Carotenoids and Their Health Benefits as Derived via Their Interactions with Gut Microbiota

Dietary phytochemicals alleviate the premature skin aging: A comprehensive review

Skin aging, often called as premature skin aging, is the hastened deterioration of the skin resulting from multiple factors, including UV radiation, environmental contaminants, inadequate nutrition, stress, etc. Dietary phytochemicals, present in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-derived meals, have gained interest due to their efficiency to eradicate free radicals and lowering the release of inflammatory mediators which accounts for premature skin aging. Several dietary phytochemicals, i.e., carotenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenes, alkaloids, phytosterols, etc., exhibited potential anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, suppression of UV damage, and promote collagen synthesis. In addition, dietary phytochemicals include sulfur, present in various foods safeguard the skin against oxidative stress and inflammation. Thus, this article delves into the comprehension of various dietary phytochemicals investigated to alleviate the premature skin aging. The article further highlights specific phytochemicals and their sources, bioavailability, mechanisms, etc., in the context of safeguarding the skin against oxidative stress and inflammation. The present manuscript is a systematic comprehension of the available literature on dietary phytochemicals and skin aging in various database, i.e., PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar using the keywords, i.e., "dietary phytochemicals", "nutraceuticals", "skin aging" etc., via Boolean operator, i.e., "AND". The dietary guidelines presented in the manuscript is a unique summarization for a broad reader to understand the inclusion of various functional foods, nutrients, supplements, etc., to prevent premature skin aging. Thus, the utilization of dietary phytochemicals has shown a promising avenue in preventing skin aging, however, the future perspectives and challenges of such phytochemicals should be comprehended via clinical investigations.

Integrated Microbiome and Metabolomic to Explore the Mechanism of Coptisine in Alleviating Ulcerative Colitis

Coptisine (COP), a naturally occurring alkaloid, is known for its diverse pharmacological effects and its supportive role in intestinal health. Despite this, the detailed mechanisms behind its therapeutic benefits are not yet fully understood. The objective of this study is to investigate the therapeutic potential of COP for the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and to delineate the critical pathways by which it exerts its therapeutic effects. To assess COP's therapeutic effectiveness, mice were administered COP and monitored for clinical symptoms, activity, and disease activity index (DAI) changes. Intestinal histopathology, mucosal barrier function, and gut microbiota structure were evaluated, along with metabolic profiling, focusing on Prenol lipids in the colon to identify COP-induced metabolic shifts. Mice treated with COP exhibited significant relief from diarrhea and bleeding, along with increased activity and a marked reduction in DAI scores. Histopathological evaluation revealed a reduction in intestinal inflammation, and the intestinal mucosal barrier function was notably enhanced. The gut microbiota composition in COP-treated mice showed improvements. Additionally, the levels of Prenol lipids in the colon were elevated by COP treatment, which is crucial for the recovery of intestinal function. Our study demonstrates that COP effectively ameliorates colitis symptoms by modulating colon Prenol lipids metabolism, particularly under the influence of key bacterial species. The findings of this study provide novel insights into the therapeutic mechanisms of COP in the treatment of UC.

Natural pigments in the food industry: Enhancing stability, nutritional benefits, and gut microbiome health

Natural pigments are increasingly favored in the food industry for their vibrant colors, fewer side effects and potential health benefits compared to synthetic pigments. However, their application in food industry is hindered by their instability under harsh environmental conditions. This review evaluates current strategies aimed at enhancing the stability and bioactivity of natural pigments. Advanced physicochemical methods have shown promise in enhancing the stability of natural pigments, enabling their incorporation into food products to enhance sensory attributes, texture, and bioactive properties. Moreover, recent studies demonstrated that most natural pigments offer health benefits. Importantly, they have been found to positively influence gut microbiota, in particular their regulation of the beneficial and harmful flora of the gut microbiome, the reduction of ecological dysbiosis through changes in the composition of the gut microbiome, and the alleviation of systemic inflammation caused by a high-fat diet in mice, suggesting a beneficial role in dietary interventions.

Screening the carotenoid in vitro bioaccessibility of purple corn breakfast cereal consumed with milk and plant-based milk

Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCD), such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer, dominate global mortality, besides compromising the quality of life. Unhealthy habits like sedentary lifestyles and poor diets escalate NCD risks. Conversely, the consumption of phenolic compounds and carotenoids has shown promise in reducing NCD risks. The food industry responds by adapting products to meet demands for healthier options rich in bioactive compounds. For instance, breakfast cereals made from purple and yellow corn offer carotenoids and anthocyanins and form a nutrient-balanced meal when consumed with milk or alternatives. However, bioactive compounds in food do not guarantee absorption, necessitating bioaccessibility studies. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the bioaccessibility of the major carotenoids in two breakfast cereals, one made with 100% yellow corn and the other with 50% purple corn, co-digested with whole milk, semi-skimmed milk, skimmed milk, and almond "milk". The bioaccessibility of lutein in the breakfast cereals was evaluated using the INFOGEST 2.0 in vitro digestion method. Results showed that lutein bioaccessibility ranged from 9% to 29%. The bioaccessibility was lower than that observed in other food matrices, such as spinach and maize products. High fiber, low carotenoid contents, and anthocyanin presence negatively influenced the carotenoid bioaccessibility. Interestingly, the varying lipid content of milk showed no impact on lutein bioaccessibility under the examined conditions. In conclusion, the effects of lipids in a low range (0-7%) are not significant (p > 0.05) compared to other matrix components. When developing new products with health and nutritional benefits, it is important to consider that while fiber can reduce the bioaccessibility of carotenoids, it remains crucial for gut health.

Association between dietary carotenoids intake and fecal incontinence in American adults: evidence from NAHNES 2005-2010

Object

Carotenoids represent a class of bioactive compounds with potential implications for gut health. However, the relationship between dietary carotenoid intake (DCI) and fecal incontinence (FI) remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate the association between DCI and the risk of FI.

Methods

Participants aged 20 and above from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2005-2010) were included in the study. Data on FI were derived from the bowel health questionnaire, while DCI information was obtained from dietary interviews. Survey-weighted logistic regression analysis and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were employed to evaluate the relationship between DCI, its subtypes, and FI. Weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression was utilized to assess the overall effect of DCI and its predominant subtypes. Finally, subgroup analyses were conducted.

Result

The study included a total of 11,915 participants, of whom 1,023 (7.0%) experienced FI. Logistic regression analysis revealed that, after adjusting for all covariates, there was a significant inverse association between DCI and the risk of FI (Model 2: Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.52-0.86, p = 0.003). However, among the DCI subtypes, only β-carotene was found to have a significant inverse relationship with FI (Model 2: Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.52-0.88, p = 0.005). The RCS curves indicated no non-linear relationship between DCI, its subtypes, and FI (all p-non-linear >0.05). WQS analysis identified β-carotene (weight 38.2%) and lutein/zeaxanthin (weight 27.8%) as the primary contributors.

Conclusion

High levels of carotenoid intake, particularly β-carotene and lutein/zeaxanthin, are associated with a reduced risk of fecal incontinence. This discovery provides dietary recommendations for patients suffering from FI.

The biochemical effects of carotenoids in orange carrots on the colonic proteome in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity

Introduction

Carotenoids are naturally occurring pigments in plants and are responsible for the orange, yellow, and red color of fruits and vegetables. Carrots are one of the primary dietary sources of carotenoids. The biological activities of carotenoids in higher organisms, including their immunomodulatory activities, are well documented in most tissues but not the large intestine. The gastrointestinal barrier acts as a line of defense against the systemic invasion of pathogenic bacteria, especially at the colonic level.

Methods

To test whether carotenoids in orange carrots can alleviate obesity-associated gut inflammation and strengthen the intestinal barrier function, male C57BL/6J mice were randomized to one of four experimental diets for 20 weeks (n = 20 animals/group): Low-fat diet (LFD, 10% calories from fat), high-fat diet (HFD, 45% calories from fat), HFD with white carrot powder (HFD+WC), or HFD with orange carrot powder (HFD + OC). Colon tissues were harvested to analyze the biochemical effects of carotenoids in carrots. The distal sections were subjected to isobaric labeling-based quantitative proteomics in which tryptic peptides were labeled with tandem mass tags, followed by fractionation and LC-MS/MS analysis in an Orbitrap Eclipse Tribrid instrument.

Results

High-performance liquid chromatography results revealed that the HFD+WC pellets were carotenoid-deficient, and the HFD+OC pellets contained high concentrations of provitamin A carotenoids, specifically α-carotene and β-carotene. As a result of the quantitative proteomics, a total of 4410 differentially expressed proteins were identified. Intestinal barrier-associated proteins were highly upregulated in the HFD+OC group, particularly mucin-2 (MUC-2). Upon closer investigation into mucosal activity, other proteins related to MUC-2 functionality and tight junction management were upregulated by the HFD+OC dietary intervention.

Discussion

Collectively, our findings suggest that carotenoid-rich foods can prevent high-fat diet-induced intestinal barrier disruption by promoting colonic mucus synthesis and secretion in mammalian organisms. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD054150.

Association between serum carotenoids and hyperuricemia: a cross-sectional study based on NHANES 2001-2006

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the association between serum carotenoids and hyperuricemia.

Methods

Data were sourced from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2001 and 2006. Hyperuricemia was defined as serum uric acid (UA) levels of ≥7 mg/dL for males and ≥ 6 mg/dL for females. Serum carotenoid levels were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Multivariate linear regression was used to analyze the correlation between serum carotenoids and UA levels. Multivariate logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analyses were performed to explore the potential association between serum carotenoids and hyperuricemia. Additionally, subgroup and interaction analyses were conducted to determine variations across different population groups.

Result

This cross-sectional study included 13,561 participants. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that higher levels of serum carotenoids were correlated with lower UA levels. Specifically, the beta coefficients (β) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were as follows: α-carotene (-0.23 [-0.31, -0.15]), β-carotene (-0.30 [-0.38, -0.21]), β-cryptoxanthin (-0.17 [-0.25, -0.09]), lutein/zeaxanthin (-0.12 [-0.20, -0.04]), and total serum carotenoids (-0.25 [-0.33,-0.16]). However, lycopene showed no significant correlation with UA (-0.01 [-0.09, 0.08]). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicates a significant inverse association between serum carotenoids and the risk of hyperuricemia. The odds ratios (ORs) and 95%CIs were as follows: α-carotene (0.61 [0.49, 0.77]), β-carotene (0.67 [0.51, 0.86]), β-cryptoxanthin (0.69 [0.51, 0.88]), lutein/zeaxanthin (0.72 [0.56, 0.97]), lycopene (0.82 [0.67, 1.00]) and total serum carotenoids (0.73 [0.57, 0.92]). RCS analysis indicated a potential nonlinear relationship between lycopene and hyperuricemia, with an inflection point at 33.45 μg/dL. Subgroup and interaction analyses demonstrated that the inverse association remained consistent across various demographic groups.

Conclusion

This study found that higher serum carotenoid levels are associated with lower UA levels and reduced risk of hyperuricemia. Notably, while lycopene was associated with reduced hyperuricemia risk, its effect showed some heterogeneity.

Spinning gold: Unraveling the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of Pitanga's carotenoid microfibers

The design and development of nanoparticle- and microparticle-based delivery systems incorporating carotenoids into carrier materials offers multiple advantages, including enhancing the bio-efficacy of these compounds due to improving their bioaccessibility and bioavailability. This study introduced pitanga saponified carotenoid extract (PSCE) and pitanga non-saponified carotenoid extract (PSCE) in a 12 % zein/1 %PEO solution and electrospun for fiber production. Then, the fibers were characterized, and their bioaccessibility and bioavailability were also evaluated. The average mean diameter of carotenoid non-saponified microfiber (CNSM) and saponified (CSM) was 5.76 ± 1.7 μm and 4.92 ± 1.4 μm, respectively, indicating that the saponification process reduces the viscosity of the solution resulting in the development of finer microfibers. Carotenoid encapsulation efficiency ranged between 10.3 % and 8.43 % for saponified and non-saponified extracts, respectively. Surprisingly, no carotenoid release was detected from both microfibers after 72 h. Carotenoid bioaccessibility was higher in pitanga pulp compared to both microfibers. The xanthophylls showed higher bioavailability in pitanga pulp. The study's results suggest that the microfibers' structure significantly influenced carotenoid release and cellular absorption more than the chemical structure of carotenoids themselves.

Protective Effects of Carotenoid-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Against Ochratoxin-A-Induced Cytotoxicity

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus ochraceous and various Penicillium species, which are known for contaminating agricultural products and posing significant health risks, which include immunotoxicity. This study aims to evaluate the potential of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) loaded with a carotenoid-enriched extract from pumpkin peel (Cucurbita maxima L.) in mitigating the toxic effects of OTA. To address the poor bioavailability and instability of carotenoids, nanoencapsulation techniques were employed to enhance their delivery and efficacy. NLCs were formulated using hydrogenated sunflower oil, pumpkin oil, and soy lecithin using hot high-pressure homogenization. The in vitro study involved co-digesting OTA-contaminated bread with an NLC formulation and assessing the impact of the encapsulated carotenoid on OTA bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and cellular toxicity using Caco-2 and Jurkat T cells. Even though no significant influence was observed on the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of OTA, carotenoid-loaded NLCs exhibited cytoprotective effects by improving cell viability and mitigating OTA-induced toxicity in both Caco-2 and Jurkat T cells. Particularly, the flow cytometry analysis highlighted the ability of carotenoids to mitigate OTA-induced cellular damage by decreasing ROS production and limiting mitochondrial mass changes. The study suggests that the encapsulation of carotenoids in NLCs represents a promising strategy to enhance their protective effects against OTA toxicity, potentially offering a novel approach to food safety and public health protection. The study underscores the potential of nanotechnology in improving the bioavailability and efficacy of natural antioxidants to mitigate mycotoxin-induced damage.

Reutilization of Fruit Waste as Potential Prebiotic for Probiotic or Food-grade Microorganisms in Food Applications: A Review

Food waste has been a global issue with 2.5 billion tons generated globally in 2021. Approximately 46% of the food waste is contributed by fruit and vegetable waste. Due to improper waste handling, these fruit by-products have a negative impact on the environment through soil and water pollution, the greenhouse effect, global warming, and eutrophication. However, research has shown the potential to reuse fruit waste in various applications for sustainability owing to their high source of valuable components and potential health benefits. In recent years, researchers have also explored the potential of reutilizing fruit waste as a prebiotic. Hence, literatures from the past 10 years has been critically analyzed and presented in this review. This review focused on the potential of fruit waste as a prebiotic for probiotic and gastrointestinal microorganisms and its food applications. The nutritional composition and bioactive compounds of the fruit wastes had been introduced to reflect their potential as prebiotics. Moreover, the increase in bioactive compounds and bioactivities in probiotics with the presence of fruit wastes has been reviewed. The impact of fruit by-products on the growth of the probiotic and its survivability in food matrices as compared to established prebiotic and the absence of prebiotics have also been extensively discussed in this review. This review also highlighted some of the factors that might contribute to the negative effect of fruit waste on probiotics. The safety concerns and future prospects of reutilizing fruit wastes for food applications have been emphasized. The review article is beneficial for researchers exploring fruit wastes as prebiotics and industrialists who are interested in incorporating fruit wastes as an added-value ingredient for food applications.

Extraction and Synthesis of Typical Carotenoids: Lycopene, β-Carotene, and Astaxanthin

Carotenoids are tetraterpene compounds acting as precursors to vitamin A, with functions that include protecting eyesight, enhancing immunity, promoting cell growth and differentiation, and providing antioxidative benefits. Lycopene, β-carotene, and astaxanthin are particularly critical for health and have diverse applications in food, health products, and medicine. However, natural carotenoids are encased within cell structures, necessitating mechanical methods to disrupt the cell wall for their extraction and purification-a process often influenced by environmental conditions. Thus, improving the efficiency of carotenoid extraction from natural resources is of great interest. This review delves into the research progress made on the extraction processes, structures, and biological functions of carotenoids, focusing on lycopene, β-carotene, and astaxanthin. Traditional extraction methods primarily involve organic solvent-assisted mechanical crushing. With deeper research and technological advancements, more environmentally friendly solvents, advanced machinery, and suitable methods are being employed to enhance the extraction and purification of carotenoids. These improvements have significantly increased extraction efficiency, reduced preparation time, and lowered production costs, laying the groundwork for new carotenoid product developments.

New findings in the metabolism of the saffron apocarotenoids, crocins and crocetin, by the human gut microbiota

The main constituents of saffron are the apocarotenoids crocins and crocetin, present in the stigmas. Numerous healthy properties, especially those related to the effects on the central nervous system, have been attributed to these compounds but the metabolites responsible for these effects are still unknown. Previous evidences in animal models suggest a role for the gut microbiota in the pharmacokinetics and the neuroprotective effects of these compounds. However, the interaction between these apocarotenoids and the gut microbiota has been poorly studied. In this article, we have thoroughly investigated the batch fermentation of crocin-1 and crocetin (10 μM) with human fecal samples of two donors at different incubation times (0-240 h) using a metabolomic approach. We corroborated a rapid transformation of crocin-1 which looses the glucose molecules through de-glycosylation reactions until its complete transformation into crocetin in 6 hours. A group of intermediate crocins with different degrees of glycosylation were detected in a very short time. Crocetin was further metabolized and new microbial metabolites produced by double-bond reduction and demethylation reactions were identified for the first time: dihydro and tetrahydro crocetins and di-demethyl crocetin. In addition, we detected changes in the levels of the short chain fatty acids valeric acid and hexanoic acid suggesting further structural modifications of crocetin or changes in the catabolic production of these compounds. This research is a pioneering study of the action of the human gut microbiota on the saffron apocarotenoids and goes one step further towards the discovery of metabolites potentially involved in the benefits of saffron.

Treatment with Gac Fruit Extract and Probiotics Reduces Serum Trimethylamine N-Oxide in Chronic Kidney Disease Rats

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 850 million people worldwide, contributing to morbidity and mortality, particularly through cardiovascular disease (CVD). The altered composition in CKD patients leads to increased production and absorption of uremic toxins such as trimethylamine (TMA) and its oxidized form, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), which are associated with cardiovascular risks. This study investigated the potential of supplementary interventions with high-carotenoid-content gac fruit extract and probiotics to mitigate serum TMAO by modulating the gut microbiota. We conducted an animal study involving 48 male Wistar rats, divided into six groups: the control, CKD control, and four treatment groups receiving gac fruit extract, carotenoid extract, or combinations with Ligilactobacillus salivarius and Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus casei as a standard probiotic. CKD was induced in rats using cisplatin and they were supplemented with choline to enhance TMA production. The measures included serum creatinine, TMAO levels, gut microbiota composition, and the expression of fecal TMA lyase and intestinal zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1). CKD rats showed increased TMA production and elevated serum levels of TMAO. Treatment with gac fruit extract and selective probiotics significantly altered the composition of the gut microbiota by decreasing Actinobacteriota abundance and increasing the abundance of Bacteroides. This combination effectively promoted ZO-1 expression, reduced fecal TMA lyase, and subsequently lowered serum TMAO levels, demonstrating the therapeutic potential of these interventions. Our results highlight the benefits of gac fruit extract combined with probiotics for the effective reduction in serum TMAO levels in rats with CKD, supporting the further exploration of dietary and microbial interventions to improve outcomes in patients with CKD.

Reduction in Serum Carotenoid Levels Following One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass

Given the health benefits of carotenoids, it is crucial to evaluate their levels in patients undergoing malabsorptive procedures like one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB). This study aimed to assess serum carotenoid levels before and 6 months following OAGB. Prospectively collected data from patients who underwent primary OAGB were analyzed. Data included anthropometrics, dietary intake assessments, and biochemical tests. Serum samples were analyzed for lipid profile and serum carotenoids, including lutein, zeaxanthin, α-carotene, β-carotene, phytofluene, ζ-carotene, and lycopene. Data from 27 patients (median age 47.0 years and 55.6% female) were available before and 6 months post-OAGB. The median pre-surgical BMI was 39.5 kg/m2, and the median excess weight loss at 6 months post-surgery was 63.9%. Significant decreases in all carotenoid levels were observed over time (p < 0.001 for all). A median relative decline of 65.1% in absolute total carotenoid levels and 12.7% in total cholesterol levels were found. No associations were observed between changes in clinical outcomes and carotenoid levels during the study period. This study reveals significant decreases in carotenoid levels within the first 6 months following OAGB. Nutritional intervention studies are needed to explore how incorporating carotenoid-rich foods affects post-surgery carotenoid levels and clinical outcomes.

Vitamin A carotenoids, but not retinoids, mediate the impact of a healthy diet on gut microbial diversity

BACKGROUND

Vitamin A is essential for physiological processes like vision and immunity. Vitamin A's effect on gut microbiome composition, which affects absorption and metabolism of other vitamins, is still unknown. Here we examined the relationship between gut metagenome composition and six vitamin A-related metabolites (two retinoid: -retinol, 4 oxoretinoic acid (oxoRA) and four carotenoid metabolites, including beta-cryptoxanthin and three carotene diols).

METHODS

We included 1053 individuals from the TwinsUK cohort with vitamin A-related metabolites measured in serum and faeces, diet history, and gut microbiome composition assessed by shotgun metagenome sequencing. Results were replicated in 327 women from the ZOE PREDICT-1 study.

RESULTS

Five vitamin A-related serum metabolites were positively correlated with microbiome alpha diversity (r = 0.15 to r = 0.20, p < 4 × 10-6). Carotenoid compounds were positively correlated with the short-chain fatty-acid-producing bacteria Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Coprococcus eutactus. Retinol was not associated with any microbial species. We found that gut microbiome composition could predict circulating levels of carotenoids and oxoretinoic acid with AUCs ranging from 0.66 to 0.74 using random forest models, but not retinol (AUC = 0.52). The healthy eating index (HEI) was strongly associated with gut microbiome diversity and with all carotenoid compounds, but not retinoids. We investigated the mediating role of carotenoid compounds on the effect of a healthy diet (HEI) on gut microbiome diversity, finding that carotenoids significantly mediated between 18 and 25% of the effect of HEI on gut microbiome alpha diversity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show strong links between circulating carotene compounds and gut microbiome composition and potential links to a healthy diet pattern.

Carotenoid pattern intake and relation to metabolic status, risk and syndrome, and its components - divergent findings from the ORISCAV-LUX-2 survey

Carotenoids are generally associated with health-beneficial effects; however, their intake patterns related to the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components remain controversial. This cross-sectional study investigated associations between dietary intakes of individual carotenoids, fruits and vegetables, and the MetS and its components. Dietary intakes of 1346 participants of the Observation des Risques et de la Santé Cardio-Vasculaire au Luxembourg (ORISCAV-LUX-2) study were investigated by a 174-item FFQ, and carotenoid intake was determined by linking findings using mainly the USDA food databases. Components of MetS and complementary variables, including anthropometric (BMI, waist circumferences and waist:hip ratio) and biological parameters (TAG, HDL-cholesterol, fasting blood glucose and blood pressure), were measured. Logistic (for MetS) and linear multivariable regression models (including assessing MetS as scores) adjusted for various confounders were created. α-and β-Carotene, as well as lutein + zeaxanthin, were inversely associated with MetS (also when it was measured on a continuous scale), reducing the odds for MetS by up to 48 %. However, lycopene, phytoene and phytofluene were rather positively associated with MetS scores and its components, though these adverse effects disappeared, at least for lycopene, when controlling for intakes of tomato-based convenience foods, in line with indicating a rather unhealthy/westernised diet. All these associations remained significant when including fruits and vegetables as confounders, suggesting that carotenoids were related to MetS independently from effects within fruits and vegetables. Thus, a high intake of carotenoids was bidirectionally associated with MetS, its severity, risk and its components, depending on the type of carotenoid. Future investigations are warranted to explore the inverse role that tomato-based carotenoids appear to suggest in relation to the MetS.

Bioactivity and Bioavailability of Carotenoids Applied in Human Health: Technological Advances and Innovation

This article presents a groundbreaking perspective on carotenoids, focusing on their innovative applications and transformative potential in human health and medicine. Research jointly delves deeper into the bioactivity and bioavailability of carotenoids, revealing therapeutic uses and technological advances that have the potential to revolutionize medical treatments. We explore pioneering therapeutic applications in which carotenoids are used to treat chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and age-related macular degeneration, offering novel protective mechanisms and innovative therapeutic benefits. Our study also shows cutting-edge technological innovations in carotenoid extraction and bioavailability, including the development of supramolecular carriers and advanced nanotechnology, which dramatically improve the absorption and efficacy of these compounds. These technological advances not only ensure consistent quality but also tailor carotenoid therapies to each patient's health needs, paving the way for personalized medicine. By integrating the latest scientific discoveries and innovative techniques, this research provides a prospective perspective on the clinical applications of carotenoids, establishing a new benchmark for future studies in this field. Our findings underscore the importance of optimizing carotenoid extraction, administration, bioactivity, and bioavailability methods to develop more effective, targeted, and personalized treatments, thus offering visionary insight into their potential in modern medical practices.

Gut Microbiota and Clinical Manifestations in Thai Pediatric Patients with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder potentially linked to gut dysbiosis. This comparative cross-sectional study profiled the gut microbiota in 24 treatment-naïve Thai children diagnosed with ADHD and 24 healthy ones matched by age and gender (median age: 7 years). Fecal microbial compositions were genetically analyzed using 16s rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. The study findings indicated no statistically significant differences in microbial diversity between groups, although Firmicutes and Actinobacteria appeared dominant in both groups. Moreover, ADHD patients exhibited enrichment in Alloprevotella, CAG-352, Succinivibrio, and Acidaminococcus genera, while healthy controls had higher levels of Megamonas, Enterobacter, Eubacterium hallii, and Negativibacillus genera. Spearman correlation analysis demonstrated a significant positive association between CAG-352 and inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity scores, whereas the Eubacterium hallii group and Megamonas exhibited negative correlations with these symptomatology domains. Beta-carotene intake was associated with the Eubacterium hallii group and Succinivibrio: likewise, vitamin B2 intake was associated with Alloprevotella. Additional research should aim to elucidate the underlying mechanisms influencing clinical biomarkers that signify alterations in specific gut microbiome profiles linked to ADHD.

Fiber from elicited butternut pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata D. cv. Ariel) modulates the human intestinal microbiota dysbiosis

Elicited pumpkin was evaluated as a potential daily consumption product able to modulate the gut microbiota. An in vitro dynamic colonic fermentation performance with microbiota from obese volunteers was used. Prebiotic effects were observed after the pumpkin treatment. Bifidobacterium abundance was maintained during the treatment period whereas Lactobacillus increased in the transversal and descending colon. Conversely, Enterobacteriaceae and Clostridium groups were more stable, although scarce decreasing trends were observed for same species. Increments of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Limosilactobacillus fermentum (old Lactobacillus fermentum) were observed in the whole colonic tract after the treatment period. However, modulatory effects were mainly observed in the transversal and descending colon. Diverse bacteria species were increased, such as Akkermansia muciniphila, Bacteroides dorei, Cloacibacillus porcorum, Clostridium lactatifermentans, Ruminococcus albus, Ruminococcus lactaris, Coprococcus catus, Alistipes shahii or Bacteroides vulgatus. The prebiotic effect of the elicited pumpkin was provided by the fiber of the pumpkin, suggesting a release of pectin molecules in the transversal and distal colonic tract through low cellulosic fiber degradation, explaining the increases in the total propionic and butyric acid in these colonic sections. Also, a possible modulatory role of carotenoids from the sample was suggested since carotenes were found in the descending colon. Hence, the results of this research highlighted pumpkin as a natural product able to modulate the microbiota towards a healthier profile.

Impact of Production Systems on the Levels of Vitamin E, β-Carotene, and Cholesterol in the Liver of Cattle Raised in the Eastern Amazon

The nutritional composition of bovine liver, particularly in terms of vitamins E, β-carotene, and cholesterol concentration, is significantly influenced by the cattle-rearing system and diet. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of four predominant cattle-rearing systems in the Eastern Amazon region on the vitamin E, β-carotene content, and cholesterol levels in bovine liver during the rainy season. Liver-tissue samples were collected from 48 cattle, with twelve specimens representing each rearing system. The systems encompassed two native pastures located in flood-prone areas, cultivated pastures on upland terrain and a confinement-rearing system. Our findings indicate that, when considering all rearing systems collectively, there were no significant differences in the levels of vitamins and cholesterol in the liver tissues (p > 0.05). However, a marked disparity in cholesterol levels emerged when comparing intensive rearing systems to extensive ones, with the former demonstrating notably higher concentrations (p = 0.01). Additionally, the intensive rearing system was associated with elevated levels of β-carotene (p < 0.01), α-tocopherol (p = 0.01), and β-tocopherol (p = 0.01) relative to the extensive systems. No significant variations were observed amongst the different extensive systems (p > 0.05). These results suggest that, while all rearing systems yielded liver tissues with typical concentrations of vitamins and cholesterol, the intensive rearing system led to a higher accumulation of certain vitamin compounds. This study highlights the substantial nutritional implications of different cattle-rearing systems in the Eastern Amazon and provides valuable insights for developing dietary strategies to optimize the nutritional quality of bovine liver. Therefore, the generated results are groundbreaking in the Eastern Amazon, Brazil, and inspire the development of new research projects to address other demands in this field and achieve additional outcomes.

Protective effect of provitamin A dietary carotenoid intake on overweight/obesity and their relation to inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers - a case-control study

This investigation assessed associations between dietary carotenoid intake and the odds of overweight/obesity, as well as inflammatory/oxidative stress biomarkers, in 851 participants with overweight/obesity (BMI ≥25 kg m-2) and 754 normal-weight controls. A 124-item food-frequency-questionnaire (FFQ) and food composition databases were employed to estimate carotenoid intake. Binary logistic regressions assessed the association of carotenoid intake with the odds of overweight/obesity, adjusting for several potential confounders. Multiple linear regression models revealed associations between carotenoid intake and biomarkers (anthropometrics, blood lipids, inflammation, antioxidant status). Logistic regression models adjusted for various confounders and fruits and vegetables showed protective associations for provitamin A carotenoids (i.e., β-carotene + α-carotene + β-cryptoxanthin; odds ratio (OR): 0.655, p = 0.041) and astaxanthin (OR: 0.859, p = 0.017). Similarly adjusted multiple linear regressions revealed significant associations between several carotenoids and lower levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α and increased IL-10 and total antioxidant capacity. Further analysis revealed that lycopene was significantly associated with increased odds of overweight/obesity (OR: 1.595, p = 0.032) in a model adjusted for various confounders and vegetables (i.e., unadjusted for fruits). A protective association between the sum of provitamin A carotenoid and astaxanthin dietary intake and the odds of having overweight/obesity was found. The findings that carotenoids other than lycopene were not or inversely associated with the odds of overweight/obesity may point toward differentiating effects of various carotenoids or their associations with different food groups. Provitamin A rich food items including fruits and vegetables appear to be a prudent strategy to reduce inflammation and the odds of having overweight/obesity.

Dietary Habits and Depression in Community-Dwelling Chinese Older Adults: Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Moderating Role of Physical Exercise

BACKGROUND

Healthy diets and physical exercise, two modifiable lifestyle factors, are protective against depression in older adults. This study aimed to investigate whether physical exercise may influence the associations of dietary habits with depression in Chinese community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS

In the 2018 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey, 12,708 community-dwelling older adults aged ≥65 years were included for analyses. Older adults' dietary habits (including daily intake of food components such as fruits, vegetables, animal oil, and so on) and physical exercise were assessed. Depression was evaluated via the 10 item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D-10) scale. The influences of physical exercise on the associations of dietary habits with depression were estimated using logistic regression models adjusted for confounders.

RESULTS

Older adults who took physical exercise had a significantly decreased probability of depression (adjusted OR = 0.73, p < 0.001). As for dietary habits, the intake of fruits, vegetables, eggs, nut products, mushrooms or algae, and vitamins were inversely associated with the prevalence of depression (adjusted ORs = 0.61-0.81; p-values: from <0.001 to 0.025), while animal oil was positively associated with it (adjusted OR = 1.52, p < 0.001). When stratified by physical exercise, older adults who ate fruits or vegetables had consistent decreased risk of depression, no matter whether they took physical exercise or not (adjusted ORs = 0.52-0.70), while the intake of eggs, nut products, and vitamins were inversely associated, and animal oil was consistently positively associated with depression only in older adults who did not take physical exercise (adjusted ORs = 0.79, 0.68, 0.63, and 1.67, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Physical exercise may conceal the potential protective effects of some healthy dietary habits in terms of depression and counteract the detrimental effects of the unhealthy habits. Some dietary habits may be considered as alternative protective measures for depression in community-dwelling older adults when physical exercise cannot be performed.

Effects of carotenoids on mitochondrial dysfunction

Oxidative stress, an imbalance between pro-oxidant and antioxidant status, favouring the pro-oxidant state is a result of increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or inadequate antioxidant protection. ROS are produced through several mechanisms in cells including during mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Increased mitochondrial-derived ROS are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, an early event in age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's diseases (ADs) and in metabolic disorders including diabetes. AD post-mortem investigations of affected brain regions have shown the accumulation of oxidative damage to macromolecules, and oxidative stress has been considered an important contributor to disease pathology. An increase in oxidative stress, which leads to increased levels of superoxide, hydrogen peroxide and other ROS in a potentially vicious cycle is both causative and a consequence of mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial dysfunction may be ameliorated by molecules with antioxidant capacities that accumulate in mitochondria such as carotenoids. However, the role of carotenoids in mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction is not fully understood. A better understanding of the role of antioxidants in mitochondrial function is a promising lead towards the development of novel and effective treatment strategies for age-related diseases. This review evaluates and summarises some of the latest developments and insights into the effects of carotenoids on mitochondrial dysfunction with a focus on the antioxidant properties of carotenoids. The mitochondria-protective role of carotenoids may be key in therapeutic strategies and targeting the mitochondria ROS is emerging in drug development for age-related diseases.

Structure-property relationship of pea protein fibrils in stabilization of HIPEs and the encapsulation, protection, controlled release and oral delivery of carotenoids for alleviating intestinal inflammation

Increasing attentions are paid to high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) due to their unique properties. In this study, pea protein-based fibrils were used as emulsifier to stabilize HIPEs. We demonstrated that the molecular assembly pathway and interfacial behavior of pea protein-based fibrils are affected by ionic strength. And the increased abundance of highly flexible worm-like nanofibrils facilitated their adsorption and packing on oil droplets, resulting in improved emulsion properties to stabilize the HIPEs with the internal phase volume fraction as high as 90%. Based on this, high loading content of carotenoids up to 0.05 wt% in the prepared HIPEs, protection of their stability against heating, UV and iron ions, and significantly increased bio-accessibilities of the carotenoids were realized. Animal studies using a mouse model of DSS-induced colitis revealed that carotenoid loaded HIPEs can alleviate the colon injury, by downregulating the expression of inflammatory cytokines, and promoting intestinal barrier function. This work will deepen the understanding of the formation of pea protein fibrils and provide a reference for the rational use of carotenoid loaded HIPEs in IBD management.

Targeted metabolic profiling of the revived ancient 'Corbella' olive cultivar during early maturation

'Corbella' is an ancient olive cultivar whose cultivation has recently been revived and hence little is known about its composition. This is the first work studying the metabolic profile of 'Corbella' olives during early maturation. Olives with a ripening index (RI) < 1 yielded considerably less oil content (<40%) but had more concentration of phenolic compounds (148.41-219.70 mg/kg), carotenoids (9.61-14.94 mg/kg) and squalene (521.41-624.40 mg/kg). Contrarily, the levels of α-tocopherol were higher at the RI of 1.08 and 1.96 (64.57 and 57.75 mg/kg, respectively). The most abundant phenolic compound was oleuropein aglycone (>50% of the phenolic composition), suggesting a high hydrolytic activity of β-glucosidase in the fruit. The antioxidant capacity was barely affected, while oleic/linoleic ratio reached its highest at RI of 1.96. Therefore, olives with an RI below 2 could be good candidates to produce high-quality olive oils with good level of stability.

Astaxanthin alleviates chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome by increasing colonization of Akkermansia muciniphila in the intestine

BACKGROUND

Astaxanthin (AST) is a natural compound with anti-inflammatory/immunomodulatory properties that has been found to have probiotic properties. However, the role and mechanism of AST in chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) are still not fully understood.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of AST on CP/CPPS and elucidate the mediating role of the gut microbiota.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) mouse model was utilized to test the potential role of AST on CP/CPPS. Antibiotic cocktail (ABX) treatment and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) were used to elucidate the gut microbiota-mediated effects on AST. In addition, 16S rRNA gene sequencing and qRT-PCR analyses were used to analyze changes in the gut microbiota of EAP mice and CP/CPPS patients. Finally, the mechanism by which AST exerts a protective effect on CP/CPPS was explored by untargeted metabolomics and gut barrier function assays.

RESULTS

Oral administration of AST reduced prostate inflammation scores, alleviated tactile sensitization of the pelvic region in EAP mice, reduced CD4+ T cell and CD68+ macrophage infiltration in the prostatic interstitium, and inhibited the up-regulation of systemic and localized pain/pro-inflammatory mediators in the prostate. After ABX, the protective effect of AST against CP/CPPS was attenuated, whereas colonization with fecal bacteria from AST-treated EAP mice alleviated CP/CPPS. 16S rRNA gene sequencing and qRT-PCR analyses showed that Akkermansia muciniphila in the feces of EAP mice and CP/CPPS patients showed a trend toward a decrease, which was associated with poor progression of CP/CPPS. In contrast, oral administration of AST increased the relative abundance of A. muciniphila, and oral supplementation with A. muciniphila also alleviated inflammation and pain in EAP mice. Finally, we demonstrated that both AST and A. muciniphila interventions increased serum levels of SCFAs acetate, up-regulated expression of colonic tight junction markers, and decreased serum lipopolysaccharide levels in EAP mice.

CONCLUSION

Our results showed that AST improved CP/CPPS by up-regulating A. muciniphila, which provides new potentially effective strategies and ideas for CP/CPPS management.

Polysaccharides affect the utilization of β-carotene through gut microbiota investigated by in vitro and in vivo experiments

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of six polysaccharides on the utilization of β-carotene from the perspective of gut microbiota using both in vitro simulated anaerobic fermentation systems and in vivo animal experiments. In the in vitro experiments, the addition of arabinoxylan, arabinogalactan, mannan, inulin, chitosan, and glucan led to a 31.07-79.12% decrease in β-carotene retention and a significant increase in retinol content (0.21-0.99-fold) compared to β-carotene alone. Among them, the addition of chitosan produced the highest level of retinol. In the in vivo experiments, mice treated with the six polysaccharides exhibited a significant increase (2.51-5.78-fold) in serum β-carotene content compared to the group treated with β-carotene alone. The accumulation of retinoids in the serum, liver, and small intestine increased by 13.56-21.61%, 12.64-56.27%, and 7.9%-71.69%, respectively. The expression of β-carotene cleavage enzymes was increased in the liver. Genetic analysis of small intestinal tissue revealed no significant enhancement in the expression of genes related to β-carotene metabolism. In the gut microbiota environment, the addition of polysaccharides generated more SCFAs and altered the structure and composition of the gut microbiota. The correlation analysis revealed a strong association between gut microbes (Ruminococcaceae and Odoribacteraceae) and β-carotene metabolism and absorption. Collectively, our findings suggest that the addition of polysaccharides may improve β-carotene utilization by modulating the gut microbiota.

Carotenoids in Health as Studied by Omics-Related Endpoints

Carotenoids have been associated with risk reduction for several chronic diseases, including the association of their dietary intake/circulating levels with reduced incidence of obesity, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, and even lower total mortality. In addition to some carotenoids constituting vitamin A precursors, they are implicated in potential antioxidant effects and pathways related to inflammation and oxidative stress, including transcription factors such as nuclear factor κB and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2. Carotenoids and metabolites may also interact with nuclear receptors, mainly retinoic acid receptor/retinoid X receptor and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, which play a role in the immune system and cellular differentiation. Therefore, a large number of downstream targets are likely influenced by carotenoids, including but not limited to genes and proteins implicated in oxidative stress and inflammation, antioxidation, and cellular differentiation processes. Furthermore, recent studies also propose an association between carotenoid intake and gut microbiota. While all these endpoints could be individually assessed, a more complete/integrative way to determine a multitude of health-related aspects of carotenoids includes (multi)omics-related techniques, especially transcriptomics, proteomics, lipidomics, and metabolomics, as well as metagenomics, measured in a variety of biospecimens including plasma, urine, stool, white blood cells, or other tissue cellular extracts. In this review, we highlight the use of omics technologies to assess health-related effects of carotenoids in mammalian organisms and models.

A personalized diet intervention improves depression symptoms and changes microbiota and metabolite profiles among community-dwelling older adults

Introduction

The impact of diet on mental well-being and gut microorganisms in humans is well recognized. However, research on the connections between food nutrients, gut microbiota, and mental health remains limited. To address this, the present study aimed to assess the effects of a personalized diet, based on individual needs and aligned with the Mediterranean diet principles, on depression symptoms, quality of life, nutritional intake, and gut microbiota changes among older adults living in the community.

Methods

The intervention involved regular visits from a registered dietitian, who provided tailored dietary recommendations. During the 6-month study, participants completed questionnaires to evaluate their depression levels, quality of life, and dietary habits. Additionally, they provided stool samples for analysis of gut microbiota and metabolites.

Results

The results demonstrated that the personalized dietary intervention reduced depression symptoms and improved the quality of life among older adults. Furthermore, significant changes in the intake of certain nutrients, such as folate, lutein, zeaxanthin, EPA, and DHA, were observed following the intervention. Moreover, the intervention was associated with increased diversity in the gut microbiome and reduced total short-chain fatty acids, the main metabolites produced by gut microorganisms. The study also revealed correlations between food nutrients, gut microbiota, and mental health parameters.

Discussion

In conclusion, this research highlights the potential advantages of personalized dietary interventions in managing depression and enhancing overall well-being among older populations. It also sheds light on the role of gut microbiota and its metabolites in these effects. The findings offer valuable insights into the significance of nutrition and gut health for mental well-being in older adults.

Effect of carotenoids on gut health and inflammatory status: A systematic review of in vivo animal studies

Carotenoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, being a potential bioactive compound for gut health. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of carotenoids on gut microbiota, gut barrier, and inflammation in healthy animals. The systematic search from PubMed, Scopus, and Lilacs databases were performed up to March 2023. The final screening included thirty studies, with different animal models (mice, rats, pigs, chicks, drosophila, fish, and shrimp), and different carotenoid sources (β-carotene, lycopene, astaxanthin, zeaxanthin, lutein, and fucoxanthin). The results suggested that carotenoids seem to act on gut microbiota by promoting beneficial effects on intestinal bacteria related to both inflammation and SCFA production; increase tight junction proteins expression, important for reducing intestinal permeability; increase the mucins expression, important in protecting against pathogens and toxins; improve morphological parameters important for digestion and absorption of nutrients; and reduce pro-inflammatory and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines. However, different carotenoids had distinct effects on gut health. In addition, there was heterogeneity between studies regarding animal model, duration of intervention, and doses used. This is the first systematic review to address the effects of carotenoids on gut health. Further studies are needed to better understand the effects of carotenoids on gut health.

Carotenoids Diet: Digestion, Gut Microbiota Modulation, and Inflammatory Diseases

Several epidemiologic studies have found that consuming fruits and vegetables lowers the risk of getting a variety of chronic illnesses, including several types of cancers, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and bowel diseases. Although there is still debate over the bioactive components, various secondary plant metabolites have been linked to these positive health benefits. Many of these features have recently been connected to carotenoids and their metabolites' effects on intracellular signalling cascades, which influence gene expression and protein translation. Carotenoids are the most prevalent lipid-soluble phytochemicals in the human diet, are found in micromolar amounts in human serum, and are very susceptible to multiple oxidation and isomerisation reactions. The gastrointestinal delivery system, digestion processes, stability, and functionality of carotenoids, as well as their impact on the gut microbiota and how carotenoids may be effective modulators of oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, are still lacking research advances. Although several pathways involved in carotenoids' bioactivity have been identified, future studies should focus on the carotenoids' relationships, related metabolites, and their effects on transcription factors and metabolism.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Carotenoids in Mood Disorders: An Overview

Depression has a multifactorial etiology comprising family history and unemployment. This review aims to summarize the evidence available for the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of carotenoids in mood disorders. This review article’s methodologies were based on a search of the PubMed database for all linked published papers. Epidemiological studies indicate that a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish, and olive oil may prevent the development of depression. Antioxidant supplementation has been found to combat various stress-induced psychiatric disorders, including depression and anxiety. A growing body of evidence indicates that carotenoids have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Studies also suggest that poor dietary intake, particularly low intakes of fruit and vegetables and high intakes of fast food and other convenience foods, may increase the risk of developing depression. Thus, dietary interventions have the potential to help mitigate the risk of mental health decline in both the general population and those with mood disorders. Considering that carotenoids have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, it is expected that they might exert a promising antidepressant effect. Nevertheless, further studies (including interventional and mechanistic studies) assessing the effect of carotenoids on preventing and alleviating depression symptoms are needed.