Carotenoids from marine bacteria: A natural antioxidant and UV protectant

For the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors, marine resources are a promising supply of organic substances. Marine organisms have evolved particular metabolites to combat threats to their survival, reproduction, and the easier storage, movement, and turnover of essential biological materials in habitats with extreme conditions like high salinity, low temperature, or intense pressure.Several newly conducted research studies on pigments, such as violacein, astaxanthin, canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin, rubrolone, and carotenoid derivatives of bacteria from marine sources, confirm their effective radical scavenging activity. Carotenoids are tetraterpene, lipophilic bioactive pigments synthesized by archaea, algae, photosynthetic bacteria, and plants. Carotenoids are divided into two categories, oxygenated carotenoids (xanthophylls) having oxygen as a functional group, and hydrocarbon carotenoids (carotene) made of carbon and hydrogen atoms Carotenoids are important because of their functional properties, which include their usage in the food industry as color additives and natural antioxidants, as well as chemotaxonomic markers and pharmaceuticals. The present review aims to describe 1) carotenoids from marine bacteria 2) the antioxidant properties of carotenoids 3) the Exposure consequences of ultraviolet radiation 4) the protective role of carotenoids. Photoaging, sunburn, and skin cancer are all possible side effects of excessive UV exposure. Carotenoids have potential use in the pharmaceuticals and cosmetic industry as anti-aging, photoprotective, skin-whitening, anticancer, and immunity boosters because of their antioxidant and UV protection properties.

Carotenogénesis y pigmentos en Cucurbita spp

Los carotenoides son pigmentos orgánicos que el organismo no puede sintetizar y deben ser suministrados en la dieta humana. Este artículo de revisión tiene por objetivo abordar la ruta carotenogénica y los pigmentos predominantes en la pulpa de cucurbitáceas, siendo una de las hortalizas con mayor contenido de carotenoides, de tonalidades amarillo y naranja. Se recopiló literatura relevante sobre la temática proveniente de libros y de artículos científicos, identificando que el género Cucurbita, por ser de naturaleza alógama, expresa alta variabilidad fenotípica y genotípica, que es afectada por el ambiente y, ello, supone alta variabilidad en la composición de carotenoides del fruto, tanto cuantitativa como cualitativamente. Los carotenoides son los responsables de dar color característico a las flores y a los frutos; los apocarotenoides son conocidos por dar aromas, fragancias y sabores. El almacenamiento y la biosíntesis de los carotenoides se genera en los plastidios, estos pigmentos se pueden sintetizar por la ruta del metileritritol difosfato (MEP) hasta licopeno, donde se bifurca a α-caroteno y ß-caroteno y, posteriormente, mediante hidroxilaciones, se generan las xantofilas. Su importancia en la acumulación de carotenoides en frutos radica en las múltiples funciones y beneficios en plantas, animales y humanos, como fotoreceptores y fotoprotectores de luz, colorantes agroindustriales, antioxidantes, reducción de enfermedades crónicas, precursores de vitamina A, entre otros beneficios, cabe destacar el alto contenido de carotenos totales en cucurbitáceas encontrándose en Cucurbita moschata más de 600 µg/g en genotipos mejorados.

Carotenoids are organic pigments that the body cannot synthesize and must be supplied in the human diet. This review article aims to approach the carotenogenic route and the predominant pigments in the fruits of Cucurbits, as this is one of the vegetables with the highest content of carotenoids of yellow and orange tones. Relevant literature on the subject was collected from scientific books and articles, identifying that the genus Cucurbita, being cross-pollinated in nature, expresses high phenotypic and genotypic variability, which is affected by the environment and, this implies high variability in the carotenoid composition of the fruit, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Carotenoids are responsible for giving characteristic color to flowers and fruits, apocarotenoids are known to give aromas, fragrances, and flavors. The biosynthesis and storage of carotenoids are generated in the plastids, the pathway of methylerythritol diphosphate (MEP) to lycopene can synthesize these pigments where it bifurcates to α-carotene and ß-carotene and later, by hydroxylations, xanthophylls are generated. Its importance in the accumulation of carotenoids in fruits lies in the multiple functions and benefits in plants, animals, and humans as photoreceptors and photoprotectors of light, agroindustrial colorants, antioxidants, reduction of chronic diseases, precursors of vitamin A, among other benefits. Highlighting the high content of total carotenes in Cucurbits, with more than 600 µg / g in Cucurbita moschata found in improved genotypes.

Can pumpkin save us of doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity? / ¿Puede la calabaza salvarnos de la cardiotoxicidad inducida por doxorrubicina?

SUMMARY: Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the drugs necessary for the treatment of the 10 most common types of cancer. The leading adverse effect limiting clinical use of DOX is cardiotoxicity. Given that literature data indicate a protective role of carotenoids in doxorubicin-induced toxicity, in our study we compared the cardioprotective effect of a mixture of pumpkin carotenoids and a commercially available antioxidant preparation. Animals were distributed in 8 groups (Control - S; NADES - N; Doxorubicin - Dox; Carotenoids - Car; CardiofortIN - CF; NADES-Doxorubicin - N-Dox; Carotenoids-Doxorubicin - Car-Dox; CardiofortIN-Doxorubicin - CF-Dox). Histological sections were stained with the hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and analyzed for the presence of myocardial damage by doxorubicin damage score (DDS). From the heart tissue homogenate were determined the intensity of lipid peroxidation and specific antioxidative enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase; catalase; glutathione S-transferase; glutathione peroxidase). In Car-DOX and CF-DOX groups, lipid peroxidation is significantly reduced compared to DOX group. Pretreatment of animals with carotenoids and in lesser extent with CardiofortIN led to higher antioxidative enzymes activity, compared to DOX group. Pretreated with carotenoids, only 50 % of animals had some degree of myocardial damage, and no animals had extensive damage. CardiofortIN pretreatment showed less protective effect. Pretreatment with carotenoid extract, reduced DDS significantly, so Car-DOX group has changes equivalent to mild myocardial damage. Although CardiofortIN pretreatment lowered DDS score values, animals still had moderate level of myocardium damage. This in vivo study and its findings indicate that carotenoids extracted from pumpkin may be a promising cardioprotective agent against doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity, at least in part mediated through inhibition of DOX-induced oxidative stress.

La doxorrubicina (DOX) es uno de los fármacos necesarios para el tratamiento de los 10 tipos más comunes de cáncer. El principal efecto adverso que limita el uso clínico de DOX es la cardiotoxicidad. Debido a que los datos de la literatura indican un papel protector de los carotenoides en la toxicidad inducida por doxorrubicina, en nuestro estudio comparamos el efecto cardioprotector de una mezcla de carotenoides de calabaza y una preparación antioxidante disponible comercialmente. Los animales se distribuyeron en 8 grupos (Control - S; NADES - N; Doxorrubicina - Dox; Carotenoides - Car; CardiofortIN - CF; NADES-Doxorrubicina - N-Dox; Carotenoides-Doxorrubicina - Car-Dox; CardiofortIN- Doxorrubicina - CF-Dox). Las secciones histológicas se tiñeron con hematoxilina-eosina (HE) y se analizaron para detectar la presencia de daño miocárdico mediante la puntuación de daño por doxorrubicina (DDS). A partir del homogeneizado de tejido cardíaco se determinó la intensidad de la peroxidación lipídica y la actividad enzimática antioxidante específica (superóxido dismutasa, catalasa, glutatión S-transferasa, glutatión peroxidasa). En los grupos Car-DOX y CF-DOX, la peroxidación lipídica se redujo significativamente en comparación con el grupo DOX. El pre tratamiento de los animales con carotenoides y, en menor medida, con CardiofortlN condujo a una mayor actividad de las enzimas antioxidantes, en comparación con el grupo DOX. Al ser pre tratados con carotenoides, solo el 50 % de los animales tenían algún grado de daño miocárdico y ningún animal tenía daño extenso. El pre tratamiento con CardiofortIN mostró un efecto protector menor. El pre tratamiento con extracto de carotenoides redujo significativamente el DDS, por lo que el grupo Car-DOX mostró cambios equivalentes a un daño miocárdico leve. Aunque el pre tratamiento con CardiofortIN redujo los valores de la puntuación DDS, los animales aún tenían un nivel moderado de daño al miocardio. Este estudio in vivo y sus hallazgos indican que los carotenoides extraídos de la calabaza pueden ser un agente cardioprotector prometedor contra la cardiotoxicidad inducida por doxorrubicina, al menos en parte mediada por la inhibición del estrés oxidativo inducido por DOX.

Oxidative stress, the blood-brain barrier and neurodegenerative diseases: The critical beneficial role of dietary antioxidants

In recent years, growing awareness of the role of oxidative stress in brain health has prompted antioxidants, especially dietary antioxidants, to receive growing attention as possible treatments strategies for patients with neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). The most widely studied dietary antioxidants include active substances such as vitamins, carotenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols. Dietary antioxidants are found in usually consumed foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and oils and are gaining popularity due to recently growing awareness of their potential for preventive and protective agents against NDs, as well as their abundant natural sources, generally non-toxic nature, and ease of long-term consumption. This review article examines the role of oxidative stress in the development of NDs, explores the 'two-sidedness' of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) as a protective barrier to the nervous system and an impeding barrier to the use of antioxidants as drug medicinal products and/or dietary antioxidants supplements for prevention and therapy and reviews the BBB permeability of common dietary antioxidant suplements and their potential efficacy in the prevention and treatment of NDs. Finally, current challenges and future directions for the prevention and treatment of NDs using dietary antioxidants are discussed, and useful information on the prevention and treatment of NDs is provided.

Un raro caso de dilución pastel en Trogon elegans (Aves: Trogonidae) en la Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo, México / A rare case of pastel dilution in Trogon elegans (Aves: Trogonidae) from Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo, Mexico

Resumen Las coloraciones anormales en aves son raras y poco documentadas. Se han relacionado a problemas congénitos y con factores externos, consideradas como un indicador ambiental que da evidencia y pistas sobre la calidad de las poblaciones a nivel genético. Identificamos un caso de anormalidad pigmentaria en un trogón elegante (Trogon elegans (Gould, 1834)) en el Área Natural Protegida Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo, México. Determinamos el tipo como dilución pastel, en esta mutación ambas melaninas se ven fuertemente afectadas, donde carecía de melanina, pero mantuvo los carotenoides con el rojo de las plumas ventrales. Discutimos posibles explicaciones para esta coloración anormal y asumimos que fueron alteraciones genéticas o de desarrollo del individuo las que causaron el decolorado del plumaje.

Abstract The bird abnormal colorations are rare and poorly documented. They had been related to congenital problems and external factors, considered as an ambiental indicator that gives evidence and clues about the quality of the populations at a genetic level. We identified a pigmentary abnormalitycase on a Elegant Trogon (Trogon elegans (Gould, 1834)) in the natural protected area "Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo", Mexico. We determined the type as pastel dilution, on this mutation both melanin are greatly affected, where it lacked melanin, but it kept the carotenoids with the rd color on the ventral feathers. We discuss posible explanations for this abnormal coloration and asume that it was due to genetic or developmental alterations of the individual that caused the bleaching of the plumage.

Elaboration of food products with biofortified sweet potatoes: Characterization and sensory acceptability

ABSTRACT Beauregard sweet potato is an orange color crop rich in β-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. β-carotene improve immunity and decrease of incidence of degenerative diseases. The objective of this work was to introduce sweet potato in the diet through of some food products, such as bread, cake and sweets. The effect of processing on the chemical composition, as well as the quantification of phenols and total carotenoids, antioxidant activity, and sensory acceptability were evaluated. Cakes and coconut sweets presented higher levels of carotenoids. Higher phenolic and antioxidant activity were verified in cocoa sweets. All foods had good acceptability: 86% for bread, 83.3% for cake and 84,4%, and 86% for coconut and cocoa sweets, respectively. Servings of 95g of roasted sweet potato, 330g of bread, 182g of cake, 187g of coconut sweet and 391g end of cocoa sweet, would provide the recommended daily intake of vitamin A for children 10 years and older. It was concluded that the elaboration of foods containing sweet potato is a viable alternative to inserting biofortified foods into the human diet.

RESUMEN Los camote Beauregard son genotipos de color naranja, ricos en β-caroteno, precursores de la vitamina A. El β-caroteno ayuda a mejorar la inmunidad y reducir el riesgo de enfermedades degenerativas. El objetivo del trabajo fue introducir el camote en la dieta a través del pan, pasteles y dulces tipo postre. Se evaluó el efecto del procesamiento sobre la composición química, así como la cuantificación de fenoles y carotenoides totales, actividad antioxidante y aceptabilidad sensorial. Las tortas y caramelos de coco mostraron mayores niveles de carotenoides y cacao, mayor actividad fenólica y antioxidante. Se confirmó una buena aceptabilidad, en la cual el pan presentó 86%, el torta 83,3%, y los dulces tipo postre de coco y de cacao 84,4% y 86% respectivamente. Las porciones de 95 g de batatas al horno, 330 g de pan, 182 g de torta, 187 g y 391 g de dulce de coco y dulce de cacao respectivamente, proporcionarían la ingesta diaria recomendada de vitamina A para niños de 10 años en adelante. Se concluyó que la preparación de alimentos que contienen batatas es una alternativa viable a la inclusión de alimentos biofortificados en la dieta humana.

Attenuation of salt stress by lycopene on common bean seeds / Attenuation of salt stress by lycopene on common bean seeds

Salinity is a major abiotic stress that adversely affects several physiological and biochemical aspects of plants. Antioxidants can be used as a potential remediation mechanism to promote plant resilience. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to evaluate increasing doses of the antioxidant lycopene on the germination and initial growth of common bean seedlings under conditions of salt stress. Seeds were treated with the following lycopene concentrations: 0.018; 0.036; 0.072; 0.144; and 0.288 g L-1 and two controls (negative and positive) and evaluated under two growth conditions (without and with salt stress) for physiological quality and pigment content. Data were analyzed by completely randomized design, in 2 x 7 factorial (two growth conditions, with paper towel moistened with water or salt solution x seven treatments, including five lycopene doses and two controls), in four replicates of 50 seeds by concentration. With the results of the analysis of variance, growth conditions (without and with salt stress) were compared by the Tukey test (5%), and the effects of lycopene doses were analyzed by polynomial regression. Lycopene promoted tolerance of bean seeds to salt stress and had a positive influence on the attenuation of salt harmful effects to the initial growth of seedlings, mainly at the doses of 0.072 g L-1 and 0.144 g L-1.

Salinity is a major abiotic stress that adversely affects several physiological and biochemical aspects of plants. Antioxidants can be used as a potential remediation mechanism to promote plant resilience. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to evaluate increasing doses of the antioxidant lycopene on the germination and initial growth of common bean seedlings under conditions of salt stress. Seeds were treated with the following lycopene concentrations: 0.018; 0.036; 0.072; 0.144; and 0.288 g L-1 and two controls (negative and positive) and evaluated under two growth conditions (without and with salt stress) for physiological quality and pigment content. Data were analyzed by completely randomized design, in 2 x 7 factorial (two growth conditions, with paper towel moistened with water or salt solution x seven treatments, including five lycopene doses and two controls), in four replicates of 50 seeds by concentration. With the results of the analysis of variance, growth conditions (without and with salt stress) were compared by the Tukey test (5%), and the effects of lycopene doses were analyzed by polynomial regression. Lycopene promoted tolerance of bean seeds to salt stress and had a positive influence on the attenuation of salt harmful effects to the initial growth of seedlings, mainly at the doses of 0.072 g L-1 and 0.144 g L-1.

The SREBP (Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein) pathway: a regulatory bridge between carotenogenesis and sterol biosynthesis in the carotenogenic yeast Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous

Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous is a basidiomycete yeast that naturally produces the red-orange carotenoid astaxanthin, which has remarkable antioxidant properties. The biosynthesis of carotenoids and sterols share some common elements that have been studied in X. dendrorhous. For example, their synthesis requires metabolites derived from the mevalonate pathway and in both specific pathways, cytochrome P450 enzymes are involved that share a single cytochrome P450 reductase, CrtR, which is essential for astaxanthin biosynthesis, but is replaceable for ergosterol biosynthesis. Research on the regulation of carotenoid biosynthesis is still limited in X. dendrorhous; however, it is known that the Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Protein (SREBP) pathway, which is a conserved regulatory pathway involved in the control of lipid metabolism, also regulates carotenoid production in X. dendrorhous. This review addresses the similarities and differences that have been observed between mammal and fungal SREBP pathways and what it is known about this pathway regarding the regulation of the production of carotenoids and sterols in X. dendrorhous.

Obtención de un colorante a partir de corteza de maracuyá con el uso de técnicas convencionales de extracción / Obtaining a dye from passion fruit cortex with the use of conventional extraction techniques

RESUMEN El maracuyá es un fruto tropical que se cultiva primordialmente para la obtención de pulpa, siendo la corteza su principal subproducto que carece, en la actualidad, de interés industrial; sin embargo, con el fin de diversificar los derivados provenientes de la producción de maracuyá, se ha demostrado que la corteza contiene carotenoides, dentro de los que se destaca el β-caroteno y la luteína, que podrían ser utilizados en alimentos, debido a su poder antioxidante e, incluso, como colorante natural alternativo. Por lo anterior, el objetivo de este trabajo fue obtener un extracto rico en carotenoides a partir de su corteza; para ello, se evaluó la extracción con etanol, mediante tres técnicas: inmersión, baño termostático y soxhlet. El mayor rendimiento, se obtuvo con el método soxhlet; para esta técnica, se estudió el efecto de la concentración de etanol (entre 80% y 90% v/v), la proporción solvente-materia prima (con relaciones entre 40:1 y 50:1) y el tiempo (definido entre 90 y 150 minutos). Los resultados, se analizaron mediante modelo de superficie de respuesta, obteniendo el mayor rendimiento con etanol al 90%, utilizando 50mL/g corteza y 150 minutos de operación. A estas condiciones, el rendimiento de extracción fue de 2208,53µg β-caroteno/100g muestra. Por último, se determinó la diferencia de color entre el extracto óptimo y una solución de tartrazina, evidenciando una diferencia de color de 3,07 unidades cieLAB, lo cual, muestra que el producto de lixiviación de la corteza de maracuyá tiene potencial para su uso como aditivo alimentario, reemplazando colorantes sintéticos, como la tartrazina.

ABSTRACT Passion fruit is a tropical fruit that is usually cultivated to obtain pulp, being the cortex its main not exploited by-product, because of the actual absence of industrial interest. However, with the aim of diversifying the derivates from the production of passion fruit products, it has been demonstrated that the cortex contains carotenoids, such as β-carotene and lutein; which could be used in food due to its antioxidant capacity, or even like a food colorant. Therefore, the objective of this work was to obtain a carotenoid-rich extract from its cortex; for this, three techniques of extraction with ethanol were evaluated, by immersion, thermostatic bath and Soxhlet. Being the last technique that one with which the best yield was obtained. With the highest yield technique, the following factors were evaluated: ethanol concentration on 80% and 90% v/v, solvent-raw material ratio on 40:1 and 50:1 and time on 90 and 150min. The best yield was obtaining to 90% ethanol, 50mL solvent/g raw material and 150min, for an extraction yield of 2208.53µg β-caroten/100 g sample. Finally, the color difference between the optimal extract and a tartrazine solution was determined, evidencing a color difference of 3.07cieLAB units; this shows that the passion fruit leaching product has the potential to be used as a food additive, replacing synthetic dyes such as tartrazine.

Mejoramiento de la extracción de carotenoides y capsaicinoides del ají nativo (Capsicum baccatum), asistido con enzimas celulolíticas

Se realizó la producción de celulasas de Aspergillus niger ATCC 10864 mediante fermentación en biopelículas (FB). Los extractos de celulasas se usaron para hidrolizar la celulosa del fruto de Capsicum baccatum "ají escabeche", para ello los frutos de ají fueron deshidratados y molidos a un tamaño de partícula menor a 0.425 mm. Luego se mezcló ají seco: celulasas y se hidrolizó en condiciones de agitación, tiempo y temperatura controlada. Se filtró el medio y se separó el sobrenadante de la torta de ají hidrolizado, este último se secó a 10% de humedad y se lixivió con una mezcla de hexano:acetona:etanol para extraer los carotenoides y capsaicinoides, los cuales fueron cuantificados por HPLC. El rendimiento de oleorresina extraída era cinco veces mayor comparado al método convencional; así mismo en los tratamientos T2 y T5, se logró mayor extracción de carotenoides y capsaicinoides totales, respectivamente, comparado a los otros tratamientos. La acción hidrolítica de las celulasas, sobre las estructuras moleculares de la celulosa del fruto ají escabeche, favorecieron mayor liberación de los carotenoides y capsaicinoides totales comparado a los métodos convencionales.

The production of cellulases of Aspergillus niger ATCC 10864 was carried out by fermentation in biofilms (FB). The extracts of cellulases were used to hydrolyze the cellulose of Capsicum baccatum "escabeche chili" fruit, for this the chili fruits were dehydrated and ground to a particle size < 0.045 mm. Then dry chili: cellulase was mixed and hydrolyzed under conditions of agitation, controlled time and temperature. The medium was filtered and the supernatant of the hydrolyzed chili cake was separated, the latter was dried at 10% humidity and leached with a mixture of hexane:acetone:ethanol to extract the carotenoids and capsaicinoids, which were quantified by HPLC. The extraction yield of oleoresin was five times higher compared to the conventional method; likewise in the T8 and T5 treatments, greater extraction of carotenoids and total capsaicinoids was achieved compared to the other treatments. The hydrolytic action of the cellulases, on the molecular structures of the cellulose of the red drop chili fruit, favored greater release of the carotenoids and total capsaicinoids compared to conventional methods.

Changes of pigment components in Dendrobium catenatum flower under different storage conditions / 中国中药杂志

The flower color of Dendrobium catenatum(D. officinale) tends to fade during storage. In order to clarify the influence of storage conditions on the pigment components in flowers, two conditions were applied:temperature and illumination. The contents of pigments in the D. catenatum flower were determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and HPLC, and the changes of them during storage were analyzed. The results showed that illumination and temperature had an effect on the pigments of D. catenatum flower during sto-rage. Illumination significantly promoted the degradation of pigments. The contents of total chlorophyll, carotenoids and anthocyanins in the light samples were significantly lower than those in the dark. The total chlorophyll, carotenoids and anthocyanins in the light samples were decreased by 46.5%, 63.4%, and 69.2% respectively. Illumination had a greater effect on fat-soluble pigments than water-soluble pigments. Among the three temperature treatments, the contents of chlorophyll, carotenoid and anthocyanin were as follows:-20 ℃>4 ℃>room temperature, it is indicated that-20 ℃ was the best temperature to maintain the stability of pigment composition. The contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, β-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin in the light samples decreased by 34.8%, 69.0%, 72.5%, 61.6%, 36.1%, respectively. After storage for 5 months, the contents of chlorophyll, carotenoid and anthocyanin constituent at-20 ℃ was significantly higher than those at 4 ℃ and room temperature. The results show that light avoiding and low-temperature can effectively slow down the degradation of pigment components. Therefore, it is suggested that D. catenatum flower should be stored in light avoiding and low-temperature conditions in actual production and processing, which can prolong the usable time.

Development and Characterization of Poly-ε -caprolactone Nanocapsules Containing β -carotene Using the Nanoprecipitation Method and Optimized by Response Surface Methodology

Abstract Nanoparticles demonstrate an important role in the protection of bioactive compounds from external factors such as temperature, oxygen and light. In this study, poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles entrapped β-carotene was produced using the nanoprecipitation method. Firstly, was evaluated the lipophilic surfactant effect and carrier agent of the active compound in the nanocapsules formulation. After choosing the most stable formulation, the nanocapsules production was optimized using β-carotene, caprylic/capric triglycerides (CCT) and soybean lecithin. Response surface methodology (RSM) was adopted to evaluate the influence of soy lecithin concentration, volume of CCT and β-carotene concentration in the particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI), encapsulation efficiency and recovery. Formulations containing soy lecithin and CCT demonstrated better stability comparing to the other formulations tested. The nanoparticle formulations presented an optimized particle size below 200 nm, PDI lower than 0.1 and encapsulation efficiency above 95%. Based on the results obtained, the optimum conditions to prepare PCL nanocapsules were 0.2160 mg/mL of β-carotene, 232.42 μL of CCT and 2.59 mg/mL of soy lecithin, suggesting an applicability to promote controlled released of β-carotene in food system.

Fatty acid profile and physicochemical characterization of buriti oil during storage / Perfil de ácido graxo e qualidade físico-química do óleo de buriti sob armazenamento

ABSTRACT: The objective of this research was to evaluate the fatty acid profile and physicochemical properties of buriti oil under storage conditions. The oil was analyzed for 70 days by evaluating the physicochemical characteristics of acidity index, refractive index, bulk density, absolute viscosity, peroxide index, lipid oxidation by TBARS method, color parameters (L *, a *, b *, C * e h *) and carotenoid profile (α-carotene and β-carotene) for every 10 days of storage, in addition to the β-carotene/linoleic acid system and fatty acid profile. Variables remained stable over the analysis periods and the total carotenoids ranged from 836.91 to 1036.96 µg/g. Oleic acid accounted for the highest content among fatty acids, with a value of 78.06 g/100 g of fatty acids and a ω6/ω3 ratio of 1.95. Buriti oil has a nutritional quality and a fatty acid profile that justifies recommendations for its consumption, suggesting the need for regulatory bodies to draw up a standardized protocol for extracting oil from the fruit pulp.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar o perfil de ácido graxo e a qualidade físico-química do óleo de buriti em condições de armazenamento. O óleo foi analisado durante 70 dias avaliando as características físico-química índice de acidez, índice de refração, densidade aparente, viscosidade absoluta, índice de peróxidos, oxidação lipídica pelo método de TBARS, parâmetros de cor (L*, a*, b*, C* e h*) e carotenoides (α-caroteno e β-caroteno) a cada 10 dias de armazenamento, além do sistema β-caroteno/ácido linoléico e perfil de ácidos graxos. As variáveis se mantiveram estáveis durante os períodos de análises e os carotenoides totais variaram entre 836,91 a 1036,96 µg/g. O ácido graxo com maior teor foi o ácido oleico com valor de 78,06 g/100 g de ácidos graxos e relação ω6/ω3 de 1,95. O óleo de buriti apresenta qualidade nutricional que justifica o estímulo ao consumo devido aos ácidos graxos que apresenta, necessitando dos órgãos reguladores a elaboração de um protocolo de extração do óleo da polpa do fruto.

Meloidogyne javanica parasitism on the vegetative growth and nutritional quality of carrots / Parasitismo de Meloidogyne javanica no crescimento vegetativo e na qualidade nutricional de cenouras

ABSTRACT: Meloidogyne javanica is a plant-parasitic nematode that infects a wide range of vegetables. Its negative effects on crop yield and value are well documented. However, few studies have investigated the impact of the parasite on the nutritional value of vegetables. This study aimed to assess the effect of M. javanica parasitism on the vegetative characteristics, nematological parameters, chemistry composition and antioxidant activity of carrots. Seedlings were inoculated with 0 (control), 1000, 2500, or 5000 eggs and eventual second-stage juveniles (J2) of M. javanica. At 60 days after inoculation, plants were harvested and evaluated. Plants inoculated with 2500 eggs and J2 of M. javanica had higher root and tuber fresh weight than the control. Gall number increased with increasing inoculum density. The number of nematodes in the roots increased until 3000 specimens, decreasing thereafter. Proximate analysis revealed that plants inoculated with 1000 eggs and J2 of M. javanica or more had higher protein content in roots. In contrast, inoculation with 1775 nematodes or more resulted in a decrease in carotenoid content. There was no effect of inoculation on total phenolic content or antioxidant activity. Although, M. javanica infection did not have a marked impact on the nutritional quality of carrots, gall formation resulted in deformed roots of low commercial value.

RESUMO: Meloidogyne javanica é um nematoide parasita de plantas que infecta uma grande variedade de vegetais. Seus efeitos negativos sobre o rendimento e o valor das culturas estão bem documentados. No entanto, poucos estudos investigaram o impacto do parasita no valor nutricional dos vegetais. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito do parasitismo por M. javanica sobre as características vegetativas, parâmetros nematológicos, composição química e atividade antioxidante de cenouras. As plântulas foram inoculadas com 0 (controle), 1000, 2500 ou 5000 ovos e eventuais juvenis (J2) de M. javanica no segundo estágio. Aos 60 dias após a inoculação, as plantas foram colhidas e avaliadas. As plantas inoculadas com 2500 ovos e J2 de M. javanica apresentaram maior peso fresco das raízes e tubérculos que o controle. O número de galhas aumentou com o aumento da densidade do inóculo. Verificou-se aumento do número de nematoides nas raízes até 3000 espécimes, diminuindo posteriormente. A análise imediata revelou que plantas inoculadas com 1000 ovos e J2 de M. javanica ou mais tinham maior teor de proteína nas raízes. Por outro lado, a inoculação com 1775 nematoides ou mais resultou em diminuição no conteúdo de carotenoides. Não houve efeito da inoculação no conteúdo fenólico total ou na atividade antioxidante. Embora a infecção por M. javanica não tenha impactado significativamente a qualidade nutricional das cenouras, a formação de galhas resultou em raízes deformadas e de baixo valor comercial.

Nutritional quality and functional lipids in the free-range egg yolks of Brazilian family farmers / Calidad alimenticia y lípidos funcionales en las yemas de gallina del campo de agricultores de familias Brasileñas

ABSTRACT Nowadays consumers are more concerned about food quality as well as how food is produced. Moreover, consumer demand for more natural, nutritious, safer to eat, and environmentally sustainable food has drawn attention to alternative breeding systems, such as a free-range system. Hens' eggs represent a rich source of important nutrients, including lipids and carotenoids. A detailed characterization of the nutritional and lipid profile of free-range chicken eggs from family farms was carried out. The chemical composition of the free-range egg yolks confirmed the advantages of this farming system, as a relevant source of unsaturated fatty acids and carotenoids, functional compounds in the human diet. These findings can help improve income generation, food supplementation, and consolidation of the family farming system.

RESUMEN Cada vez más los consumidores se preocupan por la calidad de los alimentos, así como tambien de como ellos son producidos. Además, la demanda de los consumidores por alimentos más naturales, nutritivos, más seguros para el consumo y ambientalmente sostenibles ha llamado la atención a sistemas de cría de alternativa, como el sistema de gallina del campo. Los huevos de gallinas representan una fuente rica de sustancias nutritivas importantes, incluyendo lípidos y carotenoids. Fue realizada una caracterización detallada de los nutrientes y del perfil lipídicos de huevos de gallinas del campo de agricultores familiares. La composición química de yemas de gallinas del campo confirmó las ventajas de este sistema de producción, como una fuente importante compuestos funcionales como ácidos grasos insaturados y carotenoides, en la dieta humana. Además, estos hallados pueden ayudar a mejorar la generación de ingreso, la suplementación de alimentos y la consolidación de sistema de agricultura familiar.

Nutritional composition and acceptance of cake elaborated with beauregard potato biofortified with carotenoids / Composição nutricional e aceitação de bolo elaborado com batata beauregard biofortificada com carotenoides

Beauregard biofortified sweet potato is a tuberous root with a high content of carotenoids whose consumption can bring beneficial effects on human health related to the biological actions of these substances. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the acceptance of cake made with sweet potato biofortified with carotenoids by school children enrolled in a school of the municipal education network of the city of Teresina PI. The sweet cake containing biofortified potato (Beauregard) (PC) was compared with standard sweet wheat flour (WC) cake formulation. The PC and WC products and the Beauregard potato were analyzed for centesimal composition (moisture, ashes, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates) and total carotenoid content. Acceptance of PC was assessed by means of an acceptance test with a hedonic scale of five points applied to 100 children from 08 to 10 years of age. The evaluation of the centesimal composition showed protein content corresponding to 2.1% in WC and 3.57% in PC, and of lipids of 5.16% in WC and 8.95% inPC. Regarding the moisture content, WC presented 32.5% and PC 38.44%. The content of fixed minerals (ash) found in formulations was 1.9% and 1.26%, respectively, in WC and PC. The carotenoid content (µg of ß-carotene.g-1) was significantly higher (p <0.05) in the biofortified potato (3,200.01 ± 0.02) and in the PC formulations (3,666.17 ± 2.55) and WC (3,066.53 ± 1.88) for common sweet potatoes (2.200,23 ± 1.63). In the five-point facial hedonistic acceptance test, the formulation containing biofortified potato (PC) obtained a significantly higher score (p <0.05) (4.24 ± 0.93) when compared to the WC formulation (3.75 ± 1.19). The biofortified potato and the cake containing the biofortified potato presented some characteristics related to the centesimal composition similar to those found in WC and the content of carotenoids in PC larger than those of WC. Because sweet cake is a food product, generally well accepted by children and adults, PC's greateracceptance of WC suggests its promising potential for consumption by the population.

A batata-doce Beauregard biofortificada é uma raiz tuberosa com alto teor de carotenoides, cujo consumo pode trazer efeitos benéficos na saúde humana relacionados com as ações biológicas dessassubstâncias. Os objetivos deste estudo foram avaliar a aceitação de bolo elaborado com batata doce biofortificada com carotenoides por crianças em idade escolar matriculados em uma escola da rede municipal de ensino da cidade de Teresina PI. O bolo doce contendo batata biofortificada (Beauregard) (BB) foi comparado com formulação padrão de bolo doce de farinha de trigo (BT). Os produtos BB e BT e a batata Beauregard foram analisados quanto à composição centesimal (umidade, cinzas, proteínas, lipídeos e carboidratos) e conteúdo de carotenóides totais. A aceitação do BB foi avaliada por meio de teste de aceitação com escala hedônica facial de cinco pontos aplicado em 100 crianças de 08 a 10 anos de idade. A avaliação da composição centesimal mostrou conteúdo protéico correspondendo 2,1% no BT e 3,57% no BB, e de lipídiosde 5,16% no BT e 8,95% no BB. Em relação ao teor de umidade, o BT apresentou 32,5% e BB 38,44%. O teor de minerais fixos (cinzas) encontrado nas formulações foi de 1,9% e 1,26%, respectivamente, no BT e BB. O conteúdo de carotenoides (µ g de ß-caroteno.g-1) foi significativamente maior (p<0,05) na batata biofortificada (3.200,01 ± 0,02) e nas formulações BB (3.666,17 ± 2,55) e BT (3.066,53 ± 1,88) em relação à Figure 1. Acceptance rate of Beauregard potato and wheat cake formulations.. batata doce comum (2.200,00 ± 1,63). No teste de aceitação escala hedonica facial de cinco pontos a formulação contendo batata biofortificada (BB) obteve nota significativamente maior (p<0,05) (4,24± 0,93) quando comparada com a formulação BT (3,75± 1,19). A batata biofortificada e o bolo contendo a batata biofortificada apresentaram algumas características relacionadas à composição centesimal semelhantes àquelas encontradas no BT e conteúdo de carotenoides no BB maiores que os do BT. Por ser o bolo doce um produto alimentício, de modo geral, bem aceito por crianças e adultos, a maior aceitação do BB em relação ao BT sugere seu potencial promissor para consumo pela população.

Response of Bioactive Phytochemicals in Vegetables and Fruits to Environmental Factors

This review focused on the influence of environmental systems and/or factors including high tunnel, UV and visible light, fertilization, and irrigation on bioactive compounds in vegetables and fruits. Most studies reported that high tunnel reduced chicoric acid and luteolin in vegetables including lettuce and pac choi, and fruits including raspberry and tomato versus open field, although a few studies demonstrated that high tunnel did not significantly impact on the bioactive compounds. Light including UV such as photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), UV-A, and UV-B, and visible light especially red and blue light, significantly stimulated biosynthesis of anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolics, and promoted their contents in vegetables such as onion and spinach, and fruits for example blueberry and strawberry. The effect of fertilization including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium on bioactive phytochemicals (carotenoids, flavonoids, polyphenols) in vegetables (broccoli, kale) or fruits (tomato) varied among the cultivars. Water deficit usually increased anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids in vegetables such as lettuce and red beet, and fruits including grape and pomegranate. Taken together, the bioactive compounds in vegetables and fruits in response to environmental factors were species- and varieties- dependent. The negative effect of environmental factors on bioactive compounds in vegetables and fruits can be overcome by selecting appropriate cultivars, while the positive effect can be further manipulated in horticultural production for potential consumer’s health benefits.

Antioxidant compounds and capacities of Gac (Momordica cochinchinensis Spreng) fruits

Objective: To identify and determine the composition of antioxidant compounds, and to evaluate the antioxidant abilities of Gac fruit parts (peel, pulp, seed and aril) grown in Malaysia. Methods: LC-MS/MS was used for identification of antioxidant compounds and UV-Vis for estimation of the contents of phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Lycopene and β-carotene were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays were employed to evaluate antioxidant capacities. Results: Phytochemicals were found amongst all the fruit parts. Notably, significant amounts of carotenoids [(107.4 ± 4.5), (85.7 ± 4.4), (110.6 ± 2.1) mg/100 g dry weight (DW)], and relatively high levels of both phenolics [(27.3 ± 1.7), (28.9 ± 2.4), (30.8 ± 2.7) mg/100 g DW] and flavonoids [(38.1 ± 2.2), (8.8 ± 1.3), (24.5 ± 3.3) mg/100 g DW] were found in the fruit's peel, pulp and aril, respectively. Seed part also showed a relatively high level of flavonoids [(18.1 ± 2.3) mg/100 g DW]. Lycopene and β-carotene were found to be significantly high (P < 0.05) in aril [(579.3 ± 22.7) and (621.0 ± 35.0) μg/g DW], followed by peel [(51.0 ± 7.5) and (210.0 ± 12.5) μg/g DW] and pulp [(37.6 ± 10.9) and (205.6 ± 22.1) μg/g DW)]. Antioxidant assays revealed that aril possessed the highest scavenging activity (IC

Antioxidant compounds and capacities of Gac (Momordica cochinchinensis Spreng) fruits

Objective: To identify and determine the composition of antioxidant compounds, and to evaluate the antioxidant abilities of Gac fruit parts (peel, pulp, seed and aril) grown in Malaysia.Methods: LC-MS/MS was used for identification of antioxidant compounds and UV-Vis for estimation of the contents of phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Lycopene and β-carotene were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays were employed to evaluate antioxidant capacities.Results: Phytochemicals were found amongst all the fruit parts. Notably, significant amounts of carotenoids [(107.4 ± 4.5), (85.7 ± 4.4), (110.6 ± 2.1) mg/100 g dry weight (DW)], and relatively high levels of both phenolics [(27.3 ± 1.7), (28.9 ± 2.4), (30.8 ± 2.7) mg/100 g DW]and flavonoids [(38.1 ± 2.2), (8.8 ± 1.3), (24.5 ± 3.3) mg/100 g DW] were found in the fruit's peel, pulp and aril, respectively. Seed part also showed a relatively high level of flavonoids [(18.1 ± 2.3) mg/100 g DW]. Lycopene and β-carotene were found to be significantly high (P < 0.05)in aril [(579.3 ± 22.7) and (621.0 ± 35.0) μg/g DW], followed by peel [(51.0 ± 7.5) and (210.0 ± 12.5) μg/g DW] and pulp [(37.6 ± 10.9) and (205.6 ± 22.1) μg/g DW)]. Antioxidant assays revealed that aril possessed the highest scavenging activity (IC50 = 865 μg/mL), while the peel possessed the highest ferric reducing power of 140 μmol FeSO4/μg.Conclusions: The current results demonstrate that Gac fruit grown in Malaysia is a rich source of phytochemicals, especially carotenoids, and possesses antioxidant activities. Thus, such findings suggest Gac fruit as a source of an antioxidant plant.

Research progress of effect of carotenoids on maternal and child health / 上海交通大学学报（医学版）

Early life nutrition plays an important role in determining the pregnancy outcomes and offspring lifelong health. Carotenoids deficiency is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preeclampsia, premature delivery and intrauterine growth restriction. Carotenoids possess antioxidant, inflammation modulating and immune-enhancing properties and promote visual, cognitive and respiratory health in offsprings. Among carotenoids, α-carotene, β-carotene and β-cryptoxanthin can be transformed into vitamin A in vivo, and their conversion rates are affected by the nutritional status of vitamin A. Lutein and zeaxanthin are highly enriched in the brain and retina of infants and young children, which are closely related to the development of visual acuity and cognitive function. Breast milk contains an adequate level of lutein and its absorption rate is significantly higher than that of infant formulas. Consequently lutein supplementation is necessary for artificially fed infants, especially premature infants. In this paper, the functional research progresses of carotenoids related to adverse pregnancy outcomes and offspring development, as well as the present situation of carotenoids supplementation in formula were reviewed.