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Background: Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) is an important vegetable crop that often suffers from low-temperature stress during growth. However, the molecular mechanism involved in its response to chilling stress remains unknown. In this study, we comprehensively investigated the effect of chilling stress in pumpkin seedlings by conducting physiological, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses. Results: Under chilling stress, there was an overall increase in relative electrical conductivity, along with malondialdehyde, soluble sugar, and soluble protein contents, but decreased superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities and chlorophyll contents in seedling leaves compared with controls. Overall, 5,780 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 178 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified under chilling stress. Most DEGs were involved in plant hormone signal transduction and the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway, and ERF, bHLH, WRKY, MYB, and HSF transcription factors were induced. Metabolomic analysis revealed that the contents of salicylic acid (SA), phenylalanine, and tyrosine increased in response to chilling stress. The findings indicated that the SA signaling and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways are key to regulating the responses to chilling stress in pumpkins. Conclusion: Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the comprehensive response of C. moschata to chilling stress, enriching the theoretical basis of this mechanism and facilitating the development of molecular breeding strategies for pumpkin tolerance to chilling stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wound healing comprises an intricate process to repair damaged tissue. Research on plant extracts with properties to expedite wound healing has been of interest, particularly their ability to enhance the stemness of keratinocyte stem cells. Hence, the present study aims to determine the wound healing and stemness potentiation properties of an ethanolic extract derived from Cucurbita moschata fruit pulp (PKE). Human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and primary skin fibroblast cells were used in this study. The migration of the cells was examined by using a scratch wound healing assay, and spheroid behavior was determined by using a spheroid formation assay. The proteins related to migration and stemness were further measured by using Western blotting to explore the mechanism of action of PKE. The methods used to evaluate PKE's antioxidant properties were 2,2‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, ABTS radical scavenging activity, and superoxide anion radical scavenging (SOSA) assays. The phytochemistry of the PKE was investigated using phytochemical screening and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The results of this study indicate that nontoxic concentrations of PKE increase the rate of migration and spheroid formation. Mechanistically, PKE increased the expression of the migratory‐related protein active FAK (phosphorylated FAK), and the subsequence increased the level of p‐AKT. The expression of stem cell marker CD133, upstream protein signaling β‐catenin, and self‐renewal transcription factor Nanog was increased. The PKE also possessed scavenging properties against DPPH, ABTS, and SOSA. The phytochemistry analyses exhibited the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, xanthones, triterpenes, and steroids. Additionally, bioactive compounds such as ɑ‐tocopherol, riboflavin, protocatechuic acid, β‐carotene, and luteolin were detected. The presence of these chemicals in PKE may contribute to its antioxidant, stem cell potentiation, and wound‐healing effects. The findings could be beneficial in the identification of valuable natural resources that possess the capacity to be used in the process of wound healing through the potentiation of stemness via a readily detectable molecular mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) is an important vegetable crop that often suffers from low-temperature stress during growth. However, the molecular mechanism involved in its response to chilling stress remains unknown. In this study, we comprehensively investigated the effect of chilling stress in pumpkin seedlings by conducting physiological, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses. Results Under chilling stress, there was an overall increase in relative electrical conductivity, along with malondialdehyde, soluble sugar, and soluble protein contents, but decreased superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities and chlorophyll contents in seedling leaves compared with controls. Overall, 5,780 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 178 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified under chilling stress. Most DEGs were involved in plant hormone signal transduction and the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway, and ERF, bHLH, WRKY, MYB, and HSF transcription factors were induced. Metabolomic analysis revealed that the contents of salicylic acid (SA), phenylalanine, and tyrosine increased in response to chilling stress. The findings indicated that the SA signaling and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways are key to regulating the responses to chilling stress in pumpkins. Conclusion Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the comprehensive response of C. moschata to chilling stress, enriching the theoretical basis of this mechanism and facilitating the development of molecular breeding strategies for pumpkin tolerance to chilling stress.

\nPRATICAL APPLICATIONSPumpkin seeds are sources of various nutrients and bioactive compounds and can be used after appropriate treatment. The seeds, when dehydrated, can be used as ingredients in several important foods. Through kinetic analysis it is possible to determine the behavior of the dry material, and describe the process through mathematical models, becoming useful tools for decision-making and contributing to the improvement of the process efficiency. The objective of this study was to construct drying kinetics for “Jacarezinho” pumpkin seeds and adjust the experimental data obtained to mathematical models. The seeds were dried in a convective dryer, varying the drying temperature (30, 40 and 50°C), with an air speed of 1.5 m.s-1. The drying kinetics were well described by the Midilli model (R2 99.90–99.99; MSE > 0.1). The use of the transfer kinetic data presented provides support for the use of pumpkin seeds to produce new foods.The use of the data presented here for drying kinetics and thermodynamic properties provides support for the use of pumpkin seeds for the production of new foods, due to the knowledge of the processing time and physical behavior of the sample, which can be incorporated into various formulations. foods in different segments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata Duchesne ex Poir) are extensively cultivated in Brazil, gaining prominence due to their importance in nutrition and potential health benefits. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of harvest time and storage conditions on the postharvest quality and contents of bioactive compounds in 'Brasileirinha' pumpkin. The experimental design employed was a completely randomized design in a 3 × 6 factorial scheme, involving three harvest times (70, 90, and 110 days after planting) and six storage periods (0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days), with five replicates. The results highlighted variations in the external fruit brightness during storage, with a notable increase at 70 days after planting (DAP) and a consistent decrease in fruits harvested at 110 DAP. The a and b coordinates of the outer skin indicated that the harvest time influenced fruit ripening, with fruits harvested at 110 DAP showing higher values, suggesting a more advanced ripening stage. Fruit firmness decreased over storage time, regardless of the harvest time. Fruits harvested at 110 DAP exhibited higher soluble solids content, while pH increased during storage. Bioactive compounds, such as the ascorbic acid content, increased during storage, being higher in fruits harvested at 110 DAP. Total chlorophyll decreased, while carotenoids increased with storage, especially in fruits harvested at 110 DAP. Phenolic compounds and flavonoid varied with harvest time and storage, emphasizing the importance of considering these factors in assessing the nutritional quality of 'Brasileirinha' pumpkin. This study provided valuable information about changes in the quality and composition of bioactive compounds in 'Brasileirinha' pumpkin during storage, with an emphasis on the influence of harvest time. These results have significant implications for the food and nutrition industry, aiming to optimize the use of this vegetable as a healthy nutrient source in the human diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the health-promoting properties of plant-derived compounds have garnered increasing scientific interest. Notably, tomatoes and pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata), renowned for their abundant phytochemicals and associated biological activities, have become focal points of research. This study investigated the extraction of phenolic compounds from tomatoes and pumpkins cultivated on Lemnos, an Aegean Island, aiming to enhance the nutritional profiles of food products. We established an extraction protocol for total phenolics and evaluated the antioxidant capacity using response surface methodology. Utilizing a central composite design, we optimized the extraction parameters, with time and ethanol concentration identified as critical factors (p < 0.05). The optimized extracts demonstrated substantial phenolic content (9.47 ± 0.08 and 4.52 ± 0.05 mg GAE/g for tomatoes and pumpkins, respectively) and antioxidant capabilities as determined by DPPH (7.65 ± 0.08 and 5.78 ± 0.05 μmol TE/g, respectively), ABTS (9.27 ± 0.02 and 3.95 ± 0.04 μmol TE/g, respectively), FRAP (5.25 ± 0.09 and 2.99 ± 0.03 μmol TE/g, respectively), and CUPRAC assays (2.3 ± 0.04 and 1.25 ± 0.03 μmol TE/g, respectively). Following extraction, the phenolic compounds were encapsulated using maltodextrin and subsequently freeze-dried, yielding high encapsulation efficiency. In alignment with a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering functional snacks that enhance local economic and public health outcomes, vegetables sourced from local farms were employed to develop a savory cereal bar enriched with tomato extract and a sweet cookie infused with pumpkin extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dried leaf powder of malunggay (Moringa oleifera) contains an excellent nutritional value, and this tropical plant is widely available in the Philippines. On the other hand, squash (Cucurbita moschata) is an incredibly beneficial food with high amounts of vitamins. The nutrients from Malunggay and squash can help prevent deficiencies in children. The main focus of the research was to determine the acceptability of the different formulations of M. oleifera and C. moschata cookies. The study determined the most preferred cookie formulation based on sensory evaluation using descriptive testing of the product's appearance, aroma, taste, sweetness, texture, and acceptability rating of the formulations. The respondents were 20 food experts and 40 non-experts. The Analysis of Variance was used to examine the statistical significance of mean differences among the distinct groups. Subsequently, Tukey's Honest Significant Difference (HSD) test was employed to ascertain the significance of differences between pairs of group means, providing a more nuanced understanding of the variations observed within these groups. Results showed that among the three cookie formulations, F3 got the highest mean score of the different attributes, namely appearance (x = 4.45; x = 4.6) aroma (x = 4.9; x = 4.7), taste (x = 4.95; x = 4.93), sweetness (x = 4.9; x =4.75), and texture (x = 4.8; x = 4.68), as perceived by the expert and non-expert, respectively. This implies that respondents prefer cookie formulation F3 over the two other formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive compounds have been shown to promote healthy human development and protect against certain diseases including some cancers. Tropical pumpkins bred for consumption, such as calabaza (Cucurbita moschata), possess these compounds, though concentrations vary considerably between varieties. Bioactive compound quantification methods can be expensive, complex, and generate considerable hazardous waste. A predictive tool utilizing the relationship between extrinsic properties and tristimulus colorimetry values of calabaza would allow for significantly higher throughput with lower requirements for equipment, training, and laboratory consumables. Therefore, this study examined correlations between flesh color and bioactive compound quantities of several calabaza germplasm lines to assess the utility of a sustainable and portable predictive tool. CIEL* a* b* values of pumpkin flesh were assessed using a colorimeter and compared to bioactive compound concentrations determined analytically. Redness was found to correlate with increased ascorbic acid and total soluble solids content. Yellowness correlated with β-carotene equivalent carotenoids and ascorbic acid content. These results suggest that colorimetry may be a viable pre-screening technique for quantifying bioactive compounds in C. moschata.

Simple Summary: Pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata), valued for their nutritional, medicinal, and economic contributions, are threatened by root-knot nematodes, notably Meloidogyne incognita. This research explores the impact of M. incognita on the growth and comprehensive physiological responses of pumpkins. The findings reveal that infection leads to significant growth impairment, as indicated by reduced plant height and biomass along with the development of nematode-induced galls. In addition, there is an observable oxidative stress response characterized by elevated levels of hydrogen peroxide and an increase in antioxidant defense mechanisms such as crucial antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, and catalase) and the accumulation of glutathione. These responses demonstrate a dynamic interplay between the plant and the nematode, where pumpkins mobilize robust antioxidant defenses to counteract the stress induced by nematode infection. Despite these defense mechanisms, pumpkin's ability to combat M. incognita raises concerns about the agricultural production challenges posed by this pest in Cucurbita crops. The insights gained from this study improve our understanding of plant–nematode interactions, paving the way for strategies aimed at increasing resistance against these pests, thus promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata), valued for their nutritional, medicinal, and economic significance, face threats from Meloidogyne incognita, a critical plant-parasitic nematode. This study extensively examines the impact of M. incognita on the growth, physiological, and biochemical responses of C. moschata. We demonstrate that M. incognita infection leads to significant growth impairment in C. moschata, evidenced by reduced plant height and biomass, along with the significant development of nematode-induced galls. Concurrently, a pronounced oxidative stress response was observed, characterized by elevated levels of hydrogen peroxide and a significant increase in antioxidant defense mechanisms, including the upregulation of key antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, catalase, and peroxidase) and the accumulation of glutathione. These responses highlight a dynamic interaction between the plant and the nematode, wherein C. moschata activates a robust antioxidant defense to mitigate the oxidative stress induced by nematode infection. Despite these defenses, the persistence of growth impairment underscores the challenge posed by M. incognita to the agricultural production of C. moschata. Our findings contribute to the understanding of plant–nematode interactions, paving the way for the development of strategies aimed at enhancing resistance in Cucurbitaceae crops against nematode pests, thus supporting sustainable agricultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, AuNPs were biosynthesized from Cucurbita moschata fruit peel extracts. Biosynthesized AuNPs exhibited maximum absorbance at a 555 nm wavelength, and XRD analysis indicated that the CM-AuNPs had a particle size of less than 100 nm and a cubic crystal structure. TEM scans revealed that the gold particles exhibited a spherical morphology, with an average size of 18.10 nm. FTIR analysis revealed strong peaks indicating the presence of functional groups involved in the reduction reactions. The surface charge of the biosynthesized AuNPs was determined to be −19.7 mV. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of AuNPs against pathogen strains were assessed by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. The cytotoxic effects of CM-AuNPs on cancer cell lines (Sk-Ov-3, CaCo2, and A549) and healthy cell lines (HUVEC) were investigated using the MTT method. The findings indicated that AuNPs biosynthesized by the green synthesis method using C. moschata peel aqueous extract had high inhibition on the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and effective cytotoxic activity against cancerous cell lines at low doses. As a result, it can be concluded that CM-AuNPs will be eminently effective in the production of antibacterial and/or anticancer drugs in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pumpkin, nutritious vegetable, is renowned for its extended shelf life. In this study, seven pumpkin cultivars from Cucurbita moschata and Cucurbita maxima were comparatively characterized for 25 physiochemical quality factors, starch granule structures, antioxidant activity, and correlations at 0–60 days of postharvest (dop). The findings revealed that sucrose and carotenoid contents increased in C. moschata, while they initially increased and then decreased in C. maxima. Additionally, acidity, primarily driven by malic acid, decreased in C. maxima but increased in C. maxima. The starch content of C. moschata and C. maxima reached its maximum value at 30 dop and 20 dop, respectively. The DPPH radical scavenging activity correlated with the carotenoid content in both pumpkin species. Conclusively, C. moschata demonstrated improved nutritional and quality at 20–30 dop, while C. maxima exhibited higher commercial suitability at 10–20 dop. The findings suggested that pumpkin storage was crucial for quality improvement.

Abstract Background Photoperiod, or the length of the day, has a significant impact on the flowering and sex differentiation of photoperiod-sensitive crops. The “miben” pumpkin (the main type of Cucurbita moschata Duch.) is well-known for its high yield and strong disease resistance. However, its cultivation has been limited due to its sensitivity to photoperiod. This sensitivity imposes challenges on its widespread cultivation and may result in suboptimal yields in regions with specific daylength conditions. As a consequence, efforts are being made to explore potential strategies or breeding techniques to enhance its adaptability to a broader range of photoperiods, thus unlocking its full cultivation potential and further promoting its valuable traits in agriculture. Results This study aimed to identify photoperiod-insensitive germplasm exhibiting no difference in sex differentiation under different day-length conditions. The investigation involved a phenotypic analysis of photoperiod-sensitive (PPS) and photoperiod-insensitive (PPIS) pumpkin materials exposed to different day lengths, including long days (LDs) and short days (SDs). The results revealed that female flower differentiation was significantly inhibited in PPS_LD, while no differences were observed in the other three groups (PPS_SD, PPIS_LD, and PPIS_SD). Transcriptome analysis was carried out for these four groups to explore the main-effect genes of sex differentiation responsive to photoperiod. The main-effect gene subclusters were identified based on the principal component and hierarchical cluster analyses. Further, functional annotations and enrichment analysis revealed significant upregulation of photoreceptors (CmCRY1, F-box/kelch-repeat protein), circadian rhythm-related genes (CmGI, CmPRR9, etc.), and CONSTANS (CO) in PPS_LD. Conversely, a significant downregulation was observed in most Nuclear Factor Y (NF-Y) transcription factors. Regarding the gibberellic acid (GA) signal transduction pathway, positive regulators of GA signaling (CmSCL3, CmSCL13, and so forth) displayed higher expression levels, while the negative regulators of GA signaling, CmGAI, exhibited lower expression levels in PPS_LD. Notably, this effect was not observed in the synthetic pathway genes. Furthermore, genes associated with ethylene synthesis and signal transduction (CmACO3, CmACO1, CmERF118, CmERF118-like1,2, CmWIN1-like, and CmRAP2-7-like) showed significant downregulation. Conclusions This study offered a crucial theoretical and genetic basis for understanding how photoperiod influences the mechanism of female flower differentiation in pumpkins.

In this study freeze-drying and oven-drying (at 50 and 65 °C) were applied for the preparation of dried pumpkin waste. The effect of drying methods on physical properties (moisture content, water activity, hygroscopicity, water solubility, bulk and tapped density, flowability and colour), content of bioactive compounds (carotenoids and phenolics) and antioxidant activity were investigated. Also, the influence of one-year storage at –20 °C on the bioactive compounds content and the antioxidant activity of dried pumpkin waste was examined. Results indicated that drying method showed a significant impact on the investigated characteristics. Bioactive compounds content and antioxidant activity by DPPH test of freeze-dried were higher than of oven-dried pumpkin waste, while higher antioxidant activity in reducing power assay was determined by oven-dried pumpkin waste. An artificial neural network model was developed, for the anticipation of antioxidant activity according to bioactive compounds content (phenolics and carotenoids), in oven-dried (at 50 and 65 °C) and in freeze-dried pumpkin waste after one-year storage. These models showed good prediction properties (the r2 value during training cycle for output variables was 0.999). It was demonstrated that pumpkin waste is potentially an important source of bioactive compounds, which can be used after extraction in suitable forms in the development of functional food products.

Background: Photoperiod, or the length of the day, has a significant impact on the flowering and sex differentiation of photoperiod-sensitive crops. The "miben" pumpkin (the main type of Cucurbita moschata Duch.) is well-known for its high yield and strong disease resistance. However, its cultivation has been limited due to its sensitivity to photoperiod. This sensitivity imposes challenges on its widespread cultivation and may result in suboptimal yields in regions with specific daylength conditions. As a consequence, efforts are being made to explore potential strategies or breeding techniques to enhance its adaptability to a broader range of photoperiods, thus unlocking its full cultivation potential and further promoting its valuable traits in agriculture. Results: This study aimed to identify photoperiod-insensitive germplasm exhibiting no difference in sex differentiation under different day-length conditions. The investigation involved a phenotypic analysis of photoperiod-sensitive (PPS) and photoperiod-insensitive (PPIS) pumpkin materials exposed to different day lengths, including long days (LDs) and short days (SDs). The results revealed that female flower differentiation was significantly inhibited in PPS_LD, while no differences were observed in the other three groups (PPS_SD, PPIS_LD, and PPIS_SD). Transcriptome analysis was carried out for these four groups to explore the main-effect genes of sex differentiation responsive to photoperiod. The main-effect gene subclusters were identified based on the principal component and hierarchical cluster analyses. Further, functional annotations and enrichment analysis revealed significant upregulation of photoreceptors (CmCRY1, F-box/kelch-repeat protein), circadian rhythm-related genes (CmGI, CmPRR9, etc.), and CONSTANS (CO) in PPS_LD. Conversely, a significant downregulation was observed in most Nuclear Factor Y (NF-Y) transcription factors. Regarding the gibberellic acid (GA) signal transduction pathway, positive regulators of GA signaling (CmSCL3, CmSCL13, and so forth) displayed higher expression levels, while the negative regulators of GA signaling, CmGAI, exhibited lower expression levels in PPS_LD. Notably, this effect was not observed in the synthetic pathway genes. Furthermore, genes associated with ethylene synthesis and signal transduction (CmACO3, CmACO1, CmERF118, CmERF118-like1,2, CmWIN1-like, and CmRAP2-7-like) showed significant downregulation. Conclusions: This study offered a crucial theoretical and genetic basis for understanding how photoperiod influences the mechanism of female flower differentiation in pumpkins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the mineral profiles, physicochemical and sensory properties of pumpkin dough chips (PDC), made from pumpkin pulp (Cucurbita moschata) and a combination of hazelnut and grain meals fried by oven (OF), microwave (CMWF) and deep frying (DF). The experiment was established by 36 samples, including formulations (F = 4), frying techniques (FT = 3) and replications (R = 3). The effect of F, FT and F × FT factors on the moisture, ash, protein, oil, hydroxymethylfurfural, phenolics, DPPH-RSA, TEAC, β-carotene, Hunter L*, a*, b*, browning index, hardness, fracturability and minerals of PDC were found significant statistically (P < 0.05). As a result of ICP-MS analysis of PDCs, K, Na, Ca, Mg, and Si minerals were higher than other minerals. While the OF chips had most appreciated, panellists found the DF chips oily. Also, there was a harmony between the pumpkin in the PDC and the cereal flours and hazelnuts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytophthora capsici incites foliar blight, root, fruit, and crown rot in squash (Cucurbita spp.) and limits production worldwide. Resistance to crown rot in C. moschata breeding line #394-1-27-12 is conferred by three dominant genes, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this resistance are poorly understood. In the current study, RNA sequencing was used to investigate transcriptional changes in #394-1-27-12 (resistant) and Butterbush (susceptible) following infection by P. capsici at 12, 24, 48, 72, and 120 h post inoculation (hpi). Overall, the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in Butterbush (2648) exceeded those in #394-1-27-12 (1729), but in both genotypes, the highest number of DEGs was observed at 72 hpi and least at 24 hpi. Our gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed a downregulation of the genes involved in polysaccharide and lignin metabolism in Butterbush but as an upregulation of those associated with regulation of peptidase activity. However, in #394-1-27-12, the downregulated genes were primarily associated with response to stimuli, whereas those upregulated were involved in oxidation–reduction and response to stress. The upregulated genes in #394-1-27-12 included defensin-like proteins, respiratory-burst oxidases, ethylene-responsive transcription factors, cytochrome P450 proteins, and peroxidases. These findings provide a framework for the functional validation of the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to P. capsici in cucurbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytophthora capsici incites foliar blight, root, fruit, and crown rot in squash (Cucurbita spp.) and limits production worldwide. Resistance to crown rot in C. moschata breeding line #394-1-27-12 is conferred by three dominant genes, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this resistance are poorly understood. In the current study, RNA sequencing was used to investigate transcriptional changes in #394-1-27-12 (resistant) and Butterbush (susceptible) following infection by P. capsici at 12, 24, 48, 72, and 120 h post inoculation (hpi). Overall, the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in Butterbush (2648) exceeded those in #394-1-27-12 (1729), but in both genotypes, the highest number of DEGs was observed at 72 hpi and least at 24 hpi. Our gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed a downregulation of the genes involved in polysaccharide and lignin metabolism in Butterbush but as an upregulation of those associated with regulation of peptidase activity. However, in #394-1-27-12, the downregulated genes were primarily associated with response to stimuli, whereas those upregulated were involved in oxidation–reduction and response to stress. The upregulated genes in #394-1-27-12 included defensin-like proteins, respiratory-burst oxidases, ethylene-responsive transcription factors, cytochrome P450 proteins, and peroxidases. These findings provide a framework for the functional validation of the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to P. capsici in cucurbits.

In recent years, the health-promoting properties of plant-derived compounds have garnered increasing scientific interest. Notably, tomatoes and pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata), renowned for their abundant phytochemicals and associated biological activities, have become focal points of research. This study investigated the extraction of phenolic compounds from tomatoes and pumpkins cultivated on Lemnos, an Aegean Island, aiming to enhance the nutritional profiles of food products. We established an extraction protocol for total phenolics and evaluated the antioxidant capacity using response surface methodology. Utilizing a central composite design, we optimized the extraction parameters, with time and ethanol concentration identified as critical factors (p < 0.05). The optimized extracts demonstrated substantial phenolic content (9.47 ± 0.08 and 4.52 ± 0.05 mg GAE/g for tomatoes and pumpkins, respectively) and antioxidant capabilities as determined by DPPH (7.65 ± 0.08 and 5.78 ± 0.05 μmol TE/g, respectively), ABTS (9.27 ± 0.02 and 3.95 ± 0.04 μmol TE/g, respectively), FRAP (5.25 ± 0.09 and 2.99 ± 0.03 μmol TE/g, respectively), and CUPRAC assays (2.3 ± 0.04 and 1.25 ± 0.03 μmol TE/g, respectively). Following extraction, the phenolic compounds were encapsulated using maltodextrin and subsequently freeze-dried, yielding high encapsulation efficiency. In alignment with a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering functional snacks that enhance local economic and public health outcomes, vegetables sourced from local farms were employed to develop a savory cereal bar enriched with tomato extract and a sweet cookie infused with pumpkin extract.

Simple Summary: Pumpkin by-products such as seeds, and pomace can be a source of nutrients for aquatic organisms. In a study evaluating the inclusion of Japanese pumpkin seeds and pomace in the diet of the Pacific white shrimp Penaeus vannamei, we found that the seeds had a negative effect on shrimp performance and a pro-oxidative effect on muscle, whereas pumpkin pomace improved the feed conversion ratio and antioxidant activity of feeds and muscle and resulted in shrimp becoming more orange, both when fresh and after cooking. We do not recommend the inclusion of pumpkin seeds in the diets of P. vannamei, and we suggest further studies evaluating higher levels of inclusion of pumpkin pomace. A 60-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of including pumpkin seeds and pomace in the diets of Pacific white shrimp Penaeus vannamei, and the effects of these supplements on growth performance, body composition, and total polyphenol, flavonoid and carotenoid contents, as well as on total antioxidant activity, and body color parameters. Five diets were evaluated: pumpkin seeds (PS) at 50 and 100 g·kg−1, pumpkin pomace (PP) at 50 and 100 g·kg−1, and a control treatment. Pacific white shrimp (P. vannamei) juveniles (0.60 ± 0.01 g) were stocked in 15 tanks (310 L), containing 30 shrimps per tank, and the treatments were randomly distributed in triplicate. At the end of the experiment, shrimps were euthanized, weighed, and dissected for further analyses. The inclusion of PS in the diets impaired growth performance, reduced the total flavonoid content and had a pro-oxidative effect on muscle. The inclusion of PP in the diets did not affect growth performance, improved the feed conversion ratio, increased the total flavonoid content in the diets and hepatopancreas, and improved the antioxidant activity of the feeds and shrimp muscle. The total carotenoid content of the feeds increased with the inclusion of PS or PP in the diets; however, the total carotenoid content of shrimp increased only in those fed PP diets. Shrimp fed with PS diets showed a yellowish color and higher saturation when fresh and a reddish color and yellow hue angle after cooking. Shrimp fed PP diets turned reddish and yellowish, both when fresh and after cooking. The inclusion of PS in P. vannamei diets is not recommended; however, PP can be included at 100 g·kg−1 without affecting the growth parameters. Further studies evaluating the inclusion of higher PP levels in shrimp diets are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of food with functional ingredients, characterized by low energy intake and a variety of phytonutrients with biological activity, is one of the concerns of the population. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of pumpkin powder and its bioactive components on the quality, color and textural properties of shortbread cookies. In the drying process of pumpkin powder (Cucurbita moschata) at 60 ± 2 °C, the physicochemical parameters did not change significantly in relation to fresh pulp. The chromatic parameters L*, a* and b* showed that the pumpkin powder was brighter than the pulp, with a greater presence of yellow pigments. Pumpkin powder presented a rich source of bioactive compounds (polyphenols flavonoids, carotenoids) with an antioxidant potential of 161.52 mmol TE/100 g DW and 558.71 mg GAE/100 g DW. Antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus), Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella Abony and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria and high antifungal activity against Candida albicans were attested. The sensory, physicochemical, texture parameters and color indicators of shortbread cookies with yellow pumpkin powder (YPP) added in a proportion of 5–20% were analyzed. The optimal score was given to the sample of 15% YPP. The use of 15–20% YPP contributed to improved consistency due to the formation of complexes between starch and protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) undergoes several cooking processes before consumption, leading to alterations in both its physical attributes and chemical composition. Therefore, the objective of this work is to evaluate the effect of different cooking treatments (convection oven, steaming, microwaving, and boiling) on bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity in different pumpkin cultivars: Cuyano INTA, Dorado INTA, Paquito INTA, and Cokena INTA. The results showed high variability in the concentration of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity between the cultivars (p < 0.001). The stability of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity after cooking was found to be genotype × cooking treatment interaction dependent (p < 0.001). Nevertheless, the free radical scavenging activity exhibited by cooked pumpkins was found to be high, in the range of 69.93 to 256.44 µM Trolox g−1 fw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For thousands of years, medicinal plants have played a pivotal role in maintaining human health and improving the quality of human life. This study was designed to analyze the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial potentials of a hydro-methanolic extract of Cucurbita moschata flowers, along with qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening. The anti-inflammatory effect was tested using the in vitro membrane stabilizing method for human red blood cells (HRBC), the analgesic effect was tested using the in vivo acetic acid-induced writing method, and the antibacterial effect was tested using the disc diffusion method. In silico ADME/T and molecular docking studies were performed to assess the potential of the stated phytochemicals against Cyclooxygenase-II enzyme. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, and carbohydrates. The flower extract demonstrated the maximum protection of human red blood cells at 1000 µg/mL, with a 65.73% reduction in hemolysis in a hypotonic solution. The extract also showed significant (p < 0.05) and dose-dependent analgesic effects at oral doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg on the tested animals. Furthermore, the flower extract exhibited potent antibacterial activity due to the disc diffusion method, which was compared with standard ciprofloxacin. In silico testing revealed that 42 phytochemicals exhibited notable pharmacokinetic properties and passed drug likeness screening tests. Among the six best-selected compounds, 3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran-2-yl)methanamine showed the highest binding affinity (−10.1) with significant non-bonding interactions with the target enzyme. In conclusion, the hydro-methanolic extract of Cucurbita moschata was found to be rich in various phytochemicals that may be associated with therapeutic potential, and this study supports the traditional use of Cucurbita moschata flowers in the management of inflammation and painful conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to select promising Turkish local Cucurbita rootstocks among intraspecific and interspecific hybrids for grafted melon seedling based on hybrid success rate, hypocotyl traits and graft compatibility. Rooting potentials, root system architecture and plant growth parameters of the rootstocks grafted with melon were also evaluated. Two lines of C. maxima (male parent) and eleven lines of C. moschata (female parent) at S5 generation were used. In addition, six winter squash lines were used as male parent and six pumpkin lines were used as female parent in intraspecific hybridization program. Intraspecific hybrid combinations had quite high number of seeds per fruit as compared to interspecific hybrid combinations. The highest number of seeds per fruit was obtained from HMO2 × OMO2 (359) and OMO5 × HMO8 (314) hybrid combinations. Hypocotyl lengths of all hybrid cucurbit rootstock combinations ranged from 32.96 mm (RS17) to 73.35 mm (RS8) and hypocotyl thicknesses ranged from 2.71 mm (RS2) to 3.55 mm (RS8). Graft success rates varied between 96.6 – 100% in winter squash and pumpkin intraspecific hybrids and between 87.1 – 100% in interspecific hybrids. Significant differences were seen in root architecture parameters (root length, root volume, mean root diameter, root surface area and root dry matter weight) of intraspecific and interspecies hybrid Cucurbita lines. The findings of the study indicated that the intraspecific and interspecific local cucurbit rootstock candidates developed within the rootstock breeding program showed promise as viable options for commercial use as rootstocks for grafted melon seedlings. Research about the effects of selected intraspecific and interspecific hybrid Cucurbita rootstock candidates on earliness, fruit quality and yield parameters of grafted melon will continue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata), valued for their nutritional, medicinal, and economic significance, face threats from Meloidogyne incognita, a critical plant-parasitic nematode. This study extensively examines the impact of M. incognita on the growth, physiological, and biochemical responses of C. moschata. We demonstrate that M. incognita infection leads to significant growth impairment in C. moschata, evidenced by reduced plant height and biomass, along with the significant development of nematode-induced galls. Concurrently, a pronounced oxidative stress response was observed, characterized by elevated levels of hydrogen peroxide and a significant increase in antioxidant defense mechanisms, including the upregulation of key antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, catalase, and peroxidase) and the accumulation of glutathione. These responses highlight a dynamic interaction between the plant and the nematode, wherein C. moschata activates a robust antioxidant defense to mitigate the oxidative stress induced by nematode infection. Despite these defenses, the persistence of growth impairment underscores the challenge posed by M. incognita to the agricultural production of C. moschata. Our findings contribute to the understanding of plant–nematode interactions, paving the way for the development of strategies aimed at enhancing resistance in Cucurbitaceae crops against nematode pests, thus supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

The Oomycete plant pathogen, Phytophthora capsici, causes root, crown, and fruit rot of winter squash (Cucurbita moschata) and limits production. Some C. moschata cultivars develop age-related resistance (ARR), whereby fruit develop resistance to P. capsici 14 to 21 days postpollination (DPP) because of thickened exocarp; however, wounding negates ARR. We uncovered the genetic mechanisms of ARR of two C. moschata cultivars, Chieftain and Dickenson Field, that exhibit ARR at 14 and 21 DPP, respectively, using RNA sequencing. The sequencing was conducted using RNA samples from ‘Chieftain’ and ‘Dickenson Field’ fruit at 7, 10, 14, and 21 DPP. A differential expression and subsequent gene set enrichment analysis revealed an overrepresentation of upregulated genes in functional categories relevant to cell wall structure biosynthesis, cell wall modification/organization, transcription regulation, and metabolic processes. A pathway enrichment analysis detected upregulated genes in cutin, suberin monomer, and phenylpropanoid biosynthetic pathways. A further analysis of the expression profile of genes in those pathways revealed upregulation of genes in monolignol biosynthesis and lignin polymerization in the resistant fruit peel. Our findings suggest a shift in gene expression toward the physical strengthening of the cell wall associated with ARR to P. capsici. These findings provide candidate genes for developing Cucurbita cultivars with resistance to P. capsici and improve fruit rot management in Cucurbita species.

Coprodutos como a casca e semente da abóbora são resíduos agroindustriais geralmente dispensados pelas indústrias processadoras de vegetais. Pesquisas atuais demonstram relevância de farinhas com alto teor de nutrientes, significativamente superior à polpa provindas de coprodutos. O presente trabalho objetivou determinar caraterísticas de composição centesimal, nutricional e antioxidante de farinhas advindas de coprodutos de abóbora (Cucurbita moschata). Determinou-se teores de umidade, cinza, pH, proteínas, lipídeos, carboidratos, amido danificado, compostos fenólicos, flavonoides, capacidade antioxidante total (CAOT) por redução do fosfomolibdênio e capacidade sequestrante do radical 1,1-difenil-2- picrihidrazil (DPPH). Todas as farinhas apresentaram teor de umidade semelhantes e em consonância ao estipulado pela ANVISA. Os resultados in vitro expressam uma maior quantidade de cinzas, proteínas e lipídeos na Farinha da Semente de Abóbora (FSA) em relação as Farinha da Casca de Abóbora (FCA) e Farinha da Polpa de Abóbora (FPA), em contrapartida as FCA e FPA apresentaram maiores teores de carboidratos e a FPA obteve um relevante teor amido danificado em relação as demais farinhas. A FCA apresentou maior teor de fenólicos totais em todas as concentrações, em relação aos teores de flavonoides a FSA foi superior às demais na concentração de 1% e menor que FCA+FSA em 5%. As FCA obtiveram maior CAOT nas concentrações em todas as concentrações e em 10% os resultados foram semelhantes para FCA e FCA+FSA. Os extratos da FCA e FSA apresentaram maior capacidade sequestrante do radical DPPH na contração de 5% e a menor ação antioxidante foi apresentada pela FSA em todas as concentrações do extrato. As farinhas apresentaram elevado teor de cinzas, proteínas, lipídeos e carboidratos, além de potencial antioxidante relevante, podendo contribuir para a redução do estresse oxidativo causado por radicais livres e sugere-se que seu uso como ingrediente alimentício é uma possibilidade interessante visto a alternativa de agregar valor ao resíduo.

Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.) productivity is severely hindered by powdery mildew (PM) worldwide. The causative agent of pumpkin PM is Podosphaera xanthii, a biotrophic fungus. Pathogenesis-related protein 1 (PR1) homolog was previously identified from transcriptomic analysis of a PM-resistant pumpkin. Here, we investigated the effects of CmPR1 gene from pumpkin for resistance to PM. Subcellular localization assay revealed that CmPR1 is a cytoplasmic protein in plants. The expression of CmPR1 gene was strongly induced by P. xanthii inoculation at 48 h and exogenous ethylene (ET), jasmonic acid (JA) and NaCl treatments, but repressed by H2O2 and salicylic acid (SA) treatments. Visual disease symptoms, histological observations of fungal growth and host cell death, and accumulation of H2O2 in transgenic tobacco plants indicated that CmPR1 overexpression significantly enhanced the resistance to Golovinomyces cichoracearum compared to wild type plants during PM pathogens infection, possibly due to inducing cell death and H2O2 accumulation near infected sites. The expression of PR1a was significantly induced in transgenic tobacco plants in response to G. cichoracearum, suggesting that CmPR1 overexpression positively modulates the resistance to PM via the SA signaling pathway. These findings indicate that CmPR1 is a defense response gene in C. moschata and can be exploited to develop disease-resistant crop varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chilling stress is one of the major abiotic constraints limiting cucurbit crop winter cultivation globally. Pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata) have been frequently used as a bloomless rootstock to enhance the fruit vigor and glossiness of cucumber (Cucumis sativus). Nonetheless, pumpkins are less tolerant to chilling stress than fig-leaf gourd (Cucurbita ficifolia), limiting their winter cultivation usage. Hence, it necessitates identifying chilling-tolerant pumpkin germplasm to identify the stress-responsive genes and to ease rootstock breeding in the face of unpredictable future climates. Our study considered the root fresh weight (RFW) and shoot fresh weight (SFW) growth under chilling stress as a tolerance index to assess the low-temperature tolerance to screen 407 pumpkin germplasm collection. Based on the preliminary characterization, we isolated the chilling-tolerant (IT 278592 [CT]) and the chilling-susceptible (IT 274039 [CS]) lines. The bulked-segregant analysis-assisted next-generation sequencing uncovered the existence of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variations in three genes, including CmoCh06G003170 (encodes for F4P12_330), CmoCh16G010790 (Nucleoredoxin 1 [CmoNRX1]), and CmoCh15G013730 (DNA binding with one finger (Dof) protein 4.6 [CmoDof4.6]), while comparing the allelic variations between the CT and CS lines. Accordingly, Sanger sequencing and polymorphic marker analysis also asserted the presence of missense mutations in the three candidate genes. Despite SNP variation in three genes, the qRT-PCR analysis uncovered the chilling stress-responsive expression only in the CmoDof4.6 gene. The CmoDof4.6 gene was downregulated in the CT line compared to the CS line in response to the chilling stress implying that it could be a potential candidate gene and needed further experimental attention. Altogether, we identified a novel chilling stress-responsive gene in pumpkin germplasm that could facilitate the identification and breeding of chilling-tolerant pumpkin rootstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-products such as pumpkin peel and seeds are agro-industrial residues generally discarded by vegetable processing industries. Current research demonstrates the importance of flours with a high content of nutrients, significantly higher than pulp from by-products. The present work aimed to determine the proximate, nutritional and antioxidant characteristics of flours derived from by-products of pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata). Moisture, ash, pH, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, damaged starch, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) by reduction of phosphomolybdenum and scavenging capacity of the radical 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryhydrazyl (DPPH). All flours had similar moisture content and within the stipulated by ANVISA. The in vitro results express a greater amount of ashes, proteins and lipids in Pumpkin Seed Flour (FSA) in relation to Pumpkin Peel Flour (FCA) and Pumpkin Pulp Flour (PPF), in contrast to FCA and PPF presented higher carbohydrate contents and the PPF obtained a relevant modified starch content in relation to the other flours. FCA had a higher total phenolic content in all concentrations, in terms of flavonoids, FSA was higher than the others at a concentration of 1% and lower than FCA+FSA at 5%. The FCA obtained higher TAC in the concentrations in all concentrations and in 10% the results were similar for FCA and FCA+FSA. The FCA and FSA extracts showed a greater DPPH radical scavenging capacity in the 5% contraction and the lowest antioxidant action was presented by the FSA in all extract concentrations. The flours had a high content of ash, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates, in addition to relevant antioxidant potential, which may contribute to the reduction of oxidative stress caused by free radicals and it is suggested that its use as a food ingredient is an interesting possibility given the alternative of adding value to waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transcription factor bHLH gene family plays fundamental roles in plant development and mitigating diverse biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the information of bHLH genes in pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) is still unknown. In this current study, 222 CmobHLH genes were identified and mapped onto different chromosomes through bioinformatics analysis in pumpkin. CmobHLH and AtbHLH proteins could be classified into 19 subfamilies according to the phylogenetic tree. CmobHLH proteins within the same subfamily had similar motif composition and gene structures. Gene ontology (GO), cis-regulatory elements (CREs) and protein–protein interaction analyses suggested the potential regulatory roles of CmobHLH genes during the plant development process and abiotic stresses response in pumpkin. Tissue expression patterns based on transcriptome data demonstrated that CmobHLH genes were involved in pumpkin development process, and they had unique functions in different tissues. The expression patterns of five selected CmobHLH genes after exposure to abiotic stresses showed that the CmobHLH genes played varied roles in the stress responses of pumpkin to NaCl, waterlogging, cold, ABA and drought. In brief, these findings offer important information for further functional research of CmobHLH genes and resistance breeding in pumpkin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rehydration behavior at 100 ± 2 °C with a solid:liquid ratio (m/m) of 1:100 for pumpkin cubes dehydrated by convective drying was determined by the Peleg model. The rehydration of the pumpkin cubes dehydrated by convection at 50, 60 and 70 °C had a good fit to the Peleg model, with the pumpkin cubes dried at 60 °C presenting the best fit. The volume of the dice increased over the rehydration time until it recovered its initial volume of 1 cm³. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata), the naked or hull-less seed phenotype has great benefits for breeding this crop for oil or snack use. We previously identified a naked seed mutant in this crop. In this study, we report genetic mapping, identification, and characterization of a candidate gene for this mutation. We showed that the naked seed phenotype is controlled by a single recessive gene (N). The bulked segregant analysis identified a 2.4 Mb region on Chromosome 17 with 15 predicted genes. Multiple lines of evidence suggested that CmoCh17G004790 is the most probable candidate gene for the N locus which encodes a NAC transcription factor WALL THICKENING PROMOTING FACTOR 1 (CmNST1). No nucleotide polymorphism or structural variation was found in the genomic DNA sequences of CmNST1 between the mutant and the wildtype inbred line (hulled seed). However, the cDNA sequence cloned from developing seed coat samples of the naked seed mutant was 112 bp shorter than that from the wildtype which is due to seed coat-specific alternative splicing in the second exon of the mutant CmNST1 transcript. The expression level of CmNST1 in the developing seed coat was higher in the mutant than in the wildtype during early seed coat development which was reversed later. Transcriptomic profiling with RNA-Seq at different stages of seed development in the mutant and wildtype revealed a critical role of CmNST1 as a master regulator for the lignin biosynthesis pathway during seed coat development while other NAC and MYB transcription factors were also involved in forming a regulatory network for the building of secondary cell walls. This work provides a novel mechanism for the well-characterized NST1 transcription factor gene in regulating secondary cell wall development. The cloned gene also provides a useful tool for marker-assisted breeding of hull-less C. moschata varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pumpkin is a product has phenolic compounds in its composition, both in the skin and in the pulp, and therefore, it can be an alternative for incorporation into a food matrix poor in this type of nutrient, such as yogurt. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the content of carotenoids from the processing by-product (dry peel, at 55 °C / 24 h), from cabotiá squash (Cucurbita maxima x Cucurbita moschata), aiming its application in natural yogurt. For the initial analysis, the concentrations of 1 and 2% flour were added to the yogurt, I1% and I2%, respectively, and the amount of carotenoids present after 0, 14 and 28 days was evaluated, in the absence and presence of light, in order to verify if these compounds suffer significant degradation. The pumpkin peel flour showed a concentration of 14.252 mg carotenoids / 100 g of flour. Formulations I2% underwent changes in the concentration of these compounds from day 14, whereas I1% did not show significant difference in the evaluated time. The total phenolic content was higher in the pumpkin peel flour (2.47 mg EAG / g) followed by the formulation of I2% (0.079 mg EAG / g) and I1% (0.051 mg EAG / g). When performing the sensory analysis, the attributes flavor, texture and overall appearance, did not show significant difference (p < 0.05), whereas texture and aroma showed significant difference (p < 0.05), but both formulations (I1% and I2%) had an acceptance rate above 77%. Thus, it can be said that the use of the by-product, pumpkin peel, as a source of nutrients in yogurt by up to 2%, can be an alternative that will please consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study color, texture, starch–pectin, total antioxidant capacity, microbial count, and microstructure of HPP-treated Violina pumpkin cubes were evaluated. Samples were treated at six different pressures (100 to 600 MPa–HPP100 to HPP600) for 3 min. Moisture, total soluble solids, and pH showed no significant differences between untreated (UNTR) and treated samples. Pumpkin tissue showed great structural modifications as changes in cell size and shape, cell wall damage, increased cell wall thickness, cell detachment and dehydration, and calcium ions deposition mainly from HPP300 to 600. UNTR samples showed the highest value of maximum and minimum cell elongation, perimeter segment, and a more regular cell wall thickness whereas HPP600 showed the lowest values for all these parameters. A noticeable difference was observed in HPP600 samples, with a difference in terms of color (ΔE 11.3 ± 1.9) and hardness (87.4 ± 27.8 N) compared to the UNTR ones (194.9 ± 37.9 N) whereas treatments at other pressures changed less markedly the color and texture. HPP200 could ensure a higher amount of starch and pectin availability while HPP200 and HPP400 showed the highest total antioxidants capacity. High-pressure treatment from HPP400 to 600 gave the highest destruction of microorganisms but negatively influenced the structural quality as well as texture and microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, AuNPs were biosynthesized from Cucurbita moschata fruit peel extracts. Biosynthesized AuNPs exhibited maximum absorbance at a 555 nm wavelength, and XRD analysis indicated that the CM-AuNPs had a particle size of less than 100 nm and a cubic crystal structure. TEM scans revealed that the gold particles exhibited a spherical morphology, with an average size of 18.10 nm. FTIR analysis revealed strong peaks indicating the presence of functional groups involved in the reduction reactions. The surface charge of the biosynthesized AuNPs was determined to be −19.7 mV. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of AuNPs against pathogen strains were assessed by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. The cytotoxic effects of CM-AuNPs on cancer cell lines (Sk-Ov-3, CaCo2, and A549) and healthy cell lines (HUVEC) were investigated using the MTT method. The findings indicated that AuNPs biosynthesized by the green synthesis method using C. moschata peel aqueous extract had high inhibition on the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and effective cytotoxic activity against cancerous cell lines at low doses. As a result, it can be concluded that CM-AuNPs will be eminently effective in the production of antibacterial and/or anticancer drugs in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries.

Fruit peel/pulp distribution of biologically active compounds is an important characteristic of plant physiology and the basis of zero waste production in agriculture. Among C. ficifolia, C. maxima and C. moschata the former showed the lowest dry matter content, especially in peel, similar peel and pulp values of antioxidant activity (AOA) and polyphenol content (TP), with the highest levels in fruit placenta. Peel carbohydrate profile of C. ficifolia fruit was characterized by lower levels of disaccharides compared to C. maxima and C. moschata peel and an opposite pattern of monosaccharides accumulation. The analysis of 25 elements content in Cucurbita peel and pulp, using ICP-MS, indicated that C. ficifolia fruit are characterized by significantly high concentrations of Sr, Si and I in pulp compared to the values of C. maxima and C. moschata. On the contrary, C. maxima and C. moschata were characterized by low concentration of pulp Mn. Highly significant positive correlations were recorded between Cr-Sr, Cr-Ca and CaSr (r=0.906; 0.939 and 0.974 respectively) and P-Cu (r=0.968). Despite C. ficifolia, does not contain carotenoids, it is highly valuable due to the high levels of Si, I, Cr and Ca in peel and pulp, which reveals new areas of its application.

DELLA gene family plays a key role in regulating plant development and responding to stress. Currently, many DELLA family members have been identified in plants, however, information on DELLA genes in pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) is scarce. In this study, physical and chemical properties, gene structure cis-regulatory elements and expression of CmoDELLA genes were examined in pumpkin. We found that seven CmoDELLA genes were identified in pumpkin, and they were unevenly classified into five chromosomes. CmoDELLA proteins were relatively unstable and their secondary structures were mainly made up α-helix and random coil. All seven CmoDELLA proteins contained typical DELLA domain and GRAS domain, however, motif numbers between CmoDELLA proteins were unevenly distributed, implying the complex evolution and functional diversification of CmoDELLA proteins. Cis-regulatory elements analysis revealed that CmoDELLA genes might play an essential role in regulating plant growth and development, and response to stress in pumpkin. Transcriptome data in the roots, stems, leaves and fruits demonstrated that CmoDELLA2, CmoDELLA3 and CmoDELLA7 were related to the stems development, CmoDELLA1, CmoDELLA4, CmoDELLA5 and CmoDELLA6 were associated with the fruits development. Furthermore, we found that CmoDELLA1 and CmoDELLA5 were up-regulated under NaCl stress. CmoDELLA1, CmoDELLA2, CmoDELLA3, CmoDELLA5, CmoDELLA6 and CmoDELLA7 were remarkably induced under waterlogging stress. While, all of the 7 CmoDELLA genes showed significantly induced expression under cold stress. The expression patterns under abiotic stress suggested that CmoDELLA genes might mediate the stress response of pumpkin to NaCl, waterlogging and cold, however, the functions of different CmoDELLA genes varied under different stress. Overall, our study provides valuable information for further research about the potential functions and regulatory networks of CmoDELLA genes in pumpkin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The BES1 (BRI1-EMSSUPPRESSOR1) gene family play a vital role in the BR (brassinosteroid) signaling pathway, which is involved in the growth and development, biotic, abiotic, and hormone stress response in many plants. However, there are few reports of BES1 in Cucurbita moschata. In this study, 50 BES1 genes were identified in six Cucurbitaceae species by genome-wide analysis, which could be classified into 3 groups according to their gene structural features and motif compositions, and 13 CmoBES1 genes in Cucurbita moschata were mapped on 10 chromosomes. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed that the CmoBES1 genes displayed differential expression under different abiotic stress and hormone treatments. Subcellular localization showed that the most of CmoBES1 proteins localized in nucleus and cytoplasm, and transactivation assay indicated 9 CmoBES1 proteins played roles as transcription factors. Our analysis of BES1s diversity, localization, and expression in Curcubitaceae contributes to the better understanding of the essential roles of these transcription factors in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Texture-modified pumpkin was developed by using vacuum enzyme impregnation to soften texture to tolerable limits for the elderly population with swallowing and chewing difficulties. The impregnation process and macrostructural and microstructural enzyme action were explored by the laser light backscattering imaging technique and a microscopic study by digital image analysis. Texture was analyzed by a compression assay. The effect of enzyme treatment on antioxidant capacity and sugar content was evaluated and compared to the traditional cooking effect. Image analysis data demonstrated the effectiveness of the impregnation process and enzyme action on plant cell walls. Enzyme-treated samples at the end of the process had lower stiffness values with no fracture point, significantly greater antioxidant capacity and significantly lower total and reducing sugars contents than traditionally cooked pumpkins. The results herein obtained demonstrate the capability of using vacuum impregnation treatment with enzymes to soften pumpkins and their positive effects on antioxidant capacity and sugar content to develop safe and sensory-accepted texture-modified products for specific elderly populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) seed flour on the lipid profile and biomarkers of liver function in an experimental dyslipidemia. The hamsters were divided into three groups: normal control group (n = 8) fed commercial feed; dyslipidemia control group (n = 8) with dyslipidemia induced by consumption of feed enriched with saturated fat and cholesterol (dyslipidemic diet with 13.5% coconut fat and 0.1% cholesterol); pumpkin seed group (n = 10), maintained on a dyslipidemic diet plus pumpkin seed flour. After 28 days of treatment, the treatment with a diet enriched with pumpkin seeds significantly reduced the serum triglycerides, increased the faecal excretion of cholesterol, and reduced the accumulation of lipids in the hepatocytes, thus decreasing the degree of hepatic steatosis. In the experimental model used in this study, pumpkin seed flour had a hypotriglyceridemic property and a hepatoprotective effect in relation to hepatic steatosis. [Display omitted] • Feeding enriched with pumpkin seeds reduced the serum triglycerides level. • Creole pumpkin seed flour increased the excretion of cholesterol in the faeces. • Pumpkin seeds reduced the degree of hepatic steatosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Powdery mildew (PM) is one of the major fungal diseases and can cause severe damage to pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) crops worldwide. The causative agent of pumpkin PM is Podosphaera xanthii, a biotrophic fungus. To identify PM-related genes in pumpkin seedlings, cDNA representational difference analysis was previously performed using a RNA-seq method. One of the genes cloned from the transcriptome is homologous to pumpkin MYBR1-like gene encoding the R1-type MYB-like transcription factor. Here, we characterized this MYBR1-like homolog (named CmMYB1) from pumpkin and investigated its role in biotic stresses. The expression of CmMYB1 in resistant pumpkin seedlings was dramatically induced by PM spores inoculation at the early infection stage (before 48 h), and was suppressed by exogenously sprayed hydrogen peroxide, hormones treatments (salicylic acid, abscisic acid, methyl jasmonate, ethephon), and salt stress using quantitative RT-PCR. Constitutive overexpression of CmMYB1 in tobacco slightly aggravated the visible mildew symptoms of leaves, H2O2 accumulation and cell necrosis in seedlings inoculated with PM pathogens. Furthermore, the expression of NPR1 and PDF1.2 in the transgenic plants was lower than that in the wild-type plants. On the other hand, following inoculations with bacterial wilt and scab pathogens, the concentrations of bacterial pathogens near the infection sites were higher in the transgenic lines than in the wild-type plants, respectively. In conclusions, overexpression of CmMYB1 in tobacco displayed increased susceptibility to PM, bacterial wilt and scab. CmMYB1 transgenic tobacco may reduce stress resistance by downregulating hormone-mediated defense genes to aggravate the leaf damage caused by PM. CmMYB1 may play negative roles in biotic stresses in tobacco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The purpose of this paper was to extract and compare two species of Syrian pumpkin (Cucurbita Maxima, Cucurbita Moschata) seeds, as defatted and as full-fat seeds. The extraction of the seeds was performed by ultrasonic using three different solvents (methanol 80%, ethanol 80% or water). Total phenol content (TPC) was determined by the Folin–Ciocalteu method, total flavonoids content (TFC) by the aluminium chloride colorimetric method, the radical scavenging activity by the chromatic change of DPPH, ABTS and reducing power assay by the reduction of FeIII to FeII in the solution (FRAP). The results showed that the highest yield of extraction were in aqueous extracts for both species at both fat level. While methanol 80% or ethanol 80% was better than water for TPC and TFC in extraction. The highest TPC was found in the methanolic extracts of both C. Maxima and C. Moschata full-fat seeds (16.22 ± 0.03 and 18.66 ± 0.13 mg GaE/g extract, respectively). DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assay results showed that C. Moschata full-fat seed methanolic extracts exhibited a free radical scavenging activity, expressed as IC50, and a reducing power greater than that of C. Maxima full-fat seed methanolic extracts. This may refer to a significant antioxidant capacity of C. Moschata full-fat seeds. Defatting process had significant effect on TPC and radical scavenging activity of DPPH, ABTS and FRAP of the two studied pumpkin species seed. While no significant effect on TFC using ethanol as solvent. Thus, full-fat extract increases the antioxidant capacity of the seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pumpkin is a rich source of antioxidants, phenolic compounds, dietary fiber, and minerals. It is also harvested in large quantities around the world. Therefore, the present investigation was undertaken to enhance the nutritional and functional properties of ice creams by fortification of two different varieties of pumpkins – Cucurbita moschata and Cucurbita maxima. Different processes - freeze-drying, boiling, and baking - were applied to pumpkins to compare and determine the optimal processing steps. In doing so, two different concentrations were operated for each application. The health-promoting effects of pumpkins were evaluated, and their effects on the functional and sensory properties of ice creams were determined. Raw pumpkins have 24.5-31.1 % total dietary fiber (TDF), 26.2-9.0 % antioxidant content in terms of DPPH scavenging activity, and 237.5-123.9 (mg GAE / 100 g DM) total phenolic content. While TDF did not change with heat treatment, antioxidant and phenolic contents decreased slightly. Mineral substance contents were also generally not affected by the heat treatment (P > 0.05). As a result, all types of applications were approved for their similarity to the control sample of microstructural, textural, sensorial, and other characteristics.

A 60-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of including pumpkin seeds and pomace in the diets of Pacific white shrimp Penaeus vannamei, and the effects of these supplements on growth performance, body composition, and total polyphenol, flavonoid and carotenoid contents, as well as on total antioxidant activity, and body color parameters. Five diets were evaluated: pumpkin seeds (PS) at 50 and 100 g·kg−1, pumpkin pomace (PP) at 50 and 100 g·kg−1, and a control treatment. Pacific white shrimp (P. vannamei) juveniles (0.60 ± 0.01 g) were stocked in 15 tanks (310 L), containing 30 shrimps per tank, and the treatments were randomly distributed in triplicate. At the end of the experiment, shrimps were euthanized, weighed, and dissected for further analyses. The inclusion of PS in the diets impaired growth performance, reduced the total flavonoid content and had a pro-oxidative effect on muscle. The inclusion of PP in the diets did not affect growth performance, improved the feed conversion ratio, increased the total flavonoid content in the diets and hepatopancreas, and improved the antioxidant activity of the feeds and shrimp muscle. The total carotenoid content of the feeds increased with the inclusion of PS or PP in the diets; however, the total carotenoid content of shrimp increased only in those fed PP diets. Shrimp fed with PS diets showed a yellowish color and higher saturation when fresh and a reddish color and yellow hue angle after cooking. Shrimp fed PP diets turned reddish and yellowish, both when fresh and after cooking. The inclusion of PS in P. vannamei diets is not recommended; however, PP can be included at 100 g·kg−1 without affecting the growth parameters. Further studies evaluating the inclusion of higher PP levels in shrimp diets are recommended.

Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) undergoes several cooking processes before consumption, leading to alterations in both its physical attributes and chemical composition. Therefore, the objective of this work is to evaluate the effect of different cooking treatments (convection oven, steaming, microwaving, and boiling) on bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity in different pumpkin cultivars: Cuyano INTA, Dorado INTA, Paquito INTA, and Cokena INTA. The results showed high variability in the concentration of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity between the cultivars (p < 0.001). The stability of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity after cooking was found to be genotype × cooking treatment interaction dependent (p < 0.001). Nevertheless, the free radical scavenging activity exhibited by cooked pumpkins was found to be high, in the range of 69.93 to 256.44 µM Trolox g−1 fw.

The problem of food with functional ingredients, characterized by low energy intake and a variety of phytonutrients with biological activity, is one of the concerns of the population. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of pumpkin powder and its bioactive components on the quality, color and textural properties of shortbread cookies. In the drying process of pumpkin powder (Cucurbita moschata) at 60 ± 2 °C, the physicochemical parameters did not change significantly in relation to fresh pulp. The chromatic parameters L*, a* and b* showed that the pumpkin powder was brighter than the pulp, with a greater presence of yellow pigments. Pumpkin powder presented a rich source of bioactive compounds (polyphenols flavonoids, carotenoids) with an antioxidant potential of 161.52 mmol TE/100 g DW and 558.71 mg GAE/100 g DW. Antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus), Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella Abony and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria and high antifungal activity against Candida albicans were attested. The sensory, physicochemical, texture parameters and color indicators of shortbread cookies with yellow pumpkin powder (YPP) added in a proportion of 5–20% were analyzed. The optimal score was given to the sample of 15% YPP. The use of 15–20% YPP contributed to improved consistency due to the formation of complexes between starch and protein.