The Role of Catechins in Cellular Responses to Oxidative Stress

Regulation of Cytochrome c Oxidase by Natural Compounds Resveratrol, (-)-Epicatechin, and Betaine

Numerous naturally occurring molecules have been studied for their beneficial health effects. Many compounds have received considerable attention for their potential medical uses. Among them, several substances have been found to improve mitochondrial function. This review focuses on resveratrol, (–)-epicatechin, and betaine and summarizes the published data pertaining to their effects on cytochrome c oxidase (COX) which is the terminal enzyme of the mitochondrial electron transport chain and is considered to play an important role in the regulation of mitochondrial respiration. In a variety of experimental model systems, these compounds have been shown to improve mitochondrial biogenesis in addition to increased COX amount and/or its enzymatic activity. Given that they are inexpensive, safe in a wide range of concentrations, and effectively improve mitochondrial and COX function, these compounds could be attractive enough for possible therapeutic or health improvement strategies.

Preliminary Phytochemical Analysis and Evaluation of the Biological Activity of Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) R. Br Transformed Roots Extracts Obtained through Rhizobium rhizogenes-Mediated Transformation

According to the present knowledge, this is the first report on establishing transformed root cultures of Leonotis nepetifolia after Rhizobium rhizogenes-mediated transformation. The preliminary phytochemical analysis showed differences in the content of phenols and flavonoids in transformed and nontransformed roots. The dominant compounds in the analyzed extracts were (+)-catechin (5464 and 6808 µg/g DW), p-coumaric acid (2549 and 4907 µg/g DW), m-coumaric acid (1508 and 2048 µg/g DW) and rosmarinic acid (1844 and 2643 µg/g DW) for nontransformed (LNNR) and transformed (LNTR4) roots, respectively. Initial biological studies carried out on LNNR, and LNTR4 extracts showed a cytotoxic effect on the A549 lung, HCC1937 breast and leukemia NALM-6 cell lines, antioxidants, as well as repair and protection against DNA damage induced by H₂O₂ in HUVEC cells. Due to the stronger effect of the LNTR4 root extract, which can be a relatively efficient and cheap source of bioactive secondary metabolites, further biological analyses are needed to discover in detail their potentially valuable biological properties.

Effects of Traditional Chinese Medication-Based Bioactive Compounds on Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Oxidative Stress

The oxidative stress reaction is the imbalance between oxidation and antioxidation in the body, resulting in excessive production of oxygen free radicals in the body that cannot be removed, leading to excessive oxidation of the body, and causing damage to cells and tissues. A large number of studies have shown that oxidative stress is involved in the pathological process of many diseases, so inhibiting oxidative stress, that is, antioxidation, is of great significance for the treatment of diseases. Studies have shown that many traditional Chinese medications contain antioxidant active bioactive compounds, but the mechanisms of those compounds are different and complicated. Therefore, by summarizing the literature on antioxidant activity of traditional Chinese medication-based bioactive compounds in recent years, our review systematically elaborates the main antioxidant bioactive compounds contained in traditional Chinese medication and their mechanisms, so as to provide references for the subsequent research.

Recent advances in chemistry and bioactivity of Sargentodoxa cuneata

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The genus Sargentodoxa comprises only one species, Sargentodoxa cuneata (Oliv.) Rehd et al., widely distributed in the subtropical zone of China. The plant is extensively used in traditional medicine for treating arthritis, joint pains, amenorrhea, acute appendicitis and inflammatory intestinal obstruction. Pharmacological studies show anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, antimicrobial, and anti-sepsis activities.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to summarize the information about distribution, traditional uses, chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of S. cuneata, as an attempt to provide a scientific basis for its traditional uses and to support its application and development for new drug development.

METHODOLOGY

Scientific information of S. cuneata was retrieved from the online bibliographic databases, including Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, Springer Link, the Wiley online library, SciFinder, Baidu Scholar, China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI) and WANFANG DATA (up to March 2020). We also search doctoral dissertations, master dissertations conference papers and published books. The keywords were used: "Sargentodoxa", "Da Xue Teng", "Hong Teng", "Xue Teng", "secondary metabolites", "chemical components", "biological activity", "pharmacology", "traditional uses".

OBSERVATIONS AND RESULTS

S. cuneata is utilized as valuable herbal medicines to treat various diseases in China. Over 110 chemical constituents have been isolated and identified from the stem of S. cuneata, including phenolic acids, phenolic glycosides, lignans, flavones, triterpenoids and other compounds. The extract and compounds of S. cuneata have a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities, including antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-sepsis and anti-arthritis effects, as well as protective activity against cerebrovascular diseases.

CONCLUSION

S. cuneata has a rich legacy for the treatment of many diseases, especially arthritis and sepsis, which is reinforced by current investigations. However, the present studies about bioactive chemical constituents and detail pharmacological mechanisms of S. cuneata were insufficient. Further studies should focus on these aspects in relation to its clinical applications. This review has systematically summarized the traditional uses, phytochemical constituents and pharmacological effects of S. cuneata, providing references for the therapeutic potential of new drug development.

The Keap1-Nrf2 System: A Mediator between Oxidative Stress and Aging

Oxidative stress, a term that describes the imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants, leads to the disruption of redox signals and causes molecular damage. Increased oxidative stress from diverse sources has been implicated in most senescence-related diseases and in aging itself. The Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1- (Keap1-) nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) system can be used to monitor oxidative stress; Keap1-Nrf2 is closely associated with aging and controls the transcription of multiple antioxidant enzymes. Simultaneously, Keap1-Nrf2 signaling is also modulated by a more complex regulatory network, including phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt), protein kinase C, and mitogen-activated protein kinase. This review presents more information on aging-related molecular mechanisms involving Keap1-Nrf2. Furthermore, we highlight several major signals involved in Nrf2 unbinding from Keap1, including cysteine modification of Keap1 and phosphorylation of Nrf2, PI3K/Akt/glycogen synthase kinase 3β, sequestosome 1, Bach1, and c-Myc. Additionally, we discuss the direct interaction between Keap1-Nrf2 and the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway. In summary, we focus on recent progress in research on the Keap1-Nrf2 system involving oxidative stress and aging, providing an empirical basis for the development of antiaging drugs.

Sublethal and lethal effects of the imidacloprid on the metabolic characteristics based on high-throughput non-targeted metabolomics in Aphis gossypii Glover

Sublethal effect considered as an emerging factor to assess the environmental risk of insecticides, which can impact the insects on both physiology and behavior. Lethal exposure can be causing near immediate mortality. Pests are inevitably exposed to sublethal and lethal dose in the agroecosystem following application of pesticides. Insecticides, widely used for the control of insect pests, are irreplaceable in insect pest management. The effects of imidacloprid by the method of high-throughput non-targeted metabolomics was investigated in Aphis gossypii Glover exposed to LC₁₀ and LC₉₀ doses of the imidacloprid, and the control group was treated with the same condition without imidacloprid. Pairwise comparisons showed that 111 metabolites changed significantly, 60 in the LC₁₀ group, and 66 in the LC₉₀ group compared to the control group, while only 16 changes in the LC₁₀ were same with that in LC₉₀ group. Among the changed metabolites, a total of 16 metabolites were identified as potential biomarkers, which represented the most influential pathways including glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, glutathione metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, caffeine metabolism and parkinson's disease (PD), which could account for the sublethal and lethal effects on A. gossypii. These modified metabolic pathways demonstrated that high energy consumption, excitotoxicity and oxidative stress (OS) were appeared in both LC₁₀ and LC₉₀ groups, while PD was detected only in the LC₉₀ group. The results of non-targeted metabolomics revealed the effects of neonicotinoid pesticide exposure on A. gossypii successfully, and provided a deep insight into the influenced physiology by the stress of neonicotinoid pesticide in the insect.

Inajá oil processing by-product: A novel source of bioactive catechins and procyanidins from a Brazilian native fruit

Agro-industrial activities generate large amounts of solid residues, which are generally discarded or used as animal feed. Interestingly, some of these by-products could serve as natural sources of bioactive compounds with great potential for industrial exploitation. This study aimed to optimize the extraction of phenolic antioxidants from the pulp residue (oil processing by-product) of inajá (Maximiliana maripa, a native species found in the Brazilian Amazon). The antioxidant properties of the optimized extract and its phenolic profile by high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS) were further determined. Central composite rotatable design and statistical analysis demonstrated that the temperature of 70 °C and 50% (v/v) ethanol concentration improved the extraction of phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties. The optimized extract also showed scavenging activity against the ABTS radical cation and reactive oxygen species (ROS; peroxyl and superoxide radical, and hypochlorous acid). Moreover, the optimized extract was able to reduce NF-κB activation and TNF-α release, which are modulated by ROS. Flavan-3-ols were the major phenolics present in the optimized extract. Collectively, our findings support the use of inajá cake as a new source of bioactive catechins and procyanidins. This innovative approach adds value to this agro-industrial by-product in the functional food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and/or cosmetic industries and complies with the circular economy agenda.

1H nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolite profiling of guava leaf extract: an attempt to develop a prototype for standardization of plant extracts

Background

Herbal medicines are fast gaining popularity. However, their acceptability by modern practitioners is low which is often due to lack of standardization. Several approaches towards standardization of herbals have been employed. The current study attempted to recognize key peaks from ¹H NMR spectra which together would comprise of a spectral fingerprint relating to efficacy of Psidium guajava (guava) leaf extract as an antidiarrhoeal when a number of unidentified active principles are involved.

Methods

Ninety samples of guava leaves were collected from three locations over three seasons. Hydroalcoholic (water and ethanol, 50:50) extracts of these samples were prepared and their ¹H NMR spectra were acquired. Spectra were also obtained for quercetin, ferulic acid and gallic acid as standards. Eight bioassays reflecting different stages of diarrhoeal pathogenesis were undertaken and based on pre-decided cut-offs, the extracts were classified as ‘good’ or ‘poor’ extracts. The bioactivity data was then correlated with the ¹H NMR profiles using Regression or Orthogonal Partial Least Square-Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA).

Results

OPLS-DA showed seasonal and regional segregation of extracts. Significant models were established for seven bioassays, namely those for anti-bacterial activity against Shigella flexneri and Vibrio cholerae, adherence of E. coli, invasion of E. coli and S. flexneri and production and binding of toxin produced by V. cholerae. It was observed that none of the extracts were good or bad across all the bioassays. The spectral analysis showed multiple peaks correlating with a particular activity. Based on NMR and LC-MS/MS, it was noted that the extracts contained quercetin, ferulic acid and gallic acid. However, they did not correlate with the peaks that segregated extracts with good and poor activity.

Conclusions

The current study identified key peaks in ¹H NMR spectra contributing to the anti-diarrhoeal activity of guava leaf extracts. The approach of using spectral fingerprinting employed in the present study can thus be used as a prototype towards standardization of plant extracts with respect to efficacy.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-021-03221-5.

Cardiorespiratory Effects of Indoor Ozone Exposure Associated with Changes in Metabolic Profiles among Children: A Repeated-Measure Panel Study

Ozone is one of the major gaseous pollutants associated with short-term adverse cardiopulmonary effects, even at concentrations below the current indoor air quality limits. However, the underlying biological mechanisms of cardiorespiratory changes with exposure to ozone remain unclear. To further explore molecular linkages between indoor ozone exposure and relevant cardiorespiratory effects, a repeated-measure panel study including 46 schoolchildren was conducted and real-time exposure measurements including ozone were performed inside classrooms every weekday during the study period. Repeated health measurements and urine sample collection were conducted in each participant. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry and meet-in-metabolite approach were used in metabolomics analysis. Methods including mixed-effect models were adopted to identify metabolites associated with ozone exposure or health indices. Nine metabolites were found to be associated with ozone after mixed-effect model analysis, which are mainly involved in amino acid and bile acid metabolism. Boys may have a greater decrease in bile acid and RNA related metabolites. Four of the nine ozone-related metabolites were also associated with cardiorespiratory function indices. Furthermore, 26.67% of the positive association between ozone and heart rate was mediated by cholestane-3,7,12,25-tetrol-3-glucuronide. Exposure to ozone below the current indoor standards was associated with the deteriorated cardiovascular function by disturbing bile acid and endogenous nitric oxide-related oxidation and inflammation, and associated with the exacerbated airway inflammation by reducing GPx-related anti-oxidation. The results provide metabolic evidence of the cardiorespiratory effects of indoor ozone exposure. Indoor ozone pollution should be controlled further, and more attention should be paid to preventing its adverse health effects, especially in children.

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Indoor O₃ exposure far below the indoor air quality limits disturbed amino acid and bile acid metabolism of children

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Exposure to indoor O₃ at low concentrations was associated with the deteriorated HRV, BP by affecting bile acid- and endogenous NO-related oxidation and inflammation

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Exposure to indoor O₃ at low concentrations was associated with the aggravated airway inflammation by reducing GPx-related anti-oxidation

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The cardiorespiratory effects of low-level ozone exposure indoors in children require additional attention

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Indoor ozone pollution should be controlled further and the current indoor ozone standards should be revised

In Vitro Enzyme Inhibitory and Antioxidant Properties, Cytotoxicity, and LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS Profile of Extracts from the Halophyte Lotus creticus L

Background: The halophyte Lotus creticus L. (creta trefoil, Fabaceae) belongs to a family and genus containing several medicinal species, and is considered a promising crop for saline Mediterranean areas. However, to the best of our knowledge, information regarding the biological properties of this species that could increase its biotechnological value is particularly scarce. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the potential use of creta trefoil collected in Southern Portugal (Algarve) as a source of bioactive products. Methods: Food-grade extracts (water, acetone, ethanol) were obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction from aerial parts (stems and leaves) and fruits (pods), and evaluated for acute toxicity on mammalian cells. In vitro enzymatic inhibition was appraised on enzymes related to neurodegeneration (acetyl- and butyryl-cholinesterase: AChE and BuChE), type-2 diabetes (T2DM, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase), and hyperpigmentation/food browning (tyrosinase). In vitro, antioxidant activity included radical scavenging towards 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and metal chelating activity on iron and copper. Chemical composition was established by liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector (LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS). Results: Samples were not toxic and were active towards AChE (especially acetone extracts) and BuChE (particularly ethanol and acetone fruits’ extracts). Acetone and water fruit extracts and ethanol extract from aerial organs displayed significant inhibition on α-glucosidase, but low capacity towards amylase. All extracts exhibited a high capacity to inhibit tyrosinase, except water extract from aerial organs. Fruit extracts had, in general, the highest antioxidant capacity, especially ethanol. Fruits exhibited the highest diversity of polyphenols, especially flavonols, catechins, quercetin, myricetin, and its derivatives. Conclusions: Overall, our results suggested that creta trefoil should be further explored as a source of natural products for the management of T2DM, hyperpigmentation disorders, or food additive to prevent food oxidation and browning.

New insights into the role of the Nrf2 signaling pathway in green tea catechin applications

Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcriptional signaling pathway that plays a crucial role in numerous clinical complications. Pivotal roles of Nrf2 have been proved in cancer, autoimmune diseases, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, renal injuries, respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal disturbances, and general disorders related to oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, gelatinolysis, autophagy, and fibrogenesis processes. Green tea catechins as a rich source of phenolic compounds can deal with various clinical problems and manifestations. In this review, we attempted to focus on intervention between green tea catechins and Nrf2. Green tea catechins especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) elucidated the protective role of Nrf2 and its downstream molecules in various disorders through Keap-1, HO-1, NQO-1, GPx, GCLc, GCLm, NF-kB cross-link, kinases, and apoptotic proteins. Subsequently, we compiled an updated expansions of the Nrf2 role as a gate to manage and protect different disorders and feasible indications of green tea catechins through this signaling pathway. The present review highlighted recent evidence-based data in silico, in vitro, and in vivo studies on an outline for future clinical trials.

Crataegus laevigata Suppresses LPS-Induced Oxidative Stress during Inflammatory Response in Human Keratinocytes by Regulating the MAPKs/AP-1, NFκB, and NFAT Signaling Pathways

Crataegus laevigata belongs to the family Rosaceae, which has been widely investigated for pharmacological effects on the circulatory and digestive systems. However, there is limited understanding about its anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammatory effects on skin. In this study, 70% ethanol C. laevigata berry extract (CLE) was investigated on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated keratinocytes. The LPS-induced overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was suppressed by the treatment with CLE. In response to ROS induction, the overexpression of inflammatory regulating signaling molecules including mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK)/activator protein-1 (AP-1), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB), and nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) were reduced in CLE-treated human keratinocytes. Consequently, CLE significantly suppressed the mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory chemokines and interleukins in LPS-stimulated cells. Our results indicated that CLE has protective effects against LPS-induced injury in an in vitro model and is a potential alternative agent for inflammatory treatment.

Drinking Green Tea: Despite the Risks Due to Mycotoxins, Is It Possible to Increase the Associated Health Benefits?

Tea has been consumed for thousands of years. Despite the different varieties, particular emphasis has been placed on green tea (GT), considering the associated health benefits following its regular consumption, some of which are due to its polyphenol constituents, such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Tea is not prone to the growth of microorganisms, except fungus, when proper storage, handling, and packing conditions are compromised. Consequently, mycotoxins, secondary metabolites of fungi, could contaminate tea samples, affecting human health. In the present study, we aimed to assess the balance between risks (due to mycotoxins and high levels of EGCG) and benefits (due to moderate intake of EGCG) associated with the consumption of GT. For this, 20 GT samples (10 in bulk and 10 in bags) available in different markets in Lisbon were analyzed through a LC–MS/MS method, evaluating 38 different mycotoxins. Six samples revealed detectable values of the considered toxins. Current levels of mycotoxins and EGCG intake were not associated with health concerns. Scenarios considering an increasing consumption of GT in Portugal showed that drinking up to seven cups of GT per day should maximize the associated health benefits. The present study contributes to the future establishment of GT consumption recommendations in Portugal.

Cyclophilin A inhibits A549 cell oxidative stress and apoptosis by modulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway

The excessive and inappropriate production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause oxidative stress and is implicated in the pathogenesis of lung cancer. Cyclophilin A (CypA), a member of the immunophilin family, is secreted in response to ROS. To determine the role of CypA in oxidative stress injury, we investigated the role that CypA plays in human lung carcinoma (A549) cells. Here, we showed the protective effect of human recombinant CypA (hCypA) on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative damage in A549 cells, which play crucial roles in lung cancer. Our results demonstrated that hCypA substantially promoted cell viability, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and GSH peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, and attenuated ROS and malondialdehyde (MDA) production in H₂O₂-induced A549 cells. Compared with H₂O₂-induced A549 cells, Caspase-3 activity in hCypA-treated cells was significantly reduced. Using Western blotting, we showed that hCypA facilitated Bcl-2 expression and inhibited Bax, Caspase-3, Caspase-7, and PARP-1 expression. Furthermore, hCypA activates the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in A549 cells in response to H₂O₂ stimulation. Additionally, peptidyl-prolyl isomerase activity was required for PI3K/Akt activation by CypA. The present study showed that CypA protected A549 cells from H₂O₂-induced oxidative injury and apoptosis by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Thus, CypA might be a potential target for lung cancer therapy.

Evaluation of Dimer of Epicatechin from an Endophytic Fungus Curvularia australiensis FC2AP on Acute Toxicity Levels, Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Cervical Cancer Activity in Animal Models

Cervical cancer, as the most frequent cancer in women globally and accounts almost 14% in India. It can be prevented or treated with vaccines, radiation, chemotherapy, and brachytherapy. The chemotherapeutic agents cause adverse post effects by the destruction of the neighboring normal cells or altering the properties of the cells. In order to reduce the severity of the side effects caused by the chemically synthesized therapeutic agents, the current research developed an anti-cancer agent dimer of epicatechin (DoE), a natural bioactive secondary metabolite (BSM) mediated from an endophytic fungus Curvularia australiensis FC2AP. The investigation has initiated with the evaluation of inhibiting the angiogenesis which is a main activity in metastasis, and it was assessed through Hen’s Egg Test on Chorio Allantoic Membrane (HET-CAM) test; the BSM inhibited the growth of blood vessels in the developing chick embryo. Further the DoE was evaluated for its acute toxicity levels in albino mice, whereas the survival dose was found to be 1250 mg/kg and the lethal dose was 1500 mg/kg body weight of albino mice; hematological, biochemical, and histopathological analyses were assessed. The anti-inflammatory responses of the DoE were evaluated in carrageenan induced Wistar rats and the reduction of inflammation occurred in a dose-dependent manner. By fixing the effective dose for anti-inflammation analysis, the DoE was taken for the anti-cervical cancer analysis in benzo (a) pyrene induced female Sprague-Dawley rats for 60 days trial. After the stipulated days, the rats were taken for hematological antioxidants, lipid peroxidation (LPO), member bound enzymes, cervical histopathological and carcinogenic markers analyses. The results specified that the DoE has the capability of reducing the tumor in an efficient way. This is the first report of flavonoid-DoE production from an endophytic fungus C. australiensis has the anticancer potentiality and it can be stated as anti-cancer drug.

Comparative Analysis of the Polyphenols, Caffeine, and Antioxidant Activities of Green Tea, White Tea, and Flowers from Azorean Camellia sinensis Varieties Affected by Different Harvested and Processing Conditions

This study evaluates the polyphenol profiles as well as caffeine (dry weight basis), and antioxidant activities of green tea (GTs), white tea (WTs), and flowers (Fl) samples from Azorean Camellia sinensis varieties affected by different harvested and processing conditions. Epicatechins derivatives, determined by RP-HPLC/PDAD, presented higher values in GTs with respect to WTs, decreasing as follows: epigallocatechin-3-gallate > epicatechin-3-gallate ≫ epicatechin ≫ epigallocatechin, and higher values in summer and early autumn than in spring. This was also accompanied by an in consistent withering time pattern. Esterified catechins were higher in all samples (100.8-312.3 mg/g) with respect to non-esterified catechins (15.1-37.7 mg/g). Caffeine (6.2-27.7 mg/g) decreased as follows: WTs > GTs ≫ Fl, and inconsistent seasonal and withering patterns were observed among the WTs. Total phenolics (125.9-295.4 mg gallic acid equivalents/g dried extract) and total flavonoids (35.2-69.7 mg rutin equivalents/g dried extract), determined by Folin-Ciocalteu and colorimetric methodologies, were higher in GTs than in WTs and Fl. Concerning the antioxidant patterns, the free radical scavenging activity (FRSA) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) presented EC₅₀ values ranges from 3.6 to 17.3 µg/mL and 4.8 to 16.5 µg/mL, respectively, and ferrous ion-chelating (FIC) activity ranged from 47.1 to 82.8%, highlighting that FRSA was better than butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Tea leaves exhibited, in general, higher activities with respect to tea Fl, and the WT sample plucked in summer and withered for 23 h showed the highest FRAP and FIC activity. In conclusion, this study shows the characteristic variation of GTs, WTs, and Fl of two tea varieties and may support crop quality improvement and promote the valorization of tea Fl.

Flavonoids: Potential Candidates for the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders

Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington's disease (HD), are the most concerning disorders due to the lack of effective therapy and dramatic rise in affected cases. Although these disorders have diverse clinical manifestations, they all share a common cellular stress response. These cellular stress responses including neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, proteotoxicity, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress, which combats with stress conditions. Environmental stress/toxicity weakened the cellular stress response which results in cell damage. Small molecules, such as flavonoids, could reduce cellular stress and have gained much attention in recent years. Evidence has shown the potential use of flavonoids in several ways, such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic, yet their mechanism is still elusive. This review provides an insight into the potential role of flavonoids against cellular stress response that prevent the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders.

Catechins as Model Bioactive Compounds for Biomedical Applications

Research regarding polyphenols has gained prominence over the years because of their potential as pharmacological nutrients. Most polyphenols are flavanols, commonly known as catechins, which are present in high amounts in green tea. Catechins are promising candidates in the field of biomedicine. The health benefits of catechins, notably their antioxidant effects, are related to their chemical structure and the total number of hydroxyl groups. In addition, catechins possess strong activities against several pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. One major limitation of these compounds is low bioavailability. Catechins are poorly absorbed by intestinal barriers. Some protective mechanisms may be required to maintain or even increase the stability and bioavailability of these molecules within living organisms. Moreover, novel delivery systems, such as scaffolds, fibers, sponges, and capsules, have been proposed. This review focuses on the unique structures and bioactive properties of catechins and their role in inflammatory responses as well as provides a perspective on their use in future human health applications.

The Leaf Extract of Coccinia grandis (L.) Voigt Accelerated In Vitro Wound Healing by Reducing Oxidative Stress Injury

The impairment in the regulation of the physiological process in the inflammatory phase of wound healing results in oxidative stress damage, which increases the severity and extends the healing time. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the radical scavenging properties of Coccinia leaf extract and its ability to ameliorate a migration process in vitro. Coccinia is a medicinal plant that was used in ancient times for relieving insect bite itching and swelling. However, the role of Coccinia leaf extract as an antioxidant related to the process of wound healing has never been studied. In this study, we demonstrated that the leaf extract possessed antioxidant properties that acted as a proton donor to neutralize reactive oxygen species with the IC₅₀ value of 4.85 mg/mL of the extract. It could chelate iron with the IC₅₀ value of 21.39 mg/mL of the extract. The leaf extract protected the human fibroblasts and keratinocytes from hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress by increasing cell survival rate by more than 20% in all test doses. The protective property was dose-dependently correlated with the decrease in reactive oxygen species formation. In addition, the leaf extract enhanced the cell migration rate of fibroblasts and keratinocytes up to 23% compared with vehicle control. The results suggested that Coccinia leaf extract may be a potential herb for increasing the wound healing process with its antioxidant capacity and can be used as an herbal ingredient for the utilization of skincare products.

Mapping the Primary and Secondary Metabolomes of Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Fruit and Its Postharvest Antioxidant Potential at Critical Stages of Ripening

Six critical stages corresponding to major morphophysiological events in carob fruit ripening were defined, and changes in the primary and secondary metabolome and in vitro antioxidant capacity were examined in two genotypes collected at low (15 m) and high (510 m) altitudes from genetically identified and georeferenced trees. Soluble carbohydrates were analyzed by HPLC-RI, macro-minerals by ion chromatography coupled to conductivity detection and polyphenols by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-HRMS. spectroscopy facilitated assays for condensed tannins and in vitro free-radical scavenging capacity of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The fruit respiration rate and moisture content declined sharply during the transition from the breaker to green pedicel stage. Sugar accumulation spiked at the onset of fruit coloration and culminated at 498.7 ± 8.4 mg g-1 dry weight (dw) in the late ripe stage, while the ratio of reducing sugars to sucrose decreased from 3.45 ± 0.32 to 0.41 ± 0.02. The total phenolic compounds and condensed tannins declined with ripening, particularly during the transition from the breaker to green pedicel stage. Eighteen polyphenols were identified and quantitated, with catechins and hydrolyzable tannins being dominant until the onset of fruit coloration. The transition to the green pedicel stage signaled a precipitous decline (90.9%) in catechins, hydrolyzable tannins (60.2%) and flavonol glycosides (52.1%) concomitant to the rise in gallic acid, which was putatively fueled by the enzymatic hydrolysis of gallotannins in immature fruit. Catechins, hydrolyzable tannins and flavone glycosides were more abundant at higher altitudes and gallic acid at lower altitudes. An antioxidant capacity was also favored by higher elevations and declined with ripening, particularly after the breaker stage. Correlations with FRAP and DPPH assays were significant for the total phenolic content, condensed tannins, catechins and hydrolyzable tannins. The highest correlation factors were obtained for epigallocatechin-gallate (r = 0.920 and r = 0.900; p < 0.01). Although the sharp drop in hydrolyzable and nonhydrolyzable tannins and catechins compromised the in vitro antioxidant capacity at physiological maturity, it also reduced the astringency and configured a palatable organoleptic fruit profile. These changes unraveled significant episodes in the ripening-related secondary metabolism of the carob fruit. They further highlighted the value of immature carob as a potent source of gallotannins, with putative in vivo anti-inflammatory action, and of catechins beneficial in preventing and protecting against diseases caused by oxidative stress.

Theaflavin ameliorates renal ischemia/reperfusion injury by activating the Nrf2 signalling pathway in vivo and in vitro

Studies have demonstrated that oxidaive stress-induced apoptosis may be the main pathogenic mechanism of renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Theaflavin, a polyphenolic compound extracted from black tea, has been proven to exert strong antioxidant biological function. The objective of the present study was to investigate the potential role of theaflavin on renal I/R injury and its potential molecular mechanism both in vitro and in vivo. C57/BL6 J mice were used to create a model of I/R injury wherein mice were ligated with bilateral renal pedicles for 45 min, and then reperfused for 24 h. A hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) model of TCMK-1 cells was used to simulate I/R in vitro. Theaflavin were administered to the treatment group first and then established the model. Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1), serum creatinine, urea nitrogen, and 24-h urinary protein levels were evaluated and changes in mitochondrial membrane potential and the ultrastructure of mitochondria were observed. Cell viability, oxidative stress damage, and apoptosis were assessed. The expression levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream target genes HO-1 and NQO1 were evaluated. Our results revealed that pretreatment with theaflavin significantly inhibited I/R- and H/R-induced renal injury and cell apoptosis. Theaflavin improved mitochondrial dysfunction by attenuating mitochondrial damage and promoting mitochondrial membrane potential. Theaflavin pretreatment significantly reduced malondialdehyde content, while enhancing superoxide dismutase activity in vivo and in vitro. It also reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis mainly by upregulating Nrf2 and its downstream targets in TCMK-1 cells. Thus, theaflavin exerted a protective effect against renal I/R injury by inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis via activation of the Nrf2-NQO1/HO-1 pathway as well as correcting mitochondrial dysfunction, thereby presenting its potential as a clinical therapeutic in cases of acute kidney injury.

Effect of aqueous extracts of Ficus vogeliana Miq and Tieghemella africana Pierre in 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene -induced skin cancer in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality. Tieghemella africana and Ficus vogeliana are used in traditional medicine to treat cancers.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant, antiangiogenic and anti-tumor activities of these plant extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To achieve it, phytochemical screening, antioxidant activity and antiangiogenic activity were assessed. Thereafter, the anti-tumor activity was determined using skin tumorigenesis induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene.

RESULTS

The phytochemical result analysis showed that both plant extracts were rich in polyphenols, alkaloids and terpene compounds and possessed good antioxidant activity based on DPPH radical scavenging (IC₅₀ = 9.70 μg/mL and 4.60 μg/mL and AAI values of 5.20 and 10.88) and strong total antioxidant capacity (115.44 VtCE (mg)/g of dry plant extract and 87.37 VtCE (mg)/g of dry plant extract, respectively). Additionally, both plant extracts possessed antiangiogenic activities (IC₅₀ = 53.43 μg/mL and 92.68 μg/mL, respectively), which correlated with significant antitumor activities when using 35 mg/kg (65.02% and 77.54%) and 70 mg/kg of extracts (81.07% and 88.18%).

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, this study illustrates the promising usage of Tieghemella africana and Ficus vogeliana plant extracts in treating skin cancer. However, further characterization of the extracts must be performed to isolate the most active anticancer compound.

Early metabolic priming under differing carbon sufficiency conditions influences peach fruit quality development

Crop load management is an important preharvest factor to balance yield, quality, and maturation in peach. However, few studies have addressed how preharvest factors impact metabolism on fruit of equal maturity. An experiment was conducted to understand how carbon competition impacts fruit internal quality and metabolism in 'Cresthaven' peach trees by imposing distinct thinning severities. Fruit quality was evaluated at three developmental stages (S2, S3, S4), while controlling for equal maturity using non-destructive visual to near-infrared spectroscopy. Non-targeted metabolite profiling was used to characterize fruit at each developmental stage from trees that were unthinned (carbon starvation) or thinned (carbon sufficiency). Carbon sufficiency resulted in significantly higher fruit dry matter content and soluble solids concentration at harvest when compared to the carbon starved, underscoring the true impact of carbon manipulation on fruit quality. Significant differences in the fruit metabolome between treatments were observed at S2 when phenotypes were similar, while less differences were observed at S4 when the carbon sufficient fruit exhibited a superior phenotype. This suggests a potential metabolic priming effect on fruit quality when carbon is sufficiently supplied during early fruit growth and development. In particular, elevated levels of catechin may suggest a link between secondary/primary metabolism and fruit quality development.

Catechins within the Biopolymer Matrix-Design Concepts and Bioactivity Prospects

Epidemiological studies and clinical investigations proposed that catechins extracts alone may not provide a sufficient level of bioactivities and promising therapeutic effects to achieve health benefits due to a number of constraints related to poor oral absorption, limited bioavailability, sensitivity to oxidation, etc. Modern scientific studies have reported numerous techniques for the design of micro- and nano-bio-delivery systems as novel and promising strategies to overcome these obstacles and to enhance catechins' therapeutic activity. The objective assessment of their benefits, however, requires a critical comparative estimation of the advantages and disadvantages of the designed catechins-biocarrier systems, their biological activities and safety administration aspects. In this respect, the present review objectively outlines, compares and assesses the recent advances related to newly developed design concepts of catechins' encapsulation into various biopolymer carriers and their release behaviour, with a special emphasis on the specific physiological biofunctionalities of the innovative bioflavonoid/biopolymer delivery systems.

Antioxidant and antibacterial compounds from feijoa leaf extracts obtained by pressurized liquid extraction and supercritical fluid extraction

This work investigated the efficiency of pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) and supercritical fluid extraction with cosolvent (SFE) in obtaining feijoa leaf extracts with high antioxidant and antibacterial activities. PLE was performed in customized equipment with environmentally friendly solvents, at 40/80 °C, in dynamic and static mode, and SFE was carried out for 210 min at 30 MPa, 55 °C and 15% ethanol-water as cosolvent. PLE extract (80 °C/ethanol-water/dynamic) provided the highest yield, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activities, but it was not effective as antibacterial agent. In contrast, SFE extract exhibited effectiveness against S. aureus, E. coli, and S. typhimurium, with minimum inhibitory concentration values from 14,211 to 3,553 µg.mL^-1. Finally, gallic acid, catechin and isoquercetin were the major phenolics identified by liquid chromatography. Our findings revealed that feijoa leaf extracts by PLE and SFE have remarkable bioactivity, presenting a great potential to be used as natural food additives.

Nutraceutical and antimicrobial potentials of Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranean): A review

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc.) [BGN] is an easy-to-cultivate vegetable crop neglected over the past years. It is a drought-tolerant crop with nutritional and medicinal values and as a result, the crop is referred to as nutraceuticals. Based on this, there exist a need to review the beneficial potential (nutraceutical value) of this neglected and underutilized crop to protect and promote its cultivation for food (source of nutrients) and medicines especially among rural poor communities in sub-Saharan Africa. This review systematically examines the background information and uses of BGN. The antimicrobial properties of BGN were also considered and examined to ascertain its nutraceutical importance. BGN has been reported as a crop possessing antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Clinically, the extracts of BGN have been reported to exhibit antimicrobial activities against bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp. pneumoniae ATCC 700603, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Staphylococcus aureus subsp. aureus ATCC 33591, Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, yeast (Candida albicans) and mold (Aspergillus niger). This review outlines the uses of BGN as a functional food crop as well as its nutraceutical and antimicrobial potentials. However, there exist paucity of knowledge and literature on the crop's antimicrobial activities especially against plant pathogens of economic importance. Hence, this review proposes that more research be geared towards assessing the nutraceutical value and antimicrobial potentials of this crop against plant pathogens of economic importance and the promotion of the crop's cultivation.

Potentials of Musa Species Fruits against Oxidative Stress-Induced and Diet-Linked Chronic Diseases: In Vitro and In Vivo Implications of Micronutritional Factors and Dietary Secondary Metabolite Compounds

Nutritional quality and the well-being of the body system are directly linked aspects of human survival. From the unborn foetus to adulthood, the need for sustainable access to micronutrient-rich foods is pertinent and the global consumption of banana and plantain fruits, in effect, contributes to the alleviation of the scourge of malnutrition. This review is particularly aimed at evaluating the pharmacological dimensions through the biological mechanisms of Musa fruits in the body, which represent correlations with their constituent micronutrient factors and dietary polyphenolic constituents such as minerals, vitamin members, anthocyanins, lutein, α-,β- carotenes, neoxanthins and cryptoxanthins, epi- and gallo catechins, catecholamines, 3-carboxycoumarin, β-sitosterol, monoterpenoids, with series of analytical approaches for the various identified compounds being highlighted therein. Derivative value-products from the compartments (flesh and peel) of Musa fruits are equally highlighted, bringing forth the biomedicinal and nutritional relevance, including the potentials of Musa species in dietary diversification approaches.

Enhancement of Phthalocyanine Mediated Photodynamic Therapy by Catechin on Lung Cancer Cells

Worldwide, lung cancer remains one of the leading cancers with increasing mortality rates. Though chemotherapy for lung cancer is effective, it is always accompanied by unavoidable and grave side effects. Photodynamic therapy (PDT), using novel photosensitizers, is an advanced treatment method with relatively few side effects. Plant products are emerging as potent photosensitizers (PSs). The dose-dependent effect of Catechin (CA) (20–100 µM) on cellular morphological changes, cell viability, cytotoxicity, proliferation, DNA damage and apoptosis were studied on A549 adenocarcinoma alveolar basal epithelial cells. The effect of CA, along with Zinc phthalocyanine PS at 680 nm and 5 J/cm² fluency was also studied. As the doses of CA increased, the results showed a pattern of increased cytotoxicity, accompanied by decreased cell viability and proliferation in A549 cells. Also, at 52 µM (IC₅₀), CA in combination with PS significantly increased the cytotoxicity, DNA damage, and apoptosis, as compared to control and PS alone, treated cells in PDT experiments. These findings leave a possible thread that CA can be used in the application of phyto-photodynamic therapy of cancer in future.

Advancements in therapeutic drugs targeting of senescence

Aging leads to a high burden on society, both medically and economically. Cellular senescence plays an essential role in the initiation of aging and age-related diseases. Recent studies have highlighted the therapeutic value of senescent cell deletion in natural aging and many age-related disorders. However, the therapeutic strategies for manipulating cellular senescence are still at an early stage of development. Among these strategies, therapeutic drugs that target cellular senescence are arguably the most highly anticipated. Many recent studies have demonstrated that a variety of drugs exhibit healthy aging effects. In this review, we summarize different types of drugs promoting healthy aging – such as senolytics, senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) inhibitors, and nutrient signaling regulators – and provide an update on their potential therapeutic merits. Taken together, our review synthesizes recent advancements in the therapeutic potentialities of drugs promoting healthy aging with regard to their clinical implications.

Detection of Vaginal Metabolite Changes in Premature Rupture of Membrane Patients in Third Trimester Pregnancy: a Prospective Cohort Study

Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is usually associated with pregnant and neonatal complications. Most of the PROM cases are caused by ascending asymptomatic genital infection. In China, PROM (15.3%) is more common than spontaneous preterm labor (7.3%) and leads to more adverse pregnancy outcomes. Here, we designed a prospective cohort study to measure the metabolomics changes in vaginal swab samples and explored their potential contribution to PROM. A total of 260 differentially expressed metabolites were identified and further analyzed. In the PROM group, N-acetyl-D-galactosamine and sucrose were downregulated (P = 0.0025, P = 0.0195, respectively), both of which are the upstream metabolites of the glycolysis pathway. Furthermore, estriol 3-sulfate 16-glucuronide (P = 0.0154) and 2-methoxy-17beta-estradiol 3-glucosiduronic acid (P = 0.004), two final metabolites in steroid hormone biosynthesis, were both downregulated in the PROM group. Finally, we found two catechin metabolites (epigallocatechin-7-glucuronide, P = 0.0009; 4'-methyl-epigallocatechin-7-glucuronide, P = 0.01) as well as DL-citrulline (P = 0.0393) were also significantly downregulated in the PROM group compared with the healthy control (HC) group, which are related to important antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in the human body. Altogether, metabolite changes in glycolysis, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and antioxidant/anti-inflammatory pathways may contribute to (or be a consequence of) vaginal dysbiosis and PROM. Metabolite pathway analysis is a new and promising approach to further investigate the mechanism of PROM and help prevent its unfavorable pregnant outcomes at a functional level. Trial registration number: ChiCTR2000034721.

Insights into the potential benefits of black soybean (Glycine max L.) polyphenols in lifestyle diseases

Black soybean (Glycine max L.), a cultivar containing abundant polyphenols in its seed coat such as anthocyanins and flavan-3-ols, has been reported to possess various health benefits toward lifestyle diseases. In this review article, the safety evaluation of polyphenol-rich black soybean seed coat extract (BE) and absorption of BE polyphenols are summarized. Additionally, we describe the antioxidant activity of BE polyphenols and their ability to induce antioxidant enzymes. The health benefits of BE and its polyphenols, such as anti-obesity and anti-hyperglycemic activities through the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase and translocation of glucose transporter 4, respectively, are also discussed. Furthermore, we found that black soybean polyphenols were involved in the improvement of vascular function. These emerging data require further investigation in scientific studies and human trials to evaluate the prevention of lifestyle diseases using black soybean polyphenols.

In Vivo Pharmacokinetic Analysis Utilizing Non-Targeted and Targeted Mass Spectrometry and In Vitro Assay against Transient Receptor Potential Channels of Maobushisaishinto and Its Constituent Asiasari Radix

The Japanese traditional medicine maobushisaishinto (MBST) has been prescribed for treating upper respiratory tract infections, such as a common cold. However, its mode of action is poorly understood, especially concerning the MBST constituent Asiasari Radix (AR). In this study, we focused on AR, with an objective of clarifying its bioavailable active ingredients and role within MBST by performing pharmacokinetic and pharmacological studies. Firstly, we performed qualitative non-targeted analysis utilizing high-resolution mass spectrometry to explore the bioavailable ingredients of AR as well as quantitative targeted analysis to reveal plasma concentrations following oral administration of MBST in rats. Secondly, we performed in vitro pharmacological study of bioavailable AR ingredients in addition to other ingredients of MBST to confirm any agonistic activities against transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. As a result, methyl kakuol and other compounds derived from AR were detected in the rat plasma and showed agonistic activity against TRPA1. This study suggests that methyl kakuol as well as other compounds have the potential to be an active ingredient in AR and thus presumably would contribute in part to the effects exerted by MBST.

Nutrition, Bioenergetics, and Metabolic Syndrome

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global nutrition report shows that whilst part of the world’s population starves, the other part suffers from obesity and associated complications. A balanced diet counterparts these extreme conditions with the proper proportion, composition, quantity, and presence of macronutrients, micronutrients, and bioactive compounds. However, little is known on the way these components exert any influence on our health. These nutrients aiming to feed our bodies, our tissues, and our cells, first need to reach mitochondria, where they are decomposed into CO₂ and H₂O to obtain energy. Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell and mainly responsible for nutrients metabolism, but they are also the main source of oxidative stress and cell death by apoptosis. Unappropriated nutrients may support mitochondrial to become the Trojan horse in the cell. This review aims to provide an approach to the role that some nutrients exert on mitochondria as a major contributor to high prevalent Western conditions including metabolic syndrome (MetS), a constellation of pathologic conditions which promotes type II diabetes and cardiovascular risk. Clinical and experimental data extracted from in vitro animal and cell models further demonstrated in patients, support the idea that a balanced diet, in a healthy lifestyle context, promotes proper bioenergetic and mitochondrial function, becoming the best medicine to prevent the onset and progression of MetS. Any advance in the prevention and management of these prevalent complications help to face these challenging global health problems, by ameliorating the quality of life of patients and reducing the associated sociosanitary burden.

Cold acclimation and freezing tolerance in three Eucalyptus species: A metabolomic and proteomic approach

The ability of plants to cope with frost events relies on the physiological and molecular responses triggered by cold temperatures. This process, named acclimation, involves reprogramming gene expression in order to adjust metabolism. Planted Eucalyptus species are highly productive but most of them are frost sensitive. However, acclimation process varies among species and environmental conditions, promoting more or less frost damage in young plantations of frost-prone areas. To identify metabolites and proteins responsible for these differences, two acclimation regimes were imposed to seedling of Eucalyptus grandis Hill ex Maiden (Eg), Eucalyptus dunnii Maiden (Ed) and Eucalyptus benthamii Maiden Cambage (Eb), and leaves submitted to biochemical and molecular analyses. Further, seedlings were used for simulated frosts in order to test the acclimation status effect on frost tolerance. Eb showed higher frost tolerance than Ed and Eg under control and acclimation scenarios, possibly due to its higher accumulation of phenolics, anthocyanins and soluble sugars as well as lower levels of photosynthetic pigments and related proteins. Also, a rise in frost tolerance and in osmoprotectants and antioxidants was observed for all the species due to cold acclimation treatment. Interestingly, metabolic profiles differed among species, suggesting different mechanisms to endure frosts and, probably, different requirements for cold acclimation. Shotgun proteomics reinforced differences and commonalities and supported metabolome observations. An in depth understanding of these responses could help to safeguard planted forests productivity through breeding of tolerant genetic material.

Pathophysiology of atherosclerosis: Association of risk factors and treatment strategies using plant-based bioactive compounds

Under physiological conditions, endothelial cells act as protective barrier which prevents direct contact of blood with circulating factors via production of tissue plasminogen activator. Risk factors of metabolic disorders are responsible to induce endothelial dysfunction and may consequently lead to prognosis of atherosclerosis. This article summarizes the process of atherosclerosis which involves number of sequences including formation and interaction of AGE-RAGE, activation of polyol pathway, protein kinase C, and hexosamine-mediated pathway. All these mechanisms can lead to the development of oxidative stress which may further aggravate condition. Different pharmacological interventions are being used to treat atherosclerosis, however, these might be associated with mild to severe side effects. Therefore, plant-based bioactive compounds having potential to combat and prevent atherosclerosis in diabetic patients are attaining recent focus. By understanding process of development and mechanisms involved in atherosclerotic plaque formation, these bioactive compounds can be better option for future therapeutic interventions for atherosclerosis treatment. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Atherosclerosis is one of major underlying disorders of cardiovascular diseases which occur through multiple mechanisms and is associated with metabolic disorders. Conventional therapeutic interventions are not only used to treat atherosclerosis, but are also commonly associated with mild to severe side effects. Therefore, nowadays, bioactive compounds having potential to combat and prevent atherosclerosis in diabetic patients are preferred. By understanding mechanisms involved in atherosclerotic plaque formation, bioactive compounds can be better understood for treatment of atherosclerosis. In this manuscript, we have focused on treatment strategies of atherosclerosis using bioactive compounds notably alkaloids and flavonoids having diverse pharmacological and therapeutic potentials with special focus on the mechanism of action of these bioactive compounds suitable for treatment of atherosclerosis. This manuscript will provide the scientific insights of bioactive compounds to researchers who are working in the area of drug discovery and development to control pathogenesis and development of atherosclerosis and its associated cardiometabolic disorders.

Assessment of the Nutritional and Medicinal Potential of Tubers from Hairy Stork's-Bill (Erodium crassifolium L 'Hér), a Wild Plant Species Inhabiting Arid Southeast Mediterranean Regions

Emerging needs for diversifying human diet and to explore novel therapeutic procedures have led to increasing attempts to retrieve traditional nourishments and recruit beneficial wild plant species. Species of the genus Erodium (Geraniaceae) harbor medicinal indications and substances known from folklore and scientific research. Hairy stork's bill (Erodium crassifolium L'Hér), is a small hemicryptophyte that inhabits arid southeast Mediterranean regions. E. crassifolium is among the very few Geraniaceae species known to produce tubers. Traditional knowledge holds that the tubers are edible and used by Bedouin tribes. However, no scientific information was found regarding nutrition or medicinal properties of these tubers. The objectives of our project are to unravel potential nutritional and medicinal benefits of the tubers, conduct initial steps towards domestication and develop agricultural practices enhancing E. crassifolium tuber yield and quality. Tubers show high water content (90%), low caloric value (23 Kcal 100^-1 g) and considerable contents of minerals and vitamins. In addition, the tubers contain significant amounts of catechins and epigallocatechin, polyphenolic compounds known for their antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative activities. Furthermore, in vitro experiments demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects on human cell cultures. E. crassifolium is highly responsive to environmental changes; fertigation (700 mm) increased tuber yield by 10-fold, compared to simulated wild conditions (50-200 mm). These results indicate a significant potential of E. crassifolium becoming a valuable crop species. Therefore, there is a need for continued efforts in domestication, including ecotype selection, breeding, development of suitable agricultural practices and further exploration of its medicinal benefits.

Microbiota Changes Due to Grape Seed Extract Diet Improved Intestinal Homeostasis and Decreased Fatness in Parental Broiler Hens

In poultry, the selection of broilers for growth performance has induced a deterioration in the health of the parental hens associated with poor reproductive efficiency. To improve these parameters, we administered to laying parental broiler hens a regular diet supplemented or not (Control) with a moderate (1%) or a high level (2%) of grape seed extract (GSE). The 1% GSE diet was administered from a young age (from 4 to 40 weeks of age) and the high level of 2% GSE was administered only during a 2-week period (from 38 to 40 weeks of age) in the laying period. The analysis of 40-week-old hens showed that 2% GSE displayed a reduction in the fat tissue and an improvement in fertility with heavier and more resistant eggs. Seven monomer phenolic metabolites of GSE were significantly measured in the plasma of the 2% GSE hens. GSE supplementation increased the relative abundance of the following bacteria populations: Bifidobacteriaceae, Lactobacilliaceae and Lachnospiraceae. In conclusion, a supplementation period of only 2 weeks with 2% GSE is sufficient to improve the metabolic and laying parameters of breeder hens through a modification in the microbiota.

Antioxidant Therapies and Oxidative Stress in Friedreich´s Ataxia: The Right Path or Just a Diversion?

Friedreich´s ataxia is the commonest autosomal recessive ataxia among population of European descent. Despite the huge advances performed in the last decades, a cure still remains elusive. One of the most studied hallmarks of the disease is the increased production of oxidative stress markers in patients and models. This feature has been the motivation to develop treatments that aim to counteract such boost of free radicals and to enhance the production of antioxidant defenses. In this work, we present and critically review those "antioxidant" drugs that went beyond the disease´s models and were approved for its application in clinical trials. The evaluation of these trials highlights some crucial aspects of the FRDA research. On the one hand, the analysis contributes to elucidate whether oxidative stress plays a central role or whether it is only an epiphenomenon. On the other hand, it comments on some limitations in the current trials that complicate the analysis and interpretation of their outcome. We also include some suggestions that will be interesting to implement in future studies and clinical trials.

Control of Reactive Oxygen Species for the Prevention of Parkinson's Disease: The Possible Application of Flavonoids

Oxidative stress reflects an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defense systems, and it can be associated with the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, and Parkinson's disease (PD). The application of antioxidants, which can defend against oxidative stress, is able to detoxify the reactive intermediates and prevent neurodegeneration resulting from excessive ROS production. There are many reports showing that numerous flavonoids, a large group of natural phenolic compounds, can act as antioxidants and the application of flavonoids has beneficial effects in the adult brain. For instance, it is well known that the long-term consumption of the green tea-derived flavonoids catechin and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) can attenuate the onset of PD. Also, flavonoids such as ampelopsin and pinocembrin can inhibit mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal death through the regulation of gene expression of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. Additionally, it is well established that many flavonoids exhibit anti-apoptosis and anti-inflammatory effects through cellular signaling pathways, such as those involving (ERK), glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), and (Akt), resulting in neuroprotection. In this review article, we have described the oxidative stress involved in PD and explained the therapeutic potential of flavonoids to protect the nigrostriatal DA system, which may be useful to prevent PD.

Interactions between bioactive components determine antioxidant, cytotoxic and nutrigenomic activity of cocoa powder extract

Numerous studies have shown, rather disappointingly, that isolated bioactive phytochemicals are not as biologically effective as natural plant products. Such a discrepancy may be explained by the concept of food synergy, which was verified in this research for cocoa extract versus its major components with regard to cancer chemoprevention. The evaluation embraced the relationship between redox properties evaluated in cell-free systems with the aid of free radicals scavenging method and differential pulse voltammetry, and redox associated anticarcinogenic activities (cellular antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, nutrigenomic activity) in human colon adenocarcinoma cell line exposed to either cocoa powder extract or artificial mixtures of cocoa bioactives at matching concentrations. In contrast to expectations, our results showed that the stepwise enrichment with antioxidants caused no gradual increase in the antioxidant activity of the model mixtures; also, these model mixtures did not reach the reducing potential of cocoa in the cell-free systems or cellular model employed. Further, the biological activities examined in colon adenocarcinoma cells did not alter in a stepwise manner that could reflect the gradual changes in composition of bioactive ingredients. In conclusion, the experiments presented here showed that the growing complexity of a mixture of phytochemicals seems to create a new redox bioactive substance rather than enrich the mixture with new activities, characteristic of the compound added. It follows that no simple, predictable relationship can be expected between the chemopreventive potential and the composition of real food items containing a complicated set of non-toxic redox active ingredients. Our observations suggest that the interactions between different bioactive compounds and food matrix components are cooperating factors determining the final bioactivity of foods.

Dietary Antioxidants and Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the depletion of dopaminergic neurons in the basal ganglia, the movement center of the brain. Approximately 60,000 people are diagnosed with PD in the United States each year. Although the direct cause of PD can vary, accumulation of oxidative stress-induced neuronal damage due to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or impaired intracellular antioxidant defenses invariably occurs at the cellular levels. Pharmaceuticals such as dopaminergic prodrugs and agonists can alleviate some of the symptoms of PD. Currently, however, there is no treatment to halt the progression of PD pathology. Due to the nature of PD, a long and progressive neurodegenerative process, strategies to prevent or delay PD pathology may be well suited to lifestyle changes like dietary modification with antioxidant-rich foods to improve intracellular redox homeostasis. In this review, we discuss cellular and genetic factors that increase oxidative stress in PD. We also discuss neuroprotective roles of dietary antioxidants including vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, selenium, and polyphenols along with their potential mechanisms to alleviate PD pathology.

Comprehensive characterization of phytochemicals and biological activities of the Italian ancient apple 'Mela Rosa dei Monti Sibillini'

This study was carried out to characterize extracts from nine samples of the apple 'Mela Rosa dei Monti Sibillini' (MR) and to assess the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The extracts were analysed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with photodiode array detector and mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS) for 20 phytochemicals. The extracts from the lyophilized material (ELM) were richer in polyphenolic compounds than the dried ones (EDM). The MR extracts contained noteworthy amounts of the investigated analytes compared to one sample of the commercial varieties Annurca, Golden Delicious and Granny Smith used as reference. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the part of the fruit seems to have a significant influence on the chemical composition of the final extract; thus, the peel extracts exhibited higher levels of phenolic compounds, especially epicatechin, procyanidin B2 and phloridzin, and triterpenes than the pulp ones. In general, the lyophilized material showed higher antioxidant activity than the dried material. The strong antioxidant capacity of the MR has also been revealed by the DPPH, ABTS, FRAP and Folin-Ciocalteau assays. The ELM of MR significantly reduced reactive oxygen species in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated mouse brain microglia cells (BV-2 cells). Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis demonstrated that the EDM and ELM of MR were effective in reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes in BV-2 and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). These results contribute to the exploitation of this ancient variety as a source of nutraceuticals.

Genoprotective activities of plant natural substances in cancer and chemopreventive strategies in the context of 3P medicine

Severe durable changes may occur to the DNA structure caused by exogenous and endogenous risk factors initiating the process of carcinogenesis. By evidence, a large portion of malignancies have been demonstrated as being preventable. Moreover, the targeted prevention of cancer onset is possible, due to unique properties of plant bioactive compounds. Although genoprotective effects of phytochemicals have been well documented, there is an evident lack of articles which would systematically present the spectrum of anticancer effects by phytochemicals, plant extracts, and plant-derived diet applicable to stratified patient groups at the level of targeted primary (cancer development) and secondary (cancer progression and metastatic disease) prevention. Consequently, clinical implementation of knowledge accumulated in the area is still highly restricted. To stimulate coherent co-development of the dedicated plant bioactive compound investigation on one hand and comprehensive cancer preventive strategies on the other hand, the current paper highlights and deeply analyses relevant evidence available in the area. Key molecular mechanisms are presented to detail genoprotective and anticancer activities of plants and phytochemicals. Clinical implementation is discussed. Based on the presented evidence, advanced chemopreventive strategies in the context of 3P medicine are considered.

AOP1, a New Live Cell Assay for the Direct and Quantitative Measure of Intracellular Antioxidant Effects

Taking advantage of Light Up Cell System (LUCS) technology, which allows for fine monitoring of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production inside live cells, a new assay called Anti Oxidant Power 1 (AOP1) was developed to specifically measure ROS and/or free-radical scavenging effects inside living cells. This method is quantitative and EC₅₀s obtained from AOP1 dose-response experiments were determined in order to classify the intracellular antioxidant efficacy of 15 well known antioxidant compounds with different hydrophilic properties. Six of them (epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), ethoxyquin, resveratrol) gave EC₅₀s in the range of 7–64 μM, four (Trolox, catechin, epicatechin, EUK134) in the range of 0.14 to 1 mM, and 5 (sulforaphane, astaxanthin, α- and γ-tocopherols, vitamin E acetate) showed only partial or no effect. Interestingly, effects with measurable EC₅₀s were observed for compounds with hydrophilic properties (LogP ≤ 5.3), while all antioxidants known to act at the plasma membrane level (LogP ≥ 10.3) had partial or no effect. Sulforaphane, a hydrophilic but strict Keap1/Nrf2 pathway enhancer, did not show any effect either. Importantly, AOP1 assay captures both antioxidant and prooxidant effects. Taken together, these results led us to the conclusion that AOP1 assay measures antioxidant effect of compounds that selectively enter the cell, and act as free radical scavengers in the cytosol and/or nucleus level.

Propofol induces ROS-mediated intrinsic apoptosis and migration in triple-negative breast cancer cells

Propofol is widely applied in general anesthesia owing to its short effect and rapid recovery. Apart from its anesthetic advantages, propofol has also been observed to inhibit the growth of several types of cancer cells. Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in females worldwide and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) constitutes 15-20% of all breast cancer cases. TNBC is characterized by a high recurrence rate, which is associated with its high mortality rate. The present study aimed to evaluate apoptosis in MDA-MB-468 cells treated with propofol. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to assess proliferation in cells treated with different concentrations of propofol. In addition, Annexin V-FITC was used to detect apoptosis. Furthermore, the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was examined. The relative expression of proteins in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, such as Bak, Bax, Bcl-2, Cytochrome c, apoptotic peptidase-activating factor 1 (Apaf-1), Caspase 3 and Caspase 9, were calculated relative to GAPDH with western blot analysis. A wound healing assay was performed to examine the effect of propofol on MDA-MB-468 cell migration. The present study revealed that propofol inhibited the proliferation and increased the level of ROS in MDA-MB-468 cells. The expression levels of Cytochrome c, Apaf-1, Bax, Bak and cleaved Caspase 3/9 were upregulated compared with GAPDH. The level of Bcl-2 protein was upregulated by propofol at a concentration of 5 µM and downregulated at concentrations of 10 and 20 µM. In the wound-healing assay, propofol reduced the scratch distance and area. Taken together, the results of the present study suggested that propofol may induce ROS-mediated intrinsic apoptosis and promote migration in TNBC cells.

Coloured Rice Phenolic Extracts Increase Expression of Genes Associated with Insulin Secretion in Rat Pancreatic Insulinoma β-cells

Glucose-induced oxidative stress is associated with the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may dysregulate the expression of genes controlling insulin secretion leading to β-cell dysfunction, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study investigated the impact of coloured rice phenolic extracts (CRPEs) on the expression of key genes associated with β-cell function in pancreatic β-cells (INS-1E). These genes included glucose transporter 2 (Glut2), silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 1 (Sirt1), mitochondrial transcription factor A (Tfam), pancreatic/duodenal homeobox protein 1 (Pdx-1) and insulin 1 (Ins1). INS-1E cells were cultured in high glucose (25 mM) to induce glucotoxic stress conditions (HGSC) and in normal glucose conditions (NGC-11.1 mM) to represent normal β-cell function. Cells were treated with CRPEs derived from two coloured rice cultivars, Purple and Yunlu29-red varieties at concentrations ranged from 50 to 250 µg/mL. CRPEs upregulated the expression of Glut2, Sirt1 and Pdx-1 significantly at 250 µg/mL under HGSC. CRPEs from both cultivars also upregulated Glut2, Sirt1, Tfam, Pdx-1 and Ins1 markedly at 250 µg/mL under NGC with Yunlu29 having the greatest effect. These data suggest that CRPEs may reduce β-cell dysfunction in T2DM by upregulating the expression of genes involved in insulin secretion pathways.