LC-ESI/HRMS analysis of glucosinolates, oxylipins and phenols in Italian rocket salad (Diplotaxis erucoides subsp. erucoides (L.) DC.) and evaluation of its healthy potential

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the chemical profile and biological activity of Diplotaxis erucoides subsp. erucoides (L.) DC. (Brassicaceae) collected in Sicily (Italy).

Results: Liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization and high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-ESI/HRMS) analysis of the ethanol extract revealed the presence of 42 compounds - glucosinolates, hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonoids, and oxylipins. The extract was tested for its antioxidant activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid (ABTS), ferric reducing ability power (FRAP), and β-carotene bleaching tests. Promising protection from lipid peroxidation was observed after 30 min of incubation in a β-carotene bleaching test (IC₅₀ of 3.32 μg mL^-1 ). The inhibition of carbohydrates-hydrolyzing enzymes resulted in IC₅₀ values of 85.18 and 92.36 μg mL^-1 for α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. Significant inhibition against lipase enzyme was observed (IC₅₀ of 61.27 μg mL^-1 ).

Conclusion: Diplotaxis erucoides can be considered a potential source of antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic bioactives. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Keywords: Diplotaxis erucoides; LC-ESI/HRMS analysis; antioxidant activity; hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effect.