Search Results (302)

A dietary supplement, trans-resveratrol and hesperetin (tRES+HESP)—also known as GlucoRegulate—induces increased expression of glyoxalase 1 (Glo1) by activation of transcription factor Nrf2, countering accumulation of the reactive dicarbonyl glycating agent, methylglyoxal. tRES+HESP corrected insulin resistance and decreased fasting and postprandial plasma glucose and low-grade inflammation in overweight and obese subjects in a clinical trial. The aim of this study was to explore, for the first time, health-beneficial gene expression other than Glo1 induced by tRES+HESP in human endothelial cells and fibroblasts in primary culture and HepG2 hepatoma cell line and activity of cis-resveratrol (cRES) as a Glo1 inducer. We measured antioxidant response element-linked gene expression in these cells in response to 5 µM tRES+HESP by the NanoString method. tRES+HESP increases gene expression linked to the prevention of dicarbonyl stress, lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, proteotoxicity and hyperglycemia-linked glycolytic overload. Downstream benefits were improved regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism and decreased inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling and senescence markers. The median effective concentration of tRES was ninefold lower than cRES in the Glo1 inducer luciferase reporter assay. The GlucoRegulate supplement provides a new treatment option for the prevention of type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease and supports healthy aging. Full article

Background/Objectives: Fatty acids, the building blocks of lipids, contribute to numerous crucial life processes and are implicated in numerous disease pathologies. Circulating fatty acids can be extracted/trans-esterified to their respective methyl ester forms and quantified from a variety of biological samples. This study aims to identify quantifiable fatty acids (through alkali trans-esterification) in human circulation, assess the correlation of the detectable fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) compounds between whole blood, serum and plasma matrices and propose the most ideal matrix for quantification of FAMEs. Methods: This anonymised study was carried out in a tertiary hospital after obtaining ethical approval and involved analysis of residual fasting whole blood, serum and plasma samples obtained from 20 apparently healthy subjects attending the routine health check services at the study centre. Fatty acids were converted to its methyl ester form by methanolic KOH trans-esterification and subjected to GCMS analysis. Paired t test, Pearsons’s correlation, linear regression and Bland Altman test were employed to assess the agreeability between matrices. Results: 9 out of 37 FAME compounds were detected in all three matrices. Strong correlations and statistically significant regression equations were obtained for the 9 compounds between plasma and serum matrices. Undecanoate, pentadecanoate, linolenate, and palmitate levels were lowest in plasma, while stearate, heptadecanoate levels were highest in whole blood. Myristate was highest in serum, dodecanoate was highest in plasma while docosahexanoate was found to be comparable in all three matrices. Methyl ester forms of dodeconate, myristate, pentadecanoate, palmitate, heptadecanoate, stearate, and linolenate were observed in higher concentrations in plasma when compared to serum. Conclusions: The current study shows similar & correlating FAME concentrations between serum and plasma matrix; however, whole blood FAME concentrations appear significantly different. Plasma serves as the most ideal matrix for detection and quantification of circulating fatty acids. Full article

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its progressive form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), are growing global health concerns. However, pharmacological therapies for MASLD/MASH have not yet been established. Dietary interventions and their bioactive components have been explored as strategies to mitigate MASLD and MASH progression. Although specific nutrients and bioactive compounds have exhibited potential therapeutic benefits, they also exacerbate adverse outcomes. In this comprehensive review, we synthesize the protective and exacerbating or sometimes dual effects of key macronutrients, including fatty acids (saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats) and carbohydrates (fructose, glucose, and sucrose), and bioactive compounds and micronutrients, in the context of MASLD management. The evidence suggests that coffee-derived compounds, such as caffeine and chlorogenic acid, may attenuate liver injury. However, the effects on MASLD severity are inconsistent. Diets high in saturated fatty acids exacerbate MASLD pathogenesis, whereas moderate intake (7–10% of total energy) may confer metabolic benefits. Other bioactive compounds and micronutrients have been explored for their diverse roles in hepatic lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Although current evidence supports the therapeutic potential of specific dietary nutrients and bioactive compounds in the management of MASLD, inconsistencies in results highlight the need for more robust, well-controlled studies, including clinical trials, to clarify the preventive and therapeutic standards for balanced food interventions in MASLD management. In particular, well-designed clinical trials are necessary before clinical application. Although this is a narrative review and the literature retrieval may be biased, we covered a wide variety of substances. Full article

The removal of partially hydrogenated fats, as well as the substitution of saturated fats with healthier alternatives, has become increasingly common due to their well-established association with adverse health effects. As a result, the demand for alternative formulations in the food industry has driven the development of a promising emerging technology: oleogels. Oleogels are a semi-solid material made by trapping liquid oil within a three-dimensional network formed by structuring agents. Within this context, this study aimed to develop and characterize margarines prepared with oleogels formulated from extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, starch, and beeswax at varying concentrations. The proposed oleogel-based formulations exhibited a high melting temperature range and lower enthalpy. Although lipid oxidation levels differed between the commercial and oleogel-based margarines, they remained within acceptable limits. A significant difference in color was observed, with the oleogel formulations imparting a slight greenish hue compared to the commercial margarine. In terms of microstructure, the commercial margarine presented smaller and more uniformly distributed water droplets. Oleogel-based margarines demonstrated technological feasibility. Considering consumers’ growing interest in food innovation and health-conscious products, olive oil-based oleogel margarines represent a promising alternative, particularly due to the nutritional benefits associated with olive oil. Full article

Background/Objectives: High-fat-diet (HFD) consumption drives chronic liver injury via gut dysbiosis and metabolic disturban. Apple cider vinegar, rich in polyphenols and organic acids, shows potential in metabolic regulation. This study aimed to investigate whether apple cider vinegar powder (ACVP) alleviates HFD-induced liver injury by modulating the gut–liver axis. Methods: For 12 weeks, C57BL/6 J mice received daily ACVP gavage while being fed a HFD. A series of biological assessments were conducted, including systemic metabolic evaluations (body weight, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT)/aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and lipid/glucose levels), hepatic steatosis (hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining), intestinal microbiome characterization (16S rRNA gene genomic analysis), and comprehensive metabolite profiling of cecal contents (non-targeted metabolomics). Pearson correlation networks integrated multi-omics data. Results: ACVP attenuated HFD-induced weight gain by 26.3%, hepatomegaly and dyslipidemia, as well as reduced hepatic lipid vacuoles and serum ALT (48%)/AST (21.5%). ACVP restored gut microbiota diversity, enriching Muribaculaceae. Cecal metabolomics identified 38 HFD-perturbed metabolites reversed by ACVP, including indolelactate, hyocholate, and taurocholic acid. the Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed ACVP-mediated recovery of linoleic acid metabolism. Correlation networks linked Akkermansia to anti-inflammatory metabolites (e.g., trans-ferulic), while Desulfobacterota correlated with pro-inflammatory oxylipins (e.g., 12,13-dihydroxy-9Z-octadecenoic acid (DHOME)). Conclusions: ACVP mitigates HFD-induced liver injury by remodeling gut microbiota, restoring microbial metabolites, and enhancing gut–liver crosstalk. Full article

Thermal-processed foods like baked, smoked, and fried products are popular for their unique aroma, taste, and color. However, thermal processing can generate various contaminants via Maillard reaction, lipid oxidation, and thermal degradation, negatively impacting human health. This review summarizes the formation pathways, influencing factors, and tracing approaches of potential hazards in thermally processed foods, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs), furan, acrylamide (AA), trans fatty acids (TFAs), advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), sterol oxide. The formation pathways are explored through understanding high free radical activity and multiple active intermediates. Control patterns are uncovered by adjusting processing conditions and food composition and adding antioxidants, aiming to inhibit hazards and enhance the safety of thermal-processed foods. Full article

RNA-based cancer vaccines have emerged as transformative immunotherapeutic platforms, leveraging advances in mRNA technology and personalized medicine approaches. Recent clinical breakthroughs, particularly the success of mRNA-4157 combined with pembrolizumab in melanoma patients, have demonstrated significant improvements in efficacy, with a 44% reduction in recurrence risk compared to checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy. Breakthrough results from pancreatic cancer vaccines and novel glioblastoma treatments using layered nanoparticle delivery systems mark 2024–2025 as a pivotal period for RNA cancer vaccine development. Current RNA vaccine platforms include conventional mRNA, self-amplifying RNA, trans-amplifying RNA, and emerging circular RNA technologies, with over 120 clinical trials currently underway across various malignancies. Critical advances in delivery optimization include next-generation lipid nanoparticles with tissue-specific targeting and novel nanoengineered systems achieving rapid immune system reprogramming. Manufacturing innovations focus on automated platforms, reducing production timelines from nine weeks to under four weeks for personalized vaccines, while costs remain challenging at over $ 100,000 per patient. Artificial intelligence integration is revolutionizing neoantigen selection through advanced algorithms and CRISPR-enhanced platforms, while regulatory frameworks are evolving with new FDA guidance for therapeutic cancer vaccines. Non-coding RNA applications, including microRNA and long non-coding RNA therapeutics, represent emerging frontiers with potential for enhanced immune modulation. With over 60 candidates in clinical development and the first commercial approvals anticipated by 2029, RNA cancer vaccines are positioned to become cornerstone therapeutics in personalized oncology, offering transformative hope for cancer patients worldwide. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dietary guidelines recommend limiting trans fatty acid (TFA) intake to avoid adverse health effects. However, the impact of TFA intake in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the levels of TFAs in plasma and erythrocyte membrane lipids of young diabetic patients and healthy controls. Methods: Data were re-analyzed from three case-control studies including diabetic children (n = 40, mean age: 12.0 years), diabetic young adults (n = 34, mean age: 21.8 years), and children with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA, n = 9, mean age: 16.0 years). In these studies, TFA data were quantified by gas chromatography, but data have not yet been published. Results: Diabetic young adults and diabetic children had significantly lower TFAs in plasma lipids compared to healthy controls (sum of TFA in plasma sterol esters: 0.54 [0.34] versus 0.64 [0.37] and 0.51 [0.13] versus 0.65 [0.29], %, median [interquartile range], p < 0.05). However, children with DKA had significantly higher TFA levels in almost all plasma lipid fractions than the other two diabetic groups. Several negative correlations were observed between TFA and n-3 and n-6 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid levels in all groups, especially in the erythrocyte membrane lipid fractions. However, in the plasma fractions the correlation was less clear; both positive and negative correlations were found in each of the groups studied. Conclusions: Lower TFA values in young adults and children with diabetes may be associated with dietary patterns lower in TFAs, while elevated TFA values in DKA may be linked to challenges in adherence to dietary guidelines. Full article

As a potential raw material with a variety of bioactive compounds, Pu-erh raw tea can produce rich flavor and health benefits through natural fermentation or microbial fermentation in traditional processing. However, the traditional fermentation process has some problems such as a long fermentation period and unstable quality. Monascus, a kind of fungus used in both medicine and food, has been proved to have many beneficial effects such as lowering cholesterol and regulating blood lipids. Therefore, in this study we investigated whether the fermentation of mixed monascus could significantly improve the flavor quality and lipid-lowering activity of Pu-erh raw tea. We added four kinds of monascus to unfermented Pu-erh raw tea (UT) to obtain a fermented Pu-erh raw tea (FT). The quality of the two tea samples was determined and an in vitro lipid-lowering experiment was conducted. The results show that the contents of water extractives, flavone, trans-catechins (GCG and CG), theabrownins, and caffeine in FT are significantly higher than those in UT, increasing by 19.41%, 14.47%, 18.76%, 29.82%, and 10.67%, respectively. In terms of aroma, linalool was the characteristic compound of UT, presenting a floral note. D-Limonene was the key characteristic substance of FT, manifested as lemon, toast, and wood. In terms of taste, FT has a high content of bitter amino acids and caffeine, a low content of catechins, and is rich in carbohydrate substances, forming a characteristic mild and mellow slightly bitter taste with reduced astringency. In addition, the relative contents of active substances with lipid-lowering effects such as quercetin, quercitrin, ascorbic acid, and sorbitol in FT were higher than those in UT, increasing by 83.09%, 81.73%, 89.86%, and 92.76%, respectively. The effect of FT on regulating cellular lipid metabolism was superior to UT based on cell experiments. The research results provide a scientific basis for the deep processing and functional development of Pu-erh raw tea. Full article

Eggplants are high in polyphenols, making them a powerful antioxidant food that is beneficial for health and has excellent anti-aging effects. As metabolism slows down with aging, lipid peroxides are generated, with 2-nonenal being the main cause of old-age odor, which has a detrimental effect on skin keratinocytes. In this study, the 2-nonenal scavenging ability of fruits, leaves, stems, and roots of eggplant was evaluated, and the active compound was identified as N-trans-feruloylputrescine. Furthermore, we assessed whether the extracts and N-trans-feruloylputrescine showed a protective effect against skin damage induced by 2-nonenal. The antioxidant activity of the eggplant extracts was evaluated using DPPH and ABTS assays, and the fruits exhibited stronger antioxidant activity compared to the other extracts. Additionally, it was found that the ROS levels increased by 2-nonenal were significantly reduced by eggplant fruits and roots, which also inhibited lipid peroxidation. These results suggest the possibility of inhibiting the production of 2-nonenal itself. These findings suggest that eggplant extracts and the N-trans-feruloylputrescine can have a positive effect on preventing aging and maintaining skin health. Full article

Despite the ban of technical chlordane, contamination from this persistent organic pollutant has threatened wildlife and human health nearly forty years since its last application. The purpose of this study is to highlight the need for more systemic, broad-scale research efforts to monitor technical chlordane in wildlife sentinel species in urban settings to understand the nature and extent of pesticide pollution and mitigate risk associated with exposure to these compounds. This study presents an unusual finding of neurotoxicosis and elevated chlordane metabolite concentrations in Michigan striped skunks in the absence of other viral or toxic etiologies. In this study, eight of seventeen skunks displaying illness and neurologic signs had brain tissue concentrations of combined oxychlordane, heptachlor epoxide, and trans-nonachlor exceeding the 1000 ng/g wet weight diagnostic threshold for toxicosis. Liver tissue concentrations were ten-fold greater than those of the brain when measured on a lipid weight basis, which can help predict lethal brain residues in skunks. The ongoing presence of chlordane in the environment is expected to cause further unintended consequences for wildlife across the Detroit Metropolitan Area for decades to come. Together, veterinary toxicologists, wildlife biologists, environmental toxicologists, ecologists, and policy makers must utilize a One Health transdisciplinary approach and continue to evaluate the long-term effects of chlordane exposure. As with other pollutants in the River Rouge and River Raisin Areas of Concern, the presence of chlordane in the urban environment presents a significant risk for animal, human, and ecological health. Full article

In this study, the impacts of water-bath reheating (WR), steam reheating (SR), air-frying reheating (AR), roasting reheating (RR), and microwave reheating (MR) on the physicochemical properties, oxidation, and flavor profiles of crispy chicken (CC) were investigated. The results revealed that the pH of CC was significantly reduced after reheating (p < 0.05). The AR samples had a slight change in L* and the highest springiness. The RR samples had the highest degree of lipid and protein oxidation. In addition, WR, AR, RR, and MR treatments effectively increased the contents of umami-related amino acids. Glu and Cys were typically the taste-active amino acids in CC. AR contributed to increasing the response values of umami and richness. As shown by the electronic nose and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, 41 volatile compounds were obtained in CC. AR could efficiently increase the contents of nitrogen oxides and methyl compounds. Meanwhile, the content of trans-.alpha.-bergamotene, nonanal, and copaene were significantly increased after the AR process (p < 0.05). According to the results of analysis of variance (ANOVA), odor activity value (OAV), and variable importance in projection (VIP), anethole was considered the key differential flavor-active compound. Overall, AR was superior to other reheating methods in CC, with better texture and various flavor characteristics. This study provides a reference for choosing reheating technology for pre-cooked chicken products. Full article

Embryo rice, as a product of processing rice, improves palatability and retains the nutritional characteristics of brown rice. However, the storage period of embryo rice is only 30 d at room temperature. To delay the deterioration in the quality of embryo rice during storage, this study used polyethylene terephthalate/aluminum foil/polyethylene (PET/AL/PE) to vacuum-package embryo rice, and analyzed the quality changes under 25 or 4 °C storage conditions. At the same time, volatile compound analysis and transcriptomic analysis were integrated to explore the quality deterioration mechanism of embryo rice during storage. The electronic nose results showed that the odor of embryo rice changed significantly during different storage periods (p < 0.05). A total of 72 volatile compounds were identified by Headspace–Solid-Phase Micro-Extraction–Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS), with 2-pentylfuran, naphthalene, and styrene contributing the most in the early stage, and 2-hexenal, nonanal, trans-2-nonenal, and ethanol contributing more in the later stage. Correlation analysis showed that fatty acids, malondialdehyde (MDA), lipase, and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) were positively correlated with aldehydes and acids (p < 0.05), while catalase (CAT) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) were negatively correlated (p < 0.05). This was mainly because the oxidative decomposition of lipids and the weakening of antioxidant capacity would lead to the accumulation of aldehydes. In the Mantel test analysis, color had the strongest correlation with volatile compounds, followed by taste value, and finally texture. In transcriptomic analysis, lipid synthesis and metabolism were key pathways for the storage deterioration of embryo rice, and the LOX gene played an important regulatory role. These results can provide a theoretical basis for the evaluation of quality and selection of storage method of embryo rice. Full article

An emulsion gel was developed to replace animal fats in meat products while preserving desirable sensory and structural attributes. The gel was prepared by emulsifying pine nut oil and sunflower oil with whey protein concentrate (WPC) and polysaccharides (inulin and carrageenan). Process parameters, including the inulin-to-water ratio, homogenization speed, and temperature, were optimized to achieve stable gels exhibiting high water- and fat-binding capacities. Scanning electron micrographs revealed a cohesive network containing uniformly dispersed lipid droplets, with carrageenan promoting a denser matrix. Chemical assessments demonstrated a notably lower saturated fatty acid content (10.85%) and only 0.179% trans-isomers, alongside an elevated proportion (71.17%) of polyunsaturated fatty acids. This fatty acid profile suggests potential cardiovascular health benefits compared with conventional animal fats. Texture analyses showed that carrageenan increased gel strength and hardness; Experiment 4 recorded values of 15.87 N and 279.62 N, respectively. Incorporation of WPC at moderate levels (3–4%) further enhanced the yield stress, reflecting a robust protein–polysaccharide network. These findings indicate that the developed emulsion gel offers a viable alternative to animal fats in meat products, combining superior nutritional attributes with acceptable textural properties. The substantial polyunsaturated fatty acid content and minimal trans-isomers, coupled with the gel’s mechanical stability, support the feasibility of creating reduced-fat, functional formulations that align with consumer demands for healthier alternatives. Full article

GABA (γ-Aminobutyric Acid), a well-established inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, has garnered considerable interest for its potential role in diabetes management, particularly due to its presence in pancreatic islets. This review aims to explore the therapeutic role of GABA in diabetes management and its potential mechanisms for antidiabetic effects. Relevant studies were searched across databases such as PubMed and ScienceDirect, applying strict eligibility criteria focused on GABA administration methods and diabetic models. The collective results showed that the administration of GABA in diabetic models resulted in remarkable enhancements in glucose and insulin homeostasis, favorable modifications in lipid profiles, and amelioration of dysfunctions across neural, hepatic, renal, and cardiac systems. The findings from the literature demonstrated that GABAergic signaling within pancreatic tissues can significantly contribute to the stimulation of β cell proliferation through the facilitation of a sustained trans-differentiation process, wherein glucagon-secreting α cells are converted into insulin-secreting β-like cells. In addition, activated GABAergic signaling can trigger the initiation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway within pancreatic tissues, leading to improved insulin signaling and maintained glucose homeostasis. GABAergic signaling can further function within hepatic tissues, promoting inhibitory effects on the expression of genes related to gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis. Moreover, GABA may enhance gut microbiota diversity by attenuating gut inflammation, attributable to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Furthermore, the neuroprotective effects of GABA play a significant role in ameliorating neural disorders associated with diabetes by facilitating a substantial reduction in neuronal apoptosis. In conclusion, GABA emerges as a promising candidate for an antidiabetic agent; however, further research is highly encouraged to develop a rigorously designed framework that comprehensively identifies and optimizes the appropriate dosages and intervention methods for effectively managing and combating diabetes. Full article