Development of novel functional snacks containing nano-encapsulated resveratrol with anti-diabetic, anti-obesity and antioxidant properties

Zein Nanoparticles Loaded with Vitis vinifera L. Grape Pomace Extract: Synthesis and Characterization

This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of zein nanoparticles (ZNp) loaded with grape pomace extract (GPE) from Vitis vinifera L. for applications in controlled release and antioxidant delivery. Grape pomace, a byproduct of the winemaking industry, is rich in bioactive compounds, including phenols and flavonoids, which possess antioxidant properties. To overcome the limitations of these compounds, such as photosensitivity and thermal degradation, they were incorporated into zein nanoparticles using the antisolvent technique. The physicochemical properties of the ZNp-GPE system were thoroughly characterized, including size, morphology, ζ-potential, and total phenol content. Results showed high encapsulation efficiency (89-97%) and favorable loading capacities. Characterization techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and dynamic light scattering (DLS), confirmed that GPE was successfully incorporated into the nanoparticles, thereby enhancing their antioxidant properties. The encapsulation process did not significantly alter the spherical morphology of the nanoparticles, and loading GPE resulted in a decrease in particle size. Total phenol content analysis showed that the ZNp-GPE nanoparticles effectively retained these compounds, confirming their potential as efficient delivery systems for antioxidants. This approach not only provides a method for protecting and enhancing the bioavailability of natural antioxidants but also contributes to the valorization of agricultural waste, promoting sustainability in bio-based industries.

Nano-reduction of whey protein using ultra-sonication as a novel approach to improve its applicability in food industry

The present study was carried to evaluate the effect of size reduction using ultrasonication on functionality and bioactivity of whey protein isolate (WPI). The results showed that ultrasonication was able to reduce particle size of whey from 1.025 µm to 549 nm. The polydispersity index and zeta potential increased subsequently upon ultrasonication from 0.22 to 0.48 and -12 to -21 mV confirming narrow range of particle size distribution and enhanced colloidal stability. The SEM of non-treated whey showed dense spherical structure whereas upon ultrasonication the structure of protein granules changes to polygon. Size of granule was reduced and distortion in shape was observed. The ultrasonicated and native whey were characterized for functional properties viz. foaming, emulsifying, water and oil absorption capabilities. The solubility and hydrophobicity of whey before and after ultrasonication were determined. The WPI had higher hydrophobicity than ultrasonicated WPI which could be owed to the protein unfolding due to acoustic cavitation effect of ultrasonication. Water and oil absorption capacity of WPI were also affected by ultrasonication, water absorption capacity was decreased whereas oil absorption capacity was increased upon ultrasonication. The nutraceutical properties of WPI viz. antioxidant, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antilipidemic, and antiproliferative activities were also found to increase significantly upon ultrasonication. Overall the study suggests that nanoreduction is a novel approach to improve the applicability of WPI in the emerging functional food industry as the ultra-sonication was profusely able to tailor the functionality and physiological implications of WPI.

Effect of chickpea on the physicochemical, nutritional, antioxidant, and organoleptic characterization of corn extrudates

BACKGROUND

Ready-to-eat snacks are very popular. However, they have a high glycemic index and lack proteins & micronutrients. This study prepared protein-enriched corn extrudates by adding chickpea grit supplements at varying concentrations (0-100 g kg-1).

RESULTS

The protein contents of 100 g kg-1 supplemented extrudates increased by 66.66% and dietary fiber contents increased by 48.02% in comparison with the control. Bulk density increased by 1.46 times. However, the expansion ratio, porosity, and water absorption index decreased significantly (P < 0.05). The health-promoting characteristics of the extrudates increased in comparison with the control sample, i.e., total phenolic content increasing by 17.84%, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) contents by 11.38%, and 2,2-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) content by 9.59%. Likewise, the potassium contents increased by 24.63% with the inclusion of 10% chickpea in corn extrudates. Sensory evaluation revealed that corn extrudates with up to 60 g kg-1 added chickpea achieved the highest acceptability among panelists.

CONCLUSION

The addition of chickpea produced corn extrudates with higher protein and mineral content, which could mitigate malnutrition. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Plant-Derived Anti-Cancer Therapeutics and Biopharmaceuticals

In spite of significant advancements in diagnosis and treatment, cancer remains one of the major threats to human health due to its ability to cause disease with high morbidity and mortality. A multifactorial and multitargeted approach is required towards intervention of the multitude of signaling pathways associated with carcinogenesis inclusive of angiogenesis and metastasis. In this context, plants provide an immense source of phytotherapeutics that show great promise as anticancer drugs. There is increasing epidemiological data indicating that diets rich in vegetables and fruits could decrease the risks of certain cancers. Several studies have proved that natural plant polyphenols, such as flavonoids, lignans, phenolic acids, alkaloids, phenylpropanoids, isoprenoids, terpenes, and stilbenes, could be used in anticancer prophylaxis and therapeutics by recruitment of mechanisms inclusive of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and modulation of several molecular events associated with carcinogenesis. The current review discusses the anticancer activities of principal phytochemicals with focus on signaling circuits towards targeted cancer prophylaxis and therapy. Also addressed are plant-derived anti-cancer vaccines, nanoparticles, monoclonal antibodies, and immunotherapies. This review article brings to light the importance of plants and plant-based platforms as invaluable, low-cost sources of anti-cancer molecules of particular applicability in resource-poor developing countries.

Recent advances in encapsulation of resveratrol for enhanced delivery

Due to its numerous biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, anti-atherosclerosis, anti-aging, anti-osteoporosis, anti-obesity, estrogenic, neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects, resveratrol has attracted a lot of attention in the food and pharmaceutical industries as a promising bioactive. However, low solubility in aqueous media, limited bioavailability, and low stability of resveratrol in hostile environments limit its applications. The necessity for a summary of recent developments is highlighted by the growing body of research on resveratrol encapsulation as a means of overcoming the mentioned application constraints. This review highlights the present developments in resveratrol delivery techniques, including spray drying, liposomes, emulsions, and nanoencapsulation. Bioaccessibility, bioavailability, stability, and release of resveratrol from encapsulating matrices are discussed. Future research should focus on encapsulation approaches with high loading capacity, targeted delivery, and controlled release. In light of the growing interest in resveratrol and the increasing complexity of resveratrol-based formulations, review of current encapsulation methods is crucial to address existing limitations and pave the way for the development of next-generation delivery systems. This review discusses how the delivery systems with different structures and release mechanisms can unlock the full potential and benefits of resveratrol by enhancing its bioavailability and stability.

Bacterial cellulose nanofiber reinforced self-healing hydrogel to construct a theranostic platform of antibacterial and enhanced wound healing

In order to promote wound healing, self-healing hydrogels with moisturizing property are employed as wound dressing. In this study, bacterial cellulose nanofibers (BCN) with high mechanical strength are used as reinforcement to improve the mechanical properties of self-healing hydrogels. A multifunctional self-healing hydrogel has been constructed by incorporating natural biomass, including Ag hybrid bacterial cellulose nanofiber (Ag-BCN), resveratrol (Res), and carbon nanodots (CNDs). The results of in vitro experiments demonstrate that the mechanical strength of the hybrid hydrogel was increased by 6 times with the addition of Ag-BCN, which also offers excellent antibacterial efficiency (S. aureus 99.99 % and E. coli 99.68 %). The hydrogel with CNDs can observe the healing process of the crack in real time and realize the controlled release of Res through photothermal effect. Moreover, the results of animal model experiments indicate that the prepared hydrogel could reduce the infection of the wound, effectively shorten the progress of wound healing (from 21d to 14 d). All the results imply that the prepared hydrogel has great promise in the application of skin wound healing.

In-situ fabrication of resveratrol loaded sodium alginate coated silver nanoparticles for in vitro studies of mitochondrial-targeted anticancer treatment against MCF-7 cell lines

The study aims to improve the viability and stability of resveratrol by encapsulating metal-based biocompatible nanocarrier for mitochondrial-targeted delivery and breast cancer treatment. For this purpose, sodium alginate coated silver nanoparticles were synthesized by in-situ reduction of silver nitrate using sodium borohydride. The prepared nanoparticles and resveratrol-loaded nanoparticles were characterized by utilizing the following instruments including X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV visible spectroscopy, Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, Zeta potential. The dialysis method revealed increased resveratrol release in pH 5 phosphate buffer. The incorporation of resveratrol significantly stimulated the antioxidant activity of sodium alginate coated silver nanoparticles. MTT assay was employed to evaluate the biocompatibility and anticancer potential of developed sodium alginate coated silver nanoparticles and resveratrol-loaded nanoparticles with increasing concentrations against normal HaCaT and breast cancer MCF-7 cell lines respectively. Further, the apoptotic morphology of MCF-7 cells treated with sodium alginate coated nanoparticles and resveratrol loaded nanoparticles was evaluated by AO/EtBr staining and apoptosis was demonstrated in the form of green and red fluorescence. Mitochondrial staining with Mito-Tracker Red evaluated the targeted delivery of RES into mitochondria leading to apoptosis of cancer cells.

Recent advances in nanodelivery systems of resveratrol and their biomedical and food applications: a review

Resveratrol is a non-flavonoid polyphenolic compound with numerous functional properties, such as anticancer, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-obesity and more. However, resveratrol's poor solubility within aqueous media and low stability usually lead to compromised bioavailability, ultimately limiting its uptake and applications. Nanodelivery technologies have been studied intensively due to their potential in effectively improving resveratrol properties, thereby providing promising solutions for enhancing the bioavailability of resveratrol. Thus, this article aimed to review the recent advances of resveratrol nanodelivery systems, specifically on the types of nanodelivery systems, the corresponding preparation principles, advantages, as well as potential limitations associated. Meanwhile, studies have also found that coupled with nanodelivery systems, the functional properties of resveratrol could trigger apoptosis in cancer cells and inflammatory cells through various signaling pathways. Therefore, this article will also lead into discussions on the application aspects of resveratrol nanodelivery systems, emphasizing toward the fields of biomedical and food sciences. Potential pitfalls of resveratrol nanodelivery systems, such as issues with toxicity and target release, as well as outlooks regarding resveratrol nanodelivery systems are included in the Conclusion section, in the hope to provide insights for relevant future research.

Clinical applications and mechanism insights of natural flavonoids against type 2 diabetes mellitus

Diabetes is a complex disease that affects a large percentage of the world's population, and it is associated with several risk factors. Self-management poses a significant challenge, but natural sources have shown great potential in providing effective glucose reducing solutions. Flavonoids, a class of bioactive substances found in different natural sources including medicinal plants, have emerged as promising candidates in this regard. Indeed, several flavonoids, including apigenin, arbutin, catechins, and cyanidin, have demonstrated remarkable anti-diabetic properties. The clinical effectiveness of these flavonoids is linked to their potential to decrease blood glucose concentration and increase insulin concentration. Thus, the regulation of certain metabolic pathways such as glycolysis and neoglycogenesis has also been demonstrated. In vitro and in vivo investigations revealed different mechanisms of action related to flavonoid compounds at subcellular, cellular, and molecular levels. The main actions reside in the activation of glycolytic signaling pathways and the inhibition of signaling that promotes glucose synthesis and storage. In this review, we highlight the clinical efficiency of natural flavonoids as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying this effectiveness.

Fabrication and characterization of novel prolamin nanoparticle-filled starch gels incorporating resveratrol

This study aimed to improve the mechanical properties of wheat starch gels (WSG) and the stability and bioaccessibility of resveratrol (Res) in prolamin nanoparticles. Res-loaded gliadin (Gli), zein, deamidated gliadin (DG) and deamidated zein (DZ) nanoparticles were filled in WSG. The hardness, G' and G'' of WSG were notably increased. It can be attributed to the more ordered and stable structure induced by the interaction of prolamin nanoparticles and starch. The Res retention of nanoparticles and nanoparticle-filled starch gels was at least 24.6 % and 36.0 % higher than free Res upon heating. When exposed to ultraviolet, the Res retention was enhanced by over 6.1 % and 37.5 %. The in-vitro digestion demonstrated that the Res releasing percentage for nanoparticle-filled starch gels was 25.8 %-38.7 % lower than nanoparticles in the simulated stomach, and more Res was released in the simulated intestine. This resulted in a higher bioaccessibility of 82.1 %-93.2 %. The bioaccessibility of Res in Gli/Res/WSG and DG/Res/WSG was greater than that of Zein/Res/WSG and DZ/Res/WSG. More hydrophobic interactions occurred between Res and Gli, DG. The interactions between Res and zein, DZ were mainly hydrogen bonding. The microstructure showed that nanoparticles exhibited dense spherical structures and were uniformly embedded in the pores of starch gels.

Whey protein isolate-resveratrol complex as a radical scavenging foaming ingredient with increased ultraviolet stability

Functional foaming food ingredients play a vital role in preparing healthcare foods, however, the weak foamability and low photostability of ingredients severely limit their further development. Herein, whey protein isolate-resveratrol complexes (WPI-RES) were fabricated to address these challenges. Multi-spectral analysis and molecular simulation results revealed the key driving forces of hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions to promote the formation of WPI-RES complexes, leading to the enhanced foamability and emulsifying properties of WPI after binding with RES. Importantly, the robust radical scavenging activity of RES within WPI was maintained under UV light irradiation compared to that of free RES as identified by DPPH assay, which was presumably due to inhibited photoisomerization of RES after binding to WPI. This work provides a promising foaming ingredient with increased ultraviolet stability and radical scavenging activity, paves the way to develop stable health-promoting foaming food products.

Molecular Modelling of Resveratrol Derivatives with SIRT1 for the Stimulation of Deacetylase Activity

BACKGROUND

Resveratrol is a polyphenol that is found in plants and has been proposed to have a potential therapeutic effect through the activation of SIRT1, which is a crucial member of the mammalian NAD+ -dependent deacetylases. However, how its activity is enhanced toward specific substrates by resveratrol derivatives has not been studied. This study aimed to evaluate the types of interaction of resveratrol and its derivatives with SIRT1 as the target protein, as well as to find out the best ligand with the strangest interaction with SIRT1.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, we employed the extensive molecular docking analysis using AutoDock Vina to comparatively evaluate the interactions of resveratrol derivatives (22 molecules from the ZINC database) as ligands with SIRT1 (PDB ID: 5BTR) as a receptor. The ChemDraw and Chem3D tools were used to prepare 3D structures of all ligands and energetically minimize them by the MM2 force field.

RESULTS

The molecular docking and visualizations showed that conformational change in resveratrol derivatives significantly influenced the parameter for docking results. Several types of interactions, including conventional hydrogen bonds, carbon-hydrogen bonds, Pi-donor hydrogen bonds, and Pi-Alkyl, were found via docking analysis of resveratrol derivatives and SIRT1 receptors. The possible activation effect of resveratrol 4'-(6-galloylglucoside) with ZINC ID: ZINC230079516 with higher binding energy score (-46.8608 kJ/mol) to the catalytic domain (CD) of SIRT1 was achieved at the maximum value for SIRT1, as compared to resveratrol and its other derivatives.

CONCLUSION

Finally, resveratrol 4'-(6-galloylglucoside), as a derivative for resveratrol, has stably interacted with the CD of SIRT1 and might be a potential effective activator for SIRT1.

Impact of moisture content on microstructural, thermal, and techno-functional characteristics of extruded whole-grain-based breakfast cereal enriched with Indian horse chestnut flour

The use of non-conventional seed flour is of interest in obtaining healthy breakfast cereals. The research aimed to study the physico-functional, bioactive, microstructure, and thermal characteristics of breakfast cereals using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and differential scanning calorimeter. The increase in feed moisture content (16 %) enhanced the bulk density (5.24 g/mL), water absorption index (7.76 g/g), total phenolic content (9.03 mg GAE/g), and antioxidant activity (30.36 %) having desirable expansion rate (2.84 mm), water solubility index (48 %), and color attributes. The microstructure showed dense inner structures with closed air cells in extruded flours. Extrusion treatment rearranged the crystalline structure from A-type to V-type by disrupting the granular structure of starch, reducing its crystallinity, and promoting the formation of an amylose-lipid complex network. Increasing conditioning moisture enhanced the degree of gelatinization (%), peak gelatinization temperature (Tp), and starch crystallinity (%) and reduced the gelatinization enthalpy (ΔHG) and gelatinization temperature ranges. The results reported in this study will help industries to develop innovative and novel food products containing functional ingredients.

Recent advances in oral delivery systems of resveratrol: foreseeing their use in functional foods

Herein, we review the current state-of-the-art on the use of micro- and nano-delivery systems, a possible solution to some of the drawbacks associated with the incorporation of resveratrol in foods. Specifically, we present an overview of a wide range of micro-nanostructures, namely, lipidic and polymeric, used for the delivery of resveratrol. Also, the gastrointestinal fate of resveratrol-loaded micro-nanostructures, as a critical parameter for their use as functional food, is explored in terms of stability, bioaccessibility, and bioavailability. Different micro-nanostructures are of interest for the development of functional foods given that they can provide different advantages and properties to these foods and even be tailor-made to address specific issues (e.g., controlled or targeted release). Therefore, we discuss a wide range of micro-nanostructures, namely, lipidic and polymeric, used to deliver resveratrol and aimed at the development of functional foods. It has been reported that the use of some production methodologies can be of greater interest than others, for example, emulsification, solvent displacement and electrohydrodynamic processing (EHDP) enable a greater increase in bioaccessibility. Additionally, the use of coatings facilitates further improvements in bioaccessibility, which is likely due to the increased gastric stability of the coated micro-nanostructures. Other properties, such as mucoadhesion, can also help improve bioaccessibility due to the increase in gut retention time. Additionally, cytotoxicity (e.g., biocompatibility, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory) and possible sensorial impact of resveratrol-loaded micro- and nano-systems in foods are highlighted.

Food-grade encapsulated polyphenols: recent advances as novel additives in foodstuffs

A growing inclination among consumers toward the consumption of natural products has propelled the usage of natural compounds as novel additives. Polyphenols are among the most popular candidates of natural food additives with multiple functionalities and bioactivities but are limited by instability. In this regard, a series of food-grade encapsulated polyphenols has been tailored for incorporating into food formulations as novel additives, which could better satisfy the complicated industry processing. This review seeks to present the most recent discussions regarding their application status in diverse foodstuffs as novel additives, involving functionalities, action mechanisms, and relevant encapsulation technologies. The scientific findings confirm that such novel additives show positive effects on physicochemical, sensory, and nutritional properties as well as the shelf life of diverse food matrices. However, poor heat resistance is still the major defect that restricts their application in thermal processes. Future research should focus on the evaluation of the compatibility and applicability of encapsulated polyphenols in real food processes as well as track and deepen their molecular action mechanisms in the context of complex foodstuffs. Innovation of existing encapsulation technologies should also be concerned in the future to bridge the gap between lab and scale-up production.

Simple and novel icariin-loaded pro-glycymicelles as a functional food: physicochemical characteristics, in vitro biological activities, and in vivo experimental hyperlipidemia prevention evaluations

A novel functional food for hyperlipidemia named icariin (ICA) pro-glycymicelles (ICA-PGs) using glycyrrhizin as a phytonanomaterial was easily prepared with improved storage, pH, and salt stabilities. ICA-PGs can easily dissolve in water to self-assemble into a clear glycymicelle solution with high ICA encapsulation efficiency. The ICA in ICA-PGs exhibits significantly increased aqueous solubility, faster in vitro release, and higher bioaccessibility than bare ICA. The ICA-PGs exhibited improved in vitro activities including antioxidant, anti-α-glucosidase, anti-lipase, and anti-cholesterol esterase activities. The ICA-PG also demonstrated improved antioxidant activity in cells. In vivo evaluation confirmed that the ICA-PG demonstrated a significant protective effect against experimental hyperlipidemia in mice, exhibiting decreasing levels of triglycerides (TGs), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) in the serum, and restoring the hepatic morphology to the normal state. These results indicated that the ICA-PG could improve in vitro/in vivo profiles of ICA, providing a new concept and a promising functional food for hyperlipidemia.

Diet-induced animal model anti-obesity, phytochemical profiling, and in silico analysis of culinary plant gokhru (Pedalium murex L.) mucilage

Plant-based diets (PBDs) are renowned for managing and developing bioactive chemical inhibitors to combat obesity, a well-known global public health concern. There are currently no published research studies examining the effects of food plant mucilage dietary supplements on animal models of obesity induced by high-fat diets (HFD). The present research investigated the anti-obesity properties of the culinary plant Pedalium murex L. mucilage (PMM) in obese albino male rats models fed HFD. PMM's HR-LCMS phytochemical profiling and in silico evaluation of anti-obesity and drug-likeness using Schrodinger's Glide, QikProp, and GROMACS modules were also investigated. In vivo, anti-obesity model animal rat's daily dietary intake, common blood biochemical parameters, and histological examination of the liver and kidney tissues for the development of macrovesicular and microvesicular steatosis were all performed. Among the 46 Phytochemicals profiled, 7(14)-Bisabolene-2, 3, 10,11tetrol, Moschamine, and N-Feruloyltyramine show prominent anti-obesity activity and drug-like characteristics in silico. Rats given PMM showed significantly lower serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides (TGs), increased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), as well as macro-and microvesicular steatosis, lobular inflammation of the liver and kidney tissues. This suggests that PMM is an effective natural anti-obesity therapeutic ingredient or dietary supplement with a high concentration of anti-obesity phytochemicals that mainly satisfies the needs for such natural anti-obesity medicine or a supplement.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Enhanced Elderberry Snack Bars: A Sensory, Nutritional, and Rheological Evaluation

Interest in functional foods is continuously increasing, having the potential to be an ally in reducing cardiometabolic risk factors. This study focuses on developing and evaluating oat- and millet-based snack bars enriched with freeze-dried elderberry powder (FDEBP), aiming to combine great taste with enhanced nutritional value, antioxidant properties, and prebiotic potential. The research encompassed a sensory evaluation, nutritional assessment, and rheological analysis of the snack bars. A hedonic test was conducted to gauge consumer preferences and overall liking, providing insights into taste, texture, and acceptance. Sensory evaluation revealed positive feedback from participants, and acceptance rating scores ranged from 7 to 8.04, the best score recorded by one of the enhanced bars with 1% FDEBP. The rheological analysis determined the bars' dynamic storage modulus (G') and loss modulus (G″), assessing the material's elasticity and mechanical properties. Results showed that the incorporation of 0.5% and 1% FDEBP in the oat and millet snack bars significantly impacted their rheological properties, enhancing structural strength. Nutritional analysis demonstrated that the snack bars provided a complete mix of macronutrients required in a daily diet. The study sheds light on the potential of functional snack bars enriched with FDEBP, offering a delectable way to access essential nutrients and bioactive compounds in a minimally processed form, without the addition of sweeteners or additives, friendly to the gut microbiota.

Comprehensive review of resveratrol as a feed additive in dairy cows: exploring its potential diverse effects and implications

Heat stress and growing demand for dairy products in tropical regions exert metabolic pressure on dairy cows, leading to metabolic diseases and economic losses. Resveratrol (RSV) is known for its numerous beneficial health effects and can be used as a barrier against metabolic abnormalities and prevent economic losses. Several studies have investigated the effects of RSV in humans and various animal species. In this review, we attempted to investigate the effects of RSV from different aspects so that we could have a practical proposal for its utilization in dairy cows. RSV was found to have potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and antimicrobial effects, leading to improved reproductive performance. It is interesting that the effect of RSV on the microbial population leads to a significant decrease in methane emissions. However, high doses of RSV have been associated with possible adverse effects, underscoring the dose dependence of its efficacy. In conclusion, RSV polyphenol at optimal doses is a promising agent for the prevention and treatment of metabolic abnormalities in dairy cows, based on our literature review and study results.

Oxidative Stability of Avocado Snacks Formulated with Olive Extract as an Active Ingredient for Novel Food Production

Analysis of the oxidative stability of novel avocado chips with added natural extracts was carried out with the aim of reducing the chemical additive content in their formulation. Two different natural extracts were initially evaluated and characterized: one obtained from olive pomace (OE) and other from pomegranate seed waste. OE was selected due to its better antioxidant potential according to FRAP, ABTS, and DPPH assays as well as its higher total phenolic content. The formulations used were 0, 1.5 wt.%, and 3 wt.% of OE. A gradual disappearance of the band found around 3009 cm^-1 and related to unsaturated fatty acids was observed in the control sample in contrast to formulations with added OE. The band observed near 3299 cm^-1 widened and intensified with time due to the oxidation degree of samples, with this effect being higher in the control chips. The observed changes in fatty acid and hexanal content with storage time underlined the higher extent of oxidation in the control samples. This fact could suggest an antioxidant protectant action of OE in avocado chips during thermal treatment, which was attributed to the presence of phenolic compounds. The obtained chips incorporating OE represent a viable option for the development of a natural, healthy, and clean-label avocado snack at competitive cost and with low environmental impacts.

Exploration of the inhibitory mechanisms of trans-polydatin/resveratrol on α-glucosidase by multi-spectroscopic analysis, in silico docking and molecular dynamics simulation

Plant-derived phenolics as natural α-glucosidase (α-GLU) inhibitors have attached great attention in the treatment of type-II diabetes mellitus currently. In this study, trans-polydatin and its aglycone resveratrol were found to show a notable inhibitory activity on α-GLU in a mixed-type manner with IC₅₀ values of 18.07 and 16.73 μg/mL, respectively, which were further stronger than anti-diabetic drug acrabose (IC₅₀ = 179.86 μg/mL). Multi-spectroscopic analysis results indicated that polydatin/resveratrol bound to α-GLU with one affinity binding site which was mainly driven by hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces, and this binding process resulted in conformational alteration of α-GLU. In silico docking study showed that polydatin/resveratrol can well interact with the surrounding amino acid residues in the active cavity of α-GLU. Molecular dynamics simulation further clarified the structure and characterization of α-GLU-polydatin/resveratrol complexes. This study might supply a theoretical basis for the designing of novel functional foods with polydatin/resveratrol.

Development, application and future trends of starch-based delivery systems for nutraceuticals: A review

As a natural biopolymer, starch is ideally adapted as an encapsulant material for nutraceutical delivery systems due to its unique nature of extensive sources, versatility and high biocompatibility. This review offers an outline of recent advances in the development of starch-based delivery systems. The structure and functional properties of starch in encapsulating and delivering bioactive ingredients are first introduced. Structural modification of starch improves the functionalities and extends the applications of starch in novel delivery systems. Then, various nutraceutical delivery systems are systematically summarized, which include porous starch, starch particle, amylose inclusion complex, cyclodextrin, gel, edible film and emulsion. Next, the delivery process of nutraceuticals is discussed in two parts: digestion and release. Intestinal digestion plays an important role during the whole digestion process of starch-based delivery systems. Moreover, controlled release of bioactives can be achieved by porous starch, starch-bioactive complexation and core-shell structure. Finally, the challenges of the existing starch-based delivery systems are deliberated, and the directions for future research are pointed out. Composite delivery carriers, co-delivery, intelligent delivery, delivery in real food systems, and reuse of agricultural wastes may be the research trends for starch-based delivery systems in the future.

Reactive Oxygen Species-Responsive Polypeptide Drug Delivery System Targeted Activated Hepatic Stellate Cells to Ameliorate Liver Fibrosis

Hepatic fibrosis is a chronic liver disease that lacks effective pharmacotherapeutic treatments. As part of the disease's mechanism, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are activated by damage-related stimuli to secrete excessive extracellular matrix, leading to collagen deposition. Currently, the drug delivery system that targets HSCs in the treatment of liver fibrosis remains an urgent challenge due to the poor controllability of drug release. Since the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increases sharply in activated HSCs (aHSCs), we designed ROS-responsive micelles for the HSC-specific delivery of a traditional Chinese medicine, resveratrol (RES), for treatment of liver fibrosis. The micelles were prepared by the ROS-responsive amphiphilic block copolymer poly(l-methionine-block-N^ε-trifluoro-acetyl-l-lysine) (PMK) and a PEG shell modified with a CRGD peptide insertion. The CRGD-targeted and ROS-responsive micelles (CRGD-PMK-MCs) could target aHSCs and control the release of RES under conditions of high intracellular ROS in aHSCs. The CRGD-PMK-MCs treatment specifically enhanced the targeted delivery of RES to aHSCs both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro experiments show that CRGD-PMK-MCs could significantly promote ROS consumption, reduce collagen accumulation, and avert activation of aHSCs. In vivo results demonstrate that CRGD-PMK-MCs could alleviate inflammatory infiltration, prevent fibrosis, and protect hepatocytes from damage in fibrotic mice. In conclusion, CRGD-PMK-MCs show great potential for targeted and ROS-responsive controlled drug release in the aHSCs of liver fibrosis.

Potential roles and molecular mechanisms of phytochemicals against cancer

Increasing evidence has been reported regarding phytochemicals, plant secondary metabolites, having therapeutic functions against numerous human diseases. Recently, phytochemicals (flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenoids, alkaloids, saponins, coumarins and so on) have shown promising anti-cancer efficacy with their distinct advantages of high efficiency and low toxicity. They regulate programmed cell death (apoptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy), migration and senescence-related signaling pathways of cancer via the modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, deleted in liver cancer 1 (DLC1), nuclear factor κ light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) pathways and glycolytic enzymes. Here, we review the molecular mechanisms by which phytochemicals prevent the development of cancer. Furthermore, phytochemicals combined with chemotherapeutic agents could target the crosstalk among multiple signal cascades to block chemoresistance and attenuate carcinogenic properties, and can be considered as a novel and potential therapeutic strategy. Our review highlights that the mechanisms and promising applications are required to be understood to decisively establish the anti-cancer efficacy of natural phytochemicals.

Biomaterial-Based Therapeutic Strategies for Obesity and Its Comorbidities

Obesity is a global public health issue that results in many health complications or comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and fatty liver. Pharmacotherapy alone or combined with either lifestyle alteration or surgery represents the main modality to combat obesity and its complications. However, most anti-obesity drugs are limited by their bioavailability, target specificity, and potential toxic effects. Only a handful of drugs, including orlistat, liraglutide, and semaglutide, are currently approved for clinical obesity treatment. Thus, there is an urgent need for alternative treatment strategies. Based on the new revelation of the pathogenesis of obesity and the efforts toward the multi-disciplinary integration of materials, chemistry, biotechnology, and pharmacy, some emerging obesity treatment strategies are gradually entering the field of preclinical and clinical research. Herein, by analyzing the current situation and challenges of various new obesity treatment strategies such as small-molecule drugs, natural drugs, and biotechnology drugs, the advanced functions and prospects of biomaterials in obesity-targeted delivery, as well as their biological activities and applications in obesity treatment, are systematically summarized. Finally, based on the systematic analysis of biomaterial-based obesity therapeutic strategies, the future prospects and challenges in this field are proposed.

Practical application of nanoencapsulated nutraceuticals in real food products; a systematic review

In recent decades, due to the increase in awareness, most consumers prefer foods that not only satisfy their primal urge of hunger but also include health-promoting effects on the body. Therefore, the food industry has an increasing tendency to apply the nutrients (like vitamins, essential fatty acids and minerals) and replace synthetic additives with natural bioactives (like phenolics and essential oils) to produce functional products. However, low dispersibility and shelf-stability as well as presenting unpleasant taste and odor are the most critical barriers for direct incorporation of these useful compounds into foods. In this context, nanoencapsulation has been proposed as a relatively new solution to overcome the mentioned limitations. However, fewer studies have focused on incorporating the bioactive-loaded nanocarriers into the food matrices. This study intends to help the development of functional food production by doing an exhaustive review on the incorporation of nanoencapsulated ingredients into the real food system and resulted interaction of nanocarriers and food products. According to the literature, incorporation of the nanoencapsulated bioactive ingredients into foods can be effectively used to enhance their stability during the processing and storage stage and their bioavailability as well as to delay lipid oxidation and microbial growth in food, without negatively affecting physicochemical, organoleptic and qualitative properties. However, some published results to date declared that food matrix might adversely affect the bioavailability and antimicrobial activity of nanoencapsulated ingredients. It seems that further studies are required to contribute to the choice of appropriate healthy ingredients and wall materials for incorporating into a given food structure.

Current Development of Nano-Drug Delivery to Target Macrophages

Macrophages are the most important innate immune cells that participate in various inflammation-related diseases. Therefore, macrophage-related pathological processes are essential targets in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Since nanoparticles (NPs) can be preferentially taken up by macrophages, NPs have attracted most attention for specific macrophage-targeting. In this review, the interactions between NPs and the immune system are introduced to help understand the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of NPs in immune cells. The current design and strategy of NPs modification for specific macrophage-targeting are investigated and summarized.

Biocompatible Nanomaterials in Food Science, Technology, and Nutrient Drug Delivery: Recent Developments and Applications

Nanomaterials exist as potential biocompatible materials in nature and are being synthesized to provide extraordinary characteristics in various food industry sectors. Synthesis of biocompatible nanomaterials requires modification in the shape, density, and size of nanomaterials. Biocompatible nanomaterials are synthesized to reduce toxicity, decrease adverse effects in the gastrointestinal tract, and enhance immune response. Nanomaterials can target organs and tissues. Nanomaterials are found to be effectively compatible by interacting with functional foods and nutraceuticals. Applications of these nanomaterials are novel strategies in food industries such as food safety, food processing, food quality, food packaging, and food labeling. Various functions like detection of toxins and pathogens; production of biocompatible packaging; enhancement in color, flavor, and aroma; processing edible film, and sensing authenticity of food product are being accomplished with no toxicity. This review provides a systematic study on the biocompatibility of nanomaterials. It highlights the synthesis of biocompatible nanomaterials and advanced functions of these nanomaterials in the production area, processing industry, safety improvement, quality control, edible packaging films, biocompatibility, current developments, legislations and regulations for Nano-products, health and safety concerns, toxicity and public perceptions for use of nanomaterials.

Enhancing bioaccessibility of resveratrol by loading in natural porous starch microparticles

Resveratrol (RSV) is a lipophilic polyphenol susceptible to photo- and thermal degradation, and strategies are to be studied to enable its distribution in food matrices, prevent its degradation during storage, and increase its bioaccessibility during digestion. In this study, the porous matrix of natural starch, in the form of milled freeze-dried potato microparticles (FDPMs), was studied as an absorbent to load RSV. The binary solvent of ethanol and polyethylene glycol 400 (40:60 v/v) was used to dissolve 30% w/v RSV for diffusion into FDPMs. After ethanol was evaporated, the loading capacity was 112 mg RSV/g FDPMs and was maintained at 104 mg RSV/g FDPMs (92.9% retention) after 110-day ambient storage. The RSV stability under UV irradiation at 253 nm was improved by 32% due to shielding effect of FDPMs, and the ferric reducing power was 25% higher than the pristine RSV. The release of RSV in FDPMs was significantly higher than pristine RSV during simulated gastric and intestinal digestions (82.3% vs 51.4% bioaccessibility). The increased reducing power and bioaccessibility were supported by the amorphous state of RSV in FDPMs. The present study illustrates the potential of porous vegetable microparticles as natural matrices to load lipophilic bioactive compounds in functional foods.

Emerging Trends in the Delivery of Resveratrol by Nanostructures: Applications of Nanotechnology in Life Sciences

Resveratrol (RES) is a stilbene group of natural polyphenolic compounds in trees, peanuts, and grapes. RES is revealed with anticancer, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects. Though it is proven with prominent therapeutic activity, low aqueous solubility, poor bioavailability, and short half‐life had hindered its use to exploit the potential. Also, the first‐pass metabolism and undergoing enterohepatic recirculation are obscure in the minds of researchers for their in vitro studies. Many approaches have been investigated and shown promising results in manipulating their physicochemical properties to break this barrier. Nanocarriers are one of them to reduce the first‐pass metabolism and to overcome other hurdles. This article reviews and highlights such encapsulation technologies. Nanoencapsulated RES improves in vitro antioxidant effect, and this review also highlights the new strategies and the concept behind how resveratrol can be handled and implemented with better therapeutic efficacy.

Sarcocornia perennis: A Salt Substitute in Savory Snacks

Salt is the primary source of sodium in the human diet, and it is associated with hypertension and increased risk of heart disease and stroke. A growing interest in halophyte plants and food products containing this type of ingredient have been observed, to reduce the NaCl daily intake. In the present work, Sarcocornia perennis was incorporated as a food ingredient into crackers to replace the salt (NaCl) and to evaluate its impact on physical properties, water activity, nutritional composition, mineral profile, total phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and sensory evaluation. Concentrations of powder dried S. perennis from 1 to 10% were tested by replacing the initial salt content and adjusting the flour incorporation to the initial formulation. The incorporation of S. perennis had no relevant impact on cracker firmness, but it induced an increase in their crispness. Furthermore, the incorporation of this halophyte originated darker crackers, which was revealed by a decrease of L* and an increase of b* values. In terms of nutritional composition, the incorporation of S. perennis leads to the improvement of the snack's nutritional profile, namely in terms of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and minerals, highlighting the high content in potassium, magnesium, and phosphor. Crackers with a content of 5% of S. perennis were sensorily well accepted and this level should be considered the limit of incorporation accepted by the panelists. However, by substituting 1% NaCl for an equal amount of S. perennis, it is possible to obtain a 70% reduction in sodium content, which is an important contribution to reducing the overall salt content of the diet.

Insight of nanotechnological processing for nano-fortified functional foods and nutraceutical-opportunities, challenges, and future scope in food for better health

In the twenty-first century food sector, nanotechnological processing is a new frontier that has vibrant impact on enhancing the food quality, nutritional value, food safety, and nano-fortified functional foods aspects. In addition, the added-value of various robust nano-scale materials facilitates the targeted delivery of nutraceutical ingredients and treatment of obesity and comorbidities. The recent advancement in nanomaterial-assisted palatability enhancement of healthy foods opened up a whole new area of research and development in food nanoscience. However, there is no comprehensive review available on promises of nanotechnology in the food industry in the existing literature. Thus, herein, an effort has been made to cover this leftover literature gap by spotlighting the new nanotechnological frontier and their future scope in food engineering for better health. Following a brief introduction, promises of nanotechnology have revolutionized the twenty-first century food sector of the modern world. Next, recent and relevant examples discuss the exploitation and deployment of nanomaterials in food to attain certain health benefits. A detailed insight is also given by discussing the role of nano-processing in nutraceutical delivery to treat obesity and comorbidities. The latter half of the work focuses on improving healthy foods' palatability and food safety aspects to meet the growing consumer demands. Furthermore, marketed products and public acceptance of nanotechnologically designed food items as well as future prospects are also covered herein.

The fabrication of novel zein and resveratrol covalent conjugates: Enhanced thermal stability, emulsifying and antioxidant properties

Novel zein and resveratrol conjugates were fabricated by alkaline and free radical grafting reactions. The grafting efficiency and total phenolic content of alkaline treated conjugates were slightly higher than those of free radical grafting. Compared to native and alkaline treated zein, the sulfhydryl contents of conjugates were obviously decreased, confirming that nucleophilic addition of resveratrol to sulfhydryl group of zein formed stable CS covalent bonds. The conformation changes of zein modified by resveratrol were revealed by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy. Moreover, covalent modification changed isoelectric point of zein from 6.5 to 5.4 (alkaline) or 5.6 (free radical grafting), and broadening the pH application range of zein. It was worth mentioning that the conjugates showed much higher thermal stability, antioxidant activity, and emulsify activity than those of native zein. This study provides an effective way for the design of novel delivery systems to encapsulate bioactive substances.