Search Results (26)

Modern diets often provide insufficient health-promoting nutrients, prompting the development of enriched staple foods. This study investigated the impact of incorporating germinated spelt (Triticum spelta), naked oat (Avena nuda), and buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) seeds at 30% and 60% levels on the nutritional, technological, and sensory properties of wheat bread. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis verified the successful transfer of grain-specific bioactive compounds into the dough and bread matrix—benzoxazinoids (BOA, MBOA) from spelt, avenanthramides (AVN A, B, C) from oats, and flavonoids (e.g., rutin, vitexin, orientin) from buckwheat—emphasizing both free and bound metabolite fractions. Multigrain breads exhibited a complementary phytochemical profile. The antioxidant properties of the enriched breads were markedly enhanced, with germinated buckwheat providing the most pronounced increase. Analysis confirmed a significant increase in dietary fibre content proportional to the level of germinated grain addition, with almost double the content in 60% multigrain bread. Texture analysis indicated that the control crumb exhibited the greatest relative firming over 48 h during storage. Sensory evaluation showed that all of the enriched breads received high acceptability scores (>18/20). The incorporation of germinated seeds effectively enhances the nutritional value of bread, offering a promising strategy for developing health-promoting bakery products. Full article

Oat (Avena sativa L.) is increasingly recognized as a functional food due to its unique profile of antioxidant and health-promoting compounds. Beyond its traditional role, our study reveals that Mediterranean landraces and related species harbour exceptional variability in both their nutritional and bioactive traits, offering untapped potential for functional food development. We analysed 126 genotypes, including landraces and cultivars, from 18 Mediterranean and European countries, quantifying the β-glucans, arabinoxylans, phenolic acids (soluble and cell wall bound), avenanthramides (AVAs: A, B, and C), carbon (C), nitrogen (N), C:N ratio, and protein content. The protein levels ranged from 9.5% to 18.5%, with several genotypes exceeding 17%, far above typical oat averages. The β-glucans reached clinically relevant thresholds (>5%) in multiple accessions, while the arabinoxylans surpassed 2% in selected genotypes. The phenolic acids and avenanthramides showed striking diversity, with some landraces accumulating more than 2000 µg/g of total AVAs. The species and phenology strongly influenced the grain composition. Thus, A. strigosa exhibited the highest β-glucan and avenanthramide contents, while early-heading genotypes had doubled avenanthramide levels compared to late-heading ones. A correlation analysis revealed synergistic patterns among the β-glucans, avenanthramides, and proteins, suggesting multi-component interactions that could enhance antioxidant functionality. These findings underscore the strategic value of Mediterranean oat germplasm for breeding programs targeting high-protein, fibre-rich, and antioxidant-enhanced cultivars. By exploiting this diversity, oats could play a pivotal role in preventing chronic diseases and advancing sustainable, health-oriented food systems. Full article

Background/Objectives: Diet plays a critical role in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our previous work demonstrated that oats and oat bran alleviate dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice by modulating the gut microbiota. Methods: To further explore the underlying mechanisms, this study combined metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses to systematically compare the effects of whole oats and oat bran interventions on chronic colitis. Results: Untargeted metabolomics analysis identified three key metabolites, ursodeoxycholic acid, 3-(3-hydroxyphenyl)propionic acid, and avenanthramide C. The interactions between these metabolites and core proteins of the IL-17 signaling pathway (IL-17A, TRAF6, and ACT1) were evaluated via molecular docking. Transcriptomic and RT-qPCR analyses revealed that both oats and oat bran interventions modulated the IL-17, PI3K-Akt, and TNF signaling pathways. These treatments significantly upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins (claudin-1, claudin-5, occludin) while reducing levels of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Molecular docking results demonstrated stable binding between the three metabolites and target proteins primarily through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions, with ursodeoxycholic acid exhibiting the highest binding affinity. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings suggest that oats and oat bran may alleviate chronic colitis by modulating the IL-17 signaling pathway and enhancing intestinal barrier function. Full article

Background/Objectives: Oats and oat bran are rich in polyphenols and soluble fiber, which are metabolized by gut microbiota into bioactive compounds. Previous studies identified ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), 3-(3-hydroxyphenyl)propionic acid (3-HPP), and avenanthramide C (AVC) as key microbial metabolites with protective effects against colitis. Methods: This study aimed to elucidate their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and underlying mechanisms using LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages and AAPH-induced oxidative stress in zebrafish embryos. All three metabolites significantly reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α). They also restored mitochondrial membrane potential and enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Results:In vivo, treatment improved zebrafish survival, normalized SOD activity to 76–89% of control levels, and decreased ROS and MDA by 2.4 to 3.8 fold, with UDCA showing the greatest efficacy. Molecular docking revealed strong binding affinities to Keap1, particularly UDCA, which interacted with residues Met577, Ala440, Val532, and Val486. qRT-PCR further demonstrated downregulation of Keap1 and upregulation of Nrf2 and SOD, indicating activation of the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway. Conclusions: Collectively, these findings show that oats and bran-derived microbial metabolites exert potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects via modulation of the Keap1-Nrf2 axis. Among the metabolites, UDCA exhibited the strongest biological activity at equivalent concentrations. This study provides mechanistic insight into how microbiota-derived oat metabolites contribute to redox balance and immune regulation, supporting their potential as functional components in dietary strategies for managing oxidative stress-related inflammatory diseases. Full article

Plant-based milk alternatives (PBMAs) are plant-based fluid products that are marketed as substitutes for regular milk. The nutrient composition of PBMA products can vary widely, depending on the plant source, processing methods, potential additives, etc., and in recent years, considerable research effort has been devoted to the exploration of the nutritional content of PBMAs, which are increasingly consumed worldwide. In the present study, an established UHPLC–Orbitrap MS method was employed for the extensive characterization of phenolic compounds in PBMAs available in the Greek market. Twenty-eight PBMAs were studied, including a variety of almond-, soy-, coconut-, oat-, walnut-, and rice-based products. In almond-based milk products, low total concentrations and a broad distribution across compound classes were observed, with trans-chlorogenic acid and neochlorogenic acid being the most abundant constituents, whereas coconut-based milk samples were generally not rich in phenolic compounds. In soy-based milk samples, the presence of isoflavones including daidzein, genistein, and glycitein was uniquely detected, while oat-based products were the samples richer in phenolic content, in particular for hydroxycinnamic acids, such as trans-chlorogenic acid and neochlorogenic acid. In addition, a suspect screening approach, using Exactive Plus Orbitrap, enabled the exploration and semi-quantification of three avenanthramides (A, B, C) in the studied oat-based milk samples and six isoflavonoids, namely daidzein and genistein derivatives, in soy-based milk. Such compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and their occurrence in PBMAs highlights the potential health-promoting effects of these dairy alternatives. Full article

Background: Obesity is clinically known to be associated with an increased risk and aggravated pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). A high-fat diet (HFD), the major contributor to obesity, induces neuroinflammation and central insulin resistance, both of which are linked to synaptic dysfunction. Our previous studies demonstrated that avenanthramide-C (Avn-C), a natural oat-derived phenolic compound, exerts anti-inflammatory effects and alleviates synaptic dysfunction in conventional AD models. The present study aimed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of Avn-C in obesity-accelerated AD. Methods: Two-month-old male 5×FAD mice were fed an HFD to induce obesity and then treated with Avn-C. Cognitive performance, synaptic function, and structure were assessed via behavioral tests, electrophysiological recordings, and Golgi–Cox staining, respectively. Cytokine levels were quantified using ELISA and Western blotting. To explore the underlying mechanism, the NOD1 agonist C12-iE-DAP was administered to evaluate its effect on Avn-C-mediated neuroprotection. Results: Avn-C reduced Aβ deposition, enhanced the expression of synapse proteins, and restored synaptic plasticity, thereby improving both spatial and recognition memory in obese 5×FAD mice. Furthermore, Avn-C reduced neuroinflammation by inhibiting the NOD1/RIP2/NF-κB signaling pathway. Co-treatment with C12-iE-DAP abolished the beneficial effects of Avn-C on neuroinflammation, Aβ pathology, and cognitive function. Conclusions: These results suggest that Avn-C mitigates obesity-exacerbated AD-like pathological features by suppressing NOD1/RIP2/NF-κB-mediated neuroinflammation and could be a new potential therapeutic strategy for obesity-associated AD. Full article

The present study aimed to standardize germinated oat extracts (GOEs) by profiling avenanthramides (AVNs) and phenolic acids and evaluate their neuroprotective effects against Aβ_1-42-induced cytotoxicity in human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells. GOEs were standardized to contain 1652.56 ± 3.37 µg/g dry weight (dw) of total AVNs, including 468.52 ± 17.69 µg/g AVN A, 390.33 ± 10.26 µg/g AVN B, and 641.22 ± 13.89 µg/g AVN C, along with 490.03 ± 7.83 µg/g dw of ferulic acid, using a validated analytical method. Treatment with AVN C and GOEs significantly inhibited Aβ_1-42-induced cytotoxicity (p < 0.05). Furthermore, both AVNs and GOEs markedly reduced Aβ_1-42-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in SH-SY5Y cells, showing significant scavenging activity at concentrations of 25 μg/mL (AVNs) and 50 μg/mL (GOEs) (p < 0.05). RT-PCR analysis revealed that AVNs and GOEs effectively downregulated the expression of inflammation- and apoptosis-related genes triggered by Aβ_1-42 exposure. These findings suggest that GOEs rich in AVNs may serve as a potential functional ingredient for enhancing memory function through the inhibition of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Full article

Most approved drugs for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are indicated for early to moderate stages and primarily target amyloid-beta or neurotransmitter systems. While these treatments may slow cognitive decline, they do not halt disease progression and are often limited by high cost and modest efficacy. Natural compounds are increasingly being explored as alternative interventions. Our previous study showed that oral administration of Avenanthramide-C (Avn-C), a natural polyphenol from oats, for 14 days from early AD stages improved cognition and reduced neuroinflammation in AD mice. To assess its long-term potential, in this study we extended Avn-C treatment to three months starting from early disease stages in 5xFAD and Tg2576 models. Sustained administration preserved recovered long-term potentiation (LTP) by maintaining AMPK activation and inhibiting caspase-3 and GSK3β, thereby reducing amyloid accumulation and tau hyperphosphorylation in the hippocampus. Avn-C also maintained anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing NF-κB-mediated proinflammatory cytokine release and preventing chronic microglial activation. This promoted microglial coverage of plaques in vivo and enhanced phagocytosis in vitro. Our findings suggest that early and sustained Avn-C treatment preserves cognitive function, modulates multiple pathological pathways, and may slow or prevent AD progression by targeting early neurodegenerative processes before irreversible damage occurs. Full article

With increasing research, the nutritional value of oats is gaining recognition. Fermentation is an emerging biotransformation pattern that changes the nutritional structure of whole grains. Currently, research on whole-grain fermentation is relatively focused on phenolic compounds and their antioxidants, but less attention has been given to avenanthramides (Avns) and the glycemic index (GI) in fermented oats. In this study, oats were subjected to solid-state fermentation (SSF) by Monascus purpureus for 21 days, and samples were taken at different time points. Changes in the contents of nutrients, phytochemicals, and antinutritional factors were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Additionally, a simulated in vitro digestion experiment was conducted to assess the estimated glycemic index (eGI) of SSF oats. The results revealed that the nutritional structure of oats was changed by SSF, and the Avns content significantly increased, with 3.2 times more Avns in SSF oats than in unfermented oats, including 3.05, 3.09, 3.09, and 3.7 times more Avn A, Avn B, Avn C, and Avn D, respectively, and the eGI was reduced from 40.22 to 39.97 with increasing fermentation time. In general, SSF with Monascus purpureus has improved nutritional value, significantly increased the content of active ingredients, and reduced the level of eGI and two antinutritional factors (phytate and oxalate), which provides an effective way to improve the nutritional and digestive characteristics of oats. Full article

Exposure to tamoxifen can exert effects on the human liver, and esterases process prodrugs such as antibiotics and convert them to less toxic metabolites. In this study, the porcine liver esterase (PLE)-inhibitory activity of tamoxifen has been investigated. PLE showed inhibition of a PLE isoenzyme (PLE5). In addition, avenanthramides, which have a similar structure to that of tamoxifen, have been used to determine the PLE-inhibitory effect. Among the avenanthramide derivatives, avenanthramide B has been shown to inhibit PLE. Avenanthramide B interacts with Lys284 of PLE, whereas avenanthramide A and C counteract with Lys284. Avenanthramide B has shown a similar inhibitory effect to that of tamoxifen. Given that avenanthramide B can modulate the action of PLE, it can be used in pharmaceutical and industrial applications for modulating the effects of PLE. Based on superimposed structures between PLE and human liver esterase, the impact of tamoxifen use in humans is discussed. In addition, this study can serve as a fundamental basis for future investigations regarding the potential risk of tamoxifen and other drugs. Thus, this study presents an insight into the comparison of structurally similar tamoxifen and avenanthramides on liver esterases, which can have implications for the pharmaceutical and agricultural industries. Full article

Background: Oat-based Milk Alternatives (OMAs) provide multiple health benefits arising from oat’s unique compounds: avenanthramides, avenacosides, and dietary fibre β-glucan. Avenanthramides–polyphenols, unique to oats, provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, whilst avenacosides are saponins with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. β-Glucans assist in lowering blood cholesterol and lead to the prevention of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. However, oats undergo many stages of processing to ensure a sensory appealing and safe OMA product, including enzymatic treatment, heating, high shear, decanting of larger solids, and homogenisation. It is possible that throughout these stages, compounds may be affected by degradation or lost entirely. Objective: The concentration of avenanthramides, avenacosides, and β-glucans in the OMA samples was measured at each of the 12 stages of an OMA production, with a comparison of short ultra-heat treatment (UHT) and prolonged high heat treatment, to assess how they may be affected. Design: OMA samples were produced from basic ingredients within the pilot plant. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to measure the concentration of avenanthramides and avenacosides. β-Glucan was determined spectrophotometrically using the Megazymes assay. Results: Avenanthramides and avenacosides were found to significantly increase in concentration after initial enzymatic treatment with alpha-amylase, whilst avenanthramides also increased post 90 °C treatment, and decanting – suggesting that these compounds are not being lost in the removed solids. However, avenanthramides decreased after UHT and prolonged heat treatment, suggesting they may be susceptible to degradation from prolonged heat and temperatures above 120 °C. β-Glucans concentrations decreased post glucoamylase treatment, and decanting – suggesting that β-glucans are lost within the decanted slurry, and increased after treatment with alpha-amylase, 90 °C and high shear mixing. Conclusion: With this information, future products may be optimised to preserve these components to improve the health benefits of oat-based milk alternatives. Full article

Cisplatin-induced ototoxicity leads to hearing impairment, possibly through reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and DNA damage in cochlear hair cells (HC), although the exact mechanism is unknown. Avenanthramide-C (AVN-C), a natural, potent antioxidant, was evaluated in three study groups of normal adult C57Bl/6 mice (control, cisplatin, and AVN-C+cisplatin) for the prevention of cisplatin-induced hearing loss. Auditory brainstem responses and immunohistochemistry of outer hair cells (OHCs) were ascertained. Cell survival, ROS production, Phospho-H2AX-enabled tracking of DNA damage-repair kinetics, and expression levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL6, iNOS, and COX2) were assessed using House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti 1 (HEI-OC1 Cells). In the in vivo mouse model, following cisplatin-induced damage, AVN-C decreased the hearing thresholds and sheltered all cochlear turns’ OHCs. In HEI-OC1 cells, AVN-C preserved cell viability and decreased ROS production, whereas cisplatin enhanced both ROS levels and cell viability. In HEI-OC1 cells, AVN-C downregulated IL6, IL-1β, TNF-α, iNOS, and COX2 production that was upregulated by cisplatin treatment. AVN-C attenuated the cisplatin-enhanced nuclear H2AX activation. AVN-C had a strong protective effect against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity through inhibition of ROS and inflammatory cytokine production and DNA damage and is thus a promising candidate for preventing cisplatin-induced sensorineural hearing loss. Full article

Oat consumption has increased during the last decade because of the health benefits associated with its soluble dietary fiber (β-glucan), functional proteins, lipids, and the presence of specific phytochemicals, such as avenanthramides. Oat is consumed mainly as whole grain, and the hull (seed coat), comprising 25–35% of the entire grain, is removed, generating a large amount of waste/by-product from the milling industry. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of biotechnological strategies, such as sprouting for oat grain (OG) and hydrolysis for oat hull (OH), to enhance antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and lower the glycemic index (GI). Sprouting produced significant (p ≤ 0.05) increases in free (32.10 to 76.62 mg GAE (100 g)⁻¹) and bound phenols (60.45 to 124.36 mg GAE (100 g)⁻¹), increasing significantly (p ≤ 0.05) the avenanthramide (2c, 2p and 2f) soluble phenolic alkaloid content and anti-inflammatory properties of OG. On the other hand, the hydrolysis of OH using Viscoferm (EH2-OH) and Ultraflo XL (EH21-OH) increased by 4.5 and 5-fold the release of bound phenols, respectively; meanwhile, the use of Viscoferm increased the 4.55-fold soluble β-glucan content in OH, reaching values close to those of OG (4.04 vs. 4.46 g (100 g)⁻¹). The study shows the potential of both strategies to enhance the nutritional and bioactive properties of OG and OH and describes these processes as feasible for the industry to obtain an ingredient with high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Single or combined biotechnological tools can be used on oat grains and hulls to provide nutraceutical ingredients. Full article

Avena sativa L. is a wholegrain cereal and an important edible crop. Oats possesses high nutritional and health promoting values and contains high levels of bioactive compounds, including a group of phenolic amides, named avenanthramides (Avns), exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) represents one of the most known oncogenes and it is frequently up-regulated or mutated in human cancers. The oncogenic effects of EGFR include enhanced cell growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis, and down-regulation or inhibition of EGFR signaling has therapeutic benefit. Front-line EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy is the standard therapy for patients with EGFR-mutated lung cancer. However, the clinical effects of EGFR inhibition may be lost after a few months of treatment due to the onset of resistance. Here, we showed the anticancer activity of Avns, focusing on EGFR activation and signaling pathway. Lung cancer cellular models have been used to evaluate the activity of Avns on tumor growth, migration, EMT, and anoikis induced by EGF. In addition, docking and molecular dynamics simulations showed that the Avns bind with high affinity to a region in the vicinity of αC-helix and the DGF motif of EGFR, jeopardizing the target biological function. Altogether, our results reveal a new pharmacological activity of Avns as EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Full article

As a special polyphenolic compound in oats, the physiological function of oat avenanthramides (AVAs) drives a variety of biological activities, and plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of common chronic diseases. In this study, the optimum extraction conditions and structural identification of AVAs from oats was studied. The inhibitory effect of AVAs from oats on advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) in a glucose–casein simulation system was evaluated, and this revealed dose-dependent inhibitory effects. The trapping capacity of AVAs to the α-dicarbonyl compounds of AGE intermediate products was determined by HPLC–MS/MS, and the results indicate that AVA 2c, AVA 2p, and AVA 2f exhibited the ability to capture α-dicarbonyl compounds. More importantly, AVA 2f was found to be more efficient than AVA 2p at inhibiting superoxide anion radical (O₂⁻), hydroxyl radical (OH), and singlet oxygen (¹O₂) radical generation, which may be the main reason that AVA 2f was more efficient than AVA 2p in AGE inhibition. Thus, this research presents a promising application of AVAs from oats in inhibiting the food-borne AGEs formed in food processing. Full article