Biological Activities of Camelina and Sophia Seeds Phenolics: Inhibition of LDL Oxidation, DNA Damage, and Pancreatic Lipase and α‐Glucosidase Activities

The free, esterified and insoluble‐bound phenolics of defatted meals of camelina and sophia seeds were extracted using an ultrasonic‐assisted procedure and alkaline hydrolysis. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were evaluated using DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays as well as inhibition of bleaching of β‐carotene in an oil‐in‐water system. Moreover, inhibition activity against pancreatic lipase, α‐glucosidase, low density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation and DNA damage induced by peroxyl and hydroxyl radicals were examined for all seed extracts using in vitro systems. The seed extracts of camelina and sophia not only showed significant antioxidant activity but also inhibited pancreatic lipase and α‐glucosidase activities effectively. These enzymes in the digestive tract are associated with lipid and carbohydrate digestion, respectively, and control obesity and blood glucose level in the human body. The findings of this work may provide supporting information that camelina and sophia meals may inhibit human LDL oxidation and DNA nicking caused by free radicals and upon consumption may also exert anti‐obesity and antidiabetic effects. However, further research is required to confirm these biological activities in vivo. Practical Application The seed phenolic extracts of camelina and sophia not only showed significant antioxidant activity but also effectively inhibited the activities of pancreatic lipase and α‐glucosidase. Thus, camelina and sophia seed meals may serve as nutritional ingredients with bioactive phenolics that show in vitro antioxidant and biological effects. However, further research is required to confirm these health effects in vivo.