Polyphenols: Major regulators of key components of DNA damage response in cancer

Microbially mediated phenolic catabolites exert differential genoprotective activities in normal and adenocarcinoma cell lines

Age-associated decline of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activity and DNA repair efficiency leads to the accumulation of DNA damage and increased risk of cancer. Understanding the mechanisms behind increased levels of damaged DNA is crucial for developing interventions to mitigate age-related cancer risk. Associated with various health benefits, (poly)phenols and their microbially mediated phenolic catabolites represent a potential means to reduce DNA damage. Four colonic-microbiota-derived phenolic catabolites were investigated for their ability to reduce H2O2-induced oxidative DNA damage and modulate the Nrf2-Antixoidant Response Element (ARE) pathway, in normal (CCD 841 CoN) and adenocarcinoma (HT29) colonocyte cell lines. Each catabolite demonstrated significant (p < .001) genoprotective activity and modulation of key genes in the Nrf2-ARE pathway. Overall, the colon-derived phenolic metabolites, when assessed at physiologically relevant concentrations, reduced DNA damage in both normal and adenocarcinoma colonic cells in response to oxidative challenge, mediated in part via upregulation of the Nrf2-ARE pathway.

Naringenin as potent anticancer phytocompound in breast carcinoma: from mechanistic approach to nanoformulations based therapeutics

The bioactive compounds present in citrus fruits are gaining broader acceptance in oncology. Numerous studies have deciphered naringenin's antioxidant and anticancer potential in human and animal studies. Naringenin (NGE) potentially suppresses cancer progression, thereby improving the health of cancer patients. The pleiotropic anticancer properties of naringenin include inhibition of the synthesis of growth factors and cytokines, inhibition of the cell cycle, and modification of several cellular signaling pathways. As an herbal remedy, naringenin has significant pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, and anti-cancer activities. The inactivation of carcinogens following treatment with pure naringenin, naringenin-loaded nanoparticles, and naringenin combined with anti-cancer agents was demonstrated by data in vitro and in vivo studies. These studies included colon cancer, lung neoplasms, breast cancer, leukemia and lymphoma, pancreatic cancer, prostate tumors, oral squamous cell carcinoma, liver cancer, brain tumors, skin cancer, cervical and ovarian cancers, bladder neoplasms, gastric cancer, and osteosarcoma. The effects of naringenin on processes related to inflammation, apoptosis, proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and invasion in breast cancer are covered in this narrative review, along with its potential to develop novel and secure anticancer medications.

Harnessing the Power of Polyphenols: A New Frontier in Disease Prevention and Therapy

There are a wide variety of phytochemicals collectively known as polyphenols. Their structural diversity results in a broad range of characteristics and biological effects. Polyphenols can be found in a variety of foods and drinks, including fruits, cereals, tea, and coffee. Studies both in vitro and in vivo, as well as clinical trials, have shown that they possess potent antioxidant activities, numerous therapeutic effects, and health advantages. Dietary polyphenols have demonstrated the potential to prevent many health problems, including obesity, atherosclerosis, high blood sugar, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and neurological diseases. In this paper, the protective effects of polyphenols and the mechanisms behind them are investigated in detail, citing the most recent available literature. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on the role of polyphenols in preventing and managing chronic diseases. The cited publications are derived from in vitro, in vivo, and human-based studies and clinical trials. A more complete understanding of these naturally occurring metabolites will pave the way for the development of novel polyphenol-rich diet and drug development programs. This, in turn, provides further evidence of their health benefits.

A Critical Appraisal of the Protective Activity of Polyphenolic Antioxidants against Iatrogenic Effects of Anticancer Chemotherapeutics

Polyphenolic compounds, encompassing flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, rutin, and cyanidin) and non-flavonoids (e.g., gallic acid, resveratrol, and curcumin), show several health-related beneficial effects, which include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antiviral, and anticarcinogenic properties, as well as the prevention of coronary heart diseases. Polyphenols have also been investigated for their counteraction against the adverse effects of common anticancer chemotherapeutics. This review evaluates the outcomes of clinical studies (and related preclinical data) over the last ten years, with a focus on the use of polyphenols in chemotherapy as auxiliary agents acting against oxidative stress toxicity induced by antitumor drugs. While further clinical studies are needed to establish adequate doses and optimal delivery systems, the improvement in polyphenols' metabolic stability and bioavailability, through the implementation of nanotechnologies that are currently being investigated, could improve therapeutic applications of their pharmaceutical or nutraceutical preparations in tumor chemotherapy.

Inhibition of Cancer Development by Natural Plant Polyphenols: Molecular Mechanisms

Malignant tumors remain one of the main sources of morbidity and mortality around the world. A chemotherapeutic approach to cancer treatment poses a multitude of challenges, primarily due to the low selectivity and genotoxicity of the majority of chemotherapeutic drugs currently used in the clinical practice, often leading to treatment-induced tumors formation. Highly selective antitumor drugs can largely resolve this issue, but their high selectivity leads to significant drawbacks due to the intrinsic tumor heterogeneity. In contrast, plant polyphenols can simultaneously affect many processes that are involved in the acquiring and maintaining of hallmark properties of malignant cells, and their toxic dose is typically much higher than the therapeutic one. In the present work we describe the mechanisms of the action of polyphenols on cancer cells, including their effects on genetic and epigenetic instability, tumor-promoting inflammation, and altered microbiota.

Polyphenols—Ensured Accessibility from Food to the Human Metabolism by Chemical and Biotechnological Treatments

Polyphenols are plant-based compounds famous for their positive impact on both human health and the quality of food products. The benefits of polyphenols are related to reducing cardiovascular diseases, cholesterol management, cancers, and neurological disorders in humans and increasing the shelf life, management of oxidation, and anti-microbial activity in food products. The bioavailability and bio-accessibility of polyphenols are of the highest importance to secure their impact on human and food health. This paper summarizes the current state-of-the-art approaches on how polyphenols can be made more accessible in food products to contribute to human health. For example, by using food processing methods including various technologies, such as chemical and biotechnological treatments. Food matrix design and simulation procedures, in combination with encapsulation of fractionated polyphenols utilizing enzymatic and fermentation methodology, may be the future technologies to tailor specific food products with the ability to ensure polyphenol release and availability in the most suitable parts of the human body (bowl, intestine, etc.). The development of such new procedures for utilizing polyphenols, combining novel methodologies with traditional food processing technologies, has the potential to contribute enormous benefits to the food industry and health sector, not only reducing food waste and food-borne illnesses but also to sustain human health.

Recent Developments in Polyphenol Applications on Human Health: A Review with Current Knowledge

Polyphenol has been used in treatment for some health disorders due to their diverse health promoting properties. These compounds can reduce the impacts of oxidation on the human body, prevent the organs and cell structure against deterioration and protect their functional integrity. The health promoting abilities are attributed to their high bioactivity imparting them high antioxidative, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral activity, as well as anticancer properties. The application of polyphenols such as flavonoids, catechin, tannins, and phenolic acids in the food industry as bio-preservative substances for foods and beverages can exert a superb activity on the inhibition of oxidative stress via different types of mechanisms. In this review, the detailed classification of polyphenolic compunds and their important bioactivity with special focus on human health are addressed. Additionally, their ability to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 could be used as alternative therapy to treat COVID patients. Inclusions of polyphenolic compounds in various foods have demonstrated their ability to extend shelf life and they positive impacts on human health (antioxidative, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anticancer). Additionally, their ability to inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 virus has been reported. Considering their natural occurrence and GRAS status they are highly recommended in food.

Polyphenol Supplementation and Antioxidant Status in Athletes: A Narrative Review

Antioxidants in sports exercise training remain a debated research topic. Plant-derived polyphenol supplements are frequently used by athletes to reduce the negative effects of exercise-induced oxidative stress, accelerate the recovery of muscular function, and enhance performance. These processes can be efficiently modulated by antioxidant supplementation. The existing literature has failed to provide unequivocal evidence that dietary polyphenols should be promoted specifically among athletes. This narrative review summarizes the current knowledge regarding polyphenols' bioavailability, their role in exercise-induced oxidative stress, antioxidant status, and supplementation strategies in athletes. Overall, we draw attention to the paucity of available evidence suggesting that most antioxidant substances are beneficial to athletes. Additional research is necessary to reveal more fully their impact on exercise-induced oxidative stress and athletes' antioxidant status, as well as optimal dosing methods.

Interactions of melatonin with various signaling pathways: implications for cancer therapy

Melatonin is a neuro-hormone with conserved roles in evolution. Initially synthetized as an antioxidant molecule, it has gained prominence as a key molecule in the regulation of the circadian rhythm. Melatonin exerts its effect by binding to cytoplasmic and intra-nuclear receptors, and is able to regulate the expression of key mediators of different signaling pathways. This ability has led scholars to investigate the role of melatonin in reversing the process of carcinogenesis, a process in which many signaling pathways are involved, and regulating these pathways may be of clinical significance. In this review, the role of melatonin in regulating multiple signaling pathways with important roles in cancer progression is discussed, and evidence regarding the beneficence of targeting malignancies with this approach is presented.

Recent Advances in Natural Polyphenol Research

Polyphenols are secondary metabolites produced by plants, which contribute to the plant's defense against abiotic stress conditions (e.g., UV radiation and precipitation), the aggression of herbivores, and plant pathogens. Epidemiological studies suggest that long-term consumption of plant polyphenols protects against cardiovascular disease, cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. Their structural diversity has fascinated and confronted analytical chemists on how to carry out unambiguous identification, exhaustive recovery from plants and organic waste, and define their nutritional and biological potential. The food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries employ polyphenols from fruits and vegetables to produce additives, additional foods, and supplements. In some cases, nanocarriers have been used to protect polyphenols during food processing, to solve the issues related to low water solubility, to transport them to the site of action, and improve their bioavailability. This review summarizes the structure-bioactivity relationships, processing parameters that impact polyphenol stability and bioavailability, the research progress in nanocarrier delivery, and the most innovative methodologies for the exhaustive recovery of polyphenols from plant and agri-waste materials.

Polyphenols as Potent Epigenetics Agents for Cancer

Human diseases such as cancer can be caused by aberrant epigenetic regulation. Polyphenols play a major role in mammalian epigenome regulation through mechanisms and proteins that remodel chromatin. In fruits, seeds, and vegetables, as well as food supplements, polyphenols are found. Compounds such as these ones are powerful anticancer agents and antioxidants. Gallic acid, kaempferol, curcumin, quercetin, and resveratrol, among others, have potent anti-tumor effects by helping reverse epigenetic changes associated with oncogene activation and tumor suppressor gene inactivation. The role dietary polyphenols plays in restoring epigenetic alterations in cancer cells with a particular focus on DNA methylation and histone modifications was summarized. We also discussed how these natural compounds modulate gene expression at the epigenetic level and described their molecular targets in cancer. It highlights the potential of polyphenols as an alternative therapeutic approach in cancer since they modulate epigenetic activity.

Effects of bioactive substances isolated from Siberian medicinal plants on the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans

Medicinal plants are sources of natural antioxidants. Acting as reducing agents, these substances protect the human body against oxidative stress and slow down the aging process. We aimed to study the effects of bioactive substances isolated from medicinal plants on the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans L. used as a model organism. High-performance liquid chromatography was applied to isolate bioactive substances from the extracts of callus, suspension, and root cultures of meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria L.), ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba L.), Baikal skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis L.), red clover (Trifolium pretense L.), alfalfa (Medicágo sativa L.), and thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.). Their effect on the lifespan of C. elegans nematodes was determined by counting live nematodes treated with their concentrations of 10, 50, 100, and 200 µmol/L after 61 days of the experiment. The results were recorded using IR spectrometry. The isolated bioactive substances were at least 95% pure. We found that the studied concentrations of trans-cinnamic acid, baicalin, rutin, ursolic acid, and magniferin did not significantly increase the lifespan of the nematodes. Naringenin increased their lifespan by an average of 27.3% during days 8–26. Chlorogenic acid at a concentration of 100 µmol/L increased the lifespan of C. elegans by 27.7%. Ginkgo-based kaempferol and quercetin, as well as red clover-based biochanin A at the concentrations of 200, 10, and 100 µmol/L, respectively, increased the lifespan of the nematodes by 30.6, 41.9, and 45.2%, respectively. The bioactive substances produced from callus, root, and suspension cultures of the above medicinal plants had a positive effect on the lifespan of C. elegans nematodes. This confirms their geroprotective properties and allows them to be used as anti-aging agents.

Melatonin as an oncostatic agent: Review of the modulation of tumor microenvironment and overcoming multidrug resistance

Multi drug resistance (MDR) generally limits the efficacy of chemotherapy in cancer patients and can be categorized into primary or acquired resistance. Melatonin (MLT), a lipophilic hormone released from pineal gland, is a molecule with oncostatic effects. Here, we will briefly review the contribution of different microenvironmental components including fibroblasts, immune and inflammatory cells, stem cells and vascular endothelial cells in tumor initiation, progression and development. Then, the mechanisms by which MLT can potentially affect these elements and regulate drug resistance will be presented. Finally, we will explain how different studies have used novel strategies incorporating MLT to suppress cancer resistance against therapeutics.

Growth Performance, Histological Changes and Functional Tests of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Supplemented with Tribulus Terrestris Powder

The current experiment aimed to investigate the effects of TT powder on performance parameters and functional tests, as well as on morphological and histological changes in the liver, kidney and ileum in broiler chickens. Commercial broilers (total = 168 females) were used, equally divided into three dietary treatments (C = 0.0, T1 = 0.75, and T2 = 1.5 g/kg diet). The growth performance (1−35 days of age), absolute and relative weight, liver and kidney functional tests, intestinal morphology (14 and 35 days of age), and histomorphology of the ileum (35 days of age) were evaluated. At 35 days of age, histopathological changes in the ileum, liver, and kidney were also examined. The results showed that the growth performance and absolute and relative weights of the liver and kidney had no negative effects when dietary supplementation with TT powder was given at 0.75 g/kg diet (T1), whereas a decrease was observed at T2 (p < 0.05). Liver and kidney functional tests showed no significant effects in all feed treatments (14 days), while T1 showed lower (p < 0.05) ALT and AST levels (35 days). T1 exhibited higher weights, lengths, and weight-to-length ratios of the small intestine, and relative lengths of the duodenum (p < 0.05). Histomorphometric measurements of the ileum were higher (p < 0.05) in chickens fed the 0.75 g TT/kg diet, and except for in the goblet cell count and epithelial thickness, there were no differences between treatments (p > 0.05). In T1, hepatocytes were more normal but hepatic sinusoids were dilated, whereas in T2, lymphocytes had infiltrated around the central vein and lining endothelial cells had been lost. The kidney was improved in T1 and T2 compared with the control group. Ileal villi were shorter in T2, and some villi fused with enterocyte necrosis and inflammatory cells accumulated in the lumen. We concluded that TT powder (0.75 g/kg feed) has a safe effect and is healthy for broilers.

Dehydration and Rehydration Kinetics Modeling in the Phytochemical, Aroma, and Antioxidant Capacity of Tree Tomato Fruit Dried with Microwaves and Freeze Driers: A Comparative Study

In the present study, we investigated and compared the effect of microwaves and freeze-drying methods on the dehydration and rehydration kinetics in the phenolic, anthocyanin, aroma profiles, and antioxidant properties of tree tomato fruit (Solanum betaceum). The tree tomatoes were dried using microwaves at 350 W, 500 W, and 650 W, and then freeze-dried. The obtained drying curves were processed to find the most suitable mathematical modeling among the different moisture ratio expressions. Total phenolics, total anthocyanins, total flavonoids total carotenoids, vitamin C, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) were tested. Using High performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), phenolic and anthocyanin compound profiles were identified. The aroma profile was analyzed using gas chromatography-MS. The Midilli model, among others, precisely describes the dehydration methodology of all used drying methods with the coefficient of determination R2 = 0.99. On the other hand, the Weibull model precisely describes the rehydration process of the used drying methods (R2 = 0.99). Physical changes (color, shrinkage) were also studied. The freeze-dried tree tomatoes had a high number of phenolic compounds with 3.94 ± 0.26 mg GAE/g and total carotenoid compounds with 0.48 ± 0.04 µg/g. Epicathechin was the most abundant compound among the tested phenolics, followed by Cathechin. The Pelargonidin-3-glucoside was the most abundant anthocyanin whereas in freeze-dried tree tomatoes, 1.22 ± 0.01 mg/g. Fifty-four aroma compounds were detected and quantified. Among others, Eucalyptol was one of the most abundant aroma compounds analyzed in dried tree tomato fruit. Freeze-dried tree tomatoes retained most of the antioxidant and flavor compounds analyzed.

Genoprotective, antimutagenic, and antioxidant effect of methanolic leaf extract of Rhamnus alaternus L. from the Bissa mountains in Algeria

Rhamnus alaternus L. is a Rhamnaceae shrub and a popular traditional medicine in Algeria. The present research objective was to investigate the antioxidant, genotoxic, and antigenotoxic properties of R. alaternus methanolic leaf extract. Antiradical scavenging activity was tested by α, α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging and β-carotene bleaching method. DNA damage and repair were measured by the Allium cepa test with sodium azide as a mutagenic agent. Mitotic index and chromosomal aberrations were calculated by microscopy of meristem roots stained with 2% carmine acetic. The methanolic extract of R. alaternus leaves inhibited the free radical DPPH (IC50 = 0.74 ± 0.3 mg/mL) and prevented the oxidation of β-carotene (50.71 ± 4.17%). The root phenotyping showed that sodium azide changed their color and shape, decreased their stiffness, and significantly reduced their length. The roots treated with both R. alaternus leaf extract and sodium azide demonstrated a better root growth. The roots treated with the methanolic extract were much longer than the control roots (P < 0.001). The microscopy images of root meristem treated with the sodium azide mitodepressant agent showed significant chromosomal aberrations, which indicated a disruption of the cell cycle. The R. alaternus leaf extract appeared to have a beneficial effect on cytotoxicity. The antioxidant properties of R. alaternus L. makes this plant an excellent genoportector.

Chemical aspects of polyphenol-protein interactions and their antibacterial activity

The hunt for novel antibiotics has become a global public health imperative due to the rise in multidrug-resistant microorganisms, untreatable infection cases, overuse, and inefficacy of modern antibiotics. Polyphenols are getting much attention in research due to their multiple biological effects; their use as antimicrobial agents is attributed to their activity and that microbes have a hard time developing resistance to these natural compounds. Polyphenols are secondary metabolites produced in higher plants. They are known to possess various functional properties in the human body. Polyphenols also exhibit antibacterial activities against foodborne pathogens. Their antibacterial mechanism is based on inhibiting bacterial biofilm formation or inactivating enzymes. This review focused on polyphenol-protein interactions and the creation of this complex as a possible antibacterial agent. Also, different phenolic interactions on bacterial proteins, efflux pump, cell membrane, bacterial adhesion, toxins, and other bacterial proteins will be explored; these interactions can work in a synergic combination with antibiotics or act alone to assure bacterial inhibition. Additionally, our review will focus on polyphenol-protein interaction as a possible strategy to eradicate bacteria because polyphenols have shown a robust enzyme-inhibitory characteristic and a high tendency to complex with proteins, a response that neutralizes any bactericidal potential.

Food-Derived Bioactive Molecules from Mediterranean Diet: Nanotechnological Approaches and Waste Valorization as Strategies to Improve Human Wellness

The beneficial effects of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), the most widely followed healthy diet in the world, are principally due to the presence in the foods of secondary metabolites, mainly polyphenols, whose healthy characteristics are widely recognized. However, one of the biggest problems associated with the consumption of polyphenols as nutraceutical adjuvant concerns their bioavailability. During the last decades, different nanotechnological approaches have been developed to enhance polyphenol bioavailability, avoiding the metabolic modifications that lead to low absorption, and improving their retention time inside the organisms. This review focuses on the most recent findings regarding the encapsulation and delivery of the bioactive molecules present in the foods daily consumed in the MedDiet such as olive oil, wine, nuts, spice, and herbs. In addition, the possibility of recovering the polyphenols from food waste was also explored, taking into account the increased market demand of functional foods and the necessity to obtain valuable biomolecules at low cost and in high quantity. This circular economy strategy, therefore, represents an excellent approach to respond to both the growing demand of consumers for the maintenance of human wellness and the economic and ecological exigencies of our society.

Mechanisms of acrolein induces toxicity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells: Oxidative stress, DNA damage response, and apoptosis

Acrolein is a ubiquitous environmental pollutant that produced by the incomplete combustion of cigarette smoke, forest fires, petroleum fuels, plastic materials, and cooking fumes. Inhalation is a common form of people exposure to acrolein, increasing evidence demonstrates that acrolein impairs the cardiovascular system by targeting vascular endothelial cells. However, the molecular mechanism of the cytotoxicity of acrolein exposure on vascular endothelial cells remains unclear. This work focused on the toxicity of acrolein on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The molecular mechanism was studied based on oxidative stress, DNA damage response (DDR), and mitochondrial apoptosis pathways. After HUVECs were treated with 12.5, 25, and 50 μM acrolein for 24 h, cell viability, cell colony formation, mitochondrial membrane potential, and adenosine triphosphate content significantly reduced, and acrolein increased intracellular reactive oxygen species, apoptosis rate, and 8-hydroxy-2 deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) level. Furthermore, p38MAPK and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling pathways were activated in response to oxidative stress. Moreover, acrolein induced G0/G1phase arrest, promoted the expression of γ-H2AX, activated the DDR signaling pathway (Ataxia-Telangiectasia-Mutated [ATM] and Rad-3-related/Chk1 and ATM/Chk2), and triggered the consequent cell cycle checkpoints. Finally, the protein expression of Bax/Bcl-2 and cleaved Caspase-3 was up-regulated, suggesting apoptosis was induced by triggering the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. All these results indicated that acrolein induced HUVECs cytotoxicity by regulating oxidative stress, DNA damage, and apoptosis. This study provides a novel perspective on the mechanism of acrolein-induced cardiovascular toxicity, it will be helpful for the prevention of acrolein-induced cardiovascular disease.

Biomedical applications of tannic acid

Tannic Acid (TA) is a naturally occurring antioxidant polyphenol that has gained popularity over the past decade in the field of biomedical research for its unique biochemical properties. Tannic acid, typically extracted from oak tree galls, has been used in many important historical applications. TA is a key component in vegetable tanning of leather, iron gall ink, red wines, and as a traditional medicine to treat a variety of maladies. The basis of TA utility is derived from its many hydroxyl groups and its affinity for forming hydrogen bonds with proteins and other biomolecules. Today, the study of TA has led to the development of many new pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. TA has been shown to reduce inflammation as an antioxidant, act as an antibiotic in common pathogenic bacterium, and induce apoptosis in several cancer types. TA has also displayed antiviral and antifungal activity. At certain concentrations, TA can be used to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as hemorrhoids and diarrhea, severe burns, and protect against neurodegenerative diseases. TA has also been utilized in biomaterials research as a natural crosslinking agent to improve mechanical properties of natural and synthetic hydrogels and polymers, while also imparting anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anticancer activity to the materials. TA has also been used to develop thin film coatings and nanoparticles for drug delivery. In all, TA is fascinating molecule with a wide variety of potential uses in pharmaceuticals, biomaterials applications, and drug delivery strategies.

Potential mechanisms of methylglyoxal-induced human embryonic kidney cells damage: Regulation of oxidative stress, DNA damage, and apoptosis

Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a reactive carbonyl species that can cause cellular damage and is closely related to kidney disease, especially diabetic nephropathy. The toxic effect of MGO (0.5, 1, and 2 mM) on human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells and its underlying mechanism were explored in this study. Cell viability, apoptosis and the signaling pathways were measured with MTT, fluorescent staining and western blot experiments, the results showed that MGO could induce oxidative stress and cell inflammation, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased, and p38MAPK, JNK and NF-κB signaling pathways were activated. Meanwhile, MGO also induced DNA damage. The expression of DNA oxidative damage marker 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) increased, the expression of double-strand break marker γH2AX increased significantly, and ATM/Chk2/p53 DNA damage response signaling pathway was activated. Furthermore, the expression of the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) also increased. Finally, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) decreased, fluorescence intensity of Hoechst33258 increased, and the protein expression ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 increased significantly after the treatment of MGO. These results demonstrated that MGO might induce HEK293 cells damage by regulating oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and cell apoptosis, which revealed the specific mechanism of MGO-induced damage to HEK293 cells.

Exploring the molecular mechanisms of the inhibition of acrolein-induced BEAS-2B cytotoxicity by luteolin using network pharmacology and cell biology technology

Acrolein is a highly reactive unsaturated hazardous air pollutant, which is extremely irritating to the respiratory tract. Luteolin, an active flavonoid compound, possesses multiple biological activities. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mechanism of the inhibition of acrolein-induced human bronchial epithelial (BEAS-2B) cells cytotoxicity by luteolin using network pharmacology and cell biology technology. Firstly, network pharmacology results indicated that oxidative stress processes might play an important role in luteolin inhibiting lung injury. Next, it was verified at the cellular level. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation increased, glutathione (GSH) level decreased after exposure to acrolein. MAPK signaling pathways were activated, which activated downstream IκBα/NF-κB signaling pathways. Meanwhile, acrolein caused oxidative DNA damage and double-strand breaks, induced DNA damage response (DDR) and apoptosis. These adverse effects were significantly reversed by luteolin, which inhibited the activation of MAPK/IκBα/NF-κB and DDR pathways, and reduced the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2. Moreover, luteolin also had a similar effect to antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) in the regulation of signaling transduction mechanisms, which indicated that the regulation of oxidative stress played an important role in the process. These results provide an experimental basis for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of the inhibition of acrolein-induced BEAS-2B cytotoxicity with luteolin.

Toxicity mechanism of acrolein on DNA damage and apoptosis in BEAS-2B cells: Insights from cell biology and molecular docking analyses

Acrolein is a hazardous air pollutant for humans and is responsible for many pulmonary diseases, but the underlying mechanisms have not been completely elucidated. This work is focused on the genotoxicity effects of human bronchial epithelial (BEAS-2B) cells induced by acrolein (20, 40, 80 μM). The molecular mechanism was investigated base on DNA damage and mitochondrial apoptosis pathways. The results showed that after exposure to acrolein, the cell viability, glutathione (GSH) of BEAS-2B cells were reduced. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level significantly increased, accompanied by increased levels of DNA damage-related indicators 8-hydroxy-2 deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), DNA content of comet tail (Tail DNA%), olive tail moment (OTM), and nucleus morphology. Cell arrested at the G2/M phase. Then, the DNA damage response (DDR) signaling pathway (Ataxia-telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) and Rad-3-related (ATR)/Chk1 and ATM/Chk2) and the consequent cell cycle checkpoints were activated. The expression of γ-H2AX was significantly increased, indicating that acrolein induced DNA double-strand breaks. Molecular docking assay showed that acrolein bound to DNA in a spontaneous process. Moreover, mitochondrial apoptosis pathway involved in apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content of BEAS-2B cells were significantly reduced, and the apoptosis rate was significantly increased. The protein expression of Bax/Bcl-2 and Cleaved Caspase-3 were increased, and JNK signaling pathway was activated. All the results indicated that acrolein induced DNA damage, activated DDR and mitochondrial apoptosis pathways, which might be the pivotal factors to mediate cytotoxicity in BEAS-2B cells.

Raw and Sous-Vide-Cooked Red Cardoon Stalks (Cynara cardunculus L. var. altilis DC): (Poly)phenol Bioaccessibility, Anti-inflammatory Activity in the Gastrointestinal Tract, and Prebiotic Activity

The in vitro anti-inflammatory and prebiotic activity and the content and profile of bioaccessible (poly)phenols and catabolites of raw and sous-vide-cooked red cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L. var. altilis DC) were investigated during gastrointestinal (GI) digestion. Raw cardoon after in vitro GI digestion had 0.7% bioaccessible (poly)phenols, which protected against lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation by counteracting IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 secretions in differentiated Caco-2 cells. Contrarily, GI-digested sous vide cardoon showed higher (poly)phenol bioaccessibility (59.8%) and exerted proinflammatory effects in Caco-2 cells. (Poly)phenols were highly metabolized during the first 8 h of in vitro fermentation, and nine catabolites were produced during 48 h of fermentation. Colonic-fermented raw and sous-vide-cooked cardoon did not show anti-inflammatory activity in HT-29 cells but presented potential prebiotic activity, comparable to the commercial prebiotic FOS, by stimulating health-promoting bacteria such as Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillus/Enterococcus spp. and by increasing the production of total SCFAs, especially acetate.

Effects of radiation and role of plants in radioprotection: A critical review

Radiation can be lethal at high doses, whereas controlled doses are useful in medical applications. Other applications include power generation, agriculture sterilization, nuclear weapons, and archeology. Radiation damages genetic material, which is reflected in genotoxicity and can cause hereditary damage. In the medical field, it is essential to avoid the harmful effects of radiation. Radiation countermeasures and the need for radioprotective agents have been explored in recent years. Considering plants that evolve in radiative conditions, their ability to protect organisms against radiation has been studied and demonstrated. Crude extracts, fractioned extracts, isolated phytocompounds, and plant polysaccharides from various plants have been used in radioprotection studies, and their efficiency has been proven in various in vitro and in vivo experimental models. It is important to identify the mechanism of action to develop a potent plant-based radioprotective agent. To identify this protective mechanism, it is necessary to understand the damage caused by radiation in biological systems. This review intends to discuss the effects of ionizing radiation on biological systems and evaluate plant-based radioprotectants that have tested thus far as well as their mechanism of action in protecting against the toxic effects of radiation. From the review, the mechanism of radioprotection exhibited by the plant-based products could be understood. Meanwhile, we strongly suggest that the potential products identified so far should undergo clinical trials for critically evaluating their effects and for developing an ideal and compatible radioprotectant with no side-effects.

The Review of Anti-aging Mechanism of Polyphenols on Caenorhabditis elegans

Micronutrients extracted from natural plants or made by biological synthesis are widely used in anti-aging research and applications. Among more than 30 effective anti-aging substances, employing polyphenol organic compounds for modification or delaying of the aging process attracts great interest because of their distinct contribution in the prevention of degenerative diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. There is a profound potential for polyphenol extracts in the research of aging and the related diseases of the elderly. Previous studies have mainly focused on the properties of polyphenols implicated in free radical scavenging; however, the anti-oxidant effect cannot fully elaborate its biological functions, such as neuroprotection, Aβ protein production, ion channel coupling, and signal transduction pathways. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has been considered as an ideal model organism for exploring the mechanism of anti-aging research and is broadly utilized in screening for natural bioactive substances. In this review, we have described the molecular mechanisms and pathways responsible for the slowdown of aging processes exerted by polyphenols. We also have discussed the possible mechanisms for their anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties in C. elegans from the perspective of different classifications of the specific polyphenols, such as flavonols, anthocyanins, flavan-3-ols, hydroxybenzoic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid, and stilbenes.

Impact of dietary polyphenols on neuroinflammation-associated disorders

Neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and associated dementia typically originate with altered protein folding and aggregation of their β structures in the neurons. This self-aggregation leads to glial activation in the brain, causing neuroinflammation and leads to neuronal death. According to statistics provided by WHO, there are around 50 million people with dementia worldwide and every year, 10 million more cases are projected to increase. Also, around 5-8 percentage of people who are aged above 60 globally has dementia or associated disorders. Over 82 million in 2030 and 152 in 2050 are expected to have dementia. Most of these patients fall into low-middle-income countries which makes it even more essential to find an affordable and effective treatment method. Polyphenols of different origin are studied for their potential role as anti-neuro-inflammatory molecules. This review would summarize recent advances in three widely researched dietary polyphenols projected as potential therapeutic agents for disorders like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, etc. They are Resveratrol, Catechins, and Tannins. The review would discuss the recent advances and challenges in using these polyphenols using specific examples as potential therapeutic agents against neuroinflammation associated disorders. An abstract of neuroinflammation-associated events and the effects by selected polyphenols.

Polyphenols: Natural compounds with promising potential in treating polycystic ovary syndrome

Polyphenols are natural compounds used by plants as a defense system against various stresses. In recent years, the importance of these polyhydroxyphenols has extensively increased due to their potent cardioprotection, anti-carcinogenic, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, various studies have reported promising results from the studies investigating their efficacy as a therapeutic strategy in various disorders such as human malignancies, cardiovascular diseases, nervous system impairments, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, aging, and inflammation-associated disorders, as well as a polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Since oxidative stress, hormonal, metabolic, and endocrine disturbances have been shown to play a crucial role in the initiation/progression of PCOS, polyphenols are suggested to be an effective treatment for this disorder. Therefore, this study aimed to discuss the therapeutic potential of multiple polyphenols in PCOS.

Exploring the Potential Mechanism of Costunolide-Induced MCF-7 Cells Apoptosis by Multi-Spectroscopy, Molecular Docking and Cell Experiments

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancer with high morbidity and mortality in women. This study aimed to explore the potential mechanism of costunolide inducing MCF-7 cells apoptosis by multi-spectroscopy, molecular docking, and cell experiments. The results manifested that costunolide interacted with calf thymus DNA (ct-DNA) in a spontaneous manner, and the minor groove as the preferential binding mode. Furthermore, costunolide inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation. Hoechst 33258 staining showed that cell apoptosis induced by costunolide might be related to DNA damage. The apoptosis mechanism relied on regulating the protein expression of Bax, Bcl-2, p53, Caspase-3 and the activation of p38MAPK and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathways. This study will provide some experimental basis and potential therapeutic strategy for breast cancer treatment.

Antiviral Mechanism of Tea Polyphenols against Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus

Neither inactivated nor attenuated vaccines can effectively prevent and control the infection and spread of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). Therefore, it is necessary to broaden new horizons and to conceive effective preventive strategies. The main components of Tea polyphenol (TPP) are catechins and their derivatives. TPP has many physiological activities and has certain antiviral and antifungal effects. However, whether TPP shows anti-PRRSV activity remains unclear. We found that TPP effectively inhibited PRRSV infection in Marc-145 cells by suppressing the stages of viral attachment, internalization, replication, and release. TPP exhibited a potent anti-PRRSV effect regardless of pre-treatment or post-treatment. In addition, we demonstrated that TPP restrained PRRSV-induced p65 entry into the nucleus to suppress the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway, which ultimately leads to the inhibition of the expression of inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, TPP limited the synthesis of viral non-structural protein 2 (nsp2), the core component of viral replication transcription complexes, which may contribute to the inhibition of viral RNA replication. TPP has the potential to develop into an effective antiviral agent for PRRSV prevention and control in the future.

In vitro and in vivo anticancer effects of syringic acid on colorectal cancer: Possible mechanistic view

This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro effects of syringic acid on human colorectal cancer cells (SW-480) and the effect of orally administered syringic acid on in vivo models of colorectal cancer induced in rats by administration of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). In vitro effects of syringic acid treatment on human colorectal cancer SW-480 cell lines were assessed by performing cell proliferation assay (MTT and Trypan Blue staining), apoptosis assays (TUNEL assay, Annexin-V/PI flowcytometry and lactate dehydrogenase release assay), measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidant enzymes and DNA damage, and evaluating protein levels of proliferative genes, and autophagy markers. In vitro anti-cancer roles of syringic acid were studied in rats with DMH-induced colorectal cancer cells. The effect of orally administered syringic acid (50 mg/kg) on tumor growth and incidence was studied in four groups (n = 6) of animals injected with DMH and treated for 15 weeks. Syringic acid treatment resulted in a significant dose-dependent inhibition of cellular proliferation, induction of apoptosis through increasing cellular ROS and DNA damage levels, as well as downregulating major proliferative genes. In vivo, treatment of rats with syringic acid demonstrated a statistically significant tumor volume and incidence reduction when compared to the control. This is the first study demonstrating an in vivo growth inhibitory effect of orally administered syringic acid on colorectal tumors in rats.

Cellular and molecular mechanisms of xenobiotics-induced premature senescence

Premature senescence, which share common features with replicative senescence such as morphology, senescence-associated galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, cell cycle regulation, and gene expression, can be triggered by the exposure of various xenobiotics including environmental pollutant, peroxides, and anticancer drugs. The exact mechanisms underlying the senescence onset and stabilization are still obscure. In this review, we summarized the possible cellular and molecular mechanisms of xenobiotics-induced premature senescence, including induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), tumor suppressors, and DNA damage; disequilibrium of calcium homeostasis; activation of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β); and blockage of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) pathway. The deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying xenobiotics-induced senescence may shed light on new therapeutic strategies for age-related pathologies and extend healthy lifespan.

Optimización del proceso de extracción asistida por ultrasonido de compuestos fenólicos de Justicia spicigera Schltdl. mediante la metodología de superficie de respuesta

El interés en el estudio de los polifenoles ha crecido de manera considerable en los últimos años debido a su alta capacidad para atrapar radicales libres asociados con diversas enfermedades. Por este motivo, el objetivo del presente trabajo fue obtener y caracterizar los compuestos fenólicos de Justicia spicigera Schltdl. mediante extracción asistida por ultrasonido. A los extractos, se les determinó el contenido fenólico total (método de Folin-Ciocalteu), actividad antioxidante (potencial antioxidante/reductor del hierro) y actividad secuestradora de radicales libres (método del radical libre 2,2-difenil-2-picrilhidrazil). La metodología de superficie de respuesta (MSR) se empleó para evaluar el efecto del disolvente (agua/etanol) y el tiempo de extracción, en el contenido de fenoles totales y las propiedades antioxidantes. El análisis de varianza (ANOVA) indicó que la concentración de agua en la mezcla del disolvente afectó de manera importante el rendimiento de los compuestos, así como la actividad antioxidante y antiradical. De acuerdo con la MSR, las condiciones óptimas para la extracción son 25% de agua en la mezcla del disolvente y un tiempo de sonicación de 16 minutos.

Combination of quercetin and exercise training attenuates depression in rats with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colorectal cancer: Possible involvement of inflammation and BDNF signalling

NEW FINDINGS

What is the central question of this study? What are the alleviative effects of the combination of exercise training and quercetin supplementation on colorectal cancer-related depression in rats with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colorectal cancer and what is the corresponding signalling pathway? What is the main finding and its importance? We showed that the combination of exercise training and quercetin supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in tumour incidence and improvement in depressive-like behaviours through modulation of the BDNF/TrKβ/β-catenin axis in the prefrontal cortex.

ABSTRACT

In addition to physical problems, depression is considered to be one of the most important challenges for patients with various types of cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. Inflammation and upregulation of brain neurotrophic factors are two major links between cancer and depression. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the alleviative effects of quercetin and exercise training on depressive-like behaviours in rats with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)-induced colorectal cancer and to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Animals were assigned into the following five groups: (i) control group; (ii) DMH (20 mg kg^-1 s.c., once a week for 10 weeks); (iii) DMH for 10 weeks, followed by quercetin (50 mg kg^-1 p.o., once per week) for 12 weeks; (iv) DMH for 10 weeks, followed by exercise training for 12 weeks; and (v) DMH for 10 weeks, followed by quercetin and exercise training for 12 weeks. The DMH-treated rats showed an increase in depressive-like behaviours in both open field and forced swimming tests. Histopathological examination revealed neural damage and reduced Nissl bodies in the prefrontal cortex. In addition, administration of DMH increased inflammatory cytokines in the serum, prefrontal cortex and tumour tissues and decreased the expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tyrosine kinase β receptor (TrKβ) and β-catenin in the cortex. In contrast, treatment with quercetin and exercise training effectively alleviated all the above-mentioned DMH-associated behavioural, biochemical and histopathological alterations without changing its anti-tumour activity. Taken together, our results show that the combination of quercetin and exercise training exerts potent anti-tumour and anti-depressive effects through suppression of inflammation and upregulation of the BDNF/TrKβ/β-catenin axis in the prefrontal cortex.

Mitigating the Effects of Oxidative Sperm DNA Damage

Sperm DNA damage is correlated with reduced embryo development and increased miscarriage risk, reducing successful conception. Given its links with oxidative stress, antioxidants have been investigated as a potential treatment, yet results are conflicting. Importantly, individual antioxidants are not identical in composition, and some compounds may be more effective than others. We investigated the use of the polyphenol-rich, high-antioxidant-capacity fruit acai as a treatment for elevated sperm DNA fragmentation (>16%), measured by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL). Following ≥ 74 days of treatment, we observed a significant decrease in sperm DNA fragmentation (-17.0% ± 2.5%) to 11.9 ± 1.7% (0-37%), with a 68.6% success rate (defined as post-treatment TUNEL < 16%). Post-treatment decreases in DNA fragmentation and success rates were not significantly impacted by low motility and/or concentration, or exceptionally high (> 25%) TUNEL. Treatment significantly reduced concentration in men with normal semen parameters, but 88% remained normal. Overall, successful treatment was not associated with age, semen parameters or TUNEL result at baseline. However, body mass index was significantly higher in nonresponders at baseline. This study provides evidence of a low-cost, effective treatment for elevated sperm DNA damage using acai.

Protective effect of the medicinal herb infusion "horchata" against oxidative damage in cigarette smokers: An ex vivo study

Cigarette smoking has been associated with an increase in oxidative stress (OS) and is considered a predisposing factor to chronic noncommunicable diseases, whilst dietary antioxidants has been proposed as an alternative to cope with this oxidative stress. In this study, 20 smokers and 20 non-smokers were studied with the aim of determining their antioxidant status, as well as the ability of an infusion of 23 medicinal plants, to counteract the damage caused by OS. The plasma, red blood cells (RBCs) and polymorphonuclear cells (PBMCs) of both groups were incubated or not with the horchata infusion extract and then the OS markers, genotoxicity, nanostructure of RBCs membrane and genes related to oxidative responses and cellular functionality were evaluated. Up to 33 different compounds, mainly quercetin glycosides, were identified in the extract. A significant deterioration in the antioxidant status in smokers compared to non-smokers was found. The horchata infusion extract improved the nanostructure of RBCs and DNA damage, as well as the activity of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes and markers of oxidative damage to lipid, and proteins in plasma, RBCs and PBMCs in both groups, whilst no significant changes were found in the expression of different genes related to OS response.

Quercetin attenuated oxidative DNA damage through NRF2 signaling pathway in rats with DMH induced colon carcinogenesis

Accumulating recent studies have demonstrated the preventive and therapeutic effects of polyphonic compounds such as quercetin in colorectal cancer. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the underlying mechanisms for positive effects of quercetin in rats with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH)- induced colorectal cancer. For this purpose, male Wistar rats were classified as 6 groups, including group 1 without any intervention, group 2 as quercetin received rats (50 mg/kg), groups 3 as DMH received rats (20 mg/kg) group 4-6 DMH and quercetin received rats. DNA damage, DNA repair, the expression levels and activities of enzymic antioxidants, non-enzymic antioxidants, and NRF2/Keap1 signaling were evaluated in colon tissues of all groups. Our results showed significant suppression of DNA damage and induction of DNA repair in DMH + Quercetin groups, particularly in entire-period in comparison to other groups (p < .05). The expression levels and activities of enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidants were increased in DMH + Quercetin groups (p < .05). Lipid and protein peroxidation were significantly suppressed in DMH + Quercetin groups (p < .05). In addition, quercetin also modulated NRF2/Keap1 signaling and its targets, detoxifying enzymes in DMH + Quercetin groups. Our finding demonstrated that quercetin supplementation effectively reversed DMH-mediated oxidative stress and DNA damage through targeting NRF2/Keap1 signaling pathway.

Molecular mechanisms linking environmental toxicants to cancer development: Significance for protective interventions with polyphenols

Human exposure to environmental toxicants with diverse mechanisms of action is a growing concern. In addition to well-recognized carcinogens, various chemicals in environmental and occupational settings have been suggested to impact health, increasing susceptibility to cancer by inducing genetic and epigenetic changes. Accordingly, in this review, we have discussed recent insights into the pathological mechanisms of these chemicals, namely their effects on cell redox and calcium homeostasis, mitochondria and inflammatory signaling, with a focus on the possible implications for multi-stage carcinogenesis and its reversal by polyphenols. Plant-derived polyphenols, such as epigallocatechin-gallate, resveratrol, curcumin and anthocyanins reduce the incidence of cancer and can be useful nutraceuticals for alleviating the detrimental outcomes of harmful pollutants. However, development of therapies based on polyphenol administration requires further studies to validate the biological efficacy, identifying effective doses, mode of action and new delivery forms. Innovative microphysiological testing models are presented and specific proposals for future trials are given. Merging the current knowledge of multifactorial actions of specific polyphenols and chief environmental toxicants, this work aims to potentiate the delivery of phytochemical-based protective treatments to individuals at high-risk due to environmental exposure.