Cholesterol-lowering effect of whole lupin (Lupinus albus) seed and its protein isolate

Proteome reorganization and amino acid metabolism during germination and seedling establishment in Lupinus albus

During germination plants rely entirely on their seed storage compounds to provide energy and precursors for the synthesis of macromolecular structures until the seedling has emerged from the soil and photosynthesis can be established. Lupin seeds use proteins as their major storage compounds, accounting for up to 40% of the seed dry weight. Lupins are therefore a valuable complement to soy as a source of plant protein for human and animal nutrition. The aim of this study was to elucidate how storage protein metabolism is coordinated with other metabolic processes to meet the requirements of the growing seedling. In a quantitative approach, we analysed seedling growth, as well as alterations in biomass composition, the proteome, and metabolite profiles during germination and seedling establishment in Lupinus albus. The reallocation of nitrogen resources from seed storage proteins to functional seed proteins was mapped based on a manually curated functional protein annotation database. Although classified as a protein crop, Lupinus albus does not use amino acids as a primary substrate for energy metabolism during germination. However, fatty acid and amino acid metabolism may be integrated at the level of malate synthase to combine stored carbon from lipids and proteins into gluconeogenesis.

Liver Antioxidant Capacity and Steatosis in Laying Hens Exposed to Various Quantities of Lupin (Lupinus angustifolius) Seeds in the Diet

Despite the many beneficial properties of legume plants, their use in diets for poultry is limited by the presence of antinutritional factors. The aim of the study was to determine the activity of DT-diaphorase, ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase, and catalase, and the concentration of malondialdehyde in liver tissue, as well as the activity of SOD and CAT in the serum of Hy-line Brown hens fed a diet supplemented with various doses of Lupinus angustifolius seeds. The results indicate that the use of large amounts of lupin in the diet resulted in an increase in MDA concentration in the liver and the lipid vacuolization of hepatocytes. A significant increase in DTD activity was observed in chickens receiving 15% lupin. Regardless of lupin dose, no increase in SOD activity was observed in chicken serum after 33 days of the experiment. From the 66th day of the experiment, an increase in catalase activity in the serum of laying hens was observed, while low activity of this enzyme was found in the liver. It can be concluded that the short-term use of lupin in the diet of laying hens does not affect the activity of antioxidant enzymes and, therefore, does not affect the oxidative-antioxidant balance of their body.

Jatobá-do-cerrado (Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart.) pulp positively affects plasma and hepatic lipids and increases short-chain fatty acid production in hamsters fed a hypercholesterolemic diet

This study aimed to assess the impact of jatobá pulp, in its fresh (FJ) and extruded (EJ) forms, on lipid metabolism and intestinal fermentation parameters in hamsters. In a 21-day experiment, we determined the parameters of the animal lipid metabolism and colonic production of short chain fatty acids in four different groups. Control (C), fresh pulp (FJ) and extruded pulp (EJ) were fed using hypercholesterolemic diets, and the reference (R) was fed using AIN93 meal. R and C diets contained cellulose, FJ and EJ were added by jatobá pulp as a fiber source. The results showed that FJ and EJ exhibited lower levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-c, non-HDL-c serum levels, liver lipids, and liver weight compared to C. The EJ had higher bile acid excretion in stool than the C. EJ and FJ exhibited lower excreted fiber compared to R and C, implying greater fermentation. Furthermore, the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in the cecum of FJ and EJ animals exceeded that of the C. Acetic and propionic acids were more abundant in the FJ and EJ diets, with FJ producing more butyric acid than the other groups.In conclusion, jatobá pulp maintained at normal levels of total cholesterol, LDL and HDL-associated cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and serum triglycerides, while also reducing the accumulation of hepatic lipids. Jatobá also promoted SCFA formation and fermentation, making it a valuable ingredient for preventing chronic diseases.

Lupin as a Source of Bioactive Antioxidant Compounds for Food Products

Four species of lupin (white lupin, yellow lupin, blue lupin and Andean lupin) are widely cropped thanks to the excellent nutritional composition of their seeds: high protein content (28-48 g/100 g); good lipid content (4.6-13.5 g/100 g, but up to 20.0 g/100 g in Andean lupin), especially unsaturated triacylglycerols; and richness in antioxidant compounds like carotenoids, tocols and phenolics. Particularly relevant is the amount of free phenolics, highly bioaccessible in the small intestine. However, the typical bitter and toxic alkaloids must be eliminated before lupin consumption, hindering its diffusion and affecting its nutritional value. This review summarises the results of recent research in lupin composition for the above-mentioned three classes of antioxidant compounds, both in non-debittered and debittered seeds. Additionally, the influence of technological processes to further increase their nutritional value as well as the effects of food manufacturing on antioxidant content were scrutinised. Lupin has been demonstrated to be an outstanding raw material source, superior to most crops and suitable for manufacturing foods with good antioxidant and nutritional properties. The bioaccessibility of lupin antioxidants after digestion of ready-to-eat products still emerges as a dearth in current research.

Combined Gamma Conglutin and Lupanine Treatment Exhibits In Vivo an Enhanced Antidiabetic Effect by Modulating the Liver Gene Expression Profile

Previous studies have individually shown the antidiabetic potential of gamma conglutin (Cγ) and lupanine from lupins. Until now, the influence of combining both compounds and the effective dose of the combination have not been assessed. Moreover, the resulting gene expression profile from this novel combination remains to be explored. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate different dose combinations of Cγ and lupanine by the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to identify the higher antidiabetic effect on a T2D rat model. Later, we administered the selected dose combination during a week. Lastly, we evaluated biochemical parameters and liver gene expression profile using DNA microarrays and bioinformatic analysis. We found that the combination of 28 mg/kg BW Cγ + 20 mg/kg BW lupanine significantly reduced glycemia and lipid levels. Moreover, this treatment positively influenced the expression of Pdk4, G6pc, Foxo1, Foxo3, Ppargc1a, Serpine1, Myc, Slc37a4, Irs2, and Igfbp1 genes. The biological processes associated with these genes are oxidative stress, apoptosis regulation, and glucose and fatty-acid homeostasis. For the first time, we report the beneficial in vivo effect of the combination of two functional lupin compounds. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to investigate the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the Cγ + lupanine combined treatment.

Progress of Genomics-Driven Approaches for Sustaining Underutilized Legume Crops in the Post-Genomic Era

Legume crops, belonging to the Fabaceae family, are of immense importance for sustaining global food security. Many legumes are profitable crops for smallholder farmers due to their unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and their intrinsic ability to thrive on marginal land with minimum inputs and low cultivation costs. Recent progress in genomics shows promise for future genetic gains in major grain legumes. Still it remains limited in minor legumes/underutilized legumes, including adzuki bean, cluster bean, horse gram, lathyrus, red clover, urd bean, and winged bean. In the last decade, unprecedented progress in completing genome assemblies of various legume crops and resequencing efforts of large germplasm collections has helped to identify the underlying gene(s) for various traits of breeding importance for enhancing genetic gain and contributing to developing climate-resilient cultivars. This review discusses the progress of genomic resource development, including genome-wide molecular markers, key breakthroughs in genome sequencing, genetic linkage maps, and trait mapping for facilitating yield improvement in underutilized legumes. We focus on 1) the progress in genomic-assisted breeding, 2) the role of whole-genome resequencing, pangenomes for underpinning the novel genomic variants underlying trait gene(s), 3) how adaptive traits of wild underutilized legumes could be harnessed to develop climate-resilient cultivars, 4) the progress and status of functional genomics resources, deciphering the underlying trait candidate genes with putative function in underutilized legumes 5) and prospects of novel breeding technologies, such as speed breeding, genomic selection, and genome editing. We conclude the review by discussing the scope for genomic resources developed in underutilized legumes to enhance their production and play a critical role in achieving the "zero hunger" sustainable development goal by 2030 set by the United Nations.

A Lupinus angustifolius protein hydrolysate exerts hypocholesterolemic effects in Western diet-fed ApoE-/- mice through the modulation of LDLR and PCSK9 pathways

Lupin protein hydrolysates (LPHs) are gaining attention in the food and nutraceutical industries due to their several beneficial health effects. Recently, we have shown that LPH treatment reduces liver cholesterol and triglyceride levels in hypercholesterolemic mice. The aim of this study was to elucidate the effects of LPH treatment on the molecular mechanism underlying liver cholesterol metabolism in ApoE^-/- mice fed the Western diet. After identifying the composition of the peptide within the LPH mixture and determining its ability to reduce HMGCoAR activity in vitro, its effect on the LDLR and PCSK9 pathways was measured in liver tissue from the same mice. Thus, the LPH reduced the protein levels of HMGCoAR and increased the phosphorylated inactive form of HMGCoAR and the pHMGCoAR/HMGCoAR ratio, which led to the deactivation of de novo cholesterol synthesis. Furthermore, the LPH decreased the protein levels of SREBP2, a key upstream transcription factor involved in the expression of HMGCoAR and LDLR. Consequently, LDLR protein levels decreased in the liver of LPH-treated animals. Interestingly, the LPH also increased the protein levels of pAMPK responsible for HMGCoAR phosphorylation. Furthermore, the LPH controlled the PSCK9 signal pathway by decreasing its transcription factor, the HNF1-α protein. Consequently, lower PSCK9 protein levels were found in the liver of LPH-treated mice. This is the first study elucidating the molecular mechanism at the basis of the hypocholesterolemic effects exerted by the LPH in an in vivo model. All these findings point out LPHs as a future lipid-lowering ingredient to develop new functional foods.

A Bitter-Sweet Story: Unraveling the Genes Involved in Quinolizidine Alkaloid Synthesis in Lupinus albus

Alkaloids are part of a structurally diverse group of over 21,000 cyclic nitrogen-containing secondary metabolites that are found in over 20% of plant species. Lupinus albus are naturally containing quinolizidine alkaloid (QA) legumes, with wild accessions containing up to 11% of QA in seeds. Notwithstanding their clear advantages as a natural protecting system, lupin-breeding programs have selected against QA content without proper understanding of quinolizidine alkaloid biosynthetic pathway. This review summarizes the current status in this field, with focus on the utilization of natural mutations such as the one contained in pauper locus, and more recently the development of molecular markers, which along with the advent of sequencing technology, have facilitated the identification of candidate genes located in the pauper region. New insights for future research are provided, including the utilization of differentially expressed genes located on the pauper locus, as candidates for genome editing. Identification of the main genes involved in the biosynthesis of QA will enable precision breeding of low-alkaloid, high nutrition white lupin. This is important as plant based high quality protein for food and feed is an essential for sustainable agricultural productivity.

Lupin-Derived Bioactive Peptides: Intestinal Transport, Bioavailability and Health Benefits

There is a renewed interest on the reliance of food-based bioactive compounds as sources of nutritive factors and health-beneficial chemical compounds. Among these food components, several proteins from foods have been shown to promote health and wellness as seen in proteins such as α/γ-conglutins from the seeds of Lupinus species (Lupin), a genus of leguminous plant that are widely used in traditional medicine for treating chronic diseases. Lupin-derived peptides (LDPs) are increasingly being explored and they have been shown to possess multifunctional health improving properties. This paper discusses the intestinal transport, bioavailability and biological activities of LDPs, focusing on molecular mechanisms of action as reported in in vitro, cell culture, animal and human studies. The potentials of several LDPs to demonstrate multitarget mechanism of regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism, chemo- and osteoprotective properties, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities position LDPs as good candidates for nutraceutical development for the prevention and management of medical conditions whose etiology are multifactorial.

Lupinus angustifolius Protein Hydrolysates Reduce Abdominal Adiposity and Ameliorate Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) in Western Diet Fed-ApoE-/- Mice

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is the most important cause of liver disease worldwide. It is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver and is closely associated with abdominal obesity. In addition, oxidative stress and inflammation are significant features involved in MAFLD. Recently, our group demonstrated that lupin protein hydrolysates (LPHs) had lipid lowering, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Sixty male mice fed with a Western diet were intragastrically treated with LPHs (or vehicle) for 12 weeks. Liver and adipose tissue lipid accumulation and hepatic inflammatory and oxidant status were evaluated. A significant decrease in steatosis was observed in LPHs-treated mice, which presented a decreased gene expression of CD36 and LDL-R, crucial markers in MAFLD. In addition, LPHs increased the hepatic total antioxidant capacity and reduced the hepatic inflammatory status. Moreover, LPHs-treated mice showed a significant reduction in abdominal adiposity. This is the first study to show that the supplementation with LPHs markedly ameliorates the generation of the steatotic liver caused by the intake of a Western diet and reduces abdominal obesity in ApoE^−/− mice. Future clinical trials should shed light on the effects of LPHs on MAFLD.

Towards Development, Maintenance, and Standardized Phenotypic Characterization of Single-Seed-Descent Genetic Resources for Lupins

Well-characterized genetic resources are fundamental to maintain and provide the various genotypes for pre-breeding programs for the production of new cultivars (e.g., wild relatives, unimproved material, landraces). The aim of the current article is to provide protocols for the characterization of the genetic resources of two lupin crop species: the European Lupinus albus and the American Lupinus mutabilis. Intelligent nested collections of lupins derived from homozygous lines (single-seed descent) are being developed, established, and exploited using cutting-edge approaches for genotyping, phenotyping, data management, and data analysis within the INCREASE project (EU Horizon 2020). This will allow us to predict the phenotypic performance of genotyped lines, and will further boost research and development in lupins. Lupins stand out due to their high-quality seed protein (∼40% of seed dry weight) and other primary components in the seeds, which include fatty acids, dietary fiber, and minerals. The potential of lupins as a crop is highlighted by the multiple benefits of plant-based food in terms of food security, nutrition, human health, and sustainable production. The use of lupins in foods, along with other well-studied and widely used food legumes, will also provide a greatly diversified plant-based food palette to meet the Global Goals for Sustainable Development to improve people's lives by 2030. © 2021 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Lupin seed phenotypic descriptors Basic Protocol 2: Lupin seed imaging Basic Protocol 3: Standardized phenotypic characterization of lupin genetic resources grown towards primary seed increase (development of single-seed descent genetic resources).

Legumes as Functional Food for Cardiovascular Disease

Legumes are an essential food source worldwide. Their high-quality proteins, complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and relatively low-fat content make these an important functional food. Known to possess a multitude of health benefits, legume consumption is associated with the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Legume crude protein isolates and purified peptides possess many cardiopreventive properties. Here, we review selected economically valued legumes, their taxonomy and distribution, biochemical composition, and their protein components and the mechanism(s) of action associated with cardiovascular health. Most of the legume protein studies had shown upregulation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor leading to increased binding and uptake, in effect significantly reducing total lipid levels in the blood serum and liver. This is followed by decreased biosynthesis of cholesterol and fatty acids. To understand the relationship of identified genes from legume studies, we performed gene network analysis, pathway, and gene ontology (GO) enrichment. Results showed that the genes were functionally interrelated while enrichment and pathway analysis revealed involvement in lipid transport, fatty acid and triglyceride metabolic processes, and regulatory processes. This review is the first attempt to collate all known mechanisms of action of legume proteins associated with cardiovascular health. This also provides a snapshot of possible targets leading to systems-level approaches to further investigate the cardiometabolic potentials of legumes.

Lupin protein isolate improves insulin sensitivity and steatohepatitis in vivo and modulates the expression of the Fasn, Gys2, and Gsk3b genes

Although studies on lupin protein isolate (LPI) have indicated the presence of a preventive effect on insulin resistance (IR) and lipid disturbances, their influence on established pathological traits has received little attention. Here, we evaluated the in vivo effects of LPI on IR and steatohepatitis as well as its influence on genes involved in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. We first induced IR and steatohepatitis in rats by maintaining them on a high-fat diet for 5 weeks. Thereafter, we administered LPI to the rats daily for 3 weeks. LPI improved insulin sensitivity (AUC: 6,777 ± 232 vs. 4,971 ± 379, p < .05, pre- vs. post-treatment values) and reduced glucose and triglyceride levels by one-third. In addition, LPI-treated rats exhibited attenuated steatohepatitis. At the molecular level, LPI treatment reduced liver Fasn gene expression substantially but increased Gys2 and Gsk3b levels. We concluded that the hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities of LPI may be caused by reduced liver lipogenesis and modulation of insulin sensitization mechanisms.

Effect of the acute and chronic administration of Lupinus albus β-conglutin on glycaemia, circulating cholesterol, and genes potentially involved

Constituents of lupin seeds, like γ-conglutin and lupanine, have gained attention as potential complementary treatments for dysglycaemia management. Notwithstanding, the effect of other lupin components on carbohydrate metabolism, including β-conglutin protein, has received little attention. Here, we investigated the influence of the acute and chronic administration of β-conglutin on glycaemia modulation in normal and streptozotocin induced-to-diabetes rats. We analysed the liver transcriptome modulation exerted by β-conglutin in diabetes-induced rats using DNA microarrays to scout for potential molecular targets and pathways involved in this biological response. The acute administration of β-conglutin reduced the incremental area under the curve of glycaemia in normal and diabetes-induced animals. In a seven-day study with diabetic animals, glycaemia increased significantly in non-treated animals but remained unchanged in animals treated with a daily dose of β-conglutin. Total cholesterol was significantly lower at the end of the experimental period (-21.8 %, p = 0.039). The microarray and gene ontology analyses revealed several targets and pathways potentially modulated by β-conglutin treatment, including a possible down-regulation of Jun kinase activity. Moreover, our data indicate that targets related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and estrogenic activity might orchestrate these metabolic effects. In conclusion, our findings show that β-conglutin may help manage postprandial glycaemia and reduce cholesterol levels under the dysglycaemia stage. We identified and proposed new potential molecular targets for further research related to the mechanism of action of β-conglutin.

Techno-Functional, Nutritional and Environmental Performance of Protein Isolates from Blue Lupin and White Lupin

Similarly prepared protein isolates from blue lupin (Lupinus angustifolius) and white lupin (L. albus) were assessed in relation to their composition, functional properties, nutritional attributes and environmental impacts. Blue lupin protein isolate (BLPI) and white lupin protein isolate (WLPI) were found to be quite similar in composition, although differences in the electrophoretic protein profiles were apparent. Both lupin protein isolates (LPIs) had good protein solubility (76.9% for BLPI and 69.8% for WLPI at pH 7) and foaming properties. However, a remarkable difference in heat gelation performance was observed between BLPI and WLPI. WLPI had a minimum gelling concentration of 7% protein, whereas BLPI required 23% protein in order to form a gel. WLPI also resulted in stronger gels over a range of concentrations compared to BLPI. Nutritional properties of both LPIs were similar, with no significant differences in in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD), and both had very low trypsin inhibitor activity (TIA) and fermentable oligo-, di- and monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAP) content. The amino acid profiles of both LPIs were also similar, with sulfur-containing amino acids (SAAs) being the limiting amino acid in each case. Environmental impacts revealed by the life cycle assessment (LCA) were almost identical for BLPI and WLPI, and in most categories the LPIs demonstrated considerably better performance per kg protein when compared to cow's whole milk powder.

Effect of Ultrasound Application on Protein Yield and Fate of Alkaloids during Lupin Alkaline Extraction Process

The objective of this work is to elucidate the fate of quinolizidine alkaloids (QA) during the lupin protein extraction process assisted with ultrasound and the evaluation of the nutritional and functional properties of the protein fraction. Proximal characterization, concentration of anti-nutritional compounds, amino acid profile and protein solubility profile of flours from three lupin species were (L. albus, L. angustifolius and L. mutabilis) assessed. The result showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) in protein concentration, fat, total alkaloids and particle size between the three species flours. Based on these parameters, the most different Lupinus species (L. mutabilis and L. angustifolius) were chosen to study the behavior of the protein fraction in terms of functionality, composition and resistance to thermal treatments. The results obtained for L. mutabilis described the ultrasound effect as beneficial for protein yield (14% more than control), QA reduction from bagasse (81% less than control) and protein isolate production (50% less than control). On the other hand, L. angustifolius was more resistant to the ultrasound effect with no significant difference between treatments (10 and 15 min) and control but with the lower toxicity and better amino acid score. These results will be useful to design processes to assist in the objective of meeting the future protein demand of the population.

High-quality genome sequence of white lupin provides insight into soil exploration and seed quality

White lupin (Lupinus albus L.) is an annual crop cultivated for its protein-rich seeds. It is adapted to poor soils due to the production of cluster roots, which are made of dozens of determinate lateral roots that drastically improve soil exploration and nutrient acquisition (mostly phosphate). Using long-read sequencing technologies, we provide a high-quality genome sequence of a cultivated accession of white lupin (2n = 50, 451 Mb), as well as de novo assemblies of a landrace and a wild relative. We describe a modern accession displaying increased soil exploration capacity through early establishment of lateral and cluster roots. We also show how seed quality may have been impacted by domestication in term of protein profiles and alkaloid content. The availability of a high-quality genome assembly together with companion genomic and transcriptomic resources will enable the development of modern breeding strategies to increase and stabilize white lupin yield.

White lupin is an annual crop cultivated for protein rich seeds and can produce cluster roots for efficient phosphate acquisition. Here, the authors generate high quality genome assemblies of a cultivated accession, a landrace, and a wild relative and provides insight into soil exploration and seed quality.

Chemical and Nutritional Evaluation of Protein-Rich Ingredients Obtained through a Technological Process from Yellow Lupin Seeds (Lupinus luteus)

In recent years, interest in plant-based proteins has been rising due to ethical and sustainability issues. In this context, the production of protein concentrates and isolates from new plant sources have increased enormously because of their nutritional and techno-functional properties. Therefore, this work describes a pilot process for obtaining protein-rich ingredients from a yellow lupin variety (Lupinus luteus) developed by the Agriaquaculture Nutritional Genomic Center (CGNA). A protein alkaline solubilisation followed by isoelectric precipitation was used as a method for obtaining a protein concentrate (LPC) and isolate (LPI) with 75 and 95% protein, respectively. The changes in the protein quality and chemical composition during the protein concentration process from lupin flour were evaluated. Thus, nutritional parameters such as the amino acids (AAs) profile, essential amino acid index (EAAI), chemical score (CS), the protein efficiency ratio (PER), and digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS) were determined to evaluate the nutritional quality of LPC and LPI. The facile and scalable protein isolation method without a defatting process proposed in this study showed a great protein separation efficiency (PSE), while the amino acids profile was not affected during both the concentration as well as the isolation of proteins. In addition, SDS-PAGE showed that both LPC and LPI mainly contained the high-molecular-weight proteins α and β-conglutins. Both LPC and LPI had a balanced amino acids profile, and arginine was the most predominant amino acid. These results are useful for increasing the use of lupin based-protein ingredients as a potential functional ingredient in the food industry.

Retention of Primary Bile Acids by Lupin Cell Wall Polysaccharides Under In Vitro Digestion Conditions

Interference of dietary fibres with the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids is proposed as a mechanism for lowering cholesterol. We investigated how lupin hull and cotyledon dietary fibres interact with primary bile acids using an in vitro model under simulated upper gastrointestinal conditions. Cell wall polysaccharides were isolated and extracted to separate pectin-like, hemicellulosic, and lignocellulosic structures. Lupin hull consisted mainly of structural components rich in cellulose. The viscosity of the in vitro digesta of lupin hull was low, showing predominantly liquid-like viscoelastic properties. On the other hand, lupin cotyledon fibre retarded bile acid release due to increased viscosity of the in vitro digesta, which was linked with high contents of pectic polymers forming an entangled network. Molecular interactions with bile acids were not measured for the hull but for the cotyledon, as follows: A total of 1.29&nbsp;µmol/100&nbsp;mg&nbsp;DM of chenodesoxycholic acids were adsorbed. Molecular interactions of cholic and chenodesoxycholic acids were evident for lignin reference material but did not account for the adsorption of the lupin cotyledon. Furthermore, none of the isolated and fractionated cell wall materials showed a significant adsorptive capacity, thus disproving a major role of lupin cell wall polysaccharides in bile acid adsorption.

Cholesterol-Lowering and Liver-Protective Effects of Cooked and Germinated Mung Beans (Vigna radiata L.)

We investigated the hypocholesterolemic and liver-protective effects of cooked and germinated whole mung beans. Hamsters were fed for 28 days on diets rich in saturated fatty acids and cholesterol, differing only in protein source (20%): casein, cooked whole mung bean, and germinated mung bean. After 28 days, we found reduced plasma concentrations of total cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol, increased faecal cholesterol excretion, and reduced levels of asparagine aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase enzymes in the liver. Reduction in hepatic lipid deposition was observed between each of the mung bean groups relative to the casein group. In addition, the animals of the geminated mung bean group showed a lack of inflammatory infiltrate and better vascularisation of the hepatic tissue. Results from this study show significant hypocholesterolemic and liver-protective properties of the mung bean, which are further enhanced after germination.

Molecular actions of hypocholesterolaemic compounds from edible mushrooms

Edible mushrooms contain bioactive compounds able to modulate the expression of genes related to absorption, biosynthesis and transport of cholesterol and regulation of its homeostasis.

Lupinus albus Conglutin Gamma Modifies the Gene Expressions of Enzymes Involved in Glucose Hepatic Production In Vivo

Lupinus albus seeds contain conglutin gamma (Cγ) protein, which exerts a hypoglycemic effect and positively modifies proteins involved in glucose homeostasis. Cγ could potentially be used to manage patients with impaired glucose metabolism, but there remains a need to evaluate its effects on hepatic glucose production. The present study aimed to analyze G6pc, Fbp1, and Pck1 gene expressions in two experimental animal models of impaired glucose metabolism. We also evaluated hepatic and renal tissue integrity following Cγ treatment. To generate an insulin resistance model, male Wistar rats were provided 30% sucrose solution ad libitum for 20 weeks. To generate a type 2 diabetes model (STZ), five-day-old rats were intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin (150 mg/kg). Each animal model was randomized into three subgroups that received the following oral treatments daily for one week: 0.9% w/v NaCl (vehicle; IR-Ctrl and STZ-Ctrl); metformin 300 mg/kg (IR-Met and STZ-Met); and Cγ 150 mg/kg (IR-Cγ and STZ-Cγ). Biochemical parameters were assessed pre- and post-treatment using colorimetric or enzymatic methods. We also performed histological analysis of hepatic and renal tissue. G6pc, Fbp1, and Pck1 gene expressions were quantified using real-time PCR. No histological changes were observed in any group. Post-treatment G6pc gene expression was decreased in the IR-Cγ and STZ-Cγ groups. Post-treatment Fbp1 and Pck1 gene expressions were reduced in the IR-Cγ group but increased in STZ-Cγ animals. Overall, these findings suggest that Cγ is involved in reducing hepatic glucose production, mainly through G6pc inhibition in impaired glucose metabolism disorders.

Traditional Persian Medicine and management of metabolic dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Its cause is unknown and it remains the most enigmatic of reproductive disorders. The extant written documents of Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM) - with holistic approaches towards human health - contain remedies used for centuries. Before further experimental research on any of these treatments, it is appropriate to study current related scientific evidence on their possible pharmacological actions. This work aims to study PCOS and its treatments in TPM. To collect data from medieval medicinal texts, six of the most famous manuscripts of Persian medicine were studied. Medicinal treatments for a problem similar to PCOS were searched for in these books. The plants were listed and their authentications were confirmed in accordance with botanical books. PubMed and ScienceDirect databases were searched for related mechanisms of action or pharmacological activities of the medicinal plants reported. From numerous articles, the current work tried to cite the latest publications with regard to each reported plant and PCOS-related mechanisms of action. We studied herbal treatments recommended by ancient Persians to treat a condition called Habs-e-tams, which had the same symptoms of PCOS. It could be concluded that ancient physicians not only wanted to treat the irregular menstrual cycle-which is the most obvious symptom of PCOS-but also their treatment options were aimed at ameliorating the related underlying metabolic dysfunctions. The recommended herbs, which have the most scientific proof for their related actions, can be studied further in experimental analyses.

Biochemical and mineral blood indices in fattening pigs fed mixtures containing yellow lupine (Lupinus luteus)

Thirty crossbred pigs [♀ (Landrace x Yorkshire) x ♂ Duroc] were fattened in a three-stage fattening period. Soybean extraction meal (Group K) or soybean extraction meal with seeds of yellow lupine in the amount of 7.5% (Group D1) or 15% (Group D2) were used as a source of protein in their diet. The animals were slaughtered after reaching a body weight of about 117.5 kg. Blood samples were collected from all pigs at this time. Activity of ALP, AST and ALT and the level of TP, GLU, CHOL, HDL, TG, CREA, UREA, Ca, P, Mg, and Fe were determined in order to assess the impact of the dietary factor on the homeostasis and health of the animals. The values of all biochemical and mineral blood indicators were lower in the experimental groups (D1 and D2) than in the control. Most of these differences were statistically significant (P≤0.05 and P≤0.01). The values of the characteristics were within the reference limits for the species. The dietary factor had no negative effect on homeostasis in the animals.

Germinated and Ungerminated Seeds Extract from Two Lupinus Species: Biological Compounds Characterization and In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluations

In recent years, nutraceuticals attracted a great amount of attention in the biomedical research due to their significant contribution as natural agents for prevention of various health issues. Ethanolic extracts from the ungerminated and germinated seeds of Lupinus albus L. and Lupinus angustifolius L. were analyzed for the content in isoflavones (genistein) and cinnamic acid derivatives. Additionally, the extracts were evaluated for antimicrobial, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory properties, using in vitro and in vivo tests. Germination proved to be a method of choice in increasing the amount of genistein and cinnamic acid derivatives in both Lupinus albus L. and Lupinus angustifolius L. seeds. Biological evaluation of all vegetal extracts revealed a weak therapeutic potential for both ungerminated and germinated seeds.

Hypocholesterolaemic Activity of Lupin Peptides: Investigation on the Crosstalk between Human Enterocytes and Hepatocytes Using a Co-Culture System Including Caco-2 and HepG2 Cells

Literature indicates that peptic and tryptic peptides derived from the enzymatic hydrolysis of lupin protein are able to modulate cholesterol metabolism in human hepatic HepG2 cells and that part of these peptides are absorbed in a small intestine model based on differentiated human Caco-2 cells. In this paper, a co-culture system, including Caco-2 and HepG2 cells, was investigated with two objectives: (a) to verify whether cholesterol metabolism in HepG2 cells was modified by the peptides absorption through Caco-2 cells; (b) to investigate how lupin peptides influence cholesterol metabolism in Caco-2 cells. The experiments showed that the absorbed peptides, not only maintained their bioactivity on HepG2 cells, but that this activity was improved by the crosstalk of the two cells systems in co-culture. In addition, lupin peptides showed a positive influence on cholesterol metabolism in Caco-2 cells, decreasing the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) secretion.

Proteomics for exploiting diversity of lupin seed storage proteins and their use as nutraceuticals for health and welfare

Lupins have a variety of both traditional and modern uses. In the last decade, reports assessing the benefits of lupin seed proteins have proliferated and, nowadays, the pharmaceutical industry is interested in lupin proteins for human health. Modern genomics and proteomics have hugely contributed to describing the diversity of lupin storage genes and, above all, proteins. Most of these studies have been centered on few edible lupin species. However, Lupinus genus comprises hundreds of species spread throughout the Old and New Worlds, and these resources have been scarcely explored and exploited. We present here a detailed review of the literature on the potential of lupin seed proteins as nutraceuticals, and the use of -omic tools to analyze seed storage polypeptides in main edible lupins and their diversity at the Lupinus inter- and intra-species level. In this sense, proteomics, more than any other, has been a key approach. Proteomics has shown that lupin seed protein diversity, where post-translational modifications yield a large number of peptide variants with a potential concern in bioactivity, goes far beyond gene diversity. The future extended use of second and third generation proteomics should definitely help to go deeper into coverage and characterization of lupin seed proteome.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Some important topics concerning storage proteins from lupin seeds are presented and analyzed in an integrated way in this review. Proteomic approaches have been essential in characterizing lupin seed protein diversity, which goes far beyond gene diversity since the protein level adds to the latter differential proteolytic cleavage of conglutin pro-proteins and a diverse array of glycosylation forms and sites. Proteomics has also proved helpful for screening and studying Lupinus germplasm with the future aim of exploiting and improving food production, quality, and nutritional values.

The beneficial roles of Lupineus luteus and lifestyle changes in management of metabolic syndrome: A case study

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors including obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia and hyperuricemia. Here, we report a 43-year-old man with obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, hyperuricemia and mild liver dysfunctions. Lupid (Lupineus luteus) and therapeutic lifestyle change (TLC) were suggested as therapeutic intervention for the present case for 6 months. The body weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), triacylglycerol (TAG), uric acid (UA) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were markedly decreased by 26.85%, 26.95%, 13%, 53.84%, 57.84%, 36.14%, 47.58% and 61.62% respectively, compared to those at baselines. However, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) value was markedly increased by 30.77%. The present results concluded that administration of lupin with TLC is good intervention for prevention and treatment of MetS.

Functional and physicochemical properties of a protein isolate from AluProt-CGNA: A novel protein-rich lupin variety (Lupinus luteus)

This study describes the isolation of proteins from the novel lupin variety AluProt-CGNA (Lupinus luteus) and the influence of pH and NaCl on their functional properties. AluProt-CGNA variety showed to have a great protein content in dehulled seeds (60.60g protein/100g, dry matter), which is higher than soybean and other lupin varieties. A lupin protein isolate (97.54g protein/100g) from AluProt-CGNA, LPIA, was prepared from lupin flour by alkali solubilization and isoelectric precipitation. The solubility profile of the LPIA was affected by pH, where the minimal values were observed at pH values close to its isoelectric point range (pH4-5). The highest values of water absorption capacity (1.71cm³H₂O/g protein), oil absorption capacity (1.43g trapped oil/g protein), emulsifying capacity (61.94%), emulsion stability (96.43%), foaming capacity (114.29%), foam stability (65.69%) and least gelation concentration (20g/100cm³) were observed at pH values lower and higher than its isoelectric point. In the presence of 100mM of NaCl, their functional properties were improved. SDS-PAGE showed that LPIA mainly contained high molecular weight proteins (α and β-conglutin). These results are useful for increasing the utilization of this protein isolate as a potential functional ingredient in food industry.

Isolated Conglutin γ from Lupin, but not Phytate, Lowers Serum Cholesterol Without Influencing Vascular Lesion Development in the ApoE-deficient Mouse Model

Conglutin γ and phytate are considered as potential biofunctional compounds of lupin protein isolate, but their impact on vascular health is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effect of conglutin γ and phytate, respectively, on circulating levels of sterols, markers of cholesterol biosynthesis and minerals, and on the development and progression of aortic lesions in apoE-deficient mice. To this end, mice were fed a western diet with either casein (200 g/kg; served as a control), conglutin γ from L. angustifolius (200 g/kg) or casein (200 g/kg) supplemented with phytate (5 g/kg) for 16 weeks. Here we found that conglutin γ but not phytate was capable of reducing the circulating concentration of cholesterol. Plasma levels of desmosterol and lathosterol as markers of the cholesterol synthesis were not affected, and 7-dehydrocholesterol was even higher in mice fed conglutin γ than in mice fed casein or casein + phytate. All mice developed pronounced aortic lesions, but histological characterization of plaque area and composition showed no differences between the three groups of mice. Conclusively, conglutin γ exerts cholesterol-lowering effects but appears to have no anti-atherosclerotic properties in the apoE-deficient mice. Phytate neither affected plasma cholesterol nor aortic lesion development.

Lupin peptides lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol through an up-regulation of the LDL receptor/sterol regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP2) pathway at HepG2 cell line

Previous experiments in suitable animal models and in mild hypercholesterolemic individuals have shown that the consumption of lupin proteins may be useful for controlling total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. With the objective of providing evidence that peptides deriving from the hydrolysis of lupin proteins may be responsible of the observed activities and for investigating the mechanism of action, HepG2 cells were treated with lupin peptides obtained by either pepsin (P) or trypsin (T) hydrolysis, and molecular and functional investigations were performed on the LDL receptor/SREBP2 pathway. For the first time, this paper provides experimental evidence that lupin peptides are able to interfere with the HMGCoAR activity, up-regulating the LDL receptor (136 and 84% vs the control for P and T peptides, respectively, at 1 mg/mL) and SREBP2 proteins (148 and 73% vs the control for P and T peptides, respectively, at 1 mg/mL) via the activation of PI3K/Akt/GSK3β pathways and increasing the LDL uptake at HepG2 cell line (40 and 50% vs the control for P and T peptides, respectively, at 1 mg/mL). These results may be useful in explaining the activities observed in vivo in animals and humans treated with lupin protein.

Peptides from cowpea present antioxidant activity, inhibit cholesterol synthesis and its solubilisation into micelles

In previous studies, it was reported that the protein isolated from the cowpea interferes favourably in lipid metabolism, and reduces cholesterol synthesis. The present study investigated the role of cowpea peptide fractions in the micellar solubilisation of cholesterol, in the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) activity, and in the in vitro antioxidant capacity, considering the effects of thermal processing. The protein was isolated from the raw and cooked beans and digested to simulate human digestion. The peptides from the protein isolate of raw bean with molecular mass lower than 3kDa reduced 89% of the HMGCR enzymatic reaction velocity. The cooked cowpeas were more effective in inhibiting the micellar solubility of cholesterol than the raw ones but not the antioxidant activity. This is the first report that cowpea peptides inhibit cholesterol homeostasis in vitro in two distinct routes, and act as an antioxidant.

Fiber, protein, and lupin-enriched foods: role for improving cardiovascular health

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death globally (World Health Organisation, 2011). Many of the risk factors for CVD are modifiable, including overweight and obesity. Numerous strategies have been proposed to fight CVD, with a special focus being placed on dietary interventions for weight management. The literature suggests that two nutrients, fiber and protein, may play significant roles in weight control and hence cardiovascular health. Increasing both protein and fiber in the diet can be difficult because popular low-carbohydrate and high-protein diets tend to have considerably low-fiber intakes (Slavin, 2005). One approach to obtain both is to develop functional foods using unique ingredients. Lupin flour is a novel food ingredient derived from the endosperm of lupin. It contains 40-45% protein, 25-30% fiber, and negligible sugar and starch (Petterson and Crosbie, 1990). Research conducted to date reveals that lupin-enriched foods, which are naturally high in protein and fiber, may have a significant effect on CVD risk factors. This review explores whether there is a role for fiber-, protein-, and lupin-enriched foods in improving cardiovascular health.