Serum lycopene concentrations and carotid atherosclerosis: the Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study

Several lines of antioxidant defense against oxidative stress: antioxidant enzymes, nanomaterials with multiple enzyme-mimicking activities, and low-molecular-weight antioxidants

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are well recognized for playing a dual role, since they can be either deleterious or beneficial to biological systems. An imbalance between ROS production and elimination is termed oxidative stress, a critical factor and common denominator of many chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases, neurological disorders (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases), and other disorders. To counteract the harmful effects of ROS, organisms have evolved a complex, three-line antioxidant defense system. The first-line defense mechanism is the most efficient and involves antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). This line of defense plays an irreplaceable role in the dismutation of superoxide radicals (O2•-) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The removal of superoxide radicals by SOD prevents the formation of the much more damaging peroxynitrite ONOO- (O2•-  + NO• → ONOO-) and maintains the physiologically relevant level of nitric oxide (NO•), an important molecule in neurotransmission, inflammation, and vasodilation. The second-line antioxidant defense pathway involves exogenous diet-derived small-molecule antioxidants. The third-line antioxidant defense is ensured by the repair or removal of oxidized proteins and other biomolecules by a variety of enzyme systems. This review briefly discusses the endogenous (mitochondria, NADPH, xanthine oxidase (XO), Fenton reaction) and exogenous (e.g., smoking, radiation, drugs, pollution) sources of ROS (superoxide radical, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radical, peroxyl radical, hypochlorous acid, peroxynitrite). Attention has been given to the first-line antioxidant defense system provided by SOD, CAT, and GPx. The chemical and molecular mechanisms of antioxidant enzymes, enzyme-related diseases (cancer, cardiovascular, lung, metabolic, and neurological diseases), and the role of enzymes (e.g., GPx4) in cellular processes such as ferroptosis are discussed. Potential therapeutic applications of enzyme mimics and recent progress in metal-based (copper, iron, cobalt, molybdenum, cerium) and nonmetal (carbon)-based nanomaterials with enzyme-like activities (nanozymes) are also discussed. Moreover, attention has been given to the mechanisms of action of low-molecular-weight antioxidants (vitamin C (ascorbate), vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), carotenoids (e.g., β-carotene, lycopene, lutein), flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, anthocyanins, epicatechin), and glutathione (GSH)), the activation of transcription factors such as Nrf2, and the protection against chronic diseases. Given that there is a discrepancy between preclinical and clinical studies, approaches that may result in greater pharmacological and clinical success of low-molecular-weight antioxidant therapies are also subject to discussion.

Association between ischemic heart disease and dietary intake of lycopene: a case-control study

Aim

The effect of dietary lycopene on ischemic heart disease (IHD) is not clear. Hence, this study aimed to determine the association between dietary lycopene and IHD.

Methods

This case-control study was conducted on 443 patients with physician confirmed diagnosis of IHD as the case group and 443 healthy individuals as the control group. Data on demographic, medical history, anthropometric, and physical activity of the participants were collected. Food intake was evaluated using a 237-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The dietary intake of lycopene was assessed using Nutritionist IV software.

Results

A negative association was found between IHD and lycopene (OR: 0.98, CI 95%: 0.963-0.996, p = 0.02). The results remained significant after adjustment for age and sex, additional adjustment for dietary intake of calorie and fat, further adjustments for BMI, and additional adjustment for smoking, drinking alcohol, and physical activity. The risk of IHD in people with the highest quartile of dietary intake of lycopene was significantly lower than those with the lowest quartile (OR = 0.67, CI 95%: 0.46-0.97, p = 0.036).

Conclusion

There was a significant inverse relationship between intake of lycopene and IHD. Further prospective studies in different populations are required to elucidate the roles of lycopene against IHD.

Dietary antioxidant intake reduces carotid intima-media thickness in coronary heart disease patients: From the CORDIOPREV study

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis is the leading underlying cause of coronary heart disease (CHD). In patients with CHD, intima-media thickness of common carotid arteries (IMT-CC) is a reliable, validated, and non-invasive marker of the progression of atherosclerosis. Dietary intervention may affect IMT-CC evolution through different pathways. There is a lack of clinical trials evaluating the effect of total dietary antioxidant content of diets on IMT-CC, especially in patients with CHD.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the correlation between the diet's total antioxidant content and the changes in IMT-CC produced after 5 years of dietary intervention following two healthy diet models (Mediterranean diet and low-fat diet). We also evaluated whether the diet's total antioxidant content was related to the total redox capacity of the participants.

METHODS

From the total participants of the CORDIOPREV study (clinical trial register NCT00924937), 805 participants completed the IMT-CC measurement and the dietary antioxidant evaluation at baseline and after 5 years of dietary intervention. IMT-CC was carried out by ultrasound and the dietary antioxidant evaluation was performed by the Dietary Antioxidant Index (DAI). Additionally, direct redox balance was evaluated in a subset of population by the ratio of reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSH) by colorimetric assay.

RESULTS

We observed an inverse correlation between evolution of DAI and IMT-CC after 5-years of dietary intervention. The mean of the DAI index augmented in the Mediterranean Diet group, whereas it decreased in the Low-fat group. DAI was correlated to the GSH/GSSG ratio, supporting DAI as an adequate estimator of diet's antioxidant content. When looking for individual components of the DAI that were associated to the changes in IMT-CC, an inverse correlation was found for carotenoids, vitamin E, vitamin C, and zinc and the IMT-CC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates that, after five years of dietary intervention, changes in DAI inversely correlate with changes in IMT-CC in patients with CHD. Overall effect of Mediterranean diet resulted in an increase of DAI, conversely to low-fat. Specific elements included in the DAI index were inversely correlated with IMT-CC.

Association of serum lycopene concentrations with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among individuals with chronic kidney disease: A cohort study

Background

Lycopene is one of the hydrocarbon carotenoids which is largely studied for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as improvement of endothelial function and anti-arteriosclerosis effects. The use of lycopene has been shown to reduce mortality in the general population. However, few studies have examined the association between serum lycopene level and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Method

This study included 7,683 adults with CKD from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III, 1988-1994) and NHANES 2001-2006. Mortality status and cause of death were ascertained by linkage to National Death Index records through 31 December 2018. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CIs for mortality from all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Result

During a median follow-up time of 309 months, there were 5,226 total deaths. The median (interquartile range) serum lycopene concentration was 20.0 (12.0, 32.0) μg/dl. After fully adjusted, restricted cubic spline analyses reported that higher serum lycopene concentrations were significantly associated with decreased risk of all-cause and CVD mortality in participants with CKD (P < 0.001, P = 0.001). When extreme quartiles of serum lycopene concentrations were compared, the multivariable-adjusted HR (95% CI) was 0.778 (0.714-0.848) for all-cause mortality (P < 0.001), and 0.791 (0.692-0.905) for CVD mortality (P < 0.001). Specifically, higher serum lycopene decreased the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality at both CKD stage 1-2 and stage 3-5. Further subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses supported the current results.

Conclusion

Higher serum lycopene was independently associated with a decreased risk of all-cause and CVD mortality in patients with CKD. These findings suggested that maintain serum lycopene concentrations could lower mortality risk in CKD patients.

Effects of Lycopene Attenuating Injuries in Ischemia and Reperfusion

Tissue and organ ischemia can lead to cell trauma, tissue necrosis, irreversible damage, and death. While intended to reverse ischemia, reperfusion can further aggravate an ischemic injury (ischemia-reperfusion injury, I/R injury) through a range of pathologic processes. An I/R injury to one organ can also harm other organs, leading to systemic multiorgan failure. A type of carotenoid, lycopene, has been shown to treat and prevent many diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, male infertility, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular disease), making it a hot research topic in health care. Some recent researches have suggested that lycopene can evidently ameliorate ischemic and I/R injuries to many organs, but few clinical studies are available. Therefore, it is essential to review the effects of lycopene on ischemic and I/R injuries to different organs, which may help further research into its potential clinical applications.

Association of Serum Retinol Concentrations With Metabolic Syndrome Components in Iranian Children and Adolescents: The CASPIAN-V Study

Background

As a fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin A plays a crucial role in adipogenesis, lipolysis, insulin resistance, and obesity. However, it is still unclear whether they are associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in children and adolescents. The current study aimed to determine the association between serum retinol concentration and the cluster of metabolic syndrome components among children and adolescents.

Methods

This nationwide cross-sectional study was performed on 2,518 students aged 7–18 years from the Childhood and Adolescence Surveillance and Prevention of Adult Non- communicable disease (CASPIAN-V) study. Students were selected via multistage cluster sampling method from 30 provinces of Iran in 2015. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association of serum retinol concentration with metabolic syndrome (MetS) components.

Results

Overall, the mean (SD) age of study participants was 12.16 (3.04) years, and 44.9% (n = 1,166) of them were girls. The mean serum retinol concentration was 1.48 ± 1.55 μmol/L and vitamin A deficiency was observed among 19.7% (95% CI: 18.2–21.3) of study subjects. The results of the logistic regression analysis showed that increasing serum retinol concentrations were associated with an increased likelihood of developing obesity (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.20), abdominal obesity (OR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.14), low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.16) and high fasting blood glucose (FBG) (OR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.35), whereas it was associated with a decreased odds of developing high blood pressure (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.73, 0.93). Nevertheless, there was no statistically significant association between metabolic syndrome itself and retinol concentration (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.88, 1.18).

Conclusion

We found that serum retinol concentration was positively associated with metabolic syndrome components such as obesity, low HDL-C, and high FBG, but not with metabolic syndrome itself.

Association between Serum Vitamin A, Blood Lipid Level and Dyslipidemia among Chinese Children and Adolescents

Background: To study the relationship between serum vitamin A (VA) level and blood lipid profiles in children and adolescents aged 6−18 years, as well as the effect of VA on dyslipidemia. Methods: The project adopted a multistage stratified cluster sampling method. The Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was used to obtain dietary factors data. Blood samples of subjects were taken via venipuncture. Generalized linear models were used to explore the correlation be-tween VA and biochemical indicators, as well as stratified and inter-actions analysis to explore the influence of confounders on these relationships. Generalized linear models were constructed to explore the association between VA and blood lipids. Restricted cubic splines were used to characterize dose−response associations between serum VA and dyslipidemia based on logistic regression. Results: Serum VA was positively correlated with TC, TG and HDL-C (p < 0.05), but these associations were influenced by age (p < 0.05). The adjusted odds ratio (OR) values of VA for hypercho lesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, mixed hyperlipidemia and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterolemia were 3.283, 3.239, 5.219 and 0.346, respectively (p < 0.01). Meanwhile, significant age interactions affected the relationship between VA and TC, as well as TG and LDL-C (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Serum VA was positively correlated with blood lipids, but these associations were influenced by age. VA was a risk factor for dyslipidemias, such as hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia and mixed hyperlipidemia, but was a protective factor for low high-density lipoprotein cholesterolemia.

Promising Therapeutic Candidate for Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury: What Are the Possible Mechanisms and Roles of Phytochemicals?

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is one of the most effective reperfusion strategies for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) despite myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, causing one of the causes of most cardiomyocyte injuries and deaths. The pathological processes of myocardial I/R injury include apoptosis, autophagy, and irreversible cell death caused by calcium overload, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Eventually, myocardial I/R injury causes a spike of further cardiomyocyte injury that contributes to final infarct size (IS) and bound with hospitalization of heart failure as well as all-cause mortality within the following 12 months. Therefore, the addition of adjuvant intervention to improve myocardial salvage and cardiac function calls for further investigation. Phytochemicals are non-nutritive bioactive secondary compounds abundantly found in Chinese herbal medicine. Great effort has been put into phytochemicals because they are often in line with the expectations to improve myocardial I/R injury without compromising the clinical efficacy or to even produce synergy. We summarized the previous efforts, briefly outlined the mechanism of myocardial I/R injury, and focused on exploring the cardioprotective effects and potential mechanisms of all phytochemical types that have been investigated under myocardial I/R injury. Phytochemicals deserve to be utilized as promising therapeutic candidates for further development and research on combating myocardial I/R injury. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to provide a better understanding of the mechanism of myocardial I/R injury treatment using phytochemicals and possible side effects associated with this approach.

Lycopene: A Natural Arsenal in the War against Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Diseases

Lycopene is a bioactive red pigment found in plants, especially in red fruits and vegetables, including tomato, pink guava, papaya, pink grapefruit, and watermelon. Several research reports have advocated its positive impact on human health and physiology. For humans, lycopene is an essential substance obtained from dietary sources to fulfil the body requirements. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) causing oxidative stress and downstream complications include one of the major health concerns worldwide. In recent years, oxidative stress and its counter strategies have attracted biomedical research in order to manage the emerging health issues. Lycopene has been reported to directly interact with ROS, which can help to prevent chronic diseases, including diabetes and neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases. In this context, the present review article was written to provide an accumulative account of protective and ameliorative effects of lycopene on coronary artery disease (CAD) and hypertension, which are the leading causes of death worldwide. Lycopene is a potent antioxidant that fights ROS and, subsequently, complications. It reduces blood pressure via inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme and regulating nitrous oxide bioavailability. It plays an important role in lowering of LDL (low-density lipoproteins) and improving HDL (high-density lipoproteins) levels to minimize atherosclerosis, which protects the onset of coronary artery disease and hypertension. Various studies have advocated that lycopene exhibited a combating competence in the treatment of these diseases. Owing to all the antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-hypertensive properties, lycopene provides a potential nutraceutical with a protective and curing ability against coronary artery disease and hypertension.

Lycopene Improves In Vitro Development of Porcine Embryos by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis

In vitro culture (IVC) for porcine embryo development is inferior compared to in vivo development because oxidative stress can be induced by the production of excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) under high oxygen tension in the in vitro environment. To overcome this problem, we investigated the effect of lycopene, an antioxidant carotenoid, on developmental competence and the mechanisms involved in mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathways in porcine embryos. In vitro fertilized (IVF) embryos were cultured in IVC medium supplemented with 0, 0.02, 0.05, 0.1, or 0.2 μM lycopene. The results indicate that 0.1 μM lycopene significantly increased the rate of blastocyst formation and the total cell numbers, including trophectoderm cell numbers, on Day In terms of mitochondria-dependent apoptosis, IVF embryos treated with 0.1 μM lycopene exhibited significantly decreased levels of ROS, increased mitochondrial membrane potential, and decreased expression of cytochrome c on Days 2 and Furthermore, 0.1 μM lycopene significantly decreased the number and percentage of caspase 3-positive and apoptotic cells in Day-6 blastocysts. In addition, Day-2 embryos and Day-6 blastocysts treated with 0.1 μM lycopene showed significantly reduced mRNA expression related to antioxidant enzymes (SOD1, SOD2, CATALASE) and apoptosis (BAX/BCL2L1 ratio). These results indicate that lycopene supplementation during the entire period of IVC enhanced embryonic development in pigs by regulating oxidative stress and mitochondria-dependent apoptosis.

The effects of lycopene supplementation on serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels and cardiovascular disease: A dose-response meta-analysis of clinical trials

BACKGROUND

The results of human studies assessing the efficacy of lycopene on insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels are inconsistent. Thus, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the effects of lycopene supplementation on serum IGF-1 levels and cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

The literature published up to January 2020 was searched using the electronic databases Scopus, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Embase and Google Scholar.

RESULTS

Seven qualified trials were included in the current meta-analysis. IGF-1 levels were non-significantly decreased in lycopene group compared to the control (WMD: -6.74 ng/mL, 95 % CI: -23.01 to 9.52, p = 0.42; I² = 94.3 %). Subgroup analysis revealed a significantly decrease in IGF-1 levels upon lycopene supplementation at doses ≥15 mg/d (WMD: -6.40 ng/mL), intervention period <12 weeks (WMD: -6.49 ng/mL), and subjects aged ≥60 years (WMD: -24.98 mg/dl). In addition, lycopene intake significantly reduced IGF-1 levels upon healthy conditions (WMD: -25.59 ng/mL) when compared with cancer patients (WMD: 0.35 ng/mL). In addition, the effect of lycopene supplementation was significant in patients diagnosed with cardiac disorders.

CONCLUSION

Overall, lycopene intake was not associated with reduced serum IGF-1 levels. However, association was significant when lycopene was administrated at doses >15 mg/d, for <12 weeks, as well as for healthy conditions and patients aged ≥60 years. In addition, lycopene supplementation exhibited potential health benefits in the management of patients with cardiac disorders.

Tomato and lycopene and multiple health outcomes: Umbrella review

Lycopene is a potent lipophilic antioxidant in tomato. We aim to clarify the evidence for associations between tomato and lycopene and multiple health outcomes. Umbrella review of meta-analyses and systematic reviews was performed in humans. A total of 174 articles were searched, 17 articles with 20 health outcomes were identified by eligibility criteria. Tomato intake was inversely associated with all-cause mortality, coronary heart disease mortality, cerebrovascular disease mortality, prostate cancer, and gastric cancer. Dietary lycopene intake or serum lycopene was inversely associated with all-cause mortality, prostate cancer, stroke, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and male infertility. Caution was warranted for potential allergy and pollution. The quality of the vast majority of evidence by GRADE was low or very low with the remaining six as moderate. The intake of tomato or lycopene was generally safe and beneficial for multiple health outcomes in humans. But the quality of the evidence was not high.

Lycopene protects neuroblastoma cells against oxidative damage via depression of ER stress

Lycopene is a pigment derived from tomatoes and other red fruits, and has potent antioxidant and antitumor effects. However, its potential role in alleviating oxidative damage in neuronal cells is not well defined. In this study, we investigated the effects of lycopene on H₂ O₂ -induced damage in neuroblastoma cells, as well as the underlying mechanisms. Exposure to H₂ O₂ markedly decreased the viability of SH-SY5Y cells and increased LDH release, both of which were reversed by lycopene pretreatment. Lycopene also ameliorated H₂ O₂ -induced damage and reduced the expression of apoptotic markers, such as Bcl-2, Bax, and cleaved caspase 3. In addition, the H₂ O₂ -induced oxidative markers, including MDA, 8-OHdG, and protein carbonyls, were also downregulated by lycopene. Exogenous H₂ O₂ activated the GRP78/PERK/eIF2α signaling pathway, which was inhibited by pretreatment with lycopene. Finally, lycopene significantly ameliorated ER stress-induced activation and nuclear translocation of CHOP. Overexpression of CHOP markedly reversed the antiapoptotic effects of lycopene, indicating that it is essential for the latter's protective effects. Taken together, lycopene protects neuroblastoma cells from oxidative stress and ER stress-induced damage by inhibiting the PERK-CHOP signaling pathway, which is a potential therapeutic target in neurodegenerative diseases. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Lycopene demonstrated antioxidative damage properties in protecting the neural system in vitro. The present study provides a novel preventive strategy against neurodegenerative diseases. Increased consumption of lycopene-based products and lycopene-rich fruits and vegetables may result in a lower risk for neurodegenerative diseases.

5-cis-, Trans- and Total Lycopene Plasma Concentrations Inversely Relate to Atherosclerotic Plaque Burden in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Subjects

Diabetic subjects are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis, the common soil of most of the cardiovascular complications, is more prevalent and extensive in this population due not only to hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia, but also to inflammation and oxidative stress. Lycopenes are bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities mostly supplied by tomato and tomato byproducts. We investigated the association between circulating lycopenes and carotid plaque burden in diabetic patients, in a cross-sectional study in 105 newly diagnosed diabetic subjects. Atheroma plaque (wall thickness ≥ 1.5 mm), number of plaques, and plaque burden (sum of maximum heights of all plaques) were assessed by sonographic evaluation of carotid arteries. Plasma lycopenes (5-cis-, 9-cis-, 13-cis-, and trans-lycopene) were quantified by high performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry HPLC-MS. Atheroma plaque was observed in 75 participants, from which 38 presented one plaque and 37 two or more carotid plaques. No differences were observed in the plasmatic concentrations of lycopenes between subjects with and without atherosclerotic plaque presence. However, plaque burden was inversely associated with 5-cis-lycopene, all cis-lycopene isomers, trans-lycopene, and total lycopene isomers (all, p < 0.05). High plasma levels of lycopenes inversely relate to atherosclerotic burden. We provide novel evidence that suggests that the consumption of compounds found in tomato and tomato byproducts might be beneficial for the prevention of atherosclerosis.

Continuous Self-Cycling Fermentation Leads to Economical Lycopene Production by Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The economic feasibility and waste treatment problem are challenges to the industrialization of lycopene production from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this study, fermentation wastewater, biomass residue, and residual D-galactose are recycled for lycopene production. Results show that when fresh water is totally replaced by wastewater, lycopene titer attains 1.21 ± 0.02 g/L, which is 14.2% higher than the fresh water group (P < 0.05). An 80% replacement ratio of yeast extract by biomass residue causes no significant difference to lycopene production while 100% replacement ratio significantly lowers lycopene titer compared with the yeast extract group. Then, a novel fermentation medium containing wastewater and biomass residue with supplementing 3 g/L yeast extract and D-galactose is used for lycopene production. Lycopene titer increases 22.4% than the traditional fermentation in shake flasks (P < 0.05). Continuous self-cycling strategy using wastewater and biomass residue was tested in shake flasks. The mean lycopene titer of the first five recycles shows no significant difference with the start batch. Scaling up to 70 L fermenter, the mean lycopene titer attains 5.88 ± 0.15 g/L in three recycles, which is 22.25% higher than the start batch (P < 0.05). Economic analysis shows that the lowest unite product cost is achieved when four recycles are accomplished, which is 29.6% lower than the traditional fermentation while the chemical oxygen demand decreases 64.0%. Our study shows that continuous self-cycling fermentation process for lycopene production is feasible for the first time. The comprehensive utilization of wastewater and biomass residue from lycopene production by S. cerevisiae and achievement of high lycopene titer will hopefully accelerate industrialization of microbial production of lycopene.

The role of β-carotene and vitamin A in atherogenesis: Evidences from preclinical and clinical studies

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the principal contributor to myocardial infarction, the leading cause of death worldwide. Epidemiological and mechanistic studies indicate that β-carotene and its vitamin A derivatives stimulate lipid catabolism in several tissues to reduce the incidence of obesity, but their roles within ASCVD are elusive. Herein, we review the mechanisms by which β-carotene and vitamin A modulate ASCVD. First, we summarize the current knowledge linking these nutrients with epidemiological studies and lipoprotein metabolism as one of the initiating factors of ASCVD. Next, we focus on different aspects of vitamin A metabolism in immune cells such as the mechanisms of carotenoid uptake and conversion to the vitamin A metabolite, retinoic acid. Lastly, we review the effects of retinoic acid on immuno-metabolism, differentiation, and function of macrophages and T cells, the two pillars of the innate and adaptive immune response in ASCVD, respectively. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Carotenoids recent advances in cell and molecular biology edited by Johannes von Lintig and Loredana Quadro.

Unsalted tomato juice intake improves blood pressure and serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level in local Japanese residents at risk of cardiovascular disease

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of unsalted tomato juice intake on cardiovascular risk markers in local Japanese residents. Four hundred and eighty-one local residents in Kuriyama, Japan, were enrolled in this study. Throughout the year of the study, they were provided with as much unsalted tomato juice as they wanted. Participants were screened for cardiovascular risk markers, such as blood pressure (BP), serum lipid profile, and glucose tolerance, before and after the study period. Of the study participants, 260 participated in a detailed study of their lifestyle factors. The average ages of the 184 male and 297 female participants were 56.3 ± 13.3 (mean ± SD) and 58.4 ± 11.7 years, respectively. BP in 94 participants with untreated prehypertension or hypertension was significantly lowered (systolic BP, 141.2 ± 12.1-137.0 ± 16.3 mmHg, p = 0.003; diastolic BP, 83.3 ± 10.1-80.9 ± 11.1 mmHg, p = 0.012, paired t test). Further, the serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level in 125 participants with untreated dyslipidemia significantly decreased (155.0 ± 23.2-149.9 ± 25.0 mg/dl, p = 0.005, paired t test). These beneficial effects were not different between sexes and among the different age groups. No significant difference in lifestyle was found before and after the study. Unsalted tomato juice intake improved systolic and diastolic BP and serum LDL-C level in local Japanese residents at risk of cardiovascular conditions.

Nutrients, Bioactive Compounds and Bioactivity: The Health Benefits of Sweet Cherries (Prunus avium L.)

Background:

Sweet cherries are one of the most appreciated fruits worldwide as well as one of the great sources of several active substances, as phytochemical compounds (carotenoids, serotonin, melatonin and phenolic compounds) as well as in nutritive compounds (sugars and organic acids). Accumulating research demonstrate that their supplementation in our daily diet can contradict oxidative stress, mitigating or even attenuating chronic diseases, as cancerous processes, antiinflammatory- related disorders, diabetes, and neurological and cardiovascular pathologies. Therefore, the aims of this review are to present an overview on the effects of sweet cherries as health promotors, giving emphasis to the health benefits of their bioactive compounds, particularly their antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-neurodegeneration, anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular effects.

Methods:

Research and online content about sweet cherry fruits is reviewed. The information available has been read several times to avoid inconsistencies. In addition, according what we read, original figures were done and added to facilitate understanding and to enrich the paper.

Results:

In this review, a total of 202 original reports were used. In respect to health benefits, it is possible to confirm by several studies that, in fact, the consumption of sweet cherries has positive impacts in human health, owing to their wealthy and vast constitution, particularly in phenolic compounds, vitamins and carotenoids whose health properties were already documented.

Conclusion:

The findings of this review support the evidence that sweet cherries can be applied in pharmaceutical and food formulations, since they are able to diminish free radical species and proinflammatory markers, preventing and/ or ameliorating oxidative-stress disorders.

Higher dietary and serum carotenoid levels are associated with lower carotid intima-media thickness in middle-aged and elderly people

Several studies have suggested that higher carotenoid levels may be beneficial for atherosclerosis patients, but few studies have examined this relationship in the Chinese population. This cross-sectional study examined the association between the levels of carotenoids in diet and serum and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) in Chinese adults aged 50-75 years in Guangzhou, China. Dietary intake was assessed using a FFQ. HPLC was used to assay the serum concentrations of α-carotene, β-carotene, lutein+zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin and lycopene. The IMT at the common carotid artery (CCA) and bifurcation of the carotid artery was measured by B-mode ultrasound. A total of 3707 and 2947 participants were included in the analyses of dietary and serum carotenoids. After adjustment for demographic, socio-economic and lifestyle factors, all the serum carotenoids levels except lycopene were found to be inversely associated with the IMT at the CCA and bifurcation (P trend<0·001 to 0·013) in both men and women. The absolute mean differences in the IMT between the subjects in the extreme quartiles of serum carotenoid levels were 0·034 mm (α-carotene), 0·037 mm (β-carotene), 0·032 mm (lutein+zeaxanthin), 0·030 mm (β-cryptoxanthin), 0·015 mm (lycopene) and 0·035 mm (total carotenoids) at the CCA; the corresponding values were 0·025, 0·053 0·043, 0·050, 0·011 and 0·042 mm at the bifurcation. The favourable associations were also observed between dietary carotenoids (except lycopene) and the CCA IMT. In conclusion, elevated carotenoid levels in diet and serum are associated with lower carotid IMT values (particular at the CCA) in Chinese adults.

Lycopene Inhibits Propagation of Chlamydia Infection

Chlamydiaceae is a family of obligate intracellular pathogenic bacteria with similar developmental cycles and cell biology responsible for a wide range of diseases in different hosts including genital and eye inflammatory diseases, arthritis, and inflammatory diseases of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. In the present paper, we report that lycopene, one of the main dietary carotenoids, which is present in tomato and some other fruits, has a strong inhibitory effect on C. trachomatis and C. pneumoniae infections in alveolar macrophages. This finding was documented by both immunofluorescence analysis and electron microscopy. It was noted that lycopene treatment inhibited intracellular phase of the chlamydial developmental cycle and resulted in a significant loss of infectious progeny. The antichlamydial effect of lycopene was also confirmed in a clinical setting. There was a significant reduction of IgG antibodies against C. pneumoniae in the serum of volunteers treated for a month with oral ingestion of 7 mg of lycopene. Additional studies are needed to further explore the antichlamydial activity of lycopene and its possible effect on C. pneumoniae in relation to antichlamydial activity of lycopene to mechanisms of atherosclerosis.

Carotenoids: biochemistry, pharmacology and treatment

Carotenoids and retinoids have several similar biological activities such as antioxidant properties, the inhibition of malignant tumour growth and the induction of apoptosis. Supplementation with carotenoids can affect cell growth and modulate gene expression and immune responses. Epidemiological studies have shown a correlation between a high carotenoid intake in the diet with a reduced risk of breast, cervical, ovarian, colorectal cancers, and cardiovascular and eye diseases. Cancer chemoprevention by dietary carotenoids involves several mechanisms, including effects on gap junctional intercellular communication, growth factor signalling, cell cycle progression, differentiation-related proteins, retinoid-like receptors, antioxidant response element, nuclear receptors, AP-1 transcriptional complex, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, carotenoids can stimulate the proliferation of B- and T-lymphocytes, the activity of macrophages and cytotoxic T-cells, effector T-cell function and the production of cytokines. Recently, the beneficial effects of carotenoid-rich vegetables and fruits in health and in decreasing the risk of certain diseases has been attributed to the major carotenoids, β-carotene, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, crocin (/crocetin) and curcumin, due to their antioxidant effects. It is thought that carotenoids act in a time- and dose-dependent manner. In this review, we briefly describe the biological and immunological activities of the main carotenoids used for the treatment of various diseases and their possible mechanisms of action.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed section on Principles of Pharmacological Research of Nutraceuticals. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.11/issuetoc.

Quantification of Lycopene, β-Carotene, and Total Soluble Solids in Intact Red-Flesh Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Using On-Line Near-Infrared Spectroscopy

A great interest has recently been focused on lycopene and β-carotene, because of their antioxidant action in the organism. Red-flesh watermelon is one of the main sources of lycopene as the most abundant carotenoid. The use of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in post-harvesting has permitted us to rapidly quantify lycopene, β-carotene, and total soluble solids (TSS) on single intact fruits. Watermelons, harvested in 2013–2015, were submitted to near-infrared (NIR) radiation while being transported along a conveyor belt system, stationary and in movement, and at different positions on the belt. Eight hundred spectra from 100 samples were collected as calibration set in the 900–1700 nm interval. Calibration models were performed using partial least squares (PLS) regression on pre-treated spectra (derivatives and SNV) in the ranges 2.65–151.75 mg/kg (lycopene), 0.19–9.39 mg/kg (β-carotene), and 5.3%–13.7% (TSS). External validation was carried out with 35 new samples and on 35 spectra. The PLS models for intact watermelon could predict lycopene with R² = 0.877 and SECV = 15.68 mg/kg, β-carotene with R² = 0.822 and SECV = 0.81 mg/kg, and TSS with R² = 0.836 and SECV = 0.8%. External validation has confirmed predictive ability with R² = 0.805 and RMSEP = 16.19 mg/kg for lycopene, R2 = 0.737 and RMSEP = 0.96 mg/kg for β-carotene, and R² = 0.707 and RMSEP = 1.4% for TSS. The results allow for the market valorization of fruits.

Utilization of watermelon pulp for lycopene extraction by response surface methodology

Lycopene extraction was optimized from watermelon pulp using response surface methodology using independent variables:solvent/meal ratio (4:1-12:1v/w), number of extractions (1-5), temperature (20-60°C) and extraction time (4-20min). Watermelon pulp had 59.95mglycopene/100g on fresh weight basis. The experimental values of lycopene with selected combinations of independent variables were 8.20-59.17mg/100g on fresh weight basis. The second order model obtained revealed a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.986, the standard error of 0.04, the root mean square error of 0.02 and a scattered plot between experimental and predicted values. The optimum solvent/meal ratio, number of extractions, temperature and extraction time were 10:1v/w, four, 50°C and 16min respectively. The optimum conditions of lycopene extraction were confirmed experimentally.

Lycopene Extracts from Different Tomato-Based Food Products Induce Apoptosis in Cultured Human Primary Prostate Cancer Cells and Regulate TP53, Bax and Bcl-2 Transcript Expression

Carotenoids are the main tomato components, especially lycopene. Lycopene is more bioavailable in tomato processed products than in raw tomatos, since formation of lycopene cis-isomers during food processing and storage may increase its biological activity. In the current study, we evaluated the influence of lycopene extracts (5 mg / mL) from different tomato-based food products (paste, sauce, extract and ketchup) on cell viability and apoptosis on primary human prostate cancer cells (PCa cels) for 96h. Using MTT assay, we observed a significant decrease on primary PCa cell viability upon treatment with lycopene extracted from either 4 tomato-based food products. Flow cytometeric analysis revealed that lycopene from tomato extract and tomato sauce promoted up to fifty-fold increase on the proportion of apoptotic cells, when compared to the control group. Using real time PCR assay, we found that lycopene promoted an upregulation of TP53 and Bax transcript expression and also downregulation of Bcl-2 expression in PCa cells. In conclusion, our data demostrate that cis-lycopene promoted a significant inhibition on primary PCa cell viability, as well as an increase on their apoptotic rates, evidencing that cis-lycopene contained in tomato sauce and extract cain mainly modulate of primary human prostate cancer cell survival.

Association between Micronutrients Intake/Status and Carotid Intima Media Thickness: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Carotid intima media thickness (IMT) is a noninvasive marker of the extent and severity of subclinical atherosclerosis. Micronutrient intake may affect atherosclerosis and play a major role in the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this review was to synthesize the evidence regarding the association between carotid IMT and selected micronutrients.

METHOD

The authors searched PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases from inception to June 2016 for selected micronutrients, CVD, carotid IMT, and antioxidants. Thirty-five original studies met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed following preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis guidelines.

RESULTS

Although not all studies found consistent results, the weight of the evidence suggests that high intakes and/or circulatory levels of magnesium, as well as vitamin D and the vitamin B group, may be associated with lower carotid IMT or reduced progression of carotid IMT. The majority of studies did not find any significant association between vitamin E and C and carotid IMT. Less evidence was available for associations of retinol, zinc, and iron with carotid IMT.

CONCLUSIONS

In general, the current evidence concerning micronutrient intake and carotid IMT is largely inconclusive. Pragmatic clinical trials are required to determine whether dietary or supplemental intake of specific micronutrients alters carotid IMT, which is a surrogate measure of cardiovascular risk.

Fruitflow®: the first European Food Safety Authority-approved natural cardio-protective functional ingredient

Hyperactive platelets, in addition to their roles in thrombosis, are also important mediators of atherogenesis. Antiplatelet drugs are not suitable for use where risk of a cardiovascular event is relatively low. It is therefore important to find alternative safe antiplatelet inhibitors for the vulnerable population who has hyperactive platelets in order to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Potent antiplatelet factors were identified in water-soluble tomato extract (Fruitflow^®), which significantly inhibited platelet aggregation. Human volunteer studies demonstrated the potency and bioavailability of active compounds in Fruitflow^®. Fruitflow^® became the first product in Europe to obtain an approved, proprietary health claim under Article 13(5) of the European Health Claims Regulation 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods. Fruitflow^® is now commercially available in different countries worldwide. In addition to its reduction in platelet reactivity, Fruitflow^® contains anti-angiotensin-converting enzyme and anti-inflammatory factors, making it an effective and natural cardio-protective functional food.

Lycopene dietary intervention: a pilot study in patients with heart failure

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Heart failure (HF) is a condition of chronic exacerbations and injury resulting from an intricate relationship between biochemical and biological mechanisms. Inflammation can be a significant contributor in the pathophysiology of HF. Antioxidants may slow the progression of HF because of their ability to inhibit damaging inflammatory processes. The purpose of this study was to test a dietary intervention in patients with HF to assess the impact of lycopene on biomarkers of inflammation.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Forty participants with HF were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: lycopene intervention and usual care. The lycopene intervention group received 29.4 mg of lycopene intake per day by drinking an 11.5 oz serving of V8 100% vegetable juice for 30 days. We obtained serum lycopene, uric acid, C-reactive protein (CRP), and b-type natriuretic peptide to determine the impact of the intervention.

RESULTS

Plasma lycopene levels increased in the intervention group compared with the usual care group (0.51 μmol/L to 0.76 μmol/L, P = .002; 0.56 μmol/L to 0.58 μmol/L). C-reactive protein levels decreased significantly in the intervention group in women and but not in men (P = .04). The preintervention CRP level for women was 5.9 ± 3.7 mg/dL and for men was 2.2 ± 2.1 mg/dL. The postintervention CRP level for women was 4.5 ± 3.6 mg/dL and for men was 2.4 ± 2.1 mg/dL.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the antioxidants in a 30-day intervention of V8 juice affect CRP levels in a sample of female patients with HF.

Intravenous Administration of Lycopene, a Tomato Extract, Protects against Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Background: Oral uptake of lycopene has been shown to be beneficial for preventing myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the strong first-pass metabolism of lycopene influences its bioavailability and impedes its clinic application. In this study, we determined an intravenous (IV) administration dose of lycopene protects against myocardial infarction (MI) in a mouse model, and investigated the effects of acute lycopene administration on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and related signaling pathways during myocardial I/R. Methods: In this study, we established both in vitro hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) cell model and in vivo regional myocardial I/R mouse model by ligating left anterior artery descending. TTC dual staining was used to assess I/R induced MI in the absence and presence of acute lycopene administration via tail vein injection. Results: Lycopene treatment (1 μM) before reoxygenation significantly reduced cardiomyocyte death induced by H/R. Intravenous administration of lycopene to achieve 1 μM concentration in circulating blood significantly suppressed MI, ROS production, and JNK phosphorylation in the cardiac tissue of mice during in vivo regional I/R. Conclusion: Elevating circulating lycopene to 1 μM via IV injection protects against myocardial I/R injury through inhibition of ROS accumulation and consequent inflammation in mice.

Potential of Dietary Non-Provitamin A Carotenoids in the Prevention and Treatment of Diabetic Microvascular Complications

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease that affects a substantial part of the population around the world. Whether type I or type II, this disease has serious macro- and microvascular complications that constitute the primary cause of death in diabetic patients. Microvascular complications include diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Although these complications are clinically and etiologically diverse, they share a common factor: glucose-induced damage. In the progression of diabetic complications, oxidative stress, inflammation, and the formation of glycation end products play an important role. Previous studies have shown that a healthy diet is vital in preventing these complications; in particular, the intake of antioxidants has been studied for their potential effect in ameliorating hyperglycemic injuries. Carotenoids are lipid-soluble pigments synthesized by plants, bacteria, and some kinds of algae that are responsible for the yellow, red, and orange colors in food. These compounds are part of the antioxidant machinery in plants and have also shown their efficacy in quenching free radicals, scavenging reactive oxygen species, modulating gene expression, and reducing inflammation in vitro and in vivo, showing that they can potentially be used as part of a preventive strategy for metabolic disorders, including diabetes and its related complications. This review highlights the potential protective effects of 4 non-provitamin A carotenoids--lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, and astaxanthin--in the development and progression of diabetic microvascular complications.

Vitamin E Content and Composition in Tomato Fruits: Beneficial Roles and Bio-Fortification

Several epidemiological studies have demonstrated that high vitamin E intakes are related to a reduced risk of non-communicable diseases, while other dietary antioxidants are not, suggesting that vitamin E exerts specific healthy functions in addition to its antioxidant role. In this regard, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), one of the most consumed vegetables of the whole world population, is an important source of both tocopherols and tocotrienols. However, vitamin E content may strongly depend on several biotic and abiotic factors. In this review we will debate the elements affecting the synthesis of tocopherols and tocotrienols in tomato fruit, such as environmental conditions, genotype, fruit maturity level, and the impact of classical processing methods, such as pasteurization and lyophilization on the amount of these compounds. In addition we will analyze the specific vitamin E mechanisms of action in humans and the consequent functional effects derived from its dietary intake. Finally, we will examine the currently available molecular techniques used to increase the content of vitamin E in tomato fruit, starting from the identification of genetic determinants and quantitative trait loci that control the accumulation of these metabolites.

Carotenoids: potential allies of cardiovascular health?

Carotenoids are a class of natural, fat-soluble pigments found principally in plants. They have potential antioxidant biological properties because of their chemical structure and interaction with biological membranes. Epidemiologic studies supported the hypothesis that antioxidants could be used as an inexpensive means of both primary and secondary cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention. In fact, the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in the vessels plays a key role in the development of atherosclerotic lesions. The resistance of LDL to oxidation is increased by high dietary antioxidant intake, so that carotenoids, as part of food patterns such as the Mediterranean diet, may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health too. Further properties of carotenoids leading to a potential reduction of cardiovascular risk are represented by lowering of blood pressure, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and markers of inflammation (such as C-reactive protein), and improvement of insulin sensitivity in muscle, liver, and adipose tissues. In addition, recent nutrigenomics studies have focused on the exceptional ability of carotenoids in modulating the expression of specific genes involved in cell metabolism. The aim of this review is to focus attention to this effect of some carotenoids to prevent CVD.

Lycopene and apo-10'-lycopenoic acid have differential mechanisms of protection against hepatic steatosis in β-carotene-9',10'-oxygenase knockout male mice

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is positively associated with obesity and cardiovascular disease risk. Apo-10'-lycopenoic acid (APO10LA), a potential oxidation product of apo-10'-lycopenal that is generated endogenously by β-carotene-9',10'-oxygenase (BCO2) cleavage of lycopene, inhibited hepatic steatosis in BCO2-expressing mice.

OBJECTIVE

The present study evaluated lycopene and APO10LA effects on hepatic steatosis in mice without BCO2 expression.

METHODS

Male and female BCO2-knockout (BCO2-KO) mice were fed a high saturated fat diet (HSFD) with or without APO10LA (10 mg/kg diet) or lycopene (100 mg/kg diet) for 12 wk.

RESULTS

Lycopene or APO10LA supplementation reduced hepatic steatosis incidence (78% and 72%, respectively) and severity in BCO2-KO male mice. Female mice did not develop steatosis, had greater hepatic total cholesterol (3.06 vs. 2.31 mg/g tissue) and cholesteryl ester (1.58 vs. 0.86 mg/g tissue), but had lower plasma triglyceride (TG) (229 vs. 282 mg/dL) and cholesterol (97.1 vs. 119 mg/dL) than male mice. APO10LA-mitigated steatosis in males was associated with reduced hepatic total cholesterol (18%) and activated sirtuin 1 signaling, which resulted in reduced fatty acids (FAs) and TG synthesis markers [stearoyl-coenzyme A (CoA) desaturase protein, 71%; acetyl-CoA carboxylase phosphorylation, 79%; AMP-activated protein kinase phosphorylation, 67%], and elevated cholesterol efflux genes (cytochrome P450 family 7A1, 65%; ATP-binding cassette transporter G5/8, 11%). These APO10LA-mediated effects were not mimicked by lycopene supplementation. Intriguingly, steatosis inhibition by lycopene induced peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α- and PPARγ-related genes in mesenteric adipose tissue (MAT) that increases mitochondrial uncoupling [cell death-inducing DNA fragmentation factor, α subunit-like effector a, 55%; PR domain-containing 16, 47%; uncoupling protein 3 (Ucp3), 55%], FA β-oxidation (PPARα, 53%; very long chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, 38%), and uptake (FA transport protein 4, 29%; lipoprotein lipase 43%). Expressions of 10 MAT PPAR-related genes were inversely correlated with steatosis score, suggesting that lycopene reduced steatosis by increasing MAT FA utilization.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that lycopene and APO10LA inhibit HSFD-induced steatosis in BCO2-KO male mice through differential mechanisms. Sex disparity of BCO2-KO mice was observed in the outcomes of HSFD-induced liver steatosis and plasma lipids.

Effects of lycopene on number and function of human peripheral blood endothelial progenitor cells cultivated with high glucose

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of lycopene on the migration, adhesion, tube formation capacity, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) activity of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) cultivated with high glucose (HG) and as well as explore the mechanism behind the protective effects of lycopene on peripheral blood EPCs.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Mononuclear cells were isolated from human peripheral blood by Ficoll density gradient centrifugation. EPCs were identified after induction of cellular differentiation. Third generation EPCs were incubated with HG (33 mmol/L) or 10, 30, and 50 µg/mL of lycopene plus HG. MTT assay and flow cytometry were performed to assess proliferation and apoptosis of EPCs. EPC migration was assessed by MTT assay with a modified boyden chamber. Adhesion assay was performed by replating EPCs on fibronectin-coated dishes, after which adherent cells were counted. In vitro vasculogenesis activity was assayed by Madrigal network formation assay. Western blotting was performed to analyze protein expression of both phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated p38 MAPK.

RESULTS

The proliferation, migration, adhesion, and in vitro vasculogenesis capacity of EPCs treated with 10, 30, and 50 µg/mL of lycopene plus HG were all significantly higher comapred to the HG group (P < 0.05). Rates of apoptosis were also significantly lower than that of the HG group. Moreover, lycopene blocked phosphorylation of p38 MAPK in EPCs (P < 0.05). To confirm the causal relationship between MAPK inhibition and the protective effects of lycopene against HG-induced cellular injury, we treated cells with SB203580, a phosphorylation inhibitor. The inhibitor significantly inhibited HG-induced EPC injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Lycopene promotes proliferation, migration, adhesion, and in vitro vasculogenesis capacity as well as reduces apoptosis of EPCs. Further, the underlying molecular mechanism of the protective effects of lycopene against HG-induced EPC injury may involve the p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway. Specifically, lycopene was shown to inhibit HG-induced EPC injury by inhibiting p38 MAPKs.

Effects of oral lycopene supplementation on vascular function in patients with cardiovascular disease and healthy volunteers: a randomised controlled trial

AIMS

The mechanisms by which a 'Mediterranean diet' reduces cardiovascular disease (CVD) burden remain poorly understood. Lycopene is a potent antioxidant found in such diets with evidence suggesting beneficial effects. We wished to investigate the effects of lycopene on the vasculature in CVD patients and separately, in healthy volunteers (HV).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We randomised 36 statin treated CVD patients and 36 healthy volunteers in a 2∶1 treatment allocation ratio to either 7 mg lycopene or placebo daily for 2 months in a double-blind trial. Forearm responses to intra-arterial infusions of acetylcholine (endothelium-dependent vasodilatation; EDV), sodium nitroprusside (endothelium-independent vasodilatation; EIDV), and NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (basal nitric oxide (NO) synthase activity) were measured using venous plethysmography. A range of vascular and biochemical secondary endpoints were also explored. EDV in CVD patients post-lycopene improved by 53% (95% CI: +9% to +93%, P = 0.03 vs. placebo) without changes to EIDV, or basal NO responses. HVs did not show changes in EDV after lycopene treatment. Blood pressure, arterial stiffness, lipids and hsCRP levels were unchanged for lycopene vs. placebo treatment groups in the CVD arm as well as the HV arm. At baseline, CVD patients had impaired EDV compared with HV (30% lower; 95% CI: -45% to -10%, P = 0.008), despite lower LDL cholesterol (1.2 mmol/L lower, 95% CI: -1.6 to -0.9 mmol/L, P<0.001). Post-therapy EDV responses for lycopene-treated CVD patients were similar to HVs at baseline (2% lower, 95% CI: -30% to +30%, P = 0.85), also suggesting lycopene improved endothelial function.

CONCLUSIONS

Lycopene supplementation improves endothelial function in CVD patients on optimal secondary prevention, but not in HVs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01100385.

The association between carotid intima media thickness and individual dietary components and patterns

AIMS

To review: 1) the correlation between individual dietary components and carotid intima media thickness (cIMT); 2) the relationship between dietary patterns and cIMT; 3) the effect of dietary interventions on cIMT progression.

DATA SYNTHESIS

An electronic search for epidemiological and intervention trials investigating the association between dietary components or patterns of intake and cIMT was performed in PUBMED, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library. Epidemiological data shows that a higher intake of fruit, wholegrains and soluble fibre and lower consumption of saturated fat in favour of polyunsaturated fat is associated with lower cIMT. In people at high risk of cardiovascular disease >93 g/day of fruit is associated with lower cIMT. Lower cIMT has also been observed when >0.79 serves/day of wholegrains and >25 g/day of fibre, predominately in the soluble form is consumed. Saturated fat is positively associated with cIMT, for every 10 g/day increase in saturated fat cIMT is 0.03 mm greater. Olive oil is inversely associated with cIMT, with a benefit seen when >34 g/day is consumed. While there are many epidemiological studies exploring the association between dietary intake and cIMT there are few intervention studies. Intervention studies show that a Mediterranean diet may reduce cIMT progression, especially in those with a higher cIMT.

CONCLUSIONS

A Mediterranean style dietary pattern, which is high in fruits, wholegrains, fibre and olive oil and low in saturated fat, may reduce carotid atherosclerosis development and progression. However further research from randomised controlled trials is required to understand the association between diet and cIMT and the underlying mechanisms.

Enhancing the health-promoting effects of tomato fruit for biofortified food

Consumption of tomato fruits, like those of many other plant species that are part of the human diet, is considered to be associated with several positive effects on health. Indeed, tomato fruits are an important source of bioactive compounds with known beneficial effects including vitamins, antioxidants, and anticancer substances. In particular, antioxidant metabolites are a group of vitamins, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and phenolic acid that can provide effective protection by neutralizing free radicals, which are unstable molecules linked to the development of a number of degenerative diseases and conditions. In this review, we will summarize the recent progress on tomatoes nutritional importance and mechanisms of action of different phytochemicals against inflammation processes and prevention of chronic noncommunicable diseases (e.g., obesity, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and hypertension). In addition, we will summarize the significant progress recently made to improve the nutritional quality of tomato fruits through metabolic engineering and/or breeding.

Dietary intake of carotenoids and their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in cardiovascular care

Cardiovascular disease related to atherosclerosis represents nowadays the largest cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries. Due to inflammatory nature of atherosclerosis, several studies had been conducted in order to search for substances with anti-inflammatory activity on arterial walls, able to exert beneficial roles on health. Researches investigated the role of dietary carotenoids supplementation on cardiovascular disease, due to their free radicals scavenger properties and their skills in improving low-density lipoprotein cholesterol resistance to oxidation. Nevertheless, literature data are conflicting: although some studies found a positive relationship between carotenoids supplementation and cardiovascular risk reduction, others did not find any positive effects or even prooxidant actions. This paper aimed at defining the role of carotenoids supplementation on cardiovascular risk profile by reviewing literature data, paying attention to those carotenoids more present in our diet (β-carotene, α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin).

Effect of lycopene from Chlorella marina on high cholesterol-induced oxidative damage and inflammation in rats

Even though the role of all-trans lycopene from tomato in controlling atherosclerosis was reported, but no report is available on the cis-isomer of lycopene obtained from an easily available source green algae Chlorella marina. So in this study, Sprague Dawley rats fed with high-cholesterol diet were given standard drug lovastatin; algal lycopene (AL) (cis/all-trans 40:60) and tomato all-trans lycopene (TL) and the following parameters were studied. Total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides were decreased significantly and the high-density lipoprotein levels were increased on treatment with AL. The activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase were found to be increased, whereas thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels were decreased in AL when compared to the drug and TL-treated rats. The activities of inflammatory marker enzymes like cyclooxygenase, 15-lipoxygenase in monocytes and myeloperoxidase, C-reactive protein and ceruloplasmin levels in serum were found to be decreased on treatment with AL. Histopathological studies revealed that lycopene from this alga could reduce fatty liver and aortic plaque when compared to the drug and TL. Algal lycopene showed very significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect in high-cholesterol fed rats. Therefore, AL from C. marina would be recommended for the treatment of hyperlipidemia.

Fruit and vegetable intake among older adults: a scoping review

Older adults are the fastest growing segment of the world population. Older adults are also at heightened risk of chronic conditions (such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer) and specific geriatric conditions (such as cognitive impairment, frailty, and falls). Research studies have examined the relationship between fruit and vegetable intake and subsequent health outcomes and the correlates of fruit and vegetable intake in the U.S. population. However, relatively few studies have specifically examined health impacts and correlates of fruit and vegetable intake among older adults, who have unique biophysical and socioeconomic circumstances. Evidence is reviewed to (1) describe findings related to consumption and chronic, geriatric, and other health outcomes among older adults and (2) describe patterns in fruit and vegetable consumption among older adults and how these patterns vary within and among populations. This review addresses specific barriers faced by older adults in obtaining and consuming fruits and vegetables in community settings. Recommendations for practice and policy are discussed.

Symptomatic atherosclerosis is associated with an altered gut metagenome

Recent findings have implicated the gut microbiota as a contributor of metabolic diseases through the modulation of host metabolism and inflammation. Atherosclerosis is associated with lipid accumulation and inflammation in the arterial wall, and bacteria have been suggested as a causative agent of this disease. Here we use shotgun sequencing of the gut metagenome to demonstrate that the genus Collinsella was enriched in patients with symptomatic atherosclerosis, defined as stenotic atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid artery leading to cerebrovascular events, whereas Roseburia and Eubacterium were enriched in healthy controls. Further characterization of the functional capacity of the metagenomes revealed that patient gut metagenomes were enriched in genes encoding peptidoglycan synthesis and depleted in phytoene dehydrogenase; patients also had reduced serum levels of β-carotene. Our findings suggest that the gut metagenome is associated with the inflammatory status of the host and patients with symptomatic atherosclerosis harbor characteristic changes in the gut metagenome.

The gut microbiota has emerged as an environmental factor that can influence the development of obesity and diabetes. Here, Karlsson et al. report compositional and functional alterations of the gut metagenome in patients with symptomatic atherosclerosis.

Serum carotenoids reduce progression of early atherosclerosis in the carotid artery wall among Eastern Finnish men

BACKGROUND

Several previous epidemiologic studies have shown that high blood levels of carotenoids may be protective against early atherosclerosis, but results have been inconsistent. We assessed the association between atherosclerotic progression, measured by intima-media thickness of the common carotid artery wall, and serum levels of carotenoids.

METHODS

We studied the effect of carotenoids on progression of early atherosclerosis in a population-based study. The association between concentrations of serum carotenoids, and intima-media thickness of the common carotid artery wall was explored in 840 middle-aged men (aged 46-65 years) from Eastern Finland. Ultrasonography of the common carotid arteries were performed at baseline and 7-year follow-up. Serum levels of carotenoids were analyzed at baseline. Changes in mean and maximum intima media thickness of carotid artery wall were related to baseline serum carotenoid levels in covariance analyses adjusted for covariates.

RESULTS

In a covariance analysis with adjustment for age, ultrasound sonographer, maximum intima media thickness, examination year, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, smoking, physical activity, serum LDL cholesterol, family history of coronary heart disease, antihypertensive medication and serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein, 7-year change in maximum intima media thickness was inversely associated with lycopene (p = 0.005), α-carotene (p = 0.002) and β-carotene (p = 0.019), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study shows that high serum concentrations of carotenoids may be protective against early atherosclerosis.

Effect of Lycopersicon esculentum extract on apoptosis in the rat cerebellum, following prenatal and postnatal exposure to an electromagnetic field

The expansion of mobile phone technology has raised concerns regarding the effect of 900-MHz electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure on the central nervous system. At present, the developing human brain is regularly exposed to mobile telephones, pre- and postnatally. Several studies have demonstrated the acute effects of EMF exposure during pre- or postnatal periods; however, the chronic effects of EMF exposure are less understood. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the chronic effects of EMF on the pre- and postnatal rat cerebellum. The control group was maintained in the same conditions as the experimental groups, without the exposure to EMF. In the EMF1 group, the rats were exposed to EMF during pre- and postnatal periods (until postnatal day 80). In the EMF2 group, the rats were also exposed to EMF pre- and postnatally; in addition, however, they were provided with a daily oral supplementation of Lycopersicon esculentum extract (∼2 g/kg). The number of caspase-3-labeled Purkinje neurons and granule cells present in the rats in the control and experimental groups were then counted. The neurodegenerative changes were studied using cresyl violet staining, and these changes were evaluated. In comparison with the control animals, the EMF1 group demonstrated a significant increase in the number of caspase-3-labeled Purkinje neurons and granule cells present in the cerebellum (P<0.001). However, in comparison with the EMF1 group, the EMF2 group exhibited significantly fewer caspase-3-labeled Purkinje neurons and granule cells in the cerebellum. In the EMF1 group, the Purkinje neurons were revealed to have undergone dark neuron degenerative changes. However, the presence of dark Purkinje neurons was reduced in the EMF2 group, compared with the EMF1 group. The results indicated that apoptosis and neurodegeneration in rats exposed to EMF during pre- and postnatal periods may be reduced with Lycopersicon esculentum extract therapy.

Serum β-carotene concentrations and the risk of congestive heart failure in men: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Fruit and vegetable intake has been associated with lower risk for cardiovascular diseases, but data on congestive heart failure (CHF) are inconsistent. The association of serum carotenoids, biomarkers reflecting fruit and vegetable intake, with the risk of CHF has not been well documented in previous studies. We therefore examined the association between carotenoid levels and the risk of CHF.

METHODS

Data were available for 1031 males aged 46 to 65 years participating in the Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study (Finland). Baseline data for the present study were collected between 1991 and 1993. The association between serum concentrations of carotenoids and the risk of CHF was examined by using Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

During the median of 17.8 follow-up years, CHF occurred in 72 patients. Age and examination year adjusted risk (hazard ratio, HR) for CHF among men within the lowest quartile of serum β-carotene was 4.08 (95% CI, 1.90-8.78, p<0.001) as compared to men in the highest quartile of serum β-carotene. After further adjustment for many potential confounders, men with the lowest quartile of β-carotene had almost 3-fold increased risk of CHF (HR=2.78, 95% CI, 1.23-6.25, p=0.014). However, serum concentrations of lycopene and α-carotene were not related to the risk of CHF.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests that low concentrations of serum β-carotene may be associated with an increased risk of CHF.

Relationship of lycopene intake and consumption of tomato products to incident CVD

Evidence for cardioprotective effects of lycopene is inconsistent. Studies of circulating lycopene generally report inverse associations with CVD risk, but studies based on lycopene intake do not. The failure of dietary studies to support the findings based on biomarkers may be due in part to misclassification of lycopene intakes. To address this potential misclassification, we used repeated measures of intake obtained over 10 years to characterise the relationship between lycopene intake and the incidence of CVD (n 314), CHD (n 171) and stroke (n 99) in the Framingham Offspring Study. Hazard ratios (HR) for incident outcomes were derived from Cox proportional hazards regression models using logarithmically transformed lycopene intake adjusted for CVD risk factors and correlates of lycopene intake. HR were interpreted as the increased risk for a 2·7-fold difference in lycopene intake, a difference approximately equal to its interquartile range. Using an average of three intake measures with a 9-year follow-up, lycopene intake was inversely associated with CVD incidence (HR 0·83, 95% CI 0·70, 0·98). Using an average of two intake measures and 11 years of follow-up, lycopene intake was inversely associated with CHD incidence (HR 0·74, 95% CI 0·58, 0·94). Lycopene intake was unrelated to stroke incidence. The present study of lycopene intake and CVD provides supporting evidence for an inverse association between lycopene and CVD risk; however, additional research is needed to determine whether lycopene or other components of tomatoes, the major dietary source of lycopene, are responsible for the observed association.