Search

Two new sesquiterpenes, 10-methyl-isocampheren-10-ene-11-acid (1) and isocampheren-9-ene-10-ethylone (2) along with six known compounds (3–8) were isolated from the aerial parts of Bixa orellana. The structures of these compounds were determined by spectroscopic analyses. All of these isolates were obtained from this plant for the first time, and were tested for their cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory activities. Compound 6 showed cytotoxicity against two human tumor cell lines (A375 and NCI–H460). [Display omitted] • Two new sesquiterpenes were isolated from Bixa orellana. • The new compounds both have a bicyclo- [2.2.1] heptane skeleton. • Compound 6 (alphitolic acid) showed cytotoxicities against two human tumor cell lines (A375 and NCI–H460). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Productive restoration is intended to guarantee crop production whilst helping to conserve biodiversity and other ecosystem services, but the recovery of these ecosystem components and functions needs to be monitored. We used Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) to evaluate if an agroforestry system based on achiote trees (Bixa orellana L.) might help to conserve biodiversity by connecting areas under ecological restoration and forest remnants. We compared Darwin wasp diversity, abundance, richness, and composition in three ecosystem types: achiote orchards, areas under approximately 10 years of ecological restoration, and secondary forests, in southern Amazon of Ecuador. Insects were collected by means of Malaise trap, with three replicates for every ecosystem type. Diversity indices showed no significant differences among the three ecosystem types, but Ichneumonidae abundance and species richness did, and assemblages were significantly different among them. Of the 239 morphospecies collected, 11 were occurring in the three ecosystems. Monospecific agroforestry plantations, such as the achiote farms studied here, can be useful to help with recovery of ecosystem services and biodiversity when land is severely degraded, if they are managed with organic practices and they are close to the forests, but might not act as effective corridors for Darwin wasps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ultrasound acoustic power (4.6 to 20 W) and extraction time (0.5 to 5 min) were evaluated. • The more intense ultrasound conditions allowed redder colorants consistent with higher bixin content. • Specific energies (0.02 to 0.20 kJ/g) affected the microstructure and X-ray diffractograms. • The extraction condition did not impact the colorant solubility. The interest in natural colorants derived from sustainable processes has prompted research into obtaining bixin from defatted annatto (Bixa orellana L.) seeds. Bixin is a compound that imparts yellow-orange-red coloration, known for its high biodegradability, low toxicity, and wide industrial applicability. Meanwhile, high-intensity ultrasound (HIUS) technology has emerged as a promising method for extracting natural colorants, offering higher yields through shorter processes and minimizing thermal degradation. Although some studies have demonstrated the efficiency of HIUS technology in bixin extraction, research on the effects of acoustic cavitation on the properties of the colorant remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the influence of HIUS-specific energy levels (0.02, 0.04, 0.12, and 0.20 kJ/g) on the chemical, physical, and morphological characteristics of annatto extracts containing bixin and geranylgeraniol. Single-step extractions of bixin using ethanol as a solvent were evaluated at various acoustic powers (4.6, 8.5, 14.5, and 20 W) and extraction times (0.5, 1, 3, and 5 min) to determine their impact on the yield of natural colorant extraction. Increasing the acoustic power from 4.6 to 20 W and extending the extraction time from 0.5 to 5 min resulted in higher yields of natural colorant, likely due to the effects of acoustic cavitation and increased heat under more intense conditions. However, elevated levels of mechanical and thermal energy did not affect the chemical properties of the colorant, as indicated by UV–Vis and FTIR spectra. Conversely, higher specific energies yielded colorants with a more intense red hue, consistent with increased bixin content, and altered the microstructure and physical state, as observed in X-ray diffractograms. Nevertheless, these alterations did not impact the solubility of the colorant. Therefore, employing a cleaner extraction procedure aided by one-step ultrasound facilitated the recovery of natural colorants and contributed to the biorefining of annatto seeds, enabling the production of a rich geranylgeraniol colorant through a sustainable approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the purification of Bixa orellana L. leaf lectin (BoLL) and the evaluation of its antimicrobial activity and in vivo toxicity. BoLL was isolated from saline extract of leaves through protein precipitation with ammonium sulfate (60% saturation) followed by ion exchange (CM-Sephadex) and size exclusion (Sephadex G-75) chromatographies. The lectin was characterized by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under denaturing conditions (SDS-PAGE), stability towards heating and pH variation, as well as influence of ions on its hemagglutinating activity (HA). HA inhibition assay by different carbohydrates and glycoproteins was also performed. The antimicrobial activity of BoLL was investigated against pathogens for humans and plants. In vivo acute toxicity in mice was assessed using a dose of 100 mg/kg per os or i.p. BoLL was isolated with high specific HA (purification fold: 53.89) and showed a single 19-kDa polypeptide band in SDS-PAGE. BoLL SHA increased in the presence of 20 mM Mg2+ ions, was resistant to heating at 100 °C, and stable at acidic pH range. HA inhibition was detected especially by glycoproteins, but also by monosaccharides. BoLL showed bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects against Escherichia coli [minimum inhibitory (MIC) and bactericidal (MBC) concentrations of 400 and 800 μg/mL, respectively] and Staphylococcus aureus (MIC and MBC: 400 μg/mL), as well as bacteriostatic effect against Bacillus megaterium and Micrococcus luteus (MIC: 18.2 and 800 μg/mL, respectively). No changes were observed in hematological, biochemical, and behavioral parameters in the acute toxicity test. However, animals treated with BoLL at 100 mg/kg per os or i.p. showed histopathological alterations in the liver, spleen, and kidneys. In conclusion, our data add new biotechnological value for B. orellana leaves, since they contain a thermostable lectin with antibacterial activity, which stimulate future studies aiming at its biomedical application. However, caution should be considered in future studies due to some signs of toxicity in mice. • A protocol for purification of a lectin from Bixa orellana leaf (BoLL) was defined. • BoLL showed a single 19-kDa polypeptide band in SDS-PAGE. • Hemagglutinating activity of BoLL increased in the presence of Mg2+ ions, was resistant to heating at 100 °C, and stable at acidic pH range. • BoLL showed bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects • BoLL (100 mg/kg per os or i.p.) did not cause the death of Swiss mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Green synthesis of TiO 2 nanoparticles using natural Bixa orellana seed extract as capping and stabilizing agent. • Extensive enhancement in efficiency of DSSC with the use of as synthesized G-TNP compared to conventionally synthesized TiO 2. • Current conversion efficiency 3% achieved with use of G-TNP photoanode. Mesoporous anatase TiO 2 nanoparticles are the best photoanode materials for high performance DSSC. Chemical and physical methods used for the preparation of TiO 2 nanoparticles suffer with environment related issues e.g. use of toxic solvents, hazardous by-products and consumptions of high energy. We have synthesized mesoporous anatase TiO 2 nanoparticles from Titanium (IV) butoxide solution using Bixa orellana seed extract and further used it for making DSSC photoanode. The method offers environment friendly, cheaper and efficient DSSC. Structure, morphology, size and porosity of TiO 2 nanoparticles were characterized using XRD, SEM, TEM and N 2 sorption measurements. The amount of dye loading by TiO 2 was obtained using desorption technique which revealed much higher dye loading for the plant seed grown nanoparticles (G-TNP). TNP and G-TNP demonstrated photovoltaic conversion efficiencies 1.03% and 2.97% respectively. This study therefore demonstrates that the synthesized mesoporous anatase TiO 2 naoparticles can serve as promising photoanode materials for DSSC applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are establishing themselves as an important class of nanomaterials due to their exceptional physicochemical properties and wide range of applications. Due to their affordability, lack of toxicity, and strong biocompatibility, ZnO NPs find extensive use in the field of biomedicine. ZnO NPs are promising in biomedicine, especially for their ability as anticancer and antimicrobial agents. The ecologically sustainable preparation of metallic NPs using different plant extracts is a viable alternative to more conventional synthesis methods. The present study investigates the effects of changing the physical conditions on ZnO NPs synthesis from Bixa orellana (B. orellana) extract using the precipitation method. Confirmation and characterization of the ZnO NPs were achieved by analytical techniques. EDS results verified that highly pure ZnO NPs were synthesized. X-ray diffraction analysis verified the crystal nature of the synthesized NPs and their crystalline particle size of 82.66 nm. The XRD graphs strongly indicate the formation of wurtzite ZnO due to the presence of the (1 0 0), (0 0 2), and (1 0 1) planes. The antibacterial activity was assessed through the utilization of agar disc diffusion. The findings revealed that ZnO NPs exhibited significant efficacy in inhibiting the growth of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The zone of inhibition with the greatest diameter (22 mm) was reported for the bacterial strain B. cereus. The present investigation provides evidence that B. orellana leaves extract is capable of producing ZnO NPs, which play a crucial role in its antibacterial action. Additional investigation is necessary to validate the role of diverse phytochemicals in the synthesis of ZnO NPs and their applications in diverse fields such as agriculture, cosmetics, food, and healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) coupled to low-pressure solvent extraction (LPSE) was studied for producing tocotrienols-rich oil and bixin-rich extract from annatto seeds. In the SFE step using CO2, 2.90 ± 0.01 g oil/100 g seeds was obtained, which was composed of 14.85 wt.% δ-tocotrienol and 2.06 wt.% γ-tocotrienol. In the LPSE step using ethanol, 11.3 ± 0.6 g extract/100 g defatted seeds was obtained, which was composed of 30 wt.% bixin. The process integration was also evaluated in the economic viewpoint with the objective to show its feasibility in different scenarios, which included different purchasing costs of seeds, costs of plants, processing times in the SFE step, bed height to internal diameter ratios in the SFE step, solvent type in the LPSE step, and selling prices of oil and extract fractions. Among 64 scenarios assessed, the more promising one provided values of cost of manufacturing (COM) of US$ 336.96/kg oil and US$ 12.05/kg bixin extract, payback time of 0.26 year, return on investment of 389.7% and gross margin of 66.5%. For a 100 L scale plant, 4968 kg oil and 7643 kg bixin can be recovered per year using approximately 220 tons of seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Bixa orellana (B. Orellana) is a frequently utilized plant that has grown in significance in pharmaceutical applications. The leaves extract of B. orellana was used in the current study for preliminary phytochemical analysis in terms of both quantitative and qualitative, which indicates the presence of phenols, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Furthermore, the extract demonstrated antifungal activity at 30 mm zone of clearance against Candida albicans and antibacterial activity at 16 mm zone of clearance against Bacillus nakamuria by well diffusion method against different strains. The plant extract showed a MIC of 20 µg/mL and MBC of 157.11 µg/mL against E. coli by ELISA and broth dilution method, respectively. To evaluate the phytochemicals in the extract, further purification of the extract by TLC, column chromatography, and component analysis by GC–MS, which reported 18 components, and UV spectrum were performed. A number of therapeutic applications for the extract were observed, including antidiabetic activity (anti-glucosidase) of 98.34% inhibition at 100 µg/mL, anti-lipase of 100% inhibition at 100 µg/mL, and anti-amylase activity of 100% inhibition at 100 µg/mL, antioxidant activity (anti-DPPH activity) of 59.74% inhibition at 100 µg/mL, anthelmintic at 1 min by 1000 µg/mL, antifibrinolytic at 20 secs by 1000 µg/mL and cytotoxic activity against A549 lung cell lines, wherein, the cell viability was below 40 % at the highest dose (100 µg/mL), with an IC 50 value of 39.9 µg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was undertaken to analyse the effect of short-term UV-B and UV-C radiations in provoking carotenoid biosynthesis in Bixa orellana . Seeds of B . orellana were germinated and exposed to the short term UV pre-treatment under controlled environmental condition for 5 days. The UV treated young seedlings response in pigment contents; antioxidant enzyme activity and mRNA gene expression level were analysed. The pigment content such as chlorophyll was increased in both UV-B and UV-C treated seedlings, but the total carotenoid level was decreased when compared to the control seedlings this can be attributed to the plant adaptability to survive in a stressed condition. The β-carotene level was increased in UV-B, and UV-C treated young seedlings. No significant changes have occurred in the secondary pigment such as bixin and ABA. The activity of the antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase was significantly increased in UV-B treated seedlings when compared to the UV-C treated seedlings and control. The mRNA expression of the genes involved in bixin biosynthesis pathways such as DXS , PSY , PDS , LCY - β , LCY - ε , CMT , LCD , ADH and CCD genes showed different expression pattern in UV-B and UV-C treated young seedlings. Further we analysed the gene co-expression network to identify the genes which are mainly involved in carotenoid/bixin biosynthesis pathway. Form our findings the CCD , LCY , PDS , ZDS and PSY showed a close interaction. The result of our study shows that the short term UV-B and UV-C radiations induce pigment content, antioxidant enzyme activity and different gene expression pattern allowing the plant to survive in the oxidative stress condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biosynthesis of metallic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has gained much interest and offers an attractive alternate to physical and chemical approaches. In recent year several safe, easy, cost-effective, reproducible, and environmentally friendly synthesis approaches for silver nanoparticles have been developed. In this research work, a simple, cheap, and unexplored method was applied on green synthesis of AgNPs using secondary metabolites extracted from Bixa orellana seeds. The seeds are rich of flavonoids and phenolic compounds which presumably responsible for the fast reduction and stabilization of silver ion into silver nanoparticles. The biosynthesis process is very likely to be able to reduce silver ions under simple physiological conditions. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) that was appeared at 420 nm in UV–vis spectrum, had confirmed the formation of AgNPs. Moreover, the functional groups in secondary metabolite that act as reducing, capping and stabilizing agents for silver nanoparticles, are identified by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. An X-ray diffraction analysis generated four peaks for Bixa orellana seed extract mediated AgNPs positioned at 2θ angles of 38.1°, 44.2°, 64.6°, and 77.5° corresponding to crystal planes (1 1 1), (2 0 0), (2 2 0), and (3 1 1). Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images confirmed the formation of nanosized silver particles. The z-average of the synthesized particles measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS) was found to be 92.9 nm. AgNPs synthesized exhibited remarkable antioxidant activity, antibacterial and antiproliferative activity against human breast (MCF-7) cell line. On the basis of our results, we conclude that biologically synthesized AgNPs exhibited favorable characteristics and have the potential to be used in biomedical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural dyes with highly delocalized π-electron systems are considered as promising organic materials for nonlinear optical applications. Among these dyes, Bixa Orellana dye with extended π-electron delocalization is one of the most attractive dyes. Bixa Orellana dye-doped Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) thin films were prepared through spin coating process for linear and nonlinear optical properties investigation. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to evaluate the roughness of the thin films. The optical constants n and k were evaluated by ellipsometric spectroscopy. The refractive index had a maximum of about 1.456 at 508.5, 523.79 and 511.9 nm, while the maximum of k varies from 0.070 to 0.080 with the thickness. The third order nonlinear optical properties of the hybrid Bixa Orellana dye-PMMA polymer were investigated under 30 ps laser irradiation at 1064 nm with a repetition rate of 10 Hz. In particular the third-order nonlinear susceptibility has been determined by means of the Maker Fringes technique. The nonlinear third order susceptibility was found to be 1.00 × 10 −21 m 2 V −2 or 0.72 × 10 −13 esu. Our studies provide concrete evidence that the hybrid-PMMA composites of Bixa dye are prospective candidates for nonlinear material applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural dyes are receiving increasing attention from researchers and manufacturers, given its perceived eco-friendly nature. Yet, adjunct agents known as mordants that help bond the molecules of the fabric being dyed and the colorant used to dye it are often toxic. There is scant published information describing the dyeing potential and toxicity of colorant-bearing plants and the dye uptake with respect to the mordant treatments. A preliminary survey based on a range of sources of information showed that of the Yucatan peninsula harbors 23 plants showing dyeing properties. Four of them ( Justicia spicigera , Bixa orellana , Bougainvillea glabra and Rhoe discolor ) were selected to extract their natural dyes, which were chemical and toxically characterized. B. orellana was successfully employed to dye the fabric, viz. ordinary cotton cloth, manta. The dye baths without mordant only present low toxicity, the J . spicigera and B . glabra dyes being the most toxic. The B . orellana dye was less toxic, although its toxicity is increased when mordants are used. Regarding color performances of the dyed fabrics, mordanting influenced the depth of the shades, improving dyeing and light fastness. Nevertheless, mordants had no significant effects on color values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A process to obtain tocotrienols from annatto seeds was studied in a supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) system containing two 1 L extractor vessels with height ( H B ) to internal diameter ( D B ) ratios of 7.1 (E-1) and 2.7 (E-2). Pseudo continuous operation of the SFE system was validated by producing clove volatile oil at 40 °C and 15 MPa. To obtain tocotrienols, the system was operated in pseudo continuous mode at 40 °C, 20 MPa and CO 2 flow rate of 20.7 g/min. The extraction time, from a technical perspective, was set to 60 min, according to kinetic parameters obtained from an overall extraction curve (OEC) with processing time of 360 min. OECs were initially measured in batch mode (BM) and the kinetic parameters for the constant extraction rate (CER) period were determined to be lengths of the CER period ( t CER ) equal to 43 ± 1 and 42 ± 2 min for E-1 and E-2, respectively; mass transfer rates ( M CER ) of 0.22 ± 0.01 g/min for both E-1 and E-2; and total yields ( R CER ) of 50 ± 1 and 49 ± 1 g of extract/100 g of extractable mass for E-1 and E-2, respectively. No differences were observed between each group of kinetic parameters ( t CER ; M CER ; R CER ) obtained in BM. Following the measurement of OECs, the SFE system was operated in pseudo continuous mode for four extraction stages of 60 min each with the extractors organized in parallel. This organization improved the productivity of the process. We also proposed the integration of SFE with low-pressure solvent extraction (LPSE) using water and ethanol as solvents to remove bixin from the defatted annatto seeds. LPSE conditions were: 60 °C and solvent mass to feed mass ratio ( S/F ) of 8 g solvent/g annatto for ethanol and 50 °C and S/F of 8 g solvent/g annatto for water. LPSE assays were performed in an agitated bed over a 95 min time period. Using partially defatted annatto seeds as the feedstock for LPSE resulted in increased bixin extraction. LPSE with ethanol was found to increase the bixin content in the extract. Thus, the proposed process integration appears to be useful, mainly due to three aspects: (1) the initial removal of the oil layer via supercritical CO 2 favors bixin extraction, (2) LPSE is a low-cost methodology for extracting bixin and (3) the cost of raw material in the second step is null. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Norbixin (NBIX) inhibits human LDL oxidation in vitro. • NBIX reduces triglycerides and increases HDL levels of atherogenic rabbits (AR) • NBIX reduces oxidized LDL and autoantibodies levels in AR. • NBIX inhibits lipid and protein oxidation in the aortic tissue of AR. • NBIX counteracts changes in endogenous antioxidant defense systems of AR. We hypothesized that norbixin, which is a carotenoid used as an orange/red natural food coloring additive, has anti-atherogenic properties. An in vitro oxidation assay with human LDL and a rabbit model of atherosclerosis were used to test this hypothesis. Norbixin inhibited the oxidation of isolated human LDL in a concentration-dependent manner. In the in vivo assay, rabbits were fed with a regular chow (control) or an atherogenic diet (0.5% cholesterol) alone or supplemented with norbixin (10, 30 or 100 mg/kg b.w.) for 60 days. Norbixin supplementation (30 and 100 mg/kg b.w.) increased HDL levels and reduced triglyceride levels and the atherogenic index of rabbits. This effect was associated with the decrease of serum levels of oxidized LDL, oxidized LDL antibodies and aortic tissue levels of lipid and protein oxidation in the atherogenic rabbits supplemented with norbixin. Atherogenic diet increased enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and thioredoxin reductase-1) and non-enzymatic (non-protein thiol groups content) antioxidant defense systems in the aortic tissue but reduced the activity of paraoxonase-1 in the serum. All these changes were prevented by norbixin supplementation (10, 30 and 100 mg/kg b.w.). These results suggest that norbixin has atheroprotective potential by improving serum lipid profile and preventing oxidative modifications of circulating LDL and aortic tissue. Norbixin may, therefore, be beneficial in the control of atherosclerosis risk factors and can be further investigated as a candidate to be used not only as a functional food ingredient but also for therapeutic applications and in the nutraceutical industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Bixin has no genotoxic effect in liver and colon cells by comet assay. [•] Bixin significantly reduced the DNA damage in hepatocytes. [•] Bixin not reduce the frequency of DNA damage in colon cells. [•] Bixin not suppress the formation of pre-neoplastic lesions in colon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis is an idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by tissue damage, diarrhea, anemia, and loss of body weight. Tissue damage occurs as a result of uncontrolled activation of the immune response and an increase in free radicals, which have a strong effect on the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease. The incidence and prevalence of this inflammatory disease continue to increase worldwide. Maceration of Bixa orellana leaves in palm wine is used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and hemorrhoids in the Adamaoua region of Cameroon. The present work evaluated the preclinical effects (ie, antioxidant, hematological, and histological activities) of the hydroethanolic extract of Bixa orellana leaves in an in vivo, rat acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis model. Thirty-six female rats weighing between 165 and 180 g were fasted for 18 hours and then anesthetized with ether. A dose of 1 mL acetic acid (5%) was administered rectally through a catheter in all rats except the normal control group, which received distilled water (1 mL) instead. Treatments began 48 hours after rectal administrations of acetic acid or water, and all animals were treated twice daily for 7 days. The normal control group and the colitis control group received PO distilled water (10 mL/kg), the positive control received orally loperamide (5 mg/kg, and the 3 test groups received orally the hydroethanolic extract of Bixa orellana at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, respectively. During treatment, the number of diarrheal stools and weight change were assessed. At the end of the treatment, the animals were put to death under ether anesthesia. Blood was collected postmortem for evaluation of hematological and antioxidant parameters. The abdomen was opened via a midline incision and the colon was removed and emptied of all contents to assess histological and antioxidant parameters. During treatment, the number of diarrheal stools was significantly decreased from day 3 in animals treated with 100 (P < 0.05), 200 (P < 0.05), and 400 (P < 0.01) mg/kg extract compared with the colitis control group. The change in body weight of all extract-treated rats decreased significantly from day 3 (–5.55%; P < 0.05) to day 8 (–13.80%; P < 0.01) compared with the normal control. In the colitis control, this change ranges from –6.15% on day 2 to –15.13% on day 8. Extract treatment with 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the number of lesions and the relative weight of the colon. The levels of red blood cells, neutrophils, and total white blood cells decreased in the colitis control group, whereas treatment with the extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg was associated with a significant increase in these hematological parameters. Catalase and superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione concentrations all increased significantly (P < 0.01) in blood and colon in all extract-treated animals, whereas levels of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide were significantly decreased (P < 0.01) compared with the colitis control animals. The hydroethanolic extract of Bixa orellana leaves had protective effects against acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats that was associated with inhibited production of free radicals believed to be responsible for oxidative stress, hematological disorders, and tissue damage in this animal model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Bixa orellana L. (annatto), from Bixaceae family, is a native plant of tropical America, which accumulates several carotenoids (including bixin and norbixin), terpenoids, tocotrienols and flavonoids with potential antioxidant activity. In the present study, the in vitro scavenging capacity of annatto seed extracts against reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) was evaluated and compared to the bixin standard. Annatto extracts were obtained using solvents with different polarities and their phenolic compounds and bixin levels were determined by high performance liquid chromatography coupled to diode array detector. All annatto extracts were able to scavenge all the reactive species tested at the low μg/mL range, with the exception of superoxide radical. The ethanol:ethyl acetate and ethyl acetate extracts of annatto seeds, which presented the highest levels of hypolaetin and bixin, respectively, were the extracts with the highest antioxidant capacity, although bixin standard presented the lowest IC50 values. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Bixin is commercially important and increasingly in demand as an apocarotenoid pigment derived from the seed coats of the tropical shrub Bixa orellana. It has been widely used in food and cosmetics for a very longer time. Recently, the biosynthetic pathway of bixin has been elucidated and three genes from B. orellana govern bixin synthesis from the precursor lycopene. These genes code for lycopene cleavage dioxygenase, bixin aldehyde dehydrogenase, and norbixin carboxyl methyltransferase, which catalyze the sequential conversion of lycopene into bixin. Based on available chemical data and by analogy to biosynthetic pathway for bixin, comparative genome sequence analysis has been carried out. We have identified and functionally characterized that bixin coding genes are not only present in Bixa, but also in Crocus and Vitis. Our chromatographic study based on TLC, FT-IR and GC–MS shows evidence of presence of bixin in the other two organisms. This is the first report and Crocus and Vitis could be an alternative and competitive source for natural bixin production. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Worldwide rapid spread of multi drug resistance among the community as well as healthcare associated bacterial infections has impaired the current antimicrobial therapy, warranting the search for other alternatives. The current study aimed to find the antibacterial activity of hydro-ethanolic extract of Bixa orellana , the seed of which is frequently used as a food supplement. Multidrug resistant strains isolated from various outbreaks and sporadic cases of infectious diseases in various parts of the country like A&N Islands, Karnataka, Assam and Odisha were included in the study. The plant extract was tested for minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay, synergistic activity, DNA damage, chemical constituent profiling using Gas Chromatography-Mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The zone of inhibition of the extract ranged from 13 to 25 mm and the MIC ranged from 512 to 2048 μg/mL against these pathogens. All the strains were initially resistant to ampicillin, however in combination with the plant extract, the MIC was reduced to 2–10 folds. DNA damage assay exhibited the cell damage capability against all these pathogens. The genotoxic effect of the plant extract was also established for the first time in the current study in B. orellana. GC–MS analysis of hydro-ethanolic extract from leaves of B. orellana showed the presence of 40 compounds which had not been previously reported from this plant. The present study demonstrates the antibacterial activity of a hydro-ethanolic extract from the leaves of B. orellana against multi-drug resistant pathogens alone and in combination with an antibiotic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Preliminary pharmacological studies were performed on the methanol extract of Bixa orellana L. (Bixaceae) leaves to investigate neuropharmacological, anticonvulsant, analgesic, antidiarrhoeal activity and effect on gastrointestinal motility. All studies were conducted in mice using doses of 125, 250 and 500mg/kg of body weight. In the pentobarbitone-induced hypnosis test, the extract statistically reduced the time for the onset of sleep at 500mg/kg dose and (dose-dependently) increased the total sleeping time at 250 and 500mg/kg dose. A statistically significant decrease in locomotor activity was observed at all doses in the open-field and hole-cross tests. In the strychnine-induced anticonvulsant test, the extract increased the average survival time of the test animals (statistically significant at 250 and 500mg/kg). The extract significantly and dose-dependently reduced the writhing reflex in the acetic acid-induced writhing test. Antidiarrhoeal activity was supported by a statistically significant decrease in the total number of stools (including wet stools) in castor oil-induced diarrhoea model. A statistically significant delay in the passage of charcoal meal was observed at 500mg/kg in the gastrointestinal motility test. The extract was further evaluated in vitro for antioxidant and antibacterial activity. It revealed radical scavenging properties in the DPPH assay (IC50 =22.36μg/ml) and antibacterial activity against selected causative agents of diarrhoea and dysentery, including Shigella dysenteriae. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Annatto (Bixa orellana L.) is a native species of the Neotropics. It is commercially grown for the high apocarotenoid pigment content in its seed coat, particularly bixin (BXN) (9′Z-6,6′-diapocarotene-6,6′-dioate). Bixin is a natural orange-red pigment used primarily as a coloring agent in dairy products, baked goods, vegetable oils, and drinks. Large-scale propagation of annatto is problematic because it is cross-pollinated, highly heterozygous, and has heterogeneous bixin content. Another drawback is dehiscence in dry capsules in high bixin content varieties. Previous research on B. orellana does not address the biochemical or molecular aspects of apocarotenoid content or procedures for artificial pollination of Mexican variants. In an initial effort toward genetic improvement, preliminary studies were done to begin developing procedures for artificial pollination of annatto, understand its reproductive biology, and investigate the bixin and carotenoid content in the seeds of variants selected based on flower and fruit morphological traits. In the state of Yucatan, Mexico; annatto begins flowering in September, but the optimum period for artificial pollination and fruit set is October and November. Under natural conditions an average of 32±5.3 seeds per fruit are produced. Pistil receptivity lasts approximately 4h and peaks between 08:00 and 12:00h. Based on in vitro germination, average pollen viability is about 86%, and pollen longevity declines by about 50% 24h after release from anther. Significant differences in carotenoids and bixin contents in mature seeds were observed between the studied annatto variants. The pink flower variant had the highest contents of both pigments, and one of the white flower variants (‘peruana verde’) had the lowest. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this work, equilibrium moisture data for Bixa orellana seeds at different temperatures and relative humidities were determined using the Thermoconstanter Novasina instrument. Since the majority of the sorption equilibrium equations presented in the literature are nonlinear, care should be taken in estimating their parameters, because in some situations, the least squares estimators may not be appropriate. Therefore, some procedures are available in the literature to validate the statistical properties of the least squares estimators of nonlinear models. In this work, the nonlinear measures are used to discriminate between five model equations that represent the sorption equilibrium isotherms of Bixa orellana seeds. Results show that the Halsey modified equation is the best one to describe the experimental data because it has nonsignificance bias and nonlinear measurement parameters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Increased human use of annatto (Bixa orellana L), a red yellow food colorant, demands generation of toxicity data. The toxic effects of annatto powder (bixin 27%) have been assessed following administration of a subacute regimen (4 weeks, 20 doses) in Wistar male and female rats. A full study with three dose levels was considered unnecessary since no sign of toxicity had been noted in a preliminary experiment with 1000 mg/kg body weight/day as was recommended by the OECD guideline. In this study, annatto administered by gavage at a dose level of 2000 mg/kg/day decreased male body weight gain, but had no effect on either food intake or food conversion efficiency. Haematological and plasma biochemical examination as well necropsy performed at the end of administration (29th day) and observation (43rd day) periods revealed no alterations related with annatto administration. Kidney apoptosis occurred in 20% treated female rats in restricted areas without proliferation or tubular segments modification. The precise nature of apoptosis was not investigated in the present study. These findings suggest that annatto was no toxic to the rat. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Bixin exerts sustained anti-allodynic effect in diabetic rats. • Bixin induces an antidepressant and anxiolytic-like effect in diabetic rats. • Bixin does not alter locomotor activity of diabetic animals. • Bixin significantly reduced the plasma glycated hemoglobin levels of diabetic rats. • Bixin restore oxidative stress indirect parameters in tissues of diabetic rats. Neuropathic pain, depression, and anxiety are common comorbidities in diabetic patients, whose pathophysiology involves hyperglycemia-induced increased oxidative stress. Bixin (BIX), an apocarotenoid extracted from the seeds of Bixa orellana , has been used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes and has been recognized by its antioxidant profile. We aimed to investigate the effect of the BIX over the mechanical allodynia, depressive, and anxious-like behaviors associated with experimental diabetes, along with its involved mechanisms. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were treated for 17 days (starting 14 days after diabetes induction) with the corresponding vehicle, BIX (10, 30 or 90 mg/kg; p.o), or INS (6 IU; s.c.). Mechanical allodynia, depressive, and anxious-like behavior were assessed by electronic Von Frey, forced swimming, and elevated plus-maze tests, respectively. Locomotor activity was assessed by the open field test. Blood glycated hemoglobin (HbA1) and the levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were evaluated on the hippocampus, pre-frontal cortex, lumbar spinal cord, and sciatic nerve. Diabetic animals developed mechanical allodynia, depressive and anxious-like behavior, increased plasma HbA1, increased LPO, and decreased GSH levels in tissues analyzed. Repeated BIX-treatment (at all tested doses) significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia, the depressive (30 and 90 mg/kg) and, anxious-like behaviors (all doses) in diabetic rats, without changing the locomotor performance. BIX (at all tested doses) restored the oxidative parameters in tissues analyzed and reduced the plasma HbA1. Thereby, bixin may represent an alternative for the treatment of comorbidities associated with diabetes, counteracting oxidative stress and plasma HbA1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The types of dyestuff that are used by tanneries generally vary depending on the product range needed along with the dictates of the fashion world. It is a fact that each tannery uses between 50 and 100 different types of dyestuffs. Leather industry primarily uses dyestuffs such as acid, basic, metal complex, reactive and sulfur dyes. Many of the synthetic dyes used for leather dyeing are difficult to degrade due to their complex structure and xenobiotic properties. Hence, there is a need for development of more degradable or natural materials for use as a coloring agent for leathers, which would eco benign. Thus, the present study aims at extraction of color from Bixa orellana seeds and employing the same in dyeing and finishing of leather. The leathers dyed and finished using the natural dye extract showed better coloring properties. It is the first time, where this material is reported for their use in leather processing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study aimed to evaluate the reduction of halitosis when using antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) with Bixa orellana extract and blue light-emitting diode (LED). Forty-four UNINOVE students or employees with a diagnosis of sulfide (H2S) ≥ 112 ppb in gas chromatography were selected. The patients were randomly divided in groups: Group 1 (n = 15): aPDT with annatto and LED; Group 2 (n = 14): tongue scraping; Group 3 (n = 15): tongue scraping and aPDT. For aPDT, a was Bixa orellana extract used in a concentration of 20 % w/v (Fórmula e Ação®, São Paulo, Brazil) on the tongue for 2 min, associated with a blue-violet LED (Valo Cordless Ultradent® Products, Inc., South Jordan, UT, USA) (395−480 nm). Six points were irradiated on the back of the tongue, at wavelength 395−480 nm for 20 s, energy of 9.6 J and radiant energy of 6.37 J/cm2 per point. The results were compared before, immediately after treatment and 7 days after. The Friedman test was used for the intragroup analysis and the Kruskal Wallis test for the intergroup analysis. In all groups, there was a difference between baseline and the value immediately after the treatment. In Groups 1 and 3, there was no difference between the baseline and the 7 days control. There was an immediate reduction of halitosis, but the reduction was not maintained after 7days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ethanolic extracts of the leaves and seeds of Bixa orellana showed a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity. The activity of the leaf extract was more pronounced. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]