Cocoa polyphenols and inflammatory mediators

Effect of dark chocolate/ cocoa consumption on oxidative stress and inflammation in adults: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress and inflammation play critical roles in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. Dark chocolate (DC)/cocoa, as a rich source of polyphenols like flavonoids, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may confer health benefits, but findings in this context are inconsistent.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the controlled trials (CTs) that have examined the effects of DC/cocoa on oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers in adults.

SEARCH METHODS

Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, were searched for relevant studies through April 2024.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies assessed C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), P-selectin, E-selectin and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in adults were included.

DATA ANALYSIS

Based on the random-effects model, we calculated WMDs, SMDs and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Sensitivity, sub-group, meta-regression and dose-response analyses were also conducted.

RESULTS

Thirty-three eligible CTs with 1379 participants were included. All studies reported the intervention types (cocoa powder, beverages and chocolate bars) and dosage. However, sixteen studies didn't do/report testing for purity and potency by independent groups. Also, none of the studies mentioned the risk of contamination with heavy metals. Another limitation was the lack of blinding assessment in studies. DC/cocoa significantly reduced MDA (SMD: -0.69, 95 %CI: -1.17, -0.2, p = 0.005) and increased NO levels (SMD: 2.43, 95 %CI: 1.11,3.75, p < 0.001); However, it has no significant effects on the other outcomes. Greater anti-inflammatory effects occurred at higher flavonoid doses (>450 mg/day) and for shorter durations (≤4 weeks) in the non-healthy participants. Non-linear dose-response relationships between cocoa dosage and CRP level and also between flavonoid dosage and IL-6 level were observed. Based on the GRADE evaluation, just CRP and MDA results were considered as high certainty evidence and the other outcomes results were categorized as very low to moderate certainty.

CONCLUSIONS

DC/cocoa may improve systemic oxidative status and inflammation in adults. However, further studies should be performed to determine its benefits.

Variety Differentiation: Development of a CRISPR DETECTR Method for the Detection of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in Cacao (Theobroma cacao) and Almonds (Prunus dulcis)

To prevent food fraud, products can be monitored by various chemical-analytical techniques. In this study, we present a CRISPR-Cpf1 DETECTR-based assay for the differentiation of plant ingredients in sweet confectionary like fine and bulk-cocoa, or bitter and sweet almonds. To enable rapid in-field analysis, the trans-cleavage activity of the Cpf1 enzyme was used to develop a DETECTR (DNA endonuclease-targeted CRISPR trans reporter) assay for simple, highly specific fluorometric detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The endonuclease Cpf1 requires the protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) 5'-TTTV-3' for activation, but the recognition sequence is freely programmable. The SNPs were selected to alter the Cpf1 specific PAM sequence. As a result, sequences that do not carry the canonical PAM sequence are not detected and thus not cut. The optimized system was used for both raw material and processed products such as cocoa masses or marzipan with a limit of detection of 3 ng template DNA. In addition, we were able to implement the system in the context of an LFA (lateral flow assay) to serve as a basis for the development of rapid test systems.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12161-023-02500-w.

A Food-Grade Method for Enhancing the Levels of Low Molecular Weight Proanthocyanidins with Potentially High Intestinal Bioavailability

Proanthocyanidins (PACs) are a group of bioactive molecules found in a variety of plants and foods. Their bioavailability depends on their molecular size, with monomers and dimers being more bioavailable than those that have a higher polymerization degree. This study aimed to develop a method to convert high-molecular-weight PACs to low-molecular-weight ones in a grape seed extract (GSE) from Vitis vinifera L. Therefore, GSE was subjected to alkaline treatment (ATGSE), and its difference in chemical composition, compared to GSE, was evaluated using a molecular networking (MN) approach based on results obtained from HPLC-ESI HRMS/MS characterization analysis. The network analysis mainly noted the PAC cluster with about 142 PAC compounds identified. In particular, the obtained results showed a higher content of monomeric and dimeric PACs in ATGSE compared to GSE, with 58% and 49% monomers and 31% and 24% dimers, respectively. Conversely, trimeric (9%), polymeric (4%), and galloylated PACs (14%) were more abundant in GSE than in ATGSE (6%, 1%, and 4%, respectively). Moreover, in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were investigated, showing the high beneficial potential of both extracts. In conclusion, ATGSE could represent an innovative natural matrix rich in bioavailable and bioaccessible PACs for nutraceutical applications with potential beneficial properties.

Identification and Quantification of Flavonoids in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) and Antiproliferative Activity In Vitro of Four Main Components Identified

Okra is a kind of flavonoid-rich food which was reported to have a variety of health functions. Flavonoids are the major polyphenolic compounds in okra and are thought to play a role in reducing the risk of disease. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify the flavonoids composition in okra pods and explore the activity of the main flavonoids components identified on inhibiting tumor cell proliferation in vitro. Six individual flavonoids were identified by HPLC-MS/MS: quercetin-3-gentiobioside (Q3G), quercetin-3-sambubioside (Q3S), rutin, quercetin-7-glucoside (Q7G), isoquercitrin (ISO) and quercetin-3-malonylglucoside (Q3M), which were all separated well within 30 min. The analytical method was validated by the recovery of spiked samples and so on. Moreover, four main flavonoids components, namely Q3G, Q3S, ISO and Q3M, exhibited significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of NCI-N87, A375, A549 cells proliferation (25−100 μmol/L) and of HFLS-RA (200−300 μmol/L) in different levels, according to MTT method, respectively. It is demonstrated that the flavonoids components of okra exhibited a noteworthy development prospect as a possible nutraceutical dietary supplement.

Ficus vogelii methanol leaf extract ameliorates inflammation and arthritis by modulating osmotic fragility in C57BL/6J mice

The study evaluated the membrane-stabilizing potentials in red blood cells and anti-inflammatory properties in C57BL/6J mice of the methanol leaf extract of Ficus vogelii. Animals were treated orally with different doses of the extract (50, 100, 200 mg/kg) for 30 days and their blood was measured for membrane stability at different saline concentrations. Diclofenac (12.5 mg/kg) or Indomethacin (10 mg/kg) was used as standard in the anti-inflammatory studies. The mean corpuscular fragility (MCF) values and their corresponding percentage stabilization increased significantly (p≤0.05) in the treatment groups compared to the negative control. Treatment of mice with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of the extract significantly (p≤0.05) inhibited carrageenan-induced paw oedema in mice. The highest dose (200 mg/kg) showed lower anti-inflammatory activity compared to Diclofenac (12.5 mg/kg). Daily administration of the extract significantly (p≤0.05) suppressed adjuvant-induced paw arthritis by day 15 and 30 post arthritis induction. Ficus vogelii extract inhibited granuloma formation significantly. The anti-inflammatory effects of methanol leaf extract of Ficus vogelii on granuloma formation were comparable to that of Indomethacin (10 mg/kg). In summary, this study showed that the methanol leaf extract of Ficus vogelii possessed membrane-stabilizing potentials and anti-inflammatory properties, therefore, providing further proof that the leaves contain an active compound with potent anti-inflammatory activity.

Flavonoid-Like Components of Peanut Stem and Leaf Extract Promote Sleep by Decreasing Neuronal Excitability

SCOPE

Peanut stem and leaf (PSL), a traditional Chinese medicine, is widely used as a dietary supplement to improve sleep quality; however, the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, the study aims to determine whether active compounds in PSL extract exert their effects by mediating neuronal excitability.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Aqueous PSL extract (500 mg kg^-1 BW) increases the duration of total sleep (TS), slow wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement sleep (REMS) in BALB/c mice after 7 and 14 continuous days of intragastric administration. Two PSL extract components with flavonoid-like structures: 4',7-di-O-methylnaringenin (DMN, 61 µg kg^-1 BW) and 2'-O-methylisoliquiritigenin (MIL, 12 µg kg^-1 BW), show similar effects on sleep in BALB/c mice. Moreover, incubation with DMN (50 µM) and MIL (50 µM) acutely reduces voltage-gated sodium and potassium currents and suppresses the firing of evoked action potential in mouse cortical neurons, indicating the inhibition on neuronal excitability. Meanwhile, RNA-seq analysis predicts the potential regulation of voltage-gated channels, which is according with the molecular docking simulation that both MIL and DMN can bind to voltage gated sodium channels 1.2 (Na_v 1.2).

CONCLUSIONS

DMN and MIL are the active ingredients of PSL that improve sleep quality, suggesting that PSL promotes sleep by regulating the excitability of neurons.

Enriching laying hens eggs by feeding diets with different fatty acid composition and antioxidants

The current study was conducted to evaluate egg quality, egg yolk fatty acids, health-related indices and antioxidants from laying hens' eggs fed different combined vegetable by-products, rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. One hundred twenty 50 weeks-old Tetra SL laying hens were divided into three groups. They were given daily a standard diet (Control, C), a diet containing 9% rapeseed meal with 3% grapeseed meal (T1 diet), or a diet containing 9% flaxseed meal and 3% sea buckthorn meal (T2 diet). Hen production performances, egg quality, egg yolk fatty acids total polyphenols content and antioxidant capacity were determined. The T1 diet significantly reduced the egg yolk content of palmitic acid from 76.615 mg (C) to 46.843 mg (T1) and that of oleic acid from 788.13 mg (C) to 682.83 mg (T1). Feeding flaxseed and sea buckthorn meals significantly increased the egg yolk content of α-linolenic acid in T2 yolks (35.297 mg) compared with C yolks (4.752 mg) and that of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from 16.282 mg (C) to 74.918 mg (T2). The atherogenicity indices (AI) were not significantly affected, whereas the thrombogenicity indices (TI) decreased significantly (p < 0.0007) from 0.72 (C) to 0.60 (T1) and 0.66 (T2), respectively. Adding this combination of meals to the hens' diets, increased the total polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity in T1 and T2 eggs compared to C eggs. The significant enrichment of eggs with n-3 fatty acids and antioxidant capacity, as well on the health-related indices especially from T2 eggs, represents a potential functional feed ingredient in poultry feeding, to obtain eggs as functional food.

Atherosclerosis: immunopathogenesis and strategies for immunotherapy

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory condition in which atheroma accumulates within the intima of the arterial wall, is a life-threatening manifestation of cardiovascular disease, due to atheroma rupture, chronic luminal narrowing and thrombosis. Current knowledge of the role of a protective immune response in atherosclerotic lesions has provided promising opportunities to develop new immunotherapeutic strategies. In particular, Tregs exert an atheroprotective role by releasing anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10/TGF-β) and suppressing autoreactive T lymphocytes. In vivo animal experiments have shown that this can be achieved by developing vaccines that stimulate immunological tolerance to atheroma antigens. Here, we present an overview of the current knowledge of the proatherogenic immune response, and we discuss the strategies currently used as immunoregulatory therapy.

Polyphenols Modulating Effects of PD-L1/PD-1 Checkpoint and EMT-Mediated PD-L1 Overexpression in Breast Cancer

Investigating dietary polyphenolic compounds as antitumor agents are rising due to the growing evidence of the close association between immunity and cancer. Cancer cells elude immune surveillance for enhancing their progression and metastasis utilizing various mechanisms. These mechanisms include the upregulation of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) cell phenotype activation. In addition to its role in stimulating normal embryonic development, EMT has been identified as a critical driver in various aspects of cancer pathology, including carcinogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. Furthermore, EMT conversion to another phenotype, Mesenchymal-to-Epithelial Transition (MET), is crucial in developing cancer metastasis. A central mechanism in the upregulation of PD-L1 expression in various cancer types is EMT signaling activation. In breast cancer (BC) cells, the upregulated level of PD-L1 has become a critical target in cancer therapy. Various signal transduction pathways are involved in EMT-mediated PD-L1 checkpoint overexpression. Three main groups are considered potential targets in EMT development; the effectors (E-cadherin and Vimentin), the regulators (Zeb, Twist, and Snail), and the inducers that include members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). Meanwhile, the correlation between consuming flavonoid-rich food and the lower risk of cancers has been demonstrated. In BC, polyphenols were found to downregulate PD-L1 expression. This review highlights the effects of polyphenols on the EMT process by inhibiting mesenchymal proteins and upregulating the epithelial phenotype. This multifunctional mechanism could hold promises in the prevention and treating breast cancer.

Antioxidative and Immunomodulatory Potential of the Endemic French Guiana Wild Cocoa "Guiana"

Guiana is a little-known and endemic variety of cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.), native to French Guiana. No data were available regarding its chemical composition and biological properties; therefore, a study was necessary, using Forastero as a reference. To exemplify biological activities of the cacao species, cocoa extracts were evaluated by antioxidant (DPPH, FRAP, ORAC) and anti-inflammatory assays. Our results showed that raw Guiana presented equivalent DPPH and FRAP activities, but a 1.3-fold higher antioxidant activity (1097 ± 111.8 μM ET/g DM) than Forastero (838.5 ± 67.8 μM ET/g DM) in ORAC assay. Furthermore, the impact of fermentation (under four conditions: unfermented, two days, four days and six days of fermentation) on Guiana cocoa beans composition and health properties was also studied. Indeed, fermentation, a key step necessary to obtain the taste and color of chocolate, is generally known to alter bean composition and modulate its health benefits. At six days, the fermentation process led to a nearly 25% lower antioxidative capacity in various assays. Moreover, in inflammation-induced macrophage assays, Guiana and Forastero unfermented extracts induced a 112% stimulation in TNF-α production, and a 56.8% inhibition of IL-6 production. Fermentation altered the cocoa composition by diminishing bioactive compounds, which could be responsible for these biological activities. Indeed, after six days of fermentation, compounds decreased from 614.1 ± 39.3 to 332.3 ± 29 mg/100 g DM for epicatechin, from 254.1 ± 14.8 to 129.5 ± 20.7 mg/100 g DM for procyanidin B2 and from 178.4 ± 23.5 to 81.7 ± 2.9 mg/100 g DM for procyanidin C1. The similar composition and the equivalent or higher antioxidant activity of Guiana leads us to propose it as an alternative to Forastero.

Findings in redox biology: From H2O2 to oxidative stress

My interest in biological chemistry proceeded from enzymology in vitro to the study of physiological chemistry in vivo Investigating biological redox reactions, I identified hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a normal constituent of aerobic life in eukaryotic cells. This finding led to developments that recognized the essential role of H2O2 in metabolic redox control. Further research included studies on GSH, toxicological aspects (the concept of "redox cycling"), biochemical pharmacology (ebselen), nutritional biochemistry and micronutrients (selenium, carotenoids, flavonoids), and the concept of "oxidative stress." Today, we recognize that oxidative stress is two-sided. It has its positive side in physiology and health in redox signaling, "oxidative eustress," whereas at higher intensity, there is damage to biomolecules with potentially deleterious outcome in pathophysiology and disease, "oxidative distress." Reflecting on these developments, it is gratifying to witness the enormous progress in redox biology brought about by the science community in recent years.

Proanthocyanidins: Components, Pharmacokinetics and Biomedical Properties

Proanthocyanidins (PAs) are a group of polyphenols enriched in plant and human food. In recent decades, epidemiological studies have upheld the direct relationship between PA consumption and health benefits; therefore, studies on PAs have become a research hotspot. Although the oral bioavailability of PAs is quite low, pharmacokinetics data revealed that some small molecules and colonic microbial metabolites of PAs could be absorbed and exert their health beneficial effects. The pharmacological effects of PAs mainly include anti-oxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammation, antimicrobial, cardiovascular protection, neuroprotection, and metabolism-regulation behaviors. Moreover, current toxicological studies show that PAs have no observable toxicity to humans. This review summarizes the resources, extraction, structures, pharmacokinetics, pharmacology, and toxicology of PAs and discusses the limitations of current studies. Areas for further research are also proposed.

(-)-Epicatechin and the comorbidities of obesity

Obesity has major adverse consequences on human health contributing to the development of, among others, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, altered behavior and cognition, and cancer. Changes in dietary habits and lifestyle could contribute to mitigate the development and/or progression of these pathologies. This review will discuss current evidence on the beneficial actions of the flavan-3-ol (-)-epicatechin (EC) on obesity-associated comorbidities. These benefits can be in part explained through EC's capacity to mitigate several common events underlying the development of these pathologies, including: i) high circulating levels of glucose, lipids and endotoxins; ii) chronic systemic inflammation; iii) tissue endoplasmic reticulum and oxidative stress; iv) insulin resistance; v) mitochondria dysfunction and vi) dysbiosis. The currently known underlying mechanisms and cellular targets of EC's beneficial effects are discussed. While, there is limited evidence from human studies supplementing with pure EC, other studies involving cocoa supplementation in humans, pure EC in rodents and in vitro studies, support a potential beneficial action of EC on obesity-associated comorbidities. This evidence also stresses the need of further research in the field, which would contribute to the development of human dietary strategies to mitigate the adverse consequences of obesity.

Cocoa Bean Shell-A By-Product with Nutritional Properties and Biofunctional Potential

Cocoa bean shells (CBS) are one of the main by-products from the transformation of cocoa beans, representing 10%‒17% of the total cocoa bean weight. Hence, their disposal could lead to environmental and economic issues. As CBS could be a source of nutrients and interesting compounds, such as fiber (around 50% w/w), cocoa volatile compounds, proteins, minerals, vitamins, and a large spectrum of polyphenols, CBS may be a valuable ingredient/additive for innovative and functional foods. In fact, the valorization of food by-products within the frame of a circular economy is becoming crucial due to economic and environmental reasons. The aim of this review is to look over the chemical and nutritional composition of CBS and to revise the several uses that have been proposed in order to valorize this by-product for food, livestock feed, or industrial usages, but also for different medical applications. A special focus will be directed to studies that have reported the biofunctional potential of CBS for human health, such as antibacterial, antiviral, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, or neuroprotective activities, benefits for the cardiovascular system, or an anti-inflammatory capacity.

Assessment of phytochemical compounds in functional couscous: Determination of free and bound phenols and alkylresorcinols

The aim of this study was to evaluate the content of free and bound phenols and alkylresorcinols in functional couscous enriched with barley coarse fraction obtained by air classification. Two different levels of enriched barley flour (20 and 30%) were used for the formulation of couscous and they were compared with a control couscous made with 100% of semolina. HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS was used to determine the phenolic composition in couscous samples. Total free phenolic compounds content in control couscous was 182 μg/100 g d.m. This amount increases significantly when coarse barley flour is added reaching value of 2273 μg/100 g d.m. and 2978 μg/100 g d.m. when 20 and 30% of barley coarse fraction was used, respectively. Moreover, the main free phenolic compounds in enriched barley samples are represented by flavan-3-ols. Bound phenols ranged from 5242 μg/100 g d.m. for control couscous to 27,092 μg/100 g d.m. for couscous with 30% of barley coarse fraction with a strong prevalence of phenolic acids. Finally, regarding alkylresorcinol compounds, they ranged from 1.01 mg/g d.m. for control couscous to 2.46 mg/g d.m. for couscous with 30% of barley coarse fraction. In conclusion, on the basis of obtained results, barley coarse fraction can be considered a good ingredient to develop functional couscous naturally enriched of phenolic compounds and alkylresorcinols.

The Postprandial Appearance of Features of Cardiometabolic Risk: Acute Induction and Prevention by Nutrients and Other Dietary Substances

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of diets, food, and food components that affect postprandial inflammation, endothelial function, and oxidative stress, which are related to cardiometabolic risk. A high-energy meal, rich in saturated fat and sugars, induces the transient appearance of a series of metabolic, signaling and physiological dysregulations or dysfunctions, including oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, which are directly related to the amplitude of postprandial plasma triglycerides and glucose. Low-grade inflammation and endothelial dysfunction are also known to cluster together with insulin resistance, a third risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and type-II diabetes, thus making a considerable contribution to cardiometabolic risk. Because of the marked relevance of the postprandial model to nutritional pathophysiology, many studies have investigated whether adding various nutrients and other substances to such a challenge meal might mitigate the onset of these adverse effects. Some foods (e.g., nuts, berries, and citrus), nutrients (e.g., l-arginine), and other substances (various polyphenols) have been widely studied. Reports of favorable effects in the postprandial state have concerned plasma markers for systemic or vascular pro-inflammatory conditions, the activation of inflammatory pathways in plasma monocytes, vascular endothelial function (mostly assessed using physiological criteria), and postprandial oxidative stress. Although the literature is fragmented, this topic warrants further study using multiple endpoints and markers to investigate whether the interesting candidates identified might prevent or limit the postprandial appearance of critical features of cardiometabolic risk.

Effect of Cocoa Products and Its Polyphenolic Constituents on Exercise Performance and Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage and Inflammation: A Review of Clinical Trials

In recent years, the consumption of chocolate and, in particular, dark chocolate has been "rehabilitated" due to its high content of cocoa antioxidant polyphenols. Although it is recognized that regular exercise improves energy metabolism and muscle performance, excessive or unaccustomed exercise may induce cell damage and impair muscle function by triggering oxidative stress and tissue inflammation. The aim of this review was to revise the available data from literature on the effects of cocoa polyphenols on exercise-associated tissue damage and impairment of exercise performance. To this aim, PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched with the following keywords: "intervention studies", "cocoa polyphenols", "exercise training", "inflammation", "oxidative stress", and "exercise performance". We selected thirteen randomized clinical trials on cocoa ingestion that involved a total of 200 well-trained athletes. The retrieved data indicate that acute, sub-chronic, and chronic cocoa polyphenol intake may reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress but not inflammation, while mixed results are observed in terms of exercise performance and recovery. The interpretation of available results on the anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities of cocoa polyphenols remains questionable, likely due to the variety of physiological networks involved. Further experimental studies are mandatory to clarify the role of cocoa polyphenol supplementation in exercise-mediated inflammation.

[SEA/SEMERGEN consensus document 2019: Dietary recommendations in the prevention of cardiovascular disease]

The current paradigm in the nutrition sciences states that the basic nutritional unit is not the nutrients, but the foods that contain them (oils, nuts, dairy products, eggs, red or processed meats, etc.). These act as a food matrix in which the different nutrients synergistically or antagonistically modulate their effects on the various metabolic pathways determining health and disease. Food is not based on nutrients or isolated foods but on complex mixtures of one and the other that are part of a specific food pattern, a concept that has been targeted as the most pertinent to evaluate the associations between nutrition and health or disease. This document presents a summary of the available evidence on the relationship between different foods and cardiovascular health, and offers simple recommendations to be implemented in the dietary advice offered by the health professional.

SEA/SEMERGEN consensus document 2019: Dietary recommendations in the prevention of cardiovascular disease

The current paradigm in the nutrition sciences states that the basic nutritional unit is not the nutrients, but the foods that contain them (oils, nuts, dairy products, eggs, red or processed meats, etc.). These act as a food matrix in which the different nutrients synergistically or antagonistically modulate their effects on the various metabolic pathways determining health and disease. Food is not based on nutrients or isolated foods but on complex mixtures of one and the other that are part of a specific food pattern, a concept that has been targeted as the most pertinent to evaluate the associations between nutrition and health or disease. This document presents a summary of the available evidence on the relationship between different foods and cardiovascular health, and offers simple recommendations to be implemented in the dietary advice offered by the health professional.

Cardioprotective Mechanisms of Cocoa

Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of deaths in highly developed countries. Dietetic interventions that involve recommendations for consumption of products with a confirmed health-improving action are an important aspect of prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Cocoa is an alimentary product with significant cardioprotective potential due to its high content of bioactive compounds. The aim of the present study was to review the most recent literature concerning the effectiveness and mechanisms of action of compounds contained in cocoa with regard to selected cardiovascular risk factors and cardiometabolic markers. Study results indicate that cocoa consumption, especially in the form of dark chocolate with high flavonoid content, may be a good strategy to diminish cardiovascular risk due to its beneficial effect on platelet aggregation, decreasing blood pressure, diminishing dyslipidemia, and decreasing blood plasma glucose concentration. Many studies have shown that cocoa-derived flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and also play a significant role in preventing insulin resistance. However, in order to completely confirm the potential cardiovascular benefits, it is necessary to conduct larger and longer studies, also with regard to potential dangers associated with long-term consumption of large amounts of flavonoids and determination of a safe and effective dose. Key teaching points Cocoa consumption may be a good strategy in diminishing cardiovascular risk. Beneficial effects on platelet aggregation, blood pressure, dyslipidemia, glycemia, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity are observed. There is a need to conduct larger and longer studies to determine a safe and effective dose of cocoa flavonoids.

Biological activities of (-)-epicatechin and (-)-epicatechin-containing foods: Focus on cardiovascular and neuropsychological health

Recent studies have suggested that certain (-)-epicatechin-containing foods have a blood pressure-lowering capacity. The mechanisms underlying (-)-epicatechin action may help prevent oxidative damage and endothelial dysfunction, which have both been associated with hypertension and certain brain disorders. Moreover, (-)-epicatechin has been shown to modify metabolic profile, blood's rheological properties, and to cross the blood-brain barrier. Thus, (-)-epicatechin causes multiple actions that may provide unique synergy beneficial for cardiovascular and neuropsychological health. This review summarises the current knowledge on the biological actions of (-)-epicatechin, related to cardiovascular and brain functions, which may play a remarkable role in human health and longevity.

Cardioprotection and natural polyphenols: an update of clinical and experimental studies

Mechanisms involved in ischemia–reperfusion injury.

In Vivo and In Vitro Evaluation of Pharmacological Potentials of Secondary Bioactive Metabolites of Dalbergia candenatensis Leaves

Background. Dalbergia species has wide range of secondary metabolites and is traditionally used in treatment of painful micturition, swelling, and leprosy and as blood tonic. The study evaluates membrane stabilizing, anticoagulant, analgesic, cytotoxic, subacute anti-inflammatory, and depression potentials of D. candenatensis leaves metabolites. Methods. Membrane stabilizing activity was evaluated by hypotonic induced hemolysis assay, whereas anticoagulant activity is done through extrinsic pathway by measuring prothrombin time. Analgesic action, cytotoxic effect, and subacute anti-inflammatory activity were determined by acetic acid induced writhing model, brine shrimp lethality bioassay, and formaldehyde induced model, respectively. Depression activity was measured by the Open Field, Hole Cross, Hole Board, and thiopentone induced sleeping time measuring methods. Results. D. candenatensis contains phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin, quantified as 416.25 mg, 330.00 mg, and 432.22 mg Gallic Acid Equivalent/100 g of dry extract, respectively. Extract showed maximum inhibition of writhe, hemolysis, and edema, approximate to 57.14%, 36.62%, and 34.1%, respectively. LC₅₀ value for nauplii was 151.499 μg/ml. Mean prothrombin time was approximate to 31.0 ± 2.31 seconds at 1.0 mg/ml. Extract showed depression activity, and maximum sleeping time was noted to be about 141 minutes. Conclusion. D. candenatensis leaves show dose dependent membrane stabilizing, anticoagulant, depression, analgesic, moderate cytotoxic, and subacute anti-inflammatory activities.

Effect of processing on phenolic acids composition and radical scavenging capacity of barley pasta

Phenolic acids, total phenolics content and DPPH radical scavenging capacity in raw ingredients, fresh and dried spaghetti, and in uncooked and cooked spaghetti were evaluated and compared with semolina spaghetti as a reference. Ferulic acid was the major phenolic acid found in the free and bound phenolic extracts in all the investigated pasta samples. The addition of barley flour into pasta at incorporation levels of 30, 50 and 100% increased phenolic acids and total phenolics content. Pasta processing did not significantly affect the total phenolics content and free radical scavenging capacity, but a significant reduction in total phenolic acids measured by HPLC was found. Drying process differently affected individual phenolic compounds in the free and bound fractions, and thus, the total phenolic acids content. Free vanillic, caffeic and p-coumaric acids did not significantly change, while p-hydroxybenzoic and ferulic acids of the free extracts showed higher values compared to the corresponding fresh pasta. Cooking did not greatly affect total phenolic acids, more leading to conserving free and bound phenolic compounds.

Polyphenols from Root, Tubercles and Grains Cropped in Brazil: Chemical and Nutritional Characterization and Their Effects on Human Health and Diseases

Throughout evolution, plants have developed the ability to produce secondary phenolic metabolites, which are important for their interactions with the environment, reproductive strategies and defense mechanisms. These (poly)phenolic compounds are a heterogeneous group of natural antioxidants found in vegetables, cereals and leguminous that exert beneficial and protective actions on human health, playing roles such as enzymatic reaction inhibitors and cofactors, toxic chemicals scavengers and biochemical reaction substrates, increasing the absorption of essential nutrients and selectively inhibiting deleterious intestinal bacteria. Polyphenols present in some commodity grains, such as soy and cocoa beans, as well as in other vegetables considered security foods for developing countries, including cassava, taro and beetroot, all of them cropped in Brazil, have been identified and quantified in order to point out their bioavailability and the adequate dietary intake to promote health. The effects of the flavonoid and non-flavonoid compounds present in these vegetables, their metabolism and their effects on preventing chronic and degenerative disorders like cancers, diabetes, osteoporosis, cardiovascular and neurological diseases are herein discussed based on recent epidemiological studies.

Polyphenolic Nutrients in Cancer Chemoprevention and Metastasis: Role of the Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal (EMT) Pathway

The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has received significant interest as a novel target in cancer prevention, metastasis, and resistance. The conversion of cells from an epithelial, adhesive state to a mesenchymal, motile state is one of the key events in the development of cancer metastasis. Polyphenols have been reported to be efficacious in the prevention of cancer and reversing cancer progression. Recently, the antimetastatic efficacy of polyphenols has been reported, thereby expanding the potential use of these compounds beyond chemoprevention. Polyphenols may affect EMT pathways, which are involved in cancer metastasis; for example, polyphenols increase the levels of epithelial markers, but downregulate the mesenchymal markers. Polyphenols also alter the level of expression and functionality of important proteins in other signaling pathways that control cellular mesenchymal characteristics. However, the specific proteins that are directly affected by polyphenols in these signaling pathways remain to be elucidated. The aim of this review is to analyze current evidence regarding the role of polyphenols in attenuating EMT-mediated cancer progression and metastasis. We also discuss the role of the most important polyphenol subclasses and members of the polyphenols in reversing metastasis and targeting EMT. Finally, limitations and future directions to improve our understanding in this field are discussed.

Review: Health Effects of Cocoa Flavonoids

Flavonoids are phenolic substances widely found in fruits and vegetables. Many epidemiological studies associate the ingestion of flavonoids with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer. These effects are due to the physiological activity of flavonoids in the reduction of oxidative stress, inhibiting low-density lipoproteins (LDL) oxidation and platelet aggregation, acting as vasodilators in blood vessels, inhibiting the adherence of monocytes to the vascular endothelium, promoting fibrinolysis, acting as immunomodulators and anti-inflammatory agents and as inhibitors in the different phases of tumour process. Cocoa is an important source of polyphenols, which comprise 12-18% of its total weight on dry basis; the major phenolic compounds are epicatechin, proanthocyanidins and cate-chin. The levels of flavonoids contained are higher than the ones founds in apples, onions or wine, foods known for their high amount of phenolic compounds. Cocoa and cocoa products are important sources of flavonoids in our diet. In the Dutch population chocolate contributes up to 20% of the total flavonoid intake in adults, and in children the percentage is even higher. The bioavailability of these compounds depends on other food constituents, and their interaction with the food matrix. This article reviews current evidence on the health effects of cocoa flavonoids in our diet. The compiled data supports the premise that the consumption of cocoa flavonoids is beneficial to human health.

Impact of Cocoa Consumption on Inflammation Processes-A Critical Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Cocoa flavanols have strong anti-inflammatory properties in vitro. If these also occur in vivo, cocoa consumption may contribute to the prevention or treatment of diseases mediated by chronic inflammation. This critical review judged the evidence for such effects occurring after cocoa consumption. Methods: A literature search in Medline was performed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effects of cocoa consumption on inflammatory biomarkers. Results: Thirty-three RCTs were included, along with 9 bolus and 24 regular consumption studies. Acute cocoa consumption decreased adhesion molecules and 4-series leukotrienes in serum, nuclear factor κB activation in leukocytes, and the expression of CD62P and CD11b on monocytes and neutrophils. In healthy subjects and in patients with cardiovascular diseases, most regular consumption trials did not find any changes except for a decreased number of endothelial microparticles, but several cellular and humoral inflammation markers decreased in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes and impaired fasting glucose. Conclusions: Little evidence exists that consumption of cocoa-rich food may reduce inflammation, probably by lowering the activation of monocytes and neutrophils. The efficacy seems to depend on the extent of the basal inflammatory burden. Further well-designed RCTs with inflammation as the primary outcome are needed, focusing on specific markers of leukocyte activation and considering endothelial microparticles as marker of vascular inflammation.

The inhibitory activity of cocoa phenolic extract against pro-inflammatory mediators secretion induced by lipopolysaccharide in RAW 264.7 cells

Cocoa is a rich source of polyphenols that has been traditionally used as the treatment of several types of inflammation related disease. The response to inflammation comprises the consecutive release of mediators and the enlistment of circulating leukocytes, such as macrophages. Currently, Cocoa-derived polyphenolics have shown anti-inflammatory effects in vivo, but the therapeutic benefits in vitro remain unclear. Therefore, in this study, the effect of cocoa polyphenolic extract (CPE) on RAW 264.7 macrophage cells sensitized by lipopolysaccharide as in vitro inflammatory model was investigated. The anti-inflammatory activity of CPE was assessed by measuring its ability to inhibit the pro-inflammatory enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and the pro-inflammatory mediators prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). The results show that CPE significantly inhibits 5-LOX activity (p < 0.01). In addition, CPE dose-dependently suppressed the production of PGE₂, ROS, NO and TNF-α in RAW 264.7 cells. These data suggest that CPE may be used for the treatment of inflammation and it’s related-diseases.

Effect of Cocoa and Its Flavonoids on Biomarkers of Inflammation: Studies of Cell Culture, Animals and Humans

Chronic inflammation has been identified as a necessary step to mediate atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease and as a relevant stage in the onset and progression of several types of cancer. Considerable attention has recently been focused on the identification of dietary bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory activities as an alternative natural source for prevention of inflammation-associated diseases. The remarkable capacity of cocoa flavanols as antioxidants, as well as to modulate signaling pathways involved in cellular processes, such as inflammation, metabolism and proliferation, has encouraged research on this type of polyphenols as useful bioactive compounds for nutritional prevention of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Data from numerous studies suggest that cocoa and cocoa-derived flavanols can effectively modify the inflammatory process, and thus potentially provide a benefit to individuals with elevated risk factors for atherosclerosis/cardiovascular pathology and cancer. The present overview will focus on the most recent findings about the effects of cocoa, its main constituents and cocoa derivatives on selected biomarkers of the inflammatory process in cell culture, animal models and human cohorts.

The content of polyphenolic compounds in cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao L.), depending on variety, growing region, and processing operations: a review

Polyphenols form the largest group of compounds among natural antioxidants, which largely affect the overall antioxidant and anti-free radical activity of cocoa beans. The qualitative and quantitative composition of individual fractions of polyphenolic compounds, even within one species, is very diverse and depends on many factors, mainly on the area of cocoa trees cultivation, bean maturity, climatic conditions during growth, and the harvest season and storage time after harvest. Thermal processing of cocoa beans and cocoa derivative products at relatively high temperatures may in addition to favorable physicochemical, microbiological, and organoleptic changes result in a decrease of polyphenols concentration. Technological processing of cocoa beans negatively affects the content of polyphenolic compounds.

Assessment of flavanol stereoisomers and caffeine and theobromine content in commercial chocolates

Assessment of the flavanol composition of 41 commercial chocolates was by HPLC-DAD. Among individual flavonols ranged from 0.095 to 3.264mgg(-1), epicatechin was the predominant flavanol accounting for 32.9%. Contrary to catechin, epicatechin was a reliable predictive value of the polyphenol content. Conversely the percentage of theobromine used as a proxy measure for nonfat cocoa solids (NFCS) was not a good predictor of epicatechin or flavanol content. In a further chiral analysis, the naturally occurring forms of cocoa flavanols, (-)-epicatechin and (+)-catechin, was determined joint the occurrence of (+)-epicatechin and (-)-catechin due to the epimerization reactions produced in chocolate manufacture. (-)-Epicatechin, the most bioactive compound and predominant form accounted of 93%. However, no positive correlation was found with% cocoa solids, the most significant quality parameter.

Cocoa agronomy, quality, nutritional, and health aspects

The history of cocoa and chocolate including the birth and the expansion of the chocolate industry was described. Recent developments in the industry and cocoa economy were briefly depicted. An overview of the classification of cacao as well as studies on phenotypic and genetic diversity was presented. Cocoa agronomic practices including traditional and modern propagation techniques were reviewed. Nutrition-related health benefits derived from cocoa consumption were listed and widely reviewed. The specific action of cocoa antioxidants was compared to those of teas and wines. Effects of adding milk to chocolate and chocolate drinks versus bioavailability of cocoa polyphenols were discussed. Finally, flavor, sensory, microbiological, and toxicological aspects of cocoa consumption were presented.

A randomized controlled trial of green tea catechins in protection against ultraviolet radiation-induced cutaneous inflammation

BACKGROUND

Safe systemic protection from the health hazards of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in sunlight is desirable. Green tea is consumed globally and is reported to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may be mediated through the impact on cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways. Recent data suggest that green tea catechins (GTCs) reduce acute UVR effects, but human trials examining their photoprotective potential are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

We performed a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to examine whether GTCs protect against clinical, histologic, and biochemical indicators of UVR-induced inflammation.

DESIGN

Healthy adults (aged 18-65 y, phototypes I-II) were randomly allocated to 1350 mg encapsulated green tea extract (540 mg GTC) with 50 mg vitamin C or placebo twice daily for 3 mo. Impact on skin erythema, dermal leukocytic infiltration, and concentrations of proinflammatory eicosanoids was assessed after solar-simulated UVR challenge, and subject compliance was determined through assay of urinary GTC metabolite epigallocatechin glucuronide.

RESULTS

Volunteers were assigned to the active (n = 25) or the placebo (n = 25) group. After supplementation, median (IQR) sunburn threshold (minimal erythema dose) was 28 (20-28) and 20 (20-28) mJ/cm(2) in the active and placebo groups, respectively (nonsignificant), with no difference in AUC analysis for measured erythema index after a geometric series of 10 UVR doses. Skin immunohistochemistry showed increased neutrophil and CD3(+) T-lymphocyte numbers post-UVR in both groups (P < 0.01) with no statistically significant differences between groups after supplementation. Cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase metabolites prostaglandin E2 (vasodilator) and 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoicacid (chemoattractant), respectively, increased after UVR (P < 0.05), with no differences between supplementation groups.

CONCLUSION

Oral GTC (1080 mg/d) with vitamin C over 3 mo did not significantly reduce skin erythema, leukocyte infiltration, or eicosanoid response to UVR inflammatory challenge. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01032031.

The mechanisms of action of flavonoids in the brain: Direct versus indirect effects

The projected increase in the incidence of dementia in the population highlights the urgent need for a more comprehensive understanding of how different aspects of lifestyle, in particular exercise and diet, may affect neural function and consequent cognitive performance throughout the life course. In this regard, flavonoids, found in a variety of fruits, vegetables and derived beverages, have been identified as a group of promising bioactive compounds capable of influencing different aspects of brain function, including cerebrovascular blood flow and synaptic plasticity, both resulting in improvements in learning and memory in mammalian species. However, the precise mechanisms by which flavonoids exert these actions are yet to be fully established, although accumulating data indicate an ability to interact with neuronal receptors and kinase signaling pathways which are key to neuronal activation and communication and synaptic strengthening. Alternatively or concurrently, there is also compelling evidence derived from human clinical studies suggesting that flavonoids can positively affect peripheral and cerebrovascular blood flow, which may be an indirect effective mechanism by which dietary flavonoids can impact on brain health and cognition. The current review examines the beneficial effects of flavonoids on both human and animal brain function and attempts to address and link direct and indirect actions of flavonoids and their derivatives within the central nervous system (CNS).

Dietary phytochemicals alter epigenetic events and signaling pathways for inhibition of metastasis cascade: phytoblockers of metastasis cascade

Cancer metastasis is a multistep process in which a cancer cell spreads from the site of the primary lesion, passes through the circulatory system, and establishes a secondary tumor at a new nonadjacent organ or part. Inhibition of cancer progression by dietary phytochemicals (DPs) offers significant promise for reducing the incidence and mortality of cancer. Consumption of DPs in the diet has been linked to a decrease in the rate of metastatic cancer in a number of preclinical animal models and human epidemiological studies. DPs have been reported to modulate the numerous biological events including epigenetic events (noncoding micro-RNAs, histone modification, and DNA methylation) and multiple signaling transduction pathways (Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Sonic hedgehog, COX-2, EGFR, MAPK-ERK, JAK-STAT, Akt/PI3K/mTOR, NF-κB, AP-1, etc.), which can play a key role in regulation of metastasis cascade. Extensive studies have also been performed to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying antimetastatic activity of DPs, with results indicating that these DPs have significant inhibitory activity at nearly every step of the metastatic cascade. DPs have anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis and by inhibiting cell growth, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. Growing evidence has also shown that these natural agents potentiate the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy through the regulation of multiple signaling pathways. In this review, we discuss the variety of molecular mechanisms by which DPs regulate metastatic cascade and highlight the potentials of these DPs as promising therapeutic inhibitors of cancer.

From inflammaging to healthy aging by dietary lifestyle choices: is epigenetics the key to personalized nutrition?

The progressively older population in developed countries is reflected in an increase in the number of people suffering from age-related chronic inflammatory diseases such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes, heart and lung diseases, cancer, osteoporosis, arthritis, and dementia. The heterogeneity in biological aging, chronological age, and aging-associated disorders in humans have been ascribed to different genetic and environmental factors (i.e., diet, pollution, stress) that are closely linked to socioeconomic factors. The common denominator of these factors is the inflammatory response. Chronic low-grade systemic inflammation during physiological aging and immunosenescence are intertwined in the pathogenesis of premature aging also defined as ‘inflammaging.’ The latter has been associated with frailty, morbidity, and mortality in elderly subjects. However, it is unknown to what extent inflammaging or longevity is controlled by epigenetic events in early life. Today, human diet is believed to have a major influence on both the development and prevention of age-related diseases. Most plant-derived dietary phytochemicals and macro- and micronutrients modulate oxidative stress and inflammatory signaling and regulate metabolic pathways and bioenergetics that can be translated into stable epigenetic patterns of gene expression. Therefore, diet interventions designed for healthy aging have become a hot topic in nutritional epigenomic research. Increasing evidence has revealed that complex interactions between food components and histone modifications, DNA methylation, non-coding RNA expression, and chromatin remodeling factors influence the inflammaging phenotype and as such may protect or predispose an individual to many age-related diseases. Remarkably, humans present a broad range of responses to similar dietary challenges due to both genetic and epigenetic modulations of the expression of target proteins and key genes involved in the metabolism and distribution of the dietary constituents. Here, we will summarize the epigenetic actions of dietary components, including phytochemicals, and macro- and micronutrients as well as metabolites, that can attenuate inflammaging. We will discuss the challenges facing personalized nutrition to translate highly variable interindividual epigenetic diet responses to potential individual health benefits/risks related to aging disease.

Review: The potential of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) as a vehicle for iron biofortification

Common beans are a staple food and the major source of iron for populations in Eastern Africa and Latin America. Bean iron concentration is high and can be further increased by biofortification. A major constraint to bean iron biofortification is low iron absorption, attributed to inhibitory compounds such as phytic acid (PA) and polyphenol(s) (PP). We have evaluated the usefulness of the common bean as a vehicle for iron biofortification. High iron concentrations and wide genetic variability have enabled plant breeders to develop high iron bean varieties (up to 10 mg/100 g). PA concentrations in beans are high and tend to increase with iron biofortification. Short-term human isotope studies indicate that iron absorption from beans is low, PA is the major inhibitor, and bean PP play a minor role. Multiple composite meal studies indicate that decreasing the PA level in the biofortified varieties substantially increases iron absorption. Fractional iron absorption from composite meals was 4%–7% in iron deficient women; thus the consumption of 100 g biofortified beans/day would provide about 30%–50% of their daily iron requirement. Beans are a good vehicle for iron biofortification, and regular high consumption would be expected to help combat iron deficiency (ID).

Chocolate consumption and risk of diabetes mellitus in the Physicians' Health Study

BACKGROUND

Previous studies reported beneficial effects of cocoa or chocolate on insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and inflammation, which are important risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). However, it is unclear whether chocolate consumption is associated with risk of DM.

OBJECTIVE

We tested the hypothesis that chocolate consumption is inversely associated with incident DM in the Physicians' Health Study (PHS).

DESIGN

We prospectively analyzed data on 18,235 PHS participants who were free of DM at baseline (1997-2001). Chocolate consumption was obtained from a baseline food-frequency questionnaire. Incident DM was ascertained via annual follow-up questionnaires and validated in a subsample by a review of medical records. We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate HRs and 95% CIs of DM.

RESULTS

The mean (±SD) age at baseline was 66.3 ± 9.2 y. During a mean follow up of 9.2 y, 1123 men (6.2%) developed DM. For self-reported chocolate consumption of none, 1-3 servings/mo, 1 serving/wk, and ≥2 servings/wk, multivariable-adjusted HRs (95% CIs) of DM adjusted for lifestyle, clinical, and dietary risk factors including total energy intake were 1.00 (referent), 0.93 (0.79, 1.09), 0.86 (0.72, 1.04), and 0.83 (0.69, 0.99), respectively (P-trend = 0.047). In secondary analyses, the inverse association of chocolate consumption and risk of DM was slightly stronger in subjects without a history of cardiovascular disease or heart failure (P-trend = 0.023). In addition, both age and BMI modified the chocolate-DM relation (P < 0.05 each).

CONCLUSION

Our data support an inverse relation of chocolate intake with incident DM, which appears only to apply in younger and normal-body weight men after controlling for comprehensive life styles including total energy consumption.

Monomeric and oligomeric flavan-3-ols and antioxidant activity of leaves from different Laurus sp

Flavon-3-ols ofL. nobilisL.,L. azorica, andL. novocanariensisleaves were analysed by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS.

Deleterious effects of maternal ingestion of cocoa upon fetal ductus arteriosus in late pregnancy

Cocoa powder has twice more antioxidants than red wine and three times more than green tea. Ten percent of its weight is made up of flavonoids. Cocoa has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating cyclooxigenase-2 receptors expression in the endothelium and enhancing nitric oxide bioavailability. There are evidences that while polyphenols ingestion have cardioprotective effects in the adult, it may have deleterious effect on the fetus if ingested by the mother on the third trimester of pregnancy, causing intrauterine fetal ductus arteriosus (DA) constriction. Polyphenols present in many foods and their anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities have been shown to be as or more powerful than those of indomethacin. These effects are dependent on the inhibition of modulation of the arachidonic acid and the synthesis of prostaglandins, especially E-2, which is responsible for fetal DA patency. So, we hypothesized that this same mechanism is responsible for the harmful effect of polyphenol-rich foods, such as cocoa, upon the fetal DA after maternal intake of such substances in the third trimester of pregnancy, thereby rising the perspective of a note of caution for pregnant women diet.

Cocoa bioactive compounds: significance and potential for the maintenance of skin health

Cocoa has a rich history in human use. Skin is prone to the development of several diseases, and the mechanisms in the pathogenesis of aged skin are still poorly understood. However, a growing body of evidence from clinical and bench research has begun to provide scientific validation for the use of cocoa-derived phytochemicals as an effective approach for skin protection. Although the specific molecular and cellular mechanisms of the beneficial actions of cocoa phytochemicals remain to be elucidated, this review will provide an overview of the current literature emphasizing potential cytoprotective pathways modulated by cocoa and its polyphenolic components. Moreover, we will summarize in vivo studies showing that bioactive compounds of cocoa may have a positive impact on skin health.

Inhibition of myeloperoxidase activity by the alkaloids of Peganum harmala L. (Zygophyllaceae)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Seeds and aerial parts of Peganum harmala L. are widely used in Algeria as anti-inflammatory remedies. Evaluation of Peganum harmala total alkaloids extracts and pure β-carboline compounds as an anti-inflammatory treatment by the inhibition of an enzyme key of inflammatory, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and HPLC quantification of the alkaloids from the different parts of plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MPO inhibition was tested using taurine chloramine test. The inhibition of LDL oxidation induced by MPO was carried out. The molecular docking analysis of Peganum harmala alkaloids on MPO was performed using the Glide XP docking protocol and scoring function and the redox potential of alkaloids was determined using an Epsilon potentiostat. The concentration of harmala alkaloids was determined using HPLC analysis.

RESULTS

The HPLC profiling of the active total alkaloids indicates that β-carboline e.g. harmine, harmaline, harmane, harmol and harmalol are major components. As β-carbolines resemble tryptamine, of which derivatives are efficient inhibitors of MPO, the harmala alkaloids were tested for their activity on this enzyme. Total alkaloids of the seeds and of the aerial parts strongly inhibited MPO at 20µg/mL (97±5% and 43±4%, respectively) whereas, at the same concentration, those of the roots showed very low inhibition (15±6%). Harmine, harmaline and harmane demonstrated a significant inhibition of MPO at IC50 of 0.26, 0.08 and 0.72µM respectively. These alkaloids exerted a similar inhibition effects on MPO-induced LDL oxidation. Molecular docking analysis of Peganum harmala alkaloids on MPO showed that all active Peganum harmala alkaloids have a high affinity on the active site of MPO (predicted free energies of binding up to -3.1kcal/mol). Measurement of redox potentials versus the normal hydrogen electrode clearly differentiated (i) the high MPO inhibitory activity of harmine, harmaline and harmane (+1014, 1014 and 1003mV, respectively); and (ii) the low activity of harmalol and harmol (+629/778 and 532/644mV, respectively). A reverse phase HPLC method has been developed to determine simultaneously five alkaloids of Peganum harmala. Seeds contained all five β-carboline derivatives with the main active alkaloids, harmaline and harmine, being up to 3.8% and 2.9%, respectively. Up to 3.2% of harmine was determined in the roots. The four β-carboline derivatives, harmine, harmaline, harmane and harmalol were identified in the aerial parts. The highest inhibitory effect observed in seeds and the moderate effect of aerial parts could be explained by their harmine and harmaline content. In contrast, the very weak inhibition of the root extract, despite the presence of harmine, may tentatively be explained by the high concentration of harmol which can reduce Compound II of MPO to the native form.

CONCLUSION

The inhibition of MPO by Peganum harmala β-carboline alkaloids, herein reported for the first time, may explain the anti-inflammatory effect traditionally attributed to its herbal medicine.

Unsweetened natural cocoa has anti-asthmatic potential

Unsweetened natural cocoa powder is enriched with nutraceutical abundance of anti-asthmatic compounds theobromine and theophylline. Cocoa powder, which is prepared after removal of the cocoa butter, contains about 1.9&#x0025; theobromine and 0.21&#x0025; caffeine. Anecdotal reports indicate that regular consumption of unsweetened natural cocoa powder (UNCP), a common practice in Ghana, West Africa, has the potential to reduce the tendency of asthmatic episodes. In the present paper we studied the effect of regular ingestion of aqueous extract of UNCP on hematological and histopathological changes that occur in ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized guinea pigs. OVA-sensitized guinea pigs were challenged with aerosolized OVA 1 hour after ingestion of 300 mg/kg (low dose) or 600 mg/kg (high dose) of UNCP for 35 consecutive days. Histopathological and haematological changes in the OVA-sensitized guinea pigs were evaluated. Both negative and positive controls with distilled water and prednisolone, respectively, were used. OVA-sensitized guinea pigs demonstrated concentration-independent reduction in immune response to aerosolized OVA. There were no histo-architectural changes in the bronchiolar smooth muscles of the treated groups. Unsweetened natural cocoa powder has potential anti-asthmatic properties when administered orally at the doses tested.