Microgreens are young and tender vegetables or herbs that provide attractive color,flavor,and nutrition.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nutritional and sensory qualities of broccoli microgreens grown by ...Microgreens are young and tender vegetables or herbs that provide attractive color,flavor,and nutrition.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nutritional and sensory qualities of broccoli microgreens grown by different methods(hydroponically vs.soil grown)and from different sources(commercial vs.local farm).No significant difference in total phenolic concentration and antioxidant capacity was found in all broccoli microgreens,but a significantly higher chlorophyll concentration was found in farm microgreens than the commercial ones.Moreover,the soil-grown farm microgreens possessed a significantly higher vitamin C concentration than hydroponically-grown farm sample and commercial sample.Participants in the sensory study favored farm samples regardless of growing method,and their overall liking was significantly correlated with taste of the microgreens.In addition,six other microgreens from the local farm were analyzed for their nutritional quality.These conclusions suggested a potential for consumers to still benefit nutritionally by purchasing commercial microgreens at a lower cost;however,it may be worthwhile for consumers to purchase microgreens from local farms for a better sensory experience.展开更多
Microgreens are emerging functional foods and are gaining popularity due to their high levels of phytochemicals,vitamins,and minerals.Controlled-environment agriculture(CEA),powered by energy-efficient light-emitting ...Microgreens are emerging functional foods and are gaining popularity due to their high levels of phytochemicals,vitamins,and minerals.Controlled-environment agriculture(CEA),powered by energy-efficient light-emitting diodes(LEDs),has revolutionized microgreen production by enabling precise control of light parameters.This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current research(2015-2024)on the influence of LED spectral quality,intensity,and photoperiod on the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds and reduction of anti-nutritional factors especially nitrates and oxalates in microgreens.Key light-responsive phytochemicals discussed include phenolics,carotenoids,glucosinolates,vitamins,and antioxidants,with a focus on species-specific responses.The review delves into the mechanistic basis of LED elicitation,highlighting the roles of photoreceptors,transcription factors(e.g.,HY5,PIF),and associated gene expression pathways.Further,the integration of transcriptomic and metabolomic data is examined to provide molecular-level insights into light-regulated secondary metabolism.Environmental sustainability is critically assessed,considering LED energy efficiency,life span,and their po-tential to reduce the carbon footprint of controlled-environment agriculture systems.The review concludes by identifying research gaps,proposing standardized light protocols,gene-light interaction models,and sustainable microgreen farming practices for urban and vertical agriculture.展开更多
Microgreens of the Brassicaceae family have garnered considerable interest due to their higher phytochemical content compared to their mature counterparts.These bioactive compounds include phenolic compounds,glucosino...Microgreens of the Brassicaceae family have garnered considerable interest due to their higher phytochemical content compared to their mature counterparts.These bioactive compounds include phenolic compounds,glucosinolates,and isothiocyanates.This study evaluated their bioaccessibility and antioxidant capacity in red mizuna microgreens,sodium alginate-encapsulated microgreens,and an aqueous reference standard mixture using the standardized INFOGEST digestion model.Alginate capsules exhibited significantly higher bioaccessible antioxidant activity by TPC assay(83.64%±9.02%)than raw microgreens(46.28%±1.35%,p<0.005)and aqueous mixture(0%).The DPPH assay showed a bioaccessibility of 19.69%±2.26%in raw mizuna and 0%in the aqueous mixture.However,individual phenolic compounds were more bioaccessible in raw microgreens(98.39±3.60 mg 100 g^(-1) DW)compared to alginate capsules(60.54±1.56 mg 100 g^(-1) DW)and aqueous mixture(0%),with flavanols predominating.Glucosinolates were 22%bioaccessible in alginate capsules but undetectable in raw red mizuna’s intestinal phase and aqueous mixture.Isothiocyanate concentrations were significantly higher in encapsulated microgreens(248.53±15.57μg g^(-1))than in raw microgreens(163.51±4.28μg g^(-1),p<0.005),while none were detected in the aqueous mixture.The reference standard mixture showed no bioaccessible compounds in any assay,highlighting the food matrix’s protective role.These findings suggest alginate encapsulation enhances glucosinolate and isothiocyanate bioaccessibility while protecting compounds during digestion.However,it may not favor the release of certain phenolics.This research provides insights into functional food development,indicating that encapsulation strategies could optimize the bioavailability of microgreen derived phytochemicals.展开更多
Hypertension remains a prevalent global health issue,with numerous strategies aimed at mitigating its widespread impact.Recently,there has been growing interest in developing nutraceuticals derived from natural bioact...Hypertension remains a prevalent global health issue,with numerous strategies aimed at mitigating its widespread impact.Recently,there has been growing interest in developing nutraceuticals derived from natural bioactive compounds with cardio-protective properties.Brassica microgreens—young,edible seedlings—are rich sources of phytochemicals,such as glucosinolates,which modulate the biological processes influencing CVDs.However,the underlying pathogenesis pathways are not yet fully understood.This study aims to investigate the effects of phytochemicals from brassica microgreens(MG)on both hypertension modulation and metabolic pathways.To achieve this,a dietary intervention using brassica microgreens was conducted on spontaneously hypertensive rats(SHR)and normotensive ones(WKY).The treatment involved a diet with 5%w/w of lyophilized brassica MG incorporated into the standard food(ad-libitum)of the animals,for either 24 h(acute treatment)or 4 weeks(chronic treatment).Systolic blood pressure and different oxidative/inflammatory markers were evaluated at the beginning and end of the treatment.Urine and plasma samples were collected posttreatment and analyzed using untargeted metabolomic approaches based on UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS to identify the metabolic pathways alterations induced by MG intake.Chronic treatment positively influenced hemodynamic parameters,which correlated with improvements in oxidative-inflammatory marker values.Metabolomics analysis provided a robust molecular characterization of normotensive,hypertensive,treated,and untreated groups with MG.Potential metabolites associated with brassica consumption,particularly cauliflower,were identified,such as sinigrin-derived and indolic metabolites,which may be linked to hypertension modulation.This study also highlighted the impact of lipid metabolism on the hypertensive phenotype,offering new insights into the physio-pathological metabolic pathways.From this,metabolomics shows potential to emerge as a novel tool for theragnosis in arterial hypertension.Moreover,the consumption of brassica microgreens may be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle,potentially offering a dietary strategy for cardiovascular risk prevention and management.展开更多
Background:Sustainable production of microscale and leafy vegetables,especially sprouts,microgreens,and baby greens in controlled environment agriculture,represents a key innovation of the 21st century.A controlled en...Background:Sustainable production of microscale and leafy vegetables,especially sprouts,microgreens,and baby greens in controlled environment agriculture,represents a key innovation of the 21st century.A controlled environment mimics natural growth conditions,enabling a year-round supply of leafy vegetables while ensuring standard quality and maximizing nutrient bioavailability.Scope and approach:This review comprehensively describes the most recent trends in indoor cultivation practices to enhance the quality and nutrient profile of microscale and leafy vegetables,emphasizing the role of technological innovations,substrate selection,artificial lighting,and other environmental factors.It also discussed the vital role of these vegetables in alleviating the triple burden of hunger and strengthening global food and nutrition security while catering to the rising demand for premium and health-promoting food products.Despite being an excellent alternative to conventional agriculture,limitations persist with CEA preventing its large-scale application globally;hence,challenges and prospects are also outlined in detail.Key findings and conclusion:Adopting environmentally sustainable technologies and soilless cultivation has created numerous opportunities for the efficient production of nutrient-dense sprouts,microgreens,and baby greens enriched with vitamins,protein,dietary fibers,phenolics,flavonoids,and antioxidants.These methods offer cost-effective solutions with minimal processing while reducing the harmful impact of soil-borne pathogens,pesticides,and climate change.Additionally,temperature modulation in specific ranges and artificial light sources,especially LED and UV-LED,have significantly proven efficient for indoor vertical farming.These sustainable practices tend to mitigate global food demand and address malnutrition deficiencies.展开更多
In recent years,changes in diet patterns and preferences for fresh food commodities,ready-to-eat food products,functional foods,and nutraceuticals have increased.Microgreens(young vegetable greens)are a relatively new...In recent years,changes in diet patterns and preferences for fresh food commodities,ready-to-eat food products,functional foods,and nutraceuticals have increased.Microgreens(young vegetable greens)are a relatively new form of product that has gained popularity and is also referred to as‘vegetable confetti’.It is used to improve the sensorial characteristics,viz.appearance and flavor of foods such as salads and main dishes.Compared with seeds and their mature counterparts,microgreens contain greater levels of functional nutrients(minerals,vitamins,antioxidants,and phenolic compounds).This comprehensive review briefly describes the different families of microgreens used for the cultivation of microscale products and highlights their health-promoting bioactive compounds,such as antioxidants,phenolics,pigments,minerals,and vitamins,which are critically associated with the sustainable developmental goals of good health and welfare.In addition to these important factors affecting the cultivation of microgreens,such as their species,type,growth medium,use of nutrients,biofortification,and use of advanced illumination systems,preharvest and postharvest factors affecting microgreens are also addressed.展开更多
As of recent,microgreen vegetable production in controlled environments are being investigated for their bioactive properties.Phytochemicals like glucosinolates(GLS)are highly sensitive to varying spectral qualities o...As of recent,microgreen vegetable production in controlled environments are being investigated for their bioactive properties.Phytochemicals like glucosinolates(GLS)are highly sensitive to varying spectral qualities of light,especially in leafy greens of Brassica where the responses are highly species-dependent.The accumulation of bioactive GLS were studied under 8 different treatments of combined amber(590 nm),blue(455 nm),and red(655 nm)light-emitting diodes(rbaLED).A semi-targeted metabolomics approach was carried out to profile common intact-GLS in microgreen extracts of Brassica by means of LC-HRMS/MS.Thirteen GLS were identified,among them were 8 aliphatic,4 indolic and 1 aromatic GLS.Mass spectrometry data showed sinigrin had the highest average concentration and was highest in B.juncea,progoitrin was highest in B.rapa and glucobrassicin in R.sativus.The individual and total GLS in the microgreens of the present study were largely different under rbaLED;B.rapa microgreens contained the highest profile of total GLS,followed by R.sativus and B.juncea.Sinigrin was increased and gluconasturtiin was decreased under rbaLED lighting in most microgreens,glucoalyssin uniquely increased in R.sativus and decreased in B.rapa and glucobrassicin uniquely decreased in both B.rapa and B.juncea.The present study showed that rbaLED contributed to the altered profiles of GLS resulting in their significant modulation.Optimizing the light spectrum for improved GLS biosynthesis could lead to production of microgreens with targeted health-promoting properties.展开更多
Ocimum Sanctum L.(Basil)is a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family.The composition of microgreens is influenced by environmental conditions.Consequently,Ocimum microgreens were cultivated under varying grow...Ocimum Sanctum L.(Basil)is a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family.The composition of microgreens is influenced by environmental conditions.Consequently,Ocimum microgreens were cultivated under varying growing conditions,assessing average height,total chlorophyll content,targeted compounds,and non-targeted UHPLC-QToF-IMS-based metabolomic profile.Under T3 growing condition(longer photoperiod of 22 h with 26℃ in light and 20℃ in the dark),Ocimum microgreens exhibited approximately 43%and 26%increases in average height and chlorophyll content,respectively.The targeted phenolic profile analysis identified gallic acid,caffeic acid,and resveratrol in microgreens.The growing conditions significantly influenced the phenolic profile.Also,sugar profiling indicated elevated levels of myo-inositol,glucose,fructose,sucrose,and D-raffinose under longer photoperiods with T3 conditions.Furthermore,microgreens exhibited a high abundance of amino acids such as aspartic acid,glutamic acid,proline,arginine,and phenylalanine.Notably,proline concentration increased from 13.40 mg/g to 25.15 mg/g in response to T3 growth condition.The comprehensive non-targeted UHPLC-QToF-IMS analysis revealed various metabolite classes,including organic compounds,phenolic and flavonoid derivatives,alkaloids,terpenoids,amino acids,sugars,polyalcohol and a few nucleic acid derivatives.Also,some organic acids,specifically rosmarinic acid,salvianolic acid D,and chicoric acid,showed highest expression level under T3 condition.展开更多
Microgreens,with their distinctive flavor and rapid growth,have garnered significant attention as a functional and nutritious food.In this study,we performed a thorough targeted metabolomic study using ultra-high-perf...Microgreens,with their distinctive flavor and rapid growth,have garnered significant attention as a functional and nutritious food.In this study,we performed a thorough targeted metabolomic study using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry(UPLC-QqQ-MS/MS)on four distinct cultivars of radish microgreens,namely Champion Radish(CR),White Radish(WR),Hailstone Radish(HR),and China Rose Radish(CRR),in order to better understand the metabolic foundation of the nutritional value of these microgreens.A total of 1411 metabolites were found and more than a third of the total number of metabolites were accounted for by flavonoids(FL),phenolic acids,lignans,coumarins and glucosinolates(GL).Significant variations were found in the differentially accumulated metabolites(DAM)and differentially expressed genes(DEG)in each pairwise comparison of cultivars,according to further comparative analysis.The comparison of CR with the other groups identified more than 400 DAM and about 10,000 DEG,the most abundant DAM being FL,and the results showed that CR was very different from WR,HR and CRR.A total of 33 GL were newly found in radish microgreens and classified into 8 categories according to their side chains.Weighted gene co-expression network analysis and biosynthetic pathway analysis revealed the distinctive relationship between gene expression levels and characteristic GL and FL.This work aimed to provide fresh insights into the differences in metabolite profiles among radish microgreens of various cultivars in addition to establishing a theoretical framework for improving the genetic quality of radish microgreens.展开更多
Although there have been large improvements to crop yield over time,this has not been accompanied by an increase in human nutritional wellbeing.In fact,there are worsening health crises associated with over-and under-...Although there have been large improvements to crop yield over time,this has not been accompanied by an increase in human nutritional wellbeing.In fact,there are worsening health crises associated with over-and under-consumption of particular food groups,resulting in negative human health outcomes.One solution to this is to utilize controlled environment agriculture to produce microgreens that have a high density of valuable Secondary Metabolites(SMs)such as antioxidants,phenolics,or pigment molecules that are associated with positive human health outcomes.However,optimal growth recipes to produce microgreens and their valuable nutritional compounds are not well known due to much species-specific variation,as well as biological tradeoffs between biomass and SM production.This is known as the growth defense hypothesis which describes how plants have a finite carbon budget from which to allocate to growth,or defensive,processes.To further research in this regard,this project used climate chambers to grow three species of Brassicaceae microgreens(kohlrabi,mustard,and radish)in highly controlled environmental conditions,where we used five Light Recipes,two fertilization levels,and two seeding density treatments.Our results showed that there were significant differences in SM production of these microgreens due to changes in incident light,as well as significant interactions between Fertilizer and Light Recipe for all SMs except Anthocyanins.For example,for all three species,the High Far-Red Light Recipe had the significantly highest Phenolic concentration,but with lower values of the other four SMs.The low-intensity 24-V high efficiency LEDs had the significantly highest Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity(TEAC)concentrations,while the High Red recipe had the highest Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power(FRAP)and Flavonoid concentrations.For Anthocyanins,there were less clear patterns,with the No Green or High Red recipes having generally higher concentrations,but not always significantly.We did find some evidence supporting the growth-defense hypothesis,where our higher biomass values were negatively correlated with SM concentrations.We also found significant differences between the concentrations of SMs in leaves and stems for kohlrabi and mustard microgreens.Finally,we found some significant relationships between increasing Fertilizer dosage and SMs,for instance that Flavonoids and FRAP concentrations increased with Fertilizer application,while Anthocyanin decreased,and Phenolic and TEAC had little effect.In conclusion,we found that there were significant relationships for Light Recipe and Fertilizer,and oftentimes their interaction,for the accumulation of SMs in Brassicaceae microgreens,which can inform microgreen production environments.展开更多
Pulse microgreens(mung bean,chickpea and lentil)were evaluated for compositional changes as a function of photoperiod.The pulse microgreens were cultivated under photoperiod of 16 and 22 h,with an optimum growing temp...Pulse microgreens(mung bean,chickpea and lentil)were evaluated for compositional changes as a function of photoperiod.The pulse microgreens were cultivated under photoperiod of 16 and 22 h,with an optimum growing temperature of 22℃ in light and 17℃ in dark in polypropylene trays containing moist cotton bed.The photoperiodic response of pulse microgreens in terms of plant height,chlorophyll content,antioxidant activity,phenolic profile,sugar profile and secondary metabolites were undertaken as the experimental factors.The targeted phenolic and sugar profile varied significantly with photoperiod.The various phenolic acids,especially chlorogenic acid and p-coumaric acid increased amongst different microgreens on extending photoperiod.The increase in sugar and their derivatives reflected the upregulation of carbohydrate metabolism under longer photoperiod.Also,the plant height,total chlorophyll content and antioxidant activity of pulse microgreen increased significantly on prolonging the photoperiod.The non-targeted analysis by UHPLC-QTOF LC/MS revealed the presence of secondary metabolites of five major classes,which were known to have beneficial effects in biological system.DIMBOA-glucoside,an organic compound was exclusively present in mung bean microgreens which further increased in longer photoperiod.The extraordinary supply of secondary metabolites makes the pulse microgreens excellent ingredient for therapeutic functional foods.展开更多
Microgreens are young,tender greens that are used to enhance the color,texture,or flavor of salads and main dishes.They can be grown in small scales and indoors,making them widely adopted by controlled environment agr...Microgreens are young,tender greens that are used to enhance the color,texture,or flavor of salads and main dishes.They can be grown in small scales and indoors,making them widely adopted by controlled environment agriculture,an indoor farming practice is particularly important for feeding increasing urban populations.Besides,microgreens are attracting more consumers’attention due to their high nutritional value and unique sensory characteristics.This review focuses on the nutrition quality,sensory evaluation,pre-and post-harvest interventions,and health benefits of microgreens.Microgreens are rich in vitamins(e.g.,VC),minerals(e.g.,copper and zinc),and phytochemicals,including carotenoids and phenolic compounds,which act as antioxidants in human body.Pre-harvest interventions,such as illumination,salinity stress,nutrient fortification,and natural substrates,infl uence the photosynthetic and metabolic activities of microgreens and were shown to improve their nutritional quality,while the effects varied among species.After harvesting,packaging method and storage temperature can infl uence the nutrient retention in microgreens.Both in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that microgreens have anti-infl ammatory,anti-cancer,anti-bacterial,and anti-hyperglycemia properties,making it a new functional food beneficial to human health.The sensory attributes and overall acceptability and liking of microgreens are primarily infl uenced by their phytochemical content.Microgreens are only getting popular during the last decades and research on microgreens is still at its early stage.More studies are warranted to optimize the pre-and post-harvest practices for nutrient enhancement and retention and to explore the potential health benefits of different microgreens for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases.展开更多
Fenugreek microgreens are prized for their quality,palatability,and nutritional contribution to functional foods.The present study investigated metabolomic profiling of the fenugreek microgreens and their substantial ...Fenugreek microgreens are prized for their quality,palatability,and nutritional contribution to functional foods.The present study investigated metabolomic profiling of the fenugreek microgreens and their substantial bioactive potential,including antioxidant,antibacterial,and combatting bacterial biofilms.Phytochemical screening revealed higher phenolic content in ethanol extract(54.0±2.4 mg GAE g^(-1)),and methanol extract was found to have elevated flavonoid and tannin content(68.3±1.4 mg QUE g^(-1),61.7±1.1 mg TAE g^(-1)).The methanol extract exhibited antioxidant potential by scavenging ABTS(75.5%,IC_(50):44.49μg mL^(-1)),DPPH(80.1%,IC_(50):3.85μg mL^(-1))and H_(2)O_(2)(59.3%,IC_(50):59.3μg mL^(-1))radicals,with a higher total antioxidant capacity(TAC)(90.6%).The ethyl acetate extract displayed effective antibacterial activity against Aeromonas hydrophila,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,and Staphylococcus aureus(19.75,20.70,and 24.4 mm).Furthermore,the MICs of the ethyl acetate extract exhibited significant antibiofilm activity,with a percentage inhibition of 62.3%,63.5%,and 70.4%against the tested pathogens.Microscopic observations and quantitative assays confirm the antibiofilm efficacy of ethyl acetate MIC against the tested pathogens.GC-MS and FT-IR spectroscopy were employed to determine the chemical compositions and profiling bioactive compounds of the extracts.The detected compounds such as 1-nonadecene,tetracosane,and eicosane,were linked to the observed antioxidant activity.Additionally,1,2-benzene dicarboxylic acid,diethyl ester,2-hydroxy propanoic acid,and 2-propenoic acid tridecyl ester hold antibacterial properties.This metabolomic exploration corroborates the biological attributes of fenugreek microgreens,highlighting their potential as a sustainable source of valuable nutraceutical bioactive compounds.The present study paves the way for future investigations to comprehensively explore the potential of fenugreek microgreens as a functional food source while necessitating clinical trials to validate these in vitro findings.展开更多
Experiments were performed from June 2014 to May 2015 at Penn State University’s greenhouse facilities in order to understand the production capacities and financial viability of an innovative growing system referred...Experiments were performed from June 2014 to May 2015 at Penn State University’s greenhouse facilities in order to understand the production capacities and financial viability of an innovative growing system referred to as the Rotating Living Wall produced by GreenTowers, a student innovation/entrepreneurship team. The system is a six-foot vertical conveyor that rotates troughs of microgreen plants to achieve even distribution of sunlight as well as relatively low maintenance within a minimal square foot area. Experiments were performed to understand differences in seasonal yields, differences in yields based on variety of microgreen, yield comparison to a traditionally grown microgreen control group;both on a yields per/trough method as well as a yields per/ft.2 method, rotational timing, moving versus stationary growth, differences in growth based on media depth, and differences in production yields from supplemental lighting. Performance criteria were based on measuring fresh weight, dry weight, height, and SPAD-meter readings (soil plant analysis development). Differences in yields throughout seasons were significant as well as differences between the Rotating Living Wall systems compared to a control group of traditional static greenhouse benches. The use of LED supplemental lighting provided significant differences in yields throughout winter season growing. Rotational timing, media depth, and physical movement of plants showed minimal or no significant influence on yields. By establishing the potential revenues and costs that were part of growing with the Rotating Living Wall system, financial viability was analyzed showing that these systems could be profitable when utilized in State College, PA, within certain operating parameters. The research completed throughout these studies has not only provided a baseline of operation for the systems but has also shown potential for the development of urban agricultural systems capable of aiding in the elimination of “food deserts” or urban neighborhoods and rural towns with limited food access.展开更多
With the growing global urban population and the emergence of megacities, there is a huge demand for arable land to meet the food demand and reduce malnutrition. Conventional agricultural practices lead to deforestati...With the growing global urban population and the emergence of megacities, there is a huge demand for arable land to meet the food demand and reduce malnutrition. Conventional agricultural practices lead to deforestation of the land for crop production and agricultural intensification to produce higher yield per unit area. These activities have been established to have negative impact on the environment thereby causing soil and water pollution. It is important to consider the use of vertical farming technology, which utilizes both horizontal and vertical space, and efficiently uses nutrients, water, and time (off season production with artificial lighting) more effectively to produce higher yield per unit volume of space than the conventional outdoor farming. Microgreens are taken into consideration to be grown under innovative vertical farming technology since they are rich in phytonutrients and they can be harvested in a short period of time. This paper reviews the current growing conditions of microgreens in vertical farming such as crop selection, media, light, nutrient solution, and containers while identifying knowledge gaps. Further, study in this area may lead to improved growing conditions to help solve the global issues and challenges surrounding food security, safety, and resource optimization.展开更多
In this study,metabolomic approaches were utilized to enhance the understanding of aroma characteristics,functional components,and nutritional variations in Mizuna at different growth stages.The analysis focused on ev...In this study,metabolomic approaches were utilized to enhance the understanding of aroma characteristics,functional components,and nutritional variations in Mizuna at different growth stages.The analysis focused on evaluating the profiles of volatile and non-volatile metabolites in Mizuna microgreens(MM)and Mizuna baby greens(MBG),with particular attention to their types and quantities.A comprehensive analysis identified 643 volatile and 1416 non-volatile metabolites,among which 132 volatile and 597 non-volatile differential metabolites were recognized as key metabolites associated with Mizuna at various maturity stages.Notably,16 glucosinolates exhibited significant differential expression between MM and MBG.Subsequently,a network pharmacology analysis was conducted to explore the potential therapeutic targets and pathways associated with the bioactive constituents relevant to type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)and obesity(OB),as identified through the metabolomic analysis.Through this network pharmacology analysis,10 core targets and their corresponding 24 bioactive compounds,including 4 flavonoids,4 phenolic acids,and 4 lignans and coumarins,were identified.Combined with molecular docking validation,it was predicted that the active constituents of Mizuna exhibit a strong affinity for their relevant targets in the context of T2DM and OB,suggesting potential therapeutic effects.We provide a theoretical framework for the application of MM and MBG as plant-based functional foods and medicinal food homology plants,characterized by their distinct flavor profiles,nutritional content,and healthpromoting properties.Furthermore,it provides novel insights by integrating foodomics and network pharmacology to advance the development of functional foods and disease treatment strategies.展开更多
Quinoa microgreen,as a nutrient-dense and health-promoting vegetable,contains abundant rhamnogalacturonan-I enriched pectic polysaccharides.However,their protective effects against ulcerative co-litis(UC)and the influ...Quinoa microgreen,as a nutrient-dense and health-promoting vegetable,contains abundant rhamnogalacturonan-I enriched pectic polysaccharides.However,their protective effects against ulcerative co-litis(UC)and the influence of structural features like degree of esterification(DE)are poorly understood.Consequently,to overcome this gap in understanding,we systematically assessed the anti-UC activity of quinoa microgreen pectic polysaccharides(QMP)exhibiting distinct DE levels:QMP-HDE(28.49%),QMP-MDE(16.8%),and QMP-LDE(4.4%).Results demonstrated that all these pectic polysaccharides significantly mitigated dextran sulfate sodium-induced UC through upregulating tight junction proteins,suppressing intestinal proinflammatory cytokines,promoting short-chain fatty acid production,and resorting gut microbiota homeosta-sis.Notably,low-DE QMP-LDE demonstrated superior efficacy to high-DE QMP-HDE in restoring intestinal barrier integrity(enhanced upregulation of tight junction proteins and reduced serum lipopolysaccharide)and in elevating anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10.Although all pectic polysaccharides suppressed pathogenic genera(Escherichia-Shigella,Klebsiella,and Helicobacter),they differentially modulated beneficial bacteria(Lactobacillus and Muribaculaceae).QMP-HDE selectively enhanced Lactobacillus abundance,whereas QMP-LDE specifically enriched Muribaculaceae.These differential effects among QMP-HDE and QMP-LDE are closely linked to their DE levels.Collectively,our findings shed light on the structure-anti-UC activity relationship of QMP pectic polysaccharides,supporting their potential application as functional foods to prevent intestinal in-flammatory disorders.展开更多
Plants have been utilized by humans throughout history for a variety of purposes,including sustenance and medicinal intentions.Since ancient times,wheatgrass has been utilized as a type of microgreen for therapeutic p...Plants have been utilized by humans throughout history for a variety of purposes,including sustenance and medicinal intentions.Since ancient times,wheatgrass has been utilized as a type of microgreen for therapeutic purposes.Phenolic flavonoids,vitamins,minerals,proteins and enzymes are all abundant in wheatgrass.These nutrients and bioactive substances enhanced wheatgrass’s therapeutic efficacy and made it a powerful antioxidant agent for the treatment of a range of diseases.it has been shown to have a wide variety of pharmacological potentials,including an antioxidative potential that helps to neutralize free radicals,anti-cancer,anti-ulcer,anti-diabetic,anti-arthritic,anti-microbial action,and many more.However,there is a dearth of scientific evidence to back up wheatgrass’s possible pharmacological effects and clinical value.To investigate its clinical utility for human welfare,in-depth research studies are needed.Through this analysis of the review literature,an attempt has been made to explain wheatgrass and its therapeutic potentials.展开更多
文摘Microgreens are young and tender vegetables or herbs that provide attractive color,flavor,and nutrition.The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nutritional and sensory qualities of broccoli microgreens grown by different methods(hydroponically vs.soil grown)and from different sources(commercial vs.local farm).No significant difference in total phenolic concentration and antioxidant capacity was found in all broccoli microgreens,but a significantly higher chlorophyll concentration was found in farm microgreens than the commercial ones.Moreover,the soil-grown farm microgreens possessed a significantly higher vitamin C concentration than hydroponically-grown farm sample and commercial sample.Participants in the sensory study favored farm samples regardless of growing method,and their overall liking was significantly correlated with taste of the microgreens.In addition,six other microgreens from the local farm were analyzed for their nutritional quality.These conclusions suggested a potential for consumers to still benefit nutritionally by purchasing commercial microgreens at a lower cost;however,it may be worthwhile for consumers to purchase microgreens from local farms for a better sensory experience.
基金supported by National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management,Kundli-131028,Sonipat,India,The NIFTEM communication number is NIFTEM-P-2025-76.
文摘Microgreens are emerging functional foods and are gaining popularity due to their high levels of phytochemicals,vitamins,and minerals.Controlled-environment agriculture(CEA),powered by energy-efficient light-emitting diodes(LEDs),has revolutionized microgreen production by enabling precise control of light parameters.This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current research(2015-2024)on the influence of LED spectral quality,intensity,and photoperiod on the biosynthesis of bioactive compounds and reduction of anti-nutritional factors especially nitrates and oxalates in microgreens.Key light-responsive phytochemicals discussed include phenolics,carotenoids,glucosinolates,vitamins,and antioxidants,with a focus on species-specific responses.The review delves into the mechanistic basis of LED elicitation,highlighting the roles of photoreceptors,transcription factors(e.g.,HY5,PIF),and associated gene expression pathways.Further,the integration of transcriptomic and metabolomic data is examined to provide molecular-level insights into light-regulated secondary metabolism.Environmental sustainability is critically assessed,considering LED energy efficiency,life span,and their po-tential to reduce the carbon footprint of controlled-environment agriculture systems.The review concludes by identifying research gaps,proposing standardized light protocols,gene-light interaction models,and sustainable microgreen farming practices for urban and vertical agriculture.
基金supported by grants from the National Agency for the Promotion of Research,Technological Development and Innovation ANPCyT FONCyT-Argentina,Grant PICT 2019-03278from the National Scientific and Technical Research Council(CONICET,Argentina),Grant PIP 11220200101692CO.
文摘Microgreens of the Brassicaceae family have garnered considerable interest due to their higher phytochemical content compared to their mature counterparts.These bioactive compounds include phenolic compounds,glucosinolates,and isothiocyanates.This study evaluated their bioaccessibility and antioxidant capacity in red mizuna microgreens,sodium alginate-encapsulated microgreens,and an aqueous reference standard mixture using the standardized INFOGEST digestion model.Alginate capsules exhibited significantly higher bioaccessible antioxidant activity by TPC assay(83.64%±9.02%)than raw microgreens(46.28%±1.35%,p<0.005)and aqueous mixture(0%).The DPPH assay showed a bioaccessibility of 19.69%±2.26%in raw mizuna and 0%in the aqueous mixture.However,individual phenolic compounds were more bioaccessible in raw microgreens(98.39±3.60 mg 100 g^(-1) DW)compared to alginate capsules(60.54±1.56 mg 100 g^(-1) DW)and aqueous mixture(0%),with flavanols predominating.Glucosinolates were 22%bioaccessible in alginate capsules but undetectable in raw red mizuna’s intestinal phase and aqueous mixture.Isothiocyanate concentrations were significantly higher in encapsulated microgreens(248.53±15.57μg g^(-1))than in raw microgreens(163.51±4.28μg g^(-1),p<0.005),while none were detected in the aqueous mixture.The reference standard mixture showed no bioaccessible compounds in any assay,highlighting the food matrix’s protective role.These findings suggest alginate encapsulation enhances glucosinolate and isothiocyanate bioaccessibility while protecting compounds during digestion.However,it may not favor the release of certain phenolics.This research provides insights into functional food development,indicating that encapsulation strategies could optimize the bioavailability of microgreen derived phytochemicals.
基金supported by grants from the National Agency for the Promotion of Research,Technological Development and Innovation ANPCyT FONCyT-Argentina,Grant PICT 2019-03278the National Scientific and Technical Research Council(CONICET,Argentina),Grant PIP 11220200101692CO.
文摘Hypertension remains a prevalent global health issue,with numerous strategies aimed at mitigating its widespread impact.Recently,there has been growing interest in developing nutraceuticals derived from natural bioactive compounds with cardio-protective properties.Brassica microgreens—young,edible seedlings—are rich sources of phytochemicals,such as glucosinolates,which modulate the biological processes influencing CVDs.However,the underlying pathogenesis pathways are not yet fully understood.This study aims to investigate the effects of phytochemicals from brassica microgreens(MG)on both hypertension modulation and metabolic pathways.To achieve this,a dietary intervention using brassica microgreens was conducted on spontaneously hypertensive rats(SHR)and normotensive ones(WKY).The treatment involved a diet with 5%w/w of lyophilized brassica MG incorporated into the standard food(ad-libitum)of the animals,for either 24 h(acute treatment)or 4 weeks(chronic treatment).Systolic blood pressure and different oxidative/inflammatory markers were evaluated at the beginning and end of the treatment.Urine and plasma samples were collected posttreatment and analyzed using untargeted metabolomic approaches based on UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS to identify the metabolic pathways alterations induced by MG intake.Chronic treatment positively influenced hemodynamic parameters,which correlated with improvements in oxidative-inflammatory marker values.Metabolomics analysis provided a robust molecular characterization of normotensive,hypertensive,treated,and untreated groups with MG.Potential metabolites associated with brassica consumption,particularly cauliflower,were identified,such as sinigrin-derived and indolic metabolites,which may be linked to hypertension modulation.This study also highlighted the impact of lipid metabolism on the hypertensive phenotype,offering new insights into the physio-pathological metabolic pathways.From this,metabolomics shows potential to emerge as a novel tool for theragnosis in arterial hypertension.Moreover,the consumption of brassica microgreens may be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle,potentially offering a dietary strategy for cardiovascular risk prevention and management.
基金NSFDCUGC,New Delhi,India,for their valuable financial support。
文摘Background:Sustainable production of microscale and leafy vegetables,especially sprouts,microgreens,and baby greens in controlled environment agriculture,represents a key innovation of the 21st century.A controlled environment mimics natural growth conditions,enabling a year-round supply of leafy vegetables while ensuring standard quality and maximizing nutrient bioavailability.Scope and approach:This review comprehensively describes the most recent trends in indoor cultivation practices to enhance the quality and nutrient profile of microscale and leafy vegetables,emphasizing the role of technological innovations,substrate selection,artificial lighting,and other environmental factors.It also discussed the vital role of these vegetables in alleviating the triple burden of hunger and strengthening global food and nutrition security while catering to the rising demand for premium and health-promoting food products.Despite being an excellent alternative to conventional agriculture,limitations persist with CEA preventing its large-scale application globally;hence,challenges and prospects are also outlined in detail.Key findings and conclusion:Adopting environmentally sustainable technologies and soilless cultivation has created numerous opportunities for the efficient production of nutrient-dense sprouts,microgreens,and baby greens enriched with vitamins,protein,dietary fibers,phenolics,flavonoids,and antioxidants.These methods offer cost-effective solutions with minimal processing while reducing the harmful impact of soil-borne pathogens,pesticides,and climate change.Additionally,temperature modulation in specific ranges and artificial light sources,especially LED and UV-LED,have significantly proven efficient for indoor vertical farming.These sustainable practices tend to mitigate global food demand and address malnutrition deficiencies.
文摘In recent years,changes in diet patterns and preferences for fresh food commodities,ready-to-eat food products,functional foods,and nutraceuticals have increased.Microgreens(young vegetable greens)are a relatively new form of product that has gained popularity and is also referred to as‘vegetable confetti’.It is used to improve the sensorial characteristics,viz.appearance and flavor of foods such as salads and main dishes.Compared with seeds and their mature counterparts,microgreens contain greater levels of functional nutrients(minerals,vitamins,antioxidants,and phenolic compounds).This comprehensive review briefly describes the different families of microgreens used for the cultivation of microscale products and highlights their health-promoting bioactive compounds,such as antioxidants,phenolics,pigments,minerals,and vitamins,which are critically associated with the sustainable developmental goals of good health and welfare.In addition to these important factors affecting the cultivation of microgreens,such as their species,type,growth medium,use of nutrients,biofortification,and use of advanced illumination systems,preharvest and postharvest factors affecting microgreens are also addressed.
基金supported by the A-base funds of Agriculture&Agri-food Canada(AAFC).Project#J-001328.001.04 and#J-002228.001.07.
文摘As of recent,microgreen vegetable production in controlled environments are being investigated for their bioactive properties.Phytochemicals like glucosinolates(GLS)are highly sensitive to varying spectral qualities of light,especially in leafy greens of Brassica where the responses are highly species-dependent.The accumulation of bioactive GLS were studied under 8 different treatments of combined amber(590 nm),blue(455 nm),and red(655 nm)light-emitting diodes(rbaLED).A semi-targeted metabolomics approach was carried out to profile common intact-GLS in microgreen extracts of Brassica by means of LC-HRMS/MS.Thirteen GLS were identified,among them were 8 aliphatic,4 indolic and 1 aromatic GLS.Mass spectrometry data showed sinigrin had the highest average concentration and was highest in B.juncea,progoitrin was highest in B.rapa and glucobrassicin in R.sativus.The individual and total GLS in the microgreens of the present study were largely different under rbaLED;B.rapa microgreens contained the highest profile of total GLS,followed by R.sativus and B.juncea.Sinigrin was increased and gluconasturtiin was decreased under rbaLED lighting in most microgreens,glucoalyssin uniquely increased in R.sativus and decreased in B.rapa and glucobrassicin uniquely decreased in both B.rapa and B.juncea.The present study showed that rbaLED contributed to the altered profiles of GLS resulting in their significant modulation.Optimizing the light spectrum for improved GLS biosynthesis could lead to production of microgreens with targeted health-promoting properties.
基金financial assistance from SERB in the form of JC Bose National Fellowship and the support from Dr.Sanjay Kumar,Former Director,CSIR-IHBT,Palampur for allowing to use UHPLC-QToF-IMS facility.
文摘Ocimum Sanctum L.(Basil)is a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family.The composition of microgreens is influenced by environmental conditions.Consequently,Ocimum microgreens were cultivated under varying growing conditions,assessing average height,total chlorophyll content,targeted compounds,and non-targeted UHPLC-QToF-IMS-based metabolomic profile.Under T3 growing condition(longer photoperiod of 22 h with 26℃ in light and 20℃ in the dark),Ocimum microgreens exhibited approximately 43%and 26%increases in average height and chlorophyll content,respectively.The targeted phenolic profile analysis identified gallic acid,caffeic acid,and resveratrol in microgreens.The growing conditions significantly influenced the phenolic profile.Also,sugar profiling indicated elevated levels of myo-inositol,glucose,fructose,sucrose,and D-raffinose under longer photoperiods with T3 conditions.Furthermore,microgreens exhibited a high abundance of amino acids such as aspartic acid,glutamic acid,proline,arginine,and phenylalanine.Notably,proline concentration increased from 13.40 mg/g to 25.15 mg/g in response to T3 growth condition.The comprehensive non-targeted UHPLC-QToF-IMS analysis revealed various metabolite classes,including organic compounds,phenolic and flavonoid derivatives,alkaloids,terpenoids,amino acids,sugars,polyalcohol and a few nucleic acid derivatives.Also,some organic acids,specifically rosmarinic acid,salvianolic acid D,and chicoric acid,showed highest expression level under T3 condition.
基金financially supported by the Research Program Sponsored by the State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science of China,Gansu Agricultural University,China(GSCS-2020-5)the Youth Science and Technology Talent Innovation Program of Lanzhou City(2023-QN-58)the Developmental Funds of Innovation Capacity in Higher Education of Gansu,China(2022B-095).
文摘Microgreens,with their distinctive flavor and rapid growth,have garnered significant attention as a functional and nutritious food.In this study,we performed a thorough targeted metabolomic study using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry(UPLC-QqQ-MS/MS)on four distinct cultivars of radish microgreens,namely Champion Radish(CR),White Radish(WR),Hailstone Radish(HR),and China Rose Radish(CRR),in order to better understand the metabolic foundation of the nutritional value of these microgreens.A total of 1411 metabolites were found and more than a third of the total number of metabolites were accounted for by flavonoids(FL),phenolic acids,lignans,coumarins and glucosinolates(GL).Significant variations were found in the differentially accumulated metabolites(DAM)and differentially expressed genes(DEG)in each pairwise comparison of cultivars,according to further comparative analysis.The comparison of CR with the other groups identified more than 400 DAM and about 10,000 DEG,the most abundant DAM being FL,and the results showed that CR was very different from WR,HR and CRR.A total of 33 GL were newly found in radish microgreens and classified into 8 categories according to their side chains.Weighted gene co-expression network analysis and biosynthetic pathway analysis revealed the distinctive relationship between gene expression levels and characteristic GL and FL.This work aimed to provide fresh insights into the differences in metabolite profiles among radish microgreens of various cultivars in addition to establishing a theoretical framework for improving the genetic quality of radish microgreens.
基金This study was conducted during the‘GOhydro’project(journal number:34009-20-1815)which was a part of the ERA-NET Cofund ICT-AGRI-FOOD with funding provided by national sources[i.e.,the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation in Greece+2 种基金the Green Development and Demonstration Program(GUDP),under The Ministry of Food,Agriculture and Fisheries of Denmarkthe Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture in Germanythe Executive Agency for Higher Education,Research,Development,and Innovation Funding in Romania]and co-funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program,Grant Agreement number 862665.
文摘Although there have been large improvements to crop yield over time,this has not been accompanied by an increase in human nutritional wellbeing.In fact,there are worsening health crises associated with over-and under-consumption of particular food groups,resulting in negative human health outcomes.One solution to this is to utilize controlled environment agriculture to produce microgreens that have a high density of valuable Secondary Metabolites(SMs)such as antioxidants,phenolics,or pigment molecules that are associated with positive human health outcomes.However,optimal growth recipes to produce microgreens and their valuable nutritional compounds are not well known due to much species-specific variation,as well as biological tradeoffs between biomass and SM production.This is known as the growth defense hypothesis which describes how plants have a finite carbon budget from which to allocate to growth,or defensive,processes.To further research in this regard,this project used climate chambers to grow three species of Brassicaceae microgreens(kohlrabi,mustard,and radish)in highly controlled environmental conditions,where we used five Light Recipes,two fertilization levels,and two seeding density treatments.Our results showed that there were significant differences in SM production of these microgreens due to changes in incident light,as well as significant interactions between Fertilizer and Light Recipe for all SMs except Anthocyanins.For example,for all three species,the High Far-Red Light Recipe had the significantly highest Phenolic concentration,but with lower values of the other four SMs.The low-intensity 24-V high efficiency LEDs had the significantly highest Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity(TEAC)concentrations,while the High Red recipe had the highest Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power(FRAP)and Flavonoid concentrations.For Anthocyanins,there were less clear patterns,with the No Green or High Red recipes having generally higher concentrations,but not always significantly.We did find some evidence supporting the growth-defense hypothesis,where our higher biomass values were negatively correlated with SM concentrations.We also found significant differences between the concentrations of SMs in leaves and stems for kohlrabi and mustard microgreens.Finally,we found some significant relationships between increasing Fertilizer dosage and SMs,for instance that Flavonoids and FRAP concentrations increased with Fertilizer application,while Anthocyanin decreased,and Phenolic and TEAC had little effect.In conclusion,we found that there were significant relationships for Light Recipe and Fertilizer,and oftentimes their interaction,for the accumulation of SMs in Brassicaceae microgreens,which can inform microgreen production environments.
文摘Pulse microgreens(mung bean,chickpea and lentil)were evaluated for compositional changes as a function of photoperiod.The pulse microgreens were cultivated under photoperiod of 16 and 22 h,with an optimum growing temperature of 22℃ in light and 17℃ in dark in polypropylene trays containing moist cotton bed.The photoperiodic response of pulse microgreens in terms of plant height,chlorophyll content,antioxidant activity,phenolic profile,sugar profile and secondary metabolites were undertaken as the experimental factors.The targeted phenolic and sugar profile varied significantly with photoperiod.The various phenolic acids,especially chlorogenic acid and p-coumaric acid increased amongst different microgreens on extending photoperiod.The increase in sugar and their derivatives reflected the upregulation of carbohydrate metabolism under longer photoperiod.Also,the plant height,total chlorophyll content and antioxidant activity of pulse microgreen increased significantly on prolonging the photoperiod.The non-targeted analysis by UHPLC-QTOF LC/MS revealed the presence of secondary metabolites of five major classes,which were known to have beneficial effects in biological system.DIMBOA-glucoside,an organic compound was exclusively present in mung bean microgreens which further increased in longer photoperiod.The extraordinary supply of secondary metabolites makes the pulse microgreens excellent ingredient for therapeutic functional foods.
基金funded by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service,Specialty Crop Block Grant Program,as USDA-AMS award#AM190100XXXXG055.
文摘Microgreens are young,tender greens that are used to enhance the color,texture,or flavor of salads and main dishes.They can be grown in small scales and indoors,making them widely adopted by controlled environment agriculture,an indoor farming practice is particularly important for feeding increasing urban populations.Besides,microgreens are attracting more consumers’attention due to their high nutritional value and unique sensory characteristics.This review focuses on the nutrition quality,sensory evaluation,pre-and post-harvest interventions,and health benefits of microgreens.Microgreens are rich in vitamins(e.g.,VC),minerals(e.g.,copper and zinc),and phytochemicals,including carotenoids and phenolic compounds,which act as antioxidants in human body.Pre-harvest interventions,such as illumination,salinity stress,nutrient fortification,and natural substrates,infl uence the photosynthetic and metabolic activities of microgreens and were shown to improve their nutritional quality,while the effects varied among species.After harvesting,packaging method and storage temperature can infl uence the nutrient retention in microgreens.Both in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that microgreens have anti-infl ammatory,anti-cancer,anti-bacterial,and anti-hyperglycemia properties,making it a new functional food beneficial to human health.The sensory attributes and overall acceptability and liking of microgreens are primarily infl uenced by their phytochemical content.Microgreens are only getting popular during the last decades and research on microgreens is still at its early stage.More studies are warranted to optimize the pre-and post-harvest practices for nutrient enhancement and retention and to explore the potential health benefits of different microgreens for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases.
文摘Fenugreek microgreens are prized for their quality,palatability,and nutritional contribution to functional foods.The present study investigated metabolomic profiling of the fenugreek microgreens and their substantial bioactive potential,including antioxidant,antibacterial,and combatting bacterial biofilms.Phytochemical screening revealed higher phenolic content in ethanol extract(54.0±2.4 mg GAE g^(-1)),and methanol extract was found to have elevated flavonoid and tannin content(68.3±1.4 mg QUE g^(-1),61.7±1.1 mg TAE g^(-1)).The methanol extract exhibited antioxidant potential by scavenging ABTS(75.5%,IC_(50):44.49μg mL^(-1)),DPPH(80.1%,IC_(50):3.85μg mL^(-1))and H_(2)O_(2)(59.3%,IC_(50):59.3μg mL^(-1))radicals,with a higher total antioxidant capacity(TAC)(90.6%).The ethyl acetate extract displayed effective antibacterial activity against Aeromonas hydrophila,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,and Staphylococcus aureus(19.75,20.70,and 24.4 mm).Furthermore,the MICs of the ethyl acetate extract exhibited significant antibiofilm activity,with a percentage inhibition of 62.3%,63.5%,and 70.4%against the tested pathogens.Microscopic observations and quantitative assays confirm the antibiofilm efficacy of ethyl acetate MIC against the tested pathogens.GC-MS and FT-IR spectroscopy were employed to determine the chemical compositions and profiling bioactive compounds of the extracts.The detected compounds such as 1-nonadecene,tetracosane,and eicosane,were linked to the observed antioxidant activity.Additionally,1,2-benzene dicarboxylic acid,diethyl ester,2-hydroxy propanoic acid,and 2-propenoic acid tridecyl ester hold antibacterial properties.This metabolomic exploration corroborates the biological attributes of fenugreek microgreens,highlighting their potential as a sustainable source of valuable nutraceutical bioactive compounds.The present study paves the way for future investigations to comprehensively explore the potential of fenugreek microgreens as a functional food source while necessitating clinical trials to validate these in vitro findings.
文摘Experiments were performed from June 2014 to May 2015 at Penn State University’s greenhouse facilities in order to understand the production capacities and financial viability of an innovative growing system referred to as the Rotating Living Wall produced by GreenTowers, a student innovation/entrepreneurship team. The system is a six-foot vertical conveyor that rotates troughs of microgreen plants to achieve even distribution of sunlight as well as relatively low maintenance within a minimal square foot area. Experiments were performed to understand differences in seasonal yields, differences in yields based on variety of microgreen, yield comparison to a traditionally grown microgreen control group;both on a yields per/trough method as well as a yields per/ft.2 method, rotational timing, moving versus stationary growth, differences in growth based on media depth, and differences in production yields from supplemental lighting. Performance criteria were based on measuring fresh weight, dry weight, height, and SPAD-meter readings (soil plant analysis development). Differences in yields throughout seasons were significant as well as differences between the Rotating Living Wall systems compared to a control group of traditional static greenhouse benches. The use of LED supplemental lighting provided significant differences in yields throughout winter season growing. Rotational timing, media depth, and physical movement of plants showed minimal or no significant influence on yields. By establishing the potential revenues and costs that were part of growing with the Rotating Living Wall system, financial viability was analyzed showing that these systems could be profitable when utilized in State College, PA, within certain operating parameters. The research completed throughout these studies has not only provided a baseline of operation for the systems but has also shown potential for the development of urban agricultural systems capable of aiding in the elimination of “food deserts” or urban neighborhoods and rural towns with limited food access.
文摘With the growing global urban population and the emergence of megacities, there is a huge demand for arable land to meet the food demand and reduce malnutrition. Conventional agricultural practices lead to deforestation of the land for crop production and agricultural intensification to produce higher yield per unit area. These activities have been established to have negative impact on the environment thereby causing soil and water pollution. It is important to consider the use of vertical farming technology, which utilizes both horizontal and vertical space, and efficiently uses nutrients, water, and time (off season production with artificial lighting) more effectively to produce higher yield per unit volume of space than the conventional outdoor farming. Microgreens are taken into consideration to be grown under innovative vertical farming technology since they are rich in phytonutrients and they can be harvested in a short period of time. This paper reviews the current growing conditions of microgreens in vertical farming such as crop selection, media, light, nutrient solution, and containers while identifying knowledge gaps. Further, study in this area may lead to improved growing conditions to help solve the global issues and challenges surrounding food security, safety, and resource optimization.
基金supported by the Youth Science and Technology Talent Innovation Program of Lanzhou City(2023-QN-58)the Youth Supervisor Foundation of Gansu Agricultural University(GAU-QDFC-2024-11)+1 种基金the Gansu Provincial Major Science and Technology Project(22ZD6NA009)the Research Program Sponsored by the State Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science of China,Gansu Agricultural University,China(GSCS-2020-5).
文摘In this study,metabolomic approaches were utilized to enhance the understanding of aroma characteristics,functional components,and nutritional variations in Mizuna at different growth stages.The analysis focused on evaluating the profiles of volatile and non-volatile metabolites in Mizuna microgreens(MM)and Mizuna baby greens(MBG),with particular attention to their types and quantities.A comprehensive analysis identified 643 volatile and 1416 non-volatile metabolites,among which 132 volatile and 597 non-volatile differential metabolites were recognized as key metabolites associated with Mizuna at various maturity stages.Notably,16 glucosinolates exhibited significant differential expression between MM and MBG.Subsequently,a network pharmacology analysis was conducted to explore the potential therapeutic targets and pathways associated with the bioactive constituents relevant to type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)and obesity(OB),as identified through the metabolomic analysis.Through this network pharmacology analysis,10 core targets and their corresponding 24 bioactive compounds,including 4 flavonoids,4 phenolic acids,and 4 lignans and coumarins,were identified.Combined with molecular docking validation,it was predicted that the active constituents of Mizuna exhibit a strong affinity for their relevant targets in the context of T2DM and OB,suggesting potential therapeutic effects.We provide a theoretical framework for the application of MM and MBG as plant-based functional foods and medicinal food homology plants,characterized by their distinct flavor profiles,nutritional content,and healthpromoting properties.Furthermore,it provides novel insights by integrating foodomics and network pharmacology to advance the development of functional foods and disease treatment strategies.
基金supported by the Scientific Research Fund Project of the Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province(No.2024NSFSC0363)the Earmarked Fund for Sichuan Coarse Cereal Innovation Team Program of CARS(No.SCCXTD-2024-20).
文摘Quinoa microgreen,as a nutrient-dense and health-promoting vegetable,contains abundant rhamnogalacturonan-I enriched pectic polysaccharides.However,their protective effects against ulcerative co-litis(UC)and the influence of structural features like degree of esterification(DE)are poorly understood.Consequently,to overcome this gap in understanding,we systematically assessed the anti-UC activity of quinoa microgreen pectic polysaccharides(QMP)exhibiting distinct DE levels:QMP-HDE(28.49%),QMP-MDE(16.8%),and QMP-LDE(4.4%).Results demonstrated that all these pectic polysaccharides significantly mitigated dextran sulfate sodium-induced UC through upregulating tight junction proteins,suppressing intestinal proinflammatory cytokines,promoting short-chain fatty acid production,and resorting gut microbiota homeosta-sis.Notably,low-DE QMP-LDE demonstrated superior efficacy to high-DE QMP-HDE in restoring intestinal barrier integrity(enhanced upregulation of tight junction proteins and reduced serum lipopolysaccharide)and in elevating anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10.Although all pectic polysaccharides suppressed pathogenic genera(Escherichia-Shigella,Klebsiella,and Helicobacter),they differentially modulated beneficial bacteria(Lactobacillus and Muribaculaceae).QMP-HDE selectively enhanced Lactobacillus abundance,whereas QMP-LDE specifically enriched Muribaculaceae.These differential effects among QMP-HDE and QMP-LDE are closely linked to their DE levels.Collectively,our findings shed light on the structure-anti-UC activity relationship of QMP pectic polysaccharides,supporting their potential application as functional foods to prevent intestinal in-flammatory disorders.
文摘Plants have been utilized by humans throughout history for a variety of purposes,including sustenance and medicinal intentions.Since ancient times,wheatgrass has been utilized as a type of microgreen for therapeutic purposes.Phenolic flavonoids,vitamins,minerals,proteins and enzymes are all abundant in wheatgrass.These nutrients and bioactive substances enhanced wheatgrass’s therapeutic efficacy and made it a powerful antioxidant agent for the treatment of a range of diseases.it has been shown to have a wide variety of pharmacological potentials,including an antioxidative potential that helps to neutralize free radicals,anti-cancer,anti-ulcer,anti-diabetic,anti-arthritic,anti-microbial action,and many more.However,there is a dearth of scientific evidence to back up wheatgrass’s possible pharmacological effects and clinical value.To investigate its clinical utility for human welfare,in-depth research studies are needed.Through this analysis of the review literature,an attempt has been made to explain wheatgrass and its therapeutic potentials.
