Abstract
•eCO2 treatment supports the hypocholesterolaemic potential of fenugreek seeds.•eCO2-treated seeds are more potent in inhibiting cholesterol micellar solubility.•Inhibitory action of fenugreek seeds against pancreatic lipase is promoted by eCO2.•eCO2 induces the accumulation of phenolics, flavonoids, saponins and alkaloids.
A high level of serum cholesterol is a major cause of atherosclerosis. Fenugreek is a well-known hypocholesterolaemic agent with amazing phytochemical composition. Due to its impact on plant metabolism, CO2 enrichment was tested as a strategy to support functional values in fenugreek seeds. Phytochemical composition and biological activities of three fenugreek cultivars (G2, G6 and G30) grown under ambient (aCO2, 400 μmol mol−1) and elevated CO2 (eCO2, 620 μmol mol−1) were assessed. Applying eCO2 improved physical parameters of fenugreek seeds, and enhanced their biological activities. A significant increase in hypocholesterolaemic potential, as indicated by inhibition of cholesterol micellar solubility and pancreatic lipase activity, was recorded. In addition, antioxidant, anti-lipid peroxidation and antibacterial activities were improved. These enhanced biological activities were accompanied by improved seed chemical composition at the primary and secondary metabolic levels. Therefore, eCO2 treatment represents an efficient strategy to increase the hypocholesterolaemic, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of fenugreek seeds.