Search Results (836)

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), such as ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease are chronic idiopathic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal system involving interaction between genetic and environmental factors mediating the occurrence of oxidative stress and inflammation. There is no permanent cure for IBD except long-term treatment or surgery (resection of the intestine), and the available agents in the long term appear unsatisfactory and elicit numerous adverse effects. To keep the disease in remission, prevent relapses and minimize adverse effects of currently used medicines, novel dietary compounds of natural origin convincingly appear to be one of the important therapeutic strategies for the pharmacological targeting of oxidative stress and inflammation. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate plant-derived dietary agents to overcome the debilitating conditions of IBD. In the present study, the effect of α-Bisabolol (BSB), a dietary bioactive monoterpene commonly found in many edible plants as well as important components of traditional medicines, was investigated in acetic acid (AA)-induced colitis model in rats. BSB was orally administered to Wistar male rats at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day either for 3 days before or 30 min after induction of IBD for 7 days through intrarectal administration of AA. The changes in body weight, macroscopic and microscopic analysis of the colon and calprotectin levels in the colon of rats from different experimental groups were observed on day 0, 2, 4, and 7. The levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), a marker of neutrophil activation, reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA), a marker of lipid peroxidation, and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured. AA caused a significant reduction in body weight and induced macroscopic and microscopic ulcers, along with a significant decline of endogenous antioxidants (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and GSH), with a concomitant increase in MDA level and MPO activity. BSB significantly improved the AA-induced reduction in body weight, colonic mucosal histology, inhibited MDA formation, and restored antioxidant levels along with a reduction in MPO activity. AA also induced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-23 (IL-23) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Furthermore, AA also increased levels of calprotectin, a protein released by neutrophils under inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. BSB treatment significantly reduced the release of calprotectin and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The findings of the present study demonstrate that BSB has the potential to improve disease activity and rescue colonic tissues from damage by inhibiting oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and inflammation. The findings are suggestive of the benefits of BSB in IBD treatment and substantiate its usefulness in colitis management, along with its gastroprotective effects in gastric ulcer. Full article

Intestinal regeneration is essential for maintaining epithelial integrity and repairing mucosal damage caused by inflammation, infections, or injuries. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has long utilized herbal remedies for gastrointestinal disorders, and accumulating evidence highlights that natural compounds derived from TCM possess significant regenerative potential. This review summarizes the multifaceted mechanisms by which these bioactive compounds promote intestinal healing. Key actions include the stimulation of intestinal stem cell (ISC) proliferation and differentiation, the modulation of inflammatory responses, the reinforcement of epithelial barrier integrity, the attenuation of oxidative stress, and the reshaping of the gut microbiota. Representative compounds such as Astragalus polysaccharides, berberine, curcumin, puerarin, and flavonoids like quercetin exhibit these effects through signaling pathways, including HIF-1, Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, Nrf2, and IL-22. Evidence from in vitro organoid models and in vivo studies in colitis, radiation injury, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and intestinal dysmotility and diarrhea models demonstrates that these compounds enhance crypt villus regeneration, preserve tight junctions, and improve clinical outcomes. The holistic, multi-target actions of Chinese medicine-derived natural products make them promising candidates for therapeutic strategies aimed at intestinal repair. Further clinical validation and mechanistic studies are warranted to facilitate their integration into modern gastrointestinal medicine. Full article

(1) Background: Over the years, technology and space missions have advanced, although the development of potential functional food and food supplements must be improved for maintaining astronauts’ health and helping them overcome space-specific challenges during long missions. (2) Scope and approach: Using a review approach, this study aimed to investigate the potential of functional food to counteract radiation and microgravity spaceflight-related health problems. (3) Results: Microgravity and space radiation affect the body’s biochemical processes and increase levels of reactive oxygen species, which may lead to health problems, including musculoskeletal deconditioning, cardiovascular degeneration, disruptions in gastrointestinal health, ocular problems, alterations to the immune system, and hormonal imbalances, among others. In addition to medical care, functional food plays a key role as a countermeasure against space-induced physiological issues. Previous research showed that functional food rich in flavonoids, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidant compounds, proteins, probiotics, or prebiotics strengthens the immune system and reduces risks associated with long spaceflights, such as bone density loss, muscle atrophy, oxidative stress, and other health alterations. (4) Conclusions: Despite the fundamental role of functional food in spaceflights, the main challenges remain in preserving and packaging these foods to ensure their safety on long space missions. Future innovations include 3D food printing, space algae cultivation, and novel preservation technologies. Full article

Human milk, especially colostrum, is a biologically complex fluid with potent protective properties against gastrointestinal disturbances in infants. Among intestinal protozoa transmitted via the fecal–oral route, this review focuses on Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica, as the protective role of milk-derived factors against these parasites is the most extensively documented. Its protective effects result from a wide range of bioactive components, including mucins, lactoferrin, human milk oligosaccharides, melatonin, and secretory IgA, which support the integrity of the intestinal barrier, regulate immune responses, and inhibit the adhesion and activity of pathogens. The composition of human milk can be influenced by maternal factors such as nutritional status, stress, sleep quality, and physical activity, which may modulate its immunological potential. Dietary intake of micronutrients, fermentable fibers, and fermented foods also appears to play a role in shaping the milk’s protective properties. This review discusses the molecular mechanisms by which selected milk components contribute to the defense against protozoan infections in early life and considers how maternal health and lifestyle may affect the effectiveness of these protective mechanisms. Full article

Background/Objectives: Nicotine-free electronic cigarettes (NFECs) are becoming increasingly popular, especially among youth and non-smokers, yet their effects on the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) remain poorly understood. This systematic review synthesizes available in vitro, in vivo, and limited human evidence on NFEC-associated changes in gastrointestinal health and function. Methods: Literature searches were conducted in Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus in July 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies examined NFEC effects on any GIT segment, including the oral cavity, liver, intestines, and microbiome. Data on study design, exposure characteristics, and main outcomes were extracted and narratively synthesized. Results: Of 111 identified records, 94 full-text articles were retrieved, and 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most were preclinical, with only one human pilot study. Evidence from oral cell and microbial models suggests that NFEC aerosols can induce pro-inflammatory cytokine production, impair cell viability, and disrupt microbial metabolism through their base constituents (propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine, and flavourings). Animal studies indicate possible hepatic oxidative stress, altered lipid metabolism, and gut barrier dysfunction, with some data suggesting more pronounced steatosis in nicotine-free exposures compared to nicotine-containing counterparts. Microbiome studies report reduced tight junction expression and altered neutrophil function. Conclusions: Current evidence is limited and predominantly preclinical but indicates that NFEC exposure can affect multiple aspects of gastrointestinal health. Robust longitudinal and interventional human studies are urgently needed to determine the clinical relevance of these findings and to inform regulation and public health policy. Full article

Chlorophyll, the green pigment essential for photosynthesis, abundantly found in green vegetables and algae, has attracted growing scientific interest for its potential therapeutic effects, particularly in diabetes management. Recent research highlighted that chlorophyll and its derivatives may beneficially influence glucose metabolism and oxidative stress, key factors in diabetes. This review examines current knowledge on how chlorophyll compounds could aid diabetes control. Chlorophyll and its derivatives appear to support glucose regulation primarily through actions in the gastrointestinal tract. They modulate gut microbiota, improve glucose tolerance, reduce inflammation, and alleviate obesity-related markers. While chlorophyll itself does not directly inhibit digestive enzymes like α-glucosidase, its derivatives such as pheophorbide a, pheophytin a, and pyropheophytin a may slow carbohydrate digestion, acting as α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors, reducing postprandial glucose spikes. Additionally, chlorophyll enhances resistant starch content, further controlling glucose absorption. Beyond digestion, chlorophyll derivatives show promise in inhibiting glycation processes, improving insulin sensitivity through nuclear receptor modulation, and lowering oxidative stress. However, some compounds pose risks due to photosensitizing effects and toxicity, warranting careful consideration. Chlorophyllin, a stable semi-synthetic derivative, also shows potential in improving glucose and lipid metabolism. Notably, pheophorbide a demonstrates insulin-mimetic activity by stimulating glucose uptake via glucose transporters, offering a novel therapeutic avenue. Overall, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and insulin-mimicking properties of chlorophyll derivatives suggest a multifaceted approach to diabetes management. While promising, these findings require further clinical validation to establish effective therapeutic applications. Full article

Oxidative and inflammatory stresses contribute to the development of many intestinal pathologies. This study characterized the polyphenolic profile and biological activity of a hydroalcoholic extract obtained from the fruit pulp of Feijoa sellowiana on HT29 intestinal epithelial cells subjected to oxidative (H₂O₂) and inflammatory (cytokines) stress. HPLC-DAD-MS analysis revealed an interesting phenolic composition, rich in hydrolyzable tannins (HHDP-glucose, pedunculagin and other ellagic acid derivatives) and condensed tannins (procyanidin dimers), with a total polyphenol content of 8.07 mg/g GAE. The extract was non-cytotoxic up to 160 µg/mL and exerted a protective effect against the cytokine-induced reduction in cell viability. In vitro assays confirmed its strong antioxidant and scavenging capacity. The scratch assay suggested enhanced cell migration. The extract modulated the activity of key metabolic enzymes restoring glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and enolase activity, while supporting glycolytic flux through pyruvate kinase and lactate dehydrogenase. PCA and Pearson correlation analyses confirmed a treatment-dependent modulation of the metabolic and redox profile, suggesting a regulatory role beyond a mere scavenging effect. These findings highlight the nutraceutical potential of feijoa polyphenols, not only as direct antioxidants but also as modulators of cellular metabolism and redox homeostasis, supporting their application in gastrointestinal disorders with oxidative or inflammatory components. Full article

Oxytocin (OT), traditionally associated with reproduction and social bonding, has emerged as a key modulator of gastrointestinal (GI) physiology and appetite regulation behavior through its actions within the gut–brain axis. Central to this regulation are vagal oxytocin receptors (VORs), which are located along vagal afferent and efferent fibers and within brainstem nuclei such as the nucleus tractus solitarius and dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus. This review presents a comprehensive synthesis of current knowledge on the anatomical distribution, molecular signaling, developmental plasticity, and functional roles of VORs in the regulation of GI motility, satiety, and energy homeostasis. We highlight how VORs integrate hormonal, microbial, and stress-related cues and interact with other neuropeptidergic systems including GLP-1, CCK, and nesfatin-1. Recent advances in spatial transcriptomics, single-nucleus RNA sequencing, chemogenetics, and optogenetics are discussed as transformative tools for mapping and manipulating VOR-expressing circuits. Particular attention is given to sex differences, translational challenges, and the limited understanding of VOR function in humans. This article proposes VORs as promising therapeutic targets in dysphagia, obesity, and functional GI disorders. We outline future research priorities, emphasizing the need for integrative, cross-species approaches to clarify VOR signaling and guide the development of targeted, personalized interventions. Full article

Gastric ulcer (GU) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that impacts quality of life. Currently, several drugs are available for GU treatment, including proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole (OMP); however, their use is limited by numerous potential adverse effects. Glycyrrhizic acid (GLY), a natural anti-inflammatory agent, exhibits promising gastroprotective properties; however, its use is likewise limited by numerous potential adverse effects. This study aimed to synthesize GLY nanoparticles (GLY-NPs) to enhance their therapeutic potential and to comparatively evaluate their efficacy against OMP in an ethanol-induced GU in male Wistar rats. GLY-NPs were synthesized via a hydrothermal method and characterized using TEM, XRD, FTIR, and zeta potential analyses. In vivo, GLY-NPs significantly attenuated gastric mucosal damage compared to OMP, as evidenced by macroscopic and histopathological analyses. Biochemical assays revealed that GLY-NPs markedly improved antioxidant defenses by elevating SOD, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities while reducing MDA levels, surpassing the effects of OMP. Furthermore, GLY-NPs modulated inflammatory responses by downregulating p38 MAPK, NF-κB, and TNF-α expression, concomitant with upregulation of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Mechanistic insights indicated that GLY-NPs favorably regulated key signaling pathways implicated in gastric mucosal protection, including suppression of the JAK2/STAT3 and TGF-β1/Smad3 pathways, alongside activation of the SIRT1/FOXO1/PGC-1α axis. In conclusion, these findings indicate that GLY-NPs offer higher gastroprotective effects relative to traditional OMP therapy through comprehensive modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and molecular signaling pathways. This study highlights GLY-NPs as a potent nanotherapeutic candidate for the effective management of GU. Full article

Background/Objectives: Oxidative stress is a pathophysiological factor that causes challenging issues in the treatment of several diseases, including gastric ulcer, inflammatory diseases, and adenocarcinomas. V. paradoxa and P. biglobosa are African plants whose parts are used for treating diseases, including gastrointestinal pathologies. This study aimed to characterize the gastroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of V. paradoxa and P. biglobosa stem bark extracts based on various solvents. Methods: The phytochemical screening and antioxidant evaluation were performed using radical scavenging (ABTS and DPPH) and reduction (FRAP and APM) methods. The anti-inflammatory activity was performed through an egg albumin denaturation model. The toxicological evaluation was performed on Artemia salina and female Wistar rat models, and the gastroprotective activity was carried out on an ethanolic-induced gastric ulcer rat model. Results: The results reported that V. paradoxa stem bark extracts contain catechin, epicatechin, ferulic acid, apigenin-7-gluc, and hesperidin, while P. biglobosa bark contains chlorogenic acid, catechin, caffeine, epicatechin, and cichoric acid. In the DPPH assay, the lowest scavenging capacities were 1.8 ± 0.21 mmol AAE/mg of dry extract (V. paradoxa, 97% ethanol) and 11.43 ± 0.208 mmol AAE/mg of dry extract (P. biglobosa, 50% ethanol). Similarly, for ABTS, the lowest scavenging capacities were 0.9726 ± 0.03952 mmol AAE/mg of dry extract (V. paradoxa, methanol with 1% HCl) and 1.3 mmol AAE/mg of dry extract (P. biglobosa, 97% ethanol), indicating strong antioxidant capacity. In the FRAP assay, both species reached a maximum reducing power of 2.39 mMol AAE/mg of dry extract (methanolic extract for V. paradoxa; methanol + 1% HCl for P. biglobosa). For APM, the 97% ethanolic extracts again showed the highest total antioxidant capacities: 31.78 ± 1.481 mMol AAE/mg (V. paradoxa) and 31.21 ± 0.852 mMol AAE/mg (P. biglobosa). The stem bark extracts of both V. paradoxa and P. biglobosa were revealed to be harmless in the Artemia salina as well as the rat model. The extracts of V. paradoxa as well as P. biglobosa exerted a stronger gastroprotective effect than omeprazole, a commonly used reference molecule. Conclusions: These extracts, rich in compounds exhibiting strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gastroprotective activities, surpassed omeprazole in ulcer protection in rat models. Their safety was confirmed in both Artemia salina and rodent assays. Future studies will explore their immunomodulatory, antiproliferative activities in vitro and in vivo and, specifically, the efficacy of isolated compounds in gastric adenocarcinoma models to assess these plants’ anticancer potential and elucidate their underlying mechanisms. Full article

Ricin, a type 2 ribosome-inactivating protein, is a lethal toxin found in castor bean seeds. Although the systemic toxicity of ricin has been extensively studied, its localized effect on the gastrointestinal tract remains a critical concern, particularly in the case of oral ingestion. This study investigates the cytotoxic effects of ricin on human intestinal epithelial cell lines and its impact on epithelial barrier integrity. Ricin cytotoxicity was assessed on the intestinal-derived HT29 and Caco-2 cell lines using dose– and time–response assays, while the epithelial integrity was evaluated via Trans-Epithelial Electrical Resistance (TEER) measurements in Caco-2 monolayers. Cell death was determined through flow cytometry analysis, and the protective effects of cell death inhibitors and antioxidant scavengers were investigated on ricin-intoxicated cells. Ricin showed high cytotoxicity on HT29 and Caco-2 cells, with EC₅₀ values in the nM range after 24–72 h of intoxication. Moreover, ricin strongly reduced TEER values in Caco-2 cells at 0.1–1 nM after 24 h of treatment. At a 1 nM concentration, ricin cytotoxicity can be significantly prevented by pre-incubating cells with the cell death inhibitors Z-VAD or necrostatin-1 and the antioxidant scavenger catalase, butylated hydroxyanisole or sodium pyruvate, demonstrating the involvement of apoptosis/necroptosis and oxidative stress in ricin cell death pathways and mechanisms. Full article

The increasing global prevalence of hyperuricemia (HUA), particularly among younger populations, underscores the urgent need for safe and effective dietary interventions. Monascus fungi, long utilized in East Asian food culture, ferment rice to produce red yeast rice (RYR), a functional food rich in monacolin K and Monascus pigments. Among these, Monascus yellow pigments (MYPs)—natural azaphilone compounds used as food additives and colorants—have shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic regulatory activities. However, their potential to alleviate hyperuricemia remains unexplored. This study investigates the urate-lowering and organ-protective effects of MYPs through a combination of in vitro, in vivo, and gut microbiota analyses. MYPs exhibited significant xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibitory activity, and molecular docking confirmed that monascin (MS) and ankaflavin (AK) competitively bind to the XOD active site. In a murine HUA model, MYPs significantly reduced serum uric acid (SUA) levels without causing hepatic or renal toxicity. Mechanistically, MYPs downregulated renal UA reabsorption transporters (URAT1, GLUT9) and upregulated the excretory transporter ABCG2, enhancing uric acid (UA) excretion. These findings highlight MYPs as promising food-derived bioactives with dual XOD inhibition and uricosuric effects, offering a novel nutraceutical strategy for hyperuricemia prevention and management. Full article

Certain probiotic strains have been proposed to alleviate mental health conditions, such as anxiety and stress, by modulating the gut–microbiota–brain axis through the production of metabolites like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This study evaluated kefir-derived microbial strains for their GABA-producing capacity in mono- and co-culture systems using whey as the growth substrate. Based on the screening results, two microbial consortia were selected to develop fermented whey beverages with raspberry (FWF-R1 and FWF-R2). These beverages were characterized for their technological and functional properties over 21 days of refrigerated storage and following gastrointestinal digestion. Both formulations maintained stable acidity and showed a slight increase in viscosity during storage. The microbial counts remained above 8.5 log colony-forming units/mL, with high post-digestion viability, confirming their probiotic potential. The GABA levels increased progressively during storage, reaching 2.67 mM in FWF-R1 and 4.65 mM in FWF-R2, with recovery rates of 40–45% after digestion. The total phenolic content decreased moderately during storage but increased ~5-fold after digestion; the total anthocyanins declined by up to 70%. FWF-R2 achieved higher sensory acceptability and was preferred by 58% of consumers, emerging as the most promising formulation. These findings highlight the psychobiotic potential of these beverages and support the sustainable valorization of dairy and fruit by-products. Full article

Background/Objectives: Periodontitis is a chronic infectious inflammatory disorder that affects the supporting structures of the teeth. The gingival epithelium plays a crucial role as a physical and immunological barrier, producing pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to microbial pathogens. Modulation of gingival epithelial function has been proposed as a therapeutic strategy to prevent the progression of periodontal disease. Houttuynia cordata, a perennial herb traditionally used in Asian medicine, is recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, with documented benefits in the cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. However, its potential therapeutic role in oral pathologies, such as periodontitis, remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of H. cordata extract on interleukin (IL)-1β-stimulated primary gingival keratinocytes (PGKs) subjected to IL-1β-induced inflammatory stress, simulating the conditions encountered during orthodontic treatment. Methods: Inflammation was induced in PGKs using IL-1β, and the impact of H. cordata extract pretreatment was assessed using quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunoblotting. Results: H. cordata extract significantly downregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-8, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 in IL-1β-stimulated PGKs without inducing cytotoxicity. Conclusions: These findings suggest that H. cordata holds promise as a preventive agent against periodontitis by attenuating inflammatory responses in gingival epithelial tissues. We believe that our findings will inform the development of prophylactic interventions to reduce periodontitis risk in patients undergoing orthodontic therapy. Full article

Objectives: Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745, a probiotic yeast, is effectively used for the treatment of acute diarrhea as well as for the prevention and treatment of traveller‘s diarrhea and diarrhea under tube feeding. The underlying mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Both antitoxic and regulatory effects on the intestinal barrier, mediated either by the yeast or yeast-derived substrates, have been discussed. Methods: To examine the effects of Saccharomyces boulardii released substrates (S.b.S) on gastrointestinal (GI) barrier function, a murine small intestinal organoid cell model under stress was used. Stress was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure or withdrawal of growth factors from cell culture medium (GF_Red). Stressed organoids were treated with S.b.S (200 µg/mL), and markers of GI barrier and inflammatory response were assessed. Results: GF_Red-induced stress was characterized by disturbances in selected tight junction (TJ) (p < 0.05), adherent junction (AJ) (p < 0.001), and mucin (Muc) formation (p < 0.01), measured by gene expressions, whereby additional S.b.S treatment was found to reverse these effects by increasing Muc2 (from 0.22 to 0.97-fold change, p < 0.05), Occludin (Ocln) (from 0.37 to 3.5-fold change, p < 0.0001), and Claudin (Cldn)7 expression (from 0.13 ± 0.066-fold change, p < 0.05) and by decreasing Muc1, Cldn2, Cldn5, and junctional adhesion molecule A (JAM-A) expression (all p < 0.01). Further, S.b.S normalized expression of nucleotide binding oligomerization domain (Nod)2- (from 44.5 to 0.51, p < 0.0001) and matrix metalloproteinase (Mmp)7-dependent activation (from 28.3 to 0.02875 ± 0.0044 ** p < 0.01) of antimicrobial peptide defense and reduced the expression of several inflammatory markers, such as myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (Myd88) (p < 0.01), tumor necrosis factor α (Tnfα) (p < 0.01), interleukin (IL)-6 (p < 0.01), and IL-1β (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our data provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms by which Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745-derived secretome attenuates inflammatory responses and restores GI barrier function in small intestinal organoids. Full article