Antioxidants and atherosclerotic heart disease

Cellular ROS and Antioxidants: Physiological and Pathological Role

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly reactive oxygen derivatives that include free radicals such as superoxide anion radical (O2•-) and hydroxyl radical (HO•), as well as non-radical molecules hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), peroxynitrite (ONOO-), and hypochlorous acid (HOCl) [...].

Association Between Physical Activity Levels in Different Domains and Cardiac Autonomic Modulation in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Cross-sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer survivors frequently present cardiac autonomic dysfunction. Physical activity (PA) has been associated with better cardiac autonomic modulation (CAM) in breast cancer survivors.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyze the association between CAM and PA levels performed in different domains (work and occupation, sport and exercise, and leisure time and commuting) in breast cancer survivors.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study with 99 breast cancer survivors (age, 55.3 ± 10.4 years). Cardiac autonomic modulation was assessed by heart rate variability, and PA levels at work and occupation, sport and exercise, and leisure time and commuting were assessed using the Baecke PA questionnaire. The sum of these 3 domains provided the total PA. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare CAM between active and inactive women in different domains of PA.

RESULTS

Cardiac autonomic modulation was similar between active and inactive women in the different domains ( P > .05). However, when considering the total PA, active breast cancer survivors presented higher SDNN (average standard deviation of all normal RR intervals) (20.0 ± 13.4 vs 28.8 ± 14.0; P = .008) and SD2 (standard deviation of the long-term intervals between consecutive heartbeats) indices (29.2 ± 17.3 vs 38.7 ± 19.9; P = .005) compared with their inactive counterparts.

CONCLUSION

Breast cancer survivors with higher total PA presented better CAM compared with their less active peers.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

The results of this study are promising and show the importance of increasing PA levels in different domains for the maintenance of cardiovascular health among breast cancer survivors.

Antioxidant Peptides from the Collagen of Antler Ossified Tissue and Their Protective Effects against H2O2-Induced Oxidative Damage toward HaCaT Cells

Antler ossified tissue has been widely used for the extraction of bioactive peptides. In this study, collagen was prepared from antler ossified tissue via acetic acid and pepsin. Five different proteases were used to hydrolyze the collagen and the hydrolysate treated by neutrase (collagen peptide named ACP) showed the highest DPPH radical clearance rate. The extraction process of ACP was optimized by response surface methodology, and the optimal conditions were as follows: a temperature of 52 °C, a pH of 6.1, and an enzyme concentration of 3200 U/g, which resulted in the maximum DPPH clearance rate of 74.41 ± 0.48%. The peptides (ACP-3) with the strongest antioxidant activity were obtained after isolation and purification, and its DPPH free radical clearance rate was 90.58 ± 1.27%; at the same time, it exhibited good scavenging activity for ABTS, hydroxyl radical, and superoxide anion radical. The study investigated the protective effect of ACP-3 on oxidative damage in HaCaT cells. The findings revealed that all groups that received ACP-3 pretreatment exhibited increased activities of SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT compared to the model group. Furthermore, ACP-3 pretreatment reduced the levels of ROS and MDA in HaCaT cells subjected to H2O2-induced oxidative damage. These results suggest that collagen peptides derived from deer antler ossified tissue can effectively mitigate the oxidative damage caused by H2O2 in HaCaT cells, thereby providing a foundation for the utilization of collagen peptides in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Nutritional, biochemical, and clinical applications of carob: A review

Carob is botanically called as Ceratonia siliqua and belongs to the Legumes family. The fruit is derived from hermaphrodite trees and hard in shape. The carob contains high sugar contents in pulp, fat in seed and minerals like potassium, calcium, and phosphorus are present in pods. Polyphenols and antioxidants are abundant in leaves and pods. It can be used for enhancing human health due to its high nutritional profile. Carob gum is used in the pharmaceutical industry in the form of pomades, anti-celiac ingredients, pills, and dental paste. The clinical carob can aid as an anti-cancer, anti-reflux, anti-diabetic, anti-diarrheal, anti-hyperlipidemia, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal. Nowadays, carob seeds are being used as an alternative to cocoa powder in food items whereas the leaves, pods, and seeds of carob are also historically used as food for animal feed. However, these parts of carob are available in markets with reasonable prices. Carob production, though with a rising contribution, contributes to the local economy. In this sense, we can incorporate knowledge on the chemical properties and the biological effect of carob fruits on human health. In this study, the supportive and health-promoting impacts of carob are discussed along with the clinical testing obtained from natural constituents of carob. In addition, further studies can be performed to extract and separate polyphenols and antioxidant potential for the development of functional that play a valuable role in pharmaceutical and food sectors.

Vitamin C mitigates hematological and biochemical alterations caused by di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate toxicity in female albino mice, Mus musculus

Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is ubiquitous environmental contaminant and identified as endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC), present in plastics as plasticizer. Due to its versatile use, human exposure level reaches to danger limit. The main focus of our study is to see the effect of vitamin C on hematological and biochemical alterations caused by Di(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate toxicity in female albino mice, Mus musculus. It is found to cause defects of the liver, kidney, and lungs. Its anti-androgenic nature brings the main focus on its toxicity associated with reproductive and endocrine system. In this experimental study, 18 young female Swiss albino mice, Mus musculus, were used and divided into 3 groups of 6 animals each as control (corn oil vehicle), DEHP group (100 mg/kg body weight dissolved in corn oil), and DEHP + vitamin-C group (100 mg/kg body weight each, dissolved in corn oil and double distilled water, respectively) for 90 days. In this research, serum metabolites were evaluated to study the effect of DEHP on glucose, total protein, and lipid profile along with some hematological, enzymological, and oxidative stress parameters. Simultaneously, we compared the effectiveness of vitamin-C against DEHP toxicity to mitigate the serum homeostasis disturbance. In present study, we observed, in DEHP-treated animals, glucose, triglycerides, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), total protein, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), acid phosphatase (ACP), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels increased remarkably, whereas total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total RBC count, total WBC count, and hemoglobin (Hb) level significantly decreased as compared to control group. In addition, we noticed there was a decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and increase in levels of lipid peroxidation (MDA) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in DEHP treatment group as compared to control group. The results indicated vitamin C had a better improving effect against DEHP toxicity on balancing metabolic abnormalities and inflammation-related comorbidities.

Cellular Mechanisms of Coronary Artery Spasm

Coronary artery spasm (CAS) is a reversible phenomenon caused by spontaneous excessive vascular smooth muscle contractility and vascular wall hypertonicity, which results in partial or complete closure of the lumen of normal or atherosclerotic coronary arteries. The clinical picture of CAS includes chest discomfort which is similar in quality to that of stable effort angina. Mechanisms underlying the development of CAS are still unclear. CAS certainly is a multifactorial disease. In this review, we paid attention to the role of the main pathophysiologic mechanisms in CAS: endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, smooth muscle hypercontractility, atherosclerosis and thrombosis, and mutations leading to deficient aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) activity. These findings might shed novel insight on the underlying mechanisms and identify potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases in the future.

Salt effects on mixed composition membranes containing an antioxidant lipophilic edaravone derivative: a computational-experimental study

The protection of lipid membranes against oxidation avoids diseases associated with oxidative stress. As a strategy to contrast it, functionalized lipids with antioxidant activity are used to become part of membranes thus protecting them. For this purpose, a lipophilic edaravone derivative has been synthesized, adding a C18 saturated chain to the original structure. The antioxidant activity of C18-Edv has been demonstrated in our previous work. In this study, molecular dynamics simulations have been performed to define the effects of NaCl, MgCl₂, KCl, and CaCl₂ salts on a palmitoyl-oleoyl-sn-glycero-phosphocholine (POPC) lipid bilayer encapsulating C18-Edv. The results showed how different salts influence POPC lateral diffusion, and the movements of C18-Edv heads, which are antioxidant moieties, were correlated to the ability of C18-Edv molecules to protect membranes. MgCl₂ showed a negative impact leading to C18-Edv clusterization and membrane stretching, while KCl and NaCl showed a moderate influence on the mixed lipid membrane structure. CaCl₂ increased the exposure of the C18-Edv heads to the lipid-water interface, resulting in the salt with a higher propensity to guarantee protection against radicals in the aqueous phase. Finally, C18-Edv-POPC liposomes have been prepared following the simulation conditions, and then an experimental Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) assay has been performed to confirm the in silico predicted results.

p66Shc in Cardiovascular Pathology

p66Shc is a widely expressed protein that governs a variety of cardiovascular pathologies by generating, and exacerbating, pro-apoptotic ROS signals. Here, we review p66Shc’s connections to reactive oxygen species, expression, localization, and discuss p66Shc signaling and mitochondrial functions. Emphasis is placed on recent p66Shc mitochondrial function discoveries including structure/function relationships, ROS identity and regulation, mechanistic insights, and how p66Shc-cyt c interactions can influence p66Shc mitochondrial function. Based on recent findings, a new p66Shc mitochondrial function model is also put forth wherein p66Shc acts as a rheostat that can promote or antagonize apoptosis. A discussion of how the revised p66Shc model fits previous findings in p66Shc-mediated cardiovascular pathology follows.

Vitamin E: Where Are We Now in Vascular Diseases?

Vitamin E is one of the most popular fat-soluble vitamins in pathological research and has been under scrutiny since the 1980s as a vital dietary component of food. The antioxidant effect of vitamin E has been widely studied due to its benefits in the prevention of various cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, alternative effects of vitamin E, in terms of anti-inflammatory pathways and gene regulation, have also been of interest to researchers. This review examines the role of dietary vitamin E (α-tocopherol) as an antioxidant and bioactive molecule in promoting vascular health. While the antioxidant effect of vitamin E is well established, knowledge about its capacity as a promising regulatory molecule in the control of the vascular system is limited. The aim of this review is to discuss some of these mechanisms and summarize their role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Here, we also briefly discuss foods rich in vitamin E, and deliberate some potential toxicological effects of excessive supplemental vitamin E in the body.

Role of Phenolic Compounds in Human Disease: Current Knowledge and Future Prospects

Inflammation is a natural protective mechanism that occurs when the body's tissue homeostatic mechanisms are disrupted by biotic, physical, or chemical agents. The immune response generates pro-inflammatory mediators, but excessive output, such as chronic inflammation, contributes to many persistent diseases. Some phenolic compounds work in tandem with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators' activity or gene expression, including cyclooxygenase (COX). Various phenolic compounds can also act on transcription factors, such as nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) or nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), to up-or downregulate elements within the antioxidant response pathways. Phenolic compounds can inhibit enzymes associated with the development of human diseases and have been used to treat various common human ailments, including hypertension, metabolic problems, incendiary infections, and neurodegenerative diseases. The inhibition of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) by phenolic compounds has been used to treat hypertension. The inhibition of carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzyme represents a type 2 diabetes mellitus therapy, and cholinesterase inhibition has been applied to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD). Phenolic compounds have also demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties to treat skin diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Plant extracts and phenolic compounds exert protective effects against oxidative stress and inflammation caused by airborne particulate matter, in addition to a range of anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-aging, antibacterial, and antiviral activities. Dietary polyphenols have been used to prevent and treat allergy-related diseases. The chemical and biological contributions of phenolic compounds to cardiovascular disease have also been described. This review summarizes the recent progress delineating the multifunctional roles of phenolic compounds, including their anti-inflammatory properties and the molecular pathways through which they exert anti-inflammatory effects on metabolic disorders. This study also discusses current issues and potential prospects for the therapeutic application of phenolic compounds to various human diseases.

Antioxidant for Neurological Diseases and Neurotrauma and Bioengineering Approaches

Antioxidants are a class of molecules with an innate affinity to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are known to cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress has been associated with a wide range of diseases mediated by physiological damage to the cells. ROS play both beneficial and detrimental roles in human physiology depending on their overall concentration. ROS are an inevitable byproduct of the normal functioning of cells, which are produced as a result of the mitochondrial respiration process. Since the establishment of the detrimental effect of oxidative stress in neurological disorders and neurotrauma, there has been growing interest in exploring antioxidants to rescue remaining or surviving cells and reverse the neurological damage. In this review, we present the survey of different antioxidants studied in neurological applications including neurotrauma. We also delve into bioengineering approaches developed to deliver antioxidants to improve their cellular uptake in neurological applications.

Review of Nephelium lappaceum and Nephelium ramboutan-ake: A High Potential Supplement

Nephelium lappaceum (N. lappaceum) and Nephelium ramboutan-ake (N. ramboutan-ake) are tropical fruits that gain popularity worldwide due to their tastiness. Currently, their potential to be used as pharmaceutical agents is underestimated. Chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and aging have high incidence rates in the modern world. Furthermore, pharmaceutical agents targeting pathogenic microorganisms have been hampered by the growing of antimicrobial resistance threats. The idea of food therapy leads to extensive nutraceuticals research on the potential of exotic fruits such as N. lappaceum and N. ramboutan-ake to act as supplements. Phytochemicals such as phenolic compounds that present in the fruit act as potent antioxidants that contribute to the protective effects against diseases induced by oxidative stress. Fruit residuals such as the peel and seeds hold greater nutraceutical potential than the edible part. This review highlights the antioxidant and biological activities (anti-neoplastic, anti-microbial, hypoglycemic actions and anti-aging), and chemical contents of different parts of N. lappaceum and N. ramboutan-ake. These fruits contain a diverse and important chemical profile that can alleviate or cure diseases.

Association between cardiac autonomic modulation and sedentary behavior in breast cancer survivors: a 12-month cohort study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to analyze the longitudinal influence of sitting time (ST) on cardiac autonomic modulation (CAM) and resting heart rate (RHR) in a 12-month cohort of 67 breast cancer survivors.

METHODS

CAM was assessed by heart rate variability with heart monitor which also assessed RHR, and ST was self-reported. The relationship between the variables was analyzed by the Pearson correlation and its magnitude by linear regression.

RESULTS

At baseline, no associations were found between ST and CAM or RHR. In the delta analyses, a decrease in RMSSD, SD1, and HF(ms²) was associated with sitting time. At 12-month follow-up, there was an increase in the ST and a decrease in RHR. ST was negatively related with CAM (RMSSD, PNN50, and SD1), but no association was observed between ST and RHR.

CONCLUSION

The increase in ST was associated with worsening of CAM after 12-month follow-up. Promoting reduction in ST will be an important strategy against cardiovascular impairment in breast cancer survivors.

The Relationship Between Serum Uric Acid at Different Concentrations of Lipid Indices and the Risk of Myocardial Revascularization in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Retrospective Analysis

Objective: Both serum uric acid (SUA) levels and lipid components, such as LDL, HDL, and Lp(a), have been reported to associate with CAD. However, the influence of SUA status at different concentrations of lipid indices for the risk of myocardial revascularization (MRT) in ACS patients is currently unknown.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed a hospital-based sample of 14,234 ACS patients with no previous history of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. All patients went for coronary angiography. Binary logistic regression models were performed, and the odds ratios (OR) at 95% confidence interval (CIs) were used to approximate the associated risk of UA and lipid profile for myocardial revascularization, with the lowest quartile/tertile serving as the reference category.

Results: Overall, 8,818 (61.9%) patients undergone MRT out of 14,234 patients. Elevated SUA and HDL were negatively associated with an increased likelihood of MRT during admission (P < 0.001). However, LDL and Lp(a) levels were positively associated with MRT among ACS patients. Furthermore, interaction analyses between SUA and lipid profiles, particularly LDL and Lp(a), compared with those in the lowest quartile of SUA levels, show that patients in higher SUA quartiles grouped by lipid components had a significantly lower chance of undergoing MRT, with the lowest OR (95%CI) for subjects being 0.222 (0.170-0.290), 0.478 (0.374-0.612), and 0.604 (0.468-0.780) in LDL tertiles, being 0.671(0.523-0.862), 0.316(0.242-0.413), and 0.410 (0.310-0.542) in Lp(a) tertiles, respectively. In the three tertiles of HDL levels, the incidence of MRT dropped steadily as SUA levels increased. Also, we further analyzed ACS patients without diabetes. Compared with the first quartile of SUA levels, the risks of MRT were significantly lower in different tertiles of lipids components [LDL, Lp(a), HDL].

Conclusion: An increase in SUA levels may decrease the chance of undergoing MRT in ACS patients, even in those with increased Lp(a) and LDL-c. Elevated serum uric acid may play a protective role during an acute stage of ACS.

Association of low plasma antioxidant levels with all-cause mortality and coronary events in healthy middle-aged men from France and Northern Ireland in the PRIME study

BACKGROUND

The main underlying risk factors associated with coronary heart disease (CHD) are modifiable and oxidative injury and systemic inflammatory damage represent key aetiological factors associated with the development and progression of CHD and premature mortality.

OBJECTIVE

To examine associations of plasma antioxidant status with all-cause mortality and fatal or non-fatal cardiovascular events.

DESIGN

The PRIME study prospectively evaluated 9709 men aged 50-59 years between 1991 and 1993 in Northern Ireland and France who were free of CHD at recruitment and followed annually for deaths and cardiovascular events for 10 years. Serum concentrations of vitamin C, retinol, two forms of vitamin E (α- and γ-tocopherol) and six carotenoids were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography. Baseline conventional risk factors were considered, as well as socioeconomic differences and lifestyle behaviours including diet, smoking habit, physical activity, and alcohol consumption through Cox regression analyses.

RESULTS

At 10 years, there were 538 deaths from any cause and 440 fatal or non-fatal cardiovascular events. After adjustment for country, age, systolic blood pressure, diabetes, body mass index, cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, height, total physical activity, alcohol consumption and smoking habit, higher levels of all antioxidants were associated with significantly lower risk of all-cause mortality, with the exception of γ-tocopherol. Only retinol was significantly associated with decreased risk of cardiovascular events in a fully adjusted model.

CONCLUSIONS

Low antioxidant levels contribute to the gradient of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular incidence independent of lifestyle behaviours and traditional cardiovascular and socioeconomic risk factors.

Association between serum Vitamin E concentrations and the presence of Metabolic Syndrome: A population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of clinical and metabolic features that include central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension and impaired glucose tolerance. These features are accompanied by increased oxidative stress and impaired antioxidant defenses. Vitamin E is a major factor in the non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses. The aim of present study was to investigate the association between serum levels of vitamin E and the presence of MetS and its components in a sample population of Mashhad stroke and heart atherosclerotic disorder (MASHAD) cohort study.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was carried out in 128 subjects with MetS and 235 subjects without MetS. MetS was defined according to the International-Diabetes-Federation criteria. Serum levels of vitamin E were measured using the HPLC method. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were measured using standard protocols.  Results. MetS patients had significantly lower serum levels of vitamin E (Vit E), Vit E/Total cholesterol (TC), and Vit E/ (TC+triglyceride(TG)) compared to the control group (P < 0.05).  Vit E/ (TG+TC) was also significantly lower in diabetics or those with elevated levels of high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). Additionally, there was a significant association between Vit E/ (TG + Total Cho) and the number of components of the metabolic syndrome (p= 0.02) Conclusions. There is a significant inverse association between indices of Vit E status and the presence of MetS. Moreover, a significantly lower Vit E/ (TC+TG) was observed along with individuals with increasing numbers of components of the MetS.

Vitamin C-Protective Role in Oxidative Stress Conditions Induced in Human Normal Colon Cells by Label-Free Raman Spectroscopy and Imaging

Colorectal cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide. Conventional diagnostics methods of colorectal cancer can detect it at an advanced stage. Spectroscopic methods, including Raman spectroscopy and imaging, are becoming more and more popular in medical applications, and allow fast, precise, and unambiguous differentiation of healthy and cancerous samples. The most important advantage of Raman spectroscopy is the ability to identify biomarkers that help in the differentiation of healthy and cancerous cells based on biochemistry of sample and spectra typical for lipids, proteins, and DNA. The aim of the study was to evaluate the biochemical and structural features of human colon cell lines based on Raman spectroscopy and imaging: normal cells CCD-18 Co, normal cells CCD-18 Co under oxidative stress conditions, and normal cells CCD-18 Co at first treated by using tert-Butyl hydroperoxide and then supplemented by vitamin C in high concentration to show the protective role of vitamin C in micromolar concentrations against ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species). Raman data obtained for normal cells injured by ROS were compared with spectra typical for cancerous cells. Statistically assisted analysis has shown that normal ROS-injured and cancerous human colon cells can be distinguished based on their unique vibrational properties. The research carried out proves that label-free Raman spectroscopy may play an important role in clinical diagnostics differentiation of normal and cancerous colon cells and may be a source of intraoperative information supporting histopathological analysis.

The effects of olive oil and cholesterol enriched diets on aortic fatty streak development and lipid peroxidation in rabbits

BACKGROUND AND AIM

High plasma cholesterol levels, mainly low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL) is a widely recognized major risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD). According to epidemiologic studies' findings, people from the Mediterranean countries have lower CHD rates than other countries; in these countries the usual diet is high in olive oil. The present study compares the effects of a cholesterol-enriched diet with or without adding olive oil on serum lipoproteins, lipid peroxidation, and atherosclerosis development.

METHODS

Twenty Dutch male rabbits were categorized into four groups (one group as control, and others as experimental). They received one of control (CON), olive oil-rich (OIL), cholesterol-rich (CHOL), and cholesterol + olive oil (COIL) diet for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples from the heart were collected at the beginning and the end of the experimental period.

RESULTS

Means of serum lipids were not significantly different at the beginning of the experimental period. After the intervention, significant differences were shown in total cholesterol (TC) (CON: 27.75 ± 4.83, OIL: 19.75 ± 2.62, CHOL: 1757.20 ± 149.62, COIL: 2906.40 ± 421.01; P < 0.001), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) (CON: 16 ± 1.47, OIL: 10.25 ± 1.70, CHOL: 22.2 ± 3.83, COIL: 28.60 ± 6.27; P = 0.04), triglyceride (CON: 65 ± 12.21, OIL: 71.75 ± 6.23, CHOL: 244.2 ± 44.45, COIL: 775.6 ± 105.07; P < 0.001), and MDA between groups (CON: 0.57 ± 0.10, OIL: 0.63 ± 0.15, CHOL: 5.62 ± 0.18, COIL: 2.06 ± 0.64; P < 0.001). The comparison of CHOL and the COIL groups showed a higher mean of malondialdehyde (MDA) in group CHOL (4.47 ± 0.28 vs 1.1 ± 0.6; P < 0.001). Aortic lesion was not observed in CON and OIL groups. Aortic lesion degree was significantly lower in the COIL group compared to the CHOL (2.4 ± 0.6 vs 3.66 ± 0.33; P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings showed the preventive effect of olive oil on atherosclerosis development. However, it is independent of the plasma lipoprotein effect, and olive oil probably acts on arteries directly.

Dietary patterns and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation: A systematic review of observational and intervention studies

INTRODUCTION

Oxidative stress and inflammation are known to play a critical role in ageing and chronic disease development and could therefore represent important targets for developing dietary strategies for disease prevention. We aimed to systematically review the results from observational studies and intervention trials published in the last 5 years on the associations between dietary patterns and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation.

METHODS

A systematic search of the PubMed, MEDLINE and Web of Science (January 2015 to October 2020) was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Methodological quality of selected studies was evaluated based on the NUTRIGRADE and BIOCROSS assessment tools.

RESULTS

In total, 29 studies among which 16 observational studies and 13 intervention studies were found eligible for review. Overall, results indicated an inverse association between plant-based diets - the Mediterranean and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet - and oxidative stress and proinflammatory biomarkers. In observational studies, inverse associations were further revealed for the vegetarian diet, the USDA Healthy Eating Index (HEI) - based diet and the paleolithic diet, whereas a positive association was seen for western and fast food diets. Quality assessment suggested that majority of dietary intervention studies (n = 12) were of low to moderate quality.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence that the plant-based dietary patterns are associated with lowered levels of oxidative stress and inflammation and may provide valid means for chronic disease prevention. Future large-scale intervention trials using validated biomarkers are warranted to confirm these findings.

Reactive Oxygen Species and Their Involvement in Red Blood Cell Damage in Chronic Kidney Disease

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) released in cells are signaling molecules but can also modify signaling proteins. Red blood cells perform a major role in maintaining the balance of the redox in the blood. The main cytosolic protein of RBC is hemoglobin (Hb), which accounts for 95-97%. Most other proteins are involved in protecting the blood cell from oxidative stress. Hemoglobin is a major factor in initiating oxidative stress within the erythrocyte. RBCs can also be damaged by exogenous oxidants. Hb autoxidation leads to the generation of a superoxide radical, of which the catalyzed or spontaneous dismutation produces hydrogen peroxide. Both oxidants induce hemichrome formation, heme degradation, and release of free iron which is a catalyst for free radical reactions. To maintain the redox balance, appropriate antioxidants are present in the cytosol, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and peroxiredoxin 2 (PRDX2), as well as low molecular weight antioxidants: glutathione, ascorbic acid, lipoic acid, α-tocopherol, β-carotene, and others. Redox imbalance leads to oxidative stress and may be associated with overproduction of ROS and/or insufficient capacity of the antioxidant system. Oxidative stress performs a key role in CKD as evidenced by the high level of markers associated with oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA in vivo. In addition to the overproduction of ROS, a reduced antioxidant capacity is observed, associated with a decrease in the activity of SOD, GPx, PRDX2, and low molecular weight antioxidants. In addition, hemodialysis is accompanied by oxidative stress in which low-biocompatibility dialysis membranes activate phagocytic cells, especially neutrophils and monocytes, leading to a respiratory burst. This review shows the production of ROS under normal conditions and CKD and its impact on disease progression. Oxidative damage to red blood cells (RBCs) in CKD and their contribution to cardiovascular disease are also discussed.

Factors associated with high LDL-Cholesterol in the Brazilian adult population: National Health Survey

The study analyzed factors associated with high LDL-Cholesterol in Brazilian population. This is a cross-sectional study with laboratory data from 8,534 individuals collected in National Health Survey were analyzed. The prevalence levels of LDL-Cholesterol <130 and ≥ 130 mg/dL were calculated. The outcome variable was high LDL-Cholesterol (≥ 130 mg/dL) and explanatory variables were sociodemographic, anthropometric, lifestyle, chronic diseases and self-rated health. To Poisson regression was used and estimated prevalence ratios (PR) with 95% confidence levels (CI) to verify associations. The prevalence of high LDL-Cholesterol was 18.58%. In the final multivariate model were associated with the outcome: 30 to 44 years (PR 1.99; CI 1.58-2.54), 45 to 59 years (PR 2.89; CI 2.29-3.64), 60 years or more (PR 2.90; CI 2.29-3.68), living in the Northeast Region (PR 1.16; CI 1.02 - 1.32), overweight (PR 1.32; CI 1.15-1.51), obesity (PR 1.41; CI 1.19-1.65) or anemia (PR 0.66; CI 0.54-0.80). The LDL-Cholesterol was associated with aging, overweight, obesity, live in the Northeast and anemia. The monitoring of LDL levels is relevant, due to the increased risk with age, and can guide the adopting healthy lifestyles and diagnosis in places with lower access.

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Metabolomics Approach for the Analysis of Major Legume Sprouts Coupled to Chemometrics

Legume sprouts are a fresh nutritive source of phytochemicals of increasing attention worldwide owing to their many health benefits. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was utilized for the metabolite fingerprinting of 4 major legume sprouts, belonging to family Fabaceae, to be exploited for quality control purposes. Thirty-two metabolites were identified belonging to different classes, i.e., fatty acids, sugars, amino acids, nucleobases, organic acids, sterols, alkaloids, and isoflavonoids. Quantitative NMR was employed for assessing the major identified metabolite levels and multivariate data analysis was utilized to assess metabolome heterogeneity among sprout samples. Isoflavones were detected exclusively in Cicer sprouts, whereas Trigonella was characterized by 4-hydroxyisoleucine. Vicia sprouts were distinguished from other legume sprouts by the presence of L-Dopa versus acetate abundance in Lens. A common alkaloid in all sprouts was trigonelline, detected at 8–25 µg/mg, suggesting its potential role in legume seeds’ germination. Trigonelline was found at highest levels in Trigonella sprouts. The aromatic NMR region data (δ 11.0–5.0 ppm) provided a better classification power than the full range (δ 11.0–0.0 ppm) as sprout variations mostly originated from secondary metabolites, which can serve as chemotaxonomic markers.

Characterization of a Sandwich PLGA-Gallic Acid-PLGA Coating on Mg Alloy ZK60 for Bioresorbable Coronary Artery Stents

Absorbable magnesium stents have become alternatives for treating restenosis owing to their better mechanical properties than those of bioabsorbable polymer stents. However, without modification, magnesium alloys cannot provide the proper degradation rate required to match the vascular reform speed. Gallic acid is a phenolic acid with attractive biological functions, including anti-inflammation, promotion of endothelial cell proliferation, and inhibition of smooth muscle cell growth. Thus, in the present work, a small-molecule eluting coating is designed using a sandwich-like configuration with a gallic acid layer enclosed between poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) layers. This coating was deposited on ZK60 substrate, a magnesium alloy that is used to fabricate bioresorbable coronary artery stents. Electrochemical analysis showed that the corrosion rate of the specimen was ~2000 times lower than that of the bare counterpart. The released gallic acid molecules from sandwich coating inhibit oxidation by capturing free radicals, selectively promote the proliferation of endothelial cells, and inhibit smooth muscle cell growth. In a cell migration assay, sandwich coating delayed wound closure in smooth muscle cells. The sandwich coating not only improved the corrosion resistance but also promoted endothelialization, and it thus has great potential for the development of functional vascular stents that prevent late-stent restenosis.

Vitamin C: historical perspectives and heart failure

Vitamin C (Vit C) is an ideal antioxidant as it is easily available, water soluble, very potent, least toxic, regenerates other antioxidants particularly Vit E, and acts as a cofactor for different enzymes. It has received much attention due to its ability in limiting reactive oxygen species, oxidative stress, and nitrosative stress, as well as it helps to maintain some of the normal metabolic functions of the cell. However, over 140 clinical trials using Vit C in different pathological conditions such as myocardial infarction, gastritis, diabetes, hypertension, stroke, and cancer have yielded inconsistent results. Such a divergence calls for new strategies to establish practical significance of Vit C in heart failure or even in its prevention. For a better understanding of Vit C functioning, it is important to revisit its transport across the cell membrane and subcellular interactions. In this review, we have highlighted some historical details of Vit C and its transporters in the heart with a particular focus on heart failure in cancer chemotherapy.

Glutathione-redox status on hydro alcoholic root bark extract of Premna integrifolia Linn in high fat diet induced atherosclerosis model

BACKGROUND

Premna integrifolia Linn. is a medicinal plant of an Ayurvedic importance and proved to have an anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial and hypo-lipidemic activity. Glutathione (GSH) redox status is an important parameter to assess the antioxidant activity of any neutraceuticals.

OBJECTIVE

In order to assess the anti-oxidant potential of hydro alcoholic extract (HAE) of P. integrifolia, this study was aimed to evaluate the GSH redox status in high fat diet induced experimental atherosclerosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study comprises sixty Wistar rats and they were divided into six groups: the first group served as control, the second group was fed with high fat diet and the third, fourth and fifth groups were fed with high fat diet along with various concentrations of HAE of 200, 400 and 500 g/kg.b.wt respectively and the sixth group was administered high fat diet along with 10 mg/kg b.wt of atorvastatin for 30 days. GSH-dependent enzymes like GSH-peroxidase (GPx), GSH-reductase (GR) and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) were estimated in hemolysate, kidney, heart and liver of experimental rats.

RESULTS

Analysis of GSH levels showed a significant decrease in hemolysate, heart and kidney (p < 0.05) and liver (p < 0.01) in high fat-fed rats when compared to control. Activities of GPx, GR and G6PD in hemolysate and heart (p < 0.001), liver and kidney (p < 0.05) in high fat-fed rats when compared to control. Dose-dependent increase was observed in rats treated with various concentrations of HAE.

CONCLUSION

The HAE of root bark of P. integrifolia is proved to have a protective role on antioxidant defense in high fat diet induced atherosclerosis model. As a whole P. integrifolia increases the GSH content in a dose-dependent manner and in turn altered the redox cycle.

Reactive Oxidative Species-Modulated Ca2+ Release Regulates β2 Integrin Activation on CD4+ CD28null T Cells of Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients

The number and activity of T cell subsets in the atherosclerotic plaques are critical for the prognosis of patients with acute coronary syndrome. β₂ Integrin activation is pivotal for T cell recruitment and correlates with future cardiac events. Despite this knowledge, differential regulation of adhesiveness in T cell subsets has not been explored yet. In this study, we show that in human T cells, SDF-1α-mediated β₂ integrin activation is driven by a, so far, not-described reactive oxidative species (ROS)-regulated calcium influx. Furthermore, we show that CD4⁺CD28^null T cells represent a highly reactive subset showing 25-fold stronger β₂ integrin activation upon SDF-1α stimulation compared with CD28⁺ T cells. Interestingly, ROS-dependent Ca release was much more prevalent in the pathogenetically pivotal CD28^null subset compared with the CD28⁺ T cells, whereas the established mediators of the classical pathways for β₂ integrin activation (PKC, PI3K, and PLC) were similarly activated in both T cell subsets. Thus, interference with the calcium flux attenuates spontaneous adhesion of CD28^null T cells from acute coronary syndrome patients, and calcium ionophores abolished the observed differences in the adhesion properties between CD28⁺ and CD28^null T cells. Likewise, the adhesion of these T cell subsets was indistinguishable in the presence of exogenous ROS/H₂O₂ Together, these data provide a molecular explanation of the role of ROS in pathogenesis of plaque destabilization.

Healthcare Cost Implications of Utilizing a Dietary Intervention to Lower LDL Cholesterol: Proof of Concept Actuarial Analysis and Recommendations

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To determine if subsidizing the cost of a food-based intervention for managing hyperlipidemia could be cost-effective under commercial insurance and/or Medicare coverage scenarios.

RECENT FINDINGS

A large number of patients eligible for pharmaceutical treatment of hyperlipidemia either cannot or will not use lipid lowering drugs, leaving them at increased cardiovascular risk. Lipid levels can be modified by diet, but food has never enjoyed covered benefit status. We evaluated the financial implications of providing insurance coverage for a specifically formulated suite of food products previously documented to yield statistically significant lipid reductions, using multiple product uptake and lipid impact scenarios in both commercially covered and Medicare-covered populations. Even after controlling for multiple confounders, we noted positive payback on subsidizing the cost of lipid-lowering foods under all scenarios. Addressing a root cause of hyperlipidemia by directly encouraging dietary modification provides a cost-effective alternative for cholesterol management, especially for statin intolerant or statin unwilling patients.

Identifying Antioxidant Proteins by Combining Multiple Methods

Antioxidant proteins play important roles in preventing free radical oxidation from damaging cells and DNA. They have become ideal candidates of disease prevention and treatment. Therefore, it is urgent to identify antioxidants from natural compounds. Since experimental methods are still cost ineffective, a series of computational methods have been proposed to identify antioxidant proteins. However, the performance of the current methods are still not satisfactory. In this study, a support vector machine based method, called Vote9, was proposed to identify antioxidants, in which the sequences were encoded by using the features generated from 9 optimal individual models. Results from jackknife test demonstrated that Vote9 is comparable with the best one of the existing predictors for this task. We hope that Vote9 will become a useful tool or at least can play a complementary role to the existing methods for identifying antioxidants.

The Association between Dietary Antioxidant Quality Score and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Iranian Adults: a Cross-Sectional Study

The association between dietary antioxidant quality score (DAQS) and cardiovascular risk factors such as low cardiovascular fitness (CRF) and elevated blood pressure (BP) has rarely been investigated. To investigate the association between DAQS, CRF, and BP. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 270 adult subjects living in Tehran, Iran. Dietary intake was evaluated using a validated food frequency questionnaire. The DAQS was calculated using antioxidant-nutrient intake. Socio-economic status, anthropometric measures, and BP were recorded by a trained interviewer, using standard methods. A significant increase was found in maximal oxygen uptake (p value = 0.01) across tertiles of DAQS. After adjusting for confounders, the association remained unchanged (p value = 0.02). Participants in the highest tertile of DAQS had higher systolic BP (SBP) (p value = 0.01) and diastolic BP (DBP) (p value = 0.03), although adjustment for confounding factors attenuated the results (p value = 0.3 for DBP and p value = 0.6 for SBP). Our results revealed that higher DAQS is associated with better CRF in Iranian adults. Further studies are needed to establish the veracity of our results.

Intake of Alpha-Linolenic Acid-Rich Perilla frutescens Leaf Powder Decreases Home Blood Pressure and Serum Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein in Japanese Adults

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (Ox-LDL) is known to be highly atherogenic. Thus, decreasing the blood levels of Ox-LDL through dietary means is an important approach to reduce cardiovascular events in high-risk individuals. In this randomized placebo-controlled human interventional trial, we aimed to evaluate whether Perilla frutescens leaf powder (PLP) ameliorates Ox-LDL and home blood pressure, along with its biological antioxidant potential. Healthy Japanese volunteers aged 30-60 years (n = 60) were randomized to PLP and placebo groups. The PLP group consumed PLP dried using a microwave under reduced pressure, and the placebo group consumed pectin fiber daily for 6 months. Home blood pressure, serum biochemical parameters, and fatty acid profiles of erythrocyte plasma membranes were analyzed. Plasma Ox-LDL levels significantly decreased in the PLP group but not in the placebo group. Mean changes in the biological antioxidant potential and alpha-linolenic acid levels in the erythrocyte plasma membrane were significantly increased in the PLP group than in the placebo group. In subjects with prehypertension (systolic blood pressure [SBP] ³ 120 mmHg), the mean reduction in morning or nocturnal SBP was significantly greater in the PLP group than in the placebo group. Thus, PLP intake may be an effective intervention to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Study of Anti-oxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Genotoxicity, and Antimicrobial Activities and Analysis of Different Constituents found in Rhizome Essential Oil of Curcuma caesia Roxb., Collected from North East India

BACKGROUND

This investigation was designed to evaluate the chemical composition, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, genotoxicity, and antimicrobial activities of Curcuma caesia Roxb rhizome essential oil.

METHODS

Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectroscopy (GC/MS) analysis was performed to determine the chemical composition, standard antioxidative test DPPH assay, reducing power assay, in vitro antiinflammatory activity (egg albumin denaturation, protease inhibitory assay) by using standard methods. Similarly, antimicrobial activity was tested using the disc diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration ability (MIC); while to test genotoxicity, Allium cepa assay was used.

RESULTS

GC/MS analysis revealed eucalyptol (28.55%), epicurzerenone (19.62%), and camphor (21.73%) as the major components of C. caesia rhizome essential oil. Potent antioxidant (IC50= 48.08±0.003 μg/mL), anti-inflammatory (IC50= 121.7±0.0013 μg/mL), and antimicrobial activities of the essential oil were recorded better than the standard drugs Fluconazole for fungus and Ciprofloxacin for bacteria. The essential oil also possessed a strong antibacterial effect against two tested bacterial strains B. subtilis and B. cereus with 7.5 μg/mL MIC value, while for fungal strains the essential oil was most effective against S. cereviaceae with an MIC value of 2.5 μg/mL. All the data were recorded in triplicates. Allium cepa assay revealed minor genotoxicity with mitotic index, MI= 27.70%; chromosome aberration, A= 1.1% of C. caesia rhizome essential oil.

CONCLUSION

C. caesia rhizome essential oil possesses potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties with negligible genotoxicity. Hence, the present study is highly significant for the utilization of rhizome of C. caesia, a high-value ethnopharmacological plant for advanced R & D and commercial application.

Potential roles of Citrulline and watermelon extract on metabolic and inflammatory variables in diabetes mellitus, current evidence and future directions: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent endocrine disorder worldwide. Citrulline is an α-amino acid, which is abundant in watermelon, and a precursor of arginine and nitric oxide. Decreased bioavailability of nitric oxide is associated with insulin resistance. The present systematic review focused on the existing evidence of citrulline and watermelon extract effects on metabolic and inflammatory parameters in diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

A systematic search of the databases PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, ProQuest and Google Scholar was conducted for relevant papers published from inception until October 2018. All clinical trials, animal and in vitro studies published in the English language that assessed the role of citrulline and watermelon extract on diabetes mellitus, were eligible. Studies providing inadequate information were excluded.

RESULTS

Out of 1262 articles we found, only eight articles met the inclusion criteria for analysis. In three studies an increase in the synthesis of nitric oxide was reported with citrulline and watermelon extract supplementation. Four studies showed a significant reduction in blood glucose after supplementation with watermelon extract, and two studies reported a decrease in a number of inflammatory biomarkers following citrulline supplementation. Although citrulline intake caused a significant reduction in HOMA-IR in one study, inconsistent results were revealed on the effects of citrulline and watermelon extract on insulin levels and lipid profile.

CONCLUSION

Citrulline and watermelon extract could improve nitric oxide synthesis, glycaemic status and inflammation in diabetes mellitus. However, further studies are required to shed light on the underlying mechanisms.

Serum Beta Carotene and Overall and Cause-Specific Mortality

RATIONALE

Although the health effects of beta carotene have been studied extensively, a systematic examination of serum concentrations and long-term mortality, including cardiovascular disease mortality, has not been reported.

OBJECTIVE

Explore whether serum beta carotene is associated with overall and cause-specific mortality and to elucidate the strength and dose-response of the association.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We conducted a prospective serological analysis of 29 103 men in the ATBC study (Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention). During 31 years of follow-up, 23 796 deaths occurred, including deaths because of cardiovascular disease (9869), cancer (7692), respiratory disease (2161), diabetes mellitus (119), injuries and accidents (1255), and other causes (2700). Serum beta carotene was assayed using high-performance liquid chromatography. Adjusting for major risk factors measured, men with higher serum beta carotene had significantly lower all-cause mortality (hazard ratios=0.81, 0.71, 0.69, and 0.64 for quintile 2 (Q2)-Q5 versus Q1, respectively; P_trend<0.0001). Serum beta carotene was significantly associated with risk of death from cardiovascular disease, heart disease, stroke, cancer, respiratory disease, diabetes mellitus, injuries and accidents, and other causes (Q5 versus Q1, hazard ratio=0.21-0.73, all P_trend<0.0001). The all-cause mortality association was not materially impacted by adjustment for fruit and vegetable consumption (albeit, estimated with some measurement error) and was generally similar across subgroups of smoking intensity, alcohol consumption, trial supplementation, and duration of follow-up, but was significantly modified by age, years of smoking, and body mass index, with stronger inverse associations among men who were younger, smoked fewer years, and had a lower body mass index (all P_interaction≤0.0025).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence that higher beta carotene biochemical status is associated with lower overall, cardiovascular disease, heart disease, stroke, cancer, and other causes of mortality. The dose-response associations over a 30-year period were not attenuated by adjustment for other important risk factors and support greater fruit and vegetable consumption as a means to increase beta carotene status and promote longevity.

AOPs-SVM: A Sequence-Based Classifier of Antioxidant Proteins Using a Support Vector Machine

Antioxidant proteins play important roles in countering oxidative damage in organisms. Because it is time-consuming and has a high cost, the accurate identification of antioxidant proteins using biological experiments is a challenging task. For these reasons, we proposed a model using machine-learning algorithms that we named AOPs-SVM, which was developed based on sequence features and a support vector machine. Using a testing dataset, we conducted a jackknife cross-validation test with the proposed AOPs-SVM classifier and obtained 0.68 in sensitivity, 0.985 in specificity, 0.942 in average accuracy, 0.741 in MCC, and 0.832 in AUC. This outperformed existing classifiers. The experiment results demonstrate that the AOPs-SVM is an effective classifier and contributes to the research related to antioxidant proteins. A web server was built at http://server.malab.cn/AOPs-SVM/index.jsp to provide open access.

P66Shc and vascular endothelial function

Dysfunctional endothelium is an early change in vasculature known to be associated with atherosclerosis. Among many regulators of vascular endothelial function, p66Shc has consistently been shown to mediate endothelial dysfunction. Over more than three decades of active research in the field of the physiological function of p66Shc, regulation of vascular endothelial functions has emerged as one of the most robust effects in a broad range of pathological conditions including hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and aging. A significant understanding has been developed with respect to the molecular signaling regulating the oxidative function of p66Shc in endothelial cells and its targets and regulators. In addition, novel regulatory modifications of p66Shc controlling its oxidative function, subcellular distribution, and stability have also been reported. This review will focus on summarizing the molecular signaling regulating the oxidative function of p66Shc and its role in vascular endothelium.

Dyslipidemia Profiles in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review of the literature aims to discuss the evidence linking different lipid and apolipoprotein measures to peripheral artery disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Measures of atherogenic dyslipidemia, including elevations in total cholesterol and total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol as well as low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, are strongly associated with future risk of peripheral artery disease. Compared to coronary artery disease, there are fewer data showing an association between low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and future risk of peripheral artery disease. Novel lipid measures, including nuclear magnetic resonance-derived lipoproteins and oxidized lipids, may lead to better assessments of future peripheral artery disease risk. These data highlight the important differences between lipid risk factors for peripheral and coronary artery disease. Improved understanding of these distinctions may lead to new therapeutic options for patients with peripheral artery disease.

A novel nitroalkene-α-tocopherol analogue inhibits inflammation and ameliorates atherosclerosis in Apo E knockout mice

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Atherosclerosis is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation with concomitant lipid accumulation in the arterial wall. Anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic properties have been described for a novel class of endogenous nitroalkenes (nitrated-unsaturated fatty acids), formed during inflammation and digestion/absorption processes. The lipid-associated antioxidant α-tocopherol is transported systemically by LDL particles including to the atheroma lesions. To capitalize on the overlapping and complementary salutary properties of endogenous nitroalkenes and α-tocopherol, we designed and synthesized a novel nitroalkene-α-tocopherol analogue (NATOH) to address chronic inflammation and atherosclerosis, particularly at the lesion sites.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We synthesized NATOH, determined its electrophilicity and antioxidant capacity and studied its effects over pro-inflammatory and cytoprotective pathways in macrophages in vitro. Moreover, we demonstrated its incorporation into lipoproteins and tissue both in vitro and in vivo, and determined its effect on atherosclerosis and inflammatory responses in vivo using the Apo E knockout mice model.

KEY RESULTS

NATOH exhibited similar antioxidant capacity to α-tocopherol and, due to the presence of the nitroalkenyl group, like endogenous nitroalkenes, it exerted electrophilic reactivity. NATOH was incorporated in vivo into the VLDL/LDL lipoproteins particles to reach the atheroma lesions. Furthermore, oral administration of NATOH down-regulated NF-κB-dependent expression of pro-inflammatory markers (including IL-1β and adhesion molecules) and ameliorated atherosclerosis in Apo E knockout mice.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

In toto, the data demonstrate a novel pharmacological strategy for the prevention of atherosclerosis based on a creative, natural and safe drug delivery system of a non-conventional anti-inflammatory compound (NATOH) with significant potential for clinical application.

Dietary antioxidant intake decreases carotid intima media thickness in women but not in men: A cross-sectional assessment in the Kardiovize study

OBJECTIVE

Atherosclerosis is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease, with a higher burden on men than women during the occupational age. Intake of individual dietary antioxidants is inversely associated with risk of atherosclerosis development. We aimed to understand the relationship between dietary composite antioxidant intake and the carotid intima media thickness (cIMT), which is a proxy of atherosclerosis progression.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

We performed a cross-sectional analysis that included 894 members of the Kardiovize cohort, a random urban sample population. Nutrient intakes were derived by 24-h recall. We constructed a composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI), based on zinc, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and carotenoids. We considered the CDAI as the exposure variable and primary outcomes were the following cardio-metabolic parameters: body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body fat mass (BFM), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, HDL and LDL cholesterol, and cIMT. Associations and interactions between variables were evaluated using linear regression analyses. In women, a 1 mg increase in dietary intake of zinc or vitamin E decreased the cIMT by 3.36 and 1.48 µm, respectively, after adjusting for covariates. Similarly, the cIMT decreased by 4.72 µm for each one-unit increase in CDAI (p = 0.018). Beyond CDAI, age (β = 3.61; SE=0.89; p = 0.001), systolic blood pressure (β = 1.30; SE=0.59; p = 0.029) and triglycerides (β = 22.94; SE=10.09; p = 0.024) were significant predictors of cIMT in women. By contrast, we found no association between CDAI and cIMT in men.

CONCLUSIONS

CDAI negatively associates with cIMT in women. These findings indicate that combined intake of nutrients with anti-oxidant properties might prevent the initiation and progression of arterial lesions in a sex-specific manner.

The Alternative Healthy Eating Index and Physical Function Impairment in Men

OBJECTIVES

Physical function is increasingly recognized as integral to healthy aging, in particular as a core component of mobility and independent living in older adults. Thus, it is important to identify strategies for the prevention of physical function decline.

DESIGN

Longitudinal cohort study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A total of 12,658 men from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study were followed from 2008-2012.

MEASUREMENTS

We examined the association between the Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010 (AHEI), a measure of diet quality combining 11 dietary components (vegetables, fruits, nuts and legumes, red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages and fruit juices, alcohol, whole grains, omega-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, trans fatty acids, sodium), and impairment in physical function, as measured by the SF-36. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of impairment in physical function.

RESULTS

In the multivariable-adjusted model, each 10-point increase in total AHEI score was associated with a 10% lower odds of impairment in physical function (OR=0.90, 95% CI: 0.86,0.95), and in the categorical analysis, men with AHEI scores in the top quintile had a 26% lower odds (OR=0.74, 95% CI:0.63,0.86) compared with men in the bottom quintile. For individual AHEI components, higher intake of vegetables (p-trend=0.01), nuts and legumes (p-trend<0.01), polyunsaturated fatty acids (p-trend<0.01) and lower intake of red and processed meats (p-trend=0.03) and sugar-sweetened beverages (p-trend=0.01) were significantly associated with lower odds of physical impairment. For specific foods, higher consumption of lettuce, broccoli, blueberries, peanuts, walnuts and other nuts were associated with lower odds of impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large cohort of older men, better overall diet quality was significantly associated with a lower odds of impairment in physical function. Given the value of physical function to healthy aging and quality of life, this may represent a particularly compelling public health rationale for older men to improve their diet.

Dietary Intake of Anti-Oxidant Vitamins A, C, and E Is Inversely Associated with Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Chinese-A 22-Years Population-Based Prospective Study

Background: Conflicting and population-dependent findings have been reported from epidemiological studies on the associations of dietary intake of anti-oxidant vitamins with cardiovascular events. We investigated the prospective relationship between dietary intake of anti-oxidant vitamins and incident adverse cardiovascular outcomes amongst Hong Kong Chinese. Methods: In this prospective population-based study, baseline dietary intake of anti-oxidant vitamins (A, C, and E) were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire in 875 Chinese participants from the Hong Kong Cardiovascular Risk Factor Prevalence Study (CRISPS) in 1995–1996. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of incident adverse cardiovascular outcomes, defined as the first recorded diagnosis of cardiovascular deaths, non-fatal myocardial infarction or non-fatal stroke, and coronary or other arterial revascularizations, was calculated per unit intake of each vitamin using multivariable Cox regression. Results: Over a median follow-up of 22 years, 85 participants (9.7%) developed adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Dietary intakes of vitamin A, C, and E were independently and inversely associated with incident adverse cardiovascular outcomes (HR 0.68, 95%CI 0.53–0.88, p = 0.003 for vitamin A; HR 0.66, 95%CI 0.52–0.85, p = 0.001 for vitamin C; and HR 0.57, 95%CI 0.38–0.86, p = 0.017 for vitamin E) after adjustments for conventional cardiovascular risk factors at baseline. Conclusions: Dietary intakes of anti-oxidant vitamins A, C, and E reduced the risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in Hong Kong Chinese.

Association of serum lutein and zeaxanthin with quantitative measures of retinal vascular parameters

To evaluate the association between serum carotenoids and quantitative measures of retinal vasculature in elderly Singapore Chinese subjects. The following details were collected in 128 healthy subjects: sociodemographics, lifestyle information, medical and drug history, and anthropometric measurements. Serum concentrations of carotenoids were estimated in fasting venous blood using high performance liquid chromatography. Retinal vascular parameters were quantitatively measured from retinal photographs using a computer-assisted program (Singapore I Vessel Assessment). The mean age of the population was 54.1 years (range 40 to 81 years). In multiple linear regression analysis, per SD decrease in retinal arteriolar caliber [β = 0.045 (0.003 to 0.086), p = 0.036], per SD increase in retinal venular caliber [β = -0.045 (-0.086 to -0.003), p = 0.036] and per SD increase in arteriolar branching angle [β = -0.039 (-0.072 to -0.006), p = 0.021] were associated with decreased serum lutein. Per SD increase in retinal venular tortuosity [β = -0.0075 (-0.0145 to -0.0004), p = 0.039] and per SD increase in arteriolar branching angle (β = -0.0073 [-0.0142 to -0.0059], p = 0.041) were associated with decreased serum zeaxanthin. None of the other carotenoids demonstrated meaningful relationship with quantitative measures of retinal vasculature. Lower levels of lutein and zeaxanthin demonstrated significant relationship with adverse quantitative measures of retinal vasculature in elderly healthy subjects.

Valorisation of tuna processing waste biomass: isolation, purification and characterisation of four novel antioxidant peptides from tuna by-product hydrolysate

Tuna protein hydrolysate (TPH) was prepared by hydrolysis with Prolyve BS and fractionated by membranes process. The antioxidant activities of recovered peptide fractions were evaluated. Four novel antioxidant peptides that were isolated from nanofiltration retentate exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, using gel chromatography and reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The amino acid sequences of isolated peptides were identified as Tyr-Glu-Asn-Gly-Gly (P2), Glu-Gly-Tyr-Pro-Trp-Asn (P4), Tyr-Ile-Val-Tyr-Pro-Gly (P7) and Trp-Gly-Asp-Ala-Gly-Gly-Tyr-Tyr (P8) with molecular weights of 538.46, 764.75, 710.78 and 887.85 Da, respectively. P2, P4, P7 and P8 exhibited good scavenging activities on hydroxyl radical (IC₅₀ 0.41, 0.327, 0.17 and 0.042 mg/ml), DPPH radical (IC₅₀ 0.666, 0.326, 0.451 and 0.377 mg/ml) and superoxide radical (IC₅₀ 0.536, 0.307, 0.357 and 0.115 mg/ml). P7 was effective against lipid peroxidation in the model system. The isolated peptides might be useful used as natural food additive in food industry and formulation of nutritional products.