Research progress of proanthocyanidins and anthocyanidins

Three physical modifications enhanced the binding interactions of Cyperus esculentus protein with proanthocyanidins and physicochemical properties of complexes: The contribution of non-covalent interactions

This study investigated non-covalent interactions between unmodified/modified (ball-milling, BMP; high pressure homogenization, HPHP; cold plasma, CPP) Cyperus esculentus protein (CEP) and proanthocyanidins (PA and PB2) to evaluate structure, functionalities and potential in emulsions. The PA and PB2 addition significantly increased the turbidity and ζ-potential of CEP samples, as confirmed by aggregations observed via atomic force microscopy, validating the formation of protein-proanthocyanidin complexes. Fluorescence quenching and isothermal titration calorimetry revealed that procyanidins caused CEP sample static quenching, with CEP-proanthocyanidins binding affinity order as CPP > HPHP>BMP > CEP. The CEP-proanthocyanidins involve non-covalent interactions, driven by hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions, without altering CEP sample spectral bands and secondary structures, but enhancing thermal stabilities, antioxidant activities, and emulsifying properties. Then, the CPP-PA stabilized emulsion droplet size decreased with aqueous phase pH increasing, contrary to ζ-potential values. Conclusively, these findings illustrated that the modified CEP-proanthocyanidin complexes as a promising strategy for addressing these challenges and stabilizing emulsion.

Genetic mechanisms, biological function, and biotechnological advance in sorghum tannins research

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) holds a unique position in the human diet and serves as a stable food source in many developing countries especially in African and south Asian regions. Tannins, the primary secondary metabolites in sorghum, are pivotal in determining its characteristic bitter taste. Beyond their influence on flavor, tannins play a vital role in sorghum's resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses and serve as key indicators of grain quality. The concentration of tannins significantly affects the potential for diverse applications of sorghum. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of sorghum tannins, focusing on their genetic basis, biological activities, and biosynthesis mechanisms. It highlights the relationship between tannin levels and grain color and delves into the underlying biogenetic pathways. Furthermore, the potential of functional genomics and biotechnological approaches in precisely controlling tannin levels for sorghum breeding is discussed. This study aims to offer valuable insights and perspectives for advancing both the scientific understanding and practical applications of sorghum tannins.

Buckwheat UDP-Glycosyltransferase FtUGT71K6 and FtUGT71K7 Tandem Repeats Contribute to Drought Tolerance by Regulating Epicatechin Synthesis

Glycosyltransferase genes are organised as tandem repeats in the buckwheat genome, yet the functional implications and evolutionary significance of duplicated genes remain largely unexplored. In this study, gene family analysis revealed that FtUGT71K6 and FtUGT71K7 are tandem repeats in the buckwheat genome. Moreover, GWAS results for epicatechin suggested that this tandem repeat function was associated with epicatechin content of Tartary buckwheat germplasm, highlighting variations in the promoter haplotypes of FtUGT71K7 influenced epicatechin levels. FtUGT71K6 and FtUGT71K7 were shown to catalyse UDP-glucose conjugation to cyanidin and epicatechin. Furthermore, overexpression of FtUGT71K6 and FtUGT71K7 increased total antioxidant capacity and altered metabolite content of the epicatechin biosynthesis pathway, contributing to improved drought tolerance, while overexpression of FtUGT71K6 significantly improved salt stress tolerance. However, overexpression of these two genes did not contribute to resistance against Rhizoctonia solani. Evolutionary selection pressure analysis suggested positive selection of a critical amino acid ASP-53 in FtUGT71K6 and FtUGT71K7 during the duplication event. Overall, our study indicated that FtUGT71K6 and FtUGT71K7 play crucial roles in drought stress tolerance via modulating epicatechin synthesis in buckwheat.

Metabolome and transcriptome profiling reveals light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis and anthocyanin-related key transcription factors in Yam (Dioscorea Alata L.)

BACKGROUND

Yam is a globally significant crop with both culinary and medicinal value. Anthocyanin, an important secondary metabolite, plays a key role in determining the nutritional quality of yams. However, the research on the light-induced anthocyanins accumulation in yams remains limited. In this study, we revealed light-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis and identified transcription factors associated with anthocyanin-related pathways in yam. These findings enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying light-mediated anthocyanin regulation in yams.

RESULTS

Significant variations in color were observed in the stems, leaves, and tuber roots of the two yam varieties 'Xuwen' and 'Luhe'. Under light conditions, the total anthocyanin content in 'Xuwen' tuber roots was significantly higher than that under dark conditions. The targeted metabolomics analysis of anthocyanins identified that procyanidin and cyanidin glycosides, such as cyanidin-3-O-(sinapoyl)sophoroside, cyanidin-3-O-sophoroside, procyanidin B1, procyanidin B3, and quercetin-3-O-glucoside, were the primary anthocyanin components. These compounds were responsible for the observed differences in anthocyanin content between the two varieties and were significantly influenced by light conditions. The non-targeted metabolomics analysis further revealed that light also induce the biosynthesis of flavonoids. Transcriptome analysis showed significant differences in the expression levels of MYB, ERF, and WRKY transcription factors (TFs) between the two yam varieties, with these expressions being strongly influenced by light conditions. The association analysis of the anthocyanin metabolome, candidate TFs, and structural genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis revealed significant correlations. Specifically, MYB (Dioal.09G044700 and Dioal.12G068700) and WRKY (Dioal.20G040900 and Dioal.12G062900) showed strong correlations with procyanidins, anthocyanins, and the structural genes associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis. RT-qPCR confirmed that the expression patterns of these four TFs, strongly induced by light, were consistent with the expression of structural genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study provide useful insights into the regulation of light on anthocyanin accumulation in yam, and will be helpful for yam breeding and cultivation practices.

Quantitative Comparison of Yield, Quality, and Metabolic Products of Different Medicinal Parts of Two Types of Perilla frutescens Cultivated in a New Location from Different Regions

This study focuses on multiple origins of green-back purple and dual-faced purple Perilla frutescens, employing field cultivation experiments combined with detection methods, such as HPLC, LC-MS, and GC-MS, to compare the differences in yield, quality, and metabolic products of the different colored P. frutescens. The results indicate that green-back purple P. frutescens significantly outperformed dual-faced purple P. frutescens in terms of leaf, stem, and seed yields, while the effective component contents in the leaves and seeds of dual-faced purple P. frutescens are higher than those of dual-faced green P. frutescens. An analysis of the anthocyanin components in P. frutescens leaves and the volatile components in P. frutescens seeds shows that the total anthocyanin content in dual-faced purple P. frutescens leaves is 34.63% higher than that in green-back purple P. frutescens, whereas the total volatile components in the seeds of green-back purple P. frutescens exceeds those in dual-faced P. frutescens by 12.99%. The Mantel test indicates a potential correlation mechanism between the anthocyanin components in P. frutescens leaves and the volatile components in P. frutescens seeds, which are significantly associated with the yield quality of both P. frutescens leaves and seeds. This study found that P. frutescens with blue-green leaves yields more than double-sided purple P. frutescens, although the quality of its leaves and seeds is inferior to that of double-sided purple P. frutescens. Furthermore, the anthocyanin components in P. frutescens leaves and the volatile components in P. frutescens seeds exhibit significant correlations with the yield and quality of both leaves and seeds, offering important insights for the production and application of P. frutescens.

Effect of different phospholipids on the co-encapsulation of curcumin and oligomeric proanthocyanidins in nanoliposomes: Characteristics, physical stability, and in vitro release

In the present study, the differences among NLs prepared with soybean phospholipids (SPL), soybean phosphatidylcholine (PC), and sunflower seed phospholipids (SSPL) were investigated. The structural characteristics, physical stability, in vitro release, and bio-accessibility of NLs co-encapsulating curcumin (Cur) and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC) were evaluated. Compared with PC and SSPL, SPL co-encapsulated Cur and OPC NLs (SPL-co-loaded-NLs) had a smaller particle size (147 nm), a more uniform shape (spherical bilayer structure), and better size homogeneity. In addition, SPL-co-loaded-NLs also possessed the highest stability, antioxidant capacity (DPPH· scavenging rate: 38.79 %, FRAP value: 0.17 mmol Fe2+/mL), and bio-accessibility (Cur: 93 %, OPC: 96 %). Furthermore, FT-IR and XRD confirmed that the higher stability of SPL-co-loaded-NLs compared with other NLs was due to their tighter lipid structure, tighter lipid aggregation, and stronger hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions between active substances and phospholipids. This study was expected to provide a theoretical reference for developing functional foods with co-encapsulated active substances of different polarities.

Integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics unravel the biosynthZaesis mechanism of anthocyanin in postharvest red raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.)

Introduction

Anthocyanins are crucial secondary metabolites that are responsible for pigment deposition in fruits. Raspberry fruit color shifts from white to red during natural or postharvest ripening. However, the precise mechanisms and biosynthetic pathways of anthocyanins in postharvest raspberries remain unclear.

Methods

This study used metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses to explore anthocyanin biosynthesis in postharvest raspberries at various color stages: white (RBT-1), white-to-pink (RBT-2), pink (RBT-3), red (RBT-4), and deep red (RBT-5).

Results

We identified 43 key metabolites, and 13,239 DEGs linked to anthocyanin biosynthesis in postharvest raspberry colour development, including cyanidin-3-O-sophoroside and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside. The key DAMs in colored raspberries were gentiobioside, pelargonidin-3,5-O-diglucoside, cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside, and pelargonidin-3-O-sambubioside. Transcriptome analysis revealed 32 differentially expressed structural genes linked to anthocyanin and flavonoid synthesis, with significant upregulation of PAL, CHS, F3H, C4H, F3'H, DFR, ANS, CHI, and UFGT genes, which promote anthocyanin synthesis and pigment accumulation. Integrated analysis showed that cyanidin-3-O-sophoroside was correlated with 9 structural genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis, 19 transcription factors (TFs), and 14 hormone signaling-related genes.

Discussion

This study explored the regulatory mechanisms of MYB, WRKY, bHLH, and NAC transcription factors, as well as structural genes and phytohormone-related genes, in modulating anthocyanin metabolism during postharvest color changes in raspberries. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing postharvest fruit storage conditions and enhancing fruit quality.

Tough, antibacterial, and antioxidant chitosan-based composite films enhanced with proanthocyanidin and carvacrol essential oil for fruit preservation

Post-harvest fruits are susceptible to microbial infections and spoilage, and the development of multifunctional green preservation films to extend the shelf-life of fruits is desirable. In this study, multifunctional antibacterial and antioxidant fruit preservation films were developed by incorporating natural plant actives of proanthocyanidins and carvacrol essential oils into chitosan-dialdehyde cellulose composite films. The composite film had good mechanical properties, with a tensile strength of 78.8 MPa, a free radical scavenging rate of over 90 %, and enhanced barrier properties against UV light and water vapor. The diameters of the inhibition zones of the composite film for S. aureus and E. coli were 23.65 mm and 22.37 mm, respectively. In addition, the composite film was biocompatible and the survival rate of cells treated with the composite film solution was more than 90 %. Using strawberries as model fruit, we showed that the composite film could effectively inhibit the growth of colonies on the surface of the fruit and reduce the weight loss rate. These results demonstrated that the composite film has great potential for fruit preservation.

A decade review on phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Cynomorium songaricum Rupr.: Insights into metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND

Cynomorium songaricum Rupr. (CSR), a perennial herb with a rich history in traditional medicine, has demonstrated therapeutic potential against metabolic syndrome (MetS) through its active compounds, including proanthocyanidins, polysaccharides, and triterpenoids. MetS, a global health concern, encompasses interlinked conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and inflammation. This review synthesizes recent findings on CSR's pharmacological and phytochemical properties, focusing on its role in ameliorating MetS.

METHODS

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, relevant studies were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI databases up to December 2024. Keywords included "Cynomorium Songaricum Rupr.", "Cynomorii Herba", "Suoyang", "Suo Yang", "Metabolic syndrome", "Proanthocyanidins", "Polysaccharides" and "Triterpenoids" and their combinations. Inclusion criteria emphasized studies exploring CSR's impact on MetS, while duplicate, low-quality studies and studies not written in Chinese, English, or unrelated were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 92 studies were analyzed, revealing that CSR's active components exhibit multi-target effects. Proanthocyanidins reduce glucose absorption and oxidative stress, polysaccharides enhance insulin sensitivity and gut microbiota composition, and triterpenoids mitigate obesity and mitochondria damage. These mechanisms collectively contribute to the beneficial effects of CSR against MetS.

CONCLUSION

CSR presents a promising natural therapy for MetS, utilizing its pharmacologically active compounds to address core metabolic dysfunctions. Future studies should focus on clinical validation and safety assessments to facilitate CSR's integration into modern therapeutic regimens.

R2R3-MYB transcription factor CaMYB5 regulates anthocyanin biosynthesis in pepper fruits

Anthocyanins, are key polyphenolic secondary metabolites, such as delphinidin, cyanidin, rutin, and epicatechin that regulate plant coloration. Purple pepper fruits have high commercial value and industrial application potential due to their rich in accumulation of anthocyanins. This study identified and cloned an R2R3-MYB transcription factor, CaMYB5 from pepper fruits. Localization assay showed that CaMYB5 is located in the nucleus, while its expression profiles exhibited increasing trends during the pepper pericarp development. Functional analysis showed that transient silencing of CaMYB5 inhibited both delphinidin and cyanidin accumulation, and significantly reduced the expression levels of s anthocyanin biosynthesis structural genes in pepper fruits. In contrast, overexpression of CaMYB5 not only induced delphinidin and cyanidin accumulation, but also increased the expression levels of anthocyanin biosynthesis structural genes in fruits. DNA affinity purification sequencing, yeast one-hybrid, electrophoretic mobility shift, and dual luciferase assays indicated that CaMYB5 could bind to the CaPAL promoter and activate its expression. Overall, these results suggest that CaMYB5 is a critical upstream positive regulator of phenylpropanoid metabolism for enhanced anthocyanin accumulation in pepper fruits.

Proanthocyanidin polymers (condensed tannins) from lychee seeds exhibit antioxidant, anticancer, anti-α-amylase, and anti-tyrosinase activities

Lychee (Litchi chinensis) is a subtropical fruit known for its potential health benefits. In this study, proanthocyanidins (condensed tannins) from lychee seeds (LSPAs) were isolated using a bioactivity-guided approach. Their structural characteristics, as well as antioxidant, anticancer, anti-α-amylase, and anti-tyrosinase activities, were comprehensively analyzed. Structural analysis using mass spectrometry revealed that LSPAs are polymeric compounds predominantly composed of procyanidins (PCs), with a number-average molecular weight (Mn) of 5803 Da as determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). LSPAs exhibited significant antioxidant activity in DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays, with IC50 values of 28.8 ± 1.3, 24.29 ± 1.93, and 119.67 ± 32.85 μg/mL, respectively. The FRAP assay showed antioxidant activity of 0.45 ± 0.01 μM Fe(II) equivalent/g DW. The CCK-8 assay demonstrated potent anti-breast cancer efficacy of LSPAs (IC50 = 25.78 ± 0.37 μg/mL). Notably, LSPAs suppressed mammosphere formation and downregulated Sox2 and NICD1 expression in breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Molecular docking and dynamics simulations confirmed stable interactions between LSPAs and Sox2, primarily mediated by van der Waals forces. Enzyme kinetics and fluorescence spectroscopy further revealed that LSPAs effectively inhibited both α-amylase (IC50 = 0.12 ± 0.004 μg/mL) and tyrosinase (IC50 = 66.34 ± 0.37 μg/mL) activities by inducing conformational alterations and modifying the amino acid microenvironment of these enzymes. These findings establish LSPAs as promising multifunctional inhibitors with potential applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Grain bound polyphenols: Molecular interactions, release characteristics, and regulation mechanisms of postprandial hyperglycemia

Frequent postprandial hyperglycemia causes many chronic diseases. Grain polyphenols are widely recognized as natural active ingredients with high potential to treat chronic diseases due to their excellent postprandial hyperglycemic regulating effects. However, previous studies on polyphenols in grains mainly focused on the functional properties of free polyphenols and the extraction and physicochemical properties of bound polyphenols, ignoring the functional properties of bound polyphenols. Comprehensively understanding the binding properties of grain bound polyphenols (GBPs) and their mechanisms in regulating blood glucose levels is essential for developing and applying grain resources. This review summarizes the molecular interactions between GBPs and grain components and their effects on release characteristics and bioavailability at various stages. Meanwhile, the review focuses on elucidating the regulatory mechanism of post-release GBPs on postprandial hyperglycemia levels, incorporating insights from molecular docking, the gastrointestinal-brain axis, and gut flora. GBPs slow food digestion by occupying the active site of digestive enzymes and altering the secondary structure of enzymes and the hydrophobic environment of amino acid residues to inhibit enzyme activity. They modulate intestinal epithelial transport proteins (SGLT1, GLUT2, and GLUT4) to limit glucose absorption and increase glucose consumption. They also stimulate the release of short-term satiety hormones (CKK, GLP-1, and PYY) through the gastrointestinal-brain axis to decrease post-meal food intake. Furthermore, they optimize gut microbiota composition, promoting short-chain fatty acid production and bile acid metabolism. Therefore, developing functional foods with glucose-modulating properties based on GBPs is crucial for obesity prevention, diabetes management, and low-GI food development.

Composition and antioxidant activity of flavonoids from two different species of Amomi Fructus extracted using natural deep eutectic solvents

Amomi Fructus, a mature fruit from a ginger family plant, has various species, resulting in inconsistent sourcing and quality. Most studies distinguish species by volatile compounds, yet research shows it also contains flavonoids with notable pharmacological effects. Solely focusing on volatile compounds could lead to considerable resource waste. This study aims to establish flavonoid markers in Amomi Fructus to distinguish its species, assess quality, and promote efficient resource use. Utilizing natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) and response surface methodology (RSM), an optimal extraction system (choline chloride-ethylene glycol) yielded 41.38 mg RE/g total flavonoids. LC-MS analysis of 18 Amomi Fructus batches identified 26 flavonoids, quantified 19, and highlighted three key markers-epicatechin, procyanidin B2, and procyanidin B4-that effectively differentiate Amomum villosum Lour. (AMV) from Amomum villosum Lour. var. xanthioides T.L. Wu et Senjen (AMVX). Finally, flow cytometry confirmed these markers' antioxidant activity, effectively reducing H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage in GES-1 cells.

Research Progress of Genomics Applications in Secondary Metabolites of Medicinal Plants: A Case Study in Safflower

Medicinal plants, recognized as significant natural resources, have gained prominence in response to the increasing global demand for herbal medicines, necessitating the large-scale production of these plants and their derivatives. Medicinal plants are exposed to a variety of internal and external factors that interact to influence the biosynthesis and accumulation of secondary metabolites. With the rapid development of omics technologies such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, multi-omics technologies have become important tools for revealing the complexity and functionality of organisms. They are conducive to further uncovering the biological activities of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants and clarifying the molecular mechanisms underlying the production of secondary metabolites. Also, artificial intelligence (AI) technology accelerates the comprehensive utilization of high-dimensional datasets and offers transformative potential for multi-omics analysis. However, there is currently no systematic review summarizing the genomic mechanisms of secondary metabolite biosynthesis in medicinal plants. Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) has rich and diverse bioactive flavonoids, among of which Hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) is specific to safflower and emerging as a potential medication for treating a wide range of diseases. Hence, significant progress has been made in the study of safflower as an excellent example for the regulation of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants in recent years. Here, we review the progress on the understanding of the regulation of main secondary metabolites at the multi-omics level, and summarize the influence of various factors on their types and contents, with a particular focus on safflower flavonoids. This review aims to provide a comprehensive insight into the regulatory mechanisms of secondary metabolite biosynthesis from the perspective of genomics.

Inflammation-driven biomimetic nano-polyphenol drug delivery system alleviates severe acute pancreatitis by inhibiting macrophage PANoptosis and pancreatic enzymes oversecretion

INTRODUCTION

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is a critical inflammatory disease with high morbidity and mortality. Current treatments focused on symptomatic relief but failed to prevent inflammation progression in cellular level.

OBJECTIVES

In order to develop an SAP-targeting drug delivery system to alleviate SAP in cellular level and illustrate its mechanism, we explored the use of proanthocyanidin (PYD) and pentoxifylline (PTX) loaded into macrophage membrane-coated self-assembly nanoparticles (FePTX@CM NPs) for targeted SAP treatment. The combination application of these two drugs was innovative in SAP aid.

METHODS

We developed the NPs by self-assembly strategy and cell membrane coating. Its particle size and zeta potential were measured by dynamic light scatter (DLS). The morphology of the NPs was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). And the encapsulation efficiency was evaluated by nano-flow cytometry. The total protein profile was determined via Coomassie brilliant blue. We explore the mechanism of our NPs against SAP in cellular and animal levels. Bioinformatics approaches, TEM, immunofluorescent assay and co-immunoprecipitation were performed to comprehensively explain the specific anti-SAP mechanism of FePTX@CM NPs.

RESULTS

After inflammation-driven targeting, PYD in the NPs inhibited pancreatic amylase and lipase release by suppressing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS)/Golgi stress, while PTX prevented SAP-associated macrophage PANoptosis by inhibiting Zbp1 signal pathway. The protection effect of these biomimetic NPs worked from different aspects to alleviate SAP symptoms and inflammation progression in relative cells.

CONCLUSION

The FePTX@CM NPs demonstrated effective pancreas targeting, reduced systemic inflammation especially pro-inflammatory cell recruitment and activation, and minimized tissue damage in SAP mouse models, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for clinical SAP management.

Seasonal Coloration and Ecological Adaptations of Adventitious Roots of Four Salicaceous Species in Jiuzhaigou World Natural Heritage Site, Southwestern China

Jiuzhaigou is a world natural heritage with extraordinary beauty of wetlands largely developed on tufa landforms. The wetlands are dominated by shrubs and trees. A striking feature of dense and plentiful adventitious roots is found during summer, and the color changes to unnoticeable during winter. Despite the visual prominence of this phenomenon, its biochemical mechanisms and ecological significance remain unexplored. Integrating field surveys, anatomical analyses, and biochemical profiling to decipher coloration dynamics and their potential as environmental bioindicators, results indicate that dense adventitious roots were found only with willow and poplar species in the tufa wetlands in Shuzheng and Rize valleys. Adventitious roots displayed specialized adaptations, including well-developed aerenchyma, degenerated mechanical tissue and xylem, and a floating habit on the water surface, which enhances oxygen uptake in aquatic habitats. Seasonal color variations followed a distinct temporal pattern, transitioning from red or pink hues in summer to reddish-brown in spring and autumn, and maroon or gray in winter. Proanthocyanidins were identified as principal pigments, with their oxidation into quinones under the influence of temperature and light driving the observed color transitions. The proanthocyanidins redox dynamics reflect seasonal fluctuations in air temperature and solar irradiance, providing a novel biomarker for assessing climate impacts on wetland ecosystems. The close link between seasonal color change of adventitious roots and the aquatic environment sheds new light on effective ecosystem management in karst areas.

Chemistry of lignin and condensed tannins as aromatic biopolymers

Aromatic biopolymers are the second largest group of biopolymers after polysaccharides. Depolymerization of aromatic biopolymers, as cheap and renewable substitutes for fossil-based resources, has been used in the preparation of biofuels, and a range of aromatic and aliphatic small molecules. Additionally, these polymers exhibit a robust UV-shielding function due to the high content of aromatic groups. Meanwhile, the abundance of phenolic groups in their structures gives these compounds outstanding antioxidant capabilities, making them well-suited for a diverse array of anti-UV and medical applications. Nevertheless, these biopolymers possess inherent drawbacks in their pristine states, such as rigid structure, low solubility, and lack of desired functionalities, which hinder their complete exploitation across diverse sectors. Thus, the modification and functionalization of aromatic biopolymers are essential to provide them with specific functionalities and features needed for particular applications. Aromatic biopolymers include lignins, tannins, melanins, and humic acids. The objective of this review is to offer a thorough reference for assessing the chemistry and functionalization of lignins and condensed tannins. Lignins represent the largest and most prominent category of aromatic biopolymers, typically distinguishable as either softwood-derived or hardwood-derived lignins. Besides, condensed tannins are the most investigated group of the tannin family. The electron-rich aromatic rings, aliphatic hydroxyl groups, and phenolic groups are the main functional groups in the structure of lignins and condensed tannins. Methoxy groups are also abundant in lignins. Each group displays varying chemical reactivity within these biopolymers. Therefore, the selective and specific functionalization of lignins and condensed tannins can be achieved by understanding the chemistry behavior of these functional groups. Targeted applications include biomedicine, monomers and surface active agents for sustainable plastics.

A comprehensive review on the promising purple leaf tea

Purple leaf tea products (PTPs) are processed from purple tea leaves (PTLs) and combine unique color, flavors, and superior health benefits, holding promising market potential. However, PTLs contain unique chemical compositions, and the lack of systematic generalization of PTPs processing techniques has led to the under-representation of their unique qualities. Compared to traditional green leaf tea products, knowledge about PTPs is extremely limited and lacks a systematic framework linking chemical composition, processing techniques, and health benefits, which has largely limited the exploitation of PTPs. This review summarizes the chemical composition of PTLs, highlights variations across tea processing techniques, and their effects on the flavor qualities of PTPs. It also explores the potential health benefits of PTPs and examines the challenges of incorporating PTPs into the food industry, offering insights into potential applications. The chemical composition of PTLs is characterized by its unique polyphenolic profile, rich in anthocyanins, catechins, O-methyl catechins, and aroma components such as α/β-ionone and linalool. This unique chemical composition requires suitable processing methods to maximize its flavor qualities and health-promoting effects. PTPs offer notable potential health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotective, and anti-obesity effects, primarily due to their polyphenolic components. Additionally, PTPs show great potential as natural colorants and in applications such as dietary supplements and tea-flavored beverages. Based on these overviews, key challenges and possible future research directions are also outlined, especially in advancing production techniques, systematically evaluating health benefits, and expanding food applications.

Preliminary phytochemical screening and antioxidant activity of Annona deceptrix (Westra) H. Rainer an endemic and endangered species of Ecuador

Annona deceptrix (Westra) H. Rainer belongs to the Annonaceae family which is known to have bioactivities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflamatory, pesticide, among others. A. deceptrix ethanolic seed and leaf extracts obtained by three extraction methods (Soxhlet, ultrasound, and maceration) were tested for phytochemical and antioxidant activities. Phytochemical screening of plant extracts revealed the presence of catechins, triterpenes, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, amino acids, cardiac glycosides, anthocyanidins, reducing sugars, and saponins. Quantitative determination of total phenolic, flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activities of extracts was carried out using colorimetric methods. The highest total phenolic content was 58.14 and 54.08 mg GAE/g DW for Soxhlet extracts from leaves and seeds, respectively. The highest total flavonoid content was 5.03 and 4.42 mg QE/ g DW for macerated and ultrasound-assisted extracts from leaves, respectively. Antioxidant activity by the DPPH method was 196.07 and 146.53 μmol TE/g DW for Soxhlet extracts from seeds and leaves, respectively, and by the ABTS method was 582.68 and 580.40 μmol TE/g DW for Soxhlet and macerated extracts from leaves, respectively. Further research is needed to optimize the use of such bioactive compounds produced by Annona deceptrix and apply their biological activities in the pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, or agrochemical industries.

Polymerization of proanthocyanidins under the catalysis of miR397a-regulated laccases in Salvia miltiorrhiza and Populus trichocarpa

Proanthocyanidins (PAs) play significant roles in plants and are bioactive compounds with health benefits. The polymerization mechanism has been debated for decades. Here we show that laccases (LACs) are involved in PA polymerization and miR397a is a negative regulator of PA biosynthesis in Salvia miltiorrhiza and Populus trichocarpa. Elevation of miR397a level causes significant downregulation of LACs, severe reduction of polymerized PAs, and significant increase of flavan-3-ol monomers in transgenic S. miltiorrhiza and P. trichocarpa plants. Enzyme activity analysis shows that miR397a-regulated SmLAC1 catalyzes the polymerization of flavan-3-ols and the conversion of B-type PAs to A-type. Both catechin and epicatechin can serve as the starter unit and the extension unit during PA polymerization. Overexpression of SmLAC1 results in significant increase of PA accumulation, accompanied by the decrease of catechin and epicatechin contents. Consistently, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated SmLAC1 knockout shows the opposite results. Based on these results, a scheme for LAC-catalyzed PA polymerization is proposed. The work provides insights into PA polymerization mechanism.

Optimization of pH-responsive microgel for the co-delivery of Weizmannia coagulans and procyanidins to enhance survival rate and tolerance

The purpose of this study was to prepare a pH-responsive microgel for co-delivering Weizmannia coagulans 99 (BC99) and procyanidins (PCs) to enhance the survival rate and tolerance of probiotics in complex micro-environment. The effects of different concentrations of PCs on the properties of microgels were optimized, and found that the spherical microgels had higher encapsulation efficiency (90.27 ± 2.51%) and smaller size when the concentration of PCs was 20 μg/mL. The interaction among PCs, pectin and protein could effectively improve the survival rate of BC99 under different pH, bile salt, digestive enzyme and temperature conditions, maintain their stability in acidic gastric fluid, and realize the release of probiotics in neutral intestinal fluid. Moreover, the microgel was able to protect BC99 against H2O2 and antibiotics. This work provides a pH-responsive co-loaded microgels for BC99 and PCs, and has the potential in the loading and delivery of other probiotics and polyphenols.

New insights into the reduction of protein degradation in freshwater fish by proanthocyanidins: Inhibition mechanism and the conformational changes of endogenous cathepsin B

Endogenous cathepsin B (CTSB) plays an important role in protein degradation, which accelerates the decline in the quality of grass carp muscle. Proanthocyanidins (PC) can protect fish texture by inhibiting protein degradation; however, the corresponding mechanism is still unclear. This study comprehensively explored the inhibitory effect of PC on the conformational changes of CTSB through multispectral and molecular simulation methods. PC inhibited CTSB activity through a reversible mixed-type inhibition mode with IC50 value of 134.56 ± 0.02 μmol/L. The binding of PC damaged the hydrogen bonding network structure of CTSB. The docking score was -7.1 kcal/mol, representing a high affinity between CTSB and PC. Molecular simulation found that PC maintained the stability of the CTSB-PC complex by interacting with several key residues (Trp221, Gly24 and Gly198) of CTSB. Therefore, this study can provide a theoretical basis for the application of polyphenols in inhibiting endogenous CTSB-induced fish muscle protein degradation.

Enhanced Corneal Repair with Hyaluronic Acid/Proanthocyanidins Nanoparticles

This study investigates the therapeutic potential of hyaluronic acid/proanthocyanidin (HA/PAC) nanoparticles in treating alkali-induced corneal burns. Alkali burns are common ocular emergencies that can lead to severe vision impairment if not promptly and properly treated. The low water solubility of proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents, limits their bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. To overcome this, hyaluronic acid (HA) was utilized as a carrier to form HA/PAC nanoparticles, enhancing PAC's solubility and bioavailability. The HA/PAC nanoparticles were characterized for morphology, granulometric distribution, hemolysis, and cytotoxicity, demonstrating high blood compatibility and noncytotoxicity. The in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities of HA/PAC were evaluated, showing enhanced activity compared to PAC alone. In vivo studies on C57 mice confirmed the accelerated healing of corneal injuries and reduced corneal opacity with HA/PAC treatment. Histopathological analysis and cytokine quantification further supported the anti-inflammatory and proregenerative effects of HA/PAC, suggesting its potential as an effective treatment for corneal alkali burns.

Effect of proanthocyanidins on cognitive improvement in thyroxin-induced aging mice

As the population ages, functional dietary supplements are increasingly used to reduce age-related diseases, especially in the field of cognitive impairment. In this study, a thyroxine (Th)-induced aging model was established, and the effect of proanthocyanidins (Pc) on cognitive impairment of aging mice was evaluated based on cognitive ability, neuroinflammation and immune level. The results showed that Pc significantly reduced AchE activity compared to the Model group, improving learning deficits and spatial memory in aged mice (P < 0.01). Further study showed that Pc could maintain the organism's redox balance, markedly increasing T-AOC, GSH, and SOD levels (P < 0.01) while reducing MPO and MDA levels (P < 0.01). Pc also improved systemic inflammation, raising the levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine PF4 and significantly lowering pro-inflammatory factors in the blood (P < 0.01). In the DG region of the hippocampus, Pc effectively repaired nerve damage, inhibited the over-activation of microglia and astrocytes, down-regulated GFAP and IBA-1 proteins (P < 0.01), and then reduced neuroinflammation. Additionally, Pc supplementation also significantly increased the levels of WBC, Lymph, Mid, and Gran in aged mice (P < 0.01), aiding in the recovery of leukocyte counts. At the same time, the CD3+ level and CD4+/CD8+ ratio were significantly increased (P < 0.01) to maintain the dynamic balance of lymphocyte subsets in aging mice and enhance the immune capacity of aging mice. The study revealed that Pc, as a dietary supplement, can effectively alleviate cognitive impairment in the elderly population. This provides a new dietary nutrition supplement strategy for the health of the aging population.

Enhancing stability, bioavailability and nutritional intervention effect of procyanidins using bio-based delivery systems: A review

Procyanidins (PCs), a kind of polyphenolic compound, have attracted extensive attention due to their strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other activities. However, PCs are susceptible to complex micro-environments, resulting in low stability, poor target tissue delivery and bioavailability, which limits their biological effects. Therefore, it is urgent to find some suitable pathways to protect PCs, avoid their degradation, and maximize their health benefits in nutritional intervention. This review focused on the design and construction of different types of bio-based delivery systems loaded with PCs, such as nanoparticles, microparticles, emulsions, liposomes, hydrogels and fibers. The advantages and biological effects of PCs-based delivery systems in promoting cellular uptake, realizing targeted release of organs, cells and organelles, and even nutritional intervention for different chronic diseases were summarized. Furthermore, the development prospects and challenges of delivery systems in the field of precision nutrition were discussed. The construction of these delivery systems can effectively improve the stability and bioavailability of PCs, and maximize their precise nutritional intervention for various chronic diseases.

Dynamic changes of anthocyanins during 'Ziyan' tea wine processing

In this study, the dynamic changes of different anthocyanins in the processing of 'Ziyan' tea wine were investigated quantitatively. Results showed that six types of anthocyanins, namely petunidin, malvidin, pelargonidin, delphinidin, cyanidin and peonidin, as well as two co-pigmented substances, procyanidins and flavonoids, were detected in 'Ziyan' tea wine. As fermentation proceeded, the contents of petunidin, pelargonidin, delphinidin, cyanidin and peonidin decreased. Among them, petunidin, peonidin and pelargonidin showed a tendency of decreasing first, then increasing and finally decreasing, whereas delphinidin and cyanidin continued to decrease during fermentation. Variation trend of procyanidins and flavonoids was consistent with those of petunidin. Furthermore, metabolism of delphinidin, cyanidin and pelargonidin were main pathways responsible for the anthocyanin changes during 'Ziyan' tea wine processing. These findings suggested that the color of 'Ziyan' tea wine was achieved by the combination of various anthocyanins in different ratios and the co-pigmentation of procyanidins and flavonoids.

Overexpression of ZlMYB1 and ZlMYB2 increases flavonoid contents and antioxidant capacity and enhances the inhibition of α-glucosidase and tyrosinase activity in rice seeds

Anthocyanins are natural flavonoids with a high antioxidant power and many associated health benefits, but most rice produce little amounts of these compounds. In this study, 141 MYB transcription factors in 15 chromosomes, including the nucleus-localised ZlMYB1 (Zla03G003370) and ZlMYB2 (Zla15G015220), were discovered in Zizania latifolia. Overexpression of ZlMYB1 or ZlMYB2 in rice seeds induced black pericarps, and flavonoid content, antioxidant capacity, and α-glucosidase and tyrosinase inhibition effects significantly increased compared to those in the control seeds. ZlMYB1 and ZlMYB2 overexpression induced the upregulation of 764 and 279 genes, respectively, and the upregulation of 162 and 157 flavonoids, respectively, linked to a black pericarp phenotype. The expression of flavonoid 3'-hydroxylase and UDP-glycose flavonoid glycosyltransferase, as well as the activities of these enzymes, increased significantly in response to ZlMYB1 or ZlMYB2 overexpression. This study systematically confirmed that the overexpression of ZlMYB1 and ZlMYB2 promotes flavonoid biosynthesis (especially of anthocyanins) in rice.

Phosphorylated octa-aminopropyl POSS grafting on proanthocyanidin interface decorated 2D MXene for enhanced flame-retardancy of cotton fabric nanocomposites

Two-dimensional (2D) nanosheet materials (MXenes) have unparalleled advantages in the field of flame-retardant multifunctional composites, but their dispersibility, flame retardancy and compatibility with the matrix are poor and need to be enhanced. In this research, we employed interfacial decoration and grafting modification to firstly introduce proanthocyanidins (PCs) onto MXenes surface (forming PC-MXenes) to increase the number of available active sites. On this basis, phosphorylated A-POSS was grafted onto PC-MXene (resulting in PAP@P-MXene) via a one-pot method, organic-inorganic hybrid flame-retardant PAP@P-MXene nano-coatings were subsequently constructed on the surface of cotton fabrics via an immersion method, and their structure-property relationships were verified. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results revealed that PAP@P-MXene displayed a high char residue content of 32.0 % at 800 °C, illustrating its pretty good fire-safety properties. Typically, the residual char amount of coated cotton fabric with 12 wt% PAP@P-MXene (C-PAP@P-MXene-3) under a N2 atmosphere was as high as 37.1 %. Additionally, the limiting oxygen index (LOI) increased to 31 %, while the peak heat release decreased by 79.83 %. C-PAP@P-MXene-3 also displayed a UL-94 V-0 rating and self-extinguishing ability, all of which demonstrated excellent fire safety performance. The unique 2D nanosheet structure of MXenes, along with their innovative structural design and synergistic flame-retardant strategy, endows the nanomaterials with good dispersibility and flame-retardant effects, which has led to the development of new flame-retardant strategies and expanded the potential applications of MXene materials.

VdCHS2 Overexpression Enhances Anthocyanin Biosynthesis, Modulates the Composition Ratio, and Increases Antioxidant Activity in Vitis davidii Cells

Anthocyanins are significant secondary metabolites that are essential for plant growth and development, possessing properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities and cardiovascular protection. They offer significant potential for applications in food, medicine, and cosmetics. However, since anthocyanins are mainly obtained through plant extraction and chemical synthesis, they encounter various challenges, including resource depletion, ecological harm, environmental pollution, and the risk of toxic residuals. To address these issues, this study proposes a plant cell factory approach as a novel alternative solution for anthocyanin acquisition. In this study, the VdCHS2 gene was successfully transformed into spine grape cells, obtaining a high-yield anthocyanin cell line designated as OE1. Investigations of the light spectrum demonstrated that white light promoted spine grape cell growth, while short-wavelength blue light significantly boosted anthocyanin production. Targeted metabolomics analysis revealed that the total anthocyanin content in the OE1 cell line reached 11 mg/g, representing a 60% increase compared to the WT. A total of 54 differentially accumulated metabolites were identified, among which 44 were upregulated. Overexpression of the CHS gene enhanced the expression of downstream genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis, resulting in the differential expression of CHI, F3Hb, F3'5'H, DFR4, and LDOX. This led to the differential accumulation of anthocyanin monomers, predominantly consisting of 3-O-glucosides and 3-O-galactosides, thereby causing alterations in anthocyanin levels and composition. Furthermore, the OE1 cell line increased the activity of various antioxidant enzymes, improved the clearance of reactive oxygen species, and reduced the levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA). The subsequent cultivation of the transformed OE1 cell line, in conjunction with cell suspension culture, established a plant cell factory for anthocyanin production, significantly increasing anthocyanin yield while shortening the culture duration. This study elucidates the molecular mechanisms through which the VdCHS2 gene influenced anthocyanin accumulation and compositional variations. Additionally, it established a model for a small-scale anthocyanin plant cell factory, thereby providing a theoretical and practical foundation for the targeted synthesis of anthocyanin components and the development and utilization of plant natural products.

The Effect of High-Pressure Processing on the Copigmentation and Storage Stability of Polyphenols with Anthocyanin Monomers

This study aims to determine the effect of different high-pressure processing (HPP) conditions (100 MPa/300 MPa/500 MPa; 2 min/4 min/6 min) on copigmentation, specifically between chlorogenic acid (CA), epicatechin (Epi), gallic acid (GA), malvidin-3-O-galactoside (Mv-3-O-gal), and malvidin-3-O-arabinoside (Mv-3-O-ara), as well as the storage stability of the copigmentation solutions. The results showed that the influence of different HPP treatment conditions on copigmentation was not significant. HPP treatment did not significantly affect the λmax, peak absorption, color parameters, and Mv-3-O-gal anthocyanin content when applied alone or in combination with CA and Epi. However, the color intensity and a* value of Mv-3-O-gal with GA decreased by 3.2% (p < 0.05). The absorption peak, color, and content of Mv-3-O-ara were not affected by HPP alone or during copigmentation with CA, Epi, and GA. In addition, CA had the best effect on the co-coloring of Mv-3-O-gal, while GA was more successful in affecting Mv-3-O-ara during the storage period. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that the aromatic ring of CA was closest to the A-C plane of Mv-3-O-gal (3.70 Å), resulting in a closer π-π stacking distance and higher bond energy. The favorable impact of GA on Mv-3-O-ara was because the A-C plane aromatic ring of Mv-3-O-ara and the aromatic D ring of GA formed "sandwich" stacking. The results indicated that combining HPP with polyphenols improved color and could be used to process raw materials containing malvidin, such as blueberries.

Overexpression of LAR1 Suppresses Anthocyanin Biosynthesis by Enhancing Catechin Competition Leading to Promotion of Proanthocyanidin Pathway in Spine Grape (Vitis davidii) Cells

Proanthocyanidins (PAs) are a class of polyphenolic compounds recognized for their potent antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties. However, the production of PAs from natural sources is often limited by high costs, resource wastage, and environmental damage. In this study, we investigated the overexpression of VdLAR1, along with phenotypic observation, metabolite determination, light quality treatment, and RT-qPCR analysis, in spine grape cells. The results demonstrated a significant increase in the contents of proanthocyanidins and flavonoids in pVdLAR1-overexpressing transgenic cell lines, while anthocyanin levels showed a decreasing trend. Furthermore, the treatment with white and blue light on the T5 cell line resulted in enhanced accumulation of proanthocyanidins, catechins, and flavonoids, whereas anthocyanins and epicatechins exhibited a declining pattern. Thus, short-wavelength light promoted the accumulation of metabolites, with the proanthocyanidin content in the T5 transformed cell line reaching 2512.0 μg/g (FW) during blue light incubation. RT-qPCR analysis revealed that the key genes involved in the biosynthesis of proanthocyanidin and anthocyanin were upregulated in the transgenic spine grape cell lines, with VdLAR1 expression increasing by several hundredfold, far surpassing the expression levels of LDOX and ANR. The VdLAR1 overexpression markedly improved substrate competitiveness within the metabolic pathway, promoting catechin biosynthesis while inhibiting the production of epicatechins and anthocyanins. This finding provides compelling evidence that LAR1 is a crucial gene for catechin biosynthesis. This research establishes both theoretical and practical foundations for the regulation and development of natural proanthocyanidins, addressing issues related to high costs, safety concerns, resource wastage, and environmental damage associated with their production.

Unveiling the potential applications of buds of Lonicera japonica Thunb. var. chinensis (Wats.) Bak based on in vitro biological activities, bio-active components, and potential applications coupled to targeted metabolomics

Introduction

The buds of Lonicera japonica Thunb. var. chinensis (Wats.) Bak, commonly named red honeysuckle, have attracted attention because of their bright colors. However, owing to the lack of systematic studies, the potential applications of red honeysuckle are not clear, and its development and utilization have not been well known.

Methods

In this study, compared with the buds of L. japonica Thunb. (honeysuckle), the potential applications of red honeysuckle were explored based on biological activities, bio-active components, and sensory flavor combined with widely targeted metabolomics.

Results

As a result, in vitro tests showed that it had a stronger antioxidant and a stronger inhibitory effect on the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. There was no cytotoxicity on LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells in its aqueous extract using the CCK-8 method. Moreover, it also had a stronger effect on inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). The content of its bio-active components chlorogenic acid and cynaroside was significantly higher (p ≤ 0.001) than that of green honeysuckle. Widely targeted metabolomics analysis revealed that 4 volatile metabolites, such as (E)-4-hexene-1-ol and pyrazole, and 21 non-volatile metabolites, such as macranthoside B and oleanolic acid-3-O-glc(1-2)-(ara)-28-O-glucoside ester, were specific in red honeysuckle. Interestingly, 14 specific terpenoid metabolites were triterpenoid saponins, indicating a stronger biological activity in red honeysuckle. The sensory flavor analysis showed that the red honeysuckle had a stronger herbal and lighter floral flavor.

Discussion

In conclusion, red honeysuckle had great development value with potential applications in medicines, foods, beverages, pigment additives, and health products.

Bioinspired Wet Adhesive Proanthocyanidins Microneedles for Ocular Wound Healing

Microneedles have shown considerable potential in treating ocular diseases, yet enhancing their architecture and functionality to improve therapeutic efficacy poses marked challenges. Here, inspired by the antioxidant strategy of blueberries and the wet adhesive mechanism of clingfish, we construct hierarchical and multifunctional microneedles. These microneedles possess both wet adhesive and antioxidant properties, making them highly effective for ocular wound healing. Constructed using polyacrylic acid-N-hydroxysuccinimide-based hydrogel with hexagonal structures, these generated microneedles ensure strong adhesion in wet environments. Furthermore, by incorporating proanthocyanidins (pAc) into the tips, the microneedle is imparted with excellent competence to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). In the rat model of ocular alkali burns, the designed microneedle not only exhibited robust adhesion and desirable antioxidant properties in the moist ocular environment but also facilitated sustained drug release and effective treatment. These results suggest that our bioinspired microneedles with multifunctional properties offer substantial advancement over conventional approaches, positioning them as promising candidates for versatile wound healing applications.

α-Arbutin ameliorates UVA-induced photoaging through regulation of the SIRT3/PGC-1α pathway

Owing to its tyrosinase inhibitory activity, α-arbutin has been added to several skin care products as a skin-lightening agent. However, the protective effect of α-arbutin against ultraviolet A (UVA)-induced photoaging has not been well investigated. The present study was designed to investigate the photoprotective effect and mechanism of α-arbutin against UVA-induced photoaging. In vitro experiments, HaCaT cells were treated with UVA at a dose of 3 J/cm2 to evaluate the anti-photoaging effect of α-arbutin. α-Arbutin was found to exhibit a strong antioxidant effect by increasing glutathione (GSH) level and inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Meanwhile, α-arbutin markedly improved the expression of sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1 α (PGC-1α) proteins, initiating downstream signaling to increase mitochondrial membrane potential and mediate mitochondrial biogenesis, and improve mitochondrial structure significantly. In vivo analysis, the mice with shaved back hair were irradiated with a cumulative UVA dose of 10 J/cm2 and a cumulative ultraviolet B (UVB) dose of 0.63 J/cm2. The animal experiments demonstrated that α-arbutin increased the expression of SIRT3 and PGC-1α proteins in the back skin of mice, thereby reducing UV-induced skin damage. In conclusion, α-arbutin protects HaCaT cells and mice from UVA damage by regulating SIRT3/PGC-1α signaling pathway.

Effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract on cholesterol metabolism and antioxidant status in finishing pigs

Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) is a natural polyphenolic compound, which plays an important role in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of GSPE supplementation on the cholesterol metabolism and antioxidant status of finishing pigs. In longissimus dorse (LD) muscle, the data showed that GSPE significantly decreased the contents of total cholesterol (T-CHO) and triglyceride (TG), and decreased the mRNA expression of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoAR) and Fatty acid synthase (FAS), while increased the mRNA expression of carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1b (CPT1b), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARα) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α). GSPE also reduced the enzyme activities of HMG-CoAR and FAS, and meanwhile amplified the activity of CPT1b in LD muscle of finishing pigs. Furthermore, dietary GSPE supplementation increased the serum catalase (CAT) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), serum and liver total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels, while reduced serum and liver malondialdehyde (MDA) level in finishing pigs. In the liver, Superoxide Dismutase 1 (SOD1), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1), Nuclear Factor erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (NRF2) mRNA levels were increased by GSPE. In conclusion, this study showed that GSPE might be an effective dietary supplement for improving cholesterol metabolism and antioxidant status in finishing pigs.

The impact of CYP3A4 genetic polymorphism on crizotinib metabolism and drug-drug interactions

To elucidate the impact of CYP3A4 activity inhibition and genetic polymorphism on the metabolism of crizotinib. Enzymatic incubation systems for crizotinib were established, and Sprague-Dawley rats were utilized for in vivo experiments. Analytes were quantified using LC-MS/MS. Upon screening 122 drugs and natural compounds, proanthocyanidins emerged as inhibitor of crizotinib metabolism, exhibiting a relative inhibition rate of 93.7%. The IC50 values were 24.53 ± 0.32 μM in rat liver microsomes and 18.24 ± 0.12 μM in human liver microsomes. In vivo studies revealed that proanthocyanidins markedly affected the pharmacokinetic parameters of crizotinib. Co-administration led to a significant reduction in the AUC(0-t), Cmax of PF-06260182 (the primary metabolite of crizotinib), and the urinary metabolic ratio. This interaction is attributed to the mixed-type inhibition of liver microsome activity by proanthocyanidins. CYP3A4, being the principal metabolic enzyme for crizotinib, has its genetic polymorphisms significantly influencing crizotinib's pharmacokinetics. Kinetic data showed that the relative metabolic rates of crizotinib across 26 CYP3A4 variants ranged from 13.14% (CYP3A4.12, 13) to 188.57% (CYP3A4.33) when compared to the wild-type CYP3A4.1. Additionally, the inhibitory effects of proanthocyanidins varied between CYP3A4.12 and CYP3A4.33, when compared to the wild type. Our findings indicate that proanthocyanidins coadministration and CYP3A4 genetic polymorphism can significantly influence crizotinib metabolism.

Genome-wide analysis of the bZIP gene family in Cinnamomum camphora ('Gantong 1') reveals the putative function in anthocyanin biosynthesis

Basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factors (TFs) regulate plant development, growth, and secondary metabolism. The formation of red bark of new ornamental cultivar 'Gantong 1' is regulated mainly by anthocyanin anabolism. However, it is unclear whether and which bZIP TFs are involved in this process. We identified 89 genes encoding CcbZIP TFs in Cinnamomum camphora genome that could be divided into 14 subfamilies with similar gene structures and conserved motifs. CcbZIP38 and CcbZIP57 were highly conserved compared to HY5 in Arabidopsis thaliana and they were highly expressed in the bark and leaves of 'Gantong 1' at different stages. The target gene enrichment analysis showed that indicating indirect involvement of CcbZIP38 and CcbZIP57 in the regulation of anthocyanin synthesis. Our study contributes to understanding the molecular mechanism of anthocyanin synthesis regulation by CcbZIP TFs and provides a theoretical basis for genetic improvement of ornamental traits in C. camphora.

Diversity in Pyracantha fortuneana fruits maturity stages enables discrepancy in the phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and tyrosinase inhibitory activity

Pyracantha fortuneana (P. fortuneana) fruit is a wild fruit that is popular because of its delicious taste and numerous nutrients, and phenolic compounds are considered to be the main bioactive components in P. fortuneana fruits. However, the relationship between phenolic compounds and their antioxidant and tyrosinase (TYR) inhibitory activities during the ripening process is still unclear. The study compared the influence of the five developmental stages on the accumulation of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and TYR inhibitory activity in the fruits of P. fortuneana. The compounds were identified by offline two-dimensional liquid chromatography-electrochemical detection (2D-LC-ECD) combined with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and the main active ingredients were quantified. The results showed that stage II had higher total phenolic and flavonoid content, as well as higher antioxidant and TYR inhibitory activity, but the total anthocyanin content was lowest at this stage. A total of 30 compounds were identified by 2D-LC-ECD. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis screened out six major potential markers, including phenolic acids, procyanidins, and flavonoids. In addition, it was found that caffeoylquinic acids, procyanidins, and flavonoids were higher in stage II than in stages I, III, IV, and V, whereas anthocyanins accumulated gradually from stages III to V. Therefore, this study suggests that the changes in antioxidant and TYR inhibitory activities of P. fortuneana during the five developmental stages may be due to the transformation of procyanidins, caffeoylquinic acids, and phenolic glycosides into other forms during the fruit maturation process. Practical Application: Differences in chemical constituents, antioxidant, and tyrosinase inhibitory activities in fruit maturity stages of P. fortuneana were elucidated to provide reference for rational harvesting and utilization of the fruits and their bioactive components. These findings are expected to provide a comprehensive assessment of the bioactive profile and guide the food industrial production.

Anthocyanin gene enrichment in the distal region of cotton chromosome A07: mechanisms of reproductive organ coloration

Introduction

The biosynthesis of secondary metabolites like anthocyanins is often governed by metabolic gene clusters (MGCs) in the plant ancestral genome. However, the existence of gene clusters specifically regulating anthocyanin accumulation in certain organs is not well understood.

Methods and results

In this study, we identify MGCs linked to the coloration of cotton reproductive organs, such as petals, spots, and fibers. Through genetic analysis and map-based cloning, we pinpointed key genes on chromosome A07, such as PCC/GhTT19, which is involved in anthocyanin transport, and GbBM and GhTT2-3A, which are associated with the regulation of anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin biosynthesis. Our results demonstrate the coordinated control of anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin pathways, highlighting the evolutionary significance of MGCs in plant adaptation. The conservation of these clusters in cotton chromosome A07 across species underscores their importance in reproductive development and color variation. Our study sheds light on the complex biosynthesis and transport mechanisms for plant pigments, emphasizing the role of transcription factors and transport proteins in pigment accumulation.

Discussion

This research offers insights into the genetic basis of color variation in cotton reproductive organs and the potential of MGCs to enhance our comprehension of plant secondary metabolism.

A chromosome-level genome reveals genome evolution and molecular basis of anthraquinone biosynthesis in Rheum palmatum

BACKGROUND

Rhubarb is one of common traditional Chinese medicine with a diverse array of therapeutic efficacies. Despite its widespread use, molecular research into rhubarb remains limited, constraining our comprehension of the geoherbalism.

RESULTS

We assembled the genome of Rheum palmatum L., one of the source plants of rhubarb, to elucidate its genome evolution and unpack the biosynthetic pathways of its bioactive compounds using a combination of PacBio HiFi, Oxford Nanopore, Illumina, and Hi-C scaffolding approaches. Around 2.8 Gb genome was obtained after assembly with more than 99.9% sequences anchored to 11 pseudochromosomes (scaffold N50 = 259.19 Mb). Transposable elements (TE) with a continuous expansion of long terminal repeat retrotransposons (LTRs) is predominant in genome size, contributing to the genome expansion of R. palmatum. Totally 30,480 genes were predicted to be protein-coding genes with 473 significantly expanded gene families enriched in diverse pathways associated with high-altitude adaptation for this species. Two successive rounds of whole genome duplication event (WGD) shared by Fagopyrum tataricum and R. palmatum were confirmed. We also identified 54 genes involved in anthraquinone biosynthesis and other 97 genes entangled in flavonoid biosynthesis. Notably, RpALS emerged as a compelling candidate gene for the octaketide biosynthesis after the key residual screening.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our findings offer not only an enhanced understanding of this remarkable medicinal plant but also pave the way for future innovations in its genetic breeding, molecular design, and functional genomic studies.

Encapsulation and Characterization of Proanthocyanidin Microcapsules by Sodium Alginate and Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Proanthocyanidins are important compounds known for their antioxidant and radical scavenging properties, but they are highly sensitive to light, heat, oxygen, and pH. In our study, proanthocyanidin was encapsulated using sodium alginate and carboxymethyl cellulose to enhance controlled release, pH stability, metal ion tolerance, temperature resistance, time release, the microencapsulation of food additives stability, antioxidant capacity analysis, and the storage period tolerance of proanthocyanidin. Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) analysis and full-wavelength UV scanning indicated the successful immobilization of proanthocyanidins into the polymeric microcapsules. The flowability and mechanical properties of the microcapsules were enhanced. Moreover, proanthocyanidin microcapsules exhibited higher thermal, pH, metal ion, time, and microencapsulation food additive stability. In addition, due to their high antioxidant properties, the proanthocyanidin microcapsules retained a greater amount of proanthocyanidin content during the gastric phase, and the proanthocyanidin was subsequently released in the intestinal phase for absorption. Thus, the study provided a systematic understanding of the antioxidant capabilities and stability of proanthocyanidin microcapsules, which is beneficial for developing preservation methods for food additives.

An updated review of YAP: A promising therapeutic target against cardiac aging?

The transcriptional co-activator Yes-associated protein (YAP) functions as a downstream effector of the Hippo signaling pathway and plays a crucial role in cardiomyocyte survival. In its non-phosphorylated activated state, YAP binds to transcription factors, activating the transcription of downstream target genes. It also regulates cell proliferation and survival by selectively binding to enhancers and activating target genes. However, the upregulation of the Hippo pathway in human heart failure inhibits cardiac regeneration and disrupts astrogenesis, thus preventing the nuclear translocation of YAP. Existing literature indicates that the Hippo/YAP axis contributes to inflammation and fibrosis, potentially playing a role in the development of cardiac, vascular and renal injuries. Moreover, it is a key mediator of myofibroblast differentiation and fibrosis in the infarcted heart. Given these insights, can we harness YAP's regenerative potential in a targeted manner? In this review, we provide a detailed discussion of the Hippo signaling pathway and consolidate concepts for the development and intervention of cardiac anti-aging drugs to leverage YAP signaling as a pivotal target.

The regulatory role of MdNAC14-Like in anthocyanin synthesis and proanthocyanidin accumulation in red-fleshed apples

Flavonoids, such as anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins (PAs), play essential roles in plant growth, development, and stress response. Red-fleshed apples represent a valuable germplasm resource with high flavonoid content. Understanding and enriching the regulatory network controlling flavonoid synthesis in red-fleshed apples holds significant importance for cultivating high-quality fruits. In this study, we successfully isolated an NAC transcription factor, MdNAC14-Like, which exhibited a significant negative correlation with the content of anthocyanin. Transient injection of apple fruit and stable expression of callus confirmed that MdNAC14-Like acts as an inhibitor of anthocyanin synthesis. Through yeast monohybrid, electrophoretic mobility shift, and luciferase reporter assays, we demonstrated the ability of MdNAC14-Like to bind to the promoters of MdMYB9, MdMYB10, and MdUFGT, thus inhibiting their transcriptional activity and subsequently suppressing anthocyanin synthesis. Furthermore, our investigation revealed that MdNAC14-Like interacts with MdMYB12, enhancing the transcriptional activation of MdMYB12 on the downstream structural gene MdLAR, thereby promoting PA synthesis. This comprehensive functional characterization of MdNAC14-Like provides valuable insights into the intricate regulatory network governing anthocyanin and PA synthesis in apple.

The Role of Anthocyanins in Plant Tolerance to Drought and Salt Stresses

Drought and salinity affect various biochemical and physiological processes in plants, inhibit plant growth, and significantly reduce productivity. The anthocyanin biosynthesis system represents one of the plant stress-tolerance mechanisms, activated by surplus reactive oxygen species. Anthocyanins act as ROS scavengers, protecting plants from oxidative damage and enhancing their sustainability. In this review, we focus on molecular and biochemical mechanisms underlying the role of anthocyanins in acquired tolerance to drought and salt stresses. Also, we discuss the role of abscisic acid and the abscisic-acid-miRNA156 regulatory node in the regulation of drought-induced anthocyanin production. Additionally, we summarise the available knowledge on transcription factors involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis and development of salt and drought tolerance. Finally, we discuss recent progress in the application of modern gene manipulation technologies in the development of anthocyanin-enriched plants with enhanced tolerance to drought and salt stresses.