Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Opuntia ficus-indica Fruit (OFI-EVs) Speed Up the Normal Wound Healing Processes by Modulating Cellular Responses.

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been recognized as important mediators of intercellular communication able to transfer active biomolecules across the plant and animal kingdoms. EVs have demonstrated an impressive array of biological activities, displaying preventive and therapeutic potential in mitigating various pathological processes. Indeed, the simplicity of delivering exogenous and endogenous bioactive molecules to mammalian cells with their low cytotoxicity makes EVs suitable agents for new therapeutic strategies for a variety of pathologies. In this study, EVs were isolated from Opuntia ficus-indica fruit (OFI-EVs) and characterized by particle size distribution, concentration, and bioactive molecule composition. OFI-EVs had no obvious toxicity and demonstrated a protective role in the inflammatory process and oxidative stress in vitro model of chronic skin wounds. The results demonstrated that pretreatment with OFI-EVs decreased the activity and gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) in the LPS-stimulated human leukemia monocytic cell line (THP-1). Furthermore, OFI-EVs promote the migration of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs), speeding up the normal wound healing processes. This study sheds light, for the first time, on the role of OFI-EVs in modulating important biological processes such as inflammation and oxidation, thereby identifying EVs as potential candidates for healing chronic cutaneous wounds.

LC-ESI-UHR-QqTOF-MS/MS profiling and anti-inflammatory potential of the cultivated Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. and the wild Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. fruits from the Algerian region.

Opuntia plants are abundant but still underexplored edible resources of the Algerian region. This work chemically characterizes extracts of different parts of the fruit of the commercial Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. and the wild Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. growing in Bejaia, and evaluates their anti-inflammatory potential through different cell and cell-free bioassays. The LC-ESI-UHR-QqTOF-MS/MS analysis enabled the identification of 18 compounds, with azelaic acid and 1-O-vanilloyl-ß-d-glucose reported here for the first time. Aqueous extracts of seeds were the most effective in scavenging superoxide anion radical (IC50 = 111.08 µg/mL) and presented the best anti-inflammatory potential in LPS-stimulated macrophages (IC50 = 206.30 µg/mL). The pulp of O. stricta suggested potential for addressing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, with piscidic and eucomic acids predicted with the strongest binding affinity towards tyrosinase, exhibiting higher scoring values than the reference inhibitor kojic acid. This pioneer study brings valuable perspectives for the pharmacological, nutritional and economic valorization of the wild O. stricta for functional foods.

Fatty acids characterisation by GC-MS, antiglycation effect at multiple stages and protection of erythrocytes cells from oxidative damage induced by glycation of albumin of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill seed oil cultivated in Eastern Morocco: Experimental and computational approaches.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill is frequently observed in the Moroccan traditional medicinal system, where these approaches are employed to mitigate the onset of diabetes and the subsequent complications it may entail. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this research was to examine the effectiveness of Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil in preventing diabetic complications. Specifically, the study assessed its ability to counteract glycation at various stages, protected red blood cells from the harmful effects of glycated albumin, and inhibited pancreatic lipase digestive enzymes to understand its potential antihyperglycemic properties. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the chemical components responsible for these effects, evaluate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and conduct computational investigations such as molecular docking. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The assessement of Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil antiglycation properties involved co-incubating the extract oil with a bovine serum albumin-glucose glycation model. The study investigated various stages of glycation, incorporating fructosamine (inceptive stage), protein carbonyls (intermediate stage), and AGEs (late stage). Additionally, measurement of ß-amyloid aggregation of albumin was performed using Congo red, which is specific to amyloid structures. Additionally, the evaluation of oil's safeguarding effect on erythrocytes against toxicity induced by glycated albumin included the measurement of erythrocyte hemolysis, lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione. The fatty acid of Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil were analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The in vitro evaluation of antihyperglycemic activity involved the use of pancreatic lipase enzyme, while the assessement of antioxidant capability was carried out through the utilization of the ABTS and FRAP methods. The in vitro assessement of the denaturation of albumin activity was also conducted. In conjunction with the experimental outcomes, computational investigations were undertaken, specifically employing ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) analysis. Furthermore, molecular docking was utilized to predict antioxidant and antiglycation mechanisms based on protein targets. RESULTS: In vitro glycation assays, Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil displayed targeted inhibitory effects at multiple distinct stages. Within erythrocytes, in addition to mitigating hemolysis and lipid peroxidation induced by glycated albumin. GC-MS investigation revealed a richness of fatty acids and the most abundant compounds are Linoleic acid (36.59%), Palmitic acid (20.84%) and Oleic acid (19.33%) respectively. The findings of antioxidant ability showed a remarkable activity on FRAP and ABTS radicals. This oil showed a pronounced inhibitory impact (p < 0.001) on pancreatic lipase enzyme. It also exerted a notibale inhibition of albumin denaturation, in vitro. CONCLUSION: The identified results were supported by the abundant compounds of fatty acids unveiled through GC-MS analysis, along with the computational investigation and molecular docking.

Dyslipidemic effect of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of raw and roasted xoconostle (Opuntia joconostle) peel / Efecto dislipidémico de extractos acuosos y etanólicos de cáscara cruda y asada de xoconostle (Opuntia joconostle)

The aim of the present study was to assess the impacts of roasting and the type of extraction solvent (ethanol or water) on the hypolipidemic act ivity of xoconostle fruit peel extracts in a tyloxapol - induced model of hyperlipidemia. Water and ethanol extracts from raw and roasted Opuntia joconostle peels were obtained to quantify the phytochemicals contained within and assess their hypolipidemic ac tivity in rats (n=5) against tyloxapol - induced dyslipidemia (400 mg/kg). The raw ethanol and water extracts, as well as the roasted water extract (200 mg/kg), showed hypolipidemic activity in the tyloxapol - treated group ( p <0.05). In contrast, the roasted s ample extracted with ethanol did not show this effect. The concentrations of phenolic compounds (39.80 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (16.42 ± 0.14 mg QE/g) were higher in the ethanolic extracts than in the aqueous extracts. Conversely, the concentration of beta lains (115.51 ± 1.66 mg/100 g) was higher in the water extracts than in the ethanol extracts. It was concluded that the roasting process modified the concentration of some phytochemicals and their antioxidant capacity in vitro , producing a hypolipidemic ef fect in tyloxapol - induced hyperlipidemic rats

El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el impacto del tostado y del tipo de disolvente de e xtracción (etanol o agua) sobre la actividad hipolipidémica de los extractos de cáscara de frutos de xoconostle en un modelo de hiperlipidemia inducido por el tyloxapol. Se obtuvieron extractos acuosos y etanólicos de cáscara cruda y asada de Opuntia jocon ostle para cuantificar los fitoquímicos que contienen y evaluar su actividad hipolipidémica en ratas (n=5) contra la dislipidemia inducida por el tyloxapol (400 mg/kg). Los extractos acuosos y etanólicos crudos, así como el extracto acuoso tostado (200 mg/ kg), mostraron actividad hipolipidémica en el grupo tratado con tiloxapol ( p <0,05). En cambio, la muestra asada y extraída con etanol no mostró este efecto. Las concentraciones de compuestos fenólicos (39,80 mg GAE/g) y flavonoides (16,42 ± 0,14 mg QE/g) f ueron mayores en los extractos etanólicos que en los acuosos. Por el contrario, la concentración de betalaínas (115,51 ± 1,66 mg/100 g) fue mayor en los extractos acuosos que en los etanólicos. Se concluyó que el proceso de asado modificó la concentración de algunos fitoquímicos y su capacidad antioxidante in vitro , produciendo un efecto hipolipidémico en ratas hiperlipidémicas inducidas por el tyloxapol.

Cladodes of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) as a source of bioactive compounds in dairy products.

Recently, the interest in improving livestock product nutraceutical profiles through sustainable feeding systems has increased. In this context, the overall quality and nutraceutical profiles were examined in dairy products obtained from 16 lactating Cinisara cows given an integrated feed in dry season with Opuntia ficus-indica cladodes. Two homogeneous groups of cows (milk yield: 6.3 ± 1.5 kg; body weight: 213 ± 55 kg) were fed with 2 different diets (CON: pasture and wheat bran; OFI: pasture, wheat bran, and cladodes), according to a 2 × 2 Latin square design. The bulk milk produced during the study was used to make Caciotta cheese and was analyzed at 0, 15, and 30 storage days. Milk and cheese samples were analyzed for chemical, physical, and microbiological traits. The nutraceutical and sensorial profiles, as well as the antioxidant capacity, were also determined in the final products. For milk, the urea content in individual samples was reduced in OFI but not in CON. In the cheese, integration of cladodes did not influence the starter cultures development with 2 strains of Streptococcus thermophilus, but it caused a higher content of polyphenols and a consequent greater antioxidant capacity and a change in the fatty acids profile. In particular, the caprylic, capric, lauric, myristic, and palmitic fatty acids were higher, as were the petroselinic, vaccenic, rumenic, and α-linolenic fatty acids. In contrast, the oleic and the γ-linolenic fatty acids were lower for OFI. The cheese from the OFI group showed better overall acceptability, and a higher yellow color, odor intensity, and butter flavor. The multivariate analysis well distinguished the cheeses belonging to the 2 groups. Further investigations should be conducted to formulate well-balanced diets that include cladodes for Cinisara lactating cows, but also to determine the content of other important bioactive compounds in fresh and treated cladodes, as well as their effects on animal welfare and production.

Recent Research on Different Parts and Extracts of Opuntia dillenii and Its Bioactive Components, Functional Properties, and Applications.

Opuntia dillenii (O. dillenii) is a plant belonging to the Cactaceae family that is abundant in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. O. dillenii is consumed as a local delicacy and has no other current use. To understand the nutritional value of O. dillenii in human health and its application in the food, cosmetic, and drug industries, this review summarizes information on the chemical compounds (pure α-pyrone compounds, flavonoids, phenolic acids, polysaccharides, minerals, fatty acids, and betalains) and biological properties (anti-diabetic, anti-hyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-spermatogenic, anticancer, antilarval, anti-angiogenic, and antioxidant) of extracts from each part of the plant (fruit juice, fruit peel, cladode, and seeds) (aqueous, ethanolic, and methanolic), and seed oil. In addition, data related to the recent applications of O. dillenii in various industries (e.g., edible coatings, food supplements, cosmetics, nanoparticles, and wastewater treatment) are provided.

Foodomics revealed the effects of ultrasonic extraction on the composition and nutrition of cactus fruit (Opuntia ficus-indica) seed oil.

Cactus is a tropical fruit with a high nutritional value; however, little information is available regarding the comprehensive utilization of its byproducts. This study aimed to explore the composition and nutritional value of cactus fruit seed oil (CFO) and reveal the effects of ultrasound-assisted extraction and traditional solvent extraction on oil quality. Foodomics analysis showed that CFO extracted using a traditional solvent is rich in linolenic acid (9c12cC18:2, 57.46 ± 0.84 %), α-tocopherol (20.01 ± 1.86 mg/100 g oil), and canolol (200.10 ± 1.21 µg/g). Compared to traditional solvent extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction can significantly increase the content of lipid concomitants in CFO, whereas excessive ultrasound intensity may lead to the oxidation of oils and the formation of free radicals. Analysis of the thermal properties showed that ultrasound had no effect on the crystallization or melting behavior of CFO. To further demonstrate the nutritional value of CFO, a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lipid metabolism imbalance model was used. Lipidomics analysis showed that CFO significantly reduced the content of oxidized phospholipids stimulated by LPS and increased the content of highly bioactive metabolites such as ceramides, thus alleviating LPS-induced damage in C. elegans. Hence, CFO is a functional oil with high value, and ultrasound-assisted extraction is advocated. These findings provide new insights into the comprehensive utilization of cactus fruits.

Protective effects and mechanisms of opuntia polysaccharide in animal models of diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Opuntia speciesis used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes mellitus (DM). Polysaccharide is one of the main components of Opuntia. Opuntia polysaccharide (OPS) is a kind of natural active macromolecular substance, numerous animal experiments have been conducted to treat DM, however, its protective effect and mechanism in animal models of DM has not been clarified. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of OPS on DM through a stematic review and meta-analysis of animal models, and whether its improves blood glucose (BG) levels, body weight (BW), food intake, water intake, and lipid levels, and to summarize the potential mechanism of OPS in the treatment of DM. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched relevant Chinese and English databases from the date of construction to March 2022, including PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus and Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biomedicine Literature Database (CBM), Chinese Science and Technology Periodicals Database (VIP), Wanfang Database. 16 studies were included for meta-analysis. RESULTS: The results showed that compared with the model group, the OPS significantly improved BG, BW, food intake, water intake, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Meta-regression and subgroup analysis showed that intervention dose, animal species, duration and modeling method may be the source of the heterogeneity. There was no statistical difference between the positive control group and the OPS treatment group in improving BW, food intake, water intake, TC, TG, HDL-C, and LDL-C. CONCLUSIONS: OPS can effectively improve the symptoms of hyperglycemia, polydipsia, polyphagia, low body weight, and dyslipidemia in DM animals. The possible protective mechanisms of OPS on DM animals are immune regulation, repair of damaged pancreatic ß cells, and inhibition of oxidative stress and cell apoptosis.

Effect of the type of acetic fermentation process on the chemical composition of prickly pear vinegar (Opuntia ficus-indica).

BACKGROUND: In several countries, the cactus plant (Opuntia ficus-indica (L). Mill.) has received renewed attention because of its ecological, socio-economic and environmental role. In this study, prickly pear vinegar was produced employing two types of acetification processes: surface and submerged culture. Both acetification processes were performed at different temperatures (30, 37, 40 °C) by using two different species of thermotolerant acetic acid bacteria (Acetobacter malorum and Gluconobacter oxydans). Polyphenols and volatile compounds analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection and stir bar sorptive extraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, respectively, were considered as the main variables to determine the effect of the acetification process on the quality of the vinegar. RESULTS: As a result, 15 polyphenols and 70 volatile compounds were identified and quantified in the vinegar samples produced by both acetification processes. The results showed that the surface acetification method led to an increase in the concentration of phenolic components, which was higher than that in the submerged process. However, a significant increase in volatile compounds predominated by esters and acids was observed when submerged culture acetification was employed, whereas alcohols were predominant in surface culture vinegars. Moreover, multivariate statistical analysis showed that the components that mostly contributed to the differentiation between all vinegar samples were the volatile compounds. CONCLUSION: It has been proved that prickly pear vinegar could be successfully produced at higher temperatures than usual, by employing thermotolerant bacteria, and that the type of acetification method significantly affects the final quality of the vinegar produced. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Radiochemical transformation of mucilage extracted from Opuntia ficus-índica using gamma radiation.

Gamma irradiation is a powerful tool for modifying the physicochemical properties of polymers. Gamma radiation has been widely used to carry out reactions such as crosslinking, depolymerization, and graft copolymerization, with a wide variety of synthetic and natural polymers. Although gamma irradiation proved to be useful to modify the chemical properties of several polysaccharides, this method has not been applied to mucilage. However, irradiation could bring beneficial changes to mucilage for its use in different applications. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the radiochemical transformation of mucilage extracted from Opuntia ficus-indica using gamma radiation. Results obtained from FTIR-ATR, pH and electrical conductivity in aqueous solution showed that decarboxylation of mucilage occurs applying a radiation dose from 2 to 12 kGy. Further, it was observed that thermal stability of mucilage was enhanced with a radiation dose of 2 and 6 kGy. The decarboxylation degree was proportional to the radiation dose in the interval of 0-12 kGy. Further, mucilage was irradiated in the presence of acrylic acid forming mucilage/PAA hydrogels with high swelling capacity. The best swelling capacity (734%) was observed for the hydrogel obtained applying 2 kGy of gamma radiation. Hydrogels prepared with higher radiation doses (4-20 kGy) showed lower swelling capacity and higher thermal stability, which suggest a higher crosslinking degree. The experiments performed in this work were performed using 100 mg of mucilage but gamma irradiation allows a high scalability of the process. The usefulness of gamma irradiation relays on the development of a method for preparing hydrogels by an easy and scalable method.

Chemical Composition and Antioxidant, Antiviral, Antifungal, Antibacterial and Anticancer Potentials of Opuntia ficus-indica Seed Oil

Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) is a cactus that is widely cultivated in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia especially in the Taif region due to its favorable weather for growing, and it has benefits as a food and traditional medicine. The aim of the current study was to chemically characterize Opuntia ficus-indica seed oil from Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, using GC-MS and HPLC analysis and evaluate its antioxidant, antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial and anticancer activities. Linolenic acid was the dominating fatty acid in OFI oil, followed by oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid and stearic acid. Total tocopherol (α-, ß-, Ɣ-tocopherol) was found to be 24.02 µg/mL. Campesterol was the main phytosterol, followed by γ- & ß -sitosterol, and Stigmasterol. The phenolic components scored 30.5 mg gallic acid equivalent per ml of oil with 89.2% antioxidant activity (% DPPH radical inhibition) at 200 µL/mL of OFI oil. OFI oil showed an inhibition efficacy against microbial strains especially Saccharomyces cervisiae with a diameter (28.3 ± 0.4), MBC (15 µg/mL) and MIC bacteriostatic (10 µg/mL). While OFI oil had no effect against Aspergillus niger, OFI oil showed weak inhibitory activity against A-2780 (Ovarian carcinoma) cell line, although it showed significant inhibitory activity against PC-3 (Prostate carcinoma) cell line. OFI oil exhibited an antiviral effect (22.67 ± 2.79%) at 300 µg/mL of Oil against herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) virus. The bioactive compounds of OFI oil, as well as its main biological activities, make it a promising candidate for the non-communicable disease management.

Opuntia ficus indica (L.) Mill. An Ancient Plant Source of Nutraceuticals.

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. (OFI) is a plant with numerous beneficial properties known in traditional medicine. It has been a domesticated plant in Latin America, Africa, Mediterranean countries, the Middle East, India and Australia. Nowadays, the research concentrates on natural compounds to lower costs and the possible side effects of synthetic compounds. The use of nutraceuticals, bioactive compounds of vegetable origin with important nutritional values, is encouraged. OFI has shown numerous activities due to its high content of antioxidants, including flavonoids and ascorbate, pigments, carotenoids and betalains, phenolic acids and other phytochemical components, such as biopeptides and soluble fibers. The most important effects of OFI are represented by the activity against acne, arthrosis, dermatosis, diabetes, diarrhea, fever, high blood pressure, prostatitis, rheumatism, stomachache, tumor, wart, allergy, wound, colitis and some viral diseases. Moreover, a promising role has been suggested in inflammatory bowel disease, colitis and metabolic syndrome. The most recent studies addressed the role of OFI in preventing and treating COVID-19 disease. In light of the above, this review summarizes the biological activities and health benefits that this plant may exert.

HPLC Analysis and the Antioxidant and Preventive Actions of Opuntia stricta Juice Extract against Hepato-Nephrotoxicity and Testicular Injury Induced by Cadmium Exposure.

Opuntia stricta is a rich source of phenolic compounds. This species generally has strong antioxidant activities in vitro and in vivo. This study aimed to analyze the antioxidant properties of phenolic compounds isolated from Opuntia stricta, including its radical scavenging activities and preventive action against Cd-induced oxidative stress in rats. To assess the protection of prickly pear juice extract (PPJE) against Cd-induced hepato-nephrotoxicity and testicular damage, male albino rats received PPJE (250 mg kg−1) and/or Cd (1 mg kg−1) by oral administration and injection, respectively, for five consecutive weeks. The preventive action of PPJE was estimated using biochemical markers of kidney and liver tissues, antioxidant status, and histological examinations. In the present study, the lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyls, antioxidant status, and metallothionein levels were determined in different tissues. The chromatographic analysis indicated that PPJE extract is very rich in phenolic compounds such as verbascoside, catechin hydrate, and oleuropein. Our results showed that PPJE-treated rats had significantly (p < 0.05) decreased Cd levels in liver and kidney tissues. In addition, the administration of PPJE induced a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in lipid peroxidation of 30.5, 54.54, and 40.8 in the liver, kidney, and testicle, respectively, and an increase in antioxidant status in these tissues. Additionally, PPJE showed a strong ability to protect renal, hepatic, and testicular architectures against Cd exposure. This study revealed that PPJE protects against the toxic effects of Cd, possibly through its free radical scavenging and antioxidant activities.

An overview and update on the chemical composition and potential health benefits of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller.

Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI), widely recognized as prickly pear, is native to Mexico and it is distributed in many areas of the world because of its socioeconomic, agronomic, and ecological benefits, besides its large amounts of functional, nutraceutical, and biological activities. Various parts of this plant including the fruit pulp and peel, cladode, and seeds are scientifically proven to have therapeutic potentials and are safe for human use. The contents of phytochemical compounds in each part of the OFI are different. Each pharmacological activity depends on the phytochemical compounds, the components used, and the extraction type. In this review, we summarize the active constituents from different parts of OFI and their pharmacological effects including the antioxidant, wound healing, skin protective, hepatoprotective, anticancer, antidiabetic, antihypercholesterolemic, and anti-obesity activities. Besides its effects on the bone health, cardiovascular system, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract, its gastroprotective, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, neuroprotective, sedative, analgesic, anxiolytic and antimicrobial effects and effects on cognitive and memory function are also mentioned. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Over the past few decades, the health benefits of Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) have received much attention. All parts of the plant, including the fruit pulp and peel, cladode, and seeds have found use in the treatment of many diseases. The chemical composition of OFI provides both a high nutritional value and various health benefits. Therefore, the aim of this review is to present the up-to-date research carried out on OFI phytochemicals, showing the most important biological activities reported.

[Distribution and bioactivity of polyphenols in Opuntia ficus-indica (L. ) Mill].

OBJECTIVE: To study the distribution of the polyphenols of Opuntia ficus-indica(L. ) Mill, and study its antioxidant and the inhibition of sugar digestive enzyme activities by vitro experiments. METHODS: Using ethanol as solvent, free polyphenols, esterified polyphenols, and insoluble bonded polyphenols were extracted from the peel, pulp and seeds of Opuntia ficus-indica(L. ) Mill, and their contents were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. Antioxidant activity was measured according to their ability to scavenge DPPH, OH and ABTS~(+ )radicals, and the inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities by various types of polyphenols in various parts was observed in vitro. RESULTS: The peel polyphenol content of Opuntia ficus-indica(L. ) Mill was(1427.15±34.48) mg GAE/100 g, the pulp polyphenol content was(525.88±51.66) mg GAE/100 g, and the seed polyphenol content was(256.92±3.81) mg GAE/100 g. The free polyphenols, esterified polyphenols, and insoluble bonded polyphenols of different parts of Opuntia ficus-indica(L. ) Mill have the ability to scavenge DPPH, OH and ABTS~(+ )radicals, and the seeds had the strongest antioxidant capacity among all parts, the esterified polyphenols and insoluble bonded polyphenols of pulp and seeds of Opuntia ficus-indica(L. ) Mill have inhibitory effects on the activities of α-glucosidase and α-amylase, with seed polyphenols have the strongest inhibitory ability. CONCLUSION: Opuntia ficus-indica(L. ) Mill has the highest content of polyphenols in the peel, and seed polyphenols have good antioxidant and the inhibition of sugar digestive enzyme activities.

Exploration of Betalains and Determination of the Antioxidant and Cytotoxicity Profile of Orange and Purple Opuntia spp. Cultivars in Greece.

Replacing synthetic dyes with natural pigments has gained great attention over the past years in the food industry, due to the increased alertness of consumers for nontoxic and natural additives. Betalains are water-soluble nitrogenous natural pigments that are used as natural colorants in food industries, due to their applicability and their rich pharmacological profile including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. Therefore, there is a need for a detailed exploration of betalains to fully exploit their properties. Opuntia spp. plants are one of the primary sources of betalains. The objective of this study was to identify betalain phytochemical content in prickly pear cactus of two different Opuntia species from Greece (an Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill (OFI) orange prickly pear cultivar and an Opuntia spp. purple prickly pear cultivar) using modern analytical techniques as also to evaluate their antioxidant and cytotoxicity profile. To achieve this we used an array of analytical techniques, including ultra-violet-vis (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) as also cell based in vitro assays. These enabled us to establish a rapid approach that can distinguish the different Opuntia spp. cultivars based on their phytochemical constituents through untargeted metabolomics analysis using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry - quadrupole time-of-flight (UPLC/MS Q-TOF). These findings could allow a further exploitation of Opuntia species and especially their enriched betalain phytochemical profile as viable source of natural food colorants.

Evaluation of in vitro anticancer potential of pharmacological ethanolic plant extracts Acacia modesta and Opuntia monocantha against liver cancer cells.

Acacia modesta (AM) and Opuntia monocantha (OM) are distributed in Pakistan, Afghanistan and India. Both of these plants have different pharmacological properties. This study was designed to evaluate anticancer potential of Acacia modesta (AM) and Opuntia monocantha (OM). Liver cancer cell line HepG2 was used for assessment of anticancer activity. For the evaluation of anti-proliferative effects, cell viability and cell death in all groups of cells were evaluated via MTT, crystal violet and trypan blue assays. For the evaluation of apoptosis ELISA of p53 performed. Furthermore, LDH assay to find out the ability of malignant cells to metabolize pyruvate to lactate and antioxidant enzymes activity (GSH, CAT and SOD) at the end HPLC was performed to find active compound of AM and OM. Cytotoxicity (MTT), Viability assays (trypan blue, crystal viability, MUSE analysis) showed more dead, less live cells in plant treated groups with increase of concentration. Scratch assay for the anti-migratory effect of these plants showed treated groups have not ability to heal scratch/wound. ELISA of p53 for cellular apoptosis showed more release of p53 in treated groups. Antioxidant assay via glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) showed less anti-oxidative potential in treated cancer groups. LDH assay showed more lactate dehydrogenase release in treated groups compared with untreated. HPLC analysis showed the presence of phytochemicals such as steroids, alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, anthraquinone and amino acids in AM and OM plant extracts. Based on all these findings, it can be concluded that ethanolic extracts of Acacia modesta and Opuntia monocantha have promising anti-cancer potential.

Phenolic composition, antioxidant and antiacetylcholinesterase activities of Opuntia ficus-indica peel and flower teas after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion.

BACKGROUND: The flowers and peels of cactus Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) are by-products generally discarded. Their beneficial properties have been linked to the chemical composition without taking into account its transformations during digestion. This study evaluated and compared the phenolic composition, antioxidant and antiacetylcholinesterase activities of OFI peel and flower teas before and after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. RESULTS: Results showed that OFI peel tea was a source of natural phenolic compounds and carotenoids, while OFI flower tea was a source of flavonoids. Both OFI peel and flower teas exhibited high antioxidant activities (AAs) measured by several tests [1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH• ), reducing power (RP), hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity (HPSA)]. Flower teas presented a higher antiacetylcholinesterase inhibition percentage than peel teas. Significant decreases of acetylcholinesterase and AAs were obtained under in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. Fourteen phenolic compounds typical of phenolic acids and flavonoids were identified in both teas. These compounds seemed to be more affected by pancreatic than by the gastric conditions. CONCLUSION: OFI peel tea has been found as a source of natural phenolic compounds and carotenoids, while OFI dry flower tea as a source of flavonoids. The OFI flower tea phytochemicals were more stable than peel tea during the digestive process. These findings suggest that peels and flowers of OFI should be considered as sources of healthy ingredients. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effect of Opuntia ficus indica extract on methotrexate-induced testicular injury: a biochemical, docking and histological study.

Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapeutic medicine used in the treatment of several types of cancer and inflammatory diseases. It exhibits several drawbacks especially on highly dividing and developing cells. This study aimed to assess the role of Opuntia ficus indica ethanolic extract on testicular damage induced by MTX in rat. MTX was administrated for 10 days (20 mg/kg). Extract of cactus cladodes (Opuntia ficus indica) was given to MTX-treated rats (0.4 g/kg). Spermatozoa were collected from cauda epididymis and analyzed for sperm count and motility. Testis samples were used for histopathological and oxidative stress studies (assessment of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, protein carbonyls (PCs), catalase (CAT) glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities). Moreover, levels of testosterone were measured in serum by radioimmunoassay. Our results showed that MTX had destructive effects on sperm count and motility associated with significant decrease in testosterone levels in MTX group. This effect was then confirmed by docking results. Testis of MTX group showed increased oxidative stress status. In fact, PCs and MDA were increased and CAT, GPx and SOD were decreased suggesting increased reactive oxygen species and deficiency in enzymatic antioxidant. These findings were associated with disrupted testicular morphology as assessed by histological study. Cladodes extract had protective effects on rat's gonad histology, oxidative stress and improve both sperm parameters (count and motility) and serum testosterone levels. In conclusion, our results suggested that Opuntia ficus indica cladodes extract improved MTX-induced testicular injury and possess potent fertility boosting effects in rats.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Protective Effect of Opuntia dillenii (Ker Gawl.) Haw. Seed Oil on Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity: A Biochemical and Histological Analysis.

Opuntia dillenii is a medicinal plant with frequent usage in folk medicine to treat many illnesses. The present study aims to investigate the protective effect of Opuntia dillenii seed oil against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. The animals (rats) were randomly divided into three groups (i) the normal control group treated only with distilled water (10 mL/kg), (ii) the gentamicin group treated with distilled water (10 mL/kg) and received an intraperitoneal injection of gentamicin (80 mg/kg), and (iii) the group treated with the Opuntia dillenii seed oil (2 mL/kg) and also received an intraperitoneal injection of gentamicin (80 mg/kg). The rats received their following treatments for 14 consecutive days orally. Serum urea, creatinine, gamma-glutamyl transferase, albumin, and electrolyte levels were quantified as the markers of acute renal and liver failure. Besides, the kidney and liver relative weight, kidney malondialdehydes, and kidney histological analysis were determined. The results have shown that daily pretreatment with Opuntia dillenii seed oil (2 mL/kg) prevented severe alterations of biochemical parameters and disruptions of kidney tissue structures. In addition, the results of the present study showed for the first time that Opuntia dillenii seed oil reduced renal toxicity in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Therefore, Opuntia dillenii seed oil may represent a new therapeutic avenue to preserve and protect renal function in gentamicin-treated patients.