Nutrients

Research

20 pages, 3405 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Characterization of Neuroprotective Properties of Thaumatin-like Protein 1a from Annurca Apple Flesh Polyphenol Extract

by Antonio D’Errico, Rosarita Nasso, Antimo Di Maro, Nicola Landi, Angela Chambery, Rosita Russo, Stefania D’Angelo, Mariorosario Masullo and Rosaria Arcone

Nutrients 2024, 16(2), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16020307 - 19 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1882

Abstract

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are multifactorial neurodegenerative disorders that are mostly treated with drugs inhibiting key enzymes of cholinergic and aminergic neurotransmission, such as acetyl and butyryl cholinesterase (AChE, BuChE) or monoamine oxidases (MAO)-A/B, and of Aβ [...] Read more.

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are multifactorial neurodegenerative disorders that are mostly treated with drugs inhibiting key enzymes of cholinergic and aminergic neurotransmission, such as acetyl and butyryl cholinesterase (AChE, BuChE) or monoamine oxidases (MAO)-A/B, and of Aβ _1–40 aggregation. Diet plant components with multitarget functions are promising compounds in the prevention of AD and PD. Our aim was to identify neuroprotective compounds from Annurca apple polyphenol extract (AFPE). Methods: AFPE was fractionated by gel filtration, and the eluted peaks were subjected to chemical analyses (i.e., RP-HPLC and mass spectrometry), determination of inhibitory enzyme activity and cell effects by MTT, and morphology assays. Results: In AFPE, we identified thaumatin-like protein 1a, belonging to the pathogenesis-related protein (PR) family. This protein showed the best inhibitory activity on AChE, MAO-A (IC₅₀ = 5.53 µM and 1.71 µM, respectively), and Aβ_1–40 fibril aggregation (IC₅₀ = 9.16 µM), compared to AFPE and other polyphenol-containing fractions. Among the latter, Peak 4 reverted Aβ fibril formation (IC₅₀ = 104.87 µM). Moreover, thaumatin-like protein 1a protected AGS and MKN-28 cells from serum-deprivation-induced stress conditions. Conclusions: We showed that AFPE exerted neuroprotective functions not only through its polyphenols but also through thaumatin-like protein 1a, which acted like a multitarget molecule. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Effect of Natural Compounds on Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease)

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22 pages, 1612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Regular Consumption of Cocoa and Red Berries as a Strategy to Improve Cardiovascular Biomarkers via Modulation of Microbiota Metabolism in Healthy Aging Adults

by Joaquín García-Cordero, Alba Martinez, Carlos Blanco-Valverde, Alicia Pino, Verónica Puertas-Martín, Ricardo San Román and Sonia de Pascual-Teresa

Nutrients 2023, 15(10), 2299; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15102299 - 13 May 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4394

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of cocoa flavanols and red berry anthocyanins on cardiovascular biomarkers, such as homocysteine, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), nitric oxide (NO), flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), blood pressure and lipid profile. Additionally, we aimed to ascertain [...] Read more.

The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of cocoa flavanols and red berry anthocyanins on cardiovascular biomarkers, such as homocysteine, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), nitric oxide (NO), flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), blood pressure and lipid profile. Additionally, we aimed to ascertain their possible interactions with microbiota related metabolites, such as secondary bile acids (SBA), short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). A randomized, parallel-group study, single-blind for the research team, was performed on 60 healthy volunteers between the ages of 45 and 85, who consumed 2.5 g/day of cocoa powder (9.59 mg/day of total flavanols), 5 g/day of a red berry mixture (13.9 mg/day of total anthocyanins) or 7.5 g/day of a combination of both for 12 weeks. The group that had consumed cocoa showed a significant reduction in TMAO (p = 0.03) and uric acid (p = 0.01) levels in serum, accompanied by an increase in FMD values (p = 0.03) and total polyphenols. corrected by creatinine (p = 0.03) after the intervention. These latter values negatively correlated with the TMAO concentration (R = −0.57, p = 0.02). Additionally, we observed an increase in carbohydrate fermentation in the groups that had consumed cocoa (p = 0.04) and red berries (p = 0.04) between the beginning and the end of the intervention. This increase in carbohydrate fermentation was correlated with lower levels of TC/HDL ratio (p = 0.01), systolic (p = 0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.01). In conclusion, our study showed a positive modulation of microbiota metabolism after a regular intake of cocoa flavanols and red berry anthocyanins that led to an improvement in cardiovascular function, especially in the group that consumed cocoa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Effect of Natural Compounds on Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease)

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20 pages, 3275 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phenolic Extract from Extra Virgin Olive Oil Induces Different Anti-Proliferative Pathways in Human Bladder Cancer Cell Lines

by Carmela Spagnuolo, Stefania Moccia, Idolo Tedesco, Giuseppina Crescente, Maria Grazia Volpe, Maria Russo and Gian Luigi Russo

Nutrients 2023, 15(1), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15010182 - 30 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3057

Abstract

Regular consumption of olive oil is associated with protection against chronic-degenerative diseases, such as cancer. Epidemiological evidence indicates an inverse association between olive oil intake and bladder cancer risk. Bladder cancer is among the most common forms of cancer; in particular, the transitional [...] Read more.

Regular consumption of olive oil is associated with protection against chronic-degenerative diseases, such as cancer. Epidemiological evidence indicates an inverse association between olive oil intake and bladder cancer risk. Bladder cancer is among the most common forms of cancer; in particular, the transitional cell carcinoma histotype shows aggressive behavior. We investigated the anti-proliferative effects of a phenolic extract prepared from an extra virgin olive oil (EVOOE) on two human bladder cancer cell lines, namely RT112 and J82, representing the progression from low-grade to high-grade tumors, respectively. In RT112, the EVOOE reduced cell viability (IC50 = 240 μg/mL at 24 h), triggering a non-protective form of autophagy, evidenced by the autophagosome formation and the increase in LC-3 lipidation. In J82, EVOOE induced a strong decrease in cell viability after 24 h of treatment (IC50 = 65.8 μg/mL) through rapid and massive apoptosis, assessed by Annexin V positivity and caspase-3 and -9 activation. Moreover, in both bladder cancer cell lines, EVOOE reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species, but this antioxidant effect was not correlated with its anti-proliferative outcomes. Data obtained suggest that the mixture of phenolic compounds in extra virgin olive oil activates different anti-proliferative pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Effect of Natural Compounds on Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease)

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20 pages, 5652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Milk Exosomal miR-27b Worsen Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Mediated Colorectal Cancer Cell Death

by Elisa Martino, Anna Balestrieri, Luigi Mele, Celestino Sardu, Raffaele Marfella, Nunzia D’Onofrio, Giuseppe Campanile and Maria Luisa Balestrieri

Nutrients 2022, 14(23), 5081; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14235081 - 29 Nov 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3713

Abstract

The relationship between dietary constituents and the onset and prevention of colorectal cancer (CRC) is constantly growing. Recently, the antineoplastic profiles of milk and whey from Mediterranean buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) have been brought to attention. However, to date, compared to cow [...] Read more.

The relationship between dietary constituents and the onset and prevention of colorectal cancer (CRC) is constantly growing. Recently, the antineoplastic profiles of milk and whey from Mediterranean buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) have been brought to attention. However, to date, compared to cow milk, the potential health benefits of buffalo milk exosome-miRNA are still little explored. In the present study, we profiled the exosomal miRNA from buffalo milk and investigated the possible anticancer effects in CRC cells, HCT116, and HT-29. Results indicated that buffalo milk exosomes contained higher levels of miR-27b, miR-15b, and miR-148a compared to cow milk. Mimic miR-27b transfection in CRC cells induced higher cytotoxic effects (p < 0.01) compared to miR-15b and miR-148a. Moreover, miR-27b overexpression in HCT116 and HT-29 cells (miR-27b⁺) induced apoptosis, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), and lysosome accumulation. Exposure of miR-27b⁺ cells to the bioactive 3kDa milk extract aggravated the apoptosis rate (p < 0.01), mitochondrial stress (p < 0.01), and advanced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress (p < 0.01), via PERK/IRE1/XBP1 and CHOP protein modulation (p < 0.01). Moreover, GSK2606414, the ER-inhibitor (ER-i), decreased the apoptosis phenomenon and XBP1 and CHOP modulation in miR-27b⁺ cells treated with milk (p < 0.01 vs. miR-27b⁺+Milk), suggesting the ER stress as a cell-death-aggravating mechanism. These results support the in vitro anticancer activity of 3kDa milk extract and unveil the contribution of miR-27b in the promising beneficial effect of buffalo milk in CRC prevention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Effect of Natural Compounds on Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease)

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Graphical abstract

16 pages, 2912 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Geraniol Isolated from Lemon Grass on Ox-LDL-Stimulated Endothelial Cells by Upregulation of Heme Oxygenase-1 via PI3K/Akt and Nrf-2 Signaling Pathways

by Rebai Ben Ammar, Maged Elsayed Mohamed, Manal Alfwuaires, Sarah Abdulaziz Alamer, Mohammad Bani Ismail, Vishnu Priya Veeraraghavan, Ashok Kumar Sekar, Riadh Ksouri and Peramaiyan Rajendran

Nutrients 2022, 14(22), 4817; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14224817 - 14 Nov 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2857 | Correction

Abstract

Among the world’s leading causes of cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the arteries. Both vasodilation and vasoconstriction, low levels of nitric oxide and high levels of reactive oxygen species and pro-inflammatory factors characterize dysfunctional blood vessels. Hypertension, and [...] Read more.

Among the world’s leading causes of cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the arteries. Both vasodilation and vasoconstriction, low levels of nitric oxide and high levels of reactive oxygen species and pro-inflammatory factors characterize dysfunctional blood vessels. Hypertension, and atherosclerosis, all start with this dysfunction. Geraniol, a compound of acyclic monoterpene alcohol, found in plants such as geranium, lemongrass and rose, is a primary constituent of essential oils. It shows a variety of pharmacological properties. This study aimed to investigate the impact of geraniol on Ox-LDL-induced stress and inflammation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In this study, HUVECs were treated with Ox-LDL or geraniol at different dose concentrations. MTT assay, Western blot, ROS generation and DNA fragmentation were used to evaluate geraniol’s effects on Ox-LDL-induced HUVECs inflammation. The results show that geraniol pre-incubation ameliorates Ox-LDL-mediated HUVECs cytotoxicity and DNA fragmentation. The geraniol inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by Ox-LDL, including TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β. In Ox-LDL-stimulated HUVECs, geraniol suppresses the nuclear translocation and activity of NF-ᴋB as well as phosphorylation of IkBα. Moreover, geraniol activated the PI3K/AKT/NRF2 pathway in HUVECs, resulting in an increase in the expression of HO-1. Taking our data together, we can conclude that, in HUVECs, geraniol inhibits Ox-LDL-induced inflammation and oxidative stress by targeting PI3/AKT/NRF2. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Effect of Natural Compounds on Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

19 pages, 2922 KiB

Open AccessReview

Research Progress on the Anti-Aging Potential of the Active Components of Ginseng

by Jingqian Su, Qiaofen Su, Shan Hu, Xinglin Ruan and Songying Ouyang

Nutrients 2023, 15(15), 3286; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15153286 - 25 Jul 2023

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4954

Abstract

Aging is a cellular state characterized by a permanent cessation of cell division and evasion of apoptosis. DNA damage, metabolic dysfunction, telomere damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction are the main factors associated with senescence. Aging increases β-galactosidase activity, enhances cell spreading, and induces Lamin [...] Read more.

Aging is a cellular state characterized by a permanent cessation of cell division and evasion of apoptosis. DNA damage, metabolic dysfunction, telomere damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction are the main factors associated with senescence. Aging increases β-galactosidase activity, enhances cell spreading, and induces Lamin B1 loss, which further accelerate the aging process. It is associated with a variety of diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, type 2 diabetes, and chronic inflammation. Ginseng is a traditional Chinese medicine with anti-aging effects. The active components of ginseng, including saponins, polysaccharides, and active peptides, have antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, neuroprotective, and age-delaying effects. DNA damage is the main factor associated with aging, and the mechanism through which the active ingredients of ginseng reduce DNA damage and delay aging has not been comprehensively described. This review focuses on the anti-aging mechanisms of the active ingredients of ginseng. Furthermore, it broadens the scope of ideas for further research on natural products and aging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Effect of Natural Compounds on Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease)

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23 pages, 1416 KiB

Open AccessReview

Anti-Angiogenic Effects of Natural Compounds in Diet-Associated Hepatic Inflammation

by Sara Novi, Vincenzo Vestuto, Pietro Campiglia, Nicola Tecce, Alessia Bertamino and Mario Felice Tecce

Nutrients 2023, 15(12), 2748; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15122748 - 14 Jun 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2952

Abstract

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are the most common causes of chronic liver disease and are increasingly emerging as a global health problem. Such disorders can lead to liver damage, resulting in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and [...] Read more.

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are the most common causes of chronic liver disease and are increasingly emerging as a global health problem. Such disorders can lead to liver damage, resulting in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the activation of infiltrating immune cells. These are some of the common features of ALD progression in ASH (alcoholic steatohepatitis) and NAFLD to NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis). Hepatic steatosis, followed by fibrosis, lead to a continuous progression accompanied by angiogenesis. This process creates hypoxia, which activates vascular factors, initiating pathological angiogenesis and further fibrosis. This forms a vicious cycle of ongoing damage and progression. This condition further exacerbates liver injury and may contribute to the development of comorbidities, such as metabolic syndrome as well as hepatocellular carcinoma. Increasing evidence suggests that anti-angiogenic therapy may have beneficial effects on these hepatic disorders and their exacerbation. Therefore, there is a great interest to deepen the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of natural anti-angiogenic products that could both prevent and control liver diseases. In this review, we focus on the role of major natural anti-angiogenic compounds against steatohepatitis and determine their potential therapeutic benefits in the treatment of liver inflammation caused by an imbalanced diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Effect of Natural Compounds on Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

3 pages, 1436 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Ben Ammar et al. Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Geraniol Isolated from Lemon Grass on Ox-LDL-Stimulated Endothelial Cells by Upregulation of Heme Oxygenase-1 via PI3K/Akt and Nrf-2 Signaling Pathways. Nutrients 2022, 14, 4817

by Rebai Ben Ammar, Maged Elsayed Mohamed, Manal Alfwuaires, Sarah Abdulaziz Alamer, Mohammad Bani Ismail, Vishnu Priya Veeraraghavan, Ashok Kumar Sekar, Riadh Ksouri and Peramaiyan Rajendran

Nutrients 2024, 16(5), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16050596 - 22 Feb 2024

Viewed by 924

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Effect of Natural Compounds on Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease)

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