Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Other Health Effects of Dragon Fruit and Potential Delivery Systems for Its Bioactive Compounds

Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa Bonpl.) in health and disease: A narrative review

Brazil nut is one of the most consumed nut-producing species from South America. This narrative review evaluates the potential benefits of Brazil nut in health and disease. Various preclinical studies have shown that Brazil nut possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions and may be associated with antihypertensive, anti-nephrotoxic, cardioprotective (by reversing obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia), and antineoplastic properties. Additionally, several clinical trials showed that Brazil nut can improve antioxidant defense, reduce inflammatory processes, attenuate glycemia, prevent obesity and hypertension, reduce visceral adiposity, reduce endothelial dysfunction, and improve vascular tone. Besides its various health benefits, Brazil nut can be a promising agent in the food industry for enhancing products with a better nutritional profile and meeting the growing demand for functional and sustainable foods. Moreover, secondary products derived from the Brazil nut, such as Brazil nut oil and phytocompounds, have potential for use in multiple pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.

A review of mandacaru fruit phytochemicals, its pharmacotherapeutic benefits and uses in food technology

The Cereus genus includes medicinal plants native to the Neotropical region. Although their colorful fruits are consumed in arid and semi-arid areas, these are underused industrially due to limited knowledge. This review presents recent studies on the chemical, physicochemical, and bioactive aspects of Cereus fruits, along with pharmacotherapeutic benefits and potential applications of peel, pulp, and seed compounds. Cereus fruits exhibit high nutritional value and richness in bioactive compounds. Their peel has the highest antioxidant concentration, mainly phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Their pulp offers significant dietary fiber and energy. Seed flour and oil are rich in minerals (K, P and Mg), and also contain oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids. Most studies focus on Cereus jamacaru, indicating the need to explore other Cereus species for their varied compositions, in addition to innovative physicochemical analyses to uncover relevant compounds.

Evaluate the Effects of Different Processing Methods on Red Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus species) Juice from the Perspective of Physicochemical Properties and Metabolic Profiles

Red dragon fruit juice (RDFJ) is a common fruit processing product on the market, and different processing methods can affect its quality. This study selected traditional thermal processing methods such as pasteurization and novel non-thermal processing methods like ultrasonication and cold plasma to treat red dragon fruit juice. The effects of different processing methods on the quality of red dragon fruit juice were comprehensively evaluated through physicochemical properties, in vitro activity, metabolomics and flavoromics. The results indicate that the cloud stability of cold plasma (CP) treatment increased by 16.64%, the total polyphenol content increased by 13.76%, and its antioxidant capacity was higher than that of other treatments. Cold plasma significantly increased the content of L-tyrosine and affected the amino acid metabolic pathways of RDFJ, which can contribute to the total phenolic content of RDFJ and antioxidant activity. CP treatment effectively preserved the aroma components of RDFJ and decreased the content of harmful furan volatile compounds. The results suggest that cold plasma is a promising innovative non-thermal processing technique in RDFJ.

Structural Characterization and In Vitro Fermentation Properties of Polysaccharides from Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus)

Dragon fruit offers numerous health benefits and is widely consumed. However, research on its polysaccharides, crucial constituents of the fruit, remains limited. The study aimed to characterize the structural and biological properties of SDFP-2, a polysaccharide isolated from dragon fruit. Structural analyses revealed that SDFP-2, with a molecular mass of 8.08 × 104 Da, consisted of mannose, glucosamine hydrochloride, rhamnose, glucuronic acid, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, and arabinose in a molar ratio of 0.181:0.250:16.544:12.762:3.793:0.739:51.014:14.716. SDFP-2 comprises HG-type and RG-I-type pectic structures, along with an arabinogalactan structure characterized by a main chain of →6)-β-D-Galp-(1→6)-β-D-Galp-(1→, with side chains attached at the O-3 position of the 1,6-β-galactose residues. Functionally, SDFP-2 exhibited notable hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic properties in HepG2 cell assays, significantly reducing lipid accumulation and enhancing glucose metabolism by restoring key glycolytic enzyme activities. In vitro fermentation with fecal microbiota demonstrated SDFP-2's ability to modulate gut microbial composition, elevating beneficial short-chain fatty acid production, including acetate, propionate, and butyrate. This microbial shift favored SCFA producers, such as Coprococcus eutactus and Roseburia intestinalis, while diminishing pro-inflammatory bacteria like Escherichia-Shigella, underscoring SDFP-2's prebiotic potential. These findings elucidated SDFP-2 as a promising dietary intervention for metabolic regulation and intestinal health enhancement.

Yellow Pitahaya (Selenicereus megalanthus Haw.): The Less Known of the Pitahayas

Pitahaya or dragon fruit is an exotic fruit native to Mesoamerica and is cultivated in several regions of the world. In recent years, pitahaya has become increasingly in demand, firstly, for its good nutritional and organoleptic qualities and, secondly, for its richness in antioxidants and bioactive compounds. Spain has opted for new tropical crops, and among them, pitahaya is one of the most planted in recent years. Most of the investigations on pitahaya were conducted with red cultivars, while the research on yellow pitahaya (Selenicereus megalanthus Haw.) is very scarce. In this review, the current knowledge about types of pitahayas, the fruit growth and ripening, the quality attributes, the postharvest storage, the use of by-products, and the health attributes were covered.

Physical-Chemical Characterization of Fruit Harvested at Different Maturity Stages of Grafted Yellow Pitahaya (Selenicereus megalanthus Haw.)

The physicochemical properties of fruits at different maturity stages using grafting technology are of great importance since grafting can alter the nutritional and functional parameters of the fruit. In this study, grafted yellow pitahaya (Selenicereus megalanthus Haw.) fruit, grown on live tutors, was evaluated from stages 0 to 5. The following response variables were recorded: fruit weight, diameter, and length; pulp weight with seed and peel; color; firmness; total soluble solids content; titratable acidity; pH; total flavonoid content; total polyphenol content; and antioxidant activity determined using FRAP and ABTS. The results show that fruits harvested from grafted plants have better physical characteristics such as fruit weight, diameter, and length. However, the total soluble solids content and titratable acidity were similar in fruits from grafted and ungrafted plants. The highest content of total polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity determined by ABTS and FRAP were found in fruits at maturity stage 0, and the content decreased as the fruits ripened. A positive correlation was found between the total polyphenol content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity with protein content. The S. megalanthus grafting technique is a promising technology for sustainable production because it reduces pesticide use by combatting soil pathogens and not modifying fruit quality.

AdipoRon's Impact on Alzheimer's Disease-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a leading cause of cognitive decline and mortality worldwide, characterized by neurodegeneration, synaptic deficiencies, and neuroinflammation. Despite advancements in early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, AD presents substantial challenges due to its complex pathology, heterogeneity, and the limited efficacy of current therapies. Consequently, there is a pressing need for novel therapeutic agents to target the multifaceted aspects of AD pathology, enhance current treatments, and minimize adverse effects. AdipoRon, an adiponectin receptor agonist, has garnered interest for its potential neuroprotective effects, including reducing neuroinflammation, improving mitochondrial function, and mitigating tau hyperphosphorylation. This review aimed to evaluate the effects of AdipoRon-based adiponectin replacement therapy against AD, using a comprehensive approach grounded in the PICO framework-Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcomes. A total of six studies were reviewed, including in vitro and in vivo investigations examining AdipoRon's impact on various AD models. These studies involved different cell lines and transgenic mouse models, assessing various outcomes such as cognitive function, neuroinflammation, tau phosphorylation, synaptic deficiencies, and relevant molecular pathways. By synthesizing data from these studies, our review thoroughly explains AdipoRon's neuroprotective effects, mechanisms of action, and potential as a therapeutic agent for AD. This analysis aims to highlight the current state of knowledge, identify gaps in the research, and suggest directions for future studies and clinical applications.

Isoorientin: Unveiling the hidden flavonoid's promise in combating cancer development and progression - A comprehensive review

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and the ability of tumors to invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant organs. Despite significant advancements in early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, many cancers still present substantial challenges due to their heterogeneity, resistance to conventional therapies, and severe side effects of existing treatments. Consequently, there is an ongoing need for novel therapeutic agents to selectively target cancer cells, enhance the efficacy of current treatments, and minimize adverse effects. Isoorientin (ISO) is a naturally occurring flavonoid known for its anticancer properties. ISO has demonstrated the ability to influence several critical processes in cancer progression, such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. Due to the absence of clinical trials, we included only in vitro studies, reviewing 13 investigations. These studies covered diverse cancer types, including lung, brain, oral, liver, pancreatic, and gastric cancers, and assessed various outcomes related to cell viability, apoptosis, migration, and molecular pathway modulation. By synthesizing data from these investigations, our review seeks to provide a thorough understanding of ISO's anticancer effects, its mechanisms of action, and its potential as a therapeutic agent.

Fates of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activities of red pitaya pulp upon in vitro gastrointestinal digestion

Health benefit effects of bioactive compounds depend on their bioavailabilities, which could vary according to factors including food matrix and digestion environment. To understand the "bioaccessible" health benefit of red pitay pulp, the INFOGEST static in vitro simulation of gastrointestinal (GI) digestion model and targeted metabolomics method were applied to unravel the fates of bioactive compounds in the whole food of red pitaya pulp during GI digestion. The antioxidant activity as one of the health benefit indices was also assessed to compare the changes in bioactive properties of red pitaya pulp. Results showed that, after GI digestion, total phenolic and flavonoid content increased by 84% and 4.55 folds, respectively. But total betacyanin content decreased. All the detected phenolic acids increased during the GI process, and lots of new phenolic compounds were produced. The overall chemical antioxidant capacity of red pitaya pulp increased after GI digestion. Correlation analysis results indicated that flavonoids and ferulic acid were probably the primary sources of the antioxidant capacity of the red pitaya pulp and its digests. Moreover, the cytoprotective effects against H2O2-induced oxidative damage varied among gastric cell, enterocyte and hepatocyte. The GI digests of red pitaya pulp could better alleviate the H2O2-induced oxidative stress in cells by preventing the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibiting the production of malondialdehyde (MDA), increasing the production of glutathione (GSH), and promoting the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). These findings can be used as a basis for future studies in the design and production of functional ingredients/foods.

Revolutionizing our understanding of Parkinson's disease: Dr. Heinz Reichmann's pioneering research and future research direction

Millions of individuals around the world are afflicted with Parkinson's disease (PD), a prevalent and incapacitating neurodegenerative disorder. Dr. Reichmann, a distinguished professor and neurologist, has made substantial advancements in the domain of PD research, encompassing both fundamental scientific investigations and practical applications. His research has illuminated the etiology and treatment of PD, as well as the function of energy metabolism and premotor symptoms. As a precursor to a number of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators that are implicated in the pathophysiology of PD, he has also investigated the application of tryptophan (Trp) derivatives in the disease. His principal findings and insights are summarized and synthesized in this narrative review article, which also emphasizes the challenges and implications for future PD research. This narrative review aims to identify and analyze the key contributions of Reichmann to the field of PD research, with the ultimate goal of informing future research directions in the domain. By examining Reichmann's work, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of his major contributions and how they can be applied to advance the diagnosis and treatment of PD. This paper also explores the potential intersection of Reichmann's findings with emerging avenues, such as the investigation of Trp and its metabolites, particularly kynurenines, which could lead to new insights and potential therapeutic strategies for managing neurodegenerative disorders like PD.

Nutritional Value and Therapeutic Benefits of Dragon Fruit: A Comprehensive Review with Implications for Establishing Australian Industry Standards

Dragon fruit, which is native to northern South America and Mexico, has become a significant crop in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Vietnam, China, and Australia. The fruit (Hylocereus spp.) is rich in various bioactive phytochemical compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and pigments such as betalains and anthocyanins, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties. This comprehensive review introduces the origin, classification, and global production of dragon fruit, with a particular focus on its bioactive phytochemicals and therapeutic potential. Additionally, it critically evaluates the current industry standards for fresh dragon fruit production across key producing countries. While these standards primarily focus on quality, classification, and grading criteria, they lack focus on parameters related to the fruit's bioactive content. The absence of established quality standards for fresh produce in the Australian dragon fruit industry presents a unique opportunity to develop guidelines that align with both international benchmarks and the therapeutic potential of the fruit. By addressing this gap, this review can potentially help Australia to position its dragon fruit industry to achieve greater consistency, competitiveness, and consumer appeal. As the demand for functional foods continues to rise, aligning Australian production practices with global standards becomes critical to meeting domestic market expectations. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of dragon fruit's nutritional and therapeutic significance and highlights its potential role in establishing a robust standard for the Australian dragon fruit industry. A review of global industry standards reveled that Australian standard could incorporate classifications of dragon fruits, including external factors like appearance, size, and defect tolerance. Future research is needed to prioritize understanding of the impact of cultivation practices and environmental factors on the bioactive composition of dragon fruit, enabling the development of best practices for growers. Additionally, further studies are needed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of these bioactive properties through clinical trials, particularly their potential in preventing chronic diseases. The advancement of analytical methods for quantifying bioactive compounds will provide deeper insights into their health benefits and support the establishment of bioactive-oriented industry standards. Moreover, investigations of post-harvest handling and processing techniques could optimize the preservation of these valuable compounds, enhancing dragon fruit's role as a functional food.

Fantastic Frogs and Where to Use Them: Unveiling the Hidden Cinobufagin's Promise in Combating Lung Cancer Development and Progression Through a Systematic Review of Preclinical Evidence

Cinobufagin (CB), a bufadienolide, has shown promising potential as an anticancer agent, particularly in combating lung cancer. This systematic review synthesizes preclinical evidence on CB's effects against lung cancer, focusing on its mechanisms of action, efficacy, and potential clinical implications. We analyzed data from various preclinical studies involving both in vitro cell line models and in vivo animal models. The reviewed studies indicate that CB effectively reduces cell viability, induces apoptosis, and inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and invasion across multiple lung cancer cell lines and xenograft models. Specifically, CB was found to decrease cell viability and increase apoptosis in lung cancer cells by modulating key molecular pathways, including Bcl-2, Bax, cleaved caspases, caveolin-1, FLOT2, Akt, STAT3, and FOXO1. In vivo studies further demonstrated significant inhibition of tumor growth with minimal toxicity. However, limitations include reliance on in vitro models, which may not fully represent in vivo tumor dynamics, and a lack of long-term safety data. The studies also vary in their methodologies and cell line models, which may not accurately encompass all lung cancer subtypes or predict human responses. Despite these limitations, CB's ability to target specific molecular pathways and its promising results in preclinical models suggest it could be a valuable addition to lung cancer treatment strategies. Our review suggests further clinical trials to validate its efficacy and safety in humans. Future research should explore combination therapies and optimize delivery methods to enhance clinical outcomes.

The therapeutic potential of bee venom-derived Apamin and Melittin conjugates in cancer treatment: A systematic review

The therapeutic potential of bee venom-derived peptides, particularly apamin and melittin, in cancer treatment has garnered significant attention as a promising avenue for advancing oncology. This systematic review examines preclinical studies highlighting the emerging role of these peptides in enhancing cancer therapies. Melittin and apamin, when conjugated with other therapeutic agents or formulated into novel delivery systems, have demonstrated improved efficacy in targeting tumor cells. Key findings indicate that melittin-based conjugates, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG)ylated versions, show potential in enhancing therapeutic outcomes and minimizing toxicity across various cancer models. Similarly, apamin-conjugated formulations have improved the efficacy of established anti-cancer drugs, contributing to enhanced targeting and reduced systemic toxicity. These developments underscore a growing interest in leveraging bee venom-derived peptides as adjuncts in cancer therapy. The integration of these peptides into treatment regimens offers a promising strategy to address current limitations in cancer treatment, such as drug resistance and off-target effects. However, comprehensive validation through clinical trials is essential to confirm their safety and effectiveness in human patients. This review highlights the global emergence of bee venom-derived peptides in cancer treatment, advocating for continued research and development to fully realize their therapeutic potential.

The Profile of Phenolic Compounds Identified in Pitaya Fruits, Health Effects, and Food Applications: An Integrative Review

OBJECTIVE

This integrative review aimed to identify the phenolic compounds present in pitayas (dragon fruit).

METHODS

We employed a comprehensive search strategy, encompassing full-text articles published between 2013 and 2023 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish from databases indexed in ScienceDirect, Capes Periodics, Scielo, and PubMed. The study's selection was guided by the question, "What are the main phenolic compounds found in pitaya fruits?".

RESULTS

After screening 601 papers, 57 met the inclusion criteria. The identified phytochemicals have been associated with a range of health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties. Additionally, they exhibit promising applications in the management of cancer, diabetes, and obesity. These 57 studies encompassed various genera, including Hylocereus, Selenicereus, and Stenocereus. Notably, Hylocereus undatus and Hylocereus polyrhizus emerged as the most extensively characterized species regarding polyphenol content. Analysis revealed that flavonoids, particularly kaempferol and rutin, were the predominant phenolic class within the pulp and peel of these fruits. Additionally, hydroxycinnamic and benzoic acid derivatives, especially chlorogenic acid, caffeic, protocatechuic, synaptic, and ellagic acid, were frequently reported. Furthermore, betalains, specifically betacyanins, were identified, contributing to the characteristic purplish-red color of the pitaya peel and pulp. These betalains hold significant potential as natural colorants in the food industry.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, the different pitayas have promising sources for the extraction of pigments for incorporation in the food industry. We recommend further studies investigate their potential as nutraceuticals.

Curcumin: A Golden Approach to Healthy Aging: A Systematic Review of the Evidence

Aging-related disorders pose significant challenges due to their complex interplay of physiological and metabolic factors, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Curcumin, a natural compound with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has emerged as a promising candidate for mitigating these age-related processes. However, gaps in understanding the precise mechanisms of curcumin's effects and the optimal dosages for different conditions necessitate further investigation. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on curcumin's potential in addressing age-related disorders, emphasizing its impact on cognitive function, neurodegeneration, and muscle health in older adults. By evaluating the safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of action of curcumin supplementation, this review aims to provide insights into its therapeutic potential for promoting healthy aging. A systematic search across three databases using specific keywords yielded 2256 documents, leading to the selection of 15 clinical trials for synthesis. Here, we highlight the promising potential of curcumin as a multifaceted therapeutic agent in combating age-related disorders. The findings of this review suggest that curcumin could offer a natural and effective approach to enhancing the quality of life of aging individuals. Further research and well-designed clinical trials are essential to validate these findings and optimize the use of curcumin in personalized medicine approaches for age-related conditions.

Comparative analysis of nutrient composition and antioxidant activity in three dragon fruit cultivars

Dragon fruit has significant economic value in many countries due to has excellent nutritional content, health advantages, and adaptability to different climates, making it an important crop in the global fruit industry. This study aimed to gather comprehensive nutritional data on three dragon fruit cultivars by analysing the levels of micronutrients, fibre, carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in their pulps. Uniform dragon fruit samples underwent thorough analysis for proximate composition, mineral content, pigments, antioxidants, and vitamin C, with statistical methods used to assess significant differences among the parameters studied. The proximate composition analysis revealed significant differences among the three dragon fruit cultivars. Among the proximate components, protein (0.40 ± 0.02 g/100 g), moisture (91.33 ± 0.88%), crude fibre (0.32 ± 0.07 g/100 g), and ash (1.27 ± 0.09 g/100 g) were more abundant in Hylocereus costaricensis than in Hylocereus undatus and Hylocereus megalanthus. On the other hand, Hylocereus undatus had higher carbohydrate (17.02 ± 0.63 g/100 g) and energy (69.74 ± 2.44 kcal/100 g) contents. K (7.23 ± 0.35 mg/100 g), Ca (1.61 ± 0.13 mg/100 g), Fe (1.84 ± 0.05 mg/100 g), and Zn (0.37 ± 0.034 mg/100 g) are highly abundant in H. costaricensis. Additionally, Hylocereus costaricensis had the highest anthocyanin content (120.15 ± 3.29 mg/g FW) and total carotenoid content (72.51 ± 1.62 mg/g FW), along with the highest vitamin C content (8.92 ± 0.13 mg/g FW) and total soluble phenolic content (572.48 ± 20.77 mg/100 g). Its remarkable antioxidant activity was further highlighted by the lowest SC50 value (13.50 ± 0.4 mg/mL) for its DPPH radical scavenging capacity. The total soluble sugar content was highest in Hylocereus megalanthus (8.72 ± 0.30 g/100 g FW). Hierarchical clustering analysis revealed distinct trait and genotype associations; among the studied cultivars, Hylocereus costaricensis demonstrated superior performance across multiple traits. Correlation analysis indicated significant positive correlations among several traits, while principal component analysis highlighted the contribution of each trait to overall variance, with PC1 explaining 73.95% of the total variance. This study highlights the nutritional variations among dragon fruit cultivars, with Hylocereus costaricensis showing superior performance, guiding dietary planning and functional food development.

Navigating the Neurobiology of Migraine: From Pathways to Potential Therapies

Migraine is a debilitating neurological disorder characterized by recurring episodes of throbbing headaches that are frequently accompanied by sensory disturbances, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound [...].

Optimizing germination: comparative assessment of various growth media on dragon fruit germination and early growth

Dragon fruit (Selenicereus undatus), known for its captivating appearance and remarkable nutritional profile, has garnered considerable attention in recent years. Despite its popularity, there's a dearth of research on optimal conditions for seed germination and early growth stages such as seedling shoot length, which are crucial for optimal crop yield. This study aims to bridge this gap by evaluating various growing media's performance on dragon fruit germination and early growth stages. Dragon fruit seeds were obtained from local markets in Pakistan and evaluated in five different growing media: cocopeat, peat moss, sand, vermiculite, and compost. Germination parameters were observed for 45 days, including seed germination percentage, mean germination time, and mean daily germination percentage, among others while early growth was monitored for 240 days. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test. Significant differences were found among the growing media regarding germination percentage, mean germination time, and mean daily germination. Vermiculite exhibited the highest germination rate (93.33%), while compost showed the least (70%). Peat moss and sand media facilitated rapid germination, while compost showed slower rates. Stem length was significantly influenced by the growth media, with compost supporting the longest stems. Vermiculite emerged as the most effective medium for dragon fruit seed germination, while compost showed slower but steady growth. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing dragon fruit cultivation, aiding commercial growers and enthusiasts in achieving higher yields and quality. Further research could explore additional factors influencing dragon fruit growth and development.

Integrated metabolic profiles and microbial communities to reveal the beneficial effect of red pitaya on early constipation

Pitaya is a well-known fruit widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical tropical regions, and is characterized by its flesh colour into red, white, and yellow pitaya. Red pitaya has dark red flesh and is the preferred choice among consumers due to its superior taste compared to other varieties. Red pitaya has been known to cause diarrhoea, and studies have reported that pitaya does this by drawing moisture into the intestines, resulting in defecation. However, the exact mechanism of action is still unclear. In this study, mass spectrometry was employed to identify small molecular compounds in red pitaya powder, and a loperamide hydrochloride-induced early constipation mouse model was used to assess the efficacy of red pitaya. 16S rDNA and non-targeted metabolomics techniques were used to systematically reveal the regulatory characteristics of the intestinal flora and to identify the intestinal metabolites associated with constipation. The results showed that 44 novel small molecular compounds were identified from red pitaya powder, including a variety of phenolic acids and flavonoids. Pathological results showed that administration of red pitaya powder at a high dose (1000 mg kg-1) significantly ameliorated the abnormal expansion of intestinal goblet cells observed in the early stages of constipation. In addition, early constipation increased metabolites such as serotonin and 5-hydroxytryptophol, which were normalized following the ingestion of red pitaya powder. Furthermore, Erysipelatoclostridium, Parasutterella, and other abnormal gut microbiota associated with early constipation returned to healthy levels after the ingestion of red pitaya powder. Finally, significant correlations were observed between the expression of 33 different serum metabolites and the abundance of eight kinds of intestinal flora. Consequently, red pitaya holds potential as a safe food supplement for the prevention or amelioration of early-stage constipation.

Preharvest Elicitors as a Tool to Enhance Bioactive Compounds and Quality of Both Peel and Pulp of Yellow Pitahaya (Selenicereus megalanthus Haw.) at Harvest and during Postharvest Storage

Yellow pitahaya is a tropical fruit that has gained popularity in recent years. Natural elicitors are compounds that can stimulate the resistance and quality of fruits. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of natural elicitors, methyl salicylate (MeSa), methyl jasmonate (JaMe), salicylic acid (SA) and oxalic acid (OA) at concentrations of 0.1 mM (MeSa and JaMe) and 5 mM (SA and OA), applied to the yellow pitahaya fruits under greenhouse conditions. After full blossom, four applications were made with a frequency of 15 days. At the time of harvest and after storage, the following variables were evaluated: firmness (whole fruit), total soluble solids (TSS), total acidity (TA), phenolics and carotenoids (in the pulp), while phenolics, carotenoids, macronutrients and micronutrients were determined in the peel. The results showed MeSa advanced the fruit maturation, according to higher TSS, lower TA and firmness than MeJa-treated fruits, for which a delayed ripening process was shown. All treatments induced a higher polyphenolic concentration during storage. Regarding the alternative use of the peel as a by-product, the application of natural elicitors significantly increased the content of polyphenols, carotenoids, macronutrients and micronutrients in the peel, especially MeSa, which can be used as a bioactive compound in the food industry. In conclusion, the results indicate that natural elicitors can be an alternative to improve the quality and shelf life of yellow pitahaya fruits.

Altitudinal variation of dragon fruit metabolite profiles as revealed by UPLC-MS/MS-based widely targeted metabolomics analysis

BACKGROUND

Geographical factors affect the nutritional, therapeutic and commercial values of fruits. Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp) is a popular fruit in Asia and a potential functional food with diverse pharmacological attributes. Although it is produced in various localities, the information related to the altitudinal variation of dragon fruit nutrients and active compounds is scarce. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the variations in metabolite profiles of H. polyrhizus (variety Jindu1) fruit pulps from three different altitudes of China, including Wangmo (WM, 650 m), Luodian (LD, 420 m), and Zhenning (ZN, 356 m). Jindu1 is the main cultivated pitaya variety in Guizhou province, China.

RESULTS

The LC-MS (liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy)-based widely targeted metabolic profiling identified 645 metabolites, of which flavonoids (22.64%), lipids (13.80%), phenolic acids (12.40%), amino acids and derivatives (10.39%), alkaloids (8.84%), and organic acids (8.37%) were dominant. Multivariate analyses unveiled that the metabolite profiles of the fruit differed regarding the altitude. Fruits from WM (highest altitude) were prime in quality, with higher levels of flavonoids, alkaloids, nucleotides and derivatives, amino acids and derivatives, and vitamins. Fruits from LD and ZN had the highest relative content of phenolic acids and terpenoids, respectively. We identified 69 significantly differentially accumulated metabolites across the pulps of the fruits from the three locations. KEGG analysis revealed that flavone and flavonol biosynthesis and isoflavonoid biosynthesis were the most differentially regulated. It was noteworthy that most active flavonoid compounds exhibited an increasing accumulation pattern along with the increase in altitude. Vitexin and isovitexin were the major differentially accumulated flavonoids. Furthermore, we identified two potential metabolic biomarkers (vitexin and kaempferol 3-O-[2-O-β-D-galactose-6-O-a-L-rhamnose]-β-D-glucoside) to discriminate between dragon fruits from different geographical origins.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide insights into metabolic changes in dragon fruits grown at different altitudes. Furthermore, they show that growing pitaya at high altitudes can produce fruit with higher levels of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids.

Assessing the suitability of pitaya plant varieties for cultivation in the arid climate of Saudi Arabia

Pitaya, sometimes called dragon fruit, is a tropical fruit crop that has become more well-known recently because of its distinct flavor and beneficial properties. However, it has only been cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas, and nothing is known about whether it can thrive in arid climates. This study considers various pitaya plant types' morphological, physiological, and agronomic aspects to assess their viability for cultivation in desert regions. This study investigated the growth and development of two cultivars of pitaya plants, S. undatus and S. costaricensis, in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia. Different fertilisation treatments were applied to determine the most effective approach for promoting growth and productivity. Results showed that the Klebak fertiliser, which contains marine algae rich in auxins and amino acids, was the most effective treatment for S. undatus. For S. costaricensis, the Klebak fertiliser was also effective, but treating tree leaves with volcanic stone was also beneficial. The volcanic stone helped to preserve moisture in the soil and promote good drainage, while the leaves provided important organic nutrients for growth. In addition, S. costaricensis was found to be more resistant and responsive to cultivation, likely due to its original habitat in the temperate climate of Mexico. These findings can help inform the cultivation of pitaya plants in similar climatic conditions. They may have implications for other areas seeking to promote the growth and productivity of this important crop.

AAPH-induced oxidative damage reduced anion exchanger 1 (SLC4A1/AE1) activity in human red blood cells: protective effect of an anthocyanin-rich extract

Introduction: During their lifespan in the bloodstream, red blood cells (RBCs) are exposed to multiple stressors, including increased oxidative stress, which can affect their morphology and function, thereby contributing to disease. Aim: This investigation aimed to explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms related to oxidative stress underlying anion exchanger 1 activity (band 3, SLC4A1/AE1) in human RBCs. To achieve this aim, the relationship between RBC morphology and functional and metabolic activity has been explored. Moreover, the potential protective effect of an anthocyanin-enriched fraction extracted from Callistemon citrinus flowers was studied. Methods: Cellular morphology, parameters of oxidative stress, as well as the anion exchange capability of band 3 have been analyzed in RBCs treated for 1 h with 50 mM of the pro-oxidant 2,2'-azobis (2-methylpropionamide)-dihydrochloride (AAPH). Before or after the oxidative insult, subsets of cells were exposed to 0.01 μg/mL of an anthocyanin-enriched fraction for 1 h. Results: Exposure to AAPH caused oxidative stress, exhaustion of reduced glutathione, and over-activation of the endogenous antioxidant machinery, resulting in morphological alterations of RBCs, specifically the formation of acanthocytes, increased lipid peroxidation and oxidation of proteins, as well as abnormal distribution and hyper-phosphorylation of band 3. Expected, oxidative stress was also associated with a decreased band 3 ion transport activity and an increase of oxidized haemoglobin, which led to abnormal clustering of band 3. Exposure of cells to the anthocyanin-enriched fraction prior to, but not after, oxidative stress efficiently counteracted oxidative stress-related alterations. Importantly, protection of band3 function from oxidative stress could only be achieved in intact cells and not in RBC ghosts. Conclusion: These findings contribute a) to clarify oxidative stress-related physiological and biochemical alterations in human RBCs, b) propose anthocyanins as natural antioxidants to neutralize oxidative stress-related modifications, and 3) suggest that cell integrity, and therefore a cytosolic component, is required to reverse oxidative stress-related pathophysiological derangements in human mature RBCs.

Nutrition Value of Baked Meat Products Fortified with Lyophilized Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus)

This study evaluates the nutritional value of a baked pork meat product containing lyophilized dragon fruit pulp. The selected nutritional properties of a baked pork meat product fortified with lyophilized Hylocereus undatus pulp in doses of 0.5%, 1.5%, 2.5%, and 4% were evaluated. For this assessment, changes in the basic chemical composition of the products, the content of calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and phosphorus, and the profile of fatty acids were considered. Additionally, characteristics typical for meat products, such as pH, water activity, oxidation-reduction potential or thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and antioxidant properties of the product during 21 days of refrigerated storage, were assessed. The findings indicate that the use of higher doses of lyophilizate, i.e., in the amounts of 2.5% and 4%, significantly (p < 0.05) increases the nutritional value of meat products, leading to an increase in the concentration of essential minerals important for the proper functioning of the human body (calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron). These changes occurred without affecting the basic chemical composition (except for an increase in the content of fat and carbohydrates in the sample with the addition of 4% lyophilizate). The introduction of the fortification treatment improved the fatty acid profile, resulting in an increase in the content of C14:0, C16:0, C20:0, and C20:5n3. In addition, in the variant with a 4% dosage, there was an increased content of C8:0, C10:0, C16:1n7, C18:0, C18:1n9C + C18:1n9t, and C18:2n6C + C18:2n6t, C18:3n3 (alpha), C20:1n15, and C20:1n9. In this particular variant, an increase in saturated-, monounsaturated-, and polyunsaturated fatty acids was also observed, which was associated with an increased level of TBARS in meat products. However, the increase in the dose of lyophilizate caused an increase in the antiradical effect of meat extracts. Based on the results obtained, it seems reasonable to use a plant additive in the form of lyophilized dragon fruit pulp in the amount of 4.0% in the production of pork meat products.

Pitaya as a New Alternative Crop for Iberian Peninsula: Biology and Edaphoclimatic Requirements

Pitaya is one of the fruit species whose demand has increased in recent years due to the numerous health benefits and lucrative price of the fruit and its by-products. In Europe, the Iberian Peninsula and other Mediterranean countries are the ones with favorable climatic conditions for its cultivation. This document describes much of the history of pitaya in the Iberian Peninsula and the difficulties related to its cultivation. A bibliographical survey was carried out on the culture of pitaya in the world, focusing on the edaphoclimatic requirements, and on the possibility of this becoming a consolidated crop in the Iberian Peninsula. The relatively low water requirement of pitaya makes this crop sustainable among crops that require irrigation. In addition, we provide a perspective for use and research of this emerging crop. There has been an exponential growth of scientific publications on pitaya in the last decade; however, much more needs to be researched to know how to increase productivity as well as the sensory quality of fruits in different regions. This sustainable crop is a good option to diversify fruit production in the Iberian Peninsula.

Functional, antioxidant, and sensory properties of mixed-fruit (pitaya, watermelon, and mint) and pitaya wines

Fermentation of fruits offers a diverse range of flavors, smells, and colors. Colored fruits are rich in naturally occurring pigments, such as betacyanin. Hence, they are considered to possess powerful antioxidant activities. However, in wine production, such pigments often diversify the flavor and color of the wine. The objective of this study was to compare the quality of two types of wines: a single-fruit (pitaya) wine and a mixed-fruit wine that contains watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), mint (Mintha spicata), and pitaya (Hylocereus costaricensis). In this study, fresh pitaya, watermelon, and mint leaves were fermented using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Juice extracts underwent fermentation at room temperature for 7 days under dark conditions. Physicochemical changes, such as pH, sugar content, specific gravity, and alcohol content, were observed daily. The antioxidant activities were measured by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, and total phenolic contents (TPCs). After 14 days of fermentation, the alcohol contents of mixed and pitaya wine were 11.22% (v/v) and 11.25%, respectively. The total sugar content of the mixed wine was 8.0 °Brix, while that of pitaya wine was 7.0 °Brix. Moreover, pitaya wine exhibited a higher TPC (22.7 mg GAE/100 g D.W.), and better FRAP (3578 μmole/L) and DPPH scavenging ability (80.2%) compared to the mixed wine with a TPC of 21.4 mg GAE/100 g D.W., FRAP of 2528 μmole/L, and DPPH of 75.6%., while the addition of watermelon and mint did not change the alcohol percentage contents of wine.