Purple grape juices prevent pentylenetetrazol-induced oxidative damage in the liver and serum of Wistar rats

Impact of grape pomace flour (GPF) on immunity and immune-antioxidant-anti-inflammatory genes expression in Labeo rohita against Flavobacterium columnaris

This study evaluates the effects of dietary inclusion of grape pomace flour (GPF) on growth, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, innate-adaptive immunity, and immune genes expression in Labeo rohita against Flavobacterium columnaris. In both normal and challenged fish the growth rate, hematology and biochemical parameters significantly increased when fed with 200 and 300 mg GPF enriched diets; similarly the activities of antioxidants and innate-adaptive immune parameters, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione (GSH), phagocytic (PC), respiratory burst (RB), alternative pathway complement (ACP), lysozyme (Lyz), and total immunoglobulin M (IgM) significantly increased in both groups. Similarly, the immune, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory-related gene mRNA expression was significantly up-regulated in head kidney (HK) tissues. The challenged fish fed without GPF always exhibited lower values of all the studied parameters. The results indicate that both normal and challenged fish treated with 200 mg GPF inclusion diet had significantly enhanced growth rate, antioxidant status, and immune defense mechanisms than with 300 mg GPF diet in L. rohita against F. columnaris.

Effect of Organic and Conventional Production Methods on Fruit Yield and Nutritional Quality Parameters in Three Traditional Cretan Grape Varieties: Results from a Farm Survey

The antioxidants found in grapes and wine have been linked to health benefits in humans, but may be affected by agronomic parameters, grape type/variety, and processing. Here, we report results of a farm survey which investigated the effects of production system (organic vs. conventional) and grape variety on fruit yield, total antioxidant activity/capacity (TAA, assessed by the Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assays), and total concentrations of total phenolics (TPC) and anthocyanins (TAC) in grapes of one red (Kotsifali) and two white (Villana and/or Vidiano) traditional Cretan grape varieties. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) results showed that grape variety choice had a more substantial effect on TPC, TAA, and TAC than primary production protocols, and significant interactions were identified between production system and grape variety choice for TAATEAC. Specifically, TAATEAC was significantly (57%) higher in organic than conventional Vidiano grapes, while there was no significant effect of production system on TAATEAC in Kotsifali and Villana grapes. As expected from previous studies, the TAC was substantially higher in red Kotsifali grapes. Redundancy analysis (RDA) identified grape variety as the only strong explanatory variable/driver for yield, TPC, TAA, and TAC of table grapes, and positive associations were detected between the variety Vidiano and both TPC and TAATEAC. All other explanatory variables included in the RDA (including supplementary irrigation, orchard orientation, production system, soil type, vineyard age, plant density, and fertiliser inputs) explained only a small proportion of the additional variation.

Effects of Maternal Grape Juice Intake on Unfolded Protein Response in the Mammary Glands of Offspring of High Fat Diet Fed Rat Dams

Maternal high fat diet (HFD) and obesity during pregnancy increase female offspring′s mammary cancer risk in animal studies. We aimed to observe whether the consumption of grape juice during pregnancy can reverse this risk. During pregnancy and lactation, female Wistar rats were fed either a control or HFD and also received grape juice or tap water. At the age of 50 days, female offspring were euthanized, and mammary glands were collected to assess changes in biomarkers of increased mammary cancer risk. Maternal HFD increased the number of terminal end buds in offspring’s mammary glands and promoted cell proliferation (ki67). Maternal grape consumption blocked these effects. Apoptosis marker caspase 7, but not caspase 3, was reduced in the HFD offspring. HFD offspring also exhibited a reduction in the indicators of cell cycle regulation (p27, p21) and an ability to maintain DNA integrity (reduced p53). Maternal grape juice did not have any effect on these endpoints in the HFD offspring but reduced caspase 7 and p53 levels in the control offspring, perhaps reflecting reduced cellular stress. Maternal HFD increased oxidative stress marker GPx1 mRNA expression, and grape juice increased the levels of GPx2 in both the control and HFD offspring. HFD increased XBP1/Xbp1s, Atf4 and Atf6 mRNA expression and reduced ATF6 and CHOP protein levels. Maternal grape juice reversed the increase in XBP1/Xbp1s, Atf4 and Atf6 in the HFD offspring. PPARγ was downregulated in the HFD group, and grape juice reversed this effect. Grape juice also reduced the levels of HER2 and IRS, both in the control and HFD offspring. In conclusion, maternal grape juice supplementation reversed some of the biomarkers that are indicative of increased breast cancer risk in the HFD offspring.

Diet induces hepatocyte protection in fatty liver disease via modulation of PTEN signaling

Fatty liver disease (FLD) is characterized by accumulation of excess fat in the liver. The underlying molecular mechanism associated with the progression of the disease has been in elusive. Hepatocellular demise due to increased oxidative stress resulting in an inflammatory response may be a key feature in FLD. Recent advances in molecular biology have led to an improved understanding of the molecular pathogenesis, suggesting a critical association between the PI3K/AKT/PTEN signaling pathway and FLD. In particular, PTEN has been associated with regulating the pathogenesis of hepatocyte degeneration. Given the function of mitochondria in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and the initiation of oxidative stress, the mitochondrial antioxidant network is of interest. It is vital to balance the activity of intracellular key molecules to maintain a healthy liver. Consequently, onset of FLD may be delayed using dietary protective agents that alter PTEN signaling and reduce ROS levels. The advancement of research on dietary regulation with a focus on modulatory roles in ROS generation and PTEN associated signaling is summarized in the current study, supporting further preventive and therapeutic exploration.

Redox modulating effects of grape juice during aging

Background Polyphenols are known because of their phytochemical constituents having antioxidative properties. In this regard, grape juice is highly enriched with polyphenolic constituents, and its supplementation has been known to improve many health and age-associated diseases and risk factors. Our study was entirely dedicated to evaluating the positive effects of grape juice on young and old rats' erythrocytes and plasma. Methods Young (4 months) and old (24 months) male Wistar rats were given an oral dose of grape juice for 28 days. They were grouped into four categories (n = 6): Group I: young control rats; Group II: young grape juice treated rats; Group III: old control rats; Group IV: old treated rats. The treated groups were administered with 10 μL/g of grape juice according to body weight. The following biomarkers of antioxidant defense were measured: ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), plasma membrane redox system (PMRS), glutathione (GSH), osmotic fragility, and the decrease in lipid peroxidation measured in terms of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Results A significant increase (p<0.05) in antioxidant levels of FRAP, PMRS, and GSH and a significant decrease (p<0.05) in oxidized products such as ROS and MDA were seen in the treated rats in comparison to the controls. The decrease in ROS and rise in FRAP and PMRS levels suggest the ability of grape juice to combat oxidative stress effectively. Conclusion We propose the role of grape juice as a potent antioxidant because of its easy bioavailability and its role in combating stress. Our results also approve grape juice as a possible antiaging agent.

Grape pomace flour alleviates Pseudomonas aeruginosa-induced hepatic oxidative stress in grass carp by improving antioxidant defense

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative opportunistic bacterial pathogen in aquaculture systems being associated to extensive liver damage caused by oxidative stress in both marine and freshwater fish. Dietary supplementation with natural antioxidants is considered a rational strategy to prevent hepatic diseases involved with oxidative stress. Bio-residues resulting from the wine industry, such as grape pomace, are potential sources of bioactive phenolic compounds that can be applied as supplement for animal production. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether dietary supplementation with grape pomace flour (GPF) was able to prevent or reduce the hepatic oxidative damage of grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella, experimentally infected by P. aeruginosa. Hepatic reactive oxygen species (ROS), metabolites of nitric oxide (NOx), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and protein carbonylation levels were higher in fish experimentally infected by P. aeruginosa compared to the control group. Hepatic superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radical levels were also higher in fish experimentally infected by P. aeruginosa compared to the control group. Dietary supplementation with 300 mg/kg GPF prevented all alterations elicited by P. aeruginosa, with the exception of protein carbonylation levels. The dietary supplementation with 150 mg/kg GPF was not able to avoid alteration of the analyzed variables, being results similar to those infected (positive control). Based on these results, dietary supplementation with 300 mg/kg GPF prevented P. aeruginosa-induced liver damage in grass carp, and this protective effect occurred through prevention on excessive ROS and NOx production, as well as via prevention of lipid damage. Moreover, 300 mg/kg GPF exerted its hepatoprotective effects by improving enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense system. In summary, this supplementation can be an interesting approach to prevent P. aeruginosa-induced liver damage.

Protective Role of Polyphenols against Vascular Inflammation, Aging and Cardiovascular Disease

Aging is a major risk factor in the development of chronic diseases affecting various tissues including the cardiovascular system, muscle and bones. Age-related diseases are a consequence of the accumulation of cellular damage and reduced activity of protective stress response pathways leading to low-grade systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. Both inflammation and oxidative stress are major contributors to cellular senescence, a process in which cells stop proliferating and become dysfunctional by secreting inflammatory molecules, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and extracellular matrix components that cause inflammation and senescence in the surrounding tissue. This process is known as the senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Thus, accumulation of senescent cells over time promotes the development of age-related diseases, in part through the SASP. Polyphenols, rich in fruits and vegetables, possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities associated with protective effects against major chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this review, we discuss molecular mechanisms by which polyphenols improve anti-oxidant capacity, mitochondrial function and autophagy, while reducing oxidative stress, inflammation and cellular senescence in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs). We also discuss the therapeutic potential of polyphenols in reducing the effects of the SASP and the incidence of CVD.

Grape Juice Consumption with or without High Fat Diet during Pregnancy Reduced the Weight Gain and Improved Lipid Profile and Oxidative Stress Levels in Liver and Serum from Wistar Rats

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of high fat diet with or without grape juice during the pregnancy on gestational weight gain, biochemical parameters, and oxidative stress in plasma and liver from Wistar rats. Forty-nine rats were divided into four groups: control diet group (CD), high fat diet (HFD), grape juice and control diet (PGJCD), and grape juice and high fat diet (PGJHFD). During the treatment the weight gain of the rats was tracked. They had free access to their respective diets during 42 days of treatment. After offspring weaning, the mother rats were euthanized and blood and liver were collected. The high fat diet increased the total cholesterol and triglycerides serum levels as well as carbonyl levels in the liver, however this diet reduced the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and urea levels in serum. Grape juice consumption reduced gestational body weight gain. In liver, the juice consumption increased sulfhydryl levels and reduced the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and TBARS level, in serum the consumption reduced aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and TBARS. We can conclude that the consumption of a diet rich in fat can promotes harmful effects on health during pregnancy, however the consumption of grape juice seems to be an important alternative to prevent oxidative damages and to promote the improvement of health.

Differential effects of grape juice on gastric emptying and renal function from cisplatin-induced acute adverse toxicity

Grape skin and seeds contain large amounts of phytochemicals such as polyphenols, resveratrol, and proanthocyanidins, which possess antioxidant activities. Cisplatin is widely used in the treatment of cancer. High doses of cisplatin have also been known to produce acute adverse effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of antioxidant properties of whole grape juice (with skin and seeds) on cisplatin-induced acute gastrointestinal tract disorders and nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats. Gastric emptying is significantly increased in whole grape juice-pretreated rats when compared to cisplatin treatment alone. The expression of ghrelin mRNA of stomach is increased in rats with whole grape juice. However, pretreatment with whole grape juice did not reduce renal function markers in acute renal toxicity. No significant changes were recorded in the oxidative stress/antioxidant status parameters of any study group. In contrast, pretreatment with whole grape juice slightly improved tubular cell vacuolization, tubular dilatation, and cast formation in renal tubules. These results show that consumption of whole grape juice induces somewhat beneficial effects in preventing cisplatin-mediated dyspepsia but does not offer protection against cisplatin-induced acute renal toxicity.

Relationships among alcoholic liver disease, antioxidants, and antioxidant enzymes

Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages is a serious cause of liver disease worldwide. The metabolism of ethanol generates reactive oxygen species, which play a significant role in the deterioration of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Antioxidant phytochemicals, such as polyphenols, regulate the expression of ALD-associated proteins and peptides, namely, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase. These plant antioxidants have electrophilic activity and may induce antioxidant enzymes via the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1-NF-E2-related factor-2 pathway and antioxidant responsive elements. Furthermore, these antioxidants are reported to alleviate cell injury caused by oxidants or inflammatory cytokines. These phenomena are likely induced via the regulation of mitogen-activating protein kinase (MAPK) pathways by plant antioxidants, similar to preconditioning in ischemia-reperfusion models. Although the relationship between plant antioxidants and ALD has not been adequately investigated, plant antioxidants may be preventive for ALD because of their electrophilic and regulatory activities in the MAPK pathway.

Polyphenolic extract from Hibiscus sabdariffa reduces body fat by inhibiting hepatic lipogenesis and preadipocyte adipogenesis

Diets high in fat lead to excess lipid accumulation in adipose tissue, which is a crucial factor in the development of obesity, hepatitis, and hyperlipidemia.

Effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa extract on high fat diet-induced obesity and liver damage in hamsters

Background

Obesity is a chronic metabolic disorder associated with an increase in adipogenesis and often accompanied with fatty liver disease.

Objective

In this study, we investigated the anti-obesity effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa water extract (HSE) in vivo.

Method

Eight-weeks-old male mice were divided into six groups (n=8 per group) and were fed either normal feed, a high fat diet (HFD), HFD supplemented with different concentrations of HSE, or HFD supplemented with anthocyanin. After 10 weeks of feeding, all the blood and livers were collected for further analysis.

Results

Mesocricetus auratus hamster fed with a high-fat diet developed symptoms of obesity, as determined from their body weight change and from their plasma lipid levels. Meanwhile, HSE treatment reduced fat accumulation in the livers of hamsters fed with HFD in a concentration-dependent manner. Administration of HSE reduced the levels of liver cholesterol and triglycerides, which were elevated by HFD. Analysis of the effect of HSE on paraoxonase 1, an antioxidant liver enzyme, revealed that HSE potentially regulates lipid peroxides and protects organs from oxidation-associated damage. The markers of liver damage such as serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels that were elevated by HFD were also reduced on HSE treatment. The effects of HSE were as effective as treatment with anthocyanin; therefore the anthocyanins present in the HSE may play a crucial role in the protection established against HFD-induced obesity.

Conclusions

In conclusion HSE administration constitutes an effective and viable treatment strategy against the development and consequences of obesity.

The role of flavonoids on oxidative stress in epilepsy

Backgrounds. Oxidative stress can result from excessive free-radical production and it is likely implicated as a possible mechanism involved in the initiation and progression of epileptogenesis. Flavonoids can protect the brain from oxidative stress. In the central nervous system (CNS) several flavonoids bind to the benzodiazepine site on the GABA_A-receptor resulting in anticonvulsive effects. Objective. This review provides an overview about the role of flavonoids in oxidative stress in epilepsy. The mechanism of action of flavonoids and its relation to the chemical structure is also discussed. Results/Conclusions. There is evidence that suggests that flavonoids have potential for neuroprotection in epilepsy.

Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant Potential of Organic and Conventional Grape Juices in Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet

The objective of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effect of the chronic use of conventional (CGJ) or organic (OGJ) grape juice from the Bordeaux variety grape on oxidative stress and cytoarchitecture in the liver of rats supplemented with a high-fat diet (HFD) for three months. The results demonstrated that HFD induced an increase in thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), catalase (CAT) activity and 2′,7′-dihydrodichlorofluorescein (DCFH) oxidation and a decrease in sulfhydryl content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities. HFD also induced hepatocellular degeneration and steatosis. These alterations were prevented by CGJ and OGJ, where OGJ was more effective. Therefore, it was concluded that HFD induced oxidative stress and liver damage and that the chronic use of grape juice was able to prevent these alterations.

Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of an organic grapevine leaf (Vitis labrusca L.) extract in diabetic rats

Changes on metabolic, biochemical and oxidative parameters in the livers of diabetic rats after chronic administration of an aqueous extract of organic grapevine leaves.

The effects of vitamin B6 on lens antioxidant system in valproic acid-administered rats

Valproic acid (VPA, 2-propyl pentanoic acid) is a broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug (AED) and is commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorders and epilepsy. AEDs are known to result in vascular disturbances. Vitamin B6 (Vit B6) is water soluble vitamin essential for normal growth, development, and metabolism. In this study, we aimed to investigate the protective effects of Vit B6 against VPA-induced lens damage in experimental animals. In this study, male 4-month-old, Sprague-Dawley rats were used. The animals were divided into four groups. Group I was intact control animals. Group II rats were administered with Vit B6 (50 mg/kg/day) for 7 days. Group III rats were administered with only VPA (500 mg/kg/day) for 7 days. Group IV was given VPA + Vit B6 (in a same dose and time). Vit B6 was given to rats by gavage and VPA was given by intraperitoneally. On the 8th day of experiment, all of the animals were fasted overnight and then killed under ether anesthesia. Lens tissues were taken from animals, homogenized in 0.9% saline to make up a 10% homogenate. The homogenates was used for glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein levels, and enzyme analysis. In VPA groups, levels of lens GSH and LPO and activities of glutathione- S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and aldose reductase were increased, while superoxide dismutase activity was decreased. Treatment with Vit B6 reversed these effects. These results demonstrated that administration of Vit B6 is potentially beneficial agent to reduce the lens damage in VPA toxicity, probably by decreasing oxidative stress.