Search Results (1,455)

The residual cake obtained after extracting oil from Moringa oleifera seeds is a promising source of plant-based proteins due to its high content of proteins, dietary fibre and essential minerals. However, its food applications are limited by a strong bitter taste that affects consumer acceptance and antinutritional compounds that reduce mineral bioavailability such as phytates. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of saline and ethanol treatments of moringa cake—reported in the literature as improving its sensory properties—on its nutritional profile. Proximal composition was determined by gravimetry for moisture, muffle incineration for ash, and solvent extraction with the Randall method for lipids. Protein content was analyzed using the Dumas combustion method. Mineral elements (calcium, iron, zinc, sodium) were quantified by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and phytates by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The untreated cake revealed a favourable nutritional profile, mainly due to its protein content, but also contained high phytate levels. Both treatments slightly reduced phytates (5–12%), with saline extraction proving more effective. Nevertheless, mineral loss was observed, while there was a notable increase in sodium in the saline-treated samples. Ethanol treatment, in contrast, led to a statistically marked reduction in residual lipids. Importantly, both treatments diminished the bitter taste, improving sensory acceptability. Although neither method completely eliminated phytates, the overall improvements in protein quality, mineral profile, and sensory properties highlight the potential of moringa residual cake as a valuable ingredient. Thus, it emerges as a sustainable, high-nutritional-value source of plant proteins for the development of innovative food products. Full article

Natural peptides derived from plants have been an important source of medical substances for several decades. Due to their mechanism of action, chemical potential, and favourable side effect profile, these peptides represent a safer alternative to synthetic pharmaceutical treatments. In this study, we report the discovery of a natural peptide derived from the Brassica napus (Canola) proteome that exhibits high functional similarity to an artificial intelligence (AI)-generated peptide that is designed to bind to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike 1 (S1) protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) region. The results of a series of experiments including molecular docking simulations, as well as binding and inhibition assays suggest that the natural peptide exhibits functions similar to those of the AI-generated peptide in binding to the RBD region and disrupting its interaction with the human host receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). This study demonstrates the potential of AI-designed peptides to facilitate the identification of natural peptides with similar functional properties. Full article

Consumer interest in alternative protein sources has grown rapidly, driven by concerns over health, sustainability and environmental impact. This study investigated perceptions, attitudes and behaviours towards alternative proteins among residents of Piedmont, northwestern Italy. A cross-sectional online and face-to-face survey was conducted between August and October 2023, collecting sociodemographic data, dietary habits, and respondents’ perception on plant-, insect-, snail-, and algae-derived products. Responses from 627 participants were analysed. Approximately one-third reported consuming alternative proteins, with uptake being higher among women, younger adults, and flexitarian respondents. Plant-based alternatives were by far the most frequently consumed, while insect- and snail-based products elicited strong aversion. Curiosity and interest on alternative options predominated among consumers, whereas indifference and disgust—particularly among women and towards animal-derived options—were common among non-consumers. Reported barriers included taste, quality, and safety concerns, with price emerging as a major constraint. These findings indicate that acceptance of alternative proteins is unevenly distributed across demographic groups and product types. Plant-based options currently appear best positioned to facilitate dietary shifts, whereas animal-derived alternatives remain hindered by cultural and sensory barriers. Supporting the protein transition will require strategies to improve affordability, sensory appeal and consumer trust. Full article

Natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDESs) have emerged as green and sustainable alternative solvents for extracting valuable bioactive compounds from agro-industrial by-products. NaDESs are stable, soluble, and biodegradable with low melting points and a wide range of applications. These characteristics align closely with the principles of green chemistry, making NaDESs promising for use in the food industry. Recent studies demonstrate that NaDESs can effectively extract proteins, polysaccharides, polyphenols, carotenoids, alkaloids, and other bioactives from sources such as vegetable waste, cereal by-products, and fruit pomace, often performing better than traditional solvents such as methanol and ethanol. The bioactive components of these extracts may exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, anticancer, or antimicrobial activity and can be used as functional ingredients, nutraceuticals, or preservatives. Furthermore, NaDES-derived extracts have been shown to have hypoglycemic effects by inhibiting enzymes involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and reducing oxidative stress. As a result, they may find use as functional food ingredients in diabetes management. This review presents the recent research on the extraction of bioactive compounds from agro-industrial by-products using NaDESs and an evaluation of their antidiabetic potential. Full article

Proteomics of dystrophic muscle samples is limited by the amount of protein that can be extracted from patient biopsies. Cells and tissues derived from patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be an expandable alternative source. We have patterned iPSCs from three Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patient lines into skeletal muscle cells using a two-dimensional as well as our three-dimensional organoid differentiation system. Probes with sufficient protein amounts could be extracted and prepared for mass spectrometry. In total, 3007 proteins in 2D and 2709 proteins in 3D were detected in DMD patient probes. A total of 83 proteins in 2D and 338 proteins in 3D can be described as differentially expressed between DMD and control patient probes in a post hoc test. We have identified and we propose Myosin-9, Collagen 18A, Tropomyosin 1, BASP1, RUVBL1, and NCAM1 as proteins specifically altered in their expression in DMD for further investigation. Proteomics of skeletal muscle organoids resulted in greater consistency of results between cell lines in comparison to the two-dimensional myogenic differentiation protocol. Full article

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are essential regulators of numerous biological processes through their interactions with growth factors, chemokines, cytokines, and enzymes. Their structural diversity and heterogeneity, however, limit reproducibility and translational use, as native GAGs are typically obtained from animal-derived sources with notable batch-to-batch variability. To overcome these challenges, a wide range of GAG mimetics has been developed with the aim of replicating or modulating the biological functions of native GAGs while offering improved structural definition, accessibility, and therapeutic potential. Polysaccharide-based GAG mimetics, including derivatives of heparan sulfate, hyaluronan, dextran, and other natural glycans, represent one major strategy, whereas non-saccharide-based mimetics provide alternative scaffolds with enhanced stability and selectivity. Both approaches have yielded compounds that serve as valuable tools for dissecting GAG/protein interactions and as candidates for therapeutic development. Biomedical applications of GAG mimetics span diverse areas such as cancer, cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases, bone and cartilage regeneration, wound healing, and infectious diseases. This mini-review summarizes key developments in the design and synthesis of GAG mimetics, highlights their potential biomedical applications, and discusses current challenges and future perspectives in advancing them toward clinical translation. Full article

Background: Plant-based diets have been widely recommended as sustainable, ethical, and health-conscious alternatives. However, their adoption remains limited due to nutritional and cultural concerns, which may be reinforced in contexts associated with masculinity. This study aimed to explore (a) whether physical activity represents a barrier to plant-based food choices, and (b) whether beliefs about plant-based diets differ between sedentary and physically active individuals. Methods: A mixed-methods study was conducted, combining focus groups and survey data. Twenty-six Italian volunteers were divided into four groups: (I) physically active omnivores; (II) sedentary omnivores; (III) physically active veg*ans; and (IV) sedentary veg*ans. The discussions focused on protein-rich foods (animal-based vs. plant-based) and addressed nutritional concerns related to athletic performance, as well as attitudes toward plant-based proteins and veg*an individuals. Results: Omnivores—particularly active ones—favored animal-based proteins, perceiving them as more palatable, nutritious, and better suited for physical performance, a view often reinforced by coaches. This group also emphasized sensory pleasure as a barrier to adopting plant-based alternatives. It addressed masculinity-related themes more frequently; moreover, while veg*an participants were more inclined to seek professional advice to ensure a balanced diet, omnivores referred to the traditional Mediterranean diet as their primary source of nutritional guidance. This factor may further hinder openness to plant-based choices. Conclusions: The findings highlight stronger stigma among physically active individuals and suggest the need for interventions that replace the current narrative of plant-based diets as a restrictive or dietetic alternative with one that frames it as compatible with strength, vitality, and overall well-being. Full article

A sustainable economy and the drive to reduce agro-industrial waste worldwide motivate the increased interest in alternative uses of traditionally cultivated plants such as tobacco. Tobacco seeds are an underutilized resource with enormous potential for application in various areas of human life. The present study aims to characterize the phytochemical composition and nutritional potential of Oriental tobacco seeds grown in Bulgaria, in order to support their possible application in areas outside the tobacco industry. Two Oriental tobacco varieties (“Krumovgrad 90” and “Krumovgrad 58”) from three production regions were explored and comparatively evaluated in terms of their physical and chemical indicators, determined by standardized methods. The results showed high protein (22.57–23.84%) and energy content (482–531 kcal/100 g), combined with relatively low carbohydrate levels (3.79–4.03%) and the presence of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols (288–357 mg GAE/100 g). The seeds contained significant amount of oil (36.31–39.24%), of which the fatty acid profile included 16 identified components, with linoleic (72.0–74.4%), oleic (11.2–13.5%), palmitic (9.6–10.2%), and stearic (1.8–2.5%) acids taking the greatest share. The sterol fraction was dominated by β-sitosterol (43.5–46.8%), followed by sitostanol, campesterol and stigmasterol, with a stable distribution between the samples. The main tocol was γ-tocotrienol (56.5–61.4%), with α-tocotrienol being detected only in one of the varieties (“Krumovgrad 58”, 13.3%). The phospholipid fraction showed variations between the samples, with a dominant presence of phosphatidylinositol (18.0–20.4%). The results from the study confirmed the tangible potential of tobacco seeds as a source of biologically active substances in the development of functional foods and dietary supplements. Full article

In recent decades, the consumption of animal proteins has been rethought by consumers. Factors such as improved health and sustainability are key aspects of this scenario. Studies have sought innovative and sustainable technologies to improve protein extraction from alternative sources to increase their competitiveness. In this sense, the aim of this work was to combine the effects of nonconventional extraction methods on the process yield and the resulting techno-functional properties extracted from alternative proteins. The literature contains significant publications regarding the use of ultrasound (US), pulsed electric fields (PEFs), microwaves (MWs) and deep eutectic solvents (DESs) for enhancing protein extraction. Re-emerged techniques such as reverse micelles and aqueous two-phase extraction have also been reported. For this reason, the present study aimed not only to present the obtained results but also to discuss how the mechanisms associated with the aforementioned technologies impact the extraction yield and modification of proteins. In general, US tends to increase protein solubility (20–30%) and emulsifying capacity (35%); MWs can increase protein yield (25%) while reducing extraction time (50–70%); DES-based extraction tends to retain more than ~40% of the native functionality, and PEFs have demonstrated up to a 20% improvement in protein recovery. Nonconventional extraction methods have varying effects on the characteristics and quality of extracted proteins, offering benefits and challenges that should be considered when choosing the most suitable technology. The specificity related to each technology can be used to make possible interesting industrial applications involving nonanimal proteins. Full article

Mushrooms have long been recognized as a rich source of bioactive compounds, including phenolics, that possess important antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties, including activity against drug-resistant bacteria. This study evaluated total phenolic profile and content, total flavonoids content, the antioxidant activities, antimicrobial and antibacterial activities, of water extracts of edible mushrooms from Romanian deciduous forests, including Cantharellus cibarius, Russula virescens, Lactarius piperatus, and Boletus edulis. The extracts were characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. Antioxidant activity was determined using DPPH radical-scavenging activity and ABTS radical cation decolorization assay. Antimicrobial and antibacterial activities were tested using standard strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae following diffusion testing and time-killing assay, respectively. The HPLC-MS results indicated that major compounds in all the mushrooms belonged to the subclass of hydroxybenzoic acids. Trans-cinnamic acid and hydroxybenzoic acids, particularly gallic acid, 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid, and gentisic acid, were the predominant compounds detected in BEE and CCE. Their concentrations were measured as follows: 24 μg/mL, 63 μg/mL, 56 μg/mL, and 14 μg/mL, respectively, for BEE, and 26 μg/mL, 42 μg/mL, 7 μg/mL, and 5 μg/mL, respectively, for CCE. Among phenolic compounds, 2-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid, p-anisaldehyde, and gentisic acid were positively correlated with both DPPH (45% and 21% inhibition rate for BEE and CCE, respectively) and ABTS (64 and 31% inhibition rate for BEE and CCE, respectively) antioxidant activities. The FTIR analysis revealed the presence of lipids, proteins, and polysaccharides, extracted in different ratios in the water extract. All mushroom extracts showed a dose-dependent response with higher antimicrobial and antibacterial activities at the highest concentration (26.3 µg phenolics BEE, 12.7 µg pphenolics CCE, 28.3 µg phenolics LPE, and 14.5 µg phenolics RVE per well for antimicrobial activity and 175.2 µg phenolics/mL BEE, 84.4 µg phenolics/mL CCE, and 188.9 µg phenolics/mL LPE for antibacterial activity). These species demonstrate potential for the development of alternative antimicrobial formulations, particularly relevant in the context of antibiotic resistance. Full article

Wheat-based bakery products are important sources of energy and micronutrients; however, their protein content is lower than that of animal-based foods, and they generally have a high glycemic index. Therefore, incorporating other ingredients could improve the nutritional properties of this type of product. The partial replacement of wheat flour with flours made from other cereals, legumes, and oilseeds has been evaluated, which complements the amino acid profile, improves the rheological properties of the dough, and increases the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Similarly, the addition of flour from insects has recently gained relevance due to its high biological value protein content, as well as its low production costs and reduced environmental impact. On the other hand, the use of agro-industrial residues such as cheese whey has stood out for its potential for addition to some bread and pastry products, increasing their nutritional value. Therefore, the incorporation of alternative proteins is becoming a valuable tool for developing these types of products, improving their nutritional properties to prevent or control chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, etc. However, it is important to analyze the incorporation of these ingredients at each stage of production to achieve adequate rheological properties. Likewise, it is necessary to evaluate consumer acceptance, product safety, and the corresponding regulations. This review will address different options for alternative ingredients that can partially replace wheat-based formulations, as well as how they impact the nutritional value and techno-functional properties of these products. Full article

Urea is one of the most widely used sources of non-protein nitrogen (NPN) in ruminant diets due to its low cost and high availability. However, its rapid solubilization in the rumen can result in abrupt ammonia release, leading to toxicity risks and low nitrogen utilization efficiency. In this context, slow-release technologies, particularly microencapsulation, have been developed to synchronize NPN release with fermentable carbohydrate availability, thereby enhancing microbial protein synthesis, improving animal performance, and reducing environmental impacts. This review compiles recent advances in urea microencapsulation, emphasizing different wall materials such as waxes, lipids, polysaccharides, and fatty acids, as well as drying techniques and formulation strategies. Slow-release urea (SRU) addition in small ruminants’ diet may increase nutrient intake and digestibility, improve N balance, and reduce urinary excretion losses. Regarding performance, positive responses are observed when nitrogen release is properly synchronized with energy availability, although the results may vary depending on the encapsulant type, forage-to-concentrate ratio, and ruminal passage rate. Additionally, effects on meat quality and environmental parameters indicate that this technology holds not only zootechnical but also socio-environmental potential. It is concluded that urea microencapsulation can represent a promising alternative to optimize NPN use efficiency in ruminant production systems, though greater methodological standardization, long-term evaluations, and comparative economic analyses are required to encourage its broader adoption. Full article

Background: In recent decades, malaria vector species distribution and insecticide resistance have taken new colonization steps across Africa. Understanding the malaria vector insecticide resistance status, blood meal source, and species composition is of paramount importance in designing evidence-based vector control strategies. This study assessed the blood meal sources, sporozoite (infectivity) rate, and knockdown resistance allele’s frequency in female Anopheles arabiensis in chosen villages of Jabi Tehnan District, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: The host-seeking and resting Anopheles gambiae s.l. were collected using human landing catches (HLCs), CDC light traps (CDC-LTs), pyrethrum spray catches (PSCs), and pit shelters (PSs) both indoors and outdoors. The analysis of both blood meal sources and circumsporozoite proteins was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The detection of knockdown resistance gene mutations and species identification were conducted using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: A total of 5098 female Anopheles gambiae s.l. were collected. Of these, 1690 (33.2%) were collected from HLCs, 1423 (27.9%) from CDC light traps, 1635 (32.0%) from PSCs, and only 350 (6.9%) from pit shelters (PSs). Of these, 57.2% (n = 2915) female Anopheles mosquitoes were collected indoors using CDC light traps (CDC-LTs), human landing catches (HLCs), and pyrethrum spray catches (PSCs), while 38.2% (n = 2183) were collected outdoors using human landing collection (HLC), CDC light traps (CDC-LTs), and artificial pit shelters (PSs). Molecular identification to the species level showed that among the 530 An. gambiae s.l. samples analyzed using PCR, 96.03% (509) were An. arabiensis, and 3.97% (21) were unidentified species. The biting peak was found to be from 22:00 to 00:00 h for An. arabiensis. However, their activity decreased sharply after 23:00 to 00:00 h. The distribution of knockdown resistance genes in the tested specimens of An. arabiensis consisted of 1.4% (n = 3) heterozygous resistant (RS), 17.9% (n = 38) homozygous resistant (RR), and 80.7% (n = 171) homozygous susceptible (SS) genotypes. A higher proportion of Anopheles mosquitoes analyzed for blood meal analysis had a human blood meal origin at 13.1% (n = 47), followed by bovine at 8.9% (n = 32) and mixed at 5.8% (n = 21). Conclusions: The dominant malaria vector species was Anopheles arabiensis in the study area with a higher human blood meal origin. The Kdr gene was confirmed in the tested An. arabiensis, indicating that an alternative insecticide class should be used in the study area. Full article

Porphyra umbilicalis is a red macroalga belonging to the genus Porphyra and the family Bangiaceae. Porphyra umbilicalis distinguishes itself among macroalgae due to its remarkable biochemical composition and nutritional value. It contains a broad spectrum of bioactive compounds, including macronutrients and micronutrients. Among the macronutrients, carbohydrates, proteins, and essential fatty acids are particularly abundant, with protein levels reaching up to 40% dw (dry weight). Its high protein content makes Porphyra umbilicalis a promising alternative and sustainable protein source, particularly for plant-based diets. Its micronutrients, including vitamins (C, E, and B-group), pigments, and mineral components, contribute to antioxidant protection, metabolic regulation, and maintenance of overall nutritional balance. What makes P. umbilicalis particularly distinctive is its content of unique bioactives such as porphyran, phycobiliproteins, and mycosporine-like amino acids. Preliminary evidence from animal and in vitro studies indicates that these unique bioactive compounds contribute to the anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects of P. umbilicalis. However, more systematic research into its chemical composition is needed due to variability related to harvest location, environmental factors, and inconsistencies in the existing literature. Detailed data on the full chemical profile and bioavailability of specific compounds remain limited, underscoring the need for further investigation. Evidence on the health benefits of P. umbilicalis remains limited, as current studies are restricted to preclinical models and have not been validated through human trials, emphasizing the need for rigorous research to clarify its role in functional foods. Full article

Interest in more sustainable diets for the global population of 528 million companion dogs is steadily increasing, encompassing nutritionally sound cultivated meat, vegan, and microbial protein-based dog foods. Factors driving these alternative dog foods include lower impacts on the environment, fewer welfare problems related to intensively farmed animals and wild-caught fish, and potentially superior canine health outcomes, relative to conventional meat-based dog food. Through a questionnaire with 2639 responses, this study aimed to gain insights into dog guardians’ current feeding patterns and dog food purchasing determinants, acceptance of more sustainable dog diets, and sources of information used for decisions about dog diets. Key results included that 84% (2188/2596) of respondents currently fed either conventional or raw meat-based dog food. More than 43% (936/2169) of this group of respondents who answered found at least one of the more sustainable alternative dog foods acceptable, with purchases of these alternatives hinging most commonly upon the nutritional soundness of the products. Cultivated meat-based dog food was the most popular alternative (selected by 24%, 529/2169), followed by vegetarian (17%, 359/2169), insect-based (16%, 336/2169), and vegan (13%, 290/2169) dog food. The top three information sources used to make decisions regarding dog diets were labels/packaging (selected by 42% of all respondents, 1080/2596), scientific articles/books (38%, 989/2596), and business webpages (35%, 900/2596). Numerous human and dog demographic variables had impacts on current diets, acceptance of alternative diets, and information sources used. Notably, human diet and dog diet were the factors most commonly associated with current and potential purchasing decisions, as well as with information sources used. For instance, greater reductions by guardians in the consumption of animals were associated with greater acceptance of more sustainable dog diets. It should be noted that, due to the reliance on convenience sampling and the overrepresentation of respondents from the UK, of female guardians, of respondents with higher education, and of vegan guardians, the reported relative frequencies of subgroups were not fully representative of the global dog guardian population. Association estimates were based on regression analyses to minimize any resultant bias effects. Full article