Investigating the potential of yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) juice in the development of organic apple-based snacks.

This study investigates the potential of yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) juice for the development of prebiotic-rich organic apple-based snacks. Yacon syrup, primarily composed of fructan, inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and free sugars, represents a promising nutraceutical product. Its great potential in food processing, particularly as an innovative source of prebiotics, has been demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo since it is fermented specifically by lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. Our objective was to explore the feasibility of employing vacuum impregnation process to incorporate yacon juice into organic apples, followed by hot air drying for the formulation of dried organic apple-based snacks with health-enhancing attributes. We assessed the prebiotic and physicochemical characteristics of the impregnated snacks, also considering 50 days of storage at room temperature. Vacuum impregnation and air drying produced dried apple slices impregnated with yacon juice with good quality and stability. Higher levels of fructan (16-fold difference compared to non-impregnated apples) in the apple slices increased their prebiotic potential, promoting the growth and viability of cells within simulated intestinal fluid, including strains of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB -12, Bifidobacterium breve DSM 20091, Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis DSM 20088, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus C112, even after prolonged storage. Remarkably, the physicochemical parameters of the impregnated and dried apple slices remained nearly constant and akin to the control samples. Therefore, the combination of vacuum impregnation and air drying has the potential to be used to produce enriched prebiotic organic apple snacks, providing consumers with additional health benefits, including enhanced gut health, with its associated implications, and increased satiety. This innovation could contribute to the development of health-promoting food products with improved nutritional profiles.

Effects of Smallanthus sonchifolius Flour on Metabolic Parameters: A Systematic Review.

Smallanthus sonchifolius, popularly known as yacon, is a member of the Asteraceae family. Due to its medicinal and edible value, yacon is consumed by different populations. Yacon is unique due to its high fructo-oligosaccharide and inulin content, as well as flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and phenolic acids. Roots can be used to produce flour, which is less perishable and can be applied in various industrial products. This systematic review focuses on the effects of yacon flour on metabolic parameters. PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were consulted, and PRISMA guidelines were followed in the selection of the studies. In total, 526 articles were found in the databases, and of these, only 28 full texts were eligible for inclusion. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, seven studies were finally included. The results showed that the use of yacon flour can reduce glycemia, HbA1c, advanced glycation ends, plasma lipids, body fat mass, body weight, and waist circumference and improve intestinal microbiota and the antioxidant status. Further exploration of the effects of yacon flour is warranted, and additional clinical trials are necessary to determine the optimal daily consumption levels required to assist in improving metabolic parameters.

Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) root extracts affect laying performance, egg quality, serum biochemical parameters and intestinal microbiota in hens.

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of yacon root extracts (YREs) on productive performance and health of laying hens. Methods: Six hundred 30-week-old Xiaoshan Chicken layers were divided into 5 groups, control group, antibiotic positive control group, and 3 YREs treatment groups. In a 9-wk feeding experiment, at the end of wk 3, 6 and 9, twenty eggs were collected from each replicate to measure egg qualities. At the end of wk 9, three hen serum samples, and 5 hen cecal content samples were collected from each replicate. Results: Compared to the control group, 0.8%, 1.6% and 2.4% YREs treatments could increase hens' daily feed intake, and YREs supplementation affected daily feed intake in linear manner. YREs did not change egg size, but 0.8% and 2.4% YREs changed egg shape by decreasing the egg shape index and sphericity, and 0.8% YREs tended to improve the eggshell breaking strength. 1.6% YREs might decrease yolk color grade but optimize the pH of thick egg white in fresh egg; moreover, 1.6% and 2.4% YREs might be helpful for eggs to inhibit water loss during storage, and YREs supplementation affected water loss rate in linear manner. 2.4% YREs could decrease the serum lactate dehydrogenases (LDH) level, and YREs supplemental levels linearly affected serum LDH content. Finally, YREs could enrich the diversity of intestinal microbiota of hens fed with 0.8% and be beneficial for the relative abundance of phylum Bacteroidota and Halobacterota; 2.4% YREs might increase the abundance of phylum Actinobacteriota and genus Bifidobacterium, while decrease genus Bacteroides; YREs supplemental levels affected the abundance of phylum Actinobacteriota, and genera Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides in linear manner. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with YREs could affect egg quality, protect the health of organs and exhibit prebiotic activity.

[Yacon root extract improves lipid metabolism in hyperlipidemic rats by inhibiting HMGCR expression and activating the PPARα/CYP7A1/CPT-1 pathway].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of yacon root extract on lipid metabolism in rats with hyperlipidemia (HLP) and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS: SD rat models of HLP induced by high- fat diet feeding for 8 weeks were randomized into the model group, fenofibrate treatment group (27 mg/kg), and yacon extract treatment groups at doses of 5, 2.5 and 1.25 g/kg (n=10). The rats were given corresponding drug treatments via gavage for 8 weeks. After the treatments, the rats were observed for body weight changes, liver coefficient, liver pathology, and serum levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). The mRNA and protein expressions of HMGCR, PPARα, CYP7A1, and CPT-1 in the liver were detected using RT-qPCR and Western blotting. RESULTS: Compared with those in the model group, the rats treated with fenofibrate and 5 g/kg yacon root extract showed significantly slower body weight gain and lower liver coefficient (P < 0.05) with lower serum levels of TG, TC, and LDL- C (P < 0.05) but higher HDL- C level (P < 0.05). The HLP rat models showed obvious fatty degeneration and vacuolar changes in the liver, which were significantly alleviated by fenofibrate treatment and by treatment with yacon root extract in a dose-dependent manner. Both fenofibrate and 5 g/kg yacon root extract significantly lowered the mRNA and protein expression levels of HMGCR (P < 0.001) and increased the expressions of PPARα, CYP7A1, and CPT-1 in the liver of HLP rats (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Yacon root extract can reduce serum TG and TC levels in HLP rats possibly by inhibiting HMGCR expression and activating the PPARα/CYP7A1/CPT-1 signaling pathway, thereby promoting fatty acid ß oxidation and bile acid metabolism.

Desarrollo de un endulzante natural a base de yacón (Smallanthus sonchifolius) y su evaluación sensorial / Development of a natural sweetener based on yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) and its sensory evaluation

Fundamentos: El yacón se considera un producto prometedor que puede posicionarse en el mercado dealimentos funcionales, dado su valor nutricional representado principalmente por su alto contenido defructooligosacáridos. La obtención de un sirope de yacón agrega valor a esta materia prima, incentivando suproducción y consumo, no solo como endulzante de mesa, sino como materia prima para la industria e inclusocomo alimento funcional. El objetivo de este trabajo fue estandarizar las condiciones para la elaboración deun sirope de yacón, y mediante análisis sensorial realizar su descripción y valoración organoléptica.Métodos: Se definieron las condiciones para la obtención de sirope de yacón y se evaluó mediante pruebasdescriptivas y afectivas en un análisis sensorial con evaluadores semi entrenados.Resultados: Con un rendimiento de cerca del 10,0% a partir de yacón fresco, se obtuvo un sirope con 65°Brixy aspecto similar a la miel, en el que se destacaron aromas a miel, propóleos y caramelo. En las pruebasafectivas, utilizando una escala hedónica de cinco puntos, las mayores valoraciones fueron para los atributoscolor 4,8 ± 0,6 y textura 4,5 ± 0,7 y la menor para el sabor 3,2 ± 1,0.Conclusiones: Las características sensoriales y su aceptabilidad proyectan el sirope de yacón como un potencialalimento funcional comercializable. (AU)

Background: Yacon is considered a promising product that can be positioned in the functional food market,given its nutritional value represented mainly by its high FOS content. Obtaining a yacon syrup adds value tothis raw material, encouraging its production and consumption, not only as a table sweetener, but also as a rawmaterial for the industry. The objetive was to standardize the conditions for the elaboration of a yacon syrup,and through sensory analysis to carry out its description and organoleptic evaluation.Methods: The conditions for obtaining yacon syrup were defined. And it was evaluated through descriptiveand affective tests in a sensory analysis with semi-trained evaluators.Results: With a yield of close to 10.0% from fresh yacon, a syrup with 65°Brix and an appearance similar tohoney was obtained, in which aromas of honey, propolis and caramel stand out. In the affective tests, using afive-point hedonic scale, the highest evaluations were for the attributes color 4.8 ± 0.6 and texture 4.5 ± 0.7and the lowest for flavor 3.2 ± 1.0.Conclusions: The sensory characteristics and its acceptability project yacon syrup as a potentially marketable functional food. (AU)

Protective effect of yacon leaves extract (Smallanthus sonchifolius (Poepp.) H. Rob) through antifibrosis, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant mechanisms toward diabetic nephropathy.

Background and purpose: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a chronic kidney failure, which may lead to fatality. Mesangial cell proliferation, renal inflammation, stress oxidative, and fibrosis are involved in DN progression. Yacon leaves (Smallanthus sonchifolius (Poepp.) H. Rob.) contains large amounts of phenolic compounds and it has the ability to inhibit oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. Considering the potential of yacon leaves extract (YLE), it may be used for DN treatment. This research aimed to elucidate YLE's potential as anti-DN through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antifibrosis mechanisms. Experimental approach: Mesangial cells were induced by glucose 20 mM for 5 days and treated with YLE concentrations as much as 5, 10, and 50 µg/mL. TGF-ß1, TNF-α, and MDA levels were measured using the ELISA method. SMAD2, SMAD3, SMAD4, and SMAD7 gene expressions were analyzed using the qRT-PCR method. Findings/Results: YLE at 5, 10, and 50 µg/mL could reduce the levels of TGF-ß1, TNF-α, and MDA compared with the DN cells model. YLE could reduce gene expressions of SMAD2, SMAD3, and SMAD4 and increase SMAD7 expression. Conclusion and implications: YLE potentially mitigated diabetic nephropathy through antifibrosis, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant capacities.

Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) and kefir improved intestinal and bone health but without symbiotic benefits in rats.

Kefir is a natural source of probiotics, and yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) is a tuberous root rich in fructooligosaccharides, with prebiotic properties. We hypothesized that kefir and yacon can improve bone and intestinal health and that their synbiotic effects will enhance these benefits. The properties of yacon and kefir and their association were evaluated in the intestinal and bone health in rats. Forty Wistar male rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 10): control (C), kefir (K), yacon (Y), and yacon + kefir (YK) and received an AIN-93 M diet containing 50% of the daily recommendation of calcium for 42 days. Group K received 1 mL/day of kefir containing 108 CFU/mL; group Y received yacon flour (5% fructooligosaccharides); and the YK group received the same treatment as the Y and K groups. Urine and feces were collected to determine the calcium balance. Serum biomarkers of bone formation and resorption, osteocalcin, N telopeptides of collagen type I and C-telopeptide of collagen type I, intraluminal pH, intestinal permeability, and secretory immunoglobulin A were evaluated. Yacon reduced intraluminal pH alone or in association with kefir (groups Y and YK). Yacon also improved intestinal permeability (lowered lactulose and mannitol excretion) and increased calcium balance and osteocalcin, a biomarker of bone formation. In turn, K improved immunity by increasing secretory immunoglobulin A secretion and reducing bone resorption biomarkers (C-telopeptide of collagen type I and N telopeptides of collagen type I). Thus, yacon and kefir had beneficial effects on intestinal and bone health; however, the association between them did not demonstrate a synbiotic effect.

Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) Flour Reduces Inflammation and Had No Effects on Oxidative Stress and Endotoxemia in Wistar Rats with Induced Colorectal Carcinogenesis.

Colorectal cancer has a high worldwide incidence. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of yacon flour (YF) on oxidative stress, inflammation, and endotoxemia in rats with induced colorectal cancer (CRC). The Wistar male rats were divided and kept for 8 weeks in four groups: S (basal diet, n = 10), Y (YF flour + basal diet, n = 10), C (CRC-induced control + basal diet, n = 12), CY (CRC-induced animals + YF, n = 12). CRC was induced by intraperitoneal injections of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (25 mg/kg body weight). Groups Y and CY received 7.5% of the prebiotic FOS from YF. The treatment with YF increased fecal secretory immunoglobulin A levels and decreased lipopolysaccharides, tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-12. However, no effect was observed on the oxidative stress by the total antioxidant capacity of plasma, anion superoxide, and nitric oxide analysis of the animals (p < 0.05). The short-chain fatty acids acetate, propionate, and butyrate showed interactions with NF-κB, TLR4, iNOS, and NADPH oxidase by in silico analysis and had a correlation (by the Person analysis) with CRC markers. The yacon flour treatment reduced the inflammation in rats with induced CRC, and could be a promising food to reduce the damages caused by colorectal cancer.

Quantification of Enhydrin and Uvedalin in the Ethanolic Extract of Smallanthus sonchifolius Leaves Validated by the HPLC Method.

Yacon leaf (Smallanthus sonchifolius, Asteraceae) ethanolic extracts are widely used in herbal medicine preparation for diabetes. They contain two sesquiterpene lactones (enhydrin (1) and uvedalin (2)) as major bioactive compounds. To provide a suitable method of analysis for the extract's quality control, we developed and validated a simultaneous HPLC-UV method using the compounds as markers. Compounds 1 and 2 were isolated using a freeze crystallization technique followed by a preparative HPLC. Spectrometry data for 1 and 2 were determined and compared to the literature. Chromatographic separation was carried out for 30 min with a mobile phase that used 60% water and 40% acetonitrile and a C18 column (250 × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) as the stationary phase. The flow was set to 1 mL min-1 and detection was conducted at 210 nm. The validation method was conducted according to the ICH guidelines, which included linearity, precision, accuracy, LOD, and LOQ. The calibration curve of both compounds was linear (R 2 > 0.9999), with the limit of detection and quantification as follows, respectively, 0.52 and 1.57 µg/mL for 1, and 0.144 and 0.436 µg/mL for 2. The percentages of recovery and repeatability (%RSD) were, 101.46 and 0.30% for 1, and 97.68 and 0.08% for 2, respectively. The 1 and 2 were 1.67 and 0.88% in the Ykal extract, and 1.26 and 0.56% in the Ycin extract, respectively. The method was found to be linear, precise, accurate, and suitable to be applied for control quality analyses of yacon leaf extract.

Daily Intake of Smallanthus sonchifolius (Yacon) Roots Reduces the Progression of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver in Rats Fed a High Fructose Diet.

High-fructose diet is associated with an increased risk of dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, and the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) through chronic inflammation. The present study aimed to elucidate the potential benefit of daily consumption of Smallanthus sonchifolius (yacon) roots, rich in fructooligosaccharides (FOS), on the progression to liver fibrosis, in a rat model of NAFLD induced by a high-fructose diet. Male Wistar rats were fed a standard diet (CD, n = 6) or a standard diet plus 10% fructose solution (FD; n = 18). After 20 weeks, FD rats were randomly separated into the following groups (n = 6, each): FD; FD treated with yacon flour (340 mg FOS/body weight; FD + Y) and FD treated with fenofibrate (30 mg/kg body weight; FD + F), for 16 weeks. Daily intake of yacon flour significantly reduced body weight gain, plasma lipid levels, transaminase activities, and improved systemic insulin response in FD rats. In the liver, yacon treatment decreased fructose-induced steatosis and inflammation, and reduced total collagen deposition (64%). Also, yacon decreased TGF-ß1 mRNA expression (78%), followed by decreased nuclear localization of p-Smad2/3 in liver tissue. Yacon significantly reduced the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), Col1α1, and Col3α1 mRNAs (85, 44, and 47%, respectively), inhibiting the activation of resident hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). These results suggested that yacon roots have the potential to ameliorate liver damage caused by long-term consumption of a high-fructose diet, being a promising nutritional strategy in NAFLD management.

A Comprehensive Chemical and Nutritional Analysis of New Zealand Yacon Concentrate.

Global interest in yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) is growing due to its potential as a functional food, attributable to its unique profile of bioactives and high fructooligosaccharide (FOS) content, which vary between cultivars. Our objective was to conduct a comprehensive chemical and nutritional analysis of New Zealand yacon concentrate (NZYC)-a sweet syrup derived from the roots of cultivar 'New Zealand', which was first grown in the 1980s. The major minerals in NZYC were potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. The FOS content ranged from 17.6 to 52.7 g/100g. Total phenolic content ranged from 565 to 785 mg gallic acid equivalents per 100 g; chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid were the major phenolic compounds. The major amino acids were L-arginine, L-glutamic acid, L-proline, L-aspartic acid, and asparagine. The major organic acids were citric, malic, quinic, and fumaric acids. Antioxidant activity ranged from 1084.14 to 3085.78 mg Trolox equivalents per 100 g depending on the assay used. The glycaemic index (GI) value was 40 ± 0.22, classifying it as a low-GI food. These results support the classification of NZYC as a nutraceutical food product for future diet therapy applications.

Ethanol Extract of Yacon Leaves (Smallanthus sonchifolius) Attenuates Fibroblast and Myofibroblast Expansion in Association With Downregulation of TGF β1 and Snail mRNA Expression in 5/6-Subtotal Nephrectomy Model in Mice

@#Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by fibroblast activation, myofibroblast formation, and up-regulation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) that may activate Snail in fibroblast to myofibroblast transition. Ethanol extract of Yacon leaves is known to have a renoprotective effect on diabetic nephropathy but its effect in the CKD model is unknown. This experimental study aimed to elucidate the effect of ethanol extract from Yacon leaves in attenuating renal failure in a CKD mice model. Methods: Male Swiss-Webster mice (3 months, 30–40 grams, n=25) underwent 5/6 subtotal nephrectomy (SN) to induce CKD. The mice were divided into five groups: SN, SN mice with oral treatment of Yacon leaves ethanol extract with doses 0.735 μg/kg (SN+YK1), 1.47 μg/kg (SN+YK2), and 2.94 μg/kg (SN+YK3), and a Sham operation (SO) group with aquadest 0.1% supplementation. Mice were euthanized on day 14 after the operation and kidneys were harvested. Paraffin sections were used for histological analysis. Immunostaining was done for quantifying fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. We performed RT-PCR to measure TGF-β1 and Snail mRNA expressions. Results: The SN group had significantly higher fibroblast number, myofibroblast fraction area, TGF-β1 and Snail mRNA expressions compared to the SO. The fibroblasts number (p<0.001) and myofibroblast fraction areas (p<0.001) were significantly lower in Yacon treated-groups compared to the SN group. RT-PCR analysis showed lower mRNA expressions of TGF-β1 and Snail, but no significant differences were found among the various Yacon treated-groups. Conclusion: Ethanol extracts of Yacon leaves improved kidney damage in male mice with 5/6 subtotal nephrectomy model.

Influence of Smallanthus sonchifolius (Yacon) on the Activity of Antidepressant Drugs in Mice.

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the world that negatively affects the daily functioning of patients. Numerous studies are currently being conducted to examine the antidepressant potential of innovative synthetic compounds and herbal substances. Yacon, Smallantchus sonchifolius, belongs to plants with numerous health-beneficial properties. Yacon-based products are regarded as a functional food. In our study, we attempted to check whether administration of Yacon tuber extract would have an antidepressant effect in the forced swim test (FST) in mice and whether its intake could influence the activity of conventional antidepressant drugs with different mechanisms of action, i.e., imipramine hydrochloride, fluoxetine hydrochloride, and reboxetine mesylate. The spontaneous locomotor activity of the tested mice was also investigated to eliminate any false-positive results. We demonstrated that an intragastric administration of the Yacon tuber extract at a dose of 100 mg/kg induced the antidepressant-like behavior in the FST in mice and that a combined administration of the sub-effective doses of the Yacon extract (50 mg/kg) with imipramine hydrochloride (7.5 mg/kg), fluoxetine hydrochloride (20 mg/kg), or reboxetine mesylate (5 mg/kg) significantly reduced the immobility time of animals in this behavioral test. The obtained results were not affected by the increased locomotor activity of the tested subjects. In conclusion, our findings suggest that Yacon tuber extract is promising as an alternative mood-improving product since it possesses an antidepressant potential and it can acts synergistically with conventional antidepressant drugs.

Effects of yacon flour associated with an energy restricted diet on intestinal permeability, fecal short chain fatty acids, oxidative stress and inflammation markers levels in adults with obesity or overweight: a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: Yacon flour is rich in bioactive compounds (phenolic compounds and fructooligosaccharides (FOS)), and may therefore reduce the risk of diseases associated with excess body weight. However, its effect on fecal short chain fatty acids (SCFA), intestinal permeability, oxidative stress and inflammation markers has not been studied in adult humans with excess body weight. Thus, we evaluated the effect of the consumption of yacon flour on these variables. METHODS: Twenty-six excess body weight (30.4 ± 2.4 kg/m2) adults (31.3 ± 8.5y) were randomized to one of two groups (yacon flour or control; n = 13) on a double blind clinical trial. Subjects received a breakfast drink containing or not yacon flour (25g) associated with an energy restricted diet, for six weeks. The flour chemical characterization, FOS and total phenolics contents were evaluated. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated in vitro and in vivo (plasma). Intestinal permeability, fecal SCFA, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers also were evaluated in vivo. RESULTS: Yacon flour was well tolerated. It presented an in vitro and in vivo antioxidant capacity, increased plasma total antioxidant capacity (ΔYAC: 49.16 (-4.20; 156.63)) and reduced protein carbonyl concentrations (ΔYAC: -0.98 (-1.54; -0.42)). A reduction in SCFAs was observed in both groups (Δacetic: -3.16 (-5.07; -0.95) vs. -1.05 (-2.65; 1.11); Δpropionic: -1.05 (-2.60;-0.38) vs. -0.41 (-2.08; 0.09); Δbutyric -0.75 (-1.38; -0.04) vs. -0.28 (-0.98; 0.11), for YAC and CON, respectively). Other variables did not change. CONCLUSION: The yacon flour increased the plasma antioxidant capacity, decreased oxidative stress and SCFAs in adults with obesity or overweight.

Evaluation of the efficacy of probiotic VSL#3 and synbiotic VSL#3 and yacon-based product in reducing oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in mice induced to colorectal carcinogenesis.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of probiotic VSL#3 isolated or associated with a yacon-based product (synbiotic) on oxidative stress modulation and intestinal permeability in an experimental model of colorectal carcinogenesis. Forty-five C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups: control (standard diet AIN-93 M); probiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M and multispecies probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU), and synbiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M with yacon-based product, 6% fructooligosaccharides and inulin, and probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU). The experimental diets were provided for 13 weeks. The probiotic and the yacon-based product showed antioxidant activity, with the percentage of DPPH radical scavenging equal to 69.7 ± 0.4% and 74.3 ± 0.1%, respectively. These findings contributed to reduce hepatic oxidative stress: the control group showed higher concentration of malondialdehyde (1.8-fold, p = 0.007 and 1.5-fold, p = 0.035) and carbonylated protein (2-fold, p = 0.008 and 5.6-fold, p = 0.000) compared to the probiotic and synbiotic groups, respectively. Catalase enzyme activity increased 1.43-fold (p = 0.014) in synbiotic group. The crypt depth increased 1.2-fold and 1.4-fold with the use of probiotic and synbiotic, respectively, compared to the control diet (p = 0.000). These findings corroborate the reduction in intestinal permeability in the probiotic and synbiotic groups, as measured by the percentage of urinary lactulose excretion (CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × PRO: 0.44 ± 0.05%, p = 0.048; and CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × SYN: 0.41 ± 0.12%, p = 0.043). In conclusion, the probiotic and synbiotic showed antioxidant activity, which contributed to the reduction of oxidative stress markers. In addition, they protected the mucosa from damage caused by chemical carcinogen and reduced intestinal permeability. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The relationship between intestinal health and the occurrence of various organic disorders has been demonstrated in many studies. The use of probiotics and prebiotics is currently one of the main targets for modulation of intestinal health. We demonstrated that the use of a commercial mix of probiotic bacteria (VSL#3) isolated or associated with a yacon-based prebiotic, rich in fructooligosaccharides and inulin, is able to reduce the oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in a colorectal carcinogenesis model. These compounds have great potential to be used as a food supplement, or as ingredients in the development of food products.

O consumo de produto à base de yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) aumenta glucagon-like peptide-1 e diminui o peso corporal de ratas Wistar ovariectomizadas / Yacon-based product consumption (Smallanthus sonchifolius) increases glucagon-like peptide-1 and reduces the body weight of ovariectomized Wistar rats

A raiz do yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius), em função da rica concentração de fruto-oligossacarídeos, é classificada como prebiótico e tornou-se promissora da obesidade pelo aumento da saciedade. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a inclusão de um produto à base de yacon (PBY) em ratas ovariectomizadas (OVX) no consumo alimentar, na modulação de medidas antropométricas e do imunomarcador da saciedade glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) em ratas Wistar ovariectomizadas (OVX). Analisou-se o consumo alimentar pela pesagem diária de sobra de dieta, a porcentagem de gordura corporal foi determinada pelo índice de Lee e também foram avaliados o peso, o índice de massa corporal (IMC) e circunferência abdominal. Fragmentos do ceco foram utilizados para imunomarcação de GLP-1, de ratas OVX, após serem alimentadas por 24 semanas com dieta padrão adicionadas ou não de 6% de FOS/inulina/PBY. Observou-se diminuição da circunferência abdominal (p=0,2173) em 3,5%, também houve decréscimo de IMC (p=0,3822) em 6,25% e de percentual de gordura corporal (p=0,3528) em 2,14% em animais que receberam PBY durante 24 semanas (G4) comparado aos animais do grupo controle. No grupo G4 o GLP-1 aumentou (p<.0001), os animais aumentaram o consumo (p=0,0064) e, paradoxalmente, tiveram menor ganho de peso (p<.0001), o que pode estar associado ao fato de que as fibras diminuem a eficiência de absorção de lipídeos ao longo do intestino delgado, o que pode diminuir a assimilação calórica de nutrientes. Esse fenômeno demonstra que o PBY possui potencial na modulação da obesidade, portanto, melhoria da qualidade de vida de mulheres na menopausa.(AU)

The yacon root (Smallanthus sonchifolius), due to the rich concentration of fructo-oligosaccharides, is classified as prebiotic and has become promising for obesity due to increased satiety. The aim of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of a yacon-based product (PBY) in ovariectomized rats (OVX) in food consumption, in the modulation of anthropometric measurements and in the satiety immunosorbent glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in rats Wistar ovariectomized (OVX). Food consumption was analyzed by daily weighing of leftover diet, the percentage of body fat was determined by the Lee index, and weight, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were also evaluated. Cecum fragments were used for immunostaining GLP-1, from OVX rats, after being fed for 24 weeks with a standard diet with or without 6% FOS / inulin / PBY. There was a decrease in abdominal circumference (p = 0.2173) in 3.5%, there was also a decrease in BMI (p = 0.3822) in 6.25% and a percentage of body fat (p = 0.3528) 2.14% in animals that received PBY for 24 weeks (G4) compared to animals in the control group. In the G4 group GLP-1 increased (p <.0001), the animals increased their consumption (p = 0.0064) and paradoxically, they gained less weight gain (p <.0001), which may be associated with the fact that fibers decrease the efficiency of absorption of lipids along the small intestine, which can decrease the caloric assimilation of nutrients. This phenomenon demonstrates that PBY has the potential to modulate obesity, thus improving the quality of life of women in menopause. (AU)

Evaluation In Vitro of Toxicity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Leaves and Roots from Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius).

Yacon is an Andean plant that has been used in folk medicine for its medicinal properties. The beneficial effects of this plant are possibly due to the high content of phenolic compounds present in its leaves and roots. This study evaluated the in vitro toxicity of the hydroalcoholic extract of leaves and roots from yacon (1, 10, 50, and 100 µg/mL) through cell viability tests, genotoxic and mutagenic activity in leukocytes culture cells; and cytotoxicity and apoptosis cell death (1, 10, 50, 100, and 500 µg/mL) in cell line originally established from the primary mouse embryonic fibroblast cells that were cultured by the designated protocol, so-called 3T3 protocol "3-day transfer, inoculum 3 × 105 cells" (3T3 cell line). No mutagenic and cytotoxic activities were observed in leukocyte cultures. Cytotoxic activity was evidenced in the highest concentrations of yacon leaf extract (50 and 100 µg/mL), whereas all concentrations tested with yacon leaf extract there was induction for apoptosis in the 3T3 cells. Genotoxic potential was observed only at higher doses of leaf (50 and 100 µg/mL) and root (100 µg/mL) extract. These results suggest that yacon leaf at high concentrations may present toxic potential showing concentration-dependent behavior; however, in vivo studies should be performed to validate these results.

Effects of yacon flour associated with an energy restricted diet on intestinal permeability, fecal short chain fatty acids, oxidative stress and inflammation markers levels in adults with obesity or overweight: a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled clinical trial

ABSTRACT Objectives Yacon flour is rich in bioactive compounds (phenolic compounds and fructooligosaccharides (FOS)), and may therefore reduce the risk of diseases associated with excess body weight. However, its effect on fecal short chain fatty acids (SCFA), intestinal permeability, oxidative stress and inflammation markers has not been studied in adult humans with excess body weight. Thus, we evaluated the effect of the consumption of yacon flour on these variables. Materials and methods Twenty-six excess body weight (30.4 ± 2.4 kg/m2) adults (31.3 ± 8.5y) were randomized to one of two groups (yacon flour or control; n = 13) on a double blind clinical trial. Subjects received a breakfast drink containing or not yacon flour (25g) associated with an energy restricted diet, for six weeks. The flour chemical characterization, FOS and total phenolics contents were evaluated. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated in vitro and in vivo (plasma). Intestinal permeability, fecal SCFA, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers also were evaluated in vivo. Results Yacon flour was well tolerated. It presented an in vitro and in vivo antioxidant capacity, increased plasma total antioxidant capacity (ΔYAC: 49.16 (-4.20; 156.63)) and reduced protein carbonyl concentrations (ΔYAC: -0.98 (-1.54; -0.42)). A reduction in SCFAs was observed in both groups (Δacetic: -3.16 (-5.07; -0.95) vs. -1.05 (-2.65; 1.11); Δpropionic: -1.05 (-2.60;-0.38) vs. -0.41 (-2.08; 0.09); Δbutyric: -0.75 (-1.38; -0.04) vs. -0.28 (-0.98; 0.11), for YAC and CON, respectively). Other variables did not change. Conclusion The yacon flour increased the plasma antioxidant capacity, decreased oxidative stress and SCFAs in adults with obesity or overweight.

The amino acid and carbohydrate composition of the herb and roots of Smallanthus sonchifolius.

The free and protein-bound amino acid composition of the herb and roots of Smallanthus sonchifolius was analyzed by HPLC method. Fourteen free and fifteen protein-bound amino acids were determined in yacon herb, and three free and fourteen protein-bound amino acids in the roots. Among the free amino acids, proline (0.44 µg/mg) and aspartic acid (0.12 µg/mg) were dominant in the herb and proline (0.28 µg/mg) in the roots. Among the protein-bound amino acids, aspartic acid (18.58 µg/mg), glutamic acid (16.33 µg/mg) and proline (14.52 µg/mg) prevailed in the herb, and proline (3.14 μg/mg) in the roots. Fructose, sucrose and arabinose were identified in free form in the herb of S. sonchifolius applying gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The polysaccharide complex was obtained from yacon herb, its yield was 5.13 ± 0.09%. Fructose (3.11 µg/mg) was the only monosaccharide identified in the hydrolysate of the obtained complex.

Toxicogenetic evaluation of Smallanthus sonchifolius (yacon) as a herbal medicine.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Smallanthus sonchifolius (Poepp. & Endl.) H. Robinson, commonly known as yacon, is a medicinal plant belonging to the Asteraceae family used in traditional folk medicine. Its roots and leaves have been used by people suffering from diabetes or from various digestive or renal disorders. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed at evaluating the in vitro potential genotoxic effects of the aqueous extract of yacon in order to determine its safety and at characterizing its phytochemical composition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The aqueous extract of S. sonchifolius was prepared in a similar way to that commonly used in popular medicine as tea bags. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-MS/MS) were used to identify the main compounds. The MTT test was performed to determine the range of doses and the Cytochalasine B-blocked micronucleus (Cytome assay) was used to assess geneotoxicity. RESULTS: The chemical analysis of the aqueous extract revealed the presence of the sesquiterpene lactones (STLs) enhydrin and the dimer enhydrofolin, as the main compounds together with phenolic compounds. Increasing concentrations of the extract induced a cytotoxic effect on CHO-K1 and HepG2 cells. A statistically significant increase in the frequency of MNi, NBUDs and NPBs was observed in CHO-K1 cells, while in HepG2 cells a statistically significant frequency increase was observed with three of the four tested doses for MNi and only with the highest dose for NPBs and NBUs (genotoxic effect). CONCLUSION: Results demonstrated the inability of the metabolic system to counteract the genetic instability, allowing the safe consumption of the leaves as a 2% tea infusion in quantities of up to 250 mL/day.