Red raspberry extract (Rubus idaeus L shrub) intake ameliorates hyperlipidemia in HFD-induced mice through PPAR signaling pathway

Gut Microbiota Targeted Approach by Natural Products in Diabetes Management: An Overview

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review delves into the complex interplay between obesity-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis and the progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), highlighting the potential of natural products in mitigating these effects. By integrating recent epidemiological data, we aim to provide a nuanced understanding of how obesity exacerbates T2DM through gut flora alterations.

RECENT FINDINGS

Advances in research have underscored the significance of bioactive ingredients in natural foods, capable of restoring gut microbiota balance, thus offering a promising approach to manage diabetes in the context of obesity. These findings build upon the traditional use of medicinal plants in diabetes treatment, suggesting a deeper exploration of their mechanisms of action. This comprehensive manuscript underscores the critical role of targeting gut microbiota dysbiosis in obesity-related T2DM management and by bridging traditional knowledge with current scientific evidence; we highlighted the need for continued research into natural products as a complementary strategy for comprehensive diabetes care.

The Effects of Raspberry Consumption on Glycemic Control and Inflammation Markers in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Despite observing the health benefits of raspberry consumption in some recent studies, there is still no consensus regarding this effectiveness on inflammatory markers and glycemic control. This study aimed to investigate this effectiveness by performing a meta-analysis. The PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were comprehensively searched until December 2023 to find relevant randomized controlled trials. Eligible studies were screened, and relevant information was extracted. The overall effect size of raspberry consumption on each of the outcomes was estimated by following the random-effects model in the form of a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a weighted mean difference (WMD). Raspberry consumption led to a significant increase in insulin concentrations (WMD: 1.89 μU/mL; 95%CI: 1.45, 2.34; P < 0.001) and a significant decrease in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) concentrations (WMD: -3.07 pg/mL; 95%CI: -5.17, -0.97; P = 0.004), compared with the control groups. Raspberry consumption did not have a significant effect on fasting blood glucose, insulin, hemoglobin A1C, glucose tolerance tests, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, C-reactive protein, and interleukin-6 concentrations. This review revealed that raspberry consumption led to a significant increase and decrease in insulin and TNF-α concentrations, respectively. However, to draw a more accurate conclusion, it is necessary to conduct studies with a larger sample size in the future. The current study's protocol has been registered in the PROSPERO system as CRD42023477559.

Perturbed Lipid Metabolism Transduction Pathways in SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Their Possible Treating Nutraceuticals

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic has evolved into an international public health concern. Its causing agent was SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), a lipid bilayer encapsulated virus. Lipids have relevance in the host's viral cycle; additionally; viruses have been speculated to manipulate lipid signaling and production to influence the lipidome of host cells. SARS-CoV-2 engages the host lipid pathways for replication, like fatty acid synthesis activation via upregulation of AKT and SREBP pathway and inhibiting lipid catabolism by AMPK and PPAR deactivation. Consequently, lipoprotein levels are altered in most cases, i.e., raised LDL, TG, VLDL levels and reduced HDL levels like a hyperlipidemic state. Apo lipoproteins, a subsiding structural part of lipoproteins, may also impact viral spike protein binding to host cell receptors. In a few studies conducted on COVID-19 patients, maintaining Apo lipoprotein levels has also shown antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 infection. It was speculated that several potent hypolipidemic drugs, such as statins, hydroxychloroquine, and metformin, could be used as add-on treatment in COVID-19 management. Nutraceuticals like Garlic, Fenugreek, and vinegar have the potency to lower the lipid capability acting via these pathways. A link between COVID-19 and post-COVID alteration in lipoprotein levels has not yet been fully understood. In this review, we try to look over the possible modifications in lipid metabolism due to SARS-CoV-2 viral exposure, besides the prospect of focusing on the potential of lipid metabolic processes to interrupt the viral cycle.

Sanghuangporus vaninii extract ameliorates hyperlipidemia in rats by mechanisms identified with transcriptome analysis

The increasing incidence of hyperlipidemia is a serious threat to public health. The development of effective and safe lipid-lowering drugs with few side effects is necessary. The purpose of this study was to assess the lipid-lowering activity of Sanghuangporus vaninii extract (SVE) in rat experiments and reveal the molecular mechanism by transcriptome analysis. Hyperlipidemia was induced in the animals using a high-fat diet for 4 weeks. At the end of the 4th week, hyperlipidemic rats were assigned into two control groups (model and positive simvastatin control) and three treatment groups that received SVE at 200, 400, or 800 mg kg-1 day-1 for another 4 weeks. A last control group comprised normal chow-fed rats. At the end of the 8th week, rats were sacrificed and lipid serum levels, histopathology, and liver transcriptome profiles were determined. SVE was demonstrated to relieve the lipid disorder and improve histopathological liver changes in a dose-dependent manner. The transcriptomic analysis identified changes in hepatocyte gene activity for major pathways including steroid biosynthesis, bile secretion, cholesterol metabolism, AMPK signaling, thyroid hormone signaling, and glucagon signaling. The changed expression of crucial genes in the different groups was confirmed by qPCR. Collectively, this study revealed that SVE could relieve hyperlipidemia in rats, the molecular mechanism might be to promote the metabolism of lipids and the excretion of cholesterol, inhibit the biosynthesis of cholesterol by activating the AMPK signaling pathway, the thyroid hormone signaling pathway, and the glucagon signaling pathway.

Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds: Exploring Neuroprotective, Metabolic, and Hepatoprotective Effects for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

There is a growing trend among consumers to seek out natural foods and products with natural ingredients. This shift in consumer preferences had a direct impact on both food and pharmaceutical industries, leading to a focus of scientific research and commercial efforts to meet these new demands. The aim of this work is to review recent available scientific data on foods of interest, such as the artichoke, gooseberry, and polygonoideae plants, as well as olive oil and red raspberries. Interestingly, the urgency of solutions to the climate change emergency has brought new attention to by-products of grapevine bunch stem and cane, which have been found to contain bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. There is a pressing need for a faster process of translating scientific knowledge from the laboratory to real-world applications, especially in the face of the increasing societal burden associated with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), environmental crises, the post-pandemic world, and ongoing violent conflicts around the world.

The effects of raspberry consumption on lipid profile and blood pressure in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Research into the effects of raspberry on blood pressure and lipid profiles is inconclusive. This meta-analysis was aimed to determine whether raspberry has beneficial effects in clinical practice and to what extent these effects are associated with blood pressure and lipid profiles. A systematic literature search up to September 2023 was completed in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science, to identify eligible RCTs. Heterogeneity tests of the selected trials were performed using the I 2 statistic. Random effects models were evaluated based on the heterogeneity tests, and pooled data were determined as weighted mean differences with a 95% confidence interval. Eleven randomized controlled trials (with 13 arms) were eligible for this meta-analysis. Our findings revealed that Raspberry consumption had no significant effects on the blood pressure and lipid profile markers, including systolic blood pressure (SBP) (WMD, -0.37 mm Hg; 95%CI: -2.19 to 1.44; p = .68), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD, -2.14 mm Hg; 95%CI: -4.27 to 0.00; p = .05), total cholesterol (TC) (WMD, -6.83 mg/dL; 95%CI: -15.11 to 1.44; p = .10), triglycerides (TG) (WMD, -5.19 mg/dL: 95%CI: -11.76 to 1.37; p = .12), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) (WMD, -5.19 mg/dL; 95%CI: -11.58 to 1.18; p = .11), and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) (WMD, 0.82 mg/dL; 95%CI: -1.67 to 3.32; p = .51), compared to control groups. Subgroup analysis showed that raspberry consumption significantly decreased total cholesterol and LDL-C levels in people with elevated TC levels, metabolic syndrome, and andropause symptoms, as well as those older than 35, while the consumption of raspberries led to a significant increase in HDL-C levels in females, obese, under 35, and healthy individuals. Raspberry can improve lipid profile and blood pressure, but it is important to keep in mind that further research is necessary to fully understand the exact mechanism of action and a definite conclusion in this regard.

Lipid Metabolic Disorders Induced by Organophosphate Esters in Silver Carp from the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River

The Yangtze River fishery resources have declined strongly over the past few decades. One suspected reason for the decline in fishery productivity, including silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix), has been linked to organophosphate esters (OPEs) contaminant exposure. In this study, the adverse effect of OPEs on lipid metabolism in silver carp captured from the Yangtze River was examined, and our results indicated that muscle concentrations of the OPEs were positively associated with serum cholesterol and total lipid levels. In vivo laboratory results revealed that exposure to environmental concentrations of OPEs significantly increased the concentrations of triglyceride, cholesterol, and total lipid levels. Lipidome analysis further confirmed the lipid metabolism dysfunction induced by OPEs, and glycerophospholipids and sphingolipids were the most affected lipids. Hepatic transcriptomic analysis found that OPEs caused significant alterations in the transcription of genes involved in lipid metabolism. Pathways associated with lipid homeostasis, including the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signal pathway, cholesterol metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and steroid biosynthesis, were significantly changed. Furthermore, the affinities of OPEs were different, but the 11 OPEs tested could bind with PPARγ, suggesting that OPEs could disrupt lipid metabolism by interacting with PPARγ. Overall, this study highlighted the harmful effects of OPEs on wild fish and provided mechanistic insights into OPE-induced metabolic disorders.

The Effect of Rubus idaeus Polyphenols Extract in Induced Endometriosis in Rats

Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition with a complex physio-pathological background. This study aimed to assess the role of Rubus idaeus leaf extract (RiDE) as a potential therapeutic agent in reducing the size of the endometriotic lesions and modulate the plasma expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, and TGF-β1. The endometriotic lesions were induced in a rat model by the autologous transplant of endometrium. Thirty-six female rats, Wistar breed, with induced endometriosis, were divided into four groups and underwent treatment for 28 days. The CTRL group received 0.5 mL/day of the vehicle; the DG group received 1 mg/kg b.w./day dienogest; the RiDG group received 0.25 mL/kg b.w./day RiDE and the D+RiDG group received 1 mg/kg b.w./day dienogest and 0.25 mL/kg b.w./day RiDE, respectively. Rats' weight, endometriotic lesion diameter and grade, and plasma levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, and TGF-β1 were assessed before and after treatment. The administration of RiDE in association with dienogest vs. dienogest determined a lower weight gain and a reduction in diameter of the endometriotic lesions. RiDE administration restored MMP2 and MMP9 plasma levels to initial conditions. Rubus idaeus extract may help in reducing dienogest-associated weight gain, lower the size of endometriotic lesions, and have anti-inflammatory effects through MMP2 and MMP9 reduction.

Human APOE4 Protects High-Fat and High-Sucrose Diet Fed Targeted Replacement Mice against Fatty Liver Disease Compared to APOE3

Recent genome- and exome-wide association studies suggest that the human APOE ε4 allele protects against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), while ε3 promotes hepatic steatosis and steatohepatitis. The present study aimed at examining the APOE genotype-dependent development of fatty liver disease and its underlying mechanisms in a targeted replacement mouse model. Male mice expressing the human APOE3 or APOE4 protein isoforms on a C57BL/6J background and unmodified C57BL/6J mice were chronically fed a high-fat and high-sucrose diet to induce obesity. After 7 months, body weight gain was more pronounced in human APOE than endogenous APOE expressing mice with elevated plasma biomarkers suggesting aggravated metabolic dysfunction. APOE3 mice exhibited the highest liver weights and, compared to APOE4, massive hepatic steatosis. An untargeted quantitative proteome analysis of the liver identified a high number of proteins differentially abundant in APOE3 versus APOE4 mice. The majority of the higher abundant proteins in APOE3 mice could be grouped to inflammation and damage-associated response, and lipid storage, amongst others. Results of the targeted qRT-PCR and Western blot analyses contribute to the overall finding that APOE3 as opposed to APOE4 promotes hepatic steatosis, inflammatory- and damage-associated response signaling and fibrosis in the liver of obese mice. Our experimental data substantiate the observation of an increased NAFLD-risk associated with the human APOEε3 allele, while APOEε4 appears protective. The underlying mechanisms of the protection possibly involve a higher capacity of nonectopic lipid deposition in subcutaneous adipose tissue and lower hepatic pathogen recognition in the APOE4 mice.

Intermittent cold stimulation affects energy metabolism and improves stress resistance in broiler heart

To investigate the effect of intermittent cold stimulation on cardiac energy metabolism and cold resistance of broilers, 288 broilers were divided into 3 groups: control group (CC) and 2 cold stimulation groups (CS3 and CS9). The CS3 and CS9 groups received cold stimulation at temperatures of 3°C and 9°C lower than CC group for 5 h from d 15 to 35. Three groups were subjected to acute cold stress (ACS) of 10°C for 12 and 24 h at 44 d. Performance, cardiac histopathological changes, heat shock proteins (HSPs), and lipid metabolism levels were measured. Results showed that the performance was not different among groups at 22 and 29 d (P > 0.05), but the mRNA levels of Acyl CoA synthase long-chain family member 1 (ACSL1) and acyl-coenzyme oxidase (ACO) in CS group were upregulated compared to CC group (P < 0.05). At 36 d, the performance of the CS3 group was better than the other 2 groups, myocardial structure was normal and other lipid metabolism indexes, except for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) levels, were similar to those of CC group (P > 0.05). The myocardial fiber disorder, Triglyceride (TG), and leptin (LEP) contents were significantly lower in CS9 group than in CC and CS3 groups at 36 d (P < 0.05). The HSP protein levels were significantly higher in CS group than in CC group before ACS (P < 0.05). After 24 h of ACS, the mRNA of lipid metabolism genes, the protein levels of HSP40 and HSP60, and the contents of TG and LEP in the CS3 group were upregulated compared to other groups. The CC and CS9 groups showed myocardial structure was destroyed, with lower TG and LEP levels compared to before ACS (P < 0.05). Therefore, cold stimulation at 3°C lower than the normal feeding temperature for 5 h did not impair performance but can increase the resistance of broilers to ACS by promoting lipid metabolism.

Danggui Shaoyao San ameliorates the lipid metabolism via the PPAR signaling pathway in a Danio rerio (zebrafish) model of hyperlipidemia

The escalating prevalence of hyperlipidemia has a profound impact on individuals' daily physiological well-being. The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription Danggui Shaoyao San (DSS) has demonstrated significant clinical efficacy and promising prospects for clinical application. Leveraging network pharmacology and bioinformatics, we hypothesize that DSS can ameliorate lipid metabolic disorders in hyperlipidemia by modulating the PPAR signaling pathway. In this study, we employed a zebrafish model to investigate the impact of DSS on lipid metabolism in hyperlipidemia. Body weight alterations were monitored by pre- and postmodeling weight measurements. Behavioral assessments and quantification of liver biochemical markers were conducted using relevant assay kits. Pathways associated with lipid metabolism were identified through network pharmacology and GEO analysis, while PCR was utilized to assess genes linked to lipid metabolism. Western blotting was employed to analyze protein expression levels, and liver tissue underwent Oil Red O and immunofluorescence staining to evaluate liver lipid deposition. Our findings demonstrate that DSS effectively impedes weight gain and reduces liver lipid accumulation in zebrafish models with elevated lipid levels. The therapeutic effects of DSS on lipid metabolism are mediated through its modulation of the PPAR signaling pathway, resulting in a significant reduction in lipid accumulation within the body and alleviation of certain hyperlipidemia-associated symptoms.

Rubi idaei fructus as a Source of Bioactive Chemical Compounds with an Important Role in Human Health and Comparison of the Antioxidant Potential of Fruits and Juice of Three Repeat-Fruiting Rubus idaeus L. Cultivars

Rubi idaei fructus is a source of nutritionally important bioactive chemical compounds, mainly antioxidants, which strengthen the immune system and can be used in the prophylaxis and adjuvant therapies of many oxidative stress-induced diseases. There are no literature reports presenting a comprehensive comparative analysis of the antioxidant activity and nutritionally relevant metabolites contained in the fruits of repeat-fruiting raspberry cultivars, which are commonly grown in Europe. The aim of this study was to carry out a comparative analysis of the antioxidant potential (Folin-Ciocalteu, DPPH, FRAP), the content of selected primary and secondary metabolites, and the qualitative and quantitative composition of amino acids and fatty acids in the fruits of R. idaeus cv. 'Pokusa', 'Polana', and 'Polka'. The fruits of the analyzed cultivars have a low caloric value (171-219 kcal/100 g); low content of available carbohydrates (6-6.6%) and total carbohydrates (3.4-4.8%); and high levels of dietary fiber (4.7-5.8%), vitamin C (22.8-27 mg/100 g), anthocyanins (25.1-29.6 mg/100 g), and flavonoids (0.5-2.6 mg/100 g). The fruits were found to contain valuable unsaturated fatty acids (35-60%), especially MUFAs with dominant oleic, elaidic, palmitic, and erucic acids and PUFAs (α-linolenic, eicosapentaenoic, and linoleic acids). MUFAs from the ω-9 group accounted for 12-18%, whereas the content of PUFAs from the ω-3 and ω-6 groups was in the range of 15-23 and 6-21%, respectively. Exogenous amino acids, accounting for 56-62%, were dominated by leucine, phenylalanine, and lysine. The following order of the total polyphenolic content was established in the fresh fruit juice from the analyzed cultivars: 'Pokusa' < 'Polana' < 'Polka'. The different antioxidant capacity assays used in the study confirmed the high antioxidant potential of the fruits and fresh juice from the three R. idaeus cultivars. This indicates that raspberry fruits can serve as a source of nutrients and can be used as a valuable supplement in a healthy human diet and a raw material in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

Ethnopharmacology of Rubus idaeus Linnaeus: A critical review on ethnobotany, processing methods, phytochemicals, pharmacology and quality control

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rubus idaeus Linnaeus (RI) is a Chinese herbal medicine that has been widely used in China for a long time to reinforce the kidney, nourish the liver, improve vision, and arrest polyuria.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This work aims to evaluate the recent progress of the chemical composition, pharmacological activity, pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and quality control and of Rubus idaeus, which focuses on the insufficiency of existing research and will shed light on future studies of Rubus idaeus.

METHODS

Literatures about "Rubus idaeus","Red raspberry" and "Fupenzi"are retrieved by browsing the database, such as Web of Science (http://www.webofknowledge.com/wos), Pubmed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/), CNKI (http://www.cnki.net/), and Wanfang Data (http://www.wanfangdata.com.cn). In addition, related textbooks and digital documents are interrogated to provide a holistic and critical review of the topic. The period of the literature covered from 1981 to 2022.

RESULTS

Approximately 194 compounds have been isolated from Rubus idaeus, which is rich in phenols, terpenoids, alkaloids, steroids, and fatty acids. Numerous investigations have demonstrated that Rubus idaeus exhibits many pharmacological activities, including hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic, anti-Alzheimer effect, anti-osteoporosis, hepatoprotective, anti-cancer, neuroprotective, anti-bacteria and skin care, etc. However, it is worth noting that most of the research is not associated with the conventional effect, such as reducing urination and treating opacity of the cornea.

CONCLUSION

The effectiveness of Rubus idaeus has been proved by its long-term clinical application. The research on the pharmacological activity of Rubus idaeus has flourished. In many pharmacological experiments, only the high-dose group can achieve the corresponding efficacy, so the efficacy of Rubus idaeus needs to be further interrogated. Meanwhile, the relationship between pharmacological activity and specific compounds of Rubus idaeus has not been clarified yet. Last but not least, studies involving toxicology and pharmacokinetics are very limited. Knowledge of bioavailability and toxicological behavior of Rubus idaeus can help understand the herb's pharmacodynamic and safety profile.

The hypolipidemic mechanism of chrysanthemum flavonoids and its main components, luteolin and luteoloside, based on the gene expression profile

In this study, the following four groups of mice with hyperlipidemia were involved: the model control group (MC), the Chrysanthemum flavonoids group (CF), the luteolin group, and the luteoloside group. The whole gene expression profile was detected in the liver tissues of each group. Differential genes significantly enriched in the biological process of gene ontology (GO) items and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were selected, and 4 differential genes related to lipid metabolism were selected for further real-time quantitative PCR verification. Compared with the MC, 41 differential genes such as Sqle, Gck, and Idi1 were screened in the CF intervention group; 68 differential genes such as Acsl3, Cyp7a1, and Lpin1 were screened in the luteolin intervention group (CF); and 51 differential genes such as Acaca, Cyp7a1, and Lpin1 were screened in the luteoloside group. The mechanism of CF to improve hyperlipidemia is very complex, mainly involving biological processes such as cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism and glycolysis, luteolin mainly involves the synthesis and transport of cholesterol, and luteoloside mainly involves fatty acid metabolism. The functional pathways of CF may not be completely the same as luteolin and luteoloside, and further study is needed on the mechanism of action of other components.

Research progress of anthocyanin prebiotic activity: A review

BACKGROUND

Anthocyanins are a kind of flavonoids and natural water-soluble pigments, which endow fruits, vegetables, and plants with multiple colors. They are important source of new products with prebiotic activity. However, there is no systematic review documenting prebiotic activity of anthocyanins and their structural analogues. This study aims to fill this gap in literature.

PURPOSE

The objective of this review is to summarize and evaluate the prebiotic activity of anthocyanin's, and discuss the physical and molecular modification methods to improve their biological activities.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In this review, the databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Researchgate and Elsevier) were searched profoundly with keywords (anthocyanin's, prebiotics, probiotics, physical embedding and molecular modification).

RESULTS

A total of 34 articles were considered for reviewing. These studies approved that anthocyanins play an important role in promoting the proliferation of probiotics, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and improving the intestinal environment. In addition, physical embedding and molecular modification have also been proved to be effective methods to improve the prebiotic activity of anthocyanins. Anthocyanins could promote the production of short chain fatty acids, accelerate self degradation and improve microbial related enzyme activities to promote the proliferation of probiotics. They inhibited the growth of harmful bacteria by inhibiting the expression of harmful bacteria genes, interfering with the role of metabolism related enzymes and affecting respiratory metabolism. They promoted the formation of a complete intestinal barrier and regulated the intestinal environment to keep the body healthy. Physical embedding, including microencapsulation and colloidal embedding, greatly improved the stability of anthocyanins. On the other hand, molecular modification, especially enzymatic modification, significantly improved the biological activities (antioxidant, prebiotic activity and so on) of anthocyanins.

CONCLUSION

All these research results displayed by this review indicate that anthocyanins are a useful tool for developing prebiotic products. The better activities of the new anthocyanins formed by embedding and modification may make them become more effective raw materials. Our review provides a scientific basis for the future research and application of anthocyanins.

Effect of Lactobacillus fermentum HFY06 Combined with Arabinoxylan on Reducing Lipid Accumulation in Mice Fed with High-Fat Diet

In this experiment, a high-fat diet was used to induce hyperlipidemia in mice to determine the synergistic effect of AX and L. fermentum HFY06 on the prevention of hyperlipidemia and its potential regulatory mechanism. The results of this study showed that after the AX and L. fermentum HFY06 synergistic intervention, the body weight, epididymal fat index, blood lipid level, and liver function indexes of mice were improved. In addition, the synbiotics comprising AX and L. fermentum HFY06 increased the CAT activity in the serum of mice on a high-fat diet, reduced NO and MDA levels, and improved the body's oxidative stress. From the perspective of molecular biology, on the one hand, AX and L. fermentum HFY06 synergistic intervention activated the AMPK pathway to regulate body lipid metabolism; up-regulated the mRNA expressions of CPT-1, PPAR-α, CYP7A1, and HSL; and down-regulated the mRNA expressions of ACC, C/EBPα, and LPL. On the other hand, the synergistic effect of AX and HFY06 enhanced the mRNA expressions of ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1 in the small intestine of mice, increased the strength of the intestinal barrier, and optimized the composition of the intestinal microbiota. From the above results, it can be concluded that AX and L. fermentum HFY06 have a synergistic effect in improving hyperlipidemia. However, this study was only performed using animal models, and the lipid synthesis and metabolism mechanism are complicated; hence, further clinical studies are needed.

Exploring Compounds to be used as Cosmetic Agents that Activate Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Alpha

OBJECTIVE

The human epidermis is formed by the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes adjacent to the basement membrane. The outermost layer, the stratum corneum, is equipped with a barrier function that prevents water evaporation, and intercellular lipids play an important role in this barrier function. When the barrier is functioning normally, evaporation is prevented; however, when barrier function is impaired, moisture evaporates, resulting in dry and rough skin. Therefore, maintenance of normal barrier function is critical for maintaining normal skin function. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) is mainly involved in lipid metabolism in the liver but is also expressed in the epidermis and is involved in inducing keratinocyte differentiation, promoting lipid production, maintaining barrier function, and suppressing skin inflammation. Hence, compounds that activate PPARα are expected to control skin function. Therefore, we identified PPARα activators from among extracts of natural resources that have been approved for use in humans and analyzed the effects of these extracts on skin function.

METHODS

First, extracts of 474 natural resources were screened using a PPARα activator screening cell line independently constructed in our laboratory. Next, reporter assays were performed using the Gal4-chimera system to evaluate whether these extracts act as ligands for PPARα. We then analyzed their effect on primary normal human epidermal keratinocyte cells by using real-time RT-PCR. Finally, we evaluated PPARα activation effect by the combination of these extracts.

RESULTS

We identified 36 extracts having the effect of activating PPARα. In particular, #419, a Typha angustifolia spike extract, showed concentration-dependent transcriptional activation through PPARα-LBD and was considered to be likely to contain a compound that is a ligand of PPARα. #419 increased the expression of PPARα target genes as well as genes related to skin function in primary cultured human epidermal keratinocytes. Finally, the use of #419 in combination with nine extracts increased PPAR activity more than twice as much as #419 alone treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These results showed that the reporter cell line could be useful for discovering extracts of natural resources and that the identified Typha angustifolia spike extract could be used in cosmetics that activate PPARα, which expected to improve skin function.

Effects of Xylooligosaccharides on Lipid Metabolism, Inflammation, and Gut Microbiota in C57BL/6J Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet

Xylooligosaccharide (XOS) is a source of prebiotics with multiple biological activities. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of XOS on mice fed a high-fat diet. Mice were fed either a normal diet or a high-fat diet supplemented without or with XOS (250 and 500 mg/kg), respectively, for 12 weeks. The results showed that the XOS inhibited mouse weight gain, decreased the epididymal adipose index, and improved the blood lipid levels, including triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Moreover, XOS reduced the activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alleviated the damage to the liver caused by the high-fat diet. XOS also reduced hyperlipidemia-associated inflammatory responses. Additionally, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction results showed that XOS intervention activated the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway to regulate the fat synthesis, decomposition, and β oxidation; upregulated the mRNA expression levels of carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 (CPT-1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors α (PPAR-α), and cholesterol 7-alpha hydroxylase (CYP7A1); and downregulated the mRNA expression levels of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), and lipoprotein lipase (LPL). On the other hand, XOS enhanced the mRNA expression levels of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin, and claudin-1 in the small intestine; increased the strength of the intestinal barrier; and optimized the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Therefore, it was concluded that XOS regulated the intestinal barrier, changed the intestinal microecology, and played an important role in preventing hyperlipidemia through the unique anatomical advantages of the gut-liver axis.

Protective mechanism of mung bean coat against hyperlipidemia in mice fed with a high-fat diet: insight from hepatic transcriptome analysis

Mung bean coat (MBC) is a good source of dietary fibre and phenolic compounds with medical properties, and can alleviate metabolic diseases. In the present study, the effects of MBC on high fat diet (HFD)-induced hyperlipidemia mice were evaluated, and the underlying mechanisms of MBC against hyperlipidemia from hepatic transcriptional analysis were explored. Four groups of mice were fed a normal control diet or a HFD with or without MBC supplementation (6%, w/w) for 12 weeks. The results demonstrated that MBC supplementation could effectively alleviate HFD-induced obese symptoms, such as body weight gain and white adipose tissue accumulation. Notably, the serum lipid profiles, including total triglyceride, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, were significantly lowered, accompanied by a significant improvement in hepatic steatosis. RNA-sequencing analysis indicated 1126 differential expression genes responding to MBC supplementation, and the PPAR signaling pathway was significantly enriched. Furthermore, MBC supplementation could significantly upregulate the transcriptional expression of lipid transformation (lipidolysis)-related genes (Cpt1b, Cyp7a1, and PPAR-α) and downregulate the transcriptional expression of lipid synthesis-related genes (Scd1, Cd36, and PPAR-γ) to protect against the HFD-induced hyperlipidemia, and they were confirmed by qRCR and western blotting validation. Taken together, the present study provides valuable information for understanding the curative effects and action mechanism of MBC in alleviating hyperlipidemia, and thus may contribute to the development and application of MBC as functional foods or dietary supplement to protect against hyperlipidemia.

An Integrative Co-localization (INCO) Analysis for SNV and CNV Genomic Features With an Application to Taiwan Biobank Data

Genomic studies have been a major approach to elucidating disease etiology and to exploring potential targets for treatments of many complex diseases. Statistical analyses in these studies often face the challenges of multiplicity, weak signals, and the nature of dependence among genetic markers. This situation becomes even more complicated when multi-omics data are available. To integrate the data from different platforms, various integrative analyses have been adopted, ranging from the direct union or intersection operation on sets derived from different single-platform analysis to complex hierarchical multi-level models. The former ignores the biological relationship between molecules while the latter can be hard to interpret. We propose in this study an integrative approach that combines both single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and copy number variations (CNVs) in the same genomic unit to co-localize the concurrent effect and to deal with the sparsity due to rare variants. This approach is illustrated with simulation studies to evaluate its performance and is applied to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride measurements from Taiwan Biobank. The results show that the proposed method can more effectively detect the collective effect from both SNVs and CNVs compared to traditional methods. For the biobank analysis, the identified genetic regions including the gene VNN2 could be novel and deserve further investigation.

Effects of Dietary Red Raspberry Consumption on Pre-Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Parameters

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic condition characterized by glucose clearance abnormalities and insufficient insulin response. Left uncontrolled, T2DM can result in serious complications and death. With no cure available currently and the prevalence of major risk factors such as pre-diabetes and the metabolic syndrome continuously increasing, there is an urgent need for effective treatments with limited or no side effects. Red raspberries (RR) contain various phytonutrients with potential for modulating insulin function, glucose, and lipid metabolism. The objective of this literature review was to investigate the potential metabolic benefits of dietary RR in individuals with T2DM and pre-diabetes. A search of major scientific databases was employed to identify peer-reviewed, in vivo, or human studies that utilized whole RR or its functional constituents as treatment. The studies examined provide evidence that RR may offer clinically beneficial effects for the prevention and management of chronic diseases through improvements in glucose handling and insulin sensitivity, adiposity, lipid profiles, ectopic lipid accumulation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiac health. More human trials and in vivo studies are needed to confirm the benefits of dietary RR in T2DM and pre-diabetes and to explore the dose-dependent relationships, optimal duration, and treatment modality.

Comprehensive multiomics analysis of the effect of ginsenoside Rb1 on hyperlipidemia

We analyzed the effects of ginsenoside Rb1 on hyperlipidemic in model mice. Using stool, plasma and hepatic tissue samples, we observed that the genera Blautia and Allobaculum were increased and Turicibacter was decrease in Rb1-treated mice as compared to untreated model mice. Ether lipid metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, and glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism were differentially enriched between the Rb1 and model groups. Lipidomics revealed 169 metabolites differentially expressed between the model and Rb1 groups in a positive ion model and 58 in a negative ion model. These metabolites mainly participate in glycerophospholipid, linoleic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism. The main metabolites enriched in these three pathways were phosphatidylcholine, diacylglycerol and ceramide, respectively. In a transcriptome analysis, 766 transcripts were differentially expressed between the Rb1 and model groups. KEGG analysis revealed lysine degradation, inositol phosphate metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism to be the main enriched pathways. Multiomics analysis revealed glycerophospholipid metabolism to be a common pathway and phosphatidylcholine the main metabolite differentially enriched between the Rb1 and model groups. Results from fecal transplanted germ-free mice suggest that to suppress hyperlipidemia, Rb1 regulates gut microbiota by regulating the synthesis and decomposition of phosphatidylcholine in glycerophospholipid metabolism, which in turn decreases serum total cholesterol.

Effect of Rubus idaeus Extracts in Murine Chondrocytes and Explants

Osteoarthritis is characterized by cartilage loss resulting from the activation of chondrocytes associated with a synovial inflammation. Activated chondrocytes promote an increased secretion of matrix proteases and proinflammatory cytokines leading to cartilage breakdown. Since natural products possess anti-inflammatory properties, we investigated the direct effect of Rubus idaeus extracts (RIE) in chondrocyte metabolism and cartilage loss. The effect of RIE in chondrocyte metabolism was analyzed in murine primary chondrocytes and cartilage explants. We also assessed the contribution of RIE in an inflammation environment by culturing mice primary chondrocytes with the supernatant of Raw 264.7 macrophage-like cells primed with RIE. In primary chondrocytes, RIE diminished chondrocyte hypertrophy (Col10), while increasing the expression of catabolic genes (Mmp-3, Mmp-13) and reducing anabolic genes (Col2a1, Acan). In cartilage explants, Rubus idaeus prevented the loss of proteoglycan (14.84 ± 3.07% loss of proteoglycans with IL1 alone vs. 3.03 ± 1.86% with IL1 and 100 µg/mL of RIE), as well as the NITEGE neoepitope expression. RIE alone reduced the expression of Il1 and Il6 in macrophages, without changes in Tnf and Cox2 expression. The secretome of macrophages pre-treated with RIE and transferred to chondrocytes decreases the gene and protein expression of Mmp-3 and Cox2. In conclusion, these data suggest that RIE may protect from chondrocyte catabolism and cartilage loss in inflammatory conditions. Further evaluations are need before considering RIE as a candidate for the treatment for osteoarthritis.

Effects of dibutyl phthalate on lipid metabolism in liver and hepatocytes based on PPARα/SREBP-1c/FAS/GPAT/AMPK signal pathway

Phateacid esters (PAEs), such as dibutyl phthalate (DBP), have been widely used and human exposure results into serious toxic effects; such as the development of fatty liver disease. In the present study, SD rat models for in vivo study (normal and fatty liver model group) and hepatocytes for in vitro study (normal and abnormal lipid metabolism model group) were established to determine the effects of DBP on liver function and discover the possible mechanisms. Meanwhile, the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPARα) blocker, GW6471, with the Adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, AICAR, were applied in vitro study to clarify the role of PPARα/SREBP-1c/FAS/GPAT/AMPK signal pathway in the process. Results suggested that DBP could activate PPARα signaling pathway and affected the protein expression of SREBP, FAS and GPAT to cause hyperlipidemia and abnormal liver function. DBP also could inhibit the phosphorylation and activation of AMPK to inhibit the decomposition and metabolism of lipids. Interestingly, the effects of DBP could be alleviated by GW6471 and AICAR. Our experimental results provide reliable evidence that DBP exposure could further induce liver lipid metabolism disorder and other hepatic toxicity through PPARα/SREBP-1c/FAS/GPAT/AMPK signal pathway.

Effects of Daily Raspberry Consumption on Immune-Metabolic Health in Subjects at Risk of Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Consumption of red raspberries has been reported to exert acute beneficial effects on postprandial glycemia, insulinemia, triglyceridemia, and cytokine levels in metabolically disturbed subjects. In a two-arm parallel-group, randomized, controlled trial, 59 subjects with overweight or abdominal obesity and with slight hyperinsulinemia or hypertriglyceridemia were randomized to consume 280 g/day of frozen raspberries or to maintain their usual diet for 8 weeks. Primary analyses measured metabolic differences between the groups. Secondary analyses performed with omics tools in the intervention group assessed blood gene expression and plasma metabolomic changes following the raspberry supplementation. The intervention did not significantly affect plasma insulin, glucose, inflammatory marker concentrations, nor blood pressure. Following the supplementation, 43 genes were differentially expressed, and several functional pathways were enriched, a major portion of which were involved in the regulation of cytotoxicity, immune cell trafficking, protein signal transduction, and interleukin production. In addition, 10 serum metabolites were found significantly altered, among which β-alanine, trimethylamine N-oxide, and bioactive lipids. Although the supplementation had no meaningful metabolic effects, these results highlight the impact of a diet rich in raspberry on the immune function and phospholipid metabolism, thus providing novel insights into potential immune-metabolic pathways influenced by regular raspberry consumption.

Bioactive Compounds of Edible Fruits with Their Anti-Aging Properties: A Comprehensive Review to Prolong Human Life

Aging is a complicated biological process in which functional and structural alterations in a living organism take place over time. Reactive oxygen species is one of the main factors responsible for aging and is associated with several chronic pathologies. The relationship between aging and diet is quite interesting and has attained worldwide attention. Healthy food, in addition to dietary antioxidants, are required to delay the process of aging and improve the quality of life. Many healthy foods such as fruits are a good source of dietary nutrients and natural bioactive compounds which have antioxidant properties and are involved in preventing aging and other age-related disorders. Health benefits linked with healthy consumption of fruit have drawn increased interest. A significant number of studies have documented the advantages of fruit intake, as it suppresses free-radical development that further reduces the oxidative stress created in the body and protects against several types of diseases such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, inflammatory disorders, and other cardiovascular diseases that ultimately prevent aging. In addition, fruits have numerous other properties like anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, anti-diabetic, neuroprotective, and have health-promoting effects. Mechanisms of various bioactive compounds that aids in preventing various diseases and increases longevity are also described. This manuscript provides a summary of various bioactive components present in fruits along with their health-promoting and antiaging properties.

Stachys sieboldii Miq. Root Attenuates Weight Gain and Dyslipidemia in Rats on a High-Fat and High-Cholesterol Diet

This study aimed at investigating the anti-obesity and anti-dyslipidemic effects of Stachys sieboldii Miq. root (SS) powder in rats following a high-fat and high-cholesterol (HFC) diet for 6 weeks. Thirty-two Sprague–Dawley rats were fed one of the following diets: a regular diet (RD), HFC, HFC supplemented with 3% SS (HFC + 3SS) or HFC supplemented with 5% SS (HFC + 5SS). Following an HFC diet increased body weight (BW) gain (p < 0.001) and the food efficiency ratio (FER; p < 0.001); however, SS consumption gradually prevented the HFC-induced BW gain (p < 0.001) and increase in FER (p < 0.01). The HFC diet resulted in increased liver size (p < 0.001) and total adipose tissue weight (p < 0.001), whereas the SS supplementation decreased hepatomegaly (p < 0.05) and body fat mass (p < 0.001). SS consumption prevented the increased activities of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT; p < 0.001), aspartate aminotransferase (AST; p < 0.001), alkaline phosphatase (ALP; p < 0.01 in HFC + 5SS) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; p < 0.001 in HFC + 5SS) induced by the HFC diet (p < 0.001). The SS supplementation improved lipid profiles in the circulation by lowering triglyceride (TG; p < 0.01), total cholesterol (TC; p < 0.001) and non-HDL cholesterol (non-HDL-C; p < 0.001) levels, as well as the atherogenic index (p < 0.01) and cardiac risk factor (p < 0.01). The lipid distribution in the liver (p < 0.05) and white adipose tissues (WAT; p < 0.001) of the HFC + SS diet-consuming rats was remarkably lower than that of the HFC diet-consuming rats. The average size of the epididymal adipose tissue (p < 0.001) was significantly lower in the HFC + SS diet-fed rats than in the HFC diet-fed rats. The fecal lipid (>3% SS; p < 0.001) and cholesterol (5% SS; p < 0.001) efflux levels were significantly elevated by the SS supplementation compared to those measured in the RD or HFC diet-fed groups. In addition, the hepatic lipid and cholesterol metabolism-related gene expressions were affected by SS consumption, as the hepatic anabolic gene expression (Acc; p < 0.001, Fas; p < 0.001 and G6pdh; p < 0.01) was significantly attenuated. The HFC + 5SS diet-fed rats exhibited elevated hepatic Cyp7a1 (p < 0.001), Hmgcr (p < 0.001) and Ldlr (p < 0.001) mRNA expression levels compared to the HFC diet-fed rats. These results suggest that SS may possess anti-adipogenic and lipid-lowering effects by enhancing lipid and cholesterol efflux in mammals.

Molecular insight into the mechanism of lipid regulating effect of Alisma orientalis based on ACAT

We studied the lipid-regulating effect and molecular mechanism of the medical components of Alisma orientalis: alisol A, alisol B, 23-acetyl alisol C (23C) and the 3 (alisol A): 1(alisol B):1(23C) and 2(alisol A):2(alisol B):1(23C) mixtures designed based on the ratio of them in Alisma orientalis from Fujian, Guangxi Province, China. The animal experiment and network pharmacology showed that ACAT was one of its lipid-regulating targets and alisols may reduce the level of TC by inhibiting ACAT activity. The molecular simulation and homologous modeling results suggested that the binding of alisol mixtures with ACAT was stronger than that of monomers because alisol monomers acted on different active regions of ACAT resulting in the superposition effect and caused the synergistic effect. The lipid-regulating effect of Fujian mixture was stronger than that of Guangxi mixture showing that 3:1:1 was a better ratio. The N-terminal lipid-regulating activity of ACAT was stronger than that of transmembrane domain 1.