Saffron Research Articles

Determination of the nutritional potential and valorization of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) wastes as an antioxidant agent in ruminant feeding: in vitro and in vivo studies.

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a plant known for its diverse medicinal and nutritional properties, which has adapted well to arid and semi-arid regions of the world, particularly in the Middle East. Research on saffron wastes (SW) as a dietary additive for small ruminants is limited. Therefore, two primary experiments were designed to evaluate the nutritional potential of SW. In the first trial, the nutritional value of SW collected from various regions in northeast Iran was assessed through proximate analysis and in vitro procedures. In the second trial, the effects of incorporating SW (a 1: 1 mixture from all regions, w: w) at two levels (30 and 60g/day) into the diets of Afshari male lambs were investigated in comparison to a control diet. Except for dry matter and ether extract contents, other chemical and mineral compounds varied among the SW collected from different regions. The samples displayed diversity in potential gas production and estimated dry matter intake (DMI). In the in vivo experiment, DMI, nutrient digestibility, and most blood metabolites were not significantly affected by the addition of SW; however, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, and cholesterol levels were respectively decreased, increased, and decreased in lambs fed 60g SW/day compared to the control group. Overall, SW collected from various regions demonstrated different nutritional values. Although the dietary inclusion of SW at the level of 60g/day did not adversely effect on DMI, nutrient digestibility, or certain blood metabolites, it is suggested for its potential improvement in lambs' health indicators. Long-term studies are recommended for future SW evaluation in vivo.

Exploring Saffron's Therapeutic Potential: Insights on Phytochemistry, Bioactivity, and Clinical Implications.

Saffron, derived from the Crocus sativus plant, has been revered for centuries for its culinary, medicinal, and cultural significance. This review provides a comprehensive overview of saffron's chemical constituents and phytochemistry, elucidating its rich profile of bioactive compounds. Emphasis is placed on exploring the bio-accessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of saffron's phytochemicals, laying the foundation for understanding its pharmaceutical significance. The pharmaceutical importance of saffron and its phytochemicals is thoroughly examined, focusing on their diverse therapeutic properties. These include anticancer, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, learning and memory enhancement, cardiovascular, and antihypertensive properties. Such multifaceted pharmacological activities underscore saffron's potential as a valuable medicinal resource. Clinical studies investigating the efficacy and safety of saffron in various health conditions are synthesized, providing insights into its clinical applications. Moreover, toxicity assessments in animal models, encompassing acute, subacute, subchronic, and developmental toxicity, are discussed to delineate the safety profile of saffron and its bioactive constituents. Finally, recent advances and future perspectives in saffron research are highlighted, underscoring emerging trends and potential avenues for further exploration. This review serves as a comprehensive resource for researchers, clinicians, and stakeholders interested in harnessing the therapeutic potential of saffron while ensuring its safe and effective utilization in healthcare settings.

Study the Electrical and Optical Properties of PVA/Nano-TiO2 Electrospun Composite Supported with Crocus Sativus Dye

Study the Electrical and Optical Properties of PVA/Nano-TiO₂ Electrospun Composite Supported with Crocus Sativus Dye

Design of a molecularly imprinted polymer sensor modified with saffron-based copper nanoflowers for highly selective and sensitive determination of bortezomib

This work represents the first successful application of a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based electrochemical sensor for the sensitive and selective determination of the first developed proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib (BOR). BOR is used for the treatment of multiple myeloma, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and mantle cell lymphoma. It shows its desired effect through the boronate group and can be administered intravenously or subcutaneously. The MIP-based electrochemical sensor design includes the integration of green-synthesized saffron-based copper nanoflowers (CuNFs) from Crocus sativus L. to increase the active surface area and porosity of the glassy carbon electrode (GCE) surface. 2-Acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid (AMPS) was selected as the functional monomer along with other MIP components. Detailed characterizations of the developed CuNFs/AMPS/MIP-GCE sensor and CuNFs were performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The indirect measurement approach using 5.0 mM [Fe(CN)6]3–/4– solution was used to determine BOR in the linear range of 2.5 × 10−13 M − 2.5 × 10−12 M (0.25–2.5 pM). The LOD and LOQ values of the sensor obtained at the fM level (29 fM and 96.7 fM), which has a linear response in the commercial human serum sample in the same concentration range, emphasize its sensitivity (1.89 × 1013 and 2.14 × 1013 μA/M for standard solution and serum). The repeatability and reproducibility of the sensor were between 0.87 % and 2.17 %, showing its reliability. The successful performance of the sensor in the presence of metabolites belonging to BOR demonstrates its unique selectivity. The selectivity was demonstrated via relative imprinting factor (IF') values (higher than 3.5) against BOR's metabolites. The stability of the CuNFs/AMPS/MIP-GCE sensor was found to be 5 days.

Chronological events unfolding the vegetative and floral phenology of apical bud in Crocus sativus.

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is an infertile perennial geophyte considered the most expensive spice in the world. Seasonal fluctuations and climate change have significant impact on the growth, development, and yield of saffron stigma, which is the economically valued part of plant. The stigma being part of the flower, the knowledge of phenotypic transition from dormant apical bud up to flowering is vital, yet, not explored properly. The complexity of flowering in C. sativus further accentuates by the lack of clear demarcation between flowering and non-flowering corms in terms of weight and sizes, as small corms are known to be vegetative only, while large ones produce flower. Therefore, chronological phenotyping on a weekly and quarterly basis of apical shoot and flowering primordia between June and October was carried out to understand the organogenesis sequentially. In large corms, the stamen was the first floral organ to initiate followed by the formation of tepal from the base of the stamen. The plants exhibited both synanthous and hysteranthous flowering. Untargeted metabolome analysis of dormant apical bud just before dormancy break from flowering buds from large corms as well as non-flowering buds from small corms identified the presence of many differentially accumulated metabolites including sphingosine and meglutol. Key metabolites such as phytosphingosine, 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaric acid, 3-acetamidopropanal, 6-hydroxykynurenic acid, D-serine, and 1-D-myo-inositol 3-phosphate were also detected having associated with isoprenoid biosynthesis, lignin pathway regulation, and carbohydrate metabolism that participates in flowering. The integration of morphological, histological, and metabolomic data offers a comprehensive view of the flowering process that can be utilised in future biotechnological interventions in C. sativus.

A novel pectin-like polysaccharide from Crocus sativus targets Galectin-3 to inhibit hepatic stellate cells activation and liver fibrosis

Liver fibrosis may lead to cirrhosis and even cancer without effective clinical medicine available. Previous studies demonstrated that galactan-containing pectins or pectin-like polysaccharides might target Galectin-3 (Gal-3) to impede fibrosis. This research aims to discover novel pectin-like galactan to interfere with fibrosis for potential new drug development. Thus, we purify a novel homogeneous Rhamnogalacturonan-I like polysaccharide with galactan input, XHH2, from the Crocus sativus flower. XHH2 (MW: 35.7 kDa) consists of rhamnose, galacturonic acid, galactose, and arabinose in ratios of 6.6: 6.1: 25.2: 12.1. The backbone of XHH2 comprises 1, 3, 6-Gal and 1, 3, 4-GalA, with branches at O-3 of 1, 3, 6-Gal and O-4 of 1, 3, 4-GalA. O-3 branches include 1, 3-Gal, 1, 4-Gal, 1, 6-Gal, T-Gal, and T-Glc, while O-4 branches consist of 1, 2, 4-Rha, 1, 4-GalA, 1, 5-Ara, T-Ara, T-Gal, and T-α-HexA. Surface plasmon resonance measurement shows that XHH2 binds to both Gal-3 and integrin β1 to block Gal-3/integrin β1 interaction. Mechanism studies further suggest that XHH2 inactivates hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) via disturbing the Gal-3/Integrin-β1/FAK pathway to alleviate liver injury and fibrosis in vitro &in vivo. XHH2 shows a favorable drug safety in the acute toxicity test of oral administration of XHH2 in mice. Overall, XHH2 is an active ingredient against liver fibrosis by targeting the interaction between Gal-3 and Integrin-β1.

Influence of composted manures and co-composted biochar on growth performance of saffron and soil nutrients under varying electrical conductivity soil conditions: A two-year field study

The stigmas of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) are known as “red gold” for being the most expensive spice of the world. This medicinal crop grows well in the regions with cold winter Mediterranean climate. However, salinity can be one of the limiting factors for its cultivation in these regions. Composted manures and their co-compost with wood-derived biochar as fertilizers in saline soil can reduce the salinity stress on saffron. In this study, the composted manures from dairy farms (FYM), sheep and goats (SG) and poultry (PM) and their co-compost with wood-derived biochar (FYM-B, SG-B and PM-B) were amended in non-saline (EC1:2 0.25 dS m−1, SOM; 9.9 g kg−1) and soil with natural slight salinity (EC1:2; 1.95 dS m−1, SOM; 30.9 g kg−1) soil for two consecutive years with the total amendment rate of 65 t ha−1 for each fertilizer. The saline soil was transported from an agricultural farm (30 km away from research field); whereas, the non-saline soil was not transported and was not cultivated before. The amendment of fertilizers and sowing of corms were conducted at the same time in the mid of August. The stigma yield in saline control soil was significantly lower than non-saline control in both cropping years. In non-saline soil, all fertilizers reduced stigma yield of first-year crop by 14–60 % (P < 0.05). No differences between treatments for the stigma yield of second year crop in non-saline and of first year crop in saline soil were observed. In saline soil, FYM and PM fertilizers increased stigma yield of second year crop by 44 % and 41 %, respectively (P < 0.05). The two-year cumulative agronomic efficiencies for nitrogen and phosphorus and the nitrogen use efficiency for leaf biomass were lower under fertilizer treatments than control in non-saline and saline soil. In non-saline soil the PM-B; whereas, in saline soil all fertilizers (except SG) increased the phosphorus use efficiency of leaves (P < 0.05). The two-year amendment of composted manures and FYM-B in non-saline soil resulted in high uptake of sodium in leaves (P < 0.05); whereas, such effect was not observed for saline soil. Almost all fertilizers increased ∼2–5 fold the concentration of bioavailable phosphorus and ∼2–3 fold the concentration of potassium in non-saline and saline soil (P < 0.05). The positive influence of fertilizers on stigma yield and PUE of leaves of second year crop was observed only for saline soil. Furthermore, contrary to the results for non-saline soil, these fertilizers did not cause an increased uptake of Na in leaves in saline soil. We attribute this effect to the high concentration of SOM and gradual decline in EC (0.94–1.71 dS m−1) over time in saline soil. The gradual improvement in yield (from negative to neutral in non-saline and from neutral to positive in saline soil) was observed over time. Amendment of fertilizers and sowing of corms at same time may be the reason for their negative influence on stigma yield in low SOM-containing non-saline soil.

Crocin Inhibited Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells to Treat Diabetic Nephropathy Through Improving AMPK/mTOR-Mediated Autophagy

Objectives Diabetic nephropathy (DN), a severe microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease. Crocin (CRO), an active ingredient extracted from Crocus sativus and Gardenia jasminoides, has multiple bioactivities such as anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-depressive activities. However, the potential effects and mechanisms of CRO in the treatment of DN are still unclear. Methods In this study, we aimed to assess the efficacy of CRO in treating DN using in vivo and in vitro experiments, and intensively investigate the potential therapeutic mechanisms of CRO against DN based on the inhibition of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) by inducing adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-mediated autophagy. Results The results showed that CRO had a therapeutic effect and anti-EMT effect in kidney of DN mice. CRO also moderated AMPK/mTOR pathway and improved autophagy in kidney of DN mice. In high glucose (HG)-induced tubular epithelial cell EMT model, CRO inhibited EMT, moderated AMPK/mTOR pathway and improved autophagy. AMPK inhibitor abolished the above effects of CRO on tubular epithelial cells. Conclusion CRO exhibited considerably therapeutic and anti-EMT effects on DN both in vivo and in vitro, these may be associated with restoring autophagy through regulating AMPK/mTOR pathway.

A Comprehensive Review of Herbal Medicines for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Abstract: The choices of treatment for Alzheimer's are based on NMDA-receptor antagonists and cholinesterase inhibitors, although their efficacy as a therapy is still up for debate. BPSD (Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia) have been treated using herbal medicine products, with varying degrees of success. This manuscript sets out to answer the question, "Can herbs be effective in the treatment of cognitive impairments in patients?" by examining evidences from controlled research. The process by which Alzheimer's disease develops remains a mystery, and the present Alzheimer's treatment strategy, which consists of administering a single medicine to treat a single target, appears to be clinically ineffective. AD treatment will require a combination of approaches that target many signs and causes of the disease. The results of currently available licensed therapies for AD are often disappointing, and alternative medicine, especially herbal therapy, may play a role. Over 80% of the world's population, particularly in developing nation, gets their main health care from herbal medicines. They have persisted through the years due to their low risk, high reward, widespread acceptance across cultures, and absence of detrimental side effects. In some cases, herbal remedies have proven to be more effective than conventional medical treatments. They are assumed to be natural unless proven otherwise by the presence of unnatural additives. The absence of adverse reactions is a major advantage of herbal treatment. In addition, they provide ongoing advantages to health. Salvia officinalis, Ginkgo biloba, Melissa officinalis, Panax ginseng, Coriandrum sativum, Curcuma longa, Ashwagandha, Uncaria Tomentosa, Crocus Sativus and Allium Sativum are all studied for their potential effects on Alzheimer's disease.

Exploring the Potential of Saffron as a Therapeutic Agent in Depression Treatment: A Comparative Review.

Depression is a significant mental health challenge globally. While traditional antidepressants are effective, they often have unwanted side effects. Saffron, a natural spice derived from Crocus sativus L., has emerged as a potential alternative therapy for depression. Researchers have found that its components such as crocin, crocetin, and safranal have been found to mitigate depressive symptoms through neurotransmitter regulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and neuroprotection. Clinical trials suggest that the effectiveness of saffron in treating mild to moderate depression is comparable to that of standard medications, and animal studies support these results, showing behavioral improvements with saffron treatment. Saffron is particularly appealing due to its safety and lower incidence of side effects, making it suitable for those sensitive to conventional drugs. Additionally, its antioxidant properties may offer further health benefits. However, challenges such as determining the appropriate dosage, prohibitive cost, and the limited availability of quality saffron need to be addressed. Most research on saffron's efficacy is short-term; thus, long-term studies are essential to understand its full therapeutic potential and ongoing antidepressant effects. While saffron is safe in terms of its culinary value, higher therapeutic doses require careful monitoring for drug interactions and side effects. In summary, saffron represents a promising direction in depression treatment, with benefits potentially matching those of standard treatments and a better safety profile. However, further research is necessary to establish clear guidelines for its use, optimize dosing, and assess long-term outcomes. Saffron offers a natural treatment path for depression, but its use must be controlled and supported by scientific evidence.

Effects of Corm Treatment with Cold Plasma and Electromagnetic Field on Growth and Production of Saffron Metabolites in Crocus sativus.

Crocus sativus L. is a widely cultivated traditional plant for obtaining dried red stigmas known as "saffron," the most expensive spice in the world. The response of C. sativus to pre-sowing processing of corms with cold plasma (CP, 3 and 5 min), vacuum (3 min), and electromagnetic field (EMF, 5 min) was assessed to verify how such treatments affect plant performance and the quality and yield of herbal raw materials. The results show that applied physical stressors did not affect the viability of corms but caused stressor-dependent changes in the kinetics of sprouting, growth parameters, leaf trichome density, and secondary metabolite content in stigmas. The effect of CP treatment on plant growth and metabolite content was negative, but all stressors significantly (by 42-74%) increased the number of leaf trichomes. CP3 treatment significantly decreased the length and dry weight of flowers by 43% and 60%, respectively, while EMF treatment increased the length of flowers by 27%. However, longer CP treatment (5 min) delayed germination. Vacuum treatment improved the uniformity of germination by 28% but caused smaller changes in the content of stigma compounds compared with CP and EMF. Twenty-six compounds were identified in total in Crocus stigma samples by the HPLC-DAD method, including 23 crocins, rutin, picrocrocin, and safranal. Processing of Crocus corms with EMF showed the greatest efficiency in increasing the production of secondary metabolites in saffron. EMF increased the content of marker compounds in stigmas (crocin 4: from 8.95 to 431.17 mg/g; crocin 3: from 6.27 to 164.86 mg/g; picrocrocin: from 0.4 to 1.0 mg/g), although the observed effects on growth were neutral or slightly positive. The obtained findings indicate that treatment of C. sativus corms with EMF has the potential application for increasing the quality of saffron by enhancing the amounts of biologically active compounds.

Drugs with glutamate-based mechanisms of action in psychiatry.

Psychopharmacotherapy of major psychiatric disorders is mostly based on drugs that modulate serotonergic, dopaminergic, or noradrenergic neurotransmission, either by inhibiting their reuptake or by acting as agonists or antagonists on specific monoamine receptors. The effectiveness of this approach is limited by a significant delay in the therapeutic mechanism and self-perpetuating growth of treatment resistance with a consecutive number of ineffective trials. A growing number of studies suggest that drugs targeting glutamate receptors offer an opportunity for rapid therapeutic effect that may overcome the limitations of monoaminergic drugs. In this article, we present a review of glutamate-modulating drugs, their mechanism of action, as well as preclinical and clinical studies of their efficacy in treating mental disorders. Observations of the rapid, robust, and long-lasting effects of ketamine and ketamine encourages further research on drugs targeting glutamatergic transmission. A growing number of studies support the use of memantine and minocycline in major depressive disorder and schizophrenia. Amantadine, zinc, and Crocus sativus extracts yield the potential to ameliorate depressive symptoms in patients with affective disorders. Drugs with mechanisms of action based on glutamate constitute a promising pharmacological group in the treatment of mental disorders that do not respond to standard methods of therapy. However, further research is needed on their efficacy, safety, dosage, interactions, and side effects, to determine their optimal clinical use.

The suppressive effects of crocin from saffron on allergic airway inflammation through Drp1/Nfr1/Mfn2/Pgc1-alpha signaling pathway in mice

Ethnopharmacological relevanceSaffron is derived from the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., which was considered by ancient nations for food and medicinal purposes. In traditional medicine, the therapeutic use of Crocus sativus includes antispasmodic, antitussive and expectorant. Aim of the studyMitochondrial fusion, fission, biogenesis, and mitophagy are essential processes for maintaining mitochondrial dynamics in response to cellular stress. The primary objective of this research was to examine how crocin affected the levels of important mitochondrial regulators, including Drp1, Pgc1α, Nrf1, and Mfn2, in the lung tissue of ovalbumin-sensitized mice. Materials and methodsA total of fifty male BALB/C mice were randomly assigned to five unique groups (n = 10 for each group), including the control group, ovalbumin-sensitized group (OVA), OVA group treated with 30 mg/kg of crocin, OVA group treated with 60 mg/kg of crocin, and OVA group treated with 1 mg/kg of dexamethasone. Post-sensitization and ovalbumin challenge, mice lung tissues were evaluated for the expression of Drp1, Pgc1α, Nrf1, and Mfn2 mRNA levels using real-time PCR as well as histopathological assessments. ResultsIn the OVA group, there was a significant elevated in inflammatory cells such as eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes; however, crocin (both concentrations) and dexamethasone intervention showed significant inhibitory effects (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001). Moreover, an increase in the expression of Drp1, Pgc1α, and Nrf1 levels was seen in the OVA group, while crocin and dexamethasone showed protective benefits (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001). Furthermore, the levels of Mfn2 were reduced in the lung tissue of mice exposed to ovalbumin, but this decrease was reversed by crocin 60 (P < 0.05) and dexamethasone treatment (P < 0.001). ConclusionIn mice with OVA sensitization, the balance of mitochondrial dynamics in lung tissue was disrupted, but intervention of crocin identified to have a protective effect.

Maximizing saffron apocarotenoid production in varied tomato fruit carotenoid contexts.

Saffron spice owes its commercial appreciation to its specific apocarotenoids: crocins, picrocrocin, and safranal. In Crocus sativus, these compounds are biosynthesized from zeaxanthin through oxidative cleavage by the carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase 2 (CCD2). Transgenic tomato plants expressing CsCCD2 in the fruit, named Tomaffron, accumulate high levels of saffron apocarotenoids despite the low substrate availability for CsCCD2. In the present study, CsCCD2 has been introduced into Xantomato; this tomato variety accumulates high levels of zeaxanthin and β-carotene in ripe fruit due to a combination of four mutant alleles. Xantomato and Tomaffron genotypes have been combined to optimize apocarotenoid production. The best transgenic lines accumulated 15 and 14 times more crocins and picrocrocin than Tomaffron, alongside a fourfold increase in β-carotene compared to Xantomato, albeit at a cost in fruit yield. Segregation of the four mutations has been carried out to find the best combination for obtaining high levels of saffron apocarotenoids without adverse effects on fruit yield. Plants harboring the high-pigmented 3 (hp3) and BETA (BSh) mutations accumulated 6 and 15 times more crocins and picrocrocin than Tomaffron, without observable pleiotropic effects. Additionally, those high levels of saffron apocarotenoids were obtained in fruit accumulating high levels of both lycopene and β-carotene independently or in combination, suggesting a regulatory role for the apocarotenoids produced and indicating that it is possible to increase the levels of both types of healthy promoting molecules simultaneously.

Saffron (Crocus Sativus Linnaeus) based protection against Aflatoxin B1 induced organ damage in rats

Saffron is well-known for its anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Saffron's nutritional and medicinal properties support its numerous uses as a flavouring and herbal remedy. This study investigated the protective efficacy of saffron administration against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced toxicity in adult male Wistar albino rats during an experimental period of 21 days. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a common mycotoxin of soils and foodstuffs. Thirty-two rats were divided into four groups (Control group, AFB1 group, Saffron group, and AFB1+ Saffron group), and their body weights were measured on days 1, 7, 14, and 21. Blood samples were collected on the 21st day for haematological and biochemical studies (testosterone, kidney and liver function tests, and oxidative stress markers). Tissue samples from testes, liver, and kidney were subjected to histological examinations. The results depicted a significant decrease in the body weights after 7, 14, and 21 days of Saffron, AFB1, and AFB1+ Saffron treatments in comparison to control. Haematological investigations showed that basophils, platelets, monocytes, lymphocytes, and eosinophils greatly increased compared to the control group, whereas neutrophils and eosinophils dramatically decreased. There was a significant rise in the serum levels of uric acid, creatinine, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, nitric oxide, and malondialdehyde. Contrarily, testosterone levels notably reduced in AFB1-administered rats as compared to controls. AFB1 group exhibited several histological modifications in testes, liver, and kidney tissues. Oxidative stress biomarkers, testosterone, kidney and liver functions, and haematological parameters of the AFB1+ Saffron group remained similar to the control group. Kidney and liver tissues of Saffron-treated rats also displayed normal structure similar to the control group, which confirmed its protective efficacy against AFB1-induced toxicity. Saffron's bioactive components and antioxidant and pharmacological properties might have contributed to its promising anti-AFB1-toxicity potential.

Prevalence and characterization of Burkholderia gladioli in Iran, from bacterial dry rot of saffron corms (Crocus sativus L.)

Iran is the main world producer of saffron (Crocus sativus L.), but a bacterial disease continues to threaten saffron production, causing severe flower failure, rot on flowering tubes, delayed vegetative growth, premature yellowing of leaves, bare patches in saffron farms, reddish-brown lesions in the germination zones of roots, and rot of saffron corms. Field surveys in Razavi-Khorasan and Southern-Khorasan provinces revealed high incidence of Burkholderia gladioli dry rot symptoms in saffron farms, with symptoms observed during flowering on leaves and corms. Twenty-four bacterial isolates from symptomatic saffron corms from different parts of Iran were characterized. These bacteria were identified as Burkholderia gladioli, based using phenotypic characteristics, species-specific PCR, and sequencing analyses of the 16S rRNA and 16S-23S intergenic transcribed spacer regions. All 24 isolates triggered hypersensitive reactions in tobacco and pelargonium leaves, although pathogenicity tests showed that only 21 isolates were capable of causing rots on saffron corms.

Antagonism of rhizosphere Trichoderma brevicompactum DTN19 against the pathogenic fungi causing corm rot in saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in vitro.

Corm rot in saffron (Crocus sativus L.) significantly impacts yield and quality. Non-toxic fungi, particularly Trichoderma species, are valuable for biological control due to their production of diverse and biologically active secondary metabolites. This study aimed to isolate an effective antagonistic fungus against the pathogenic fungi causing corm rot in saffron. Four pathogenic fungi (Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium solani, Penicillium citreosulfuratum, and Penicillium citrinum) were isolated from diseased saffron bulbs in Chongming. Initial screening through dual culture with these pathogens re-screening from rhizosphere soil samples of C. sativus based on its inhibitory effects through volatile, nonvolatile, and fermentation broth metabolites. The inhibitory effect of biocontrol fungi on pathogenic fungi in vitro was evaluated by morphological observation and molecular biology methods. Antagonistic fungi were identified as Trichoderma brevicompactum DTN19. F. oxysporum was identified as the most severe pathogen. SEM (scanning electron microscope) and TEM (transmission electron microscope) observations revealed that T. brevicompactum DTN19 significantly inhibited the growth and development of F. oxysporum mycelium, disrupting its physiological structure and spore formation. Additionally, T. brevicompactum DTN19 demonstrated nitrogen fixation and production of cellulase, IAA (Indole acetic acid), and siderophores. Whole-genome sequencing of strain DTN19 revealed genes encoding protease, cellulase, chitinase, β-glucosidase, siderophore, nitrogen cycle, and sulfate transporter-related proteins. T. brevicompactum DTN19 may inhibit the propagation of pathogenic fungi by destroying their cell walls or producing antibiotics. It can also produce IAA and iron carriers, which have the potential to promote plant growth. Overall, T. brevicompactum DTN19 showed the development prospect of biological agents.

Saffron (Crocus sativus) and its constituents in ovalbumin-induced asthma model: a preclinical systematic review and meta-analysis.

Animal and human studies have demonstrated that the saffron and the active components of saffron, including crocin, crocetin, and safranal, possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. In this meta-analysis, the preclinical evidence and potential mechanism of saffron were explored in an animal model of ovalbumin-induced asthma. Studies related to saffron and its constituents in an animal model of ovalbumin-induced asthma from the beginning to March 2024 were searched from Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using the 15-item CAMARADES checklist. Data analysis was performed using STATA software version 17. Thirteen studies with 536 animals (268 animals in the intervention group and 268 animals in the ovalbumin-induced group) were analyzed. The meta-analysis findings demonstrated that saffron and its constituents played a significant role in reducing total WBC, eosinophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts. Moreover, saffron showed a significant decrease in the levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IgE, histamine, endothelin, nitric oxide, and nitrite. Moreover, saffron was found to elevate EC50 thresholds and lower maximum response rates in experimental animals. The analysis revealed a significant identification of modulation in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers and miRNAs pathways. Saffron and its components may impact ovalbumin-induced asthma model in animals through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory pathways, as well as improving pulmonary function and modulating ER stress markers and miRNAs pathways. As a result, saffron should be considered for further clinical trials in individuals suffering from asthma.

Crocus Sativus Linnaeus (Saffron) intake does not affect physiological and perceptual responses during a repeated sprint test in healthy active young males

The study aimed to investigate the effects of acute ingestion of saffron (SAF) on physiological (i.e., heart rate and blood lactate) and perceptual (i.e., ratings of perceived exertion [RPE] and feeling scale) measures in response to a repeated-sprint ability test (RSS) in healthy young males (N = 22; mean ± SD: age, 21.7 ± 1.24 yrs.). All participants completed two experimental trials with a one-week washout period using a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design. In each session, the participants were randomly chosen to receive either a capsule of saffron (300 mg) (SAF session) or a capsule of lactose (PLB session) two hours before performing the RSS.No significant differences (p > 0.05) were found for heart rate, RPE, and feeling scale between the SAF or PLB sessions at pre- and post-RSS. There were no significant changes (p > 0.05) in peak time, total time, fatigue index, and blood lactate in either the SAF or PLB sessions. Acute SAF ingestion did not significantly improve RSS performance nor physiological and perceptual measures in active young males. Future trials should address the topic by using shortened/prolonged higher doses of SAF on biological, physical, physiological, and perceptual responses to acute and chronic exercise.

The brain and systemic oxidative stress and memory changes induced by inhaled paraquat in rat improved by Crocus sativus

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of Crocus sativus (Cs) on paraquat (PQ)-induced learning and memory deficits as well as brain and lung oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, and oxidative stress in rats.Rats were exposed to saline (Ctrl) or PQ (PQ groups) aerosols. PQ groups were treated with 0.03 mg/kg/day dexamethasone (Dexa), 20 and 80 mg/kg/day Cs-L and Cs-H, 5 mg/kg/day pioglitazone (Pio), and Cs-L+Pio for 16 days during PQ exposure period. Learning and memory abilities were assessed by Morris water maze (MWM) and passive avoidance tests.PQ group showed increased numbers of total and differential WBCs in blood, and increased malondialdehyde (MDA), in the serum, brain, and lung but reduced thiol, catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels compared to the control group (for all, p < 0.001). The escape latency and traveled distance were increased in the PQ group. However, the time spent in the target quadrant in the MWM test and the latency to enter the dark room were reduced after receiving an electrical shock (p < 0.05 to P<0.001). In all treated groups, measured values were improved compared to PQ group (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). The combination of Cs-L+Pio showed more pronounced effects compared to either treatment alone (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001).These findings suggest that Cs has neuroprotective properties and may be beneficial in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases induced by noxious agents such as PQ.