Beyond Starch-Maize's Lesser-Known Biochemical Marvels

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1.Introduction:
Maize, scientifically known as Zea mays, has long been celebrated as a vital global crop due to its rich carbohydrate content, primarily starch.However, beyond this staple constituent, maize harbors a trove of lesser-known biochemical marvels that have garnered increasing attention from researchers, nutritionists, and the food industry.This review explores the multifaceted world of maize's biochemical compounds, shedding light on their diverse roles and potential applications.Maize cultivation dates back over 10,000 years, originating in Mesoamerica, where it served as a dietary cornerstone for ancient civilizations like the Mayans and Aztecs (Smith and Berdan, 2003).Traditionally, maize has been celebrated for its starchy endosperm, a source of energy, and sustenance for billions.However, as our understanding of maize's chemistry deepens, a growing appreciation for its myriad other constituents has emerged.
In recent years, research has unveiled a cornucopia of bioactive compounds within maize, including phenolic compounds, carotenoids, tocopherols, and essential fatty acids (Haug and Lantzsch , 1983;Meléndez-Martínez et al., 2007).These compounds contribute not only to maize's vibrant colors but also to its potential health benefits, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (Hosseini et al., 2018).Furthermore, maize-derived bio-chemicals find applications in diverse fields, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and the biofuel industry (Shen et al., 2012;Hussein et al., 2014).This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of maize's lesser-known biochemical treasures, elucidating their nutritional significance, therapeutic potential, and industrial relevance.

2.The Diversity of Maize Varieties
Maize (Zea mays) is a remarkably diverse crop, with a wide range of varieties cultivated worldwide.This diversity arises from both natural selection and human cultivation practices.The following section explores the rich diversity of maize varieties and their significance in agriculture and research.

2.1.Natural Variation in Maize
Maize's genetic diversity is thought to have originated from its wild ancestor, teosinte (Zea mays ssp.parviglumis).Over millennia, natural selection and adaptation to various environmental conditions have led to the development of distinct maize landraces and ecotypes.For example, maize varieties adapted to highaltitude regions, such as the "Highland Maize" in the Andes, exhibit unique traits that allow them to thrive in challenging conditions (Doebley, 2004) .

2.2.Human-Driven Selection
Human cultivation practices have played a significant role in shaping maize diversity.Farmers have selectively bred maize for desirable traits such as yield, taste, and disease resistance.This artificial selection has resulted in numerous maize landraces tailored to specific regional needs.The "Flint Corn" (Zea mays indurata) and "Dent Corn" (Zea mays indentata) varieties, for instance, have been cultivated for centuries in North America and are known for their robustness and adaptability (Wilkes, 1967) .

2.3.Maize's Global Diversity
Maize's global presence is reflected in its diverse varieties.In Africa, for instance, maize varieties like "Zambian White Maize" and "Tanzanian Longe 10" are crucial for food security (Setimela et al., 2005) .In Asia, "Tropical Maize" varieties are adapted to the region's diverse climates and farming systems (Badu-Apraku et al., 2019) .South America also boasts unique maize varieties, including colorful "Peruvian Maize" varieties cultivated for both sustenance and cultural significance (Baltensperger, 2002) .

2.4.Genetic Resources and Conservation
The conservation of maize genetic diversity is essential for maintaining agricultural resilience.Organizations like the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) and the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) actively work to preserve and utilize maize germplasm from diverse varieties for crop improvement programs (Halewood et al., 2013) .

3.Maize's Lesser-Known Nutritional Components
Maize, commonly known for its carbohydrate-rich kernels, offers a wide array of lesser-known nutritional components that contribute to its overall value as a food source.This section explores some of these lesserknown components and their nutritional significance.

Zeaxanthin and Lutein
Zeaxanthin and lutein are carotenoids found in maize, primarily in its yellow and orange varieties.These compounds act as potent antioxidants, protecting eye health and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (Maoka et al., 2015).

Phytosterols
Maize contains phytosterols, such as β-sitosterol, which have cholesterol-lowering properties.They inhibit the absorption of dietary cholesterol in the intestine, contributing to heart health (Moreau et al., 2002).

Polyphenolic Compounds
Polyphenols, including ferulic acid and coumaric acid, are present in maize.These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases (de Camargo et al., 2019) .

Fiber Content
While often overlooked, maize is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight (Andersen et al., 2009) .

Minerals and Vitamins
Maize contains essential minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and B-vitamins such as thiamin and niacin, contributing to overall nutrition (Gupta et al., 2015).

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Phosphorus: Maize is a good source of phosphorus, an essential mineral for bone health and energy metabolism (Shenoy et al., 2009).
Magnesium: Maize contains magnesium, which is crucial for muscle and nerve function, as well as maintaining blood glucose levels (Song et al., 2016).

3.6.Antioxidants
Polyphenols: Maize contains various polyphenolic compounds such as ferulic acid and coumaric acid, which have antioxidant properties and may contribute to reducing oxidative stress (Zhao et al., 2018).These lesser-known nutritional components in maize demonstrate its potential as a well-rounded and healthpromoting food source.Further research in this area could uncover even more benefits and applications for maize-derived compounds in human nutrition.

4.Bioactive Compounds in Maize
Maize, also known as corn, is not only a vital staple crop but also a rich source of various bioactive compounds that contribute to its nutritional and medicinal value.This section explores some of the key bioactive compounds found in maize.

Phenolic Compounds
Maize contains a diverse range of phenolic compounds, including ferulic acid, coumaric acid, and anthocyanins.These compounds possess antioxidant properties and have been linked to potential health benefits (Smith et al., 2015) .

Carotenoids
Maize is a notable source of carotenoids, such as beta-carotene and lutein.These compounds are essential for eye health and overall well-being (Yuan et al., 2009).

Phytosterols
Phytosterols, like beta-sitosterol and campesterol, are present in maize and have cholesterol-lowering effects, making maize consumption beneficial for heart health (Moreau et al., 2002).

Resistant Starch
In addition to the well-known starch content, maize contains resistant starch, which acts as a prebiotic and supports gut health (Mongeau et al., 2018) .

Zein Proteins
Maize is rich in zein proteins, which have potential industrial applications, including in bioplastics and pharmaceuticals (Wu et al., 2020) .

Phytochemicals with Anti-Cancer Properties
Certain phytochemicals in maize, such as maysin, have demonstrated anti-cancer properties and are being investigated for their potential in cancer prevention and treatment (Liu et al., 2016) .

Maize in Traditional and Modern Medicine
Maize, commonly known as corn, has a rich history of use in both traditional and modern medicine.Its various biochemical components have been attributed to a range of health benefits, making it a valuable resource in healthcare practices.

6.1.Traditional Medicinal Uses
6.1.1.Corn Silk (Zea mays L.): Corn silk, the fine threads found within the husk of maize, has been used traditionally for its diuretic properties.It is believed to aid in the treatment of urinary tract infections and bladder issues (Yuan et al., 2013) .

6.1.2.Maize Bran:
Maize bran, a by product of maize milling, is a source of dietary fiber and bioactive compounds.In traditional medicine, it has been used to relieve constipation and promote digestive health (Gomez et al., 2019) .

6.2.1.Maize Phytochemicals:
Maize is a rich source of phytochemicals, including carotenoids and phenolic compounds.These bioactive compounds have antioxidant properties and may contribute to reducing the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer (Camelo-Méndez et al., 2020) .

6.2.2.Maize Proteins:
Maize proteins, particularly zeins, have gained attention in modern medicine due to their biocompatibility and potential use in drug delivery systems (Marín et al., 2019) .

6.2.3.Antimicrobial Properties:
Research has indicated that maize extracts exhibit antimicrobial activity against various pathogens, suggesting their potential in developing novel antimicrobial agents (Akhtar et al., 2017) .

6.2.4.Nutritional Support:
Maize and its derivatives serve as a valuable source of nutrition, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and energy.In clinical settings, maize-based products are used to address malnutrition and support patients' dietary needs (Cruz et al., 2020) .

7.Industrial Applications of Maize Biochemicals
Maize, beyond its role as a staple food crop, possesses a rich reservoir of biochemical compounds that find extensive use in various industrial applications.These applications span a wide range of sectors, from pharmaceuticals to biofuels.In this section, we explore some of the notable industrial applications of maize biochemicals with relevant citations and references.

Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals
 Maize-derived compounds like zein proteins have been utilized in pharmaceuticals as drug delivery systems due to their biodegradability and low immunogenicity (Gallo et al., 2018) . Maize-based nutraceuticals, including antioxidants like ferulic acid, offer potential health benefits and are incorporated into dietary supplements (de Souza et al., 2020)

7.2.Biofuels Production
 Maize serves as a valuable feedstock for biofuels production, particularly ethanol, due to its high starch content (Wang et al., 2019) . The fermentation of maize-derived sugars into ethanol has become a cornerstone of the biofuel industry (Ming et al., 2020) .

7.3.Bioplastics and Biodegradable Materials
o Starch from maize has gained popularity in the production of bioplastics and biodegradable materials, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional plastics (Averous et al., 2017) .o Modified maize starches have shown promise in enhancing the properties of biodegradable materials (Bhatia et al., 2019) .

Textile and Paper Industries
o Maize-based sizing agents and adhesives are used in the textile and paper industries, contributing to improved product quality (Lan et al., 2016) .o Maize proteins, such as gluten, have adhesive properties and find applications in paperboard production (Zhang et al., 2019) .

Enzyme Production
o Maize has been a source of industrial enzymes, including amylases and proteases, which are employed in various bioprocessing applications (Kaur et al., 2021) .o These enzymes play a crucial role in industries such as food processing and biofuel production.

Biomedical and Biotechnological Research
o Maize has become a model organism for genetic and biotechnological research, contributing to advancements in fields like gene editing and plant biotechnology (Li et al., 2019) .o Maize biochemicals are used in research applications, such as DNA extraction kits.
The industrial applications of maize biochemicals continue to expand as research unveils new possibilities, highlighting the versatility and economic importance of this crop beyond its primary role in nutrition.

8.Future Prospects and Research Directions
The exploration of maize's lesser-known biochemical marvels has opened up exciting avenues for future research.These prospects hold promise for improving nutrition, medicine, and industrial applications.This section discusses some key areas where further investigation is warranted.

Enhancing Nutritional Value
Recent studies have highlighted the potential to enhance the nutritional value of maize through biofortification strategies.Breeding programs aimed at increasing the content of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals in maize grains (Pixley et al., 2013) can help combat malnutrition, especially in regions heavily reliant on maize as a dietary staple.

Unlocking Novel Bioactive Compounds
The identification and isolation of novel bioactive compounds from maize hold significant potential.Continued research into phytochemicals such as zeaxanthin, lutein, and anthocyanins (Butelli et al., 2008;Kim et al., 2012) may unveil new applications in functional foods and dietary supplements.

Medicinal Applications
Maize-based medicines have a rich history in traditional healing practices.Investigating the pharmacological properties and potential therapeutic effects of maize-derived compounds, such as maysin (Ku et al., 2010), could lead to the development of novel pharmaceuticals.

Industrial Innovations
Maize's biochemical diversity offers opportunities for innovation in various industries.Research into bioplastics, biofuels, and biopharmaceuticals derived from maize (Sharma and Gupta, 2020) could contribute to sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.

8.5.Genomic and Metabolomic Studies
Advances in genomics and metabolomics technologies enable a comprehensive exploration of maize's biochemical composition.Integrative studies combining omics data can provide insights into the genetic regulation of key biochemical pathways (Li et al., 2019), facilitating targeted crop improvement.

Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Addressing climate change challenges and sustainable agriculture, research can focus on maize varieties with enhanced resilience to environmental stressors (Tardieu and Tuberosa, 2010).This includes droughttolerant and pest-resistant maize cultivars to ensure stable production.
As we embark on these future research directions, collaboration between plant biologists, nutritionists, pharmacologists, and engineers will be vital in harnessing the full potential of maize's biochemical marvels.

Conclusion
Exploring the diverse biochemical marvels hidden within maize presents a promising frontier in agricultural, nutritional, and pharmaceutical sciences.Maize, traditionally celebrated for its starch content, holds an array of lesser-known bioactive compounds with substantial health and industrial applications.From antioxidants and phytochemicals to essential vitamins and minerals, these constituents offer tangible health benefits, potentially combating various diseases and enhancing overall well-being.Moreover, the pharmaceutical and industrial sectors can harness maize's biochemical treasures for innovative products and sustainable practices.To unlock the full potential of maize's biochemical marvels, continued research is essential.This includes investigating different maize varieties, optimizing extraction processes, and evaluating their biological activities.Furthermore, promoting the cultivation of diverse maize varieties and incorporating them into dietary habits can contribute to better nutrition and food security.In summary, recognizing and harnessing the lesser-known biochemical marvels of maize not only enriches our understanding of this staple crop but also paves the way for a healthier and more sustainable future in agriculture and beyond.

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Antioxidant Properties: Maize contains antioxidants like carotenoids and ferulic acid, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.(Padalino et al., 2017) Digestive Health: The dietary fiber in maize, particularly in whole grains, promotes healthy digestion and may reduce the risk of constipation and digestive disorders.( Schieber and Chandel, 2014) Weight Management: Maize's fiber content can contribute to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.( Tucker et al., 2015) 5.4.Cardiovascular Health: Some maize compounds, such as phytosterols, may help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.( Othman et al., 2017)5.5.Diabetes Management:Maize's low glycemic index can assist in blood sugar control, making it a suitable choice for individuals with diabetes.(Sharma et al., 2012)   Cancer Prevention: Certain phytochemicals in maize, like lutein and zeaxanthin, have been associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, particularly eye-related cancers.(Khachiket al., 2002)