TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A team from National Chung Hsing University in Taichung has discovered that compounds in citrus processing waste may support nerve cell health and have potential biomedical applications, CNA reported.
Wang Sheng-yang (王升陽), director of the Academy of Circular Economy at the university, said that about 50% of citrus fruit waste occurs during processing, creating environmental burdens and increasing disposal costs.
The team used oil extraction and bioactivity tests to find that γ-terpinene, a compound in orange peels and pomace, may improve mitochondrial metabolism and help repair damaged nerve cells. The findings have been published in the Journal of Functional Foods.
Hsu Mo-jung (徐驀蓉), a member of the team, said that mitochondria produce adenosine triphosphate, which supplies energy for cells. When mitochondria are damaged, cellular energy levels can drop, which may lead to nerve degeneration over time.
Hsu explained that the team used steam distillation to extract essential oil from citrus peels, which was then collected through cooling. The oil contains compounds that may be used in biomedical products.
The team noted the compound can help restore mitochondrial function and reduce cell damage caused by oxidation. It also supports dopamine production, helping protect nerve cells and maintain metabolism.
Taiwan’s citrus processing sector produces about 250,000 tonnes of waste annually. Wang added the compound extraction method could improve waste reuse and may have potential in addressing neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
