Dietary polyphenols for atherosclerosis: A comprehensive review and future perspectives

Naringin: Cardioprotective properties and safety profile in diabetes treatment

Flavonoids derived from plants offer a broad spectrum of therapeutic potential for addressing metabolic syndrome, particularly diabetes mellitus (DM), a prevalent non-communicable disease. Hyperglycemia in DM is a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which substantially impact global mortality rates. This review examines the potential effects of naringin, a citrus flavonoid, on both DM and its associated cardiovascular complications, including conditions like diabetic cardiomyopathy. The safety profile of naringin is summarized based on various pre-clinical studies. The data for this review was gathered from diverse electronic databases, including Medline, PubMed, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Google Scholar, and Emerald Insight. Multiple pre-clinical studies have demonstrated that naringin exerts hypoglycemic and cardioprotective effects by targeting various vascular mechanisms. Specifically, research indicates that naringin down-regulates the renin-angiotensin and oxidative stress systems while concurrently upregulating β-cell and immune system functions. Clinical trial outcomes also support the therapeutic potential of naringin in managing hyperglycemic states and associated cardiovascular issues. Moreover, toxicity studies have confirmed the safety of naringin in animal models, suggesting its potential for safe administration in humans. In conclusion, naringin emerges as a promising natural candidate for both antidiabetic and cardioprotective purposes, offering potential improvements in health outcomes. While naringin presents a new avenue for therapies targeting DM and CVDs, additional controlled and long-term clinical trials are necessary to validate its efficacy and safety for human use.

Flavonoids: Potential therapeutic agents for cardiovascular disease

Flavonoids are found in the roots, stems, leaves, and fruits of many plant taxa. They are related to plant growth and development, pigment formation, and protection against environmental stress. Flavonoids function as antioxidants and exert anti-inflammatory effects in the cardiovascular system by modulating classical inflammatory response pathways, such as the TLR4-NF-ĸB, PI3K-AKT, and Nrf2/HO-1 signalling pathways. There is increasing evidence for the therapeutic effects of flavonoids on hypertension, atherosclerosis, and other diseases. The potential clinical value of flavonoids for diseases of the cardiovascular system has been widely explored. For example, studies have evaluated the roles of flavonoids in the regulation of blood pressure via endothelium-dependent and non-endothelium-dependent pathways and in the regulation of myocardial systolic and diastolic functions by influencing calcium homeostasis and smooth muscle-related protein expression. Flavonoids also have hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, anti-platelet, autophagy, and antibacterial effects. In this paper, the role and mechanism of flavonoids in cardiovascular diseases were reviewed in order to provide reference for the clinical application of flavonoids in the future.

Advances in the Anti-Atherosclerotic Mechanisms of Epigallocatechin Gallate

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a common clinical sickness and the major pathological basis of ischemic cardiocerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs). The pathogenesis of AS involves a variety of risk factors, and there is a lack of effective preventive and curative drugs that can completely treat AS. In recent years, with the improvement of people's living standards and changes in dietary habits, the morbidity and mortality rates of AS are on the rise, and the age of onset tends to be younger. The formation of AS is closely related to a variety of factors, and the main factors include lipid metabolism disorders, endothelial damage, inflammation, unstable plaques, etc. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), as one of the main components of catechins, has a variety of pharmacological effects, and its role in the prevention of AS and the protection of cardiovascular and cerebral blood vessels has been highly valued. Recent epidemiological investigations and various in vivo and ex vivo experiments have shown that EGCG is capable of resisting atherosclerosis and reducing the morbidity and mortality of AS. In this paper, we reviewed the anti-AS effects of EGCG and its mechanisms in recent years, including the regulation of lipid metabolism, regulation of intestinal flora disorders, improvement of vascular endothelial cell functions, inhibition of inflammatory factors expression, regulation of inflammatory signaling pathways, inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression, and inhibition of platelet aggregation, which are helpful for the prevention of cardiocerebrovascular diseases.

Effects of Cocoa Consumption on Cardiometabolic Risk Markers: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the effect of dietary intake of cocoa on anthropometric measurements, lipid and glycemic profiles, and blood pressure levels in adults, with and without comorbidities.

METHODS

The databases used were MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane, LILACS, and SciELO. The eligible studies were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) involving adults undergoing cocoa consumption (cocoa extract or ≥70% cocoa dark chocolate) for ≥4 weeks that evaluated at least one of the following markers: body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist/abdominal circumference, total cholesterol, LDL-c, triglycerides, HDL-c, blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP).

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies were included, totaling 1986 participants. Cocoa consumption showed no effects on body weight, BMI, waist circumference, triglycerides, HDL-c and HbA1c. Yet, there was a reduction in total cholesterol (-8.35 mg/dL, 95% CI -14.01; -2.69 mg/dL), LDL-c (-9.47 mg/dL, 95% CI -13.75; -5.20 mg/dL), fasting blood glucose (-4.91 mg/dL, 95% CI -8.29; -1.52 mg/dL), SBP (-2.52 mmHg, 95% CI -4.17; -0.88 mmHg), and DBP (-1.58 mmHg, 95% CI -2.54; -0.62 mmHg).

CONCLUSIONS

The consumption of cocoa showed protective effects on major cardiometabolic risk markers that have a clinical impact in terms of cardiovascular risk reduction.

PPARs in atherosclerosis: The spatial and temporal features from mechanism to druggable targets

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis is a chronic and complex disease caused by lipid disorder, inflammation, and other factors. It is closely related to cardiovascular diseases, the chief cause of death globally. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are valuable anti-atherosclerosis targets that showcase multiple roles at different pathological stages of atherosclerosis and for cell types at different tissue sites.

AIM OF REVIEW

Considering the spatial and temporal characteristics of the pathological evolution of atherosclerosis, the roles and pharmacological and clinical studies of PPARs were summarized systematically and updated under different pathological stages and in different vascular cells of atherosclerosis. Moreover, selective PPAR modulators and PPAR-pan agonists can exert their synergistic effects meanwhile reducing the side effects, thereby providing novel insight into future drug development for precise spatial-temporal therapeutic strategy of anti-atherosclerosis targeting PPARs.

KEY SCIENTIFIC

Concepts of Review: Based on the spatial and temporal characteristics of atherosclerosis, we have proposed the importance of stage- and cell type-dependent precision therapy. Initially, PPARs improve endothelial cells' dysfunction by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress and then regulate macrophages' lipid metabolism and polarization to improve fatty streak. Finally, PPARs reduce fibrous cap formation by suppressing the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Therefore, research on the cell type-specific mechanisms of PPARs can provide the foundation for space-time drug treatment. Moreover, pharmacological studies have demonstrated that several drugs or compounds can exert their effects by the activation of PPARs. Selective PPAR modulators (that specifically activate gene subsets of PPARs) can exert tissue and cell-specific effects. Furthermore, the dual- or pan-PPAR agonist could perform a better role in balancing efficacy and side effects. Therefore, research on cells/tissue-specific activation of PPARs and PPAR-pan agonists can provide the basis for precision therapy and drug development of PPARs.

Citrus flavonoids and adhesion molecules: Potential role in the management of atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis as a chronic inflammatory disorder is accompanied with oxidative stress which causes a high morbidity and mortality. Adhesion molecules, including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), P-selectin, and E-selectin, are amongst the most important contributors in atherosclerosis. In such cases, dietary interventions with functional foods containing natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituents are of a great interest. Citrus fruits are rich sources of flavonoids as natural pigments with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This study aims to review current evidence regarding the role of citrus flavonoids in the management of atherosclerosis with a focus on their effect on adhesion molecules. Electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched with the names of adhesion molecules and flavonoids from inception until January 2023. The included articles highly support the beneficial effects of citrus flavonoids in preclinical models of atherosclerosis. Quercetin, naringin and naringenin, hesperidin and hesperetin, nobiletin, rutin, luteolin, apigenin, and kaempferol are the most common flavonoids in citrus fruits which could modulate adhesion molecules including ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-selectin, and P-selectin. Additionally, markers of chronic inflammation such as interleukins, tumor necrosis factor-α, nuclear factor-κB, and nitric oxide signaling, as well as oxidative stress markers like superoxide dismutase and glutathione were all normalized upon administration of citrus flavonoids. Conclusively, this review confirms the modulatory role of flavonoids on adhesion molecules in atherosclerosis based on the preclinical evaluations. Thus, citrus fruits can be further studied in atherosclerotic patients regarding their activity in reducing adhesion molecules.

Protocatechuic acid boosts continual efferocytosis in macrophages by derepressing KLF4 to transcriptionally activate MerTK

Macrophages clear apoptotic cells through a process called continual efferocytosis. We found that protocatechuic acid (PCA), a polyphenolic compound abundant in fruits and vegetables, increased the continual efferocytic capacity of macrophages and inhibited the progression of advanced atherosclerosis. PCA reduced the intracellular amounts of microRNA-10b (miR-10b) by promoting its secretion in extracellular vesicles, which led to an increase in the abundance of the miR-10b target Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4). In turn, KLF4 transcriptionally induced the gene encoding Mer proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MerTK), an efferocytic receptor for the recognition of apoptotic cells, resulting in increased continual efferocytic capacity. However, in naive macrophages, the PCA-induced secretion of miR-10b did not affect KLF4 and MerTK protein abundance or efferocytic capacity. In mice, oral administration of PCA increased continual efferocytosis in macrophages residing in the peritoneal cavities, thymi, and advanced atherosclerotic plaques through the miR-10b-KLF4-MerTK pathway. In addition, pharmacological inhibition of miR-10b with antagomiR-10b also increased the efferocytic capacity of efferocytic but not naive macrophages in vitro and in vivo. Together, these data describe a pathway that promotes continual efferocytosis in macrophages through miR-10b secretion and a KLF4-dependent increase in MerTK abundance, which can be activated by dietary PCA and which has implications for understanding the regulation of continual efferocytosis in macrophages.

Glucosinolates and Polyphenols of Colored Cauliflower as Chemical Discriminants Based on Cooking Procedures

The impact of mild oven treatments (steaming or sous-vide) and boiling for 10 min, 25 min, or 40 min on health-promoting phytochemicals in orange and violet cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis) was investigated. For this purpose, targeted ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis of phenolics and glycosylates, combined with chemometrics, was employed. Regardless of cooking time, clear differentiation of cooked samples obtained using different procedures was achieved, thus demonstrating the distinct impact of cooking approaches on sample phytochemical profile (both, compound distribution and content). The main responsible components for the observed discrimination were derivatives of hydroxycinnamic acid and kaempferol, organic acids, indolic, and aromatic glucosinolates, with glucosativin that was found, for the first time, as a discriminant chemical descriptor in colored cauliflower submitted to steaming and sous-vide. The obtained findings also highlighted a strict relationship between the impact of the cooking technique used and the type of cauliflower. The boiling process significantly affected the phytochemicals in violet cauliflower whereas orange cauliflower boiled samples were grouped between raw and either steamed or sous-vide-cooked samples. Finally, the results confirm that the proposed methodology is capable of discriminating cauliflower samples based on their phytochemical profiles and identifying the cooking procedure able to preserve bioactive constituents.

Mechanism-based targeting of cardiac arrhythmias by phytochemicals and medicinal herbs: A comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical evidence

Cardiac arrhythmias, characterized by an irregular heartbeat, are associated with high mortality and morbidity. Because of the narrow therapeutic window of antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs), the management of arrhythmia is still challenging. Therefore, searching for new safe, and effective therapeutic options is unavoidable. In this study, the antiarrhythmic effects of medicinal plants and their active constituents were systematically reviewed to introduce some possible candidates for mechanism-based targeting of cardiac arrhythmias. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library were searched from inception to June 2021 to find the plant extracts, phytochemicals, and multi-component herbal preparations with antiarrhythmic activities. From 7337 identified results, 57 original studies consisting of 49 preclinical and eight clinical studies were finally included. Three plant extracts, eight multi-component herbal preparations, and 26 phytochemicals were found to have antiarrhythmic effects mostly mediated by affecting K+ channels, followed by modulating Ca2+ channels, upstream target pathways, Nav channels, gap junction channels, and autonomic receptors. The most investigated medicinal plants were Rhodiola crenulata and Vitis vinifera. Resveratrol, Oxymatrine, and Curcumin were the most studied phytochemicals found to have multiple mechanisms of antiarrhythmic action. This review emphasized the importance of research on the cardioprotective effect of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds to guide the future development of new AADs. The most prevalent limitation of the studies was their unqualified methodology. Thus, future well-designed experimental and clinical studies are necessary to provide more reliable evidence.

Effects of Personalized Nursing plus Dietary Nursing Management on LP-PLA2, Hcy Levels, and Quality of Life in Elderly Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome

Objective

To explore the effect of individual nursing combined with dietary management on blood glucose levels and quality of life in elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome with diabetes.

Method

This study included 68 elderly patients who underwent acute coronary syndrome at Department of Emergency in our hospital from January 2018 to January 2020. And they were assigned to a control group (n = 34) treated with individual nursing and a research group (n = 34) treated with individual nursing and dietary management according to the random number table. A comparison of the changes in blood glucose levels, anxiety and depression, quality of life, and nursing satisfaction was made between groups before and after nursing.

Result

Before nursing, the differences in blood glucose levels, SAS scores, and SDS scores between groups were not considered statistically significant (P > 0.05). After nursing, the blood glucose levels, SAS, and SDS levels of patients in both groups significantly decreased, and the research group presented a higher decrease when compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The short form health survey (SF-36) showed that the research group had higher scores in physical function (PF), general health (GH), vitality (VT), mental health (MH), social function (SF), role-physical (RP), bodily pain (BP), and role-emotional (RE) compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The satisfaction survey presented that the research group had a significantly higher total score than the control group [(91.40 ± 5.23) vs. (86.61 ± 7.14), P < 0.05].

Conclusion

The combination of individual nursing and dietary management not only effectively reduces glycosylated hemoglobin levels and anxiety and depression but also wins better nursing satisfaction in the treatment of acute coronary syndrome in elderly patients. Moreover, their quality of life has been significantly improved after discharge.

Polyphenols as Plant-Based Nutraceuticals: Health Effects, Encapsulation, Nano-Delivery, and Application

Plant polyphenols have attracted considerable attention because of their key roles in preventing many diseases, including high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and cancer. A variety of functional foods have been designed and developed with plant polyphenols as the main active ingredients. Polyphenols mainly come from vegetables and fruits and can generally be divided according to their structure into flavonoids, astragalus, phenolic acids, and lignans. Polyphenols are a group of plant-derived functional food ingredients with different molecular structures and various biological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. However, many polyphenolic compounds have low oral bioavailability, which limits the application of polyphenols in nutraceuticals. Fortunately, green bio-based nanocarriers are well suited for encapsulating, protecting, and delivering polyphenols, thereby improving their bioavailability. In this paper, the health benefits of plant polyphenols in the prevention of various diseases are summarized, with a review of the research progress into bio-based nanocarriers for the improvement of the oral bioavailability of polyphenols. Polyphenols have great potential for application as key formulations in health and nutrition products. In the future, the development of food-grade delivery carriers for the encapsulation and delivery of polyphenolic compounds could well solve the limitations of poor water solubility and low bioavailability of polyphenols for practical applications.

Analysis of Major Polyphenolic Compounds of Cydonia oblonga Miller (Quince) Fruit Extract by UPLC-MS/MS and Its Effect on Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Cells

Cydonia oblonga miller (quince) plant serves as a potential folk medicine for treating hypertension and cardiovascular diseases in China. However, to the best of our knowledge, no study has been conducted on the polyphenolic profile and anti-adipogenic effect of quince fruit grown in China. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the quince fruit extract’s major phenolic compounds, evaluate their antioxidant activity, and examine their effect on adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells. A rapid and sensitive analytical method was established for the simultaneous determination of major polyphenolic compounds by using ultra-pressure liquid chromatography coupled with a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS). Among the 10 compounds, the cryptochlorgenic acid was noticed as the most abundant compound of both purified (242.44 ± 0.73 µg/mg dw) and unpurified extract (3.37 ± 0.01 µg/mg dw) followed by quercetin 3-rutinoside and chlorogenic acid. Alternatively, both extracts possessed a high quantity of phenolic acids (purified extract = 483.10 ± 5.16 µg/mg dw and unpurified extract = 7.89 ± 0.02 µg/mg dw). The purified extract exhibited a strong antioxidant capacity (DPPH: EC50 = 3.316 µg/mL, ABTS: EC50 = 36.38 µg/mL) as compared to the unpurified extract. Additionally, our results also showed that the extract at 100 µg/mL significantly suppressed the preadipocyte differentiation and decreased the lipid droplets up to 69% in mature adipocytes. The present study highlights an accurate and fast detection method for quince fruit extract polyphenolic compounds with its antioxidant and antiadipogenic effects. The study also provides the necessary information for the rational development and utilization of quince fruit extract as a source of phytochemicals.

Oral Supplement Containing Hydroxytyrosol and Punicalagin Improves Dyslipidemia in an Adult Population without Co-Adjuvant Treatment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled and Crossover Trial

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) and punicalagin (PC) exert cardioprotective and antiatherosclerotic effects. This study evaluated the effect of an oral supplement containing HT and PC (SAx) on dyslipidemia in an adult population. A randomized, double-blind, controlled, crossover trial was conducted over a 20-week period. SAx significantly reduced the plasma levels of triglycerides (TG) in subjects with hypertriglyceridemia (≥150 mg/dL) (from 200.67 ± 51.38 to 155.33 ± 42.44 mg/dL; p < 0.05), while no such effects were observed in these subjects after the placebo. SAx also significantly decreased the plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in subjects with high plasma levels of LDL-C (≥160 mg/dL) (from 179.13 ± 16.18 to 162.93 ± 27.05 mg/dL; p < 0.01), while no such positive effect was observed with the placebo. In addition, the placebo significantly reduced the plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in the total population (from 64.49 ± 12.65 to 62.55 ± 11.57 mg/dL; p < 0.05), while SAx significantly increased the plasma levels of HDL-C in subjects with low plasma levels of HDL-C (<50 mg/dL) (from 44.25 ± 3.99 to 48.00 ± 7.27 mg/dL; p < 0.05). In conclusion, the supplement containing HT and PC exerted antiatherosclerotic and cardio-protective effects by considerably improving dyslipidemia in an adult population, without co-adjuvant treatment or adverse effects.

The Role of Gut Microbiota in the Immunopathology of Atherosclerosis: focus on immune cells

Gut microbiota (GM) play important roles in multiple organ function, homeostasis and several diseases. More recently, increasing evidences have suggested that the compositional and functional alterations of GM play a crucial role in the accumulation of foam cells and the formation of atherosclerotic plaque in atherosclerosis. In particular, the effects of bacterial components and metabolites on innate and adaptive immune cells have been explored as the underlying mechanisms. Understanding the effects of GM and metabolites on immunoregulation are important for clinical therapy for atherosclerosis. Herein, we summarize the potential role of the GM (such as bacterial components lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan) and GM-derived metabolites (such as short-chain fatty acids, trimethylamine N-oxide and bile acids) in the immunopathology of atherosclerosis. Based on that, we further discuss the anti-atherosclerotic effects of GM-directed dietary bioactive factors such as dietary fibers, dietary polyphenols and probiotics. Because of drug-induced adverse events in anti-inflammatory therapies, personalized dietary interventions would be potential therapies for atherosclerosis, and the interactions between GM-derived products and immune cells should be studied further.

Effects of medical plants from Zingiberaceae family on cardiovascular risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

We performed a meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the efficacy of Zingiberaceae on cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and Scopus were searched systematically until October 18, 2021. Thirty-four RCTs with 2154 patients met our inclusion. Pooled analysis indicated that Zingiberaceae can significantly improve body weight (BW) (WMD = -1.012, 95% CI: -1.673, -0.351, p = .003), fasting blood glucose (FBG) (WMD = -14.292, 95% CI: -18.588, -9.995, p < .001), glycosylated hemoglobin 1c (HbA1c) (WMD = -0.432, 95% CI: -0.607, -0.257, p < .001), serum insulin (WMD = -2.036, 95% CI: -2.857, -1.216, p < .001), homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (WMD = -0.886, 95% CI: -1.375, -0.398, p < .001), high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) (WMD = 0.850, 95% CI: 0.018, 1.682, p = .045), triglyceride (TG) (WMD = -17.636, 95% CI: -27.121, -8.151, p < .001), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD = -0.642, 95% CI: -1.148, -0.137, p = .013), C-reactive protein (CRP) (WMD = -0.623, 95% CI: -1.061, -0.186, p = .005), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (WMD = -3.020, 95% CI: -4.327, -1.712, p < .001), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) (WMD = -1.147, 95% CI: -1.887, -0.406, p = .002). The supplementation of Zingiberaceae may be an effective adjunctive therapy in management of T2DM and prevention cardiovascular complications by decreasing BW, improving blood glucose control, insulin resistance, lipid profiles (HDL-C and TG), blood pressure (DBP), and reducing inflammation (CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6). PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Approximately half of the deaths of individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) are attributable to cardiovascular disease (CVD), and individuals with T2DM have a two-fold increased risk of cardiovascular mortality than healthy individuals. Currently, T2DM is mainly treated with hypoglycemic medication such as sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, meglitinides, and biguanides. Nevertheless, most of them with long-term usage could cause side effects, including hypoglycemia and gastrointestinal troubles. Several species of the Zingiberaceae family are used in traditional herbal medicines, which have been widely used in traditional and complementary medicine. Proving the potential benefits of Zingiberaceae on T2DM and its cardiovascular complications has positive clinical implications for the use of this practical herb.

Macrophage polarization by potential nutraceutical compounds: A strategic approach to counteract inflammation in atherosclerosis

Chronic inflammation represents a main event in the onset and progression of atherosclerosis and is closely associated with oxidative stress in a sort of vicious circle that amplifies and sustains all stages of the disease. Key players of atherosclerosis are monocytes/macrophages. According to their pro- or anti-inflammatory phenotype and biological functions, lesional macrophages can release various mediators and enzymes, which in turn contribute to plaque progression and destabilization or, alternatively, lead to its resolution. Among the factors connected to atherosclerotic disease, lipid species carried by low density lipoproteins and pro-oxidant stimuli strongly promote inflammatory events in the vasculature, also by modulating the macrophage phenotyping. Therapies specifically aimed to balance macrophage inflammatory state are increasingly considered as powerful tools to counteract plaque formation and destabilization. In this connection, several molecules of natural origin have been recognized to be active mediators of diverse metabolic and signaling pathways regulating lipid homeostasis, redox state, and inflammation; they are, thus, considered as promising candidates to modulate macrophage responsiveness to pro-atherogenic stimuli. The current knowledge of the capability of nutraceuticals to target macrophage polarization and to counteract atherosclerotic lesion progression, based mainly on in vitro investigation, is summarized in the present review.

Neuroprotective and anxiolytic potential of green rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) polyphenolic extract

South African rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) tea is globally consumed for its health benefits and caffeine free nature, but no information is available on the neuroprotective capacity of (unfermented) green rooibos. Our aim was to investigate the cytoprotective activity of green rooibos in neuronal cells, including probing antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory properties that could explain observed effects in these cells. We also investigated the anxiolytic potential of green rooibos using zebrafish larval models. Green rooibos extract (Green oxithin™) was assessed for its neuroprotective potential in Neuro-2a cells treated with different concentrations of the extract (12.5-25-50-100 μg mL^-1) and different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (250 or 125 μM) as oxidizing agent. Cell viability (MTT) and redox status (intracellular ROS) were also quantified in these cells. Antioxidant properties of the extract were quantified using cell-free systems (DPPH, ORAC and xanthine/xanthine oxidase), and potential neuroprotection evaluated in terms of its potential to inhibit key enzymes of the CNS (monoamine oxidase A (MOA-A), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and tyrosinase (TYR)). Results demonstrated that green rooibos extract exerted significant cytoprotective properties in Neuro-2a cells, particularly when exposed to lethal 250 μM hydrogen peroxide, increasing cell survival by more than 100%. This may be ascribed (at least partially) to its capacity to limit intracellular ROS accumulation in these cells. Data from cell-free systems confirmed that green rooibos was able to scavenge free radicals (synthetic and physiological) in a dose dependent manner with a similar profile activity to vitamins C and E. Green rooibos also acted as a moderate MAO-A inhibitor, but had no significant effect on AChE or TYR. Finally, zebrafish larvae treated with lower doses of green rooibos demonstrated a significant anxiolytic effect in the light-dark anxiety model. Using the PTZ excitotoxicity model, green rooibos was shown to rescue GABA receptor signalling, which together with its demonstrated inhibition of MAO-A, may account for the anxiolytic outcome. Current data confirms that green rooibos could be considered a "functional brain food" and may be a good option as starting ingredient in the development of new nutraceuticals.

Effect of oilseed roasting on the quality, flavor and safety of oil: A comprehensive review

Roasting is widely applied in oil processing and employs high temperatures (90-260 °C) to heat oilseeds evenly. Roasting improves the extraction yield of oil by the generation of pores in the oilseed cell walls, which facilitates the movement of oil from oilseed during subsequent extraction. It also affects the nutritional value and palatability of the prepared oil, which has attracted consumers' attention. An appropriate roasting process contributes to better extraction of bioactive compounds, particularly increasing the total polyphenol content in the oil. Correspondingly, extracted oil exhibits higher antioxidant capacity and oxidative stability after roasting the oilseeds due to better extraction of endogenous antioxidants and the generation of Maillard reaction products. Furthermore, roasting process is critical for the formation of aroma-active volatiles and the improvement of desired sensory characteristics, so it is indispensable for the production of fragrant oil. However, some harmful components are inevitably generated during roasting, including oxidation products, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and acrylamide. Monitoring and controlling the concentrations of harmful compounds in the oil during the roasting process is important. Therefore, this review updates how roasting affect the quality and safety of oils and provides useful insight into regulation of the roasting process based on bioactive compounds, sensory characteristics, and safety of oils. Further research is required to assess the nutritional value and safety of roasted oils in vivo and to develop a customized roasting process for various oilseeds to produce good-quality oils.

Theaflavin-3,3'-digallate attenuates cigarette smoke extract-induced pulmonary emphysema in mice by suppressing necroptosis

Pulmonary emphysema is one of the most important pathological manifestations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and is commonly associated with cigarette smoking. Previous studies have indicated that necroptosis, a novel non-apoptotic cell death mechanism associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, may contribute to the development of pulmonary emphysema. Theaflavin-3,3'-digallate (TF-3), one of the theaflavins present in black tea, is known to possess several bioactive properties. In the present study, it was demonstrated that TF-3 significantly reduced the generation of reactive oxygen species and the mRNA expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in CSE-treated human normal lung epithelial BEAS-2B cells. To further explore the role of TF-3 in necroptosis, the necroptotic rates of BEAS-2B cells were examined via flow cytometry and immunofluorescence assays. The results demonstrated that TF-3 may suppress necroptosis in CSE-treated BEAS-2B cells. Furthermore, it was determined that TF-3 significantly inhibited the CSE-induced phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase three (RIPK3) and mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) in BEAS-2B cells. Another experiment demonstrated that a pharmacological inhibitor of the p38 MAPK pathway, SB203580, significantly reduced the protein expression levels of phosphorylated (p)-RIPK3 and phosphorylated (p-)MLKL, which indicated that TF-3 suppressed necroptosis via the p38 MAPK/RIPK3/MLKL signaling pathways. In vivo, it was observed that TF-3 treatment significantly attenuated morphological lung injury in mice with CSE-induced emphysema. Moreover, TF-3 significantly reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-α and IL-1β and significantly enhanced the antioxidant capacity of the lung tissues in mice with emphysema. TF-3 also significantly inhibited the levels of p-RIPK3 and p-MLKL in the lungs of mice with emphysema. Therefore, the present study indicated that TF-3 may attenuate CSE-induced emphysema in mice by inhibiting necroptosis.

Bioactive Foods and Medicinal Plants for Cardiovascular Complications of Type II Diabetes: Current Clinical Evidence and Future Perspectives

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the main cause of mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, not all patients are fully satisfied with the current available treatments. Medicinal plants have been globally investigated regarding their effect in CVD, yet the field is far from getting exhausted. The current paper aims to provide an evidence-based review on the clinically evaluated medicinal plants and their main therapeutic targets for the management of CVD in T2DM. Electronic databases including PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from 2000 until November 2019, and related clinical studies were included. Lipid metabolism, glycemic status, systemic inflammation, blood pressure, endothelial function, oxidative stress, and anthropometric parameters are the key points regulated by medicinal plants in T2DM. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are the two most important mechanisms since inflammation and oxidative stress are the first steps triggering a domino of molecular pathological pathways leading to T2DM and, subsequently, CVD. Polyphenols with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, essential oil-derived compounds with vasorelaxant properties, and fibers with demonstrated effects on obesity are the main categories of phytochemicals beneficial for CVD of T2DM. Some medicinal plants such as garlic (Allium sativum) and milk thistle (Silybum marianum) have strong evidences regarding their beneficial effects; however, others have low level of evidence which reveals the need for further clinical studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods to confirm the safety and efficacy of medicinal plants for the management of CVD in T2DM.

Targeting dyslipidemia by herbal medicines: A systematic review of meta-analyses

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The worldwide increasing prevalence of dyslipidemia has become a global health concern. Various herbal remedies have been claimed to be effective for the treatment of dyslipidemia in traditional and folkloric medicine of different regions clinical trials have been conducted to investigate their efficacy. The aim of the current systematic review is to critically assess the meta-analyses of controlled trials (CT) evaluated herb medicines for dyslipidemia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant studies from Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist until January 2021 have been searched. All meta-analyses which pooled studies on the effect of herbal medicines on lipid profile including total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low- or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, HDL-C) were also included. Meta-analyses of in vitro, animal or observational studies were excluded.

RESULTS

The overall of 141 meta-analyses were revealed. Vegetable oils, phytosterols, tea, soy protein, nuts, and curcumin have been studied frequently among the herbal medicines. Among 13 meta-analyses on vegetable oils, the greater reduce of TC (18.95 mg/dl), LDL-C (16.24 mg/dl) and TG (13.69 mg/dl) were exhibited from sunflower oil. Furthermore, rice bran oil (6.65 mg/dl) increased HDL-C significantly. Phytosterols in 12 meta-analyses demonstrated significant improvements in reducing TC, LDL-C and TG as 16.4, 23.7, and 8.85 mg/dl, respectively, and rise in HDL-C as 10.6 mg/dl. The highest reduction in serum level of TC, LDL-C and TG was reported while intake Green tea; 27.57, 24.75, and 31.87 mg/dl, accordingly within 9 meta-analyses. Average improvement of lipid profiles by 6 meta-analyses on plant proteins were 23.2, 21.7, 15.06, and 1.55 mg/dl for TC, LDL-C, TG, and HDL-C, respectively. Among 11 meta-analyses on nuts, almond showed better and significant alleviations in TC (10.69 mg/dl), walnut in LDL-C (9.23 mg/dl), pistachio in TG (22.14 mg/dl), and peanut in HDL-C (2.72 mg/dl). Overall, Curcumin, Curcuminoid, and Turmeric have resulted in the reduction of TC (25.13 mg/dl), LDL-C (39.83 mg/dl), TG (33.65 mg/dl), and an increase in the HDL-C (4.31 mg/dl).

CONCLUSION

The current systematic review shed light on the use of herbal medicines for the management of dyslipidemia. However, more well-conducted CTs are required to determine effective doses of herbal medicines.

The Cardiovascular Benefits of Caffeinated Beverages: Real or Surreal? /"Metron Ariston - All in Moderation"

Caffeinated beverages are the most widely consumed beverages globally with coffee and tea as the two most prominent sources of caffeine. Caffeine content varies across different types of beverages. In addition to caffeine, coffee and tea have other biologically active compounds, and all may affect general and cardiovascular (CV) health. Moderate caffeine consumption (<300-400 mg/day), regardless of the source, is considered safe by both European and US Health Authorities, as it is not associated with adverse health and CV effects, while it may confer certain health benefits. There is a nonlinear association between coffee ingestion and CV risk; moderate coffee drinking is inversely significantly associated with CV risk, with the highest benefit at 2-4 cups per day, while heavy coffee drinking might confer increased risk. With regards to tea, due to a lower caffeine content per serving, its consumption is only limited by the total caffeine daily intake. Both these caffeinated beverages, coffee and tea, have additional phenolic compounds, with anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which confer cardioprotective benefits. Of the several coffee compounds, chloroacetic acids and melanoidins offer such beneficial effects, while diterpenes may have unfavorable effects on lipids. Most of the tea ingredients (polyphenols) are cardioprotective. A major concern relates to energy drinks with their much higher caffeine content which puts individuals, especially adolescents and young adults, at high health and CV risk. All these issues are herein discussed, including pertinent studies and meta-analyses, pathogenetic mechanisms involved and relevant recommendations from health authorities.

Natural Phytochemicals Derived from Gymnosperms in the Prevention and Treatment of Cancers

The incidence of various types of cancer is increasing globally. To reduce the critical side effects of cancer chemotherapy, naturally derived compounds have been considered for cancer treatment. Gymnosperms are a group of plants found worldwide that have traditionally been used for therapeutic applications. Paclitaxel is a commercially available anticancer drug derived from gymnosperms. Other natural compounds with anticancer activities, such as pinostrobin and pinocembrin, are extracted from pine heartwood, and pycnogenol and enzogenol from pine bark. Gymnosperms have great potential for further study for the discovery of new anticancer compounds. This review aims to provide a rational understanding and the latest developments in potential anticancer compounds derived from gymnosperms.

Effects of grape products on inflammation and oxidative stress: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted to determine the effects of grapes and grape products on inflammation and oxidative stress among adults. PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched up to July 2020 to identify RCTs investigating the effects of grape and grape products on inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Weighted mean differences (WMD) were pooled using a random-effects model. Of the 8,962 identified studies, 24 RCTs (27 arms) were included in the statistical analysis. Grape products significantly reduced serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (WMD: -0.35 mg/L; 95% CI: -0.62, -0.09, p = .008), but they had no significant effect on serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (WMD = -1.08 pg/ml; 95% CI: -2.29, 0.11, p = .07), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (WMD = 0.13 pg/ml; 95% CI: -0.35, 0.60, p = .60), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (WMD = 0.15; 95% CI: -0.35, 0.65, p = .54), or malondialdehyde (MDA) (WMD = 0.14; 95% CI: -0.64, 0.92, p = .72). The analysis indicated possible decreasing effects of grapes and grape products on CRP, but they might not be able to change IL-6, TNF-α, TAC, and MDA concentrations. Nonetheless, further studies are warranted before definitive conclusions may be reached.

Mangiferin Inhibits Apoptosis in Doxorubicin-Induced Vascular Endothelial Cells via the Nrf2 Signaling Pathway

Doxorubicin increases endothelial permeability, hence increasing cardiomyocytes’ exposure to doxorubicin (DOX) and exposing myocytes to more immediate damage. Reactive oxygen species are major effector molecules of doxorubicin’s activity. Mangiferin (MGN) is a xanthone derivative that consists of C-glucosylxanthone with additional antioxidant properties. This particular study assessed the effects of MGN on DOX-induced cytotoxicity in human umbilical vein endothelial cells’ (HUVECs’) signaling networks. Mechanistically, MGN dramatically elevated Nrf2 expression at both the messenger RNA and protein levels through the upregulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, leading to an increase in Nrf2-downstream genes. Cell apoptosis was assessed with a caspase-3 activity assay, transferase-mediated dUTP-fluorescein nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining was performed to assess DNA fragmentation, and protein expression was determined by Western blot analysis. DOX markedly increased the generation of reactive oxygen species, PARP, caspase-3, and TUNEL-positive cell numbers, but reduced the expression of Bcl-2 and antioxidants’ intracellular concentrations. These were effectively antagonized with MGN (20 μM), which led to HUVECs being protected against DOX-induced apoptosis, partly through the PI3K/AKT-mediated NRF2/HO-1 signaling pathway, which could theoretically protect the vessels from severe DOX toxicity.

Metal alginates for polyphenol delivery systems: Studies on crosslinking ions and easy-to-use patches for release of protective flavonoids in skin

Incorporation of bioactive natural compounds like polyphenols is an attractive approach for enhanced functionalities of biomaterials. In particular flavonoids have important pharmacological activities, and controlled release systems may be instrumental to realize the full potential of these phytochemicals. Alginate presents interesting attributes for dermal and other biomaterial applications, and studies were carried here to support the development of polyphenol-loaded alginate systems. Studies of capillary viscosity indicated that ionic medium is an effective strategy to modulate the polyelectrolyte effect and viscosity properties of alginates. On gelation, considerable differences were observed between alginate gels produced with Ca2+, Ba2+, Cu2+, Fe2+, Fe3+ and Zn2+ as crosslinkers, especially concerning shrinkage and morphological regularity. Stability assays with different polyphenols in the presence of alginate-gelling cations pointed to the choice of calcium, barium and zinc as safer crosslinkers. Alginate-based films loaded with epicatechin were prepared and the kinetics of release of the flavonoid investigated. The results with calcium, barium and zinc alginate matrices indicated that the release dynamics is dependent on film thicknesses, but also on the crosslinking metal used. On these grounds, an alginate-based system of convenient use was devised, so that flavonoids can be easily loaded at simple point-of-care conditions before dermal application. This epicatechin-loaded patch was tested on an ex-vivo skin model and demonstrated capacity to deliver therapeutically relevant concentrations on skin surface. Moreover, the flavonoid released was not modified and retained full antioxidant bioactivity. The alginate-based system proposed offers a multifunctional approach for flavonoid controllable delivery and protection of skin injured or under risk.

Protocatechuic Acid Inhibits Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Lesion Progression in Older Apoe-/- Mice

BACKGROUND

Normalization of arterial inflammation inhibits atherosclerosis. The preventive role for protocatechuic acid (PCA) in early-stage atherosclerosis is well recognized; however, its therapeutic role in late-stage atherosclerosis remains unexplored.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether PCA inhibits vulnerable atherosclerosis progression by normalizing arterial inflammation.

METHODS

Thirty-wk-old male apolipoprotein E-deficient (Apoe-/-) mice with vulnerable atherosclerotic lesions in the brachiocephalic artery were fed the AIN-93G diet alone (control) or supplemented with 0.003% PCA (wt:wt) for 20 wk. Lesion size and composition, IL-1β, and NF-κB in the brachiocephalic arteries, and serum lipid profiles, oxidative status, and proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-1β, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and serum amyloid A) were measured. Moreover, the effect of PCA on the inflammation response was evaluated in efferocytic macrophages from C57BL/6J mice.

RESULTS

Compared with the control treatment, dietary PCA supplementation significantly reduced lesion size (27.5%; P < 0.05) and also improved lesion stability (P < 0.05) as evidenced by increased thin fibrous cap thickness (31.7%) and collagen accumulation (58.3%), reduced necrotic core size (37.6%) and cellular apoptosis (73.9%), reduced macrophage accumulation (45.1%), and increased vascular smooth muscle cell accumulation (51.5%). Moreover, PCA supplementation inhibited IL-1β expression (53.7%) and NF-κB activation (64.4%) in lesions. However, PCA supplementation did not change serum lipid profiles, total antioxidant capacity, and inflammatory cytokines. In efferocytic macrophages, PCA at 0.5 and 1 μmol/L inhibited Il1b/IL-1β mRNA (27.2-46.5%) and protein (29.2-49.6%) expression and NF-κB activation (67.0-80.3%) by upregulation of MER proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MERTK) and inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinase 3/1 (MAPK3/1). Strikingly, the similar pattern of the MERTK and MAPK3/1 changes in lesional macrophages of mice after PCA intervention in vivo was recapitulated.

CONCLUSION

PCA inhibits vulnerable lesion progression in mice, which might partially be caused by normalization of arterial inflammation by upregulation of MERTK and inhibition of MAPK3/1 in lesional macrophages.

Phellinus gilvus‑derived protocatechualdehyde induces G0/G1 phase arrest and apoptosis in murine B16‑F10 cells

Protocatechualdehyde (PCA) is considered to be the main phenolic component of Phellinus gilvus responsible for its anticancer properties. Previous studies have demonstrated that PCA can have an anticancer effect on multiple cancer types, but little is known about the effect of PCA on melanoma cells. The present study investigated the inhibitory abilities and potential anticancer mechanisms of PCA on B16-F10 cells using MTT assay. Cell apoptosis and cell cycle were assessed by flow cytometry using Annexin V-FITC and propidium iodide staining. Whole-transcriptome analysis was used to investigate the effects of PCA on gene expression. PCA significantly decreased cell viability, induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and promoted apoptosis of B16-F10 cells, suggesting that PCA could have anticancer effects against melanoma cells. Whole-transcriptome analysis indicated that PCA treatment upregulated genes involved in histone modification and decreased the transcription of genes involved in DNA repair and replication. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that PCA treatment enhanced the complement and coagulation cascades, and the p53 signaling pathway. The present results indicated that PCA could act as an antitumor agent in melanoma cells, which may provide experimental support for the development of novel therapies to treat melanoma.

Deciphering the Riddles in Nutrition and Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the leading global cause of death in Western countries, and its development is largely associated with unhealthy dietary patterns. A large body of scientific evidence has reported that nutrition might be the most preventive factor of cardiovascular disease death and could even reverse heart disease. Processes of chronic inflammation and oxidative distress share triggers that are modifiable by nutrition. This review aimed to identify potential targets (food patterns, single foods or individual nutrients) for cardiovascular disease prevention, and analyse the mechanisms implicated in their cardioprotective effects.

Ellagic acid reduces methotrexate-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction via up-regulating Nrf2 expression and inhibiting the IĸBα/NFĸB in rats

BACKGROUND

The clinical application of methotrexate (MTX), an efficacious cytotoxic drug, is restricted due to its associated liver toxicity. Ellagic acid (EA), a natural polyphenol, possesses hepatoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

OBJECTIVES

The present study seeks to address the hepatoprotective effects of Ellagic acid (EA) against MTX-mediated oxidative stress (OS) and widen our current knowledge of the underlying molecular mechanisms of MTX toxicity.

METHODS

Wistar rats were orally given EA (5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) for 10 successive days and at the end of the third day they were administered a single dose of MTX (20 mg/kg i.p).

RESULTS

After performing biochemical analysis, liver enzymes and malondialdehyde were significantly higher in the MTX group, indicating hepatic oxidative damage. MTX-induced OS was further confirmed with observation of events such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction, mitochondrial outer membrane potential decrease, mitochondrial swelling, cytochrome c release and caspase-3/9 increase, resulting in apoptosis. Furthermore, overexpression of pro-inflammatory factors such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-ĸB) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) indicated the MTX-induced inflammation in MTX-treated group. Interestingly, EA was able to significantly prevent OS, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis and inflammation induced by MTX. Also, EA-treated rats demonstrated significant upregulation of both nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and hemoxygenase-1 (HO-1), which were considerably downregulated in MTX-treated rats.

CONCLUSIONS

EA protects rats against MTX-induced apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction via up-Regulating Nrf2 and HO-1 expression and inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. Therefore, EA may protect patients against MTX-induced hepatotoxicity and encourage its clinical application. Graphical abstract Beneficial effect of Ellagic acid (EA) on Methotrexate (MTX)-induced liver injury: molecular mechanism.

Dietary non-nutrients in the prevention of non-communicable diseases: Potentially related mechanisms

Among the 10 leading causes of death in developed countries are chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The effect of these multifactorial diseases on public health has stimulated considerable research aimed at investigating their primary risk factors (genetic factors, stress, food intake, and amount of physical exercise). Thus, healthful foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables, oils, grains, and seeds) are sources of bioactive compounds that promote good health and disease prevention. Among their components are non-caloric substances identified as non-nutrients (polyphenols, phytosterols, saponins, and phytates), which have been found to have a role in modulating metabolic pathways, maintaining health, and preventing NCDs. The aim of this study is to demonstrate and review the performance of some non-nutrients, such as their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, modulation of the antiatherogenic lipid profile (higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, lower oxidized low-density lipoprotein, and triacylglycerols), reduction of glucose and fat intestinal absorption, increase in insulin sensitivity, and stimulation of nitic oxide synthesis.

Nutrition and Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in Western countries, representing almost 30% of all deaths worldwide. Evidence shows the effectiveness of healthy dietary patterns and lifestyles for the prevention of CVD. Furthermore, the rising incidence of CVD over the last 25 years has become a public health priority, especially the prevention of CVD (or cardiovascular events) through lifestyle interventions. Current scientific evidence shows that Western dietary patterns compared to healthier dietary patterns, such as the ‘Mediterranean diet’ (MeDiet), leads to an excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines associated with a reduced synthesis of anti-inflammatory cytokines. In fact, dietary intervention allows better combination of multiple foods and nutrients. Therefore, a healthy dietary pattern shows a greater magnitude of beneficial effects than the potential effects of a single nutrient supplementation. This review aims to identify potential targets (food patterns, single foods, or individual nutrients) for preventing CVD and quantifies the magnitude of the beneficial effects observed. On the other hand, we analyze the possible mechanisms implicated in this cardioprotective effect.

Factors Associated With the Concomitant Use of Cardiovascular Drugs and Dietary Herbal Products: A Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION

Dietary herbal products taken together with prescription medicines may have harmful effects. In this study, we evaluated the use of dietary herbal supplements and identified factors that predict the concomitant use of these supplements in patients taking drugs prescribed for chronic cardiovascular diseases.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional study with 343 patients with cardiovascular diseases. Data regarding the sociodemographic status, medical condition, number of prescription drugs, and use of herbal supplements were collected using a self-administered questionnaire.

RESULTS

Regular use of dietary herbal supplements was reported by 82.5% of patients. The most commonly consumed herbal supplement was garlic (71.2%), followed by onion (67.1%), and walnut (63.6%). Consumption of herbal supplements was commonly observed in patients with hypertension (53.6%). Among the patients in the study, 21.3% patients reported consumption of herbal supplements to the physician. Results of multivariable analysis showed that body mass index (odds ratio [OR] = 0.890, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.826-0.960), heart failure (OR = 0.325, 95% CI = 0.142-0.742), coronary artery disease (OR = 0.162, 95% CI = 0.069-0.379), smoking (OR = 3.852, 95% CI = 1.194-12.433), hypertension (OR = 10.584, 95% CI = 4.648-24.103), and dysrhythmia (OR = 9.339, 95% CI = 2.035-42.853) were associated with the use of dietary herbal supplements.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that dietary herbal supplements were commonly used by patients with chronic cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, understanding the interactions between the herbal supplements and drugs is necessary for minimizing adverse reactions.

Effects of a hydroalcoholic extract of Juglans regia (walnut) leaves on blood glucose and major cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetic patients: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Background

We aimed to evaluate the effects of a hydroalcoholic extract of Juglans regia L. leaves on blood glucose level and cardiovascular risk factors in type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group (2 arms) clinical trial, 50 diabetic patients were divided into two groups: treatment group (receive the capsules containing 100 mg J. regia leaf extract) and control group (receive the capsules containing placebo, microcrystallin cellulose). Baseline participant data were matched between the two arms of the study. We administered the prepared capsules to the patients twice daily for 8 weeks. Blood glucose level, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level, body weight, body mass index, blood pressure, lipid profile, serum insulin, and insulin resistance were compared between the two groups before and after the intervention. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

After excluding eleven patients, 20 received J. regia leaf extract and 20 patients received placebo. The J. regia leaf extract did not significantly change the blood glucose and insulin resistance condition. However, in this group, body weight, body mass index, and systolic blood pressure significantly decreased compared with the baseline measurements (P = 0.028, P = 0.030, and P = 0.005, respectively). The lipid profile did not change significantly compared with the baseline measurements. In the control group, postprandial glucose and HbA1c levels significantly decreased after the intervention (P = 0.030 and P = 0.028, respectively). The other variables were not significantly different in this group. At the end of the study, the variables were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusion

In this double-blind study, 200 mg/d of J. regia leaf extract had no significant effect on blood glucose level and HOMA-IR score in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, the J. regia leaf extract was effective in reducing body weight and blood pressure. An accidental finding of our study was that microcrystalline cellulose, a widely used placebo in clinical trials, led to a reduction in blood glucose level.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT: 138901203180 N2, 2010/6/6); retrospectively registered.

Nutraceuticals as therapeutic agents for atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disorder of medium and large arteries and an underlying cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD), is responsible for a third of all global deaths. Current treatments for CVD, such as optimized statin therapy, are associated with considerable residual risk and several side effects in some patients. The outcome of research on the identification of alternative pharmaceutical agents for the treatment of CVD has been relatively disappointing with many promising leads failing at the clinical level. Nutraceuticals, products from food sources with health benefits beyond their nutritional value, represent promising agents in the prevention of CVD or as an add-on therapy with current treatments. This review will highlight the potential of several nutraceuticals, including polyunsaturated fatty acids, flavonoids and other polyphenols, as anti-CVD therapies based on clinical and pre-clinical mechanism-based studies.

Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) as a superfood: Review of the scientific evidence behind the statement

Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) is a cruciferous vegetable, characterized by leaves along the stem, which, in recent years, have gained a great popularity as a ´superfood´. Consequently, in a popular culture it is listed in many ´lists of the healthiest vegetables´. Without the doubt, a scientific evidences support the fact that cruciferous vegetables included in human diet can positively affect health and well-being, but remains unclear why kale is declared superior in comparison with other cruciferous. It is questionable if this statement about kale is triggered by scientific evidence or by some other factors. Our review aims to bring an overview of kale's botanical characteristics, agronomic requirements, contemporary and traditional use, macronutrient and phytochemical content and biological activity, in order to point out the reasons for tremendous kale popularity.

Chemical Structures of Polyphenols That Critically Influence the Toxicity of ZnO Nanoparticles

Recent studies suggested that phytochemicals as natural antioxidants in food could alleviate nanoparticle (NP) toxicity. This study investigated the combined toxicity of ZnO NPs and a panel of polyphenols. Surprisingly, polyphenols with both high and almost no radical scavenging activities could elicit cytoprotective effects against NP exposure in Caco-2 cells, which were primarily influenced by the positions of the hydroxyl group. Polyphenols with different chemical structures variously influenced the hydrodynamic size, zeta potential, and solubility of ZnO NPs as well as NP-induced intracellular superoxide and Zn ions, which could all contribute to the combined effects. Responses of human endothelial cells appeared to be different from the responses of Caco-2 cells, which may indicate cell-type dependent responses to combined exposure of NPs and phytochemicals. In conclusion, the data from this study suggested a pivotal role of chemical structures of phytochemicals in determining their capacity to affect ZnO NP toxicity.

Association between different dietary polyphenol subclasses and the improvement in cardiometabolic risk factors: evidence from a randomized controlled clinical trial

AIMS

Due to their different chemical structures and metabolism, polyphenol subclasses may have specific impact on cardiometabolic risk factors. Our aim was to evaluate whether the intake of different polyphenol subclasses is associated with clinical outcomes beneficially improved by polyphenols in a nutritional trial performed by our group (postprandial lipid response, glucose homeostasis, early insulin secretion and oxidative stress).

METHODS

The present study is a secondary analysis of a nutritional intervention study with a diet naturally rich in polyphenols. The data are derived from 78 participants at high cardiovascular risk who completed the ETHERPATH trial. The associations between variations in polyphenol subclasses (phenolic acids, anthocyanidins, flavones, flavan-3-ols, flavonols and flavanones) and clinical outcomes beneficially influenced by polyphenols were firstly explored by Spearman's correlation. Thereafter, adjustment for gender, age and body mass index (BMI) was run. Linear regression analysis was used to assess the class of polyphenols that best predicted the outcome.

RESULTS

Flavanone intake was inversely correlated with postprandial lipid response, whereas flavone intake was related to postchallenge glucose response. Anthocyanidins and flavan-3-ols associated positively with early insulin secretion. The decrease in urinary isoprostanes correlated with anthocyanidins, flavan-3-ols and flavonols. Correlations did not change after adjustment for gender, age, and BMI. Linear regression analysis showed an independent association between flavonols and urinary isoprostanes, whereas early insulin secretion was mainly associated with flavan-3-ols intake.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study show that a polyphenol-rich diet may have a pleiotropic effect on cardiometabolic risk factors thanks to the specific action of different polyphenol subclasses.

The relationship between lipid phytochemicals, obesity and its related chronic diseases

This review focuses on phytochemicals in oils, and summarizes the mechanisms of the anti-obesity effects of these compounds in in vitro studies, animal models, and human trials.