Potential role of carotenoids as antioxidants in human health and disease

The role of carotenoids in bone health-A narrative review

Osteoporosis constitutes a serious challenge for public health. Dietary patterns belong to important, modifiable risk factors of this disease. Therefore, what and in what quantities we consume on a daily basis are extremely relevant. It is commonly known that bone health is positively affected by vitamins (e.g., vitamin D and vitamin K) as well as mineral components (e.g., calcium and magnesium). However, the human diet consists of many other groups of compounds that exhibit a potential antiosteoporotic and supporting bone-building effect. These dietary components include carotenoids. This paper presents a broad review of studies on the influence of particular carotenoids (β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, and lycopene) on bones. The paper discusses up-to-date in vitro experiments and research on animal models and presents how the results translate into clinical effect in humans.

Carotenoids in red fruit (Pandanus conoideus Lam.) have a potential role as an anti‑pigmentation agent (Review)

Melasma is a persistent condition characterized by excessive melanin production in the skin. The management of melasma necessitates a protracted treatment duration, which is associated with diminished levels of patient satisfaction. One effective strategy for mitigating occurrence of melasma is consumption of nutricosmetics with depigmentation properties. The present review aimed to investigate the potential of red fruit as a depigmentation agent. Carotenoids serve a crucial role in human nutrition as a precursor to vitamin A. Carotenoids serve as scavengers of reactive oxygen species generated by ultraviolet radiation. Carotenoids promote skin health. Red fruit, a fruit originating from Papua (Indonesia) has anti-pigmentation properties associated with its ability to block melanogenesis through various protein pathways such as PKA, ERK, and AKT signaling pathways. The consumption of food rich in carotenoids, such as red fruit, has advantageous properties to reduce hyperpigmentation and skin brightening.

Convective drying of Gardenia erubescens fruits: Effect of pretreatment, slice thickness and drying air temperature on drying kinetics and product quality

Gardenia erubescens fruits are regarded as nutrient-dense, capable of promoting nutritional and metabolic human health. However, they are seasonal and highly perishable which limits their consumption and wider utilization. In this study, the effect of slice thickness (3 mm and 5 mm), pretreatments (steam blanching and dipping in ascorbic acid solution) and drying air temperature (40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C and 70 °C) on drying kinetics, color, β-carotene and vitamin C content of Gardenia erubescens fruits were investigated. The results showed that the drying time increased as slice thickness increased, and decreased as drying air temperature increased but did not follow any trend for pretreatment. The Page model (R2 values of 0.9998-0.9999) exhibited the best fit to the drying kinetics data. The diffusivity values (5.31 × 10-11 to 4.14 × 10-10 m2s-1) increased as the slice thickness and drying air temperature increased but had no linear trends with pretreatment. The activation energy ranged from 14.35 to 44.78 kJmol-1, with the highest being recorded by 5 mm untreated samples and the lowest by the 3 mm blanched samples. The total color change (ΔE*) of the samples generally decreased as the drying air temperature increased but increased as the slice thickness increased. The ascorbic acid pretreated samples had the least color change, followed by the untreated samples while the blanched samples had the highest change. Overall, the 5 mm ascorbic acid pretreated samples dried at 70 °C had the least color change (13.33 ± 0.52). The blanching and dipping in ascorbic acid solution generally yielded lower β-carotene and vitamin C values as compared to the untreated samples. The 3 mm ascorbic acid pretreated samples dried at 50 °C recorded the lowest β-carotene (42.70 ± 3.21 μg/100 g) while the 5 mm ascorbic acid pretreated samples had the lowest vitamin C (37.50 ± 2.65 mg/100 g) at 70 °C. Pretreatments and drying air temperatures showed mixed effects on the drying characteristics, color, β-carotene and vitamin C contents of fruit slices. The findings, therefore, indicate that a compromise may have to be made on the aforementioned processing conditions in order to meet the desired attributes of one's interest.

Linear association of compound dietary antioxidant index with hyperlipidemia: a cross-sectional study

Background

There is growing evidence that antioxidant-rich diets may prevent hyperlipidemia. However, the relationship between the Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) and hyperlipidemia is unclear. The CDAI is a composite score reflecting the antioxidant content of an individual's diet, and this study aimed to investigate the relationship between CDAI and hyperlipidemia.

Methods

The study used the 2003-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database for cross-sectional analyses and included 27,626 participants aged 20 years and older. The CDAI, which includes vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, selenium, and carotenoids, was calculated based on dietary intake reported in a 24-h recall interview. Hyperlipidemia was defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP). Covariates included age, sex, race, education, marriage, household poverty-to-income ratio (PIR), glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), body mass index (BMI), energy, carbohydrates, total fat, cholesterol, smoking, alcohol consumption, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, and lipid-lowering medications. The association between CDAI and hyperlipidemia was explored through multiple logistic regression analyses and smoothed curve fitting. We also performed subgroup analyses and interaction tests to verify the relationship's stability.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, CDAI was negatively associated with the risk of developing hyperlipidemia (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-0.99, p < 0.01). The results of weighted regression models stratified by quartiles of CDAI (-8.664 ≤ Q1 ≤ -2.209, -2.209 < Q2 ≤ -0.002, -0.002 < Q3 ≤ 2.774, 2.774 < Q4 ≤ 124.284), fully adjusted for confounding variables, indicated that compared with the bottom quartile (Q1) of the CDAI, Q2, Q3, and Q4 of participants had a lower advantage ratio (Q2: OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.78-1.06, p < 0.21; Q3: OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.73-1.00, p < 0.05; and Q4: OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.64-0.94, p < 0.01), which was confirmed by a test for trend (p < 0.05). Smoothed curve fit analysis showed linearity (p for non-linear = 0.0912). In summary, there is a linear negative relationship between CDAI and the risk of developing hyperlipidemia. Subgroup analyses by age, sex, ethnicity, education level, marriage, tobacco status, alcoholic drinking, body mass index (BMI), hypertension, and diabetes did not indicate strong interactions.

Conclusion

In this large cross-sectional study, there was a linear negative association between CDAI and hyperlipidemia among US adults. Therefore increase antioxidant rich foods in your life as a prevention of hyperlipidemia.

New insights about endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer: pathogenesis, risk factors, prediction and diagnosis and treatment

Previous studies have shown that the risk of malignant transformation of endometriosis in premenopausal women is approximately 1%, significantly impacting the overall well-being and quality of life of affected women. Presently, the diagnostic gold standard for endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer (EAOC) continues to be invasive laparoscopy followed by histological examination. However, the application of this technique is limited due to its high cost, highlighting the importance of identifying a non-invasive diagnostic approach. Therefore, there is a critical need to explore non-invasive diagnostic methods to improve diagnostic precision and optimize clinical outcomes for patients. This review presents a comprehensive survey of the current progress in comprehending the pathogenesis of malignant transformation in endometriosis. Furthermore, it examines the most recent research discoveries concerning the diagnosis of EAOC and emphasizes potential targets for therapeutic intervention. The ultimate objective is to improve prevention, early detection, precise diagnosis, and treatment approaches, thereby optimizing the clinical outcomes for patients.

Protective role of vitamin E against acrylamide-induced testicular toxicity from pregnancy to adulthood: insights into oxidative stress and aromatase regulation

Acrylamide (ACR) is a toxic chemical frequently encountered in daily life, posing health risks. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular-level mechanism of ACR's toxic effects on testicles and investigate whether Vitamin E can mitigate these effects. A total of 40 adult pregnant rats were utilized, divided into four groups: Control, ACR, Vitamin E, and ACR + Vitamin E. ACR and Vitamin E were administered to the mother rats during pregnancy and lactation, and to the male offspring until the 8th week post-birth. Serum hormone levels, oxidant-antioxidant parameters, histopathological examination of testicular tissue, and mRNA and protein levels of the testicular and liver aromatase gene were analyzed. Spermiogram analysis was conducted on the collected sperm samples from the male offspring. The results revealed that ACR exposure adversely affected hormone levels, oxidant-antioxidant parameters, histological findings, as well as aromatase gene and protein expressions. However, Vitamin E administration effectively prevented the toxic effects of ACR. These findings demonstrate that ACR application significantly impairs the reproductive performance of male offspring rats by increasing liver aromatase activity.

Skin Protection by Carotenoid Pigments

Sunlight, despite its benefits, can pose a threat to the skin, which is a natural protective barrier. Phototoxicity caused by overexposure, especially to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), results in burns, accelerates photoaging, and causes skin cancer formation. Natural substances of plant origin, i.e., polyphenols, flavonoids, and photosynthetic pigments, can protect the skin against the effects of radiation, acting not only as photoprotectors like natural filters but as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory remedies, alleviating the effects of photodamage to the skin. Plant-based formulations are gaining popularity as an attractive alternative to synthetic filters. Over the past 20 years, a large number of studies have been published to assess the photoprotective effects of natural plant products, primarily through their antioxidant, antimutagenic, and anti-immunosuppressive activities. This review selects the most important data on skin photodamage and photoprotective efficacy of selected plant carotenoid representatives from in vivo studies on animal models and humans, as well as in vitro experiments performed on fibroblast and keratinocyte cell lines. Recent research on carotenoids associated with lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, liposomes, and micelles is reviewed. The focus was on collecting those nanomaterials that serve to improve the bioavailability and stability of carotenoids as natural antioxidants with photoprotective activity.

15-cis-Phytoene Desaturase and 15-cis-Phytoene Synthase Can Catalyze the Synthesis of β-Carotene and Influence the Color of Apricot Pulp

Fruit color affects its commercial value. β-carotene is the pigment that provides color for many fruits and vegetables. However, the molecular mechanism of β-carotene metabolism during apricot ripening is largely unknown. Here, we investigated whether β-carotene content affects apricot fruit color. First, the differences in β-carotene content between orange apricot 'JTY' and white apricot 'X15' during nine developmental stages (S1-S9) were compared. β-carotene contents highly significantly differed between 'JTY' and 'X15' from S5 (color transition stage) onwards. Whole-transcriptome analysis showed that the β-carotene synthesis genes 15-cis-phytoene desaturase (PaPDS) and 15-cis-phytoene synthase (PaPSY) significantly differed between the two cultivars during the color transition stage. There was a 5 bp deletion in exon 11 of PaPDS in 'X15', which led to early termination of amino acid translation. Gene overexpression and virus-induced silencing analysis showed that truncated PaPDS disrupted the β-carotene biosynthesis pathway in apricot pulp, resulting in decreased β-carotene content and a white phenotype. Furthermore, virus-induced silencing analysis showed that PaPSY was also a key gene in β-carotene biosynthesis. These findings provide new insights into the molecular regulation of apricot carotenoids and provide a theoretical reference for breeding new cultivars of apricot.

Raman spectroscopy and Raman optical activity of blood plasma for differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal cancers

Improving the early diagnosis of gastrointestinal cancers is a crucial step in reducing their mortality. Given the non-specificity of the initial symptoms, the ability of any diagnostic method to differentiate between various types of gastrointestinal cancers also needs to be addressed. To detect disease-specific alterations in biomolecular structure and composition of the blood plasma, we have implemented an approach combining Raman spectroscopy and its conformation-sensitive polarized version, Raman optical activity, to analyze blood plasma samples of patients suffering from three different types of gastrointestinal cancer - hepatocellular, colorectal and pancreatic. First, we aimed to discriminate any type of gastrointestinal cancer from healthy control individuals; inthenext step, the focus was on differentiating among the three cancer types studied. The more straightforward of the two statistical approaches tested, the combination of linear discriminant analysis and principal component analysis applied to the entire spectral dataset, allowed the discrimination of cancer and control samples with 87% accuracy. The three gastrointestinal cancers were classified with an overall accuracy of 76%. The second method, the linear discriminant analysis applied to a selection of spectral bands, yielded even higher values. Cancer and control samples were distinguished with 89% accuracy and hepatocellular, colorectal and pancreatic cancer with an overall accuracy of 87%. The results obtained in our study suggest that the proposed approach may become a disease-specific diagnostic tool in daily clinical practice.

Genome-wide characterization and expression analysis of MADS-box transcription factor gene family in Perilla frutescens

MADS-box transcription factors are widely involved in the regulation of plant growth, developmental processes, and response to abiotic stresses. Perilla frutescens, a versatile plant, is not only used for food and medicine but also serves as an economical oil crop. However, the MADS-box transcription factor family in P. frutescens is still largely unexplored. In this study, a total of 93 PfMADS genes were identified in P. frutescens genome. These genes, including 37 Type I and 56 Type II members, were randomly distributed across 20 chromosomes and 2 scaffold regions. Type II PfMADS proteins were found to contain a greater number of motifs, indicating more complex structures and diverse functions. Expression analysis revealed that most PfMADS genes (more than 76 members) exhibited widely expression model in almost all tissues. The further analysis indicated that there was strong correlation between some MIKCC-type PfMADS genes and key genes involved in lipid synthesis and flavonoid metabolism, which implied that these PfMADS genes might play important regulatory role in the above two pathways. It was further verified that PfMADS47 can effectively mediate the regulation of lipid synthesis in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii transformants. Using cis-acting element analysis and qRT-PCR technology, the potential functions of six MIKCC-type PfMADS genes in response to abiotic stresses, especially cold and drought, were studied. Altogether, this study is the first genome-wide analysis of PfMADS. This result further supports functional and evolutionary studies of PfMADS gene family and serves as a benchmark for related P. frutescens breeding studies.

Current applications of solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers as vehicles in oral delivery systems for antioxidant nutraceuticals: A review

Antioxidant nutraceuticals can be found in several dietary sources and have been utilized for various medical benefits including health promotion, disease prevention, and support for treatment of acute and/or chronic diseases. Nonetheless, there are some limitations in delivering antioxidants via oral administration such as low solubility and permeability, pH and enzyme degradation, and instability of the compounds along the gastrointestinal tract leading to low bioavailability. In order to tackle these challenges, the utilization of lipid nanoparticles has numerous advantages to the escalating delivery system of antioxidants in nutraceuticals across the gastrointestinal tract barrier. Nowadays, several types of lipid nanoparticles can be used in antioxidant nutraceutical delivery systems through the oral route, namely solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers. This review article aims to provide notable information on the importance and applications of lipid nanoparticles in antioxidant delivery systems from nutraceuticals by an oral route. The mechanism in enhancing antioxidant compound transport across the gastrointestinal tract can occur by elevating loading capacity, improving chemical and physical stability, and increasing its bioavailability. To date, lipid nanoparticle vehicles have been developed to improve the delivery of antioxidant compounds to enhance bioavailability via oral routes. Lipid nanoparticles have remarkable benefits in delivering antioxidant nutraceuticals via oral administration. Hence, scale-up and commercialization of antioxidant nutraceutical-loaded lipid nanoparticles have been a potential technology in recent years. Subsequently, several vegetable and natural oils with antioxidant activity can also be utilized for nanoparticle formulation lipid components to increase nutraceuticals' antioxidant properties and bioavailability.

Nutrient Composition of Indonesian Specialty Cereals: Rice, Corn, and Sorghum as Alternatives to Combat Malnutrition

Stunted growth (stunting) caused by malnutrition is a growing concern in Indonesia. The nutritional composition of cereals is important information for improving people's nutrition. This research aimed to comparatively study the nutritional values of several Indonesian local cereal crops and provide a nutritional database for promoting local food with the aim of combating malnutrition. The cereals investigated included varieties of rice, corn, and sorghum. The nutritional analysis included ash, protein, fat, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. A purposive sampling method was performed by collecting five lots from each sampling area and forming composite samples by combining 1∼2 kg of each sample, then mixed before laboratory analysis. The results showed that colored rice, colored corn and sorghum, contain richer essential nutrients, dietary fiber, and essential amino acids compared to white rice and corn. The highest protein content was found in sorghum (13.26%), followed by corn (9.18%), and rice (8.0%). The highest energy value was also found in sorghum (380.5 kcal/100 g), followed by corn (379.9 kcal/100 g), and rice (362.1 kcal/100 g). The same sequence was seen for the mineral contents, where the zinc and iron contents were 1.57 and 2.39 mg/100 g, respectively for sorghum; 1.36 and 0.79 mg/100 g for corn; and 0.93 and 0.58 mg/100 g for rice. Accordingly, it can be concluded that sorghum has the highest nutritional value and therefore potential for combating malnutrition, while corn and rice are also highly nutritious and can be grown locally in order to combat malnutrition.

Functional potential and evolutionary response to long-term heat selection of bacterial associates of coral photosymbionts

IMPORTANCE

Symbiotic microorganisms are crucial for the survival of corals and their resistance to coral bleaching in the face of climate change. However, the impact of microbe-microbe interactions on coral functioning is mostly unknown but could be essential factors for coral adaption to future climates. Here, we investigated interactions between cultured dinoflagellates of the Symbiodiniaceae family, essential photosymbionts of corals, and associated bacteria. By assessing the genomic potential of 49 bacteria, we found that they are likely beneficial for Symbiodiniaceae, through the production of B vitamins and antioxidants. Additionally, bacterial genes involved in host-symbiont interactions, such as secretion systems, accumulated mutations following long-term exposure to heat, suggesting symbiotic interactions may change under climate change. This highlights the importance of microbe-microbe interactions in coral functioning.

Preventative and therapeutic potential of tocotrienols on musculoskeletal diseases in ageing

Musculoskeletal health is paramount in an ageing population susceptible to conditions such as osteoporosis, arthritis and fractures. Age-related changes in bone, muscle, and joint function result in declining musculoskeletal health, reduced mobility, increased risk of falls, and persistent discomfort. Preserving musculoskeletal wellbeing is essential for maintaining independence and enhancing the overall quality of life for the elderly. The global burden of musculoskeletal disorders is significant, impacting 1.71 billion individuals worldwide, with age-related muscle atrophy being a well-established phenomenon. Tocotrienols, a unique type of vitamin E found in various sources, demonstrate exceptional antioxidant capabilities compared to tocopherols. This characteristic positions them as promising candidates for addressing musculoskeletal challenges, particularly in mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress underlying musculoskeletal disorders. This review paper comprehensively examines existing research into the preventive and therapeutic potential of tocotrienols in addressing age-related musculoskeletal issues. It sheds light on the promising role of tocotrienols in enhancing musculoskeletal health and overall wellbeing, emphasizing their significance within the broader context of age-related health concerns.

Fruit quality and shelf-life of Sardinian tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) landraces

The conservation and characterization of landraces have key roles in the safeguarding and valorization of agrobiodiversity. Indeed, these plant genetic resources represent an important crop heritage with quality and sensory characteristics that can be of great use to consumers and industry. In addition, the preservation of genetic resources from the risk of progressive genetic erosion, and the enhancement of their potential can contribute to food security and improve the nutritional value of food. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate a collection of Sardinian tomato landraces for parameters that have determinant roles in evaluating their responses to conservation, and therefore to consumer acceptance. Six Sardinian landraces and two commercial varieties were cultivated in a two-years off-season trial, harvested at two different maturity stages (turning, red-ripe) and characterized using 14 fruit-related quality parameters that define the marketability, nutritional value, and flavor of the fruit. Data were collected at intervals of 10 days, starting from the harvest date and over 30 days of storage under refrigeration. The simultaneous analysis of all the qualitative characteristics for the different genotypes allowed to clearly differentiate the local varieties from the commercial varieties and a few landraces emerged for their satisfactory performances, e.g. "Tamatta kaki" ad "Tamatta groga de appiccai". In particular, the "Tamatta groga de appiccai" showed satisfactory lycopene content at marketable stages (average 5.65 mg 100g-1 FF), a peculiar orange-pink color with the highest hue angle values (range: H°T0 = 72.55-H°T30 = 48.26), and the highest firmness among the landraces of the red-ripe group (range: EpT0 = 1.64-EpT30 = 0.54 N mm-1). These results highlight the potential of some of the Sardinian tomato landraces for developing new varieties or promoting their direct valorization in local markets and could considerably increase the effectiveness and efficiency of agrobiodiversity conservation strategies.

Between eustress and distress: UVB induced changes in carotenoid accumulation in halophytic Salicornia europaea

Halophytes are potential future crops with a valuable nutritional profile. Produced in indoor farming, they are considered to contribute to sustainable and resilient food systems. Indoor farms operate using artificial light. In this context narrowband and low dose UVB radiation can be used to increase plant secondary metabolites, such as carotenoids, and provide an improved nutritional profile for a human diet. UVB radiation can cause eustress or distress in the plant depending on the lighting situation. The aim of this study was to identify the doses of UVB that lead to either eustress or distress and to analyze these responses in Salicornia europaea. Therefore, S. europaea plants were exposed to different UVB radiation levels, low, medium and high, and analyzed for reactive oxygen species (ROS), plant hormones, amino acids, and photosynthetic pigments. High UVB treatment was found to affect phenotype and growth, and the metabolite profile was affected in a UVB dose-dependent manner. Specifically, medium UVB radiation resulted in an increase in carotenoids, whereas high UVB resulted in a decrease. We also observed an altered oxidative stress status and increased SA and decreased ABA contents in response to UVB treatment. This was supported by the results of menadione treatment that induces oxidative stress in plants, which also indicated an altered oxidative stress status in combination with altered carotenoid content. Thus, we show that a moderate dose of UVB can increase the carotenoid content of S. europaea. Furthermore, the UVB stress-dependent response led to a better understanding of carotenoid accumulation upon UVB exposure, which can be used to improve lighting systems and in turn the nutritional profile of future crops in indoor farming.

Carotenoids and tocols comparison in different Subspecies of Triticum turgidum and aestivum

Carotenoids and Tocols in six genotypes of Triticum turgidum ssp. durum, five of Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccum, four of Triticum aestivum ssp. aestivum, and six of Triticum aestivum ssp. spelta were investigated. The aim of the present study was to identify, quantify, and compare the content of tocopherols, tocotrienols, and carotenoids in different primitive and modern genotypes of wheat species in order to evaluate the lines with the highest content and possibly use them for selection and breeding programs. The Triticum durum group showed the highest mean content of total carotenoids, with lutein being the most abundant, accounting for 80.12 % (Triticum spelta) to 86.65 % (Triticum turgidum) of total carotenoids. Among the genotypes, Line 6 (Triticum durum) had the highest lutein content (12.17 μg g-1), significantly differing from the lines within its group and the other groups of dicoccum, aestivum, and spelta.Triticum dicoccum exhibited a lower average content of total tocols compared to other Triticum species. The tocols profile showed a prevalence of tocotrienols over tocopherols. β + γ-T3 was the most abundant individual tocol isomer in all Triticum genotypes, contributing for 50.40 % (Triticum ssp. aestivum) and 42.50 % (Triticum spelta) of the total content, respectively. The highest β + γ-T3 content (23.83 μg/g) was found in Line 6 of Triticum durum. Correlation, principal component, and cluster analyses revealed positive correlations between total tocols and β/γ tocotrienols, significant differences between various groups of the same species, formation of six clusters labeled as I to VI, and the identification of genotypes from the same species grouped in different clusters.

Lycopene attenuates silver nanoparticle-induced liver injury in albino mice

Lycopene is a carotenoid widely used for its dominant antioxidant properties and beneficial health effects. Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) have gained attention for use in many medicinal and consumer products, leading to animal, human, and environmental exposure. This study investigated the dose-dependent effects of lycopene on AgNP-induced hepatotoxicity in albino mice. The four experimental groups, comprising eight albino mice each, were as follows: Group I, vehicle control (C); Group II, AgNP-treated (5 mg/kg/day) (AgNP); Group III, AgNP/lycopene-treated (5 + 10 mg/kg/day) (AgNP + LP10); and Group IV, AgNP/lycopene-treated (5 + 100 mg/kg/day) (AgNP + LP100). All solutions were orally administered to the mice once in a day for consecutive 14 days. The levels of serum aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin were significantly higher in the AgNP-treated group than in the control group but significantly lower in the AgNP + LP100 group than in the AgNP-treated group. A significant decrease in reduced glutathione level and superoxide dismutase activity and an increase in lipid peroxidation were observed in the AgNP-treated group; these were significantly suppressed in the AgNP+LP100 as compared to AgNP-treated group. Histopathological examination showed substantial morphological alterations in hepatic tissues in the AgNP, which were adequately improved in the low and high dose lycopene-treated groups. The dose of 100 mg/kg/day of lycopene was more effective than 10 mg/kg/day, as pretreatment with high dose lycopene significantly diminished the adverse changes occurred due to AgNP in liver weight, hepatic architecture, serum functional markers, and antioxidant markers. Thus, present study shows that pretreatment with lycopene offers protection against AgNP-induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress.

Changes in Plasma Carotenoid Concentrations during the AntioxObesity Weight Reduction Program among Adults with Excessive Body Weight

Plasma carotenoid concentrations are associated with antioxidant defense which might be disturbed in people with excessive body weight (EBW). This study aimed at evaluating the effect of a 6-week weight reduction program on plasma concentration of β-carotene, lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin in adults with EBW. A total of 130 adults were recruited for the study; 75 completed the program. Data on food consumption were collected with a 3-day recording method and a semi-quantitative FFQ. Body height, body weight (BW), waist circumference (WC), fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) were measured. Lipid profile, β-carotene, lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin were analyzed in blood. The AntioxObesity program resulted in a significant reduction in BW, WC, FM, SAT, and VAT. The mean plasma concentrations of β-carotene, lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin increased significantly after intervention. A reduction in FM above 4 kg significantly increased the concentration of β-carotene, lutein/zeaxanthin, and total carotenoids. An increase in carotenoid levels correlated with FM reduction, as fruit and vegetable intake remained unchanged. However, this effect may vary due to gender, HDL-cholesterol, body fat content, and obesity status in the weight loss process.

Integrated transcriptome and metabolome analysis unveils the mechanism of color-transition in Edgeworthia chrysantha tepals

BACKGROUND

Edgeworthia chrysantha, a deciduous shrub endemic to China, is known for its high ornamental value, extensive cultivation history, and wide-ranging applications. However, theoretical research on this plant is severely lacking. While its flowering process displays striking color transitions from green (S1) to yellow (S2) and then to white (S3), the scientific exploration of this phenomenon is limited, and the underlying regulatory mechanisms are yet to be elucidated.

RESULTS

Correlation analysis between phenotypic measurements and pigment content revealed that carotenoids and chlorophyll are the key pigments responsible for the color changes. Metabolomic analysis of carotenoids demonstrated that lutein and β-carotene were present at higher levels in S1, while S2 exhibited increased diversity and quantity of carotenoids compared to other stages. Notably, antheraxanthin, zeaxanthin, lycopene, and α-cryptoxanthin showed significant increases. In S3, apart from the colorless phytoene, other carotenoid metabolites were significantly reduced to extremely low levels. Transcriptomic data indicated that PSY, Z-ISO, crtZ, ZEP, PDS and ZDS are key genes involved in carotenoid biosynthesis and accumulation, while NCED plays a crucial role in carotenoid degradation. SGR was identified as a key gene contributing to the progressive decline in chlorophyll content. Additionally, three transcription factors potentially regulating carotenoid metabolism were also identified.

CONCLUSIONS

This study represents the first systematic investigation, spanning from phenotypic to molecular levels, of the color-changing phenomenon in E. chrysantha. The study elucidates the crucial pigments, metabolites, genes, and transcription factors responsible for flower color changes during the flowering process, thereby providing preliminary understanding of the intrinsic regulatory mechanisms. These findings establish a theoretical foundation for the genetic improvement of flower color in E. chrysantha.

Bioactive Ingredients from Dairy-Based Lactic Acid Bacterial Fermentations for Functional Food Production and Their Health Effects

Lactic acid bacteria are traditionally applied in a variety of fermented food products, and they have the ability to produce a wide range of bioactive ingredients during fermentation, including vitamins, bacteriocins, bioactive peptides, and bioactive compounds. The bioactivity and health benefits associated with these ingredients have garnered interest in applications in the functional dairy market and have relevance both as components produced in situ and as functional additives. This review provides a brief description of the regulations regarding the functional food market in the European Union, as well as an overview of some of the functional dairy products currently available in the Irish and European markets. A better understanding of the production of these ingredients excreted by lactic acid bacteria can further drive the development and innovation of the continuously growing functional food market.

Proteomic characterization of a lutein-hyperaccumulating Chlamydomonas reinhardtii mutant reveals photoprotection-related factors as targets for increasing cellular carotenoid content

BACKGROUND

Microalgae are emerging hosts for the sustainable production of lutein, a high-value carotenoid; however, to be commercially competitive with existing systems, their capacity for lutein sequestration must be augmented. Previous attempts to boost microalgal lutein production have focussed on upregulating carotenoid biosynthetic enzymes, in part due to a lack of metabolic engineering targets for expanding lutein storage.

RESULTS

Here, we isolated a lutein hyper-producing mutant of the model green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and characterized the metabolic mechanisms driving its enhanced lutein accumulation using label-free quantitative proteomics. Norflurazon- and high light-resistant C. reinhardtii mutants were screened to yield four mutant lines that produced significantly more lutein per cell compared to the CC-125 parental strain. Mutant 5 (Mut-5) exhibited a 5.4-fold increase in lutein content per cell, which to our knowledge is the highest fold increase of lutein in C. reinhardtii resulting from mutagenesis or metabolic engineering so far. Comparative proteomics of Mut-5 against its parental strain CC-125 revealed an increased abundance of light-harvesting complex-like proteins involved in photoprotection, among differences in pigment biosynthesis, central carbon metabolism, and translation. Further characterization of Mut-5 under varying light conditions revealed constitutive overexpression of the photoprotective proteins light-harvesting complex stress-related 1 (LHCSR1) and LHCSR3 and PSII subunit S regardless of light intensity, and increased accrual of total chlorophyll and carotenoids as light intensity increased. Although the photosynthetic efficiency of Mut-5 was comparatively lower than CC-125, the amplitude of non-photochemical quenching responses of Mut-5 was 4.5-fold higher than in CC-125 at low irradiance.

CONCLUSIONS

We used C. reinhardtii as a model green alga and identified light-harvesting complex-like proteins (among others) as potential metabolic engineering targets to enhance lutein accumulation in microalgae. These have the added value of imparting resistance to high light, although partially compromising photosynthetic efficiency. Further genetic characterization and engineering of Mut-5 could lead to the discovery of unknown players in photoprotective mechanisms and the development of a potent microalgal lutein production system.

Multiomics analysis provides new insights into the regulatory mechanism of carotenoid biosynthesis in yellow peach peel

Carotenoids, as natural tetraterpenes, play a pivotal role in the yellow coloration of peaches and contribute to human dietary health. Despite a relatively clear understanding of the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway, the regulatory mechanism of miRNAs involved in carotenoid synthesis in yellow peaches remain poorly elucidated. This study investigated a total of 14 carotenoids and 40 xanthophyll lipids, including six differentially accumulated carotenoids: violaxanthin, neoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin, and (E/Z)-phytoene. An integrated analysis of RNA-seq, miRNA-seq and degradome sequencing revealed that miRNAs could modulate structural genes such as PSY2, CRTISO, ZDS1, CHYB, VDE, ZEP, NCED1, NCED3 and the transcription factors NAC, ARF, WRKY, MYB, and bZIP, thereby participating in carotenoid biosynthesis and metabolism. The authenticity of miRNAs and target gene was corroborated through quantitative real-time PCR. Moreover, through weighted gene coexpression network analysis and a phylogenetic evolutionary study, coexpressed genes and MYB transcription factors potentially implicated in carotenoid synthesis were identified. The results of transient expression experiments indicated that mdm-miR858 inhibited the expression of PpMYB9 through targeted cleavage. Building upon these findings, a regulatory network governing miRNA-mediated carotenoid synthesis was proposed. In summary, this study comprehensively identified miRNAs engaged in carotenoid biosynthesis and their putative target genes, thus enhancing the understanding of carotenoid accumulation and regulatory mechanism in yellow peach peel and expanding the gene regulatory network of carotenoid synthesis.

First Optimization of Tomato Pomace in Diets for Tenebrio molitor (L.) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

Tomato pomace (TP), an agricultural industrial waste product from the tomato processing industry, is valorized as a rearing substrate for Tenebrio molitor (L.). This study evaluated bran-based diets with increasing tomato pomace (0%, 27%, 41%, and 100%). Protein sources, such as brewer's spent grain and yeast, were used in TP27 and TP41 diets to ensure equal protein contents to the control diet. Results showed no different for larval and pupal weights between diets; however, the time of development significantly increases in TP100 compared to all diets. The feed conversion rate progressively increases from 2.7 to 4.3, respectively, from the control to the TP100 diet. Conversely, lycopene and β-carotene increase in the larvae. The fatty acid composition improves by increasing polyunsaturated fatty acids (mainly α-linoleic acid). Although the best nutritional quality was obtained in T100, the TP41 is the optimal diet for balance between larval performance and qualitative improvement of larvae. Therefore, tomato pomace is suitable for the formulation of mealworm diets, even in high dosages, when supplemented with sustainable protein and carbohydrate sources.

Overexpressing CsPSY1 Gene of Tea Plant, Encoding a Phytoene Synthase, Improves α-Carotene and β-Carotene Contents in Carrot

Tea plants (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) belong to Theaceae family, in the section Thea. Tea plants are widely distributed in subtropical and tropical regions in the word. α-carotene and β-carotene in the tea leaves belong to carotenoids, which are associated with the aroma and color of the tea. Phytoene synthase (PSY) is a rate-limiting enzyme in carotenoids biosynthesis. We identified three CsPSY genes in 'Shuchazao', named CsPSY1, CsPSY2, and CsPSY3. Structural analysis of three CsPSY genes showed that CsPSY1 had a longer intro structure. The cis-acting elements of CsPSYs promoter were mainly associated with light-responsiveness, abiotic stress-responsiveness, and hormone-responsiveness. CsPSY1 exhibited expression in all tissues of the tea plants, whereas CsPSY2 and CsPSY3 were trace expression levels in all tissues. The positive expression of CsPSY1 under hormonal and abiotic stresses suggested its role in plant development and defense responses. The amino acid sequence of CsPSY1 was highly conserved in eight tea cultivars. The recombinant vector pCAMBIA1301-CsPSY1 was constructed to stabilize the overexpression of CsPSY1 in carrot. The contents of α-carotene and β-carotene in transgenic carrot callus were significantly increased. This study provides a foundational basis for further research on the function of CsPSYs and carotenoids accumulation in tea plants.

Aging and antioxidants: the impact of dietary carotenoid intakes on soluble klotho levels in aged adults

Objectives

The association between dietary carotenoid intake and Soluble Klotho (S-Klotho) levels among the elderly population requires further evaluation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between the dietary carotenoid intake and the S-Klotho plasma levels in older adults.

Methods

Eligible participants aged 60 years or above were selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) data, collected between 2007 and 2016. The consumption of carotenoids was determined through two 24-hour dietary recall assessments. Moreover, the S-Klotho levels in the serum were measured using an Enzyme-Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA).

Results

A total of 5,056 participants were included in the study having a median total carotenoid intake of 9775.25 μg (95% confidence interval (CI): 8971.30-10579.21) and a median S-Klotho concentration of 815.59 pg/mL (95% CI: 802.59-828.60). The multivariable regression analysis showed that a single standard deviation increase in total carotenoid intake was significantly associated with an 8.40 pg/mL increase in S-Klotho levels (95% CI: 0.48-16.31). When the carotenoids were divided into quartiles, participants in the third ((4963.5μg/day,11662.5μg/day]) and fourth quartiles ((11662.5μg/day,377178μg/day]) showed higher S-Klotho levels compared to those in the first quartile. Among carotenoid subtypes, increased intake of α-carotene, β-carotene, and lutein with zeaxanthin was associated with elevated S-Klotho levels. These observed associations between carotenoid subtypes and S-Klotho levels remained consistent across male participants, having a normal weight, and a moderate physical activity based on stratified analysis.

Conclusion

The total carotenoid intake was positively related to plasma levels of S-Klotho in the elderly population, particularly for α-carotene, β-carotene, and lutein with zeaxanthin. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms behind this relationship.

Extraction and Emulsification of Carotenoids from Carrot Pomaces Using Oleic Acid

This study aimed to use oleic acid-based ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) to recover carotenoids from carrot pomace and emulsify the enriched-carotenoid oleic acid using spontaneous and ultrasonic-assisted emulsification. The extraction performance of oleic acid was compared with traditional organic solvents, including hexane, acetone, and ethyl acetate. The one-factor experiments were employed to examine the impact of UAE conditions, including liquid-to-solid ratios, temperature, ultrasonic power, and time, on the extraction yield of carotenoids and to find the conditional ranges for the optimization process. The response surface methodology was employed to optimize the UAE process. The second-order extraction kinetic model was used to find the mechanism of oleic acid-based UAE. After that, the enriched-carotenoid oleic acid obtained at the optimal conditions of UAE was used to fabricate nanoemulsions using spontaneous emulsification (SE), ultrasonic-assisted emulsification (UE), and SE-UE. The effect of SE and UE conditions on the turbidity of nanoemulsion was determined. Then, the physiochemical attributes of the nanoemulsion from SE, UE, and spontaneous ultrasonic-assisted emulsification (SE-UE) were determined using the dynamic light scattering method. The extraction yield of carotenoids from carrot pomace by using sonication was the highest. The adjusted optimal conditions were 39 mL/g of LSR, 50 °C, 12.5 min, and 350 W of ultrasonic power. Under optimal conditions, the carotenoid content attained was approximately 163.43 ± 1.83 μg/g, with the anticipated value (166 μg/g). The particle sizes of nanoemulsion fabricated at the proper conditions of SE, UE, and SE-UE were 31.2 ± 0.83, 33.8 ± 0.52, and 109.7 ± 8.24 nm, respectively. The results showed that SE and UE are suitable methods for fabricating nanoemulsions. The research provided a green approach for extracting and emulsifying carotenoids from carrot pomace.

Role of Nanoparticle-Conjugates and Nanotheranostics in Abrogating Oxidative Stress and Ameliorating Neuroinflammation

Oxidative stress is a deteriorating condition that arises due to an imbalance between the reactive oxygen species and the antioxidant system or defense of the body. The key reasons for the development of such conditions are malfunctioning of various cell organelles, such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi complex, as well as physical and mental disturbances. The nervous system has a relatively high utilization of oxygen, thus making it particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress, which eventually leads to neuronal atrophy and death. This advances the development of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration-associated disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, dementia, and other memory disorders. It is imperative to treat such conditions as early as possible before they worsen and progress to irreversible damage. Oxidative damage can be negated by two mechanisms: improving the cellular defense system or providing exogenous antioxidants. Natural antioxidants can normally handle such oxidative stress, but they have limited efficacy. The valuable features of nanoparticles and/or nanomaterials, in combination with antioxidant features, offer innovative nanotheranostic tools as potential therapeutic modalities. Hence, this review aims to represent novel therapeutic approaches like utilizing nanoparticles with antioxidant properties and nanotheranostics as delivery systems for potential therapeutic applications in various neuroinflammation- and neurodegeneration-associated disease conditions.

The Effect of Beta-Carotene on Cognitive Function: A Systematic Review

β-carotene is a powerful antioxidant and dietary precursor of vitamin A whose role in maintaining mental health and cognitive performance, either alone or in combination with other dietary compounds, has been a topic of recent research. However, its effectiveness is still unclear. This systematic review, conducted according to the PRISMA guideline and assisted by the MySLR platform, addressed this issue. A total of 16 eligible original research articles were identified. Dietary intake or β-carotene serum levels were associated with improved measures of cognitive function in 7 out of 10 epidemiological studies included. In intervention studies, β-carotene consumption alone did not promote better cognitive function in the short term, but only in a long-term intervention with a mean duration of 18 years. However, all but one intervention study suggested the beneficial effects of β-carotene supplementation at doses ranging from 6 mg to 50 mg per day in combination with a multicomplex such as vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc, or selenium for a period of 16 weeks to 20 years. Despite the current limitations, the available evidence suggests a potential association between β-carotene dietary/supplementary intake and the maintenance of cognitive function. The β-carotene most probably does not act alone but in synergy with other micronutrients.

The Southern European Atlantic Diet and Its Supplements: The Chemical Bases of Its Anticancer Properties

Scientific evidence increasingly supports the strong link between diet and health, acknowledging that a well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in preventing chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and certain types of cancer. This perspective opens the door to developing precision diets, particularly tailored for individuals at risk of developing cancer. It encompasses a vast research area and involves the study of an expanding array of compounds with multilevel "omics" compositions, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, epigenomics, miRNomics, and metabolomics. We review here the components of the Southern European Atlantic Diet (SEAD) from both a chemical and pharmacological standpoint. The information sources consulted, complemented by crystallographic data from the Protein Data Bank, establish a direct link between the SEAD and its anticancer properties. The data collected strongly suggest that SEAD offers an exceptionally healthy profile, particularly due to the presence of beneficial biomolecules in its foods. The inclusion of olive oil and paprika in this diet provides numerous health benefits, and scientific evidence supports the anticancer properties of dietary supplements with biomolecules sourced from vegetables of the brassica genus. Nonetheless, further research is warranted in this field to gain deeper insights into the potential benefits of the SEAD's bioactive compounds against cancer.

Isomerization of carotenoids in photosynthesis and metabolic adaptation

In nature, carotenoids are present as trans- and cis-isomers. Various physical and chemical factors like light, heat, acids, catalytic agents, and photosensitizers can contribute to the isomerization of carotenoids. Living organisms in the process of evolution have developed different mechanisms of adaptation to light stress, which can also involve isomeric forms of carotenoids. Particularly, light stress conditions can enhance isomerization processes. The purpose of this work is to review the recent studies on cis/trans isomerization of carotenoids as well as the role of carotenoid isomers for the light capture, energy transfer, photoprotection in light-harvesting complexes, and reaction centers of the photosynthetic apparatus of plants and other photosynthetic organisms. The review also presents recent studies of carotenoid isomers for the biomedical aspects, showing cis- and trans-isomers differ in bioavailability, antioxidant activity and biological activity, which can be used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes.

Dietary Carotene Intake and Suicidal Ideation in Korean Females: Analysis of Data From the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2012, 2013, and 2015)

OBJECTIVE

The suicide rate in Korea was the highest among countries in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development in 2019. In a previous study, higher intake of vegetables and fruits was associated with a lower risk of suicidal ideation, and carotene-rich fruits and vegetables lowered the risk of depression. This study aimed to examine the direct relationship between carotene intake and suicidal ideation, adjusting for the effect on depression.

METHODS

This study used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) conducted in 2012, 2013, and 2015. Carotene intake was assessed through a food intake frequency survey with a 24-hour recall. Suicidal ideation and depression were assessed using the mental health section of the KNHANES. We applied logistic regression to assess the relationship between carotene intake and suicidal ideation, adjusting for potential confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 5,480 females aged 19-64 years were included in this study. Carotene intake was significantly lower in the suicidal ideation group (3,034.5±1,756.4 μg/day) than in the nonsuicidal ideation group (3,225.4±1,795.1 μg/day) (p=0.015). We found a significant inverse association between carotene intake and the risk of suicidal ideation after adjusting for potential confounders (odds ratio=0.934, 95% confidence interval=0.873-0.999).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that carotene intake may be inversely associated with the risk of suicidal ideation. Our findings may inform the development of new nutritional interventions to prevent increases in the risk of suicide worldwide.

Pharmacological potentials of lycopene against aging and aging-related disorders: A review

Aging and aging-related chronic disorders are one of the principal causes of death worldwide. The prevalence of these disorders is increasing gradually and globally. Considering this unwavering acceleration of the global burden, seeking alternatives to traditional medication to prevent the risk of aging disorders is needed. Among them, lycopene, a carotenoid, is abundant in many fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, grapefruits, and watermelons, and it has a unique chemical structure to be a potent antioxidant compound. This nutraceutical also possesses several anti-aging actions, including combating aging biomarkers and ameliorating several chronic disorders. However, no systematic evaluation has yet been carried out that can comprehensively elucidate the effectiveness of lycopene in halting the course of aging and the emergence of chronic diseases linked to aging. This review, therefore, incorporates previous pre-clinical, clinical, and epidemiological studies on lycopene to understand its potency in treating aging disorders and its role as a mimic of caloric restriction. Lycopene-rich foods are found to prevent or attenuate aging disorders in various research. Based on the evidence, this review suggests the clinical application of lycopene to improve human health and alleviate the prevalence of aging and aging disorders.

Oxidative stress as a key modulator of cell fate decision in osteoarthritis and osteoporosis: a narrative review

During aging and after traumatic injuries, cartilage and bone cells are exposed to various pathophysiologic mediators, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), damage-associated molecular patterns, and proinflammatory cytokines. This detrimental environment triggers cellular stress and subsequent dysfunction, which not only contributes to the development of associated diseases, that is, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, but also impairs regenerative processes. To counter ROS-mediated stress and reduce the overall tissue damage, cells possess diverse defense mechanisms. However, cellular antioxidative capacities are limited and thus ROS accumulation can lead to aberrant cell fate decisions, which have adverse effects on cartilage and bone homeostasis. In this narrative review, we address oxidative stress as a major driver of pathophysiologic processes in cartilage and bone, including senescence, misdirected differentiation, cell death, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired mitophagy by illustrating the consequences on tissue homeostasis and regeneration. Moreover, we elaborate cellular defense mechanisms, with a particular focus on oxidative stress response and mitophagy, and briefly discuss respective therapeutic strategies to improve cell and tissue protection.

Disorders of Endogenous and Exogenous Antioxidants in Neurological Diseases

In diseases of the central nervous system, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's disease (HD), and even epilepsy and migraine, oxidative stress load commonly surpasses endogenous antioxidative capacity. While oxidative processes have been robustly implicated in the pathogenesis of these diseases, the significance of particular antioxidants, both endogenous and especially exogenous, in maintaining redox homeostasis requires further research. Among endogenous antioxidants, enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase are central to disabling free radicals, thereby preventing oxidative damage to cellular lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Whether supplementation with endogenously occurring antioxidant compounds such as melatonin and glutathione carries any benefit, however, remains equivocal. Similarly, while the health benefits of certain exogenous antioxidants, including ascorbic acid (vitamin C), carotenoids, polyphenols, sulforaphanes, and anthocyanins are commonly touted, their clinical efficacy and effectiveness in particular neurological disease contexts need to be more robustly defined. Here, we review the current literature on the cellular mechanisms mitigating oxidative stress and comment on the possible benefit of the most common exogenous antioxidants in diseases such as AD, PD, ALS, HD, stroke, epilepsy, and migraine. We selected common neurological diseases of a basically neurodegenerative nature.

Identification, Antioxidant Capacity, and Matrix Metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9) In Silico Inhibition of Haloarchaeal Carotenoids from Natronococcus sp. and Halorubrum tebenquichense

Natural pigments from haloarchaea are of great interest; bacterioruberin is the major pigment, it shows higher antioxidant power when compared with β-carotene. However, characterization of bacterioruberin and its isomers along with its antioxidant and the matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9) inhibition activities in extracts from Natronoccoccus sp. TC6 and Halorubrum tebenquichense SU10 was not previously described, being the aim of this work. The carotenoids profile was performed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, thin-layer chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS). Antioxidant capacity was determined for DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP. In addition, MMP-9 inhibition was studied using docking simulations. The carotenoid profile of studied strains was composed of bacterioruberin, some derivatives like mono, bis, and tris anhydrobacterioruberin, and also some bacterioruberin cis isomers. The carotenoid pools showed antioxidant capacity for DPPH > ABTS > FRAP; Natronococcus sp. TC6 carotenoid pool was better for ABTS and DPPH, while Halorubrum tebenquichense SU10 carotenoid pool was better for FRAP. Additionally, docking and molecular dynamics suggest that bacterioruberin inhibits MMP-9 through hydrophobic interactions near the catalytic site. Bacterioruberin shows the higher binding energy of -8.3 (kcal/mol). The carotenoids profile of both strains was elucidated, their antioxidant activity and singular participation of each carotenoid on MMP-9 in silico inhibition were evaluated.

Citrus Carotenoid Extracts Exert Anticancer Effects through Anti-Proliferation, Oxidative Stress, and Mitochondrial-Dependent Apoptosis in MCF-7 Cells

Citrus is a globally popular fruit crop that contains bioactive compounds with numerous health benefits. Carotenoids are one of the main bioactive compounds present in citrus pulp. They possess exceptional antioxidant and anticancer properties, making them potentially effective in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. Different citrus species, identified as ZMPG, DFGJ, NFMJ, XY, and ZHQC, were studied for their antioxidant activity and anticancer activity. XY had the highest total carotenoid content (75.30 µg/g FW), and ZHQC (ZH) had the lowest carotenoid content (19.74 µg/g FW). The composition of NFMJ, ZMPG, and DFHJ consisted of the most abundant number of carotenoids, while XY only had three types. The antioxidant capacity of the carotenoid extracts was evaluated, and ZH and DFHJ were identified as good sources of antioxidants. XY and ZH significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and arresting cells during the G0/G1 phase. XY and ZH enhanced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS); reduced mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP); reduced the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), and peroxidase (POD); decreased glutathione (GSH) levels; and increased the malonaldehyde (MDA) content. Apoptosis occurred through the mitochondrial-mediated pathway through the up-regulation of BAX, caspase-3, and caspase-9 and the down-regulation of Bcl-2. In this study, the carotenoid-rich extracts of citrus pulp were found to induce oxidative stress through their pro-oxidant potential and regulate cell apoptosis in MCF-7 cancer cells. These results indicate that citrus carotenoids act as pro-oxidants and have the potential to be utilized for the development of anti-breast cancer products.

The Hepatoprotective Effects of Moringa oleifera against Antiretroviral-Induced Cytotoxicity in HepG2 Cells: A Review

The untreated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), a lentivirus species that attacks immune cells (CD4+ T cells), causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV-positive people manage HIV/AIDS by using antiretroviral therapy (ART). The ART treatment regimen contains two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and one non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor/integrase strand transfer inhibitor. Tenofovir, an NRTI approved for managing HIV infection, is associated with hepatic steatosis and lactic acidosis, which are linked to mitochondrial toxicity and oxidative stress. Due to side-effects associated with ART, people living with HIV often use medicinal plants or a combination of medicinal plants with ART to promote adherence and diminish the side-effects and cytotoxicity. The Moringa oleifera (MO) tree from the family of Moringaceae is among the medicinal trees studied in managing HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. The MO tree extracts have been reported to have inhibitory activity primarily against HIV due to their bioactive compounds. However, there is a scarcity of knowledge about the use of the MO tree amongst HIV/AIDS patients receiving ART in South Africa and its effect on patient compliance and outcomes. Thus, this review aims to outline the impact of MO aqueous leaf extract on oxidative stress and antioxidant responses in human HepG2 liver cells after exposure to antiretrovirals such as tenofovir. The review will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the potential protective effect of MO aqueous leaf extract on tenofovir-induced cytotoxicity.

Natural sporopollenin microcapsules: biological evaluation and application in regulating hepatic toxicity of diclofenac sodium in vivo

Diclofenac sodium (DIC) is a pain reliever and anti-nociceptive medication. Significant limitations of DIC treatment stem from its adverse effects. This study investigates the feasibility of using natural Lycopodium clavatum sporopollenin (LCS) microcapsules loaded with DIC to mitigate the hepatotoxicity associated with DIC treatment. In addition, LCS microcapsules were tracked in the blood, stomach, small intestine, and feces of rats to demonstrate their morphological integrity and uptake behavior. Four groups (6 per group) of adult male albino rats were administered normal saline (control), empty LCS (30 mg kg-1), plain DIC (10 mg kg-1), and DIC-loaded LCS (40 mg kg-1) orally for seven consecutive days. The first comprehensive histological examination of the rat stomach demonstrated the robustness and bioadhesion ability of LCS under severe conditions. The findings suggested that these versatile microcapsules are unlikely to be digested in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The administration of DIC-loaded LCS was found to play a potential protective role in regulating DIC-induced substantially increased serum levels of transaminases, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, DIC-loaded LCS restored the antioxidant enzymes, DNA damage, and liver histological architecture abnormalities caused by DIC. Microencapsulation of DIC into pollen-derived biomaterials could be employed as an efficient platform with enough safety coverage on rat liver, pending further clinical studies.

The apocarotenoid production in microbial biofactories: An overview

Carotenoids are a vast group of natural pigments that come in a variety of colors ranging from red to orange. Apocarotenoids are derived from these carotenoids, which are hormones, pigments, retinoids, and volatiles employed in the textiles, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries. Due to the high commercial value and poor natural host abundance, they are significantly undersupplied. Microbes like Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli act as heterologous hosts for apocarotenoid production. This article briefly reviews categories of apocarotenoids, their biosynthetic pathway commencing from the MVA and MEP, its significance, the tool enzymes for apocarotenoid biosynthesis like CCDs, their biotechnological production in microbial factories, and future perspectives.

Carotenoid sequestration protein FIBRILLIN participates in CmOR-regulated β-carotene accumulation in melon

Chromoplasts are plant organelles with a unique ability to sequester and store massive carotenoids. Chromoplasts have been hypothesized to enable high levels of carotenoid accumulation due to enhanced sequestration ability or sequestration substructure formation. However, the regulators that control the substructure component accumulation and substructure formation in chromoplasts remain unknown. In melon (Cucumis melo) fruit, β-carotene accumulation in chromoplasts is governed by ORANGE (OR), a key regulator for carotenoid accumulation in chromoplasts. By using comparative proteomic analysis of a high β-carotene melon variety and its isogenic line low-β mutant that is defective in CmOr with impaired chromoplast formation, we identified carotenoid sequestration protein FIBRILLIN1 (CmFBN1) as differentially expressed. CmFBN1 expresses highly in melon fruit tissue. Overexpression of CmFBN1 in transgenic Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) containing ORHis that genetically mimics CmOr significantly enhances carotenoid accumulation, demonstrating its involvement in CmOR-induced carotenoid accumulation. Both in vitro and in vivo evidence showed that CmOR physically interacts with CmFBN1. Such an interaction occurs in plastoglobules and results in promoting CmFBN1 accumulation. CmOR greatly stabilizes CmFBN1, which stimulates plastoglobule proliferation and subsequently carotenoid accumulation in chromoplasts. Our findings show that CmOR directly regulates CmFBN1 protein levels and suggest a fundamental role of CmFBN1 in facilitating plastoglobule proliferation for carotenoid sequestration. This study also reveals an important genetic tool to further enhance OR-induced carotenoid accumulation in chromoplasts in crops.

Revisiting carotenoids as dietary antioxidants for human health and disease prevention

Humans are unique indiscriminate carotenoid accumulators, so the human body accumulates a wide range of dietary carotenoids of different types and to varying concentrations. Carotenoids were once recognized as physiological antioxidants because of their ability to quench singlet molecular oxygen (1O2). In the 1990s, large-scale intervention studies failed to demonstrate that supplementary β-carotene intake reduces the incidence of lung cancer, although its antioxidant activity was supposed to contribute to the prevention of oxidative stress-induced carcinogenesis. Nevertheless, the antioxidant activity of carotenoids has attracted renewed attention as the pathophysiological role of 1O2 has emerged, and as the ability of dietary carotenoids to induce antioxidant enzymes has been revealed. This review focuses on six major carotenoids from fruit and vegetables and revisits their physiological functions as biological antioxidants from the standpoint of health promotion and disease prevention. β-Carotene 9',10'-oxygenase-derived oxidative metabolites trigger increases in the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Lutein and zeaxanthin selectively accumulate in human macular cells to protect against light-induced macular impairment by acting as antioxidants. Lycopene accumulates exclusively and to high concentrations in the testis, where its antioxidant activity may help to eliminate oxidative damage. Dietary carotenoids appear to exert their antioxidant activity in photo-irradiated skin after their persistent deposition in the skin. An acceptable level of dietary carotenoids for disease prevention should be established because they can have deleterious effects as prooxidants if they accumulate to excess levels. Finally, it is expected that the reason why humans are indiscriminate carotenoid accumulators will be understood soon.

The Effect of Preventing Oxidative Stress and Its Mechanisms in the Extract from Sonchus brachyotus DC. Based on the Nrf2-Keap1-ARE Signaling Pathway

As the organ with the largest contact area with the outside world, the intestine is home to a large number of microorganisms and carries out the main functions of food digestion, absorption, and metabolism. Therefore, there is a very active metabolism of substances and energy in the gut, which is easily attacked by oxygen free radicals. What is more, oxidative stress can gradually and slowly cause very serious damage to the gut. Hence, maintaining redox balance is essential for maintaining environmental balance in the gut. Our previous studies have demonstrated that the extract of Sonchus brachyotus DC. (SBE) has been shown to be capable of repairing oxidative damage, while it has not been demonstrated that it can prevent oxidative stress or how it develops. In this work, we investigated the prevention of oxidative stress and its mechanism in SBE based on the H2O2-induced oxidative damage model in Caco-2 cells; the results indicate that SBE can reduce the contents of ROS and MDA and increase the activities of SOD and CAT in preventing oxidative stress. Then, at the mRNA and protein level, SBE can up-regulate and down-regulate the expression of related genes (NFE2L2, KEAP1, HMOX1, NQO1, SOD1, CAT, and GPX1) and proteins involved in the Nrf2-Keap1-ARE signaling pathway. In conclusion, SBE plays a preventive role in oxidative stress through the Nrf2-Keap1-ARE signaling pathway.

Genomic exploration of coral-associated bacteria: identifying probiotic candidates to increase coral bleaching resilience in Galaxea fascicularis

BACKGROUND

Reef-building corals are acutely threatened by ocean warming, calling for active interventions to reduce coral bleaching and mortality. Corals associate with a wide diversity of bacteria which can influence coral health, but knowledge of specific functions that may be beneficial for corals under thermal stress is scant. Under the oxidative stress theory of coral bleaching, bacteria that scavenge reactive oxygen (ROS) or nitrogen species (RNS) are expected to enhance coral thermal resilience. Further, bacterial carbon export might substitute the carbon supply from algal photosymbionts, enhance thermal resilience and facilitate bleaching recovery. To identify probiotic bacterial candidates, we sequenced the genomes of 82 pure-cultured bacteria that were isolated from the emerging coral model Galaxea fascicularis.

RESULTS

Genomic analyses showed bacterial isolates were affiliated with 37 genera. Isolates such as Ruegeria, Muricauda and Roseovarius were found to encode genes for the synthesis of the antioxidants mannitol, glutathione, dimethylsulfide, dimethylsulfoniopropionate, zeaxanthin and/or β-carotene. Genes involved in RNS-scavenging were found in many G. fascicularis-associated bacteria, which represents a novel finding for several genera (including Pseudophaeobacter). Transporters that are suggested to export carbon (semiSWEET) were detected in seven isolates, including Pseudovibrio and Roseibium. Further, a range of bacterial strains, including strains of Roseibium and Roseovarius, revealed genomic features that may enhance colonisation and association of bacteria with the coral host, such as secretion systems and eukaryote-like repeat proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

Our work provides an in-depth genomic analysis of the functional potential of G. fascicularis-associated bacteria and identifies novel combinations of traits that may enhance the coral's ability to withstand coral bleaching. Identifying and characterising bacteria that are beneficial for corals is critical for the development of effective probiotics that boost coral climate resilience. Video Abstract.

First Trimester Prediction of Preterm Birth in Patient Plasma with Machine-Learning-Guided Raman Spectroscopy and Metabolomics

Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of infant deaths globally. Current clinical measures often fail to identify women who may deliver preterm. Therefore, accurate screening tools are imperative for early prediction of PTB. Here, we show that Raman spectroscopy is a promising tool for studying biological interfaces, and we examine differences in the maternal metabolome of the first trimester plasma of PTB patients and those that delivered at term (healthy). We identified fifteen statistically significant metabolites that are predictive of the onset of PTB. Mass spectrometry metabolomics validates the Raman findings identifying key metabolic pathways that are enriched in PTB. We also show that patient clinical information alone and protein quantification of standard inflammatory cytokines both fail to identify PTB patients. We show for the first time that synergistic integration of Raman and clinical data guided with machine learning results in an unprecedented 85.1% accuracy of risk stratification of PTB in the first trimester that is currently not possible clinically. Correlations between metabolites and clinical features highlight the body mass index and maternal age as contributors of metabolic rewiring. Our findings show that Raman spectral screening may complement current prenatal care for early prediction of PTB, and our approach can be translated to other patient-specific biological interfaces.

Xanthophyll pigments dietary supplements administration and retinal health in the context of increasing life expectancy trend

Introduction

Medicine faces nowadays the trend of increasing life expectancy of human population, with the resulting increase of degenerative age related diseases prevalence, combined with the risks of less tempered sun radiations environment exposure. Under these circumstances, our work pointed out on evaluating the effect of some xanthophyll pigments dietary supplements, actually widely recommended, for prevention of retinal degenerative damages and for slowing down the progression of such age related changes if they have already occurred. These dietary supplements are already well known for their total antioxidant activity, proven by photochemiluminescence method using Total Antioxidant Capacity in Lipid soluble-substances procedure.

Materials and methods

The study recruited a number of 120 subjects equally divided on genders. The lot included a first group of 60 patients with comparable ages (all of them over 50 years and divided in 2 segments of age: 50-60 and over 60) and suffering from comparable retinal age-related degenerative abnormalities (mild/medium severity age-related macular degeneration according to Wisconsin Age-Related Maculopathy Grading System), and a second group, considered control, including a similar number of healthy, normal retina subjects belonging to same age and gender categories. There were evaluated at baseline the eye medical status and the retinal risk by specific methods: complete eye check-up, Amsler grid, specific standardized questionnaires focused on visual function and its impact on the quality of current life. Both groups, patients and control, received similar dosages of xanthophyll pigments dietary supplements including lutein and zeaxanthin during 18 months after baseline; at the end of this supplementation period a new evaluation was conducted. In the second part of the research all subjects involved received a new dietary supplement in which the same xanthophylls were enriched with C and E vitamins and oligo-elements Zinc and Copper. At the end of three years duration supplementation, the subjects were reevaluated and the paper presents the conclusions on the matter, pointing on the impact of xanthophyll supplements on visual health.

Results

Correlation tests were applied to the complete set of data. Correlation tests have values between -1 and +1. The value -1 represents the negative correlation (reverse proportionality) meanwhile the value +1 represents the positive correlation (direct proportionality). The charts show the curves that are fitting experimental data. The dependence is linear in nature, and the value R2, as it approaches more the value 1, represents a better match with the experimental data (the data are in a percentage of approximately 99% on these straight lines of type y = ax + b). In the charts, there were noted the average values of the scores for healthy control patients with "Control", and the average values of the scores for the patients with existing age related degenerative retinal pathology at baseline with "Patients".

Discussion

The retinal function and the impact of visual condition on health were both evaluated at baseline, 18 months and 36 months after baseline, by visual acuity, ophthalmoscopy fundus examination, Amsler test and by asking the subjects to answer the visual function questionnaires: EQ-5D, NEI-VFQ-25, as measures of health status quality and of the influence on welfare. The study revealed that under supplementation both control healthy subjects and patients with known degenerative retinal pathology included in the 50-60 years of age group evolved almost the same way, leading to the conclusion that administered xanthophyll pigments-based supplements, simple or enriched, managed to slow down the progression of abnormal degenerative vision loss to a rate comparable to physiological aging-related vision loss. It was also observed that intake of xanthophyll pigments dietary supplements preserved the general health condition and maintained relatively constant vision on the entire 36th months follow-up research duration in patients presented with existing age related degenerative retinal pathology at baseline. For healthy subjects, evaluation showed an improvement in results after dietary supplementation, with maintenance of constant vision and a significantly increase of general condition, in a positive sense. For subjects over the age of 60 dietary supplements intake was even more effective compared to younger group in providing better control of degenerative processes.

Association between β-carotene supplementation and risk of cancer: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

CONTEXT

β-Carotene, which is derived from most fruits and vegetables, is the most common type of carotenes. Existing studies have demonstrated that β-carotene is associated with some positive health outcomes. However, results about the effects of supplemental β-carotene on cancer are inconsistent.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between supplemental β-carotene intake and the risk of cancers.

DATA SOURCES

Eight databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wangfang, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database) were systematically searched until September 2022.

DATA EXTRACTION

Only reports from randomized controlled trials in which an association between supplemental β-carotene intake and the risk of cancer was found were included in the meta-analysis.

DATA ANALYSIS

A total of 18 eligible studies based on 8 different randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis, with varying sample sizes from 391 to 39 876 participants. There was no significant association between supplemental β-carotene intake and overall cancer incidence rate after synthesizing all the results (risk ratio [RR]: 1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.99-1.05). Results from subgroup analysis indicated that intake of supplemental β-carotene significantly increased the risk of lung cancer (RR: 1.19; 95%CI: 1.08-1.32), whereas no significant associations were observed for other site-specific cancers. In addition, smokers and the subgroup of participants with only low-dose β-carotene intake had a risk increment of cancer if they took supplemental β-carotene (RR: 1.16; 95%CI: 1.05-1.29).

CONCLUSION

β-Carotene supplementation has no beneficial or harmful effect on cancer incidence; moreover, it might have potentially harmful effects on lung cancer, especially for people who smoke. On the basis of the evidence from this study, supplemental intake of β-carotene is not recommended for preventing cancer, and the establishment of a tolerable upper intake level of β-carotene should be considered.

Impact of Cold Storage Temperature and Shelf Life on Ripening Physiology, Quality Attributes, and Nutritional Value in Apricots-Implication of Cultivar

This work aimed to investigate the storability potential of Orange Red and Orange Rubis apricots harvested at commercial maturity stage during cold storage (CS) at 1 or 5 °C for up to 28 days, followed by shelf life (SL) at 20 °C for 2 days. The variables evaluated included total soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH only at harvest, weight loss (WL), ethylene production rates, peel color, firmness, chilling injury incidence (CI), concentrations of total phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, total antioxidant capacity, b-carotene, b-cryptoxantine, and lutein. The main results showed that storage at 5 °C resulted in higher WL and CI symptoms than at 1 °C during both CS and SL, increased ethylene production during CS, whereas there was limited or no effect of CS temperatures on changes in firmness, color, and all antioxidants during CS. Firmness decreased abruptly soon after harvest in Orange Rubis, but progressively in the remaining samples of both cultivars during CS and SL. SL advanced fruit deterioration according to WL, CI, and softening. During SL, ethylene production increased in all samples. Orange Red exhibited higher ethylene rates during SL and antioxidant concentrations throughout CS and SL, by comparison. Conclusively, storage temperature at 1 °C retained WL, CI, and ethylene production, and both cultivars were marketable up to 21 days CS without SL or up to 14 days CS followed by SL, although Orange Rubis exhibited CI after 14 days, while Orange Red exhibited CI after 21 days of CS.

Nutritional, bioactive compounds content, and antioxidant activity of brown seaweeds from the Red Sea

Introduction

Brown seaweeds are excellent sources of bioactive molecules with a wide range of pharmacological effects, whose content can vary depending on several factors, including the origin and the environment in which the algae grow.

Methods

This study aimed to estimate 19 compounds regarding primary and secondary metabolites of eight brown macroalgal species from a clean Egyptian Red Sea coast. A proximate analysis, pigment, phenolic compounds, and vitamin contents were determined. In addition, the energy content and antioxidant activity were estimated to explore the potential application of algae as functional foods to encourage the species' commercialization.

Results

Based on the chemical composition, Polycladia myrica was the most valuable species, with a comparatively high protein content of 22.54%, lipid content of 5.21%, fucoxanthin content of 3.12 μg/g, β-carotene content of 0.55 mg/100 g, and carbohydrate content of 45.2%. This species also acts as a great source of vitamin C, flavonoids, tannins, phenol content and total antioxidant capacity.

Discussion

The antioxidant activity of the selected algae indicated that its phenol, vitamin and pigment contents were powerful antioxidant compounds based on the structure-activity relationships. This result was verified by the strong correlation in statistical analysis at the 95% confidence level. From a worldwide perspective and based on the obtained results, these brown species may be reinforced as an essential line in future foods.

Astaxanthin as a Potent Antioxidant for Promoting Bone Health: An Up-to-Date Review

In recent years, bone loss and its associated diseases have become a significant public health concern due to increased disability, morbidity, and mortality. Oxidative stress and bone loss are correlated, where oxidative stress suppresses osteoblast activity, resulting in compromised homeostasis between bone formation and resorption. This event causes upregulation of bone remodeling turnover rate with an increased risk of fractures and bone loss. Therefore, supplementation of antioxidants can be proposed to reduce oxidative stress, facilitate the bone remodeling process, suppress the initiation of bone diseases, and improve bone health. Astaxanthin (3,3'-dihydroxy-4-4'-diketo-β-β carotene), a potent antioxidant belonging to the xanthophylls family, is a potential ROS scavenger and could be a promising therapeutic nutraceutical possessing various pharmacological properties. In bone, astaxanthin enhances osteoblast differentiation, osteocytes numbers, and/or differentiation, inhibits osteoclast differentiation, cartilage degradation markers, and increases bone mineral density, expression of osteogenic markers, while reducing bone loss. In this review, we presented the up-to-date findings of the potential anabolic effects of astaxanthin on bone health in vitro, animal, and human studies by providing comprehensive evidence for its future clinical application, especially in treating bone diseases.