Oat (Avena sativa L.) and amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) meals positively affect plasma lipid profile in rats fed cholesterol-containing diets

High fiber content snack bars made with maize biomass flour, rice flakes and oat flakes: Physicochemical properties and sensory acceptance

The aim of this study was to assess physicochemical properties and sensory acceptance of snack bars (SBs) made with different levels of maize biomass flour (MBF), rice flakes (RF) and oat flakes (OF). A simplex design was used, with 6 mixtures and 2 repetitions. The different levels of MBF, RF and OF used in the SBs influenced all physicochemical properties evaluated (moisture, water activity, specific volume, hardness and instrumental color). SB4 (containing 14.85:5:10.85% of MBF:RF:OF, respectively) and SB6 (containing 14:8:8% of MBF:RF:OF, respectively) were the closest to the desirable formulation according to the desirability diagram for the physicochemical properties of the SBs. SB1 (containing 20:5:5% of MBF:RF:OF, respectively) was also selected for sensory analysis as it showed the highest MBF content among all formulations. None SBs presented a microbiological risk. The SB6 presented the highest sensory acceptance and purchase intent, highlighting its rich content of dietary fiber (16.45 ± 0.1 g/100 g) and protein (7.04 ± 0.02 g/100 g) besides its low-calorie characteristic (1421.22 kJ/100 g/339.68 kcal/100 g). The development of SBs using MBF is feasible in relation to their physicochemical and sensory properties, which can stimulate the sustainable production of new goods from this by-product.

Blueberry Juice Attenuates Pulmonary Fibrosis via Blocking the TGF-β1/Smad Signaling Pathway

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, fatal, and chronic lung disease, lacking a validated and effective therapy. Blueberry has demonstrated multiple pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate whether blueberry juice (BBJ) could ameliorate IPF. Experiments in vitro revealed that BBJ could significantly reduce the expressions of TGF-β1 modulated fibrotic protein, which were involved in the cascade of fibrosis in NIH/3T3 cells and human pulmonary fibroblasts. In addition, for rat primary lung fibroblasts (RPLFs), BBJ promoted the cell apoptosis along with reducing the expressions of α-SMA, vimentin, and collagen I, while increasing the E-cadherin level. Furthermore, BBJ could reverse epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotypic changes and inhibit cell migration, along with inducing the upregulation of E-cadherin in A549 cells. Compared with the vehicle group, BBJ treatment alleviated fibrotic pathological changes and collagen deposition in both bleomycin-induced prevention and treatment pulmonary fibrosis models. In fibrotic lung tissues, BBJ remarkably suppressed the expressions of collagen I, α-SMA, and vimentin and improved E-cadherin, which may be related to its inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad pathway and anti-inflammation efficacy. Taken together, these findings comprehensively proved that BBJ could effectively prevent and attenuate idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis via suppressing EMT and the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.

Amaranthus hypochondriacus L. as a Sustainable Source of Nutrients and Bioactive Compounds for Animal Feeding

With the aim to explore the use of A. hypochondriacus seeds for animal feeding, the agronomic traits, nutrients, and bioactive compounds of four accessions with different origin (India, Nebraska, Iowa, and Pennsylvania) grown in a Mediterranean environment were studied. Proximate composition was determined using the official methods of analyses, fatty acid profile by gas chromatography, total phenolic content (TPC) and the scavenging activity (DPPH• and ABTS•+) by colorimetric method. A one-way ANOVA model was performed to determine the differences between accessions. The four A. hypochondriacus accessions showed interesting seed yield results. No significant differences were observed for crude protein and crude fiber; the oil content showed the significant highest values in the seeds from Nebraska and Pennsylvania, but their nutritional characteristics were significantly different. The accession from Nebraska showed the highest oleic and linoleic acid levels, the highest values of polyunsaturated fatty acids, the best atherogenic and thrombogenic indices and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolaemic ratio, and the highest TPC content. The accession from Pennsylvania showed the highest antioxidant activity and lowest peroxidation index. On the whole, A. hypochondriacus seeds can be used as pseudo-cereal to balance the animal diet and the accession should be chosen according to the different metabolic pathways of unsaturated fatty acids in ruminant and monogastric animals.

The Probable Use of Genus amaranthus as Feed Material for Monogastric Animals

This review presents, discusses, and provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential use of amaranth as feed for monogastric animals. Amaranth is an ancient nutritious crop that has been cultivated for multiple purposes. In America, Asia, and Africa, the leaves of amaranth species are used as vegetables. The change in climatic conditions globally has resulted in shortages of rainfall, unpredictable weather, and lack of inputs such as fertilizer. This has led to scarcity of protein sources in the market and instability in prices which makes it necessary to consider alternative ingredients in poultry, pigs, fish, and rabbits feed formulation. Amaranth is rich in fiber, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and phenolic compounds which have some health benefits in animals and can be used to improve productivity. It also contains anti-nutritional factors which can be reduced by several processing methods. Moreover, its use in monogastric nutrition is useful because amaranth has shown to improve monogastric productivity without having any adverse effect on animals' productivity. Thus, from this review, it can be concluded that amaranth leaves and grains can be used successfully in monogastric animals though different processing methods which might need to be employed in order to reduce anti-nutritional factors before use in animals.

Productive and Qualitative Traits of Amaranthus Cruentus L.: An Unconventional Healthy Ingredient in Animal Feed

Agronomic traits, oil content, fatty acid composition, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content were studied on eight A. cruentus accessions cultivated in Southern Italy. A one-way ANOVA model was performed to compare accessions and the Principal Components Analysis was applied to identify patterns in our dataset and highlight similarities and differences. A. cruentus showed valuable seed yield (0.27 kg/m2, on average) comparable to the main tradition cereals used for animal feeding. Seed-oil composition showed significant differences among the accessions. Data showed a higher lipid content than most cereal grains (from 5.6 to 7.3%). Approximately 60% of fatty acids were unsaturated; linoleic fatty acid ranged from 19 to 34%, oleic acid from 29 to 36%, and alfa-linolenic fatty acid from 0.3 to 0.5%, respectively. The saturated/unsaturated fatty acid ratio ranged from 0.5 to 0.8, the hypocholesterolemic:hypercholesterolaemic ratio from 1.7 to 2.7, the Atherogenic Index from 0.38 to 0.66, the Thrombogenic Index from 0.85 to 1.48, the total phenolic content from 0.14 to 0.36 mg/g seeds, and the antioxidant activity (DPPH•) from 0.30 to 0.50. The studied seed-oil composition evidenced A. cruentus as a healthy ingredient for animal feed and consequently, as a possible substitute for traditional cereals. Accessions from Mexico and Arizona emerged for their high qualitative traits.

Polyphenols in amaranth (A. manteggazianus) flour and protein isolate: Interaction with other components and effect of the gastrointestinal digestion

In this work, there were analysed the interaction between phenolics present in amaranth flour (F) and amaranth protein isolate (I) with other components, as well as the effect of the gastrointestinal digestion on them (Fd and Id). Extractions were performed under different conditions (temperature, acid, organic solvent, alkali). Methanol/water extracts (25 °C and 80 °C) from F showed the presence of isoquercetin/rutin, quercetin, kaempferol and two unidentified peaks (II and III). In the presence of acid (much more evident at 80 °C), the extraction of some components increased: catechin, 4-hydroxibenzoic acid, isoquercetin/rutin, II, III. When methanol/acetone/water extraction was performed, p-coumaric acid and a new unidentified peak (IV) were observed. About 15% of the total phenol -namely; p-coumaric, rutin/isoquercetin, and kaempferol- were linked to the protein fraction. After the proteins were isolated (I), the amount of some of the compounds which were originally present in a soluble form (e. g. catechin) and in the protein-bound fraction were decreased. Simulated gastrointestinal digestion of flour released some phenolics (catechin, phenolic acids) that were ligated to proteins, and they significantly incremented the ORAC and ABTS activity of most of the extracts. Isoquercetin/rutin, quercetin and kaempferol remained after digestion. Extracts from the digested protein isolate presented differences in the composition and lower ORAC and/or ABTS activities for some of them. The study of the effect of the simulated gastrointestinal digestion process on bioaccessibility and on antioxidant activity (an aspect that, to our knowledge, has not been previously studied on amaranth polyphenols) yielded promising results, which suggest that amaranth flour is a potential antioxidant functional ingredient.

Hypolipidemic and Hypoglycaemic Effect of Wholemeal Bread with Amaranth (Amaranthus dubius Mart. ex Thell.) on Sprague Dawley Rats

The effect of consuming breads made with wheat flour and Amaranth (Amaranthus dubius Mart. ex Thell.) wholemeal flour on Sprague Dawley rats with hyperlipidaemia and hyperglycaemia induced through feeding was studied. Four diets were provided: control (CD: Ratarina^®), commercial bread (CBD), bread with 100 g·kg⁻¹ (ABD10) and 200 g·kg⁻¹ (ABD20) amaranth flour. Zoometric and blood chemistry parameters were measured before and after consuming the diets. A completely random factorial design of 2 × 4 × 2 was used. The factors were blood lipids and glucose level (normal, N and elevated, E), diet (CD, CBD, ABD10 and ABD20) and sex (female, F and male, M). The rats consuming ABD10 and ABD20 diets presented the lowest glucose values, although with no differences (p > 0.05) between the groups of elevated blood lipids and glucose rats (E). Triglyceride concentrations decreased in ABD10 and ABD20 treatments in comparison with CD, elevated blood lipids and glucose (E) rats, while ABD10 rats showed lower total cholesterol level than normal (N) rats. The high-density lipoprotein cholesterol values increased in the ABD10 and ABD20 groups (p < 0.05), while it did lower for very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and cardiac risk index (p < 0.05). In ABD10 and ABD20 treatments, the abdominal circumference decreased in both sexes (p < 0.05) between weeks 23 and 31. In conclusion, consumption of bread with amaranth improved lipid profiles of rats and could help to prevent metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.

Amaranth as a potential dietary adjunct of lifestyle modification to improve cardiovascular risk profile

The aim of this review was to summarize data regarding amaranth as a potential component of lifestyle modification to improve cardiovascular risk profiles by modifying cardiovascular risk factors such as cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension. PubMed was searched for appropriate articles. The main inclusion criteria for articles were as follows: interventions with amaranth; conducted in humans or animals or in vitro; and reported serum lipids and lipoprotein levels, and antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and antioxidant abilities. The outcome measures were changes in serum lipids and the presence of antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and antioxidant activity. A total of 33 articles were included herein. Regarding hypolipidemic activity, most studies investigated the effect of intervention with amaranth in animals, and fewer studies were performed in humans. Most studies in animal models demonstrated the ability of amaranth to decrease total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Pilot studies in humans were not convincing regarding amaranth's lipid-lowering activity. Based on this search, it is not clear which constituents are potentially responsible for the hypocholesterolemic effect of amaranth. Some authors tend to think that squalene can play a role in this effect, whereas others suggest that different components of amaranth are of greater importance (eg, sterols, oil fractions rich in fatty acids, proteins, amino acids, or fiber) for its hypocholesterolemic effect. It is possible that several constituents are jointly responsible for this action. Regarding the antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and antioxidant activities, most studies were performed in vitro and showed good potential for all three biological effects. Future research should focus on clarifying the effect of amaranth on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, identifying the constituents responsible for these beneficial effects, and providing more data regarding its use in humans, ideally using randomized controlled trials. The antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and antioxidant activities found in vitro should be confirmed further in animal or human models.

Amaranthus Cruentus Taxonomy, Botanical Description, and Review of its Seed Chemical Composition

Among 60-70 species of Amaranthaceae, only three are grain-producing species and Amaranthus cruentus is one of them. It stands out for its significant chemical composition. The high protein content and amino acid composition give amaranth medicinal benefits such as cholesterol lowering, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-allergic, and antihypertensive activity. The fixed oil yield obtained by cold-pressing the grain is only 7-8%, but these lipids are valuable due to the presence of unsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols, tocotrienols, phytosterols, and squalene, which are not present in the same composition in other common oils. Among them, squalene is highly desirable.

Earthworms, Rice Straw, and Plant Interactions Change the Organic Connections in Soil and Promote the Decontamination of Cadmium in Soil

The joint effects of earthworms and crop straw on toxic metal speciation are not clear, and very limited information is available regarding the effects of their interaction on Cd mobility in Cd contaminated soil or in remediation processes involving plants. This study evaluated their impacts on Cd mobile form changes in soil and their effects on Cd uptake by plants. Treatments included both planted and unplanted-Cd-contaminated soil with or without rice straw and/or earthworms. The results revealed that earthworms, rice straw, and plant interactions change the Cd mobile forms in soil. The order of Cd concentration of different chemical forms was as follows: exchangeable > residual > bound to Fe-Mn oxide > bound to organic matter for earthworms, and exchangeable > bound to organic matter > residual > bound to Fe-Mn oxide for rice straw treatment, with a recovery rate of 96 ± 3%. The accumulation of Cd in plants increased in the presence of earthworms and decreased in the presence of rice straw. FT-IR spectra indicated that the degradation of rice straw increases C⁻O, C⁻O⁻H, C⁻H, and O⁻H functional groups which could complex with Cd ions. These findings highlighted that earthworms' activities and crop straw can modify soil properties and structure and promote the remediation of heavy metal. This study suggests that the ecological context of remediation instead of being limiting on soil-earthworms-plant interaction, should integrate the natural resources forsaken which can provide a positive influence on both plant health and the remediation of heavy metal in contaminated soil.

The Effect of Amaranth Seeds, Sea Buckthorn Pomace and Black Chokeberry Pomace in Feed Mixtures for Broiler Chickens on Productive Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Selected Indicators of Meat Quality

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of amaranth seeds, dried sea buckthorn pomace and dried chokeberry pomace on the growth performance of broiler chickens and on the fatty acid profile and oxidative stability of meat lipids. The study was conducted on 480 Ross 308 chickens assigned in the second production phase to 4 experimental groups. The birds from the control group received 3% flax oil, while the chickens from the experimental groups were fed with mixtures containing: 3% flax oil and 8% amaranth seeds (group II), 3% flax oil and 3% dried sea buckthorn pomace (group III), and 3% flax oil and 3% dried chokeberry pomace (group IV). Basic production parameters were evaluated for each feeding period. At 42 days of age, 8 birds with body weight close to the average from each group were slaughtered. A simplified analysis of the chicken carcasses was conducted and samples of the breast muscles were collected for further analysis. The addition of 8% amaranth seeds into the feed mixtures in the second feeding phase decreased body weight gains (P<0.05) and increased the feed conversion ratio compared with groups receiving sea buckthorn or chokeberry pomace. However, the addition of amaranth seeds into the feed mixtures increased breast muscle yield (P<0.05) and decreased fat content in comparison to the other experimental groups. Moreover, sensory analysis of the breast muscles from chickens fed the diet with amaranth seeds revealed that they were characterised by a better aroma (P<0.05) and flavour. The studied feed additives did not significantly affect the physicochemical properties of the breast muscles. Sea buckthorn pomace efficiently slowed down lipid oxidation in the breast muscles. The obtained results indicate that using tested plant additives in feed mixture may be an effective way to improved production parameters of broiler chicken and effectively enriched meat in n-3 fatty acid and protect against excessive oxidation of lipids.

In Vitro Screening of Bioactive Compounds in some Gluten-Free Plants

Electrophoretic, antioxidant, and FTIR profiles of some varieties of amaranth, quinoa, and buckwheat seeds and their by products were compared. Water extracts of these products were evaluated by the Folin-Ciocalteau method in order to determine total phenolic content. The antioxidant activities were determined by 2,2'-azobis-2-methyl-propanimidamide, ferric-reducing/antioxidant power, and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity radical scavenging assays. FTIR spectra showed the secondary structure of pseudocereals in the ranges of amides I, II, and III shifts. Results of evaluated methods could be used to control several products (seeds, flours, extracts, flakes, roasting) with high phenolic content and antioxidant activity suitable for supplementation in food applications. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Emerging opportunities in exploring the nutritional/functional value of amaranth

Amaranthusspp. is a highly nutritive pseudocereal, rich in macronutrients and micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals.

Optimization of the malting process for nutritional improvement of finger millet and amaranth flours in the infant weaning food industry

Malting is a beneficial approach to improve the nutritional value of cereals used in infant preparations. Malted finger millet and amaranth might be considered as potentially appropriate gluten-free alternatives for common wheat-based weaning products, especially in case of those suffering from celiac disease. In this study, the effects of germination temperature and duration on the main nutrients of malted finger millet and amaranth, are evaluated and optimized. Grains were germinated for 24, 36 and 48 h at 22, 26 and 30 °C. In the case of finger millet, germinating for 48 h at 30 °C resulted into 17% increase in protein availability, 10% increase in total energy and 60% reduction in resistant starch (RS). For amaranth, germinating for 48 h at 26 °C was preferable, resulting in 8% increase in protein availability, 11% increase in total energy, 70% reduction in RS and a 10% increase in the linoleic acid.

Influence of a Protein Concentrate from Amaranthus cruentus Seeds on Lipid Metabolism

It is widely known that elevated cholesterol and triglycerides levels favor the development of heart disease. In this paper we studied the effect of a protein concentrate from Amaranthus cruentus (Ac) on the lipid content in serum and liver tissue of male Wistar rats. The animals were separated into two groups, each group with 16 rats. The control diet had casein as protein source (CD), and the experimental one had Ac protein concentrate (PCAcD). The diets contained 1% cholesterol. Parameters of oxidative stress in liver with CD and PCAcD were also evaluated. No significant differences were observed in serum total cholesterol, whereas LDL decreased and HDL increased (P < 0.001), and the amount of triglycerides decreased in PCAcD as compared to CD. In liver, a decrease of total cholesterol and triglycerides (P < 0.001) was observed in the experimental group in relation to control. Fatty acid synthase (FAS) activity decreased significantly in the experimental group. The mRNA of HMG-CoA reductase did not change, and mRNA of FAS decreased in rat liver fed with PCAcD compared with CD. The excretion of total lipids in feces increased with PCAcD compared to CD (P < 0.001). The activity of reactive substances to thiobarbituric acid in liver showed no significant differences between the control and experimental diets. However, total glutathione and reduced glutathione increased in PCAcD compared to CD (P < 0.001). It can be concluded that PCAcD has a hypotriglyceridemic effect, affects the metabolism of liver lipids, and increases parameters of antioxidant protection in male Wistar rats.

Effect of popping and fermentation on proximate composition, minerals and absorption inhibitors, and mineral bioavailability of Amaranthus caudatus grain cultivated in Ethiopia

This study evaluated the effect of popping and fermentation on the chemical composition of three types of Amaranthus caudatus grains cultivated in Ethiopia. Proximate composition, minerals and mineral absorption inhibitors were analyzed. Popping caused a decrease in protein content by 4 % and an increase in fat, ash, acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) contents by 12, 10, 15 and 67 %, respectively. While fermentation increased protein, fat and ash content by 3, 22 and 14 %, respectively but did not significantly change ADF and NDF content. Fe, Ca and phytic acid (IP6) decreased during popping but Mg, Zn, galloyl and catechol did not change significantly. On the other hand, fermentation increased Fe and Mg content but decreased IP6, galloyl and catechol content. The decrease in mineral absorption inhibitors especially IP6 during popping and fermentation could contribute to enhance mineral bioavailability. However, due to the presence of high phytate content in raw amaranth, all IP6-to-mineral molar ratios were above the recommended values.

Pharmacological research on natural substances in Latvia: Focus on lunasin, betulin, polyprenol and phlorizin

In this concise review the current research in plant bioactive compound studies in Latvia is described. The paper summarizes recent studies on substances from edible plants (e.g., cereals and apples) or their synthetic analogues, such as peptide lunasin, as well as substances isolated from inedible plants (e.g., birch and conifer), such as pentacyclic triterpenes (e.g., betulin, betulinic acid, and lupeol) and polyprenols. Latvian researchers have been first to demonstrate the presence of lunasin in triticale and oats. Additionally, the impact of genotype on the levels of lunasin in cereals was shown. Pharmacological studies have revealed effects of lunasin and synthetic triterpenes on the central nervous system in rodents. We were first to show that synthetic lunasin causes a marked neuroleptic/cataleptic effect and that betulin antagonizes bicuculline-induced seizures (a GABA A receptor antagonist). Studies on the mechanisms of action showed that lunasin binds to dopamine D1 receptors and betulin binds to melanocortin and gamma-aminobutyric acid A receptors therefore we suggest that these receptors play an essential role in lunasin's and betulin's central effects. Recent studies on conifer polyprenols demonstrated the ability of polyprenols to prevent statin-induced muscle weakness in a rat model. Another study on plant compounds has demonstrated the anti-hyperglycemic activity of phlorizin-containing unripe apple pomace in healthy volunteers. In summary, research into plant-derived compounds in Latvia has been focused on fractionating, isolating and characterizing of lunasin, triterpenes, polyprenols and phlorizin using in vitro, and in vivo assays, and human observational studies.

Oats-From Farm to Fork

Oats have a long history of use as human food and animal feed. From its origins in the Fertile Crescent, the oat has adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions and geographic regions. Its unique macro-, micro-, and phytonutrient composition, high nutritional value, and relatively low agricultural input requirements makes oats unique among cereal crops. The health benefits of the oats are becoming well established. While the connection between oat β-glucan fiber in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and controlling glycemia have been unequivocally established, other potential benefits including modulation of intestinal microbiota and inflammation continue to be explored. Advances in food technology are continuing to expand the diversity of oat-based foods, creating opportunities to deliver the health benefits of oats to a larger segment of the population.

Effects of the Dietary Addition of Amaranth (Amaranthus mantegazzianus) Protein Isolate on Antioxidant Status, Lipid Profiles and Blood Pressure of Rats

The effects of the dietary addition of 2.5% (w/w) Amaranthus mantegazzianus protein isolate (AI) on blood pressure, lipid profiles and antioxidative status of Wistar rats were evaluated. Six diets were used to feed animals during 28 days: (base (AIN93G), Chol (cholesterol 1%, w/w), CE (α-tocopherol 0.005%, w/w), CholE (cholesterol 1% (w/w) + α-tocopherol 0.005%, w/w), CAI (AI 2.5% w/w), CholAI (cholesterol 1% (w/w) + AI 2.5%, w/w). Lipid profiles of plasma and liver and faecal cholesterol content were analyzed. Antioxidant status was evaluated by the ferric reducing activity of plasma (FRAP), the 2-thiobarbituric acid (TBA) assay and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in plasma and liver. Blood pressure was measured in the tail artery of rats. CholA group presented a significant (α < 0.05) reduction (16%) in the plasma total cholesterol. In liver, the intake of cholesterol (Chol group) induced a significant increment in cholesterol and triglycerides (2.5 and 2.3 times, respectively), which could be decreased (18% and 47%, respectively) by the addition of AI (CholA group). This last group also showed an increased faecal cholesterol excretion (20%). Increment (50%) in FRAP values, diminution of TBA value in plasma and liver (70% and 38%, respectively) and diminution of SOD activity (20%) in plasma of CholA group suggest an antioxidant effect because of the intake of AI. In addition, CA and CholA groups presented a diminution (18%) of blood pressure after 28 days.

GC-TOF-MS-based serum metabolomic investigations of naked oat bran supplementation in high-fat-diet-induced dyslipidemic rats

The present study aimed to explore the metabolic response of oat bran consumption in dyslipidemic rats by a high-throughput metabolomics approach. Four groups of Sprague-Dawley rats were used: N group (normal chow diet), M group (dyslipidemia induced by 4-week high-fat feeding, then normal chow diet), OL group and OH group (dyslipidemia induced, then normal chow diet supplemented with 10.8% or 43.4% naked oat bran). Intervention lasted for 12weeks. Gas chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry was used to identify serum metabolite profiles. Results confirmed the effects of oat bran on improving lipidemic variables and showed distinct metabolomic profiles associated with diet intervention. A number of endogenous molecules were changed by high-fat diet and normalized following supplementation of naked oat bran. Elevated levels of serum unsaturated fatty acids including arachidonic acid (Log2Fold of change=0.70, P=.02 OH vs. M group), palmitoleic acid (Log2Fold of change=1.24, P=.02 OH vs. M group) and oleic acid (Log2Fold of change=0.66, P=.04 OH vs. M group) were detected after oat bran consumption. Furthermore, consumption of oat bran was also characterized by higher levels of methionine and S-adenosylmethionine. Pathway exploration found that most of the discriminant metabolites were involved in fatty acid biosynthesis, biosynthesis and metabolism of amino acids, microbial metabolism in diverse environments and biosynthesis of plant secondary metabolites. These results point to potential biomarkers and underlying benefit of naked oat bran in the context of diet-induced dyslipidemia and offer some insights into the mechanism exploration.

Manufacture and characterization of a yogurt-like beverage made with oat flakes fermented by selected lactic acid bacteria

This study aimed at investigating the suitability of oat flakes for making functional beverages. Different technological options were assayed, including the amount of flakes, the inoculum of the starter and the addition of enzyme preparations. The beverage containing 25% (wt/wt) of oat flakes and fermented with L. plantarum LP09 was considered optimal on the basis of sensory and technological properties. The enzyme addition favored the growth of the starter, shortened the time needed to reach pH4.2 to ca. 8h, and favored a decrease of the quotient of fermentation. Fermentation increased the polyphenols availability and the antioxidant activity (25 and 70% higher, respectively) and decreased the hydrolysis index in vitro. Sensory analyses showed that fermented oat flakes beverage had the typical features of a yogurt-like beverage, enhancing the overall intensity of odor and flavor compared to the non-fermented control. Selection of proper processing and fermentation condition allowed the obtainment of a beverage with better nutritional and sensory properties.

Intake of heat-expanded amaranth grain reverses endothelial dysfunction in hypercholesterolemic rabbits

Feeding amaranth grain to hypercholesterolemic rabbits showed the property of recovering the lost endothelial function even without removing the hypercholesterolemia-inducing diet. Results suggest an underlying protective effect.

Biochemical and molecular study of the influence of Amaranthus hypochondriacus flour on serum and liver lipids in rats treated with ethanol

Hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis are frequent alterations due to alcohol abuse. Amaranth is a pseudocereal with hypolipidemic potential among other nutraceutical actions. Here we study the effect of Amaranthus hypochondriacus (Ah) seeds on serum and liver lipids, and the expression of genes associated to lipid metabolism and liver histology in male Wistar rats intoxicated with ethanol. The animals were divided into four groups; two groups were fed the American Institute of Nutrition 1993 for maintenance diet (AIN-93M), and the other two with AIN-93M containing Ah as protein source. One of each protein group received 20% ethanol in the drinking water, thus obtaining: CC (control casein), EC (ethanol casein), CAh (control Ah) and EAh (ethanol Ah). When comparing EAh vs . EC, we found a positive effect of Ah on lipids, preventing the increment of serum cholesterol (p <0.001), through the higher expression of the LDL receptor (p <0.001); and it also decreased free (p < 0.05) and esterified cholesterol (p <0.01) in liver, probably via the reduction of the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase expression (p <0.001). We also observed that amaranth contributed to the decrease of fat deposits in liver, probably through the decrease in acetyl-CoA carboxylase alpha (p <0.01), glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase 1 (p <0.01) and diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 2 (p <0.05) expression. The histological study showed a decrease in the fat deposits in the amaranth group when compared to casein; this is consistent with the biochemical and molecular parameters studied in this work. In conclusion, amaranth could be recommended to avoid the alterations in the lipid metabolism induced by alcohol and other harmful agents.

Efficiency of barley bran and oat bran in ameliorating blood lipid profile and the adverse histological changes in hypercholesterolemic male rats

The efficiency of oat bran and barley bran in lowering the induced hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia in blood of male Albino rats (Rattus rattus) was studied. Twenty rats were divided into four groups each consisted of five rats and fed the specified test diets for eight weeks. The first group (G1) is the negative group which was fed basal diet, the second group (G2) was fed 1.0% cholesterol, was the third group (G3) fed 1.0% cholesterol and 10% oats bran, and the fourth group (G4) was fed 1.0% cholesterol and 10% barley bran. Feeding rats on 1% cholesterol significantly increased serum total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, and very low density lipoprotein and triglyceride and decreased serum high density lipoprotein. Furthermore, enzyme activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase was increased, and lipid peroxide was increased, whereas catalase and glutathione-S-transferase were decreased. Kidney functions parameters in the cholesterol supplemented group were elevated compared with the negative control. In addition, histological alteration in kidney, liver, heart, and testes was observed, compared with the negative control. Hypercholesterolemic rats supplemented with oat bran and barley bran showed significant decrease in lipid parameters, significant increase in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, improved antioxidant enzyme, and improved histopathology of kidney, liver, heart, and testes. In conclusion, both oat bran and barley bran had protective effects against induced hyperlipidemia and improved histological alterations. Oat bran appeared more efficient than barley bran in lowering the lipid profile levels in hypercholesterolemic rats.

Avena sativa (Oat), a potential neutraceutical and therapeutic agent: an overview

The aim of the present review article is to summarize the available information related to the availability, production, chemical composition, pharmacological activity, and traditional uses of Avena sativa to highlight its potential to contribute to human health. Oats are now cultivated worldwide and form an important dietary staple for the people in number of countries. Several varieties of oats are available. It is a rich source of protein, contains a number of important minerals, lipids, β-glucan, a mixed-linkage polysaccharide, which forms an important part of oat dietary fiber, and also contains various other phytoconstituents like avenanthramides, an indole alkaloid-gramine, flavonoids, flavonolignans, triterpenoid saponins, sterols, and tocols. Traditionally oats have been in use since long and are considered as stimulant, antispasmodic, antitumor, diuretic, and neurotonic. Oat possesses different pharmacological activities like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, anticholesterolaemic, etc. A wide spectrum of biological activities indicates that oat is a potential therapeutic agent.

State of knowledge on amaranth grain: a comprehensive review

Amaranth grain is a highly nutritional pseudocereal with a superior amount of proteins when compared to true cereals. It is a reasonably well-balanced food with functional properties that have been shown to provide medicinal benefits. The health benefits attributed include decreasing plasma cholesterol levels, stimulating the immune system, exerting an antitumor activity, reducing blood glucose levels and improving conditions of hypertension and anemia. In addition, it has been reported to possess anti-allergic and antioxidant activities. The present article provides a comprehensive overview of amaranth grain that focuses on recent research reporting its use in the clinical practice and its possible benefits to human health.

Changes in the metabolome and histopathology of Amaranthus hypochondriacus L. in response to Ageratum enation virus infection

Amaranthus hypochondriacus L. infected with Ageratum enation virus (AEV) was investigated for identifying alteration in the anatomical structures, sap translocation and metabolomic variations using light microscopy, magnetic resonance imaging, NMR spectroscopy and GC-MS, respectively. Combination of GC-MS and NMR spectroscopy identified 68 polar and non-polar metabolites that were present in different levels in healthy and virus-infected A. hypochondriacus. Contrast of T₁ and T₂ weighted MR images showed significant differences in the spatial distribution of water, lipids and macromolecules indicating alterations in the cortical region and disruption of vascular bundles in virus-infected stem tissues. MRI observations are supported by light microscopic examination. Microscopic examination of AEV infected stem revealed severe hyperplasia with a considerable reduction in size of stem cells. The NMR spectroscopy and GC-MS analysis indicated that viral infection significantly affected the plant primary and secondary metabolism resulting in decreased glucose and sucrose content and increase in the concentration of β-sitosterol and stigmasterol. Higher accumulation of TCA cycle intermediates such as citric acid and malic acid in AEV infected plants indicated enhanced rate of respiratory metabolism. The viral stress significantly increases the concentration of erythritol and myo-inositol as compared to healthy ones. Lower concentration of glucose and sucrose in viral-infected stem tissues suggests decreased translocation of photosynthates in the plants. The results demonstrated potential of MRI, NMR spectroscopy and GC-MS for studying anatomical and metabolic variations in virus-infected plants.

Antioxidant properties of Amaranthus hypochondriacus seeds and their effect on the liver of alcohol-treated rats

Amaranth constitutes a valuable pseudocereal, due to its nutritional quality and its nutraceutical properties, which contribute to improve human health. This work evaluated the effect of a diet based on Amaranthus hypochondriacus (Ah) seed on oxidative stress and antioxidant status in the liver of rats sub-chronically exposed to ethanol. The seed extract was investigated for antioxidant capacity in vitro, showing an adequate content of total phenols and antioxidant activity elevated. For in vivo assays, four groups of six rats each were fed with an AIN-93 M diet for 28 days. In groups III and IV casein was replaced by Ah as the protein source; groups II and IV were received ethanol in the drinking water (20% v/v). When comparing groups IV and II, the following was observed: significant decrease in the activity of aspartate aminotransferase and content of malondialdehyde (p<0.001) in serum; decrease of malondialdehyde and increase in the activity and gene expression of Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase, also, decrease in the NADPH oxidase transcript levels (p<0.05) in liver. Our data suggest that Ah is a good source of total phenols and exerts a protective effect in serum and in liver of rats intoxicated with ethanol.

Effect of quinoa seeds (Chenopodium quinoa) in diet on some biochemical parameters and essential elements in blood of high fructose-fed rats

The effect of Chenopodium quinoa seeds on lipid profile, glucose level, protein metabolism and selected essential elements (Na, K, Ca, Mg) level was determined in high-fructose fed male Wistar rats. Fructose decreased significantly LDL [42%, p<0.01] and activity of alkaline phosphatase [20%, p<0.05], and increased triglycerides level [86%, p<0.01]. The analysis of blood of rats fed quinoa indicated, that these seeds effectively reduced serum total cholesterol [26%, p<0.05], LDL [57%, p<0.008] and triglycerides [11%, p<0.05] when compared to the control group. Quinoa seeds also significantly reduced the level of glucose [10%, p<0.01] and plasma total protein level [16%, p<0.001]. Fructose significantly decreased HDL [15%, p<0.05] level in control group but when the quinoa seeds were added into the diet the decrease of HDL level was inhibited. Quinoa seeds did not prevent any adverse effect of increasing triglyceride level caused by fructose. It was shown in this study that quinoa seeds can reduce most of the adverse effects exerted by fructose on lipid profile and glucose level.

Effects of oats on plasma cholesterol and lipoproteins in C57BL/6 mice are substrain specific

Cholesterol-lowering effects of oats have been demonstrated in both animals and human subjects. However, the crucial properties of oat-containing diets that determine their health effects need to be further investigated to optimise their use. A mouse model would be a valuable tool, but few such studies have been published to date. We investigated the effects of oat bran on plasma cholesterol and lipoproteins in two substrains of C57BL/6 mice. Western diet was made atherogenic by the addition of 0·8 % cholesterol and 0·1 % cholic acid. After 4 weeks on atherogenic diet, total plasma cholesterol had increased from 1·86–2·53 to 3·77–4·40 mmol/l. In C57BL/6NCrl mice, inclusion of 27 and 40 % oat bran reduced total plasma cholesterol by 19 and 24 %, respectively, reduced the shift from HDL to LDL+VLDL and caused increased faecal cholesterol excretion. There was no effect of oat bran on plasma levels of the inflammatory markers fibrinogen, serum amyloid A or TNF-α. Contrary to findings in C57BL/6NCrl mice, there was no sustained effect of oat bran (27 or 40 %) on plasma cholesterol in C57BL/6JBomTac mice after 4 weeks of feeding. Thus, C57BL/6NCrl mice fed an atherogenic diet are a good model for studies of physiological effects of oats, whereas a substrain derived from C57BL/6J, raised in a different breeding environment and likely possessing functional genetic differences from C57BL/6N, is considerably less responsive to oats. The present finding that two substrains of mice respond differently to oats is of practical value, but can also help to elucidate mechanisms of the cholesterol-lowering effect of oats.

Rutin and total quercetin content in amaranth (Amaranthus spp.)

The aim of the study was to confirm the presence of rutin, one of the most common quercetin glycosides, and other quercetin derivatives in plants of genus Amaranthus, to investigate the influence of the species and variety on rutin distribution in the plant and content changes during growing season. The rutin content was determined by micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography in individual plant parts at the beginning of the growth, at the flowering stage and at the maturity stage of five Amaranthus species. The total quercetin content was determined by micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography too. The rutin content in amaranth ranged from 0.08 (in seeds) to 24.5 g/kg dry matter (in leaves). Comparison of the determined total quercetin content and the calculated content of quercetin released from rutin did not prove important presence of quercetin or other quercetin derivatives than rutin. Only amaranth leaves sampled at the maturity stage probably contained quercetin or quercetin derivatives. Significant differences in the rutin content were established among species and as well varieties. Amaranthus hybrid and A. cruentus were the best sources of rutin.