Showing papers in "Journal of Medicinal Food in 2009"
TL;DR: The effects of marine alga consumption on growth and body weight, mineral availability, lipid metabolism, blood pressure, and antioxidant properties are reviewed, together with preliminary data on the effects of some functional foods containing seaweeds on lipid metabolism and gene expression of enzymes engaged in antioxidant protection.
Abstract: While marine algae have traditionally formed part of the Oriental diet, their major use in Western countries has been in the phytocolloid industry. Only a few coastal communities outside Asia have customarily used seaweeds as components of special dishes. Of late, however, seaweeds have gained importance as foodstuffs in Western countries and most recently as components of functional foods because of their high dietary fiber, mineral, vitamin, and phytochemical content, low energy levels, and high concentrations of certain polyunsaturated fatty acids. The present paper reviews the available data for some of the components of the major edible algae and studies several factors that can affect their physiochemical properties (e.g., hydration, water and oil-holding capacity, fermentability, binding capacity, etc.) and, in turn, their nutritional importance. The effects of marine alga consumption on growth and body weight, mineral availability, lipid metabolism, blood pressure, and antioxidant properties are reviewed, together with preliminary data on the effects of some functional foods containing seaweeds on lipid metabolism and gene expression of enzymes engaged in antioxidant protection. This review concludes with some remarks regarding the danger of the improper use of seaweeds in herbal medications. In addition, as the properties of algae are highly dependent on their individual composition, any generalization regarding these properties may be considered misleading and scientifically inappropriate.
293 citations
TL;DR: Public health benefits should result from promotion of the positive components of Paleolithic diets as functional foods, including omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, fiber, and plant sterols.
Abstract: The evolution of the human diet over the past 10,000 years from a Paleolithic diet to our current modern pattern of intake has resulted in profound changes in feeding behavior. Shifts have occurred from diets high in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and seafood to processed foods high in sodium and hydrogenated fats and low in fiber. These dietary changes have adversely affected dietary parameters known to be related to health, resulting in an increase in obesity and chronic disease, including cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, and cancer. Some intervention trials using Paleolithic dietary patterns have shown promising results with favorable changes in CVD and diabetes risk factors. However, such benefits may be offset by disadvantages of the Paleolithic diet, which is low in vitamin D and calcium and high in fish potentially containing environmental toxins. More advantageous would be promotion of foods and food ingredients from our ancestral era that have been shown to possess health benefit...
196 citations
TL;DR: In at-risk obese rats fed a high fat diet, physiologically relevant tart cherry consumption reduced several phenotypes of metabolic syndrome and reduced both systemic and local inflammation.
Abstract: Obesity, systemic inflammation, and hyperlipidemia are among the components of metabolic syndrome, a spectrum of phenotypes that can precede the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Animal studies show that intake of anthocyanin-rich extracts can affect these phenotypes. Anthocyanins can alter the activity of tissue peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), which affect energy substrate metabolism and inflammation. However, it is unknown if physiologically relevant, anthocyanin-containing whole foods confer similar effects to concentrated, anthocyanin extracts. The effect of anthocyanin-rich tart cherries was tested in the Zucker fatty rat model of obesity and metabolic syndrome. For 90 days, rats were pair-fed a higher fat diet supplemented with either 1% (wt/wt) freeze-dried, whole tart cherry powder or with a calorie- and macronutrient-matched control diet. Tart cherry intake was associated with reduced hyperlipidemia, percentage fat mass, abdominal fat (retrop...
135 citations
TL;DR: The main biologically active and well-characterized constituent from the grape is resveratrol, known for various medicinal properties in human diseases.
Abstract: The grape is one of the most valued conventional fruits, worldwide. Although most of the parts of the grapevine are useful, primarily, the grape is considered as a source of unique natural products not only for the development of valuable medicines against a number of diseases, but also for manufacturing various industrial products. Over the last few decades, apart from the chemistry of grape compounds, considerable progress has been made towards exploring the biological activities of various grape-derived constituents. Today, it is well established that in addition to serving as food, the grape is a major source of several phytochemicals. The main biologically active and well-characterized constituent from the grape is resveratrol, which is known for various medicinal properties in human diseases. This review discusses the roles of various grape-derived phytochemicals in relation to various diseases.
123 citations
TL;DR: The specific consumption of legumes or high protein content within a hypocaloric diet could activate mitochondrial oxidation, which could involve additional benefits to those associated with the weight reduction.
Abstract: The nutritional composition of dietary intake could produce specific effects on metabolic variables such as mitochondrial oxidation, whose understanding could contribute to apply more indi...
107 citations
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that the cardiovascular health benefits of pomegranate may in part be related to the ability of polyphenols to inhibit platelet function, as PJ and pome Granatum extract have similar effects at concentrations expected for normal intake.
Abstract: Several studies have shown that polyphenols reduce cardiovascular accidents in high-risk patients; in particular, the inhibition of platelet function may be responsible for part of this benefit. This research studied the antiplatelet effect of Wonderful variety pomegranate (Punica granatum) products, which contain primarily hydrolyzed tannins such as ellagitannins. We have investigated in vitro the effects of treatment with either pomegranate juice (PJ) or the polyphenol-rich extract from pomegranate fruit (POMx) on platelet aggregation, calcium mobilization, thromboxane A2 production, and hydrogen peroxide formation, induced by collagen and arachidonic acid. PJ and POMx reduce all the platelet responses studied. POMx showed a stronger action in reducing platelet activation; moreover, POMx is active at the concentration that it is possible to obtain after polyphenol-rich food intake (2 μM). These results demonstrated that the cardiovascular health benefits of pomegranate may in part be related to...
99 citations
TL;DR: It can be concluded that M. oleifera extract possesses significant cardioprotective effect, which may be attributed to its antioxidant, antiperoxidative, and myocardial preservative properties.
Abstract: The present study evaluated cardioprotective effect of lyophilized hydroalcoholic extract of Moringa oleifera in the isoproterenol (ISP)-induced model of myocardial infarction. Wistar albino male rats were divided into three groups and orally fed saline once daily alone (sham) or with ISP (ISP control) or ISP with M. oleifera (200 mg/kg), respectively, for 1 month. On days 29 and 30 of administration, rats of the ISP control and M. oleifera-ISP groups were administered ISP (85 mg/kg, s.c.) at an interval of 24 hours. On day 31, hemodynamic parameters (mean arterial pressure [MAP], heart rate [HR], left ventricular end-diastolic pressure [LVEDP], and left ventricular peak positive [(+) LV dP/dt] and negative [(–) LV dP/dt] pressures were recorded. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed, and hearts were excised and processed for biochemical, histopathological, and ultrastructural studies. Chronic treatment with M. oleifera demonstrated mitigating effects on ISP-induced hemodynami...
97 citations
TL;DR: Findings suggest that neuroprotective actions of W. somnifera are mediated via its antioxidant activity, and further studies are required to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in order to support the clinical use of the plant extract as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of HD.
Abstract: Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that results from the destruction of neurons in the basal ganglia, and oxidative stress has been implicated in its pathogenesis 3-Nitropropionic acid (3-NP), a potent neurotoxin, has been reported to induce oxidative/nitrosative stress and causes neurobehavioral and biochemical changes that mimic HD in humans It also inhibits complex II of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, thereby causing cellular energy deficit In the present work, we evaluated the effects of a well-known antioxidant on behavioral, biochemical, and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by 3-NP The study was designed to investigate the effects of Withania somnifera root extract against 3-NP-induced gait abnormalities, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction in striatum and cortex of rat brain Intraperitoneal administration of 3-NP (10 mg/kg for 14 days) caused a loss in body weight and a decline in motor function (locomotor activity and impaired rotarod activity) Chronic treatment with W somnifera root extracts (100 and 200 mg/kg) for a period of 2 weeks dose-dependently improved 3-NP-induced behavioral, biochemical, and enzymatic changes (P < 05) Biochemical analysis revealed that systemic 3-NP administration significantly increased lipid peroxidation and nitrite and lactate dehydrogenase enzyme levels, depleted antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase and catalase) levels, and blocked ATP synthesis by inhibiting the mitochondrial complex activity in the different regions (striatum and cortex) of the brain Chronic administration of W somnifera root extract (100 and 200 mg/kg) dose-dependently restored biochemical alterations induced by chronic 3-NP treatment (P < 05) These findings suggest that neuroprotective actions of W somnifera are mediated via its antioxidant activity However, further studies are required to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in order to support the clinical use of the plant extract as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of HD
92 citations
TL;DR: Data of this study suggest that dietary Baechu kimchi has some antidiabetic effects even when fed with a HF-containing diet, and better results are possible if it is consumed with normal or low-fat rather than HF- containing diet.
Abstract: The present study was conducted to examine the antidiabetic effects of two dietary dosages (0.5% and 2.0%) of freeze-dried Korean traditional Baechu (Chinese cabbage) kimchi in a high-fat ...
86 citations
TL;DR: In vitro results point to the excellent potential of Peruvian fruits for food-based strategies for complementing effective antidiabetes and antihypertension solutions based on further animal and clinical studies.
Abstract: Local food diversity and traditional crops are essential for cost-effective management of the global epidemic of type 2 diabetes and associated complications of hypertension Water and 12% ethanol extracts of native Peruvian fruits such as Lucuma (Pouteria lucuma), Pacae (Inga feuille), Papayita arequipena (Carica pubescens), Capuli (Prunus capuli), Aguaymanto (Physalis peruviana), and Algarrobo (Prosopis pallida) were evaluated for total phenolics, antioxidant activity based on 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay, and functionality such as in vitro inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) relevant for potential management of hyperglycemia and hypertension linked to type 2 diabetes The total phenolic content ranged from 32 (Aguaymanto) to 114 (Lucuma fruit) mg/g of sample dry weight A significant positive correlation was found between total phenolic content and antioxidant activity for the ethanolic extracts No phenolic compound wa
86 citations
TL;DR: The results suggest that, as an adjunct to standard management, daily ingestion of camel milk can aid metabolic control in young type 1 diabetics, at least in part by boosting endogenous insulin secretion.
Abstract: There is a traditional belief in the Middle East that regular consumption of camel milk may aid in prevention and control of diabetes. The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficacy of camel milk as an adjuvant therapy in young type 1 diabetics. This 16-week randomized study enrolled 54 type 1 diabetic patients (average age 20 years) selected from those attending the outpatient diabetes clinic of the Menofia University Hospital, affiliated with Egypt's National Cancer Institute. Subjects were randomly divided into two groups of 27 patients: one received usual management (diet, exercise, and insulin), whereas the other received 500 mL of camel milk daily in addition to standard management. A control group of 10 healthy subjects was also assessed. The following parameters were evaluated at baseline and at 4 and 16 weeks: hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), human C-peptide, lipid profile, serum insulin, anti-insulin antibodies, creatinine clearance, albumin in 24-hour urine, body mass index, and Diabetes Quality of Life score. The following parameters were significantly different between the usual-management group versus the camel milk group after 16 weeks: fasting blood sugar (227.2 +/- 17.7 vs. 98.9 +/- 16.2 mg/dL), HbA1c (9.59 +/- 2.05[%] vs. 7.16 +/- 1.84[%]), serum anti-insulin antibodies (26.20 +/- 7.69 vs. 20.92 +/- 5.45 microU/mL), urinary albumin excretion (25.17 +/- 5.43 vs. 14.54 +/- 5.62 mg/dL/24 hours), daily insulin dose (48.1 +/- 6.95 vs. 23 +/- 4.05 units), and body mass index (18.43 +/- 3.59 vs. 24.3 +/- 2.95 kg/m(2)). Most notably, C-peptide levels were markedly higher in the camel milk group (0.28 +/- 0.6 vs. 2.30 +/- 0.51 pmol/mL). These results suggest that, as an adjunct to standard management, daily ingestion of camel milk can aid metabolic control in young type 1 diabetics, at least in part by boosting endogenous insulin secretion.
TL;DR: The chemical composition of three extracts of SRB are characterized and the functional bioactives contributing to the inhibitory properties against three key pro-inflammatory enzymes that control the inflammatory cascade involved in impaired joint health, pain, and arthritis are identified.
Abstract: Rice bran, the outer bran and germ of the kernel and a by-product of rice milling, is rich in phytonutrients but has been underutilized because of lipid content instability. New methods for the processing of rice bran have yielded a stabilized form that is increasingly used in foods and dietary supplements. Recent studies have documented a role for stabilized rice bran (SRB) in treating diabetes and arthritis, although little is known of the bioactive compounds that impart these health benefits. Here we characterize the chemical composition of three extracts of SRB and identify the functional bioactives contributing to the inhibitory properties against three key pro-inflammatory enzymes (cyclooxygenase [COX] 1, COX2, and 5-lipoxygenase [5-LOX]) that control the inflammatory cascade involved in impaired joint health, pain, and arthritis. One extract (SRB-AI) demonstrated significant COX1 and COX2 inhibitory activities with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC(50)) values for COX1 and COX2 of 305 and 29 microg/mL, respectively, but no 5-LOX inhibition. The second extract (SRB-AII) inhibited COX1, COX2, and 5-LOX with IC(50) values of 310, 19, and 396 microg/mL, respectively. The third extract (SRB-AIII), a blend of SRB-AI and SRB-AIII, inhibited COX1, COX2, and 5-LOX with respective IC(50) values of 48, 11, and 197 microg/mL. Analysis of the extracts by direct analysis in real time time of flight-mass spectrometry revealed that SRB-AI, SRB-AII, and SRB-AIII contain over 620, 770, and 810 compounds, respectively. Of these, 17 were identified as key bioactives for COX and/or LOX inhibition. These SRB extracts have applications for functional foods and dietary supplements for control of inflammation and joint health.
TL;DR: Various findings suggesting their benefits in alleviating symptoms associated with aging, fatigue, and autism are listed and various claims indicating their role in reducing the risks of osteoporosis, obesity, and possibly type 2 diabetes are discussed.
Abstract: Probiotics produce a beneficial impact on the host by improving the endogenous flora. It has been advocated that nonpathogenic bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium may undergo antagonistic interactions with other bacterial strains and can be used to control pathogenic bacteria. Novel modes of therapeutic and prophylactic interventions are based on their consumption either alone or in combination with prebiotics. Usefulness of probiotics has been implicated in allergies, cancer, AIDS, and respiratory and urinary tract infections. In this review we have listed various findings suggesting their benefits in alleviating symptoms associated with aging, fatigue, and autism. Newer claims indicating their role in reducing the risks of osteoporosis, obesity, and possibly type 2 diabetes are also discussed. Considering the wide array of such activities, the present review comprehensively elaborates upon the proposed benefits of probiotics. The concept of synbiotics, a combination of probiotics and prebiotics beneficially affecting the survival and implantation of such live organisms, is also discussed. Available probiotic strains, their commercial preparations, and newer approaches to improve the efficacy and overcome limitations of the therapy are also discussed in relation to the future of probiotic therapy. Considering that the purported claims about disease risk reduction are tentative, the review also encompasses various aspects regarding the safety of probiotics and their possible future role in disease prevention.
TL;DR: Given the recent upsurge in probiotic research, recommendations are made on studies that could be performed with African fermented foods and their strains, with a view to improving the health of people in sub-Saharan Africa.
Abstract: African traditional fermented foods remain the main source of nutrition for many rural communities in Africa. Although lactic acid bacteria are integral to many of these foods, little is known about the specific health benefits they confer or the properties of their strains. This mini-review explores the history of some African fermented foods and their microbial content and properties within the context of probiotic characteristics. Given the recent upsurge in probiotic research, recommendations are made on studies that could be performed with African fermented foods and their strains, with a view to improving the health of people in sub-Saharan Africa.
TL;DR: This in vitro study indicates the potential of combination of Andean whole grain cereals, pseudocereals, and legumes to develop effective dietary strategies for managing type 2 diabetes and associated hypertension and provides the rationale for animal and clinical studies.
Abstract: The health-relevant functionality of 10 thermally processed Peruvian Andean grains (five cereals, three pseudocereals, and two legumes) was evaluated for potential type 2 diabetes-relevant antihyperglycemia and antihypertension activity using in vitro enzyme assays. Inhibition of enzymes relevant for managing early stages of type 2 diabetes such as hyperglycemia-relevant α-glucosidase and α-amylase and hypertension-relevant angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) were assayed along with the total phenolic content, phenolic profiles, and antioxidant activity based on the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical assay. Purple corn (Zea mays L.) (cereal) exhibited high free radical scavenging-linked antioxidant activity (77%) and had the highest total phenolic content (8 ± 1 mg of gallic acid equivalents/g of sample weight) and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity (51% at 5 mg of sample weight). The major phenolic compound in this cereal was protocatechuic acid (287 ± 15 μg/g of sample weight). Pseudocereal...
TL;DR: Pretreatment of tissue with acai decreased H(2)O(2)-induced damage of both lipids and proteins in all tissues tested, suggesting that acai has a positive contribution in the development of age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Abstract: Oxidative stress is implicated in several human illnesses, including neurological disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Acai is largely consumed in Brazil and contains high levels of antioxidant compounds. This work aims to study the antioxidant activity of acai frozen fruit pulp in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum of rats treated with the oxidizing agent hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)). Pretreatment of tissue with acai decreased H(2)O(2)-induced damage of both lipids and proteins in all tissues tested. This fruit was also able to reduce the activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase to basal levels. We observed a negative correlation between the polyphenol content of acai and the levels of lipid (r = -0.689; P
TL;DR: Daily consumption of GoChi significantly increased several immunological responses and subjective feelings of general well-being without any adverse reactions.
Abstract: Lycium barbarum has been traditionally used in combination with several herbs for medicinal properties, but systematic modern clinical evaluation as a single herb has not been reported To examine the systematic effects of L barbarum on immune function, general well-being, and safety, we tested the effects of a standardized L barbarum fruit juice (GoChi, FreeLife International, Phoenix, AZ, USA) at 120 mL/day, equivalent to at least 150 g of fresh fruit, the amount traditionally used, or placebo for 30 days in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study in 60 older healthy adults (55-72 years old) The GoChi group showed a statistically significant increase in the number of lymphocytes and levels of interleukin-2 and immunoglobulin G compared to pre-intervention and the placebo group, whereas the number of CD4, CD8, and natural killer cells or levels of interleukin-4 and immunoglobulin A were not significantly altered The placebo group showed no significant changes in any immune measures Whereas the GoChi group showed a significant increase in general feelings of well-being, such as fatigue and sleep, and showed a tendency for increased short-term memory and focus between pre- and post-intervention, the placebo group showed no significant positive changes in these measures No adverse reactions, abnormal symptoms, or changes in body weight, blood pressure, pulse, visual acuity, urine, stool, or blood biochemistry were seen in either group In conclusion, daily consumption of GoChi significantly increased several immunological responses and subjective feelings of general well-being without any adverse reactions
TL;DR: These extracts and prenylated benzophenones represent an interesting topic for further studies and open possibilities for an alternative control of diseases associated with Gram-positive bacteria.
Abstract: The pericarp and seeds from fruits of Garcinia brasiliensis were subjected to extraction with hexane and ethanol. The pericarp hexane extract (PHE) and seed ethanol extract (SEE) were purified by silica gel column chromatography, which permitted isolation of the prenylated benzophenones 7-epiclusianone (1) and guttiferone-A (2), respectively. The antimicrobial activity of PHE, SEE, and compounds 1 and 2 were evaluated against Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus cereus cultures. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration were established. The substances presented activity against S. aureus and B. cereus as follows: PHE, 4.0 μg/mL and 2.4 μg/mL; SEE, 10.0 μg/mL and 12.6 μg/mL; 7-epiclusianone, 1.2 μg/mL and 0.6 μg/mL; and guttiferone-A, 2.4 μg/mL and 2.4 μg/mL, respectively. The direct relationship between the lipophilic character of the structure and activity in Gram-positive bacteria was specifically observed. Therefore these ex...
TL;DR: Overall, tested infusions showed significant reducing capacity as well as radical scavenging potential, which places blueberry leaf tea high on the list of dietary sources of antioxidants.
Abstract: Antioxidant capacity and polyphenolic content of leaf infusions prepared from six highbush blueberry cultivars (Vaccinium corymbosum L.), one wild lowbush blueberry cultivar (Vaccinium myrtillus L.), and one commercially available mix of genotypes were determined. In order to simulate household tea preparation conditions, infusions were prepared in water heated to 95 degrees C. The dynamics of extraction of polyphenolic antioxidants were monitored over the course of 30 minutes. Extraction efficiency, quantified in terms of the total phenol (TP) content, and antioxidant capacity of infusions, evaluated by the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging assays, were compared with cultivar type and extraction time. The 30-minute infusions exhibited the highest TP content and antioxidant capacity according to all three assays. Wild blueberry infusion had the highest TP content (1,879 mg/L gallic acid equivalents [GAE]) and FRAP values (20,050 microM). The range of TP values for 30-minute infusions was 394-1,879 mg/L GAE with a mean of 986 mg/L GAE across cultivars; FRAP values fell between 3,015 and 20,050 microM with a mean of 11,234 microM across cultivars. All 30-minute infusions exhibited significant scavenging capacity for DPPH(*) and ABTS(*+) radicals, comparable to different concentrations of catechin, gallic acid, and 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchromane-2-carboxylic acid. Overall, tested infusions showed significant reducing capacity as well as radical scavenging potential, which places blueberry leaf tea high on the list of dietary sources of antioxidants.
TL;DR: D diets enriched with blueberries seem to affect NO metabolic pathways in the aorta at basal and stimulated levels, and vessel sensitivity of BB aortic rings to the vasoconstrictor and vasodilator was significantly reduced when compared to controls.
Abstract: We have previously reported that consumption of blueberry-enriched (BB) diets attenuates the arterial contractile response to α1-adrenergic stimuli and affects vasomotor tone via endothelium-related pathways. The present study was designed to evaluate vascular function and responsiveness in aortas of weanling male Sprague-Dawley rats fed a control (C) or a BB diet for 7 weeks. Vascular ring studies were conducted in 3-mm isolated rat aortic ring preparations to investigate vasoconstriction induced by L-phenylephrine (Phe) (10−8–3 × 10−6 M) and vasorelaxation induced by acetylcholine (ACh) (10−8–3 × 10−6 M). Agonists were used alone and in the presence of nitric oxide (NO) synthase and cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors. We observed a significantly diminished vasoconstrictor response to Phe in aortic rings from rats fed the BB diet. Inhibition of NO synthase but not COX caused a significant increase in the constrictor response in both dietary groups, with the BB group having the greater response. Sim...
TL;DR: In vivo experimental results indicate that LBP might significantly inhibit PC-3 tumor growth in nude mice, and the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax protein expression following LBP treatments decreased significantly with a dose-effect relationship, which suggested that L BP can regulate the expression of B cl-2 and Bax to induce apoptosis ofPC-3 and DU-145 cells.
Abstract: Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) are important functional constituents in red-colored fruits of L. barbarum (Guo Qi Zi, a well-known traditional Chinese medicinal plant commonly known as Goji berry or wolfberry). The influence of LBP on human prostate cancer cells was systematically investigated in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro effects of LBP on two cell lines (PC-3 and DU-145) were examined by using trypan blue exclusion staining, single-cell gel electrophoresis, flow cytometry, terminal dUTP nick-end labeling assay, and immunohistochemical assay (assessment of Bcl-2 and Bax expression). The in vivo effect of LBP on PC-3 cells was assessed in the nude mouse xenograft tumor model. The in vitro results showed that LBP can dose- and time-dependently inhibit the growth of both PC-3 and DU-145 cells. LBP caused the breakage of DNA strands of PC-3 and DU-145 cells; the tail frequency and tail length were significantly higher than that of control cells. LBP also markedly induced PC-3 and DU-145 cell apoptosis, with the highest apoptosis rates at 41.5% and 35.5%, respectively. The ratio of Bcl-2/Bax protein expression following LBP treatments decreased significantly with a dose-effect relationship, which suggested that LBP can regulate the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax to induce apoptosis of PC-3 and DU-145 cells. The in vivo experimental results indicate that LBP might significantly inhibit PC-3 tumor growth in nude mice. Both the tumor volume and weight of the LBP treatment group were significantly lower than those of the control group.
TL;DR: Treatment with microencapsulated LF11976 formulation produces significant reductions in serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and serum triglyceride levels in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic hamsters, suggesting the potential of the oral microencapulated probiotic cell formulation as a functional nutritional alternative for managing excessive serum cholesterol and triglyceride Levels.
Abstract: Elevated serum cholesterol is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease. Nutritional therapies such as probiotics have been suggested to manage elevated cholesterol. This study investigates the cholesterol and triglyceride lowering potential of a microencapsulated feruloyl esterase-producing Lactobacillus fermentum 11976 (LF11976) probiotic formulation. Male Bio F(1)B hamsters were assigned to two groups to receive either the microcapsule probiotic formulation (containing LF11976 cells at 12.51 log colony-forming units/mL) or placebo formulation (empty) microcapsules, twice daily, by oral gavage for 18 weeks. For the duration of the study, animals were fed a hypercholesterolemic diet. Serum total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and the atherogenic index were 21.36%, 31.43%, and 32.59% lower in the group gavaged with the microencapsulated probiotic formulation than in the placebo control group after 18 weeks (P < .05). Histology studies showed reduced progression of atherosclerotic lesions in animals treated with microencapsulated LF11976 as compared to control animals. Treatment with microencapsulated LF11976 formulation produces significant reductions in serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and serum triglyceride levels in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic hamsters. Findings suggest the potential of the oral microencapsulated probiotic cell formulation as a functional nutritional alternative for managing excessive serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
TL;DR: Considering the IC(50) values, both herbal extracts exhibit modest and less potent anti- inflammatory activities than common synthetic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Abstract: This study elucidated possible mechanisms for the different anti-inflammatory potencies exhibited by the water extracts of Eucommia ulmoides bark and Plantago asiatica seeds, which contain various iridoids. Water extracts of both herbal materials were tested in vitro with a battery of assay models: lipopolysaccharide-induced thromboxane B(2) for cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), prostaglandin E(2) for cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), the translocation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) and nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW 264.7 cells. The contents of the iridoid glycosides, aucubin (AU), catalpol (CA), and geniposide (GE), were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Neither E. ulmoides nor P. asiatica suppressed the COX-1 enzyme. P. asiatica significantly inhibited COX-2 (concentration required for 50% inhibition [IC(50)] = 8.61 (microg/mL), TNFalpha (IC(50) = 9.63 (microg/mL), and NO (IC(50) = 8.65 (microg/mL) production. P. asiatica blocked the translocation of NF-kappaB from the cytosol to the nucleus. E. ulmoides suppressed only the COX-2 enzyme (IC(50) = 9.92 (microg/mL). The results of the HPLC analysis revealed that P. asiatica contained three iridoid glycosides, AU, CA, and GE. E. ulmoides contained CA and GE, but no AU was detected. The difference in the anti-inflammatory potencies of E. ulmoides and P. asiatica appears to be dependent on the presence of AU. Considering the IC(50) values, both herbal extracts exhibit modest and less potent anti-inflammatory activities than common synthetic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
TL;DR: It could be concluded that RJ has a protective role against Cd-induced genotoxicity and oxidative stress in mice, due to its antioxidant effects.
Abstract: Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic heavy metal that induces genotoxic damage in the body. Besides, Cd induces oxidative damage in various tissues by altering antioxidant defence enzymes system. In this study, we investigated the protective role of royal jelly (RJ) on Cd-induced genotoxicity and oxidative stress in mice. For this aim, the micronucleus (MN) test in erythrocytes and exfoliated cells of buccal mucosa and the chromosome aberration (CA) test in bone marrow cells were applied. In addition, the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were evaluated in the liver and kidneys. Thirty-six animals were divided into six groups: the control group received distilled water alone, whereas mice in the treatment groups received RJ alone (100 and 250 mg/kg of body weight), Cd alone (2 mg/kg of body weight), and RJ+Cd. Cd toxicity resulted in a significant (P < .05) increase in CAs, abnormal metaphase number, and MN formation. Cd also caused a decrease in mitotic index. Oral administration of RJ at two doses (100 and 250 mg/kg of body weight) showed significant (P < .05) suppression of mutagenic effects of Cd. Moreover, Cd-induced oxidative damage caused a significant decrease in GSH level and a significant increase in MDA level in the liver and kidneys. Treatment with two doses of RJ caused a significant recovery in antioxidant status of GSH and a significant inhibition of MDA production. It could be concluded that RJ has a protective role against Cd-induced genotoxicity and oxidative stress in mice, due to its antioxidant effects.
TL;DR: Acceptable baked products can be prepared with added fenugreek, which will reduce insulin resistance and treat type 2 diabetes, and a fenUGreek bread formula produced in a commercial bakery was tested for its taste acceptability and its effect on carbohydrate metabolism.
Abstract: Use of fenugreek, a food with demonstrated efficacy in lowering blood sugar, is limited by its bitter taste and strong flavor. A bread incorporating fenugreek using a proprietary process was tested for its taste acceptability and its effect on carbohydrate metabolism. We developed a fenugreek bread formula that was produced in a commercial bakery by incorporating fenugreek flour into a standard wheat bread formula. Whole wheat bread was prepared by the same formula in the same bakery using wheat flour. Eight diet-controlled diabetic subjects were served two slices (56 g) and 5% fenugreek. Blood glucose and insulin were tested periodically over a 4-hour period after consumption. The tests were run on two occasions 1 week apart, once with the fenugreek bread and once with regular bread. The study was double-blind, and the order was randomized and balanced. Fenugreek and whole wheat bread samples were evaluated for sensory attributes and nutrient composition. There was no statistically significant difference in proximate composition, color, firmness, texture, and flavor intensity between the fenugreek and wheat bread (P > .05). The area under the curve for glucose and insulin was lower in the fenugreek condition, but only reached significance with insulin (P < .05). The fenugreek-containing bread was indistinguishable from the whole wheat bread control. Normally, fenugreek flour impacts bread quality negatively. The bread maintained fenugreek's functional property of reducing insulin resistance. Acceptable baked products can be prepared with added fenugreek, which will reduce insulin resistance and treat type 2 diabetes.
TL;DR: Oral administration of AE and ME up to 5,000 mg/kg did not produce lethality or signs of acute toxicity in mice after 24 hours and may account for the anti-ulcer property of the unripe fruit.
Abstract: The anti-ulcer potentials of aqueous (AE) and methanol (ME) extracts of whole unripe Carica papaya fruit were evaluated using ethanol- and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer models in rats. The effect of the extracts on small intestinal propulsion was also investigated. The extracts significantly reduced the ulcer index in both experimental models (P < .05) compared to the control group. ME showed a better protection against indomethacin-induced ulcers, whereas AE was more effective against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers. The extracts also significantly (P < .05) inhibited intestinal motility, with ME showing greater activity. Oral administration of AE and ME up to 5,000 mg/kg did not produce lethality or signs of acute toxicity in mice after 24 hours. The extracts of unripe C. papaya contain terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, glycosides, saponins, and steroids. The cytoprotective and antimotility properties of the extracts may account for the anti-ulcer property of the unripe fruit.
TL;DR: Atomic force microscopy was used to probe the adhesion forces between E. coli and P-fimbriated strain HB101 and a model surface, to determine the effect of growth in cranberry products on bacterial adhesion.
Abstract: Previous clinical research has suggested that the consumption of cranberry products prevents the adhesion of Escherichia coli to uroepithelial cells by causing changes in bacterial fimbriae Atomic force microscopy was used to probe the adhesion forces between E coli (nonfimbriated strain HB101 and the P-fimbriated variant HB101pDC1) and a model surface (silicon nitride), to determine the effect of growth in cranberry products on bacterial adhesion Bacteria were grown in tryptic soy broth supplemented with either light cranberry juice cocktail (L-CJC) or cranberry proanthocyanidins (PACs) Growth of E coli HB101pDC1 and HB101 in L-CJC or PACs resulted in a decrease in adhesion forces with increasing number of cultures In a macroscale bacteria–uroepithelial cell adhesion assay a decrease in bacterial attachment was observed for E coli HB101pDC1 grown in L-CJC or PACs This effect was reversible because bacteria that were regrown in cranberry-free medium regained their ability to attach to uro
TL;DR: The present findings conclude that the turmeric extract has multiple therapeutic activities that block the cardiac, hepatic, and renal toxicities induced by DOX, and it also possibly acts as a free radical scavenger.
Abstract: The major component, called curcumin, of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) (Family Zingiberaceae) powder is responsible for its biological actions. The present study aimed to prove the protective effect of turmeric extract against doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiac, hepatic, and renal toxicity as evaluated in rats. Body weight and urine volume of the animal groups under investigation were recorded daily throughout the experimental period. Also, the cardiac, hepatic, and renal toxicities were determined by estimating the changes in serum activities of the enzymes lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK), serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, nitric oxide, albumin, and calcium, and kidney and liver tissue activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, as well as the contents of glutathione and malondialdehyde. Hyperlipidemia was also determined, and protein and albumin changes in urine were estimated. Biochemical and histopathological findings demonstrate that turmeric extract has multiple therapeutic activities that are beneficially protective, and it has an ameliorative effect against DOX-induced cardiac toxicity and hepatotoxicity and blocks DOX-induced nephrosis. Similarly, turmeric extract inhibited the DOX-induced increase in plasma cholesterol, LDH, and CK. The present findings conclude that the turmeric extract has multiple therapeutic activities that block the cardiac, hepatic, and renal toxicities induced by DOX, and it also possibly acts as a free radical scavenger.
TL;DR: The results suggest that AF protects against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity by blocking CYP2E1-mediated APAP bioactivation, by up-regulating hepatic GSH levels, and by acting as a free radical scavenger.
Abstract: The present study was undertaken to examine the protective effects of an anthocyanin fraction (AF) obtained from purple-fleshed sweet potato on acetaminophen (paraceptamol [APAP])-induced hepatotoxicity in mice and to determine the mechanism involved. Mice pretreated with AF prior to APAP administration showed significantly lower increases in serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities and hepatic malondialdehyde formation than APAP-treated animals without AF. In addition, AF prevented hepatic glutathione (GSH) depletion by APAP, and hepatic GSH levels and GSH S-transferase activities were up-regulated by AF. APAP-induced hepatotoxicity was also prevented by AF, as indicated by liver histopathology findings. In addition, the effects of AF were examined on cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2E1, the major isozyme involved in APAP bioactivation. Treatment of mice with AF significantly and dose-dependently reduced CYP2E1-dependent aniline hydroxylation and CYP2E1 protein levels. Furt...
TL;DR: It is concluded that anti-oxidative kaempferol suppressed the activation of inflammatory NF-kappaB transcription factor through NIK/IKK and MAPKs in aged rat kidney.
Abstract: Kaempferol, one of the phytoestrogens, is found in berries and Brassica and Allium species and is known to have antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, we examined the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammation effect of kaempferol in an aged animal model. To examine the effect of kaempferol in aged Sprague-Dawley rats, kaempferol was fed at 2 or 4 mg/kg/day for 10 days. The data show that kaempferol exhibited the ability to maintain redox balance. Kaempferol suppressed nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation and expression of its target genes cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and regulated upon activation, and normal T-cell expressed and secreted in aged rat kidney and in tert-butylhydroperoxide-induced YPEN-1 cells. Furthermore, kaempferol suppressed the increase of the pro-inflammatory NF-κB cascade through modulation of nuclear factor-inducing kinase (NIK)/IκB kinase (IKK) and mitogen-activated protein ...