Detailed polyphenolic profiling of Annurca apple (M. pumila Miller cv Annurca) by a combination of RP-UHPLC and HILIC, both hyphenated to IT-TOF mass spectrometry

Separation of polyphenols by HILIC methods with diode array detection, charged aerosol detection and mass spectrometry: Application to grapevine extracts rich in stilbenoids

The characterization of plant extracts is usually accomplished by reverse-phase liquid chromatography, but the development of new complementary approaches, such as HILIC, offers an orthogonal method. In this study, five HILIC stationary phases were evaluated to assess their ability to retain polyphenols. They were selected to cover the main different HILIC mechanisms: bare silica; silica with ethylene bridge; neutral amide; amino; zwitterionic. A total of 31 polyphenol standards were used for the screening, including 9 stilbenes, 8 flavonoids, 6 anthocyanins, and 8 phenolic acids. Three different detections were tested: diode array detector, charged aerosol detector and mass spectrometry. Results indicated that silica supports were not suitable for retaining polyphenols, with no or low retention observed except for anthocyanins. The effectiveness of stationary phases in retention of phenolics following the order related to increased retention: zwitterionic, amide, and amino. The choice of mobile phase also influenced retention. Mobile phases containing TFA as pH modifier limited retention, while formic acid was found to be more effective for polyphenol retention. Ammonium buffers also improved retention but often compromised peak shape. pH changes mainly impacted ionizable compounds, such as phenolic acids, by increasing their retention when they were ionized. DAD was wellsuited for detecting polyphenols that possess aromatic rings, though peak wavelengths depend on the structures of the polyphenols. CAD, while less sensitive than DAD and MS, provided an almost similar response for structurally related compounds, even with gradient elution. MS was the preferred detector for quantification when resolution between compounds was challenging, as it is often the case with natural extracts. The study successfully demonstrated that best HILIC conditions were obtained using an amino stationary phase composed of a polyethylenimine and formic acid-based mobile phase. These conditions were successfully applied to the analysis of stilbenoid-rich extracts from different parts of the vine. The elution order of stilbenoids followed the degree of polymerization. With CAD, the chromatographic profile was more representative of sample composition. It was demonstrated for the first time the interest of a combination of HILIC and CAD for analyzing stilbenes, offering a complementary approach to the classic RP analysis.

Non-enzymatic degradation of flavan-3-ols by ascorbic acid- and sugar-derived aldehydes during storage of apple juices and concentrates produced with the innovative spiral filter press

Potentially health-promoting concentrations of flavan-3-ols were previously shown to be retained in apple juices produced with the emerging spiral filter press. Due to the novelty of this technology, the factors governing the stability of flavan-3-ol-rich apple juices have only scarcely been studied. Therefore, we produced flavan-3-ol-rich apple juices and concentrates (16, 40, 70 °Brix) supplemented with ascorbic acid (0.0, 0.2, 1.0 g/L) according to common practice. Flavan-3-ols (DP1-7) and twelve flavan-3-ol reaction products were comprehensively characterized and monitored during storage for 16 weeks at 20 and 37 °C, employing RP-UHPLC- and HILIC-DAD-ESI(-)-QTOF-HR-MS/MS. Flavan-3-ol degradation followed a second-order reaction kinetic, being up to 3.5-times faster in concentrates (70 °Brix) than in single strength juices (16 °Brix). Furthermore, they diminished substantially faster compared to other phenolic compounds. For instance, after 16-weeks at 20 °C, the maximum loss of flavan-3-ols (-70 %) was greater than those of hydroxycinnamic acids (-18 %) and dihydrochalcones (-12 %). We observed that flavan-3-ols formed adducts with sugars and other carbonyls, such as 5-(hydroxymethyl)furfural and the ascorbic acid-derived L-xylosone. Increased degradation rates correlated particularly with increased furan aldehyde levels as found in concentrates stored at elevated temperatures. These insights could be used for optimizing production, distribution, and storage of flavan-3-ol-rich apple juices and other foods and beverages.

Advances in Chromatographic Analysis of Phenolic Phytochemicals in Foods: Bridging Gaps and Exploring New Horizons

Chromatographic analysis of phenolic phytochemicals in foods has significantly advanced over the past decade (2014-2024), meeting increasing demands for precision and efficiency. This review covers both conventional and advanced chromatographic techniques used for detecting phenolic phytochemicals in foods. Conventional methods like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, Thin-Layer Chromatography, and Gas Chromatography are discussed, along with their benefits and limitations. Advanced techniques, including Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography, Nano-LC, Multidimensional Liquid Chromatography, and Capillary Electrophoresis, are highlighted for their innovations and improved capabilities. The review addresses challenges in current chromatographic methods, emphasizing the need for standardized and validated procedures according to the Food and Drug Administration, European Cooperation for Accreditation of Laboratories, and The International Organization for Standardization guidelines to ensure reliable and reproducible results. It also considers novel strategies for reducing the environmental impact of chromatographic methods, advocating for sustainable practices in analytical chemistry.

Analytical characterization of flavan-3-ol-rich apple juices produced with the innovative spiral filter press technology

The retention of flavan-3-ols and other phenolic compounds during apple juice production at pilot plant scale (200 kg, cv. Boskoop) was investigated. An oxygen-excluding spiral filter press and a conventional decanter were used with and without pectinase mash treatment. Phenolic compounds were comprehensively identified and quantitated by RP-UHPLC and HILIC, both coupled to DAD-FLD and DAD-ESI(-)-QTOF-HR-MS/MS. These techniques combined with using a NIST cocoa flavan-3-ol standard allowed for the first time an individual quantification of flavan-3-ol fractions (DP 1-7) in apple juices. Spiral filter-pressed juices were exposed to less oxidation and exhibited four times higher total phenolic compound levels than decanter-made juices (1016 vs. 262 mg/L). Apple juices derived from pectinase-treated mashes had lower total phenolic compound levels than their non-treated counterparts. However, those made by spiral filter press still retained significantly higher concentrations (780 vs. 104 mg/L). Flavan-3-ols were especially well retained by spiral filter press processing, reaching unprecedentedly high concentrations of up to 713 mg/L. A 280 mL serving of non-treated spiral filter-pressed juice would therefore suffice to provide the daily intake of 200 mg flavan-3-ols, equaling the dose of cocoa flavan-3-ols associated with an authorized European health claim for healthy blood flow.

Coupling Hydrophilic Interaction Chromatography and Reverse-Phase Chromatography for Improved Direct Analysis of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins

Acid-catalyzed depolymerization is recognized as the most practical method for analyzing subunit composition and the polymerization degree of proanthocyanidins, involving purification by removing free flavan-3-ols, as well as acid-catalyzed cleavage and the identification of cleavage products. However, after the removal of proanthocyanidins with low molecular weights during purification, the formation of anthocyanidins from the extension subunits accompanying acid-catalyzed cleavage occurred. Thus, grape seed extract other than purified proanthocyanidins was applied to acid-catalyzed depolymerization. Hydrophilic interaction chromatography was developed to quantify free flavan-3-ols in grape seed extract to distinguish them from flavan-3-ols from terminal subunits of proanthocyanidins. Reverse-phase chromatography was used to analyze anthocyanidins and cleavage products at 550 and 280 nm, respectively. It is found that the defects of the recognized method did not influence the results of the subunit composition, but both altered the mean degree of polymerization. The established method was able to directly analyze proanthocyanidins in grape seed extract for higher accuracy and speed than the recognized method.

Cocoa Extract Provides Protection against 6-OHDA Toxicity in SH-SY5Y Dopaminergic Neurons by Targeting PERK

Parkinson’s disease (PD) represents one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders, characterized by a dopamine (DA) deficiency in striatal synapses and misfolded toxic α-synuclein aggregates with concomitant cytotoxicity. In this regard, the misfolded proteins accumulation in neurodegenerative disorders induces a remarkable perturbations of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis leading to persistent ER stress, which in turn, effects protein synthesis, modification, and folding quality control. A large body of evidence suggests that natural products target the ER stress signaling pathway, exerting a potential action in cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. This study aims to assess the neuroprotective effect of cocoa extract and its purified fractions against a cellular model of Parkinson’s disease represented by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma. Our findings demonstrate, for the first time, the ability of cocoa to specifically targets PERK sensor, with significant antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities as both crude and fractioning extracts. In addition, cocoa also showed antiapoptotic properties in 3D cell model and a notable ability to inhibit the accumulation of α-synuclein in 6-OHDA-induced cells. Overall, these results indicate that cocoa exerts neuroprotective effects suggesting a novel possible strategy to prevent or, at least, mitigate neurodegenerative disorders, such as PD.

Comprehensive two-dimensional temperature-responsive × reversed phase liquid chromatography for the analysis of wine phenolics

Phenolic compounds are an interesting class of natural products because of their proposed contribution to health benefits of foods and beverages and as a bio-source of organic (aromatic) building blocks. Phenolic extracts from natural products are often highly complex and contain compounds covering a broad range in molecular properties. While many 1D-LC and mass spectrometric approaches have been proposed for the analysis of phenolics, this complexity inevitably leads to challenging identification and purification. New insights into the composition of phenolic extracts can be obtained through online comprehensive two-dimensional liquid chromatography (LC × LC) coupled to photodiode array and mass spectrometric detection. However, several practical hurdles must be overcome to achieve high peak capacities and to obtain robust methods with this technique. In many LC × LC configurations, refocusing of analytes at the head of the ²D column is hindered by the high eluotropic strength of the solvent transferred from the ¹D to the ²D, leading to peak breakthrough or broadening. LC × LC combinations whereby a purely aqueous mobile phase is used in the ¹D and RPLC is used in the ²D are unaffected by these phenomena, leading to more robust methods. In this contribution, the combination of temperature-responsive liquid chromatography (TRLC) with RPLC is used for the first time for the analysis of phenolic extracts of natural origin to illustrate the potential of this alternative combination for natural product analyses. The possibilities of the combination are investigated through analysis of wine extracts by TRLC × RPLC-DAD and TRLC × RPLC-ESI-MS.

Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography to Characterize Nutraceuticals and Food Supplements Based on Flavanols and Related Compounds

Purified extracts from different types of berries and medicinal plants are increasingly used as raw materials for the production of nutraceuticals and dietary supplements, mainly due to their high content in bioactive substances. This is, for instance, the case of phenolic compounds such as flavonoids, which exhibit a wide range of beneficial properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic and antimicrobial activities. This paper tackles the characterization of several kinds of nutraceuticals based on hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) with fluorescence detection (FLD). The study focused on the determination of flavanols and related compounds such as condensed tannins. Analytes were recovered by solvent extraction using methanol:water:hydrochloric acid (70:29:1 v:v:v) as the extraction solvent under sonication for 30 min at 55 °C. Experimental design with response surface methodology was used to optimize the HILIC separation to achieve good resolution of the main components, using acetonitrile:acetic acid (99:1 v/v) (solvent A) and methanol:water:acetic acid, (95:3:2 v/v/v) (solvent B) as the components of the mobile phase. For the assessment of the elution gradient, factors under study were solvent B percentage and gradient time. The best conditions were achieved with 10% solvent B as the initial percentage and 30 min of linear gradient to reach 25% solvent B. Principal component analysis and partial least square-discriminant analysis were used to characterize and compare the compositional features of dietary supplements based on both targeted and non-targeted approaches. Results revealed that the sample distribution relied on the oligomeric nature of descriptors.

Industrial Fruits By-Products and Their Antioxidant Profile: Can They Be Exploited for Industrial Food Applications?

Fruit by-products have a low economic value and have proven biological activities, such as antioxidant capacity due to the presence of active compounds. The main objective of this study was to obtain and determine the antioxidant capacity, through DPPH radical assay and β-carotene bleaching assay, of three food grade extracts from apple, lemon, and orange industrial by-products. Furthermore, the extracts were characterized by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). LC with diode array detector (LC-DAD) was used for the quantification of the main polyphenols. Lemon extract presented the highest inhibition percentage of DPPH radical (51.7%) and the highest total phenolics content (43.4 mg GAE/g) from the by-products studied. Orange by-product was that with the higher number of polyphenols while lemon extract was that with the highest content of individual phenolics. The by-product obtained from the lemon was that with higher amounts of hydroxycinnamic acids (407 µg/g of by-product), mainly chlorogenic acid (386.7 µg/g), followed by the apple by-product (128.0 µg/g of by-product), which showed higher amounts of rosmarinic and chlorogenic acids. These industrial by-products have great potential as a source of natural antioxidants to be used directly as food additives or to be incorporated in packaging to produce active food packaging.

Biological Activity of MelAnnurca Flesh Apple Biophenols

Background:

The apple is among the most consumed fruits in the world and several studies suggest that apple polyphenols could play a role in preventing degenerative diseases. Recent studies have shown that polyphenols possess a high antioxidant and/or anti-proliferative power, therefore their food intake could play a decisive role in the prevention of various pathologies, in particular those associated with the production of free radicals. The Annurca apple (MelAnnurca), a variety from southern Italy, is called the "queen of apples" due to its remarkable organoleptic qualities: taste, flavor and aroma. The Annurca apple is a constituent component of the Mediterranean diet and its potential health benefit could be attributed to a large amount of bioactive components; in fact, this apple is characterized by an extremely high content of polyphenols.

Objective:

The aim of this paper was to review the most recent literature regarding the health benefits of Annurca apples and their phytochemicals. In particular, this review highlighted the effects of the flesh of this fruit on different types of human cells.

Methods:

A literature research was performed using the keywords “Annurca”, “apple”, “flesh”, “fruit”, “polyphenols”, “nutrition”, “nutraceuticals”, individually or all together, in Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed.

Results:

The MelAnnurca apple has a higher content of bioactive compounds (polyphenols) than other apples, making it an ideal source of nutraceuticals. Both the cytotoxic activity and the antioxidant effect of the extracts of polyphenols obtained from its flesh have been highlighted.

Conclusion:

These results give new insights for future implementation of the production chain of the Annurca apple in the area of Campania, Southern Italy. However, although evidence to support the health benefits of MelAnnurca apple polyphenols is rapidly accumulating, further human studies may be needed before the public is convinced and willing to incorporate the apple Annurca into their diet, accepting the idea that the integration of polyphenols has a beneficial effect on the health of the human body.

Effects of Biostimulants on Annurca Fruit Quality and Potential Nutraceutical Compounds at Harvest and during Storage

The cultivar Annurca is an apple that is cultivated in southern Italy that undergoes a typical redding treatment and it is appreciated for organoleptic characteristics, high pulp firmness, and nutritional profile. In this study, the effects of three different biostimulants (Micro-algae (MA), Protein hydrolysate (PEP), and Macro-algae mixed with zinc and potassium (LG)), with foliar application, on the quality parameters of Annurca apple fruits at the harvest, after redding, and at +60 and +120 days of cold storage were analyzed: total soluble solids (TSS) content, total acidity (TA), pH, firmness flesh, and red coloration of epicarp. Additionally, the polyphenolic quali-quantitative profile of pulp and peel was analyzed by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS and Folin-Ciocalteu and the antioxidant capacity with the methods 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric-reducing antioxidant capacity (FRAP). The results obtained suggest that biostimulants are involved in the regulation of the secondary metabolism of the treated plants, acting positively on the quality of the Annurca fruits and their nutritional value. Fruits treated with PEP have shown, during cold storage, a significantly higher content of total polyphenols in flesh and a higher concentration of phloretin xylo-glucoside and phloridzin (350.53 and 43.58 mg/kg dw respectively). MA treatment caused, at the same time, an enhancement of flavonols between 0.6–28% and showed the highest total polyphenol content in the peel after 60 and 120 days of cold storage, with 2696.048 and 2570.457 mg/kg dw, respectively. The long-term cold storage (120 days) satisfactorily maintained phenolic content of fruits deriving from MA and PEP application, in accordance with data that were obtained for peel, showed an increase of 7.8 and 5.8%, respectively, when compared to the fruits cold stored for 60 days. This study represents the first detailed research on the use of different types of biostimulants on the quality of the Annurca apple from harvest to storage.

Phenolic content and potential bioactivity of apple juice as affected by thermal and ultrasound pasteurization

Thermal (T) and ultrasound (US) pasteurization processes were applied to apple juice and the phenolic compounds (TPC) were quantified before and after in vitro digestion by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MSⁿ, with their bioaccessibility ascertained. Digested samples were analysed for their inhibitory capacity against α-glucosidase. Since some of the compounds exhibit fluorescence, both steady state and time-resolved fluorescence methods were used to investigate the binding to a blood transport protein, human serum albumin (HSA). It was found that processing induced an increase in the TPC content, which was more pronounced when US was applied. In contrast, digestion reduced the TPC content, evening out the overall effect. Still T and US pasteurized juices exhibited a higher quantity of TPC upon digestion as compared to the raw sample. No correlation was found between the TPC content and α-glucosidase inhibition, as the T and US pasteurized juices showed the highest and lowest inhibitory capacities against the enzyme, respectively. This is indicative that other compounds, such as those formed upon thermal treatment, may be involved in the antidiabetic effect of apple juice. The fluorescence study showed that binding occurred to HSA, at slightly different rates for different species present in the US treated extract. Considering energy consumption, US pasteurization is the most power consuming treatment despite its shorter duration. Overall, no univocal indication on the best pasteurization process can be gathered. Thus, it is necessary to define the desired target in order to drive technological interventions by a customized approach.

Triterpene Acid and Phenolics from Ancient Apples of Friuli Venezia Giulia as Nutraceutical Ingredients: LC-MS Study and In Vitro Activities

Triterpene acid and phenolic constituents from nine ancient varieties of apple (Malus domestica) fruits cultivated in Fanna, Friuli Venezia Giulia region, northeast Italy, were analyzed and compared with four commercial apples ('Golden Delicious', 'Red Delicious', 'Granny Smith' and 'Royal Gala'). Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were measured by spectrophotometric assays. The quali-quantitative fingerprint of secondary metabolites including triterpene acid was obtained by LC-DAD-(ESI)-MS and LC-(APCI)-MS, respectively. Based on the two LC-MS datasets, multivariate analysis was used to compare the composition of ancient fruit varieties with those of four commercial apples. Significant differences related mainly to the pattern of triterpene acids were found. Pomolic, euscaphyc, maslinic and ursolic acids are the most abundant triterpene in ancient varieties pulps and peels, while ursolic and oleanolic acids were prevalent in the commercial fruits. Also, the content of the phenolic compounds phloretin-2-O-xyloglucoside and quercetin-3-O-arabinoside was greater in ancient apple varieties. The antioxidant (radical scavenging, reducing power, metal chelating and phosphomolybdenum assays) and enzyme inhibitory effects (against cholinesterase, tyrosinase, amylase and glucosidase) of the samples were investigated in vitro. Antioxidant assays showed that the peels were more active than pulps. However, all the samples exhibited similar enzyme inhibitory effects. Ancient Friuli Venezia Giulia apple cultivars can be a source of chlorogenic acid and various triterpene acids, which are known for their potential anti-inflammatory activity and beneficial effects on lipid and glucose metabolism. Our results make these ancient varieties suitable for the development of new nutraceutical ingredients.

A Boost in Mitochondrial Activity Underpins the Cholesterol-Lowering Effect of Annurca Apple Polyphenols on Hepatic Cells

Reduction in cholesterol blood levels represents one of the therapeutic goals to achieve in order to reduce the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. Commonly, this goal is attempted by promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors and low-fat diets. Recently, several nutraceuticals have been shown to possess cholesterol-lowering properties and are becoming common over the counter products. Among others, apple polyphenols efficiently lower total cholesterol levels in humans and impact overall lipid metabolism. Malus Pumila Miller cv Annurca is an apple native to Southern Italy presenting one of the highest content of procyanidin B2, a dimeric procyanidin. Tested in clinical trials, the oral consumption of an Annurca polyphenolic extract (AAE) exerted a cholesterol-lowering effect similar to the statins Atorvastatin and Simvastatin. Despite AAE activity, the analysis of the molecular mechanism behind its cholesterol-lowering effect is unclear. Using isotope labeling and high-resolution mass spectrometry approaches we here performed a metabolic profiling of in vitro cultured human hepatocytes treated with AAE to reveal its mechanism of action. The results show that AAE acts differently than statins. The extract reprograms hepatic cell metabolism and promotes mitochondrial respiration, lipolysis and fatty acid β-oxidation. Citrate and acetyl-CoA, both necessary for the production of cholesterol, are diverted to the Krebs Cycle by AAE, that, ultimately, lowers cholesterogenesis and fatty acid synthesis.

Development of Health Products from Natural Sources

BioActive Compounds (BACs) recovered from food or food by-product matrices are useful in maintaining well being, enhancing human health, and modulating immune function to prevent or to treat chronic diseases. They are also generally seen by final consumers as safe, non-toxic and environment-friendly. Despite the complex process of production, chemical characterization, and assessment of health effects, BACs must also be manufactured in stable and bioactive ingredients to be used in pharmaceutical, food and nutraceutical industry. Generally, vegetable derivatives occur as sticky raw materials with pervasive smell and displeasing flavor. Also, they show critical water solubility and dramatic stability behavior over time, involving practical difficulties for industrial use. Therefore, the development of novel functional health products from natural sources requires the design of a suitable formulation to delivery BACs at the site of action, preserve stability during processing and storage, slow down the degradation processes, mask lousy tasting or smell, and increase the bioavailability, while maintaining the BACs functionality. The present review focuses on human health benefits, BACs composition, and innovative technologies or formulation approaches of natural ingredients from some selected foods and by-products from industrial food transformations.

Annurca Apple Polyphenols Protect Murine Hair Follicles from Taxane Induced Dystrophy and Hijacks Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Metabolism toward β-Oxidation

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is a common side effect of conventional chemotherapy and represents a major problem in clinical oncology. Even months after the end of chemotherapy, many cancer patients complain of hair loss, a condition that is psychologically difficult to manage. CIA disturbs social and sexual interactions and causes anxiety and depression. Synthetic drugs protecting from CIA and endowed with hair growth stimulatory properties are prescribed with caution by oncologists. Hormones, growth factors, morphogens could unwontedly protect tumour cells or induce cancer cell proliferation and are thus considered incompatible with many chemotherapy regimens. Nutraceuticals, on the contrary, have been shown to be safe and effective treatment options for hair loss. We here show that polyphenols from Malus Pumila Miller cv Annurca are endowed with hair growth promoting activity and can be considered a safe alternative to avoid CIA. In vitro, Annurca Apple Polyphenolic Extract (AAE) protects murine Hair Follicles (HF) from taxanes induced dystrophy. Moreover, in virtue of its mechanism of action, AAE is herein proven to be compatible with chemotherapy regimens. AAE forces HFs to produce ATP using mitochondrial β-oxidation, reducing Pentose Phosphate Pathway (PPP) rate and nucleotides production. As consequence, DNA replication and mitosis are not stimulated, while a pool of free amino acids usually involved in catabolic reactions are spared for keratin production. Moreover, measuring the effect exerted on Poly Unsaturated Fatty Acid (PUFA) metabolism, we prove that AAE promotes hair-growth by increasing the intracellular levels of Prostaglandins F2α (PGF2α) and by hijacking PUFA catabolites toward β-oxidation.

Annurca Apple Polyphenols Ignite Keratin Production in Hair Follicles by Inhibiting the Pentose Phosphate Pathway and Amino Acid Oxidation

Patterned hair loss (PHL) affects around 50% of the adult population worldwide. The negative impact that this condition exerts on people’s life quality has boosted the appearance of over-the-counter products endowed with hair-promoting activity. Nutraceuticals enriched in polyphenols have been recently shown to promote hair growth and counteract PHL. Malus pumila Miller cv. Annurca is an apple native to Southern Italy presenting one of the highest contents of Procyanidin B2. We have recently shown that oral consumption of Annurca polyphenolic extracts (AAE) stimulates hair growth, hair number, hair weight and keratin content in healthy human subjects. Despite its activity, the analysis of the molecular mechanism behind its hair promoting effect is still partially unclear. In this work we performed an unprecedented metabolite analysis of hair follicles (HFs) in mice topically treated with AAE. The metabolomic profile, based on a high-resolution mass spectrometry approach, revealed that AAE re-programs murine HF metabolism. AAE acts by inhibiting several NADPH dependent reactions. Glutaminolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, glutathione, citrulline and nucleotide synthesis are all halted in vivo by the treatment of HFs with AAE. On the contrary, mitochondrial respiration, β-oxidation and keratin production are stimulated by the treatment with AAE. The metabolic shift induced by AAE spares amino acids from being oxidized, ultimately keeping them available for keratin biosynthesis.

Antioxidant Properties of Buffalo-Milk Dairy Products: A β-Lg Peptide Released after Gastrointestinal Digestion of Buffalo Ricotta Cheese Reduces Oxidative Stress in Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Redox signaling regulates different gastrointestinal (G.I.) epithelium functions. At the intestinal level, the loss of redox homeostasis in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) is responsible for the pathogenesis and development of a wide diversity of G.I. disorders. Thus, the manipulation of oxidative stress in IECs could represent an important pharmacological target for different diseases. In this study, peptides released from in vitro gastro intestinal digestion of different buffalo-milk commercial dairy products were identified and evaluated for their bioactive properties. In particular, six G.I. digests of dairy products were tested in a model of oxidative stress for IECs. Among them, buffalo ricotta cheese was the most active and the presence of an abundant β-lactoglobulin peptide (YVEELKPTPEGDL, f:60-72) was also revealed. The antioxidant potential of the identified peptide was also evaluated in a model of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress in the IEC-6 cell line. The peptide was able to reduce ROS release, while, on the other hand, it increased nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) activation and the expression of antioxidant cytoprotective factors, such as heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). These results indicate that buffalo ricotta cheese-isolated peptide could have potential in the treatment of some gastrointestinal disorders.

Fast Profiling of Natural Pigments in Different Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) Dietary Supplements by DI-FT-ICR and Evaluation of their Antioxidant Potential by Pre-Column DPPH-UHPLC Assay

Arthrospira platensis, better known as Spirulina, is one of the most important microalgae species. This cyanobacterium possesses a rich metabolite pattern, including high amounts of natural pigments. In this study, we applied a combined strategy based on Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS) and Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) for the qualitative/quantitative characterization of Spirulina pigments in three different commercial dietary supplements. FT-ICR was employed to elucidate the qualitative profile of Spirulina pigments, in both direct infusion mode (DIMS) and coupled to UHPLC. DIMS showed to be a very fast (4 min) and accurate (mass accuracy ≤ 0.01 ppm) tool. 51 pigments were tentatively identified. The profile revealed different classes, such as carotenes, xanthophylls and chlorophylls. Moreover, the antioxidant evaluation of the major compounds was assessed by pre-column reaction with the DPPH radical followed by fast UHPLC-PDA separation, highlighting the contribution of single analytes to the antioxidant potential of the entire pigment fraction. β-carotene, diadinoxanthin and diatoxanthin showed the highest scavenging activity. The method took 40 min per sample, comprising reaction. This strategy could represent a valid tool for the fast and comprehensive characterization of Spirulina pigments in dietary supplements, as well as in other microalgae-based products.

Modification of Lipid Profile in Commercial Cow Milk Samples before and after Their Expiration Date: Evaluation of Storage Crucial Parameters and Possible Environmentally Friendly Disposal Alternatives

Milk waste is considered a highly polluting material and its disposal is an economic and environmental problem for the dairy sector. Despite this, it can be turned into a source of nutraceutical products and biodiesel substrate. The objective of this study was to determine the qualitative and quantitative variation of single fatty acids in cow milk samples before expiration date and within 28 days after expiration date in order to monitor how the profile of the lipid fraction is influenced by different physicochemical parameters. It was shown that lipolysis in milk is a process independent of time but dependent on the values of pH and total titratable acidity, while crucial parameters for the lipid oxidation are temperature and time of exposure to atmospheric oxygen. All of these factors are at the basis of the efficacy of milk storage conditions. Moreover, our data demonstrate that milk, several weeks after its expiry date, is a rich source of fatty acids that may be recovered as potential substrates for the formulation of economically viable products and eco-friendly diesel-like fuels.

Peptidome profiles and bioactivity elucidation of buffalo-milk dairy products after gastrointestinal digestion

Buffalo milk is highly appreciated for its nutritive properties and highly employed in dairy products, despite this the release of bioactive peptides has not been investigated thoroughly. The aim of this work was to characterize in detail the bioaccesible peptides from buffalo-milk dairy products. Six products were subjected to in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion and then analyzed by LC-HRMS. The identified peptides were 165 in Yoghurt, 152 in Scamorza, 146 in Mozzarella, 136 in Grana and Ricotta, 120 in Ice Cream samples, belonging to both buffalo caseins (α_s1-, β-, k-CN) and whey proteins (α-LA, β-LG). The identified peptide sequences were subjected to a database driven bioactivity search. Results highlighted a wide range of potential bioactive peptides, including antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer and antioxidant activity. These data evidence the content of healthy peptides released from buffalo-milk dairy products and suggest that the specific technological process influence their bioaccessibility.

WNT Inhibitory Activity of Malus Pumila miller cv Annurca and Malus domestica cv Limoncella Apple Extracts on Human Colon-Rectal Cells Carrying Familial Adenomatous Polyposis Mutations

Inhibitors of the Wingless-related Integration site (WNT)/β-catenin pathway have recently been under consideration as potential chemopreventive agents against Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). This autosomal-dominant syndrome is caused by germline mutations in the gene coding for the protein APC and leads to hyperactivation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, uncontrolled intestinal cell proliferation and formation of adenocarcinomas. The aim of the present work was to: (i) test, on in vitro cultures of cells carrying FAP mutations and on ex vivo biopsies of FAP patients, the WNT inhibitory activity of extracts from two common southern Italian apples, Malus pumila Miller cv. 'Annurca' and Malus domestica cv 'Limoncella'; (ii) identify the mechanisms underpinning their activities and; (iii) evaluate their potency upon gastrointestinal digestion. We here show that both Annurca and Limoncella apple extracts act as WNT inhibitors, mostly thanks to their polyphenolic contents. They inhibit the pathway in colon cells carrying FAP mutations with active dilutions falling in ranges close to consumer-relevant concentrations. Food-grade manufacturing of apple extracts increases their WNT inhibitory activity as result of the conversion of quercetin glycosides into the aglycone quercetin, a potent WNT inhibitor absent in the fresh fruit extract. However, in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion severely affected WNT inhibitory activity of apple extracts, as result of a loss of polyphenols. In conclusion, our results show that apple extracts inhibit the WNT pathway in colon cells carrying FAP mutations and represent a potential nutraceutical alternative for the treatment of this pathology. Enteric coating is advisable to preserve the activity of the extracts in the colon-rectal section of the digestive tract.

Biochemical Profile of Heritage and Modern Apple Cultivars and Application of Machine Learning Methods To Predict Usage, Age, and Harvest Season

The present study represents the first major attempt to characterize the biochemical profile in different tissues of a large selection of apple cultivars sourced from the United Kingdom's National Fruit Collection comprising dessert, ornamental, cider, and culinary apples. Furthermore, advanced machine learning methods were applied with the objective to identify whether the phenolic and sugar composition of an apple cultivar could be used as a biomarker fingerprint to differentiate between heritage and mainstream commercial cultivars as well as govern the separation among primary usage groups and harvest season. A prediction accuracy of >90% was achieved with the random forest method for all three models. The results highlighted the extraordinary phytochemical potency and unique profile of some heritage, cider, and ornamental apple cultivars, especially in comparison to more mainstream apple cultivars. Therefore, these findings could guide future cultivar selection on the basis of health-promoting phytochemical content.

Evaluation of different training systems on Annurca apple fruits revealed by agronomical, qualitative and NMR-based metabolomic approaches

Nine different training systems for "Annurca Rossa del Sud" apple fruits, including oblique palmette, free palmette, V-shaped, Tatura trellis, Bibaum®, modified Bibaum®, triple leader, slender spindle and Solaxe, were evaluated based on agronomic, qualitative and metabolomic traits. Fruits were analysed at harvest and after the reddening process. The slender spindle training system showed the highest cumulative efficiency yield compared to the others. Furthermore, an increase in the content of bioactive compounds in flesh and fruit peels was observed after the reddening process and was influenced by the different training systems. The metabolic variations in apple peel were measured and analysed. Changes in the metabolome highlight the influence of different training systems on apple quality. This multidisciplinary study expands our knowledge of the influence of training systems on a typical Italian apple cultivar.

A theoretical study on predicted protein targets of apple polyphenols and possible mechanisms of chemoprevention in colorectal cancer

We investigated the potential role of apple phenolic compounds in human pathologies by integrating chemical characterization of phenolic compounds in three apple varieties, computational approaches to identify potential protein targets of the compounds, bioinformatics analyses on data from public archive of gene expression data, and functional analyses to hypothesize the effects of the selected compounds in molecular pathways. Starting by the analytic characterization of phenolic compounds in three apple varieties, i.e. Annurca, Red Delicious, and Golden Delicious, we used computational approaches to verify by reverse docking the potential protein targets of the identified compounds. Direct docking validation of the potential protein-ligand interactions has generated a short list of human proteins potentially bound by the apple phenolic compounds. By considering the known chemo-preventive role of apple antioxidants' extracts against some human pathologies, we performed a functional analysis by comparison with experimental gene expression data and interaction networks, obtained from public repositories. The results suggest the hypothesis that chemo-preventive effects of apple extracts in human pathologies, in particular for colorectal cancer, may be the interference with the activity of nucleotide metabolism and methylation enzymes, similarly to some classes of anticancer drugs.