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Genus Arachis comprises 82 species distributed into nine taxonomic sections. Most Arachis species are wild and those from Arachis section have been evaluated for many traits, since they can be used in peanut breeding. Most of the remaining species have been neglected and understudied. Recently, resveratrol content and expression of a resveratrol synthase gene were analyzed in wild Arachis species. Our aim was to expand the knowledge about resveratrol in Arachis, analyzing species from five sections and evaluating the expression of a resveratrol synthase (RS) gene responsive to ultraviolet light (UV) along the time. In a first experiment, the resveratrol content after UV induction was analyzed on detached leaves of 12 species from five sections. Variation was observed among species and accessions of the same species. The highest contents were found in A. lignosa (843.9 μg/g) and A. triseminata (745.4 μg/g). In a second experiment, RS expression and resveratrol content in four species and one synthetic amphidiploid were analyzed at 0, 7, 15 and 24 h pos induction (hpi) with UV. In most genotypes, the highest RS expression level was at 0 hpi, whereas the highest resveratrol content was at 15 hpi. Our results suggested that resveratrol is ubiquitously present in the genus Arachis with different capacities of synthesis among species and accessions in response to ultraviolet treatment. Presence of resveratrol in wild Arachis species adds new value to these genetic resources.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T17:40:35Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-07-01. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2021-07-15T14:32:06Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S0006-87052017000300406.pdf: 700962 bytes, checksum: 1f21615e69ee646125b1b0c8cff1b546 (MD5) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Foundation for Research and Scientific and Technological Development of Maranhao (FAPEMA), Brazil The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that the quality and quantity of biofortified cassava root in a humid tropical environment can be modified with the application of a combination of low- and high-quality residues of leguminous tree species. The experiment was designed as a 6 x 2 factorial (a combination of 4 legume species versus 2 levels of nitrogen) with 4 replications in a randomized block design and the following treatments: Gliricidia + Acacia, Gliricidia + Leucaena, Gliricidia + Clitoria, Leucaena + Acacia, Leucaena + Clitoria, and a control without legumes. We analyzed the shoot weight, number of roots/plant, root weight, root production, proximate composition, as well as the mineral, carotenoid, and pro-vitamin A contents. Root production increased with the application of high-quality residues. The protein level influenced the carotenoid content. The allelopathic effect of exotic genera - Leucaena and Acacia -, especially when combined, can decrease the mineral content such as potassium and, therefore, reduce the accumulation of starch. Univ Estadual Paulista, Dept Engn & Tecnol Alimentos, Sao Jose Do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil Univ Fed Maranhao, Dept Biol, Sao Luis, MA, Brazil Embrapa Recursos Genet & Biotecnol, Brasilia, DF, Brazil Univ Estadual Maranhao, Programa Posgrad Agroecol, Sao Luis, MA, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Dept Engn & Tecnol Alimentos, Sao Jose Do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil

Carotenoid and ascorbic acid content was determined in peppers of two red cultivars and three yellow lineages of “Jalapeno” (Capsicum annuum L.) plus a “sweet red biquinho” and a “red bode” cultivar (C. chinense Jacquin) from the Brazilian Breeding Program. Capsanthin (68 ± 3 to 177 ± 2 μg/g) was found to be the main carotenoid in the red peppers, and violaxanthin (34 ± 3 to 100 ± 17 μg/g) was the main carotenoid in the yellow jalapeno peppers. Red jalapeno peppers grown in the field (in summer) showed higher zeaxanthin (29 ± 0 and 31 ± 2 μg/g), β-cryptoxanthin (11 ± 1 and 7 ± 0 μg/g), provitamin A (161 ± 2 and 81 ± 2 μg/g) and ascorbic acid (132 ± 2 and 129 ± 2 μg/g) than peppers grown in the greenhouse. Peppers of one yellow jalapeno lineage (C. annuum) and of the red “bode” cultivar (C. chinense) also stood out for their very high levels of zeaxanthin (36 ± 6 and 53 ± 7 μg/g), besides nutritional compounds, provitamin A (222 ± 17 and 299 ± 32 retinol activity equivalents/100 g) and vitamin C (152 ± 5 and 123 ± 1 mg/100 g). These results indicate that the selected peppers presented compounds that are beneficial for human health and that they could be used in the Brazilian pepper breeding programs to develop new commercial hybrids.

Several genera of the Cactoideae and Pereskioideae subfamilies (Hylocereus, Cereus, Pilosocereus, Stenocereus, Myrtillocactus, Melocactus and Pereskia genera) are often consumed as fresh fruits, processed foods and as functional plants. This review discusses the complete bioactive composition related to the genetic effects, the health properties and the safety of these succulent plants, aiming to provide some contributions for future research. Their cladodes, leaves and fruits are notable for water-soluble compounds, carbohydrate polymers, bioactive nitrogen compounds, polyphenols and some uncommon terpenoids. Mucilage, phenethylamines, flavonol glycosides, betalains and some uncommon triterpenoids have been related to the improvement of human health against general inflammation, metabolic disorders and disturbances of the digestive system. The intensive study of different species (and accessions) of both subfamilies, including their complete chemical profile related to genetic and environmental effects, biological properties and safety could represent a significant contribution to benefit human health and preserve biodiversity.

Guaco, a native and perennial Brazilian liana, is one of the medicinal plants most widely commercialized in the Brazilian market. The major bioactive compounds in guaco leaves are coumarin and o-coumaric acid, along with kaurene-type diterpenes. Two Mikania species, M. laevigata and M. glomerata, are both treated as guaco in the Brazilian pharmacopeia and are commercialized indiscriminately, although they can be distinguished by the shape of the leaves and by the characteristic coumarin aroma of M. laevigata. We used DNA barcoding, chromosome counting and chemical analysis to study guaco germplasm accessions from collections in 10 Brazilian states. ETS and ITS sequences failed to distinguish most guaco accessions identified as M. glomerata and M. laevigata regardless of geographical origin, suggesting that M. glomerata and M. laevigata are recently diverged species. The chromosome number 2n = 36 was observed in all guaco accessions. In guaco accessions grown under experimental conditions, two chemical phenotypes were found: phenotype G-I, containing moderate coumarin content (644–755 mg/100 g) and high levels of kaurenoic acid (771–881 mg/100 g) and phenotype G-II, containing high levels of coumarin (1123–1309 mg/100 g) and low levels of kaurenoic acid (160–334 mg/100 g). None of the M. glomerata accessions produced coumarin in satisfactory levels (all

Pulp of buriti palms (Mauritia flexuosa L.f.) from two Brazilian regions had their phenolic and carotenoid contents and antioxidant capacity evaluated through different methods (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP and ORAC). Buriti pulp from the Cerrado presented higher phenolic levels (435.08 mg AGE 100 g(-1)) and elevated antioxidant capacity in all tests. The fruits from the Amazon region had a higher total carotenoid content (52.86 mg 100 g(-1)). Carotenoid profile has confirmed β-carotene predominance in both regions studied. The buritis' region of origin influenced bioactive compound contents and antioxidant capacity of the fruits analyzed. A significant positive correlation (r ⩽ 0.95; p

Ethnopharmacological relevance According to previous ethno-medicinal reviews, Cocos nucifera, Elaeis guineensis and Phoenix dactylifera are among the main palms which are often used on the American and African continents to treat infections, infestations and disorders in the digestive, respiratory, genito-urinary, dermal, endocrine, cardiovascular, muscular-skeletal, mental and neural systems, as well as neoplasms, dental issues and metabolic and nutritional disorders. In addition, one or more species of the wild genera Acrocomia, Areca, Astrocaryum, Attalea, Bactris, Borassus, Calamus, Chamaedorea, Chamaerops, Euterpe, Hyphaene, Mauritia, Oenocarpus and Syagrus have a high number of records of these ethno-medicinal uses. The most used parts of the palm tree are the fruits, followed by roots, seeds, leaves and flower sap. Aim of the study This review discusses the phytochemical composition and the pharmacological properties of these important ethno-medicinal palms, aiming to provide a contribution to future research prospects. Materials and methods Significant information was compiled from an electronic search in widely used international scientific databases (Google Scholar, Science Direct, SciFinder, Web of Science, PubMed, Wiley on line Library, Scielo, ACS Publications), and additional information was obtained from dissertations, theses, books and other relevant websites. Results Palms, in general, are rich in oils, terpenoids and phenolic compounds. Fruits of many species are notable for their high content of healthy oils and fat-soluble bioactive compounds, mainly terpenoids, such as pigment carotenoids (and provitamin A), phytosterols, triterpene pentacyclics and tocols (and vitamin E), while other species stood out for their phenolic compounds derived from benzoic and cinnamic acids, along with flavan-3-ol, flavone, flavonol, and stilbene compounds or anthocyanin pigments. In addition to fruits, other parts of the plant such as seeds, leaves, palm heart, flowers and roots are also sources of many bioactive compounds. These compounds are linked to the ethno-medicinal use of many palms that improve human health against infections, infestations and disorders of human systems. Conclusions Palms have provided bioactive samples that validate their effectiveness in traditional medicine. However, the intensive study of all palm species related to ethno-medicinal use is needed, along with selection of the most appropriate palm accessions, ripe stage of the fruit and /or part of the plant. Furthermore, the complete profiles of all phytochemicals, their effects on animal models and human subjects, and toxicological and clinical trials are suggested, which, added to the incorporation of improved technological processes, should represent a significant advance for the implementation of new opportunities with wide benefits for human health.

Resveratrol is an antioxidant that is a promising antitumoral, cardioprotective and neuroprotective agent. It has been found in a restricted number of plants including peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and its wild relatives. The objective of this study was to understand the relationship between resveratrol content and the expression of putative resveratrol synthase genes in four Arachis genotypes. Two diploids and two tetraploid were analyzed. Contents of resveratrol on non- and UV-treated leaves were estimated using HPLC. Resveratrol synthase (RS) was analyzed using RT-qPCR with primers developed in this study. Sequences of six Arachis species were amplified using two degenerated primer pairs that were designed based on Arachis and general RS available at GenBank. Those sequences were used to qPCR primers design. Test and control leaves were collected from plants cultivated in greenhouse and three biological replicates were evaluated for each genotype. The synthesis of resveratrol in leaves was induced by treatment with UV for 2.5 h. All genotypes studied synthesized resveratrol. Concentrations ranged from 193.66 μg/g in synthetic allotetraploid to 371.97 μg/g in A. duranensis. Natural and induced allotetraoploids showed lower levels of resveratrol than their diploid parents. Untreated samples did not produce significant amounts of resveratrol. The analysis of resveratrol content and levels of RS mRNA allowed the identification of one gene induced by the UV treatment. The data showed different amounts of RS in the different genotypes suggesting early and late response to the UV induction in the different species. The understanding of the variation found among species will help to identify species that have high resveratrol content and their ideal pos-induction times. This also will allow analysis of other tissues where high levels resveratrol would be very important, such as in seeds.

Several carotenoids are known to possess many health-promoting properties. Berries from five accessions of Pereskia aculeata Mill. and leaves from 10 accessions of Pereskia aculeata Mill. and Pereskia grandifolia Haw. were evaluated for their carotenoid composition. The xanthophylls found in berries and leaves were mainly unesterified. Berries of four accessions of Pereskia presented very high levels of β-carotene (>20.0 µg/g), and high levels of α-carotene (>5.0 µg/g), while one of these accessions presented very high contents of α-carotene (35.1 µg/g) and β-carotene (39.3 µg/g), together. Leaves presented high levels of carotenes (β-carotene ranged between 13.8 and 47.0 µg/g) and xanthophylls (lutein ranged between 45.8 and 114.2 µg/g and levels of zeaxanthin of four accessions were >5 µg/g). The high levels of α-carotene and zeaxanthin found in berries and leaves, respectively, could be carotenoid biomarker characteristics for Pereskia species, which may be important sources of functional compounds for health-promotion.

Seeds of a tropical tree species from Brazil, Astronium fraxinifolium, or zebrawood, were germinated, for the first time in microgravity, aboard the International Space Station for nine days. Following three days of subsequent growth under normal terrestrial gravitational conditions, greater root length and numbers of secondary roots was observed in the microgravity-treated seedlings compared to terrestrially germinated controls. Suppression subtractive hybridization of cDNA and EST analysis were used to detect differential gene expression in the microgravity-treated seedlings in comparison to those initially grown in normal gravity (forward subtraction). Despite their return to, and growth in normal gravity, the subtracted library derived from microgravity-treated seedlings was enriched in known microgravity stress-related ESTs, corresponding to large and small heat shock proteins, 14-3-3-like protein, polyubiquitin, and proteins involved in glutathione metabolism. In contrast, the reverse-subtracted library contained a comparatively greater variety of general metabolism-related ESTs, but was also enriched for peroxidase, possibly indicating the suppression of this protein in the microgravity-treated seedlings. Following continued growth for 30 days, higher concentrations of total chlorophyll were detected in the microgravity-exposed seedlings.

Peanut is one of the few plants that synthesizes resveratrol, a phenolic compound of the stilbene class, which has been associated with reduced risk of developing chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, skin diseases, pulmonary diseases, diabetes and neurological diseases. Resveratrol was detected in different parts of the peanut plant, including roots, leaves, seeds and their derivatives. The wild species of the Arachis section are also strong candidates to synthesize resveratrol because they are phylogenetically closely related to cultivated peanut. Our objective was to characterize the resveratrol content in ten wild species of Arachis with three different genomes (A, B and K). The plant material was composed of leaves of the ten species treated (test) and not treated (control) with ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The test and control samples were extracted and the identification and quantification of resveratrol was performed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). All species studied synthesized resveratrol and the concentrations ranged from 299.5 μg/g in A. kempff-mercadoi to 819.9 μg/g in A. cardenasii. DPPH antioxidant activity varied between 18.7 % for A. duranensis and 48.2 % in A. simpsonii. The results showed that wild Arachis species are a potential source of alleles for improvement of cultivated peanut, with the aim of achieving higher resveratrol content in leaves.

Coumarin, o-coumaric, and kaurenoic acid are bioactive compounds usually found in the leaves of Mikania laevigata. Genetic and environmental variations in the secondary metabolites of plants may have implications for their biological effects. Three different accessions of M. laevigata cultivated in four sites between the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn in Brazil were evaluated aiming to present potential raw materials and discuss relationships among these three bioactive compounds. The results revealed effects of plant accessions and environmental factors and suggested two contrasting chemical phenotypes of M. laevigata. The first phenotype presented the highest levels of kaurenoic acid (2283 ± 316 mg/100 g) besides lower levels of coumarin (716 ± 61 mg/100 g), which was also stimulated by the environment and mild climate at the site nearest to the Tropic of Capricorn. The other phenotype presented the lowest levels of kaurenoic acid (137 ± 17 mg/100 g) besides higher levels of coumarin (1362 ± 108 mg/100 g), which was also stimulated by the environment and tropical climate at the site nearest to the Equatorial beach.

Dentre as fruteiras do Cerrado brasileiro com forte potencial para a exploração sustentada, encontram-se o araticum (Annona Crassiflora Mart.), o coquinho-azedo (Butia Capitata Mart.) e o pequi (Caryocar Brasiliense Camb.). O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar o teor de óleo e o perfil de ésteres metílicos da fração lipídica da polpa dos frutos destas três espécies. Os teores de lipídeos foram determinados por extração contínua a quente com éter de petróleo em extrator tipo Soxhlet. O óleo para perfil de ésteres metílicos foi extraído a frio por Bligh e Dyer e caracterizado por cromatografia a gás, usando detector de ionização de chama. A polpa de pequi apresentou elevados teores de óleo, em média 30,89 %; as polpas de araticum e coquinho-azedo apresentaram, respectivamente, médias de 2,14 e 2,73 % de óleo. Os ácidos graxos oleico e palmítico predominaram nas três espécies, e todas apresentaram prevalência de ácidos graxos insaturados, sendo a maior concentração encontrada no araticum (78,3 %), seguida pelo coquinho-azedo (63,3 %). A polpa de araticum e de coquinho-azedo apresentaram elevados teores de ácido linolênico (2,5 a 3,7%). A presença de ésteres metílicos de ácido caproico parece estar associada à percepção do aroma frutal típico destas frutas do Cerrado. Araticum (Annona Crassiflora Mart.), coquinho-azedo (Butia Capitata Mart.) and pequi (Caryocar Brasiliense Camb.) are native fruits from the Brazilian Savanna with strong potential for sustained exploration. The objective of this study was the characterization of lipid contents and fatty acid profiles of these species. Total lipids were hot extracted with petroleum ether in Soxhlet extractor. The oil used for methyl ester profiles was cold extracted by Bligh & Dyer and characterized by gas chromatograph, using flame ionization detector. The pequi pulp presented highest oil content (30.89 %); araticum and coquinho-azedo pulps presented respectively 2.14 and 2.73 %. The oleic and palmitic acids predominated in all three species and all of them presented prevalence of unsaturated fat acids. The highest value was found in araticum pulp (78.3 %), followed by coquinho-azedo pulp (63.3 %). The araticum and coquinho-azedo pulps presented highest content of linolenic acid (2.5 to 3.7 %). Methyl esters of caproic acid found in these pulps seems to be linked to perception of fruit aroma of these native fruits from Cerrado.

Pereskia aculeata Mill. (Ora-pro-nóbis) is a native cactaceae from tropical America, whose leaves have high protein content. In Brazil it is found in all territorial extension between the states of Bahia and Rio Grande do Sul. Most studies have focused on chemical characterization of the leaves of this specie. The objective was to assess the carotenoids profile and the total polyphenols present in the fruits of P. aculeate. Carotenoids were determined by HPLC-PAD (high performance liquid chromatography - photodiode array detector), total polyphenols were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu and vanillin methods. Trans-β-carotene was the main carotenoid, followed by α-carotene, lutein and other minor carotenoids. It was found 64.9 ± 1.1 mg.100g-1 of gallic acid equivalent, 14.8 ± 0.2 mg.100g-1 of catechin equivalent. Carotenoid identification of P. aculeate fruits are presented here by the first time and indicate that these fruits can be researched as source of bioactive substances, especially antioxidant and provitamin A carotenoids. A espécie Pereskia aculeata Mill. (ora-pro-nóbis) é uma cactácea nativa da América Tropical, cujas folhas apresentam elevado teor protEico. No Brasil, é encontrada desde o Estado da Bahia até o Rio Grande do Sul. A maioria dos estudos sobre ora-pro-nóbis concentra-se na caracterização química das folhas desta espécie. O objetivo foi identificar o perfil de carotenoides e avaliar o teor de polifenóis totais em frutos de P. aculeata. Os carotenoides foram determinados por CLAE-DAD (cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência - detector de arranjo de diodos), os fenólicos totais pelos métodos de Fólin-Ciocalteou e da vanilina. O trans-β-caroteno foi o principal carotenoide, seguido pelo α-caroteno, luteína, além de outros carotenoides minoritários. Foram encontrados 64,9 ± 1,1 mg.100g-1 de ácido gálico equivalente; 14,8 ± 0,2 mg.100g-1 de catequina equivalente. A identidade dos carotenóides presentes em frutos de P. aculeata está sendo apresentada pela primeira vez e indica que estes frutos devem ser pesquisados como fontes de substâncias bioativas, especialmente de carotenóides com atividades antioxidante e pró-vitamina A.

This work describes the evaluation of the effect of saponification process in the carotenoid's content of three species of passion fruit. The results indicated the saponification of the extract was necessary to obtain cis-violaxanthin, trans-violaxanthin and β-cryptoxanthin hydrolyzed. These compounds were found in fruits of commercial P. edulis and yellow wild P. edulis. However, the extract saponification did not permitted to obtain free carotenes in fruits of wild purple P. edulis and P. setacea, and to trans-violaxanthin of P. cincinnata, therefore saponification was not indicated in the carotenoid analysis of these three accessions of passion fruit.

O objetivo foi avaliar, por HPLC, a composição qualitativa e quantitativa de carotenoides em maracujás do cerrado. Frutos procedentes de acessos nativos de quatro espécies (Passiflora cincinnata, P. nitida, P. setacea e P. edulis) foram analisados, utilizando, como referência, o maracujá-amarelo comercial (P. edulis). As polpas de maracujá apresentaram neoxantina, violaxantina, cis-violaxantina, anteraxantina, luteína, zeaxantina, β-criptoxantina, poli-cis-caroteno, prolicopeno, cis-ζ-caroteno, trans-ζ-caroteno, trans-β-caroteno, 13-cis-β-caroteno e fitoflueno. Em geral, os teores de carotenoides entre as espécies e entre os acessos da mesma espécie foram significativamente diferentes. A espécie P. edulis apresentou o maior número de carotenoides, com diferença entre os acessos. Em um acesso de P. edulis comercial, foi encontrado o trans-β-caroteno como o carotenoide principal (7,8±0,8 µg g-1) e no outro o trans-ζ-caroteno (11,4±0,4 µg g-1). Dois acessos de P. edulis nativos do Cerrado apresentaram cis-ζ-caroteno como carotenoide majoritário (6,28±0,15 µg g-1 e 12,1±0,7 µg g-1, casca amarela e roxa, respectivamente). O perfil de carotenoides em frutos de espécies de maracujá apresentou diversidade de composição, com potencial de uso para melhoramento genético para agregar maior valor ao produto e estimular o seu consumo. The objective was to evaluate by HPLC qualitative and quantitative carotenoids pulp composition of passion fruit. Fruits coming from native accessions of four Cerrado passion fruit species (Passiflora cincinnata, P. nitida, P. setacea and P. edulis) were analyzed using commercial passion fruit (P. edulis) as reference. Passion fruit pulps showed neoxanthin, violaxanthin, cis-violaxanthin, antheraxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, prolycopene, poli-cis-carotene, cis-ζ-carotene, trans-ζ-carotene, trans-β-carotene, 13-cis-β-carotene and phytofluene. In general, carotenoids content were significantly different among species and among accessions of the same species. P. edulis species showed greater number of carotenoids with differences among accessions. In one commercial passion fruit accession trans-β-carotene was the major carotenoid (7.8±0.8 µg g-1) and other was trans-ζ-carotene (11.4±0.4 µg g-1). Two accessions of P. edulis native from the Cerrado showed cis-ζ-carotene like the major carotenoid (6.28±0.15 µg g-1 and 12.1±0.7 µg g-1, yellow peel and purple peel, respectively). Characterization of carotenoids profile in passion fruit species fruits showed diversity of composition with potential use for genetic improvement to add greater value to product and encourage consumption.

Butia capitata is a palm tree, widely found in the Brazilian savanna. Their fruits are largely used by local communities to prepare juices, jellies and ice-creams. The main objective of this work was to determine the carotenoids profile of Butia capitata fruits and their provitamin A values. Total carotenoids content ranged from 11.1 to 43.9 μg.g-1; β-carotene was the predominant carotenoid (5.2-22.8 μg.g-1), followed by γ-carotene, phytoene, phytofluene, ζ-carotene, α-cryptoxanthin (or zeinoxanthin) and α-carotene. Provitamin A values varied from 50 to 200 RAE.100g-1. This result suggests that B. capitata pulp may be a good source of β-carotene and provitamin A. Butia capitata é uma palmeira largamente distribuída no cerrado brasileiro. Seus frutos são utilizados pelas comunidades locais para preparar sucos, geleias e sorvetes. O objetivo foi determinar o perfil de carotenoides e o valor pró-vitamina A dos frutos de Butia capitata. Os teores de carotenoides totais variaram entre 11,1-43,9 μg.g-1; o β-caroteno foi o carotenoide predominante (5,2-22,8 μg.g-1), seguido pelo γ-caroteno, fitoeno, fitoflueno ζ-caroteno, α-criptoxantina (ou zeinoxantina) e α-caroteno. Os valores de pró-vitamina A variaram entre 50-200 RAE.100g-1, sugerindo que a polpa de B. capitata pode ser uma boa fonte de pró-vitamina A.

Arachis hypogaea , known as the peanut, is native to South America. Peanut contains several active components including flavonoids, phenolic acids, phytosterols, alkaloids, and stilbenes. Some therapeutic effects have been reported for peanut seed extracts, such as antioxidative, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities. This paper aims to give an overview of the chemical composition, focusing on secondary metabolites, and of the biological activity of A. hypogaea, to stimulate new studies about species of the Arachis genus.

O canistel (P. campechiana) é uma fruta nativa da América Central e México, ainda pouco conhecida no Brasil. Apresenta uma polpa amarelo-alaranjada, rica em carotenoides, que tem despertado interesse como potencial de vitamina A. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o teor de carotenoides e o valor provitamina A na polpa de canistel, assim como os teores de umidade e lipídeos na polpa e na semente. Os carotenoides foram separados por cromatografia em coluna aberta. O conteúdo de carotenoides totais foi de 226 ± 4 μg/g. Violaxantina e neoxantina foram os carotenóides predominantes, somando 196 ± 5 μg/g. seguidos por zetacaroteno, betacaroteno 5,6-epóxido, betacaroteno e fitoflueno. A semente foi a parte do fruto que apresentou maior teor de lipídeos totais, com 4,6 ± 0,2 %, e a polpa, 0,61 ± 0,03 %. Os resultados indicam que o canistel apresenta teores de carotenóides totais muito elevados e pode ser considerado uma boa fonte de provitamina A (59 ± 6 RAE/100g), se comparado com outras frutas normalmente consumidas. No entanto, os principais carotenoides encontrados em sua polpa são destituídos de atividade provitamina A.Canistel (Pouteria campechiana) is a native fruit from Central America and Mexico. This fruit still not known in Brazil, presents an orange-yellow pulp rich in carotenoids, which has attracted interest as a potential source of vitamin A. The purpose of this study was to determine the carotenoids content and pro-vitamin A values in the pulp of canistel, as well as the percentage of moisture and lipids in the pulp and seeds. Carotenoids were separated by open column chromatography. The content of total carotenoids was 226 ± 4 μg/g. Violaxantin and neoxantin were the predominant carotenoids with 196 ± 5 μg/g followed by zeta-carotene, beta-carotene 5,6-epoxide, beta-carotene and phytofluene. The seeds presented higher levels of total lipids with 4.6 ± 0.2 %, while pulp had 0.61 ± 0.03 % of total lipid. These results indicate that this fruit presented very high levels of total carotenoids when compared to other fruits regularly consumed, and may be considered as a good source of pro-vitamin A (59 ± 6 RAE/100g). However, the main carotenoids found in Canistel have no pro-vitamin A activity.

No mundo, existem mais de 580 espécies de maracujazeiros, grande parte nativa da América Tropical e Subtropical, principalmente no Brasil. Os programas de melhoramento utilizam uma parte pequena dos recursos genéticos disponíveis, já que o potencial deste material geralmente não está suficientemente caracterizado. O objetivo deste trabalho foi a caracterização do teor de lipídios e do perfil de ácidos graxos presentes nas sementes de 03 espécies nativas silvestres de maracujás (Passiflora cincinnata, P. setacea e P. nitida), empregando o maracujá comercial (P.edulis) como referência. Os lipídios totais foram extraídos com éter de petróleo em extrator tipo Soxhlet. O perfil dos ésteres metílicos foi caracterizado por cromatografia a gás, usando detector de ionização de chama. A espécie P. setacea apresentou o maior teor de óleo (31,2-33,5%), seguida por P. nitida (29,5-32,3%) e P. cincinnata (16,7-19,2%). O óleo de P. setacea apresentou 64,7% de ácido linoleico, 19,7% de oleico e 10,2% de ácido palmítico; o óleo de P. nitida apresentou os ácidos mirístico (0,6%), palmítico (15,3%), palmitoleico (2,0%), oleico (24,8%), linoleico (51,7%) e um ácido graxo incomum às outras espécies de Passiflora, o láurico (0.4%); já o óleo de P. cincinnata apresentou os ácidos oleico (11,0%), palmítico (10,2%) e linoleico (74,3%). O ácido linoleico foi predominante nas três espécies estudadas. Todas as espécies apresentaram ácido vacênico (0,3-0,6%), descrito pela primeira vez no gênero Passiflora. There are more 580 species of passion fruit in world, majority native from America Tropical and Subtropical, especially Brazil. Breeding programs use small part of genetic resources available, because potential of this material is not sufficiently characterized. The objective of this work was the characterization of lipids content and fatty acids profile present in the seeds of 03 species of wild native passion fruit (Passiflora cincinnata, P. setacea e P. nitida) using commercial passion fruit (P. edulis) as reference. Total lipids were extracted with petroleum ether in Soxhlet extractor. The profile of methyl esters was characterized by gas chromatograph using flame ionization detector. The seeds of P. setacea showed higher content of oil (31.2-33.5 %), followed by P. nitida (29.5-32.3 %) and P. cincinnata (16.7-19.2 %). The P. setacea oil presented 64.7% of linoleic, 10.2% of palmitic and 19.7% of oleic acid. P. nitida presented myristic (0.6%), palmitic (15.3%), palmitoleic (2.0%), oleic (24.8%), linoleic (51.7%) and a not common acid in other Passiflora specie, the lauric acid (0.4%); P. cincinnata showed oleic (11.0%), palmitic (10.2%) and linoleic acid (74.3%). Linoleic acid was predominant in all evaluated species. All species presented vaccenic acid (0.3-0.6 %), described for first time in Passiflora genus.

No mundo, existem mais de 580 espécies de maracujazeiros, grande parte nativa da América Tropical e Subtropical, principalmente no Brasil. Os programas de melhoramento utilizam uma parte pequena dos recursos genéticos disponíveis, já que o potencial deste material geralmente não está suficientemente caracterizado. O objetivo deste trabalho foi a caracterização do teor de lipídios e do perfil de ácidos graxos presentes nas sementes de 03 espécies nativas silvestres de maracujás (Passiflora cincinnata, P. setacea e P. nitida), empregando o maracujá comercial (P.edulis) como referência. Os lipídios totais foram extraídos com éter de petróleo em extrator tipo Soxhlet. O perfil dos ésteres metílicos foi caracterizado por cromatografia a gás, usando detector de ionização de chama. A espécie P. setacea apresentou o maior teor de óleo (31,2-33,5%), seguida por P. nitida (29,5-32,3%) e P. cincinnata (16,7-19,2%). O óleo de P. setacea apresentou 64,7% de ácido linoleico, 19,7% de oleico e 10,2% de ácido palmítico; o óleo de P. nitida apresentou os ácidos mirístico (0,6%), palmítico (15,3%), palmitoleico (2,0%), oleico (24,8%), linoleico (51,7%) e um ácido graxo incomum às outras espécies de Passiflora, o láurico (0.4%); já o óleo de P. cincinnata apresentou os ácidos oleico (11,0%), palmítico (10,2%) e linoleico (74,3%). O ácido linoleico foi predominante nas três espécies estudadas. Todas as espécies apresentaram ácido vacênico (0,3-0,6%), descrito pela primeira vez no gênero Passiflora.There are more 580 species of passion fruit in world, majority native from America Tropical and Subtropical, especially Brazil. Breeding programs use small part of genetic resources available, because potential of this material is not sufficiently characterized. The objective of this work was the characterization of lipids content and fatty acids profile present in the seeds of 03 species of wild native passion fruit (Passiflora cincinnata, P. setacea e P. nitida) using commercial passion fruit (P. edulis) as reference. Total lipids were extracted with petroleum ether in Soxhlet extractor. The profile of methyl esters was characterized by gas chromatograph using flame ionization detector. The seeds of P. setacea showed higher content of oil (31.2-33.5 %), followed by P. nitida (29.5-32.3 %) and P. cincinnata (16.7-19.2 %). The P. setacea oil presented 64.7% of linoleic, 10.2% of palmitic and 19.7% of oleic acid. P. nitida presented myristic (0.6%), palmitic (15.3%), palmitoleic (2.0%), oleic (24.8%), linoleic (51.7%) and a not common acid in other Passiflora specie, the lauric acid (0.4%); P. cincinnata showed oleic (11.0%), palmitic (10.2%) and linoleic acid (74.3%). Linoleic acid was predominant in all evaluated species. All species presented vaccenic acid (0.3-0.6 %), described for first time in Passiflora genus.

O grande avanço obtido na produção agropecuária se deve, dentre outros fatores, a capacidade brasileira de incorporar e utilizar recursos genéticos. A Embrapa Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnologia é a empresa responsável pela conservação em longo prazo de germoplasma semente, conservados a -20 °C. Para garantir a qualidade do material conservado, minimizando o processo de deterioração, é necessário que se mantenham as condições adequadas de armazenamento, realizando o manejo correto do germoplasma. Os objetivos dessa pesquisa foram avaliar o efeito do teor de água nas sementes sobre a tolerância das mesmas ao armazenamento em temperaturas subzero de -20 °C e -196 °C, bem como associar essa tolerância aos aspectos fisiológicos e bioquímicos. Foi objetivo também verificar o efeito da umidificação prévia das sementes sobre a qualidade fisiológica das mesmas, após armazenamento. A qualidade das sementes foi avaliada pelos testes de condutividade elétrica, primeira contagem e contagem final do teste de germinação, e determinação do índice de peróxidos. Sementes de girassol podem ser secadas até 3,2% de teor de água em sílica gel ou em câmara de secagem e armazenadas a -20 °C ou -196 °C, sem perda de germinação e vigor. Menor deterioração das sementes, avaliada pelo índice de peróxidos, é observada em sementes armazenadas em nitrogênio líquido. O tratamento de umidificação deve ser utilizado na avaliação de plântulas na primeira contagem do teste de germinação e no teste de condutividade elétrica.

A palmeira Butia capitata var capitata produz o coquinho-azedo, fruto de odor agradável e penetrante, cuja polpa é aproveitada para a produção de um suco saboroso na região norte de Minas Gerais. As sementes apresentam uma amêndoa cuja exploração ainda é bastante limitada. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a composição da amêndoa do coquinho-azedo, visando a avaliar suas possibilidades de uso. Na amêndoa, a composição química (umidade, proteínas, lipídios, cinzas e fibras) foi determinada por métodos gravimétricos. Os teores dos principais minerais foram avaliados por espectrofotometria de emissão atômica com fonte de plasma indutivo, e a composição dos ácidos graxos presentes na gordura da semente foi determinada por cromatografia a gás. A amêndoa do coquinho-azedo apresentou 9,9 % de umidade e 57,8 % de lipídios totais, 25,8 % de fibra detergente neutro, 17,6 % de fibra detergente ácido e 1,6 % de cinzas em base seca. A gordura extraída da amêndoa de coquinho-azedo apresentou elevados teores de ácido láurico (42,1 %), que foi seguido pelo ácido oléico (16,9 %). Predominaram os ácidos graxos saturados (78,9 %), principalmente os de cadeia média (C6-C12). The Butia capitata palm tree produce a very aromatic fruit named "coquinho-azedo", which freeze pulp is frequently used to produce agreeable juice in north of Minas Gerais, Brazil. "Coquinho-azedo" kernel contains a nut that is not frequently explored. The purpose of the present study was the chemical characterization of "coquinho-azedo" nut to evaluate the possibilities of its use. The moisture, lipids, ash and fiber contents were determined by gravimetric methods. The mineral profile was characterized by inductively coupled plasma spectrophotometer and the fatty acids profile was characterized by gas chromatography. The coquinho-azedo nut presented 9,9 % of moisture, 57,8 % of total lipid, 25,8 % of neutral detergent fiber, 17,6 % of acid detergent fiber and 1,6 % of ash. The fat from coquinho-azedo nut presented high content of lauric acid (42,1 %), followed by oleic acid (16,9 %). The saturated fatty acids predominated (78,9 %), mainly the medium chain length fatty acids (58,3 %).

A palmeira Butia capitata var capitata produz o coquinho-azedo, fruto de odor agradável e penetrante, cuja polpa é aproveitada para a produção de um suco saboroso na região norte de Minas Gerais. As sementes apresentam uma amêndoa cuja exploração ainda é bastante limitada. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a composição da amêndoa do coquinho-azedo, visando a avaliar suas possibilidades de uso. Na amêndoa, a composição química (umidade, proteínas, lipídios, cinzas e fibras) foi determinada por métodos gravimétricos. Os teores dos principais minerais foram avaliados por espectrofotometria de emissão atômica com fonte de plasma indutivo, e a composição dos ácidos graxos presentes na gordura da semente foi determinada por cromatografia a gás. A amêndoa do coquinho-azedo apresentou 9,9 % de umidade e 57,8 % de lipídios totais, 25,8 % de fibra detergente neutro, 17,6 % de fibra detergente ácido e 1,6 % de cinzas em base seca. A gordura extraída da amêndoa de coquinho-azedo apresentou elevados teores de ácido láurico (42,1 %), que foi seguido pelo ácido oléico (16,9 %). Predominaram os ácidos graxos saturados (78,9 %), principalmente os de cadeia média (C6-C12).The Butia capitata palm tree produce a very aromatic fruit named "coquinho-azedo", which freeze pulp is frequently used to produce agreeable juice in north of Minas Gerais, Brazil. "Coquinho-azedo" kernel contains a nut that is not frequently explored. The purpose of the present study was the chemical characterization of "coquinho-azedo" nut to evaluate the possibilities of its use. The moisture, lipids, ash and fiber contents were determined by gravimetric methods. The mineral profile was characterized by inductively coupled plasma spectrophotometer and the fatty acids profile was characterized by gas chromatography. The coquinho-azedo nut presented 9,9 % of moisture, 57,8 % of total lipid, 25,8 % of neutral detergent fiber, 17,6 % of acid detergent fiber and 1,6 % of ash. The fat from coquinho-azedo nut presented high content of lauric acid (42,1 %), followed by oleic acid (16,9 %). The saturated fatty acids predominated (78,9 %), mainly the medium chain length fatty acids (58,3 %).

The objective of this study was to characterize for the first time polyphenols and DPPH (2-diphenyl-1-picryhydrazyl radical) antioxidant activity in commonly cultivated accessions of Phaseolus lunatus from an ex situ germplasm collection maintained by Embrapa, in Brazil. Furthermore, the study aimed to detect changes in total polyphenols, total flavonoids and condensed tannin for the same accessions after regeneration in a greenhouse. The results showed the diversity of the lima bean collection for phenolic compounds, which were strongly correlated with antioxidant activity. Lima beans accessions with the highest polyphenols and antioxidant activity were those with colored seeds. Conservation through cold storage of P. lunatus seeds in a cold chamber in the germplasm collection did not necessarily affect phenolic compounds. Variations observed in values after regeneration seeds may be mainly results of biotic and abiotic factors, including not only cultivar, but also environmental conditions. This study suggests that polyphenols in the lima beans present antioxidant activity, with possible beneficial effects for human health. It was expected that the potential of this tasty legume can be also used as a functional food crop and/or as a new ingredient in gastronomy. O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar, pela primeira vez, os polifenois totais e a atividade antioxidante por DPPH (2- difenil-1- picryhydrazyl radical) em acessos cultivados de Phaseolus lunatus L., provenientes de uma coleção de germoplasma mantida pela Embrapa, no Brasil, e detectar mudanças nos teores de polifenóis totais, flavonoides e taninos condensados, após a regeneração dos acessos em casa de vegetação. Os resultados mostraram a diversidade da coleção de fava para compostos fenólicos, que foram fortemente correlacionados com a atividade antioxidante. Os acessos de fava com os teores mais elevados de polifenóis e de atividade antioxidante foram aqueles com sementes coloridas. A conservação das sementes de P. lunatus na câmara fria da coleção de germoplasma não afetou, necessariamente, os polifenois, sendo que as variações após a regeneração das sementes parecem resultar principalmente de fatores bióticos e abióticos, incluindo não apenas cultivar, mas também condições ambientais. Este estudo sugeriu que os polifenóis da fava apresentam atividade antioxidante, com possíveis efeitos benéficos para a saúde humana. Esperamos que o potencial deste apetitoso legume também possa ser aplicado como alimento funcional e/ou como um novo ingrediente na gastronomia.

O ácido anacárdico, composto fenólico presente em pedúnculos de caju e em algumas plantas medicinais, vem sendo associado a uma série de atividades biológicas específicas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o teor deste composto em pedúnculos de cajueiro A. microcarpum e em oito clones de A. occidentale var. nanum disponíveis na região Nordeste do Brasil, avaliando, também, algumas características físico-químicas e sensoriais destes pedúnculos. Os pedúnculos do clone BRS 189 apresentaram os maiores teores de ácido anacárdico. Pedúnculos da espécie Anacardium microcarpum e pedúnculos de cajueiro anão precoce, clones END 189 e 183, Embrapa 50 e 51 e CCP 09 não diferiram significativamente dos pedúnculos procedentes do clone controle, CCP 076. Pedúnculos do clone CCP 1001 apresentaram os menores teores de ácido anacárdico. As análises físico-químicas e sensoriais confirmaram evidências de que os clones CCP 09 e 1001 não são apropriados para o consumo in natura.Anacardic acid, a phenolic compound present in cashew apple and in some medicinal plants, is being associated to some specific biological effects. The purpose of this work was to determine anacardic acid content in peduncles of A. microcarpum and eight clones of A. occidentale from Northeastern Brazil, evaluating some physical-chemical and sensory characteristics of these peduncles. Cashew apples from BRS 189 clone of early cashew tree presented the highest values of anacardic acid. Cashew apples from A. microcarpum and END 189, END 183, Embrapa 50, Embrapa 51 e CCP 09 clones of early cashew tree did not differ from control CCP 076 clone. Cashew apples from CCP 1001 clone presented the minor values of anacardic acid. Physical-chemical and sensory analyses showed evidence that CCP 09 and CCP 1001 clone are not appropriate to fresh consuption.

O ácido anacárdico, composto fenólico presente em pedúnculos de caju e em algumas plantas medicinais, vem sendo associado a uma série de atividades biológicas específicas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar o teor deste composto em pedúnculos de cajueiro A. microcarpum e em oito clones de A. occidentale var. nanum disponíveis na região Nordeste do Brasil, avaliando, também, algumas características físico-químicas e sensoriais destes pedúnculos. Os pedúnculos do clone BRS 189 apresentaram os maiores teores de ácido anacárdico. Pedúnculos da espécie Anacardium microcarpum e pedúnculos de cajueiro anão precoce, clones END 189 e 183, Embrapa 50 e 51 e CCP 09 não diferiram significativamente dos pedúnculos procedentes do clone controle, CCP 076. Pedúnculos do clone CCP 1001 apresentaram os menores teores de ácido anacárdico. As análises físico-químicas e sensoriais confirmaram evidências de que os clones CCP 09 e 1001 não são apropriados para o consumo in natura.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a composição química, o teor de vitamina C, o valor pró-vitamina A e o teor de compostos fenólicos totais na polpa do coquinho-azedo (Butia capitata var capitata). Umidade, lipídeos, cinzas e fibras foram determinados por métodos gravimétricos; os minerais foram determinados por espectrometria de emissão atômica com fonte de plasma indutivo; o valor pró-vitamina A foi calculado através do teor de carotenóides; a vitamina C foi determinada por titulação com diclorofenolindofenol; os compostos fenólicos foram determinados pelo método de Folin-Ciocalteou, empregando ácido gálico e ácido tânico como padrões, e pelo método da vanilina, empregando catequina como padrão. A polpa, se comparada com outras frutas normalmente consumidas, apresentou elevado teor de óleo (2,5%), de fibra dietética (7,0%), de pró-vitamina A (146, 2RAE 100g-1), de vitamina C (53mg 100g-1), de compostos fenólicos (210mg de catequina, equivalente 100g-1; 116mg de ácido tânico, equivalente 100g-1) e de potássio (516mg 100g-1). O coquinho-azedo apresentou elevado potencial para enriquecer a alimentação da população local, especialmente como fonte de fibras, pró-vitamina A, vitamina C e potássio, a exemplo do que já vem sendo feito na merenda escolar no norte de Minas Gerais. Estes resultados demonstram o elevado valor de produtos oferecidos pelos pequenos agricultores, respaldando a importância cultural da espécie e valorizando a manutenção da variabilidade no cerrado.The aim of this work was to measure the chemical composition and the vitamin A, vitamin C and total phenolics compounds of 'coquinho-azedo' pulp (Butia capitata var capitata). The moisture, lipids, ash and fiber contents were determined by gravimetric methods; the mineral profile was characterized by inductively coupled plasma spectrophotometer; the pro-vitamin A value was calculate through carotenoids measure; the vitamin C content was determined by dichlorophenolindophenol method; phenolic compounds were determined by Folin-Ciocalteou method, using gallic acid and tannic acid as standards, and by vanillin method, using catechin as standard. The 'coquinho-azedo' pulp, if compared with other fruits normally consumed, presented high content of oil (2,5%), dietetic fiber (7,0%), pro-vitamin A (146,2 RAE 100g-1), vitamin C (53mg 100g-1), phenolic compounds (210mg of catechin equivalent 100g-1 of pulp, by vanillin method; 116mg of tannic acid equivalent 100g-1 of pulp, by Folin-Ciocalteou method) and potassium (516mg 100g¹). The 'coquinho-azedo' presented high potential to enrich the food of local population, especially as a source of fiber, pro-vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium, as an example that has been happening in the meals for school children at the North of the state of Minas Gerais. These results show the high value of products supplied by small farmers, presenting the cultural importance of the Butia capitata var capitata and valuing the maintenance of the variability.

Fruits of Capsicum species (peppers) accumulate high amounts of ascorbic acid or vitamin C. C. chinense occurs in the Midwest and Northeast regions and the Amazon Basin (where its greatest genetic diversity is found). The objective of the present work was to quantify the vitamin C content in peppers of 22 accessions of C. chinense 'Habanero' from the Breeding Program of Embrapa Vegetable Crops. Vitamin C was extracted from mature fruits with TCEP-HCl (tris 2-carboxyethyl-phosphine hydrocloride) and its content determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Vitamin C content ranged from 54.1 to 129.8 mg/100 g. Accessions were divided into four heterogeneous groups of diversity. Vitamin C content of the first group varied between 116.2 and 129.8 mg/100 g; the second group ranged from 94.0 to 104.6 mg/100 g; the third group ranged from 76.7 to 87.5 mg/100 g; and the fourth group ranged from 54.1 to 66.6 mg/100 g. These results highlight the diversity of C. chinense collection in terms of vitamin C content. Os frutos de Capsicum possuem elevados teores de ácido ascórbico ou vitamina C. A pimenta (C. chinense) ocorre nas regiões Centro-Oeste e Nordeste e na Bacia Amazônica (onde está localizada a sua maior diversidade genética). O objetivo deste trabalho foi quantificar o teor de vitamina C em 22 acessos de C. chinense do grupo varietal 'Habanero', procedentes do programa de melhoramento genético da Embrapa Hortaliças. A vitamina C foi extraída de frutos maduros com TCEP-HCl (tris 2-carboxyethyl-phosphine hydrocloride) e os teores foram determinados por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). Os teores de vitamina C variaram entre 54,1-129,8 mg/100g. Foram formados, com base no teor de vitamina C, quatro grupos heterogêneos de diversidade. Os teores do primeiro grupo variaram entre 116,2-129,8 mg/100 g; o segundo variou entre 94,0-104,6 mg/100 g; o terceiro entre 76,7-87,5 mg/100 g; e o quarto entre 54,1-66,6 mg/100 g. Esses resultados evidenciam a diversidade dessa coleção de C. chinense para os teores de vitamina C.

To improve tannin assay in cashew apple, several parameters were examined, including (1) extraction solvents, (2) effects of water and boiling time on butanol acid reaction and (3) correlation between vanillin and butanol acid assay of tannin in cashew apples. The 50-70% acetone extracted the greatest amount of tannin from cashew apples. Concentrations of water in butanol reagents were adjusted and boiling time of butanol reaction was reduced at 15 min. Tannin of unripe cashew apples was purified on Sephadex LH-20, aiming to obtain tannin standard for butanol assay. The vanillin assay presented high correlation with the butanol acid assay.

To improve tannin assay in cashew apple, several parameters were examined, including (1) extraction solvents, (2) effects of water and boiling time on butanol acid reaction and (3) correlation between vanillin and butanol acid assay of tannin in cashew apples. The 50-70% acetone extracted the greatest amount of tannin from cashew apples. Concentrations of water in butanol reagents were adjusted and boiling time of butanol reaction was reduced at 15 min. Tannin of unripe cashew apples was purified on Sephadex LH-20, aiming to obtain tannin standard for butanol assay. The vanillin assay presented high correlation with the butanol acid assay.

A acerola (Malpighia glabra L.) é uma das principais fontes naturais de vitamina C e, também, excelente fonte de carotenóides. O potencial vitamínico destes pigmentos e sua possível associação com o processo de carcinogênese têm despertado grande interesse na química e estabilidade dos carotenóides em alimentos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do processo industrial de congelamento da polpa de acerola, praticado em pequena empresa do município de Fortaleza-CE, visando à manutenção da estabilidade dos carotenóides durante a estocagem da mesma. Os carotenóides foram determinados na polpa recém-processada não congelada (controle) e nas polpas congeladas em álcool -20ºC, estocadas por onze meses. Após quatro meses de estocagem, o conteúdo de beta-caroteno da polpa congelada apresentou redução significativa de 20%, em relação ao conteúdo da polpa-controle (7,09 µg/g), sem alteração significativa após esse período. A beta-criptoxantina (1,7µg/g de polpa) foi reduzida em 37% após o primeiro mês de estocagem, mantendo estes teores estáveis até o décimo primeiro mês, quando totalizou uma perda de 62%. O alfa-caroteno foi encontrado em pequenas quantidades. Quanto ao potencial vitamínico, a polpa-controle apresentou 1338 UI/100g, correspondendo, aproximadamente, a 25% das recomendações diárias de vitamina A /100g de polpa para uma pessoa adulta. Este potencial foi mantido até o terceiro mês de estocagem, quando houve uma redução de 20%, sem alteração significativa após este período.Acerola (Malpighia glabra L.) is one of the main natural sources of vitamin C and is an excellent source of carotenoids. Due to the vitamin potential of carotenoids, and their possible association with the carcinogenesis process, there is an increasing concern of the scientific community about their chemistry and stability in food. The objective of this research was to study the effect of commercial freezing and storage procedures on the carotenoid contents (in respect to the vitamin A potential) of acerola pulp. The acerola pulp was processed in a small industry in Fortaleza, CE. The carotenoid contents were determined on freshly processed pulp (control), on recently frozen pulp and over time on stored frozen pulp. The beta-carotene content of the frozen pulp has decreased 20% after four months of storage, when compared to the control content (7.09 µg/g), but no significant differences existed in the subsequent months. The beta-criptoxantin content (1.7 µg/g) decreased 37% in the first month of storage, remaining practically constant until eleventh month, when it totalized a 62% drop. The content of alpha-carotene in pulp was small. About the vitamin A potential, the control pulp showed 1338 UI/100g, corresponding to, approximately, 25% of the daily recommendation for this vitamin. After freezing, vitamin A potential was maintained until the third month of storage, when a significant drop of 20% was observed. No significant alterations were detected in the subsequent months until the end of the evaluation period.

As frutas nativas do cerrado têm despertado ultimamente interesse crescente, devido às suas propriedades nutricionais e funcionais aliadas ao potencial para agregar valor e conservar a biodiversidade deste bioma. Muitos compostos fenólicos apresentam capacidade antioxidante de neutralizar a atividade de radicais livres gerados no organismo, que estão associados a diversas doenças crônico-degenerativas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a eficiência de três soluções extratoras (acetona a 70 %, etanol a 95 % e metanol a 99,8 %) e determinar os teores de compostos fenólicos em 10 espécies de frutas nativas do cerrado, utilizando o método de Folin-Ciocalteou para compostos fenólicos totais e o método da vanilina para taninos condensados. A acetona a 70 % mostrou-se como o melhor solvente extrator de compostos fenólicos totais e taninos condensados em frutos de Pouteria gardneriana, Eugenia dysenterica, E. klostzchiana, E. punicifolia, Plinia edulis, Campomanesia sp., fenólicos totais de Brosimium gaudichaudii e taninos condensados de Jaracatia spinosa. O etanol a 95 % foi mais eficiente na extração de fenólicos totais de Jaracatia spinosa e taninos condensados de Brosimium gaudichaudii; o metanol a 99,8 % foi mais eficiente na extração de taninos condensados de Eugenia dysenterica. Os teores de compostos fenólicos totais variaram entre 90 e 327 mg de ácido gálico equivalente por 100g de polpa para as espécies E. dysenterica e E. punicifolia, respectivamente. Os teores de taninos condensados variaram entre 4 e 291 mg de catequina equivalente por 100 g de polpa para as espécies E. dysenterica e E. calcyna, respectivamente. As espécies de frutas do cerrado, avaliadas neste estudo, podem ser consideradas boas fontes de compostos fenólicos totais, sendo que a natureza específica dos diferentes tipos deve ser avaliada em estudos futuros. The native fruits from Brazilian savanna are arousing increasing interest due to their nutritional and functional properties combined with the potential to add value and conserve the biodiversity of this biome. Many phenolic compounds have antioxidant capacity to neutralize free radicals generated in the body that are associated with many chronic degenerative diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of three extraction solutions (acetone 70%, ethanol 95% and methanol 99.8 %) and determining the levels of phenolic compounds in 10 species of native fruits from Brazilian savanna, using the Folin-Ciocalteu method for total phenolic compounds and vanillin method for condensed tannins. Acetone 70 % proved to be the best solvent extractor for total phenolics and condensed tannins in fruits of Pouteria gardneriana, Eugenia dysenterica, E. klostzchiana, E. punicifolia, Plinia edulis, Campomanesia sp. and for total phenolics in Brosimium gaudichaudii and for condensed tannins in Jaracatia spinosa. The ethanol 95 % was more efficient in the extraction of total phenolics of Jaracatia spinosa and condensed tannins of Brosimium gaudichaudii. The methanol 99.8 % was more efficient in the extraction of condensed tannins of Eugenia dysenterica. The contents of phenolic compounds ranged between 90 and 327 mg of gallic acid equivalent per 100 g of pulp for the species of E. dysenterica and E. punicifolia respectively. The levels of condensed tannins ranged between 4 and 291 mg of catechin equivalent per 100 g of pulp for the species of E. dysenterica and E. calcyna respectively. Evaluated species of fruit from Brazilian savanna can be considered good sources of total phenolic compounds, although the specific nature of different types should be evaluated in future studies.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a composição química, o teor de vitamina C, o valor pró-vitamina A e o teor de compostos fenólicos totais na polpa do coquinho-azedo (Butia capitata var capitata). Umidade, lipídeos, cinzas e fibras foram determinados por métodos gravimétricos; os minerais foram determinados por espectrometria de emissão atômica com fonte de plasma indutivo; o valor pró-vitamina A foi calculado através do teor de carotenóides; a vitamina C foi determinada por titulação com diclorofenolindofenol; os compostos fenólicos foram determinados pelo método de Folin-Ciocalteou, empregando ácido gálico e ácido tânico como padrões, e pelo método da vanilina, empregando catequina como padrão. A polpa, se comparada com outras frutas normalmente consumidas, apresentou elevado teor de óleo (2,5%), de fibra dietética (7,0%), de pró-vitamina A (146, 2RAE 100g-1), de vitamina C (53mg 100g-1), de compostos fenólicos (210mg de catequina, equivalente 100g-1; 116mg de ácido tânico, equivalente 100g-1) e de potássio (516mg 100g-1). O coquinho-azedo apresentou elevado potencial para enriquecer a alimentação da população local, especialmente como fonte de fibras, pró-vitamina A, vitamina C e potássio, a exemplo do que já vem sendo feito na merenda escolar no norte de Minas Gerais. Estes resultados demonstram o elevado valor de produtos oferecidos pelos pequenos agricultores, respaldando a importância cultural da espécie e valorizando a manutenção da variabilidade no cerrado. The aim of this work was to measure the chemical composition and the vitamin A, vitamin C and total phenolics compounds of 'coquinho-azedo' pulp (Butia capitata var capitata). The moisture, lipids, ash and fiber contents were determined by gravimetric methods; the mineral profile was characterized by inductively coupled plasma spectrophotometer; the pro-vitamin A value was calculate through carotenoids measure; the vitamin C content was determined by dichlorophenolindophenol method; phenolic compounds were determined by Folin-Ciocalteou method, using gallic acid and tannic acid as standards, and by vanillin method, using catechin as standard. The 'coquinho-azedo' pulp, if compared with other fruits normally consumed, presented high content of oil (2,5%), dietetic fiber (7,0%), pro-vitamin A (146,2 RAE 100g-1), vitamin C (53mg 100g-1), phenolic compounds (210mg of catechin equivalent 100g-1 of pulp, by vanillin method; 116mg of tannic acid equivalent 100g-1 of pulp, by Folin-Ciocalteou method) and potassium (516mg 100g¹). The 'coquinho-azedo' presented high potential to enrich the food of local population, especially as a source of fiber, pro-vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium, as an example that has been happening in the meals for school children at the North of the state of Minas Gerais. These results show the high value of products supplied by small farmers, presenting the cultural importance of the Butia capitata var capitata and valuing the maintenance of the variability.

The objective of this research was to determine the levels of enrichment of vitamins B1, B2, B6 and B3 in different types and brands of enriched cookies. The chromatographic separation was performed in a C18 column with gradient elution and UV detection at 254 and 287 nm. The results show that only 5 of the 24 brands evaluated are in accordance with the Brazilian legislation with respect to the vitamin content declared on the labels. However, consumption of approximately 100-150 g of most of the brands supplies the recommended dietary intake for children and adults of the vitamins evaluated.

A acerola (Malpighia glabra L.) é uma das principais fontes naturais de vitamina C e, também, excelente fonte de carotenóides. O potencial vitamínico destes pigmentos e sua possível associação com o processo de carcinogênese têm despertado grande interesse na química e estabilidade dos carotenóides em alimentos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do processo industrial de congelamento da polpa de acerola, praticado em pequena empresa do município de Fortaleza-CE, visando à manutenção da estabilidade dos carotenóides durante a estocagem da mesma. Os carotenóides foram determinados na polpa recém-processada não congelada (controle) e nas polpas congeladas em álcool -20ºC, estocadas por onze meses. Após quatro meses de estocagem, o conteúdo de beta-caroteno da polpa congelada apresentou redução significativa de 20%, em relação ao conteúdo da polpa-controle (7,09 µg/g), sem alteração significativa após esse período. A beta-criptoxantina (1,7µg/g de polpa) foi reduzida em 37% após o primeiro mês de estocagem, mantendo estes teores estáveis até o décimo primeiro mês, quando totalizou uma perda de 62%. O alfa-caroteno foi encontrado em pequenas quantidades. Quanto ao potencial vitamínico, a polpa-controle apresentou 1338 UI/100g, correspondendo, aproximadamente, a 25% das recomendações diárias de vitamina A /100g de polpa para uma pessoa adulta. Este potencial foi mantido até o terceiro mês de estocagem, quando houve uma redução de 20%, sem alteração significativa após este período. Acerola (Malpighia glabra L.) is one of the main natural sources of vitamin C and is an excellent source of carotenoids. Due to the vitamin potential of carotenoids, and their possible association with the carcinogenesis process, there is an increasing concern of the scientific community about their chemistry and stability in food. The objective of this research was to study the effect of commercial freezing and storage procedures on the carotenoid contents (in respect to the vitamin A potential) of acerola pulp. The acerola pulp was processed in a small industry in Fortaleza, CE. The carotenoid contents were determined on freshly processed pulp (control), on recently frozen pulp and over time on stored frozen pulp. The beta-carotene content of the frozen pulp has decreased 20% after four months of storage, when compared to the control content (7.09 µg/g), but no significant differences existed in the subsequent months. The beta-criptoxantin content (1.7 µg/g) decreased 37% in the first month of storage, remaining practically constant until eleventh month, when it totalized a 62% drop. The content of alpha-carotene in pulp was small. About the vitamin A potential, the control pulp showed 1338 UI/100g, corresponding to, approximately, 25% of the daily recommendation for this vitamin. After freezing, vitamin A potential was maintained until the third month of storage, when a significant drop of 20% was observed. No significant alterations were detected in the subsequent months until the end of the evaluation period.

Avaliou-se a interferência de variações genéticas e climáticas nos teores de tanino de pedúnculos de cajueiro microcarpum e anão precoce, durante as safras de 2000 e 2001. Os pedúnculos de cajueiro anão precoce, clone CP-076 foram empregados como controle e os teores de tanino determinados pelo método da vanilina. Os teores de tanino dos pedúnculos do clone CP-09 mostraram-se significativamente superiores aos demais e os pedúnculos do clone CP-1001 apresentaram os menores teores. No ano 2001, os valores de tanino dos pedúnculos do clone CP-09 provenientes de Pacajus (CE - Brasil) foram 14% superiores aos obtidos para os pedúnculos procedentes de Paraipaba (CE). O ano de colheita, também, apresentou efeito significativo sobre os teores de taninos dos pedúnculos do clone CP-09, sendo os colhidos em 2000 cerca de 25% superiores aos do ano 2001. A precipitação pluviométrica, que foi mais intensa em Pacajus e no ano 2000, apresentou correlação positiva significativa com o teor de tanino, principalmente durante o período da maturação dos pedúnculos, quando esses compostos fenólicos são metabolizados. Concluiu-se que é possível obter pedúnculos de caju que apresentem composição química equilibrada, favorável à palatabilidade e às demandas do mercado. CASHEW APPLE TANNIN: EFFECT OF SOME GENETIC AND CLIMATIC VARIATIONS Abstract The interference of the genetic and climated variations in to cashew apple tannin content were evaluated, during 2000 and 2001 harvest. Cashew apples were harvested from microcarpum cashew tree and from seven clones of early cashew tree (var. nanum). Cashew apples of CP-076 early cashew tree, the most popular commercial clone at northeastern Brazil, were used as control. The tannin contents in cashew apples of CP-09 clone were significantly greater than other analyzed clones and the cashew apples of CP-1001 clone presented the minor tannin values. For 2001-harvest, the tannin values of CP-09 cashew apples from Pacajus, CE, were 14% higher than tannin values of Paraipaba, CE. The harvest year also presented significance in the tannin content of CP-09 cashew apples: tannin values obtained in 2000 year were about 25% upper than tannin values obtained in 2001 year. Pluviometric precipitation was more intensive at Pacajus and in 2000 year. It presented a significantly positive correlation with tannin content, mainly during ripening period of cashew apples, when these phenolic compounds are metabolized. It was concluded that is possible to obtain cashew-apple that presents equilibrated chemical composition, favorable to palatability and market demands.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi a determinação dos compostos fenólicos relacionados com a cor e com o sabor residual dos pedúnculos de clones de cajueiro anão precoce. As antocianinas e os taninos foram determinados por cromatografia em papel e, para identificação de lipídios fenólicos desenvolveuse metodologia simples e eficiente, utilizando cromatografia em camada delgada. As antocianidinas foram os principais flavonóides encontrados nas películas dos pedúnculos de caju. Dentre estes, a delfinidina foi encontrada em todos os clones, enquanto que a pelargonidina mostrouse intensa nos clones EMBRAPA 51 (vermelho) e CP 76 (avermelhado), não tendo sido encontrada no clone CP 06 (amarelo). A quercetina foi o único flavonol identificado, produzindo manchas intensas nos cromatogramas do clone CP 76. Nos sucos integrais foi encontrado um tanino condensado, associado ao sabor adstringente. No extrato etéreo dos mesmos sucos foi encontrado o ácido anacárdico, associado ao sabor residual, que permanece no suco mesmo após clarificação com gelatina. Abstract The objective of this research was the determination of phenolic compounds associated with color and residual taste in cashew apples through simple and accessible techniques. Anthocyanidins were the most abundant flavonoids found in cashewapple peels by paper chromatography. Delphinidin was found in all the clones, whereas pelargonidin was intense in EMBRAPA 51 (red) and CP 76 (reddish), and was not found in CP 06 (yellow). Only quercetin was identified as flavonol, producing intense spots in the chromatogram of clone CP 76. In all juices, condensed tannins associated with astringency were found. In ether extract of the same juices, the anacardic acid was detected, which may be associated to the residual taste, that remains in the juice even after clarification with gelatin.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as principais metodologias disponíveis para determinação de compostos fenólicos no suco de caju. Os métodos de Fólin-Denis, Fólin-Ciocalteau e Azul da Prússia (oxirredutométricos) apresentaram interferência da vitamina “C”. Os métodos da vanilina e da precipitação protéica, embora menos sensíveis, mostraram-se específicos para determinação de taninos no suco, sendo que o primeiro somou, como vantagem, a simplicidade.