Publications by authors named "D Restuccia"
The huge amount of citrus peel produced worldwide represents an economic burden for society. However, this agricultural by-product is a rich source of natural molecules, potentially endowed with interesting pharmacological activities. In this regard, we decided to investigate if the polymethoxyflavones contained in citrus peel waste could be exploited as novel vasorelaxant agents.
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- - MYCN amplification is linked to poor outcomes in childhood neuroblastoma and the study investigates the signaling dependencies associated with it through genetic manipulation in mice.
- - A mutation in the RNF121 gene was found to result in decreased tumor formation, with RNF121 playing a crucial role in enhancing MYCN protein stability and contributing to tumor growth.
- - Elevated RNF121 levels correlate with poor prognosis in neuroblastoma and laryngeal cancer, suggesting it as a potential target for new cancer therapies.
The rising demand for healthier alternatives to traditional sugary products has driven the exploration of natural substitutes for sucrose. This study aimed to investigate carob pulp flour (CPF) as a viable alternative to sucrose in the production of high-value jellies with enhanced health benefits. Carob pulp flour was spectroscopically characterized, revealing the presence of bioactive molecules, such as natural antidiabetic polyols and polyphenols.
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- Carob pulp flour, derived from the pods of the carob tree, is packed with fibers, naturally sweet, and exhibits antidiabetic and antioxidant properties, influencing the glycemic index of foods.
- The study explored a gluten-free bakery product made with 40% carob pulp flour, where experts noted it was dark, dense, and sweet, though consumer appreciation was modest, averaging between 4 to 5 points on a 9-point scale.
- Consumers' awareness of the product's health benefits did not significantly improve their perception, with prior knowledge of carob's properties being more influential; packaging also played a critical role in maintaining product quality over time.
In recent years, there has been a concerning surge in waste generation, with agri-food waste emerging as a significant issue across various stages of the food supply chain [...
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