Syzygium Cumini Research Articles

Fabrication of a natural nanocomposite from Syzygium cumini and squid bone waste decorated with Cu-Nps for simultaneous use in the triple method of photodynamic/photothermal/chemotherapy.

This work reports a new nano platform made from natural materials. For this purpose, calcium carbonate nanoparticles derived from Persian Gulf squid bones as a drug carrier, Syzygium cumini (dye extracted from the fruit of the Persian Gulf trees) as a photosensitizer, and Doxorubicin as a chemotherapy drug have been used. In addition, copper nanoparticles were added to the above composition to increase the efficiency of photothermal treatment. For phototherapy, samples were irradiated by an 808 nm laser (1 W). The results show that nanocomposites play an influential role in the reactive oxygen species process, and an increase of 21 degrees in temperature during 15 minutes of laser radiation is effective in photodynamic/photothermal therapy. The drug loading capacity of the nanocomposite was calculated as 49%. This new nanocomposite for simultaneous photodynamic/photothermal/chemotherapy holds great promise for future cancer treatment due to its excellent potential in treatment and reduced systemic toxicity.&#xD.

Betaine-Modified Green Carbon Dot for Cr(VI) Sensing, in Vivo Cr(VI) Imaging, and Growth Promotion in the Rice Plant.

Hexavalent chromium is a toxic environmental pollutant that damages plants due to disruption of nutrient uptake, photosynthesis metabolism, and oxidative stress, which suppresses the growth and development of the plant. In this work, we have developed a betaine-modified carbon dot (BT@CD) sensor for monitoring Cr(VI) in water and plants. Fluorescent carbon dots have been synthesized using jamun juice (Syzygium cumini) as the carbon source subjected to surface modification with betaine (BT@JCD). This BT@JCD exhibits strong blue fluorescence, which significantly decreases in the presence of Cr(VI) due to the inner filter effect in a range of 5-450 nM with a detection limit of 0.033 μM. Due to its easy translocation in the vascular bundles, these fluorescence nanosensors can be applied to detect Cr(VI) in rice plants Oryza sativa) through fluorescence confocal imaging. The treatment of rice plants with BT@JCDs in the concentration range of 0.2 to 1g/mL not only triggered photophysical parameters such as carbohydrates, chlorophyll, and carotenoids but also enhanced the antioxidant enzyme activity promoting plant growth.

Effect of Storage on Chemical Composition and Microbial Count of Carbonated Ready to Serve (RTS) Beverage from Jamun (Syzygium cumini L.)

Effect of Storage on Chemical Composition and Microbial Count of Carbonated Ready to Serve (RTS) Beverage from Jamun (Syzygium cumini L.)

Air pollution tolerance and metal accumulation potential of some plant species growing in educational institutions of Amritsar, India.

Poor air quality in urban areas increases the exposure of individuals to air pollutants. Hence, it becomes mandatory to grow such plant species that have more potential to tolerate air pollution and can aid in its mitigation. Air pollution tolerance index (APTI) and anticipated performance index (API) are two indices that help in scientific evaluation of plant species before recommending them for plantation. In this study, six plant species from three educational institutions of Amritsar city were screened for their tolerance and performance against air pollution as well as for their capability to act as accumulators of nine metals viz., aluminium (Al), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn). On the basis of APTI, Cassia fistula (C. fistula) was categorized as a tolerant species while Alstonia scholaris (A. scholaris), Cascabela thevetia (C. thevetia), Monoon longifolium (M. longifolium), Pongamia pinnata (P. pinnata) and Syzygium cumini (S. cumini) were categorized as intermediately tolerant plant species. API results suggested that A. scholaris, C. fistula, M. longifolium, P. pinnata and S. cumini should be planted for air pollution mitigation. Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo) results showed that soil samples were moderately contaminated with three (Pb, Cu and Zn) metals. Bioaccumulation factor (BAF), for all metals among six plant species, was found to be less than one implying that these plants were absorbers of metals. Metal Accumulation Index (MAI) indicated that C. thevetia, C. fistula and P. pinnata exhibited relatively higher potential for metal accumulation.

Effect of Foliar Application of Humic Acid on Vegetative Growth Attributes of Jamun (Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels.) cv. Goma Priyanka

A field experiment was carried out at Instructional Farm, Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture and Forestry in Jhalarapatan, Jhalawar during 2021-22 and 2022-23 with the object of assessing the response of foliar application of humic acid on growth attributes of Jamun (Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels) cv. Goma Priyanka. The experiment comprised of 4 treatment combinations in randomized block design with three replications consisted of HA0: [Control], HA1: [1000ppm humic acid], HA2: [2000 ppm humic acid], and HA3: [3000 ppm humic acid]. On the basis of the results emanated from present investigation, it could be concluded that foliar application of humic acid HA3 (3000 ppm) was significantly superior plant growth parameters viz. rootstock girth, scion girth, plant height, canopy volume, canopy spread E-W, N-S, of Jamun cv. Goma Priyanka plants.

A review of the pharmacological and bioactive compounds of syzygium cumini

The field of herbal medicine has grown rapidly in the past several years, and due to their natural origins and lower side effects, these medications are becoming more and more well-liked in both developed and developing nations. The plant known as jamun, Syzygium cumini (also called Eugenia jambolana, Syzygium jambolana, Eugenia cumini, and Syzygium jambos), is a great source of bioactive substances such flavonoids, polyphenols, antioxidants, iron, and vitamin C. The Myrtaceae family includes the essential medicinal plant known as the jamun tree, which is a tropical evergreen blooming plant that has long been utilized in Indian and other traditional remedies around the world. The majority of jamun's cultivation occurs in Asian nations like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, and Pakistan. It has been used to treat a wide range of illnesses and physiological disorders since the days of ancient medicine. In terms of medicine, the fruit is said to have properties that help with hyperlipidemia, hypertension, obesity, antidiarrheal, antiallergic, antiarthritic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antifertility, antipyretic, antiplaque, radioprotective, neuropsychopharmacological, and antiulcer, hepatoprotective, antiallergic, antiarthritic, antioxidant, and various metabolic problems. This review examines the various dietary applications as well as the nutritional, phytochemical, and medicinal possibilities.

Antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities of ethanol extracts from Syzygium cumini L. Skeels and Pogostemon cablin Benth

Syzygium cumini and Pogostemon cablin are mostly cultivated in tropical climates for culinary and perfumery purposes, yet their potential medicinal properties remain underreported. The aim of this study was to examine the antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities of ethanol extracts from S. cumini (EESC) and P. cablin (EEPC). Reflux extraction was carried out using 96% ethanol on the collected plant specimens to produce EESC and EEPC. Secondary metabolites of each extract were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The extracts were measured for total phenol and flavonoid levels and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity. The immunomodulatory activity test was carried out in vivo by assessing several parameters, including the phagocytic index via the carbon clearance method, organ indices, antibody titers, and delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, using sheep red blood cells (SRBC) as antigens. The extracts were also examined for their anti-inflammatory activity in acute and chronic inflammation models. In the DPPH antioxidant test, EESC and EEPC had IC50 values of 12.33 µg/mL and 182.17 µg/mL, respectively. Both extracts showed immunosuppressant activity, marked by a phagocytic index of <1. EESC yielded lower organ indices for the liver (p=0.025 at 200 mg/kg BW), spleen (p=0.028 at 100 mg/kg BW), and thymus (p=0.032 at 200 mg/kg BW) compared to the control group. For EEPC, lower organ indices were observed in the liver at 100 mg/kg BW (p=0.005) and 200 mg/kg BW (p=0.031). In the primary antibody titer and DTH tests, both EESC and EEPC showed immunosuppressant activity at 200 and 400 mg/kg BW (p<0.05). The extracts suppressed both the innate and adaptive immune systems. Both EEPC (p=0.004) and EESC at 100 mg/kg BW (p=0.03) significantly reduced serum TNF-α levels. In conclusion, EESC and EEPC have the potential as immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory agents.

Development and Characterization of Film-Forming Solution Loaded with Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels for Topical Application in Post-Surgical Therapies.

Considering the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties attributed to compounds in Syzygium cumini extract, this research aimed to advance postoperative therapeutic innovations. Specifically, the study assessed the physicochemical properties of a film-forming solution (FFS) incorporated with S. cumini, evaluating its therapeutic potential for postoperative applications. The S. cumini extract was meticulously characterized to determine its chemical composition, with particular emphasis on the concentration of phenolic compounds. Antioxidant and antimicrobial assays were conducted to assess the extract's efficacy in these domains. Following this, an FFS containing S. cumini was formulated and evaluated comprehensively for skin adhesion, mechanical and barrier properties, and thermal behavior. The antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the S. cumini extract demonstrated promising results, indicating its potential utility as an adjunct in postoperative care. The developed FFS exhibited favorable physicochemical properties for topical application, including adequate skin adhesion and appropriate pH levels. Moreover, chemical and thermal analyses confirmed the formulation's stability and the retention of the extract's beneficial properties. Overall, the findings suggest that the S. cumini-loaded FFS holds significant potential as a valuable therapeutic tool for post-surgical management.

Effects of hydrogen enrichment on the performance and emission characteristics of a diesel engine with the addition of Syzygium cumini (Jamun) biodiesel

ABSTRACT Biofuel made from Syzygium cumini, often known as Jamun, has the potential to be a low-cost, sustainable, and emission-free alternative. In this work, we experimentally explore the performance of a compression ignition (CI) engine that burns a blend of hydrogen and biodiesel. Hydrogen is pumped into the air intake manifold by means of a hydrogen gaseous supplement that, when exposed to atmospheric conditions, co-combusts with a pilot flame ignited by Jamun oil. To investigate the impact of hydrogen supplementation on performance and exhaust emission, a variety of hydrogen–Jamun fuel mixture proportions are provided to the engine. The research demonstrates that adding hydrogen improves the thermal efficiency (5%) of diesel engines whereas lowering specific energy fuel consumption (4%) at fixed Jamun flow rates. The gas emission data demonstrates that when hydrogen (HC) emission (12%) supplements decreases, NOx emission (10%) increases somewhat but opacity (8%) increases significantly. The experiment demonstrates that hydrogen and Jamun duel fuel in compression ignition engines burn smoothly.

Enhanced efficiency, electron lifetime, and eco-friendliness of dye-sensitized solar cells using nanofibrous TiO2/ZnO composite photoanodes and natural anthocyanin sensitizer

Semiconductor is the main part of the photoanode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In this study, an evaluation was conducted on two different morphological shapes of TiO2/ZnO semiconductors, namely nanoparticles (NPs) and nanofibers (NFs), to enhance the efficiency of DSSCs. The nanofibrous semiconductors were fabricated using the electrospinning technique. Furthermore, a natural sensitizer, anthocyanin dye, was used to promote the environmental friendliness of the fabricated cells. These cells were then compared to those that used a synthetic dye known as N719 to determine their efficiencies. The UV-vis results confirmed the extraction of anthocyanin from black plum fruits (Syzygium cumini). The structural characteristics of the composites were examined using XRD, FE-SEM, and BET experiments. The XRD results revealed that the anatase phase of TiO2 was dominant in the crystal structure of the semiconductors, while the crystallite sizes of the composites were 25.04 nm and 12.24 nm in NPs and NFs forms, respectively. The FE-SEM analysis revealed the formation of quasi-spherical NPs with an average diameter of 48.26 ± 17.75 nm and NFs with an average diameter of 153.99 ± 26.18 nm. The BET results showed that the surface characteristics of the nanocomposite were enhanced by changing the shape from NPs to NFs. Photovoltaic studies showed that utilizing NFs semiconductors in the photoanodes of DSSCs resulted in increased conversion efficiency of light to electricity. The results of the sun simulator studies confirmed that the use of natural dye led to a decrease in the effectiveness of the DSSCs. This phenomenon can be attributed to the weaker binding of the natural dye to the photoanodes. Furthermore, the EIS investigations illustrated that the electron lifetime in the natural dye is more than twice that of N719, leading to a reduced rate of electron recombination in the Syzygium cumini extract. The TiO2/ZnO NFs photoanodes exhibited superior performance compared to their nanoparticle counterparts in DSSCs. Their high surface area promoted superior dye adsorption and light absorption. Moreover, the interconnected nanofiber network facilitated efficient electron transport, minimizing recombination losses. Increasing the binding strength of the chosen natural dye to the photoanode will also make the cells more environmentally friendly and improve their ability to produce electricity.

Optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction method of Syzygium cumini leaves based on extraction yield, content of bioactive compound, and inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase IV enzyme activity using response surface methodology

Syzygium cumini leaves show potential to be developed as herbal medicine products against diabetes mellitus due to their high polyphenol contents. S. cumini was optimized using response surface methodology and Box–Behnken design with solvent solid ratio, solvent concentration, time and temperature, extraction yield, total flavonoid content (TFC), total phenolic content (TPC), and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) enzyme inhibitory activity to obtain an effective and optimal extraction method. The conditions were achieved using a 70% ethanol solvent for the extraction, with a solvent–solid ratio of 21 v/w and run at 20°C for 30 min. The results showed an extraction yield of 83.875%, with TFCs measuring at 3.068 mg QE/g, TPCs of 65.029 mg GAE/g, and DPP-IV enzyme inhibition activity of 66.079%. Further analysis of the phytochemical profile using untargeted liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry showed the presence of amine, amide, and fatty acid derivatives as major constituents. In addition, major flavonoids observed were myricetin and myricitrin, accounting for 0.2%. Ursolic acid and 25-azacholesterol accounted for 1.03% of the phenolics detected.

Development of multi-herbal formulation with enhanced antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antiaging properties

We developed a multi-herbal formulation (MCCSSTAMP) containing Mentha piperita, Allium sativum, Syzygium aromaticum, Curcuma longa, Syzygium cumini, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Coriandrum sativum, Murraya koenigii and Piper nigrum which was found to be versatile for the development of novel medicines and cosmetic products. The formulation was prepared using a hydro-alcoholic base and its phytochemical composition was analyzed. The initial phytochemical analysis revealed that MCCSSTAMP contained various phytochemicals, with the highest concentrations of phenolic content. The antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, cytotoxic, and anti-aging properties of the MCCSSTAMP were explored. The formulation showed potent anti-microbial efficacy against various microorganisms, including antibiotic-resistant strains. MCCSSTAMP also demonstrated potent anti-oxidant activity, effectively scavenging free radicals and chelating metal ions. Furthermore, it exhibited cytotoxic activity against carcinoma cell lines, comparable to a standard chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin. The formulation has a potential anti-aging agent and skin-whitening additive due to its significant inhibitory activity against enzymes involved in the aging process, such as hyaluronidase, elastase, and tyrosinase. Our study claims that the efficacy was attributed to the synergistic effect of combining multiple herbs in the formulation. Further, it acted as a viable source of nutritional supplements for the nutraceutical industry, as all of the plants used in the formulation are edible, making it a promising candidate for cancer treatment research and its application in cosmetic products to address hyperpigmentation and maintain skin integrity.

Utilizing Indigenous Flora in East Africa for Breast Cancer Treatment: An Overview

Background: Breast cancer is a significant global health challenge, contributing substantially to cancer- related deaths. Conventional treatment methods, including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, surgical interventions, and radiation, have long been utilized. However, these traditional treatments are often associated with serious side effects and drug resistance, limiting their efficacy. Aim: This review aims to explore the potential of medicinal plants used in breast cancer management in East Africa, focusing on their bioactive compounds and anticancer properties. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to examine the effectiveness of medicinal plants in treating breast cancer across Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Relevant studies published between 2003 and 2023 were identified using keywords related to breast cancer and medicinal plants. The search was performed across multiple databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Science Direct. Results: Numerous natural compounds found in East African medicinal plants including Cymbopogon citratus (Lemongrass,) Tabebuia avellanedae, Prunus africana (African Cherry), Euclea divinorum, Berberis holstii, Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha, Curcuma longa (Turmeric), Garcinia mangostana (Mangosteen, Vitis vinifera (Grapevine), Eugenia jambolana (Java Plum), Moringa oleifera (Drumstick Tree), Camellia sinensis (Tea), Glycine max (Soybean), Catharanthus roseus, Madagascar Periwinkle), Rhus vulgaris (Wild Currant) exhibit significant anticancer properties. These compounds have demonstrated the ability to reduce breast cancer aggressiveness, inhibit cancer cell proliferation, and modulate cancer-related pathways. Current research focuses on these natural and dietary compounds to develop more effective strategies for treating breast cancer. Conclusion: The findings suggested that East African medicinal plants hold promise as complementary treatments for breast cancer, offering potential benefits such as affordability, cultural appropriateness, and sustainability. Further research into these plants and their bioactive compounds could revolutionize breast cancer treatment, improving survival rates and addressing the rising incidence of breast cancer-related fatalities. Other: The review underscores the importance of continued research, conservation, and the integration of ancient healing methods to fully harness the potential of East African flora in breast cancer management.

Ameliorative extract Syzygium cumini seed extract on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant activity in alloxan induced diabetic Wistar albino rats

Aim: This study intends to examine the protective effects of an aqueous extract of Syzygium cumini seed on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activities in alloxan-induced diabetic Wistar albino rats. Methodology: A single intraperitoneal injection of 150 mg kg-1 b.wt of alloxan monohydrate was used to induce diabetes in rats. Syzygium cumini group rats were later administered 300 mg kg-1 of Syzygium cumini seed extract by oral gavage for 21 days. On 22nd day, the animals were given general anaesthesia, blood was drawn through the retroorbital plexus, and the kidneys were promptly removed. Lipid peroxidation levels were assessed in the blood (serum) and kidney tissues by measuring the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as GST, GPX, SOD and CAT were examined in the blood and kidneys. Results: The acute toxicity experiments revealed that Syzygium cumini did not cause any obvious toxicity indications or mortality at a dosage of 300 mg kg-1, proving the safety of this extract with a broad therapeutic index. The results obtained showed that using aqueous Syzygium cumini seed extract for 21 days considerably (P <0.05) increased the antioxidant enzyme activity for GST, GPx, SOD and CAT, while significantly (P <0.01) decreasing the TBARS levels. Interpretation: Conclusively, the seed extract of Syzygium cumini might be a possible treatment for controlling hyperglycemic oxidative stress complications owing to its antioxidant properties. Key words: Albino rats, Antioxidant enzymes, Lipid peroxidation, Syzygium cumini, Seed extract

A Brief Overview of Syzygium Cumini and its Active Compounds in the Treatment of Diseases

Objective: The present study aimed to identify in the literature the bioactive compounds present in the extracts of leaves, fruits, and seeds of Syzygium cumini and their uses as therapy for some diseases. Theoretical Framework: Phytotherapy, a therapeutic method characterized using medicinal plants, has been widely employed in combating pathogenic microbial agents. Among the naturally occurring compounds used for this purpose is S. cumini. Various activities have been described for the compound, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, among others. Method: For this study, articles were searched in the LILACS, MEDLINE, and PUBMED databases, spanning the time frame from 2015 to 2020, using the following descriptors: Syzygium cumini; Phytotherapy; Natural Products. Sixteen articles related to the subject were chosen to be included in the study. Results and Discussion: With the data collection, it was possible to observe that S. cumini and its compounds are extensively studied due to their anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, antibacterial, antihypertensive, among other activities. Research Implications: Based on the data found, it was possible to demonstrate that S. cumini exhibits excellent phytotherapeutic activities, thus being able to be used for the treatment of various diseases, especially those of metabolic and bacterial origin. Originality/Value: This study offers a significant contribution to the literature by highlighting the main therapeutic effects of S. cumini and its active compounds in treating diseases. Furthermore, this natural product can have a significant impact on public health by offering effective and affordable alternatives for treating a variety of conditions.

Quantitative Phytochemical Investigation, Antibacterial Potency, and Drug-ability Assessment of Three Indian Medicinal Plants Leaf Extracts Using Bioinformatics Tools

Natural regimens have long-held ethnomedicinal values, serving as primary sources for mainstream medicine. Therefore, scientists are paying more attention to studying the biological activity of existing plant species in organized ways to select potent bioactive metabolites to use for specific therapeutic purposes. This study used the same approach to find potent antibacterial phytoconstituents in three well-known Indian medicinal plants: Psidium guajava L., Syzygium cumini L. and Punica granatum L. In the earlier study, methanolic leaf extracts of the above plant extracts were more effective than n-hexane extracts against biofilm and drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria. Accordingly, we selected methanolic crude extracts for gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify the phytoconstituents presented. In addition, we added a few reported candidates from the above plant extracts for molecular docking studies against four bacterial targets. For molecular docking studies, we retrieved all phytoconstituents or ligands from the PubChem database and bacterial target proteins from the protein data bank using PyRx 0.8-AutoDock 4.2 software. Furthermore, we used various bioinformatics and chemoinformatics tools to examine the investigated phytoconstituents physicochemical properties, toxicity, and drug-ability profiles. Out of the 30 GC-MS report-derived candidates from three plants, P5 from P. guajava, P18 from S. cumini, and P21 from P. granatum had the potent binding ability with bacterial targets. In the same way, out of the 30 reported candidates, P39, P43, and P56 from three plants, along with amikacin, showed strong binding against the same bacterial target. Both sets of candidates showed favorable physicochemical and toxicity profiles; however, all GC-MS-derived and few reported candidates exhibited negative drug-likeness. The study reveals that these crude extracts have antibacterial properties because they contain both GC-MS and existing phytoconstituents. The study starts with a crude extraction and then uses bioinformatics to choose two possible antibacterial candidates, ursolic acid and punicacortein A. This platform could be useful for finding an antibacterial agent that works specifically on a specific target. To sum up, the study encourages the isolation of more bioactive candidates from different Indian medicinal plants and uses bioinformatics tools to speed up the selection of strong leads that can speed up the process of making antibacterial drugs within limited resources.

Evaluation of antioxidant potential of anthocyanin-rich hydro ethanol extract of Syzygium cumini fruit pulp in various in vitro models and in food supplement enriched with omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have immense health benefits but are highly susceptible to oxidation due to high degree of unsaturation in their molecular structure. Therefore, development of omega-3 fatty acids fortified stable functional food is a challenging task. The aim of the study was to evaluate antioxidant potential of anthocyanin-rich hydro ethanol extract of Syzygium cumini fruit pulp extract in various in vitro models and in omega-3 fatty acids enriched food supplement in bulk oil and oil-in-water emulsions model systems along with chemical analysis of the fruit pulp extract and evaluation of its cytotoxic potential, if any. The in vitro antioxidant potential was evaluated by DPPH radical scavenging, ABTS°+ decolorization and Fe2+ ion chelating methods. Antioxidant activity against oxidation of omega-3 fatty acids enriched food supplement in bulk oil and oil-in-water emulsions model systems was evaluated by monitoring primary oxidation, secondary oxidation and total oxidation of the omega-3 enriched oil using AOCS guidelines and iodometric method. Chemical analysis was performed by HR-LCMS analysis technique. Cytotoxic potential was evaluated by Allium cepa test. The test extract exhibited varying degrees of antioxidant activity in various in vitro models as well as against oxidation of omega-3 fatty acids enriched food supplement both in bulk oil and oil-in-water emulsions model systems. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of three major tentatively identified compounds malvidin-3,5-diglucoside, delphinidin-3,5-diglucoside and peonidin-3,5-diglucoside as major components of the extract. Test extract did not show any cytotoxic potential at recommended dosage level with LC50> 1000 µg/ml. The results provide evidence that anthocyanin-rich hydro ethanol extract of Syzygium cumini fruit pulp may serve as a potential source of safe and effective, novel natural antioxidant for retarding oxidation of omega-3 fatty acids enriched food supplement which subsequently may help to develop omega-3 fortified stable functional foods in food industry.

Nanoparticles based on biopolymers improved antioxidant activity of phenolic compounds from jambolan (Syzygium cumini (L.) skeels)

Jambolan (Syzygium cumini L.) is an underutilized fruit rich in bioactive phenolic compounds, specially anthocyanins, but the low stability of these substances and interaction with other compounds in the food matrix limit their application as food additives; nanoencapsulation is the best strategy to overcome these limitations. This study aimed to nanoencapsulate a phenolic-rich jambolan extract using whey proteins and pectin by nanoprecipitation in different antisolvent compositions. Two formulations were synthesized (7.33 % extract, 1.67 % pectin, and 5 % concentrated or isolated whey protein) precipitated in different acetone concentrations (50, 70, and 100 % v/v). SEM showed particles with spherical shape and smooth surface. DLS pointed diameters between 82 nm and 116 nm. FTIR indicated chemical interactions between the materials. Encapsulation efficiency showed high phenolic compounds entrapment in all systems [73.81–84.65 %, p > 0.05]. However, particles precipitated in 50 and 100 % acetone (v/v) showed greater anthocyanins retention [56.89–35.24 %, p < 0.05]. Nanoencapsulation potentiated the antioxidant activity up to 110 % more than the crude extract (p < 0.05). These results show the potential of nanoprecipitation as an effective encapsulation process and the biopolymers combination to produce nanoparticles containing jambolan phenolic compounds to promote their application in foods and health products.

GC-MS Analysis and Evaluation of Combination effect of Syzygium cumini L. Skeels Ethanolic Seed Extract and Vancomycin against Clinical Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Syzygium cumini (L.) has been traditionally used as an antimicrobial agent and is potential to be developed. The ethanol extract of S. cumini seed was obtained through maceration and assessed for its antibacterial activity using a dilution method, with extract concentrations of 1.625; 3.125; 6.25; 12.5, and 25mg/ml. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) of the extract-antibiotic combination against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus were determined. Phytochemical screening was performed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and the result revealed the presence of 22 compounds in S. cumini ethanolic seed extract, including fatty acids (69.63%), sesquiterpenes (11.29%), monoterpenes (2.94%), steroids (6.06%), and others (8.59%). The MIC of the single extract and vancomycin against the tested bacteria was 0.78mg/ml and 2µg/ml, respectively. The lowest concentration (MIC) of the extract-vancomycin combination inhibiting the growth of MRSA was 0.39mg/ml. The FICI value was 1.5, suggesting indifferent interaction between the extract and antibiotic.

Phenotypic and Molecular-Markers-Based Assessment of Jamun (Syzygium cumini) Genotypes from Pakistan

Jamun plant displays enormous diversity throughout Pakistan, which necessitates its screening, evaluation, and validation to document elite genotypes having better traits for the benefit of the fruit industry and farmers. Surveys were made in natural Jamun habitats across Punjab, Pakistan, and genotypes were marked based on visual diversity of trees and fruits. In total, 60 Jamun genotypes were selected for characterization based on phenotypic and genetic markers. Phenotypic characters related to trees, leaf, and flower along with fruit qualitative traits were assessed in situ. Results revealed significant diversity with high (&gt;25%) coefficient of variance values and the first two components of correspondence analysis exhibited 41.71% variation among genotypes. A strong association was observed among traits like upright tree and round fruit shape (0.74), bluish-colored fruit and pinkish pulp (0.85), and elliptic-shaped fruit with low fruit waxiness (−0.72). Leaves of phenotypically characterized plants were brought to Wheat Biotechnology Lab., University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, where Jamun genotypes were investigated genetically using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers. A total of 132 bands were scored, of which 108 were polymorphic, corresponding to almost 81% polymorphism among collected genotypes. High polymorphism information content values were observed against RAPD (0.389) and ISSR (0.457) markers. Genotypes were compared in relation to genetic markers, which exhibited that almost 86% of genetic variability was attributed to differences among accessions, while 14% of variation was due to differences between collections of different areas. Findings of this study confirmed wide phenotypic and genetic distinctness of Jamun in Pakistan that can aid breeders for marker-assisted selection and germplasm enhancement for future crop improvement programs.