled water (DW) orally for 15 days. The IND group received a single oral dosage (60 mg/kg) of IND. The omeprazole (OMP) group got 60 mg/kg of IND as a single oral dose and then 20 mg/kg/day of OMP for 15 days. The cranberry group was given a single dose of IND 60 mg/kg orally and 200 mg/kg/day of cranberry aqueous extract for 15 days. Rats were euthanized on day 16, and gastric tissues were removed for biochemical and histopathological evaluations. Cranberry extract considerably ameliorated the severity of IND-induced gastric ulcerations and fixed the histopathological alterations, including mucosal membrane necrosis, congestion, inflammatory cell penetration, and deteriorations of GIT. Furthermore, IND-exposed rats treated with cranberry extract exhibited dramatically lower serum levels of oxidative biomarkers like MDA and inflammatory biomarkers like TNF-α and IL-6, but higher levels of anti-oxidative biomarkers like SOD and GPx and anti-inflammatory biomarkers like IL-10. The bioactive flavonoids and polyphenols content of cranberry extract could account for its profound gastroprotective effects. The anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of cranberry extract could be a promising strategy for ameliorating the IND-aggravated gastrotoxicity.