Carotenogénesis y pigmentos en Cucurbita spp

Los carotenoides son pigmentos orgánicos que el organismo no puede sintetizar y deben ser suministrados en la dieta humana. Este artículo de revisión tiene por objetivo abordar la ruta carotenogénica y los pigmentos predominantes en la pulpa de cucurbitáceas, siendo una de las hortalizas con mayor contenido de carotenoides, de tonalidades amarillo y naranja. Se recopiló literatura relevante sobre la temática proveniente de libros y de artículos científicos, identificando que el género Cucurbita, por ser de naturaleza alógama, expresa alta variabilidad fenotípica y genotípica, que es afectada por el ambiente y, ello, supone alta variabilidad en la composición de carotenoides del fruto, tanto cuantitativa como cualitativamente. Los carotenoides son los responsables de dar color característico a las flores y a los frutos; los apocarotenoides son conocidos por dar aromas, fragancias y sabores. El almacenamiento y la biosíntesis de los carotenoides se genera en los plastidios, estos pigmentos se pueden sintetizar por la ruta del metileritritol difosfato (MEP) hasta licopeno, donde se bifurca a α-caroteno y ß-caroteno y, posteriormente, mediante hidroxilaciones, se generan las xantofilas. Su importancia en la acumulación de carotenoides en frutos radica en las múltiples funciones y beneficios en plantas, animales y humanos, como fotoreceptores y fotoprotectores de luz, colorantes agroindustriales, antioxidantes, reducción de enfermedades crónicas, precursores de vitamina A, entre otros beneficios, cabe destacar el alto contenido de carotenos totales en cucurbitáceas encontrándose en Cucurbita moschata más de 600 µg/g en genotipos mejorados.

Carotenoids are organic pigments that the body cannot synthesize and must be supplied in the human diet. This review article aims to approach the carotenogenic route and the predominant pigments in the fruits of Cucurbits, as this is one of the vegetables with the highest content of carotenoids of yellow and orange tones. Relevant literature on the subject was collected from scientific books and articles, identifying that the genus Cucurbita, being cross-pollinated in nature, expresses high phenotypic and genotypic variability, which is affected by the environment and, this implies high variability in the carotenoid composition of the fruit, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Carotenoids are responsible for giving characteristic color to flowers and fruits, apocarotenoids are known to give aromas, fragrances, and flavors. The biosynthesis and storage of carotenoids are generated in the plastids, the pathway of methylerythritol diphosphate (MEP) to lycopene can synthesize these pigments where it bifurcates to α-carotene and ß-carotene and later, by hydroxylations, xanthophylls are generated. Its importance in the accumulation of carotenoids in fruits lies in the multiple functions and benefits in plants, animals, and humans as photoreceptors and photoprotectors of light, agroindustrial colorants, antioxidants, reduction of chronic diseases, precursors of vitamin A, among other benefits. Highlighting the high content of total carotenes in Cucurbits, with more than 600 µg / g in Cucurbita moschata found in improved genotypes.

Can pumpkin save us of doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity? / ¿Puede la calabaza salvarnos de la cardiotoxicidad inducida por doxorrubicina?

SUMMARY: Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the drugs necessary for the treatment of the 10 most common types of cancer. The leading adverse effect limiting clinical use of DOX is cardiotoxicity. Given that literature data indicate a protective role of carotenoids in doxorubicin-induced toxicity, in our study we compared the cardioprotective effect of a mixture of pumpkin carotenoids and a commercially available antioxidant preparation. Animals were distributed in 8 groups (Control - S; NADES - N; Doxorubicin - Dox; Carotenoids - Car; CardiofortIN - CF; NADES-Doxorubicin - N-Dox; Carotenoids-Doxorubicin - Car-Dox; CardiofortIN-Doxorubicin - CF-Dox). Histological sections were stained with the hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and analyzed for the presence of myocardial damage by doxorubicin damage score (DDS). From the heart tissue homogenate were determined the intensity of lipid peroxidation and specific antioxidative enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase; catalase; glutathione S-transferase; glutathione peroxidase). In Car-DOX and CF-DOX groups, lipid peroxidation is significantly reduced compared to DOX group. Pretreatment of animals with carotenoids and in lesser extent with CardiofortIN led to higher antioxidative enzymes activity, compared to DOX group. Pretreated with carotenoids, only 50 % of animals had some degree of myocardial damage, and no animals had extensive damage. CardiofortIN pretreatment showed less protective effect. Pretreatment with carotenoid extract, reduced DDS significantly, so Car-DOX group has changes equivalent to mild myocardial damage. Although CardiofortIN pretreatment lowered DDS score values, animals still had moderate level of myocardium damage. This in vivo study and its findings indicate that carotenoids extracted from pumpkin may be a promising cardioprotective agent against doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity, at least in part mediated through inhibition of DOX-induced oxidative stress.

La doxorrubicina (DOX) es uno de los fármacos necesarios para el tratamiento de los 10 tipos más comunes de cáncer. El principal efecto adverso que limita el uso clínico de DOX es la cardiotoxicidad. Debido a que los datos de la literatura indican un papel protector de los carotenoides en la toxicidad inducida por doxorrubicina, en nuestro estudio comparamos el efecto cardioprotector de una mezcla de carotenoides de calabaza y una preparación antioxidante disponible comercialmente. Los animales se distribuyeron en 8 grupos (Control - S; NADES - N; Doxorrubicina - Dox; Carotenoides - Car; CardiofortIN - CF; NADES-Doxorrubicina - N-Dox; Carotenoides-Doxorrubicina - Car-Dox; CardiofortIN- Doxorrubicina - CF-Dox). Las secciones histológicas se tiñeron con hematoxilina-eosina (HE) y se analizaron para detectar la presencia de daño miocárdico mediante la puntuación de daño por doxorrubicina (DDS). A partir del homogeneizado de tejido cardíaco se determinó la intensidad de la peroxidación lipídica y la actividad enzimática antioxidante específica (superóxido dismutasa, catalasa, glutatión S-transferasa, glutatión peroxidasa). En los grupos Car-DOX y CF-DOX, la peroxidación lipídica se redujo significativamente en comparación con el grupo DOX. El pre tratamiento de los animales con carotenoides y, en menor medida, con CardiofortlN condujo a una mayor actividad de las enzimas antioxidantes, en comparación con el grupo DOX. Al ser pre tratados con carotenoides, solo el 50 % de los animales tenían algún grado de daño miocárdico y ningún animal tenía daño extenso. El pre tratamiento con CardiofortIN mostró un efecto protector menor. El pre tratamiento con extracto de carotenoides redujo significativamente el DDS, por lo que el grupo Car-DOX mostró cambios equivalentes a un daño miocárdico leve. Aunque el pre tratamiento con CardiofortIN redujo los valores de la puntuación DDS, los animales aún tenían un nivel moderado de daño al miocardio. Este estudio in vivo y sus hallazgos indican que los carotenoides extraídos de la calabaza pueden ser un agente cardioprotector prometedor contra la cardiotoxicidad inducida por doxorrubicina, al menos en parte mediada por la inhibición del estrés oxidativo inducido por DOX.

Un raro caso de dilución pastel en Trogon elegans (Aves: Trogonidae) en la Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo, México / A rare case of pastel dilution in Trogon elegans (Aves: Trogonidae) from Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo, Mexico

Resumen Las coloraciones anormales en aves son raras y poco documentadas. Se han relacionado a problemas congénitos y con factores externos, consideradas como un indicador ambiental que da evidencia y pistas sobre la calidad de las poblaciones a nivel genético. Identificamos un caso de anormalidad pigmentaria en un trogón elegante (Trogon elegans (Gould, 1834)) en el Área Natural Protegida Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo, México. Determinamos el tipo como dilución pastel, en esta mutación ambas melaninas se ven fuertemente afectadas, donde carecía de melanina, pero mantuvo los carotenoides con el rojo de las plumas ventrales. Discutimos posibles explicaciones para esta coloración anormal y asumimos que fueron alteraciones genéticas o de desarrollo del individuo las que causaron el decolorado del plumaje.

Abstract The bird abnormal colorations are rare and poorly documented. They had been related to congenital problems and external factors, considered as an ambiental indicator that gives evidence and clues about the quality of the populations at a genetic level. We identified a pigmentary abnormalitycase on a Elegant Trogon (Trogon elegans (Gould, 1834)) in the natural protected area "Reserva de la Biosfera El Cielo", Mexico. We determined the type as pastel dilution, on this mutation both melanin are greatly affected, where it lacked melanin, but it kept the carotenoids with the rd color on the ventral feathers. We discuss posible explanations for this abnormal coloration and asume that it was due to genetic or developmental alterations of the individual that caused the bleaching of the plumage.

[Influence of dietary carotenoids on biomarkers of cardiometabolic risk in peri- and post-menopausal women]. / Influencia de los carotenoides sobre los marcadores de riesgo cardiometabólico en mujeres peri y posmenopáusicas.

INTRODUCTION: Background: peri- and post-menopausal women exhibit a high tendency towards obesity and visceral fat deposition, which increases cardiometabolic risk. Objective: to evaluate through a prospective nutritional study the effect of carotenoid consumption on cardiometabolic risk biomarkers in peri- and post-menopausal women. Material and methods: twelve peri- and post-menopausal women without previous symptoms of cardiovascular disease, but with some cardiometabolic risk factor, were recruited. Their diet was supplemented during 4 weeks with orange-carrot juice, tomato juice, and boiled spinach, providing 415 mg of total carotenoids/week (carotenes, cryptoxanthin, lycopene, and lutein + zeaxanthin). At the beginning (TI) and at the end (TF) of the intervention period blood samples were drawn to measure biochemical parameters, oxidative stress, inflammation and endothelial function biomarkers, and plasma carotenoid levels. Results: at TF a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in LDL-cholesterol and atherogenic index, and an increase in HDL-cholesterol were observed. Plasma carotenoids increased significantly (p < 0.05) from 0.56 µg/mL at TI to 1.22 µg/mL at TF. Concurrently, a shift in oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers was detected, with a decrease in plasma C-reactive protein and malonaldehyde levels, and an increase in adiponectin. However, endothelial dysfunction biomarkers (sVCAM and sICAM) and total antioxidant capacity remained unchanged. Conclusions: dietary supplementation with carotenoids leads to an increase in plasma carotenoids, a decrease in atherogenic dyslipidemia, and an improvement in oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers, which indicates a reduction in cardiometabolic risk.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: durante la menopausia hay una mayor tendencia a la obesidad y el depósito de grasa visceral, aumentando el riesgo cardiometabólico. Objetivos: evaluar mediante un estudio de intervención el efecto del consumo de carotenoides sobre los biomarcadores relacionados con el riesgo cardiometabólico en mujeres peri y posmenopáusicas. Métodos: se seleccionaron 12 mujeres peri y posmenopáusicas, sin antecedentes de enfermedad cardiovascular pero con algún factor de riesgo cardiometabólico. Durante 4 semanas se suplementó su dieta con zumo de naranja-zanahoria, zumo de tomate y espinacas cocidas, proporcionando una ingesta de 415 mg de carotenoides totales a la semana (carotenos, criptoxantina, licopeno y luteína + zeaxantina). En el momento inicial (TI) y en el final (TF) se midieron los parámetros antropométricos y se analizaron los parámetros bioquímicos, los carotenoides plasmáticos y los biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo, de inflamación y de función endotelial. Resultados: en el TF se observaron cambios significativos, disminuyendo el colesterol unido a LDL y el índice aterogénico, y aumentando el colesterol-HDL. Los carotenoides plasmáticos se incrementaron significativamente (p < 0,05) de 0,56 µg/ml en el TI hasta 1,22 µg/ml en el TF. Paralelamente se observaron cambios significativos (p < 0,05) en los biomarcadores de estrés oxidativo e inflamación, disminuyendo la proteína C-reactiva y el malonaldehído, y aumentando la adiponectina. Por el contrario, los biomarcadores de daño endotelial (sVCAM y sICAM) y la capacidad antioxidante (ORAC) no mostraron cambios tras la intervención. Conclusiones: el consumo de carotenoides aumenta los niveles plasmáticos de carotenoides y disminuye la dislipemia aterogénica, y mejora los biomarcadores de inflamación y el estrés oxidativo, lo que está relacionado con una disminución del riesgo cardiometabólico.

Elaboration of food products with biofortified sweet potatoes: Characterization and sensory acceptability

ABSTRACT Beauregard sweet potato is an orange color crop rich in β-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. β-carotene improve immunity and decrease of incidence of degenerative diseases. The objective of this work was to introduce sweet potato in the diet through of some food products, such as bread, cake and sweets. The effect of processing on the chemical composition, as well as the quantification of phenols and total carotenoids, antioxidant activity, and sensory acceptability were evaluated. Cakes and coconut sweets presented higher levels of carotenoids. Higher phenolic and antioxidant activity were verified in cocoa sweets. All foods had good acceptability: 86% for bread, 83.3% for cake and 84,4%, and 86% for coconut and cocoa sweets, respectively. Servings of 95g of roasted sweet potato, 330g of bread, 182g of cake, 187g of coconut sweet and 391g end of cocoa sweet, would provide the recommended daily intake of vitamin A for children 10 years and older. It was concluded that the elaboration of foods containing sweet potato is a viable alternative to inserting biofortified foods into the human diet.

RESUMEN Los camote Beauregard son genotipos de color naranja, ricos en β-caroteno, precursores de la vitamina A. El β-caroteno ayuda a mejorar la inmunidad y reducir el riesgo de enfermedades degenerativas. El objetivo del trabajo fue introducir el camote en la dieta a través del pan, pasteles y dulces tipo postre. Se evaluó el efecto del procesamiento sobre la composición química, así como la cuantificación de fenoles y carotenoides totales, actividad antioxidante y aceptabilidad sensorial. Las tortas y caramelos de coco mostraron mayores niveles de carotenoides y cacao, mayor actividad fenólica y antioxidante. Se confirmó una buena aceptabilidad, en la cual el pan presentó 86%, el torta 83,3%, y los dulces tipo postre de coco y de cacao 84,4% y 86% respectivamente. Las porciones de 95 g de batatas al horno, 330 g de pan, 182 g de torta, 187 g y 391 g de dulce de coco y dulce de cacao respectivamente, proporcionarían la ingesta diaria recomendada de vitamina A para niños de 10 años en adelante. Se concluyó que la preparación de alimentos que contienen batatas es una alternativa viable a la inclusión de alimentos biofortificados en la dieta humana.

Obtención de un colorante a partir de corteza de maracuyá con el uso de técnicas convencionales de extracción / Obtaining a dye from passion fruit cortex with the use of conventional extraction techniques

RESUMEN El maracuyá es un fruto tropical que se cultiva primordialmente para la obtención de pulpa, siendo la corteza su principal subproducto que carece, en la actualidad, de interés industrial; sin embargo, con el fin de diversificar los derivados provenientes de la producción de maracuyá, se ha demostrado que la corteza contiene carotenoides, dentro de los que se destaca el β-caroteno y la luteína, que podrían ser utilizados en alimentos, debido a su poder antioxidante e, incluso, como colorante natural alternativo. Por lo anterior, el objetivo de este trabajo fue obtener un extracto rico en carotenoides a partir de su corteza; para ello, se evaluó la extracción con etanol, mediante tres técnicas: inmersión, baño termostático y soxhlet. El mayor rendimiento, se obtuvo con el método soxhlet; para esta técnica, se estudió el efecto de la concentración de etanol (entre 80% y 90% v/v), la proporción solvente-materia prima (con relaciones entre 40:1 y 50:1) y el tiempo (definido entre 90 y 150 minutos). Los resultados, se analizaron mediante modelo de superficie de respuesta, obteniendo el mayor rendimiento con etanol al 90%, utilizando 50mL/g corteza y 150 minutos de operación. A estas condiciones, el rendimiento de extracción fue de 2208,53µg β-caroteno/100g muestra. Por último, se determinó la diferencia de color entre el extracto óptimo y una solución de tartrazina, evidenciando una diferencia de color de 3,07 unidades cieLAB, lo cual, muestra que el producto de lixiviación de la corteza de maracuyá tiene potencial para su uso como aditivo alimentario, reemplazando colorantes sintéticos, como la tartrazina.

ABSTRACT Passion fruit is a tropical fruit that is usually cultivated to obtain pulp, being the cortex its main not exploited by-product, because of the actual absence of industrial interest. However, with the aim of diversifying the derivates from the production of passion fruit products, it has been demonstrated that the cortex contains carotenoids, such as β-carotene and lutein; which could be used in food due to its antioxidant capacity, or even like a food colorant. Therefore, the objective of this work was to obtain a carotenoid-rich extract from its cortex; for this, three techniques of extraction with ethanol were evaluated, by immersion, thermostatic bath and Soxhlet. Being the last technique that one with which the best yield was obtained. With the highest yield technique, the following factors were evaluated: ethanol concentration on 80% and 90% v/v, solvent-raw material ratio on 40:1 and 50:1 and time on 90 and 150min. The best yield was obtaining to 90% ethanol, 50mL solvent/g raw material and 150min, for an extraction yield of 2208.53µg β-caroten/100 g sample. Finally, the color difference between the optimal extract and a tartrazine solution was determined, evidencing a color difference of 3.07cieLAB units; this shows that the passion fruit leaching product has the potential to be used as a food additive, replacing synthetic dyes such as tartrazine.

Mejoramiento de la extracción de carotenoides y capsaicinoides del ají nativo (Capsicum baccatum), asistido con enzimas celulolíticas

Se realizó la producción de celulasas de Aspergillus niger ATCC 10864 mediante fermentación en biopelículas (FB). Los extractos de celulasas se usaron para hidrolizar la celulosa del fruto de Capsicum baccatum "ají escabeche", para ello los frutos de ají fueron deshidratados y molidos a un tamaño de partícula menor a 0.425 mm. Luego se mezcló ají seco: celulasas y se hidrolizó en condiciones de agitación, tiempo y temperatura controlada. Se filtró el medio y se separó el sobrenadante de la torta de ají hidrolizado, este último se secó a 10% de humedad y se lixivió con una mezcla de hexano:acetona:etanol para extraer los carotenoides y capsaicinoides, los cuales fueron cuantificados por HPLC. El rendimiento de oleorresina extraída era cinco veces mayor comparado al método convencional; así mismo en los tratamientos T2 y T5, se logró mayor extracción de carotenoides y capsaicinoides totales, respectivamente, comparado a los otros tratamientos. La acción hidrolítica de las celulasas, sobre las estructuras moleculares de la celulosa del fruto ají escabeche, favorecieron mayor liberación de los carotenoides y capsaicinoides totales comparado a los métodos convencionales.

The production of cellulases of Aspergillus niger ATCC 10864 was carried out by fermentation in biofilms (FB). The extracts of cellulases were used to hydrolyze the cellulose of Capsicum baccatum "escabeche chili" fruit, for this the chili fruits were dehydrated and ground to a particle size < 0.045 mm. Then dry chili: cellulase was mixed and hydrolyzed under conditions of agitation, controlled time and temperature. The medium was filtered and the supernatant of the hydrolyzed chili cake was separated, the latter was dried at 10% humidity and leached with a mixture of hexane:acetone:ethanol to extract the carotenoids and capsaicinoids, which were quantified by HPLC. The extraction yield of oleoresin was five times higher compared to the conventional method; likewise in the T8 and T5 treatments, greater extraction of carotenoids and total capsaicinoids was achieved compared to the other treatments. The hydrolytic action of the cellulases, on the molecular structures of the cellulose of the red drop chili fruit, favored greater release of the carotenoids and total capsaicinoids compared to conventional methods.

Fatty acid profile and physicochemical characterization of buriti oil during storage / Perfil de ácido graxo e qualidade físico-química do óleo de buriti sob armazenamento

ABSTRACT: The objective of this research was to evaluate the fatty acid profile and physicochemical properties of buriti oil under storage conditions. The oil was analyzed for 70 days by evaluating the physicochemical characteristics of acidity index, refractive index, bulk density, absolute viscosity, peroxide index, lipid oxidation by TBARS method, color parameters (L *, a *, b *, C * e h *) and carotenoid profile (α-carotene and β-carotene) for every 10 days of storage, in addition to the β-carotene/linoleic acid system and fatty acid profile. Variables remained stable over the analysis periods and the total carotenoids ranged from 836.91 to 1036.96 µg/g. Oleic acid accounted for the highest content among fatty acids, with a value of 78.06 g/100 g of fatty acids and a ω6/ω3 ratio of 1.95. Buriti oil has a nutritional quality and a fatty acid profile that justifies recommendations for its consumption, suggesting the need for regulatory bodies to draw up a standardized protocol for extracting oil from the fruit pulp.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar o perfil de ácido graxo e a qualidade físico-química do óleo de buriti em condições de armazenamento. O óleo foi analisado durante 70 dias avaliando as características físico-química índice de acidez, índice de refração, densidade aparente, viscosidade absoluta, índice de peróxidos, oxidação lipídica pelo método de TBARS, parâmetros de cor (L*, a*, b*, C* e h*) e carotenoides (α-caroteno e β-caroteno) a cada 10 dias de armazenamento, além do sistema β-caroteno/ácido linoléico e perfil de ácidos graxos. As variáveis se mantiveram estáveis durante os períodos de análises e os carotenoides totais variaram entre 836,91 a 1036,96 µg/g. O ácido graxo com maior teor foi o ácido oleico com valor de 78,06 g/100 g de ácidos graxos e relação ω6/ω3 de 1,95. O óleo de buriti apresenta qualidade nutricional que justifica o estímulo ao consumo devido aos ácidos graxos que apresenta, necessitando dos órgãos reguladores a elaboração de um protocolo de extração do óleo da polpa do fruto.

Meloidogyne javanica parasitism on the vegetative growth and nutritional quality of carrots / Parasitismo de Meloidogyne javanica no crescimento vegetativo e na qualidade nutricional de cenouras

ABSTRACT: Meloidogyne javanica is a plant-parasitic nematode that infects a wide range of vegetables. Its negative effects on crop yield and value are well documented. However, few studies have investigated the impact of the parasite on the nutritional value of vegetables. This study aimed to assess the effect of M. javanica parasitism on the vegetative characteristics, nematological parameters, chemistry composition and antioxidant activity of carrots. Seedlings were inoculated with 0 (control), 1000, 2500, or 5000 eggs and eventual second-stage juveniles (J2) of M. javanica. At 60 days after inoculation, plants were harvested and evaluated. Plants inoculated with 2500 eggs and J2 of M. javanica had higher root and tuber fresh weight than the control. Gall number increased with increasing inoculum density. The number of nematodes in the roots increased until 3000 specimens, decreasing thereafter. Proximate analysis revealed that plants inoculated with 1000 eggs and J2 of M. javanica or more had higher protein content in roots. In contrast, inoculation with 1775 nematodes or more resulted in a decrease in carotenoid content. There was no effect of inoculation on total phenolic content or antioxidant activity. Although, M. javanica infection did not have a marked impact on the nutritional quality of carrots, gall formation resulted in deformed roots of low commercial value.

RESUMO: Meloidogyne javanica é um nematoide parasita de plantas que infecta uma grande variedade de vegetais. Seus efeitos negativos sobre o rendimento e o valor das culturas estão bem documentados. No entanto, poucos estudos investigaram o impacto do parasita no valor nutricional dos vegetais. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito do parasitismo por M. javanica sobre as características vegetativas, parâmetros nematológicos, composição química e atividade antioxidante de cenouras. As plântulas foram inoculadas com 0 (controle), 1000, 2500 ou 5000 ovos e eventuais juvenis (J2) de M. javanica no segundo estágio. Aos 60 dias após a inoculação, as plantas foram colhidas e avaliadas. As plantas inoculadas com 2500 ovos e J2 de M. javanica apresentaram maior peso fresco das raízes e tubérculos que o controle. O número de galhas aumentou com o aumento da densidade do inóculo. Verificou-se aumento do número de nematoides nas raízes até 3000 espécimes, diminuindo posteriormente. A análise imediata revelou que plantas inoculadas com 1000 ovos e J2 de M. javanica ou mais tinham maior teor de proteína nas raízes. Por outro lado, a inoculação com 1775 nematoides ou mais resultou em diminuição no conteúdo de carotenoides. Não houve efeito da inoculação no conteúdo fenólico total ou na atividade antioxidante. Embora a infecção por M. javanica não tenha impactado significativamente a qualidade nutricional das cenouras, a formação de galhas resultou em raízes deformadas e de baixo valor comercial.

Effect of stressful conditions on the carotenogenic activity of a Colombian strain of Dunaliella salina.

The objective was evaluate the carotenogenic activity of Dunaliella salina isolated from the artificial salt flats of municipality of Manaure (Department of La Guajira, Colombia). Two experimental testings were designed, in triplicate, to induce the reversibility of the cell tonality depending on the culture conditions. In the first test (A), to induce the reversibility from green to red tonality in D. salina cells, these were cultured in J/1 medium at a concentration of 4.0 M NaCl, 390 µmol m-2 s-1, 0.50 mM KNO3. In the second test (B), to induce the reversibility from red to green cell tonality, the cultures were maintained in J/1 medium 1 M NaCl, 190 µmol m-2 s-1, 5.0 mM KNO3 and pH 8.2. The population growth was evaluated by cell count and the pigment content was performed by spectrophotometric techniques. It was found that in both tests the culture conditions influenced the population growth and the pigments production of D. salina. There was a significant difference between the mean values of total carotenoids in the test A with 9.67 ±â€¯0.19 µg/ml and second test with 1.54 ±â€¯0.08 µg/ml at a significance level of p < 0.05. It was demonstrated that the culture conditions of test A induce the production of lipophilic antioxidants, among these carotenoids. The knowledge of the stressful conditions for the production of carotenoids from D. salina isolated from artificial saline of Manaure opens a field in implementation of this biotic resource for biotechnological purposes, production of new antibiotics, nutraceuticals and/or biofuels production.

Nutritional quality and functional lipids in the free-range egg yolks of Brazilian family farmers / Calidad alimenticia y lípidos funcionales en las yemas de gallina del campo de agricultores de familias Brasileñas

ABSTRACT Nowadays consumers are more concerned about food quality as well as how food is produced. Moreover, consumer demand for more natural, nutritious, safer to eat, and environmentally sustainable food has drawn attention to alternative breeding systems, such as a free-range system. Hens' eggs represent a rich source of important nutrients, including lipids and carotenoids. A detailed characterization of the nutritional and lipid profile of free-range chicken eggs from family farms was carried out. The chemical composition of the free-range egg yolks confirmed the advantages of this farming system, as a relevant source of unsaturated fatty acids and carotenoids, functional compounds in the human diet. These findings can help improve income generation, food supplementation, and consolidation of the family farming system.

RESUMEN Cada vez más los consumidores se preocupan por la calidad de los alimentos, así como tambien de como ellos son producidos. Además, la demanda de los consumidores por alimentos más naturales, nutritivos, más seguros para el consumo y ambientalmente sostenibles ha llamado la atención a sistemas de cría de alternativa, como el sistema de gallina del campo. Los huevos de gallinas representan una fuente rica de sustancias nutritivas importantes, incluyendo lípidos y carotenoids. Fue realizada una caracterización detallada de los nutrientes y del perfil lipídicos de huevos de gallinas del campo de agricultores familiares. La composición química de yemas de gallinas del campo confirmó las ventajas de este sistema de producción, como una fuente importante compuestos funcionales como ácidos grasos insaturados y carotenoides, en la dieta humana. Además, estos hallados pueden ayudar a mejorar la generación de ingreso, la suplementación de alimentos y la consolidación de sistema de agricultura familiar.

Nutritional composition and acceptance of cake elaborated with beauregard potato biofortified with carotenoids / Composição nutricional e aceitação de bolo elaborado com batata beauregard biofortificada com carotenoides

Beauregard biofortified sweet potato is a tuberous root with a high content of carotenoids whose consumption can bring beneficial effects on human health related to the biological actions of these substances. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the acceptance of cake made with sweet potato biofortified with carotenoids by school children enrolled in a school of the municipal education network of the city of Teresina PI. The sweet cake containing biofortified potato (Beauregard) (PC) was compared with standard sweet wheat flour (WC) cake formulation. The PC and WC products and the Beauregard potato were analyzed for centesimal composition (moisture, ashes, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates) and total carotenoid content. Acceptance of PC was assessed by means of an acceptance test with a hedonic scale of five points applied to 100 children from 08 to 10 years of age. The evaluation of the centesimal composition showed protein content corresponding to 2.1% in WC and 3.57% in PC, and of lipids of 5.16% in WC and 8.95% inPC. Regarding the moisture content, WC presented 32.5% and PC 38.44%. The content of fixed minerals (ash) found in formulations was 1.9% and 1.26%, respectively, in WC and PC. The carotenoid content (µg of ß-carotene.g-1) was significantly higher (p <0.05) in the biofortified potato (3,200.01 ± 0.02) and in the PC formulations (3,666.17 ± 2.55) and WC (3,066.53 ± 1.88) for common sweet potatoes (2.200,23 ± 1.63). In the five-point facial hedonistic acceptance test, the formulation containing biofortified potato (PC) obtained a significantly higher score (p <0.05) (4.24 ± 0.93) when compared to the WC formulation (3.75 ± 1.19). The biofortified potato and the cake containing the biofortified potato presented some characteristics related to the centesimal composition similar to those found in WC and the content of carotenoids in PC larger than those of WC. Because sweet cake is a food product, generally well accepted by children and adults, PC's greateracceptance of WC suggests its promising potential for consumption by the population.

A batata-doce Beauregard biofortificada é uma raiz tuberosa com alto teor de carotenoides, cujo consumo pode trazer efeitos benéficos na saúde humana relacionados com as ações biológicas dessassubstâncias. Os objetivos deste estudo foram avaliar a aceitação de bolo elaborado com batata doce biofortificada com carotenoides por crianças em idade escolar matriculados em uma escola da rede municipal de ensino da cidade de Teresina PI. O bolo doce contendo batata biofortificada (Beauregard) (BB) foi comparado com formulação padrão de bolo doce de farinha de trigo (BT). Os produtos BB e BT e a batata Beauregard foram analisados quanto à composição centesimal (umidade, cinzas, proteínas, lipídeos e carboidratos) e conteúdo de carotenóides totais. A aceitação do BB foi avaliada por meio de teste de aceitação com escala hedônica facial de cinco pontos aplicado em 100 crianças de 08 a 10 anos de idade. A avaliação da composição centesimal mostrou conteúdo protéico correspondendo 2,1% no BT e 3,57% no BB, e de lipídiosde 5,16% no BT e 8,95% no BB. Em relação ao teor de umidade, o BT apresentou 32,5% e BB 38,44%. O teor de minerais fixos (cinzas) encontrado nas formulações foi de 1,9% e 1,26%, respectivamente, no BT e BB. O conteúdo de carotenoides (µ g de ß-caroteno.g-1) foi significativamente maior (p<0,05) na batata biofortificada (3.200,01 ± 0,02) e nas formulações BB (3.666,17 ± 2,55) e BT (3.066,53 ± 1,88) em relação à Figure 1. Acceptance rate of Beauregard potato and wheat cake formulations.. batata doce comum (2.200,00 ± 1,63). No teste de aceitação escala hedonica facial de cinco pontos a formulação contendo batata biofortificada (BB) obteve nota significativamente maior (p<0,05) (4,24± 0,93) quando comparada com a formulação BT (3,75± 1,19). A batata biofortificada e o bolo contendo a batata biofortificada apresentaram algumas características relacionadas à composição centesimal semelhantes àquelas encontradas no BT e conteúdo de carotenoides no BB maiores que os do BT. Por ser o bolo doce um produto alimentício, de modo geral, bem aceito por crianças e adultos, a maior aceitação do BB em relação ao BT sugere seu potencial promissor para consumo pela população.

Estabilidade térmica de pigmentos em óleo de abacate, arroz e azeite de oliva / Thermal stability of pigments in avocado, rice and olive oil

Sabe-se que o aquecimento do óleo pode alterar sua composição, degradando ácidos graxos e compostos minoritários. Assim, objetivou-se avaliar a estabilidade térmica dos pigmentos carotenoides e clorofilas no óleo de abacate produzido nacionalmente, em comparação com óleo de arroz e azeite de oliva após aquecimento a 180 ºC em micro-ondas, por 3, 6, 9 e 12 minutos. Observaram-se diferenças significativas entre as amostras em todos os tempos de análise, tanto para clorofilas quanto para carotenoides. Na avaliação ao longo do tempo de aquecimento somente foi verificada alteração significativa no teor de clorofilas do azeite de oliva, ainda que no óleo de abacate os percentuais de perda tenham sido maiores. Verificou-se que os teores dos pigmentos avaliados foram significativamente maiores no óleo de abacate em relação ao azeite de oliva e o óleo de arroz, mesmo após o aquecimento por 12 minutos. Destaca-se a importância destas informações para estimular o consumo do óleo de abacate.

Nutrients and bioactive compounds of pulp, peel and seed from umbu fruit / Nutrientes e compostos bioativos de polpa, casca e semente de umbu

ABSTRACT: The objective of this research was to evaluate the nutritional composition and bioactive compounds of whole umbu fruit, including pulp, seed and peel, and also of a commercial umbu pulp. Samples of the fractions and of commercial pulp were analyzed for determination of minerals and proximate composition, total phenolic and antioxidant activity. Pulps and peel were also analyzed for vitamin C and carotenoids contents. Commercial pulp presented better nutritional composition than fresh pulp (P<0.05) and the peel presented higher phenolic content and antioxidant activity than seed. Peel also stood out by its vitamin C (79 mg.100 g-1) and total carotenoids (2,751 µg.100 g-1) contents, showing that, as the main barrier of the fruit for its protection, it is a fraction rich in bioactive compounds. The highest dietary fiber and iron contents were observed in umbu seed (P<0.05). Therefore, umbu by-products may be ingredients proper for development of food richer in nutrients and bioactive compounds.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição nutricional e compostos bioativos do umbu, incluindo polpa, semente, casca e uma polpa comercial do fruto. Amostras das frações e da polpa comercial foram analisadas para determinação da composição centesimal e mineral, compostos fenólicos totais e capacidade antioxidante. As polpas e casca também foram analisadas quanto aos teores de vitamina C e carotenoides. A polpa comercial apresentou melhor composição nutricional em comparação com a polpa fresca (P<0,05). A casca do fruto apresentou maior teor de compostos fenólicos e capacidade antioxidante que a semente. A casca também se destacou pelos seus teores de vitamina C (79 mg.100 g-1) e carotenoides totais (2.751 µg.100 g-1), mostrando que, como principal barreira do fruto para sua proteção, é uma fração rica em compostos bioativos. Os maiores teores de fibras e ferro foram observados na semente de umbu (P<0,05). Portanto, os subprodutos do despolpamento do fruto podem ser ingredientes adequados para o desenvolvimento de alimentos mais ricos em nutrientes e compostos bioativos.

Evaluation of Dunaliella salina growth and corresponding ß-carotene production in tubular photobioreactor / Avaliação do crescimento da Dunaliella salina e correspondente produção de ß-caroteno em fotobiorreator tubula

Microalgae, photosynthetic microorganisms, are rich in lipids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, as well as carotenoids, which are antioxidants that may protect human body from various diseases including obesity, cardiovascular disease, vision-related diseases such as macular degeneration and certain types of cancer. These natural pigments have applications in the pharmaceutical (nutraceutical), food (coloring, functional food, and supplements), and cosmetics industries (e.g. sunscreen), as well as in aquaculture (animal feed). The Dunaliella salina microalga can synthesize 10% of dry weight in ß-carotene (orange pigment, pro-vitamin A activity) under high light intensity and nitrogen and phosphorus limitation, among other stress conditions. The first chapter of this thesis presents a review focused on microalgae carotenoids: culture systems, mode of operation, and applications. In this bibliographic survey, the advantages of microalgae cultivation in relation to traditional sources (higher plants) were discussed, as well as a discussion of the main cultivation systems and their importance in cell growth. This review presented a critical analysis of the different operational regimes like batch, fed-batch, semi-continuous and continuous. Relevant information on the most important world producers of microalgae carotenoids were presented. Chapter II presents the development of a modified method of dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) for rapid extraction of ß-carotene from Dunaliella salina cultivated in tubular photobioreactor, with subsequent development of a rapid chromatographic screening method using a C4 column for separation of geometric isomer of ß-carotene. The use of benzene as extraction solvent and water with 50% acetone as dispersant provided the best condition for the extraction of this carotenoid. In HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography), employing mobile phase composed of methanol and water (95:5, v/v), it was possible to detect/quantify ß-carotene at 14 min (retention time). Besides the short analysis time (<20 min), by the miniaturized extraction (< 10 mL organic waste) this method abide by green chemistry analytical principles. It is known that nitrogen, phosphorus, as well as carbon and vitamins are vital elements for the growth of microalgae, also determining the biochemical composition of biomass. In this sense, Chapter III presents the study of the influence of different amounts of sodium nitrate (1N = 75 mg L-1; 1.5N = 112.5 mg L-1, and 3N = 225 mg L-1) and phosphate monobasic dehydrate (1P = 5.65 mg L-1, 1.5P = 8.47 mg L-1, and 3P = 16.95 mg L-1) in seawater-based f/2 medium on the growth of Dunaliella salina and ß-carotene biosynthesis, by continuous process with different replenishment proportions (R = 20% and 80%). Best results of cell productivity were obtained by semicontinuous process (mean values of Px up to 6.7 x 104 cells mL-1 d-1 with medium 1N:1P; R =20%) in comparison with batch process cultivation. Maximum cell density (Xm) obtained in this work was not dependent of R, but the best results were obtained when using medium 1.5N:1.5P (mean values up to 5.6 x 105 cells mL-1 with R =80%) instead of 1N:1P. The content of ß-carotene in the cells, in general, was higher in cells grown in medium 1N:1P (mean yield values up to 57.5 mg g-1 with R =80%) in comparison with medium 1.5N:1.5P. The cultivation of D. salina with media 3N:3P led to a long lag phase, followed by decrease in cell density and cell lysis. The use of a tubular photobioreactor contributed to successfully cultivate this microalga without contamination by protozoa. The cultivation of Dunaliella salina in tubular photobioreactor with the use of 12:12 photoperiod was appropriate, as well as to induce carotenogenesis, in the second stage, by increasing the light intensity and absence of pH control

As microalgas, micro-organismos fotossintetizantes, são ricas em lipídios, ácidos graxos poli-insaturados, carboidratos, proteínas, vitaminas, além de carotenoides que são antioxidantes com potencial de proteger o organismo humano de várias doenças incluindo a obesidade, doenças cardiovasculares, doenças relacionadas à visão como a degeneração macular e certos tipos de câncer, entre outras. Esses pigmentos naturais têm aplicações em indústrias farmacêuticas (nutracêuticos), alimentícias (colorantes, alimentos funcionais e suplementos) e de cosméticos (exemplo: filtro solar) e na aquacultura (ração animal). A microalga Dunaliella salina é capaz de sintetizar, sob alta intensidade luminosa e limitação de nutrientes como fontes de fósforo e nitrogênio, dentre outras condições de estresse, 10 % do peso seco em ß-caroteno (pigmento laranja com atividade pró-vitamina A). Assim, neste trabalho, numa primeira etapa, foi feita uma revisão da literatura abordando a produção de carotenoides por microalgas, bem como sua aplicação. Nesse levantamento bibliográfico abordou-se, dentre outros assuntos, as vantagens do cultivo de microalgas em relação as fontes tradicionais (plantas superiores), assim como uma discussão dos diferentes sistemas de cultivos e sua importância no crescimento celular. Esse review apresentou uma análise crítica dos principais regimes operacionais como batch, fed-batch, semicontínuo e contínuo. Apresentou-se também informações relevantes sobre os mais importantes produtores mundiais de carotenoides de microalgas. Numa segunda etapa, foi desenvolvido um método modificado de microextração líquido-líquido dispersivo modificado (DLLME) para a rápida extração de ß-caroteno de Dunaliella salina cultivada em fotobiorreatores tubulares, com subsequente desenvolvimento de método cromatográfico em uma coluna C4 para a separação do isômero geométrico de ß-caroteno. A extração ótima de ß-caroteno foi obtida com benzeno como solvente extrator e água com 50% de acetona como dispersante. Empregando uma fase móvel composta por metanol e água (95:5, v/v) em HPLC, foi possível a detecção/quantificação de ß-caroteno com 14 minutos de tempo de retenção. Além dos tempos curtos de análises (<20 min), pela extração em volume reduzido (< 10 mL resíduos orgânicos) este método obedece aos princípios da química verde. Sabe-se que nitrogênio, fósforo, assim como carbono e vitaminas são elementos vitais para o crescimento das microalgas e também exercem influência na composição bioquímica da biomassa. Assim, na terceira etapa deste trabalho, estudou-se a influência das quantidades de nitrato de sódio (75 mg L-1, denominado 1N; 112,5 mg L-1, denominado 1,5N; 225 mg L-1, denominado 3N) e de fosfato monobásico dihidratado (5,65 mg L-1, denominado 1P; 8,47 mg L-1, denominado 1,5P; 16,95 mg L-1, denominado 3P) em meio f/2, que tem como base a água do mar, no crescimento e na síntese de ß-caroteno da Dunaliella salina por processo semicontínuo, com uso de frações de corte (R) de 20% e 80%. Foram obtidas produtividades celulares mais elevadas em processos semicontínuos do que em processo descontínuo, com produtividades médias de até 6,7 x 104 células mL-1 d-1 (meio 1N:1P; R =20%). A máxima concentração celular (Xm) obtida neste trabalho não foi dependente de R. Os melhores resultados de Xm foram obtidos quando se usou meio 1,5N:1,5P em vez de meio, com 1N:1P, com valores médios de até 5,6 x 105 células m L-1 (R =80%). O conteúdo de ß-caroteno nas células, de maneira geral, foi maior nas células cultivadas em meio 1N:1P do que no meio 1,5N:1,5P, com valores até 57,5 mg g-1 (R =80%). O cultivo de D. salina com o meio 3N:3P levou a uma longa fase lag, seguida por uma diminuição na concentração celular e sua lise. O cultivo de células em um fotobiorreator tubular contribuiu para um crescimento celular sem contaminação por protozoários. O cultivo de Dunaliella salina em fotobiorreator tubular com o uso de fotoperíodo 12:12 foi apropriado, assim como induzir a carotenogênese, no segundo estágio, por meio do aumento da intensidade luminosa e ausência de controle de pH

Lipid and carotenoid synthesis by Rhodosporidium diobovatum, grown on glucose versus glycerol, and its biodiesel properties.

Relationships between lipid and carotenoid synthesis by Rhodosporidium diobovatum were investigated for cell cultures in nitrogen-limited medium (GMY) containing equimolar amounts of carbon of glucose or glycerol. The cultures were also supplemented with additional substrate at 120 h postinoculation (pi) and during a fed-batch experiment. Growth of R. diobovatum on glucose resulted in higher yields of triacyglycerides (TAGs) and carotenoid than when grown on glycerol, even though the cultures contained equimolar amounts of carbon. After the addition of fresh substrate at 120 h pi, total carotenoid concentrations were significantly different from the concentrations measured at 120 h pi in both glucose and glycerol cultures, with no concomitant increase in lipid concentrations, suggesting that carotenoid synthesis is linked to exponential-phase growth, while lipid synthesis is linked to stationary phase. We also compared the calculated properties of biodiesel that could be made with TAGs derived from R. diobovatum with properties of biodiesel made from TAGs of other oleaginous yeasts, microalgae, vegetable oils, and animal fats. This study shows that R. diobovatum can be an effective strain for production of neutral lipids containing high percentages of oleic acid, palmitic acid, and linoleic acid, as well as carotenoids.

Inhibidores del NF-kB en la dieta y su papel en las enfermedades alérgicas / NF-kB inhibitors from diet and their role in allergic diseases

Resumen El NF-kB tiene un papel central como regulador de las respuestas inflamatoria e inmune. Se encuentra en forma inactiva en el citoplasma de las células. Después de la activación de estas, el NF-kB se disocia de su proteína inhibidora y se transloca al núcleo, donde participa en la transcripción de genes como los de las citoquinas inflamatorias, moléculas de adhesión, inmunoglobulinas y diversos receptores presentes en células de la respuesta inmune, entre otros. Este factor de transcripción posee un grupo de inhibidores fisiológicos y no fisiológicos. Dentro de los no fisiológicos se destacan algunos presentes en la dieta, como los carotenoides y los polifenoles, que reducen su actividad como inductor transcripcional. Diversos estudios epidemiológicos muestran que el consumo de frutas y verduras protege del desarrollo de alergias. Se ha postulado que este efecto protector se debe al contenido de polifenoles y carotenoides presentes en estos alimentos. Estos compuestos actúan en diversos niveles de la respuesta inmune de tipo alérgico. Inhibiendo las citoquinas Th2, el infiltrado de células inflamatorias en los tejidos, la síntesis de IgE y la liberación de mediadores farmacológicos, entre otras. Esto debido al efecto de estos compuestos sobre la fosforilación, ubiquitinación y degradación de diversas proteínas que participan en los procesos de inhibición y/o activación del NF-kB. En esta revisión analizamos aspectos moleculares del NF-kB y describimos inhibidores presentes en la dieta, como polifenoles y carotenoides, su papel en los procesos inflamatorios de tipo alérgico y en el desarrollo de enfermedades alérgicas.

Abstract The NF-kB plays a central role as a regulator of the inflammatory and immune responses. It is found in inactive form in the cytoplasm of cells. After its activation, the NF-kB dissociates from an inhibitory protein and translocate to the nucleus where it participates in the transcription of genes such as inflammatory cytokines, adhesion molecules, immunoglobulins and various receptors on immune cells, among others. This transcription factor has a group of physiological and non-physiological inhibitors. Among the non-physiological, those present in the diet such as carotenoids and polyphenols reduce their activity as a transcriptional inducer. Epidemiological studies have shown that consumption of fruits and vegetables protect against development of allergies. It has been postulated that this protective effect is due to polyphenol and carotenoids present in those foods. These compounds act at various levels of the allergic immune response. Inhibiting Th2 cytokines, inflammatory cell infiltration into tissues, IgE synthesis and the release of pharmacological mediators among others. This is due to their effect on phosphorylation, ubiquitination and degradation of various proteins involved in the processes of inhibition and/or activation of NF-kB. In this review, we analyze molecular aspects of NF-kB and described inhibitors present in the diet, such as polyphenols and carotenoids, their role in allergic inflammatory process and the development of allergic diseases.

Essential oil composition, carotenoid profile, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the parasitic plant Cuscuta mitraeformis / Composición del aceite esencial, perfil de carotenoides, actividades antioxidantes y antimicrobianas de la planta parásita Cuscuta mitraeformis

The chemical composition of the essential oil and carotenoid content of the parasitic plant Cuscuta mitraeformis are described for the first time. The essential oil was analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS revealing nonanal (24.6%) as the main constituent followed by thymol (16.5%) and eugenol (7.5%). The total carotenoid content (130 mg 100 g-1 FW) was determined by HPLC-DAD. The carotenoid fraction contained ß-carotene (76.4 mg 100 g-1 FW) and lutein (18.9 mg 100 g-1 FW) as the most abundant compounds. A weak antioxidant activity was observed by the essential oil against DPPH radical (IC50, 1.4 mg mL-1), whereas a strong antioxidant activity was determined for the carotenoid fraction (IC50, 60.1 µg mL-1). The essential oil inhibited the growth of Clavibacter michiganensis, Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato and Erwinia carotovora with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 122.5, 184.5, 234.2 µg mL-1, respectively.

La composición química del aceite esencial y el contenido de carotenoides de la planta parásita Cuscuta mitraeformis se describen por primera vez. El aceite esencial fue analizado por GC-FID y GC-MS siendo el nonanal (24.6%) el constituyente principal seguido del timol (16.5%) y el eugenol (7.5%). El contenido total de carotenoides (130 mg 100 g-1 PF) fue determinado por HPLC-DAD. La fracción de carotenoides contuvo ß-caroteno (76.4 mg 100 g-1 PF) y luteína (18.9 mg 100 g-1 PF) como compuestos mayoritarios. Fue observada una actividad antioxidante débil por parte del aceite esencial frente al radical DPPH (IC50, 1.4 mg mL-1), mientras que una fuerte actividad antioxidante fue determinada para la fracción de carotenoides (IC50, 60.1 µg mL-1). El aceite esencial inhibió el crecimiento de Clavibacter michiganensis, Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato y Erwinia carotovora con una concentración mínima inhibitoria de 122.5, 184.5, 234.2 µg mL-1, respectivamente.

EFECTO DE LA LIOFILIZACIÓN SOBRE LAS PROPIEDADES FUNCIONALES DEL AJÍ ROCOTO (Capsicum pubescens)

El ají rocoto (Capsicum pubescens) es un fruto perecedero, por lo cual, se hace necesario explorar alternativas agroindustriales, que permitan conservar sus propiedades funcionales. Entre los desarrollos tecnológicos estudiados en la transformación y la conservación de alimentos, se encuentra la liofilización. En esta investigación, se liofilizó ají rocoto, colectado en San Cristóbal-Medellín, Antioquia (Colombia) y se evaluó su efecto sobre las propiedades funcionales, como la capacidad antioxidante, por el método Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), fenoles totales, carotenoides, contenido de ácido ascórbico y capsaicina, tanto en el producto fresco como en los tratamientos liofilizados. Se realizó un arreglo de parcelas dividas, con el factor de la programación de la velocidad de calentamiento, entre 0,02 y 0,05°C/ min, durante la sublimación, asignado a la parcela principal y al factor categórico de semilla en la subparcela, con una aleatorización completamente al azar (DCA), con tres repeticiones. Se registró, que el ají rocoto fresco con semilla incluida, la placenta valores de 1,18mg, equivalentes de ácido ascórbico/g base seca (b.s.), como capacidad antioxidante, por FRAP; 5,37mg, equivalentes de ácido gálico/g b.s., para el contenido de fenoles totales; 4,74mg/g, b.s. de carotenoides; 1,88mg/g b.s., de ácido ascórbico y 1,57mg/g b.s., de capsaicina. Se concluyó que para los tratamientos liofilizados con y sin semillas, se incrementó la capacidad antioxidante y fenoles totales con respecto al producto en fresco. Se evidenció diferencia estadística en las programaciones de calentamiento durante la sublimación, afectando el contenido de capsaicina, en los tratamientos con y sin semillas.

The chili pepper (Capsicum pubescens) is a perishable fruit whereby it is necessary to explore agroindustrial alternatives, that preserves its functional properties; within the technological developments studied in food processing and preservation is freeze-drying. In this research, the rocoto chili pepper harvested in rural area of San Cristobal-Medellin, Antioquia (Colombia), was freeze-drying and it was evaluated the effect on the functional properties such as antioxidant capacity by the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power method (FRAP), total phenols, carotenoids, ascorbic acid and capsaicin, both in the fresh product and in freeze- drying treatments. Was realized a fix split plots, with the factor of programming the heating rate, between 0.02 and 0.05°C/min during sublimation assigned to the principal plot and the categorical factor seeds in the subplot, was performed with a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. It was obtained in fresh chilli with seed including placenta values of 1.18mg of eq. ascorbic acid/g dried basis (d.b.) as antioxidant capacity by FRAP; 5.37mg of eq. gallic acid/g d.b. for total phenols content; 4.74mg/g d.b. of carotenoids; 1.88mg/g d.b. of ascorbic acid and 1.57mg/g d.b. of capsaicin. It was concluded that for the freeze-drying treatments, the antioxidant capacity and total phenols were increased, with respect to the fresh product. It evidenced a statistical difference in the heating schedules during sublimation affecting the capsaicin content in seed and seedless treatments.

Physicochemical and antioxidant capacity analysis of colored sweet potato genotypes: in natura and thermally processed / Análises físico-químicas e capacidade antioxidante de genótipos coloridos de batata-doce in natura e termicamente processados

ABSTRACT: Sweet potato ( Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) is one of the most popular and ancient roots of Brazil and it can be consumed at different forms such as boiled, roasted or as sweets. Its cooking can lead to physicochemical transformations altering the nutritional properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics, bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity of twelve sweet potato genotypes of varying pulp color in natura and roasted. Soluble solids, acidity, sugars, carotenoids, anthocyanins, phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity were analyzed in the following sweet potatoes genotypes: cream pulp (Rubissol, Cuia, ILS03, ILS10, ILS12, ILS24 and ILS44); orange pulp (Amelia and Beauregard); and purple pulp (ILS56, ILS16 and ILS71). According to the results, it was observed a wide variation among the sweet potato genotypes for all analyzed parameters, in both preparation forms. The antioxidant capacity was a parameter with wide variation among genotypes, 210.29 to 7870.57µg trolox equivalent/g in in natura form and 673.26 to 17306.22µg trolox equivalent/g in roasted form. Soluble solids, acidity, sugars and bioactive compounds, with the exception of carotenoids, tended to be concentrated, also increases the total antioxidant capacity, in roasted sweet potatoes. In conclusion, genotype and the color of sweet potatoes were parameters that had an influence on its chemical composition. Cultivars such as Amelia and Beauregard stood out by the amounts of total soluble solids and carotenoids, respectively. The selections ILS 16 and ILS 56 are recommended as sources of anthocyanins. Thermal process influenced the concentration of antioxidant compounds and changed some physicochemical characteristics.

RESUMO: A batata-doce ( Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) é uma das raízes mais populares e antigas do Brasil, podendo ser consumida cozida, assada ou na forma de doces. A sua cocção pode levar à transformações físico-químicas alterando as propriedades nutricionais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características físico-químicas, compostos bioativos e atividade antioxidante de doze genótipos de batata-doce, de coloração de polpa variada, na forma in natura e assada. Foram determinados sólidos solúveis totais, acidez, açúcares, carotenoides, antocianinas, compostos fenólicos e atividade antioxidante nos seguintes genótipos de batatas-doces: polpa creme (Rubissol, Cuia, ILS03, ILS10, ILS12, ILS24 e ILS44); polpa laranja (Amélia e Beauregard) e polpa roxa (ILS56, ILS16 e ILS71). Quanto aos resultados foi observada ampla variação entre os genótipos de batata-doce, para todos os parâmetros analisados, em ambas as formas de preparo. A atividade antioxidante foi um parâmetro que demonstrou grande variação entre os genótipos, de 210,29 a 7870,57µg de equivalente trolox/g nos genótipos in natura e de 673,26 a 17306,22µg de equivalente trolox/g nos genótipos assados. Foi observado que em batatas-doces assadas os sólidos solúveis, acidez, açúcares e os compostos bioativos, com exceção dos carotenoides, tenderam a ser concentrados, elevando também a atividade antioxidante total. Em conclusão, o genótipo e a coloração da batata-doce foram parâmetros que exerceram influência sob a sua composição química. Cultivares como Amélia e Beauregard se destacaram pela quantidade de sólidos solúveis totais e carotenoides, respectivamente. Como fonte de antocianinas, as seleções ILS 16 e ILS 56 são recomendadas. O processo térmico influenciou a concentração de compostos antioxidantes e alterou algumas características físico-químicas.