Search Results (1,436)

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) are among the most widely consumed and nutritious vegetables globally, being abundant in lycopene, carotenoids, phenolics, organic acids, vitamins, and several other bioactive and health-enhancing compounds. Tomato processing yields a substantial residue known as tomato pomace (TP), primarily composed of peels and seeds, along with a small quantity of pulp. This study investigates the potential of TP powder, rich in dietary fiber, lycopene, polyphenols, and other bioactive compounds, as a natural ingredient in semi-hard cheese. The cheese was enhanced with varying concentrations of TP (5%, 7%), and each variant was assessed for physico-chemicals, sensory properties, minerals, color, phytochemicals, and texture. Cheeses supplemented with TP showed elevated levels of phytochemicals (45.44–82.83 mg GAE/100 g), greater antioxidant capacity (470.25–977.41 µmol TE/g), and higher fiber content (3.62–5.44%), while sensory acceptability remained acceptable at lower inclusion levels but decreased at 7% TP due to slightly bitter aftertaste. Textural analysis showed minimal changes in TP-enriched cheeses, suggesting that TP can be integrated into semi-hard cheese matrices without compromising quality. This study illustrates the feasibility of utilizing TP as an important ingredient in cheese manufacturing, aiding in waste minimization and fostering a circular economy within the food sector. The findings underscore TP’s capacity to enhance dairy products, facilitating innovative and sustainable food solutions that advance health and environmental objectives. Full article

Maqui (Aristotelia chilensis) is a berry native to southern Chile, recognized for its high content of phenolic compounds, particularly delphinidin-type anthocyanins, which confer strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and have generated growing interest as a functional food. Its scientific relevance has increased due to advances in understanding its biological mechanisms, including the Nrf2 signaling pathway, modulation of systemic inflammation, improvement in mitochondrial function, and potential applications in cardiometabolic, renal, and vascular health. Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the available evidence on maqui in relation to its nutritional composition, bioactive profile, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, bioavailability, and emerging clinical applications in the prevention and/or treatment of chronic non-communicable diseases. Main findings: Maqui is rich in delphinidins, dietary fiber, and antioxidant micronutrients and modulates key oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, including Nrf2-HO-1 and NF-κB. Preclinical and early clinical evidence supports its cardiometabolic and nephroprotective effects, with improvements in glycemic control, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and endothelial function. Conclusions: Maqui shows considerable potential as a Chilean functional food with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects relevant to human health. However, robust clinical trials and formulations with enhanced bioavailability are required to consolidate its therapeutic application. Full article

The concept of functional nutrition has garnered mounting attention, primarily due to growing evidence that specific dietary components have the capacity to provide health benefits that extend beyond the mere supply of basic nutrients. In this context, glucosinolate-rich species of the Brassicales order are of importance as a source of bioactive compounds, which exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and chemoprotective properties. The review identifies which Brassicales species may be considered as functional foods or functional ingredients. It does so by starting from their glucosinolate profile, summarizing their potential applications in disease prevention, and highlighting current strategies aimed at enhancing glucosinolate levels through agronomic practices and processing approaches. The potential applications of the main species of the Brassicales order in the prevention of cardiovascular, obesity-related and degenerative diseases, as well as in the development of functional foods, are highlighted. These species are considered both as ready-to-use functional foods and as functional ingredients that can be obtained through extraction or fermentation processes, including the valorization of agricultural waste. Full article

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by synovial joint inflammation and different system involvement that results in considerable physical and psychological symptoms. This narrative review investigates the impacts of nutritional diet therapy on RA symptoms, highlighting recent scientific findings in terms of how different dietary components may modulate inflammation and disease activity. Treatment of RA includes conventional and biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and symptomatic response modifiers, like corticosteroids and non-steroidal antirheumatic drugs (NSAIDS). However, nutritional interventions are becoming more and more popular due to their ability to alter inflammation. The review also focuses on macronutrients such as proteins and fats, stressing the usefulness of omega-3 fat acids/monounsaturated fat acids but warning against high intake of processed carbohydrates/sugars. Besides that, it explores the effects of micronutrients and bioactive compounds like polyphenols which may minimize RA symptoms and result in better disease control together with vitamin D or probiotics. This study highlights that incorporating anti-inflammatory foods can benefit the health and well-being of RA patients. Dietary modification may serve as a supportive approach alongside conventional treatments, helping patients improve both physical and mental aspects of their condition and achieve a better quality of life. Full article

Annurca apple extract is gaining growing attention for its beneficial properties, particularly its outstanding antioxidant activity. Using a combination of biophysical, cell, and molecular biology techniques, this study investigates the sustainable valorization of Annurca apple by-products at different ripening stages and their role in the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), as well as in protection against AGE-related cytotoxicity. AGEs are a class of compounds formed by non-enzymatic reactions between reducing sugars and proteins, lipids, or nucleic acids. They can be produced endogenously or ingested through dietary sources and tobacco smoke. AGEs accumulate in nearly all mammalian tissues and are linked to various health issues, such as diabetes and its related complications, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Our data show that Annurca apple by-products at different ripening stages differentially counteract AGEs’ formation by inhibiting protein glycation and protect against AGE-induced cytotoxicity in endothelial cells. In particular, the extracts reduce AGE-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, thereby inhibiting MAPK signaling pathways and caspase-3 activation. Moreover, ripening significantly enhances the concentration of bioactive compounds and the extent of cellular protection. This study highlights new beneficial properties of Annurca apple extracts and suggests that adopting nutritional interventions may support health and potentially reduce the risk of complications associated with AGE accumulation. Full article

Wild edible plants represent an underexploited resource for enhancing agrobiodiversity and promoting more sustainable food systems. Urospermum dalechampii (Asteraceae) is a traditional Mediterranean wild edible species widely used in local cuisines, yet it remains marginal in modern horticulture. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge on the nutritional composition, phytochemical profile, biological activities, and agronomic potential of U. dalechampii. Available evidence indicates that its edible tissues are characterized by a favorable nutritional profile, including appreciable levels of dietary fiber, minerals, and beneficial fatty acids. Moreover, the species is a rich source of bioactive compounds—particularly phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenoids—which have been associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Recent studies have demonstrated the feasibility of domesticating U. dalechampii through both soil-based and soilless cultivation systems, including baby-leaf and microgreen production, thereby enabling controlled yields and reducing harvesting pressure on wild populations. Nevertheless, research on this species remains fragmented, and several knowledge gaps persist, notably the absence of standardized agronomic protocols, limited information on post-harvest management and safety, and potential market constraints related to bitterness and variability in product quality. Overall, U. dalechampii emerges as a promising candidate for sustainable horticulture and the development of functional foods. Full article

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of reactive extrusion (thermomechanical and chemical process) on the chemical composition, techno-functional properties, glucose and cholesterol adsorption capacity, and bioactive compound profile of spent coffee grounds (SCG). SCG was extruded using citric acid or alkaline hydrogen peroxide as reagents, and a control sample was extruded without reagents. Treatment with citric acid resulted in the highest levels of total dietary fiber (79.6 g/100 g) and insoluble fiber (76.2 g/100 g), especially cellulose, and significantly improved glucose (32.7 mmol/L) and cholesterol (4.5 mg/g) adsorption at neutral pH. Treatment with alkaline hydrogen peroxide increased water retention capacity (3.9 g/g). Although chemical treatments reduced total polyphenol and antioxidant activity, they effectively broke down the lignocellulosic matrix, thereby increasing fiber availability and functionality. Extrusion without reagents (processes induced by mechanical and thermal factors) favored the retention of caffeine and chlorogenic acids, increasing soluble fiber and maintaining antioxidant capacity. Therefore, reactive extrusion is a technological strategy that aligns with the principles of the circular economy, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to landfill disposal and adding value to spent coffee grounds by transforming lignocellulosic residue into functional ingredients with broad application potential. Full article

Microalgae have emerged as sustainable biofactories producing diverse bioactive compounds with significant applications in nutrition and cosmetics. Their high metabolic versatility makes them promising alternatives to conventional resources for addressing global challenges such as malnutrition, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. This review provides an integrated perspective on microalgal bioactives, highlighting their role in functional foods, dietary supplements, and maternal and infant nutrition, as well as their incorporation into cosmetic formulations for anti-aging, photoprotection, hydration, and microbiome support. Mechanistic insights reveal antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and extracellular matrix-preserving effects, alongside UV absorption and barrier reinforcement. The review also discusses their biochemical diversity, mechanisms of action, safety, regulatory considerations, and emerging technologies for formulation and delivery. AI-driven and machine-learning approaches using microalgae for cosmetic and nutritional applications have also been discussed. Overall, microalgae serve as a cornerstone for next-generation nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals, aligning with sustainability and circular-economy principles. Full article

Dietary bioactive compounds are increasingly explored as complementary cardioprotective strategies, and the nitration of unsaturated fatty acids has emerged as a process capable of enhancing antiplatelet properties. This study investigated whether Phaseolus vulgaris L. extracts can generate nitrated fatty acids under gastric-like conditions and evaluated their effects on human platelet function. Bean extracts and major fatty acids were nitrated in vitro and tested using washed platelets to assess cytotoxicity, TRAP-6 and collagen-induced aggregation, activation markers (P-selectin, CD63), and mitochondrial responses including membrane potential, ROS production, and Ca²⁺ dynamics. Nitrated extracts markedly inhibited TRAP-6 induced aggregation (IC₅₀ ≈ 1.8 mg/mL), whereas non-nitrated extracts showed minimal activity; this effect was reversed by β-mercaptoethanol, indicating dependence on electrophilic nitroalkenes. Fractionation revealed that the lipidic fraction accounted for most of the antiplatelet effect, and isolated nitrated fatty acids (NO₂-LN, NO₂-LA, NO₂-OA) displayed stronger inhibition than their native counterparts without increasing cytotoxicity. Nitrated species additionally reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and granule secretion without elevating ROS. These findings identify Phaseolus vulgaris L. as a natural source of bioactive nitrated fatty acids and support their potential as nutraceutical agents capable of modulating platelet activation and contributing to cardiovascular risk reduction. Full article

Cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and effective strategies for cancer prevention are urgently needed to complement therapeutic advances. While dietary factors are known to influence cancer risk, the molecular mechanisms that mediate inter-individual responses to nutritional exposures remain poorly defined. Emerging evidence identifies long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as pivotal regulators of gene expression, chromatin organization, metabolic homeostasis, immune signaling, and cellular stress responses, the core processes that drive cancer initiation and progression and are highly sensitive to nutritional status. In parallel, advances in precision nutrition have highlighted how variability in genetics, metabolism, microbiome composition, and epigenetic landscapes shape dietary influences on cancer susceptibility. This review integrates these rapidly evolving fields by positioning lncRNAs as molecular conduits that translate dietary exposures into transcriptional and epigenetic programs governing cancer development, progression, and therapeutic vulnerability. We provide mechanistic evidence demonstrating how dietary bioactive compounds and micronutrients, including polyphenols [such as curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)], flavonoids, alkaloids such as berberine, omega-3 (ω-3) fatty acids, folate, vitamin D, probiotic metabolites (such as butyrate and propionate), and trace elements (such as selenium and zinc), modulate oncogenic and tumor-suppressive lncRNAs. These nutrient–lncRNA interactions influence cancer-relevant pathways controlling proliferation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic rewiring. We further discuss emerging lncRNA signatures that reflect nutritional and metabolic states, their potential utility as biomarkers for individualized dietary interventions, and their integration into liquid biopsy platforms. Leveraging multi-omics datasets and systems biology, we outline AI-driven frameworks to map nutrient–lncRNA regulatory networks and identify targetable nodes for cancer chemoprevention. Finally, we address translational challenges, including compound bioavailability, inter-individual variability, and limited clinical validation, and propose future directions for incorporating lncRNA profiling into precision nutrition-guided cancer prevention trials. Together, these insights position lncRNAs at the nexus of diet and cancer biology and establish a foundation for mechanistically informed precision nutrition strategies in cancer chemoprevention. Full article

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic autoimmune diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The incidence of IBD has been increasing in newly industrialized countries, whereas current conventional therapeutic medications are ineffective and have unavoidable side effects. In recent years, exosome-like nanoparticles (ELNs) isolated from natural dietary ingredients have played a positive role in the treatment of IBD. These vesicles can exert therapeutic effects on IBD through modulating inflammation-related cytokines, repairing the intestinal barrier, and regulating the intestinal microbiota. In this study, we outline the physiological functions and applications of plant-and animal-derived of ELNs in IBD. Particular emphasis is given to the therapeutic mechanism and efficacy of these ELNs Additionally, the modification of ELNs and loading bioactive compounds in ELNs for improved effects on IBD are discussed. Finally, the prospects and challenges of the dietary-derived ELNs are proposed. Full article

Synucleinopathies, including Parkinson’s disease (PD), are neurodegenerative disorders characterized by aberrant aggregation of α-synuclein (α-syn), a presynaptic protein with an intrinsic disorder nature. The transition of soluble monomers into oligomeric and fibrillar species represents a key molecular event driving neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration. Emerging evidence suggests that nutraceuticals, bioactive compounds derived from dietary sources, can modulate α-syn aggregation at multiple conformational stages. Polyphenols, alkaloids, ginsenosides, and food-derived peptides interfere with α-syn structure and assembly, suppressing the formation of toxic oligomer species and promoting the clearance of misfolded assemblies. Despite this potential, clinical translational of nutraceuticals is currently limited by poor systemic bioavailability and restricted central nervous system penetration due to blood–brain barrier constraints, which have largely confined research to preclinical studies. In this context, this review summarizes current knowledge of nutraceutical interventions targeting the conformational landscape of α-syn and highlighting both direct and indirect molecular mechanisms with involved in aggregation-prone species. Furthermore, we critically examine key challenges related to bioavailability and clinical translation, focusing on advanced delivery systems and precision-based approaches to enhance neuroprotective efficacy and support the potential of nutraceuticals as novel or adjunctive therapeutic strategies for PD. Full article

Diplotaxis tenuifolia (Brassicaceae), valued for its culinary use and bioactive potential, has not yet been comprehensively characterized in terms of its chemical composition and biological properties. This study investigated the nutritional profile, phytochemical composition, and antioxidant activity of D. tenuifolia cultivated in Portugal. The leaves contain substantial levels of essential minerals, particularly calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, manganese, and chromium, while heavy metal levels were below regulatory safety limits. The nutritional profile also revealed high dietary fiber content, enriched glutamic and aspartic acids in the protein fraction, and α-linolenic acid as the predominant fatty acid. Phenolic compounds were most efficiently extracted by boiling them in 80% methanol, yielding the highest total phenolic (125.41 mg gallic acid equivalents g⁻¹) and flavonoid contents (3.72 mg quercetin equivalents g⁻¹). HPLC-PDA-ESI-MSⁿ analysis enabled the detailed characterization of phenolic acids, flavonol glycosides, and glucosinolates, highlighting the first report of sulfoglucobrassicin in D. tenuifolia. Additionally, 6-methylsulfonyl-3-oxohexyl-glucosinolate, proline, pipecolic acid, glucaric acid, eicosanoic acid, 9,10,12,13-tetrahydroxy-octadecanoic acid (sativic acid) and 9,12,13-trihydroxyoctadec-10-enoic acid were described for the first time in this species. The extract exhibited also antioxidant activity, with ABTS IC₅₀ 57.54 ± 0.18 µg mL⁻¹, DPPH IC₅₀ 302.73 ± 2.36 µg mL⁻¹, and FRAP 752.71 ± 4.59 µmol eq. Fe(II) g⁻¹. These findings establish D. tenuifolia as a nutritionally rich plant and a promising source of natural antioxidants for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications. Full article

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), redefined from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a global health concern driving the search for dietary interventions based on natural compounds. Phloroglucinaldehyde (PGA), a primary phenolic metabolite of the widely consumed anthocyanin cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) found in berries and other fruits, has emerged as a promising candidate due to its potential higher bioavailability than its parent compound. This study investigates the protective effects of PGA against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced MAFLD. Using both in vitro (LO2 cells) and in vivo (C57BL/6J mice) models, we found that PGA administration significantly attenuated body weight gain and hepatic steatosis, while reducing serum levels of TG, TC, liver transaminases (AST & ALT), and insulin resistance (p < 0.05). Further liver lipidomic profiling revealed that PGA supplementation specifically down-regulated 46 lipid species (p < 0.05), predominantly triglycerides characterized by long-chain and very-long-chain saturated fatty acids. Mechanistically, PGA enhanced the hepatic antioxidant capacity by increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (p < 0.05) and decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.05) and exerted anti-inflammatory effects by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF, MCP-1) (p < 0.05) and endotoxin levels (p < 0.05). Correlation analyses further linked the down-regulated lipids to improvements in oxidative stress and inflammation. Our findings underscore that PGA, a key bioactive metabolite derived from dietary anthocyanins, alleviates MAFLD through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting its potential as a functional food ingredient or nutraceutical for metabolic health. Full article

The escalating incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC), particularly the alarming rise in early-onset cases, necessitates a paradigm shift from a purely genetic perspective to a broader investigation of promising pathways. This review explores the “nutri-epigenetic” interface, positioning liquid biopsy as a critical technology for translating dietary impacts into actionable clinical biomarkers. We contrast the molecular consequences of the Western dietary pattern, characterized by methyl-donor deficiency and pro-inflammatory metabolites, with the protective mechanisms of the Mediterranean diet. Mechanistically, we detail how Western-style diets drive a specific “epigenetic double-hit”: promoting global DNA hypomethylation (destabilizing LINE-1) while paradoxically inducing promoter hypermethylation of critical tumour suppressors (MLH1, APC, MGMT) and silencing tumour-suppressive microRNAs (miR-34b/c, miR-137) via methylation of their encoding genes. Conversely, we highlight the capacity of Mediterranean bioactive compounds (e.g., resveratrol, curcumin, butyrate) to inhibit DNA methyltransferases and restore epigenetic homeostasis. Bridging molecular biology and clinical utility, we demonstrate how these diet-sensitive signatures, specifically circulating methylated DNA and dysregulated microRNAs, can be captured via liquid biopsy. We propose that these circulating analytes serve as dynamic, accessible biomarkers for monitoring the molecular progression toward a carcinogenic state, thereby establishing a novel framework for personalized risk stratification and validating the efficacy of preventive nutritional strategies. Full article