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Di Majo D, Ricciardi N, Di Liberto V, Allegra M, Frinchi M, Urone G, Scordino M, Massaro A, Mudò G, Ferraro G, Sardo P, Giglia G, Gambino G. The remarkable impact of Opuntia Ficus Indica fruit administration on metabolic syndrome: Correlations between cognitive functions, oxidative stress and lipid dysmetabolism in the high-fat, diet-fed rat model. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117028. [PMID: 38959603 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A wealth of evidence underscores the bioactive properties of nutraceuticals and functional foods in addressing oxyinflammatory-based diseases with implications at both peripheral and central levels. Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) is well-documented for its health-promoting attributes, though its fruit (OFIF) remains relatively understudied. Not only poses Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) cardiometabolic risks but also contributes significantly to cognitive impairment, especially in crucial brain areas such as hippocampus and hypothalamus. METHODS Following 8 weeks of HFD to induce MetS, rats received OFIF oral supplementation for 4 weeks to evaluate cognitive and affective modifications using behavioural paradigms, i.e. open field, burrowing, white-dark box, novelty-suppressed feeding, and object recognition tests. Our investigation extended to biochemical evaluations of lipid homeostasis, central and peripheral oxidative stress and neurotrophic pathways, correlating these measures together with circulating leptin levels. RESULTS Our data revealed that OFIF modulation of leptin positively correlates with systemic and brain oxidative stress, with markers of increased anxiety-like behaviour and impaired lipid homeostasis. On the other hand, leptin levels reduced by OFIF are associated with improved antioxidant barriers, declarative memory and neurotrophic signalling. DISCUSSION This study underscores OFIF neuroactive potential in the context of MetS-associated cognitive impairment, offering insights into its mechanisms and implications for future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danila Di Majo
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy; Post-Graduate School of Nutrition and Food Science, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Nicolò Ricciardi
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Liberto
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Mario Allegra
- Post-Graduate School of Nutrition and Food Science, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy; Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Palermo 90128, Italy
| | - Monica Frinchi
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Giulia Urone
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Miriana Scordino
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Alessandro Massaro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Palermo 90128, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Mudò
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ferraro
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy; Post-Graduate School of Nutrition and Food Science, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Pierangelo Sardo
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy; Post-Graduate School of Nutrition and Food Science, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giglia
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy; Post-Graduate School of Nutrition and Food Science, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy.
| | - Giuditta Gambino
- Department of Biomedicine Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, Section of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy; Post-Graduate School of Nutrition and Food Science, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
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Gómez-García I, Fernández-Quintela A, González M, Gómez-Zorita S, Muguerza B, Trepiana J, Portillo MP. Usefulness of Opuntia spp. on the Management of Obesity and Its Metabolic Co-Morbidities. Nutrients 2024; 16:1282. [PMID: 38732528 PMCID: PMC11085070 DOI: 10.3390/nu16091282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The plants of the Opuntia genus mainly grow in arid and semi-arid climates. Although the highest variety of wild species is found in Mexico, Opuntia spp. is widely distributed throughout the world. Extracts of these cacti have been described as important sources of bioactive substances that can have beneficial properties for the prevention and treatment of certain metabolic disorders. The objective of this review is to summarise the presently available knowledge regarding Opuntia ficus-indica (nopal or prickly pear), and some other species (O. streptacantha and O. robusta) on obesity and several metabolic complications. Current data show that Opuntia ficus-indica products used in preclinical studies have a significant capacity to prevent, at least partially, obesity and certain derived co-morbidities. On this subject, the potential beneficial effects of Opuntia are related to a reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation markers. Nevertheless, clinical studies have evidenced that the effects are highly contingent upon the experimental design. Moreover, the bioactive compound composition of nopal extracts has not been reported. As a result, there is a lack of information to elucidate the mechanisms of action responsible for the observed effects. Accordingly, further studies are needed to demonstrate whether Opuntia products can represent an effective tool to prevent and/or manage body weight and some metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iker Gómez-García
- Nutrition and Obesity Group, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and Lucio Lascaray Research Institute, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (I.G.-G.); (A.F.-Q.); (S.G.-Z.); (M.P.P.)
| | - Alfredo Fernández-Quintela
- Nutrition and Obesity Group, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and Lucio Lascaray Research Institute, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (I.G.-G.); (A.F.-Q.); (S.G.-Z.); (M.P.P.)
- Bioaraba Health Research Institute, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcela González
- Nutrition and Food Science Department, Faculty of Biochemistry and Biological Sciences, National University of Litoral and National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Santa Fe 3000, Argentina;
| | - Saioa Gómez-Zorita
- Nutrition and Obesity Group, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and Lucio Lascaray Research Institute, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (I.G.-G.); (A.F.-Q.); (S.G.-Z.); (M.P.P.)
- Bioaraba Health Research Institute, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña Muguerza
- Nutrigenomics Research Group, Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnología, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43007 Tarragona, Spain;
| | - Jenifer Trepiana
- Nutrition and Obesity Group, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and Lucio Lascaray Research Institute, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (I.G.-G.); (A.F.-Q.); (S.G.-Z.); (M.P.P.)
- Bioaraba Health Research Institute, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - María P. Portillo
- Nutrition and Obesity Group, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and Lucio Lascaray Research Institute, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (I.G.-G.); (A.F.-Q.); (S.G.-Z.); (M.P.P.)
- Bioaraba Health Research Institute, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Martins M, Ribeiro MH, Almeida CMM. Physicochemical, Nutritional, and Medicinal Properties of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. and Its Main Agro-Industrial Use: A Review. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:1512. [PMID: 37050137 PMCID: PMC10096643 DOI: 10.3390/plants12071512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The cactus, Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. (OFI) belongs to the Cactaceae family, which contains about 130 genera and nearly 1600 species. This review aims to evaluate this plant from several perspectives, namely, botanic, physicochemical, nutritional, and medicinal properties, as well as agro-industrial use. The botanical aspects and morphological characteristics of OFI enable genetic variability, ecological adaptation, and broad geographic distribution. Due to its physicochemical and nutritional composition, it has several medicinal properties appropriate (or suitable) for several industries, such as pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics. Its fruit, the prickly pear (PP), has potential agro-industrial expansion through the application of different conservation and transformation methods, making it possible to obtain a variety of products. The PP is a source of several nutrients and is an effective system to produce varied foods, which have several advantages from a nutritional, sensory, economic, and shelf-life point of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Martins
- Laboratory of Bromatology and Water Quality, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 2, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Maria H. Ribeiro
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Cristina M. M. Almeida
- Laboratory of Bromatology and Water Quality, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 2, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal;
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal;
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Rodrigues C, de Paula CD, Lahbouki S, Meddich A, Outzourhit A, Rashad M, Pari L, Coelhoso I, Fernando AL, Souza VGL. Opuntia spp.: An Overview of the Bioactive Profile and Food Applications of This Versatile Crop Adapted to Arid Lands. Foods 2023; 12:foods12071465. [PMID: 37048286 PMCID: PMC10094368 DOI: 10.3390/foods12071465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Opuntia spp. are crops well adapted to adverse environments and have great economic potential. Their constituents, including fruits, cladodes, and flowers, have a high nutritional value and are rich in value-added compounds. Cladodes have an appreciable content in dietary fiber, as well as bioactive compounds such as kaempferol, quercetin, and isorhamnetin. Fruits are a major source of bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids and vitamin C. The seeds are mainly composed of unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. The flowers are also rich in phenolic compounds. Therefore, in addition to their traditional uses, the different plant fractions can be processed to meet multiple applications in the food industry. Several bakery products have been developed with the incorporation of cladode flour. Pectin and mucilage obtained from cladodes can act as edible films and coatings. Fruits, fruit extracts, and fruit by-products have been mixed into food products, increasing their antioxidant capacity and extending their shelf life. Betalains, obtained from fruits, can be used as food colorants and demonstrate promising applications as a sensor in food packaging. This work reviews the most valuable components of the different fractions of this plant and emphasizes its most recent food applications, demonstrating its outstanding value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Rodrigues
- MEtRICs/CubicB, Departamento de Química, NOVA School of Science and Technology, FCT NOVA, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Camila Damásio de Paula
- MEtRICs/CubicB, Departamento de Química, NOVA School of Science and Technology, FCT NOVA, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Soufiane Lahbouki
- MEtRICs/CubicB, Departamento de Química, NOVA School of Science and Technology, FCT NOVA, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Center of Agrobiotechnology and Bioengineering, Research Unit Labelled CNRST (Centre AgroBiotech-URL-CNRST-05), “Physiology of Abiotic Stresses” Team, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
- Laboratory of Agro-Food, Biotechnologies and Valorization of Plant Bioresources (AGROBIOVAL), Department of Biology, Faculty of Science Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
- Laboratory of Nanomaterials for Energy and Environment Physics Department, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
| | - Abdelilah Meddich
- Center of Agrobiotechnology and Bioengineering, Research Unit Labelled CNRST (Centre AgroBiotech-URL-CNRST-05), “Physiology of Abiotic Stresses” Team, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
- Laboratory of Agro-Food, Biotechnologies and Valorization of Plant Bioresources (AGROBIOVAL), Department of Biology, Faculty of Science Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
| | - Abdelkader Outzourhit
- Laboratory of Nanomaterials for Energy and Environment Physics Department, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Rashad
- Land and Water Technologies Department, Arid Lands Cultivation Research Institute, City of Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab City 21934, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Luigi Pari
- CREA Research Centre for Engineering and Agro-Food Processing, Monterotondo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Isabel Coelhoso
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química, NOVA School of Science and Technology, FCT NOVA, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Ana Luísa Fernando
- MEtRICs/CubicB, Departamento de Química, NOVA School of Science and Technology, FCT NOVA, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Victor G. L. Souza
- MEtRICs/CubicB, Departamento de Química, NOVA School of Science and Technology, FCT NOVA, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- INL, International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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Abedelmalek S, Aloui K, Boussetta N, Alahmadi B, Zouch M, Chtourou H, Souissi N. Does Opuntia ficus-indica Juice Supplementation Improve Biochemical and Cardiovascular Response to a 6-Minute Walk Test in Type 2 Diabetic Patients? MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:1561. [PMID: 36363518 PMCID: PMC9696711 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58111561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Opuntia ficus-indica juice (OFIJ) on performance and biochemical and physiological responses to a 6 min walking test (6MWT) in diabetic patients. Materials and Methods: Twenty diabetic patients performed a 6MWT at 07:00 h. During each test session, they were asked to drink 70 mL/day of natural OFIJ or placebo (PLA) for 4 days. Results: the results showed that cardiovascular parameters increased significantly after the 6MWT under both conditions. While, cortisol, HbA1c, cholesterol total (CT), triglycerides (TG), as well as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were not modified between without and with supplementation. Likewise, no significant variation in performance was observed for PLA and OFIJ (p > 0.05). The cardiovascular parameters (heart rate max (HRmax), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and systolic blood pressure (SBP)), lipid profile (CT, TG, LDL, and high-density lipoprotein HDL), hormonal parameters (insulin and glucagon), HbA1c and lactate ([La]) did not present any significant modification either between PLA or OFIJ (p > 0.05). Muscle-damage markers (creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)], cortisol, and liver parameters (i.e., oxidative stress marker, γGT, and total bilirubin) as well as glucose (GLC) were affected by supplementation (p < 0.05) before and after the 6MWT, but this change was significant only for OFIJ (p < 0.05). Conclusion: OFIJ had an antioxidant capacity, improved performance of the 6MWT, and reduced muscle-damage markers and glucose level in type 2 diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Abedelmalek
- Laboratory of Physiology and Functional Exploration, Faculty of Medicine, Sousse 4002, Tunisia
- Department of Sport Science and Physical Activity, College of Education, University of Ha’il, Hail 55255, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khouloud Aloui
- Physical Activity, Sport, and Health, UR18JS01, National Observatory of Sport, Tunis 1003, Tunisia
| | - Nesrine Boussetta
- Physical Activity, Sport, and Health, UR18JS01, National Observatory of Sport, Tunis 1003, Tunisia
| | - Bayan Alahmadi
- Department of Sport Science and Physical Activity, College of Education, University of Ha’il, Hail 55255, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Zouch
- Laboratory of Physiology and Functional Exploration, Faculty of Medicine, Sousse 4002, Tunisia
- Department of Sport Science and Physical Activity, College of Education, University of Ha’il, Hail 55255, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamdi Chtourou
- Physical Activity, Sport, and Health, UR18JS01, National Observatory of Sport, Tunis 1003, Tunisia
- High Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax 3000, Tunisia
| | - Nizar Souissi
- Physical Activity, Sport, and Health, UR18JS01, National Observatory of Sport, Tunis 1003, Tunisia
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Daniloski D, D'Cunha NM, Speer H, McKune AJ, Alexopoulos N, Panagiotakos DB, Petkoska AT, Naumovski N. Recent developments on Opuntia spp., their bioactive composition, nutritional values, and health effects. FOOD BIOSCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2022.101665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Gouws CA, McKune A, Tee N, Somerset S, Mortazavi R. Prickly pear juice consumption after fat intake affects postprandial heart rate variability but not traditional risk factors of cardiovascular disease in healthy men. Nutrition 2022; 96:111555. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2021.111555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Kashif RR, D’Cunha NM, Mellor DD, Alexopoulos NI, Sergi D, Naumovski N. Prickly Pear Cacti (Opuntia spp.) Cladodes as a Functional Ingredient for Hyperglycemia Management: A Brief Narrative Review. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58020300. [PMID: 35208623 PMCID: PMC8874358 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58020300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The worldwide prevalence of obesity is increasing along with its comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). From a pathophysiological perspective, T2DM arises as a consequence of insulin resistance and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, which together induce chronic hyperglycemia. The pharmacological treatment of T2DM specifically focuses on its management, rather than remission, with a lack of pharmacological agents to prevent the onset of the disease. Considering the role of unhealthy dietary patterns on the development of T2DM, identifying novel food ingredients and bioactive substances may provide new avenues by which to address the T2DM epidemic. In this brief review, we have summarized the latest findings on the consumption of the prickly pear (PP; Opuntia spp.) cladode as a potential nutritional tool for the management of hyperglycemia. The consumption of prickly pear cladodes was reported to exert hypoglycemic effects, making it a potential cost-effective nutritional intervention for the management of T2DM. Several studies have demonstrated that the consumption of prickly pear cladodes and the related products reduced post-prandial glucose levels. The cladodes’ high fiber content may be implicated in improving glycemic control, by affecting glucose absorption and effectively slowing its release into the blood circulation. Given these potential hypoglycemic effects, prickly pear cladodes may represent a potential functional food ingredient to improve glycemic control and counter the negative metabolic effects of the modern Western diet. Nonetheless, in consideration of the lack of evidence on the chronic effects of the prickly pear cladode, future research aimed at evaluating its long-term effects on glycemic control is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rao Raahim Kashif
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (R.R.K.)
- Functional Foods and Nutrition Research (FFNR) Laboratory, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - Nathan M. D’Cunha
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (R.R.K.)
- Functional Foods and Nutrition Research (FFNR) Laboratory, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
| | - Duane D. Mellor
- Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK;
| | | | - Domenico Sergi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Nenad Naumovski
- Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; (R.R.K.)
- Functional Foods and Nutrition Research (FFNR) Laboratory, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Science and Education, Harokopio University, 17671 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-6206-8719
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de Albuquerque JG, Escalona-Buendía HB, de Souza Aquino J, da Silva Vasconcelos MA. Nopal beverage (Opuntia ficus-indica) as a non-traditional food: Sensory properties, expectations, experiences, and emotions of low-income and food-insecure Brazilian potential consumers. Food Res Int 2022; 152:110910. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2021.110910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Opuntia genus in Human Health: A Comprehensive Summary on Its Pharmacological, Therapeutic and Preventive Properties. Part 1. HORTICULTURAE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/horticulturae8020088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Opuntia spp. is a diverse and widely distributed genus in Africa, Asia, Australia, and America. Mexico has the largest number of wild species; mainly O. streptacantha, O. hyptiacantha, O. albicarpa, O. megacantha and O. ficus-indica. The latter being the most cultivated and domesticated species. Throughout history, plants and their phytochemicals have played an important role in health care and Opuntia spp. has shown a high nutritional, medicinal, pharmaceutical, and economic impacts. Its main bioactive compounds include pigments (carotenoids, betalains and betacyanins), vitamins, flavonoids (isorhamnetin, kaempferol, quercetin) and phenolic compounds. Together, they favor the different plant parts and are considered phytochemically important and associated with control, progression and prevention of some chronic and infectious diseases. This first review (Part 1), compiles information from published research (in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies) on its preventive effects against atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity, hepatoprotection, effects on human infertility and chemopreventive and/or antigenotoxic capacity. The aim is to provide scientific evidences of its beneficial properties and to encourage health professionals and researchers to expand studies on the pharmacological and therapeutic effects of Opuntia spp.
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Ultrasound treatment for improving the bioactive compounds and quality properties of a Brazilian nopal (Opuntia ficus-indica) beverage during shelf-life. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2021.111814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Recent Molecular Mechanisms and Beneficial Effects of Phytochemicals and Plant-Based Whole Foods in Reducing LDL-C and Preventing Cardiovascular Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10050784. [PMID: 34063371 PMCID: PMC8157003 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10050784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal lipid metabolism leads to the development of hyperlipidemia, a common cause of multiple chronic disorders, including cardiovascular disease (CVD), obesity, diabetes, and cerebrovascular disease. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) currently remains the primary target for treatment of hyperlipidemia. Despite the advancement of treatment and prevention of hyperlipidemia, medications used to manage hyperlipidemia are limited to allopathic drugs, which present certain limitations and adverse effects. Increasing evidence indicates that utilization of phytochemicals and plant-based whole foods is an alternative and promising strategy to prevent hyperlipidemia and CVD. The current review focuses on phytochemicals and their pharmacological mode of actions for the regulation of LDL-C and prevention of CVD. The important molecular mechanisms illustrated in detail in this review include elevation of reverse cholesterol transport, inhibition of intestinal cholesterol absorption, acceleration of cholesterol excretion in the liver, and reduction of cholesterol synthesis. Moreover, the beneficial effects of plant-based whole foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, dried nuts, flax seeds, whole grains, peas, beans, vegan diets, and dietary fibers in LDL-C reduction and cardiovascular health are summarized. This review concludes that phytochemicals and plant-based whole foods can reduce LDL-C levels and lower the risk for CVD.
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Feriani A, Tir M, Arafah M, Gómez-Caravaca AM, Contreras MDM, Nahdi S, Taamalli A, Allagui MS, Alwasel S, Segura-Carretero A, Harrath AH, Tlili N. Schinus terebinthifolius fruits intake ameliorates metabolic disorders, inflammation, oxidative stress, and related vascular dysfunction, in atherogenic diet-induced obese rats. Insight of their chemical characterization using HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 269:113701. [PMID: 33346028 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE Schinus terebinthifolius is traditionally used for its anti inflammatory capacity, and indicated as a cardioprotective agent, whereas, its preventive effect against atherogenic diet fed (AD) induced metabolic disorders and the underlying mechanisms has not yet been explored. AIM OF THE STUDY This study was undertaken to investigate the ameliorative role of Schinus terebinthifolius fruits extract (STFE) against cardiovascular problem, oxidative and inflammatory status related to obesity in rats fed an atherogenic diet. MATERIALS AND METHODS The metabolites profile in STFE was evaluated using HPLC-DAD-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS analysis. In Wistar rats, atherogenic diet was added for 9 weeks to induce lipid accumulation simultaneously with STFE (50 mg/kg b. w) or saline treatment. Biochemical, oxidant, and inflammatory criteria together with hepatic and arterial integrity examination were assessed. RESULTS A total of thirty three metabolites were identified using HPLC-DAD-ESI-QTOF-MS, among them masazino-flavanone was the major compound (2645.50 μg/g DW). The results indicated that STFE supplementation during 9 weeks (50 mg/kg b. w.) significantly attenuated the altered lipid profile by decreasing the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C and increasing the HDL-C content both in plasma and liver, when compared with the AD-group. The histological analysis using ORO staining revealed a decrease in the lipid droplet deposit in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes of STFE + AD group. The addition of STFE could improve the glycemic status of AD-treated rats by decreasing the glucose and insulin secretion, and ameliorating the hepatic glycogen synthesis. The harmful effects of atherogenic diet on hepatic oxidative stress indicators (MDA, PC, GSH, SOD, CAT, and GPx), biochemical markers (AST, ALT, LDH and ALP), and liver function, were found to be decreased by the addition of STFE. Moreover, the reduction of inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α), associated to alleviating of aortic oxidative stress and integrity, highlighted the positive anti-atherogenic effect of STFE. CONCLUSION Overall, the pleiotropic protective effect observed with S. terebinthifolius fruits might be related to the presence of various bioactive compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anouar Feriani
- Research Unit of Macromolecular Biochemistry and Genetics, Faculty of Sciences of Gafsa, 2112, Gafsa, Tunisia.
| | - Meriam Tir
- Laboratoire d'Ecologie, de Biologie et de Physiologie des Organismes Aquatiques, LR18ES41, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université Tunis EL Manar, 2092, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Maria Arafah
- King Saud University, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ana María Gómez-Caravaca
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Granada, Avda. Fuentenueva s/n, 18071, Granada, Spain; Research and Development of Functional Food Centre (CIDAF), PTS Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, Edificio Bioregión, 18016, Granada, Spain
| | - María Del Mar Contreras
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Granada, Avda. Fuentenueva s/n, 18071, Granada, Spain; Department of Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, Universidad de Jaén, Campus Las Lagunillas, 23071, Jaén, Spain
| | - Saber Nahdi
- King Saud University, Department of Zoology, College of Science, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Taamalli
- Laboratory of Olive Biotechnology, Center of Biotechnology of Borj-Cédria, BP, 901, 2050, Hammam-Lif, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Salah Allagui
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Sciences of Sfax, University of Sfax, P.O. Box 95, Sfax, 3052, Tunisia
| | - Saleh Alwasel
- King Saud University, Department of Zoology, College of Science, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Antonio Segura-Carretero
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Granada, Avda. Fuentenueva s/n, 18071, Granada, Spain; Research and Development of Functional Food Centre (CIDAF), PTS Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, Edificio Bioregión, 18016, Granada, Spain
| | - Abdel Halim Harrath
- King Saud University, Department of Zoology, College of Science, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nizar Tlili
- Institut Supérieur des Sciences et Technologies de l'Environnement, Université de Carthage, Tunisia.
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Abd-Elhakim YM, Al-Sagheer AA. Opuntia spp. Benefits in Chronic Diseases. OPUNTIA SPP.: CHEMISTRY, BIOACTIVITY AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS 2021:423-455. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-78444-7_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
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Giglio RV, Carruba G, Cicero AF, Banach M, Patti AM, Nikolic D, Cocciadiferro L, Zarcone M, Montalto G, Stoian AP, Banerjee Y, Rizvi AA, Toth PP, Rizzo M. Pasta Supplemented with Opuntia ficus-indica Extract Improves Metabolic Parameters and Reduces Atherogenic Small Dense Low-Density Lipoproteins in Patients with Risk Factors for the Metabolic Syndrome: A Four-Week Intervention Study. Metabolites 2020; 10:metabo10110428. [PMID: 33114614 PMCID: PMC7694062 DOI: 10.3390/metabo10110428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Food supplementation with Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) has been associated with a significant reduction in total cholesterol, body fat, hyperglycemia and blood pressure. Since OFI may also have antioxidant and anti-atherogenic properties, we hypothesized that its supplementation might reduce atherogenic lipoproteins, including small, dense low-density lipoproteins (sdLDL). Forty-nine patients (13 men and 36 women, mean age: 56 ± 5 years) with one or two criteria for the metabolic syndrome weekly consumed 500 g of pasta supplemented with 3% OFI extract (30% of insoluble polysaccharides with high antioxidant power) for 1 month. The full LDL subclass profile was assessed by gel electrophoresis (Lipoprint, Quantimetrix, Redondo Beach, CA, USA). After 1 month of pasta supplementation, waist circumference (p = 0.0297), plasma glucose (p < 0.0001), triglycerides (p = 0.0137), plasma creatinine (p = 0.0244), urea and aspartate transaminase (p < 0.0001 for each) significantly decreased. A percentage increase in larger, less atherogenic LDL-1 (p = 0.0002), with a concomitant reduction in smaller, denser LDL-2 (p < 0.0001) and LDL-3 (p = 0.0004), were found. LDL-4 and-5 decreased, although not significantly. This is the first intervention study suggesting that pasta enriched with an OFI extract may have beneficial effects on some metabolic parameters and the LDL particle sizes, reducing atherogenic sdLDL. Future studies will help to establish if these findings impact cardiovascular outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Vincenza Giglio
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (R.V.G.); (A.M.P.); (G.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Giuseppe Carruba
- Division of Research and Internationalization, ARNAS-Civico Di Cristina e Benfratelli, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (L.C.); (M.Z.)
| | - Arrigo F.G. Cicero
- Medical and Surgical Sciences Department, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, WAM University Hospital in Lodz, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland;
- Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI) in Lodz, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
| | - Angelo Maria Patti
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (R.V.G.); (A.M.P.); (G.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Dragana Nikolic
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (R.V.G.); (A.M.P.); (G.M.); (M.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-091-655-4703
| | - Letizia Cocciadiferro
- Division of Research and Internationalization, ARNAS-Civico Di Cristina e Benfratelli, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (L.C.); (M.Z.)
| | - Maurizio Zarcone
- Division of Research and Internationalization, ARNAS-Civico Di Cristina e Benfratelli, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (L.C.); (M.Z.)
| | - Giuseppe Montalto
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (R.V.G.); (A.M.P.); (G.M.); (M.R.)
| | - Anca Pantea Stoian
- Department of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Yajnavalka Banerjee
- Department of Biochemistry, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 505055 Dubai, UAE;
| | - Ali A. Rizvi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29203, USA;
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipids, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Peter P. Toth
- CGH Medical Center, Sterling, IL 61081, USA;
- School of Medicine, University of Illinois, Peoria, IL 60612, USA
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Manfredi Rizzo
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (R.V.G.); (A.M.P.); (G.M.); (M.R.)
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29203, USA;
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