Nutraceuticals

14 pages, 503 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Bioactivity of Carrageenans in Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Diseases

by Ana Valado, Maria Pereira, Mónica Amaral, João Cotas and Leonel Pereira

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 441-454; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040032 - 02 Dec 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2173

The high incidence of changes in the lipid profile in the world population is supported by the adoption of a lifestyle with numerous risk factors. Dyslipidemia, the main alteration in the lipid profile, is characterized by increased concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), low-density [...] Read more.

The high incidence of changes in the lipid profile in the world population is supported by the adoption of a lifestyle with numerous risk factors. Dyslipidemia, the main alteration in the lipid profile, is characterized by increased concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), and decreased concentration of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). These modifications in lipid metabolism are particularities of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and one of the main risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), one of the main causes of death in the world. Macroalgae have a high percentage of dietary fiber, and a low percentage of lipids. Carrageenans, long-chain polysaccharides extracted from red macroalgae, are present in several foods, such as jelly. Chemically, they present several structures with different applications and purposes in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical industries. The bioactive potential of carrageenans has demonstrated potential in the reduction of the levels of parameters of the lipid profile, being able to be an alternative in the reversion of MetS and, consequently, in the prevention and treatment of CVD. This review article aims to compile, evaluate, and reflect on the effect of carrageenans on lipid profile markers (TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C), relating them to MetS and CVD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutraceuticals for Cardiometabolic Diseases: Prophylactic and Therapeutic Research)

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21 pages, 845 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Study of the Cosmetic Potential Uses of Plants from Mayotte as Skin Care Agents through the Screening of Their Biological Activities

by Manon Genva, Laura Lheureux, Matthew Saive, Chloé Maes and Marie-Laure Fauconnier

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 420-440; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040031 - 01 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1622

Abstract

(1) The island of Mayotte, located in the Indian Ocean, possesses remarkable biodiversity. In a previous ethnobotanical study, we already highlighted 69 different plant species used in traditional medicine. Among those, 21 were traditionally employed for skin care by the local populations. The [...] Read more.

(1) The island of Mayotte, located in the Indian Ocean, possesses remarkable biodiversity. In a previous ethnobotanical study, we already highlighted 69 different plant species used in traditional medicine. Among those, 21 were traditionally employed for skin care by the local populations. The present study aimed to better understand the traditional use of those plants by investigating their in vitro biological activities and, more specifically, their anti-lipoxygenase, antioxidant and anti-tyrosinase properties. (2) These three activities were, respectively, determined by lipoxygenase inhibition, DPPH-reducing potency, and anti-tyrosinase activity assays. (3) Results revealed high biological activities for several plant species, with some of them displaying one strong single activity, while others had at the same time anti-lipoxygenase, antioxidant and anti-tyrosinase effects. (4) Those in vitro biological activities agreed with the traditional use of those plants by the local population. It also highlights the high potential of those species from Mayotte in the development of new cosmetic ingredients for the treatment of many skin affections, such as eczema. Full article

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16 pages, 2104 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Implications of the Main Bioactive Peptides: A Review

by Alessandro Colletti, Elda Favari, Elisa Grandi and Arrigo F. G. Cicero

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 404-419; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040030 - 28 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2080

Abstract

Bioactive peptides (BPs) are a heterogeneous class of molecules found in a wide range of plant and animal sources. BPs have a number of different industrial applications including pharmacology (nutraceuticals), food, cosmetology, and pet food. Though BPs were initially used mainly as food [...] Read more.

Bioactive peptides (BPs) are a heterogeneous class of molecules found in a wide range of plant and animal sources. BPs have a number of different industrial applications including pharmacology (nutraceuticals), food, cosmetology, and pet food. Though BPs were initially used mainly as food additives, today the estimated peptide-based product market is around US $40 billion per year, highlighting consumer demand. The nutraceutical field is one of the most interesting applications for BPs, however there are some limitations to the efficacy of BPs in nutraceutical treatments, including low bioaccessibility and bioavailability. Thus, new extraction and isolation techniques have been developed, using both vegetable and animal sources, to obtain BPs with specific activities and improve the bioactivity and the bioavailability. Randomized clinical trials show a possible relationship between the administration of BPs and the reduction of several cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia and hyperglycaemia. In addition, BPs exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer potential, but long-term clinical studies are still needed. The aim of this review is to give a general introduction of BPs, describe their production and application methods, present data regarding bioactivity and bioavailability, and finally highlight the future prospects of this class of molecules in clinical practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Nutraceuticals from Editorial Board Members)

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20 pages, 1110 KiB

Open AccessReview

Understanding the Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Analgesic Effect of Ginger

by Corina Andrei, Anca Zanfirescu, George Mihai Nițulescu and Simona Negreș

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 384-403; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040029 - 24 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3069

Abstract

Chronic pain has a high prevalence and a profound impact on patients and society, and its treatment is a real challenge in clinical practice. Ginger is emerging as a promising analgesic—effective against various types of pain and well-tolerated by patients. However, we are [...] Read more.

Chronic pain has a high prevalence and a profound impact on patients and society, and its treatment is a real challenge in clinical practice. Ginger is emerging as a promising analgesic—effective against various types of pain and well-tolerated by patients. However, we are just beginning to understand its complex mechanism of action. A good understanding of its mechanism would allow us to fully utilize the therapeutical potential of this herbal medicine as well as to identify a better strategy for treating chronic pain. To provide this information, we searched PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science for in vitro studies or animal experiments investigating the analgesic effect of ginger extract or its components. The analysis of data was carried out in the form of a narrative review. Our research indicates that ginger extract, through its various active ingredients, suppresses the transmission of nociceptive signals while activating the descendent inhibitory pathways of pain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Nutraceuticals in Actual Therapeutic Strategies)

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19 pages, 1518 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Waste from Food and Agro-Food Industries as Pigment Sources: Recovery Techniques, Stability and Food Applications

by Daniele Sanna and Angela Fadda

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 365-383; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040028 - 11 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2459

Abstract

This review discusses the innovative recovery techniques, the stability and the potential applications of pigments attainable from food waste and agro-food industries. It also discusses the effects of the extraction method on the chemical characteristics of the extracted pigments. The main pigment classes, [...] Read more.

This review discusses the innovative recovery techniques, the stability and the potential applications of pigments attainable from food waste and agro-food industries. It also discusses the effects of the extraction method on the chemical characteristics of the extracted pigments. The main pigment classes, namely anthocyanins, betalains, carotenoids and chlorophylls, are described with a focus on their beneficial health effects, antioxidant properties and chemical stability. The potential applications as food additives are also discussed, taking into account the legislative aspects of their usage, the stability in food matrices and the improvements of food nutritional and organoleptic quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pigments in Food: Chemistry, Biological Activities and Therapeutical Potential of a Rainbow for Human Health)

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15 pages, 2567 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Lemna as a Sustainable, Highly Nutritious Crop: Nutrient Production in Different Light Environments

by Stephanie K. Polutchko, Jared J. Stewart, Maureen McNamara, Naiara Doherty Garcia, Marina López-Pozo, William W. Adams III and Barbara Demmig-Adams

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 350-364; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040027 - 11 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2059

Abstract

Development of a nutritious, sustainable food source is essential to address worldwide deficiencies in human micronutrients. Aquatic floating plants (e.g., species in the family Lemnaceae, duckweeds) are uniquely suited for area-efficient productivity with exceptionally high rates of growth and nutritional quality. Here, we [...] Read more.

Development of a nutritious, sustainable food source is essential to address worldwide deficiencies in human micronutrients. Aquatic floating plants (e.g., species in the family Lemnaceae, duckweeds) are uniquely suited for area-efficient productivity with exceptionally high rates of growth and nutritional quality. Here, we provide an overview of the role of dietary micronutrients (with a focus on carotenoids) in human health and the promise of Lemnaceae as sustainable crops. We examine the effect of growth light environment on plant biomass production and levels of the carotenoids zeaxanthin, lutein, and pro-vitamin A (β-carotene), as well as the antioxidant vitamin E (α-tocopherol), and protein. Data on each of these nutrients are reported on a plant dry biomass basis (as relevant for nutrition) as well as relative to the required input of light energy (as relevant to resource-use efficiency). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pigments in Food: Chemistry, Biological Activities and Therapeutical Potential of a Rainbow for Human Health)

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15 pages, 1991 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Arctium lappa Lam. and Its Related Lignans Improve Hyperglycemia and Dyslipidemia in Diabetic Rodent Models: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Shihori Watanabe, Shizuko Yamabe and Masako Shimada

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 335-349; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040026 - 11 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1821

Abstract

Research on nutraceuticals has focused on reducing the onset, progression, and significant consequences of diabetes mellitus. Arctium lappa Lam. is a great source of plant fibers and polyphenols that have anti-disease benefits, including those for diabetes mellitus. This study sought to determine the [...] Read more.

Research on nutraceuticals has focused on reducing the onset, progression, and significant consequences of diabetes mellitus. Arctium lappa Lam. is a great source of plant fibers and polyphenols that have anti-disease benefits, including those for diabetes mellitus. This study sought to determine the impact of Arctium lappa Lam. extracts and its associated lignans on diabetic hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia by conducting meta-analyses of the available research using diabetic rodents. English-language peer-reviewed articles were searched by PubMed and Embase up until 10 August 2022. Included were studies comparing the blood glucose and/or lipid levels of diabetic rodents given either extracts of Arctium lappa Lam. and its related lignans or vehicles. Blood glucose levels were reported in 16 studies involving 168 diabetic mice or rats treated with Arctium lappa Lam. and 168 diabetic controls. The pooled effect size was −1.42 [95% CI: −1.84 to −1.00] with significant heterogeneity. Type of diabetic model was found to be the prominent covariate that explained, at least partially, the heterogeneity. Moreover, diabetic rodents treated with Arctium lappa Lam. showed a notable improvement in their hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Nutraceuticals in Actual Therapeutic Strategies)

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12 pages, 1121 KiB

Open AccessReview

Anticancer Properties of Aqueous Extracts from Leguminosae

by Luca Serventi, Xuanyi Cai, Ruitian Chen, Nadeesha Dilrukshi, Jingyi Su, Refi Priskila Novaleta Tuange and Elizabeth Eilidh Ham

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 323-334; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040025 - 01 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2283

Abstract

Inflammation and cancer are diseases caused by genetic and environmental factors as well as altered microbiota. Diet plays a role, with leguminous such as beans (Phaseolus vulgaris, Vicia faba), chickpeas (Cicer arietinum), lentils (Lens culinaris), peas [...] Read more.

Inflammation and cancer are diseases caused by genetic and environmental factors as well as altered microbiota. Diet plays a role, with leguminous such as beans (Phaseolus vulgaris, Vicia faba), chickpeas (Cicer arietinum), lentils (Lens culinaris), peas (Pisum sativum) and soybeans (Glycine max), known to prevent such diseases. Processing of food leguminous yields aqueous side streams. These products are nothing short of water extracts of leguminous, containing albumin, globulin, saponins, and oligosaccharides. This review analysed the most recent findings on the anticancer activities of legume-soluble nutrients. Albumin from chickpeas and peas inhibits the pro-inflammatory mediator interleukins, while soy Bowman–Birk Inhibitor inhibits serine proteases. The peptide vicilin activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor, mediating triglyceride metabolism. Soyasaponins promote apoptosis of cancer cells by activating caspases and by enhancing the concentration of intracellular calcium. Soyasapogenol regulates specific protein pathways, leading to apoptosis. Oligosaccharides such as raffinose and stachyose promote the synthesis of short chain fatty acids, balancing the intestinal microbiota, as result of their prebiotic activity. Verbascoside also modulate signalling pathways, leading to apoptosis. In closing, water extracts of leguminous have the potential to be efficient anticancer ingredients, by means of numerous mechanisms based on the raw material and the process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Nutraceuticals in Actual Therapeutic Strategies)

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12 pages, 1519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ormona^® SI and Ormona^® RC—New Nutraceuticals with Geranylgeraniol, Tocotrienols, Anthocyanins, and Isoflavones—Decrease High-Fat Diet-Induced Dyslipidemia in Wistar Rats

by Ana Paula Santos Rodrigues, Raimundo da Silva Barbosa, Arlindo César Matias Pereira, Mateus Alves Batista, Priscila Faimann Sales, Adriana Maciel Ferreira, Nayara Nilcia Dias Colares, Heitor Ribeiro da Silva, Marcelo Oliveira dos Santos Soares, Lorane Izabel da Silva Hage-Melim and José Carlos Tavares Carvalho

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 311-322; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040024 - 26 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2415

Abstract

Dyslipidemia is a metabolic condition linked to increased morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two new nutraceuticals derived from annatto (Bixa orellana), açaí (Euterpe oleracea), and soybean germ or red clover isoflavones (Trifolium pratense) [...] Read more.

Dyslipidemia is a metabolic condition linked to increased morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two new nutraceuticals derived from annatto (Bixa orellana), açaí (Euterpe oleracea), and soybean germ or red clover isoflavones (Trifolium pratense) against high-fat-induced dyslipidemia in female Wistar rats. The formulations were assessed through GC-MS and HPLC-UV/Vis. Next, female Wistar rats received daily administrations of coconut oil and were treated with Ormona^® SI (OSI), Ormona^® RC (ORC), soybean germ (SG), simvastatin (simv.), simvastatin + Ormona^® SI (simv. + OSI), or only distilled water (control). Biochemical tests were performed using the animals’ blood, and their arteries were screened for atheroma formation. The results show abnormal TC, TG, LDL, and HDL levels caused by the high-fat diet, increased glucose levels, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and atherogenesis. The nutraceuticals significantly ameliorated all conditions, with results that are similar to the group treated with simvastatin. Notably, the groups treated with either Ormona^® or simvastatin + Ormona^® had better liver protection than those treated only with SG or simvastatin; additionally, the nutraceuticals could prevent atherogenesis, unlike SG. The results indicate a high efficacy of the nutraceuticals in preventing dyslipidemia and its complications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pigments in Food: Chemistry, Biological Activities and Therapeutical Potential of a Rainbow for Human Health)

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11 pages, 1589 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Almond, Hazelnut, and Pistachio Skin: An Opportunity for Nutraceuticals

by Tariq A. Alalwan, Duha Mohammed, Mariam Hasan, Domenico Sergi, Cinzia Ferraris, Clara Gasparri, Mariangela Rondanelli and Simone Perna

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 300-310; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040023 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3162

Abstract

Nuts are dry, single-seeded fruits, with a combination of beneficial compounds that aid in disease prevention and treatment. This review aims to summarize the antioxidant components and the nutraceutical properties and applications of hazelnut, almond, and pistachio skins, as well as discuss their [...] Read more.

Nuts are dry, single-seeded fruits, with a combination of beneficial compounds that aid in disease prevention and treatment. This review aims to summarize the antioxidant components and the nutraceutical properties and applications of hazelnut, almond, and pistachio skins, as well as discuss their ability to prevent and treat specific diseases based on in vitro and in vivo studies. The search strategy included searching PubMed database and Google Scholar for relevant articles published in English. Research articles focusing on hazelnut, pistachio, and almond were included. The nut skin extracts were considered and other by-products were excluded from this search. Pistachio and almond skin hydroalcoholic extracts have antibacterial effects and decrease the risk of liver cancer by eliminating reactive oxygen species. Moreover, hazelnut skin can lower plasma against low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, thus reducing the risk of colon cancer, and its polyphenolic extract can also decrease the formation of advanced glycation end products in vitro with multidimensional effects. Overall, hazelnut, pistachio, and almond skins are a great source of antioxidants, making them suitable for nutraceuticals’ development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Foods as a New Therapeutic Strategy)

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11 pages, 2166 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Study of the Antioxidant Potential of UV-Treated Vegetables

by Svetlana Ivanova and Alexander Prosekov

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 289-299; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040022 - 14 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1370

Abstract

The effect of UV-A irradiation (353 nm, 365 nm, and 400 nm) on the antioxidant properties of fresh vegetables (cucumbers, bell peppers, zucchinis) was investigated. This type of processing was found to increase the total content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids in vegetables. [...] Read more.

The effect of UV-A irradiation (353 nm, 365 nm, and 400 nm) on the antioxidant properties of fresh vegetables (cucumbers, bell peppers, zucchinis) was investigated. This type of processing was found to increase the total content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids in vegetables. With a UV irradiation of 360 min at a wavelength of 365 nm, the greatest increase in antioxidant activity occurred in vegetable samples vs. untreated control samples. The total content of phenolic compounds increased by 34–58% and the content of flavonoids by 26–53% for various vegetable varieties. There was an increase in the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase up to 86%, peroxidase from 38%, polyphenol oxidase up to 74% depending on the variety of vegetables) after 360 min of exposure (p < 0.05). The results of the conducted studies indicate that post-harvest ultraviolet irradiation of vegetables has the potential to control the antioxidant characteristics of vegetables; however, additional research is needed to form a complete mechanism of this effect and create a technology for vegetable processing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applied Sciences in Functional Foods - 2nd Volume)

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11 pages, 1980 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Development of Quercetin-DHA Ester-Based Pectin Conjugates as New Functional Supplement: Effects on Cell Viability and Migration

by Gabriele Carullo, Umile Gianfranco Spizzirri, Rocco Malivindi, Vittoria Rago, Marisa Francesca Motta, Danilo Lofaro, Donatella Restuccia and Francesca Aiello

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 278-288; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040021 - 11 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1950

Abstract

A quercetin derivative with remarkable biological performance was successfully synthesized by chemical modification of the flavonoid with docosahexaenoic acid to synthesize 2-(2,2-diphenylbenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-5,7-dihydroxy-4-oxo-4H-chromen-3-yl-(4Z,7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z)-docosa-4,7,10,13,16,19-hexaenoate (3), deeply characterized by NMR [...] Read more.

A quercetin derivative with remarkable biological performance was successfully synthesized by chemical modification of the flavonoid with docosahexaenoic acid to synthesize 2-(2,2-diphenylbenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-5,7-dihydroxy-4-oxo-4H-chromen-3-yl-(4Z,7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z)-docosa-4,7,10,13,16,19-hexaenoate (3), deeply characterized by NMR spetroscopy. Modified quercetin and pectin were involved in a grafting process by an ecofriendly radical procedure able to preserve the biological features of the quercetin derivative. Antioxidant performances of the conjugate were evaluated both in term of total phenolic amount and scavenger activity in organic and aqueous environments. Additionally, in vitro acute oral toxicity was also tested against Caco-2 cells and 3T3 fibroblasts, confirming that pectin conjugate does not have any effect on cell viability at the dietary use concentrations. Finally, in vitro experiments highlighted the ability of the conjugate to counteract the migratory properties of Caco-2 and HepG2 cells, indicating its feature in the reduction of the migration of tumour cells. These data showed that the covalent binding of the quercetin derivative to the pectin chain represents a very interesting strategy to improve the bioavailability of the quercetin, representing an effective means of protecting and to transporting polyphenol molecules. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Foods as a New Therapeutic Strategy)

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8 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Nutritional Supplements and Lipedema: Scientific and Rational Use

by Roberto Cannataro and Erika Cione

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 270-277; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040020 - 03 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 19110

Abstract

Lipedema is a pathology of the adipose tissue, in evident female prevalence, diagnosed clinically and still of not well-defined etiopathogenesis. Indeed, an estrogen-related component is present, and an inflammatory state and a condition of edema are present in most cases; even pain seems [...] Read more.

Lipedema is a pathology of the adipose tissue, in evident female prevalence, diagnosed clinically and still of not well-defined etiopathogenesis. Indeed, an estrogen-related component is present, and an inflammatory state and a condition of edema are present in most cases; even pain seems to be a recurring feature, and insulin resistance is also often associated with lipedema. The therapeutic approach is finally becoming holistic. Therefore, with surgery, physiotherapy, and elastic compression therapy, the nutritional aspect of food supplementation is gaining much value. The objective of the present work is to consider the nutritional supplements that could be useful to manage this condition, underlining that, at the moment, the specific literature is practically non-existent. The most promising supplements seem to be omega 3 fish oil, polyphenols, and vitamin C, but the need for studies in this sector is urgent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Nutraceuticals from Editorial Board Members)

17 pages, 1044 KiB

Open AccessReview

Plant Seed Mucilage—Great Potential for Sticky Matter

by Matúš Kučka, Katarína Ražná, Ľubomír Harenčár and Terézia Kolarovičová

Nutraceuticals 2022, 2(4), 253-269; https://doi.org/10.3390/nutraceuticals2040019 - 26 Sep 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5496

Abstract

Some seeds of flowering plants can differentiate their seed coat epidermis into the specialized cell layer producing a hydrophilic mucilage with several ecological functions, such as seed hydration, protection, spatial fixation, stimulation of metabolic activity and development of seed. Due to the species- [...] Read more.

Some seeds of flowering plants can differentiate their seed coat epidermis into the specialized cell layer producing a hydrophilic mucilage with several ecological functions, such as seed hydration, protection, spatial fixation, stimulation of metabolic activity and development of seed. Due to the species- and genotype-dependent variabilities in the chemical composition of mucilage, mucilage does not display the same functional properties and its role depends on the respective species and environment. Mucilaginous substances, depending on their composition, exhibit many preventive and curative effects for human and animal health, which has significant potential in the agricultural, food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. This paper summarizes the ecological, biological, and functional properties of mucilaginous plant substances and highlights their significant nutritional potential in terms of the development of functional foods, and nutraceuticals and dietary supplements. A paragraph describing the gene regulation of seed mucilage synthesis is included, and some recommendations for the direction of further research on mucilaginous substances are outlined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Foods as a New Therapeutic Strategy)

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Nutraceuticals, Volume 2, Issue 4 (December 2022) – 14 articles

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