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Two wild-growing Brassicaceae plants of Croatian origin, Aurinia leucadea (Guss.) K. Koch and Lepidium draba L., were investigated to uncover glucosinolates via GC/MS analysis of their degradation products. The main constituents of Aurinia leucadea (Guss.) K.Koch distillate were hex-5-enenitrile (28.8%) and but-3-enyl isothiocyanate (18.8%), while 4,5-epithiopentanenitrile (50%) and 5,6-epithiohexanenitrile (18.5%) were the main volatile compounds in autolysate. 4-(Methylsulfanyl)butyl isothiocyanate (96.4%) constituted almost the entire Lepidium draba L. distillate, while the autolysate was characterized by 4-(methylsulfinyl)butyl isothiocyanate (57.3%). So, regarding the glucosinolate degradation products, the main glucosinolates of A. leucadea were glucobrassicanapin and gluconapin, and of L. draba glucoerucin and glucoraphanin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moringa oleifera Lam. (M. oleifera) is a fast-growing and esculent plant with high nutritional and medicinal values. Traditionally, M. oleifera has been applied to treat anaemia, asthma, pain in joints, headaches, diarrhoea and so forth. Phytochemical studies have manifested that more than 300 components, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, organic acids, alkaloids, lignans, glucosinolates, carotenoids, proteins, fats, minerals, and so on, are present in different parts of M. oleifera. Simultaneously, M. oleifera has exhibited extensive notable pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, hypotensive, hepatoprotective, etc. Consequently, on the one hand, this work aims to comprehensively and holistically review the nutritional components, chemical constituents and pharmacological activities on various parts of M. oleifera, as well as its applications in functional food products and medicines. On the other hand, this work also looks forward to the new prospects and the future developments in the research of M. oleifera, and thus provides valuable insights for the follow-up and in-depth studies of this multifunctional tree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur is essential for the health of plants and is an indispensable dietary component for human health and disease prevention. Its incorporation into our food supply is heavily reliant upon the uptake of sulfur into plant tissue and our subsequent intake. Dietary requirements for sulfur are largely calculated based upon requirements for the sulfur-containing amino acids (SAA), cysteine and methionine, to meet the demands for synthesis of proteins, enzymes, co-enzymes, vitamins, and hormones. SAA are found in abundance in animal sources and are relatively low in plants. However, some plants, particularly cruciferous and allium vegetables, produce many protective sulfur-containing secondary metabolites, such as glucosinolates and cysteine sulfoxides. The variety and quantity of these sulfur-containing metabolites are extensive and their effects on human health are wide-reaching. Many benefits appear to be related to sulfur's role in redox biochemistry, protecting against uncontrolled oxidative stress and inflammation; features consistent within cardiometabolic dysfunction and many chronic metabolic diseases of aging. This narrative explores the origins and importance of sulfur, its incorporation into our food supply and dietary sources. It also explores the overarching potential of sulfur for human health, particularly around the amelioration of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, and subsequent chronic disease prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red and white cabbages (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. alba and rubra, respectively) are two of the most commercially valued vegetables in crucifers, well-recognized for their unique sensory and nutritive attributes in addition to a myriad of health-promoting benefits. The current review addressed the differential qualitative/quantitative phytochemical make-ups for the first time for better utilization as nutraceuticals and to identify potential uses based on the chemical makeup of both cultivars (cvs.). In addition, extraction methods are compared highlighting their advantages and/or limitations with regards to improving yield and stability of cabbage bioactives, especially glucosinolates. Besides, the review recapitulated detailed action mechanism and safety of cabbage bioactives, as well as processing technologies to further improve their effects are posed as future perspectives. White and red cabbage cvs. revealed different GLSs profile which affected by food processing, including enzymatic hydrolysis, thermal breakdown, and leaching. In addition, the red cultivar provides high quality pigment for industrial applications. Moreover, non-conventional modern extraction techniques showed promising techniques for the recovery of their bioactive constituents compared to solvent extraction. All these findings pose white and red cabbages as potential candidates for inclusion in nutraceuticals and/or to be commercialized as functional foods prepared in different culinary forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mustard is a plant that is eagerly cultivated by farmers, due to its mobility across agroclimatic conditions and its high yield. Mustard seeds have thus become a valuable source of many bioactive ingredients, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants (carotenoids, phenolic compounds, tocopherols). The increasingly popularity of natural ingredients in food creation and other industries has made mustard a material for creating new products. The mustard-infused foods developed here have improved properties over the controls. The most common improvements relate to microbiological safety, longer shelf life, slower lipid oxidation, higher protein content and overall better product acceptability. The high content of erucic acid in its seeds, as well as of glucosinolates, mean that mustard has not been widely used in the human food industry or as animal feed. Mustard varieties with reduced levels of erucic acid and glucosinolates are now available on the market. This literature review characterizes the bioactive ingredients present in mustard seeds and presents the already developed possibilities of using mustard seeds in food and as a health-promoting product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucosinolates and their metabolites from Brassicaceae plants have received widespread attention due to their anti-inflammatory effects. Glucosinolates occurs an "enterohepatic circulation" in the body, and the glucosinolates metabolism mainly happens in the intestine. Glucosinolates can be converted into isothiocyanates by intestinal bacteria, which are active substances with remarkable anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-obesity and neuroprotective properties. This biotransformation can greatly improve the bioactivities of glucosinolates. However, multiple factors in the environment can affect the biotransformation to isothiocyanates, including acidic pH, ferrous ions and thiocyanate-forming protein. The derivatives of glucosinolates under those conditions are usually nitriles and thiocyanates, which may impair the potential health benefits. In addition, isothiocyanates are extremely unstable because of an active sulfhydryl group, which limits their applications. This review mainly summarizes the classification, synthesis, absorption, metabolism, physiological functions and potential application strategies of glucosinolates and their metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Cruciferous vegetables and oilseeds are rich in glucosinolates that can transform into isothiocyanates upon enzymic hydrolysis during post-harvest handling, food preparation and/or digestion. Vegetables contain glucosinolates that have beneficial bioactivities, while glucosinolates in oilseeds might have anti-nutritional properties. It is therefore important to monitor and assess glucosinolates and isothiocyanates content through the food value chain as well as for optimized crop production. Vibrational spectroscopy methods, such as infrared (IR) spectroscopy, are used as a nondestructive, rapid and low-cost alternative to the current and common costly, destructive, and time-consuming techniques. This systematic review discusses and evaluates the recent literature available on the use of IR spectroscopy to determine glucosinolates and isothiocyanates in vegetables and oilseeds. NIR spectroscopy was used to predict glucosinolates in broccoli, kale, rocket, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, brown mustard, rapeseed, pennycress, and a combination of Brassicaceae family seeds. Only one study reported the use of NIR spectroscopy to predict broccoli isothiocyanates. The major limitations of these studies were the absence of the critical evaluation of errors associated with the reference method used to develop the calibration models and the lack of interpretation of loadings or regression coefficients used to predict glucosinolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a major dietary component produced in Brassica vegetables from glucosinolates (GLS) upon herbivores’ attack. The compound is gaining increasing interest due to its anticancer activity. However, reports about improving its level in plants or other sources are still rare. Unfortunately, I3C is unstable in acidic media and tends to polymerize rendering its extraction and detection challenging. This review presents a multifaceted overview of I3C regarding its natural occurrence, biosynthesis, isolation, and extraction procedure from dietary sources, and optimization for the best recovery yield. Further, an overview is presented on its metabolism and biotransformation inside the body to account for its health benefits and factors to ensure the best metabolic yield. Compile of the different analytical approaches for I3C analysis in dietary sources is presented for the first time, together with approaches for its detection and its metabolism in body fluids for proof of efficacy. Lastly, the chemopreventive effects of I3C and the underlying action mechanisms are summarized. Optimizing the yield and methods for the detection of I3C will assist for its incorporation as a nutraceutical or adjuvant in cancer treatment programs. Highlighting the complete biosynthetic pathway and factors involved in I3C production will aid for its future biotechnological production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The use of natural bioactive constituents from various food sources for anticancer purposes has become increasingly popular worldwide. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is on the top of the consumed vegetables by the masses. Its raw matrix contains a plethora of phytochemicals, such as glucosinolates and phenolic compounds, along with rich amounts of vitamins, and minerals. Consumption of broccoli-derived phytochemicals provides strong antioxidant effects, particularly due to its sulforaphane content, while modulating numerous molecules involved in cell cycle regulation, control of apoptosis, and tuning enzyme activity. Thus, the inclusion of broccoli in the daily diet lowers the susceptibility to developing cancers. Numerous studies have underlined the undisputable role of broccoli in the diet as a chemopreventive raw food, owing to the content in sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate produced as a result of hydrolysis of precursor glucosinolates called glucoraphanin. This review will provide evidence supporting the specific role of fresh florets and sprouts of broccoli and its key bioactive constituents in the prevention and treatment of different cancers; a number of studies carried out in the in vitro and in vivo conditions as well as clinical trials were analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arable areas frequently lack sufficient soil nutrients, necessitating use of fertilizers, whose excessive usage presents a threat to the environment, human health, and food safety. Natural plant-based growth regulators are inexpensive and favorable to the environment. Phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA) is important in improving quality, productivity, and resistance against various pests, diseases, and environmental challenges. The objectives of this study were to compare effects of fertilization and application of MeJA on taproot yield, leaf nutritive value, and accumulation of sulforaphane (SF) in black radish (Raphanus sativus L. var. niger) taproots. Sulforaphane is a potent cytoprotective agent, promoting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiglycative, and antimicrobial effects. The treatments (T) were: T1 = 3 t∙ha−1 of poultry litter (PL); T2 = PL+2.5 ml∙L−1 foliar application of micro-sulfur (S); T3 = PL+S+3 g∙L−1foliar application of sorbitol (SO); T4 = 480 kg∙ha−1 of NPK 20,20,20; T5 = NPK+S; T6 = NPK+S+SO. The second experiment was foliar application of MeJA at 0, 50, or 100 mg∙L−1. Application of treatments and MeJA alone, and in combination, improved growth, leaf nutrient concentrations, taproot yield components, and accumulation of SF in black radish. The T3 treatment produced the highest relative chlorophyll content (SPAD index = 31.56), most leaf area (495.33 dm2), tallest plants and longest taproot (57.95 and 17.68 cm), highest dry matter of leaf and taproot (8.10 and 12.57%), heaviest fresh weight of leaves and taproots (249.15 and 360.40 g) and highest total taproot yield (120.13 t∙ha−1). Treatment T6 produced highest nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) content in leaves, 3.57, 0.52 and 3.87 g 100 g, respectively, and highest SF content in taproots (8.5 mg/100 g). The 100 mg∙L−1 MeJA rate produced the largest leaf area (480.10 dm2), highest dry matter of leaf and taproot (7.31 and 11.65%), heaviest fresh weight of taproot (356.23 g), highest N, P, K and S content in leaves (3.45, 0.47, 3.69 and 0.375 g/100 g), most taproot yield (118.74 t∙ha−1) and highest FS content in taproot (9.62 g/100 g). The 100 mg∙L−1 foliar application of MeJA was effective in increasing and improving vegetative growth, taproot productivity, and FS accumulation in black radish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are commercially used as a light source to improve plant growth and antioxidants accumulation. Growth and antioxidant system in Chinese kale microgreens illuminated with blue, red and white LEDs and sunlight, as a control, with the same duration of illumination were investigated. The red LED with low light intensity significantly enhanced hypocotyl length and fresh weight of microgreens, while blue and white LEDs and sunlight showed fairly comparable effects. The synergistic effect of blue, green and red LEDs, as white LED was the most effective in enhancing the accumulation of secondary metabolites, namely, total glucosinolates, phenolic compounds and total ascorbic acid. Microgreens grown with blue and white LEDs showed higher DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power, whereas ABTS [2,2'-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)] radical cation (ABTS) fared better under sunlight and blue LEDs. Overall, microgreens treated with red LED significantly reduced H2O2 and lipid peroxidation by only secondary metabolites. While blue and white LEDs treated samples utilised secondary metabolites, as well as, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase when compared to less effective superoxide dismutase in the control samples. The results suggest that light wavelength was a majority factor in enhancement antioxidant accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium (Se) is not yet conclusively classified as an essential nutrient required for plant growth. However, much attention has been devoted to its important role in human health since Se enrichment affects the production of primary and secondary metabolites. A strong link between low levels of Se and cancer and cardiac diseases has been proven. Thus, Se enrichment of crops has been established as a pioneering strategy to enhance Se intake by animals and humans. It has been proven that Se biofortification through a foliar application or in the growth medium has increased Se levels in plant tissues without loss of productivity or qualitative properties. However, to achieve the desirable level of Se and promote human health, Se accumulation in plants should be quantified and balanced because Se enrichment may affect their nutrient balance. This timely review provides a broad overview of the metabolic changes induced in plants by Se enrichment. Additionally, it highlights the contrasting effects of Se biofortification on the up-and-down-regulation of several secondary metabolites including phenolics, flavonoids, and their derivatives, as well as glucosinolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this review is develop to phytochemicals-based functional products against obesity and cancer management. Natural products have been made from reliable sources in past centuries. Phytochemicals are natural compounds that are available in vegetables, legumes, tea crops, fruits and various spices. Phytochemicals are known as secondary metabolites including carotenoids, phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes, saponins, cyanogenic glycosides, and glucosinolates. These phytochemicals are played direct or indirect role against several chronic diseases. However, these compounds have ability to act against various chronic diseases containing diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The literature reports the different potential properties of dietary phytochemicals such as anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review discusses the chemical composition of radish pods and their utilization and health perspective. Radish pods are green vegetables usually consumed in East Asia. Radish pods have gained much interest due to their high chemical composition and antioxidant activity. They contain various chemical compounds, including coumarins, phenols glucosinolates, antioxidants etc. In East Asia, radish pods are usually consumed in households and can also be used commercially as an additive ingredient. However, it can be used in the household as a vegetable, mixed vegetable and additive materials. Radish pods play an important role against cancer, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, and allergies via diverse pathways. It also acts as a hepatoprotective, platelet aggregation and immunity booster. Hence, the radish pods can be used in households for improvement of chronic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to its leaf, few studies have been reported on the seeds of Moringa oleifera Lam. Metabolites profiling analysis of M. oleifera seed methanolic extract (ME) and its fixed oil (MO) was attempted via LC/MS and GC/MS. LC/MS analysis of M. oleifera seeds annotated 84 peaks of which glucosinolates and their corresponding acetyl isomers were abundant. GC/MS of seed oil revealed the abundance of fatty acids with oleic acid at 34.3%. ME exhibited significant anti-Helicobacter pylori activity with MIC50 0.92 µg/mL, nearly one-half that of Clarithromycin. Fixed oil (MO) showed a nonselective anti-inflammatory effect with IC50= 24.4 ± 0.8 µg/mL correlated to Ibuprofen. To unravel the mechanism of the anti-H. pylori activity a molecular docking study of the principal components of the ME has been performed, using H. pylori urease enzyme. Interactions with Ni2+ ions and amino acid residue in the active site, which are crucial for the enzyme's biochemical role, are evidenced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activity-guided fractionations of black tubers of Tropaeolum tuberosum led to the isolation of 3-[3-(3-pyridinyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-yl] benzonitrile (1) and [3,5-Bis (1,1-dimethylethyl)-4-hydroxyphenyl] ethenylidene] bis-phosphonic acid tetraethyl ester (2). Compounds 1 and 2 showed an antibacterial effect against almost all the strains assayed, especially compound 2, showing the same inhibition potential for Enterococcus faecalis and Salmonella enteritidis as the ampicillin (MIC = 1.5 μM) and a better potential than chloramphenicol which has a MIC of 3.5 μM. In addition, compounds 1 and 2 showed a relevant antifungal inhibition against Candida tropicalis with MICs of 100 μM and 50 μM, and against Saccharomyces kudriavzevii with MICs of 25 μM and 1.5 μM. This is in comparison to fluconazole which had MICs of 150 μM (against Candida tropicalis) and 3.5 μM (against Saccharomyces kudriavzevii). This is the first time that compounds 1 and 2 are reported as showing antimicrobial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the safety and tolerability of an oral herbal supplement containing glucosinolates, phytosterols, and citrus flavonoids (Warmi®, Lima Perú;) in otherwise healthy adult women. This was a phase-I, randomized parallel three arms, double-blinded, and a placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 55 participants aged 18-40 were randomly assigned to one of three groups to receive for three months: (1) an oral herbal supplement of 1650 mg/day; (2) an oral herbal supplement of 3300 mg/day; or (3) an oral placebo 3300 mg/day. The primary endpoints were oral safety and tolerability of the supplement. The secondary endpoint was its effect on vital functions, anthropometrics, and laboratory tests. We used an exploratory approach by covariance analysis (ANCOVA) adjusted for the variables' baseline value for the secondary outcomes. All women completed three months of follow-up, reporting no side effects. Our exploratory analysis revealed that treatment with the herbal supplement of 1650 mg/day was associated with increased glucose and uric acid levels. In comparison, the herbal supplement 3300 mg/day was associated with reduced breathing rate, increased basal temperature, and systolic blood pressure, both compared to the placebo group. However, despite significant differences, none of these was clinically significant. The oral herbal supplement had a favorable safety and tolerability profile in studied women. There is a need to study its potential as an option to treat menopausal symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In modern agriculture, plant-derived substances referred to as plant growth and development regulators or biostimulators are increasingly used. The aim of the research was the influence of the applied biostimulators on the concentration of glucosinolates in seeds of three morphotypes of winter oilseed rape. The research was carried out in three growing seasons at the University of Natural Sciences and Humanities in Siedlce (52o03'N i 22o33'E), Poland. The examined factors were: morphotypes of winter oilseed rape: hybrid restored with a traditional type of growth (Konkret), population (Poznaniak), hybrid restored with a semi-dwarf type of growth (PX104), II-four types of biostimulators: 1. Asahi®SL, 2. Silvit®, 3. Tytanit®, 4. control variant. The applied biostimulators had a positive effect on the feed value of the seeds in terms of glucosinolates. In all varieties and years of research, the lowest concentration of these compounds was recorded after the application of the Silvit biostimulator, while in the first year of research after the application of Silvit and in the second year after the application of Tytanit and Asahi SL biostimulators, the same content of these compounds was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is a systematic review of the scientific literature reporting content, composition and biosynthesis of glucosinolates (GLS), and their derivative compounds in Brassica family. An amended classification of brassica species, varieties and their GLS content, organized for the different plant organs and in uniformed concentration measure unit, is here reported for the first time in a harmonized and comparative manner. In the last years, the studies carried out on the effect of processing on vegetables and the potential benefits for human health has increased rapidly and consistently the knowledge on the topic. Therefore, there was the need for an updated revision of the scientific literature of pre- and post-harvest modifications of GLS content, along with the role of gut microbiota in influencing their bioavailability once they are ingested. After analyzing and standardizing over 100 articles and the related data, the highest GLS content in Brassica, was declared in B. nigra (L.) W. D. J. Koch (201.95 ± 53.36 µmol g-1), followed by B. oleracea Alboglabra group (180.9 ± 70.3 µmol g-1). The authors also conclude that food processing can influence significantly the final content of GLS, considering the most popular methods: boiling, blanching, steaming, the latter can be considered as the most favorable to preserve highest level of GLS and their deriviatives. Therefore, a mild-processing strategic approach for GLS or their derivatives in food is recommended, in order to minimize the loss of actual bioactive impact. Finally, the human gut microbiota is influenced by Brassica-rich diet and can contribute in certain conditions to the increasing of GLS bioavailability but further studies are needed to assess the actual role of microbiomes in the bioavailability of healthy glucosinolate derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to 1) investigate the influence of rapeseed cultivar on the range of variation in the chemical composition and feed value of rapeseed meals (RSM) for broilers and 2) to compare between single-cultivar RSM and a batch of UK-sourced proprietary rapeseed meal. Chemical composition was determined for a total of 10 single-cultivar RSM produced via prepressed solvent-extraction and a proprietary RSM. To investigate RSM digestibility a total of 360 birds were housed, six birds per pen, and between day 13 to 21 of age they received a diet containing per kg 250 g RSM and 750 g basal feed based on wheat and soybean meal. Titaniumdioxide (7 g/kg) was added as an inert marker. For the determination nitrogen-corrected metabolisable energy (AMEn) total excreta and feed intake were quantified over the last 4 d of the experiment. On the final day of the experiment ileal digesta were collected for determination of preceacal crude protein digestibility (pcCPD). With the exception of neutral detergent fibre (NDF), glucosinolates and soluble non-starch polysaccharides the coefficients of variation (CV%) for all major components were similar across all RSM (0.5 < CV% < 0.6). Glucosinolate contents were highest in the 10 single-cultivar RSM whereas NDF levels were greater in the proprietary RSM. Across the 10 single-cultivar RSM there was no significant effect of cultivar on AMEn or pcCPD. Pre-planned orthogonal contrasts indicated that the mean AMEn content and pcCPD of the proprietary RSM was significantly lower than the 10 single-cultivar RSM (p < 0.001). In view of the above, processing rather than cultivar appears to be the main driver of nutritional value in RSM fed to broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the direct in vitro toxicity in human and bovine liver cells, and inhibition of activity of ATP-binding cassette transporter G2 (ABCG2) and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) by five nitrile and epithionitrile derivatives from swede (Brassica napus). The following compounds were investigated: 1-cyano-2-hydroxy-3-butene (CHB, epithionitrile derivative of progoitrin), 1-cyano-2-hydroxy-3,4-epithiobutane (epithionitrile derivative of progoitrin), 3-butenenitrile (nitrile from sinigrin), 4-pentenenitrile (nitrile from gluconapin), and 5-hexenenitrile (nitrile from glucobrassicanapin). Direct cytotoxicity was assessed by incubating the compounds (at 100 mM, 200 mM, 2 M) with human (HepG2) hepatocellular carcinoma cells or bovine primary hepatocytes for 24 hours. Cell viability was then assessed using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cytotoxicity in Hep2G cells was also assessed after incubation for 72 hours at sub-chronic concentrations (1, 2.5, 5, 10, 15, 20 µM) and for combinations of compounds (20 µM). The ability of compounds to inhibit activity of the ABCG2 transporter and the CYP3A4 enzyme were assessed using human ABCG2 vesicles and demethylation of erythromycin by rat liver microsomes, respectively. No reduction of cell viability compared to control assays was observed when the tested compounds were incubated with Hep2G cells or bovine liver cells at concentrations up to 2 mM for 24 hours or with Hep2G cells at concentrations up to 20 µM for 72 hours. None of the five tested compounds inhibited the ability of the ABCG2 transporter to transport the fluorescent substrate at concentrations up to 2 mM. Furthermore, no inhibition of CYP3A4 activity (measured as N-demethylation of erythromycin) was observed for CHB up to 2 mM. This study suggests that under these conditions, the selected nitrile or epithionitrile derivatives of glucosinolates are not hepatotoxic in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first study related to micropropagation and phytochemical analyses of Cleome dendroides, an endemic species of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, a biome affected by human activity. Among the classes of substances produced by the genus Cleome, the glucosinolates are used as chemotaxonomic markers. They have a wide structural diversity, which affords, for example, antineoplastic bioactivity. The micropropagation was established using explants from two sources: seedlings and in vitro plants. The morphogenic response was evaluated on Murashige-Skoog (MS) medium with different concentrations of benzyladenine (BA). Hypocotyl explants from seedlings and stem explants from in vitro plants showed higher capacity of shoot regeneration (56.3-100%). Shoot proliferation (75-100%) was maintained when hypocotyl explant-derived shoots and stem explant-derived shoots were subcultured three times a month. Hypocotyl explant-derived shoots maintained on MS + 2.0 mgL-1 BA induced the highest shoot production along the subcultures. Shoots were elongated and rooted on growth regulator-free MS medium. Plantlet establishment was successful in the hardening medium composed of Plantmax® substrate, reaching 85%survival. The phytochemical studies indicated two glucosinolate derivatives, highlighting the presence of 5,6-dimethyltetrahydro-1,3-oxazine-2-thione, identified for the first time in plants. This work demonstrates an efficient method for in-vitro production of C. dendroides plants, which can be used as a source of glucosinolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glucosinolate (GSL) profiles (inflorescence, stem, root, and fruit) of the wild-growing plant Lepidium graminifolium L. (Brassicaceae) from Croatia was established by LC-MS analysis. During this investigation, we confirmed the presence of benzyl- (1), 3-methoxybenzyl- (2), 4-hydroxybenzyl- (4), 4-methoxyindol-3-ylmethyl- (7) GSLs and reported for the first time in the plant the presence of (2 R)-hydroxybut-3-enyl- (11), (2S)-hydroxybut-3-enyl- (12), but-3-enyl- (13), and 2-phenylethyl- (14) GSLs. Finally, 3-hydroxybenzyl GSL (3) was isolated for the first time from L. graminifolium inflorescence and characterised by spectroscopic data interpretation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropospheric ozone is an important ambient atmospheric pollutant component in urban areas. Determining plant reactions to ozone in plant growth and biochemical quality contents plays an important role in understanding plant metabolism. This study aimed to provide an understanding of the effect of ozone on early vegetative growth stage Pak-Choi (Brassica campestris L. ssp. chinensis). An experiment was conducted within an airtight bio-chamber for six consecutive days under 60 ppb ozone concentration. Different exposure duration conditions were 0 h/day, 1 h/day, and 4 h/day. The results showed no reaction of plant growth, but ozone exposure led to significant impacts in biochemical quality. The content of photopigments was not significantly impacted at 1 h/day, but significantly increased at the 4 h/day exposure condition. There was a significant decrease in the total glucosinolate (GLS) and total aliphatic GLS after the 4 h/day exposure condition; however, 4- Methylthiobutyl-GLS, total indole, and aromatic GLS were significantly increased. It appears that biochemical systems are more sensitive than the systems controlling plant growth, and this needs to be taken into account when implementing urban production sites for vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale production of thiocyanate (SCN-) for industrial purposes has led to widespread environmental pollution by this compound. Thiocyanate (SCN-) is toxic for humans and recalcitrant to biological oxygenation and hydrolysis. Phytoremediation is an effective technique for disposal of SCN- because thiocyanate (SCN-) can be assimilated by many plants from contaminated water and soil. In this study, we demonstrate that Thermosynechococcus elongatus BP-1 glutathione S-transferase (TeGST) is a good candidate gene for enhancing phytoremediation of thiocyanate (SCN-) in the plant. Our study demonstrated that Arabidopsis thaliana introduced with the glutathione S-transferase (GST) gene were able to germinate and grow in a medium containing 5 mmol L−1 thiocyanate (SCN-), which was lethal for wild-type plants. Moreover, the GST can confer the capacity of plants to remove more thiocyanate in vivo. Our results suggest that grafting the T. elongatus BP-1 glutathione S-transferase (TeGST) gene into plants is a potentially effective strategy to enhance phytoremediation of environmental thiocyanates. To our knowledge, this is the first study on the degradation of guanidine isothiocyanate by transgenic plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effect of a herbal preparation containing glucosinolates, phytosterols and citrus flavonoids (supplement) on body weight and metabolic parameters usually impaired by menopause. A pre-clinical experimental study carried out in twenty-five Swiss strain mice (Mus musculus) randomly distributed (1:1:1:1:1 ratio) to five groups to receive for ten weeks: (1) oral gelatinized maca extract 0.5625 mg/kg/day + bilateral ovariectomy (Maca + OVX); (2) oral supplement 0.5625 mg/kg/day + bilateral ovariectomy (S1 + OVX); (3) oral supplement 1.6875 mg/kg/day + bilateral ovariectomy (S2 + OVX); (4) oral saline 100 µl/kg/day + bilateral ovariectomy (OVX); and (5) oral saline 100 µl/kg/day + sham surgery (sham). The primary endpoint was change in body weight gain from baseline to final. Secondary endpoints were uterine weight and cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose, and glucose/triglycerides index values at the end of the study. A modified intention-to-treat analysis was performed through linear regression models and using the Bonferroni method to penalized p-values by multiple comparisons. Twenty-three animals completed the study. There was a significant average difference in weight gain, with a greater reduction in the S2 + OVX group compared to the OVX group (difference= −3.5; 95% CI (–5.27; −1.74); p <.001). S2 + OVX group also displayed a significant average reduction of total blood cholesterol (difference: −16.94; 95% CI (–33.73; −0.15); p =.037). No significant effects of the supplement were found on other secondary endpoints. In this murine menopausal model, triple oral supplement dose resulted in an average reduction of weight gain and total cholesterol levels, suggesting that the compound could have a potential effect at regulating menopausal altered metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete mitochondrial genome of mangrove plant: Bruguiera sexangula (Lour.) Poir. var. rhynchopetala Ko was analyzed in this paper, which is the first for the genus within the family Rhizophoraceae. The mitogenome sequence is 286,503 bp in length containing three ribosomal RNA genes, 25 transfer RNA genes, and 35 protein-coding genes. Genes ccmFc, rps3 and cox2 contain one intron, gene nad5 contains two introns, genes nad1 and nad4 contain three introns, and genes nad2 and nad7 contain four introns. Genes nad1, nad2 and nad5 are trans-splicing genes. Phylogenetic analysis using the maximum-likelihood method positioned Bruguiera × rhynchopetala closely with Citrus sinensis in Rosales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four main glucosinolates (progoitrin, epiprogoitrin, gluconapin, and neoglucobrassicin) were isolated and identified from Isatis indigotica roots (Isatidis Radix). Among these, neoglucobrassicin was the first indole glucosinolate isolated from this herb, and its structure was elucidated by NMR, MS, and X-ray diffraction analysis. The glucosinolate components of Isatidis Radix have been profiled by combined use of a conventional preparative column chromatography method and a new UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS method, and validated by simultaneous analysis of intact and desulfurized GLS. A total of 16 glucosinolates (GLS) including 12 aliphatic GLS, two aromatic GLS, and two indole GLS were identified on the basis of their UV profiles, MS/MS data, and/or by comparison with reference substances. Among these nine GLS were reported from I. indigotica for the first time. The total GLS, four isolated GLS, and (R,S)-goitrin (a degraded product of progoitrin and epiprogoitrin) have been estimated in vitro for anti-influenza viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. All the glucosinolate samples were inactive against H3N2 virus and four pathogenic bacteria, and two previously unnoticed GLS (gluconapin and neoglucobrassicin) showed significantly anti-inflammatory activity against the respiratory burst of mouse macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glucosinolate (GL) profiles in leaf and stem of Rorippa sarmentosa (G.Forst. ex DC.) J.F.Macbr., Lepidium bidentatum Montin var. bidentatum, and Capparis spinosa subsp. cordifolia (Lam.) Fici indigenous to French Polynesia were investigated for the first time using LC-MS analysis. In the present study, we have established the presence of 8 known GLs in R. sarmentosa: 4-(methylsulfinyl)butyl- (1), but-3-enyl- (2), 5-(methylsulfinyl)pentyl- (3), 6-(methylsulfinyl)hexyl- (4), indol-3-ylmethyl- (6), 2-phenylethyl- (7), 8-(methylsulfinyl)octyl- (8), and 9-(methylsulfinyl)nonyl- (9) GLs. We have also tentatively identified for the first time the presence in R. sarmentosa of 7-(methylsulfinyl)heptyl GL (5). In addition, we have identified two known GLs in L. bidentatum var. bidentatum: benzyl- (10) and 4-methoxybenzyl- (11) GLs. Finally, the known methyl GL (12) was shown to be largely predominant in C. spinosa subsp. cordifolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive levels of Cu2+ are phytotoxic and exposure of Chinese cabbage to elevated Cu2+ concentrations led to reduction of the plant biomass. To get more insight into the role of glucosinolates upon copper stress, the impact of elevated Cu2+ levels on glucosinolates biosynthesis were studied in Chinese cabbage. The content of total glucosinolates was only elevated in the roots, mostly due to indolic and aromatic glucosinolates. The results showed a higher contribution of indolic glucosinolates, notably glucobrassicin, a 2- and 4-fold increase in Chinese cabbage exposed to 5 and 10 µM Cu2+, respectively. Furthermore, the increase in the indolic glucosinolates was accompanied by enhanced transcript levels of CYP79B2 and CYP83B1, two genes involved in biosynthesis of indolic glucosinolates, and that of the MYB51, a transcription factor involved in regulation of indolic glucosinolate biosynthesis pathway, at elevated Cu2+ concentrations. In addition, total sulfur and nitrogen remained unaffected in the root, but total glucosinolate was significantly enhanced upon exposure to elevated Cu2+. This result may show that relatively more sulfur and nitrogen was channeled into glucosinolates in the root. In conclusion, accumulation of indolic glucosinolates in the root can be considered as a strategy for Chinese cabbage to combat elevated Cu2+ concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agronomic biofortification is the fastest and less expensive method to overcome micronutrient deficiencies of iron, zinc and selenium. Fertilizers also help in augmenting vitamins and other food qualities. Although fertilizers have contributed vastly toward increase in food production, their misuse or rather abuse has led to severe environmental pollution. These include eutrophication of sea and inland waters, depletion of ozone layer and global warming. Fertilizers also contribute toward an increase in mineral and vitamin content in crops. Micronutrient fertilizers can increase concentration of iron and zinc in grains and vegetables, the deficiencies of which are widespread in Asian and African countries. Nitrogen fertilization can increase content of carotene in carrots. Liming is reported to increase calcium concentration in vegetables. Similarly, sulfur (S) fertilization can increase the content of S-containing amino acids in grains, glucosinolates in many Brassica species and alliin content in garlic and onion. As regards, vitamin C, there are increases as well decreases due to nitrogen reported in literature; the minor decreases are well compensated by an increase in yield. Potassium fertilization is reported to increase vitamin C content in some vegetables. Nitrogen fertilization increases nitrate content in vegetables, which is considered harmful, but some recent reports suggests advantages of this increase. Instead of blaming fertilizer for quality of food and environmental degradation, sincere efforts are needed toward its judicious application and avoiding its overuse or abuse and biofortification is the best suited method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glucosinolate (GL) profiles of wild and cultivated Brassica montana Pourret (seed, stem, leaf, root) from southern France were established using LC-MS analysis. In this investigation we have confirmed the presence of 9 known GLs: but-3-enyl- (1), prop-2-enyl- (2), pent-4-enyl- (3), (2R)-2-hydroxybut-3-enyl- (4), 4-hydroxyindol-3-ylmethyl- (5), 4-(methylsulfinyl)butyl- (6), 4-(methylsulfanyl)butyl- (7), 1-methoxyindol-3-ylmethyl- (8), and indol-3-ylmethyl (9) GL. In addition, we tentatively identified for the first time the presence in the plant of 1-methylpropyl GL (10) in all plant parts. In addition, we have pointed out differences in GL profiles between plant organs and between wild and cultivated B. montana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant accumulation of antibiotic residues presents potential risks to human and ecosystem health. However, the phytometabolic pathways of antibiotics following plant uptake are still largely uncharacterized. This study investigated the phytometabolism of sulfamethazine (SMT) by Arabidopsis thaliana, using 14C-labeled and unlabeled SMT. SMT was accumulated in both roots and shoots of axenic A. thaliana plants (123.7 ± 12.3 and 22.7 ± 1.0 µg/kg fw, respectively) after 21 days of exposure. However, the parent 14C-SMT accounted for only 1.7 ± 0.01% of the total 14C-radioactivity in plant tissues. The majority of 14C-radioactivity taken up by plants was present as bound residues (42.0–68.2% of initially applied 14C-SMT), while extractable 14C-residues accounted for only 7.7–12.6%. A. thaliana metabolized SMT primarily through glycosylation at the N4-nitrogen atom. Additionally, other products, including pterin-SMT, methylsalicylate-SMT, N4-formyl-SMT, desulfo-SMT, hydroxyl-SMT, N4-acetyl-SMT, desamino-SMT, and 2-amino-4,6-dimethylpyrimidine, were also identified. Notably, a portion of the extractable metabolites was excreted into the culture media, requiring characterization of these metabolites as either excreted phytometabolites or abiotic transformation products of SMT based on comparisons between experimental and control reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical characteristics of rapeseed meal (RSM) produced from two cultivars of UK-grown rapeseed, by both supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (ScCO2) and cold-pressed hexane extraction (CpHe) were examined. Their nutritional value, with and without protease, was then assessed in a broiler digestibility trial. Basal feed was substituted with one of four RSM batches (200 g/kg) following adjustments for dry matter (DM) and ether extract (EE) content. Half of each diet was supplemented with a monocomponent protease derived from Bacillus subtilis (Axtra®PRO, Danisco Animal Nutrition, Malborough, UK) giving a total of eight test diets. Two control diets, with and without protease were also fed. At 13 d age male Ross 308 broilers were randomly allocated to seven replicate pens (five birds per pen) and assigned to one of 10 diets. Total excreta were collected from 17 to 21 d age and feed intake was recorded. Pre-caecal protein digestibility (pcPd) was determined using TiO2 as an indigestible marker. Colourimetrically CpHe RSM was substantially darker than ScCO2 counterparts. The influence of oil recovery method (ORM) was also evident in DM, EE, ash free neutral detergent fibre (aNDFom), neutral detergent insoluble crude protein (NDICP) and glucosinolate content (GLS). The content of DM, EE and GLS was higher in ScCO2 RSM whereas aNDFom and NDICP levels were greater in CpHe RSM. Protein solubility in KOH was greater in ScCO2 RSM whilst levels of NDICP were lower. Collectively these results suggest that less heat damage was incurred to the RSM during ScCO2 extraction. There was no significant main effect of cultivar nor were any significant interactions observed between treatment factors. Rapeseed meal ScCO2 produced greater metabolisable energy, pcPd, nitrogen retention and energy metabolisability (p < 0.05). Protease supplementation increased pcPd (p < 0.05) irrespective of ORM and cultivar. The key implications of these findings are that by adopting oil recovery methods that minimise the exposure of RSM to thermal treatments and by adding a compatible protease there is scope to increase the nutritional value of RSM for broilers and increase its utilisation in modern poultry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been an increasing trend in recent times for taking more of green leafy vegetables (GLV) portion in the human diet. Among various GLVs available for human consumption, some are confined to a specific region and few are available in many parts of the world. Kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala) is among the latter group which belongs to Brassicaceae family. This review summarizes the nutritional composition and anti-nutritional factors of kale available in different parts of the world. Consideration was also given for summarization of the studies reported on health benefits, pharmacological activities and different food products. It is noted from the literature that kale is a good source of fiber and minerals like potassium with higher calcium bioavailability than that of milk. Kale also contains prebiotic carbohydrates, unsaturated fatty acids and different vitamins while the anti-nutritional factors such as oxalates, tannins and phytate are present in higher concentrations. Research studies are reported different health beneficial activities of the kale like protective role in coronary artery disease, Anti-inflammatory activity, Antigenotoxic ability, gastro protective activity, inhibition of the carcinogenic compounds formation, positive to gut microbes, anti-microbial against specific microorganisms. However, in case of value-added products kale was reported limited usage like, in baked products and beverages. Finally, concluded that, kale has good potential to use in different food and nutritional applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mustard (Brassica juncea) is a cruciferous vegetable used as a food spice and folk medicine worldwide. Mustard contains numerous phytochemicals such as: vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, chlorophylls, glucosinolates (and their degradation products), polyphenols and volatile components(allyl isothiocyanate, 3-butyl isothiocyanate, etc.). The content and exact chemical composition of these phytochemicals is affected by plant variety, growth environment, extraction process and food processing methods. In addition, mustard may possess a plethora of pharmacological activities including anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, and bacteriostatic and antiviral activity. Mustard has also been used to combat several illnesses such as cancer, obesity, depression, diabetes, and cataracts. This review provides an overview of plant characteristics, types, origins, distribution, and consumption methods of Mustard, as well as its phytochemicals and biological activities. The findings of this paper may serve as references for the development and utilization of Mustard resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of nitrogen (N) is a common practice used to achieve profitable yields in horticultural crops and N application can be used as a tool to manipulate the enhancement of phytochemicals in vegetable crops to address consumer-oriented quality production. Our previous findings recommended 90 kg ha−1 for certain types of cauliflower varieties without compromising yields. Thus, this study was aimed to investigate the effect of N application on glucosinolates and phenolic acids, at harvest, in varieties 'Largardo', 'Eskimo' and 'CF-744' grown in the field. N was applied as ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) at concentrations from 0, 60, 90, 120, 150 to 180 kg ha−1. Variety 'CF-744' was more sensitive to N supply and at 180 kg ha−1 N it showed the highest accumulation of glucosinolates (sinigrin, glucoiberin, progoitrin, 4-methoxyglucobrassicin) at harvest. However, 90 kg ha−1 N supply demonstrated the highest accumulation of majority of the glucosinolates in varieties 'Largardo' and 'Eskimo'. Different varieties responded differently to N supply and glucosinolate levels in cauliflowers. Also, different varieties responded differently to N supply and antioxidant property. In all three varieties, the N supply at 120 kg ha−1 showed the highest accumulation of protocatechoic acid, 4-hydroxy benzoic acid, ρ-coumaric acid and caffeic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucosinolate–myrosinase is a substrate-enzyme defense mechanism present in Brassica crops. This binary system provides the plant with an efficient system against herbivores and pathogens. For humans, it is well known for its anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-bacterial, cardio-protective, and central nervous system protective activities. Glucosinolate and myrosinase are spatially present in different cells that upon tissue disruption come together and result in the formation of a variety of hydrolysis products with diverse physicochemical and biological properties. The myrosinase-catalyzed reaction starts with cleavage of the thioglucosidic linkage resulting in release of a D-glucose and an unstable thiohydroximate-O-sulfate. The outcome of this thiohydroximate-O-sulfate has been shown to depend on the structure of the glucosinolate side chain, the presence of supplementary proteins known as specifier proteins and/or on the physiochemical condition. Myrosinase was first reported in mustard seed during 1939 as a protein responsible for release of essential oil. Until this date, myrosinases have been characterized from more than 20 species of Brassica, cabbage aphid, and many bacteria residing in the human intestine. All the plant myrosinases are reported to be activated by ascorbic acid while aphid and bacterial myrosinases are found to be either neutral or inhibited. Myrosinase catalyzes hydrolysis of the S-glycosyl bond, O-β glycosyl bond, and O-glycosyl bond. This review summarizes information on myrosinase, an essential component of this binary system, including its structural and molecular properties, mechanism of action, and its regulation and will be beneficial for the research going on the understanding and betterment of the glucosinolate–myrosinase system from an ecological and nutraceutical perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that consumption of Brassica vegetables has beneficial effect on human's health. The greatest interest is focused on glucosinolates and their hydrolysis products isothiocyanates, due to their potential as cancer preventing compounds. Brassica vegetables are also rich in flavor compounds belonging to many chemical groups. The main sensory sensation related to these vegetable is their characteristic sharp and bitter taste, and unique aroma. Because of these features this group of vegetables is often rejected by consumers. Interestingly, for some people unpleasant sensations are not perceived, suggesting a potential role of inter-individual variability in bitter taste perception and sensibility. Receptors responsible for bitter sensation with the emphasis on Brassica are reviewed, as well as genetic predisposition for bitterness perception by consumers. Also the role of glucosinolates and isothiocyanates as compounds responsible for bitter taste is discussed based on data from the field of food science and molecular biology. Isothiocyanates are shown in broaded context of flavor compounds also contributing to the aroma of Brassica vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diets rich in fruits and vegetables may lower colorectal cancer risk. In particular, a number of in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that cruciferous vegetables and their active compounds elicit chemopreventive potency through multiple mechanisms. However, it is relatively unexplored whether these vegetables modulate the risk of cancer development through epigenetic mechanisms including noncoding RNAs. Therefore, the objective of the present review is to report and discuss existing evidence with regards to modulation of microRNAs (miRNAs), one variety of noncoding RNAs, by cruciferous vegetables and their chemo-preventive effects against colorectal cancers. As results, it seems clear, considering accumulating evidence regarding their interactions with cancer related genes and relevant signaling pathways, that miRNA modulation via cruciferous vegetables is an attractive target for the prevention of colorectal cancer. In addition, miRNAs have been characterized as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and utilized in cancer therapeutics. Thus, it is very possible that natural agents (not limited to those in cruciferous vegetables) enhance cancer therapeutic efficacy and elicit chemopreventive effects through modulating key miRNAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past decades, imaging and spectroscopy techniques have been rapidly developing and widely applied in nondestructive fruit and vegetable quality assessment. The physical properties (including size, shape, color, position, and temperature) and biological properties (including cultivar, season, maturity level and geographical origin) of fruits and vegetables vary from one to another. A great variety of physical and biological properties of agricultural products influence the optical propagation properties and interaction behaviors with incident light, thus decreasing the quality inspection accuracy. Many attempts have been made in image correction and spectral compensation methods to improve the inspection accuracy. This paper gives a detailed summary about influence of physical and biological variability, as well as the correction and compensation methods for eliminating or reducing the effects in fruit and vegetable quality nondestructive inspection by using imaging and spectroscopy techniques. The advantages and disadvantages of the solution methods are discussed and summarized. Additionally, the future challenges and potential trends are also reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to define and compare the antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of polar extracts obtained from basal leaves (It-BL), cauline leaves (It-CL) and flowers (It-F) of Isatis tinctoria L. growing wild around Acireale (Sicily, Italy). The phenolic profile was characterized by HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS analysis and the correlation between phenolic content and the observed biological effects was established. Further, LC/MS analysis showed that the extracts contain glucosinolates at very low concentrations. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was tested in vitro; It-F was the most effective in the DPPH test (IC50 = 0.437 ± 0.003 mg/mL), whilst It-CL showed the best reducing power (1.546 ± 0.006 ASE/mL) and ferrous ions chelating activity (IC50 = 0.564 ± 0.011 mg/mL). The extracts exhibited anti-proliferative effects against three different human thyroid carcinoma cell lines, and It-BL displayed the strongest activity; particularly, it markedly inhibited the growth of CAL-62 cells, causing nearly 85% reduction of viability at the highest tested dose. No cytotoxicity against Artemia salina was observed. The results of our investigations indicate that the polar extracts obtained from I. tinctoria are a potential source of antioxidant and anticancer compounds, which could be suitable for nutraceutical and therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interest increased recently in manufacturing food packaging, such as films and coatings, from protein-based biopolymers. Among various protein sources, canola protein is a novel source for manufacturing polymer films. It can be concentrated or isolated by aqueous extraction technology followed by protein precipitation. Using this procedure, it was claimed that more than 99% of protein was extracted from the defatted canola meal, and protein recovery was 87.5%. Canola protein exhibits thermoplastic properties when plasticizers are present, including water, glycerol, polyethylene glycol, and sorbitol. Addition of these plasticizers allows the canola protein to undergo glass transition and facilitates deformation and processability. Normally, canola protein-based bioplastics showed low mechanical properties, which had tensile strength (TS) of 1.19 to 4.31 MPa. So, various factors were explored to improve it, including blending with synthetic polymers, modifying protein functionality through controlled denaturation, and adding cross-linking agents. Canola protein-based bioplastics were reported to have glass transition temperature,Tg, below −50°C but it highly depends on the plasticizer content. Canola protein-based bioplastics have demonstrated comparable mechanical and moisture barrier properties compared with other plant protein-based bioplastics. They have great potential in food packaging applications, including their use as wraps, sacks, sachets, or pouches. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The current study was aimed to investigate the effect of glucosinolate degradation on the flavor precursors and pungent odors in raw and microwaved rapeseeds. Five isothiocyanates and six sulfur compounds were identified using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC× GC-TOF/MS). Comprehensive analysis with headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA) with altering split ratio showed that 1-isothiocyanato butane, allyl isothiocyanate and 4-isothiocyanato-1-butene were responsible for the sulfur, pungent and green odors in rapeseed oils, due to their high flavor dilution factor. Dimethyl sulfide, dimethyl trisulfide and dimethyl sulfoxide, might be derived from methionine or isothiocyanate rearrangement reactions imparted onion-like, cabbage-like, garlic-like, and sulfurous-pungent odors. Rapeseed samples were heated in a microwave for seven minutes, and the total glucosinolate content decreased from 28.2 ± 0.8 μmol/g to 14.5 ± 0.6 μmol/g in Brassica napus, from 101.2±3.0 μmol/g to 42.2 ± 5.4 μmol/g in Brassica campestris, and from 132.02 ± 9.31 μmol/g to 52.50 ± 6.50 μmol/g in Brassica juncea, compared to untreated ones. Differences in the concentrations of six main odorants and the glucosinolate precursors from genetic types were responsible for the intensity of the pungent odors in raw and microwaved rapeseeds. The result can assist to determine the flavor of the commercial rapeseed oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macamides are bioactive and marker compounds of maca (Lepidium meyenii). Thirty-five commercial maca products were surveyed for macamide composition and content by HPLC-UV/MS. Significant variations of macamide content were found in these products (69-2738 μg/g). Analysis of the macamide biosynthetic pathway suggests that: (a) glucosinolate catabolism, (b) lipid hydrolysis, and (c) amide formation are key steps controlling macamide accumulation in the tissues during the postharvest drying process. Therefore, we further investigated the effects of sample forms, drying temperatures, and storage times on macamide accumulation. Our results show that (1) powdered maca provided the largest macamide accumulation followed by sliced hypocotyls, while whole roots displayed a significantly reduced amide-generating potential; (2) the ideal temperature for macamide formation is about 30°C; (3) macamide content increases continuously along with storage time; (4) exposure to air results in the percentage of unsaturated macamides decreasing. These findings provide useful insights which can be applied in the industrial manufacture of maca products with higher content of bioactive amides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucosinolates are anti-nutritional factors present abundantly in the seed meal fraction of oilseed Brassica species. They are found in varying levels among different genotypes. Those genotypes containing less than 30 µmol/g are considered low/zero glucosinolate type and are preferred for edible purposes due to low pungency. Twenty two different genotypes were taken for the analysis of glucosinolates by spectrophotometry. A regression model was obtained using Ordinary Least Square technique which predicted a formula. Total glucosinolates (µmol/g) = 1.40 + 118.86 × A425, where A425 is the absorbance at 425 nm. The total glucosinolate content obtained by the prediction formula when compared with HPLC data showed a correlation coefficient of 0.942. This high correlation between the two data sets validated the developed methodology. This method also simplifies the estimation of total glucosinolates by excluding the use of HPLC or other sophisticated instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New cancer cases are expected to surge 57% worldwide in the next two decades. The greatest burden will be in low- and middle-income countries that are ill equipped to face this epidemic. Similarly, in the United States, low-income populations are at greater risk for cancer. As most cancers contain over 50 genetic alterations, and as these alterations define dysregulation of over 10 different critical cellular signaling pathways, a “silver bullet” treatment is not effective against most cancers. Instead, the latest World Cancer Report (2012) suggests a research shift toward developing prevention strategies for cancer. Accumulating evidence suggests that a diet high in plant-based foods is preventive of a variety of chronic diseases, including cancer. A plethora of bioactive compounds—such as polyphenols, glucosinolates and carotenoids in fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes—are shown to suppress a variety of biological capabilities required for tumor growth. While much research has shown that plant bioactive compounds can suppress sustained proliferative signaling, angiogenesis, and metastasis, as well as promote cancer stem cell apoptosis, public health campaigns to increase fruit and vegetable consumption have, overall, been less effective than desired. Thus, there is a need for innovative strategies to support increased consumption of bioactive compounds for cancer prevention particularly in vulnerable populations. Many practices of the farm-to-fork continuum, including preharvest practices, postharvest storage, and processing and consumer practices, affect a food's bioactive compound content, composition, and chemopreventive bioactivity. Food system practices may be adjusted to reduce the toxic compound levels (e.g., glycoalkaloids in potatoes) and improve the bioactive compound profile, thus, elevate the cancer fighting properties of fruits, vegetables, and other food products. This review presents current scientific evidence outlining farm-to-fork effects on fruit and vegetable bioactive compounds in order to aid the development of new and reasonable strategies for cancer prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Many studies have focused on research about impact of time and density of sowing on the agronomic characteristics of different crops. However, the number of studies investigating such a response on the qualitative composition of different types of winter oilseed rape varieties is still limited. The aim of the research was to determine the effect of sowing date and density on yield, protein and oil content and quality of winter oilseed rape varieties: open-pollinated, a typical hybrid of traditional type of growth and a new semi-dwarf hybrid, which biology and yielding have not been thoroughly established. This experiment was conducted applying four sowing dates (August 14, August 25, September 4, September 15), three winter oilseed rape cultivars (PR45D03 -semi-dwarf hybrid, PR46W31 – hybrid, Californium – open-pollinated) and four sowing rates (30, 40, 50, 60 seeds/m2). Among the compared sowing dates, August 25 proved to be optimal for yielding of the tested winter oilseed rape cultivars. Semi-dwarf variety contained less protein and glucosinolate in seeds, but more oil in comparison to other studied varieties (hybrid and open-pollinated). The yields did not differ significantly within a density of 40, 50, 60 seeds/m2, so it is important result, especially for the agricultural practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two plant species, arugula (Eruca sativa) and mustard (Brassica juncea) were field-grown under four soil management practices: soil mixed with municipal sewage sludge (SS), soil mixed with horse manure (HM), soil mixed with chicken manure (CM), and no-mulch bare soil (NM) to investigate the impact of soil amendments on the concentration of glucosinolates (GSLs) in their shoots. GSLs, hydrophilic plant secondary metabolites in arugula and mustard were extracted using boiling methanol and separated by adsorption on sephadex ion exchange disposable pipette tips filled with DEAE, a weak base, with a net positive charge that exchange anions such as GSLs. Quantification of GSLs was based on inactivation of arugula and mustard myrosinase and liberation of the glucose moiety from the GSLs molecule by addition of standardized myrosinase (thioglucosidase) and spectrophotometric quantification of the liberated glucose moiety. Overall, GSLs concentrations were significantly greater (1287 µg g-1 fresh shoots) in plants grown in SS compared to 929, 890, and 981 µg g-1 fresh shoots in plants grown in CM, HM, and NM soil, respectively. Results also revealed that mustard shoots contained greater concentrations of GSLs (974 µg g-1 fresh shoots) compared to arugula (651 µg g-1 fresh shoots). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effect of different germination temperatures (10, 20 and 30 °C) on the phytochemical content as well as reducing and antioxidant capacity of broccoli and rocket sprouts. In both seeds and sprouts, the total glucosinolates and ascorbic acid contents did not differ between vegetables, while broccoli exhibited exceptionally higher polyphenols and greater reducing and antioxidant capacity compared to rocket. In both species, an increase in germination temperature positively affected the glucosinolate content. Ascorbic acid increased during germination without a difference among the three tested temperatures. The phenol content in broccoli sprouts increased when they were grown at 30 °C, but the amount decreased at the highest temperatures in rocket. The reducing and antioxidant capacities increased with germination, and higher indexes were detected at 10 °C, particularly in rocket. Different germination temperatures differentiate the health-promoting phytochemical content and antioxidant properties in broccoli and rocket sprouts. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]