Diversification of health-promoting phytochemicals in radish (Raphanus raphanistrum) and kale (Brassica oleracea) micro-greens using high light bio-fortification

Abstract

Background: Fruits and vegetables contain significant amounts of biologically active phytochemicals (such as polyphenols, glucosinolates, phytoestrogens, and carotenoids, amongst others), which have associated with human health and nutrition. Numerous bio-fortification strategies are employed to enhance the nutritional profile of plant-based foods to address and minimize the severe outcomes of malnutrition.Methods: Using an established high light-induced bio-fortification strategy, we aimed to augment the accumulation of health-promoting phytochemicals in a selection of Brassica micro-greens (kale and radish). High throughput tandem mass spectrometry was used to identify the differential accumulation of phytochemicals and subsequently determined their antioxidant capacity. Using a classical DNA protection assay, we demonstrated that human genomic DNA could be protected from oxidative stress.Results: We report here on the potential link between the increased phytochemicals, total antioxidant, capacity and potential consequent role in human DNA protection.Conclusion: Bio-fortification implemented as a future strategy could enhance the phytochemical profile and consequent antioxidant potential for the development of functional foods and food supplements.Keywords: antioxidant, bio-fortification, Brassica, DNA protection, high light, micro-greens, phytochemicals

Jens Kossmann 1963-2023 – a scientist with a passion for plant biology and people

“…These studies have provided some idea as to why the substance lumichrome improves growth and has identified potential genetic targets for manipulation. He was also involved in studies trying to improve the content of plants through influencing vitamin c contents by genetic engineering (Keller et al, 1999;Cronje et al, 2011) or by examining nutrients in microgreens grown under different light conditions (Xonti et al, 2020).…”