The role of antioxidants in the Mediterranean diets: focus on cancer

Molecular and Pharmacokinetic Aspects of the Acetylcholinesterase-Inhibitory Potential of the Oleanane-Type Triterpenes and Their Glycosides

The acetylcholinesterase-inhibitory potential of the oleanane-type triterpenes and their glycosides from thebark of Terminalia arjuna (Combreatceae), i.e.,arjunic acid, arjunolic acid, arjungenin, arjunglucoside I, sericic acid and arjunetin, is presented. The studies are based on in silico pharmacokinetic and biomimetic studies, acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-inhibitory activity tests and molecular-docking research. Based on the calculated pharmacokinetic parameters, arjunetin and arjunglucoside I are indicated as able to cross the blood-brain barrier. The compounds of interest exhibit a marked acetylcholinesterase inhibitory potential, which was tested in the TLC bioautography test. The longest time to reach brain equilibrium is observed for both the arjunic and arjunolic acids and the shortest one for arjunetin. All of the compounds exhibit a high and relatively similar magnitude of binding energies, varying from ca. -15 to -13 kcal/mol. The superposition of the most favorable positions of all ligands interacting with AChE is analyzed. The correlation between the experimentally determined IC50 values and the steric parameters of the molecules is investigated. The inhibition of the enzyme by the analyzed compounds shows their potential to be used as cognition-enhancing agents. For the most potent compound (arjunglucoside I; ARG), the kinetics of AChE inhibition were tested. The Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) for the hydrolysis of the acetylthiocholine iodide substrate was calculated to be 0.011 mM.

Neuroprotective Properties of Oleanolic Acid-Computational-Driven Molecular Research Combined with In Vitro and In Vivo Experiments

Oleanolic acid (OA), as a ubiquitous compound in the plant kingdom, is studied for both its neuroprotective and neurotoxic properties. The mechanism of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory potential of OA is investigated using molecular dynamic simulations (MD) and docking as well as biomimetic tests. Moreover, the in vitro SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells and the in vivo zebrafish model were used. The inhibitory potential towards the AChE enzyme is examined using the TLC-bioautography assay (the IC50 value is 9.22 μM). The CH-π interactions between the central fragment of the ligand molecule and the aromatic cluster created by the His440, Phe288, Phe290, Phe330, Phe331, Tyr121, Tyr334, Trp84, and Trp279 side chains are observed. The results of the in vitro tests using the SH-SY5Y cells indicate that the viability rate is reduced to 71.5%, 61%, and 43% at the concentrations of 100 µg/mL, 300 µg/mL, and 1000 µg/mL, respectively, after 48 h of incubation, whereas cytotoxicity against the tested cell line with the IC50 value is 714.32 ± 32.40 µg/mL. The in vivo tests on the zebrafish prove that there is no difference between the control and experimental groups regarding the mortality rate and morphology (p > 0.05).

Effects of Alcohol Consumption on Oxidative Stress in a Sample of Patients Recruited in a Dietary Center in a Southern University Hospital: A Retrospective Study

Background and objectives: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the effects of alcohol consumption on oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted by analyzing the increase in lipid peroxidation, the reduction of antioxidant defenses and the alteration of the oxidation/antioxidant balance after the administration of ethanol in 25% aqueous solution (v/v) at a concentration of 0.76 g/kg of body weight daily in two doses for 3 days. The changes in oxidative stress indices were investigated by standard methods previously described. Results: Ethanol administration has determined a significant increase in plasma levels of lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH), malonilaldehyde (MDA) and oxidized glutathione (GSSH), and a decrease in total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reduced glutathione (GSH) and GSH/GSSH ratio. Conclusions: In the proposed experimental condition, the excessive and repeated consumption of ethanol causes oxidative damage, as shown by the increase in lipid peroxidation, the reduction of antioxidant defenses and the alteration of the oxidation/antioxidant balance, which, at least in part, are responsible for the harmful effects of excess ethanol.

Anticancer Effect of Spices Used in Mediterranean Diet: Preventive and Therapeutic Potentials

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with almost 10 million cancer-related deaths worldwide in 2020, so any investigation to prevent or cure this disease is very important. Spices have been studied widely in several countries to treat different diseases. However, studies that summarize the potential anticancer effect of spices used in Mediterranean diet are very limited. This review highlighted chemo-therapeutic and chemo-preventive effect of ginger, pepper, rosemary, turmeric, black cumin and clove. Moreover, the mechanisms of action for each one of them were figured out such as anti-angiogenesis, antioxidant, altering signaling pathways, induction of cell apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest, for several types of cancer. The most widely used spice in Mediterranean diet is black pepper (Piper nigrum L). Ginger and black cumin have the highest anticancer activity by targeting multiple cancer hallmarks. Apoptosis induction is the most common pathway activated by different spices in Mediterranean diet to inhibit cancer. Studies discussed in this review may help researchers to design and test new anticancer diets enriched with selected spices that have high activities.

Adherence to Mediterranean Diet and Its Association with Metabolic Health Status in Overweight and Obese Adolescents

BACKGROUND

Obesity is becoming more prevalent around the world and greatly contributes to chronic disease progression. Previous studies have investigated individual food groups in relation to metabolic health status of adolescents, mainly in Western countries. Limited data are available on the association between dietary patterns and metabolic health in Middle East nations, where childhood overweight/obesity is increasing drastically. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between the Mediterranean diet and metabolic health status among Iranian adolescents.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 203 overweight/obese adolescents. Dietary intakes were evaluated by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric parameters and blood pressure were measured. Fasting blood samples were obtained to determine circulating insulin, glucose, and lipid profile. Two different methods were applied to classify participants as metabolically healthy obese (MHO) or unhealthy obese (MUO): International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria and IDF along with insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 79 (38.9%) and 67 (33.0%) adolescents were, respectively, categorized as MUO, based on IDF and IDF/HOMA definitions. Considering IDF criteria, higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet was related to lower odds of being MUO, both in the crude (OR: 0.17; 95%CI: 0.08-0.37) and fully adjusted model (OR: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.13-0.84). Excluding each component from the score made the association insignificant, except for two components of meat and dairy products. Based on the IDF/HOMA-IR criteria, there was no significant association between Mediterranean diet score and MUO, after considering all potential confounders (OR: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.17-1.30).

CONCLUSIONS

We found an inverse association between the Mediterranean diet and odds of MUO among Iranian adolescents, based on IDF criteria. No significant relation was found when MUO was defined based on HOMA-IR/IDF criteria. Further prospective cohort studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Obesity in Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Patients: It Is Time to Improve Actions for a Healthier Lifestyle. The Results of a Comparison Between Two Italian Regions With Different "Presumed" Lifestyles

Background

Adult body fatness is a convincing risk factor for postmenopausal breast cancer. With the aim to compare the different breast cancer (BC) features in Northern and Southern Italy, we investigated the relationship between BMI and BC characteristic in two groups of patients referred in the Modena and Lecce breast units.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of a continuous series of BC patients referred to the Città di Lecce Hospital and the Modena Cancer Center, from January 2019 to December 2020 was performed. We identified four groups of BMI at BC diagnosis: underweight, BMI <18.5 kg/m²; normal weight, BMI ≥ 18.5–24.9 kg/m²; overweight, BMI ≥ 25.0–29.9 kg/m²; obese, BMI ≥30.0 kg/m². BC characteristics and clinical outcomes were analyzed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and Mann-Whitney U test; categorical data were compared using Pearson’s chi-square test, and dicotomic data were compared by odds ratio.

Results

Nine hundred seventy-seven BC patients were included in the analysis. Overall, 470 were from Modena and 507 from Lecce. No differences were observed in the mean age of BC patients of Modena (61,42) and Lecce (62,08). No statistical differences between the two populations were shown in terms of tumor characteristics and pathological stage. Conversely, a statistical difference of BMI between the BC patients coming from Modena and Lecce (25.87 and 27.81, respectively; p = 0.000001) was found. BC patients diagnosed in Lecce at age ≥70 years had higher median BMI compared with the ones from Modena (p = 0.000002). The increased BMI in this aged population was also associated to larger tumor size (p = 0.040).

Conclusion

The rate of overweight and obesity was higher in BC women living in Southern Italy, despite the presumed nutrition according to the so-called Mediterranean type dietary pattern. Unexpectedly, an increased BMI rate and a relationship with larger tumor size were found in Southern BC patients aged ≥70 years. Our findings strongly support the need for promoting a healthier lifestyle model in Italy, with the aim of reducing the rate of the obesity and, consequently, the increased risk of BC.

Hidrox® Counteracts Cyclophosphamide-Induced Male Infertility through NRF2 Pathways in a Mouse Model

BACKGROUND

Every year, men use cyclophosphamide to treat various cancers and autoimmune diseases. On the one hand, this chemotherapy often has the beneficial effect of regressing the tumor, but on the other hand, it leads to infertility due to excessive oxidative stress and apoptosis in the testes caused by its metabolite, acrolein.

METHODS

The objective of this study was to evaluate the beneficial power of a new compound called Hidrox^®, containing 40-50% hydroxytyrosol, in counteracting the damage related to fertility induced by cyclophosphamide. The study was conducted using a single intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide at a dose of 200 mg/kg b.w, in distilled water at 10 mL/kg b.w. The treatment was administered via the oral administration of Hidrox^® at a dose of 50 mg/kg.

RESULTS

Our study confirms that the use of cyclophosphamide causes a series of sperm and histological alterations strongly connected with oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate for the first time that Hidrox^® protects testes from CYP-induced alterations by the modulation of physiological antioxidant defenses.

Association between anthropometry and lifestyle factors and risk of B-cell lymphoma: An exposome-wide analysis

To better understand the role of individual and lifestyle factors in human disease, an exposome-wide association study was performed to investigate within a single-study anthropometry measures and lifestyle factors previously associated with B-cell lymphoma (BCL). Within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and nutrition study, 2402 incident BCL cases were diagnosed from 475 426 participants that were followed-up on average 14 years. Standard and penalized Cox regression models as well as principal component analysis (PCA) were used to evaluate 84 exposures in relation to BCL risk. Standard and penalized Cox regression models showed a positive association between anthropometric measures and BCL and multiple myeloma/plasma cell neoplasm (MM). The penalized Cox models additionally showed the association between several exposures from categories of physical activity, smoking status, medical history, socioeconomic position, diet and BCL and/or the subtypes. PCAs confirmed the individual associations but also showed additional observations. The PC5 including anthropometry, was positively associated with BCL, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and MM. There was a significant positive association between consumption of sugar and confectionary (PC11) and follicular lymphoma risk, and an inverse association between fish and shellfish and Vitamin D (PC15) and DLBCL risk. The PC1 including features of the Mediterranean diet and diet with lower inflammatory score showed an inverse association with BCL risk, while the PC7, including dairy, was positively associated with BCL and DLBCL risk. Physical activity (PC10) was positively associated with DLBCL risk among women. This study provided informative insights on the etiology of BCL.

Associations of one-carbon metabolism-related gene polymorphisms with breast cancer risk are modulated by diet, being higher when adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern is low

PURPOSE

Breast cancer is more likely attributed to a combination of genetic variations and lifestyle factors. Both one-carbon metabolism and diet-related factors could interfere with the carcinogenesis of breast cancer (BC), but whether diet consumed underlie a specific metabolism pathway could influence the impact of genetic variants on breast cancer risk remains equivocal.

METHODS

A case-control study of the Chinese female population (818 cases, 935 controls). 13 SNPs in eight one-carbon metabolism-related genes (MTHFD1, TYMS, MTRR, MAT2B, CDO1, FOLR1, UNG2, ADA) were performed. Diet was assessed by a validated food-frequency questionnaire. We examined the associations of the adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern (MDP) and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of one-carbon metabolism with breast cancer risk. We constructed an aggregate polygenic risk score (PRS) to test the additive effects of genetic variants and analyzed the gene-diet interactions.

RESULTS

High adherence (highest quartile) to the MDP decreased the risk of breast cancer among post- but not premenopausal women, respectively (OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.38 to 0.78 and 0.90, 0.53 to 1.53). Neither of the polymorphisms or haplotypes was associated with breast cancer risk, irrespective of menopause. However, a high PRS (highest quartile) was associated with more than a doubling risk in both post- and premenopausal women, respectively (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.32 to 2.87 and 2.09, 1.54 to 2.85). We found a gene-diet interaction with adherence to the MDP for aggregate PRS (P-interaction = 0.000) among postmenopausal women. When adherence to the MDP was low (< median), carries with high PRS (highest quartile) had higher BC risk (OR = 2.80, 95% CI = 1.55 to 5.07) than low PRS (lowest quartile), while adherence to the MDP was high (≥ median), the association disappeared (OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 0.92 to 2.66).

CONCLUSION

High adherence to the MDP may counteract the genetic predisposition associated with one-carbon metabolism on breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women.

Anticancer Effects of Nutraceuticals in the Mediterranean Diet: An Epigenetic Diet Model

Epidemiological and clinical studies support the association between nutrition and development or progression of different malignancies such as colon, breast, and prostate cancer, defining these tumors as diet-associated cancer. The Mediterranean diet shows inverse associations with metabolic diseases, cardiovascular pathologies and various types of cancer. Many bioactive nutrients of the Mediterranean diet have been identified as factors protective against these types of pathologies. The epigenome has been identified as the primary goal of modulations in gene expression related to these molecular nutrients. In fact, they can modify the epigenome and can be incorporated into the 'epigenetic diet', which translates into a diet regimen that can be used therapeutically for health or preventative purposes. Most epigenetic changes are influenced by lifestyle and nutrition. Epigenetic therapy is a new area for the development of nutraceuticals whose absence of toxicity can represent a valid asset in cancer prevention strategies. Recent advances in understanding the mechanisms of nutrigenomics, nutrigenetics and nutraceuticals have led to the identification of superfoods capable of favorably conditioning gene expression. In this review, we highlight the importance of nutraceuticals present in the Mediterranean diet as epigenetic modifiers both in the mechanisms of tumor onset and as protective agents.

Effects of diets high in corn oil or in extra virgin olive oil on oxidative stress in an experimental model of breast cancer

Experimental evidence highlights the importance of dietetic factors on breast cancer. In this work we aimed to analyze the effects two oils, corn oil (rich in n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids -PUFA-) and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), on oxidative stress in an animal model of breast carcinogenesis. Female rats were fed a low-fat control, a high-corn oil, or a high-EVOO diet from weaning or after induction with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene at 53 days. Animals were euthanized at 36, 51, 100 and 246 days of age. We analyzed antioxidant enzymes (mRNA and activity of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase), non-enzymatic capacity (oxidized and reduced glutathione) and DNA damage (8-oxo-dG) in tumors and mammary gland at different ages. We also analyzed lipid peroxidation (isoprostanes in serum and lipofuscin in liver). Results indicated a decrease in the enzymatic antioxidant capacity and increased oxidative stress in mammary gland of healthy young animals after a short period of high-fat diets intake, followed by an adaptation to chronic dietary intervention. After induction both diets, especially the one high in n-6 PUFA, increased the oxidized glutathione. In tumors no clear effects of the high-fat diets were observed, although in the long-term lipofuscin and 8-oxo-dG suggested greater oxidative damage by effect of the n-6 PUFA-rich diet. Considering the differential effects of these diets on mammary carcinogenesis that we have previously reported, this study suggests that these high-fat diets could have an effect on oxidative stress that would lead to different signaling pathways.

Adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern in relation to glioma: A case-control study

BACKGROUND

Although Mediterranean diet (MD) was associated with a lower risk of mortality and cancer, no data are available investigating the association between adherence to the MD and risk of glioma.

METHODS

In this case-control study, we enrolled a total of 128 newly diagnosed patients with glioma, confirmed by pathological assessment, and 256 hospital-based controls from 2009 to 2011 in Tehran, Iran. A valid and reliable Block-format food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess dietary intakes. Adherence to the MD was examined using the scoring method suggested by Trichopoulou et al. Logistic regression was used to examine the associations of interest.

RESULTS

After controlling for age, sex, and energy intake, participants in the highest tertile of MD score had not significantly lower odds of glioma than those in the lowest tertile (OR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.32-1.03, P_trend = 0.06). However, after taking other potential confounders into account, individuals with the greatest adherence to the MD score were 74% less likely to have glioma than those with the lowest adherence (OR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.12-0.55, P_trend < 0.001). Additional adjustments for dietary intakes and BMI did not significantly alter this association (OR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.16-0.78, P_trend = 0.009; OR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.16-0.78, P_trend = 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSION

We found that adherence to the MD was associated with a lower likelihood of having glioma. Prospective cohort studies are needed to further examine these findings.

Hydroxytyrosol: A natural compound with promising pharmacological activities

Hydroxytyrosol is a phenolic phytochemical with antioxidant properties in vitro. It is a natural compound that can be found in olive leaves and oil. The main dietary source of hydroxytyrosol is extra virgin olive oil. Due to its bioavailability, chemical properties and easy formulation along with its lack of toxicity, hydroxytyrosol is considered an excellent food supplement by the nutraceutical and food industries. The purpose of this review is to discuss the potential therapeutic effects of hydroxytyrosol in vivo. To do so, we conducted an electronic search in PubMed and other literature databases using "hydroxytyrosol", "beneficial effect/s", "pharmacology" as key-words. From this search, we found that hydroxytyrosol has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Hydroxytyrosol also improves endothelial dysfunction, decreases oxidative stress, and is neuro- and cardio-protective. Due to all these biological properties, hydroxytyrosol is currently the most actively investigated natural phenol. The evidence presented in this review suggests that hydroxytyrosol has great pharmacological potential.

Adherence to the mediterranean diet and lymphoma risk in the european prospective investigation into cancer and nutrition

There is a growing evidence of the protective role of the Mediterranean diet (MD) on cancer. However, no prospective study has yet investigated its influence on lymphoma. We evaluated the association between adherence to the MD and risk of lymphoma and its subtypes in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. The analysis included 476,160 participants, recruited from 10 European countries between 1991 and 2001. Adherence to the MD was estimated through the adapted relative MD (arMED) score excluding alcohol. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used while adjusting for potential confounders. During an average follow-up of 13.9 years, 3,136 lymphomas (135 Hodgkin lymphoma [HL], 2,606 non-HL and 395 lymphoma not otherwise specified) were identified. Overall, a 1-unit increase in the arMED score was associated with a 2% lower risk of lymphoma (95% CI: 0.97; 1.00, p-trend = 0.03) while a statistically nonsignificant inverse association between a high versus low arMED score and risk of lymphoma was observed (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.91 [95% CI 0.80; 1.03], p-trend = 0.12). Analyses by lymphoma subtype did not reveal any statistically significant associations. Albeit with small numbers of cases (N = 135), a suggestive inverse association was found for HL (HR 1-unit increase = 0.93 [95% CI: 0.86; 1.01], p-trend = 0.07). However, the study may have lacked statistical power to detect small effect sizes for lymphoma subtype. Our findings suggest that an increasing arMED score was inversely related to the risk of overall lymphoma in EPIC but not by subtypes. Further large prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Bixin Triggers Apoptosis of Human Hep3B Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells: An Insight to Molecular and IN SILICO Approach

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer and is known to be resistant to conventional chemotherapy. The use of herbal medicine and supplements has increased over recent decades following side effects and resistant to conventional chemotherapy. The seeds of Bixa orellana L. commonly known as annatto have recently gained scientific attention due to presence of a carotenoid bixin for its substantial anticancer properties. However, molecular mechanisms underlying bixin-induced apoptosis are still unclear. Treatment of bixin significantly decreased the number of Hep3B cells and morphological study revealed the change in cellular and nuclear morphology that trigger the events of apoptosis confirmed by annexin V/PI staining. Further DCFDA and rhodamine 123 spectrofluorimetry study showed elevation in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), respectively. ROS production caused DNA damage and apoptosis was marked by cell cycle arrest, up-regulation of Bax and FasL protein as well as cleavage of caspase-9, caspase-8 and caspase-3 protein. Docking study with pro-apoptotic molecule Bax and surface Fas ligand exhibited energetically favourable binding interaction. Collectively, these results suggest that bixin capable of modulating the extrinsic and intrinsic molecules of apoptosis indicating its potential for development of promising candidate for hepatocellular carcinoma.

The health-nutrition dimension: a methodological approach to assess the nutritional sustainability of typical agro-food products and the Mediterranean diet

BACKGROUND

The aim of this paper is to provide a methodological approach to evaluate the nutritional sustainability of typical agro-food products, representing Mediterranean eating habits and included in the Mediterranean food pyramid.

RESULTS

For each group of foods, suitable and easily measurable indicators were identified. Two macro-indicators were used to assess the nutritional sustainability of each product. The first macro-indicator, called 'business distinctiveness', takes into account the application of different regulations and standards regarding quality, safety and traceability as well as the origin of raw materials. The second macro-indicator, called 'nutritional quality', assesses product nutritional quality taking into account the contents of key compounds including micronutrients and bioactive phytochemicals. For each indicator a 0-10 scoring system was set up, with scores from 0 (unsustainable) to 10 (very sustainable), with 5 as a sustainability benchmark value. The benchmark value is the value from which a product can be considered sustainable. A simple formula was developed to produce a sustainability index.

CONCLUSION

The proposed sustainability index could be considered a useful tool to describe both the qualitative and quantitative value of micronutrients and bioactive phytochemical present in foodstuffs. This methodological approach can also be applied beyond the Mediterranean, to food products in other world regions. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Mediterranean Diet and Breast Cancer Risk

The Mediterranean diet has been related to a reduced risk of several common cancers but its role on breast cancer has not been quantified yet. We investigated the association between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and breast cancer risk by means of a hospital-based case-control study conducted in Italy and Switzerland. 3034 breast cancer cases and 3392 controls admitted to the same network of hospitals for acute, non-neoplastic and non-gynaecologic diseases were studied. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was quantitatively measured through a Mediterranean Diet Score (MDS), summarizing the major characteristics of the Mediterranean dietary pattern and ranging from 0 (lowest adherence) to 9 (highest adherence). We estimated the odds ratios (ORs) of breast cancer for the MDS using multiple logistic regression models, adjusting for several covariates. Compared to a MDS of 0–3, the ORs for breast cancer were 0.86 (95% confidence interval, CI, 0.76–0.98) for a MDS of 4–5 and 0.82 (95% CI, 0.71–0.95) for a MDS of 6–9 (p for trend = 0.008). The exclusion of the ethanol component from the MDS did not materially modify the ORs (e.g., OR = 0.81, 95% CI, 0.70–0.95, for MDS ≥ 6). Results were similar in pre- and post-menopausal women. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with a reduced breast cancer risk.

A review of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and breast cancer risk according to estrogen- and progesterone-receptor status and HER2 oncogene expression

Background

Previous observational studies and systematic reviews have suggested that adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer, but have not examined associations with molecular subtypes of breast cancer. The current review examines the association with adherence to the Mediterranean diet and risk of breast cancer according to molecular subtypes.

Methods

Bibliographic searches were conducted in PubMed and CINAHL using relevant MeSH search terms and Boolean algebra commands.

Results

Six cohort studies and one case-control study have examined adherence with the Mediterranean diet and risk of breast cancer according to estrogen-receptor (ER) and progesterone-receptor (PR) status and human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) oncogene expression. Taken overall, studies suggest that the Mediterranean dietary pattern is inversely associated with breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women, and that the inverse association is somewhat stronger among ER- tumors. Although there is a suggestion that the Mediterranean diet is inversely associated with PR- tumors and with ER-/PR-/HER2- ("triple negative" tumors), results to date have been mixed and the number of studies that have examined associations with this dietary pattern among tumors characterized by multiple molecular subtypes remains small.

Conclusions

The results of this systematic review suggest that consumption of a Mediterranean diet pattern is associated with a reduced risk of postmenopausal breast cancer, particularly among ER- tumors. Additional cohort studies that have sufficient sample sizes and long-term follow-up are warranted to identify sizeable numbers of invasive breast cancer cases, thereby allowing for characterization of the tumors by molecular subtype.

Mediterranean diet-gene interactions: A targeted metabolomics study in Greek-Cypriot women

SCOPE

A high adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) was previously associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer (BC) among Greek-Cypriot women. Additionally, particular polymorphisms were shown to modulate this MD-BC association. Herein, we aimed to investigate the effect of polymorphisms-MD interactions on the levels of specific metabolites that could be related to dietary adherence or enzymatic activity, which is itself modulated by polymorphisms.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Greek-Cypriot women who were BC controls and had the lowest or the highest MD adherence (vegetables, fruit, legumes, fish) as assessed by principal component analysis (n = 564) were included. Participants were previously genotyped for nine polymorphisms of the one-carbon metabolism, oxidative stress, and xenobiotic metabolism. The serum levels of 14 metabolites that are key players in the aforementioned pathways were measured by UPLC-MS/MS. ANCOVA was used to assess polymorphism-MD interactions on metabolites' levels within a multivariate linear regression model. Statistically significant interactions between GSTM1 (where GST is glutathione S-transferase) deletion polymorphism and MD on flavin mononucleotide and on 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) concentrations were observed. The MTHFR rs1801133 interacted significantly with MD on 5-MTHF concentration.

CONCLUSION

Serum levels of flavin mononucleotide and 5-MTHF were shown to be influenced by interactions between GSTM1 deletion or MTHFR (rs1801133) polymorphisms and a dietary pattern, characteristic of MD.

A manifesto for the valorization of wild edible plants

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Wild foods constitute an essential component of people's diets around the world, but despite their widespread use and their cultural importance, wild edible plants (WEPs) lack recognition as significant contributors to the human diet in developed countries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We stimulate national and international bodies dealing with food and agriculture, to increase their attention and investments on WEPs, leveraging the results of scientific investigation, enhancing the link between in situ conservation strategies and sustainable use of plant genetic diversity.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

WEPs should be reconsidered throughout their value chain, capturing their important socio-cultural, health, and economic benefits to indigenous and local communities and family farmers who are engaged in their production and wild-harvesting.

The role of olive oil in disease prevention: a focus on the recent epidemiological evidence from cohort studies and dietary intervention trials

Consumption of olive oil within the Mediterranean diet has been long known to have many health benefits. However, only over the last decade has epidemiological research confirmed its protective role against developing several chronic diseases. The objective of this review was to give an overview of the state of art epidemiological evidence concerning the relationship between olive oil and key public health outcomes including mortality, CVD, diabetes, metabolic syndrome (MetS), obesity and cancer, with a particular focus on recent results from cohort studies and dietary intervention trials. Recent epidemiological research has shown that regular consumption of olive oil is associated with increased longevity. This benefit is partly due to the olive oil's unequivocal cardio-protective role. There is converging evidence on the benefits of olive oil for preventing several CVD risk factors, including diabetes, MetS and obesity. Olive oil is also implicated in preventing certain cancers, with the most promising findings for breast and digestive tract cancers, although the data are still not entirely consistent and mainly from case–control studies. These health benefits are supported by strong mechanistic evidence from experimental studies, demonstrating that specific components of olive oil have antihypertensive, antithrombotic, antioxidant, antiinflammatory and anticarcinogenic action. Despite the accumulating epidemiological research, there is still a lack of consistent results from high-quality studies for many health outcomes (i.e. certain cancers and metabolism-related disorders). Further research is mandatory, above all from prospective studies and randomised dietary intervention trials when feasible, to confirm some of the still potential health benefits.

Antioxidants and human diseases

Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the development of human diseases. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) that includes hydrogen peroxide, hyphochlorus acid, superoxide anion, singlet oxygen, lipid peroxides, hypochlorite and hydroxyl radical are involved in growth, differentiation, progression and death of the cell. They can react with membrane lipids, nucleic acids, proteins, enzymes and other small molecules. Low concentrations of ROS has an indispensable role in intracellular signalling and defence against pathogens, while, higher amounts of ROS play a role in number of human diseases, including arthritis, cancer, diabetes, atherosclerosis, ischemia, failures in immunity and endocrine functions. Antioxidants presumably act as safeguard against the accumulation of ROS and their elimination from the system. The aim of this review is to highlight advances in understanding of the ROS and also to summarize the detailed impact and involvement of antioxidants in selected human diseases.

The immune protective effect of the Mediterranean diet against chronic low-grade inflammatory diseases

Dietary patterns high in refined starches, sugar, and saturated and trans-fatty acids, poor in natural antioxidants and fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and poor in omega-3 fatty acids may cause an activation of the innate immune system, most likely by excessive production of proinflammatory cytokines associated with a reduced production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. The Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) is a nutritional model inspired by the traditional dietary pattern of some of the countries of the Mediterranean basin. This dietary pattern is characterized by the abundant consumption of olive oil, high consumption of plant foods (fruits, vegetables, pulses, cereals, nuts and seeds); frequent and moderate intake of wine (mainly with meals); moderate consumption of fish, seafood, yogurt, cheese, poultry and eggs; and low consumption of red meat, processed meat products and seeds. Several epidemiological studies have evaluated the effects of a Mediterranean pattern as protective against several diseases associated with chronic low-grade inflammation such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome and cognition disorders. The adoption of this dietary pattern could counter the effects of several inflammatory markers, decreasing, for example, the secretion of circulating and cellular biomarkers involved in the atherosclerotic process. Thus, the aim of this review was to consider the current evidence about the effectiveness of the MedDiet in these chronic inflammatory diseases due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may not only act on classical risk factors but also on inflammatory biomarkers such as adhesion molecules, cytokines or molecules related to the stability of atheromatic plaque.

Nutritional countermeasures targeting reactive oxygen species in cancer: from mechanisms to biomarkers and clinical evidence

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) exert various biological effects and contribute to signaling events during physiological and pathological processes. Enhanced levels of ROS are highly associated with different tumors, a Western lifestyle, and a nutritional regime. The supplementation of food with traditional antioxidants was shown to be protective against cancer in a number of studies both in vitro and in vivo. However, recent large-scale human trials in well-nourished populations did not confirm the beneficial role of antioxidants in cancer, whereas there is a well-established connection between longevity of several human populations and increased amount of antioxidants in their diets. Although our knowledge about ROS generators, ROS scavengers, and ROS signaling has improved, the knowledge about the direct link between nutrition, ROS levels, and cancer is limited. These limitations are partly due to lack of standardized reliable ROS measurement methods, easily usable biomarkers, knowledge of ROS action in cellular compartments, and individual genetic predispositions. The current review summarizes ROS formation due to nutrition with respect to macronutrients and antioxidant micronutrients in the context of cancer and discusses signaling mechanisms, used biomarkers, and its limitations along with large-scale human trials.

Oleuropein, a secoiridoid derived from olive tree, inhibits the proliferation of human colorectal cancer cell through downregulation of HIF-1α

Oleuropein (OL) is the most prominent phenolic compound in the fruit of olive tree. Although OL has shown powerful anticancer activity the underlying action mechanism remains largely unknown. The present study evaluated the effects of OL on hydroxityrosol (HT)-29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells in comparison to hydroxytyrosol, its hydrolysis product, and to elucidate the underlying anticancer molecular mechanisms involved. Cell proliferation was determined using SRB assay. Cell cycle and apoptosis were assessed by flow cytometry and changes in MAPK cascade protein expression, HIF-1α, p53, PPARγ, and NFKβ signaling pathways by Western blot. Although OL showed less potency than HT, in terms of cell growth inhibition, induced significant changes in cell cycle analysis and caused a significant increase in the apoptotic population. Both compounds produced a remarkable decrease in HIF-1α protein and an upregulation of p53 protein expression. However, no significant changes in IkB-α and MAPK cascade protein expressions were observed. HT produced a significant upregulation in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) expression whereas OL failed. PPARγ upregulation may be one of the principal mechanisms of the tumor shrinkage by HT. Our novel findings demonstrate that OL limits the growth and induces apoptosis in HT-29 cells via p53 pathway activation adapting the HIF-1α response to hypoxia.

A lycopene-enriched virgin olive oil enhances antioxidant status in humans

BACKGROUND

Lycopene, a bioactive red pigment, represents the most potent in vitro antioxidant among carotenoids. Virgin olive oil contains trace amounts of a wide variety of phytochemicals, which have proven to exert beneficial effects on oxidative stress. Since the ingestion of lycopene together with oil reportedly increases its bioavailability, we evaluated urinary antioxidant capacity after the consumption of a lycopene-enriched virgin olive oil (7 mg lycopene day(-1)) compared with the antioxidant effect produced after the ingestion of a virgin olive oil and a sunflower oil during 5 days, in young (25-30 years of age), middle-aged (35-55 years of age) and elderly (65-85 years of age) subjects.

RESULTS

The results showed that the consumption of virgin olive oil increased urinary antioxidant capacity in middle-aged and elderly volunteers, whereas the administration of a lycopene-enriched virgin olive oil produced higher antioxidant effects in all of the three age groups assayed.

CONCLUSION

The incorporation of the lycopene-enriched virgin olive oil into the diet may enhance the health-promoting effects of the virgin olive oil, contributing as a functional tool against several disorders where oxidative stress plays an important role.

Effect of cooking methods on antioxidant activity and nitrate content of selected wild Mediterranean plants

Wild edible plants (WEP), traditionally consumed in the Mediterranean diet, are considered a rich source of natural antioxidants but can also accumulate significant amount of nitrates. Most WEP are cooked before consumption, therefore, a study was conducted to evaluate the effects of boiling, steaming and microwave cooking processes on the total antioxidant activity (TAA) and nitrate content of eight common WEP. Boiling caused the highest losses of TAA, resulting in a reduction of the TAA on dry weight (DW) basis ranging from 5.5% in Beta vulgaris up to 100% in Urtica dioica. Steaming and microwaving produced the highest increase of TAA on DW basis in Helminthotheca echioides (249.7%) and Taraxacum officinale (60.7%). Boiling caused the highest reduction of nitrate content in all species excluding Asparagus acutifolius that maintained almost unvaried its already low nitrate content. These results suggest that cooking has not always negative effect on product quality, since in certain cases, it may even enhance the nutritional value of WEP by increasing their TAA and reducing the nitrate content.

Melatonin, melatonin isomers and stilbenes in Italian traditional grape products and their antiradical capacity

Although polyphenols represent the paradigm of the health-promoting effects ascribed to grape products, recently, attention has been paid to dietary melatonin, significantly present in Mediterranean foods. In this work, we measured melatonin, its isomers, stilbenes (trans- and cis-resveratrol and their glucosides, piceids) and total polyphenols in some different grape products (red, white and dessert wines, grape juices and Modena balsamic vinegars) of distinct Italian areas. We also evaluated their antiradical activity by DPPH(·) and ABTS(·+) assays. For indoleamine analysis, the separation was carried out on a 1.7-μm C18 BEH column and the detection performed by means of mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization in positive ion mode with multiple reaction monitoring. The confirmation of the peak identity was accomplished by injection into the high-resolution system (Orbitrap) using accurate mass measurements (error below 1.0 ppm). Mass spectrometry analyses revealed, for the first time, the presence of melatonin in dessert wines and balsamic vinegars, as well as the occurrence of three different melatonin isomers in grape products.

[Dietetic factors associated with prostate cancer: protective effects of Mediterranean diet]

OBJECTIVE

To review diet risk factors (RF) implied, more or less evidence-based, in the etiopathology of prostate carcinoma (PC), especially those that characterize the traditional Mediterranean diet (MD).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Literature review of PC related diet RF in MedLine, CancerLit, Science Citation Index y Embase. Search profiles were "Dietetic Factors/Nutritional Factors/Mediterranean Diet/Primary Prevention", and "Prostate Cancer".

RESULTS

Diet RF are associated with 35% of cancer mortality and 10-12% of PC mortality. The main diet RF, implied in the development of PC but with a protective effect, which are considered characteristic of MD are: high daily ingestion of vegetarian products (cereals, legumes, dried and fresh fruits, tubers, vegetables..); olive oil as main lipid source; low intake of animal saturated fat, processed red meat, milk and dairy products; regular consumption of small fish; and low alcohol intake (wine with meals). The MD contains many phytoactive compounds (lycopene, lupeol, quercetin, genistein, carnosol, resveratrol, catechins, vitamins..) with PC protective effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Diet RF have a role on prostatic carcinogenesis. Further epidemiologic studies with better designs are needed to clarify PC related diet RF. PC risk is reduced in persons on MD compared with those on Western diet. The preventive effect of MD is due to the great number and quality of phytochemicals with antioxidant and antinflammatory properties that contains.

The mediterranean dietary pattern and breast cancer risk in Greek-Cypriot women: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Diet has long been suspected to impact on breast cancer risk. In this study we evaluated whether the degree of adherence to a Mediterranean diet pattern modifies breast cancer risk amongst Greek-Cypriot women.

METHODS

Subjects included 935 cases and 817 controls, all participating in the MASTOS case-control study in Cyprus. The study was approved by the Cyprus National Bioethics Committee. Information on dietary intakes was collected using an interviewer administered 32-item Food Frequency Questionnaire. Information on demographic, anthropometric, lifestyle, and other confounding factors was also collected. Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet pattern was assessed using two a-priory defined diet scores. In addition, dietary patterns specific to our population were derived using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Logistic regression models were used to assess the association between the dietary patters and breast cancer risk.

RESULTS

There was no association with breast cancer risk for either score, however, higher consumptions of vegetables, fish and olive oil, were independently associated with decreased risk. In addition, the PCA derived component which included vegetables, fruit, fish and legumes was shown to significantly reduce risk of breast cancer (ORs across quartiles of increasing levels of consumption: 0.89 95%CI: 0.65-1.22, 0.64 95%CI: 0.47-0.88, 0.67 95%CI: 0.49-0.92, P trend < 0.0001), even after adjustment for relevant confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that adherence to a diet pattern rich in vegetables, fish, legumes and olive oil may favorably influence the risk of breast cancer. This study is the first investigation of dietary effects on breast cancer risk in Cyprus, a country whose population has traditionally adhered to the Mediterranean diet.

Influence of selenium on hepatic mitochondrial antioxidant capacity in ducklings intoxicated with aflatoxin B₁

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of selenium on hepatic mitochondrial antioxidant capacity in ducklings administrated with aflatoxin B(1) (AFB(1)). Ninety 7-day-old ducklings were randomly divided into three groups (groups I-III). Group I was used as a blank control. Group II was administered with AFB(1) (0.1 mg/kg body weight). Group III was administered with AFB(1) (0.1 mg/kg body weight) plus selenium (sodium selenite, 1 mg/kg body weight). All treatments were given once daily for 21 days. The results showed that the activities of mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and glutathione reductase (GR) in group II ducklings significantly decreased when compared with group I (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the content of hepatic mitochondrial malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly increased (P < 0.01). However, the activities of hepatic mitochondrial SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and GR in group III ducklings significantly increased when compared with group II (P < 0.05). In addition, the content of hepatic mitochondrial MDA significantly decreased (P < 0.01). These results revealed that AFB(1) significantly induced hepatic mitochondrial antioxidant dysfunction. However, sodium selenite could significantly ameliorate the negative effect induced by AFB(1).

Olive oil intake is inversely related to cancer prevalence: a systematic review and a meta-analysis of 13,800 patients and 23,340 controls in 19 observational studies

Dietary fat, both in terms of quantity and quality, has been implicated to cancer development, either positively or negatively. The aim of this work was to evaluate whether olive oil or monounsaturated fat intake was associated with the development of cancer. A systematic search of relevant studies, published in English, between 1990 and March 1, 2011, was performed through a computer-assisted literature tool (i.e., Pubmed). In total 38 studies were initially allocated; of them 19 case-control studies were finally studied (13800 cancer patients and 23340 controls were included). Random effects meta-analysis was applied in order to evaluate the research hypothesis. It was found that compared with the lowest, the highest category of olive oil consumption was associated with lower odds of having any type of cancer (log odds ratio = -0.41, 95%CI -0.53, -0.29, Cohran's Q = 47.52, p = 0.0002, I-sq = 62%); the latter was irrespective of the country of origin (Mediterranean or non-Mediterranean). Moreover, olive oil consumption was associated with lower odds of developing breast cancer (logOR = -0,45 95%CI -0.78 to -0.12), and a cancer of the digestive system (logOR = -0,36 95%CI -0.50 to -0.21), compared with the lowest intake. The strength and consistency of the findings states a hypothesis about the protective role of olive oil intake on cancer risk. However, it is still unclear whether olive oil's monounsaturated fatty acid content or its antioxidant components are responsible for its beneficial effects.

Oleic acid versus linoleic and α-linolenic acid. different effects on Ca2+ signaling in rat thymocytes

BACKGROUND

Oleic acid is the principal fatty acid of olive oil composition and is reported to play a crucial role in its healthy aspects. However, the detailed mechanism of action is poorly understood.

AIMS

This study aims to elucidate the role of oleic acid in calcium signaling in rat thymocytes, in comparison to linoleic and linolenic acid.

METHODS

Fatty acids were applied to thymocytes isolated from wistar rats and loaded with Fura-2 to measure calcium signals.

RESULTS

The main results showed a concentration-dependent increase in [Ca(2+)](i) induced by the 3 fatty acids. Raising the number of unsaturations resulted in greater increases. Two different pathways contributed to the increase induced by the polyunsaturated fatty acids: an IP(3)- independent release from the thapsigargin-sensitive stores and an extracellular calcium entry by econazole and nifedipine-insensitive channels. However, the OA-induced increases in [Ca(2+)](i) seemed to be due mostly to the Ca(2+) recruited from the intracellular stores.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that the fatty acids tested induce increases in [Ca(2+)](i) in rat thymocytes, with differences in close relation to the degree of unsaturation. Such differences could be responsible for their different physiological action.

Melatonin in traditional Mediterranean diets

Compared with other industrialized countries, the lower incidence of chronic-degenerative disorders in Mediterranean populations has been emphasized in recent decades. The health-promoting effects arising from Mediterranean dietary habits have been attributed to the large intake of plant foodstuffs rich in bioactive phytochemicals, such as melatonin. Recently, it has been suggested that melatonin present in edible plants may improve human health, by virtue of its biological activities and its good bioavailability. Plant melatonin, besides contributing to optimize the physiological functions regulated, in humans, by endogenous melatonin, may be involved in nutritional therapy to reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases in western populations. In this view, the presence of melatonin in some Mediterranean foods and beverages adds a new element to the hypothesis of health benefits associated to Mediterranean dietary patterns, although the available data are still preliminary and incomplete.

Helicobacter pylori and gastric cancer in the Middle East: A new enigma?

The Middle East is the home of ethnic groups from three main backgrounds: Semitic (Arabs and Jews), Indo-European (Persians and Kurdish) and Turkic (Turkish and Turkmens). Its geographic location, which has been under continuous influences from Asia, Europe and Africa, has made it an ideal site for epidemiological studies on Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and genotyping. The gastric cancer rate differs in this region from very high in Iran (26.1/10⁵) to low in Israel (12.5/10⁵) and very low in Egypt (3.4/10⁵). Epidemiological studies showed that the prevalence of H. pylori is almost similar in those countries with a high level of infection in childhood. Importantly, the frequency of vacA s1 and m1 regions and cagA+ genotypes were higher in non Semitic populations who inhabit the North than Semitic populations, the inhabitants of Southern parts of the Middle East. H. pylori infection prevalence, distribution pattern of virulence factors, diet and smoking could not have explained the difference in cancer rate. This reflects the multifactorial aetiology of gastric cancer and suggests that H. pylori infection does not always directly correlate with the risk for gastrointestinal disease, such as gastric cancer. Further detailed investigations and international comparative studies of each risk factor need to be performed to investigate whether this represents a true enigma.

Neuroprotective herbs and foods from different traditional medicines and diets

Plant secondary metabolites include an array of bioactive constituents form both medicinal and food plants able to improve human health. The exposure to these phytochemicals, including phenylpropanoids, isoprenoids and alkaloids, through correct dietary habits, may promote health benefits, protecting against the chronic degenerative disorders mainly seen in Western industrialized countries, such as cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we briefly deal with some plant foods and herbs of traditional medicines and diets, focusing on their neuroprotective active components. Because oxidative stress and neuroinflammation resulting from neuroglial activation, at the level of neurons, microglial cells and astrocytes, are key factors in the etiopathogenesis of both neurodegenerative and neurological diseases, emphasis will be placed on the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity exerted by specific molecules present in food plants or in remedies prescribed by herbal medicines.

Squalene protects against oxidative DNA damage in MCF10A human mammary epithelial cells but not in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells

Until now, very little has been known about the antioxidant capacity of squalene and its effect on human breast tumourigenesis. In the present work, we investigated squalene's scavenging properties and its effect on cell proliferation, cell cycle profile, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and oxidative DNA damage, using human breast cell lines. Our results showed that squalene neither possesses scavenging activity nor significantly alters cell proliferation rates, the cell cycle profile or cell apoptosis in human mammary epithelial cells (MCF10A), minimally invasive (MDA-MB-231) breast cancer cells, and highly invasive (MCF7) breast cancer cells. However, we found that squalene did exert the following effects on MCF10A epithelial cells in a dose-dependent manner: (a) it decreased intracellular ROS level, (b) it prevented H(2)O(2)-induced oxidative injury, and (c) it protected against oxidative DNA damage. Interestingly, squalene did not exert these effects on MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cancer cells. Therefore, our data suggest that squalene, found in high amounts in virgin olive oils, could be partially responsible for the lower incidence of breast cancer in populations that consume the Mediterranean diet due to its protective activity against oxidative DNA damage in normal mammary cells.

Supressive effect of maslinic acid from pomace olive oil on oxidative stress and cytokine production in stimulated murine macrophages

The pentacyclic triterpene maslinic acid (MA) is a natural compound present in the non glyceride fraction of pomace olive oil, also called orujo olive oil. This compound has previously demonstrated antioxidant properties against lipid peroxidation in vitro, but its effects on reactive oxygen and nitrogen-derived species and pro-inflammatory cytokines generated by a cell system have not yet been investigated. In this study, we have tested the effect of MA upon oxidative stress and cytokine production using peritoneal murine macrophages. MA significantly inhibited the enhanced production of nitric oxide (NO) induced by lypopolysaccharide (LPS) when it was measured by the nitrite production with an inhibitory concentration 50% value (IC(50)) of 25.4 microM. This inhibiting effect seems to be consequence of an action at the level of the LPS-induction of the inducible nitric oxide synthethase (iNOS) gene enzyme expression rather than to a direct inhibitory action on enzyme activity. The secretion of the inflammatory cytokines interleukine-6 and TNF-a from LPS-stimulated murine macrophages was also significantly reduced (p < 0.05 and 0.01) by 50 and 100 microM of MA. In addition, reactive oxygen species were measured after stimulation with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA). Thus, pre-treatment with MA reduced the generation of hydrogen peroxide from stimulated macrophages in a dose-dependent manner (IC(50): 43.6 microM) as assayed by the oxidation of the peroxidase enzyme. However, no inhibitory effect on superoxide release, measured by the reduction of ferricytochrome c, was observed after the pretreatment with MA in the culture medium. These results suggest a potential biopharmaceutical use of this hydroxy-pentacyclic triterpene derivative, present in orujo olive oil, on preventing oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokine generation.

Food sources of nitrates and nitrites: the physiologic context for potential health benefits

The presence of nitrates and nitrites in food is associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal cancer and, in infants, methemoglobinemia. Despite the physiologic roles for nitrate and nitrite in vascular and immune function, consideration of food sources of nitrates and nitrites as healthful dietary components has received little attention. Approximately 80% of dietary nitrates are derived from vegetable consumption; sources of nitrites include vegetables, fruit, and processed meats. Nitrites are produced endogenously through the oxidation of nitric oxide and through a reduction of nitrate by commensal bacteria in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. As such, the dietary provision of nitrates and nitrites from vegetables and fruit may contribute to the blood pressure-lowering effects of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. We quantified nitrate and nitrite concentrations by HPLC in a convenience sample of foods. Incorporating these values into 2 hypothetical dietary patterns that emphasize high-nitrate or low-nitrate vegetable and fruit choices based on the DASH diet, we found that nitrate concentrations in these 2 patterns vary from 174 to 1222 mg. The hypothetical high-nitrate DASH diet pattern exceeds the World Health Organization's Acceptable Daily Intake for nitrate by 550% for a 60-kg adult. These data call into question the rationale for recommendations to limit nitrate and nitrite consumption from plant foods; a comprehensive reevaluation of the health effects of food sources of nitrates and nitrites is appropriate. The strength of the evidence linking the consumption of nitrate- and nitrite-containing plant foods to beneficial health effects supports the consideration of these compounds as nutrients.

Wine, Resveratrol and Health: A Review

Several studies have cited the Mediterranean diet as an example of healthy eating. In fact, the Mediterranean diet has become the reference diet for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Red wine seems to be an essential component of the diet, since moderate consumption of wine is associated with lower risk and mortality from cardiovascular disease. Evidence is also accumulating that wine helps prevent the development of certain cancers. Of all the many components of wine, resveratrol, which is a natural component specifically present in wine, has been identified as being mainly responsible for these health-promoting properties. Many valuable properties such as cardioprotective and anticarcinogenic activity have been attributed to resveratrol; however, its bioavailability is quite low. The bioactivity of metabolites derived from resveratrol, and the accumulation of resveratrol in vital organs are still under study, but there are high expectations of positive results. Other stilbene compounds are also considered in this review, despite being present in undetectable or very small quantities in wine. The present paper reviews all aspects of the health properties of wine, bioactive compounds found in wine, and their concentrations, bioavailability and possible synergistic effects.

Bioactivity of Grape Chemicals for Human Health

Grapevine ( Vitis vinifera) products, grape and grape juice, represent a valuable source of bioactive phytochemicals, synthesized by three secondary metabolic pathways (phenylpropanoid, isoprenoid and alkaloid biosynthetic routes) and stored in different plant tissues. In the last decades, compelling evidence suggested that regular consumption of these products may contribute to reducing the incidence of chronic illnesses, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, ischemic stroke, neurodegenerative disorders and aging, in a context of the Mediterranean dietary tradition. The health benefits arising from grape product intake can be ascribed to the potpourri of biologically active chemicals occurring in grapes. Among them, the recently discovered presence of melatonin adds a new element to the already complex grape chemistry. Melatonin, and its possible synergistic action with the great variety of polyphenols, contributes to further explaining the observed health benefits associated with regular grape product consumption.