Protein Mass Fingerprinting and Antioxidant Power of Hemp Seeds in Relation to Plant Cultivar and Environment

Abstract

Cannabis sativa (hemp) seeds are considered a functional food for their favorable contents of essential fatty acids, proteins and antioxidants. Beyond phenolics and carotenoids, the bioactivity of proteins has recently been investigated. However, plant genotype and environmental conditions can affect quantity and quality of macronutrients and phytochemicals in seeds, influencing their nutraceutical properties. In this study, the effects of plant variety and seed origin on the protein profile and antioxidant activity of hemp seeds were evaluated. Seeds from two cultivars, Secuieni Jubileu and Finola, were harvested from a mountain field located in Italy and compared with reference seeds used for sowing. Albumin and globulin extracts were obtained using the Osborne method and their antioxidant power was assayed (DPPH and ABTS methods). A matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry method was developed for protein fingerprinting analysis. Albumins from seeds of the mountain site showed higher radical scavenging activity and compounds of lower molecular weight than reference seeds, suggesting a role of proteins in the observed bioactivity. The MALDI-TOF method discriminated samples according to origin and variety, highlighting changes in the protein profile and identifying signals which could be used as markers of hemp cultivars.

Cannabis sativa(Hemp) seed-derived peptides WVYY and PSLPA modulate the Nrf2 signaling pathway in human keratinocytes

“…Hemp seeds also exhibit antioxidant properties. Cattaneo et al reported that minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium are found in hemp seeds, alongside phytochemicals with antioxidant activity, such as tocopherols and lignan derivatives [11] Additionally, Giacomo et al reported the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of hemp water extract on mouse fibroblasts and keratinocytes via metabolomic profiling [12]. Similarly, there are numerous reports on the antioxidant or other beneficial effects of hemp derivatives, such as extracts and oil, especially on the skin, and for cosmetic applications [13][14][15][16].…”

Cannabis sativa (Hemp) seed-derived peptides WVYY and PSLPA modulate the Nrf2 signaling pathway in human keratinocytes

“…Hemp seeds also exhibit antioxidant properties. Cattaneo et al reported that minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium are found in hemp seeds, alongside phytochemicals with antioxidant activity, such as tocopherols and lignan derivatives [ 11 ] Additionally, Giacomo et al reported the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of hemp water extract on mouse fibroblasts and keratinocytes via metabolomic profiling [ 12 ]. Similarly, there are numerous reports on the antioxidant or other beneficial effects of hemp derivatives, such as extracts and oil, especially on the skin, and for cosmetic applications [ 13 – 16 ].…”