Hardy kiwifruit leaves (Actinidia arguta): An extraordinary source of value-added compounds for food industry

Explore the active ingredients and potential mechanism of action on Actinidia arguta leaves against T2DM by integration of serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology

BACKGROUND

Actinidia arguta leaves (AAL) are traditionally consumed as a vegetable and as tea in folk China and Korea. Previous studies have reported the anti-diabetic effect of AAL, but its bioactive components and mechanism of action are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to identify the hypoglycemic active components of AAL by combining serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology and to elucidate its possible mechanism of action.

METHODS

Firstly, the effective components in mice serum samples were characterized by UPLC-Q/TOF-MSE. Furthermore, based on these active ingredients, network pharmacology analysis was performed to establish an "H-C-T-P-D" interaction network and reveal possible biological mechanisms. Finally, the affinity between serum AAL components and the main proteins in the important pathways above was investigated through molecular docking analysis.

RESULTS

Serum pharmacochemistry analysis showed that 69 compounds in the serum samples were identified, including 23 prototypes and 46 metabolites. The metabolic reactions mainly included deglycosylation, dehydration, hydrogenation, methylation, acetylation, glucuronidation, and sulfation. Network pharmacology analysis showed that the key components quercetin, pinoresinol diglucoside, and 5-O-trans-p-coumaroyl quinic acid butyl ester mainly acted on the core targets PTGS2, HRAS, RELA, PRKCA, and BCL2 targets and through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, endocrine resistance, and MAPK signaling pathway to exert a hypoglycemic effect. Likewise, molecular docking results showed that the three potential active ingredients had good binding effects on the five key targets.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a basis for elucidating the pharmacodynamic substance basis of AA against T2DM and further exploring the mechanism of action.

A Comprehensive Review on the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Bioactives of Kiwi and Its By-Products for Functional Foods and Cosmetics with Health-Promoting Properties

Kiwi’s increased popularity as a healthy fruit with several agro-food applications has increased the amount of bio-waste produced like leaf, peel, and seed by-products, usually combined to form a kiwi pomace, which increases the environmental footprint of kiwi fruit and waste management costs. The aim of the present study is to thoroughly review and outline the nutritional content and bioactive components of both kiwi fruit and its by-products, as well as the innovative approaches to obtain and valorize kiwi’s bioactives, phytochemicals, vitamins, and nutrients in several functional food products, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics applications with health-promoting properties. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and mechanisms of action of the extracted polyphenols, flavonoids, flavones, organic acids, and other bioactive components in both the fruit and in its functional products are also elucidated. Emphasis is given to those bioactive ingredients and extracts from kiwi by-products that can be valorized in various functional foods, supplements, nutraceuticals, nutricosmetics, cosmeceuticals, and cosmetics-related applications, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory health-promoting properties. Characteristic examples with reported health benefits are the functional kiwi fruit jelly (FKJ),fermented kiwi fruit products like wine, starchy kiwi fruit flour (SKF), and kiwi-derived functional protein bars, cheese and flour, as well as several nutraceuticals and functional cosmetics with kiwi bioactives improving their antioxidant, antiaging, and photoprotective properties, collagen synthesis, skin density, hydration, elasticity, and the wound healing process, while beneficially reducing skin roughness, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, keratinocyte death, and DNA and cell damage. The limitations and future perspectives for these kiwi bioactive-based applications are also discussed.

Ultrasound-assisted extraction of bioactive compounds from goji berries: Optimization, bioactivity, and intestinal permeability assessment

Lycium barbarum L. berries have a remarkable chemical composition and extensive biological activities, being a valuable component of health and nutraceutical practices. Nevertheless, a deep insight on the intestinal permeation of the pro-healthy bioactive compounds is urgently needed to predict the real effects on human body. This study attempted, for the first time, to optimize the Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE) of goji berries using a Response Surface Methodology approach and establish the intestinal permeation of the principal pro-healthy compounds. The optimal extraction conditions were a solid:liquid ratio of 8.75 % for 56.21 min, using an intensity of 59.05 W/m2. The optimal extract displayed a remarkable antioxidant capacity, with LC/DAD-ESI-MS analysis unveiled a diverse phytochemical profile, encompassing different compounds (e.g. glu-lycibarbarspermidine F, 2-glu-kukoamine, rutin, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid). The intestinal co-culture model demonstrated that glu-lycibarbarspermidine F (isomer 2) (73.70 %), 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (52.66 %), and isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside (49.31 %) traversed the intestinal cell layer, exerting beneficial health-promoting effects.

From by-products to new application opportunities: the enhancement of the leaves deriving from the fruit plants for new potential healthy products

In the last decades, the world population and demand for any kind of product have grown exponentially. The rhythm of production to satisfy the request of the population has become unsustainable and the concept of the linear economy, introduced after the Industrial Revolution, has been replaced by a new economic approach, the circular economy. In this new economic model, the concept of "the end of life" is substituted by the concept of restoration, providing a new life to many industrial wastes. Leaves are a by-product of several agricultural cultivations. In recent years, the scientific interest regarding leaf biochemical composition grew, recording that plant leaves may be considered an alternative source of bioactive substances. Plant leaves' main bioactive compounds are similar to those in fruits, i.e., phenolic acids and esters, flavonols, anthocyanins, and procyanidins. Bioactive compounds can positively influence human health; in fact, it is no coincidence that the leaves were used by our ancestors as a natural remedy for various pathological conditions. Therefore, leaves can be exploited to manufacture many products in food (e.g., being incorporated in food formulations as natural antioxidants, or used to create edible coatings or films for food packaging), cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries (e.g., promising ingredients in anti-aging cosmetics such as oils, serums, dermatological creams, bath gels, and other products). This review focuses on the leaves' main bioactive compounds and their beneficial health effects, indicating their applications until today to enhance them as a harvesting by-product and highlight their possible reuse for new potential healthy products.

Biological Activity and Chemical Composition of Propolis Extracts with Potential Use in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Management

Environmental sustainability is an increasing challenge in the pharmaceutical field, leading to the search for eco-friendly active ingredients. Among natural ingredients, propolis arises as an excellent alternative, being a complex substance with pharmacological properties. This work aims to explore the potential of propolis as a new pharmaceutical ingredient for the replacement of conventional vulvovaginal antifungals. Propolis extracts were obtained by Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction using different solvents (water, water/ethanol (50:50, v/v), and ethanol). Afterwards, the extracts were characterized regarding total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant/antiradical activities, radical scavenging capacity, antifungal activity against strains of Candida species, and viability effect on two female genital cell lines. The aqueous extract achieved the best TPC result as well as the highest antioxidant/antiradical activities and ability to capture reactive oxygen species. A total of 38 phenolic compounds were identified and quantified by HPLC, among which ferulic acid, phloridzin and myricetin predominated. Regarding the anti-Candida spp. activity, the aqueous and the hydroalcoholic extracts achieved the best outcomes (with MIC values ranging between 128 and 512 μg/mL). The cell viability assays confirmed that the aqueous extract presented mild selectivity, while the hydroalcoholic and alcoholic extracts showed higher toxicities. These results attest that propolis has a deep potential for vulvovaginal candidiasis management, supporting its economic valorization.

Daraesoon (shoot of hardy kiwi) mitigates hyperglycemia in db/db mice by alleviating insulin resistance and inflammation

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Mitigating insulin resistance and hyperglycemia is associated with a decreased risk of diabetic complications. The effect of Daraesoon (shoot of hardy kiwi, Actinidia arguta) on hyperglycemia was investigated using a type 2 diabetes animal model.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Seven-week-old db/db mice were fed either an AIN-93G diet or a diet containing 0.4% of a 70% ethanol extract of Daraesoon, whereas db/+ mice were fed the AIN-93G diet for 7 weeks.

RESULTS

Consumption of Daraesoon significantly reduced serum glucose and blood glycated hemoglobin levels, along with homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance in db/db mice. Conversely, Daraesoon elevated the serum adiponectin levels compared to the db/db control group. Furthermore, Daraesoon significantly decreased both serum and hepatic triglyceride levels, as well as serum total cholesterol levels. Additionally, consumption of Daraesoon resulted in decreased hepatic tumor necrosis factor-α and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that hypoglycemic effect of Daraesoon is mediated through the improvement of insulin resistance and the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in db/db mice.

The genus Actinidia Lindl. (Actinidiaceae): A comprehensive review on its ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Actinidia Lindl. belongs to the family Actinidiaceae. Plants of this genus are popularly known as kiwifruits and are traditionally used to treat a wide range of ailments associated with digestive disorders, rheumatism, kidney problems, cardiovascular system, cancers, dyspepsia, hemorrhoids, and diabetes among others.

AIM

This review discusses the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical profile, and known pharmacological properties of Actinidia plants, to understand their connotations and provide the scientific basis for future studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data were obtained by surveying journal articles, books, and dissertations using various search engines such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer Link, and Web of Science. The online databases; World Flora Online, Plants of the World Online, International Plant Names Index, and Global Biodiversity Information Facility were used to confirm the distribution and validate scientific names of Actinidia plants. The isolated metabolites from these species were illustrated using ChemBio Draw ultra-version 14.0 software.

RESULTS

Ten (10) species of Actinidia genus have been reported as significant sources of traditional medicines utilized to remedy diverse illnesses. Our findings revealed that a total of 873 secondary metabolites belonging to different classes such as terpenoids, phenolic compounds, alcohols, ketones, organic acids, esters, hydrocarbons, and steroids have been isolated from different species of Actinidia. These compounds were mainly related to the exhibited antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiproliferative, anti-angiogenic, anticinoceptive, anti-tumor, and anticancer activities.

CONCLUSION

This study assessed the information related to the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical compounds, and pharmacological properties of Actinidia species, which indicate that they possess diverse bioactive metabolites with interesting bioactivities. Actinidia plants have great potential for applications in folklore medicines and pharmaceuticals due to their wide ethnomedicinal uses and biological activities. Traditional uses of several Actinidia species are supported by scientific evidences, qualifying them as possible modern remedies for various ailments. Nonetheless, the currently available data has several gaps in understanding the herbal utilization of most Actinidia species. Thus, further research into their toxicity, mechanisms of actions of the isolated bioactive metabolites, as well as scientific connotations between the traditional medicinal uses and pharmacological properties is required to unravel their efficacy in therapeutic potential for safe clinical application.

Combined Widely Targeted Metabolomic, Transcriptomic, and Spatial Metabolomic Analysis Reveals the Potential Mechanism of Coloration and Fruit Quality Formation in Actinidia chinensis cv. Hongyang

Postharvest kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis cv. Hongyang) pulp is mainly composed of outer yellow-flesh (LR) and inner red-flesh (HR). However, information about the differences in coloration and fruit quality between these two parts are limited. In this study, widely targeted metabolomic, transcriptomic, and spatial metabolomic analyses were used to reveal the potential mechanism of coloration and fruit quality formation. The results show that a total of 1001 metabolites were identified in Hongyang kiwifruit, and the accumulation of 211 metabolites were significantly higher in the HR than LR, including 69 flavonoids, 53 phenolic acids, and 38 terpenoids. There were no significant differences in the content of citric acid, quinic acid, glucose, fructose, or sucrose between the LR and HR. These results were consistent with the results from the RNA-seq profile and spatial metabolomic analysis. In addition, a total of 23 key candidate genes related to flesh color and fruit quality formation were identified and validated by qRT-PCR analysis. This study provides a theoretical basis for elucidating the underlying mechanism of the formation of kiwifruit flesh color and fruit quality.

Actinidia arguta (Sieb. et Zucc.) Planch. ex Miq.: A Review of Phytochemistry and Pharmacology

Actinidia arguta (Siebold & Zucc.) Planch ex Miq. (A. arguta) is a highly valued vine plant belonging to the Actinidia lindl genus. It is extensively utilized for its edible and medicinal properties. The various parts of A. arguta serve diverse purposes. The fruit is rich in vitamins, amino acids, and vitamin C, making it a nutritious and flavorful raw material for producing jam, canned food, and wine. The flowers yield volatile oils suitable for essential oil extraction. The leaves contain phenolic compounds and can be used for tea production. Additionally, the roots, stems, and leaves of A. arguta possess significant medicinal value, as they contain a wide array of active ingredients that exert multiple pharmacological and therapeutic effects. These effects include quenching thirst, relieving heat, stopping bleeding, promoting blood circulation, reducing swelling, dispelling wind, and alleviating dampness. Comprehensive information on A. arguta was collected from scientific databases covering the period from 1970 to 2023. The databases used for this review included Web of Science, PubMed, ProQuest, and CNKI. The objective of this review was to provide a detailed explanation of A. arguta from multiple perspectives, such as phytochemistry and pharmacological effects. By doing so, it aimed to establish a solid foundation and propose new research ideas for further exploration of the plant's potential applications and industrial development. To date, a total of 539 compounds have been isolated and identified from A. arguta. These compounds include terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolics, phenylpropanoids, lignin, organic acids, volatile components, alkanes, coumarins, anthraquinones, alkaloids, polysaccharides, and inorganic elements. Flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, and polysaccharides are the key bioactive constituents of A. arguta. Moreover, phenolics and flavonoids in A. arguta exhibit remarkable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. Additionally, they show promising potential in improving glucose metabolism, combating aging, reducing fatigue, and regulating the immune system. While some fundamental studies on A. arguta have been conducted, further research is necessary to enhance our understanding of its mechanism of action, quality evaluation, and compatibility mechanisms. A more comprehensive investigation is highly warranted to explore the mechanism of action and expand the range of drug resources associated with A. arguta. This will contribute to the current hot topics of anti-aging and anti-tumor drug research and development, thereby promoting its further development and utilization.

Characterization of Key Compounds of Organic Acids and Aroma Volatiles in Fruits of Different Actinidia argute Resources Based on High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Headspace Gas Chromatography-Ion Mobility Spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS)

Actinidia arguta, known for its distinctive flavor and high nutritional value, has seen an increase in cultivation and variety identification. However, the characterization of its volatile aroma compounds remains limited. This study aimed to understand the flavor quality and key volatile aroma compounds of different A. arguta fruits. We examined 35 A. arguta resource fruits for soluble sugars, titratable acids, and sugar-acid ratios. Their organic acids and volatile aroma compounds were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and headspace gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS). The study found that among the 35 samples tested, S12 had a higher sugar-acid ratio due to its higher sugar content despite having a high titratable acid content, making its fruit flavor superior to other sources. The A. arguta resource fruits can be classified into two types: those dominated by citric acid and those dominated by quinic acid. The analysis identified a total of 76 volatile aroma substances in 35 A. arguta resource fruits. These included 18 esters, 14 alcohols, 16 ketones, 12 aldehydes, seven terpenes, three pyrazines, two furans, two acids, and two other compounds. Aldehydes had the highest relative content of total volatile compounds. Using the orthogonal partial least squares discriminant method (OPLS-DA) analysis, with the 76 volatile aroma substances as dependent variables and different soft date kiwifruit resources as independent variables, 33 volatile aroma substances with variable importance in projection (VIP) greater than 1 were identified as the main aroma substances of A. arguta resource fruits. The volatile aroma compounds with VIP values greater than 1 were analyzed for odor activity value (OAV). The OAV values of isoamyl acetate, 3-methyl-1-butanol, 1-hexanol, and butanal were significantly higher than those of the other compounds. This suggests that these four volatile compounds contribute more to the overall aroma of A. arguta. This study is significant for understanding the differences between the fruit aromas of different A. arguta resources and for scientifically recognizing the characteristic compounds of the fruit aromas of different A. arguta resources.

Gut Microbiota Combined with Serum Metabolomics to Investigate the Hypoglycemic Effect of Actinidia arguta Leaves

Actinidia arguta leaves (AAL) are an excellent source of bioactive components for the food industry and possess many functional properties. However, the hypoglycemic effect and mechanism of AAL remain unclear. The aim of this work was to investigate the potential hypoglycemic effect of AAL and explore its possible mechanism using 16S rRNA sequencing and serum metabolomics in diabetic mice induced by high-fat feeding in combination with streptozotocin injection. A total of 25 flavonoids from AAL were isolated and characterized, and the contents of the extract from the AAL ranged from 0.14 mg/g DW to 8.97 mg/g DW. The compound quercetin (2) had the highest content of 8.97 ± 0.09 mg/g DW, and the compound kaempferol-3-O-(2'-O-D-glucopyl)-β-D-rutinoside (12) had the lowest content of 0.14 ± 0.01 mg/g DW. In vivo experimental studies showed that AAL reduced blood glucose and cholesterol levels, improved insulin sensitivity, and ameliorated oxidative stress and liver and kidney pathological damage. In addition, gut microbiota analysis found that AAL significantly reduced the F/B ratio, enriched the beneficial bacteria Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium, and inhibited the harmful bacteria Lactobacillus and Desulfovibrio, thereby playing an active role in intestinal imbalance. In addition, metabolomics analysis showed that AAL could improve amino acid metabolism and arachidonic acid metabolism, thereby exerting a hypoglycemic effect. This study confirmed that AAL can alleviate type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by regulating intestinal flora and interfering with related metabolic pathways, providing a scientific basis for its use as a dietary supplement and for further exploration of the mechanism of AAL against T2DM.

Development and Characterization of Microparticles with Actinidia arguta Leaves Extract by Spray-Drying: A New Mind-Set Regarding Healthy Compounds for Oral Mucositis

Actinidia arguta leaves have gained notoriety over the past years due to their rich bioactive composition with human pro-healthy effects, particularly in relation to antioxidants. Nevertheless, antioxidants are well known for their chemical instability, making it necessary to develop suitable delivery systems, such as microparticles, to provide protection and ensure a controlled release. The aim of this work was to produce polymeric particles of A. arguta leaves extract by spray-drying that may improve the oral mucositis condition. Microparticles were characterized by size, shape, antioxidant/antiradical activities, swelling capacity, moisture content, and effect on oral cells (TR146 and HSC-3) viability, with the aim to assess their potential application in this oral condition. The results attested the microparticles' spherical morphology and production yields of 41.43% and 36.40%, respectively, for empty and A. arguta leaves extract microparticles. The A. arguta leaves extract microparticles obtained the highest phenolic content (19.29 mg GAE/g) and antioxidant/antiradical activities (FRAP = 81.72 µmol FSE/g; DPPH = 4.90 mg TE/g), being perceived as an increase in moisture content and swelling capacity. No differences were observed between empty and loaded microparticles through FTIR analysis. Furthermore, the exposure to HSC-3 and TR146 did not lead to a viability decrease, attesting their safety for oral administration. Overall, these results highlight the significant potential of A. arguta leaves extract microparticles for applications in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.

Comparative Analysis of Chemical Composition of Zanthoxylum myriacanthum Branches and Leaves by GC-MS and UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, and Evaluation of Their Antioxidant Activities

Zanthoxylum myriacanthum Wall. ex Hook. f., a plant belonging to the Rutaceae family and the Zanthoxylum genus, is extensively utilized for its medicinal properties and as a culinary seasoning in China and Southeast Asian countries. However, the chemical composition and biological activities of Z. myriacanthum branches and leaves remain insufficiently explored. In this study, the volatile and non-volatile components of Z. myriacanthum branches and leaves were analyzed using GC-MS and UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS techniques. A total of 78 volatile compounds and 66 non-volatile compounds were identified. The volatile compounds were predominantly terpenoids and aliphatic compounds, while the non-volatile compounds were primarily flavonoids and alkaloids. The branches contained 52 volatile compounds and 33 non-volatile compounds, whereas the leaves contained 48 volatile compounds and 40 non-volatile compounds. The antioxidant activities of the methanol extracts from Z. myriacanthum branches and leaves were evaluated using ABTS and DPPH free-radical-scavenging assays, both of which demonstrated certain antioxidant activity. The methanol extract of leaves demonstrated significantly higher antioxidant activity compared to that of the branches, possibly due to the higher presence of flavonoids and phenols in the leaves, with IC50 values of 7.12 ± 0.257 μg/mL and 1.22 × 102 ± 5.01 μg/mL for ABTS and DPPH, respectively. These findings enhance our understanding of the chemical composition and antioxidant potential of Z. myriacanthum. The plant holds promise as a natural source of antioxidants for applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and functional foods. Further research can explore its broader biological activities and potential applications.

Valorization of Fruit Waste for Bioactive Compounds and Their Applications in the Food Industry

The fruit production and processing sectors produce tremendous amounts of by-products and waste that cause significant economic losses and an undesirable impact on the environment. The effective utilization of these fruit wastes can help to reduce the carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions, thereby achieving sustainable development goals. These by-products contain a variety of bioactive compounds, such as dietary fiber, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, antioxidants, polysaccharides, and several other health-promoting nutrients and phytochemicals. These bioactive compounds can be extracted and used as value-added products in different industrial applications. The bioactive components extracted can be used in developing nutraceutical products, functional foods, or food additives. This review provides a comprehensive review of the recent developments in fruit waste valorization techniques and their application in food industries. The various extraction techniques, including conventional and emerging methods, have been discussed. The antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the active compounds extracted and isolated from fruit waste have been described. The most important food industrial application of bioactive compounds extracted from fruit waste (FW) has been provided. Finally, challenges, future direction, and concluding remarks on the topic are summarized.

Comparative Analysis of the Content of Sum of Hydroxycinnamic Acids from Leaves of Actinidia arguta Lindl. Collected in Ukraine and China

Leaves of Actinidia arguta Lindl. (A. arguta) are a promising raw material for pharmaceutical production. Actinidia is cultivated in Ukraine, and its homeland is China, so raw materials may have different origins. Hydroxycinnamic acids (HCAs) are one of the important biologically active substances of A. arguta leaves, which provide the pharmacological action of this raw material. The aim of the study was to identify and compare the quantitative content of HCAs in the leaves of A. arguta harvested in Ukraine and China in different phases of the growing season. Microscopic and phytochemical studies of the leaves of A. arguta are conducted. After histochemical reaction with the nitrite-molybdenum reagent, idioblast cells with НСАs in A. arguta leaves are stained on brick-red color. The amount of the sum of HCAs was determined by absorption UV-spectrophotometry in terms of rosmarinic acid at wavelength 505 nm after reaction with a nitrite-molybdenum reagent. It was found that the A. arguta leaves contain high levels of HCAs (to 2.69%). The highest HCAs level was recorded in July, which was decreased somewhat in August. Histochemical reactions for the detection of HCAs in fresh A. arguta leaves can be used to identify plants of the genus Actinidia Lindl., which are potential sources of HCAs. The content of HCAs is independent of the region of plant growth, but its quantity varies during the growing season. So, during July, the leaves can be collected from male plants, and during the end of August and start of September, leaves can be collected from both male and female plants. This indicates the prospect of using the leaves of A. arguta as a source of raw materials for pharmacy and medicine.

Nontargeted metabolomic analysis of four different parts of Actinidia arguta by UPLC-Q-TOF-MSE

Actinidia arguta, an edible berry plant with high nutritional values, has been widely used in Asian countries as a food and traditional medicinal herb. The well-recognized health-promoting properties of A. arguta were associated with its bioactive components in its different botanical parts. To rapidly screen and identify chemical components and simultaneously determine the potential metabolites from different parts of A. arguta, UPLC-Q-TOF-MS^E coupled with UNIFI platform and multivariate statistical analysis approach was established in this study. As a result, a total of 107 components were identified from the four different parts of A. arguta, in which 31 characteristic chemical markers were discovered among them, including 12, 8, 6, and 5 compounds from the fruits, leaves, roots, and stems, respectively. These results suggested that the combination of UPLC-Q-TOF-MS^E and metabolomic analysis is a powerful method to rapidly screen characteristic markers for the quality control of A. arguta.

Insights into the 3D In Vitro Permeability and In Vivo Antioxidant Protective Effects of Kiwiberry Leaf Extract: A Step Forward to Human Nutraceutical Use

Actinidia arguta (Siebold & Zucc.) Planch. ex Miq. (kiwiberry) leaves are a source of phenolic compounds with pro-health biological effects, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Despite the huge number of studies reporting the composition of A. arguta leaves, no in vitro or in vivo studies explore its potential use as nutraceutical ingredient based on these activities. Therefore, this study aims to characterize the safety profile of kiwiberry leaf extracts using in vitro and in vivo approaches through the assessment of intestinal cell viability (Caco-2 and HT29-MTX), 3D intestinal permeation, and, most important, the redox markers, biochemical profile and liver and kidney function effects after the animal assays. Briefly, wistar rats were orally treated for 7 days with kiwiberry leaf extracts (50 and 75 mg/kg bw), water (negative control), or vitamin C (positive control). The cell viability was above 90% at 1000 μg/mL for both cells. Coumaroyl quinic acid and rutin achieved a permeation higher than 25% in the 3D intestinal model. The animal studies confirmed the extracts' ability to increase superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase content in animals' livers and kidneys while simultaneously decreasing the triglycerides content. This study highlighted the antioxidant capacity of kiwiberry leaf extracts, ensuring their efficacy and safety as a nutraceutical ingredient.

Assisted Extraction with Cyclodextrins as a Way of Improving the Antidiabetic Activity of Actinidia Leaves

Five varieties of Actinidia leaves (Geneva, Jumbo, Ken's Red, Kijivska Hibridna, and Sentyabraskaya) were analyzed. The profiles of active compounds were determined, namely quercetin, rutin, epicatechin, chlorogenic acid, and kaempferol, in the raw material. Suspecting that the raw material might prove important in the treatment of diabetes, the authors assessed the antioxidant activity and the ability to inhibit enzymes responsible for the development of diabetes (α-glucosidase and α-amylase). As a result of the conducted analysis, the Ken's Red variety was indicated as having the highest biological activity (DPPH IC₅₀ = 0.332 ± 0.048; FRAP IC_0.5 = 0.064 ± 0.005; α-glucosidase inhibition IC₅₀ = 0.098 ± 0.007; α-amylase inhibition IC₅₀ = 0.083 ± 0.004). In order to increase the efficiency of the extraction of active compounds from Ken's Red variety leaves, cyclodextrins (α-CD, β-CD, and γ-CD) were used as extraction process enhancers. The obtained results showed a significant increase in the contents of extracted active compounds. In addition, the type of CD used enhanced the extraction of selected compounds (quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, chlorogenic acid, and epicatechin. This study shows that the application of cyclodextrin-based extraction significantly improved the leaf activity of the Ken's Red variety (DPPH IC₅₀ = 0.160 ± 0.019; FRAP IC_0.5 = 0.008 ± 0.001; α-glucosidase inhibition IC₅₀ = 0.040 ± 0.002; α-amylase inhibition IC₅₀ = 0.012 ± 0.003).

Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analysis of Flavonoid Biosynthesis in Two Main Cultivars of Actinidia arguta Sieb.Zucc. Grown in Northern China

Actinidia arguta Sieb.Zucc. is a fruit that is rich in flavonoids. Nevertheless, details of flavonoid formation and the potential mechanism behind flavonoid biosynthesis have not previously been reported. In order to explore the biosynthetic regulation mechanism of flavonoids in A. arguta Sieb.Zucc., we conducted a combination of extensive targeted metabolite analysis and analyzed transcriptomes to determine the flavonoids present and the genes bound up with flavonoid biosynthesis in the two main cultivated varieties of A. arguta Sieb.Zucc. in Northern China. The maturity period is from August to September. A total of 118 flavonoids were found in fruits. Among them, 39 flavonoids were accumulated at significant levels after fruit ripening. Transcriptome analysis indicated that most flavonoid biosynthesis structural genes and certain regulatory genes exhibited differential expression between the two varieties. Correlation analysis of transcriptome and metabolite profiles showed that the ways of expression of 21 differentially expressed genes related to structure and regulation between the 2 varieties were more highly correlated with 7 flavonoids after fruit ripening. These results contribute to the development of A. arguta Sieb.Zucc. as a food and drug homologous functional food.

Valorization of Kiwiberry Leaves Recovered by Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction for Skin Application: A Response Surface Methodology Approach

This study aims to evaluate the optimal ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) conditions of antioxidants polyphenols from Actinidia arguta (Siebold & Zucc.) Planch. Ex Miq. (kiwiberry) leaves using a response surface methodology (RSM). The effects of solid:liquid ratio (2.5–10.0% w/v), time (20–60 min), and intensity (30–70 W/m²) on the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant/antiradical activities were investigated. The optimal UAE conditions were achieved using a solid:liquid ratio of 10% (w/v) and an ultrasonic intensity of 30 W/m² for 31.11 min. The results demonstrated that the optimal extract showed a high TPC (97.50 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dw) and antioxidant/antiradical activity (IC₅₀ = 249.46 µg/mL for ABTS assay; IC₅₀ = 547.34 µg/mL for DPPH assay; 1440.13 µmol of ferrous sulfate equivalents (FSE)/g dw for ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)) as well as a good capacity to scavenge superoxide and hypochlorous acid (respectively, IC₅₀ = 220.13 μg/mL and IC₅₀ =10.26 μg/mL), which may be related with the 28 phenolic compounds quantified. The in vitro cell assay demonstrated that the optimal extract did not decrease the keratinocytes’ (HaCaT) viability, while the fibroblasts’ (HFF-1) viability was greater than 70.63% (1000 µg/mL). This study emphasizes the great potential of kiwiberry leaves extracted by UAE for skin application.

Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction, Identification, and Quantification of Antioxidants from 'Jinfeng' Kiwifruit

Kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) is a nutrient-dense fruit abundant in vitamin C and phenolic compounds, and it exhibits strong antioxidant capacity. However, the antioxidants in 'Jinfeng' kiwifruit have seldom been extracted and analyzed, and the conditions for the extraction of kiwifruit antioxidants by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) have seldom been investigated. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize UAE conditions to extract antioxidants from 'Jinfeng' kiwifruit. In addition, the antioxidant capacity, contents of total phenolics and total flavonoids, ascorbic acid, and the profiles of antioxidants were also analyzed. The results showed that the optimal UAE conditions included 68% ethanol, liquid/solid ratio at 20 mL/g, extraction time at 30 min, extraction temperature at 42 °C, and ultrasonic power at 420 W. Under these conditions, the ABTS value of kiwifruit was 70.38 ± 1.38 μM TE/g DW, which was 18.5% higher than that of the extract obtained by conventional solvent extraction. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were 15.50 ± 0.08 mg GAE/g DW and 5.10 ± 0.09 mg CE/g DW, respectively. Moreover, 20 compounds were tentatively identified by UPLC-MS/MS, and the content of main compounds, such as procyanidin B2, neochlorogenic acid, and epicatechin, were determined by HPLC-DAD. This research revealed the profiles of antioxidant phytochemicals in 'Jinfeng' kiwifruit, which can be a good dietary source of natural antioxidants with potential health functions.

Valorization of kiwi agricultural waste and industry by-products by recovering bioactive compounds and applications as food additives: A circular economy model

Currently, agricultural production generates large amounts of organic waste, both from the maintenance of farms and crops (agricultural wastes) and from the industrialization of the product (food industry waste). In the case of Actinidia cultivation, agricultural waste groups together leaves, flowers, stems and roots while food industry by-products are represented by discarded fruits, skin and seeds. All these matrices are now underexploited and so, they can be revalued as a natural source of ingredients to be applied in food, cosmetic or pharmaceutical industries. Kiwifruit composition (phenolic compounds, volatile compounds, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, etc.) is an outstanding basis, especially for its high content in vitamin C and phenolic compounds. These compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial activities, among other beneficial properties for health, but stand out for their digestive enhancement and prebiotic role. Although the biological properties of kiwi fruit have been analyzed, few studies show the high content of compounds with biological functions present in these by-products. Therefore, agricultural and food industry wastes derived from processing kiwi are regarded as useful matrices for the development of innovative applications in the food (pectins, softeners, milk coagulants, and colorants), cosmetic (ecological pigments) and pharmaceutical industry (fortified, functional, nutraceutical, or prebiotic foods). This strategy will provide economic and environmental benefits, turning this industry into a sustainable and environmentally friendly production system, promoting a circular and sustainable economy.

Berries and Leaves of Actinidia kolomikta (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim.: A Source of Phenolic Compounds

Berries of Actinidia kolomikta (A. kolomikta) are known for high ascorbic acid content, but the diversity of phenolic compounds has been little studied. The present research aimed to investigate phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in berries and leaves of twelve A. kolomikta cultivars. The UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS technique was used to determine differences among cultivars in the quantitative composition of individual phenolic compounds. Antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH• free radical scavenging and CUPRAC methods. In the present study, 13 phenolic compounds were detected in berries, whereas leaves contained 17 phenolic compounds. Flavonols were the primary class found in both berries and leaves; other identified phenolic compounds were flavan-3-ols, flavones and, phenolic acids; and dihydrochalcone phloridzin was identified in the leaves. The amount and variety of phenolic compounds in berries and leaves and antioxidant activity were found to be cultivar-dependent. The highest total content of phenolic compounds was found in the leaves of the cultivar ‘Aromatnaja’ and in the berries of the cultivar ‘VIR-2’. Results of this study have confirmed that berries and leaves of A. kolomikta could be a valuable raw material for both food and pharmaceutical industries.

Aromatic Constituents from the Leaves of Actinidia arguta with Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity

As the leaf of Actinidia arguta has shown antioxidant activity, a study was conducted to identify the active ingredients. Forty-eight compounds were isolated from the leaves of A. arguta through various chromatographic techniques. Further characterization of the structures on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR and MS data identified several aromatic compounds, including phenylpropanoid derivatives, phenolics, coumarins, flavonoids and lignans. Among them, five compounds were newly reported, naturally occurring, and named argutosides A-D (1-4), which consist of phenylpropanoid glycosides that are conjugated with a phenolic moiety, and argutoside E (5), which is a coumarin glycoside that is conjugated with a phenylpropanoid unit. The isolated compounds showed good antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with differences in activity depending on the structures. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated the interaction between the hydroxyl and carbonyl groups of compounds 1 and 5 with α-glucosidase. Taken together, the leaves of A. arguta are rich in aromatic compounds with diverse structures. Therefore, the leaves of A. arguta and their aromatic components might be beneficial for oxidative stress and glucose-related diseases.

Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of a New Olive Pomace Functional Ingredient

Olive pomace, an olive oil processing byproduct, can be upcycled and meet the current demand for natural and sustainable food ingredients. In this work, a patented process was used to obtain a functional ingredient from different olive pomaces. The nutritional, chemical and antioxidant profiles, as well as the antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans, were investigated for the first time. The amount of phenolics ranged between 3.1 and 3.8 g gallic acid eq./100 g in all samples and flavonoids between 2.0 and 3.2 g catechin eq/100 g. No significant differences were found regarding the antioxidant activity. The total fat varied between 5 and 11%, α-tocopherol being the major vitamer and oleic acid the main fatty acid. The protein and ash contents were 1–4% and 10–17%, respectively. The functional ingredient with a higher hydroxytyrosol content (220 mg/100 g) also presented the best minimal inhibitory concentration against the tested bacteria. No activity against C. albicans was verified. This new functional ingredient presents the potential to be used as a natural preservative or as a nutritional profile enhancer. Moreover, it can be an advantageous ingredient in food products, since it comprises specific lipid and hydrophilic bioactive compounds usually not present in other plant extracts.

Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Optimization of Proanthocyanidins from Kiwi (Actinidia chinensis) Leaves and Evaluation of Its Antioxidant Activity

Using ultrasound (US) in proanthocyanidin (PA) extraction has become one of the important emerging technologies. It could be the next generation for studying the US mechnophore impact on the bioactive compound's functionality. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the potential of US treatment on PAs extracted from kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) leaves, and to provide a comprehensive chemical composition and bioactivity relationship of the purified kiwifruit leaves PAs (PKLPs). Several methods like single-factor experiments and response surface methodology (RSM) for the four affected factors on US extraction efficiency were constructed. HPLC-QTOF-MS/MS, cytotoxicity analysis, and antioxidant activity were also demonstrated. In the results, the modeling of PA affected factors showed that 40% US-amplitude, 30 mL/g dry weight (DW) solvent to solid ration (S/S), and 70 °C for 15 min were the optimum conditions for the extraction of PAs. Furthermore, PKLPs exhibited significant radical scavenging and cellular antioxidant activity (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study's novelty comes from the broad prospects of using US in PKLP green extraction that could play an important role in maximizing this phytochemical functionality in drug discovery and food science fields.

Bioactivities of Phenolic Compounds from Kiwifruit and Persimmon

Fruit used in the common human diet in general, and kiwifruit and persimmon particularly, displays health properties in the prevention of heart disease. This study describes a combination of bioactivity, multivariate data analyses and fluorescence measurements for the differentiating of kiwifruit and persimmon, their quenching and antioxidant properties. The metabolic differences are shown, as well in the results of bioactivities and antioxidant capacities determined by ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC and DPPH assays. To complement the bioactivity of these fruits, the quenching properties between extracted polyphenols and human serum proteins were determined by 3D-fluorescence spectroscopy studies. These properties of the extracted polyphenols in interaction with the main serum proteins in the human metabolism (human serum albumin (HSA), α-β-globulin (α-β G) and fibrinogen (Fgn)), showed that kiwifruit was more reactive than persimmon. There was a direct correlation between the quenching properties of the polyphenols of the investigated fruits with serum human proteins, their relative quantification and bioactivity. The results of metabolites and fluorescence quenching show that these fruits possess multiple properties that have a great potential to be used in industry with emphasis on the formulation of functional foods and in the pharmaceutical industry. Based on the quenching properties of human serum proteins with polyphenols and recent reports in vivo on human studies, we hypothesize that HSA, α-β G and Fgn will be predictors of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Bioactive extracts from brewer's spent grain

In this study, antioxidant-rich extracts from brewer's spent grain (BSG) extracted by solid-to-liquid extraction using different solvents water and ethanol and their mixtures at two ratios (80% ethanol : water (v/v) and 60% ethanol : water (v/v)) were characterized. Nutritional composition was evaluated for the extracts and for the solid residues obtained after extraction. Additionally, the extracts were analyzed for the total phenolic content and individual phenolic compounds and related biological properties including antioxidant capacity (ABTS; ORAC and DNA protection), antihypertensive capacity, antibacterial activity and antibiofilm capacity. Safety was also demonstrated through genotoxicity and cytotoxicity tests. The results obtained showed that while all the extracts exhibited high antioxidant capacity (except ethanolic extract), the highest values were obtained for the 60% ethanol : water extract. The identification of phenolic compounds using HPLC showed that catechin and vanillin were the main compounds identified with the highest concentration being obtained for 60% ethanol : water extraction. In the biological activity assays, water and hydroethanolic extracts were multifunctional (antioxidant and antihypertensive capacity, antibacterial and antibiofilm activity), and the 80% ethanol : water presented better results in some assays. All were non-genotoxic, but the cytotoxicity was dependent on the extract concentration, with complete safe application for all up to 1 mg mL-1. Therefore, this study shows the potential of a viable green solvent based and low cost extraction recovery method of bioactive compounds from brewer's spent grain.

Actinidia arguta Leaf as a Donor of Potentially Healthful Bioactive Compounds: Implications of Cultivar, Time of Sampling and Soil N Level

The aim of this study was to assess the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant status of kiwiberry (Actinidia arguta) leaf under different N regimes tested three times in field conditions during the 2015 growing season in two cultivars (‘Weiki’ and ‘Geneva’). Leaf total antioxidant capacity using ABTS, DPPH and FRAP tests was evaluated in the years 2015 to 2017, which experienced different weather conditions. Both cultivars exhibited a significant fall in leaf L-ascorbic acid (L-AA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as global content of these compounds during the growing season, while total phenolic contents slightly (‘Weiki’) or significantly (‘Geneva’) increased. There was a large fluctuation in antioxidative enzyme activity during the season. The correlation between individual antioxidants and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) depended on the plant development phase. The study revealed two peaks of an increase in TEAC at the start and end of the growing season. Leaf L-AA, global phenolics, APX, CAT and TEAC depended on the N level, but thiol compounds were not affected. Over the three years, TEAC decreased as soil N fertility increased, and the strength of the N effect was year dependent. The relationship between leaf N content and ABTS and FRAP tests was highly negative. The antioxidant properties of kiwiberry leaves were found to be closely related to the plant development phase and affected by soil N fertility.

An Insight into Kiwiberry Leaf Valorization: Phenolic Composition, Bioactivity and Health Benefits

During kiwiberry production, different by-products are generated, including leaves that are removed to increase the fruit’s solar exposure. The aim of this work was to extract bioactive compounds from kiwiberry leaf by employing microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). Compatible food solvents (water and ethanol) were employed. The alcoholic extract contained the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents (629.48 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per gram of plant material on dry weight (dw) (GAE/g dw) and 136.81 mg of catechin equivalents per gram of plant material on dw (CAE/g dw), respectively). Oppositely, the hydroalcoholic extract achieved the highest antioxidant activity and scavenging activity against reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (IC₅₀ = 29.10 μg/mL for O₂^•−, IC₅₀ = 1.87 μg/mL for HOCl and IC₅₀ = 1.18 μg/mL for ^•NO). The phenolic profile showed the presence of caffeoylquinic acids, proanthocyanidin, and quercetin in all samples. However, caffeoylquinic acids and quercetin were detected in higher amounts in the alcoholic extract, while proanthocyanidins were prevalent in the hydroalcoholic extract. No adverse effects were observed on Caco-2 viability, while the highest concentration (1000 µg/mL) of hydroalcoholic and alcoholic extracts conducted to a decrease of HT29-MTX viability. These results highlight the MAE potentialities to extract bioactive compounds from kiwiberry leaf.

Physico-Chemical and Sensory Profiles of Enriched Linz Biscuits

The aim of the present study was to determine the physico-chemical properties (dry matter content, combustion heat, electrical properties, total protein, ash, fat and crude fibre contents, selected amino acids, and trace elements), antioxidant content, and sensory profile of Linz biscuits. They were enriched by the addition of powdered carrot, nettle leaves and elderberry fruit, which is 3% of the product. For comparison of results, a control variant without the addition of these components was also prepared. The enriched biscuits showed slightly higher total ash and crude fibre contents in comparison to the control samples. Results for the antioxidant activity and total polyphenol, flavonoid, and phenolic acid contents of the enriched biscuits were higher in all observed parameters than in the control sample with the best results obtained for Linz biscuits enriched with elderberry and nettle powder. In enriched biscuits, higher contents of iron, zinc, and manganese were measured, especially in biscuits with nettle. Linz biscuits with nettle had higher combustion heat values than control samples; the other two sample types had lower values. We found that the resistance, capacitance, and relative permittivity of the enriched biscuits decreased with frequency according to the power regression function. On the contrary, the conductivity increased with an increasing frequency. Electrical properties were mainly influenced by the water content but also by added components.

Prediction of Potential Geographical Distribution Patterns of Actinidia arguta under Different Climate Scenarios

Actinidia arguta (Siebold and Zucc.) Planch.ex Miq, called “hardy kiwifruit”, “baby kiwi” or “kiwi berry”, has a unique taste, is rich in nutrients and has high economic value and broad market prospects. Active research on the potential geographic distribution of A. arguta in China aims to provide a reference basis for its resource investigation, conservation, development and utilization and introduction of cultivation. In this study, the Maxent model was used to combine climatic factors, soil factors and geographical factors (elevation, slope and aspect) to predict the current and future (2041–2060 and 2081–2100) potential distribution of A. arguta and to analyze the impact of climate change on it. The results showed that the suitable distribution range of A. arguta in China was 23–43 N and 100–125 E, with a total area of about 3.4451 × 106 km2. The highly suitable area of A. arguta was mainly concentrated in the middle and low mountain areas of the south of Shaanxi, the east of Sichuan, the middle and west of Guizhou and the west of Yunnan, presenting a circular distribution. The Jackknife test was used to calculate the main environmental factors affecting the distribution of A. arguta. The first four main factors were annual mean temperature (bio_1), precipitation of the warmest quarter (bio_18), elevation (ELE) and mean temperature of the warmest quarter (bio_10), which provided a contribution up to 81.7%. Under the scenarios of three representative concentrations (SSP1_2.6, SSP2_4.5 and SSP5_8.5) in the future, the area of low and moderate suitable habitat decreased, while the area of highly suitable habitat increased. The migration direction of the centroid in the highly suitable habitat moved to the southwest in the future scenario period.

Actinidia arguta Pulp: Phytochemical Composition, Radical Scavenging Activity, and in Vitro Cells Effects

Hardy kiwifruit (Actinidia arguta) is a highly appreciated exotic fruit endowed with outstanding bioactive compounds. The present work proposes to characterize the pulp from A. arguta organic fruits, emphasizing its radicals scavenging capacity and effects on intestinal cells (Caco-2 and HT29-MTX). The physicochemical properties and phenolic profile were also screened. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC, respectively) of pulp were 12.21 mg GAE/g on dry weight (DW) and 5.92 mg CE/g DW, respectively. A high antioxidant activity was observed (FRAP: 151.41 μmol FSE/g DW; DPPH: 12.17 mg TE/g DW). Furthermore, the pulp did not induce a toxic effect on Caco-2 and HT29-MTX cells viability up to 1000 μg/mL. Regarding in vitro scavenging capacity, the pulp revealed the highest scavenging power against NO^. (IC₅₀ =3.45 μg/mL) and HOCl (IC₅₀ =12.77 μg/mL). These results emphasize the richness of A. arguta fruit pulp to be used in different food products.

Kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.): A review of chemical diversity and biological activities

Kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.) is a commercially important fruit crop. Various species and cultivars, non-fruit plant parts, and agricultural and processing wastes are underutilized. A broad-scoped review of kiwifruit guides further innovative applications. Different kiwifruit varieties and edible and nonedible parts varied in the composition of dietary nutrients including polyphenols, vitamins, dietary fiber, and functional ingredients, such as starch and protease and bioactive phytochemicals. Kiwifruits exhibit antioxidative, antiproliferative, antiinflammatory, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antihypercholesterolemic, neuroprotective, antiobese properties and promote gut health. Clinically significant effects of kiwifruit on prevention and/or treatment of major chronic diseases are not yet evident. Varieties and plant parts, extraction, analytical and processing methods affect the physicochemical and biological properties of kiwifruit-derived ingredients. Allergens, mycotoxins, pesticides and heavy metals are the chemical hazards of kiwifruits. Future research should be focused on sustainable uses of underutilized resources as functional ingredients, bioactive compound purification, composition-activity relationships, and physiological mechanisms and clinical significance of kiwifruits.

Optimizing the extraction of phenolic antioxidants from chestnut shells by subcritical water extraction using response surface methodology

The objective of this study was to evaluate the optimal Subcritical Water Extraction (SWE) conditions of antioxidants and polyphenols from chestnut shells using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). A central composite design (CCD) was conducted to analyse the time (6-30 min) and temperature (51-249 °C) effects in antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH and FRAP) and Total Phenolic Compounds (TPC). TPC ranged from 315.21 to 496.80 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g DW; the DPPH from 549.23 to 1125.68 mg Trolox equivalents (TE)/g DW; ABTS varied between 631.16 and 965.45 mg ascorbic acid equivalents (AAE)/g DW and FRAP from 2793.95 to 11393.97 mg ferrous sulphate equivalents (FSE)/g DW. The optimal extraction conditions were 30 min/220 °C, revealing excelling scavenging efficiencies against HOCl (IC₅₀ = 0.79 µg/mL) and O₂^- (IC₅₀ = 12.92 µg/mL) without toxicity on intestinal cells (0.1 µg/mL). The phenolic composition revealed high amounts of pyrogallol and protocatechuic acid. SWE can be a useful extraction technique for the recovery of polyphenolics from chestnut shells.

Evaluation of the Extraction Temperature Influence on Polyphenolic Profiles of Vine-Canes (Vitis vinifera) Subcritical Water Extracts

This work focused on evaluating the possibility of using vineyard pruning wastes from two Portuguese Vitis vinifera varieties; Touriga Nacional (TN) and Tinta Roriz (TR), as new potential ingredients for the nutraceutical industry. An environmentally friendly extraction technique; namely subcritical-water extraction (SWE), was employed. The overall results indicate that phenolic acids were the major class of compounds quantified; being gallic acid the principal one. The highest value for total phenolic content (TPC) was obtained for the TR extract at 250 °C (181 ± 12 mg GAE/g dw). In terms of antioxidant activity; the DPPH values for the extracts obtained at 250 °C were approximately 4-fold higher than the ones obtained at 125 °C; with TR extract presenting the highest value (203 ± 22 mg TE/g dw). Thus, the TR extract obtained through SWE at 250 °C was selected to evaluate the scavenging activity and the in vitro effects on cells due to the best results achieved in the previous assays. This extract presented the ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (O₂^●-, HOCl and ROO^●). No adverse effects were observed in HFF-1 viability after exposure to extract concentrations below 100 μg/mL. This work demonstrated that vine-canes extracts could be a potential ingredient to nutraceutical industry

Vine-Canes as a Source of Value-Added Compounds for Cosmetic Formulations

The majority of works about vine-canes are focused on the evaluation of their chemical composition and antioxidant potential. To the best of our knowledge, the possible applications of produced extracts in cosmetic formulations have never been explored. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant properties of vine-canes subcritical water extracts for use as active ingredients in the cosmetic industry. For that, the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of six vine-cane varieties, namely Alvarinho and Loureiro from the Minho region and Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz (TR) from both the Douro and Dão regions, were evaluated through spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods. All extracts presented similar antioxidant activity and the highest phenolic content was reported for TR variety from the Douro region (33.7 ± 1.9 mg GAE/g dw). The capacity of vine-cane extracts to capture reactive oxygen species superoxide (O₂^-) was also studied, with the highest IC₅₀ value being obtained for Loureiro variety (56.68 ± 2.60 µg/mL). Furthermore, no adverse effects on HaCaT and HFF-1 dermal cell lines in concentrations below 100 and 1000 µg/mL, respectively, were determined. Finally, Loureiro vine-cane extract was incorporated into a topical formulation, and physical and microbiological properties were within expected values, demonstrating that vine-canes extracts can be successfully incorporated in cosmetic products.

Bioactivity, phytochemical profile and pro-healthy properties of Actinidia arguta: A review

Hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta) is a climbing, perennial and dioecious vine from Actinidiaceae family, native from Asia and valued as ornamental and traditional medicine. In the last decade, the growing interest as fruit-bearing plant encourage the expanding cultivation of A. arguta mainly to fruits production, particularly in Europe and North America. A. arguta plants have an extensive range ofbioactive compoundsthat can be obtained from different botanical structures, such as fruits, leaves, flowers and stems. These bioactive molecules, with well-recognized health-promoting properties, include phenolic compounds, minerals, carbohydrates or even volatile substances, with a great potential to be used in several formulations of food products. Phytochemical studies on this plant reported hypoglycemic effects as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, among others. The traditional uses ofA. arguta have been experimentally proved byin vitroandin vivostudies, in which its bioactivities were associated to its phytochemical composition. This review aims to assess and summarize the phytochemical and healthy properties ofthe different botanical parts of A. arguta, describing their bioactive composition and exploring it potential functional properties on foodstuffs.

Phenylpropanoid-Conjugated Triterpenoids from the Leaves of Actinidia arguta and Their Inhibitory Activity on α-Glucosidase

Actinidia arguta, commonly called hardy kiwifruit or kiwiberry, has cold-resistant properties and can be cultivated in Asia, including Korea. Seven new triterpenoids (2-4 and 8-11) along with eight known triterpenoids were isolated from the leaves of A. arguta through various chromatographic techniques. The new triterpenoids were defined as actiniargupenes A-C (2-4), actinidic acid derivatives with phenylpropanoid constituent units, dehydroisoactinidic acid (8), and actiniargupenes D-F (9-11), asiatic acid derivatives with phenylpropanoid substituents, on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR and MS data. Among the triterpenoids, those with a phenylpropanoid constituent unit showed inhibitory activity on α-glucosidase, which suggested the importance of the phenylpropanoid moiety. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated the interaction between the 4'-OH group of the phenylpropanoid moiety and α-glucosidase.