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Supriya R, Shishvan SR, Kefayati M, Abednatanzi H, Razi O, Bagheri R, Escobar KA, Pashaei Z, Saeidi A, Shahrbanian S, Bagchi S, Sengupta P, Al Kiyumi MH, Heinrich KM, Zouhal H. Astaxanthin Supplementation Augments the Benefits of CrossFit Workouts on Semaphorin 3C and Other Adipokines in Males with Obesity. Nutrients 2023; 15:4803. [PMID: 38004197 PMCID: PMC10675419 DOI: 10.3390/nu15224803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Regular physical activity and the use of nutritional supplements, including antioxidants, are recognized as efficacious approaches for the prevention and mitigation of obesity-related complications. This study investigated the effects of 12 weeks of CrossFit training combined with astaxanthin (ASX) supplementation on some plasma adipokines in males with obesity. Sixty-eight males with obesity (BMI: 33.6 ± 1.4 kg·m-2) were randomly assigned into four groups: the control group (CG; n = 11), ASX supplementation group (SG; n = 11), CrossFit group (TG; n = 11), and training plus supplement group (TSG; n = 11). Participants underwent 12 weeks of supplementation with ASX or placebo (20 mg/day capsule daily), CrossFit training, or a combination of both interventions. Plasma levels of semaphorin 3C (SEMA3C), apelin, chemerin, omentin1, visfatin, resistin, adiponectin, leptin, vaspin, and RBP4 were measured 72 h before the first training session and after the last training session. The plasma levels of all measured adipokines were significantly altered in SG, TG, and TSG groups (p < 0.05). The reduction of resistin was significantly higher in TSG than in SG (p < 0.05). The plasma levels of omentin1 were significantly higher in both training groups of TG and TSG than SG (p < 0.05), although such a meaningful difference was not observed between both training groups (p > 0.05). Significant differences were found in the reductions of plasma levels of vaspin, visfatin, apelin, RBP4, chemerin, and SEMA3C between the SG and TSG groups (p < 0.05). The study found that a 12-week intervention using ASX supplementation and CrossFit exercises resulted in significant improvements in several adipokines among male individuals with obesity. Notably, the combined approach of supplementation and training had the most pronounced results. The findings presented in this study indicate that the supplementation of ASX and participation in CrossFit exercise have the potential to be effective therapies in mitigating complications associated with obesity and enhancing metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashmi Supriya
- Centre for Health and Exercise Science Research, SPEH, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China;
| | - Sevda Rahbari Shishvan
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 15847-15414, Iran; (S.R.S.); (M.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Movahed Kefayati
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 15847-15414, Iran; (S.R.S.); (M.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Hossein Abednatanzi
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 15847-15414, Iran; (S.R.S.); (M.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Omid Razi
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Science, Razi University, Kermanshah 94Q5+6G3, Iran;
| | - Reza Bagheri
- Department of Exercise Physiology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan 81746-73441, Iran;
| | - Kurt A. Escobar
- Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA;
| | - Zhaleh Pashaei
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 51666-16471, Iran;
| | - Ayoub Saeidi
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Kurdistan 66177-15175, Iran
| | - Shahnaz Shahrbanian
- Department of Sport Science, Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14117-13116, Iran;
| | - Sovan Bagchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman 4184, United Arab Emirates; (S.B.); (P.S.)
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman 4184, United Arab Emirates; (S.B.); (P.S.)
| | - Maisa Hamed Al Kiyumi
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat P.O. Box 35, Oman;
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat P.O. Box 35, Oman
| | - Katie M. Heinrich
- Department of Kinesiology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA;
- Research Department, The Phoenix, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA
| | - Hassane Zouhal
- M2S (Laboratoire Mouvement, Sport, Santé)—EA 1274, Université de Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France
- Institut International des Sciences du Sport (2I2S), 35850 Irodouer, France
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Mohammadi S, Naseri M, Faridi N, Zareie P, Zare L, Mirnajafi-Zadeh J, Bathaie SZ. Saffron carotenoids reversed the UCMS-induced depression and anxiety in rats: Behavioral and biochemical parameters, and hippocampal BDNF/ERK/CREB and NR2B signaling markers. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 119:154989. [PMID: 37506574 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a debilitating condition that affects the mind and the individual's body. The improving effects of saffron on depression and anxiety have long been discussed, with limited information about the molecular mechanism of action. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE Investigating the effect of saffron carotenoids, Crocin and Crocetin, on depression and anxiety in rats by emphasizing some signaling pathways involved. STUDY DESIGN Depression and anxiety were induced in rats via unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS). Then different rat groups were treated with Crocin, Crocetin, Fluoxetine, and vehicle. Behavioral tests were done before and after treatment. METHODS The serum Serotonin and Corticosterone and the expression of some hippocampal signaling proteins were studied. Furthermore, bioinformatics tools were used to predict the interactions of Crocin/ Crocetin with the Serotonin transporter and NMDA receptor subunit NR2B. Then, the patch-clamp was used to study the interaction of Crocetin with the NMDA receptor. RESULTS Various behavioral tests confirmed the induction of depression and the improvement of depression by these natural carotenoids. In addition, Crocin/ Crocetin significantly increased the decreased serum Serotonin and reduced the increased serum Corticosterone in the depressed groups. They also increased or caused a trend of increase in the CREB, ERK, BAD, BDNF, p11, and 5-HT1B expression in the hippocampus of the depressed groups. In addition, there were an increase or a trend in p-CREB/CREB, p-ERK1/2 /ERK1/2, and p-BAD/BAD ratios in the Crocin/ Crocetin treated depressed groups. However, the NR2B and FOXO3a expression showed a trend of decrease in depressed groups after treatment. The bioinformatics data indicated that Crocin/ Crocetin could bind to the Serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) and NR2B subunit of the NMDA receptor. Both carotenoids bind to the same site as Fluoxetine in the SLC6A4. However, they bound to different sites on the NR2B. So, Crocetin binds to NR2B at the same site as Ifenprodil. But Crocin bound to another site. The whole cell patch-clamp recording on the normal rat hippocampus revealed a significant decrease in the NMDA peak amplitude after Crocetin treatment, indicating its inhibitory effect on this receptor. CONCLUSION The antidepressant activities of Crocin/ Crocetin are possibly due to their effects on Serotonin and Corticosterone serum concentrations, NR2B expression, and the downstream signaling pathways. Furthermore, these natural carotenoids, like Fluoxetine, induced an increasing tendency in p11 and 5HT1B in depressed rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Mohammadi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Naseri
- Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nassim Faridi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Zareie
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Zare
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Mirnajafi-Zadeh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Zahra Bathaie
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; Institute for Natural Products and Medicinal Plants, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; UCLA-DOE Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America.
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Delam H, Keshtkaran Z, Shokrpour N, Eidi A, Bazrafshan MR. The effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) herbal tea on happiness in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:176. [PMID: 37264347 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04014-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that menopause can be associated with a variety of negative psychological changes such as depression and anxiety, and improving the mental health status of women during menopause is one of the important priorities and challenges of the health system. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L., Iridaceae) herbal tea on happiness in postmenopausal women. METHODS In this randomized clinical trial which was conducted in 2021, 72 postmenopausal women were enrolled and divided into intervention and control groups. The randomization blocks method was used for random allocation, and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire was utilized to measure the scores. The intervention included the use of 30 mg of dried stigmas of the saffron plant, which was boiled once (in the morning, in 300 ml of boiling water for 10-15 min) and consumed with white rock candy as one cup of saffron tea daily. To compare the trend of changes and after removing the effect of other variables, generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used. RESULTS There was no significant difference between the intervention and control groups in any of the quantitative and qualitative characteristics (p > 0.05). The results of paired samples t-test showed that the happiness mean score in the intervention group increased significantly (p < 0.001) from 42.93 ± 8.54 to 61.58 ± 8.24, while in the control group, there was no significant difference between the happiness mean score at the beginning and end of the study (p = 0.861). Also, after applying the treatment program in the intervention group, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the happiness mean scores (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Saffron herbal tea had a positive effect on reducing depression and increasing the happiness score; thus, it is recommended that it should be used as a complementary treatment in consultation with the treating physician. TRIAL REGISTRATION The present study was registered with the code of IRCT20210403050818N1 (Registration date: 09/04/2021) in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials. It was also approved by the Ethics Committee of Larestan University of Medical Sciences (Approval ID: IR.LARUMS.REC.1399.017).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Delam
- Student Research Committee, Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran
- Imam Reza Teaching Hospital, Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran
| | - Zahra Keshtkaran
- Community Based Psychiatric Care Research Center, Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nasrin Shokrpour
- English Department, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ahmadreza Eidi
- Student Research Committee, Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Rafi Bazrafshan
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing, Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran.
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Korczak M, Pilecki M, Granica S, Gorczynska A, Pawłowska KA, Piwowarski JP. Phytotherapy of mood disorders in the light of microbiota-gut-brain axis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 111:154642. [PMID: 36641978 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical research in natural product-based psychopharmacology has revealed a variety of promising herbal medicines that may provide benefit in the treatment of mild mood disorders, however failed to unambiguously indicate pharmacologically active constituents. The emerging role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis opens new possibilities in the search for effective methods of treatment and prevention of mood disorders. PURPOSE Considering the clinically proven effectiveness juxtaposed with inconsistencies regarding the indication of active principles for many medicinal plants applied in the treatment of anxiety and depression, the aim of the review is to look at their therapeutic properties from the perspective of the microbiota-gut-brain axis. METHOD A literature-based survey was performed using Scopus, Pubmed, and Google Scholar databases. The current state of knowledge regarding Hypericum perforatum, Valeriana officinalis, Piper methysticum, Passiflora incarnata, Humulus lupulus, Melissa officinalis, Lavandula officinalis, and Rhodiola rosea in terms of their antimicrobial activity, bioavailability, clinical effectiveness in depression/anxiety and gut microbiota - natural products interaction was summarized and analyzed. RESULTS Recent studies have provided direct and indirect evidence that herbal extracts and isolated compounds are potent modulators of gut microbiota structure. Additionally, some of the formed postbiotic metabolites exert positive effects and ameliorate depression-related behaviors in animal models of mood disorders. The review underlines the gap in research on natural products - gut microbiota interaction in the context of mood disorders. CONCLUSION Modification of microbiota-gut-brain axis by natural products is a plausible explanation of their therapeutic properties. Future studies evaluating the effectiveness of herbal medicine and isolated compounds in treating mild mood disorders should consider the bidirectional interplay between phytoconstituents and the gut microbiota community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Korczak
- Microbiota Lab, Department of Pharmacognosy and Molecular Basis of Phytotherapy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Pilecki
- Department of Psychiatry, Collegium Medicum, Jagiellonian University, Cracow, Poland
| | - Sebastian Granica
- Microbiota Lab, Department of Pharmacognosy and Molecular Basis of Phytotherapy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Gorczynska
- Microbiota Lab, Department of Pharmacognosy and Molecular Basis of Phytotherapy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karolina A Pawłowska
- Microbiota Lab, Department of Pharmacognosy and Molecular Basis of Phytotherapy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub P Piwowarski
- Microbiota Lab, Department of Pharmacognosy and Molecular Basis of Phytotherapy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
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Are Women with Normal-Weight Obesity at Higher Risk for Cardiometabolic Disorders? Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020341. [PMID: 36830878 PMCID: PMC9953250 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the cardiometabolic abnormalities in women with normal-weight obesity (NWO) in comparison with lean, overweight, and obese women. METHODS This cross-sectional study evaluated the assessment of cardiometabolic abnormalities of women with NWO compared to lean, overweight, and obese women. NWO was defined as a BMI < 25 kg.m-2 and a BFP higher than 30%. Anthropometric variables, cardiometabolic abnormality markers (fasting blood glucose (FBG), blood pressure (BP), lipid profile, insulin resistance, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)), and liver enzymes were also examined. RESULTS Significant differences were observed in HDL concentrations between NWO, lean, and obese participants (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in FBG, insulin resistance, liver enzymes, or cholesterol between groups (p > 0.05). The prevalence of the abnormal metabolic phenotype was higher in NWO compared to the lean group (4.0% and 24.1%, respectively; p < 0.05). Women with type 2 and 3 obesity had abnormal metabolic profiles (60.9% and 73.9%, respectively) compared to NWO participants (p < 0.01). The NWO group had a significantly higher incidence of cardiometabolic abnormalities compared to the lean participants (p < 0.05), while the type 2 and 3 obese individuals had significantly higher incidences compared to the NWO group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Individuals with NWO had a significantly higher incidence of cardiometabolic abnormalities when compared to lean participants. These abnormalities strongly relate to BFP and waist circumferences.
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Matraszek-Gawron R, Chwil M, Terlecki K, Skoczylas MM. Current Knowledge of the Antidepressant Activity of Chemical Compounds from Crocus sativus L. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 16:58. [PMID: 36678554 PMCID: PMC9860663 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychotropic effect of Crocus sativus L. (family Iridaceae) biologically active chemical compounds are quite well documented and they can therefore be used in addition to the conventional pharmacological treatment of depression. This systematic review on antidepressant compounds in saffron crocus and their mechanisms of action and side effects is based on publications released between 1995−2022 and data indexed in 15 databases under the following search terms: antidepressant effect, central nervous system, Crocus sativus, cognitive impairement, crocin, crocetin, depression, dopamine, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, picrocrocin, phytotherapy, neurotransmitters, safranal, saffron, serotonin, and biologically active compounds. The comparative analysis of the publications was based on 414 original research papers. The investigated literature indicates the effectiveness and safety of aqueous and alcoholic extracts and biologically active chemical compounds (alkaloids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, flavonoid, phenolic, saponins, and terpenoids) isolated from various organs (corms, leaves, flower petal, and stigmas) in adjuvant treatment of depression and anxiety. Monoamine reuptake inhibition, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-α agonism are the main proposed mechanism of the antidepressant action. The antidepressant and neuroprotective effect of extract components is associated with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The mechanism of their action, interactions with conventional drugs and other herbal preparations and the safety of use are not fully understood; therefore, further detailed research in this field is necessary. The presented results regarding the application of C. sativus in phytotherapy are promising in terms of the use of herbal preparations to support the treatment of depression. This is particularly important given the steady increase in the incidence of this disease worldwide and social effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Matraszek-Gawron
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mirosława Chwil
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Karol Terlecki
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Medical University of Lublin, Racławickie 1 Street, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Marian Skoczylas
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
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Shi J, Yang Y, Zhou X, Zhao L, Li X, Yusuf A, Hosseini MSMZ, Sefidkon F, Hu X. The current status of old traditional medicine introduced from Persia to China. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:953352. [PMID: 36188609 PMCID: PMC9515588 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.953352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) includes over ten thousand herbal medicines, some of which were introduced from outside countries and territories. The Silk Road enabled the exchange of merchandise such as teas, silks, carpets, and medicines between the East and West of the Eurasia continent. During this time, the ‘Compendium of Materia Medica’ (CMM) was composed by a traditional medicine practitioner, Shizhen Li (1,518–1,593) of the Ming Dynasty. This epoch-making masterpiece collected knowledge of traditional medical materials and treatments in China from the 16th century and before in utmost detail, including the origin where a material was obtained. Of 1892 medical materials from the CMM, 46 came from Persia (now Iran). In this study, the basic information of these 46 materials, including the time of introduction, the medicinal value in TCM theory, together with the current status of these medicines in China and Iran, are summarized. It is found that 20 herbs and four stones out of the 46 materials are registered as medicinal materials in the latest China Pharmacopoeia. Now most of these herbs and stones are distributed in China or replacements are available but saffron, ferula, myrrh, and olibanum are still highly dependent on imports. This study may contribute to the further development, exchange, and internationalization of traditional medicine of various backgrounds in the world, given the barriers of transportation and language are largely eased in nowadays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinmin Shi
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Innovation Academy of International Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials, National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center in Hubei for Medicinal Plant Breeding and Cultivation, Medicinal Plant Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Institute for Medicinal Plants, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Innovation Academy of International Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials, National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center in Hubei for Medicinal Plant Breeding and Cultivation, Medicinal Plant Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Institute for Medicinal Plants, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinxin Zhou
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Innovation Academy of International Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials, National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center in Hubei for Medicinal Plant Breeding and Cultivation, Medicinal Plant Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Institute for Medicinal Plants, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lijun Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Xiaohua Li
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Innovation Academy of International Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials, National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center in Hubei for Medicinal Plant Breeding and Cultivation, Medicinal Plant Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Institute for Medicinal Plants, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Abdullah Yusuf
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Laboratory of Xinjiang Native Medicinal and Edible Plant Resources Chemistry. Kashi University, Kashgar, China
| | - Mohaddeseh S. M. Z. Hosseini
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Innovation Academy of International Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials, National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center in Hubei for Medicinal Plant Breeding and Cultivation, Medicinal Plant Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Institute for Medicinal Plants, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | | | - Xuebo Hu
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Innovation Academy of International Traditional Chinese Medicinal Materials, National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center in Hubei for Medicinal Plant Breeding and Cultivation, Medicinal Plant Engineering Research Center of Hubei Province, Institute for Medicinal Plants, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Xuebo Hu,
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Chongtham A, Yoo JH, Chin TM, Akingbesote ND, Huda A, Marsh JL, Khoshnan A. Gut Bacteria Regulate the Pathogenesis of Huntington's Disease in Drosophila Model. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:902205. [PMID: 35757549 PMCID: PMC9215115 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.902205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Changes in the composition of gut microbiota are implicated in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we investigated whether gut bacteria affect the progression of Huntington’s disease (HD) in transgenic Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) models expressing full-length or N-terminal fragments of human mutant huntingtin (HTT) protein. We find that elimination of commensal gut bacteria by antibiotics reduces the aggregation of amyloidogenic N-terminal fragments of HTT and delays the development of motor defects. Conversely, colonization of HD flies with Escherichia coli (E. coli), a known pathobiont of human gut with links to neurodegeneration and other morbidities, accelerates HTT aggregation, aggravates immobility, and shortens lifespan. Similar to antibiotics, treatment of HD flies with small compounds such as luteolin, a flavone, or crocin a beta-carotenoid, ameliorates disease phenotypes, and promotes survival. Crocin prevents colonization of E. coli in the gut and alters the levels of commensal bacteria, which may be linked to its protective effects. The opposing effects of E. coli and crocin on HTT aggregation, motor defects, and survival in transgenic Drosophila models support the involvement of gut-brain networks in the pathogenesis of HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjalika Chongtham
- Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Jung Hyun Yoo
- Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Theodore M Chin
- Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Ngozi D Akingbesote
- Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Ainul Huda
- Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - J Lawrence Marsh
- Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Ali Khoshnan
- Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, CA, United States
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Lopresti AL, Smith SJ. An examination into the mental and physical effects of a saffron extract (affron®) in recreationally-active adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2022; 19:219-238. [PMID: 35813851 PMCID: PMC9261746 DOI: 10.1080/15502783.2022.2083455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian L Lopresti
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- Murdoch University, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Perth, Australia
| | - Stephen J Smith
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- Murdoch University, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Perth, Australia
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Circulating Human Serum Metabolites Derived from the Intake of a Saffron Extract (Safr'Inside TM) Protect Neurons from Oxidative Stress: Consideration for Depressive Disorders. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14071511. [PMID: 35406124 PMCID: PMC9002571 DOI: 10.3390/nu14071511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Increases in oxidative stress have been reported to play a central role in the vulnerability to depression, and antidepressant drugs may reduce increased oxidative stress in patients. Among the plants exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, saffron, a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, is also known for its positive effects on depression, potentially through its SSRI-like properties. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects and their health benefits for humans are currently unclear. Using an original ex vivo clinical approach, we demonstrated for the first time that the circulating human metabolites produced following saffron intake (Safr’InsideTM) protect human neurons from oxidative-stress-induced neurotoxicity by preserving cell viability and increasing BNDF production. In particular, the metabolites significantly stimulated both dopamine and serotonin release. In addition, the saffron’s metabolites were also able to protect serotonergic tone by inhibiting the expression of the serotonin transporter SERT and down-regulating serotonin metabolism. Altogether, these data provide new biochemical insights into the mechanisms underlying the beneficial impact of saffron on neuronal viability and activity in humans, in the context of oxidative stress related to depression.
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Siddiqui SA, Ali Redha A, Snoeck ER, Singh S, Simal-Gandara J, Ibrahim SA, Jafari SM. Anti-Depressant Properties of Crocin Molecules in Saffron. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27072076. [PMID: 35408474 PMCID: PMC9000812 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27072076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Saffron is a valued herb, obtained from the stigmas of the C. sativus Linn (Iridaceae), with therapeutic effects. It has been described in pharmacopoeias to be variously acting, including as an anti-depressant, anti-carcinogen, and stimulant agent. The therapeutic effects of saffron are harbored in its bioactive molecules, notably crocins, the subject of this paper. Crocins have been demonstrated to act as a monoamine oxidase type A and B inhibitor. Furthermore, saffron petal extracts have experimentally been shown to impact contractile response in electrical field stimulation. Other research suggests that saffron also inhibits the reuptake of monoamines, exhibits N-methyl-d-aspartate antagonism, and improves brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling. A host of experimental studies found saffron/crocin to be similarly effective as fluoxetine and imipramine in the treatment of depression disorders. Saffron and crocins propose a natural solution to combat depressive disorders. However, some hurdles, such as stability and delivery, need to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahida Anusha Siddiqui
- Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Technical University of Munich, Essigberg 3, 94315 Straubing, Germany;
- German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.), 49610 D-Quakenbrück, Germany
| | - Ali Ali Redha
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK;
- Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Edgar Remmet Snoeck
- Food Technology Study Programme, HAS University of Applied Sciences, Onderwijsboulevard 221, 5223 DE ‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands;
| | - Shubhra Singh
- Department of Tropical Agriculture and International Cooperation, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, No. 1, Xuefu Rd, Neipu Township, Pingtung City 912, Taiwan;
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidade de Vigo, E-32004 Ourense, Spain;
| | - Salam A. Ibrahim
- Food and Nutritional Sciences Program, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, E. Market Street, 1601, Greensboro, NC 24711, USA;
| | - Seid Mahdi Jafari
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidade de Vigo, E-32004 Ourense, Spain;
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan 49189, Iran
- Correspondence:
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Moghadam BH, Rashidlamir A, Hosseini SRA, Gaeini AA, Kaviani M. The Effects of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in conjunction with Concurrent Training on body composition, glycemic status, and inflammatory markers in obese men with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized double-blind clinical trial. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 88:3256-3271. [PMID: 35001410 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Chronic inflammation is one of the major challenges in the management of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Our primary aim was to assess the anti-inflammatory effects of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) supplementation and concurrent training in obese men with T2DM. METHODS Sixty obese men with T2DM (age = 39 ± 5 years; body mass = 93.9 ± 6 kg) were randomly assigned to four groups; concurrent training + placebo (CT; n = 15), saffron supplementation (S; n = 15), concurrent training + saffron supplementation (CTS; n = 15), or control (CON; n = 15). The participants in the CT group performed concurrent training (resistance + aerobic) three times per week for 12 weeks and received daily one pill of placebo (maltodextrin); the participants in the S group supplemented with one pill of 100 mg of saffron daily, and the participants in the CTS group participated in both saffron and training intervention while CON group continued regular lifestyle (no training or no supplementation). Inflammatory markers, body composition (evaluated by a multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance device; Jawon X-Contact 356), and metabolic profile were evaluated before and after interventions. RESULTS All three interventions significantly (p<0.05) decreased TNF-α (CT = -4.22, S = -1.91, CTS = -9.69 pg/mL), hs-CRP (CT = -0.13, S = -0.1, CTS = -0.32 ng/mL), IL-6 (CT = -6.84, S = -6.36, CTS = -13.55 pg/mL), IL-1β (CT = -8.85, S = -6.46, CTS = -19.8 pg/mL), FBG (CT = -6.97, S = -2.45, CTS = -13.86 mg/dL), insulin (CT = -0.13, S = -0.03, CTS = -0.21 mU/L), HOMA-IR (CT = -0.12, S = -0.04, CTS = -0.21), HbA1c (CT = -0.17, S = -0.11, CTS = -0.26 %), and increased IL-10 (CT = 1.09, S= 0.53, CTS = 2.27 pg/mL) concentrations. There was a positive correlation between changes in BFP with hs-CRP, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, and IL-10 concentrations across the intervention groups. Additionally, significant differences were observed between the changes for all variables in the CTS group compared to CT, S, and CON groups (p<0.05) CONCLUSION: It seems that an interactive of saffron supplementation and concurrent training has more efficient effects on the anti-inflammatory status compared to the saffron supplementation or concurrent training alone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amir Rashidlamir
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Ferdowsi university of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Abbas Ali Gaeini
- Department of Exercise Physiology, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Kaviani
- School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Ghobadi H, Attarzadeh Hosseini SR, Rashidlamir A, Forbes SC. Auto-regulatory progressive training compared to linear programming on muscular strength, endurance, and body composition in recreationally active males. Eur J Sport Sci 2021; 22:1543-1554. [PMID: 34346831 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.1963321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
We compared eight weeks of auto-regulatory progressive resistance exercise (APRE) to linear programming resistance exercise (LPRE) on changes in muscular strength and endurance, anaerobic power, and body composition in recreationally active males. Twenty-four recreationally active males (age: 24 ± 3 y; body mass: 78.3 ± 10.3 kg) were randomly assigned to one of two groups: APRE (n = 12) and LPRE (n = 12). Both groups performed supervised training 3x/week for eight weeks Upper and lower body muscular strength and endurance, anaerobic power, and body composition were assessed at baseline, week 4, and 48 h after the final training session. Repeated measures ANOVA and hedge's g effect sizes (ES) were used to interpret the data. After training, there was a significant increase in absolute leg press (APRE: ES = 2.23; LPRE: ES = 1.35) and chest press strength (APRE: ES = 2.19; LPRE: ES = 0.98), upper (APRE: ES = 2.50; LPRE: ES = 1.074), and lower body peak power (APRE: ES = 0.78; LPRE: ES = 0.39), and upper (APRE: ES = 2.50; LPRE: ES = 1.60) and lower mean power (APRE: ES = 0.99; LPRE: ES = 0.54) over time in both groups compared to baseline. Following APRE, absolute leg press strength was significantly greater compared to LPRE (p = 0.04; ES = 2.41, ES = 1.36), while absolute chest press strength gains were similar between groups (p = 0.08; ES = 2.21, ES = 0.98). Skeletal muscle mass significantly increased similarly in both groups over time (APRE: ES = 0.46; LPRE: ES = 0.21), while there was no change over time or between groups for body fat %. APRE and LPRE were both effective at improving anaerobic power and skeletal muscle mass; however, APRE was more effective at improving lower body muscular strength in recreationally active males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Ghobadi
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Amir Rashidlamir
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Scott C Forbes
- Department of Physical Education, Brandon University, Brandon, MB, Canada
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The Effect of Saffron Supplementation on Blood Pressure in Adults: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082736. [PMID: 34444896 PMCID: PMC8398601 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The favorable influences of saffron supplementation on metabolic diseases have previously been shown. We aimed to assess the effects of saffron supplementation on blood pressure in adults. Methods: A systematic search was performed in Scopus, Embase, and the Cochrane library databases to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to the effect of saffron supplementation on blood pressure in adults up to March 2021. The primary search yielded 182 publications, of which eight RCTs were eligible. Results: Our results showed that saffron supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (weighted mean difference (WMD): −0.65 mmHg; 95% CI: −1.12 to −0.18, p = 0.006) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD: −1.23 mmHg; 95% CI: −1.64 to −0.81, p < 0.001). Moreover, saffron supplementation reduced DBP in a non-linear fashion, based on duration (r = −2.45, p-nonlinearity = 0.008). Conclusions: Saffron supplementation may significantly improve both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults. It should be noted that the hypotensive effects of saffron supplementation were small and may not reach clinical importance.
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