Search Results (5,407)

Polyphenol-rich botanical extracts have emerged as promising nutricosmetic interventions against signs of skin aging. Fruit polyphenols improve skin appearance, while biotin plays a recognized role in keratin synthesis and hair follicle metabolism, yet their combined effects have not been evaluated. This study assessed the effects of a red- and blackcurrant polyphenol with biotin supplement (RiboBeauty^®) in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Fifty-four women were randomized, and fifty-two were eligible for the efficacy analyses (Placebo, n = 27; Supplement, n = 25). Over 12 weeks, wrinkle morphology and skin roughness were quantified by 3D imaging and hair shedding by a combing test. For skin roughness, mean local peak-to-peak amplitude (Stm) showed significant within-group reductions in the supplement group at D56 (−4.897%; p = 0.0489) and D84 (−6.558%; p = 0.0491), without significant between-group differences. Hair shedding was significantly lower in the Supplement group versus Placebo at D28 (−30.90%; p = 0.0203) and D56 (−41.58%; p = 0.0158), although the treatment × time interaction was not significant. The crow’s feet wrinkle area showed numerically (but non-statistically significant) lower values in the supplement group than in the placebo group at all post-baseline visits. Overall, these findings indicate a favorable efficacy signal, while the limited demonstration of statistically significant placebo superiority across the main skin outcomes warrants cautious interpretation. Full article

In this study, 20% ethanol elution fraction(PC-20), 40% ethanol elution fraction(PC-40), 60% ethanol elution fraction(PC-60), and 80% ethanol elution fraction (PC-80)of Penthorum chinense polyphenols were obtained using AB-8 macroporous resin . Their in vitro bioactivities were compared to explore potential applications. A comprehensive phytochemical analysis identified 85 compounds, including 16 phenolic acids, 36 flavonoids, 24 hydrolyzed tannins, 7 anthocyanins, and 2 others. The results showed clear ethanol concentration-dependent variations in both compound composition and bioactivity. PC-20 had the highest levels of total polyphenols (418.45 mg/g), proanthocyanidins (84.95 mg/g), and tannins (10.61 mg/g), and also showed the best antioxidant capacity. PC-40 contained the most flavonoids (227.55 mg/g). PC-60 gave the strongest α-glucosidase inhibition (IC₅₀ = 0.79 µg/mL), while PC-20 was most effective against pancreatic lipase (IC₅₀ = 101.06 µg/mL) and also significantly activated the enzymes ADH and ALDH. Overall, PC-20 appears more suitable for applications aimed at antioxidant, anti-obesity, or liver-protective effects, whereas PC-60 is more promising for blood glucose control. This work provides a practical basis for selecting different ethanol fractions of P. chinense polyphenols according to specific functional needs. Full article

In accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a systematic review was conducted on the green extraction of bioactive compounds from fruit matrices through the integration of emerging technologies and natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES). Studies published between 2015 and 2025 were analyzed from databases such as Scopus and Web of Science, and 63 relevant studies were selected following a rigorous methodological evaluation process. The results demonstrate a growing scientific interest in the use of NADES due to their sustainable nature, low toxicity, and high extraction efficiency, particularly when combined with technologies such as ultrasound and microwaves. These synergies enhance yield, reduce energy consumption, and preserve the stability of polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. Furthermore, the physicochemical properties of NADES, such as polarity and viscosity, together with operational factors, such as temperature and water content, significantly influence process efficiency, indicating that the combination of NADES with emerging technologies represents a promising alternative for agri-food valorization with potential application as functional ingredients and in clean-label systems. Moreover, it is established as a robust strategy for the development of sustainable extraction processes with industrial scale-up prospects. Full article

This study investigates the valorization of Nephelium lappaceum (rambutan) shell, an agro-industrial byproduct, as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds through comprehensive chemical and functional characterization. Phytochemical profiles were determined using spectrophotometrics and HPLC-DAD-MS/MS, revealing a composition dominated by ellagitannins (e.g., geraniin, corilagin, chebulagic acid) and ellagic acid derivatives, alongside significant levels of total phenolics (25,982.2 mg/100 g DW) and anthocyanins. The extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity (DPPH IC₅₀ = 8.02 μg/mL; TEAC = 5703.92 μmol TE/g), consistent with its high phenolic content. Biological evaluation demonstrated antimicrobial activity against a broad panel of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains, with greater efficacy against Gram-positive species (Staphylococcus aureus, MIC = 2.5 mg/mL). The extract also showed significant antibiofilm activity, achieving up to 93% inhibition. Antitumoral assays revealed selective cytotoxicity, particularly against HeLa cells (IC₅₀ = 260 μg/mL; TI = 11.5), indicating preferential effects on tumor over non-tumor cells. Importantly, hemolytic assays confirmed low toxicity, with negligible erythrocyte membrane disruption across tested concentrations. Overall, these findings highlight rambutan shell as a rich source of phenolic bioactives with multifunctional biological properties and favorable safety profile, supporting its potential application in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulations within a circular economy framework. This study aligns with SDG 3 and SDG 9 by promoting the valorization of agro-industrial waste as a source of safe bioactive compounds for health-related applications. Full article

This study investigated the effect of enriching extruded sorghum-based snacks with chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) pomace on their nutritional, functional, and sensory properties. The formulations varied from 100% sorghum (the control) to blends with up to 30% pomace, with selected samples supplemented with 1% cinnamon. Increasing the pomace content was accompanied by a marked rise in total monomeric anthocyanins (from not detected in the control to 25.12 mg/100 g at 30% pomace) and significantly enhanced antioxidant activity. Free DPPH values increased from 3.45 to 18.65 mmol TE/100 g, while Free ABTS values rose from 3.12 to 25.98 mmol TE/100 g. The highest antioxidant capacity was observed in samples containing 27–30% pomace. The incorporation of cinnamon (1%) further improved antioxidant activity compared to corresponding formulations without cinnamon (e.g., Free DPPH up to 10.79 mmol TE/100 g at 13% pomace). Higher pomace levels also produced increased crispiness and brittleness due to increased insoluble fiber content. Response surface methodology and artificial neural networks confirmed strong links among the formulation, processing conditions, and product quality. Sensory evaluation revealed overall liking scores below the neutral level (5 of the 9 hedonic scales), with bitterness identified as the main limitation, despite favorable texture attributes. Correspondence analysis of consumer feedback suggested potential strategies for sample improvement, including bitterness reduction and flavor enhancement, through the addition of sweet, salty, or complementary flavor notes (e.g., chocolate, nutty, fruity, and warm spices). Overall, chokeberry pomace shows promise as a functional ingredient in sorghum snacks, although further sensory optimization is required to enhance consumer acceptance. Full article

Pigmented corn cobs (PCC) are a rich source of bioactive phenolic compounds (BPC) that can be obtained through sustainable solid-state fermentation (SSF). In this work, PCC were evaluated as a support for SSF using Saccharomyces cerevisiae, focusing on the effects of culture time and aeration on BPC recovery. Additionally, the relationships among BPC content, antioxidant capacity (AC), and the production of selected industrial enzymes were evaluated. The physicochemical properties of PCC proved suitable for SSF. After 12 h of fermentation, condensed phenols increased by 120.37% and showed positive correlations with AC, β-glucosidase and tannase activities. A total of 33 compounds, including anthocyanins, flavonols, and hydroxycinnamic acids, were identified via HPLC-MS during SSF. Notable changes in the phenolic profile were observed as a result of enzymatic biodegradation and biotransformation mediated by S. cerevisiae. Compounds such as caffeic acid and p-coumaric acid were highlighted due to their biological activity and industrial relevance. Forced aeration played a key role in SSF performance by enhancing enzyme production and BPC release. The incorporation of aeration boosts enzyme production and BPC release, thereby improving process efficiency. Overall, SSF represents a sustainable strategy for PCC valorization within a circular economy framework. Full article

Enormous genetic diversity exists in rice germplasm, including wild and weedy relatives, though they remain unexplored within in situ or ex situ collections. Characterisation and utilisation of the available biodiversity in plant breeding is essential for the detection of novel traits or genes for climate resilience. In this study, 97 rice genotypes, including 90 rice accessions belonging to various Oryza species and 7 check cultivars with an O. sativa background, were characterised for quantitative morphological characters following the guidelines based on distinctiveness, uniformity and stability (DUS) test by the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPVFRA), India. Characterisation of the genotypes based on 39 important DUS morphological descriptors revealed polymorphism in 35 traits, confirming high morphological diversity among wild rice accessions and distinguishing and unique traits from other wild accessions for the utilisation in pre-breeding programmes. Genotypes such as WD5_6, WD10_4, and WD3_3 consistently expressed a favourable combination of broad and long leaves, extended panicle length, and well-branched panicles with higher panicle number. In addition, these genotypes showed purple pigmentation across multiple vegetative and reproductive organs, indicating stable and enhanced anthocyanin accumulation. Accessions WD10_4 and WD3_3 also represent valuable donors for panicle architecture and yield component enhancement, while genotypes such as WD17_15 and WD12_8 may serve as specific donors for panicle length and branching traits. Characterisation studies and detection of unique traits provide the empirical foundation for conservation decisions, taxonomic clarity, and pre-breeding applications. Interspecific crosses in the genetic background of elite cultivars with donor species viz., O. barthii, O. glaberrima and O. rufipogon were developed as pre-breeding materials for further crop improvement as well as for the identification of novel genes of agronomic importance. Full article

Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) is a key fruit crop affected by abiotic stresses such as salinity, drought, and temperature extremes. The Regulator of Chromosome Condensation 1 (RCC1) family, involved in regulating Ran GTPase activation, nucleocytoplasmic transport, and chromatin organization, has not been comprehensively characterized in grapevine. In this study, we identified 26 VvRCC1 genes, which were classified into five phylogenetic groups, and analyzed their distribution across the grapevine genome. These genes exhibited significant diversity in physicochemical properties, suggesting functional divergence. Expression profiling revealed distinct spatiotemporal patterns, indicating roles in both vegetative growth and reproductive development. Notably, several VvRCC1 genes showed differential responses to salinity, drought, and heat stress. Importantly, VvRCC1-17, identified as UVR8, was shown to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis under UV-B exposure. OE-VvUVR8 transgenic grape calli exhibited increased anthocyanin accumulation, reflected in a distinct red coloration compared to wild-type calli. This finding links UVR8 to light signaling and pigmentation pathways in grapevine, providing the first comprehensive analysis of the RCC1 gene family in grapevine and highlighting VvRCC1-17 (UVR8) as a key regulator of UV-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis, offering insights into the molecular mechanisms of stress adaptation and pigment regulation. Full article

Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt., a medicinal and edible herb, is valued for its diverse leaf coloration, attributed to varying levels of anthocyanin accumulation. The primary anthocyanins in P. frutescens are acylated cyanidin glycosides; however, the enzymes facilitating the acylation process have yet to be characterized. BAHD acyltransferases, known to catalyze such modifications, remain uncharacterized in P. frutescens. To systematically identify potential genes that may be associated with this function, we performed a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the BAHD acyltransferase family in P. frutescens. Our study identified 134 PfBAHD genes, which were subsequently analyzed for their physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationships, conserved domains, motif compositions, and promoter cis-elements. Phylogenetic analysis categorized the PfBAHD genes into six clades, with Clade I being the primary candidate for anthocyanin-related activity due to its enrichment with members known to acylate flavonoids in other species. Promoter analysis indicated a significant presence of cis-elements associated with light, phytohormones, and stress responses. By integrating tissue-specific metabolomic and transcriptomic data, we established correlations between anthocyanin accumulation patterns and PfBAHD gene expression. Through the integration of multi-omics data, six candidate genes were prioritized, with PfBAHD05, PfBAHD77, and PfBAHD112 emerging as the most promising candidates. These genes demonstrated predominant expression in leaves, were induced under conditions of high light exposure, and were predicted to be localized in the cytoplasm. To further explore their potential functions, molecular docking analyses were conducted, suggesting that PfBAHD77 may have a preference for highly glycosylated anthocyanins, whereas PfBAHD05 and PfBAHD112 may favor substrates with lower levels of glycosylation. Collectively, these findings provide a preliminary foundation for understanding anthocyanin acylation in P. frutescens and identify several BAHD candidate genes that could be potentially targeted in future metabolic engineering efforts pending further biochemical and genetic validation. Full article

This study examined the effects of soy protein isolate (SPI) 7S and SPI 11S on the anthocyanin (AN) retention rate of Lonicera caerulea L. under different processing conditions and further analyzed the molecular interaction mechanisms between 7S/11S and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G). The results demonstrated that SPI increased the retention rate of anthocyanins to varying degrees while also enhancing the digestive stability. Multispectral results indicated that static quenching occurred between 7S/11S and C3G, and the polarity changes in the amino acid microenvironment varied with pH. Thermodynamic analysis indicated that hydrogen bonds dominated the interaction under both pH conditions, while a certain degree of hydrophobic interaction was additionally observed under neutral conditions. After binding with C3G, the proportion of β-sheet structures in SPI decreased and the proportion of other structures increased. Finally, molecular docking further simulated the binding between SPI and C3G and revealed the important roles of hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding, which also promoted the combination of SPI and C3G to form a stable complex. This study provides a mechanistic reference for using proteins as effective carriers to protect anthocyanins, with implications for developing functional food components with enhanced stability. Full article

This study investigated bract color phenotypes and pigment composition in Bougainvillea × buttiana ‘Mrs. Butt’ and six bud-sport varieties at the full-bloom stage. Bract color was evaluated using the Royal Horticultural Society Colour Chart and CIELAB parameters, whereas pigment classes and contents were determined using qualitative color reactions, UV–Vis spectroscopy, and spectrophotometric assays. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, Duncan’s multiple range test, Pearson correlation analysis, cluster analysis, and pigment ratio analysis. The seven varieties were classified into red/pink and orange/yellow groups, which differed significantly in L*, a*, b*, C*, and H°. Betalains and flavonoids appeared to be the predominant pigment classes, whereas chlorophylls and carotenoids were present at relatively low levels; no characteristic anthocyanin absorption peak was detected under the present UV–Vis conditions. The betaxanthin/betacyanin ratio was positively correlated with L* and b* and negatively correlated with a*, suggesting that this ratio is associated with variation from red-dominant to yellow-dominant bract coloration. These findings suggest that bract color variation in this bud-sport lineage is associated with the combined effects of betalains and flavonoids, and that the betaxanthin/betacyanin ratio could serve as a practical indicator for color classification and low-cost assisted selection in Bougainvillea. Full article

Climate change and evolving consumer preferences are increasing the demand for wines with lower alcohol content and improved compositional balance. This study evaluated the effects of pre-apical leaf removal (LR) and partial substitution of ripe grape must with must or wine from unripe grapes (MS and WS) on ethanol content, acidity, phenolic composition, color, and sensory attributes of Tannat red wines under temperate-humid conditions. A complementary small-scale experiment assessed substitution levels (5–20%). All strategies reduced ethanol content, though with varying effects on wine composition. LR moderately decreased ethanol by limiting carbon assimilation but did not significantly affect acidity and reduced phenolic compounds, particularly anthocyanins. In contrast, MS and WS were more effective, reducing ethanol, lowering pH, and increasing titratable acidity. These treatments largely preserved phenolic composition and color, especially at moderate substitution levels, whereas post-fermentative blending showed a stronger dilution effect. Sensory differences were limited: LR wines showed lower color intensity, while MS and WS maintained visual attributes similar to the control. Results from the complementary exploratory assay suggested that substitution levels around 15% may provide a suitable balance between ethanol reduction, acidity, phenolic preservation, and sensory acceptability. These strategies offer practical tools to produce balanced, lower-alcohol Tannat wines. Full article

Cranberry pomace is a rich, but underutilized source of polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. This study assessed the efficacy of six solvent mixtures comprising combinations of ethanol, methanol, acetone, formic acid, and water for extraction of antioxidants from pomace. The antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of the cranberry pomace extracts were evaluated using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS•⁺(2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzthiazolin-6-sulfonic acid), FRAP (ferric reducing power), and Folin–Ciocâlteu assays, the total proanthocyanidin content was estimated using the dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde (DMAC) method, and individual polyphenolics and triterpenoids were determined using HPLC-DAD and UPLC-MS. Extracts exhibited a broad range of total phenolic content at 21–166 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g extract), total PACs (proanthocyanidins) at 6–240 mg PAC equivalents/g extract, anthocyanins at 0.42–1.77 mg/g extract, flavonols at 4.09–11.7 mg/g extract, and triterpenoids at 85.6–287 mg/g extract. Antioxidant activities varied widely and correlated positively with all polyphenol categories, but negatively with triterpenoids. An extract produced using an acetone, methanol, water and formic acid mixture demonstrated optimal antioxidant properties, total phenolic content, and total proanthocyanidin content and was further characterized. Our findings emphasize the importance of solvent selection for targeted bioactive constituents and highlight cranberry pomace as a promising source of antioxidants. Full article

This study explored the link between orchard-derived cherry quality and circular food innovation through the valorization of dried cherry pomace. Sweet cherry fruits from the cultivars Van and Stella, grown under the pedoclimatic conditions of north-eastern Romania, were evaluated for physicochemical traits, phytochemical profile, antioxidant activity, and heavy metal content. In parallel, cherry pomace obtained during juice processing of cultivar Van was freeze-dried, characterized, and incorporated into dairy-based spreadable formulations at 5% and 10% addition levels in order to assess its bioactive potential. The results showed clear cultivar-dependent differences, with Van exhibiting a superior bioactive profile, including higher total polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity than Stella. Heavy metal concentrations in fruits remained below the maximum allowable limits, while health-risk indices indicated no significant non-carcinogenic risk (HI = 3.18 × 10⁻²). The dried cherry pomace powder was characterized by high dietary fiber content (49.83 g/100 g dw), substantial total polyphenols (1046.80 mg GAE/100 g dw), anthocyanins (123.27 mg C3G/100 g dw), and antioxidant activity (21.43 μM TE/g dw). Its incorporation into dairy-based spreadable products significantly improved ash, carbohydrate, fiber, phytochemical content, and antioxidant activity, with the 10% level showing the highest functional enhancement. Sensory evaluation indicated that the 5% formulation achieved the most balanced and preferred overall sensory profile. Overall, the findings support dried cherry pomace as a valuable functional ingredient and highlight a practical circular strategy for reconnecting cherry by-products with value-added food applications. Full article

Dairy whey is an underutilized by-product with potential as a sustainable carrier for bioactive compounds. This study developed and optimized fermented whey-based beverages enriched with Andean blueberry (Vaccinium floribundum Kunth) and blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) extracts and evaluated their antioxidant properties and gastrointestinal bioaccessibility. Beverages were formulated with fermented whey and berry extracts and optimized using a 3ᵏ response surface design considering extract concentration and storage time. The optimal formulations contained 50% berry extract. The Andean blueberry beverage showed the highest functional performance, with 2268.97 ± 4.41 µmol Trolox equivalents (TE)/100 mL by oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), 1442.46 ± 12.95 µmol TE/100 mL by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay (DPPH), 242.60 ± 6.25 mg GAE/100 mL of total polyphenols, 137.94 ± 2.76 mg QE/100 mL of flavonoids, and 21.50 ± 0.51 mg C3GE/100 mL of anthocyanins. During in vitro digestion, polyphenols and flavonoids showed high bioaccessibility, reaching values above 80% in gastric or intestinal stages, while ORAC antioxidant capacity increased up to 153% in the jejunal phase. Anthocyanins remained more stable under gastric conditions but decreased during intestinal digestion. These findings support fermented whey as a value-added matrix for developing bioactive-rich functional beverages with improved digestive functionality. Full article