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AlMadalli HJ, Abdul Rasool BK, Shehab NG, Sala FD, Borzacchiello A. Pomegranate extract-loaded sphingosomes for the treatment of cancer: Phytochemical investigations, formulation, and antitumor activity evaluation. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0293115. [PMID: 38346085 PMCID: PMC10861072 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM Formulation of Pomegranate Extracts (PE)-loaded sphingosomes as an antitumor therapy for the intravenous and passive targeted delivery to various tumor types, especially that of the breast, colon, and uterus; to increase the therapeutic activity and decrease the adverse effects profile. METHODS The pericarp and seeds' juice of Punica granatum were each extracted using D.W. and ethanol. Phytochemical investigation of all extracts was carried out including total phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins contents, the antioxidant activity, as well as HPLC analysis of phenolics and flavonoids. The antitumor potential of all extracts was also tested utilizing three cell lines: MCF-7, HeLa, and HCT116. The candidate extract was chosen for the formulation phase and was entrapped into the sphingosomes using the thin-film hydration method and employing three different PE: lipids weight ratios. The synthesized formulations were characterized for their size, morphological features, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro drug release and kinetics modeling studies. The optimized formula was further analyzed by FTIR spectroscopy and electron microscopy. The antitumor activity of F2 was also investigated using the same cancer cell lines compared to the plant extract. RESULTS The highest phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins contents were observed in the ethanolic pericarps extract (EPE), followed by the ethanolic seeds extract (ESE). Consequently, EPE showed a higher antitumor activity hence it was selected for the formulation phase. PE-loaded sphingosomes formula (F2) was selected for having the highest EE% (71.64%), and a sustained release profile with the highest in vitro release (42.5±9.44%). By employing the DDSolver, the Weibull model was found the most suitable to describe the PE release kinetics compared to other models. The release mechanism was found to follow Fickian diffusion. Simulated pharmacokinetic parameters have portrayed F2 as the candidate formula, with the highest AUC (536.095) and slowest MDT (0.642 h). In addition, F2 exhibited a significant (p>0.05) stronger and prolonged anticancer effect against MCF-7, HeLa, and HCT116 cell lines at all concentrations tested compared to the free extract. CONCLUSION The results proved that sphingosomes are an effective delivery system, improving pharmacological efficacy and reducing serious side effects of anticancer medications and natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huda Jamal AlMadalli
- Pharmaceutical Product Development, Dubai Pharmacy College for Girls, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Naglaa Gamil Shehab
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapeutics, Dubai Pharmacy College, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Francesca Della Sala
- Institute of Polymers, Composite, and Biomaterials (IPCB), National Research Council of Italy, Naples, Italy
| | - Assunta Borzacchiello
- Institute of Polymers, Composite, and Biomaterials (IPCB), National Research Council of Italy, Naples, Italy
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Azmat F, Safdar M, Ahmad H, Khan MRJ, Abid J, Naseer MS, Aggarwal S, Imran A, Khalid U, Zahra SM, Islam F, Cheema SA, Shehzadi U, Ali R, Kinki AB, Ali YA, Suleria HAR. Phytochemical profile, nutritional composition of pomegranate peel and peel extract as a potential source of nutraceutical: A comprehensive review. Food Sci Nutr 2024; 12:661-674. [PMID: 38370077 PMCID: PMC10867480 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The current study focuses on Punica granatum L. (pomegranate) peel and peel extract and their use as functional foods, food additives, or physiologically active constituents in nutraceutical formulations. The pomegranate peel extract is a good source of bioactive substances needed for the biological activity of the fruit, including phenolic acids, minerals, flavonoids (anthocyanins), and hydrolyzable tannins (gallic acid). The macromolecules found in pomegranate peel and peel extract have been recommended as substitutes for synthetic nutraceuticals, food additives, and chemo-preventive agents because of their well-known ethno-medical significance and chemical properties. Moreover, considering the promises for both their health-promoting activities and chemical properties, the dietary and nutraceutical significance of pomegranate peel and pomegranate peel extract appears to be underestimated. The present review article details their nutritional composition, phytochemical profile, food applications, nutraceutical action, and health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiza Azmat
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Environmental DesignAllama Iqbal Open UniversityIslamabadPakistan
| | - Mahpara Safdar
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Environmental DesignAllama Iqbal Open UniversityIslamabadPakistan
| | - Hajra Ahmad
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Environmental DesignAllama Iqbal Open UniversityIslamabadPakistan
| | | | - Junaid Abid
- Department of Food Science and TechnologyUniversity of HaripurHaripurPakistan
| | | | - Saurabh Aggarwal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering Uttaranchal Institute of TechnologyUttaranchal UniversityDehradunIndia
| | - Ali Imran
- Department of Food SciencesGovernment College UniversityFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Urma Khalid
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Environmental DesignAllama Iqbal Open UniversityIslamabadPakistan
| | - Syeda Mahvish Zahra
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Environmental DesignAllama Iqbal Open UniversityIslamabadPakistan
- Institute of Food Science and NutritionUniversity of SargodhaSargodhaPakistan
| | - Fakhar Islam
- Department of Clinical NutritionNUR International UniversityLahorePakistan
- Department of Food SciencesGovernment College UniversityFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Sadia Arif Cheema
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Environmental DesignAllama Iqbal Open UniversityIslamabadPakistan
| | - Umber Shehzadi
- Department of Food SciencesGovernment College UniversityFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Rehman Ali
- Department of Food SciencesGovernment College UniversityFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Abdela Befa Kinki
- Food Science and NutritionEthiopian Institute of Agricultural ResearchAddis AbabaEthiopia
| | - Yuosra Amer Ali
- Department of Food Sciences, College of Agriculture and ForestryUniversity of MosulMosulIraq
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Pierdomenico M, Riccioni C, Benassi B. Anti-inflammatory effect of a pomegranate extract on LPS-stimulated HepG2 cells. Nat Prod Res 2024; 38:727-734. [PMID: 37029619 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2023.2196622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Pomegranate is an important source of bioactive molecules with proven beneficial effects on human health. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential anti-inflammatory effect of a pomegranate extract (PE), obtained from the whole fruit and previously characterized by Reversed Phase-Ultra High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (RP-UHPLC-HRMS), on HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cells challenged with the lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In LPS-treated cells (1 µg/ml, 24h), the PE treatment (administered at the non-cytotoxic dose of 1 µg/ml, 24h) induced a significant reduction of three key pro-inflammatory cytokines, i.e. interleukin-8 (IL-8), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), at both gene expression (as assayed by real-time PCR) and secretion levels (by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay, ELISA). Although further in vivo studies are needed to prove its efficacy, this preliminary in vitro study suggests that the PE might be useful for ameliorating liver inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pierdomenico
- Division of Health Protection Technologies, ENEA-Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Barbara Benassi
- Division of Health Protection Technologies, ENEA-Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Rome, Italy
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Verma J, Mishra R, Mazumdar A, Singh R, El-Gendy NS. Development and Evaluation of an Eco-Friendly Hand Sanitizer Formulation Valorized from Fruit Peels. Int J Biomater 2023; 2023:2516233. [PMID: 38188698 PMCID: PMC10771336 DOI: 10.1155/2023/2516233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hand sanitizer usage has proven to be a common and practical method for reducing the spread of infectious diseases which can be caused by many harmful pathogens. There is a need for alcohol-free hand sanitizers because most hand sanitizers on the market are alcohol-based, and regular use of them can damage the skin and can be hazardous. India is the world's largest producer of fruits and one of the major problems after fruit consumption is their peels, causing waste management problems and contributing to the formation of greenhouse gases leading to air pollution and adding to the problem of climate change. Valorization of such wastes into other value-added products and their incorporation into formulations of eco-friendly alcohol-free hand sanitizers would solve these issues, save the environment, benefit the society, and help in achieving the sustainable development goals. Thus, this research focuses on formulating an effective natural alcohol-free hand sanitizer that harnesses the antimicrobial properties of the various types of bioactive components found in fruit peels of pomegranate, sweet lime, and lemon. The peel extracts and the formulated sanitizer proved considerable antimicrobial activity against the pathogenic Escherichia coli and hand microflora. Molecular docking was also applied to examine ligand-protein interaction patterns and predict binding conformers and affinity of the sanitizer phytocompounds towards target proteins in COVID-19, influenza, and pneumonia viruses. The binding affinities and the protein-ligand interactions virtual studies revealed that the sanitizer phytocompounds bind with the amino acids in the target proteins' active sites via hydrogen bonding interactions. As a result, it is possible to formulate a natural, alcohol-free hand sanitizer from fruit peels that is effective against pathogenic germs and viruses using the basic structure of these potential findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Verma
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (NIET), Plot No. 19, Knowledge Park II, Institutional Area, Greater Noida, UP-201306, India
| | - R. Mishra
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology (NIET), Plot No. 19, Knowledge Park II, Institutional Area, Greater Noida, UP-201306, India
| | - A. Mazumdar
- Noida Institute of Engineering and Technology, Pharmacy Institute, Plot No. 19, Knowledge Park II, Institutional Area, Greater Noida, UP-201306, India
| | - R. Singh
- Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144001, India
| | - N. Sh. El-Gendy
- Egyptian Petroleum Research Institute (EPRI), Nasr City, Cairo, P.O. 11727, Egypt
- Center of Excellence, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), 6th of October City, Giza, P.O. 12566, Egypt
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Chathalingath N, Gunasekar A. Elucidating the physiological and molecular characteristics of bacterial blight incitant Xanthomonas auxonopodis pv. punicae; a life threatening phytopathogen of pomegranate (Punica granatum. L) and assessment of H 2O 2 accumulation during host-pathogen interaction. Microb Pathog 2023; 182:106277. [PMID: 37517744 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial blight of pomegranate caused by Xanthomonas auxonopodis pv.punicae (Xap) threaten the existence of a group of farmers for the past few decades who rely on pomegranate cultivation for their livelihood since it will cause huge yield loss. The primary focus of this study was to conduct a thorough analysis of the characterization of this blight incitant Xap. Physiological, biochemical, and molecular characteristics of six phytopathogenic strains of Xap, designated as PBF1 (PBF: Pomegranate Blight Fruit), PBF2, PBF3, PBF4, PBF5, and PBF6, isolated from the infected fruits were examined. Bacterial colonies were featured as gram-negative, yellow-pigmented circular with a glistening appearance. An attempt to determine the best culture medium, favouring bacterial proliferation was successfully done with four distinct medium, Nutrient Glucose Agar (NGA), Nutrient sucrose Agar (NSA), Yeast Dextrose Calcium Carbonate Agar (YDCA) and Yeast Glucose Calcium Carbonate Agar (YGCA) and comparatively, significant growth was found in NGA (66.66%) followed by YDCA (33%). According to the antibiotic susceptibility results, both ampicillin and streptomycin were determined as potentially effective drugs in preventing the proliferation of Xap (P 0.05). The reactive oxygen species-mediated plant immune response during host-pathogen interaction was confirmed by accessing the presence of H2O2 accumulation in infected leaves via 3,3 - diaminobenzidine (DAB) -staining technique. Bacterial isolates from this study were confirmed by two universal constitutive genes such as gyrB and 16S rRNA. From the BLAST analysis, the isolates were identified as Xap with base pair lengths of 1408bp, 1180bp, and 1159bp, which correspond to PBF1, PBF2, and PBF3, respectively. A neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree study explaining a strong phylogenetic relationship between the query sequence and closely related bacterial species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayana Chathalingath
- PG and Research Department of Biotechnology, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, 641029, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anbarasi Gunasekar
- PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, Department of Biotechnology, Coimbatore, 641004, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Mincuzzi A, Picciotti U, Sanzani SM, Garganese F, Palou L, Addante R, Ragni M, Ippolito A. Postharvest Diseases of Pomegranate: Alternative Control Means and a Spiderweb Effect. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:808. [PMID: 37623578 PMCID: PMC10456121 DOI: 10.3390/jof9080808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The pomegranate is a fruit known since ancient times for its beneficial properties. It has recently aroused great interest in the industry and among consumers, leading to a significant increase in demand. Consequently, its cultivation has been boosted all over the world. The pomegranate crop suffers considerable yield losses, especially at the postharvest stage, because it is a "minor crop" with few permitted control means. To control latent (Alternaria spp., Botrytis spp., Coniella spp., Colletotrichum spp., and Cytospora spp.) and wound (Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., and Talaromyces spp.) fungal pathogens, different alternative compounds, previously evaluated in vitro, were tested in the field on pomegranate cv. Wonderful. A chitosan solution, a plant protein hydrolysate, and a red seaweed extract were compared with a chemical control treatment, all as preharvest (field application) and postharvest treatments and their combinations. At the end of the storage period, the incidence of stamen infections and external and internal rots, and the severity of internal decay were evaluated. Obtained data revealed that pre- and postharvest application of all substances reduced the epiphytic population on stamens. Preharvest applications of seaweed extract and plant hydrolysate were the most effective treatments to reduce the severity of internal pomegranate decays. Furthermore, the influence of spider (Cheiracanthium mildei) cocoons on the fruit calyx as a possible barrier against postharvest fungal pathogens was assessed in a 'Mollar de Elche' pomegranate organic orchard. Compared to no-cocoon fruit (control), the incidence of infected stamens and internal molds in those with spiderwebs was reduced by about 30%, and the mean severity of internal rots was halved. Spiderwebs analyzed via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) disclosed a layered, unordered structure that did not allow for the passage of fungal spores due to its mean mesh size (1 to 20 µm ca). The aims of this research were (i) to evaluate alternative compounds useful to control postharvest pomegranate decays and (ii) to evaluate the effectiveness of spiders in reducing postharvest fungal infections by analyzing related mechanisms of action. Alternative control means proposed in the present work and calyx spider colonization may be helpful to reduce postharvest pomegranate diseases, yield losses, and waste production in an integrated control strategy, satisfying organic agriculture and the planned goals of Zero Hunger Challenge launched by the United Nations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Mincuzzi
- Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126 Bari, Italy; (U.P.); (S.M.S.); (F.G.); (R.A.); (M.R.); (A.I.)
| | - Ugo Picciotti
- Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126 Bari, Italy; (U.P.); (S.M.S.); (F.G.); (R.A.); (M.R.); (A.I.)
- Department of Marine Science and Applied Biology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
| | - Simona Marianna Sanzani
- Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126 Bari, Italy; (U.P.); (S.M.S.); (F.G.); (R.A.); (M.R.); (A.I.)
| | - Francesca Garganese
- Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126 Bari, Italy; (U.P.); (S.M.S.); (F.G.); (R.A.); (M.R.); (A.I.)
| | - Lluís Palou
- Pathology Laboratory, Postharvest Technology Center (CTP), Valencian Institute of Agrarian Research (IVIA), CV-315, Km 10.7, Montcada, 46113 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Rocco Addante
- Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126 Bari, Italy; (U.P.); (S.M.S.); (F.G.); (R.A.); (M.R.); (A.I.)
| | - Marco Ragni
- Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126 Bari, Italy; (U.P.); (S.M.S.); (F.G.); (R.A.); (M.R.); (A.I.)
| | - Antonio Ippolito
- Department of Soil, Plant, and Food Sciences, University of Bari Bari Aldo Moro, Via Amendola 165/A, 70126 Bari, Italy; (U.P.); (S.M.S.); (F.G.); (R.A.); (M.R.); (A.I.)
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Cicero AFG, Fogacci F, Stoian AP, Toth PP. Red Yeast Rice for the Improvement of Lipid Profiles in Mild-to-Moderate Hypercholesterolemia: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15102288. [PMID: 37242171 DOI: 10.3390/nu15102288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels is a key target for lowering cardiovascular risk and preventing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Red yeast rice (RYR) is a nutraceutical widely used as a lipid-lowering dietary supplement. The main cholesterol-lowering components of RYR are monacolins, particularly monacolin K, which is structurally identical to lovastatin and targets the same key enzyme of cholesterol biosynthesis. RYR supplementation reduces LDL-C levels by approximately 15-34% versus placebo, with a similar effect to low-dose, first-generation statins in subjects with mild-to-moderate dyslipidemia. RYR has also demonstrated beneficial reductions of up to 45% versus placebo in the risk of ASCVD events in secondary prevention studies. RYR at a dose that provides about 3 mg/d of monacolin K is well tolerated, with an adverse event profile similar to that of low-dose statins. RYR is therefore a treatment option for lowering LDL-C levels and ASCVD risk for people with mild-to-moderate hypercholesterolemia who are ineligible for statin therapy, particularly those who are unable to implement lifestyle modifications, and also for people who are eligible for statin therapy but who are unwilling to take a pharmacologic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arrigo F G Cicero
- Center for the Study of Hypertension and Related Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Medical and Surgery Sciences Department (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS AOU S. Orsola di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Federica Fogacci
- Center for the Study of Hypertension and Related Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Medical and Surgery Sciences Department (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery Sciences, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Anca Pantea Stoian
- Department of Diabetes, Faculty of Medicine, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Peter P Toth
- CGH Medical Center, Sterling, IL 61081, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Pantiora PD, Balaouras AI, Mina IK, Freris CI, Pappas AC, Danezis GP, Zoidis E, Georgiou CA. The Therapeutic Alliance between Pomegranate and Health Emphasizing on Anticancer Properties. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12010187. [PMID: 36671048 PMCID: PMC9855163 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12010187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pomegranate is a fruit bearing-plant that is well known for its medicinal properties. Pomegranate is a good source of phenolic acids, tannins, and flavonoids. Pomegranate juice and by-products have attracted the scientific interest due to their potential health benefits. Currently, the medical community has showed great interest in exploiting pomegranate potential as a protective agent against several human diseases including cancer. This is demonstrated by the fact that there are more than 800 reports in the literature reporting pomegranate's anticancer properties. This review is an update on the research outcomes of pomegranate's potential against different types of human diseases, emphasizing on cancer. In addition, perspectives of potential applications of pomegranate, as a natural additive aiming to improve the quality of animal products, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota D. Pantiora
- Department of Biotechnology, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Ioanna K. Mina
- Department of Biotechnology, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece
| | - Christoforos I. Freris
- Department of Chemistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15784 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios C. Pappas
- Laboratory of Nutritional Physiology and Feeding, Department of Animal Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: (A.C.P.); (E.Z.); Tel.: +30-210-529-4437 (A.C.P.); +30-210-529-4415 (E.Z.)
| | - Georgios P. Danezis
- Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Zoidis
- Laboratory of Nutritional Physiology and Feeding, Department of Animal Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: (A.C.P.); (E.Z.); Tel.: +30-210-529-4437 (A.C.P.); +30-210-529-4415 (E.Z.)
| | - Constantinos A. Georgiou
- Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Agricultural University of Athens, 11855 Athens, Greece
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Liu Q, Guo X, Du J, Guo Y, Guo X, Kou L. Comparative analysis of husk microstructure, fruit quality and concentrations of bioactive compounds of different pomegranate cultivars during low temperature storage. FOOD BIOSCI 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2023.102400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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10
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Yousof Ali M, Zaib S, Jannat S, Khan I. Discovery of potent and selective dual cholinesterases and β-secretase inhibitors in pomegranate as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Bioorg Chem 2022; 129:106137. [PMID: 36108590 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2022.106137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) extract has been reported to inhibit cholinesterase and the β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1); however, most of its constituents' potential inhibition of these enzymes remains unknown. Thus, we investigated the anti-Alzheimer's disease (anti-AD) potential of 16 ellagitannin and gallotannin, and nine anthocyanin derivatives' inhibition of BACE1, AChE, and BChE, and gallagic acid inhibited both the best. Further, a kinetic study identified different modes of inhibition, and a molecular docking simulation revealed that active compounds inhibited these three enzymes with low binding energy through hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions in the active site cavities. Gallagic acid and castalagin decreased Aβ peptides secretion from neuroblastoma cells that overexpressed human β-amyloid precursor protein significantly by 10 μM. Further, treatment with gallagic acid and castalagin reduced BACE1 and APPsβ expression levels significantly without affecting amyloid precursor protein (APP) levels in the amyloidogenic pathway. Co-incubation of Aβ42 with gallagic acid reduced Aβ42-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production significantly. Our results suggest that pomegranate constituents, specifically gallagic acid, may be useful in developing therapeutic treatment modalities for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Yousof Ali
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.
| | - Sumera Zaib
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Susoma Jannat
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, T2N 1N4 Alberta, Canada
| | - Imtiaz Khan
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, 131 Princess Street, Manchester M1 7DN, United Kingdom
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De Boni A, D’amico A, Acciani C, Roma R. Crop Diversification and Resilience of Drought-Resistant Species in Semi-Arid Areas: An Economic and Environmental Analysis. Sustainability 2022; 14:9552. [DOI: 10.3390/su14159552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Specialization and intensification in agriculture have increased productivity but have also led to the spread of monocultural systems, simplifying production but reducing genetic diversity. The purpose of this study was to propose crop diversification as a tool to increase biodiversity and achieve sustainable and resilient intensive agriculture, particularly in areas with water scarcity. In this paper, a combined life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle costing (LCC) applied to evaluate the environmental and economic sustainability of a differentiated system of cultivation were (pomegranates, almonds and olives), according to modern intensive and super-intensive cropping systems. Based on the results obtained, it is deduced that pomegranate cultivation generated the highest environmental load, followed by almonds and olives. From the financial analysis, it emerged that almond farming is the most profitable, followed by pomegranate and olive farming.
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El-Beltagi HS, Eshak NS, Mohamed HI, Bendary ESA, Danial AW. Physical Characteristics, Mineral Content, and Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Punica granatum or Citrus sinensis Peel Extracts and Their Applications to Improve Cake Quality. Plants 2022; 11:plants11131740. [PMID: 35807697 PMCID: PMC9268770 DOI: 10.3390/plants11131740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
One-third of all food produced for human use is discarded as waste, resulting in environmental pollution and impaired food security. Fruit peels have bioactive compounds that may be used as antimicrobials and antioxidants, and the use of fruit peels is considered an alternative way to reduce environmental problems and agro-industrial waste. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical, mineral, extraction yield, total phenolic, total flavonoids, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity of several peel fruits, including Citrus sinensis (orange) and Punica granatum (pomegranate). The results revealed that pomegranate peel powder contains the highest amounts of ash, fiber, total carbohydrates, Ca, Fe, Mg, and Cu, while orange peel contains the highest amounts of moisture, protein, crude fat, P, and K. Furthermore, the aqueous and methanolic pomegranate peel extracts yielded higher total phenolic and total flavonoids than the orange peel extract. The identification and quantification of polyphenol compounds belonging to different classes, such as tannins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids in pomegranate peel and flavonoid compounds in orange peel were performed using UPLC-MS/MS. In addition, GC-MS analysis of orange peel essential oil discovered that the predominant compound is D-Limonene (95.7%). The aqueous and methanolic extracts of pomegranate peel were proven to be efficient against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria linked to human infections. Sponge cake substituting wheat flour with 3% pomegranate peel and 10% orange peel powder had the highest total phenolic, flavonoid compounds, and antioxidant activity as compared to the control cake. Our results concluded that pomegranate and orange peel flour can be used in cake preparation and natural food preservers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossam S. El-Beltagi
- Agricultural Biotechnology Department, College of Agricultural and Food Science, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 400, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
- Correspondence: (H.S.E.-B.); or (H.I.M.); (A.W.D.)
| | - Nareman S. Eshak
- Home Economics Department, Faculty of Specific Education, Assiut University, Assiut 71516, Egypt;
| | - Heba I. Mohamed
- Biological and Geological Sciences Department, Faculty of Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11341, Egypt
- Correspondence: (H.S.E.-B.); or (H.I.M.); (A.W.D.)
| | - Eslam S. A. Bendary
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11241, Egypt;
| | - Amal W. Danial
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut 71516, Egypt
- Correspondence: (H.S.E.-B.); or (H.I.M.); (A.W.D.)
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Catalano A, Iacopetta D, Ceramella J, Mariconda A, Rosano C, Scumaci D, Saturnino C, Longo P, Sinicropi MS. New Achievements for the Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Applied Sciences 2022; 12:5554. [DOI: 10.3390/app12115554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) constitutes a heterogeneous group of malignancies that are often aggressive and associated with a poor prognosis. The development of new TNBC treatment strategies has become an urgent clinical need. Diagnosis and subtyping of TNBC are essential to establish alternative treatments and targeted therapies for every TNBC patient. Chemotherapy, particularly with anthracycline and taxanes, remains the backbone for medical management for both early and metastatic TNBC. More recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapy have revolutionized cancer treatment. Included in the different strategies studied for TNBC treatment is drug repurposing. Despite the numerous medications available, numerous studies in medicinal chemistry are still aimed at the synthesis of new compounds in order to find new antiproliferative agents capable of treating TNBC. Additionally, some supplemental micronutrients, nutraceuticals and functional foods can potentially reduce the risk of developing cancer or can retard the rate of growth and metastases of established malignant diseases. Finally, nanotechnology in medicine, termed nanomedicines, introduces nanoparticles of variable chemistry and architecture for cancer treatment. This review highlights the most recent studies in search of new therapies for the treatment of TNBC, along with nutraceuticals and repositioning of drugs.
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Akbarian M, Mirzavi F, Amirahmadi S, Hosseini M, Alipour M, Feizi H, Rajabian A. Amelioration of oxidative stress, cholinergic dysfunction, and neuroinflammation in scopolamine-induced amnesic rats fed with pomegranate seed. Inflammopharmacology 2022; 30:1021-1035. [DOI: 10.1007/s10787-022-00971-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Maio ACD, Basile G, Iacopetta D, Catalano A, Ceramella J, Cafaro D, Saturnino C, Sinicropi MS. The significant role of nutraceutical compounds in ulcerative colitis treatment. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:4216-4234. [PMID: 34961429 DOI: 10.2174/0929867329666211227121321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) mainly affecting the colon and the rectum. Its main characters are represented by relapsing and remitting mucosal inflammation, starting in the rectum and typically extending continuously proximally through part or the entire colon. UC pathogenesis depends on multiple factors, such as genetic predisposition, defects in the epithelial barrier, dysregulated immune responses, and environmental causes. The most frequent symptoms are abdominal pain, weight loss, mucus discharge, bloody diarrhoea, incontinence, nocturnal defecations, fever, and anemia. Existing therapies for UC include 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) and its derivatives, steroids, immunosuppressants and biological drugs. However, limited efficacy and unwanted adverse effects hardly limit these strategies of treatment. In the last decades, research studies have been driven towards complementary and alternative medicines for the treatment of UC. Various nutraceuticals have exhibited promising results in modulating intestinal inflammation meanwhile improving symptoms. These compounds possess a wide spectrum of positive health effects evidenced by in vitro studies, characterized by their involvement in antioxidant defenses, cell proliferation, and gene expression. The present review analyzes the available data about the different types of nutraceuticals and their potential effectiveness as adjuvant therapy of IBD, with particular emphasis to UC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azzurra Chiara De Maio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Giovanna Basile
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Domenico Iacopetta
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Alessia Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Jessica Ceramella
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
| | - Danilo Cafaro
- Proctology Surgery, Tropea Hospital, Vibo Valentia, Italy
| | - Carmela Saturnino
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Maria Stefania Sinicropi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy
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Khokar R, Hachani K, Hasan M, Othmani F, Essam M, Al Mamari A, UM D, Khan SA. Anti-Alzheimer potential of a waste by-product (peel) of Omani pomegranate fruits: Quantification of phenolic compounds, in-vitro antioxidant, anti-cholinesterase and in-silico studies. Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2021.102223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Singh M, Lee KE, Vinayagam R, Kang SG. Antioxidant and Antibacterial Profiling of Pomegranate-pericarp Extract Functionalized-zinc Oxide Nanocomposite. BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2021;:1-10. [PMID: 34720608 DOI: 10.1007/s12257-021-0211-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
With the advancement in green nanotechnology, considerable attention is being given to the synthesis of different kinds of nanomaterials for biological applications. In this study, zinc oxide nanocomposites (ZnO NPs) were synthesized using Punica granatum L. (Pomegranate) pericarp ethanolic extract (PE) by the chemical precipitation method. The prepared ZnO NPs showed a characteristic peak at 270 nm in the UV-Vis spectrophotometer and chemical bond stretching in the Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectra, indicated the formation of PE-functionalized zinc oxide nanocomposite (PE-ZnO NPs). The SEM results showed agglomerated PE-ZnO NPs of a spherical shape with an average size of 80-100 nm. Moreover, biological assessment of the PE-ZnO NPs revealed significant scavenging activity in DPPH (116.5%) and ABTS·+ (95.2%) radical assay methods, and substantial antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus licheniformis, and Escherichia coli. Furthermore, PE-ZnO NPs showed about 96.3% of cell viability for human HaCaT cells at the maximum concentration (100 µg/mL), marked as a reliable bioactive agent. Therefore, the developed PE-ZnO NPs were elucidated with substantial ROS scavenger and non-antibiotic antibacterial agent and hence, can be applied in respective biological applications.
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Dini I, Laneri S. The New Challenge of Green Cosmetics: Natural Food Ingredients for Cosmetic Formulations. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26133921. [PMID: 34206931 PMCID: PMC8271805 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26133921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, much attention is paid to issues such as ecology and sustainability. Many consumers choose “green cosmetics”, which are environmentally friendly creams, makeup, and beauty products, hoping that they are not harmful to health and reduce pollution. Moreover, the repeated mini-lock downs during the COVID-19 pandemic have fueled the awareness that body beauty is linked to well-being, both external and internal. As a result, consumer preferences for makeup have declined, while those for skincare products have increased. Nutricosmetics, which combines the benefits derived from food supplementation with the advantages of cosmetic treatments to improve the beauty of our body, respond to the new market demands. Food chemistry and cosmetic chemistry come together to promote both inside and outside well-being. A nutricosmetic optimizes the intake of nutritional microelements to meet the needs of the skin and skin appendages, improving their conditions and delaying aging, thus helping to protect the skin from the aging action of environmental factors. Numerous studies in the literature show a significant correlation between the adequate intake of these supplements, improved skin quality (both aesthetic and histological), and the acceleration of wound-healing. This review revised the main foods and bioactive molecules used in nutricosmetic formulations, their cosmetic effects, and the analytical techniques that allow the dosage of the active ingredients in the food.
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Kostka T, Ostberg-Potthoff JJ, Briviba K, Matsugo S, Winterhalter P, Esatbeyoglu T. Pomegranate ( Punica granatum L.) Extract and Its Anthocyanin and Copigment Fractions-Free Radical Scavenging Activity and Influence on Cellular Oxidative Stress. Foods 2020; 9:E1617. [PMID: 33172172 PMCID: PMC7694777 DOI: 10.3390/foods9111617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary plant metabolites, e.g., polyphenols, are widely known as health-improving compounds that occur in natural functional foods such as pomegranates. While extracts generated from these fruits inhibit oxidative stress, the allocation of these effects to the different subgroups of substances, e.g., anthocyanins, "copigments" (polyphenols without anthocyanins), or polymeric compounds, is still unknown. Therefore, in the present study, polyphenols from pomegranate juice were extracted and separated into an anthocyanin and copigment fraction using adsorptive membrane chromatography. Phenolic compounds were determined by high performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array (HPLC-PDA) detection and HPLC-PDA electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS), while the free radical scavenging activity of the pomegranate XAD‑7 extract and its fractions was evaluated by the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assay and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. Compared to juice, the total phenolic content and free radical scavenging potential was significantly higher in the pomegranate XAD-7 extract and its fractions. In comparison to the anthocyanin and copigment fraction, pomegranate XAD-7 extract showed the highest radical scavenging activity against galvinoxyl and DPPH radicals. Moreover, the enriched XAD-7 extract and its fractions were able to protect human hepatocellular HepG2 cells against oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide. Overall, these results indicated that anthocyanins and copigments act together in reducing oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Kostka
- Institute of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz University of Hannover, Am Kleinen Felde 30, 30167 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Johanna Josefine Ostberg-Potthoff
- Institute of Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Schleinitzstrasse 20, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany; (J.J.O.-P.); (P.W.)
| | - Karlis Briviba
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry of Nutrition, Max Rubner-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Nutrition and Food, Haid-und-Neu-Str.9, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany;
| | - Seiichi Matsugo
- School of Natural System, College of Science and Engineering, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-Machi, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan;
| | - Peter Winterhalter
- Institute of Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Schleinitzstrasse 20, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany; (J.J.O.-P.); (P.W.)
| | - Tuba Esatbeyoglu
- Institute of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz University of Hannover, Am Kleinen Felde 30, 30167 Hannover, Germany;
- Department of Safety and Quality of Fruit and Vegetables, Max Rubner-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Nutrition and Food, Haid-und-Neu-Str.9, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
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