RESUMO
During ageing, the brain is vulnerable to a growing imbalance of the antioxidant defence system, resulting in increased oxidative stress. This condition may be mainly responsible for cognitive decline, resulting in synaptic transmission disruptions and the onset of neuronal dysfunction. In this context, developing efficient preventive and therapeutic strategies against increased oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant defence mechanisms should be considered a public health priority to promote healthy ageing. Therefore, the current study explored the benefits of a novel combination of green tea, saffron, trans-Reveratrol, and citicoline, called MIX, on improving intracellular processes to ameliorate the mechanisms linked to cognitive decline under oxidative stress conditions. First, the ability of MIX to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) was evaluated in an in vitro model, analysing TEER value and the specific tight junctions; second, the CCF-STTG1 cell line was pretreated with 200 µM H2O2 for 30 min to explore the effects of the single active compounds and their combination under oxidative stress conditions. Our results demonstrated for the first time the synergistic effects of the new combination to improve the absorption rate of individual agents through the BBB and maintain its integrity. Subsequently, further research was done to assess the positive role of the combination to counteract oxidative damage; as expected, MIX restored the neurodegenerative state activated by 200 µM H2O2, reducing mitochondrial damage, and improving survival pathways. Additionally, MIX acted as a regulator of both cellular energy metabolism and apoptosis, reducing the inflammatory state activated by oxidative stress. Finally, MIX can balance neurotrophin production to prevent mitochondrial disruption. In conclusion, MIX counteracted the adverse effects of brain oxidative stress, suggesting that this new proposed formulation prevents the molecular mechanisms underlying the onset of cognitive decline, even in support of conventional therapy.
Assuntos
Disfunção Cognitiva , Crocus , Citidina Difosfato Colina , Estresse Oxidativo , Resveratrol , Chá , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacos , Disfunção Cognitiva/tratamento farmacológico , Disfunção Cognitiva/metabolismo , Chá/química , Resveratrol/farmacologia , Resveratrol/uso terapêutico , Citidina Difosfato Colina/farmacologia , Citidina Difosfato Colina/uso terapêutico , Crocus/química , Humanos , Animais , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , CamundongosRESUMO
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a plant known for its diverse medicinal and nutritional properties, which has adapted well to arid and semi-arid regions of the world, particularly in the Middle East. Research on saffron wastes (SW) as a dietary additive for small ruminants is limited. Therefore, two primary experiments were designed to evaluate the nutritional potential of SW. In the first trial, the nutritional value of SW collected from various regions in northeast Iran was assessed through proximate analysis and in vitro procedures. In the second trial, the effects of incorporating SW (a 1: 1 mixture from all regions, w: w) at two levels (30 and 60 g/day) into the diets of Afshari male lambs were investigated in comparison to a control diet. Except for dry matter and ether extract contents, other chemical and mineral compounds varied among the SW collected from different regions. The samples displayed diversity in potential gas production and estimated dry matter intake (DMI). In the in vivo experiment, DMI, nutrient digestibility, and most blood metabolites were not significantly affected by the addition of SW; however, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, and cholesterol levels were respectively decreased, increased, and decreased in lambs fed 60 g SW/day compared to the control group. Overall, SW collected from various regions demonstrated different nutritional values. Although the dietary inclusion of SW at the level of 60 g/day did not adversely effect on DMI, nutrient digestibility, or certain blood metabolites, it is suggested for its potential improvement in lambs' health indicators. Long-term studies are recommended for future SW evaluation in vivo.
Assuntos
Ração Animal , Antioxidantes , Crocus , Dieta , Valor Nutritivo , Animais , Crocus/química , Antioxidantes/análise , Antioxidantes/metabolismo , Ração Animal/análise , Masculino , Irã (Geográfico) , Dieta/veterinária , Fenômenos Fisiológicos da Nutrição Animal , Carneiro Doméstico/fisiologia , Suplementos Nutricionais/análise , Ovinos/fisiologia , Digestão/efeitos dos fármacosRESUMO
Depression is a significant mental health challenge globally. While traditional antidepressants are effective, they often have unwanted side effects. Saffron, a natural spice derived from Crocus sativus L., has emerged as a potential alternative therapy for depression. Researchers have found that its components such as crocin, crocetin, and safranal have been found to mitigate depressive symptoms through neurotransmitter regulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and neuroprotection. Clinical trials suggest that the effectiveness of saffron in treating mild to moderate depression is comparable to that of standard medications, and animal studies support these results, showing behavioral improvements with saffron treatment. Saffron is particularly appealing due to its safety and lower incidence of side effects, making it suitable for those sensitive to conventional drugs. Additionally, its antioxidant properties may offer further health benefits. However, challenges such as determining the appropriate dosage, prohibitive cost, and the limited availability of quality saffron need to be addressed. Most research on saffron's efficacy is short-term; thus, long-term studies are essential to understand its full therapeutic potential and ongoing antidepressant effects. While saffron is safe in terms of its culinary value, higher therapeutic doses require careful monitoring for drug interactions and side effects. In summary, saffron represents a promising direction in depression treatment, with benefits potentially matching those of standard treatments and a better safety profile. However, further research is necessary to establish clear guidelines for its use, optimize dosing, and assess long-term outcomes. Saffron offers a natural treatment path for depression, but its use must be controlled and supported by scientific evidence.
Assuntos
Antidepressivos , Crocus , Depressão , Crocus/química , Humanos , Depressão/tratamento farmacológico , Antidepressivos/farmacologia , Antidepressivos/uso terapêutico , Animais , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/uso terapêuticoRESUMO
A predictive model utilizing near-infrared spectroscopy was developed to estimate the loss on drying, total contents of crocin I and crocin II, and picrocrocin content of saffron. Initially, the LD values were determined using a moisture-ash analyzer, while HPLC was employed for measuring the total contents of crocin I, crocin II, and picrocrocin. The near-infrared spectra of 928 saffron samples were collected and preprocessed using first derivative, standard normal variable transformation, detrended correction, multivariate scattering correction, Savitzky-Golay smoothing, and mean centering methods. Leveraging the partial least squares method, regression models were constructed, with parameters optimized through a selective combination of the above six preprocessing methods. Subsequently, prediction models for loss on drying, total contents of crocin I and crocin II, and picrocrocin content were established, and the prediction accuracy of the models was verified. The correlation coefficients and root mean square error of loss on drying, total contents of crocin I and crocin II, and picrocrocin content demonstrated high accuracy, with R2 values of 0.8627, 0.8851, and 0.8592 and root mean square error values of 0.0260, 0.0682, and 0.0465. This near-infrared prediction model established in the present study offers a precise and efficient means of assessing loss on drying, total contents of crocin I and crocin II, and picrocrocin content in saffron and is useful for the development of a rapid quality evaluation system.
Assuntos
Carotenoides , Crocus , Espectroscopia de Luz Próxima ao Infravermelho , Crocus/química , Espectroscopia de Luz Próxima ao Infravermelho/métodos , Carotenoides/análise , Análise dos Mínimos Quadrados , Cromatografia Líquida de Alta Pressão/métodos , Glucosídeos , Terpenos , CicloexenosRESUMO
The main constituents of saffron are the apocarotenoids crocins and crocetin, present in the stigmas. Numerous healthy properties, especially those related to the effects on the central nervous system, have been attributed to these compounds but the metabolites responsible for these effects are still unknown. Previous evidences in animal models suggest a role for the gut microbiota in the pharmacokinetics and the neuroprotective effects of these compounds. However, the interaction between these apocarotenoids and the gut microbiota has been poorly studied. In this article, we have thoroughly investigated the batch fermentation of crocin-1 and crocetin (10 µM) with human fecal samples of two donors at different incubation times (0-240 h) using a metabolomic approach. We corroborated a rapid transformation of crocin-1 which looses the glucose molecules through de-glycosylation reactions until its complete transformation into crocetin in 6 hours. A group of intermediate crocins with different degrees of glycosylation were detected in a very short time. Crocetin was further metabolized and new microbial metabolites produced by double-bond reduction and demethylation reactions were identified for the first time: dihydro and tetrahydro crocetins and di-demethyl crocetin. In addition, we detected changes in the levels of the short chain fatty acids valeric acid and hexanoic acid suggesting further structural modifications of crocetin or changes in the catabolic production of these compounds. This research is a pioneering study of the action of the human gut microbiota on the saffron apocarotenoids and goes one step further towards the discovery of metabolites potentially involved in the benefits of saffron.
Assuntos
Carotenoides , Crocus , Fezes , Microbioma Gastrointestinal , Vitamina A , Carotenoides/metabolismo , Humanos , Crocus/química , Crocus/metabolismo , Vitamina A/análogos & derivados , Vitamina A/metabolismo , Fezes/microbiologia , Fermentação , Bactérias/metabolismo , Bactérias/classificação , Extratos Vegetais/metabolismo , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologiaRESUMO
Wound healing is a complex process orchestrated by interactions between a variety of cell types, including keratinocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, inflammatory cells, and bioactive factors such as extracellular matrix (ECM) components, growth factors, and cytokines. Chronic wounds exhibit delayed proliferative phase initiation, reduced angiogenesis, impaired ECM synthesis, and persistent inflammatory response. Chronic wounds are one of the main challenges to the healthcare system worldwide, with a high cost for medical services. Hence, investigation of new approaches to accelerate wound healing is essential. Phytomedicines are considered as potential agents for improving the wound healing by accelerating epithelization, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis. These natural compounds have various advantages including availability, ease of application, and high effectiveness in wound managment. This study aimed to investigate the biological effects of saffron or Crocus sativus L. (C. sativus) petal extract on cell survival, migration, and angiogenesis using MTT, scratch and in vitro tube formation assays. Moreover, the expression of collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were evaluated in human dermal fibroblasts (HDF)s and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC)s, respectively. The effect of the C. sativus extract on the skin of diabetic mice was also monitored. The results showed that C. sativus petal extract promoted the viability and migration of HDFs and HUVECs. Moreover, C. sativus petal extract enhanced the formation of tube-like structures by HUVECs cultured on the Matrigel basement membrane matrix, indicating its potential to stimulate angiogenesis. Gene expression studies have shown the the C. sativus extract increases wound healing by upregulation of COL1A1 and VEGF, which are crucial factors involved in collagen deposition, epithelialization, and angiogenesis. Histological analysis revealed that C. sativus petal extract enhanced vascularity and increased the number of fibroblasts and collagen synthesis, ultimately accelerating wound closure compared to wounds treated with eucerin and commercial ointment in diabetic mice. Therefore, C. sativus petal extract has potential as a herbal treatment to improve the healing of diabetic wounds.
Assuntos
Crocus , Fibroblastos , Células Endoteliais da Veia Umbilical Humana , Extratos Vegetais , Fator A de Crescimento do Endotélio Vascular , Cicatrização , Cicatrização/efeitos dos fármacos , Crocus/química , Animais , Humanos , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Células Endoteliais da Veia Umbilical Humana/efeitos dos fármacos , Camundongos , Fibroblastos/efeitos dos fármacos , Fibroblastos/metabolismo , Fator A de Crescimento do Endotélio Vascular/metabolismo , Fator A de Crescimento do Endotélio Vascular/genética , Diabetes Mellitus Experimental/tratamento farmacológico , Colágeno Tipo I/metabolismo , Colágeno Tipo I/genética , Movimento Celular/efeitos dos fármacos , Sobrevivência Celular/efeitos dos fármacos , Cadeia alfa 1 do Colágeno Tipo I , Flores/química , Neovascularização Fisiológica/efeitos dos fármacos , MasculinoRESUMO
Depression is one of the most common psychiatric conditions worldwide, with an annual escalation in prevalence. The serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) metabolism through the gut-brain axis has been revealed to be related to the development of depression. Our previous study demonstrated that Lactococcus lactis WHH2078 alleviated depression in mice by shaping the gut microbiome composition and 5-HT metabolism. However, little research has explored the synergistic effects of probiotics and natural mental health-improving products. In this study, three natural products (saffron, l-theanine, and phosphatidylserine), either individually or in combination, were orally administrated for 4 weeks in chronic restraint stress (CRS)-induced mice, and their depressive behaviors, hippocampal 5-HT, and serum corticosterone were assessed. Saffron demonstrated improvement of the depressive-like behaviors via multiple behavioral tests and reversed the declined concentration of 5-HT and increased concentration of corticosterone. Following an initial screening, saffron was chosen to be combined with WHH2078, referred to as WHHMOOD™. Furthermore, the effects of WHHMOOD were evaluated in mice with depressive-like behaviors. WHHMOOD reduced immobility time in the forced swimming test and tail suspension test, increased the time spent in the central area in open field test, and reduced the serum corticosterone level. Besides, WHHMOOD improved the CRS-induced gut microbial dysbiosis by reversing gut microbial diversity and the abundances of Ligilactobacillus, Candidatus Arthromitus, and Erysipelatoclostridium. Compared to WHH2078, WHHMOOD treatment significantly increased the travel distance and hippocampal 5-HT level in mice. In conclusion, WHHMOOD exhibited prophylactic effects on depressive-like in CRS mice, which may act as a promising agent for improving the symptoms of depression.
Assuntos
Comportamento Animal , Corticosterona , Crocus , Depressão , Microbioma Gastrointestinal , Lactococcus lactis , Probióticos , Serotonina , Estresse Psicológico , Animais , Camundongos , Masculino , Probióticos/farmacologia , Probióticos/administração & dosagem , Crocus/química , Corticosterona/sangue , Serotonina/metabolismo , Comportamento Animal/efeitos dos fármacos , Microbioma Gastrointestinal/efeitos dos fármacos , Hipocampo/metabolismo , Modelos Animais de Doenças , Suplementos Nutricionais , GlutamatosRESUMO
Experimental evidence indicates that the noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists ketamine and MK-801 induce schizophrenia-like symptoms in rodents, including cognitive deficits. Crocins are among the active components of the plant Crocus sativus L. and were found to be effective in different models of psychiatric disorders comprising schizophrenia. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of the joint administration of sub-effective doses of crocins with those of the atypical antipsychotics clozapine and risperidone in alleviating nonspatial recognition and emotional memory deficits induced either by ketamine (3 mg/kg) or MK-801 (0.1 mg/kg) in the rat. To this end, the object recognition and the step-through passive avoidance tests were used. Co-administration of sub-effective doses of crocins (5 mg/kg) with those of clozapine (0.1 mg/kg) or risperidone (0.03 mg/kg) counteracted nonspatial recognition and emotional memory deficits induced by NMDA receptor antagonists. The current findings suggest that this combinatorial treatment was efficacious in attenuating cognitive impairments related to the blockade of the NMDA receptor. In addition, the present results support the potential of crocins as an adjunctive drug for the therapy of schizophrenia.
Assuntos
Antipsicóticos , Carotenoides , Clozapina , Crocus , Maleato de Dizocilpina , Transtornos da Memória , Ratos Wistar , Receptores de N-Metil-D-Aspartato , Risperidona , Animais , Crocus/química , Carotenoides/farmacologia , Antipsicóticos/farmacologia , Risperidona/farmacologia , Receptores de N-Metil-D-Aspartato/antagonistas & inibidores , Receptores de N-Metil-D-Aspartato/metabolismo , Ratos , Transtornos da Memória/induzido quimicamente , Transtornos da Memória/tratamento farmacológico , Masculino , Clozapina/farmacologia , Maleato de Dizocilpina/farmacologia , Ketamina/farmacologia , Esquizofrenia/tratamento farmacológico , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologiaRESUMO
Most research on saffron has focused on its composition and beneficial effects, while the culinary perspective to enhance its gastronomic potential remains unexplored. This study aims to define the transfer of the main compounds responsible for color, flavor, and aromatic properties, evaluating three critical variables: temperature (60 °C, 80 °C and 100 °C), infusion time (ranging from 10 to 30 min), and the composition of the medium (water, oil, and water/oil). Samples were analyzed using the LC-QTOF MS/MS and ISO 3632-1:2011 methods. The major compounds were crocins, including trans-crocin and picrocrocin. Among the flavonoids, kaempferol 3-O-sophoroside stands out. Regarding extraction conditions, crocins, glycoside flavonoids, and picrocrocin were enhanced in water, the former in 100% water and at low temperatures, while picrocrocin proved to be the most stable compound with extraction favored at high temperatures. The variable with the greatest incidence of picrocrocin isolation seemed to be the concentration of water since water/oil compositions reported higher concentrations. Safranal and kaempferol were enriched in the oil phase and at lower temperatures. This study provides a chemical interpretation for the appropriate gastronomic use of saffron according to its versatility. Finally, the determination of safranal using the ISO method did not correlate with that obtained using chromatography.
Assuntos
Carotenoides , Crocus , Extratos Vegetais , Temperatura , Água , Crocus/química , Água/química , Carotenoides/análise , Carotenoides/química , Extratos Vegetais/química , Glucosídeos/análise , Glucosídeos/química , Espectrometria de Massas em Tandem/métodos , Terpenos/análise , Terpenos/química , Flavonoides/análise , Flavonoides/química , Cicloexenos/análise , Compostos Fitoquímicos/química , Compostos Fitoquímicos/análise , Quempferóis/análise , Quempferóis/química , Cromatografia Líquida/métodosRESUMO
Crocus sativus L., commonly known as saffron, is a precious spice coming from Asia, in particular from Iran, the country leader in its production. The spice is derived exclusively from dried stigmas and it is the most expensive one in the world. The areas of application of saffron are multiple, in fact ranging across the food, drinks, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics sectors. As is the case with other phytochemicals, not only the final product but also saffron by-products are considered a valuable source of bioactive natural compounds. In fact, its healthy effects, especially as antioxidants and anti-inflammatories (via reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines), are well-recognized in internal medicine. In particular, its healthy effects are related to counteracting degenerative maculopathy, depression and anxiety, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic syndrome, cancer and chronic kidney disease, by promoting glucose metabolism. In this review, we summarize the most important papers in which saffron has turned out to be a valuable ally in the prevention and treatment of these pathologies. Moreover, we would like to promote the use of saffron by-products as part of a bio-circular economy system, aimed at reducing wastes, at maximizing the use of resources and at promoting environmental and economic sustainability.
Assuntos
Antioxidantes , Crocus , Crocus/química , Humanos , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Especiarias/análise , Anti-Inflamatórios/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Doenças Neurodegenerativas , Compostos Fitoquímicos/farmacologiaRESUMO
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory illness of the gastrointestinal tract (GI), characterized by recurrent episodes of inflammation and tissue destruction. It affects an increasing number of individuals worldwide who suffer from Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). Despite substantial advances in understanding the underlying causes of IBD, the available treatments remain restricted and are sometimes accompanied by severe consequences. Consequently, there is an urgent need to study alternate therapeutic options. This review assesses the present drugs, identifies their limitations, and proposes the use of saffron, a natural plant with great therapeutic potential based on preclinical and clinical investigations. Saffron has gained attention for its potential therapeutic benefits in treating various ailments due to its established bioactive compounds possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review covers how saffron impacts the levels of calprotectin, an inflammatory marker, for various inflammatory responses in multiple diseases including IBD. Data from clinical trials were assessed to determine the efficacy and safety of using saffron to counter inflammation in multiple diseases. Studies have shown that saffron may protect against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through several mechanisms by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IL-6), reducing oxidative stress through antioxidant effects, enhancing mucosal barrier function by upregulating tight junction proteins, and modulating the gut microbiota composition to promote beneficial bacteria while suppressing pathogenic ones; these combined actions contribute to its therapeutic potential in managing and alleviating the symptoms of IBD. This will enable future research endeavors and expedite the translation of saffron-based interventions into clinical practice as a valuable adjunctive therapy or a potential alternative to conventional treatments, thereby enhancing the quality of life for individuals suffering from inflammatory diseases including IBD.
Assuntos
Anti-Inflamatórios , Crocus , Doenças Inflamatórias Intestinais , Crocus/química , Humanos , Doenças Inflamatórias Intestinais/tratamento farmacológico , Anti-Inflamatórios/farmacologia , Anti-Inflamatórios/uso terapêutico , Microbioma Gastrointestinal/efeitos dos fármacos , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/uso terapêutico , Antioxidantes/uso terapêutico , Antioxidantes/farmacologia , Animais , Estresse Oxidativo/efeitos dos fármacos , Doença de Crohn/tratamento farmacológico , Citocinas/metabolismo , FitoterapiaRESUMO
Saffron, the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L., is a renowned spice and medicinal herb. During its production, a significant amount of floral residues, rich in bioactive compounds, are discarded as agricultural by-products. This study presents a novel approach to the sustainable utilization of these stigmaless floral residues (FRC) by optimizing the extraction and purification of their flavonoids, analyzing their chemical composition, and evaluating their effect on glucose uptake. The extraction of flavonoids from FRC was optimized using single-factor experiments and response surface methodology. The optimal conditions for extraction were an ethanol concentration of 67.7%, a temperature of 67.6 °C, a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:30, an extraction time of 3 h, and two extractions. The crude extract obtained was then purified using macroporous resin HPD100, selected after comparing the adsorption and desorption characteristics of six different resins. The optimal purification parameters were an adsorption concentration of 40 mg/mL, a loading volume of 7 bed volumes (BV) at a flow rate of 3 BV/h, and 80% ethanol as the eluent with a volume of 4 BV. The resulting flavonoid-enriched extract (FFRC) had an experimental yield of 8.67% ± 0.01 and a flavonoid content of 128.30 ± 4.64 mg/g. The main flavonoids in FFRC were identified as kaempferol glycosides, isorhamnetin glycosides, and quercetin glycosides. Moreover, FFRC significantly stimulated glucose consumption and uptake in C2C12 myotubes, suggesting its potential utility as a natural hypoglycemic agent. This study contributes to the sustainable and value-added utilization of agricultural resources by providing data for the exploitation and application of flavonoids from saffron by-products.
Assuntos
Crocus , Flavonoides , Flores , Glucose , Extratos Vegetais , Crocus/química , Flavonoides/isolamento & purificação , Flavonoides/química , Flavonoides/farmacologia , Glucose/metabolismo , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/química , Flores/química , Camundongos , Animais , Linhagem CelularRESUMO
Introduction-Background: Data from experimental trials show that Crocus sativus L. (saffron) is considered to improve glycemia, lipid profile, and blood pressure and reduce oxidative stress. So far, clinical trials have been conducted in individuals with metabolic syndrome and Diabetes Mellitus type 2 (DMT-2). The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of saffron in individuals with Diabetes Mellitus type 1 (DMT-1). PATIENTS-METHODS: 61 individuals with DMT-1, mean age 48 years old (48.3 ± 14.6), 26 females (42.6%) were randomized to receive a new oral supplement in sachets containing probiotics, prebiotics, magnesium, and Crocus sativus L. extract or placebo containing probiotics, prebiotics and magnesium daily for 6 months. Glycemic control was assessed with a continuous glucose monitoring system and laboratory measurement of HbA1c and lipid profile was also examined. Blood pressure at baseline and end of intervention was also measured. Individuals were either on a continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion with an insulin pump or in multiple daily injection regimens. Diabetes distress and satiety were assessed through a questionnaire and body composition was assessed with bioelectrical impedance. RESULTS: At the end of the intervention, the two groups differed significantly only in serum triglycerides (p = 0.049). After 6 months of treatment, a significant reduction in the active group was observed in glycated hemoglobin (p = 0.046) and serum triglycerides (p = 0.021) compared to baseline. The other primary endpoints (glycemic control, lipid profile, blood pressure) did not differ within the groups from baseline to end of intervention, and there was no significant difference between the two groups. Diabetes distress score improved significantly only in the active group (p = 0.044), suggesting an overall improvement in diabetes disease burden in these individuals but that was not significant enough between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: A probiotic supplement with saffron extract improves serum triglycerides in well-controlled people with DMT-1 and may potentially be a valuable adjunct for enhancing glycemic control.
Assuntos
Crocus , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 1 , Suplementos Nutricionais , Extratos Vegetais , Humanos , Crocus/química , Feminino , Extratos Vegetais/farmacologia , Extratos Vegetais/administração & dosagem , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 1/tratamento farmacológico , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 1/sangue , Método Duplo-Cego , Adulto , Glicemia/efeitos dos fármacos , Glicemia/metabolismo , Hemoglobinas Glicadas/metabolismo , Pressão Sanguínea/efeitos dos fármacos , Controle Glicêmico/métodos , Probióticos/administração & dosagem , Lipídeos/sangueRESUMO
Trypsin is a serine protease, an important digestive enzyme that digests the proteins in the small intestine. In the present study, we have investigated the interaction of safranal, a major saffron metabolite, with trypsin using spectroscopic and molecular docking analyses. Fluorescence emission spectra of trypsin were largely affected by the inner filter effect from safranal; that's why these were corrected using the standard procedure. The corrected fluorescence spectra have shown that the safranal quenched the intrinsic fluorescence of trypsin with a blue shift in the wavelength of emission maximum, which revealed that the microenvironment of the fluorophore became more hydrophobic. There was approximately 1: 1 fair binding between them, which increased with a rise in temperature. The interaction was favored, principally, by hydrophobic forces, and there was an efficient energy transfer from the fluorophore to the safranal. Synchronous fluorescence spectra suggested that the tryptophan residues were the major ones taking part in the fluorescence quenching of trypsin. Safranal also influenced the secondary structure of trypsin and caused partial unfolding. Molecular Docking and the Molecular Dynamics simulation of the free and complexed trypsin was also carried out. Safranal formed a stable, non-covalent complex within the S2'-S5' subsite. Moreover, two nearby tyrosine residues (Tyr39 and Tyr151) stabilized safranal through π-π interactions. Additionally, the presence of safranal led to changes in the protein flexibility and compactness, which could indicate changes in the surrounding of tryptophan residues, impacting their fluorescence. Furthermore, a loss in compactness is in line with the partial unfolding observed experimentally. Thus, both experimental and computational studies were in good agreement with each other.
Assuntos
Crocus , Cicloexenos , Simulação de Acoplamento Molecular , Simulação de Dinâmica Molecular , Terpenos , Tripsina , Tripsina/química , Tripsina/metabolismo , Crocus/química , Cicloexenos/química , Cicloexenos/metabolismo , Terpenos/química , Terpenos/metabolismo , Ligação Proteica , Interações Hidrofóbicas e Hidrofílicas , Espectrometria de FluorescênciaRESUMO
Saffron (Crocus sativus) floral by-products are a source of phenolic compounds that can be recovered and used in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic industries. This study aimed to evaluate the phenolic compounds' extraction using green extraction techniques (GETs) in saffron floral by-products and to explore the influence of selected extraction techniques on the phytochemical composition of the extracts. Specifically, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), subcritical water extraction (SWE), and deep eutectic solvents extraction (DESE) were used. Phenolic compounds were identified with (HR) LC-ESI-QTOF MS/MS analysis, and the quantitative analysis was performed with HPLC-PDA. Concerning the extraction techniques, UAE showed the highest amount for both anthocyanins and flavonoids with 50:50% v/v ethanol/water as solvent (93.43 ± 4.67 mg/g of dry plant, dp). Among SWE, extraction with 96% ethanol and t = 125 °C gave the best quantitative results. The 16 different solvent mixtures used for the DESE showed the highest amount of flavonoids (110.95 ± 5.55-73.25 ± 3.66 mg/g dp), while anthocyanins were better extracted with choline chloride:butane-1,4-diol (16.0 ± 0.80 mg/g dp). Consequently, GETs can be employed to extract the bioactive compounds from saffron floral by-products, implementing recycling and reduction of waste and fitting into the broader circular economy discussion.
Assuntos
Crocus , Flores , Fenóis , Extratos Vegetais , Água , Crocus/química , Fenóis/química , Fenóis/isolamento & purificação , Fenóis/análise , Extratos Vegetais/química , Água/química , Flores/química , Solventes Eutéticos Profundos/química , Solventes/química , Cromatografia Líquida de Alta Pressão/métodos , Flavonoides/isolamento & purificação , Flavonoides/química , Flavonoides/análise , Antocianinas/isolamento & purificação , Antocianinas/química , Antocianinas/análise , Espectrometria de Massas em Tandem , Ondas UltrassônicasRESUMO
So far, compliance with ISO 3632 standard specifications for top-quality saffron guarantees good agricultural and post-harvest production practices. Tracking early-stage oxidation remains challenging. Our study aims to address this issue by exploring the visible, fluorescence, and near-infrared spectra of category I saffron. Using a multi-spectral sensor, we tested fresh and artificially aged saffron in powder form. High autofluorescence intensities at 600-700 nm allowed calibration for the 'content of aged saffron'. Samples with minimum coloring strength (200-220 units) were classified as 70% aged, while those exceeding maximum aroma strength (50 units) as 100% aged. Consistent patterns across origin, age, and processing history indicated potential for objectively assessing early-oxidation markers. Further analyses uncovered multiple contributing fluorophores, including cis-apocarotenoids, correlated with FTIR-based aging markers. Our findings underscore that sensing autofluorescence of traded saffron presents an innovative quality diagnostic approach, paving new research pathways for assessing the remaining shelf-life along its supply chain.
Assuntos
Crocus , Crocus/química , Crocus/metabolismo , Fluorescência , Oxirredução , Armazenamento de Alimentos , Espectrometria de Fluorescência , Espectroscopia de Infravermelho com Transformada de FourierRESUMO
Crocus sativus L. is a perennial crop for its valuable active compounds. Plant-associated microbes impact on the quality and efficacy of medicinal herbs by promoting bioactive components accumulation. However, how microbes influence the accumulation of bioactive components in saffron have not been well studied. Here, the microbiome in C. sativus derived from 3 core production areas were deciphered by 16S rDNA sequencing and the relationship between endophytes and bioactive ingredients were further investigated. The main results are as follows: (1) Both Comamonadaceae and Burkholderiaceae were positively correlated with the content of bioactive components in the stigmas. (2) The synthesis of crocin was positively correlated with Xanthomonadaceae, negatively correlated with Lachnospiraceae and Prevotellaceae. Therefore, further investigation is required to determine whether Xanthomonadaceae plays an unknown function in the synthesis of crocin. These findings provide guidelines for disentangling the function of endophytes in the production of bioactive ingredients and thus for microbe-mediated breeding.
Assuntos
Bactérias , Carotenoides , Crocus , Endófitos , Microbiota , Crocus/química , Crocus/microbiologia , Crocus/metabolismo , Bactérias/genética , Bactérias/classificação , Bactérias/metabolismo , Bactérias/isolamento & purificação , Endófitos/metabolismo , Endófitos/genética , Endófitos/química , Endófitos/isolamento & purificação , Carotenoides/metabolismo , Extratos Vegetais/química , Extratos Vegetais/metabolismoRESUMO
Crocus sativus L. is a both medicinal and food bulbous flower whose qualities are geographically characterized. However, identification involving different places of origin of such substances is currently limited to single-omics mediated content analysis. Integrated metabolomics and proteomics, 840 saffron samples from six countries (Spain, Greece, Iran, China, Japan, and India) were analyzed using the QuEChERS extraction method. A total of 77 differential metabolites and 14 differential proteins were identified. The limits of detection of the method were 1.33 to 8.33 µg kg-1, and the recoveries were 85.56% to 105.18%. Using homology modeling and molecular docking, the Gln84, Lys195, Val182 and Pro184 sites of Crocetin glucosyltransferase 2 were found to be the targets of crocetin binding. By multivariate statistical analysis (PCA and PLS-DA), different saffron samples were clearly distinguished. The results provided the basis for the selection and identification of high quality saffron from different producing areas.
Assuntos
Carotenoides , Crocus , Simulação de Acoplamento Molecular , Vitamina A , Crocus/química , Crocus/metabolismo , Carotenoides/metabolismo , Carotenoides/química , Vitamina A/análogos & derivados , Vitamina A/metabolismo , Glucosiltransferases/metabolismo , Glucosiltransferases/química , Biotransformação , Proteínas de Plantas/metabolismo , Proteínas de Plantas/química , Flores/química , Flores/metabolismoRESUMO
Crocin, a natural bioactive compound derived from saffron (Crocus sativus) and other Crocus genera, has gained significant attention recently due to its potential therapeutic properties. The multifaceted nature of crocin's biological effects has piqued the interest of researchers and health enthusiasts, prompting further investigations into its mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications. This review article comprehensively explores the emerging evidence supporting crocin's role as a promising ally in protecting against metabolic disorders. The review covers the molecular mechanisms underlying crocin's beneficial effects and highlights its potential applications in preventing and treating diverse pathological conditions. Understanding the mechanisms through which crocin exerts its protective effects could advance scientific knowledge and offer potential avenues for developing novel therapeutic interventions. As we uncover the potential of crocin as a valuable ally in the fight against disorders, it becomes evident that nature's palette holds remarkable solutions for enhancing our health.
Assuntos
Carotenoides , Carotenoides/farmacologia , Carotenoides/uso terapêutico , Humanos , Animais , Crocus/química , Doenças Metabólicas/tratamento farmacológicoRESUMO
Elements such as As, Cd, Cr and Pb are classified as contaminants of major concern for public health, due to their high degree of toxicity. Saffron is an important medicinal herbal spice used in variety of food items, pharmaceutical medicines, and cosmetics. Presence of heavy metals in saffron will increase the health risk to consumers. Also, authentication of geographical origin of saffron is an issue of utmost importance for global trading. The present study is focused on investigation of elemental contaminants in saffron and elemental composition of saffron from India (Jammu and Kashmir); Iran and Afghanistan are also explored for geographical discrimination, using Chemometrics. In total, 29 elements including Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Sb, Se, Si, Sr, Ti, Tl, V and Zn were analyzed using ICP-OES. Toxic elemental contaminants including As, Cd, Pb were found below the maximum permissible limit. Using PCA, elements B, Ni, Ba, Fe, V, Si, Al, Ti, K, Na, Sr, and Zn were found as significant discriminators of geographical origin. Elemental composition of saffron may be utilized, to prevent cases of falsified geographical origin in trade.