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

PurposeOur preclinical studies showed that lycopene enhanced the anti-prostate cancer efficacy of docetaxel in animal models. A phase I trial (NCT0149519) was conducted to identify an optimum dose of synthetic lycopene in combination with docetaxel (and androgen blockade [androgen deprivation therapy, ADT]), and to evaluate its effect on the safety and pharmacokinetics of docetaxel in men with metastatic prostate cancer.MethodsSubjects were treated with 21-day cycles of 75 mg/m2 docetaxel (and ADT), plus lycopene at 30, 90 or 150 mg/day. A Bayesian model averaging continual reassessment method was used to guide dose escalation. Pharmacokinetics of docetaxel and multiple correlative studies were carried out.ResultsTwenty-four participants were enrolled, 18 in a dose escalation cohort to define the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and six in a pharmacokinetic cohort. Docetaxel/ADT plus 150 mg/day synthetic lycopene resulted in dose-limiting toxicity (pulmonary embolus) in one out of 12 participants with an estimated probability of .106 and thus was chosen as the MTD. Lycopene increased the AUCinf and Cmax of plasma docetaxel by 9.5% and 15.1%, respectively. Correlative studies showed dose-related changes in circulating endothelial cells and vascular endothelial growth factor A, and reduction in insulin-like growth factor 1R phosphorylation, associated with lycopene therapy.ConclusionsThe combination of docetaxel/ADT and synthetic lycopene has low toxicity and favourable pharmacokinetics. The effects of lycopene on biomarkers provide additional support for the toxicity-dependent MTD definition.HighlightsThe maximum tolerated dose was identified as 150 mg/day of lycopene in combination with docetaxel/ADT for the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer patients. Small increases in plasma exposure to docetaxel were observed with lycopene co-administration. Mechanistically significant effects were seen on angiogenesis and insulin-like growth factor 1 signalling by lycopene co-administration with docetaxel/ADT.

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

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

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

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

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

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this study was to investigate an ultrasound-assisted method for the extraction of bioactive compounds from tomato pomace. This method was based on a simple ultrasound treatment using different solvents (e.g., acetone, ethanol, ethyl acetate) as extraction media. Three different variables were chosen to determine their influence on extraction efficiency, such as solvent/liquid ratio (0.1:25 g/mL, 0.2:25 g/mL, 0.3:25 g/mL), temperature (30 °C, 40 °C, 50 °C), and time (2 h, 6 h, 10 h); the variables were selected through Box–Behnken design experiments. These parameters were optimized to achieve the highest yield, and the results showed that acetone was the best extraction solvent for lycopene (3.36 mg/100 g), total phenolic content (TPC) (31.15 QUE mg/L), and total flavone content (TFC) (66.80 GAE mg/L), while DPPH activity (82.94%) was the highest when ethanol was used as the solvent. Regarding the solvent/liquid ratio, the best results were obtained at a ratio of 0.1:25. Temperature influenced the extraction, with the best results observed at 50 °C for lycopene, DPPH, and polyphenols, while the flavonoids were better extracted at 30 °C. Time played an important role as well, with the best extractions observed at 10 h. The results indicated that ultrasound-assisted extraction was suitable for extracting bioactive compounds from tomato pomace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphenols are plant metabolites with potential anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects, which may be advantageous for disorders like colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite promising in vitro and in vivo evidence, human clinical trials have yielded mixed results. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical evidence of polyphenols for CRC prevention or treatment. A systematic review was performed according to PRISMA. Based on a PROSPERO registered protocol (CRD42024560044), online databases (PubMed and COCHRANE) were utilized for the literature search. A total of 100 studies articles were initially identified. After reviewing, 12 studies with a low risk of bias were selected, examining the effect of a variety of compounds. Curcumin demonstrated promise in various trials, mainly decreasing inflammatory cytokines, though results varied, and it did not lower intestinal adenomas or improve outcomes after chemotherapy. Neither epigallocatechin gallate nor artepillin C reduced the incidence of adenomas. Finally, fisetin seemed to improve the inflammatory status of patients under chemotherapy (5-fluorouracil). In summary, although certain polyphenols appear to exert some effect, their role in the prevention or treatment of CRC is inconclusive, and more clinical studies under more controlled conditions are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Copyright of Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The antioxidant activities of lycopene (LY), lutein (LU), chlorogenic acid (CA), and delphinidin (DP) were tested in vitro on H9c2 cell-based models. Some indicators, such as the generation of reactive oxygen (ROS), the quantification of cell antioxidant activity (CAA), and the expressions of SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT, were calculated to examine their antioxidant interactions. From our results, the phytochemical mixtures (M1: CA-LU: F3/10, M2: DP-CA: F7/10, M3: DP-LY: F5/10) displayed strong synergistic effects based on the generation of ROS and the quantification of CAA. However, great antagonistic bioactivities were seen in the combinations of LY-LU: F5/10 (M4), CA-LU: F9/10 (M5), and DP-LY: F7/10 (M6). Western blotting analysis indicated that the possible mechanism underlying the synergistic antioxidant interactions among phytochemical combinations was to enhance the accumulation of Nrf2 in the nucleus and the expression of its downstream antioxidant enzymes, HO-1 and GCLC. The combinations (M1–M3 groups) showed significant protection against the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential than individual groups to avoid excessive ROS production. The M4–M6 groups exerted antagonistic protective effects compared with the individual groups. In addition, lutein and lycopene absorption was improved more because of the presence of chlorogenic acid and delphinidin in the M1 and M3 groups, respectively. However, delphinidin significantly reduced the cellular uptake of lycopene in the M6 group. It appeared that antioxidant interactions of phytochemical combinations may contribute to the restoration of cellular redox homeostasis and lead to an improvement in diet quality and collocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetables and legume soups contain various essential and bioactive constituents such as vitamin C, carotenoids, and phenolics. Antioxidant activity characteristics related to those compounds are well known to contribute profusely to human health. The cooking technique affects the bioavailability of nutrients and bioactive compounds, making it crucial to explore optimal alternatives to maximize them. The objective of this study was to explore the influence of different cooking techniques (boiling, pressure cooking, sous-vide, and cook-vide) on the physicochemical properties and bioactive characteristics of a ready-to-eat vegetable lentil soup. For this, the bioaccessibility of those compounds was assessed through an in vitro simulated gastrointestinal methodology. The firmness of vegetables was established to define treatments' cooking times, allowing subsequent comparison of the nutritional and functional properties of the soups. The color of vegetables was also evaluated as a quality parameter, which contributed to providing a global vision of the process impact. The results revealed that in vitro digestion (IVD) caused a decrease in all bioactive compound determinations for all cooking treatments of up to 72% for total phenols, 92% for lycopene, 98% for carotenoids, and 100% for vitamin C. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of the soups after thermal treatment improved up to 46% measured by the DPPH method. This study emphasizes the importance of considering the digestion process in the selection of the most adequate cooking technique. After IVD, traditional cooking (boiling) reached the maximum total carotenoid and lycopene contents; cook-vide and pressure-cooking techniques provided the highest total phenol content, showing these three techniques to have the maximum antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoid-rich foods such as citrus fruits have a wide range of functions in human health. They primarily exert antioxidant effects, but individual carotenoids may also act through other health-promoting mechanisms such as β-carotene as pro-vitamin A. Here, we show that red-fleshed sweet oranges grown in tropical climates are 4–9 times richer in carotenoids than their orange-fleshed counterparts, regardless of their maturation stage. The most significant difference observed between both varieties was the presence of lycopene at moderate concentrations (around 8 µg/g FW) in the mature pulp of the red varieties, which was absent in the blond ones. This is because the red-fleshed sweet oranges grown in tropical climates with high temperatures increase lycopene and β-carotene concentrations in their pulp during fruit maturation. Due to lycopene accumulation, red orange juice offers a promising addition to popular blond-orange, with the new varieties Carrancas and Pinhal being perfectly suitable for blending to enhance juice colour. Sao Paulo, one of the world's leading citrus orange juice producers, as well as other tropical citrus regions could benefit from cultivating using such lycopene-rich cultivars and industrially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The floral color phenotypes of Osmanthus fragrans cultivars range from light yellow to orange yellow, with 'Yanzhi Hong' being the only reported cultivar with a red color. However, the underlying reason for this unique floral coloration remains unclear. The study conducted targeted metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses on the petals of 'Yanzhi Hong' at both initial and peak flowering stages. Candidate gene expression was validated, and expression levels of the petals of three cultivars were compared using RT-qPCR. The results revealed the presence of 27 components in the petals of 'Yanzhi Hong', including 5 carotenoids, 8 xanthophylls, and 14 xanthophyll esters. Notably, lycopene was detected in abundance for the first time in O. fragrans cultivars. Carotenes accounted for 78.82 ± 3.17% and 91.19 ± 1.69% of the total carotenoid content in petals during the initial and peak flowering stages, respectively, with all carotene contents increasing during the peak flowering period. β-carotene, lycopene, and γ-carotene were identified as the top three carotene components in petals during both initial and full flowering stages. The unique blush red color of 'Yanzhi Hong' petals could be attributed to the low content of α-carotene and the rich accumulation of lycopene. Furthermore, a total of 1550 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in petals at the peak flowering stage relative to the initial flowering stage, with 1003 genes being downregulated and 547 genes being upregulated during the full flowering stage. There are 926 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) annotated in the Gene Ontology (GO) database. Among these DEGs, those that were downregulated and upregulated during the peak flowering period showed significant enrichment in carbohydrate metabolism and oxidation–reduction processes, respectively. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis identified 14 structural genes associated with phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and 7 structural genes linked to carotenoid biosynthesis. Expression levels of candidate genes involved in carotenoid biosynthesis were examined in the petals of three cultivars ('Yanzhi Hong', 'Liuye Jingui', and 'Gecheng Dangui') at both the initial and peak flowering stages. The results indicated that the decreased expression of LYG009054 (LYCE) and LYG018651 (LYCB) in 'Yanzhi Hong' resulted in higher lycopene accumulation and lower α-carotene content in the petals. This study offers valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the unique flower color phenotype of O. fragrans, proving a basis for further research on carotenoid metabolism pathways and the breeding of new cultivars with a variety of flower colors in O. fragrans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants, wild type Ailsa Craig, and carotenoid mutant tangerine that accumulates prolycopene instead of all-trans-lycopene were exposed to a combined treatment by low light and low temperature for 5 days. The ability of plants to recover from the stress after development for 3 days at control conditions was followed as well. The suffered oxidative stress was evaluated by the extent of pigment content, lipid peroxidation, membrane stability, and H2O2 generation. The level of MDA content under combined treatment in tangerine implies that the mutant demonstrates lower sensitivity to stress in comparison with Ailsa Craig. The oxidative protective strategy of plants was estimated by following the antioxidant and antiradical activity of phenolic metabolites, including anthocyanins, as well as the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and catalase (CAT). Presented results revealed that the oxidative stress was much stronger expressed after exposure of both types of plants to low light combined with low temperature compared to that after treatment with only low light. The most significant antioxidant protection was provided by phenolic substances, including anthocyanins. The lower sensitivity of tangerine plants to low light can be attributed to the higher activity of the antioxidant enzyme CAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Use of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) with reduced processing times is gaining traction in the food industry as an alternative to conventional thermal treatment. In order to enhance functional benefits while minimizing processing losses, functionalized products are being developed with such novel techniques. In this study, changes in quality parameters for HHP treated enriched tomato sauce were evaluated, with the aim to assess its viability as an alternative to conventional thermal treatment methods.HHP treatments at 500 MPa, 30 °C/50 °C significantly increased the total phenolic and lycopene content of the sauce samples, achieving 6.7% and 7.5% improvements over conventionally treated samples. The antioxidant capacity of the HHP‐treated samples was also found to match or be better than conventionally treated samples. Furthermore, a T2 relaxation time study revealed that pressure–temperature processing treatments were effective in maintaining the structural integrity of water molecules. Microbiological analyses revealed that 500 MPa/50 °C 5 min treatment can offer 8 logs reduction colony formation, matching the results of conventional thermal treatment.Combined pressure–temperature treatments improve results, reduce time consumption. 500 MPa/50 °C treatments provided retention of quality parameters and significant reduction in microbial activity. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we studied the direct and indirect plant protection effects of an Artemisia absinthium essential oil (AEO) on tomato seedlings against Fusarium oxysporum sp. oxysporum radicis lycopersici (Fol). AEO exhibited a toxic effect in vitro against Fol. Additionally, tomato seedlings germinated from seeds pretreated with AEO and grown hydroponically were protected against Fol. Plant disease symptoms, including, water and fresh weight loss, tissue necrosis, and chlorosis were less pronounced in AEO-treated seedlings. AEO also contributed to plant defenses by increasing callose deposition and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on seed surfaces without affecting seed germination or plant development. The essential oil seed coating also primed a durable tomato seedling defense against the fungus at later stages of plant development. RNA-seq and metabolomic analysis performed on seedlings after 12 days showed that the AEO treatment on seeds induced transcriptomic and metabolic changes. The metabolomic analysis showed an induction of vanillic acid, coumarin, lycopene, oleamide, and an unknown metabolite of m/z 529 in the presence of Fol. The StNRPD2 gene, the second largest component of RNA polymerases IV and V directly involved in de novo cytosine methylation by RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM), was highly induced in the presence of AEO. The host methionine cycle (MTC) controlling trans-methylation reactions, was also altered by AEO through the high induction of S-adenosyl methionine transferases (SAMts). Our results suggest that AEO treatment could induce de novo epigenetic changes in tomato, modulating the speed and extent of its immune response to Fol. The EO-seed coating could be a new strategy to prime durable tomato resistance, compatible with other environmentally friendly biopesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

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

Background: Tomato, a fruit with a high vitamin content, is popular for consumption and economically important in Thailand. However, in the past year, the extensive usage of chemicals has significantly decreased tomato yields. Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) is an alternative that can help improve tomato production system growth and yield quality while using fewer chemicals. The present study aimed to determine whether endophytic actinomycetes promote growth and fruit quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Methods: The experiment was conducted in a net-houses at the Center for Agricultural Resource System Research, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai province, Thailand. The randomized completely block design (RCBD) was carried out for four treatments with three replications, which was control, inoculation with TGsR-03-04, TGsL-02-05 and TGsR-03-04 with TGsL-02-05 in tomato plant. Isolated Actinomycetes spp. of each treatment was then inoculated into the root zone of tomato seedlings and analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The height of tomato plants was measured at 14, 28, 56, and 112 days after transplanting. Final yield and yield quality of tomato was assessed at the maturity phase. Results: The SEM result illustrated that the roots of tomato seedlings from all treatments were colonized by endophytic actinomycetes species. This contributed to a significant increase in plant height at 14 days after transplanting (DAT), as found in the TGsR-03-04 treatment (19.40 cm) compared to the control. Besides, all inoculated treatments enhanced tomato yield and yield quality. The highest weight per fruit (47.38 g), fruit length (52.37 mm), vitamin C content (23.30 mg 100 g−1), and lycopene content (145.92 µg g−1) were obtained by inoculation with TGsR-03-04. Moreover, the highest yield (1.47 kg plant−1) was obtained by inoculation with TGsL-02-05. There was no statistically significant difference in the number of fruits per plant, fruit width, brix, and antioxidant activity when various inoculations of endophytic actinomycetes were applied. Therefore, the use of endophytic actinomycetes in tomato cultivation may be an alternative to increase tomato yield and yield quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and its toxicity in the arterial wall have been implicated in atherosclerosis. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the atheroprotective effect of bixin, a carotenoid obtained from the seeds of the tropical plant Bixa orellana, on Cu2+-induced LDL oxidation and oxLDL-mediated effects in J774A.1 macrophage cells. Bixin's effects were compared to those of lycopene, a carotenoid widely studied for its cardiovascular protective effects. LDL was isolated from human plasma, incubated with bixin or lycopene (positive control), and subjected to oxidation with CuSO4. Afterward, bixin or lycopene was incubated with J774A.1 macrophage cells and exposed to oxLDL. The levels of ROS, RNS, GSH, nitrite, mitochondrial function, and foam cell formation, as well as the expression of proteins related to the antioxidant and inflammatory status, were evaluated. The effect of bixin in inhibiting in vitro human-isolated LDL oxidation was more potent (5–6-fold) than that of lycopene. Bixin pretreatment reduced the atherogenic signaling triggered by oxLDL in the macrophages, namely the generation of reactive species, disturbance of nitric oxide homeostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and foam cell formation. The cytoprotective effects of bixin were accompanied by the upregulation of Nrf2 and the downregulation of the NF-kB pathways. Lycopene showed the same protective effect as bixin, except that it did not prevent mitochondrial dysfunction. The efficient performance of bixin makes it an ideal candidate for further trials as a new nutraceutical compound for the prevention of atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to characterize different colored lines of cherry tomatoes and derive information regarding their metabolite accumulation. Different colored cherry tomato cultivars, namely 'Jocheong', 'BN Satnolang', 'Gold Chance', 'Black Q', and 'Snacktom', were assessed for their firmness, taste characteristics, and nutritional metabolites at the commercial ripening stage. The cultivars demonstrated firmness to withstand impacts during harvesting and postharvest operations. The significant variations in the Brix to acid ratio (BAR) and the contents of phenylalanine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid highlight the distinct taste characteristics among the cultivars, and the nutritional metabolites are associated with the color of the cultivars. The cultivar choices would be the black-colored 'Black Q' for chlorophylls, β-carotene, total flavonoids, and anthocyanins; the red-colored 'Snacktom' for lycopene; the orange-colored 'Gold Chance' for total phenolics; and the green-colored 'Jocheong' for chlorophylls, vitamin C, GABA, glutamic acid, essential amino acids, and total free amino acids. The antioxidant capacity varied among the cultivars, with 'Gold Chance' consistently exhibiting the highest activity across the four assays, followed by 'Snacktom'. This study emphasizes the importance of screening cultivars to support breeding programs for improving the nutritional content and encourages the inclusion of a diverse mix of different colored cherry tomatoes in packaging to obtain the cumulative or synergistic effects of secondary metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The foliar application of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) suspensions is a widely used small-scale horticultural practice against stress impacts and to boost vegetative and nutritional characteristics. In this study, the impact of two strains of S. cerevisiae was investigated on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and rocket (Eruca sativa L.) plants in terms of vegetative growth and nutritional content, focusing on antioxidant properties (FRAP, DPPH, TPC, lycopene) and chlorophyll content. The treatments were applied in two dilutions (0.1 and 1% v/v) and two frequencies (once and three times). When the type strain solutions were applied, DPPH values of both tomato and rocket samples were elevated up to 7.18 and 17.98 i%, respectively, compared to control values of 6.26 and 14.11 i%, respectively. While the other investigated antioxidant traits (FRAP, TPC, lycopene) were identical or slightly lower, than the control values, total chlorophyll content was significantly increased for tomato, up to 61.18 g/100 g, from the control value of 53.46 g/100 g, and for rocket, reaching 43.14 g/100 g, from the control value of 39.13 g/100 g, after using instant yeast solutions. Among the combinations, the double-sprayed 1% suspension and the single-sprayed 0.1% suspension had the most favorable impact on the investigated nutritional traits. Species-level application technology details are still open for refinements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet cherry grown under sustainable management produces highly valuable fruits, whose quality shows important biochemical and morphological changes during ripening. Research was carried out in Iasi (Romania), with the aim to assess the quality characteristics of the sweet cherry fruits of three cultivars (Van, Andreiaș, Margonia), grown in an inner or outer position inside the tree crown, at the pre-ripening or full ripeness phase. In 2022, the colour component a* showed higher values in cv. Van and Andreias red fruits and in an inner position, whereas the components L* and b* at the full ripeness phase were highest in cv. Margonia. The dry matter and total soluble solids contents increased from the pre-ripening to the full ripeness phase and were highest in cv. Van sweet cherry fruits; the DM of fruit from the outer part of crown was higher than that of fruit from the inner part at the pre-ripening phase. The content of phenolics was the highest in cv. Margonia fruits at the pre-ripening stage and in cv. Van at the full ripeness phase and higher in the inner tree crown zones. The cultivar Margonia generally showed the highest vitamin C content in both years and development phases. The yellow fruit cv. Margonia mostly showed the highest values of chlorophyll a and b. The fruit's content of carotene, lycopene, and anthocyanins was generally the highest in the red fruits of cv. Andreias. The examined sweet cherry cultivars showed a high variability in fruit nutritional quality and proved to be a rich source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imidacloprid (IMI) is a commonly used new-generation pesticide that has numerous harmful effects on non-targeted organisms, including animals. This study analysed both the adverse effects on the pancreas following oral consumption of imidacloprid neonicotinoids (45 mg/kg daily for 30 days) and the potential protective effects of lycopene (LYC) administration (10 mg/kg/day for 30 days) with IMI exposure in male Sprague–Dawley rats. The apoptotic, pyroptotic, inflammatory, oxidative stress, and endoplasmic reticulum stress biomarkers were evaluated, along with the histopathological alterations. Upon IMI administration, noticeable changes were observed in pancreatic histopathology. Additionally, elevated oxidative/endoplasmic reticulum-associated stress biomarkers, inflammatory, pyroptotic, and apoptotic biomarkers were also observed following IMI administration. LYC effectively reversed these alterations by reducing oxidative stress markers (e.g., MDA) and enhancing antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT). It downregulated ER stress markers (IRE1α, XBP1, CHOP), decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β), and suppressed pyroptotic (NLRP3, caspase-1) along with apoptotic markers (Bax, cleaved caspase-3). It also improved the histopathological and ultrastructure alterations brought on by IMI toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Utilising biofertilizers is a sustainable alternative of integrated nutrient management in plants. Commercialized biofertilizers for non-legumes include Azotobacter and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), without reported adverse effects on human health, including consumption of raw salad vegetables. However, no commercial biofertilizers for non-legumes are based on rhizobia, despite proven human safety from decades of legume inoculation research. A comparative analysis investigating the yield of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), and content of Lycopene, Vitamin C and antioxidants was undertaken to assess the potential commercial viability of Rhizobium as a biofertilizer for non-leguminous plants. Rhizobium amendment gave a lesser yield of tomatoes (3 ± 1) compared to Azotobacter (4 ± 1), but was better than the control (2 ± 1), and PSB (2 ± 1). It showed highest lycopene content (0.7 ± 0.02 mg/100 g) compared to other amendments. The Vitamin C (32.4 ± 0.01 mg/100 g) with Rhizobium amendment surpassed that of Azotobacter (24.9 ± 0.09 mg/100 g) and control (12.84 ± 0.03 mg/100 g). Antioxidant activity of cherry tomatoes grown in Rhizobium-amended soil, was 1.34 times higher than chemically-fertilized plant yield. This study therefore affirms the suitability of rhizobia as a biofertilizer for stimulating the growth and productivity of non-leguminous plants such as tomato (S. lycopersicum) and its potential to be commercialized for use in non-leguminous plants.

الملخص: أهداف البحث: يتطور الإجهاد التأكسدي بسبب اضطراب في توازن مضادات الأكسدة الداعمة للأول ويمكن وصفه بأنه اضطراب في إشارات الأكسدة والاختزال والتحكم فيها. يعد السيليكوكسيب، وهو مثبط انتقائي لـ''كوكس-2''، دواء فعالا لتسكين الألم والالتهاب. ومع ذلك، ثبت أن السيليكوكسيب يسبب إصابة مؤكسدة للأنسجة الكبدية عن طريق بيروكسيد الدهون المعزز الذي يؤدي إلى الإنتاج المفرط لأنواع الأكسجين التفاعلية. ولذلك فإن استخدامه المتكرر أو على المدى الطويل قد يؤدي إلى آثار جانبية كبدية وكلوية وغيرها من الآثار الجانبية الملحوظة. الليكوبين (لايكو) هو أحد مضادات الأكسدة القوية التي تتواجد بشكل طبيعي في الفواكه والخضروات المصبوغة. وهو مزيل نشط للأكسجين المفرد والجذور الحرة الأخرى وبالتالي حماية الخلايا من هدم غشاء البلازما الذي تسببه الجذور الحرة. طريقة البحث: افترضت الدراسة أن اللايكو قد يحمي خلايا كبد الفئران من الإجهاد التأكسدي الناجم عن السيليكوكسيب، مما يقلل من تسلل الدهون واستنفاد الجليكوجين. تم تقسيم الفئران بشكل عشوائي إلى ثلاث مجموعات (10 فئران / مجموعة): المجموعة الضابطة أ (المحلول الملحي فقط)، المجموعة ب السيليكوكسيب (50 مجم / كجم، عن طريق الفم)، المجموع ج السيليكوكسيب+اللايكو (50 مجم / كجم، عن طريق الفم) لمدة 30 يوما. بعد ذلك، تم فحص أنسجة الكبد لمعرفة متوسط وزن الكبد والتغيرات النسيجية في محتوى الدهون والجليكوجين. النتائج: خفف اللايكو من تلف خلايا الكبد في الفئران المعالجة بـ السيليكوكسيب، مما قلل من تراكم الدهون وفقدان الجليكوجين، على الأرجح من خلال خصائصه المضادة للأكسدة. يمكن أن يؤدي تناول اللايكو و السيليكوكسيب المصاحب إلى منع الآثار الجانبية السامة للكبد فيما يتعلق بالإصابة التأكسدية التي يتبعها مرض الكبد الدهني غير الكحولي، وهو أحد مكونات متلازمة التمثيل الغذائي الرئيسية. علاوة على ذلك، كشف اتجاه ربط اللايكوبين في موقع الربط لإنزيم ''كوكس-2'' أن المركب المرسى أظهر قوة ربط كبيرة. الاستنتاجات: في الختام، تكشف دراستنا عن سلوك حماية اللايكوبين ضد تلف الكبد الناجم عن السيليكوكسيب عن طريق تقليل استنزاف الدهون والجليكوجين. Abstract: Objective: Oxidative stress develops because of a shift in the prooxidant–antioxidant balance toward the former, because of disturbances in redox signaling and control. Celecoxib (Cb), a selective COX-2 inhibitor, is a drug that effectively decreases pain and inflammation. However, Cb causes oxidative injury to hepatic tissues via enhanced lipid peroxidation, thus resulting in excessive production of reactive oxygen species. Consequently, frequent or long-term Cb use may lead to hepatic, renal, and other noticeable adverse effects. Lycopene (lyco), a potent antioxidant naturally occurring in pigmented fruits and vegetables, actively eradicates singlet oxygen and other free radicals, thereby protecting cells against destruction of the plasma membrane by free radicals. Methods: We hypothesized that lyco might protect rat liver cells against Cb-induced oxidative stress, thus reducing fatty infiltration and glycogen depletion. Rats were randomized into three groups (with ten rats each) receiving control (group A, saline only), Cb (group B, 50 mg/kg, orally), or Cb + lyco (group C, 50 mg/kg, orally) for 30 days. Subsequently, liver tissues were examined, and the average liver weight and histological changes in fat and glycogen content were determined. Results: Lyco mitigated hepatocyte damage in Cb-treated rats, reducing fat accumulation and glycogen loss, probably through its antioxidant properties. Concomitant lyco and Cb intake prevented hepatotoxic adverse effects due to oxidative injury, as well as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a key component of metabolic syndrome. Moreover, the binding orientation of lyco in the binding site of COX-2 enzyme revealed that the docked complex had noteworthy binding strength. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study revealed lyco's protective effects against Cb-induced hepatic damage by reducing fat and glycogen depletion.

Abstract Greenhouses located at high latitudes and in cloudy areas often experience a low quality and quantity of light, especially during autumn and winter. This low daily light integral (DLI) reduces production rate, quality, and nutritional value of many crops. This study was conducted on Sakhiya RZ F1 tomato plants to evaluate the impact of LED lights on the growth and nutritional value of tomatoes in a greenhouse with low daily light due to cloudy weather. The treatments included LED growth lights in three modes: top lighting, intra-canopy lighting, and combined top and intra-canopy lighting. The results showed that although the combined top and intra-canopy lighting reached the maximum increase in tomato yield, exposure to intra-canopy LED lighting alone outperformed in tomato fruit yield increase (28.46%) than exposure to top LED lighting alone (12.12%) when compared to no supplemental lighting during the entire production year. Intra-canopy exposure demonstrated the highest increase in tomato lycopene (31.3%), while top and intra-canopy lighting exhibited the highest increase in vitamin C content (123.4%) compared to the control. The LED light treatment also had a very positive effect on the expression of genes responsible for metabolic cycles, including Psy1, LCY-β, and VTC2 genes, which had collinearity with the increase in tomato fruit production.

The flesh color of pummelo (Citrus maxima) fruits is highly diverse and largely depends on the level of carotenoids, which are beneficial to human health. It is vital to investigate the regulatory network of carotenoid biosynthesis to improve the carotenoid content in pummelo. However, the molecular mechanism underlying carotenoid accumulation in pummelo is not fully understood. In this study, we identified a novel histone methyltransferase gene, CgSDG40, involved in carotenoid regulation by analyzing the flesh transcriptome of typical white-fleshed pummelo, red-fleshed pummelo and extreme-colored F1 hybrids from a segregated pummelo population. Expression of CgSDG40 corresponded to flesh color change and was highly coexpressed with CgPSY1. Interestingly, CgSDG40 and CgPSY1 are located physically adjacent to each other on the chromosome in opposite directions, sharing a partially overlapping promoter region. Subcellular localization analysis indicated that CgSDG40 localizes to the nucleus. Overexpression of CgSDG40 significantly increased the total carotenoid content in citrus calli relative to that in wild type. In addition, expression of CgPSY1 was significantly activated in overexpression lines relative to wild type. Taken together, our findings reveal a novel histone methyltransferase regulator, CgSDG40, involved in the regulation of carotenoid biosynthesis in citrus and provide new strategies for molecular design breeding and genetic improvement of fruit color and nutritional quality.

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

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

Purpose: Lycopene (LYC) is a natural carotenoid, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Nevertheless, its inherent instability has hindered oral formulation and administration due to sensitivity of LYC to environmental conditions. Methods: We tested different methods of tomato extraction to provide an extract with the highest yield of extracted LYC and prepared double coated pellets to enhance the physiochemical properties of LYC and improve its efficacy. The pellets were prepared by extrusion-spheronization technique and were coated by Eudragit L 100 − 55 to protect LYC from gastric acidic pH. To increase the protection of LYC from environmental conditions and provide an opaque, thick layer on the pellets, a layer of sugar-coating was added around the film-coated pellets. Particle size, sphericity, morphology, dissolution, and stability of the pellets were analyzed. Results: The highest yield of extracted LYC achieved by the mixture of ethyl acetate-acetone (1:1 v/v) applying for 5 h at 40 °C. The dissolution test of the pellets demonstrated that the dual-coating could protect LYC in the simulated gastric medium and release it in the simulated intestinal medium. The result of the stability test confirmed the efficiency of the additional sugar-coat to the film layer of the pellets since the amount of remaining LYC in dual-coated pallets was significantly higher than the film-coated pellets after six months of accelerated stability test. Conclusion: The dual-coating of the pellets could protect LYC from environmental conditions and increase its stability. However, addition of substances to the formulation which might maximize the stability of LYC requires further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycopene, a potent antioxidant predominantly found in red-hued fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, has been incorporated into embryonic maturation media in vitro, demonstrating enhancements in embryo quality. Despite these advancements, the specific effects of lycopene on Zebrafish embryo quality remain unexplored. This study aims to investigate the impact of lycopene (0.65 ppm) on the development of Zebrafish embryos, focusing on hatchability (HA), and heart rate (HR) under conditions of heat stress (HS). Fertile Zebrafish embryos at the gastrula stage were induced HS (30oC; 1 hour). The embryos will be segregated into two groups: those exposed to HS and nonHS (28oC). Each group will receive one of three treatments (four replicates): control / without lycopene (P1), 2μL lycopene (P2), and 4μL lycopene (P3). Observations using an inverted microscope was done every three up to 48 hours post-fertilization (hpf), and subsequently every five hours up to 96 hpf. Quantitative data obtained for HA and HR were analyzed with SPSS, One-Way ANNOVA (p