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Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of Quillaja saponaria powder and Yucca schidigera powder (Magni‐Phi®) for all avian species (to slaughter age/weight, or to the point of lay) and ornamental birds, as a zootechnical additive (digestibility enhancer and other zootechnical additives). The EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) concluded that the additive is safe for chickens for fattening at the level of 250 mg/kg complete feed with a margin of safety of 20 assuming that the additive contains 3.58% of saponins. This conclusion was extrapolated to all growing poultry species and ornamental birds. The Panel concluded that the use of the feed additive in animal nutrition at 250 mg/kg complete feed is of no concern for the safety for the consumer and the environment. The Panel also concluded that the additive is not irritant to skin, but irritant to the eyes and to the respiratory system. Due to the lack of data, the FEEDAP Panel could not conclude on the skin sensitisation potential of the additive. The FEEDAP Panel was not in the position to conclude on the efficacy of the additive for all poultry species and ornamental birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When replanting an asparagus field, the roots of the previous crop are crushed and incorporated into the soil, creating problems of autotoxicity and fungal infections. Asparagus roots can be considered as a valuable byproduct, since they are very rich in saponins (3–6%), compounds currently considered as bio-emulsifiers. The objective is to evaluate the emulsifying and foaming capacity of a saponin extract from asparagus roots (ARS) and compare it with other commercial extracts. ARS was obtained using a process patented by our research group. The results have shown that ARS has activity similar to Quillaja extract. Its critical micellar concentration falls between that of Quillaja and Tribulus extracts (0.064, 0.043, and 0.094 g/100 mL, respectively). Both emulsifying and foaming activities are affected by pH, salt, and sucrose to a similar extent as the other extracts. Additionally, it has demonstrated an inhibitory effect on pancreatic lipase, which is even better than the other two studied extracts, as indicated by its IC50 value (0.7887, 1.6366, and 2.0107 mg/mL for asparagus, Quillaja, and Tribulus, respectively). These results suggest that ARS could serve as a natural emulsifying/foaming agent for healthier and safer food products and as a potential aid in treatments for obesity and hyperlipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More attention is being given to researches of eco-sustainable solutions to be implemented in agriculture, particularly in the presence of plant parasitic nematodes, whose damages have significant global importance. Unsustainable practices, such as fumigation and monoculture, have led to depletion of biodiversity, allowing harmful trophic groups (bacteria, fungi, and nematodes) to prevail, and their negative synergistic action further exacerbating yield losses. Considering the notable and progressive restriction of usable molecules, nematode control strategies must necessarily consider the appropriate integration of methods. The main objective of control is to limit pathogen populations below the damage threshold, rather than aiming at their eradication as mistakenly pursued in the past. This goal can be achieved with the help of solutions that promote plant development through biostimulation of root systems, which are often affected by various organisms in the biosphere. Tequil, through its well-documented synergy of saponins, tannins, and polyphenols, produces invigorating, biostimulating, and strengthening effects on the root system. Indeed, in vitro tests and field trials have highlighted Tequil's appreciable activity in containing trophic groups, particularly root-knot nematodes of the Meloidogyne genus. Therefore, its use could indirectly contribute to nematode control and limit yield losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Snakebite is an issue of concern, especially in India which accounts for half of the global deaths due to venomous snakebites every year. Saponins are glycosides of triterpenes and steroids known for their antivenom properties. The soap bark tree or Quillaya, Quillaja saponaria Molina represents the major resource of saponins for commercial applications. Here, we investigated the antivenom property of silver nanoparticle mediated saponins (AgNP-SP) from the Q. saponaria bark extract. AgNP-SP was prepared conducive to optimal temperature, pH of extract and concentration of AgNO3. UV-VIS, FT-IR, XRD, TEM and SEM interpretations were devised to characterize AgNP-SP. AgNP-SP was tested for its efficacy to neutralize venom lethality and increase in myotoxicity biomarkers (LDH) in animal models. AgNP-SP was synthesized optimally at a concentration of 50 mg/mL, extract (pH 6.8) and temperature (80°C) with AgNO3 (1 mM). The colour change and synthesis of AgNP-SP was examined by UV-Vis analysis at 430 nm. TEM studies showed the size for AgNP-SP to be 74.4 nm. FT-IR analysis showed peaks of AgNP-SP at 3422 cm-1 and 2926 (O-H stretching), 2358 cm-1 (O=C=O stretching), 1616 cm-1 (C=C stretching), 1097 cm-1 (C-F stretching), 813 cm-1 (C-CL stretching) and 651 cm-1 (C-Br stretching). The EDAX established the purity of the AgNP-SP. The biosynthesized AgNP-SP could significantly neutralize Vipera russelli venom (VRV) mediated elevation of biomarkers lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum creatinine and serum uric acid. The present study, thus promulgates the therapeutic potential of silver nanoparticle mediated saponins (AgNP-SP) in ameliorating the biochemical and pharmacological effect of haemotoxic snake venom in animal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the future, cleaning products must fulfil the principles of green chemistry while maintaining efficacy against bacteria. This study aims to evaluate the detergent properties, ecotoxicity, and anti-biofilm potential of natural saponins compared to synthetic surfactants. We tested sodium dodecyl sulphate, quillaja saponin, escin, and sapogenin for emulsifying capacity, critical micelle concentration, ecotoxicity to yeast, and antibacterial and anti-biofilm potential against bacteria. The results show that the emulsifying capacities of quillaja saponin and sodium dodecyl sulphate are similar, while the critical micelle concentration for quillaja saponin is much lower. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antibiofilm potentials are much higher for quillaja saponin than for synthetic sodium dodecyl sulphate. Moreover, we have shown that natural saponins are less toxic to the S. cerevisiae than synthetic saponin is. All these facts indicate that quillaja is a suitable candidate to replace synthetic products as it meets the requirements of efficacy and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chilean soapbark tree (Quillaja saponaria) produces soap-like molecules called QS saponins that are important vaccine adjuvants. These highly valuable compounds are sourced by extraction from the bark, and their biosynthetic pathway is unknown. Here, we sequenced the Q. saponaria genome. Through genome mining and combinatorial expression in tobacco, we identified 16 pathway enzymes that together enable the production of advanced QS pathway intermediates that represent a bridgehead for adjuvant bioengineering. We further identified the enzymes needed to make QS-7, a saponin with excellent therapeutic properties and low toxicity that is present in low abundance in Q. saponaria bark extract. Our results enable the production of Q. saponaria vaccine adjuvants in tobacco and open the way for new routes to access and engineer natural and new-to-nature immunostimulants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for knowledge about forest species to support their conservation and sustainable use is crucial given the anthropogenic threats faced. The Quillaja genus holds pharmacological and economic relevance but faces risks of extinction. Thus, this study analyzes global scientific studies on the two species of this genus, to identify key scientific advances and conservation gaps concerning Quillaja saponaria and Quillaja lancifolia. A bibliometric review was conducted covering all published research on the topic in the Scopus database until 2022. Only scientific articles focusing on the respective species were considered, resulting in 552 documents involving Q. saponaria and 26 for Q. lancifolia. The country with the highest number of publications on Q. saponaria is the United States, followed by Chile, where the species occurs. With regard to Q. lancifolia , Brazil leads with the highest number of publications, followed by Uruguay. Saponins are the most extensively studied compounds produced by both species, exhibiting various types with different constituents and applications. The bark of Q. saponaria (92%) and the leaves of Q. lancifolia (84%) have been studied the most. The field of health sciences comprises the largest number of publications on both species, which have applications as vaccine adjuvants. However, a gap was identified in the realm of ecological studies, considering the potential of these species for restoring degraded areas. Hence, there is a need to expand silvicultural and conservation research, particularly given the strong demand for saponin production. Additionally, efforts to diversify techniques for sustainable exploitation should be encouraged to ensure the conservation of these species. [Display omitted] • The Quillajaceae family has super saponin-producing species. • Quillaja saponaria has more research than Quillaja lancifolia. • The immunoadjuvant potential is the main one in the Quillajaceae family. • More ecological and silvicultural studies are needed on the Quillajaceae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When replanting an asparagus field, the roots of the previous crop are crushed and incorporated into the soil, creating problems of autotoxicity and fungal infections. Asparagus roots can be considered as a valuable byproduct, since they are very rich in saponins (3–6%), compounds currently considered as bio-emulsifiers. The objective is to evaluate the emulsifying and foaming capacity of a saponin extract from asparagus roots (ARS) and compare it with other commercial extracts. ARS was obtained using a process patented by our research group. The results have shown that ARS has activity similar to Quillaja extract. Its critical micellar concentration falls between that of Quillaja and Tribulus extracts (0.064, 0.043, and 0.094 g/100 mL, respectively). Both emulsifying and foaming activities are affected by pH, salt, and sucrose to a similar extent as the other extracts. Additionally, it has demonstrated an inhibitory effect on pancreatic lipase, which is even better than the other two studied extracts, as indicated by its IC50 value (0.7887, 1.6366, and 2.0107 mg/mL for asparagus, Quillaja, and Tribulus, respectively). These results suggest that ARS could serve as a natural emulsifying/foaming agent for healthier and safer food products and as a potential aid in treatments for obesity and hyperlipidemia.

Quil-A, a commercial product of the aqueous extract of Quillaja saponaria Molina bark, indigenous to Chile has been widely reported for its immuno-modulatory and adjuvant properties. The saponin constituent of the plant extract, which is responsible for these properties, is commonly separated using liquid chromatography techniques. However, the application of this technique is impaired by the non-saponin constituents of the aqueous matrix, leading to the shortening of the column life. Therefore, the study was to develop a reverse-phase liquid chromatography technique to improve the resolution of the aqueous matrix. Applying the reverse phase liquid chromatography using optimized gradient solvent mixtures of water, acetonitrile, and 10 mM ammonium acetate, components from the sample were eluted on a C5 reverse phase column. Liquid chromatography peaks at 214 nm, and electrospray ionization mass spectrometer signals were identified as per the NIST-MS data library. The finding indicates the presence of ions of molecules previously reported. Also, ions of high molecular weight saponin-like molecules, which are yet to be reported, were eluted at early retention times of the chromatography elution. The study suggests the possible presence of molecules, which could be novel and contribute to the ultimate benefits of Quil-A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discoloration of chlorophyll (Chl) by light is an ongoing issue for green beverages in the food industry. To suppress the discoloration of Chl in aqueous solution, the effects of different emulsifiers were investigated on the discoloration of Chl under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation to determine their potential application for use as food additives. Sucrose fatty acid ester (SE), sorbitan fatty acid ester (TW), and quillaja saponin (QS) were used as emulsifiers, while Triton X‐100 (TX) was used for reference. The discoloration of Chl was measured using a color difference meter. The species of Chl in solution were determined using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), fluorescence, and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and the particle size of Chl in solution was determined using dynamic light scattering. The Chl aggregates were observed by the observation of increased peak areas at longer wavelengths in the UV spectra of Chl, in addition to a reduced fluorescence intensity. The CD spectra showed that the Chl aggregates were arranged in a random structure. Furthermore, the average particle size of the Chl aggregates was determined to be approximately 100 nm. SE and QS were found to significantly enhance the formation of self‐aggregates due to their high hydrophilicities compared to those of TW and TX. As a result, SE and QS protect themselves from light to suppress the discoloration of Chl. The present results therefore suggest that SE and QS are suitable emulsifiers to address the problem of Chl discoloration in beverages, such as green tea and vegetable juices. Practical Application: Chlorophyll (Chl), a green pigment present in vegetables and green tea, is discolored by light. In this study, it was found that emulsifiers (sucrose fatty acid ester and quillaja saponin) suppress the discoloration of Chl. The implementation of these emulsifiers as food additives would enable green tea or green vegetable juices to maintain their colors for long periods and could contribute significantly to the beverage industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The cytotoxic mechanism of the saponin QS-21 and its aglycone quillaic acid (QA) was studied on human gastric cancer cells (SNU1 and KATO III). Both compounds showed in vitro cytotoxic activity with IC50 values: 7.1 μM (QS-21) and 13.6 μM (QA) on SNU1 cells; 7.4 μM (QS-21) and 67 μM (QA) on KATO III cells. QS-21 and QA induce apoptosis on SNU1 and KATO III, as demonstrated by TUNEL, Annexin-V and Caspase Assays. Additionally, we performed in silico docking studies simulating the binding of both triterpenic compounds to key proteins involved in apoptotic pathways. The binding energies (∆Gbin) thus calculated, suggest that the pro-apoptotic protein Bid might be a plausible target involved in the apoptotic effect of both triterpenic compounds. Although QA shows some antiproliferative effects on SNU1 cells cultured in vitro, our results suggest that QS-21 is a more powerful antitumor agent, which merits further investigation regarding their properties as potential therapeutic agents for gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of binary emulsifiers' influence on the formation and stability of emulsion‐based products is still limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the emulsifying properties of Quillaja saponin–egg lecithin mixtures at different concentration ratios (r = 5:0, 4:1, 3:2, 2:3, 1:4, and 0:5) with total emulsifier concentration set to 0.5% or 1.0% (w/w). For this, oil‐in‐water emulsions (10% oil, pH 7) were prepared via high‐pressure homogenization. Furthermore, emulsion stability against different environmental stresses was tested. All the binary emulsifier mixtures formed submicron sized emulsions upon homogenization. The most stable emulsions among the mixed emulsifiers were obtained at low Quillaja saponin concentration at r = 1:4 that showed similar physical stability over time to emulsions stabilized by Quillaja saponins and egg lecithin alone. The data suggested that the mixtures of Quillaja saponins and egg lecithins built mixed interfacial layers that were prone to changes over time. Emulsions stabilized by the binary mixtures were in general less stable against changes in pH and ionic strength than the emulsions stabilized by the individual emulsifiers. An exception were the emulsions at r = 1:4 that showed improved stability at pH 2 over the phase separated Quillaja saponin–stabilized emulsions at the same pH. Moreover, all the emulsions were heat stable up to 90 °C. On the other hand, none of the emulsions were stable upon freeze‐thawing. These results increase our understanding of technofunctionality of binary emulsifier systems. Practical Application: Food‐grade and natural emulsifier mixtures composed of Quillaja saponins and egg lecithin may be used in selected emulsion‐based food or personal care product applications to replace synthetic surfactants due to issues with consumer acceptance and regulatory restrictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Emulsifiers can often be used in combination to improve their functional performance. In this study, we examined the potential of combining two natural emulsifiers, hydrolyzed rice glutelin (HRG) and quillaja saponin (QS), on the formation and stability of oil-in-water emulsions. In particular, we investigated the impact of total emulsifier level, QS-to-HRG ratio, pH, ionic strength, and temperature on the mean particle diameter (d 3,2), ξ-potential, creaming stability, and microstructure of the emulsions. The size of the oil droplets produced by homogenization decreased as the QS-to-HRG ratio increased from 1:4 to 1:1, but remained constant after that. The ξ-potential and dimensions of the droplets coated by the mixed emulsifiers were reasonably similar to those coated by QS alone, suggesting that the adsorbed saponins dominated the interfacial properties in the mixed systems. We also determined the physical stability of emulsions prepared using HRG, QS, or 1:1 QS-HRG after exposure to pH changes (pH 3–7), salt addition (0–500 mM NaCl, pH 7) and thermal treatment (30–90 °C 30 min, 200 mM NaCl, pH 7). QS-emulsions were stable to aggregation and creaming over a wider pH range than the other emulsions. Conversely, the mixed emulsions had better stability to high salt levels and temperatures (pH 7), which was attributed to a thicker interfacial layer causing stronger steric repulsion. This research may increase the utilization of plant-based emulsifiers in food and beverage applications. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Hydrolyzed rice glutelin (HRG) and quillaja saponin (QS) were used to form emulsions. • These plant-based emulsifiers had synergistic effects on improving emulsion stability. • The mixed emulsifiers (1:1) gave improved stability at high ionic strengths and temperatures. • These plant-based emulsifiers may be suitable for application in foods and beverages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses QS-7, a promising vaccine adjuvant derived from the rare Chilean soapbark tree or Quillaja saponaria. The QS adjuvants belong to a group of secondary metabolites called triterpenoid glycosides or saponins. Due to the complexity of the QS structures, which has challenged traditional chemical synthesis, understanding QS biosynthesis in the native tree presents an opportunity to obtain these pharmaceuticals sustainably.

Extracts rich in saponins from Quillaja saponaria Mol. and populations of rhizobacteria from the genus Pseudomonas, which produce antimicrobial compounds, have been associated with reduction of the fungus Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici, the causal agent of take-all disease, which is responsible for severe loss of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) crops worldwide. However, there is a limited background on the interaction between these bacteria and natural triterpenoids. The aim of this research was to assess the effect of saponin rich extract on Pseudomonas protegens strains 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol-producers under in vitro and in plant conditions and determining the synergistic effect to be used together to control G. graminis var. tritici in wheat plants. We determined that 8% and 90% of saponins rich Q. saponaria extracts have a differential effect on P. protegens according to their purity (P ≤ 0.05). On wheat seedlings, quillaja extract with 90% of saponins did not affect the three antagonistic bacterial strain populations assessed, but affected biofilm formation at saponins concentration of 7360 mg L-1. Pseudomonas protegens strains had a variable antagonist activity in wheat plants, and controlled the fungus when were combined with different concentrations of pure Q. saponaria extract, with the concentration of 1840 ppm reducing the take-all disease in 32.5% with respect to the control inoculated with G. graminis var. tritici (P ≤ 0.05). However, no synergistic effects when the plant extract was combined with the bacterial strains were observed. These results showed the promising and complexity of combining bacterial and plant extract to develop a biopesticide, which could control this fungal disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research was to develop antimicrobial nanoemulsions using quillaja saponin as a natural surfactant, carvacrol as an antimicrobial agent, and medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil as a ripening inhibitor. Oil-in-water antimicrobial nanoemulsions were fabricated by homogenizing 10 wt% oil phase (carvacrol and MCT) with 90 wt% aqueous phase (quillaja saponin in 5 mM sodium citrate buffer, pH 3.5). The physical stability and antimicrobial activity of these systems was compared to nanoemulsions formed using a synthetic non-ionic surfactant (Tween 80). Stable nanoemulsions with small mean droplet diameters ( d  < 150 nm) could be formed by optimizing oil phase composition and surfactant level. The antimicrobial activity of carvacrol nanoemulsions formulated with Q-Naturale ® was higher than that formulated with Tween 80. Dialysis and chromatography were used to monitor the transfer of carvacrol from one hydrophobic phase to another, to mimic transport from oil droplets to bacterial cell membranes. The antimicrobial activity depended on the concentration and type of surfactant used and the ability of surfactant micelles to transfer carvacrol through the aqueous phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A specific, sensitive and rapid ultra high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of six major bioactive constituents in Rhizoma Panacis Japonici (RPJ), including oleanolic acid-type chikusetsusaponin V, IV, hemsgiganoside B, damarane-type ginsenoside Rb1, Rg1 and Re in rat plasma, using estazolam as the internal standard (IS). Plasma samples were pretreated with methanol/acetonitrile (1:1, V/V) for protein precipitation. Chromatographic separation was performed on an Agilent Eclipse Plus C 18 column, using a gradient mobile phase consisting of methanol and 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution. A tandem mass spectrometric detection with an electrospray ionization (ESI) interface was conducted via multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) under positive ionization mode. For all the six analytes of interest, the calibration curves were linear in the concentration range of 2.00–500 ng/mL with r  ≥ 0.9956. The intra- and inter-day precisions (in terms of relative standard deviation, RSD) were all below 10.2% and the accuracies (in terms of relative error, RE) were within −5.0% to 6.3% for all six analytes. Extraction recovery, matrix effect and stability data all met the acceptance criteria of FDA guideline for bioanalytical method validation. The developed method was applied to the pharmacokinetic study in rat. After oral administration of the total saponins from RPJ, six analytes were quickly absorbed into the blood and presented the phenomenon of double peaks. Among the six analytes, ginsenoside Rb1 showed slowest elimination from plasma with a t 1/2z of 16.00 h, while that of the others were between 1.72 and 5.62 h. In conclusion, the developed method was successfully used to simultaneously analyze major oleanolic acid-type and damarane-type saponins of RPJ in rat plasma after oral administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor aqueous solubility limits the bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs. Thus, there is an increasing interest in new micelle-forming, drug-solubilizing molecules that can offer improved effectiveness and safety. The effect of 13 saponin extracts on the solubility of fenofibrate and danazol was studied and the relationship between saponin molecular structure and drug solubilisation capacity was assessed. Drug solubility was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography and saponin solubilisation capacity was compared to the conventional surfactant Brij-35. Saponins from Quillaja saponaria and Camellia oleifera improved the aqueous solubility of danazol and fenofibrate by more than two orders of magnitude. For danazol, the solubilisation capacity of the best saponins was 2-3 times higher than Brij-35, whereas for fenofibrate, it was slightly lower than the reference surfactant. Both drugs were solubilized very effectively by bidesmosidic oleanane saponins, whereas dammarane, mono- and tri-desmosidic oleanane saponins and steroid (furostanol and spirostanol) saponins had no effect on drug solubility. Exceptions were fenusterol, a furostanol saponin and escin, a monodesmosidic oleanane saponin, which solubilised danazol only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: There is an increased interest for essential oil nanoemulsions as natural food preservatives. We utilized sugar‐based surfactants including Quillaja Saponin (QS), Sucrose Monopalmitate (SMP), and Octyl Modified Starch (OMS). The outcomes presented that nanoemulsions could be successfully formed. Whereas oregano emulsions stabilized by SMP exposed to salt and acidic pH were highly unstable, QS could form more stable colloidal systems. Oregano nanoemulsions containing a very low amount of sunflower oil (SO) were not susceptible to Ostwald ripening during 60 days of storage at 20 °C. The optimization of the production process through response surface methodology revealed that incorporation of only 6.9 wt % SO at a microfluidization pressure of 73.5 MPa was sufficient to form a long‐term stable nanoemulsion with no changes in antibacterial activity. This work gives valuable and practical information to produce a natural antimicrobial agent potentially applicable in food and beverage, as well as cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. Practical applications: Recently, there has been a great demand by not only food consumers but also manufacturers for products containing natural ingredients. In this study, a promising nanoemulsion delivery system for oregano as an essential oil model with long‐term stability using a biosurfactant (Quillaja Saponin) was successfully produced by microfluidization. We optimized the formulation in terms of energy requirement and costs, which are important factors from an industry point of view. The fabricated colloidal dispersions have antimicrobial as well as flavoring and potential antioxidant applications in different products including food and beverages, as well as pharmaceutical and beauty products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypothesis This study examined the emulsifying properties of mixed surfactant systems of Quillaja saponins and food-grade co-surfactants (Na-caseinate, pea protein, rapeseed lecithin, and egg lecithin). We hypothesized to these mixtures may build mixed adsorption layers and thus enhance emulsion stabilization. Experiments Oil-in-water emulsions (10%, pH 7) were prepared with different concentrations of co-surfactants (0.1–5.0%) alone or mixed with Quillaja saponins (0.05 or 0.5%). Dynamic interfacial tension measurements were performed to characterize the behavior of the surfactants at an oil-water interface. Findings Low Quillaja saponin concentrations led to either no changes or substantial increases in particle sizes of protein stabilized emulsions, but d 43 -values decreased in lecithin stabilized emulsions at low lecithin concentrations. The dominating effect of Quillaja saponins at high concentrations led to formation of small droplets (d 43 ≤ 2 µm) in all emulsions, except with 2.5% pea proteins. All co-surfactants showed synergistic or additive effects with respect to interfacial tension reductions upon addition of Quillaja saponins (except for egg lecithin with 0.005% Quillaja saponin addition). The results indicated a competing effect for saponin–protein interfaces, but formation of mixed saponin–lecithin interfaces, thus showing that the emulsion stabilization and interfacial properties can be tuned by specific binary surfactant mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the in vitro effect of Quillaja saponaria extracts on Asaia spp. planktonic cells and biofilms, in comparison and combination with two disinfectants: peracetic acid and N-ethyl-N,N-dimethylhexadecylammonium bromide. The growth of six bacterial strains was evaluated spectrophotometrically. Biofilm eradication was determined using the plate count method and luminometry. The planktonic cells were characterized by relatively high resistance to peracetic acid and higher sensitivity to N-ethylo-N,N-dimethylohexadecylioamonium bromide. In almost all the tested strains, growth was inhibited by 0.125% (v/v) peracetic acid and 0.0313% (w/v) quaternary ammonium compound. However, combinations of cell pretreatment using saponin and peracetic acid action were the most efficient against both planktonic and biofilm cells. The minimum inhibitory concentrations for peracetic acid were 4-8 times lower than those for bacterial strains without preliminary saponin action. Eradication of Asaia spp. biofilms reduced the number of living cells by 4-5 logarithmic units. These results demonstrate the synergetic action of saponin extract and disinfectant, and could be useful in the development of industrial strategies against Asaia spp. biofilms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saponin-based adjuvants are promising adjuvants that enhance both humoral and T-cell-mediated immunity. One of the most used natural products as vaccine adjuvants are Quillaja saponaria bark saponins and its fraction named Quil A®. Despite that, its use has been restricted for human use due to safety issues. As an alternative, our group has been studying the congener species Quillaja brasiliensis saponins and its performance as vaccine adjuvants, which have shown to trigger humoral and cellular immune responses comparable to Quil A® but with milder side effects. Here, we studied a semi purified aqueous extract (AE) and a previously little characterized saponin-enriched fraction (QB-80) from Q. brasiliensis as vaccine adjuvants and an inactivated virus (bovine viral diarrhea virus, BVDV) antigen co-formulated in experimental vaccines in mice model. For the first time, we show the spectra pattern of the Q. brasiliensis saponins by MALDI-TOF, a novel and cost-effective method that could be used to characterize different batches during saponins production. Both AE and QB-80 exhibited noteworthy chemical similarities to Quil A®. In addition, the haemolytic activity and toxicity were assessed, showing that both AE and QB-80 were less toxic than Quil A®. When subcutaneously inoculated in mice, both fractions promoted long-term strong antibody responses encompassing specific IgG1 and IgG2a, enhanced the avidity of IgG antibodies, induced a robust DTH reaction and significantly increased IFN-ɣ production in T CD4 + and T CD8 + cells. Furthermore, we have proven herein that AE has the potential to promote dose-sparing, substantially reducing the dose of antigen required for the BVDV vaccines and still eliciting a mixed Th1/Th2 strong immune response. Based on these results, and considering that AE is a raw extract, easier and cheaper to produce than commercially available saponins, this product can be considered as candidate to be escalated from experimental to industrial uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:Saponins from different sources are historically reported in Chinese medicine to possess many beneficial effects. However, insufficient experimental data are available regarding the hepatoprotective potential ofQuillajabark saponin. Objective:The protective effect ofQuillaja saponariaMolina (Quillajaceae) bark triterpenoid saponin against iron-induced hepatotoxicity is compared to the standardN-acetylcysteine in adult male Wistar rats. Materials and methods:Animals were divided into (six) groups, namely a normal control, anN-acetylcysteine control (300 mg/kg/day, p.o., 10 days), a saponin control (100 mg/kg/day, p.o., for 10 days), a hepatotoxicity control (two doses of ferrous sulphate, 30 mg/kg/day each, i.p., on 9th and 10th day), anN-acetylcysteine plus ferrous sulphate (standard treatment) and a saponin plus ferrous sulphate (test treatment) group. Hepatocyte integrity loss markers (serum ALT, AST, ALP, GGT and LDH), oxidative stress markers (hepatic MDA, GSH and NOx), dyslipidaemic markers (serum TC and TG) and hepatocyte functioning markers (serum bilirubin and albumin) were assessed. Results:Quillajabark saponin decreased iron-induced elevation of ALT (reaching 57% of hepatotoxicity control), AST (66%), ALP (76%), GGT (60%), LDH (54%), MDA (65%), NOx(77%), TC (70%), TG (54%), and total (54%), direct (54%) and indirect (54%) bilirubin, coupled with increased GSH (219%) and albumin (159%) levels. Histopathological study strongly supported biochemical estimations, while immunohistochemical study showed marked effect on eNOS and iNOS expression. Conclusions:Quillajabark saponin has a good hepatoprotective effect. Amelioration of oxidative stress and suppression of NOS expression, with resultant maintenance of hepatocyte integrity and functioning, may explain this beneficial effect. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The present study aims at quantifying interfacial coverage of a biosurfactant ( Quillaja saponins) and understanding the impact of flavor and fragrance alcohols on emulsification efficacy of the biosurfactant in a surfactant-oil-matrix system. Emulsions were prepared using limonene, alkanes (C 8 , C 12 , and C 16 ) or limonene ̶ alcohol (linalool and C 6 C 10 alcohols) mixtures at different ratios as oil phase stabilized by Quillaja saponins at very low concentrations (0.005–0.05% w/w). Droplet size was measured and size distributions were numerized to determine surface and volume average droplet diameters of bimodal emulsions. Using a model developed in the present study, Quillaja saponins showed an interfacial coverage of 5.0 × 10 6 cm 2 /g and a head surface of 1.37 nm 2 with a lay-on configuration at interface. The model proved to discriminate between surface active (alcohols) and non-active (alkanes) compounds. The apparent interfacial coverage of saponins increased linearly with increasing alcohol concentration. The type of alcohol (terpene alcohol vs. medium chain alcohols) and alcohol chain length (C 6 C 10 ) showed little impact on emulsification efficacy of Quillaja saponins. The molar ratio of heptanol to saponin at interface increased from 0 to 8.6 corresponding to 0–30% w/w heptanol in limonene. This study revealed that the distribution of alcohol at interface was mainly driven by partitioning in the surfactant-oil-matrix system. The practical implication of the present study is to enhance emulsification efficacy of Quillaja Saponins at very low concentration by incorporating surface active compounds, i.e. flavor or fragrance alcohols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants have been used recently to eliminate bacterial growth in food products. This study was undertaken to test the in vitro sanitizing effect of crude extract from bitter gourd (BG) fruit on the growth of native microorganisms in raw chicken leg meat. Hot air dried BG and extrudate extracts at 1% concentration and exposure times of (5, 10 and 15 min) were used to treat the samples using dilution method. Results showed that BG extrudate had a slightly stronger bactericidal activity against the microflora than the B.G. hot air drying treatment, especially, on E. coli at all exposure time. Overall, there is no significant difference between the treatments; Total Plate Count (TPC), Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus. The best reduction time of microflora by hot air dried extract was at (15 min) except for B. cereus was at (5 min) and for extrudate extract was at (5 min) except for E. coli was at (10 min). In conclusion, bitter gourd extract could be used as an important natural sanitizer for rinsing raw food matrials such chicken meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report evidence for stabilization and functionalization of aqueous foams stabilized by Quillaja saponin (QS)-coated nanodroplets. In contrast to foams stabilized by QS, stabilized the foams of QS-coated nanodroplets showed superior foamability, stability and multi-functional characteristics. Specifically, the half-life time of the foam stabilized by nanodroplets was approximately 4 times that of saponin. The microstructure observation indicates the nanodroplets from assembly of saponin around oil droplet were strong attachment at the gas-liquid interface and stabling a large gas-liquid interfacial area in a hierarchical structure. The surface dynamic adsorption and large deformation rheology were performed, revealed that QS nanodroplets were almost irreversibly adsorbed at air-liquid interface and exhibited less surface desorption and high elastic-viscous response to a large mechanical deformation. These nanodroplets stabilized foams presented a large capacity for loading hydrophobic flavors and nutrients (e.g., β -carotene and curcumin), which could be used to create a new class of foam food products with sustained release of flavors and/or health benefit functionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing demand for use of natural ingredients in food manufacturing. This study utilized a natural emulsifier, quillaja saponin (1%) to fabricate non-dairy model creamer emulsions (containing 10% medium chain triglycerides oil). Varying homogenization conditions, ranging from a high-shear mixer to passing through a microfluidizer at 20,000 psi, were applied to fabricate emulsions. The effect of particle size on the appearance, tristimulus color coordinates, and electrical characteristics of the model creamers and white coffee drinks were investigated. The average droplet size varied from 0.2 to 16 μm. All model creamers had whitish milk-like appearance and the white coffee solutions had light brown color. All systems were physically stable except for the systems with largest oil droplets (1.8 and 16 μm), which had creaming. The lightness, L* (whiteness) of the model creamer and the white coffee increased with decreasing oil droplet size, as smaller droplets scatter more light. Decreasing the oil droplet size led to lower zeta potential (from − 73 to − 54 mV) due to lesser negative charge group accumulated on the interfacial layer of the droplets. The oil droplets were also found to be stable to aggregation in hot acidic coffee solutions prepared using model hard water. Overall, this study found that oil droplets stabilized with natural plant-based surfactant have potential for application in liquid coffee creamers and their stability and whitening power were dependent on the droplet size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the influence of environmental stresses on the stability of emulsions prepared by a natural sugar beet extract ( Beta vulgaris L.). The emulsion stabilizing performance was compared to that of Quillaja extract, which is widely used within the food and beverage industry as natural surfactant. We investigated the influence of pH, ionic strength, heating and freeze-thawing on the mean particle size, ζ-potential and microstructure of oil-in-water emulsions (10% w/w oil, 0.75% w/w emulsifier). The emulsions stabilized by the anionic sugar beet extract were stable at pH 5-8 and against thermal treatments up to 60 °C. However, the prepared emulsions were unstable at acidic (pH 2-4) and basic pH conditions (pH 9), at high temperature (>60 °C), and at salt additions (> 0.1 M NaCl / CaCl). Moreover, they also phase separated upon freeze-thawing. Our results show that sugar beet extract is capable of stabilizing emulsions and may therefore be suitable as natural emulsifier for selected applications in the food and beverage industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equilibrium sorption of saponin from Quillaja saponaria Molina with chitosan has been analyzed. The shape of the sorption isotherm is determined by the competing processes of the glycoside association in the solution and its absorption with chitosan, as evidenced by the calculated absorption and association energies and the curves of chitosan dehydration accompanying the saponin sorption. Analysis of the chitosan surface during the saponin sorption by means of atomic force microscopy has revealed the structure-morphology features depending on the glycoside concentration in the external solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of number of homogenization passes, pH, and NaCl concentration on the formation and stability of oil-in-water emulsions comprising a mixture of a biosurfactant (Quillajabark saponin) and a globular protein (β-lactoglobulin) were investigated. The emulsions were characterized as to visual appearance, droplet size, droplet surface charge, and rheology. The emulsions obtained by different conditions (4, 6, or 8 passes; pH 7, 8, or 9; and 0, 100, or 200 mmol L−1of NaCl) were polydisperse, presented relatively small average droplet sizes (z-average < 323 nm) as well as negative droplet charge (between –20 and –79.6 mV) in all evaluated conditions. Regardless of the number of homogenization passes, the emulsions exhibited low apparent viscosity and pseudoplastic behavior with small yield stress. Viscoelastic behavior was also observed, thus the emulsions were characterized as weak gels. Four homogenization passes were enough to obtain small droplets in the evaluated conditions. Droplet size was not significantly affected by NaCl concentration and pH (p> 0.05). On the other hand, the absolute ζ-potential values significantly decreased and increased upon increased NaCl content and pH, respectively. Regardless of the tested conditions, all emulsions had good stability against phase separation and droplet aggregation, since no significant changes in average droplet size were observed throughout storage (p> 0.05). In the presence of NaCl, in which droplet charge significantly decreased, emulsion was also stable. Thus, we can conclude that electrostatic repulsion as well as steric repulsion was responsible for stabilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emulsifying properties of a mixture of Quillaja bark saponin (QBS) and β-lactoglobulin (β-lg) were evaluated under different pH conditions (7–9) and NaCl concentrations (0–200 mmol·L −1 ) and compared to the individual components. The formation and stabilization of oil-in-water emulsions were evaluated through visual analysis, droplet size distribution, droplet surface electrical charge (ζ-potential), and emulsion rheology. Both pH and NaCl concentration affected the properties of these emulsions in different ways, depending upon the QBS:β-lg ratio. QBS and/or β-lg emulsions had a relatively high negative droplet charge at pH ranging from 7 to 9 (−76.7 to −17.8 mV), which decreased in magnitude with decreasing pH or with increasing NaCl concentration. All emulsions were polydisperse and presented relatively small average droplet diameters (236–491 nm). Steady-state flow measurements revealed the non-Newtonian, shear-thinning behavior of all emulsions, which was properly described by the Herschel-Bulkley model with a small yield stress (12.9–214.8 mPa) and low apparent viscosity at 100 s −1 (1.81–2.97 mPa s). The emulsions were characterized as weak gels by dynamic oscillatory measurements. Most of the emulsions comprising QBS, β-lg, or a mixture of both were stable against droplet coalescence over a pH and NaCl concentration range. Regardless of the tested emulsifier, phase separation did not take place, although droplet creaming was observed. Emulsions comprising QBS and β-lg, both independently and mixed, showed similar emulsifying properties. However, the mixture of these appeared to provide emulsions with improved stability when compared to QBS and β-lg emulsions. The good stability of these emulsions can be attributed to the increased electrostatic repulsion and steric stabilization conferred by the two emulsifiers concurrently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural alternate methods to control the spread of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are important to prevent foodborne outbreaks. Quillaja saponaria aqueous bark extracts (QE), cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a natural flavorant, contain bioactive polyphenols, tannins, and tri-terpenoid saponins with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of commercial QE against E. coli O157:H7 and non-O157 strains over 16 h at 37 °C and RT. Overnight cultures of 4 E. coli O157:H7 strains and 6 non-O157 STECs in Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB) were washed and resuspended in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.2), and treated with QE and controls including citric acid (pH 3.75), sodium benzoate (0.1% w/w), acidified sodium benzoate (pH 3.75) or PBS for 6 h or 16 h. Recovered bacteria were enumerated after plating on Tryptic Soy Agar, from duplicate treatments, replicated thrice and the data were statistically analyzed. The 4 QE-treated E. coli O157:H7 strains from initial ∼7.5 log CFU had remaining counts between 6.79 and 3.5 log CFU after 16 h at RT. QE-treated non-O157 STECs showed lower reductions with remaining counts ranging from 6.81 to 4.55 log CFU after 16 h at RT. Incubation at 37 °C caused reduction to nondetectable levels within 1 h, without any significant reduction in controls. Scanning electron microscopy studies revealed damaged cell membranes of treated bacteria after 1 h at 37 °C. QE shows potential to control the spread of STECs, and further research in model food systems is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quillaja saponaria is a valuable commercial and ecological Chilean native species that has suffered considerably degradation countrywide; however, the determination of the optimum characteristics of the planting stock, an important aspect in restoration projects, has receive little attention. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of container size and dose of fertilizer on morphological and physiological responses of Q. saponaria seedlings cultivated in a nursery under well-watered and water restricted conditions. After 27 days growing under contrasting watering regimes, growth, biomass allocation, and gas exchange were measured in 6-month-old seedlings. We found that survival, height and diameter increment, and root dry weight were higher in the water stressed seedlings cultivated in large containers. The water stressed seedlings cultivated in large containers also had superior stomatal conductance, however when the fertilizer dose was decreased, this trait decreased considerably. Thus, a superior performance in a water-restricted environment could be expected in those seedlings cultivated in larger containers with low fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biophysical studies of pulmonary surfactant, PS, provide the possibility to assess the roles of physicochemical phenomena in physiological functions of this mixture of biosurfactants lining the surface of lung’s alveoli. In particular they help to understand the possible alterations of PS functions by inhaled compounds (aerosols or gases). Most experimental studies are based on either multicomponent animal or human-derived PS or its essential constituents. The present study proposes a new functional experimental model of PS for studying the interfacial dynamics in the Langmuir balance and other experimental setups. The model is based on a novel application of a mixture of biosurfactants of plant origin, Quillaja bark saponins (QBS), to enhance the phospholipid mass exchange between the interface and the liquid subphase. The response of the interface during periodic variations of the gas-liquid surface area is represented by a reproducible surface tension hysteresis, which is known to be an essential marker of PS activity. The results indicate that the proposed system may be useful in further biophysical studies related to pulmonary surfactant dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quillaja saponin extract comprises both, surfactants and phenolic compounds, which makes it interesting, in particular, for the formulation of sensitive functional food ingredients and its protection against oxidation. The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant effect of Quillaja saponin extract in oil/water emulsions. Emulsions stabilised by Quillaja saponin showed decreased oxidation stability due to naturally occurring metals but stability increased to a great extent when a chelating agent was added. Antioxidant efficiency of the saponin extract was determined photometrically by 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and by the use of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR). EPR spectroscopy applying stable hydrophilic and hydrophobic radicals is advantageous, especially for characterisation of antioxidant efficiency at the interface. The extract showed antioxidant activity towards radicals in both environments, aqueous and hydrophobic, indicating the importance of phenolic compounds for the antioxidant properties of Quillaja saponin extract and their presence at the interface facilitated by saponin molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yucca GRAS-labelled saponins have been and are increasingly used in food/feed, pharmaceutical or cosmetic industries. Existing techniques presently used for Yucca steroidal saponin quantification remain either inaccurate and misleading or accurate but time consuming and cost prohibitive. The method reported here addresses all of the above challenges. HPLC/ELSD technique is an accurate and reliable method that yields results of appropriate repeatability and reproducibility. This method does not over- or under-estimate levels of steroidal saponins. HPLC/ELSD method does not require each and every pure standard of saponins, to quantify the group of steroidal saponins. The method is a time- and cost-effective technique that is suitable for routine industrial analyses. HPLC/ELSD methods yield a saponin fingerprints specific to the plant species. As the method is capable of distinguishing saponin profiles from taxonomically distant species, it can unravel plant adulteration issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A relationship between adsorption layer structure at different stages of sorbent filling, hydrophilicity, and spatial orientation of saponin in chitosan phase is revealed by joint analysis of the kinetic curves of saponin sorption, IR spectra of chitosan and saponin samples, and computer-simulation data. The sorbent-sorbate complex is formed due to electrostatic interactions between protonated amino groups in chitosan and carboanions of glucuronic acid in saponin, as well as hydrogen bonding between NH and OH groups in chitosan molecules and OH groups in the carbohydrate moiety of saponin molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the applicability of Quillaja saponaria extract (QSE) and N α -lauroyl- l -arginine ethyl ester (LAE) as antimicrobial wash water additives in fresh-cut lettuce processing. Antibacterial activities of LAE and QSE against selected strains of the foodborne pathogens Salmonella enterica , Bacillus cereus , Staphylococcus aureus , Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Listeria monocytogenes were examined in vitro . Minimum inhibitory concentrations determined by broth microdilution assay demonstrated that LAE exhibited a strong antimicrobial activity with MICs between 4 and 32 μg/mL against all tested strains, whereas QSE showed a weaker antimicrobial activity with MICs >512 μg/mL. On a pilot-plant scale, the effects of warm water washing at 45 °C for 120 s with and without 40 mg/L QSE or 100 mg/L LAE as well as cold water washing at 4 °C for 120 s with QSE or LAE, respectively, of shredded endive ( Cichorium endivia L.) were investigated regarding microbiological and sensory quality as well as physiological properties. Samples were analyzed for headspace O 2 and CO 2 levels, phenylalanine-ammonia-lyase activity and contents of nitrite and nitrate during nine days of cold storage at 4 °C. By analogy to its antimicrobial effect against the foodborne pathogens in vitro , LAE allowed up to 4 log 10 cfu/mL reduction of the microbial load in the washing water of the pilot plant, and might therefore reduce cross-contamination while saving water. The addition of LAE to warm washing water impaired sensory properties of fresh-cut endive during storage, which was predicted by chlorophyll fluorescence imaging analyses. QSE treatment combined with warm water washing best retained sensory appearance throughout our study, being possibly suitable for the production of premium products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]