Polyphenols from hawthorn peels and fleshes differently mitigate dyslipidemia, inflammation and oxidative stress in association with modulation of liver injury in high fructose diet-fed mice

Potential of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A promising future

In this editorial, we provide insights into the publication by Niu et al featured in the latest edition of the World Journal of Gastroenterology. Specifically, our focus was on exploring the potential of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) induced by a high-fat diet through various mechanisms. NAFLD is a common liver condition, affecting approximately 25% of the world's population. It is closely linked to metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, excessive body weight, and irregular lipid processing, leading to fat accumulation in the liver, as well as oxidative stress and inflammation. While maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle are essential for managing NAFLD, treatment options are limited due to undefined pathogenesis and a lack of specific medications. TCM, rooted in traditional Chinese practices, presents a promising alternative through its "syndrome differentiation and treatment" principles, enhancing liver lipid metabolism, reducing inflammation, and addressing fibrosis. Certain herbs, such as Poria cocos, Puaria lobata, and Salvia miltiorrhiza, have shown significant efficacy in reducing fat deposition and improving liver function. Due to systematic research and analysis of mechanisms, TCM is anticipated to yield new approaches to prevent and treat NAFLD, increasing its clinical application.

Hawthorn pectin plays a protective role in myocardial ischaemia by regulating intestinal flora and short chain fatty acids

Studies have shown that there is a close relationship between acute myocardial ischaemia (AMI) and intestinal flora imbalance. And pectin has a protective effect on AMI and regulates intestinal flora. Raw hawthorn pectin from hawthorn (RHP) is high methoxyl pectin, which is able to protect injury induced by AMI. After stir-frying of hawthorn, pectin from stir-fried hawthorn (FHP) transformed to low methoxyl pectin, the protective mechanisms against AMI is not well-understood. In this study, the protective effects of RHP and FHP against AMI rats were explored. The results revealed that FHP regulated myocardial enzymes including CK, CK-MB and CTn-1, oxidative stress-related indicator SOD more significantly than RHP. According to the determination of proportion of different kinds of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and abundance of microbiota producing SCFAs, it was speculated that RHP and FHP were fermented by these microbiota. RHP increased the proportion of acetic acid and butyric acid, while FHP increased the proportion of acetic acid in feces. Pretreatment with RHP and FHP enriched the beneficial microbiota and maintained the levels of SCFAs, which significantly increased after modeling. These results revealed that RHP and FHP played a protective role in myocardial ischaemia by regulating intestinal flora and SCFAs.

Isolation, structural properties and bioactivities of polysaccharides from Crataegus pinnatifida

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGIC RELEVANCE

Crataegus pinnatifida, commonly known as hawthorn, is a plant species with a long history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese medicine. Hawthorn polysaccharides (HP) have gained worldwide attention due to their decent biological activities and potential health benefits. Their excellent antioxidant activity, antitumor activity, immunomodulatory activity, hypoglycemic effect and hypolipidemic effects, intestinal microbiota modulatory activity makes them valuable in the field of ethnopharmacological research.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of the current review is to provide a systematic and comprehensive summary of the latest literatures and put forward the future perspectives on hawthorn polysaccharides in the context of its extraction, purification, structural characteristics and bioactivities. Furthermore, the underlying structure-bioactivity relationship of hawthorn polysaccharides was also explored and discussed. The current review would provide the important research underpinnings and the update the information for future development and application of hawthorn polysaccharides in the pharmaceutical and functional food industries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We use Google Scholar, CNKI, PubMed, Springer, Elsevier, Wiley, Web of Science and other online databases to search and obtain the literature on extraction, isolation, structural analysis and the biological activity of hawthorn polysaccharides published before October 2023. The key words are "extraction", "isolation and purification", "bioactivities", and "Crataegus pinnatifida polysaccharides ".

RESULTS

Crataegus pinnatifida has been widely used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, digestive disorders, inflammatory and oxidative stress in traditional Chinese medicine. Polysaccharides are the key active components of Crataegus pinnatifida which have gained widespread attention. The structure and bioactivity of polysaccharides from Crataegus pinnatifida varies in terms of raw materials, extraction methods and purification techniques. Crataegus pinnatifida polysaccharides possess diverse bioactivities, including antitumor, immunomodulatory, hypoglycemic activity, cardioprotective and antioxidant activities, among others. These biological properties can not only lay firm foundation for the treatment of diverse diseases, but also provide a theoretical basis for the in-depth study of the structure-activity relationship. In addition, the underlying structure-activity relationship is also explored and discussed, and further research and development of hawthorn polysaccharides are also prospected.

CONCLUSION

As a natural compound, hawthorn polysaccharides has garnered significant attention and held immense research potential. Hawthorn polysaccharides can be obtained through different extraction methods, including hot water extraction method, ultrasonic extraction method and enzymatic extraction method etc. The structures of hawthorn polysaccharides have also been characterized and reported in numerous studies. Moreover, hawthorn polysaccharides exhibit a wide range of bioactivities, such as the antioxidant activity, the antitumor activity, the immunomodulatory activity, the hypoglycemic effect and the hypolipidemic effect, as well as the intestinal microbiota modulatory activity. These diverse bioactivities contribute to the growing interest in hawthorn polysaccharides and its potential applications. Hawthorn polysaccharides has promising application prospects in various industries, including functional food, pharmaceuticals and biomedical research. Therefore, it is imperative to fully explore and harness the potential of hawthorn polysaccharides in the food and medicine fields.

Effect of hawthorn polyphenol extracts on the physicochemical properties and digestibility of corn starch

To investigate the effect of hawthorn polyphenols on the physicochemical properties and digestibility of corn starch, different proportions (1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% [w/w]) of hawthorn polyphenol extracts (HPEs) were mixed with corn starch, and their physicochemical properties and digestive properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Rapid Visco Analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and in vitro/in vivo analysis. Results indicated that small V-type crystal starch tended to be formed in the samples, and the addition of HPEs reduced the viscosity, prolonged the gelatinization temperature of corn starch, and increased the proportion of slowly digestible starch and resistant starch of the corn starch, which accounted for 36.32% ± 1.05% and 33.32% ± 4.07%, respectively. Compared with the raw corn starch, the postprandial blood glucose of mice that were administered the hawthorn polyphenols decreased significantly: the blood glucose peak (30 min) decreased from 14.30 ± 1.52 to 11.77 ± 1.21 mmol/L. Our study might provide some basic theoretical support for the application of hawthorn polyphenols in healthy starchy food processing.

Effect of Shan Zha (Hawthorn or Crataegus) on gastrointestinal cancer: A network pharmacology and molecular docking study

Background

Shan Zha (Hawthorn or Crataegus) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) most commonly used for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Gastrointestinal cancer is closely correlated with blood lipid levels. This study illustrates the potential anticancer effects of Shan Zha on gastrointestinal tumors based on network pharmacology and molecular docking.

Methods

Hawthorn's bioactive ingredients and drug targets were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP), Integrative Pharmacology-based Research Platform of Traditional Chinese Medicine version 2.0 (TCMIP v2.0), and Herbal Ingredients' Targets Platform (HIT 2.0) databases. Validated disease targets of gastrointestinal cancer were obtained from the Therapeutic Targets Database (TTD) and HIT 2.0 databases. Protein-protein interaction analysis of intersecting genes was performed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database. The functions of these genes were further analyzed by performing gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses. Molecular docking verification was performed using Molecular Operating Environment (MOE) software.

Results

Four main bioactive components were identified in Shan Zha. A total of 271 potential drug targets were identified, and 393 gastrointestinal-tumor targets were obtained. Through protein interaction analysis of intersecting targets, the main components of Shan Zha were found to interact more closely with proteins such as tumor protein p53 (TP53), AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (AKT1), JUN proto-oncogene (JUN), interleukin 6 (IL6), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed a total of 127 pathways, mainly involving pathways in multiple types of cancer, the Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt (PI3K-Akt) signaling pathway, and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance. Combined with The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) differential analysis, key targets, including TP53, cyclin D1 (CCND1), EGFR, and VEGFA, were screened. Molecular docking results showed that quercetin and kaempferol had the good binding potential for TP53, CCND1, EGFR, and VEGFA.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that Shan Zha exerts its effects on gastrointestinal cancers through a multitarget, multi-component, and a multi-pathway mechanism.

Advances in the study of the vascular protective effects and molecular mechanisms of hawthorn (Crataegus anamesa Sarg.) extracts in cardiovascular diseases

Hawthorn belongs to the rose family and is a type of functional food. It contains various chemicals, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and organic acid compounds. This study aimed to review the vascular protective effects and molecular mechanisms of hawthorn and its extracts on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Hawthorn has a wide range of biological functions. Evidence suggests that the active components of HE reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, regulate lipid levels to prevent lipid accumulation, and inhibit free cholesterol accumulation in macrophages and foam cell formation. Additionally, hawthorn extract (HE) can protect vascular endothelial function, regulate endothelial dysfunction, and promote vascular endothelial relaxation. It has also been reported that the effective components of hawthorn can prevent age-related endothelial dysfunction, increase cellular calcium levels, cause antiplatelet aggregation, and promote antithrombosis. In clinical trials, HE has been proved to reduce the adverse effects of CVDs on blood lipids, blood pressure, left ventricular ejection fraction, heart rate, and exercise tolerance. Previous studies have pointed to the benefits of hawthorn and its extracts in treating atherosclerosis and other vascular diseases. Therefore, as both medicine and food, hawthorn can be used as a new drug source for treating cardiovascular diseases.

Rapid determination of chemical components and antioxidant activity of the fruit of Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge by NIRS and chemometrics

OBJECTIVE

To establish a method for quality evaluation of the fruit of Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge, also known as Shanzha, by near-infrared spectroscopy combined with chemometrics.

METHOD

Seventy-two batches of Shanzha samples were collected, and the content of total components (flavonoids, phenols and organic acids), monomer components (chlorogenic acid, hyperoside and isoquercitrin), as well as the antioxidant activity of 60% ethanol extract were determined by usual methods. Then, all measured values were correlated with the near infrared spectra of Shanzha, and the partial least squares regression models were established. As to improve the model performance, various methods for spectra pretreatment and wavelength selection were investigated.

RESULTS

After optimization, the models obtained the coefficients of determination in both calibration and prediction >0.9, and the residual prediction deviations >3, indicating that the models had good prediction abilities.

CONCLUSION

The present method can serve as an alternative to the methods for comprehensive and rapid quality evaluation of Shanzha.

Exploring the binding effects and inhibiting mechanism of hyperoside to lipase using multi-spectroscopic approaches, isothermal titration calorimetry, inhibition kinetics and molecular dynamics

Hyperoside (HYP) is a flavonoid with various physiological activities. The present study examined the interaction mechanism between HYP and lipase using multi-spectrum and computer-aided techniques. Results demonstrated that the force type of HYP on lipase was mainly hydrogen bond, hydrophobic interaction force, and van der Waals force, and HYP had an excellent binding affinity with lipase at 1.576 × 10⁵ M^-1. HYP dose-dependently inhibited lipase in the inhibition experiment, and its IC₅₀ value was 1.92 × 10^-3 M. Moreover, the results suggested that HYP could inhibit the activity by binding to essential groups. Conformational studies indicated that the conformation and microenvironment of lipase were slightly changed after the addition of HYP. Computational simulations further confirmed the structural relationships of HYP to lipase. The interaction between HYP and lipase can provide ideas for the development of functional foods related to weight loss. The results of this study help comprehend the pathological significance of HYP in biological systems, as well as its mechanism.

Comparative efficacy of Chinese patent medicines for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A network meta-analysis

Background: The incidence of Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing year by year. Researches showed that Chinese patent medicines (CPMs) had achieved good efficacy in the treatment of Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, the debate on optimum Chinese patent medicine (CPM) persists. Therefore, we conducted a network meta-analysis to objectively compare the efficacy of different Chinese patent medicines in the treatment of Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database were used as databases for RCT researches retrieval. The retrieval time was from establishment of the database to July 2022. After effective data was extracted, Review Manager 5.4 and Cochrane Collaboration System Evaluator's Manual were used to assess bias risk. STATA 16.0 based on frequency theory was used for the network meta-analysis. Results: Totally 39 studies were included, involving 13 Chinese patent medicines, including 4049 patients, of which 42 patients were lost. In terms of improving clinical efficiency rate, Zhibitai capsule was most likely the best choice of Chinese patent medicine for Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Liuwei Wuling tablet had the best effect in reducing serum ALT and AST; Gandan Shukang capsule had the best effect in reducing serum GGT; Qianggan capsule had the best effect in reducing serum TG; Dangfei Liganning capsule had the best effect in reducing serum TC. None of the included studies had serious adverse reactions. Conclusion: For patients with Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in this NMA, Zhibitai capsule, Liuwei Wuling tablet, Gandan Shukang capsule, Qianggan capsule, Dangfei Liganning capsule might be noteworthy. Due to the uclear risk bias, better designed double-blind, multi center and large sample RCTs are needed which resolve the problems of blinding, selective reporting and allocation concealment. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022341240.

Is it possible to treat nonalcoholic liver disease using a flavanol-based nutraceutical approach? Basic and clinical data

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by a spectrum of diseases, ranging from simple steatosis to hepatocellular carcinoma. The main factors for NAFLD are closely related to obesity, insulin resistance, intestinal microbiota alterations, hyperinsulinism, low-grade systemic inflammation, nitroxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Currently, the treatment of NAFLD is based on diet and exercise because, to date, there is no specific pharmacological agent, already approved, that raises the need for new therapeutic strategies. Nutraceuticals, such as polyphenols, have potential beneficial effects for health. In this article, the beneficial effects of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and (-)-epicatechin (EC) are discussed. EGCG is the main catechin in green tea, which has shown in various studies its potential effect preventing and treating NAFLD since it has shown antihyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, antioxidant, and improvement of liver lipid metabolism. However, it has been found that excessive consumption may cause hepatotoxicity. EC is widely distributed in nature (fruits and vegetables). This flavanol has shown many beneficial effects, including antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, antithrombotic, and antifibrotic properties. It increases mitochondrial biogenesis, and it also has effects on the regulation of synthesis and metabolism of lipids. This flavanol is a nontoxic substance; it has been classified by the United States Food and Drug Administration as harmless. The EC-induced effects can be useful for the prevention and/or treatment of NAFLD.

Botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of Crataegus pinnatifida (Chinese hawthorn): a review

OBJECTIVES

Crataegus pinnatifida (C. pinnatifida), including C. pinnatifida Bge. and its variant C. pinnatifida Bge. var. major N, E. Br., has traditionally been used as a homologous plant for traditional medicine and food in ethnic medical systems in China. Crataegus pinnatifida, especially its fruit, has been used for more than 2000 years to treat indigestion, stagnation of meat, hyperlipidemia, blood stasis, heart tingling, sores, etc. This review aimed to provide a systematic summary on the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and clinical applications of C. pinnatifida.

KEY FINDINGS

This plant contains flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, terpenoids, organic acids, saccharides and essential oils. Experimental studies showed that it has hypolipidemic, antimyocardial, anti-ischemia, antithrombotic, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic neuroprotective activity, etc. Importantly, it has good effects in treating diseases of the digestive system and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems.

SUMMARY

There is convincing evidence from both in vitro and in vivo studies supporting the traditional uses of C. pinnatifida. However, multitarget network pharmacology and molecular docking technology should be used to study the interaction between the active ingredients and targets of C. pinnatifida. Furthermore, exploring the synergy of C. pinnatifida with other Chinese medicines to provide new understanding of complex diseases may be a promising strategy.

Food Applications and Potential Health Benefits of Hawthorn

Hawthorn (Crataegus) is a plant of the Rosaceae family and is widely grown throughout the world as one of the medicinal and edible plants, known as the “nutritious fruit” due to its richness in bioactive substances. Preparations derived from it are used in the formulation of dietary supplements, functional foods, and pharmaceutical products. Rich in amino acids, minerals, pectin, vitamin C, chlorogenic acid, epicatechol, and choline, hawthorn has a high therapeutic and health value. Many studies have shown that hawthorn has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-cardiovascular disease, and digestive enhancing properties. This is related to its bioactive components such as polyphenols (chlorogenic acid, proanthocyanidin B2, epicatechin), flavonoids (proanthocyanidins, mucoxanthin, quercetin, rutin), and pentacyclic triterpenoids (ursolic acid, hawthornic acid, oleanolic acid), which are also its main chemical constituents. This paper briefly reviews the chemical composition, nutritional value, food applications, and the important biological and pharmacological activities of hawthorn. This will contribute to the development of functional foods or nutraceuticals from hawthorn.

LC–MS-based lipidomic analysis of liver tissue sample from spontaneously hypertensive rats treated with extract hawthorn fruits

At present, many experiments provide support for the cardiovascular protective effect of hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha) flower, leaf and fruit extracts. The aim of this study was to investigate the intervention mechanism of hawthorn fruit extract on spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and its effect on their lipid metabolic pattern. After SHR was intervened by hawthorn extract (1.08 g/kg/d) for 6 weeks, the blood pressure and liver histopathology of rats were evaluated. An UHPLC-Q Extractive metabolomics approach was used to collect information on rat liver lipid metabolites, combined with multivariate data analysis to identify significantly different substances and potential biomarkers through mass spectrometry and database searches. Histomorphology of the liver was partially restored in the hawthorn-treated group. Hawthorn extract interferes with sphingolipid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism and glycerolipids metabolism, improving partially disturbed metabolic pathways. This study showed that hawthorn could partially restore liver histomorphology and has anti-hypertensive effect by regulating lipid metabolism.

Orientin Attenuated d-GalN/LPS-Induced Liver Injury through the Inhibition of Oxidative Stress via Nrf2/Keap1 Pathway

Oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenesis of liver diseases, including liver injury, a serious health problem worldwide. Natural polyphenols have attracted increasing attention as potential agents for the prevention and treatment of liver diseases. Orientin, a flavonoid component with antioxidant capacity, has been regarded as a promising nutraceutical for patients with liver damage. This study aimed to investigate the amelioration effect of orientin on d-galactosamine and lipopolysaccharides (d-GalN/LPS) induced liver injury in mice, with a focus on its underlying mechanisms by using the H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage model of HepG2 cells. Results indicated that orientin alleviated d-GalN/LPS-induced liver damage by improving the hepatic histological changes and reducing the levels of hepatic and serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartic acid aminotransferase. Additionally, supplementation of orientin improved the antioxidant ability in mice by decreasing the levels of hepatic malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl, myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, gluathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase. Orientin treatment significantly elevated both the protein and mRNA expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, Kelch-like ECH-associated protein-1, heme oxygenase-1, and nicotinamide quinone oxidoreductase 1 in liver and HepG2 cells. The management of orientin also elevated the protein expression of glutathione S-transferase and Maf in HepG2 cells. Taken together, it suggested that orientin played an amelioration effect on liver injury by suppressing oxidative stress, which might be strongly related to the activation of Nrf2/ARE through PI3K/Akt and P38/MAPK signal pathways.

Preventive Effect of Apple Polyphenol Extract on High-Fat Diet-Induced Hepatic Steatosis in Mice through Alleviating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

In this work, the protective effect of apple polyphenol extract (APE) on hepatic steatosis was investigated. Thirty-two C57BL/6J mice were assigned randomly to control group, hepatic steatosis group, lovastatin group, and APE group. After 8 weeks of intervention, APE supplementation markedly decreased the body weight gain, liver weight, liver index, epididymal adipose weight, epididymal adipose index, serum, and hepatic lipid levels. Hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed that APE supplementation alleviated histopathological changes of hepatic steatosis. Western blot revealed that APE downregulated the protein levels of GRP78, IRE1α, p-IRE1α, XBP1, PERK, p-PERK, p-eIF2α, ATF6, PPAR-γ, SREBP-1c, FAS, and ACC1. In conclusion, this study found that APE inhibited IRE1α-XBP1, PERK-eIF2α, and ATF6 signaling pathways to alleviate endoplasmic reticulum stress, thereby improving HFD-induced hepatic steatosis.

Potential Roles and Key Mechanisms of Hawthorn Extract against Various Liver Diseases

The genus Crataegus (hawthorn), a flowering shrub or tree, is a member of the Rosaceae family and consists of approximately 280 species that have been primarily cultivated in East Asia, North America, and Europe. Consumption of hawthorn preparations has been chiefly associated with pharmacological benefits for cardiovascular diseases, including congestive heart failure and angina pectoris. Treatment with hawthorn extracts can be related to improvements in the complex pathogenesis of various hepatic and cardiovascular disorders. In this regard, the present review described that the presence of hawthorn extracts ameliorated hepatic injury, lipid accumulation, inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer in an abundance of experimental models. Hawthorn extracts might have these promising activities, largely by enhancing the hepatic antioxidant system. In addition, several mechanisms, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling and apoptosis, are responsible for the role of hawthorn extracts in repairing the dysfunction of injured hepatocytes. Specifically, hawthorn possesses a wide range of biological actions relevant to the treatment of toxic hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Accordingly, hawthorn extracts can be developed as a major source of therapeutic agents for liver diseases.

Water extract of Ferula lehmanni Boiss. prevents high-fat diet-induced overweight and liver injury by modulating the intestinal microbiota in mice

Obesity, often accompanied by hepatic steatosis, has been associated with an increased risk of health complications such as fatty liver disease and certain cancers. Ferula lehmannii Boiss., a food and medicine homologue, has been used for centuries as a seasoning showing anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant effects on digestive discomfort. In the present study, we sought to investigate whether a short-term oral administration of water extract of Ferula lehmanni Boiss. (WEFL) could prevent high-fat diet (HFD)-induced abnormal weight gain and hepatic steatosis in mice and its underlying mechanisms. WEFL reduced HFD-increased body weight, liver injury markers and inflammatory cytokines (i.e. IL-6 and IL-1β), and inhibited the elevation of AMPKα, SREBP-1c and FAS in HFD. Moreover, WEFL reconstructed the gut microbiota composition by increasing the relative abundances of beneficial bacteria, e.g. Akkermansia spp., while decreasing Desulfovibrio spp. and so on, thereby reversing the detrimental effects of HFD in mice. Removal of the gut microbiota with antibiotics partially eliminated the hepatoprotective effects of WEFL. Notably, WEFL substantially promoted the levels of short-chain fatty acids, especially butyric acid. To clarify the functional components at play in WEFL, we used UPLC-MS/MS to comprehensively detect its substance composition and found it to be a collection of polyphenol-rich compounds. Together, our findings demonstrate that WEFL prevented HFD-induced obesity and liver injury through the hepatic-microbiota axis, and such health-promoting value might be explained by the enriched abundant polyphenols.

Process Efficiency and Energy Consumption during the Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Substances from Hawthorn Berries

This study investigated the impact of sonication parameters on the efficiency of the extraction of bioactive substances from hawthorn berries. The ultrasonic treatment was performed in two modes: continuous and pulse. In the pulse mode, the samples were sonicated with the following processor settings: 1 s on-2 s off. The effective ultrasonic processor times were 5, 10, and 15 min, and the total extraction times were 15 min, 30 min, and 45 min. The content of total polyphenols and total anthocyanins was determined by a spectrophotometric method. We show that the operating mode of the processor affects extraction efficiency, energy consumption and unit energy inputs. Extraction supported by a pulsating ultrasonic field allowed saving from 20% to 51% of energy with a simultaneous higher efficiency of the process. In addition, we show that the unit energy consumption in the pulsed mode was about 40% to 68% lower than the energy consumption in the case of continuous operation.

Bioactivity of Dietary Polyphenols: The Role in LDL-C Lowering

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of the death around the world. An elevation of the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level is one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. To achieve optimal plasma LDL-C levels, clinal therapies were investigated which targeted different metabolism pathways. However, some therapies also caused various adverse effects. Thus, there is a need for new treatment options and/or combination therapies to inhibit the LDL-C level. Dietary polyphenols have received much attention in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases due to their potential LDL-C lowering effects. However, the effectiveness and potential mechanisms of polyphenols in lowering LDL-C is not comprehensively summarized. This review focused on dietary polyphenols that could reduce LDL-C and their mechanisms of action. This review also discussed the limitations and suggestions regarding previous studies.

Traditional Chinese Medicine in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: molecular insights and therapeutic perspectives

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the world's largest chronic liver disease, while there is still no specific drug to treat NAFLD. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been widely used in hepatic diseases for centuries in Asia, and TCM's holistic concept and differentiation treatment of NAFLD show their advantages in the treatment of this complex metabolic disease. However, the multi-compounds and multi-targets are big obstacle for the study of TCM. Here, we summarize the pharmacological actions of active ingredients from frequently used single herbs in TCM compounds. The combined mechanism of herbs in TCM compounds are further discussed to explore their comprehensive effects on NAFLD. This article aims to summarize multiple functions and find the common ground for TCM treatment on NAFLD, thus providing enrichment to the scientific connotation of TCM theories and promotes the exploration of TCM therapies on NAFLD.

Hawthorn Herbal Preparation from Crataegus oxyacantha Attenuates In Vivo Carbon Tetrachloride -Induced Hepatic Fibrosis via Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Hawthorn (HAW) is a herbal preparation extracted from Crataegus oxyacantha. HAW has cardioprotective, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hypotensive effects. HAW’s effect on hepatic fibrosis remains, however, unknown. This study evaluated the impact of HAW on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats and elucidated its mechanisms. HAW reduced liver index and the serum liver enzyme markers and reduced liver damage, and fibrosis as confirmed by histopathological scoring of hematoxylin-eosin staining. Collagen deposition was reduced in HAW group compared to CCl4 group as confirmed by Masson staining, hydroxyproline content, and both mRNA and protein levels of alpha-smooth muscle actin, collagen 1 and 3. HAW also down regulated the gene expressions of inflammatory markers including interleukin-IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, transforming growth factor-β 1, nuclear factor kappa-B, and cyclooxygenase-2 and decreased the myeloperoxidase activity. The effects of HAW was also associated with decreased levels of hepatic oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde and P.Carbonyl) and with increased activity of superoxide dismutase. Those effects are possibly mediated by blocking the pro-oxidant machinery and down regulating the inflammatory and profibrotic responses. Finally, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, rutin, vitexin quercetin, and iso quercetin were identified as the major species of polyphenols of the HAW herbal preparation used here. Therefore, HAW’s potent protecting effects against liver fibrosis predicts a significant beneficial application.

Pandanus conoideus Lamk Oil Protects Against Inflammation Through Regulating Reactive Oxygen Species in LPS-Induced Murine Macrophages

The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of Pandanus conoideus Lamk (red fruit oil [RFO]) and establish the signal pathway of the leading compounds. RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells were used with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cell viability and the pro-inflammatory factors were investigated using MTT assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), western blot analysis, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The quantification of leading compounds in RFO was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). RFO did not reduce RAW 264.7 cell viability. RFO significantly reduced the production of nitric oxide (NO), cyclooxygenase-2, and prostaglandin E2, and both the protein level and mRNA level of inducible NO synthase in LPS-induced macrophages. RFO also regulated the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in LPS-induced macrophages. RFO attenuated the translocation of the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) p65 subunit, phosphorylation of I-κB, p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in a dose-dependent manner. HPLC analysis determined that 1 g of RFO had 14.05 ± 0.8 mg of β-cryptoxanthin and 7.4 ± 0.7 mg of β-carotene. In conclusion, RFO provides an anti-inflammatory effect by regulating ROS and NF-κB through mitogen-activated protein kinase due to antioxidant activity.

Protective effect of hawthorn extract against genotoxicity induced by benzo(<alpha>)pyrene in C57BL/6 mice

Benzo(<alpha>)pyrene [B(<alpha>)P], widely originated from environmental pollution or food process such as roasting and frying, is a strong mutagen and potent carcinogen. Utilization of hawthorn has been reported against physical mutagens. Our study found that hawthorn extract (HE) contained abundant phenolic compounds, wherein chlorogenic acid was 2.78 mg/g, procyanidine B2 was 3.58 mg/g, epicatechin was 2.99 mg/g DW, which may contribute to anti-genotoxicity activity. So, the role of HE against B(<alpha>)P-induced genotoxicity in C57BL/6 mice was further assessed. Fifty mice were distributed into five groups: control group, B(<alpha>)P group (30 mg/kg, i.p.), B(<alpha>)P + HE-L group (100 mg/kg, i.g.), B(<alpha>)P + HE-M group (200 mg/kg, i.g.), B(<alpha>)P + HE-H group (400 mg/kg, i.g.). Mice were orally administered with solutions of HE for 10 days and injected intraperitoneally with B(<alpha>)P for 3 days from the 8th day. Results showed that B(<alpha>)P can induce significantly pathological damage in liver, lung and spleen, as well as decrease white blood cells (WBCs). Remarkably elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA strand breaks (DSBs) and G1 cell cycle arrest were also found in B(<alpha>)P group, with upregulated expressions of p-H2AX, p-p53 and p21 in bone marrow cells. With administration of HE, liver, lung and spleen injury significantly mitigated, while WBCs were evidently increased in B(<alpha>)P-treated mice. Consistently, HE markedly reduced level of ROS, DSBs and G1 cell cycle arrest accompanied by reducing expressions of p-H2AX, p-p53 and p21 in bone marrow cells. Combined, these results indicated a protective role of HE on B(<alpha>)P-induced genotoxicity.

Total Flavonoid Extract from Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida) Improves Inflammatory Cytokines-Evoked Epithelial Barrier Deficit

Background

Intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction is involved in the development and pathogenesis of intestinal diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and celiac disease. This study was performed to evaluate the ability of total flavonoid extract from hawthorn (TFH) to improve TNF-α-evoked intestinal epithelial barrier deficit.

Material/Methods

Caco-2 cells monolayers were exposed to TNF-α in different concentrations of TFH. Intestinal epithelial barrier function was evaluated using epithelial permeability and transepithelial electrical resistance (TER).

Results

Our findings showed that TFH alleviated the increase of paracellular permeability and the decline of transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) evoked by TNF-α. Additionally, 24-h pre-incubation with TFH inhibited TNF-α-evoked secretion of pro-inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, and IL-1β). Furthermore, TFH inhibited TNF-α-evoked overexpression of pMLC and MLCK and alleviated breakdown of TJs protein (ZO-1 and occludin). The activations of Elk-1 and NFκBp65 were inhibited by TFH pre-incubation.

Conclusions

TFH can alleviate TNF-α-evoked intestinal epithelial barrier deficit via the NFκBp65-mediated MLCK-MLC signaling pathway.

Polysaccharides from Enteromorpha prolifera protect against carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver injury in mice via activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling, and suppression of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis

EPP protected against hepatic injury induced by CCl₄-derived reactive intermediates through the suppression of hepatic oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Possible role of l-carnitine in improvement of metabolic and hepatic changes in hyperuricemic and hyperuricemic-Fructose-supplemented rats

Hyperuricemia was linked to diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and oxidative stress, and could be induced by higher fructose consumption through altering energy status in liver. l-Carnitine is an antioxidant, affecting mitochondria and cellular energetics; however, little is known about its effects in hyperuricemic states. This study investigated metabolic and hepatic effects of hyperuricemia and fructose feeding, and demonstrated the role of l-Carnitine in such states. Fifty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into control, untreated hyperuricemic, fructose-supplemented hyperuricemic, l-Carnitine-treated hyperuricemic, and l-Carnitine-treated fructose-supplemented hyperuricemic groups. The separated plasma was used for determination of the glycemic control, lipid profile, liver function tests, uric acid level, and oxidative stress markers. Atherogenic index, HOMA-IR, and body mass index (BMI) were calculated. Left liver lobe and left kidney specimen from all groups were used for histopathological studies. Hyperuricemic rats exhibited significantly hypoalbuminemia, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress compared to the controls. Fructose-supplemented hyperuricemic group showed obesity and more deleterious effects, as well as, steatosis, and renal tubular damage compared to the hyperuricemic rats. Concomitant l-Carnitine treatment with hyperuricemia improved such effects, despite causing adiposity. While combined l-Carnitine treatment and fructose supplementation in hyperuricemia limited the aggressive hyperuricemic picture of fructose supplementation. It is concluded that hyperuricemia has detrimental metabolic and hepatic effects. Artificial fructose supplementation worsened such effects, while l-Carnitine was efficient in ameliorating these hyperuricemia and/or excess fructose-induced hyperuricemia effects, through its anti-inflammatory, antisteatotic, and antioxidant properties.

Effects of three drying methods on polyphenol composition and antioxidant activities of Litchi chinensis Sonn

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of three different drying methods, freeze drying (FD), vacuum drying (VD) and oven drying (OD) on phenolic contents and antioxidant activities of litchi fruits. 20 polyphenols were exactly identified in the litchi fruits by UPLC-QqQ/MS. Significant losses were observed in the contents of total polyphenols and antioxidant activities in the dried litchi when compared with the fresh litchi. Principle component analysis indicated that there was significant difference of phenolic component between the use of thermal drying (VD and OD) and FD. Our results suggest that FD is the optimum drying method for litchi fruits considering the content of total polyphenols and antioxidant activities.

Soybean soluble polysaccharides enhance bioavailability of genistein and its prevention against obesity and metabolic syndrome of mice with chronic high fat consumption

This study aimed to explore a novel strategy for the simultaneous consumption of soluble soybean polysaccharides (SSPS) and insoluble genistein to improve the bioavailability of genistein and its prevention against obesity and metabolic syndrome in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese mice. C57BL/6J mice were fed a normal diet and HFD supplemented or not (n = 8) with SSPS (2.5%), genistein (0.5%) and their mixture (S + G) for 12 weeks. The UPLC-qTOP/MS assay showed that SSPS observably enhanced the urinary concentration of genistein and its metabolites compared to that of single genistein in mice. Supplementation of SSPS, genistein or their combination prevented HFD-induced gain weight, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress and inflammation in obese mice. Interestingly, the combined S + G ingestion exhibited more effective alleviation of dyslipidemia by modulating hepatic FAS, ACC, SREBP-1C and ADRP expressions relative to that of individual SSPS or genistein. Furthermore, S + G activated the energy metabolism pathway AMPK in the liver, and the hepatic PPAR-α/PPAR-γ pathways were doubly activated to alleviate lipogenesis, inflammation, obesity and metabolic syndrome. Moreover, S + G supplementation dramatically modified the gut microbial species at the phylum level with a decrease in Firmicutes and increase in Bacteroidetes. These findings support that the combined supplementation of SSPS and genistein is a novel couple to prevent obesity and metabolic syndrome.

Sargassum hystrix as a Source of Functional Food to Improve Blood Biochemistry Profiles of Rats under Stress

This study was conducted to determine the influence of Sargassum hystrix powder (SHP) as an alternative source of functional food for treating in vivo stress by measuring levels of glucose, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, and cortisol, and liver histopathology. Wistar rats aged 3 months and weighing 150~200 g were divided into 7 groups: normal control, fasting control, negative control (stress without adaptogen), and 4 experimental conditions (stress+0.18 mg/kg diazepam, stress+450 mg/kg pellet, stress+mixture of pellet with SHP 450 mg/kg, and stress+450 mg/kg of SHP). Intake of liquids and and body weight were measured daily. Blood samples were collected on day 0 (baseline), day 5, and day 10 to analyze levels of glucose, triacylglycerol, cholesterol, and cortisol. On day 10, rats were euthanized and livers were collected to observe the severity of inflammation. The results indicated that rats receiving SHP 450 mg/kg and the mixture of pellet with SHP 450 mg/kg showed a similar ability as those receiving diazepam 0.18 mg/kg to cope with stress, indicated by an improvement in all blood biochemistry parameters. Supplementation with SHP 450 mg/kg can be used as an alternative source of functional food for overcoming oxidative stress, as indicated by its ability to improve levels of blood glucose, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, and cortisol, and to improve liver histology by decreasing severity of liver inflammation.

High fructose diet-induced metabolic syndrome: Pathophysiological mechanism and treatment by traditional Chinese medicine

Fructose is a natural monosaccharide broadly used in modern society. Over the past few decades, epidemiological studies have demonstrated that high fructose intake is an etiological factor of metabolic syndrome (MetS). This review highlights research advances on fructose-induced MetS, especially the underlying pathophysiological mechanism as well as pharmacotherapy by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), using the PubMed, Web of science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal and Wanfang Data. This review focuses on de novo lipogenesis (DNL) and uric acid (UA) production, two unique features of fructolysis different from glucose glycolysis. High level of DNL and UA production can result in insulin resistance, the key pathological event in developing MetS, mostly through oxidative stress and inflammation. Some other pathologies like the disturbance in brain and gut microbiota in the development of fructose-induced MetS in the past years, are also discussed. In management of MetS, TCM is an excellent representative in alternative and complementary medicine with a complete theory system and substantial herbal remedies. TCMs against MetS or MetS components, including Chinese patent medicines, TCM compound formulas, single TCM herbs and active compounds of TCM herbs, are reviewed on their effects and molecular mechanisms. TCMs with hypouricemic activity, which specially target fructose-induced MetS, are highlighted. And new technologies and strategies (such as high-throughput assay and systems biology) in this field are further discussed. In summary, fructose-induced MetS is a multifactorial disorder with the underlying complex mechanisms. Current clinical and pre-clinical evidence supports the potential of TCMs in management of MetS. Additionally, TCMs may show some advantages against complex MetS as their holistic feature through multiple target actions. However, further work is needed to confirm the effectivity and safety of TCMs by high-standard clinical trials, clarify the molecular mechanisms, and develop new anti-MetS drugs by development and application of optimized and feasible strategies and methods.

Enhanced anti-obesity effects of bacterial cellulose combined with konjac glucomannan in high-fat diet-fed C57BL/6J mice

This study aimed to investigate the effects of supplementation with bacterial cellulose (BC), konjac glucomannan (KGM) and combined BC/KGM fiber on high-fat (HF)-diet-induced obesity in C57BL/6J mice.

Dietary supplementation with rutin has pro-/anti-inflammatory effects in the liver of juvenile GIFT tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus

Dietary supplementation with rutin may have some pharmacological qualities including anti-inflammatory effects. Kupffer cell activation resulted in increased transcription of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the pro- and anti-inflammatory activities in juvenile freshwater tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, in response to 0.1 or 0.3 g/kg dietary supplementation of rutin. Results showed that hepatic IgM, anti-inflammatory-cytokines, and pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly decreased in groups treated with high doses of rutin. Hepatic IgM and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and IFN-γ) transcripts were significantly decreased, whereas the transcripts of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNFα and IL-1β were significantly decreased, whereas IL-8 was significantly increased. The number of Kupffer cells in rutin-treated groups was significantly decreased, and scanning electron micrographs showed that rutin enriched the number of gut microvilli and secretion pits. With the phenomena of cell apoptosis occurred in the rutin groups, the present study demonstrated that optimum levels of rutin may be beneficial but excessive level may cause liver impairment, which may be absorbed by the gut and then transported to the liver.

Effects of Natural Products on Fructose-Induced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

As a sugar additive, fructose is widely used in processed foods and beverages. Excessive fructose consumption can cause hepatic steatosis and dyslipidemia, leading to the development of metabolic syndrome. Recent research revealed that fructose-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is related to several pathological processes, including: (1) augmenting lipogenesis; (2) leading to mitochondrial dysfunction; (3) stimulating the activation of inflammatory pathways; and (4) causing insulin resistance. Cellular signaling research indicated that partial factors play significant roles in fructose-induced NAFLD, involving liver X receptor (LXR)α, sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP)-1/1c, acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), fatty acid synthase (FAS), stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD), peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor α (PPARα), leptin nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), c-Jun amino terminal kinase (JNK), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Until now, a series of natural products have been reported as regulators of NAFLD in vivo and in vitro. This paper reviews the natural products (e.g., curcumin, resveratrol, and (−)-epicatechin) and their mechanisms of ameliorating fructose-induced NAFLD over the past years. Although, as lead compounds, natural products usually have fewer activities compared with synthesized compounds, it will shed light on studies aiming to discover new drugs for NAFLD.