Bioactive Compounds, Nutritional Value, and Potential Health Benefits of Indigenous Durian (Durio Zibethinus Murr.): A Review

Comparative Effects of Durian and Banana Consumption on Thermic Effect of Food and Metabolic Responses in Healthy Adults

OBJECTIVE

In traditional Chinese philosophy, durian is classified as a "yang" food with heaty properties, believed to raise body temperature and blood pressure (BP) after consumption. In contrast, bananas are considered as "yin," possessing cooling effect. However, scientific evidence supporting these concepts is limited. This study aims to compare the metabolic effects in response to durian and banana ingestion.

METHODS

This randomized cross-over clinical study recruited 16 young, healthy Chinese participants (8 males and 8 females). All participants ingested isocaloric portion (367.5 kcal) of durian and banana with a wash-out period of at least 5 days. 3-h thermic effect of food (TEF) and substrate oxidation were assessed by indirect calorimetry. Postprandial vital signs and metabolic responses were measured over a period of 3 h.

RESULTS

Durian induced a higher and longer-lasting TEF than banana in most participants. Additionally, durian significantly lowered BP and increased triglyceride (TG) levels during 3 h after consumption, whereas bananas had no significant effects on these measures. Despite containing much fewer carbohydrates, durian prompted a comparable postprandial rise in blood glucose concentrations to that of banana.

CONCLUSION

While durian offers nutritional benefits and a BP-lowering effect, moderation is recommended due to its high sugar and fat content, which can elevate blood glucose and lipid levels, and its "heatiness" may cause digestive discomforts and a sore throat according to anecdotal experiences.

Quantification of mulberrin and morusin in mulberry and other food plants via stable isotope dilution analysis using LC-MS/MS

Mulberry (Morus) is an important food and medicinal plant primarily used in sericulture. It is rich in prenylated flavonoids like morusin and mulberrin, which have shown promising bioactivities in vitro and in vivo but so far rely on HPLC methods for their quantification in plant material. Hence, a more sensitive LC-MS/MS stable isotope dilution assay for morusin and mulberrin was developed and validated. The analytes were quantified in 17 plant samples, with up to three plant compartments investigated (branches, leaves, fruits). The highest amounts were found in branches of a German mulberry tree (43 μg/g morusin, 910 μg/g mulberrin). Limits of detection reached 0.02 μg/g for morusin and 0.06 μg/g for mulberrin, which is significantly lower than existing methods, allowing for the detection and quantification of the analytes in leaves and fruits of mulberry, as well as common snowball (Viburnum opulus), a common food and medicine plant.

Impact of postharvest processing on the health benefits of durian-derived products

Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) is a seasonal fruit with a short harvesting period, requiring postharvest processing such as cutting, peeling, freeze-drying, cooking, and frying to enhance its shelf life and nutritional quality. In this study, fresh Monthong durian (MTD), MTD Sticks, MTD Cake, and MTD Chips were analyzed for polyphenols, phenolic acids, tannins, flavonoids and thermal stability. Antioxidant activity was assessed using Cupric Reducing Antioxidant Capacity and DPPH radical scavenger methods. Fourier transform infrared spectra characterized the functional groups in extracts, while protein stability was evaluated by electrophoresis. Polyphenols' interaction with human serum proteins showed varied binding affinities, influenced by glycation, particularly in diabetic conditions. MTD had the highest phenolic content, followed by MTD Sticks, Cake, and Chips. This study proposes that durian products, abundant in polyphenols and produced without added sugar during postharvest processing, could serve as functional foods, potentially supporting the management of glycation-related disorders such as diabetes.

Comparative analysis of the nutritional, physicochemical, and bioactive characteristics of Artemisia abyssinica and Artemisia arborescens for the evaluation of their potential as ingredients in functional foods

Artemisia abyssinica and Artemisia arborescens are unique plants that show significant bioactive properties and are used for the treatment of a variety of diseases. This study assessed the nutritional values, functional properties, chemical composition, and bioactive attributes of these plants as functional nutritional supplements. Compared to A. arborescens, A. abyssinica had higher fat (4.76%), fiber (16.07%), total carbohydrates (55.87%), and energy (302.15 kcal/100 g DW), along with superior functional properties, including higher water and oil absorption capacities (638.81% and 425.85%, respectively) and foaming capacity and stability (25.67% and 58.48%). The investigation of volatile compounds found that A. abyssinica had higher amounts of hotrienol (4.53%), yomogi alcohol (3.92%), caryophyllene (3.67%), and carvotanacetone (3.64%), which possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Artemisia abyssinica contributed over 30% of the recommended dietary intake (RDI) of amino acids. It displayed superior levels of sodium (31.46 mg/100 g DW) and calcium (238.07 mg/100 g DW). It also exhibited higher levels of organic acids, particularly malic acid, butyric acid, and succinic acid, compared to A. arborescens. Fatty acid analysis revealed palmitic and linoleic acids as primary components in both plants, with A. abyssinica having a higher palmitic acid content. Artemisia abyssinica also had higher vitamin C and thiamine levels. Although A. arborescens showed the highest total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity, and capacity, A. abyssinica demonstrated acceptable efficiency in TPC and antioxidant content. These findings highlight the potential of both Artemisia species, particularly A. abyssinica, as valuable sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds for various applications.

Characterization of indigenous Durio species from Sarawak, Borneo: relationships between chemical composition and sensory attributes

Sarawak, Borneo, harbours 16 unique Durio species, half of which are edible, with only Durio zibethinus widely cultivated. Despite their nutritional and economic significance to the rural communities in Sarawak, the lesser-known indigenous durians remain underrepresented in the scientific literature while facing the risk of extinction in the wild. Thus, the aim of this study was to conduct comprehensive chemical analyses of these wild edible durians, offering insights into their nutritional and sensory taste attributes. The edible part was separated at optimal ripeness, and the samples were subjected to further analysis. Wild edible durian genotypes exhibit varied characteristics, even within the same species. The majority of wild durians are characterized by a sugar composition consisting predominantly of sucrose, constituting 67.38-96.96%, except for the red-fleshed Durio graveolens renowned for its low total sugar content (0.49 ± 0.17 g per 100 g). Despite its bland taste, this species possessed significantly greater fat (14.50 ± 0.16%) and fibre (12.30 ± 0.14%) content. Durio dulcis exhibited a significantly greater carbohydrate content (29.37-30.60%), and its intense smell was attributed to its low protein content (2.03-2.04%). Indigenous durians offer substantial percentages of daily mineral intake, with 100 g servings providing approximately 15.71-26.80% of potassium, 71.72-86.52% of phosphorus, 9.33-27.31% of magnesium, and sufficient trace minerals. The vibrant flesh colours of yellow-, orange- and red-fleshed Durio graveolens and Durio kutejensis show high levels of ascorbic acid (31.41-61.56 mg 100 g-1), carotenoids (976.36-2627.18 µg 100 g-1) and antioxidant properties, while Durio dulcis and Durio oxleyanus, despite their dull flesh, contained high phenolic (67.95-74.77 mg GAE 100 g-1) and flavonoid (8.71-13.81 QE mg 100 g-1) levels. These endeavours provide a deeper understanding of the nutritional richness of wild edible durians, thereby supporting commercialization and conservation efforts.

Exploring unconventional food plants used by local communities in a rural area of West Java, Indonesia: ethnobotanical assessment, use trends, and potential for improved nutrition

BACKGROUND

As one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, Indonesia contains over 25,000 plant species, including unconventional food plants (UFPs). These plants are integral to the dietary practices of rural communities, providing essential nutrients often overlooked in modern diets. However, the use of UFP is declining, with both their dietary and cultural values being undermined. In rural West Java, this decline in UFP biodiversity coincides with public health challenges related to malnutrition. This study aims to document the diversity of UFPs used by local communities in rural West Java, assess their nutritional value, and explore their consumption practices.

METHODS

Data were collected using mixed methods, including interviews with 20 key informants and food frequency questionnaire administered to 107 women in three villages in the area. The nutritional compositions of documented UFPs were obtained from literature and analysis. Bivariate correlation was used to analyze the relationships between UFP consumption frequency and potential correlates.

RESULTS

The study documented 52 species of UFPs from 29 families, many of which are rich in nutritional value. About half of respondents (56%) consumed UFPs moderately (2-3 times a week). UFP consumption frequency had a strong correlation (r = 0.70) with associated knowledge (r = 0.70, p < 0.01) and a weak correlation with age (r = 0.240, p = 0.015), livestock possession (r = 0.260, p = 0.008), and family size (r = - 0.220, p = 0.02). Motivations for UFP consumption included availability as free food (33%), medicinal value (26%), nostalgic value (23%), and preferred taste (18%). Most respondents (92%) agreed that consumption has declined compared to the past, with perceived reduced availability and lack of knowledge cited as the primary reasons for the declining trend.

CONCLUSIONS

UFP use is common in the study area, where local communities value these plants for their critical roles in diet, medicine, and culture. Given their significant potential to meet dietary needs, educating and raising awareness about UFPs can enhance their consumption and contribute to food and nutrition security.

Unveiling phenylpropanoid regulation: the role of DzMYB activator and repressor in durian (Durio zibethinus) fruit

KEY MESSAGE

DzMYB2 functions as an MYB activator, while DzMYB3 acts as an MYB repressor. They bind to promoters, interact with DzbHLH1, and influence phenolic contents, revealing their roles in phenylpropanoid regulation in durian pulps. Durian fruit has a high nutritional value attributed to its enriched bioactive compounds, including phenolics, carotenoids, and vitamins. While various transcription factors (TFs) regulate phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, MYB (v-myb avian myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog) TFs have emerged as pivotal players in regulating key genes within this pathway. This study aimed to identify additional candidate MYB TFs from the transcriptome database of the Monthong cultivar at five developmental/postharvest ripening stages. Candidate transcriptional activators were discerned among MYBs upregulated during the ripe stage based on the positive correlation observed between flavonoid biosynthetic genes and flavonoid contents in ripe durian pulps. Conversely, MYBs downregulated during the ripe stage were considered candidate repressors. This study focused on a candidate MYB activator (DzMYB2) and a candidate MYB repressor (DzMYB3) for functional characterization. LC-MS/MS analysis using Nicotiana benthamiana leaves transiently expressing DzMYB2 revealed increased phenolic compound contents compared with those in leaves expressing green fluorescence protein controls, while those transiently expressing DzMYB3 showed decreased phenolic compound contents. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that DzMYB2 controls phenylpropanoid biosynthesis in durian by regulating the promoters of various biosynthetic genes, including phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), chalcone synthase (CHS), chalcone isomerase (CHI), and dihydroflavonol reductase (DFR). Meanwhile, DzMYB3 regulates the promoters of PAL, 4-coumaroyl-CoA ligase (4CL), CHS, and CHI, resulting in the activation and repression of gene expression. Moreover, it was discovered that DzMYB2 and DzMYB3 could bind to another TF, DzbHLH1, in the regulation of flavonoid biosynthesis. These findings enhance our understanding of the pivotal role of MYB proteins in regulating the phenylpropanoid pathway in durian pulps.

Formation of plasmonic core/shell nanorods through ammonia-mediated dissolution of silver(i)oxide for ammonia monitoring

Due to the expansion of the aquaculture industry in the world and the importance of controlling ammonia in fish breeding water, high levels of which impose significant damage to fish farming, it is crucial to develop affordable, rapid, and on-site methods for timely and accurate detection of ammonia. In this study, a colorimetric sensor based on the formation of gold/silver core/shell nanorods (NRs) was developed for the rapid detection of ammonia. The sensor functioned by the specific dissolution of silver(i) oxide by ammonia, which triggered the activation of silver ions and the subsequent formation of gold/silver core/shell NRs in the presence of a reducing agent (i.e., ascorbic acid (AA)). This led to changes in the surface composition, size, and aspect ratio of the NRs, which was accompanied by a vivid color change from green to red/orange in less than a minute. The colorimetric sensor was optimized by adjusting the effective parameters, including ascorbic acid, silver ion, and sodium hydroxide concentration as well as pH and reaction time. After the optimization process, the sensor was found to have a linear range from 50 to 800 μmol L-1 (0.85-13.6 ppm). In addition, the application of the sensor was validated by measuring the ammonia content in water samples from rearing ponds for rainbow trout, sturgeon, and tilapia before and after feeding. The sensor's label-free, rapid, user-friendly, naked-eye, and cost-effective operation makes it an attractive option for on-site environmental monitoring of ammonia.

The complete chloroplast genome of Durio zibethinus L. cultivar Ri6 (Helicteroideae, Malvaceae)

Durian, a member of the Malvaceae family, is famous for its delicious fruits, which have strong scents and are rich in nutrients. In this study, we sequenced and characterized the complete chloroplast genome of Durio zibethinus L. 1774 cultivar Ri6, a popular durian cultivar in Vietnam, using the Illumina Hiseq platform. The results showed a circular chloroplast genome composed of a large single copy of 96,115 bp, a small single copy of 20,819 bp, and two inverted repeat regions of 24,185 bp. This genome consisted of 79 protein-coding genes, 30 transfer RNA genes, and four ribosomal RNA genes. The overall GC content of this genome was 35.7%. Phylogenetic analysis inferred from 78 protein-coding regions revealed monophyly of Durio species and a close relationship between D. zibethinus cultivar Ri6 and cultivar Mongthong. This study provides essential information for further studies examining genetic population, breedings, and species identification among Durio taxa and cultivars.

A Whiff of Sulfur: One Wind a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Reactive Sulfur Species (RSS), such as allicin from garlic or sulforaphane from broccoli, are fre-quently associated with biological activities and possible health benefits in animals and humans. Among these Organic Sulfur Compounds (OSCs) found in many plants and fungi, the Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs) feature prominently, not only because of their often-pungent smell, but also because they are able to access places which solids and solutions cannot reach that easily. Indeed, inorganic RSS such as hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) can be used to lit-erally fumigate entire rooms and areas. Similarly, metabolites of garlic, such as allyl methyl sulfide (AMS), are formed metabolically in humans in lower concentrations and reach the airways from inside the body as part of one’s breath. Curiously, H₂S is also formed in the gastrointestinal tract by gut bacteria, and the question of if and for which purpose this gas then crosses the barriers and enters the body is indeed a delicate matter for equally delicate studies. In any case, nature is surprisingly rich in such VSCs, as fruits (for instance, the infamous durian) demonstrate, and therefore these VSCs represent a promising group of compounds for further studies.

The Effectiveness Antimicrobial of Polysaccharide Gel from Durian Peel Ethanol Extract and Chitosan Gel

BACKGROUND: Research on galenic bioactive compounds as antimicrobial agents needs to be developed. Durian peel ethanol extract is a polar polysaccharide consisting of D-galacturonic acid with -1,4 glycosidic bonds and can form a polysaccharide gel. Chitosan can be synthesized through the deacetylation of chitin as a compound (1.4)-2 amino-2deoxy D-glucopyranose and can form a gel in 1.5–2% acetic acid. The properties of chitosan are biodegradable, non-toxic, polycationic antimicrobial, and biocompatible. AIM: The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the ethanolic extract of PG durian peel and CG as antimicrobial agents. METHODS: The research design was an experimental study and conducted at the Microbiology Laboratory, Faculty of Health, Setia Budi University, Surakarta, in August–December 2020. The research stages were the extraction of durian skin polysaccharides, bioformulation of PG durian peel extract and CG, and antimicrobial activity testing using the diffusion method. RESULTS: The results showed PG durian peel ethanolic extract concentration (100%, 50%, 25%, 12.5%, 1.5%, and CG 1.5% %) or a combination of durian peel extract PG (1.5%) and CG (1.5%) 1:1 ratio; 1:2; 2:1 was antimicrobial against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Salmonella typhi ATCC 13311, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, and Candida albicans ATCC 10231. PG durian peel ethanolic extract concentration of 100%, 50%, 25%, 12.5%, 1.5%, and CG 1.5% or a combination of durian peels ethanolic extract PG (1.5%) and CG (1.5%) ratio 1:1; 1:2; and 2:1 as an antimicrobial in vitro. CONCLUSION: PG durian peels ethanolic extract concentration 100% showed optimum effectiveness as an antimicrobial against B. subtilis ATCC 6633. Chitosan 1.5% showed optimal effectiveness as an antimicrobial against P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853. The effectiveness of the mixture of PG 1.5% and CG 1.5% ratio 1:2 showed optimum effectiveness against all test cultures.

Minor tropical fruits as a potential source of bioactive and functional foods

Tropical fruits are defined as fruits that are grown in hot and humid regions within the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn, covering most of the tropical and subtropical areas of Asia, Africa, Central America, South America, the Caribbean and Oceania. Depending on the cultivation area covered, economic value and popularity these tropical fruits are divided into major and minor tropical fruits. There is an annual increment of 3.8% in terms of commercialization of the tropical fruits. In total 26 minor tropical fruits (Kiwifruit, Lutqua, Carambola, Tree Tomato, Elephant apple, Rambutan, Bay berry, Mangosteen, Bhawa, Loquat, Silver berry, Durian, Persimon, Longan, Passion fruit, Water apple, Pulasan, Indian gooseberry, Guava, Lychee, Annona, Pitaya, Sapodilla, Pepino, Jaboticaba, Jackfruit) have been covered in this work. The nutritional composition, phytochemical composition, health benefits, traditional use of these minor tropical fruits and their role in food fortification have been portrayed.

Identification and characterization of genome-wide resistance gene analogs (RGAs) of durian (Durio zibethinus L.)

BACKGROUND

Durian (Durio zibethinus L.) is a tropical fruit crop which is popular in Southeast Asia but recently gaining popularity in other parts of the world. In this study, we analyzed the resistance gene analogs (RGAs) of durian through mining of the currently available reference genome of its 'Musang King' cultivar (PRJNA400310).

RESULTS

A total of 2586 RGAs were identified in the durian genome consisting of 47 nucleotide binding site proteins (NBS), 158 NBS-leucine rich repeat proteins (NL), 400 coiled-coil NBS-LRR (CNL), 72 toll/interleukin-1 receptor NBS-LRR (TNL), 54 coiled-coil NBS (CN), 10 toll/interleukin-1 receptor NBS (TN), 19 toll/interleukin-1 receptor with unknown domain (TX), 246 receptor-like proteins (RLP), 1,377 receptor-like kinases (RLK), 185 TM-CC, and 18 other NBS-containing proteins with other domains. These RGAs were functionally annotated and characterized via gene ontology (GO) analysis. Among the RGAs with the highest copies in durian genome include the putative disease resistance RPP13-like protein 1, disease resistance protein At4g27190, disease resistance protein RPS6, Probable disease resistance protein At4g27220, and putative disease resistance protein RGA3, while 35 RGAs were found to be novel. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the genome-wide RGAs were broadly clustered into four major clades based on their domain classification.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the most comprehensive analysis of durian RGAs which provides a valuable resource for genetic, agronomic, and other biological research of this important tropical fruit crop.

Tropical fruits from Australia as potential treatments for metabolic syndrome

Australia has a unique and diverse flora, including indigenous fruits, used by Australian Aboriginals for food and medicines for up to 45,000 years as well as recently introduced fruits for commercial production. However, this range of fruits has not led to the development of functional foods, for example for chronic inflammatory diseases such as metabolic syndrome including obesity, hypertension, fatty liver and diabetes. This review examines the potential of tropical and subtropical fruits from Australia to be used as functional foods for metabolic syndrome, including Davidson's plum, Queen Garnet plum, durian, litchi, breadfruit, jackfruit, mangosteen, papaya, jabuticaba, coffee and seaweed. Preclinical studies have defined potential responses of these functional foods in metabolic syndrome but the usefulness in humans with metabolic syndrome requires clinical studies which are scarce in the relevant literature. Overall, these Australian examples show that tropical fruits can provide functional foods to decrease chronic inflammatory diseases.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) pulp, seed and peel flour

The unripe pulp, inner peel and seed of durian were used in this study. These are generally not considered edible and must be disposed of as waste. However, they are good sources of bioactive compounds. Flour extracts from the unripe pulp, inner peel, and seed of two durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) varieties, namely, Monthong and Chanee, were analyzed chemically to determine their total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory capacities. Chanee pulp (CPu) contained a higher TPC (5285.37 ± 517.65 mg GAE/g) than Monthong pulp (MPu), Monthong peel (MP), Monthong seed (MS), Chanee peel (CP) and Chanee seed (CS) (p = 0.0027, 0.0042, 0.0229, 0.0069 and 0.36), respectively. The antioxidant activity of each durian extract was determined against ABTS, nitric oxide, superoxide, hydroxyl, and metal ions. The results indicated that the pulp, inner peel and seed of these durian varieties had antioxidant capacities. Murine Raw 264.7 macrophages were used to determine the cytotoxicity of the flour extracts. The extract of CS flour had the lowest cytotoxicity followed by MP, CPu, CP, MPu and MS (p = 0.5926, 0.44, 0.3191, 0.1471 and 0.0014), respectively. The anti-inflammatory activity was tested by anti-nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated cells by co-treating the Raw 264.7 cells with each durian flour extract and LPS. The extract of MP flour had the lowest IC50 against NO production, indicating the highest anti-NO production activity followed by CS, CPu, MPu, CP and MS (p = 0.7473, 0.0104, < 0.0001, 0.0002 and < 0.0001, respectively). The information obtained in this study is useful for researchers to explore more durian varieties in Southeast Asia to find bioactive compounds that might be novel nutraceuticals for antioxidant, anti-inflammation and therapeutic functional food.

The Antimicrobial Effectiveness of Chitosan and Polysaccharide of Durian Peel Extract against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolates

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) disease is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is transmitted through sputum droplets of sufferers or suspect TB in the air. Chitosan as an antimicrobial agent can be used in the biomedical field because it has a number of hydroxyl groups (OH) and amine groups (NH2). The chemical substance of durian peel extract (Durio zibethinus L.) contains pectin which is multifunctional and can be used in the pharmaceutical field. Chemically, pectin is a polysaccharide polymer of D-galacturonic acid linked by -1,4 glycosidic bonds which can dissolve in water to form colloidal solutions or gels. AIM: This study was to determine the antimicrobial effectiveness of chitosan and polysaccharides from durian peel extract (D. zibethinus L.) against M. tuberculosis isolates in vitro. METHODS: The research method is based on an experimental study in vitro. M. tuberculosis isolates in this research from sputum samples of patients suspected of TB in Surakarta Regional General Hospital. The stages of the research were performed that preparation chitosan gel (CG), bioformulation of CG, and polysaccharide gel (PG) durian peel extract are 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%, and drug susceptibility testing against M. tuberculosis isolates. RESULTS: CG 10% was effective as an antimicrobial against M. tuberculosis isolates but PG durian peel extract (5%; 10%; 15%; 20%; and 25%) was not effective as an antimicrobial against M. tuberculosis isolates. The types of anti-tuberculosis drug (ATD) that was effective against M. tuberculosis isolates were ethambutol 80% and streptomycin 40%, while isoniazid and rifampicin were not effective as ATD against M. tuberculosis isolates. CONCLUSION: CG 10% was effective as an antimicrobial against M. tuberculosis isolates, while PG 25% durian peel extract was not effective as an antimicrobial against M. tuberculosis isolates. CG has the potential as an ATD based on natural bioactive ingredients for TB therapy.

Genome-wide identification and expression profiling of durian CYPome related to fruit ripening

Durian (Durio zibethinus L.) is a major economic crop native to Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand. Accordingly, understanding durian fruit ripening is an important factor in its market worldwide, owing to the fact that it is a climacteric fruit with a strikingly limited shelf life. However, knowledge regarding the molecular regulation of durian fruit ripening is still limited. Herein, we focused on cytochrome P450, a large enzyme family that regulates many biosynthetic pathways of plant metabolites and phytohormones. Deep mining of the durian genome and transcriptome libraries led to the identification of all P450s that are potentially involved in durian fruit ripening. Gene expression validation by RT-qPCR showed a high correlation with the transcriptome libraries at five fruit ripening stages. In addition to aril-specific and ripening-associated expression patterns, putative P450s that are potentially involved in phytohormone metabolism were selected for further study. Accordingly, the expression of CYP72, CYP83, CYP88, CYP94, CYP707, and CYP714 was significantly modulated by external treatment with ripening regulators, suggesting possible crosstalk between phytohormones during the regulation of fruit ripening. Interestingly, the expression levels of CYP88, CYP94, and CYP707, which are possibly involved in gibberellin, jasmonic acid, and abscisic acid biosynthesis, respectively, were significantly different between fast- and slow-post-harvest ripening cultivars, strongly implying important roles of these hormones in fruit ripening. Taken together, these phytohormone-associated P450s are potentially considered additional molecular regulators controlling ripening processes, besides ethylene and auxin, and are economically important biological traits.

Analysis of Phytonutrients, Anti-Mutagenic and Chemopreventive Effects of Tropical Fruit Extracts

Thailand is located in the tropics and a wide variety of fruits are grown commercially. However, studies regarding the phytonutrients, anti-mutagenic and chemopreventive effects of these fruits are limited. Thus, phytochemical profiles and inhibition of key enzymes involved in obesity and diabetes, together with anti-mutagenic and chemopreventive properties of eight tropical fruit extracts cultivated in Thailand, including Psidium guajava 'Kimju', Psidium guajava 'Keenok', Ananas comosus 'Pattavia', Ananas comosus 'Phulae', Durio zibethinus 'Chanee', Durio zibethinus 'Monthong', Carica papaya 'Khaekdum' and Mangifera indica 'Namdokmai' were investigated. Different cultivars were also compared. Results showed that M. indica 'Namdokmai' was the most antioxidant-rich extract containing abundant 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and its derivative, gallic acid, as the main phenolics. M. indica 'Namdokmai' also exhibited high inhibitory capacities (>60% inhibition under studied conditions) against lipase, α-amylase and α-glucosidase, key enzymes as drug targets for controlling obesity and type 2 diabetes. Interestingly, all fruit extracts suppressed food mutagen-induced DNA mutations assayed by the Ames test, especially M. indica 'Namdokmai' and C. papaya 'Khaekdum' (>50% inhibition at 200 µg/plate). The M. indica 'Namdokmai' was also the most potent extract for suppression of cancer promotion (>90% inhibition at 200 µg/mL) followed by P. guajava 'Kimju', P. guajava 'Keenok' and C. papaya 'Khaekdum'. Results potentially indicated that fruit intake after overcooked meat consumption might supplement nutrients and fiber and also reduce DNA mutation sources.

Improved glucose recovery from durian peel by alkaline-catalyzed steam pretreatment

Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) peel, as agricultural waste, is a potential under-utilized lignocellulosic biomass that is sufficiently available in Thailand. In this study, durian peel from monthong (D. zibethinus Murr. cv. Monthong) and chanee (D.zibethinus Murr. cv. Chanee) were subjected to pretreatment with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) under autoclaving conditions to improve glucose recovery. The effect of NaOH concentration (1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%) and autoclave temperature (110 °C, 120 °C, and 130 °C) was investigated based on the amount of glucose recovered. The optimal NaOH concentration and autoclave temperature were determined to be 2% and 110 °C, respectively, under which maximum glucose (36% and 35% in monthong and chanee peels, respectively) was recovered. Glucose recovery was improved by about 6-fold at the optimal pretreatment condition for both pretreated monthong and chanee when compared to the untreated durian peels. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed great changes to the surface morphology of pretreated durian peel from the two cultivars. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis also revealed a rise in cellulose crystallinity index (CrIs) after pretreatment. A combination of mild NaOH concentration and autoclaving is a very effective pretreatment technique for maximum glucose recovery from durian peel.

Metagenomic-based Approach for the Analysis of Yeast Diversity Associated with Amylase Production in Lai (Durio kutejensis)

This study reported the application of a next generation sequencing (NGS) analysis of yeast diversity in native Indonesian fruit, Durio kutejensis, collected from Borneo, Central Kalimantan. The analysis was designed to observe the microbial consortium associated with solid state fermentation (SSF) for amylase production. Together with the additional data from culture-dependent analysis, we observed the morphological features, molecular characteristics, and amylase concentration produced by each isolate. We performed Solid State Fermentation (SSF) for amylase production and the enzyme activity was then determined using UV-Vis spectrophotometer at 540 nm. Result obtained from metagenomic approach consist of 4 group that fungal species included in the Ascomycota identified as Botryosphaeria dothidea (1.35%), Lasiodiplodia crassispora (17.62%), Aureobasidium pullulans (55.02%), Paraphoma chrysanthemicola (11.38%), Preussia funiculate (1.90%), Sporormiella intermedia (0.82%), Myrothecium gramineum (1.35%), Fusarium oxysporum (6.24%), Fusarium proliferatum (3.25%) and Phialemoniopsis curvata (1.08%). The results of isolation using culturable medium in the form of YMA obtained 40 yeast isolates. A total of 40 representative isolates from durian fruit were screened, two positive amylase isolates based on clear zones formed were DU 4.2 (Candida sorboxylosa) and DU4.22 (Cyberlindnera fabianii) isolates with amylolytic index of DU 4.2 isolates at 0.24 and DU 4.22 at 0.72 with an incubation time of 48 h. The highest amylase enzyme activity was found in isolate DU 4.2 of 31.21 U / mL.

Assessing Dynamic Changes of Taste-Related Primary Metabolism During Ripening of Durian Pulp Using Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analyses

Durian is an economically important fruit of Southeast Asia. There is, however, a lack of in-depth information on the alteration of its metabolic networks during ripening. Here, we annotated 94 ripening-associated metabolites from the pulp of durian cv. Monthong fruit at unripe and ripe stages, using capillary electrophoresis- and gas chromatography- time-of-flight mass spectrometry, specifically focusing on taste-related metabolites. During ripening, sucrose content increased. Change in raffinose-family oligosaccharides are reported herein for the first time. The malate and succinate contents increased, while those of citrate, an abundant organic acid, were unchanged. Notably, most amino acids increased, including isoleucine, leucine, and valine, whereas aspartate decreased, and glutamate was unchanged. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis was performed to analyze the dynamic changes in sugar metabolism, glycolysis, TCA cycle, and amino acid pathways to identify key candidate genes. Taken together, our results elucidate the fundamental taste-related metabolism of durian, which can be exploited to develop durian metabolic and genetic markers in the future.

Comprehensive Chemical Characterisation of Durio Zibethinus

This study investigated the chemical properties of Durio zibethinus (Durian) in Malaysia. The cultivars included in the present study were D101, D197, and Kampung. A wide range of chemical properties such as proximate nutritional content, minerals, total phenolic content was analysed using established analytical methods. The antioxidant capacity in term of free radical scavenging activity was determined using colorimetric assay, whereas metabolite profiles of samples were analysed by hyphenated high throughput tool like GC-MS. The results showed that D197 durian had the highest content of ash, protein, fat, and carbohydrate, but the lowest moisture level. Potassium was found to be the highest mineral (8.68–11.36 mg g–1), followed by sodium (3.2–7.6 mg g–1), magnesium (0.86–1.88 mg g–1), and calcium (2.74–3.80 mg g–1) in the tested cultivars. The major sulphur containing compounds (% relative peak area) such as hydrogen sulphide (5.0–8.3%), methanethiol (0.5–1.0%), ethanethiol (20.7–35.0%), 1-propanethiol (2.7– 9.5%), and diethyl disulphide (0.6–1.9%), and esters, especially ethyl 2-methylbutanoate (10.0–15.0%), methyl 2-methylbutanoate (1.0%), and propyl 2-methylbutanoate (1.5%) were detected when fresh samples were heated in headspace GC-MS. However, those compounds evaporated during ultrasound assisted extraction and oven drying even at 40 °C.

Characterization and anti-bacterial potential of iron oxide nanoparticle processed eco-friendly by plant extract

This research comprehends iron-oxide nanoparticle (IONP) production, the apparent metallic nanostructure with unique superparamagnetic properties. Durian-rind-extract was utilized to synthesize IONP and the color of reaction mixture becomes dark brown, indicated the formation of IONPs and the peak was observed at ∼330 nm under UV-visible spectroscopy. The morphological observation under high-resolution microscopies has revealed the spherical shape and the average size (∼10 nm) of IONP. The further support was rendered by EDX-analysis showing apparent iron and oxygen peaks. XRD results displayed the crystalline planes with (110) and (300) planes at 2θ of 35.73° and 63.53°, respectively. XPS-data has clearly demonstrated the presence of Fe₂P and O1s peaks. The IONPs were successfully capped by the polyphenol compounds from durian-rind-extract as evidenced by the representative peaks between 1633 and 595 cm^-1 from FTIR analysis. The antimicrobial potentials of IONPs were evidenced by the disk-diffusion assay. The obtained results have abundant attention and being actively explored owing to their beneficial applications.

Bioactives From Agri-Food Wastes: Present Insights and Future Challenges

Sustainable utilization of agri-food wastes and by-products for producing value-added products (for cosmetic, pharmaceutical or food industrial applications) provides an opportunity for earning additional income for the dependent industrial sector. Besides, effective valorisation of wastes/by-products can efficiently help in reducing environmental stress by decreasing unwarranted pollution. The major focus of this review is to provide comprehensive information on valorisation of agri-food wastes and by-products with focus laid on bioactive compounds and bioactivity. The review covers the bioactives identified from wastes and by-products of plants (fruits, exotic fruits, vegetables and seeds), animals (dairy and meat) and marine (fish, shellfish seaweeds) resources. Further, insights on the present status and future challenges of sustainably utilizing agri-food wastes/by-products for value addition will be highlighted.

Introduction to the Special Issue: Foods of Plant Origin

Plant food is usually rich in health-promoting ingredients such as polyphenols, carotenoids, betalains, glucosinolates, vitamins, minerals and fibre. However, pre- and post-harvest treatment, processing and storage can have significant effects on the concentration and composition of these bioactive ingredients. Furthermore, the plant food matrix in fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds is very different and can affect digestibility, bioavailability, processing properties and subsequently the nutritional value of the fresh and processed food. The Special Issue ‘Foods of Plant Origin’ covers biodiscovery, functionality, the effect of different cooking/preparation methods on bioactive (plant food) ingredients, and strategies to improve the nutritional quality of plant food by adding other food components using novel/alternative food sources or applying non-conventional preparation techniques.

Glycolytic genes expression, proapoptotic potential in relation to the total content of bioactive compounds in durian fruits

The properties of durian fruit at five stages of ripeness were evaluated and compared. The physicochemical parameters such as titratable acidity (TA) and total soluble solids (TSS) increased, whereas the pH slightly decreased during the ripening process. The highest contents of polyphenols, flavonoids, flavanols, tannins, vitamin C and the antioxidant capacities, measured by radical scavenging assays, were found in ripe and overripe fruits. The structural properties of extracted polyphenols were evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and fluorescence spectroscopy. The interaction of polyphenols with the main drug carrier in blood human serum albumin (HSA) showed decrease in its fluorescence intensity. The binding properties of polyphenols were in direct correlation with the antioxidant capacities of the investigated fruits. HepG2 cells evaluated cytotoxic effect and the mechanism of cell death after treatment with durian. The metabolism of carbohydrates was examined on the expression of glycolysis-related genes (hexokinase 2 (HK2); 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase 4 (PFKFB4); facilitated glucose transporter member 1 (SLC2A1 (Glut1)) and lactate dehydrogenase A and utilization of glucose in the hepatocytes with durian treatment. Durian in immature stage had stronger cytotoxic effect and weak proapoptotic potential on HepG2 cells than the mature and overripe ones. The ripe and overripe fruits increased the expression of hepatic HK2 and PFKFB4 glycolytic genes and stimulated glucose utilization in HepG2 cells. The present results indicate that durians reveal different biological activity and may provide their broad and extensive use as medicinal or functional foods.