Plant polyphenols as natural drugs for the management of Down syndrome and related disorders

Effects of Mediterranean diets and nutrigenomics on cardiovascular health

The field of nutrigenomics studies the interaction between nutrition and genetics, and how certain dietary patterns can impact gene expression and overall health. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), characterized by a high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, has been linked to better cardiovascular health (CVH) outcomes. This review summarizes the current state of research on the effects of nutrigenomics and MedDiet on cardiovascular health. Results suggest that MedDiet, through its impact on gene expression, can positively influence CVH markers such as blood pressure, lipid profile, and inflammation. However, more research is needed to fully understand the complex interactions between genetics, nutrition, and CVH, and to determine the optimal dietary patterns for individualized care. The aim of this scientific review is to evaluate the current evidence on the effects of nutrigenomics and MedDiet on cardiovascular health. The review summarizes the available studies that have investigated the relationship between nutrition, genetics, and cardiovascular health, and explores the mechanisms by which certain dietary patterns can impact CVH outcomes. The review focuses on the effects of MedDiet, a dietary pattern that is rich in whole foods and healthy fats, and its potential to positively influence CVH through its impact on gene expression. The review highlights the limitations of current research and the need for further studies to fully understand the complex interplay between nutrition, genetics, and cardiovascular health.

Blood tests and use of nutritional supplements in a cohort of Brazilian children with trisomy 21

OBJECTIVE

To describe the use of nutritional supplements and blood status (hemogram, lipidogram, hepatic function, inflammatory markers, minerals, and homocysteine) in a sample of Brazilian T21 children with private health support before their first consultation with a T21 expert.

METHOD

This descriptive cross-sectional study enrolled 102 participants. Brazilian families with a T21 member under 18 years old were contacted and those that consented answered a survey regarding socio-demographics and the use of nutritional supplements and shared the blood tests that their T21 members have collected for the first consultation with a T21 expert.

RESULTS

Frequencies and percentages were used to describe the variables. The most used supplements included vitamins (A, C and D), minerals (zinc and iron), omega-3, and antioxidants (curcumin). Hypothyroidism was observed in 56.9% of the participants. Hemogram alterations (increased hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and red cell distribution width, leukopenia, and lymphocytopenia), dyslipidemia, altered hepatic and inflammatory blood markers were frequently found.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutritional supplements (mainly vitamins, minerals, omega-3 and antioxidants) are frequently used by Brazilian T21 children independently of professional counseling and/or supervision and should be a question to be raised during the clinical anamnesis since some of them may impact medical conduct. Moreover, many blood tests are altered in this population and clinicians should be aware of them in order to warrant an appropriate screening and the implementation of risk management measures as soon as possible and improve the general health of these persons.

Brain Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in Genetic Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Focus on Down, Rett and Fragile X Syndromes

Mitochondria, far beyond their prominent role as cellular powerhouses, are complex cellular organelles active as central metabolic hubs that are capable of integrating and controlling several signaling pathways essential for neurological processes, including neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. On the other hand, mitochondria are themselves regulated from a series of signaling proteins to achieve the best efficiency in producing energy, in establishing a network and in performing their own de novo synthesis or clearance. Dysfunctions in signaling processes that control mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamics and bioenergetics are increasingly associated with impairment in brain development and involved in a wide variety of neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we review recent evidence proving the emerging role of mitochondria as master regulators of brain bioenergetics, highlighting their control skills in brain neurodevelopment and cognition. We analyze, from a mechanistic point of view, mitochondrial bioenergetic dysfunction as causally interrelated to the origins of typical genetic intellectual disability-related neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Down, Rett and Fragile X syndromes. Finally, we discuss whether mitochondria can become therapeutic targets to improve brain development and function from a holistic perspective.

Therapeutics for mitochondrial dysfunction-linked diseases in Down syndrome

Genome-wide deregulation contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction and impairment in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) mechanism resulting in oxidative stress, increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell death in individuals with Down syndrome (DS). The cells, which require more energy, such as muscles, brain and heart are greatly affected. Impairment in mitochondrial network has a direct link with patho-mechanism at cellular and systemic levels at the backdrop of generalized metabolic perturbations in individuals with DS. Myriads of clinico-phenotypic features, including intellectual disability, early aging and neurodegeneration, and Alzheimer disease (AD)-related dementia are inevitable in DS-population where mitochondrial dysfunctions play the central role. Collectively, the mitochondrial abnormalities and altered energy metabolism perturbs several signaling pathways, particularly related to neurogenesis, which are directly associated with cognitive development and early onset of AD in individuals with DS. Therefore, therapeutic challenges for amelioration of the mitochondrial defects were perceived to improve the quality of life of the DS population. A number of pharmacologically active natural compounds such as polyphenols, antioxidants and flavonoids have shown convincing outcome for reversal of the dysfunctional mitochondrial network and oxidative metabolism, and improvement in intellectual skill in mouse models of DS and humans with DS.

Dietary supplementation with jasmine flower residue improves meat quality and flavor of goat

Jasmine flower residue (JFR) is a by-product retained in the production process of jasmine tea and can be used as an unconventional feed due to its rich nutrient value. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the addition of JFR to the diet of goats on their meat quality and flavor. Twenty-four castrated Nubian male goats were randomly divided into two groups and fed a mixed diet containing 10% JFR (JFR, n = 12) or a conventional diet (CON, n = 12) for 45 days. Meat quality and flavor were measured at the end of the treatment. The addition of JFR to the diet could reduce the shear force of the longissimus dorsi muscle, as well as, the cross-sectional area and diameter of muscle fibers, indicating that the addition of JFR improved meat quality. JFR also increased the content of glutamic acid and ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (C18:3n3 and C20:5N3) and reduced the content of C24:1 and saturated fatty acid (C20:0 and C22:0). In addition, the use of JFR increased the content of acetaldehyde and hexanal in the meat. Furthermore, JFR introduced new volatile components in the meat. The umami, saltiness, and richness of the meat also improved. In conclusion, the addition of jasmine flower residue to the diet can improve the meat quality and flavor of goat.

Prospective Role of Indigenous Leafy Vegetables as Functional Food Ingredients

Indigenous leafy vegetables (ILVs) play a pivotal role in sustaining the lives of many people of low socio-economic status who reside in rural areas of most developing countries. Such ILVs contribute to food security since they withstand harsher weather and soil conditions than their commercial counterparts and supply important nutrients such as dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, ILVs contain bioactive components such as phenolic compounds, flavonoids, dietary fibre, carotene content and vitamin C that confer health benefits on consumers. Several studies have demonstrated that regular and adequate consumption of vegetables reduces risks of chronic conditions such as diabetes, cancer, metabolic disorders such as obesity in children and adults, as well as cardiovascular disease. However, consumption of ILVs is very low globally as they are associated with unbalanced and poor diets, with being food for the poor and with possibly containing toxic heavy metals. Therefore, this paper reviews the role of ILVs as food security crops, the biodiversity of ILVs, the effects of processing on the bioactivity of ILVs, consumer acceptability of food derived from ILVs, potential toxicity of some ILVs and the potential role ILVs play in the future of eating.

Implication of the Mediterranean diet on the human epigenome

Epigenetics, defined as "hereditary changes in gene expression that occur without any change in the DNA sequence", consists of various epigenetic marks, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. The epigenome, which has a dynamic structure in response to intracellular and extracellular stimuli, has a key role in the control of gene activity, since it is located at the intersection of cellular information encoded in the genome and molecular/chemical information of extracellular origin. The focus shift of studies to epigenetic reprogramming has led to the formation and progressive importance of a concept called "nutriepigenetics", whose aim is to prevent diseases by intervening on nutrition style. Among the diet types adopted in the world, the renowned Mediterranean Diet (MD), being rich in unsaturated fatty acids and containing high levels of whole grain foods and large quantities of fruits, vegetables, and legumes, has shown numerous advantages in excluding chronic diseases. Additionally, the fact that this diet is rich in polyphenols with high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties has an undeniable effect in turning some cellular pathways against the disease. It is also apparent that the effects of polyphenols on the epigenome cause changes in mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation/deacetylation, which have a regulatory effect on gene regulation. This review presents the effects of long-term consumption of nutrients from the MD on the epigenome and discusses the benefits of this diet in the treatment and even prevention of chronic diseases.

Epigallocatechin gallate is a potent inhibitor of cystathionine beta-synthase: Structure-activity relationship and mechanism of action

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the main bioactive component of green tea. Through screening of a small library of natural compounds, we discovered that EGCG inhibits cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), a major H₂S-generating enzyme. Here we characterize EGCG's mechanism of action in the context of CBS-derived H₂S production. In the current project, biochemical, pharmacological and cell biology approaches were used to characterize the effect of EGCG on CBS in cellular models of cancer and Down syndrome (DS). The results show that EGCG binds to CBS and inhibits H₂S-producing CBS activity almost 30-times more efficiently than the canonical cystathionine formation (IC₅₀ 0.12 versus 3.3 μM). Through screening structural analogs and building blocks, we identified that gallate moiety of EGCG represents the pharmacophore responsible for CBS inhibition. EGCG is a mixed-mode, CBS-specific inhibitor with no effect on the other two major enzymatic sources of H₂S, CSE and 3-MST. Unlike the prototypical CBS inhibitor aminooxyacetate, EGCG does not bind the catalytic cofactor of CBS pyridoxal-5'-phosphate. Molecular modeling suggests that EGCG blocks a substrate access channel to pyridoxal-5'-phosphate. EGCG inhibits cellular H₂S production in HCT-116 colon cancer cells and in DS fibroblasts. It also exerts effects that are consistent with the functional role of CBS in these cells: in HCT-116 cells it decreases, while in DS cells it improves viability and proliferation. In conclusion, EGCG is a potent inhibitor of CBS-derived H₂S production. This effect may contribute to its pharmacological effects in various pathophysiological conditions.

Anticancer Activities of Marine-Derived Phenolic Compounds and Their Derivatives

Since the middle of the last century, marine organisms have been identified as producers of chemically and biologically diverse secondary metabolites which have exerted various biological activities including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifouling and others. This review primarily focuses on the marine phenolic compounds and their derivatives with potent anticancer activity, isolated and/or modified in the last decade. Reports on the elucidation of their structures as well as biosynthetic studies and total synthesis are also covered. Presented phenolic compounds inhibited cancer cells proliferation or migration, at sub-micromolar or nanomolar concentrations (lamellarins D (37), M (38), K (39), aspergiolide B (41), fradimycin B (62), makulavamine J (66), mayamycin (69), N-acetyl-N-demethylmayamycin (70) or norhierridin B (75)). In addition, they exhibited anticancer properties by a diverse biological mechanism including induction of apoptosis or inhibition of cell migration and invasive potential. Finally, phlorotannins 1–7 and bromophenols 12–29 represent the most researched phenolic compounds, of which the former are recognized as protective agents against UVB or gamma radiation-induced skin damages. Finally, phenolic metabolites were assorted into six main classes: phlorotannins, bromophenols, flavonoids, coumarins, terpenophenolics, quinones and hydroquinones. The derivatives that could not be attributed to any of the above-mentioned classes were grouped in a separate class named miscellaneous compounds.

S-Adenosylmethionine May Mitigate Obstructive Sleep Apnea in an Adult with Down Syndrome: A Case Report

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is common in individuals with Down syndrome (DS). These patients are characterized by reduced levels of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) due to a depression of mitochondrial methylation capacity, and its implementation may improve cognitive performance. Based on the above, it is likely a beneficial effect in the treatment with SAMe also on the quality of the sleep. We report the case of an adult male with DS who received benefit of SAMe administration during OSA treatment with CPAP. We observed a significant improvement of apnea/hypopnea index (AHI), which has never been previously reported in Down individuals. AHI dropped from 51.2 to 17.2 from 0 to 49 months.

Impaired Brain Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in the Ts65Dn Mouse Model of Down Syndrome Is Restored by Neonatal Treatment with the Polyphenol 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone

Down syndrome (DS), a major genetic cause of intellectual disability, is characterized by numerous neurodevelopmental defects. Previous in vitro studies highlighted a relationship between bioenergetic dysfunction and reduced neurogenesis in progenitor cells from the Ts65Dn mouse model of DS, suggesting a critical role of mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodevelopmental alterations in DS. Recent in vivo studies in Ts65Dn mice showed that neonatal supplementation (Days P3–P15) with the polyphenol 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) fully restored hippocampal neurogenesis. The current study was aimed to establish whether brain mitochondrial bioenergetic defects are already present in Ts65Dn pups and whether early treatment with 7,8-DHF positively impacts on mitochondrial function. In the brain and cerebellum of P3 and P15 Ts65Dn pups we found a strong impairment in the oxidative phosphorylation apparatus, resulting in a deficit in mitochondrial ATP production and ATP content. Administration of 7,8-DHF (dose: 5 mg/kg/day) during Days P3–P15 fully restored bioenergetic dysfunction in Ts65Dn mice, reduced the levels of oxygen radicals and reinstated the hippocampal levels of PGC-1α. No pharmacotherapy is available for DS. From current findings, 7,8-DHF emerges as a treatment with a good translational potential for improving mitochondrial bioenergetics and, thus, mitochondria-linked neurodevelopmental alterations in DS.

Polyphenolic composition and antioxidant potential of underutilized Himalayan wild edible berries by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry

The Himalayan wild berries Myrica esculenta, Duchesnea indica, Prunus cerasoides, and Berberis lycium were studied for the first time for polyphenolic compositions using high-performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. The chemical analysis of extracts resulted in the identification of 69 polyphenols, including 11 anthocyanins, 28 phenolic acids, 19 flavanoids, 10 ellagitannins, and 1 dihydrochalcone. The caffeoylquinic acids, quercetin, kaempferol, and cyanidin are the common moieties in studied wild berries. In addition, seven phenolic compounds, that is, gallic acid, vanillic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, ferulic acid, quercetin, and myricetin were quantified. Among anthocyanins, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside was the majorly quantified anthocyanin that ranged from 2.52 to 6.18% followed by delphinidin-3-O-glucoside (0.6%-5.53%). The samples were assessed for total phenolics, total anthocyanin content, and antioxidant potential. The results showed that M. esculenta and B. lycium had the highest total phenolic and anthocyanin content and exhibited promising antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ of 32.100 ± 0.42 and 48.44 ± 0.46 μg/mL, respectively. Principal component analysis was able to clearly differentiate between four underutilized Himalayan wild edible berries. The wide variability of polyphenolic constituents supports the consumption of these berries not only to achieve the nutrient requirements among local people but also as promising sources of antioxidants for the food industry.

Polyphenols and neuroprotection: Therapeutic implications for cognitive decline

Dietary polyphenols have been the focus of major interest for their potential benefits on human health. Several preclinical studies have been conducted to provide a rationale for their potential use as therapeutic agents in preventing or ameliorating cognitive decline. However, results from human studies are scarce and poorly documented. The aim of this review was to discuss the potential mechanisms involved in age-related cognitive decline or early stage cognitive impairment and current evidence from clinical human studies conducted on polyphenols and the aforementioned outcomes. The evidence published so far is encouraging but contrasting findings are to be taken into account. Most studies on anthocyanins showed a consistent positive effect on various cognitive aspects related to aging or early stages of cognitive impairment. Studies on cocoa flavanols, resveratrol, and isoflavones provided substantial contrasting results and further research is needed to clarify the therapeutic potential of these compounds. Results from other studies on quercetin, green tea flavanols, hydroxycinnamic acids (such as chlorogenic acid), curcumin, and olive oil tyrosol and derivatives are rather promising but still too few to provide any real conclusions. Future translational studies are needed to address issues related to dosage, optimal formulations to improve bioavailability, as well as better control for the overall diet, and correct target population.

Oxidative Phosphorylation Is Dysregulated Within the Basocortical Circuit in a 6-month old Mouse Model of Down Syndrome and Alzheimer's Disease

Down syndrome (DS) is the primary genetic cause of intellectual disability (ID), which is due to the triplication of human chromosome 21 (HSA21). In addition to ID, HSA21 trisomy results in a number of neurological and physiological pathologies in individuals with DS, including progressive cognitive dysfunction and learning and memory deficits which worsen with age. Further exacerbating neurological dysfunction associated with DS is the concomitant basal forebrain cholinergic neuron (BFCN) degeneration and onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology in early mid-life. Recent single population RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis in the Ts65Dn mouse model of DS, specifically the medial septal cholinergic neurons of the basal forebrain (BF), revealed the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation pathway was significantly impacted, with a large subset of genes within this pathway being downregulated. We further queried oxidative phosphorylation pathway dysregulation in Ts65Dn mice by examining genes and encoded proteins within brain regions comprising the basocortical system at the start of BFCN degeneration (6 months of age). In select Ts65Dn mice we demonstrate significant deficits in gene and/or encoded protein levels of Complex I-V of the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation pathway in the BF. In the frontal cortex (Fr Ctx) these complexes had concomitant alterations in select gene expression but not of the proteins queried from Complex I-V, suggesting that defects at this time point in the BF are more severe and occur prior to cortical dysfunction within the basocortical circuit. We propose dysregulation within mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation complexes is an early marker of cognitive decline onset and specifically linked to BFCN degeneration that may propagate pathology throughout cortical memory and executive function circuits in DS and AD.

Improving Cognition with Nutraceuticals Targeting TGF-β1 Signaling

Rescue of cognitive function represents an unmet need in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Nutraceuticals deliver a concentrated form of a presumed bioactive(s) agent(s) that can improve cognitive function alone or in combination with current approved drugs for the treatment of cognitive disorders. Nutraceuticals include different natural compounds such as flavonoids and their subclasses (flavan-3-ols, catechins, anthocyanins, and flavonols), omega-3, and carnosine that can improve synaptic plasticity and rescue cognitive deficits through multiple molecular mechanisms. A deficit of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) pathway is an early event in the pathophysiology of cognitive impairment in different neuropsychiatric disorders, from depression to AD. In the present review, we provide evidence that different nutraceuticals, such as Hypericum perforatum (hypericin and hyperforin), flavonoids such as hesperidin, omega-3, and carnosine, can target TGF-β1 signaling and increase TGF-β1 production in the central nervous system as well as cognitive function. The bioavailability of these nutraceuticals, in particular carnosine, can be significantly improved with novel formulations (nanoparticulate systems, nanoliposomes) that increase the efficacy and stability of this peptide. Overall, these studies suggest that the synergism between nutraceuticals targeting the TGF-β1 pathway and current approved drugs might represent a novel pharmacological approach for reverting cognitive deficits in AD patients.

Down syndrome is an oxidative phosphorylation disorder

Down syndrome is the most common genomic disorder of intellectual disability and is caused by trisomy of chromosome 21. Several genes in this chromosome repress mitochondrial biogenesis. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether early overexpression of these genes may cause a prenatal impairment of oxidative phosphorylation negatively affecting neurogenesis. Reduction in the mitochondrial energy production and a lower mitochondrial function have been reported in diverse tissues or cell types, and also at any age, including early fetuses, suggesting that a defect in oxidative phosphorylation is an early and general event in Down syndrome individuals. Moreover, many of the medical conditions associated with Down syndrome are also frequently found in patients with oxidative phosphorylation disease. Several drugs that enhance mitochondrial biogenesis are nowadays available and some of them have been already tested in mouse models of Down syndrome restoring neurogenesis and cognitive defects. Because neurogenesis relies on a correct mitochondrial function and critical periods of brain development occur mainly in the prenatal and early neonatal stages, therapeutic approaches intended to improve oxidative phosphorylation should be provided in these periods.

Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Plus Omega-3 Restores the Mitochondrial Complex I and F0F1-ATP Synthase Activities in PBMCs of Young Children with Down Syndrome: A Pilot Study of Safety and Efficacy

Down syndrome (DS) is a major genetic cause of intellectual disability. DS pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated, and no specific pharmacological therapy is available. DYRK1A overexpression, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction were described in trisomy 21. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is a multimodal nutraceutical with antioxidant properties. EGCG inhibits DYRK1A overexpression and corrects DS mitochondrial dysfunction in vitro. The present study explores safety profiles in DS children aged 1–8 years treated with EGCG (10 mg/kg/die, suspended in omega-3, per os, in fasting conditions, for 6 months) and EGCG efficacy in restoring mitochondrial complex I and F₀F₁-ATP synthase (complex V) deficiency, assessed on PBMCs. The Griffiths Mental Developmental Scales—Extended Revised (GMDS-ER) was used for developmental profiling. Results show that decaffeinated EGCG (>90%) plus omega-3 is safe in DS children and effective in reverting the deficit of mitochondrial complex I and V activities. Decline of plasma folates was observed in 21% of EGCG-treated patients and should be carefully monitored. GMDS-ER scores did not show differences between the treated group compared to the DS control group. In conclusion, EGCG plus omega-3 can be safely administered under medical supervision in DS children aged 1–8 years to normalize mitochondria respiratory chain complex activities, while results on the improvement of developmental performance are still inconclusive.

Polyphenols as a versatile component in tissue engineering

The fabrication of functional tissue or organs substitutes has always been the pursuit of goals in the field of tissue engineering. But even biocompatible tissue-engineered scaffolds still suffer from immune rejection, subsequent long-term oxidative stress and inflammation, which can delay normal tissue repair and regeneration. As a well-known natural antioxidant, polyphenols have been widely used in tissue engineering in recent years. The introduced polyphenols not only reduce the damage of oxidative stress to normal tissues, but show specific affinity to functional molecules, such as receptors, enzyme, transcription and transduction factors, etc. Therefore, polyphenols can promote the recovery process of damaged tissues by both regulating tissue microenvironment and participating in cell events, which embody specifically in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and growth-promoting properties. In addition, based on its hydrophilic and hydrophobic moieties, polyphenols have been widely used to improve the mechanical properties and anti-degradation properties of tissue engineering scaffolds. In this review, the research advances of tissue engineering scaffolds containing polyphenols is discussed systematically from the aspects of action mechanism, introduction method and regulation effect of polyphenols, in order to provide references for the rational design of polyphenol-related functional scaffolds.

Natural Compounds for the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Secondary metabolites from plants and fungi are stimulating growing interest in consumers and, consequently, in the food and supplement industries. The beneficial effects of these natural compounds are being thoroughly studied and there are frequent updates about the biological activities of old and new molecules isolated from plants and fungi. In this article, we present a review of the most recent literature regarding the recent discovery of secondary metabolites through isolation and structural elucidation, as well as the in vitro and/or in vivo evaluation of their biological effects. In particular, the possibility of using these bioactive molecules in the prevention and/or treatment of widely spread pathologies such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases is discussed.

Antioxidants in Down Syndrome: From Preclinical Studies to Clinical Trials

There is currently no effective pharmacological therapy to improve the cognitive dysfunction of individuals with Down syndrome (DS). Due to the overexpression of several chromosome 21 genes, cellular and systemic oxidative stress (OS) is one of the most important neuropathological processes that contributes to the cognitive deficits and multiple neuronal alterations in DS. In this condition, OS is an early event that negatively affects brain development, which is also aggravated in later life stages, contributing to neurodegeneration, accelerated aging, and the development of Alzheimer's disease neuropathology. Thus, therapeutic interventions that reduce OS have been proposed as a promising strategy to avoid neurodegeneration and to improve cognition in DS patients. Several antioxidant molecules have been proven to be effective in preclinical studies; however, clinical trials have failed to show evidence of the efficacy of different antioxidants to improve cognitive deficits in individuals with DS. In this review we summarize preclinical studies of cell cultures and mouse models, as well as clinical studies in which the effect of therapies which reduce oxidative stress and mitochondrial alterations on the cognitive dysfunction associated with DS have been assessed.

Science and Healthy Meals in the World: Nutritional Epigenomics and Nutrigenetics of the Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean Diet (MD), UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, has become a scientific topic of high interest due to its health benefits. The aim of this review is to pick up selected studies that report nutrigenomic or nutrigenetic data and recapitulate some of the biochemical/genomic/genetic aspects involved in the positive health effects of the MD. These include (i) the antioxidative potential of its constituents with protective effects against several diseases; (ii) the epigenetic and epigenomic effects exerted by food components, such as Indacaxanthin, Sulforaphane, and 3-Hydroxytyrosol among others, and their involvement in the modulation of miRNA expression; (iii) the existence of predisposing or protective human genotypes due to allelic diversities and the impact of the MD on disease risk. A part of the review is dedicated to the nutrigenomic effects of the main cooking methods used in the MD and also to a comparative analysis of the nutrigenomic properties of the MD and other diet regimens and non-MD-related aliments. Taking all the data into account, the traditional MD emerges as a diet with a high antioxidant and nutrigenomic modulation power, which is an example of the “Environment-Livings-Environment” relationship and an excellent patchwork of interconnected biological actions working toward human health.

Natural products, PGC-1 , and Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is a transcriptional coactivator that binds to a diverse range of transcription factors. PPARγ coactivator 1 (PGC-1) coactivators possess an extensive range of biological effects in different tissues, and play a key part in the regulation of the oxidative metabolism, consequently modulating the production of reactive oxygen species, autophagy, and mitochondrial biogenesis. Owing to these findings, a large body of studies, aiming to establish the role of PGC-1 in the neuromuscular system, has shown that PGC-1 could be a promising target for therapies targeting neuromuscular diseases. Among these, some evidence has shown that various signaling pathways linked to PGC-1α are deregulated in muscular dystrophy, leading to a reduced capacity for mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In the light of these results, any intervention aimed at activating PGC-1 could contribute towards ameliorating the progression of muscular dystrophies. PGC-1α is influenced by different patho-physiological/pharmacological stimuli. Natural products have been reported to display modulatory effects on PPARγ activation with fewer side effects in comparison to synthetic drugs. Taken together, this review summarizes the current knowledge on Duchenne muscular dystrophy, focusing on the potential effects of natural compounds, acting as regulators of PGC-1α.

Optimized microwave assisted extraction (MAE) of alkaloids and polyphenols from Berberis roots using multiple-component analysis

Berberis, one of the major sources of berberine and polyphenols, is widely accepted genus for its medicinal properties. The inclusion of these phytochemicals in different health formulations has widened its scope in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. In the present study, multi-component analysis (MCA) has been used to extract these nutraceutical compounds from Berberis jaeschkeana roots under microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) conditions. To determine the optimum extraction condition, different factors, including, microwave power, sample to solvent ratio, irradiation time, solvent pH and solvent concentration were tested under 42 experiments. The MCA includes, Plackett-Burmen and Central Composite Design and analyzes model fitness, regression coefficient (β), analysis of variance (ANOVA) and 3D response curve. The results showed significant model fitness and involvement of linear, quadratic and interactive effect of different factors. Under optimized MAE condition, [i.e. 1 g of sample extracted through 70 mL of a solution (100% methanol pH 2.0), provided microwave power of 598 W for 2 min of irradiation time], the berberine and palmatine contents were recorded as 46.38 mg g^-1 and 20.54 mg g^-1 respectively. Under optimized condition, the yield of alkaloids were found closer to the models' predicted value. Similarly, total phenolic content and antioxidant activities were also found closer to the models' predicted value. To test the suitability of the optimized MAE condition for other species i.e., Berberis asiatica, extraction of alkaloids and polyphenolics was conducted and recorded higher yield to the previous records. Moreover, under optimum extraction condition, six and seven polyphenolic compounds from B. jaeschkeana and B. asiatica were quantified respectively. The proposed MAE optimization design using MCA contributes towards faster and greener extraction of alkaloids and polyphenolics with higher yield. Moreover these greener approaches could sustainably utilize species during extract preparation and harnessing its nutraceutical and pharmaceutical potential. This study design could also be replicated on other valuable species or compounds for effective extraction of nutraceutical components and sustainable utilization of natural products.

The Food-gut Human Axis: The Effects of Diet on Gut Microbiota and Metabolome

Gut microbiota, the largest symbiont community hosted in human organism, is emerging as a pivotal player in the relationship between dietary habits and health. Oral and, especially, intestinal microbes metabolize dietary components, affecting human health by producing harmful or beneficial metabolites, which are involved in the incidence and progression of several intestinal related and non-related diseases. Habitual diet (Western, Agrarian and Mediterranean omnivore diets, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets) drives the composition of the gut microbiota and metabolome. Within the dietary components, polymers (mainly fibers, proteins, fat and polyphenols) that are not hydrolyzed by human enzymes seem to be the main leads of the metabolic pathways of gut microbiota, which in turn directly influence the human metabolome. Specific relationships between diet and microbes, microbes and metabolites, microbes and immune functions and microbes and/or their metabolites and some human diseases are being established. Dietary treatments with fibers are the most effective to benefit the metabolome profile, by improving the synthesis of short chain fatty acids and decreasing the level of molecules, such as p-cresyl sulfate, indoxyl sulfate and trimethylamine N-oxide, involved in disease state. Based on the axis diet-microbiota-health, this review aims at describing the most recent knowledge oriented towards a profitable use of diet to provide benefits to human health, both directly and indirectly, through the activity of gut microbiota.

Polyphenols in the management of brain disorders: Modulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis

The modulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis with a view to preventing and treating brain disorders became recently a hot topic for the scientific community. Dietary polyphenols are multifaceted compounds that have demonstrated to be highly advantageous to counteract inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurodegeneration, among other pathological conditions, being useful in the prevention and treatment of several chronic disorders. The potential of these compounds to prevent and treat brain disorders has not been only related to their capacity to reach the brain, depending on their chemical structure, and interact directly with brain cells, but also to their ability to modulate the communication between the brain and the gut, interfering with multiple branches of this axis. Preclinical studies have demonstrated the potential of these food bioactive compounds in brain diseases, namely, neurodevelopmental, such as Down's syndrome and Autism spectrum disorder, neurodegenerative, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, and psychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Until now, dietary polyphenols have been recognized as promising nutraceuticals to combat brain disorders. However, the impact of these compounds on the gut-brain interconnection remains poorly elucidated. Also, clinical assays are crucial to further support the beneficial effects of these compounds as demonstrated in preclinical research.

Usage of and attitudes about green tea extract and Epigallocathechin-3-gallate (EGCG) as a therapy in individuals with Down syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Usage of and views concerning alternative therapies in the DS community are not well documented. Some positive effects of green tea extracts (GTE) containing Epigallocathechin-3-gallate (EGCG) have been reported in individuals with DS and DS mouse models, but minimal improvements or detrimental effects of pure EGCG treatment have been reported in DS mouse models. Given the uncertainty about the effectiveness of these supplements, the goal of this study was to determine the relative prevalence of and attitudes about GTE/EGCG treatments among DS caregivers.

METHODS

An anonymous survey about attitudes and usage of GTE/EGCG in individuals with DS was completed by caregivers of these individuals.

RESULTS

GTE/EGCG treatment was provided by 18% of responding caregivers who were mostly younger, highly educated, and utilized scientific sources and other parents to influence their decision to use GTE/EGCG. Individuals with DS who received GTE/EGCG were characterized as less severely disabled. Most caregivers who did not give GTE/EGCG reported concerns about potential side effects and lack of effectiveness. Few caregivers consulted with medical providers about GTE/EGCG usage.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate a need for communication between caregivers, medical providers, and scientists about potential benefits and risks for adverse effects of GTE, EGCG, and other nutritional supplements in individuals with DS.

Polyphenols as food bioactive compounds in the context of Autism Spectrum Disorders: A critical mini-review

Dietary polyphenols are bioactive compounds with potential in preventing and treating several chronic disorders, mainly due to their ability to modulate key pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidant signalling pathways. Although some studies have expressed concern about their efficacy in vivo, accumulating evidence has suggested that these compounds may achieve large concentrations in the gastrointestinal tract, which may be important in the context of intestinal and of neurological disorders, via modulation of the "gut-brain axis". Autism Spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of lifelong neurodevelopmental disorders in which many patients suffer from gastrointestinal impairments. Thus, in the scope of these disorders, a growing number of studies have been focused on the microbiota-gut-brain axis. In this mini-review, we present gathered data on gut-to-brain communication in the scope of ASD and we address the advantages of polyphenols in the treatment of these disorders, presenting the more recent preclinical and clinical data on this issue. According to most studies, dietary polyphenols can be a promising strategy for the alleviation of ASD symptoms.

Mitochondria as pharmacological targets in Down syndrome

Mitochondria play a pivotal role in cellular energy-generating processes and are considered master regulators of cell life and death fate. Mitochondrial function integrates signalling networks in several metabolic pathways controlling neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. Indeed, dysfunctional mitochondria and mitochondrial-dependent activation of intracellular stress cascades are critical initiating events in many human neurodegenerative or neurodevelopmental diseases including Down syndrome (DS). It is well established that trisomy of human chromosome 21 can cause DS. DS is associated with neurodevelopmental delay, intellectual disability and early neurodegeneration. Recently, molecular mechanisms responsible for mitochondrial damage and energy deficits have been identified and characterized in several DS-derived human cells and animal models of DS. Therefore, therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondria could have great potential for new treatment regimens in DS. The purpose of this review is to highlight recent studies concerning mitochondrial impairment in DS, focusing on alterations of the molecular pathways controlling mitochondrial function. We will also discuss the effects and molecular mechanisms of naturally occurring and chemically synthetized drugs that exert neuroprotective effects through modulation of mitochondrial function and attenuation of oxidative stress. These compounds might represent novel therapeutic tools for the modulation of energy deficits in DS.

Resveratrol Ameliorates Tau Hyperphosphorylation at Ser396 Site and Oxidative Damage in Rat Hippocampal Slices Exposed to Vanadate: Implication of ERK1/2 and GSK-3β Signaling Cascades

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of resveratrol (a natural polyphenolic phytostilbene) on tau hyperphosphorylation and oxidative damage induced by sodium orthovanadate (Na₃VO₄), the prevalent species of vanadium (vanadate), in rat hippocampal slices. Our results showed that resveratrol significantly inhibited Na₃VO₄-induced hyperphosphorylation of tau at the Ser396 (p-S396-tau) site, which is upregulated in the hippocampus of Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains and principally linked to AD-associated cognitive dysfunction. Subsequent mechanistic studies revealed that reduction of ERK1/2 activation was involved in the inhibitory effect of resveratrol by inhibiting the ERK1/2 pathway with SL327 mimicking the aforementioned effect of resveratrol. Moreover, resveratrol potently induced GSK-3β Ser9 phosphorylation and reduced Na₃VO₄-induced p-S396-tau levels, which were markedly replicated by pharmacologic inhibition of GSK-3β with LiCl. These results indicate that resveratrol could suppress Na₃VO₄-induced p-S396-tau levels via downregulating ERK1/2 and GSK-3β signaling cascades in rat hippocampal slices. In addition, resveratrol diminished the increased extracellular reactive oxygen species generation and hippocampal toxicity upon long-term exposure to Na₃VO₄ or FeCl₂. Our findings strongly support the notion that resveratrol may serve as a potential nutraceutical agent for AD.

Inhibition of Drp1-mediated mitochondrial fission improves mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetics stimulating neurogenesis in hippocampal progenitor cells from a Down syndrome mouse model

Functional and structural damages to mitochondria have been critically associated with the pathogenesis of Down syndrome (DS), a human multifactorial disease caused by trisomy of chromosome 21 and associated with neurodevelopmental delay, intellectual disability and early neurodegeneration. Recently, we demonstrated in neural progenitor cells (NPCs) isolated from the hippocampus of Ts65Dn mice -a widely used model of DS - a severe impairment of mitochondrial bioenergetics and biogenesis and reduced NPC proliferation. Here we further investigated the origin of mitochondrial dysfunction in DS and explored a possible mechanistic link among alteration of mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondrial dysfunctions and defective neurogenesis in DS. We first analyzed mitochondrial network and structure by both confocal and transmission electron microscopy as well as by evaluating the levels of key proteins involved in the fission and fusion machinery. We found a fragmentation of mitochondria due to an increase in mitochondrial fission associated with an up-regulation of dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), and a decrease in mitochondrial fusion associated with a down-regulation of mitofusin 2 (Mnf2) and increased proteolysis of optic atrophy 1 (Opa1). Next, using the well-known neuroprotective agent mitochondrial division inhibitor 1 (Mdivi-1), we assessed whether the inhibition of mitochondrial fission might reverse alteration of mitochondrial dynamics and mitochondrial dysfunctions in DS neural progenitors cells. We demonstrate here for the first time, that Mdivi-1 restores mitochondrial network organization, mitochondrial energy production and ultimately improves proliferation and neuronal differentiation of NPCs. This research paves the way for the discovery of new therapeutic tools in managing some DS-associated clinical manifestations.

Caesalpinia Crista Linn. Induces Protection against DNA and Membrane Damage

Background:

Caesalpinia crista is a medicinal herb used to cure various ailments in subtropical and tropical regions of Southeast Asia.

Objective:

The objective of this evaluation of C. crista against free radical induced DNA and erythrocyte damage.

Materials and Methods:

The profiles of polyphenol and flavonoid were quantified through reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Free radical induced DNA and membrane damage were performed using H₂O₂ as oxidative agent.

Results:

The total polyphenol content of C. crista leaf ethyl acetate extract (CcEA) was 94.5 ± 3.8 mg/gGAE, CcME (C. crista leaf methanol extract) was 52.7 ± 2.8 mg/gGAE, and CcWE (C. crista leaf Water extract) was 31.84 ± 1.8 mg/gGAE. Total flavonoid content of CcEA was 60.46 ± 2.3 mg/gQE, CcME was 46.26 ± 1.8 mg/gQE, and CcWE was 20.47 ± 1.1 mg/gQE. The extracts also exhibited good antioxidant activity as confirmed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), hydroxyl scavenging, reducing power, and total antioxidant assays. Among the three extracts, CcEA and CcME showed better protection against red blood cell (RBC) hemolysis and DNA damage as confirmed by electrophoretic study. Further, Scanning electron micrograph data showed that CcEA revealed the free radical induced structural alterations in RBC.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that C. crista contains bioactive molecules and can inhibit oxidative stress and can be source of further study to use this in herbal medicine.

SUMMARY

ROS are generated under normal biological systems. These ROS generated can be scavenged by endogenous and exogenous cellular mechanisms. Environmental stress, radiation, smoke etc. elevates ROS dramatically. This leads to significant damage to cellular biomolecules like DNA and cell structures. Plants as a large reservoir of drugs for protecting DNA and cell structures from oxidative stress. Polyphenols present in the C. crista extracts acts through several mechanisms to quench free radicals. Extracts exhibited potent antioxidant properties and also protected DNA and cell membrane from oxidative damage. Hence this can be used in herbal medicine for treating oxidative stress mediated diseases.

Abbreviations used: ABTS: 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid); CcEA: C. crista leaf ethyl acetate extract; CcME: C. crista leaf methanol extract; CcWE: C. crista leaf Water extract; DPPH: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl; GAE: Gallic acid Equivalent; H₂O₂: Hydrogen Peroxide; QE: Quercetin Equivalent; RNS: Reactive Nitrogen Spevcies; ROS: Reactive Oxygen Species; SEM: Scanning Electron Microscope.

An improved method for extraction of nutraceutically important polyphenolics from Berberis jaeschkeana C.K. Schneid. fruits

Berberis jaeschkeana fruits, source of nutraceutically important polyphenolics were investigated. A total of 32 experimental run were conducted under Plackett-Burman and central composite design. Microwave power, methanol and HCl concentration significantly (p<0.05) affect extraction of polyphenols under linear, quadratic and interactive effect. The model showed good fitness with significant (p<0.05) model F-value and a non-significant lack of fit. Under optimum microwave assisted extraction (MAE) condition the total phenolics, flavonoids, tannins and antioxidant activity were in closed context with predicted values. As compared to ultrasonic (UAE) and maceration extraction (ME), MAE showed significantly (p<0.05) higher recovery of TP, TF and FRAP antioxidant activity. HPLC-DAD analysis detects a total of 10 polyphenolic compounds under MAE as compared to 9 under UAE and ME. Designing of MAE conditions showed promising results for polyphenolic antioxidants extraction as revealed by higher yield with lesser time and solvent consumption, which can contribute in green extraction technology and its application in nutraceutical industry.

The influence of variety on the content of bioactive compounds in beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.)

Vegetable are widespread throughout the world and is a major part of the human diet. From the perspective of agricultural crops that belong to the group of Beta vulgaris (beetroot, mangold, sugar beets, fodder beet) are first-rate vegetables. Especially popular is used in the food industry for the production of sugar, various vegetable juices, coloring agents, and many other products. Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) is considered one of the ten most important vegetable in the world, thanks to the content of rare natural pigments (betalains), polyphenols, flavonoids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber. In this work we evaluated content of bioactive substances, especially the content of total polyphenols, anthocyanins and antioxidant activity in several varieties (Cylindra, Kahira, Chioggia, Crosby Egyptian) of beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.). Samples of plant material were collected at full maturity stages from areas of Zeleneč (Czech Republic). Zeleneč is area without negative influences and emission sources. Samples of fresh beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) were homogenized and were prepared as an extract: 50 g cut beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) extracted by 100 mL 80% ethanol for sixteen hours. These extracts were used for analyses. The content of the total polyphenols was determined by using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent (FCR). The absorbance was measured at 765 nm of wavelength against blank. The content of total anthocyanins was measured at 520 nm wavelength of the blank. Antioxidant activity was measured using a compound DPPH˙ (2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) at 515.6 nm in the spectrophotometer. In the present experiment it was detected, that total polyphenols content in samples ranges from 218.00 mg.kg-1 to 887.75 mg.kg-1, total anthocyanins content in samples ranges from 14.48 ±0.40 mg.kg-1 to 84.50 ±4.71 mg.kg-1 and values of antioxidant activity were in interval from 8.37 ±0.29% to 21.83 ±0.35%.