Molecular effects of fermented papaya preparation on oxidative damage, MAP Kinase activation and modulation of the benzo[a]pyrene mediated genotoxicity

MYO-Inositol In Fermented Sugar Matrix Improves Human Macrophage Function

SCOPE

Reactive oxygen species production by innate immune cells plays a central role in host defense against invading pathogens at wound-site. A weakened hos-defense results in persistent infection leading to wound chronicity. Fermented Papaya Preparation (FPP), a complex sugar matrix, bolstered respiratory burst activity and improved wound healing outcomes in chronic wound patients. The objective of the current study was to identify underlying molecular factor/s responsible for augmenting macrophage host defense mechanisms following FPP supplementation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In depth LC-MS/MS analysis of cells supplemented with FPP led to identification of myo-inositol as a key determinant of FPP activity towards improving macrophage function. Myo-inositol, in quantities that is present in FPP, significantly improved macrophage respiratory burst and phagocytosis via de novo synthesis pathway of ISYNA1. Additionally, myo-inositol transporters, HMIT and SMIT1, played a significant role in such activity. Blocking these pathways using siRNA attenuated FPP-induced improved macrophage host defense activities. FPP supplementation emerges as a novel approach to increase intracellular myo-inositol levels. Such supplementation also modified wound microenvironment in chronic wound patients to augment myo-inositol levels in wound fluid.

CONCLUSION

These observations indicate that myo-inositol in FPP influences multiple aspects of macrophage function critical for host defense against invading pathogens. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Beneficial Role of Carica papaya Extracts and Phytochemicals on Oxidative Stress and Related Diseases: A Mini Review

Simple Summary

This review highlights the medicinal benefits of a natural remedy, the Carica papaya extracts and its phytochemicals. In this review, the potential of Carica papaya against various conditions, including cancer, inflammation, aging, healing of the skin, and lifelong diseases has been summarized and discussed. In short, more research and development should focus on this natural remedy that can potentially act as a prophylaxis against chronic diseases.

Abstract

Oxidative stress is a result of disruption in the balance between antioxidants and pro-oxidants in which subsequently impacting on redox signaling, causing cell and tissue damages. It leads to a range of medical conditions including inflammation, skin aging, impaired wound healing, chronic diseases and cancers but these conditions can be managed properly with the aid of antioxidants. This review features various studies to provide an overview on how Carica papaya help counteract oxidative stress via various mechanisms of action closely related to its antioxidant properties and eventually improving the management of various oxidative stress-related health conditions. Carica papaya is a topical plant species discovered to contain high amounts of natural antioxidants that can usually be found in their leaves, fruits and seeds. It contains various chemical compounds demonstrate significant antioxidant properties including caffeic acid, myricetin, rutin, quercetin, α-tocopherol, papain, benzyl isothiocyanate (BiTC), and kaempferol. Therefore, it can counteract pro-oxidants via a number of signaling pathways that either promote the expression of antioxidant enzymes or reduce ROS production. These signaling pathways activate the antioxidant defense mechanisms that protect the body against both intrinsic and extrinsic oxidative stress. To conclude, Carica papaya can be incorporated into medications or supplements to help manage the health conditions driven by oxidative stress and further studies are needed to investigate the potential of its chemical components to manage various chronic diseases.

Beneficial Effects of Fermented Papaya Preparation (FPP®) Supplementation on Redox Balance and Aging in a Mouse Model

In recent decades much attention has been paid to how dietary antioxidants may positively affect the human health, including the beneficial effects of fermented foods and beverages. Fermented Papaya Preparation (FPP^®) has been shown to represent a valuable approach to obtain systemic antioxidants effect. In this study, we wanted to verify whether FPP^® had a clear and scientifically supported in vivo anti-aging effect together with the induction of a systemic antioxidant reaction. To this purpose we daily treated a mouse model suitable for aging studies (C57BL/6J) with FPP^®-supplemented water from either the 6th weeks (early treatment) or the 51th weeks (late treatment) of age as compared to mice receiving only tap water. After 10 months of FPP^® treatment, we evaluated the telomerase activity, antioxidants and Reactive Oxygen Species ROS plasmatic levels and the telomeres length in the bone marrow and ovaries in both mice groups. The results showed that the daily FPP^® assumption induced increase in telomeres length in bone marrow and ovary, together with an increase in the plasmatic levels of telomerase activity, and antioxidant levels, with a decrease of ROS. Early treatment resulted to be more effective, suggesting a potential key role of FPP^® in preventing the age-related molecular damages.

Evaluation of anti-dengue activity of Carica papaya aqueous leaf extract and its role in platelet augmentation

Dengue disease is characterized by a marked decrease in platelet count, which is life threatening. In the present study, we investigated the antiviral activity of an aqueous extract of Carica papaya leaves (PLE) against dengue virus (DENV) and its effect on platelet augmentation. The anti-dengue activity of PLE in DENV-infected THP-1 cells was examined by immunoblotting and flow cytometry. The effect of PLE on erythrocyte damage was investigated using hemolytic and anti-hemolytic assays. Virus-infected THP-1 cells were assayed for IFN-α secretion. The effect of PLE on platelet augmentation in rats with cyclophosphamide-induced thrombocytopenia was also investigated. The platelet count of blood from the retro-orbital plexus of rats was determined on the 1^st, 4^th, 7^th, 11^th and 14^th day of study. On the 14^th day, the rats were sacrificed for histopathological examination of the liver, kidney and spleen. Plasma of thrombocytopenic rats was tested for thrombopoietin (TPO) and IL-6 secretion. The data suggest that PLE significantly decreases the expression of the envelope and NS1 proteins in DENV-infected THP-1 cells. A marked decrease in intracellular viral load upon PLE treatment confirmed its antiviral activity. This also resulted in a significant decrease in erythrocyte damage and hydrogen-peroxide-induced lipid peroxidation. A significant increase in the number of platelets was found in thrombocytopenic rats treated with PLE, along with an increase in IL-6 and TPO levels. These findings suggest that PLE can potentially be used as an antiviral agent, as it helps in platelet augmentation and exhibits antiviral activity against DENV.

Oral Administration of Fermented Papaya (FPP®) Controls the Growth of a Murine Melanoma through the In Vivo Induction of a Natural Antioxidant Response

Prolonged oxidative stress may play a key role in tumor development. Antioxidant molecules are contained in many foods and seem to have a potential role in future anti-tumor strategies. Among the natural antioxidants the beneficial effect of Fermented Papaya (FPP^®) is well known. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of orally administered FPP^® in either the prevention or treatment of a murine model of melanoma. The tumor growth was analyzed together with the blood levels of both oxidants (ROS) and anti-oxidants (SOD-1 and GSH). The results showed that FPP^® controlled tumor growth, reducing the tumor mass of about three to seven times vs. untreated mice. The most significant effect was obtained with sublingual administration of FPP^® close to the inoculation of melanoma. At the time of the sacrifice none of mice treated with FPP^® had metastases and the subcutaneous tumors were significantly smaller and amelanotic, compared to untreated mice. Moreover, the FPP^® anti-tumor effect was consistent with the decrease of total ROS levels and the increase in the blood levels of GSH and SOD-1. This study shows that a potent anti-oxidant treatment through FPP^® may contribute to both preventing and inhibiting tumors growth.

Discovering the Health Promoting Potential of Fermented Papaya Preparation—Its Future Perspectives for the Dietary Management of Oxidative Stress During Diabetes

The simplistic morphological characteristics of Carica papaya fruit or “pawpaw” should not be the cause for underestimating its potential as a nutraceutical. The market for papaya has been expanding at a staggering rate, partly due to its applicability as a biofortified product, but also due to its phytochemical properties and traditional health benefits. Papaya or formulations of fermented papaya promotion (FPP) display effective free radical scavenging abilities thought to be influenced by its phenolic, carotenoid, flavonoid, or amino acid profile. The antioxidant properties of FPP have been extensively reported in literature to potently target a broad spectrum of free radical-induced diseases ranging from neurological impairments, such as senile dementia, to systemic diseases, to its interference at the cellular level and the support of normal biological ageing processes. FPP has thus been extensively investigated for its ability to exert cellular protective effects and reduce oxidative stress via the mitigation of genetic damage, reduction of lipid peroxidation, and enzymatic inactivation in specific diseases. The focus of this review is to appraise the potential of oxidative stress reduction strategies of FPP and discuss its holistic approach in disease prevention and management, with a particular focus on diabetes and cancer. However, with the current lack of information surrounding its mechanism of action, this review wishes to set the stage and aspire researchers to more profoundly investigate molecular pathways related to how FPP can unequivocally contribute to wellness in an aging population.

Modulatory Effect of Fermented Papaya Extracts on Mammary Gland Hyperplasia Induced by Estrogen and Progestin in Female Rats

Fermented papaya extracts (FPEs) are obtained by fermentation of papaya by Aspergillus oryzae and yeasts. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of FPEs on mammary gland hyperplasia induced by estrogen and progestogen. Rats were randomly divided into 6 groups, including a control group, an FPE-alone group, a model group, and three FPE treatment groups (each receiving 30, 15, or 5 ml/kg FPEs). Severe mammary gland hyperplasia was induced upon estradiol benzoate and progestin administration. FPEs could improve the pathological features of the animal model and reduce estrogen levels in the serum. Analysis of oxidant indices revealed that FPEs could increase superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the mammary glands and serum of the animal models, and decrease the proportion of cells positive for the oxidative DNA damage marker 8-oxo-dG in the mammary glands. Additionally, estradiol benzoate and progestin altered the levels of serum biochemical compounds such as aspartate transaminase (AST), total bilirubin (TBIL), and alanine transaminase (ALT), as well as hepatic oxidant indices such as SOD, GSH-Px, MDA, and 8-oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG). These indices reverted to normal levels upon oral administration of a high dose of FPEs. Taken together, our results indicate that FPEs can protect the mammary glands and other visceral organs from oxidative damage.

Fermented papaya preparation modulates the progression of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea induced hepatocellular carcinoma in Balb/c mice

AIM AND MAIN METHOD

The medicinal properties of fermented papaya preparation (FPP) derived from Carica papaya fruit was investigated in order to determine its ability to modulate the progression of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea induced hepatocellular carcinoma in Balb/c mice.

KEY FINDINGS

As well as reducing the physical symptoms associated with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma, supplementation of Balb/c mice with 500mg FPP/kg BW for 92days normalized the blood cell count, led to an increased activity of several key antioxidant enzymes (SOD: +20%, CAT: +81%, GPx: +66.1%, GR: +54.4%; P<0.001 vs. MNU control), increased the ferrous reducing antioxidant potential (+36.7%, P<0.001 vs. MNU control) and reduced the extent of lipid peroxidation in the liver by 44.3% (P<0.001 vs. MNU control).

SIGNIFICANCE

Results demonstrated the ability of FPP to preserve the integrity of liver against oxidative damage and protect hepatocytes against irreversible DNA structural modifications induced by MNU, highlighting its potential role as an immune-defense modulator during hepatocarcinoma.

Effect of a quality-controlled fermented nutraceutical on skin aging markers: An antioxidant-control, double-blind study

The aim of the present study was to determine whether oral supplementation with a fermented papaya preparation (FPP-treated group) or an antioxidant cocktail (antioxidant-control group, composed of 10 mg trans-resveratrol, 60 µg selenium, 10 mg vitamin E and 50 mg vitamin C) was able to improve the skin antioxidant capacity and the expression of key skin genes, while promoting skin antiaging effects. The study enrolled 60 healthy non-smoker males and females aged 40-65 years, all of whom showed clinical signs of skin aging. The subjects were randomly divided into two matched groups, and were administered FPP or antioxidant treatment of a 4.5 g/day sachet sublingually twice a day for 90 days in a double-blind fashion. The parameters investigated were: Skin surface, brown spots, skin evenness, skin moisturization, elasticity (face), redox balance, nitric oxide (NO) concentration, and the expression levels of key genes (outer forearm sample). As compared with the baseline (day 0) and antioxidant-control values, FPP-treated subjects showed a significant improvement in skin evenness, moisturization and elasticity. The two treatments improved the MDA and SOD skin concentrations, but only the FPP-treated group showed a higher SOD level and a significant NO increase, along with significant upregulation of acquaporin-3 and downregulation of the potentially pro-aging/carcinogenetic cyclophilin-A and CD147 genes (P<0.05). Progerin was unaffected in both treatment groups. In conclusion, these findings suggest that orally-administered FPP showed a consistent biological and gene-regulatory improvement in the skin, as was also demonstrated in previous experimental and clinical trials testing other tissues, while common oral antioxidants had only a minor effect.

In vitro effects of fermented papaya (Carica papaya, L.) on platelets obtained from patients with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Oxidative stress is associated with insulin resistance pathogenesis, insulin secretion deficiency, and complication onset. Fermented papaya preparation (FPP), a dietary supplement obtained by fermentation of the papaya fruit, may be used as an antioxidant in the prevention of diabetic complications.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Platelets from 30 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM 2) and 15 healthy subjects were analyzed to evaluate the in vitro effects of FPP incubation. Na(+)/K(+)-adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity, membrane fluidity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and conjugated diene levels were determined. In vitro FPP incubation improved platelet function, by enhancing Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity and membrane fluidity, and ameliorated the antioxidant system functionality, through an increase in TAC and SOD activity and a parallel decrease in conjugated diene levels in patients with DM 2.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that the incubation with FPP may have a protective effect on platelets from patients with DM 2, by preventing the progression of oxidative damage associated with diabetes and its complications.

Cytological and biochemical studies during the progression of alloxan-induced diabetes and possible protection of an aqueous leaf extract of Costus afer

Some plants have proven efficacy in the management of diabetes mellitus, of which Costus afer is one. This study was designed to evaluate the cytological and biochemical properties, and comparative ameliorating effects, of an aqueous extract of Costus afer Ker Gawl. (Costaceae) leaf and glibenclamide (GBM), in liver, kidney, and pancreatic injury induced by alloxan. Thirty male albino rats were divided into six weight-matched groups. Group one served as the negative control (non-induced and non-treated, control), while groups 2-6 were alloxan-induced diabetic groups. Group 2 served as a positive control (induced and non-treated, IC), groups 3-5 were treated with different doses of the extract (375, 750, and 1,125 mg/kg body weight) and glibenclamide, respectively. Body weight, absolute and relative organ weights, food and fluid intake, levels of serum glucose and liver enzymes and kidney parameters were calculated and compared. Hepatocytes, renal tubules, and pancreatic cells of diabetic rats, in diabetic non-treated and treated rats were harvested and examined histopathologically. There was dose dependent amelioration on the injuries induced by alloxan on both hepatocytes, renal tubules, and pancreatic cells after treatment with Costus afer. The glucose level was reduced significantly in the Costus afer treated diabetic rats compared with the non-treated diabetic group. Costus afer leaves seem to be effective against diabetic cell injury induced in rat liver, kidney, and pancreas.

Diabetes as a risk factor to cancer: functional role of fermented papaya preparation as phytonutraceutical adjunct in the treatment of diabetes and cancer

Oncologists and diabetologists quote scientific data from epidemiological and in vitro studies to show that high levels of insulin and glucose, in combination with oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, can heighten the risk of developing cancer amongst patients with diabetes. Although the cancers that have been consistently associated with type 2 diabetes include pancreatic, colorectal, breast and liver cancer, the preponderance of the disease risk factors such as obesity, inflammation, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinaemia (as a result of insulin resistance and oxidative β-cell damage) and the indirect influence of anti-diabetic medications are increasingly being defined. Fermented papaya preparation (FPP) has defined antioxidant and immune-modulating potentials. The ability of FPP influence signaling cascades associated with cell growth and survival presents a rational for chemopreventive adjunct that can be used in combination with traditional redox based therapies that target oxidative stress in the cancer micro environment. It is further suggested that the demonstrated efficacy FPP to control blood glucose, excessive inflammation and modulate free radical-induced oxidative damage which are triggers of liver, bladder, breast and prostate cancers in type 2 diabetics, may favorably mitigate the side effects of ensuing diabetes and cancer therapy. What remains paramount is early cancer detection and early determination of propensity risks for diabetes. The education of patients, proper dietary management and compliance with therapeutic regime directed at cancer and diabetes encapsulate challenges of global magnitude.

Flavonoid from Carica papaya inhibits NS2B-NS3 protease and prevents Dengue 2 viral assembly

Dengue virus belongs to the virus family Flaviviridae. Dengue hemorrhagic disease caused by dengue virus is a public health problem worldwide. The viral non structural 2B and 3 (NS2B-NS3) protease complex is crucial for virus replication and hence, it is considered to be a good anti-viral target. Leaf extracts from Carica papaya is generally prescribed for patients with dengue fever, but there are no scientific evidences for its anti-dengue activity; hence we intended to investigate the anti-viral activity of compounds present in the leaves of Carica papaya against dengue 2 virus (DENV-2). We analysed the anti-dengue activities of the extracts from Carica papaya by using bioinformatics tools. Interestingly, we find the flavonoid quercetin with highest binding energy against NS2B-NS3 protease which is evident by the formation of six hydrogen bonds with the amino acid residues at the binding site of the receptor. Our results suggest that the flavonoids from Carica papaya have significant anti-dengue activities.

The inhibitory effect of a fermented papaya preparation on growth, hydrophobicity, and acid production of Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus mitis, and Lactobacillus acidophilus: its implications in oral health improvement of diabetics

Fermented papaya preparation (FPP) is a "natural health product." The high incidence of dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, and oral microbial infection cases among patients with diabetes mellitus continues to prevail. The potential role of FPP against common oral microbiota (Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus mitis, and Lactobacillus acidophilus) isolated from the human oral cavity was investigated using in vitro simulation models of dental plaque and caries. FPP showed an inhibitory effect against the growth (at 0.05 mg/mL: S. mutans: -6.9%; S. mitis: -4.47%, P < 0.05), acid production (at 0.05 mg/mL: S. mutans: +6.38%; L. acidophilus: +2.25%), and hydrophobicity (at 50 mg/mL: S. mutans: 1.01%, P < 0.01; S. mitis: 7.66%, P < 0.05) of tested microbiota. The results of this study suggest that low doses of FPP may be a suitable complement to good oral hygiene practice for the effective prevention of dental caries, plaque, and gingivitis. The functional application of FPP as a constituent of a balanced diet and active lifestyle can make a positive contribution to the oral health status and well-being of patients with diabetes.

Herbal medicines used by Bapedi traditional healers to treat reproductive ailments in the Limpopo Province, South Africa

The current study focussed on documenting the ethnobotanical knowledge of herbal medicines used by the Bapedi traditional healers to treat reproductive ailments in the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Fifty one healers from 17 municipalities covering Capricorn, Sekhukhune and Waterberg districts of the Limpopo Province were interviewed between January and July 2011. Semi-structured interviews, observations and guided field surveys with the healers were employed. Thirty-six medicinal plant species belonging to 35 genera and 20 families were documented. The most used species were Zanthoxylum humile (25.5%), Catha edulis (21.6%), Ozoroa sphaerocarpa (15.7%), Hypoxis hemerocallidea (13.7%), Hypoxis obtusa (11.7%), Gomphocarpus fruticosus subsp. fruticosus and Gymnosporia senegalensis (9.8% each). The dominant growth forms among the reported medicinal plants were herbs (39%), followed by shrubs and trees with 33% and 28%, respectively. The preferred plant parts were roots (63.9%), followed by bark (13.9%), whole plant (11.1%), tubers (8.3%), bulbs (5.6%), fruits, leaves, stems and twigs (2.8% each). The majority of the species were used to treat gender specific reproductive ailments; while a minority were used for treating reproductive ailments of both genders. Twenty-two species (61.1%) are supported by reports of similar uses in other countries or have proven biological activity. This study illustrates that Bapedi traditional healers possess remarkable knowledge on medicinal plants used for treating and managing reproductive ailments.

Hypoglycemic effect of Carica papaya leaves in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Background

Traditional plant treatment for diabetes has shown a surging interest in the last few decades. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the hypoglycemic effect of the aqueous extract of C. papaya leaves in diabetic rats. Several studies have reported that some parts of the C. papaya plant exert hypoglycemic effects in both animals and humans.

Methods

Diabetes was induced in rats by intraperitoneal administration of 60 mg/kg of streptozotocin (STZ). The aqueous extract of C. papaya was administered in three different doses (0.75, 1.5 and 3 g/100 mL) as drinking water to both diabetic and non-diabetic animals during 4 weeks.

Results

The aqueous extract of Carica papaya (0.75 g and 1.5 g/100 mL) significantly decreased blood glucose levels (p<0.05) in diabetic rats. It also decreased cholesterol, triacylglycerol and amino-transferases blood levels. Low plasma insulin levels did not change after treatment in diabetic rats, but they significantly increased in non-diabetic animals. Pancreatic islet cells were normal in non-diabetic treated animals, whereas in diabetic treated rats, C. papaya could help islet regeneration manifested as preservation of cell size. In the liver of diabetic treated rats, C. papaya prevented hepatocyte disruption, as well as accumulation of glycogen and lipids. Finally, an antioxidant effect of C. papaya extract was also detected in diabetic rats.

Conclusions

This study showed that the aqueous extract of C. papaya exerted a hypoglycemic and antioxidant effect; it also improved the lipid profile in diabetic rats. In addition, the leaf extract positively affected integrity and function of both liver and pancreas.

Antioxidant and immunostimulant effect of carica papaya linn. Aqueous extract in acrylamide intoxicated rats

INTRODUCTION

The present study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant and immunostimulant effects of The Carica papaya fruit aqueous extract (CPF, Caricaceae) against acrylamide induced oxidative stress and improvement of Immune functions which affected by free radicals liberating acrylamide in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sixty male wistar albino rats (195-230g) were assigned to four groups, (fifteen/group). The first group used as control group and received normal physiological saline orally daily. The second group was supplemented with acrylamide 0.05% in drinking water. The third group was gastro-gavaged with 250 mg/kg of papaya fruit extract orally on daily basis. The fourth group was supplemented with acrylamide 0.05% in drinking water and gastro-gavaged with 250 mg/kg of papaya fruit extract orally on daily basis. The chosen dose of papaya fruit extract was based on the active pharmacological dose range obtained from the orientation study earlier conducted. The experimental period was extended to forty day. At the expiration of the experimental period and night fasting, blood samples were collected from the orbital venous sinus. The sera were separated and used for determining of IgG and IgM and the stomach, liver and kidney homogenates for estimation of MDA, GSH level, SOD and CAT activity as a biomarker of lipid peroxidation and antioxidative stress.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The obtained results revealed that, acrylamide caused significant increases in MDA and decrease of GSH level, SOD and CAT activity due to the oxidative stress induced by acrylamide on membrane polyunsaturated fatty acids in rat's stomach, liver and kidney while administration of CPF aqueous extract, was significantly ameliorated the increased levels of MDA and decline of GSH, SOD and CAT activity in the stomach, liver and kidney tissues caused by acrylamide toxicity. Meanwhile, CPF aqueous extract significantly increased immune functions (IgG and IgM) while acrylamide significantly decrease it specially IgG. Thus, this study suggests that acrylamide-induced oxidative stress in rats can be ameliorated by administration of CPF aqueous extract.

Correction of aberrant NADPH oxidase activity in blood-derived mononuclear cells from type II diabetes mellitus patients by a naturally fermented papaya preparation

Supplementation of standardized fermented papaya preparation (FPP) to adult diabetic mice improves dermal wound healing outcomes. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients elicit a compromised respiratory burst activity resulting in increased risk of infections for the diabetic patients.

AIMS

The objectives of the current study were to determine the effect of FPP supplementation on human diabetic PBMC respiratory burst activity and to understand underlying mechanisms of such action of FPP.

RESULTS

When stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, the production of reactive oxygen species by T2DM PBMC was markedly compromised compared to that of the PBMC from non-DM donors. FPP treated ex vivo improved respiratory burst outcomes in T2DM PBMC. FPP treatment significantly increased phosphorylation of the p47phox subunit of NADPH oxidase. In addition, the protein and mRNA expression of Rac2 was potently upregulated after FPP supplemention. The proximal human Rac2 gene promoter is G-C rich and contains consensus binding sites for Sp1 and AP-1. While FPP had no significant effect on the AP-1 DNA binding activity, the Sp1 DNA binding activity was significantly upregulated in PBMC after treatment of the cells with FPP.

INNOVATION

This work provided first evidence that compromised respiratory burst performance of T2DM PBMC may be corrected by a nutritional supplement.

CONCLUSION

FPP can correct respiratory burst performance of T2DM PBMC via an Sp-1-dependant pathway. Studies testing the outcome of FPP supplementation in diabetic patients are warranted.

Papaya epicarp extract protects against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in human SH-SY5Y neuronal cells

Recent studies indicated that regular consumption of antioxidant-rich foods reduces cellular oxidative stress and protects against health-related problems. This study aimed to assess the in vitro antioxidant properties of the papaya epicarp extract against hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2))-induced oxidative stress in human SH-SY5Y neuronal cells. Our study revealed that papaya epicarp extract acted as a potent free radical scavenger and provided neuroprotection against H(2)O(2)-induced oxidative stress. Papaya epicarp extract ameliorated glutathione depletion, restored total antioxidant capacity and augmented the inhibition of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidases and superoxide dismutase). In conclusion, papaya epicarp extract can be used as a functional dietary ingredient that might help in reducing the neurological health problems associated with various oxidative stress insults.

Applications and bioefficacy of the functional food supplement fermented papaya preparation

Fermented papaya preparation (FPP) (a product of yeast fermentation of Carica papaya Linn) is a food supplement. Studies in chronic and degenerative disease conditions (such as thalassemia, cirrhosis, diabetes and aging) and performance sports show that FPP favorably modulates immunological, hematological, inflammatory, vascular and oxidative stress damage parameters. Neuroprotective potential evaluated in an Alzheimer's disease cell model showed that the toxicity of the β-amyloid can be significantly modulated by FPP. Oxidative stress trigger apoptotic pathways such as the c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38-mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) are preferentially activated by pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress resulting in cell differentiation and apoptosis. FPP modulated the H₂O₂-induced ERK, Akt and p38 activation with the reduction of p38 phosphorylation induced by H₂O₂. FPP reduces the extent of the H₂O₂-induced DNA damage, an outcome corroborated by similar effects obtained in the benzo[a]pyrene treated cells. No genotoxic effect was observed in experiments with FPP exposed to HepG2 cells nor was FPP toxic to the PC12 cells. Oxidative stress-induced cell damage and inflammation are implicated in a variety of cancers, diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular dysfunctions, neurodegenerative disorders (such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease), exercise physiology (including performance sports) and aging. These conditions could potentially benefit from functional nutraceutical/food supplements (as illustrated here with fermented papaya preparation) exhibiting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunostimulatory (at the level of the mucus membrane) and induction of antioxidant enzymes.

Fermented papaya preparation for β-thalassemia?

This article comments on the results obtained by Fibach et al., which showed reduction of oxidative status in red blood cells of patients with β- and E-β-thalassemia (β-thal) treated with fermented papaya preparation. The study was a three-center, prospective study, including eight patients with β-thal intermedia, four β-thal major and seven E-β-thal patients. The patients received 3 g of fermented papaya preparation (FPP) two- to three-times a day after meals, respectively, for 3 months. A marked decrease in reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation and phosphatidylserine externalization and an increase in GSH were detected in both groups of patients, indicating that FPP is efficient in reducing the oxidative stress of these red blood cells. The results are very encouraging as all parameters analyzed indicated the reduction of red blood cells oxidative stress by the action of a natural and inexpensive product.

Improved function of diabetic wound-site macrophages and accelerated wound closure in response to oral supplementation of a fermented papaya preparation

Carica papaya Linn is widely known as a medicinal fruit. We sought to study a standardized fermented papaya preparation (FPP) for its effects on wound healing in adult obese diabetic (db/db) mice. FPP blunted the gain in blood glucose and improved the lipid profile after 8 weeks of oral supplementation. However, FPP did not influence weight gain during the supplementation period. FPP (0.2 g/kg body weight) supplementation for 8 weeks before wounding was effective in correcting wound closure. Studies on viable macrophages isolated from the wound site demonstrated that FPP supplementation improved respiratory-burst function as well as inducible NO production. Reactive oxygen species support numerous aspects of wound healing; NO availability in diabetic wounds is known to be compromised. Diabetic mice supplemented with FPP showed a higher abundance of CD68 as well as CD31 at the wound site, suggesting effective recruitment of monocytes and an improved proangiogenic response. This work provides the first evidence that diabetic-wound outcomes may benefit from FPP supplementation by specifically influencing the response of wound-site macrophages and the subsequent angiogenic response. Given that FPP has a long track record of safe human consumption, testing of the beneficial effects of FPP on diabetic wound-related outcomes in a clinical setting is warranted.

Inhibitory properties of selected South African medicinal plants against Mycobacterium tuberculosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is the most commonly notified disease and the fifth largest cause of mortality. One in 10 cases is resistant to treatment in some areas. Several plants are used locally to treat TB-related disease.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

The aim was to screen selected South African medicinal plants used to treat TB and related symptoms by traditional healers for antimycobacterial activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethnobotanical information on these plants was obtained. Crude acetone, methanol, hexane and ethanol extracts of 21 selected medicinal plants obtained in Venda, South Africa were screened for their ability to inhibit MTB H(37)Ra and a clinical strain resistant to first-line drugs and one second-line drug using tetrazolium microplate assay to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Results were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2007 and One way ANOVA; p<0.05 was considered for statistical significance.

RESULTS

Few acetone extracts were active against MTB with MIC under 100 microg/mL. Four plants showed lower MIC values; Berchemia discolor Klotzsch Hemsl 12, 5 microg/mL on H(37)Ra and 10.5 microg/mL on the clinical isolate, Bridelia micrantha Hochst. Baill (25 microg/mL), Warbugia salutaris Bertol. F Chiov (25 microg/mL), and Terminalia sericea Burch ex D. F (25 microg/mL) on both H(37)Ra and clinical isolate. However, the roots of Ximenia caffra Sond. Var. caffra, barks of Sclerocarya birrea (A Rich) Hochst, Asclepias fruticosa L, tubers of Allium sativum L, leaves of Carica papaya L, Solanum panduriforme E. Mey C, and roots of Securidaca longepedunculata Fresen gave MIC greater than 100 microg/mL.

CONCLUSION

The acetone extracts of Berchemiadiscolor, Bridelia micrantha, Terminalia sericea and Warbugia salutaris could be important sources of mycobactericidal compounds against multidrug-resistant MTB.

The Clinical Effects of Fermented Papaya Preparation® (FPP®) on Oxidative Stress in Patients with HbE/ β -Thalassaemia

Background:

Red blood cells (RBC) of patients with thalassaemia are under continuous oxidative stress. Fermented papaya preparation® (FPP®) has been shown to have an antioxidative effect and is postulated to reduce the oxidative stress on RBC.

Objective:

To study the clinical effects of FPP® treatment in patients with HbE/β-thalassaemia on RBC indices, oxidative stress and quality of life scores.

Method:

Patients with HbE/β-thalassaemia who do not receive regular blood transfusion were included in the study and were given FPP® daily (3gm 2 times a day) for 12 weeks. Peripheral blood samples were obtained at the initiation of the study and at 4-weekly intervals thereafter for a period of 12 weeks. The following parameters were measured: Haemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), reticulocyte count; Oxidation studies: production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and intracellular glutathione content (GSH), spontaneously and in response to oxidative stress; Quality of life (QoL) at the start and at the end of 12 weeks using health survey questionnaires.

Results:

Seven patients (5 females and 2 males) were recruited to the study from January 2006 to April 2006. Median age of the study population was 19 years (range 4 to 27yrs). In vitro analyses showed production of significantly less ROS and more GSH following treatment. There was no significant difference in the Hb, MCV, reticulocyte count, clinical parameters or QoL scores. FPP® was well tolerated by all the patients.

Conclusion:

Although oxidative stress parameters were decreased, FPP® did not have any significant effect on the Hb levels or QoL. Longer studies on larger sample size are required to study the long-term clinical effect of FPP® on clinical parameters in patients with Hb E/β-thalassaemia.

Regulating redox balance gene expression in healthy individuals by nutraceuticals: a pilot study

We tested the effect of a fermented papaya preparation (FPP; ORI, Gifu, Japan) on redox balance gene expression in 11 healthy nonsmoker, teetotaller individuals subjected to a detailed dietary and lifestyle questionnaire who refrained from any multivitamin supplement or fortified food. Redox status was assessed by erythrocyte and plasma parameters together with related leukocyte mRNA (glutathione peroxidase [GPx], superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase, 8-oxoguanine glycosylase [hOGG1]) before/after 6 grams of FPP supplementation. At 2 and 4 weeks after FPP administration, plasma parameters remained unchanged, whereas FPP significantly upregulated all tested gene expression (p < 0.05). Although posttranscriptional/translation protein modifications do occur and larger and longer studies are awaited, these preliminary data suggest that a transcriptomic modification of key redox and DNA repair genes may offer further insights when attempting to interrelate "nutragenomics" to clinical phenomena.

Fermented papaya preparation as redox regulator in blood cells of beta-thalassemic mice and patients

Many aspects of the pathology in beta-hemoglobinopathies (beta-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia) are mediated by oxidative stress. Fermented papaya preparation (FPP) was tested for its antioxidant effects: the scavenging effect was determined spectrofluorometrically in a cell-free system using 2'-7'-dichlorofluorescin-diacetate (DCF). Both spontaneous and H(2)O(2)-induced DCF oxidations were decreased by FPP in a dose-dependent fashion. Using flow cytometry, it was shown that in vitro treatment of blood cells from beta-thalassemic patients with FPP increased the glutathione content of red blood cells (RBC), platelets and polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes, and reduced their reactive oxygen species, membrane lipid peroxidation and externalization of phosphatidylserine. These effects result in (a) reduced thalassemic RBC sensitivity to hemolysis and phagocytosis by macrophages; (b) improved PMN ability to generate oxidative burst - an intracellular mechanism of bacteriolysis, and (c) reduced platelet tendency to undergo activation, as reflected by fewer platelets carrying external phosphatidylserine. Oral administration of FPP to beta-thalassemic mice (50 mg/mouse/day for 3 months) and to patients (3 g x 3 times/day for 3 months), reduced all the above mentioned parameters of oxidative stress (p < 0.001 in mice and p < 0.005 in patients). These results suggest that FPP, as a potent antioxidant, might alleviate symptoms associated with oxidative stress in severe forms of thalassemia.

Synergistic anti-Parkinsonism activity of high doses of B vitamins in a chronic cellular model

We propose that elevation of mitochondrial enzyme cofactors may prevent or ameliorate neurodegenerative diseases by improving mitochondrial function. In the present study, we investigated the effects of high doses of B vitamins, the precursors of mitochondrial enzyme cofactors, on mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and Parkinsonism in a 4-week long rotenone treatment-induced cellular model of Parkinson's disease (PD). Pretreatment with B vitamins (also 4 weeks) prevented rotenone-induced: (1) mitochondrial dysfunction, including reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and activities of complex I; (2) oxidative stress, including increase in reactive oxygen species, oxidative DNA damage and protein oxidation, and (3) Parkinsonism parameters, including accumulation of alpha-synuclein and poly-ubiquitin. The optimum doses were found around 2.5- and 5-fold of that in normal MEM medium. The 4-week pretreatment was chosen based on time-dependent experiments that pretreatments longer than 2 weeks resulted in a decrease in oxidants, an increase in oxygen consumption, and up-regulation of complex I activity and PGC-1alpha expression. Individual B vitamins at the same doses did not show a similar effect suggesting that these B vitamins work synergistically. These results suggest that administration of high doses of B vitamins sufficient to elevate mitochondrial enzyme cofactors may be effective in preventing PD by reducing oxidative stress and improving mitochondrial function.

Sperm quality improvement after natural anti-oxidant treatment of asthenoteratospermic men with leukocytospermia

AIM

To study the immune-modulating and anti-oxidant effects of beta-glucan, papaya, lactoferrin, and vitamins C and E on sperm characteristics of patients with asthenoteratozoospermia associated with leucocytosis.

METHODS

Fifty-one patients referred to our Sterility Center for semen analysis were selected. Sperm parameters were assessed before and after patient's treatment with beta-glucan, lactoferrin, papaya, and vitamins C and E. DNA damage was assessed by the acridine orange test and sperm structural characteristics were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy.

RESULTS

After 90 days of treatment, an increase in the percentage of morphologically normal sperm (17.0 +/- 5.2 vs. 29.8 +/- 6.5) and total progressive motility (19.0 +/- 7.8 vs. 34.8 +/- 6.8) were detected. Structural sperm characteristics as well as chromatin integrity were also improved after treatment. In terms of leukocyte concentration in seminal fluid, a significant reduction was recorded (2.2 +/- 0.9 vs. 0.9 +/- 0.2).

CONCLUSION

The treatment of an inflammatory process by the synergic action of immune modulators and anti-oxidants could protect sperm during maturation and migration, leading to improved sperm function.

Oxyl radicals, redox-sensitive signalling cascades and antioxidants

Oxidative stress is an increase in the reduction potential or a large decrease in the reducing capacity of the cellular redox couples. A particularly destructive aspect of oxidative stress is the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which include free radicals and peroxides. Some of the less reactive of these species can be converted by oxidoreduction reactions with transition metals into more aggressive radical species that can cause extensive cellular damage. In animals, ROS may influence cell proliferation, cell death (either apoptosis or necrosis) and the expression of genes, and may be involved in the activation of several signalling pathways, activating cell signalling cascades, such as those involving mitogen-activated protein kinases. Most of these oxygen-derived species are produced at a low level by normal aerobic metabolism and the damage they cause to cells is constantly repaired. The cellular redox environment is preserved by enzymes and antioxidants that maintain the reduced state through a constant input of metabolic energy. This review summarizes current studies that have been regarding the production of ROS and the general redox-sensitive targets of cell signalling cascades.

Oxidative-inflammatory damage in cirrhosis: effect of vitamin E and a fermented papaya preparation

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Oxidative DNA damage occurs as an early event in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and is an indication of the potential for carcinogenesis. The aim of this study was to test a novel antioxidant/immunomodulator in patients with HCV-related cirrhosis.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 50 patients with HCV-related cirrhosis with transaminase values less than twofold increased (alanine aminotransferase [ALT] < 80 IU/L). Patients underwent a standardized food-vitamin composition assessment and were assessed for dietary intake, nutritional status and iron level. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups and then given either alpha-tocopherol 900 IU/day or 9 g/day of a fermented papaya preparation (FPP, Immun-Age, Osato Research Institute, Gifu, Japan) at bedtime for 6 months. Ten healthy subjects served as controls. Patients were checked monthly for: routine tests, redox status (reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, oxidized glutathione, malondialdehyde), plasma alpha-tocopherol, 8-hydroxy-deoxy-guanidine (8-OHdG) level in circulating leukocyte DNA and serum levels of cytokines.

RESULTS

Patients with cirrhosis showed a significant imbalance of redox status (low antioxidants/high oxidative stress markers) (P < 0.005 vs controls). Neither treatment regimen affected transaminases as a whole. However, vitamin E supplementation almost normalized ALT only in the limited vitamin-E-deficient subgroup. A significant improvement of redox status was obtained by both regimens. However, only FPP significantly decreased 8-OHdG and the improvement of cytokine balance with FPP was significantly better than with vitamin E treatment (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the present data seem to suggest a potential supportive role of antioxidants/immunomodulators as FPP in HCV patients, more studies are needed to substantiate their effect on the natural history of the disease.

Application of human hepatoma cell line HepG2 and its progress in the detection of genotoxicants

Genotoxicity test is widely used in the detection of various carcinogens and mutagens. HepG2 is derived from human hepatoblastoma, and it retains the activities of drug-metabolizing enzymes. It has been demonstrated that various carcinogens can be detected in genotoxicity test with HepG2 cells at several endpoints, whereas negative results have been obtained with non-carcinogens.