Anti-obesity effects of chlorogenic acid and caffeine- lipid nanoparticles through PPAR-γ/C/EBP-ɑ pathways

Obesity is considered one of the most crucial health problems of the century. Therefore, reducing obesity is critically important. Caffeine (CF) and chlorogenic acid (CLA), which are substantial components in green bean coffee which maximize thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue. In our study, we have prepared CF, CLA, and CF + CLA loaded-solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) since the SLNs are cost-effective, tissue-localized, and highly stable. The central composite design model was preferred to select the optimized formulation. UHPLC was used for quantification related to the CF and CLA amounts. The high-pressure homogenization (HPH) method was used while SLN formulations were prepared in the presence of poloxamer® 407 (surfactant) and Compritol® 888 ATO (solid lipid). The nanoparticles were characterized, followed by the utilization of 3T3-F442A cell lines for the evaluation of the adipogenesis activity of the formulations. Then, rt-PCR and ELISA studies of adipogenic markers were conducted. After optimal formulations were selected with an average of 110.2 ± 0.1 nm, CF (1 mM) + CLA (0.5 mM)-loaded SLN formulation has been proven significantly effective by using PPAR-γ/C/EBP-a pathways. In a nutshell, our study has shown that CF + CLA loaded-SLN has been affected 45.8% times more than regular extracted coffee (p < 0.05) on the adipocyte cells.

Metabolites of endophytic fungi isolated from leaves of Bauhinia variegata exhibit antioxidant activity and agonist activity on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors α, β/δ and γ

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and is linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. Thiazolidinediones (TZD) improve insulin sensitization and glucose homeostasis mediated by the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors γ (PPARγ) in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, their use is associated with severe adverse effects such as loss of bone mass, retention of body fluids, liver and heart problems, and increased risk of bladder cancer. Partial PPARγ agonists can promote the beneficial effects of thiazolidinediones with fewer adverse effects. Endophytic fungi colonize plant tissues and have a particularly active metabolism caused by the interaction with them, which leads to the production of natural products with significant biological effects that may be like that of the colonized plant. Here, we identify seven endophytic fungi isolated from Bauhinia variegata leaves that have antioxidant activities. Also, one of the extracts presented pan-agonist activity on PPAR, and another showed activity in PPARα and PPARβ/δ. A better understanding of this relationship could help to comprehend the mechanism of action of antioxidants in treating diabetes and its complications. Moreover, compounds with these capabilities to reduce oxidative stress and activate the receptor that promotes glucose homeostasis are promising candidates in treatment of diabetes.

The magical smell and taste: Can coffee be good to patients with cardiometabolic disease?

Coffee is a beverage consumed globally. Although few studies have indicated adverse effects, it is typically a beneficial health-promoting agent in a range of diseases, including depression, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. Coffee is rich in caffeine, antioxidants, and phenolic compounds, which can modulate the composition of the gut microbiota and mitigate both inflammation and oxidative stress, common features of the burden of lifestyle diseases. This review will discuss the possible benefits of coffee on complications present in patients with diabetes, cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease, outwith the social and emotional benefits attributed to caffeine consumption.

Screening for anti-adipogenic, pro-lipolytic and thermogenic plant extracts by models associating intestinal epithelial cells with human adipose cells

Purpose

Excessive fat mass accumulation in obesity leads to diverse metabolic disorders, increased risks of cardiovascular diseases and in some cases, mortality. The aim of this study was to screen the actions of botanical extracts intended for oral use on human adipose tissue, using an in vitro screening model combining human intestinal cells with human adipose cells. This was to find the most effective extracts on lipid accumulation, UCP1 expression and ATP production in pre-adipocytes and on adipocyte lipolysis.

Methods

In this study, 25 individual plant extracts were screened for their effects on human adipose cells. Consequently, an original in vitro model was set up using the Caco-2 cell line, to mimic the intestinal passage of the extracts and then exposing human adipose cells to them. The biological actions of extracts were thus characterized, and compared with a coffee extract standard. The most effective extracts, and their combinations, were retained for their actions on lipid accumulation, the expression of the thermogenic effector UCP1 and ATP production in pre-adipocytes as well as on lipolysis activity of mature adipocytes.

Results

The biphasic culture system combining human Caco-2 cells with human adipose cells was verified as functional using the green coffee extract standard. Out of the 25 plant extracts studied, only 7 and their combinations were retained due to their potent effects on adipose cells biology. The data showed that compared to the coffee extract standard, Immortelle, Catechu, Carrot and Rose hip extracts were the most effective in reducing lipid accumulation and increased UCP1 expression in human pre-adipocytes.

Conclusion

This study reveals the potential inhibitory effects on lipid accumulation and thermogenic activity of Immortelle, Catechu, Carrot and Rose hip extracts, and for the first time synergies in their combinations, using an in vitro model mimicking as closely as possible, human intestinal passage linked to adipose cells. These findings need to be confirmed by in vivo trials.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00394-021-02794-8.

Chlorogenic acid and caffeine combination attenuates adipogenesis by regulating fat metabolism and inhibiting adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells

Obesity is a complex disease spreading in the world. In our previous studies, chlorogenic acid (CGA) and caffeine had ever been reported to reduce the body weight gain and fat accumulation in mice. This study investigated the anti-obesity effect of CGA and caffeine on 3T3-L1 cells. According to triglyceride (TG) assay and Oil-Red O staining, 40 μg/ml CGA and 160 μg/ml caffeine reduced TG content. Moreover, CGA + caffeine inhibited the mRNA expression of major adipogenic markers, PPAR-γ2, and C/EBPα in the metaphase and anaphase stages of differentiation induction (Day 2 and 4). CGA + caffeine improved P-AMPK/AMPK accompanied by decreasing the expression of GPDH and FAS to depress the lipid synthesis, increasing the mRNA expression of ACO and CAT to promote fatty acid oxidation and up-regulated the expression of hydrolysis-related enzyme adipose TG lipase (ATGL) and P-HSL/HSL. Furthermore, CGA + caffeine improved the expression of Glut4 which promoted the glucose transport. Taken together, these data demonstrated CGA + caffeine inhibited 3T3-L1 cells differentiation in the middle and late stages and reduced the fat accumulation through AMPK pathway by regulating the fat metabolism-related enzyme in 3T3-L1 cells to attenuates adipogenesis. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The aim of this study was to elucidate the potential role of chlorogenic acid and caffeine in the treatment of obesity.

Alliin inhibits adipocyte differentiation by downregulating Akt expression: Implications for metabolic disease

Obesity is currently an important health problem and is associated with an increased likelihood of various diseases. The efficacies of various natural treatments have been assessed for their utility in treating obesity. Alliin (S-allyl-L-cysteine sulfoxides) is considered the major component of garlic and has a wide range of natural antioxidant properties. However, the direct effects of alliin on obesity have not been well clarified. The present study investigated the effects and possible mechanisms of alliin on adipocyte differentiation. The 3T3-L1 cells were treated with alliin (0-40 µg/ml) during adipogenic differentiation. The effect of alliin on lipid accumulation was evaluated by Oil red O staining. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR was performed to investigate the expression levels of adipogenic differentiation-related genes. The accumulation of lipid droplets was markedly inhibited following alliin treatment. The expression levels of multiple adipogenic transcription markers, such as CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP) β, C/EBP α and peroxisome proliferation-activity receptor γ, were markedly decreased following treatment with alliin during adipogenic differentiation. Expression levels of several adipocyte-related genes were subsequently suppressed. Additionally, alliin suppressed PKB/Akt and PI3K expression. These results suggested that alliin exhibits anti-adipogenic activity by downregulating major adipogenic differentiation-related genes and Akt/PI3K expression. Alliin may have a potential therapeutic effect on metabolic disease.

Effects of Essential Oils and Some Constituents from Ingredients of Anti-Cellulite Herbal Compress on 3T3-L1 Adipocytes and Rat Aortae

Cellulite is associated with a complex array of adipocytes under the skin and vascular system. A herbal compress that was previously developed was proven to have an anti-cellulite effect in healthy volunteers within 2 weeks of treatment. However, its mechanism and ingredients responsible for reducing cellulite were not known. The purpose of this study was to investigate the activity of eight essential oils in, and two water extracts from, the ingredients of the herbal compress together with nine monoterpenoid constituents on the 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The vasodilatory effect on rat aortae was also studied. The adipocytes were induced by dexamethasone, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine and insulin. At all concentrations tested, all essential oils, water extracts and their monoterpenoid constituents significantly inhibited lipid accumulation activity (p < 0.05) and decreased the amount of triglycerides when compared to untreated cells (p < 0.01). In addition, our results showed that the mixed oil distilled from the herbal compress mixed ingredients could relax the isolated rat aorta (EC₅₀ = 14.74 ± 2.65 µg/mL). In conclusion, all essential oils, extracts and chemical constituents tested showed effects on adipogenesis inhibition and lipolysis induction on the cultured adipocytes with the mixed oil demonstrating vasorelaxation activity, all of which might be the mechanisms of the anti-cellulite effects of the herbal compress.

Trigonelline induces browning in 3T3-L1 white adipocytes

Trigonelline, a major alkaloid component of fenugreek, has been demonstrated to have several biological activities, including antidiabetic and anticancer effects. This study aimed to examine the possible application of trigonelline as an anti-obesity compound based on an investigation of its enhancement of lipid catabolism and induction of browning in white adipocytes. Trigonelline induces browning of 3T3-L1 white adipocytes by enhancing the expressions of brown-fat signature proteins and genes as well as beige-specific genes, including Cd137, Cited1, Tbx1, and Tmem26. Trigonelline also improves lipid metabolism in white adipocytes by decreasing adipogenesis and lipogenesis as well as promotes lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation. Moreover, trigonelline increases the expression of Cox4, Nrf1, and Tfam genes that are responsible for mitochondrial biogenesis. Mechanistic studies revealed that the browning effect of trigonelline in 3T3-L1 white adipocytes is mediated by activating β3-AR and inhibiting PDE4, thereby stimulating the p38 MAPK/ATF-2 signaling pathway. Considering its high bioavailability in humans and the results of this study, trigonelline may have potential as an anti-obesity compound.

Anthocyanin-Enriched Riceberry Rice Extract Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes by Downregulating Adipogenic Transcription Factors and Their Targeting Genes

Riceberry rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a new pigmented variety of rice from Thailand. Despite its high anthocyanin content, its effect on adipogenesis and adipocyte function remains unexplored. We investigated whether Riceberry rice extract (RBE) impacted cell proliferation by examining viability and cell cycle, using preadipocyte 3T3-L1 cells. To test RBE's effect on adipocyte formation, cells were cultured in adipogenic medium supplemented with extract and adipocyte number and triglyceride levels were quantified. Furthermore, Akt1 phosphorylation along with RT-qPCR and intracellular calcium imaging were performed to obtain an insight into its mechanism of action. The effect of RBE on adipocyte function was investigated using glucose uptake and lipolysis assays. Treatment of cells with RBE decreased preadipocyte number without cytotoxicity despite inducing cell cycle arrest (p < 0.05). During adipogenic differentiation, RBE supplementation reduced adipocyte number and triglyceride accumulation by downregulating transcription factors (e.g., PPARγ, C/EBPα, and C/EBPβ) and their target genes (p < 0.05). The Akt1 phosphorylation was decreased by RBE but insignificance, however, the extract failed to increase intracellular calcium signals. Finally, the treatment of adipocytes with RBE reduced glucose uptake by downregulating Glut4 mRNA expression and enhanced isoproterenol-induced lipolysis (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that RBE could potentially be used in the treatment of obesity by inhibiting adipocyte formation and proliferation.

Daily Coffee and Green Tea Consumption Is Inversely Associated with Body Mass Index, Body Fat Percentage, and Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index in Middle-Aged Japanese Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

This study aimed to investigate the links between coffee (CF)/green tea (GT) consumption and body composition/cardiovascular parameters in middle-aged Japanese women. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 232 Japanese women aged 40-65 years who had been referred to the menopause clinic of Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital between November 2007 and August 2017. Body composition, cardiovascular parameters, and CF/GT consumption frequency were evaluated on their initial visits, using a body composition analyzer, vascular screening system, and brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire, respectively. We investigated the associations between variables using multivariate logistic regression. After adjustment for age, menopausal status, and other factors, daily CF consumption was inversely associated with high body mass index (BMI) (adjusted odds ratio, 0.14; 95% confidence interval, 0.14-0.96) and body fat percentage (BF%) (0.33; 0.14-0.82), and daily GT consumption with high BF% (0.36; 0.14-0.96). Daily CF + GT consumption was also inversely associated with high BMI (0.15; 0.05-0.50) and BF% (0.30; 0.12-0.74). In pre- and perimenopausal women, daily CF + GT consumption was inversely associated with high cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) (0.05; 0.003-0.743). In conclusion, daily CF/GT consumption was inversely associated with high BMI, BF%, and CAVI in middle-aged Japanese women.

Induction of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) mediated gene expression and inhibition of induced nitric oxide production by Maerua subcordata (Gilg) DeWolf

BACKGROUND

The health benefits of botanicals is linked to their phytochemicals that often exert pleiotropic effects via targeting multiple molecular signaling pathways such as the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and the nuclear factor kappaB (NFκB). The PPARs are transcription factors that control metabolic homeostasis and inflammation while the NF-κB is a master regulator of inflammatory genes such as the inducible nitric-oxide synthase that result in nitric oxide (NO) overproduction.

METHODS

Extracts of Maerua subcordata (MS) and selected candidate constituents thereof, identified by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectroscopy, were tested for their ability to induce PPARγ mediated gene expression in U2OS-PPARγ cells using luciferase reporter gene assay and also for their ability to inhibit lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced NO production in RAW264.7 macrophages. While measuring the effect of test samples on PPARγ mediated gene expression, a counter assay that used U2OS-Cytotox cells was performed to monitor cytotoxicity or any non-specific changes in luciferase activity.

RESULTS

The results revealed that the fruit, root, and seed extracts were non-cytotoxic up to a concentration of 30 g dry weight per litre (gDW/L) and induced PPARγ mediated gene expression but the leaf extract showed some cytotoxicity and exhibited minimal induction. Instead, all extracts showed concentration (1-15 gDW/L) dependent inhibition of LPS induced NO production. The root extract showed weaker inhibition. Among the candidate constituents, agmatine, stachydrine, trigonelline, indole-3-carboxyaldehyde, plus ethyl-, isobutyl-, isopropyl, and methyl-isothiocyanates showed similar inhibition, and most showed increased inhibition with increasing concentration (1-100 μM) although to a lesser potency than the positive control, aminoguanidine.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated for the first time the induction of PPARγ mediated gene expression by MS fruit, root, and seed extracts and the inhibition of LPS induced NO production by MS fruit, leaf, root, and seed extracts and some candidate constituents thereof.

Efficacy of chalcone and xanthine derivatives on lipase inhibition: A systematic review

Losing weight has significant impact on chronic disease management. Orlistat, a lipase inhibitor, has alternative effect for weight controlling. To find more candidates, we conducted a review of chalcone and xanthine derivatives regarding their anti-lipase activity. Eight databases were searched including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (ISI), Virtual Health Library (VHL), System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe (SIGLE), Global Health Library (GHL), EMBASE, and Google Scholar in August 2018. We found chalcone scaffold was more effective on lipase inhibition than xanthine scaffold. Among 19 investigated chalcones, only isoliquiritigenin and licuroside demonstrated an effect on preventing weight gain and increase in the total cholesterol and total triglycerides aside apart from their high activity on inhibiting lipase. Effect and type of inhibition of individual chalcones differed depending on their structure. In addition, very few studies investigated xanthine compounds and their activities were inconsistent. We suggest more studies investigate the ability of chalcones and modifying their structure to find out other compounds with higher efficacy.

Distinct Fractions of an Artemisia scoparia Extract Contain Compounds With Novel Adipogenic Bioactivity

Adipocytes are important players in metabolic health and disease, and disruption of adipocyte development or function contributes to metabolic dysregulation. Hence, adipocytes are significant targets for therapeutic intervention in obesity and metabolic syndrome. Plants have long been sources for bioactive compounds and drugs. In previous studies, we screened botanical extracts for effects on adipogenesis in vitro and discovered that an ethanolic extract of Artemisia scoparia (SCO) could promote adipocyte differentiation. To follow up on these studies, we have used various separation methods to identify the compound(s) responsible for SCO's adipogenic properties. Fractions and subfractions of SCO were tested for effects on lipid accumulation and adipogenic gene expression in differentiating 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Fractions were also analyzed by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS), and resulting peaks were putatively identified through high resolution, high mass accuracy mass spectrometry, literature data, and available natural products databases. The inactive fractions contained mostly quercetin derivatives and chlorogenates, including chlorogenic acid and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, which had no effects on adipogenesis when tested individually, thus ruling them out as pro-adipogenic bioactives in SCO. Based on these studies we have putatively identified the principal constituents in SCO fractions and subfractions that promoted adipocyte development and fat cell gene expression as prenylated coumaric acids, coumarin monoterpene ethers, 6-demethoxycapillarisin and two polymethoxyflavones.

Chlorogenic Acid Functions as a Novel Agonist of PPARγ2 during the Differentiation of Mouse 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes

Rosiglitazone (RG) is a well-known activator of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) and used to treat hyperglycemia and type 2 diabetes; however, its clinical application has been confounded by adverse side effects. Here, we assessed the roles of chlorogenic acid (CGA), a phenolic secondary metabolite found in many fruits and vegetables, on the differentiation and lipolysis of mouse 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. The results showed that CGA promoted differentiation in vitro according to oil red O staining and quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays. As a potential molecular mechanism, CGA downregulated mRNA levels of the adipocyte differentiation-inhibitor gene Pref1 and upregulated those of major adipogenic transcriptional factors (Cebpb and Srebp1). Additionally, CGA upregulated the expression of the differentiation-related transcriptional factor PPARγ2 at both the mRNA and protein levels. However, following CGA intervention, the accumulation of intracellular triacylglycerides following preadipocyte differentiation was significantly lower than that in the RG group. Consistent with this, our data indicated that CGA treatment significantly upregulated the expression of lipogenic pathway-related genes Plin and Srebp1 during the differentiation stage, although the influence of CGA was weaker than that of RG. Notably, CGA upregulated the expression of the lipolysis-related gene Hsl, whereas it did not increase the expression of the lipid synthesis-related gene Dgat1. These results demonstrated that CGA might function as a potential PPARγ agonist similar to RG; however, the impact of CGA on lipolysis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes differed from that of RG.

Euglena extract suppresses adipocyte-differentiation in human adipose-derived stem cells

Euglena gracilis Z (Euglena) is a unicellular, photosynthesizing, microscopic green alga. It contains several nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and unsaturated fatty acids. In this study, to verify the potential role of Euglena consumption on human health and obesity, we evaluated the effect of Euglena on human adipose-derived stem cells. We prepared a Euglena extract and evaluated its effect on cell growth and lipid accumulation, and found that cell growth was promoted by the addition of the Euglena extract. Interestingly, intracellular lipid accumulation was inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis and western blotting analysis indicated that the Euglena extract suppressed adipocyte differentiation by inhibiting the gene expression of the master regulators peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and one of three CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBPα). Further Oil Red O staining experiments indicated that the Euglena extract inhibited the early stage of adipocyte-differentiation. Consistent with these results, we observed that down-regulation of gene expression was involved in the early stage of adipogenesis represented by the sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 c (SREBP1c), two of three CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBPβ, C/EBPδ), and the cAMP regulatory element-binding protein (CREB). Taken together, these data suggest that Euglena extract is a promising candidate for the development of a new therapeutic treatment for obesity.

Molecular mechanisms of the anti-obesity effect of bioactive compounds in tea and coffee

Obesity is a serious health problem in adults and children worldwide. However, the basic strategies for the management of obesity (diet, exercise, drugs and surgery) have limitations and side effects. Therefore, many researchers have sought to identify bioactive components in food. Tea and coffee are the most frequently consumed beverages in the whole world. Their health benefits have been studied for decades, especially those of green tea. The anti-obesity effect of tea and coffee has been studied for at least ten years. The results have shown decreased lipid accumulation in cells via the regulation of the cell cycle during adipogenesis, changes in transcription factors and lipogenesis-related proteins in the adipose tissue of animal models, and decreased body weight and visceral fat in humans. Tea and coffee also influence the gut microbiota in obese animals and humans. Although the anti-obesity mechanism of tea and coffee still needs further clarification, they may have potential as a new strategy to prevent or treat obesity.

Coffee Decreases the Risk of Endometrial Cancer: A Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies

AIM

The aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive meta-analysis of the association between coffee consumption and risk of endometrial cancer.

METHODS

Eligible studies were identified by searching the PubMed and EMBASE databases. The dose-response relationship as well as the risk of endometrial cancer for the highest versus the lowest categories of coffee consumption were assessed. Subgroup analyses considering the menopausal and receptor statuses, the smoking status, and the BMI (Body Mass Index) were performed in order to identify potential confounders.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 12 studies eligible for meta-analysis. A dose-response meta-analysis showed a decreased risk of endometrial cancer. Moreover, a subgroup analysis indicated that coffee consumption is significantly associated with a decreased risk of postmenopausal cancer. Increasing coffee consumption by four cups per day was associated with a 20% reduction in endometrial cancer risk (relative risk (RR) 0.80; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.72 to 0.89) and with a 24% reduction in postmenopausal cancer risk (RR 0.76; 95% CI 0.69 to 0.83).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that increased coffee consumption is associated with decreased risk of endometrial cancer, and this association is observed also for postmenopausal cancer.

Effect of matrix stiffness on the proliferation and differentiation of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a compatible cellular alternative for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering because of their powerful multipotency. Matrix stiffness plays a profound role on stem cell behavior. Nevertheless, the effect of matrix stiffness on umbilical cordmesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) remains unexplored. To conduct an in-depth exploration, we cultured UC-MSCs on different stiffness (Young's modulus: 13-16, 35-38, 48-53, and 62-68 kPa) polyacrylamide gels coated with fibronectin. We found that the proliferation and adhesion of UC-MSCs varied when cultured on the different matrices, and the spreading capacity was stronger as the stiffness increased (*P<0.05). Real-time quantitative PCR results showed that the soft matrix promoted adipogenic differentiation, with higher expression levels of adipocytic markers like PPARγ and C/EBPα (*P<0.05). In contrast, cells tended to differentiate into muscle when cultured on the 48-53 kPa matrix, which was validated by increased expression of myogenic makers like desminand MOYG (*P<0.05). Moreover, increased expression of osteoblastic makers (*P<0.05), such as ALP, collagen type I, osteocalcin, and Runx2, confirmed that cells differentiated into bone on the high-stiffness matrix.

Gene-Diet Interactions in Type 2 Diabetes: The Chicken and Egg Debate

Consistent evidence from both experimental and human studies indicates that Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex disease resulting from the interaction of genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Nutrients and dietary patterns are important environmental factors to consider in the prevention, development and treatment of this disease. Nutritional genomics focuses on the interaction between bioactive food components and the genome and includes studies of nutrigenetics, nutrigenomics and epigenetic modifications caused by nutrients. There is evidence supporting the existence of nutrient-gene and T2DM interactions coming from animal studies and family-based intervention studies. Moreover, many case-control, cohort, cross-sectional cohort studies and clinical trials have identified relationships between individual genetic load, diet and T2DM. Some of these studies were on a large scale. In addition, studies with animal models and human observational studies, in different countries over periods of time, support a causative relationship between adverse nutritional conditions during in utero development, persistent epigenetic changes and T2DM. This review provides comprehensive information on the current state of nutrient-gene interactions and their role in T2DM pathogenesis, the relationship between individual genetic load and diet, and the importance of epigenetic factors in influencing gene expression and defining the individual risk of T2DM.

Coffee extract inhibits adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocyes by interrupting insulin signaling through the downregulation of IRS1

Although epidemiological data have indicated that a strong negative association exists between coffee consumption and the prevalence of obesity-associated diseases, the molecular mechanisms by which coffee intake prevents obesity-associated diseases has not yet been elucidated. In this study, we found that coffee intake significantly suppressed high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic alternations such as increases in body weight and the accumulation of adipose tissue, and up-regulation of glucose, free fatty acid, total cholesterol and insulin levels in the blood. We also found that coffee extract significantly inhibited adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. In the early phase of adipogenesis, 3T3-L1 cells treated with coffee extract displayed the retardation of cell cycle entry into the G2/M phase called as mitotic clonal expansion (MCE). Coffee extract also inhibited the activation of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ) by preventing its phosphorylation by ERK. Furthermore, the coffee extract suppressed the adipogenesis-related events such as MCE and C/EBPβ activation through the down-regulation of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1). The stability of the IRS1 protein was markedly decreased by the treatment with coffee extract due to proteasomal degradation. These results have revealed an anti-adipogenic function for coffee intake and identified IRS1 as a novel target for coffee extract in adipogenesis.

Roasting Enhances the Anti-Cataract Effect of Coffee Beans: Ameliorating Selenite-Induced Cataracts in Rats

PURPOSE

Coffee is a widely consumed beverage. While recent studies have linked its intake to a reduced risk of cataracts, caffeine is believed to be the key factor for its effect. To know how roasting beans affects the effect of coffee on cataract formation, we investigated the impact roasting using a selenite-induced cataract rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sprague Dawley rats were given a single injection of sodium selenite, which induced formation of nuclear cataracts by day 6, with or without coffee intake (100% coffee, 0.2 mL/day) for following 3 days.

RESULTS

The concentrations of glutathione (GSH) and ascorbic acid (AsA) in selenite-induced cataract lenses declined to half that of controls. However, 3 days of coffee intake ameliorated the reduction of GSH and AsA so that concentrations remained at 70-80% that of controls. Roasting enhanced the preventive effect of coffee by further reducing cataract formation and ameliorating selenite-induced reduction of antioxidants. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed degradation of chlorogenic acid and generation of pyrocatechol during the coffee roasting process. We discovered that pyrocatechol, at doses equivalent to that found in dark-roasted coffee, was equally effective as caffeine at reducing cataract formation and ameliorating the reduction of antioxidants.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that pyrocatechol, generated during the roasting process, acts as an antioxidant together with caffeine to prevent cataract formation.

Anti-adipogenic effect of Glycoside St-E2 and Glycoside St-C1 isolated from the leaves of Acanthopanax henryi (Oliv.) Harms in 3T3-L1 cells

Acanthopanax henryi (Oliv.) Harms has been used in the treatment of arthritis, rheumatism, and abdominal pain. This study evaluated whether natural compounds isolated from the leaves of A. henryi (Oliv.) Harms could inhibit adipocyte differentiation by regulating transcriptional factors such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα). AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity was also evaluated. Among the several compounds isolated from the leaves of A. henryi (Oliv.) Harms, Glycoside St-C1 and Glycoside St-E2 significantly decreased lipid accumulation and the expressions of PPARγ and C/EBPα. Glycoside St-C1 and Glycoside St-E2 were found to activate AMPK when they regulated PPARγ and C/EBPα. Results confirmed that Glycoside St-C1 and Glycoside St-E2 isolated from the leaves of A. henryi (Oliv.) Harms can inhibit adipogenesis through the AMPK-PPARγ-C/EBPα mechanism. Thus, this study suggests that Glycoside St-C1 and Glycoside St-E2 have a therapeutic effect due to activation of the AMPKα.

A proline-type fullerene derivative inhibits adipogenesis by preventing PPARγ activation

Obesity and its associated metabolic diseases represent some of the most rapidly expanding health issues worldwide, and, thus, the development of a novel chemical compound to suppress adipogenesis is strongly expected. We herein investigated the effects of water-soluble fullerene derivatives: a bis-malonic acid derivative and three types of proline-type fullerene derivatives, on adipogenesis using NIH-3T3 cells overexpressing PPARγ. One of the proline-type fullerene derivatives (P3) harboring three carboxy groups significantly inhibited lipid accumulation and the expression of adipocyte-specific genes, such as aP2, induced by the PPARγ agonist rosiglitazone. On the other hand, the bis-malonic acid derivative (M) and the 2 other proline-type fullerene derivatives (P1, P2), which have two carboxy groups, had no effect on PPARγ-mediated lipid accumulation or the expression of aP2. P3 fullerene also inhibited lipid accumulation induced by the combined stimulation with 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), dexamethasone, and insulin in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. During the differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells into adipocytes, P3 fullerene did not affect the expression of C/EBPδ, C/EBPβ, or PPARγ, but markedly inhibited that of aP2 mRNA. These results suggest that P3 fullerene exhibits anti-obesity activity by preventing the activation of PPARγ.

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Fullerene derivative inhibits the rosiglitazone-induced adipogenesis.

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Fullerene derivative inhibits the rosiglitazone-induced expression of aP2 mRNA.

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Fullerene derivative inhibits adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 preadipocyte.

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Fullerene derivative inhibits the activation of PPARγ in 3T3-L1 preadipocyte.

Coffee provides a natural multitarget pharmacopeia against the hallmarks of cancer

Coffee is the second most popular beverage in the world after water with a consumption of approximately two billion cups per day. Due to its low cost and ease of preparation, it is consumed in almost all countries and by all social classes of the population through different modes of preparation. Despites its simple appearance, a cup of coffee is in fact a complex mixture that contains hundreds of molecules, the composition and concentration of which vary widely and depend on factors including the origin of the coffee tree or its metabolism. Although an excessive consumption of coffee can be harmful, many molecules that are present in this black decoction exert anticancer properties. This review aims to describe the different primary coffee-containing substances that exert chemopreventive and bioactive activities against the different hallmarks and enabling characteristics of cancer, thus explaining the anticancer health benefit of black coffee.

Can metabolically healthy obesity be explained by diet, genetics, and inflammation?

A substantial proportion of obese individuals do not present cardiometabolic complications such as diabetes, hypertension, or dyslipidemia. Some, but not all, prospective studies observe similar risk of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality among individuals with this so-called "metabolically healthy obese" (MHO) phenotype, compared to the metabolically healthy normal weight or metabolically healthy non-obese phenotypes. Compared to the metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) phenotype, MHO is often characterized by a more favorable inflammatory profile, less visceral fat, less infiltration of macrophages into adipose tissue, and smaller adipocyte cell size. Tipping the inflammation balance in adipose tissue might be particularly important for metabolic health in the obese. While the potential role of genetic predisposition or lifestyle factors such as diet in the MHO phenotype is yet to be clarified, it is well known that diet affects inflammation profile and contributes to the functionality of adipose tissue. This review will discuss genetic predisposition and the molecular mechanisms underlying the potential effect of food on the development of the metabolic phenotype characteristic of obesity.