Citrus bergamia powder: antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties

Bergamot whole-fruit powder was analyzed for total polyphenols, flavonoids, flavonols and ascorbic acid content and tested for in vitro and ex vivo antioxidant activity. The flavonoids profile was further characterized via HPLC-DAD-MS/MS and the most abundant flavonoids were quantified. The antimicrobial activity against potentially pathogenic bacteria and the effect on beneficial gut bacteria were determined. Lastly, we evaluated the effects of bergamot extract on endothelial alterations in LPS-stimulated human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1). Our data demonstrated that bergamot powder possesses in vitro and ex vivo antioxidant activity, shows a selective inhibition against pathogenic strains and growth stimulation effects on some beneficial gut bacteria. Moreover, it protects HMEC-1 from LPS-induced activation and dysfunction and reduces the resulting endoplasmic reticulum stress. The relationship between isolated flavonoids and the protective effects are discussed. In conclusion, bergamot whole-fruit powder possesses beneficial health effects that makes it a potentially useful material for the nutraceutical industry.