Availability of Bioactive Compounds in Solar Pr-Dried Okra Fruit Treated by DIC: Molecular Docking Evidence and Anti-Inflammatory and Milk Stabilizing Potential

Samia O, Adibasa BD, Adahab B, Colette B, Douaa BZ, Said MM, Kader C, Hong W and Karim A

Published on: 2026-04-01

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of a two-step drying strategy combining mild indirect solar pre-drying and Instant Controlled Pressure Drop (DIC) technology on the availability of bioactive compounds in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). Total Polyphenol Content (TPC), Total Carotenoid Content (TCC), antioxidant activity (DPPH), and anti-inflammatory potential were optimized using a response surface methodology approach. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory potential was assessed by docking okra mucilage to enzymes, involved in inflammation, such as cyclooxygenase isoforms COX-1 and COX-2.

The optimal DIC conditions were identified as a treatment time of 33.5 s, saturated steam pressure of 1.6 bar, and initial moisture content of 0.14 kg water/kg dry basis, yielding an overall desirability of 0.81. Under these conditions, the predicted responses were: pH = 6.3, TPC = 2.346 mg GAE/g db, TCC = 21.36 mg β-carotene/g db, DPPH inhibition = 86.14%, and anti-inflammatory activity = 77.11%. Additionally, docking simulations demonstrated a significant interaction with κ-casein and chymosin, suggesting a modulatory effect on milk coagulation. The milk–okra mucilage system remained physicochemically stable during storage at 4°C for 21 days.

These findings highlight the synergistic role of solar pre-drying and DIC technology in enhancing bioactive compound availability and demonstrate the multifunctional potential of okra mucilage as both a natural anti-inflammatory agent and a techno-functional ingredient in dairy systems.