The value of bioactive compounds of cruciferous vegetables (Brassica) as antimicrobials and antioxidants: A review

Heating conversion of indole-3-carbinol into N-substituted oligomers with anti-melanoma effect

Cruciferous vegetables (CVs) are globally consumed with some health benefits believed to arise from indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a labile phytochemical liberated from indole glucosinolates, but few reports describe the effect of cooking on I3C reactions. Here, we present heat-promoted direct conversions of I3C in broccoli florets into indole derivatives, which are unique in the N-indolylmethylation and -hydroxymethylation of indole nuclei by 3-methyleneindole and formaldehyde formed in situ from the I3C dehydration and the dimerization of I3C to 3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM), respectively. Such N-substituted indoles were found in a range of 0.4-4.6 μg per gram of steamed broccoli florets, with a novel compound N-(indol-3-ylmethyl)-3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM-1) bio-evaluated to inhibit A375 cells with an IC50 value of 1.87 μM. In aggregation, the investigation discloses the promoting effect of heating on the I3C transformation in CVs and identifies DIM-1 as an anti-cancer drug candidate, and thus updates the knowledge of I3C and bioactive derivatives thereof.

Contribution of Phenolic Compounds to the Antioxidant Activity of Leaf and Flower Extracts of Sinapis pubescens L. subsp. pubescens (Brassicaceae)

Within a study focused on Sinapis pubescens subsp. pubescens wild from Sicily (Italy), an edible species still unexplored, our earlier published work has demonstrated good in vitro antioxidant properties for the flower and leaf hydroalcoholic extracts, exhibiting quite different qualitative-quantitative phenolic profiles. Herein, further research was designed to elucidate the role played by phenolic compounds in the different antioxidant mechanisms highlighted for the extracts. To achieve this goal, the crude extracts were subjected to liquid-liquid partitioning with solvents of increasing polarity; then, the fractions were investigated for their antioxidant properties using different in vitro assays. For both flowers and leaves, the ethyl acetate fractions exhibited the best activity in DPPH and reducing power assays, followed by n-butanol. The total phenolic content determination indicated these fractions as the phenolic-rich ones, which were characterized by HPLC-PDA/ESI-MS analysis. Conversely, the phenolic-rich fractions did not show any chelating activity, which was highlighted for the more hydrophobic ones.

The Valorization of Wastes and Byproducts from Cruciferous Vegetables: A Review on the Potential Utilization of Cabbage, Cauliflower, and Broccoli Byproducts

The management of vegetable waste and byproducts is a global challenge in the agricultural industry. As a commonly consumed vegetable crop, cruciferous vegetables marked higher amounts of wastage during their supply chain processes, with a significant contribution from cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. Therefore, the sustainable and resource-efficient utilization of discarded materials is crucial. This review explores potential applications of cruciferous vegetable waste and byproducts, spotlighting cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli in food, medicinal, and other industries. Their significance of being utilized in value-added applications is addressed, emphasizing important biomolecules, technologies involved in the valorization process, and future aspects of practical applications. Cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli generate waste and low-processing byproducts, including leaves, stems, stalks, and rot. Most of them contain high-value biomolecules, including bioactive proteins and phytochemicals, glucosinolates, flavonoids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, and tocopherols. Interestingly, isothiocyanates, derived from glucosinolates, exhibit strong anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity through various interactions with cellular molecules and the modulation of key signaling pathways in cells. Therefore, these cruciferous-based residues can be valorized efficiently through various innovative extraction and biotransformation techniques, as well as employing different biorefinery approaches. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also contributes to the development of high-value-added products for food, medicinal, and other related industries.

Current understanding and future directions of cruciferous vegetables and their phytochemicals to combat neurological diseases

Neurological disorders incidences are increasing drastically due to complex pathophysiology, and the nonavailability of disease-modifying agents. Several attempts have been made to identify new potential chemicals to combat these neurological abnormalities. At present, complete abolishment of neurological diseases is not attainable except for symptomatic relief. However, dietary recommendations to help brain development or improvement have increased over the years. In recent times, cruciferous vegetables and their phytochemicals have been identified from preclinical and clinical investigations as potential neuroprotective agents. The present review highlights the beneficial effects and molecular mechanisms of phytochemicals such as indole-3-carbinol, diindolylmethane, sulforaphane, kaempferol, selenium, lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins of cruciferous vegetables against neurological diseases including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, Huntington's disease, autism spectra disorders, anxiety, depression, and pain. Most of these cruciferous phytochemicals protect the brain by eliciting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties. Regular dietary intake of cruciferous vegetables may benefit the prevention and treatment of neurological diseases. The present review suggests that there is a lacuna in identifying the clinical efficacy of these phytochemicals. Therefore, high-quality future studies should firmly establish the efficacy of the above-mentioned cruciferous phytochemicals in clinical settings.

Plant sources, extraction techniques, analytical methods, bioactivity, and bioavailability of sulforaphane: a review

Sulforaphane (SFN) is an isothiocyanate commonly found in cruciferous vegetables. It is formed via the enzymatic hydrolysis of glucoraphanin by myrosinase. SFN exerts various biological effects, including anti-cancer, anti-oxidation, anti-obesity, and anti-inflammatory effects, and is widely used in functional foods and clinical medicine. However, the structure of SFN is unstable and easily degradable, and its production is easily affected by temperature, pH, and enzyme activity, which limit its application. Hence, several studies are investigating its physicochemical properties, stability, and biological activity to identify methods to increase its content. This article provides a comprehensive review of the plant sources, extraction and analysis techniques, in vitro and in vivo biological activities, and bioavailability of SFN. This article highlights the importance and provides a reference for the research and application of SFN in the future.

Effect of Different Pre-Growth Temperatures on the Survival Kinetics of Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes in Fresh-Cut Salad during Refrigerated Storage

The effect of the pre-growth temperature of bacterial cultures on their subsequent survival kinetics in fresh-cut produce during refrigerated storage was investigated in this study. Three-strain cocktails of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enterica, cultured at different growth temperatures (4, 21, and 37 °C) were inoculated on fresh-cut mixed salad and on individual produce in the mixed salad. The inoculated samples were stored at 4 °C and 80 ± 2% relative humidity (RH) for up to 72 h and the growth, survival, or death kinetics were determined at regular intervals. The results indicate that depending upon the type of pathogen tested, the pre-growth temperature(s) and the type of produce showed a significant (p ≤ 0.05) effect on the survival kinetics. Among the tested produce, mixed salad showed the highest reduction in L. monocytogenes pre-grown at 37 °C (1.33 log CFU/g) followed by red cabbage (0.56 log CFU/g), iceberg lettuce (0.52 log CFU/g), and carrot (-0.62 log CFU/g), after 72 h, respectively. In the case of Salmonella, carrot showed the highest reduction (1.07 log CFU/g for 37 °C pre-grown culture) followed by mixed salad (0.78 log CFU/g for 37 °C pre-grown culture), cabbage (0.76 log CFU/g for 21 °C pre-grown culture), and lettuce (0.65 log CFU/g for 4 °C pre-grown culture), respectively. Among the tested ComBase predictive models, the Baranyi-Roberts model better fitted the experimental data. These findings indicate that the appropriate selection of pre-growth environmental conditions is critical to better understand the kinetics of foodborne pathogens.

The Nephroprotective Potential of Brassica nigra Sprout Hydroalcoholic Extract against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Renal Toxicity in Rats

The nephroprotective potential of the Brassica nigra sprout (BNS) hydroalcoholic extract against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced renal toxicity in rats was the object of this study. B. nigra sprouts were prepared in the lab to monitor the bio-changes in bioactive compounds during the sprouting for up to 7 days at 17 ± 1 °C and 90% relative humidity. Subsequently, 6-day sprouts of B. nigra were selected according to their phenolics and antioxidant activity, extracted, and examined for their nephroprotective and antioxidative stress potential at 250 and 500 mg sprout extracts kg-1 bw, in vivo. Weight gain, organ weight, lipid profile, atherogenic index, kidney functions, and oxidative stress biomarkers were assessed. The results indicated that the most proficient treatment for weight gain improvement was BNS extract at 500 mg kg-1. BNS at 250 mg kg-1 was remarked as the lowest weight gain enhancer compared to the NR group. A significant increase in TG, TC, LDL-c, and VLDL-c levels in the rats with CCl4-induced renal toxicity, and a significant decrease in HDL level, was noted. The administration of the BNS extract at 250 and 500 mg kg-1 considerably attenuated TG, TC, LDL-c, and VLDL-c levels, compared to the NR group. The most efficient treatment for improving the lipid profile was the BNS extract at 500 mg kg-1, even better than 250 mg kg-1. Administrating the BNS extract substantially attenuated the alterations in the creatinine, urea, and BUN caused by the CCl4 injection. The most efficient improvement was markedly recorded with the BNS extract at 500 mg kg-1, compared to the NR group. The rats treated with the BNS extract showed significant enhancement in GSH, CAT, and SOD activities and a considerable reduction in MDA levels. Administering the BNS extract at 250 and 500 mg kg-1 can efficiently reverse CCl4 inhibition of antioxidant enzyme activities, significantly increase GSH, CAT, and SOD, and decrease the MDA levels dose-dependently. The BNS extract at 250 and 500 mg kg-1 exhibits nephroprotection and antioxidative stress in a dose-dependent matter. The total nephroprotection % was recorded at 65.18% and 99.21% for rats treated with 250 and 500 mg kg-1, respectively. These findings could prove and potentiate the nephroprotective activities of the BNS extract in the range of the given doses. Further clinical studies are highly recommended for confirming the nephroprotection efficiency of the B. nigra sprout.

From farm to fork… and beyond! UV enhances Aryl hydrocarbon receptor-mediated activity of cruciferous vegetables in human intestinal cells upon colonic fermentation

While the "farm to fork" strategy ticks many boxes in the sustainability agenda, it does not go far enough in addressing how we can improve crop nutraceutical quality. Here, we explored whether supplementary ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure during growth of broccoli and Chinese cabbage can induce bioactive tryptophan- and glucosinolate-specific metabolite accumulation thereby enhancing Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation in human intestinal cells. By combining metabolomics analysis of both plant extracts and in vitro human colonic fermentation extracts with AhR reporter cell assay, we reveal that human colonic fermentation of UVB-exposed Chinese cabbage led to enhanced AhR activation in human intestinal cells by 23% compared to plants grown without supplementary UV. Thus, by exploring aspects beyond "from farm to fork", our study highlights a new strategy to enhance nutraceutical quality of Brassicaceae, while also providing new insights into the effects of cruciferous vegetables on human intestinal health.

Brassica rapa subsp. Chinensis juice enhances Bacillus subtilis selectively in leafy green production

Bacillus subtilis (BS) is a well-known beneficial microorganism for plants but is not competitive in the plant rhizosphere microbiome. We report the selective support of Brassica rapa subsp. Chinensis (Xiao Bai Cai) juice (XBCJ) on BS both in hydroponic nutrient solution and the plant rhizosphere of lettuce. After 2 weeks of being inoculated in the lettuce rhizosphere, the Bacillus population was enumerated at 3.30 ± 0.07 log CFU/unit in the BS group and at 5.20 ± 0.39 log CFU/unit in the BS + XBCJ group (p < 0.05). Accordingly, lettuce crops from the BS + XBCJ group were significantly higher than the control group for all of the tested biomass-related parameters (p < 0.05). The treatment did not significantly affect the texture, colour, moisture contents, total phenolic contents, or antioxidant activities of the lettuce crops (p > 0.05). Non-target ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) suggested that phenolic compounds could be the key class of phytochemicals being responsible for the selectivity. High-throughput RNA-based 16S rRNA gene sequencing and analysis were performed to depict the influence of BS and XBCJ over the global microbiome compositions of plant rhizosphere.

Anticancer activity of broccoli, its organosulfur and polyphenolic compounds

The use of natural bioactive constituents from various food sources for anticancer purposes has become increasingly popular worldwide. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is on the top of the consumed vegetables by the masses. Its raw matrix contains a plethora of phytochemicals, such as glucosinolates and phenolic compounds, along with rich amounts of vitamins, and minerals. Consumption of broccoli-derived phytochemicals provides strong antioxidant effects, particularly due to its sulforaphane content, while modulating numerous molecules involved in cell cycle regulation, control of apoptosis, and tuning enzyme activity. Thus, the inclusion of broccoli in the daily diet lowers the susceptibility to developing cancers. Numerous studies have underlined the undisputable role of broccoli in the diet as a chemopreventive raw food, owing to the content in sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate produced as a result of hydrolysis of precursor glucosinolates called glucoraphanin. This review will provide evidence supporting the specific role of fresh florets and sprouts of broccoli and its key bioactive constituents in the prevention and treatment of different cancers; a number of studies carried out in the in vitro and in vivo conditions as well as clinical trials were analyzed.

Membrane permeabilizers enhance biofortification of Brassica microgreens by interspecific transfer of metabolites from tea (Camellia sinensis)

Interspecific metabolite transfer (ISMT) is a novel approach for plants biofortification. In this study, the effect of tea (Camellia sinensis; Cs), with or without membrane permeabilizers EDTA and Tween, as a donor plant on broccoli, cauliflower and kale sprouts was investigated. As a result, caffeine- and catechin-enriched broccoli, cauliflower and kale microgreens were produced. Kale sprouts were most permeable for catechins from Cs, while cauliflower was most permeable for caffeine. Cs + EDTA significantly increased vitamin C in broccoli and kale. Among the tested enzymes activity, pancreatic lipase was the most affected by the treatment with broccoli and cauliflower biofortified with Cs or Cs combined with permeabilizers. Broccoli sprouts biofortified with Cs most significantly inhibited α-amylase, while those biofortified with Cs combined with permeabilizers most significantly inhibited α-glucosidase. Results point to ISMT combined with membrane permeabilizers as a promising and eco-friendly biofortification strategy to improve the biopotential of Brassica microgreens.

The dose-response relationship of fruit and vegetable intake and risk of type 2 diabetes among rural China: The Henan Rural Cohort study

AIMS

To explore the dose-response relationship of fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake and type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk in rural China.

METHODS

A total of 38798 adults were recruited from the Henan Rural Cohort Study. F&V intake was assessed by a validated food-frequency questionnaire. Logistic regression and restricted cubic splines analysis were conducted to calculate the odds ratio (OR) for T2D relative to F&V intake and investigate the dose-response relationship.

RESULTS

Higher intake of fruit or combined F&V was in connection with a lower risk of T2D, after adjusting for multiple confounders. After analyzing the dose-response relationship, we found that the odds of T2D decreased significantly with fruit consumption ≥ 260 g/day or F&V intake between 600 and 1000 g/day. And in subgroup analysis, we found that the negative correlation between fruit consumption and T2D was more pronounced in non-current smokers and non-current drinkers.

CONCLUSIONS

High intake of fruit alone or combined F&V is related to a reduced risk of T2D in rural China. Fruit intake ≥ 260 g/day and total F&V consumption of 600-1000 g/day should be encouraged to promote good health.

Iodine supplementation through its biofortification in Brassica species depending on the type of soil

Iodine is an essential microelement for humans and its deficiency leads to iodine deficiency disorder (IDD) which is a common problem faced by people in hilly areas. Biofortification of iodine is an option to overcome the IDD problem. Herein, we investigated the iodine uptake and accumulation in the edible portion of vegetables such as Brassica napus (BNP) and Brassica pekinensis (BPK) which were grown on two different soils such as sandy soil (SS) and silty loam soil (SLS) with different concentrations of iodine application (used in sodium iodide form) such as 0 ppm, 50 ppm, and 100 ppm. The concentration of iodine was determined by the oxidation of iodide, and nutrients were examined by double acid digestion. Different concentrations of iodine were noticed in silty loam and sandy soils, roots, and shoots of BNP and BPK, while the concentration follows the order: soils > roots > shoots. Iodine concentrations in the roots of BNP and BPK ranged from 46 to 223.7 μg/g which shows a strong correlation with other soil nutrients. Moreover, a large amount of iodine was lost due to the leaching. It is concluded that the biofortification of iodine increases its concentration in Brassica species. This work provides a reference for the iodine biofortification in plant species which will be helpful to control IDD.

Brassicaceae Fungi and Chromista Diseases: Molecular Detection and Host–Plant Interaction

Brassicaceae plants cover a large number of species with great economic and nutritional importance around the world. The production of Brassica spp. is limited due to phytopathogenic fungal species causing enormous yield losses. In this scenario, precise and rapid detection and identification of plant-infecting fungi are essential to facilitate the effective management of diseases. DNA-based molecular methods have become popular methods for accurate plant disease diagnostics and have been used to detect Brassicaceae fungal pathogens. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays including nested, multiplex, quantitative post, and isothermal amplification methods represent a powerful weapon for early detection of fungal pathogens and preventively counteract diseases on brassicas with the aim to drastically reduce the fungicides as inputs. It is noteworthy also that Brassicaceae plants can establish a wide variety of relationships with fungi, ranging from harmful interactions with pathogens to beneficial associations with endophytic fungi. Thus, understanding host and pathogen interaction in brassica crops prompts better disease management. The present review reports the main fungal diseases of Brassicaceae, molecular methods used for their detection, review studies on the interaction between fungi and brassicas plants, and the various mechanisms involved including the application of omics technologies.

Natural compounds derived from Brassicaceae plants as an alternative to synthetic fungicides and their influence on soil fungus diversity

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to develop a new formulation based on active substances of natural origin to protect plant seedlings against fungal pathogens, and to evaluate the effect of this formulation on fungal communities in arable soil.

RESULTS

Coating seeds of common crop plants with a p-coumaric acid (p-CA)-based preparation resulted in a significant reduction in the growth of most of the tested pathogens. When applied to soil, both the p-CA-based formulation and Porter 250 EC had a similar overall effect on soil fungal communities and significantly altered the structure of fungal communities at all of the times examined. Shifts in the fungal community composition concerned less than 2% of the total number of amplicon sequence variants (ASVs). The strongest impact of the formulations on soil microbiota was recorded at the fourth week of treatment. Two ASVs assigned to Botrytis and Chromelosporium, known as plant pathogens, and an unidentified ASV from Diversisporales encompassing the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), were significantly depleted in soil samples treated with p-CA in comparison with Porter 250 EC.

CONCLUSION

The p-CA-based preparation has the potential to be used as an alternative to synthetic fungicides. It shows a similar effect to Porter 250 EC on the organization of soil communities, determining changes in the character of the communities of fungi in general, at any given time. Moreover, p-CA caused a reduction in ASVs belonging to Botrytis and Chromelosporium (plant pathogens) and ASVs of Diversisporales (containing arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi) in comparison with the commercial compound that was analyzed. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Anti-Colorectal Cancer Effects of Fucoidan Complex-Based Functional Beverage Through Retarding Proliferation, Cell Cycle and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Signaling Pathways

BACKGROUND

Fucus vesiculosus-derived fucoidan, a multifunctional bioactive polysaccharide sourced from marine organisms, exhibits a wide range of therapeutic properties, including its anti-tumor effects. While previous research has reported on its anti-cancer potential, limited studies have explored its synergistic capabilities when combined with other natural bioactive ingredients. In this current study, we present the development of an integrative functional beverage, denoted as VMW-FC, which is composed of a fucoidan complex (FC) along with a blend of various herbal components, including vegetables (V), mulberries and fruits (M), and spelt wheat (W).

OBJECTIVE

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant cause of mortality, particularly in metastatic cases. Therefore, the urgent need for novel alternative medicines that comprehensively inhibit CRC persists. In this investigation, we assess the impact of VMW-FC on CRC cell proliferation, cell cycle dynamics, metastasis, in vivo tumorigenesis, and potential side effects.

METHODS

Cell growth was assessed using MTT and colony formation assays, while metastatic potential was evaluated through wound healing and transwell migration assays. The underlying signaling mechanisms were elucidated through qPCR and western blot analysis. In vivo tumor formation and potential side effects were evaluated using a subcutaneous tumor-bearing NOD/SCID mouse model.

RESULTS

Our findings demonstrate that VMW-FC significantly impedes CRC proliferation and migration in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, it induces sub-G1 cell cycle arrest and an increase in apoptotic cell populations, as confirmed through flow-cytometric analysis. Notably, VMW-FC also suppresses xenograft tumor growth in NOD/SCID mice without causing renal or hepatic toxicity.

CONCLUSION

The integrative herbal concoction VMW-FC presents a promising approach for inhibiting CRC by slowing proliferation and migration, inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and suppressing markers associated with proliferation (Ki-67, PCNA, and CDKs) and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) (Vimentin, N-cadherin, and β-catenin).

Cucurbitacins as potential anticancer agents: new insights on molecular mechanisms

Since ancient times, plants have been an extensive reservoir of bioactive compounds with therapeutic interest for new drug development and clinical application. Cucurbitacins are a compelling example of these drug leads, primarily present in the plant kingdom, especially in the Cucurbitaceae family. However, these natural compounds are also known in several genera within other plant families. Beyond the Cucurbitaceae family, they are also present in other plant families, as well as in some fungi and one shell-less marine mollusc. Despite the natural abundance of cucurbitacins in different natural species, their obtaining and isolation is limited, as a result, an increase in their chemical synthesis has been developed by researchers. Data on cucurbitacins and their anticancer activities were collected from databases such as PubMed/MedLine, TRIP database, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect and the information was arranged sequentially for a better understanding of the antitumor potential. The results of the studies showed that cucurbitacins have significant biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimalarial, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective and antitumor potential. In conclusion, there are several studies, both in vitro and in vivo reporting this important anticancer/chemopreventive potential; hence a comprehensive review on this topic is recommended for future clinical research.

Effects of broccoli sprout supplements enriched in glucoraphanin on liver functions in healthy middle-aged adults with high-normal serum hepatic biomarkers: A randomized controlled trial

Sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate derived from glucoraphanin, has antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects that may be beneficial for improving liver function. However, few studies regarding the effects of glucoraphanin on the biological markers related to liver function, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (γ-GTP) in healthy individuals have been reported. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel- group trial was conducted from April 22 to December 25, 2021 and compared the effects of broccoli sprout supplements enriched in glucoraphanin (glucoraphanin supplements) (n = 35) with those of placebo supplements (n = 35). This trial was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN-CTR; ID number UMIN000044005) https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view. cgi?recptno=R000050252. Glucoraphanin significantly improved serum ALT levels at 24 weeks compared to placebo supplements. However, no significant difference in serum glutathione levels, one of the major antioxidants synthesized in the liver, was observed between the two groups. In conclusion, daily intake of the glucoraphanin supplements is beneficial for maintaining liver health in healthy, middle-aged adults with high-normal serum hepatic biomarkers, although further studies focusing on other antioxidant markers are needed to understand how glucoraphanin improves liver function.

Effects of Polyphenols and Glucosinolates in Broccoli Extract on Human Gut Microorganisms Based on Simulation In Vitro

Broccoli extract mainly contains polyphenols and glucosinolates (GSLs). GSLs can be hydrolyzed by gut microorganisms into isothiocyanates (ITCs) and other active substances. These substances have anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and atherosclerosis-reducing functions. In this study, a high concentration (2000 μmol/L GSLs and 24 μmol/L polyphenols) and a low concentration (83 μmol/L GSLs and 1 μmol/L polyphenols) of broccoli extract were prepared. Gut microorganisms from fresh human feces were cultured to simulate the gut environment in vitro. The GSL content decreased and the types and content of ITCs increased with broccoli extract hydrolysis through cyclic condensation and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses. Broccoli extract significantly increased probiotics and inhibited harmful bacteria through 16S rDNA sequencing. Based on phylum level analysis, Firmicutes and Lachnospiraceae increased significantly (P < 0.05). At the genus level, both high- and low-concentration groups significantly inhibited Escherichia and increased Bilophila and Alistipes (P < 0.05). The high-concentration group significantly increased Bifidobacterium (P < 0.05). The broccoli extract improved the richness of gut microorganisms and regulated their structure. The GSL hydrolysis was significantly correlated with Bilophila, Lachnospiraceae, Alistipes, Bifidobacterium, Escherichia, and Streptococcus (P < 0.05). These study findings provide a theoretical foundation for further exploring a probiotic mechanism of broccoli extract in the intestine.

Microorganisms-An Effective Tool to Intensify the Utilization of Sulforaphane

Sulforaphane (SFN) was generated by the hydrolysis of glucoraphanin under the action of myrosinase. However, due to the instability of SFN, the bioavailability of SFN was limited. Meanwhile, the gut flora obtained the ability to synthesize myrosinase and glucoraphanin, which could be converted into SFN in the intestine. However, the ability of microorganisms to synthesize myrosinase in the gut was limited. Therefore, microorganisms with myrosinase synthesis ability need to be supplemented. With the development of research, microorganisms with high levels of myrosinase synthesis could be obtained by artificial selection and gene modification. Researchers found the SFN production rate of the transformed microorganisms could be significantly improved. However, despite applying transformation technology and regulating nutrients to microorganisms, it still could not provide the best efficiency during generating SFN and could not accomplish colonization in the intestine. Due to the great effect of microencapsulation on improving the colonization ability of microorganisms, microencapsulation is currently an important way to deliver microorganisms into the gut. This article mainly analyzed the possibility of obtaining SFN-producing microorganisms through gene modification and delivering them to the gut via microencapsulation to improve the utilization rate of SFN. It could provide a theoretical basis for expanding the application scope of SFN.

Metabolic diversity in a collection of wild and cultivated Brassica rapa subspecies

Brassica rapa (B. rapa) and its subspecies contain many bioactive metabolites that are important for plant defense and human health. This study aimed at investigating the metabolite composition and variation among a large collection of B. rapa genotypes, including subspecies and their accessions. Metabolite profiling of leaves of 102 B. rapa genotypes was performed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a photodiode array detector and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-PDA-QTOF-MS/MS). In total, 346 metabolites belonging to different chemical classes were tentatively identified; 36 out of them were assigned with high confidence using authentic standards and 184 were those reported in B. rapa leaves for the first time. The accumulation and variation of metabolites among genotypes were characterized and compared to their phylogenetic distance. We found 47 metabolites, mostly representing anthocyanins, flavonols, and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives that displayed a significant correlation to the phylogenetic relatedness and determined four major phylometabolic branches; 1) Chinese cabbage, 2) yellow sarson and rapid cycling, 3) the mizuna-komatsuna-turnip-caitai; and 4) a mixed cluster. These metabolites denote the selective pressure on the metabolic network during B. rapa breeding. We present a unique study that combines metabolite profiling data with phylogenetic analysis in a large collection of B. rapa subspecies. We showed how selective breeding utilizes the biochemical potential of wild B. rapa leading to highly diverse metabolic phenotypes. Our work provides the basis for further studies on B. rapa metabolism and nutritional traits improvement.

All Ion Fragmentation Analysis Enhances the Untargeted Profiling of Glucosinolates in Brassica Microgreens by Liquid Chromatography and High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry

An analytical approach based on reversed-phase liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization Fourier-transform mass spectrometry in negative ion mode (RPLC-ESI-(-)-FTMS) was developed for the untargeted characterization of glucosinolates (GSL) in the polar extracts of four Brassica microgreen crops, namely, garden cress, rapeseed, kale, and broccoli raab. Specifically, the all ion fragmentation (AIF) operation mode enabled by a quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometer, i.e., the systematic fragmentation of all ions generated in the electrospray source, followed by the acquisition of an FTMS spectrum, was exploited. First, the best qualifying product ions for GSL were recognized from higher-energy collisional dissociation (HCD)-FTMS² spectra of representative standard GSL. Extracted ion chromatograms (EIC) were subsequently obtained for those ions from RPLC-ESI(-)-AIF-FTMS data referred to microgreen extracts, by plotting the intensity of their signals as a function of retention time. The alignment of peaks detected in the EIC traces was finally exploited for the recognition of peaks potentially related to GSL, with the EIC obtained for the sulfate radical anion [SO₄]^•- (exact m/z 95.9523) providing the highest selectivity. Each putative GSL was subsequently characterized by HCD-FTMS² analyses and by collisionally induced dissociation (CID) multistage MSⁿ (n = 2, 3) acquisitions based on a linear ion trap mass spectrometer. As a result, up to 27 different GSLs were identified in the four Brassica microgreens. The general method described in this work appears as a promising approach for the study of GSL, known and novel, in plant extracts.

Plant derived antimicrobial peptides: Mechanism of target, isolation techniques, sources and pharmaceutical applications

Antimicrobial resistance is a global health and development threat which is caused by the excess and prolonged usage of antimicrobial compounds in agriculture and pharmaceutical industries. Resistance of pathogenic microorganisms to the already existing drugs represent a serious risk to public health. Plant sources such as cereals, legumes, fruits and vegetables are potential substrates for the isolation of antimicrobial peptides (AMP) with broad spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi and viruses with novel immunomodulatory activities. Thus, in the quest of new antimicrobial agents, AMPs have recently gained interest. Therefore, AMP can be used in agriculture, pharmaceutical and food industries. This review focuses on various explored and unexplored plant based food sources of AMPs, their isolation techniques and antimicrobial mechanism of peptides. Therefore, the literature discussed in this review paper will prove beneficial the research purposes for agriculture, pharmaceutical and food industries. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Isolation of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) can be done on industrial scale. AMP isolated from food sources can be used in pharmaceutical and agriculture industries. AMP from natural sources mitigate the problem of antimicrobial resistance. AMP isolated from food products can be used as nutraceutical.

Brassica Genus Seeds: A Review on Phytochemical Screening and Pharmacological Properties

Traditionally, Brassica species are widely used in traditional medicine, human food, and animal feed. Recently, special attention has been dedicated to Brassica seeds as source of health-promoting phytochemicals. This review provides a summary of recent research on the Brassica seed phytochemistry, bioactivity, dietary importance, and toxicity by screening the major online scientific database sources and papers published in recent decades by Elsevier, Springer, and John Wiley. The search was conducted covering the period from January 1964 to July 2022. Phytochemically, polyphenols, glucosinolates, and their degradation products were the predominant secondary metabolites in seeds. Different extracts and their purified constituents from seeds of Brassica species have been found to possess a wide range of biological properties including antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective activities. These valuable functional properties of Brassica seeds are related to their richness in active compounds responsible for the prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, cancer, and COVID-19. Currently, the potential properties of Brassica seeds and their components are the main focus of research, but their toxicity and health risks must also be accounted for.

Cruciferous vegetables as a treasure of functional foods bioactive compounds: Targeting p53 family in gastrointestinal tract and associated cancers

In the past few years, phytochemicals from natural products have gotten the boundless praise in treating cancer. The promising role of cruciferous vegetables and active components contained in these vegetables, such as isothiocyanates, indole-3-carbinol, and isothiocyanates, has been widely researched in experimental in vitro and in vivo carcinogenesis models. The chemopreventive agents produced from the cruciferous vegetables were recurrently proven to affect carcinogenesis throughout the onset and developmental phases of cancer formation. Likewise, findings from clinical investigations and epidemiological research supported this statement. The anticancer activities of these functional foods bioactive compounds are closely related to their ability to upregulate p53 and its related target genes, e.g., p21. As the “guardian of the genome,” the p53 family (p53, p63, and p73) plays a pivotal role in preventing the cancer progression associated with DNA damage. This review discusses the functional foods bioactive compounds derived from several cruciferous vegetables and their use in altering the tumor-suppressive effect of p53 proteins. The association between the mutation of p53 and the incidence of gastrointestinal malignancies (gastric, small intestine, colon, liver, and pancreatic cancers) is also discussed. This review contains crucial information about the use of cruciferous vegetables in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract malignancies.

Preventive effects of Brassicaceae family for colon cancer prevention: A focus on in vitro studies

The emergence of adverse effects and resistance to colorectal cancer (CRC) current therapies calls for the development of new strategies aimed at both preventing and treating. In this context, functional extracts from Brassicaceae family contains abundant bioactive compounds directly related to a positive effect on human health including cancer. The main objective of this systematic review is to compile all recent studies that analyzed the in vitro antiproliferative activity of functional extracts or isolated molecules from the Brassicaceae family against CRC. A total of 711 articles published between January 2011 and May 2021 were identified. Of them, 68 met our inclusion criteria. Different standardized protocols using variable parts of plants of the Brassicaceae family resulted in diverse bioactive extracts and/or compounds. Most of them were related to isothiocyanates, which showed significant antitumor activity against CRC. These in vitro studies provide an excellent guide to direct research on the applications of plants of the Brassicaceae family to the prevention of this type of tumor. The extracts and molecules with demonstrated activity against CRC should be tested in vivo and in clinical trials to determine their usefulness in the prevention of this cancer to reduce its global incidence.

Maximization of Sulforaphane Content in Broccoli Sprouts by Blanching

Broccoli sprouts are a recognized source of health-promoting compounds, such as glucosinolates, glucoraphanin, and sulforaphane (SFN). Maximization of SFN content can be achieved by technological processing. We investigated the effect of blanching conditions to determine the optimal treatment that maximizes sulforaphane content in broccoli sprouts. Broccoli seeds (cv. Traditional) grown under controlled conditions were harvested after 11 days from germination and subjected to different blanching conditions based on a central composite design with temperature and time as experimental factors. Results were analyzed by ANOVA followed by a Tukey test. The optimum conditions were identified through response surface methodology. Blanching increased sulforaphane content compared with untreated sprouts, agreeing with a decrease in total glucosinolates and glucoraphanin content. Temperature significantly affected SFN content. Higher temperatures and shorter immersion times favor glucoraphanin hydrolysis, thus increasing SFN content. The optimum conditions were blanching at 61 °C for 4.8 min, resulting in 54.3 ± 0.20 µmol SFN/g dry weight, representing a 3.3-fold increase with respect to untreated sprouts. This is the highest SFN content reported for sprouts subjected to any treatment so far. The process described in this work may contribute to developing functional foods and nutraceuticals that provide sulforaphane as an active principle.

Lobularia libyca: Phytochemical Profiling, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity Using In Vitro and In Silico Studies

Lobularia libyca (L. libyca) is a traditional plant that is popular for its richness in phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The aim of this study was to comprehensively investigate the phytochemical profile by liquid chromatography, electrospray ionization and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS), the mineral contents and the biological properties of L. libyca methanol extract. L. libyca contains significant amounts of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Thirteen compounds classified as flavonoids were identified. L. libyca is rich in nutrients such as Na, Fe and Ca. Moreover, the methanol extract of L. libyca showed significant antioxidant activity without cytotoxic activity on HCT116 cells (human colon cancer cell line) and HepG2 cells (human hepatoma), showing an inhibition zone of 13 mm in diameter. In silico studies showed that decanoic acid ethyl ester exhibited the best fit in β-lactamase and DNA gyrase active sites; meanwhile, oleic acid showed the best fit in reductase binding sites. Thus, it can be concluded that L. libyca can serve as a beneficial nutraceutical agent, owing to its significant antioxidant and antibacterial potential and due to its richness in iron, calcium and potassium, which are essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Cytochrome P450 3A2 and PGP-MDR1-Mediated Pharmacokinetic Interaction of Sinapic Acid with Ibrutinib in Rats: Potential Food/Herb–Drug Interaction

Ibrutinib (IBR) metabolism (primarily by CYP3A enzyme) is the main route of excretion for IBR, which could lead to drug–drug/herb–drug interactions with herbal medicines, nutritional supplements, and other foods. Sinapic acid (SA) is a bioactive phytonutrient that is used as a dietary supplement to treat a variety of illnesses. Pharmacokinetic interactions may occur when IBR interacts with SA, which influences the pharmacokinetic processes such as absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Therefore, it is obligatory to investigate the safety apprehensions of such parallel usage and to evaluate the possible impact of SA on the pharmacokinetics of IBR and propose a possible interaction mechanism in an animal model. The IBR concentration in plasma samples was determined using a validated UHPLC-MS/MS method after administration of a single oral dosage of IBR (50 mg/kg) in rats with or without SA pretreatment (40 mg/kg p.o. each day for 7 days, n = 6). The co-administration of IBR with SA displayed significant increases in Cmax ~18.77%, AUC0–T ~28.07%, MRT ~16.87%, and Kel ~24.76%, and a significant decrease in the volume of distribution Vz/F_obs ~37.66%, the rate of clearance (Cl/F) ~21.81%, and T½ ~20.43%, respectively, were observed as compared to rats that were administered IBR alone, which may result in increased bioavailability of IBR. The metabolism of IBR in the liver and intestines is significantly inhibited when SA is given, which may lead to an increase in the absorption rate of IBR. These findings need to be investigated further before they can be used in clinical practice.

Cruciferous Vegetables and Their Bioactive Metabolites: from Prevention to Novel Therapies of Colorectal Cancer

The Brassicaceae family, known as cruciferous vegetables, includes many economically important species, mainly edible oil plants, vegetable species, spice plants, and feed plants. Cruciferous vegetables are foods rich in nutritive composition and are also a good source of dietary fiber. Besides, cruciferous vegetables contain various bioactive chemicals known as glucosinolates and S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide, including sulphur-containing cancer-protective chemicals. Numerous studies have reported that daily intake of sulphurous vegetables helps prevent cancer formation and reduces cancer incidence, especially in colorectal cancer, through various mechanisms. The potential mechanisms of these compounds in preventing cancer in experimental studies are as follows: protecting cells against DNA damage, inactivating carcinogenic substances, showing antiviral and antibacterial effects, triggering apoptosis in cells with disrupted structure, inhibiting tumour cell migration causing metastasis and the development of tumour-feeding vessels (angiogenesis). These beneficial anticancer effects of cruciferous vegetables are generally associated with glucosinolates in their composition and some secondary metabolites, as well as other phenolic compounds, seed oils, and dietary fiber in the literature. This review aims to examine to the roles of cruciferous vegetables and their important bioactive metabolites in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer.

The effect of Brassica vegetables on blood glucose levels and lipid profiles in adults. A systematic review and meta-analysis

Previous studies on the effect of Brassica vegetables on blood glucose and lipid profile have reported inconclusive findings. Due to the high prevalence of glucose and lipid metabolism disorders and their importance as predictors of chronic diseases, the present meta-analysis was performed to clarify the effect of Brassica vegetables on blood glucose and lipid profile. A systematic search of the databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Cochran Library was performed up to October 2020. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the effect of Brassica vegetables on blood glucose and lipid profile were included in the study. The search results were limited to English-language publications. Finally, nine RCTs, including 548 participants, were selected for the present study. Pooled analysis indicated a significant reduction in total cholesterol (TC) (SMD = -0.28, 95%CI: 0.48 to 0.08; p = 0.005) following Brassica vegetables consumption. Overall, Brassica vegetables had no significant impact on serum levels of triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting blood sugar, and glycated hemoglobin. Consumption of Brassica vegetables had a statistically significant effect on TC concentration. However, further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of these plants.

Is Bitterness Only a Taste? The Expanding Area of Health Benefits of Brassica Vegetables and Potential for Bitter Taste Receptors to Support Health Benefits

The list of known health benefits from inclusion of brassica vegetables in the diet is long and growing. Once limited to cancer prevention, a role for brassica in prevention of oxidative stress and anti-inflammation has aided in our understanding that brassica provide far broader benefits. These include prevention and treatment of chronic diseases of aging such as diabetes, neurological deterioration, and heart disease. Although animal and cell culture studies are consistent, clinical studies often show too great a variation to confirm these benefits in humans. In this review, we discuss causes of variation in clinical studies, focusing on the impact of the wide variation across humans in commensal bacterial composition, which potentially result in variations in microbial metabolism of glucosinolates. In addition, as research into host-microbiome interactions develops, a role for bitter-tasting receptors, termed T2Rs, in the gastrointestinal tract and their role in entero-endocrine hormone regulation is developing. Here, we summarize the growing literature on mechanisms of health benefits by brassica-derived isothiocyanates and the potential for extra-oral T2Rs as a novel mechanism that may in part describe the variability in response to brassica among free-living humans, not seen in research animal and cell culture studies.

Isolation of the mustard Napin protein Allergen Sin a 1 and characterisation of its antifungal activity

Proteins and peptides belonging to the plant immune system can possess natural antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Due to their broad range of activity and stability, they represent promising novel alternatives to commonly used antifungal agents to fight the emergence of resistant strains. An isolation protocol was optimised to target proteins found in plants’ defence system, and it was applied to white mustard (Brassica hirta) seeds. Firstly, a ∼14 kDa protein with activity against S. cerevisiae was extracted and purified; secondly, the protein was identified as the mustard Napin protein named Allergen Sin a 1. Napin is the name given to seed storage (2S) albumin proteins belonging to the Brassicaceae family. While several Napins have been described for their antimicrobial potential, Sin a 1 has been mainly studied for its allergenic properties. The antimicrobial activity of Sin a 1 is described and characterised for the first time in this study; it possesses antifungal and antiyeast in vitro activity, but no antibacterial activity was recorded. The yeasts Zygosaccharomyces bailii Sa 1403 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae DSM 70449 along with the filamentous fungi Fusarium culmorum FST 4.05 were amongst the most senstitive strains to Sin a 1 (MICs range 3–6 μM). The antimicrobial mechanism of membrane permeabilisation was detected, and in general, the antifungal activity of Sin a 1 seemed to be expressed in a dose-dependent manner. Data collected confirmed Sin a 1 to be a stable and compact protein, as it displayed resistance to α-chymotrypsin digestion, heat denaturation and insensitivity to pH variations and the presence of salts. In addition, the protein did not show cytotoxicity towards mammalian cells.

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Simple purification of an antiyeast protein from white mustard seeds.

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Identification of the protein as the mustard Napin also classified as Allergen Sin a 1.

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Description of Sin a 1 antimicrobial spectrum and mode of actions against yeasts.

Hydrothermal Treatment Effect on Antioxidant Activity and Polyphenols Concentration and Profile of Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) in an In Vitro Simulated Gastrointestinal Digestion Model

Brussels sprouts are a source of polyphenolic compounds. However, their concentration is affected by many factors depending on the plant material, hydrothermal treatment methods and digestion in the gastrointestinal tract. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of hydrothermal treatment on the antioxidant activity, concentration and profile of polyphenols of Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera in an in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion model. The study showed a significant effect of the type of hydrothermal treatment on total polyphenol concentration, polyphenolic acid profile, flavonoid content and antioxidant activity. Traditional boiling in water was the least effective type of hydrothermal treatment with respect to bioactive components of Brussels sprouts. Sous-vide was the most effective hydrothermal treatment in terms of retention of polyphenolic compounds and high antioxidant activity, thus providing a better alternative to steam cooking. Using an in vitro model, a significant difference was demonstrated between the concentration of bioavailable polyphenolic compounds and the polyphenol content of the plant material before digestion. The influence of the type of hydrothermal treatment used on the concentration of bioavailable polyphenolic compounds was maintained in relation to material not subjected to in vitro digestion (except for antioxidant activity).

Angioprevention of Urologic Cancers by Plant-Derived Foods

The number of cancer cases worldwide keeps growing unstoppably, despite the undeniable advances achieved by basic research and clinical practice. Urologic tumors, including some as prevalent as prostate, bladder or kidney tumors, are no exceptions to this rule. Moreover, the fact that many of these tumors are detected in early stages lengthens the duration of their treatment, with a significant increase in health care costs. In this scenario, prevention offers the most cost-effective long-term strategy for the global control of these diseases. Although specialized diets are not the only way to decrease the chances to develop cancer, epidemiological evidence support the role of certain plant-derived foods in the prevention of urologic cancer. In many cases, these plants are rich in antiangiogenic phytochemicals, which could be responsible for their protective or angiopreventive properties. Angiogenesis inhibition may contribute to slow down the progression of the tumor at very different stages and, for this reason, angiopreventive strategies could be implemented at different levels of chemoprevention, depending on the targeted population. In this review, epidemiological evidence supporting the role of certain plant-derived foods in urologic cancer prevention are presented, with particular emphasis on their content in bioactive phytochemicals that could be used in the angioprevention of cancer.

The Role of Glucosinolates from Cruciferous Vegetables (Brassicaceae) in Gastrointestinal Cancers: From Prevention to Therapeutics

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is composed of rapidly renewing cells, which increase the likelihood of cancer. Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed GI cancers and currently stands in second place regarding cancer-related mortality. Unfortunately, the treatment of GI is limited, and few developments have occurred in the field over the years. With this in mind, new therapeutic strategies involving biologically active phytocompounds are being evaluated as anti-cancer agents. Vegetables such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and radish, all belonging to the Brassicaceae family, are high in dietary fibre, minerals, vitamins, carotenoids, polyphenols, and glucosinolates. The latter compound is a secondary metabolite characteristic of this family and, when biologically active, has demonstrated anti-cancer properties. This article reviews the literature regarding the potential of Cruciferous vegetables in the prevention and/or treatment of GI cancers and the relevance of appropriate compound formulations for improving the stability and bioaccessibility of the major Cruciferous compounds, with a particular focus on glucosinolates.

Dietary Organosulfur-Containing Compounds and Their Health-Promotion Mechanisms

Dietary organosulfur-containing compounds (DOSCs) in fruits, vegetables, and edible mushrooms may hold the key to the health-promotion benefits of these foods. Yet their action mechanisms are not clear, partially due to their high reactivity, which leads to the formation of complex compounds during postharvest processing. Among postharvest processing methods, thermal treatment is the most common way to process these edible plants rich in DOSCs, which undergo complex degradation pathways with the generation of numerous derivatives over a short time. At low temperatures, DOSCs are biotransformed slowly during fermentation to different metabolites (e.g., thiols, sulfides, peptides), whose distinctive biological activity remains largely unexplored. In this review, we discuss the bioavailability of DOSCs in human digestion before illustrating their potential mechanisms for health promotion related to cardiovascular health, cancer chemoprevention, and anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. In particular, it is interesting that different DOSCs react with glutathione or cysteine, leading to the slow release of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which has broad bioactivity in chronic disease prevention. In addition, DOSCs may interact with protein thiol groups of different protein targets of importance related to inflammation and phase II enzyme upregulation, among other action pathways critical for health promotion.

Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Food Science and Technology, Volume 13 is March 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.

Effect of a Sub-Chronic Oral Exposure of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. Var. Italica) By-Products Flour on the Physiological Parameters of FVB/N Mice: A Pilot Study

Brassica by-products are a source of natural bioactive molecules such as glucosinolates and isothiocyanates, with potential applications in the nutraceutical and functional food industries. However, the effects of oral sub-chronic exposure to broccoli by-product flour (BF) have not yet been evaluated. The objective of this pilot study was to analyse the effects of BF intake in the physiological parameters of FVB/N mice fed a 6.7% BF-supplemented diet for 21 days. Glucosinolates and their derivatives were also quantified in plasma and urine. BF supplementation significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the accumulation of perirenal adipose tissue. Furthermore, mice supplemented with BF showed significantly lower (p < 0.01) microhematocrit values than control animals, but no impact on the general genotoxicological status nor relevant toxic effects on the liver and kidney were observed. Concerning hepatic and renal antioxidant response, BF supplementation induced a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the liver glutathione S-transferase (GST) levels. In BF-supplemented mice, plasma analysis revealed the presence of the glucosinolates glucobrassicin and glucoerucin, and the isothiocyanates sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol. Overall, these results show that daily intake of a high dose of BF during three weeks is safe, and enables the bioavailability of beneficial glucosinolates and isothiocyanates. These results allow further testing of the benefits of this BF in animal models of disease, knowing that exposure of up to 6.7% BF does not present relevant toxicity.

Glucosinolates From Cruciferous Vegetables and Their Potential Role in Chronic Disease: Investigating the Preclinical and Clinical Evidence

An increasing body of evidence highlights the strong potential for a diet rich in fruit and vegetables to delay, and often prevent, the onset of chronic diseases, including cardiometabolic, neurological, and musculoskeletal conditions, and certain cancers. A possible protective component, glucosinolates, which are phytochemicals found almost exclusively in cruciferous vegetables, have been identified from preclinical and clinical studies. Current research suggests that glucosinolates (and isothiocyanates) act via several mechanisms, ultimately exhibiting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and chemo-protective effects. This review summarizes the current knowledge surrounding cruciferous vegetables and their glucosinolates in relation to the specified health conditions. Although there is evidence that consumption of a high glucosinolate diet is linked with reduced incidence of chronic diseases, future large-scale placebo-controlled human trials including standardized glucosinolate supplements are needed.

Effects of humate and neodymium on phytochemical levels in kale at different ontogenetic stages

The increased global mortality caused by the rise in chronic diseases can be reduced by the consumption of antioxidant-rich foods. Leafy green kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica) has high nutritional value due to its high antioxidant content and its consumption is highly correlated with a reduced risk of developing some chronic diseases. The paper focuses on examining the effects of two different mineral nutrients – neodymium and potassium humate – on the accumulation of flavonoids, vitamin C, phenolic compounds, carotenoids and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in field-grown leafy green kale. Leaves from treated plants were collected at three stages of maturity –14 weeks, 18 weeks, and 22 weeks and subjected to spectrophotometric analysis. The results showed that the stimulatory effect of both mineral nutrients on the phytochemicals varied at the different growth stages - the highest significant effect of neodymium has been mostly observed at week 18 with high flavonoid, vitamin C, and carotenoid levels. Phenolic compounds for this variant are the same as in the control samples, while the level of malondialdehyde was reduced by 21.8%, signifying increased antioxidant activity. The rare earth element primarily maintained some phytochemical content at weeks 14 and 22. Following soil treatment with potassium humate, the levels of studied phytochemical compounds were either maintained or elevated at weeks 14, 18, and 22. Humic acid exerted the greatest decrease in malondialdehyde content in kale at week 14, indicating a reduction in the lipid peroxidation process in leaves. Accordingly, the harvest date of leafy green kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica) should depend on the type of mineral nutrient applied. The obtained results provide information that may be relevant to the production of functional varieties and enhance the nutritional and possibly the economic value of kale.

Current Methods for the Extraction and Analysis of Isothiocyanates and Indoles in Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables are characterized by the presence of sulfur-containing secondary plant metabolites known as glucosinolates (GLS). The consumption of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, rocket salad, and cauliflower has been related to the prevention of non-communicable diseases. Their beneficial effects are attributed to the enzymatic degradation products of GLS, e.g., isothiocyanates and indoles. Owing to these properties, there has been a shift in the last few years towards the research of these compounds and a wide range of methods for their extraction and analytical determination have been developed. The aim of this review is to present the sample preparation and extraction procedures of isothiocyanates and indoles from cruciferous vegetables and the analytical methods for their determination. The majority of the references that have been reviewed are from the last decade. Although efforts towards the application of eco-friendly non-conventional extraction methods have been made, the use of conventional solvent extraction is mainly applied. The major analytical techniques employed for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of isothiocyanates and indoles are high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography coupled with or without mass spectrometry detection. Nevertheless, the analytical determination of isothiocyanates presents several problems due to their instability and the absence of chromophores, making the simultaneous determination of isothiocyanates and indoles a challenging task.

Phytochemical Constituents, Antioxidant Activity, and Toxicity Assessment of the Aerial Part Extracts from the Infraspecific Taxa of Matthiola fruticulosa (Brassicaceae) Endemic to Sicily

In a project designed to investigate the specific and infraspecific taxa of Matthiola endemic to Sicily (Italy) as new potential sources of bioactive compounds in this work, the infraspecific taxa of Matthiola fruticulosa were studied, namely, subsp. fruticulosa and subsp. coronopifolia. HPLC–PDA/ESI–MS and SPME–GC/MS analyses of hydroalcoholic extracts obtained from the aerial parts of the two subspecies led to the detection of 51 phenolics and 61 volatile components, highlighting a quite different qualitative–quantitative profile. The antioxidant properties of the extracts were explored through in vitro methods: 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), reducing power and Fe²⁺ chelating activity assays. The results of the antioxidant tests showed that the extracts possess a different antioxidant ability: particularly, the extract of M. fruticulosa subsp. fruticulosa exhibited higher radical scavenging activity than that of subsp. coronopifolia (IC₅₀ = 1.25 ± 0.02 mg/mL and 2.86 ± 0.05 mg/mL), which in turn displayed better chelating properties (IC₅₀ = 1.49 ± 0.01 mg/mL and 0.63 ± 0.01 mg/mL). Lastly, Artemia salina lethality bioassay was performed for toxicity assessment. The results of the bioassay showed lack of toxicity against brine shrimp larvae for both extracts. The data presented indicate the infraspecific taxa of M. fruticulosa as new and safe sources of antioxidant compounds.

Optimization of an Extraction Process to Obtain a Food-Grade Sulforaphane-Rich Extract from Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica)

Sulforaphane (SFN) is a powerful health-promoting compound found in broccoli in the form of its inactive precursor, glucoraphanin (GFN). SFN formation occurs through the enzymatic hydrolysis of glucoraphanin by myrosinase under specific chemical conditions. Its incorporation in food formulations has been hindered by the thermal instability of SFN and low concentration in Brassicaceae. Then, extracting SFN from broccoli at a temperature below 40 °C appears as an option to recover and stabilize SFN, aiming at delivering it as a nutraceutical. We studied an eco-friendly extraction process to obtain an SFN-rich extract from broccoli. The effect of the broccoli mass/solvent ratio, ethanol concentration in the extractant solution, and extraction time on the recovery of SFN, GFN, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity were studied through a Box–Behnken design. The regression models explained more than 70% of the variability in the responses, adequately representing the system. The experimental factors differently affected the bioactive compound recovery and antioxidant activity of the extracts. The extraction conditions that allowed the highest recovery of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity were identified and experimentally validated. The results may provide the basis for the design of a process to produce a sulforaphane-rich food supplement or nutraceutical by using a GRAS extractant.