Phototrophic bacteria as potential probiotics for corals

Coral-associated microorganisms provide crucial nutritional, protective, and developmental benefits, yet many functional traits remain unexplored. Phototrophic bacteria may enhance coral nutrition and reduce oxidative stress during bleaching via photosynthesis and antioxidant production. Despite this potential, their role in the holobiont's energy budget and heat stress resilience is understudied. This review explores the functional traits and potential of phototrophic bacteria to enhance coral health and resilience under environmental stress.

Metabolomics reveals the size effect of microplastics impeding membrane synthesis in rice cells

The global-scale production of plastics has led to a significant accumulation in the environment, and it has become a major stressor to environmental sustainability, agricultural crops, and human health. Here we report the particle size effect of polystyrene (PS, typically microplastic) on the impact on rice suspension cells. This study used PS of different particle sizes (30 nm, 200 nm, and 2 μm) in a three-day co-culture experiment, the results showed that 30 nm, 200 nm, and 2 μm PS at the same concentration (100 μg/mL) caused 4.6 %, 55.8 %, and 66.4 % decrease in rice suspension cell viability, respectively. Furthermore, a substantial reduction in protein content, amounting to 26.53 % and 48.47 %, was observed in cells treated with 200 nm and 2 μm PS, and the DNA and RNA content of rice suspension cells also decreased substantially at 100 μg/mL PS. Non-targeted metabolomics analyses showed that PS disrupted fatty acid biosynthesis with a clear size effect, wherein 2 μm PS caused a decrease of 64.9 % in hexadecanoic acid content. Consequently, this finding provides valuable perspectives on the potential ecotoxicity of microplastics at the single-cell level of rice and will facilitate the formulation of an environmental management program specifically tailored for addressing the challenges posed by microplastics.

Gardenia yellow pigment: Extraction methods, biological activities, current trends, and future prospects

Food coloring plays a vital role in influencing consumers' food choices, imparting vibrant and appealing colors to various food and beverage products. Synthetic food colorants have been the most commonly used coloring agents in the food industry. However, concerns about potential health issues related to synthetic colorants, coupled with increasing consumer demands for food safety and health, have led food manufacturers to explore natural alternatives. Natural pigments not only offer a wide range of colors to food products but also exhibit beneficial bioactive properties. Gardenia yellow pigment is a water-soluble natural pigment with various biological activities, widely present in gardenia fruits. Therefore, this paper aims to delve into Gardenia Yellow Pigment, highlighting its significance as a food colorant. Firstly, a thorough understanding and exploration of various methods for obtaining gardenia yellow pigment. Subsequently, the potential functionality of gardenia yellow pigment was elaborated, especially its excellent antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. Finally, the widespread application trend of gardenia yellow pigment in the food industry was explored, as well as the challenges faced by the future development of gardenia yellow pigment in the field of food and health. Some feasible solutions were proposed, providing valuable references and insights for researchers, food industry professionals, and policy makers.

Antioxidant activities of thermally treated Sesamum indicum L. leaf extracts and their inhibitory effects against growth and metastatic properties of human colon cancer cells

The study aimed to investigate antioxidant activities of two different thermally treated sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) leaf ethanol extract, steamed sesame leaf extract (SSLE) and roasted sesame leaf extract (RSLE), and their inhibitory effects on uncontrolled growth and increased metastatic properties in human colon cancer cell lines. Both SSLE and RSLE contained pedaliin as the major polyphenol and its aglycon, pedalitin, as a minor component and exhibited radical scavenging activities and ferric reducing antioxidant power. SSLE and RSLE decreased growth of HT29 and HCT116 colon cancer cells, which was attributed to the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at either G2/M (by SSLE in HCT116) or S phase (by RSLE in HCT116). Furthermore, SSLE and RSLE inhibited migration and adhesion in both cell lines. These results indicate that thermally treated sesame leaves retained pedaliin content and exhibited antioxidant activities and inhibitory activities against the growth and metastatic properties of colon cancer cells.

Investigation of oxidative characteristics, fatty acid composition and bioactive compounds content in cold pressed oils of sunflower grown in Serbia and Argentina

BACKGROUND

In this work, the chemical composition analysis was performed for cold pressed oils obtained from the 15 sunflower hybrids grown in Serbia and Argentina, as well as the determination of their oxidative quality. The fatty acid composition and bioactive compounds including total tocopherols, phenols, carotenoids, and chlorophyll contents were investigated. The oxidation products were monitored through the peroxide value (PV), anisidine value (AnV), conjugated dienes (CD) and conjugated trienes (CT) content, and total oxidation index (TOTOX) under accelerated oxidation conditions by the oven method.

RESULTS

Linoleic acid was the most abundant fatty acid in investigated oil samples, followed by oleic and palmitic acids. The mean contents of total tocopherols, phenols, carotenoids, and chlorophyll were 518.24, 9.42, 7.54 and 0.99 mg/kg, respectively. In order to obtain an overview of sample variations according to the tested parameters Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied.

CONCLUSION

PCA indicated that phenols, chlorophyll, linoleic and oleic acid were the most effective variables for the differentiation of sunflower hybrids grown in Serbia and Argentina. Furthermore, based on the fatty acid composition and bioactive compounds content in the oils, a new Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model was developed to predict the oxidative stability parameters of cold pressed sunflower oil.

Association of vitamins, minerals, and lead with lipoprotein(a) in a cross-sectional cohort of US adults

Lipoprotein(a)(Lp[a]) is a low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C)-like particle with potent pro-atherothrombotic properties. The association of Lp(a) with several circulating factors, including vitamins, remains unresolved. We performed an observational analysis using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III cohort, a cohort used to monitor the nutrition status of US-citizens. We used multivariable linear regression to test associations of Lp(a) and LDL-C with levels of serum vitamins and minerals and whole-blood lead. Analyses controlled for factors known to associate with Lp(a) (age, sex, race/ethnicity, statin use, hemoglobin A1c, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, glomerular filtration rate, alcohol intake, and saturated fat intake). LDL-C was corrected for Lp(a) mass. Multiple sensitivity tests were performed, including considering factors as categorical variables (deficient, normal, elevated). Among 7,662 subjects, Lp(a) correlated (β-coefficient) positively (change per 1 conventional unit increase) with carotenoids (lycopene (0.17(0.06,0.28), p=0.005), lutein (0.19(0.07,0.30), p=0.002), β-cryptoxanthin (0.21(0.05,0.37), p=0.01), β-carotene (0.05(0.02,0.09), p=0.003), and α-carotene (0.15(0.01,0.30), p=0.04)) and lead (0.54(0.03,1.05), p=0.04) levels when tested as continuous variables. LDL-C had similar associations. Lp(a) did not associate with vitamins A, B12, C, or E retinyl esters, folate, RBC-folate, selenium, ferritin, transferrin saturation, or calcium. With factors as categorical variables, Lp(a) but not LDL-C negatively associated with elevated vitamin B12 (-5.41(-9.50, -1.53), p=0.01) and folate (-2.86(-5.09, -0.63), p=0.01). In conclusion, Lp(a) associated similarly to LDL-C when vitamins, minerals, and lead were tested as continuous variables, while only Lp(a) correlated with vitamin B12 and folate when tested as categorical variables. These observations are hypotheses generating and require further studies to determine causality.

The combined treatments of brassinolide and zeaxanthin better alleviate oxidative damage and improve hypocotyl length, biomass, and the quality of radish sprouts stored at low temperature

The rot and deterioration of sprouts are closely related to their physiological state and postharvest storage quality. The study investigated the influences of brassinolide, zeaxanthin, and their combination on physiological metabolism, chlorophyll fluorescence, and nutritional quality of radish sprouts stored at 4 °C. The combined treatments enhanced hypocotyl length, fresh weight, contents of secondary metabolites, nutritional ingredients, glutathione, the photoprotective capacity of PSII, and FRAP level in radish sprouts compared with zeaxanthin alone. The combined treatments enhanced hypocotyl length, fresh weight, glutathione content, Fv/Fm value, and antioxidant capacity in sprouts compared to brassinolide alone. The combined treatment of zeaxanthin and brassinolide could make radish sprouts keep high biomass and antioxidant capacity by increasing the contents of stress-resistant metabolites and by weakening the photoinhibition of PSII in radish sprouts stored at 4 °C.

Characterization of carotenoids double-encapsulated and incorporate in functional stirred yogurt

Carrot industry processing outputs 50% waste from raw materials; this waste contains polyphenols and carotenoids, which are a significant natural source of pro-vitamin A. Also, yogurt's high consumption globally allows for designing a new functional product. So the goal is to enhance the functionality of fortified stirred yogurt by incorporating carotenoid beads. The carotenoids were extracted from carrot waste using ultrasonication. Then nanoemulsion carotenoids incorporating with alginate to produce beads by extrusion technique. Measurement of carotenoid stability to nanoemulsion and beads. Manufactured five treatments of orange-flavored stirred yogurt and investigated its physicochemical properties, LAB survival, viscosity, and sensory acceptability. Findings – Carrot waste extract had about 44.75 ± 3.15 mg/g of β-carotene. The mean particle size of the nanoemulsion decreased with the increasing carotenoid addition (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%) of carrot waste extract. The mean diameters of the alginate beads with nanoemulsions were 1.498 ± 0.245, 1.654 ± 0.310, and 1.792 ± 0.454 mm, respectively. The highest chemical stability of carotenoids showed with the alginate beads after Storage at 55°C to 14 days, compared with free or nanoemulsion carotenoids. Yogurt's physicochemical properties, viscosity, and LAB count improve when double-encapsulated carotenoids are added. Carotenoid double-encapsulation appeared to have a high ability to protect carotenoids from degradation and the ability to be applied in dairy and pharmaceutical products. Also, the resultant stirred yogurt with carotenoids-loaded beads gave carotenoids high stability and sensory acceptability.

The Effect of β-Carotene, Tocopherols and Ascorbic Acid as Anti-Oxidant Molecules on Human and Animal In Vitro/In Vivo Studies: A Review of Research Design and Analytical Techniques Used

Prolonged elevated oxidative stress (OS) possesses negative effect on cell structure and functioning, and is associated with the development of numerous disorders. Naturally occurred anti-oxidant compounds reduce the oxidative stress in living organisms. In this review, antioxidant properties of β-carotene, tocopherols and ascorbic acid are presented based on in vitro, in vivo and populational studies. Firstly, environmental factors contributing to the OS occurrence and intracellular sources of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation, as well as ROS-mediated cellular structure degradation, are introduced. Secondly, enzymatic and non-enzymatic mechanism of anti-oxidant defence against OS development, is presented. Furthermore, ROS-preventing mechanisms and effectiveness of β-carotene, tocopherols and ascorbic acid as anti-oxidants are summarized, based on studies where different ROS-generating (oxidizing) agents are used. Oxidative stress biomarkers, as indicators on OS level and prevention by anti-oxidant supplementation, are presented with a focus on the methods (spectrophotometric, fluorometric, chromatographic, immuno-enzymatic) of their detection. Finally, the application of Raman spectroscopy and imaging as a tool for monitoring the effect of anti-oxidant (β-carotene, ascorbic acid) on cell structure and metabolism, is proposed. Literature data gathered suggest that β-carotene, tocopherols and ascorbic acid possess potential to mitigate oxidative stress in various biological systems. Moreover, Raman spectroscopy and imaging can be a valuable technique to study the effect of oxidative stress and anti-oxidant molecules in cell studies.

Comparative Analysis between Synthetic Vitamin E and Natural Antioxidant Sources from Tomato, Carrot and Coriander in Diets for Market-Sized Dicentrarchus labrax

Synthetic vitamin E is commonly used in aquafeeds to prevent oxidative stress in fish and delay feed and flesh oxidation during storage, but consumers’ preferences tend towards natural antioxidant sources. The potential of vegetable antioxidants-rich coproducts, dried tomato (TO), carrot (CA) and coriander (CO) was compared to that of synthetic vitamin E included in diets at either a regular (CTRL; 100 mg kg⁻¹) or reinforced dose (VITE; 500 mg kg⁻¹). Natural antioxidants were added at 2% to the CTRL. Mixes were then extruded and dried, generating five experimental diets that were fed to European sea bass juveniles (114 g) over 12 weeks. Vitamin E and carotenoid content of extruded diets showed signs of degradation. The experimental diets had very limited effects on fish growth or body composition, immunomodulatory response, muscle and liver antioxidant potential, organoleptic properties or consumer acceptance. Altogether, experimental findings suggest that neither a heightened inclusion dose of 500 mg kg⁻¹ of vitamin E, nor a 2% inclusion of natural antioxidants provided additional antioxidant protection, compared to fish fed diets including the regular dose of 100 mg kg⁻¹ of vitamin E.

Oxidative Stress and Cellular Senescence: The Key Tumor-promoting Factors in Colon Cancer and Beneficial Effects of Polyphenols in Colon Cancer Prevention

Background:

Colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Colon tumorigenesis is a sequential process called “Adenoma-carcinoma sequence”. The alimentary habits, obesity, heavy alcohol consumption, inflammatory bowel diseases, family history of colon cancer, oxidative stress, and cellular senescence are the major risk factor influencing colon cancer development. Senescence contributes to the aging process as well as the development and progression of colon cancer. However, the precise mechanism underlying the aging-related progress of colon cancer is yet to be answered. Recent studies proposed that the senescent cell secretes Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP) includes pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukins, growth factors, and proteases actively involved in the creation of pro-tumorigenic microenvironment.

Objective:

This review aims to provide an overview of ROS influence cellular senescence and colon cancer development as well as summarize the antioxidant and antiaging activity of natural flavonoids. Many of the studies had reported that pro-aging genes suppress cancer and various ‘markers’ are used to identify senescent cells in vitro and in vivo. The SASP of the cells may act as a link between senescence and cancer.

Conclusion:

This review facilitates a better understanding and might contribute to diagnostic and prognostic systems as well as to find out the novel and targeted therapeutic approaches. Additionally, we focused on the potential role of natural flavonoids in colon cancer therapies and highlighting the flavonoid-based treatments as innovative immunomodulatory strategies to inhibit the growth of colon cancer.

Evaluation of Quality Characteristics of Low-Nitrite Pork Sausages with Paprika Oleoresin Solution during Refrigerated Storage

The objective of this study was to evaluate quality characteristics of pork emulsified-sausage (ES) containing paprika oleoresin solution (POS) as a replacement for sodium nitrite (NaNO₂) during refrigerated storage. ESs were prepared with four treatments: 1) REF, 150 ppm NaNO₂; 2) CTL, 75 ppm NaNO₂; 3) TRT1, 75 ppm NaNO₂+0.1% POS (1% paprika oleoresin+99% sunflower seed oil); and 4) TRT2, 75 ppm NaNO₂+0.1% POS (5% paprika oleoresin+95% sunflower seed oil). The addition of POS into ES increased redness and yellowness but decreased lightness (p<0.05). TRT1 and TRT2 had higher redness and yellowness than CTL (p<0.05). TRT1 and TRT2 had lower total plate counts (Log CFU/g) than CTL due to antimicrobial activity of POS, regardless of its levels (p<0.05). Residual nitrite decreased with increasing storage time for all treatments. TRT2 had lower residual nitrite due to nitrite scavenging activity of POS (p<0.05). CTL had the highest thiobarbituric acid reactant substances (TBARS) among all treatments during storage. The addition of POS into ES showed nitrite scavenging activity during refrigerated storage. In conclusion, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the ES with a combination of POS and 75 ppm NaNO₂ were similar to those of REF (150 ppm NaNO₂), and improved color development of redness value. Therefore, the addition of POS could decrease the amount of nitrite in ESs, leading to healthier meat products.

β-Carotene: Preventive Role for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity: A Review

Carotenoids are vital antioxidants for plants and animals. They protect cells from oxidative events and act against the inflammatory process and carcinogenesis. Among the most abundant carotenoids in human and foods is β-carotene. This carotenoid has the highest level of provitamin A activity, as it splits into two molecules of retinol through the actions of the cytosolic enzymes: β-carotene-15,15′-monooxygenase (β-carotene-15,15′-oxygenase 1) and β-carotene-9′,10′-dioxygenase (β-carotene-9′,10′-oxygenase 2). The literature supports the idea that β-carotene acts against type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Due to the many processes involved in β-carotene biosynthesis and metabolic function, little is known about such components, since many mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. Therefore, our study concisely described the relationships between the consumption of carotenoids, with emphasis on β-carotene, and obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus and its associated parameters in order to understand the preventive role of carotenoids better and encourage their consumption.

Oxidative Stress and Marine Carotenoids: Application by Using Nanoformulations

Carotenoids are natural fat-soluble pigments synthesized by plants, algae, fungi and microorganisms. They are responsible for the coloration of different photosynthetic organisms. Although they play a role in photosynthesis, they are also present in non-photosynthetic plant tissues, fungi, and bacteria. These metabolites have mainly been used in food, cosmetics, and the pharmaceutical industry. In addition to their utilization as pigmentation, they have significant therapeutically applications, such as improving immune system and preventing neurodegenerative diseases. Primarily, they have attracted attention due to their antioxidant activity. Several statistical investigations indicated an association between the use of carotenoids in diets and a decreased incidence of cancer types, suggesting the antioxidant properties of these compounds as an important factor in the scope of the studies against oxidative stress. Unusual marine environments are associated with a great chemical diversity, resulting in novel bioactive molecules. Thus, marine organisms may represent an important source of novel biologically active substances for the development of therapeutics. Marine carotenoids (astaxanthin, fucoxanthin, β-carotene, lutein but also the rare siphonaxanthin, sioxanthin, and myxol) have recently shown antioxidant properties in reducing oxidative stress markers. Numerous of bioactive compounds such as marine carotenoids have low stability, are poorly absorbed, and own very limited bioavailability. The new technique is nanoencapsulation, which can be used to preserve marine carotenoids and their original properties during processing, storage, improve their physiochemical properties and increase their health-promoting effects. This review aims to describe the role of marine carotenoids, their potential applications and different types of advanced nanoformulations preventing and treating oxidative stress related disorders.

Crocin: a protective natural antioxidant against pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and fibrotic lung disease of unknown causes. Given the crucial role of oxidative stress in the progression of IPF, antioxidant therapy may be speculated to be an efficient therapeutic approach. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Crocin as a potent, natural antioxidant against Bleomycin-induced PF in male Wistar rats.

METHODS

Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. Group 1 received intratracheal saline on day 7 and oral gavage of saline for 28 days. Group 2 received a single dose of Bleomycin on day 7 and oral gavage of saline for 28 days. Groups 3 received a single dose of Bleomycin on day 7, accompanied with oral administration of Crocin for 28 days. Group 4 orally received Crocin for 28 days. Finally, the lungs were removed for measuring the biochemical and histopathological markers.

RESULTS

The results showed that Crocin therapy remarkably decreased TNF-α, MDA and NO levels in the lungs of Bleomycin-exposed rats. Furthermore, a significant increase was seen in lung GSH content, catalase, and GPx activities in the Crocin/Bleomycin-treated group as compared with Bleomycin-treated group. However, Crocin could not markedly change the lung index and SOD activity. Histopathological changes, fibrosis and hydroxyproline content of lungs also significantly decreased by Crocin therapy in the Crocin/Bleomycin-treated group.

CONCLUSION

In sum, Crocin therapy could modulate biochemical and histological changes induced by Bleomycin; therefore, it might be considered as an effective therapeutic approach against IPF.

Effect of Natural Food Antioxidants against LDL and DNA Oxidative Changes

Radical oxygen species formed in human tissue cells by many endogenous and exogenous pathways cause extensive oxidative damage which has been linked to various human diseases. This review paper provides an overview of lipid peroxidation and focuses on the free radicals-initiated processes of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidative modification and DNA oxidative damage, which are widely associated with the initiation and development of atherosclerosis and carcinogenesis, respectively. The article subsequently provides an overview of the recent human trials or even in vitro investigations on the potential of natural antioxidant compounds (such as carotenoids; vitamins C and E) to monitor LDL and DNA oxidative changes.

The influence of flaxseed gum on the microrheological properties and physicochemical stability of whey protein stabilized β-carotene emulsions

The impact of flaxseed gum (FG) on the microrheological properties and physicochemical stability of whey protein isolate (WPI) stabilized β-carotene emulsions at pH 3.0 was studied. A layer-by-layer electrostatic deposition method was used to prepare multilayered β-carotene emulsions with interfacial membranes consisting of WPI and FG. The microrheological behavior of the multilayered β-carotene emulsions was measured through the diffusive wave spectroscopy technique. WPI alone and WPI-FG (concentration of FG = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 wt%) stabilized β-carotene emulsions were purely viscous giving a mean square displacement that scaled linearly with decorrelation time (τ). The presence of 0.01, 0.02, and 0.05 wt% FG in the WPI-stabilized emulsions caused them to exhibit viscoelastic properties. Meanwhile, the increase in τ reflected the increase in the length scale of connectivity in the emulsions until a "cluster" was formed and the droplets were not free to move due to droplet-network interaction. The apparent increase in the macroscopic viscosity and elasticity index and decrease in the solid lipid balance and fluidity index of emulsions with lower concentrations (0.01, 0.02, 0.05 wt%) of FG indicated that the bridging flocculation of FG had a much more appreciable influence on the microrheological properties than depletion flocculation (higher concentrations, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 wt%). Droplet size, zeta-potential, and transmission profiles using the centrifugal sedimentation technique and β-carotene degradation during storage were also characterized. With the addition of FG, the zeta-potential of WPI coated β-carotene droplets decreased from positive to negative, and an increase in the apparent droplet size was also noted. LUMISizer analysis exhibited an improvement in physical stability with the addition of 0.1 wt% FG. FG also helped to chemically stabilize the WPI emulsions against β-carotene degradation mainly by slowing down the mobility of the droplets.

Physicochemical stability, antioxidant properties and bioaccessibility of β-carotene in orange oil-in-water beverage emulsions: influence of carrier oil types

The bioaccessibility of β-carotene in beverage emulsions was enhanced by modifying the lipid composition of the dispersed phase.

Lipophilic antioxidants and lipid peroxidation in yellow perch subjected to various anthropogenic influences along the St. Lawrence River (QC, Canada)

In Lake Saint-Pierre (LSP), the last great widening of the St. Lawrence River (province of Québec, Canada), the yellow perch has been experiencing a significant decline since the mid-1990s. The combined effect of several stressors (deterioration of habitats appropriate for reproduction and growth, invasive species and poor water quality) seems to exert considerable influence on the yellow perch population in LSP, characterized by low recruitment. To better understand possible stressor effects at the biochemical level, LSP yellow perch were compared with other sites along a gradient of increasing human influences from upstream to downstream along the St. Lawrence River. Morphometry (size, weight, circumference and Fulton's condition factor) and biomarkers associated to the peroxidation of lipids, lipophilic antioxidants (α-tocopherol and carotenoids), along with retinoids (vitamins A1and A2) and proteins were compared between sites at the larval, juvenile and adult stages. Fulton's condition factor was similar between sites for juveniles but was significantly lower in LSP adults, suggesting a weakened physiological condition. In most contaminated sites as LSP, lipid peroxidation tended to be higher in juveniles and adults whereas the lipophilic antioxidant lycopene and proteins content were lower. Retinyl esters were significantly lower for LSP fish compared to other sites, not only in larvae but also in the livers of juveniles and adults. These results are consistent with possible altered metabolism in the retinoid system of LSP yellow perch. The overall results reflect the "pressure" gradient tested, where the yellow perch from the most affected sites located downstream had impaired physiological and biochemical conditions compared to the upstream sectors.

Anti- and pro-oxidative effect of fresh and freeze-dried vegetables during storage of mayonnaise

Mayonnaise was supplemented with vegetables (5 % w/w) and the effect of storage time at 4 °C on the oxidative stability of the dispersed phase was investigated. Results indicated that mayonnaise is prone to lipid oxidation during storage under refrigerator conditions. The type of vegetable used for mayonnaise reformulation was critical in inhibiting oxidation and followed the order beetroot > carrot ≈ onion with respect to antioxidant capacity. Broccoli induced a pro-oxidant effect and the rate of oxidation by the end of the storage period was 42 times higher compared with the control. The addition of beetroot, either fresh or freeze-dried, improved the oxidative stability of mayonnaise significantly. The process of freeze-drying affected adversely the ability of vegetables to decrease oil oxidation of the emulsions. This may reflect loss of important natural antioxidants during the drying procedure.

HPLC Analysis and Determination of Carotenoid Pigments in Commercially Available Plant Extracts

Carotenoids are a class of natural pigments, familiar to all through the orange-red colours, which are added to many manufactured foods in the forms of natural extracts or as pure chmically syntesided compounds in order to give the desired colouring properties. Recent evidence has correlated a diet rich in certain carotenoids with an increased protection against cardiovascular diseases or even certain types of cancer. In addition, on going research examines potential protective effects of these natural compounds in food systems e.g. oils and food emulsions. In order to understand and optimise the activity of the natural extracts when used in vitro or in vivo , it is really important first to to identify those active coumpounds that account for any any dietary and functional role. This paper focuses on the HPLC analysis of certain plant extracts aiming at the quantification and identification of the present natural carotenoid pigments. Saponification prior to HPLC Analysis was found to be successful in order to remove unwanted lipids and esters and thereby facilitate the idientification of main carotenoid pigments in the natural extracts. By use of UV spectroscopy, the total carotenoid content of each natural extract was also roughly estimated based on their extinction coefficient at the λmax of the main carotenoid pigment following dilution at the appropriate solvent. The identification and quantification of carotenoids in plant extract is considerd as essential in the further developmnt and optimisation of their functional uses as additives and dietary supplements.

A Review of the Structure, Biosynthesis, Absorption of Carotenoids-Analysis and Properties of their Common Natural Extracts

Carotenoids are a class of natural pigments familiar to all through the orange-red colours of popular foods like oranges, tomatoes and carrots and the yellow colour of many flowers. They have been studied for a number of years because of their diverse roles in photobiology, photochemistry and photo medicine. Carotenoids are also added as colorants to many manufactured foods, drinks, and animal feeds, either in the forms of natural extracts (e.g annatto, paprika or marigold extracts) or as pure compounds manufactured by chemical synthesis. Carotenoids are often described as provitamins A, as this particular vitamin is a product of carotenoid metabolism. The distribution of carotenoids among the different plant groups shows no obvious pattern. b-Carotene is the most abundant in leafy vegetables, though the colour is masked by its co-existence with chlorophyll, and this carotenoid has the highest vitamin A activity. Zeaxanthin, a-carotene and antheraxanthin are also present in small amounts. In the tomato, lycopene is the major carotenoid, while fruits contain varying proportions of cryptoxanthin, lutein and antheraxanthin. In this review paper the natural occurrence of carotenoids (with focus on certain natural extracts) is described along with its structure and physicochemical properties. The biosynthesis - industrial synthesis and absorption of carotenoids is also discussed. Finally, a brief overview of analysis and properties of commonly available natural carotenoid extracts (annato, paprika, xanthophylls, lycopene) are also reported.

Protective effect of shrimp carotenoids against ammonia stress in common carp, Cyprinus carpio

This study is aimed at evaluating the protective effect of shrimp carotenoids on ammonia stress in common carp. Crude carotenoid extract from shrimp exoskeleton, astaxanthin and astaxanthin ester fractionated from crude extract was fed to the common carp fingerlings at 100 and 200ppm concentration by incorporating carotenoids into feed. Experimental and control fish were then exposed to sublethal dose of ammonia. Serum total antioxidant status (TAS), activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase were measured to determine the effect of dietary carotenoid on defense status of fish. Activities of aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were measured to determine the protective effect of carotenoids against tissue damage caused by the ammonia stress. TAS, catalase and SOD activity was higher in tissues from fish fed with the diet containing astaxanthin rich and astaxanthin ester rich extract compared to fish fed with control diet. TAS reduced in the tissues considerably after exposure to ammonia. However, TAS was still higher in tissues from fish fed with carotenoid containing diet than in tissues from fish fed with control diet. Eventhough there was an increase in the activities of ALT and AST due to stress by ammonia toxicity in all groups, fish fed with astaxanthin extract had lower activities and also prevented lipid peroxidation in the tissues. In conclusion, shrimp carotenoid increased the resistance of common carp fingerlings to ammonia induced stress.

Red Sea Suberea mollis Sponge Extract Protects against CCl4-Induced Acute Liver Injury in Rats via an Antioxidant Mechanism

Recent studies have demonstrated that marine sponges and their active constituents exhibited several potential medical applications. This study aimed to evaluate the possible hepatoprotective role as well as the antioxidant effect of the Red Sea Suberea mollis sponge extract (SMSE) on carbon tetrachloride- (CCl₄-) induced acute liver injury in rats. In vitro antioxidant activity of SMSE was evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) assay. Rats were orally administered three different concentrations (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) of SMSE and silymarin (100 mg/kg) along with CCl₄ (1 mL/kg, i.p., every 72 hr) for 14 days. Plasma aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin were measured. Hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) were also measured. Liver specimens were histopathologically examined. SMSE showed strong scavenging activity against free radicals in DPPH assay. SMSE significantly reduced liver enzyme activities. Moreover, SMSE significantly reduced hepatic MDA formation. In addition, SMSE restored GSH, NO, SOD, GPx, and CAT. The histopathological results confirmed these findings. The results of this study suggested a potent protective effect of the SMSE against CCl₄-induced hepatic injury. This may be due to its antioxidant and radical scavenging activity.

Embryonic growth and antioxidant provision in avian eggs

Avian embryos undergo extremely rapid development over a relatively short period of time, and so are likely to suffer high levels of oxidative damage unless this is mitigated by sufficient maternal allocation of appropriate antioxidants. At a species level, it is therefore predicted that antioxidants should be allocated to eggs according to the rate of embryonic growth, such that eggs containing embryos that grow faster are furnished with higher antioxidant levels, independent of egg size. We tested this prediction for three potentially important classes of dietary-derived yolk antioxidants: carotenoids, vitamin E and vitamin A. Across species, we found positive relationships between embryonic growth rate and total yolk levels of each of the three antioxidant classes. Moreover, there were consistent differences in antioxidant provision between pairs of species that share a common initial egg mass yet have differing rates of embryonic growth, such that the eggs of the faster-developing species have higher levels of carotenoids and vitamin E. These results may explain the marked interspecific variation in antioxidant provision and provide evidence for the role that these antioxidants play during embryonic development.

Anti-aging effect of Blakeslea trispora powder on adult mice

Blakeslea trispora powder that contains 1.9 % lycopene was tested for its anti-aging effect on adult mice. 48 adult mice were administered with the powder at 0, 267, 534, 1,068 mg lycopene kg(-1) body daily for 30 days. The body weight, hematology, clinical chemical and antioxidant activities in major organs of adult mice were measured. The powder had no effect on the body weight, hematology, clinical chemical parameters of adult mice but improved the antioxidant activities in major organs of adult mice. Increased activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase and a decreased amount of malondialdehyde in liver, brain, kidney and skin of adult mice when a high-dose of the B. trispora powder was administered, suggests that it has the ability to enhance the antioxidation system and improve the anti-aging abilities of adult mice.

Stability and bioaccessibility of β-carotene in nanoemulsions stabilized by modified starches

Oil-in-water nanoemulsions stabilized by food-grade biopolymer emulsifiers (modified starches) were fabricated using high-pressure homogenization in an effort to improve the stability and bioaccessibility of β-carotene. Physicochemical and biological properties of β-carotene nanoemulsions were investigated considering the particle size, β-carotene retention, and in vitro digestion. During 30 days of storage at different conditions, the mean diameters of the emulsion systems were increased by 30-85%. The retention of β-carotene in nanoemulsions was significantly higher compared to that of the β-carotene dispersed in bulk oil. After in vitro digestion, the bioaccessibility of β-carotene was increased from 3.1% to 35.6% through nanoencapsulation. The results also indicated that modified starch with high dispersed molecular density led to a higher retention but lower bioaccessibility of β-carotene in nanoemulsions. This could be due to the thick and dense interfacial layer around the oil droplets. This result provides useful information for developing protection and delivery systems for carotenoids.

Carotenoids production in different culture conditions by Sporidiobolus pararoseus

Carotenoids produced by Sporidiobolus pararoseus were studied. It was found that biomass was connected with carbon source, temperature, and pH, but carotenoids proportion was seriously influenced by dissolved oxygen and nitrogen source. Different carotenoids could be obtained by using selected optimum conditions. In the end we established the strategies to produce β-carotene or torulene. Fed-batch fermentation in fermentor was used to prove the authenticity of our conclusions. The cell biomass, β-carotene content, and β-carotene proportion could reach 56.32 g/L, 18.92 mg/L and 60.43%, respectively, by using corn steep liquor at 0-5% of dissolved oxygen saturation. β-Carotene content was 271% higher than before this addition. The cell biomass, torulene content, and torulene proportion could reach 62.47 g/L, 31.74 mg/L, and 70.41%, respectively, by using yeast extract at 30-35% of dissolved oxygen saturation. Torulene content was 152% higher than before this addition. The strategy for enhancing specific carotenoid production by selected fermentation conditions may provide an alternative approach to enhance carotenoid production with other strains.

Evaluation of the suitability of low hazard surfactants for the separation of phenols and carotenoids from red-flesh orange juice and olive mill wastewater using cloud point extraction

Natural antioxidants derived from plant sources attract considerable scientific interest. While classic extraction methods consume high volumes of toxic organic solvents, cloud point extraction requires surfactant not exceeding 15% of the waste volume. In preliminary tests, the suitability of various low hazard surfactants (Span 20, PEG 400, Tween 80 and 20) was explored for separation of phenols and carotenoids from olive mill wastewater and red-flesh orange juice. Tween 80 showed the highest recovery and further applied to the next experiments. The most appropriate surfactant concentrations were 5% (for olive mill wastewater) and 7% (for orange juice) as indicated by recovery % and the rest cloud point extraction parameters (analyte concentration, concentration factor, and phase volume ratio). A double step CPE with 5% + 5% of Tween 80 recovered up to 94.4% of the total phenols from olive mill wastewater, while a 7% + 7% of Tween 80 recovered up to 72.4% of the total carotenoids from orange juice. Evaluation of the final effects and extraction efficiency of single and double step cloud point extraction shows that double step scheme seems to be preferable in both cases. Finally, phenols and carotenoids recovered by Tween 80 maintained high antiradical activity (DPPH test).