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The study aimed to investigate the potential protective effect of bromelain on renal histopathological changes induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in albino mice. CCl4 is widely used in the chemical industry but is also known to cause toxicity to various organs including the brain, liver, kidneys and lungs. In this study, 49 animals were divided into 7 equal groups. The kidneys of the mice were examined to assess histopathological changes and immunohistochemical markers, specifically caspase-9. The groups that received bromelain solution coated with gold nanoparticles demonstrated greater protective effects against CCl4-induced kidney damage. The findings suggest that kidney damage induced by CCl4 may be attributed to oxidative stress, which disrupts the antioxidant defense system, enzyme function and biochemical markers. However, administration of bromelain significantly mitigated CCl4 toxicity by enhancing the antioxidant defense system and reducing the production of free radicals. Notably, the study found that a dose of 300 mg of bromelain effectively reduced CCl4-induced toxicity in rats. This highlights the potential therapeutic value of bromelain in protecting against chemical-induced kidney damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This research investigates the potential anti-tumour effects of bromelain, an aqueous extract from pineapple stems and fruits, on nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC). While bromelain is known for its medicinal properties in various cancers, its impact on NPC remains unexplored. Results: Using in silico methods, we studied the predicted interactions between bromelain and key proteins involved in NPC oncogenesis, specifically β-catenin, PIK3CA, mTOR, EGFR, and BCL2. Molecular docking strategies were performed using a myriad of computational tools. A 3D model of bromelain was constructed using SWISS-MODEL, followed by molecular docking simulations performed with ClusPro. The binding affinities of the docked complexes were evaluated using HawkDock, and the interactions were analysed with LigPlot+. The docking scores indicated potential spontaneous interactions, with binding affinities based on being − 103.89 kcal/mol (PIK3CA), -73.16 kcal/mol (EGFR), -71.18 kcal/mol (mTOR), -65.22 kcal/mol (β-catenin), and − 57.48 kcal/mol (BCL2). LigPlot + analysis revealed the presence of hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and salt bridges, indicating stable predicted interactions. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that bromelain can target key proteins involved in NPC oncogenesis, with the strongest affinity towards PIK3CA. This suggests a hypothetical insight into bromelain's anticancer effects on NPC through the modulation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most prevalent form of human cancer, is traditionally treated by surgical and alternative destructive or topical chemical means, each with its advantages, challenges, and drawbacks. We describe our experience treating BCCs with a topical concentrate of proteolytic enzymes enriched in bromelain (CPEEB) sourced from pineapple stems. CPEEB has strong proteolytic, antitumor–proapoptotic, and inflammation modulation activities, and is approved for debridement of deep burns and starting phase 3 trials for chronic wounds. Methods: In the first proof-of-concept (POC) study, six BCCs on three individuals were treated with five to six daily CPEEB 10% topical applications under a zinc oxide-based occlusive dressing for 9–12 h each during a period of up to 10 days. These patients were followed for up to 4 years. In an additional two POC studies, 16 patients with one BCC each were treated every other day for a total of seven applications of topical CPEEB 5% under a variety of occlusive dressings. The wounds were followed for up to 2 months before undergoing diagnostic excisional biopsy. Results: In the first study, clinical assessment of the BCCs and two excisional biopsies after 6 months suggested that all lesions were eradicated with spontaneous healing within ~2 weeks without clinical or histological recurrence for over 4 years. In the two subsequent studies, 16 histologically diagnosed superficial and nodular BCCs were treated using four application techniques. Excisional histology after 2 months confirmed BCC eradication in seven of the patients. In nine patients, with compromised occlusive dressings, histological eradication was incomplete. Treatment was well tolerated by all patients with the expected local skin reactions, which completely healed within 2–3 weeks. Conclusions: These are POC preliminary studies aimed at indicating the potential efficacy and feasibility of topical CPEEB in eradicating BCC. In these studies, topical CPEEB 10% and 5% resulted in complete eradication of the BCC when appropriately applied. CPEEB was well tolerated in all patients, and all treated sites' erosions healed without scars in <3 weeks. Further research is necessary to corroborate the results, refine the application technique, and complete the regulatory process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We previously published the microbial profile of burn wounds managed with NexoBrid® in Pinderfields Regional Burns Centre, Wakefield, UK. Our results showed no significant changes in bacterial colonisation in burn wounds debrided with NexoBrid®. Previous studies described the antimicrobial properties of bromelain enzyme. To date, the effects of NexoBrid® on microorganisms have not been reported. In this study, a series of lab experiments were conducted to investigate the antimicrobial properties of NexoBrid®. Mueller-Hinton agar plates were pre-treated with NexoBrid® and inoculated with common pathogens after serial dilution. Our results revealed that the pre-treated plates showed reduction in the growth of E. faecalis and S. aureus. No zones of inhibition were observed around NexoBrid® after 18 h of incubation. Where a combination of controls and test solutions were added, no zones of inhibition were seen around the NexoBrid® wells in any of fifty tested organisms. The slightly lower infection rates observed in patients treated with NexoBrid® are more likely to be due to efficient selective debridement of necrotic skin rather than direct antimicrobial action. • NexoBrid® agent has no direct antimicrobial effect on microorganisms that commonly colonise in burn wounds. • Better healing and lower infection rates can be explained by selective debridement preserving viable dermis. • Temporary localised anaerobic conditions created by gel application might be another factor in limiting bacterial growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, enzymatic [papain (P), bromelain (B), and A. oryzae-derived fungal protease (FP); enzyme ratios: 0.012 (v/v), 38 °C, 50 min] and non-enzymatic [control (C; saline), mineral water (95%)–lemon juice (5%) (ML) (1/2:w/v), 38 °C, 50 min)] tenderizing methods on European squid mantle (Loligo vulgaris Lamarck, 1798) were investigated. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging, water holding capacity (WHC), cooking loss (CL), total free amino acids (TFAA), total soluble protein (TSP), hydroxyproline (Hyp), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were performed on uncooked samples. pH, water activity (aw), color, nutritional changes, amino acids (AA), total volatile basic-nitrogen (TVB-N), Warner-Bratzler shear (WBS), texture profile analysis (TPA), and sensory evaluations were performed on both uncooked and cooked samples. A significant decrease in protein content was observed in group P (12.86%) compared to untreated (U) squid (15.16%). During frying, group P absorbed more cooking oil (8.37%) than the other groups. A higher degree of hydrolysis was observed in the enzymatically tenderized groups than in non-enzymatic groups, and a shift in secondary protein structures in favor of random coils. Hydrolysis was confirmed by Hyp and AA analyses. The total AA content order was found as B < P < FP < C < ML < U. ML and FP groups have relatively higher total bitter and umami AA compositions, especially in uncooked samples. FP and ML groups had more favorable results across all analyses, especially in terms of the sensory results, nutritional values, and TPA results of cooked samples. It is concluded that both methods are very convenient regarding industrial usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wool is a kind of natural protein fiber with excellent characteristics such as fullness of hand and excellent warmth retention. Its products belong to high-grade textiles and are favored by consumers at home and abroad. However due to the unique scale layer structure on the surface of wool fibers products thereof are prone to felting during processing washing and use which seriously affects the wearability of the fabric. Therefore the problem of shrink-proofing has always been one of the key research issues in the field of wool spinning. At present most of the shrink-proof wool products on the market are obtained by chlorination. The chlorination method has low cost and good shrink-proof effect but the process of this method will produce adsorbable organic halide AOX which brings serious environmental pollution problems. Protease anti-shrinkage treatment is an ecological anti-shrinkage processing technology that has been mainly studied at present. It has the advantages of mild and safe reaction conditions and easy degradation of waste liquid. However most of the enzymatic shrink-proofing uses proteases from microorganisms and animals. These proteases enter the fiber through the gap of wool scales during the shrink-proof finishing process and hydrolyze the CMC layer and the cortex layer at the same time so that the internal cortex structure of the wool fiber is rapidly disintegrated resulting in a significant reduction in fiber strength. The bromelain is a thiol protease derived from plants and its effect on wool tends to be 'hydrolysis mode' . Its hydrolysis object is mainly keratin of wool scale layer which will not lead to 'rotten core' phenomenon. Therefore it has little damage to the mechanical properties of wool. To solve the problem of heavy pollution of chlorination method and great damage of wool fibers caused by animal protease the anti-felting finishing of wool fabrics was carried out by the combination of bromelain and pretreatment. The pretreatment used a self-made pretreatment agent A which is a sulfinate. It can decompose hyposulfite with strong reducibility in hot alkali solution to destroy the disulfide bond of the fiber so as to achieve the purpose of loosening the protein chain segment for subsequent bromelain treatment. In this study the optimum treatment temperature and time of pretreatment agent A were first investigated and then the effect of the mass fraction of pretreatment agent A on the antishrinkage effect of the fabric in the pretreatment-bromelain two-bath finishing was investigated. Finally scanning electron microscopy SEM surface energy spectrum EDS and other test methods were used to analyze the action mode of pretreatment agent A and bromelain on wool fibers and the performance changed before and after fabric treatment. The results show that bromelain can effectively improve the anti-felting performance of wool fabrics on the basis of pretreatment. The finished fabric has a felting rate of 5. 29% which meets the Woolmark Company's machine-washable standard felting rate < 6% and the strength loss rate is only 4. 10% . In addition it has good wettability and dyeing properties. A series of characterization test results prove that bromelain has a good degradation effect on wool scale layer but it only has a weak hydrolysis effect on the fiber interior so as to reduce the felting rate of wool fabrics and control the strength loss rate at a small level. In this study the self-made pretreatment agent A and bromelain were combined to treat wool fabrics in two baths. The pretreatment agent A and bromelain complemented each other and the anti-felting finishing with low strength loss rate was realized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Preparation of protein–polysaccharide complexes allows to modulate practically significant characteristics of both components, thereby increasing not only the practical potential of the resulting structures, but also contributing to our understanding of the features of their interactions. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the structural and functional features of the complexes of cysteine proteases (bromelain, papain and ficin) with a graft copolymer of chitosan with poly(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (CTS–DMAEMA), and also assess the effect of complexation processes on the protease activity and stability of the enzymes in question. Methods: The CTS–DMAEMA graft copolymer was obtained by solution radical polymerization in 2% acetic acid. Protein–polysaccharide complexes were received in glycine buffer. The protein content in the obtained complexes was determined by the modified Lowry method and proteolytic activity of enzymes as part of complexes was assessed using azocasein as a substrate. Molecular docking was used to identify the types of bonds and interactions within protein–polysaccharide complexes. Results and Discussion: Complexes of cysteine proteases (bromelain, papain, and ficin) with the graft copolymer of chitosan with poly(N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) were synthesized. It was found that the complexes have a lower protease activity than the native enzymes, because as a result of complex formation, the active site of cysteine proteases is shielded from the substrate, which complicates the catalysis process. The complexes are more stable compared to the native enzymes and retain up to 26% of protease activity after 21 days of incubation at 37°C in Tris-HCl buffer (pH 7.5). Conclusions: It was found that the proteolytic activity of the complexes is lower compared to their native forms of enzymes. The results of molecular docking showed that the modified chitosan is located in the catalytic pocket of cysteine proteases globules. The synthesized complexes have increased stability on storage under physiological conditions, which makes them promising candidates for the development of wound healing drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is a consequence of ischemic stroke caused by an imbalance between free radicals and the body's antioxidant defense system. This imbalance primarily affects the liver, which is highly susceptible to oxidative damage. This study investigated the effects of pineapple soup and bromelain on the hepatic antioxidant system in rats subjected to ischemic stroke induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Adult male Wistar rats were orally administered pineapple soup (500, 1,000, and 1,500 mg/kg/day) or bromelain (250 mg/kg/day) once daily for two weeks. Ischemic stroke was subsequently induced using the MCAO method. Induction of ischemic stroke increased hepatic levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and lipid peroxidation while decreasing the ratio of reduced glutathione to oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG = 0.40±0.09). Activities of hepatic CYP1A2, CYP2B1, and CYP3A4 were also significantly reduced in MCAO rats. Pineapple soup normalized CYP1A2 and CYP2B1 activities, while CYP3A4 activity was markedly higher than in the sham-control. Both pineapple soup and bromelain significantly reduced SOD, CAT, GPX, and lipid peroxidation levels while increasing the GSH/GSSG ratio (0.43±0.06 to 0.56±0.02) and normalizing CYP activities in the liver of rats with ischemic stroke. The effects of pineapple soup were dose-dependent. Therefore, pineapple soup and bromelain show potential for mitigating acute oxidative stress in the liver of rats with MCAO-induced ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are infections that involve the urethra, bladder, and, in much more severe cases, even kidneys. These infections represent one of the most common diseases worldwide. Various pathogens are responsible for this condition, the most common being Escherichia coli (E. coli). Bromelain is a proteolytic complex obtained from the stem and stalk of Ananas comosus (L.) Merr. showing several beneficial activities. In addition to bromelain, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has also been used. Methods: The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the antibacterial, anti-motility, and anti-biofilm effects of a new polyenzymatic complex (DIF17BRO®) in combination with NAC (the Formulation) on various strains of E. coli isolated from patients with UTIs. Subsequently, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of the Formulation were studied in an ex vivo model of cystitis, using bladder samples from mice exposed to E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Results: Our results showed that the Formulation significantly affects the capability of bacteria to form biofilm and reduces the bacteria amount in the mature biofilm. Moreover, it combines the interesting properties of NAC and a polyenzyme plant complex based on bromelain in a right dose to affect the E. coli adhesion capability. Finally, the Formulation exhibited protective effects, as confirmed by the inhibitory activities on multiple inflammatory and oxidative stress-related pathways on bladder specimens exposed to LPS. Conclusions: This blend of active compounds could represent a promising and versatile approach to use to overcome the limitations associated with conventional therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemp seed oil cake, a by-product of hemp seed oil extraction, is characterized by its high protein content and bioactive components, making it a valuable resource for the development of functional products through enzymatic hydrolysis. Hemp seed oil itself is renowned for its rich content of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to its widespread use in health and wellness products. Consequently, the residual cake presents significant potential for the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries as a source of high-quality protein ingredients. The optimization of enzymatic hydrolysis conditions is crucial for maximizing the efficiency and quality of the resulting protein hydrolysates. This study aims to optimize the hydrolysis process of hemp seed oil cake with bromelain, focusing on three key factors: enzyme concentration (E/S ratio), temperature, and time, to achieve hydrolysates with superior antioxidant activity. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was applied using a Box–Behnken design to model and optimize the hydrolysis conditions. The experimental design involved three levels for each factor: 1%, 2%, and 3% for bromelain concentration; 20 °C, 30 °C, and 40 °C for temperature; and 60, 120, and 180 min for hydrolysis duration, resulting in 21 experimental runs. The antioxidant activity was assessed via DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays (%RSA), and the derived regression models were statistically analyzed and validated. The findings indicate that the optimal conditions for obtaining protein hydrolysates with the highest antioxidant activity are a bromelain concentration of 3.0%, a temperature of 40 °C, and a hydrolysis time of 60 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study aims to evaluate the compressive strength, solubility, radiopacity, and flow of Bromelain (BR)-modified Biodentine (BD) for direct pulp capping (DPC). This is suggested to determine the impact of BR on the physical properties of BD. Methods Eighty samples were prepared according to the ISO and ADA specifications and evaluated for compressive strength, solubility, radiopacity, and flow. The compressive strength was evaluated at 24 h and 21 days via a universal testing machine. The solubility was determined by weight loss after 24-hours immersion in deionized water. Radiopacity was assessed via X-ray with aluminum step-wedges, and flow was measured by the diameter of the discs under a standard weight. Independent sample t-tests were used to statistically assess the data. A significance level of 5% was considered. Results The compressive strength was 41.08 ± 1.84 MPa for BD and 40.92 ± 1.80 MPa for BR + BD after 24 h, and 88.93 ± 3.39 MPa for BD and 87.92 ± 3.76 MPa for BR + BD after 21 days, with no significant differences. Solubility was slightly greater in the BR + BD (2.75 ± 0.10%) compared to BD (2.62 ± 0.25%), but not significantly different. The radiopacity was similar between BD (2.82 ± 0.11 mm) and BR + BD (2.73 ± 0.10 mm). BR + BD resulted in significantly greater flow (9.99 ± 0.18 mm) than did BD (9.65 ± 0.27 mm) (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion BR-modified BD maintains BD’s physical properties, with improved flow, making it a promising DPC agent that warrants further study.

Background: This study aims to evaluate the compressive strength, solubility, radiopacity, and flow of Bromelain (BR)-modified Biodentine (BD) for direct pulp capping (DPC). This is suggested to determine the impact of BR on the physical properties of BD. Methods: Eighty samples were prepared according to the ISO and ADA specifications and evaluated for compressive strength, solubility, radiopacity, and flow. The compressive strength was evaluated at 24 h and 21 days via a universal testing machine. The solubility was determined by weight loss after 24-hours immersion in deionized water. Radiopacity was assessed via X-ray with aluminum step-wedges, and flow was measured by the diameter of the discs under a standard weight. Independent sample t-tests were used to statistically assess the data. A significance level of 5% was considered. Results: The compressive strength was 41.08 ± 1.84 MPa for BD and 40.92 ± 1.80 MPa for BR + BD after 24 h, and 88.93 ± 3.39 MPa for BD and 87.92 ± 3.76 MPa for BR + BD after 21 days, with no significant differences. Solubility was slightly greater in the BR + BD (2.75 ± 0.10%) compared to BD (2.62 ± 0.25%), but not significantly different. The radiopacity was similar between BD (2.82 ± 0.11 mm) and BR + BD (2.73 ± 0.10 mm). BR + BD resulted in significantly greater flow (9.99 ± 0.18 mm) than did BD (9.65 ± 0.27 mm) (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: BR-modified BD maintains BD's physical properties, with improved flow, making it a promising DPC agent that warrants further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucus plugging of the respiratory tract occurs in airway diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cystic fibrosis. It can cause blockage of the airways, leading to breathlessness and lung failure. Here, we used a ventilatory setup to demonstrate the effect of BromAc® in dissolving mucus plugs in a novel ex vivo ovine obstructive lung model. Mucus simulant was filled into the trachea of freshly slaughtered ovine lungs and ventilated via an endotracheal tube (ETT) using Continuous Mandatory Ventilation. Predetermined single or repeated doses of Bromelain, Acetylcysteine (Ac), BromAc®, and saline control were administered via an Aerogen® vibrating nebulizer and ventilated for 30 or 60 min. Ventilatory recording of resistance, compliance, and tidal volume was conducted, and rheology pre- and post-treatment were measured. A significant decline in airway resistance (p < 0.0001) compared to the saline control was observed when treated with Bromelain, Ac, and BromAc®, with the latter showing a stronger mucolytic effect than single agents. The decline in resistance was also effective in shorter time points (p < 0.05) at lower doses of the drugs. Changes in compliance, peak pressure, and tidal volume were not observed after administration of the drugs. Rheology measurements revealed that BromAc®TM significantly reduced the viscosity of the mucin at the end of 30 min and 60 min time points (p < 0.001) compared to the saline control. BromAc® showed complete dissolution of the respiratory mucus simulant and improved ventilatory airflow parameters in the ex vivo ovine model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thrombosis is a key process that determines acute coronary syndrome and ischemic stroke and is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the world, together with cancer. Platelet adhesion and subsequent activation and aggregation are critical processes that cause thrombus formation after endothelial damage. To date, high hopes are associated with compounds of natural origin, which show anticoagulant action without undesirable effects and can be proposed as supportive therapies. We investigated the effect of the new combination of four natural compounds, escin–bromelain–ginkgo biloba–sage miltiorrhiza (EBGS), on the initial process of the coagulation cascade, which is the adhesion of platelets to activated vascular endothelium. Our results demonstrated that EBGS pretreatment of endothelial cells reduces platelet adhesion even in the presence of the monocyte–lymphocyte population. Our data indicate that EBGS exerts its effects by inhibiting the transcription of adhesion molecules, including P-selectin, platelet membrane glycoprotein GP1b, integrins αV and β3, and reducing the secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin 6, interleukin 8, and the metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9. Furthermore, we demonstrated that EBGS inhibited the expression of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), strictly involved in platelet adhesion, and whose activity is correlated with that of integrin β3. The results shown in this manuscript suggest a possible inhibitory role of the new combination EBGS in the reduction in platelet adhesion to activated endothelium, thus possibly preventing coagulation cascade initiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent years, minimally invasive treatment options for lumbar disc herniation, such as percutaneous laser disc decompression (PLDD), have been introduced to avoid more invasive surgical methods. Combining these minimally invasive approaches with nutraceuticals that are effective in neuroprotection and pain management may lead to better long-term outcomes. Methods: The present study evaluated the beneficial effects of a new oral food supplement composed of acetyl-L-carnitine, α-lipoic acid, quercetin, bromelain, pantothenic acid, and vitamins C, B1, B2, B6, and B12 in patients with neuropathic pain due to herniated lumbar discs treated with PLDD. Patients were divided into two groups of 26 patients each: group A underwent PLDD alone, while group B underwent PLDD followed by a dietary supplement for two months after surgery. Preoperative VAS scores for leg pain were recorded for both groups and no significant difference was observed (8.7 for Group A and 8.6 for Group B). Results: In Group A, the mean postoperative VAS score for leg pain at a 1-month follow-up was 2.5, which remained stable at 3 months. In Group B, the mean postoperative VAS score was 2.0 at 1-month and improved to 1.6 at the 3-month follow-up. According to self-reported leg pain assessments, 66.5% of the patients using the dietary supplement reported a significantly better pain condition, and 43.5% reported a somewhat better situation. In contrast, 7.7% of the patients who underwent PLDD alone reported no changes in leg pain at the final follow-up. Conclusions: The results of our study indicate that the oral food supplement could provide a safe and effective treatment in patients with painful radiculopathy, enhancing the recovery of sensory fiber function in lumbar nerve roots after surgical lumbar disc decompression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of burned patients involves early excision of the burn. The approach to this excision has changed since bromelain-based enzymatic debridement was introduced. This treatment option reduces complications from the surgical procedure and improves scar quality. It is indicated for partial and full thickness burns. It is important to agree on the nursing care before, during and after enzymatic debridement treatment to ensure an optimal preparation and maintenance of the wound bed for later treatment to be most successful. A multi-centre Delphi study was conducted with enzymatic debridement nursing care on burned patient experts. A coordinating group developed a 29-item questionnaire based on clinical guidelines and experience. Two question rounds were asked, reaching consensus on answers > 70%. Nine panellists from nine leading burns centres in Spain participated. The aim was to develop a national consensus on enzymatic debridement treatment based on clinical practice and evidence from almost 1500 cases. The experts reached 29 agreements on different aspects of treatment and patient condition: general considerations about the treatment, burned patient admission, treatment prior to enzymatic debridement, applying debridement, removing enzymatic debridement and the post-enzymatic debridement phase. The expert consensus on nursing care of the burn patient and application of bromelain-based enzymatic debridement includes general recommendations for the patient before, during and after application and the planning of localised care after debridement. This consensus document supports knowledge on enzymatic debridement technique, increasing safety in clinical nursing practice and ensuring successful treatment for the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Fried foods are favored for their unique crispiness, golden color and flavor, but they also face great challenge because of their high oil content, high calories and the existence of compounds such as acrylamide and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Long‐term consumption of fried foods may adversely affect health. Therefore, it is necessary to explore fried foods with lower oil contents and a high quality to meet the demand. RESULTS: A method of enzyme treatment was explored to investigate the effects of maltogenic amylase (MA), transglutaminase (TG) and bromelain (BRO) on the physicochemical properties of the batter and the quality of fried spring roll wrapper (FSRW). The results showed that the MA‐, TG‐ or BRO‐treated batters had a significant shear‐thinning behavior, especially with an increase in viscosity upon increasing TG contents. FSRW enhanced its fracturability from 419.19 g (Control) to 616.50 g (MA‐6 U g−1), 623.49 g (TG‐0.75 U g−1) and 644.96 g (BRO‐10 U g−1). Meanwhile, in comparison with BRO and MA, TG‐0.5 U g−1 endowed batter with the highest density and thermal stability. MA‐15 U g−1 and TG‐0.5 U g−1 displayed FSRW with uniform and dense pores, and significantly reduced its oil content by 18.05% and 25.02%, respectively. Moreover, compared to MA and TG, BRO‐50 U g−1 improved the flavor of FSRW. CONCLUSION: MA, TG or BRO played a key role in affecting the physicochemical properties of the batter and the quality of FSRW. TG‐0.5 U g−1 remarkly reduced the oil content of FSRW with a great potential in practical application. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the demand for better chronic wound care, the clinical problem of managing wound infections has already reached a critical level. Therefore, the development of novel antibiotic-free wound dressings is essential for wound care. The proteolytic enzyme bromelain, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and bromelain loaded on silver nanoparticles (Br-AgNPs) were assessed for their impact on wound healing in the albino mice. The formulated nanoparticles were characterized using different techniques, i.e., ultraviolet (UV), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The antibacterial and fungal activities of the formulated nanoparticles were also investigated. After 5 days of treatment, the wound healing progression and wound size reduction rate were monitored. In addition, serum and skin tissue samples were collected to assess the changes in inflammation levels and observe the histological changes. The results indicated a spherical shape and regular distribution of the synthesized gold nanoparticles, with an average particle size of 41.33–61.30 nm, where the size was about 39.84 and 82.91 nm after loading bromelain. The Br-AgNPs were the most active antimicrobial agents against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Candida albicans, as compared to the other samples and positive controls. The fibronectin and collagen III levels were significantly increased in the animal groups treated with bromelain and Br-AgNPs (7132.52 ± 324.67 and 7006.00 ± 565.19 pg/ml, respectively), compared to the negative control group. Moreover, wound closure was significantly enhanced in the Br-AgNP-treated animals compared to the other treated and control groups. The histopathological analysis supported the wound healing potential of the Br-AgNPs through their ability to induce dense fibrous connective tissue in the wound area, which was rich in irregular bundles of collagen fibers and interspersed with numerous fibroblasts. The present findings could provide valuable insight into how Br-AgNPs can accelerate wound healing, reduce recovery time, and provide an antimicrobial barrier for wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of bromelain, a plant enzyme, on the physicochemical and sensory properties of horse meat, as well as the effects of different bacterial cultures (Lactococcus lactis, Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis biovar diacetylactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium longum) on the inhibition of lipid oxidation and control of pH during chilled storage. Horse meat (longissimus dorsi) samples (n = 14) were treated with bromelain in two forms (powder and aqueous solution) and with three methods: immersion in enzyme solution, spreading enzyme powder on meat, and syringing enzyme solution into the meat. After fermentation, a part of the meat samples (n = 6) was treated with different bacteria compositions at a 5% weight ratio and stored at 0–2 °C for 6 days. Injecting 3–5% bromelain solutions was most effective at tenderizing the meat, reducing shear force by up to 56% after 8 h. This injection also maximized the water-holding capacity (78–81%) and minimized cooking losses (21–26%), compared to 38% for the control meat sample without treatment. Syringing with 3% bromelain yielded the highest sensory scores across the tenderness, flavor, and overall palatability parameters. The combination of L. acidophilus, Lc. lactis, and B. longum at a ratio of 1.5:1.5:2 was highly effective in reducing oxidative spoilage and optimizing pH levels, thereby ensuring extended meat storability. This study demonstrates that bromelain treatment is an effective method for improving the tenderness, WHC, and sensory properties of horse meat. The LAB combination showed efficient acid formation, crucial for enhancing meat preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Appendiceal cancer (AC) excessive mucin production is a barrier to heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) drug delivery. Bromelain is a pineapple stem extract with mucolytic properties. We explored bromelain treatment effects against mucinous AC in a patient-derived tumor organoid (PTO) model and an AC cell line. Patients and Methods: PTOs were fabricated from tumor specimens obtained from patients with AC undergoing cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC. PTOs underwent HIPEC treatment with bromelain, cisplatin, and mitomycin C (MMC) at 37 °C and 42 °C with and without bromelain pretreatment. Results: From October 2020 to May 2023, 16 specimens were collected from 13 patients with low-grade (12/16, 75%) and high-grade AC (4/16, 25%). The mucin-depleting effects of bromelain were most significant in combination with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) compared with bromelain (47% versus 10%, p = 0.0009) or NAC alone (47% versus 12.8%, p = 0.0027). Bromelain demonstrated > 31% organoid viability reduction at 60 min (p < 0.001) and > 66% in 48 h (p < 0.0001). Pretreatment with bromelain increased cytotoxicity of both cisplatin and MMC HIPEC conditions by 31.6% (p = 0.0001) and 35.5% (p = 0.0001), respectively. Ki67, CK20, and MUC2 expression decreased after bromelain treatment; while increased caspase 3/7 activity and decreased Bcl-2 (p = 0.009) and Bcl-xL (p = 0.01) suggest induction of apoptosis pathways. Furthermore, autophagy proteins LC3A/B I (p < 0.03) and II (p < 0.031) were increased; while ATG7 (p < 0.01), ATG 12 (p < 0.04), and Becline 1(p < 0.03), expression decreased in bromelain-treated PTOs. Conclusions: Bromelain demonstrates cytotoxicity and mucolytic activity against appendiceal cancer organoids. As a pretreatment agent, it potentiates the cytotoxicity of multiple HIPEC regimens, potentially mediated through programmed cell death and autophagy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various biophysical techniques have been extensively employed to study protein aggregation due to its significance. Traditionally, these methods detect aggregation at micrometer length scales and micromolar concentrations. However, unlike in vitro, protein aggregation typically occurs at nanomolar concentrations in vivo. Here, using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS), we captured bromelain aggregation at concentrations as low as ~20 nM, surpassing the detection limit of traditional methods like thioflavin T fluorescence, scattering, and fluorescence microscopy by more than one order of magnitude. Moreover, using thioflavin T fluorescence‐based FCS, we have detected larger aggregates at higher bromelain concentrations, which is undetectable in FCS otherwise. Importantly, our study reveals inherent heterogeneity in bromelain aggregation, inaccessible to ensemble‐averaged techniques. The presented report may provide a platform for the characterization of premature aggregates at very low protein concentrations, which are thought to be functionally significant species in protein aggregation‐induced diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Bromelain is a mixture of proteolytic enzymes primarily extracted from the fruit and stem of the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus). It has a long history of traditional medicinal use in various cultures, particularly in Central and South America, where pineapple is native. This systematic review will delve into the history, structure, chemical properties, and medical indications of bromelain. Bromelain was first isolated and described in the late 19th century by researchers in Europe, who identified its proteolytic properties. Since then, bromelain has gained recognition in both traditional and modern medicine for its potential therapeutic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to assess the efficacy of different proteolytic agents on the bond strength of pit and fissure sealants to bovine enamel. Eighty-four bovine enamel specimens were randomly assigned in groups according to the pit and fissure sealant applied (HelioSeal F or Dyad Flow). Then, the specimens were subdivided according to the proteolytic agent used (n = 7): Group 1, distilled water (control); Group 2, 10 wt.% Tergazyme®; Group 3, 10 wt.% ZYME®; Group 4, 10% papain gel; Group 5, 10% bromelain gel; and Group 6, 5.25 wt.% sodium hypochlorite. The cell viability of the proteolytic solutions was assessed through the MTT assay. The proteolytic agents were applied on the enamel surface prior to the acid-etching procedure; then, the pit and fissure sealants were placed. The micro-shear bond strength was evaluated after 24 h or 6 months of water storing at 37 °C. Representative SEM images were taken for each experimental group. The bond strength data were statistically analyzed by a three-way ANOVA test using a significance level of α = 0.05. Bromelain and papain proteolytic solutions did not exert any cytotoxic effect on the human dental pulp cells. After 24 h and 6 months of aging, for both pit and fissure sealants, sodium hypochlorite, papain, bromelain, and Tergazyme® achieved statistically significant higher bond strength values (p < 0.05). Irrespective of the deproteinizing agent used, Dyad Flow resulted in a better bond strength after 6 months of aging. The type 1 etching pattern was identified for sodium hypochlorite, papain, and bromelain. Tergazyme®, papain, and bromelain demonstrated efficacy in deproteinizing enamel surfaces prior to acid etching, leading to the improved bond strength of pit and fissure sealants. Clinically, this suggests that these proteolytic agents can be considered viable alternatives to traditional methods for enhancing sealant retention and longevity. Utilizing these agents in dental practice could potentially reduce sealant failures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrophobicity of polyamide (PA) hinders the comfort and processing of fabrics. The enzyme-catalyzed surface modification has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional chemical methods for hydrophilic modification of PA due to the continuously increasing concern on environmental sustainability. However, the hydrolysis effect is weak. An effective method was developed to circumvent this limitation resulting in polyamide with good hydrophilicity and dyeing properties. The modification route included the swelling pretreatment based on ethanol, bromelain-catalyzed hydrolysis and laccase-catalyzed grafting. The swelling pretreatment greatly improved the accessibility of bromelain to PA. Thus, the hydrolysis effect was enhanced by 0.63% in a short time. Then, the Laccase/TEMPO system oxidized trehalose to complete the grafting on the surface of the PA fabric. The static water contact angle and dye uptake of EA@BM@LAC modified PA fabric increased by 59.8% and 17.4%, respectively. This work proposed a green and multi-enzyme system to achieve surface hydrophilic modification of PA and promoted the comprehensive utilization of enzymes in the textile field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exposed, infected and necrotic tendons often occur in the middle and late stages of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). The exposed tendon is both a potential source and route of infection, which prolongs the treatment period and affects recovery, leading to amputation and even death. Therefore, management of the exposed tendon in patients with DFU is the key to treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Shengji ointment combined with bromelain in the treatment of DFU with tendon exposure and to provide clinical treatment options and evidence-based medicine. Methods: This study was a multicenter, nonblinded, randomized, positive controlled clinical trial involving 180 patients with DFU with tendon exposure at four tertiary-grade A-class hospitals. The included patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to an observation group (n = 90) that received Shengji ointment combined with bromelain and a control group (n = 90) that received hydrocolloid dressing, with dressing changes once daily for 4 weeks. Patients in both groups continued with conventional treatments, such as blood glucose and blood pressure medication, lipid regulation, and antiplatelets. The primary outcome measure was wound coverage with granulation tissue. The secondary outcome measures included the wound healing rate, time to granulation, Maryland foot score, time to debridement of necrotic tendon tissue, and granulation tissue score. We performed measurements before enrollment and after the end of treatment for comparison. Results: There was no significant difference in the baseline data between the two groups before treatment (P > 0.05). After treatment, the primary outcome indicators of the two groups were compared, and the wound granulation tissue coverage rate of the treatment group was greater than that of the control group (P = 0.003). For the secondary outcome outcomes, the wound healing rate, time to granulation, Maryland foot function score, time to debridement of necrotic tendon tissue, and granulation tissue score in the treatment group were significantly better than those in the control group (P

Osteoarthritis (OA) stands as a prevalent and progressively debilitating clinical condition globally, impacting joint structures and leading to their gradual deterioration through inflammatory mechanisms. While both non-modifiable and modifiable factors contribute to its onset, numerous aspects of OA pathophysiology remain elusive despite considerable research strides. Presently, diagnosis heavily relies on clinician expertise and meticulous differential diagnosis to exclude other joint-affecting conditions. Therapeutic approaches for OA predominantly focus on patient education for self-management alongside tailored exercise regimens, often complemented by various pharmacological interventions primarily targeting pain alleviation. However, pharmacological treatments typically exhibit short-term efficacy and local and/or systemic side effects, with prosthetic surgery being the ultimate resolution in severe cases. Thus, exploring the potential integration or substitution of conventional drug therapies with natural compounds and extracts emerges as a promising frontier in enhancing OA management. These alternatives offer improved safety profiles and possess the potential to target specific dysregulated pathways implicated in OA pathogenesis, thereby presenting a holistic approach to address the condition’s complexities.

Breast cancer is the most common tumor in women. Chemotherapy is the gold standard for cancer treatment; however, severe side effects and tumor resistance are the major obstacles to chemotherapy success. Numerous dietary components and phytochemicals have been found to inhibit the molecular and signaling pathways associated with different stages of breast cancer development. In particular, this review is focused on the antitumor effects of PUFAs, dietary enzymes, and glucosinolates against breast cancer. The major databases were consulted to search in vitro and preclinical studies; only those with solid scientific evidence and reporting protective effects on breast cancer treatment were included. A consistent number of studies highlighted that dietary components and phytochemicals can have remarkable therapeutic effects as single agents or in combination with other anticancer agents, administered at different concentrations and via different routes of administration. These provide a natural strategy for chemoprevention, reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence, impair cell proliferation and viability, and induce apoptosis. Some of these bioactive compounds of dietary origin, however, show poor solubility and low bioavailability; hence, encapsulation in nanoformulations are promising tools able to increase clinical efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gingivitis is an inflammation that involves the soft tissue around the teeth. Neutrophils are the first cells to migrate from the blood vessels during inflammation and act as a defense against the body to phagocytize incoming microorganisms. The treatment of potential natural materials, such as pineapple fruit, is very likely to be developed to reduce the severity of tissue damage. Bromelain found in pineapple, especially pineapple weevil, can act as an anti-inflammatory agent by inhibiting inflammatory mediators. This study aimed to determine the number of neutrophils in the gingiva of rats with induced inflammation after administration of bromelain enzyme extract to pineapple weevils. Materials and methods: This research was a true experiment with post-test and control group design. The samples used in this study were 27 samples of gingival tissue from the mandibular incisor teeth of male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) which were divided into four treatments comprised of negative and positive controlled treated with bromelain 20 %, 40%, and 60%. Samples were induced using ligature wire, following the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inflammation in rats is characterized by redness and swelling of the gums where the ligature wire is applied. Results: Based on the Kruskal-Wallis test, there was a significant difference in the number of neutrophils (p <0.05) between the treatment groups. A significant decrease was also observed in the treatment group with a 60% concentration on day 7 using the Mann-Whitney test. Conclusion: Bromelain enzyme extract in pineapple weevils reduced the number of neutrophils in the gingiva of rats that experienced inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) represents a risk factor for cardiovascular events. The first-line treatment includes the use of compression stockings and lifestyle changes. Natural products, such as flavonoids, could be used to improve the effects of compression therapy due to their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a dietary supplement containing baicalin, bromeline and escin in CVI patients. A retrospective cohort study was performed by using the medical records of CVI affected outpatients. Patients treated with the dietary supplement were defined as "users". A modified Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) was calculated, including pain, inflammation, vessels induration and skin pigmentation. All clinical variables were evaluated at baseline (T0), after 30 (T1) and 90(T2) days in "users" and "non-users". Out of 62 patients, 30 (48.4%) were "users". No difference was observed between groups at baseline. A lower VCSS value was recorded in "users" than that observed in "non-users" at T2 (7.0 (4.0–9.0) vs. 9.0 (5.0–10.0); p = 0.025). Vessels' induration and pain significantly reduced in 53.3% and 43.3% of "users" and in 18.8% and 9.4% of "non-users". Only "users" (33.3%) showed a reduction of the inflammatory signs as well as a decrease in malleolar circumference, from 29.0 (26.5–30.0) to 27.5 (26.0–28.5) (p < 000.1). A reduction of C-reactive Protein levels was found in "users" compared to "non-users" at T2 (1.0 (0.9–1.2) vs. 1.3 (1.0–1.5); p = 0.006). These findings suggest that implementation of a dietary supplement could improve the clinical outcomes of CVI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The industrial processing of pineapples generates a substantial quantity of by-products, including shell, crown, and core. Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme found naturally in pineapple, including its by-products, may positively influence the bioaccessibility of phenolics from milk coffee. Therefore, this study aimed to assess how the inclusion of extracts from pineapple by-products, namely shell, crown and core, could impact the bioaccessibility of coffee phenolics when combined with milk. After measuring the proteolytic activity of pineapple by-products, the standardized in vitro digestion model of INFOGEST was employed to evaluate changes in total phenolic content, total antioxidant capacity, and individual phenolic compounds in different coffee formulations. The results showed that incorporating extracts from the crown or core in both black and milk coffee increased the bioaccessibility of total phenolics (from 93 to 114% to 105–129%) and antioxidants (from 54 to 56% to 84–87%), while this effect was not observed for the shell. Moreover, adding core extracts also enhanced the bioaccessibility of caffeoylquinic acids and gallic acid in milk coffee (from 0.72 to 0.85% and 109–155%, respectively). Overall, the findings of this study highlight that bromelain from pineapple core may have a favorable effect on the recovery of phenolic compounds in milk coffee, possibly due to its ability to cleave proteins. These outcomes point out that industrial by-products can be transformed into economic value by being reintroduced into the production process through suitable treatment instead of disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bromelain has been shown to have potential as an anthelmintic for controlling livestock nematodes, such as Haemonchus (H.) contortus. The present study aimed to evaluate the in vitro quality of the laboratory-produced nanoencapsulated bromelain (NEB) and its activity against H. contortus. The acid-base extraction method was employed to extract four different batches of bromelain from the peels of fully ripened pineapples. It was encapsulated in chitosan to form the nano-encapsulated bromelain complex. Standard biochemical methods were employed to determine the bromelain concentration, protein concentration, in vitro anthelmintic activity against various stages of H. contortus (egg, larva, adult), and bacteria contamination for the four NEB batches. The mean concentration of extracted bromelain was 4.3 mg/ml in all four batches. There were no variations in the protein concentrations between the batches of NEB, which ranged from 1,090 mg/ml to 1.205 mg/ml. Although there were no significant differences in different batches, a variation in NEB inhibitory concentration (IC50) was observed according to the different parasitic stages. The highest activity was for adult worms (LC50 =0.2454 ± 0.05 mg/ml), followed by the eggs (IC50 = 0.3 ± 0.07 mg/ml), and the larval stage (IC50 =0.9 ± 0.45 mg/ml). Despite the identification of certain bacterial species in the raw pineapple extract, the final product of all four batches of NEB remained free from any bacterial contamination. The current study indicated that NEB's concentration, protein concentrations, and anthelmintic activity did not vary significantly across the different batches of NEB. Additionally, the encapsulation process ensured that the final product was free of bacterial contamination and thus safe for use in animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study evaluated the effect of bromelain and propolis extract on the bond strength (BS) of a universal adhesive system to eroded dentin. Materials and Method s : Sixty human molars with exposed dentin were halved, with one half protected by composite resin and the other subjected to erosive treatment followed by remineralization. After the erosive treatment, the composite resin was removed, and the teeth were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 20): Adhesive‐Control System; Br‐10%; Pr‐16%. Following the treatments, composite resin blocks were built on the dentin surfaces and sticks of 0.9 mm2 were obtained and stored in distilled water at 37°C for 24 h and 6 months. After these periods, the sticks underwent bond strength testing and the data were analyzed using 2‐way ANOVA, Bonferroni test, p < 0.05. Fracture patterns were observed using light microscope and scanning electron microscopy. Results: Irrespective of the substrate and aging duration, propolis demonstrated higher BS (p < 0.05) compared to the other treatments. Eroded dentin exhibited greater removal of the smear layer and dentinal tubules with a larger diameter than sound dentin, especially when treated with bromelain, resulting in the formation of resin tags. Conclusions: Propolis consistently promoted the highest bond strength, irrespective of aging or substrate. Eroded dentin treated with propolis, or bromelain exhibited a higher prevalence of non‐adhesive fractures and resin tag formation. Clinical Significance: Propolis shows promise for enhancing the longevity of adhesive restorations in eroded dentin due to its ability to promote high bond strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In order to improve the tenderness of dried shrimp products as well as to reduce the hardness of the meat during the drying process, shrimp were treated with ultrasound combined with pineapple protease and the tenderization condition was optimized by measuring the texture and shear force of dried shrimp. In addition, the sulfhydryl content, myofibril fragmentation index (MFI) and microstructure were also examined to clarify the mechanisms of shrimp tenderization. RESULTS: The results showed UB1 group with ultrasonic power of 100 W, heating temperature of 50 °C and pineapple protease concentration of 20 U mL−1 were the optimum tenderization conditions, where shrimp showed the lowest hardness (490.76 g) and shear force (2006.35 gf). Microstructure as well as sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis results suggested that during the tenderization process the muscle segments of shrimps were broken, degradation of myofibrillar proteins occurred, and MFI values and total sulfhydryl content increased significantly (P < 0.05) (MFI value = 193.6 and total sulfhydryl content = 93.93 mmol mg−1 protein for UB 1 group). CONCLUSION: Ultrasound combined with bromelain could be used as a simple and effective tenderization method for the production of tender dried shrimp. The best conditions were 100 W ultrasonic power, 50 °C ultrasonic temperature, and 20 U mL−1 bromelain. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on evaluating the efficacy of bromelain and curcumin in treating acne scars through a randomized clinical trial. It reports that the bromelain-curcumin combination effectively reduced inflammation and erythema associated with acne vulgaris after four weeks, it suggests the potential as a supportive treatment for post-acne scarring.

Herbal medicine, also known as phytomedicine, utilizes various plant parts like leaves, fruits, roots, bark, or flowers for their health benefits, standing as an alternative healthcare approach to conventional medicine. Traditional herbal remedies, integral to medical systems worldwide, notably in China and India, are gaining global recognition for their efficacy and fewer side effects. Approximately 80% of the world's population relies on traditional herbal medicine for primary healthcare, as per the World Health Organization. Ananas comosus (L.) Merril, commonly known as pineapple, belongs to the Bromeliaceae family, encompassing about 50 genera and 200 species. Pineapple, a perennial herbaceous plant, exhibits unique physical attributes, with its main parts including the stem, leaves, peduncle, multiple fruit, crown, shoots, and roots. Pineapple contains various amino acids, including tyrosine and tryptophan, along with bromelain, an enzyme aiding digestion by breaking down proteins. This review outlines previous research on the phytochemical and pharmacological characteristics of Ananas comosus, highlighting its diverse medicinal properties. From antimicrobial and anticancer activities to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects, pineapple demonstrates significant therapeutic potential across multiple health domains. Additionally, its nutritional value and traditional uses further underscore its importance as a versatile herbal remedy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a wound‐healing membrane was fabricated based on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) containing curcumin (Cur) and bromelain (Br). Citric acid (CA) was used as a cross‐linking agent. This membrane showed an ideal degree of swelling, which was significantly dependent on the concentration and duration of cross‐linked CA. The chemical characterization showed the CA cross‐linker mechanism was more associated with chemical reactions with CMC carboxyl groups, and PEG hydroxyl groups played an important role in forming a hybrid polymer network. It greatly enhanced mechanical and adhesive properties, so the stress strength was improved from 29.4 to 38.52 Mpa. The hydrophilicity of the membrane surface according to the water contact angle assay showed the membrane surface is suitable for adhesion, growth, migration, and proliferation of skin cells. The drug delivery assay demonstrated that the Br and Cur were released during 48 h, but the Br followed the burst release in comparison with Cur. Antibacterial properties showed that CMC/PEG‐Cur/Br have ideal antibacterial properties for preventing the growth of bacteria. In summary, the engineered CMC/PEG containing Cur/Br films with desired cell viability properties and antibacterial activity can potentially improve and accelerate skin regeneration for chronic wound healing. Highlights: Hydrogel film was prepared based on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and citric acid as cross‐linking agent.CMC/PEG film were induced controlling curcumin (Cur) and bromelain (Br) release for wound healing process.CMC/PEG film revealed a wide range of physiochemical, mechanical, adhesion, and biological properties behavior.Incorporation of Cur and Br promoted in vitro biocompatibility, L‐929 cells attachments, and cell migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The community of microorganisms and their genes in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, collectively known as the gut microbiome, play multiple roles in canine health. Disruption, due to the lack of beneficial organisms or the overgrowth of pathogenic organisms, of the delicate balance of the microbes in the canine GI microbiome can lead to dire consequences including inflammatory bowel disease and diarrhea. Here, we provide evidence that a novel dietary supplement rich in antioxidants can stimulate the proliferation of beneficial bacteria, such as those in the genera Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. These bacteria are considered important for their anti-inflammatory activity and do not disrupt the overall gut microbiome composition of healthy adult dogs when compared to a controlled group over a period of time. This study aimed to determine the impact of a novel formulation of a supplement composed of the natural ingredients, bromelain, quercetin, and Lentinula edodes, on the gut microbiota of healthy adult dogs. Adult healthy female dogs were administered either a placebo (CTR, n = 15) or the supplement (TRT, n = 15) over 28 days. Stool samples were collected for 16S rRNA sequencing before supplement administration (T0), at completion of supplement administration (T28), and one week after the end of supplement administration (T35) to characterize changes in the gut microbial communities. QIIME was used to determine both alpha- and beta-diversity, and ANCOM-BC was used to identify differences in taxonomic abundances before and after supplementation. We found a significant decrease in overall diversity in the CTR group but no significant differences in overall diversity in the TRT group over time. Furthermore, we found differences in the abundance of several taxa in both the CTR and TRT groups, but differences in the abundance of beneficial bacteria were more pronounced in the TRT group. Specifically, we found increases in the abundance of sequences belonging to the genera Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Pediococcus at T28 in the TRT group with significant increases in Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus persisting at T35 when compared to T0. Importantly, members of these genera are considered important for their anti-inflammatory properties, vital for fostering a balanced and robust gut microbiota in dogs. The results of our study show the potential of our supplement to selectively enhance specific beneficial bacterial taxa, offering a targeted approach to modulating the gut microbiome without causing disruptions to the overall equilibrium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish protein hydrolysate (FPH) is a product resulting from the degradation of fish protein into simple peptides and amino acids through hydrolysis. This study aims to optimise the enzymatic hydrolysis conditions of Pangasius sp. by-products to produce high-quality fish protein hydrolysate. Bromelain enzyme was used as the catalyst for hydrolysis. The degree of hydrolysis (DH), pH and antioxidant activity of FPH were used as response parameters. The optimisation was done using response surface methodology (RSM) by applying two factors (enzyme concentration and incubation time) with a 3-level Central Composite Design (CCD) model. The result showed that the bromelain concentration and incubation time gave significantly different effects (p<0.05) on the response parameters of Pangasius protein hydrolysate. Hydrolysis of Pangasius protein with 0.04% bromelain enzyme and incubation time of 2.8 hours resulted in DH, pH and DPPH antioxidant activity of 35.88%, 7.07 and 29.86%, respectively. The response value of Pangasius protein hydrolysate was within the range of the predicted value of hydrolysate. Therefore, the optimum conditions suggested by RSM can be used in the future production of Pangasius FPH. In addition, amino acid profiles of Pangasius protein hydrolysate showed high concentrations of Glycine, L-glutamic acid and L-aspartic Acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proteolytic activity of enzymes may be evaluated by a colorimetric method with azocasein. Hence, we developed a micro-assay to quantify bromelain using azocasein. A total of 250 µL of 1.0% azocasein in dH2O was added to 250 µL of test solution, vortexed and incubated at ambient room temperature/30 min. The reaction was terminated with 1500 µL of 5% trichloroacetic acid, vortexed and centrifuged. A total of 150 µL of 0.5M NaOH was added to 150 µL of supernatant in triplicates, and absorbance was recorded at 410 nm. The linearity of the calibration curve was tested with 200–800 µg/mL serial dilutions. The detection limit, precision, accuracy, and robustness were tested along with the substrate enzyme reaction time and solvent matrix effect. Good linearity was seen with serially diluted 200 µg/mL bromelain. The limit of quantification and limit of detection were 5.412 and 16.4 µg/mL, respectively. Intra-day and inter-day analyses showed a relative standard deviation below 2.0%. The assay was robust when tested over 400–450 nm wavelengths. The assays performed using dH2O or PBS diluents indicated a higher sensitivity in dH2O. The proteolytic activity of bromelain was enhanced with L-cysteine or N-acetylcysteine. Hence, this micro-azocasein assay is reliable for quantifying bromelain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are infections that involve the urethra, bladder, and, in much more severe cases, even kidneys. These infections represent one of the most common diseases worldwide. Various pathogens are responsible for this condition, the most common being Escherichia coli (E. coli). Bromelain is a proteolytic complex obtained from the stem and stalk of Ananas comosus (L.) Merr. showing several beneficial activities. In addition to bromelain, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has also been used. Methods: The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the antibacterial, anti-motility, and anti-biofilm effects of a new polyenzymatic complex (DIF17BRO®) in combination with NAC (the Formulation) on various strains of E. coli isolated from patients with UTIs. Subsequently, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of the Formulation were studied in an ex vivo model of cystitis, using bladder samples from mice exposed to E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Results: Our results showed that the Formulation significantly affects the capability of bacteria to form biofilm and reduces the bacteria amount in the mature biofilm. Moreover, it combines the interesting properties of NAC and a polyenzyme plant complex based on bromelain in a right dose to affect the E. coli adhesion capability. Finally, the Formulation exhibited protective effects, as confirmed by the inhibitory activities on multiple inflammatory and oxidative stress-related pathways on bladder specimens exposed to LPS. Conclusions: This blend of active compounds could represent a promising and versatile approach to use to overcome the limitations associated with conventional therapies.

A three-arm, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study was conducted to assess the impact of lyophilized pineapple extract with titrated bromelain (Brome-Inf®) and purified bromelain on pain, swelling, trismus, and quality of life (QoL) following the surgical extraction of the mandibular third molars. Furthermore, this study examined the need for Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) by comparing their effects with a placebo group. This study enrolled 42 individuals requiring the extraction of a single mandibular third molar under local anesthesia. The patients were randomly assigned to receive Brome-Inf®, purified bromelain, or a placebo orally, initiating treatment on the day of surgery and continuing for the next 7 days. The primary outcome measured was the requirement for NSAIDs in the three groups. Pain, swelling, and trismus were secondary outcome variables, evaluated postoperatively at 1, 3, and 7 days. This study also assessed the comparative efficacy of freeze-dried pineapple extract and single-component bromelain. Ultimately, the placebo group showed a statistically higher need for ibuprofen (from days 1 to 7) at the study's conclusion (p < 0.0001). In addition, reductions in pain and swelling were significantly higher in both the bromelain and pineapple groups (p < 0.0001 for almost all patients, at all intervals) than in the placebo group. The active groups also demonstrated a significant difference in QoL compared to the placebo group (p < 0.001). A non-significant reduction in trismus occurred in the treatment groups compared to the placebo group. Therefore, the administration of pineapple extract titrated in bromelain showed significant analgesic and anti-edema effects in addition to improving QoL in the postoperative period for patients who had undergone mandibular third molar surgery. Moreover, both bromelain and Brome-Inf® supplementation reduced the need for ibuprofen to comparable extents, proving that they are good alternatives to NSAIDs in making the postoperative course more comfortable for these patients. A further investigation with larger samples is necessary to assess the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory impacts of the entire pineapple phytocomplex in surgical procedures aside from mandibular third molar surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most common oral and maxillofacial procedure is surgical removal of impacted third molars, which often results in post-operative inflammatory changes. Many pharmacological and nonpharmacological measures have been tried, to help resolve the same with minimum side effects to patients. Non pharmacological measures are surgery, cryotherapy amongst many others. Pharmacological measures include enzymatic or non-enzymatic preparations like antibiotics, steroids and various analgesic drugs. One such newer preparation is that of bromelain, which is an extract from the pineapple stem and plant. It is rich in thiol endopeptidases, cellulose, glycoproteins and carbohydrates. Bromelain has been very commonly used in a lot of medical interventions like sinusitis, thrombophlebitis, surgical trauma, pyelonephritis, angina pectoris, bronchitis as well as for enhancing absorption. It's direct effect on bradykinin receptors has been affiliated to its analgesic property though it can also be due to its anti-inflammatory action. Research has shown that swelling, time required for healing, pain, bruising is reduced due to its property to digest fibrin; enabling reduced oedema post-operatively. Various dosages of the drug have been used to verify its efficacy but there is no consensus on exact optimum dosages. Hence in this study we aim at determining optimum dosage for bromelain providing an ideal maximum effect to reduce inflammation after removal of impacted third molars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Huge amount of waste is generated by the pineapple processing industries which raises concerns regarding its safe disposal into the environment. This ever-increasing problem of waste management can be solved by the valorization of pineapple by-products to high-value compounds. The extraction of proteolytic enzyme, bromelain from pineapple rind using green techniques can help to overcome the drawbacks associated with conventional methods. In the present study, the extraction of bromelain from pineapple rind using microwave assisted technique resulted in considerable amount of proteolytic activity (127.8 U/mL) and protein content (2.55 mg/mL). The optimized extraction conditions were found as 200 W microwave power, 1:5 solid/ liquid ratio and after treatment time of 10 min. Highest specific activity (512 U/mg) of bromelain was obtained after using gel filtration chromatography. FTIR result confirmed the presence of functional groups in bromelain, whereas, XRD analysis indicated the semi-crystalline nature of bromelain. The results indicated MAE as an effective green technique for the extraction of bromelain from pineapple rind. The proteolytic action of the extracted bromelain makes it a suitable functional ingredient for its applications in bakery, dairy, and seafood processing industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bromelain is a complex natural mixture of sulfhydryl-containing proteolytic enzymes that can be extracted from the stem or fruit of the pineapple. This compound is considered a safe nutraceutical, has been used to treat various health problems, and is also popular as a health-promoting dietary supplement. There is continued interest in bromelain due to its remarkable therapeutic properties. The mechanism of action of bromelain appears to extend beyond its proteolytic activity as a digestive enzyme, encompassing a range of effects (mucolytic, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, and antiedematous effects). Little is known about the clinical use of bromelain in pediatrics, as most of the available data come from in vitro and animal studies, as well as a few RCTs in adults. This narrative review was aimed at highlighting the main aspects of the use of bromelain in children, which still appears to be limited compared to its potential. Relevant articles were identified through searches in MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE. There is no conclusive evidence to support the use of bromelain in children, but the limited literature data suggest that its addition to standard therapy may be beneficial in treating conditions such as upper respiratory tract infections, specific dental conditions, and burns. Further studies, including RCTs in pediatric settings, are needed to better elucidate the mechanism of action and properties of bromelain in various therapeutic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Burn surgery on the hands is a difficult procedure due to the complex anatomy and fragility of the area. Enzymatic debridement has been shown to effectively remove burn eschar while minimizing damage to the surrounding tissue and has therefore become a standard procedure in many burn centers worldwide over the past decade. However, surprisingly, our recent literature review showed limited valid data on the long-term scarring after the enzymatic debridement of the hands. Therefore, we decided to present our study on this topic to fill this gap. Materials and Methods: This study analyzed partial-thickness to deep dermal burns on the hands that had undergone enzymatic debridement at least 12 months prior. Objective measures, like flexibility, trans-epidermal water loss, erythema, pigmentation, and microcirculation, were recorded and compared intraindividually to the uninjured skin in the same area of the other hand to assess the regenerative potential of the skin after EDNX. The subjective scar quality was evaluated using the patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS), the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), and the "Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand" (DASH) questionnaire and compared interindividually to a control group of 15 patients who had received traditional surgical debridement for hand burns of the same depth. Results: Between January 2014 and December 2015, 31 hand burns in 28 male and 3 female patients were treated with enzymatic debridement. After 12 months, the treated wounds showed no significant differences compared to the untreated skin in terms of flexibility, trans-epidermal water loss, pigmentation, and skin surface. However, the treated wounds still exhibited significantly increased blood circulation and erythema compared to the untreated areas. In comparison to the control group who received traditional surgical debridement, scarring was rated as significantly superior. Conclusions: In summary, it can be concluded that the objective skin quality following enzymatic debridement is comparable to that of healthy skin after 12 months and subjectively fares better than that after tangential excision. This confirms the superiority of enzymatic debridement in the treatment of deep dermal burns of the hand and solidifies its position as the gold standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective study examines the implementation of Nexobrid, an enzymatic debriding agent developed from bromelain, for burn debridement in a major Italian burn center. With previous research showing encouraging results for Nexobrid in terms of reducing the need for surgical intervention and faster eschar removal, the current study aims to add to the growing body of evidence regarding its potential benefits and limitations. The patient database was utilized to identify patients who received Nexobrid treatment between October 2019 and June 2023. A retrospective analysis was conducted to gather demographic information, burn causes, procedural details, and patient outcomes. Of the 30 patients treated with Nexobrid, 10% did not require further surgical intervention, showcasing Nexobrid's potential to improve patient outcomes. However, over 80% of patients still required additional surgical intervention, demonstrating that Nexobrid's effectiveness varies across patients and should be considered a tool rather than a definitive solution in burn wound management. A few patients developed complications, and about 10% of patients succumbed to systemic complications. The study results reveal both the potential benefits and limitations of using Nexobrid in burn debridement. While it successfully eliminated the need for further surgical intervention in a small percentage of patients, the majority still required additional surgical procedures. These findings not only highlight Nexobrid's role as a tool in burn wound management but also point toward the discrepancies with previous studies. The authors suggest future research should include randomized controlled trials, direct comparisons between Nexobrid and traditional debridement methods, and studies incorporating larger and more diverse patient groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]