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Cinnamon has many health improving compounds such as proanthocyanidins, which also have potential for the prevention of damages caused by diabetes. Similarly, α-tocopherol is a natural antioxidant with important role on protection of fatty acids in membranes and lipoproteins. However, the addition of antioxidants in food may result in interaction with food matrix, low stability and unpleasant taste. In the present study, a proanthocyanidin-rich cinnamon extract (PRCE) (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) was co-encapsulated with α-tocopherol into solid lipid microparticles (SLMs) by spray chilling. The microparticles were characterized with regard to the physical and chemical properties, morphology, proanthocyanidin stability and release profile. SLMs were spherical with an average diameter of ca. 80μm. Proanthocyanidins were highly stable in SLMs stored for up to 90days at 5, 25 and 37°C. Moreover, SLMs gradually released proanthocyanidins in simulated gastrointestinal fluids by a diffusional process, following a Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetic. Analyses of the antioxidant compounds indicated that PRCE components exhibited a higher scavenging capacity against reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). Thus, the SLMs produced in the present study have potential for application in the development of new functional foods and nutraceuticals, also providing an alternative for the controlled release of proanthocyanidins and α-tocopherol into the intestine.

Volatile compounds play a vital role in the life cycle of plants, possessing antimicrobial and anti-herbivore activities, and with a significant importance in the food, cosmetic, chemical, and pharmaceutical industry. This study aimed to identify the volatile compounds emitted by flowers of thirteen species belonging to four genera of Bromeliaceae, using headspace solid-phase micro-extraction and detection by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. A total of 71 volatile compounds belonging to nine chemical groups were identified. The compounds identified represented more than 97 % of the major components in Aechmea bicolor, Ae. bromeliifolia, Ae. distichantha, Ae. fasciata, and Vriesea friburgensis. In the Ananas varieties, over 99 % of the components were identified, and around 90 % in V. simplex. V. friburgensis presented the largest diversity of volatiles with 31 compounds, while Alcantarea nahoumii presented only 14. All three Ananas varieties presented the same 28 compounds in relatively similar abundance, which has been confirmed by principal component analysis. Current taxonomy and pollination syndrome studies available can adequately explain the variation in volatile compounds among species. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (3): 1101-1116. Epub 2016 September 01. ResumenLos compuestos volátiles tienen un papel vital en el ciclo de vida de las plantas. Poseen actividad antimicrobiana y anti-herbivoría biológica y una gran importancia en la industria de alimentos, cosméticos, perfumes, productos químicos y farmacéuticos. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo identificar los compuestos volátiles de trece flores de especies, pertenecientes a cuatro géneros de Bromeliaceae utilizando microextracción en fase sólida mediante cromatografía de gases hifenada con espacio de cabeza acoplada a espectrometría de masas. Se han identificado setenta y un diferentes compuestos volátiles pertenecientes a nueve grupos. Los compuestos identificados representaron más del 97 % de los componentes principales en Aechmea bicolor, Ae. bromeliifolia, Ae. distichantha, Ae. fasciata, Vriesea friburgensis, 99 % en las variedades de Ananas y 90 % en V. Simplex. V. friburgensis mostró la mayor diversidad de compuestos volátiles con 31, mientras que en Al. nahoumii se han encontrado sólo 14 compuestos. Las tres variedades de Ananas presentan los mismos 28 compuestos en cantidades relativamente similares, lo que se confirmó por el análisis de componentes principales. Estudios taxonómicos y síndromes de polinización disponibles podrían explicar la variación de los compuestos volátiles entre especies.

The objective of this study was to determine and correlate the extraction yields, antioxidant activity, total phenolics and total flavonoids from grape, mango and peanut agro-industrial by-products. The β-carotene/linoleic acid autoxidation system and scavenging capacity for DPPH and ABTS free radicals assays were used. The results were expressed in terms of lyophilized sample or dry extract. Mango bagasse exhibited the highest extraction yield (37.07%) followed by peanut skin (15.17%) and grape marc (7.92%). In terms of lyophilized sample, total phenolics did not vary significantly among the residues evaluated (average of 60.33mg EAG g-1); however, when they were expressed as dry extract grape marc exhibited the highest total phenolic (768.56±116.35mg GAE g-1), followed by peanut skin (404.40±13.22mg GAE g-1) and mango bagasse (160.25±4.52mg GAE g-1), Peanut skin exhibited the highest content of total flavonoids (2.44mg QE g-1), while grape marc (1.76mg QE g-1) and mango bagasse (1.70 mg QE g-1) showed no significant differences. The extraction yield showed strong negative linear correlation with total phenolic and total flavonoid. This study showed that peanut skin was the sample with the highest antioxidant activity and it was strongly influenced by total flavonoids. All extracts of byproducts showed antioxidant activity comparable to α-tocopherol, and they can be a source of natural compounds with potential to replace synthetic antioxidants such as BHT. RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar e correlacionar os rendimentos de extração, atividade antioxidante, compostos fenólicos totais e flavonoides de subprodutos agroindustriais de uva, manga e amendoim. A autoxidação do sistema β-caroteno/ácido linoleico e a capacidade de sequestro dos radicais DPPH e ABTS foram os ensaios antioxidantes utilizados. Os resultados foram expressos com base na amostra liofilizada ou no extrato seco. O bagaço de manga apresentou o maior rendimento de extração (37,07%) seguido da película de amendoim (15,17%) e bagaço de uva (7,92%). Em termos de amostra liofilizada, o teor de fenólicos totais não variou significativamente entre os resíduos avaliados (média de 60,33mg EAG g-1), entretanto, quando foi expresso com base no extrato seco, o bagaço de uva exibiu o maior teor de fenólicos totais (768,56±116,35mg EAG g-1), seguido da película de amendoim (404,40±13,22mg EAG g-1) e bagaço de manga (160,25±4,52 mg EAG g-1). Apelícula de amendoim apresentou o maior conteúdo de flavonoides totais (2,44mg EQ g-1), enquanto os bagaços de uva (1,76mg EQ g-1) e de manga (1,70mg EQ g-1) não mostraram diferenças significativas. O rendimento de extração mostrou fortes correlações lineares negativas como teor de fenólicos totais e flavonoides totais. Este estudo mostrou que a películade amendoim foi o material que apresentou a maior atividade antioxidante e isso foi fortemente influenciado por flavonoides totais. Os extratos avaliados mostraram atividade antioxidante comparável à do α-tocoferol, com potencial para substituir antioxidantes sintéticos, tais como o BHT.

Hypertension is a systemic condition with high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide, which poses an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we demonstrated the antioxidant and vasodilator activity of Ugni molinae Turcz. (Murtilla) fruit, a berry native to Chile and proposed models to explain its modulatory mechanism in hypotensive response. Murtilla fruits were cultivated in a germplasm bank and submitted to chemical and biological analyses. The phenolic compounds gallic acid, Catechin, Quercetin-3-β-D-glucoside, Myricetin, Quercetin, and Kaempferol were identified. Murtilla extract did not generate toxic effects on human endothelial cells and had significant antioxidant activity against ROS production, lipid peroxidation, and superoxide anion production. Furthermore, it showed dose-dependent vasodilator activity in aortic rings in the presence of endothelium, whose hypotensive mechanism is partially mediated by nitric oxide synthase/guanylate cyclase and large-conductance calcium-dependent potassium channels. Murtilla fruits might potentially have beneficial effects on the management of cardiovascular diseases.

Propolis is a complex resinous mixture collected by bees, with high medicinal, historical and economic value. The nutraceutical and pharmacological benefits of propolis have been extensively explored in several fields of medicine as an important resource for prevention and treatment of oral and systemic diseases. A relatively new type of propolis, named red propolis (in Brazil, Brazilian Red Propolis - BRP), has been arousing attention for the promising pharmacological properties of some of its isolated compounds (vestitol, neovestitol, quercetin, medicarpin, formononetin, etc). Due to a distinct chemical composition, BRP and its isolated compounds (mainly isoflavones) affect a wide range of biological targets and could have an impact against numerous diseases as an antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory, antioxidant and antiproliferative agent. In this review, we comprehensively address the main aspects related to BRP bioprospection, chemistry and therapeutic potential. Further information is provided on mechanisms of action discovered thus far as well as clinical use in humans and regulatory aspects. As of now, BRP and its isolated molecules remain a fascinating topic for further research and application in biomedical areas and dentistry.

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of CAPE on the insulin signaling and inflammatory pathway in the liver of mice with high fat diet induced obesity. Material/Methods Swiss mice were fed with standard chow or high-fat diet for 12-week. After the eighth week, animals in the HFD group with serum glucose levels higher than 200 mg/dL were divided into two groups, HFD and HFD receiving 30 mg/kg of CAPE for 4 weeks. After 12 weeks, the blood samples could be collected and liver tissue extracted for hormonal and biochemical measurements, and insulin signaling and inflammatory pathway analyzes. Results The high-fat diet group exhibited more weight gain, glucose intolerance, and hepatic steatosis compared with standard diet group. The CAPE treatment showed improvement in glucose sensitivity characterized by an area under glucose curve similar to the control group in an oral glucose tolerance test Furthermore, CAPE treatment promoted amelioration in hepatic steatosis compared with the high-fat diet group. The increase in glucose sensitivity was associated with the improvement in insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of the insulin receptor substrate-2, followed by an increase in Akt phosphorylation. In addition, it was observed that CAPE reduced the induction of the inflammatory pathway, c-jun-N- terminal kinase, the nuclear factor kappa B, and cyclooxygenase-2 expression, respectively. Conclusions Overall, these findings indicate that CAPE exhibited anti-inflammatory activity that partly restores normal metabolism, reduces the molecular changes observed in obesity and insulin resistance, and therefore has a potential as a therapeutic agent in obesity.

Ethnopharmacological relevance: The pharmacological activity of geopropolis collected by stingless bees (important and threatened pollinators), a product widely used in folk medicine by several communities in Brazil, especially in the Northeast Region, needs to be studied. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antinociceptive activity of Melipona scutellaris geopropolis (stingless bee) using different models of nociception. Material and methods: The antinociceptive activity of the ethanolic extract of geopropolis (EEGP) and fractions was evaluated using writhing induced by acetic acid, formalin test, carrageenan-induced hypernociception, and quantification of IL-1 b and TNF-a. The chemical composition was assessed by quantification of total flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Results: EEGP and its hexane and aqueous fractions showed antinociceptive activity. Both EEGP and its aqueous fraction presented activity in the mechanical inflammatory hypernociception induced by the carrageenan model, an effect mediated by the inhibition of IL-1b and TNF-a. The chemical composition of EEGP and its hexane and aqueous fractions showed a significant presence of phenolic compounds and absence of flavonoids. Conclusion: Our data indicate that geopropolis is a natural source of bioactive substances with promising antinociceptive activity.

Peanut samples were irradiated (0.0, 5.2, 7.2 or 10.0 kGy), stored for a year (room temperature) and examined every three months. Mycotoxic fungi (MF) were detected in non-irradiated blanched peanuts. A dose of 5.2 kGy was found suitable to prevent MF growth in blanched samples. No MF was detected in in-shell peanuts, with or without irradiation. The colors of the control in-shell and blanched samples were, respectively, 44.72 and 60.21 (L *); 25.20 and 20.38 (Chroma); 53.05 and 86.46 (°Hue). The water activities (Aw) were 0.673 and 0.425. The corresponding fatty acids were 13.33% and 12.14% (C16:0), 44.94% and 44.92% (C18:1, ω9) and 37.10% and 37.63% (C18:2, ω6). The total phenolics (TP) were 4.62 and 2.52 mg GAE/g, with antioxidant activities (AA) of 16.97 and 10.36 μmol TEAC/g. Storage time negatively correlated with Aw (in-shell peanuts) or L *, linoleic acid, TP and AA (in-shell and blanched peanuts) but positively correlated with Aw (blanched peanuts), and with oleic acid (in-shell and blanched peanuts). Irradiation positively correlated with antioxidant activity (blanched peanuts). No correlation was found between irradiation and AA (in-shell samples) or fatty acids and TP (in-shell and blanched peanuts). Irradiation protected against MF and retained both the polyunsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols in the samples.

Vegetables are widely consumed in Brazil and exported to several countries. This study was performed to evaluate the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of vegetables commonly consumed in Brazil using five different methods, namely DPPH and ABTS free radical, β-carotene bleaching, reduction of Fe3+ (FRAP), oxidative stability in Rancimat, and the chemical composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The content of phenolic compounds ranged from 1.2 mg GA/g (carrot) to 16.9 mg GA/g (lettuce). Vegetables presenting the highest antioxidant activity were lettuce (77.2 µmol Trolox/g DPPH•; 447.1 µmol F2+/g FRAP), turmeric (118.6 µmol Trolox/g ABTS•+; 92.8% β-carotene), watercress and broccoli (protective factor 1.29—Rancimat method). Artichoke, spinach, broccoli, and asparagus also showed considerable antioxidant activity. The most frequent phenolic compounds identified by GC-MS were ferulic, caffeic, p-coumaric, 2-dihydroxybenzoic, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acids, and quercetin. We observed antioxidant activity in several vegetables and our results point out their importance in the diet.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-28T19:03:54Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2012-01-01 Avocado is a tropical fruit is high nutritional value. This fruit is also rich in carotenoids and vitamins, particularly vitamin E, however, it is sensitive to climate and is perishable. So, postharvest techniques are needed to prolong its useful life and to maintain its nutritional quality. This work evaluates the antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content and coloration of Hass avocado submitted to UV-C radiation. Fruits were selected and exposed to the ultraviolet light for 5, 10, 15 and 20 min. They were then stored in a refrigerator (10±1oC and 90±5% relative humidity) and evaluated over a 12-day period. The values of total polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity were superior for the control fruits in the two storage conditions during the experimental period. The brightness, color a * and b * values decreased with the storage days. Superior color values were observed for the control fruits and those kept refrigerated. No significant correlation was found between antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content. © 2012 Bentham Science Publishers. UNESP, C.P. 237, Botucatu 18610307, SP University of São Paulo ESALQ/USP-Piracicaba UNESP, C.P. 237, Botucatu 18610307, SP

In-shell, peeled and blanched peanut samples were characterized in relation to proximate composition and fatty acid profile. No difference was found in relation to its proximate composition. The three major fatty acids were palmitic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid. In order to investigate irradiation and storage effects, peanut samples were submitted to doses of 0.0, 5.0, 7.5 or 10.0 kGy, stored for six months at room temperature and monitored every three months. Peanuts responded differently to irradiation, particularly with regards to tocopherol contents, primary and secondary oxidation products and oil stability index. Induction periods and tocopherol contents were negatively correlated with irradiation doses and decreased moderately during storage. α-Tocopherol was the most gamma radiation sensitive and peeled samples were the most affected. A positive correlation was found among tocopherol contents and the induction period of the oils extracted from irradiated samples. Gamma radiation and storage time increased oxidation compounds production. If gamma radiation is considered an alternative for industrial scale peanut conservation, in-shell samples are the best feedstock. For the best of our knowledge this is the first article with such results; this way it may be helpful as basis for future studies on gamma radiation of in-shell crops.

Summary The aim of this study was to prepare and characterise alcohol -free propolis powder obtained using the spray -drying technique. The inlet air temperature that caused the least loss of phenolic compounds during spray drying was determined. A temperature of 120∫C was s elected, and a sprayed dried sample of propolis was obtained. The sample was evaluated for moisture, water activity, hygroscopicity, s olubility, thermal behaviour, morphology, stability of flavonoids and antioxidant activity whilst stored for 120 days at a temperature u nder 25 o C. The sample displayed low hygroscopicity and water solubility. Its flavonoids remained stable during the storage period; however, thesample presented a tendency to agglomerate and it did not present a well -defined glass transition range. The spray drying process cause d significant loss of phenolic compounds (approximately 30%) but antioxidant properties were retained. Thus, it was concluded that the spra y-drying dehydration process may be used to obtain alcohol -free propolis powder thatpossesses antioxidantactivity and stable flavonoids during storage.

The propolis has potential to be a natural food additive. However, its application is limited, because it is alcohol-soluble and has strong flavour. Microencapsulation may be an alternative for reducing these problems. The aim of this study was to encapsulate propolis extract by complex coacervation using isolated soy protein and pectin as encapsulant agents. The coacervation was studied as a function of pH (5.0, 4.5, 4.0 and 3.5) and the concentration of encapsulants and core (2.5 and 5.0 g/100 mL). Samples obtained at pH 4.0 in both concentrations were lyophilized and analyzed for hygroscopicity, encapsulation efficiency, particle size, morphology, thermal behavior, stability of phenolic and flavonoids during storage, as well as antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. It was possible to encapsulate propolis extract by complex coacervation and to obtain it in the form of powder, alcohol-free, stable, with antioxidant property, antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and with the possibility of controlled release in foods.

Aqueous extract of mate (dried leaves of Ilex paraguariensis) added to drinking water for broilers for the last 14 days prior to slaughter did not affect performance at 25 days of age, but improved oxidative stability of the chicken meat. Oxidative stability of precooked breast meat made from control meat (CON) and from meat of broilers raised on water with mate added was investigated during chill storage for up to 7 days. The use of mate showed no influence on the content of lipids in chicken breast meat; however, lipid oxidation measured as thiobarbituric acid–reactive substances (TBARS) was significantly lower for meat from broilers raised on water with mate extracts in different concentrations (MA0.1, MA0.5, and MA1.0 corresponding to 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0% of mate dried leaves). The relative effect was largest at 1 day of storage with more than 50% reduction on TBARS; the result was still significant after 3 days, but almost vanished after 7 days, when oxidative rancidity was very high in all samples. In meat from broilers raised on water with mate extract, vitamin E was protected during cooking, although in the very rancid meat balls at 7 days of storage, the protection almost disappeared. Nevertheless, mate can be an interesting natural alternative to be used in chicken diets to improve lipid stability of the meat.

Summary The effectiveness of grape extracts as food ingredient has been tested in various systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of four concentrations of residues of the wine industry in delaying lipid oxidation in processed chicken meat stored under refrigeration. The development of oxidation during the 14-day storage was evaluated through the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances method (TBAS). The analyses of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity were performed in grape residue extracts through DPPH (1,1-difenil-2-picrilidrazil) method, lipid peroxidation inhibition and Rancimat. The profile of polyphenols was determined using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Isabel grape extract (IGE) and Niagara grape extract (NGE) showed significant content of phenolic compounds. NGE and IGE had high antioxidant activity. The addition of grape extracts significantly increased the oxidative stability of processed and cooked chicken meat during the storage time. The extracts from both grape varieties when applied in concentrations of 40 and 60 mg of GAE, presented results similar to that of Butyl hydroxy toluene (BHT).

The antiproliferative activity of two prenylated benzophenones isolated from Rheedia brasiliensis, the triprenylated garciniaphenone and the tetraprenylated benzophenone 7-epiclusianone, was investigated against human cancer cell lines. The antiproliferative activity on melanoma (UACC-62), breast (MCF-7), drug-resistant breast (NCI-ADR), lung/non-small cells (NCI460), ovarian (OVCAR 03), prostate (PC03), kidney (786-0), lung (NCI-460) and tongue (CRL-1624 and CRL-1623) cancer cells was determined using spectrophotometric quantification of the cellular protein content. The effect of these benzophenones on the activity of cathepsins B and G was also investigated. Garciniaphenone displayed cytostatic activity in all cell lines, whereas 7-epiclusianone showed a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect. The IC50 values for cell proliferation revealed that 7-epiclusianone is more active than garciniaphenone against most of the cell lines. Furthermore, the antiproliferative effects demonstrated by garciniaphenone and 7-epiclusianone were related to their cathepsin inhibiting properties. In conclusion, 7-epiclusianone is a promising naturally occurring agent which displays multiple inhibitory effects which may be working in concert to inhibit cancer cell proliferation in vitro. The putative pathway by which 7-epiclusianone affects cancer cell development may involve cathepsin inhibition. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Resumen Processed tea and herbal infusions were studied for their phenol content, antioxidant activity and main flavonoids. Total phenolics were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu method and ranged from N.D. to 46.46 ± 0.44 mg/g GAE. Flavonoids were investigated by HPLC, and myricetin, quercetin, kaempferol were identified in black, green, and chamomile tea. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using two methods: DPPH and β-carotene bleaching test (BCB). Using the BCB, the highest activities were found for infusions of black tea, mate, lemongrass, chamomile, and fennel; whereas fresh herbal infusions presented the lowest activities. Using the DPPH method, fresh herbal infusions presented the highest activities. Processed leaves with the lowest IC50 values were green and black tea (147.63 and 288.60 μg/mL, respectively). The results of this research show that the infusions studied are good source of compounds presenting antioxidant activity in vitro. Se estudio el contenido de compuestos fenolicos, princ...

Red propolis is a new type of Brazilian propolis. This material, as well as the secretions of 20 plant species that are often mentioned as its probable botanical source, have been investigated by RP-HPTLC. Phytochemical evidence based on UV-VIS spectra, RP-HPLC and GC-MS, showedDalbergia ecastophyllum(L.) Taub. to be the main source of red propolis in Alagoas state. The propolis and plant resin showed high relative percentages of the isoflavonoids 3-Hydroxy-8,9-dimethoxypterocarpan and medicarpin. To our knowledge this is the first report of the secretion of a leguminous species being the source of propolis.

Isoflavonoids have been largely studied due to their distinct biological activities identified thus far. Herein, we evaluated the activity of neovestitol, an isoflavonoid isolated from Brazilian red propolis, in acute and chronic inflammation. As for acute inflammation, we found that neovestitol reduced neutrophil migration, leukocyte rolling and adhesion, as well as expression of ICAM-1 in the mesenteric microcirculation during lipopolysaccharide-induced acute peritonitis. No changes were observed in the levels of TNF-α, CXCL1/KC and CXCL2/MIP-2 upon pretreatment with neovestitol. The administration of an inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) inhibitor abolished the inhibitory effects of neovestitol in neutrophil migration and ICAM-1 expression. Nitrite levels increased upon treatment with neovestitol. No effects of neovestitol were observed on the chemotaxis of neutrophils in vitro. As for chronic inflammation, neovestitol also reduced the clinical score and joint damage in a collagen-induced arthritis model. There was no change in the frequency of IL-17-producing TCD4+ cells. In addition, pretreatment with neovestitol reduced the levels of IL-6. These results demonstrate a potential anti-inflammatory activity of neovestitol, which may be useful for therapeutic purposes and/or as a nutraceutical.

Brazilian native fruits are unmatched in their variety, but a poorly explored resource for the development of food and pharmaceutical products. The aim of this study was to evaluate the phenolic composition as well as the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the extracts of leaves, seeds, and pulp of four Brazilian native fruits (Eugenia leitonii, Eugenia involucrata, Eugenia brasiliensis, and Eugenia myrcianthes). GC—MS analyses of the ethanolic extracts showed the presence of epicatechin and gallic acid as the major compounds in these fruits. Antioxidant activity was measured using synthetic DPPH free-radical scavenging, β-carotene bleaching assay, and reactive oxygen species (ROO·, O2·−, and HOCl). The fruit extracts also exhibited antioxidant effect against biologically relevant radicals such as peroxyl, superoxide, and hypochlorous acid. In general, the pulps were the fruit fractions that exhibited the lowest antioxidant activities, whereas the leaves showed the highest ones. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed in an in vivo model using the carrageenan-induced neutrophil migration assay, which evaluates the inflammatory response in the acute phase. The pulp, seeds, and leaves of these fruits reduced the neutrophil influx by 40% to 64%. Based on these results, we suggest that the anti-inflammatory activity of these native fruits is related to the modulation of neutrophil migration, through the inhibition of cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules, as well as to the antioxidant action of their ethanolic extracts in scavenging the free-radicals released by neutrophils. Therefore, these native fruits can be useful to produce food additives and functional foods.

Hypertension is a systemic condition with high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide, which poses an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we demonstrated the antioxidant and vasodilator activity ofUgni molinaeTurcz. (Murtilla) fruit, a berry native to Chile and proposed models to explain its modulatory mechanism in hypotensive response. Murtilla fruits were cultivated in a germplasm bank and submitted to chemical and biological analyses. The phenolic compounds gallic acid, Catechin, Quercetin-3-β-D-glucoside, Myricetin, Quercetin, and Kaempferol were identified. Murtilla extract did not generate toxic effects on human endothelial cells and had significant antioxidant activity against ROS production, lipid peroxidation, and superoxide anion production. Furthermore, it showed dose-dependent vasodilator activity in aortic rings in the presence of endothelium, whose hypotensive mechanism is partially mediated by nitric oxide synthase/guanylate cyclase and large-conductance calcium-dependent potassium channels. Murtilla fruits might potentially have beneficial effects on the management of cardiovascular diseases.

In silico and in vitro methodologies have been used as important tools in the drug discovery process, including from natural sources. The aim of this study was to predict pharmacokinetic and toxicity (ADME/Tox) properties of a coumarin isolated from geopropolis using in silico and in vitro approaches. Cinnamoyloxy-mammeisin (CNM) isolated from Brazilian M. scutellaris geopropolis was evaluated for its pharmacokinetic parameters by in silico models (ACD/Percepta™ and MetaDrug™ software). Genotoxicity was assessed by in vitro DNA damage signaling PCR array. CNM did not pass all parameters of Lipinski’s rule of five, with a predicted low oral bioavailability and high plasma protein binding, but with good predicted blood brain barrier penetration. CNM was predicted to show low affinity to cytochrome P450 family members. Furthermore, the predicted Ames test indicated potential mutagenicity of CNM. Also, the probability of toxicity for organs and tissues was classified as moderate and high for liver and kidney, and moderate and low for skin and eye irritation, respectively. The PCR array analysis showed that CNM significantly upregulated about 7% of all DNA damage-related genes. By exploring the biological function of these genes, it was found that the predicted CNM genotoxicity is likely to be mediated by apoptosis. The predicted ADME/Tox profile suggests that external use of CNM may be preferable to systemic exposure, while its genotoxicity was characterized by the upregulation of apoptosis-related genes after treatment. The combined use of in silico and in vitro approaches to evaluate these parameters generated useful hypotheses to guide further preclinical studies.

Propolis has been used as a medicinal agent to treat infections and promote wound healing for centuries. The aim of the present study was to test the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities of a new type of Brazilian propolis, popularly called red propolis, as well as to analyze its chemical composition. The antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Staphylococcus mutans UA159 was evaluated and the chloroform fraction (Chlo-fr) was the most active with lower MIC ranging from 25 to 50 microg/ml. The hexane fraction (H-fr), having the highest concentration of total flavonoids, showed the best sequestrating activity for the free radical DPPH. The ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) showed cytotoxic activity for the HeLa tumor cells with an IC(50) of 7.45 microg/ml. When the EEP was analyzed by GC-MS, seven new compounds were found, among which four were isoflavones. Our results showed that the red propolis has biologically active compounds that had never been reported in other types of Brazilian propolis.

The composition and biological activities of propolis, a resinous hive product collected by honeybees from various plant sources, depends on various factors such as season and vegetation of the area. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the seasonal effect on the ethanolic extracts of Brazilian propolis (EEP) type 6 and type 12, collected during 6 months in terms of antibacterial activity and phenolic composition. The antimicrobial properties were evaluated by MIC and MBC on S. mutans Ingbritt 1600 and the profile of chemical composition by UV-visible spectrophotometry, HPLC-RF and GC-MS. The results demonstrated that the season in which propolis is collected influences its chemical composition, resulting in modifications in its antibacterial activity.

Twenty Santa Ines ewes used to evaluate effects of oral administration of Brazilian red propolis extract on blood metabolites, milk production, and lamb performance were randomly grouped (n = 10 ewes/group) to control without propolis administration and propolis treated (3 g red propolis extract/ewe/day) 21 days before expected lambing date. Blood samples were collected weekly, and daily milk yield was recorded twice weekly until 7 weeks postpartum. Propolis administration increased (P

Although previous studies suggested an anti-inflammatory property of Brazilian red propolis (BRP), the mechanisms involved in the anti-inflammatory effects of BRP and its activity on macrophages were still not elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate whether BRP attenuates the inflammatory effect of LPS on macrophages and to investigate its underlying mechanisms. BRP was added to RAW 264.7 murine macrophages after activation with LPS. NO production, cell viability, cytokines profile were evaluated. Activation of inflammatory signaling pathways and macrophage polarization were determined by RT-qPCR and Western blot. BRP at 50 μg/ml inhibited NO production by 78% without affecting cell viability. Cd80 and Cd86 were upregulated whereas mrc1 was down regulated by BRP indicating macrophage polarization at M1. BRP attenuated the production of pro-inflammatory mediators IL-12, GM-CSF, IFN-Ɣ, IL-1β in cell supernatants although levels of TNF- α and IL-6 were slightly increased after BRP treatment. Levels of IL-4, IL-10 and TGF-β were also reduced by BRP. BRP significantly reduced the up-regulation promoted by LPS of transcription of genes in inflammatory signaling (Pdk1, Pak1, Nfkb1, Mtcp1, Gsk3b, Fos and Elk1) and of Il1β and Il1f9 (fold-change rate > 5), which were further confirmed by the inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Furthermore, the upstream adaptor MyD88 adaptor-like (Mal), also known as TIRAP, involved in TLR2 and TLR4 signaling, was down- regulated in BRP treated LPS-activated macrophages. Given that BRP inhibited multiple signaling pathways in macrophages involved in the inflammatory process activated by LPS, our data indicated that BRP is a noteworthy food-source for the discovery of new bioactive compounds and a potential candidate to attenuate exhacerbated inflammatory diseases.

Previously, it was reported that one group of propolis (Group 12) was identified in southeastern Brazil, and the botanical origin of the propolis was Baccharis dracunculifolia resinous exudates. It was also observed that honeybee (Africanized Apis mellifera) mainly visited the leaf buds or unexpanded leaves of B. dracunculifolia but rarely expanded leaves. B. dracunculifolia is dioecious with male and female inflorescences, and RPHPLC of the ethanolic extracts of the respective male and female bud resinous exudates showed the same profiles. RPHPLC profiles of propolis G12 leaf buds and unexpanded and expanded leaves of B. dracunculifolia showed similarity, but unexpanded leaves quantitatively decreased in chemical constituents as compared with leaf buds. In the case of expanded leaves, all chemical constituents were severely decreased or disappeared. Artepillin C (3,5-diprenyl-4-hydroxycinnamic acid) was also identified in both propolis and resinous exudates, and both ethanolic extracts contained the highest concentrations of this compound as compared with the rest of the chemical constituents.

Resumen Resumo The fungus filamentous Aspergillus oryzae ATCC 22786 produces high β-glucosidase activity, which is able to convert glucoside isoflavone to aglycones forms present into soybean flour. The glucoside isoflavones were obtained from defatted soy flour by alcoholic extraction using 80% methanol. It was observed that the glucoside isoflavones extracted, such as daidzin, glycitin and genistin, were efficiently transformed into their aglycones forms (daidzein, glycitein and genistein) by solid-state fermentation after 48 h at 30°C with A. oryzae spores. © 2003 Altaga. All rights reserved. El hongo filamentoso Aspergillus oryzae ATCC 22786 produce alta actividad de β-glicosidasa, la cual es capaz de convertir las glicosil isoflavonas presentes en la soja a sus formas agliconas. Las isoflavonas glicosiladas fueron obtenidas de la harina de soja desgrasada por extraccion alcoholica utilizando metanol 80%. Se observo que las isoflavonas glicosiladas extraidas tales como, daidcina, glicitina y ...

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of peanut skin extract and its effect on the color and lipid oxidation of cooked chicken patties over 15 d of refrigerated storage. The extract was obtained using 80% ethanol and evaluated in terms of total phenolic content, reducing power based on the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) reagent, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. The patties were made with ground thigh fillets, chicken skin, and 2% salt. They were homogenized and divided into the following two groups: a control treatment without antioxidants and a peanut skin treatment with 70 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/kg per patty. Analyses of the fatty acid profiles, instrumental colors (L*, a*, and b*) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were performed on d 1, 8, and 15 of storage at 1±1ºC. The peanut skin extract resulted in a phenolic content of 32.6±0.7 mg GAE/g dry skin, an antioxidant activity (FRAP) of 26.5±0.8 6 μmol Trolox equivalent/g dry skin, and an efficient concentration (EC50) of 46.5 μg/mL. The total unsaturated fatty acid was approximately 73%, and 39% of this fatty acid content was monounsaturated. The peanut skin extract slowed the decrease in the a* values (P0.05) but reduced the L* and b* values compared to the control samples during storage (P0.05). Lipid oxidation was minimized by the peanut skin extract (P0.05), which resulted in a maximum value of 0.97 malondialdehyde (MDA)/kg compared to values that were close 19 mg MDA/kg patties in the control sample at the end of storage period. Thus, it can be concluded that although peanut skin extract causes little color change, it can be applied as a natural antioxidant to cooked chicken patties because it efficiently inhibits lipid oxidation in this product during refrigerated storage.

The essential oils (EO) and bioactive fractions (BF) fromAloysia gratissima, Baccharis dracunculifolia, Coriandrum sativum, Cyperus articulatus,andLippia sidoideswere proven to have strong antimicrobial activity on planktonic microorganisms; however, little is known about their effects on the morphology or viability of oral biofilms. Previously, we determined the EO/fractions with the best antimicrobial activity againstStreptococcus mutansandCandidaspp. In this report, we used a confocal analysis to investigate the effect of these EO and BF on the morphology ofS. mutansbiofilms (thickness, biovolume, and architecture) and on the metabolic viability ofC. albicansbiofilms. The analysis of intact treatedS. mutansbiofilms showed no statistical difference for thickness in all groups compared to the control. However, a significant reduction in the biovolume of extracellular polysaccharides and bacteria was observed forA. gratissimaandL. sidoidesgroups, indicating that these BF disrupt biofilm integrity and may have created porosity in the biofilm. This phenomenon could potentially result in a weakened structure and affect biofilm dynamics. Finally,C. sativumEO drastically affectedC. albicansviability when compared to the control. These results highlight the promising antimicrobial activity of these plant species and support future translational research on the treatment of dental caries and oral candidiasis.

The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of Malva sylvestris extract (MSE) and fractions in a co-culture model of cells infected by Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. In addition, we evaluated the phytochemical content in the extract and fractions of M. sylvestris and demonstrated that polyphenols were the most frequent group in all samples studied. An in vitro dual-chamber model to mimic the periodontal structure was developed using a monolayer of epithelial keratinocytes (OBA-9) and a subepithelial layer of fibroblasts (HGF-1). The invasive periodontopathogen A. actinomycetemcomitans (D7S-1) was applied to migrate through the cell layers and induce the synthesis of immune factors and cytokines in the host cells. In an attempt to analyze the antimicrobial properties of MSE and fractions, a susceptibility test was carried out. The extract (MIC 175 μg/mL, MBC 500μg/mL) and chloroform fraction (MIC 150 μg/mL, MBC 250 μg/mL) were found to have inhibitory activity. The extract and all fractions were assessed using a cytotoxicity test and results showed that concentrations under 100 μg/mL did not significantly reduce cell viability compared to the control group (p > 0.05, viability > 90%). In order to analyze the inflammatory response, transcriptional factors and cytokines were quantified in the supernatant released from the cells. The chloroform fraction was the most effective in reducing the bacterial colonization (p< 0.05) and controlling inflammatory mediators, and promoted the down-regulation of genes including IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-10, CD14, PTGS, MMP-1 and FOS as well as the reduction of the IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-8 and GM-CSF protein levels (p< 0.05). Malva sylvestris and its chloroform fraction minimized the A. actinomycetemcomitans infection and inflammation processes in oral human cells by a putative pathway that involves important cytokines and receptors. Therefore, this natural product may be considered as a successful dual anti-inflammatory–antimicrobial candidate.

The extraction process of bioactive compounds from propolis produced by selected bees was optimized using a 2³ factorial design planning to evaluate the effect of ethanol concentration, time and temperature on the extraction of total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Analysis of total flavonoids, antioxidant activity and chemical characterization performed by high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array (HPLC-PDA) detection were carried out in optimal conditions of extraction. Optimizing results suggest that the best condition for extraction of bioactive compounds was obtained in higher levels: time (45 min), temperature (70 °C) and concentration of ethanol (80%). The extract evaluated in optimal conditions presented good antioxidant activity by the radical scavenging 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods and chromatographic analysis identified phenolic acids: para-coumaric, ferulic and caffeic, indicating that this material is a potential source of bioactive compounds.

The effect of eleven compounds extracted from red propolis on the oxidative stability of a functional emulsion was evaluated. Emulsions prepared with Echium oil as omega 3 (ω-3 FA) source, containing 1.63 g/100 mL of α-linolenic acid (ALA), 0.73 g/100 mL of stearidonic acid (SDA) and 0.65 g/100 mL of plant sterol esters (PSE) were prepared without or with phenolic compounds (vanillic acid, caffeic acid, trans-cinnamic acid, 2,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid, p-coumaric acid, quercetin, trans-ferulic acid, trans,trans-farnesol, rutin, gallic acid or sinapic acid). Tert-butylhydroquinone and a mixture containing ascorbic acid and FeSO4 were applied as negative and positive controls of the oxidation. Hydroperoxide, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), malondialdehyde and phytosterol oxidation products (POPs) were evaluated as oxidative markers. Based on hydroperoxide and TBARS analysis, sinapic acid and rutin (200 ppm) showed the same antioxidant activity than TBHQ, representing a potential alternative as natural antioxidant to be applied in a functional emulsion containing ω-3 FA and PSE.

Sendo o Brasil um grande produtor mundial de soja, torna-se necessário uma avaliação do teor de isoflavonas naqueles cultivares de maior importância para o setor agrícola e a verificação do efeito da temperatura na composição destas isoflavonas na soja. Neste trabalho pode-se observar que na temperatura de 25ºC, o cultivar IAC Foscarin 31-1 apresentou teor médio de isoflavonas de 1405mig/g, enquanto que o cultivar IAC 15-1 apresentou cerca de 3008mig/g. O aquecimento a 121ºC durante 40 minutos promoveu uma redução de até 17,6 vezes no teor de malonil isoflavonas e um aumento de aproximadamente 2,6 vezes na concentração de glicosil isoflavonas. As a major soybean producer, Brazil finds it important to characterize the isoflavone composition of those cultivars of greater agricultural relevance and to investigate the effect of the temperature of extraction on the isoflavone content. At 25ºC, the IAC Foscarin 31-1 cultivar exhibited a mean total concentration of isoflavones of 1,405mug/g, while IAC 15-1 showed about 3,008mug/g. Heating at 121ºC for 40 minutes, promoted a reduction of up to 17.6 times in the concentration of malonylglycoside isoflavones and an increase of approximately 2.6 times in the concentration of glycoside isoflavones.

Brazilian propolis has been classified into 12 groups based on physicochemical characteristics: five in the southern Brazil group (group 3), one in the southeastern Brazil group (group 12), and six in the northeastern Brazil group (group 6). The plant origins of these groups were investigated using reversed-phase high-performance thin-layer chromatography (RPHPTLC), reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RPHPLC), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). It was concluded that the origins of propolis group 3, group 6, and group 12 are resins of the poplar tree, Hyptis divaricata, and Baccharis dracunculifolia, respectively.

A própolis é uma substância resinosa coletada pelas abelhas de diversas partes da planta. Sua composição depende da época, vegetação e área de coleta. Própolis produzida por abelhas Apis mellifera africanizada do sul do Brasil, Argentina e Uruguai foram investigadas por meio de técnicas cromatográficas. De acordo com os resultados obtidos por CCDAE-FR, CLAE-FR e CG-EM, as própolis do sul do Brasil foram classificadas em 5 grupos distintos. Com base nas evidências fitoquímicas, Populus alba foi identificada como a principal fonte da própolis do grupo 3 do sul do Brasil, Argentina e Uruguai. Propolis is a resinous hive product collected by honeybees from plant source. The composition of the propolis depends upon the time, vegetation and the area of collection. Propolis produced by africanized Apis mellifera from south Brazil, Argentine and Uruguay have been investigated using chromatographic techniques. In accordance with results RP-HPTLC, RP-HPLC, and GC-MS, propolis from south Brazil were classified IN 5 groups. Based on chemical evidence Populus alba was shown to be the main propolis source of group 3 from south Brazil, Argentine and Uruguay.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the gastroprotective activity of ethanolic extract of geopropolis (EEGP) fromMelipona scutellarisand to investigate the possible mechanisms of action. The gastroprotective activity of the EEGP was evaluated using model ulcer induced by ethanol. To elucidate the possible mechanisms of action, we investigated the involvement of the nonprotein sulfhydryl (NP-SH) groups, nitric oxide and prostaglandins. In addition, the antisecretory activity of EEGP was also evaluated by pylorus ligated model. The EEGP orally administrated (300 mg/kg) reduced the ulcerative lesions induced by the ethanol (P<0.05). Regarding the mechanism of action, the prior administration of nitric oxide and prostaglandins antagonists suppressed the activity of gastroprotective EEGP (P<0.05). On the other hand the gastroprotective activity of EEGP was kept in the group pretreated with the antagonist of the NP-SH groups; furthermore the antisecretory activity was not significant (P>0.05). These results support the alternative medicine use of geopropolis as gastroprotective and the activities observed show to be related to nitric oxide and prostaglandins production.

Over the last decade a considerable increase in the number of studies addressing the use of antioxidants from natural sources has led to the identification and understanding of the potential mechanisms of biologically active components. This results from the fact that they can be used to replace synthetic antioxidants commonly used in food. Murtilla (Ugni molinae Turcz) is a native berry grown in Chile, and in the present study, the phenolic composition and antioxidant activity of its fruits were studied. Hydroalcoholic extracts of dehydrated fruits from two genotypes of murtilla (Ugni molinae Turcz.) were produced. Extracts of wild murtilla and 14-4 genotype fruits had 19.35 and 40.28mg GAE/g for Total Phenolic Compounds, 76.48, and 134.35μmol TEAC/g for DPPH, and 157.04 and 293.99 μmol TEAC/g for ABTS, respectively. Components such as quercetin, epicatechin, and gallic, benzoic and hydrocaffeic acids were identified by CG/MS analysis. All of them showed antioxidant activity. Therefore, it is possible to say that the hydroalcoholic extracts of murtilla have antioxidant potential to be used in lipidic food.

We investigated the effect of oral administration of hydroalcoholic extract of Brazilian red propolis (HERP) on DMBA-induced oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) in rodents. The chemical components of the HERP were assessed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Carcinogenesis was topically induced in the lower lip of 25 rats using 9,10-dimethyl-1,2-benzanthracene (DMBA); the tumour was treated with saline (TUM1) and Tween 80 (TUM2) as well as HERP at 10, 50 and 100 mg/kg (HERP10, HERP50 and HERP100, respectively) for 20 weeks. Topical application of saline and oral administration of 100 mg/kg HERP was used in five rats as a control group (CTR). After 26 weeks, the histological malignancy grading and immunohistochemical expression of Ki-67 and p16(INK4A) were assessed in the tumours/tissue samples. The compounds identified were propyl gallate, daidzein, catechin, epicatechin, formononetin and biochanin A. Formononetin, daidzein and biochanin A showed concentration of 23.29, 0.38 and 0.67 mg/g of HERP, respectively. HERP at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg inhibited 40% of OSCC growth and promoted a 3-week delay in development of clinically detectable tumours. Epithelial dysplasia was observed in all samples with no clinical tumour, except in CTR. No significant difference in the immunoexpression of Ki-67 and p16(INK4A) was observed between HERP-treated and saline/Tween 80-treated groups (p > 0.05). Our results suggest that HERP exerts chemopreventive activity on the progression of DMBA-induced epithelial dysplasia to OSCC in an experimental model of labial carcinogenesis; however, this effect is not associated with Ki-67 and p16(INK4A) immunoexpression.

Purification and bioassay-guided fractionation were employed to isolate proanthocyanidins with antioxidant activity from peanut skin (Arachis hypogaea Runner 886). The crude extract was prepared with acetone (60% v/v) and purified using chromatographic methods, including a semipreparative HPLC technique. As a result, two proanthocyanidins were isolated and identified using NMR, epicatechin-(2 β → O → 7, 4 β → 8)-catechin (proanthocyanidin A1) and epicatechin-(β → 2 O → 7, 4 β → 8)-epicatechin (proanthocyanidin A2). Despite the structural similarity, differences were observed in their antioxidant activity. Proanthocyanidin A1 proved to be more active, with EC50 value for DPPH radical scavenging of 18.25 μg/mL and reduction of Fe(3+)-TPTZ complex of 7.59 mmol/g, higher than that of synthetic antioxidant BHT. This compound evaluated by ABTS(+) was similar to that of natural quercetin. Therefore, peanut skin is an important source of bioactive compounds that may be used as a mild antioxidant for food preservation.

Resumen Resumo This work reports the isoflavone contents of soybean (Glycine max. L) cultivars from the Agronomic Institute of Campinas (IAC), Brazil. The effect of the temperature on extraction of soybean isoflavones was also studied. At 25°C, the IAC Foscarin 31-1 cultivar showed mean content of 1405 mg/g, whereas the IAC 15-1 cultivar showed about 3008 mg/g. Heating at 121°C for 40 min, the malonyl isofavone concentration was 17.6 times lower and the glycoside isoflavones was of 2.5 times higher. © 2001 Altaga. all rights reserved. Se analizaron los contenidos de isoflavonas en cultivares de soja (Glycine max L.) provenientes del Instituo Agronomico de Campinas (IAC), Brasil. El efecto de la temperatura en la extraccion de isoflavonas de soja tambien se estudio. A temperatura ambiente, el cultivar IAC Foscarin 31-1 presento un contenido medio de isoflavonas de 1405 mg/g, en cuanto que el cultivar IAC 15-1 presento cerca de 3008 mg/g. El calentamiento a 121°C durante 40 min provoco una reduccio...

A mastite e uma doenca multifatorial de grande importância para a pecuaria e a industria do leite, acarretando serios prejuizos economicos decorrentes da diminuicao da secrecao lactea ou da perda total desta capacidade. O trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana dos extratos etanolicos de propolis coletadas de regiao de Mata Atlântica da Bahia e Alagoas contra bacterias do genero estafilococos isoladas de mastite bovina. Conclui-se que houve diferenca na atividade inibitoria contra os microrganismos Staphylococcus aureus e Staphylococcus sp. analisados neste estudo, sendo o maior potencial encontrado na amostra de propolis do tipo-6 contra uma cepa de S. aureus (Sa-2) com cerca de 75% da atividade inibitoria do controle-positivo (gentamicina).

Made available in DSpace on 2015-03-18T15:56:33Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2014-01-01Bitstream added on 2015-03-18T16:28:14Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 WOS000340334200016.pdf: 326278 bytes, checksum: 41e2818ec0ba524ea2318c3c09275c42 (MD5) This study aimed to determine the antioxidant activity, total phenolic compounds and color in avocado 'Hass' hydrothermally treated. The fruits were hydrothermally treated at 45 degrees C for 5, 10, 15 and 20 min. After treatment, fruit were stored at room temperature (21 +/- 1 degrees C and 70 +/- 5% relative humidity) and cold (10 degrees C +/- 1 and 90 +/- 5% relative humidity). The fruits were analyzed for their antioxidant capacity by DPPH method and phenolic compounds at 0, 3, 9 and 12 days. The fruits color was measured at 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 days. The control fruits had higher antioxidant capacity and content of phenolic compounds during the storage period, compared to the fruits hydrothermally treated. The hydrothermally treatment altered the behavior as for the maintenance of the antioxidant activity in relation to the fruits control. In spite of superior values of antioxidant activity for the fruits maintained at 21 +/- 1 degrees C and 70 +/- 5% relative humidity, those refrigerated presented better aspect for commercialization. The refrigerated fruits presented better aspect for commercialization in relation to the maintained under room temperature. The brightness, color a * and b * values decreased with the storage days. Values color superiors were observed for the fruits control and those maintained under refrigeration. As it increased the irradiation dose reduced the fruits antioxidant activity and coloration. Univ Estadual Paulista Julio Mesquita Filho UNESP, Fac Ciencias Agr, Botucatu, SP, Brazil UNESP, Fac Ciencias Agr, Botucatu, SP, Brazil Univ Sao Paulo, Escola Super Agr Luiz Queiroz, BR-05508 Sao Paulo, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista Julio Mesquita Filho UNESP, Fac Ciencias Agr, Botucatu, SP, Brazil UNESP, Fac Ciencias Agr, Botucatu, SP, Brazil

The present study examined the influences of the neovestitol-vestitol (NV) containing fraction isolated from Brazilian red propolis on the development of biofilm and expression of virulence factors by Streptococcus mutans using saliva-coated surfaces of hydroxyapatite. In addition, NV was tested in a rodent model of dental caries to assess its potential effectiveness in vivo. Topical applications of NV (800 μg ml(-1)) significantly impaired the accumulation of biofilms of S. mutans by largely disrupting the synthesis of glucosyltransferase-derived exopolysaccharides and the expression of genes associated with the adaptive stress response, such as copYAZ and sloA. Of even greater impact, NV was as effective as fluoride (positive control) in reducing the development of carious lesions in vivo. NV is a promising natural anti-biofilm agent that targets essential virulence traits in S. mutans, which are associated with the formation of cariogenic biofilm and the subsequent onset of dental caries disease.

The objective of this study was to evaluate anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of neovestitol and vestitol isolated from Brazilian red propolis (BRP). BRP ethanolic extract (EEP), neovestitol, and vestitol were evaluated by anti-inflammatory properties using a neutrophil migration assay. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by minimal inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC) against Streptococcus mutans , Streptococcus sobrinus , Staphylococcus aureus , and Actinomyces naeslundii . Neovestitol, vestitol, and EEP inhibited neutrophil migration at a dose of 10 mg/kg. Regarding antimicrobial activity, neovestitol showed MICs ranging from6.25 to 25-50 μg/mL and MBCs ranging from 25-50 to 50-100 μg/mL, while vestitol showed MICs ranging from 25-50 to 50-100 μg/mL and MBCs ranging from 25-50 to 50-100 μg/mL. Both isoflavonoids neovestitol and vestitol are consistent bioactive compounds displaying anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities that can strongly act in a low dose and concentration and have a promising potential to be applied in the pharmaceutical and food industries.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the bioactive nonpolar fraction of geopropolis onStreptococcus mutansbiofilm. The ethanolic extract ofMelipona scutellarisgeopropolis was subjected to a liquid-liquid partition, thus obtaining the bioactive hexane fraction (HF) possessing antimicrobial activity. The effects of HF onS. mutansUA159 biofilms generated on saliva-coated hydroxyapatite discs were analyzed by inhibition of formation, killing assay, and glycolytic pH-drop assays. Furthermore, biofilms treated with vehicle control and HF were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). HF at 250 μg/mL and 400 μg/mL caused 38% and 53% reduction in the biomass of biofilm, respectively, when compared to vehicle control (P<0.05) subsequently observed at SEM images, and this reduction was noticed in the amounts of extracellular alkali-soluble glucans, intracellular iodophilic polysaccharides, and proteins. In addition, theS. mutansviability (killing assay) and acid production by glycolytic pH drop were not affected (P>0.05). In conclusion, the bioactive HF of geopropolis was promising to control theS. mutansbiofilm formation, without affecting the microbial population but interfering with its structure by reducing the biochemical content of biofilm matrix.

Brazilian red propolis was administered orally to Santa Ines ewes, and evaluation was made of general health and hematological, biochemical, and parasitic responses during and after flushing. Thirty mature, nonlactating, nonpregnant Santa Ines ewes (40 ± 2 kg and 2.5 years old) were grazing tropical pasture (Brachiaria decumbens and Pennisetum purpureum) and, as flushing after synchronization, were supplemented with a concentrate–roughage mixture at a rate of 4 % body weight (BW). Ewes were divided according to BW and fecal egg count (FEC) into two groups (n = 15 each): control and propolis that received propolis ethanolic extract at rates of, respectively, 0 and 3 g/ewe/day. The treatments lasted 21 days until the end of flushing period. BW and body condition score (BCS) were recorded, and blood and fecal samples were taken weekly for 8 weeks. Mean values of BW and BCS were not (P > 0.05) affected by propolis administration. Propolis increased (P