Extraction and characterization of three polysaccharides extracted from Opuntia ficus indica cladodes

Gamma rays irradiated polysaccharides: A review of the structure, physicochemical properties, biological activities alteration, and future food applications

Recently, there has been a growing interest in using radiation to change various properties of polysaccharides. This review gives a more detailed examination of the effects of gamma radiation on polysaccharides and its association with their techno-functional and biological properties following irradiation. Gamma irradiation is a potent tool for modifying the structure and properties of polysaccharides, enhancing their functionality in food applications. This review explores the effects of gamma irradiation on polysaccharides, focusing on changes in their molecular structure, physicochemical properties, and biological activities. Gamma irradiation induces chain scission and cross-linking in polysaccharides, leading to alterations in molecular weight, solubility, and viscosity. These structural modifications often enhance antioxidants, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities, expanding their potential use in food products. Gamma-irradiated polysaccharides exhibit improved gelation, emulsification, and film-forming abilities, making them suitable for various food applications such as thickeners, stabilizers, and edible coatings. The review also discusses the safety and regulatory aspects of using gamma-irradiated polysaccharides in food products. Future research directions are proposed to optimize irradiation conditions and further explore the multifunctional benefits of these modified polysaccharides, ultimately contributing to the development of innovative, functional food products.

Extraction, purification, structural features, biological activities, and applications of polysaccharides from Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. (cactus): a review

Cactus has attracted increasing attention from researchers due to its rich nutritional, edible, and medicinal value. Cactus contains abundant polysaccharides, polyphenols, vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and more. Among them, polysaccharides are considered as important bioactive components in cactus. In the past period, polysaccharides have been isolated from cactus through various methods and their structures have also been studied. Some in vivo and in vitro experimental results indicate that cactus polysaccharides have promoting wound healing, anti-inflammatory, immune regulation, anti-glycosylation, and antioxidant effects. This article reviews the research progress in the extraction, purification, structural characteristics, and biological activities of cactus polysaccharides in recent years. In addition, the relationship between the structure and activity of cactus polysaccharides was also discussed. This review provides important research basis and latest information for the in-depth development and application of cactus polysaccharides in multiple fields such as medicine and functional foods.

The Mucilage From the Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. Cladodes Plays an Anti-Inflammatory Role in the LPS-Stimulated HepG2 Cells: A Combined In Vitro and In Silico Approach

The effect of a mucilage extracted from Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill (OFI) cladodes was tested in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged HepG2 hepatocarcinoma cells, through a combined in vitro-in silico approach. The OFI mucilage was characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. In cells treated with OFI (5-10 µg/mL) prior to LPS (1 µg/mL, 24 h), the gene expression profile of pro-inflammatory mediators, namely tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-8, and cyclo-oxygenase-2, was significantly (p < 0.01) reduced if compared to single LPS-challenged cells. The OFI-mediated cytokines reduction was also validated in polystyrene scaffold-grown 3D HepG2 cultures, undergoing treatment with the OFI mucilage (50 µg/mL, 24 h) and LPS stimulation (50 µg/mL, 24 h). We further demonstrated that OFI suppresses the LPS-triggered inflammatory response via impairment of the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/Myeloid differentiation protein-88/Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) pathway, by interfering with NF-kB phosphorylation at Serine 536. By molecular docking approach, we provided in silico demonstration of the direct molecular interaction between the mucilage monosaccharides and the TLR4 that interferes with the LPS receptor binding and down-stream inflammatory cascade activation. We also demonstrated that OFI cladodes mucilage downregulates the TLR4 pathway, showing an anti-inflammatory potential in HepG2 cells.

Chemical composition, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities of Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. mucilage collected in Sicily, Italy

In this work the mucilage obtained from the cladodes of a not previously investigated accession of Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. (syn. Opuntia dillenii (Ker-Gawl) Haw), collected in Sicily, was analysed by 13C-NMR. The yield of mucilage extracted from cladodes in aqueous medium was 2.55%. The monosaccharides identified, after acidic hydrolyses of the mucilage, were arabinose (36.48%), galactose (32.31%), xylose (15.33%), glucose (10.45%) and rhamnose (5.40%). The mucilage showed a sufficient antimicrobial activity and excellent antioxidant property.

Extraction of Purple Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) Mucilage by Microfiltration, Composition, and Physicochemical Characteristics

Mucilages are valuable to the food industry, but the solvents used to extract and concentrate them are detrimental to the environment. Therefore, environmentally friendly technologies that preserve the properties of biopolymers and reduce the use of solvents are being sought. In this work, the mucilage of Opuntia ficus-indica (mesocarp-endocarp) was extracted by two methods: In the first one, the pulp from the mesocarp-endocarp was extracted by ethanol precipitation and centrifugation cycles, then dried at room temperature. For the second, the pulp was processed in a three-step tangential microfiltration process: microfiltration (separation), diafiltration (purification), and concentration. The mucilages obtained differed significantly (p < 0.05) in color, betalains, total sugars, and proteins. The proportions of insoluble and soluble dietary fiber were similar. GC/MS analysis identified seven neutral sugars and a high content of uronic acids (31.3% in the microfiltered mucilage and 47.5% in the ethanol-precipitated mucilage). These show a low degree of esterification, which gives them a polar and hydrophilic character and the possibility of interacting with divalent ions through the carboxylic acid groups, which could form gels stabilized by an egg-box mechanism, with application as a thickening, stabilizing, gelling, or film-forming agent for foods with low sugar content.

Optimizing the microwave-assisted hydrothermal extraction of pectin from tangerine by-product and its physicochemical, structural, and functional properties

Microwave-assisted hydrothermal extraction (MAHE) was optimized using a Box-Behnken design (BBD) of the response surface methodology (RSM) for optimal recovery of pectin from tangerine peel (TPP). The effects of three factors (pH, irradiation time and temperature) on extraction yield (EY), galacturonic acid content (GAC) and degree of esterification (DE) of pectin were investigated. The optimal extraction conditions were as follows: pH 1.7, irradiation time 12 min and temperature 109 °C. Under these conditions, the EY, GAC and DE were 30.4, 72.3 and 45.2%, respectively. The low methoxyl content of MHAE (45.2%) compared to CE is confirmed by the 1H NMR and FTIR spectra, and the emulsifying activity is 57.65% and 50.56% for CE and MHAE, respectively. The total phenolic content (TPC) of pectin produced using MAHE is 41.2 mg GAE/g, thus indicating higher antioxidant properties compared to pectin produced with CE, which had a TPC of 38.4 mg GAE/g. In addition, the X-ray diffraction (XRD) and surface morphological analysis (SEM) results showed that TPP had a rough surface and crystalline structure. Overall, our findings show that TTP from MAHE can be used as a natural antioxidant ingredient in the functional food and pharmaceutical industries.

Physicochemical, structural, and biological properties of novel water-soluble polysaccharide derived from the Tunisian Hammada scoparia plant and its application on beef meat preservation

This work aims to characterize a novel water-soluble polysaccharide from Hammada scoparia leaves named PSP. The Infrared (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra confirmed the presence of different polysaccharide functional bands. The High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis identified a heteropolysaccharide composed of two monosaccharides. A semi-crystalline structure of PSP was proved using the X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis. The evaluation of the antioxidant activity revealed an interesting potential to prevent oxidative stress. Additionally, PSP showed interesting functional propreties such as good oil and water retention abilities, higher foaming stability, and higher emulsifying capacity and stability. However, the effect of PSP on the oxidation of lipids in the ground beef meat was established during nine days at 4 °C. Obtained data revealed a significant decrease in malondialdehyde levels, inhibition of metmyoglobin (MetMb) accumulation, and significant inhibition of microbial growth compared with the control sample during storage. Moreover, incorporating PSP in minced meat proved color pH and moisture stability. Overall, the findings in the present study confirmed that PSP could be considered a natural bioactive polymer for food applications.

Storage Potential of Cactus Mucilage Powder for Incorporation into Foods and Production of Biopolymeric Films

The objective was to investigate the physicochemical stability of stored cactus pear mucilage and assess the technological feasibility to produce polymeric films. Mucilage of cactus pear species Nopalea cochenillifera (L.) Salm-Dyck MIU and Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw-OEM was extracted and stored for 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 months in the absence of light at a temperature of 26.5 °C and relative humidity of 41.3%. At each storage time, polymeric films were produced using hydrated mucilage (4%, weight-w/volume-(v)), glycerol (60%, v/v), and calcium lactate (2%, w/v). Among the species, MIU stood out due to its higher water and oil retention, but it also presented higher levels of phenolic compounds, and more intense peaks in Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR) analysis. On the other hand, OEM is richer in carbohydrates, denser, and electrically conductive. The characteristics highlighted for each species are also observed in the principal component analysis (PCA). Both species are equally soluble in water, and more than 60% of their granules have a diameter of 250 mm. The resulting films of MIU exhibited increased resistance and permeability but were less soluble and transparent. Microscopically, greater homogeneity was observed, and the films were thicker, whitish, and thermally stable. Both species have the potential for producing polymeric films with various applications in the food industry, particularly as edible coatings.

Improving the shelf life of minced beef by Cystoseira compressa polysaccharide during storage

A polysaccharide extracted from the brown alga Cystoseira compressa (CCPS) was evaluated as a food additive to extend the shelf-life of raw beef meat. The antioxidant potential of CCPS was demonstrated by its inhibition of β-carotene bleaching (64.28 %), superoxide radicals (70.12 %), and hydroxyl radicals (93 %) at a concentration of 10 mg/ml. The polysaccharide also showed antibacterial activity with MIC values between 6.25 mg/ml and 50 mg/ml against five foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, CCPS exhibited excellent functional, foaming, and emulsifying properties. Furthermore, microbiological and chemical effects of CCPS at concentrations equivalent to 1 MIC (CCPS-1), 2 MIC (CCPS-2), and 4 MIC (CCPS-3) were conducted. Chemical analyses showed that treated beef had significantly reduced TBARS levels below 2 mg MDA/kg at day 14. The treatment also decreased carbonyl groups, improved heme iron transformation, inhibited microbial growth (p < 0.05), and kept MetMb levels below 40 % by day 14. Moreover, two multivariate approaches, principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), were effectively used to analyze the results characterizing the main attributes of the stored meat samples. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that CCPS could be employed as a functional and bioactive component in the meat industry.

Development of biodegradable film from cactus (Opuntia Ficus Indica) mucilage loaded with acid-leached kaolin as filler

Nowadays, substituting petroleum-based plastics with biodegradable polymers made from polysaccharides loaded with various reinforcing materials has recently gained attention due to the impact of conventional plastics wastes. In this study, polysaccharidic mucilage from Ethiopian cactus (Opuntia Ficus Indica) was derived using microwave-assisted extraction technique to develop biodegradable polymers that were inexpensive, readily available, simple to make, and ecofriendly. The effect of microwave power 300-800 W, solid-liquid (cactus-sodium hydroxide solution) ratio 1:5-1:25, sodium hydroxide concentration 0.1-0.8 mol/L, and extraction time 2-10 min on mucilage extraction were studied and the maximum yield of mucilage was attained at optimized parameters of 506 W, 1:20, 0.606 mol/L, and 9.5 min, respectively. Biodegradable polymers made with mucilage alone have poor mechanical characteristics and are thermally unstable. Thus, to overcome the stated problems, glycerol as a plasticizer and acid-leached kaolin crosslinked with urea as a reinforcing material were used. Moreover, the effect of acid-leached kaolin and glycerol on the physico-chemical properties of the films was studied, and a maximum tensile strength of 6.74 MPa with 18.45 % elongation at break, thermally improved biodegradability of 26 %, were attained at 10 % acid-leached kaolin and 20 % glycerol crosslinking with 2 % urea. But the maximum degradability of 53.5 % was attained at 30 % glycerol content. The control and reinforced biodegradable films were characterized using TGA, FTIR, SEM, and XRD to determine the thermal, functional group, morphology, and crystallinity of the bioplastics, respectively. These biodegradable plastics may be used for packaging application.

Effect of Organic Acid-Aided Extraction on Characteristics and Functional Properties of Pectin from Cannabis sativa L

The extraction of cannabinoids from the inflorescence and leaves of Cannabis sativa L. is gaining interest from researchers, in addition to addressing the under-utilization of the by-products in the stems and roots of the trees. The present study investigated the recovery of pectin from the left-over parts of hemp tress using an eco-friendly method with the aid of organic acids. Different cannabis cultivars-Chalotte's Angels (CHA) and Hang-Krarog (HKR)-were used as plant materials. The stems of both cannabis cultivars contained more pectin than the roots, and tartaric acid-aided extraction provided higher yields than from citric acid. Extracting the acid solution affected some characteristics, thereby differentiating the functional properties of the derived pectin. Extraction using tartaric acid provided pectin with a higher galacturonic acid content, whereas pectin with a higher methylation degree could be prepared using citric acid. The pectin samples extracted from the stems of CHA (P-CHA) and HKR (P-HKR) had low methoxyl pectin. P-CHA had better free radical scavenging capability, whereas P-HKR showed more potent reducibility. Considering the functional properties, P-CHA showed greater emulsion formability and foaming activity, whereas P-HKR possessed a better thickening effect. The present work suggests the feasible utilization of P-CHA and P-HKR as food additives with bioactivity.

Anti-Vasculogenic, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Sulfated Polysaccharide Derived from Codium tomentosum: Pharmacokinetic Assay

The purpose of this paper was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic activities of sulfated polysaccharide from C. tomentosum (PCT) using carrageenan (CARR)-induced paw edema in a rat model and anti-vasculogenic activity on a chorioallantoic membrane assay (CAM) model. Based on in vitro tests of anti-radical, total antioxidant, and reducing power activities, PCT presents a real interest via its antioxidant activity and ability to scavenge radical species. The in vivo pharmacological tests suggest that PCT possesses anti-inflammatory action by reducing paw edema and leukocyte migration, maintaining the redox equilibrium, and stabilizing the cellular level of several pro-/antioxidant system markers. It could significantly decrease the malondialdehyde levels and increase superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione activities in local paw edema and erythrocytes during the acute inflammatory reaction of CARR. PCT pretreatment was effective against DNA alterations in the blood lymphocytes of inflamed rats and reduced the hematological alteration by restoring blood parameters to normal levels. The anti-angiogenic activity results revealed that CAM neovascularization, defined as the formation of new vessel numbers and branching patterns, was decreased by PCT in a dose-dependent manner, which supported the in silico bioavailability and pharmacokinetic findings. These results indicated the therapeutic effects of polysaccharides from C. tomentosum and their possible use as anti-proliferative molecules based on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenic activities.

Comparative study on chain conformations, physicochemical and rheological properties of three acidic polysaccharides from Opuntia dillenii Haw. fruits

In this study, three acidic polysaccharides (OFPP-1, OFPP-2 and OFPP-3) were isolated from the pulps of Opuntia dillenii Haw. fruits, and their chain conformations, physicochemical and rheological properties were investigated. The molecular weight and conformational parameters (Mw, Mn, Mz, Rg and Rh) of OFPPs in 0.1 M NaNO3 solution were detected by HPSEC-MALLS-RI. In addition, based on the parameters ρ and v, it was concluded that these three polysaccharide chains exhibited sphere-like conformation in 0.1 M NaNO3 solution, which was consistent with AFM and TEM observations. Furthermore, the Congo Red experiment showed that OFPP-2 had a triple-helix structure, which may be conducive to its biological activity. This study also found that OFPPs were semi-crystalline structures with high thermal and pH stability. The rheological analyses indicated that the apparent viscosity of OFPPs solutions exhibited concentration-, temperature-, and pH-dependence, and the viscoelasticity of them was affected by molecular characteristics and concentration. The results of this study are helpful to elucidate the structure-activity relationship of OFPPs. Moreover, this study can provide theoretical reference for the application of OFPPs as bioactive ingredients or functional materials in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries and the development and utilization of the O. dillenii Haw. fruits resource.

The Effect of Opuntia ficus Mucilage Pectin and Citrus aurantium Extract Added to a Food Matrix on the Gut Microbiota of Lean Humans and Humans with Obesity

Experimental studies have provided evidence that physicochemical interactions in the food matrix can modify the biologically beneficial effects of bioactive compounds, including their effect on gut microbiota. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of a food gel matrix with Opuntia ficus cladodes mucilage pectin and Citrus Aurantium extract on the growth of four beneficial gut bacteria obtained from the fecal microbiota of people who are lean or who have obesity after digestion in the upper digestive system. To accomplish this, a base formulation of Opuntia ficus cladodes mucilage with or without C. aurantium extract was submitted to an ex vivo fecal fermentation in an automatic and robotic intestinal system. The changes in the intestinal microbiota were determined by means of plate culture and 16S sequencing, while short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) produced in the colon were determined via gas chromatography. In the presence of the extract in formulation, greater growth of Bifidobacterium spp. (+1.6 Log10 Colonic Forming Unit, UFC) and Lactobacillus spp. (+2 Log10 UFC) in the microbiota of lean people was observed. Only the growth in Salmonella spp. (-1 Log10 UFC) from both microbiota was affected in the presence of the extract, which decreased in the ascending colon. SCFA was mainly produced by the microbiota of people who were lean rather than those who had obesity in the presence of the extract, particularly in the ascending colon. The effect of sour orange extract seems to depend on the origin of the microbiota, whether in people who have obesity (25 mM/L) or are lean (39 mM/L).

Structural Characteristics and Multiple Bioactivities of Volvariella volvacea Polysaccharide Extracts: The Role of Extractive Solvents

The chemical structures and functional properties of plant-based polysaccharides are critically influenced by extractive solvents, but their roles are not clear. In this study, the structural characteristics and multiple bioactivities of Volvariella volvacea polysaccharides (VVPs) subjected to water (VVP-W), alkalis (sodium hydroxide, VVP-A), and acids (citric acid, VVP-C) as extractive solvents are investigated systematically. Of the above three polysaccharides, VVP-W exhibited the highest molecular weights, apparent viscosity, and viscoelastic properties. Functional analyses revealed that VVP-C had an excellent water-holding capacity, foaming properties, and emulsifying capacity, while VVP-A exhibited a promising oil-holding capacity. Moreover, VVP-C displayed strong inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, which could be attributed to its content of total phenolics, proteins, and molecular weights. These findings have important implications for selecting the appropriate extraction techniques to obtain functional polysaccharides with targeted bioactive properties as food additives.

Biodegradable composite films based on mucilage from Opuntia ficus-indica (Cactaceae): Microstructural, functional and thermal properties

This study evaluated the feasibility of using cactus mucilage (CM) to elaborate biobased composite films blended with styrene-butadiene rubber latex (SBL). The CM was extracted and precipitated with ethanol (CMET) and isopropanol (CMIS). Mucilage-based films were formulated using three levels of mucilage (4, 6, and 8 wt%). The microstructure, thickness, moisture content, density, water contact angle, water vapor permeability, film solubility, thermal stability, and toughness of mucilage films blended with SBL (SBL/CMET and SBL/CMIS) were measured. The properties of mucilage-based films varied systematically, depending on the concentration of mucilage. The addition of SBL to CM film produces compatible, hydrophobic, flexible, and stiffer films with low moisture contents and good barrier properties. The mucilage film incorporated with 6 wt% CMET and CMIS reached the highest Young's modulus of 1512 ± 21 and 1988 ± 55 MPa, respectively. The DSC of produced films reveals that the Tg of SBL/CMIS is lower than that of SBL/CMIS. The synthesized films were structurally stable at high temperatures. The biodegradability of the composite films buried in the ground shows that the produced films are 100 % biodegradable after 40 days. Thus, CM blended with SBL can benefit specific applications, especially food packaging.

Mitigation of Hepatic Impairment with Polysaccharides from Red Alga Albidum corallinum Supplementation through Promoting the Lipid Profile and Liver Homeostasis in Tebuconazole-Exposed Rats

Sulfated polysaccharides from seaweed are highly active natural substances with valuable applications. In the present paper, attempts have been made to discuss the physicochemical and structural features of polysaccharides isolated from red marine alga Alsidium corallinum (ACPs) and their protective effect in hepatic impairments induced by tebuconazole (TEB) in male adult rats. Structural features were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography, Fourier-transformed infrared, and solid-state 1H and 13C-Nuclear magnetic resonance analysis. ACPs are found to be hetero-sulfated-anionic polysaccharides that contain carbohydrates, sulfate groups, and uronic acids. In vitro biological activities suggested the effective antioxidant and antimicrobial capacities of ACPs. For antioxidant testing in vivo, the biochemical analysis and plasma profiles displayed that oral administration of ACPs could mitigate blood lipid indicators, including total cholesterol, triglyceride, low and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and bilirubin. Liver function indexes involving alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase showed that ACPs possessed prominent antioxidant activities. Additionally, the intervention of ACPs potentially inhibited lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, key enzymes of lipid metabolism (<0.001), and improved antioxidant status (<0.05). Histomorphological observation confirmed that ACPs intervention could partially repair liver injuries caused by TEB. The computational results showed that A. corallinum monosaccharides bound 1JIJ, 1HD2, and 1WL4 receptors with acceptable affinities, which, together with deep embedding and molecular interactions, support the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hypolipidemic outlined effects in the in vitro and in vivo findings. Given their prominent antioxidant effects, ACPs are promising candidates for liver diseases and must be considered in pharmaceutical applications.

Microencapsulation of Betaxanthin Pigments from Pitahaya (Hylocereus megalanthus) By-Products: Characterization, Food Application, Stability, and In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion

The yellow pitahaya peels generated as by-products during the consumption and processing of the fresh fruit are a rich and underutilized source of betaxanthins (natural yellow-orange pigment with antioxidant activity) and mucilage (structuring material used in the spray-drying process), molecules of high interest for the food industry. In this work, the betaxanthin-rich extract (BRE) obtained from this by-product was microencapsulated by spray drying (SD) using pitahaya peel mucilage (MPP) and maltodextrin (MD) as wall materials. Both types of microencapsulates (i.e., SD-MPP and SD-MD) retained high betaxanthin content (as measured by UV-vis) and antioxidant activity (ORAC). These microencapsulates were characterized structurally (FTIR and zeta potential), morphologically (SEM and particle size/polydispersity index), and thermally (DSC/TGA). The powdered microencapsulates were incorporated into the formulation of candy gummies as a food model, which were subjected to an in vitro gastrointestinal digestion process. The characterization study (FTIR and antioxidant activity) of the microcapsules showed that the fruit peel mucilage favors the retention of betaxanthins, while the SEM analysis revealed a particle size of multimodal distribution and heterogeneous morphology. The addition of SD-MPP microcapsules in the candy gummy formulation favored the total dietary fiber content as well as the gumminess and chewiness of the food matrix; however, the inhibition of AAPH^• (%) was affected. The stability of the yellow color in the gummies after 30 days of storage indicates its suitability for storage. Consequently, the microencapsulation of betaxanthins with pitahaya peel mucilage can be used as a food additive colorant in the food industry, replacing synthetic colorants, to develop products with beneficial qualities for health that can satisfy the growing demand of consumers.

Alleviation of Shade Stress in Chinese Yew (Taxus chinensis) Seedlings with 5-Aminolevulinic Acid (ALA)

5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is a novel regulator that can promote plant growth, nitrogen uptake, and abiotic stress tolerance. Its underlying mechanisms, however, have not been fully investigated. In this study, the effects of ALA on morphology, photosynthesis, antioxidant systems, and secondary metabolites in two cultivars of 5-year-old Chinese yew (Taxus chinensis) seedlings, 'Taihang' and 'Fujian', were examined under shade stress (30% light for 30 days) using different doses of ALA (0, 30, and 60 mg/L). The findings from our study show that shade stress significantly reduced plant height, stem thickness, and crown width and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. However, the application of 30 mg/L ALA effectively mitigated these effects, which further induced the activity of antioxidant enzymes under shade stress, resulting in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) being increased by 10%, 16.4%, and 42.1%, and 19.8%, 20.1%, and 42% in 'Taihang' and 'Fujian', respectively. It also promoted their role in the absorption, conversion, and efficient use of light energy. Additionally, the use of 30 mg/L ALA caused a significant increase in the concentration of secondary metabolites, including polysaccharide (PC), carotenoid (CR), and flavonoids (FA), with increases of up to 46.1%, 13.4%, and 35.6% and 33.5%, 7.5%, and 57.5% in both yew cultivars, respectively, contributing to nutrient uptake. With ALA treatment, the yew seedlings showed higher chlorophyll (total chlorophyll, chlorophyll a and b) levels and photosynthesis rates than the seedlings that received the shade treatment alone. To conclude, the application of 30 mg/L ALA alleviated shade stress in yew seedlings by maintaining redox balance, protecting the photorespiratory system, and increasing organic metabolites, thus increasing the number of new branches and shoots and significantly promoting the growth of the seedlings. Spraying with ALA may be a sustainable strategy to improve the shade-resistant defense system of yew. As these findings increase our understanding of this shade stress response, they may have considerable implications for the domestication and cultivation of yew.

Opuntia spp.: An Overview of the Bioactive Profile and Food Applications of This Versatile Crop Adapted to Arid Lands

Opuntia spp. are crops well adapted to adverse environments and have great economic potential. Their constituents, including fruits, cladodes, and flowers, have a high nutritional value and are rich in value-added compounds. Cladodes have an appreciable content in dietary fiber, as well as bioactive compounds such as kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin. Fruits are a major source of bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids and vitamin C. The seeds are mainly composed of unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. The flowers are also rich in phenolic compounds. Therefore, in addition to their traditional uses, the different plant fractions can be processed to meet multiple applications in the food industry. Several bakery products have been developed with the incorporation of cladode flour. Pectin and mucilage obtained from cladodes can act as edible films and coatings. Fruits, fruit extracts, and fruit by-products have been mixed into food products, increasing their antioxidant capacity and extending their shelf life. Betalains, obtained from fruits, can be used as food colorants and demonstrate promising applications as a sensor in food packaging. This work reviews the most valuable components of the different fractions of this plant and emphasizes its most recent food applications, demonstrating its outstanding value.

Extraction, Characterization, and Antioxidant Activity of Polysaccharides from Ajwa Seed and Flesh

The date palm has been cultivated in dry and hot areas of the planet for much of human history. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, dates are the main crop used as a source of food. Among several species of date fruits, the Ajwa AL-Madinah date is unique, growing only in Al-Madinah geographical region. The Ajwa date is used in traditional medicine due to its abundant active components and therapeutic properties. This study investigates the structural properties and the antioxidant effects of water-soluble polysaccharides extracted from Ajwa flesh and seed. The polysaccharides were isolated by two techniques including hot water and ultrasonic extraction. After isolation and partial purification, the physicochemical properties of four samples of polysaccharides extracted from flesh and seed were studied by several techniques including FTIR, solid-state NMR, elemental analysis, and mass spectrometry. Several radical scavenging experiments were combined to study the antioxidant activity of the polysaccharide compounds. FTIR and NMR results showed a structure typical of heterogeneous polysaccharides. Mass spectrometry revealed that the polysaccharide samples were composed mainly of mannose, glucose, galactose, xylose, arabinose, galacturonic acid, and fucose. In addition, the physicochemical properties and composition of polysaccharides extracted from flesh and seed were compared. The extracted polysaccharides showed antioxidant activity, with 2, 2′-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging, Fe chelating ability, hydroxyl free radical scavenging ability, and 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging. These results highlight their potential to be a useful nutritional element or supplemental medication.

Blends of Cactus Cladode Powder with Corn Starch, Milk Proteins and Gelatin: Rheological Evaluation and Application to a Soup Model

Cactus cladodes (Opuntia ficus-indica) is a valuable source of dietary fibers. In this study, peeled cladode powder was produced by air drying at 40 °C and was characterized for its color, dietary fiber content, and rheological behavior. Cladode powder aqueous suspensions of 3% w/w were prepared and the effect of protein (gelatin, sodium caseinate, and whey protein) or salts (NaCl/CaCl2) on the blend’s viscosity was investigated. Additionally, cladode powder was incorporated in a soup model, aiming at substituting corn starch. Our powder had an appealing green color, but its deterioration was fast when it was exposed to light. A shear-thinning behavior was observed in all cladode-protein mixtures, but viscosity values depended considerably on the protein type and the pH values. Notably, gelatin addition led to higher apparent viscosity of cladode powder at pH 6, suggesting interactions with cladode mucilage, but this effect was reversed at pH 4, below gelatin isoelectric point. The Ostwald-de Waele model successfully correlated viscosity-shear rates data, whereas the Casson model presented a good fit mainly in starch containing systems. Corn starch substitution by cladode powder, in the soup model, led to lower consistency coefficient values. In soups, the logarithmic mixing law was applied at different corn starch: cladode powder ratios to highlight their possible interactions. The values obtained diverged slightly downwards from the logarithmic mixing law. When purified mucilage was added—instead of cladode powder—the samples diverged slightly upwards from the logarithmic mixing law.

Current trends in cacti drying processes and their effects on cellulose and mucilage from two Colombian cactus species

The effect of temperature and drying technologies on mucilage and cellulose (obtained by the microwave-assisted extraction technique, MAE) from Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) and Austrocylindropuntia cylindrica (CC) was determined using a conventional oven (CO) and Refractive Window (RW). Mathematical modeling was performed from drying kinetics data using the Lewis, Henderson-Pabis, Page, and Logarithmic models. Activation Energy (Ea) and Diffusivity (D) were also determined. The model with the best fit was the logarithmic one, with a correlation coefficient (R²) greater than 0.99. The obtained activation energies were 22.81 kJ mol^-1 for Refractance window (RW) and 31.44 kJ mol^-1 using conventional hot air drying (CO) while a diffusivity of 2.9 ∗10^-8 m² s^-1 for RW and 1.3∗10^-8 m² s^-1 for CO were found as well. According to our results, a greater drying efficiency and a less chemical deterioration of the plant sample are obtained by drying with Refractance window.

Effects of Concentration and Heating/Cooling Rate on Rheological Behavior of Sesamum indicum Seed Hydrocolloid

Hydrocolloids are known as natural hydrophilic biopolymers that can contribute viscosity and gelation in solution, as well as nutritional benefits, thus, they are widely used in the food industry. In our work, hydrocolloid was isolated by aqueous extraction of Sesamum indicum seed at 80 °C and pH 8.0. The chemical composition and functional properties of Sesamum indicum seed hydrocolloid (SISH) were characterized, and the effects of concentration including 1%, 2%, and 3% as well as heating/cooling rate (1, 5, and 10 °C/min) on the rheological behavior of SISH dispersions in aqueous solution were investigated. The viscoelastic properties of SISH dispersions were characterized by small-amplitude oscillatory shear measurement. The resultant SISH consisted of 60.95% carbohydrate and 23.32% protein, and was thus endowed with a relatively high water-holding capacity, solubility, appropriate emulsifying and foaming properties. Rheological results revealed that the aqueous dispersion of SISH exhibited a non-Newtonian shear-thinning flow behavior. The viscoelastic moduli changes were found to be dependent on SISH concentration, temperature, and heating/cooling rate. Increasing SISH concentrations from 1% to 3% promoted the development of stronger cross-link network. The mechanical spectra derived from strain and frequency sweep measurements showed that the storage moduli were always higher than the loss moduli, and the loss tangent was calculated to be above 0.1 and below 1.0. Furthermore, both moduli had slight frequency dependency, and the complex viscosity exhibited an almost linear reduction with the increase of frequency. Therefore, SISH dispersion behaved as a weak gel-like system. The hysteresis of viscoelastic moduli during heating and cooling reduced with decreasing the heating-cooling rates from 10 to 1 °C/min, suggesting that SISH molecules had enough time to develop a stable and thermally irreversible network. Overall, SISH can be regarded as an acceptable hydrocolloid for generating natural food components with intriguing functional and rheological qualities in the formulation of microstructured goods.

Principle and Application of Steam Explosion Technology in Modification of Food Fiber

Steam explosion is a widely used hydrothermal pretreatment method, also known as autohydrolysis, which has become a popular pretreatment method due to its lower energy consumption and lower chemical usage. In this review, we summarized the technical principle of steam explosion, and its definition, modification and application in dietary fiber, which have been explored by researchers in recent years. The principle and application of steam explosion technology in the modification of food dietary fiber were analyzed. The change in dietary fiber structure; physical, chemical, and functional characteristics; the advantages and disadvantages of the method; and future development trends were discussed, with the aim to strengthen the economic value and utilization of plants with high dietary fiber content and their byproducts.

Extraction, Characterization, and Structure of a Novel Heteropolysaccharide from Lepidium sativum and Its Effects on Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats

The present study undertakes the extraction of a novel polysaccharide from Lepidium sativum (PLS) and the determination of its physicochemical composition and antioxidant properties, as well as its potential wound healing activity in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. This polysaccharide presented a lighter natural color, whose luminosity (L∗), red-green intensity (a∗), and blue-yellow intensity (b∗) were recorded at 63.26, 5.87, and 27.28, respectively. The PLS was structurally characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, UV spectrum, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC), nuclear resonance magnetic (NMR), and high-pressure gel filtration chromatography. The FT-IR and UV spectra showed the characteristic band of polysaccharides. According to HPLC, the crude PLS is a heteropolysaccharide composed of glucose, xylose, and galactose. Results obtained by ¹H NMR indicated that PLS consisted of three monosaccharide residues with α and β anomers. This novel polysaccharide had an average molecular weight of 98.51 kDa and displayed potential antioxidant activities determined through three different assays: scavenging activity against 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay, and reducing power. These results strongly support the beneficial effects of the PLS to accelerate wound healing in diabetic rats. Indeed, its application significantly increased wound contraction percentage (98 ± 1.11%) after 14 days of experiment. Furthermore, the histological assessment of the PLS-treated group demonstrated complete reepithelialized wounds by accelerating collagen synthesis. In general, the findings affirmed that PLS is efficient on wound closure in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.

Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of novel heteropolysaccharide isolated from Lobularia maritima on CCl4-induced liver injury in rats

The aim of the present study was to investigate the extraction and the characterization of a novel heteropolysaccharide from Tunisian halophyte Lobularia maritima (LmPS). We were also interested in its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury in rats. LmPS physicochemical properties were evaluated by thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and UV absorption. According to TLC and HPLC results, LmPS was a heteropolysaccharide composed of glucose, galactose, and xylose. Its molecular weight was 130.62 kDa. This heteropolysaccharide was characterized by a significant antioxidant potential and was efficient against oxidative stress and CCL4-induced hepatotoxicity in rat Wistar models (n = 8) treated with a single dose of LmPS 250 mg/kg of body weight. This was evidenced by a significant increase in serum marker enzymes specially aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The cytokines released after stimulation of rats with LmPS showed high anti-inflammatory profiles with an increased rate of interleukine-10 (IL-10) with 0.03 pg/mL compared to animals treated only with CCl4. On the contrary, we noticed a decrease of the other cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α: TNF-α, interleukine-6: IL-6, transforming growth factor beta 1: TGF-β1) with average concentration values of <0.2, 0.1, and 0.04 pg/mL, respectively. Besides, histopathological examinations revealed that CCl4 causes acute liver damage, characterized by extensive hepatocellular necrosis, vacuolization, and inflammatory cell infiltration, as well as DNA fragmentation. LmPS administration at a dose of 250 mg/kg resulted in a significant hepatoprotection, evidenced by a reduction of CCl4-induced oxidative damage for all tested markers. These findings eagerly confirmed that LmPS was effective in the protection against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity and genotoxicity. It, therefore, suggested a potential therapeutic use of this polysaccharide as an alternative medicine for patients with acute liver diseases.

Characterization, Antioxidant Activities, and Functional Properties of Mucilage Extracted from Corchorus olitorius L

This study extracted the mucilage from Corchorus olitorius L. to observe its chemical and functional properties and suggest its possible applications in various fields. Corchorus olitorius L. mucilage was isolated by hot water extraction. FT-IR and HPAEC-PAD were used to describe the chemical composition, and the functional properties and antioxidant activities of the mucilage were also examined. The mucilage was mainly composed of uronic acid (34.24%, w/w). The solubility was 79.48 ± 1.08% at 65 °C, the swelling index was 29.01 ± 2.54% at 25 °C, and the water-holding capacity and oil-binding capacity were 28.66 ± 1.48 and 8.423 ± 0.23 g/g, respectively. The mucilage viscosity increased from 4.38 to 154.97 cP in a concentration-dependent manner. Increasing the concentration decreased the emulsion activity and increased the emulsion stability, most likely because of the corresponding increase in surface tension and viscosity. Results from antioxidant assays confirmed that the in-vitro radical scavenging activity of the mucilage increased with concentration. This study shows that C. olitorius L. can be utilized as a new hydrocolloid source, with potential applications in fields ranging from foods to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Physicochemical and structural properties of dietary fiber from Rosa roxburghii pomace by steam explosion

Rosa roxburghii pomace was treated by steam explosion (SE) at 0.87 MPa for 97 s. After SE treatment, the Insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) content of Rosa roxburghii pomace decreased from 45.13 ± 0.23 to 30.01 ± 0.15%, and the soluble dietary fiber (SDF) content increased from 9.31 ± 0.07 to 15.82 ± 0.31%. The structure of IDF and SDF after SE showed that the original compact structures were destroyed, and the specific surface areas increased. Thermal analysis showed that the thermal stability of the modified SDF was improved. However, SE did not change the crystal structure and functional group composition of IDF and SDF. Physicochemical analysis indicated that IDF had better hydration capacity after SE treatment, and the oil-holding capacities of IDF and SDF were also significantly improved. SE is an effective method to improve the utilization of Rosa roxburghii pomace and a feasible method for modification of dietary fiber.

Sulfated exopolysaccharides from Porphyridium cruentum: A useful strategy to extend the shelf life of minced beef meat

Sulfated exopolysaccharides (EPS) from Porphyridium cruentum strain were extracted and their antioxidant and anti-bacterial potentials were evaluated based on DPPH free radical, ABTS^•+ radical cation and DNA nicking assays, and against four foodborne pathogenic bacteria, respectively. They showed also interesting functional, foaming and emulsion properties. Moreover, microbiological and chemical effects of EPS at 0.5, 1 and 2% on refrigerated minced beef meat were undertaken. Chemical analyses revealed that the treated meat underwent significant decrease (P < 0.05) of primary and secondary lipid oxidation. By the end of the storage period, exopolysaccharides at 2% reduced the metmyoglobin and carbonyl group accumulation compared to control samples and were more efficient (P < 0.05) against microflora proliferation. Furthermore, two multivariate exploratory techniques namely Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) were applied successfully to all obtained data describing the main characteristics attributed to refrigerated meat samples. Overall, these findings indicated that EPS from P. cruentum are worthy being developed as functional and bioactive components for the meat industry.

Influence of age on molecular characteristics and rheological behavior of nopal mucilage

Nopal mucilages are of interest due to a variety of potential applications, which include their use as thickeners and rheological modifiers. In this work, changes in molecular characteristics of nopal mucilages with their age and its influence on the rheological behavior of their solutions were analyzed by light scattering, high performance liquid chromatography, a colorimetric method, and linear viscoelastic rheometrical measurements. For this, mucilages obtained from cladodes from Opuntia ficus-indica with different ages, namely 20, 80, and 600 days, respectively, were extracted using water as solvent and then subjected to freeze-drying. The weight-average molecular weight (M w) of the mucilages was found to increase along with the age; meanwhile, the concentration of uronic acids increased and the galactose, rhamnose, and xylose contents decreased. Increasing M w with age resulted in enhanced viscoelastic behavior of solutions, namely, higher viscosity and elasticity at lower mucilage concentrations. Also, along with increasing M w, decrease in neutral sugar contents and increase of pectic compounds (uronic acids) and Ca+ cations in mucilages with age promoted formation of weak gels. Overall, the molecular weights and rheological behaviors reported in this work for nopal mucilages are comparable to those of widely used thickeners such as xanthan and guar gums, which suggest their use in similar applications regarding its age.

Cell proliferative properties of Forcespinning® nopal composite nanofibers

In this study, Forcespinning® was used to produce nanofibers composed of Opuntia cochenillifera, “nopal,” mucilage (N) extract, chitosan (CH), and pullulan (PL) (N/CH/PL). These nopal-incorporating nanofibers were examined for their ability to sustain adhesion and proliferation of mouse embryonic fibroblast (NIH 3T3) cells. After a 6-day incubation period, N/CH/PL nanofibers displayed robust cell proliferation, with continued cell growth after an extended incubation period of 14 days. These results demonstrate that natural bioactive compounds can be combined with biodegradable polymers to provide an enhanced environment for cell growth, suggesting potential natural active ingredients as alternatives in wound dressings.

Physicochemical Characterization of an Exopolysaccharide Produced by Lipomyces sp. and Investigation of Rheological and Interfacial Behavior

The present study aimed to evaluate the rheological and interfacial behaviors of a novel microbial exopolysaccharide fermented by L. starkeyi (LSEP). The structure of LSEP was measured by LC-MS, ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectra, and FT-IR. Results showed that the monosaccharide composition of LSEP was D-mannose (8.53%), D-glucose (79.25%), D-galactose (7.15%), and L-arabinose (5.07%); there existed the anomeric proton of α-configuration and the anomeric carbon of α- and β-configuration; there appeared the characteristic absorption peak of the phosphate ester bond. The molecular weight of LSEP was 401.8 kDa. The water holding capacity (WHC, 2.10 g/g) and oil holding capacity (OHC, 12.89 g/g) were also evaluated. The results of rheological properties showed that the aqueous solution of LSEP was a non-Newtonian fluid, exhibiting the shear-thinning characteristics. The adsorption of LSEP can reduce the interfacial tension (11.64 mN/m) well and form an elastic interface layer at the MCT–water interface. Such functional properties make LSEP a good candidate for use as thickener, gelling agent, and emulsifier to form long-term emulsions for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products.

Comparative Analysis of the Chemical Composition and Physicochemical Properties of the Mucilage Extracted from Fresh and Dehydrated Opuntia ficus indica Cladodes

The development of sustainable extraction methods to obtain natural products constitutes a challenge for the food industry. The aim of this work was to compare yield, separation efficiency, chemical composition, and physicochemical properties of the mucilage extracted from fresh cladodes (FNM) and mucilage extracted from dehydrated cladodes (DNM) of O. ficus indica. Suspensions of fresh and dehydrated cladodes (4% w/w) were prepared for mucilage extraction by using a mechanical separation process. Subsequently, the separated mucilage was precipitated with ethyl alcohol (1:2 v/v) then, yield and separation efficiency were determined. The mucilage was characterized by measuring Z potential, viscosity, color, and texture attributes. Additionally, chemical proximate analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were conducted. No significant differences (p < 0.05) were detected in the yield and separation efficiencies between samples. Nevertheless, the dehydration process of cladodes prior to mucilage extraction increased protein, ashes, nitrogen free extract, and calcium content. The viscosity was higher in DNM than in FNM. The TGA revealed a different thermal behavior between samples. In addition, the DNM showed lower L (darkness/lightness), cohesiveness, adhesiveness, and springiness values than those of FNM. These results support that differences found between the chemical and physicochemical properties of DNM and those of FNM will determine the applications of the mucilage obtained from the O. ficus indica cladodes in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

Cladodes: Chemical and structural properties, biological activity, and polyphenols profile

The nopal cactus is an essential part of the Mexican diet and culture. The per capita consumption of young cladodes averages annually to 6.4 kg across the nation. In addition to contributing to the country's food culture, the nopal is considered a food with functional characteristics since, in addition to providing fiber, an important group of polyphenolic compounds is present, which has given cladodes to be considered a healthy food, for what they have been incorporated into the diet of Mexican people and many other countries worldwide. Research suggests that polyphenols from cladodes act as antioxidants and antidiabetics. This review studies the main phenolic components in cladodes and summarizes both conventional and novel methods to identify them.