Immature persimmon residue as a novel biosorbent for efficient removal of Pb(II) and Cr(VI) from wastewater: Performance and mechanisms

Owing to the powerful affinity of tannin toward heavy metal ions, it is frequently immobilized on adsorbents to enhance their adsorption properties. However, natural adsorbents containing tannin have been overlooked owing to its water solubility. Herein, a novel natural adsorbent based on the immature persimmon residue (IPR) with soluble tannin removed was fabricated to eliminate Pb(II) and Cr(VI) in aquatic environments. The insoluble tannin in IPR endowed it with prosperous properties for eliminating Pb(II) and Cr(VI), and the IPR achieved maximum Pb(II) and Cr(VI) adsorption quantities of 68.79 mg/g and 139.40 mg/g, respectively. Kinetics and isothermal adsorption analysis demonstrated that the removal behavior was controlled by monolayer chemical adsorption. Moreover, the IPR exhibited satisfactory Pb(II) and Cr(VI) removal efficiencies even in the presence of multiple coexisting ions and showed promising regeneration potential after undergoing five consecutive cycles. Additionally, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and density functional theory (DFT) analysis unveiled that the elimination mechanisms were primarily electrostatic attraction, chelation and reduction. Overall, the IPR, as a tannin-containing biosorbent, was verified to possess substantial potential for heavy metal removal, which can provide new insights into the development of novel natural adsorbents from the perspective of waste resource utilization.

Pentacyclic triterpene acids, rotungenic acid and barbinervic acid, from fresh leaves of Diospyros kaki Thunberg and their glutaminase inhibitory activities

Glutaminase is an important target that is often over-expressed in neurodegenerative and lifestyle-related diseases but few effective inhibitors of this enzyme have yet reached clinical trials. Three compounds isolated from fresh leaves of Diospyros kaki Thunberg, ursolic acid (1), rotungenic acid (2) and barbinervic acid (3), were identified by analyzing their NMR and MS spectral data and comparison of these with reported data. The IC50 values of 1-3 and 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON) as control were 775, 13, 14, and 434 μM, respectively. Compounds 2 and 3 showed higher glutaminase inhibitory activities than DON. Compounds 2 and 3 may serve as potential lead compounds for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative and lifestyle-related diseases by targeting glutaminase. This is the first report on glutaminase inhibitory activities of 2 and 3.

Osteogenic Effects of the Diospyros lotus L. Leaf Extract on MC3T3-E1 Pre-Osteoblasts and Ovariectomized Mice via BMP2/4 and TGF β Pathways

Osteoporosis, a disease defined by the primary bone strength due to a low bone mineral density, is a bone disorder associated with increased mortality in the older adult population. Osteoporosis is mainly treated via hormone replacement therapy, bisphosphates, and anti-bone resorption agents. However, these agents exert severe side effects, necessitating the development of novel therapeutic agents. Many studies are focusing on osteogenic agents as they increase the bone density, which is essential for osteoporosis treatment. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of Diospyros lotus L. leaf extract (DLE) and its components on osteoporosis in MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts and ovariectomized mice and to elucidate the underlying related pathways. DLE enhanced the differentiation of MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts, with a 1.5-fold elevation in ALP activity, and increased the levels of osteogenic molecules, RUNX family transcription factor 2, and osterix. This alteration resulted from the activation of bone morphogenic protein 2/4 (BMP2/4) and transformation of growth factor β (TGF β) pathways. In ovariectomized mice, DLE suppressed the decrease in bone mineral density by 50% and improved the expression of other bone markers, which was confirmed by the 3~40-fold increase in osteogenic proteins and mRNA expression levels in bone marrow cells. The three major compounds identified in DLE exhibited osteogenic and estrogenic activities with their aglycones, as previously reported. Among the major compounds, myricitrin alone was not as strong as whole DLE with all its constituents. The osteogenic activity of DLE was partially suppressed by the inhibitor of estrogen signaling, indicating that the estrogenic activity of DLE participated in its osteogenic activity. Overall, DLE suppresses osteoporosis by inducing osteoblast differentiation.

Hypoglycemic activity of immature persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) extracts and its inhibition mechanism for α-amylase and α-glucosidase

Persimmon tannins, particularly in immature persimmons, haven't yet received corresponding attention to research on therapy of diabetes mellitus in spite of high hypoglycemic activity. To accurately screening key hypoglycemic components, immature persimmon extracts were isolated and identified using enzyme affinity ultrafiltration and HRLC-ESI-MS/MS. Among them, Hederagenin (IC50 = 0.077 ± 0.003 mg/mL), Ursolic acid (IC50 = 0.001 ± 0.000 mg/mL) and Quercetin dehydrate (IC50 = 0.081 ± 0.001 mg/mL) exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect on α-amylase (HSA and PPA) and α-glucosidase, respectively. And their inhibition mechanisms were analyzed using multi-spectral analysis, atomic force microscope and molecular docking, indicating the bonding with starch digestion enzymes through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction, and generating the enzyme aggregation. In vivo starch-tolerance experiment further verified that these inhibitors could improve postprandial hyperglycemia (17.18 % ∼ 40.29 %), far more than acarbose. Suppressing, Hederagenin and Ursolic acid as triterpenoids appeared amazing potentiality to alleviate postprandial hyperglycemia, which suggested that IPE were comprehensive exploration values on prevention and treatment of hyperglycemia.

Larvicidal Activity against Spodoptera frugiperda of some Constituents from two Diospyros Species. In silico Pesticide-likeness Properties, Acetylcholinesterase Activity and Molecular Docking

This report informs for the first time the chemical constituents of Diospyros xolocotzii and Diospyros digyna, the pesticidal and the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition potential of some compounds calculated by in silico approaches, the larvicidal activity against Spodoptera frugiperda of available compounds, the AChE inhibition of selected compounds, and the results of the molecular docking of the most active ones with this receptor. From the aerial parts of D. xolocotzii were isolated pentacyclic triterpenes (1-4, 6, 10, 11-13), phytosterols (15-17), and isodiospyrin (18), whereas the analysis of aerial parts of D. digyna conducted to the isolation of pentacyclic triterpenes (4, 5, 7-9, 11-14), (4S)-shinanolone (19), and scopoletin (20). For comparison purposes, origanal (21) was chemically prepared from 11. The in silico analysis showed that the tested compounds have pesticide potential. The larvicidal activities of 11>13>12 indicated that the increase of the oxidation degree at C-28 increases their bioactivity. Compounds 11 and 21 presented the higher inhibition in the acetylcholinesterase assay, and the higher binding energies, and for the interactionswith AChE by molecular docking. Both Diospyros species are sources of triterpenes with pesticidal potential and the molecular changes in lupane triterpenes correlate with the observed bioactivity and molecular docking.

Postharvest hexanal application delays senescence and maintains quality in persimmon fruit during low-temperature storage

BACKGROUND

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) fruit is characterized by rapid metabolic changes following ripening, and softening occurs due to the gradual breakdown of the cell membrane by direct catabolic cascades of phospholipase D enzyme on the phospholipid bilayer. Cell membrane weakening is also enhanced by the generation of reactive oxygen species during stress conditions such as cold storage and postharvest handling. This research evaluated the postharvest hexanal dipping application on persimmon fruit storage quality.

RESULTS

The response of 'MKÜ Harbiye' persimmon fruit to exogenous hexanal at different concentrations (0.04% and 0.08%, named as HEX-I and HEX-II, respectively) on quality parameters, chilling injury (CI), microbial growth, antioxidant compounds and free radical scavenging capacity (FRSC) during storage at 0 °C and 80-90 ± 5% relative humidity for 120 days were evaluated. Both hexanal treatments retained quality and delayed senescence, as indicated by greener peel (lower a* and L* values), higher firmness, total phenol concentration, FRSC and titratable acidity, but lower weight loss, electrical conductivity, rate of CO2 , ethylene production, decay and microbial growth than the control. Total soluble solids were lower in treated fruit than the control up to 100 days, and were much lower in HEX-I treatment as compared to HEX-II treatment. HEX-I treatment exhibited lower CI than the other treatments during storage.

CONCLUSION

Hexanal at 0.04% could be used to increase the storage period of 'MKÜ Harbiye' persimmon fruit up to 120 days at 0 °C and 80-90 ± 5% relative humidity by retaining quality and delaying senescence. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Traditional Uses, Pharmacological Activities, and Phytochemical Analysis of Diospyros mespiliformis Hochst. ex. A. DC (Ebenaceae): A Review

Diospyros mespiliformis Hochst. ex. A. DC is widely distributed throughout Africa and around the world. It is utilized ethnobotanically to treat fevers, wounds, malaria, diabetes mellitus, and other diseases. This review aims to provide an exhaustive overview of the traditional uses, pharmacology, and phytochemical analysis of D. mespiliformis, with the objective of identifying its therapeutic potential for further research. Scientific resources, including Google Scholar, Science Direct, Web of Science, Pub Med, and Scopus, were used to find pertinent data on D. mespiliformis. Secondary metabolites tentatively identified from this species were primarily terpenoids, naphthoquinones, phenolics, and coumarins. D. mespiliformis has been reported to demonstrate pharmacological activities, including antimicrobial, antiproliferative, antiparasitic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-hypersensitivity, and antidiabetic properties. The phytochemicals and extracts from D. mespiliformis have been reported to have some pharmacological effects in in vivo studies and were not toxic to the animal models that were utilized. The D. mespiliformis information reported in this review provides researchers with a comprehensive summary of the current research status of this medicinal plant and a guide for further investigation.

Effects of Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L. cv. Mopan) Polysaccharide and Their Carboxymethylated Derivatives on Lactobacillus Strains Proliferation and Gut Microbiota: A Comparative Study

Persimmon is a fruit that contains sugars, vitamins, phenolic compounds, and various other nutrients. The aim of this study was to explore the structure of carboxymethylated persimmon polysaccharide (CM-PFP) and its interaction with the human gut microbiota. Carboxymethyl modification of the persimmon polysaccharide (PFP) increased both the Mw and Mn, enhanced dispersion stability, and decreased thermal stability. Both PFP and CM-PFP promoted the proliferation of Lactobacillus while inhibiting the proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In the simulated fecal fermentation, the pH of PFP- and CM-PFP-containing media decreased, the content of short-chain fatty acids increased, and the abundance of intestinal flora at the phylum and genus levels changed. The relative abundance of harmful intestinal bacteria was significantly reduced in both PFP and CM-PFP groups. Furthermore, it was found that CM-PFP was more easily metabolized than PFP, glucose, and fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) and had a proliferation increase effect on Lactobacillus. Therefore, CM-PFP has a significant positive effect on both Lactobacillus proliferation and the human gut microbiota.

Antibacterial and antibiotic potentiating capabilities of extracts isolated from Burkillanthus malaccensis, Diospyros hasseltii and Cleisthanthus bracteosus against human pathogenic bacteria

Antibiotics which once a boon in medicine and saved millions of lives are now facing an ever-growing menace of antibacterial resistance, which desperately needs new antibacterial drugs which are innovative in chemistry and mode of action. For many years, the world has turned to natural plants with antibacterial properties to combat antibiotic resistance. On that basis, we aimed to identify plants with antibacterial and antibiotic potentiating properties. Seventeen different extracts of 3 plants namely Burkillanthus malaccensis, Diospyros hasseltii and Cleisthanthus bracteosus were tested against multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Antibacterial activity of hexane, methanol and chloroform extracts of bark, seed, fruit, flesh and leaves from these plants were tested using, disk diffusion assay, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays. Antibiotic potentiating capabilities were tested using time-kill assay. B. malaccensis fruit chloroform extract showed the biggest zone of inhibition against MRSA (13.00±0.0 mm) but C. bracteosus bark methanol extract showed the biggest inhibition zone against MSSA (15.33±0.6 mm). Interestingly, bark methanol extract of C. bracteosus was active against MRSA (8.7±0.6 mm), MSSA (7.7±0.6 mm) (Gram-positive) and A. baumannii (7.7±0.6 mm) (Gram-negative). Overall, the leaf methanol and bark methanol extract of C. bracteosus warrants further investigation such as compound isolation and mechanism of action for validating its therapeutic use as antibiotic potentiator importantly against MRSA and A. baumannii.

Efficacy of phospholipid complex of flavonoids from persimmon leaves on atherosclerosis, and possible mechanism

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy of phospholipid complex of flavonoids from persimmon leaves (PLF-PC) on atherosclerosis, and to study its mechanism behind the action.

METHODS

To clarify the constituents of the flavonoids from persimmon leaves (PLF), an ultra-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry method was established. To enhance the anti-atherosclerotic effect of PLF, a newly emerging approach based on the combination of phospholipid complexation technique was employed. PLF-PC was prepared by the solvent-evaporation method then characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Powder X-Ray Diffractometry and Scanning electron microscopy. A model of oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced injury on human umbilical vein endothelial cells was established to investigate the anti-atherosclerotic effect of PLF-PC versus PLF. The levels of nitric oxide, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, intracellular adhesion molecule-1, reactive oxygen species, superoxide dismutase, tumor necrosis factor-αand nuclear factor-κB were observed assay kits.

RESULTS

A total of 31 compounds were identified in PLF. PLF-PC showed better anti-atherosclerotic power compared with PLF, moreover, enzyme linked immune-osorbent assay analysis showed that the PLF-PC may effect on endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis antioxidant-related mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings elucidated that PLF-PC significantly enhanced the PLF's efficacy on atherosclerosis.

Rhamnogalacturonan I-rich polysaccharide isolated from fermented persimmon fruit increases macrophage-stimulatory activity by activating MAPK and NF-κB signaling

BACKGROUND

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is a familiar and widespread fruit, cultivated worldwide. To date, physiological and chemical changes in fermented persimmon fruit and its active compounds have been rarely investigated. Moreover, comparative studies on the pharmacological activities of fermented persimmon fruit-derived compounds have not been reported.

RESULTS

To investigate the effect of traditional fermented foods on immunostimulatory activity, non-fermented persimmon fruit (D. kaki, DK) and fermented persimmon fruit (fermented D. kaki, FDK) were prepared and further fractionated into low- and high-molecular weight fractions. FDK exhibited significantly higher activity toward the production of macrophage-stimulatory mediators compared with that of DK, and the high-molecular weight fraction (FDK-H) isolated from FDK was shown to have more potent activity than FDK. FDK-H not only increased the expression of immunostimulatory genes (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12, and iNOS), but also stimulated the phosphorylation of both MAPK (ERK, JNK, and p38) and NF-κB (p65 and IκB) signaling molecules underlying macrophage activation. The putative chemical characteristic of FDK-H was identified as a pectic rhamnogalacturonan (RG) I-rich polysaccharide with a high molecular weight of 304 kDa containing galacturonic acid, arabinose, rhamnose, and galactose as the major monosaccharide units.

CONCLUSION

The present study reveals that traditional fermentation is a useful method for increasing the macrophage-immunostimulatory activity of persimmon fruit, and the increased activity may be associated with structural modification of persimmon polysaccharides. This study may serve to identify a functional ingredient as an immunostimulatory agent, and our results may be applied to develop a new immunostimulatory product using FDK-H. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Thin layer drying kinetics and quality dynamics of persimmon (Diospyros kaki) treated with preservatives and solar dried under different temperatures

Poor postharvest handling, microbial infestation, and high respiration rate are some the factors are responsible for poor storage life of perishable commodities. Therefore, effective preservation of these commodities is needed to lower the damages and extend shelf life. Preservation is regarded as the action taken to maintain desired properties of a perishable commodity as long as possible. Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is perishable fruit with high nutritive value; however, has very short shelf-life. Therefore, effective preservation and drying is needed to extend its storage life. Drying temperature and preservatives significantly influence the quality of perishable vegetables and fruits during drying. The current study investigated the effect of different temperatures and preservatives on drying kinetics and organoleptic quality attributes of persimmon. Persimmon fruits were treated with preservatives (25% honey, 25% aloe vera, 2% sodium benzoate, 1% potassium metabisulfite, and 2% citric acid solutions) under different drying temperatures (40, 45, and 50°C). All observed parameters were significantly affected by individual effects of temperatures and preservatives, except ash contents. Similarly, interactive effects were significant for all parameters except total soluble sugars, ash contents, and vitamin C. Generally, fruits treated with citric acid and dried under 50°C had 8.2% moisture loss hour^-1, 14.9 drying hours, 0.030 g H₂O g^-1 hr^-1, 1.23° Brix of total soluble solids, 6.71 pH, 1.35% acidity, and 6.3 mg vitamin C. These values were better than the rest of the preservatives and drying temperatures used in the study. Therefore, treating fruits with citric acid and drying at 50°C was found a promising technique to extend storage life of persimmon fruits. It is recommended that persimmon fruits dried at 50°C and preserved in citric acid can be used for longer storage period.

Endothelium-Independent Relaxation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Induced by Persimmon-Derived Polyphenol Phytocomplex in Rats

The vasorelaxant effect of polyphenols is well known, and the mortality rate due to coronary artery disease is low in people who consume polyphenol-containing foods. We aimed to elucidate the mechanism by which polyphenols derived from persimmon juice (PJ) and persimmon leaves (PLs) induce vasorelaxation and suppress vasocontraction in the superior mesenteric arteries isolated from male Sprague Dawley rats. Vasocontraction was induced with 1 µM phenylephrine, and polyphenol-induced vasorelaxation was expressed as a percentage of the previous tone induced by phenylephrine. PJ powder (100 mg/L) induced higher levels of vasorelaxation (mean ± standard error of the mean, 88.6% ± 4.4%) than PLs powder (1 g/L; 72.0% ± 10.8%). Nitric oxide pathway inhibitors (NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester + carboxy-PTIO) did not affect persimmon-derived polyphenol-induced vasorelaxation, whereas potassium chloride, tetraethylammonium, and potassium-channel inhibitors did. Vasorelaxation was endothelium independent with both extracts. Phenylephrine-induced vasocontraction was suppressed by pretreatment with PJ and PLs powder, even when inositol triphosphate-mediated Ca²⁺ release and extracellular Ca²⁺ influx were inhibited. These results suggest that persimmon-derived polyphenol phytocomplex cause vasorelaxation and inhibit vasocontraction through hyperpolarization of smooth muscle cells. Persimmon-derived polyphenols may be able to prevent cardiovascular diseases caused by abnormal contraction of blood vessels.

Antimutagenic Effects of the Composition from Green Tea Leaves Extracts and Caucasian Persimmon Fruits

On a culture of human peripheral blood lymphocytes, antimutagenic activity of a composition from extracts of green tea leaves and Caucasian persimmon fruits was established with a modification of the mutation process induced by chemical compounds producing an alkylating effect (nitrosomethylurea and sodium fluoride). A concentration dependence of the antimutagenic efficiency of the studied phytocomposite was shown. The highest antimutagenic efficiency was observed when a combination of green tea extract at a concentration of 0.01 μg/ml and persimmon fruit extract at a concentration of 0.001 μg/ml were used. Moreover, this combination was most effective against mutations induced by both nitrosomethylurea and sodium fluoride: the antimutagen efficiency factor was 0.53 and 0.55, respectively.

Extraction optimization and structural characterization of pectin from persimmon fruit (Diospyros kaki Thunb. var. Rojo brillante)

In this work we have efficiently extracted and characterized pectin from different tissues of astringent (AS) and non-astringent (NAS) persimmon fruits (peel, pulp, whole fruit) for the first time. The highest pectin extraction (≥7.2%) was carried out at 80 °C, 120 min with 1.5% sodium citrate in peel of both AS and NAS persimmon samples. All persimmon pectins showed a molecular weight and galacturonic acid content upper than 328 kDa and 78%, respectively, indicating their suitability as food ingredient. Pectin extracted from AS pulp and peel tissues exhibited an enriched structure in rhamnose and arabinose, whereas the opposite behavior was observed in NAS persimmon whole fruit samples. Remarkably, both pulp tissues (AS and NAS) presented the highest levels of glucose and mannose, non-pectic carbohydrates. In addition, techno-functional assessment (zeta potential, particle size, apparent viscosity, gelation) showed the suitability of the persimmon pectins for a broad range of industrial applications.

From Diospyros kaki L. (Persimmon) Phytochemical Profile and Health Impact to New Product Perspectives and Waste Valorization

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) fruit's phytochemical profile includes carotenoids, proanthocyanidins, and gallic acid among other phenolic compounds and vitamins. A huge antioxidant potential is present given this richness in antioxidant compounds. These bioactive compounds impact on health benefits. The intersection of nutrition and sustainability, the key idea behind the EAT-Lancet Commission, which could improve human health and decrease the global impact of food-related health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, bring the discussion regarding persimmon beyond the health effects from its consumption, but also on the valorization of a very perishable food that spoils quickly. A broad option of edible products with better storage stability or solutions that apply persimmon and its byproducts in the reinvention of old products or even creating new products, or with new and better packaging for the preservation of food products with postharvest technologies to preserve and extend the shelf-life of persimmon food products. Facing a global food crisis and the climate emergency, new and better day-to-day solutions are needed right now. Therefore, the use of persimmon waste has also been discussed as a good solution to produce biofuel, eco-friendly alternative reductants for fabric dyes, green plant growth regulator, biodegradable and edible films for vegetable packaging, antimicrobial activity against foodborne methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus found in retail pork, anti-Helicobacter pylori agents from pedicel extracts, and persimmon pectin-based emulsifiers to prevent lipid peroxidation, among other solutions presented in the revised literature. It has become clear that the uses for persimmon go far beyond the kitchen table and the health impact consumption demonstrated over the years. The desired sustainable transition is already in progress, however, mechanistic studies and clinical trials are essential and scaling-up is fundamental to the future.

Bioactivities of Phenolic Compounds from Kiwifruit and Persimmon

Fruit used in the common human diet in general, and kiwifruit and persimmon particularly, displays health properties in the prevention of heart disease. This study describes a combination of bioactivity, multivariate data analyses and fluorescence measurements for the differentiating of kiwifruit and persimmon, their quenching and antioxidant properties. The metabolic differences are shown, as well in the results of bioactivities and antioxidant capacities determined by ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC and DPPH assays. To complement the bioactivity of these fruits, the quenching properties between extracted polyphenols and human serum proteins were determined by 3D-fluorescence spectroscopy studies. These properties of the extracted polyphenols in interaction with the main serum proteins in the human metabolism (human serum albumin (HSA), α-β-globulin (α-β G) and fibrinogen (Fgn)), showed that kiwifruit was more reactive than persimmon. There was a direct correlation between the quenching properties of the polyphenols of the investigated fruits with serum human proteins, their relative quantification and bioactivity. The results of metabolites and fluorescence quenching show that these fruits possess multiple properties that have a great potential to be used in industry with emphasis on the formulation of functional foods and in the pharmaceutical industry. Based on the quenching properties of human serum proteins with polyphenols and recent reports in vivo on human studies, we hypothesize that HSA, α-β G and Fgn will be predictors of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Immature Persimmon Suppresses Amyloid Beta (Aβ) Mediated Cognitive Dysfunction via Tau Pathology in ICR Mice

This study confirmed the ameliorating effect of immature persimmon (Diospyros kaki) ethanolic extract (IPEE) on neuronal cytotoxicity in amyloid beta (Aβ)1-42-induced ICR mice. The administration of IPEE ameliorated the cognitive dysfunction in Aβ1-42-induced mice by improving the spatial working memory, the short-term and long-term memory functions. IPEE protected the cerebral cholinergic system, such as the acetylcholine (ACh) level and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and antioxidant system, such as the superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents. In addition, mitochondrial dysfunction against Aβ1-42-induced toxicity was reduced by regulating the reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP contents. In addition, IPEE regulated the expression levels of tau signaling, such as TNF-α, p-JNK, p-Akt, p-GSK3β, p-tau, p-NF-κB, BAX and caspase 3. Finally, gallic acid, ellagic acid and quercetin 3-O-(6″-acetyl-glucoside) were identified as the physiological compounds of IPEE using ultra-performance liquid chromatography ion mobility separation quadrupole time-of-flight/tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC IMS Q-TOF/MS2).

Bio-guided isolation of anti-leishmanial natural products from Diospyros gracilescens L. (Ebenaceae)

BACKGROUND

Plants represent an intricate and innovative source for the discovery of novel therapeutic remedies for the management of infectious diseases. The current study aimed at discovering new inhibitors of Leishmania spp., using anti-leishmanial activity-guided investigation approach of extracts from Diospyros gracilescens Gürke (1911) (Ebenaceae), targeting the extracellular (promastigotes) and intracellular (amastigotes) forms of Leishmania donovani.

METHODS

The plant extracts were prepared by maceration using H20: EtOH (30:70, v/v) and further fractionated using a bio-guided approach. Different concentrations of D. gracilescens extracts, fractions and isolated compounds were tested in triplicate against L. donovani promastigotes and amastigotes in vitro. The antileishmanial potency and cytotoxicity on RAW 264.7 cells were determined using the resazurin colorimetric assay. The time kill kinetic profile of the most active sample was also investigated. The structures of all compounds were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses, including 1D and 2D NMR, and HR-ESI-MS and by comparison of their data with those reported in the literature.

RESULTS

The hydroethanolic crude extract of D. gracilescens trunk showed the most potent antileishmanial activity (IC50 = 5.84 μg/mL). Further fractionation of this extract led to four (4) fractions of which, the hexane fraction showed the most potent activity (IC50 = 0.79 μg/mL), and seven (07) compounds that exhibited moderate potency (IC50 = 13.69-241.71 μM) against L. donovani. Compound 1-deoxyinositol (7) inhibited the promastigote and amastigote forms of L. donovani with IC50 values of 241.71 μM and 120 μM respectively and also showed the highest selectivity against L. donovani promastigotes (SI > 5.04). To the best of our knowledge, the antileishmanial activity of this compound is being reported here for the first time. The promising hexane fraction showed significant inhibition of parasites growth at different concentrations, but with no evidence of cidal effect over an exposure period of 120 h.

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained indicated that the hydroethanolic extract from the D. gracilescens trunk and the derived hexane fraction have very potent inhibitory effect on cultivated promastigotes and amastigotes of L. donovani parasite. The isolated compounds showed a lesser extent of potency and selectivity. However, further structure-activity-relationship studies of 1-deoxyinositol could lead to more potent and selective hit derivatives of interest for detailed drug discovery program against visceral leishmaniasis.

Prevention of the rise in plasma cholesterol and glucose levels by kaki-tannin and characterization of its bile acid binding capacity

BACKGROUND

Bile acid-binding agents, such as cholestyramine and colesevelam, improve both cholesterol and glucose metabolism. Kaki-tannin, a polymerized condensed tannin derived from persimmon (Diospyros kaki), has been shown to have bile acid-binding capacity and a hypocholesterolemic effect. However, its effects on glucose metabolism have not been well studied, and the binding selectivity of kaki-tannin to bile acid molecules has not been reported.

RESULTS

In vivo experiments using mice with high-fat diet-induced obesity showed that kaki-tannin intake (20 g kg^-1 of the diet) increased fecal bile acid excretion by 2.3-fold and prevented a rise in plasma cholesterol levels and fasting plasma glucose levels. Kaki-tannin also suppressed the development of impaired glucose tolerance. To characterize the bile acid-binding capacity of kaki-tannin, we investigated its capacity to bind to eight types of bile acid and cholesterol in vitro. Kaki-tannin showed strong capacity to bind to lithocholic acid (85.5%), which has one hydroxy group. It also showed moderate capacity to bind to bile acids with two hydroxy groups (53.3%), followed by those with three hydroxy groups (39.0%), but kaki-tannin did not show binding capacity to cholesterol. These results suggest that the binding capacity of kaki-tannin to bile acids tends to decrease as the number of hydroxy groups increases. Interestingly, the binding capacity of kaki-tannin correlated with that of cholestyramine (correlation coefficient: r = 0.900).

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that kaki-tannin binds preferentially to bile acids with fewer hydroxy groups and has beneficial effects on glucose metabolism as well as cholesterol metabolism. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of ensiling persimmon peel and grape pomace as tannin-rich byproduct feeds on their chemical composition and in vitro rumen fermentation

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of ensiling fruit byproducts on their chemical composition and in vitro ruminal fermentation. Persimmon peel (PP), white grape pomace (WGP), and red grape pomace (RGP) were ensiled for 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks. Fresh and ensiled PP, WGP, and RGP were used for in vitro rumen fermentation with or without polyethylene glycol (PEG). The non-fiber carbohydrate (NFC) content of the byproducts decreased after ensiling, especially for PP. The total tannin content was not changed after ensiling for up to 4 weeks for all byproducts. However, the soluble tannin content in PP decreased but that in grape pomaces was unaffected by ensiling. Gas production, total volatile fatty acid concentration, and methane production by in vitro rumen fermentation for PP and WGP were reduced by ensiling, and increased by adding PEG, except for gas production from the PP silage. These results indicated that changes in the fractions of carbohydrate and tannins during the ensiling process were different between PP and grape pomace. Even though the insolubilization of tannins in PP during ensiling reduced its inhibitory effect on ruminal fermentability, the ensiling PP seemed to remain the ability to mitigate methanogenesis in the rumen.

Influence of ripening stage and de-astringency treatment on the production of dehydrated persimmon snacks

BACKGROUND

Seasonal persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) crops have steadily increased in Spain; this has been linked to a significant increase in the postharvest production waste. Therefore, development of valorized products is of great interest. In this study, a hot air-drying technique was used to obtain persimmon snacks. Slices from astringent and non-astringent persimmons (submitted to de-astringency treatment) at three different ripening stages were dried at 40 and 60 °C to reach 15 ± 3% water content.

RESULTS

After the drying treatment, dehydrated samples were harder, turned into a more orange hue angle, and had a reduced soluble tannin content. Dehydrated samples obtained from the astringent fruit at the most advanced ripening stage had similar soluble tannin content as the samples obtained from non-astringent fruit, especially at 60 °C. Besides, a high correlation was observed between the level of astringency perceived by consumers and the decrease of soluble tannin content. Although, in the first ripening stage, consumers preferred the snacks obtained from non-astringent fruits; in the last ripening stage, snacks produced from astringent fruits were equally accepted than the non-astringent ones.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, well-accepted persimmon snacks are obtained from both astringent and non-astringent fruits when advanced ripening stages of persimmon are used. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.

Transcriptome Analysis Revealed the Roles of Carbohydrate Metabolism on Differential Acetaldehyde Production Capacity in Persimmon Fruit in Response to High-CO2 Treatment

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) fruit is unique due to the continuous accumulation of soluble tannins during fruit development in most cultivars, which causes undesired astringency. High-CO₂ treatment was the most effective widely used method for astringency removal. However, differential effects of high-CO₂ treatment between cultivars were observed and the molecular basis remained inclusive. Previously, one cultivar ("Luoyangfangtianshengshi," LYFTSS) showed rapid deastringency, while two cultivars ("Shijiazhuanglianhuashi," SJZLHS; "Laopige," LPG) showed slow deastringency in response to high-CO₂ (95% CO₂) treatment. In this study, the metabolites (acetaldehyde and ethanol) related to deastringency were further analyzed and both acetaldehyde and ethanol were higher in SJZLHS and LYFTSS than that in LPG, where acetaldehyde was undetectable. Based on the RNA-seq data, the weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed that one module, comprised of 1773 unigenes, significantly correlated with the contents of acetaldehyde and ethanol (P < 0.001). Further analysis based on the acetaldehyde metabolism pathway indicated that the differentially expressed structural genes, including previously characterized DkADH and DkPDC and also their upstream members (e.g., PFK, phosphofructokinase), showed positive correlations with acetaldehyde production. Quantitative analysis of the precursor substances indicated that sucrose, glucose, and fructose exhibited limited differences between cultivar except for malic acid. However, the content of malic acid is much less than the total soluble sugar content. To verify the correlations between these genes and acetaldehyde production, the fruit from 14 more cultivars were collected and treated with high CO₂. After the treatment, acetaldehyde contents in different cultivars ranked in 30.4-255.5 μg/g FW. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and correlation analysis indicated that the EVM0002315 (PFK) gene, belonging to carbohydrate metabolism, was significantly correlated with acetaldehyde content in fruit. Thus, it could be proposed that the differentially expressed carbohydrate metabolism related genes (especially PFK) are the basis for the variance of acetaldehyde production among different persimmon cultivars.

Valorization of Persimmon and Blueberry Byproducts to Obtain Functional Powders: In Vitro Digestion and Fermentation by Gut Microbiota

Globalization of fruit and vegetable markets generates overproduction, surpluses, and potentially valuable residues. The valorization of these byproducts constitutes a challenge, to ensure sustainability and reintroduce them into the food chain. This work focuses on blueberry and persimmon residues, rich in polyphenols and carotenoids, to obtain powders with high added value to be used as ingredients in food formulation. These powders have been characterized, and the changes in the bioactive compounds in in vitro gastrointestinal digestion have been evaluated. The results indicated that the type of residue, the drying process, as well as the content and type of fiber determine the release of antioxidants during digestion. In vitro colonic fermentations were also performed, and it was observed that the characteristics of digested powders had an effect on the composition of the growing microbial community. Thus, carotenoids and anthocyanins maintain an interplay with microbiota that could be beneficial for human health.

Understanding toward the Biophysical Interaction of Polymeric Proanthocyanidins (Persimmon Condensed Tannins) with Biomembranes: Relevance for Biological Effects

Persimmon condensed tannins (PT) are highly polymerized (mDP = 26) and highly galloylated (72%) proanthocyanidins. Its pleiotropic effects in oxidation resistance, neuroprotection, hypolipidemia, and cardio-protection both in vitro and in vivo were widely reported. Because large proanthocyanidins are unlikely to be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, it is believed that the interaction of PT with biological membranes may play a crucial role in its biological activities. In the present study, the capacities of PT adsorbing to membrane, partitioning into membrane, and its influence on the membrane fluidity were investigated by fluorescence quenching, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and fluorescence anisotropy measurements in a biomembrane-mimetic system composed of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoylphosphatidylcholine (POPC), 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (POPE), sphingomyelin (SPM), and cholesterol (CHOL). Besides, the effects of PT on the morphology and integrity of the cell membrane were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fluorescence staining in the 3T3-L1 cell model. The results suggested that PT could affect cell membrane rafts domains, destroy the cell membrane morphology, and regulate cell membrane fluidity, which might contribute to its biological effects.

Fruits of wild and semi-domesticated Diospyros tree species have contrasting phenological, metabolic, and antioxidant activity profiles

BACKGROUND

In contrast to commercial Diospyros species, Mesoamerican fruit-producing species are scarcely known, particularly wild species that might harbor desirable traits suitable for breeding. Thus, metabolomic, chemical, and antioxidant profiles of fruits harvested from cultivated Diospyros digyna and wild Diospyros rekoi trees during consecutive winter seasons were obtained. Fruits were harvested in habitats having marked differences in soil quality, climate, and luminosity.

RESULTS

D. digyna fruits were larger and less acid than D. rekoi fruits, whereas antioxidant activity tended to be higher in D. rekoi fruits. Phenolic, flavonoid, and sugar contents also varied significantly between species. Metabolomic analysis allowed the pre-identification of 519 and 1665 metabolites in negative and positive electrospray ionization (ESI) modes, respectively. Principal component analysis of the positive ESI data explained 51.8% of the variance and indicated clear metabolomic differences between D. rekoi and D. digyna fruits that were confirmed by direct-injection ESI mass spectrometry profiles. Twenty-one discriminating metabolites were detected in fruits of both species; D. digyna fruits differentially accumulated lysophospholipids, whereas discriminating metabolites in D. rekoi fruits were chemically more diverse than those in D. digyna fruits.

CONCLUSION

Domesticated D. digyna fruits have improved physicochemical fruit traits compared with wild D. rekoi fruits, including larger size and lower acidity. The metabolomic and chemical composition of their respective fruits were also significantly different, which in D. rekoi was manifested as a notable season-dependent increase in antioxidant capacity. Therefore, wild D. rekoi can be considered as an important genetic resource for the improvement of commercial Diospyros fruit quality. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Zeylanone epoxide isolated from Diospyros anisandra stem bark inhibits influenza virus in vitro

Influenza virus infection is a public health problem, causing significant morbidity and mortality. Currently, zanamivir and oseltamivir are in common use, and there are already reports of antiviral resistance. Several studies have shown the antiviral potential of a wide variety of plant-based natural compounds, among them those of the quinone type. In this study, we evaluated the antiviral activity of naphthoquinones isolated from the stem bark of Diospyros anisandra, and we selected zeylanone epoxide (ZEP) to study its effects on influenza A and B viruses. Our results indicated that ZEP inhibits the replication of influenza A and B viruses, at early and middle stages of the replication cycle. Confined nuclear localization of the viral NP indicated that ZEP affects its intracellular distribution and reduces viral yield. This is the first report on the antiviral properties and possible mechanism of action of ZEP in vitro, showing its broad-spectrum activity against influenza A and B viruses.

Influence of ultrasound and osmotic dehydration pretreatments on drying and quality properties of persimmon fruit

In this study, the effect of the ultrasound and osmotic dehydration pretreatments before the convective drying of the persimmon fruit was assessed via their drying behavior and quality properties. Ultrasound-assisted osmotic dehydration (30 °C, 45 °Brix) was performed at 35 kHz for 10, 20, and 30 min. Afterward, samples were placed first in 45 then in 70 °Brix sucrose solutions; the solutions were next shaken at 100 rpm. The control group without ultrasound treatment dehydrated osmotically. The samples were dried in a tray drier at a temperature of 60 °C and an air velocity of 1.5 m/s. Ultrasound-assisted osmotic drying treatments increased water loss and sugar gain; moreover, the osmotic dehydration time was shorter than in the untreated group. The ultrasound-assisted osmotic dehydration demonstrated a significantly decreased drying time, increased drying rates, and a 21% increase in effective water diffusivity by 30 min. The ultrasound pretreated osmotic dehydration prior to hot air-drying decreased the total required drying time. The ultrasound-assisted osmotic dehydration affected the rehydration rate and total phenolic content significantly and there was no significant difference between the color change (ΔE, ΔC, and Hue°) of the ultrasound treatment (30 min) group and the untreated group.

Dermocosmetic emulgels for anti-aging effects: Evidence from chromatographic and non-invasive biophysical techniques

Persimmon Fruits (Diospyros kaki L.f, Ebenaceae) and its active principles have long been used in traditional medicines for various cosmetics and skin conditions, however clinical efficacy on various facial skin parameters like roughness, scaliness, hydration, elasticity and wrinkles have not yet been reported. Current study was aimed to analyse polyphenolic constituents of Diospyros kaki fruit extract (DKFE) and to clinically evaluate dermocosmetic emulgels loaded with bioactive phytoconstituents from persimmon fruits, using non-invasive in-vivo evaluation techniques. HPLC analysis established the presence of quercetin, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, p-coumeric acid, catechin and cinnamic acid. Results revealed that test formulation produced significant and control showed insignificant (p>0.05) effects on moisture contents and elasticity. Surface evaluation of living skin (SELS) index values were reduced significantly (p<0.05) for the emulgels loaded with DKFE, represented by reduction in skin wrinkles (-12.40%), roughness (-11.76%) and scaliness (-18.59%). Conclusively, a safe and compatible dermocosmetic emulgel formulation loaded with antioxidant enriched DKFE, revealed promising anti-aging attributes that may be due to presence of vital polyphenolic constituents as presented by HPLC analysis.

Removal of chromium (VI) from aqueous solutions using Diospyros discolor seed activated with nitric acid: isotherm and kinetic studies

Diospyros discolor seed activated with nitric acid was investigated for removing Cr(VI) from aqueous solutions. Batch experiments were used to determine the adsorption efficiency, effect of pH, adsorption isotherm, and kinetics. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models were used to analyze data of Cr(VI) uptake. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to investigate the functional groups and surface morphology was checked using a scanning electron microscope, coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy. The optimum pH in Cr(VI) uptake was 3.5 and the maximum adsorption efficiency reached 100% at 60 min.

The effect of post-harvest technologies on selected metabolites in persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) fruit

BACKGROUND

Tannins are frequently a main focus in the investigation of de-astringency treatments of persimmon, and the effect of a controlled atmosphere on other phytochemicals is often overlooked. In the present study, changes in the content of total soluble and insoluble phenolics, soluble tannins, saponins, and carotenoids, as well as changes in primary metabolites, were monitored.

RESULTS

Generally, treatment with ethylene induced a decrease in total phenolic content, whereas, when treated with CO₂ , the content of total phenolics remained unchanged compared to the level of total phenolics before treatment. Treatment with apple-sourced ethylene did not significantly affect the level of total phenolics. Additionally, for both varieties, 'Kaki Tipo' and 'Rojo Brillante', the share of insoluble phenolics strongly increased when treated with CO₂ , whereas, when treated with ethylene, the same change applied for the ratio of soluble phenolics. The content of carotenoids varied markedly among treatments and varieties, whereas the content of total saponins remained unchanged, regardless of the treatment and variety.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in the present study show that the content of metabolites in persimmon was affected markedly and variedly using post-harvest technology. Apart from the treatment used, changes in the content of metabolites are also affected markedly by the persimmon variety. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Uptake effects of toxic heavy metals from growth soils into jujube and persimmon of China

Compared with other agricultural plants, information about uptake effects of toxic heavy metals from growth soils into persimmon and jujube are scarce. In this study, the single and comprehensive uptake effects of five toxic heavy metals (Pb, As, Cd, Cr, and Hg) between the two fruits and their growth soils were investigated. The results showed that the average concentrations of heavy metals in the two fruits were found to be 30 (Pb), 6.6 (As), 2.3 (Cd), 38 (Cr), and 0.33 (Hg) μg/kg, respectively. The average concentrations of heavy metals in their growth soils were 26.31 (Pb), 9.63 (As), 0.12 (Cd), 57.6 (Cr), and 0.049 (Hg) mg/kg, respectively. An uptake effect was observed for the two fruits. The values of Nemerow pollution index (NPI) in the two fruits and their growth soils were 0.10 and 0.55, respectively. The average bioconcentration factor (BCF) values of Pb, As, Cd, Cr, and Hg in the two fruits were 0.0012, 0.00075, 0.021, 0.00077, and 0.012, respectively. Based on the residue levels of toxic heavy metals in the growth soils and soil parameters, the prediction models for NPI and BCF were established, with the adjusted regression coefficients of 0.65 (NPI) and 0.81 (BCF). The contribution rates of different soil parameters to NPI were 21.7% (OC), 16.1% (Pb), 17.1% (Cr), 19.8% (Cd), and 25.4% (As), respectively. The contribution rates of different soil parameters to BCF were 10.2% (OC), 9.4% (Cr), and 80.4% (Cd), respectively.

Preparation and characterization of a novel polyethyleneimine cation-modified persimmon tannin bioadsorbent for anionic dye adsorption

A novel and recyclable bioadsorbent (PTP) has been prepared by the cationization of persimmon tannin (PT) using polyethyleneimine (PEI) for application in the removal of the anionic dye methyl orange (MO) from aqueous solution. The physicochemical properties of the prepared PTP were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Zeta potential measurements, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller and thermogravimetric analysis. Systematic batch adsorption experiments were carried out with pH, bioadsorbent dosage, initial MO concentration and contact time. Kinetic regression analysis indicated that the adsorption processes followed the pseudo-second order model. The equilibrium isotherm was in good fit with the Freundlich model with a maximum adsorption capacity of 225.74 mg/g. Thermodynamics data revealed that the adsorption of MO onto PTP was feasible, spontaneous and endothermic. A possible biosorption mechanism was presented where electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, and π-π interactions dominated the adsorption of MO onto PTP. Moreover, the regeneration of the PTP was easily achieved and MO removal efficiency remained high (81.47%) after six cycles. The actual sewage treatment simulation was evaluated and the PTP had a good preference to adsorption MO. All these results indicated that PTP could be considered a high performance and promising candidate for the effective removal of anionic dyes from aqueous solutions.

Inhibitory Effect of Persimmon Tannin on Pancreatic Lipase and the Underlying Mechanism in Vitro

Pancreatic lipase (PL) is a critical enzyme associated with hyperlipidemia and obesity. A previous study of ours suggested that persimmon tannin (PT) was the main component accounting for the antihyperlipidemic effects of persimmon fruits, but the underlying mechanisms were unclear. In this present study, the inhibitory effect of PT on PL was studied and the possible mechanisms were evaluated by fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectra, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and molecular docking. PT had a high affinity to PL and inhibited the activity of PL with the half maximal inhibitory concertation (IC₅₀) value of 0.44 mg/mL in a noncompetitive way. Furthermore, molecular docking revealed that the hydrogen bonding and π-π stacking was mainly responsible for the interaction. The strong inhibition of PT on PL in the gastrointestinal tract might be one mechanism for its lipid-lowering effect.

Persimmon Tannin Decreased the Glycemic Response through Decreasing the Digestibility of Starch and Inhibiting α-Amylase, α-Glucosidase, and Intestinal Glucose Uptake

Regulation of postprandial blood glucose levels is an effective therapeutic proposal for type 2 diabetes treatment. In this study, the effect of persimmon tannin on starch digestion with different amylose levels was investigated both in vitro and in vivo. Oral administration of persimmon tannin-starch complexes significantly suppressed the increase of blood glucose levels and the area under the curve (AUC) in a dose-dependent manner compared with starch treatment alone in an in vivo rat model. Further study proved that persimmon tannin could not only interact with starch directly but also inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase strongly, with IC₅₀ values of 0.35 and 0.24 mg/mL, separately. In addition, 20 μg/mL of persimmon tannin significantly decreased glucose uptake and transport in Caco-2 cells model. Overall, our data suggested that persimmon tannin may alleviate postprandial hyperglycemia through limiting the digestion of starch as well as inhibiting the uptake and transport of glucose.

Effect of particle size on phytochemical composition and antioxidant properties of two persimmon flours from Diospyros kaki Thunb. vars. 'Rojo Brillante' and 'Triumph' co-products

BACKGROUND

This contribution studies the influence of the particle size of persimmon flours (from two cultivars, 'Rojo Brillante' and 'Triumph') on their primary (sugars and organic acids) and secondary (polyphenols, flavonoids and carotenoids) metabolite content, and also on their antioxidant activity, to assess whether these flours could find applications in the food industry as a potential functional ingredient.

RESULTS

The main sugars were fructose and glucose and the principal organic acid was malic acid. The highest content of total phenols, flavonoids and carotenoids was found in flour fractions from cv. 'Rojo Brillante'. The phenol profile determined by HPLC identified six phenolic compounds in both persimmon flours, the most abundant being gallic acid. The greatest ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging capacity and ferric reducing power were found in flour fractions from cv. 'Rojo Brillante'. Although the influence of particle size on all these properties was not always evident, in general, the higher bioactive compound content and antioxidant capacity were in the finest particles.

CONCLUSION

Co-products from cvs. 'Rojo Brillante' and 'Triumph' persimmon juice extraction can be processed to obtain flours rich in sugars, organic acids and bioactive compounds, suggesting their possible use as a functional ingredient (with antioxidant properties) in different food products. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Models to improve the non-destructive analysis of persimmon fruit properties by VIS/NIR spectrometry

BACKGROUND

Visible-near-infrared spectrometry is a technique suitable for assessing chemical and physiological properties of fruit. Some models of calibration/prediction have been tested in order to assess the feasibility of a visible-near-infrared sensor in order to monitor persimmon fruit colour, firmness, soluble solids, titratable acidity and soluble tannins.

RESULTS

Five regression models were investigated: principal component, partial least squares, stepwise, support vector machines and ensembles of trees. These models were assessed by a 10-fold cross-validation with a new strategy for both outlier removal and wavelength reduction; furthermore, their statistical significance was evaluated by 100 Monte Carlo simulation runs. Principal component regression allowed us to build excellent and/or very good fit/prediction models. The results (in terms of RPD as standard deviation to performance standard error ratio) are: 9.23 (±0.26) for colour index, 10.18 (±0.37) for firmness, 7.15 (±0.28) for soluble solids content, 7.87 (±0.31) for titratable acidity and 8.91 (±0.33) for soluble tannins content.

CONCLUSION

The proposed strategy, for outlier removal and wavelength reduction, allowed the achievement of useful results. Principal component regression fit/prediction capability produced excellent results. Conversely, partial least squares regression showed fair/poor results and the remaining tested models performed badly on real data. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effects of bark washing and epiphytic moss on 137Cs activity concentration in bark and stemflow in Japanese persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.)

The effects of bark washing, and of epiphytic moss growing on the bark surfaces, on the ¹³⁷Cs activity concentrations in bark and stemflow samples were evaluated at two Japanese persimmon orchards located in Fukushima City and Date City, both approximately 60-65 km northwest of the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant. The means of ¹³⁷Cs in stemflow captured by 1 g of sphagnum placed on the main trunks of washed and unwashed trees, and on sites with moss and with no moss growing on bark of the non-washed trees in Date City, were 0.37 Bq, 1.08Bq, 0.77 Bq and 0.52 Bq respectively. The ¹³⁷Cs was significantly lower in the washed bark and in the absence of moss at p = 0.00031 and p = 0.0443 by t-test respectively. The ¹³⁷Cs in directly-collected stemflow on the main trunks was significantly higher for the unwashed tree at 6.0 Bq L^-1 compared with the washed tree at 1.1 Bq L^-1 (p = 0.017 by Tukey's test). The extraction rate of dissolved ¹³⁷Cs with deionized water was 7.3% even after stirring for 40 h. These results indicate that the moss acts as reservoir of ¹³⁷Cs, and that bark-washing decontamination can reduce the additional ¹³⁷Cs supply from moss in subsequent years following the radioactive fallout.

Molecular Affinity of Mabolo Extracts to an Octopamine Receptor of a Fruit Fly

Essential oils extracted from plants are composed of volatile organic compounds that can affect insect behavior. Identifying the active components of the essential oils to their biochemical target is necessary to design novel biopesticides. In this study, essential oils extracted from Diospyros discolor (Willd.) were analyzed using gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) to create an untargeted metabolite profile. Subsequently, a conformational ensemble of the Drosophila melanogaster octopamine receptor in mushroom bodies (OAMB) was created from a molecular dynamics simulation to resemble a flexible receptor for docking studies. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of several metabolites, i.e. mostly aromatic esters. Interestingly, these aromatic esters were found to exhibit relatively higher binding affinities to OAMB than the receptor's natural agonist, octopamine. The molecular origin of this observed enhanced affinity is the π -stacking interaction between the aromatic moieties of the residues and ligands. This strategy, computational inspection in tandem with untargeted metabolomics, may provide insights in screening the essential oils as potential OAMB inhibitors.

Persimmon Fruit Powder May Substitute Indolbi, a Synthetic Growth Regulator, in Soybean Sprout Cultivation

Soybean sprouts are a major food item in Korea. Various studies have been carried out to enhance their yield and nutritional values. The objective of the present study was to examine the influence of persimmon fruit powder and Indolbi, a synthetic plant growth regulator, on the yield and nutritional value of soybean sprouts. Seeds were soaked in tap water containing 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.5% and 5.0% (w/v) persimmon fruit powder and the samples were named as PT-1, PT-2, PT-3, and PT-4, respectively. The yield increment was almost doubled in PT-3 and PT-4 than in the Indolbi treated sprouts on basis of the control. Vitamin C, isoflavones, and total phenolic contents as well as antioxidant potentials (determined by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and superoxide anion radical scavenging assays) were also significantly (p < 0.05) higher in PT-3 compared to the Indolbi treatment and the control. However, total free amino acid and magnesium contents of Indolbi- applied sprouts were higher than in the fruit powder treatments. The overall results of the present study showed that persimmon fruit powder can be an option to enhance the yield and nutritional value of soybean sprouts since, due to potential health hazards, the use of synthetic chemicals like Indolbi is less preferred than the natural products.

Persimmon-derived tannin has bacteriostatic and anti-inflammatory activity in a murine model of Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) disease

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), including Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), cause opportunistic chronic pulmonary infections. Notably, MAC susceptibility is regulated by various factors, including the host immune system. Persimmon (Ebenaceae Diospyros kaki Thunb.) tannin is a condensed tannin composed of a polymer of catechin groups. It is well known that condensed tannins have high antioxidant activity and bacteriostatic properties. However, it is hypothesized that condensed tannins might need to be digested and/or fermented into smaller molecules in vivo prior to being absorbed into the body to perform beneficial functions. In this study, we evaluated the effects of soluble persimmon-derived tannins on opportunistic MAC disease. Soluble tannins were hydrolyzed and evaluated by the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method. The ORAC value of soluble tannin hydrolysate was approximately five times greater than that of soluble tannin powder. In addition, soluble tannin hydrolysate exhibited high bacteriostatic activity against MAC in vitro. Furthermore, in an in vivo study, MAC infected mice fed a soluble tannin-containing diet showed significantly higher anti-bacterial activity against MAC and less pulmonary granuloma formation compared with those fed a control diet. Tumor necrosis factor α and inducible nitric oxide synthase levels were significantly lower in lungs of the soluble tannin diet group compared with the control diet group. Moreover, proinflammatory cytokines induced by MAC stimulation of bone marrow-derived macrophages were significantly decreased by addition of soluble tannin hydrolysate. These data suggest that soluble tannin from persimmons might attenuate the pathogenesis of pulmonary NTM infection.

Assessment of the Therapeutic Potential of Persimmon Leaf Extract on Prediabetic Subjects

Dietary supplements have exhibited myriads of positive health effects on human health conditions and with the advent of new technological advances, including in the fields of proteomics, genomics, and metabolomics, biological and pharmacological activities of dietary supplements are being evaluated for their ameliorative effects in human ailments. Recent interests in understanding and discovering the molecular targets of phytochemical-gene-protein-metabolite dynamics resulted in discovery of a few protein signature candidates that could potentially be used to assess the effects of dietary supplements on human health. Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is a folk medicine, commonly used as dietary supplement in China, Japan, and South Korea, owing to its different beneficial health effects including anti-diabetic implications. However, neither mechanism of action nor molecular biomarkers have been discovered that could either validate or be used to evaluate effects of persimmon on human health. In present study, Mass Spectrometry (MS)-based proteomic studies were accomplished to discover proteomic molecular signatures that could be used to understand therapeutic potentials of persimmon leaf extract (PLE) in diabetes amelioration. Saliva, serum, and urine samples were analyzed and we propose that salivary proteins can be used for evaluating treatment effectiveness and in improving patient compliance. The present discovery proteomics study demonstrates that salivary proteomic profile changes were found as a result of PLE treatment in prediabetic subjects that could specifically be used as potential protein signature candidates.

Dyospiros kaki phenolics inhibit colitis and colon cancer cell proliferation, but not gelatinase activities

Polyphenols from persimmon (Diospyros kaki) have demonstrated radical-scavenging and antiinflammatory activities; however, little is known about the effects of persimmon phenolics on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and colorectal cancer (CRC). Therefore, we aimed in this work to characterize the antiinflammatory and antiproliferative effects of a persimmon phenolic extract (80% acetone in water), using an in vivo model of experimental colitis and a model of cancer cell invasion. Our results show, for the first time, a beneficial effect of a persimmon phenolic extract in the attenuation of experimental colitis and a potential antiproliferative effect on cultured colon cancer cells. Administration of persimmon phenolic extract to mice with TNBS-induced colitis led to a reduction in several functional and histological markers of colon inflammation, namely: attenuation of colon length decrease, reduction of the extent of visible injury (ulcer formation), decrease in diarrhea severity, reduced mortality rate, reduction of mucosal hemorrhage and reduction of general histological features of colon inflammation. In vitro studies also showed that persimmon phenolic extract successfully impaired cell proliferation and invasion in HT-29 cells. Further investigation showed a decreased expression of COX-2 and iNOS in the colonic tissue of colitis mice, two important mediators of intestinal inflammation, but there was no inhibition of the gelatinase MMP-9 and MMP-2 activities. Given the role of inflammatory processes in the progression of CRC and the important link between inflammation and cancer, our results highlight the potential of persimmon polyphenols as a pharmacological tool in the treatment of patients with IBD.

Key environmental processes affecting the fate of the insecticide chloropyrifos applied to leaves

Chlorpyrifos (CP) is still a commonly employed organophosphorus insecticide worldwide. In semi-arid and Mediterranean climates, applied CP is expected to remain on leaves surfaces for relatively long time due to the lack of summer rains and common use of drip irrigation. The present work examines the loss rate of CP from leaves via different surface processes: evaporation, direct photolysis and reactions with ozone and OH radicals. Laboratory experiments showed that evaporation rate constant of CP increased from 0.109 to 0.492 h^-1 with the increase in wind speed up to 4 m/s. First-order rate constant of direct photolysis, measured using a solar simulator, was k'_UV = 1.15 (±0.01) x 10^-20 cm² photon^-1. Second-order rate constants for the reaction of CP with ozone and OH were measured as 6 × 10^-20 and 6 × 10^-12 cm³ molecule^-1 s^-1, respectively. The above rate constants were applied successfully in an outdoor experiment to predict the disappearance of chloropyrifos under specific environmental conditions. Further modeling showed that the insecticide half-life time on exposed surfaces under typical Mediterranean environment will be in the range of 0.9-6.9 h. Evaporation is expected to be the dominant removal path under most environmental conditions, followed by direct photolysis and reaction with OH.

Evaluation of Particle Size Influence on Proximate Composition, Physicochemical, Techno-Functional and Physio-Functional Properties of Flours Obtained from Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Trumb.) Coproducts

The aim of the work was to study the influence of particle size in the composition, physicochemical, techno-functional and physio-functional properties of two flours obtained from persimmon (Diospyros kaki Trumb. cvs. 'Rojo Brillante' (RBF) and 'Triump' (THF) coproducts. The cultivar (RBF and THF) and particle size significantly affected all parameters under study, although depending on the evaluated property, only one of these effects predominated. Carbohydrates (38.07-46.98 g/100 g) and total dietary fiber (32.07-43.57 g/100 g) were the main components in both flours (RBF and THF). Furthermore, insoluble dietary fiber represented more than 68% of total dietary fiber content. All color properties studied were influenced by cultivar and particle size. For both cultivars, the lower particle size, the higher lightness and hue values. RBF flours showed high values for emulsifying activity (69.33-74.00 mL/mL), while THF presented high values for water holding capacity (WHC: 9.47-12.19 g water/g sample). The bile holding capacity (BHC) and fat/oil binding values were, in general, higher in RBF (19.61-12.19 g bile/g sample and 11.98-9.07, respectively) than THF (16.12-12.40 g bile/g sample and 9.78-7.96, respectively). The effect of particle size was really evident in both WHC and BHC. Due to their dietary fiber content, techno-functional and physio-functional properties, persimmon flours seem to have a good profile to be used as potential functional ingredient.

Antibacterial activities of Diospyros blancoi, Phoenix dactylifera and Morus nigra against dental caries causing pathogens: An in vitro study

The study was undertaken to determine the in-vitro antibacterial potential of Diospyrosblancoi, Phoenix dactylifera and Morusnigra leaf extracts in hexane, chloroform, methanol, ethyl-acetate and aqueous extracts against dental caries causing bacteria. Disc diffusion assay was used to determine the antibacterial efficacy; the extracts were further separated using Thin Layer Chromatography and the anti-biofilm activity of the extracts was also determined. The preliminary phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presences of flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids and tannins because of which the extracts showed strong antibacterial activity against the selected pathogens. The ethyl-acetate extracts showed maximum inhibitory effect on biofilm formation by S. mutans.96% inhibition was observed in methanol extract of Diospyrosblancoi, and 95% in ethyl acetate extract. The results evidenced that the plants inhibit the growth of oral bacteria responsible for dental caries with their abundance source of secondary metabolites and can be used as an alternative treatment for caries, thus minimizing the antibiotics used to treat the disease in local medicine.

Extraction, purification and anti-radiation activity of persimmon tannin from Diospyros kaki L.f

In this study, persimmon tannin was extracted from Diospyros kaki L.f. using ultrasound-assisted extraction and purified by D101 macroporous resin column chromatography and polysulfone ultrafiltration membrane. The tannin content of the final persimmon tannin extracts was attained to 39.56% calculated as catechin equivalents. Also, the radioprotective effects of persimmon tannin for HEK 293T cells proliferation and apoptosis after Gamma irradiation were investigated by CCK-8, Hoechst 33258 staining, flow cytometry assay and intracellular reactive oxygen species assay (ROS). Persimmon tannin was pre-incubated with HEK 293T cells for 12 h prior to Gamma irradiation. It was found that pretreatment with persimmon tannin increased cell viability and inhibited generation of Gamma-radiation induced ROS in HEK 293T cells exposed to 8 Gy Gamma-radiation. The percentage of apoptotic cells were only 6.7% when the radiation dose was 8 Gy and pretreated with 200 μg/ml of persimmon tannin. All these results indicated that persimmon tannin offered a potent radioprotective effect on cell vitality and cell apoptosis of Gamma-radiation exposure in HEK 293T cells. This study would serve as a pre-clinical evaluation of persimmon tannin for use in people with radiation protection.

Effects of phospholipid complexes of total flavonoids from Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) leaves on experimental atherosclerosis rats

The total flavonoids from Persimmon leaves (PLF), extracted from the leaves of Diospyros kaki L. Dispryosl and Ebenaceae, is reported to possess many beneficial health effects. However, the oral bioavailability of PLF is relatively low due to its poor solubility. In the present study, the phospholipid complexes of total flavonoids from Persimmon leaves (PLF-PC) was prepared to enhance the oral bioavailability of PLF and to evaluate its antiatherosclerotic properties in atherosclerosis rats in comparison to PLF. A HPLC-MS method was developed and validated for the determination of quercetin and kaempferol in rats plasma to assess the oral bioavailability of PLF-PC. The effect of PLF (50mg/kg/d) and PLF-PC (equivalent to PLF 50mg/kg/d) on atherosclerosis rats induced by excessive administration of vitamin D (600,000IU/kg) and cholesterol (0.5g/kg/d) was assessed after orally administered for 4 weeks. The relative bioavailabilities of quercetin and kaempferol in PLF-PC relative to PLF were 242% and 337%, respectively. The levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) in serum were measured by an automatic biochemistry analyzer. The morphological changes of aorta were observed with optical microscopy. According to the levels of biochemical parameters in serum and the morphological changes of aorta, PLF-PC showed better therapeutic efficacy compared to PLF. Thus, PLF-PC holds a promising potential for increasing the oral bioavailability of PLF. Moreover, PLF-PC exerts better therapeutic potential in the treatment of atherosclerotic disease than PLF.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects and Mechanisms of Action of Coussaric and Betulinic Acids Isolated from Diospyros kaki in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Diospyros kaki Thunb. is widely distributed in East Asian countries, its leaves being mainly used for making tea. In this study, coussaric acid (CA) and betulinic acid (BA), both triterpenoid compounds, were obtained from D. kaki leaf extracts through bioassay-guided isolation. CA and BA showed anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway, providing important information on their anti-inflammatory mechanism. Furthermore, they markedly inhibited nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages, and suppressed tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels. Furthermore, they decreased protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2. Pre-treatment with CA and BA inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB. We further examined the effects of CA and BA on heme oxygenase (HO)-1 expression in RAW 264.7 macrophages: BA induced HO-1 protein expression in a dose-dependent manner, while CA had no effect. We also investigated whether BA treatment induced nuclear translocation of Nrf2. BA inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB-binding activity, as well as pro-inflammatory mediator and cytokine production (e.g., NO, PGE₂, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), by partial reversal of this effect by SnPP, an inhibitor of HO-1. These findings further elucidate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of CA and BA isolated from D. kaki.

Phenolic Compounds and In Vitro Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Three Tropic Fruits: Persimmon, Guava, and Sweetsop

In our previous study, we have found that persimmon, guava, and sweetsop owned considerably high antioxidant activity and contained high total phenolic contents as well. In order to further supply information on the antibacterial and antioxidant activity of these three tropic fruits, they were extracted by 80% methanol. We then examined the extractions about their phenolic compounds and also studied the extractions and phenolic contents about their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against twelve targeted pathogens including 8 standard strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Monilia albican, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Shigella flexneri, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and 4 multidrug-resistant strains (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, ESBLs-producing Escherichia coli, carbapenems-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii), which are common and comprehensive in clinic. We also employed two ways, that is, FRAP and TEAC, to evaluate their antioxidant activities, using ultraviolet and visible spectrophotometer. Our study indicated that the three tropical fruits possessed obvious antioxidant and antibacterial activity, which supported the possibility of developing the fruits into new natural resource food and functional food as well as new natural antimicrobial agent and food preservatives. Moreover, phenolic compounds detected in the fruits could be used as a potential natural antibacterial agent and antioxidant.