Mumefural, citric acid derivative improving blood fluidity from fruit-juice concentrate of Japanese apricot (Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc)

Infused juice concentrate of Japanese plum Prunus mume attenuates inflammatory vascular remodeling in a mouse model of hypertension induced by angiotensin II

Fruit from the Prunus mume tree is a traditional food in Japan. Recently, bainiku-ekisu, an infused juice concentrate of Japanese Prunus mume, is attracting attention as a health promoting supplement. Angiotensin II (Ang II) plays a central role in development of hypertension. It has been reported that bainiku-ekisu treatment attenuates the growth-promoting signaling induced by Ang II in vascular smooth muscle cells. However, whether bainiku-ekisu has any effect on an animal model of hypertension remains unknown. Therefore, this study was designed to explore the potential anti-hypertensive benefit of bainiku-ekisu utilizing a mouse model of hypertension with Ang II infusion. Male C57BL/6 mice were infused with Ang II for 2 weeks and given 0.1% bainiku-ekisu containing water or normal water for 2 weeks with blood pressure evaluation. After 2 weeks, mice were euthanized, and the aortas were collected for evaluation of remodeling. Aortic medial hypertrophy was observed in control mice after Ang II infusion, which was attenuated in bainiku-ekisu group with Ang II infusion. Bainiku-ekisu further attenuated aortic induction of collagen producing cells and immune cell infiltration. Development of hypertension induced by Ang II was also prevented by bainiku-ekisu. Echocardiograph indicated protection of Ang II-induced cardiac hypertrophy by bainiku-ekisu. In vascular fibroblasts, bainiku-ekisu attenuated vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 induction, an endoplasmic reticulum stress marker, inositol requiring enzyme-1α phosphorylation, and enhancement in glucose consumption in response to Ang II. In conclusion, Bainiku-ekisu prevented Ang II-induced hypertension and inflammatory vascular remodeling. Potential cardiovascular health benefit to taking bainiku-ekisu should be further studied.

Mumefural Improves Recognition Memory and Alters ERK-CREB-BDNF Signaling in a Mouse Model of Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion

Cognitive impairment resulting from chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is known as vascular dementia (VaD) and is associated with cerebral atrophy and cholinergic deficiencies. Mumefural (MF), a bioactive compound found in a heated fruit of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc, was recently found to improve cognitive impairment in a rat CCH model. However, additional evidence is necessary to validate the efficacy of MF administration for treating VaD. Therefore, we evaluated MF effects in a mouse CCH model using unilateral common carotid artery occlusion (UCCAO). Mice were subjected to UCCAO or sham surgery and orally treated with MF daily for 8 weeks. Behavioral tests were used to investigate cognitive function and locomotor activity. Changes in body and brain weights were measured, and levels of hippocampal proteins (brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), cyclic AMP-response element-binding protein (CREB), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE)) were assessed. Additionally, proteomic analysis was conducted to examine the alterations in protein profiles induced by MF treatment. Our study showed that MF administration significantly improved cognitive deficits. Brain atrophy was attenuated and MF treatment reversed the increase in AChE levels. Furthermore, MF significantly upregulated p-ERK/ERK, p-CREB/CREB, and BDNF levels after UCCAO. Thus, MF treatment ameliorates CCH-induced cognitive impairment by regulating ERK/CREB/BDNF signaling, suggesting that MF is a therapeutic candidate for treating CCH.

Bio-Derived Furanic Compounds with Natural Metabolism: New Sustainable Possibilities for Selective Organic Synthesis

Biomass-derived C6-furanic compounds have become the cornerstone of sustainable technologies. The key feature of this field of chemistry is the involvement of the natural process only in the first step, i.e., the production of biomass by photosynthesis. Biomass-to-HMF (5-hydroxymethylfurfural) conversion and further transformations are carried out externally with the involvement of processes with poor environmental factors (E-factors) and the generation of chemical wastes. Due to widespread interest, the chemical conversion of biomass to furanic platform chemicals and related transformations are thoroughly studied and well-reviewed in the current literature. In contrast, a novel opportunity is based on an alternative approach to consider the synthesis of C6-furanics inside living cells using natural metabolism, as well as further transformations to a variety of functionalized products. In the present article, we review naturally occurring substances containing C6-furanic cores and focus on the diversity of C6-furanic derivatives, occurrence, properties and synthesis. From the practical point of view, organic synthesis involving natural metabolism is advantageous in terms of sustainability (sunlight-driven as the only energy source) and green nature (no eco-persisted chemical wastes).

Vascular Relaxation and Blood Pressure Lowering Effects of Prunus mume in Rats

Prunus mume Siebold et Zuccarini is mainly consumed as processed fruits in beverages, vinegar, alcohol, or fruit syrup; studies have reported various functional effects. Many pharmacological and functional studies exist on fruit extracts or processed foods using fruits, however, efficacy studies on various parts of P. mume, including the bark, branches, flowers, and leaves, have not been sufficiently conducted. A previous study revealed that a 70% ethanol extract of P. mume branches induced vascular endothelium-dependent vasorelaxant effects in rat thoracic aortic rings. Therefore, we hypothesized that various parts (the fruits, flowers, leaves, and bark) might have vasorelaxant effects. We evaluated the effects of P. mume extracts on the vascular relaxation of isolated rat thoracic aorta and hypotensive effects in spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHR). A 70% ethanol extract of P. mume bark (PBaE) was the most effective, thus, we investigated its vasorelaxant mechanisms and hypotensive effects. PBaE lowered the blood pressure in SHR and induced the vascular endothelium-dependent relaxation of isolated rat aortic rings via the NO/sGC/cGMP and the PGI₂ pathways in the vascular smooth muscle. Potassium channels, such as K_Ca, K_ATP, K_V, and K_ir, were partially associated with a PBaE-induced vasorelaxation. Therefore, PBaE might help prevent and treat hypertension.

Genetic diversity of Venturia carpophila populations from different hosts and geographic regions in China

Venturia carpophila, the causal agent of scab disease of peach, mume, and apricot, is widely distributed around the world. Scab of stone fruits is an important disease in China. However, little is known about the population biology and genetic diversity of the V. carpophila. To better understand the genetic diversity and population structure of V. carpophila, 186 single-spore isolates from different hosts and geographic regions were obtained and analyzed by using 31 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. This included 156 isolates from peach spanning 14 provinces, 15 isolates from mume and 15 isolates from apricot in Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU). Diversity analysis with SSR markers showed a low incidence of polymorphisms within mume isolates (32.59% of markers), but a higher incidence of polymorphisms within peach isolates (42.96%) and apricot isolates (57.04%). Within peach isolates, Nei's average gene diversity ranged from 0.07 for Hebei population to 0.18 for Hubei population. AMOVA analysis revealed that 13% of the observed genetic diversity was partitioned among the geographic populations, while 40% of the observed genetic diversity was partitioned among the host populations. Other analyses (PCoA, STRUCTURE, DAPC, MSN, and UPGMA) indicated that the Chinese V. carpophila populations could be clustered into three distinct genetic groups, which correspond to the host boundaries of peach, mume and apricot. The genetic identity of V. carpophila isolates throughout the range is dependent on hosts, but not geographic regions.

An integrated strategy for anti-inflammatory quality markers screening of traditional Chinese herbal medicine Mume Fructus based on phytochemical analysis and anti-colitis activity

BACKGROUND

Mume Fructus (MF) is used in traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCM) to treat chronic cough, prolonged diarrhea, and other inflammation-related diseases. It is processed from Prunus mume fruit (PM) by drying at low temperature according to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. The standard quality control method includes measurement of citric acid content, which is not sufficient to determine its clinical efficacy. In addition, the quality markers, that would ensure consistent drug composition and stability during extraction and processing of the drug, are currently not available.

PURPOSE

This study sought to determine and analyze the bioactive compounds in MF and to establish the quality maker evaluation system, which would enable accurate assessment of different processing and extraction approaches for MF preparation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

First, a UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS method was established to identify the chemical constituents of PM and MF. Second, the 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS)-treated rats were used to assess anti-inflammatory activity of water and ethanol extracts of PM and MF. Third, correlation analysis and multivariate statistical analysis was used to seek the candidate quality markers of MF. Fourth, molecular docking was used to predict the potential mechanism of identified compounds for the anti-inflammatory activity. Finally, a UPLC method was established to quantify the selected quality markers in MF products, that were prepared by different drying processes.

RESULTS

99 components (28 newly reported) were identified from PM and MF. During the drying process several changes in the composition were observed; caffeoylquinic acids were degraded to p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid, or p-hydroxybenzoic acid; multi-acetyl p-coumaroyl sucroses were degraded to mumeose R and p-coumaroyl-3-O-sucrose. On the other hand, contents of mumefural and amygdalin increased after drying process. In colitis rats, MF reduced more NO levels to greater extent in comparison to PM, which could be attributed to the presence of caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, protocatechuic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, mumefural, p-coumaroyl-3-O-sucrose, mumeose R, and amygdalin in MF. Moreover, water extracts were better than ethanol extracts in alleviating the IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17 levels, possibly on account of citric acid and caffeoylquinic acids. The predicted mechanism of action could be through inhibition of the production of NLRP3, TLR4, and NF-κB proteins. Finally, 7 compounds (citric acid, 3-O-caffeoylquinic acid, 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid, 4-O-caffeoylquinic acid, caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid, and p-coumaric acid) were selected as quality markers of MF that could be used for the process quality control.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed the material basis of PM and MF for anti-colitis activity and discovered the quality markers of MF which could reflect the anti-inflammatory activity and the processing process of MF.

Current and potential trends in the bioactive properties and health benefits of Prunus mume Sieb. Et Zucc: a comprehensive review for value maximization

Prunus mume Sieb. Et Zucc (P. mume) is an acidic fruit native to China (named Chinese Mei or greengage plum). It is currently cultivated in several Asian countries, including Japan ("Ume"), Korea (Maesil), and Vietnam (Mai or Mo). Due to its myriad nutritional and functional properties, it is accepted in different countries, and its characteristics account for its commercialization. In this review, we summarize the information on the bioactive compounds from the fruit of P. mume and their structure-activity relationships (SAR); the pulp has the highest enrichment of bioactive chemicals. The nutritional properties of P. mume and the numerous uses of its by-products make it a potential functional food. P. mume extracts exhibit antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, and anti-hyperuricaemic properties, cardiovascular protective effects, and hormone regulatory properties in various in vitro and in vivo assays. SAR shows that the water solubility, molecular weight, and chemical conformation of P. mume extracts are closely related to their biological activity. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the fruit's potential nutritional and functional therapeutic mechanisms. The industrial process of large-scale production of P. mume and its extracts as functional foods or nutraceuticals needs to be further optimized.

Chemical Structures of Adhesive and Interphase Parts in Sucrose/Citric Acid Type Adhesive Wood-Based Molding Derived from Japanese Cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)

In sucrose/citric acid based wood adhesive, the detailed bonding mechanism has still been unknown. Here, we investigated the detailed chemical structures of this adhesive wood (Japanese cedar)-based molding by using heteronuclear single quantum coherence–nuclear magnetic resonance (HSQC-NMR). NMR peaks associated with the furan-type structure appeared, suggesting that the furan compound was formed from sucrose and converted to a furan polymer during the adhesive process and that some of the furan structures in the polymers were ester-bonded with citric acid. The secondary forces between the furan polymers and wood components were thought to contribute to the adhesive effect. In our analysis of the interphase structure, primary hydroxyl groups of both polysaccharides and of lignin substructures were found to be esterified with citric acid. Additionally, some of the glycosidic bonds in polysaccharides were cleaved during the acidic condition produced by citric acid. The above results provided evidence of the polymerization of sucrose-derived 5-HMF, the esterification of wood components, and the degradation of polysaccharides during the molding process. Citric acid functioned as a clamp between the obtained furan polymer and the wood components. The sucrose/citric acid based wood adhesive can be defined as a hybrid-type wood adhesive, involving both secondary forces and chemical bonding interactions.

Concentrated extract of Prunus mume fruit exerts dual effects in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by inhibiting adipogenesis and inducing beiging/browning

Background

The fruit Prunus mume has beneficial effects in the treatment of obesity and metabolic syndrome. However, its mechanism of action is unclear.

Objective

We assessed the effect of a concentrated water extract of P. mume fruit (CEPM) on adipogenesis and beiging/browning in 3T3-L1 cells.

Methods

The cell viability was determined by MTT assay. Lipid accumulation was assessed with Oil Red O (ORO) staining under different concentrations of CEPM. The effects of CEPM treatment during differentiation on beiging/browning and mitochondrial biogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells were investigated.

Results

CEPM treatment suppressed differentiation and decreased lipid accumulation by downregulating the expression of key adipogenic genes, including PPARγ, C/EBPα, SREBP-1c, FAS, and perilipin A. In contrast, CEPM treatment increased the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content and mRNA levels of mitochondrial biogenesis genes, including NAMPT, Nrf1, Nrf2, and CPT1α, and reduced reactive oxygen species levels. Importantly, CEPM increased the expression of brown/beige hallmark genes (Pgc-1α, Ucp1, Cidea, Cox7α1, Cox8b, Cd137, and Pdk-4), as well as proteins (UCP1, PGC-1α, NRF1, TBX1, and CPT1α). The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis reveals that CEPM contains mumefural, naringin, 5-HMF, citric acid, caffeic acid, and hesperidin.

Conclusion

The first evidence we provided showed that CEPM has a dual role in 3T3-L1 cells inhibiting adipogenesis and promoting beiging/browning, and hence, could be a potential agent in the fight against obesity.

Comprehensive Review of Phytochemical Constituents, Pharmacological Properties, and Clinical Applications of Prunus mume

Prunus mume is one of the most ancient medicinal herbs and health foods commonly used in Asian countries. It is widely used as a constituent of many medicinal preparations and as a food ingredient for its beneficial health effects. In this review, we retrieved reports from PubMed, embase, Scopus, and SciFinder databases, to collect extensive scientific evidence on the phytochemical constituents, pharmacological properties, and clinical applications of Prunus mume. The literature review revealed that approximately 192 compounds have been isolated from different parts of the plant, and their molecular structures have been identified. The pharmacological properties of the plant, including anti-diabetic, liver-protective, antitumor, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as their underlying mechanisms, have been clarified by in vitro and in vivo studies. Clinical studies, although very limited, have been highlighted in this review to provide a reference for further exploration on therapeutic applications of the plant.

Protective Effect of Prunus mume Fermented with Mixed Lactic Acid Bacteria in Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis

The fruit of Prunus mume (PM) is widely cultivated in East Asia, and it has been used as a folk medication for gastrointestinal disorders, e.g., diarrhea, stomach ache and ulceration. In this study, the pectinase-treated PM juice (PJ) was fermented with Lactobacillus strains containing fundamental organic acids and free amino acids. The PJ fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum and L. casei (FP) was investigated for its protective effect in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis mice model. The administration of FP reduced lipid peroxidation and histopathological colitis symptoms, e.g., shortening of the colon length, depletion of mucin, epithelial injury and ulceration, in colonic tissues. The FP-supplemented group showed the alleviation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Compared with the DSS control group, the supplementation of FP significantly reduced the levels of serum interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-12 and IL-17 as well as colonic tumor necrosis factor-α, IFN-γ, IL-12 and IL-17. Furthermore, the DSS-induced TUNEL-positive area was significantly reduced by the FP supplementation. These results show that the supplementation of FP fermented with mixed lactic acid bacteria, L. plantarum and L. casei, elucidated the protective effect in DSS-induced colitis mice. Hence, this study suggests that FP can be utilized as a natural therapeutic agent for colitis and intestinal inflammation.

Mumefural Improves Blood Flow in a Rat Model of FeCl3-Induced Arterial Thrombosis

Mumefural (MF), a bioactive component of the processed fruit of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc, is known to inhibit platelet aggregation induced by agonists in vitro. In this study, we investigated the anti-thrombotic effects of MF using a rat model of FeCl₃-induced arterial thrombosis. Sprague–Dawley rats were intraperitoneally injected with MF (0.1, 1, or 10 mg/kg) 30 min before 35% FeCl₃ treatment to measure the time to occlusion using a laser Doppler flowmeter and to assess the weight of the blood vessels containing thrombus. MF treatment significantly improved blood flow by inhibiting occlusion and thrombus formation. MF also prevented collagen fiber damage in injured vessels and inhibited the expression of the platelet activation-related proteins P-selectin and E-selectin. Moreover, MF significantly reduced the increased inflammatory signal of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-6 in blood vessels. After administration, MF was detected in the plasma samples of rats with a bioavailability of 36.95%. Therefore, we suggest that MF may improve blood flow as a candidate component in dietary supplements for improving blood flow and preventing blood circulation disorders.

Acute and Subacute Oral Toxicity of Mumefural, Bioactive Compound Derived from Processed Fruit of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc., in ICR Mice

Mumefural is a bioactive compound derived from the processed fruit of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc., a traditional health food; however, its safety has not been evaluated. We investigated the toxicity of mumefural through single and repeated oral administration at doses of 1250, 2500, and 5000 mg/kg in Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice. The acute toxicity assessment was not associated with adverse effects or death. Similarly, the subacute (four weeks) toxicity assessment did not reveal any mumefural-associated mortality, abnormal organ damage, or altered clinical signs, body weight, food consumption, or hematological parameters. However, albumin/globulin ratio and chloride ion levels were significantly increased in male mice treated with mumefural at ≥ 2500 mg/kg. Female mice exhibited significantly higher levels of chloride, sodium, and potassium ions, at a dose of 5000 mg/kg. Furthermore, the administration of 2500 and 5000 mg/kg mumefural decreased the absolute weight of spleen in male mice. These findings indicated that the approximate lethal dose of mumefural in ICR mice was > 5000 mg/kg. No significant mumefural toxicity was observed at ≤ 5000 mg/kg. Our findings provide a basis for conducting future detailed studies to evaluate reproductive, neurological, genetic, and chronic toxicity of mumefural.

Anticancer properties of Prunus mume extracts (Chinese plum, Japanese apricot)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Extracts of the fruit of Prunus mume (Rosaceae) have been used for a long time in Eastern Asia, in many culinary and medicinal preparations. The plant originates from the south of mainland China (named méi) and was introduced later in Japan (ume), Korea (maesil) and Vietnam (mai or mo). Extracts of the fruits (Chinese plum or Japanese apricot, 'Nanko' mume cultivar of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc.) are used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, and various Korean medical preparations, for more than 2000 years. The medicinal use of the flesh of the fruits is cited in ancient Japanese monographies (such as Shokokukodenhiho published in 1817).

AIM OF THE STUDY

To analyze the anticancer activities of P. mume extracts and their potential use to prevent or treat cancers. The use of P. mume extracts to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy, notably drug-induced gastro-intestinal toxicities, is also reviewed.

METHODS

Extensive database retrieval, such as SciFinder and PubMed, was performed by using keywords such as "Prunus mume", "Chinese plum", "Japanese apricot", and "cancer". In addition, relevant textbooks, patents, reviews, and digital documents (in English) were consulted to collate all available scientific literature and to provide a complete science-based survey of the topic.

RESULTS

P. mume extracts display hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and antibacterial effects, as well as anticancer properties. A survey of the antitumor activities of MK615 and other P. mume extracts is provided here, with information about the natural products found in the extracts (such as ursolic acid and oleanic acid) and the mechanisms of action of these extracts. MK615 inhibits proliferation and induces apoptotic death of different types of cancer cells from both solid and hematological tumors.

CONCLUSION

The pool of in vitro data and signs of anticancer activities in mice models and in Human, although very limited, support the use of this extract to treat cancer, notably gastro-intestinal tumors. However, more robust evidence of anticancer activity in Human are awaited. Beyond cancer treatment, the use of P. mume extracts to prevent or to treat mucositis and other gastro-intestinal damages induced by anticancer drugs is underlined. The woody plant Prunus mume, a member of the Rosaceae family, has a long plantation history in China, and has widely been planted in Asia due to its high ornamental value (colorful corollas, pleasant fragrance, weeping trait) and the culinary, nutritional and medicinal potential of the fruits from the specie Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc (Mei). Over the past 20 years the therapeutic potential of the extract of Japanese apricot "Ume" has been regularly reported. Anti-bacterial, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties have been described. A complete analysis of the published scientific literature on Ume and cancer is presented here.

Mumefural Ameliorates Cognitive Impairment in Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion via Regulating the Septohippocampal Cholinergic System and Neuroinflammation

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) causes cognitive impairment and neurogenic inflammation by reducing blood flow. We previously showed that Fructus mume (F. mume) improves cognitive impairment and inhibits neuroinflammation in a CCH rat model. One of the components of F. mume, Mumefural (MF), is known to improve blood flow and inhibit platelet aggregation. Whether MF affects cerebral and cognitive function remains unclear. We investigated the effects of MF on cognitive impairment and neurological function-related protein expression in the rat CCH model, established by bilateral common carotid arterial occlusion (BCCAo). Three weeks after BCCAo, MF (20, 40, or 80 mg/kg) was orally administrated once a day for 42 days. Using Morris water maze assessment, MF treatment significantly improved cognitive impairment. MF treatment also inhibited cholinergic system dysfunction, attenuated choline acetyltransferase-positive cholinergic neuron loss, and regulated cholinergic system-related protein expressions in the basal forebrain and hippocampus. MF also inhibited myelin basic protein degradation and increased the hippocampal expression of synaptic markers and cognition-related proteins. Moreover, MF reduced neuroinflammation, inhibited gliosis, and attenuated the activation of P2X7 receptor, TLR4/MyD88, NLRP3, and NF-κB. This study indicates that MF ameliorates cognitive impairment in BCCAo rats by enhancing neurological function and inhibiting neuroinflammation.

Inhibitory Effects of Pectinase-Treated Prunus Mume Fruit Concentrate on Colorectal Cancer Proliferation and Angiogenesis of Endothelial Cells

Pectinase is a well-known enzyme used in the food processing industry to produce fruit juice and concentrate. This study evaluated the anticancer and antiangiogenesis activities of pectinase-treated Prunus mume fruit concentrate (PC) and its phenolic components. PC treatment (250 to 1,000 µg/mL) resulted in decreased proliferation of SW480 human colorectal cancer cells through S-phase cell cycle arrest; however, equivalent concentrations of PC did not show toxicity toward CRL-1539 colon normal cells. Furthermore, PC-induced caspase-dependent apoptosis in SW480 cells, which was characterized by accumulation of apoptotic cell population, cell shrinkage, formation of apoptotic bodies, upregulation of proapoptotic Bax, cleaved PARP, caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9, and downregulation of antiapoptotic Bcl-2. Antiangiogenesis effects of PC were assessed using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We found that PC did not inhibit HUVECs proliferation at concentrations of 500 to 1,500 µg/mL. In addition, treatment with PC at nontoxic concentrations (500 to 1,000 µg/mL) blocked vascular endothelial growth factor induced cell migration, invasion, capillary-like tube formation, and angiogenesis from rat aortic rings. HPLC-PDA analysis showed that there were at least four different phenolics including 5-HMF, neochlorogenic acid, protocatechuic acid, and syringic acid. Taken together, these results indicated that PC could be used as a good source of phenolic compounds with selective anticancer and antiangiogenesis activities. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Pectinases are one of the well-known enzyme used in the part of food processing. Treatment of pectinase is a useful strategy to reduce viscosity, turbidity, and pulp particles in the production of fruit juice, extract, and concentrate. In the present study, we found that pectinase-treated P. mume fruit concentrate significantly suppresses colorectal cancer proliferation and angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. The significance of our findings is that pectinase-treated P. mume concentrate may be used as a commercial functional food material to inhibit colorectal cancer and angiogenesis.

Vasorelaxant Effect of Prunus mume (Siebold) Siebold & Zucc. Branch through the Endothelium-Dependent Pathway

Korean plum (Prunus mume (Siebold) Siebold & Zucc.) has long been used as a health food or herbal medicine in Asia. Previous studies have shown that several plants of the genus Prunus have vasodilatory and antihypertensive effects; we hypothesized that P. mume branches may have a vasorelaxant effect. In this study, we evaluated the effects and action mechanism of 70% ethanol extract of P. mume branch (PMB) on isolated rat aortic rings. Inhibitors such as NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one, methylene blue, indomethacin, atropine, tetraethylammonium chloride, glibenclamide, 4-aminopyridine and BaCl₂ were used to investigate the mechanism of vasodilation responsible for the vascular relaxation. PMB (2-30 μg/mL) induced vasorelaxation in the presence of vascular endothelium, and all inhibitors used in this study affected the degree of relaxation. These results suggest that the vasorelaxant effect of PMB is endothelium-dependent and affects the nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway, prostacyclin pathway, muscarinic receptor pathway, and potassium channels. Our study explains that PMB may be another approach to hypertension treatment to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease.

Antioxidant Effects of Bioactive Compounds Isolated from Pressurized Steam-Treated Corni Fructus and Their Protective Effects Against UVB-Irradiated HS68 Cells

This study evaluated the antioxidant and protective effects of bioactive compounds isolated from pressurized steam-treated Corni Fructus (PSC). We had previously tested the protective effects of the furan fraction containing 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), polyphenol fraction containing gallic acid, and iridoid glycoside fraction containing morroniside and loganin. We measured the potency of antioxidant activities of the bioactive compounds isolated from PSC via oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging assays. One fraction in particular (named F-2) not only contained high amounts of phenolics but also had potent antioxidant activities. The protective effects of F-2 were evaluated by measuring the levels of the collagen-degrading enzyme, matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), and the marker of collagen biosynthesis, procollagen type I C-peptide (PIP), in UVB-treated HS68 fibroblasts. MMP-1 levels decreased in an F-2 concentration-dependent manner, and PIP secretion from the cultured HS68 cells was significantly higher than that from the UVB-irradiated cultures alone. Further, F-2 attenuated UVB-induced MMP-1 and ameliorated UVB-downregulated collagen type I alpha 1 mRNA expression in HS68 cells. Therefore, F-2 isolated from PSC is a good candidate for the prevention of skin damage from free radicals in various skin conditions.

Analysis of ethyl carbamate in plum wines produced in Korea

Ethyl carbamate is naturally occurring compound, commonly found in many fermented foods and alcoholic beverages. During the process of plum wine production, ethyl carbamate can be formed. To this date, limited studies were conducted to monitor the ethyl carbamate in the plum wine brewed in-house. The objective of this study was to analyze the ethyl carbamates in plum wine, that were produced in differently: in-house and commercial production. A total of 33 plum wines were analyzed. The levels of ethyl carbamate ranged from N.D to 352.7 μg/kg in plum wines available in Korea. The current level of ethyl carbamate in plum wine was below the governmental regulation. However, continuous monitoring and further develop a strategy to reduce the level of ethyl carbamate in plum wine is in need, as the highest level of ethyl carbamate in plum wine is near the governmental standard (400 μg/kg).

Isolation and Role of PmRGL2 in GA-mediated Floral Bud Dormancy Release in Japanese Apricot (Prunus mume Siebold et Zucc.)

Bud dormancy release is regulated by gibberellins (GAs). DELLA proteins are highly conserved and act as negative regulators in GA signaling pathway. The present study established a relationship between PmRGL2 in Japanese apricot and GA₄ levels during dormancy release of floral buds. Overexpression of PmRGL2 in poplar delayed the onset of bud dormancy and resulted in dwarf plants, relative to wild-type trees. PmRGL2 exhibited higher expression during ecodormancy and relatively lower expression during endodormancy. The relative level of GA₄ exhibited an increasing trend at the transition from endodormancy to ecodormancy and displayed a similar expression pattern of genes related to GA metabolism, PmGA20ox2, PmGA3ox1, PmGID1b, in both Japanese apricot and transgenic poplar. These results suggests that PmRGL2 acts as an integrator and negative regulator of dormancy via a GA-signaling pathway. Moreover, an interaction between RGL2 and SLY1 in a yeast two hybrid (Y2H) system further suggests that SCF E3 ubiquitin ligases, such as SLY1, may be a critical factor in the regulation of RGL2 through an SCF ^SLY1 -proteasome pathway. Our study demonstrated that PmRGL2 plays a negative role in bud dormancy release by regulating the GA biosynthetic enzymes, GA20ox and GA3ox1 and the GA receptor, GID1b.

Epidemiological Characteristics of Scab of Japanese Apricot in Korea

Scabs caused by Venturia carpophila greatly reduce the quality of the fruits of the Japanese apricot (Prunus mume) when the disease is not properly managed. The disease produces a superficial blemish that is unlikely to affect the overall yield of processed fruit, but reduce the value of fruit intended for the fresh market. Incidence rates of scab at sprayed and unsprayed orchards range from 0% to 21.5% and from 30.2% to 100%, respectively, in the major cultivation regions of Jeonnam Province during the growing season of 2009. The trends in disease progress were quite similar, regardless of regions, and cultivar Namgo was relatively less damaged by scab compared to cultivar Cheonmae among the tested Japanese apricot cultivars. The fruits on branches 1.5 m above the infected Japanese apricot trees and the stem-end parts of the infected fruits were more severely damaged by scabs, possibly because of rain and run-off facilitate dissemination of conidia of V. carpophila and subsequent infection of the fruits or branches. The conidia of V. carpophila were dispersed from March 24 to April 26 in 2010, and more conidia were dispersed from 2-year-old branches than 1-year-old branches. Since the control efficacies were higher than 90% after more than two applications of Trifloxystrobin WG at 10-day-intervals from mid April, it is that effective fungicides be applied at least two times at 10-day-intervals from the middle of April to manage scabs of Japanese apricot in orchards.

Investigation of the Hepatoprotective Effect of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc Extract in a Mouse Model of Alcoholic Liver Injury Through High-Resolution Metabolomics

This study aimed to identify the changes in the metabolomics profile of liver damage caused by alcohol consumption and verify the beneficial effect of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc extract (PME) in protection of alcohol-induced injury by attenuating the level of identified metabolites. Mice were treated with PME and saline or untreated once daily for 5 days, followed by alcohol injection. The plasma samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based high-resolution metabolomics followed by a multivariate statistical analysis using MetaboAnalyst 3.0 to obtain significantly expressed metabolites, using a false discovery rate threshold of q = 0.05. Metabolites were annotated using Metlin database and mapped through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Among 4999 total features, 101 features were significant among alcohol- and PME-treated mice groups. All the samples cluster showed a clear separation in the heat map, and the scores plot of orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) model discriminated the three groups. Phosphatidylcholine, Saikosaponin BK1, Ganoderiol I, and N-2-[4-(3,3-dimethylallyloxy) phenyl] ethylcinnamide were among the significant compounds with a low intensity in alcohol group compared to PME group, suggesting that these compounds have a relation in the development of PME's protective effect. The study confirms the hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of PME against alcohol-induced liver steatosis, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Effects of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc. extract and its biopolymer encapsulation on a mouse model of colitis

BACKGROUND

Prunus mume suppresses various diseases caused by inflammation response and exhibits antioxidant and free radical-scavenging activities. Therefore this study determined the effect of an aqueous P. mume (PM) extract in a mouse colitis model and investigated the value of biopolymer encapsulation, facilitating targeted delivery to the colon. Colitis was induced by administration of 30 g kg^-1 dextran sulfate sodium to male BALB/c mice for 7 days prior to treatment with vehicle, 50 mg kg^-1 PM extract or biopolymer-encapsulated PM extract, or 50 mg kg^-1 sulfasalazine.

RESULTS

Histological examination of the colon in BALB/c mice showed epithelial destruction and mucosal infiltration of inflammatory cells. These changes were attenuated in PM-treated mice, which had lower levels of inflammatory cytokines, cyclooxygenase 2 and immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM and IgE) compared with the vehicle-treated colitis group. The PM extract showed concentration-dependent radical scavenging and superoxide dismutase-like antioxidant activities.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that the effects of the PM extract on colitis were not influenced by biopolymer encapsulation and that this PM extract could be a potential therapeutic agent for inflammatory bowel disease. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effects of Prunus mume Siebold & Zucc. in the pacemaking activity of interstitial cells of Cajal in murine small intestine

Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) function as pacemaker cells in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and therefore, serve an important role in regulating GI motility. The effects of a species of plum (Prunus mume Siebold & Zucc.) on cultured ICC cluster-induced pacemaker potentials in the mouse small intestine were investigated, and the effects of a methanolic extract of Prunus mume (m-PM) on ICC pacemaker activities were examined using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. ICC pacemaker membrane potentials were depolarized by m-PM in a concentration dependent manner in current clamp mode. 4-Diphenylacetoxy-N-methyl-piperidine methiodide, which is a muscarinic 3 (M₃) receptor antagonist, was able to block m-PM-induced pacemaker potential increases, whereas methoctramine, which is a muscarinic 2 (M₂) receptor antagonist, was not. When 1 mM guanosine diphosphate β-5 was present in the pipette solution, m-PM induced slight pacemaker depolarization. Following pretreatment in bath solution of Ca²⁺-free solution or a Ca²⁺-ATPase inhibitor in endoplasmic reticulum, the pacemaker currents were inhibited. Furthermore, pretreatment with PD98059, SB203580 or SP600125, which is a c-jun NH2-terminal kinase inhibitor, blocked m-PM-induced ICC potential depolarization. Furthermore, m-PM inhibited transient receptor potential melastatin (TRPM) 7 channels, but did not affect Ca²⁺-activated Cl^- channels. These results suggest that m-PM is able to modulate pacemaker potentials through the muscarinic M₃ receptor, via G-protein and external and internal Ca²⁺, in a mitogen-activated protein kinase and TRPM7-dependent manner. Therefore, m-PM may provide a basis for the development of a novel gastroprokinetic agent.

Efficacy of a Standardized Extract of Prunus mume in Liver Protection and Redox Homeostasis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects of Prunus mume (PM) have previously been demonstrated. This double-blind, placebo-controlled study was designed to evaluate the influence of two doses of a food supplement, made of 150 mg of a standardized PM extract on liver transaminases, lipid profile, glycemia, neopterin and reduced and oxidized thiols in plasma and erythrocytes, during a 3-month treatment period, in healthy subjects with transaminases levels between 20 and 40 UI/L. Forty-five subjects (56.0 ± 11.6 years) were enrolled. The results showed a beneficial and statistically significant effect versus placebo of PM extract on liver function, with a decrease versus baseline in alanine aminotransferase (47%), aspartate aminotransferase (7%), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (15%) and glycemia (11%). The lipid profile modification was also positive with an increase versus baseline in HDL cholesterol (13%), and a decrease in LDL/HDL ratio (12%) and triglycerides (8%). The antioxidant action of PM translated into a decrease in oxidized glutathione, reduced/oxidized cysteine-glycine, oxidized cysteine (intracellular pro-oxidant) and neopterin (inflammation biomarker), was associated with an increase in reduced glutathione. These results are in favor of the use of a standardized extract of P. mume for the support of liver health and prevention of common metabolic and inflammation-based diseases. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Fructus mume Ethanol Extract Prevents Inflammation and Normalizes the Septohippocampal Cholinergic System in a Rat Model of Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion

Fructus mume (F. mume), the unripe fruit of Prunus mume, has long been used in Asian countries to treat cough and chronic diarrhea. We previously reported that F. mume exerts anti-inflammatory effects in a model of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH), a key etiological factor of vascular dementia (VaD). The present study was performed to investigate the protective effects of an ethanolic extract of F. mume on the inflammatory response and cholinergic dysfunction in a model of CCH induced by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAo) in Wistar rats. Rats were assigned to three treatment groups: sham plus vehicle, BCCAo plus vehicle, and BCCAo plus F. mume extract (200 mg/kg). F. mume was administered by oral gavage from days 21 to 42 following BCCAo. Glial cell numbers were measured in the white matter and hippocampus. The hippocampal expressions of proinflammatory cytokines, angiotensin-II (Ang-II), receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPKs) were also evaluated. Choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) levels in the hippocampus and basal forebrain were examined. Rats with BCCAo showed an increase in the number of glial cells and levels of proinflammatory cytokines, Ang-II, RAGE, and MAPKs, all of which were significantly attenuated by F. mume treatment. F. mume administration also restored ChAT expression in the basal forebrain and hippocampus following chronic BCCAo. These results suggest that F. mume is a potentially valuable drug or nutraceutical for the treatment of VaD.

Characteristics of Gouda cheese supplemented with fruit liquors

This study was conducted in order to evaluate the quality characteristics of Gouda cheeses supplemented with fruit liquor (Prunusmume or Cornus officinalis). Fruit liquor was supplemented to Gouda cheeses during preparation. Changes in chemical composition, lactic acid bacterial population, pH, water-soluble nitrogen, sensory characteristics, and proteolysis were monitored in the prepared ripened cheese. The electrophoresis patterns of cheese proteins, fruit liquor functional component concentrations, and the flavonoid content of the cheeses were also determined. The addition of fruit liquor did not affect (p> 0.05) the appearance or sensory characteristics of the cheeses. Higher amounts of crude ash, mineral, and flavonoids (p< 0.05) were observed in the liquor supplemented cheese than in the control cheese. Findings from this study suggest that wine supplemented Gouda could provide additional nutrients while maintaining flavor and quality.

Study of the Antibacterial Efficacy of Bainiku-Ekisu against Pathogens

The research was undertaken to determine the bacteriostatic effects of the concentrate of Japanese apricot juice (bainiku-ekisu), which is a popular health food in Taiwan and Japan, on Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922. The results show that E. faecalis, S. aureus, and E. coli could be killed or inhibited by bainiku-ekisu at concentrations between 1.0 and 10.0 mg/mL. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 1 mg/mL for all strains, and the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were 5, 2.5, and 2.5 mg/mL for E. faecalis, S. aureus, and E. coli, respectively. Using the growth rate to calculate the MICs and MBCs, the MICs were 1.55, 1.43, and 0.97 mg/mL, and the MBCs were 2.59, 2.63, and 2.25 mg/mL for E. faecalis, S. aureus, and E. coli, respectively. According to the D values, E. faecalis and S. aureus exhibited lower resistance than E. coli at lower bainiku-ekisu concentrations (1.0 and 2.5 mg/mL), and the resistance of these two pathogens was better than that of E. coli at higher bainiku-ekisu concentrations (5.0 and 10.0 mg/mL). The Z values of the E. faecalis, S. aureus, and E. coli strains were 3.47, 4.93, and 11.62 mg/mL, respectively.

Prunus mume and Lithospermum erythrorhizon Extracts Synergistically Prevent Visceral Adiposity by Improving Energy Metabolism through Potentiating Hypothalamic Leptin and Insulin Signalling in Ovariectomized Rats

We investigated the antiobesity and hypoglycemic properties of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc (PMA; Japanese apricot) and Lithospermum erythrorhizon Sieb. et Zucc (LES; gromwell) extracts in ovariectomized (OVX) rats that impaired energy and glucose homeostasis. OVX rats consumed either 5% dextrose, 5% PMA extract, 5% LES extract, or 2.5% PMA+2.5% LES extract in the high fat diet. After 8 weeks of treatment, PMA+LES prevented weight gain and visceral fat accumulation in OVX rats by lowering daily food intake and increasing energy expenditure and fat oxidation. PMA+LES prevented the attenuation of leptin and insulin signaling by increasing the expression of leptin receptor in the hypothalamus in OVX rats. PMA+LES significantly reversed the decrease of energy expenditure in OVX rats by increasing expression of UCP-1 in the brown adipose tissues and UCP-2 and UCP-3 in the quadriceps muscles. PMA+LES also increased CPT-1 expression and decreased FAS, ACC, and SREBP-1c in the liver and quadriceps muscles to result in reducing triglyceride accumulation. PMA+LES improved insulin sensitivity in OVX rats. In conclusion, PMA+LES synergistically prevented the impairment of energy, lipid, and glucose metabolism by OVX through potentiating hypothalamic leptin and insulin signaling. PMA+LES may be a useful intervention for alleviating the symptoms of menopause in women.

Isolation, structural elucidation, and biological evaluation of a 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural derivative, asfural, from enzyme-treated asparagus extract

A novel 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural (HMF; 1) derivative, which is named asfural (compound 2), was isolated from enzyme-treated asparagus extract (ETAS) along with HMF (1) as a heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) inducible compound. The structure of compound 2 was elucidated on the basis of its spectroscopic data from HREIMS and NMR, whereas the absolute configuration was determined using chiral HPLC analysis, compared to two synthesized compounds, (S)- and (R)-asfural. As a result, compound 2 derived from ETAS was assigned as (S)-(2-formylfuran-5-yl)methyl 5-oxopyrrolidine-2-carboxylate. When compound 2, synthesized (S)- and (R)-asfural, and HMF (1) were evaluated in terms of HSP70 mRNA expression-enhancing activity in HL-60 cells, compound 2 and (S)-asfural significantly increased the expression level in a concentration-dependent manner. HMF (1) also showed significant activity at 0.25 mg/mL.

Effect of citric acid on the acidification of artificial pepsin solution for metacercariae isolation from fish

Artificial digestive solution based on pepsin is essential for collecting metacercariae from fish. To promote the enzymatic reactivity of pepsin, the pH of the solution has to be adjusted to pH 1.0-2.0. Hydrochloride (HCl) is usually used for this purpose, but the use of HCl raises safety concerns. The aim of this work was to address the usefulness of citric acid as an alternative for HCl for the acidification of pepsin solution, and to examine its potential to damage metacercariae during in vitro digestion as compared with HCl. Changes in pH after adding 1-9% of citric acid (m/v) to pepsin solution were compared to a 1% HCl (v/v) addition. Digestion of fish muscle was evaluated by measuring released protein concentrations by spectrophotometry. In addition, survival rates of metacercariae in pepsin solution were determined at different citric acid concentrations and were compared that of with 1% HCl. The present study shows that addition of citric acid reduced the pH of pepsin solutions to the required level. Addition of more than 5% of citric acid resulted in the effective digestion of fish muscle over 3h in vitro, and 5% citric acid was less lethal to metacercariae than 1% HCl in pepsin solution. Pepsin solution containing 5% citric acid had digestive capacity superior to pepsin solution containing 1% HCl after 3h incubation with released protein concentrations of 12.0 ng/ml for 5% citric acid and 9.6 ng/ml for 1% HCl. Accordingly, the present study suggests that the addition of 5% citric acid to pepsin solution is a good alternative to 1% HCl in infection studies because citric acid is a stable at room temperature and has a good safety profile. In addition, we suggest that the use of citric acid enables the preparation of commercial digestive solutions for the detection of microorganisms in fish and other vertebrate muscle tissue.

Ethanol extract of the Prunus mume fruits stimulates glucose uptake by regulating PPAR-γ in C2C12 myotubes and ameliorates glucose intolerance and fat accumulation in mice fed a high-fat diet

In this study, we performed in vitro and in vivo studies to examine whether a 70% ethanol extract of Prunus mume fruits (EMS) exhibits anti-diabetic effects. Treatment with EMS increased glucose uptake in C2C12 myotubes, and also increased PPAR-γ activity or PPAR-γ mRNA expression. To confirm these in vitro results, we next conducted an animal experiment. A high-fat diet significantly increased the body weight, fat accumulation, and glucose levels in mice. Under the same conditions, 5% EMS attenuated the high-fat diet-induced increase in body weight and fat accumulation and improved the impaired fasting glucose level and glucose tolerance. High performance liquid chromatography analysis demonstrated that EMS contained chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, luteolin-7-glucoside, naringin, apigenin-7-glucoside, and hesperidin. Taken together, these findings suggest that EMS exerts an anti-diabetic effect both in vitro and in vivo, which is mediated, at least in part, by the activation of PPAR-γ.

Natural products as a source of anti-inflammatory agents associated with inflammatory bowel disease

Accumulating epidemiological and clinical study indicates that inflammation is a significant risk factor to develop various human diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis. Suppressing inflammation is therefore important to control or prevent various diseases. Among them, IBD is one of the major problems affecting people worldwide. IBD affects at least one in a thousand persons in many Western countries. Various natural products have been shown to safely suppress pro-inflammatory pathway and control IBD. In vivo and/or in vitro studies indicate that anti-IBD effects of natural products occur by inhibition of the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (for example, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), intercellular adhesion molecule expression and pro-inflammatory mediators (such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), master transcription factors (such as nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and by improving the antioxidant activity. In this review, we summarize recent research focused on IBD and the effects that natural products have on IBD factors.

The laxative effects of Maesil (Prunus mume Siebold & Zucc.) on constipation induced by a low-fibre diet in a rat model

Maesil (the fruit of Prunus mume Siebold & Zucc.) has long been used as an alternative medicine and functional food in Korea and Japan for preventive and therapeutic purposes. We examined the laxative effect of unripe Maesil (UM) and ripe Maesil (RM) in a rat model on constipation induced by a low-fibre diet and the possible mechanisms of Maesil in the rat colon. In vivo studies were conducted on the low-fibre diet-induced constipation rat model, and isolated rat colon was used in in vitro experiments to measure the changes in spontaneous colon contraction generated by Maesil and organic acids as standard and effectual ingredients, respectively. The aqueous extract of both UM and RM applied orally (100 and 300 mg/kg) produced significant increase of faeces frequency (p < 0.05) and moisture (p < 0.001). Moreover, the number faecal pellets number was reduced (p < 0.05) in the distal colons of the Maesil-treated rats. Gastrointestinal (GI) motility, measured by charcoal meal, was activated more fully by UM than in the low-fibre diet group. Both UM and RM and its organic acids produced a dose-dependent stimulation of the spontaneous contractile amplitude (p < 0.001) and frequency (p < 0.01) of the isolated rat colon. Although both UM and RM were an effective laxative, the RM was significantly more effective than the UM in the in vivo and in vitro constipation experiments because of the changes in the composition of organic acids during the ripening of the fruit. Our results demonstrated that Maesil was effective in promoting the frequency of defaecation and contraction of the rat colon, which provided scientific basis to support the use of Maesil as potential therapeutics in treating constipation.

Hypouricemic effect of the methanol extract from Prunus mume fruit in mice

CONTEXT

The fruit of the Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc (Rosaceae) is used as a health food or medicinal material in traditional herb medicine for a long time in Eastern Asian countries.

OBJECTIVE

Our present study investigated the hypouricemic effect of the methanol extract from P. mume fruit (MPMF) in mice with potassium oxonate-induced hyperuremia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Effect of MPMF (35, 70 and 140 mg/kg, p.o.) administrated for 7 days on the serum, liver, urinary uric acid levels and liver xanthine oxidase (XO) activity were assessed in mice.

RESULTS

Hyperuricemic mice induced by potassium oxonate demonstrated an elevation in serum and liver uric acid levels (11.0 mg/dL and 0.52 mg/g tissue) and a reduction in urinary uric acid levels (49.9 mg/dL). Oral administration of 140 mg/kg MPMF for 7 days reversed the abnormalities in serum, liver and urinary uric acid levels (7.1 mg/dL, 0.37 mg/g tissue and 69.7 mg/dL, respectively). In addition, 70 and 140 mg/kg MPMF (3.1 and 2.9 nmol/min per mg protein) inhibited liver XO activity compared with hyperuricemic mice (3.9 nmol/min per mg protein).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The results indicated that the beneficial hypouricaemic effect of MPMF may be mediated, at least in part, by inhibiting XO activity in the liver. Our study suggests that P. mume and its extracts may have a considerable potential for development as an anti-gout agent for clinical application.

Effects of new dietary fiber from Japanese Apricot (Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc.) on gut function and intestinal microflora in adult mice

Much attention has been focused recently on functional foods. Ume, the Japanese name for the apricot of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc., is an example of a Japanese traditional functional food. There are, however, few reports on the effects of fiber from this fruit on bowel function. With this objective, we prepared ume fiber to test the hypothesis that it can change gut function and intestinal flora in mice. Mice were fed an ume fiber (UF) or cellulose (CF) diet (control) for 40 days. The fecal weight, fecal lipids, plasma lipids and cecal composition of the microflora were analyzed. The amount of feces was significantly greater in the UF group than in the CF group (p < 0.01). The fecal lipids content (% DW) of the feces sampled on the final day of the experiment were significantly greater in the UF group than in the CF group (p < 0.01). Plasma non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) concentrations tended to be lower in the UF compared to the CF group (p = 0.058). Occupation ratios of Bacteroides and Clostridium cluster IV were significantly greater in the cecal flora of the UF group. Our results suggest that ume fiber possesses the fecal lipid excretion effects and feces bulking effects.

Mutagenicity and safety evaluation of ethanolic extract of Prunus mume

The ethanolic extract of Prunus mume (EPM) is a novel polyphenol preparation derived from branches (with leaves) of Prunus mume, which could be used as a functional ingredient for antioxidant and antiobesity therapy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of EPM. An EPM was prepared and evaluated for oral acute and subacute toxicity in Sprague-Dawley rats, while its mutagenic potential was assessed by a reverse mutation test using Salmonella typhimurium, by a bone marrow cell micronucleus test using ICR mice, and by a sperm abnormality test using ICR mice. The results showed no acute lethal effects at the maximal tested EPM dose of 20 g/kg bw in either rats or mice, suggesting that EPM can be regarded as virtually nontoxic. Administration at levels of 0.84, 1.67, and 3.33 g/kg bw to rats for 30 d did not induce any significant hematological, clinical, chemical, or histopathological changes. No mutagenicity evidence was detected in any of the 3 mutagenic tests. The level of "no observed adverse effect" (NOAEL) for EPM was above 3.33 g/kg bw for the subacute toxicity study.

Antimicrobial activity of sodium citrate against Streptococcus pneumoniae and several oral bacteria

AIMS

The aim of this study is to assess the antibacterial activity of sodium citrate against Streptococcus pneumoniae and several oral bacteria.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The antibacterial activity was determined by broth microdilution method. The results showed that although Enterocuccus faecium OB7084 and Klebsiella pneumoniae OB7088 had high tolerance to sodium citrate, several oral bacteria including Fusobacterium nucleatum JCM8532(T) , Streptococcus mutans JCM5705(T) and Strep. pneumoniae NBRC102642(T) were susceptible. Furthermore, the bactericidal activity of sodium citrate against Strep. pneumoniae NBRC102642(T) was not influenced by pH in the range of 5·0-8·0, whereas that of sodium lactate was weakened at neutral or weak alkaline pH. When Strep. pneumoniae NBRC102642(T) was treated with sodium citrate for 2 h, many burst cells were observed. However, addition of MgCl(2) or CaCl(2) to an assay medium weakened the antimicrobial activity although ZnCl(2) or MnCl(2) did not influence.

CONCLUSIONS

Independent of pH, sodium citrate inhibited the growth of oral bacteria, which suggests that the mechanism is different from that of sodium lactate.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The results presented in this study would be available for understanding the antimicrobial property of sodium citrate.

Microwave-assisted autohydrolysis of Prunus mume stone for extraction of polysaccharides and phenolic compounds

Stone of Prunus mume (P. mume) is a by-product of pickled P. mume industry. Stones of native and pickled P. mume, mainly composed of holocellulose (83.8 +/- 1.8% and 65.1 +/- 0.3%, respectively) and acid-insoluble lignin (25.3 +/- 2.2% and 30.6 +/- 0.9%, respectively), were autohydrolyzed by microwave heating to extract polysaccharides and phenolic compounds. By heating at 200 to 230 degrees C, 48.0% to 60.8% of polysaccharide and 84.1% to 97.9% of phenolic compound were extracted in water along with partial degradation of hemicelluloses and lignin. The extracted liquors showed antioxidant activity against hydroxyl radical and DPPH radical originated from phenolic compounds. The pickled P. mume stone showed higher autohydrolyzability and microwave absorption capacity than the native stone due to absorbed salts and acids during pickling in fruit juice of P. mume with external addition of sodium chloride. Pickling process in salty and weak acidic juice seemed to be a kind of pretreatment for softening the stones prior to autohydrolysis induced by microwave heating.

Immune-enhancing effect of fermented Maesil (Prunus mume Siebold & Zucc.) with probiotics against Bordetella bronchiseptica in mice

Maesil (Prunus mume) has long been used as a traditional drug and healthy food in East Asian countries. It possesses a number of beneficial biological activities including potential antimicrobial effects against pathogens. Probiotics also have antibacterial effects. Moreover, some probiotics have an important role in regulating the immune system. The present study evaluated the immune enhancing effects of fermented Maesil with probiotics (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Bacillus subtilis and Lactobacillus acidophilus) in mice, especially against Bordetella bronchiseptica, as an initial step towards the development of feed supplements for the promotion of immune activity and prevention of disease, especially in pigs. Continuous ingestion of fermented Maesil with probiotics markedly increased the macrophage ratio in peripheral blood and the T lymphocyte ratio in the spleen. In addition, antibody production against formalin-killed B. bronchiseptica significantly increased in the mice fed fermented Maesil compared with the control group. The number of leukocytes was significantly higher in the bronchio-alveolar lavage obtained from the fermented Maesil-fed animals compared to it in the control group at day 3 (maximal peak time) after experimental B. bronchiseptica infection. Moreover, at 7 day post-infection, relative messenger RNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor- α and interferon-γ were significantly increased in splenocytes of mice fed fermented Maesil compared with those in the control group. Taken together, these findings suggest that feed containing fermented Maesil with probiotics enhances immune activity in mice, especially against B. bronchiseptica, via the potent stimulation of non-specific immune responses.

Fermented Maesil (Prunus mume) with probiotics inhibits development of atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice

Maesil (Prunus mume Siebold & Zucc.), a potential source of free radical scavengers and inhibitor of pro-inflammatory mediators, is used in traditional Korean medical preparations as a remedy for skin disorders as have probiotics. The action of a probiotic fermented Maesil preparation on the development of atopic dermatitis (AD)-like skin lesions was determined in a NC/Nga mouse model as an initial step towards the development of a therapeutic feed supplement for use in dogs. Continuous ingestion of the experimental feed markedly inhibited the development of the AD-like skin lesions, as evidenced by a marked decrease in skin signs and reduced inflammation within the skin lesions. Efficacy was confirmed by significant decreases in eosinophil ratio and serum IgE concentration, and a reduction in the number of Staphylococcus aureus recovered from the ear. Relative mRNA expression levels of IL-4, interferon-gamma and tumour necrosis factor-alpha in the spleens of the experimental animals were also decreased and there was an increased serum concentration of IL-10 with a concurrent decreased IL-4 concentration in comparison to a control group. Taken together, the results indicate that some component(s) of fermented Maesil have the ability to suppress the development of AD-like skin lesions, possibly by stimulation of IL-10. Beneficial effects of fermented Maesil may thus be expected in dogs with AD, although this and the nature of the active pathway remain to be explored.