Molecular mechanisms of cardioprotection by a novel grape seed proanthocyanidin extract

Phenolics and flavonoids from Polygonum posumbu and comparision of flavonoid compounds content in different tissues (leaves, stems and roots)

The growing global need for antioxidative phenolics and flavonoids for maintenance of human health resulted into search of new sustainable unexplored medicinal plants used by the traditional healers for various ailments. Many synthetic based products of phenolics and flavonoids have been used, however the demand of eco-friendly, natural herbal based products are increasing. As a result, the current study aims to explore traditional potential of Polygonum posumbu related to its phenolics and flavonoids. Optimization of extraction parameters were employed which includes: solvent selection (water, ethanol, methanol, acetone and ethyl acetate), ethanol composition (40-100%), solvent to sample ratio (30-70 ml/g), temperature (50-80 °C) and time (1-5 h). Under optimal conditions, total phenolics (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), the extract yield (EY) and antioxidant activities of leaves extract were 162.79 ± 2.28 mg GAE/g, 56.57 ± 6.22 mg QE/g 27.96 ± 0.91%, and 27.34 ± 0.98 μg/ml respectively. Seven flavonoids were quantified in different tissues with significant (p ≤ 0.05) differences found in flavonoids contents in different parts of the plant. Highest concentration of flavonoids was observed in stems: (-)-epicatechin-53.19 ± 1.13 mg/g, myricetin-15.90 ± 0.13 mg/g, quercetin-50.66 ± 0.08 mg/g, luteolin-43.10 ± 0.47 mg/g, apigenin-16.73 ± 0.43 mg/g. Leaves and roots had the highest amount of genistein (05.06 ± 0.01 mg/g) and kaempferol (11.13 ± 0.06 mg/g) respectively. From the study it had been found that Polygonum posumbu possess a very good amount of phenolics and flavonoids and this study details first ever investigation on this plant in terms of phenolics and flavonoids. Therefore, this study enhanced the importance of this bioresource in functional food or nutraceutical industries.

Dietary grape seed proanthocyanidin extract supplementation improves antioxidant capacity and lipid metabolism in finishing pigs

Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) plays a significant role in body health, including improving antioxidant capacity and maintaining lipid metabolism stability. However, whether dietary GSPE supplementation can improve lipid metabolism in finishing pigs remains unclear. Here 18 castrated male Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire finishing pigs were randomly divided into three groups with six replicates and one pig per replicate. Pigs were fed a basal diet (control), a basal diet supplemented with 100 mg/kg GSPE, or a basal diet supplemented with 200 mg/kg GSPE for 30 days. Antioxidant analysis showed that dietary 200 mg/kg GSPE supplementation increased glutathione, total antioxidant capacity and glutathione peroxidase levels, and reduced malondialdehyde levels in serum, muscle and liver. Dietary 200 mg/kg GSPE supplementation also upregulated the mRNA and protein levels of nuclear-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Lipid metabolism analysis showed that dietary GSPE supplementation increased serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and reduced serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. Besides, GPSE upregulated the mRNA expression of lipolysis- and fatty acid oxidation-related genes downregulated the mRNA expression of lipogenesis-related genes, and activated the AMPK signal in finishing pigs. Together, we provided evidence that dietary GSPE supplementation improved the antioxidant capacity and lipid metabolism in finishing pigs.

Functional Characterization and Toxicological Study of Proanthocyanidins in Weaned Pigs

Proanthocyanidin (PRO) has been implicated in a variety of biological functions, such as antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-obesity effects. However, little is known about its safety dose for animals. To explore its safety and effect on growth performance and intestinal health, thirty weaned pigs were divided into five groups and fed with basal diet containing 0, 30, 300, 600, and 1200 mg/kg PRO for 42 days. Results showed that PRO supplementation at 30 and 300 mg/kg significantly decreased the feed/gain ratio (F:G) and diarrhea rate (p < 0.05). PRO also increased the digestibilities of dry matter, ether extract, gross energy, and ash (p < 0.05). Interestingly, PRO not only elevated the villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth (V/C) in duodenum and jejunum (p < 0.01), but also decreased the crypt depth in the duodenum (p < 0.01). Moreover, PRO supplementation at 30, 300, and 600 mg/kg elevated the expression levels of mucin 1 (MUC1), MUC2, and fatty acid transport protein 1 (FATP-1) in the duodenum (p < 0.05). The expression levels of FATP-4 in jejunum and ileum were also elevated by PRO (p < 0.05). Importantly, histopathological findings of tissues (e.g., heart, liver, kidney, spleen, lungs, pancreas, thymus, mesenteric lymph nodes, stomach, small intestine), serum clinical chemistry, and major hematological parameters were not affected by PRO supplementation. These results suggest that PRO may act as a safe and effective supplement to decrease F:G and improve intestinal health in weaned pigs.

A review on anti-nutritional factors: unraveling the natural gateways to human health

Humans are constantly facing multiple health challenges from both communicable and non-communicable diseases that significantly affect their health. Additionally, drug resistance or failure has made the situation even worse and poses serious challenges for researchers to develop new drugs. Hence, to address these problems, there is an urgent need to discover and develop timely and long-term-based therapeutic treatments from different sources. One such approach is harnessing the potential of plant secondary metabolites. Plants have been utilized for therapeutic purposes in addition to being used for nutritional benefits. In the last two decades, plant-based drug developments have been one of the effective means of treating human diseases owing to their multiple functions. More recently, anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) have emerged as one of the important targets for novel plant-based drug development due to their multifaceted and potential pharmacological properties. However, their anti-nutritional properties have been the major setback for their limited success in the pharmacological sector. In this review, we provide an overview of ANFs and their beneficial roles in preventing human diseases with multiple case studies. We also highlight the recent developments and applications of ANFs in the food industry, agriculture, and pharmaceutics with future perspectives. Furthermore, we evaluate meta-analyses on ANFs from the last 30 years in relation to their function in human health benefits. This review is an endeavor to reevaluate the merit of these natural compounds and explore their potential for both human and animal health.

Endogenous and Exogenous Antioxidants as Agents Preventing the Negative Effects of Contrast Media (Contrast-Induced Nephropathy)

The use of conventional contrast media for diagnostic purposes (in particular, Gd-containing and iodinated agents) causes a large number of complications, the most common of which is contrast-induced nephropathy. It has been shown that after exposure to contrast agents, oxidative stress often occurs in patients, especially in people suffering from various diseases. Antioxidants in the human body can diminish the pathological consequences of the use of contrast media by suppressing oxidative stress. This review considers the research studies on the role of antioxidants in preventing the negative consequences of the use of contrast agents in diagnostics (mainly contrast-induced nephropathy) and the clinical trials of different antioxidant drugs against contrast-induced nephropathy. Composite antioxidant/contrast systems as theranostic agents are also considered.

Effects of polyphenols and their metabolites on age-related diseases

Aging contributes to the progressive loss of cellular biological functions and increases the risk of age-related diseases. Cardiovascular diseases, some neurological disorders and cancers are generally classified as age-related diseases that affect the lifespan of individuals. These diseases result from the accumulation of cellular damage and reduced activity of protective stress response pathways, which can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which play a key role in the aging process. There is now increasing interest in the therapeutic effects of edible plants for the prevention of various diseases, including those associated with aging. It has become clear that the beneficial effects of these foods are due, at least in part, to the high concentration of bioactive phenolic compounds with low side effects. Antioxidants are the most abundant, and their high consumption in the Mediterranean diet has been associated with slower ageing in humans. Extensive human dietary intervention studies strongly suggest that polyphenol supplementation protects against the development of degenerative diseases, especially in the elderly. In this review, we present data on the biological effects of plant polyphenols in the context of their relevance to human health, ageing and the prevention of age-related diseases.

Protective effect of IAXO-102 on renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common cause of kidney damage, characterized by oxidative stress and inflammation. In this study, we investigated the potential protective effects of IAXO-102, a chemical compound, on experimentally induced IRI in male rats. The bilateral renal IRI model was used, with 24 adult male rats randomly divided into four groups (N=6): sham group (laparotomy without IRI induction), control group (laparotomy plus bilateral IRI for 30 minutes followed by 2 hours of reperfusion), vehicle group (same as control but pre-injected with the vehicle), and treatment group (similar to control but pre-injected with IAXO-102). We measured several biomarkers involved in IRI pathophysiology using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), including High mobility group box1 (HMGB1), nuclear factor kappa b-p65 (NF-κB p65), interleukin beta-1 (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), 8-isoprostane, Bcl-2 associated X protein (BAX), heat shock protein 27 (HSP27), and Bcl-2. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests. Our results showed that IAXO-102 significantly improved kidney function, reduced histological alterations, and decreased the inflammatory response (IL-1, IL-6, and TNF) caused by IRI. IAXO-102 also decreased apoptosis by reducing pro-apoptotic Bax and increasing anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 without impacting HSP27. In conclusion, our findings suggest that IAXO-102 had a significant protective effect against IRI damage in the kidneys.

Insights on Chemical Crosslinking Strategies for Proteins

Crosslinking of proteins has gained immense significance in the fabrication of biomaterials for various health care applications. Various novel chemical-based strategies are being continuously developed for intra-/inter-molecular crosslinking of proteins to create a network/matrix with desired mechanical/functional properties without imparting toxicity to the host system. Many materials that are used in biomedical and food packaging industries are prepared by chemical means of crosslinking the proteins, besides the physical or enzymatic means of crosslinking. Such chemical methods utilize the chemical compounds or crosslinkers available from natural sources or synthetically generated with the ability to form covalent/non-covalent bonds with proteins. Such linkages are possible with chemicals like carbodiimides/epoxides, while photo-induced novel chemical crosslinkers are also available. In this review, we have discussed different protein crosslinking strategies under chemical methods, along with the corresponding crosslinking reactions/conditions, material properties and significant applications.

The MdBBX22-miR858-MdMYB9/11/12 module regulates proanthocyanidin biosynthesis in apple peel

Proanthocyanidins (PAs) have antioxidant properties and are beneficial to human health. The fruit of apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.), especially the peel, is rich in various flavonoids, such as PAs, and thus is an important source of dietary antioxidants. Previous research on the regulation of PAs in apple has mainly focussed on the transcription level, whereas studies conducted at the post-transcriptional level are relatively rare. In this study, we investigated the function of mdm-miR858, a miRNA with multiple functions in plant development, in the peel of apple fruit. We showed that mdm-miR858 negatively regulated PA accumulation by targeting MdMYB9/11/12 in the peel. During fruit development, mdm-miR858 expression was negatively correlated with MdMYB9/11/12 expression and PA accumulation. A 5'-RACE experiment, GUS staining assays and transient luminescent assays indicated that mdm-miR858 cleaved and inhibited the expression of MdMYB9/11/12. Overexpression of mdm-miR858 in apple calli, tobacco and Arabidopsis reduced the accumulation of PAs induced by overexpression of MdMYB9/11/12. Furthermore, we found that MdBBX22 bound to the mdm-miR858 promoter and induced its expression. Overexpression of MdBBX22 induced the expression of mdm-miR858 to inhibit the accumulation of PAs in apple calli overexpressing MdMYB9/11/12. Under light stress, MdBBX22 induced mdm-miR858 expression to inhibit PA accumulation and thereby indirectly enhanced anthocyanin synthesis in the peel. The present results revealed that the MdBBX22-miR858-MdMYB9/11/12 module regulates PA accumulation in apple. The findings provide a reference for further studies of the regulatory mechanism of PA accumulation and the relationship between PAs and anthocyanins.

Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract induces apoptotic and autophagic cell death in rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the association between grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) and rheumatoid arthritis-fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLSs) and to investigate whether GSPE induces cell death in RA-FLSs.

Materials and methods

The FLSs were isolated from RA synovial tissues. Cell viability and cell cycle staging were analyzed using a hemocytometer and flow cytometry. Caspase 3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) proteins were analyzed using Western blotting with z-VAD-fmk. Protein LC3 and polyubiquitin-binding protein p62 that were degraded by autophagy were evaluated using Western blotting with 3-methyladenine and chloroquine. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were also evaluated.

Results

When RA-FLSs were treated with GSPE, cell viability decreased, the number of cells in sub-G1 and G2/M phases increased, and the expression of pro-PARP and pro-caspase 3 proteins decreased in a concentration-dependent manner. This result was offset, when the cells were co-treated with the pan-caspase inhibitor z-VAD-fmk. The reduced cell viability, increased expression of LC3-II protein, and reduced expression of p62 protein with GSPE treatment were offset, when RA-FLSs were co-treated with GSPE and autophagy inhibitors 3-methyladenine and chloroquine. The level of ROS in RA-FLSs treated with GSPE was significantly lower than treatment with N-acetyl-cysteine, a ROS inhibitor.

Conclusion

Our study results show that GSPE induces apoptotic and autophagic cell death and inhibites reactive oxygen species in RA-FLSs.

Proanthocyanidins alleviate pentylenetetrazole-induced epileptic seizures in mice via the antioxidant activity

The role of oxidative stress in the initiation and progress of epilepsy is well established. Proanthocyanidins (PACs), a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound, have been reported to possess a broad spectrum of pharmacological and therapeutic properties against oxidative stress. However, the protective effects of proanthocyanidins against epilepsy have not been clarified. In the present study, we used the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced epilepsy mouse model to explore whether proanthocyanidins could help to reduce oxidative stress and protect against epilepsy. Mice were allocated into four groups (n = 14 per each group): control, PTZ (60 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), PACs + PTZ (200 mg/kg, p.o.) and sodium valproate (VPA) + PTZ (200 mg/kg, p.o.). PTZ injection caused oxidative stress in the hippocampal tissue as represented by the elevated lipid peroxidation and NO synthesis and increased expression of iNOS. Furthermore, depleted levels of anti-oxidants, GSH, GR, GPx, SOD, and CAT also indicate that oxidative stress was induced in mice exposed to PTZ. Additionally, a state of neuroinflammation was recorded following the developed seizures. Moreover, neuronal apoptosis was recorded following the development of epileptic convulsions as confirmed by the elevated Bax and caspase-3 and the decreased Bcl2 protein. Moreover, AChE activity, DA, NE, 5-HT, brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels, and gene expression of Nrf2 have decreased in the hippocampal tissue of PTZ exposed mice. However, pre-treatment of mice with PACs protected against the generation of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and neuroinflammation in the PTZ exposed mice brain as the biomarkers for all these conditions was bought to control levels. In addition, the gene expression of Nrf2 was significantly upregulated following PACs treatment. These results suggest that PACs can ameliorate oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neuronal apoptosis by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway in PTZ induced seizures in mice.

Geraniol enhances peroxiredoxin-1, and prevents isoproterenol-induced oxidative stress and inflammation associated with myocardial infarction in experimental animal models

This study has explored the fact that geraniol prevents isoproterenol (ISO)-induced oxidative stress and inflammation-mediated myocardial infarction (MI) through enhanced expression of peroxiredoxin-1 (Prdx-1) in experimental animal models. The experimental strategies of MI were stimulated through the subcutaneous direction of ISO (85 mg/kg body weight) for 14 days. ISO-directed models showed elevated heart rate levels and cardiac markers (serum creatine kinase [CK], serum CK-myocardial band, serum C-reactive proteins, and plasma homocysteine); increased cardiac-troponins-T, and troponin-I levels in both serum and myocardium. Moreover, we perceived that a higher level of lipid peroxidation molecules (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and lipid hydroperoxides) reduced the antioxidant enzyme levels in plasma and heart tissue of ISO-directed rats. However, geraniol treatment prevents ISO-directed enhancement of the heart rate, cardiac and lipid peroxidative genes; reverted the blood pressure, and antioxidant status in ISO-directed rats. Furthermore, gene expression results revealed that geraniol treatment inhibited the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) proteins, inflammatory responder (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin 6, nuclear factor-κB), and cardiac fibrotic proteins (matrix metalloproteinase-2[MMP-2], MMP-9) in ISO directed rats. Prdx-1 is an antioxidant response element, and it can regulate all the antioxidant proteins and it scavenges harmful radicals. Therefore, enhanced Prdx-1 expression is considered to have a pivotal role in preventing cardiac infarction. In this study, an elevated expression of Prdx1 was noticed in geraniol treated with ISO-directed rats. Hence, we concluded that geraniol is considered a potential phytodrug, and it prevents ISO-directed MAPKs, inflammation, and cardiac markers by enhancing the expression of Prdx1.

Plant Ploidy Level and the Presence of Cadmium in the Growing Environment Changes the Content of the Main Components of the Phenolic Complex in Buckwheat Sprouts

For the first time, the composition and the content of the main components of the phenolic complex of aboveground organs of buckwheat plants (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) with different levels of ploidy (2n and 4n) at the initial stages of ontogenesis and their changes under the action of cadmium (Cd, 65 µM) were studied by the method of high-performance liquid chromatography. In all variants, phenolic compounds (PCs) were represented by chlorogenic acid (phenylpropanoid), rutin (flavonol), as well as orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, and isovitexin (flavones). The amount of PCs in the cotyledon leaves in most cases exceeded that in the hypocotyls. Buckwheat seedlings of the tetraploid genotype are characterized by a higher accumulation of PCs as compared to the diploid genotype. Under the effect of Cd, the content of their individual representatives changed: in the hypocotyls of the diploid genotype, it decreased in most cases, whereas in the hypocotyls of the tetraploid genotype it increased. In the cotyledon leaves, the tendency was opposite. It was found that seedlings of two F. esculentum genotypes with different ploidy levels differed in the content of the main PCs and in their response to Cd, which is important for breeding this culture for stress resistance.

An Upgraded, Highly Saturated Linkage Map of Japanese Plum (Prunus salicina Lindl.), and Identification of a New Major Locus Controlling the Flavan-3-ol Composition in Fruits

Japanese plum fruits are rich in phenolic compounds, such as anthocyanins and flavan-3-ols, whose contents vary significantly among cultivars. Catechin (C) and epicatechin (EC) are flavan-3-ol monomers described in the fruits of this species and are associated with bitterness, astringency, antioxidant capacity, and susceptibility to enzymatic mesocarp browning. In this study, we aimed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with the content of flavan-3-ol in Japanese plum fruits. We evaluated the content of C and EC in the mesocarp and exocarp of samples from 79 and 64 seedlings of an F1 progeny (<'98-99' × 'Angeleno'>) in the first and second seasons, respectively. We also constructed improved versions of linkage maps from '98-99' and 'Angeleno,' presently called single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) after mapping the already available GBS reads to Prunus salicina Lindl. cv. 'Sanyueli' v2.0 reference genome. These data allowed for describing a cluster of QTLs in the cultivar, 'Angeleno,' associated with the flavan-3-ol composition of mesocarp and exocarp, which explain up to 100% of the C/EC ratio. Additionally, we developed a C/EC metabolic marker, which was mapped between the markers with the highest log of odds (LOD) scores detected by the QTL analysis. The C/EC locus was located in the LG1, at an interval spanning 0.70 cM at 108.30-108.90 cM. Our results suggest the presence of a novel major gene controlling the preferential synthesis of C or EC in the Japanese plum fruits. This study is a significant advance in understanding the regulation of synthesizing compounds associated with fruit quality, postharvest, and human health promotion.

Flavanols from Nature: A Phytochemistry and Biological Activity Review

Flavanols, a common class of secondary plant metabolites, exhibit several beneficial health properties by acting as antioxidant, anticarcinogen, cardioprotective, anti-microbial, anti-viral, and neuroprotective agents. Furthermore, some flavanols are considered functional ingredients in dairy products. Based on their structural features and health-promoting functions, flavanols have gained the attention of pharmacologists and botanists worldwide. This review collects and summarizes 121 flavanols comprising four categories: flavan-3-ols, flavan-4-ols, isoflavan-4-ols, and flavan-3,4-ols. The research of the various structural features and pharmacological activities of flavanols and their derivatives aims to lay the groundwork for subsequent research and expect to provide mentality and inspiration for the research. The current study provides a starting point for further research and development.

GSPE pre-treatment protects against long-term cafeteria diet-induced mitochondrial and inflammatory affectations in the hippocampus of rats

Deregulations like the loss of sensitivity to insulin (insulin resistance) and chronic inflammation are alterations very commonly found in sporadic forms of neurodegenerative pathologies. Thus, finding strategies to protect against them, may lead to a reduction in the incidence and/or affectation of these pathologies. The grape seed-derived proanthocyanidins extract (GSPE) is a mixture of compounds highly enriched in polyphenols and flavonoids that have shown to have a wide range of therapeutic benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the protective effects of a short pre-treatment of GSPE in the hippocampus against a prolonged feeding with cafeteria diet.

METHODS

GSPE was administered for 10 days followed by 12 weeks of cafeteria diet. We analyzed transcriptional activity of genes and protein expression of key mediators of neurodegeneration in brain samples.

RESULTS

Results indicated that GSPE was able to protect against cellular damage through the activation of AKT, as well as promote the maintenance of mitochondrial function by conserving the OXPHOS complexes and upregulating the antioxidant SOD.

DISCUSSION

We observed that GSPE decreased inflammatory activation as observed through the downregulation of JNK, IL6 and TNFα, just like the reduction in reactive profile of astrocytes. Overall, the data presented here offers an interesting and hopeful initial step for future long-term studies on the beneficial effects of a supplementation of common diets with polyphenol and flavonoid substances for the amelioration of typical early hallmarks of neurodegeneration.

Purple tea (Camellia sinensis var. assamica) leaves as a potential functional ingredient: From extraction of phenolic compounds to cell-based antioxidant/biological activities

A statistical optimization study was used to maximize the extraction of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity from green tea derived from purple leaves of Camellia sinensis var. assamica. Simultaneous optimization was applied, and a combination of 60 °C, 15 min, and a mass-solvent ratio of 1 g of dehydrated purple leaves to 62.3 mL of an ethanol/citric acid solution, were determined as the ideal extraction conditions. The optimized extract of purple tea leaves (OEPL) contained showed stability in relation to variations in pH, and lyophilized OEPL exerted cytotoxic and antiproliferative effects against cancerous cells (A549 and HCT8), demonstrated antimicrobial activity towards Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 7644), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 13565) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (ATCC 12288), inhibition of α-amylase and α-glycosidase enzymes and reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, CXCL2/MIP-2, and IL-6) in lipopolysaccharides-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Thus, our results provide a broad assessment of the bioactivity of "green" extracts obtained by a simple and low-cost process using non-toxic solvents, and they have the potential to be used for technological applications.

Natural Products Counteracting Cardiotoxicity during Cancer Chemotherapy: The Special Case of Doxorubicin, a Comprehensive Review

Cardiotoxicity is a frequent undesirable phenomenon observed during oncological treatment that limits the therapeutic dose of antitumor drugs and thus may decrease the effectiveness of cancer eradication. Almost all antitumor drugs exhibit toxic properties towards cardiac muscle. One of the underlying causes of cardiotoxicity is the stimulation of oxidative stress by chemotherapy. This suggests that an appropriately designed diet or dietary supplements based on edible plants rich in antioxidants could decrease the toxicity of antitumor drugs and diminish the risk of cardiac failure. This comprehensive review compares the cardioprotective efficacy of edible plant extracts and foodborne phytochemicals whose beneficial activity was demonstrated in various models in vivo and in vitro. The studies selected for this review concentrated on a therapy frequently applied in cancer, anthracycline antibiotic-doxorubicin-as the oxidative stress- and cardiotoxicity-inducing agent.

Proanthocyanidins and Where to Find Them: A Meta-Analytic Approach to Investigate Their Chemistry, Biosynthesis, Distribution, and Effect on Human Health

Proanthocyanidins (PACs) are a class of polyphenolic compounds that are attracting considerable interest in the nutraceutical field due to their potential health benefits. However, knowledge about the chemistry, biosynthesis, and distribution of PACs is limited. This review summarizes the main chemical characteristics and biosynthetic pathways and the main analytical methods aimed at their identification and quantification in raw plant matrices. Furthermore, meta-analytic approaches were used to identify the main plant sources in which PACs were contained and to investigate their potential effect on human health. In particular, a cluster analysis identified PACs in 35 different plant families and 60 different plant parts normally consumed in the human diet. On the other hand, a literature search, coupled with forest plot analyses, highlighted how PACs can be actively involved in both local and systemic effects. Finally, the potential mechanisms of action through which PACs may impact human health were investigated, focusing on their systemic hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects and their local anti-inflammatory actions on the intestinal epithelium. Overall, this review may be considered a complete report in which chemical, biosynthetic, ecological, and pharmacological aspects of PACs are discussed.

Nephroprotective activity of natural products against chemical toxicants: The role of Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway

Nephropathy can occur following exposure of the kidneys to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is the result of reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation due to intracellular catabolism or exogenous toxicant exposure. Many natural products (NPs) with antioxidant properties have been used to demonstrate that oxidative damage-induced nephrotoxicity can be ameliorated or at least reduced through stimulation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway. Nrf2 is a basic leucine zipper (bZip) transcription factor that regulates gene expression of the antioxidant response elements (ARE). Nrf2 is involved in the cellular antioxidant-detoxification machinery. Nrf2 activation is a major mechanism of nephroprotective activity for these NPs, which facilitates its entry into the nucleus, primarily by inhibiting Kelch like-ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). The purpose of this article was to review the peer-reviewed literature of NPs that have shown mitigating effects on renal disorder by stimulating Nrf2 and thereby suggesting potential new therapeutic or prophylactic strategies against kidney-damaging xenobiotics.

Study on proanthocyanidins crosslinked collagen membrane for guided bone tissue regeneration

The goal of this study is to understand the ability of a newly developed barrier membrane to enhance bone tissue regeneration. Here in this study we present the in vitro characterization of the barrier membrane made from type I collagen and crosslinked by oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). The effects of the membrane (P-C film) on cell cycle, proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineralization were evaluated using the human osteoblast cell line MG-63, while the barrier ability was examined using MG-63 cells, as well as the human skin fibroblast cell line WS-1. The pore size is one of the factors that plays a key role in tissue regeneration, therefore, we evaluated the pore size of the membrane using a capillary flow porometer. Our results showed that the mean pore size of the P-C film was approximately 7-9 µm, the size known to inhibit cell migration across the membrane. The P-C film also demonstrated excellent cell viability and good biocompatibility, since the cell number increased with time, with MG-63 cells proliferating faster on the P-C film than in the cell culture flask. Furthermore, the P-C film promoted osteoblast differentiation, resulting in higher alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralization. Therefore, our results suggest that this P-C film has a great potential to be used in guided bone regeneration during periodontal regeneration and bone tissue engineering.

Hesperidin Promotes Osteogenesis and Modulates Collagen Matrix Organization and Mineralization In Vitro and In Vivo

This study evaluated the direct effect of a phytochemical, hesperidin, on pre-osteoblast cell function as well as osteogenesis and collagen matrix quality, as there is little known about hesperidin's influence in mineralized tissue formation and regeneration. Hesperidin was added to a culture of MC3T3-E1 cells at various concentrations. Cell proliferation, viability, osteogenic gene expression and deposited collagen matrix analyses were performed. Treatment with hesperidin showed significant upregulation of osteogenic markers, particularly with lower doses. Mature and compact collagen fibrils in hesperidin-treated cultures were observed by picrosirius red staining (PSR), although a thinner matrix layer was present for the higher dose of hesperidin compared to osteogenic media alone. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy indicated a better mineral-to-matrix ratio and matrix distribution in cultures exposed to hesperidin and confirmed less collagen deposited with the 100-µM dose of hesperidin. In vivo, hesperidin combined with a suboptimal dose of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) (dose unable to promote healing of a rat mandible critical-sized bone defect) in a collagenous scaffold promoted a well-controlled (not ectopic) pattern of bone formation as compared to a large dose of BMP2 (previously defined as optimal in healing the critical-sized defect, although of ectopic nature). PSR staining of newly formed bone demonstrated that hesperidin can promote maturation of bone organic matrix. Our findings show, for the first time, that hesperidin has a modulatory role in mineralized tissue formation via not only osteoblast cell differentiation but also matrix organization and matrix-to-mineral ratio and could be a potential adjunct in regenerative bone therapies.

A Review of Plant Extracts and Plant-Derived Natural Compounds in the Prevention/Treatment of Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury

Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic (HI) brain injury is one of the major drawbacks of mortality and causes significant short/long-term neurological dysfunction in newborn infants worldwide. To date, due to multifunctional complex mechanisms of brain injury, there is no well-established effective strategy to completely provide neuroprotection. Although therapeutic hypothermia is the proven treatment for hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), it does not completely chang outcomes in severe forms of HIE. Therefore, there is a critical need for reviewing the effective therapeutic strategies to explore the protective agents and methods. In recent years, it is widely believed that there are neuroprotective possibilities of natural compounds extracted from plants against HIE. These natural agents with the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-apoptotic, and neurofunctional regulatory properties exhibit preventive or therapeutic effects against experimental neonatal HI brain damage. In this study, it was aimed to review the literature in scientific databases that investigate the neuroprotective effects of plant extracts/plant-derived compounds in experimental animal models of neonatal HI brain damage and their possible underlying molecular mechanisms of action.

The effect of grape seed and green tea extracts on the pharmacokinetics of imatinib and its main metabolite, N-desmethyl imatinib, in rats

BACKGROUND

Imatinib is mainly metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by other isoenzymes, with N-desmethyl imatinib being its major equipotent metabolite. Being a CYP3A4 substrate, imatinib co-administration with CYP3A4 modulators would change its pharmacokinetic profile. The cancer chemoprevention potential and anticancer efficacy of many herbal products such as grape seed (GS) and green tea (GT) extracts had led to an increase in their concomitant use with anticancer agents. GS and GT extracts were demonstrated to be potent inhibitors of CYP3A4. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of standardized GS and/or GT extracts at two different doses on the pharmacokinetics of imatinib and its metabolite, N-desmethyl imatinib, in SD-rats.

METHODS

Standardized GS and/or GT extracts were administered orally once daily for 21 days, at low (l) and high (h) doses, 50 and 100 mg/kg, respectively, before the administration of a single intragastric dose of imatinib. Plasma samples were collected and analyzed for imatinib and N-desmethyl imatinib concentrations using LC-MS/MS method, then their non-compartmental pharmacokinetic parameters were determined.

RESULTS

h-GS dose significantly decreased imatinib's Cmax and the [Formula: see text] by 61.1 and 72.2%, respectively. Similar effects on N-desmethyl imatinib's exposure were observed as well, in addition to a significant increase in its clearance by 3.7-fold. l-GT caused a significant decrease in imatinib's Cmax and [Formula: see text] by 53.6 and 63.5%, respectively, with more significant effects on N-desmethyl imatinib's exposure, which exhibited a significant decrease by 79.2 and 81.1%, respectively. h-GT showed similar effects as those of l-GT on the kinetics of imatinib and its metabolite. However, when these extracts were co-administered at low doses, no significant effects were shown on the pharmacokinetics of imatinib and its metabolite. Nevertheless, increasing the dose caused a significant decrease in Cmax of N-desmethyl imatinib by 71.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrated that the pharmacokinetics of imatinib and N-desmethyl imatinib had been significantly affected by GS and/or GT extracts, which could be partially explained by the inhibition of CYP3A-mediated metabolism. However, the involvement of other kinetic pathways such as other isoenzymes, efflux and uptake transporters could be involved and should be characterized.

Grape Extract from Chardonnay Seeds Restores Deoxycorticosterone Acetate-Salt-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction and Hypertension in Rats

Grape extract (GE), which contains various polyphenolic compounds, exerts protective effects against lifestyle-related diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension. We pharmacologically investigated whether dietary supplements with an extract from Chardonnay exerted antihypertensive effects in deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt-induced hypertensive rats. GE increased nitric oxide (NO) production by activating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway in cultured endothelial cells and induced vasorelaxation in the aorta and mesenteric artery via the same pathway. The development and progression of hypertension by the DOCA-salt treatment was significantly inhibited in GE-fed rats. Reduced vasoreactive responses to acetylcholine in the aorta of DOCA-salt rats were significantly ameliorated by the GE diet. Dietary GE supplements slightly diminished vascular superoxide anion production induced by the DOCA-salt treatment. On the other hand, dietary GE supplements had no effect on the progression of hypertension in rats in which NO synthase was pharmacologically and chronically suppressed. In addition, the oral administration of GE for 5 d in healthy rats enhanced endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) gene expression and vascular reactivity to acetylcholine in the aorta. Thus, GE has endothelium-dependent vasorelaxant properties that are mediated by the activation of endothelial NO synthase via the PI3K/Akt pathway, and this mechanism is conducive to the antihypertensive effects of GE observed in DOCA-salt-treated rats.

Role of flavonoids against adriamycin toxicity

Doxorubicin (DOX), or adriamycin, is an anthracycline antineoplastic drug widely used in the chemotherapy of a large variety of cancers due to its potency and action spectrum. However, its use is limited by the toxicity on healthy cells and its acute and chronic side effects. One of the developed strategies to attenuate DOX toxicity is the combined therapy with bioactive compounds such as flavonoids. This review embraces the role of flavonoids on DOX treatment side effects. Protective properties of some flavonoidss against DOX toxicity have been investigated and observed mainly in heart but also in liver, kidney, brain, testis or bone marrow. Protective mechanisms involve reduction of oxidative stress by decrease of ROS levels and/or increase antioxidant defenses and interferences with autophagy, apoptosis and inflammation. Studies in cancer cells have reported that the anticancer activity of DOX was not compromised by the flavonoids. Moreover, some of them increased DOX efficiency as anti-cancer drug even in multidrug resistant cells.

Insights into the potential benefits of black soybean (Glycine max L.) polyphenols in lifestyle diseases

Black soybean (Glycine max L.), a cultivar containing abundant polyphenols in its seed coat such as anthocyanins and flavan-3-ols, has been reported to possess various health benefits toward lifestyle diseases. In this review article, the safety evaluation of polyphenol-rich black soybean seed coat extract (BE) and absorption of BE polyphenols are summarized. Additionally, we describe the antioxidant activity of BE polyphenols and their ability to induce antioxidant enzymes. The health benefits of BE and its polyphenols, such as anti-obesity and anti-hyperglycemic activities through the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase and translocation of glucose transporter 4, respectively, are also discussed. Furthermore, we found that black soybean polyphenols were involved in the improvement of vascular function. These emerging data require further investigation in scientific studies and human trials to evaluate the prevention of lifestyle diseases using black soybean polyphenols.

Concept, mechanism, and applications of phenolic antioxidants in foods

In this review, the concept of phenolic antioxidants, mechanisms of action, and applications have been reviewed. Phenolic compounds (PCs) acts as an antioxidant by reacting with a variety of free radicals. The mechanism of antioxidant actions involved either by hydrogen atom transfer, transfer of a single electron, sequential proton loss electron transfer, and chelation of transition metals. In foods, the PCs act as antioxidants which are measured with several in vitro spectroscopic methods. The PCs have been found in milk and a wide range of dairy products with sole purposes of color, taste, storage stability, and quality enhancement. The role of PCs in three types of food additives, that is, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and flavoring agents have been critically reviewed. The literature revealed that PCs present in a variety of foods possess several health benefits such as antibacterial, antihyperlipidemic, anticancer, antioxidants, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic properties. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Phenolic compounds are strong antioxidants and are safer than synthetic antioxidants. The wide occurrence in plant foods warranted continuous review applications. This review, therefore, presented an updated comprehensive overview of the concept, mechanism, and applications of phenolic antioxidants in foods.

Determination of Phenolic Compounds’ Extraction Conditions from Pistacia palaestina Leaves at Two Different Stages of Maturity

Background:

Phenolic compounds are distributed throughout the plant kingdom. Numerous investigations have proved that Pistacia species have secondary metabolites, and these contain different classes of bioactive phenolic compounds.

Objective:

The objective of the present work was to optimize the extraction conditions of phenolic compounds from Pistacia palaestina leaves cultivated in Syria and find out the effects of the solvent type, extraction time, and temperature on total phenolic content (TPC) and in vitro antioxidant activity% (AA%). Two different growth stages were studied.

Methods:

Antioxidant activity and total phenolic content values were estimated using 2,2’-diphenyl- 1-picrylhydrazyl and Folin-Ciocalteu methods, respectively.

Results:

The highest TPC and AA% were found in fresh leaves (14.32g/100g and 92.69%, respectively). The optimum extraction solvent for phenolic recovery and antioxidant capacity was acetone 40%. Changes both in temperature (25, 40, 60 and 80°C) and time (15, 30, 45 and 60 min) had no significant influence on TPC and AA% of Pistacia extracts.

Conclusion:

Phenolic compounds could be extracted in a short time at a low temperature and could be used as natural antioxidant agents.

Protective effect of alpha-pinene against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction through NF-κB signaling pathway

Monoterpenes present in the essential oils exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the preventive effect of alpha-pinene (AP), a monoterpene, against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction and inflammation in Wistar rats. Male Wistar rats were pretreated with AP (50 mg/kg body weight (bw)) administration for 21 days and ISO (85 mg/kg bw) was administered subcutaneously for last two consecutive days (20th day and 21st day). We noticed that there was an increased activity of cardiac marker enzymes in ISO-treated rats. We also observed that elevated levels of lipid peroxidative indices decreased activities of antioxidant status in plasma, erythrocyte, and heart tissue in ISO-induced rats. Furthermore, ISO-treated rats showed an increase in the levels of inflammatory mediators like tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the serum. Besides, we confirmed the upregulated expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells in ISO-induced rat heart tissue. Conversely, we found that AP pretreatment significantly decreased levels of cardiac markers like serum cardiac troponin T and cardiac troponin I, lipid peroxidative markers, and restored antioxidants status in ISO-treated rats. Besides, AP administration attenuated ISO-induced inflammatory marker expression. The present findings demonstrated that AP significantly protects the myocardium and exerts cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in experimental rats.

Diet, Lifestyle and Cardiovascular Diseases: Linking Pathophysiology to Cardioprotective Effects of Natural Bioactive Compounds

Heart and blood vessels disorders comprise one of the main causes of death worldwide. Pharmacologically active natural compounds have been used as a complementary therapy in cardiovascular disease around the world in a traditional way. Dietary, natural bioactive compounds, as well as healthy lifestyles, are considered to prevent coronary artery diseases. Pre-clinical and clinical studies reported that consumption of plant-food bioactive derivatives including polyphenolic compounds, peptides, oligosaccharides, vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids possess protective effects on cardiovascular diseases. This review aims to summarize the cardiovascular risk factors, pre-clinical studies and clinical trials related to cardioprotective properties of the plant-food-derived bioactive compounds. Molecular mechanisms by the natural bioactive compounds exert their cardiovascular protective properties have also been highlighted.

Effects of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin Extract on Obesity

Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease resulting from excessive fat accumulation and/or abnormal distribution caused by multiple factors. As a major component of metabolic syndrome, obesity is closely related to many diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, coronary heart disease, stroke and cancer. Hence, the problem of obesity cannot be ignored, and recent studies have shown that grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) has an antiobesity effect. This paper systematically reviews the research progress and potential mechanism of GSPE emphasizing on obesity prevention and treatment.

Grape seed extract: having a potential health benefits

Grapes are one of the most highly consumed fruits across the world. In ancient Europe the leaves and the sap of grape plants has been used in traditional treatment for ages. Besides being a wellspring for vitamins and fibre, the skin and seeds of grapes are highly rich in Polyphenols specifically proanthocyanidins, which can be used as a functional ingredient to address various health issues by boosting the natural bio-processes of the body. Since, grape seeds are by product of wine making companies therefore can be easily procured. The present review article briefly describes the various pharmacological activities of grape seed extract and different experimental studies were done which supports the beneficial health qualities of the extract. Through different and various studies, it was proved that the proanthocyanidin rich grape seed extract provides benefits against many diseases i.e. inflammation, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, peptic ulcer, microbial infections, etc. Therefore, beside from using it as a nutraceutical or cosmeceutical, as a result they may have a potential to substitute or complement in currently used drugs in the treatment of diseases by developing it into other successful pharmaceutical formulations for better future prospective.

Inhibition of β-amyloid-induced neurotoxicity by planar analogues of procyanidin B3

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to be produced during the amyloid beta (Aβ) aggregation process. Both ROS production and Aβ fibril formation can result in nerve cell injury. Proanthocyanidins are oligomers of catechin that can act as inhibitors of Aβ aggregation. Procyanidin B3 (Cat-Cat), the dimer of (+)-catechin, can easily cross the blood-brain barrier. Previously, we synthesized two derivatives of Cat-Cat, namely Cat-PCat and PCat-PCat, in which the geometry of one or both catechin molecules in Cat-Cat was constrained to be planar. The antioxidative activities of Cat-PCat and PCat-PCat were found to be stronger than that of Cat-Cat, with PCat-PC at exhibiting the most potent activity. These compounds are predicted to protect against Aβ-induced neurotoxicity via inhibition of Aβ aggregation as well as by antioxidative effects toward Aβ-induced intracellular ROS generation. PCat-PCat exhibited the most potent neuroprotective effects against Aβ-induced cytotoxicity, which resulted from inhibition of β-sheet structure formation during the Aβ aggregation process. PCat-PCat may be a promising lead compound for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Improvement of the Physical Properties of Guided Bone Regeneration Membrane from Porcine Pericardium by Polyphenols-Rich Pomace Extract

To achieve optimal performances, guided bone regeneration membranes should have several properties, in particular, proper stiffness and tear resistance for space maintenance, appropriate resorption time, and non-cytotoxic effect. In this work, polyphenol-rich pomace extract (PRPE), from a selected grape variety (Nebbiolo), rich in proanthocyanidins and flavonols (e.g., quercetin), was used as a rich source of polyphenols, natural collagen crosslinkers, to improve the physical properties of the porcine pericardium membrane. The incorporation of polyphenols in the collagen network of the membrane was clearly identified by infra-red spectroscopy through the presence of a specific peak between 1360-1380 cm-1. Polyphenols incorporated into the pericardium membrane bind to collagen with high affinity and reduce enzymatic degradation by 20% compared to the native pericardium. The release study shows a release of active molecules from the membrane, suggesting a possible use in patients affected by periodontitis, considering the role of polyphenols in the control of this pathology. Mechanical stiffness is increased making the membrane easier to handle. Young's modulus of pericardium treated with PRPE was three-fold higher than the one measured on native pericardium. Tear and suture retention strength measurement suggest favorable properties in the light of clinical practice requirements.

Grape seeds proanthocyanidin extract ameliorates Ehrlich solid tumor induced renal tissue and DNA damage in mice

The current study was carried out to evaluate the protective effect of grape seed proanthocyanidins extract (GSPE) against Ehrlich solid tumor (EST) induced renal injury, with the respect to DNA fragmentation and P53 and PCNA proteins expression in renal tissue. A total of 50 female mice were randomly assigned into five groups. Control mice were injected with physiological saline solution. Mice of the 2^nd group were administered with GSPE (50 mg/kg bw/every 2day/per OS) for 2 weeks and injected with physiological saline solution. Mice of the 3^rd group were injected subcutaneously with 2.5 million cells of EAC/mouse. Mice of the 4^th group were injected with EAC as the 3^rd group and administered with GSPE as the 2^nd group simultaneously for 2 weeks. Mice of the 5^th group were injected with EAC as the 3^rd group and left for 2 weeks (till development of solid tumor), then treated with GSPE for another 2 weeks. EST significantly increased serum levels of urea, creatinine, potassium and chloride. In addition, it induced renal tissue and DNA injuries and increased P53, PCNA and ki67 proteins expression in renal tissues. On the other hand, it decreased serum levels of sodium and calcium ions. However, treatment of EST bearing mice with GSPE normalized serum levels of the above-mentioned parameters and improved renal tissue structure and reduced renal tissue DNA damage and P53, PCNA and ki67 proteins expression. These results indicated that GSPE is a promising nephron protective agent against EST induced renal injury.

Grape seed proanthocyanidins and metformin combination attenuate hepatic endoplasmic reticulum stress in rats subjected to nutrition excess

CONTEXT

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the liver is a pathological outcome of nutrient excess and is suggested to be one of the hits for progressive liver injury.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated whether grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSP) and metformin (MET) alone or in combination can relieve hepatic ER stress induced in rats subjected to calorie excess.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Male albino Wistar rats were given high calorie diet (HCD) for 45 days, while GSP (100 mg/kg body weight) and MET (50 mg/kg body weight) were administered either alone or in combination for last 15 days.

RESULTS

GSP, MET or both had reduced the levels of ER stress markers and chaperons, and suppressed the activation of lipogenic and inflammatory mediators in rat liver.

DISCUSSION

Though GSP and MET had reduced ER stress and inflammation individually, combination treatment with GSP + MET was more effective.

CONCLUSION

We suggest intervention with GSP and MET intake has to be considered for the management of liver disorders.

Proanthocyanidins Alleviates AflatoxinB₁-Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis through Mitochondrial Pathway in the Bursa of Fabricius of Broilers

Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) is a serious threat to the poultry industry. Proanthocyanidins (PCs) demonstrates a broad range of biological, pharmacological, therapeutic, and chemoprotective properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the ameliorative effects of PCs against AFB₁-induced histopathology, oxidative stress, and apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway in the bursa of Fabricius (BF) of broilers. One hundred forty-four one-day old Cobb chicks were randomly assigned into four treatment groups of six replicates (6 birds each replicate) for 28 days. Groups were fed on the following four diets; (1) Basal diet without addition of PCs or AFB₁ (Control); (2) basal diet supplemented with 1 mg/kg AFB₁ from contaminated corn (AFB₁); (3) basal diet supplemented with 250 mg/kg PCs (PCs); and (4) basal diet supplemented with 1 mg/kg AFB₁ + 250 mg/kg PCs (AFB₁+ PCs). The present study results showed that antioxidant enzymes activities of total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in AFB₁ treated group were (p < 0.05) decreased, whereas malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were significantly increased in comparison with the control group. Furthermore, we found that dietary PCs treatment ameliorated AFB₁-induced oxidative stress in the BF through inhibiting the accumulation of MDA content and enhancing the antioxidant enzymes activities (T-SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and GST). Similarly, PCs markedly enhanced messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of antioxidant genes (SOD, CAT, GPx1, and GST) in comparison with AFB₁ group. Moreover, histological results showed that PCs alleviated AFB₁-induced apoptotic cells in the BF of broilers. In addition, both mRNA and protein expression results manifested that mitochondrial-apoptosis-associated genes (Bax, caspase-9, caspase-3, and p53 and cytochrome c) showed up-regulation, while (Bcl-2) showed down-regulation in AFB₁ fed group. The supplementation of PCs to AFB₁ diet significantly reversed the mRNA and protein expression of these apoptosis-associated genes, as compared to the AFB₁ group. Our results demonstrated that PCs ameliorated AFB₁-induced oxidative stress by modulating the antioxidant defense system and apoptosis in the BF through mitochondrial pathway in broilers.

Pretreatment with a grape seed proanthocyanidin extract downregulates proinflammatory cytokine expression in airway epithelial cells infected with respiratory syncytial virus

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Inflammation is mediated by cytokine secretion from RSV‑infected airway epithelial cells. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) exhibits potent antioxidant capacity, as well as anti‑bacterial, anti‑viral, anti‑carcinogenic, anti‑inflammatory and anti‑allergic actions. However, few studies have explored the anti‑inflammatory effects of GSPE on airway epithelial cells infected with RSV. Airway epithelial A549 cells were pretreated with GSPE and its effects on cytokine production during RSV infection were investigated. A549 cells were infected with RSV, with or without GSPE pretreatment, and cultured for 24, 48 and 72 h. The expression of interleukin (IL)‑1β, IL‑6 and IL‑8, were measured by reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction, ELISA and western blotting. RSV infection induced significant increases in proinflammatory cytokine expression. However, GSPE pretreatment decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of IL‑1ß, IL‑6 and IL‑8. GSPE regulated the immune response by reducing the RSV‑induced transcription of proinflammatory cytokines in airway epithelial cells, suggesting that GSPE helps to prevent RSV‑induced airway disease.

Histopathological and Biochemical Effects of Thyme Essential Oil on H2O2 Stress in Heart Tissues

BACKGROUND

Thymus algeriensis (T. algeriensis) is traditionally used in Tunisia to treat many human diseases. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether terpenes extracted from the aerial parts of T. algeriensis are potent cardioprotective agents for hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced cardiotoxicity in rats.

METHOD

Thirty (30) rats were divided into six groups as per the experimental design: control (n = 6); 0.1 mmol/L H₂O₂ (LD H₂O₂) (n = 6); 1 mmol/L H₂O₂ (HD H₂O₂) (n = 6); oily fraction of T. algeriensis (OFTS) (180 mg/kg b.wt) (n = 6); OFTS + 0.1 mmol/L H₂O₂ (n = 6); and OFTS + 1 mmol/L H₂O₂ (n = 6).

RESULTS

The H₂O₂ demonstrated concentration-dependent cardiotoxic effects in vitro. While, exposure of rats to OFTS significantly depleted H₂O₂-induced protein oxidation and lipid peroxidation, it raised antioxidant defence enzymes, and protected against H₂O₂-induced histopathological alterations. The antioxidant potential of the thyme essence was assessed by both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, OFTS may be a potential compound for the therapy of oxidative stress-induced heart disease.

Effects of grape products on blood lipids: a systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Grape products through several plausible mechanisms-of-action are reported to improve lipid profile. The present systematic review revealed that grape product supplementation might have a positive effect on achieving a lipid profile target.

Investigation of the preventive effect of proanthocyanidin in ischemia-reperfusion injury in lung transplantation: An experimental study

Background

This study aims to investigate the preventive effect of proanthocyanidin against ischemia-reperfusion injury after lung transplantation.

Methods

The study included 12 swines (weighing 35±5 kg) and separated into four groups. Groups 1 and 3 were identified as control groups and left upper lobectomy was performed. Groups 2 and 4 were identified as transplantation groups and left lower lobectomy and heterotransplantation were performed. Proanthocyanidin was only given to groups 3 and 4. Tissue samples were analyzed under light microscope and histopathological findings were recorded.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between control groups in terms of the numerical values of histopathological findings that include congestion (p=0.565), alveolar edema (p=0.197) and peribronchial inflammation (p=0.444). However, numerical values of acute cellular rejection were statistically significantly different between transplantation groups (p=0.048). Mean oxidative stress enzyme levels were higher in group 2 compared to group 4; however, the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05).

Conclusion

According to the findings of our experimental study, proanthocyanidin can be safely used in lung transplantation based on its preventive effect in ischemia-reperfusion injury that may lead to morbidity and mortality.

Roles of R2R3-MYB transcription factors in transcriptional regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in horticultural plants

This review contains functional roles of MYB transcription factors in the transcriptional regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in horticultural plants. This review describes potential uses of MYB TFs as tools for metabolic engineering for anthocyanin production. Anthocyanins (ranging from red to blue) are controlled by specific branches of the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway and are mostly visible in ornamentals, fruits, and vegetables. In the present review, we describe which R2R3-MYB transcription factors (TFs) control the transcriptional regulation of anthocyanin structural genes involved in the specific branches of the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway in various horticultural plants (e.g., ornamentals, fruits, and vegetables). In addition, some MYBs responsible for anthocyanin accumulation in specific tissues are described. Moreover, we highlight the phylogenetic relationships of the MYBs that suppress or promote anthocyanin synthesis in horticultural crops. Enhancement of anthocyanin synthesis via metabolic genetic engineering of anthocyanin MYBs, which is described in the review, is indicative of the potential use of the mentioned anthocyanin-related MYBs as tools for anthocyanin production. Therefore, the MYBs would be suitable for metabolic genetic engineering for improvement of flower colors, fruit quality, and vegetable nutrients.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Potentiates Doxil Antitumor Efficacy by Promoting Tumor Penetration and Sensitizing Cancer Cells

Hypoxia is a fundamental hallmark of solid tumors and helps contribute to chemotherapy resistance. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy can overcome tumor hypoxia and promote chemotherapy antitumor efficacy; however, the simultaneous administration of some conventional chemotherapies, including doxorubicin (DOX), with HBO is considered an absolute contraindication. Here, DOX-loaded liposome (Doxil) is coadministered with HBO to assess the safety and efficacy of this combination treatment. By overcoming tumor hypoxia, HBO not only improves Doxil tumor penetration by decreasing the collagen deposition but also sensitizes tumor cells to Doxil. As a result, the combination treatment synergistically inhibits H22 tumor growth, with a tumor inhibition rate of 91.5%. The combination of HBO with Doxil shows neither extra side effects nor promotion of tumor metastasis. These results collectively reveal that the combination of HBO with Doxil is an effective and safe treatment modality. As both HBO and Doxil are routinely used, their combination could quickly translate to clinical trials for patients with hypoxic solid tumors.