Rhodiola extract promotes longevity and stress resistance of Caenorhabditis elegans via DAF-16 and SKN-1

Unraveling anti-aging mystery of green tea in C. elegans: Chemical truth and multiple mechanisms

Tea drinking impacts aging and aging-related diseases. However, knowledge of anti-aging molecules other than the major catechins in complex tea extracts remains limited. Here we used Caenorhabditis elegans to analyze the longevity effects of tea extracts and constituents comprehensively. We found that the hot water extract of green tea prolonged lifespan and heathspan. Further, the MeOH fraction prolonged lifespan significantly longer than other fractions. Correlation analysis between mass spectroscopic data and anti-aging activity suggests that ester-type catechins (ETCs) are the major anti-aging components, including 4 common ETCs, 6 phenylpropanoid-substituted ester-type catechins (PSECs), 5 cinnamoylated catechins (CCs), 7 ester-type flavoalkaloids (ETFs), and 4 cinnamoylated flavoalkaloids (CFs). CFs (200 μM) are the strongest anti-aging ETCs (with the longest 73% lifespan extension). Green tea hot water extracts and ETCs improved healthspan by enhancing stress resistance and reducing ROS accumulation. The mechanistic study suggests that they work by multiple pathways. Moreover, ETCs modulated gut microbial homeostasis, increased the content of short-chain fatty acids, and reduced fat content. Altogether, our study provides new evidence for the anti-aging benefits of green tea and insights into a deep understanding of the chemical truth and multi-target mechanism.

Antioxidant and Stress Resistance Properties of Flavonoids from Chinese Sea Buckthorn Leaves from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

The unique ecological environment of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau has endowed Chinese sea buckthorn leaves with rich bioactivities. In this study, we investigated the bioactivity and stress resistance mechanisms of flavonoids derived from Chinese sea buckthorn leaves (FCL) native to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Our analysis identified a total of 57 flavonoids, mainly flavonol glycosides, from FCL, of which 6 were novel flavonoids. Isorhamnetin glycosides, quercetin glycosides and kaempferol glycosides were the three most dominant classes of compounds in FCL. In particular, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside-7-O-rhamnoside emerged as the most abundant compound. Our results showed that FCL possesses potent antioxidant properties, as evidenced by its ability to effectively scavenge DPPH free radicals and demonstrate ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) levels comparable to Trolox, a well-known antioxidant standard. Furthermore, FCL showed remarkable efficacy in reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels while enhancing the activities of key antioxidant enzymes, namely superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), in Caenorhabditis elegans, a widely used model organism. Mechanistically, we elucidated that FCL exerts its stress resistance effects by modulating of transcription factors DAF-16 and HSF-1 within the insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling pathway (IIS). Activation of these transcription factors orchestrates the expression of downstream target genes including sod-3, ctl-1, hsp16.2, and hsp12.6, thus enhancing the organism's ability to cope with stressors. Overall, our study highlights the rich reservoir of flavonoids in Chinese sea buckthorn leaves as promising candidates for natural medicines, due to their robust antioxidant properties and ability to enhance stress resistance.

Cornus officinalis Extract Enriched with Ursolic Acid Ameliorates UVB-Induced Photoaging in Caenorhabditis elegans

Ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure can contribute to photoaging of skin. Cornus officinalis is rich in ursolic acid (UA), which is beneficial to the prevention of photoaging. Because UA is hardly soluble in water, the Cornus officinalis extract (COE) was obtained using water as the antisolvent to separate the components containing UA from the crude extract of Cornus officinalis. The effect of COE on UVB damage was assessed using Caenorhabditis elegans. The results showed that COE could increase the lifespan and enhance the antioxidant enzyme activity of C. elegans exposed to UVB while decreasing the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level. At the same time, COE upregulated the expression of antioxidant-related genes and promoted the migration of SKN-1 to the nucleus. Moreover, COE inhibited the expression of the skn-1 downstream gene and the extension of the lifespan in skn-1 mutants exposed to UVB, indicating that SKN-1 was required for COE to function. Our findings indicate that COE mainly ameliorates the oxidative stress caused by UVB in C. elegans via the SKN-1/Nrf2 pathway.

Rhodiola rosea: a review in the context of PPPM approach

A natural "medicine and food" plant, Rhodiola rosea (RR) is primarily made up of organic acids, phenolic compounds, sterols, glycosides, vitamins, lipids, proteins, amino acids, trace elements, and other physiologically active substances. In vitro, non-clinical and clinical studies confirmed that it exerts anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune regulatory effects, balances the gut microbiota, and alleviates vascular circulatory disorders. RR can prolong life and has great application potential in preventing and treating suboptimal health, non-communicable diseases, and COVID-19. This narrative review discusses the effects of RR in preventing organ damage (such as the liver, lung, heart, brain, kidneys, intestines, and blood vessels) in non-communicable diseases from the perspective of predictive, preventive, and personalised medicine (PPPM/3PM). In conclusion, as an adaptogen, RR can provide personalised health strategies to improve the quality of life and overall health status.

The role of Caenorhabditis elegans in the discovery of natural products for healthy aging

Covering: 2012 to 2023The human population is aging. Thus, the greatest risk factor for numerous diseases, such as diabetes, cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, is increasing worldwide. Age-related diseases do not typically occur in isolation, but as a result of multi-factorial causes, which in turn require holistic approaches to identify and decipher the mode of action of potential remedies. With the advent of C. elegans as the primary model organism for aging, researchers now have a powerful in vivo tool for identifying and studying agents that effect lifespan and health span. Natural products have been focal research subjects in this respect. This review article covers key developments of the last decade (2012-2023) that have led to the discovery of natural products with healthy aging properties in C. elegans. We (i) discuss the state of knowledge on the effects of natural products on worm aging including methods, assays and involved pathways; (ii) analyze the literature on natural compounds in terms of their molecular properties and the translatability of effects on mammals; (iii) examine the literature on multi-component mixtures with special attention to the studied organisms, extraction methods and efforts regarding the characterization of their chemical composition and their bioactive components. (iv) We further propose to combine small in vivo model organisms such as C. elegans and sophisticated analytical approaches ("wormomics") to guide the way to dissect complex natural products with anti-aging properties.

Antioxidant Peptides Derived from Millet Bran Promote Longevity and Stress Resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans

Millet bran as a by-product of millet grain processing remains a reservoir of active substances. In this study, functional millet bran peptides (MBPE) were obtained from bran proteins after alcalase hydrolysis and ultrafiltration. The activity of MBPE was assessed in vitro and in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). In vitro, compared to unhydrolyzed proteins, MBPE significantly enhanced the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate (ABTS) and hydroxyl radicals scavenging activity, and the scavenging rate of MBPE with 15,000 U/g alcalase reached 42.79 ± 0.31%, 61.38 ± 0.41 and 45.69 ± 0.84%, respectively. In C. elegans, MBPE at 12.5 µg/mL significantly prolonged the lifespan by reducing lipid oxidation, oxidative stress, and lipofuscin levels. Furthermore, MBPE increased the activities of the antioxidant enzymes. Genetic analyses showed that MBPE-mediated longevity was due to a significant increase in the expression of daf-16 and skn-1, which are also involved in xenobiotic and oxidative stress responses. In conclusion, this study found that MBPE had antioxidant and life-prolonging effects, which are important for the development and utilization of millet bran proteins as resources of active ingredients.

The Potent Anti-Tumor Effects of Rhodiola Drinking Are Associated with the Inhibition of the mTOR Pathway and Modification of Tumor Metabolism in the UPII-Mutant Ha-Ras Model

Background: SHR-5 has been used as an "adaptogen" for enhancing physical and mental performance and for fighting stress in the healthy population. The purpose of this study is to determine the chemopreventive efficacy of SHR-5 for superficial bladder cancer and to investigate the underlying mechanisms of action. Methods: UPII-mutant Ha-ras bladder-cancer-transgenic mice, that developed low-grade and noninvasive papillary transitional urothelial cell carcinoma, were fed with 1.25 and 6.25 mg/mL SHR-5 in drinking water for 6 months. The survival of the mice, obstructive uropathy, tumor burden and morphology, and proliferation were evaluated by pathological, molecular, metabolic, and statistical analyses. Results: Approximately 95% or more of the male UPII-mutant Ha-ras mice that drank SHR-5 daily survived over 6 months of age, while only 33.3% of those mice that drank normal water survived over 6 months of age (p < 0.0001); SHR-5 drinking exposure also reduced tumor-bearing bladder weight and urinary tract obstruction and inhibited mTOR signaling in neoplastic tissues. Global metabolic analysis revealed that SHR-5 resulted in increased phenolic metabolites and decreased CoA, a critical metabolic cofactor for lipid metabolism. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the potential of SHR-5 as an anti-aging agent for bladder cancer prevention through reshaping tumor metabolism via the inhibition of the mTOR signaling. Global metabolomics profiling provides a unique and efficient tool for studying the mechanisms of complex herb extracts' action.

Shenqi formula delayed Alzheimer's disease-like symptoms by skn-1 pathway in Caernorhabditis elegans

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Shenqi formula is composed of Codonopsis pilosula (Cp) and Lycium barbarum (Lb), and it is traditionally used for promoting qi and nourishing the spleen, liver and kidney. Cp and Lb have been reported to improve cognitive performance in APP/PS1 mice, prevent the accumulation of Aβ, and reduce the neurotoxicity of Aβ to achieve the anti-Alzheimer's disease (AD) effect.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Shenqi formula was explored the therapeutic effect on Caenorhabditis elegans AD pathological model and the underlying mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Paralysis assay and serotonin sensitivity assay was used to detect whether Shenqi formula can alleviate AD paralysis phenotype, and then DPPH, ABTS, NBT and Fenton methods were applied to investigate the scavenging capacity to free radical, ROS, ·O₂^- and ·OH of Shenqi formula in vitro. H₂DCF-DA and MitoSOX™ Red were employed to measure ROS and ^.O₂^- accumulation, respectively. RNAi was used to knock down the expression of skn-1 and daf-16 related to oxidative stress resistance signalling pathway. Fluorescence microscopy was used to record the expression of SOD-3:GFP, GST-4:GFP, SOD-1:YFP, and the nuclear translocation of SKN-1 and DAF-16. Western blot assay was carried out to test Aβ monomers and oligomers.

RESULTS

Shenqi formula delayed the AD-like pathological characteristics in C. elegans, and the complete Shenqi formula was more effective than Cp or Lb alone. The effect of Shenqi formula on delaying worm paralysis was partially eliminated by skn-1 RNAi, but not daf-16 RNAi. Shenqi formula significantly inhibited the abnormal deposition of Aβ protein, decreased Aβ protein monomers and oligomers. It increased the expressions of gst-4, sod-1, and sod-3 similar to paraquat, companied by rise then fall of ROS and ^.O₂^- in AD worms.

CONCLUSIONS

Shenqi formula at least partially depended on SKN-1 signalling pathway to exert its anti-AD effect, and it is potential to be used as a kind of health food to prevent the progress of AD.

Antioxidant and Antiaging Activity of Fermented Coix Seed Polysaccharides on Caenorhabditis elegans

Aging is closely related to many diseases and is a long-term challenge that humans face. The oxidative damage caused by the imbalance of free radicals is an important factor in aging. In this study, we investigate the antioxidant and antiaging activities of fermented coix seed polysaccharides (FCSPs) via in vitro and in vivo experiments. The FCSPs were extracted by fermenting coix seed with Saccharomyces cerevisiae for 48 h and utilizing water-extracted coix seed polysaccharides (WCSPs) as a control. Their antiaging activity and mechanism were evaluated based on the antiaging model organism Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). The results showed that the molecular weight of the FCSPs extracted by fermentation was smaller than that of the WCSPs, making them more easily absorbed and utilized. At a concentration of 5 g/L, the FCSPs' capacity to scavenge the DPPH·, ABTS⁺·, OH·, and O₂^-· radicals was greater than the WCSPs' capacity by 10.09%, 14.40%, 49.93%, and 12.86%, respectively. Moreover, C. elegans treated with FCSPs exhibited higher antioxidant enzyme activities and a lower accumulation of malonaldehyde. By inhibiting the expression of the pro-aging genes daf-2 and age-1, and upregulating the expression of the antiaging genes daf-16, sod-3, skn-1, and gcs-1 in the insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 (IIS) signaling pathway, the FCSPs could effectively enhance stress tolerance and delay C. elegans aging. The lifespan of C. elegans in the FCSPs group was 5.91% higher than that of the WCSPs group. In conclusion, FCSPs exert better antioxidant and antiaging effects than WCSPs, which can act as a potential functional ingredient or supplement in food.

Anti-senescence effects of Rhodiola crenulate extracts on LO2 cells and bioactive compounds

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rhodiola crenulata (Rc) is a traditional herb, used in Tibetan medicine, has shown promise efficacy in physical performance improvement, work capacity enhancement, fatigue elimination, and altitude sickness prevention. Also, Rc exhibited therapeutic effects on aging-related diseases. However, relevant researches on Rc and their bioactive components are quite few and needs further investigation.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study was to understand the relationship between phytochemical profiles and their activities of Rc extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rc extracts prepared by solvents with various hydrophilicity (i.e. aqueous ethanol (70%, v/v), water, and ethyl acetate), and their chemical compositions and specific compounds were analyzed by chemical analysis method and ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). The regulate effects of Rc extracts on senescence and antioxidant activity were evaluated using the models of LO₂ cells and Caenorhabditis elegans.

RESULTS

The 70% ethanol extracts exhibited better regulating effects on senescence via the assays of senescence -associated β-galactosidase (SAβG) staining and lifespan, which was consistent with the higher antioxidant activities observed based on the results of antioxidant assays. A total of 14 phytochemicals have been identified in 70% ethanol extracts, whereas the other two extracts contained much fewer compounds in varieties. Phytochemical profile of water extract was similar to the first half (polar compounds, running time: 0-6 min) of 70% ethanol extract profile, while those of ethyl acetate extract was consistent with its second half (more nonpolar compounds, running time: 6-12 min).

CONCLUSIONS

The 14 phytochemicals in Rc might exhibit additive or synergistic effects on senescence regulating and antioxidant activities, providing theoretical basis for daily administration of Rc.

Lonicera japonica polysaccharides improve longevity and fitness of Caenorhabditis elegans by activating DAF-16

Polysaccharide is one of the main active ingredients in Lonicera japonica Thunb. (L. japonica). In this study, we examined the anti-aging activities of L.japonica polysaccharides (LJPs) and further explored the mechanisms. Polysaccharides from L.japonica including the crude LJP (CLJP) and the purified fraction (LJP-2-1) were characterized. The molecular weights of CLJP and LJP-2-1 were 1450 kDa and 1280 kDa, respectively. Meanwhile, CLJP was mainly composed of galacturonic acid (23.57 %), galactose (23.45 %) and arabinose (23.45 %). LJP-2-1 was mainly composed of galacturonic acid (51.25 %) and arabinose (22.89 %). In Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), LJPs maximally prolonged mean lifespan by 13.97 %, promoted fitness with increased motility by 40.92 % and pharyngeal pumping by 25.72 %, and decreased lipofuscin accumulation by 38.9 % with intact body length and fecundity. Moreover, CLJP extended the mean lifespan of nematodes under oxidative and heat stress by 16.76 % and 14.05 % respectively by activating stress-related genes and the antioxidant system. Further, CLJP required DAF-16 to prolong the lifespan of nematodes. CLJP upregulated the expression of daf-16 and its targeted downstream genes, including sod-3, gst-4 and hsp-16.2. Moreover, nuclear accumulation of DAF-16 was promoted upon CLJP treatment. Together, our data uncover the role of LJPs in extending lifespan and healthspan through DAF-16.

Alpiniae oxyphylla fructus extract promotes longevity and stress resistance of C. elegans via DAF-16 and SKN-1

Background: Alpiniae Oxyphylla Fructus (AOF) is Traditional Chinese medicine and a dietary supplements for centuries, which posseses cardiotonic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, warming the kidney and nourish the spleen, these biological fuction is related to potential anti-aging properties. However, little is known about their effects on aging. This work aimed to investigate the effects of extracts of AOF on longevity and stress resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) and the mechanisms that underlie its effects. Methods: Wild-type (WT) strand of C.elegans (N2)worms were cultured in growth medium with or without AOF. First, we examined the effects of AOF on lifespan, reproduction and healthspan assay, stress resistance and oxidative analysis, lipofuscin levels. Second, The levels of ROS and MDA, the antioxidant enzyme activities were examined to explore the underlying mechanism of AOF. Finally, the expression of the longevity-related genes were investigated to further understand the AOF's underlying mechanism. Results: The lifespan of C. elegans was prolonged by 23.44% after treatment with high-dose AOF (100 ug/ml). AOF alleviated aging-related declines in C. elegans health and enhanced resistance to heat shock. Furthermore, AOF decreased reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, increased the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase, and reduced accumulation of fat. AOF upregulated the expression of sod-3, gst-4, daf-16, and skn-1 but downregulated the expression of daf-2 and age-1 and accelerated the translocation of DAF-16 into the nucleus. The extended lifespan induced by AOF was reversed in daf-16(mu86) and skn-1(zu135) mutants, indicating that this gene is involved in AOF-regulated longevity. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that AOF extends lifespan and healthspan and enhances stress via boosting the activity of the antioxidant enzyme and controlling the expression of genes associated with insulin/IGF signaling and SKN-1 pathways. As a result, this work suggested AOF as a possible candidate to reduce the signs of aging by activating and inhibiting target genes.

Sea cucumber (Acaudina leucoprocta) peptides extended the lifespan and enhanced antioxidant capacity via DAF-16/DAF-2/SOD-3/OLD-1/PEPT-1 in Caenorhabditis elegans

The sea cucumber peptides (SCPs) from Acaudina leucoprocta were derived from the patented bio-enzyme digestion technology and the molecular weight of obtained SCPs was < 10 kDa. In this study, we investigated the possible anti-aging effects of SCPs on the model of Caenorhabditis elegans and the underlying mechanisms. SCPs extend the average lifespan of nematodes by 31.46%. SCPs enhance the anti-stress capacity of C. elegans by improving heat resistance and mobility, Also, the accumulated potential oxidative stress inducers like lipofuscin and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were reduced to 40.84 and 71.43%. In addition, SCPs can increase the antioxidant capacity in nematodes by enhancing the activity of SOD and CAT and reducing MDA accumulation in nematodes to 32.44%. Mechanistically, SCPs could mediate DAF-16/DAF-2/SOD-3/OLD-1/PEPT-1 axis to improve antioxidant capacity and extend lifespan in nematodes. Taken together, these findings provide a direction for the anti-aging effects of sea cucumber peptides and new insights into the further purifications of SCPs and future research on aging.

Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort as a medicinal and edible plant foods: Antioxidant, anti-aging and neuroprotective properties in Caenorhabditis elegans

Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (CX) is a medicinal and edible plant including a variety of active substances, which may be an available resource for the treatment of related diseases. To expand the medicinal uses of CX, this study aims to explore the antioxidant, anti-aging and neuroprotective effects of the Ligusticum chuanxiong leaves (CXL) and rhizome (CXR) extracts. We first characterize CX phytochemical spectrum by LC-MS as well as antioxidant capacity. Acute toxicity, anti-oxidative stress capacity, lifespan and healthspan was evaluated in C elegans N2. Neuroprotective effect was evaluated in vitro and in vivo (C elegans CL4176 and CL2355). In this study, we detected 74 and 78 compounds from CXR and CXL, respectively, including phthalides, alkaloids, organic acids, terpenes, polyphenols and others. Furthermore, we found that CXs not only protect against oxidative stress, but also prolong the lifespan, alleviate lipofuscin, malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, and improve movement level, antioxidant enzyme activity in C elegans N₂. However, only CXR reduced the β-amyloid peptide (Aβ)-induced paralysis phenotype in CL4176s and alleviated chemosensory behavior dysfunction in CL2355s. In addition, CXR treatment reduced the production of Aβ and ROS, enhanced SOD activity in CL4176s. The possible mechanism of anti-aging of CXL and CXR is to promote the expression of related antioxidant pathway genes, increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes, and reduce the accumulation of ROS, which is dependent on DAF-16 and HSF-1 (only in CXR). CXR was able to activate antioxidase-related (sod-3 and sod-5) and heat shock protein genes (hsp-16.1 and hsp-70) expression, consequently ameliorating proteotoxicity related to Aβ aggregation. In summary, these findings demonstrate the antioxidant, anti-aging and neuroprotective (only in CXR) activities of the CX, which provide an important pharmacological basis for developing functional foods and drugs to relieve the symptoms of aging and AD. However, the material basis of neuroprotective activity and antiaging effects need to be elucidated, and the relationship between these activities should also be clarified in future studies.

Longevity-promoting properties of ginger extract in Caenorhabditis elegans via the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway

Ginger is a traditional medicinal and edible plant with multiple health-promoting properties. Nevertheless, the effects and potential mechanism of ginger on antiaging remain unknown. The aim of this study was to comprehend the antiaging effects and potential mechanism of ginger in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). The current findings showed that the lifespan of C. elegans was prolonged by 23.16% with the supplementation of 60 μg mL-1 ginger extract (GE), and the extension of lifespan was mainly attributed to the major bioactive compounds in GE, 6-, 8-, 10-gingerol and 6-, 8-, 10-shogaol. Subsequently, GE promoted healthy aging by improving nematode movement and attenuating lipofuscin accumulation, and enhanced stress tolerance by up-regulating the expression of stress-related genes and activating DAF-16 and SKN-1. Moreover, lifespan assays of relative mutants revealed that GE mediated extension of lifespan via the insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS) pathway. In summary, GE endowed nematodes (C. elegans) with longevity and stress resistance in an IIS pathway dependent manner.

Phytochemical Profiles, Antioxidant Activity and Antiproliferative Mechanism of Rhodiola rosea L. Phenolic Extract

The phenolic profiles, antioxidant activity, antiproliferative property and the underlying molecular mechanisms of cell apoptosis of Rhodiola rosea free phenolic (RFE) were analyzed in this work. Overall, Rhodiola rosea rhizome phenolic extract (RE) contained Rhodiola rosea rhizome free phenolic extract (RFE) and Rhodiola rosea rhizome bound phenolic extract (RBE). Compared with RBE, RFE contained higher phenolic contents and possessed stronger antioxidant activity. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) results demonstrated that the main phenolics of were epigallocatechin (EGC), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), gallic acid (GA) and catechin. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis found that Rhodiola rosea L. was rich in volatile phytochemicals. In addition, many types of vitamin E and a few kinds of carotenoids were found in Rhodiola rosea. In addition, the main compounds in RFE (GA, EGC, EGCG) and RFE all exhibited excellent antiproliferative activity, indicating the antiproliferative activity of RFE was partly attributed to the synergy effects of the main compounds. Further study confirmed that RFE could block 16.99% of HepG2 cells at S phase and induce 20.32% programmed cell death compared with the control group. Specifically, RFE dose-dependently induced cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest via modulating the p53 signaling pathway including up-regulation of the expression of p53 and Bax while down-regulation of the Bcl-2, cyclin D1 and CDK4 levels. Therefore, RFE exhibited the potential of being developed as an auxiliary antioxidant and a therapeutic agent for cancer.

Two new catechins from Zijuan green tea enhance the fitness and lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans via insulin-like signaling pathways

Green tea polyphenols show positive effects on human health and longevity. However, knowledge of the antiaging properties of green tea is limited to the major catechin epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). The search for new ingredients in tea with strong antiaging activity deserves further study. Here we isolated and identified two new catechins from Zijuan green tea, named zijuanin E (1) and zijuanin F (2). Their structures were identified by extensive high-resolution mass spectroscopy (HR-MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), ultraviolet-vis (UV), infrared (IR) and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopic analyses, and their ¹³C NMR and CD data were calculated. We used the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) to analyze the health benefits and longevity effects of 1 and 2. Compounds 1 and 2 (100 μM) remarkably prolonged the lifespan of C. elegans by 67.2% and 56.0%, respectively, delaying the age-related decline of phenotypes, enhancing stress resistance, and reducing ROS and lipid accumulation. Furthermore, 1 and 2 did not affect the lifespan of daf-16, daf-2, sir-2.1, and skn-1 mutant worms, suggesting that they might work via the insulin/IGF and SKN-1/Nrf2 signaling pathways. Meanwhile, 1 and 2 also exhibited strong antioxidant activity in vitro. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) evidence suggests that zijuanins E and F have strong human serum albumin (HSA) binding ability. Together, zijuanins E and F represent a new valuable class of tea components that promote healthspan and could be developed as potential dietary therapies against aging.

Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical activation of FOXO3 for healthy longevity

Life expectancy has increased substantially over the last 150 years. Yet this means that now most people also spend a greater length of time suffering from various age-associated diseases. As such, delaying age-related functional decline and extending healthspan, the period of active older years free from disease and disability, is an overarching objective of current aging research. Geroprotectors, compounds that target pathways that causally influence aging, are increasingly recognized as a means to extend healthspan in the aging population. Meanwhile, FOXO3 has emerged as a geroprotective gene intricately involved in aging and healthspan. FOXO3 genetic variants are linked to human longevity, reduced disease risks, and even self-reported health. Therefore, identification of FOXO3-activating compounds represents one of the most direct candidate approaches to extending healthspan in aging humans. In this work, we review compounds that activate FOXO3, or influence healthspan or lifespan in a FOXO3-dependent manner. These compounds can be classified as pharmaceuticals, including PI3K/AKT inhibitors and AMPK activators, antidepressants and antipsychotics, muscle relaxants, and HDAC inhibitors, or as nutraceuticals, including primary metabolites involved in cell growth and sustenance, and secondary metabolites including extracts, polyphenols, terpenoids, and other purified natural compounds. The compounds documented here provide a basis and resource for further research and development, with the ultimate goal of promoting healthy longevity in humans.

Identification of polyphenols from Rosa roxburghii Tratt pomace and evaluation of in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity

Rosa roxburghii Tratt pomace (RRTP) has increasingly attracted attention due to its various nutritional ingredients and health benefits. In this study, the free phenolic fraction (RRTP-FPF) and bound phenolic fraction (RRTP-BPF) were extracted from RRTP by solvent extraction method and alkaline hydrolysis method, respectively. The composition of polyphenols in RRTP-FPF and RRTP-BPF were identified by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography equipped with an electrospray ionization and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS). In vitro antioxidant assays indicated that RRTP-FPF and RRTP-BPF could scavenge radicals in a dose-dependent manner, and RRTP-BPF exhibited better scavenging activity than RRTP-FPF. In addition, RRTP-FPF and RRTP-BPF (20 ∼ 100 μg/mL) treatment for 24 h could significantly increase the survival rate and decrease reactive oxygen species (ROS) level of paraquat-exposed nematodes through improving the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). These results suggest that RRTP could be as a good and cheap source of natural antioxidants.

The effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the phenolic profiles, bioactivities and bioaccessibility of Rhodiola

Changes in the phenolic profiles and antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of Rhodiola after simulated in vitro digestion were first assessed in this study. Furthermore, permeability and uptake assays as well as RT-qPCR and western blot analyses were performed in order to explore the bioaccessibility of the digesta and its underlying mechanism. The results reveal that in vitro gastrointestinal digestion significantly reduced the total phenolics and total flavonoids as well as the extracellular, cellular antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of Rhodiola, in which the colon digesta had the largest reduction. However, in vitro digestion augmented the cellular uptake rates of Rhodiola phenolics with higher permeability coefficients. The colon digesta (GA-Dig) exhibited the highest uptake of gallic acid (GA, the main compound) instead of GA in its pure form, indicating the synergistic effects of GA and other phenolics in Rhodiola. In-depth mechanistic studies suggest that the fabulous uptake rates and permeability coefficients of the colon digesta were triggered by the down-regulation of the expression levels of ABCF2 mRNA and protein. These findings indicate that simulated gastrointestinal digestion could promote the bioaccessibility and bioactivities of phenolics in Rhodiola.

Mechanism of Longevity Extension of Caenorhabditis elegans Induced by Schizophyllum commune Fermented Supernatant With Added Radix Puerariae

Schizophyllum commune (S. commune) fermented supernatant with added Radix Puerariae (SC-RP) showed significant antioxidant activity in our previous work. However, the possible lifespan and healthspan extending the capacity of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) and the underlying mechanism were not illuminated. In this study, the effect of SC-RP on extending the lifespan and improving stress resistance of C. elegans were examined. Additionally, the underlying lifespan extending molecular mechanisms of SC-RP were explored. Treated with SC-RP at 10 μg/mL, the lifespan of C. elegans increased by 24.89% (P &lt; 0.01). Also, SC-RP prolonged the healthspan of the nematode, including reducing lipofuscin levels, improving mobility and enhancing resistance to oxidative stress and heat shock. Moreover, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities were increased for SC-RP treated C. elegans. Meantime the intracellular levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were attenuated. Express levels of eight genes including daf-2, daf-16, sod-3, skn-1, gst-4, clk-1, age-1 and mev-1 were analyzed by RT-PCR method for possible C. elegan anti-aging mechanisms of SC-RP. Expression levels of key genes daf-2, gst-4 and sod-3 were up-regulated, while that of daf-16, skn-1, and clk-1 were down-regulated. The results suggest that SC-RP could extend the lifespan and healthspan of C. elegans significantly, and the IIS pathway, SKN-1/Nrf2 pathway and mitochondrial metabolism pathway were primarily considered associated. Thus, SC-RP is a potential component to improve aging and aging-related symptoms as new functional materials.

Genes and Longevity of Lifespan

Aging is a complex process indicated by low energy levels, declined physiological activity, stress induced loss of homeostasis leading to the risk of diseases and mortality. Recent developments in medical sciences and an increased availability of nutritional requirements has significantly increased the average human lifespan worldwide. Several environmental and physiological factors contribute to the aging process. However, about 40% human life expectancy is inherited among generations, many lifespan associated genes, genetic mechanisms and pathways have been demonstrated during last decades. In the present review, we have evaluated many human genes and their non-human orthologs established for their role in the regulation of lifespan. The study has included more than fifty genes reported in the literature for their contributions to the longevity of life. Intact genomic DNA is essential for the life activities at the level of cell, tissue, and organ. Nucleic acids are vulnerable to oxidative stress, chemotherapies, and exposure to radiations. Efficient DNA repair mechanisms are essential for the maintenance of genomic integrity, damaged DNA is not replicated and transferred to next generations rather the presence of deleterious DNA initiates signaling cascades leading to the cell cycle arrest or apoptosis. DNA modifications, DNA methylation, histone methylation, histone acetylation and DNA damage can eventually lead towards apoptosis. The importance of calorie restriction therapy in the extension of lifespan has also been discussed. The role of pathways involved in the regulation of lifespan such as DAF-16/FOXO (forkhead box protein O1), TOR and JNK pathways has also been particularized. The study provides an updated account of genetic factors associated with the extended lifespan and their interactive contributory role with cellular pathways.

Enhanced exopolysaccharide yield and antioxidant activities of Schizophyllum commune fermented products by the addition of Radix Puerariae

To increase the production of exopolysaccharides (EPS) and expand the application of Schizophyllum commune (S. commune) fermentation liquid, the traditional Chinese medicine Radix Puerariae (RP) with outstanding biological activity was selected as a culture additive to improve the EPS yield and enhance the antioxidant activity of fermented products from S. commune. The effects of three independent factors: A: initial pH (5.0-6.0), B: concentration of RP (10-14 g L-1), and C: inoculum size (8-12%, v/v) on the EPS yield were evaluated. The results of response surface methodology (RSM) showed that the optimal fermentation conditions were: A: 5.40, B: 12.80 g L-1, and C: 10.0%. The optimal yield of EPS was 8.41 ± 0.12 mg mL-1, which showed an insignificant (p > 0.05) difference with the predicted value (8.45 mg mL-1). The fermented supernatants cultured from RP-supplemented medium (SC-RP) or regular medium (SC) were collected for further study. FT-IR analysis of EPS-1 (purified from SC) and EPS-2 (purified from SC-RP) showed that their structures were consistent, indicating that the addition of RP did not affect the structure of schizophyllan (SPG). In addition, compared with SC, the in vitro antioxidant activities of SC-RP were significantly improved with ORAC values and FRAP values increasing by 11.56-fold and 14.69-fold, respectively. There was a significant correlation among the phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity of SC-RP in this study. Besides, SC-RP was detected to contain more than 25 bioactive ingredients compared with that of SC, which may play a key role in its antioxidant activities. Thus, these results indicated that RP enhanced the yield of SPG and improved the antioxidant activity of the fermented products by S. commune. Accordingly, the fermentation liquid of S. commune with the addition of RP may have potential application in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.