Chlorogenic acid stimulates glucose transport in skeletal muscle via AMPK activation: a contributor to the beneficial effects of coffee on diabetes

Effects of yacon on carbohydrates and lipid metabolism, oxidative-nitrative stress markers changes in rats with experimental metabolic syndrome

Background and aim

Smallanthus sonchifolius (Poepp. and Hendl.) H. Robinson, commonly known as yacon, is a medicinal species recognized for its therapeutic properties. The hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of yacon root tubers have been well-documented across various models of metabolic syndrome. However, research on the effects of biologically active compounds derived from yacon leaves remains limited. The aim of the study was to evaluate the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of an aqueous extract of yacon leaves under the fructose-induced experimental metabolic syndrome.

Experimental procedure

In the study were used male Wistar white rats, in which metabolic syndrome was induced by consuming a 10 % fructose solution. Animals were given an aqueous extract of yacon leaves at a dose of 500 mg per kilogram of body weight for seven and fourteen days following the establishment of metabolic syndrome. Hypoglycemic (glucose and glycosylate hemoglobin concentrations) and hypolipidemic (plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins and high-density lipoproteins levels) effects and antioxidant activity (activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, NO-synthase, the content of nitrite anion (NO₂‾) and nitrate anion (NO₃‾), content of carbonyl groups and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) of extract were then evaluated.

Results

The 14 days use of aqueous extract of yacon for the treatment of fructose-induced metabolic syndrome leads to a decrease of animals' body weight (59.94 %), glucose concentration (10.33 %), glycosylated hemoglobin content (61.58 %), blood plasma triglycerides (50.35 %), cholesterol (24.46 %), low-density lipoproteins (21.56 %), as well as to increase in high-density lipoproteins concentration (29.29 %), paraoxonase activity (56.03 %). In animals with experimental MetS yacon cause oxidative-nitrative stress indicators normalization: increase in SOD (47.85 %) and GPO activity (16.55 %); decrease in TBARS content (23.77 %) and proteins oxidative modification products of neutral character (52.56 %); decrease in NOS activity (12.30 %), which was accompanied by a decrease in nitrate content (10.44 %).

Conclusions

The aqueous extract of yacon demonstrates significant hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects in a fructose-induced model of experimental metabolic syndrome, contributing to the normalization of both prooxidant and antioxidant states in rat erythrocytes.

Nutraceuticals and Supplements in Management of Prediabetes and Diabetes

Dysglycemia is a condition preceding diabetes mellitus. The two situations inherent in this condition are called impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). If one of these situations is found in the patient, after the advice of an appropriate diet and physical activity, the addition of nutraceuticals or supplements can be considered, which can stop or delay the progression to diabetes mellitus over time. The purpose was to compile a systematic review about the use of nutraceuticals for treating diabetes and prediabetes and to offer a valuable resource for colleagues working on this crucial subject, thereby improving patient health. The added value of the paper compared to other reviews is that it was written by experts appointed by five different scientific societies dealing with diabetes, nutrition, and complications.

Effects of coffee and tea consumption on glioma risk: An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

BACKGROUND

Coffee and tea are considered to have some effects on the risk of glioma as one of the most prevalent intracranial malignant tumors in adults. However, the precise effect of coffee and tea consumption on glioma is not obvious. This umbrella review aimed to evaluate the impact of tea and coffee consumption on glioma risk.

METHODS

Three online databases containing Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed were thoroughly searched from the beginning to February 23, 2024 with no language constraints. Relying on I2 and Q statistics, a random-effect model or a fixed-effect model was applied. The PICO structure was followed as Population (Patients with glioma), Intervention (Coffee and tea consumption), Comparison (Standard treatment or placebo), and Outcome (Risk of glioma).

RESULTS

Totally, seven meta-analyses and systematic reviews contain 23,591 patients were included in this umbrella review. Coffee and tea consumption led to significant 15% and 16% reductions in glioma risk, respectively (RR = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.74, 0.98; RR = 0.84; 95% CI: 0.79, 0.89). The results did not change after subgroup analyses.

CONCLUSION

This umbrella review revealed that the coffee and tea consumption may decrease the glioma risk. Consumption of tea and coffee may be considered as dietary strategies against glioma.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION CODE

CRD42024521525.

Harnessing Prebiotics to Improve Type 2 Diabetes Outcomes

The gut microbiota, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms in the human gastrointestinal tract (GI), plays a crucial role in maintaining metabolic health and influencing disease susceptibility. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in gut microbiota, has been linked to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through mechanisms such as reduced glucose tolerance and increased insulin resistance. A balanced gut microbiota, or eubiosis, is associated with improved glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications. Various strategies, including the use of prebiotics like inulin, fructooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, resistant starch, pectic oligosaccharides, polyphenols, β-glucan, and Dendrobium officinale have been shown to improve gut microbial composition and support glycemic control in T2DM patients. These prebiotics can directly impact blood sugar levels while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, thus enhancing glycemic control. Studies have shown that T2DM patients often exhibit a decrease in beneficial butyrate-producing bacteria, like Roseburia and Faecalibacterium, and an increase in harmful bacteria, such as Escherichia and Prevotella. This review aims to explore the effects of different prebiotics on T2DM, their impact on gut microbiota composition, and the potential for personalized dietary interventions to optimize diabetes management and improve overall health outcomes.

Suppressive Effect of Coffee Leaves on Lipid Digestion and Absorption In Vitro

BACKGROUND

Coffee leaves are a major source of bioactive components and are used as ethnomedicine. However, despite their traditional medicinal use, information about their effects on antihyperlipidemia remains limited.

METHODS

The aims of this study were to evaluate the main components of leaf extracts from Arabica and Robusta coffees and to examine the potential of these coffee leaves in reducing lipid digestion and absorption in vitro.

RESULTS

Coffee leaf extracts from Arabica coffee contain a high amount of caffeine, whereas extracts from Robusta coffee contain high amounts of chlorogenic acid (CGA) and caffeine. Additionally, leaf extracts from Arabica and Robusta coffee demonstrated the inhibition of pancreatic lipase, decreased micellar cholesterol solubility, and reduced bile acid binding. Furthermore, these extracts resulted in a reduction in cholesterol uptake in Caco-2 cells. Molecular docking experiments supported this discovery, showing CGA and caffeine binding to Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1), a key protein in cholesterol absorption. The results indicated that CGA and caffeine can competitively bind to NPC1L1 at the cholesterol binding pocket, reducing its cholesterol binding rate. These findings suggest that coffee leaves might help suppress lipid absorption and digestion, highlighting their potential use in preventing and treating hyperlipidemia.

Agro-Industrial By-Products of Plant Origin: Therapeutic Uses as well as Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity

The importance of bioactive compounds in agro-industrial by-products of plant origin lies in their direct impacts on human health. These compounds have been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, contributing to disease prevention and strengthening the immune system. In particular, the antimicrobial action of these compounds emerges as an important tool in food preservation, providing natural alternatives to synthetic preservatives and contributing to combating antimicrobial resistance. Using agro-industrial by-products of plant origin not only addresses the need to reduce waste and promote sustainability but also inaugurates a new era in the formulation of functional foods. From fruit peels to pulps and seeds, these by-products are emerging as essential ingredients in the creation of products that can promote health. Continued research in this area will unveil new applications and properties of these by-products and open doors to a food paradigm in which health and sustainability converge, paving the way to a healthier and more equitable future. The present review presents an overview of our knowledge of agro-industrial by-products and some of their more relevant health-promoting bioactivities.

A combined extract containing Schisandra chinensis (SCE) reduced hepatic triglyceride accumulation in rats fed a high-sucrose diet

Excessive hepatic lipid accumulation is closely linked to inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndromes. We hypothesized that a combined extract containing Schisandra chinensis (SCE) could alleviate hepatic lipid accumulation. Male Sprague-Dawley rats fed a high-sucrose diet (HSD) were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 6): normal diet (ND), HSD (60% kcal from sucrose), and HSD + SCE (HSD with 2.44% SCE). Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry revealed that SCE contains chlorogenic acid (5.514 ± 0.009 mg/g) and schisandrin (0.179 ± 0.002 mg/g) as bioactive components. SCE did not alter the body weight, fat mass, lean mass, or glucose levels. Strikingly, SCE effectively reduced the plasma triglyceride (TG) and hepatic TG levels compared to the HSD group. Adiposity reduction is due to decreased activity of hepatic de novo lipogenic enzymes. These results indicated that SCE has nutraceutical potential for the prevention and treatment of hepatic steatosis.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-023-01464-1.

Implications of metabolism on multi-systems healthy aging across the lifespan

Aging is increasingly thought to involve dysregulation of metabolism in multiple organ systems that culminate in decreased functional capacity and morbidity. Here, we seek to understand complex interactions among metabolism, aging, and systems-wide phenotypes across the lifespan. Among 2469 adults (mean age 74.7 years; 38% Black) in the Health, Aging and Body Composition study we identified metabolic cross-sectionally correlates across 20 multi-dimensional aging-related phenotypes spanning seven domains. We used LASSO-PCA and bioinformatic techniques to summarize metabolome-phenome relationships and derive metabolic scores, which were subsequently linked to healthy aging, mortality, and incident outcomes (cardiovascular disease, disability, dementia, and cancer) over 9 years. To clarify the relationship of metabolism in early adulthood to aging, we tested association of these metabolic scores with aging phenotypes/outcomes in 2320 participants (mean age 32.1, 44% Black) of the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. We observed significant overlap in metabolic correlates across the seven aging domains, specifying pathways of mitochondrial/cellular energetics, host-commensal metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Across four metabolic scores (body composition, mental-physical performance, muscle strength, and physical activity), we found strong associations with healthy aging and incident outcomes, robust to adjustment for risk factors. Metabolic scores for participants four decades younger in CARDIA were related to incident cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurocognitive performance, as well as long-term cardiovascular disease and mortality over three decades. Conserved metabolic states are strongly related to domain-specific aging and outcomes over the life-course relevant to energetics, host-commensal interactions, and mechanisms of innate immunity.

Chlorogenic Acid: A Systematic Review on the Biological Functions, Mechanistic Actions, and Therapeutic Potentials

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a type of polyphenol compound found in rich concentrations in many plants such as green coffee beans. As an active natural substance, CGA exerts diverse therapeutic effects in response to a variety of pathological challenges, particularly conditions associated with chronic metabolic diseases and age-related disorders. It shows multidimensional functions, including neuroprotection for neurodegenerative disorders and diabetic peripheral neuropathy, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-pathogens, mitigation of cardiovascular disorders, skin diseases, diabetes mellitus, liver and kidney injuries, and anti-tumor activities. Mechanistically, its integrative functions act through the modulation of anti-inflammation/oxidation and metabolic homeostasis. It can thwart inflammatory constituents at multiple levels such as curtailing NF-kB pathways to neutralize primitive inflammatory factors, hindering inflammatory propagation, and alleviating inflammation-related tissue injury. It concurrently raises pivotal antioxidants by activating the Nrf2 pathway, thus scavenging excessive cellular free radicals. It elevates AMPK pathways for the maintenance and restoration of metabolic homeostasis of glucose and lipids. Additionally, CGA shows functions of neuromodulation by targeting neuroreceptors and ion channels. In this review, we systematically recapitulate CGA's pharmacological activities, medicinal properties, and mechanistic actions as a potential therapeutic agent. Further studies for defining its specific targeting molecules, improving its bioavailability, and validating its clinical efficacy are required to corroborate the therapeutic effects of CGA.

The Perfect Cup? Coffee-Derived Polyphenols and Their Roles in Mitigating Factors Affecting Type 2 Diabetes Pathogenesis

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a growing health concern with an estimated 462 million people having been diagnosed worldwide. T2D is characterized by chronically elevated blood glucose and insulin resistance, which culminate in a diminished function of the β-cell mass in its later stages. This can be perpetuated by and result in inflammation, excess reactive oxygen species production, obesity, and the dysregulation of multiple cellular pathways. Many naturally occurring small molecules have been investigated in terms of their roles in modulating glucose homeostasis and β-cell function. Many of these compounds can be found in commonly used sources of food and drink. Interestingly, a correlation has been observed between coffee consumption and T2D incidence. However, the specific compounds responsible for this correlation and their mechanisms are still somewhat undetermined. This paper reviews recent research findings on the effects of several polyphenols that are either found in coffee or are metabolites of compounds found in coffee (enterodiol, enterolactone, matairesinol, secoisolariciresinol, kaempferol, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid) on glucose homeostasis and health complications associated with glucose dysregulation, with a special emphasis on their potential anti-diabetic effects. The factors that affect polyphenol content in coffee are also addressed.

Comprehensive and critical view on the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory role of natural phenolic antioxidants

The immune response encompasses innate and adaptive immunity, each with distinct and specific activities. The innate immune system is constituted by phagocytic cells, macrophages, monocytes and neutrophils, the cascade system, and different classes of receptors such as toll-like receptors that are exploited by the innate immune cells. The adaptive immune system is antigen-specific, encompassing memory lymphocytes and the corresponding specific receptors. Inflammation is understood as an activation of different signaling pathways such as toll-like receptors or nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, with an increase in nitric oxide, inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Increased oxidative stress has been identified as main source of chronic inflammation. Phenolic antioxidants modulate the activities of lymphocytes and macrophages by impacting cytokines and nitric oxide release, exerting anti-inflammatory effect. The nuclear-factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells signaling pathway and the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway are targeted, alongside an increase in nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor mediated antioxidant response, triggering the activity of antioxidant enzymes. The inhibitive potential on phospholipase A2, cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase in the arachidonic acid pathway, and the subsequent reduction in prostaglandin and leukotriene generation, reveals the potential of phenolics as inflammation antagonists. The immunomodulative potential encompasses the capacity to interfere with proinflammatory cytokine synthesis and with the expression of the corresponding genes. A diet rich in antioxidants can result in prevention of inflammation-related pathologies. More investigations are necessary to establish the role of these antioxidants in therapy. The appropriate delivery system and the prooxidant effects exhibited at large doses, or in the presence of heavy metal cations should be regarded.

Solanum melongena extract supplementation protected skeletal muscle and brain damage by regulation of BDNF/PGC1α/irisin pathway via brain function-related myokines in high-fat diet induced obese mice

In this study, we investigated the protective effects of SM on skeletal muscle and brain damage by regulation of BDNF/PGC1α/irisin pathway via brain function related myokines in high-fat diet-induced OB mice. OB was induced by high-fat diet for 6 weeks. SM extract (SME) was administered with 200 mg/kg BW (LSM) and 500 mg/kg BW (HSM) by oral gavage every day for 12 weeks. Behavior tests such as grip strength, Y-maze, and passive avoidance test were conducted to analyze muscle and cognitive function. Histopathological changes in skeletal muscle and brain were examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining and the protein levels of biomarkers related to oxidative stress, inflammation, protein degradation, neuro-plasticity, and cell cycling were measured by western blot. SME regulated morphological changes (muscle cross-sectional area: 1.23%, 1.40%; density of neurons in hippocampus:1.74%, 1.73%) in T2DM mice. Importantly, SME supplementation significantly increased several muscle-derived myokines which might influence the expression of neuronal markers in OB mice (FGF21: 1.27%, 1.34%; PGC1α: 1.0%, 1.32%; IRISIN: 1.9%, 1.08%; BDNF: 1.35%, 1.23%). Accordingly, SME activated hippocampal neurotrophic factors including BDNF (1.0%, 1.2%) and its associated PGC1α/irisin pathway (PGC1α :1.1%, 1.1%; IRISIN:1.1%, 0.9%) significantly. This study demonstrated the possibliy that protective myokines increased by SME supplementation may contribute to neuro-protection in OB mice. Taken together, the current study suggests that SME can be used to prevent skeletal muscle and brain damage in OB by protecting against oxidative stress and inflammatin via modulation of the BDNF/PGC1α/irisin pathway in the therapeutic approach of obese patients.

Modulation of mitochondrial activity by sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) top extract and its bioactive polyphenols: a comprehensive transcriptomics analysis in C2C12 myotubes and HepG2 hepatocytes

Age-related mitochondrial dysfunction leads to defects in cellular energy metabolism and oxidative stress defense systems, which can contribute to tissue damage and disease development. Among the key regulators responsible for mitochondrial quality control, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) is an important target for mitochondrial dysfunction. We have previously reported that bioactive polyphenols extracted from sugarcane top (ST) ethanol extract (STEE) could activate neuronal energy metabolism and increase astrocyte PGC-1α transcript levels. However, their potential impact on the mitochondria activity in muscle and liver cells has not yet been investigated. To address this gap, our current study examined the effects of STEE and its polyphenols on cultured myotubes and hepatocytes in vitro. Rhodamine 123 assay revealed that the treatment with STEE and its polyphenols resulted in an increase in mitochondrial membrane potential in C2C12 myotubes. Furthermore, a comprehensive examination of gene expression patterns through transcriptome-wide microarray analysis indicated that STEE altered gene expressions related to mitochondrial functions, fatty acid metabolism, inflammatory cytokines, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, and cAMP signaling in both C2C12 myotubes and HepG2 hepatocytes. Additionally, protein-protein interaction analysis identified the PGC-1α interactive-transcription factors-targeted regulatory network of the genes regulated by STEE, and the quantitative polymerase chain reaction results confirmed that STEE and its polyphenols upregulated the transcript levels of PGC-1α in both C2C12 and HepG2 cells. These findings collectively suggest the potential beneficial effects of STEE on muscle and liver tissues and offer novel insights into the potential nutraceutical applications of this material.

Investigating the role of chlorogenic acids and coffee type in coffee-induced teeth discoloration

OBJECTIVE

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, with millions of people consuming it every day. The effect of coffee on teeth discoloration has long been a concern for both coffee drinkers and dental professionals. To address this concern, this study aimed to investigate the role of chlorogenic acids (CGAs) and the type of coffee in coffee-induced teeth discoloration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

High-performance liquid chromatography with a photodiode array detector was used to determine the CGA contents of instant coffee produced by five manufacturers (Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, Kanu, Ediya, Coffee Bean). A total of 180 bovine tooth specimens were immersed in the coffee samples for varying durations (3, 9, 24, 48, and 72 h), and the discoloration levels were measured using a spectrophotometer. A linear mixed-effects model analysis was used to determine the significance of L*, a*, and b* values in relation to the duration of coffee immersion and coffee type.

RESULTS

Both immersion time and coffee type had significant effects on tooth discoloration (p < 0.001), with some types of coffee being more strongly associated with tooth discoloration than others. The amount of CGAs present in coffee was found to be positively correlated with the degree of discoloration (p = 0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged exposure to coffee can exacerbate teeth staining, and different types of coffee can cause varying degrees of discoloration. Furthermore, coffee with higher levels of CGAs may lead to greater tooth discoloration.

Addressing the preventive and therapeutic perspective of berberine against diabetes

Diabetes has emerged as one the leading detrimental factors for human life expectancy worldwide. The disease is mainly considered as outcome of dysregulation in glucose metabolism, resulting in consistent high glucose concentration in blood. At initial stages, the diabetes particularly type 2 diabetes, is manageable by lifestyle interventions such as regular physical activity and diet with less carbohydrates. However, in advance stage, regular intake of external insulin dose and medicines like metformin are recommended. The long-term consumption of metformin is associated with several side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, lectic acidosis etc., In this scenario, several plant-based medicines have shown promising potential for the prevention and treatment of diabetes. Berberine is the bioactive compound present in the different plant parts of berberis family. Biochemical studies have shown that berberine improve insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion. Additionally, berberine induces glucose metabolism by activating AMPK signaling and inhibition of inflammation. A series of studies have demonstrated the antidiabetic potential of berberine at in vitro, pre-clinical and clinical trials. This review provides comprehensive details of preventive and therapeutic potential of berberine against diabetes.

Elucidation of anti-hyperglycemic activity of Psidium guajava L. leaves extract on streptozotocin induced neonatal diabetic Long-Evans rats

BACKGROUND

Psidium guajava L (Guava) belongs to the Myrtaceae family and has been claimed to possess several pharmacological properties including antidiabetic.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to evaluate the anti-hyperglycemic activity of P guajava L leaves aqueous extract on neonatal streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic model rats.

METHODS

Streptozotocin was induced (90 mg/kg) intraperitoneally to 48 h old Long Evans rat pups. After three months, 18 male type-2 diabetic model rats were confirmed by OGTT (FG > 7 mmol/L). Therefore, experimental rats were divided into three groups 2) Diabetic water control (10 ml/kg), 3) Gliclazide treated (20 mg/kg), and 4) Extract treated group (1.25g/kg)] Six normal female rats comprised group 1 [Non-diabetic water control (10 ml/kg)]. All rats were treated orally with their respective treatment for 28 consecutive days. Blood samples were collected on 0 days (by tail cut method) and the end day (by cardiac puncture) of the experiment. The anti-hyperglycemic activity was evaluated by measuring fasting glucose, serum insulin, lipid profile, hepatic glycogen content, and intestinal glucose absorption by standard methods.

RESULTS

The serum glucose level of extract treated group was decreased by 16% as well as significantly (p<0.05) increased the serum insulin level (M±SD, 0 day vs 28thday; 0.319 ± 0.110 vs 0.600 ± 0.348, μg/L). Moreover, the extract-treated group also significantly (p<0.05) enhanced liver glycogen content and inhibited glucose absorption from the upper intestine. Besides, a significant (p < 0.05) reduction of LDL-cholesterol level was found in the extract-treated group (M±SD, 55 ± 33 vs 14 ± 9, mg/dl) compared with baseline values where other groups did not show any statistically remarkable changes.

CONCLUSION

Current study concludes that P guajava leaves aqueous extract enhances insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells and promotes glycogen synthesis in the liver. The extract also inhibits glucose absorption from the upper intestine and improves dyslipidemia to some extent. Therefore, possesses the potential for drug development against T2DM.

Hepatoprotective effects of chlorogenic acid on mice exposed to aflatoxin B1: Modulation of oxidative stress and inflammation

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is widely distributed in crops and feeds, and ingestion of AFB1-contaminated crops is harmful to human/animal health. This study was designed to investigate hepatoprotective effects of chlorogenic acid (CGA), due to its excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, on mice exposed to AFB1. Male Kunming mice were orally fed with CGA prior to daily AFB1 exposure for 18 consecutive days. The results showed that CGA treatment reduced the serum activity of aspartate aminotransferase, hepatic malondialdehyde content and pro-inflammatory cytokines synthesis, prevented histopathological changes of the liver, increased hepatic glutathione level, catalase activity and IL10 mRNA expression in mice subjected to AFB1. Taken together, CGA exerted the protective effect on AFB1-induced hepatic damage by modulating redox status and inflammation, suggesting that CGA may be a candidate compound for the treatment of aflatoxicosis.

Effect of Supplementation with Coffee and Cocoa By-Products to Ameliorate Metabolic Syndrome Alterations Induced by High-Fat Diet in Female Mice

Coffee and cocoa manufacturing produces large amounts of waste. Generated by-products contain bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suitable for treating metabolic syndrome (MetS). We aimed to compare the efficacy of aqueous extracts and flours from coffee pulp (CfPulp-E, CfPulp-F) and cocoa shell (CcShell-E, CcShell-F) to ameliorate MetS alterations induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Bioactive component content was assessed by HPLC/MS. C57BL/6 female mice were fed for 6 weeks with HFD followed by 6 weeks with HFD plus supplementation with one of the ingredients (500 mg/kg/day, 5 days/week), and compared to non-supplemented HFD and Control group fed with regular chow. Body weight, adipocyte size and browning (Mitotracker, confocal microscopy), plasma glycemia (basal, glucose tolerance test-area under the curve, GTT-AUC), lipid profile, and leptin were compared between groups. Cocoa shell ingredients had mainly caffeine, theobromine, protocatechuic acid, and flavan-3-ols. Coffee pulp showed a high content in caffeine, protocatechuic, and chlorogenic acids. Compared to Control mice, HFD group showed alterations in all parameters. Compared to HFD, CcShell-F significantly reduced adipocyte size, increased browning and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and normalized basal glycemia, while CcShell-E only increased HDL. Both coffee pulp ingredients normalized adipocyte size, basal glycemia, and GTT-AUC. Additionally, CfPulp-E improved hyperleptinemia, reduced triglycerides, and slowed weight gain, and CfPulp-F increased HDL. In conclusion, coffee pulp ingredients showed a better efficacy against MetS, likely due to the synergic effect of caffeine, protocatechuic, and chlorogenic acids. Since coffee pulp is already approved as a food ingredient, this by-product could be used in humans to treat obesity-related MetS alterations.

The role of nutraceuticals in heart failure muscle wasting as a result of inflammatory activity. The International Lipid Expert Panel (ILEP) Position Paper

Muscle wasting is one of the main causes for exercise intolerance and ventilatory inefficiency in patients with heart failure and a strong predictor of frailty and reduced survival. The prevalence of sarcopenia is at least 20% in patients with heart failure. Patients with heart failure often have subclinical systemic inflammation, which may exert sustained effects on skeletal muscle. Besides exercise, nutrition should also be carefully evaluated as an appropriate diet with selected nutraceuticals may be able to stimulate muscle anabolism and inhibit muscle catabolism. This review summarizes the epidemiological and clinical trial evidence supporting the recommendations for the use of nutraceuticals with anti-inflammatory properties in heart failure and provides an overview of the state of the evidence for nutraceutical supplementation to prevent and/or mitigate heart failure muscle wasting.

Accounting Gut Microbiota as the Mediator of Beneficial Effects of Dietary (Poly)phenols on Skeletal Muscle in Aging

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and function increasing the risk of disability and adverse outcomes in older people, is substantially influenced by dietary habits. Several studies from animal models of aging and muscle wasting indicate that the intake of specific polyphenol compounds can be associated with myoprotective effects, and improvements in muscle strength and performance. Such findings have also been confirmed in a smaller number of human studies. However, in the gut lumen, dietary polyphenols undergo extensive biotransformation by gut microbiota into a wide range of bioactive compounds, which substantially contribute to bioactivity on skeletal muscle. Thus, the beneficial effects of polyphenols may consistently vary across individuals, depending on the composition and metabolic functionality of gut bacterial communities. The understanding of such variability has recently been improved. For example, resveratrol and urolithin interaction with the microbiota can produce different biological effects according to the microbiota metabotype. In older individuals, the gut microbiota is frequently characterized by dysbiosis, overrepresentation of opportunistic pathogens, and increased inter-individual variability, which may contribute to increasing the variability of biological actions of phenolic compounds at the skeletal muscle level. These interactions should be taken into great consideration for designing effective nutritional strategies to counteract sarcopenia.

Analysis of phytochemical composition and biological activities of Helichrysum pallasii (Sprengel) ledeb leaves

This study aimed at the investigation of in vitro biological activities (antioxidant and enzyme inhibition) and phytochemical composition of various extracts (ethanol maceration, aqueous infusion, and aqueous decoction) obtained from leaf organs of Helichrysum pallasii, which has been traditionally used as herbal tea and medicine in Eastern Anatolia. Experimental analysis showed that ethanol-based extract had higher total phenolic content (TPC: 103 mg GAE/gE) and showed superior antioxidant potentials (FRAP: 2205 μmol Fe2+/gE; ORAC: 2540 μmol Trolox Eq./gE; DPPH: IC50=0.58 mg/ml; CUPRAC: IC50=0.37 mg/ml; Phosphomolybdenum: IC50=1.34 mg/ml ve metal chelation: IC50=1.42 mg/ml) and enzyme inhibition (Acetylcholinesterase: IC50=1.49 mg/ml; Butyrylcholinesterase: IC50=1.98 mg/ml; Tyrosinase: IC50=0.68 mg/ml; Alpha-amylase: IC50=2.09 mg/ml; Alpha-glucosidase: IC50=0.51 mg/ml; and Pancreatic lipase: IC50=42.5 μg/ml) and contained higher amounts of phenolic (chlorogenic acid isomers and rutin) and fatty acid (palmitic, linoleic, and linolenic acids) compounds than traditional preparations (infusion and decoction). The current study's findings indicate that the leaves of the Helichrysum pallasii are a source of phytochemicals with strong antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory properties, implying that it could be a candidate for biotherapeutic agent research and development.

The Effect of Green Coffee Supplementation on Lipid Profile, Glycemic Indices, Inflammatory Biomarkers and Anthropometric Indices in Iranian Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous clinical syndrome. Recent studies examine different strategies to modulate its related complications. Chlorogenic acid, as a bioactive component of green coffee (GC), is known to have great health benefits. The present study aimed to determine the effect of GC on lipid profile, glycemic indices, and inflammatory biomarkers. Forty-four PCOS patients were enrolled in this randomized clinical trial of whom 34 have completed the study protocol. The intervention group (n = 17) received 400 mg of GC supplements, while the placebo group (n = 17) received the same amount of starch for six weeks. Then, glycemic indices, lipid profiles, and inflammatory parameters were measured. After the intervention period, no significant difference was shown in fasting blood sugar, insulin level, Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, Interleukin 6 or 10 between supplementation and placebo groups. However, cholesterol and triglyceride serum levels decreased significantly in the intervention group (p < 0.05). This research confirmed that GC supplements might improve some lipid profiles in women with PCOS. However, more detailed studies with larger sample sizes are required to prove the effectiveness of this supplement.

The role of selected nutraceuticals in management of prediabetes and diabetes: An updated review of the literature

Dysglycemia is a disease state preceding the onset of diabetes and includes impaired fasting glycemia and impaired glucose tolerance. This review aimed to collect and analyze the literature reporting the results of clinical trials evaluating the effects of selected nutraceuticals on glycemia in humans. The results of the analyzed trials, generally, showed the positive effects of the nutraceuticals studied alone or in association with other supplements on fasting plasma glucose and post-prandial plasma glucose as primary outcomes, and their efficacy in improving insulin resistance as a secondary outcome. Some evidences, obtained from clinical trials, suggest a role for some nutraceuticals, and in particular Berberis, Banaba, Curcumin, and Guar gum, in the management of prediabetes and diabetes. However, contradictory results were found on the hypoglycemic effects of Morus, Ilex paraguariensis, Omega-3, Allium cepa, and Trigonella faenum graecum, whereby rigorous long-term clinical trials are needed to confirm these data. More studies are also needed for Eugenia jambolana, as well as for Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus which glucose-lowering effects were observed when administered in combination, but not alone. Further trials are also needed for quercetin.

Effects of decaffeinated green coffee extract supplementation on anthropometric indices, blood glucose, leptin, adiponectin and neuropeptide Y (NPY) in breast cancer survivors: a randomized clinical trial

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of decaffeinated green coffee extract (DGCE) supplementation on anthropometric indices, blood glucose, leptin, adiponectin, and neuropeptide Y (NPY) in breast cancer survivors with obesity. Method: A total of 44 breast cancer survivors with obesity aged between 18 and 70 years and with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 31.62 ± 4.97 kg m^-2 participated in this double-blind randomized clinical trial. Eligible patients were randomized to the intervention (n = 22) and control (n = 22) groups. They received two 400 mg capsules of DGCE or two identical placebos daily for 12 weeks. Serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, NPY, fasting blood sugar, insulin, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were measured at the baseline and after completion of the intervention. Also, weight, waist circumference, fat percentage, muscle percentage, and visceral fat were measured. Results: There were no significant differences in terms of changes of anthropometric indices and concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, NPY, and blood sugar between the two studied groups. Conclusion: Supplementation with DGCE in breast cancer survivors with obesity had no significant effect on anthropometric indices and blood glucose, leptin, adiponectin, and NPY levels.

Integrating experimental model, LC-MS/MS chemical analysis, and systems biology approach to investigate the possible antidiabetic effect and mechanisms of Matricaria aurea (Golden Chamomile) in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a heterogeneous disease with numerous abnormal targets and pathways involved in insulin resistance, low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, beta cell dysfunction, and epigenetic factors. Botanical drugs provide a large chemical space that can modify various targets simultaneously. Matricaria aurea (MA, golden chamomile) is a widely used herb in Middle Eastern communities for many ailments, including diabetes mellitus, without any scientific basis to support this tradition. For the first time, this study aimed to investigate the possible antidiabetic activity of MA in a type 2 diabetic rat model, identify chemical constituents by LC-MS/MS, and then elucidate the molecular mechanism(s) using enzyme activity assays, q-RTPCR gene expression analysis, network pharmacology analysis, and molecular docking simulation. Our results demonstrated that only the polar hydroethanolic extract of MA had remarkable antidiabetic activity. Furthermore, it improved dyslipidemia, insulin resistance status, ALT, and AST levels. LC-MS/MS analysis of MA hydroethanolic extract identified 62 compounds, including the popular chamomile flavonoids apigenin and luteolin, other flavonoids and their glycosides, coumarin derivatives, and phenolic acids. Based on pharmacokinetic screening and literature, 46 compounds were chosen for subsequent network analysis, which linked to 364 candidate T2DM targets from various databases and literature. The network analysis identified 123 hub proteins, including insulin signaling and metabolic proteins: IRS1, IRS2, PIK3R1, AKT1, AKT2, MAPK1, MAPK3, and PCK1, inflammatory proteins: TNF and IL1B, antioxidant enzymes: CAT and SOD, and others. Subsequent filtering identified 40 crucial core targets (major hubs) of MA in T2DM treatment. Functional enrichment analyses of the candidate targets revealed that MA targets were mainly involved in the inflammatory module, energy-sensing/endocrine/metabolic module, and oxidative stress module. q-RTPCR gene expression analysis showed that MA hydroethanolic extract was able to significantly upregulate PIK3R1 and downregulate IL1B, PCK1, and MIR29A. Moreover, the activity of the antioxidant hub enzymes was substantially increased. Molecular docking scores were also consistent with the networks’ predictions. Based on experimental and computational analysis, this study revealed for the first time that MA exerted antidiabetic action via simultaneous modulation of multiple targets and pathways, including inflammatory pathways, energy-sensing/endocrine/metabolic pathways, and oxidative stress pathways.

Green Coffee Bean Extract Normalize Obesity-Induced Alterations of Metabolic Parameters in Rats by Upregulating Adiponectin and GLUT4 Levels and Reducing RBP-4 and HOMA-IR

Obesity is a serious public health issue worldwide. Finding safe and efficacious products to reverse obesity has proven to be a difficult challenge. This study showed the effects of Coffea arabica or green coffee bean extract (GCBE) on obesity disorders and the improvement of obesity-induced insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and inflammation. The active constituents of GCBE were identified via high-performance liquid chromatography. Twenty-four male albino Wistar rats were divided into two groups. The first group (Group I) was fed a control diet, whereas the second group was fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for eight weeks till obesity induction. The second group was equally subdivided into Group II, which received HFD, and Group III, which received HFD + GCBE for another eight weeks. The body and organ weights of the animals were measured, and blood and adipose tissue samples were collected for analysis. The results indicated that the administration of GCBE significantly decreased the body and organ weights. Furthermore, it had an ameliorative effect on serum biochemical parameters. It dramatically reduced total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glucose, and insulin levels. In addition, an improvement in homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance and an enhancement of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were observed compared with the HFD group. In addition, the group treated with GCBE exhibited a marked increase in serum levels of adiponectin (an anti-inflammatory adipokine). In addition, a considerable reduction in adipocyte hypertrophy was found following GCBE treatment. Remarkably, the administration of GCBE resulted in a remarkable decrease in the expression of RBP4 (a pro-inflammatory cytokine), whereas an increase in GLLUT4 expression was observed in the adipose tissue. This improved insulin resistance in GCBE-administered HFD rats compared with other HFD rats. Our study showed that GCBE exhibits anti-obesity activity and may be used as a natural supplement to prevent and treat obesity and its associated disorders.

Mechanistic insights on burdock (Arctium lappa L.) extract effects on diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2 is amongst the most common chronic diseases, being responsible for various problems in humans and contributing to increased mortality rates worldwide. Fructooligosaccharide, which can be produced from the roots of burdock (Arctium lappa L.), has been shown to have a wide range of pharmacological proprieties, including antiviral, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, and antidiabetic effects. Moreover, burdock also contains chlorogenic acid, which has been used in traditional medicine as an antioxidant. Considering its natural origin and minimal toxicity, burdock fructooligosaccharides (BFO) has gained considerable attention from researchers owing its wide, efficient, and beneficial action against DM. Although the effectiveness of fructooligosaccharide and chlorogenic acid has been extensively discussed, limited information is available on the application of burdock for DM treatment. In this review, we discuss the beneficial contributions, and the recent in vitro and in vivo analytical findings on A. lappa extract as DM therapy.

Drug Discovery of Plausible Lead Natural Compounds That Target the Insulin Signaling Pathway: Bioinformatics Approaches

The growing smooth talk in the field of natural compounds is due to the ancient and current interest in herbal medicine and their potentially positive effects on health. Dozens of antidiabetic natural compounds were reported and tested in vivo, in silico, and in vitro. The role of these natural compounds, their actions on the insulin signaling pathway, and the stimulation of the glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4) insulin-responsive translocation to the plasma membrane (PM) are all crucial in the treatment of diabetes and insulin resistance. In this review, we collected and summarized a group of available in vivo and in vitro studies which targeted isolated phytochemicals with possible antidiabetic activity. Moreover, the in silico docking of natural compounds with some of the insulin signaling cascade key proteins is also summarized based on the current literature. In this review, hundreds of recent studies on pure natural compounds that alleviate type II diabetes mellitus (type II DM) were revised. We focused on natural compounds that could potentially regulate blood glucose and stimulate GLUT4 translocation through the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway. On attempt to point out potential new natural antidiabetic compounds, this review also focuses on natural ingredients that were shown to interact with proteins in the insulin signaling pathway in silico, regardless of their in vitro/in vivo antidiabetic activity. We invite interested researchers to test these compounds as potential novel type II DM drugs and explore their therapeutic mechanisms.

Synergistic antidiabetic activity of Taraxacum officinale (L.) Weber ex F.H.Wigg and Momordica charantia L. polyherbal combination

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus accounts for 90% of most diabetes cases. Many commercial drugs used to treat this disease come with adverse side effects and eventually fail to restore glucose homeostasis. Therefore, an effective, economical and safe antidiabetic remedy from dietary source is considered. Taraxacum officinale (L.) Weber ex F.H.Wigg and Momordica charantia L. were chosen since both are used for centuries as traditional medicine to treat various ailments and diseases. In this study, the antidiabetic properties of a polyherbal combination of T. officinale and M. charantia ethanol extracts are evaluated. The bioactive solvent extracts of the samples selected from in vitro antidiabetic assays; α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibition, and glucose-uptake in L6 muscle cells were combined (1:1) to form the polyherbal combination. The antidiabetic efficacy of polyherbal combination was evaluated employing the above stated in vitro antidiabetic assays and in vivo oral glucose tolerance test and streptozotocin-nicotinamide (STZ-NA) induced diabetic rat model. A quadrupole time-of-flight liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (Q-TOF LCMS) analysis was done to identify active compounds. The polyherbal combination exerted improved antidiabetic properties; increased DPP-4, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibition. The polyherbal combination tested in vivo on diabetic rats showed optimum blood glucose-lowering activity comparable to that of Glibenclamide and Metformin. This study confirms the polyherbal combination of T. officinale and M. charantia to be rich in various bioactive compounds, which exhibited antidiabetic properties. Therefore, this polyherbal combination has the potential to be further developed as complex phytotherapeutic remedy for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

AMPK Activity: A Primary Target for Diabetes Prevention with Therapeutic Phytochemicals

Diabetes is a metabolic syndrome characterized by inadequate blood glucose control and is associated with reduced quality of life and various complications, significantly shortening life expectancy. Natural phytochemicals found in plants have been traditionally used as medicines for the prevention of chronic diseases including diabetes in East Asia since ancient times. Many of these phytochemicals have been characterized as having few side effects, and scientific research into the mechanisms of action responsible has accumulated mounting evidence for their efficacy. These compounds, which may help to prevent metabolic syndrome disorders including diabetes, act through relevant intracellular signaling pathways. In this review, we examine the anti-diabetic efficacy of several compounds and extracts derived from medicinal plants, with a focus on AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity.

Synthesis and in vitro evaluation of chlorogenic acid amides as potential hypoglycemic agents and their synergistic effect with acarbose

Type 2 Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease considered one of the most severe global health emergencies. Chlorogenic acid (1) has been shown to delay intestinal glucose absorption by inhibiting the activity of α-glucosidase (α-Glu) and α-amylase (α-Amy). In the present work, eleven chlorogenic acid amides have been synthesized and evaluated for their antioxidant properties (as DPPH and ORAC) and inhibition activity towards the two enzymes and, with the aim to obtain dual-action antidiabetic agents. The two most promising hypoglycemic compounds, bearing a tertiary amine function on an alkyl chain (8) and a benzothiazole scaffold (11), showed IC₅₀ values lower than that of (1) (45.5 µM α-Glu; 105.2 µM α-Amy). Amides 8 and 11 were by far more potent α-Glu inhibitors than the antidiabetic drug acarbose (IC₅₀ = 268.4 µM) and about twice less active toward α-Amy than acarbose (IC₅₀ = 34.4 µM). Kinetics experiments on amides 8 and 11 indicated these compounds as mixed-type inhibitors of α-Glu with K'_i values of 13.3 and 6.3 µM, respectively. The amylase inhibition occurred with a competitive mechanism in the presence of 8 (K_i = 79.7 µM) and with a mixed-type mechanism with 11 (K_i = 19.1 µM; K'_i = 93.6 µM). Molecular docking analyses supported these results, highlighting the presence of additional binding sites in both enzymes. Fluorescence experiments confirmed the grater affinity of amides 8 and 11 towards the two enzymes respect to (1). Moreover, a significant enhancement in acarbose efficacy was observed when inhibition assays were performed adding acarbose and amide 11. The above outcomes pinpointed the benzothiazole-based amide 11 as a promising candidate for further studies on type 2 diabetes treatment, both alone or combined with acarbose.

Prunus avium L. (Sweet Cherry) By-Products: A Source of Phenolic Compounds with Antioxidant and Anti-Hyperglycemic Properties—A Review

Prunus avium L. (sweet cherry) is one of the most appreciated fruit due to its organoleptic and nutritional value. Interestingly, cherry leaves, stems, and flowers are agri-food by-products rich in bioactive compounds that are mostly still unexploited. Stems and leaves have been used in folk medicine since ancient times. Recently, cherry flowers have also proved to be an interesting source of compounds with therapeutic properties. Phenolic compounds, namely hydroxycinnamic acids and flavonoids, are the most present phytochemicals in P. avium fruits and their by-products. These compounds have shown a good antioxidant potential to prevent oxidative stress-related diseases and glycemic control, fundamental in preventing and controlling diabetes mellitus. The present review summarizes the main phenolics found in P. avium stems, leaves, and flowers as compared to their fruits and describes their antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic properties. Thus, these by-products are an accessible and low-cost source of bioactive constituents with interesting health-promoting properties, making their use promising in diabetes therapy.

The Association between Coffee Consumption and Risk of Colorectal Cancer in a Korean Population

This study was performed to investigate the association between coffee consumption and risk of colorectal cancer in a Korean population and examine whether the association can be altered by adjustment for intake of coffee additives. We conducted a case-control study involving 923 colorectal cancer cases and 1846 controls matched by sex and age (within 5 years). A semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to assess coffee intakes. High coffee consumption was associated with lower odds of developing colorectal cancer (≥3 cups/day vs. no drinks, OR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.49–0.96). When we additionally controlled for consumption of coffee additives including sugar and cream, the inverse association became stronger (≥3 cups/day vs. no drinks, OR = 0.22; 95% CI: 0.14–0.33), and a significant inverse linear trend was shown (P_trend < 0.0001). The inverse associations were observed for proximal (P_trend = 0.0001) and distal (P_trend = 0.0003) colon cancer, and rectal cancer (P_trend < 0.0001) in the stratified analysis by anatomical sub-sites. Regarding sex, inverse associations between coffee consumption and colorectal cancer were found for men (P_trend < 0.0001) and women (P_trend = 0.0021). In the stratified analysis by obese status of subjects, inverse linear trends were observed in both non-obese and obese people (P_trend < 0.0001). High coffee consumption may be associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer in the Korean population and the degree of decrease in the odds of developing colorectal cancer changes by adjustment for intake of coffee additives.

The Effect of Simulated In Vitro Digestion on Biological Activity of Viburnum opulus Fruit Juices

In the present study, an in vitro digestion method has been used to assay the influence of the physiological conditions in the mouth, stomach, and intestine on the stability and activity in different cell models of the main phenolic compounds from Viburnum opulus fresh juice (FJ), phenolic-rich juice (PJ), and the bioavailable fractions (DFJ and DPJ). The data obtained indicate that the V. opulus samples achieved after in vitro digestion had an influence on cellular glucose and lipid metabolism. The bioavailable fraction of both digested juices stimulated glucose uptake and decreased lipid accumulation by L6 myoblasts and HepG2 hepatocytes. Both DFJ and DPJ reduced the secretion of inflammatory cytokines by 3T3-L1 adipocytes: interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Simultaneously, DFJ and DPJ enhanced oxidative stress in MIN6 cells and decreased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). UPLC-MS analysis revealed qualitative and quantitative changes in hydroxycinnamic acids. In particular, the content of chlorogenic acid decreased drastically; its content in the bioavailable fraction was almost 7 times and 30 times lower than in the FJ and PJ, respectively. Our results suggested that although the phenolic compounds of V. opulus juices undergo transformation during digestion, they are still potent antioxidant agents with biological activity.

Protection against developing type 2 diabetes by coffee consumption: assessment of the role of chlorogenic acid and metabolites on glycaemic responses

Epidemiological studies show a convincing long-term and dose-dependent protection of coffee and decaffeinated coffee against developing type 2 diabetes. The mechanisms of this effect are still not understood even though several have been proposed, including a potential effect on blood glucose by chlorogenic acids. However, there is minimal effect of decaffeinated coffee on postprandial blood glucose and insulin when consumed with carbohydrates, although there may be effects on incretin hormones, but these have been measured in only a few studies. Although chlorogenic acids do not affect carbohydrate digestion directly, they may affect glucose absorption and subsequent utilisation, the latter through metabolites derived from endogenous pathways or action of the gut microbiota. To advance understanding of the protective effect of coffee chlorogenic acids, more chronic intervention studies are needed on decaffeinated coffee, coupled with mechanistic studies in vitro using more realistic concentrations of the relevant chlorogenic acid metabolites.

Pharmacological Insights into Halophyte Bioactive Extract Action on Anti-Inflammatory, Pain Relief and Antibiotics-Type Mechanisms

The pharmacological activities in bioactive plant extracts play an increasing role in sustainable resources for valorization and biomedical applications. Bioactive phytochemicals, including natural compounds, secondary metabolites and their derivatives, have attracted significant attention for use in both medicinal products and cosmetic products. Our review highlights the pharmacological mode-of-action and current biomedical applications of key bioactive compounds applied as anti-inflammatory, bactericidal with antibiotics effects, and pain relief purposes in controlled clinical studies or preclinical studies. In this systematic review, the availability of bioactive compounds from several salt-tolerant plant species, mainly focusing on the three promising species Aster tripolium, Crithmum maritimum and Salicornia europaea, are summarized and discussed. All three of them have been widely used in natural folk medicines and are now in the focus for future nutraceutical and pharmacological applications.

Dietary bioactive compounds as modulators of mitochondrial function

The increase in incidence and prevalence of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome, is a health problem worldwide. Nutritional strategies that can impact on mitochondrial activity represent a novel and effective option to modulate energy expenditure and energetic metabolism in cells and tissues and could be used as adjuvant treatments for metabolic-associated disorders. Dietary bioactive compounds also known as "food bioactives" have proven to exert multiple health benefits and counteract metabolic alterations. In the last years, it has been consistently reported that the modulation of mitochondrial function represents one of the mechanisms behind the bioactive compounds-dependent health improvements. In this review, we focus on gathering, summarizing, and discussing the evidence that supports the effect of dietary bioactive compounds on mitochondrial activity and the relation of these effects in the pathological context. Despite the evidence presented here on in vivo and in vitro effects, more studies are needed to determine their effectiveness in humans.

Comprehensive metabolomic, lipidomic and pathological profiles of baobab (Adansonia digitata) fruit pulp extracts in diabetic rats

Baobab fruit pulp Adansonia digitata (AD) has received attention due to its numerous nutritional and medicinal values. In the current study, tentative identification was performed due to limited information available on its phytochemical composition. Phytochemicals from AD fruit pulp were obtained using successive organic solvent fractionation. The LC-MSMS analysis led to identification of 91 metabolites from methanol, butanol and ethyl acetate extracts. Moreover, 20 compounds were identified in the petroleum ether extract based on high resolution ion masses. In vitro antidiabetic and antioxidant properties of selected extracts were investigated using enzyme activity and the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method, respectively. Biological screening of the antidiabetic effects of target extracts was performed against streptozotocin-induced diabetes in experimental animals, following daily oral treatment for 3 successive weeks. Serum glucose, insulin, adiponectin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), lipid peroxide, cholesterol and HDL levels were measured. Finally, histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations of pancreas were carried out. Results revealed that animal groups treated daily with butanol (BuOH) and petroleum ether extracts of AD (oil) exhibited a significant improvement in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism as well as antioxidant effect. Both extracts revealed superior effects with respect to the total (TT) and ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extracts. Histopathological and immunohistochemical findings supported these results, showing marked protection of the pancreas. Thus, baobab oil and butanolic extract of the fruit pulp protected animals against STZ-induced diabetic changes, in addition to attenuation of lipid peroxidation, hypercholesterolemia and oxidation.

Antidiabetic potential of dietary polyphenols: A mechanistic review

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that has caused enormous harm to the public health worldwide. In this study, we evaluated the potential of phenolic compounds on diabetes management, addressing their mechanisms of action, in addition to discussing the digestion, absorption, metabolism, bioavailability, and toxic effects of these compounds. The intake of phenolic compounds can play a fundamental role on diabetes management, since they can reduce blood glucose levels, oxidative stress, protein glycation, inhibit the activity of dipeptidyl peptidase - IV and other key enzymes related to carbohydrate metabolism, activate various biochemical pathways to improve pancreatic β-cell functions, increase insulin secretion, and improve insulin resistance. In this way, they can be considered a potential strategy in the development of pharmaceutical approaches that aim to reduce complications resulting from the progression of this metabolic pathology.

Evaluation of antidiabetic activity of dietary phenolic compound chlorogenic acid in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats: Molecular docking, molecular dynamics, in silico toxicity, in vitro and in vivo studies

BACKGROUND

Chlorogenic acid is amongst the well-known polyphenolic compounds being used in human food and beverages. Its presence has been reported in tea leaves, roasted green beans, coffee, cocoa, berry fruits, apples, citrus fruits, and pears.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aims to elucidate the effectiveness of chlorogenic acid on in silico and in vitro inhibition of glucose metabolising enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) and on blood-based markers associated with diabetic complications in vivo.

METHODS

Docking and molecular dynamics studies were performed using GLIDE (Schrodinger, LLC, NY, 2019-2) and Maestro-Desmond Interoperability Tools, version 4.1 (Schrödinger, NY, 2015), respectively. α-Amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of chlorogenic acid were measured in vitro. Diabetes was induced in adult Wistar rats by injecting streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). Biochemical assays were performed using standard kits.

RESULT

The in silico studies for α-amylase and α-glucosidase with chlorogenic acid suggested that the ligand was stable and strongly bound with the above-mentioned proteins. During in vitro studies, chlorogenic acid inhibited both the enzymes in a dose-dependent manner (5-30 μg/mL). In addition, chlorogenic acid treatment for 28 days significantly suppressed the increase in blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, γ-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, creatinine, urea, uric acid, and feed intake levels in diabetic rats. Chlorogenic acid also caused significant improvement in body weight, serum HDL-cholesterol, total protein, and albumin levels leading to betterment in atherogenic indices related to diabetes-associated cardiovascular risks.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicated that chlorogenic acid inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase and significantly decreased diabetes associated hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hepatorenal damage, making it a possible functional food ingredient and drug candidate for the management of diabetes and related complications.

Antidiabetic and Renoprotective Effects of Coffea arabica Pulp Aqueous Extract through Preserving Organic Cation Transport System Mediated Oxidative Stress Pathway in Experimental Type 2 Diabetic Rats

Coffea arabica pulp (CP) is a by-product of coffee processing. CP contains polyphenols that have exhibited beneficial effects, including antioxidant and lipid-lowering effects, as well as enhanced insulin sensitivity, in in vitro and in vivo models. How polyphenols, as found in CP aqueous extract (CPE), affect type 2 diabetes (T2D) has not been investigated. Thus, the present study examined the potential antidiabetic, antioxidant, and renoprotective effects of CPE-rich polyphenols, using an experimental model of T2D in rats induced by a high-fat diet and a single low dose of streptozotocin. The T2D rats received either 1000 mg/kg body weight (BW) of CPE, 30 mg/kg BW of metformin (Met), or a combination treatment (CPE + Met) for 3 months. Plasma parameters, kidney morphology and function, and renal organic transport were determined. Significant hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, insulin resistance, increased renal lipid content and lipid peroxidation, and morphological kidney changes related to T2D were restored by both CPE and CPE + Met treatments. Additionally, the renal uptake of organic cation, ³H-1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP⁺), was reduced in T2D, while transport was restored by CPE and CPE + Met, through an up-regulation of antioxidant genes and protein kinase Cα deactivation. Thus, CPE has antidiabetic and antioxidant effects that potentially ameliorate kidney function in T2D by preserving renal organic cation transport through an oxidative stress pathway.

Dietary Strategies by Foods with Antioxidant Effect on Nutritional Management of Dyslipidemias: A Systematic Review

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in the prevention and treatment of dyslipidemias and its oxidative-related complications. Currently, there is evidence about the beneficial effects of isolated antioxidants or foods enriched or added with antioxidant compounds. However, the application of the natural foods is more integrated than the analysis of a single nutrient. Our aim is compiling scientific literature regarding the nutritional strategies by foods with antioxidant effect in blood lipids, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, and oxidative and inflammatory markers of subjects with dyslipidemia. We searched in MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. From a total of 263 studies screened, 16 were included. Dietary strategies included walnuts, olive oil, raw almonds, G. paraguayase, white sesame, mate tea, Brazil nut flour, red wine, granulated Brazil nuts, grapes, wolfberry fruit, fermented beverage, coffee, orange, and blackberry juices showed significant differences in blood lipids, antioxidant activity, antioxidant enzymes, and oxidative and inflammatory markers. This systematic review compiling scientific studies about dietary strategies using foods with antioxidant effect to improve the antioxidant status in dyslipidemias.

A pharmacological perspective of banana: implications relating to therapeutic benefits and molecular docking

Banana is one of the most nutritious fruits, as it is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, fatty acids, and minerals. Banana has been used in traditional medicines for managing coughs and colds, ulcers, burns, and diarrhea. Banana contains various bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, with reported therapeutic benefits, including antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial activities. The present review focuses on a comprehensive overview of the nutritional and biological properties and phytochemicals of different species of banana and its different parts. Although detailed characterization of the compounds that are present in many parts of the plant has been carried out, chemical profiling of the seed, pseudostem, and leaves of banana is lacking and requires further exploration. Moreover, the functions of the reported compounds were elucidated using computational tools, supporting their potential role in managing life-threatening diseases and physiological complications.

Secondary Metabolites in the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus: A Paradigm Shift

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic, polygenic and non-infectious group of diseases that occurs due to insulin resistance or its low production by the pancreas and is also associated with lifelong damage, dysfunction and collapse of various organs. Management of diabetes is quite complex having many bodily and emotional complications and warrants efficient measures for prevention and control of the same. As per the estimates of the current and future diabetes prevalence, around 425 million people were diabetic in 2017 which is anticipated to rise up to 629 million by 2045. Various studies have vaguely proven the fact that several vitamins, minerals, botanicals and secondary metabolites demonstrate hypoglycemic activity in vivo as well as in vitro. Flavonoids, anthocyanin, catechin, lipoic acid, coumarin metabolites, etc. derived from herbs were found to elicit a significant influence on diabetes. However, the prescription of herbal compounds depend on various factors, including the degree of diabetes progression, comorbidities, feasibility, economics as well as their ADR profile. For instance, cinnamon could be a more favorable choice for diabetic hypertensive patients. Diabecon®, Glyoherb® and Diabeta Plus® are some of the herbal products that had been launched in the market for the favorable or adjuvant therapy of diabetes. Moreover, Aloe vera leaf gel extract demonstrates significant activity in diabetes. The goal of this review was to inscribe various classes of secondary metabolites, in particular those obtained from plants, and their role in the treatment of DM. Recent advancements in recognizing the markers which can be employed for identifying altered metabolic pathways, biomarker discovery, limitations, metabolic markers of drug potency and off-label effects are also reviewed.

High-quality de novo assembly of the Eucommia ulmoides haploid genome provides new insights into evolution and rubber biosynthesis

We report the acquisition of a high-quality haploid chromosome-scale genome assembly for the first time in a tree species, Eucommia ulmoides, which is known for its rubber biosynthesis and medicinal applications. The assembly was obtained by applying PacBio and Hi-C technologies to a haploid that we specifically generated. Compared to the initial genome release, this one has significantly improved assembly quality. The scaffold N50 (53.15 MB) increased 28-fold, and the repetitive sequence content (520 Mb) increased by 158.24 Mb, whereas the number of gaps decreased from 104,772 to 128. A total of 92.87% of the 26,001 predicted protein-coding genes identified with multiple strategies were anchored to the 17 chromosomes. A new whole-genome duplication event was superimposed on the earlier γ paleohexaploidization event, and the expansion of long terminal repeats contributed greatly to the evolution of the genome. The more primitive rubber biosynthesis of this species, as opposed to that in Hevea brasiliensis, relies on the methylerythritol-phosphate pathway rather than the mevalonate pathway to synthesize isoprenyl diphosphate, as the MEP pathway operates predominantly in trans-polyisoprene-containing leaves and central peels. Chlorogenic acid biosynthesis pathway enzymes were preferentially expressed in leaves rather than in bark. This assembly with higher sequence contiguity can foster not only studies on genome structure and evolution, gene mapping, epigenetic analysis and functional genomics but also efforts to improve E. ulmoides for industrial and medical uses through genetic engineering.