Anthocyanins: A Comprehensive Review of Their Chemical Properties and Health Effects on Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Accelerating the conversion of black chokeberry anthocyanins toward vinylphenolic pyranoanthocyanins by displaying phenolic acid decarboxylase from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on the surface of Pichia pastoris

In fermented chokeberry products, hydroxycinnamic acids are enzymatically converted into 4-vinyl derivatives by phenolic acid decarboxylase (PAD), which react with anthocyanins (ACNs) to form stable pyranoanthocyanins (PACNs) that enhance color stability and exhibit excellent bioactivity. However, the fermentation process is usually acidic, the level of PAD secreted by microorganisms is limited and PAD has poor acid stability, resulting in low PACN production. To overcome this, we engineered a whole-cell biocatalyst (WCB) by displaying PAD from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on Pichia pastoris GS115 (dLPPAD). This WCB showed improved acid tolerance and thermal stability, efficiently converting Aronia melanocarpa anthocyanins (AMAs) into PACNs. Additionally, we examined the relationship between hydroxycinnamic acid structure and LPPAD catalytic efficiency. This work introduces a cost-effective, impurity-free biocatalytic strategy to enhance PACN yields, with potential applications in berry fermentation products and related industries.

Flavonoids and their role in oxidative stress, inflammation, and human diseases

Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are important drivers in the pathogenesis and progression of many chronic diseases, such as cancers of the breast, kidney, lung, and others, autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis), cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, atherosclerosis, arrhythmia), neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease), mental disorders (depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder), gastrointestinal disorders (inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer), and other disorders. With the increasing demand for less toxic and more tolerable therapies, flavonoids have the potential to effectively modulate the responsiveness to conventional therapy and radiotherapy. Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds found in fruits, vegetables, grains, and plant-derived beverages. Six of the twelve structurally different flavonoid subgroups are of dietary significance and include anthocyanidins (e.g. pelargonidin, cyanidin), flavan-3-ols (e.g. epicatechin, epigallocatechin), flavonols (e.g. quercetin, kaempferol), flavones (e.g. luteolin, baicalein), flavanones (e.g. hesperetin, naringenin), and isoflavones (daidzein, genistein). The health benefits of flavonoids are related to their structural characteristics, such as the number and position of hydroxyl groups and the presence of C2C3 double bonds, which predetermine their ability to chelate metal ions, terminate ROS (e.g. hydroxyl radicals formed by the Fenton reaction), and interact with biological targets to trigger a biological response. Based on these structural characteristics, flavonoids can exert both antioxidant or prooxidant properties, modulate the activity of ROS-scavenging enzymes and the expression and activation of proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)), induce apoptosis and autophagy, and target key signaling pathways, such as the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and Bcl-2 family of proteins. This review aims to briefly discuss the mutually interconnected aspects of oxidative and inflammatory mechanisms, such as lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, DNA damage, and the mechanism and resolution of inflammation. The major part of this article discusses the role of flavonoids in alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation, two common components of many human diseases. The results of epidemiological studies on flavonoids are also presented.

Anthocyanin and phenolic landscape of Syzygium cumini extracts via green extraction

This study determined the anthocyanin and phenolic profile of Syzygium cumini bioactive compounds, including anthocyanins and other flavonoids, alongside diverse phenolic compounds. The study optimized a green extraction technique (ultrasound-assisted enzymatic extraction (UAEE)) to obtain anthocyanin-rich extract from the fruit pulp of S. cumini using the pectinase enzyme. UHPLC-LC/MS, FTIR, and SEM were used to profile the secondary metabolites, functional groups, and surface morphology. Two major anthocyanins, cyanidin and malvidin, and twenty-three non-anthocyanins, including gallic acid, naringenin, myricetin, and kaempferol, were identified in the enzymatic extract of S. cumini. A central-composite design was used to optimize the extraction, analyzing the effects of enzyme concentration (0.01-0.03 %), pH (1-3), and ultrasonication time (5-15 min) on total anthocyanin content (438.75 ± 29.81 mg C3G/100 g db), determining the optimal points (0.01 %, 2 pH and 10 mins). The optimized extract was further investigated for total phenolic content and antioxidant activities. The study utilized an economical approach to effectively extract maximum anthocyanins from S. cumini fruit for their potential applications as a biocolorant in food products, simultaneously establishing promising health potential through available literature.

Advancing anthocyanin extraction: Optimising solvent, preservation, and microwave techniques for enhanced recovery from merlot grape marc

Grape marc, a by-product of winemaking, is a rich source of bioactive compounds, yet efficient extraction methods suitable for industrial application remain underexplored. This study presents an integrated, three-stage approach to optimise the extraction of anthocyanins, phenolics, and tannins from Merlot grape marc. In the first stage, 12 solvents were evaluated using conventional solvent extraction, with 50 % ethanol (EtOH) acidified with hydrochloric acid (HCl) achieving the highest anthocyanin recovery after eight extraction cycles (0.66 g/kg of grape marc), followed by formic acid (0.59 g/kg) and citric acid (0.58 g/kg) treatments. The second stage assessed drying methods across eight temperatures combined with a single extraction cycle using 50 % EtOH HCl, identifying 70 °C as the optimal heat-drying condition (1.23 g/kg total anthocyanins, 0.4 g/kg monomeric anthocyanins). Freeze-drying at -105 °C (TN105) with a prewash step (SRT105) further enhanced anthocyanin yields (2.24 g/kg total anthocyanins, 0.69 g/kg monomeric anthocyanins). In the final stage, microwave-assisted extraction significantly increased recovery, with SRT105-MW in 50 % EtOH HCl yielding 8.07 g/100 g total phenolics, 5.76 g/100 g tannins, 3.7 g/kg total anthocyanins, and 2.8 g/kg monomeric anthocyanins. This optimised method preserved anthocyanin composition, including malvidin- and peonidin-3-glucosides (585 and 560 mg/kg, respectively), along with cyanidin-, delphinidin-, and petunidin-3-glucosides (463, 360, and 257 mg/kg, respectively), as well as 66-99 mg/kg of acylated and 37-60 mg/kg of coumaroylated anthocyanins. Citric acid (50 % EtOH CA) demonstrated potential as a sustainable alternative, achieving ∼90 % of the anthocyanin yield of HCl treatments. These findings offer a practical, scalable framework for industrial anthocyanin recovery, advancing sustainable utilisation of grape marc.

Simple and semi-high throughput determination of total phenolic, anthocyanin, flavonoid content, and total antioxidant capacity of model and crop plants for cell physiological phenotyping

Plants biosynthesize a wide range of antioxidants capable of attenuating ROS-induced oxidative damage. There exist several in vitro methods to analyze antioxidants and total antioxidant capacity from different tissues and of various plant species. We have established a single, fast and cost-efficient extraction protocol combined with a semihigh throughput 96-well plate assay methods for determination of the level of the key antioxidants phenolics, anthocyanins and flavonoids in combination with the determination of total antioxidant capacity using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC). The method was optimized and verified with samples from different strawberry species and cultivars with known differences in the parameters measured. This method proved to be suitable for analyses of eight model and crop plants, and distinct antioxidant signatures were determined for the different tissues and organs analyzed, including leaf, root, fruit, spike, and tuber samples. The method was robust and was shown in two case studies to be a resource-efficient and fast experimental platform also to assess biotic and abiotic stress responses, notably including fungal infection and the impact of a progressive drought regime. Since method was adapted for a semi-high throughput 96-well assay format it is well-suited for integration of cell physiological phenotyping into a holistic phenomics approach for germplasm assessment and plant breeding screening. This analytical platform uses microplate spectrophotometer which proved to be suitable to determine the antioxidant contents and total antioxidant capacity signatures of various plant species and tissues with similar findings as reported in literature.

Phytochemical diversity and biological activities of Hypericum japonicum and Hypericum sampsonii: potential for natural product-based food applications

This study characterizes two species of the genus Hypericum to envisage their applicability as effective and versatile functional foods, dietary supplements, and food preservatives. A wide phenolic composition was found in both extracts, highlighting flanovoids for H. japonicum and xanthones for H. sampsonii. Moreover, anthocyanins were analyzed for the first time in the latter plant. Antioxidant capacity was highlighted by oxidative hemolysis inhibition assay (OxHLIA), where H. japonicum was more effective (lower EC50) than antioxidant Trolox (16.3 < 21.8 μg/mL). H. sampsonii extract inhibited lipid peroxidation in the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) method (EC50 = 17.05 μg/mL) compared to Trolox (EC50 = 5.8 μg/mL). H. japonicum antibacterial activity showed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.007 mg/mL, even lower than the control. These results indicate the bioactive potential of both extracts, as well as the importance of evaluating the food-related bioactive components of medicinal plants and the mechanisms involved in their bioactivities.

Native Brazilian fruits: postprandial glycemic control and carbohydrate-enzyme inhibition - insights from a randomized crossover clinical trial

Brazilian native fruits are excellent sources of polyphenols, especially berries, which are rich in anthocyanins. These compounds are associated with improvements in the insulin signaling pathway, reduced glucose absorption, and the inhibition of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of consuming native fruits, including grumixama (GM), Rio Grande cherry (RGc), and uvaia (UV), on the 2-hour postprandial glucose, plasma insulin, and inflammatory responses in healthy individuals. No study has evaluated the effects of these fruits on carbohydrate-digesting enzymes alongside glucose transporters. This was assessed using two methods: (i) post-bread glycemic response and (ii) post-glucose glycemic response. Healthy volunteers participated in a crossover study with control, consuming juices from GM, RGc, UV, or water, followed by white bread or a glucose solution. Capillary glucose, plasma insulin, and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels were measured. Additionally, the inhibitory activities of α-amylase and α-glucosidase by fruit extracts were evaluated in vitro. Molecular docking assessed the affinity of individual anthocyanins and flavonols. Cyanidin 3-glucoside was identified as the predominant flavonoid in GM and RGc, while quercetin 3-galactoside and rutin were the primary flavonols in GM and RGc, respectively. RGc juice significantly reduced 2-hour postprandial glucose levels, and juices rich in anthocyanins delayed the glucose peak to 45 minutes. Only GM juice delayed the insulin peak. Phenolic extracts from GM and RGc inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities in vitro. In silico analysis showed high-affinity binding of anthocyanins and flavonols found in the GM and RGc extracts to both enzymes. Therefore, GM and RGc may be considered beneficial foods and serve as additional nutritional supplements in managing postprandial hyperglycemia.

Unveiling novel features and phylogenomic assessment of indigenous Priestia megaterium AB-S79 using comparative genomics

Priestia megaterium strain AB-S79 isolated from active gold mine soil previously expressed in vitro heavy metal resistance and has a 5.7 Mb genome useful for biotechnological exploitation. This study used web-based bioinformatic resources to analyze P. megaterium AB-S79 genomic relatedness, decipher its secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), and better comprehend its taxa. Genes were highly conserved across the 14 P. megaterium genomes examined here. The pangenome reflected a total of 61,397 protein-coding genes, 59,745 homolog protein family hits, and 1,652 singleton protein family hits. There were also 7,735 protein families, including 1,653 singleton families and 6,082 homolog families. OrthoVenn3 comparison of AB-S79 protein sequences with 13 other P. megaterium strains, 7 other Priestia spp., and 6 other Bacillus spp. highlighted AB-S79's unique genomic and evolutionary trait. antiSMASH identified two key transcription factor binding site regulators in AB-S79's genome: zinc-responsive repressor (Zur) and antibiotic production activator (AbrC3), plus putative enzymes for the biosynthesis of terpenes and ranthipeptides. AB-S79 also harbors BGCs for two unique siderophores (synechobactins and schizokinens), phosphonate, dienelactone hydrolase family protein, and phenazine biosynthesis protein (phzF), which is significant for this study. Phosphonate particularly showed specificity for the P. megaterium sp. validating the effect of gene family expansion and contraction. P. megaterium AB-S79 looks to be a viable source for value-added compounds. Thus, this study contributes to the theoretical framework for the systematic metabolic and genetic exploitation of the P. megaterium sp., particularly the value-yielding strains.

IMPORTANCE

This study explores microbial natural product discovery using genome mining, focusing on Priestia megaterium. Key findings highlight the potential of P. megaterium, particularly strain AB-S79, for biotechnological applications. The research shows a limited output of P. megaterium genome sequences from Africa, emphasizing the importance of the native strain AB-S79. Additionally, the study underlines the strain's diverse metabolic capabilities, reinforcing its suitability as a model for microbial cell factories and its foundational role in future biotechnological exploitation.

Anthocyanins Delay D-Galactose-Induced Mouse Liver Aging by Regulating the NF-κB/IKK Signaling Pathway

Aging is an intricate pathophysiological phenotype. It is the result of the combined action of various inflammatory factors and cytokines. Aging is closely related to inflammation, apoptosis, tumors, and other diseases. Anthocyanins are a kind of natural flavonoid, mainly contained in plant fruits such as bilberry, grape, purple sweet potato, and so on. These flavonoids have antioxidation, antiaging, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been found that anthocyanins can effectively delay liver, ovary, and other organ aging. However, the biological mechanism by which anthocyanins alleviate aging phenotypes is still poorly understood. To simulate liver aging in mice, D-galactose was injected daily at 800 mg/kg to accelerate aging, and anthocyanins at 20 or 40 mg/kg were given as intervention treatments. The antiaging effect of anthocyanins was evaluated by body weight, inflammatory markers, and aging markers. Serum ALT and AST levels were measured, and liver histology was assessed using hematoxylin-eosin staining. In addition, we explored the molecular mechanism of anthocyanins delaying liver aging by detecting the expression levels of NF-κB/IKK signaling protein molecules. Our results indicate that anthocyanins can effectively delay mouse liver senescence induced by D-galactose. Analyses by Western blot demonstrated that anthocyanins inhibited the NF-κB/IKK signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting inflammation. In vitro, anthocyanins attenuate the D-galactose (D-gal)-induced aging in AML12 cells, as indicated by reduced aging-associated p21 and p16. Anthocyanins can similarly inhibit the NF-κB/IKK signal pathway in D-gal-induced aging in AML12 cells. Based on these findings, anthocyanins reduce liver aging in mice by regulating the NF-κB/IKK pathway.

Biodegradable Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVOH)-Based Films with Anthocyanin-Rich Extracts of Corozo (Bactris guineensis H.E. Moore) for Intelligent Packaging Design

Corozo (Bactris guineensis H.E. Moore) is a fruit from the Colombian Caribbean region valued for its thermostable anthocyanins, which are responsible for its characteristic reddish colour. This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical, structural, and functional properties for an intelligent and biodegradable film design based on a polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) matrix incorporating a Corozo extract rich in anthocyanins, with potential applications in food packaging. Anthocyanins were extracted from Corozo fruit and evaluated throughout a central composite design (CCD) for the effects of three variables-extraction time (t), temperature (T), and solvent concentration (CS). A quadratic model (R2 = 0.9586) demonstrated that the exocarp (peel) was the most effective source of anthocyanins. The best conditions were a 1:16.66 solid-to-solvent ratio at 50 °C for 75 min, yielding 38.65 mg EC3G/L. PVOH films were formulated using Corozo anthocyanin extract (CAE), which was characterised for the total anthocyanin content. Characterisation of the films revealed that the incorporation of Corozo-derived phenolic compounds did not cause significant (p < 0.05) changes in structural or water interaction properties compared to those of the control sample.

R2R3-MYB transcription factor CaMYB5 regulates anthocyanin biosynthesis in pepper fruits

Anthocyanins, are key polyphenolic secondary metabolites, such as delphinidin, cyanidin, rutin, and epicatechin that regulate plant coloration. Purple pepper fruits have high commercial value and industrial application potential due to their rich in accumulation of anthocyanins. This study identified and cloned an R2R3-MYB transcription factor, CaMYB5 from pepper fruits. Localization assay showed that CaMYB5 is located in the nucleus, while its expression profiles exhibited increasing trends during the pepper pericarp development. Functional analysis showed that transient silencing of CaMYB5 inhibited both delphinidin and cyanidin accumulation, and significantly reduced the expression levels of s anthocyanin biosynthesis structural genes in pepper fruits. In contrast, overexpression of CaMYB5 not only induced delphinidin and cyanidin accumulation, but also increased the expression levels of anthocyanin biosynthesis structural genes in fruits. DNA affinity purification sequencing, yeast one-hybrid, electrophoretic mobility shift, and dual luciferase assays indicated that CaMYB5 could bind to the CaPAL promoter and activate its expression. Overall, these results suggest that CaMYB5 is a critical upstream positive regulator of phenylpropanoid metabolism for enhanced anthocyanin accumulation in pepper fruits.

Enhanced Grätzel Solar Cells Using Carbon Nanodots and Natural Dye

Photoluminescent carbon nanodots have shown great potential in various scientific fields, with prominence in technological applications. Their low toxicity, affordability, and biocompatibility make them a promising alternative in developing next-generation solar cells. This study explored carbon nanodots (CNDs) as an alternative to traditional carbon allotropes, focusing on creating sustainable and environmentally friendly Grätzel-type solar cells using low-cost materials. The feasibility of CNDs, in conjunction with Leandra australis fruit dye as TiO2 sensitizers, was investigated, as well as the impact on the diffusion coefficient of I3 - in the electrolyte due to excess I2. The synergistic interaction between the dye and CNDs altered the material energy states, red-shifting the solution's light absorption region (Dye-CNDs). Improved V oc and J sc values were recorded, and as a result, a 5% increase in energy conversion efficiency (η) was calculated for the FTO/TiO2-Dye-CNDs photoanode cell compared to the control photoanode cell (FTO/TiO2-Dye). These results highlight the promising potential of CNDs as a low-cost alternative to significantly enhance the potential of Grätzel-type solar cells, paving the way for more sustainable energy solutions.

Dietary grape seed extract mitigated growth retardation, hormonal delay, and gastrointestinal toxicity induced by insecticide imidacloprid in Nile tilapia

Overusing the insecticide imidacloprid (IMD) in agriculture has led to its presence in water bodies, causing serious environmental issues and fish toxicity. This study explored the potential benefits of grape seed extract (GSE) in mitigating IMD-induced growth and hormonal and gastrointestinal toxicity in Nile tilapia. A total of 240 healthy juvenile tilapias Oreochromis niloticus (O. niloticus), weighing an average of 11.44 ± 2.01 g at 2 weeks of age, were divided equally into four groups, each with three replicates. The control group received no special treatment, while the second group was given a diet containing 2% GSE®. The third group was exposed to 1.5 µg IMD per liter of water. The fourth group was subjected to the same IMD exposure and fed a diet containing 2% GSE®. These treatments were administered continuously for 75 days. Growth indices, survival rate, biochemical parameters, and digestive enzymes were measured. In addition, the growth-related hormones, intestinal malondialdehyde (MDA), and catalase (CAT) were evaluated. Histological evaluations were conducted on the stomach, duodenum, ileum, and hepatopancreas, alongside body composition analysis. Exposure to IMD delayed growth, impaired serum biochemistry and digestive enzyme activity, altered body composition, obstructed hormonal responses, decreased CAT activity, and increased intestinal MDA. All tissues exhibited signs of degradation. Combining dietary GSE® with IMD improved the former parameters affected by IMD. In conclusion, research suggests that incorporating GSE® into the diet may help reduce the adverse effects of IMD exposure on Nile tilapia, presenting a promising opportunity to address the environmental impacts of insecticide contamination in aquatic ecosystems.

Transforming Agricultural Waste from Mediterranean Fruits into Renewable Materials and Products with a Circular and Digital Approach

The Mediterranean area is one of the major global producers of agricultural food. However, along the entire supply chain-from farming to food distribution and consumption-food waste represents a significant fraction. Additionally, plant waste residues generated during the cultivation of specific fruits and vegetables must also be considered. This heterogeneous biomass is a valuable source of bioactive compounds and materials that can be transformed into high-performance functional products. By analyzing technical and scientific literature, this review identifies extraction, composite production, and bioconversion as the main strategies for valorizing agricultural by-products and waste. The advantages of these approaches as well as efficiency gains through digitalization are discussed, along with their potential applications in the Mediterranean region to support new research activities and bioeconomic initiatives. Moreover, the review highlights the challenges and disadvantages associated with waste valorization, providing a critical comparison of different studies to offer a comprehensive perspective on the topic. The objective of this review is to evaluate the potential of agricultural waste valorization, identifying effective strategies while also considering their limitations, to contribute to the development of sustainable and innovative solutions in Mediterranean bioeconomy.

The Estimation of Phenolic Compounds, Sugars, and Acids of the Cultivar and Clones of Red-Fleshed Apples Based on Image Features

The genotypes of red-fleshed apples can vary in the intensity of red color and other fruit quality parameters. Crossing red-fleshed apple genotypes may lead to the development of new genotypes with increased health properties desired by apple processors. For fruit samples belonging to 5 genotypes, such as the cultivar 'Trinity' and four clones (90, 120, 156, and 158), image textures and the contents of sucrose, fructose, glucose, sorbitol, total sugars, L-ascorbic acid, malic acid, citric acid, and phenolic compounds were measured. Five groups of polyphenols, namely, flavanols, dihydrochalcones, anthocyanins, flavonols, and phenolic acids, were determined. The correlations between the chemical and image properties of apple samples were determined. The regression equations to estimate the chemical compounds content in red-fleshed apple samples based on image features were set. Generally, the results revealed that red-fleshed apple clones and a cultivar can statistically significantly differ in the content of phenolic compounds, sugars, and acids. Strong relationships between all examined chemical parameters with selected image texture features were observed. The highest correlation coefficients were found between citric acid with texture ZS5SH3Correlat (R = -0.999), total flavanols with RS5SH5Correlat (R = 0.999), quercetin-xyloside (group of flavonols) with XS5SH5Entropy (R = 0.999), and total sugars with GS5SH1SumVarnc (R = -0.998). The developed regression equations allowed for correct estimations of acid, sugar, and phenolic compound contents based on image textures with the coefficients of determination (R2) reaching 0.998 for citric acid, total flavanols, and quercetin-xyloside, and 0.996 for total sugars.

Polyphenol Intake in Elderly Patients: A Novel Approach to Counteract Colorectal Cancer Risk?

Colorectal cancer (CRC) accounts for approximately 10% of all cancers worldwide with an incidence of approximately 60% in patients older than 70 years. In the elderly, the definition of a better therapeutic strategy depends on several factors including the patient's frailty and comorbidity status, life expectancy, and chemotherapy tolerance. In older patients, adverse drug reactions require a reduction in the dose of treatment, resulting in worse oncologic outcomes. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have focused on the potential effects of polyphenols on human health and their use in cancer therapy. In this comprehensive review, we searched the major databases and summarized experimental data of the most important polyphenols in the CRC chemoprevention, with a focus on the molecular mechanisms involved and the antitumor effects in the elderly population. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that polyphenols exert chemopreventive activity by modulating cell signaling, resulting in the inhibition of cancer development or progression. However, the efficacy seen in experimental studies has not been confirmed in clinical trials, mainly due to their low bioavailability and non-toxic doses. Further research is needed to increase polyphenol bioavailability and reduce side effects in order to suggest their possible use to increase the efficacy of chemotherapeutic treatment.

Identification and characterization of a key gene controlling purple leaf coloration in non-heading Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa)

MAIN CONCLUSION

Chalcone isomerase (BraCHI, BraA03g059660.3C) is the candidate gene controlling purple leaf coloration in non-heading Chinese cabbage. A 10-bp deletion in its promoter enhances gene expression in purple plants, likely by disrupting MYB transcription factor binding, leading to anthocyanin accumulation. Leaf color is a critical trait influencing the commercial and nutritional value of leafy vegetables, with purple-leafed varieties prized for their high anthocyanin content. In this study, we investigated the genetic basis of purple leaf coloration in non-heading Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa). Using a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from a cross between purple-leafed S45P and green-leafed S45G lines, bulked segregant analysis sequencing (BSA-seq) and fine mapping were performed. The analysis identified BraP2, a locus on chromosome A03 associated with purple leaf coloration. Within the 65.31 kb candidate region, BraA03g059660.3C, encoding chalcone isomerase (CHI), was identified as the strongest candidate gene. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) revealed significantly higher expression of BraA03g059660.3C in purple-leafed S45P plants compared to green-leafed S45G plants. Further sequence analysis uncovered a 10-bp deletion in the promoter region of BraA03g059660.3C in S45P plants. This deletion likely disrupts a MYB transcription factor binding site, enhancing gene expression and promoting anthocyanin accumulation. Our findings demonstrate that BraA03g059660.3C plays a pivotal role in controlling purple leaf coloration in non-heading Chinese cabbage. This discovery advances the understanding of anthocyanin biosynthesis regulation and provides valuable genetic resources for breeding Brassica crops with improved esthetic and nutritional qualities.

Oral intake of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. increased c-Myc and caspase-3 gene expression and altered microbial population in colon of BALB/c mice induced to preneoplastic lesions

BACKGROUND

Colorectal carcinogenesis induces changes in the colon, such as the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF). This process is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, such as diet. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. is a considerable source of phenolic compounds, such as anthocyanins, and dietary fibers that may exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and prebiotic properties, attenuating the appearance of ACFs.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate whether supplementation with 5% or 10% of dehydrated calyces of Hibiscus sabadariffa (DHSC) influences the composition of the intestinal microbiota and the expression of genes related to colorectal carcinogenesis in BALB/c mice.

METHODS

The in vivo experiment lasted 12 weeks and the animals were divided into 3 experimental groups: the control group and the supplemented groups (5% or 10% DCHS) and induced pre-neoplastic lesions with the drug Dimethylhydrazine. Serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase markers, liver cytokine profile, gut microbiota composition and tumor protein 53, cellular myelocytomatosis oncogene, caspase-3 and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen gene expression were determined.

RESULTS

Supplementation with 5% or 10% of DCHS altered the composition of the intestinal microbiota, increasing the abundance of the families Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Clostridiaceae and of the genus Clostridum, important producers of butyrate. Furthermore, 5% and 10% DCHS supplementation increased caspase-3 and c-Myc expression, respectively, which may suggest apoptotic events.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, the effects of DHSC, rich in anthocyanins and dietary fiber, on the composition of the intestinal microbiota and on the expression of genes associated with cell apoptosis may contribute to reducing the risk of developing preneoplastic lesions.

Pectin-Based Active and Smart Film Packaging: A Comprehensive Review of Recent Advancements in Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Smart Colorimetric Systems for Enhanced Food Preservation

This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in biodegradable active and smart packaging utilizing pectin from various origins for food applications. It critically examines the challenges and limitations associated with these developments, initially focusing on the structural influences of pectin on the properties of packaging films. Methods such as spray drying, casting, and extrusion are detailed for manufacturing pectin films, highlighting their impact on film characteristics. In discussing active pectin films, the review emphasizes the effectiveness of incorporating essential oils, plant extracts, and nanoparticles to enhance mechanical strength, moisture barrier properties, and resistance to oxidation and microbial growth. Smart biodegradable packaging is a significant research area, particularly in monitoring food freshness. The integration of natural colorants such as anthocyanins, betacyanins, and curcumin into these systems is discussed for their ability to detect spoilage in meat and seafood products. The review details the specific mechanisms through which these colorants interact with food components and environmental factors to provide visible freshness indicators for consumers. It underscores the potential of these technologies to fulfill sustainability goals by providing eco-friendly substitutes for traditional plastic packaging.

Synthesis and characterization of anthocyanin-loaded bovine serum albumin nanoparticles: unveiling the encapsulation mechanisms with computational insights

BACKGROUND

Black rice anthocyanins (BRA) offer significant health benefits but are limited in application due to their low bioavailability. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) nanoparticles (NPs) have been shown to effectively enhance the stability of encapsulated BRA. However, the mechanism of BRA-BSA NP formation and their molecular interactions remain unclear. This study prepared and characterized BRA-BSA NPs and investigated the formation mechanisms using computational simulations.

RESULTS

The optimized BRA-BSA NPs had a particle size of 128.37 ± 4.10 nm, a zeta potential of -18.93 ± 0.32 mV and an encapsulation efficiency of 81.10 ± 0.08%. Characterization showed that the NPs were stabilized through hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds. BRA-BSA NPs exhibited a slow release in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Molecular dynamics simulations, both all-atom and coarse-grained, revealed that anthocyanins bound to four primary sites on the BSA surface through hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces. Furthermore, ethanol was shown to modulate the dissociation of amino acids, promoting BSA aggregation and self-assembly into NPs.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate that BSA NPs loaded with BRA serve as effective carriers with high encapsulation efficiency. Molecular dynamics simulations elucidated the molecular basis of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside-BSA interactions, as well as the self-assembly process of BSA. This study therefore provides valuable insights for developing BSA-based delivery systems for BRA, advancing the fields of bioactive encapsulation of nutraceuticals. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

Regulation of adipokine and batokine secretion by dietary flavonoids, as a prospective therapeutic approach for obesity and its metabolic complications

Traditionally recognised as the energy reservoir and main site of adaptive thermogenesis, white and brown adipose tissues are complex endocrine organs regulating systemic energy metabolism via the secretion of bioactive molecules, termed "adipokines" and "batokines", respectively. Due to its significant role in regulating whole-body energy metabolism and other physiological processes, adipose tissue has been increasingly explored as a feasible therapeutic target for obesity. Flavonoids are one of the most significant plant polyphenolic compounds holding a great potential as therapeutic agents for combating obesity. However, understanding their mechanisms of action remains largely insufficient to formulate therapeutic theories. This review critically discusses scientific evidence highlighting the role of flavonoids in ameliorating obesity-related metabolic complications, including adipose tissue dysfunction, inflammation, insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis, and cardiovascular comorbidities in part by modulating the release of adipokines and batokines. Further discussion advocates for the use of therapeutics targeting these bioactive molecules as a potential avenue for developing effective treatment for obesity and its adverse metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.

Prevention of motor relapses and associated trigeminal pain in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by reducing neuroinflammation with a purple corn extract enriched in anthocyanins

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the leading cause of disability in young adults, with about 2.5-3 million cases currently diagnosed. Pain is a common comorbid symptom of MS, and develops independently from motor impairments. Currently utilized drugs bear severe side effects; thus, new therapeutic strategies are needed, and nutraceutical supplements represent innovative and safe opportunities. We have selected a variety of anthocyanin-enriched purple corn, from which a water-soluble extract (Red extract) has been obtained and administered to male rats exposed to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Animals developed relapsing-remitting motor symptoms, accompanied by early onset trigeminal allodynia. The preventive administration of Red extract facilitated the remission of motor symptoms, prevented the development of relapses, and delayed and reduced the development of EAE-associated trigeminal pain. An overall inhibition of neuroinflammation, blunted microgliosis and astrogliosis, activation of autophagy and reduced immune cell infiltration in the brainstem, cervical and lumbar spinal cord were observed. Yellow corn extract, lacking anthocyanins, had no behavioral effects, despite a limited anti-inflammatory action. Therapeutic Red extract administration did not affect EAE motor symptoms, only partially reduced the development of trigeminal pain but maintained its ability to reduce neuroinflammation and glial cell activation and to promote autophagy. Overall, our data suggest that a nutraceutical supplement from anthocyanin-enriched purple corn represents an interesting option to limit the development of motor relapses and the chronicization of multiple sclerosis-associated pain, through the mitigation of neuroinflammation, of the infiltration of immune cells and the promotion of autophagy.

Effects of Detox Juices on Color Stability and Surface Roughness of Universal Chromatic Resin Composites

This study investigated the color stability and surface roughness of universal chromatic resin-based composites (RBCs) after immersion in detox juices. One hundred seventy-six disc-shaped specimens (8 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness) were prepared using four universal chromatic RBCs: NeoSpectra ST (NS), Omnichroma (OM), Charisma Topaz One (CO), and G-ænial Universal Injectable (GI). Specimens of each material were randomly divided into four subgroups (n=11) and immersed in either the assigned detox juices (red, green, or yellow) or distilled water (control). Color and surface roughness measurements were taken at baseline, 15 and 30 days of immersion. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to evaluate the surface topography of the composites. The color change [CIEDE2000 (ΔE00)] and surface roughness (Ra) values were analyzed using generalized linear models and multiple comparison tests with Bonferroni correction. Correlation analysis was performed using Spearman rank correlation test. The main variable effects of "composite and immersion media" were significant for both color change and surface roughness parameters (p<0.001). Additionally, the main effect of the "evaluation period" was significant only for surface roughness (p=0.001). The highest discoloration occurred in the GI group immersed in a red beverage, while the CO group immersed in yellow beverage had the highest Ra values. In SEM analysis, OM demonstrated a more homogeneous filler structure with clearly visible nano-spherical fillers and nanoclusters, contributing to its superior smoothness. Conversely, a significant increase in rough areas was observed, especially in NS exposed to the green beverage and CO exposed to the yellow beverage, after 30 days. While the immersion of resin composites in detox juices induced an acceptable color alteration except for OM and GI groups immersed in the red beverage, all tested materials exhibited clinically admissible results regarding surface roughness.

Function of Anthocyanin and Chlorophyll Metabolic Pathways in the Floral Sepals Color Formation in Different Hydrangea Cultivars

Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) is distinguished by having sepals instead of real petals, a trait that facilitates color diversity. Floral color is largely predetermined by structural genes linked to anthocyanin production, but the genetic factors determining floral hue in this non-model plant remain unclear. Anthocyanin metabolites, transcriptome, and the CIEL*a*b* hue system were employed to elucidate the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of floral color formation in three hydrangea cultivars: 'DB' (deep blue), 'LB' (light blue), and 'GB' (green blue). UPLC-MS/MS identified 47 metabolites, with delphinidin, cyanidin, malvidin, petunidin, pelargonidin, and peonidin being prominent. Delphinidins were 90% of the primary component in 'DB'. The dataset identifies 51 and 31 DEGs associated with anthocyanin, flavonoid, and chlorophyll biosynthesis, with CHS, CHI, F3H, F3'5'H, DFR, ANS, BZ1, and 3AT displaying the highest expression in 'DB'. Notably, DFR (cluster-46471.3) exhibits high expression in 'DB' while being down-regulated in 'LB' and 'GB', correlating with higher anthocyanin levels in floral pigmentation. Comparative analyses of 'LB' vs. 'DB', 'DB' vs. 'GB', and 'LB' vs. 'GB' revealed 460, 490, and 444 differentially expressed TFs, respectively. WRKY, ERF, bHLH, NAC, and AP2/ERF showed the highest expression in 'DB', aligning with the color formation and key anthocyanin biosynthesis-related gene expression. The findings reveal the molecular mechanisms behind floral pigmentation variations and lay the groundwork for future hydrangea breeding programs.

Evaluation of the effect of red cabbage waste on performance, egg quality, and yolk oxidative stability of laying Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix Japonica)

This study investigates the effects of red cabbage waste (RCW) as a dietary supplement on the performance, egg quality, and oxidative stability of yolk in laying Japanese quails. Given its rich phenolic content, RCW has been investigated as a natural feed additive to reduce food waste and enhance poultry diets. In a six-week trial, 120 quails were divided into 4 groups with 5 replicates and fed diets with 0.0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0% RCW. Performance parameters, internal and external egg quality, and antioxidant status were measured. RCW supplementation had no significant impact on overall quail performance. Quails fed with 0.5% RCW showed notable improvements in internal egg quality, especially in the albumen index, Haugh unit, and eggshell thickness. Additionally, incorporating 0.5% RCW into the diet improved the yolk's antioxidant activity, as evidenced by reduced MDA levels. However, other egg quality traits, including the antioxidant capacity of the yolk, had deteriorated with concentrations above 0.5%, indicating that a moderate inclusion of 0.5% RCW is the most favourable option. The findings underscore that RCW could be sustainably used to improve egg quality without compromising performance, while managing food waste, presenting a potential circular economy solution. Nevertheless, further research is encouraged to optimize RCW levels and fully understand its benefits in poultry feed.

Anthocyanins and Anthocyanidins in the Management of Osteoarthritis: A Scoping Review of Current Evidence

Background/Objectives: The consumption of food rich in anthocyanins, a natural pigment found in plants, has been associated with improved joint health. However, systematic efforts to summarise the effects of anthocyanins and their deglycosylated forms, anthocyanidins, in managing osteoarthritis (OA) are lacking. This scoping review aims to comprehensively summarise the current evidence regarding the role of anthocyanins and anthocyanidins in OA management and highlights potential research areas. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science in January 2025 to look for primary studies published in English, with the main objective of investigating the chondroprotective effects of anthocyanins and anthocyanidins, regardless of their study designs. Results: The seven included studies showed that anthocyanins and anthocyanidins suppressed the activation of inflammatory signalling, upregulated sirtuin-6 (cyanidin only), and autophagy (delphinidin only) in chondrocytes challenged with various stimuli (interleukin-1β, oxidative stress, or advanced glycation products). Anthocyanins also preserved cartilage integrity and increased the pain threshold in animal models of OA. No clinical trial was found in this field, suggesting a translation gap. Conclusions: In conclusion, anthocyanins and anthocyanidins are potential chondroprotective agents, but more investigations are required to overcome the gap in clinical translation.

The Role of Elderberry Hydrolate as a Therapeutic Agent in Palliative Care

Elderberry hydrolate, derived from the berries of Sambucus nigra, has gained attention for its therapeutic properties, particularly in skincare. This review explores its potential applications in palliative care, where patients often experience compromised skin health due to illness or treatment. The bioactive compounds in elderberry hydrolate, including phenylacetaldehyde, 2-acetyl-pyrrole, n-hexanal, furfural, and (E)-beta-damascenone, contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and skin-healing effects. These properties make it a promising option for addressing common dermatological issues in palliative care, such as irritation, dryness, pruritus, and inflammation. For example, phenylacetaldehyde's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions help soothe irritated skin, while 2-acetyl-pyrrole's antioxidant effects protect sensitive skin from oxidative stress. Additionally, n-hexanal's antimicrobial properties reduce infection risks and furfural aids in skin regeneration. (E)-beta-damascenone's antioxidant effects help maintain skin health and prevent further damage. Despite these promising effects, barriers to the widespread implementation of elderberry hydrolate in palliative care exist, including cost, accessibility, patient sensitivities, and regulatory challenges. Future research focusing on standardized chemical profiling, clinical trials, and addressing these practical concerns will be crucial for integrating elderberry hydrolate into palliative care regimens. This review highlights its potential as a natural, supportive therapy for enhancing patient comfort and quality of life in palliative care settings.

Preparation and Characterization of Antioxidative and pH-Sensitive Films Based on κ-Carrageenan/Carboxymethyl Cellulose Blended with Purple Cabbage Anthocyanin for Monitoring Hairtail Freshness

Developing pH-sensitive materials for real-time freshness monitoring is critical for ensuring seafood safety. In this study, pH-responsive indicator films were prepared by incorporating purple cabbage anthocyanin (PCA) into a κ-carrageenan/carboxymethyl cellulose (CA/CMC) matrix via solution casting, with PCA concentrations of 2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5%, and 10% (w/w). The films exhibited remarkable pH sensitivity, with distinct color changes across pH 2.0-11.0. Incorporating PCA enhanced film crystallinity, antioxidant properties, and opacity while reducing water vapor transmission (WVP). High PCA content resulted in rougher morphology, lowering tensile strength (TS) but improving elongation at break (EB). The indicator film had good environmental stability, and the color difference was not visible after 10 days in the dark and 4 °C conditions. The CA/CMC/PCA-10% film showed the most pronounced pH-responsive color changes, transitioning from purple to green as hairtail freshness deteriorated. This innovative approach highlights the potential of CA/CMC/PCA films as reliable, eco-friendly indicators for real-time seafood freshness monitoring, offering significant advancements in smart packaging technology.

Optimizing Ethanol-Water Cosolvent Systems for Green Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction of Muscadine Grape Pomace Polyphenols

This study evaluated the ethanol-water modified (50%, v/v) supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) for the extraction of polyphenols from muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia Michgx.) pomace and compared with conventional solvent extractions (ethanol-water and HCl-methanol). The process was optimized with a central composite response surface design consisting of three levels of three independent variables: pressure (20-40 MPa), temperature (40-60 °C), and cosolvent concentration (5-15%) to maximize three responses: total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and resveratrol yields. The optimal conditions were determined as 20 MPa, 60 °C, and 15% cosolvent concentration with TPC, TFC, and resveratrol yields of 2491 mg/100 g, 674 mg/100 g, and 1.07 mg/100 g, respectively. The surface plots indicated that a 15% cosolvent concentration maximized extraction efficiency, producing red-brown colored extracts. In contrast, a 5% cosolvent resulted in poor extractions, yielding yellow-green extracts under all conditions. The yields increased with higher temperatures (i.e., 60 °C) and lower pressures (i.e., 20 MPa). TPC and TFC obtained through cosolvent-modified SC-CO2 were similar to those obtained through conventional extractions. Moreover, the resveratrol yield was lower than the HCl-methanol extraction, even though it was not different from any ethanol-water extractions at any solvent-to-solute ratios. The analysis of antioxidants indicated that the ABTS values of the cosolvent-modified SC-CO2 extract were lower than those of the HCl-methanol extract. However, there were no significant differences in the DPPH values between the two extracts. Thus, this study optimized the sustainable technology of SC-CO2 extraction by employing only food-grade cosolvents-ethanol and water-as a more environmentally friendly method for isolating polyphenols from the underutilized waste product of muscadine grape pomace utilizing statistical methodologies in the extraction process.

Flavonoids and Flavonoid-Based Nanopharmaceuticals as Promising Therapeutic Strategies for Colorectal Cancer-An Updated Literature Review

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents one of the most serious health issues and the third most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. However, the treatment options for CRC are associated with adverse reactions, and in some cases, resistance can develop. Flavonoids have emerged as promising alternatives for CRC prevention and therapy due to their multitude of biological properties and ability to target distinct processes involved in CRC pathogenesis. Their innate disadvantageous properties (e.g., low solubility and stability, reduced bioavailability, and lack of tumor specificity) have delayed the potential inclusion of flavonoids in CRC treatment regimens but have hastened the design of nanopharmaceuticals comprising a flavonoid agent entrapped in a nanosized delivery platform that not only counteract these inconveniences but also provide an augmented therapeutic effect and an elevated safety profile by conferring a targeted action. Starting with a brief presentation of the pathological features of CRC and an overview of flavonoid classes, the present study comprehensively reviews the anti-CRC activity of different flavonoids from a mechanistic perspective while also portraying the latest discoveries made in the area of flavonoid-containing nanocarriers that have proved efficient in CRC management. This review concludes by showcasing future perspectives for the advancement of flavonoids and flavonoid-based nanopharmaceuticals in CRC research.

A Comprehensive Antioxidant and Nutritional Profiling of Brassicaceae Microgreens

Microgreens are gaining prominence as nutrient-dense foods with health-promoting activities while aligning with smart agriculture and functional food trends. They are rich in numerous bioactive compounds like phenolics, ascorbic acid, and carotenoids, which act as antioxidants, while also causing multiple other biological activities. Using advanced statistical methods, this study investigated Brassicaceae microgreens, identifying kale and Sango radish as standout varieties. Both contained 16 amino acids, with potassium and calcium as dominant minerals. Sugar and protein contents ranged from 4.29 to 4.66% and 40.27 to 43.90%, respectively. Kale exhibited higher carotenoid levels, particularly lutein (996.36 mg/100 g) and beta-carotene (574.15 mg/100 g). In comparison, Sango radish excelled in glucose metabolism (α-glucosidase inhibition: 58%) and antioxidant activities (DPPH•: 7.92 mmol TE/100 g, ABTS•+: 43.47 mmol TE/100 g). Both showed antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Kale demonstrated stronger anti-inflammatory effects, while Sango radish showed antiproliferative potential. These results, supported by PCA and correlation analysis, underscore the dual role of these microgreens as nutritious and therapeutic food additives, addressing oxidative stress, inflammation, and microbial threats.

Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Jointly Explore the Mechanism of Pod Color Variation in Purple Pod Pea

Although the pod color was one of the seven characteristics Mendel studied in peas, the mechanism of color variation in peas with purple pods has not been reported. This study systemically analyzed the difference between two pea accessions with green pods (GPs) and purple pods (PPs) at two pod developmental stages from the metabolome and transcriptome levels, aiming to preliminarily explore the mechanism and of color variation in PPs and screen out the candidate genes. A total of 180 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) belonged to seven flavonoid subgroups and 23 flavonoid-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from the analysis of the KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway enrichment, respectively. Among the 180 flavonoid metabolites, ten anthocyanin compounds, which were the principal pigments in PPs and might be the major reason for the purple color formation, were significantly up-accumulated in both of the different pod development stages of PPs. A transcriptome analysis revealed that eight genes encoding enzymes (C4H, CHI, F3H, F3'H, F3'5'H, DFR, ANS, and FLS) involved in the flavonoid synthesis pathway were significantly upregulated in PPs and finally resulted in the significant accumulation of flavonoid and anthocyanin metabolites. The joint analysis of two omics and a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) also screened out that the WD-40 protein-encoding gene, one WRKY and three MYB transcription factor genes exhibited significant upregulation in PPs, and highly correlated with several structural genes in flavonoid synthesis pathways, indicating that these genes are involved in the regulation of pod color formation in PPs. Overall, the results of this study first explored the mechanism underlying the purple color variation between PPs and GPs, and then preliminarily screened out some candidate genes responsible for the pod color formation in PPs.

Brassica vegetables-an undervalued nutritional goldmine

The genus Brassica includes six species and over 15 types of vegetables that are widely cultivated and consumed globally. This group of vegetables is rich in bioactive compounds, including glucosinolates, vitamins (such as vitamin C, folate, tocopherol, and phylloquinone), carotenoids, phenols, and minerals, which are crucial for enriching diets and maintaining human health. However, the full extent of these phytonutrients and their significant health benefits remain to be fully elucidated. This review highlights the nutrient compositions and health advantages of Brassica vegetables and discusses the impacts of various processing methods on their nutritional value. Additionally, we discuss potential strategies for enhancing the nutrition of Brassica crops through agronomic biofortification, conventional breeding, and biotechnological or metabolic engineering approaches. This review lays the foundation for the nutritional improvement of Brassica crops.

The candidate gene SibHLHA regulates anthocyanin-driven purple pigmentation in Sesamum indicum flowers

Anthocyanins not only serve as critical pigments determining floral hues but also play essential roles in attracting insects for pollination, feeding animals and mitigating abiotic stress. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of flower color in sesame has not yet been reported. In this study, an F2 population was constructed by crossing 'Ganzhi 9' (purple-flowered) with 'BS377' (white-flowered). Genetic analysis revealed that purple flower is controlled by a single locus named as SiFC (Sesamum indicum flower color). Using the BSA-seq approach, SiFC was preliminarily identified on chromosome 6, which was further mapped to a 473 kb interval using Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP) marker analysis. Moreover, functional annotation, expression profiling, and sequence analyses confirmed that the SibHLHA (Sesame10992) was the most likely candidate gene for SiFC. In addition, SibHLHA, highly homologous to AtTT8 (a key regulator in the anthocyanin synthesis pathway), was found to interact with WER-like or TTG1 proteins, enhancing anthocyanin accumulation in tobacco leaves. Furthermore, an SNP in the second exon of Sibhlha (BS377 variant) was found to alter the encoding amino acids, which affected Sibhlha binding to MYB protein and showed low anthocyanin in tobacco leaves compared with SibHLHA binding with WER-like or TTG1 proteins. These findings not only deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanisms controlling sesame corolla color, but also provide valuable insights for developing ornamental and consumable sesame varieties.

The legacy of endophytes for the formation of bioactive agents, pigments, biofertilizers, nanoparticles and bioremediation of environment

Endophytes have significant prospects for applications beyond their existing utilization in agriculture and the natural sciences. They form an endosymbiotic relationship with plants by colonizing the root tissues without detrimental effects. These endophytes comprise several microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. They act as repositories of compounds of medicinal importance. They are considered sources of pigments besides synthetic dyes and assist with soil fertility and plant growth as bio-fertilizers. They also have immense potential for advanced technology using endophyte-synthesized nanoparticles. In assisting bioremediation, they facilitate detoxification of pollutants in all spheres of the environment. Studies on the potential of endophytic microbes in drug discovery and biotic stress management are underway. In this review, published databases on endophytes and their diverse roles and applications in various fields, such as bio-fertilizers and nanoparticles, as well as bioremediation, are critically discussed while exploring unanswered questions. In addition, future perspectives on endosymbiotic microorganisms and their prospective use in plants, environmental management, and medicine are discussed in this review.

Investigation of Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity of Five Red Flower Extracts

The presence of bioactive compounds in plants with red flowers constitutes a valuable natural resource for the food, pharmaceutical, and medical industries. This paper aims to highlight these characteristics to facilitate the selection of extracts according to market needs. The analyzed parameters can provide valuable insights into the compositional variability of the five red flower plants, as new sources of bioactive compounds and natural antioxidants of plant origin. Five plants with red flowers (Magnolia liliiflora, Chrysanthemum morifolium, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Petunia grandiflora, Rosa hybrida L.) were selected and investigated regarding their polyphenol concentration, total anthocyanins, antioxidant activity, phenolic compounds, and antimicrobial activity. Total polyphenols were found in concentrations ranging from 75.17 ± 0.16 mgGAE/g (C. morifolium) to 107.49 ± 0.19 mgGAE/g (R. hybrida L.), and total anthocyanins between 14.99 ± 0.13 mg Cy-3-Glu/g and 21.66 ± 0.18 mg Cy-3-Glu/g. The antioxidant activity DPPH/IC50 mg/mL for the extract from R. hybrida L. flowers reached a value of 29.35 ± 0.17 mg/g, with ABTS and FRAP achieving maximum values of 49.89 ± 0.24 mmol TE/g and 48.68 ± 0.23 mmol TE/g, respectively. The antibacterial activity was particularly evident against strains commonly encountered in human pathology, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with reduced or no impact on strains of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Proteus mirabilis. The results demonstrated that the extracts from the selected, red-flowered plants contain valuable biologically active compounds in generous quantities, thus recommending their use in the food, pharmaceutical, and medical sectors.

Versatility of Caenorhabditis elegans as a Model Organism for Evaluating Foodborne Neurotoxins and Food Bioactive Compounds in Nutritional Neuroscience

Epidemiological evidence has shown that the regular ingestion of vegetables and fruits is associated with reduced risk of developing chronic diseases. The introduction of the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, and refinement) principle into animal experiments has led to the use of valid, cost-effective, and efficient alternative and complementary invertebrate animal models which are simpler and lower in the phylogenetic hierarchy. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), a nematode with a much simpler anatomy and physiology compared to mammals, share similarities with humans at the cellular and molecular levels, thus making it a valid model organism in neurotoxicology. This review explores the versatility of C. elegans in elucidating the neuroprotective mechanisms elicited by food bioactive compounds against neurotoxic effects of food- and environmental-related contaminants. Several signaling pathways linked to the molecular basis of neuroprotection exerted by bioactive compounds in chemically induced or transgenic C. elegans models of neurodegenerative diseases are also discussed. Specifically, the modulatory effects of bioactive compounds on the DAF-16/FoxO and SKN-1/Nrf2 signaling pathways, stress resistance- and autophagy-related genes, and antioxidant defense enzyme activities were highlighted. Altogether, C. elegans represent a valuable model in nutritional neuroscience for the identification of promising neuroprotective agents and neurotherapeutic targets which could help in overcoming the limitations of current therapeutic agents for neurotoxicity and neurodegenerative diseases.

Comprehensive genomic analysis of SmbHLH genes and the role of SmbHLH93 in eggplant anthocyanin biosynthesis

KEY MESSAGE

SmbHLH93can activate the expression of SmCHS, SmANS, SmDFR and SmF3H.Overexpression of SmbHLH93promotes anthocyanin biosynthesis. SmbHLH93can interact with SmMYB1 to promote anthocyanin accumulation. As an outstanding source of anthocyanins, eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is extremely beneficial for human health. In the process of anthocyanin biosynthesis in eggplant, the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor family plays a crucial role. However, the bHLH gene family is extensive, making it difficult to systematically screen and analyze their functions using conventional methods. We studied the phylogeny, gene structure, conserved motifs, promoter element, and chromosomal location of the 166 SmbHLH genes in the recently released eggplant genome. Through the analysis of transcriptomic data of eggplant peel treated with light, it was found that SmbHLH93 was the most responsive to light among those of unknown function. Additionally, it was discovered that SmbHLH93 plays a positive regulatory role in anthocyanin synthesis through dual-luciferase reporter assay(dual-LUC) and genetic transformation in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Furthermore, experiments involving yeast two-hybrid (Y2H), luciferase complementation assay (Split-LUC), and tobacco transient transformation demonstrated that SmbHLH93 has the ability to interact with SmMYB1 in order to enhance anthocyanin accumulation. This study will serve as a foundation for exploring the role of SmbHLH transcription factors in anthocyanin biosynthesis in the future.

Preliminary Effects of American Elderberry Juice on Cognitive Functioning in Mild Cognitive Impairment Patients: A Secondary Analysis of Cognitive Composite Scores in a Randomized Clinical Trial

Previous work examining dietary interventions high in polyphenols (i.e., antioxidant/anti-inflammatory properties) has shown cognitive benefits. In a prior investigation examining American elderberry juice consumption with inflammation and cognition in mild cognitive impairment (MCI), we found a trend toward better visuospatial construct flexibility in MCI patients who consumed elderberry relative to the placebo control. This study aims to further examine the preliminary effects of American elderberry juice on the cognitive domains in MCI using cognitive composite scores. MCI patients (N = 24; Mage = 76.33 ± 6.95) received elderberry (n = 11) or placebo (n = 13) juice for 6 months and completed cognitive tasks targeting memory, visuospatial ability, and cognitive flexibility at the baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. For the composite z-scores calculated for global cognition and each domain, multilevel models and Kenward-Roger post hoc tests examined the interaction between condition (elderberry/placebo) and time (baseline/3 months/6 months). The findings showed a significant interaction between global cognitive flexibility (p = 0.049) and elderberry juice (not the placebo) trending toward a significant decrease (better) in composite cognitive flexibility latency scores from the baseline (M = 29.89, SE = 18.12) to 6 months (M = 18.57, SE = 9.68). Preliminary findings suggest elderberry juice may provide overall cognitive flexibility benefits in MCI. These promising results provide support for prospective investigations examining the potential underlying mechanisms of elderberries that may provide cognitive benefits in MCI, possibly due to anti-inflammatory effects.

Regulation of Flavonoid Biosynthesis by the MYB-bHLH-WDR (MBW) Complex in Plants and Its Specific Features in Cereals

Flavonoids are a large group of secondary metabolites, which are responsible for pigmentation, signaling, protection from unfavorable environmental conditions, and other important functions, as well as providing numerous benefits for human health. Various stages of flavonoid biosynthesis are subject to complex regulation by three groups of transcription regulators-MYC-like bHLH, R2R3-MYB and WDR which form the MBW regulatory complex. We attempt to cover the main aspects of this intriguing regulatory system in plants, as well as to summarize information on their distinctive features in cereals. Published data revealed the following perspectives for further research: (1) In cereals, a large number of paralogs of MYC and MYB transcription factors are present, and their diversification has led to spatial and biochemical specialization, providing an opportunity to fine-tune the distribution and composition of flavonoid compounds; (2) Regulatory systems formed by MBW proteins in cereals possess distinctive features that are not yet fully understood and require further investigation; (3) Non-classical MB-EMSY-like complexes, WDR-independent MB complexes, and solely acting R2R3-MYB transcription factors are of particular interest for studying unique regulatory mechanisms in plants. More comprehensive understanding of flavonoid biosynthesis regulation will allow us to develop cereal varieties with the required flavonoid content and spatial distribution.

Identification and characteristics of differentially expressed genes under UV-B stress in Gossypium hirsutum

Objective

This study aimed to screen the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of Gossypium hirsutum under UV-B stress and identify the significant pathways based on gene enrichment analysis results.

Methods

In this study, the allotetraploid crop G. hirsutum was used to examine changes in various physiological indexes under UV-B stress, and screened out all DEGs under UV-B stress (16 kJ m-2 d-1) based on six leaf transcriptomes. The main enrichment pathways of DEGs were analyzed according to gene annotation. Finally, we predicted the regulatory genes of phenylpropanoid pathway under UV-B stress by co-expression network analysis, and selected GhMYB4 for verification.

Results

Gene annotation analysis revealed that DEGs were predominantly enriched in pathways related to photosynthesis and secondary metabolism. Further analysis revealed that UV-B stress impaired photosynthesis mainly by damaging photosystem II (PSII) and inhibiting electron transport, whereas G. hirsutum responded to UV-B stress by synthesizing secondary metabolites such as anthocyanins and lignin. We selected the regulatory genes GhMYB4 for verification. It was found to be an anthocyanin negative regulator in response to UV-B stress.

Conclusions

UV-B stress impaired photosynthesis mainly by damaging photosystem II (PSII) and inhibiting electron transport, whereas G. hirsutum responded to UV-B stress by synthesizing secondary metabolites such as anthocyanins and lignin.

Comprehensive comparison of two colour varieties of Perillae folium by UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS analysis combining with feature-based molecular networking

Perillae Folium (PF), the leaf of Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt is extensively used as a culinary vegetable and medicinal herb in many countries. Purple PF (P. frutescens var. arguta) and green PF (P. frutescens var. frutescens) are two of the main varieties. In this study, UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS assisted with feature-based molecular networking (FBMN) was applied for chemical characterization. In total, 82 metabolites, mainly phenolic acid derivatives were identified from PF. With the help of FBMN, five organic acid glucosides together with three N-phenylpropenoyl-L-amino acids (NPAs) were identified in PF for the first time. Multivariate statistical methods were utilized for comprehensive comparison of purple and green PF profiles. 12 compounds with their relative contents varied significantly between purple and green PF were screened out. Overall, the present study offers valuable insights for chemical elucidation of PF which would be helpful for comprehensive utilization of PF resource.

Innovative approaches to harnessing natural pigments from food waste and by-products for eco-friendly food coloring

With unprecedented growth in the world population, the demand for food has risen drastically leading to increased agricultural production. One promising avenue is recovery of value-added pigments from food waste which has been gaining global attention. This review focuses on sustainable strategies for extracting pigments, examining the factors that influence extraction, their applications, and consumer acceptability. The significant findings of the study state the efficiency of pigment extraction through innovative extraction techniques rather than following conventional methods that are time-consuming, and unsustainable. In addition to their vibrant colors, these pigments provide functional benefits such as antioxidant properties, extended shelf life and improved food quality. Societal acceptance of pigments derived from food waste is positively driven by environmental awareness and sustainability. The study concludes by highlighting the stability challenges associated with various natural pigments, emphasizing the need for tailored stabilization methods to ensure long-term stability and effective utilization in food matrices.

Comparison of Antioxidant Properties of Fruit from Some Cultivated Varieties and Hybrids of Rubus idaeus and Rubus occidentalis

The aim of this study was to compare the antioxidant potential in the fruits of different hybrids of Rubus idaeus and Rubus occidentalis (four hybrids) against the fruit of known cultivars of both species (R. idaeus-three cultivars; R. occidentalis-five cultivars) and, using chemometric analysis, to select factors affecting the level of polyphenols and antioxidant properties. Antioxidant activity was determined using the ABTS, DPPH and FRAP tests. Chemometric analysis enabled the separation of R. idaeus and R. occidentalis cultivars and classified the hybrid R. idaeus/R. occidentalis R1314701 as belonging to the R. occidentalis species. Moreover, two hybrids, Rubus occidentalis/Rubus idaeus R1613411 and R. idaeus/R. occidentalis R1613409, can be classified as a purple raspberry. Crossbreeding species/cultivars of the Rubus genus may result in an increased content of anthocyanins, but on the other hand, it may lead to a reduction in free radical scavenging activity in the ABTS and DPPH. Spearman's correlations confirm the correlations between the total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity in the DPPH, ABTS and FRAP, as well as the anthocyanin content and antioxidant activity in the ABTS and FRAP tests. Chemometric analysis can be an effective tool in determining the species affiliation of obtained hybrids and cultivars.

Integrative Omics Analysis Reveals Mechanisms of Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Djulis Spikes

Djulis (Chenopodium formosanum Koidz.), a member of the Amaranthaceae family plant, is noted for its vibrant appearance and significant ornamental value. However, the mechanisms underlying color variation in its spikes remain unexplored. This research initially detected the anthocyanin content at different developmental stages of the spike and subsequently utilized an integrative approach, combining targeted metabolomics, transcriptomics, and untargeted metabolomics analyses, to elucidate the mechanisms of anthocyanin biosynthesis in the spikes of djulis. The results of the combined multi-omics analysis showed that the metabolites associated with anthocyanin synthesis were mainly enriched in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway (ko00941) and the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway (ko00942). With the maturation of djulis spikes, a total of 28 differentially expressed genes and 17 differentially expressed metabolites were screened during the transition of spike color from green (G) to red (R) or orange (O). Twenty differentially expressed genes were selected for qRT-PCR validation, and the results are consistent with transcriptome sequencing. The upregulation of seven genes, including chalcone synthase (CfCHS3_1, CfCHS3_2, CfCHS3_3), flavanone 3-hydroxylase (CfF3H_3), flavonoid 3'5'-hydroxylase (CfCYP75A6_1), dihydroflavonol reductase (CfDFRA), and glucosyltransferase (Cf3GGT), promotes the formation and accumulation of delphinidin 3-sambubioside and peonidin 3-galactoside. The research results also showed that anthocyanins and betalains can coexist in the spike of djulis, and the reason for the change in spike color during development may be the result of the combined action of the two pigments. A possible regulatory pathway for anthocyanin biosynthesis during the spike maturation was constructed based on the analysis results. The results provide a reference and theoretical basis for further studying the molecular mechanism of anthocyanin regulation of color changes in Amaranthaceae plants.

Blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum L.) and Its Association with Donepezil Restore Cognitive Impairment, Suppress Oxidative Stress and Pro-inflammatory Responses, and Improve Purinergic Signaling in a Scopolamine-Induced Amnesia Model in Mice

Purinergic signaling plays a major role in aging and neurodegenerative diseases, which are associated with memory decline. Blackcurrant (BC), an anthocyanin-rich berry, is renowned for its antioxidant and neuroprotective activities. However, evidence on the effects of BC on purinergic signaling is lacking. This study investigated the effects of BC and its association with Donepezil (DNPZ) on learning and memory, on the modulation of purinergic signaling, pro-inflammatory responses, and oxidative markers in a mouse model of cognitive impairment chronically induced by scopolamine (SCO). Animals were divided into twelve groups and treated with BC (50 or 100 mg/kg), and/or DNPZ (5 mg/kg), and/or SCO (1 mg/kg). Results showed that SCO decreased spatial learning and memory as assessed by the Morris Water Maze test, and treatment with BC and/or DNPZ restored these effects. Furthermore, BC and/or DNPZ treatments also prevented changes in ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (NTPDase) and adenosine deaminase (ADA) activities and restored the increased density of P2X7 and A2A receptors in synaptosomes of the cerebral cortex of SCO-induced mice. Moreover, the increased Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) and interleukin-1β expression, and the oxidative stress markers levels were reduced by BC and/or DNPZ treatments, compared with the SCO group. Overall, BC and/or DNPZ treatments ameliorated SCO-induced cognitive decline, alleviated oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory responses, and improved purinergic signaling. These findings underscore the potential of BC, especially when in combination with DNPZ, as a therapeutic agent for the prevention of memory deficits associated with aging or neurological diseases.

Graph pangenome reveals the regulation of malate content in blood-fleshed peach by NAC transcription factors

BACKGROUND

Fruit acidity and color are important quality attributes in peaches. Although there are some exceptions, blood-fleshed peaches typically have a sour taste. However, little is known about the genetic variations linking organic acid and color regulation in peaches.

RESULTS

Here, we report a peach graph-based pangenome constructed from sixteen individual genome assemblies, capturing abundant structural variations and 82.3 Mb of sequences absent in the reference genome. Pangenome analysis reveals a long terminal repeat retrotransposon insertion in the promoter of the NAC transcription factor (TF) PpBL in blood-fleshed peaches, which enhances PpBL expression. Genome-wide association study identifies a significant association between PpBL and malate content. Silencing PpBL in peach fruit and ectopic overexpression of PpBL in tomatoes confirm that PpBL is a positive regulator of malate accumulation. Furthermore, we demonstrate that PpBL works synergistically with another NAC TF, PpNAC1, to activate the transcription of the aluminum-activated malate transporter PpALMT4, leading to increased malate content.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings, along with previous research showing that PpBL and PpNAC1 also regulate anthocyanin accumulation, explain the red coloration and sour taste in blood-fleshed peach fruits.

Natural pigments: innovative extraction technologies and their potential application in health and food industries

Natural pigments, or natural colorants, are frequently utilized in the food industry due to their diverse functional and nutritional attributes. Beyond their color properties, these pigments possess several biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, and neuroprotective effects, as well as benefits for eye health. This review aims to provide a timely overview of the potential of natural pigments in the pharmaceutical, medical, and food industries. Special emphasis is placed on emerging technologies for natural pigment extraction (thermal technologies, non-thermal technologies, and supercritical fluid extraction), their pharmacological effects, and their potential application in intelligent food packaging and as food colorants. Natural pigments show several pharmaceutical prospects. For example, delphinidin (30 µM) significantly inhibited the growth of three cancer cell lines (B16-F10, EO771, and RM1) by at least 90% after 48 h. Furthermore, as an antioxidant agent, fucoxanthin at the highest concentration (50 μg/mL) significantly increased the ratio of glutathione to glutathione disulfide (p < 0.05). In the food industry, natural pigments have been used to improve the nutritional value of food without significantly altering the sensory experience. Moreover, the use of natural pH-sensitive pigments as food freshness indicators in intelligent food packaging is a cutting-edge technological advancement. This innovation could provide useful information to consumers, increase shelf life, and assist in evaluating the quality of packaged food by observing color variations over time. However, the use of natural pigments presents certain challenges, particularly regarding their stability and higher production costs compared to synthetic pigments. This situation underscores the need for further investigation into alternative pigment sources and improved stabilization methods. The instability of these natural pigments emphasizes their tendency to degrade and change color when exposed to various external conditions, including light, oxygen, temperature fluctuations, pH levels, and interactions with other substances in the food matrix.

Copigmentation effect on red cabbage anthocyanins, investigation of their cellular viability and interaction mechanism

Anthocyanins (ANS) are an appealing substitute to synthetic colorants; but their practical applicability is limited due to low color stability. Copigmentation can improve both complex's color stability as well as intensity. In this study, we examined the interaction of red cabbage ANS with copigments i.e., two organic acid, two phenolic acid, a flavonoid and three amino acid through experimental and theoretical approach. Among various copigments, phenolic and organic acids induced a strong bathochromic shift of 6.5-7.1 nm and 5.1-11.6 nm. Thermal analysis, anthocyanin content and chromaticity, were used to assess the color intensity and stability of ANS, at 4 ℃, 25 ± 2 ℃, sunlight, oxygen, and heat. Results revealed that oxalic acid copigmented complex followed by chlorogenic and rosmarinic acid exhibits significant thermal stability with greater retention rate at 120 ℃ and 150 ℃. In case of anthocyanin content and colorimetric parameters, chlorogenic acid followed by oxalic and rosmarinic acid exhibits significantly improved stability. Rosmarinic acid copigmented sample showed good cell viability at high concentration (200 µg/mL). Steered molecular dynamics and thermodynamic analysis reveals chlorogenic and rosmarinic acid as promising copigments involving conventional H-bonds, π-π interactions, and carbon hydrogen bonds.

The Role of Dietary Anthocyanins for Managing Diabetes Mellitus-Associated Complications

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an intricate metabolic disorder marked by persistent hyperglycemia, arising from disruptions in glucose metabolism, with two main forms, type 1 and type 2, involving distinct etiologies affecting β-cell destruction or insulin levels and sensitivity. The islets of Langerhans, particularly β-cells and α-cells, play a pivotal role in glucose regulation, and both DM types lead to severe complications, including retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Plant-derived anthocyanins, rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, show promise in mitigating DM-related complications, providing a potential avenue for prevention and treatment. Medicinal herbs, fruits, and vegetables, abundant in bioactive compounds like phenolics, offer diverse benefits, including glucose regulation and anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-mutagenic, and neuroprotective properties. Anthocyanins, a subgroup of polyphenols, exhibit diverse isoforms and biosynthesis involving glycosylation, making them potential natural replacements for synthetic food colorants. Clinical trials demonstrate the efficacy and safety of anthocyanins in controlling glucose, reducing oxidative stress, and enhancing insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients, emphasizing their therapeutic potential. Preclinical studies revealed their multifaceted mechanisms, positioning anthocyanins as promising bioactive compounds for managing diabetes and its associated complications, including retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy.