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The singlet fission process involves the conversion of one singlet excited state into two triplet states, which has significant potential for enhancing the energy utilization efficiency of solar cells. Carotenoid, a typical π conjugated chromophore, exhibits specific aggregate morphologies known to display singlet fission behavior. In this study, we investigate the singlet fission process in lycopene H-aggregates using femtosecond stimulated Raman spectroscopy aided by quantum chemical calculation. The experimental results reveal two reaction pathways that effectively relax the S2 (11Bu+) state populations in lycopene H-aggregates: a monomer-like singlet excited state relaxation pathway through S2 (11Bu+) → 11Bu− → S1 (21Ag−) and a dominant sequential singlet fission reaction pathway involving the S2 (11Bu+) state, followed by S* state, a triplet pair state [1(TT)], eventually leading to a long lifetime triplet state T1. Importantly, the presence of both anionic and cationic fingerprint Raman peaks in the S* state is indicative of a substantial charge-transfer character. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Engineering plant-based microgel particles (MPs) at a molecular scale is meaningful to prepare functional fat analogues. We hypothesize that oat protein isolate (OPI) and κ-carrageenan (CA) have synergy in MPs formation, using MPs with controllable structure, and further to fabricate fat analogues with adjustable characteristics is feasible. Their digestion fate will also be possibly modulated by interfacial coatings. OPI-based conjugated MPs with tunable rigidities by changing crosslinking densities were designed. The relationship between microgel structures, and emulsion gel properties was explored through spectroscopy, microstructure, rheology and tribology. The delivery to lycopene, as well as inhibiting digestion behaviors of fat analogues was evaluated in a simulated gastro-intestinal tract. The rigidity of conjugated MPs could be tailored to optimize the performance of fat analogues. OPI-1 %CA MPs could stabilize emulsions up to 95 % oil fraction with fine texture. Tribological behaviors had a dependence on microgel elasticity and interfacial coatings, medium hard MP-stabilized emulsion was less disrupted without coalescence after oral processing. Digestion was delayed by denser and harder MPs by softening the interfacial particle layer or limiting lipase accessibility. Softer conjugated MPs possessed better flexibility and were broken down more easily leading to a higher rate of lipid digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the changes in the storage quality of amylose‐lycopene complexes (ALCs), the color, antioxidant activity, lycopene content, and configuration changes of ALCs during different storage periods were analyzed. A shelf life prediction model was established to reveal the stability changes of the complexes. The results showed that the cis‐isomer percentage of lycopene in ALCs increased significantly from 11.82% to 13.76%. The lycopene isomers were in the order of 5‐Z > All‐E > 9‐Z > 13‐Z. Correlation analysis indicated that the content of lycopene was a key factor affecting the quality of ALCs. ALCs followed zero‐order and first‐order degradation kinetics at 5°C–25°C and 35°C–45°C, respectively. The degradation degree of lycopene was negatively correlated with temperature, with half‐lives and one‐tenth decay periods of 32.37 days and 6.48 days (5°C) significantly higher than 10.78 days and 1.63 days (45°C). The activation energy required for the reaction of ALCs was as high as 106.29 kJ/mol, indicating greater stability. On this basis, an ALCs shelf life prediction model was established, with a relative error of 0.06%–5.03% between the predicted and actual values. The results indicated that ALCs had good color, antioxidant activity, lycopene content, and configuration stability, and that higher temperatures had a greater impact on lycopene. The study provides theoretical reference for the quality safety of ALCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cherry tomatoes are nutritious food, often processed into long shelf-life preserved foods. However, there is increasing concern about the dangers of high sucrose in traditional preserved fruit. In this paper, the effect of enzyme-assisted osmosis of seven kinds of functional sugars, including psicose, tagatose, isomaltose, trehalose, galactooligosaccharides, isomaltooligosaccharides, and resistant dextrin on cherry tomato was studied. The dry matter content after enzyme treatment and sugar soaking treatment was evaluated. Sensory quality, physicochemical quality, antioxidant capacity, sugar composition, and flavor substances were also measured. The addition of enzymes and functional sugars made cherry tomatoes redder and softer, and increased the soluble solid content (1.45- to 1.67-fold), lycopene content (2.14- to 2.18-fold), total polyphenol content (1.28- to 1.41-fold), and DPPH radical scavenging rate (1.81- to 1.95-fold). Furthermore, the sugar composition and flavor substances were improved. Thus, it is a good choice of adding these functional sugars to produce cherry tomato products with probiotic potential, and this new method can provide a reference for the processing of other fruit products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the association between dietary intake of tomatoes and lycopene with all-cause and cancer mortality among US adults with diabetes. We hypothesized that a higher intake of tomato and lycopene is related to a reduced risk of all-cause and cancer mortality among adults with diabetes. This prospective study was conducted among 9213 US adults with diabetes using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2016. Data on dietary intake of tomatoes and lycopene were obtained from two 24-h dietary recalls. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models determined the associations between tomato/lycopene intake and mortality. A higher intake of tomatoes and lycopene was significantly associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality (tomato: Q5 vs. Q1: HR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.54–0.86, p = 0.001, p for trend = 0.001; lycopene: Q5 vs. Q1: HR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.64–0.95, p = 0.013, p for trend = 0.006) after adjusting for all covariates. Compared with the lowest quintile of tomato and lycopene intake, the highest quintile was associated with a lower risk of cancer mortality (tomato: HR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.35–0.96, p = 0.035; lycopene: HR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.40–0.98, p = 0.043). Our study demonstrated that dietary intake of tomatoes and lycopene was significantly associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality in US adults with diabetes. High consumption of tomatoes and lycopene was also related to reduced cancer mortality in US adults with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Giardia duodenalis is a protozoan parasite that infects approximately one billion people worldwide. In this study, the effects of lycopene on experimental giardiasis in mice were investigated by evaluating cyst shedding rate, weight changes, duodenal antioxidant status, and histopathological alteration. Ninety‐five male mice aged four to six weeks were divided into six groups of 15 and one group of 5 as the negative control. All mice were infected with 2 × 105 Giardia duodenalis (B genotype) cysts except for the negative control. The treatment groups were treated with metronidazole, mixed lycopene‐metronidazole, and 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg lycopene for 7 days. The mice treated with lycopene 20 and mixed lycopene‐metronidazole had no cyst shedding from the 7th day of treatment. The mildest lesions were observed in the mixed lycopene‐metronidazole group. Results showed that treatment with mixed lycopene‐metronidazole significantly increased TAC and decreased MDA levels as compared with the positive control. It seems that the antigiardial effect of lycopene is related to its antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, direct effect of lycopene on Giardia and its probable mechanism remain to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Certain carotene components, such as lycopene and beta‐carotene, are found in tomatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes, etc. and are good for human health. It gives plants their distinctive red color. A class of lipid‐soluble natural pigments known as carotenoids is the precursor of vitamin A and is vital for antioxidant defense against peroxides in cells and tissues. This review provides an overview of the current state of knowledge and research on the sources, structures, physiochemical properties, absorption and metabolism, functional advantages, and prevention of many diseases associated with lycopene and beta‐carotene. These antioxidants have been linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and they also help draw pollinators to flowers. Carrots and sweet potatoes are also rich sources of beta‐carotene, which strengthens the immune system and improves eye health. The vivid color of many plants reproductive organs, including flowers and fruits, is caused by carotenoid, a secondary metabolite that is produced in plastids. The distinctive red color and many other health advantages are attributed to lycopene. When ingested through food or supplements, lycopene and beta‐carotene help manage and prevent a number of diseases, including cancer, metabolic, inflammatory, cardiovascular, hepatic, ophthalmic, skeletal, and infertility disorders. The main point is that toxicity is uncommon, and these carotenoids are generally accepted to be safe at different doses. Including these nutrients in your diet can improve your general health and provide illness prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haloarchaeal cultures were isolated from solar salterns of Goa and Tamil Nadu and designated as BS2, BBK2 and E3. These isolates grew with a characteristic bright orange to pink pigmentation and were capable of growing in media containing upto 25% (w/vol) NaCl. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of the three haloarchaeal strains BS2, BBK2 and E3 indicated an assembled genomic size of 4.1 Mb, 3.8 Mb and 4 Mb with G + C content of 61.8, 65.6 and 59.8% respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that the archaeal isolates belong to Haloarcula, Haloferax and Halogeometricum genera. Haloarcula rubripromontorii BS2 was predicted to have 4292 genes with 4242 CDS regions, 46 tRNAs, 6 rRNAs and 3 misc_RNAs. In case of Haloferaxlucentense BBK2, 3840 genes with 3780 CDS regions were detected along with 52 tRNAs, 5 rRNAs and 3 misc_RNAs. Halogeometricumborinquense E3 contained 4101 genes, 4043 CDS regions, 52 tRNAs, 4 rRNAs, and 2 misc_RNAs. The functional annotation and curation of the haloarchaeal genome, revealed C50 carotenoid biosynthetic genes like phytoene desaturase/carotenoid 3′ -4′ desaturase (crtI), lycopene elongase (ubiA/lyeJ) and carotenoid biosynthesis membrane protein (cruF) in the three isolates. Whereas crtD (C-3′,4′ desaturase), crtY (lycopene cyclase) and brp/blh (β-carotene dioxygenase) genes were identified only in BS2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the recycling of composites from plant tissues is difficult, extraction of bioactive compounds from plant sources requires pre‐treatment by new technology such as pulsed electric fields (PEF). Due to the reduced consumption of organic solvents, the extractive techniques such as using supercritical CO2 (SC‐CO2) are of interest to researchers. This work aimed to investigating the influences of different parameters of SC‐CO2 (pressure, modifier volume, temperature, and dynamic time) and PEF (frequency and field strength) treatments on the amount extraction of β‐carotene, lycopene, lutein, β‐cryptoxanthin, total phenol content (TPC), and also antioxidant activity percentage of tomato to obtain the optimum circumstances extraction via PEF and SC‐CO2 methods. PEF data showed that treatments with moderate intensity (1 Hz and 0. 25 kV/cm) enhanced the extractability of lycopene (88%), β‐carotene (69%), and β‐cryptoxanthin (24%). The maximum recovery in total polyphenols was achieved at a 1 Hz and 1.75 kV/cm, leading to a 41.68% growth. The SC‐CO2 results showed that extraction at 55°C and 35 MPa, and in a short time of 20 min (without any modifier: methanol) resulted in the highest levels of carotenoids (100% recovery), especially lycopene, and antioxidant activity. Largest value of total polyphenols was obtained at 35 MPa, 35°C, during 30 min, and 250 μL methanol as a modifier (58.79% recovery). Results showed that the extraction of polyphenols, unlike carotenoids, required a modifier. Organic solvents, often called modifiers, are sometimes added to the supercritical fluid to increase the polarity range of the extraction process and to help overcome analyte retention in the matrix. In this study, methanol was used as a modifier in different volumes. Therefore, the SC‐CO2 gentle processing conditions, compared with PEF, improved the recovery of tomato bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to optimize such treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of biological pesticides as alternatives to chemical phytosanitary products is a natural and innovative method to improve environmental protection and sustainable agricultural production. In this work, the compatibility between Trichoderma spp. and a commercial lignin extract was assessed in vitro and in vivo. The beneficial effects of lignin in combination with different Trichoderma consortia were evaluated in terms of improved growth and quantitative and qualitative tomato productivity. T. virens GV41 + T. asperellum + T. atroviride + lignin formulation was the most effective in growth promotion and increased root and stem dry weight compared to control (45.4 and 43.9%, respectively). This combination determined a 63% increase in tomato yield compared to the control, resulting in the best-performing treatment compared to each individual constituent. Consistent differences in terms of lycopene, GABA, ornithine, total, essential, and branched-chain amino acids were revealed in fruits from tomato plants treated with Trichoderma–lignin formulations (T. asperellum + T. virens GV41 + lignin) or with the microbial consortia (T. asperellum + T. virens GV41, T. atroviride + T. virens GV41). The developed bioformulations represent a sustainable biological strategy to increase yield and produce nutritional compound-enriched vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halorhodospira (Hlr.) halochloris is a triply extremophilic phototrophic purple sulfur bacterium, as it is thermophilic, alkaliphilic, and extremely halophilic. The light‐harvesting‐reaction center (LH1–RC) core complex of this bacterium displays an LH1‐Qy transition at 1,016 nm, which is the lowest‐energy wavelength absorption among all known phototrophs. Here we report the cryo‐EM structure of the LH1–RC at 2.42 Å resolution. The LH1 complex forms a tricyclic ring structure composed of 16 αβγ‐polypeptides and one αβ‐heterodimer around the RC. From the cryo‐EM density map, two previously unrecognized integral membrane proteins, referred to as protein G and protein Q, were identified. Both of these proteins are single transmembrane‐spanning helices located between the LH1 ring and the RC L‐subunit and are absent from the LH1–RC complexes of all other purple bacteria of which the structures have been determined so far. Besides bacteriochlorophyll b molecules (B1020) located on the periplasmic side of the Hlr. halochloris membrane, there are also two arrays of bacteriochlorophyll b molecules (B800 and B820) located on the cytoplasmic side. Only a single copy of a carotenoid (lycopene) was resolved in the Hlr. halochloris LH1–α3β3 and this was positioned within the complex. The potential quinone channel should be the space between the LH1–α3β3 that accommodates the single lycopene but does not contain a γ‐polypeptide, B800 and B820. Our results provide a structural explanation for the unusual Qy red shift and carotenoid absorption in the Hlr. halochloris spectrum and reveal new insights into photosynthetic mechanisms employed by a species that thrives under the harshest conditions of any phototrophic microorganism known. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids are tetraterpene compounds acting as precursors to vitamin A, with functions that include protecting eyesight, enhancing immunity, promoting cell growth and differentiation, and providing antioxidative benefits. Lycopene, β-carotene, and astaxanthin are particularly critical for health and have diverse applications in food, health products, and medicine. However, natural carotenoids are encased within cell structures, necessitating mechanical methods to disrupt the cell wall for their extraction and purification—a process often influenced by environmental conditions. Thus, improving the efficiency of carotenoid extraction from natural resources is of great interest. This review delves into the research progress made on the extraction processes, structures, and biological functions of carotenoids, focusing on lycopene, β-carotene, and astaxanthin. Traditional extraction methods primarily involve organic solvent-assisted mechanical crushing. With deeper research and technological advancements, more environmentally friendly solvents, advanced machinery, and suitable methods are being employed to enhance the extraction and purification of carotenoids. These improvements have significantly increased extraction efficiency, reduced preparation time, and lowered production costs, laying the groundwork for new carotenoid product developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study targets explicitly finding an alternative to petroleum‐based plastic films that burden the environment, which is a high priority. Hence, polymeric films were prepared with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) (4%), pectin (2%), and polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) (0.5%) with different concentrations of thymol (0.3%, 0.9%, 1.8%, 3%, and 5%) and glycerol as a plasticizer by solution casting technique. The prepared films were tested for mechanical, optical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Film F5 (CMC + P + PHB + 0.9%thymol) showed an excellent tensile strength of 15 MPa, Young's modulus of 395 MPa, antioxidant activity (AA) (92%), rapid soil biodegradation (21 days), and strong antimicrobial activity against bacterial and fungal cultures such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus flavus. The thymol content increase in films F6 (1.8%), F7 (3%), and F8 (5%) displayed a decrease in mechanical properties due to thymol's hydrophobicity. For shelf life studies on tomatoes, F2, a film without thymol (poor antimicrobial and antioxidant activities), F5 (film with superior mechanical, optical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties), and F7 (film with low mechanical properties) were selected. Film F5 coatings on tomato fruit enhanced the shelf life of up to 15 days by preventing weight loss, preserving firmness, and delaying changes in biochemical constituents like lycopene, phenols, and AA. Based on the mechanical, optical, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and shelf life results, the film F5 is suitable for active food packaging and preservation. Practical Application: The developed active biodegradable composite can be utilized as a coating to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. These coatings are easy to produce and apply, offering a sustainable solution to reduce food waste. On an industrial scale, they can be applied to food products, ensuring longer freshness without any technical challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study investigated the impact of heating temperatures (70 °C to 90 °C for up to 14 h) on lycopene and β‐carotene degradation kinetics in gac aril paste. Carotenoids extracted via low‐volume hexane‐assisted ultrasonic extraction revealed a first‐order degradation pattern with high correlation coefficients (0.96–0.97). Lycopene degraded faster at 90 °C (k = 12.05 × 102 h−1) than at 70 °C (5.41 × 102 h−1), while β‐carotene displayed relatively slower degradation. Corresponding half‐life (t1/2) values for lycopene ranged from 5.75 to 12.81 h, while β‐carotene displayed values of 9.48–20.2 h. β‐carotene showed superior thermal stability compared to lycopene across all temperatures. Additionally, colour changes indicated decreased brightness with increasing temperature. The DPPH radical scavenging activity and FRAP values decreased during gac fruit heating. Overall, this study emphasises temperature‐induced declines in lycopene and β‐carotene levels in gac aril paste and offers insights into their degradation kinetics under thermal processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A balanced and healthy diet during the menopausal transition and after menopause is crucial for women to reduce the risk for morbidities and chronic diseases due to deficiency of essential nutrients. Purpose: The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of studies that analyzed the impact of vitamin and nutrient deficiencies in postmenopausal women in relation to increased morbidities and chronic conditions. Methods: Observational studies were searched in the databases PubMed, UpToDate, and Google Scholar. Results: We searched 122 studies, of which 90 were included in our analysis. The meta-analysis of the data could not be performed because of the heterogeneity of the statistical methods in the included studies. In our study, we focused on the aspects of vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, omega-3-fatty acids, and lycopene, belonging to the family of carotenoids. Postmenopausal women with deficiencies of these nutrients are more vulnerable to comorbidities such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, metabolic diseases, osteoporosis, obesity, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, depression, cognitive decline, dementia, and stroke. We concluded that women after menopause tend to have a greater probability of suffering from deficiencies in various vitamins and nutrients, and consequently have an increased risk of developing morbidities and chronic diseases. Conclusion: In conclusion, maintaining optimum serum levels of nutrients and vitamins, either through a balanced and healthy diet consuming fresh fruits, vegetables, and fats or by taking appropriate supplementation, is essential in maintaining optimal health-related quality of life and reducing the risk for women during the menopausal transition and after menopause. Nevertheless, more recent studies need to be assessed to formulate adequate recommendations to achieve positive clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato peel by-products contain high levels of lycopene, which has traditionally been extracted using organic solvents. This research focuses on the optimisation of a sustainable method to obtain a lycopene-rich extract using the biodegradable anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS). A Plackett–Burman experimental design was used to investigate the effect of seven factors on the extraction of carotenoids from tomato peels using sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS volume and concentration, homogenisation intensity and time, sonication phase, extraction time and ultracentrifugation intensity). Based on the responses of total carotenoid extraction, the SDS volume, the use of ultrasound and the extraction time significantly influenced the extraction yield and were selected for optimisation using a Box–Wilson experimental design. The final green extraction protocol (1 g sample + 11.9 ml SDS 0.3%, homogenisation at 13,500 rpm for 2 min, ultrasound phase, agitation for 8.2 h and ultracentrifugation) was selected after quantification of total carotenoids by UV–VIS and HPLC-DAD. Finally, we used nuclear magnetic resonance to demonstrate a high lycopene purity in the carotenoid extract obtained. Furthermore, using transmission electron microscopy, we observed the presence of intact chromoplasts in the extract, protecting the carotenoids from the exposure to external agents. Thus, this work reports an optimised method for the sustainable extraction of carotenoids and demonstrates the viability of the degradable solvent SDS for the extraction of liposoluble bioactive compounds, like carotenoids and mainly lycopene. The lycopene extract could be used for the technological and nutritional enrichment of new foods and/or the design of nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids are important natural pigments that are responsible for the fruit and flower colors of many plants. The composition and content of carotenoid can greatly influence the color phenotype of plants. However, the regulatory mechanism underling the divergent behaviors of carotenoid accumulation, especially in flower, remains unclear. In this study, a new cultivar Osmanthus fragrans 'Yanzhi Hong' was used to study the regulation of carotenoid pigmentation in flower. Liquid chromatograph–mass spectrometer (LC-MS) analysis showed that β-carotene, phytoene, lycopene, γ-carotene, and lutein were the top five pigments enriched in the petals of 'Yanzhi Hong'. Through transcriptome analysis, we found that the expression of the structural genes in carotenoid pathway was imbalanced: most of the structural genes responsible for lycopene biosynthesis were highly expressed throughout the flower developmental stages, while those for lycopene metabolism kept at a relatively lower level. The downregulation of LYCE, especially at the late developmental stages, suppressed the conversion from lycopene to α-carotene but promoted the accumulation of β-carotene, which had great effect on the carotenoid composition of 'Yanzhi Hong'. Ethylene response factor (ERF), WRKY, basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH), v-myb avian myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog (MYB), N-Acetylcysteine (NAC), auxin response factor (ARF), and other transcription factors (TFs) have participated in the flower color regulation of 'Yanzhi Hong', which formed co-expression networks with the structural genes and functioned in multiple links of the carotenoid pathway. The results suggested that the cyclization of lycopene is a key link in determining flower color. The modification of the related TFs will break the expression balance between the upstream and downstream genes and greatly influence the carotenoid profile in flowers, which can be further used for creating colorful plant germplasms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruits and vegetables are key to a healthy diet, with tomatoes being among the most widely consumed. However, their nutritional quality and safety are not always regulated. This research focused on two aspects: the relationship between the visual appearance and texture of tomatoes and their nutritional value, and the health and safety concerns based on their elemental content. Eight samples, both local and imported, were collected in Erbil, Iraq. Physicochemical variables, including dry matter content, total soluble solids (TSS), total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity, ascorbic acid, and lycopene levels, were measured. Additionally, elemental analysis using ICP-OES was conducted to assess beneficial and toxic elements. The study found positive correlations between taste index, lycopene, and TSS. Antioxidant activity was mainly influenced by ascorbic acid. High-quality tomatoes had a firm texture, deep red color, and small size. However, local samples contained higher levels of essential elements, but also higher cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) levels, posing potential health risks. One imported sample contained arsenic (As), and two local samples showed carcinogenic risks from Cd. Therefore, stricter monitoring of tomato safety is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Watermelon suffers substantial post-harvest losses owing to strict quality standards, resulting in 20–30% of the crop being left unharvested. This study investigated the potential of valorizing dried watermelon pomace (DWP), a byproduct of watermelon juice extraction, focusing on its lycopene content—a potent antioxidant. This study assessed lycopene stability in DWP from four watermelon cultivars (Perla Nera®, Gavina®, Crimson Sweet, and Asahi Miyako) under different storage conditions (vial-sealed and vacuum-sealed). The lycopene content in freshly prepared DWP samples ranged from 0.734 to 1.572 mg/g db. The results indicated that vacuum-sealed samples exhibited significantly slower lycopene degradation than vial-sealed samples, highlighting the impact of air exposure on lycopene stability. After 90 days of storage, lycopene content in vacuum-sealed samples ranged from 0.214 to 1.234 mg/g db, while that in vial-sealed samples ranged from 0.013 to 0.731 mg/g db. Furthermore, this study assessed the effect of pretreatments with ascorbic acid (pretreatment A) and a mixture of ascorbic and citric acids (pretreatment B) on lycopene stability. Pretreatment B showed superior effectiveness, yielding higher lycopene levels than pretreatment A (p < 0.05). The stabilizing effects of ascorbic acid and citric acid were attributed to their antioxidant properties and their roles as pH regulators and chelators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water-saving irrigation is of extraordinary importance for tomato production in semi-arid areas of northwest China. For this purpose, we conducted a two-season trial in a solar greenhouse of two tomato genotypes named '181' and 'Mao Fen 802' and cultivated with substrate, under four irrigation regimes, i.e., well-watered (WW), low (LWD, 80% WW), moderate (MWD, 60% WW) and high (HWD, 40% WW) water deficit. The substrate water content of WW treatment was 75%θf to 90%θf (where θf is the field capacity). The study results showed that the single fruit weight and yield of tomato were significantly declined with an increasing water deficit degree. Compared to WW treatment, the fruit weight and yield were decreased about 34.45% and 20.35% for '181' and 'Mao Fen 802' under HWD treatment, respectively. Conversely, water deficit treatment led to an obvious promotion of WUE and showed an upward trend as the water deficit level increased. In addition, compared to WW treatment, the water deficit significantly decreased the total flavonoids of the '181' tomato by 24.4–93.1%, whereas there was no significant impact on that of 'Mao Fen 802'. Nonetheless, different individual polyphenols were increased by suitable deficit irrigation for two tomato cultivars. Gallic acid, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, and naringin of '181'tomato were increased by 128.4–195.2%, 8.6–43.7%, and 31–73-fold, respectively, under water deficit compared to WW treatment. Further, under water deficit treatment, p-coumaric acid, benzoic acid, and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid of 'Mao Fen 802' were increased by 36.2–49.2%, 59.1–189.7%, and 36.3–106.4% compared to WW treatment. As the main carotenoid component, the lycopene content of tomato fruit exhibited a significant rise of 7.84–20.02% and 20.55–32.13% for '181' and 'Mao Fen 802' under three degrees of water deficit compared to WW treatment. Linear regression showed a significantly positive relationship between irrigation amounts and yield, and total polyphenols, whereas there was a significantly negative relationship between irrigation amounts and WUE, and total carotenoids. Based on correlation and PCA, WW and LWD, and MWD and HWD, were gathered together for '181', while LWD, MWD, and HWD, were gathered, and only WW scattered for 'Mao Fen 802', along the PC1 direction. It was proposed that 'Mao Fen 802' was more sensitive to water deficit than the '181' tomato. In conclusion, water deficit is conductive to water-saving cultivation of the greenhouse tomato and the tomato genotypes, and water deficit level is a key factor necessary for consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of organic fertilizer "cow manure" applications on quantitative and qualitative traits of hot pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) evaluated under field conditions. Treatments consisted of four levels of cow manure (0, 5, 10, and 15 t ha−1) for both the 2017 and 2018 growing seasons. The results indicated that cow manure applied at 15 t ha−1 resulted in the highest number of fruits per plant, antioxidant activities, and carbohydrate contents. At the same time, the lowest values were recorded in the control treatment in 2017 and 2018 (respectively). In both years, the highest plant height, number of lateral branches, number of nodes, fruit yield per plant, fruit fresh weight, and total flavonoids were obtained in 10 t ha−1 of cow manure treatment. The lycopene contents were 47 and 60% higher in 5 t ha−1 of cow dung fertilizer than control treatments in both seasons. The minimum β –Carotene was recorded in control, and the maximum was observed in 5 t ha−1 of cow manure fertilizer in both years. The results confirm that cow manure positively affects hot peppers' vegetative and reproductive traits and antioxidant activity under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global exploration of nanoparticles as nano-fertilizers/nano-fungicides to optimize crop production has attracted greater attention. Among metal oxide nano-formulations, the increasing application and discharge of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) into the environment requires urgent attention due to their toxic and stimulatory impact on plants, including vegetables. This study aimed at the bio-fabrication of CuO-NPs from Rosa indica petal extracts and to assess their nanotoxicity on germination and biological and biochemical growth of tomato plants. The morphological characterization of phytofabricated CuO-NPs by microscopic (SEM/TEM) and spectroscopic (XRD/FTIR) techniques revealed its nanostructure, spherical shape ranging in size between 23 and 47 nm exhibiting different functional groups. Furthermore, tomato-CuO-NPs interactions resulted in reduced germination percentage and plant biomass. At the biochemical level, the chlorophyll content decreased consistently, while malonaldehyde and proline content in tomato foliage enhanced substantially with increasing concentrations of CuO-NPs. Size, lycopene content (71 % reduction), and fruit quality (metabolites like sugars, amino acids, and organic acids) assessed by 1H NMR declined after CuO-NPs exposure in a dose-dependent manner. Further in situ experiments revealed deformation in a stomatal aperture in leaves and accumulation of CuO-NPs in roots, suggesting toxicity under SEM. In summation, this study highlights the toxicity of biosynthesized CuO-NPs to tomato plants paving the way to develop novel strategies to mitigate its toxicity to vegetable crops, particularly tomato under real field conditions. [Display omitted] • Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) exhibit toxic and stimulatory effects on plants. • Biogenic synthesized CuO-NPs from Rosa indica petal extract shows phytotoxicity to tomato plants. • Exposure to CuO-NPs reduces germination percentage, plant biomass, and fruit quality. • Metal oxide nanoparticles increase malondialdehyde and proline content after CuO-NPs exposure. • Strategies need to be developed to counteract nano-CuO toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Protein hydrolysates (PHs) can enhance plant nitrogen nutrition and improve the quality of vegetables, depending on their bioactive compounds. A tomato greenhouse experiment was conducted under both optimal (14 mM) and suboptimal (2 mM) nitrogen (N‐NO3) conditions. Tomatoes were treated with a new Malvaceae‐derived PH (MDPH) and its molecular fractions (MDPH1, >10 kDa; MDPH2, 1–10 kDa and MDPH3, <1 kDa). RESULTS: Under optimal N conditions, the plants increased biomass and fruit yield, and showed a higher photosynthetic pigment content in leaves in comparison with suboptimal N, whereas under N‐limiting conditions, an increase in dry matter, soluble solid content (SSC) and lycopene, a reduction in firmness, and changes in organic acid and phenolic compounds were observed. With 14 mM N‐NO3, MDPH3 stimulated an increase in dry weight and increased yield components and lycopene in the fruit. The MDPH2 fraction also resulted in increased lycopene accumulation in fruit under 14 mM N‐NO3. At a low N level, the PH fractions showed distinct effects compared with the whole MDPH and the control, with an increase in biomass for MDPH1 and MDPH2 and a higher pigment content for MDPH3. Regardless of N availability, all the fractions affected fruit quality by increasing SSC, whereas MDPH2 and MDPH3 modified organic acid content and showed a higher concentration of flavonols, lignans, and stilbenes. CONCLUSION: The molecular weight of the peptides modifies the effect of PHs on plant performance, with different behavior depending on the level of N fertilization, confirming the effectiveness of fractioning processes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, being a potential bioactive compound for gut health. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of carotenoids on gut microbiota, gut barrier, and inflammation in healthy animals. The systematic search from PubMed, Scopus, and Lilacs databases were performed up to March 2023. The final screening included thirty studies, with different animal models (mice, rats, pigs, chicks, drosophila, fish, and shrimp), and different carotenoid sources (β-carotene, lycopene, astaxanthin, zeaxanthin, lutein, and fucoxanthin). The results suggested that carotenoids seem to act on gut microbiota by promoting beneficial effects on intestinal bacteria related to both inflammation and SCFA production; increase tight junction proteins expression, important for reducing intestinal permeability; increase the mucins expression, important in protecting against pathogens and toxins; improve morphological parameters important for digestion and absorption of nutrients; and reduce pro-inflammatory and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines. However, different carotenoids had distinct effects on gut health. In addition, there was heterogeneity between studies regarding animal model, duration of intervention, and doses used. This is the first systematic review to address the effects of carotenoids on gut health. Further studies are needed to better understand the effects of carotenoids on gut health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproductive performance is a crucial aspect of poultry production and is carefully controlled by endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine factors. This study aimed to investigate the effect of lycopene on testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells of laying breeder roosters, clarify the mechanism of lycopene improving Leydig cells function and promoting testosterone production, and explore the role of related signal transduction pathways in testosterone synthesis. A total of 96 healthy 55-week-old breeding roosters were randomly assigned to one of five dietary treatments. They were provided with a corn-soybean meal-based diet containing different levels of lycopene: 0 mg/kg (control), 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, or 200 mg/kg. The experiment lasted for 6 weeks. With the increase in lycopene levels, the testosterone content in the plasma was significantly higher than in the control group. Testicular Leydig cells were isolated and cultured from fresh testicular tissue of 45-wk-old to 60-wk-old breeding roosters. Various doses of lycopene were administered to Leydig cells, and subsequently, cells were collected for the detection of cell viability and testosterone content. The optimal concentration of lycopene to be added was determined, and changes in mRNA expression and protein levels of key proteins involved in testosterone synthesis were investigated. The results showed that lycopene treatment significantly increased testosterone secretion, mRNA expression, and protein levels of steroid-producing enzymes. Cells were collected to measure the activity of antioxidant enzymes, the mRNA transcription level of apoptotic factors, and the protein expression of apoptotic factors after treatment with lycopene. The results showed that lycopene significantly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, and the ability to inhibit oxygen radicals, and decreased the content of malondialdehyde. Apoptosis was inhibited by regulating the expression of apoptosis-inducing and anti-apoptosis factors. After that, the MAPK signaling pathway and downstream SF-1, Nrf2 gene, and protein expression levels were detected. The results showed that lycopene treatment significantly increased the gene and protein expression of JNK , SF-1 , and Nrf2 , and significantly decreased the gene and protein expression of p38. Lycopene treatment could promote testosterone synthesis of testicular Leydig cells by activating MAPK-SF-1 (increasing steroid-producing enzyme level) and MAPK-Nrf2 pathways (resisting oxidative damage). • Lycopene treatment increases testosterone secretion in Leydig cells in aged breeder roosters. • Lycopene promotes testosterone secretion by activating the MAPK-SF-1 and MAPK-Nrf2 signaling pathways. • Lycopene reduces oxidative stress markers and inhibits apoptosis in Leydig cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractDue to its antioxidant action, the carotenoid lycopene has been demonstrated to have a protective effect in several disease models; however, its effect on the nanoform of titanium oxide (nano-TiO2)-induced neurotoxicity has not yet been determined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how lycopene affects neuronal damage brought on by nano-TiO2 and the mechanisms involved. SH-SY5Y cells were treated with different concentrations of nano-TiO2 for 48 hours, the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test was used after that to evaluate cell viability. IC50 of nano-TiO2 was determined and the results revealed that IC50 is equal 40 µM/mL, lycopene (10 µM) was applied to SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells an hour before exposure to 40 µM nano-TiO2. Reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin 1 beta, nuclear factor kappa B, and apoptotic markers (Bcl2, Bax, and caspase-3), were measured to determine the anti-oxidant effect of lycopene. In SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, pretreatment with 10 µM lycopene significantly reduced the toxicity brought on by exposure to nano-TiO2, according to MTT assay findings and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) cytotoxicity assessment. In cells exposed to nano-TiO2, lycopene pretreatment significantly boosted the activity of antioxidative enzymes and reduced oxidative stress. Furthermore, when SH-SY5Y cells were subjected to nano-TiO2, lycopene pretreatment stopped neuroinflammation and apoptosis. The findings of this study suggest that lycopene may be an effective neuroprotective against oxidative stress and neuroinflammation and may be used to stop neuronal death or injury in a variety of neurological illnesses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the impact of pre-harvest fungicide applications on the postharvest storage performance of tomato fruits, we measured the lycopene content, hardness, soluble solids content, rotting rate, and weight loss rate of the fruits, as well as conducted a sensory assessment. Protective and systematic fungicides were sprayed on tomatoes 20 days before harvest in order to prevent rotting and weight loss during storage. Our findings showed that, the fungicide-treated tomatoes had a significantly lower rotting rate of 16.00% and a weight loss rate of 3.96%. However the control group experienced 65.33% rotting rate and 6.90% weight loss rate on 12th days of storage. Out of the pre-harvest applications, 'Zineb' a protective fungicide significantly delayed the loss of hardness and soluble solids accumulation in tomato fruits during storage, but it had no significant effect on lycopene content. On the other hand, when comparing to the examined treatment, the systemic fungicides did not have any significant effect on the postharvest storage performance of tomato fruits. Sensory evaluation results indicated that systemic fungicides improved the aroma of the fruits, while protective fungicides had a greater impact on the appearance and juiciness of the fruits. This study offers a potential novel solution for preserving fruits and vegetables which have been frequently infected by phytopathogens during storage, and consequently mitigate/reduce postharvest losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field experiment was carried out at Central Research Farm, Gayeshpur, BCKV, Nadia, West Bengal, India during the Rabi season (October, 2021 to March, 2022) with the aim to study the effects of different biostimulants for growth, yield and quality of tomato. The treatments were T1 (Control or untreated), T2 (Bayfolan Algae @ 1.5 ml l-1), T3 (Bayfolan Algae @ 2 ml l-1), T4 0(Bayfolan Algae @ 2.5 ml l-1), T5 (Isabion @2 ml l-1), T6 (Bayfolan Algae @ 5 ml l-1) and T7 (Isabion @ 1.5 ml l-1). Analysis of variance clearly revealed the significant effects of biostimulants with different treatments in respect to growth, yield and quality parameters of tomato. The treatment T4 (Bayfolan Algae @ 2.5 ml l-1) recorded significantly maximum plant height (82.47 cm), number of branches plant-1 (7.04) at 60 DAT, fruit weight (74.63 g), maximum average yield plant-1 (3.26 kg, yield plot-1 (130.18 kg) and yield ha-1 (872.32 q). The same treatment T4 of Bayfolan Algae @ 2.5 ml l-1 also recorded maximum equatorial diameter (6.92 cm), maximum polar diameter (5.80 cm) and highest values of TSS (5.08 °brix), highest lycopene (5.05 mg 10-1) and ascorbic acid (26.74 mg g-1) content even which is economically viable and emerged as best treatment for getting better growth, yield and quality of Tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: To investigate the impact of tomato consumption on reducing metabolic syndrome risk factors in overweight postmenopausal women, we conducted a randomized controlled trial with an 8-week open-label dietary intervention. Overweight postmenopausal women aged 45–70 were randomly divided into two groups: a control diet and a tomato diet. The tomato diet group showed significantly lower body fat mass, body fat percentage, waist circumference, and hip circumference compared with the control group. They also had significantly lower serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, systolic blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, as well as higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Additionally, antioxidant biomarkers such as FRAP, beta-carotenoids, and lycopene were significantly higher in the tomato diet group. These findings suggest that fresh tomato consumption can enhance antioxidant biomarkers and reduce metabolic syndrome risks in postmenopausal women. (1) Background: According to the 2005~2008 Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (NAHSIT), more than half of Taiwanese women (57.3%) had metabolic syndrome during menopause. Metabolic syndrome is a set of risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mortality. Epidemiological studies suggest that the consumption of tomato-based foods might reduce the risk factors for CVD. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of tomato consumption on lowering the metabolic syndrome risk factors among overweight postmenopausal women. (2) Methods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial using 8-week open-label dietary intervention. Overweight postmenopausal women aged 45–70 years old were recruited from Taipei Medical University in October 2013. They were randomly assigned into two groups (a control diet vs. a tomato diet). Blood samples were collected at the baseline and at the 4th and 8th weeks. The lipid profile, blood sugar, and antioxidant biomarkers, i.e., the ferric-reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and serum carotenoids, were analyzed. Blood pressure, body weight, and body fat were also measured every week. (3) Results: After the 8-week dietary intervention, body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and hip circumference were significantly lower in both groups (p < 0.05). Body fat mass, body fat percentage, waist circumference, and hip circumference were significantly lower in the tomato diet group than in the control diet group. The tomato diet group had significantly lower serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, systolic blood pressure and blood sugar, and higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol than the control diet group. The antioxidant biomarkers, FRAP, beta-carotenoids, and lycopene were significantly higher in the tomato diet group than in the control diet group. (4) Conclusions: Fresh tomato consumption can increase antioxidant biomarkers to reduce risks of metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is considered one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. The browning process has been recently recognized as a promising anti-obesity therapy. Lycopene (LYC) and Garcinia cambogia fruit extract (GE) might be important resources for anti-obesity drugs; therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the anti-obesity effects of LYC and GE on 3T3-L1 adipocytes and Zucker rats. Mouse 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes were differentiated in mature adipocytes and then treated with LYC (0.5 μM), GE (30 mg/mL) or LYC + GE for 24 h. Moreover, male Zucker Crl:ZUC-Leprfa rats were randomly assigned to 5 groups of 10 animals to orally receive Vehicle (Ctrl), Orlistat (20 mg/kg), LYC (5 mg/kg), GE (1000 mg/kg) or LYC + GE for 28 days. LYC, GC extracts and even more LYC + GE stimulated the mRNA and protein expression of thermogenic genes UCP1, CIDEA and DIO2, significantly reduced lipid droplet size and increased lipid droplet number in adipocytes. UCP1 mRNA and protein expression was also increased in the visceral adipose tissue of the rats that received the dietary intake of LYC, GE and even more LYC + GE. Moreover, LYC + GE induced the reorganization of visceral fat depots that showed a great number of small adipocytes and a significant reduction in weight gain and food intake compared to the control group. The obtained results demonstrated that LYC + GE might be used as new approaches for obesity management in order to induce the browning process and achieve a metabolically active tissue instead of a tissue characterized by lipid depot accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), as one of the most valuable horticulture crops, was chosen to investigate the effect of nanoparticles (NPs) in the form of nano-ZnO combined with conventional fertilizer on the quality of tomato fruits, including their antioxidant potential (total antioxidant activity, lycopene and β-carotene content), sugars content and allergenic potential (profilin and Bet v 1 content). Nano-ZnO was implemented during plant cultivation, applied by foliar spraying or directly via soil, at three different concentrations (50, 150 and 250 mg/L). The obtained results suggest that the usage of NPs during tomato plant cultivation had minor impacts on parameters such as total antioxidant activity or the content of selected allergens. Even though the total antioxidant activity was not affected by nano-ZnO, the malondialdehyde activity (MDA) content was notably decreased in fruits under nano-ZnO treatment. The content of lycopene and β-carotene was significantly affected by the use of nano-ZnO. Moreover, the usage of nano-ZnO significantly increased the total sugar content in fruits treated with nanoparticles via foliar spraying. Based on the obtained results, it can be stated that nano-ZnO, regardless of the method of application, significantly affected tomato fruits which can be beneficial for fruit production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycopene is usually extracted from the by‐product of the tomato industry using organic solvents (OS) in combination with a physical technique. An emerging physical technique is high‐pressure processing (HPP). This study aims to find a method by applying a green solvent (edible vegetable oils) in an HPP‐assisted solid–liquid extraction. Three dosages of tomato by‐product (10%, 20%, and 40%, w/v) were tested using OS, sunflower oil (RSO), and extra‐virgin olive oil (EVOO). Lycopene recovery increased with the ratio of by‐product to oil, particularly when using EVOO. In another stage of the study, consumers evaluated EVOO that contained two doses of tomato by‐product (10% and 20%, w/v). Consumers preferred the EVOO from 10% tomato by‐product ratio over that with 20%. Additionally, 83.8% of consumers stated that enriched oil could be deemed beneficial for health. The proposed method considers the fundamental principles of the circular economy and practical industrial scenario to recover lycopene from tomato by‐product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycopene is a compound classified as carotenoid, also known as tetraterpenoids, and its high antioxidative capabilities make demand in pharmaceutical and nutrient fields. For these reasons, much research on microbial production of lycopene has been developed and reported for more than two decades. Nevertheless, a standardized in vitro biosynthesis method for lycopene synthesis has not been reported to date. The major reasons of the absence of this method lie on the poor solubility of hydrophobic intermediates (geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate [GGPP] and phytoene), and the difficulty of employing membrane-binding enzyme, phytoene desaturase (CrtI) into in vitro reactions. In this study, we developed a standard method of in vitro biosynthesis of lycopene from geranyl pyrophosphate using four enzymes, namely farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase (IspA), GGPP synthase (CrtE), phytoene synthase (CrtB), phytoene desaturase (CrtI), and liposome-the key material, which can provide both hydrophobic area and a lipid membrane for the membrane-binding enzyme CrtI. Moreover, we performed a screening of the in vitro lycopene synthetic pathway using cell-free protein synthesis system, which verifies the applicability of our system as a tool for screening the lycopene synthesis pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sesquiterpenes and tetraterpenes are classes of plant-derived natural products with antineoplastic effects. While plant extraction of the sesquiterpene, germacrene A, and the tetraterpene, lycopene suffers supply chain deficits and poor yields, chemical synthesis has difficulties in separating stereoisomers. This review highlights cutting-edge developments in producing germacrene A and lycopene from microbial cell factories. We then summarize the antineoplastic properties of β-elemene (a thermal product from germacrene A), sesquiterpene lactones (metabolic products from germacrene A), and lycopene. We also elaborate on strategies to optimize microbial-based germacrene A and lycopene production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The liver, being the most metabolically active organ, is highly vulnerable to damage caused by oxidative stress. Rosa davurica Pall. seed oil (RDPO), a novel vegetable oil, and its bioactive components have been extensively researched in the field of antioxidants. In this research, the antioxidant properties and hepatoprotection by RDPO were evaluated. A series of antioxidant evaluation systems and a CCl4-induced acute liver injury model in mice were used to investigate the antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective efficacy of RDPO. The results showed that the extraction rate of RDPO was 11.12% using the optimal extraction process. Three major unsaturated fatty acids of the oil were α-linolenic acid (11.89 ± 0.017%), linoleic acid (18.52 ± 0.072%), and oleic acid (11.54 ± 0.425%). Furthermore, its antioxidant small-molecule compounds were β-sitosterol (1.429 ± 0.002 μg/g), α-tocopherol (1.273 ± 0.079 μg/g), β-carotene (0.012 ± 0.001 μg/g), lycopene (0.108 ± 0.002 μg/g), squalene (178.950 ± 0.794 μg/g), total polyphenols (1.114 ± 0.032 μg GAE/mg), and total flavonoids (0.504 ± 0.009 mg RU/g), respectively. In vitro, RDPO significantly inhibited the production of ABTS+•, DPPH•, O2•−, and hydroxyl radicals, as well as Fe3+. In vivo, RDPO significantly reversed the activity of total superoxide-dismutase, catalase, L-glutathione, and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissue. It also obviously inhibited the activity of aspartate transaminase (AST) and the level of MDA in the serum. Therefore, RDPO has demonstrated excellent antioxidant activity and a potential liver protective effect. This effect may be ascribed to its capacity for decreasing AST activity, inhibiting lipid peroxidation, and boosting endogenous antioxidant enzyme activity. Therefore, RDPO has significant application value in the biopharmaceutical industry and as a dietary supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomatoes are well known for their impressive nutritional value among vegetables. However, the industrial processing of tomatoes generates a significant amount of waste. Specifically, 10% to 18% of the raw materials used in tomato processing become waste. This waste can seriously affect ecosystems, such as freshwater bodies, wetlands, rivers, and other natural environments, if not properly managed. Interestingly, tomato waste, specifically the skin, contains lycopene, a potent antioxidant and antimutagenic that offers a range of health benefits. This makes it a valuable ingredient in industries such as food and cosmetics. In addition, researchers are exploring the potential of lycopene in the treatment of various types of cancer. This systematic review, guided by the PRISMA 2020 methodology, examined studies exploring the possibility of tomato peel as a source of lycopene and carotenoids for cancer treatment. The findings suggest that tomato peel extracts exhibit promising anticancer properties, underscoring the need for further investigation of possible therapeutic applications. The compiled literature reveals significant potential for using tomato peel to create new cancer treatments, which could potentially revolutionize the field of oncology. This underscores the importance of continued research and exploration, emphasizing the urgency and importance of the scientific community’s contribution to this promising area of study [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tomato processing industry generates large amounts of waste, which creates disposal problems and negatively impacts the environment. Tomato waste contains lycopene, high-value health- and wellness-promoting bioactive, and it is a potential source of natural lycopene for food and nutraceutical applications. However, isolation of lycopene from its source requires toxic solvents, and lycopene is unstable during storage. The objective of this study was to extract lycopene from tomato waste and to convert it to a shelf-stable and easy-to-use free-flowing powder form using green extraction and particle formation processes based on supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) technology. Lycopene was extracted using SC-CO2 and then loaded into hollow solid lipid microparticles using a particle formation process based on the atomization of SC-CO2-expanded lipids. Spherical free-flowing lycopene-loaded particles were obtained at different lycopene contents (30 and 50%, v/v). During 1-month storage at 4 and 22 °C, particles were stable in terms of morphology, polymorphism, and color. Lycopene loss was about 29% in the lipid particles at 22 °C, whereas it was 88% in the lycopene extract during 1-month storage. This green approach adds value to food processing waste and has the potential to generate bioactive carriers that are shelf-stable and convenient to store, handle, and transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing levels of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) in the environment poses huge global health threat. Prolonged exposure to PS-MPs results in both male and female infertility, with a deleterious effect on reproductive health. In rats, the disruptive effects of chemotoxicants have been countered by lycopene (LYC). This study examined the protective benefits of lycopene (LYC) against spermatological damage and hormonal alterations brought on by polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) in male rats. Twenty Wistar rats were split into four groups of five rats, each consisting of: the control group, the PSMPs treatment group, the PS-MPs + LYC cotreatment group, and the LYC supplementation group. Severe testicular histological damage was seen to have resulted from exposure to PS-MPs. The PS-MPs treatment dramatically reduced the antioxidant enzyme activities while raising the levels of ROS and MDA, thus reducing sperm progressive motility. Also, spermatological damage and hormonal alterations brought on by polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) were also prevented by the effects of lycopene (LYC). In conclusion, LYC supplementation has the ability to reduce the harmful effects of PSMPs on the male reproductive system. Accordingly, LYC prevented PS-MPs-induced spermatological damage and reproductive hormonal changes in rats via its anti-oxidant, androgenic, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycopene is a promising biological functional component with various biological activities and excellent pharmacological activities. However, its low water solubility and stability lead to low oral bioavailability, which limits its edible and medicinal research. Then, it is necessary to explore effective methods to protect lycopene from destruction and further exploit its potential benefits. The absorption of lycopene in vivo is affected by solubility, stability, isomer type, emulsifying ability, difficulty in forming micelles in vivo, and interaction with food components. Emulsions, pickering emulsions, micelles, liposomes, bigels, beasds, solid dispersions, microcapsules, nanoparticles, electrospinning and other drug delivery systems can be used as good strategies to improve the stability and bioavailability of lycopene. In this paper, the absorption process of lycopene in vivo and the factors affecting its bioavailability were discussed, and the preparation strategies for improving the stability, bioavailability, and health benefits of lycopene were reviewed, to provide some clues and references for the full utilization of lycopene in the field of health. However, there are still various unresolved mysteries regarding the metabolism of lycopene. The safety and in vivo studies of various preparations should be further explored, and the above technologies also face the challenge of industrial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycopene as a natural antioxidant that have been studied for ultraviolet radiation (UVR) photo protection and is one of the most effective carotenoids to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). This review aims to summarize the protective effect of tomato and lycopene on skin photo damage and skin photoaging in healthy subjects by reviewing the existing population intervention experiments. A total of five electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were searched from inceptions to January 2021 without any restriction. Out of 19336 publications identified, 21 fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were meta-analysis. Overall, interventions supplementing tomato and lycopene were associated with significant reductions in Δa*, MMP-1, ICAM-1 and skin pigmentation; while tomato and lycopene supplementation were associated with significant increase in MED, skin thickness and skin density. Based on the results of this systematic review and meta-analysis, supplementation with tomato and lycopene could reduce skin erythema formation and improve the appearance and pigmentation of the skin, thereby preventing light-induced skin photodamage and skin photoaging. Lycopene-rich products could be used as endogenous sun protection and may be a potential nutraceutical for sun protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato fruit ripening is accompanied by carotenoid accumulation and color changes. To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms underlying carotenoid synthesis during fruit ripening, a combined transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis was conducted on red-fruited tomato (WP190) and orange-fruited tomato (ZH108). A total of twenty-nine (29) different carotenoid compounds were identified in tomato fruits at six different stages. The abundance of the majority of the carotenoids was enhanced significantly with fruit ripening, with higher levels of lycopene; (E/Z)-lycopene; and α-, β- and γ-carotenoids detected in the fruits of WP190 at 50 and 60 days post anthesis (DPA). Transcriptome analysis revealed that the fruits of two varieties exhibited the highest number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at 50 DPA, and a module of co-expressed genes related to the fruit carotenoid content was established by WGCNA. qRT-PCR analysis validated the transcriptome result with a significantly elevated transcript level of lycopene biosynthesis genes (including SlPSY2, SlZCIS, SlPDS, SlZDS and SlCRTSO2) observed in WP190 at 50 DPA in comparison to ZH108. In addition, during the ripening process, the expression of ethylene biosynthesis (SlACSs and SlACOs) and signaling (SlEIN3 and SlERF1) genes was also increased, and these mechanisms may regulate carotenoid accumulation and fruit ripening in tomato. Differential expression of several key genes in the fruit of two tomato varieties at different stages regulates the accumulation of carotenoids and leads to differences in color between the two varieties of tomato. The results of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of carotenoid accumulation and ethylene biosynthesis and signal transduction pathway regulatory mechanisms during tomato fruit development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycopene is a naturally occurring carotenoid predominantly found in tomatoes and tomato‐based products. Like other phytochemicals, it exhibits health beneficial biological activities that can be exploited when it is used as a dietary supplement. In vitro and in vivo, lycopene has been demonstrated to mitigate oxidative stress‐induced metabolic dysfunctions and diseases including inflammation, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. Lycopene has been shown to alleviate metabolic diseases that affect the bone, eye, kidney, liver, lungs, heart, and nervous system. This review presents the state of the art regarding lycopene's health benefits and its potential applications in health system delivery. Furthermore, lycopene's protective effects against toxins, safety in its use, and possible toxicity are explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycopene β cyclase (LCY-B) catalyzes the conversion of linear lycopene to cyclic β carotene, a crucial component of the photosynthetic machinery and a source of vitamin A for humans and animals. The gene was amplified in fragments using primers designed from conserved sequences of available nucleotide sequences from NCBI and a sequence of 1494 bp was observed upon amplification of the complete gene. The deduced amino acid sequence had a significant overall similarity with sequences of other Capsicum plants. It was observed that C. frutescens occurred in the same cluster as C. annuum and C. baccatum, while LCYB from all the other plants of the Solanaceae family were placed in one cluster signifying the conserved nature of the protein. The tertiary structure obtained from the protein was validated using the Ramachandran plot and ERRANT scores were determined. The protein function analysis gives insight into important parameters of the protein such as the number of cysteine residues, glycosylation sites, phosphorylation sites, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on the association between serum carotenoids and cancer-related death. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2001–2006 and 2017–2018), the study encompasses 10,277 participants older than age 20 years, with recorded baseline characteristics and serum carotenoid concentrations (including α-carotene, trans -β-carotene, cis -β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, trans -lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin). We hypothesized that serum carotenoid concentrations were negatively associated with cancer-related death. The weighted chi-square analyses indicate significant negative correlations between higher serum concentrations of α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, trans -lycopene, and total carotenoids, and the risk of cancer-related deaths. Using weighted Cox regression analysis, this study confirms that α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, trans -lycopene, and total carotenoids, as continuous or categorical variables, are inversely related to cancer mortality (P <.0001). Furthermore, considering competitive risk events, lower concentrations of serum β-cryptoxanthin (Fine-Gray P = 1.12e-04), trans -lycopene (P = 5.68e-14), and total carotenoids (P =.03) are associated with an increased risk of cancer-related deaths. The research reveals a crucial inverse relationship between serum carotenoid concentrations and cancer-related death. • Higher α-carotene concentration links to lower cancer death risk. • Higher β-cryptoxanthin concentration links to lower cancer death risk. • Higher trans-lycopene concentration links to lower cancer death risk. • Higher total carotenoids concentration links to lower cancer death risk. • Study used data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The present study encompasses 10,277 participants older than age 20 years, with recorded baseline characteristics and serum carotenoid concentration (including α-carotene, trans -β-carotene, cis -β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, trans -lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin). The research reveals an inverse relationship between serum total carotenoids concentrations and cancer-related death. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hibiscus , a flowering plant (Malvaceae) renowned for medicinal and aesthetic value. • First in-depth report on the characterization of 19 different Hibiscus germplasms. • Revealed significant morphological, biochemical, and molecular diversity. • A multifaceted analysis of biochemical traits encompassing antioxidant properties. • Exhibited 34.75 % polymorphism among 19 Hibiscus germplasms using four molecular marker systems. Hibiscus , a popular ornamental plant of mallow family Malvaceae, is composed of more than 400 species of flowering plants. It is originally native to tropical Asia (China and India) and grows in warm-temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions worldwide. The basic chromosome number varies from x = 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 15, 17, 19, 20 and 39. In ancient times, it was only used for religious purposes (as offerings to God), but nowadays, it is considered of great significance as an ornamental as well as a medicinal plant. Important species found in this zone are Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L., H. cannabinus L., H. storckii Seem., H. fragilis DC., H. schizopetalus (Mast.) Hooker. f. along with germplasms like Celia, Kali Jaba, Red Dragon, Cinnamon Girl, Brilliant, etc. have been identified to date. Still, there is a lack of proper documentation and characterization (based on morphological, biochemical, and molecular traits). With this aim in mind, the above research work was considered. On the basis of morphological parameters (plant height, flower weight, type of flower, etc.), Brilliant (T 1), Sudarshan Chakra (T 16), Storckii (T 15), and Golden Doublon (T 8) were similar but diverse from the rest of the germplasms. Likewise, Brilliant (T 1), Golden Doublon (T 8), Celia (T 2), and Versicolor Pinwheel (T 19) were rich in biochemical pigments viz., chlorophyll, carotenoid, lycopene, and anthocyanin content. In contrast, phenol and ascorbic acid were found to be highest in Spider (T 15), and antioxidant properties (DPPH and FRAP assay) were maximum in Oiseau Blue (T 12). Finally, a significant amount of genetic diversity was assessed with molecular markers, and 141 loci were produced using inter simple sequence repeats, start codon targeted, conserved DNA-derived polymorphism, and directed amplification of minisatellite-region DNA marker systems, out of which 49 loci were polymorphic (34.75 % polymorphism). On the basis of molecular diversity analyzed by network plot, unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean clustering, and principal component analyses, Oiseau Blue (T 12) was found completely diverse from all the germplasms, placed separately in the dendrogram, and thus may be considered as a potential parent for the hybridization programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Escherichia coli (E. coli) can induce severe clinical bovine mastitis, which is to blame for large losses experienced by dairy farms. Macrophage polarization into various states is in response to pathogen infections. Lycopene, a naturally occurring hydrocarbon carotenoid, relieved inflammation by controlling M1/M2 status of macrophages. Thus, we wanted to explore the effect of lycopene on polarization states of macrophages in E. coli-induced mastitis. Macrophages were cultivated with lycopene for 24, before E. coli inoculation for 6 h. Lycopene (0.5 μmol/L) significantly enhanced cell viabilities and significantly reduced lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) levels in macrophages, whereas 2 and 3 μmol/L lycopene significantly enhanced LDH activities. Lycopene treatment significantly reduced the increase in LDH release, iNOS, CD86, TNF-α, IL-1β and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expressions in E. coli group. 0.5 μmol/L lycopene significantly increased E. coli-induced downregulation of CD206, arginase I (ARG1), indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), chitinase 3-like 3 (YM1), PI3K, AKT, p-AKT, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), p-mTOR, jumonji domain-containing protein-3 (JMJD3) and interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) levels. Moreover, Ginkgolic acid C17:1 (a specific PTEN inhibitor), 740YPDGFR (a specific PI3K activator), SC79 (a specific AKT activator) or CHPG sodium salt (a specific NF-κB activator) significantly decreased CD206, AGR1, IDO and YM1 expressions in lycopene and E. coli-treated macrophages. Therefore, lycopene increased M2 macrophages via inhibiting NOTCH1-PI3K-mTOR-NF-κB-JMJD3-IRF4 pathway in response to E. coli infection in macrophages. These results contribute to revealing the pathogenesis of E. coli-caused bovine mastitis, providing the new angle of the prevention and management of mastitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to evaluate nutrient retention in mango, avocado, and tomato dried using freezing, refractance windows, and oven methods. The quality parameters of the dried products were assessed, such as color, water activity, and antioxidant content. Greater color retention was observed for freeze-dried products than for products dried using other methods. All products showed low water activity (>0.4), which prevented microbial growth. Freeze-dried products had the highest content of lycopene and carotenoids. Instead, more flavonoids and phenolics were detected in the refractance window method and then in the oven-dried products. Although freeze-dried products are preferred, the refractance windows method could be a promising drying technology because of its energy savings, easy operations, and low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids are important nutrients for human health that must be obtained from plants since they cannot be biosynthesized by the human body. Dissecting the regulatory mechanism of carotenoid metabolism in plants represents the first step toward manipulating carotenoid contents in plants by molecular design breeding. In this study, we determined that SlAP2c, an APETALA2 (AP2) family member, acts as a transcriptional repressor to regulate carotenoid biosynthesis in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Knockout of SlAP2c in both the "MicroTom" and "Ailsa Craig" backgrounds resulted in greater lycopene accumulation, whereas overexpression of this gene led to orange‐ripe fruit with significantly lower lycopene contents than the wild type. We established that SlAP2c represses the expression of genes involved in lycopene biosynthesis by directly binding to the cis‐elements in their promoters. Moreover, SlAP2c relies on its EAR motif to recruit the co‐repressors TOPLESS (TPL)2/4 and forms a complex with histone deacetylase (had)1/3, thereby reducing the histone acetylation levels of lycopene biosynthesis genes. Furthermore, SlAP2a, a homolog of SlAP2c, acts upstream of SlAP2c and alleviates the SlAP2c‐induced repression of lycopene biosynthesis genes by inhibiting SlAP2c transcription during fruit ripening. Therefore, we identified a transcriptional cascade mediated by AP2 family members that regulates lycopene biosynthesis during fruit ripening in tomato, laying the foundation for the manipulation of carotenoid metabolism in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of water deficit severity and the specific growth stages at which water stress is applied have been found to have significant implications for both tomato yield and fruit quality. Recent findings have highlighted the influence of water deficits during the reproductive phase on tomato fruit quality. This study aimed to assess the effects of deficit irrigation on tomato fruit quality and overall plant productivity. Cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) were grown in a greenhouse from August to November 2022. Three distinct watering regimes were implemented: Daily watering (T1), watering every 3 days (T2) and watering every 7 days (T3), starting from the flowering stage and continuing through subsequent plant development stages. The mean soil metric potentials (SMP) were -4.9, -29.7 and -52.8 kPa for T1, T2 and T3, respectively. Various traits of fruit size, fruit biomass, total soluble solids (TSS), water content, glucose content and lycopene content were measured. Additionally, the overall plant biomass and root-to-shoot ratio were evaluated. The results revealed that traits of the fruit size, such as diameter, length, volume and fresh weight, were most favorable when plants were subjected to the T2 watering regime, while higher and lower watering frequencies led to smaller fruit sizes. Interestingly, the TSS concentration had the most pronounced response to drought stress, indicating increased fruit sweetness. However, the fruit water content, glucose content and lycopene content remained unaffected by the different watering regimes. Furthermore, plants subjected to the T3 with the minimum SMP at -196.4 kPa exhibited enhanced development of the root system, prioritizing resource acquisition such as water and mineral nutrients over shoot components. In conclusion, this study provided valuable insights for agricultural practitioners, offering a range of alternatives that can inform optimal irrigation strategies that effectively enhance the quality of cherry tomato yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomatoes contain many secondary metabolites such as β-carotene, lycopene, phenols, flavonoids, and vitamin C, which are responsible for antioxidant activity. SlSGR1 encodes a STAY-GREEN protein that plays a critical role in the regulation of chlorophyll degradation in tomato leaves and fruits. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the sgr1 null lines based on their physicochemical characteristics, the content of secondary metabolites, and the γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) content. The total soluble solids (TSS), titrated acidity (TA), and brix acid ratio (BAR) of the sgr1 null lines were higher than those of the wild type(WT). Additionally, the sgr1 null lines accumulated higher levels of flavor-inducing ascorbic acid and total carotenoids compared to WT. Also, the total phenolic content, total flavonoids, GABA content, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical content of the sgr1 null lines were higher than those of the WT. Therefore, these studies suggest that the knockout of the SGR1 gene by the CRISPR/Cas9 system can improve various functional compounds in tomato fruit, thereby satisfying the antioxidant properties required by consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]