Search Results (872)

Constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder that significantly impairs quality of life. While pharmacological agents such as loperamide are widely used to induce constipation in experimental models, there is increasing interest in natural alternatives for alleviating intestinal dysfunction. In this study, we investigated the laxative effects of soybean powder fermented by Bacillus subtilis DKU_09 in a loperamide-induced rat model of constipation. The probiotic strain was isolated from cheonggukjang, a traditional Korean fermented soybean paste, and its identity was confirmed through 16S rRNA sequencing. Fermented soybean powder was characterized morphologically via scanning electron microscopy and chemically via HPLC to assess its isoflavone content. Rats were administered loperamide (5 mg/kg) for four days to induce constipation and were then treated with fermented soybean powder at doses of 100, 200, or 300 mg/kg. No pharmacological laxatives (e.g., PEG) were used as a positive control; instead, values from the treatment groups were compared with those from the loperamide-only constipation group. Key outcomes of fecal output, water content, colonic fecal retention, and gastrointestinal transit ratio were measured. The fermented product significantly improved stool frequency and moisture content, reduced colonic fecal retention, and restored gastrointestinal transit in a dose-dependent manner. Notably, the 300 mg/kg group demonstrated nearly complete recovery of fecal parameters without affecting body weight. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test. These findings suggest that Bacillus subtilis-fermented soybean powder exerts synergistic laxative effects through the combined action of probiotic viability and fermentation-enhanced bioactive compounds such as aglycone isoflavones. This study supports the potential use of fermented soybean-based nutraceuticals as a natural and safe intervention for constipation and gastrointestinal dysregulation. Full article

Pistachio nuts are among the 50 best foods with the highest antioxidant potential. They have a balanced content of mono- (~70%) and polyunsaturated (~20%) fatty acids, minerals, and bioactive compounds such as tocopherols, phytosterols, and phenolic compounds, which have shown rapid accessibility in the stomach. Pistachio consumption provides several health benefits, primarily due to its antioxidant properties and high content of essential nutrients. In this study, we analyzed the mineral composition, total phenolic content (TP), antioxidant activity (AA), and UHPLC/MS-MS polyphenolic profile of three Argentinian pistachio crops. Additionally, the physicochemical parameters and the elemental profiles of the growing soils were determined, as they influence mineral uptake and the synthesis of bioactive compounds in pistachio kernels. The TP was not significantly modified by the growing soils, with Crop3 presenting the highest TP content (276 ± 14 mg GA/100 g DW). Crop3 exhibited 18% higher TP content compared to Crop2. Similarly, FRAP values ranged from 28.0 to 36.5 mmol TE/100 g DW, with Crop1 showing a 30% increase compared to Crop2. DPPH values varied from 19.0 to 24.3 mmol TE/100 g DW, with Crop1 displaying 28% higher activity than Crop2. However, the polyphenolic profile was similar for all crops analyzed. Thirty compounds were identified; only Crop 1 contained the flavanone eriodyctiol and the isoflavone genistein, while the flavanone naringenin and the flavone luteolin were identified in Crop1 and Crop3. Regarding mineral content, the pistachio kernels mainly contained K, Ca, and Mg. Multivariate analyses revealed distinct elemental and antioxidant profiles among crops. LDA achieved classification accuracies of 77.7% for soils and 74.4% for kernels, with Pb, Zn, Cu, Rb, Sr, and Mn as key discriminants. CCA confirmed strong soil–kernel mineral correlations (r = 1), while GPA showed higher congruence between antioxidant traits and kernel composition than with soil geochemistry. These findings underscore the importance of soil composition in determining the nutritional quality of pistachio kernels, thereby supporting the beneficial health effects associated with pistachio consumption. Full article

Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is a disease caused by the deposition of transthyretin-derived fibrils in the body. Despite extensive research conducted over the years, there are currently only four drugs available in clinical use to treat this condition, two of which are repurposed drugs used off-label. However, these treatments present several limitations; therefore, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic options. In this context, dietary supplements containing natural compounds capable of stabilizing the transthyretin (TTR) protein could represent a promising approach to contrast the disease progression, potentially supporting the therapeutic effects of the aforementioned drugs. In light of this, the present review highlights and analyzes the natural compounds that have most recently been reported in the literature as TTR stabilizers. In particular, the studies elucidating the potential of these compounds in the treatment of ATTR, along with the available crystallographic data explaining their binding mode to TTR, are reported. Overall, although the use of natural compounds as supplements shows promise in managing ATTR, further research is still needed to explore its feasibility and confirm its effectiveness. Hopefully, this work will help shed light on these issues and serve as a useful starting point for the development of new strategies to treat this disease. Full article

Isoflavones are the main phenolic compounds of soybean that affect its biological activity. The quantity of these valuable compounds extracted from plant material can significantly vary, influenced by the chosen extraction method and the specific extractants employed. Moreover, in cosmetics and pharmacy, the application of non-toxic, eco-friendly solvents is very important. This study aimed to develop the best mixture of extractants to maximize the recovery of individual isoflavones from soybean seeds by optimization of the proportion of three components: ethanol, water, and propanediol. The design of experiments (DOE) method was strategically employed. The extracts were obtained through accelerated solvent extraction and meticulously analyzed for isoflavone content using advanced electrospray ionization–time of flight–mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF-MS) profiling. The predominant isoflavones were daidzin, genistin, malonylgenistin, malonyldaidzin, and malonylglycitin. Our experiment demonstrated that employing three extractants in a balanced 1:1:1 v/v/v ratio resulted in the highest isolation of isoflavones compared to all other mixtures tested. Nevertheless, a detailed exploration of approximate values and utility profiles revealed a more effective composition for extraction efficiency. This optimal mixture features 32.8% ethanol, 39.2% water, and 27.8% propanediol, maximizing the yield of isoflavones from soybean seeds. The innovative use of mixture design and triangular response surfaces has proven to be a powerful approach for developing this superior three-component extraction mixture. This innovative approach not only enhances extraction efficiency but also paves the way for improved processing methods in the industry. Full article

This study aimed to explore the effects of dietary supplementation with soy isoflavones (SI) in the later stages of pregnancy on the antioxidant capacity of sows and intestinal health of newborn piglets. Forty sows with similar body weights and parity (average of 1–2 parity) were randomly divided into two groups (n = 20): the control group and SI group (dose: 100 mg/kg of feed). Feeding was started on day 85 of gestation and continued until farrowing. SI supplementation significantly increased the antioxidant levels in the serum of the sows and newborn piglets, placental tissue, and the intestinal tract of the piglets. This observation was indicated by a decreased activity of the oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA); increased activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase; and enhanced total antioxidant capacity. The organ indices of the intestine and liver and the villus height/crypt depth of the jejunum of newborn piglets significantly increased. SI supplementation activated the Nrf2 signaling pathway in the jejunum of neonatal piglets and the expression of placental antioxidant proteins, and it downregulated the expression of the Bax and Caspase 3 apoptotic proteins in the placenta and neonatal piglets. Intestinal and placental barrier integrity was strengthened. For example, ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin 1 exhibited elevated expression. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with SI enhanced the antioxidant capacity of sows and piglets and improved the health of the placenta and intestinal tract of newborn piglets. Full article

Thai fermented soybeans (TFSs) contain phytochemicals with anti-diabetic benefits. In this study, an initial non-optimized TFS extract (TFSE) was prepared using a conventional triplicate 80% ethanol extraction method and evaluated for its biological activity. TFSE effectively reversed TNF-α-induced insulin resistance in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by enhancing insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, indicating anti-diabetic potential. TFSE also upregulated the phosphorylation of AKT (a key insulin signaling mediator) and the expression of adipogenic proteins (PPARγ, CEBPα) in TNF-α-exposed 3T3-L1, suggesting the mitigation of adipocyte dysfunction; however, the results did not reach statistical significance. The conventional extraction process was labor-intensive and time-consuming, and to enhance extraction efficiency and bioactivity, the process was subsequently optimized using environmentally friendly microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) in combination with the Box–Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). The optimized extract (O-TFSE) was obtained over a significantly shorter extraction time and exhibited higher levels of total flavonoids and antioxidant activity in comparison to TFSE, while showing reduced levels of isoflavones (daidzein, genistein, and glycitein) in relation to TFSE. Interestingly, O-TFSE retained similar efficacy in reversing TNF-α-induced insulin resistance and demonstrated significantly stronger α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities, indicating its enhanced potential for diabetes management. These results support the use of MAE as an efficient method for extracting functional compounds from TFS for functional foods targeting insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Full article

Oxidative stress directly or indirectly contributes to the development and progression of various diseases; therefore, regulating oxidative stress is a promising strategy for preventing or treating these conditions. The unique substances in soybeans, soy isoflavones, notably genistein, which have a strong antioxidant capacity, are considered to regulate various signaling pathways, alleviate oxidative stress, and improve gut microbiota imbalance as well as mitochondrial dysfunction. In this literature review, we summarize the latest research on genistein, providing evidence of its development and application as a potential drug for preventing and treating five selected diseases (Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and cancers). The literature was searched using keywords that include tripartite combinations of genistein and oxidative stress, along with each of the five selected diseases, from PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar between 2014 and 2024. According to current in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials, we comprehensively discuss the therapeutic dose used to target various disease entities to achieve optimal efficacy and meet safety requirements. Moreover, considering the poor water solubility and limited bioavailability of genistein, strategies for improving its therapeutic efficacy, such as combining it with exercise, existing medications, and advanced technologies, as well as applying nanotechnology, were assessed. Therefore, this review aims to provide robust evidence for the development and application of genistein as a potential therapeutic agent or functional food for preventing and treating these diseases. Full article

Extending healthy lifespans is an important public health goal in societies with a long life expectancy. Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH), a condition associated with an age-related decrease in testosterone level, contributes to the onset of various diseases. Previously, we demonstrated that the oral ingestion of bean sprouts rich in the HASPIN inhibitor coumestrol increased blood testosterone levels in mice. In the present study, we showed that the oral ingestion of bean sprouts also led to increased blood testosterone levels in humans. These results suggested that bean sprouts, which are rich in coumestrol, have potential as a dietary intervention for the treatment of LOH. Full article

Menopause is characterized by a decline in estrogen levels, leading to symptoms such as vasomotor instability, osteoporosis, and increased cardiovascular and cognitive risk. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) remains the gold standard for managing menopausal symptoms; however, concerns regarding its long-term safety, including elevated risks of cancer and cardiovascular events, have prompted interest in alternative therapies. Phytoestrogens, particularly the isoflavones daidzein and genistein, are plant-derived compounds structurally similar to 17β-estradiol (E2) and capable of binding estrogen receptors. Found abundantly in soybeans and red clover, these compounds exhibit selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM)-like activity, favoring ERβ over ERα, which underlies their tissue-specific effects. In vitro, in silico, and in vivo studies demonstrate their ability to modulate estrogenic pathways, inhibit oxidative stress, and influence reproductive and neurological function. Clinical trials show that daidzein and genistein, especially in equol-producing individuals, can reduce vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. While results across studies vary, consistent findings support their safety and modest efficacy, particularly for women unable or unwilling to use HRT. Pharmacokinetic studies reveal moderate bioavailability and interindividual variability due to gut microbiota metabolism. At dietary levels, these compounds are generally safe, although high-dose supplementation is discouraged in individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers. Emerging evidence suggests lifelong consumption of soy-based foods may reduce cancer risk. In conclusion, daidzein and genistein represent promising, well-tolerated natural alternatives to conventional HRT, offering symptom relief and additional health benefits. Further research is warranted to optimize dosing, improve clinical outcomes, and clarify long-term safety in diverse populations, particularly with genetic variations in isoflavone metabolism. Full article

This study investigates how root color in soybeans affects isoflavone composition, rhizosphere bacterial diversity, total phenolics, total flavonoids, and antioxidant activity under a hydroponic cultivation system. Notably, soybean-brown roots (SBRs) accumulated significantly higher contents of isoflavones, exhibiting approximately a 14.9-fold increase in total glycosides (141.75 to 2121.59 µg/g), 7.3-fold increase in total malonyl-β-glycosides (127.52 to 930.45 µg/g), 2.8-fold increase in total aglycones (1825.90 to 5145.21 µg/g), and 3.9-fold increase in total isoflavones (2095.16 to 8197.26 µg/g) than soybean-white roots (SWRs). Isolated rhizosphere bacteria profiling revealed γ-Proteobacteria as the predominant class in both root types, constituting 77.6% and 73.9% of the bacterial community in SWRs and SBRs, respectively. However, SBRs supported a more diverse bacterial ecosystem, harboring thirteen genera compared to only eight genera in SWRs. Enhanced total phenolics, total flavonoids, and radical scavenging activity were also associated with the SBRs. These findings shed light on the dynamic interplay between root traits, bacterial interactions, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis in hydroponically grown soybeans. This work not only advances our understanding of plant root–microbiome–metabolite relationships but also offers a novel approach to exploring the potential of enhancing secondary metabolites in soybean plants through precision cultivation. Full article

Skeletal muscle atrophy is a debilitating condition characterized by the loss of muscle mass and function. It is commonly associated with aging, chronic diseases, disuse, and prolonged glucocorticoid therapy. Oxidative stress and catabolic signaling pathways play significant roles in the progression of muscle degradation. Despite its clinical relevance, few effective therapeutic options are currently available. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of an ethanolic extract of Glycine Semen Preparata (GSP), i.e., fermented black soybeans, using in vitro and in vivo models of dexamethasone (Dexa)-induced muscle atrophy. In C2C12 myoblasts and myotubes, GSP significantly attenuated both oxidative stress-induced and Dexa-induced damages by reducing reactive oxygen species levels and by suppressing the expression of the muscle-specific E3 ubiquitin ligases MuRF1 and Atrogin-1. Moreover, GSP upregulated key genes involved in muscle regeneration (Myod1 and Myog) and mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC1α), indicating its dual role in muscle protection and regeneration. Oral administration of GSP to mice with Dexa-induced muscle atrophy resulted in improved muscle fiber integrity, increased proportion of large cross-sectional area fibers, and partial recovery of motor function. Isoflavone aglycones, such as daidzein and genistein, were identified as active compounds that contribute to the beneficial effects of GSP through antioxidant activity and gene promoter enhancement. Thus, GSP is a promising nutraceutical that prevents or mitigates muscle atrophy by targeting oxidative stress and promoting myogenesis and mitochondrial function. Further studies are warranted to standardize the bioactive components and explore their clinical applications. Full article

(1) Background: Our study investigates the green synthesis of Ag₂O/Ag nanoparticles using the isoflavone Puerarin as a bioreductor. (2) Methods: The PUE@Ag₂O/Ag nanoparticles were characterized using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), electronic microscopy (TEM, SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Biological activities were assessed through antimicrobial testing, cytotoxicity assays on human keratinocytes and melanoma cells, and an in ovo screening using the HET-CAM assay. (3) Results: The formation of crystalline Ag₂O/Ag nanoparticles with sizes below 100 nm was accomplished with Puerarin. Despite their high cytotoxicity at all tested concentrations, the nanoparticles showed antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ 981.5 ± 94.2 μg/mL, antibacterial activity against several clinically relevant nosocomial strains (Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and no local irritant effects or inhibition of angiogenesis in the HET-CAM assay. (4) Conclusions: This study provides insights into the synthesis, characterization, and biological profile of PUE@Ag₂O/Ag nanoparticles for potential biomedical applications. Full article

Plant polyphenols have emerged as potent bioactive molecules that can modulate key cellular pathways associated with aging and chronic disorders. The Mediterranean diet and the traditional Japanese style of life are rich in polyphenol-containing foods and beverages, and epidemiological evidence links these dietary patterns to increased longevity and reduced morbidity. This narrative review examines the chemical description of plant polyphenols, their mechanisms of action, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hormetic effects, and how supplementation or a diet rich in these compounds may provide further life extension. We discuss the major classes of polyphenols present in the Mediterranean dietary pattern (e.g., resveratrol and hydroxytyrosol) and in the Japanese diet (e.g., epigallocatechin gallate and soy isoflavones), comparing their biological behaviors and cooperative effects on metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative conditions. We also examine a few preclinical and clinical studies that explain the beneficial impact of these chemicals on aging-associated biomarkers. Furthermore, both dietary habits are characterized by low consumption of processed foods and sugary carbonated drinks and reduced utilization of deep-frying with linoleic acid-rich oils, a practice that reduces the formation of harmful lipid peroxidation products, notably 4-hydroxynonenal, known to be implicated in accelerating the aging process. The Mediterranean dietary pattern is also characterized by a low/moderate daily consumption of wine, mainly red wine. This work debates emerging evidence addressing issues of bioavailability, dosage optimization, and formulation technologies for polyphenol supplementation, also comparing differences and similarities with the vegan and vegetarian diets. We also explore how these chemicals could modulate epigenetic modifications that affect gene expression patterns pertinent to health and aging. In conclusion, we aim to show a consolidated framework for the comprehension of how plant polyphenols could be utilized in nutritional strategies for potentiating life expectancy while stimulating further research on nutraceutical development. Full article

Black soybean is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent several degenerative diseases, but in the Western diet, it is poorly used, despite the interest in foods rich in bioactive compounds. This study aimed to formulate a black soybean yogurt (BSY) fermented by a probiotic culture of L. acidophilus and evaluate the nutritional and bioactive profiles, the total antioxidant capacity, and complementary parameters during fermentation and storage for one month. We also evaluated the potential for acceptance by Rio de Janeiro consumers (n = 103). The final BSY water content was 92.8%. The dry matter contained 50.2% protein, 20.1% lipid, 5.9% ashes, 23.8% carbohydrates, and other constituents, including 1% sucrose, 5.9% α-galactosides, 26.9 mg/100 g anthocyanins (mainly cyanidin-3-glucoside), 140.5mg/100 g isoflavones (mainly genistin and daidzin). Titratable acidity was 0.44% and pH 4.5. In the sensory test, 12% sucrose and fruit extracts (strawberry, prune, and grape) were added individually to the product to evaluate the acceptability. The sweetened strawberry extract offered the highest acceptability, with a 7.6 score in a nine-point hedonic scale, against a 5.6 of the sweetened control with no fruit extract. Furthermore, all products scored well in the clusters with assessors who consumed soy products often and daily (total n = 26), with the strawberry-flavored one scoring, on average, 8 or 9. One month storage at 8 ± 2 °C caused a 22% decrease in the anthocyanins content and no significant change in isoflavones, titratable acidity, and pH. Fermentation and the addition of a sweetened fruit extract proved to be promising tools to increase the consumption of black soy milk in the West. Full article

Black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa; BC) pomace represents an excellent source of compounds with health-promoting properties. This study investigated the contribution of ultrasound treatment to the recovery of phenolic compounds in comparison with conventional extraction, using water and ethanol solvents. The ultrasound amplitude was tested between 20% and 60%, for 10 min, with the highest concentrations of total polyphenols and antioxidant activity being measured at a 30% amplitude. Ultrasound treatment was able to reduce the extraction time for the efficient recovery of antioxidants, from 24 h as required in conventional extraction to several minutes while using lower amplitudes. Regardless of the ultrasound extraction conditions, the ethanolic extracts provided higher content of antioxidants compared to water extracts. The chromatographic analysis highlighted the presence of 48 bioactive compounds, including phenolic acids, isoflavones, flavones, flavanones, proanthocyanidins, flavonols and terpenes. BC extracts showed potential to inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, the potential mechanism associated with the antibacterial activity was revealed after performing molecular docking tests involving, as receptors, essential proteins for the survival and colonization functions of E. coli and S. aureus. Full article