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Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants
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Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants

A special issue of Plants (ISSN 2223-7747). This special issue belongs to the section "Phytochemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 1 July 2024 | Viewed by 28763

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Maja Mikulič-Petkovšek

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Interests: primary and secondary metabolites; biological potential of grapevine and fruit species; resistance mechanisms; plant–environment interaction; food chemistry; wine, high-performance liquid chromatography; mass spectrometry; natural product chemistry; antioxidants, bioactive compounds, food processing techniques, analytical methods, secondary metabolism, plant extracts, phytochemicals, fruit quality, plant extracts with biological activity, development of innovative products
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Phenolic substances are found in various plant organs and have different functions in plants: they contribute to the colour of flowers and fruits, attracting pollinators and seed dispensers; they have a protective function against herbivores and pathogens; and some phenolic compounds have an allelopathic effect. They also provide protection against UV radiation among other functions. In addition, phenolic compounds have a strong influence on the quality of the fruit produced and on the organoleptic characteristics of the juice and wine produced, such as colour, flavour, and aroma.
In essence, their most important task is to protect the plant from various abiotic and biotic harmful influences. Many environmental factors—including solar radiation, temperature, lack of water, and nutrients—lead to the synthesis and accumulation of phenolic components. In addition to abiotic factors, there are constant plant-damaging organisms in nature, such as herbivores, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes, against which the plant also tries to protect itself by synthesizing phenolic compounds. Because of their action, phenolic compounds can also be used as ecological agents to protect plants from insects and as growth inhibitors for certain plants.

The goal of this Special Issue of Plants is to publish studies that address many aspects of the importance of phenolic compounds in plants. The research can describe the importance of various phenolic compounds to quality parameters of plants and their products, such as juices and wine. However, research can also monitor the response of individual plants to environmental stressors (biotic or abiotic) and the effects of various technological processes of food production or processing on altered phenolic compound synthesis and content. The results of the allelopathic effect of some phenolic components on reduced growth of weed species and on control of some insects and pathogens are also very important and useful.

For consumers, data on the content of phenolic compounds in both plant foods and their products are extremely important, especially with regard to their beneficial effects on human health. For growers, the obtained research results will provide important information in the field of synthesis and content of the analysed phenolic substances in different types of production; additionally, insight will be given on the importance of these for the natural defence mechanisms of plants, showing the allelopathic effect of phenolic substances in agricultural production, and their resultant reduced environmental impact due to the reduced use of synthetic pesticides.

Dr. Maja Mikulič-Petkovšek
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Plants is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • phenolic compounds
  • secondary metabolites
  • hydroxycinnamic acids
  • phenolic acids
  • anthocyanins
  • flavonoids
  • biotic/abiotic stress
  • food chemistry
  • antioxidant activity
  • antioxidants
  • food analysis
  • juice
  • fruit
  • chromatography
  • extraction
  • plant biology
  • high-performance liquid chromatography
  • natural product chemistry
  • phytochemicals
  • allelopathy
  • plant pathology
  • environmental stressors
  • production technology

Published Papers (15 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 5875 KiB  
Article
Effect of Salinity Stress on Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Halophytes Spergularia marina (L.) Griseb. and Glaux maritima L. Cultured In Vitro
by Artem Pungin, Lidia Lartseva, Violetta Loskutnikova, Vladislav Shakhov, Elena Popova, Liubov Skrypnik and Olesya Krol
Plants 2023, 12(9), 1905; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants12091905 - 07 May 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1365
Abstract
The study of halophytes as sources of phenolic compounds, as well as conditions that further enhance the accumulation of biologically active compounds in them, is of particular interest. In this paper, the effect of different salinity levels (25–500 mM in the form of [...] Read more.
The study of halophytes as sources of phenolic compounds, as well as conditions that further enhance the accumulation of biologically active compounds in them, is of particular interest. In this paper, the effect of different salinity levels (25–500 mM in the form of NaCl) on the content of phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity of two rare halophyte species Spergularia marina (L.) Griseb. and Glaux maritima L. cultured in vitro was investigated. A species-specific reaction of plants to salinization was established. In G. maritima, the maximum total content of phenolic compounds was observed at 50–100 mM, flavonoids 75–400 mM, and hydroxycinnamic acids 200–300 mM, as well as individual phenolics (protocatechuic acid, catechin, astragalin, hyperoside, rutin, isoquercitrin, and apigenin derivative) at 100–300 mM NaCl. For S. marina, on the contrary, there was a slight decrease in the content of phenolic compounds when NaCl was added to the nutrient medium compared to the control. The content of protocatechuic acid, rosmarinic acid, and apigenin derivative significantly decreased with increased salt stress. The change in antioxidant activity at different salinity levels was also species specific. The maximum values of different groups of phenolic compounds in G. maritima were observed at 50–300 mM NaCl. The cultivation of S. marina without the addition of NaCl and at 500 mM NaCl allowed the production of plants with the highest content of phenolic compounds. The obtained results can be further used in the development of protocols for the cultivation of these plants in vitro in order to induce the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds in them. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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17 pages, 3563 KiB  
Article
Impact of Postharvest Putrescine Treatments on Phenolic Compounds, Antioxidant Capacity, Organic Acid Contents and Some Quality Characteristics of Fresh Fig Fruits during Cold Storage
by Emine Kucuker, Erdal Aglar, Mustafa Sakaldaş, Fatih Şen and Muttalip Gundogdu
Plants 2023, 12(6), 1291; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants12061291 - 13 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1532
Abstract
The storage and shelf life of the fig, which has a sensitive fruit structure, is short, and this results in excessive economic losses. In a study carried out to contribute to the solution of this problem, the effect of postharvest putrescine application at [...] Read more.
The storage and shelf life of the fig, which has a sensitive fruit structure, is short, and this results in excessive economic losses. In a study carried out to contribute to the solution of this problem, the effect of postharvest putrescine application at different doses (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mM) on fruit quality characteristics and biochemical content during cold storage in figs was determined. At the end of the cold storage, the decay rate and weight loss in the fruit were in the ranges of 1.0–1.6% and 1.0–5.0 %, respectively. The decay rate and weight loss were lower in putrescine-applied fruit during cold storage. Putrescine application had a positive effect on the changes in fruit flesh firmness values. The SSC rate of fruit varied between 14 and 20%, while significant differences in the SSC rate occurred depending on storage time and putrescine application dose. With putrescine application, the decrease in the acidity rate of the fig fruit during cold storage was smaller. At the end of the cold storage, the acidity rate was between 1.5–2.5% and 1.0–5.0. Putrescine treatments affected total antioxidant activity values and changes occurred in total antioxidant activity depending on the application dose. In the study, it was observed that the amount of phenolic acid in fig fruit decreased during storage and putrescine doses prevented this decrease. Putrescine treatment affected the changes in the quantity of organic acids during cold storage, and this effect varied depending on the type of organic acid and the length of the cold storage period. As a result, it was revealed that putrescine treatments can be used as an effective method to maintain postharvest fruit quality in figs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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24 pages, 1888 KiB  
Article
Effect of Hot- and Cold-Water Treatment on Broccoli Bioactive Compounds, Oxidative Stress Parameters and Biological Effects of Their Extracts
by Ivana Šola, Dino Davosir, Emilie Kokić and Jana Zekirovski
Plants 2023, 12(5), 1135; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants12051135 - 02 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1702
Abstract
The goal of this work was to define resistant and susceptible variables of young broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. convar. botrytis (L.) Alef. var. cymosa Duch.) plants treated with cold and hot water. Additionally, we wanted to single out variables that could potentially [...] Read more.
The goal of this work was to define resistant and susceptible variables of young broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. convar. botrytis (L.) Alef. var. cymosa Duch.) plants treated with cold and hot water. Additionally, we wanted to single out variables that could potentially be used as biomarkers of cold/hot-water stress in broccoli. Hot water changed more variables (72%) of young broccoli than cold water (24%) treatment. Hot water increased the concentration of vitamin C for 33%, hydrogen peroxide for 10%, malondialdehyde for 28%, and proline for 147%. Extracts of broccoli stressed with hot water were significantly more efficient in the inhibition of α-glucosidase (65.85 ± 4.85% compared to 52.00 ± 5.16% of control plants), while those of cold-water-stressed broccoli were more efficient in the inhibition of α-amylase (19.85 ± 2.70% compared to 13.26 ± 2.36% of control plants). Total glucosinolates and soluble sugars were affected by hot and cold water in an opposite way, which is why they could be used as biomarkers of hot/cold-water stress in broccoli. The possibility of using temperature stress to grow broccoli enriched with compounds of interest to human health should be further investigated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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14 pages, 1799 KiB  
Article
The Content of Phenolic Compounds in Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) Plants Derived from Melatonin and NaCl Treated Seeds
by Magdalena Simlat, Agata Ptak, Tomasz Wójtowicz and Agnieszka Szewczyk
Plants 2023, 12(4), 780; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants12040780 - 09 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1704
Abstract
Stevia is a plant with many beneficial properties. It contains not only steviol glycosides, which are used as non-caloric natural sweeteners, but also a number of metabolites with antioxidant properties. This study examined the content of both phenolic acids and flavonoids in stevia [...] Read more.
Stevia is a plant with many beneficial properties. It contains not only steviol glycosides, which are used as non-caloric natural sweeteners, but also a number of metabolites with antioxidant properties. This study examined the content of both phenolic acids and flavonoids in stevia leaves as an effect of treating seeds with melatonin and conducting germination in NaCl conditions. The results of our research indicated higher amounts of phenolic acids compared to flavonoids in stevia leaves. Among these acids, isochlorogenic, rosmarinic, and chlorogenic acids were accumulated in the largest amounts, regardless of the germination conditions. For 5 and 100 µM of melatonin treatments, the content of both phenolic acids and flavonoids increased. However, in salinity conditions (50 mM NaCl), 500 µM of melatonin had the most favorable effect on the synthesis of phenolic acids. The phenolic acids in that case reached a level three-times higher than that in the samples with the same melatonin concentration but without NaCl. We also found that the content of phenolic compounds varied depending on the age of the leaves. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to describe the effect of melatonin and NaCl on the synthesis on phenolic acids and flavonoids in stevia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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18 pages, 579 KiB  
Article
The Phenolic Profile of Sweet Cherry Fruits Influenced by Cultivar/Rootstock Combination
by Djordje Boskov, Dragan Milatovic, Vera Rakonjac, Gordan Zec, Metka Hudina, Robert Veberic and Maja Mikulic-Petkovsek
Plants 2023, 12(1), 103; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants12010103 - 25 Dec 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1326
Abstract
The influence of three cultivars (‘Carmen’, ‘Kordia’ and ‘Regina’) grafted on six rootstocks (Mahaleb, ‘Colt’, ‘Oblacinska’, ‘M × M 14′, ‘Gisela 5′ and ‘Gisela 6′) on the phenolic profile of sweet cherry fruits was studied during a two-year period. All the individual phenolic [...] Read more.
The influence of three cultivars (‘Carmen’, ‘Kordia’ and ‘Regina’) grafted on six rootstocks (Mahaleb, ‘Colt’, ‘Oblacinska’, ‘M × M 14′, ‘Gisela 5′ and ‘Gisela 6′) on the phenolic profile of sweet cherry fruits was studied during a two-year period. All the individual phenolic compounds were detected using high-pressure liquid chromatography with diode-array detection coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MSn). In all the examined samples, 54 compounds were identified and divided into five phenolic classes: anthocyanins (4 compounds), flavonols (7), flavanols (11), flavanones (4), and hydroxycinnamic acids (28). Anthocyanins (58%) and hydroxycinnamic acids (31%) showed the greatest amounts in all the examined fruit samples. PCA analysis revealed that among the cultivars, ‘Kordia’ showed the highest phenolic content. Regarding rootstocks, the lowest values of the most important phenolic compounds were obtained in fruits from trees grafted onto the seedling rootstock Mahaleb. Among the clonal rootstocks, the vigorous ‘Colt’ and dwarf ‘Gisela 5′ promoted the highest values of the evaluated phenolic compounds in the cultivars ‘Kordia’ and ‘Carmen’, while the dwarf ‘Oblacinska’ and semi-vigorous ‘M × M 14′ induced the highest values in the cultivar ‘Regina’. By evaluating the influence of cultivars and rootstocks on the phenolic content in fruit, it has been proven that the cultivar has the most significant influence. However, the rootstock also influences the content of a large number of phenolic compounds. The selection of an adequate cultivar/rootstock combination can also be a powerful tool for improving the phenolic content in fruits, and consequently the nutritional value of sweet cherry fruits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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18 pages, 1650 KiB  
Article
Rich in Phenolics—Strong Antioxidant Fruit? Comparative Study of 25 Strawberry Cultivars
by Dragica M. Milosavljević, Vuk M. Maksimović, Jasminka M. Milivojević, Đura J. Nakarada, Miloš D. Mojović and Jelena J. Dragišić Maksimović
Plants 2022, 11(24), 3566; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants11243566 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1501
Abstract
Phenolic compounds of 25 newly introduced strawberry cultivars were profiled using spectrophotometry, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Total phenolic and anthocyanin content (TPC and TACY, respectively), as well as vitamin C, and concentrations of individual phenolic compounds in [...] Read more.
Phenolic compounds of 25 newly introduced strawberry cultivars were profiled using spectrophotometry, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Total phenolic and anthocyanin content (TPC and TACY, respectively), as well as vitamin C, and concentrations of individual phenolic compounds in fruits were evaluated to identify the most promising cultivars according to their phenolic profile. The highest values of TPC, TACY, and vitamin C were recorded in ‘Premy’ (1.53 mg eq GA g−1 FW), ‘Sandra’ (30.60 mg eq Pg-3-g 100 g−1 FW), and ‘Laetitia’ (56.32 mg 100 g−1 FW), respectively. The DPPH and •OH radicals scavenging activity of fruit methanolic extracts was estimated using EPR spectroscopy. All cultivars are almost uniformly effective in the scavenging of •OH radical, while ‘Tea’, ‘Premy’, and ‘Joly’ were marked as highly potent cultivars (over 70%) in terms of DPPH-antiradical activity. Specific peroxidase activities were the highest in ‘Garda’, ‘Federica’, and ‘Rumba’ (0.11, 0.08, and 0.06 U mg−1 prot, respectively). ‘Laetitia’, ‘Joly’, ‘Arianna’, ‘Tea’, and ‘Mila’ cultivars were distinguished from others as the richest concerning almost all flavonoids and phenolic acids, including some other parameters of bioactivity. These cultivars could be recommended to consumers as functional fruit foods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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22 pages, 3889 KiB  
Article
Emulsification of Rosemary and Oregano Aqueous Extracts and Their In Vitro Bioavailability
by Sara Sirovec, Ana Jurinjak Tušek, Maja Benković, Davor Valinger, Tea Sokač Cvetnić, Jasenka Gajdoš Kljusurić and Tamara Jurina
Plants 2022, 11(23), 3372; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants11233372 - 04 Dec 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1970
Abstract
Due to their richness in phenolic compounds, Mediterranean plants such as rosemary and oregano are increasingly recommended for consumption for their numerous health benefits. The pH shift and the presence of digestive enzymes significantly reduce the bioavailability of these biochemicals as they pass [...] Read more.
Due to their richness in phenolic compounds, Mediterranean plants such as rosemary and oregano are increasingly recommended for consumption for their numerous health benefits. The pH shift and the presence of digestive enzymes significantly reduce the bioavailability of these biochemicals as they pass through the gastrointestinal tract. To prevent this degradation of phenolic compounds, methods such as emulsification of plant aqueous extracts are used. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of emulsification conditions on the chemical properties (total polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity) of emulsified rosemary and oregano extracts. Response surface methodology was applied to optimize sunflower oil concentration, rotational speed, and emulsifier concentration (commercial pea protein). The emulsions prepared under optimal conditions were then used in bioavailability studies (in vitro digestion). The antioxidant activity of the emulsified rosemary/oregano extracts, measured by the DPPH method, remained largely stable when simulating in vitro digestion. Analysis of antioxidant activity after in vitro simulation of the gastrointestinal system revealed a higher degree of maintenance (up to 76%) for emulsified plant extracts compared to aqueous plant extracts. This article contributes to our understanding of how plant extracts are prepared to preserve their biological activity and their application in the food industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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15 pages, 2883 KiB  
Article
Effects of Phenolic Compounds on Walnut Bacterial Blight in the Green Husk of Hungarian-Bred Cultivars
by Géza Bujdosó, Éva Lengyel-Kónya, Mária Berki, Anita Végh, Attila Fodor and Nóra Adányi
Plants 2022, 11(21), 2996; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants11212996 - 07 Nov 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1083
Abstract
The Persian walnut (Juglans regia L.) is the most grown nut tree crop in Central Europe. The aim was to study the full Hungarian walnut assortment with a distinct early spring phenology to detect the difference in phenolic profile in their green [...] Read more.
The Persian walnut (Juglans regia L.) is the most grown nut tree crop in Central Europe. The aim was to study the full Hungarian walnut assortment with a distinct early spring phenology to detect the difference in phenolic profile in their green husks. Furthermore, the relationship between the presence and concentration of phenolic compounds and the tolerance/resistance of the observed cultivars to walnut bacterial blight was investigated. Examining the samples, significant differences were found between the concentrations of the different groups of phenolic compounds. Walnut blight immunity tests were also performed to clarify the role of phenolic compounds in the nut derived from a non-irrigated orchard. The Hungarian-bred local cultivars contained phenolic compounds in higher concentrations than the domesticated ones. There was a significant correlation between the budburst, as well as the pistillate flowers’ receptivity and the concentration of juglone. Cultivars with a low concentration of phenolic compounds were the most susceptible to walnut bacterial blight, except ‘Bonifác’. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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15 pages, 1044 KiB  
Article
Ultrasound-Assisted Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents Extraction of Bilberry Anthocyanins: Optimization, Bioactivities, and Storage Stability
by Miloš S. Jovanović, Nemanja Krgović, Jelena Živković, Tatjana Stević, Gordana Zdunić, Dubravka Bigović and Katarina Šavikin
Plants 2022, 11(20), 2680; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants11202680 - 12 Oct 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1713
Abstract
Bilberry fruits (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) are one of the richest natural sources of anthocyanins and are widely used due to their pharmacological and nutritional properties. To ensure their maximum application potential, it is necessary to overcome the limitations of conventional extraction solvents [...] Read more.
Bilberry fruits (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) are one of the richest natural sources of anthocyanins and are widely used due to their pharmacological and nutritional properties. To ensure their maximum application potential, it is necessary to overcome the limitations of conventional extraction solvents and techniques. This study aimed to develop a green method for bilberry anthocyanin extraction using natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDES) integrated with ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) in order to define extraction conditions that will prevent decomposition of the anthocyanins or the loss of bioactivity. After a screening of ten different NaDES, choline chloride:sorbitol (1:1) was selected as the most effective. Furthermore, the influence analysis and optimization of the NaDES–UAE extraction conditions were carried out employing response surface methodology. The optimal conditions were found to be an extraction time of 37.63 min, a temperature of 48.38 °C, and 34.79% (w/w) water in NaDES. The extraction yields of target compounds under optimized extraction conditions were 0.27 mg/g DW of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and 2.12 mg CGE/g DW of TAC. The obtained optimized extract showed promising radical scavenging and antimicrobial activity. A stability study with the optimized extract revealed that refrigerated storage at 4 °C in the dark provided the best anthocyanins preservation. Overall, the developed NaDES-UAE method showed promising application potential and can be considered as a high-efficiency green alternative to conventional anthocyanins extraction methods, enabling the preservation of active ingredients and the bioactivity of extracts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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16 pages, 361 KiB  
Article
Bioassay-Guided Skin-Beneficial Effects of Fractionated Sideritis raeseri subsp. raeseri Extract
by Nemanja Krgović, Miloš Jovanović, Ana Alimpić Aradski, Teodora Janković, Tatjana Stević, Gordana Zdunić, Sonja Duletić Laušević and Katarina Šavikin
Plants 2022, 11(20), 2677; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants11202677 - 11 Oct 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1433
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the potentials for skin-beneficial effects of the hydroethanolic extract of the aerial parts of ironwort (Sideritis raeseri Boiss. & Heldr. subsp. raeseri) and its fractions (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water). For these purposes, chemical [...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate the potentials for skin-beneficial effects of the hydroethanolic extract of the aerial parts of ironwort (Sideritis raeseri Boiss. & Heldr. subsp. raeseri) and its fractions (petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water). For these purposes, chemical analysis and in vitro antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase and antimicrobial assays, as well as determination of sun protection factor (SPF), were performed. The highest total phenolic content and quantity of individual flavonoids, chlorogenic acid and verbascoside were determined in the n-butanol fraction, which is in line with results obtained for antioxidant activity. The greatest antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the most common causative agents of the skin infections in humans, was exhibited by the ethyl acetate fraction. The strongest anti-tyrosinase activity was shown by the hydroethanolic extract (52.64% of inhibition at 100 μg/mL). Almost all tested samples showed photoprotective activity with SPF higher than 6 obtained at a low concentration of 0.1 mg/mL, which was more than 15 for the butanol fraction. These findings revealed that the hydroethanolic extract of S. raeseri aerial parts could be a valuable ingredient in the formulation of cosmetic and medicinal products intended to overcome various skin disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
14 pages, 1571 KiB  
Article
Identification of Metabolites Changes and Quality in Strawberry Fruit: Effect of Cultivation in High Tunnel and Open Field
by Mustafa Kenan Gecer, Erdal Orman, Muttalip Gundogdu, Sezai Ercisli and Rohini Karunakaran
Plants 2022, 11(10), 1368; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants11101368 - 21 May 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1927
Abstract
Strawberry has gained increasing popularity all over the world due to its fruit properties. This popularity is due to the phytochemicals that strawberries have. The aim of this study is to reveal the effect of cultivation in open field and high tunnel on [...] Read more.
Strawberry has gained increasing popularity all over the world due to its fruit properties. This popularity is due to the phytochemicals that strawberries have. The aim of this study is to reveal the effect of cultivation in open field and high tunnel on agromorphological and biochemical properties of strawberries. In this study, fruit yield and fruit quality characteristics of some strawberry varieties grown in open field and high tunnel were investigated. The highest fruit yield, fruit weight and titratable acidity were obtained in high tunnel grown Albion cultivar (542.743 g/plant, 14.927 g/fruit and 1.047%, respectively). While there was no statistical difference between cultivars and treatments in terms of soluble solids content and pH, fruit count was higher in Albion and Kabarla cultivars in both treatments compared to other cultivars (p < 0.05). Among the phenolic compounds, gallic acid was determined to be higher (between 9.246–31.680 mg/100 g) than other phenolics. Considering the organic acid content, malic acid was determined as the dominant organic acid in Kabarla cultivar (870.729 mg/100 g). In addition, in terms of vitamin C content, Rubygem cultivar stood out in both applications. Phenolic compound and organic acid contents varied in terms of varieties and applications. As a result, strawberry fruit, which is an important fruit in terms of fruit quality and consumption diversity, has been found to have high phenolic compounds and organic acid content, although it varies in all varieties and applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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15 pages, 1851 KiB  
Article
The (Bio)chemical Base of Flower Colour in Bidens ferulifolia
by Benjamin Walliser, Silvija Marinovic, Christoph Kornpointner, Christopher Schlosser, Mustafa Abouelnasr, Olly Sanny Hutabarat, Christian Haselmair-Gosch, Christian Molitor, Karl Stich and Heidi Halbwirth
Plants 2022, 11(10), 1289; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants11101289 - 11 May 2022
Viewed by 3186
Abstract
Bidens ferulifolia is a yellow flowering plant, originating from Mexico, which is increasingly popular as an ornamental plant. In the past few years, new colour combinations ranging from pure yellow over yellow-red, white-red, pure white and purple have emerged on the market. We [...] Read more.
Bidens ferulifolia is a yellow flowering plant, originating from Mexico, which is increasingly popular as an ornamental plant. In the past few years, new colour combinations ranging from pure yellow over yellow-red, white-red, pure white and purple have emerged on the market. We analysed 16 Bidens ferulifolia genotypes to provide insight into the (bio)chemical base underlying the colour formation, which involves flavonoids, anthochlors and carotenoids. In all but purple and white genotypes, anthochlors were the prevalent pigments, primarily derivatives of okanin, a 6′-deoxychalcone carrying an unusual 2′3′4′-hydroxylation pattern in ring A. The presence of a cytochrome-P450-dependent monooxygenase introducing the additional hydroxyl group in position 3′ of both isoliquiritigenin and butein was demonstrated for the first time. All genotypes accumulate considerable amounts of the flavone luteolin. Red and purple genotypes additionally accumulate cyanidin-type anthocyanins. Acyanic genotypes lack flavanone 3-hydroxylase and/or dihydroflavonol 4-reductase activity, which creates a bottleneck in the anthocyanin pathway. The carotenoid spectrum was analysed in two Bidens genotypes and showed strong variation between the two cultivars. In comparison to anthochlors, carotenoids were present in much lower concentrations. Carotenoid monoesters, as well as diesters, were determined for the first time in B. ferulifolia flower extracts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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Review

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12 pages, 1165 KiB  
Review
Insights and Perspectives on Plant-Based Beverages
by Aneta Popova, Dasha Mihaylova and Anna Lante
Plants 2023, 12(19), 3345; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants12193345 - 22 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1953
Abstract
The emerging demand for everyday food substitutes is increasing on a daily basis. More and more individuals struggle with allergies and intolerances, which makes it mandatory to provide alternatives for simple products like dairy milk. Plant-based beverages (PBBs) are currently trending due to [...] Read more.
The emerging demand for everyday food substitutes is increasing on a daily basis. More and more individuals struggle with allergies and intolerances, which makes it mandatory to provide alternatives for simple products like dairy milk. Plant-based beverages (PBBs) are currently trending due to the multiple diets that promote their consumption with or without a justification. PBBs can derive from various types of plants, not exclusively nuts. Some of the most well-known sources are almonds, soy, rice, and hazelnuts, among others. In view of the need for sustainable approaches to resource utilization and food production, novel sources for PBBs are being sought, and those include fruit kernels. The plant kingdom offers a palette of resources with proven bioactivity, i.e., containing flavonoids, phenolic acids, vitamins, carotenoids, and phenolics, among others. Many of these beneficial substances are water soluble, which means they could be transferred to the plant beverage compositions. The current review aims at comparing the vast number of potential formulations based on their specific nutritional profiles and potential deficiencies, as well as their expected health-promoting properties, based on the raw material(s) used for production. Special attention will be given to the antinutrients, usually abundant in plant-based sources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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13 pages, 1467 KiB  
Review
Avenanthramides, Distinctive Hydroxycinnamoyl Conjugates of Oat, Avena sativa L.: An Update on the Biosynthesis, Chemistry, and Bioactivities
by Chanel J. Pretorius and Ian A. Dubery
Plants 2023, 12(6), 1388; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants12061388 - 21 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2154
Abstract
Avenanthramides are a group of N-cinnamoylanthranilic acids (phenolic alkaloid compounds) that are produced in oat plants as phytoalexins, in response to pathogen attack and elicitation. The enzyme catalysing the cinnamamide-generating reaction is hydroxycinnamoyl-CoA: hydroxyanthranilate N-hydroxycinnamoyltransferase (HHT, a member of the super [...] Read more.
Avenanthramides are a group of N-cinnamoylanthranilic acids (phenolic alkaloid compounds) that are produced in oat plants as phytoalexins, in response to pathogen attack and elicitation. The enzyme catalysing the cinnamamide-generating reaction is hydroxycinnamoyl-CoA: hydroxyanthranilate N-hydroxycinnamoyltransferase (HHT, a member of the super family of BAHD acyltransferases). HHT from oat appears to have a narrow range of substrate usage, with preferred use of 5-hydroxyanthranilic acid (and to a lesser extent, other hydroxylated and methoxylated derivatives) as acceptor molecules, but is able to use both substituted cinnamoyl-CoA and avenalumoyl-CoA thioesters as donor molecules. Avenanthramides thus combine carbon skeletons from both the stress-inducible shikimic acid and phenylpropanoid pathways. These features contribute to the chemical characteristics of avenanthramides as multifunctional plant defence compounds, as antimicrobial agents and anti-oxidants. Although avenanthramides are naturally and uniquely synthesised in oat plants, these molecules also exhibit medicinal and pharmaceutical uses important for human health, prompting research into utilisation of biotechnology to enhance agriculture and value-added production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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82 pages, 36773 KiB  
Systematic Review
An Insight into Citrus medica Linn.: A Systematic Review on Phytochemical Profile and Biological Activities
by Nadia Benedetto, Vittorio Carlucci, Immacolata Faraone, Ludovica Lela, Maria Ponticelli, Daniela Russo, Claudia Mangieri, Nikolay T. Tzvetkov and Luigi Milella
Plants 2023, 12(12), 2267; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/plants12122267 - 10 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2594
Abstract
Plant species are a reservoir of natural compounds that can potentially be used to treat different diseases. Citrus medica Linn. belonging to the Rutaceae family, has been used for centuries in medicine for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antihyperglycemic properties. These activities [...] Read more.
Plant species are a reservoir of natural compounds that can potentially be used to treat different diseases. Citrus medica Linn. belonging to the Rutaceae family, has been used for centuries in medicine for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, and antihyperglycemic properties. These activities are ascribable not only to the presence of health-promoting macronutrients and micronutrients, such as carbohydrates, minerals, amino acids, and vitamins, but also to specialized metabolites, such as flavonoids (apigenin, hesperetin, hesperidin, naringin, naringenin, rutin, quercetin, and diosmin), coumarins (citropten, scoparone, and bergapten), terpenes (limonene, γ-terpinene, limonin, and nomilin), and phenolic acids (p-coumaric acid, trans-ferulic acid, and chlorogenic acid). In recent years, particular attention has been focused on the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial activity, antidiabetic, anticancer, and neuroprotective activity of C. medica. However, although many studies have reported this species’ chemical and biological properties, the literature has never been analyzed via a systematic approach. For this reason, using PubMed and Scopus as databases, we performed a systematic review of C. medica’s chemical composition and biological properties to inspire new research approaches and increase its curative application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multifunctionality of Phenolic Compounds in Plants)
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