Resveratrol and clinical trials: the crossroad from in vitro studies to human evidence

Resveratrol alleviates blast lung injury by modulating the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) via the PI3K/AKT pathway

Blast lung injury (BLI) is a major cause of death in blast injuries, largely due to pulmonary edema. Effective clearance of alveolar fluid is critical for resolving pulmonary edema, with the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) playing a key role in this process. Resveratrol (RES), a natural compound with known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown promise in treating respiratory diseases. However, its potential protective effects against BLI, particularly through ENaC modulation, remain unclear. In this study, complementary in vivo and in vitro models were used to investigate mechanisms underlying pulmonary edema following a gas explosion. We discovered that RES significantly alleviated BLI by decreasing pulmonary edema, pulmonary index, W/D ratio, oxidative stress, inflammatory cell infiltration, and TNF-α and IL-1β expression levels in rat lung tissue. RES upregulated the expression of ENaC and PI3K/AKT both in rats and in A549 cells. The knockout of the PI3K-p85 gene suppressed RES-induced upregulation of p-AKT and ENaC, reversing protein expression in A549 cells. Altogether, RES shows potential to attenuate blast-induced lung injury by upregulating ENaC, partly through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. This study highlights RES as a potential therapeutic agent for BLI and offers new insights into its mechanisms of action.

Unraveling the pathogenesis of bone marrow hematopoietic injury and the therapeutic potential of natural products

Bone marrow hematopoietic injury encompasses a range of pathological conditions that disrupt the normal function of the hematopoietic system, primarily through the impaired production and differentiation of bone marrow hematopoietic cells. Key pathogenic mechanisms include aging, radiation damage, chemical induction, infection and inflammation, and cross-talk with non-hematopoietic diseases. These pathological factors often lead to myelosuppression and myeloid skewing. Furthermore, we explored the potential and application prospects of natural products in the treatment of bone marrow hematopoietic injury. Natural products, particularly those derived from Chinese herbal medicines and other natural sources, have emerged as promising therapeutic options due to their distinctive mechanisms and minimal side effects. A deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of bone marrow hematopoietic injury could illuminate how natural products exert their effects, thereby optimizing treatment strategies and offering safer, more effective options for patients. Future research should leverage emerging technologies to further elucidate the composition and interactions within the bone marrow microenvironment, as well as the specific pathways through which natural products modulate hematopoietic dysfunction.

Resveratrol-driven macrophage polarization: unveiling mechanisms and therapeutic potential

Resveratrol, a polyphenolic compound known for its diverse biological activities, has demonstrated multiple pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and cardiovascular protective properties. Recent studies suggest that these effects are partly mediated through the regulation of macrophage polarization, wherein macrophages differentiate into pro-inflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. Our review highlights how resveratrol modulates macrophage polarization through various signaling pathways to achieve therapeutic effects. For example, resveratrol can activate the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) pathway and inhibit the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)-YAP signaling axes, promoting M1 polarization or suppressing M2 polarization, thereby inhibiting tumor growth. Conversely, it can promote M2 polarization or suppress M1 polarization by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway or activating the PI3K/Akt and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathways, thus alleviating inflammatory responses. Notably, the effect of resveratrol on macrophage polarization is concentration-dependent; moderate concentrations tend to promote M1 polarization, while higher concentrations may favor M2 polarization. This concentration dependence offers new perspectives for clinical treatment but also underscores the necessity for precise dosage control when using resveratrol. In summary, resveratrol exhibits significant potential in regulating macrophage polarization and treating related diseases.

Unveiling the antimicrobial, antivirulence, and wound-healing accelerating potentials of resveratrol against carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA)-septic wound in a murine model

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a repertoire of several virulence factors that create a frightening high pathogenicity level as well as high antimicrobial resistance toward commercially used antibiotics. Therefore, finding a new alternative to traditional antimicrobials is a must. Resveratrol is a very famous phytochemical that harbors many beneficial health properties by possessing antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The current study aimed to explore the antimicrobial efficacy of resveratrol against P. aeruginosa and explore its ability to accelerate wound healing in a murine model. The obtained results revealed the potent antimicrobial, antivirulence, and wound-healing accelerating potentials of resveratrol against carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa (CRPA)-septic wounds. It significantly lowered the transcript levels of P. aeruginosa virulent genes toxA, pelA, and lasB. Additionally, resveratrol significantly accelerated skin wound healing by shortening the inflammatory phase and promoting re-vascularization, cell proliferation, re-epithelialization, and collagen deposition. Furthermore, it increased the immunoexpression of αSMA along with a reduction of the mRNA levels of VEGF, IL-1β, and TNF-α genes. Resveratrol has high therapeutic potential for the treatment of P. aeruginosa wound infection and is a prospective and promising candidate for this problem.

The Role of Phytochemicals in Managing Neuropathic Pain: How Much Progress Have We Made?

Neuropathic pain is a complex and debilitating condition resulting from nerve damage, characterized by sensations such as burning, tingling, and shooting pain. It is often associated with conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), and diabetic polyneuropathy. Conventional pain therapies frequently provide limited relief and are accompanied by significant side effects, emphasizing the need to explore alternative treatment options. Phytochemicals, which are bioactive compounds derived from plants, have gained attention for their potential in neuropathic pain management due to their diverse pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. This review evaluates the mechanisms by which specific phytochemicals, such as curcumin, resveratrol, and capsaicin, influence neuropathic pain pathways, particularly their role in modulating inflammatory processes, reducing oxidative stress, and interacting with ion channels and signaling pathways. While curcumin and resveratrol are primarily considered dietary supplements, their roles in managing neuropathic pain require further clinical investigation to establish their efficacy and safety. In contrast, capsaicin is an active ingredient derived from chili peppers that has been developed into approved topical treatments widely used for managing neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain. However, not all phytochemicals have demonstrated consistent efficacy in managing neuropathic pain, and their effects can vary depending on the compound and the specific condition. The pathophysiology of neuropathic pain, involving maladaptive changes in the somatosensory nervous system, peripheral and central sensitization, and glial cell activation, is also outlined. Overall, this review emphasizes the need for continued high-quality clinical studies to fully establish the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals in neuropathic pain management.

Protective Effect of Resveratrol on Kidney Disease and Hypertension Against Microplastics Exposure in Male Juvenile Rats

Global pollution stems from the degradation of plastic waste, leading to the generation of microplastics (MPs). While environmental pollutants increase the risk of developing hypertension and kidney disease, the effects of MP exposure on these conditions in children remain unclear. Resveratrol, a phenolic compound known for its antihypertensive and renoprotective properties, has gained attention as a potential nutraceutical. This study investigates the effects of resveratrol on kidney disease and hypertension induced by MP exposure in a juvenile rat model. Three-week-old male Sprague--Dawley (SD) rats were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 8 per group): a control group, a low-dose MP group (1 mg/L), a high-dose MP group (10 mg/L), and a high-dose MP group receiving resveratrol (50 mg/L). By 9 weeks of age, MP exposure resulted in elevated blood pressure and increased creatinine levels, both of which were mitigated by resveratrol treatment. The hypertension and kidney damage induced by high-dose MP exposure were linked to oxidative stress, which resveratrol effectively prevented. Additionally, resveratrol's protective effects against hypertension and kidney damage were associated with increased acetic acid levels, reduced renal expression of Olfr78, and decreased expression of various components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Low- and high-dose MP exposure, as well as resveratrol treatment, differentially influence gut microbiota composition. Our findings suggest that targeting oxidative stress, gut microbiota, and the RAS through resveratrol holds therapeutic potential for preventing kidney disease and hypertension associated with MP exposure. However, further research is needed to translate these results into clinical applications.

Overview of resveratrol properties, applications, and advances in microbial precision fermentation

Resveratrol is an antioxidant abundant in plants like grapes and peanuts and has garnered significant attention for its potential therapeutic applications. This review explores its chemical attributes, stability, and solubility, influencing its diverse applications and bioavailability. Resveratrol's multifaceted therapeutic roles encompass: antioxidant, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-aging, and anticancer properties. While traditionally studied in preclinical settings, a surge in clinical trials underscores resveratrol's promise for human health. Over 250 recent clinical trials investigate its effects alone and in combination with other compounds. Commercially utilized in food, cosmetics, supplements, and pharmaceuticals, the resveratrol market is expanding, driven by microbial fermentation. Microbes offer advantages over plant extraction and chemical synthesis, providing cost-effective, pure, and sustainable production. Microbial biosynthesis can be attained from carbon sources, such as glucose or xylose, among others, which can be obtained from renewable resources or agro-industrial wastes. While Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been the most used host, non-conventional yeasts like Yarrowia lipolytica and bacteria like Escherichia coli have also demonstrated potential. Genetic modifications such as increasing acetyl-CoA/malonyl-CoA pools, boosting the shikimate pathway, or multi-copy expression of pathway genes, allied to the optimization of fermentation strategies have been promising in increasing titers. Microbial biosynthesis of resveratrol aligns with the shift toward sustainable and renewable bio-based compounds, exemplifying a circular bioeconomy. Concluding, microbial fermentation presents a promising avenue for efficient resveratrol production, driven by genetic engineering, pathway optimization, and fermentation strategies. These advances hold the key to unlocking the potential of resveratrol for diverse therapeutic applications, contributing to a greener and sustainable future.

Synergistic anticancer activity of resveratrol with cisplatin and carboplatin in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

This study looked at the efficacy of combining the phytochemical resveratrol with the anticancer drugs cisplatin and carboplatin on lung adenocarcinoma cell lines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used MTT assay and generation of Reactive Oxygen Species levels using molecular fluorogenic probe 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (H2DCFDA) to investigate the effects of resveratrol in combination with cisplatin and carboplatin on the proliferation and viability of cells and levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

RESULTS

Resveratrol has an anti-proliferative effect on A549 lung cancer cells, inhibiting cell proliferation in a dose and time-dependent manner. Resveratrol in conjunction with cisplatin and carboplatin inhibited cell proliferation synergistically. The combination therapy of cisplatin and carboplatin with Resveratrol showed enhanced growth inhibition of lung cancer cells in in-vitro with IC50 values of 15.09 ± 0.71 µM and IC50 values of 21.72 ± 1.9 µM, respectively. The present investigation also revealed the significant dose-dependent ROS generation in A549 cells by cisplatin, carboplatin, and their combination with resveratrol. Carboplatin treatment in combination with Resveratrol induced a higher generation of ROS (3.4-fold) when compared to carboplatin treatment (2.4-fold) at the highest concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings offered a basis for further research for assessing the potential of Resveratrol as a therapeutic agent to treat lung adenocarcinoma and whether it can be used as an adjuvant with drugs like cisplatin and carboplatin for improving their efficacies. However, the underlying processes of cell inhibition and cell death should be thoroughly investigated.

Red Wine Consumption and the Impact on Cardiovascular Health: The Methodological Barriers of Observational Study Design

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among communicable and noncommunicable diseases, and its prevalence is going to rise even more by 2030. The discovery of different "functional" foods containing a plethora of bioactive compounds is considered an ally in the effort to reduce the global CVD burden in the context of primary prevention. It has been about 3 decades since the observation that red wine consumption in French population could lead to lower coronary heart disease risk despite the high dietary consumption of saturated fats, known as the "French paradox." Since then, numerous epidemiological studies, mainly observational, have emerged in order to investigate this association with great enthusiasm. However, due to the nature of these studies, the scientific community has raised concerns about the methodological approach of the studies and thus the generalization of their results. Therefore, the current review aims to summarize some of the major methodological issues deriving from observational studies on the association between red wine consumption and cardiovascular health and to highlight the importance of higher quality study design in the general effort of drawing safer conclusions on this topic.

Perspective on the Coevolutionary Role of Host and Gut Microbiota in Polyphenol Health Effects: Metabotypes and Precision Health

"Personalized nutrition" aims to establish nutritional strategies to improve health outcomes for non-responders. However, it is utopian since most people share similar nutritional requirements. "Precision health," encompassing lifestyles, may be more fitting. Dietary (poly)phenols are "healthy" but non-nutritional molecules (thus, we can live without them). The gut microbiota influences (poly)phenol effects, producing metabolites with different activity than their precursors. Furthermore, producing distinctive metabolites, like urolithins, lunularin, and equol, leads to the term "polyphenol-related gut microbiota metabotypes," grouping individuals based on a genuine microbial metabolism of ellagic acid, resveratrol, and isoflavones, respectively. Additionally, (poly)phenols exert prebiotic-like effects through their antimicrobial activities, typically reducing microbial diversity and modulating microbiota functionality by impacting its composition and transcriptomics. Since the gut microbiota perceives (poly)phenols as a threat, (poly)phenol effects are mostly a consequence of microbiota adaptation through differential (poly)phenol metabolism (e.g., distinctive reductions, dehydroxylations, etc.). This viewpoint is less prosaic than considering (poly)phenols as essential nutritional players in human health, yet underscores their health significance in a coevolutionary partnership with the gut microbiota. In the perspective on the gut microbiota and (poly)phenols interplay, microbiota metabotypes could arbiter health effects. An innovative aspect is also emphasized: modulating the interacting microbial networks without altering the composition.

Dietary resveratrol improves immunity and antioxidant defense in ewes by regulating the rumen microbiome and metabolome across different reproductive stages

Introduction

Resveratrol (Res), a natural plant antitoxin polyphenol, is widely used in animal husbandry due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and current research has focused on humans, sows, and female mice. This study aimed to analyze the effects of dietary Res supplementation in ewes on antioxidant activity, immune responses, hormone levels, rumen microbiota and metabolites across various reproductive stages (estrus, pregnancy, and lactation).

Methods

Twenty-four healthy ewe lambs (Hu sheep, 2 months old) with a similar body weight (BW) (mean: 21.79 ± 2.09 kg) were selected and randomly divided into two groups: the control group (Con) and the Res group (Res). The Res group received 10 mg/kg Res (based on BW) in addition to their basal diet.

Results

Res increased the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol (E2) in ewes at sexual maturity (p < 0.05). Additionally, Res supplementation induced significant increases in serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), IgG, FSH, and LH levels during estrus (p < 0.05); serum IgA, IgG and IgM during pregnancy and lactation (p < 0.05); and serum LH, glucose, GSH-Px, and catalase (CAT) levels during lactation (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, serum interleukin 1β (IL-1β) (p =0.005) and cholesterol levels (p = 0.041) during the lactation stage decreased following Res supplementation. Notably, colostrum IgA, IgG, and fat concentrations were significantly higher in the Res group than in the Con group (p < 0.05). Moreover, Res altered the rumen microbiota in ewes. Specifically, the relative abundance of Prevotella (p < 0.05) during pregnancy and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group (p < 0.001) during lactation were significantly increased in ewes under Res treatment. The abundance of Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group was positively correlated with the levels of Ig A, Ig M, E2, FSH, LH, GSH-PX, and CAT. Additionally, Res altered the activity of metabolic pathways such as progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, the estrogen signaling pathway, ovarian steroidogenesis, and the AMPK signaling pathway, and the levels of AICAR and 2-hydroxyestradiol metabolites, both during pregnancy and lactation.

Discussion

There findings show that Res can improve health, antioxidant status, and immune activity throughout the reproductive cycle in ewes by regulating rumen microorganisms and metabolites.

Obesity Control and Supplementary Nutraceuticals as Cofactors of Brain Plasticity in Multiple Sclerosis Populations

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disease characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration within the central nervous system. Brain plasticity, the brain's ability to adapt its structure and function, plays a crucial role in mitigating MS's impact. This paper explores the potential benefits of lifestyle changes and nutraceuticals on brain plasticity in the MS population. Lifestyle modifications, including physical activity and dietary adjustments, can enhance brain plasticity by upregulating neurotrophic factors, promoting synaptogenesis, and reducing oxidative stress. Nutraceuticals, such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants like alpha lipoic acid, have shown promise in supporting brain health through anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective mechanisms. Regular physical activity has been linked to increased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and improved cognitive function. Dietary interventions, including caloric restriction and the intake of polyphenols, can also positively influence brain plasticity. Integrating these lifestyle changes and nutraceuticals into the management of MS can provide a complementary approach to traditional therapies, potentially improving neurological outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for the MS population.

Biomacromolecules as Immunomodulators: Utilizing Nature’s Tools for Immune Regulation

Although there are numerous available immunomodulators, those of natural origin would be preferable based on their safety profile and effectiveness. The research and clinical interest in immunomodulators have increased in the last decades, especially in the immunomodulatory properties of plant-based therapies. Innovative technologies and extensive study on immunomodulatory natural products, botanicals, extracts, and active moieties with immunomodulatory potential could provide us with valuable entities to develop as novel immunomodulatory medicines to enhance current chemotherapies. This review focuses on plant-based immunomodulatory drugs that are currently in clinical studies. However, further studies in this area are of utmost importance to obtain complete information about the positive effects of medicinal plants and their chemical components and molecules as an alternative to combatting various diseases and/or prevention.

Polyphenols and metabolism: from present knowledge to future challenges

A diet rich in polyphenols and other types of phytonutrients can reduce the occurrence of chronic diseases. However, a well-established cause-and-effect association has not been clearly demonstrated and several other issues will need to be fully understood before general recommendations will be carried out In the present review, some of the future challenges that the research on phenolic compounds will have to face in the next years are discussed: toxicological aspects of polyphenols and safety risk assessment; synergistic effects between different polyphenols; metabotype-based nutritional advice based on a differential gut microbial metabolism of polyphenols (precision nutrition); combination of polyphenols with other bioactive compounds; innovative formulations to improve the bioavailability of phenolic compounds; and polyphenols in sports nutrition and recovery.Other aspects related to polyphenol research that will have a boost in the next years are: polyphenol and gut microbiota crosstalk, including prebiotic effects and biotransformation of phenolic compounds into bioactive metabolites by gut microorganisms; molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and quantum and molecular mechanics studies on the protein-polyphenol complexes; and polyphenol-based coating films, nanoparticles, and hydrogels to facilitate the delivery of drugs, nucleic acids and proteins.In summary, this article provides some constructive inspirations for advancing in the research of the applications, risk assessment and metabolic effects of dietary polyphenols in humans.

Resveratrol as an adjuvant prebiotic therapy in the management of pulmonary thromboembolism

Pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) presents a grave threat to patient lives, often marked by arterial occlusion in the pulmonary vasculature, frequently stemming from deep vein thrombosis (DVT). While current anticoagulant therapies offer temporary relief, they fall short of addressing the long-term management of PTE. Notably, PTE-associated mortality rates continue to rise annually, positioning it as a crucial concern within the cardiovascular landscape. An intriguing suspect underlying compromised prognoses is the intricate interplay between the gut microbiome and PTE outcomes. The gut-derived metabolite, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), has emerged as a direct contributor to accelerated thrombogenesis, thereby heightening PTE susceptibility. In pursuit of remedies, research has delved into diverse prebiotic and probiotic interventions, with Resveratrol (RSV) emerging as a promising candidate. This paper explores the potential of RSV, a polyphenolic compound, as an adjuvant prebiotic therapy. The proposed therapeutic approach not only augments anticoagulant potency through strategic pharmacokinetic interactions but also introduces a novel avenue for attenuating future PTE incidents through deliberate gut microbiome modulation. RSV's multifaceted attributes extend beyond its role in PTE prevention. Recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties, RSV stands as a versatile therapeutic candidate. It exhibits the ability to curtail platelet aggregation, augment warfarin bioavailability, and mitigate pulmonary arterial wall thickening - an ensemble of effects that substantiate its potential as an adjunct prebiotic for PTE patients. This literature review weaves together the latest insights, culminating in a compelling proposition: RSV is an instrumental player in the trajectory of PTE management.

I A, Banerjee S. Deciphering the Chemotherapeutic Role of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Antagonist Resveratrol against the High-Penetrance Genes of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

In addition to several other malignancies, the ligand-activated aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling pathway has been found to enhance the risk of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Many natural compounds of pharmaceutical importance are identified as antagonistic exogenous ligands of AhR. The expressional lack of hormone receptors coupled with adverse prognosis leads to the absence of molecular-targeted therapy in TNBC. Hence, discovering low-cost therapeutic alternatives involving the identification of effective biomarkers is an urgent necessity. This study investigates the binding mechanism of resveratrol, a dietary exogenous AhR ligand against the high-penetrance genes in TNBC, viz., PALB2, TP53, PTEN, STK11, BRCA1, and BRCA2. Post-pharmacokinetic evaluation, molecular docking revealed the binding energy scores of resveratrol against the six TNBC high-penetrance receptors. The results obtained from docking were confirmed by molecular dynamics simulation including principal component analysis, calculation of total interaction energy, and free-energy landscape computation. PALB2 emerged as a promising therapeutic receptor of resveratrol. Furthermore, the PALB2-resveratrol binding dynamics were evaluated against olaparib, an FDA-approved standardized TNBC inhibitor. Our study reveals comparatively better chemistry of PALB2-resveratrol than PALB2-olaparib. Considering the current surge in the discovery of precision medicine in biomarker-based cancer therapeutics, this study proposes PALB2-resveratrol as a unique drug-receptor combination thus awaiting validation through in vitro studies.

Natural Stilbenes: Their Role in Colorectal Cancer Prevention, DNA Methylation, and Therapy

The resistance of colorectal cancer (CRC) to conventional therapeutic modalities, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, along with the associated side effects, significantly limits effective anticancer strategies. Numerous epigenetic investigations have unveiled that naturally occurring stilbenes can modify or reverse abnormal epigenetic alterations, particularly aberrant DNA methylation status, offering potential avenues for preventing or treating CRC. By modulating the activity of the DNA methylation machinery components, phytochemicals may influence the various stages of CRC carcinogenesis through multiple molecular mechanisms. Several epigenetic studies, especially preclinical research, have highlighted the effective DNA methylation modulatory effects of stilbenes with minimal adverse effects on organisms, particularly in combination therapies for CRC. However, the available preclinical and clinical data regarding the effects of commonly encountered stilbenes against CRC are currently limited. Therefore, additional epigenetic research is warranted to explore the preventive potential of these phytochemicals in CRC development and to validate their therapeutic application in the prevention and treatment of CRC. This review aims to provide an overview of selected bioactive stilbenes as potential chemopreventive agents for CRC with a focus on their modulatory mechanisms of action, especially in targeting alterations in DNA methylation machinery in CRC.

Nanophytomedicine: A promising practical approach in phytotherapy

The long and rich history of herbal therapeutic nutrients is fascinating. It is incredible to think about how ancient civilizations used plants and herbs to treat various ailments and diseases. One group of bioactive phytochemicals that has gained significant attention recently is dietary polyphenols. These compounds are commonly found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, spices, nuts, drinks, legumes, and grains. Despite their incredible therapeutic properties, one challenge with polyphenols is their poor water solubility, stability, and bioavailability. This means that they are not easily absorbed by the body when consumed in essential diets. Because of structural complexity, polyphenols with high molecular weight cannot be absorbed in the small intestine and after arriving in the colon, they are metabolized by gut microbiota. However, researchers are constantly working on finding solutions to enhance the bioavailability and absorption of these compounds. This study aims to address this issue by applying nanotechnology approaches to overcome the challenges of the therapeutic application of dietary polyphenols. This combination of nanotechnology and phytochemicals could cause a completely new field called nanophytomedicine or herbal nanomedicine.

Derivatization of Hyaluronan to Target Neuroblastoma and Neuroglioma Expressing CD44

Therapeutics for actively targeting over-expressed receptors are of great interest because the majority of diseased tissues originate from normal cells and do not possess a unique receptor from which they can be differentiated. One such receptor is CD44, which has been shown to be highly overexpressed in many breast cancers and other types of cancer cells. While CD44 has been documented to express low levels in normal adult neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, this receptor may be overexpressed by neuroblastoma and neuroglioma. If differential expression exists between normal and cancerous cells, hyaluronan (HA) could be a useful carrier that targets carcinomas. Thus, HA was conjugated with resveratrol (HA-R), and its efficacy was tested on cortical-neuroblastoma hybrid, neuroblastoma, and neuroglioma cells. Confocal and flow cytometry showed these cells express CD44 and are able to bind and uptake HA-R. The toxicity of HA-R correlated well with CD44 expression in this study. Therefore, conjugating resveratrol and other chemotherapeutics to HA could minimize the side effects for normal cells within the brain and nervous system and could be a viable strategy for developing targeted therapies.

Multidimensional biological activities of resveratrol and its prospects and challenges in the health field

Resveratrol (RES) is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound. Recent studies have identified multiple potential health benefits of RES, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anticancer, anti-diabetic, cardiovascular, and neuroprotective properties. The objective of this review is to summarize and analyze the studies on the biological activities of RES in disease prevention and treatment, as well as its metabolism and bioavailability. It also discusses the challenges in its clinical application and future research directions. RES exhibits significant potential in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. The future direction of RES research should focus on improving its bioavailability, conducting more clinical trials to determine its effectiveness in humans, and investigating its mechanism of action. Once these challenges have been overcome, RES is expected to become an effective health intervention.

A mechanistic insight into the anticancer potentials of resveratrol: Current perspectives

Resveratrol is a widely recognized polyphenolic phytochemical found in various plants and their fruits, such as peanuts, grapes, and berry fruits. It is renowned for its several health advantages. The phytochemical is well known for its anticancer properties, and a substantial amount of clinical evidence has also established its promise as a chemotherapeutic agent. This study focuses on assessing the anticancer properties of resveratrol and gaining insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms. It also evaluates the biopharmaceutical, toxicological characteristics, and clinical utilization of resveratrol to determine its suitability for further development as a reliable anticancer agent. Therefore, the information about preclinical and clinical studies was collected from different electronic databases up-to-date (2018-2023). Findings from this study revealed that resveratrol has potent therapeutic benefits against various cancers involving different molecular mechanisms, such as induction of oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, inhibition of cell migration and invasion, autophagy, arresting of the S phase of the cell cycle, apoptotic, anti-angiogenic, and antiproliferative effects by regulating different molecular pathways including PI3K/AKT, p38/MAPK/ERK, NGFR-AMPK-mTOR, and so on. However, the compound has poor oral bioavailability due to reduced absorption; this limitation is overcome by applying nanotechnology (nanoformulation of resveratrol). Clinical application also showed therapeutic benefits in several types of cancer with no serious adverse effects. We suggest additional extensive studies to further check the efficacy, safety, and long-term hazards. This could involve a larger number of clinical samples to establish the compound as a reliable drug in the treatment of cancer.

Resveratrol inhibits calcium oxalate crystal growth, reduces adhesion to renal cells and induces crystal internalization into the cells, but promotes crystal aggregation

Resveratrol is a natural phenolic compound that belongs to stilbenoid group found in diverse plants. Health benefits and therapeutic potentials of resveratrol have been widely recognized in various diseases. In kidney stone disease, it can alleviate oxalate-induced hyperproduction of free radicals in renal epithelial cells. Nevertheless, its direct effects on calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal, which is the major stone component, remained unclear. This study therefore addressed the direct effects of resveratrol (at 1, 10 or 100 μM) on each step of CaOx kidney stone formation. The results revealed that resveratrol had no significant effects on CaOx crystallization. However, resveratrol significantly decreased CaOx crystal growth and adhesion to renal epithelial cells at all concentrations, and induced crystal internalization into the cells (a process related to crystal degradation by endolysosomes) in a concentration-dependent manner. On the other hand, resveratrol promoted crystal aggregation. These data indicate that resveratrol serves as a dual modulator on CaOx stone formation. While it inhibits CaOx stone development by reducing crystal growth and adhesion to renal cells and by inducing crystal internalization into the cells, resveratrol promotes crystal aggregation, which is one of the mechanisms leading to kidney stone formation.

Recent progress in nanotechnology-based drug carriers for resveratrol delivery

Resveratrol is a polyphenol with diverse pharmacological activities, but its clinical efficacy is limited due to low solubility/permeability, light-induced isomerization, auto-oxidation, and rapid metabolism. Nanodelivery systems, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, lipid nanocarriers, micelles, nanocrystals, inorganic nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, protein-based nanoparticles, exosomes, macrophages, and red blood cells (RBCs) have shown great potential for improving the solubility, biocompatibility, and therapeutic efficacy of resveratrol. This review comprehensively summarizes the recent advances in resveratrol nanoencapsulation and describes potential strategies to improve the pharmacokinetics of existing nanoformulations, enhance targeting, reduce toxicity, and increase drug release and encapsulation efficiency. The article also suggests that in order to avoid potential safety issues, resveratrol nanoformulations must be tested in vivo in a wide range of diseases.

Unveiling metabotype clustering in resveratrol, daidzein, and ellagic acid metabolism: Prevalence, associated gut microbiomes, and their distinctive microbial networks

The gut microbiota (GM) produces different polyphenol-derived metabolites, yielding high interindividual variability and hampering consistent health effects. GM metabotypes associated with ellagic acid (urolithin metabotypes A (UMA), B (UMB), and 0 (UM0)), resveratrol (lunularin -producers (LP) and non-producers (LNP)), and daidzein (equol-producers (EP) and non-producers (ENP)) are known. However, individual polyphenol-related metabotypes do not occur individually. In contrast, different combinations coexist (i.e., metabotype clusters, MCs). We report here for the first time these MCs, their distribution, and their associated GM in adult humans (n = 127) after consuming for 7 days a nutraceutical (pomegranate, Polygonum cuspidatum, and red clover extracts) containing ellagitannins + ellagic acid, resveratrol, and isoflavones. Urine metabolites (UHPLC-QTOF-MS) and fecal microbiota (16S rRNA sequencing) were analyzed. Ten MCs were identified: LP + UMB + ENP (22.7%), LP + UMA + ENP (21.3%), LP + UMA + EP (16.7%), LP + UMB + EP (16%), LNP + UMA + ENP (11.3%), LNP + UMB + ENP (5.3%), LNP + UMA + EP (3.3%), LNP + UMB + EP (2%), LNP + UM0 + EP (0.7%), and LNP + UM0 + ENP (0.7%). Sex, BMI, and age did not affect the distribution of metabotypes or MCs. Multivariate analysis (MaAslin2) revealed genera differentially present in individual metabotypes and MCs. Network analysis (MENA) showed the taxa acting as module hubs and connectors. Compositional and functional profiling, alpha and beta diversities, topological network features, and GM modulation by the nutraceutical differed depending on whether the entire cohort or each MC was considered. The nutraceutical did not change the composition of LP + UMA + EP (the most robust GM with the most associated functions) but increased its network connectors. This pioneering approach, joining GM's compositional, functional, and network features in polyphenol metabolism, paves the way for identifying personalized GM-targeted strategies to improve polyphenol health benefits.

Resveratrol-Laden Nano-Systems in the Cancer Environment: Views and Reviews

The genesis of cancer is a precisely organized process in which normal cells undergo genetic alterations that cause the cells to multiply abnormally, colonize, and metastasize to other organs such as the liver, lungs, colon, and brain. Potential drugs that could modify these carcinogenic pathways are the ones that will be used in clinical trials as anti-cancer drugs. Resveratrol (RES) is a polyphenolic natural antitoxin that has been utilized for the treatment of several diseases, owing to its ability to scavenge free radicals, control the expression and activity of antioxidant enzymes, and have effects on inflammation, cancer, aging, diabetes, and cardioprotection. Although RES has a variety of pharmacological uses and shows promising applications in natural medicine, its unpredictable pharmacokinetics compromise its therapeutic efficacy and prevent its use in clinical settings. RES has been encapsulated into various nanocarriers, such as liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, lipidic nanocarriers, and inorganic nanoparticles, to address these issues. These nanocarriers can modulate drug release, increase bioavailability, and reach therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations. Studies on resveratrol-rich nano-formulations in various cancer types are compiled in the current article. Studies relating to enhanced drug stability, increased therapeutic potential in terms of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and reduced toxicity to cells and tissues are the main topics of this research. To keep the readers informed about the current state of resveratrol nano-formulations from an industrial perspective, some recent and significant patent literature has also been provided. Here, the prospects for nano-formulations are briefly discussed, along with machine learning and pharmacometrics methods for resolving resveratrol's pharmacokinetic concerns.

Resveratrol and Other Natural Oligomeric Stilbenoid Compounds and Their Therapeutic Applications

The use of natural compounds as an alternative to synthetic molecules has become a significant subject of interest in recent decades. Stilbenoids are a group of phenolic compounds found in many plant species and they have recently gained the focus of a multitude of studies in medicine and chemistry, resveratrol being the most representative molecule. In this review, we focused on the research that illustrates the therapeutic potential of this class of natural molecules considering various diseases with higher incidence rates. PubChem database was searched for bioactivities of natural stilbenoids, while several keywords (i.e., "stilbenoids", "stilbenoid anticancer") were used to query PubMed database for relevant studies. The diversity and the simplicity of stilbenes' chemical structures together with the numerous biological sources are key elements that can simplify both the isolation of these compounds and the drug design of novel bioactive molecules. Resveratrol and other related compounds are heterogeneously distributed in plants and are mainly found in grapes and wine. Natural stilbenes were shown to possess a wide range of biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihyperglycemic, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and antineoplastic properties. While resveratrol is widely investigated for its benefits in various disorders, further studies are warranted to properly harness the therapeutic potential of less popular stilbenoid compounds.

Sirtuins, resveratrol and the intertwining cellular pathways connecting them

Sirtuins are a family of NAD+-dependent deacylases with numerous physiological and pathological implications, which lately became an attractive therapeutic target. Sirtuin-activating compounds (STACs) could be useful in disease prevention and treatment. Despite its bioavailability issues, resveratrol exerts a myriad of beneficial effects, known as the "resveratrol paradox". Modulation of sirtuins' expression and activity may, in fact, underlie many of resveratrol revered actions; however, the cellular pathways affected by modulating the activity of each sirtuin isoform, in different physio-pathological conditions, are not fully known. The purpose of this review was to summarize recent reports concerning the effects of resveratrol on the activity of sirtuins in different experimental settings, focusing on in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies. Most reports concern SIRT1, however recent studies dive into the effects initiated via other isoforms. Numerous cellular signaling pathways were reported to be modulated by resveratrol in a sirtuin-dependent manner (increased phosphorylation of MAPKs, AKT, AMPK, RhoA, BDNF, decreased activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, NF-κB, STAT3, upregulation of SIRT1/SREBP1c pathway, reduced β-amyloid via SIRT1-NF-κB-BACE1 signaling and counteracting mitochondrial damage by deacetylating PGC-1α). Thus, resveratrol may be the ideal candidate in the search for STACs as a tool for preventing and treating inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.

Modulation of long non-coding RNAs by resveratrol as a potential therapeutic approach in cancer: A comprehensive review

LncRNAs, or long non-coding RNAs, are a subset of RNAs that play a regulatory role in a wide range of biological functions, including RNA processing, epigenetic regulation, and signal transduction. Recent research indicates that lncRNAs play a key role in the development and spread of cancer by being dysregulated in the disease. In addition, lncRNAs have been linked to the overexpression of certain proteins that are involved in tumor development and progression. Resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that it exerts through regulating different lncRNAs. By the regulation of tumor-supportive and tumor-suppressive lncRNAs, resveratrol acts as an anti-cancer agent. By downregulating the tumor-supportive lncRNAs DANCR, MALAT1, CCAT1, CRNDE, HOTAIR, PCAT1, PVT1, SNHG16, AK001796, DIO3OS, GAS5 and H19, and upregulating MEG3, PTTG3P, BISPR, PCAT29, GAS5, LOC146880, HOTAIR, PCA3, NBR2, this herbal remedy causes apoptosis and cytotoxicity. For the purpose of using polyphenols in cancer therapy, it would be helpful to have more in-depth knowledge about lncRNA modulation via resveratrol. Here, we discuss the current knowledge and future promise of resveratrol as modulators of lncRNAs in different cancers.

Role of δ-tocotrienol and resveratrol supplementation in the regulation of micro RNAs in patients with metabolic syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of δ-tocotrienol and resveratrol mixture (TRM) supplementation in comparison to placebo for 24 weeks, on the relative expression of miRNAs (miRNA-130b-5p, miRNA-221-5p, miR-15b-5p, miRNA-122-5p, and miRNA-376b-5p) in patients with Metabolic syndrome (MetS).

DESIGN

This randomized placebo-controlled trial was conducted at the tertiary care institute of the NUMS, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. A total of 82 adult MetS patients were enrolled and randomly grouped into the TRM group (n=41) and the Placebo group (n=41). Patients in the TRM group were given 400mg capsules (δ-tocotrienol 250mg; Resveratrol 150mg) and placebo received (cellulose 400mg capsule) twice daily for 24 weeks.

RESULTS

The TRM supplementation revealed a significant (p<0.001) upregulation of 3.05-fold in miRNA-130b-5p and 2.45-fold in miRNA-221-5p while miRNA-122-5p was downregulated by 2.22-fold as compared to placebo. No significant difference was observed in miRNA-15b-5p and miRNA-376b-5p. Moreover, TRM group participants with reverted MetS had significantly (p<0.05) upregulated miRNA-130b-5p, miRNA-221-5p, and downregulated miRNA-122-5p relative to non-reverted patients with MetS.

CONCLUSION

Daily TRM supplementation may improve metabolic syndrome by upregulated miR-130b-5p, which is involved in central obesity and inflammation, as well as miR-221-5p, which is involved in insulin resistance. Additionally, TRM downregulate of miRNA 122, which improved dyslipidemia.

An Overview of Bioactive Phenolic Molecules and Antioxidant Properties of Beer: Emerging Trends

Beer is one of the oldest and most common beverages worldwide. The phenolic contents and antioxidant properties of beer are crucial factors in evaluating its nutritional quality. Special beers brewed with the addition of adjuncts are gaining in consumer preference, in response to demands for healthy food and new gustatory and olfactory stimuli. Many studies recently dealt with functional beers brewed with the addition of adjuncts. This review focuses on bioactive molecules, particularly the composition of phenolic compounds, and the antioxidant activity of beer. The current knowledge concerning the effect of the addition of adjuncts in the form of fruit, vegetables, herbs, and natural foods on the polyphenol content, antioxidant properties, and phenolic profile of beer is reviewed, with an outline of the emerging trends in brewing processes. Future studies need to complete the identification and characterization of the bioactive molecules in beer, as well as studying their absorption and metabolic fate in humans.

Therapeutically important bioactive compounds of the genus Polygonum L. and their possible interventions in clinical medicine

OBJECTIVES

Increasing literature data have suggested that the genus Polygonum L. possesses pharmacologically important plant secondary metabolites. These bioactive compounds are implicated as effective agents in preclinical and clinical practice due to their pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiaging, neuroprotective or immunomodulatory properties among many others. However, elaborate pharmacological and clinical data concerning the bioavailability, tissue distribution pattern, dosage and pharmacokinetic profiles of these compounds are still scanty.

KEY FINDINGS

The major bioactive compounds implicated in the therapeutic effects of Polygonum genus include phenolic and flavonoid compounds, anthraquinones and stilbenes, such as quercetin, resveratrol, polydatin and others, and could serve as potential drug leads or as adjuvant agents. Data from in-silico network pharmacology and computational molecular docking studies are also highly helpful in identifying the possible drug target of pathogens or host cell machinery.

SUMMARY

We provide an up-to-date overview of the data from pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic profiles and preclinical (in-vitro and in-vivo) investigations and the available clinical data on some of the therapeutically important compounds of genus Polygonum L. and their medical interventions, including combating the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

PEGylated liposomes enhance the effect of cytotoxic drug: A review

Cancer is a second leading disease-causing death worldwide that will continuously grow as much as 70% in the next 20 years. Chemotherapy is still becoming a choice for cancer treatment despite its severity of side effects and low success rate due to ineffective delivery of the chemodrugs. Since it was introduced in 1960, significant progress has been achieved in the use of liposomes in drug delivery. The study aims to review relevant literatures on role of PEGylated liposome in enhancing cytotoxic activity of several agents. A systematic literature on the use of PEGylated liposomes in anticancer research via Scopus, Google scholar and PubMed databases was conducted for studies published from 2000 to 2022. A total of 15 articles were selected and reviewed from 312 articles identified covering a variety of anticancer treatments by using PEGylated liposomes. PEGylated liposome which is purposed to achieve steric equilibrium is one of enhanced strategies to deliver anticancer drugs. It has been shown that some improvement of delivery and protection form a harsh gastric environment of several anticancer drugs when they are formulated in a PEGylated liposome. One of the successful drugs that has been clinically used is Doxil®, followed by some other drugs in the pipeline Various drugs (compounds) had been used to enhance the efficacy of PEGylated liposomes for targeted cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, PEGylated liposomes enhance drug activities and have great potential to become efficient anticancer delivery to follow Doxil® in the clinical setting.

Potential Synergistic Supplementation of NAD+ Promoting Compounds as a Strategy for Increasing Healthspan

Disrupted biological function, manifesting through the hallmarks of aging, poses one of the largest threats to healthspan and risk of disease development, such as metabolic disorders, cardiovascular ailments, and neurodegeneration. In recent years, numerous geroprotectors, senolytics, and other nutraceuticals have emerged as potential disruptors of aging and may be viable interventions in the immediate state of human longevity science. In this review, we focus on the decrease in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) with age and the supplementation of NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) or nicotinamide riboside (NR), in combination with other geroprotective compounds, to restore NAD+ levels present in youth. Furthermore, these geroprotectors may enhance the efficacy of NMN supplementation while concurrently providing their own numerous health benefits. By analyzing the prevention of NAD+ degradation through the inhibition of CD38 or supporting protective downstream agents of SIRT1, we provide a potential framework of the CD38/NAD+/SIRT1 axis through which geroprotectors may enhance the efficacy of NAD+ precursor supplementation and reduce the risk of age-related diseases, thereby potentiating healthspan in humans.

Can exosomes transfer the preconditioning effects triggered by (poly)phenol compounds between cells?

Effective strategies in prolonging life- and health span are increasingly recognized as acting as mild stressors. Micronutrients and other dietary compounds such as (poly)phenols may act as moderate stressors and confer protective effects via a preconditioning phenomenon. (Poly)phenols and their metabolites may not need to reach their target cells to produce biologically significant responses, so that cells exposed to it at entry points may communicate signals to other cells. One of such "communication" mechanisms could occur through extracellular vesicles, including exosomes. In vitro loading of exosomes with (poly)phenols has been used to achieve targeted exosome homing. However, it is unknown if similar shuttling phenomena occur in vivo upon (poly)phenols consumption. Alternatively, exposure to (poly)phenols might trigger responses in exposed organs, which can subsequently signal to cells distant from exposure sites via exosomes. The currently available studies favor indirect effects of (poly)phenols, tempting to suggest a "billiard-like" or "domino-like" propagating effect mediated by quantitative and qualitative changes in exosomes triggered by (poly)phenols. In this review, we discuss the limited current data available on how (poly)phenols exposure can potentially modify exosomes activity, highlighting major questions regarding how (epi)genetic, physiological, and gut microbiota factors can modulate and be modulated by the putative exosome-(poly)phenolic compound interplay that still remains to be fully understood.

Main Determinants Affecting the Antiproliferative Activity of Stilbenes and Their Gut Microbiota Metabolites in Colon Cancer Cells: A Structure-Activity Relationship Study

trans-Resveratrol can be catabolized by the gut microbiota to dihydroresveratrol, 3,4'-dihydroxy-trans-stilbene, lunularin, and 4-hydroxydibenzyl. These metabolites can reach relevant concentrations in the colon. However, not all individuals metabolize RSV equally, as it depends on their RSV gut microbiota metabotype (i.e., lunularin producers vs. non-producers). However, how this microbial metabolism affects the cancer chemopreventive activity of stilbenes and their microbial metabolites is poorly known. We investigated the structure-antiproliferative activity relationship of dietary stilbenes, their gut microbial metabolites, and various analogs in human cancer (Caco-2 and HT-29) and non-tumorigenic (CCD18-Co) colon cells. The antiproliferative IC₅₀ values of pterostilbene, oxy-resveratrol, piceatannol, resveratrol, dihydroresveratrol, lunularin, 3,4'-dihydroxy-trans-stilbene, pinosylvin, dihydropinosylvin, 4-hydroxy-trans-stilbene, 4-hydroxydibenzyl, 3-hydroxydibenzyl, and 4-trans-stilbenemethanol were calculated. IC₅₀ values were correlated with 34 molecular characteristics by bi- and multivariate analysis. Little or no activity on CCD18-Co was observed, while Caco-2 was more sensitive than HT-29, which was explained by their different capacities to metabolize the compounds. Caco-2 IC₅₀ values ranged from 11.4 ± 10.1 μM (4-hydroxy-trans-stilbene) to 73.9 ± 13.8 μM (dihydropinosylvin). In HT-29, the values ranged from 24.4 ± 11.3 μM (4-hydroxy-trans-stilbene) to 96.7 ± 6.7 μM (4-hydroxydibenzyl). At their IC₅₀, most compounds induced apoptosis and arrested the cell cycle at the S phase, pterostilbene at G₂/M, while 4-hydroxy-trans-stilbene and 3,4'-dihydroxy-trans-stilbene arrested at both phases. Higher Connolly values (larger size) hindered the antiproliferative activity, while a lower pKa1 enhanced the activity in Caco-2, and higher LogP values (more hydrophobicity) increased the activity in HT-29. Reducing the styrene double bond in stilbenes was the most critical feature in decreasing the antiproliferative activity. These results (i) suggest that gut microbiota metabolism determines the antiproliferative effects of dietary stilbenes. Therefore, RSV consumption might exert different effects in individuals depending on their gut microbiota metabotypes associated with RSV metabolism, and (ii) could help design customized drugs with a stilbenoid and (or) dibenzyl core against colorectal cancer.

Betulinic acid: A natural promising anticancer drug, current situation, and future perspectives

Natural products serve as the single most productive source for the discovery of drugs and pharmaceutical leads. Among the various chemicals derived from microbes, plants, and animals, phytochemicals have emerged as potential candidates for the development of anticancer drugs due to their structural diversities, complexities, and pleiotropic effects. Herein, we discuss betulinic acid (BA), a ubiquitously distributed lupane structured pentacyclic triterpenoid, scrutinized as a promising natural agent for the prevention, suppression, and management of various human malignancies. Ease of availability, common occurrences, cell-specific cytotoxicity, and astonishing selectivity are the important factors that contribute to the development of BA as an anticancer agent. The current review delineates the mechanistic framework of BA-mediated cancer suppression through the modulation of multiple signaling pathways and also summarizes the key outcomes of BA in preclinical investigations.

Resveratrol alleviates salivary gland dysfunction induced by ovariectomy in rats

Resveratrol (Res), found abundant in many medicinal plants, exerts multiple biological functions in the body, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties. Xerostomia is a major symptom of salivary gland dysfunction in menopausal women, which significantly compromises the quality of life. Here, we investigated the effect of Res on estrogen deficiency-induced salivary gland dysfunction in rats. We found that Res administration could reduce body weight and water consumption, and increase salivary fluid secretion and blood flow of the submandibular gland. Furthermore, Res therapy alleviated histological lesions, increased AQP5 expression, and inhibited cell apoptosis in submandibular gland tissue. Meanwhile, the action of antioxidants was restored and the levels of inflammatory cytokines were attenuated by Res supplementation. Collectively, Res effectively improved estrogen deficiency-induced hyposalivation, which may provide a novel, safe, and practical approach to protect the salivary glands of estrogen-deficient females against xerostomia.

The Effect of Resveratrol on Blood Lipid Profile: A Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

(1) Background: The effects of resveratrol on blood lipids are controversial. Whether there is a dose-response of the lipid profile upon resveratrol supplementation is unknown. (2) Methods: This dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed to explore the effects of resveratrol supplementation on lipid profile. A systematical and comprehensive search of several databases was conducted by 30 June 2022. (3) Results: The results indicated that the intake of resveratrol could significantly decrease the total cholesterol (TC) (mean difference = −10.28; 95%CI: −13.79, −6.76, p < 0.001), triglyceride (TG) (Mean difference = −856; 95%CI: −12.37, −4.75, p < 0.001) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (mean difference = −5.69; 95%CI: −11.07, −0.31, p = 0.038) level, but did not alter the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). In the non-linear dose−response analysis, we observed a significant effect of the supplementation dosage on the level of LDL-C (p-nonlinearity = 0.002). Results from the sub-group analysis showed that the reduction of LDL-C was more significant in the trials with a duration of ≥12 weeks and in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus. (4) Conclusion: Findings from this study suggest that resveratrol may be beneficial to reduce TC, TG, and LDL-C levels in the blood. The dosage of the resveratrol intervention is an essential factor that affects the level of LDL-C.

Effect of Resveratrol Supplementation on Intestinal Oxidative Stress, Immunity and Gut Microbiota in Weaned Piglets Challenged with Deoxynivalenol

(1) Background: Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a general mycotoxin that induces severe intestinal barrier injury in humans and animals. Resveratrol (RES) efficiently exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, the information regarding RES protecting against DON-induced oxidative stress and intestinal inflammation in piglets is limited. (2) Methods: A total of 64 weaned piglets (Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire), 21-d-old, barrow) were randomly allocated to four groups (eight replicate pens per group, each pen containing two piglets) for 28 d. The piglets were fed a control diet (CON) or the CON diet supplemented with 300 mg RES/kg diet (RES group), 3.8 mg DON/kg diet (DON) or both (DON+RES) in a 2 × 2 factorial design. (3) Compared with unsupplemented DON-challenged piglets, RES supplementation in DON-challenged piglets increased ileal villus height and the abundance of ileal SOD1, GCLC and PG1-5 transcripts and Muc2 protein (p < 0.05), while decreasing the mRNA and proteins expression of ileal IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in plasma and ileum in DON-challenged piglets (p < 0.05). Moreover, the abundances of class Bacilli, order Lactobacillales, family Lactobacillaceae and species Lactobacillus gasseri were increased in DON-challenged piglets fed a RES-supplemented diet compared with those in DON-challenged piglets(p ≤ 0.05). (4) Conclusions: our results indicated that RES supplementation in DON-challenged piglets efficiently attenuated intestinal inflammation and oxidative stress and improved gut microbiota, thereby alleviating DON-induced intestinal barrier injury.

Lunularin Producers versus Non-producers: Novel Human Metabotypes Associated with the Metabolism of Resveratrol by the Gut Microbiota

We describe here for the first time the consistent observation of two metabotypes associated with resveratrol metabolism by the human gut microbiota, that is, lunularin (LUNU)-producers and LUNU non-producers. In healthy volunteers (n = 195), resveratrol was reduced to dihydroresveratrol, which only in the LUNU-producer metabotype was sequentially dehydroxylated at the 5-position to yield LUNU and the 3-position to produce 4-hydroxydibenzyl. These metabolites (also 3,4'-dihydroxy-trans-stilbene in some LUNU-producers) were detected in the urine and (or) feces of 74% of volunteers after consuming resveratrol, while 26% lacked these dehydroxylase activities. The LUNU non-producer metabotype was more prevalent in females (P < 0.05) but independent of individuals' BMI and age. A 4-styrylphenol reductase in both metabotypes converted stilbenes to their corresponding dibenzyls, while no 4-dehydroxylation in stilbenes or dibenzyls was observed. 4-Hydroxy-trans-stilbene, pinosylvin, dihydropinosylvin, 3-hydroxydibenzyl, and 3-hydroxy-trans-stilbene were not detected in vivo or in vitro. Further research on LUNU metabotypes, their associated gut microbiota, and their impact on health is worthwhile.

Resveratrol and Its Analogue 4,4′-Dihydroxy-trans-stilbene Inhibit Lewis Lung Carcinoma Growth In Vivo through Apoptosis, Autophagy and Modulation of the Tumour Microenvironment in a Murine Model

Lung cancer is the most prevalent cancer worldwide. Despite advances in surgery and immune-chemotherapy, the therapeutic outcome remains poor. In recent years, the anticancer properties of natural compounds, along with their low toxic side effects, have attracted the interest of researchers. Resveratrol (RSV) and many of its derivatives received particular attention for their beneficial bioactivity. Here we studied the activity of RSV and of its analogue 4,4′-dihydroxystilbene (DHS) in C57BL/6J mice bearing cancers resulting from Lung Lewis Carcinoma (LLC) cell implantation, considering tumour mass weight, angiogenesis, cell proliferation and death, autophagy, as well as characterization of their immune microenvironment, including infiltrating cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). C57BL/6J mice started treatment with RSV or DHS, solubilised in drinking water, one week before LLC implantation, and continued for 21 days, at the end of which they were sacrificed, and the tumour masses collected. Histology was performed according to standard procedures; angiogenesis, cell proliferation and death, autophagy, infiltrating-immune cells, macrophages and fibroblasts were assessed by immunodetection assays. Both stilbenic compounds were able to contrast the tumour growth by increasing apoptosis and autophagy in LLC tumour masses. Additionally, they contrasted the tumour-permissive microenvironment by limiting the infiltration of tumour-associated immune-cells and, more importantly, by counteracting CAF maturation. Therefore, both stilbenes could be employed to synergise with conventional oncotherapies to limit the contribution of stromal cells in tumour growth.

Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled proof-of-concept trial of resveratrol for outpatient treatment of mild coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

Resveratrol is a polyphenol that has been well studied and has demonstrated anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties that might mitigate the effects of COVID-19. Outpatients (N = 105) were recruited from central Ohio in late 2020. Participants were randomly assigned to receive placebo or resveratrol. Both groups received a single dose of Vitamin D3 which was used as an adjunct. The primary outcome measure was hospitalization within 21 days of symptom onset; secondary measures were ER visits, incidence of pneumonia, and incidence of pulmonary embolism. Five patients chose not to participate after randomization. Twenty-one-day outcome was determined of all one hundred participants (mean [SD] age 55.6 [8.8] years; 61% female). There were no clinically significant adverse events attributed to resveratrol. Outpatients in this phase 2 study treated with resveratrol had a lower incidence compared to placebo of: hospitalization (2% vs. 6%, RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.04-3.10), COVID-19 related ER visits (8% vs. 14%, RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.18-1.83), and pneumonia (8% vs. 16%, RR 0.5, 95% CI 0.16-1.55). One patient (2%) in each group developed pulmonary embolism (RR 1.00, 95% CI: 0.06-15.55). This underpowered study was limited by small sample size and low incidence of primary adverse events consequently the results are statistically similar between treatment arms. A larger trial could determine efficacy.Trial Registrations: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04400890 26/05/2020; FDA IND #150033 05/05/2020.

4-Hydroxydibenzyl: a novel metabolite from the human gut microbiota after consuming resveratrol

Resveratrol (RSV) was known to be metabolised by the gut microbiota to dihydroresveratrol, lunularin (LUNU), and (or) 3,4'-dihydroxy-trans-stilbene (DHST). We describe here for the first time that LUNU can be further dehydroxylated, but only at the 3-position, to yield 4-hydroxydibenzyl, a novel metabolite found in human urine after RSV intake in 41 out of 59 healthy participants. In contrast, DHST was not further dehydroxylated, and thus, 4-hydroxy-trans-stilbene was not detected as a gut microbial metabolite of RSV. Faecal in vitro incubations confirmed the in vivo results.

Resveratrol induces autophagy impeding BAFF-stimulated B-cell proliferation and survival by inhibiting the Akt/mTOR pathway

Therapeutically targeting B cells has received great attention in the treatment of B-cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases. The B-cell activating factor (BAFF) is critical to the survival of normal and neoplastic B cells, and excess production of BAFF contributes to autoimmune diseases. Resveratrol, a natural polyphenolic compound, has a positive effect on the treatment of autoimmune diseases. However, how resveratrol affects BAFF-stimulated B-cell proliferation and survival is poorly understood. Here, we show that resveratrol increased autophagosome formation and ATG5/LC3-II levels and decreased p62 level, promoting autophagic flux/autophagy and thereby suppressing the basal or human soluble BAFF (hsBAFF)-stimulated proliferation and survival of normal and B-lymphoid (Raji) cells. This is supported by the findings that inhibition of autophagy with 3-methyladenine (3-MA, an inhibitor of Vps34) or ATG5 shRNA attenuates resveratrol-induced autophagy and -reduced proliferation/viability in B-cells. Inhibition of mTOR with rapamycin or knockdown of mTOR potentiated resveratrol-induced autophagy and inhibition of hsBAFF-stimulated B-cell proliferation/viability, while overexpression of wild-type mTOR conferred resistance to the actions of resveratrol. Similarly, inhibition of Akt with Akt inhibitor X or ectopic expression of dominant negative Akt reinforced resveratrol-induced autophagy and inhibition of hsBAFF-stimulated B-cell proliferation/viability, whereas expression of constitutively active Akt conferred resistance to the actions of resveratrol. Taken together, these results indicate that resveratrol induces autophagy impeding BAFF-stimulated proliferation and survival via blocking the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in normal and neoplastic B cells. Our findings highlight that resveratrol has a great potential for prevention and treatment of excessive BAFF-elicited aggressive B-cell disorders and autoimmune diseases.

Alsahli M, S. M. Aljohani A, Alhumaydhi FA, Babiker AY, Khan AA, Rahmani AH. Potential Therapeutic Targets of Resveratrol, a Plant Polyphenol, and Its Role in the Therapy of Various Types of Cancer

Cancer is among the most prominent causes of mortality worldwide. Different cancer therapy modes employed, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, have been reported to be significant in cancer management, but the side effects associated with these treatment strategies are still a health problem. Therefore, alternative anticancer drugs based on medicinal plants or their active compounds have been generating attention because of their less serious side effects. Medicinal plants are an excellent source of phytochemicals that have been recognized to have health-prompting effects through modulating cell signaling pathways. Resveratrol is a well-known polyphenolic molecule with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and health-prompting effects among which its anticancer role has been best defined. Additionally, this polyphenol has confirmed its role in cancer management because it activates tumor suppressor genes, suppresses cell proliferation, induces apoptosis, inhibits angiogenesis, and modulates several other cell signaling molecules. The anticancer potential of resveratrol is recognized in numerous in vivo and in vitro studies. Previous experimental data suggested that resveratrol may be valuable in cancer management or improve the efficacy of drugs when given with anticancer drugs. This review emphasizes the potential role of resveratrol as an anticancer drug by modulating numerous cells signaling pathways in different types of cancer.

SIRT1 Is Involved in the Neuroprotection of Pterostilbene Against Amyloid β 25-35-Induced Cognitive Deficits in Mice

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by amyloid-β (Aβ) deposits and neurofibrillary tangles. Pterostilbene (PTE), a bioactive component mainly in blueberries, is found to have neuroprotective properties. However, the specific underlying mechanisms of PTE in protecting AD remain unclear. Herein, we explored its effects on Aβ25-35-induced neuronal damage in vivo and in vitro and further compared the roles with its structural analog resveratrol (RES) in improving learning-memory deficits. We found that intragastric administration of PTE (40 mg/kg) displayed more effective neuroprotection on Aβ25-35-induced cognitive dysfunction assessed using the novel object test, Y-maze test, and Morris water maze test. Then, we found that PTE improved neuronal plasticity and alleviated neuronal loss both in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, PTE upregulated the expression of sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and inhibited mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in the Aβ25-35-treated group. However, SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 reversed the neuroprotection and induced a drop in mitochondrial membrane potential in PTE-treated primary cortical neurons. Our data suggest that PTE's enhancing learning-memory ability and improving neuroplasticity might be related to inhibiting mitochondria-dependent apoptosis via the antioxidant effect regulated by SIRT1/Nrf2 in AD.

Long-term effects of melatonin and resveratrol on aging rats: A multi-biomarker approach

Aging-related impaired body structure and functions may be, at least partially, caused by elevated oxidative stress. Melatonin (MEL) and resveratrol (RSV) may act as antioxidant and anti-aging compounds, but these actions in experimental animals and humans are controversial. Herein, a rat model of aging was used to study the long-term sex-related effects of MEL and RSV treatment on body mass and blood/plasma parameters of DNA damage, oxidative status (glutathione and malondialdehyde levels), and concentrations of sex hormones. Starting from the age of 3mo, for the next 9mo or 21mo male and female Wistar rats (n = 4-7 per group) were given water to drink (controls) or 0.1 % ethanol in water (vehicle), or MEL or RSV (each 10 mg/L vehicle). DNA damage in whole blood cells was tested by comet assay, whereas in plasma, glutathione, malondialdehyde, and sex hormones were determined by established methods. Using statistical analysis of data by ANOVA/Scheffe post hoc, we observed a similar sex- and aging-dependent rise of body mass in both sexes and drop of plasma testosterone in control and vehicle-treated male rats, whose pattern remained unaffected by MEL and RSV treatment. Compared with controls, all other parameters remained largely unchanged in aging and differently treated male and female rats. We concluded that the sex- and aging-related pattern of growth and various blood parameters in rats were not affected by the long-term treatment with MEL and RSV at the estimated daily doses (300-400 μg/kg b.m.) that exceed usual moderate consumption in humans.