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Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease

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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 December 2024) | Viewed by 25135

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Dr. Nunzio Antonio Cacciola

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Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino, 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
Interests: phytotherapy; pharmacology; natural products; colorectal cancer
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Francesca Borrelli

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Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via D. Montesano, 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
Interests: phytotherapy; natural products; colorectal cancer; inflammatory bowel diseases

Dr. Paola De Cicco

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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

There is strong scientific evidence that regular consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and age-related functional decline. Plant foods contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, carotenoids, lipids, vitamins, minerals, and fiber that have been shown to be responsible for biological activities. For some bioactive compounds, modern methods of cellular and molecular biology have made it possible to understand the mechanisms of action that underline their effects.

This Special Issue aims to provide a contemporary understanding of dietary plant extracts and their bioactive compounds in human nutrition and health, particularly the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of these bioactive dietary constituents. We invite the submission of short communications, original articles, and reviews that highlight the history and advance our current knowledge of bioactive dietary constituents in human health.

Dr. Nunzio Antonio Cacciola
Prof. Dr. Francesca Borrelli
Dr. Paola De Cicco
Guest Editors

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Keywords

dietary phytochemicals
bioactive constituents
health effects
epidemiology
cancer
neurodegeneration
chronic inflammation

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 8973 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Broccoli Sprout Extract Suppresses Particulate-Matter-Induced Matrix-Metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and Cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 Expression in Human Keratinocytes by Direct Targeting of p38 MAP Kinase

by Jaehyeok Yun and Jong-Eun Kim

Nutrients 2024, 16(23), 4156; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16234156 - 30 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1165

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Particulate matter (PM) is an environmental pollutant that negatively affects human health, particularly skin health. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of broccoli sprout extract (BSE) on PM-induced skin aging and inflammation in human keratinocytes. Methods: HaCaT keratinocytes were pretreated with BSE before exposure to PM. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay. The expression of skin aging and inflammation markers (MMP-1, COX-2, IL-6) was measured using Western blot, ELISA, and qRT-PCR. Reactive oxygen species levels were determined using the DCF-DA assay. Kinase assays and pull-down assays were conducted to investigate the interaction between BSE and p38α MAPK. Results: Our findings demonstrate that BSE effectively suppressed the expression of MMP-1, COX-2, and IL-6—critical skin aging and inflammation markers—by inhibiting p38 MAPK activity. BSE binds directly to p38α without competing with ATP, thereby selectively inhibiting its activity and downstream signaling pathways, including MSK1/2, AP-1, and NF-κB. Conclusions: These results suggest that BSE is a potential functional ingredient in skincare products to mitigate PM-induced skin damage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease)

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15 pages, 1657 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Citrus reticulata Olive Oil: Production and Nutraceutical Effects on the Cardiovascular System in an In Vivo Rat Model of Metabolic Disorder

by Jacopo Spezzini, Valerio Ciccone, Monica Macaluso, Ylenia Pieracci, Guido Flamini, Sandra Donnini, Vincenzo Calderone, Lara Testai and Angela Zinnai

Nutrients 2024, 16(18), 3172; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16183172 - 19 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1335

Abstract

Recently, there has been significant exploration into the utilization of food by-products as natural reservoirs of bioactive substances, particularly in the creation of functional foods naturally enriched with antioxidants. Citrus peels represent a viable option for formulating enhanced olive oils that contribute to a healthier diet, due to their bioactive compound content. This study aimed to (i) ascertain the compositional characteristics of Citrus reticulata olive oil (CrOO) and (ii) assess its nutraceutical properties in rats with metabolic disorder induced by 3 weeks of feeding with a high-fat diet (HFD). The results showed a peculiar phytochemical composition, thanks to the contribution of citrus peels, which are excellent bio-products. In addition, it demonstrated HFD-induced weight gain (18 ± 2% for HFD vs. 13 ± 0.9% for CrOO) and showed protective effects on fasting blood glucose levels (90.2 ± 3.8 mg/dL for HFD vs. 72.3 ± 2.6 for CrOO). Furthermore, a reduction in cardiovascular risk (total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol = 5.0 ± 0.3 for HFD vs. 3.8 ± 0.3 for CrOO) and an improvement in myocardial tissue function were observed, as well as a significant reduction in inflammatory mediators such as iNOS, COX-2, and mPGES-1 in aortic vessel tissues, thus preserving endothelial function at the vascular level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease)

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14 pages, 1067 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluation of the Caffeine Content in Servings of Popular Coffees in Terms of Its Safe Intake—Can We Drink 3–5 Cups of Coffee per Day, as Experts Advise?

by Regina Ewa Wierzejska and Iwona Gielecińska

Nutrients 2024, 16(15), 2385; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16152385 - 23 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 7199

Abstract

The spreading knowledge of the health benefits of coffee and the development of gastronomy with a wide range of coffees prompt an evaluation of their caffeine content in terms of safe intake. The study analyzed the caffeine content of popular coffees in comparison with recommendations for a safe single dose (200 mg) and daily caffeine intake (400 mg), and guidelines for drinking 3–5 cups of coffee per day. A total of 299 coffee samples from franchise shops and homemade coffees were tested. The “takeaway” coffees had a three times higher mean caffeine content (p < 0.005) compared to homemade coffees. Americano coffee was the “strongest” (143 mg caffeine/serving on average), while coffee prepared by pouring hot water over one teaspoon of ground coffee was the “lightest” (23 mg caffeine/serving on average) (p < 0.05). Over 200 mg of caffeine per serving was found in 4% of samples. Over 400 mg of caffeine would be consumed by people drinking “on the go” 4–5 servings of many types of coffee, except espresso. In this respect, homemade coffees are safer. Therefore, recommendations on drinking coffee should be more practical, and indicate not only the number of cups, but also the “strength” of various types of coffee, in order to avoid the regular intake of high amounts of caffeine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease)

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12 pages, 2791 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ageratum conyzoides Extract Ameliorates Testosterone-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia via Inhibiting Proliferation, Inflammation of Prostates, and Induction of Apoptosis in Rats

by Eun-Hye Chung, Jeong-Won Kim, Jin-Hwa Kim, Ji-Soo Jeong, Jong-Hwan Lim, So-Young Boo, Je-Won Ko and Tae-Won Kim

Nutrients 2024, 16(14), 2267; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16142267 - 14 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2141

Abstract

Ageratum conyzoides, an annual herbaceous plant that inhabits tropical and subtropical regions, has been traditionally used in Asia, Africa, and South America for phytotherapy to treat infectious and inflammatory conditions. However, the pharmacological effects of standardized ethanolic extract of Ageratum conyzoides (ACE) on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) remain unexplored. The objective of this research is to examine the potential physiological impacts of ACE, a traditionally utilized remedy for inflammatory ailments, in a rat model with BPH induced by testosterone propionate (TP). Rats were subcutaneously administered TP (3 mg/kg) to induce BPH and concurrently orally administered ACE (20, 50, and 100 mg/kg) daily for 42 days. ACE markedly improved BPH characteristics, including prostate weight, prostate index, and epithelial thickness, while also suppressing androgens and related hormones. The findings were supported by a decrease in androgen receptor and downstream signals associated with BPH in the prostate tissues of the ACE groups. Furthermore, increased apoptotic signals were observed in the prostate tissue of the ACE groups, along with heightened detection of the apoptotic nucleus compared to the BPH alone group. These changes seen in the group that received finasteride were similar to those observed in this group. These findings suggest that ACE shows promise as an alternative phytotherapeutic agent for treating BPH. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease)

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12 pages, 990 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Arthrospira Platensis in Preventing and Treating High-Fat Diet-Induced Hypercholesterolemia in Adult Rats

by Nunzio Antonio Cacciola, Paola De Cicco, Maja Milanović, Ivan Milovanović, Aleksandra Mišan, Danijela Kojić, Jelica Simeunović, Dajana Blagojević, Tamara Popović, Aleksandra Arsić, Vladimir Pilija, Anamarija Mandić, Francesca Borrelli and Nataša Milić

Nutrients 2024, 16(12), 1827; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16121827 - 11 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1522

Abstract

Hyperlipidaemia is a recognised risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In this study, the antihyperlipidaemic properties of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis, strain S2 from Serbia) were tested in adult Wistar rats before and after induction of hypercholesterolaemia by a high-fat diet (HFD) to compare the preventive with the curative effect. Total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) levels were measured in the blood samples. The chemical composition (lipids, proteins and cholesterol) and the content of bile acids in the faeces of the animals were also analysed. Feeding rats with an atherogenic diet for 10 weeks led to the successful development of hyperlipidaemia, as serum TC and LDL-C levels as well as lipids, cholesterol and bile acids in the animals’ faeces were significantly increased. Pre- and post-treatment with spirulina led to a reduction in serum LDL, TC and ALT levels. Administration of spirulina resulted in both a significant increase in primary bile acids excretion and a decrease in bile acids metabolism, with pre-treatment being more effective than post-treatment in some cases. These results suggest that increased excretion of bile acids as well as an effect on the gut microbiota may be the mechanism responsible for the anti-hyperlipidaemic activity of the tested spirulina strain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease)

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21 pages, 5668 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Oat Peptides Alleviate Dextran Sulfate Sodium Salt-Induced Colitis by Maintaining the Intestinal Barrier and Modulating the Keap1-Nrf2 Axis

by Zhong-Hao Ji, Wen-Yin Xie, Pei-Sen Zhao, Hong-Yu Wu, Wen-Zhi Ren, Jin-Ping Hu, Wei Gao and Bao Yuan

Nutrients 2023, 15(24), 5055; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15245055 - 9 Dec 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2151

Abstract

The prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is progressively rising each year, emphasizing the significance of implementing rational dietary interventions for disease prevention. Oats, being a staple agricultural product, are abundant in protein content. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of oat peptides (OPs) in a mouse model of acute colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS) and a Caco-2 cell model. The findings demonstrated that intervention with OPs effectively mitigated the symptoms associated with DSS-induced colitis. The physicochemical characterization analysis demonstrated that the molecular weight of the OPs was predominantly below 5 kDa, with a predominant composition of 266 peptides. This study provides further evidence of the regulatory impact of OPs on the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling axis and elucidates the potential role of WGVGVRAERDA as the primary bioactive peptide responsible for the functional effects of OPs. Ultimately, the results of this investigation demonstrate that OPs effectively mitigate DSS-induced colitis by preserving the integrity of the intestinal barrier and modulating the Keap1-Nrf2 axis. Consequently, these findings establish a theoretical foundation for the utilization of OPs as dietary supplements to prevent the onset of IBD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease)

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Review

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15 pages, 292 KiB

Open AccessReview

Photoprotective Effects of Phytochemicals on Blue Light-Induced Retinal Damage: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives

by Wan-Ju Yeh, Cin Yan and Chi-Hao Wu

Nutrients 2025, 17(2), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17020331 - 17 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1568

Abstract

The widespread use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) has increased blue light (BL) exposure, raising concerns about its potential adverse effects on ocular health. Prolonged exposure to BL has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various retinal disorders, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), primarily through mechanisms involving oxidative stress and inflammation mediated by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This review synthesizes current evidence on the photoprotective properties of dietary bioactive compounds, (e.g., anthocyanins, curcumin, quercetin, myricetin, and resveratrol), with a focus on their potential to mitigate BL-induced retinal damage. Accumulating research suggests that dietary antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, may offer photoprotective benefits. These phytochemicals act by neutralizing ROS and enhancing the retina’s endogenous antioxidant capacity. Based on these findings, this review advocates for a food-first approach in future investigations, emphasizing the development of evidence-based dietary recommendations to bolster retinal health and mitigate the risk of BL-related ocular diseases. Considering the current lack of empirical clinical studies examining the impact of BL on human ocular health, future research in the field of BL hazard should prioritize two key approaches: conducting large-scale epidemiological dietary surveys and implementing clinical trials on functional ingredients that have demonstrated beneficial effects against photodamage in preclinical animal studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease)

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22 pages, 1348 KiB

Open AccessReview

Unveiling the Nutritional Veil of Sulforaphane: With a Major Focus on Glucose Homeostasis Modulation

by Yanan Wang, Xiaoyun He, Nan Cheng and Kunlun Huang

Nutrients 2024, 16(12), 1877; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16121877 - 14 Jun 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3736

Abstract

Abnormal glucose homeostasis is associated with metabolic syndromes including cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and obesity, highlighting the significance of maintaining a balanced glucose level for optimal biological function. This highlights the importance of maintaining normal glucose levels for proper biological functioning. Sulforaphane (SFN), the primary bioactive compound in broccoli from the Cruciferae or Brassicaceae family, has been shown to enhance glucose homeostasis effectively while exhibiting low cytotoxicity. This paper assesses the impact of SFN on glucose homeostasis in vitro, in vivo, and human trials, as well as the molecular mechanisms that drive its regulatory effects. New strategies have been proposed to enhance the bioavailability and targeted delivery of SFN in order to overcome inherent instability. The manuscript also covers the safety evaluations of SFN that have been documented for its production and utilization. Hence, a deeper understanding of the favorable influence and mechanism of SFN on glucose homeostasis, coupled with the fact that SFN is abundant in the human daily diet, may ultimately offer theoretical evidence to support its potential use in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease)

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14 pages, 309 KiB

Open AccessReview

Anthocyanins and Type 2 Diabetes: An Update of Human Study and Clinical Trial

by Aleksandra Kozłowska and Aneta Nitsch-Osuch

Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1674; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111674 - 29 May 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3347

Abstract

Anthocyanins are phenolic compounds occurring in fruits and vegetables. Evidence from pre-clinical studies indicates their role in glucose level regulation, gut microbiota improvement, and inflammation reduction under diabetic conditions. Therefore, incorporating these research advancements into clinical practice would significantly improve the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes. This narrative review provides a concise overview of 18 findings from recent clinical research published over the last 5 years that investigate the therapeutic effects of dietary anthocyanins on diabetes. Anthocyanin supplementation has been shown to have a regulatory effect on fasting blood glucose levels, glycated hemoglobin, and other diabetes-related indicators. Furthermore, increased anthocyanin dosages had more favorable implications for diabetes treatment. This review provides evidence that an anthocyanin-rich diet can improve diabetes outcomes, especially in at-risk groups. Future research should focus on optimal intervention duration, consider multiple clinical biomarkers, and analyze anthocyanin effects among well-controlled versus poorly controlled groups of patients with diabetes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Phytochemicals: Implications for Health and Disease)

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