Non-extractable polyphenols and in vitro bile acid-binding capacity of dried persimmon (Diospyros kaki) fruit

Hydrolyzed Polyphenols from Water Chestnut (Trapa japonica) Suppress Lipase Activity in vitro and Blood Triacylglycerols in Mice

Water chestnut (Trapa japonica) is a thorny aquatic floating plant that contains hydrolyzable polyphenols (WCPs) such as eugeniin, 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-d-glucopyranose (TGG), and trapain. Previous studies have revealed that WCPs have antioxidant properties and can suppress postprandial blood glucose elevation in mice and human participants. However, the functionality of WCPs in treating obesity and metabolic syndrome, which have become significant issues in recent years, remains unclear. Here, we aimed to determine the effects of WCPs on lipid metabolism. We initially investigated the effects of WCPs on pancreatic lipase in vitro. Among WCPs, eugeniin and trapain, which contain a hexahydroxybiphenyl group, particularly inhibited lipase activity. We also found that WCPs suppressed fat accumulation in mouse adipose progenitor 3T3-L1 cells. We compared the effects of WCPs on lipid metabolism among groups of mice (n=7 each) fed for four weeks without (standard control and high-fat (HF) diet controls) or with HFWP 0.5 or HFWP 1 supplemented with 0.5 and 1% WCPs, respectively. Subsequently, we examined lipid-related parameters in adipose tissue, liver, and blood. We found significantly lower plasma triacylglycerol content in the HFWP1 than in the HF group. These findings suggest that WCPs may help prevent the onset of obesity and metabolic syndrome.

Unlocking the potential of persimmons: A comprehensive review on emerging technologies for post-harvest challenges, processing innovations, and prospective applications

Persimmons are widely acknowledged as a valuable source of both medicinal and nutritional components, providing a diverse spectrum of nutrients and phytochemicals. Despite these benefits, biases against persimmons persists due to their characteristic astringent flavor that sets them apart from other fruits. Although several studies have explored various aspects of persimmons, a comprehensive review that addresses post-harvest challenges, processing innovations, and potential applications is notably absent in the literature. This review aims to fill this gap by discussing a range of topics, including emerging preservation technologies, methods for detecting and eliminating astringency, identification of functional elements, health-promoting prospects, and advancements in processed persimmon products. The primary objective is to enhance the utilization of persimmons and promote the development of diverse, customized products, thereby fostering the emergence of functional and futuristic foods.

Type 2 diabetes prevention: genetic association analysis of dried fruit intake and disease risk

Prior research has suggested an inverse correlation between dried fruit intake and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), yet the causal link remains uncertain. This study seeks to investigate the potential causal impact of dried fruit intake on T2DM, covering cases both with and without various complications, as well as glycaemic traits, using a two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) approach. Using MR analysis with genome-wide association study summary statistics, the primary analysis investigated the causal relationship between dried fruit intake and T2DM, both with and without complications, as well as glycaemic traits, employing the inverse variance weighted method. Supplementary analyses were conducted using MR-Egger and the weighted median method. Heterogeneity and intercept tests were utilised to evaluate the robustness of the study outcomes. The results show a significant association between dried fruit intake and T2DM without complications, as well as fasting insulin. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the results and the independence from multicollinearity. However, no association was found between dried fruit intake and T2DM with various complications or other glycaemic traits. The significant association between dried fruit intake and T2DM without complications and fasting insulin persisted even after adjusting for BMI. This study offers genetic evidence endorsing the protective effects of dried fruit intake against T2DM, specifically for cases without complications, and in regulating fasting insulin. These findings suggest that dried fruit intake might serve as a primary preventive strategy for T2DM.

Polyphenols: Chemistry, bioavailability, bioactivity, nutritional aspects and human health benefits: A review

Polyphenols, including phenolics, alkaloids, and terpenes, are secondary metabolites that are commonly found in fruits, vegetables, and beverages, such as tea, coffee, wine, chocolate, and beer. These compounds have gained considerable attention and market demand because of their potential health benefits. However, their application is limited due to their low absorption rates and reduced tissue distribution efficiency. Engineering polyphenol-protein complexes or conjugates can enhance the antioxidant properties, bioavailability, and stability of polyphenols and improve digestive enzyme hydrolysis, target-specific delivery, and overall biological functions. Complex polyphenols, such as melanin, tannins, and ellagitannins, can promote gut microbiota balance, bolster antioxidant defense, and improve overall human health. Despite these benefits, the safety of polyphenol complexes must be thoroughly evaluated before their use as functional food additives or supplements. This review provides a detailed overview of the types of macromolecular polyphenols, their chemical composition, and their role in food enrichment. The mechanisms by which complex polyphenols act as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer agents have also been discussed.

Purification of Phenolic Compounds from Camellia polyodonta Flower: Composition Analysis, Antioxidant Property, and Hypolipidemic Activity In Vitro and In Vivo

Camellia polyodonta flowers are rich sources of phenolics and less attention has been paid to their potential biological activity. This study aims to explore the crude extracts and resulting purified fractions (CPFP-I, II, III, and IV) through compositional analysis and antioxidant and hypolipidemic activities in vitro and in vivo. Among four fractions, CPFP-II contained the highest total phenolic content and flavonoid content, while CPFP-III exhibited the greatest total proanthocyanidin content. Among the 14 phenolic compounds, CPFP-II displayed the highest content of procyanidin B2, B4, and C1, whereas CPFP-III contained the highest amount of 1,2,3,6-tetragalloylglucose. The DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assessments demonstrated a consistent trend: CPFP-II > CPFP-III > CPFP-I > CPFP-IV. In vivo experiments showed that that all four fractions significantly reduced lipid levels in hyperlipidemic C. elegans (p < 0.05), with CPFP-II exhibiting the most potent effect. Furthermore, CPFP-II effectively bound to bile acids and inhibited the enzymatic activity of pancreatic lipase in vitro. Consequently, CPFP-II should be prioritized as a promising fraction for further exploration and should provide substantial support for the feasibility of the C. polyodonta flower as a natural alternative.

Anti-obesity Properties of Phytochemicals: Highlighting their Molecular Mechanisms against Obesity

Obesity is a complex, chronic and inflammatory disease that affects more than one-third of the world's population, leading to a higher incidence of diabetes, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and some types of cancer. Several phytochemicals are used as flavoring and aromatic compounds, also exerting many benefits for public health. This study aims to summarize and scrutinize the beneficial effects of the most important phytochemicals against obesity. Systematic research of the current international literature was carried out in the most accurate scientific databases, e.g., Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar, using a set of critical and representative keywords, such as phytochemicals, obesity, metabolism, metabolic syndrome, etc. Several studies unraveled the potential positive effects of phytochemicals such as berberine, carvacrol, curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, thymol, etc., against obesity and metabolic disorders. Mechanisms of action include inhibition of adipocyte differentiation, browning of the white adipose tissue, inhibition of enzymes such as lipase and amylase, suppression of inflammation, improvement of the gut microbiota, and downregulation of obesity-inducing genes. In conclusion, multiple bioactive compounds-phytochemicals exert many beneficial effects against obesity. Future molecular and clinical studies must be performed to unravel the multiple molecular mechanisms and anti-obesity activities of these naturally occurring bioactive compounds.

Unveiling major ethnopharmacological aspects of genus Diospyros in context to its chemical diversity: A comprehensive overview

Diospyros species (DS), "Ebenaceae," were known for their therapeutic uses in folk medicine since days of yore. Thereafter, scientific evidence related their health benefits to a myriad of chemical classes, for instance, naphthoquinones, flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, norbergenin derivatives, sterols, secoiridoids, sesquiterpenes, diterpenoids, triterpenoids, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and carotenoids. The available literature showed that more than 200 compounds were isolated and identified via spectroscopic techniques. Many pharmacological activities of DS have been previously described, such as antioxidant, neuroprotective, antibacterial, antiviral, antiprotozoal, antifungal, antiinflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic and cosmeceutical, investigated, and confirmed through versatile in vitro and in vivo assays. Previous studies proved that genus Diospyros is a rich reservoir of valuable bioactive compounds. However, further comparative studies among its different species are recommended for more precise natural source-based drug discovery and clinical application. Accordingly, this review is to recall the chemical abundance and diversity among different members of genus Diospyros and their ethnopharmacological and pharmacological uses. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Practically, providing sufficient background on both secondary metabolites divergence and pharmacological properties of genus Diospyros has many fruitful aspects. As demonstrated below, extracts and many isolated compounds have significant curative properties, which can lead to the discovery of pharmaceutically relevant alternative substitutes to conventional medicine. Consequently, molecular docking on various receptors can be applied. On the grounds, Naoxinqing tablets, a standardized herbal product containing D. kaki leaves extract, have been patented and recorded in Chinese Pharmacopeia as an approved Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for the treatment of cerebro- and cardiovascular diseases, although the underlying mechanism remains under advisement. Moreover, the antimicrobial applications of DS are of considerable concern; since the widespread use of antibiotics resulted in different forms of bacterial resistance, hence, limiting and compromising effective treatment. In addition, as a result of contemporary rampant memory disorders, neuroprotective activities of different extracts of DS became of great emphasis.

Extraction optimization and characterization of persimmon peel pectin extracted by subcritical water

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Persimmon peel pectin (PPP) was extracted by subcritical water.

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PPP had low M_w of 21.79 kDa and its degree of esterification was 40.61 %.

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PPP attributed to a degradation temperature of 228.05 ℃.

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The IC₅₀ of PPP to ABTS•+ was 9.8-times that of commercial citrus pectin in vitro.

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PPP altered microbial intestinal communities in mice.

Persimmon peel pectin (PPP) was extracted by subcritical water via the response surface methodology. The optimal crude PPP extraction yield of 7.62 ± 0.7 % was found at 138 °C, 2.84 min, and liquid–solid ratio of 1:10.02. After treatment of deproteinization and decolorization with papain and hydrogen peroxide, 83.19 % of protein and 78.56 % of the colour in crude PPP were removed, respectively. PPP owned the M_w of 21.79 kDa and its uronic acids content was 64.03 %. PPP was further affirmed by fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffractometer and ¹H NMR analysis. Moreover, the degradation temperature (228.05 ℃) of PPP was verified via differential scanning calorimetry. Then, the IC₅₀ of PPP to ABTS•+ was 9.8 times that of commercial citrus pectin. Moreover, PPP could change microbial communities and selectively enrich Bacteroides, Cetobacterium, Erysipelatoclostridium, Parabacteroides and Phocaeicola sartorii. This study demonstrated that subcritical water was practicable for extraction of persimmon peel pectin.

Proanthocyanidins at the gastrointestinal tract: mechanisms involved in their capacity to mitigate obesity-associated metabolic disorders

The prevalence of overweight and obesity is continually increasing worldwide. Obesity is a major public health concern given the multiple associated comorbidities. Finding dietary approaches to prevent/mitigate these conditions is of critical relevance. Proanthocyanidins (PACs), oligomers or polymers of flavan-3-ols that are extensively distributed in nature, represent a major part of total dietary polyphenols. Although current evidence supports the capacity of PACs to mitigate obesity-associated comorbidities, the underlying mechanisms remain speculative due to the complexity of PACs' structure. Given their limited bioavailability, the major site of the biological actions of intact PACs is the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This review discusses the actions of PACs at the GI tract which could underlie their anti-obesity effects. These mechanisms include: i) inhibition of digestive enzymes at the GI lumen, including pancreatic lipase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase; ii) modification of gut microbiota composition; iii) modulation of inflammation- and oxidative stress-triggered signaling pathways, e.g. NF-κB and MAPKs; iv) protection of the GI barrier integrity. Further understanding of the mechanisms and biological activities of PACs at the GI tract can contribute to develop nutritional and pharmacological strategies oriented to mitigate the serious comorbidities of obesity.

A New Polysaccharide Carrier Isolated from Camelina Cake: Structural Characterization, Rheological Behavior, and Its Influence on Purple Corn Cob Extract's Bioaccessibility

A polysaccharide fraction obtained from camelina cake (CCP), selected as a carrier to encapsulate purple corn cob extract (MCE), was investigated. A wide population of carbohydrate polymers (with a polydispersivity index of 3.26 ± 0.07 and an average molecular weight of about 139.749 × 103 ± 4.392 × 10³ g/mol) with a gel-like behavior and a thixotropic feature characterized the fraction. MCE-CCP combinations (50–50 and 25–75, w/w), selected based on CCP encapsulation efficiency, were tested for their stability and MCE polyphenols’ bioaccessibility during digestion (monitored using an in vitro static procedure). During the oral and gastric phases of the digestion process, CCP gradually swelled and totally released MCE polyphenols. MCE-CCP50 had the fastest release. Moreover, anthocyanins were still detectable during the duodenal phase, in both MCE-CCP ingredients. Furthermore, CCP (5 mg/mL) exerted in vitro potential hypocholesterolemic activity via bile salts binding during digestion.

A novel thiolysis-HPLC method for the determination of proanthocyanidins in grape seeds

A novel thiolysis-HPLC method for quantitative determination of total proanthocyanidins and mean degree of polymerization in grape seeds has been developed. Following thiolysis with formic acid and benzyl mercaptan, reaction products were separated and purified. Three proanthocyanidin monomers and three derivatives were obtained and their structures were identified by LC-MS, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and NMR. A decomposition model of the thiolysis products and a correction formula for proanthocyanidins concentration were established. This thiolysis-HPLC method displayed good calibration linearity (R² > 0.999 over the concentration range 0.01 to 10 mg/mL), and excellent accuracy (recoveries of 97.9-99.6%) and precision (repeatability relative standard deviations of 0.45-0.75%). This method is suitable for the quantitative analysis of proanthocyanidins in grape seed products. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the bile acid-binding properties of dried persimmon and its non-extractable proanthocyanidin fraction

Dried persimmons contain abundant insoluble tannins comprised of non-extractable proanthocyanidins (NEPAs). To determine the beneficial function of NEPAs, we studied the bile acid-binding ability of NEPAs using in vitro and in vivo experiments. For the in vitro evaluation, 70% (v/v) acetone-insoluble solids (AIS) with different NEPA levels was prepared from persimmon fruits during drying. AIS with higher NEPA levels displayed stronger bile acid-binding activity, and the highest NEPA levels can be obtained from mostly-dried fruits. The in vivo bile acid-excreting effect of dried persimmon powder (DP) and AIS was verified by feeding experiments using C57BL/6J mice. The average bile acid-excretion was in order of low-fat group (1.07 µmol/day) < high-fat (HF) group (3.03 µmol/day) < HF + AIS group (4.44 µmol/day) < HF + DP group (6.74 µmol/day). These results suggest that the bile acid-excreting function of the fruit is related to the presence of NEPAs, which are constitutive ingredients of dried persimmon.

Bile Acid Sequestrants for Hypercholesterolemia Treatment Using Sustainable Biopolymers: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives

Bile acids, the endogenous steroid nucleus containing signaling molecules, are responsible for the regulation of multiple metabolic processes, including lipoprotein and glucose metabolism to maintain homeostasis. Within our body, they are directly produced from their immediate precursors, cholesterol C (low-density lipoprotein C, LDL-C), through the enzymatic catabolic process mediated by 7-α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1). Bile acid sequestrants (BASs) or amphiphilic resins that are nonabsorbable to the human body (being complex high molecular weight polymers/electrolytes) are one of the classes of drugs used to treat hypercholesterolemia (a high plasma cholesterol level) or dyslipidemia (lipid abnormalities in the body); thus, they have been used clinically for more than 50 years with strong safety profiles as demonstrated by the Lipid Research Council-Cardiovascular Primary Prevention Trial (LRC-CPPT). They reduce plasma LDL-C and can slightly increase high-density lipoprotein C (HDL-C) levels, whereas many of the recent clinical studies have demonstrated that they can reduce glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, due to higher daily dosage requirements, lower efficacy in LDL-C reduction, and concomitant drug malabsorption, research to develop an "ideal" BAS from sustainable or natural sources with better LDL-C lowering efficacy and glucose regulations and lower side effects is being pursued. This Review discusses some recent developments and their corresponding efficacies as bile removal or LDL-C reduction of natural biopolymer (polysaccharide)-based compounds.

The Different Contributors to Antioxidant Activity in Thermally Dried Flesh and Peel of Astringent Persimmon Fruit

In the thermal-drying processing of astringent persimmon fruit, the tissue-specific changes in the key antioxidants have hardly been investigated, while they have been well investigated in the flesh. We report here the different patterns of the antioxidant activities in the thermally processed flesh and peel of astringent persimmon, with analyses of the carotenoids, the condensed and hydrolysable tannins, and the total phenolics and flavonoids. The persimmon powders presented different colors on the basis of the drying temperatures: brown in 30 °C; light yellow in 60 °C; and dark brown in 90 °C, respectively. Non-maillard reaction and reduction of carotenoids caused the light-yellow color of 60 °C dried persimmon. Thermal drying reduced the antioxidant activities of the flesh in a temperature-dependent manner, with decreases in the carotenoids, the condensed and hydrolysable tannins, and the total phenolics and flavonoids, whereas it enhanced the antioxidant activities of the peel. The increase in the antioxidant activities in the peel were mainly the result of the increase in the total phenolics by the thermal effect, and especially in the content of the hydrolysable tannins, although the thermal processing decreased the other components. The heat-induced increase of antioxidant activity in the peel showed a strong significant correlation only with the contents of total phenolics (r² = 0.9493) and total hydrolysable tannins (r² = 0.9288), suggesting that the main antioxidant contributors differ from the flesh.

In vitro assessment of the bioavailability of bioactive non-extractable polyphenols obtained by pressurized liquid extraction combined with enzymatic-assisted extraction from sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) pomace

In vitro digestion and absorption simulation processes of non-extractable polyphenols (NEPs) obtained by pressurized liquid extraction combined with enzymatic-assisted extraction with Promod enzyme (PLE-EAE) from the residue of conventional extraction of sweet cherry pomace were studied. In general, total phenolic and proanthocyanidin contents decreased in each phase of the digestion. However, the antioxidant capacity increased when the digestion process progressed. In addition, the highest total phenolic and proanthocyanidin contents and antioxidant capacity were obtained in the absorbed fraction. NEPs from PLE-EAE extract, digestive fractions, absorbed and unabsorbed fractions were analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization quadrupole Exactive-Orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-Q-Orbitrap-MS). Fifteen NEPs were identified in the intestinal fraction and five in the absorbed fraction after the digestion process. Results obtained in this study define for the first time the bioavailability of antioxidant NEPs obtained from sweet cherry pomace.

In Vitro and In Vivo Digestion of Persimmon and Derived Products: A Review

The link between nutrition and health has focused on the strategy of diet-based programs to deal with various physiological threats, such as cardiovascular disease, oxidative stress, and diabetes. Therefore, the consumption of fruits and vegetables as a safeguard for human health is increasingly important. Among fruits, the intake of persimmon is of great interest because several studies have associated its consumption with health benefits due to its high content of bioactive compounds, fiber, minerals, and vitamins. However, during digestion, some changes take place in persimmon nutritional compounds that condition their subsequent use by the human body. In vitro studies indicate different rates of recovery and bioaccessibility depending on the bioactive compound and the matrix in which they are found. In vivo studies show that the pharmacological application of persimmon or its functional components, such as proanthocyanidins, can help to prevent hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia. Thus, persimmon and persimmon derived products have the potential to be a fruit recommended for diet therapy. This review aims to compile an updated review of the benefits of persimmon and its derived products, focusing on the in vitro and in vivo digestibility of the main nutrients and bioactive compounds.

Hypolipidemic Effects of Fermented Seaweed Extracts by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum

The fermentation of food materials with suitable probiotic strains is an effective way to improve biological activities. In this study, seaweed extracts were fermented by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and the hypolipidemic effects of the fermentation products were investigated. In vitro experiments suggested that fermented seaweed extracts have a high capacity for bile acid-binding. Additionally, a significant inhibitory effect against pancreatic lipase was observed. Furthermore, effects in hyperlipidemic mice were determined. Fermented seaweed extracts can alleviate lipid metabolism disorder. The administration of fermented seaweed extracts to mice showed decreased total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. Combined, these results suggest that fermented seaweed extracts perform a potent hypolipidemic action, thus providing an effective method for the preparation of functional foods to combat cardiovascular diseases.

Potential of Persimmon Dietary Fiber Obtained from Byproducts as Antioxidant, Prebiotic and Modulating Agent of the Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Function

Appropriate nutrition targets decrease the risk of incidence of preventable diseases in addition to providing physiological benefits. Dietary fiber, despite being available and necessary in balanced nutrition, are consumed at below daily requirements. Food byproducts high in dietary fiber and free and bonded bioactive compounds are often discarded. Herein, persimmon byproducts are presented as an interesting source of fiber and bioactive compounds. The solvent extraction effects of dietary fiber from persimmon byproducts on its techno- and physio-functional properties, and on the Caco-2 cell model after being subjected to in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and probiotic bacterial fermentation, were evaluated. The total, soluble, and insoluble dietary fiber, total phenolic, carotenoid, flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activity were determined. After in vitro digestion, low quantities of bonded phenolic compounds were detected in all fiber fractions. Moreover, total phenolic and carotenoid contents, as well as antioxidant activity, decreased depending on the extraction solvent, whereas short chain fatty acids production increased. Covalently bonded compounds in persimmon fiber mainly consisted of hydroxycinnamic acids and flavanols. After probiotic bacterial fermentation, few phenolic compounds were determined in all fiber fractions. Results suggest that persimmon's dietary fiber functional properties are dependent on the extraction process used, which may promote a strong probiotic response and modulate the epithelial barrier function.

Identification of Phenolic Constituents and Inhibitory Activity of Persimmon Calyx and Shiteito against Tumor Cell Proliferation

The persistent calyx on the fruit of Diospyros kaki, called "Shitei" in Japanese, is reported to contain phenolic compounds including condensed tannins. In this study, we isolated and characterized a new compound, together with 26 phenolic components, from the 70% acetone extract of Shitei, with structural elucidation based on spectroscopic analyses. In addition, we confirmed the presence of condensed tannins by ¹³C-NMR spectra, and the weight-average molecular weight was estimated by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) analysis. Next, Shiteito, a Kampo medicine consisting of Shitei, ginger, and clove clinically used to treat chronic hiccoughs occurring in association with anticancer drug treatments, and hot-water extracts of each of its components, were analyzed by HPLC, which determined that the main ingredient in Shiteito was derived from clove. We therefore isolated the ingredients and investigated their anti-tumor cell proliferative activity, together with Shiteito and Shitei extracts. As a result, Shiteito showed weak inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma (Hep3B) cell proliferation at a high concentration. In contrast, ellagic acid, one of the main constituents of Shiteito, showed significant cytotoxicity against Hep3B cells, and significant inhibition of gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner. The ethyl acetate (EtOAc) fraction of the 70% acetone extract of Shitei significantly inhibited the proliferation of colon adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) and AGS cells at low to middle concentration, while showing strong cytotoxicity against Hep3B. These data indicate that Shiteito and Shitei extracts could enhance cancer drug treatment by preventing the associated chronic hiccups, and have the potential to be adjuvant treatments as well.

The beneficial effects of polysaccharide obtained from persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) on the proliferation of Lactobacillus and gut microbiota

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of polysaccharide extracts from persimmon (PPE) on the proliferation of Lactobacillus and the gut microbiota of mice. Lactobacillus strains were cultured in medium containing PPE, and differential gene expression was evaluated using transcriptomics. In addition, 16S rDNA was employed to analyze the abundance and diversity of fecal colonies in mice, and the influence of PPE on the intestinal flora in mice was further examined. The results showed that Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Lactobacillus acidophilus CICC 6075 could proliferate in PPE medium. Gene ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomics (KEGG) pathway analysis indicated that glucose metabolism-related genes, such as phosphoyruvate hydratase (eno) and PTS mannose transporter subunit IIAB (manX), were up-regulated. The metabolic pathways of fructose and mannose were also significantly up-regulated. After gavage of mice with PPE, 16S rDNA sequencing of mouse feces indicated that the beneficial bacteria in the intestines proliferated and the abundance of harmful bacteria was reduced. PPE can maintain the balance of intestinal microorganisms in mice. Therefore, PPE has a significant positive effect on both Lactobacillus proliferation and gut microbiota of mice.

Pork Liver Pâté Enriched with Persimmon Coproducts: Effect of In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion on Its Fatty Acid and Polyphenol Profile Stability

Agrofood coproducts are used to enrich meat products to reduce harmful compounds and contribute to fiber and polyphenol enrichment. Pork liver pâtés with added persimmon coproducts (3 and 6%; PR-3 and PR-6, respectively) were developed. Therefore, the aim was to study the effect of their in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on: the free and bound polyphenol profile (HPLC) and their colon-available index; the lipid oxidation (TBARs); and the stability of the fatty acid profile (GC). Furthermore, the effect of lipolysis was investigated using two pancreatins with different lipase activity. Forty-two polyphenols were detected in persimmon flour, which were revealed as a good source of bound polyphenols in pâtés, especially gallic acid (164.3 µg/g d.w. in PR-3 and 631.8 µg/g d.w. in PR-6). After gastrointestinal digestion, the colon-available index in enriched pâté ranged from 88.73 to 195.78%. The different lipase activity in the intestinal phase caused significant differences in bound polyphenols' stability, contributing to increased lipid oxidation. The fatty acids profile in pâté samples was stable, and surprisingly their PUFA content was raised. In conclusion, rich fatty foods, such as pâté, are excellent vehicles to preserve bound polyphenols, which can reach the colon intact and be metabolized by the intestinal microbiome.

Prevention of the rise in plasma cholesterol and glucose levels by kaki-tannin and characterization of its bile acid binding capacity

BACKGROUND

Bile acid-binding agents, such as cholestyramine and colesevelam, improve both cholesterol and glucose metabolism. Kaki-tannin, a polymerized condensed tannin derived from persimmon (Diospyros kaki), has been shown to have bile acid-binding capacity and a hypocholesterolemic effect. However, its effects on glucose metabolism have not been well studied, and the binding selectivity of kaki-tannin to bile acid molecules has not been reported.

RESULTS

In vivo experiments using mice with high-fat diet-induced obesity showed that kaki-tannin intake (20 g kg^-1 of the diet) increased fecal bile acid excretion by 2.3-fold and prevented a rise in plasma cholesterol levels and fasting plasma glucose levels. Kaki-tannin also suppressed the development of impaired glucose tolerance. To characterize the bile acid-binding capacity of kaki-tannin, we investigated its capacity to bind to eight types of bile acid and cholesterol in vitro. Kaki-tannin showed strong capacity to bind to lithocholic acid (85.5%), which has one hydroxy group. It also showed moderate capacity to bind to bile acids with two hydroxy groups (53.3%), followed by those with three hydroxy groups (39.0%), but kaki-tannin did not show binding capacity to cholesterol. These results suggest that the binding capacity of kaki-tannin to bile acids tends to decrease as the number of hydroxy groups increases. Interestingly, the binding capacity of kaki-tannin correlated with that of cholestyramine (correlation coefficient: r = 0.900).

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that kaki-tannin binds preferentially to bile acids with fewer hydroxy groups and has beneficial effects on glucose metabolism as well as cholesterol metabolism. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Applications of natural product-derived carbon dots in cancer biology

Natural products have contributed conspicuously to the development of innovative nanomedicines. Hence, the interface between nanomaterial science and plant natural products may bestow comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for tackling diseases such as cancer and neurological disorders. Natural product-derived carbon dots (NPdCDs) have revealed noteworthy attributes in the fields of cancer theranostics, microbial imaging, drug sensing and drug delivery. As plants consist of a cocktail of bioactive phytomolecules, the NPdCDs can be anticipated to have medicinal properties, biocompatibility, photo-stability and easy functionalization. NPdCDs have wide-ranging applications. The primary objective of this review is to comment on recent developments in the use of NPdCDs, with special reference to their application in cancer biology. The future of the use of NPdCDs has also been considered.

Phenolics and related in vitro functional activities of different varieties of fresh waxy corn: a whole grain

The polyphenol distribution in fresh waxy corns of different color varieties and their functional activities, which may be useful for treating various chronic diseases, were investigated. The in vitro antioxidant activity, and hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic effects of the free and bound corn phenolics were determined to evaluate the edible value of fresh waxy corn. The colored varieties contained more phenols than the common varieties (white and/or yellow). The total free phenolic acid content of the six varieties was 6637.73 µg/g DW (dry weight), which was slightly higher (P > 0.05) than that of the total bound form (6276.65 µg/g DW). The total free flavonoid content was 5850.09 µg/g DW, which was higher (P < 0.05) than that of the total bound form (4874.51µg/g DW). No bound anthocyanin was detected in the methanol extracts of the tested varieties. For all the varieties, free polyphenols contributed 86−100 % and 70−78 % of the 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl radical scavenging abilities, respectively, and 100 % of the ferric reducing capacity. The free phenolics in fresh waxy corn showed better (P < 0.05) hypoglycemic effect than the bound form in terms of inhibition of α-amylase activity, whereas the bound phenolics of most varieties showed higher α-glucosidase inhibitory activity than the free forms. The free phenolics showed better (P < 0.05) glycocholesterol binding than the bound form for all varieties. The bound polyphenols showed better sodium cholate and taurocholate binding than the free form for most varieties. In conclusion, the difference between free and bound polyphenol content and functional activities indicates that fresh waxy corn can be potentially used for the development of functional food.

Extractable and Non-Extractable Antioxidants Composition in the eBASIS Database: A Key Tool for Dietary Assessment in Human Health and Disease Research

The antioxidant properties of foods are crucial in nutrition, food chemistry, and medicine studies but are often underestimated, with significant amounts of bioactive compounds containing physiological and biochemical properties remaining in the residue from extraction as non-extractable antioxidants. Over the last decade, extractable and non-extractable compounds have become key in the evaluation/determination of the antioxidant properties of food matrices because of their relevance in human health. This has led to the need to include extractable and non-extractable antioxidants in comprehensive and harmonized food composition databases for a wide range of applications within research, food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmeceutical areas. Additionally, the databases are invaluable as part of the health claims application process. eBASIS, (Bioactive Substances in Food Information System) a comprehensive database containing quality-evaluated scientific data, covering the composition of bioactive compounds present in foods, has flexible structures, allowing it to be extended to include newly emerging data on extractable and non-extractable compounds. Search criteria were developed and defined for compiling suitable peer-reviewed literature. Data quality assessment methods were established for the addition of composition data and antioxidant activity, with a focus on various parameters including: the extraction procedure, the antioxidant measurements, the expression of results. A total of 437 quality-evaluated datapoints on the composition of extractable and/or non-extractable compounds were entered into the database. This database update represents one of the first examples of building a database dedicated to antioxidant properties. This expansion of eBASIS provides a novel and unique tool for nutritionists, dietitians, researchers to use for a wide range of applications, such as dietary assessment, exposure studies and epidemiological studies, and may contribute to an increase in high-bioactive food consumption by consumers.

Mechanisms of Interactions between Bile Acids and Plant Compounds-A Review

Plant compounds are described to interact with bile acids during small intestinal digestion. This review will summarise mechanisms of interaction between bile acids and plant compounds, challenges in in vivo and in vitro analyses, and possible consequences on health. The main mechanisms of interaction assume that increased viscosity during digestion results in reduced micellar mobility of bile acids, or that bile acids and plant compounds are associated or complexed at the molecular level. Increasing viscosity during digestion due to specific dietary fibres is considered a central reason for bile acid retention. Furthermore, hydrophobic interactions are proposed to contribute to bile acid retention in the small intestine. Although frequently hypothesised, no mechanism of permanent binding of bile acids by dietary fibres or indigestible protein fractions has yet been demonstrated. Otherwise, various polyphenolic structures were recently associated with reduced micellar solubility and modification of steroid and bile acid excretion but underlying molecular mechanisms of interaction are not yet fully understood. Therefore, future research activities need to consider the complex composition and cell-wall structures as influenced by processing when investigating bile acid interactions. Furthermore, influences of bile acid interactions on gut microbiota need to be addressed to clarify their role in bile acid metabolism.

Non-Extractable Polyphenols from Food By-Products: Current Knowledge on Recovery, Characterisation, and Potential Applications

Non-extractable polyphenols (NEPs), or bound polyphenols, are a significant fraction of polyphenols that are retained in the extraction residues after conventional aqueous organic solvent extraction. They include both high molecular weight polymeric polyphenols and low molecular weight phenolics attached to macromolecules. Current knowledge proved that these bioactive compounds possess high antioxidant, antidiabetic, and other biological activities. Plant-based food by-products, such as peels, pomace, and seeds, possess high amount of NEPs. The recovery of these valuable compounds is considered an effective way to recycle food by-products and mitigate pollution, bad manufacturing practice, and economic loss caused by the residues management. The current challenge to valorise NEPs from plant-based by-products is to increase the extraction efficiency with proper techniques, choose appropriate characterising methods, and explore potential functions to use in some products. Based on this scenario, the present review aims to summarise the extraction procedure and technologies applied to recover NEPs from plant-based by-products. Furthermore, it also describes the main techniques used for the characterisation of NEPs and outlines their potential food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications.

Polyphenol-induced improvements in glucose metabolism are associated with bile acid signaling to intestinal farnesoid X receptor

INTRODUCTION

Bile acid (BA) biotransformation by gut bacteria impacts BA profile and signaling to nuclear receptors, such as the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulating glucose metabolism. Altered BA-FXR signaling was therefore investigated as a potential mechanism linking polyphenol-induced gut bacterial changes and improved glucose metabolism.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Diabetic db/db were fed low-fat diet (LFD) or LFD supplemented with a proanthocyanidin-rich extract of grape polyphenols (LFD-GP) for 4 weeks. Metabolic phenotypes, serum BAs, gut microbiota composition, and gene expression markers relevant to gut barrier and glucose metabolism were assessed. Gut organoids were used to investigate effects of individual BAs on ileal FXR activity.

RESULTS

Compared with LFD-fed controls, GP supplemented db/db mice showed improved glucose metabolism, decreased relative abundance of gut bacteria associated with production of secondary BAs (SBAs), and depleted serum levels of SBAs taurohyodeoxycholic acid (THDCA), ω-muricholic acid (ωMCA), and tauro-ω-muricholic acid (TωMCA). Serum levels of primary BAs (PBAs) increased, consistent with higher gene expression of PBA synthesis enzyme Cyp7a1. GP-induced BA changes associated with FXR inhibition as evidenced by reduced expression of FXR-responsive genes Shp, Fgf15, and Fabp6 in ileum tissue as well as hepatic Shp, which negatively regulates PBA synthesis. GP treatment did not affect expression of hepatic Fxr or expression of Abcb11, Slc51b, and Obp2a genes controlling BA transport. Ceramide biosynthesis genes Smpd3, Sptlc2, and Cers4 were decreased in liver and intestine suggesting lower tissue ceramides levels may contribute to improved glucose metabolism. THDCA, ωMCA, and TωMCA behaved as FXR agonists in ileal organoid experiments; therefore, their depletion in serum of GP-supplemented db/db and wild type (WT) mice was consistent with FXR inhibition.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that by altering the gut microbiota, GPs modify BA-FXR signaling pathways to promote glucoregulation.

Characterisation of the molecular interactions between primary bile acids and fractionated lupin cotyledons (Lupinus angustifolius L.)

Interactions between bile acids and plant-based materials, and the related feedback mechanisms in enterohepatic circulation, have been considered targets for lowering cholesterol. This study aimed to identify lupin compounds that interact with primary bile acids on molecular level. Lupin cotyledons were fractionated and bile acid adsorbing activities were investigated using in vitro digestion, equilibrium dialysis and kinetic analyses. Protein- and fibre-enriched fractions significantly (p ≤ 0.05) adsorbed chenodesoxycholic acids (up to 2.33 µmol/100 g DM). Alcohol purification showed that bile acid adsorption is independent of protein and fibre structures. Moreover, high adsorption was observed with an alcohol extract (6.97 µmol chenodesoxycholic acids/100 g DM) that was rich in phytochemicals, such as flavonoids (1842 mg/100 g DM). These results suggest the formation of hydrophobic interactions between polyphenols and bile acids. Further studies of molecular mechanisms are required to define the contributions of polyphenols to the cholesterol-lowering actions of lupins.

Review of Distribution, Extraction Methods, and Health Benefits of Bound Phenolics in Food Plants

Phenolic compounds are important functional bioactive substances distributed in various food plants. They have gained wide interest from researchers due to their multiple health benefits. There are two forms of phenolic compounds: free form and bound form. The latter is also called bound phenolics (BPs), which are found mainly in the cell wall and distributed in various tissues/organs of the plant body. They can either chemically bind to macromolecules and food matrixes or be physically entrapped in food matrixes and intact cells. Various isolation methods, including chemical, biological, and physical methods, have been employed to extract BPs from plants. BPs have been shown to have strong biological activities, including antioxidant, probiotic, anticancer, anti-inflammation, antiobesity, and antidiabetic effects as well as beneficial effects on central nervous system diseases. This review summarizes research findings on these topics to help in better understanding of BPs and provide comprehensive information on their health effects.

Phytosomes with Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) Extract: Preparation and Preliminary Demonstration of In Vivo Tolerability

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.), a fruit rich in phenolic compounds (PCs), has been considered effective in mitigating oxidative damage induced by an excess of reactive oxygen species. Due to large molecular weight and intrinsic instability in some physiological fluids, PCs’ passage through biological membranes is very limited. Carriers like phytosomes are promising systems to optimize oral absorption of encapsulated extracts. This work prepared and fully characterized phytosomes containing bioactive phenolic extracts from persimmon in terms of size, surface charge, encapsulation efficiency and stability over six months. These phytosomes were orally dosed to Wistar rats during a 15-day period. Afterwards, haematological and biochemical analyses were performed. Monodisperse phytosomes were successfully prepared, with size less than 300nm (PI < 0.3) and high encapsulation efficiency (97.4%) of PCs. In contrast to free extract, extract-loaded phytosomes had higher antioxidant activity after 6 months storage. Oral administration of extract-loaded phytosomes and free extract did not lead to lipidic profile changes and were within referenced normal ranges, as well as glycaemia levels and urine parameters. The results highlighted the potential of persimmon PCs as food supplements or pharmacological tools, suggesting a promising and safe phytosomal formulation containing bioactive agents of persimmon that could lead to health benefits.