Evaluation of Synergistic Effects of Lyophilized Fermented Rice Varieties, <i>Kattuyanam</i> and <i>Mappillai samba</i>: Phytochemical, Amino Acid, Antinutrient Content, and Bioactive Properties

Background: Traditional rice varieties, Kattuyanam (KR) and Mappillai samba (MR), are known for their nutritional and medicinal benefits. When combined as KRMR, these rice varieties are believed to exhibit synergistic bioactive properties, including antioxidants, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the synergistic bioactive properties of KR and MR rice varieties (KRMR), focusing on their phenol and flavonoid content, amino acid profiles, antinutrient levels, and biological activities, including antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Methods: KR and MR rice were combined to form KRMR, and various analyses were conducted. The phenolic and flavonoid content were measured, and amino acid profiling identified key compounds. Antinutrient assays evaluated oxalate, phytate levels, and the inhibition of amylase and glucosidase. Antioxidant activity was assessed using Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) and DPPH scavenging assays. Antibacterial activity was tested against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, while anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects were tested on HepG2 liver cancer cell lines. Results: KRMR showed high levels of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Amino acid analysis revealed the presence of histidine, threonine, valine, and leucine. Antinutrient assays indicated variable oxalate and phytate levels and inhibition of amylase and glucosidase activities. KRMR demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. Antioxidant assays revealed high FRAP and DPPH scavenging capacities. Additionally, KRMR exhibited significant anti-inflammatory and anticancer activity, particularly against HepG2 cells. Conclusion: The combination of Kattuyanam and M. samba rice (KRMR) enhances bioactive properties, demonstrating strong antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. KRMR is a promising source of bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. Major Findings: The study concludes by highlighting the various nutritional profiles and bioactive characteristics of the Kattuyanam and M. samba in combination, which suggests its wide variety of health benefits.