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1.
Pak J Pharm Sci ; 37(1): 85-94, 2024 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38741404

ABSTRACT

This research aimed to develop the phenytoin-loaded bionanosuspension by utilising the novel biopolymer from Juglans regia andreduce the long-term treatment cost of epilepsy and increase the efficiency of therapy. A novel biopolymer with remarkable inbuilt properties was isolated and used in the development of a nano capsulated dispersed system. The diverse proportions of phenytoin and biopolymer with different ratios 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5 and 1:8 were taken for the planning of details PJNC1-PJNC5. The bionanosuspension was assessed for dispersibility, pH, % entrapment efficiency, stability study and in vitro drug discharge. The formulation PJNC2 with 1:3 drug biopolymer proportion showed significant outcomes for various assessments with t50% of 16.51 h and r2 estimation of 0.9884. PJNC2 showed 92.07%±2.5 drug delivery in 36h and was stable. The bionanosuspension was found to be stable and safe for the delivery of nanosized phenytoin utilising the biopolymer having a remarkable stabiliser cum retardant property.


Subject(s)
Phenytoin , Phenytoin/chemistry , Biopolymers/chemistry , Drug Compounding , Drug Stability , Juglans/chemistry , Anticonvulsants/chemistry , Anticonvulsants/administration & dosage , Drug Liberation , Particle Size , Drug Carriers/chemistry , Nanoparticles/chemistry
2.
Food Funct ; 15(10): 5566-5578, 2024 May 20.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38712886

ABSTRACT

Free radical damage and oxidative stress are thought to play a crucial role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Walnut peptides, especially walnut oligopeptides, have been shown to protect nerve cells from oxidative stress and inflammatory damage, as well as improve memory function. In this study, walnut peptides were obtained from walnut meal through enzymatic hydrolysis, ultrafiltration, and gel filtration chromatography. A novel oligopeptide called AQ was successfully isolated and its chemical structure was identified as AASCDQ using ESI-MS/MS. AQ demonstrated remarkable scavenging activity against O2- free radicals (81.00%), DPPH free radicals (79.40%), and ABTS free radicals (67.09%) at a concentration of 1 mg mL-1. Furthermore, AQ exhibited strong neuroprotective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced damage in SH-SY5Y cells, reducing cell injury and apoptosis. AQ also effectively inhibited the secretion of pro-inflammatory factors NO (IC50 = 46.03 ± 0.32 µM) and suppressed the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α in RAW264.7 cells stimulated by LPS. In vivo experiments demonstrated that AQ promoted angiogenesis in the quail chick chorioallantoic membrane assay and reduced ROS accumulation in Caenorhabditis elegans, thereby extending its lifespan. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of AQ was further confirmed by western blotting. In summary, the novel oligopeptide AQ possesses potential neuroprotective effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, angiogenic, and anti-aging properties, making it a promising candidate for the development of functional foods and pharmaceutical products.


Subject(s)
Caenorhabditis elegans , Juglans , Neuroprotective Agents , Oligopeptides , Animals , Juglans/chemistry , Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology , Neuroprotective Agents/chemistry , Mice , Caenorhabditis elegans/drug effects , RAW 264.7 Cells , Humans , Oligopeptides/pharmacology , Oligopeptides/chemistry , Oxidative Stress/drug effects , Apoptosis/drug effects , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/chemistry , Protein Hydrolysates/pharmacology , Protein Hydrolysates/chemistry , Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism , Nuts/chemistry , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Antioxidants/chemistry
3.
PLoS One ; 19(5): e0297024, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38748647

ABSTRACT

Despite the many articles about activated carbon with different precursors in adsorption process, no in-depth research has been carried out to understand the causes of the difference in surface adsorption characteristics of activated carbon with different precursors and different activation processes. In this work, the ability of two active carbon adsorbents made of walnut shell and peach kernel by two chemical and physical methods (totally 4 different types of activated carbon) in treatment of oily wastewater including diesel, gasoline, used oil or engine lubricant has been compared. The results show that the chemical activated peach carbon active with 97% hardness has provided the highest hardness and physical activated walnut carbon active has obtained the lowest hardness value (87%). It is also found that peach activated carbon has a higher iodine number than walnut activated carbon, and this amount can be increased using chemical methods; Therefore, the highest amount of Iodine Number is related to Peach activated carbon that is made by chemical method (1230 mg/g), and the lowest amount of iodine number is seen in walnut activated carbon that is made by physical method (1020 mg/g). moreover, the pore diameter of physical activated carbon is lower than chemical activated carbon in all cases. So that the pore diameter of chemical activated peach carbon active is equal to 22.08 µm and the measured pore diameter of physical activated peach carbon active is equal to 20.42 µm. These values for walnut are obtained as 22.74 µm and 21.86 µm, respectively. Furthermore, the temperature and pH effects on the adsorption of different synthesized oily wastewater was studied and it was found that a decrease in adsorption can be seen with an increase in temperature or decreasing the pH value, which can be referred to this fact that the process of adsorption is an exothermic process. Finally, to analyze the compatibility of adsorption isotherms with experimental data and to predict the adsorption process, three different isotherms named Langmuir, Temkin, and Freundlich isotherms were applied and their parameters were correlated. The correlation results show that the Langmuir isotherm had the best correlation in all cases compared to the Freundlich and Temkin isotherms, based on the correlation coefficient, and the calculated R2 values which was greater than 0.99 in all the studied cases.


Subject(s)
Charcoal , Juglans , Prunus persica , Thermodynamics , Wastewater , Juglans/chemistry , Charcoal/chemistry , Wastewater/chemistry , Prunus persica/chemistry , Adsorption , Water Purification/methods
4.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(9)2024 May 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38732208

ABSTRACT

The current study investigated the impact of cold stress on the morphological, physiological, and phytochemical properties of Juglans regia L. (J. regia) using in vitro microclone cultures. The study revealed significant stress-induced changes in the production of secondary antioxidant metabolites. According to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses, the stress conditions profoundly altered the metabolism of J. regia microclones. Although the overall spectrum of metabolites was reduced, the production of key secondary antioxidant metabolites significantly increased. Notably, there was a sevenfold (7×) increase in juglone concentration. These findings are crucial for advancing walnut metabolomics and enhancing our understanding of plant responses to abiotic stress factors. Additionally, study results aid in identifying the role of individual metabolites in these processes, which is essential for developing strategies to improve plant resilience and tolerance to adverse conditions.


Subject(s)
Antioxidants , Cold-Shock Response , Juglans , Phytochemicals , Juglans/metabolism , Juglans/chemistry , Phytochemicals/metabolism , Antioxidants/metabolism , Secondary Metabolism , Metabolomics/methods , Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry , Metabolome , Naphthoquinones
5.
Food Funct ; 15(10): 5209-5223, 2024 May 20.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38717256

ABSTRACT

Elevated blood glucose concentration is a risk factor for developing metabolic dysfunction and insulin resistance, leading to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Nuts have the potential to inhibit α-amylase activity, and so lower postprandial glucose, due to their content of polyphenols and other bioactive compounds. We conducted a systematic literature review to assess the ability of extracts from commonly consumed edible parts of nuts to inhibit α-amylase. Among the 31 included papers, only four utilised human α-amylases. These papers indicated that polyphenol-rich chestnut skin extracts exhibited strong inhibition of both human salivary and pancreatic α-amylases, and that a polyphenol-rich almond skin extract was a potent inhibitor of human salivary α-amylase. The majority of the reviewed studies utilised porcine pancreatic α-amylase, which has ∼86% sequence homology with the corresponding human enzyme but with some key amino acid variations located within the active site. Polyphenol-rich extracts from chestnut, almond, kola nut, pecan and walnut, and peptides isolated from cashew, inhibited porcine pancreatic α-amylase. Some studies used α-amylases sourced from fungi or bacteria, outcomes from which are entirely irrelevant to human health, as they have no sequence homology with the human enzyme. Given the limited research involving human α-amylases, and the differences in inhibition compared to porcine enzymes and especially enzymes from microorganisms, it is recommended that future in vitro experiments place greater emphasis on utilising enzymes sourced from humans to facilitate a reliable prediction of effects in intervention studies.


Subject(s)
Nuts , Plant Extracts , alpha-Amylases , Nuts/chemistry , Humans , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Plant Extracts/chemistry , Animals , alpha-Amylases/antagonists & inhibitors , alpha-Amylases/metabolism , Swine , Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology , Enzyme Inhibitors/chemistry , Polyphenols/pharmacology , Polyphenols/chemistry , Juglans/chemistry
6.
J Agric Food Chem ; 72(22): 12541-12554, 2024 Jun 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38785039

ABSTRACT

We investigated the protective effect of walnut peptides and YVPFPLP (YP-7) on scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice and ß-amyloid (Aß)-induced excitotoxic injury in primary hippocampal neurons, respectively. Additionally, the protective mechanism of YP-7 on neuronal excitotoxicity was explored. Mouse behavioral and hippocampal slice morphology experiments indicate that YP-7 improves the learning and memory abilities of cognitively impaired mice and protects synaptic integrity. Immunofluorescence, western blotting, and electrophysiological experiments on primary hippocampal neurons indicate that YP-7 inhibits neuronal damage caused by excessive excitation of neurons induced by Aß. HT-22 cell treatment with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) activators and inhibitors showed that YP-7 activates PPARγ expression and maintains normal neuronal function by forming stable complexes with PPARγ to inhibit the extracellular regulated protein kinase pathway. Therefore, YP-7 can ameliorate glutamate-induced excitotoxicity and maintain neuronal signaling. This provides a theoretical basis for active peptides to ameliorate excitotoxicity and the development of functional foods.


Subject(s)
Disease Models, Animal , Hippocampus , Juglans , Memory Disorders , Neurons , PPAR gamma , Peptides , Scopolamine , Animals , Scopolamine/adverse effects , Mice , Memory Disorders/drug therapy , Memory Disorders/chemically induced , Memory Disorders/metabolism , PPAR gamma/metabolism , PPAR gamma/genetics , Juglans/chemistry , Hippocampus/drug effects , Hippocampus/metabolism , Male , Peptides/chemistry , Peptides/pharmacology , Neurons/drug effects , Neurons/metabolism , Humans , Memory/drug effects , Plant Proteins/chemistry , Plant Proteins/pharmacology , Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism
7.
Molecules ; 29(9)2024 Apr 25.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38731467

ABSTRACT

Flavonoids are important secondary metabolites found in Juglans mandshurica Maxim., which is a precious reservoir of bioactive substances in China. To explore the antitumor actions of flavonoids (JMFs) from the waste branches of J. mandshurica, the following optimized purification parameters of JMFs by macroporous resins were first obtained. The loading concentration, flow rate, and loading volume of raw flavonoid extracts were 1.4 mg/mL, 2.4 BV/h, and 5 BV, respectively, and for desorption, 60% ethanol (4 BV) was selected to elute JMFs-loaded AB-8 resin at a flow rate of 2.4 BV/h. This adsorption behavior can be explained by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model. Subsequently, JMFs were identified using Fourier transform infrared combined with high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry, and a total of 156 flavonoids were identified. Furthermore, the inhibitory potential of JMFs on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HepG2 cells was demonstrated. The results also show that exposure to JMFs induced apoptotic cell death, which might be associated with extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. Additionally, flow cytometry detection found that JMFs exposure triggered S phase arrest and the generation of reactive oxygen species in HepG2 cells. These findings suggest that the JMFs purified in this study represent great potential for the treatment of liver cancer.


Subject(s)
Apoptosis , Cell Proliferation , Flavonoids , Juglans , Juglans/chemistry , Humans , Flavonoids/pharmacology , Flavonoids/chemistry , Flavonoids/isolation & purification , Cell Proliferation/drug effects , Hep G2 Cells , Apoptosis/drug effects , Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/pharmacology , Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/chemistry , Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic/isolation & purification , Plant Extracts/chemistry , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Cell Movement/drug effects , Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid , Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology , Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry
8.
PLoS One ; 19(4): e0287864, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38626166

ABSTRACT

The fourth most frequent type of cancer in women and the leading cause of mortality for females worldwide is cervical cancer. Traditionally, medicinal plants have been utilized to treat various illnesses and ailments. The molecular docking method is used in the current study to look into the phytoconstituents of Juglans regia's possible anticancer effects on cervical cancer target proteins. This work uses the microarray dataset analysis of GSE63678 from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus database to find differentially expressed genes. Furthermore, protein-protein interactions of differentially expressed genes were constructed using network biology techniques. The top five hub genes (IGF1, FGF2, ESR1, MYL9, and MYH11) are then determined by computing topological parameters with Cytohubba. In addition, molecular docking research was performed on Juglans regia phytocompounds that were extracted from the IMPPAT database versus hub genes that had been identified. Utilizing molecular dynamics, simulation confirmed that prioritized docked complexes with low binding energies were stable.


Subject(s)
Juglans , Uterine Cervical Neoplasms , Humans , Female , Molecular Docking Simulation , Juglans/genetics , Juglans/chemistry , Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/drug therapy , Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/genetics , Microarray Analysis , Computational Biology/methods
9.
Nutrients ; 16(8)2024 Apr 16.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38674873

ABSTRACT

The green walnut, which is frequently overlooked in favor of its more mature sibling, is becoming a topic of great significance because of its unique ecological role, culinary flexibility, and therapeutic richness. The investigation of the bioactive substances found in green walnuts and their possible effects on human health has therapeutic potential. Juglans regia L. is an important ecological component that affects soil health, biodiversity, and the overall ecological dynamic in habitats. Comprehending and recording these consequences are essential for environmental management and sustainable land-use strategies. Regarding cuisine, while black walnuts are frequently the main attraction, green walnuts have distinct tastes and textures that are used in a variety of dishes. Culinary innovation and the preservation of cultural food heritage depend on the understanding and exploration of these gastronomic characteristics. Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals are abundant in green walnuts, which have a comprehensive nutritional profile. Walnuts possess a wide range of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive-function-enhancing properties. Consuming green walnuts as part of one's diet helps with antioxidant defense, cardiovascular health, and general well-being. Juglans regia L., with its distinctive flavor and texture combination, is not only a delicious food but also supports sustainable nutrition practices. This review explores the nutritional and pharmacological properties of green walnuts, which can be further used for studies in various food and pharmaceutical applications.


Subject(s)
Antioxidants , Juglans , Nuts , Humans , Antioxidants/analysis , Fatty Acids, Omega-3/analysis , Juglans/chemistry , Nutritive Value , Nuts/chemistry , Ecology
10.
Food Funct ; 15(10): 5315-5328, 2024 May 20.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38605685

ABSTRACT

In this study, walnut protein was hydrolyzed, separated by ultrafiltration, purified by RP-HPLC, identified by LC-MS/MS, and screened by molecular docking to finally obtain three novel antioxidant peptides HGEPGQQQR (1189.584 Da), VAPFPEVFGK (1089.586 Da) and HNVADPQR (949.473 Da). These three peptides exhibited excellent cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) with EC50 values of 0.0120 mg mL-1, 0.0068 mg mL-1, and 0.0069 mg mL-1, respectively, which were superior to that of the positive control GSH (EC50: 0.0122 mg mL-1). In the ethanol injury model, three antioxidant peptides enhanced the survival of cells treated with ethanol from 47.36% to 62.69%, 57.06% and 71.64%, respectively. Molecular docking results showed that the three antioxidant peptides could effectively bind to Keap1, CYP2E1 and TLR4 proteins. These results suggested that walnut-derived antioxidant peptides could be potential antioxidants and hepatoprotective agents for application in functional foods.


Subject(s)
Antioxidants , Juglans , Molecular Docking Simulation , Peptides , Protein Hydrolysates , Juglans/chemistry , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Antioxidants/chemistry , Peptides/pharmacology , Peptides/chemistry , Protein Hydrolysates/pharmacology , Protein Hydrolysates/chemistry , Humans , Kelch-Like ECH-Associated Protein 1/metabolism , Plant Proteins/pharmacology , Plant Proteins/chemistry , Ethanol , Toll-Like Receptor 4/metabolism , Cytochrome P-450 CYP2E1/metabolism , Protective Agents/pharmacology , Protective Agents/chemistry , Nuts/chemistry , Tandem Mass Spectrometry
11.
Food Res Int ; 182: 114141, 2024 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38519173

ABSTRACT

Walnut kernels are prone to oxidation and rancidity due to their rich lipid composition, but the existing evaluation indicators are not sensitive enough to promote their industrial development. This study aims to investigate the potential markers in oxidative rancidity walnut kernels using lipidomics and volatolomics. The results showed that the antioxidant capacity of walnut kernels significantly decreased after oxidation, with the decreasing of total phenolic content from 36276.34 mg GAE/kg to 31281.53 mg GAE/kg, the DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging activity from 89.25% to 73.54%, and 61.69% to 43.73%, respectively. The activities of lipoxygenase (LOX) and lipase (LPS) increased by 6.08-fold and 0.33-fold, respectively. By combining volatolomics and chemometrics methods, it was found that significant differences existed in the content of hexanal, caproic acid, 1-pentanol, (E)-2-octenal, and 2-heptanenal before and after walnut kernel oxidation (VIP > 1). Based on the results of lipidomics, it can be concluded that the above five compounds can serve as characteristic markers for walnut kernel oxidative rancidity, mainly produced through glycerol phospholipid (GPL), glyceride, linoleic acid (LA), and α-linolenic acid (ALA) metabolism pathways. Possible mechanisms of lipid degradation in oxidized walnut kernels were also proposed, providing technical support for the storage, preservation, and high-value utilization of walnut kernels.


Subject(s)
Juglans , Juglans/chemistry , Lipidomics , Nuts/chemistry , Antioxidants/analysis , alpha-Linolenic Acid
12.
Food Chem ; 448: 139124, 2024 Aug 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38554586

ABSTRACT

In this study, we applied various thermal pretreatment methods (e.g., hot-air, microwave, and stir-frying) to process walnut kernels, and conducted comparative analysis of the physicochemical properties, nutritional components, in vitro antioxidant activity, and flavor substances of the extracted walnut oil (WO). The results indicated that, thermal pretreatment significantly increased the extraction of total trace nutrients (e.g., total phenols, tocopherols, and phytosterols) in WO. The WO produced using microwave had 2316.71 mg/kg of total trace nutrients, closely followed by the stir-frying method, which yielded an 11.22% increase compared to the untreated method. The WO obtained by the microwave method had a higher Oxidative inductance period (4.05 h) and oil yield (2.48%). After analyzing the flavor in WO, we found that aldehydes accounted for 28.77% of the 73 of volatile compounds and 58.12% of the total flavor compound content in microwave-pretreated WO, these percentages were higher than those recorded by using other methods. Based on the comprehensive score obtained by the PCA, microwave-pretreatment might be a promising strategy to improve the quality of WO based on aromatic characteristics.


Subject(s)
Flavoring Agents , Juglans , Oxidation-Reduction , Plant Oils , Taste , Volatile Organic Compounds , Juglans/chemistry , Volatile Organic Compounds/chemistry , Volatile Organic Compounds/analysis , Flavoring Agents/chemistry , Flavoring Agents/analysis , Plant Oils/chemistry , Antioxidants/analysis , Antioxidants/chemistry , Hot Temperature , Microwaves
13.
Food Chem ; 446: 138856, 2024 Jul 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38430765

ABSTRACT

In this study, we examined the effects of various sodium alginate (ALG) concentrations (0.2%-0.8%) on the functional and physicochemical characteristics of succinylated walnut glutenin (GLU-SA). The results showed that acylation decreased the particle size and zeta potential of walnut glutenin (GLU) by 122- and 0.27-fold, respectively. In addition, the protein structure unfolded, providing conditions for glycosylation. After GLU-SA was combined with ALG, the surface hydrophobicity decreased and the net negative charge and disulfide bond content increased. The protein structure was analyzed by FTIR, Endogenous fluorescence spectroscopy, and SEM, and ALG prompted GLU-SA cross-linking to form a stable three-dimensional network structure. The results indicated that dual modification improved the functional properties of the complex, especially its potential protein gel and emulsifying properties. This research provide theoretical support and a technical reference for expanding the application of GLU in the processing of protein and oil products.


Subject(s)
Juglans , Juglans/chemistry , Glycosylation , Glutens/chemistry , Nuts/chemistry
14.
Environ Sci Pollut Res Int ; 31(19): 27913-27934, 2024 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38523213

ABSTRACT

Today, new energy sources alternative to fossil fuels are needed to meet the increasing energy demand. It is becoming increasingly important to constitute new energy sources from waste biomass through the liquefaction process. In this study, walnut shells (WS) were liquefied catalytically and non-catalytically under different parameters using the liquefaction method. In this process, the effect of silica fume/nano zero-valent iron (SF/NZVI) catalysts on the conversion rates was investigated. The catalyst was synthesized by reducing NZVI using a liquid phase chemical reduction method on SF. The SF/NZVI catalyst was characterized by scanning electron microscopy- energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), transmission electron microscope (TEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The effect of various process parameters on the liquefaction process was investigated. In this context, the reaction temperature ranged from 300 to 400 °C, the solid/solvent ratio ranged from 1/1 to 1/3, the reaction time ranged from 30 to 90 min, and the catalyst concentration ranged from 1 to 6%. According to the results obtained, the most suitable operating conditions for non-catalytic experiments in liquefaction of WS were found to be temperature of 400 °C, reaction time of 60 min, and solid/solvent of 1/3. In catalytic conditions, the optimum values were obtained as temperature of 375 °C, reaction time of 60 min, solid/solvent ratio of 1/3, and catalyst concentration of 6%. The highest total conversion and (oil + gas) % conversion were 90.4% and 46.7% under non-catalytic conditions and 90.7% and 62.3% under catalytic conditions, respectively. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis revealed the bio-oil was mainly composed of aromatic compounds (benzene, butyl-, indane and their derivatives,) and polyaromatic compounds (naphthalene, decahydro-, cis-, naphthalene, 1-methyl-.). The aim of increasing the quantity and quality of the light liquid product in the study has been achieved.


Subject(s)
Iron , Plant Oils , Polyphenols , Catalysis , Iron/chemistry , Biofuels , X-Ray Diffraction , Silicon Dioxide/chemistry , Juglans/chemistry , Biomass
15.
J Food Sci ; 89(5): 2730-2746, 2024 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38534189

ABSTRACT

Walnuts undergo rigorous grading before being sold to customers. There are multiple parameters used for the grading, including skin lightness. Walnuts with light skin receive superior grades while walnuts with dark skin are given poor grades or even rejected. However, information on the quality and physicochemical properties of walnuts with varying skin lightness levels is minimal. Therefore, we studied the quality of kernels of varying skin lightness from three common cultivars grown in California, USA (Chandler, Howard, and Tulare). The samples were subjected to size and weight, fat content, free fatty acid, peroxide value, oxidative stability, volatiles, tocopherols, fatty acid profile, and phenol measurements. The dark kernels had significantly lower weight and fat content, higher oxidative stability, and more volatiles than their light counterparts. The dark kernels had higher concentrations of some phenolics but low procyanidin B1 and non-existent epicatechin gallate, compared to the light kernels, indicating that these two phenolics were likely involved in an antioxidant mechanism. Oxidation and depletion of epicatechin gallate likely contributed to the darkening of walnut color.


Subject(s)
Antioxidants , Juglans , Nuts , Phenols , Juglans/chemistry , Phenols/analysis , Nuts/chemistry , Antioxidants/analysis , Color , Tocopherols/analysis , Oxidation-Reduction , Fatty Acids/analysis , Seeds/chemistry , Volatile Organic Compounds/analysis , Catechin/analysis , Fatty Acids, Nonesterified/analysis
16.
Int J Biol Macromol ; 266(Pt 2): 131152, 2024 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38556230

ABSTRACT

This study aims to seek angiotensin-I-converting enzyme inhibitory (ACEi) peptides from walnut using different enzymatic hydrolysis, and further to validate the potent ACEi peptides identified and screened via peptidomics and in silico analysis against hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Results showed that walnut protein hydrolysate (WPH) prepared by combination of alcalase and simulated gastrointestinal digestion exhibited high ACEi activity. WPH was separated via Sephadex-G25, and four peptides were identified, screened and verified based on their PeptideRanker score, structural characteristic and ACE inhibition. Interestingly, FDWLR showed the highest ACEi activity with IC50 value of 8.02 µg/mL, which might be related to its close affinity with ACE observed in molecular docking. Subsequently, high absorption and non-toxicity of FDWLR was predicted via in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity. Furthermore, FDWLR exhibited positively vasoregulation in Ang II-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and great blood pressure lowering effect in SHRs.


Subject(s)
Angiotensin II , Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors , Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells , Hypertension , Juglans , Molecular Docking Simulation , Protein Hydrolysates , Rats, Inbred SHR , Juglans/chemistry , Animals , Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology , Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/chemistry , Humans , Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells/drug effects , Protein Hydrolysates/pharmacology , Protein Hydrolysates/chemistry , Rats , Hypertension/drug therapy , Hypertension/metabolism , Angiotensin II/metabolism , Peptides/chemistry , Peptides/pharmacology , Male , Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism , Antihypertensive Agents/pharmacology , Antihypertensive Agents/chemistry , Blood Pressure/drug effects , Plant Proteins/pharmacology , Plant Proteins/chemistry
17.
Food Chem ; 445: 138646, 2024 Jul 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38382250

ABSTRACT

The impact of the simulated gastrointestinal digestion process on walnut protein and the potential anti-inflammatory properties of its metabolites was studied. Structural changes induced by digestion, notably in α-Helix, ß-Turn, and Random Coil configurations, were unveiled. Proteins over 10,000 Da significantly decreased by 35.6 %. Antioxidant activity in these metabolites paralleled increased amino acid content. Molecular docking identified three walnut polypeptides-IPAGTPVYLINR, FQGQLPR, and VVYVLR-with potent anti-inflammatory properties. RMSD and RMSF analysis demonstrated the stable and flexible interaction of these polypeptides with their target proteins. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in normal human colon mucosal epithelial NCM460 cells, these peptides decreased 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, while mitigating cell apoptosis and inflammation. Our study offers valuable insights into walnut protein physiology, shedding light on its potential health benefits.


Subject(s)
Juglans , Humans , Juglans/chemistry , Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A , Molecular Docking Simulation , Peptides/chemistry , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/chemistry , Inflammation/drug therapy , Digestion
18.
Food Funct ; 15(4): 2115-2130, 2024 Feb 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38305469

ABSTRACT

Akt acts as a central protein influencing multiple pathologies in neurodegenerative diseases including AD and PD, and using Akt activators is a promising management strategy. The current study characterized the effects of an Akt-activating peptide (Glu-Pro-Glu-Val-Leu-Pro, EPEVLR) obtained from walnut protein degradation on D-gal-induced memory impairment in mice. EPEVLR was obtained by hydrolysis of walnut proteins, identification of peptide sequences, and screening for molecular docking sequentially. The MWM test in mice indicated that the oral administration of EPEVLR (80, 200 and 400 mg per kg per day) significantly (p < 0.05) reversed D-gal-induced memory impairment. WB tests of the mouse hippocampus confirmed that EPEVLR could activate Akt by promoting its phosphorylation. In addition, further characterization (including TEM, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry) related to Akt phosphorylation showed lower Aß and p-tau levels, as well as more autophagosomes than those in the model group. Moreover, the EPEVLR treatment significantly increased Lactobacillus abundance and reduced Helicobacter abundance in the gut microbiome and caused up-regulation of SCFAs and down-regulation of LPS of serum metabolites. Therefore, EPEVLR ingestion reversed cognitive impairment symptoms, possibly related to the activation of Akt and regulation of the intestinal flora pathway. Consumption of an EPEVLR-containing diet is beneficial for treating cognitive dysfunction.


Subject(s)
Alzheimer Disease , Cognitive Dysfunction , Juglans , Mice , Animals , Alzheimer Disease/metabolism , Juglans/chemistry , Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism , Proteolysis , Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/genetics , Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/metabolism , Molecular Docking Simulation , Cognitive Dysfunction/drug therapy , Cognitive Dysfunction/prevention & control , Cognitive Dysfunction/metabolism , Hippocampus/metabolism , Disease Models, Animal
19.
Molecules ; 29(4)2024 Feb 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38398557

ABSTRACT

Walnut processing generates considerable quantities of by-products that could be reprocessed into value-added products that have food and non-food applications. In this context, the aim of this study is to characterize the 'Sorrento' and 'Tulare' walnut cultivars using the UPOV guidelines and analyze the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of their shells. Insight into the chemical composition of the different granulometric fractions of walnut shell, obtained by sieving, was obtained following ultrasound-assisted extraction by Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). The total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin content and antiradical capacity, obtained by DPPH and ABTS assays, and the Fe(III) reducing power of the extracts were also evaluated. The UHPLC-HRMS analysis indicated the presence of thirty-two compounds ascribable to four major classes of specialized metabolites. Furthermore, the extraction efficiency of gallic acid, ellagic acid derivatives, as well as glansreginin A, increased with the decrease in shell matrix particle size in contrast to chlorogenic acids and flavonoid glycosides. This is the first study to highlight new knowledge on the chemical composition of walnut shells. The results obtained demonstrate the feasibility of recovering valuable bioactive components from agro-waste that may be further valorized.


Subject(s)
Juglans , Juglans/chemistry , Ferric Compounds , Plant Extracts/chemistry , Flavonoids , Antioxidants/chemistry , Phytochemicals
20.
Molecules ; 29(2)2024 Jan 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38276576

ABSTRACT

A current alternative for sustainable development through green chemistry is the replacement of synthetic compounds with natural ones through the superior capitalization of natural resources, with numerous applications in different fields. The benefits of walnuts (Juglans regia L.) and elderberries (Sambucus nigra L.) have been known since ancient times, due to the presence of phytochemicals such as flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids, alkaloids, nitrogen-containing compounds, tannins, steroids, anthocyanins, etc. These active compounds have multiple biological activities for human health, including benefits that are antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antihypertensive, neuroprotective, etc. Like other medicinal plants, the walnut and the elderberry possess important phytosanitary properties (antibacterial, antifungal, and insecticidal) and their extracts can also be used as environmentally safe biopesticides, with the result that they constitute a viable and cheap alternative to environmentally harmful synthetic products. During recent years, walnut by-products and elderberries have attracted the attention of researchers, and investigations have focused on the species' valuable constituents and active properties. Comparing the information from the literature regarding the phytochemical profile and biological activities, it is highlighted that, apart from the predominant specific compounds, the walnut and the elderberry have common bioactive compounds, which come from six classes (phenols and derivatives, flavonoids, hydroxycinnamic acids, tannins, triterpenoids, and phytosteroids), and act on the same microorganisms. From this perspective, the aim of this review is to provide an overview of the bioactive compounds present in the different constitutive parts of walnut by-products and elderberries, which present a specific or common activity related to human health and the protection of agricultural crops in the context of sustainable development.


Subject(s)
Juglans , Sambucus , Humans , Juglans/chemistry , Sambucus/chemistry , Anthocyanins , Tannins , Flavonoids/chemistry , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Antioxidants/chemistry , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Plant Extracts/chemistry , Anti-Bacterial Agents
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