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Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies

A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Phytochemicals and Human Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 September 2023) | Viewed by 65405

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Felicite Noubissi-Kamdem

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biology, College of Science Engineering and Technology, Jackson State University, 1400 JR Lynch St., Jackson, MS 39217, USA
Interests: molecular mechanisms of cancer development and metastasis; role of IGF2BP1 in the pathology of colorectal cancer and basal cell carcinoma; cancer cell fusion and breast tumor heterogeneity and metastasis; mRNA turnover and cancer development
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Anthony L. Walker

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Clinical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 1800 Bienville Drive, Monroe, LA 71201, USA
Interests: pharmacy practice; laboratory pedagogy and teaching styles; pharmaceutical compounding; natural products and formulation; compounding novel dosage forms for drug delivery; pharmacy practice clinical; educational and natural product research; health screening in under-privileged communities
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Jean Christopher Chamcheu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biological Sciences and Chemistry, College of Sciences and Engineering, Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA 70807, USA
Interests: skin health and diseases; carcinogenesis; inflammation; dermatology; psoriasis; atopic dermatitis; bioactive natural products; antioxidants; polyphenols; flavonoids; tissue engineering; signaling pathways; pharmacology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The homeostasis of the human body is guaranteed throughout life, and across all ages, by the use of nature’s blessed natural dietary products or in their modified format as synthetic scaffold products that help to boost immunity, maintain health, treat ailments or prevent disease occurrence or recurrence, and thus ensure normal wellbeing. Biologically active natural and plant-derived (e.g., fruits and vegetables) product preparations and synthetic scaffold products are garnering interest as valid human-health promotion, disease prevention, and management  entities, both in modern and alternative medicine. Several of these bio-actives are antioxidants, polyphenols, and other major medicinal entities that regulate vital physiological processes including gene expression, protein synthesis, metabolism, differentiation, and growth by mechanisms that are not well understood. Through epidemiological and intervention studies, several of these bioactives have been claimed and/or proven to offer protection against aging and health, environmental hazards, oxidative stress, infection and several chronic inflammatory diseases like acne, atopic dermatitis, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, psoriasis, diabetes, diabetic ulcers, chronic wounds, various cancers, obesity, and several associated risk factors. Moreover, cutting-edge research utilizing physiologically attainable doses in appropriate in vitro and preclinical model systems have provided some mechanistic insights into their benefits. Additionally, validating the health-beneficial effects of nutraceuticals or pharmaceuticals and the detailed understanding of their intake, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, dose–response relationship, and efficacy are thought-provoking of complex relations, and such studies are warranted.

The purpose of this Special Issue is to update knowledge vis-à-vis the role of bioactive natural products from plants and dietary sources and synthetic scaffold compounds in human health and diseases such as those affecting the skin, other epithelial tissues like the breast, and other organ systems to shed light on the global relevance of scientific research findings on their usages. This may range from human health promotion, to disease prevention and treatment, to the reduction of adverse side effects, misuse, and purposeless spending.

To help bridge the current knowledge gap, this Special Issue of Nutrients invites the submission of manuscripts describing original research, communications, legislative documentations, or quality reviews of the scientific literature in health promotion and disease prevention and treatment in skin and other organs. These conditions may include but are not limited to infection; environmental and oxidative stress; chronic inflammatory diseases including skin conditions like acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and diabetic wounds; and various kinds of cancer. Submissions addressing a broad range of topics, including studies covering bioavailability, understanding physiological functional processes, molecular targets, pathways, and mechanisms of action are welcome. These may be in vitro studies, preclinical animal models, human population studies, and dietary intervention studies evaluating impacts on human health, disease prevention and management, and advice on intake and usage.

We look forward to your exciting submissions.

Dr. Felicite Noubissi-Kamdem
Dr. Anthony L. Walker
Dr. Jean Christopher Chamcheu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis
  • antioxidants and phenolic compounds
  • breast cancer
  • chronic human diseases
  • bioavailability and bioactivity
  • environmental factors and skin health
  • skin beauty, ageing, and disease
  • infection, immunity, and inflammation
  • cancer
  • natural dietary bioactives and food supplements
  • nutraceuticals and synthetic bioactive products
  • natural dietary products as alternative medicine
  • natural/synthetic bioactive agents for chemoprevention
  • nanoformulations and nanomedicine
  • human intervention trials
  • natural products, preclinical and clinical trials
  • natural and synthetic antimicrobials and immune-modulatory agents
  • phytonutrients for human health and disease

Published Papers (23 papers)

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13 pages, 1332 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Consumption of Green Tea Can Reduce the Degree of Depression in Postmenopausal Women by Increasing Estradiol
by Zhenyu Wan, Xucong Qin, Yuling Tian, Fangcheng Ouyang, Gaohua Wang and Qirong Wan
Nutrients 2023, 15(21), 4514; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15214514 - 25 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6349
Abstract
Postmenopausal women face a higher risk of depression due to a combination of social and physiological factors. As a beverage rich in a variety of bioactive substances, green tea has significant effects on metabolism, inflammation and endocrine, and may reduce the risk of [...] Read more.
Postmenopausal women face a higher risk of depression due to a combination of social and physiological factors. As a beverage rich in a variety of bioactive substances, green tea has significant effects on metabolism, inflammation and endocrine, and may reduce the risk of depression, but few studies have looked at the effects of green tea on postmenopausal women. Therefore, we designed this study to investigate the effects of long-term green tea consumption on inflammation, endocrine and depression levels in postmenopausal women. We investigated a tea-producing village and eventually included 386 postmenopausal women, both in the tea drinking and control groups. The results showed that there were significant differences in the degree of insomnia, degree of depression, BMI, SII and estradiol between the two groups. And, green tea consumption may reduce the risk of depression through the mediating pathway of sleep, SII and estradiol. In summary, long-term green tea consumption can reduce the risk of depression in postmenopausal women by reducing inflammation and increasing estradiol. This kind of living habit deserves further promotion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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13 pages, 613 KiB  
Article
Aronia in the Type 2 Diabetes Treatment Regimen
by Christine B. Christiansen, Per B. Jeppesen, Kjeld Hermansen and Søren Gregersen
Nutrients 2023, 15(19), 4188; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15194188 - 28 Sep 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1722
Abstract
Aronia melanocarpa berries are rich in antioxidants and possess a high antioxidant capacity. Aronia berries have shown potential in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treatment, and previous studies indicate improvements in glycemia after supplementation. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of aronia berries is limited by [...] Read more.
Aronia melanocarpa berries are rich in antioxidants and possess a high antioxidant capacity. Aronia berries have shown potential in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treatment, and previous studies indicate improvements in glycemia after supplementation. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of aronia berries is limited by the low bioavailability of aronia, which fermentation could potentially overcome. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of fermented or non-fermented aronia pulp with placebo in subjects with T2DM. This study was a triple-blinded, triple-crossover study with eight-week intervention periods with fermented aronia extract (FAE), non-fermented aronia extract (AE), and placebo. Extracts were incorporated in snack bars with 37% aronia (FAE or AE) or wheat bran (placebo) and 63% raisins and coconut oil. Pre- and post-treatment period, we did fasting blood samples, including hemoglobin A1c, fructosamine, insulin, glucose, glucagon-like peptide-1, glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and glucagon, oral glucose tolerance tests, and anthropometric measurements. Of 36 randomized participants, 23 completed the trial. Aside from a higher increase in GIP after FAE supplementation compared to after placebo supplementation, aronia extracts had no effect. The increase in GIP levels after FAE supplementation may hold potential benefits, but the overall clinical impact remains unclear. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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22 pages, 3313 KiB  
Article
Hesperetin-7-O-glucoside/β-cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex Induces Acute Vasodilator Effect to Inhibit the Cold Sensation Response during Localized Cold-Stimulate Stress in Healthy Human Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover, and Placebo-Controlled Study
by Mahendra P. Kapoor, Masamitsu Moriwaki, Aya Abe, So Morishima, Makoto Ozeki and Norio Sato
Nutrients 2023, 15(17), 3702; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15173702 - 24 Aug 2023
Viewed by 948
Abstract
Hesperetin, a citrus flavonoid, exerts vasodilation and is expected to improve endothelial function and alleviate cold sensation by activating nervous system thermal transduction pathways. In this randomized, double-blind, crossover, and placebo-controlled study, the purpose was to assess the effect of an orally administered [...] Read more.
Hesperetin, a citrus flavonoid, exerts vasodilation and is expected to improve endothelial function and alleviate cold sensation by activating nervous system thermal transduction pathways. In this randomized, double-blind, crossover, and placebo-controlled study, the purpose was to assess the effect of an orally administered highly bioavailable soluble inclusion complex of hesperetine-7-O-glucoside with β-cyclodextrin (HEPT7G/βCD; SunActive® HES/HCD) on cold sensation response during localized cold-stimulated stress in healthy humans. A significant (p ≤ 0.05) dose-dependent increase in skin cutaneous blood flow following relatively small doses of HEPT7G/βCD inclusion complex ingestion was confirmed, which led to a relatively effective recovery of peripheral skin temperature. The time delay of an increase in blood flow during rewarming varied significantly between low- and high-dose HEPT7G/βCD inclusion complex consumption (e.g., 150 mg and 300 mg contain 19.5 mg and 39 mg of HEPT7G, respectively). In conclusion, the substantial alteration in peripheral skin blood flow observed during local cooling stress compared to placebo suggested that deconjugated hesperetin metabolites may have a distinct capacity for thermoregulatory control of human skin blood flow to maintain a constant body temperature during cold stress exposure via cutaneous vasodilation and vasoconstriction systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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14 pages, 2866 KiB  
Article
Blood Microbiota Profile Is Associated with the Responsiveness of Postprandial Lipemia to Platycodi radix Beverage: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Healthy Subjects
by Seunghee Kang, Inhye Lee, Soo-yeon Park, Ji Yeon Kim, Youjin Kim, Jeong-Sook Choe and Oran Kwon
Nutrients 2023, 15(14), 3267; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15143267 - 24 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1176
Abstract
Prolonged postprandial hyperlipidemia may cause the development of cardiovascular diseases. This study explored whether postprandial triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TRL) clearance responsiveness to Platycodi radix beverage (PR) is associated with changes in blood microbiota profiles. We conducted an 8-week randomized controlled clinical trial involving normolipidemic [...] Read more.
Prolonged postprandial hyperlipidemia may cause the development of cardiovascular diseases. This study explored whether postprandial triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TRL) clearance responsiveness to Platycodi radix beverage (PR) is associated with changes in blood microbiota profiles. We conducted an 8-week randomized controlled clinical trial involving normolipidemic adults with low fruit and vegetable intakes. Participants underwent an oral fat tolerance test and 16S amplicon sequencing analysis of blood microbiota. Using the Qualitative Interaction Trees, we identified responders as those with higher baseline dietary fat intake (>38.5 g/day) and lipoprotein lipase levels (>150.6 ng/mL), who showed significant reductions in AUC for triglyceride (TG) and chylomicron-TG after the oral fat tolerance test. The LEfSe analysis showed differentially abundant blood microbiota between responders and non-responders. A penalized logistic regression algorithm was employed to predict the responsiveness to intervention on the TRL clearance based on the background characteristics, including the blood microbiome. Our findings suggest that PR intake can modulate postprandial TRL clearance in adults consuming higher fat intake over 38.5 g/day and low fruit and vegetable intake through shared links to systemic microbial signatures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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15 pages, 3728 KiB  
Article
Lysophosphatidylcholine-DHA Specifically Induces Cytotoxic Effects of the MDA-MB-231 Human Breast Cancer Cell Line In Vitro—Comparative Effects with Other Lipids Containing DHA
by Dalal Mohamad Ali, Kevin Hogeveen, Rose-Marie Orhant, Tiphaine Le Gal de Kerangal, Françoise Ergan, Lionel Ulmann and Gaëlle Pencreac’h
Nutrients 2023, 15(9), 2137; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15092137 - 29 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2351
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6 ω-3) is a dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid that has an important role in human health. Epidemiological studies linked a high intake of DHA to a reduced risk of certain cancers. Recently, attention focused on how the lipid carrier in [...] Read more.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6 ω-3) is a dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid that has an important role in human health. Epidemiological studies linked a high intake of DHA to a reduced risk of certain cancers. Recently, attention focused on how the lipid carrier in which DHA is delivered, i.e., esterified on acylglycerols, phospholipids, or free, affects its biological effects. However, studies comparing the effects of these different forms for DHA supply to cancer cells in vitro are limited. In this study, the effect of free DHA and five lipids carrying one to three DHA chains (LPC-DHA, PC-DHA, MAG-DHA, DAG-DHA and TAG-DHA) on the viability of the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line was compared. Our results revealed a strong structure–function relationship of DHA-carrying lipids on the viability of MDA-MB-231 cells. Glycerophosphocholine-based lipids are the most effective DHA carriers in reducing the viability of MDA-MB-231 cells, with LPC-DHA being more effective (IC50 = 23.7 µM) than PC-DHA (IC50 = 67 µM). The other tested lipids are less toxic (MAG-DHA, free DHA) or even not toxic (DAG-DHA, TAG-DHA) under our conditions. Investigating the mechanism of cell death induced by LPC-DHA revealed increased oxidative stress and membrane cell damage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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12 pages, 273 KiB  
Article
Safety and Tolerability of Whole Soybean Products: A Dose-Escalating Clinical Trial in Older Adults with Obesity
by Candida J. Rebello, Stephen Boué, Ronald J. Levy, Jr., Renée Puyau, Robbie A. Beyl, Frank L. Greenway, Mark L. Heiman, Jeffrey N. Keller, Charles F. Reynolds III and John P. Kirwan
Nutrients 2023, 15(8), 1920; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15081920 - 16 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1415
Abstract
Soybean products have nutrients, dietary fiber, and phytoalexins beneficial for cardiovascular and overall health. Despite their high consumption in Asian populations, their safety in Western diets is debated. We conducted a dose-escalating clinical trial of the safety and tolerability of soybean products in [...] Read more.
Soybean products have nutrients, dietary fiber, and phytoalexins beneficial for cardiovascular and overall health. Despite their high consumption in Asian populations, their safety in Western diets is debated. We conducted a dose-escalating clinical trial of the safety and tolerability of soybean products in eight older adults (70–85 years) with obesity. Whole green soybean pods grown under controlled conditions were processed to flour (WGS) at the United States Department of Agriculture using common cooking techniques such as slicing and heat treatment. WGS incorporated into food products was consumed at 10 g, 20 g, and 30 g/day for one week at each dose. The gastrointestinal outcomes, clinical biomarkers, and adverse events were evaluated. We explored the stimulation of phytoalexin (glyceollin) production in live viable soybean seeds (LSS-G). We compared the compositions of WGS and LSS-G with commercial soybean flour and its fermented and enzymatically hydrolyzed forms. We found that although 30 g WSG was well-tolerated, and it made participants feel full. Our processing produced glyceollins (267 µg/g) in LSS-G. Processing soybean flour decreased the iron content, but reduced the oligosaccharides, which could attenuate flatulence. Providing soybean flour at <30 g/day may be prudent for overall health and to prevent the exclusion of other food groups and nutrients in older adults with obesity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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15 pages, 635 KiB  
Article
Metabolic and Dietary Factors in Acne Vulgaris and Evaluation of the Acne Vulgaris Treatment with Oral Contraceptive-Based Therapies in Young Adult Women
by Mateusz Kozłowski, Mirela Niedzielska, Anna Lorenz, Agnieszka Brodowska, Ewelina Malanowska, Adam Przepiera, Aneta Cymbaluk-Płoska and Elżbieta Sowińska-Przepiera
Nutrients 2023, 15(6), 1488; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15061488 - 20 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2444
Abstract
The etiopathogenesis of acne is complex, as several endo- and exogenous factors that affect the sebaceous-hair unit are involved in the development of acne lesions. The main aim of the study was to evaluate selected metabolic parameters before treatment. Another goal of the [...] Read more.
The etiopathogenesis of acne is complex, as several endo- and exogenous factors that affect the sebaceous-hair unit are involved in the development of acne lesions. The main aim of the study was to evaluate selected metabolic parameters before treatment. Another goal of the study was to determine the correlation between selected metabolic and dietary parameters and the severity of acne before treatment. The third objective was to assess the severity of acne before and after treatment, considering the type of treatment used. The final objective was to assess the relationship between the difference in acne severity before and after treatment, considering the type of treatment used and factors of dairy or sweets intake. 168 women participated in the study. The patients belonged to two groups: the study group (99 patients with acne vulgaris) and the control group (69 patients without skin lesions). The study group was divided into subgroups according to the treatment used: contraceptive preparation, contraceptive preparation and cyproterone acetate, and contraceptive preparation and isotretinoin preparation. We found that LDL levels and consumption of sweets correlated with acne severity. The mainstay of acne treatment is contraceptive treatment (ethinylestradiol and drospirenone). The effectiveness of the three contraceptive-based treatments was confirmed by observing the severity of acne. There were no significant correlations between the difference in acne severity before and after treatment with the three treatments and factors of dairy or sweet consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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12 pages, 2498 KiB  
Article
Hordenine Activated Dermal Papilla Cells and Promoted Hair Regrowth by Activating Wnt Signaling Pathway
by Caibing Wang, Kai Zang, Zexin Tang, Ting Yang, Xiyun Ye and Yongyan Dang
Nutrients 2023, 15(3), 694; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15030694 - 30 Jan 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2907
Abstract
Hordenine is effective in treating hyperpigmentation, fighting diabetes and resisting fibrosis and acute inflammation. However, the role of Hordenine on hair growth has not been elucidated. Here, we found that Hordenine treatments significantly enhance proliferation of primary mouse dermal-papilla cells (DPCs) and increase [...] Read more.
Hordenine is effective in treating hyperpigmentation, fighting diabetes and resisting fibrosis and acute inflammation. However, the role of Hordenine on hair growth has not been elucidated. Here, we found that Hordenine treatments significantly enhance proliferation of primary mouse dermal-papilla cells (DPCs) and increase the activity of DPCs in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, Hordenine markedly promoted the elongation of the hair shaft in the model of in vitro-cultured mouse vibrissa follicle and accelerated hair regrowth in a mouse model of depilation-induced hair regeneration. Real-time PCR, Western Blot and immunofluorescent assays showed that nuclear β-catenin and its downstream gene expression such as Lef1, Axin2, Cyclin D1 and ALP were greatly upregulated in DPCs and mouse hair follicles after Hordenine treatments. Moreover, the increased DPCs’ proliferation and hair shaft elongation of cultured mouse vibrissa follicles induced by Hordenine treatments were rescued by a Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibitor, FH535. These data indicate that Hordenine can effectively enhance DPCs’ activity and accelerate hair regrowth through activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, these findings suggest Hordenine/its derivatives may be potentially used for preventing and treating alopecia in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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25 pages, 13202 KiB  
Article
The Hypoglycemic and Hypocholesterolemic Activity of Dioscorea deltoidea, Tribulus terrestris and Panax japonicus Cell Culture Biomass in Rats with High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity
by Maria N. Povydysh, Maria V. Titova, Dmitry Yu. Ivkin, Marina V. Krasnova, Ekaterina R. Vasilevskaya, Liliya V. Fedulova, Igor M. Ivanov, Andrey G. Klushin, Elena V. Popova and Alexander M. Nosov
Nutrients 2023, 15(3), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15030656 - 28 Jan 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2549
Abstract
Obesity, and its consequences for human health, is a huge and complicated problem that has no simple solution. The constant search for natural and safe compounds with systemic action that can be used for obesity prophylactics and treatment is hampered by the limited [...] Read more.
Obesity, and its consequences for human health, is a huge and complicated problem that has no simple solution. The constant search for natural and safe compounds with systemic action that can be used for obesity prophylactics and treatment is hampered by the limited availability and variable quality of biomass of wild medicinal plants. Plant cell biotechnology is an alternative approach for the sustainable production of vegetative biomass or individual phytochemicals with high therapeutic potential. In this study, the suspension cell biomass of the medicinal plants, Dioscorea deltoidea Wall., Tribulus terrestris L., and Panax japonicus (T. Nees) C.A. Mey, produced in 20 L and 630 L bioreactors, were tested for therapeutic effects in rat models with alimentary-induced obesity. Three-month intake of water infusions of dry cell biomass (100 mg/g body weight) against the background of a hypercaloric diet reduced weight gain and the proportion of fat mass in the obese animals. In addition, cell biomass preparation reduced the intracellular dehydration and balanced the amounts of intra- and extracellular fluids in the body as determined by bioimpedance spectroscopy. A significant decrease in the glucose and cholesterol levels in the blood was also observed as a result of cell biomass administration for all species. Hypocholesterolemic activity reduced in the line P. japonicus > D. deltoidea > T. terrestris/liraglutide > intact group > control group. By the sum of parameters tested, the cell culture of D. deltoidea was considered the most effective in mitigating diet-induced obesity, with positive effects sometimes exceeding those of the reference drug liraglutide. A safety assessment of D. deltoidea cell phytopreparation showed no toxic effect on the reproductive function of the animals and their offspring. These results support the potential application of the biotechnologically produced cell biomass of medicinal plant species as safe and effective natural remedies for the treatment of obesity and related complications, particularly for the long-term treatment and during pregnancy and lactation periods when conventional treatment is often contraindicated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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20 pages, 5079 KiB  
Article
Narrow Leafed Lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L.) β-Conglutin Seed Proteins as a New Natural Cytotoxic Agents against Breast Cancer Cells
by Julia Escudero-Feliu, María García-Costela, Sara Moreno-SanJuan, Jose D. Puentes-Pardo, Sandra Ríos Arrabal, Paula González-Novoa, María Isabel Núñez, Ángel Carazo, Jose C. Jimenez-Lopez and Josefa León
Nutrients 2023, 15(3), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15030523 - 19 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2317
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most widespread tumor in women and the second type of most common cancer worldwide. Despite all the technical and medical advances in existing therapies, between 30 and 50% of patients with BC will develop metastasis, which contributes to [...] Read more.
Breast cancer (BC) is the most widespread tumor in women and the second type of most common cancer worldwide. Despite all the technical and medical advances in existing therapies, between 30 and 50% of patients with BC will develop metastasis, which contributes to the failure of existing treatments. This situation urges the need to find more effective prevention and treatment strategies like the use of plant-based nutraceutical compounds. In this context, we purified three Narrow Leafed Lupin (NLL) β-conglutins isoforms using affinity-chromatography and evaluated their effectiveness in terms of viability, proliferation, apoptosis, stemness properties, and mechanism of action on both BC cell lines and a healthy one. NLL β-conglutins proteins have very promising effects at the molecular level on BC cells at very low concentrations, emerging as a potential natural cytotoxic agent and preserving the viability of healthy cells. These proteins could act through a dual mechanism involving tumorigenic and stemness-related genes such as SIRT1 and FoxO1, depending on the state of p53. More studies must be carried out to completely understand the underlying mechanisms of action of these nutraceutical compounds in BC in vitro and in vivo, and their potential use for the inhibition of other cancer cell types. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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0 pages, 2935 KiB  
Article
Effects of Fermented Garlic Extract Containing Nitric Oxide Metabolites on Blood Flow in Healthy Participants: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Ji Soo Baik, Ji Hong Min, Sung Min Ju, Jae Hyun Ahn, Sung Hwa Ko, Hyun Soo Chon, Min Sun Kim and Yong Il Shin
Nutrients 2022, 14(24), 5238; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14245238 - 08 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5309
Abstract
Aged or fermented garlic extract (FGE) is a natural remedy that improves vascular function through increasing vascular nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. This is because nitrite (NO2−), a NO metabolite, can be produced through bioconversion with macrobacteria during the fermentation of [...] Read more.
Aged or fermented garlic extract (FGE) is a natural remedy that improves vascular function through increasing vascular nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. This is because nitrite (NO2−), a NO metabolite, can be produced through bioconversion with macrobacteria during the fermentation of foods like garlic. We aimed to evaluate the effects of NO2− in FGE on blood flow (BF), blood pressure (BP), velocity of the common carotid artery (CCA) and internal carotid artery (ICA), regional cerebral BF (rCBF), and peripheral BF (PBF). The study was divided into two parts: (1) Thirty healthy adults were divided into FGE and placebo groups to compare BP and velocity of the CCA and ICA; and (2) Twenty-eight healthy adults were divided into FGE and placebo groups to compare rCBF and PBF and determine changes before/after ingestion. Significant changes were noted in BP and the velocity of both CCA 30–60 min after FGE ingestion. FGE ingestion resulted in significant increases in rCBF and increases in body surface temperature through alterations in PBF. No detectable clinical side effects were noted. Overall, oral administration of NO2− containing FGE demonstrated acute positive effects in upregulating BF, including the CCA, BP, rCBF, and PBF. Follow-up studies with larger sample sizes and long-term ingestion may be needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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15 pages, 2468 KiB  
Article
α-Bisabolol Attenuates NF-κB/MAPK Signaling Activation and ER-Stress-Mediated Apoptosis by Invoking Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Defense Systems against Doxorubicin-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Rats
by Seenipandi Arunachalam, Mohamed Fizur Nagoor Meeran, Sheikh Azimullah, Niraj Kumar Jha, Dhanya Saraswathiamma, Alia Albawardi, Rami Beiram and Shreesh Ojha
Nutrients 2022, 14(21), 4648; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14214648 - 03 Nov 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1787
Abstract
The present study investigated the effects of α-bisabolol on DOX-induced testicular damage in rats. Testicular damage was induced in rats by injecting DOX (12.5 mg/kg, i.p., single dose) into rats. α-Bisabolol (25 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered to the rats along with DOX pre- [...] Read more.
The present study investigated the effects of α-bisabolol on DOX-induced testicular damage in rats. Testicular damage was induced in rats by injecting DOX (12.5 mg/kg, i.p., single dose) into rats. α-Bisabolol (25 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered to the rats along with DOX pre- and co-treatment daily for a period of 5 days. DOX-injected rats showed a decrease in absolute testicular weight and relative testicular weight ratio along with concomitant changes in the levels/expression levels of oxidative stress markers and Nrf2 expression levels in the testis. DOX injection also triggered the activation of NF-κB/MAPK signaling and increased levels/expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) and inflammatory mediators (iNOS and COX-2) in the testis. DOX triggered apoptosis, manifested by an increment in the expression levels of pro-apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl2, cleaved caspase-3 and -9, and cytochrome-C) and a decline in the expression levels of anti-apoptotic markers (Bcl-xL and Bcl2) in the testis. Additionally, light microscopy revealed the changes in testicular architecture. α-Bisabolol rescued alterations in the testicular weight; restored all biochemical markers; modulated the expression levels of Nrf2-mediated antioxidant responses, NF-κB/MAPK signaling, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and apoptosis markers in DOX-injected testicular toxicity in rats. Based on our findings, it can be concluded that α-bisabolol has the potential to attenuate DOX-induced testicular injury by modifying NF-κB/MAPK signaling and the ER-stress-mediated mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis by invoking Nrf2-dependent antioxidant defense systems in rats. Based on the findings of the present study, α-bisabolol could be suggested for use as an agent or adjuvant with chemotherapeutic drugs to attenuate their deleterious effects of DOX on many organs including the testis. However, further regulatory toxicology and preclinical studies are necessary before making recommendations in clinical tests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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12 pages, 2006 KiB  
Article
In Vitro and In Vivo Sucrosomial® Berberine Activity on Insulin Resistance
by Maria Giovanna Lupo, Elisa Brilli, Virginia De Vito, Germano Tarantino, Stefania Sut, Irene Ferrarese, Giovanni Panighel, Daniela Gabbia, Sara De Martin, Stefano Dall’Acqua and Nicola Ferri
Nutrients 2022, 14(17), 3595; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14173595 - 31 Aug 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2122
Abstract
Background: Berberine is a natural alkaloid with hypoglycemic properties. However, its therapeutic use is limited by a very low oral bioavailability. Here we developed a new oral formulation of berberine based on Sucrosomial® technology and tested its effect on insulin resistance. [...] Read more.
Background: Berberine is a natural alkaloid with hypoglycemic properties. However, its therapeutic use is limited by a very low oral bioavailability. Here we developed a new oral formulation of berberine based on Sucrosomial® technology and tested its effect on insulin resistance. Methods: Sucrosomial® berberine was first tested in vitro in the hepatoma cell line Huh7 to assess its effect on proteins involved in glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance. The pharmacokinetics and efficacy on insulin resistance were then studied in C57BL/6 mice fed with standard (SD) and high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks and treated daily during the last 8 weeks with oral gavage of Sucrosomial® berberine or berberine. Results: Sucrosomial® berberine did not affect Huh7 cell viability at concentrations up to 40 µM. Incubation of Huh7 with 20 µM of Sucrosomial® and control berberine induced glucokinase (GK) and the phosphorylation of 5′-adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK), both known targets for the control of insulin resistance. In vivo, we observed an 8-fold higher plasma concentration after 3 weeks of oral administration of 50 mg/kg/day of Sucrosomial® formulation compared to berberine. HFD, compared to SD, induced insulin resistance in mice as determined by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The treatment with a 6.25 mg/kg/daily dose of Sucrosomial® berberine significantly reduced the area under the curve (AUC) of OGTT (73,103 ± 8645 vs. 58,830 ± 5597 mg/dL × min), while control berberine produced the same effects at 50 mg/Kg/day (51518 ± 1984 mg/dL × min). Under these conditions, the two formulations resulted in similar berberine plasma concentration in mice. Nevertheless, a different tissue distribution of metabolites was observed with a significant accumulation of reduced, demethylated and glucuronide berberine in the brain after the oral administration of the Sucrosomial® form. Glucuronide berberine plasma concentration was higher with Sucrosomial® berberine compared to normal berberine. Finally, we observed similar increases of AMPK phosphorylation in the liver in response to the treatment with Sucrosomial® berberine and berberine. Conclusions: The Sucrosomial® formulation is an innovative and effective technology to improve berberine gastrointestinal (GI) absorption with proven in vitro and in vivo activity on insulin resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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19 pages, 2802 KiB  
Article
Polyphenol-Rich Date Palm Fruit Seed (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) Extract Inhibits Labile Iron, Enzyme, and Cancer Cell Activities, and DNA and Protein Damage
by Hosam M. Habib, Esmail M. El-Fakharany, Usama D. Souka, Fatma M. Elsebaee, Mohamed G. El-Ziney and Wissam H. Ibrahim
Nutrients 2022, 14(17), 3536; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14173536 - 27 Aug 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2914
Abstract
Date palm fruit seed (Phoenix dactylifera L.) extract (DSE), an under-utilized resource, is a rich source of polyphenols with high potency for disease prevention and antioxidative activities. For the first time, the present study demonstrated that DSE inhibits labile iron activity and [...] Read more.
Date palm fruit seed (Phoenix dactylifera L.) extract (DSE), an under-utilized resource, is a rich source of polyphenols with high potency for disease prevention and antioxidative activities. For the first time, the present study demonstrated that DSE inhibits labile iron activity and DNA and BSA damage and inhibits acetylcholinesterase and tyrosinase activities. Moreover, DSE reduces the proliferation of hepatic, colorectal, and breast cancer cells dose-dependently through apoptotic mechanisms. Furthermore, DSE significantly suppressed the expression of both BCl-2 and P21 genes and increased the P53 expression level when compared with the untreated cells and the 5-FU treated cells. These findings suggest a strong potential for DSE in protecting against the iron-catalyzed ferroptosis that results in programmed cell death. The results also confirm the efficacy of DSE against cancer cells. Therefore, DSE constitutes a valuable candidate for developing functional foods and for natural compound-based chemotherapy for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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8 pages, 755 KiB  
Article
Pharmacokinetic Comparison of Chitosan-Derived and Biofermentation-Derived Glucosamine in Nutritional Supplement for Bone Health
by Hee Eun Kang, Seung Jin Kim, Eun-ji Yeo, Jina Hong, Arun Rajgopal, Chun Hu, Mary A. Murray, Jennifer Dang and Eunmi Park
Nutrients 2022, 14(15), 3213; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14153213 - 05 Aug 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1929
Abstract
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate have been used as nutritional supplementation for joint tissues and osteoarthritis (OA). Biofermented glucosamine is of great interest in the supplement industry as an alternative source of glucosamine. The purpose of this study is to compare the pharmacokinetics of [...] Read more.
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate have been used as nutritional supplementation for joint tissues and osteoarthritis (OA). Biofermented glucosamine is of great interest in the supplement industry as an alternative source of glucosamine. The purpose of this study is to compare the pharmacokinetics of chitosan-derived glucosamine and biofermentation-derived glucosamine as nutritional supplementation. In a randomized, double-blind and cross-over study design, we recruited subjects of healthy men and women. The pharmacokinetics of glucosamine were examined after a single dose of glucosamine sulfate 2KCl (1500 mg) with two different sources of glucosamine (chitosan-derived glucosamine and biofermentation-derived glucosamine) to male and female subjects fitted with intravenous (iv) catheters for repeated blood sampling up to 8 h. According to plasma concentration–time curve of glucosamine after an oral administration of 1500 mg of glucosamine sulfate 2KCl, AUC0–8h and AUC0–∞ values of glucosamine following oral administration of chitosan-derived and biofermentation-derived glucosamine formulations were within the bioequivalence criteria (90% CI of ratios are within 0.8–1.25). The mean Cmax ratios for these two formulations (90% CI of 0.892–1.342) did not meet bioequivalence criteria due to high within-subject variability. There were no statistically significant effects of sequence, period, origin of glucosamine on pharmacokinetic parameters of glucosamine such as AUC0–8h, AUC0–∞, Cmax. Our findings suggest that biofermentation-derived glucosamine could be a sustainable source of raw materials for glucosamine supplement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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16 pages, 2806 KiB  
Article
Whey Derivatives and Galactooligosaccharides Stimulate the Wound Healing and the Function of Human Keratinocytes through the NF-kB and FOXO-1 Signaling Pathways
by Loredana Bergandi, Tania Flutto, Sabina Valentini, Laura Thedy, Rita Pramotton, Simona Zenato and Francesca Silvagno
Nutrients 2022, 14(14), 2888; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14142888 - 14 Jul 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1686
Abstract
Skin repair requires the activation of keratinocytes and is mediated by controlled inflammation and cell migration and proliferation, ending with the regeneration of well-differentiated cell layers. Whey derivatives contain galactooligosaccharides (GOS), which have potential beneficial effects on wound healing due to their activity [...] Read more.
Skin repair requires the activation of keratinocytes and is mediated by controlled inflammation and cell migration and proliferation, ending with the regeneration of well-differentiated cell layers. Whey derivatives contain galactooligosaccharides (GOS), which have potential beneficial effects on wound healing due to their activity as toll-like receptor ligands, although their direct nonprebiotic effects in the skin have not yet been described. In this study, we investigated the effects of different whey-derived products and purified GOS on a human keratinocyte cell line. We found that the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-8 (IL-8) was upregulated by nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) signaling triggered by whey derivatives and GOS and that wound healing was accelerated by promoting cell migration and the loss of E-cadherin in the absence of epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Interestingly, the treatments enhanced the mitochondrial function in association with the translocation of the Forkhead Box O1 (FOXO-1) transcription factor. Finally, we detected the increased expression of the differentiation markers induced by GOS and whey derivatives. All together, our results show that GOS-containing products can promote wound closure and skin health by direct activity on keratinocyte functions. Among the preparations tested, the fermented compound produced by autochthonous microorganisms was the most active in modulating keratinocyte activity, supporting the biological value of whey derivatives for health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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30 pages, 11809 KiB  
Article
Thymoquinone Alterations of the Apoptotic Gene Expressions and Cell Cycle Arrest in Genetically Distinct Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
by Getinet M. Adinew, Samia S. Messeha, Equar Taka, Ramesh B. Badisa, Lovely M. Antonie and Karam F. A. Soliman
Nutrients 2022, 14(10), 2120; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14102120 - 19 May 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2881
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women worldwide, and it is one of the leading causes of cancer death in women. triple-negative breast Cancer (TNBC), a subtype of BC, is typically associated with the highest pathogenic grade and incidence in [...] Read more.
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women worldwide, and it is one of the leading causes of cancer death in women. triple-negative breast Cancer (TNBC), a subtype of BC, is typically associated with the highest pathogenic grade and incidence in premenopausal and young African American (AA) women. Chemotherapy, the most common treatment for TNBC today, can lead to acquired resistance and ineffective treatment. Therefore, novel therapeutic approaches are needed to combat medication resistance and ineffectiveness in TNBC patients. Thymoquinone (TQ) is shown to have a cytotoxic effect on human cancer cells in vitro. However, TQ’s mode of action and precise mechanism in TNBC disease in vitro have not been adequately investigated. Therefore, TQ’s effects on the genetically different MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell lines were assessed. The data obtained show that TQ displayed cytotoxic effects on MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner after 24 h, with IC50 values of 25.37 µM and 27.39 µM, respectively. Moreover, MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells in a scratched wound-healing assay displayed poor wound closure, inhibiting invasion and migration via cell cycle blocking after 24 h. TQ arrested the cell cycle phase in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. The three cell cycle stages in MDA-MB-468 cells were significantly affected at 15 and 20 µM for G0/G1 and S phases, as well as all TQ concentrations for G2/M phases. In MDA-MB-468 cells, there was a significant decrease in G0/G1 phases with a substantial increase in the S phase and G2/M phases. In contrast, MDA-MB-231 showed a significant effect only during the two cell cycle stages (S and G2/M), at concentrations of 15 and 20 µM for S phases and all TQ values for G2/M phases. The TQ effect on the apoptotic gene profiles indicated that TQ upregulated 15 apoptotic genes in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells, including caspases, GADD45A, TP53, DFFA, DIABLO, BNIP3, TRAF2/3, and TNFRSF10A. In MDA-MB-468 cells, 16 apoptotic genes were upregulated, including TNFRSF10A, TNF, TNFRSF11B, FADD TNFRSF10B, CASP2, and TRAF2, all of which are important for the apoptotic pathway andsuppress the expression of one anti-apoptotic gene, BIRC5, in MDA-MB-231 cells. Compared to MDA-MB-231 cells, elevated levels of TNF and their receptor proteins may contribute to their increased sensitivity to TQ-induced apoptosis. It was concluded from this study that TQ targets the MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells differently. Additionally, due to the aggressive nature of TNBC and the lack of specific therapies in chemoresistant TNBC, our findings related to the identified apoptotic gene profile may point to TQ as a potential agent for TNBC therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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24 pages, 1319 KiB  
Article
Perilla Fruit Oil-Fortified Soybean Milk Intake Alters Levels of Serum Triglycerides and Antioxidant Status, and Influences Phagocytotic Activity among Healthy Subjects: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
by Pimpisid Koonyosying, Winthana Kusirisin, Prit Kusirisin, Boonsong Kasempitakpong, Nipon Sermpanich, Bow Tinpovong, Nuttinee Salee, Kovit Pattanapanyasat, Somdet Srichairatanakool and Narisara Paradee
Nutrients 2022, 14(9), 1721; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14091721 - 21 Apr 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1959
Abstract
This study aimed to develop perilla fruit oil (PFO)-fortified soybean milk (PFO-SM), identify its sensory acceptability, and evaluate its health outcomes. Our PFO-SM product was pasteurized, analyzed for its nutritional value, and had its acceptability assessed by an experienced and trained descriptive panel [...] Read more.
This study aimed to develop perilla fruit oil (PFO)-fortified soybean milk (PFO-SM), identify its sensory acceptability, and evaluate its health outcomes. Our PFO-SM product was pasteurized, analyzed for its nutritional value, and had its acceptability assessed by an experienced and trained descriptive panel (n = 100) based on a relevant set of sensory attributes. A randomized clinical trial was conducted involving healthy subjects who were assigned to consume deionized water (DI), SM, PFO-SM, or black sesame-soybean milk (BS-SM) (n = 48 each, 180 mL/serving) daily for 30 d. Accordingly, health indices and analyzed blood biomarkers were recorded. Consequently, 1% PFO-SM (1.26 mg ALA rich) was generally associated with very high scores for overall acceptance, color, flavor, odor, taste, texture, and sweetness. We observed that PFO-SM lowered levels of serum triglycerides and erythrocyte reactive oxygen species, but increased phagocytosis and serum antioxidant activity (p < 0.05) when compared to SM and BS-SM. These findings indicate that PFO supplementation in soybean milk could enhance radical-scavenging and phagocytotic abilities in the blood of healthy persons. In this regard, it was determined to be more efficient than black sesame supplementation. We are now better positioned to recommend the consumption of PFO-SM drink for the reduction of many chronic diseases. Randomized clinical trial registration (Reference number 41389) by IRSCTN Registry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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18 pages, 5753 KiB  
Article
Geraniol Ameliorates Doxorubicin-Mediated Kidney Injury through Alteration of Antioxidant Status, Inflammation, and Apoptosis: Potential Roles of NF-κB and Nrf2/Ho-1
by Abdullah F. AlAsmari, Nemat Ali, Metab Alharbi, Faleh Alqahtani, Fawaz Alasmari, Daad Almoqbel, Mohammed AlSwayyed, Abdulrahman Alshammari, Mohammed M. Alanazi, Ali Alhoshani and Naif O. Al-Harbi
Nutrients 2022, 14(8), 1620; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14081620 - 13 Apr 2022
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2419
Abstract
Doxorubicin-mediated kidney impairment is a serious problem in cancer treatment. Accordingly, this work investigated the ability of geraniol to modulate doxorubicin-induced kidney damage using a rat model. Rats were randomly assigned to four groups: control, doxorubicin (20 mg/kg, intraperitoneal, i.p.), doxorubicin plus 100 [...] Read more.
Doxorubicin-mediated kidney impairment is a serious problem in cancer treatment. Accordingly, this work investigated the ability of geraniol to modulate doxorubicin-induced kidney damage using a rat model. Rats were randomly assigned to four groups: control, doxorubicin (20 mg/kg, intraperitoneal, i.p.), doxorubicin plus 100 mg/kg of geraniol, and doxorubicin plus 200 mg/kg of geraniol. A single doxorubicin injection triggered kidney impairment, as evidenced by the altered serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and albumin values; it also caused histological changes in the kidney architecture. Additionally, doxorubicin enhanced lipid peroxidation while lowering reduced glutathione, catalase activity, and the expression of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. Interestingly, pre-treatment with geraniol rescued doxorubicin-induced alterations in kidney antioxidant parameters, enzymatic activity, and the expression of inflammatory and apoptosis-mediating gene and proteins. Moreover, prophylactic treatment with geraniol preserved most kidney histological characteristics in a dose-dependent manner. These findings support that geraniol could protect against doxorubicin-mediated kidney dysfunction. However, further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms of geraniol’s protective effects against doxorubicin-mediated kidney dysfunction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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14 pages, 2927 KiB  
Article
Korean Red Ginseng Extract Inhibits IL-8 Expression via Nrf2 Activation in Helicobacter pylori-Infected Gastric Epithelial Cells
by Hae Sou Kim, Joo Weon Lim and Hyeyoung Kim
Nutrients 2022, 14(5), 1044; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14051044 - 28 Feb 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3143
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) causes gastric diseases by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and interleukin (IL)-8 expression in gastric epithelial cells. ROS and inflammatory responses are regulated by the activation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the expression of [...] Read more.
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) causes gastric diseases by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and interleukin (IL)-8 expression in gastric epithelial cells. ROS and inflammatory responses are regulated by the activation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the expression of Nrf2 target genes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). We previously demonstrated that Korean red ginseng extract (RGE) decreases H. pylori-induced increases in ROS and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 in gastric epithelial cells. We determined whether RGE suppresses the expression of IL-8 via Nrf2 activation and the expression of SOD and HO-1 in H. pylori-infected gastric epithelial AGS cells. H. pylori-infected cells were treated with RGE with or without ML385, an Nrf2 inhibitor, or zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPP), a HO-1 inhibitor. Levels of ROS and IL-8 expression; abundance of Keap1, HO-1, and SOD; levels of total, nuclear, and phosphorylated Nrf2; indices of mitochondrial dysfunction (reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP level); and SOD activity were determined. As a result, RGE disturbed Nrf2–Keap1 interactions and increased nuclear Nrf2 levels in uninfected cells. H. pylori infection decreased the protein levels of SOD-1 and HO-1, as well as SOD activity, which was reversed by RGE treatment. RGE reduced H. pylori-induced increases in ROS and IL-8 levels as well as mitochondrial dysfunction. ML385 or ZnPP reversed the inhibitory effect of RGE on the alterations caused by H. pylori. In conclusion, RGE suppressed IL-8 expression and mitochondrial dysfunction via Nrf2 activation, induction of SOD-1 and HO-1, and reduction of ROS in H. pylori-infected cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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11 pages, 40872 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Effects of Korean Red Ginseng Extract and the Conventional Systemic Therapeutics of Atopic Dermatitis in a Murine Model
by Yu Ri Woo, Seok Hoon Moon, Jeesuk Yu and Sang Hyun Cho
Nutrients 2022, 14(1), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14010133 - 28 Dec 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2511
Abstract
The synergistic effects of Korean Red ginseng (KRG, Panax ginseng C.A. Mey.) on conventional systemic therapeutics of atopic dermatitis (AD) have not been studied yet. To analyze the synergistic effects of KRG extract and the conventional systemic therapeutics of AD in TNCB-induced AD [...] Read more.
The synergistic effects of Korean Red ginseng (KRG, Panax ginseng C.A. Mey.) on conventional systemic therapeutics of atopic dermatitis (AD) have not been studied yet. To analyze the synergistic effects of KRG extract and the conventional systemic therapeutics of AD in TNCB-induced AD mouse model, we determined the change in modified scoring of index, the transepidermal water loss, the skin pathology, serum IgE, and the expression of various cytokines after combination treatment to the five-week-old NC/Nga female mice. The severity of AD was significantly decreased in the KRG + hydroxyzine (AH) group than AH group, and in the KRG + evening primrose oil (EPO) group than EPO group. A significant decrease in dermal inflammation was observed in the KRG + AH group than that in the AH group, and in the KRG + EPO group than that in the EPO group (p = 0.008), respectively. A decrease in CD1a expression was observed in the KRG + AH group when compared to the AH group (p = 0.008), and KRG + EPO group when compared to the EPO group. Compared to the CS group, the KRG + CS group showed a significant decrease in IL-17 expression. A combination of KRG and conventional systemic therapeutics can safely and effectively manage the AD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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Review

Jump to: Research

17 pages, 1568 KiB  
Review
A Scoping Review on the Effects of Carotenoids and Flavonoids on Skin Damage Due to Ultraviolet Radiation
by Kirushmita Anbualakan, Nur Qisti Tajul Urus, Suzana Makpol, Adawiyah Jamil, Elvy Suhana Mohd Ramli, Suria Hayati Md Pauzi and Norliza Muhammad
Nutrients 2023, 15(1), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15010092 - 24 Dec 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3658
Abstract
Skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays in the sun causes premature ageing and may predispose to skin cancers. UV radiation generates excessive free radical species, resulting in oxidative stress, which is responsible for cellular and DNA damage. There is growing evidence that phytonutrients [...] Read more.
Skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays in the sun causes premature ageing and may predispose to skin cancers. UV radiation generates excessive free radical species, resulting in oxidative stress, which is responsible for cellular and DNA damage. There is growing evidence that phytonutrients such as flavonoids and carotenoids may impede oxidative stress and prevent photodamage. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to explore the effects of certain phytonutrients in preventing skin photodamage. We searched the electronic Medline (Ovid) and Pubmed databases for relevant studies published between 2002 and 2022. The main inclusion criteria were articles written in English, and studies reporting the effects of phytonutrient-containing plants of interest on the skin or skin cells exposed to UV radiation. We focused on tea, blueberries, lemon, carrot, tomato, and grapes, which are rich in flavonoids and/or carotenoids. Out of 434 articles retrieved, 40 were identified as potentially relevant. Based on our inclusion criteria, nine articles were included in the review. The review comprises three combined in vitro and animal studies, four human studies, one in vitro research, and one mixed in vitro and human study. All the studies reported positive effects of flavonoids and carotenoid-containing plant extract on UV-induced skin damage. This evidence-based review highlights the potential use of flavonoids and carotenoids found in plants in preventing the deleterious effects of UV radiation on the skin. These compounds may have a role in clinical and aesthetic applications for the prevention and treatment of sunburn and photoaging, and may potentially be used against UV-related skin cancers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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18 pages, 4438 KiB  
Review
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) and Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors and Outcomes: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies
by Lucas Fornari Laurindo, Sandra Maria Barbalho, Alexis R. Marquess, Annik Ianara de Souza Grecco, Ricardo de Alvares Goulart, Ricardo José Tofano and Anupam Bishayee
Nutrients 2022, 14(8), 1665; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14081665 - 16 Apr 2022
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6862
Abstract
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) can be considered a multipurpose medicinal and dietary plant due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. Pomegranate can be used to prevent or treat metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk factors. Although previously published reviews addressed the effects of pomegranate [...] Read more.
Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) can be considered a multipurpose medicinal and dietary plant due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. Pomegranate can be used to prevent or treat metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk factors. Although previously published reviews addressed the effects of pomegranate on different diseases, there is no systematic review that exclusively focuses on clinical trials related to all MetS-related risk factors. In view of this limitation, the objective of this up-to-date, comprehensive, and systematic review is to critically evaluate the potential of pomegranate (P. granatum) on various MetS risk factors on the basis of clinical studies. PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, COCHRANE, and Clinical Trials.gov databases were searched on 15 October 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed, and the bias risk evaluation was performed according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We identified 5683 studies in the databases. After removing the duplicates, 3418 studies remained. Of these, 147 studies met the eligibility criteria, and finally, only 20 were included in the qualitative analysis. The included studies suggest that pomegranate can be beneficial to reduce body weight, blood pressure, glycemia, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Moreover, it can augment high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and improve insulin resistance. Although relevant effects were observed, additional well-designed clinical trials are needed to determine the correct formulations and doses to be used to prevent or treat MetS components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Natural and Synthetic Products in Human Health and Diseases: Basic, Preclinical and Clinical Studies)
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