# Evaluating the Effect of Gamma Radiation on the Total Phenolic Content, Flavonoids, and Antioxidant Activity of DriedPleurotus ostreatus ((Jacq. ex. Fr) Kummer) Stored in Packaging Materials

Authors: Nii Korley Kortei; George Tawia Odamtten; Mary Obodai; Victoria Appiah; Felicia Akuamoa; Afua Kobi Adu-Bobi; Sylvester Nana Yao Annan; Jonathan Nii Okai Armah; Stanley Akwesi Acquah
Journal: Advances in Pharmaceutics
 (2014)

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## Abstract

DriedPleurotus ostreatus mushrooms stored in polythene and polypropylene packs were exposed to gamma radiation from a cobalt-60 source at doses of 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 kGy at a dose rate of 1.7 kGy/hr and stored for a period of 1 month. Total phenolic contents, flavonoids, and free radical scavenging activity DPPH (2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) were determined using aqueous, ethanol, and methanol extracts by Folin-Ciocaultaeu method as a source of potential natural antioxidants. Total phenol content ranged 0.56 ± 0.01–10.96 ± 1.7 mg/GAE, flavonoids ranged 1.64 ± 0.05–8.92 ± 0.6 mg/QE, DPPH radical scavenging activity also ranged 7.02 ± 0.10–13.03 ± 0.04%, and IC50 values also ranged 0.08–0.16 mg/mL. Statistical differences (P < 0.05) were recorded for the extracts and the treatment doses of mushrooms stored in polythene and polypropylene packs. A significant linear correlation was confirmed between values for the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of mushroom extracts. The high contents of phenolic compounds indicated that these compounds contribute to high antioxidant activity. Pleurotus ostreatus can be regarded as a promising candidate for natural mushroom sources of antioxidants with high value. The use of low dose gamma radiation by the local food industry could improve the hygienic quality, extend shelf-life, and preserve nutrients and antinutrients.


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## Body

## 1. Introduction

Phenolic compounds are secondary metabolites that are derivatives of the pentose phosphate, shikimate, and phenylpropanoid pathways in living organisms [1–3]. They act in defense against pathogens, animal mycophage, or fungivore aggression and as response to various abiotic stress conditions, such as rainfall and ultraviolet radiation [4]. Polyphenols have protective activity which has been previously attributed to free radical scavenging, metal chelating properties, capability of inhibiting or reducing different enzymes, such as telomerase [5], cyclooxygenase [6, 7], or lipoxygenase [8, 9], and then most importantly as antioxidant compounds with the ability to trap free radicals and thus inhibit the oxidative mechanisms. However, in more recent years, they play roles such as interacting with signal transduction pathways and cell receptors [10–12].Naturally occurring antioxidants can be found in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, teas, spices, and herbs. Mushrooms have also been reported as living organisms with antioxidant activity which is correlated with their phenolic and polysaccharide compounds [13–15]. Their global economic value is now incredible, and the reason for the rise in consumption is a combination of their value as food [16, 17] and their medicinal or nutraceutical properties [18–21].Harmful effects of disturbed antioxidant-prooxidant balance can be largely prevented by intake of antioxidant substances [22, 23]. Antioxidants have already been found in mushroom materials and supplements [24, 25]. Due to their natural origin, the antioxidants obtained from living organisms are of greater benefit in comparison to synthetic ones [26, 27]. The use of natural antioxidants from mushrooms does not induce side effects, while synthetic antioxidants were found to have genotoxic effect [28, 29].Free radicals, reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide anions, hydroxyl radicals, and hydrogen peroxide are an entire class of highly reactive species derived from the normal metabolism of oxygen or from exogenous factors and agents such as pollutants and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. According to [30, 31], oxidative damage to crucial cellular molecules, induced by ROS, has been implicated as a possible factor in the etiology of several human diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer disease, and ageing [32] reported that irradiated flavonoid solutions produce chemical reactions between the solute and reactive species, which are the result of the radiolyzed solvent. These reactions according to [32] take place in radiolyzed alcohol solutions, a medium that is very rich in many different highly reactive species and that hosts specific reactions. The reactivity of the solute (flavonoid) with the alkoxy radicals C
H
3
O
* and C
H
3
C
H
2
O
* formed in methanol and ethanol, respectively, and their carbon-centered isomers: the 1-hydroxy-methyl C
*
H
2
OH and the 1-hydroxy-ethyl CH
3
C
*
HOH radicals operate to quickly repair the chemical modifications to biomolecules.Published studies by several researchers [33, 34] show how polyphenol compounds in our diets help to improve endothelial function, which is a critical factor in preventing atherosclerosis. They have also been shown to inhibit the abnormal blood platelet aggregation that cause most sudden heart attacks and strokes, while fighting inflammation and supporting healthy blood lipids. They have the potential to reduce allergic conditions [35] by blocking the release of histamine (an irritating substance causing inflammation and itching) from the mast cells that mediate allergic reactions. Letenneur [36] reported that polyphenols from different natural sources may work synergistically when consumed together, with benefits from the combination resulting in more than the sum of the parts.Antimicrobial activity of polyphenols occurring in vegetable foods, medicinal plants, and mushrooms has been extensively investigated against a wide range of microorganisms. Among polyphenols, flavan-3-ols, flavonols, and tannins received most attention due to their wide spectrum and higher antimicrobial activity in comparison with other polyphenols and to the fact that most of them are able to suppress a number of microbial virulence factors (such as inhibition of biofilm formation, reduction of host ligands adhesion, and neutralization of bacterial toxins) and show synergism with antibiotics [4]. The antimicrobial properties of certain classes of polyphenols have been proposed either to develop new food preservatives [37], due to the increasing consumer pressure on the food industry to avoid synthetic preservatives, or to develop innovative therapies for the treatment of various microbial infections [38, 39], considering the increase in microbial resistance against conventional antibiotic therapy.This study is to investigate the effect of gamma radiation on total phenolic content, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity in various extracts of the speciesPleurotus ostreatusin different packaging materials using spectrophotometric methods.


## 2. Materials and Methods

### 2.1. Chemicals

Analytical ethanol, methanol, and sodium hydrogen carbonate NAHCO3 were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich, USA. Standards of phenolic acids (gallic acid [
3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid]) and of flavonoids, potassium acetate, quercetin [
3,3′,4′,5,7-pentahydroxyflavone], and 2,2-dyphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) were obtained from Sigma Chemicals Co., St Louis, MO, USA. The Folin-Ciocalteu’s phenol reagent and Aluminium chloride (AlCl3) were from Fluka Chemie AG, Buchs, Switzerland.


### 2.2. Mushroom Material

Pleurotus ostreatus originally from Mauritius was cultivated onTriplochiton scleroxylon sawdust composted for 28 days, supplemented with 1% CaCO3 and 10% wheat bran [40], at the Mushroom Unit of CSIR-Food Research Institute, Accra, Ghana. Cultivation and harvesting were from the period between September and December, 2012. Mushroom fruit bodies were solar-dried at temperature range of 20–40°C to a moisture content of about 12%. Dried mushroom parts were cut up to average size of 2 cm × 3 cm and stored in tight-sealed polythene (P) and polypropylene (Bx) containers at room temperature until needed.


### 2.3. Irradiation of Mushroom Materials

Forty (40) grams of dried mushrooms were packed into various containers and irradiated at doses of 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 kGy at a dose rate of 1.7 kGy per hour from a cobalt60 source (SLL 515, Hungary) in air. Absorbed doses were confirmed using the ethanol-chlorobenzene (ECB) dosimetry system at the Radiation Technology Centre of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Accra, Ghana.


### 2.4. Preparation of Mushroom Extracts

Mushroom extracts were prepared according to a standard protocol [41]. Prepared mushroom material (10 g) was transferred to dark-colored flasks and mixed with 200 mL of solvents with different polarities (deionized water, methanol, ethanol), respectively, and stored at room temperature. After 24 h, infusions were filtered through Whatman number 1 filter paper and residue was reextracted with equal volume of solvents. After 48 h, the process was repeated. Combined supernatants were evaporated to dryness under vacuum at 30°C using a rotary evaporator. The obtained extracts were kept in sterile sample tubes and stored in a refrigerator at 4°C.


### 2.5. Determination of Total Phenolic Contents in the Mushroom Extracts

The concentration of phenolics in mushroom extracts was determined using spectrophotometric method [42]. Methanolic solution of the extract in the concentration of 1 mg/mL was used in the analysis. The reaction mixture was prepared by mixing 50 mL of methanolic solution of extracts, 2.5 mL of 10% Folin-Ciocalteu’s reagent (v/v) dissolved in water, and 2.5 mL 7.5% NaHCO3. Blank was concomitantly prepared, containing 50 mL methanol, 2.5 mL 10% Folin-Ciocalteu’s reagent dissolved in water, and 2.5 mL of 7.5% of NaHCO3. The samples were thereafter incubated in a thermostat at 45°C for 45 min. The absorbance was determined using spectrophotometer at λmax = 760 nm. The samples were prepared in triplicate for each analysis and the mean value of absorbance was obtained. The same procedure was repeated for the standard solution of gallic acid and the calibration line was constructed. Based on the measured absorbance, the concentration of phenolics was read (mg mL−1) from the calibration line; then the content of phenolics in extracts was expressed in terms of gallic acid equivalent (mg of GA/g of extract).


### 2.6. Determination of Flavonoid Concentrations in the Mushroom Extracts

The content of flavonoids in the examined mushroom extracts was determined using a modified spectrophotometric method [43]. The sample contained 500 mL of ethanol solution of the extract in the concentration of 1 mg/mL and 100 mL of 10% AlCl3 solution dissolved in 1500 mL ethanol. The samples were incubated for an hour at room temperature. The absorbance was determined using spectrophotometer at λmax = 415 nm. The samples were prepared in triplicate for each analysis and the mean value of absorbance was obtained. The same procedure was repeated for the standard solution of 500 mL of quercetin and 100 mL of potassium acetate (10%) and the calibration line was constructed. Based on the measured absorbance, the concentration of flavonoids was read (mg/mL) on the calibration line; then, the content of flavonoids in extracts was expressed in terms of quercetin equivalent (mg of QE/g of extract).


### 2.7. Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity and IC50

The ability of the mushroom extract to scavenge DPPH free radicals was assessed by the standard method [44], adopted with suitable modifications [45]. The stock solutions of extracts were prepared in methanol to achieve the concentration of 1 mg mL−1. Dilutions were made to obtain concentrations of 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2 mg mL−1. Diluted solutions of sample (200 mL each) were mixed with 3800 mL of methanolic solution of DPPH. After 30 min incubation in darkness at room temperature (23°C), the absorbance was recorded at 517 nm. Control sample contained all the reagents except the extract. Percentage inhibition was calculated using (1); the data were presented as mean values ± standard deviation (n
=
2). Consider
(1)
%
inhibition
=
A
of
control
-
A
of
sample
A
of
control
×
100
.IC50 value is the concentration of sample required to scavenge 50% of DPPH free radical and was calculated by plotting a graph of concentration and % inhibition. A linear regression was estimated to plot x
-
y and fit data with a straight line. From linear equation y
=
m
x
+
c, where y
=
50 and x is calculated.


### 2.8. Statistical Analysis

All experimental measurements were carried out in duplicate and are expressed as average of two analyses ± standard deviation. The magnitude of correlation between variables was done using a SPSS (Chicago, IL) statistical software package (SPSS for Windows, version XIV, 2004). Significances of differences were conducted with a Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Linear regression to correlate between total phenolics and total flavonoid with antioxidant activity was carried out using Excel 2003.


## 2.1. Chemicals

Analytical ethanol, methanol, and sodium hydrogen carbonate NAHCO3 were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich, USA. Standards of phenolic acids (gallic acid [
3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid]) and of flavonoids, potassium acetate, quercetin [
3,3′,4′,5,7-pentahydroxyflavone], and 2,2-dyphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) were obtained from Sigma Chemicals Co., St Louis, MO, USA. The Folin-Ciocalteu’s phenol reagent and Aluminium chloride (AlCl3) were from Fluka Chemie AG, Buchs, Switzerland.


## 2.2. Mushroom Material

Pleurotus ostreatus originally from Mauritius was cultivated onTriplochiton scleroxylon sawdust composted for 28 days, supplemented with 1% CaCO3 and 10% wheat bran [40], at the Mushroom Unit of CSIR-Food Research Institute, Accra, Ghana. Cultivation and harvesting were from the period between September and December, 2012. Mushroom fruit bodies were solar-dried at temperature range of 20–40°C to a moisture content of about 12%. Dried mushroom parts were cut up to average size of 2 cm × 3 cm and stored in tight-sealed polythene (P) and polypropylene (Bx) containers at room temperature until needed.


## 2.3. Irradiation of Mushroom Materials

Forty (40) grams of dried mushrooms were packed into various containers and irradiated at doses of 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 kGy at a dose rate of 1.7 kGy per hour from a cobalt60 source (SLL 515, Hungary) in air. Absorbed doses were confirmed using the ethanol-chlorobenzene (ECB) dosimetry system at the Radiation Technology Centre of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Accra, Ghana.


## 2.4. Preparation of Mushroom Extracts

Mushroom extracts were prepared according to a standard protocol [41]. Prepared mushroom material (10 g) was transferred to dark-colored flasks and mixed with 200 mL of solvents with different polarities (deionized water, methanol, ethanol), respectively, and stored at room temperature. After 24 h, infusions were filtered through Whatman number 1 filter paper and residue was reextracted with equal volume of solvents. After 48 h, the process was repeated. Combined supernatants were evaporated to dryness under vacuum at 30°C using a rotary evaporator. The obtained extracts were kept in sterile sample tubes and stored in a refrigerator at 4°C.


## 2.5. Determination of Total Phenolic Contents in the Mushroom Extracts

The concentration of phenolics in mushroom extracts was determined using spectrophotometric method [42]. Methanolic solution of the extract in the concentration of 1 mg/mL was used in the analysis. The reaction mixture was prepared by mixing 50 mL of methanolic solution of extracts, 2.5 mL of 10% Folin-Ciocalteu’s reagent (v/v) dissolved in water, and 2.5 mL 7.5% NaHCO3. Blank was concomitantly prepared, containing 50 mL methanol, 2.5 mL 10% Folin-Ciocalteu’s reagent dissolved in water, and 2.5 mL of 7.5% of NaHCO3. The samples were thereafter incubated in a thermostat at 45°C for 45 min. The absorbance was determined using spectrophotometer at λmax = 760 nm. The samples were prepared in triplicate for each analysis and the mean value of absorbance was obtained. The same procedure was repeated for the standard solution of gallic acid and the calibration line was constructed. Based on the measured absorbance, the concentration of phenolics was read (mg mL−1) from the calibration line; then the content of phenolics in extracts was expressed in terms of gallic acid equivalent (mg of GA/g of extract).


## 2.6. Determination of Flavonoid Concentrations in the Mushroom Extracts

The content of flavonoids in the examined mushroom extracts was determined using a modified spectrophotometric method [43]. The sample contained 500 mL of ethanol solution of the extract in the concentration of 1 mg/mL and 100 mL of 10% AlCl3 solution dissolved in 1500 mL ethanol. The samples were incubated for an hour at room temperature. The absorbance was determined using spectrophotometer at λmax = 415 nm. The samples were prepared in triplicate for each analysis and the mean value of absorbance was obtained. The same procedure was repeated for the standard solution of 500 mL of quercetin and 100 mL of potassium acetate (10%) and the calibration line was constructed. Based on the measured absorbance, the concentration of flavonoids was read (mg/mL) on the calibration line; then, the content of flavonoids in extracts was expressed in terms of quercetin equivalent (mg of QE/g of extract).


## 2.7. Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity and IC50

The ability of the mushroom extract to scavenge DPPH free radicals was assessed by the standard method [44], adopted with suitable modifications [45]. The stock solutions of extracts were prepared in methanol to achieve the concentration of 1 mg mL−1. Dilutions were made to obtain concentrations of 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2 mg mL−1. Diluted solutions of sample (200 mL each) were mixed with 3800 mL of methanolic solution of DPPH. After 30 min incubation in darkness at room temperature (23°C), the absorbance was recorded at 517 nm. Control sample contained all the reagents except the extract. Percentage inhibition was calculated using (1); the data were presented as mean values ± standard deviation (n
=
2). Consider
(1)
%
inhibition
=
A
of
control
-
A
of
sample
A
of
control
×
100
.IC50 value is the concentration of sample required to scavenge 50% of DPPH free radical and was calculated by plotting a graph of concentration and % inhibition. A linear regression was estimated to plot x
-
y and fit data with a straight line. From linear equation y
=
m
x
+
c, where y
=
50 and x is calculated.


## 2.8. Statistical Analysis

All experimental measurements were carried out in duplicate and are expressed as average of two analyses ± standard deviation. The magnitude of correlation between variables was done using a SPSS (Chicago, IL) statistical software package (SPSS for Windows, version XIV, 2004). Significances of differences were conducted with a Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Linear regression to correlate between total phenolics and total flavonoid with antioxidant activity was carried out using Excel 2003.


## 3. Results and Discussions

### 3.1. The Total Phenolic Content

The major antioxidants found in mushrooms are phenolic compounds while other potential antioxidants such as ascorbic acid,β-carotene, lycopene, and γ-tocopherol have only been found in very small amounts [46–48]. Phenolics are important constituents with scavenging ability due to their hydroxyl groups and hence may contribute directly to the antioxidative action [49]. Irradiation dose of 0.5 kGy apparently influenced the production of phenolics and caused a significantly (P
<
0.05) higher contents with aqueous and ethanol extracts. The total phenolic content was expressed in terms of gallic acid equivalent in milligram (mg) per gram of dry material. The calibration curve (the standard curve: y
=
1.225
x
-
0.003, r
2
=
0.988) was used to determine total phenolic content as shown in Figure 1. The total phenolic content of the various extracts was compiled in Table 1. Generally high values of antioxidant activity were recorded for aqueous 1.96
±
0.05
–
10.96
±
1.7 mgGAE/g. Methanol and ethanol extracts ranged from 0.56
±
0.01
–
4.81
±
0.4 mgGAE/g and 1.32
±
0.02
–
2.36
±
0.2 mgGAE/g, respectively. Irradiation dose of 0.5 kGy produced greatest amounts of phenols for all the extracts while 2 kGy recorded least for the extracts. In terms of packaging material suitability, there was no significant (P
>
0.05) difference between polythene and polypropylene. The values were within the range of total phenolic content of antioxidant activity of 15.38
±
0.56
–
16.80
±
0.15 gGE/100 g dry weight of gamma irradiated pomegranate (Punica granatum) peels recorded by [50]. The phenol contents ofP. ostreatus are also within the same range as that of some commonly consumed green leafy vegetables in W. Africa [51, 52].Table 1
Total phenolic content (mgGAE/g) of dried and irradiated mushrooms of polythene (P) and polypropylene (Bx) packs from 3 extracts.
Treatment
Extract
Aqueous (mgGAE/g)
Ethanol (mgGAE/g)
Methanol (mgGAE/g)
P 0
3.84 ± 0.4a
2.0 ± 0.1b
2.4 ± 0.1b
P 0.5
5.0 ± 0.3ab
2.36 ± 0.2bc
2.36 ± 0.2b
P 1
4.63 ± 0.3a
1.54 ± 0. 18b
4.81 ± 0.4c
P 1.5
2.78 ±  0.1a
1.32 ± 0.02a
2.83 ± 0.1b
P 2
1.96 ± 0.05a
1.32 ± 0.02a
1.96 ± 0.05b
Bx 0
2.54 ± 0.1a
1.32 ± 0.02a
1.93 ± 0.05b
Bx 0.5
4.46 ± 0.3a
1.96 ± 0.05bc
2.31 ± 0.2b
Bx 1
10.96 ± 1.7b
1.53 ± 0.04b
1.35 ± 0.03a
Bx 1.5
4.46 ± 0.8a
1.89 ± 0.07bc
0.56 ± 0.01a
Bx 2
2.5 ± 0.2a
1.76 ± 0.05b
1.4 ± 0.03a
Means with same letters in a column are not significantly different (P
>
0.05).Figure 1
Calibration curve for the determination of total phenolics.


### 3.2. Flavonoid Content

Flavonoids are a class of secondary plant metabolites with significant antioxidant and chelating properties. Antioxidant activity of flavonoids depends on the structure and substitution pattern of hydroxyl groups [53]. The concentration of flavonoids in plant extracts depends on the polarity of solvents used in the extract preparation [54]. The flavonoid content was expressed in terms of quercetin equivalent in milligrams per gram of dry material. The calibration curve (the standard curve equation: y
=
0.005
x
+
0.00
,
r
2
=
0.986) was used to determine flavonoid content as shown in Figure 2. The total flavonoid content of the various extracts was compiled in Table 2. Results of flavonoid content are presented in Table 2. There were significant differences (
P
≤
0.05
) between flavonoid contents of doses and solvent extracts. The extraction concentrations followed a descending order of aqueous> methanol> ethanol. Extraction with aqueous ranged 3.09
±
0.2
–
8.42
±
0.6 mgQE/g, methanol ranged 2.0
±
0.1
–
4.90
±
0.4 mgQE/g, and ethanol 1.64
±
0.05
–
7.88
±
0.4 mgQE/g. There were significant differences (P
<
0.05) recorded for aqueous and ethanol extracts. However, no significant differences (P
>
0.05) were recorded for methanol extracts. Irradiation dose of 0.5 kGy recorded greatest amounts of flavonoids in general for all the extracts while 0, 0.5, and 2 kGy recorded the least flavonoids. In terms of packaging material suitability, there was no significant (P
>
0.05) difference between polythene and polypropylene. The flavonoid concentrations ofP. ostreatus were found to be lower than works of some authors [55–57]. Nonetheless, the values recorded were higher than and were contrary to works of [57, 58] who found no flavonoids inP. ostreatus as they investigated the comparative phytochemical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties and also, contents of vitamins, mineral elements, and some phenolic compounds in cultivated mushrooms, respectively.Table 2
Flavonoid content (mgQE/g) of dried and irradiated mushrooms of polythene (P) and polypropylene (Bx) packs from 3 extracts.
Treatments
Extracts
Aqueous (mgQE/g)
Ethanol (mgQE/g)
Methanol (mgQE/g)
P 0
7.67 ± 0.8a
4.25 ± 0.2ab
3.93 ± 0.2a
P 0.5
8.92 ± 0.6a
7.27 ± 0.4b
3.81 ± 0.2a
P 1
8.07 ± 0.7a
5.58 ± 0.2b
4.61 ± 0.4a
P 1.5
3.7 ±  0.2ab
1.64 ± 0.05a
3.51 ± 0.2a
P 2
6.73 ± 0.5a
7.88 ± 0.4c
2.88 ± 0.1a
Bx 0
3.09 ± 0.2ab
4.73 ± 0.2ab
4.18 ± 0.2a
Bx 0.5
8.75 ± 0.8a
7.86 ± 0.4b
5.37 ± 0.5a
Bx 1
7.92 ± 0.6a
4.42 ± 0.2ab
2.50 ± 0.2a
Bx 1.5
7.92 ± 0.6a
6.29 ± 0.4b
2.0 ± 0.1a
Bx 2
3.46 ± 0.3ab
5.88 ± 0.3b
4.9 ± 0.4a
Means with same letters in a column are not significantly different (P
>
0.05).Figure 2
Calibration curve for the determination of flavonoids.


### 3.3. DPPH Free Radical Scavenging Activity

Free radical scavenging is one of the mechanisms in inhibiting lipid oxidation commonly used to estimate antioxidant activity [59, 60]. The extraction pattern was consistent with total phenolic and flavonoid. The DPPH free radical scavenging activity was expressed in terms of gallic acid equivalent in milligrams(mg) per gram(g) of dry material. The calibration curve (the standard curve: y
=
-
3.309
x + 0.7374, r
2
=
0.8507) as shown in Figure 3. Extraction with aqueous ranged 9.62
±
0.10
–
12.5
±
0.02 mgGAE/g, methanol ranged 6.73
±
0.04
–
9.42
±
0.13 mgGAE/g, and ethanol 1.89
±
0.05
–
3.65
±
0.22 mgGAE/g (Table 3). There were significant differences (P
<
0.05) recorded between extracts of aqueous and ethanol. Methanol extracts, however, recorded no significant differences. Packaging materials were not significantly different.Table 3
DPPH free radical scavenging activity of dried and irradiated mushrooms of polythene (P) and polypropylene (Bx) packs from 3 extracts.
Treatments
Extracts
Aqueous (mgGAE/g)
Ethanol (mgGAE/g)
Methanol (mgGAE/g)
P 0
0.07 ± 0.01ab
0.10 ± 0.03bc
0.11 ± 0.03a
P 0.5
0.10 ± 0.03b
0.11 ± 0.03c
0.13 ± 0.04a
P 1
0.12 ± 0.05b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.13 ± 0.04a
P 1.5
0.09 ± 0.02b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.10 ± 0.03a
P 2
0.09 ± 0.02b
0.08 ± 0.02b
0.11 ± 0.03a
Bx 0
0.10 ± 0.03b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.10 ± 0.03a
Bx 0.5
0.08 ± 0.02b
0.11 ± 0.03c
0.11 ± 0.03a
Bx 1
0.11 ± 0.03b
0.07 ± 0.01a
0.09 ± 0.02a
Bx 1.5
0.11 ± 0.03b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.09 ± 0.02a
Bx 2
0.09 ± 0.02b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.10 ± 0.03a
Means with same letters in a column are not significantly different (P
>
0.05).Figure 3
Calibration curve for the determination of DPPH free radical scavenging activity.


### 3.4. Percentage (%) Inhibition of DPPH and IC50

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) is a measure of the effectiveness of a compound in inhibiting a biological or biochemical function. The antioxidant activity with IC50 < 10 micro grams/mL value corresponds to good antioxidant activity and is included in the category of powerful antioxidants class [61–63]. The process of free radicals reduction is achieved through the mechanism of hydrogen donation from antioxidants [64]. Free radicals used are synthetic DPPH that reacts with an antioxidant compound through the donation of electrons from an antioxidant compound to get a pair of electrons. DPPH radical compound deep purple would fade to yellow if it is reduced by antioxidants into nonradical DPPH [62], when the free electron of DPPH radical has been paired with electrons from traps compounds (antioxidants) that would reduce DPPH radical (DPPH-H) and form stable compounds that are DPP Hydrazine [63].Aqueous extraction ranged8.24
±
0.03
–
11.6
±
0.05% mgGAE/g, methanol ranged 8.79
±
0.06
–
13.03
±
0.04% mgGAE/g, and ethanol ranged 8.31
±
0.04
–
10.81
±
0.25% mgGAE/g (Table 4). In terms of packaging material suitability, there was no significant (P
>
0.05) difference between polythene and polypropylene. Figure 2 shows the amount of each extract needed for 50% inhibition (IC50). IC50 mg mL−1 of the extracts was in the order aqueous < methanol < ethanol and corresponded to 0.064, 1.03, and 1.03, respectively. IC50 of the standard compound quercetin was 0.01 mg mL−1. The highest radical scavenging activity was shown by aqueous extract with IC50 = 0.064 mg mL−1 which is lower than that of quercetin (P
<
0.05). All of the extracts showed significant difference (
P
≤
0.05
) from the standard compound (Figure 4). The high contents of phenolic compounds and significant linear correlation between the values of the concentration of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity indicated that these compounds in mushrooms contribute to the strong antioxidant activity.Table 4
Percentage inhibition (%) of DPPH in dried and irradiated mushrooms in storage packages.
Treatments
Extracts
Aqueous (%) (mgGAE/g)
Ethanol (%) (mgGAE/g)
Methanol (%) (mgGAE/g)
P 0
7.02 ± 0.10a
10.06 ± 0.13bc
10.9 ± 0.26b
P 0.5
9.65 ± 0.13bc
10.47 ± 0.24c
13.03 ± 0.04b
P 1
11.6 ± 0.05d
9.36 ± 0.12bc
12.82 ± 0.03b
P 1.5
9.46 ± 0.13bc
9.36 ± 0.12bc
10.30 ± 0.27b
P 2
9.26 ± 0.16bc
8.31 ± 0.04a
10.60 ± 0.3b
Bx 0
9.65 ± 0.13bc
8.95 ± 0.05bc
10.40 ± 0.3b
Bx 0.5
8.24 ± 0.03a
10.81 ± 0.25d
11.21 ± 0.04b
Bx 1
11.12 ± 0.05c
7.44 ± 0.16a
9.09 ± 0.12a
Bx 1.5
11.27 ± 0.02c
8.84 ± 0.05bc
8.79 ± 0.06a
Bx 2
9.37 ± 0.12bc
9.06 ± 0.11bc
10.30 ± 0.3b
Means with same letters in a column are not significantly different (P
>
0.05).Figure 4
IC50 (mg mL−1) values of mushroom extracts for free radical scavenging activity by DPPH radical. (
1
) Methanol, (2) ethanol, (3) quercetin (standard), and (4) aqueous.


## 3.1. The Total Phenolic Content

The major antioxidants found in mushrooms are phenolic compounds while other potential antioxidants such as ascorbic acid,β-carotene, lycopene, and γ-tocopherol have only been found in very small amounts [46–48]. Phenolics are important constituents with scavenging ability due to their hydroxyl groups and hence may contribute directly to the antioxidative action [49]. Irradiation dose of 0.5 kGy apparently influenced the production of phenolics and caused a significantly (P
<
0.05) higher contents with aqueous and ethanol extracts. The total phenolic content was expressed in terms of gallic acid equivalent in milligram (mg) per gram of dry material. The calibration curve (the standard curve: y
=
1.225
x
-
0.003, r
2
=
0.988) was used to determine total phenolic content as shown in Figure 1. The total phenolic content of the various extracts was compiled in Table 1. Generally high values of antioxidant activity were recorded for aqueous 1.96
±
0.05
–
10.96
±
1.7 mgGAE/g. Methanol and ethanol extracts ranged from 0.56
±
0.01
–
4.81
±
0.4 mgGAE/g and 1.32
±
0.02
–
2.36
±
0.2 mgGAE/g, respectively. Irradiation dose of 0.5 kGy produced greatest amounts of phenols for all the extracts while 2 kGy recorded least for the extracts. In terms of packaging material suitability, there was no significant (P
>
0.05) difference between polythene and polypropylene. The values were within the range of total phenolic content of antioxidant activity of 15.38
±
0.56
–
16.80
±
0.15 gGE/100 g dry weight of gamma irradiated pomegranate (Punica granatum) peels recorded by [50]. The phenol contents ofP. ostreatus are also within the same range as that of some commonly consumed green leafy vegetables in W. Africa [51, 52].Table 1
Total phenolic content (mgGAE/g) of dried and irradiated mushrooms of polythene (P) and polypropylene (Bx) packs from 3 extracts.
Treatment
Extract
Aqueous (mgGAE/g)
Ethanol (mgGAE/g)
Methanol (mgGAE/g)
P 0
3.84 ± 0.4a
2.0 ± 0.1b
2.4 ± 0.1b
P 0.5
5.0 ± 0.3ab
2.36 ± 0.2bc
2.36 ± 0.2b
P 1
4.63 ± 0.3a
1.54 ± 0. 18b
4.81 ± 0.4c
P 1.5
2.78 ±  0.1a
1.32 ± 0.02a
2.83 ± 0.1b
P 2
1.96 ± 0.05a
1.32 ± 0.02a
1.96 ± 0.05b
Bx 0
2.54 ± 0.1a
1.32 ± 0.02a
1.93 ± 0.05b
Bx 0.5
4.46 ± 0.3a
1.96 ± 0.05bc
2.31 ± 0.2b
Bx 1
10.96 ± 1.7b
1.53 ± 0.04b
1.35 ± 0.03a
Bx 1.5
4.46 ± 0.8a
1.89 ± 0.07bc
0.56 ± 0.01a
Bx 2
2.5 ± 0.2a
1.76 ± 0.05b
1.4 ± 0.03a
Means with same letters in a column are not significantly different (P
>
0.05).Figure 1
Calibration curve for the determination of total phenolics.


## 3.2. Flavonoid Content

Flavonoids are a class of secondary plant metabolites with significant antioxidant and chelating properties. Antioxidant activity of flavonoids depends on the structure and substitution pattern of hydroxyl groups [53]. The concentration of flavonoids in plant extracts depends on the polarity of solvents used in the extract preparation [54]. The flavonoid content was expressed in terms of quercetin equivalent in milligrams per gram of dry material. The calibration curve (the standard curve equation: y
=
0.005
x
+
0.00
,
r
2
=
0.986) was used to determine flavonoid content as shown in Figure 2. The total flavonoid content of the various extracts was compiled in Table 2. Results of flavonoid content are presented in Table 2. There were significant differences (
P
≤
0.05
) between flavonoid contents of doses and solvent extracts. The extraction concentrations followed a descending order of aqueous> methanol> ethanol. Extraction with aqueous ranged 3.09
±
0.2
–
8.42
±
0.6 mgQE/g, methanol ranged 2.0
±
0.1
–
4.90
±
0.4 mgQE/g, and ethanol 1.64
±
0.05
–
7.88
±
0.4 mgQE/g. There were significant differences (P
<
0.05) recorded for aqueous and ethanol extracts. However, no significant differences (P
>
0.05) were recorded for methanol extracts. Irradiation dose of 0.5 kGy recorded greatest amounts of flavonoids in general for all the extracts while 0, 0.5, and 2 kGy recorded the least flavonoids. In terms of packaging material suitability, there was no significant (P
>
0.05) difference between polythene and polypropylene. The flavonoid concentrations ofP. ostreatus were found to be lower than works of some authors [55–57]. Nonetheless, the values recorded were higher than and were contrary to works of [57, 58] who found no flavonoids inP. ostreatus as they investigated the comparative phytochemical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties and also, contents of vitamins, mineral elements, and some phenolic compounds in cultivated mushrooms, respectively.Table 2
Flavonoid content (mgQE/g) of dried and irradiated mushrooms of polythene (P) and polypropylene (Bx) packs from 3 extracts.
Treatments
Extracts
Aqueous (mgQE/g)
Ethanol (mgQE/g)
Methanol (mgQE/g)
P 0
7.67 ± 0.8a
4.25 ± 0.2ab
3.93 ± 0.2a
P 0.5
8.92 ± 0.6a
7.27 ± 0.4b
3.81 ± 0.2a
P 1
8.07 ± 0.7a
5.58 ± 0.2b
4.61 ± 0.4a
P 1.5
3.7 ±  0.2ab
1.64 ± 0.05a
3.51 ± 0.2a
P 2
6.73 ± 0.5a
7.88 ± 0.4c
2.88 ± 0.1a
Bx 0
3.09 ± 0.2ab
4.73 ± 0.2ab
4.18 ± 0.2a
Bx 0.5
8.75 ± 0.8a
7.86 ± 0.4b
5.37 ± 0.5a
Bx 1
7.92 ± 0.6a
4.42 ± 0.2ab
2.50 ± 0.2a
Bx 1.5
7.92 ± 0.6a
6.29 ± 0.4b
2.0 ± 0.1a
Bx 2
3.46 ± 0.3ab
5.88 ± 0.3b
4.9 ± 0.4a
Means with same letters in a column are not significantly different (P
>
0.05).Figure 2
Calibration curve for the determination of flavonoids.


## 3.3. DPPH Free Radical Scavenging Activity

Free radical scavenging is one of the mechanisms in inhibiting lipid oxidation commonly used to estimate antioxidant activity [59, 60]. The extraction pattern was consistent with total phenolic and flavonoid. The DPPH free radical scavenging activity was expressed in terms of gallic acid equivalent in milligrams(mg) per gram(g) of dry material. The calibration curve (the standard curve: y
=
-
3.309
x + 0.7374, r
2
=
0.8507) as shown in Figure 3. Extraction with aqueous ranged 9.62
±
0.10
–
12.5
±
0.02 mgGAE/g, methanol ranged 6.73
±
0.04
–
9.42
±
0.13 mgGAE/g, and ethanol 1.89
±
0.05
–
3.65
±
0.22 mgGAE/g (Table 3). There were significant differences (P
<
0.05) recorded between extracts of aqueous and ethanol. Methanol extracts, however, recorded no significant differences. Packaging materials were not significantly different.Table 3
DPPH free radical scavenging activity of dried and irradiated mushrooms of polythene (P) and polypropylene (Bx) packs from 3 extracts.
Treatments
Extracts
Aqueous (mgGAE/g)
Ethanol (mgGAE/g)
Methanol (mgGAE/g)
P 0
0.07 ± 0.01ab
0.10 ± 0.03bc
0.11 ± 0.03a
P 0.5
0.10 ± 0.03b
0.11 ± 0.03c
0.13 ± 0.04a
P 1
0.12 ± 0.05b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.13 ± 0.04a
P 1.5
0.09 ± 0.02b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.10 ± 0.03a
P 2
0.09 ± 0.02b
0.08 ± 0.02b
0.11 ± 0.03a
Bx 0
0.10 ± 0.03b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.10 ± 0.03a
Bx 0.5
0.08 ± 0.02b
0.11 ± 0.03c
0.11 ± 0.03a
Bx 1
0.11 ± 0.03b
0.07 ± 0.01a
0.09 ± 0.02a
Bx 1.5
0.11 ± 0.03b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.09 ± 0.02a
Bx 2
0.09 ± 0.02b
0.09 ± 0.02bc
0.10 ± 0.03a
Means with same letters in a column are not significantly different (P
>
0.05).Figure 3
Calibration curve for the determination of DPPH free radical scavenging activity.


## 3.4. Percentage (%) Inhibition of DPPH and IC50

The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) is a measure of the effectiveness of a compound in inhibiting a biological or biochemical function. The antioxidant activity with IC50 < 10 micro grams/mL value corresponds to good antioxidant activity and is included in the category of powerful antioxidants class [61–63]. The process of free radicals reduction is achieved through the mechanism of hydrogen donation from antioxidants [64]. Free radicals used are synthetic DPPH that reacts with an antioxidant compound through the donation of electrons from an antioxidant compound to get a pair of electrons. DPPH radical compound deep purple would fade to yellow if it is reduced by antioxidants into nonradical DPPH [62], when the free electron of DPPH radical has been paired with electrons from traps compounds (antioxidants) that would reduce DPPH radical (DPPH-H) and form stable compounds that are DPP Hydrazine [63].Aqueous extraction ranged8.24
±
0.03
–
11.6
±
0.05% mgGAE/g, methanol ranged 8.79
±
0.06
–
13.03
±
0.04% mgGAE/g, and ethanol ranged 8.31
±
0.04
–
10.81
±
0.25% mgGAE/g (Table 4). In terms of packaging material suitability, there was no significant (P
>
0.05) difference between polythene and polypropylene. Figure 2 shows the amount of each extract needed for 50% inhibition (IC50). IC50 mg mL−1 of the extracts was in the order aqueous < methanol < ethanol and corresponded to 0.064, 1.03, and 1.03, respectively. IC50 of the standard compound quercetin was 0.01 mg mL−1. The highest radical scavenging activity was shown by aqueous extract with IC50 = 0.064 mg mL−1 which is lower than that of quercetin (P
<
0.05). All of the extracts showed significant difference (
P
≤
0.05
) from the standard compound (Figure 4). The high contents of phenolic compounds and significant linear correlation between the values of the concentration of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity indicated that these compounds in mushrooms contribute to the strong antioxidant activity.Table 4
Percentage inhibition (%) of DPPH in dried and irradiated mushrooms in storage packages.
Treatments
Extracts
Aqueous (%) (mgGAE/g)
Ethanol (%) (mgGAE/g)
Methanol (%) (mgGAE/g)
P 0
7.02 ± 0.10a
10.06 ± 0.13bc
10.9 ± 0.26b
P 0.5
9.65 ± 0.13bc
10.47 ± 0.24c
13.03 ± 0.04b
P 1
11.6 ± 0.05d
9.36 ± 0.12bc
12.82 ± 0.03b
P 1.5
9.46 ± 0.13bc
9.36 ± 0.12bc
10.30 ± 0.27b
P 2
9.26 ± 0.16bc
8.31 ± 0.04a
10.60 ± 0.3b
Bx 0
9.65 ± 0.13bc
8.95 ± 0.05bc
10.40 ± 0.3b
Bx 0.5
8.24 ± 0.03a
10.81 ± 0.25d
11.21 ± 0.04b
Bx 1
11.12 ± 0.05c
7.44 ± 0.16a
9.09 ± 0.12a
Bx 1.5
11.27 ± 0.02c
8.84 ± 0.05bc
8.79 ± 0.06a
Bx 2
9.37 ± 0.12bc
9.06 ± 0.11bc
10.30 ± 0.3b
Means with same letters in a column are not significantly different (P
>
0.05).Figure 4
IC50 (mg mL−1) values of mushroom extracts for free radical scavenging activity by DPPH radical. (
1
) Methanol, (2) ethanol, (3) quercetin (standard), and (4) aqueous.


## 4. Conclusions

Although the interaction of gamma radiation and polythene and/or polypropylene packaging materials caused some significant differences(
P
≤
0.05
) in total phenolic content, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity which eventually cause oxidative damage and impair flavor in food, there was no apparent difference between the packaging materials (Tables 1, 2, and 3). However, the action of effective and radiostable natural antioxidants may prevent chemical oxidation of biomolecules in irradiated food. Gamma radiation had no adverse effect on the dried mushrooms. It enhanced shelf-life as it was able to prevent insect and pest infestation.



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*Source: 262807-2014-08-24.xml*