Elevated CO2 improves glucosinolate metabolism and stimulates anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties of broccoli sprouts

Advanced technologies in plant factories: exploring current and future economic and environmental benefits in urban horticulture

Plant factories (PFs), also known as vertical farms, are advanced agricultural production systems that operate independently of geographical and environmental conditions. They utilize artificial light and controlled environments to produce horticultural plants year-round. This approach offers a promising solution for the stable and efficient supply of high-quality horticultural produce in urban areas, enhancing resilient urban food systems. This review explores the economic and environmental impacts and potential of PFs. Breakthroughs in PF research and development are highlighted, including increased product yields and quality, reduced energy input and CO2 emissions through optimized growing conditions and automation systems, transitioning to clean energy, improved resource use efficiency, and reduced food transport distances. Moreover, innovations and applications of PFs have been proposed to address challenges from both economic and environmental perspectives. The proposed development of PF technologies for economic and environmental benefits represents a comprehensive and promising approach to urban horticulture, significantly enhancing the impact and benefits of fundamental research and industrial applications.

The biomass and health-enhancing qualities of lettuce are amplified through the inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi

With lettuce being one of the most important green crops in the world, it is important to improve its growth and nutritive value. To this end, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) application to improve nutrient-dense foods and the production of bioactive compounds in plants is a promising approach. AMF is applied to increase plant growth, primary metabolism, mineral profile and accumulation of secondary (phenols, flavonoids) metabolites. AMF treated plants showed increased biomass accumulation by 38.8%. This increase was in line with increased levels of photosynthesis rate and the total chlorophyll content by approximately 28.8%, respectively. In nutritive value, AMF increased mineral profile, vitamin contents and carbohydrate as indicated by D-mannose, L-galactose, and vitamin E (p < 0.05) by approximately 32.7%, 25%, and 46.6%, respectively. The AMF-treated lettuce's proximate composition revealed considerably greater levels of total protein (7.8%), as well as crude fiber, ash, and carbohydrates (about 7%) compared to control samples (p < 0.05). Furthermore, AMF inoculation increased levels of antioxidants, essential amino acids, and unsaturated fatty acids. It increased the levels of antioxidants such as alpha and beta carotene, polyphenols, which was correlated with increased phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) enzyme activity. Treatment with AMF resulted in an increase of more than 76% of the detected amino acids, with the highest increment observed for isoleucine, methionine and biosynthetic enzyme (cystathionine γ-synthase (CGS)), and which were 200%, 270.2%, and 153.5%, respectively. Increased bioactive accumulation also resulted in improved antioxidant and antidiabetic and antibacterial activities against a variety of pathogenic microorganisms. The findings indicate that the AMF treatment is a feasible method for enhancing lettuce's biological characteristics and health-promoting attributes.

Climate Change and Plant Foods: The Influence of Environmental Stressors on Plant Metabolites and Future Food Sources

Climate change is reshaping global agriculture by altering temperature regimes and other environmental conditions, with profound implications for food security and agricultural productivity. This review examines how key environmental stressors-such as extreme temperatures, water scarcity, increased salinity, UV-B radiation, and elevated concentrations of ozone and CO2-impact the nutritional quality and bioactive compounds in plant-based foods. These stressors can modify the composition of essential nutrients, particularly phytochemicals, which directly affect the viability of specific crops in certain regions and subsequently influence human dietary patterns by shifting the availability of key food resources. To address these challenges, there is growing interest in resilient plant species, including those with natural tolerance to stress and genetically modified variants, as well as in alternative protein sources derived from plants. Additionally, unconventional food sources, such as invasive plant species and algae, are being explored as sustainable solutions for future nutrition.

Methods of Modifying the Content of Glucosinolates and Their Derivatives in Sprouts and Microgreens During Their Cultivation and Postharvest Handling

Sprouts and microgreens which belong to the Brassicaceae family contain significantly more glucosinolates than mature vegetables, and their composition often differs too. These plant growth stages can be a valuable supplement of the aforementioned compounds in the diet. The content and proportion of individual glucosinolates in sprouts and microgreens can be regulated by modifying the length and temperature of cultivation, the type of light, the use of mineral compounds, elicitation, primming, and cold plasma as well as storage conditions. The way in which sprouts are prepared for consumption affects the yield of glucosinolate hydrolysis. Genetic variation leading to different plant responses to the same factors (e.g., type of light) makes it necessary to conduct detailed studies involving species and variety diversity. Heat stress and the use of cold plasma appear to be fairly universal methods for increasing glucosinolate content. Studies on the use of light at different wavelengths do not provide unequivocal results. Despite experiments on the use of seed soaking solutions (e.g., sulfur and selenium compounds), there are no studies in the available literature on the effects of chemical and thermal seed disinfection methods on the glucosinolate content of the obtained sprouts and microgreens.

Comprehensive Analysis of Bioactive Compounds, Functional Properties, and Applications of Broccoli By-Products

Broccoli by-products, traditionally considered inedible, possess a comprehensive nutritional and functional profile. These by-products are abundant in glucosinolates, particularly glucoraphanin, and sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate renowned for its potent antioxidant and anticarcinogenic properties. Broccoli leaves are a significant source of phenolic compounds, including kaempferol and quercetin, as well as pigments, vitamins, and essential minerals. Additionally, they contain proteins, essential amino acids, lipids, and carbohydrates, with the leaves exhibiting the highest protein content among the by-products. Processing techniques such as ultrasound-assisted extraction and freeze-drying are crucial for maximizing the concentration and efficacy of these bioactive compounds. Advanced analytical methods, such as high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS), have enabled precise characterization of these bioactives. Broccoli by-products have diverse applications in the food industry, enhancing the nutritional quality of food products and serving as natural substitutes for synthetic additives. Their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties not only contribute to health promotion but also support sustainability by reducing agricultural waste and promoting a circular economy, thereby underscoring the value of these often underutilized components.

Glucosinolates and Their Hydrolytic Products-A Love Story of Environmental, Biological, and Chemical Conditions

BACKGROUND

Glucosinolates (GSL) play an important role in providing defense to plants and helping them to cope with various biotic, as well as abiotic, stresses. Many living beings including humans and animals, including some herbivores, have adapted themselves to use this defense mechanism for their own use. More than 120 glucosinolates are distributed within a large number of plants. Many factors are known to influence the GSL composition in a plant. Among these, cofactors, myrosinase isozymes, heavy metals and the environmental conditions such as light, CO2 and temperature are important in regulation. These factors ensure that different glucosinolate compositions can be produced by the plants, thus impacting the defense mechanism.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the current review is to highlight the importance of the factors responsible for affecting glucosinolate composition and concentration.

METHODS

The review has been compiled using accessible literature from Pubmed, Scopus, and Google scholar. Efforts have been made to restrict the literature to the last 5 years (2018-2023), with some exceptions.

RESULTS

The current critical review acts as a resource for all the researchers working on these essential compounds. It provides information on the factors that may influence glucosinolate production. It also gives them an opportunity to modify the glucosinolate composition of a plant using the given information.

CONCLUSIONS

Glucosinolates have long been an ignored class of biomolecule. The plethora of biological activities of the compounds can be useful. Though there are some harmful components such as goitrin and progoitrin, these can be easily removed by modulating some of the factors highlighted in the review.

HIGHLIGHTS

The current review has covered most of the factors that have the ability to modify glucosinolate composition and concentration. The mechanistic action of these factors has also been discussed using the current available literature.

Improving plant adaptation to soil antimony contamination: the synergistic contribution of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus and olive mill waste

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the alterations in biochemical and physiological responses of oat plants exposed to antimony (Sb) contamination in soil. Specifically, we evaluated the effectiveness of an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) and olive mill waste (OMW) in mitigating the effects of Sb contamination. The soil was treated with a commercial strain of AMF (Rhizophagus irregularis) and OMW (4% w/w) under two different levels of Sb (0 and 1500 mg kg-1 soil).

RESULTS

The combined treatment (OMW + AMF) enhanced the photosynthetic rate (+ 40%) and chlorophyll a (+ 91%) and chlorophyll b (+ 50%) content under Sb condition, which in turn induced more biomass production (+ 67-78%) compared to the contaminated control plants. More photosynthesis in OMW + AMF-treated plants gives a route for phenylalanine amino acid synthesis (+ 69%), which is used as a precursor for the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, including flavonoids (+ 110%), polyphenols (+ 26%), and anthocyanins (+ 63%) compared to control plants. More activation of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (+ 38%) and chalcone synthase (+ 26%) enzymes in OMW + AMF-treated plants under Sb stress indicated the activation of phenylpropanoid pathways in antioxidant metabolites biosynthesis. There was also improved shifting of antioxidant enzyme activities in the ASC/GSH and catalytic pathways in plants in response to OMW + AMF and Sb contamination, remarkably reducing oxidative damage markers.

CONCLUSIONS

While individual applications of OMW and AMF also demonstrated some degree of plant tolerance induction, the combined presence of AMF with OMW supplementation significantly enhanced plant biomass production and adaptability to oxidative stress induced by soil Sb contamination.

Diverse projected climate change scenarios affect the physiology of broccoli plants to different extents

Climate change caused by global warming involves crucial plant growth factors such as atmospheric CO2 concentration, ambient temperature or water availability. These stressors usually co-occur, causing intricate alterations in plant physiology and development. This work focuses on how elevated atmospheric CO2 levels, together with the concomitant high temperature, would affect the physiology of a relevant crop, such as broccoli. Particular attention has been paid to those defence mechanisms that contribute to plant fitness under abiotic stress. Results show that both photosynthesis and leaf transpiration were reduced in plants grown under climate change environments compared to those grown under current climate conditions. Furthermore, an induction of carbohydrate catabolism pointed to a redistribution from primary to secondary metabolism. This result could be related to a reinforcement of cell walls, as well as to an increase in the pool of antioxidants in the leaves. Broccoli plants, a C3 crop, grown under an intermediate condition showed activation of those adaptive mechanisms, which would contribute to coping with abiotic stress, as confirmed by reduced levels of lipid peroxidation relative to current climate conditions. On the contrary, the most severe climate change scenario exceeded the adaptive capacity of broccoli plants, as shown by the inhibition of growth and reduced vigour of plants. In conclusion, only a moderate increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration and temperature would not have a negative impact on broccoli crop yields.

Rapeseed plant: biostimulation effects of plant growth-promoting Actinobacteria on metabolites and antioxidant defense system under elevated CO2 conditions

BACKGROUND

The present study set out to evaluate the potential of plant growth-promoting Actinobacteria (PGPB) in improving some physiological and molecular parameters of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) plants under ambient and elevated CO2 conditions by assessing some nitrogen- and sulfur-containing metabolites, antioxidant defense system and antimicrobial activity. With this aim, a pot experiment was conducted where the rapeseed plants were treated with Actinobacterium sp. strain NCO2 (OQ451136) and were grown under two levels of air CO2 concentrations: ambient CO2 (aCO2 , 410 μmol CO2  mol-1 ); and elevated CO2 (eCO2 , 710 μmol CO2  mol-1 ).

RESULTS

There was an increase in the photosynthetic pigments (+35-80%) and photosynthesis rate (+20-34%) in PGPB-treated plants under eCO2 compared to control plants, resulting in further growth and biomass production (+53-294%). These results were associated with an enhancement in the content of total antioxidant capacity (+15-128%), polyphenols (+21-126%) and α-tocopherols (+20-138%) under both eCO2 and PGPB application (in combination or individual application), while only the combined treatment (eCO2  + PGPB) led to a significantly higher accumulation of antioxidant enzymes (+88-197%), β-tocopherols (+177%) and flavonoids (+155%). Moreover, nitrogen- and sulfur-containing metabolites (glucosinolates and amino acids) were improved by PGPB treatment and/or CO2 levels, in which PGPB increased the amino acid-derived glucosinolate induction by eCO2 with low levels of effective sulforaphane.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, the interaction effects of beneficial Actinobacteria and eCO2 are expected to boost the level of antioxidant molecules and to have a helpful role in improving plant biomass and adaptability to complicated climate changes in the future. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Glucoraphanin Accumulation via Glucoraphanin Synthesis Promotion during Broccoli Germination

Glucoraphanin is an important glucosinolate which is widely distributed in Brassica vegetables and poses an anticancer effect to humans. Although researchers have paid a lot of attention to the changes in glucoraphanin concentration in seedlings of broccoli over 1-2 weeks, there has been little research focusing on the total whole-sprout glucoraphanin content within broccoli seedlings over 1-5 weeks. However, it is necessary to clarify the changes in total glucoraphanin content during the broccoli sprouting stage as broccoli seedlings are novel plant foods. This research explored glucoraphanin absolute accumulation and the biosynthesis mechanism in broccoli seedlings during a 5-week growth period. The results showed that glucoraphanin accumulation content was higher at week 4 than in the seeds. Moreover, the relative DL-methionine contents increased significantly after 3 weeks. Glucoraphanin synthetic gene expression levels were increased after 3 weeks, but the gene expressions of AOP3 (encoding 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases) and MYR (encoding myrosinase) were significantly decreased. Furthermore, the 20 essential DEGs obtained can provide new insight into understanding the developmental regulation of broccoli seedlings. In addition, the results can also provide information on how to obtain higher glucoraphanin contents in broccoli sprouts.

Elevated CO2 reduced antimony toxicity in wheat plants by improving photosynthesis, soil microbial content, minerals, and redox status

Introduction

Antimony (Sb), a common rare heavy metal, is naturally present in soils at low concentrations. However, it is increasingly used in industrial applications, which in turn, leads to an increased release into the environment, exerting a detrimental impact on plant growth. Thus, it is important to study Sb effects on plants under the current and future CO2 (eCO2).

Methods

To this end, high Sb concentrations (1500 mg/kg soil) effects under ambient (420 ppm) and eCO2 (710 ppm) on wheat growth, physiology (photosynthesis reactions) and biochemistry (minerals contents, redox state), were studied and soil microbial were evaluated.

Results and discussion

Our results showed that Sb uptake significantly decreased wheat growth by 42%. This reduction could be explained by the inhibition in photosynthesis rate, Rubisco activity, and photosynthetic pigments (Cha and Chb), by 35%, 44%, and 51%, respectively. Sb significantly reduced total bacterial and fungal count and increased phenolic and organic acids levels in the soil to decrease Sb uptake. Moreover, it induced oxidative markers, as indicated by the increased levels of H2O2 and MDA (1.96 and 2.8-fold compared to the control condition, respectively). To reduce this damage, antioxidant capacity (TAC), CAT, POX, and SOD enzymes activity were increased by 1.61, 2.2, 2.87, and 1.86-fold, respectively. In contrast, eCO2 mitigated growth inhibition in Sb-treated wheat. eCO2 and Sb coapplication mitigated the Sb harmful effect on growth by reducing Sb uptake and improving photosynthesis and Rubisco enzyme activity by 0.58, 1.57, and 1.4-fold compared to the corresponding Sb treatments, respectively. To reduce Sb uptake and improve mineral availability for plants, a high accumulation of phenolics level and organic acids in the soil was observed. eCO2 reduces Sb-induced oxidative damage by improving redox status. In conclusion, our study has provided valuable insights into the physiological and biochemical bases underlie the Sb-stress mitigating of eCO2 conditions. Furthermore, this is important step to define strategies to prevent its adverse effects of Sb on plants in the future.

Low-Temperature Vacuum Drying on Broccoli: Enhanced Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Proliferative Properties Regarding Other Drying Methods

Low-temperature vacuum drying (LTVD) has shown great potential for drying vegetables. It could avoid excessive degradations of active compounds with potential therapeutic agents. In this study, the effect on several relevant bioactive compounds, anti-inflammatory activity, and anti-proliferative activity of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) were evaluated. Effects of other drying methods, including vacuum drying (VD), convective drying (CD), infrared drying (IRD), and freeze drying (FD), were also comparatively evaluated. The results of all dried samples showed high polyunsaturated fatty acid contents (of up to 71.3%) and essential amino acid contents (of up to 8.63%). The LTVD method stands out above the other drying methods, since it obtained the highest content of total phenols, chlorogenic acid, and ferulic acid. Both the LTVD and CD samples demonstrated high anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activities. These CD and LTVD samples were also the most active against the breast carcinoma MDA-MB-23 cell line. Due to the good retention of bioactive compounds via LTVD, the obtained dried broccoli here can be used in a near time as an ingredient for the development of novel natural products with anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects.

Synergistic Impacts of Plant-Growth-Promoting Bacteria and Selenium Nanoparticles on Improving the Nutritional Value and Biological Activities of Three Cultivars of Brassica Sprouts

Due to the growing world population and increasing environmental stress, improving the production, nutritional quality, and pharmaceutical applications of plants have become an urgent need. Therefore, current research was designed to investigate the impact of seed priming using plant-growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) along with selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) treatment on chemical and biological properties of three Brassica oleracea cultivars [Southern star (VA1), Prominence (VA2), Monotop (VA3)]. With this aim, one out of five morphologically different strains of bacteria, namely, JM18, which was further identified via 16S rRNA gene sequencing as a Nocardiopsis species with strong plant-growth-promoting traits, isolated from soil, was used. To explore the growth-promoting potential of Nocardiopsis species, seeds of three varieties of B. oleracea were primed with JM18 individually or in combination with SeNP treatment. Seed treatments increased sprout growth (fresh and dry weights) and glucosinolate accumulation. The activity of myrosinase was significantly increased through brassica sprouts and consequently enhanced the amino-acid-derived glucosinolate induction. Notably, a reduction in effective sulforaphane nitrile was detected, being positively correlated with a decrease in epithiospecifier protein (EP). Consequently, the antioxidant activities of VA2 and VA3, determined by the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, were increased by 74 and 79%, respectively. Additionally, the antibacterial activities of JM18-treated cultivars were improved. However, a decrease was observed in SeNP- and JM18 + SeNP-treated VA2 and VA3 against Serratia marcescens and Candida glabrata and VA1 against S. marcescens. In conclusion, seed priming with the JM18 extract is a promising method to enhance the health-promoting activities of B. oleracea sprouts.

Comprehensive insight into an amino acid metabolic network in postharvest horticultural products: a review

Amino acid (AA) metabolism plays a vital role in the central metabolism of plants. In addition to protein biosynthesis, AAs are involved in secondary metabolite biosynthesis, signal transduction, stress response, defense against pathogens, flavor formation, and so on. Besides these functions, AAs can be degraded into precursors or intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid cycle to substitute respiratory substrates and restore energy homeostasis, as well as directly acting as signal molecules or be involved in the regulation of plant signals to delay senescence of postharvest horticultural products (PHPs). AA metabolism and its role in plants growth have been clarified; however, only a few studies about their roles exist concerning the postharvest preservation of fruit and vegetables. This study reviews the potential functions of various AAs by comparing the difference in AA metabolism at the postharvest stage and then discusses the crosstalk of AA metabolism and energy metabolism, the target of rapamycin/sucrose nonfermenting-related kinase 1 signaling and secondary metabolism. Finally, the roles and effect mechanism of several exogenous AAs in the preservation of PHPs are highlighted. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the AA metabolism network in PHPs. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Systematic Review on the Metabolic Interest of Glucosinolates and Their Bioactive Derivatives for Human Health

In the last decade, most of the evidence on the clinical benefits of including cruciferous foods in the diet has been focused on the content of glucosinolates (GSL) and their corresponding isothiocyanates (ITC), and mercapturic acid pathway metabolites, based on their capacity to modulate clinical, biochemical, and molecular parameters. The present systematic review summarizes findings of human studies regarding the metabolism and bioavailability of GSL and ITC, providing a comprehensive analysis that will help guide future research studies and facilitate the consultation of the latest advances in this booming and less profusely researched area of GSL for food and health. The literature search was carried out in Scopus, PubMed and the Web of Science, under the criteria of including publications centered on human subjects and the use of Brassicaceae foods in different formulations (including extracts, beverages, and tablets), as significant sources of bioactive compounds, in different types of subjects, and against certain diseases. Twenty-eight human intervention studies met inclusion criteria, which were classified into three groups depending on the dietary source. This review summarizes recent studies that provided interesting contributions, but also uncovered the many potential venues for future research on the benefits of consuming cruciferous foods in our health and well-being. The research will continue to support the inclusion of GSL-rich foods and products for multiple preventive and active programs in nutrition and well-being.

Salt-Affected Rocket Plants as a Possible Source of Glucosinolates

Soil salinity can have various negative consequences on agricultural products, from their quality and production to their aesthetic traits. In this work, the possibility to use salt-affected vegetables, that otherwise would be discarded, as a source of nutraceuticals was explored. To this aim, rocket plants, a vegetable featuring bioactive compounds such as glucosinolates, were exposed to increasing NaCl concentrations in hydroponics and analysed for their content in bioactive compounds. Salt levels higher than 68 mM produced rocket plants that did not comply with European Union regulations and would therefore be considered a waste product. Anyway, our findings, obtained by Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry, demonstrated a significant increase in glucosinolates levels in such salt-affected plants. opening the opportunity for a second life of these market discarded products to be recycled as glucosinolates source. Furthermore, an optimal situation was found at NaCl 34 mM in which not only were the aesthetic traits of rocket plants not affected, but also the plants revealed a significant enrichment in glucosinolates. This can be considered an advantageous situation in which the resulting vegetables still appealed to the market and showed improved nutraceutical aspects.

Formation, immunomodulatory activities, and enhancement of glucosinolates and sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts: a review for maximizing the health benefits to human

Broccoli sprouts have been considered as functional foods which have received increasing attention because they have been highly prized for glucosinolates, phenolics, and vitamins in particular glucosinolates. One of hydrolysates-sulforaphane from glucoraphanin is positively associated with the attenuation of inflammatory, which could reduce diabetes, cardiovascular and cancer risk. In recent decades, the great interest in natural bioactive components especially for sulforaphane promotes numerous researchers to investigate the methods to enhance glucoraphanin levels in broccoli sprouts and evaluate the immunomodulatory activities of sulforaphane. Therefore, glucosinolates profiles are different in broccoli sprouts varied with genotypes and inducers. Physicochemical, biological elicitors, and storage conditions were widely studied to promote the accumulation of glucosinolates and sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts. These inducers would stimulate the biosynthesis pathway gene expression and enzyme activities of glucosinolates and sulforaphane to increase the concentration in broccoli sprouts. The immunomodulatory activity of sulforaphane was summarized to be a new therapy for diseases with immune dysregulation. The perspective of this review served as a potential reference for customers and industries by application of broccoli sprouts as a functional food and clinical medicine.

Stress induced production of plant secondary metabolites in vegetables: Functional approach for designing next generation super foods

Plant secondary metabolites are vital for human health leading to the gain the access to natural products. The quality of crops is the result of the interaction of different biotic and abiotic factors. Abiotic stresses during plant growth may reduce the crop performance and quality of the produce. However, abiotic stresses can result in numerous physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses in plants, aiming to deal with these conditions. Abiotic stresses are also elicitors of the biosynthesis of plant secondary metabolites in plants which possess plant defense mechanisms as well as human health benefits such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidative properties etc. Plants either synthesize new compounds or alter the concentration of bioactive compounds. Due to increasing attention towards the production of bioactive compounds, the understanding of crop responses to abiotic stresses in relation to the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds is critical. Plants alter their metabolism at the genetic level in response to different abiotic stresses resulting the changes in secondary metabolite production. Transcriptional factors regulate genes responsible for secondary metabolite biosynthesis in several plants under stress conditions. Understanding the signaling pathways involved in the secondary metabolite biosynthesis has become easy with the use of molecular biology. Therefore, aim of writing the review is to focus on secondary metabolite production in vegetable crops, their health benefits and transcription regulation under various abiotic stresses.

Supplementation of cooked broccoli with exogenous moringa myrosinase enhanced isothiocyanate formation

Brassica vegetables, especially broccoli, have health benefits such as anticancer activity, which are attributed to isothiocyanate (ITC), products of glucosinolate hydrolysis. This study aimed to explore the effect of cooking time and addition of exogenous myrosinase (MYR) from moringa seeds on the yield of ITCs. The results showed that raw broccoli produced a significantly high amount of ITCs, which decreased by almost 40% after microwaving the broccoli for 1 min. Introducing exogenous MYR by adding ground moringa seeds to cooked broccoli caused a notable increase in ITC of 38%. At pH 4.0-6.0, MYR showed optimal activity, and the thermal stability of MYR from moringa seeds was better than that from broccoli. The kinetic parameters indicated that MYR from moringa seeds had a higher affinity to sinigrin than that from broccoli seeds. This study was novel in reporting that adding ground moringa seeds to cooked broccoli enhanced ITC formation.

Oil matrix modulates the bioaccessibility of polyphenols: a study of salad dressing formulation with industrial broccoli by-products and lemon juice

BACKGROUND

The potential health-promoting effects of polyphenols depend considerably on their bioaccessibility, which is affected by the presence of other nutrients in the diet, including lipids. In this study, several salad dressing formulations were prepared using industrial broccoli by-product powder (BBP), lemon juice (LJ), and three different sources of oils (olive oil, hazelnut oil and sunflower oil) to both valorize polyphenol-rich industrial discards and also to investigate polyphenol bioaccessibility. The changes in the bioaccessibility of polyphenols from BBP and LJ were determined using the standardized in vitro digestion model.

RESULTS

Four groups of polyphenols (hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonols, flavones, and flavonones) were detected in BBP and LJ. The bioaccessibility of hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonols from BBP increased significantly in the presence of LJ and oils (0.3- to 5.8-fold), whereas there was no significant difference between formulations containing different oil types. On the other hand, the bioaccessibility of phenolic acids from LJ did not change notably after co-ingestion with BBP and oils, whereas flavonoids, including vicenin-2 and hesperidin, were found to be significantly more bioaccessible when LJ was co-ingested with BBP and oils (0.8- to 1.4-fold) (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Overall, the current study highlighted that the bioaccessibility of polyphenols from BBP and LJ was modulated in the presence of an oil matrix. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

An origami paper-based electrochemical biosensing platform for quality control of agri-food waste in the valorization strategy

The increasing demand for food and the need for a sustainability vision in the agri-food sector have boosted novel approaches for food management, enhancing the valorization of wastes and by-products belonging to the food industry. Herein, we present a novel paper-based origami device to assess the amount of both glucosinolate and glucose in a food waste product belonging to Brassicaceae plants, to evaluate the quality value and the correct management of waste samples. The device has been designed as an origami paper-based platform constituted of two paper-based biosensors to work synergistically in a multiplexed detection. In detail, a monoenzymatic biosensor and a bienzymatic biosensor were configured for the detection of glucose and glucosinolates, respectively, using filter paper pads preloaded with glucose oxidase and/or myrosinase. To complete the paper-based platform, the enzyme-preloaded pads were combined with office paper-based electrodes modified with Carbon black/Prussian Blue nanoparticles for the measurement of enzymatic by-product at a low applied potential (i.e., 0 V versus Ag/AgCl). Overall, this paper-based platform measured glucose and glucosinolate (i.e., sinigrin) with a linear range up to 2.5 and 1.5 mM, and detection limits of 0.05 and 0.07 mM, respectively. The repeatability corresponded to an RSD% equal to 5% by testing 10 mM of glucose, and 10% by testing 1 mM of sinigrin. The accuracy of the developed multiplex device was evaluated by recovery studies at two different levels of sinigrin, i.e., 0.25 and 0.5 mM, obtaining recoveries values equal to (111 ± 3) % and (86 ± 1) %, respectively. The multiplex detection of both glucose and glucosinolate in Brassicaceae samples evaluates the quality values of the waste sample, ensuring the quality of the re-used food product waste by using an eco-designed analytical tool. The combination of paper-based devices for quality control of food waste with the re-use of these food products represents a sustainable approach that perfectly matches sustainable agrifood practices as well as the overall approach of the circular economy.

Insights into the Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-SARS-CoV-2 and Cytotoxic Activities of Pistacia lentiscus Bark and Phytochemical Profile; In Silico and In Vitro Study

Foodborne infections and antibiotic resistance pose a serious threat to public health and must be addressed urgently. Pistacia lentiscus is a wild-growing shrub and has been utilized for medicinal applications as well as for culinary purposes. The antibacterial and antioxidant activities of P. lentiscus bark in vitro, as well as the phytochemical composition, are the focus of this inquiry. The bark extract of P. lentiscus showed significant antimicrobial activity in experiments on bacteria and yeast isolated from human and food sources. The exposure time for the complete inhibition of cell viability of P. aeruginosa in the extracts was found to be 5% at 15 min. Phytochemical inquiry of the methanol extract demonstrates the existence of carbohydrates, flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, triterpenes, and alkaloids. Deep phytochemical exploration led to the identification of methyl gallate, gallic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, kaempferol 3-O-α-rhamnoside, kaempferol 3-O-β-glucoside, and Quercetin-3-O-β-glucoside. When tested using the DPPH assay, the methanol extracts of P. lentiscus bark demonstrated a high free radical scavenging efficiency. Further, we have performed a molecular modelling study which revealed that the extract of P. lentiscus bark could be a beneficial source for novel flavonoid glycosides inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Taken together, this study highlights the Pistacia lentiscus bark methanol extract as a promising antimicrobial and antiviral agent.

Effects of Plant Hormones, Metal Ions, Salinity, Sugar, and Chemicals Pollution on Glucosinolate Biosynthesis in Cruciferous Plant

Cruciferous vegetable crops are grown widely around the world, which supply a multitude of health-related micronutrients, phytochemicals, and antioxidant compounds. Glucosinolates (GSLs) are specialized metabolites found widely in cruciferous vegetables, which are not only related to flavor formation but also have anti-cancer, disease-resistance, and insect-resistance properties. The content and components of GSLs in the Cruciferae are not only related to genotypes and environmental factors but also are influenced by hormones, plant growth regulators, and mineral elements. This review discusses the effects of different exogenous substances on the GSL content and composition, and analyzes the molecular mechanism by which these substances regulate the biosynthesis of GSLs. Based on the current research status, future research directions are also proposed.

Transcriptome analysis of melatonin regulating the transformation of glucoraphanin to sulforaphane in broccoli hairy roots

Sulforaphane (SF) is one of the most effective natural products in preventing and fighting cancer, found in cruciferous plants. In this study, broccoli hairy roots grown for 20 d were used as the experimental material, and it was treated with 500 μmol/L melatonin (MT) for 0, 12 and 32 h to explore the effect of MT on the conversion of glucoraphanin (GRA) to SF. Results showed that the yields of GRA and SF were the largest under MT treatment for 12 h, which were 1.53 and 1.93-fold, respectively, compared to 0 h. However, Myrosinases activity was the highest under MT treatment for 32 h, which was 1.42-fold compared to that of the 0 h. The differential expression of key genes involved in GRA conversion to SF in broccoli hairy roots was identified transcriptome sequencing, and the path of the transformation from GRA to SF was simulated, which provided a theoretical basis for establishing an efficient transformation system from GRA to SF.

Effect of Elevated CO2 on Biomolecules' Accumulation in Caraway (Carum carvi L.) Plants at Different Developmental Stages

Caraway plants have been known as a rich source of phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, monoterpenoid glucosides and alkaloids. In this regard, the application of elevated CO₂ (eCO₂) as a bio-enhancer for increasing plant growth and phytochemical content has been the focus of many studies; however, the interaction between eCO₂ and plants at different developmental stages has not been extensively explored. Thus, the present study aimed at investigating the changes in growth, photosynthesis and phytochemicals of caraway plants at two developmental stages (sprouts and mature tissues) under control and increased CO₂ conditions (ambient CO₂ (a CO₂, 400 ± 27 μmol CO₂ mol^-1 air) and eCO₂, 620 ± 42 μmol CO₂ mol^-1 air ppm). Moreover, we evaluated the impact of eCO₂-induced changes in plant metabolites on the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of caraway sprouts and mature plants. CO₂ enrichment increased photosynthesis and biomass accumulation of both caraway stages. Regarding their phytochemical contents, caraway plants interacted differently with eCO₂, depending on their developmental stages. High levels of CO₂ enhanced the production of total nutrients, i.e., carbohydrates, proteins, fats and crude fibers, as well as organic and amino acids, in an equal pattern in both caraway sprouts and mature plants. Interestingly, the eCO₂-induced effect on minerals, vitamins and phenolics was more pronounced in caraway sprouts than the mature tissues. Furthermore, the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of caraway plants were enhanced under eCO₂ treatment, particularly at the mature stage. Overall, eCO₂ provoked changes in the phytochemical contents of caraway plants, particularly at the sprouting stage and, hence, improved their nutritive and health-promoting properties.

Effect of Elevated CO2 on Seed Yield, Essential Oil Metabolism, Nutritive Value, and Biological Activity of Pimpinella anisum L. Accessions at Different Seed Maturity Stages

Simple Summary

This study was conducted to investigate whether the positive impact of elevated CO₂ (eCO₂) on the chemical composition of aniseed (Pimpinella anisum L.) seeds is dependent on seed developmental stages and origin. To this end, we investigated the biochemical changes in eCO₂-treated aniseed accessions from Tunisia, Syria, Turkey, Morocco, Yemen, and Egypt during three developmental stages (immature, premature, and mature). The highest dry weight percentages and seed yields were recorded for the Egypt and Morocco accessions. eCO₂ has inducing properties on the nutritive and biological values of aniseeds, yet its effectiveness is related to seed maturity and provenances. For instance, seed maturation increased the nutrients and antioxidant metabolites in most eCO₂-treated accessions. Conversely, essential oil metabolism was decreased by seed maturation but this effect was significantly reduced by the use of eCO₂. The enhanced accumulation of bioactive compounds in eCO₂-treated seeds was accompanied by improved health benefits. In this regard, eCO₂ induces the antioxidant and hypocholesterolemic activities of aniseeds, particularly at mature stages. Thus, the present study confirms that there are significant interactions between eCO₂ exposure, aniseed maturity, and origin on the chemical composition and pharmaceutical properties of aniseed.

Abstract

Besides the lack of studies regarding applying elevated CO₂ (eCO₂) as a strategy to improve the chemical composition of anise (Pimpinella anisum L.) seeds, studies on its interaction with seed developmental stages and origin are very limited. The seed yield, chemical composition, and biological activity of 6 aniseed accessions (Egypt, Tunisia, Syria, Turkey, Yemen, and Morocco) were investigated during three developmental stages (immature, premature, and mature) under control and elevated CO₂ conditions. Mature seeds from all aniseed accessions had significantly higher (p < 0.05) dry weight (DW) percentages than premature and immature seeds. The highest DW percentages were recorded in Egypt and Morocco accessions. Seed maturation increased nutrients and antioxidant metabolites in most eCO₂-treated accessions. In contrast, essential oils were decreased by seed maturation, while eCO₂ reversed this effect. Essential oil-related precursors (e.g., phenylalanine) and enzyme activities (3-Deoxy-d-arabino-heptulosonate-7-phosphate synthase (DAHPS) and O–methyltransferase) decreased with seed maturity. However, high CO₂ reduced this impact and further induced the other essential oil-related precursors (shikimic and cinnamic acids). Consequently, eCO₂ provoked changes in the antioxidant and hypocholesterolemic activities of aniseeds, particularly at mature stages. Overall, eCO₂ application, as an efficient way to improve aniseed growth, essential oil metabolism, and chemical composition, was affected by seed maturation and origin. Future studies of eCO₂-treated aniseeds as a nutraceutical and pharmaceutical product are suggested.

Integrative Network Pharmacology of Moringa oleifera Combined with Gemcitabine against Pancreatic Cancer

Gemcitabine (GEM) is the first-line chemotherapy drug for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Moringa oleifera (MO) exhibited various biological activities, including anticancer effects. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of their combination against pancreatic cancer has not yet been explored. This study evaluates the effect of MO and GEM against pancreatic cancer through network pharmacology. TCMSP, TCMID, and PubMed were used to identify and screen MO bioactive compounds. MO and GEM genes were predicted through DGIdb, CTD, and DrugBank. Pancreatic cancer genes were retrieved from OMIM and MalaCards. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) and compound-target-pathway network were established via STRING and Cytoscape. Gene ontology (GO) and pathway enrichment analysis were conducted using DAVID Bioinformatic Tools. Catechin, kaempferol, quercetin, and epicatechin that met the drug screening requirements, and three additional compounds, glucomoringin, glucoraphanin, and moringinine, were identified as bioactive compounds in MO. Catechin was found to be the main hub compound in MO. TP53, AKT1, VEGFA, and CCND1 from PPI network were discovered as hub genes to have biological importance in pancreatic cancer. GO and pathway analysis revealed that MO and GEM combination was mainly associated with cancer, including pancreatic cancer, through regulation of apoptosis. Combination therapy between MO and GEM might provide insight in pancreatic cancer treatment.

Factors Influencing Sulforaphane Content in Broccoli Sprouts and Subsequent Sulforaphane Extraction

Broccoli sprouts contain 10–100 times higher levels of sulforaphane than mature plants, something that has been well known since 1997. Sulforaphane has a whole range of unique biological properties, and it is especially an inducer of phase 2 detoxication enzymes. Therefore, its use has been intensively studied in the field of health and nutrition. The formation of sulforaphane is controlled by the epithiospecifier protein, a myrosinase co-factor, which is temperature-specific. This paper studies the influence of temperature, heating time, the addition of myrosinase in the form of Raphanus sativus sprouts in constant ratio to broccoli sprouts, and other technological steps on the final sulforaphane content in broccoli sprout homogenates. These technological steps are very important for preserving sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts, but there are some limitations concerning the amount of sulforaphane. We focused, therefore, on the extraction process, using suitable β-cyclodextrin, hexane and ethanol, with the goal of increasing the amount of sulforaphane in the final extract, thus stabilizing it and reducing the required amount sulforaphane needed, e.g., as a dietary supplement.

Lepidium sativum Sprouts Grown under Elevated CO2 Hyperaccumulate Glucosinolates and Antioxidants and Exhibit Enhanced Biological and Reduced Antinutritional Properties

The nutritional and health-promoting properties of plants are largely determined by their tissue chemistry. Tuning growth conditions could affect the accumulation of phytochemicals and, therefore, enhance the biological activities. Herein, the impact of elevated CO₂ (eCO₂; 620 µmol CO₂ mol⁻¹ air) on growth and chemical composition of sprouts of three Lepidium sativum cultivars (Haraz, Khider and Rajab) was investigated. Changes in the sprout actions against some human chronic diseases were evaluated. eCO₂ induced biomass accumulation (1.46-, 1.47- and 2-fold in Haraz, Khider and Rajab, respectively) and pigment accumulation and reduced the level of antinutrients in L. sativum cultivars. Compared to the control, eCO₂ induced total glucosinolate accumulation (0.40-, 0.90- and 1.29-fold in Khider, Haraz and Rajab, respectively), possibly through increased amino acid production, and their hydrolysis by myrosinase. In line with increased polyphenol production, improved phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity was observed. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemic, antibacterial and anticancer activities of the produced sprouts were significantly improved by sprouting and eCO₂ exposure. PCA indicated that the cultivars showed interspecific responses. Thus, the present study confirms the synergistic effect of sprouting with eCO₂ exposure as a promising approach to produce more bioactive L. sativum sprouts.

Delineating the mechanisms of elevated CO2 mediated growth, stress tolerance and phytohormonal regulation in plants

Global climate change has drastically affected natural ecosystems and crop productivity. Among several factors of global climate change, CO₂ is considered to be the dynamic parameter that will regulate the responses of all biological system on earth in the coming decade. A number of experimental studies in the past have demonstrated the positive effects of elevated CO₂ on photosynthesis, growth and biomass, biochemical and physiological processes such as increased C:N ratio, secondary metabolite production, as well as phytohormone concentrations. On the other hand, elevated CO₂ imparts an adverse effect on the nutritional quality of crop plants and seed quality. Investigations have also revealed effects of elevated CO₂ both at cellular and molecular level altering expression of various genes involved in various metabolic processes and stress signaling pathways. Elevated CO₂ is known to have mitigating effect on plants in presence of abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, temperature etc., while contrasting effects in the presence of different biotic agents i.e. phytopathogens, insects and herbivores. However, a well-defined crosstalk is incited by elevated CO₂ both under abiotic and biotic stresses in terms of phytohormones concentration and secondary metabolites production. With this background, the present review attempts to shed light on the major effects of elevated CO₂ on plant growth, physiological and molecular responses and will highlight the interactive effects of elevated CO₂ with other abiotic and biotic factors. The article will also provide deep insights into the phytohormones modulation under elevated CO₂.

Effect of Laser Light on Growth, Physiology, Accumulation of Phytochemicals, and Biological Activities of Sprouts of Three Brassica Cultivars

Brassica sprouts are known as a good source of antimicrobial bioactive compounds such as phenolics and glucosinolates (GLs). We aim at understanding how He-Ne laser light treatment (632 nm, 5 mW) improves sprout growth and physiology and stimulates the accumulation of bioactive metabolites in three Brassica spp., i.e., mustard, cauliflower, and turnip. Moreover, how these changes consequently promote their biological activities. Laser light improved growth, photosynthesis, and respiration, which induced the accumulation of primary and secondary metabolites. Laser light boosted the levels of pigments, phenolics, and indole and aromatic precursors of GLs, which resulted in increased total GLs and glucoraphanin contents. Moreover, laser light induced the myrosinase activity to provoke GLs hydrolysis to bioactive sulforaphane. Interestingly, laser light also reduced the anti-nutrient content and enhanced the overall biological activities of treated sprouts including antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. Accordingly, laser light is a promising approach for boosting the accumulation of beneficial metabolites in Brassica sprouts and, subsequently, their biological activities.

Elevated CO2 improves the nutritive value, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hypocholestecolemic activities of lemongrass sprouts

Sprouts have been regarded as a big store for bioactive compounds with a wide range of biological activities. Elevated CO2 (eCO2, 620 μmol mol-1)was employed to enhance the nutritive and health promoting values of sprouts of two species of lemongrass, i.e. Cymbopogon citratus and Cymbopogon proximus. eCO2 improved the biomass production of sprouts, and their levels of primary metabolites e.g., amino acids and oils and active secondary metabolites e.g., phenolic compounds. As a result, eCO2 increased total antioxidant capacity, cytotoxicity against several human cancer cell lines, and antibacterial activities of Cymbopogon sprouts. We also recorded a significant increase in hypocholesterolaemic potential and anti-inflammatory activities of eCO2-treated sprouts, as indicated by inhibition of cholesterol micellar solubility and pancreatic lipase activity, as well as lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase activities, respectively. Thus, the present investigation supports the use of eCO2 as a promising approach to produce lemongrass sprouts with effective phytochemicals and enhanced biological activities.

Bioactive Potential of Several Actinobacteria Isolated from Microbiologically Barely Explored Desert Habitat, Saudi Arabia

Simple Summary

Bioactive natural products have been regarded as promising tools for treatment of various ailments. Among natural sources, actinomycetes have been widely explored for their potential bioactivity. In this regard, the present study has focused on the phytochemical content and biological activities of several actinobacteria isolates, which were investigated for their phenolic and flavonoid content, as well as their antioxidant, antibacterial and antiprotozoal activities. The most active isolates were further investigated for their antileukemic activity, where such isolates were shown to exert cytotoxic activity against the tested cell lines, following a mechanism that might be due to the ability of the active isolate extracts to reduce cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase activities. Overall, isolation and characterization of the active molecule from the potential actinomycetes strains will pave the way for the development of drugs against human diseases such as blood cancer.

Abstract

Biomolecules from natural sources, including microbes, have been the basis of treatment of human diseases since the ancient times. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential bioactivity of several actinobacteria isolates form Al-Jouf Desert, Saudi Arabia. Twenty-one actinobacterial isolates were tested for their antioxidant (flavonoids, phenolics, tocopherols and carotenoids) content, and biological activities, namely FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, SOS and XO inhibition, anti-hemolytic and anti-lipid peroxidation as well as their antibacterial and antiprotozoal activities. Accordingly, five isolates (i.e., Act 2, 12, 15, 19 and 21) were selected and their 90% ethanolic extracts were used. The phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA sequences indicated that the most active isolates belong to genus Streptomyces. The genus Streptomyces has been documented as a prolific producer of biologically active secondary metabolites against different cancer types. Thus, the anti-blood cancer activity and the possible molecular mechanisms by which several Streptomyces species extracts inhibited the growth of different leukemia cells, i.e., HL-60, K562 and THP-1, were investigated. In general, the five active isolates showed cytotoxic activity against the tested cell lines in a dose dependent manner. Among the potent isolates, isolate Act 12 significantly decreased the cell viability and showed maximum cytotoxic activities against both HL-60 and K562 cells, while isolate Act 15 exhibited maximum cytotoxic activity against THP-1 cells. Moreover, Act 2 and Act 12 reduced cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX) activity, which is involved in the proliferation and differentiation of cancer cells and may represent a possible molecular mechanism underlying leukemia growth inhibition. The bioactive antioxidant extracts of the selected Streptomyces species inhibited leukemia cell growth by reducing the COX-2 and LOX activity. Overall, our study not only introduced a promising natural alternative source for anticancer agents, but it also sheds light on the mechanism underlying the anticancer activity of isolated actinomycetes.

Laser light as a promising approach to improve the nutritional value, antioxidant capacity and anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoid-rich buckwheat sprouts

Buckwheat sprouts are rich in several nutrients such as antioxidant flavonoids that have a positive impact on human health. Although there are several studies reported the positive impact of laser light on crop plants, no studies have applied laser light to enhance the nutritive values of buckwheat sprouts. Herein, the contents of health-promoting minerals, metabolites and enzymes as well as the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were determined in laser-treated (He-Ne laser, 632 nm, 5 mW) common buckwheat (CBW) and tartarybuckwheat (TBW) sprouts. Out of 49 targeted minerals, vitamins, pigments and antioxidants, more than 35 parameters were significantly increased in CBW and/or TBW sprouts by laser light treatment. Also, laser light boosted the antioxidant capacity and anti-inflammatory activities through inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 and lipoxygenase activities, particularly in TBW sprouts. Accordingly, laser light could be recommended as a promising method to improve the nutritional and health-promoting values of buckwheat sprouts.

Phytochemical and Biological Activity Studies on Nasturtium officinale (Watercress) Microshoot Cultures Grown in RITA® Temporary Immersion Systems

The main compounds in both extracts were gluconasturtiin, 4-methoxyglucobrassicin and rutoside, the amounts of which were, respectively, determined as 182.93, 58.86 and 23.24 mg/100 g dry weight (DW) in biomass extracts and 640.94, 23.47 and 7.20 mg/100 g DW in plant herb extracts. The antioxidant potential of all the studied extracts evaluated using CUPRAC (CUPric Reducing Antioxidant Activity), FRAP (Ferric Reducing Ability of Plasma), and DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) assays was comparable. The anti-inflammatory activity of the extracts was tested based on the inhibition of 15-lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase-1, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and phospholipase A₂. The results demonstrate significantly higher inhibition of COX-2 for in vitro cultured biomass compared with the herb extracts (75.4 and 41.1%, respectively). Moreover, all the studied extracts showed almost similar antibacterial and antifungal potential. Based on these findings, and due to the fact that the growth of in vitro microshoots is independent of environmental conditions and unaffected by environmental pollution, we propose that biomass that can be rapidly grown in RITA^® bioreactors can serve as an alternative source of bioactive compounds with valuable biological properties.

Influence of elevated CO2 on nutritive value and health-promoting prospective of three genotypes of Alfalfa sprouts (Medicago Sativa)

Alfalfa sprouts are well known for their nutritive values. Although there are several studies reported the positive impact of elevated CO₂ (eCO₂) on plants, there are no in-depth, comprehensive studies on how eCO₂ could improve the sprouting of plant seeds. Herein, the production of health-promoting metabolites was determined in eCO₂ (620 ppm)-treated Alfalfa sprout cultivars (Giza 1, Nubaria and Ismailia 1). eCO₂ increased the photosynthetic process and pigment contents, which consequently induced carbohydrates, proteins, fats and fiber accumulation. eCO₂ also boosted the levels of vitamins, phenolics, flavonoids and mineral individuals and enhanced the antioxidant capacity of alfalfa sprouts. Interestingly, eCO₂ reduced the antinutritional factor l-canavanine content in Ismailia 1 cultivar and improved the anti-inflammatory activities through inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 and lipoxygenase activity. Therefore, eCO₂ is a promising approach to improve the health-promoting prospective of alfalfa sprouts to be a valuable source of nutritious and bioactive compounds in our daily diet.